LANGUAGE GAMES IN TEACHING ENGLISH

In the article the theoretical underpinnings of efficiency of using language games in teaching English are shown. The complex of theoretical methods was drawn in the research: comparative analysis of methodical sources with the purpose of determination the state of developed research problem; analysis of didactical sources as for the integration language games to the process of teaching English; systematization of different researchers’ views as for classification the language games. The basic results of the article are determination the definition of "game", the advantages of using games, the study of didactic potential of language games in English lessons, description of the main forms, types, functions of language games, their classification. It is shown the game is one of the fundamental learning activities. The games should be regarded as supplementary activities. When choosing a game, a teacher should be careful to find an appropriate one for the class in terms of language and type of participation. Once the game has begun, the teacher should not interrupt to correct mistakes in language use. The teacher should not compel an individual to participate. Games are serious devices by which we can create an interesting activity. Games have following characteristics: they are based on a learning objective, give the player control over his own destiny, include doable challenges, they are fun and interesting, thus motivating, based on reality in order to intrinsically motivate the players to continue to play the game, they require interaction, must include everyone. Some game forms are mentioned: information gap, guessing games, search games, matching games, matching-up games, exchanging games, collecting games, arranging games. To use games effectively in the classroom a teacher should adhere to the following rules: the game must have a clear learning objective and purpose; the teacher should assign students to teams; be sure to explain all necessary procedures and rules clearly and slowly; be consistent; be prepared; maintain a non-threatening environment; it may be useful to have students create games. The conclusion is to determine the rules for successful usage of games in the English classes as the game is one of the most effective forms of educational process organization and in the process of foreign language teaching at all levels is has the great pedagogical value