Holidays Intermediate 2

15
Developing Skills for the iBT TOEFL

Holidays Intennediate 2
Edited by: Andrew Jacob Finkenbinder, Gregory Edward Manning, Thomas Justin Morgan, and Gareth James Parsons
Chapter 2 Ramadan
Chapter 5 Chanukah 49
59
67
79
91
105
115
125
Chapter 6 81. Patrick's Day
Chapter 7 Kwanzaa
Chapter 8 Easter
Chapter 9 Chinese New Year
Chapter 10 Valentine's Day
Chapter 11 Halloween
Chapter 12 Thanksgiving
Chapter 13 Christmas l35
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Rell1.ell1.brance Day
(Intennediate level)
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Remembrance Day
November 11 is celebrated as a day of remembrance in many places around the world. In some countries, it is
known as Armistice Day; in others it is referred to as Remembrance Day or Poppy Day; in the United States it is
called Veterans Day.
This day is the anniversary of the peace treaty or armistice that was signed by the Allied forces and the Germans
at the end of World War I. In 1918, on the 11 th hour of the 11 th day of the 11 th month, an order was given for all
shooting to stop. Soldiers lay down their weapons and people all over the world rejoiced. After four long years
of bitter fighting, "the war to end all wars" was finally over. In many countries, people went out into the streets,
closed their businesses, sang songs, blew whistles and horns, and celebrated.
Shortly after this, many former allied nations set aside November 11 as a day to remember the sacrifices that
men and women had made during World War I in order to ensure a lasting peace. Armistice Day was created in
the United Kingdom by King George Von November 7, 1919. In 1921, an unknown First World War soldier
was buried in Arlington National Cemetery in United States. Similar ceremonies occurred in England and
France where unknown soldiers were buried in each nation's highest place of honor, Westminster Abbey and the
Arc de Triomphe. These memorial services, which all took place on November 11, gave universal recognition to
Armistice Day.
After World War II, the name of this day was changed to Veterans Day in United States and to Remembrance
Day in the British Commonwealth of Nations. Armistice Day remains an official holiday in both Belgium and
France.
continued on next page ...
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In many parts of the world today, on November 11, veterans march in parades and politicians and others give
speeches of thanks for the peace that was won. People gather together in assemblies to honor all the men and
women who have served and continue to serve their countries. Wreathes and flowers are placed on graves and
war monuments. In many services, a sad song called "The Last Post" is played by a bugler or trumpeter. Then a
moment of silence takes place at 11 A.M. to remember all those who died in World War I, World War II and
other wars.
In many countries, the poppy has become a recognized symbol of November 11. The poppy is a bright red
wildflower that bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of World War I and the poppy's red color came to
represent the bloodshed of trench warfare. Veterans groups in many different countries sell artificial poppies to
help raise money for veteran support groups.
The expression "Lest We Forget" has also become connected with November 11. After the First World War,
people promised never to forget the horror of war, and so, still today, November 11 remains a day of historic
significance across the globe. It is a day where people gather together and tum their thoughts toward the
importance of peace and the avoidance of future wars.
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READING COMPREHENSION
Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then write the answers in the
spaces below.
1. What is the significance of November II? ________________________
2. What are some of the different names used to refer to November II?
3. How did people celebrate when World War I ended? _____________________
4. What was the expression used to describe World War I? ___________________
5. Where were the unknown soldiers buried in England, France, and the United States? _________
6. In what ways do people celebrate November 11 nowadays?__________________
7. Why is the poppy a symbol of November II? _______________________
8. Why do veterans groups sell artificial poppies? _______________________
9. What was a common type of fighting in World War I? ______________________
10. What is the significance of the expression "Lest We Forget"? __________________
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VOCABULARY REVIEW
A. Match the words on the left with the correct meaning on the right.
1. veteran a) joined together
2. anniversary b) to flower
__3. treaty c) not natural; made by man
4. weapon d) a circle of flowers or plants
5. rejoice e) put in the ground
6. bitter f) yearly return of the date of an event
7. allied g) people marching with music, costumes, etc.
8. sacrifice h) agreement between countries
9. soldier i) place where soldiers fight
10. buried j) something used in fighting, ex. gun, knife, etc.
__ 11. parade k) very unpleasant; filled with anger or sadness
12. wreath 1) person who once served as a soldier
13. artificial m) give up something of value for a special purpose
14. bloom n) feel great happiness
15. battlefield 0) member of an army
B. Choose the word(s) with the closest meaning to the underlined words in the following sentences.
1. Now Armistice Day is referred to as Veterans Day in United States.
a) is remembered as b) is called c) occurs on
2. November 11 is the day the armistice was signed at the end ofWorld War 1.
a) cease-fire b) anniversary c) battle
3. The memorial services held in many countries after the war gave to Armistice Day.
a) religion b) parades c) worldwide awareness or knowledge
4. Wreathes and flowers are placed on graves and war monuments.
a) statues b) buildings c) places to bury dead people
5. The red color of the poppy came to represent the bloodshed of trench warfare.
a) fighting in ditches in the ground b) sea battles c) burial places
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VOCABULARY REVIEW (continued)
C. Choose the correct word from the left column in Exercise A or the underlined words in Exercise B on
the previous page to complete the following sentences.
1. I always forget to water my plants. Maybe I should buy some _____________ones.
2. Many people hang a _____________oftree branches on their doors at Christmas time.
3. We are going to have a party for our parents next week to celebrate their _____________'
They have been married for fifty years.
4. NAFTA is the name of a _____________ signed by Mexico, Canada, and United States.
5. When his dog died, he ____________ it in the backyard.
6. She goes to the cemetery every Sunday and puts flowers on her parents' _____________
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PAIR WORK - SHARING INFORMATION (STUDENT A)
Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading about November II. Read your article and then tell
your partner about the information. Then, work together to complete the questions that follow.
Remembrance Day Canada: The Significance ofthe Poppy
The poppy has become the most recognized symbol ofNovember 11 in Canada and other British Commonwealth
countries, as well as in the United States. The poppy owes its significance to a famous war poem written by a
Canadian doctor named John McCrae. McCrae was born in Guelph, Ontario and later practiced medicine in
Montreal. During World War 1, he served as a military doctor with the Canadian army in Belgium and was
greatly influenced by the terrible suffering he saw. In 1915, afterjust burying a youngfriend, and in a mood of
deep sadness, McCrae wrote "In Flanders Fields ", which begins with the lines:
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row
McCrae spoem became one ofthe most famous and most memorable war poems ever written and still today, it
is always recited in Remembrance Day services across Canada. Up until 1996, artificial poppies were made and
sold by disabled Canadian veterans. Although the veterans no longer make the poppies, Canadians ofall ages
continue the tradition ofwearing a poppyfor two weeks prior to November 11. At 11 o'clock on the 1jlh day of
the 1jlh month, the poppy is removed and ifpossible, placed on the grave ofa soldier.
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PAIR WORK - SHARING INFORMATION (STUDENT B)
Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading about November 11. Read your article and then tell
your partner about the information. Then, work together to complete the questions that follow.
Veterans Day United States
November 11 used to be known in the United States as Armistice Day. In November of1919, one year after the
fighting ofthe First World War had ended, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first Armistice Day. He
stated that this would be a day to show pride in the heroism ofthose who had died in service to their country, as
well as gratitude for their victory. The idea was for people to stop workingfor a two minute period beginning at
11 :00 A.M The day was also to be marked by parades and public services. In 1926, Armistice Day received its
official name through a resolution ofCongress. It became a national holiday 12 years later in 1938, twenty
years after World War I had ended.
Soon after this, people began to realize that the previous war would not be the last. World War II began in 1939
and many nations from around the world became involved. After World War II and the Korean War had ended,
leaders ofveterans groups wanted November 11 to become a day to honor all those who hadfought in various
wars, not just in the First World War. Many new veterans had no connection to the armistice of World War 1.
Therefore, on May 24,1954, through an act ofthe u.s. Congress, the name ofthe holiday was changed to
Veterans Day in honor ofall service men and women ofall America swars.
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Work together to complete the following questions based on readings A and B.
1. Why has the poppy become the symbol of November 11? _________________
2. What is the name of the war poem written by John McCrae? __________________
3. Where was McCrae born?
4. What was McCrae's occupation? _______________________________________
5. When did he write his famous poem? __________________________
6. How was McCrae feeling when he wrote this poem? _____________________
7. Who used to make the artificial poppies in Canada? _____________________
8. How long before November 11 do Canadians start to wear the poppy? ______________
9. Who proclaimed the first Armistice Day in United States? ___________________
10. What did he want Americans to show pride in? ______________________
11. What did he want Americans to show gratitude for? _____________________
12. What were people supposed to do at 11 :00 A. M. on November II? ______________
13. When did the American Congress give Armistice Day its official name? _____________
14. When was Armistice Day made a national holiday? _____________________
15. When was the name Armistice Day changed to Veterans Day? _________________
16. Why was the name changed? ___________________________
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Vocabulary, Idioms, and Expressions
1. victory - (noun) - success in a war, game, or contest
ex. There were many parades after the war to celebrate the victory.
2. hero - (noun) - a person respected for bravery or noble character
heroism - (noun) - courage, bravery, quality of being a hero
ex. November 11 is a day to remember the heroism of all the soldiers.
3. cemetery - (noun) - graveyard; place to bury the dead
Every Sunday they visit the cemetery where their parents are buried.
4. arms - (noun - plural) - weapons
ex. The soldiers had plenty of arms when they went into battle.
arms race - (expression) - competition among nations for military strength
ex. There are now international treaties that try to prevent a further arms race.
5. lay down one's arms (idiom) - stop fighting
ex. They ordered the soldiers to lay down their arms on November 11, 1918.
6. to be up in arms - (idiom) - to be angry about; to be protesting strongly
ex. Many people were up in arms when the government announced the new taxes.
7. on the warpath - (idiom) - to be very angry about something
ex. I hope I don't see the boss today. I heard that he's on the warpath.
8. a fighting chance - (idiom) - a fair chance, a good chance
ex. If he can get an interview, he will have a fighting chance of getting the job.
