Don't let our spaceship crash!
Video games have a way of capturing the interest of children. From the detailed graphics, to the never ending challenges, it seems students could get lost in the cyber-world for days. Spaceteam ESL combines online gaming and learning English into one engaging experience.
Spaceteam ESL is a game played in groups, or teams. In order for your team to "survive" you must communicate by speaking and listening to each other. The player must read the direction on there screen such as, "Push Yellow," and their teammate must respond by pushing the button that reads "yellow." At the same time, that player needs to read the command on their screen for their teammates.
An example of a two-player game (source).
Apparently, (I am behind the times) Spaceteam is a popular, already established game. The creators of the ESL version used the same excitement, (and choas) but paired it with beginner English words. The game is leveled based on the most frequently used English words.
In a study, it was found that students had less anxiety while speaking English during the game, than at other times. Combined with quality instruction, Spaceteam ESL can increase oral fluency in students.
Here is extra information for teachers. I looked everywhere online for a video of ESL students playing the game, but was not able to find any. I found quite a few of the original game, which I have to admit, looks like a lot of fun. I would love to see this used in a classroom setting.
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