Do you know all of the ins and outs of the English language? In this lesson, students will discuss language learning. This lesson features a video of a Finnish comedian who talks about American English and how “ass” is the most challenging and complicated English word. Students will learn and practice prefixes and vocabulary relating to this topic. The lesson includes plenty of engaging discussion activities and worksheets that have been developed for adult and teenage learners.

Lesson Objectives

Grammar: Students will learn about prefixes and how they change word meanings. They'll practice using prefixes like "anti-", "hyper-", and "mis-" in different contexts.

Listening: Learners will watch and listen to a video of a Finnish comedian discussing the complexities of the word "ass" in American English, highlighting the subtleties and challenges of language learning.

Speaking: Students will engage in discussions about language learning, sharing their experiences and the difficulties they face, especially with words that have multiple meanings or uses.

Vocabulary: Key vocabulary includes prefixes and their meanings, and phrases like "lazy-ass husband," "overreact," and "misunderstand." Understanding these will help students grasp how prefixes modify word meanings.

Homework: Tasks include exercises on choosing correct answers, matching words with prefixes, using expressions correctly, and correcting sentences with prefix errors. These will reinforce understanding of the lesson's grammar and vocabulary concepts.

Video

“That is a blue-ass shirt.” “Those are badass.” “Move your ass!” Did you know all of these phrases mean something different? Watch this video of a Finnish comedian talking about American English and how “ass” is the most challenging and complicated English word.

Video Transcript

Vocabulary and Pronunciation

stand-up [adjective]: relating to a comedic performance to a live audience

improv [adjective]: relating to improvisation, especially as a theatrical technique

subtle [adjective]: so delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe

scoot over [phrasal verb]: to move one’s sitting self or seat aside so the other person has more space

break a leg [idiom]: an expression that means good luck

sympathize [verb]: to feel or express sympathy; to agree with a sentiment or opinion

curriculum [noun]: the courses offered by an educational institution

globalization [noun]: the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale

overrated [adjective]: rated or valued too highly

underestimate [verb]: to estimate as being less than the actual size, quantity, or number; to place too low a value on

hyperventilation [noun]: rapid or deep breathing, usually caused by anxiety or panic

postgraduate [adjective]: of, relating to, or engaged in formal studies after graduation

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