אוסף אמין שנבנה מתוך ניסיון כיתתי עשיר על ידי שני מורים פעילים בהוראת אנגלית.

זה עובד. זה בדוק. פשוט, קל ובחינם.

Vocabulary lesson plan & materials

Behaviour and Manners

A B2–C1 lesson pack about politeness, etiquette, social behaviour, cultural differences, workplace manners, communication and respectful interaction.

  • Vocabulary
  • Reading
  • Video
  • Speaking
  • Writing
  • Etiquette
1

Lesson overview

From everyday politeness to cultural and professional etiquette.

Learning focus

Students develop language for describing good and bad behaviour, read and work with a video for detail, discuss etiquette and cultural differences, evaluate different attitudes to manners, and develop personal and argumentative writing.

The source labels the pack as “advanced grammar”, but it does not contain a distinct grammar syllabus or grammar practice. The actual strength of the lesson is vocabulary, reading and video comprehension, discussion and extended writing.

2

Active vocabulary

Core language used throughout the lesson.

manners
behaviour
polite
rude
courteous
well-behaved
to make a fuss
to keep quiet
to apologise
to say please
good habit
bad habit
to be considerate of others
to go overboard
to break the ice
etiquette
attentive
respectful
3

Why Good Manners Matter

B2 reading about behaviour, habits and social interaction.

Behaviour and Manners

B2

Behaving appropriately and having good manners is important in all aspects of life. Whether it's at home, at work, or in public, our behaviour can affect how others perceive us. Being polite, courteous, and well-behaved can make a positive impression on people, while being rude and making a fuss can have the opposite effect.

One way to show good manners is by apologising when we make a mistake. Saying sorry can go a long way towards making things right and showing that we are considerate of others. Another simple way to show good manners is by saying please and thank you. These small words communicate respect and gratitude.

It's also important to be mindful of our habits. Good habits, such as being attentive and respectful towards others, can help build positive relationships. On the other hand, bad habits, such as interrupting others or going overboard with jokes, can create tension and cause discomfort.

Etiquette is another aspect of good behaviour. Knowing how to act in different social situations can help us navigate them more smoothly. For example, knowing how to break the ice with new people can make social events more enjoyable.

Overall, being mindful of our behaviour and manners can make a big difference in how others perceive us. By being polite, courteous, and well-behaved, we can create positive relationships and make a good impression on the people around us.

Why Good Manners Matter — Fill in the Blanks

Complete the text with words from the original reading.

appropriatelymannersaspectsbehaviourperceivewell-behavedimpressionrudefussoppositeapologisingconsideraterespecthabitsattentiverespectfulrelationshipstensionetiquettesocialsmoothlyto break the icemindfulcourteouscreate

Behaving 1 and having good 2 is important in all 3 of life. Our 4 can affect how others 5 us. Being polite, courteous, and 6 can make a positive 7, while being 8 and making a 9 can have the 10 effect.

One way to show good 11 is by 12 when we make a mistake. Saying sorry shows that we are 13 of others. Saying please and thank you communicates 14 and gratitude.

It is important to be mindful of our 15. Being 16 and 17 can help build positive 18. Bad habits can create 19.

20 is another aspect of good behaviour. Knowing how to act in different 21 situations helps us navigate them 22. Knowing how 23 can make social events more enjoyable.

Being 24 of our behaviour and manners can make a difference. By being polite and 25, we can 26 positive relationships.

Why Good Manners Matter — Comprehension Questions

Answer in full sentences.

  1. Why are appropriate behaviour and good manners important?
  2. How can our behaviour affect other people's perception of us?
  3. What are some ways to show good manners?
  4. How can saying sorry help make things right?
  5. What do please and thank you communicate?
  6. Why should we be mindful of our habits?
  7. Which bad habits can create tension and discomfort?
  8. What is etiquette, and why is it important?
  9. How can knowing how to act in social situations help us?
  10. What is the overall message of the text?
4

Etiquette and Cultural Awareness

B2–C1 reading about habits, social behaviour and cultural differences.

The Role of Behaviour and Manners

B2–C1

Behaviour and manners play an important role in our daily lives. They reflect how we interact with others and how we present ourselves to the world. Being polite and courteous shows that we are respectful of the people around us.

Unfortunately, not everyone follows good manners. Some people can be rude or make a fuss over small things. In tense situations, it is often better to stay calm and avoid escalating the conflict. If we have made a mistake, apologising is an important step towards repairing the situation.

