Teacher Discussion Forums

I'd like to hear from everyone how they make their TOEFL classes interesting. I think motivation more than studying is the key to making the class something that the students are dedicated to. What do the people do on this forum to make the subject a bit more lively while still accomplishing the educational goals required by teaching TOEFL preparation?

I try to use issues that are relevant to the students. For example, one of my students is an engineer so I try to find things that are related to what she's studying in university. I also use news items about social issues relevant to her generation to elicit conversation and writing practice.

Thank you, hlamb, for responding. I hope others respond to this same topic.

I came up with something using a Korean board game, which I'll share as a separate thread, just to maximize its hits.