Cambridge Starters Speaking Activities
32 printable speaking activities · Starters (pre-A1)
Start here — 5 free samples
Free to try: open, print and play them — no account needed.
Starters speaking activities
All 32, most used first.
About Starters speaking activities
At Starters (Pre-A1), children speak in single words and very short phrases. They name objects, colors and numbers, respond to simple instructions and answer questions about themselves such as How old are you? and What's your favorite color?
Activities reflect the Starters Speaking test, which is a short, friendly one-to-one conversation around a large scene picture and object cards: children point to things, place cards on a picture and answer simple questions. Worksheets include picture scenes, card games, find-and-point tasks and question prompts using the Starters word list.
Teacher notes list the target language and model questions. Print the PDF with color pictures, or share the worksheet online through a class link with no account needed.
Teaching tips: Starters speaking activities
- Accept one-word answers at Starters; the aim is understanding and confidence, not full sentences.
- Use gestures and pointing to support instructions so children succeed from the start.
- Play the teacher role first, then let children take turns asking questions using the prompts.
- Keep speaking games short and lively, and repeat favorites often.
Questions teachers ask
What happens in the Starters Speaking test?
It is a short one-to-one conversation with an examiner based on a scene picture and object cards, followed by a few simple personal questions.
Do children need to speak in full sentences?
No. At Starters, one-word or short-phrase answers are acceptable and expected.
How can I use these activities with a large class?
Model the task with one child, then let children work in pairs or small groups with the picture while you monitor.