Surprising Ways to Improve English
This B1 lesson gives students three surprising ways to improve English that go beyond textbooks and classrooms. Students explore practical ideas like getting a job in English, teaching others, and creating videos. The lesson encourages learners to push past their comfort zones and practice English in real-world situations.
Lesson overview
- Explore unconventional English learning strategies through guided reading activities
- Practice vocabulary related to language improvement and personal development goals
- Discuss personal experiences with stepping outside comfort zones
- Develop speaking confidence by sharing unique English learning tips
Student's Version (Light/Dark)
Teacher's Version (Answer Keys)
Printable Classroom Version (A4)
| Level | Vocabulary | Lesson Time |
| B1 / Intermediate | 12 words | 60 min |
Vocabulary
- Apply
- Fluent
- Take the plunge
- Informal
- Mentor
- Accomplishment
- Passionate about
- Audience
- Embrace
- Consider
- Comfort zone
- Opportunity
Contents
- Lead-in
- Reading 1
- Reading 2
- Reading 3
- Summary
- Speaking
- Agree or disagree
- Practice 1
- Practice 2
- Pair-work
Start with the lead-in questions on page 2 to get students thinking about their English learning journey. Ask them to share memories of their first English teacher or apps they currently use. This warm-up connects to the lesson theme and gets everyone talking.
Move to the reading section where students take turns reading the three tips aloud. Pause after each section to check the vocabulary definitions provided. Have students answer the follow-up questions in pairs before sharing with the class. This gives everyone processing time and builds in speaking practice.
The vocabulary practice on pages 11-12 works well before freer activities. Students match synonyms and complete sentence halves, which helps the new words from the reading stick. Monitor pairs and offer support where needed.
The pair work activity on page 13 is where students apply everything. Each pair creates and exchanges one unusual English learning tip. They discuss for three minutes, then present their partner’s idea to the class. This structure takes pressure off individual performance while maximizing speaking time. Wrap up by asking which tips the class found most interesting and which ones they might actually try.
