1. Warm-up
a. When was the last time someone encouraged you?
b. How do you usually support your friends or family?
c. My best friend moved to another country. I feel really sad and lonely.
2. Form phrases to express encouragement
Answers
3. Discussion
4. Role-Play
Answers
👧: Ugh… I really want to quit my job. My boss was so rude to me again today.
👦🏾: Oh no… I’m really sorry to hear that. What happened?
👧: He shouted at me in front of everyone. I didn’t even do anything wrong.
👦🏾: That sounds awful. But hey—hang in there. You’re stronger than you think.
👧: I don’t know… I feel so tired and unmotivated. Maybe I should just give up.
👦🏾: Don’t give up. You’ve come this far—stick at it a little longer. Or maybe talk to someone at work about how you’re feeling.
👧: I’ve thought about it… but I’m nervous.
👦🏾: Just do it. What’s the worst that can happen? At least you’ll know you tried.
👧: You think so?
👦🏾: Absolutely. Give it your best, and if it still doesn’t feel right, then it’s okay to move on. Either way, I’ve got your back.
👧: Thanks. That really means a lot.
5. Common Expressions
Answers
1. It’s worth a shot – We say this when we are not 100% sure, but we think it’s a good idea to try. It is commonly used in American English. In British English, people might say – Why not give it a go? instead.
Ex: You might fail, but it’s worth a shot.
Ex: I don’t know if they’ll say yes, but it’s worth a shot asking.
2. You might as well – We say this when there’s no good reason not to do something, so it makes sense to do it. It’s like saying, “Since there’s nothing else to do, you may as well do this.”
Ex: You might as well take the bus since it’s raining and you don’t have an umbrella.
Ex: The shop is closing soon. You might as well go in and get what you need now.
Answers
6. Encourage your partner to do it
7. Discussion
a. What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do, but are too nervous to try?
b. Why do you want to do it?
c. What has stopped you from doing it?