3 Things: A Simple, No-Prep ESL Writing Activity

If you’re looking for a fun, quick ESL writing activity, then you’ll certainly want to consider 3 things. It’s ideal for getting students to use their creative side and the other good thing is that it requires no materials except for paper and pen. Have some fun with English writing with your students today!

3 Things English Writing Activity: Introduction

Skills: Writing/listening
Time: 10+ minutes
Level: Beginner-advancedMaterials Required: Nothing

Have students think of three random things for a partner. For example: A, B, and C. They should be objects, animals or people of some kind. Or, you may want to do it related to a theme. For example, Halloween.

Then, students have to write a story using all three of these things. It can be silly, and actually, the sillier the better! The length of the story and the time you give depends on the level of your students. Students can share their story with the person who thought of the three objects.

A Variation for Beginners

For beginners to English writing, you may want to do this together as a class. The students could shout out three random words and then you can write them on the board. Then, they could help you write a simple story using those words.

Or, you may want to consider showing them an example of a simple, silly story using random words and then have them make their own using new words but with many of the same sentences from the example one. This is a nice transition into more advanced levels of writing but a step up from simply copying what they see.

Procedure for 3 Things English Writing Activity

1. Put students into pairs and each person has to think of three random objects for their partner.
2. Students have to write a short story using those three objects. Consider using an adaptation (mentioned above) for beginners. You could also consider having students do this in pairs and writing the story together.
3. Then, they can share their story with their partner.
4. You can also ask for volunteers to share their stories with the class or require that students turn in a more polished version of this for a homework assignment.

Did you Like this ESL Writing Activity?

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You can find the book in both print and digital formats. The digital copy can be read on any  device by downloading the free Kindle reading app. Or, consider keeping  a copy on the bookshelf in your office to use as a handy reference guide when teaching ESL writing.

It really is that easy to have better English writing classes! Check out the book for yourself on Amazon, but only if you want a serious dose of ESL teaching awesome in your life:

Have your Say about 3 Things, a Simple ESL Writing Activity

What are your thoughts about this activity? Is it a winner or do you have another writing activity that you’d like to recommend? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts. We’d love to  hear from you.

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Last update on 2021-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API