Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

Sở GD- ĐT Đồng Nai

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Using Role-plays in
Teaching Speaking

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

2008 – 2009

I. Reason for choosing the topic:

Learning a language is a complex and long process as anyone who has tried will agree. One
of the most difficult and frustrating things is making the transition from the classroom to the
'real' world. In the classroom, everyone knows you are a student and mistakes are allowed,
and the environment is contained and safe. Speaking another language outside the classroom
is completely different and often students are lost at sea as soon as they step outside the door.
Lists of memorized vocabulary are suddenly useless when ordering in a restaurant.
The problem becomes more complicated when it comes to Vietnam setting. English teachers
in Vietnam have just adopted communicative approach for just a few years since the using of
the new textbooks. However, they have not paid enough attention to speaking skill. The
speaking tasks are simple, and more importantly, impractical.
In this writing, I would like to recommend a more practical way of teaching speaking in high
school classrooms; that is using role-plays and simulations. Role-plays, or simulations are
one of the ways ESL instructors can ease students' transition into using English in real world
situations. A simulation is where students act out a real-life situation, for example checking
into at a hotel, but do not act out a different personality. Role-plays are where students take
on different personalities. In a role-play, for example, one student may be asked to take on
the role of "an angry neighbor" which is out of character for the student.
The purpose of role playing is to give the students an opportunity to work with others in
determining how an individual or group might behave in response to a particular situation.
Role playing is often used primarily to promote classroom discussion. The use of role
playing as a cooperative learning model also includes class discussion as a vital step, but in
this approach the entire class is involved in preparing and presenting role plays through
group activity.
II. Some principles of using and managing role-plays:
- The more engaging the better. The value of role-plays come from students immersing
themselves in the material.
- Choose a 'hot' topic and stage a debate. Assign students positions on the topic (for/against).
This will get students out of their personality and into the role where they do not have the
same inhibitions.
- Preparation is very important to success. Give students 'personality cards' which sketch out
their personal characteristics or scenario. Divide students into groups and give them time to
sketch out various scenarios, and go over extra or special vocabulary, ask them to discuss
how they will act, think about the character and plan what they will say. For example, what
are possible responses/replies for the angry neighbor?
- The teacher, as facilitator of the role-play must support students in their role, i.e. they 'are'
in the backyard arguing over the fence. Don't do anything to interrupt the pretend

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
environment. Leave grammar correction to the end. Correcting students in the middle of an
argument interrupts the pretend environment. Make notes and do a debriefing after.
- Exaggeration is good! Encourage students to exaggerate their actions, opinions and
movements. Exaggeration helps students immerse themselves in the role.
- Stage a rehearsal first. Have students practice their role in small groups with coaching from
the other students.
- While the role-play or debate is in progress, have other students suggest vocabulary first,
and act as backup if they do not know.
Role-plays are unpredictable which makes them both a valuable learning tool and at the
same
time difficult to manage. Sketch out the various routes the role-play can take from the initial
scenario. This will give you some idea what to expect and avoid any surprises.
Role-plays can range from 30 minutes to one hour.
III. Steps in carrying out role-plays:
1. Outside the classroom:
_ Choosing the topic, based on the topic of the lesson or the main grammar point of that
lesson.
_ Preparing materials, especially role-play cards (Teachers can make up the cards
themselves, or search for them on the Internet)
2. Inside the classroom:
_ Providing students with enough language to be used in their role-plays.
_ Setting up the scene for role-plays.
IV. Sample lesson plans:
Unit 1: Friendship (English 11)
Version 1
Finding a Perfect Roommate/Flatmate Role-play
1. Materials:
 Ranking Roommates: Vocabulary Warm-up
 Room Ads: Listening Reading Comprehension Warm-up
 Rooms for Rent Role Cards
 Friends Looking for Rooms Role Cards
 Students with Rooms for Rent Activity Sheet
 Students with Friends Needing Rooms Activity Sheet
2. Purpose and Audience:
The purpose of these materials is to get the students to practice talking about the qualities of
good and bad roommates.
3. Target Language:
Describing people and their habits.
4. Warm up:
a) Group Discussion
 Where do you live?
 Do you live in a dormitory or with your family?
 Who do you live with?
 Are you happy where you live? Why or why not?
b) Pros and Cons Brainstorm
 What do you think about shared accommodation?
 What are the pros and cons of shared accommodation?
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
· 2 groups divided into Pros and Cons
· then pair up Pro and Con to discuss
c) Which would you choose?
In groups of 3, put Shared Accommodation Ads in pile face down. Students turn 1 up
and explain to the group.
This accommodation is in (area).
It’s a (flat/house/townhouse)
There are (number) people living there.
It costs $____ a week.
(other information)
Would you like to live there? Why or why not? – Discuss
After going through all six ads, choose the best one for you and explain why.
The Perfect Flatmate
What kind of person is good to live with? Why?
Ranking Exercise:
In groups, students circle the ideal qualities of roommates using the Ranking Exercise
Vocabulary Sheet and then rank them in order of importance.
5. Role-play
Set-up:
The class is divided into two groups:
Group 1: These students have a room for rent at their house because a roommate has just
moved out. They will need a Room for Rent Role Card and a Room for Rent Activity Sheet.
Group 2: These students have a friend who is looking for a place to live. They will need a
Friends Looking for a Place to Live Role Card and a Students with Friends Needing a Room
Activity Sheet.
The students should be given some time to read their role cards, ask questions about
vocabulary and then write down the concerns (from the role cards) into the table headings
(on the activity sheets).
Divide the class chairs into two lines facing each other (or if you like, have an inner circle
and outer circle). One line is for students with rooms to rent (Group 1)and the other line is
for students who have friends who need a place to live (Group 2).
Group 1 students approach group 2 students and ask them if the group 2 students know
anybody who needs a place to live. Group 2 students tell them they have a friend who is
looking for a place. Group 2 will then ask questions to make sure that their friend will be
happy in the shared accommodation. Group 1 students then ask questions about the friend to
make sure that the friend is compatible.
Wrap up
Students discuss which friends were compatible with which houses.

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
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When trying to find a compatible roommate,

what qualities are the most important for
you? Circle the qualities of your ideal
roommate. Finally, in groups, rank them
below. (1 being the most important and 12
being least important).

messy (is a slob)

good cook can’t cook

outgoing shy

easygoing argumentative/high strung

boring humorous, interesting

smoker non-smoker

heavy drinker social drinker non-drinker

friendly grumpy/mean

quiet noisy

considerate selfish

has a car doesn’t have a car

broke has enough money

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

How are you as a roommate? How many of the above ideal qualities do you have?

