Starting Off

1. Do you prefer expressing your thoughts by speaking or writing? Why?
2. If you could write a letter to yourself in the future, what would you say?
3. Imagine you’re in a place where no one understands your language. How would you express yourself?

Listening

1. Listen to this long conversation and answer the questions.

2. Listen to this long conversation and answer the questions.

3. Read the following statements carefully. Based on the information provided in the listening audio, decide if each statement is True or False.

4. Read the following statements carefully. Based on the information provided in the listening audio, fill-in-the blank with the correct answer.

Speaking

Activity 1: Warm-Up
Before we start, let’s think about expressing ourselves.

• How do you feel when you can express your thoughts and ideas clearly?
• Have you ever had trouble expressing yourself? How did it feel?
• Do you think it is important to express your feelings and thoughts? Why or why not?
• How do you usually express your feelings when you are happy or excited?
• How about when you are sad or upset? How do you express those feelings?

Activity 2: Discussion Questions
Let’s discuss these questions in pairs or small groups. Take turns sharing your opinions and listen to your partner’s thoughts.

• How do you usually express your thoughts when you have a strong opinion?
• Have you ever been misunderstood when you were expressing yourself? How did you handle it?
• What is your favorite way to express yourself (speaking, writing, art, music)? Why?
• How do you feel when someone listens carefully to what you’re saying?
• Do you think it’s easier to express yourself in writing or speaking? Why?
• How can expressing yourself clearly help you in life?
• Some people say “communication is key.” Do you agree with this? Why or why not?
• If you had to express an important idea to a group, how would you prepare for it?
• How do you feel when someone expresses themselves in a way that is different from yours?

Activity 3: Role-Play; Expressing Yourself
Now, let’s do a role-play! You’ll practice how to express yourself in different situations.
Role 1: Expressing Your Opinion
Imagine you’re in a group discussion, and you have an opinion to share. How would you express yourself confidently and clearly?
Use phrases like:

• “In my opinion…”
• “I think that…”
• “I believe that…”
• “What I feel is…”
• “Let me explain why I think this…”

Role 2: Listening and Responding
Imagine your friend is expressing an opinion, and you need to listen and respond. How would you show that you’re listening carefully and respectfully?
Use phrases like:

• “I see what you mean.”
• “That’s a good point, but…”
• “I understand how you feel.”
• “I agree with you because…”
• “Let me share my thoughts on that…”

Activity 4: Debate; How to Express Yourself
Now, we’ll have a debate. There are two teams, and each team has a different point of view.
Team 1: Speaking is the Best Way to Express Yourself
Argue why speaking is the best way to express yourself. Think about how speaking allows for clear communication, immediate feedback, and a personal connection with others.

Team 2: Writing is the Best Way to Express Yourself
Argue why writing is the best way to express yourself. Think about how writing allows you to organize your thoughts, express feelings deeply, and have time to think before sharing your ideas.

Debate Guidelines:
Each team will have 3-4 minutes to present their argument.
You can use phrases like:

• “I believe that…”
• “In my opinion…”
• “One reason why speaking is better is…”
• “Writing allows you to…”

After the debate, we’ll have a short discussion. Which team’s arguments did you find more convincing, and why?

Reflection: What Expressing Yourself Means
Take a moment to think about the following:

• Why is it important to express yourself?
• How do you feel when you are able to express your thoughts or feelings clearly?
• How can expressing yourself help you in different situations, like at school, work, or with friends?

Do you find it easier to express yourself when you are happy or when you are upset? Why?
Feel free to share your answers with the class!

Tips for Expressing Yourself

• Be Clear: When expressing yourself, try to organize your thoughts and say what you mean.
• Be Honest: It’s okay to share your true feelings, even if they are difficult.
• Be Respectful: Always listen to others, and remember that everyone’s feelings and thoughts are important.
• Be Creative: Use different ways to express yourself, like speaking, writing, drawing, or music, depending on what works best for you.
• Stay Calm: When talking about sensitive topics, try to stay calm and explain your point of view respectfully