Summary
This downloadable PDF lesson plan for English teachers provides ESL class material for B1 students to learn how to agree and disagree politely. This complete lesson uses varied activities to boost confidence and improve conversational English skills.
This practical lesson plan guides students through the essential skills of expressing opinions in conversations. Activities start with a warm-up discussion, followed by vocabulary matching and gap-fill exercises to introduce key phrases. A short video provides authentic listening practice, which is then reinforced by a clear grammar focus on opinion phrases and connectors like 'but' and 'however'. The lesson culminates in a structured debate, allowing students to use the new language in a communicative and engaging setting.
Activities
- Warm-up discussion: Students begin by sharing their opinions on lighthearted topics like pets and pizza toppings. This initial activity encourages natural conversation and prepares them for the lesson's main theme of expressing viewpoints in English.
- Vocabulary building: Learners match key phrases for agreeing and disagreeing to their functions before using them to complete a sample dialogue. This helps solidify their understanding of how to use the language appropriately in different contexts.
- Video comprehension: A listening comprehension activity based on a short YouTube video helps students hear the target language used naturally. They answer questions to check their understanding of different ways to express agreement and disagreement.
- Speaking practice: The lesson concludes with a communicative 'Let's debate!' activity. In small groups, students discuss topics like technology and travel, putting all the vocabulary and grammar they have learned into practice in a supported environment.
Vocabulary focus
This lesson focuses on functional phrases for managing conversations. Students will learn and practice key expressions for strong agreement (I couldn't agree more, You're absolutely right), partial agreement (That's a good point, I suppose so), and polite disagreement (I'm not so sure, I see what you mean, but...).
Grammar focus
The grammar section provides clear instruction on two key areas. First, students learn different phrases for introducing personal views (I think..., I feel that..., In my opinion...). Second, they practice using contrast connectors like but, however, and although to structure their arguments and soften disagreements politely and effectively.
