Quick Guide
- Keywords: Engagement, peer-learning, scaffolding, gamification, Harry Potter
- Learner English level: Beginners and false beginners
- Learner maturity: High school (part-time night school)
- Preparation time: Less than an hour
- Activity time: Flexible (across multiple class sessions)
- Materials: Shareable document (e.g., Google Sheets) with points table (see Appendix)
In this activity, groups are led by a “Mini-Teacher” to promote peer learning and foster autonomy. The groups are named after Hogwarts houses from Harry Potter (Rowling, 1997). They compete using a point system, earning points for desirable behaviors (e.g., presenting ideas) and losing points for undesirable ones (e.g., being late). The system aims to foster autonomy among higher proficiency students while providing scaffolding for lower proficiency students.
Preparation
Step 1: Create a spreadsheet that tracks group points and distribute it via Google Classroom. Include four rows (one for each of the ‘house’ names) and three columns labeled “Points so far”, “Today’s points” and “Total Points” (see Appendix).
Procedure
Step 1: Announce that in future classes there will be group-work led by Mini-Teachers (these will be students who have responsibility to support other students during class).
Step 2: Ask if there are students who want to be Mini-Teachers. If there are not enough volunteers, nominate students who have shown strong leadership or communication skills in past activities. Tell students they are free to decline the role if they do not feel comfortable.
Step 3: To reduce anxiety, meet with Mini-Teachers before the next class to discuss their role. Explain that their responsibilities include distributing materials and helping their peers understand the instructions or language points. For example, they will help other members locate the answers in reading passages or write scripts for output activities. Explain that you will check in with them after each class to address any concerns or questions they may have, and that they can come to you at any time during an activity if they need help.
Step 4: When class begins, ask students to form small groups of four to five students. Assign one Mini-Teacher per group. If possible, ensure that each group has a balance of English proficiency levels.
Step 5: Have each group choose one of the four Hogwarts house names they want to represent. Ask them to do rock-paper-scissors when two or more groups prefer one house.
Step 6: Explain that, throughout each lesson, you will add or deduct points to groups based on group behavior. Remind students of the criteria for positive and negative behaviors in class, which should have been discussed and agreed at the beginning of the year. For example, contributing ideas in class earns points, whereas inappropriate use of electronic devices results in point deductions. These rules may vary depending on your classroom context.
Step 7: Project the spreadsheet on the screen so that students can stay aware of their current points and group standings.
Step 8: During each class, monitor and support Mini-Teachers as they assist their groups, and award/deduct points, as agreed.
Step 9: Display the updated spreadsheet at the end of each class so that students can see the rankings of all houses.
Step 10: Encourage students to reflect on their performance using this visual feedback, which promotes motivation and friendly competition for the next class. Give each group a few minutes to discuss how they contributed and what they can improve.
Conclusion
Use this activity not only to support language development, but also to promote student engagement, a sense of belonging, and ownership of learning. A simple point system and peer-led structure can make classes more collaborative and enjoyable. In contexts where student motivation is low, such motivational tools offer a practical way to encourage participation, reduce classroom anxiety, and help students feel more connected to their learning community.
Reference
Rowling, J. K. (1997). Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone. Bloomsbury.
Appendix
The appendix is available below:
