Puzzles-and-Games-to-improve-your-English

Puzzles and Games to improve your English

It is often difficult to find fun things to do that can help you learn English. Puzzles and games to improve your English really help – but how do you know which ones are appropriate for your level?

We have many years’ experience in the field of English as a second language education. Our qualified staff know exactly what grammar and what vocabulary is needed at each level of your learning journey. We have created this resource as a service to English language learners. All these puzzles and games are 100% free, and they are graded for difficulty.

We have created puzzles and games for learners at each level, and because we are experienced professionals, you can rest assured that if you are doing a beginner level puzzle, the grammar and vocabulary you need to learn at that level is what the puzzle will help you learn and remember. This a great way to learn because you can have fun at the same time as learning new words and grammar. We hope that you enjoy this free resource and tell your friends about it.

A1 - Beginner

These puzzles and games will help you learn for the A1 or beginner English language level. The activities here cover grammar, vocabulary, and topics for your level. If you can do all the puzzles, you have the skills you need for that level. This site is a fun way to see what you know and what you need to learn. Each level is linked to the CEFR, so you can check your progress as you move through the levels.

Click here to read about what you need to learn to pass an A1 exam:

The A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the beginner level. At this stage, you are expected to understand and use basic phrases and expressions in everyday situations. Here’s a summary of the grammar, vocabulary, language functions, and topics you need to know to pass an A1 language exam:

1. Grammar

1.1 Nouns and Articles

Singular and Plural Nouns: Recognize the difference between singular (one item) and plural (more than one item) nouns.
Definite and Indefinite Articles: Use “the” for specific items (definite article) and “a/an” for non-specific items (indefinite articles).

1.2 Pronouns

Personal Pronouns: I, you, he, she, it, we, they.
Possessive Pronouns: my, your, his, her, its, our, their.

1.3 Verbs

To Be: Learn to conjugate “to be” in the present simple (I am, you are, he/she/it is, we are, they are).
To Have: Understand the conjugation of “to have” (I have, you have, he/she/it has, we have, they have).
Present Simple Tense: Use the present simple tense to talk about routines and habits (I work, you study, she plays).
Basic Regular and Irregular Verbs: Learn common verbs in their basic forms (work, go, eat, drink).
Modal Verbs: Use “can” for ability and “permission” (I can swim, Can I go?).

1.4 Adjectives

Basic Adjectives: Learn adjectives for describing people, places, and things (big, small, hot, cold, happy, sad).

1.5 Adverbs

Basic Adverbs: Learn simple adverbs of frequency (always, sometimes, never).

1.6 Prepositions

Basic Prepositions of Place: Learn prepositions to describe where things are (in, on, under, next to, between).

1.7 Conjunctions

Simple Conjunctions: Use “and” and “but” to connect simple sentences (I like apples and oranges, She is tired but happy).

2. Vocabulary

2.1 Everyday Vocabulary

Greetings and Introductions: Hello, goodbye, please, thank you, sorry.
Numbers and Prices: Numbers 1-100, basic prices (How much does it cost?).
Days, Months, and Seasons: Days of the week, months of the year, basic seasons (summer, winter).
Basic Colors: Red, blue, green, yellow, etc.
Common Objects: Learn words for everyday items (pen, book, phone, table, chair).
Family Members: Mother, father, brother, sister, etc.
Food and Drink: Basic foods (bread, milk, water, apple).
Parts of the Body: Head, arm, leg, etc.
Clothing: Shirt, pants, shoes, dress, etc.

3. Language Functions

3.1 Introducing Yourself and Others

Basic phrases to introduce yourself (My name is… I am from…).

3.2 Asking and Answering Simple Questions

Use simple question forms (What is your name? How old are you? Where do you live?).

3.3 Expressing Likes and Dislikes

Say what you like and don’t like (I like pizza, I don’t like fish).

3.4 Giving Personal Information

Share basic personal information (I am a student, I have a brother).

3.5 Describing People, Places, and Things

Use simple adjectives to describe (She is tall, The car is red).