In your group, find out who is the most compatible roommate for you:

Students With Friends Who Need Housing

Your friend Susan is looking for a place to Your friend Bill is looking for a place to live.
live.
Facts about Bill
Facts about Susan He is easygoing and gets along well with
She is an outgoing person who likes to other people. He is a bit lazy and somewhat
party. And so she can be quite noisy, messy.
especially on the weekends. She is a heavy He plays in a band so he often practices the
drinker but she doesn’t smoke. She has a drums at home. He doesn’t smoke. He is a
dog. She has a job so she has lots of money. social drinker. He’s a little broke so he wants
to find a place with cheap rent.
Concerns (Questions to Ask)
(1) Are pets ok? (She has a dog) Concerns (Questions to Ask)
(2) Are the other roommates friendly (1) Will it be Ok if he practices the drums
outgoing people? (Her last roommate from time to time? (He plays in a
was a bore so she moved out). band).
(3) Does anybody smoke? (She’s (2) Are there any cats or dogs at the
allergic to cigarette smoke). apartment? (He’s allergic to animal
(4) How much is the rent? hair)
(5) How far is the apartment from the (3) How much is the rent?
school? (4) How far is the apartment from the
school?
(5) Are the other roommates easy to get
along with?

Your friend Brenda is looking for a place to Your friend John is looking for a place to
live. live.

Facts about Brenda Facts about John

She is a med student so she studies very He is very shy, so he doesn’t have many
hard. She has a scholarship so she has no friends or go out a lot. He is clean. He is
problems with money. She doesn’t drink. quiet. He smokes, but he rarely drinks. He
She doesn’t smoke. She has a cat. She is has a job so he has lots of money.
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
very tidy.
Concerns (Questions to Ask)
Concerns (Questions to Ask) (1) Is smoking allowed in the house?
(1) Is it a quiet house? She’s a med (2) How much is the rent?
student so she needs to study hard. (3) Are there any cats or dogs at the
(2) How much is the rent? apartment? (He’s allergic to animal
(3) Does anybody smoke? (She’s hair)
allergic to cigarette smoke). (4) Is the apartment clean? (He is a bit of
(4) How far is the apartment from the a neat freak).
school? (5) How far is the apartment from the
(5) Are pets ok? (She has a cat) school?

Students With Friends Who Need Housing

Your friend Jane is looking for a place to Your friend Mike is looking for a place to
live. live.

Facts about Jane Facts about Mike

Jane is hardworking student who likes to ‘let Mike is a very shy guy working on his
loose’ on the weekends. She’s very clean. doctorate. His family is very wealthy. He is
She doesn’t smoke and only drinks a little on quiet and doesn’t smoke or drink. He’s a bit
weekends. Her parents are rich so she has no of a slob though.
money problems.
Concerns (Questions to Ask)
Concerns (Questions to Ask) (1) How much is the rent?
(1) How much is the rent? (2) How far is the apartment from the
(2) How far is the apartment from the school?
school? (3) Does anybody smoke? (He’s allergic
(3) Are there any cats or dogs at the to cigarette smoke).
apartment? (She’s allergic to animal (4) Are there any cats or dogs at the
hair) apartment? (He’s allergic to animal
(4) Is the apartment clean? (She’s a bit of hair)
a neat freak). (5) Is the place quiet? (He is working on
(5) Is the place quiet during the week? his PhD so he needs a quiet place to
live an study)

Your friend Christy is looking for a place to Your friend Jeremy is looking for a place to
live. live.
Facts about Christy Facts about Jeremy
Christy is an outgoing person who smokes a Jeremy is a professional musician who is
lot and is a heavy drinker, but she is very doing his masters degree at the university.
tidy. She is a little broke since she just got He is easygoing but a little messy. He has a
fired from her job. scholarship so money is not a problem for
Concerns (Questions to Ask) him.
(1) How much is the rent? Concerns (Questions to Ask)
(2) How far is the apartment from the (1) How much is the rent?
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
school? (2) How far is the apartment from the
(3) Are there any cats or dogs at the school?
apartment? (She’s allergic to animal (3) Does anybody smoke? (He’s allergic
hair) to cigarette smoke).
(4) Is smoking OK? (She is a smoker). (4) Is it OK if he practices his trumpet?
(5) Are the other roommates friendly (He’s a musician).
outgoing people? (Her last roommate (5) Are the other roommates easygoing?
was so boring she couldn’t stand it). (He would prefer to live with some
sociable, easygoing people)

Students Looking for Someone to Share Housing

One of your roommates has recently moved One of your roommates has recently moved
out so you need to find a new roommate. out so you need to find a new roommate.

Facts about the current roommates: Facts about the current roommates:
The people living in the house are
The people living at the house now are easygoing. They like to make a lot of noise
sociable, outgoing students at the in the evening either playing guitars or
university. They have parties or go out on listening to music. There are no pets in the
the town at least once a week. There are no house. Everybody in the house smokes.
smokers at the house and no pets. The rent They rarely drink. The rent is about $200.00
is $300 per month. The house is about 10 and the house is about 20 minutes from the
minutes from the university by foot. university by subway.
Concerns about potential roommate: Concerns about potential roommate:
(1) Is _________ sociable? (They like to (1) Does _________ have a pet? (The
have fun now and then). landlord doesn’t allow cats or dogs at
(2) Does _________ smoke? (One of the the apartment).
current roommates is allergic to (2) Is _________ easy to get along with?
smoke). (The last roommate caused many
(3) Is _________ clean? (The last fights).
roommate was a slob). (3) Is _________ a heavy drinker? (The
(4) Can _________ afford to pay rent? last roommate drank a lot and caused
(The last roommate still owes them problems).
about 2 months rent). (4) Does _________ mind noise? (The
other roommates tend to make a lot of
noise in the evenings)

