Page 3 - English 9 | Games and Activities-5

Games are learner-centered activities and they can be considered as
an excellent opportunity for students in terms of taking responsibility for
their own learning. Being one of the most essential components in foreign
language classes, thanks to the advantages, games are frequently used
in learning and teaching English as well.

It is a well-known fact that games are educationally valuable, and they
can be highly motivating and challenging. Providing a meaningful context
for language use, they encourage students to interact, communicate
and sustain the effort of learning (Lee, 1995). Games allow students to
analyze the information and develop their critical thinking skills (Lujan et
al., 2006), and they also develop problem-solving skills through choices
students make during a game (Feinstein et al., 2002). Furthermore, it is
known that games can lower anxiety and contribute to second language
acquisition. Enabling students to acquire new experiences within a foreign
language and adding diversion to the regular classroom activities, they
create a relaxed learning atmosphere (Fromme, 2003; McFarlane and
Sakellariou, 2002).
Supporting the teaching methods used frequently in the classroom,
the games and activities included in the book are quite useful for not
only teachers but also students. The book offers teachers to have the
opportunity to learn about various types of games and activities that can
enhance learning process while adding fun to class. Besides, it is a great
book for students to take responsibility for their own learning thanks to the
games and activities that let them work individually, in pairs, in groups and
as a whole class.

With this book, it is aimed to make learning more effective and meaningful
by providing a competitive, participatory and enjoyable educational
environment. Another aim of this book is to help students develop
self-confidence and build higher self-esteem. Moreover, thanks to the
interactive games and activities, it is intended that students use the four
basic language skills integrated with each other more effectively.
It is purposed that students are provided with the knowledge and skills
determined in line with the language functions in the curriculum effectively,
acquire various skills, apply these skills in different situations and enjoy
while doing all of these.

We believe the games and activities will be useful for our students.