Summary
This downloadable PDF lesson plan for English teachers helps B2 students learn the art of constructive arguments. This ESL class material provides a full lesson on communication, conflict resolution, and persuasion, perfect for developing speaking skills.
This lesson plan guides students through a video on having better arguments. Activities include a warm-up discussion about conflict, a vocabulary matching exercise, and comprehension questions based on the video. Students then practice grammar for giving constructive advice and learn useful phrases for disagreeing respectfully. The lesson culminates in a role-play activity where students apply their new skills to solve a disagreement in various real-life scenarios, promoting both fluency and practical communication.
Activities
- Vocabulary matching: Students learn key terms for discussing conflict, such as 'adversary,' 'common ground,' and 'tribal trap.' They match these words to their definitions to build a solid foundation for understanding the video's concepts and discussing the topic with precision.
- Video comprehension: Based on a short, engaging video, students answer questions about the barriers to good arguments and the principles of better conversations. This task hones listening skills and deepens their understanding of how to turn conflict into collaboration.
- Constructive advice practice: This grammar section focuses on transforming confrontational statements into constructive advice. Students practice using imperatives, modal verbs like 'should' and 'could,' and collaborative question forms to offer suggestions and solutions in a positive way.
- Role-play scenarios: In the final activity, students work in pairs to role-play common disagreements (e.g., planning a holiday, managing a project). They must use the lesson's phrases and strategies to navigate the conflict constructively, aiming for a shared solution instead of 'winning'.
Vocabulary focus
This lesson focuses on vocabulary related to conflict and debate. Key terms include: aggravating, nonnegotiable, tribal trap, credibility, to stifle, adversary, butting heads, and common ground. These words empower students to discuss disagreements and negotiation strategies with more nuance and accuracy, both in personal and professional contexts.
Grammar focus
The grammar point is giving constructive advice. The lesson moves beyond simple commands to teach more diplomatic forms. Students will practice using imperatives for direct instructions (e.g., 'Listen to their side'), modal verbs for suggestions ('You could try...'), and question forms for collaboration ('What if we focus on the problem together?').
