B2

Public speaking: handling difficult questions

Public speaking — a B2 English lesson. Practise indirect language and expand vocabulary around handling questions in presentations.

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Contents

Summary

This 60-minute ESL lesson for B2 learners explores Public speaking: handling difficult questions through a real video. Across 6 interactive exercises, you'll develop listening comprehension, vocabulary, speaking skills — all built around authentic English content.

What you'll practise:

  • 5 key vocabulary items with definitions and usage notes

Lesson activities (6 exercises)

Each exercise builds on the previous one. Work through them in order for the best learning experience.

  1. Warm-up — Discussion questions to activate what you already know about the topic.
  2. Watch — Watch the video and note the main arguments and examples.
  3. Comprehension — Answer questions to check your understanding of the main ideas and supporting details.
  4. Vocabulary — Learn key words and expressions from the video, with definitions and usage notes.
  5. True / False — Test your detailed understanding — decide if each statement matches the source.
  6. Discussion — Reflect on the topic and share your opinions using the language you've learned.

Vocabulary

This lesson introduces 5 key terms drawn directly from the video:

  • To think on your feet — to be able to think and react quickly, especially in a difficult or unexpected situation.
  • To field questions — to receive and deal with a series of questions, especially from an audience or journalists.
  • To go off on a tangent — to suddenly start talking about a subject that is not directly connected with the main topic.
  • To buy some time — to do or say something in order to delay having to make a decision or give a direct answer.
  • To put someone on the spot — to force someone to answer a difficult question or make a decision when they are not prepared.

Grammar

This lesson includes a grammar focus with clear explanations and practice exercises.