50 speech, language and communication games for the classroom

This resource contains 50 different games and activities which can be used to develop speech, language and communication skills in the classroom. This resource helps to develop speech, language and communication skills in all pupils, as well as those with identified needs. Many of the activities also have a strong link with literacy - supporting pupils to develop reading, writing and spelling skills.

This is a collection of games and activities to be used in mainstream classrooms. The activities can also all be adapted for use in small group interventions or for one-to-one work. They require minimal planning and preparation. They are designed to develop speech, language and communication skills in all pupils and to complement everyday teaching. They can be used in any order and staff should pick those most relevant to the pupils they are working with. The games and activities can all be adapted for KS1, 2, 3 and 4.

Activities 1 – 13 develop listening skills such as identifying syllables and initial sounds, identifying boundaries between words, identifying rhyme and listening for specific words and information.

Activities 14 – 30 develop vocabulary knowledge, both general and topic-specific.

Activities 31 – 36 focus on developing receptive language skills – understanding what has been said / written.

Activities 37 – 42 develop expressive language skills – the ability to use language clearly and coherently, including how to structure a narrative.

Activities 43 – 50 focus on social communication skills such as conversational skills, dealing with difficulties, emotional and social understanding.

This is suitable for any mainstream classroom, anybody with a responsibility for SLCN / SEN and for a whole-school approach to developing language and communication skills. For a whole-school approach, try introducing one activity per week and encouraging all staff to use and reflect on it.