Vocabulary and speaking
Overview
In this first lesson in our unit on conspiracy theories, students will have the opportunity to engage in discussions surrounding a few popular theories, expanding their vocabulary and confidence when examining this intriguing subject.
To begin the lesson, we will start with a boardwork activity to kick off a discussion on conspiracy theories. After that, students will engage in a series of collaborative speaking tasks, exploring the topic through in-depth conversations with their classmates. To end on a high note, we've planned a fun group game where students have to describe fake conspiracy theories.
Classroom activities
Use of the board
The students discuss a few well-known conspiracy theories and review related advanced-level vocabulary.
Start by writing the word "conspiracy" on the board. Try to elicit the definition before adding it to the board. People often mistranslate this term, so you may get some interesting answers.
After that, elicit some famous examples of conspiracy theories from modern culture. Discuss each one with the class and add any vocabulary to the board that you feel is appropriate for this level. 4 - 6 will be enough. Use the sample board work to guide you.

Tinfoil hats
The students will discuss different conspiracy theories with their classmates.

Fake news
For this speaking activity, the students will have to decide which conspiracies were proven to be true.

The grassy knoll
The students will discuss questions related to the rise of conspiracy theories.

Classroom games
Hot seat: Conspiracy theories
Students have to describe crazy conspiracies.

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750+ Low-prep classroom activity ideas
1100+ Printable ESL flashcards
180+ ESL lesson plans
8 Distinct language levels
Offline access through the TEFLHandbook app
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