Topic discussion based on the idea of role models and setting good or bad examples.
Target language:
Role Model (good / bad)
To admire / look up to someone
To set an example (good / bad)
To be a good / bad influence
Put this picture of Paris Hilton on the board.
What do you think of Paris Hilton?
Is she a good role model? Why? Why not?
Does she set a good example for teenagers / children?
Put the picture of Michelle Obama on the board and ask the same questions.
Brainstorm language for good / bad role models.
Here are some examples, give out dictionaries if the students have trouble.
| Bad Role Models | Good Role Models |
| Selfish / tight-fisted | Unselfish, |
| Greedy | generous |
| Arrogant / self centred / full of himself | Modest / humble |
| untrustworthy | trustworthy |
| Bad-tempered / moody | Easy going |
| dishonest | honest |
| Lazy | Hard-working |
In Groups of 3-4 discuss these questions.
Who was your most important role model when you were a child? Who did you look up to / admire?
Who is your most important role model now?
Do you think you are a good role model?
Who do you think was a good / bad influence on you when you were a child?
Were you a good / bad influence on your friends?
Students report back to teacher.
Print a set of the following pictures for each group:
https://skydrive.live.com/redir?resid=79CFF252BEEA0A7D!231&authkey=!AFCzgQzYumAa1Ng
In groups students answer the following questions referring to each picture:
Do people admire or look up to this person?
Is he or she a good role model? Why? Why not?
Does he / she set a good example? Why? How?
Is he / she a good influence on society?
Wrap up
Open the discussion up to the class and see if there are any differences of opinion. Get students to justify their opinions.