9. fight tooth and nail- ( idiom) - to fight very hard
ex. The women fought tooth and nail to get the right to vote.
10. fight fire with fire - (idiom) - fight using the same methods as your opponent
ex. If they are going to use negative advertising in their political campaign, we will fight fire with fire and
do the same.
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11. halfthe battle (idiom) half of the job done
ex. You've done all the research for the project. That's half the battle. Now you just
need to write the report.
12. dig your own grave (idiom) cause your own failure
ex. If you yell at your boss, you are digging your own grave.
13. stick to your guns (idiom) refuse to change one's idea, in spite of pressure
ex. Johnny stuck to his guns about the story, even after the teacher said he was lying.
Vocabulary and Idiom Practice
A. Choose the correct word or idiom from this or the previous page to complete the following sentences.
1. Terry Fox was a great Canadian ___________. He lost his leg to cancer and then ran across
the country, with an artificial leg, to raise money for cancer research.
2. The General ordered his soldiers to because the countries had agreed to sign a
peace treaty.
3. The workers are going to to get more money and better working conditions in
their factory.
4. The where the soldiers are buried is filled with wild flowers.
5. Don't give up! ,even if they try to get you to change your mind.
6. Ifhe studies hard, he will have a ofpassing the national exams.
7. I have finished packing all the boxes. That's ___________ . Tomorrow we will rent a truck
and move to the new apartment.
8. They lost the first three soccer games, but they are sure they will finally have a ________ tonight.
B. Now write your own sentences using the remaining vocabulary and idioms from the previous page.
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WORD SCRAMBLE
Unscramble the letters to make words from the poem on the following page.
1. klars 5. ipeposp
2. iedlfs 6. reluaqr
3.ofe 7.ugns
4. nadw 8. afith
Find Someone Who .....
Walk around the classroom and ask your classmates questions. (Write the questions in the spaces
provided below.) Find someone ...
1. who went to a November 11 memorial service last year.
2. who remembers the name of the person who wrote "In Flanders Fields".
3. who knows when Armistice Day became an official holiday in United States.
4. who puts a wreath on his/her door at Christmas time.
5. who has fought tooth and nail for something recently.
6. who has been to a cemetery recently.
7. who can tell you which American President proclaimed the first Armistice Day.
8. who has met someone on the warpath this week.
9. who can remember where the unknown soldier was buried in France after World War
_._----------------
10. who can tell you four different names for the November 11 holiday.
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In Flanders Fields - John McCrae
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing,fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders Fields
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
Ifye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders Fields
POETRY COMPREHENSION
1. What does the word "crosses" refer to in the first stanza?
2. Who is the speaker in the poem?
3. What is the name of the bird mentioned in the first stanza?
4. Find a word in the first stanza that means "barely", or "almost not".
5. Why is it hard to hear the birds singing?
6. Find a word in the second stanza that means "daybreak" or "sunrise".
7. Find a word in the third stanza that means "argument" or "fight".
8. Find a word in the third stanza that means "enemy".
9. Find an old English word that means "you".
10. What does the speaker want the listener to do?
11. How is the mood in the first two stanzas different from that in the third?
12. Do you think this is a peace poem or a pro-war poem? Discuss this with your classmates.
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Ramadan
Lesson plan
RAMADAN
Ramadan is a very special time of year for the more than one billion Muslims around
the world. It is a time of fasting, prayer, devotion to Allah (God), and self-sacrifice.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. Muslim holidays follow the
lunar calendar. In the lunar calendar, each month begins with the sighting of the
new moon. There are twelve months in the lunar calendar and each month is either
29 or 30 days. The lunar calendar is eleven days shorter than the solar calendar, so
Ramadan does not always occur at the same time each year.
The Fast of Ramadan lasts the entire month. During this time, Muslims fast from sunrise
to sunset everyday. They eat small meals in the early morning before the sun comes
up and do not eat again until evening after the sun has gone down. Fasting is a way
of experiencing hunger and developing an understanding for those poor people
in the world who do not have much food to eat. It is also a way to learn to be very
thankful for everything God provides. The daily evening meal to break the fast is
known as Iftar. Iftar usually begins with dates and sweet drinks which provide quick
energy after a long day of fasting. Following the Iftar, Muslims often go out visiting
family and friends.
During Ramadan, Muslims go to the mosque and spend hours praying and studying
the Koran. On the 27th of the month, Muslims celebrate the Lay/at-a/-Quadr or the
Night of Power. This celebration commemorates the night when Muhammad the
Prophet first received the Holy Koran from God.
The month of Ramadan ends with a festival called the Eid-a/-Fitr or the Feast of
Breaking the Fast. It is one of the most important celebrations in the Muslim faith.
People dress in their finest clothes and decorate their homes with lights and
ornaments. Family and friends gather together to pray, exchange gifts, and eat large
meals. A sense of charity and doing good deeds is also a very important part of these
celebrations. Muslims are expected to share their blessings and good fortunes by
feeding the poor and making donations to 'rheir mosques.
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Reading Comprehension
Directions: Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then
write the answers in the spaces below.
1. How many Muslims are there around the world?
2. Which month of the Muslim calendar is Ramadan?
3. Why does Ramadan not always occur at the same time each year?
4. Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
5. How long do Muslims fast each day during Ramadan?
6. How many days is Ramadan?
7. What is the name of the evening meal eaten during Ramadan?
8. Why do Muslims often eat dates at the beginning of the evening meal?
9. What is the significance of the 271h night of Ramadan?
10. How does the month of Ramadan end?
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Vocabulary Review
1. fast a. relating to the sun
2. prophet b. power, strength
3. faith c. building where Muslims pray
4. self-sacrifice d. person who teaches religion directly from God
5. lunar e. give
6. solar f. holy book of the Muslim religion
7. entire g. go without food, not eat
__8. provide h. relating to the moon
__ 9. energy 1. remember, honor the memory of someone or something
__ 10. mosque j. giving up of something that one values
11. Koran k. whole
12. commemorate I. religion
B. Choose the correct word from the left column above to complete the following sentences.
1. If you don't eat a good breakfast, you won't have enough _______
to work hard all day.
2. The doctor told him to ______for 12 hours before his blood test. He was
not allowed to eat or drink anything.
3. We are going to have a barbeque for all our neighbors. We will _______
the meat and others will bring the drinks, salad, and dessert.
4. That book was so interesting! I couldn't put it down. I read the ______ book
in one evening.
5. The holy book of the Christian faith is called the Bible. The holy book of the Jewish
faith is called the Torah. The holy book of the Muslim faith is called the ____.
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C. Underline the words that are closest in meaning to the words in italics.
1. devotion a. vote b. strong love or religious belief c. dancing
2. festival a. celebration b. teaching c. prayer
3. decorate a. paint b. make beautiful c. clean
4. ornaments a. presents b. decorations c. flowers
5. charity a. church b. helping others c. partying
6. blessings a. good fortunes b. buildings c. books
7. making donations a. speaking b. giving money or help c. cooking
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Pair Work - Sharing Information - Student A
Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading passage about the Muslim faith
or Islam. Read your passage and share your information with your partner. Then complete
the following questions together.
The Prophet Muhammad
In the year 570 A.D., -the Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca, which is today in Saudi
Arabia. Muhammadwas a -trader and liked to wander through 'the desert thinking about
his faith. One night Muhammad was sitting alone when the Angel Gabriel appeared
and told Muhammad that he had been chosen to receive the word .of Allah. Gabriel
taught Muhammad verses from the Holy Koran which had been sent down from heaven.
Muhammad memorized these verses and began to teach the word of God to others. The
most important message of the Holy Book of Islam is that God is the creator of the world and
controls everything in it. Muslims must live their lives according to the rules of the Holy Koran
and must perform the five main duties of Islam.
1. When and where was the Prophet Muhammad born?
2. Where is Mecca located?
3. What did the Angel Gabriel tell Muhammad one night?
4. What did teach Muhammad?
5. What is the name of -the five duties of Islam?
-
6. What does the word Muslim mean?
7. What does the word Islam mean?
8. What are the Five Pillars of Faith? Explain these five duties.
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Pair Work - Sharing Information - Student B
Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading passage about the Muslim faith
or Islam. Share your information with your partner and then complete the questions that
follow.
The Five Pillars of Faith
The word Muslim means "one who gives himself to God" in the Arabic language. Islam
means "obedience to God". According to the rules of the Holy Koran, all Muslims must
perform five main duties called the Five Pillars of Faith.
1. Shahada (affirmation or positive declaration) - Muslims must worship only Allah.
2. Salat (prayer) - Muslims must pray to Allah five times each day.
3. Zakat (charity) - Muslims must help people who are in need.
4. Siyam (fasting) - Muslims must fast during the month of Ramadan.
5. Hajj (pilgrimage) - Muslims must make the religious trip to Mecca at least once in their
lifetime.
1. When and where was the Prophet Muhammad born?
3. What did the Angel Gabriel tell Muhammad one night?
4. What did Gabriel teach Muhammad?
5. What is the name of the five duties of Islam?
the word Muslim mean?
7. What does the word Islam mean?
8. What are the Five Pillars of Faith? Explain these five duties.
1. fast (adjective) - quick, rapid
ex. He is a very fast runner.
2. fast (adjective) - showing time later than the true time.
ex. I have to get my watch fixed. It is five minutes fast.
3. fast (verb) - to go without food, to not eat
ex. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan.
4. fast (noun) - a period of not eating
ex. She went on a three day fast and lost ten pounds.
5. pull a fast one on someone (idiom) - trick or deceive
ex. He tried to pull a fast one on me when he gave me the phony ten
dollar bill.
6. fast track (idiom) a quick way to get something or somewhere; a short cut
ex. There is no fast track to success. There is only hard work.
7. life in the fast lane (idiom) a fast paced life in a big city
ex. We lived in New York for a year but we didn't like life in the fast lane, so we
moved back to a small town.
8. charity begins at home (expression) - first help the people closest to you before you begin
to help others
ex. john is very generous with his friends but not very good to his own family. I
always have to remind him that charity begins at home.
9. count your blessings (expression) - be thankful for all the good things you have in your life
ex. Why do you complain so often? You are a very fortunate person. You really should
count your blessings.
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Now write your own sentences using different meanings of the word "fast" and some of the
idioms and expressions from the previous page.

