Don’t Say It… Describe It Game! – The Ultimate Oral Language Game 

This oral language game called Don’t Say It… Describe it has been designed to provide students with an engaging way to develop their listening, speaking and vocabulary skills in a meaningful and enjoyable context. By playing games that encourage descriptive language, turn taking and active listening, students gain essential skills that support their success in other areas such as reading, writing and everyday communication.

This game is designed to enhance oral language skills by encouraging students to:

• Think critically about how to describe words using synonyms and contextual clues.
• Expand vocabulary by discovering new words and expressions.
• Improve speaking and listening skills through interactive play.
• Develop confidence in verbal communication.
• Engage in cooperative learning and teamwork while having fun!

How to Play This Oral Language Game

This exciting oral language game is simple to play yet highly effective in developing language skills.

• Each player receives a word they must describe without using the actual word.
• Players take turns giving clues and descriptions while avoiding “banned” words.
• The rest of the group listens carefully and tries to guess the correct word!
• Award points for correct guesses and challenge students to use rich, descriptive vocabulary.

Game Variation: Adjust the difficulty level by limiting the number of clues given or introducing time challenges for added excitement!

Download for a Great Lesson Warm Up Today!

Whether you’re reinforcing vocabulary, improving listening skills, or just looking for a fun literacy warm-up, this game is a must-have! Hit download to get the Google Slides of this game!

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and a Teach Starter Collaborator.

More Oral Language Activities for the Prep Classroom

Looking for more oral language activities to include in your lessons? We have you covered…

teaching resource

Oral Language Games - Digital Activity

Boost your students' oral language skills with this fun and engaging oral language game interactive.

teaching resource

Oral Language Activity - I Spy Game

Strengthen oral language skills with this I Spy Oral Language Activity.

teaching resource

Speaking Skills Assessment Checklist

Help students take ownership of their communication skills with this speaking skills checklist.