What is this lesson about?

This advanced ESL lesson explores the attention economy and how modern digital platforms compete for people’s time and focus. Students discuss how social media companies capture attention, design addictive features, and turn user engagement into profit. Through thought-provoking discussion and reflection, learners analyse their own digital habits while examining the psychological and economic forces behind modern technology platforms.

What language will students learn?

Students explore natural expressions related to technology, digital behaviour, and attention.

How do students practise?

Learners develop fluency through a conversation-first sequence:

• Digital habits warm-up discussion

• Personal phone-use reflection activity

• Thought-provoking quotes about the attention economy

• Video reaction and idea discussion

• Analysis of key ideas from the video

• Social media behaviour discussion

• Ethical debate on tech company responsibility

• Future scenarios about technology regulation

• Personal reflection on digital habits
  

Why is this lesson useful?

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Discuss social media, technology, and digital habits confidently

• Express opinions about the ethics of the attention economy

• Use natural expressions related to online behaviour

• Analyse how technology influences attention and behaviour
  

Who is it for?

This lesson is designed for advanced adult ESL learners (C1–C2) who want to discuss modern technology, social media, and digital behaviour while developing fluency in complex discussions.