The ‘Buy Nothing’ movement

This intermediate ESL lesson introduces students to the “Buy Nothing” movement while exploring consumerism, the sharing economy, and sustainable living. Students will expand their vocabulary to describe items and their condition and engage in discussions about giving a second life to possessions. Other lessons you might like are “Throwaway culture”, “What happens to our returns”, “Stop food waste”, “Spring cleaning“, and “Phrasal verbs: the environment”.

Speaking: Students begin by discussing their shopping habits and reflecting on impulse purchases. This activity encourages learners to think critically about their consumption patterns. Then, students discuss a few statements, saying whether they are true for them or not.

Vocabulary Development: Students learn pre-listening vocabulary (e.g., swap, pre-loved items, thrift store, give away, sharing economy, declutter). To practice, they complete 8 dialogues with the correct response. Then they engage in a pre-listening discussion.

Listening: Students watch part of the video “How to Take Part in the ‘Buy Nothing’ Movement” and complete a listening comprehension activity. Afterward, they answer discussion questions, deepening their understanding of the movement and its principles.

Reading: Students read three short posts from people giving away items and match the items to the correct post. This activity introduces students to the functional language used in decluttering and item exchange contexts.

Functional Language: Students learn how to describe an item’s condition (expressions related to the item being worn out, gently used, or in excellent condition). They then practice by writing their own post to give away an item, applying their new vocabulary in a practical writing exercise.

For additional speaking opportunities, use the provided conversation cards.