Changing language starts a new practice.
Free practice · about 12 minutes
Explain it, then swap.
One idea. Two turns. A listener who can tell you what came through.
Suggested activity. Adapt the time and language to your learners.
One step at a time
5 steps · go at your own pace
One step at a time
No recording or saved progress. Start again whenever you like.
2 min
Choose an idea together
The teacher names a familiar, age-appropriate topic: a game rule, a classroom routine or an idea from today’s lesson. Model a short explanation. Partners choose something they can explain without sharing private experiences.
2 min
Plan one point and one example
Each partner picks one point they want the other person to understand. Think of an everyday example. Use a few notes or practice quietly first. The teacher can simplify the prompt or offer another way to participate.
3 min
Speak, listen, then swap
Partner A explains for about 30 seconds. Partner B names one detail they understood and asks one useful question. Swap roles so both partners get a speaking and listening turn. Leave a little thinking time before each answer.
3 min
Try one clearer version
Each partner chooses one small change from the question they heard: state the main point sooner, use a clearer example or pause before an important detail. Give the explanation again. The listener says what became easier to follow.
2 min
Choose a next step
Each partner names one speaking choice they want to keep. If they wish, pairs can share that choice with the group. The teacher closes with a concrete observation about listening or explanation, without ranking speakers.
Prompts to remember
Point. Example. Check.
“The main idea is…”“For example…”“Which part would you like me to explain again?”
Prompts are starting points. The speaker can use their own words.
For the listener
Listen to the whole attempt before responding. Name a detail you heard, then ask a question about the idea. Describe the explanation rather than judging the person. In a pair, the listener also asks the question.
Try: “I understood the first game rule. Could you show me what happens on the next turn?”
Keep the next change small. Speaking again should feel achievable.
One thing I will try next time
Say it aloud or write a few words here.