Do you believe there is value in being an idiot? In this lessson, students will discuss knowledge and intelligence. This lesson features a video of Simon Sinek explaining how asking a lot of questions can help something complicated become very simple. Students will learn and practice vocabulary and idioms relating to the topic. The lesson includes plenty of engaging discussion activities and worksheets that have been developed for adult and teenage learners.

Lesson Objectives

To develop speaking and listening skills

To discuss the topic of knowledge and intelligence

To learn and practice new vocabulary words relating to the topic

Video

Would you feel uncomfortable being the idiot in the room? Have you ever been nervous about admitting something you didn’t know? Watch this video of an interview with Simon Sinek in which he explains the value of being an idiot.

Video Transcript

Vocabulary and Pronunciation

pick your brain [idiom]: to obtain ideas or information from someone

astute [adjective]: having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage; clever or intelligent

egghead [noun]: a person who is highly academic or studious; an intellectual

ingenious [adjective]: (of a person) clever, original, and inventive

quick-witted [adjective]: showing or characterized by an ability to think or respond quickly and effectively

whiz kid [noun]: a young person who is outstandingly skillful or successful at something

armchair expert [noun]: a person who knows a lot about a given subject but has no real experience or understanding of it

mover and shaker [noun]: a person who is influential and wants to make big changes

go-getter [noun]: a person who is determined and eager to be successful

book smart [adjective]: having knowledge obtained by reading and studying, rather than by practical experience

street smart [adjective]: having enough experience and knowledge about life in the city to be able to deal with difficult or dangerous situations

flippant [adjective]: lacking proper respect or seriousness

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