ESL vocabulary bingo is a listening exercise in disguise: students must hear, recognize and locate each word. This page gives you a ready-to-use ESL Vocabulary word list, a sample card, and a free generator that prints as many unique cards as you need.
ESL Vocabulary bingo word list
These 24 words fill a standard 5x5 card with a free center space. Use them as they are, or load them into the generator and add your own.
- apple
- bus
- chair
- door
- window
- teacher
- student
- pencil
- book
- water
- bread
- shirt
- shoes
- happy
- sad
- hot
- cold
- big
- small
- run
- eat
- sleep
- read
- write
Make ESL Vocabulary bingo cards now. The list above opens in the generator, where you can edit it, choose a grid size and print.
Open in the generatorHow to make ESL Vocabulary bingo cards
- Open the generator with the ESL Vocabulary word list already loaded using the button above.
- Change, add or remove words. Adding extra words gives each card more variety.
- Pick a grid size: 3x3 for young kids, 4x4 for quick games, or 5x5 for the classic card.
- Choose how many cards you need and how many to print per page.
- Select 'Print cards + calling list' so you also get a checklist for the caller.
Tips for playing ESL Vocabulary bingo
- Call a definition instead of the word for advanced learners.
- Pair each word with a gesture or picture.
- Have winners read their winning line aloud.
Ways to play
Four corners
Players win by marking the four corner squares, which makes a quick opening round.
Exit ticket bingo
Play one quick 3x3 round at the end of class as a review check.
Clue calling
Read a definition, problem or clue instead of the answer, so students work for every square.
Letter X
Mark both diagonals for a win, a good medium-length round.
For more pattern ideas, see our guide to bingo patterns.
Printing and setup
Print a class set on cardstock and store it in sheet protectors so you can reuse it with dry-erase markers all year. Use the 'Print cards + calling list' button so you have a checklist to track calls.
Need more help? Read how to print bingo cards at home and how many cards you need.
Frequently asked questions
How many words do I need for ESL Vocabulary bingo cards?
A 5x5 card with a free space needs 24 words, a 4x4 card needs 16, and a 3x3 card with a free space needs 8. The ESL Vocabulary list on this page has 24 words, so it fills a 5x5 card. Add more words if you want the cards to look more different from each other.
Are these ESL Vocabulary bingo cards free?
Yes. The generator and the word list are free to use for home, classroom, church, club and office games. You don't need to sign up or download anything.
What age is ESL Vocabulary bingo good for?
Match the word list to your grade level. The game format works from pre-K through high school.