Introduction
Negotiation skills are crucial in everyday life, and they play a significant role in language learning and communication. This ESL lesson plan aims to introduce students to the essential vocabulary and phrases used in negotiations, equipping them with the language tools necessary for effective communication in various scenarios. Whether it’s haggling at a market or discussing terms in a business setting, negotiation skills are valuable. By mastering this topic, students can gain confidence and improve their ability to express themselves fluently and persuasively in English.
Vocabulary Building
Vocab
Vocab |
Definition |
|---|---|
Negotiate |
To discuss something formally in order to reach an agreement, especially in business or political situations |
Compromise |
An agreement or a settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions |
Bargain |
To negotiate the terms and conditions of a transaction |
Deal |
(noun) An agreement entered into by two or more parties for their mutual benefit |
‘Win-win’ situation |
A situation, especially in business, where all parties involved can benefit. |
Contextual Usage
– Negotiate: The unions are willing to negotiate.
– Compromise: Both sides will have to compromise.
– Bargain: She likes bargaining when she goes shopping.
– Deal: They made a deal with the real estate agent.
– ‘Win-win’ situation: The new salary scheme is definitely a win-win situation for everyone involved.
ESL Warm-up Activity
To set the tone for the negotiation ESL lesson, start with a role-playing activity where students act as buyers and sellers. Each student will be given a scenario such as buying a car or negotiating a rental agreement. They will then engage in a short negotiation, using the vocabulary and phrases they have learned. This hands-on approach will immediately involve the students and create an immersive learning experience while effectively capturing their attention for the rest of the lesson.
Main ESL Lesson Activities
Role-Play Activity: Buying and Selling
Begin by dividing the class into pairs, designating one student as the buyer and the other as the seller. Provide each pair with a different scenario, such as buying a car or negotiating a salary. Encourage them to use the negotiation vocabulary and phrases learned. After they have completed their negotiations, regroup the class for a discussion on how they felt during the negotiation and what strategies were effective.
Vocabulary Building Game: Negotiation Terms Charades
Create flashcards with negotiation-related terms learned in class. Divide students into two teams. One student from each team will act out the word without speaking, while their team tries to guess it. This game not only reinforces vocabulary but also encourages teamwork and peer teaching.
Listening Comprehension: Negotiation Dialogues
Provide students with recordings of various negotiation dialogues related to business deals, contracts, or everyday scenarios like bargaining at a market. After listening, ask comprehension questions to ensure understanding of both content and context.
Reading & Writing Exercise: Contract Analysis
Distribute sample contracts or agreements (simple ones for lower levels) for students to analyze in pairs or small groups. They can identify key terms, conditions, and contentious points followed by group discussions on possible negotiated changes.
ESL Homework Assignment
As homework, students will be tasked with preparing a short dialogue or script involving a negotiation scenario. They should incorporate the negotiation vocabulary and phrases learned in class. This assignment will provide an opportunity for students to practice using the language in a practical context and showcase their comprehension of negotiation skills.
Conclusion
Key Points Recap
In this ESL lesson plan on negotiation, students learned essential vocabulary and phrases for effective communication in various negotiation scenarios. They engaged in activities such as role-playing, vocabulary games, listening comprehension, and contract analysis to enhance their understanding of the topic.
Application and Reflection
Reflecting on what they have learned, students can apply negotiation skills not only in business settings but also in everyday situations involving decision-making and compromise. Understanding how to negotiate effectively helps them build confidence and fluency in English language development while also fostering valuable life skills.
Why this topic is great for ESL learning
The negotiation ESL lesson plan is an excellent topic for language learning because it enhances crucial communication skills. Negotiation itself is a fundamental aspect of everyday life, and being able to effectively negotiate in English provides learners with a practical skill set that they can apply in various personal and professional situations. By engaging in negotiation activities, students develop their vocabulary, listening comprehension, speaking fluency, and critical thinking abilities. Additionally, negotiating requires active participation and problem-solving, making it an interactive and engaging topic that encourages students to collaborate and express themselves confidently in English. Overall, the negotiation ESL lesson plan fosters language development while empowering learners with essential life skills.
