Workplace conduct: Discussing harassment and using modals of obligation

Summary

This 90-minute ESL lesson for B2 learners explores Workplace conduct: Discussing harassment and using modals of obligation through a real article. Across 10 interactive exercises, you'll develop reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, practical communication, speaking skills — all built around authentic English content.

What you'll practise:

• 5 key vocabulary items with definitions and usage notes
• Grammar focus: Modals of obligation, prohibition, and advice with examples and practice
• Real-world phrases for supporting a colleague
• Gap-fill and cloze exercises to test vocabulary in context
• Matching exercise to connect terms with their meanings
• Error correction to sharpen grammar awareness

Lesson activities (10 exercises)

Each exercise builds on the previous one. Work through them in order for the best learning experience.

1. Warm-up — Discussion questions to activate what you already know about the topic.
2. Comprehension — Answer questions to check your understanding of the main ideas and supporting details.
3. Vocabulary — Learn key words and expressions from the article, with definitions and usage notes.
4. Matching — Connect words, phrases, or concepts to their correct counterparts.
5. Grammar — Study Modals of obligation, prohibition, and advice — explanation, examples, and key rules.
6. Error correction — Find and fix the mistake in each sentence — a great grammar workout.
7. Practical English — Learn phrases for supporting a colleague — ready to use in real conversations.
8. Fill the gaps — Complete sentences with the correct vocabulary. Drag and drop or type your answers.
9. Discussion — Reflect on the topic and share your opinions using the language you've learned.

Vocabulary

This lesson introduces 5 key terms drawn directly from the article:

• To cross the line — to behave in a way that is considered unacceptable or inappropriate.
• To raise a concern — to inform someone in authority, like a manager or HR, about a problem or worry in a professional manner.
• To file a formal complaint — to make an official, usually written, report about a serious problem.
• Hostile work environment — a workplace where ongoing unwelcome comments or conduct create an intimidating or offensive atmosphere.
• Retaliation — the act of punishing someone for reporting misconduct or making a complaint.

Grammar

This lesson focuses on Modals of obligation, prohibition, and advice.

We use modal verbs to express different levels of certainty, necessity, or social obligation. When discussing workplace conduct, they are essential for talking about rules (obligation), what is not allowed (prohibition), and what is recommended (advice).

Examples from the lesson:

• Employers must investigate all harassment claims seriously. — Use 'must' or 'have to' for strong obligations, often based on laws or official company rules.
• If you feel uncomfortable, you should speak to your manager or HR. — Use 'should' or 'ought to' to give strong advice or suggest the best course of action. It's a recommendation, not a strict rule.
• You mustn't retaliate against someone for reporting an issue. — Use 'mustn't' for strong prohibitions – things that are strictly forbidden. Don't confuse it with 'don't have to', which means something is not necessary.

Key rules:

• Use 'must' and 'have to' for rules and legal obligations.
• Use 'should' to give advice or make a recommendation.
• A common mistake is confusing 'mustn't' (it's forbidden) with 'don't have to' (it's not required).

Practical English

Supporting a colleague

When a colleague has experienced inappropriate behavior, it can be difficult to know what to say. Use these phrases to offer support in a sensitive, effective, and professional way.

Phrases you'll learn:

• "I couldn't help but notice what happened earlier. Are you okay?" — gently opens the conversation and shows concern.
• "That was completely out of line. You have every right to feel that way." — validates the person's feelings and confirms the behavior was unacceptable.
• "Just so you know, whatever you share stays between us." — establishes trust and confidentiality.
• "Have you considered documenting what happened, just in case?" — offers practical advice in a non-demanding way.
• "If you decide to report this, I'm happy to back you up." — offers concrete support without pressure.