In this lesson, learners explore adjective suffixes and word formation, discovering how nouns and verbs become adjectives and how meaning changes with different endings. Ideal for meaningful practice and real-world communication.
lesson overview
With this B1–B2 ESL lesson plan, students explore adjective suffixes (-ful, -less, -able, -ous, -ive, -ic / -ical, ish, and more) to significantly expand their descriptive vocabulary. Learners practice forming adjectives from nouns and verbs (e.g. stressful, hopeless, reliable, economical, historical) while developing accuracy and confidence through speaking tasks, controlled practice, and creative activities. The lesson is strongly speaking-focused and helps students express opinions, describe situations, and understand subtle differences in meaning in real-life contexts. The lesson is available in both printable format for traditional classrooms and an online presentation. The user-friendly digital format allows easy navigation in presentation mode with just a click of the spacebar, requiring no additional software.
Target Audience:
- Level: B1–B2 (Intermediate to Upper-intermediate)
- Best for: Adults and teens
Content Breakdown:
- Warm-Up
- Introduction to Adjective Suffixes
- Controlled Word-Formation Practice (Gap-fills & Choose Correct Alternative)
- Confusing Adjectives Practice (magic vs. magical; economic vs. economical etc.)
- Adjective Story Swap
- Guess the Adjective
- Adjective Debate
- Pick A Question For Your Speaking Partner
HOMEWORK (Extra Language Immersion):
Listening Comprehension
Students watch and listen to a short video about optical illusions and complete a fill-in-the-gaps activitybased on what they hear. The task focuses on recognizing and using adjectives with common suffixes in context, helping learners reinforce listening skills while consolidating new vocabulary in a natural, engaging way.