Lesson Plan: Is the Smartphone a Good Tool to Use?
Level: Intermediate
Objective: By the end of the lesson, students will be able to express their opinions on whether smartphones are beneficial or detrimental and support their arguments using appropriate language and reasoning.
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
Materials:
Whiteboard or blackboard
Markers or chalk
Handouts (optional)
Internet access (optional for research activities)
Procedure:
Warm-up (5 minutes)
Begin the lesson by asking students to share their personal experiences and thoughts about smartphones.
Encourage a brief discussion on the advantages and disadvantages they perceive smartphones to have.
Vocabulary Introduction (10 minutes)
Introduce relevant vocabulary related to the topic, such as "smartphone," "technology," "communication," "productivity," "distraction," "addiction," etc.
Write the vocabulary words on the board and provide brief definitions and examples of usage.
Engage students in a short brainstorming activity, asking them to come up with additional words or phrases related to smartphones.
Group Discussion (15 minutes)
Divide the class into small groups (3-4 students per group) and assign each group a stance: "Smartphones are beneficial" or "Smartphones are detrimental."
Instruct students to discuss their assigned stance within their groups, brainstorming arguments, and supporting examples.
Encourage students to consider various aspects, such as education, communication, productivity, social interaction, etc.
Group Presentations (15 minutes)
Have each group present their arguments to the class, alternating between the two stances.
Encourage active listening and respectful questioning from the other groups.
Allow short rebuttals or counter-arguments from opposing groups.
Research Activity (optional) (10 minutes)
If internet access is available, ask students to individually research and find real-life examples or case studies that support or challenge their initial stance.
Students should briefly summarise their findings and be prepared to share them with the class.
Whole Class Discussion (10 minutes)
Engage the whole class in an open discussion, allowing students to express their personal opinions on the topic.
Encourage students to use the vocabulary introduced earlier and provide reasoned arguments to support their views.
Wrap-up and Reflection (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points discussed during the lesson.
Ask students to reflect on their initial opinions and whether the discussions and research activities have influenced or changed their views.
Allow a few students to share their reflections with the class.
Extension Activities (optional):
Writing Task: Ask students to write an essay expressing their personal opinion on whether smartphones are good tools to use, supporting their arguments with specific examples and evidence.
Role Play: Divide the class into pairs and assign one student to take the role of a smartphone advocate and the other as a skeptic. Have them engage in a dialogue defending their positions.
Remember to adapt the lesson plan based on the needs and proficiency level of your students. Feel free to add or modify activities to suit your teaching style and classroom dynamics. Good luck with your English language lesson!