One of your roommates has recently moved One of your roommates has recently moved
out so you need to find a new roommate. out so you need to find a new roommate.
Facts about the current roommates: Facts about the current roommates:
They are quiet, clean hardworking students. They are mostly studious, but like to have
Most of them are on scholarship so they fun from time to time. There are no pets in
don’t like to party much. The rent is about the house, but several roommates smoke.
$450. The apartment is about 15 minutes The place is clean. The rent is $300 per
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
from the university by bus. month. The house is about 10 minutes from
Concerns about potential roommate: the university by bus.
(1) Is _________ quiet? (The last Concerns about potential roommate:
roommate was way to noisy so it was (1) Does _________ have a pet? (One of
hard to study). the current roommates is allergic to
(2) Does _________ smoke? (One of the cat hair).
current roommates is allergic to (2) Is _________ quiet? (The other
smoke). roommates are serious students).
(3) Is _________clean? (The last (3) Is _________ clean? (The last
roommate was a slob). roommate was a slob).
(4) Does _________ have money (4) Does _________ mind smoking?
problems? (The rent is quite (Several of the roommates smoke).
expensive).
Students Looking for Someone to Share Housing

One of your roommates has recently moved One of your roommates has recently moved
out so you need to find a new roommate. out so you need to find a new roommate.
Facts about the current roommates: Facts about the current roommates:
The people living at the house now are This is a quiet house of mostly law and
sociable, outgoing students at the university. engineering students. There are no pets and
They like to do a lot things together such as no smokers. The roommates are mostly shy,
go to the movies or cafes together. There are quiet guys without much of a social life.
no smokers at the house and no pets. The The rent is $300.00 per month and the house
rent is about $400.00. The house is about 5 is about 15 minutes from the university on
minutes from the university on foot. foot.
Concerns about potential roommate: Concerns about potential roommate:
(1) Does _________ drink a lot? (The last (1) Does _________ have a pet? (The
roommate was a drunk and caused a landlord doesn’t allow cats or dogs at
lot of problems). the apartment).
(2) Does _________ have a pet? (The (2) Is _________ quiet? (The other
landlord doesn’t allow cats or dogs at roommates are serious students).
the apartment). (3) Does _________ smoke? (One of the
(3) Is _________ clean? (The last current roommates is allergic to
roommate was a slob). smoke).
(4) Does _________have enough money (4) Does _________ have enough money
to pay rent? (The rent is quite to pay rent? (The last roommate left
expensive). without paying the rent).

One of your roommates has recently moved One of your roommates has recently moved
out so you need to find a new roommate. out so you need to find a new roommate.
Facts about the current roommates: Facts about the current roommates:
The people living at the house now are The people living in the house are
sociable, outgoing students at the university. easygoing. They like to sit around and play
They like to do a lot of things together such guitars and chat in the evening. They have
as going dancing or going to the movies. two cats. Nobody in the house smokes.
Everybody in the house smokes. There are They drink occasionally. The rent is about
no pets. The rent is about $390. The $200.00 and the house is about 20 minutes
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
apartment is about 20 minutes from the from the university by subway.
school by subway. Concerns about potential roommate:
Concerns about potential roommate: (1) Does _________ like animals? (Two
(1) Does _________ have a pet? (The of the roommates have cats).
landlord doesn’t allow cats or dogs at (2) Does _________ smoke? (One of the
the apartment). current roommates is allergic to
(2) Is _________ sociable? (They like to smoke).
have fun now and then). (3) Is _________ easy to get along with?
(3) Does _________have enough money (The last roommate kept arguing with
to pay rent? (The rent is quite the other roommates).
expensive). (4) Is _________ a heavy drinker? (The
(4) Is _________ tidy? (The last last roommate got drunk every week
roommate was a slob). and started fights).

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Dialogue: Finding a Roommate
A: Hi, Steve.
B: Hey, Jack. What’s up? Your roommate has just moved out and now you need to
A: Do you know anyone who’s looking find a new roommate. Ask other students in the class if they
for a place to live? One of our know anybody who needs a place to live. And then make
roommates is moving out. sure that potential roommates are compatible. Write your
B: As a matter of fact, I do. My friend concerns in the table below:
Sally needs a place. How much is the Potential Concern 1 Concern 2 Concern3 Concern4
rent? Roommate ________ __________ ___________ _____________
(Steve asks questions about ________ __________ ___________ _____________
the room and roommates).
.
.
.
B: I’ll let her know and give her your
number.
A: Thanks Steve. Oh wait! Is there
anything I should know about Sally?
B: Like what?
A: Well, is she a heavy drinker? Our last
roommate got drunk all the time and
caused a lot of problems.
(Jack asks questions about the
potential roommate Sally)
.
.
.
A: That’s all I need to know. I’ll talk it
over with my roommates. Thanks again
Steve. See you later.
B: See you Jack.

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Dialogue: Finding a Roommate
A: Hi, Steve.
B: Hey, Jack. What’s up?
A: Do you know anyone who’s You have a friend who is looking for a place to live. Find
looking for a place to live? One of our out about potential rooms for rent from other friends. Make
roommates is moving out. sure that your friend is compatible with the other
B: As a matter of fact, I do. My friend roommates. Write down your concerns in the table below
Sally needs a place. How much is the and then ask questions about them.
rent? Potential Concern 1 Concern 2 Concern 3 Concern 4
(Steve asks questions about Roommate ________ ___________ ___________ ___________
the room and roommates). ________ ___________ ___________ ___________
.
.
.
B: I’ll let her know and give her your
number.
A: Thanks Steve. Oh wait! Is there
anything I should know about Sally?
B: Like what?
A: Well, is she a heavy drinker? Our
last roommate got drunk all the time
and caused a lot of problems.
(Jack asks questions about the
potential roommate Sally)
.
.
A: That’s all I need to know. I’ll talk it
over with my roommates. Thanks
again Steve. See you later.

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B: See you Jack.

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Unit 1: Friendship (English 11)
Version 2
Matchmaking Roleplay
Duration: 15–20 min
Aim: Oral fluency practice
Requirements: Lots of space
Summary: Each student is given a "child", and tries to pair him/her up
with a suitable partner.
Introduction
The students are initially organised into groups, with each group member
receiving a different information card describing their son or daughter. But the
actual speaking is done on a one-to-one basis, with the students mingling in
their group and talking to the other "parents".
Groups contain 8 to 10 students, so this mingling requires a classroom with lots
of space, and preferably no desks to obstruct movement.
Preparation
Print enough copies of ten_singles.doc so that each student can receive one
information card.
Optionally, use a different colour of paper for each set of information cards.
Procedure
If the information cards are all white, then the teachers need to organise the
students into groups of 8 or 10 first (ideally an even number, otherwise one poor
child will miss out on a husband or wife). If we have a different colour for each
set of information cards, then we can simply hand out the cards as you wish,
and get the students to form groups according to the colours after they have read
the card.
Explain that we are going to give each student a son or daughter! Tell them to
read the card and imagine what the person is like: do you think they are
romantic? Friendly? Humourous? Hard-working?
Give out the cards and allow some time for reading. (If there are some groups of
eight, simply give them four male and four female information cards).
Explain that the students can add extra details that aren't on the card. For
example, does your child have a car or a motorbike? Is he/she clever? To
encourage this, give the students an extra minute to think of one detail to add.
Now explain that each person should talk to the "parents" of potential
husbands/wives. They should only speak to one person at a time. Once they
have heard about all the potential partners, students should agree on how to
match them up. Check:
 If you have a daughter, who do you talk to? (parents of sons)
 Do you talk in a group, or in pairs? (pairs)
 If you have a daughter, then do you have to speak with
everyone in your group who has a son? (yes)
 When you have spoken to everyone, what do you do? (agree
on the couples)
If some groups finish early, you can tell them to think of reasons why the
couples they have matched up are suitable.
Have a feedback session at the end, perhaps writing the results on the board.
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

