As far as the classification of CLT activities, different scholars have different criteria. But Littlewood’s classification gains more recognition because it is terse and concise, and it is in accord with the tasks of language teaching. In his view, role-play is one typical communicative activity adopted in CLT for it can set up a more authentic communicative situation and interpersonal relationship, in which the students are able to use target language to exchange ideas with each other and thus to improve their communicative competence.
初中英语课堂中角色扮演活动的设计与实施(3):http://www.youerw.com/yingyu/lunwen_58041.html