This activity is a variation of American Go Fish. Students will be in groups and given a baggie filled with 40 Question Cards (QC’s). The students will mix the cards and then distribute 5 cards to each player, leaving the remaining cards in a deck in the center. If a student has matching cards then they should pair them (1 Pair = 1Point) and put them aside.
After this, they must replenish their hands to equal cards. Students should always have 5 cards throughout the game until the deck is gone. Using English Janken winner will start the first round. First, they will ask the English question on the card to another player. If they have the card they will answer the question and then hand the card over to the player. If they struggle to answer the question there is a hint box at the bottom of the card to help with phrasing an answer. If they don't have the card they say in English “ No I don't have it” and it's the next player's turn. Here they would say “ Next Please” to indicate it the next persons turn.
This will continue until all the cards have been matched and a winner is decided. Winners are given a sticker to show their participation. Students have a chance to play multiple rounds if they finish early. During this activity no Japanese is allowed outside of JTE/ALT explanation and asking questions for clarification.
Suggestions and Advice:
Speak with a clear voice and make sure the students understand that asking and answering questions must be done in full sentences. The hint at the bottom of the card allows them to form a full sentence. During this activity they can not speak Japanese. I always say to my students “SPEAK ONLY ENGLISH” loud and clear. As the kids are playing the games the JTE/ALT should go around and make sure that the students understood the rules. Assist them where it is needed. By consistently reminding them about speaking English they are made to use what vocabulary they have learned. This also shows students' English ability.