Your son, Tony, is a young doctor Your daughter, Sue, works at a

who often works long hours at the restaurant. She enjoys her job
hospital. He is a quiet, thoughtful because she likes talking to people.
person. But she also wants to get married and
have a child.
Your son, Paul, enjoys many sports Your daughter, Julie, owns a
such as football, basketball, and bookshop and is often very busy.
mountain climbing. He works for a Although she is young, the workers
small company. He would like a respect her, and she is very generous
wife, but not children. to them.
Your son, David, has an important Your daughter, Jenny, is studying
job at the bank. Your family is quite chemical engineering at a top
rich, so David is used to good clothes university. She loves going to
and expensive holidays. restaurants, watching movies, and
travelling.
Your son, Martin, has a job as a Your daughter, Ingrid, is a shy girl
gardener but he thinks his work is who works at a nearby factory.
boring. In his spare time he paints, She’s an excellent piano player, and
and enjoys reading poetry. usually plays for at least an hour
every day.
Your son, Edward, is studying Your daughter, Emma, is a pretty
business at college. He talks a lot, girl who dreams of becoming a
and is very confident (in fact some movie actress. She enjoys shopping,
people think he is a bit bossy). especially with her friends.

Unit 5: Illiteracy (English 11)

Reported speech role play
Level: Intermediate
Teacher's notes:
1. After you have taught reported speech, put the students into groups of
three.
2. Explain that one person in the three is a rich actress/actor, one is his/her
niece/nephew and the last person is the butler.
3. The actor/actress is hearing impaired and dying.
4. She is going to decide what to do with her money and house after her
death.
5. Set up the class so that the actors/actresses are on one side of the room,
the nieces/nephews on the other and the butlers in the middle.
6. The butlers need to give messages from the nieces/nephews to the
actor/actress.
7. The aim is for the butler and the nephew/niece to be nice so that the
actor/actress will give them her money.
8. As they are doing this the butler will use reported speech e.g. She said
that you are lazy and never visited her. He said he was busy and didn't
have time. He said that he was helping animals.

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

You are the niece/nephew of a very rich, famous hearing impaired actress.

You know that she hasn't got long to live. So, for the moment you are trying to
become her favorite relative in order to obtain her millions after she is dead.
You know that she loves animals and children. You also know that her dog is
her closest friend. What do you think will make her give you some money?

You are the butler to a rich, famous hearing impaired actress.

Actually she hasn't got long to live and so you are being very nice to her at the
moment, you think you have a good chance of being left her millions in her
will. You have always helped her and you have looked after her cats and dogs
with care. You think you should at least get the house which you have cleaned
for nearly 40 years! You don't like her niece/nephew who has suddenly made an
appearance.
You always have to act as a go between for the niece/nephew and aunt because
the aunt can never hear her relative.

You are a rich, famous, hearing impaired actress.

You know that you haven't got long for this world but you don't mind because
you have had a good life. You also know that your niece/nephew wants
something but you're not sure what.
You have already written your will but you are prepared to change it.
Your will: $ 2 million to be left to the animal rescue league (you love cats)
Your house will go to your dog. It has been a faithful companion animal and
you want it to have a home when you're gone.
Your jewelry will be sold at auction in order to raise money for the children's
hospital near your house. You haven't decided about the rest, a sum total of
$150,000. Your butler has always been good to you. Your niece/nephew is also
sweet. You are waiting to hear what they have to say. You feel that if they can
show you how good they really are you will give the money to either one of
them.

As a follow up lesson:
Ask the students what type of words "hearing impaired" and "companion
animal" are i.e. politically correct. For homework ask the students to think/find
of more politically correct words. The students can compare their lists when
they get back into class.

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Unit 9: The Post Office (English 11)
Role-play: I Need to Mail This Letter to Mexico
1. Materials:
 Post Office Customer Activity Sheet
 Post Office Clerk Activity Sheet
 Post Office Rate Sheet
 Customer Errands Sheets
2. Purpose and Audience:
This role-play is intended for false beginners who are working in the postal
industry or need some survival travel English skills. The role-play includes the
language for talking about delivering letters, parcels, packages, and postcards.
The role-play also presents an opportunity to go over numbers used for dollar
amounts such as $12.95 or $42.00. As well teachers can go over talking about
the time something takes such as 2-3 days (read two to three days or between
two and three days).
3. Warm-up:
As one possible warm-up, I bring a letter and a parcel into class and tell the
class that I have to deliver these. I ask where the post office is. After I get
directions, I tell them I'm worried because the letter is a very important letter
and I don't want it get lost in the mail or I tell them it's my friend's birthday next
week and I want the parcel to get there on time. I see what responses this elicits.
Hopefully, somebody will suggest I use a courier or special delivery. Then we
talk about rates and schedules writing down expressions on the board as needed.
Another possible warm-up is to give the parcel and letters to the students and
then start the class with: Welcome to Chris's Post Office. How can I help you?
If the students simply say that they want to mail the parcel, I counter with:
That'll be $1000 dollars please (or you could use an outrageous amount in the
local currency). Hopefully, this will draw a shocked response and they should
start inquiring as to why it's so expensive. I tell them it's because its super
speedy delivery. This should get them to inquire about other more reasonable
options, which is a big part of the role-play.
4. Class Set-up for Role-play:
The students are divided into customers doing errands at the post office and post
office clerks. The customers need a customer activity sheet and and errand list.
Post office clerks need a post office clerk activity sheet and a complete schedule
of postal rates. I usually have a row of desks with all of the post office clerks on
one side and all of the customers sitting on the other.
5. Class Activity:
Customers go from post office to post office mailing one item on their errand
list at a time. While doing this, they should record the prices and delivery times
on the customer activity sheet. Post office clerks wait for customers to come
into their post offices. The clerks then give the customers the required
information and fill out their postal clerk activity sheets.

