Learning a language is no small task, but the secret to turning a big challenge, like learning English, into a fun hobby is by playing games. Games are one of the fastest and most effective ways to practice English, helping you learn new vocabulary words along the way. There are all different types of games designed to encourage language learning, and whether you prefer traditional board games, digital games and smartphone apps, or interactive learning platforms, you’ll find that the more you play games in English, the stronger your language skills will be.
Traditional Board Games
For nearly a century board games that incorporate word building into gameplay have been some of the most beloved, especially for people learning English. Popular traditional board games that help build vocabulary include:
- Scrabble – A board game for two to four players, Scrabble is played with a gameboard that is divided into 15 by 15 squares. Players build words using letter tiles in a crossword-style format, and each letter is assigned a point value. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
- Taboo – For large groups or parties, Taboo is a fun word game that helps strengthen vocabulary and improve language skills. Gameplay consists of a player picking a card with a word on it, then giving clues to other players to help them guess the word on the card.
- Boggle – Designed to be played solo or with friends, Boggle is a word game in which players have to find as many words as possible within a 4 x 4 grid of lettered dice. Each round has a time limit, and words must contain at least three letters. The length of each word determines how many points a player earns, and the player with the most points at the end of a round wins.
Digital Games and Apps
Digital word games and smartphone apps are a great way to squeeze in vocabulary practice on-the-go. You can play any time you want from anywhere with an internet connection. Online word games allow you to play by yourself or with family and friends. So of the most popular mobile word games include:
- Last Letter First – This free, simple vocabulary game offers endless possibilities for gameplay. One player enters a word, and then the next player enters a word that must start with the last letter of the previous player’s word. Play Last Letter First by yourself or with friends and family, for points or just for fun.
- Duolingo – This language learning app is a great way to learn new languages. Duolingo breaks languages down into small, attainable steps and provides guided daily vocabulary practice.
- Words With Friends – This free, online multiplayer word game involves players taking turns adding words to a crossword-style board. Each letter played is assigned a point value, and the player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Interactive Language Learning Platforms
If you prefer more traditional study tools but want to add an interactive twist, language learning platforms are excellent tools to incorporate into your language learning journey. Some of the most reputable interactive language learning platforms include:
- Quizlet – A study tool that uses digital flashcards, Quizlet uses a quiz-style format to help users memorize information, like vocabulary words and definitions. Users can generate their own study sets, or they can choose from a database of countless study sets created by educators and other Quizlet users.
- FluentU – Watching videos is a great way to learn a language, and FluentU uses videos that emulate real-world situations with subtitles to help students feel fully immersed in the language they are learning. Video formats include interviews, commercials, and music videos, and quizzes give users the chance to put what they’ve learned to the test.
FAQ
What are fun ways to learn English?
There are a number of fun ways to learn English that don’t require using a textbook and taking notes. You can learn English by watching English language films and television shows, reading books, playing traditional vocabulary-building board games, using interactive language learning platforms, and by playing word games online, like Last Letter First.
How can you teach English using games?
Playing learning games is an effective and fun way to teach yourself English. Word games like Last Letter First help improve spelling, build vocabulary, and give you the chance to learn new word forms. Traditional memorization techniques like flashcards, taking notes, or using textbooks are often helpful, but playing word games is more exciting and engaging, which means you are more likely to practice consistently. Remember, consistency is the key to learning the English language.
Are word games good for learning English?
Yes! Playing word games like Last Letter First is one of the best ways to learn English. Word games help you stay motivated and engaged as you expand your knowledge of English words and phrases. The game keeps track of unique words you play so you can track your progress over time. Last Letter First is the best word game for learning English because you can play it from anywhere with an internet connection, by yourself or with friends and family, and, best of all, it is free and easy to play for people of all ages.
In Summary
Playing games is one of the most fun and effective ways to learn English and expand your vocabulary. The key to learning any new language is practicing everyday, and practicing becomes easier when it doesn’t feel like work. Last Letter First is free, easy to play, and is the best way to track your progress as you learn new words. Challenge your family and friends or play independently from anywhere with an internet connection.
Download Last Letter First today from the app stores, or play it directly in your web browser.