; i ;
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om
Directions: Walk around the classroom and ask your classmates questions. Find someone .....
1 . who has been on a
2. who can find Mecca on a world map. ____________________
3. who has given money to charity
4. who likes life in the fast lane. _____________~ ____
5. who likes to decorate his/her house for the holidays. _______________
6. who can name the Five Pillars of the Muslim faith. ________________
7. who has tried to pull a fast one on someone recently. ______________
8. whose watch is a few minutes fast. _________
9. who knows the meaning of Islam. _________
10. who knows when the Prophet Muhammad was born. ______________
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International WOlDen's Day

! Jj.j
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Index: International Women's Day
p 3,4 - Intennediate-Ievel reading
p 5 - Reading comprehension
p 6,7 - Vocabulary Review
p 8 - Pair Work: Sharing Infonnation (Student A)
p 9 - Pair Work: Sharing Infonnation (Student B)
p 10 - Group Work: Working with your partner
p 11, 12 - Vocabulary and Idioms
p 13 - Find Someone Who ...
p 14, 15 - Answer Key
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READING
International Women's Day
Every year on March 8th, International Women's Day is celebrated by millions of women throughout the world.
This day provides the opportunity to remember the struggles of women throughout history as well as the
achievements they have made. Marches, demonstrations, concerts, films and conferences take place to
recognize the progress women have made in obtaining equality and also to assess the problems that many
women around the world still face today.
International Women's Day originated at an international congress in 1910 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Women
from 17 different countries attended the congress. At that congress, a woman from Germany named Clara
Zetkin suggested setting aside a day each year that would be dedicated to fighting for equal rights for women all
over the world. Zetkin proposed March 8th as this day because this was the anniversary ofthe first protest
march against the terrible working conditions oftextile and garment workers in New York City in 1857. At that
time, many of the garment workers lived in crowded tenement houses and worked in firetrap sweatshops for
very long hours and very low wages. These conditions pushed many women to begin to fight for their political
rights, the right to vote and improved working conditions. Their enthusiasm gave life to the entire movement for
women's rights.
When Clara Zetkin first suggested making an International Women's Day, there were already signs of the
outbreak of World War I. For that reason, she called on women everywhere to link their fight for equal rights
with a fight to preserve international peace. Since that time, women's concerns have grown broader and more
varied. From the principal demands for better working conditions and the right to vote, the focus has now turned
to issues such as equal pay for equal work, equal opportunities for education and training, elimination of
poverty, discrimination, and violence against women, improved day care and health services and global
disarmament.
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reading continued ...
In 1977, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution inviting every country to proclaim March 8th
a United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace. Since then, March 8th has grown to become
a truly international celebration.
While International Women's Day is now celebrated in nearly every country of the world, the form and content
of the celebration varies from country to country. In some countries, it is celebrated as an official national
holiday and is used to show respect for the role played by women in society as mothers, workers and citizens. In
some places this day is observed much like Mother's Day, with women receiving gifts and flowers. As well as
being a day to recognize the progress women have made in their struggle for equal rights and world peace,
many people use this day as an opportunity to raise awareness and money for disadvantaged women around the
world. While a great deal has already been accomplished, there is still much to do.
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spaces below.
1. What do people remember on International Women's Day? __________________
2. What types of events take place on this day? _______________________
3. Where did International Women's Day originate? _______________________
4. Why did Clara Zetkin choose March 8th as the date for International Women's Day? ________
5. What was life like for the New York garment workers in the mid 19
th
century?
6. How did International Women's Day become associated with the fight to preserve world peace?
7. What types of issues does International Women's Day focus on now?
8. What role did the United Nations play in making International Women's Day a truly international
celebration?
9. How is International Women's Day similar to Mother's Day in some countries?
10. How are disadvantaged women throughout the world helped by this special day?
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VOCABULARY REVIEW
__ 1. struggle
2. achievement
__3. progress
__4. originate
___ 5. anniversary
6. textile
__7. garment
__8. wages
9. link
10. varied
11. elimination
__ 12. poverty
13. violence
14. disarmament
__ 15. global
16. outbreak
a) material, cloth
b) money earned from work
c) ending, getting rid of, having no more
d) different
e) fight
f) start (of a war, fire, etc.)
g) ending the use of weapons (guns, bombs, etc.)
h) success
i) piece of clothing
j) come from; have as a beginning
k) around the world
1) moving forward, improving, getting better
m) state of being poor
n) yearly return of the date of an event
0) great physical force
p) join together
1. March 8
th
is a day that is dedicated to the fight for equal rights for women everywhere.
a) described b) demanded c) set apart for a defmite purpose
2. March 8
th
was the date ofthe first protest march against terrible working conditions.
a) meeting b) demonstration to show objection or opposition c) discussion
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B. continued
3. Many ofthe gannent workers lived in crowded tenement houses.
a) tents b) cabins c) large houses used by many families
4. They worked in firetrap sweatshops for very long hours and very low wages.
a) sweater factories b) clothing stores c) factories with terrible working conditions
5. Their principal demands were better working conditions and the right to vote.
a) demonstrations b) what they wanted most c) meetings
6. Their enthusiasm gave life to the entire movement for women's rights.
a) strike b) strong interest and excitement c) conference
7. The focus now is on issues such as the elimination of poverty and discrimination.
a) attention b) camera c) money
8. One of the important issues is the elimination of discrimination against women.
a) crime b) unfair treatment c) fighting
9. March 8
th
is a day to raise awareness of the problems facing many women today.
a) make money for b) make people know and think about c) have a protest
lO. March 8
th
is a day to raise money for disadvantaged women around the world.
a) being in a bad situation b) not working c) being far away
(\";'1
()JJ
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PAIR WORK: SHARING INFORMATION - STUDENT A
You and your partner each have some different facts and figures about women around the world. Read
your information and then work with your partner to complete the questions on the following page.
Facts and Figures
Women's Leadership Roles, Voting Rights and Economic Positions
Did You Know that ... ?

