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Individual with a Samsung Galaxy S5, representing a digital detox concept in an ESL lesson plan.

8 August 2025

B1-B2

VOCABULARY & SPEAKING

$

2.99

Lesson Description

What is this lesson about? This digital detox ESL lesson plan helps B1–B2 learners talk confidently about screen habits, online life, and healthy technology use. Students explore vocabulary, phrasal verbs, and idioms connected to screen time, then put them into practice through engaging speaking activities and personal reflection.

What language will students learn? The lesson introduces three sets of target language:

  • 8 essential vocabulary words: notification, binge-watching, digital detox, blue light, social media detox, multitasking, screen fatigue, digital footprint.

  • 6 phrasal verbs: log off, scroll through, tune out, plug in, zone out, catch up on.

  • 6 idioms: pull the plug, go cold turkey, off the grid, keep someone in the loop, out of touch, glued to the screen.

How do students practise the new language? The plan follows a clear progression:

  • Discussion questions about daily screen use and its effects.

  • Matching & gap-fill tasks to consolidate vocabulary, phrasal verbs, and idioms.

  • Speaking tasks & role-plays where learners suggest and respond to digital wellbeing strategies.

  • Idiomatic discussion prompts to encourage reflection on real experiences with technology.

  • Final reflection questions to connect the lesson to students’ own routines and lifestyle choices.

Why is this lesson useful? By the end of the session, learners will be able to:

  • Talk naturally about screen habits and digital wellbeing.

  • Use practical vocabulary to describe both the challenges and benefits of technology.

  • Apply phrasal verbs and idioms in everyday contexts.

  • Reflect critically on their own digital routines and identify strategies for balance.

What makes this digital detox ESL lesson plan unique? It blends real-world communication skills with wellbeing awareness. Rather than just learning words, students practise meaningful conversations about issues that affect them every day, such as binge-watching, notifications, or the idea of going off the grid.

Who is it for? This lesson is ideal for intermediate adult ESL learners (B1–B2), whether in online or in-person classes. It’s particularly suited for learners interested in wellbeing, lifestyle, and digital balance while developing fluency in English.

Related Lessons

Read our blog post on Digital Wellbeing

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