Lesson Overview

This B2 ESL lesson explores the topic “Do Animals Have Language?”, helping students discuss how animals communicate and compare this with human language.

Learners look at different examples of animal communication, such as how animals share information about danger, food, and social behaviour, and consider whether these systems can be called “language.”

Students learn and use key vocabulary related to communication and language features, such as grammar, productivity, and communication systems, as well as phrases for giving opinions and justifying ideas, such as “I think…”, “In my opinion…”, and “It depends because…”.

Through reading, discussion questions, and speaking activities, students practise explaining ideas, comparing humans and animals, and expressing agreement or disagreement. They also develop confidence in talking about abstract topics and scientific ideas in simple, clear English.

This lesson is ideal for B2 learners who are developing their ability to discuss ideas, give reasons, and take part in longer speaking discussions on thought-provoking topics.

1. Warm Up: Languages
2. Video: New Words
3. Video: Quotes 
4. Video: Discussion
5. Debate
6. Would you rather? 
7. Idioms: Communication 

Homework

There is an excellent homework task to supplement this awesome B2 ESL lesson plan. Students are challenged to write detailed answers to topic-based questions. Activity layout:

1. Writing task