Developing good habits is essential to being considerate of others. Saying thank you, holding a door open for someone, or offering help can show attentiveness and respect. In contrast, interrupting, talking with your mouth full, or failing to listen when someone is speaking can make others feel disrespected or unimportant.

Etiquette also involves understanding different situations and being aware of cultural differences. This awareness can help us avoid misunderstandings and recognise when it is appropriate to break the ice, remain formal, or give other people more personal space. Being attentive and respectful towards other people's customs and beliefs can help us build better relationships.

In conclusion, good behaviour and manners are valuable in both personal and professional life. By being polite, courteous, considerate, and aware of context, we can create more positive interactions and show others that we value their presence.

Etiquette and Cultural Awareness — Fill in the Blanks

Complete the adapted text with the correct words.

mannersreflectpoliterespectfulbehaviourrudefussescalatingapologisingessentialconsiderateattentivenessdisrespectedetiquetteawaredifferencescustomsrelationshipsvaluablecourteousinteractionsvalue

Behaviour and 1 play an important role in daily life. They 2 how we interact with others. Being 3 and courteous shows that we are 4.

Not everyone follows good manners and 5. Some people can be 6 and make a 7 over small things. It is better to avoid 8 the situation. If we make a mistake, 9 can help repair it.

Developing good habits is 10 to being 11 of others. Helpful actions show 12 and respect, while poor habits can make people feel 13.

14 also means being 15 of cultural 16. Respecting other people's 17 can help build better 18.

Good manners are 19 in personal and professional life. By being polite and 20, we can create positive 21 and show people that we 22 their presence.

Etiquette and Cultural Awareness — Comprehension Questions

Answer in full sentences.

  1. Why are behaviour and manners important in daily life?
  2. What do good manners communicate about us?
  3. How should we react when someone is rude or makes a fuss?
  4. Which habits show attentiveness and respect?
  5. Which habits can make people feel disrespected?
  6. Why is cultural awareness important in etiquette?
  7. How can respecting other people's customs help relationships?
  8. What benefits can good behaviour bring in personal and professional life?
5

How Did I Behave?

Workplace dialogue about feedback, apology and professional etiquette.

Office Party Feedback

B2

Harry: Hey, Beth. How's it going?

Beth: Hi, Harry. Good to see you.

Harry: I wonder if you could give me some feedback on my behaviour at the office party last night.

Beth: Sure. What happened?

Harry: I'm afraid I might have been a bit rude to our boss and some of the other colleagues. I didn't mean to come across that way, but I guess I had too much to drink.

Beth: Yes, I noticed you were drinking quite a lot. It's important to remain polite and professional, especially at a work event.

Harry: I know. I really regret what I did. Can I apologise to them today?

Beth: Of course. Apologising is courteous and respectful. And when you speak to them, try not to dominate the conversation by talking too much about your own accomplishments.

Harry: Thanks for reminding me. I'll make sure to be more considerate of others in the future.

Beth: That's a good habit. Following basic workplace etiquette can also help you make a better impression and break the ice with new coworkers.

Harry: Right. Sometimes it's easy to go overboard and forget basic manners when things get busy or stressful.

Beth: Absolutely. Being attentive and respectful can go a long way towards building positive relationships.

Harry: I'll remember that.

Office Party Feedback — Comprehension Questions

Answer in full sentences.

  1. What does Harry ask Beth for?
  2. Why is Harry worried about his behaviour?
  3. What did Beth notice at the party?
  4. Why is professional behaviour important at a work event?
  5. What does Harry plan to do?
  6. What should Harry avoid doing when he talks to his colleagues?
  7. Why is apologising courteous and respectful?
  8. What advice does Beth give about building positive relationships?
  9. Does Harry seem receptive to Beth's advice?
  10. What is the main message of the dialogue?
6

British Etiquette — Video Comprehension

Video listening with comprehension questions.

British Social and Cultural Etiquette

B2–C1

Watch the video and answer the questions.

▶ Open video
  1. Why is it important to say please and thank you in British culture?
  2. What is considered rude when it comes to punctuality?
  3. What is queuing, and why is it important?
  4. Why can arguing in public be considered bad manners?
  5. Which topic does the video describe as impolite to discuss?
  6. Why can standing too close to someone be considered rude?
  7. What does the video say about tipping in the UK?
  8. When is hugging, kissing, or touching usually appropriate?
  9. Which personal questions are frowned upon?
  10. Where does the video suggest finding more English lessons?
7

Perspectives on Manners

Four contrasting attitudes, cultural observations and useful quotations.

