Preposition game with movement

Now that you have introduced the first batch of prepositions proceed with a listening game. First, put children in pairs. Next, name a preposition and have pupils jump into a position that illustrates it. Of course, with very young learners, you will have to demonstrate suitable actions.  Work these out with the children before you play. For example, one child could be static while the other demonstrates the preposition.   For instance, for ‘under,’ one child can be on all fours while the other lies underneath. Alternatively, one child can straddle another. Avoid crushing or squishing; some children may be heavier than others!

If you have limited space, demonstrate in pairs with more contained postures like holding hands underneath or over the other child’s outstretched arms.

‘In front’ or ‘behind’ can be done with one person standing behind the other.

For ‘in’ and ‘out,’ one child could make a circle with their arms. The other child stands in or out of it.  Hoops are fun to jump in and out of.  Alternatively, place a piece of material on the floor or designate a pretend swimming pool. Then, tell pupils to jump in and out of it.

The lesson plan continues with more ESL preposition games, gradually bringing the children along until they know them all by heart and can use them in sentences.