Ducky War ESL Game

I love using review games to start off classes on an energetic note, and this * hands down * is my favorite ESL review game. And it involves an adorable rubber duck, so what else could you ask for?

This game is fast, efficient, and incredibly simple to set up. All you need is a rubber duck. Here’s how to play:

Step 1: Divide the class into two teams

Step 2: Call for volunteers or choose one person from each team to come to the front of the room

Step 3: Place the rubber duck in a central location (a podium, desk, or chair) and have students stand on either side of the duck.

Step 4: Ask the review question

Step 5: Whoever grabs the duck first will have the chance to answer the question. 

Step 6: If the student gets the question right, his team gets a point. If he gets it wrong, his opponent has the chance to answer. 

Step 7: Call new students up and repeat. 

Variations:

Start Time

            Depending on the class, I vary when students are allowed to answer the question. For some classes, they have to wait until I have finished saying the questions. Once I say, “Go!” they can grab the duck. For other classes, I let them grab the duck any time after I’ve opened my mouth. 

Number of Questions

            You could just ask each set of two students one question, then bring up two other students. But actually, I’ve found the game works a little more smoothly when include two questions per round. Calling students up takes a little time—you have to chose the students/ call for volunteers, as well as wait for them to leave their seats and come to the front. Also, asking a second question helps them get in the groove of what they should be doing, and makes that second round that much more competitive. 

Try this game out, whether you have 5 minutes for review or 15! My students always get so excited when they see me pull that little rubber duck out of my bag. They love it, I love it, and I’m sure you will too.