Lesson Description

What is this lesson about?

This laughter ESL lesson plan is designed for upper-intermediate learners (B2–C1) who want to explore the fascinating science of why we laugh, how it affects the body, and what makes it contagious. Students expand their vocabulary with terms like endorphins, cortisol, reflexes, and vocalisation, while developing their reading, listening, and speaking skills. The lesson blends humour, science, and wellbeing to make language learning engaging and memorable.

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How do students learn the new language?

Learners follow a clear, step-by-step sequence:

• Warm-up discussion questions on laughter and health.

• Vocabulary matching and gap-fill with key scientific and wellness terms.

• Video activity with comprehension questions about the science of laughter.

• Idioms & speaking practice with expressions such as crack up and be in stitches.

• Reflection questions to personalise learning and encourage deeper thinking.
   

Why is this lesson useful?

By the end of the session, students can:

• Talk confidently about laughter, health, and human connection.

• Use both scientific vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.

• Understand and discuss key ideas from an authentic video resource.

• Reflect on how laughter influences their own lives and wellbeing.
   

Who is it for?

This laughter ESL lesson plan is ideal for adult learners at the B2–C1 level. Teachers looking for ready-to-use, thought-provoking materials that combine language with wellbeing will find it especially valuable.

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