B2 – Body Positivity: Myth or Reality?

Description

A B2-level body image speaking ESL lesson focused on discussing body positivity, social pressure, and how appearance affects the way people are treated. Ideal for learners developing their ability to express opinions, respond to controversial ideas, and take part in meaningful discussions.

Students explore the topic through an E! News video about body positivity, which provides authentic language and a thought-provoking perspective. The lesson includes prediction tasks, listening for gist and detail, vocabulary development, discussion, and writing.

Warmer: Body Positivity in Advertising

Students look at two advertisements (Dove and Nike) and discuss what they can see and the message behind them. This activates prior knowledge and introduces the topic.

Listening for Gist

Students predict the missing word in the sentence Body positivity is a ______ and then watch the video to check their ideas.

Listening for Detail

Students complete a multiple-choice task focusing on key details from the video, such as the speaker’s experiences and feelings.

Language Focus

Students analyse and practise key vocabulary such as resentful, empowered, left out, cop-out, sold out, and nuanced, which help them express more complex opinions.

Vocabulary in Context: Social Media Comments

Students read adapted Reddit-style comments and complete gaps using the target vocabulary. This helps them see how the language is used in real contexts.

Speaking: Agree or Disagree

Students discuss which opinions they agree or disagree with, explaining their ideas using the new vocabulary.

Writing: Your Own Comment + Replying to a Comment

Students write their own short comment answering the question Is body positivity a lie? and practise expressing a balanced opinion. Then they exchange their comments and write short replies, agreeing or disagreeing and giving reasons.

Discussion: Body Image and Society

Students take part in a whole-class discussion, sharing their opinions about body positivity and reflecting on social pressure and media influence.