Should We Forgive These Crimes?
ESL Lesson PlansShould We Forgive These Crimes?

Should We Forgive These Crimes?

This ESL lesson plan explores the concept of forgiveness in the context of various types of crime. It is designed for B1-B2 level teens and adults. In this 60-minute group discussion, students will engage in thoughtful debates, practice vocabulary related to crime and justice, and examine cases that test the boundaries of forgiveness. With thought-provoking exercises, the lesson enhances speaking skills, and develops reasoning abilities as students discuss, evaluate, and defend their viewpoints on complex moral issues.

Skills

  • Can explain whether or not they approve of what someone has done and give reasons to justify this opinion.
Online Interactive
Based on CEFR
Fully Customizable
1

Do you agree with this quote? Share your thoughts.

Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.
- Paul Boese
Your answer:
2

Glossary

3

Which opinion do you identify with the most and why?

4

Discuss the following questions.

5

Match the words to their definitions.

6

In pairs, read about these two crimes. Go back to the questions from Exercise #4 and decide if this crime deserves forgiveness. What factors did you consider when deciding if these crimes deserve forgiveness or not?

7

In small groups, take a look at some pros and cons of forgiving certain crimes. Complete the list with your ideas. After 5 minutes, share them with the class.

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