10 Signs You’re Being Micromanaged
This engaging B2-level ESL lesson is designed for adult learners and focuses on the topic of micromanagement. Based on a video featuring various people sharing their experiences and opinions on being micromanaged, students will expand their vocabulary related to workplace dynamics, participate in fun role-plays, engage in thought-provoking group discussions, and share their own personal stories. Perfect for developing fluency and confidence in discussing workplace challenges!
| Level | Vocabulary | Video length | Lesson time |
| B2 / Upper-Intermediate | 10 words | 5:03 min | 60 min |
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Vocabulary
- abolish
- red flag
- keep an eye on
- autonomy
- telltale sign
- side-eye
- one-on-one
- stalker
- throw a bone
- carbon copy
Contents
- Lead-in 1
- Lead-in 2
- Vocabulary preview
- Definitions
- Video
- Answers
- Vocabulary practice
- Opposites
- Role-play 1
- Role-play 2
Lead-In
This lesson on micromanagement begins with sentences provided in boxes. Students identify who might say each—such as a boss, parent, or sibling—and then create one additional sentence for that person. In the next part of the lead-in section, students answer discussion questions. You can adjust the number of questions based on what feels most relevant for your lesson.
Vocabulary preview, Definitions
The vocabulary preview page introduces 10 key words from the video. Before watching, students check the boxes next to words they already know. You don’t need to discuss these now. On the next page, review the unfamiliar words with explanations and provide additional examples if needed.
Video, Comprehension
The video, 10 Signs You’re Being Micromanaged, features multiple people sharing their experiences with micromanagement. Students will watch the video and list 10 phrases a micromanaging boss might use. Then, they’ll move to the next page to check their answers and discuss the video as a group. The answers page also includes an extra question to encourage further group discussion.
Vocabulary practice, Opposites
The lesson includes vocabulary practice activities. One page features sentences with highlighted keywords, where students rephrase them using alternative words from page 4. The next vocabulary practice page focuses on opposites. Students match 10 terms from the lesson with their opposites from a list on the right, then create example sentences using the opposites.
Role-plays
The final part of the lesson is role-play, featuring two scenarios: a boss who tries to control everything and an overly helpful coworker. Both pages include clear instructions. Allow students enough time to prepare and encourage them to practice multiple times, switching roles and assigning different students to participate in the role-play for a varied and engaging experience.
