| LESSON OVERVIEW
Did you know that your smile is a superpower? In this short TED talk, Ron Gutman shows results of some research about smiling, how it affects the way we feel and even our lifespan. It’s a funny and dynamic talk. Even though the speaker uses some scientific vocabulary, students should enjoy it a lot. This general English lesson plan is prepared for less proficient students (B1+).
B2 / Upper Intermediate60 minStandard LessonFree / Premium Plan
GRAMMAR
Firstly, students get some grammar. There is a comparison of make sb vs let sb do sth. Students need to study examples and then, complete the questions with make or let. In addition, students have to ask each other questions from task 1. After that, there is a short discussion on smiling and laughing. You can do this task in pairs or as an open discussion.
VOCABULARY AND VIDEO
Next, students have to match words (which appear in the video) with their synonyms. In the next task, they complete the sentences with the words given. Finally, they should watch the talk and decide whether the sentences are true or false according to the video. This general English lesson plan finishes with a short discussion on smiling and the speaker’s ideas.
Because the video is about 8 minutes long, you can watch it with your students during the lesson and do the comprehension task (true or false).
EXTRA READING AND VOCABULARY TASK
This worksheet also includes some extra activities that focus on practicing reading skills and is prepared for B1+ students. It can be used as homework or in-class supplement of this lesson (if you have time during the class). The text is about clown doctors and the great job they do in hospitals. Students need to complete two parts of the text with provided words. After that, they have to write 5 comprehension questions concerning the text. They can ask and answer them in pairs. Finally, there is an open discussion on the topic of clown doctors.
I think it’s a nice idea for the lesson, I like it. As well as my students!
Thank you 🙂
what a great message, thanks a lot 🙂
Thanks!
Nice positive topic for discussion! Good for listening to different accent practice.
Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thank you!
This is definitely not B1, at least the video isn´t, I am a teacher and I struggle to understand it!
Is there a whole section missing on the e-lesson? The last part about the clown doctors? I don’t see if on the e-lesson?
Hi! Yes, as mentioned in the lesson description, this part is only in PDFs as it’s a quite long reading activity.
Really nice content! Thanks for sharing! XOXO from Brazil!
Thank you, Raquel🙂
I love the topics that deal with fun, smile and happiness. I have only one question. How can I change the subtitle of the video? It seems that the embedded video into the slide only offered one option. I couldn’t find the settings. Any help is appreciated 🙂
You can do that by clicking the Setting icon in the YouTube video player (the one with the cog symbol) which you can find at the bottom of the player. Next, select the Subtitles/CC option from the menu you opened. Finally, choose one of the many subtitle options this TED Talk has to offer.
Really useful lesson plan
It was an interesting topic. My students had very good discussions using it.
Thanks for taking the time to share your feedback with us! We’re happy your students found the lesson so engaging 🙂
The video is charming. But the speaker´s accent and slight lisp make it difficult for students at this level to understand him.