The Apprentice . . . or Something Similar

From APEC HRDWG Wiki

Simulation and gaming theory, which was started as a mathematical method of interactive decision-making, may be used in language learning contexts where the language of negotiation and decision-making is sought. It is commonly used as a type of competition where the ultimate response or best product is desired. In the language learning environment, it is a good tool for encouraging and motivating students to put their best foot forward (Rodriguez & Barone, 2009).

Students will work together to create a local advertising campaign to sell a particular product in an APEC economy. The groups will need to decide what product they want to sell and how they might go about selling it. Students are encouraged to be as creative as possible, using current advertising media; for example, print ad, broadcast commercial, or Internet ad. Students need to reach consensus whenever possible.

Content Objectives

• To negotiate within a group about what product to advertise. The product must be a soda, a food, or a game.  Using environmentally friendly products should be encouraged.
• To create a presentation of the product (live or recorded) for your class.

Language Objectives

• To practice persuasive vocabulary and speech for your commercial/sales pitch
• To become aware of pronunciation skills within the context of a real-world presentation

Activity

1. Divide the class into groups of three.
2. Let them know they will be developing a 30-second sales pitch for a product that would interest their age bracket. The item must be a food, beverage, or game. If students can record a commercial, encourage them to do so.
3. Hold a quick discussion about their favorite products and how they are sold. Make sure to talk about print ads, commercial ads, Internet ads, and others.
4. Brainstorm persuasive vocabulary: must buy, act now, limited offer, and so on.
5. Have each group present their product to the class.
6. Create an anonymous voting system so that classmates can vote for which product they would buy. (They cannot vote for their own!)

Materials

Students need to decide what they need to make a grand sales pitch. They are encouraged to bring in their own props.

Category

Team Building: making learning fun, presentation skills, working in teams, negotiating

Learning Theme

Learning to live together; learning to work together

Resource

Rodriguez, K. S., & Barone, S. M. (2009). The apprentice. In M. S. Andrade (Ed.),Language games: Innovative activities for teaching English (pp. 249-254). Alexandria, VA: Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, Inc. (TESOL).

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