Purpose: To review vocabulary or to activate knowledge about a particular topic

Preparation Time:  None

Materials:  Paper and pencils

Procedure:

1)      Students write the alphabet vertically on their paper, one letter on each line.

2)      Give the students the topic. Example: food.

3)      You may have students cross out letters that not many words begin with (q, z, x, etc.).

4)      Students brainstorm words related to the topic that begin with each letter. If they think of more than one word for some letters, they should write all of the words. They should skip letters for which they can’t find a word and come back to them if they have time. Time the activity carefully and stop it before students are completely “stuck” on the letters they have left.

5)      When students are ready, conduct a feedback session during which they can add words others thought of to their list.