What is this lesson about?

This gratitude speaking ESL lesson plan helps B1–B2 learners express thankfulness, joy, and optimism in English. Students expand their vocabulary, learn phrasal verbs for spreading positivity, and practise uplifting idioms through matching and engaging speaking activities that build both language and emotional awareness.

What language will students learn?

Learners focus on three integrated sets of target language:

• Vocabulary: gratitude, appreciation, contentment, optimism, generosity, kindness, empathy, joy

• Phrasal verbs: pay off, look back on, reach out, give back, spread around, count on, lift up, open up

• Idioms: count your blessings, feel on top of the world, light up one’s life, in high spirits, spread the love, on cloud nine

How do students practise?

The lesson builds fluency and reflection through a clear sequence:

• Warm-up discussion about gratitude and joy in everyday life.

• Vocabulary matching and short personal examples for natural use.

• Phrasal verb practice through relatable, open-ended sentences.

• Idiom activities for authentic fluency and positive self-expression.

• Speaking tasks to share personal experiences and moments of kindness.
  

Why is this lesson useful?

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

• Express gratitude and joy using a wide range of natural expressions.

• Build confidence when discussing positivity and wellbeing.

• Use phrasal verbs and idioms fluently in real conversations.

• Create a kind, supportive, and uplifting classroom atmosphere.

  
  

Who is it for?

Designed for intermediate adult learners (B1–B2), this lesson is perfect for wellbeing-focused ESL classes, both online and in person. It encourages reflection, storytelling, and emotionally intelligent communication while strengthening fluency and vocabulary in a feel-good, real-world context.