Blocks of wonders: a verbal voyage to enhance public speaking skill / Jacqueline Susan Rijeng ... [et al.]

Public Speaking Anxiety (PSA) is one of the major concerns that often hampers students’ performance and acquisition of the English language. It occurs more frequently in output-based activities, where students get apprehensive and may experience fear, leading to an increased level of anxiety when speaking in front of others (Grieve, et. al., 2021). To eliminate anxiety, the Blocks of Wonders: A Verbal Voyage is introduced to enhance public speaking skill. By having a fresh take on the classic stack-crashing game, the revitalized block-stacking experience is aimed at boosting public speaking skills in a captivating and enjoyable manner. This game set comprises 45 wooden blocks imprinted with speaking tasks, providing players with the opportunity to not only build towering structures but also hone their public speaking abilities. What sets this game apart is its seamless integration of interactive, creative, and competitive elements, all within a single gameplay. The interesting questions featured on each block’s surface give players the opportunity to elevate their language proficiency and adaptability. Furthermore, the specific vocabulary featured on the blocks has been meticulously chosen from the renowned Oxford 3000 Wordlist, comprising words that are considered vital in English language acquisition due to their significance and practicality. This variation adds value to the novelty of the game, encouraging players to reveal interesting facts about themselves or engage in intellectual sharing. Moreover, it can also serve as a versatile tool for ice-breaking sessions, team-building activities and complementing English learning initiatives. Having a game that is exploratory and experiential in nature does not only provide challenge but also amplifies a sense of community, creating a vibrant atmosphere among players. It is a surefire way to make public speaking practice more memorable and entertaining!