Find someone who... is continuously progressing! An ESL speaking activity by James Trotta
With most classes, you'll want to go over the meaning of 'SO' (significant other) and how to form the follow up questions (a one or two word clue is given after each initial question) before beginning the activity. During the activity I usually circulate, participate a little bit (to encourage students), and listen a lot. I write down the mistakes I hear (especially regarding question formation and past and present perfect continuous/progressive) so that I can put them on the board and go over them with the entire class after the activity. Before using this activity, look at #5 and either replace my name with yours or omit the question. #8 won't be appropriate for learners who aren't being assigned grades.
Use follow up questions!
1. ________________ has been dating his/her SO for more than a year. How long?
2. ________________ was not sleeping at midnight last night. What?
3. ________________ was going to school when s/he fell in love for the first time. Who?
4. ________________ has been playing a sport for more than 5 years. Which?
5. ________________ was doing English homework when s/he realized that Jim is a great teacher. Why?
6. ________________ is thinking about something other than English. What?
7. ________________ has been studying English for more than five years. How long?
8. ________________ is getting good grades in his/her classes. How good?
9. ________________ has been planning something special for a long time. What? How long?
10. _______________ was out drinking Saturday night. Where? Who?
11. _______________ has recently been studying English very hard. Why?
12. _______________ has been playing a computer game for more that three years. Which?