In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to grant equal voting rights to women.

In 2006, out of 180 countries, only eleven had elected women as heads of state or government. These
included Chile, New Zealand, Mozambique, Finland, Liberia, Ireland, Philippines, Germany, South Korea,
Jamaica and Latvia.

In 2006, three countries had female Governor-Generals: Canada, The Bahamas, and St. Lucia.

Around the world, there are more women in decision-making positions in local governments than in national
governments.

Switzerland did not grant full voting rights to women until 1971.

In the 21 5t century, some countries still do not have full voting rights for women. Saudi Arabia and United
Arab Emirates are two of these.

In 2006, Rwanda had the highest proportion of women parliamentarians in the world with the National
Assembly comprised of 48.8% women.

In over 60 of the world's states, women's income is 50% lower than men's income.

70% of people in extreme poverty - living on less than $1 per day - are women.
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PAIR WORK: SHARING INFORMATION - STUDENT B
You and your partner each have some different facts and figures about women around the world. Read
your information and then work with your partner to complete the questions on the following page.
Facts and Figures
Women ~ Leadership Roles, Voting Rights and Economic Positions
Did You Know that ... ?

Women in the United States received full voting rights in 1920, in United Kingdom in 1928.

In 2006, only five countries had female vice-presidents. These included Costa Rica, Taiwan, Zimbabwe,
Gambia, and El Salvador.

In 2006, only 16.1 % of members of national parliaments worldwide were women.

In 1995, Sweden became the first country to have an equal number of women and men in ministerial
positions.

In 2005, Kuwait gave women full voting rights.

In 2006, there were 39 women ambassadors to the United Nations.

In the United Nations system, women make up 37.1 % of all professional staff, but only 16% of the most
senior policy-making positions.

Women make up 39% of salaried positions around the world, but women's participation in high levels of
economic decision-making remains low throughout the world.

