Summary
This downloadable PDF lesson plan for English teachers explores the modern use of pronouns. This class material helps ESL students understand singular 'they', neopronouns, and how to discuss pronouns respectfully in English. Based on a fascinating TED-Ed video, this lesson plan engages students with a variety of activities. It includes vocabulary matching, listening comprehension tasks, and grammar exercises on singular 'they' and the versatile 'we'. Students will learn practical phrases for discussing pronouns and apply their knowledge in guided role-play scenarios about introductions and gentle corrections. This material is designed to build both linguistic competence and cultural awareness in a modern, inclusive context.
Activities
- Students begin by matching key vocabulary from the video, such as 'history buff' and 'sock puppet', to prepare for the main listening task. This pre-watching activity ensures comprehension and introduces the core concepts of the lesson.
- Learners watch a TED-Ed video about the history and psychology of pronouns. They answer comprehension questions and complete a true/false listening exercise to check their understanding of specific details about singular 'they' and historical usage.
- The lesson includes a clear grammar focus on the correct use of singular 'they' and the different meanings of the pronoun 'we'. Students solidify their understanding through targeted fill-in-the-blank and scenario-based exercises.
- To activate the new language, students learn useful phrases for real-life situations. They then practice these phrases through structured role-plays, covering scenarios like introducing themselves and gently correcting pronoun mistakes at a conference.
Vocabulary focus
This lesson focuses on vocabulary related to language and social interaction. Key terms include: a fuss, history buff, catchall, wary of, subordinate, to deflect, sock puppet, and subconsciously. These words help students understand the nuances discussed in the video and engage in more advanced conversations.
Grammar focus
The main grammar point is the modern and historical use of singular 'they' for non-specific or non-binary individuals, covering subject, object, and possessive forms. The lesson also explores the ambiguity of the pronoun 'we', analyzing how its meaning changes depending on social context.