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

Argentina
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $1.50 8-10 $5.95 2-4 $25.50 Overnight
days days
Parcels $12.50 4-6 $18.00 10-12 $29.50 4-6
weeks days days
Postcards $0.50 8-10
days
Chile
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $1.75 7-10 $7.40 3-5 $19.50 Overnight
days days
Parcels $8.50 4-5 $15.00 8-10 $36.00 4-6
weeks days days
Postcards $0.60 7-9
days
China
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $1.40 1-2 $5.50 2-4 $18.75 1-2
weeks days days
Parcels $12.00 6-8 $21.50 1-2 $41.00 4-6
weeks weeks days
Postcards $0.70 1-2
weeks
Costa Rica
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $1.60 4-6 $14.40 3-5 $22.50 1-2
days days days
Parcels $13.50 5-7 $17.50 1-2 $29.50 6-8
weeks weeks days
Postcards $0.55 1-2
weeks
Indonesia
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $1.20 8-10 $12.90 3-5 $26.00 2-3
days days days
Parcels $12.50 4-6 $19.50 7-10 $34.00 4-6
weeks days days
Postcards $0.60 2-3
weeks

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Poland
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $2.10 1-2 $14.50 2-4 $32.00 Overnight
weeks days
Parcels $12.00 6-8 $21.00 10-14 $36.00 3-5
weeks days days
Postcards $0.80 7-10
days
Portugal
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $1.85 6-9 $11.35 3-5 $23.00 Overnight
days days
Parcels $10.50 5-7 $35.00 1-2 $45.00 1
weeks weeks week
Postcards $0.50 10-12
days
South Africa
Surface Air Special Courier
Delivery
Letters $0.90 1-2 $15.20 2-4 $22.50 2-3
weeks days days
Parcels $14.40 3-5 $21.00 8-12 $27.80 4-6
weeks days days
Postcards $0.75 8-10
days

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

A: You have to go to the post office to mail B: You have to go to the post office to mail
some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a
list of errands you have to run: list of errands you have to run:
(1) A business letter: You need it delivered (1) A business letter: You need it delivered
to Argentina ASAP. to Chile ASAP.
(2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel) (2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel)
which is in 6 days. She lives in Chile. which is in 6 days. She lives in China.
(3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in (3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in
China. Costa Rica.
(4) A postcard to your friends who are in (4) A postcard to your friends who are in
Costa Rica. Indonesia.
(5) Your cousin’s graduation present (5) Your cousin’s graduation present
(parcel), which is in two months He is (parcel), which is in two months He is
studying in Indonesia. studying in Poland.
(6) A postcard to your old teacher who (6) A postcard to your old teacher who
moved to Poland. moved to Portugal.
(7) A letter to your friend who is going on (7) A letter to your friend who is going on
a very long trip around the world. He a very long trip around the world. He
leaves in two weeks. He lives in leaves in two weeks. He lives in South
Portugal. Africa.
(8) A gift (parcel) for your friend (8) A gift (parcel) for your friend
who is in the hospital and is very sick. who is in the hospital and is very sick.
She is in South Africa. She is in Argentina.

C: You have to go to the post office to mail D: You have to go to the post office to mail
some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a
list of errands you have to run: list of errands you have to run:
(1) A business letter: You need it delivered (1) A business letter: You need it delivered
to China ASAP. to Costa Rica ASAP.
(2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel) (2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel)
which is in 6 days. She lives in Costa which is in 6 days. She lives in
Rica. Indonesia.
(3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in (3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in
Indonesia. Poland.
(4) A postcard to your friends who are in (4) A postcard to your friends who are in
Poland. Portugal.
(5) Your cousin’s graduation present (5) Your cousin’s graduation present
(parcel), which is in two months He is (parcel), which is in two months He is
studying in Portugal. studying in South Africa.
(6) A postcard to your old teacher who (6) A postcard to your old teacher who
moved to South Africa. moved to Argentina.
(7) A letter to your friend who is going on (7) A letter to your friend who is going on
a very long trip around the world. He a very long trip around the world. He
leaves in two weeks. He lives in leaves in two weeks. He lives in Chile.
Argentina. (8) A gift (parcel) for your friend
(8) A gift (parcel) for your friend who is in the hospital and is very sick.
who is in the hospital and is very sick. She is in China.
She is in Chile.
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

E: You have to go to the post office to mail F: You have to go to the post office to mail
some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a
list of errands you have to run: list of errands you have to run:
(1) A business letter: You need it delivered (1) A business letter: You need it delivered
to Costa Rica ASAP. to Poland ASAP.
(2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel) (2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel)
which is in 6 days. She lives in Poland. which is in 6 days. She lives in
(3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in Portugal.
Portugal. (3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in
(4) A postcard to your friends who are in South Africa.
South Africa. (4) A postcard to your friends who are in
(5) Your cousin’s graduation present Argentina.
(parcel), which is in two months He is (5) Your cousin’s graduation present
studying in Argentina. (parcel), which is in two months He is
(6) A postcard to your old teacher who studying in Chile.
moved to Chile. (6) A postcard to your old teacher who
(7) A letter to your friend who is going on moved to China.
a very long trip around the world. He (7) A letter to your friend who is going on
leaves in two weeks. He lives in China. a very long trip around the world. He
(8) A gift (parcel) for your friend leaves in two weeks. He lives in
who is in the hospital and is very sick. Indonesia.
She is in Indonesia. (8) A gift (parcel) for your friend
who is in the hospital and is very sick.
She is in Costa Rica.

