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Can for ability

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Low-resource ESL lesson plan
Beginner+/A1
Low-resource ESL lesson plan
Grammar
Low-resource ESL lesson plan
45-60 min
Low-resource ESL lesson plan
Low-Resource
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Overview

In this beginner-level ESL lesson, we will focus on using the modal verb can to express and inquire about abilities. The students will have the opportunity to practice constructing sentences and questions that communicate their own and others' abilities.

To begin, we will use a clear boardwork example to introduce the language focus for the lesson. After that, we will engage in several classroom activities that will allow the students to apply what they have learned through writing and speaking tasks, thus enhancing their practical understanding. Finally, we will conclude with a collaborative game that reinforces the students' grasp of using "can" to express abilities effectively.

Lesson Outline
Activities
Low-resource ESL lesson plan
Boardwork
1Can I...?
2True or false
3He can/can't
Games
1Can the teacher...?
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Classroom activities

Low-resource ESL lesson plan

Use of the board

Students are introduced to language that allows them to express ability. They'll first look at the grammar, before working through some examples on the board.

Add both diagrams, eliciting as much as possible from the students. Next, ask for an example statement and add it to the board. Now have the students turn that statement into a question and add it below. Add a few more examples, switching up the pronouns and focusing on the correct short answer responses. Do as many as you feel are necessary and lean on the L1 if you can.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
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Low-resource ESL activity

Can I...?

A writing activity where students use the target language to make sentences about their abilities.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
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Low-resource ESL activity

True or false

The students will use their work from the previous activity and attempt to fool their partner.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
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Low-resource ESL activity

He can/can't

Students have to make speculations on a classmate's abilities.

Low-resource ESL lesson plan
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Classroom games

Low-resource ESL activity

Can the teacher...?

Two teams compete to find the limitations of your capabilities.

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.