Workplace conduct: Discussing harassment and using modals of obligation

Workplace conduct β€” a B2 English lesson. Practise modals of obligation and expand vocabulary around creating a respectful and safe work environment.

Workplace conduct: Discussing harassment and using modals of obligation

This lesson plan for English teachers helps B2 students discuss workplace harassment and discrimination. This class material provides vocabulary, grammar, and speaking activities for your next Business English or ESL lesson.

This B2 Business English lesson focuses on creating a respectful workplace. Students begin by discussing scenarios to differentiate between unprofessional behavior and harassment.

Activities include a key vocabulary matching exercise, a news article analysis about a discrimination lawsuit, a listening gap-fill, and a grammar focus on modals. The lesson culminates in role-plays where students practice handling sensitive situations, such as reporting an incident to a manager or supporting a colleague.

Activities

Vocabulary focus

The vocabulary section introduces B2-level words and phrases related to Workplace harassment. Key terms include harassment (noun), discrimination (noun), inappropriate behavior (noun phrase), documentation (noun), obligated (adjective). Students practise using these terms in context through exercises drawn from the source material.

Grammar focus

This lesson focuses on Modals: Obligation, Prohibition & Advice. Modals are auxiliary verbs we use to express ideas like obligation, advice, or prohibition. For strong obligation, often from rules or laws, we use 'must' or 'have to'.

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Handling workplace harassment and discrimination

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