Finding Your Ikigai
This B1 ESL lesson focuses on discovering Ikigai, a Japanese concept that connects happiness with purpose. Students will reflect on questions related to their work, life, and happiness, helping them explore their own passions and purpose. The lesson includes key vocabulary, a video that explains the components of Ikigai, and a discussion of the Ikigai diagram. Students will also reflect on their own Ikigai by considering what they love, what they’re good at, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for. This is an engaging, conversational lesson ideal for intermediate adult learners.
| Level | Vocabulary | Video length | Lesson time |
| B1 / Intermediate | 8 words | 0:58 min | 60 min |
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Vocabulary
- passion
- purpose
- vocation
- mission
- profession
- balance
- joy
- strengthÂ
Contents
- QuoteÂ
- Lead-in
- Vocabulary match
- Vocabulary practice
- Video
- Discussion
- Speaking
- Questions
- Extra words
Quote, Lead-in
This intermediate lesson focuses on discovering Ikigai, a Japanese concept that connects happiness with purpose. The lesson begins with a thought-provoking quote for students to discuss, followed by an exploration of the meaning of Ikigai. Students will learn about its origin and answer follow-up questions related to life and purpose.
Vocabulary Match, Vocabulary practice
The next part focuses on vocabulary that will be useful for understanding the video. There are eight words in total. Students will first match the words with their definitions. Afterward, they will practice using the words by filling in the blanks in sentences with the correct missing words.
Video, Discussion
The next part of the class features a video titled ‘How to Find Your Purpose.’ In this video, the speaker introduces the concept of Ikigai and its main components. After watching, students will move on to the next slide, where they will complete a chart, explain the meaning of Ikigai, and share their thoughts on the concept.
Speaking
The next part focuses on speaking, where students will answer questions to explore their own Ikigai. The questions will include: What do you love? What are you good at? What does the world need? What can you be paid for? This activity can lead to a meaningful discussion, and it can be done in pairs, small groups, or individually. Afterward, students will move to the next slide to complete sentences with their own thoughts, helping them reflect further on the topic.
Questions, Extra words
The final part consists of questions related to jobs, purpose, skills, goals, and dreams. This activity serves as a great way to wrap up the class and summarize everything students have learned about the concept of Ikigai.