G: You have to go to the post office to mail H: You have to go to the post office to mail
some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a some letters, parcels and postcards. Here is a
list of errands you have to run: list of errands you have to run:
(1) A business letter: You need it delivered (1) A business letter: You need it delivered
to Portugal ASAP. to South Africa ASAP.
(2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel) (2) Your friend’s birthday presents (parcel)
which is in 6 days. She lives in South which is in 6 days. She lives in
Africa. Argentina.
(3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in (3) A letter to your Aunt. She lives in
Argentina. Chile.
(4) A postcard to your friends who are in (4) A postcard to your friends who are in
Chile. China.
(5) Your cousin’s graduation present (5) Your cousin’s graduation present
(parcel), which is in two months He is (parcel), which is in two months He is
studying in China. studying in Costa Rica.
(6) A postcard to your old teacher who (6) A postcard to your old teacher who
moved to Costa Rica. moved to Indonesia.
(7) A letter to your friend who is going on (7) A letter to your friend who is going on
a very long trip around the world. He a very long trip around the world. He
leaves in two weeks. He lives in leaves in two weeks. He lives in Poland.
Indonesia. (8) A gift (parcel) for your friend
(8) A gift (parcel) for your friend who is in the hospital and is very sick.
who is in the hospital and is very sick. She is in Portugal.
She is in Poland.

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 Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Conversation: I Need to Send This to Post Office Clerk
Mexico. Activity Sheet

A= Postal Clerk B=Customer You are a clerk at a post office. Customers will
A: Hi. How can I help you? ask you about rates and schedules for letters
B: I need to send this letter to Mexico. and parcels. Find out what the customers want
A: How would you like to send it? to send and where they want to send it and give
B: I’m not sure it. What options are there? the customers the information they need.
A: Well, you can send it air, special delivery, or
courier. Item Country Option Selected Signature
B: What’s the difference between each option? Required
A: Let’s see. Special delivery to Mexico is
$14.95. And it takes from 2-4 days for delivery.
Letter Mexico Special Delivery No
Airmail is $2.95 and takes anywhere from 1
week to 10 business days for delivery. And if
you need it there quickly, courier is probably
your best option. That’s $35.95 for guaranteed
overnight delivery.
B: So that’s $14.95 for special delivery and it’ll
take 2-4 days for delivery?
A: That’s right.
B: OK. I’ll do that.
A: That’ll be $14.95 then. Do you need
someone to sign for it?
B: No. That won’t be necessary.

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 Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Conversation: I Need to Send This to Customer Activity
Mexico. Sheet

A= Postal Clerk B=Customer You are at a post office and you need to send
A: Hi. How can I help you? some parcels and letters abroad. Find out the
B: I need to send this letter to Mexico. different options along with how much they
A: How would you like to send it? cost and how long they take.
B: I’m not sure it. What options are there?
A: Well, you can send it air, special delivery, or Item Country Options Cost Delivery Time
courier.
B: What’s the difference between each option? Air $2.95 2-4 days
A: Let’s see. Special delivery to Mexico is Letter Mexico Special $14.95 7-10 days
$14.95. And it takes from 2-4 days for delivery. Delivery
Airmail is $2.95 and takes anywhere from 1 Courier $35.95 Overnight
week to 10 business days for delivery. And if
you need it there quickly, courier is probably
your best option. That’s $35.95 for guaranteed
overnight delivery.
B: So that’s $14.95 for special delivery and it’ll
take 2-4 days for delivery?
A: That’s right.
B: OK. I’ll do that.
A: That’ll be $14.95 then. Do you need
someone to sign for it?
B: No. That won’t be necessary.

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Unit 10: Nature in Danger (English 11)
Version 1
ROLE PLAY:
A discussion between different parties interested in global warming.
Team up with classmates who have been assigned the same role to develop your
roles and discuss ideas and “strategies” before the role play begins. Introduce
yourself to the other role players. Discuss your roles after the role play ends.
Role A – Penguin leader
You live in Antarctica. You need global warming to stop. Temperatures must
actually get cooler. Your species is at great risk of extinction. Your habitat, the
ice, is melting and your sources of food are disappearing. The world must act to
save you. The day the last penguin dies is the start of the end of the Earth.

Role B – Dessert dweller

You like the recent effects of global warming. It has brought a lot of unexpected
rain to your land. For the first time you can grow things. You have bumper
harvests. You have lots of water to drink. You think global warming is simply a
matter or winners and losers. You think global warming or cooling has always
happened.

Role C – Worried Martian

Billions of years ago, Mars, your planet, looked like Earth. Life was
everywhere. However, greedy Martians controlled the energy sources and the
Mars climate changed, killing all life – except you. The greedy Martians paid
leaders to pretend nothing was happening and that alternative energies would
arise. It was all too late. Advise the Earthlings and the penguins of the dangers
of climate change.

Role D – U.S. President

You are terrified of taking measures to control global warming because you
might lose your power. You believe scientists can build a huge machine to re-
freeze the ice caps. You think keeping American jobs is more important than
penguin food. You know better than the world’s climate experts. You don’t
believe in aliens.

Unit 10: Nature in Danger (English 11)

Version 2
Role play activity: The Environment - Disposing of Car Waste
This is your chance to discuss some of the issues that the European Parliament
makes decisions about. The characters involved in your role play are:
 Tony Fallon, Environmental campaigner
 Trevor Grey, MEP
 Sally Whiting, Car owner
 Simone Taylor, Resident of Chippingham Estate
 Grace Pemberton, Spokesperson for Viva UK (a car manufacturer)

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
These characters are fictional (this means they are not real people) but there are
people like them who have similar opinions.
Your discussion question is: Should car owners be responsible for disposing of
their worn out cars?
Your character is: Tony Fallon, Environmental campaigner
You are pleased that the European Parliament is making an effort to minimise
the damage to the environment that results from car waste as you are concerned
that, up to now, all the petrol and oil has been left to seep into our earth.
However, you believe that this does nothing to deter people from buying new
cars or to stop the ever-increasing level of car usage and consequent pollution.
You want the European Parliament to put the environment first, not the interests
of greedy car manufacturers. You can’t understand why the European
Parliament doesn’t put pressure on car manufacturers to design cars that last for
longer.
Your character is: Trevor Grey, MEP
You and your colleagues in the European Parliament have worked hard to come
up with a solution to the problem of vehicle waste and you are confident that
this will make people responsible for disposing of their vehicle with the
environment in mind. You believe that the European Parliament has balanced
the interest of consumers and manufacturers whilst putting the environment
first.
Your character is: Sally Whiting, Car owner
You’re very suspicious about this European Parliament proposal. You agree
that car owners should be responsible for getting rid of their worn out cars but
you think that you’ll end up paying for this new measure in the end. The car
manufacturers will probably put up their prices. You already pay through the
nose to run your car, which you need for your business and to drive your
disabled son to school. Why shouldn’t the government (which gets all the
money you pay in tax) pay to protect the environment?
Your character is: Simone Taylor, Resident of Chippingham Estate
You think that this is a great idea. Anything that gets rid of this dangerous junk
from the streets is fine by you. Kids love playing on these old cars that people
have simply abandoned and you worry that your kids are going to hurt
themselves. You believe that people need to take responsibility for things they
buy. If you buy it – you’re responsible for disposing of it in a safe and sensible
way. You don’t understand why the European Parliament is involved though.
Surely the local council or government can sort this out without getting the
European Union involved?
Your character is: Grace Pemberton, Spokesperson for Viva UK (a car
manufacturer)
Cars are an important part of modern life and your company fully supports the
European Parliament’s proposal to make people dispose of them responsibly.
Viva UK is committed to protecting the environment and is happy to contribute
toward these measures. You want to reassure car owners that Viva UK is
prepared to put its money where its mouth is and bear at least part of the cost of
disposing of cars safely.

