Fun and Easy ESL Games and Activities for Learning Color

These ESL (English as a Second Language) games are especially great for young learners ages 5-10. However, you can add to the complexity of the games (include more difficult colors like aqua, maroon) for older learners.

The Color Dice

Obtain 1-2 dice that have different colors on each side. If you cannot find one, simply make your own out of a box and tape/glue color cards on each side. Show your students the colors on each side to review/practice. After the students understand the colors, throw the die around to each student. The student must name whatever color lands "face up." If s/he doesn't know the color, ask the class and repeat the activity.

The Color Fly-Swatter Game

To prep for this, you need cards with different colors on them as well as 2-3 fly swatters. Put magnets on each of the color cards (or Velcro) or simply place the cards on the ground. Choose two or three volunteers. Have the other students say, "What color is it?" or a similar phrase. You, the teacher, will choose a color. The student who hits the correct color first is the winner. (Fly swatters are great because you can see who hit the correct card first by whose fly swatter is in the bottom!)

The Mystery Bag Game

Collect an assortment of colorful items such as fruits, hats, markers, etc. Place them all in a bag and call on 1 student at a time. S/he will come to the front, reach her hand in the mystery bag and pull out an item. Have the other students say, "What color is it?" or a similar phrase. The student will answer the class by telling what color the item is.

Color Bingo

Hand out blank bingo sheets (with a freebie spot!) to each of your students. One at a time, have the students fill in each square (9 is a good number). For example, say "Everyone show me your orange crayon!" Students will hold up the orange crayon and then choose a box to fill in. Once the bingo sheet is finished, have the other students say, "What color is it?" or a similar phrase. Then say the color and proceed as you would a normal Bingo game.

Colorful Ice Cream Cone Activity

Cut out ice cream scoop shapes in a variety of shades and place magnets/Velcro on the back. Also cut out an ice cream cone and do the same! Hand each "scoop" to a student and have each student stand up and tell you their color, one at time. Next, call on the "colors" one by one. They will place their scoop on top of your ice cream cone to build one giant ice cream cone treat! Seems easy enough, but the students get a kick out of the finished project!

Good luck with your ESL color lesson! For more ESL games and activities (or advice) please click "Wendy Gould" at the top of this article. Thanks!