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When we think of school or learning in general, we draw a picture of a classroom in our imagination. With a teacher standing behind a desk reading something from a book to the class, while half of them are listening and the other half are talking to their friends or flat out not paying any attention. In terms of experience we mostly remember it as dull and boring for the most part. I believe that outdoor activities are wheel breakers for students. It’s exciting, it freshens their attitude up and their will to learn will improve for that day. Of course, the activity must remain somehow academic in nature. For example, a trip to a museum would be very interesting from the perspective of the students. The teacher can insure and guide them to only use English for the day. While crossing the road they must read the signs in English. When buying the tickets, they must again use English. I believe very much experiences and memories go hand in hand. If we can attach some form of excitement and "fun" to learning, then not only will they retain the fun experience but also the academic one. Students would like variety in at least some of their classes. When you've been stuck in the same classroom for an entire year, it tends to turn sour. Specially for the younger students. A solution to the classroom experience can be to occasionally, go outdoors, even if it’s just outside the classroom, for instance the playground or somewhere where there is preferably grass for students to sit. The teacher can proceed to teach and play "Simon Says" or Even "Pictionary". Outdoor activities also help students participate actively in their own learning and live an element of local culture, which can lead to a deeper understanding about themselves and others. It doesn't only help them learn English, but it can also help them apply it in a non-classroom environment. Where they might sub-consciously feel safer. Because "we're playing a game" it can make them feel even a little bit more comfortable in their own skin, specially the shyer students. Under the right atmosphere it can be a very positive learning experience. Not only will they go home and reminisce on the fun they had in school that day, but by linking the activity to an academic outcome, they will also remember what they learnt as well. Motivation is one of the most important factors in language learning. Children who are enthusiastic about learning English are more likely to work hard. The most powerful type of motivation is when children enjoy learning and the learning experience is fun and interesting. Now of course I must address the elephant in the room. Students come to school, or are put in school to LEARN, not to have fun and play games etc... While that is the official motto from parents’ perspective or even from a curriculum coordinator holds true. The frequency of it is not. I believe variety in school can be something to look forward to. From a learner’s perspective, if that specific teacher represents some form of "fun" in their eyes they will be more eager to learn from them and more attentive in that teacher’s class. I must also note that a teacher must do an outdoor activity every chance he/she gets. We, as teachers, must consider how frequent the activities are? What topic we are teaching today? Does it apply well with an outdoor activity? It must not be too frequent. It should above all else help the learner LEARN.