In the United States, women hold 50.3% of all management and professional positions, but only 7.9% of
Fortune 500 top earners and 1.4% of Fortune 500 CEOs (Chief Executive Officers) are women.
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GROUP WORK: Working with your partner(s)
A. Question Sheet from Information on Previous Page - You and your partner each have some facts and
figures about women's voting rights, leadership roles, and economic positions. Work together to complete
the following questions.
1. Which country became the first to grant women equal voting rights? _______________
2. When did this event occur?
3. Worldwide, do women hold more government positions at the local or national level? _________
4. In 2006, what was the percentage of women in parliaments worldwide? _____________
5. Which country granted women full voting rights first, the US or the United Kingdom? ________
6. Name eleven countries that had elected female heads of state or government in 2006.
7. When did women get full voting rights in Switzerland? ___________________
8. What percentage of management and professional positions do women hold in the United States?
9. How many countries had female vice presidents in 2006? ____________________
10. Which country was the first to have an equal number of women and men in ministerial positions?
11. What percentage of senior policy-making positions in the United Nations do women hold?
12. What does CEO mean?
13. What percentage of U.S. Fortune 500 (top companies) have female CEO's? ____________
14. When did women in Kuwait get full voting rights? _____________________
15. How many female ambassadors to the United Nations were there in 2006? ____________
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VOCABULARY AND IDIOMS
1. be on the same footing or be on an equal footing - (idiom) - to be equal or have an equal status or position
ex. Women have fought a hard struggle to be on an equal footing with men.
2. suffrage - (noun) - the right to vote
ex. In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to grant suffrage to all women.
3. suffragette - (noun) - a woman who fought for women's voting rights
ex. In the early 1900s, many suffragettes were put in prison for their actions in trying to win the right to vote.
4. girl Friday - (idiom) - a female employee who does a variety of low-level office jobs
ex. Ask Mary to mail those letters. She is the girl Friday in our office.
5. glass ceiling - (idiom) - barrier or obstacle that prevents women from moving up in the professional or
business world.
ex. Even though Jennifer has excellent skills, she never moves any higher in her company. She can't break
the glass ceiling.
6. to make a living - (idiom) - earn money to live, support oneself
ex. She can't make a living in that job. The wages are too low.
7. breadwinner (idiom) - the person who makes the living in the family or the one who supports the family
ex. She has been the main breadwinner ever since her husband lost his job last year.
8. affirmative action - (expression) - a program that requires a certain number ofpeople from a minority
group to be hired
ex. Because of the government's policy on affirmative action, the university must hire a woman for that
position.
9. to get one's foot in the door - (idiom) - to get a chance to advance or move forward
ex. Affrrmative action policies helped many women get a foot in the door of the business world.
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10. to be in charge of - (idiom) to be the top person or the one in control
ex. Amy has a lot of responsibilities at work. She is in charge of her department.
11. to climb the corporate ladder (idiom) - move up in the business world
ex. She has climbed the corporate ladder very quickly and is now CEO of her company.
12. gender (noun) sex, class (of male or female)
Ex. Many application forms ask you to state your gender.
13. feminine (adjective) of or like women opposite of masculine
ex. They wanted their new baby girl's room to look very feminine, so they painted it pink.
14. feminist - (noun) someone who fights for women's rights
ex. The hard work of feminists has helped to improve the lives of many women around the world.
15. gender discrimination (expression) unfair treatment because of one's gender
Ex. Women are still working hard to end gender discrimination around the world.
VOCABULARY AND IDIOM PRACTICE
Write your own sentences using the vocabulary and idioms from this and the previous page.
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FIND SOMEONE WHO
Walk around the classroom asking your classmates questions. Find someone....
1. who can name five countries with female leaders.
2. who has worked as a girl Friday.
3. who is the breadwinner in hislher family.
4. who has had ajob in which he/she was in charge.
5. who can tell you when women got the right to vote in his/her country.
6. who can explain the tenn "affirmative action".
7. who knows someone who has benefited from an affinnative action policy.
8. who can tell you why March 8
th
was chosen as the date ofIntemational Women's Day.
9. who knows someone who has experienced gender discrimination.
10. who belongs to a feminist organization.
[)]
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Mother's Day
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ESL Lesson Plans Holidays (Intermediate) Mother's Day
READING: Mother's Day
Many countries all over the world celebrate Mother's Day. Although not all countries have chosen the same date
to celebrate their Mother's Day, children everywhere use this day to show how much they appreciate their
mothers.
As with many other holidays, Mother's Day dates back to the time ofthe ancient Greeks and Romans. The
Greek Goddess of fertility and motherhood was Rhea. Celebrations for Rhea occurred each spring and involved
festivities with lots of flowers, honey cakes, and delicious wines. The Romans continued this tradition by
celebrating Cybele, the mother of all their gods. The Christians later took this holiday and converted it to a
celebration of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus.
During the 1600s, England celebrated a holiday called Mothering Sunday. At this time, many of the poor people
of England worked as servants for the rich and lived far away from their own families. On Mothering Sunday,
which was in the spring, the servants were given the day off to return home to spend time with their mothers.
Wildflowers and sweet raisin buns were very popular on this day.
Two American women played an important part in bringing Mother's Day to the United States. In 1872, Julia
Ward Howe first suggested the idea of Mother's Day in her city, Boston. A short time later, in 1908, a woman
named Anna Jarvis wanted to honor her own mother, so she convinced her town in West Virginia to hold a
celebration for all mothers. She chose May 10
th
, the anniversary of her mother's death. Then Anna and her
supporters began to write letters to ministers, businessmen, and politicians to try to establish a national Mother's
Day. Her campaign was successful and finally, in 1914, the President of the United States declared Mother's
Day a national holiday. It would be held every year on the second Sunday of May. By the end ofAnna Jarvis'
life, Mother's Day was celebrated in more than 40 countries around the world.
Although the traditional role of mothers has changed in many countries over the years, the role of nurturing and
caring for families remains. While different countries celebrate and recognize their mothers in different ways,
many traditions are similar. Flowers such as carnations and roses have been an important part of Mother's Day
for a very long time. As well, children of many different cultures give their mothers cards, chocolates, and
presents to show their love and appreciation. In some countries, children do the household chores for the day,
prepare meals, serve their mothers breakfast in bed or take them to a restaurant for dinner. In many countries it
is also the day of the year when millions of greeting cards are sent, the use of telephone lines is the greatest, and
restaurants are the busiest. No matter where one lives, Mother's Day is the one day of the year when children,
young and old, recognize and honor their mothers.
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) Mother's Day
Directions: Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then write the
answers in the spaces below.
l. When is Mother's Day celebrated in the United States?
2. Where did Mother's Day originate?
3. When did the celebration of Rhea occur and what did the festivities include?
4. How did the Christians change the celebration of Mother's Day?
5. What was Mothering Sunday?
6. Who first suggested a Mother's Day in United States?
7. Why did Anna Jarvis choose May 10
th
as a day to honor mothers?
8. What did Anna Jarvis do to try to make Mother's Day a national holiday?
9. When did Mother's Day become an official national holiday in the United States?
10. What are some of the ways that children show their appreciation for their mothers on Mother's Day?
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) - Mother's Day
VOCABULARY REVIEW
__ 1. appreciate a) cause someone to believe or feel something
2. ancient b) church leader
3. fertility c) type of flower
4. motherhood d) be thankful; value greatly
5. occur e) care for; bring up, feed, educate
6. honor f) small jobs or work; ordinary house work
7. convert g) from long ago
__8. suggest h) change
9. convince i) state of being a mother
10. role j) person who works in a house for payor food
11. nurture k) position; purpose
12. carnation 1) ability to reproduce or make more children
l3. minister m) show respect
14. servant n) happen
15. chores 0) give an idea
1. The celebration for the goddess Rhea included lots of cakes and delicious wines.
a) expensive b) having a very good taste c) spring
2. Anna Jarvis convinced her town to have a Mother's Day celebration on May 10
th
, the anniversary of her
mother's death.
a) festivity b) church c) same date of the year
continued on next page ....
1JJ
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3. Anna and her supporters began to write letters to businessmen and politicians.
a) women friends b) people who helped her c) co-workers
4. Anna's campaign was successful and Mother's Day became a national holiday.
a) letter b) a number of activities with a special purpose c) celebration
5. While different countries celebrate in different ways, many traditions are " ' - = ~ =
a) interesting b) happy c) the same
C. Choose the correct word from the left column in Exercise A or the underlined words in Exercise B to
complete the following sentences.
1. Before we went on our European vacation, we went to the bank to ___________
our American dollars to euros.
2. I can't go to the movie until I finish all my household __________
3. I want to try that new restaurant. I heard the food there is ___________
4. I really __________ all your help. Thank you!
5. When you get married, you promise to love and ___________ your husband or wife.
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PAIR WORK: Sharing Information (Student A)
Directions: You and your partner each have a chart containing different infonnation about Mother's Day around
the world. Read your chart and then share your infonnation with your partner so that you can both complete the
questions on the following page.
Mother's Day Around The World
Some of the countries Some of the Some of the countries that Interesting Mother's Day
that celebrate countries that celebrate Mother's Day on customs in certain countries
Mother's Day on celebrate Mother's different days
May 10
th
Day on the second
Sunday in May
Bahrain
India
Australia
Canada
Argentina - 2
nd
Sunday in
October
Portugal- December 8
th
Children in United States often
give mom breakfast in bed.
Spanish children give their
mothers white roses.
Mexico
Pakistan
Saudi Arabia
El Salvador
Finland
Japan
United States
Lebanon - first day of Spring
South Africa - first Sunday in
May
Yugoslavia - two weeks before
Christmas
Russia - on International
Women's Day in early March
In Spain and Portugal people
go to church to pay tribute to the
Virgin Mary.
In Sweden, the Red Cross sells
little plastic flowers and gives
he money to women with very
large families to go on vacation.
In Ethiopia, Mother's Day
festivities last two or three days.
Children in France give
mother a cake decorated like a
bouquet of flowers.
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PAIR WORK: Sharing Information (Student B)
