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Too often, teachers think of video and film as a material that is complete and of itself. This is how the lesson materials are designed, to explore the video content as a full lesson.
However, video can be a great supplement to any existing lesson and especially as a “prompt” - just using it as a starting point.
Take this example - Seen. A 1-minute film. A boy sees something, he drops his binoculars, and he runs home scared. He sees his binoculars hanging up outside the house. What did he see? What’s the real story? Get students to use the film as a prompt for further language activities. It’s fantastic, open-ended lesson material.
There are many such “prompt” style videos on ELT Buzz Video Lessons.
Another kind of prompt is for students to watch a short commercial and guess what product is being advertised. It’s fun, simple. Stop before the end and ask students to guess. Try this video, full of prompts.
“Finish the story” or offer an alternative ending is a great prompt-style activity. Watch the video and then have students create and share their alternative endings. Try this ghost story.
As mentioned, video works great as a “hook”, a way to introduce a topic and generate student interest and prompt for background knowledge. Here is one “hook” style video outlining the importance of learning English and to talk about reasons to speak English well.
Of course, prompt students in the traditional ways with questions, flashcards, words, sentence starters and more … Try our free online generator full of endless prompt possibilities!