Combatting ageism at the workplace
Lesson plan overview
This B2–C1 ESL worksheet focuses on ageism in the workplace and the benefits of intergenerational teams. It explores how age discrimination can affect both older and younger workers, and how organisations can build more inclusive, high-performing teams. It is ideal for learners interested in HR, business communication, and workplace culture. Students develop key vocabulary related to employment, career progression, and bias, while also building critical speaking skills. Other related lessons include “Stereotypes“, and “Societal expectations“.
Speaking: Lead-in and Discussion
The first activity prompts students to reflect on existing stereotypes about different generations (Millennials, Gen Z, Baby Boomers). Then, they discuss a few questions given.
Vocabulary: Age discrimination
Students read about different types of age discrimination older employees might face, and learn expressions such as bias, layoffs, to coast, and set in your own ways. They complete a gap-fill practice activity, and then discuss how age discrimination might affect younger employees as well. Next, they learn a second set of vocabulary (career progression, go up the ladder, lateral move). They practice completing sentences with their own ideas and then discussing them with a partner.
Listening: Combatting Ageism at Work
Students watch a video on “Tips on combating ageism at work” and complete comprehension tasks based on key ideas from the speaker. They listen for strategies to challenge stereotypes, build a personal brand, and support continuous career growth. A follow-up multiple-choice activity checks detailed understanding of recommendations such as mentoring, visibility at work, and managing perceptions across age groups.
Speaking: Intergenerational Teams and Critical Reflection
In the final speaking section, students discuss the value of intergenerational teams, including why mixed-age workplaces often show higher engagement and stronger problem-solving abilities. They reflect on what different generations can learn from each other and evaluate how well age diversity is managed in workplaces they know. Students also consider real examples of ageism and discuss strategies for challenging it in professional environments.
For more speaking practice, you can use the printable conversation cards.
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Teacher’s lesson plan
Student’s worksheet
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Pre-class activities
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In-class activities
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Additional resources
Each video-based lesson plan includes links to additional resources (videos and articles), which are FREE can be found online (in the pre-class activities page. These links aim to extend the learning experience, enabling students to connect classroom knowledge with real-world applications.
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Teacher’s lesson plan
Student’s worksheet
Student’s interactive PDF
Conversation cards PDF
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