Directions: You and your partner each have a chart containing different infonnation about Mother's Day around
the world. Read your chart and then share your infonnation with your partner so that you can both complete the
questions on the following page.
Mother's Day Around The World
Some of the countries Some of the Some of the countries that Interesting Mother's Day
that celebrate countries that celebrate Mother's Day on customs in certain countries
Mother's Day on celebrate Mother's different days
May 10
th
Day on the second
Sunday in May
Hong Kong Belgium Spain - first Sunday in May Children in Portugal give their
mothers white roses.
Malaysia Denmark
United Arab Emirates - March
21st
The Prench celebrate mother's
day like a family birthday.
Oman
Italy
Prance -last Sunday in May
In Mexico, more greeting
cards are sent for Mother's Day
han any other occasion.
Qatar Turkey
Norway - second Sunday in
!February
In Yugoslavia, children tie up
heir mother and only release
Singapore
Sweden - last Sunday in May
Ethiopia - whenever the rainy
season ends
her when she gives them sweets.
In Japan, children between six
and 14 honor their mother by
entering a drawing of her in an
art contest. Winning drawings
are put in an exhibit that travels
around the world.
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PAIR WORK: QUESTION SHEET - MOTHER'S DAY AROUND THE WORLD
Directions: Work with your partner to answer the following questions. (You each have half the
information on your chart on the previous page.)
L When is Mother's Day in Canada?
2. Which country celebrates Mother's Day at the end of the rainy season?
3. In which two countries do children give their mothers white roses on Mother's Day?
4. Which country honors their mothers on International Women's Day in early March?
5. Which two countries celebrate Mother's Day on the last Sunday in May?
6. In which country do mothers often receive their breakfast in bed on Mother's Day?
7. When does Norway celebrate Mother's Day?
8. In which country do Mother's Day festivities last two or three days?
9. Which country celebrates Mother's Day in October?
10. Where do children honor their mothers by entering an art contest for Mother's Day?
11. Name two countries that celebrate Mother's Day in December.
12. Which country is known for the large number of greeting cards that are sent for Mother's Day?
13. In which country do mothers receive a cake that is decorated like a bouquet of flowers?
14. What do Yugoslavian children do to their mothers on Mother's Day?
15. What does the Swedish Red Cross do on Mother's Day to help some women?
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VOCABULARY, IDIOMS, AND EXPRESSIONS
Informal or affectionate terms used for "mother"
rna, mom, mum, mummy, mommy, mama
Different Types of Mothers
1. birth mother - a person's biological mother; the woman who gives birth to the child
2. adoptive mother - a woman who has the legal right to raise a child that is not hers by birth
3. foster mother - a woman who looks after a child when the birth parents cannot do so
4. step-mother a woman who is married to the child's father but is not the birth mother
5. single mom (mother) - a woman who raises her child without the father
6. mother-in-law the mother of one's husband or wife
7. grand-mother the mother of one's father or mother
8. great grand-mother - the grand-mother of one's mother or father
9. stay-at-home mom (mother) - a mother who does not work outside the house
10. working mom (mother) - a mother who works outside the home
11. surrogate mother - a woman who carries and gives birth to a child for a woman who cannot give birth to a
child herself
12. godmother an honorary title given to a woman when a child is baptized in the Church; she promises to be
a good support to the child throughout life
Idioms and Expressions
1. to learn something at your mother's knee to learn something when you are a young child
Ex. She learned to sew at her mother's knee.
2. to be tied to your mother's apron strings - to not be able to think or act independently; to still need your
mother
Ex. He is almost 30 years old and still tied to his mother's apron strings.
tUJ
v
Hell Rin:r
il'
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3. Mother Nature - the force that controls the natural world
Ex. There were so many trees blown down in last night's storm. It really shows you the force of
Mother Nature.
4. a mummy's (momma's) boy - a boy or man who allows his mother to have too much influence on him.
Ex. Robert is a real momma's boy. He broke up with his girlfriend because his mother didn't like her.
5. mother tongue - one's native language; the language one learns as a child
Ex. Her mother tongue is French, but she now can speak more than four languages.
6. mum's the word - it's a secret; don't tell
Ex. The birthday party is a surprise, so mum's the word!
7. Necessity is the mother of invention - If you really need something, you will invent or think ofa way to get
it.
Ex. When Mary ran out of sugar, she tried using honey instead to bake her cake. It turned out to be the best
cake she had ever made. Necessity really is the mother of invention.
Now write your own sentences using the vocabulary and idioms on this and the previous page.
10
Lli
chanukah
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Lli
CHANUKAH
Chanukah, or the Festival of Lights, is a special time ofyear for Jewish people around the world.
Chanukah begins on the 25
th
day of the month of Kislev on the Jewish calendar. On the western
calendar, this holiday varies from year to year but usually occurs sometime between the end of
November and the end of December.
The holiday of Chanukah celebrates a military victory which occurred over two thousand years
ago in the land of Judea. At that time, Judea was controlled by a Syrian-Greek king named
Antiochus. Antiochus ordered all the Jewish people living in the area to give up their customs and
beliefs, their religion, their God, and their temples. He ordered them to worship only the Greek
Gods. Some of the Jewish people obeyed the king's orders, but others refused. One of the men
who refused was named Judah Maccabee. Judah and his four brothers and a number of other men
soon formed an army to fight against the Syrians. They called themselves the Maccabees. The
Maccabees and the Syrians fought for almost three years until the Maccabees finally defeated the
Syrians.
After the Maccabees had defeated the Syrians in Jerusalem, the Maccabees wanted to reclaim
their temple and rededicate it to the worship of their God. They began to clean the temple, wash
the walls and remove the Greek symbols and statues inside. When they finished restoring the
temple, they looked for some oil to light the lamp which is present in every Jewish house of
worship. They found a tiny jug of oil but knew it was only enough to last for one night. Then a
miracle occurred. The oil burned not just for one night, but for eight nights. It lasted until a new
supply of oil could be brought to the temple.
From that time on, Jews have celebrated Chanukah in memory of their victory over the Syrians
and the miracle of the oil. The Hebrew word Chanukah means "dedication", a reminder of their
rededication of their temple so long ago.
Nowadays, Jewish families celebrate Chanukah by lighting candles in a special candle holder
called a menorah. A menorah holds nine candles. One candle is for each of the eight nights of
Chanukah and one candle is used to light the others. On the first night of the celebration, one
candle is lit. This continues each night until all the candles are lit. Special blessings are also said
each night before the candles are lit.
Chanukah includes several other customs such as eating potato pancakes called latkes, playing
a game with a spinning toy called a dreidel, and giving coins called Chanukah gelt to children.
Chanukah occurs close to the Christian holiday of Christmas and has also become a time of gift
giving, decorating the house, and entertaining families and friends.
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Reading Comprehension
Directions: Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then
write the answers in the space below.
1. What is another name for Chanukah?
2. When does Chanukah begin on the Jewish calendar?
3. When does Chanukah occur on the western calendar?
4. What does Chanukah celebrate?
5. Why did Judah Maccabee and his army fight against the Syrians?
6. How long did it take the Maccabees to defeat the Syrians?
7. What miracle occurred when the Maccabees were rededicating their temple?
8. What is a menorah?
9. What is the meaning of the Hebrew word Chanukah?
10. How long does the celebration of Chanukah last?
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Vocabulary Review
1. miracle a. a place to worship God
2. occur b. a kind of bottle or container to hold liquids
__ 3. military c. do what someone tells you to do
__ 4. victory d. change, be different
__ 5. temple
e. take back; say something is yours again
__ 6. worship f. happen
__ 7. obey g. army
8. refuse h. pray; show respect to God
9. decorate i. say no; say you will not do something
10. reclaim j. a win; a success in a war or a game
__ ll.jug k. make beautiful
__ 12. vary I. something wonderful that cannot be explained;
a wonderful act of God
1. When you finish pouring the milk, please put the ________ back in the fridge.
2. Soldiers in the army must ___________ their officers.
3. It is a __________that he can walk now. After his car accident the doctors
said that he would never walk again, but after only six months he started to walk.
4. Our soccer team lost our first six games. Last night we had our first __________
this year, so we had a party to celebrate.
5. I am having a party for my friend's birthday. I have to buy some balloons and ribbon to
_______________________ thehouse.
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C. Choose the words that are closest in meaning to the underlined words in the
following sentences.
1. It took almost three years for the Maccabees to the Syrians.
aJ fight b) win a victory over c] obey
2. The Maccabees wanted to rededicate their temple to the worship of their God.
a. clean b) build c) make it for a special purpose again
3. After they restored the temple, they looked for some oil to light the lamp.
a) brought it back to good condition b) bought c) built
4. There are special blessings before the candles are lit.
a) greetings b) prayers c) lights
The celebration of Chanukah is a reminder of the miracle of the oiL
aj party b) festival cj something that makes you remember
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Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading passage about one of the
symbols of Chanukah. Read your passage and share your information with your partner. Then
complete the following questions together.
The Dreidel Game
Thousands of years ago in the land of Judea, Jewish people were not allowed to practice
their religion. However, they would often gather together secretly to study and pray. When
the Syrian soldiers appeared, the Jewish people would hide their books and start to play with
a dreidel.
Nowadays, children playa dreidel game as part of the celebration of Chanukah. The
dreidel is a spinning top with four sides. Each side of a dreidel has a Hebrew letter on it.
The letters stand for the words, "A great miracle happened here". To play the game, each
player starts with a number of coins or candies. Before spinning the dreidel, each player puts
a certain amount of coins or candies into the center. Each player spins the dreidel. When
the dreidel falls, it will fall on the one of the four letters. Depending on which letter the dreidel
falls on, the player will either win everything in the center, win half, neither win nor lose, or
lose everything he/she put in the center.
1. What is a dreidel?
2. What do the letters on a dreidel stand for?
3. Why is the dreidel game a part of the Chanukah celebration?
4. What is a latke?
5. Why is oil important in Chanukah dishes?
6. What do people often eat with latkes? ___________________
Llib
Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading passage about one of the
symbols of Chanukah. Read your passage and share your information with your partner. Then
complete the following questions together.
Latkes
Latkes are potatoes pancakes. They are a very important part of the Jewish celebration of
Chanukah. Latkes are made from grated potatoes which are mixed with onions, eggs and
flour. They are then fried in vegetable oil. Oil is the most popular ingredient in Chanukah
dishes because it is a reminder of the miracle of the oil. Latkes are crispy on the outside and
