Summary
This downloadable PDF lesson plan for English teachers explores "dark patterns," the tricks websites use to make you click. This complete ESL lesson plan helps students identify and discuss deceptive online design, known as "dark patterns." The class material includes a warm-up discussion, a vocabulary matching exercise, and comprehension questions based on a compelling YouTube video. Students then practice new phrasal verbs, learn a key grammar structure for describing influence, and apply their knowledge in a practical role-play where they must cancel a tricky subscription. This lesson builds both language skills and digital literacy.
Activities
- Students watch a video about dark patterns to understand the main concepts. They then watch again to identify and describe specific deceptive techniques like 'Confirmshaming' and the 'Roach Motel' model, building listening and note-taking skills.
- The lesson focuses on the 'verb + object + preposition + gerund' structure (e.g., 'guilt someone into doing something'). Students rewrite sentences to practice this grammar point, which is essential for describing manipulation and influence.
- A practical role-play challenges students to use what they've learned. One student acts as a customer tricked by a free trial, while the other is a customer service agent. This task helps them practice useful phrases for complaining and negotiating.
Vocabulary focus
The vocabulary focus is on terms related to digital design and manipulation. Students will learn and practice words like 'formidable', 'manipulate', 'subtle', and 'ubiquitous'. The lesson also introduces phrasal verbs such as 'resort to', 'opt out', 'fall victim to', 'rack up', and 'guilt someone into', which are crucial for discussing the topic in detail.
Grammar focus
The grammar section targets the structure: verb + object + preposition + gerund. This pattern is key to describing cause, effect, and influence in the context of dark patterns. Examples include 'pressure users into making', 'discourage customers from unsubscribing', and 'guilt you into accepting', giving students precise language to talk about deceptive tactics.
