Looking for a fun and effective way to practise the present simple? This free ESL board game helps students review present simple questions and answers while building confidence and fluency. It’s ideal for elementary-level learners and works well as a warmer, filler, or main practice activity.
The game is designed to get students using the present simple naturally in conversation, not just in isolated sentences. By turning grammar practice into a group competition, it keeps students engaged and encourages real communication.
Activity Overview
- Level: Elementary / Pre-intermediate
- Target language: Present simple (questions and short answers)
- Time: 20–30 minutes
- Group size: 3–4 students
What you need
- A copy of the board game for each group (download here)
- One counter per player
- One dice per group
How to play
- Divide the class into groups of three or four.
- Give each group a board game, dice, and one counter per student.
- Players place their counters on START and throw the dice to decide who goes first.
- Player A throws the dice and moves forward that number of spaces.
- Player B asks the question on the square where Player A lands. Player A answers using the correct present simple form.
- If the group agrees the answer is correct, Player A stays on the square. If not, they return to their previous position.
- Encourage students to ask follow-up questions or continue the conversation briefly to build fluency.
- Play continues in turns. The first student to reach FINISH wins.
Why use this activity?
This board game turns grammar practice into a fun, communicative activity. Students practise speaking in a low-pressure environment and build confidence using the present simple in context. It’s especially useful for practicing personal information questions, daily routines, and short answers – all common elements in beginner-level ESL courses.
Related grammar links
- Present simple guide – Learn how to form and use the present simple for habits, routines, and facts.
