SpinEverything

ESL Classroom Activity Toolkit

Hangman

Create a classic hangman word guessing game. Enter words and optional hints, then students guess letters to reveal the hidden word before the figure is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many wrong guesses are allowed?

The classic hangman allows a set number of incorrect guesses before the figure is complete and the game is lost.

Can I add hints?

Yes, each word can have an optional hint that students can use if they are stuck.

Can I add multiple words?

Yes, you can enter multiple words and the game will cycle through them, creating a longer play session.

Is this suitable for young children?

Yes, hangman is a classic educational game suitable for all ages. Choose age-appropriate words and the visual feedback keeps younger students engaged.

How to Use the Hangman Game

  1. Enter your wordsType the words you want students to guess. You can add optional hints for each word to help guide students.
  2. Start the gameA word is selected and displayed as blank spaces. The hangman figure begins empty.
  3. Guess lettersStudents guess one letter at a time. Correct guesses reveal the letter in the word. Wrong guesses add to the hangman figure.
  4. Win or loseStudents win by guessing all letters before the hangman figure is complete, or lose if they run out of attempts.

Teaching Tips

  • Choose words related to your current lesson topic so the game reinforces classroom learning.
  • Add helpful hints that give context without making the word too obvious.
  • Play as a whole-class activity by projecting the screen and letting students take turns guessing letters.
  • Use it as a review game — if students guess the word, ask them to define or explain it for bonus points.

Classroom Use Cases

  • Vocabulary review where students guess key terms from the current unit or chapter.
  • Spelling practice for commonly misspelled words in your students age group.
  • End-of-class fun activity that still reinforces educational content from the lesson.