3.6 Talking About Daily Routines

Talk about your everyday activities (I go to school, I eat breakfast).

3.7 Making Simple Requests

Use polite phrases to ask for things (Can I have…? Could you…?).

3.8 Telling the Time and Dates

Learn to tell the time and ask about the time (It’s 3 o’clock, What time is it?).

3.9 Giving Simple Directions

Use basic directions to help others find places (Go straight, Turn left).

4. Topics

4.1 Personal Information

Basic details about yourself (name, age, nationality).

4.2 Family and Friends

Simple information about your family members and friends.

4.3 Daily Life

Describe your daily routines and activities.

4.4 Free Time and Hobbies

Talk about your hobbies and what you like to do in your free time.

4.5 Shopping

Learn vocabulary and phrases for shopping, asking prices, and buying things.

4.6 Home and Living

Basic words and phrases to describe your home and rooms.

4.7 Places in Town

Learn the names of common places in a town or city (bank, park, school).

4.8 Weather

Basic weather vocabulary (sunny, rainy, hot, cold).

By mastering these elements, you’ll be well-prepared to pass your A1 CEFR language exam. Practice using simple sentences and phrases in everyday situations, and gradually build up your confidence in communicating in the new language.

A2 - Elementary

A1 English is for beginners, covering very basic words and phrases. A2 English is the next level, where you can use simple sentences to talk about everyday activities, describe things, and ask basic questions. The A2 puzzles in this section are made for learners at this level, focusing on the vocabulary, grammar, and topics needed to reach the A2 level. Practising these puzzles will help you build the skills required for A2 in the CEFR framework.

Click here to read about what you need to learn to pass an A2 exam:

To pass an A2 CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) language exam, you need to build on the basics learned at the A1 level. At this level, you should be able to handle simple, everyday communication in familiar situations. Here’s a summary of the grammar, vocabulary, language functions, and topics you need to know for the A2 level:

1. Grammar

1.1 Nouns and Articles

Countable and Uncountable Nouns: Understand the difference between countable (e.g., apples) and uncountable nouns (e.g., water).
Quantifiers: Use words like “some,” “any,” “a lot of,” “many,” and “much” to talk about quantities.

1.2 Pronouns

Possessive Pronouns: mine, yours, his, hers, ours, theirs.
Demonstrative Pronouns: this, that, these, those (e.g., This is my bag. Those are your keys).
Reflexive Pronouns: myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves.

1.3 Verbs

Present Continuous Tense: Use it for actions happening now (e.g., I am eating, She is studying).
Past Simple Tense: Talk about completed actions in the past (e.g., I went to the store, He saw a movie).
Future Simple Tense with “will” and “going to”: Use “will” for decisions made at the moment and “going to” for planned actions (e.g., I will call you later, I am going to visit my aunt next week).
Modal Verbs: “Can,” “could,” “must,” “should,” “have to,” “might” (e.g., You should eat more vegetables, You have to finish your homework).
Imperatives: Give simple commands and instructions (e.g., Open the window, Please sit down).

1.4 Adjectives and Adverbs

Comparative and Superlative Adjectives: Compare things and express the highest degree (e.g., bigger, the biggest, more interesting, the most interesting).
Adverbs of Frequency: always, usually, often, sometimes, rarely, never (e.g., She often reads books, They never eat out).

1.5 Prepositions

Prepositions of Time: at, in, on (e.g., at 5 pm, in June, on Monday).
Prepositions of Movement: to, from, into, out of, up, down (e.g., He went to the park, She came out of the room).

1.6 Conjunctions

Simple Conjunctions: Use “because” and “so” to explain reasons and results (e.g., I stayed home because it was raining, She is happy so she is smiling).

2. Vocabulary

2.1 Everyday Vocabulary

Common Adjectives: friendly, expensive, boring, interesting, difficult, easy.
Places and Directions: Learn more places (museum, library, airport) and how to give directions (go straight, turn right, go past the bank).
Food and Drink: Broaden your vocabulary with more food items (pasta, juice, salad).
Personal Items and Clothing: More vocabulary for items you use or wear (wallet, sunglasses, gloves, jacket).
Hobbies and Leisure Activities: Learn vocabulary related to common hobbies (reading, playing sports, watching movies).

