Teaching secondary
school aged students

Pattern Practice

What and Why?

A key part in language learning is having the opportunity to use the language creatively to say real things. However, there is also an element in language learning which involves practicing particular structures or forms so that the students can produce them effortlessly. One way in which this can be done is through pattern practice. Students produce sentences following a particular pattern and in doing so develop their ability to control the mechanical aspects of language production. Over-used, however, pattern practice can produce students who become bored and who find it difficult to use the language to actually communicate. For this reason, CES includes relatively few patterned exercises.

Practical ideas

• Pattern practice exercises can be done in small groups or pairs so that students get more opportunity to speak without having to wait for the rest of the class.
• The focus of pattern practice activities is on the form of what is said. This is the appropriate time to ensure that things are said accurately.
• Before getting students to work in pairs/groups on a patterned exercise, go through a few examples with the whole class so they know what is expected.
• While they are working, you can be monitoring and guiding.
• Oral pattern practice exercises can also be done in writing.