Facilitating ESL Learner’s Language Skills Using Interaction Based Activities

Abstract

English language learners at all proficiency levels, need to speak and understand spoken English for a variety of reasons. They engage in interactive, communicative activities in all aspects of the class—from ice-breaking activities, goal-setting to lifeskills, needs assessment, grammar, phonics, and spelling. The most important outcomes of interaction include motivation, feedback, and the ability to adapt content to a learner’s needs. In addition, research on second language acquisition proposes that effective learning takes place when students are engaged in relevant tasks within a dynamic learning environment rather than in conventional teacher-led classes (Moss & Ross-Feldman, 2003). Learning is greatly improved when learning environments support learners to experience real world complexity, with support. People don’t learn well by being fed with the information. They learn best by engaging in meaningful activity. The current article brings forth various activities that encourage student’s interaction which in turn facilitates their language skills. The best activities are those that mirror the way the content is used in the real world.