Thanksgiving: Origin and Traditions
ESL Lesson PlansThanksgiving: Origin and Traditions

Thanksgiving: Origin and Traditions

This ESL lesson plan explores the history and traditions of Thanksgiving in a group setting, targeting intermediate learners. Students will watch a video about the origins of Thanksgiving, complete listening comprehension exercises, and engage in discussions about cultural traditions. The lesson focuses on improving speaking and listening skills while encouraging students to reflect on the significance of holidays and family traditions.

Skills

  • Can follow in outline straightforward short talks on familiar topics, provided these are delivered in clearly articulated standard language or a familiar variety.
Online Interactive
Based on CEFR
Fully Customizable
1

Read the beginning of Lily and Emma's conversation about Thanksgiving. Can you answer the question Emma asked?

L
Lily
Hey, Emma! Are you ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow?
E
Emma
Of course! I can't wait to see my family and eat all the delicious food.
L
Lily
What can you tell me about the history of Thanksgiving?
E
Emma
I know that it's about the pilgrims, but do you know who they were?
2

Look at the words in each group below. Do you understand their meaning? If not, ask your teacher or partner for help. With a partner, create one sentence for each group of words. Make sure your sentence includes all the words in the group.

3

Watch the video about the history of Thanksgiving and answer the following questions.

4

Glossary

5

Watch the video again and fill in the gaps.

6

Discuss the following questions in pairs.