Environment ESL lesson plans

For ESL teachers looking to address environmental topics, our video-based lesson plans offer a comprehensive approach to exploring important issues related to the environment. Each lesson delves into topics such as climate change, conservation, renewable energy, pollution, sustainable practices, biodiversity, and environmental policies. These relevant topics will engage students in thoughtful discussions and deepen their understanding of environmental issues.

all our worksheets related to the environment

world earth day concept. a man holding a globe and a slogan - do you celebrate earth's day?

Vocabulary: the environment (carbon footprint, renewable resources, endangered species)
Video: Gaylord Nelson and the origins of Earth Day
Grammar: first and second conditionals

1:59

updated

a person holding a loudspeaker and a slogan - how is noise pollution affecting us?

Vocabulary: sounds (barking, whispering, screaming, chirping, honking)
Video: Noise is slowly killing you
Functional language: talk about things that annoy you

4:23

updated

a city skyline and a slogan - which places are most at risk?

Vocabulary: environmental issues and natural disasters
Video: US coastal cities trying to hold back rising sea levels
Synonyms: deal with and run out of

2:23

updated

Organic food waste and a slogan - let's try to reduce our food waste

Collocations: food (unsold food, fussy eater, surplus food)
Video: Canadians get creative in solving food waste problem
Speaking: food waste questionnaire, conversation questions

5:38

rescue teams and people going through the rubble of a collapsed building after an earthquake

Vocabulary: earthquakes
Video: Turkey-Syria earthquake: Death toll rises, rescues dwindle in earthquake aftermath
Speaking: conversation questions, brainstorming

4:28

FREE

zero-waste sustainable Christmas decorations and a slogan - let's try to make Christmas a bit more sustainable!

Vocabulary: sustainable gifts (long-lasting, thoughtful, meaningful, swap, throw away)
Video: 14 tips on how to have a sustainable Christmas
Speaking: conversation questions, brainstorming solutions

4:50

FREE

a man hiking in patagonia and a slogan - "earth is now our only shareholder

Idioms: put your money where your mouth is, lead by example, follow in someone’s footsteps
Adjective intensifiers: dirt cheap, brand new, dead serious
Video: “Patagonia founder donates entire company to fight climate change”

2:47

an illustration of greenwashing and a slogan - greem marketing vs greenwashing

Vocabulary: sustainability buzzwords
Videos: greenwashing examples, how to avoid greenwashing
Speaking: conversation questions, brainstorming

4:40

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Learn more about our teaching materials on environment:

Try out The English Flows’ lesson plans related to the environment if you are an ESL teacher whose students are:

  • Students with a general interest in environmental issues who want to expand their vocabulary and knowledge while improving their English language skills.
  • Travellers and Outdoor Enthusiasts: People who enjoy nature and outdoor activities and want to improve their English to engage with like-minded individuals and participate in eco-tourism.
  • Professionals in Green Industries: Workers in industries such as renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture who need to communicate technical and environmental information in English, as well as individuals working in environmental sectors such as conservation, sustainability, or environmental policy.
  • Activists and Advocates: Environmental activists and advocates who need to effectively communicate their messages, raise awareness, and engage with a global audience in English.

Each lesson features 5-8 pages of material designed to explore environmental topics comprehensively. Environmental issues are broad and relevant subjects that stimulate discussion and engage ESL learners. Delving into topics such as climate change, conservation, or sustainable practices offers numerous opportunities for meaningful language practice and interaction.

Every lesson plan includes

Pre-class online activities
(Free)

In-class activities
(For Full members)

After class: Additional resources
(Free)