OBJECTIVE & OVERVIEW

This smart technology ESL lesson plan provides activities, PDF worksheets, and digital materials designed for upper intermediate B2 students. In this lesson, students will:

• Engage in discussions about smart technology and its impacts
• Learn some vocabulary related to smart technology
• Watch a video about whether smart technology is making us dumb
• Study and use linking phrases with various functions
• Engage in discussions about the pros and cons of a type of technology they use

PREVIEW & DISCUSSION

In the first part of this smart technology ESL lesson plan, students start by analyzing images depicting various people using smart technology in different ways. They discuss whether the technology is helping or harming each person, such as Pat and Alicia using a smartphone to find accommodation or Rosa feeling neck pain from prolonged smartphone use.

Next, students match statements about smart technology to the people from the images, such as determining who might say, “I should stop clinging to my phone at night” based on the images. Finally, students reflect on their own experiences with smart technology, discussing whether they agree or disagree with statements about smartphone use and its effects on their lives.

VIEWING ACTIVITY

During the viewing phase of the lesson, students watch a video about smart technology and whether or not it makes us dumb. They first identify positive and negative impacts of smart technology as presented in the video. They then engage in a true/false exercise regarding statements about the effects of technology on children and adults. They correct any false statements. Afterward, students complete a reporter’s quote by filling in missing words related to technology trends and expert opinions from the video.

DISCUSSION & LINKING PHRASES

After watching the video, students discuss how effectively the video answers the question of whether smart technology makes us dumb and consider the idea of tech-free schools for children. They also evaluate whether smart devices have a positive or negative impact on their own lives.

Following this, students read Omar's opinion on smart technology and match linking phrases to their functions. Finally, they complete Daewon's opinion about his smartwatch using similar linking phrases.

TECH TALK UNPLUGGED: SHARE YOUR OPINIONS

For the activation phase of this ESL lesson on smart technology, students choose a specific type of technology they use and discuss their likes and dislikes about it. They work with a classmate or teacher to share opinions. They use linking phrases such as “On the other hand, ...” or “In short, ...” in their discussions.

Alternatively, students discuss broader ideas related to technology, such as whether everyone should have tech-free periods or their reliance on smart devices.

Benefits of using this ESL lesson plan on smart technology:

Enhanced Critical Thinking

This lesson encourages students to analyze the impact of smart technology on their lives. By evaluating both its advantages and disadvantages, they enhance their critical thinking skills.

Improved Discussion Skills

Students practice articulating their opinions and participating in meaningful conversations about technology. This improves their ability to engage in thoughtful discussions.

Self-Reflection

Students consider how smart technology affects their own lives, leading to a deeper understanding of its implications. This fosters greater self-reflection and awareness.

Information Interpretation

The lesson helps students develop skills to interpret and evaluate information about technology. They learn to distinguish between accurate and misleading data.

Clearer Communication

Students practice using linking phrases to create coherent arguments. This helps them communicate their ideas more clearly during discussions.