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL

Unit 11: Sources of Energy (English 11)

Going green: Role play
A - You want to convince your school to use more renewable energy. You think
that global warming is a big problem and you want to try and reduce the effect
your school has on the environment. Try to convince your school’s director that
he / she should invest in renewable energy.
B - You are the director of the school. You think it would be a good idea to
change to renewable energy but you are worried that changing to renewable
energy is very expensive. You want to spend the school’s money on other
things.
Unit: The Asian Games (English 11)
Roles for Planning Debate
Version 1
James Nicholson (Factory owner Peter Connor (14) member of the
Lea Valley) Eastway, Lea Valley, cycle group

I owned a factory in the Lower I have been training at the Eastway

Lea Valley. The Olympic plans cycle club since I was 11. When the old
meant my business headquarters Eastway cycle park was bulldozed to
had to be bulldozed to make way make way for the Olympic park we
for the Olympic park. were promised improved cycling
facilities on the new Olympic site.
I employed 15 local people who In fact, the Olympic Delivery
relied on the company for jobs. It Authority (ODA) has scaled-down the
is not simply a case of just moving plans to provide these cycling facilities.
the business. Many of my workers We believed that the new 34-hectare
did not own cars and walked to site would include a 6,000-seat
work. They have had trouble velodrome, along with a one-mile road-
getting to work since the factory racing circuit, a BMX track, a full-
relocated to the edge of the city. scale mountain bike track and a cycle
speedway circuit.
I am sad that the long-established, The plans have now changed and the
thriving business and industrial new cycle park will not be of the same
community in the lea valley have standard as the one that had been
been wiped about by the demolished. I would like to compete in
development. In the end some of the Olympics as I am ranked in the top
businesses were evicted before 10 nationally. I hope I will have
they could get new premises. adequate facilities to train.

I do agree that the area needs

regenerating but I think it should
be in a way that will benefit all
local people.
Mrs Cessario (Local community Miss B (Local councilor for
spokesperson) Newham)
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
There are fears that this first burst £2 billion will be invested in the
of development for the Olympics Games, much of which will be in
will not benefit the people actually Newham, bringing many benefits. The
living in Newham. area will be improved to provide the
Areas around the Olympic site are biggest new park in Europe and
already becoming hot property for provide a better sense of security and
developers. Property investors are openness with improved access for
moving in; buying up cheap pedestrians and cyclists. More than
housing and hoping for a housing 9,000 new homes will be built, with
windfall as gentrification drives up schools, health and community
property prices. The 'real' residents facilities to match. The Games will
are being pushed to the edges of provide hundreds of jobs and
the borough, and into next-door improving the image of Newham. The
Barking and Dagenham where Games will bring great sporting
they can afford rents. It is sad that facilities and help to promote sport and
young people will not be able to healthy lifestyles in an area that has
get a foot on the property ladder in one of the worst health records in the
their own area. UK. Stratford and West Ham stations
will be improved. Lastly, the Games
will boost London's tourism industry.
Newham businesses will be gearing up
to take advantage of this opportunity.
Mrs A (Representative of the Zara Daniels (Local school leaver)
ODA Olympic Delivery Autority) What I want from the Olympics is for
Our job is to create one of the jobs to be created in my local
largest new urban parks in Europe community. At the moment Newham
for 150 years with a lasting legacy has a high youth unemployment rate of
of world class sporting facilites, 25.2%. The overall unemployment rate
homes for the community that will is 6.7% the second highest in London
live in the areas and unrivalled below Hackney. What I want from the
green open spaces around the Park Olympics is a good job in the future
after the Games. Benfits resulting and a lower unemployment rate.
from the Olympics include a I have heard that up to 34,000 new jobs
World class Stadium, velodrome, could be created in the Stratford city
Aquatics Centre and indoor arena, development alone as London prepares
110 hectares of improved open for the 2012 Olympics. My Main
space and significant employment concern is that I may not be able to
opportunites. Approximately 4,500 afford to live in the borough in the
homes will be converted from the future unless I can get a well paid job.
Olympic Village and there will be
150,500sq metres of new retail
space at Stratford City and
465,000sq metres of new office
space.

Debate/ Role play:

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Each pupil takes the role of one of the people on the cards. In groups they have
to decide if they think the Olympic Games will benefit the local people of
Newham. A spokesperson from each group should feedback the group’s
decision to the rest of the class.
Unit 12: The Asian Games (English 11)
Version 2
London Olympics Role Play
1) Local businessman
You are a local businessman living in Newnham. You own a small
computer shop but would like to expand if you could get more
customers. You have heard about the plans for developing the area for
the Olympics, and whilst it may be good for business, you have some
concerns.
Think about the following points:
 Will there be any disruption to your business during the building
phase?
 What will happen to you number of customers a) during
construction, b) after construction
 When redevelopment is complete, what will happen to land prices
and rent?
Fill in the table below to show the advantages and disadvantages for you of
London hosting the Olympics
Advantages (good things) Disadvantages (bad things)

You are going to go to a local planning meeting about the development of the
Olympic area. Write a statement and the back of this sheet to take with you.
You will have to say:
 Whether or not you think the development should go ahead and why
 What restrictions or conditions you would like to see in the development
of the area (e.g. the development should go ahead, but only if …….)
 Questions to ask the Olympic planning committee
London Olympics Role Play
2) Elderly residents
You are an elderly resident living in Newnham. You have lived here all you life
and have seen a lot of changes. How does the prospect of redeveloping the area
make you feel? Consider the following things:
 There is a lot of building that has to take place to make stadiums,
roads, accommodation etc. How will this affect you?
 How will local transport be affected?
 What will it be like for you during the Games?
 Who do you think is paying for the Olympic Games?
 What will happen to the area after the Olympics?
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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
Fill in the table below to show the advantages and disadvantages for you of
London hosting the Olympics
Advantages (good things) Disadvantages (bad things)

