Reinforcing Grammar Mastery and Introducing World Culture through Card Games

An abstract presented by Purwanto. Purwanto is a graduate of the English Department, IKIP, Jakarta. Currently, he is teaching at LBPP LIA Jogjakarta. His contact number is 081578485871

English grammar is always a problem for beginners to learn, and a challenge for teachers to teach because it should be conveyed in a fun way so that students can enjoy the learning. ESL teaching principles say learners must have a low affective filter to learn better. Games are a solution to put students in a relaxed and enjoyable way to learn language components. Card games like domino, quartet and rummy cards which are universal can be modified into exciting and effective ways to reinforce students’ grammar mastery and to introduce world culture.

Any card games can be played by two or seven people. Before we can apply the technique, there several things that we have to prepare. First, create and modify our own cards using computer programs: both rummy cards and domino cards are modified with pictures and words. Pictures can be obtained from clip arts or downloaded from the internet. Second, select the pattern that needs reinforcement or aspects of world culture that need to be introduced. Third, additional rules are made besides the general rules so that every player must use or talk about the pictures with the intended pattern during the game.

There are at least three benefits of the technique. First, cards are lasting and we can multiply them. Second, one pack of cards can be used to teach more than one sentence pattern. Third, by making their own cards, teachers learn how to use technology to improve their professionalism.

For complete card game, download quartet

Note from the admin:

I happened to attend Mr. Purwanto’s presentation. He gladly shared the cards he modified in a form of soft copy. I wish it could be beneficial for everyone.

M. Lala