How Playing Video Games Can Improve Our English (With Practical Tips for Parents!)

Hello everyone! I am Miss Krittika, an English Teacher at Lil’ but Mighty! For some of us, video games like Super Mario and Animal Crossing are a part of our everyday lives as we play these games in our spare time or as a form of relaxation. What if I tell you that you can actually improve your English skills through playing such games? Yes, you read that right! In this post, I will be sharing with you how we can uncover the countless opportunities video games can provide us with. Now, what can be more exhilarating than boosting your English skills while playing an exciting game? Buckle up, kids, because this is going to be one fun ride. On your mark, get set, go!

I know that video games are often frowned upon and are seen as a waste of time but there are several benefits of playing them, especially in terms of helping children like yourselves to improve your communication, reading and analytical skills. Let’s take a closer look at each of these benefits:

Video Games Can Improve Communication Skills:

Communication skills include being able to listen attentively and speak clearly. Such skills are not only important for you to have in order to ace the Listening Comprehension and Oral Communication papers but also when you need to go for interviews or present in front of an audience. Playing video games with other people can also be helpful in building social skills such as cooperating with others.

Games that promote this particular skill include popular multiplayer mission game, Minecraft and Overcooked. In these games, you are required to listen to your fellow teammates and respond accordingly in order to slay the dragon or to simply beat your opponent. Communication is key here and how specific you are with your instruction can determine your team’s success. Without communication, the task or mission at hand will not be completed. For instance, telling your teammate to “put out the fire” or to “dodge” are all important commands! As you talk about the game and discuss strategies with the other players, you are also learning about how to work in a team while improving your conversation skills.

Hence, by playing multiplayer games, you are honing your communication skills that can help you converse better in real life as well as give you the confidence required for the listening and speaking sections of your English paper. Useful, am I right? 😉

Tip for parents:
Join your child in the game! Demonstrate how to give clear instructions and ask your child to be specific and clear when working with you in a team! Don’t forget to give your child a high five when victory is achieved!