Teaching Design for Unit 4: Interpersonal Communication
Grade Level:8th Grade
Unit Title:Why don’t you talk to your parents?
I. Teaching Objectives
1. Language Knowledge:
- Master key vocabulary: argue, communication, explain, offer, pressure, relation, etc.
- Use target structures:
- Giving advice: Why don’t you…? / You should… / How about…?
- Expressing problems: I’m worried about… / I don’t know how to…
2. Language Skills:
- Develop listening skills to identify problems and advice in conversations.
- Practice speaking through role-plays about interpersonal conflicts.
- Write a letter giving constructive advice.
3. Emotional & Cultural Awareness:
- Foster empathy and problem-solving strategies for resolving conflicts.
- Discuss cultural differences in family communication styles.
II. Key Points & Difficulties
- Key Points:
- Using modal verbs and phrases to give advice.
- Understanding tone and context in dialogues.
- Difficulties:
- Applying advice structures appropriately in real-life scenarios.
- Distinguishing between formal and informal language in writing.
III. Teaching Procedures
Period 1: Listening & Speaking (Problems and Advice)
1. Warm-up
- Show pictures of people arguing/communicating. Ask: *What’s happening? Have you faced similar problems?*
2. Pre-listening
- Teach vocabulary with flashcards (e.g., *pressure, argue*).
- Predict content: *What problems might the speakers discuss?*
3. Listening
- Play the textbook audio (e.g., 2a/2b). Students fill in blanks and answer questions.
- Focus: Identifying key advice phrases (*Why don’t you…?*).
4. Post-listening
- Role-play: In pairs, act out a problem (e.g., "I fought with my friend") and give advice.
Ⅳ. Homework
- Interview a family member about their communication habits. Write a reflection.
- Practice advice structures using a language app (e.g., Duolingo or Quizlet).
Ⅴ. Teaching Resources
- Textbook audio clips, flashcards, sample letters, multimedia projector.
This design balances language skills, critical thinking, and real-world application. Adjust activities based on class dynamics and progress!