Free ESOL Flashcards for Pre-Entry Beginners
ESOL flashcards for learning useful everyday English words.
Printable picture flashcards for everyday English
These free picture cards help adult Pre-Entry learners recognise, remember and say useful English words. As a result, clear pictures support beginners who are developing early reading skills. For example, topics include the alphabet, numbers, days, months, weather, food, colours, shapes, family, jobs, transport, emotions and telling the time. Therefore, learners can choose familiar vocabulary and practise at a comfortable pace.
Each picture opens a printable PDF flashcard pack in a separate tab. First, choose a topic and look carefully at each picture. Next, say the word aloud and repeat it two or three times. Then, cover the word and try to remember it from the picture. Finally, mix the cards and practise them again in a different order. Consequently, short, regular practice can help new vocabulary move into long-term memory.
How to use these ESOL flashcards
- First, choose one topic with five to ten useful words.
- Next, look at each picture and listen to a teacher or helper say the word.
- Then, repeat the word clearly and point to the matching picture.
- After that, hide the word and recall it from the image.
- Finally, use one or two new words in a short spoken sentence.
Tips for teachers, volunteers and families
Introduce only a few cards at first, especially for learners who are new to English. Furthermore, model each word slowly, check meaning with the picture and encourage the learner to repeat it. In addition, use simple games such as matching, sorting, finding a missing card or grouping words by topic. However, avoid introducing too many new words in one session. Afterwards, revisit difficult cards later and praise progress. For more beginner practice, visit the British Council beginner vocabulary activities.
Also, the printable PDFs open separately so learners can keep this page available. You can also combine the cards with our Pre-Entry reading and writing activities and ESOL listening practice. Together, these free resources support vocabulary, pronunciation, listening, reading and speaking.