Mike

“I think good behaviour and manners are really important. My grandma always used to say, ‘Manners cost nothing, but they can get you a lot.’ It's always better to be polite and respectful, especially towards elders.”

Samantha

“Sometimes I don't care much about traditional manners. If my boss behaves badly, I may call them out, even if that means not following the usual professional etiquette.”

Lucas

“I'm on the fence. Manners are useful, but sometimes they can feel artificial. I'd rather be genuine with people, even if that means being less formal.”

Emma

“Basic manners matter a lot to me. On a date, I once noticed that the other person never said please to the waiter, and that immediately changed my opinion of them.”

Cultural and Social Observations

1

Saying “please” and “thank you” is an important politeness convention in many English-speaking contexts.

2

Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing is generally considered considerate behaviour.

3

Queuing is a common way of showing fairness and respect for other people's turn.

4

Interrupting people while they are speaking is considered rude in many cultures.

5

Chewing with your mouth closed is a common expectation in many dining cultures.

6

In many formal Western dining contexts, drinking soup directly from the bowl is considered inappropriate.

7

Tipping customs vary widely; in the United States, restaurant tipping is generally expected.

8

Eye contact can show engagement in many cultures, although expectations vary across cultures and situations.

9

Holding a door open for someone is often viewed as courteous behaviour.

10

Using first names is normal in some cultures and contexts but may be considered too informal in others.

Quotes for Discussion

“Good manners will open doors that the best education cannot.”

— Clarence Thomas

“Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others.”

— Emily Post

“Manners are a way of showing other people we care about them.”

— Mary Killen

“Good manners are just a way of showing other people that we have respect for them.”

— Bill Kelly

“Manners are a way of getting what you want without appearing to be an absolute swine.”

— Katharine Whitehorn

Advantages of Good Manners

  1. Help establish positive relationships.
  2. Show respect and support social harmony.
  3. Can increase confidence in unfamiliar situations.
  4. Help people function effectively in professional environments.
  5. Encourage active listening and positive communication.

Possible Problems with Social Norms

  1. Poor manners can damage relationships and interactions.
  2. They can affect professional opportunities and networking.
  3. Different norms can create cultural misunderstandings.
  4. Very strict rules can sometimes discourage spontaneity or creativity.
  5. Some forms of etiquette can feel restrictive or socially demanding.
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Communicative Situations

Short exchanges for vocabulary practice and pair work.

A: Excuse me, but I couldn't help noticing that your manners are impeccable.

B: Thank you. I was raised to be polite and respectful.

A: I'm sorry, but your behaviour during the meeting was disappointing.

B: I apologise. I didn't mean to come across as rude. I'll be more courteous in the future.

A: Could you please pass me the salt?

B: Of course. Here you go.

A: She went overboard with the decorations.

B: Yes, she tends to get carried away, but her enthusiasm is appreciated.

A: Breaking the ice with new people can be tricky.

B: Yes. It helps to find common ground and pay attention to their interests.

A: Knowing the proper etiquette in different situations is important.

B: Yes. It can make a big difference in how other people perceive you.

A: It's respectful to be considerate of other people's feelings.

B: Absolutely. Empathy and kindness matter.

A: Sometimes it's better to keep quiet and listen.

B: Definitely. It shows respect for the other person's opinion.

A: I need to apologise for my behaviour last night.

B: Thank you for acknowledging that. What happened?

A: Starting the day with a healthy breakfast is a good habit.

B: Yes. It can set the tone for the rest of the day.

A: Biting your nails is a bad habit that can be difficult to break.

B: Yes. It can help to find healthier ways to cope with stress.

A: He's always well-behaved in class.

B: Yes. He sets a good example for the other students.

9

Discussion

From personal experience to cultural and ethical questions.

Core B2

Everyday Behaviour

Personal examples and practical etiquette.

  1. How important are good behaviour and manners in daily life?
  2. What examples of poor manners have you observed in public?
  3. Can good manners help us build better relationships?
  4. What is the most important aspect of good behaviour?
  5. Have someone else's bad manners ever made you uncomfortable?
Advanced B2–C1

Culture and Social Norms

Evaluation, comparison and extended reasoning.