soft on the inside. Most people eat latkes with either apple sauce or sour cream.
The Maccabee soldiers ate latkes when they were fighting against the Syrian army. In those
days, latkes were made from fruits, vegetables and cheese rather than potatoes.
1. What is a dreidel?
2. What do the letters on a dreidel stand for?
3. Why is the dreidel game a part of the Chanukah celebration?
4. What is a latke?
5. Why is oil important in Chanukah dishes?
6. What do people often eat with latkes?
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The Festival of Lights - Chanukah
The word light is used as a noun, verb, and adjective. It is also used in many idioms.
1. light (noun) - something that makes it possible to see.
ex. It's very dark in this room. Can you please turn on a lig)]1.
2. light (verb) - start burning.
ex. It's very cold in here. Can you please lig)]1 the fire.
3. light (adjective) - not heavy
ex.. I can carry my own suitcase. It's very light.
1 . light-headed - dizzy
ex. I haven't eaten all day. I feel light-headed.
2. the green light - permission; saying it is okay to do something
ex. He gave me the green light to start the project, so we will begin tomorrow.
3. see the light - finally understand something or realize the truth
ex. Everybody told her that her boyfriend was not a very nice man. She has
finally seen the light. She broke up with him last week.
4. the light at the end of the tunnel - the end of something is near; a hopeful sign that
you are almost finished something
ex. After four years of studying, I can finally see
5. lighten up - relax, don't be so serious
ex. You worry all the time. Why don't you try
6. light-hearted - not serious; happy and humorous
ex. I really enjoy your friendship. You have such a light-hearted approach to life.
7. come to light - become known
ex. A lot of new information about cancer has come to light in the last few years.
8. the light of one's life - the most important person in one's life, the love of one's life
ex. You are the light of my life. Let's get married.
9. a light-house - a tall tower or building with a strong flashing light to guide ships
ex. The light-house will help us get through the storm and reach the shore.
10. light up -light a cigarette, begin to smoke
ex. You can't light up in that restaurant. You will have to go outside if you want to smoke.
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Vocabulary and Idiom Practice
Now write your own sentences using the word "light" as a noun, verb, and adjective. Also
write sentences using the idioms and expressions from the previous page.
ibra (om
Directions: Walk around the classroom and ask your classmates questions. Find someone
1 . who has eaten latkes.
2. who has seen a menorah.
3. who is light-hearted.
4. who has been inside a light-house.
5. who can tell you how to make latkes.
6. who played with a spinning top when he/she was a child.
7. who can tell you the meaning of the Hebrew word Chanukah.
8. who feels light-headed if he/she doesn't eat breakfast.
9. who remembers the name of the Syrian-Greek King who ordered the Jewish people to
give up their religion.
10. who decorates his/her house for a holiday celebration.
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St. Patrick's Day
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St. Patrick's Day
READING
St. Patrick's Day
March 17th is St. Patrick's Day. This is Ireland's most important national holiday, but it is also a special day for
Irish people living throughout the world. On st. Patrick's Day, people ofIrish descent wear the color green.
This is the national color ofIreland. It is the color of the shamrock, a plant with three leaves on a single stem.
The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland and St. Patrick's Day. In many cities, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with
parades, dances, and festive dinners. People greet each other with good wishes and often send cards to each
other. Many stores are filled with green decorations and cakes and candies are often decorated with the color
green. Some restaurants and pubs even sell green beer!
The History of St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick was born at the end of the 4th century in Britain. When he was 16, he was kidnapped from his home
by a group ofIrish pirates and taken to Ireland. In Ireland, he was sold as a slave and had to work for the next
six years as a shepherd. When Patrick was living in Ireland as a slave, he had a very lonely life and he turned to
religion for comfort. After six long years of slavery, at the age of22, he escaped to France and began to study
the bible. Later he became a priest and decided to return to Ireland to convert the people to Christianity. Patrick
was a very brave man and the people admired him. He traveled all over the country setting up schools and
churches for the Irish people. He also worked very hard to develop a strong national spirit in the country.
There are many stories about St. Patrick. Some people say that he used the shamrock when he was teaching
about Christianity. The shamrock with its three leaves represented the Trinity (the father, the son, and the holy
spirit), which is a basic principle of the Catholic religion. Many people believe that St. Patrick performed
miracles. The most famous story about St. Patrick is that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland. He put them in a
box and threw them into the sea. People say that is why there aren't any snakes in Ireland today.
St. Patrick died on March 17th, 461. Ever since his death, March 17th has been celebrated as st. Patrick's Day.
It is an important day for the Irish because it celebrates the conversion ofIreland to Christianity. Nowadays, it is
also a special day to celebrate one's Irish traditions and to have fun.
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St. Patrick's Day
spaces below.
I. Which country celebrates S1. Patrick's Day as a national holiday? ________________
2. When was St. Patrick born?
3. What happened to Patrick when he was 16? ______________________
4. What kind of work did he do when he was a slave?
5. How long did he live in slavery? _____________________________
6. What did Patrick do after he escaped to France? ______________________
7. Why did Patrick return to Ireland? ___________________________
8. What did Patrick do to help the people ofIreland? ____________________
9. When did Patrick die?
10. How do people celebrate St. Patrick's Day? _______________________
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St. Patrick's Day
VOCABULARY REVIEW
A. Match the word on the left with the correct meaning on the right.
1. descent a. change
2. shamrock b. a person who takes care of sheep
__ 3. kidnap c. a festive march with music and costumes
4. slave d. like and respect
__ 5. shepherd e. a thief or robber who lives on the sea
6. bible f. a plant which usually has three leaves on each stem
__7. priest g. origin, coming from
8. convert h. a person who is forced to work for someone and can be bought and sold
9. admire i. an unbelievable event, an act of God
lO. miracle j. to steal a person
__ 11. pirate k. a religious man who works for the church
__ 12. parade 1. a book of sacred writings of the church
B. Choose the correct word from the left column above to complete the following sentences. (You may
have to change a verb tense or make a noun plural.)
1. Pierre is of French __________. His grandparents moved to Canada from France forty years ago.
2. In many cartoon movies, a __________ wears a black patch over one eye and a scarf on his head.
3. When his mother recovered from cancer, he thought it was a __________
4. The is the national symbol ofIreland.
5. There were many clowns, dancers, and marching bands in the __________
6. The will perform the marriage ceremony in the church.
7. Before the American Civil War, it was legal to own ____________ in the U.S.A. After the
war, the black people became free.
8. You can __________ your American dollars to Canadian dollars at the airport.
9. He is a very religious person. He reads the everyday.
10. After they the child, they asked for a million dollars for his safe return.
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St. Patrick's Day
INFORMATION SHARING - Student A
A. Legends
Read the Irish legend below and then share the information with your partner.
Student A - The Blarney Stone
The Blarney Stone is a stone located in a wall of the Blarney Castle in the small village of Blarney in Ireland.
People believe that the Blarney Stone has magical powers. According to the legend, an old woman made the
stone magical in order to reward the king, who had saved her from drowning. The stone gave the king the
ability to speak very beautifully. People believe that anyone who kisses the Blarney Stone will receive "the gift
of the gab", a special ability to talk sweetly and convincingly. It is not easy to reach the Blarney Stone. You
have to climb many stairs in the castle and then lie on your back, bend downwards, and hold onto iron bars for
support.
B. Facts About Ireland
You and your partner each have some information about Ireland. Try to complete the sentences below by
asking your partner for the missing information.
I. Ireland is also called the Emerald Island.
2. The capital of Ireland is ____________'
3. The official languages ofIreland are English and Gaelic.
4. Ireland is located of Great Britain.
5. The shamrock is the national flower ofIreland.
6. The longest river in Ireland is the ____________
7. The flag of Ireland has three vertical stripes.
8. The stripes on the flag of Ireland are _________________, and _________'
9. The size ofIreland is 27, 136 square miles.
10. The population ofIreland is ____________
II. Ireland became self-governing in 1922.
12. St. Patrick's Day was first celebrated in North America in ____________ (city) in 1737.
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St. Patrick's Day
INFORMATION SHARING - Student B
A. Legends
Read the Irish legend below and then share the information with your partner.
Student B - Leprechauns (Irish Fairies)
According to legend, leprechauns are little Irish fairies who look like old men. They are only about two feet tall
and they dress like shoemakers. They are not very friendly. They live alone and spend their time making shoes.
They are very special because they possess a hidden pot of gold. You can try to find a leprechaun by listening
for the sound of his hammer when he is making shoes. If you find one, you can try to force him to tell you
where he has hidden his gold.
B. Facts About Ireland
You and your partner each have some information about Ireland. Try to complete the sentences below by
asking your partner for the missing information.
1. Ireland is also called
2. The capital of Ireland is Dublin.
3. The official languages ofIreland are ____________ and ____________
4. Ireland is located west of Great Britain.
5. The is the national flower ofIreland.
6. The longest river in Ireland is the Shannon River.
7. The flag ofIreland has three ____________ stripes.
8. The stripes on the flag ofIreland are green, white, and orange.
9. The size of Ireland is _________________________ square miles.
10. The population ofIreland is about 4 million.
11. Ireland became self-governing in ____________ (date).
12. St. Patrick's Day was first celebrated in North America in Boston in ____________ (date).
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St. Patrick's Day
IDIOMS AND EXPRESSIONS
1. green with enry - to be very jealous of what somebody else has
2. to get (or give) the green light - to get (or give) permission to start something
3. to be green - to have no experience
4. to have a green thumb - to be a good gardener or have a natural ability with plants and flowers
5. the grass is always greener on the other side ofthe fence - we always think that what other people have is
better than what we have or that somebody else's situation is better than ours
6. the luck ofthe Irish - to have the good luck oflrish people
7. the gift ofthe gab the ability to speak very well, to have a good way with words
A. Choose the correct idiom or expression from the list above to complete the following exercise. You
may have to make some changes to the sentences or verb tenses.
1. All my plants die. I don't have _____________' Maybe I should buy some artificial plants.
2. The new president of our club is a wonderful speaker. He is always very persuasive. He really has
3. My friend is going to Hawaii for a three-week vacation. I wish I could go, but I have to work. I am
