Realia are objects or materials from real life that are used in the classroom to illustrate a concept or a vocabulary item. For example, a teacher can use a real apple to teach the word “apple” or a real map to teach directions. Realia can help learners to connect the language they are learning with their own experiences and contexts and make the learning more meaningful and memorable.
Realia can be used for various purposes and activities in the classroom. For example, realia can be used to:
- Introduce a topic or a theme. For example, a teacher can bring some items related to travel, such as a passport, a suitcase, a ticket, etc., to introduce a lesson about travel vocabulary or grammar.
- Elicit or practice vocabulary. For example, a teacher can use real fruits and vegetables to elicit or practice the names of different foods or use real clothes to elicit or practice the names of different clothing items.
- Stimulate speaking or writing. For example, a teacher can use real photos or postcards to stimulate learners to describe what they see or write a message to someone.
- Demonstrate grammar or functions. For example, a teacher can use real coins or bills to demonstrate how to ask for and give prices or use real invitations or cards to demonstrate how to invite someone or thank someone.