Product reviews for Fun Learning Activities for Modern Foreign Languages

Fun Learning Activities for Modern Foreign Languages states that it is full of tried and tested techniques and fun learning activities. The author is himself an MFL teacher and uses his own experience to explain the suggested activities. The fact that these ideas come straight from the -˜chalk face' is reassuring to those of us who may not have time to test things out without knowing whether they are successful or not. It is a comprehensive reference guide filled with activities that are ready to use in the classroom. Chapters include one for magic and mini whiteboards, one referred to in the book as VFLAs (Vocab Fun Learning Activities) and one for FLAs (Fun Learning Activities). The book also includes free downloads with examples to support the integration of the activities into lessons.

The VFL concept is all about introducing language content first, followed by engaging ways for students to practice the language, making vocabulary and short phrases stick. The FLAs are linked to sentence structure and ways to practise paragraph building. Most of the FLAs involve group work and independent language practice. For both types of activity, there is a wide range of detailed examples on how they can be used and how they will benefit the students. Each activity has a summary, information about preparation and resources, variations, and teacher notes with tips on how best to make the activity successful in lessons.

The activities are described in a clear way; many with little preparation needed. Towards the end of the book there are more detailed examples of using the activities and spaced practice. These examples are clear and concise and show exactly the best way to use the activities.

The book is an excellent reference guide for new and more experienced teachers alike, in order to maintain enthusiasm and boost confidence in the MFL classroom.