OVERVIEW & OBJECTIVES

This ESL lesson plan on credit card vs. cash offers engaging activities, PDF worksheets, and digital materials designed for intermediate B1-B2 students. In this lesson, students will:

• Discuss various situations where cash or card might be more convenient.
• Watch a video about the current use of cash and cards in Australia.
• Practice listening skills by doing exercixes based ont the video about the future of cash in Australia.
• Learn several linking words that express contrast.
• Participate in a decision-making challenge, weighing the pros and cons of different scenarios using contrast linking words.

PREVIEW & DISCUSSION

In the first phase of this ESL lesson on using cash vs. credit card, students begin by discussing different situations and deciding whether they would use cash or a credit card for each one. They consider factors such as convenience, security, and practicality. Students also talk about their personal preferences regarding payment methods, reflecting on whether they agree or disagree with common opinions about cash and credit cards. This leads into a discussion on whether they think society is moving towards a cashless future and if governments should promote the use of cash. These activities prepare students for the upcoming video, allowing them to engage with the topic and think critically about the payment methods they use every day.

VIEWING ACTIVITY

The video in this section highlights the rising trend of digital payments in Australia and the ongoing relevance of cash. It explains that while cash is becoming less common, many Australians still prefer it for its convenience and security. The video also touches on new government rules aimed at ensuring cash remains a viable option for essential services. Students answer questions about the content of the video, such as what the reporter feels is happening with cash and why Australia almost became a cashless society. They then match sentences about the advantages of cash with their appropriate endings, helping them understand the key benefits of using cash. Finally, students choose the correct words from the video, practicing listening comprehension and expanding their vocabulary on the topic.

DISCUSSION & GRAMMAR

After watching the video, students discuss the similarities and differences in the use of cash and cards in their own countries compared to Australia. They also reflect on the future of cash, debating whether it will disappear or remain a significant part of the economy. The class then discusses why people might spend more using cards than cash. In the second part of the follow-up, students read opinions from different individuals about their preferences for cash or cards and discuss them. They focus on contrast linking words like "whereas" and "though" to compare and contrast the ideas. 

DECISION-MAKING CHALLENGE: WEIGHING THE OPTIONS

In this final section, students participate in a decision-making challenge. They are given various scenarios, such as deciding between attending a music festival or a single concert, and must use contrast linking words (e.g., "while," "whereas") to weigh the pros and cons of each choice. This activity encourages students to express their opinions, justify their decisions, and practice using the contrast linking words they've learned throughout the lesson. As an alternative, students can ask their classmates or teacher about preferences on different topics, practicing the use of contrast linking words to report responses.

BENEFITS OF USING THIS CREDIT CARD VS. CASH ESL LESSON

This credit card vs. cash ESL lesson provides a dynamic learning experience that enhances students' listening, speaking, and vocabulary skills. It offers a practical context for discussing modern financial practices, helping students connect the lesson to real-world situations. The video and follow-up activities promote critical thinking, while the decision-making challenge reinforces the use of contrast linking words. The lesson's variety of tasks ensures that students remain engaged and develop fluency in discussing everyday financial matters. It’s a versatile and engaging lesson for intermediate learners, promoting both language acquisition and discussion skills.