Fast Fashion
This B2 lesson explores the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion through readings, discussions, and a satirical SNL video. Students learn 10 vocabulary terms related to sustainable fashion like “polyester,” “forced labor,” and “craftsmanship,” then analyze why fast fashion harms the planet and workers. The lesson includes practical solutions, ethical shopping discussions, and an optional TED talk about valuing existing clothes.
Lesson overview
- Learn 10 vocabulary terms related to sustainable fashion and textile production
- Read and analyze environmental and social impacts of fast fashion industry
- Watch and discuss satirical SNL video about cheap clothing brands ethics
- Explore practical solutions for more responsible and sustainable shopping habits
Student's Version (Light/Dark)
Teacher's Version (Answer Keys)
Printable Classroom Version (A4)
| Level | Vocabulary | Video Length | Lesson Time |
| B2 / Upper-Intermediate | 10 words | 1:46 min | 60 min |
Vocabulary
- garment
- dyes
- polyester
- craftsmanship
- forced labor
- fabrics
- lead
- shady
- fossil fuels
- sustainable
Contents
- Lead-in
- Vocabulary match
- Reading
- Video
- Questions
- Discussion
- Vocabulary practice
- Quote
- Extra video
Start with the five lead-in questions on page 1 about what fast fashion is, how it differs from sustainable fashion, why prices are so low, which brands students know, and how celebrities promote it. Then move to vocabulary matching on page 2 with 10 terms like “garment,” “dyes,” “polyester,” and “forced labor.”
Pages 3-4 have two readings. The first reading on page 3 explains why fast fashion harms the environment, workers, animals, and consumers. Students underline seven reasons, then discuss if they’ve thought about these issues before. Half the class admits they never considered where cheap clothes come from. The second reading on page 4 lists solutions like buying less, choosing quality materials, and making clothes last longer.
Page 5 has a 1:46 minute SNL parody commercial about brands like Shein and Temu. Play the video, then students answer five questions on page 6 about how the ad portrays fast fashion, what surprised them, what message it sends, and whether humor works for serious topics. Page 7 asks students to talk about cheap clothing stores in their city. Students always know exactly which stores sell questionable products.
Page 8 is vocabulary practice where students replace highlighted words in 10 sentences. Page 9 shows a powerful quote about individual consumer impact. Page 10 links to an optional 8-minute TED talk by Josephine Philips about valuing your existing wardrobe instead of chasing trends.
