LESSON OVERVIEW

In this lesson, students learn some informal expressions in English which are used instead of common phrases like ‘I understand’. They also watch two sets of short video clips, and practise using the new language.

INFORMAL EXPRESSIONS & VIDEOS

The lesson starts with a warm-up activity in which students discuss their knowledge of informal expressions in English. Then, they brainstorm colloquial ways of saying ‘I understand’, ‘I don’t understand’, ‘I’m not surprised’ and ‘You’re welcome’. After that, students watch the first set of short video clips and decide which of the four meanings from the previous exercise the actors express. Before watching the video for the second time, students complete gaps in some informal expressions (e.g. I feel you., Fair enough., Beats me.). Then, they watch the video and check their answers. Before watching the second video, students look at a set of expressions in context and decide what they mean (e.g. Much appreciated., I owe you one., Don’t mention it.). Next, they watch the video and decide which expressions were used. 

MORE EXPRESSIONS & PRACTICE

This part of the lesson starts with pairwork. Students have to react to their partner’s statements but cannot use ‘Thanks’, ‘You’re welcome’, ‘I understand’, or ‘I don’t understand’. Then, they discuss the importance of learning informal expressions in English and decide which of the expressions they have so far learnt in the lesson they want to start using. Next, students look at short dialogues and replace the reactions with provided alternatives (e.g. No kidding!, Tell me about it!, Anytime.). After that, students get more practice by looking at some situations and explaining people’s reactions. Finally, students work in pairs and choose a topic from the list. Their partner should react using the informal expressions from the lesson, as well as adding any necessary details.