Task-based speaking

This is a speaking lesson on the theme of planning a night out that uses a listening exercise to provide language input.

Author

Richard Frost

Preparation and materials

You will need to record two people planning a night out on the town.

Pre-task (15-20min)

Aim: To introduce the topic of nights out and to give the class exposure to language related to it. To highlight words and phrases.

Show sts pictures of a night out in a restaurant / bar and ask them where they go to have a good night out.
Brainstorm words/phrases onto the board related to the topic: people / verbs / feelings etc.
Introduce the listening of two people planning a night out. Write up different alternatives on the board to give them a reason for listening e.g. (a) restaurant / bar (b) meet at the train station / in the square. Play it a few times, first time to select from the alternatives, second time to note down some language.
Tell them that they are going to plan a class night out and give them a few minutes to think it over.

Task (10min)

Students do the task in twos and plan the night. Match them with another pair to discuss their ideas and any similarities and differences.

Planning (10min)

Each pair rehearses presenting their night out. Teacher walks around, helps them if they need it and notes down any language points to be highlighted later.

Report (15 min)

Class listen to the plans, their task is to choose one of them. They can ask questions after the presentation.
Teacher gives feedback on the content and quickly reviews what was suggested. Students vote and choose one of the nights out.

Language Focus (20min)

Write on the board five good phrases used by the students during the task and five incorrect phrases/sentences from the task without the word that caused the problem. Students discuss the meaning and how to complete the sentences.
Hand out the tapescript from the listening and ask the students to underline the useful words and phrases.
Highlight any language you wish to draw attention to e.g. language for making suggestions, collocations etc.
Students write down any other language they wish to remember.

Note: You can go on the planned night out with your students. This can make it even more motivating for them.

Language Level