  1. How do cultural differences affect behaviour and manners?
  2. Has technology changed people's manners? How?
  3. What role do parents play in teaching manners?
  4. Which etiquette rules do you follow when interacting across cultures?
  5. How do you respond when another person's manners conflict with your values?
10

Creative Writing

Personal and argumentative B2–C1 writing prompts.

Personal B2

Personal Essay Topics

  1. My experience of learning proper table manners and how it affected my social life.
  2. The role of good behaviour in building strong relationships with colleagues.
  3. How practising mindfulness has made me more aware of my actions and their effect on others.
  4. My journey from shyness to more confident communication.
  5. The importance of expressing gratitude in daily life.
General B2–C1

Argumentative Essay Topics

  1. People today are becoming increasingly rude and disrespectful. To what extent do you agree?
  2. Good manners and etiquette are outdated concepts. Is this a positive or negative development?
  3. Social media is making people more self-absorbed and less considerate. Is this a positive or negative development?
  4. Good behaviour and manners are essential for success in personal and professional life. To what extent do you agree?
  5. Should people adjust their behaviour to local cultural norms when interacting with people from different backgrounds?
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Answer key

Collapsed by default.

Why Good Manners Matter — Gap-fill Answers

1. appropriately · 2. manners · 3. aspects · 4. behaviour · 5. perceive · 6. well-behaved · 7. impression · 8. rude · 9. fuss · 10. opposite · 11. manners · 12. apologising · 13. considerate · 14. respect · 15. habits · 16. attentive · 17. respectful · 18. relationships · 19. tension · 20. etiquette · 21. social · 22. smoothly · 23. to break the ice · 24. mindful · 25. courteous · 26. create

Why Good Manners Matter — Comprehension Answers
  1. Because our behaviour affects how other people perceive us.
  2. It can create either a positive or a negative impression.
  3. Apologising, saying please and thank you, and being attentive and respectful.
  4. It acknowledges the mistake and shows consideration for others.
  5. Respect and gratitude.
  6. Good habits build positive relationships, while bad habits can create tension.
  7. Interrupting others and going overboard with jokes.
  8. Etiquette is knowing how to behave in different social situations.
  9. It helps us navigate situations more smoothly and comfortably.
  10. Being mindful, polite and considerate helps create positive relationships and impressions.
Etiquette and Cultural Awareness — Gap-fill Answers

1. manners · 2. reflect · 3. polite · 4. respectful · 5. behaviour · 6. rude · 7. fuss · 8. escalating · 9. apologising · 10. essential · 11. considerate · 12. attentiveness · 13. disrespected · 14. etiquette · 15. aware · 16. differences · 17. customs · 18. relationships · 19. valuable · 20. courteous · 21. interactions · 22. value

Etiquette and Cultural Awareness — Comprehension Answers
  1. They reflect how we interact with others and present ourselves.
  2. They show politeness, respect and consideration.
  3. Stay calm and avoid escalating the situation.
  4. Saying thank you, holding doors open and offering help.
  5. Interrupting, talking with your mouth full and not listening.
  6. Because different cultures have different expectations about space, formality and interaction.
  7. It reduces misunderstandings and helps people build stronger relationships.
  8. Positive interactions, stronger relationships and better professional communication.
Office Party Feedback — Comprehension Answers
  1. He asks Beth for feedback on his behaviour at the office party.
  2. He thinks he was rude to his boss and colleagues after drinking too much.
  3. She noticed that he was drinking a lot.
  4. Because behaviour at work events affects professional relationships and impressions.
  5. He plans to apologise.
  6. He should avoid dominating the conversation with his own accomplishments.
  7. It acknowledges the mistake and shows concern for how one's actions affected others.
  8. Be considerate, follow workplace etiquette, and remain attentive and respectful.
  9. Yes. He accepts the advice and says he will remember it.
  10. Professional manners, self-awareness and sincere apologies help maintain positive relationships.
British Social and Cultural Etiquette — Video Answers
  1. The video presents please and thank you as basic signs of good manners.
  2. Turning up late without warning is described as rude; punctuality is expected.
  3. Queuing means waiting your turn in a line, and pushing ahead is considered impolite.
  4. Because public arguments can make other people uncomfortable.
  5. Money.
  6. Because personal space is valued.
  7. The video says tipping is not always expected but is appreciated for good service.
  8. Usually with family members and close friends.
  9. Questions about salary, relationship status, weight or age.
  10. On the creator's Facebook page, according to the video.

Behaviour and Manners · B2–C1 Lesson Plan & Materials · AllEnglishStudy

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