Summary
This downloadable C1 English lesson plan explores generational divides, using a video to spark discussion on culture, economics, and society, specifically focusing on the term 'boomer'. It features activities like matching generations, vocabulary building, video comprehension, and figurative language analysis.
The lesson culminates in a structured debate where students use concessive clauses to argue the fairness of blaming entire generations for societal problems, fostering nuanced communication skills for advanced learners.
Activities
- Warm-up discussion: Students begin by matching the names of generations (Boomers, Gen X, etc.) to their common descriptions, activating their background knowledge and setting the stage for the main topic of intergenerational perspectives.
- Vocabulary building: Before watching the video, learners complete a gap-fill exercise with key vocabulary like 'electoral powerhouse' and 'consolidation' to ensure they can fully grasp the video's critical arguments about economics and politics.
- Video comprehension: The core activity involves watching a video that presents a strong indictment of the Baby Boomer generation, followed by comprehension questions that test students' listening skills and understanding of the main points.
- Figurative language analysis: Learners analyze idiomatic and figurative language used in the video, such as 'handed on a silver platter' and 'clean up the mess', to understand how metaphors are used to make a persuasive argument more powerful.
- Structured debate: The lesson transitions to a grammar and speaking focus, where students learn and practice using concessive clauses to formulate nuanced arguments for a final debate on generational responsibility and societal change.
Vocabulary focus
This lesson focuses on vocabulary for social and economic commentary, including terms like deregulating, electoral powerhouse, coffers, and consolidation. It also explores figurative language and idioms such as on a silver platter, clean up the mess, and M.O. (modus operandi) to help students understand persuasive rhetoric.
Grammar focus
The main grammar point is using concessive clauses to express nuance and acknowledge counter-arguments. Students will practice constructing sentences with Although, Even though, While, Despite, and In spite of to move beyond simplistic statements and engage in more sophisticated, balanced discourse suitable for advanced learners.
