Do As I Say
Operations, Procedures, and Rituals for Language Acquisition
by: Gayle Nelson,Thomas Winters and Raymond Clark
Level: Beginner to intermediate, All ages

Price: $21.00 ISBN: 086647-159-6 978-0-84447-159-6 Table of Contents Introduction

Do As I Say was originally published in 1980 as ESL Operations. This edition is completely re-designed as a photocopyable teacher resource, with many new activities.

The basic idea is quite simple. Each activity is based on a highly predictable series of steps, called a Sequence. There are three types: Operations, Procedures, and Rituals.

* An Operation involves using a tool or a piece of equipment or a device such as an ATM. The instructional language that accompanies the use of the device is the basis for the students' language practice.
* A Procedure typically involves making or doing something, such as making a cup of tea or sewing on a button.
* A Ritual is a formulaic dialogue such as a greeting, introduction or apology.
Each sequence typically includes eight lines of about eight words. The usual procedure involves a pair of students. One student gives a command (says) and the other follows it (does).

They also ask and answer questions:
* What are you doing? (present progressive)
* What are you going to do? (future)
* What did you do? (past)

With a little imagination, the students can also ask:
* What is she going to do?
* What was she doing when I told her to stop?
* What were you going to do when I said "wait?"

The sequences require physical activity and active, responsive language use. The students are energized as they learn by doing.

* Use them one-a-day or as the need arises, and have fun with
* using a calculator
* making popcorn
* playing bingo
* ordering a pizza
* looking up a word
* wiring money
* folding origami
* sending an email
* setting up a chess board
* using a laundromat
* and 65 others