Teaching business English to adults can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to breaking the ice and getting your students to open up. Fortunately, there are many fun icebreaker activities that you can use to get your students engaged and help them feel comfortable speaking English in a business context.
Tip #1 - Two Truths and a Lie
This is a classic icebreaker that can be adapted to a business English class. Have each student introduce themselves and share two true facts about themselves and one false fact. The other students have to guess which fact is the lie.
Tip #2 - Speed Networking
Just like speed dating, speed networking involves students pairing up and having a set amount of time to ask each other questions and get to know each other. Once the time is up, the students rotate and find a new partner.
Tip #3 - The Alphabet Game
This icebreaker is great for introducing new vocabulary related to a particular industry or business sector. Have students take turns going through the alphabet, with each person coming up with a word related to the industry that starts with the next letter of the alphabet.
Tip #4 - Two Minute Debates
Divide the class into two groups and have each group debate a topic related to business or the industry they work in. Students can only speak for two minutes each, and the other group can ask questions or challenge their points.
Tip #5 - Name That Logo
This icebreaker is perfect for marketing or branding classes. Show the class different logos and have them guess which company or brand they belong to. You can make it more challenging by only showing part of the logo or covering up the company name.
Tip #6 - Story Time
Have each student share a brief story about a business experience they have had. This can be a success, a failure, or just an interesting experience. This helps students to get to know each other and also gives you a chance to evaluate their speaking and storytelling skills.
Tip #5 Find Someone Who...
Create a list of statements related to business or the industry the students work in. Have each student go around the room and find someone who fits the statement, such as "find someone who has worked for a multinational company" or "find someone who speaks two languages fluently."
Breaking the ice in a business English class can be challenging, but these fun icebreaker activities will help your students feel more comfortable and confident speaking English in a business context. Use these activities at the start of your classes to get your students engaged and ready to learn.