Short answer
Use a short, relevant activity that introduces the topic and gives learners a comfortable first way to participate. In S06E23, Em describes using a candle as a symbolic prompt for a lesson on “wish”; a picture or imaginary candle can create the same idea without a flame.
Em links a wish lesson to a candle prompt in S06E23. Gav’s closing Welcome, Wait and Watch reminder adds a participation routine around that first activity.
Try this in your next lesson
Show an imaginary candle and model I wish I could fly. Give thinking time, invite a fictional wish, then connect it to the lesson’s pattern.
👇 Scroll down for our practical checklist or activity and download.
Listen to the whole S06E23 discussion in our podcast episode guide here🔊.
Welcome, wait and watch
Gav’s teacher tip is “Welcome, Wait and Watch”. He applies the same idea to learners: watch and learn from others, wait patiently because language learning takes time, and welcome classmates into the learning space.
A warm-up should connect to the lesson rather than take over the lesson. Keep it short, relevant and easy to join.
Give the opening one small job
A warm-up can introduce a topic, reveal existing language or give everyone an accessible first turn. Choose the job that matters today. A picture or imaginary candle is enough for this wish prompt.
For our adaptation, choose the present-ability model I wish I could fly and explain that the person cannot fly now. Learners can invent another ability instead of sharing something personal. Let them think, compare in pairs and offer one idea. Use their answers to decide the support needed next. Keep the opening short enough that learners can see where it leads.
Gav and Em suggest: a short classroom adaptation
Use this as a starting routine and adapt it to your learners.
- Welcome learners into the lesson and explain the first activity simply.
- Wait while learners think and compose their answers.
- Watch how learners are participating and whether anyone needs support.
- Encourage learners to listen to and welcome one another.
Answers and teacher guidance
I wish I could fly imagines a different present ability. It does not describe a past event.
📥 Download the free teacher practice card (PDF)
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