Testing vocabulary in class:
10 methods students enjoy
Always just “What does … mean?” – that wears out your class and you. Here are ten proven ways to check vocabulary without it feeling like a test. Most need no preparation, and some you can play straight away on the projector with Lenguvo.
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10 ways to test vocabulary
- 1
Hot seat
5–10 minOne student sits with their back to the board where a word is written. The class describes it in the target language until the student guesses it. Practises vocabulary and speaking at the same time.
Play on the projector → - 2
Taboo
10 minLike hot seat, but certain words are not allowed when describing. Great for more advanced classes.
Play on the projector → - 3
Live quiz on the projector
5–10 minEveryone plays at the same time on their phone while the leaderboard runs on the projector. As a team tug of war it is especially motivating for younger classes.
Start a live quiz → - 4
Word scramble
5 minThe letters of a word appear jumbled up – whoever names the right word first gets the point. Practises spelling.
Play on the projector → - 5
Hangman
5 minThe classic – works best with words from the current unit so the class has a fair chance.
Play on the projector → - 6
Flashcards in pairs
10 minPairs test each other, and cards answered wrongly go on a separate pile. Everyone is active at the same time.
- 7
Word chain
5 minThe first student says a word, the next says one starting with its last letter – in the target language. Whoever hesitates sits down.
Rules & template → - 8
One-minute talk
1 min per studentA student talks for one minute about a topic from the unit and has to use five given words.
Try the game → - 9
Short test with self-marking
10 minTen words, then swap and mark – or let students take it online and Lenguvo marks it automatically.
Online vocabulary test → - 10
Online homework instead of testing
0 min in classIf you already know before the lesson who has studied, you don’t need to test everyone – you only revise the words that are still missing.
Vocabulary homework →
Tip: mix it up
Alternate between calm methods (flashcards in pairs, short test) and lively ones (hot seat, live quiz). That keeps vocabulary checks a routine without making them boring – and quieter students get their turn too.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I test vocabulary?
Short and regular works better than rare and long: two or three five-minute checks a week rather than one big test a month.
How can I test vocabulary without putting weaker students on the spot?
Methods where everyone answers at the same time (live quiz, flashcards in pairs) take the pressure off individuals. In the live quiz students can also play with nicknames.
Do I need an app for the digital methods?
No. Lenguvo runs in the browser on the projector, and students join on a phone or tablet – nothing to install and no account needed.
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