1. 🗣️ Start with introductions (but make them active)

Go beyond the classic “Say your name and something about yourself.” Try variations that make students listen to and repeat each other’s names:

• Chain introductions: the first student says “I’m Anna.” The next one says “This is Anna, I’m Marco,” and so on. By the end, the last student introduces everyone in the group.

• Name + gesture: each student says their name with a gesture (a wave, a clap, a movement). The rest of the class repeats both. Associating names with actions helps memory stick.

2. 📒 Turn the register into a routine

When calling the roll, instead of just ticking names, add a mini speaking activity. For example, ask each student a quick “How are you today?” or “One word for your weekend.” This way, names are connected with interaction and not just a list.

3. 🎨 Connect names to memory cues

If you struggle with certain names, quietly link them with something memorable: a sound, a rhyme, or a personal connection. For example:

• • “Claudia with glasses”;

  • “Sara → same as my cousin’s name”.

Just keep these to yourself and avoid anything that might embarrass the student.

4. 🙋🏻‍♀️ Use names all the time

In the first lessons, make a conscious effort to use names when asking questions, praising, or redirecting. Instead of “Good job,” say “Good job, Sarah.” Instead of “Who knows the answer?” ask “What do you think, Tom?” Repetition reinforces memory while making students feel seen.

5. 👥 Check names during activities

While students are in pairs or groups, walk around and silently match names to faces. You can also “quiz yourself” quietly: point to a student in your head and recall their name. If you’re unsure, ask them again casually—it’s better than pretending.

6. 🪑 Seating map (but flexible)

Draw a quick seating plan in your notebook and label students. Update it if they change seats. Some teachers even project a blank classroom layout and ask students to type/write their names on it the first week. It becomes a digital reference.

7. 🙌🏻 Make a game out of it

Language teachers can use short, playful activities to reinforce names while practicing English:

• • Name bingo: students write down classmates’ names in random boxes. Teacher calls out names and they cross them off.

  • Find Someone Who… (with names): instead of just finding someone who “likes pizza,” students must also write their name correctly.

  • Memory circle: one student says, “This is Maria, she likes swimming.” The next repeats and adds, “This is Maria, this is Leo, he likes football,” and so on. Names + interests = stronger recall.

Remember: learning names is about connection, not just memory.

💡 Save these tips for the first week of school and try a few strategies each day!