Dietary Supplements

This B2 ESL lesson dives into the world of dietary supplements, using a thought-provoking article as its foundation. Students will explore key terms related to supplements, from “deficiency” to “bias,” and engage in critical thinking activities that challenge common assumptions. With plenty of discussion opportunities, learners will express their views on topics like the “more is better” myth and the appeal of natural remedies. The lesson also includes targeted vocabulary practice, real-world examples, and visually engaging images to spark conversation and deepen understanding. Perfect for encouraging debate and critical reflection on the supplement industry.

Lead-in, Statements

This lesson on supplements begins with a list of 12 popular ones. Students will discuss what they’ve heard about each, exploring their potential benefits and risks. Next, they’ll read statements from the article, reflecting on their opinions and providing examples. Three controversial statements will spark deeper discussion.

Vocabulary preview, Definitions

The vocabulary preview page features 12 words from the article. Students will check the boxes next to words they recognize and provide brief explanations. Afterward, move to the next page to review the definitions of unfamiliar words, offering examples as needed.

Article, Summary, Questions

Next, students will read an article about the three marketing myths that the supplement industry wants you to believe. The reading takes about five minutes, so it can easily be done in class. The article, suitable for upper-intermediate students, offers a general overview of the supplement industry. After reading, students will summarize the article using the provided titles and keywords. There are three main ideas in the article, each with its own title, and students must use all the keywords to craft a clear and comprehensive summary. Then, they’ll move to the next page, which features five thought-provoking questions about the supplement industry and health companies. Feel free to go over as many questions as needed for your lesson.

Vocabulary practice, Discussion

The practice page includes 12 sentences that use vocabulary from the lesson. Students will need to proofread each sentence, identify the two mistakes, and correct them. The final page, titled “Discussion,” presents a short table that highlights the main points of the article along with additional related topics. Students must connect the titles to the topics and explain how they are related. They should expand on the ideas, provide examples, and share real-life experiences where possible.