Today I posted a question on a Facebook group for VIPKID Online Teachers. The question I posed was, “What is one prop that you own that you never use?” I was shocked that there were so many people who said that their puppets.
I use puppets in online teaching all of the time, particularly with my young ESL learners, not very often with my science students. I teach English to all age groups, from 4 to 12 years of age (VIPKID Levels 1 – 6). Puppets are a versatile and engaging tool in the online ESL classroom, offering numerous benefits for both teachers and students. They can enhance communication, foster a positive learning environment, and stimulate creativity.
Why Use Puppets in Online Teaching?
- Enhanced Communication: Puppets can serve as intermediaries between the teacher and students, making it easier for learners to express themselves and participate in discussions. ERIC
- Positive Classroom Climate: Incorporating puppets can create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, reducing anxiety and encouraging student engagement. ERIC
- Creativity and Imagination: Using puppets encourages students to use their imagination, leading to more creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
How to Use Puppets Effectively
I have two animals, an owl and a moose that I use in my classroom. My puppet is an owl! He came from Ikea and was very inexpensive. I like nature, science and the outdoors so an owl seems like a natural choice for me. I also have a stuffed moose that occasionally makes an appearance, a fitting choice since I am Canadian.
- Repetition – When teaching new words, or new language structures to ESL learners, repetition is important. We repeat new words and language structures three or more times with learners. I can vary the pitch and speed of my voice, but I find that even with this, learners often need encouragement to repeat a sentence structure or word three times. So, if I say it twice, then Owl will appear and say it once.
- Conversations – I talk to Owl all of the time. I ask Owl questions “How are you today?” and then Owl will answer, “I’m happy. How are you?”. When Owl asks the question, he turns and looks at the student to ask them.
- Shy or Reluctant Learners – Owl comes in handy especially for trial classes who have never met a foreign teacher before. If I have a shy learner, then Owl will often fly onto the screen and become the teacher. Sometimes learners are a whole lot happier to talk to Owl than to me.
- Distracted, Busy, Young Learners – Sometimes my PreVIP (Level 1s) or my young Level 2s need a bit of a break. Sometimes the appearance of Owl, or an animal face mask can be just enough to peak their interest in me and my classroom.
Not Comfortable Using Your Puppet Yet? Use your student no show time to teach a lesson with your puppet. It is great practice!
Alternative Puppet Ideas
For those seeking more portable options, consider:
- Finger Puppets: Small and easy to transport, finger puppets can be crafted from various materials and used effectively in online settings.
- Stick Puppets: Simple to make using paper and sticks, these puppets are lightweight and travel-friendly.
For a visual guide on creating your own stick puppets, check out this tutorial:
DIY Puppet Resources
- Craft Tutorials: Explore online tutorials for making various types of puppets, such as sock puppets and paper puppets.
- Printable Face Masks: Create character masks that can function as puppets, offering a flat and easily stored alternative. This website has a wide variety of printable face masks. Print the full-colour version on card stock, or print the black and white version and enlist your child or neighbour to colour it.
Your Ideas
How do you incorporate puppets into your online classroom? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
Leave a Reply