New School Year – Activities for Teachers

Topic for ESL Learners

Back to School Activities for Teachers: Icebreakers, Reviews & More

The start of the school year is the perfect opportunity for teachers to set the tone, build classroom rapport, and assess their students’ needs. Here are some useful activities to begin the year effectively.

Back-to-School Activities for Teachers

Topics for English Language Learners: Back to School Activities for Teachers | Icebreakers, Reviews & More
Back to School Activities for Teachers | Icebreakers, Reviews & More

Here are some useful back-to-school activities for teachers of English:

1. Ice-Breaking Activities

Help students feel comfortable, get to know each other, and create a positive learning environment.

  • Two Truths and a Lie – Students share two true statements and one false one; classmates guess which is false.
  • Find Someone Who… – A mingle activity where students move around asking questions to complete a checklist (e.g., “Find someone who has a pet”).
  • Name Games – Activities to remember names, such as “Adjective + Name” (e.g., “Smart Sarah”).

👉 See also: Ice-Breaking Activities for the Classroom

2. Diagnostic Tests and Remedial Work

Early assessments help teachers identify strengths and weaknesses.

  • Short Placement Test – A grammar and vocabulary quiz to gauge levels.
  • Writing Sample – Ask students to write a short paragraph about their holidays.
  • Speaking Warm-up – Pair discussions on familiar topics (e.g., hobbies, family).

👉 See also: Diagnostic Tests and Assessment in ESL

More on Language Testing!

3. Review Activities

Revisiting previously learned material, including grammar, vocabulary, speaking, and writing, helps refresh knowledge and build confidence.

  • Quick Quizzes – Short multiple-choice or gap-fill exercises.
  • Jeopardy-Style Review Game – Categories based on grammar, vocabulary, and culture.
  • Vocabulary Brainstorm – Groups list as many words as possible related to a given theme (e.g., school, travel).

👉 See also: Fun Review Games for ESL Learners

4. Goal-Setting Activities

Encourage students to take responsibility for their learning.

  • Learning Contracts – Students write down their goals and strategies.
  • Vision Boards – Creative posters illustrating what they want to achieve this year.
  • Classroom Rules Charter – Students collaborate to set classroom expectations.

👉 See also: Motivating Students to Learn English

Classroom Management for a Smooth Start

Classroom Management
Classroom Management

A successful school year depends not only on lesson planning but also on effective classroom management. Establishing clear rules, setting routines, and building positive teacher–student relationships help create a respectful and productive learning environment. Consistency is key—when students know what to expect, they feel more secure and ready to learn.

Below, you can find more useful resources and strategies on classroom management:

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