Total Physical Response Strategy for Vocabulary Words

I have had the great opportunity of being able to work with several ELL teachers who have pushed in my class to co-teach. One technique I have used with English Language Learners for learning vocabulary words is Total Physical Response.  The best part?  It works for ALL students!

What is Total Physical Response?

Total Physical Response (TPR) is a strategy or method of teaching language or vocabulary concepts to students using physical movement to react to verbal input.

Why Use Total Physical Response?

Total Physical Response mimics the way students learn their first language as infants, so, it is non-threatening.  It lowers students inhibitions and stress levels.  Having all students participate makes the English Language Learners not feel singled out.

How can teachers use Total Physical Response Strategies in the Classroom?

Step 1: Prepare. 

Select the vocabulary words that you are going to choose. I often pull words in a text we are going to read that I know students might struggle with.  This could include subject specific words such as area in math or words that are not commonly used such as accurate.

Gather any equipment, props, or pictures (often referred to as realia) that you will need to illustrate the meaning of the words you have chosen. 

The pictures above are from my word wall that I describe in this post.

Step 2: Teacher Modeling. 

Say the new vocabulary word out loud for the students. I like to have the word written or typed out on a card that will later go on our word wall. This allows the students to make a connection between the written and oral word.

As you say the word, use gestures, facial expressions, body movements, or props to define the word as you say it.

Step 3: Student Modeling. 

Have student volunteers mimic the same movements you made as you say the vocabulary word out loud. 

Step 4: Student Participation. 

Have all students mimic the movements as they say the vocabulary word out loud.  I like to use the Whole Brain Teaching method of Teach Okay for this.

You can see a video of my students learning some geometric vocabulary below:

Step 5: Repetition and Practice.

This is probably the most important step, so don't forget to use the words often! Review and practice words with students multiple times to ensure learning.  Recycle the words into future lessons so that students have repeated practice and multiple exposures to the new word.  

I often give my students bonus team points when they find the word in their reading or use it in their writing.  They LOVE finding them, and it encourages the use of their new vocabulary words.

More Total Physical Response Strategy Resources:

Here is another great video of  the Total Physical Response Strategy in action. I love the idea of having students create their own motions!

An Introduction to Total Physical Response (and four activities to try)

Have you used Total Physical Response in your classroom?  I would love to hear about it in the comments below!

Other Vocabulary Resources:

Character Trait Vocabulary Lesson

Word Walls for Upper Elementary

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