Summary
This ESL lesson plan focuses on the crucial topic of business etiquette. Students will explore how to make a strong professional impression through activities covering workplace vocabulary, active listening, and proper communication. The lesson includes a video on etiquette basics, practice with professional phrasing, and a look at cultural differences in the workplace. By the end, students will be more confident navigating professional environments.
Activities
Students start by sharing personal experiences with workplace rules, cultural missteps, and punctuality to introduce the topic of professional etiquette.
Learners watch a video on the fundamentals of business etiquette and complete a gap-fill exercise to check their understanding of core principles and key examples.
Students match casual phrases with their professional alternatives and then apply what they've learned in practical role-play scenarios like interrupting a meeting or disagreeing politely.
Participants analyze an unprofessional email, identify its problems, and rewrite it using appropriate tone, language, and formatting for business communication.
Through specific scenarios from different countries (Japan, Germany, USA), students discuss and compare business customs, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity in a global workplace.
Vocabulary focus
This lesson focuses on vocabulary essential for making a professional impression. Students will learn and practice terms like punctuality, firm handshake, eye contact, build rapport, and active listener. The activities also cover the difference between a professional and casual tone to avoid misunderstandings.
Grammar focus
The grammar section focuses on using modal verbs for giving workplace advice. Students will learn the different levels of strength and formality associated with modals like should, must, have to, could, might want to, and the cautionary modal had better to provide clear and appropriate professional guidance.
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