Dad Jokes: The Art of Bad Jokes
ESL Lesson PlansDad Jokes: The Art of Bad Jokes

Dad Jokes: The Art of Bad Jokes

This ESL lesson plan is designed for group learning and helps teens and adults at the B2-C1 level improve their listening, reading and speaking skills through the fun topic of dad jokes. The 60-minute session includes reading tasks, joke analysis, and video activities. The lesson follows a clear structure with warm-up video discussion, comprehension tasks, and interactive exercises to build confidence and fluency. Perfect for learners who enjoy humor and want to boost their English in a relaxed, engaging setting.

Skills

  • Can understand standard spoken language, live or broadcast on both familiar and unfamiliar topics normally encountered in personal, social, academic or vocational life.
  • Can understand humour, irony and implicit cultural references and pick up nuances of meaning.
Online Interactive
Based on CEFR
Fully Customizable
1

Watch the video below, which is part of a YouTube challenge. Describe what's going on and try to figure out what the rules might be.

2

Read the definition of the term "dad joke." Based on the definition, do you think the jokes in the video fit this category? Why or why not?

3

In small groups, discuss these questions.

4

Read the article below and answer the questions.

5

Read these opinions. In pairs, discuss which one you agree with the most and why.

6

Take a look at these jokes from the video in Task 1. Do you think they're funny? What is the wordplay?

Other lessons in this category

B1
Modern and Contemporary Art Styles

This ESL lesson plan on art styles encourages B1-level students to explore modern and contemporary art through engaging listening and speaking activities in a group setting. In this 60-minute lesson, students will learn about different art movements, watch a video comparing modern and contemporary art, and engage in discussions about their preferences. By the end, students will share their favorite art style, practicing descriptive language and critical thinking skills.

A1-A2
Giving Directions in English

This ESL lesson plan introduces basic directional vocabulary and phrases, perfect for beginners learning how to give and follow directions. Through activities like matching exercises, listening to conversations, and practicing simple phrases, students will gain confidence in asking for and giving directions.

C1
Cross-Cultural Communication in Business

This ESL lesson plan on cross-cultural communication focuses on reading, speaking, and group discussion. Using a flipped model, students read an article on cultural differences in business and prepare to discuss real-world culture clash scenarios. The 90-minute lesson targets C1-level learners, helping them interpret cultural practices and improve communication strategies within global teams.

B2
Once Upon a Time...

In this B2-level ESL lesson plan, teens will dive into the elements of short stories by creating their own narratives. The 60-minute session features engaging group discussions, exercises focused on storytelling vocabulary, and writing skill-building tasks. Students will start by reflecting on their favorite fairy tales, participate in pair discussions, and analyze a short story to identify essential storytelling phrases. By the end of the lesson, they will craft their own short stories, beginning with "Once upon a time," to creatively express their experiences, feelings, and reactions.

B1
Household Chores

This ESL lesson plan guides adults and teens through the language of household chores and note-writing in a 45-minute individual reading and writing activity designed for B1 learners. Students will read a sample note, learn key vocabulary for common household tasks, and practice writing their own clear instructions.

B2
Cultural Diversity: Argentina's Day of Respect

This ESL lesson plan develops reading and speaking skills for B2-level teens and adults, focusing on Argentina’s Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity. Students engage in activities such as matching facts about Argentina, discussing the meaning of cultural diversity, and building vocabulary. The lesson includes reading comprehension exercises followed by a group discussion on organizing a cultural event, fostering awareness and inclusivity in the classroom.

A2-B1
When in Rome

This ESL lesson plan explores Italian cultural traditions in a group setting, targeting A2-B1 learners. Students will discuss local customs, read about famous Italian habits like Aperitivo Hour and La Pausa, and engage in activities to understand the meaning of "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." The lesson focuses on improving speaking and reading skills while encouraging cultural awareness.

B1
The Healthy Talk

This lesson plan helps B1 ESL students practice communication in medical settings. Students will watch a video, match useful hospital phrases, and role-play situations like making appointments, describing symptoms, and asking for a sick note. The lesson plan builds skills in giving and receiving information, essential for dealing with real-life health scenarios.