Love in the time of AI

Discover how technology is reshaping modern relationships in our interactive lesson, Love in the Time of AI. This lesson explores emotional connections in the digital age, including the rise of AI companions, the impact of technology on human intimacy, and strategies to maintain meaningful relationships. Students will engage in listening, speaking, vocabulary, and reflection activities that develop critical thinking, communication skills, and emotional awareness. Ideal for ESL learners interested in the intersection of AI, human behavior, and relationships. Other lessons you might like are “Modern dating“, “What makes a relationship last?“, “Is the AI boom a bubble?”, “Idioms: love“, “Phrasal verbs: relationships“.

Activities Overview:

Speaking: Students read the quote: “We are more connected than ever, yet many feel more alone”. Discussion questions prompt learners to reflect on technology, loneliness, and modern relationship challenges. Next, students look at lists of things people value in a relationship, and skills that help build a successful relationship, and choose the ones that matter most to them. This activity also introduced key vocabulary for this lesson.

Listening: Students watcha video called “Japanese woman marries AI boyfriend as tech begins to make lasting global impact”. First viewing focuses on filling in missing information and noting key facts. Comprehension questions target the speaker’s insights on loneliness, AI intimacy trends, and practical steps to prioritize human connection.

Speaking – Post-Listening Discussion: Learners reflect on the video and answer guided questions about AI as a supplement versus a replacement for human connection. Discussion includes potential social skill effects when interacting with AI instead of humans. Students also identify which relationship needs might be easier or harder to meet with AI versus humans.

Speaking – AI Companions Discussion: Learners analyze reasons people use AI companions, including emotional support, confidence building, and stress management. Small group discussions explore when AI use is justified and when it may indicate skills gaps in human relationships.

Vocabulary – Word Formation: Focused exercises help learners understand and apply key terms such as validation, companionship, reliability, intimacy, and accountability. Students complete sentences with the correct word forms and discuss meanings in context.

For more speaking practice, and to review key vocabulary from this lesson, you can use the printable conversation cards.