With this lesson, students will expand their vocabulary on consumerism, persuasion, and economics, learning terms like splurge, planned obsolescence, impulse buying, bandwagon effect, and throwaway culture. They will develop advanced discussion and debating skills while analyzing how advertising, social pressure, and lifestyle trends influence modern spending habits.
Download the printable wordlist HERE to help your students review more easily!
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lesson overview
This B2–C1 ESL lesson explores the idea of consumerism, shopping habits, and overconsumption through video tasks, debates, and vocabulary practice. Students analyze how advertising, social pressure, Black Friday trends, and planned obsolescence influence modern spending. The lesson also teaches debating skills, discussion phrases, and expressions for giving opinions, making it ideal for speaking-focused class. This worksheet can be used as a flipped-classroom activity if needed. The lesson is available in both printable format for traditional classrooms and a digital 16:9 PDF 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: B2-C1 (Upper-Intermediate to Advanced)
- Best for: Adults and older teenagers
Content Breakdown:
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- Warm-Up / Before Class Video Exploration
- Complete the Data and Discuss the Numbers
- Matching Vocabulary
- Discussion
- Opinion Statements Practice
- Debate
- Wrap-Up Discussion
HOMEWORK (Extra Language Immersion):
Reading and Quiz:
Learners read a New York Times Wirecutter article on sustainable shopping habits and discuss practical tips for reducing waste and avoiding impulsive consumption. The task encourages critical reflection, vocabulary recycling, and real-life application of the topic.