In this B2 ESL lesson, students will dive into the science behind colds, discussing how airborne viruses affect our bodies and the role of mucus and airway health. They will engage in role-play scenarios, such as visiting a doctor or sharing humorous home remedies with friends, using targeted vocabulary from the lesson. The session will also feature a short TikTok video, a listening activity, and a discussion on common myths and facts about colds.
| Type | Level | Vocabulary | Lesson time |
| Regular Lesson | B2 / Upper-Intermediate | 8 words | 60 min |
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Vocabulary
- airborne virus
- airway
- mucus
- pathogen
- moist
- replenish
- viral particle
- susceptible
Contents
- Lead-in: Fact or myth
- Answers
- Common remedies
- Vocabulary
- Video
- Listening
- Comprehension
- Comments
- Practice
- Discussion
- Role-play
Lead-in, Common remedies
This B2 lesson on colds kicks off with eight statements that students decide are either facts or myths, justifying their answers. The next page reveals the true answers, unpacking each myth or fact with clear explanations. Afterward, students dive into a lively discussion about their favorite cold remedies, exploring a list of 12 common treatments from around the world.
Vocabulary, Video, Listening
The vocabulary page presents eight questions designed to help students analyze each word in depth. While some terms may already be familiar, students will likely need your support and examples for full understanding. The next page features a short, one-minute TikTok video titled “Can You Catch a Cold by Being Cold?” Students should watch the video once or twice, as the speaker talks quickly, and then write their own answer to the question. Answers may vary (either yes or no) as long as students can explain and justify their response. For extra support, consider using the listening activity on the following slide to reinforce understanding.
Comprehension, Comments
The comprehension page includes an engaging, color-coded chart with questions linked to each color, helping students grasp the video’s main idea. Following this, there’s a slide featuring six thought-provoking comments. You can explore as many of these comments as you feel necessary for this health-focused lesson on catching a cold.
Practice, Discussion
The practice page presents eight vocabulary words. Students will read the beginning of each sentence and creatively expand it using the suggested keywords in brackets. This engaging activity not only reinforces their vocabulary but also allows for personal expression. Following this, the discussion page includes targeted questions that prompt students to explore why some people are more prone to colds, which lifestyle changes can boost immunity, and the effects of air quality on health, making the conversation relevant and thought-provoking.
Role-play
The final three pages present role-play scenarios designed to spark creativity and engagement. In pairs, students will act out humorous scenes involving an overly dramatic patient seeking treatment, discussing quirky cold conspiracy theories, or even debating unconventional remedies. This activity encourages lively discussions, active participation, and imaginative thinking, making the learning experience both fun and memorable.
