Just a simple idea really for making games more fun- at least, it works with my students! Instead of just labelling teams Team 1 or Team A or whatever, print out some pics of celebrities or athletes that are cool to the kids at the moment. Then let them choose a picture (I usually get them to do it without being able to see the pics- adds an element of chance) to represent their team. Oh yeah, I usually have a couple of slightly uncool ones as well, kids love to see who's going to be on the Mino Monta team (sorry if you're not familiar with Japanese celebs) and hope it's not them!
Stick the pics on the board and write their points underneath. They seem to have more fun cheering for themselves as Team Asashoryu or Team Ronaldhino than they do for Team A or Team 1!

hhmmm good idea

I have some good clip art for that

thanks

Where can I find such clip art, Kiwione?? Could be very useful for teachers of Japanese students! Let us in on the secret!!!

Famous Japanese Celebrities, that's a great idea for the older kids! I do the same thing but use popular American cartoon characters such as Sponge Bob, his friend Patrick Star and Gray the snail, Spider man, Superman, Batman,etc. The younger kids really love this but the Japanese Celebrities that would be great for the older kids! Thanks for the great idea!