You are going to go to a local planning meeting about the development of the
Olympic area. Write a statement on the back of this sheet to take with you.
You will have to say
 Whether or not you think the development should go ahead and why
 What restrictions or conditions you would like to see in the development
of the area (e.g. the development should go ahead, but only if …….)
 Questions to ask the Olympic planning committee
London Olympics Role Play
3) Young family
You are a young couple with a small child and another on the way. You enjoy
sport and want your children to be healthy and active. In the next few years, you
would like to buy your own house. Your are excited about the Games coming
to London, but also have some concerns. Think about the following:
 How will the Olympics affect your local area?
 What benefits/disadvantages may it bring for you children?
 What will happen to house prices?
 Will you be able to watch?
 Will it be safe for your children?
 Who do you think will pay for the Olympics?
Fill in the table below to show the advantages and disadvantages for you of
London hosting the Olympics
Advantages (good things) Disadvantages (bad things)

You are going to go to a local planning meeting about the development of the
Olympic area. Write a statement on the back of this sheet to take with you.
You will have to say
 Whether or not you think the development should go ahead and why
 What restrictions or conditions you would like to see in the development
of the area (e.g. the development should go ahead, but only if …….)
 Questions to ask the Olympic planning committee
London Olympics Role Play
4) Sports fan in Manchester

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Using role-plays in teaching speaking by CHL
You are a huge sports fan and have always wanted to see the Olympics and
2012 may be your chance! You work hard for a living but don’t have a lot of
spare cash. Manchester is about 3 hours from London on the train and 5
hours by car. What are your opinions on the Olympics in London? Consider
the following points:
 London already gets lots of investment.
 Will the cost of hotels go up?
 Will there be enough transport links?
 How will tickets be allocated?
Fill in the table below to show the advantages and disadvantages for you of
London hosting the Olympics
Advantages (good things) Disadvantages (bad things)

You are going to go to a local planning meeting about the development of the
Olympic area. Write a statement on the back of this sheet to take with you.
You will have to say
 Whether or not you think the development should go ahead and why
 What restrictions or conditions you would like to see in the development
of the area (e.g. the development should go ahead, but only if …….)
 Questions to ask the Olympic planning committee
London Olympics Role Play
5) Environmentalists
You are members of an environmental group. You are concerned about the
environmental impacts of the Olympic Games and want to know what will be
done to minimize the damage to the local environment. What are your views on
the development of Newnham? Consider the following points
 The area I currently run down, industrial and quite polluted
 There will be a lot of construction
 There will be lots of transport, lorries etc in developing the area
 Thousands of visitors will be coming from all over the world
Fill in the table below to show the advantages and disadvantages for you of
London hosting the Olympics
Advantages (good things) Disadvantages (bad things)

You are going to go to a local planning meeting about the development of the
Olympic area. Write a statement on the back of this sheet to take with you.
You will have to say:
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 Whether or not you think the development should go ahead and why
 What restrictions or conditions you would like to see in the development
of the area (e.g. the development should go ahead, but only if …….)
 Questions to ask the Olympic planning committee
London Olympics Role Play
6) Local youth community sports centre
You run a local youth sports centre. Naturally you are very excited about the
Olympic games coming to Newnham, but you also have some concerns.
How will the development of the area affect you? Consider the following
points:
 Young athletes need role models and something to inspire them
 Your current facilities are old and quite basic
 Will you b able to use the new facilities and how much will they cost?
Fill in the table below to show the advantages and disadvantages for you of
London hosting the Olympics
Advantages (good things) Disadvantages (bad things)

You are going to go to a local planning meeting about the development of the
Olympic area. Write a statement on the back of this sheet to take with you.
You will have to say
 Whether or not you think the development should go ahead and why
 What restrictions or conditions you would like to see in the development
of the area (e.g. the development should go ahead, but only if …….)
 Questions to ask the Olympic planning committee
London Olympics Role Play
7) Olympic committee
You are members of the Olympic planning committee. You are in charge of
the plans for development of the area of Newnham in preparation for the
Olympic Games. You are going to hear comments and concerns from the
following groups of people:
1) Local business man
2) Elderly residents
3) Young family
4) Sports fan in Manchester
5) Environmentalists
6) Local youth community sports centre
They will be asking you questions about how you are going to make the
Games benefit all of them.
Read the following information so you are prepared to answer the questions
and convince them that the Olympics will be good for them all.
 The Games will be a zero-waste Games by avoiding landfill and using
waste as a resource for recycling and re-use
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 The Games will transform this area into one of the largest urban parks
created in Europe more than 150 years, stretching 20 miles from the
Hertfordshire countryside to the tidal estuary of the River Thames.
 A network of footpaths, cycleways and canal towpaths will link the
communities on either side of the valley.
 Riverside housing, shops, restaurants and cafes will provide new amenities
for the local community.
 New playing fields will sit alongside the world-class sport facilities that
will be adapted for community use.
 The natural river system of the valley will be restored, canals would be
dredged and waterways widened. Birdwatchers and ecologists will be able
to enjoy three hectacres of new wetland habitat.
 And the park will be planted with native species, including oak, ash, birch,
hazel, holly, blackthorn and hawthorn, providing a home for wildlife in the
middle of the city.
 The Olympic Park area will generate 12,000 new jobs, in sectors as diverse
as construction, tourism and the media.
 Training programmes and volunteering opportunities will improve skills
for local people, opening up access to new jobs
 9,000 new homes will be created, alongside new schools, health and
community facilities. Half of these homes would be designated as
affordable housing.
 A new generation of Londoners will enjoy access to state-of-the-art sports
facilities, from elite Olympians and Paralympians to national and local
leagues.
V. Conclusion:
Role-plays require more imagination by students and teacher and can be
difficult to manage because they are unpredictable. The initial scenario develops
from the students interacting with each other and can literally go in any
direction. This gives students practice in a non-threatening environment, and
gives the motivation and involvement where they have to think in English.
Role-plays are interesting, memorable and engaging, and students retain the
material they have learned. In their assumed role, students drop their shyness
and other personality and cultural inhibitions, making them one of the best tools
available for teaching a second language.
Staging role-plays can be challenging for an instructor, but is also great fun.
After you have done a few, you will know what to expect and feel more
confident. My experience is students love them, retain what they learn, and
often leave the classroom laughing and still arguing!

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