Running workshops: using gerunds and infinitives

Summary

This 90-minute ESL lesson for B2 learners explores Running workshops: using gerunds and infinitives through a real article. Across 10 interactive exercises, you'll develop reading comprehension, vocabulary, practical communication, speaking skills — all built around authentic English content.

What you'll practise:

• 5 key vocabulary items with definitions and usage notes
• Real-world phrases for managing a workshop session
• Gap-fill and cloze exercises to test vocabulary in context
• Matching exercise to connect terms with their meanings
• Error correction to sharpen grammar awareness
• A reading passage to practise newly learned language

Lesson activities (10 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. Comprehension — Answer questions to check your understanding of the main ideas and supporting details.
3. Vocabulary — Learn key words and expressions from the article, with definitions and usage notes.
4. Matching — Connect words, phrases, or concepts to their correct counterparts.
5. Error correction — Find and fix the mistake in each sentence — a great grammar workout.
6. Practical English — Learn phrases for managing a workshop session — ready to use in real conversations.
7. Cloze passage — Fill in blanks within a connected text to practise vocabulary in context.
8. Reading — Read a short passage on the topic and answer comprehension questions.
9. 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 article:

• Get the ball rolling — to start an activity, project, or discussion.
• Hands-on approach — a method of learning that involves active participation and practical experience, not just theory.
• Key takeaway — the main point or most important piece of information to remember from a presentation, meeting, or workshop.
• Breakout session — a smaller group activity or discussion that is separate from the main workshop, allowing for more focused work.
• To flesh something out — to add more details or substance to an idea or plan to make it more complete.

Grammar

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

Practical English

Managing a workshop session

When you're leading a workshop, you need to do more than just present information. You have to manage the group, keep the energy up, and make sure everyone is involved. These phrases will help you guide the session smoothly and professionally.

Phrases you'll learn:

• "Alright, let's dive right in with our first topic." — a dynamic way to start the workshop or a new section.
• "I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on this." — used to invite opinions and start a discussion.
• "That's a great point, but in the interest of time, we should probably move on." — a polite way to redirect the conversation and stick to the agenda.
• "Does that make sense so far?" — a way to check for understanding before continuing.
• "So, to quickly recap, the main points are..." — used to summarize a discussion or presentation segment.