It's only words...

 

This video is a great example of how modern technology can help liven up your lessons.

WORDS, by Radiolab and NPR, is available free on YouTube. So provided you have internet access, and a projector or interactive white board, you will be able to use it in your classes. It is not suitable for beginners, or very young learners, but will work a treat on intermediate and advanced students.

The aim of the video is to demonstrate just how ambiguous the English language can be. Using it is simple. Just show it to your students, a few times if needs be, and ask them if they can note down the nine 'themes'.

After they have done this, write down the themes on the board, play the video back and explain each one in turn. This is a fun exercise which makes light of something that might otherwise frustrate your students - the fact that English words can have so many meanings. But before you can do this you will have to guess the themes yourself!

Here's a hint, number one is 'play'...