2.2 Everyday Situations

Travel and Transport: Vocabulary for booking tickets, asking for directions, and describing travel plans (bus, train, airport, platform, ticket).
Health and Fitness: Basic vocabulary for health and parts of the body (doctor, hospital, headache, exercise, healthy, fit).
Shopping and Services: Vocabulary for shopping (cash, credit card, discount, receipt) and using services like a post office or bank.

2.3 Describing People and Places

Physical Appearance and Personality: Words to describe how people look (tall, short, young, old) and their personalities (kind, funny, serious, lazy).

3. Language Functions

3.1 Giving and Asking for Personal Information

Share more detailed personal information, like your job, hobbies, and where you live.

3.2 Making Simple Plans and Arrangements

Use phrases to make plans with friends (Let’s meet at 6 pm, Shall we go to the cinema?).

3.3 Describing Past Events

Talk about your experiences and what you did yesterday or last week (I visited my grandparents last weekend, We went to the beach).

3.4 Expressing Preferences, Likes, and Dislikes

Use more complex structures to talk about your preferences (I would rather eat pizza than pasta, I don’t mind watching that movie).

3.5 Giving Simple Opinions and Reasons

Say what you think about something and explain why (I think this book is interesting because it has a great story).

3.6 Making and Responding to Invitations and Suggestions

Invite someone or respond to invitations (Would you like to come to my party? Yes, I’d love to. No, thank you, I’m busy).

3.7 Asking for and Giving Directions

Use specific phrases to ask for and give directions (Can you tell me how to get to the station? Turn left at the next corner).

3.8 Ordering Food and Drinks in a Restaurant

Practice phrases for ordering (Can I have the menu, please? I would like a coffee).

3.9 Describing Daily Routines and Habits

Use the present simple and adverbs of frequency to describe what you do regularly (I usually go to bed at 10 pm, We often eat out on weekends).

4. Topics

4.1 Personal Information and Family

Talk more in detail about yourself, your family, and your relationships.

4.2 Daily Life and Routines

Describe your day-to-day activities in more detail, including your work or studies.

4.3 Free Time and Leisure

Discuss what you do in your free time, including hobbies and sports.

4.4 Travel and Holidays

Share your travel experiences, plans for vacations, and describe different places.

4.5 Shopping

Talk about your shopping habits, favorite stores, and buying experiences.

4.6 Health and Well-being

Discuss your health, exercise routine, and any visits to the doctor or dentist.

4.7 Weather and Seasons

Talk about the weather in different seasons and how it affects your activities.

4.8 Work and Study

Give simple information about your job or studies, including daily tasks and future aspirations.

By mastering these grammar points, vocabulary, language functions, and topics, you’ll be well-prepared to pass your A2 CEFR language exam. The key is to practice speaking and writing in everyday situations, using simple but clear language to communicate effectively.

B1 - Intermediate

A2 English is for basic users, allowing for short conversations and descriptions of simple topics. B1 English is the next step, where you start discussing interests, explaining ideas, and understanding more complex sentences. The B1 puzzles in this section are designed for learners at this level, covering the vocabulary, grammar, and skills needed to reach B1 in the CEFR. Practising these puzzles helps build the language tools necessary to confidently communicate at the B1 level.

