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Low-resource ESL lesson plan
The environment
Low-resource ESL lesson plan
45-60 min
Low-resource ESL lesson plan
Low-Resource
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Overview

The third lesson in our unit on the environment focuses on discussing and debating recent environmental news, as well as proposing solutions. The aim is to enhance students' ability to engage with and express their opinions on current issues. During the session, students will get the opportunity to express their views on various topics, fostering more effective communication on global environmental challenges.

The lesson plan starts with a boardwork activity based on the latest environmental news events. After that, students will participate in different collaborative speaking activities designed to encourage in-depth debate and consideration of various solutions to the environmental issues presented. As usual, we wrap up with an idea for a fun group game.

Lesson Outline
Activities
Low-resource ESL lesson plan
Boardwork
1The morning headlines
2We need action
3Class debate
Games
1Family fortunes
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Classroom activities

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Use of the board

The students will discuss recent environmental news events with their classmates.

Start by adding some recent news headlines on environmental topics to the board. Reuters and The Guardian both have environment sections with an international focus. Alternatively, use these examples from January 2020. Next, add the three questions to the centre of the board.

Divide the class into groups and have them talk about each headline, using the questions to guide their conversations. Monitor throughout and don't be afraid to join in. Give them as much time as they need before holding a class discussion where all the groups are encouraged to share their ideas.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
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Low-resource ESL activity

The morning headlines

For this speaking activity, the students will work in pairs to discuss different environmental problems.

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Low-resource ESL activity

We need action

For this group speaking activity, the students get into more detail about how each of the previously discussed problems could be resolved.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
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Low-resource ESL activity

Class debate: The environment

Students debate some controversial statements related to the environment.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
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Classroom games

Low-resource ESL activity

Family fortunes: Carbon emissions

An adapted version of a classic UK game show that can be played in the classroom.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
This lesson plan is exclusive to TEFLHandbook members. Join today and get instant access to our expanding library of teaching resources.