English grammar rules are often confusing and difficult for students to grasp. Traditional teaching methods can be boring. An effective way to capture the attention of your students is by making a game of learning grammar. Joel Bacha, author of "Play and Affect in Language Learning," says, "Exposure to challenges and stimulation piques the children's natural curiosity and, in turn, promotes learning through the activity's required skills." There are many games available promote this theory. Learn how you can take the pain out of learning grammar by introducing your students to fun, challenging games

1

Purchase a few grammar board games for your class. There are a variety of board games available online that teach specific areas of grammar and usage. Educational Learning Games offers a wide selection. Choose various games, based on the lesson plan you use with your students. "Spying Parts of Speech" and "Sentence Scramble" are good choices. Don't forget to ask about the educational discount price of the board games.

2

Take advantage of a Web site that offers free grammar games. Gamezone has a lot of fun, constructive games your students can play free of charge. There's no need to set up an account with Gamezone to access the games.

3

Consider purchasing the Grammar Pack software program for regular use in your classroom. The pack includes the popular Grammar Quest game, Storymaker game and quiz worksheets you can print and hand out to students. The pack also includes a story builder that lets your students create their own grammar games.

4

Arrange a grammar party for your class. Give it a cool name like Grammar Jam. Check with the school to see if they can provide snacks. Consider using an entire day (maybe a Friday) to let the class play grammar board games and online grammar games. Have the class alternate playing the games so everyone gets to play a game related to all of the topics. Let the class know there will be a test the following Monday. You can award anyone in your class who gets a passing grade a prize.

Tips

Try making up your own grammar games using traditional game boards such as a checker board, or use the classic tic tac toe or hangman setup for class activities by adding a grammatical element to the game.