Click here to read about what you need to learn to pass a B1 exam:

To pass a B1 CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) language exam, you need to be able to handle everyday situations more confidently and express yourself on a range of familiar topics. You should be able to describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions, and give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. Here’s a summary of the grammar, vocabulary, language functions, and topics you need to know for the B1 level:

1. Grammar

1.1 Tenses

Present Simple and Continuous: Talk about routines, habits, and actions happening right now or around the current time (e.g., I study every day; I am reading a book).
Past Simple and Continuous: Use for actions completed in the past and for describing past actions in progress (e.g., I went to the park yesterday; I was watching TV when she called).
Present Perfect Simple: Talk about experiences, actions that have happened at an unspecified time, and actions that started in the past and continue to the present (e.g., I have visited Paris; I have lived here for three years).
Present Perfect Continuous: Describe actions that started in the past and are still continuing, focusing on the duration (e.g., I have been studying for two hours).
Future Forms: Use “will” for spontaneous decisions and predictions, “going to” for plans and intentions, and present continuous for arrangements (e.g., I will call you later; I am going to start a new job; I am meeting her tomorrow).

1.2 Modals and Semi-modals

Modal Verbs: Learn modals for ability, permission, advice, obligation, and possibility (e.g., can, could, must, should, have to, might, may, ought to, need to).
Modals in the Past: Learn the past forms of modals (e.g., could have, should have, would have).

1.3 Conditionals

First Conditional: Use for possible future situations (e.g., If it rains, I will stay home).
Second Conditional: Use for hypothetical or unlikely situations (e.g., If I had a car, I would drive to work).

1.4 Passive Voice

Present and Past Simple Passives: Use passive voice to focus on the action or the object rather than the subject (e.g., The cake was eaten by John; English is spoken here).

1.5 Reported Speech

Statements and Questions: Learn to report what someone said (e.g., She said she was tired; He asked if I was coming).

1.6 Relative Clauses

Defining and Non-defining Clauses: Use clauses to give additional information about a noun (e.g., The book that you gave me is great; My brother, who lives in London, is visiting us).

1.7 Gerunds and Infinitives

Gerund (verb + ing) and Infinitive (to + verb): Learn the difference and use them correctly (e.g., I enjoy swimming; I want to go home).

2. Vocabulary

2.1 Everyday Life and Routine

Expanded Vocabulary: Learn more words related to daily activities, chores, and routines (e.g., household tasks like vacuuming, ironing, and cooking).

2.2 Work and Study

Job and Education Vocabulary: Expand your vocabulary about different professions, workplaces, and educational systems (e.g., manager, internship, degree, assignment).

2.3 Travel and Holidays

Travel-related Vocabulary: Learn vocabulary related to booking travel, describing trips, and talking about cultures and experiences (e.g., itinerary, accommodation, sightseeing, customs).

2.4 Health and Fitness

Health Vocabulary: Know more about body parts, illnesses, treatments, and healthy lifestyles (e.g., fever, prescription, surgery, nutrition).

2.5 Technology and Media

Technology Vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with words related to modern technology, internet use, and social media (e.g., smartphone, app, website, upload, download).

2.6 Environment and Nature

Environmental Vocabulary: Learn words related to nature, wildlife, and environmental issues (e.g., pollution, recycling, endangered species, ecosystem).

2.7 Describing People and Places

Detailed Descriptions: Use a wider range of adjectives and adverbs to describe appearance, personality, and locations (e.g., confident, shy, crowded, spacious).

3. Language Functions

3.1 Giving Opinions and Reasons

Expressing Opinions: Share your thoughts and explain your reasoning (e.g., I think that…, In my opinion, it’s because…).

3.2 Agreeing and Disagreeing Politely

Agree/Disagree: Learn phrases for agreeing and disagreeing in discussions (e.g., I agree with you, I see your point, but…, I’m not sure about that).

3.3 Making Suggestions and Recommendations

Suggestions and Advice: Use phrases to make suggestions and give advice (e.g., How about…? Why don’t you…? You should…).

3.4 Describing Experiences and Events

Narrative Skills: Describe personal experiences, events, or stories in detail (e.g., Last year, I went to…, I remember when…).

3.5 Expressing Hopes, Dreams, and Ambitions

Future Plans and Desires: Talk about what you hope to achieve and your future plans (e.g., I hope to become…, I would like to travel to…).

3.6 Apologizing and Making Excuses

Apologies: Learn how to apologize and explain reasons for mistakes or delays (e.g., I’m sorry for…, I apologize for…, I didn’t mean to…).

