In recent years, the application of augmented reality (AR) technology has been explored in numerous disciplines. This research focused on English sentence learning and utilized the activity theory as the basis to structure a game-based AR learning model (GBARLM). The aim of the investigation was to describe the model and explore the following questions: 1. How did the change of teacher's role influence the effect of English sentence learning in this model? 2. How did the game-based AR learning environment affect English collaborative learning? This study was implemented in a vocational college in China and semi-structure interview and questionnaire were utilized to collect data. The results of the investigation revealed that the change of teachers' role had a positive influence on the students' English learning effect and it enhanced learning interaction, motivation and reduced students' mental pressure. Furthermore, the game-based AR learning environment could facilitate collaborative learning through enhancing learning motivation and providing more discussion, time and learning materials for students.