Maitre D’ Game for Multi Language Learners

As a classroom teacher, one of my favorite games was Responsive Classroom‘s Maitre d’. The interactive game, which takes 7-10 minutes, is the best way I found to engage kids, get them moving and sharing, while addressing core content. It turns out that the game is one of the most valuable ways to work with multi language learners, boosting speaking, listening, and vocabulary skills as students role-play restaurant scenarios. Perfect for building confidence in a real-world context! Maitre d’ is the way.

Here’s how to play:

1. Set the Learning Goal
   Start by explaining the purpose of the activity. For example:
   “We are going to form different groups to share ideas about healthy living.”
2. Establish Expectations
   Remind students of the importance of respect, and friendliness when forming groups. Encourage appropriate skills when speaking to others in terms of eye contact, and boundaries.
   Always model appropriate behavior for moving around safely.
3. Form the First Groups
   Announce the first grouping as “Table for Two.” Students pair up (or form one group of three if needed) and find a partner quickly. Since ESL groups are often smaller than a regular ed class, repeat party of 2 as many times as needed and time permits.
4. Pose the First Discussion Question
   Ask a question to guide the discussion, such as:
   “Name something you learned about fossils?”
   Give students 1–2 minutes to discuss, with a 15-second warning before time is up. Highlight positive behaviors you observe during this time.
5. Create New Groupings
   Call out “Table for Two” again (or “table of three” should there be enough kids playing) and have students form new groups. Provide the same question or introduce a new one.
6. Wrap Up the Activity
   Bring the class back together and invite a few volunteers to share highlights from their group conversations. This helps extend the learning and reinforces key points discussed.

Invest in a chime:

While the game doesn’t require any physical tools, a chime is a game changer for classroom management, overall. A quick ding is awesome for transitions, highly effective in all kinds of situations, but especially with Maitre d’.

Have fun!

xo Ms. Martha