3.7 Asking for and Giving Permission

Requests and Permission: Use polite phrases to ask for and grant permission (e.g., Could I…? May I…? Yes, you can. No, I’m afraid you can’t).

3.8 Explaining and Clarifying

Explanations: Learn how to explain something more clearly or ask for clarification (e.g., What I mean is…, Could you explain that again?).

3.9 Discussing Pros and Cons

Advantages and Disadvantages: Learn how to discuss the pros and cons of different options or decisions (e.g., On the one hand…, On the other hand…).

4. Topics

4.1 Personal Life and Relationships

Deeper Discussions: Talk about friendships, family relationships, and personal values in more detail.

4.2 Work and Career

Career Choices: Discuss job satisfaction, career goals, and experiences at work.

4.3 Education and Learning

Learning Experiences: Talk about past education, favorite subjects, and plans for further study.

4.4 Travel and Culture

Cultural Differences: Discuss travel experiences, compare cultures, and talk about traditions.

4.5 Health and Lifestyle

Healthy Living: Discuss ways to stay healthy, share opinions on diet and exercise, and talk about personal health.

4.6 Technology and Society

Impact of Technology: Discuss how technology affects our lives, both positively and negatively.

4.7 Environment and Sustainability

Environmental Issues: Talk about pollution, climate change, and what individuals can do to help.

4.8 Hobbies and Free Time

Detailed Descriptions: Discuss hobbies in more detail, explain why you like certain activities, and talk about new skills you want to learn.

By mastering these grammar points, vocabulary, language functions, and topics, you’ll be well-prepared to pass your B1 CEFR language exam. Practice speaking and writing about these topics, using more complex sentences and a wider range of vocabulary to express your thoughts clearly and confidently.

B2 - Upper-Intermediate

Coming Soon – B1 English is for intermediate learners who can talk about familiar topics, give opinions, and handle daily conversations. B2 English is the next level, where learners can discuss complex topics, understand detailed texts, and express themselves fluently in many situations. The B2 puzzles in this section are designed to help learners reach the B2 CEFR level. At this level, learners can study or work in English-speaking countries, using English confidently in educational or professional settings.at the B1 level.

Click here to read about what you need to learn to pass a B2 exam:

Passing a B2 English exam according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) requires strong intermediate language skills across all core areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. At the B2 level, learners are expected to communicate with fluency and spontaneity in a wide variety of situations, handle complex topics, and demonstrate clear understanding of main ideas, specific details, and nuances. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements for each skill and the overall abilities needed to succeed at the B2 level.

1. Speaking Skills

In a B2 exam, the speaking component assesses whether learners can effectively communicate in both casual and formal situations, presenting ideas clearly, and interacting fluently. To pass this part of the exam, candidates should be able to:

Express ideas fluently and without excessive hesitation on familiar topics, as well as broader themes like current events, cultural issues, and general opinions. A B2 speaker should be able to hold conversations with native speakers without causing undue strain on the listener.
Provide detailed information and elaborate on topics when asked, using a range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately.
Develop arguments and opinions with supporting evidence. For instance, they should be able to discuss advantages and disadvantages, compare ideas, and present persuasive opinions.
Interact effectively in discussions, responding to questions, asking for clarification if needed, and supporting the flow of the conversation.
Use more complex grammatical structures and vary sentence forms, though minor errors are permissible as long as they do not impede communication.

A typical B2 speaking test might include tasks such as describing a familiar or unfamiliar topic, discussing a scenario, or responding to questions about personal opinions on different subjects.

2. Listening Skills

In the listening section of a B2 exam, learners need to understand a variety of spoken English, even with some degree of complexity. This means they should be able to:

Understand the main ideas in discussions on familiar topics and complex topics they may encounter in daily life, studies, or work. For example, they should be able to follow conversations, interviews, or news reports in standard speech.
Identify specific details and key points in spoken material, such as understanding an instructional video, a lecture, or a radio broadcast. This requires careful listening and the ability to distinguish important information from general context.
Recognise implied meanings and interpret tone, intention, and attitude. For instance, learners should pick up on cues that indicate formality, sarcasm, or enthusiasm in the speaker’s voice.
Comprehend a variety of accents within standard English-speaking countries, including British, American, and others commonly encountered in media or business.

