| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | English |
| What topic | politeness, verb can |
| What length (min) | 30 |
| What age group | Adult courses |
| Class size | 20 |
| What curriculum | |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 5 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Politeness in English Language Using the Verb "Can"
Adult Courses
English
20 Students
This lesson aligns with the New Zealand Curriculum for English, focusing on communication skills, social conventions of language use, and developing a respectful dialogue.
30 Minutes
| Step Number | Step Title | Length | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Politeness | 5 Minutes | Discuss the importance of politeness in communication. Introduce the verb "can" and its role in polite requests. |
| 2 | Explanation of "Can" | 5 Minutes | Explain how "can" is commonly used for permission and ability. Provide examples of polite requests using "can". |
| 3 | Guided Practice | 10 Minutes | Work on handout exercises in pairs. Students create sentences using "can" to make polite requests and offers. |
| 4 | Role-Play Activity | 5 Minutes | Students will role-play scenarios where they practice polite requests and offers using "can". |
| 5 | Assign Homework | 2 Minutes | Inform students about homework related to using "can" in polite contexts. Distribute homework assignments. |
| 6 | Conclusion and Feedback | 3 Minutes | Review key points covered in the lesson. Encourage students to express any questions or feedback. |
"Good morning, everyone! Today, we’re going to explore an important aspect of communication: politeness. Politeness helps us connect with others in a respectful manner, which is essential in both personal and professional interactions.
We’re going to focus particularly on the verb 'can' today. 'Can' is a versatile verb used in making polite requests and offers. Before we dive in, let me ask you: Why do you think politeness is important when communicating with others? Feel free to share your thoughts."
"Great responses, everyone! Now, let’s discuss the verb 'can.'
'Can' is often used to express two main ideas: permission and ability. For example, when you ask 'Can I borrow your pen?' you’re politely requesting permission. Similarly, when you say, 'I can help you with that,' you’re expressing your ability to assist.
Let’s look at a few more examples together. I'll write on the board:
Notice how we’re using 'can' to form polite requests. Now, who can think of another example? Don’t worry if you feel unsure—let’s work through it together!"
"Excellent examples! Now, let's practice this concept a little more. I have printed handouts for everyone with some exercises.
In pairs, I want you to create polite sentences using 'can.' Here’s what I’d like you to do:
I’ll give you about ten minutes for this, and I’ll be walking around to assist if you have any questions."
"Time's up, everyone! Now, let’s take what we've practiced into a fun activity: role-playing.
I’m going to hand out some scenarios for you to act out in small groups. Each scenario will involve making polite requests using 'can.' For example, one group might act out a scene in a café where someone asks, 'Can I have a coffee, please?'
Spend the next five minutes practicing your role-plays, and then each group will perform for us. Remember to focus on politeness in your tone and language!"
"Well done, everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the role-play. Now, for your homework, I’d like you to continue practicing using 'can' in polite contexts.
Your task is to write five polite requests and five polite offers using 'can'. For example, 'Can I help you with your homework?' or 'Can you lend me your book?' I will collect these next class, and they will help reinforce what we learned today."
"To wrap up, today we learned about the importance of politeness and how to effectively use the verb 'can' in making polite requests and offers.
Does anyone have any questions or comments about what we covered? Your feedback is valuable in ensuring we all feel comfortable and confident in learning. Thank you for your participation today; I look forward to seeing your homework next time!"
Write five polite requests using the verb 'can'. For example, "Can I borrow your pen?" Ensure that each request is appropriate for a New Zealand context.
Create five polite offers using the verb 'can'. For example, "Can I help you with your homework?" Make sure your offers reflect everyday scenarios in New Zealand.
Imagine you are in a café in New Zealand. Write a short dialogue between two people where they use 'can' to make polite requests and offers.
Reflect on a situation where you had to ask for permission. In a few sentences, describe how you used politeness in your approach and the outcome.
Think about a time when someone requested something from you using 'can'. What about their request made it polite or impolite? Write a brief response.
As an extension task, research and write a paragraph about the cultural significance of politeness in New Zealand communication styles. Include examples of how politeness is expressed in different contexts.