A B2 listening exam typically includes a mix of dialogues and monologues, as well as both short and longer extracts. Candidates might listen to a podcast, a conversation, or a report and answer questions based on the content.

3. Reading Skills

The reading section of a B2 English exam assesses comprehension of a wide range of texts, from everyday materials to more in-depth articles and reports. To meet the requirements, candidates must demonstrate the following:

Understand the main ideas and details of texts on both familiar and unfamiliar subjects. They should be able to grasp key points in a newspaper article, a personal email, or an essay.
Interpret viewpoints and arguments, recognising supporting details and drawing conclusions from the text. B2 readers should be able to understand texts that explore opinions, comparisons, or critiques.
Handle a variety of text types, such as informative, narrative, and descriptive passages. The exam may include advertisements, brochures, online articles, and literary excerpts.
Understand moderately complex vocabulary and phrases, as well as common idiomatic expressions or figurative language in context.

Typical B2 reading tasks might include answering multiple-choice questions, matching headings to paragraphs, and filling in gaps based on understanding.

4. Writing Skills

Writing at the B2 level requires clear, structured, and coherent expression of ideas. Exam requirements include:

Writing various text types, such as formal and informal emails, essays, reviews, and reports, with appropriate tone and register.
Organising ideas logically and coherently, structuring sentences into paragraphs and connecting ideas smoothly. Paragraphs should have clear topic sentences, with supporting details that make the main ideas easy to follow.
Developing an argument or narrative with supporting points, especially in longer written responses like essays. B2 writers should be able to present an argument with reasons and examples, or describe events in a coherent and chronological order.
Using a range of vocabulary and expressions, particularly when describing experiences, explaining viewpoints, or discussing pros and cons.
Demonstrating control over grammar and sentence structure, using complex sentences where appropriate. Minor mistakes in spelling or grammar are acceptable if they don’t hinder understanding.

In a B2 writing exam, candidates may be asked to write a formal letter, give their opinion on a topic, or write a descriptive or narrative text.

5. Vocabulary Requirements

A broad vocabulary is essential at the B2 level. Learners should have command over:

General vocabulary relevant to daily life, as well as words related to education, work, hobbies, and travel.
Topic-specific vocabulary, covering a range of subjects like health, technology, social issues, and culture.
Idiomatic expressions and collocations that are commonly used in spoken and written English.
Synonyms and antonyms to vary expression and demonstrate fluency. For example, a B2 student might use “respond” instead of “answer” or “challenging” instead of “difficult.”

6. Grammar and Language Structures

B2 learners are expected to show confidence in using various grammatical structures:

Complex sentences with dependent clauses, including conditionals (e.g., “If I had more time, I would…”) and relative clauses (e.g., “The book that I read…”).
Passive voice to discuss processes and general facts (e.g., “The project was completed by the team last week”).
Reported speech to relay information heard from others (e.g., “She said that she would come to the meeting”).
Verb tenses accurately, including past perfect (e.g., “I had never tried it before”) and future forms to discuss plans and predictions.
Modals and modal perfects (e.g., “should have,” “could have”) to express advice, possibility, or regret.

7. Overall Communication Abilities

At B2, learners should be able to:

Engage in spontaneous and sustained communication on familiar and abstract topics, often with native speakers.
Express opinions and ideas effectively, and respond to counterpoints or questions with confidence.
Adapt language and tone depending on context, such as using more formal language in professional settings or simplifying language for clarity.

Passing the B2 Exam

Successfully passing a B2 exam means demonstrating a solid command of intermediate English, with enough flexibility and range to communicate in a variety of real-life situations. It shows that the learner can function effectively in English-speaking environments, such as study or work abroad, where more than just basic conversation is required. The B2 level marks a significant step toward advanced proficiency and reflects readiness for more complex English interactions.