4. Shaun has won the lottery three times this month. She must have _______________'
5. Frank is thinking of quitting his job and moving to another company. He always thinks that
6. If Robert gets the job, the company will have to spend a lot of time training him. He is really
________________________. He knows nothing about sales.
7. The government has finally given _______________ to start building a new hospital.
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St. Patrick's Day
Find Someone Who ...
Interview your classmates and try to find someone who has "seen green beer" for example. When you
find someone, write the person's name in the space provided. Then ask the person another question
related to the first one.
Find someone who ...
1. has seen green beer.
2. has felt green with envy.
3. whose favorite color is green.
4. has a green thumb.
5. has been to the capital ofIreland.
6. has seen a parade in the past few months.
7. is afraid of snakes.
8. can describe a leprechaun.
9. can draw the flag ofIreland.
10. is planning to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.
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Kwanzaa
I
Ii
ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) - Kwanzaa
READING: Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a relatively new holiday which celebrates African American people, their culture, and their history.
It is a seven day festival that begins on December 26 and lasts until January 1.
The holiday of Kwanzaa was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 during the civil rights movement in the
United States. This was a time of great struggle for black Americans. Dr. Karenga wanted to create a celebration
that would bring African Americans together by recognizing their black culture.
Karenga used the harvest festivals ofAfrica as a model for his new holiday. Over the centuries, Africans have
gathered to celebrate their crops and harvests as a time ofthanksgiving and remembrance. Karenga named his
holiday, Kwanzaa, which means "first fruits" (kwanza) in the African language of Swahili. However, Dr.
Karenga added an extra "a" to the spelling so the word would have seven letters. This would correspond with
the seven guiding principles or beliefs of the festival. Dr. Karenga based his seven principles of Kwanzaa on the
traditional African values and characteristics of the ancient harvest festivals. The seven principles of Kwanzaa,
called the Nguzo Saba, are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics,
purpose, creativity and faith.
Each evening ofthe seven day festival a family member lights a candle in a special candleholder and discusses
one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. On the evening of December 31, family and friends get together to
enjoy a large feast. The last day of Kwanzaa, January 1, is a time of gift giving.
The traditional colors of Kwanzaa are black, red, and green, which are the colors of the African flag. Black
represents the people, red is their struggle, and green symbolizes hope for the future.
Since its beginning in 1966, Kwanzaa has gained wide recognition and is now celebrated by more than 18
million people worldwide. The holiday is celebrated in homes, churches, mosques, community centers, schools,
and places of work. Africans and African-Americans of all religions celebrate Kwanzaa.
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ESL Lesson Plans Holidays (Intermediate) - Kwanzaa
A. Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then write the answers in
the spaces below.
1. When was the holiday of Kwanzaa created? ~ ~ _ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ .
2. Why did Dr. Karenga want to create a new holiday? __~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ _
3. What is Kwanzaa and when is it celebrated?
4. How did Dr. Karenga choose the name for his new holiday? ___________~ ~ _____
5. Why did he change the spelling of the Swahili word? ___________________
6. What does Nguzo Saba mean? ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ __________________
7. What did Dr. Karenga use as a model for his new holiday? ... __~ ~ ~ ~ ~ _________~ _
8. What happens each evening of the seven day festival? _____ ............. __ ......................... __________
9. Is the celebration of Kwanzaa associated with any particular religion? ....................... _____________
10. How many people around the world celebrate Kwanzaa? __________________
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) Kwanzaa
VOCABULARY REVIEW
1. create
__2. struggle
__3. recognize
4. harvest
__5. gather
__6. century
__7. crops
__ 8. correspond
__9. guide
__ 10. principle
11. ancient
12. collective
13. feast
__ 14. unity
__ 15. mosque
16. faith
a) from long ago; old
b) state of being together or one
c) religious building in which Moslems pray
d) make something new
e) 100 years
f) a very large meal
g) belief; religion
h) basic rule
i) cutting and gathering grain, fruit, vegetables
j) of a group or society working together
k) come together
I) be similar to or the same as
m) agricultural produce; grains, fruits, vegetables
n) know; be willing to accept
0) lead or show the way; influence
p) fight
L Thanksgiving is a holiday that is celebrated in United States and Canada around the time of the autumn
2. When the army killed the president and took control, no country wanted to
the new government.
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ESL Lesson Plans Holidays (Intermediate) - Kwanzaa
B. continued
3. The farmers are worried that this terrible storm will destroy their ____________
4. The multicultural celebration will include music and dancing and a huge ____~ ________
with foods from all the different countries.
5. They are planning a vacation to Egypt to see the ____________ pyramids.
6. He never does what he promises. His actions do not ____________to his words.
7. They live on a ____________ farm where some people have different jobs but everyone has
an equal amount of work to do.
8. Parents cannot force their children to choose the right path in life, but they can __ ........... ________
them in the right direction.
9. All Mr. Baxter's children and grandchildren from across the country are planning to
____________ in one place to celebrate his 85
th
birthday.
10. After a very long ____________ with government officials, they finally were given their
freedom.
11. Do you think people will take vacations to outer space in the 21 st ____________?
12. He is a very religious man. He goes to the ______.._______ to pray everyday.
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Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading passage about the symbols of Kwanzaa. Read
your passage and then share your information with your partner. Then complete the following questions
together.
Symbols of Kwanzaa
Just as there are seven basic principles of Kwanzaa and seven days of celebration, there are also seven important
symbols used in the festival.
1. The Mat (Mkeka in Swahili)
A woven mat of straw or fabric is placed on a table that has been covered with a beautiful piece ofAfrican cloth.
All the other symbols are placed on the mat or right beside it because the mat symbolizes the foundation of the
African tradition, culture, and history.
2. The Candle Holder (Kinara in Swahili)
The candle holder, which is placed on the mat, represents the African ancestors. It holds seven candles.
3. The Seven Candles ( Mishumaa Saba in Swahili)
The seven candles represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa. There is one black candle, three red, and three
green. The black candle represents the first principle, unity, and it is placed in the center of the candle holder.
The red candles represent the principles of self-determination, co-operative economics, and creativity. The red
candles are placed to the left of the black candle. The green candles represent collective work and responsibility,
purpose, and faith. They are placed to the right of the black candle. Each day of the holiday one candle is lit to
represent one principle.
6
ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Inlermediale) Kwanzaa
Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading passage about the symbols of Kwanzaa. Read
your passage and then share your information with your partner. Then complete the following questions
together.
Symbols of Kwanzaa
Just as there are seven basic principles of Kwanzaa and seven days of celebration, there are also seven important
symbols used in the festivaL
4. The Crops (Mazao in Swahili)
A fruit basket is placed on the straw mat to symbolize the African harvest celebrations and to honor the work of
the people who grew the crops. Bananas, peaches, oranges, mangoes, or any other family favorites can be
included in the basket.
5. The Corn (Muhindi in Swahili)
The com is used to represent the children and the future of the family. One ear of com for each child in the
family is placed on the mat. However, even if the family has no children, one ear is still placed on the mat to
represent the children ofthe community. This symbol is also used to show respect for the Native Americans who
grew com and contributed to the culture of the African Americans.
6. The Unity Cup (Kikombe cha Umoja in Swahili)
The unity cup represents the principle of family and community unity. It is filled with water, wine, or juice.
First, a little is poured out to honor the ancestors and then the cup is passed around to family and friends. Each
person takes a sip from the cup.
7. The Gifts (Zawadi in Swahili)
Gifts are given to children on the last day of Kwanzaa to represent the love and commitment of parents. The
gifts usually include educational items such as African art objects or books about African culture and life. Many
gifts are home-made rather than store-bought to emphasize the principle of creativity.
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Pair Work: Question Sheet The Symbols of Kwanzaa
Directions: Work with your partner to complete the following questions. (You each have half of the
information in your previous readings.)
1. Give several examples of how the number 7 is important in the holiday of Kwanzaa.
2. What is the Swahili name for the mat?
3. How many candles does the candle holder hold?
4. What is the mat usually made of?
5. Which symbol represents the children?
6. What are the three colors of the candles and how many are there of each color?
7. How many ears of com are placed on the table if there are five children in the family?
8. Why is an ear of com placed on the table even if the family has no children?
9. Which candle represents unity?
10. Why is some of the liquid in the unity cup poured out before it is passed around?
11. Why is a fruit basket placed on the mat?
12. Where is the black candle placed in the candle holder?
13. When are gifts given?
14. What types of gifts are given?
15. Which symbol is used to show respect for Native Americans?
16. What color candle represents creativity?
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VOCABULARY AND IDIOMS
1. mat - (noun) - a piece of material used for a floor covering; a piece of material used for wiping dirty shoes;
a piece of material placed under dishes to protect a table
ex. Please wipe your feet on the mat at the front door before you go into the house.
2. mat - (verb) - to become tangled or knotted
ex. Her hair is very matted because she hasn't brushed it since she got sick.
3. hold a candle to - (idiom) - be as good as; compare with - (used in the negative)
ex. The new teacher is quite nice, but she can't hold a candle to our old one.
4. ear - (noun) - organ of hearing
ex. She should have her ears checked. She is having trouble hearing.
5. ear - (noun) - the part of cereal or com that carries the seeds.
ex. How many ears of com should we cook for dinner tonight?
6. to fall on deaf ears - (idiom) to not be noticed or paid attention to
ex. Unfortunately my advice to him fell on deaf ears. He didn't study and he failed his exam.
7. to be music to one's ears - (idiom) - to be very good news
ex. It was music to my ears when my boss told me I could take the day off.
8. to turn a deaf ear - (idiom) - to refuse to listen or help
ex. I begged him to help me, but he turned a deaf ear to all my requests.
9. the green light - idiom - permission
ex. He gave me the green light to go ahead and start the project.
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10. to have a green thumb (idiom) to be good at gardening
ex. Mary's garden always looks so beautiful. She really must have a green thumb.
11. to be in the red (idiom) - to lose money; to show a financial loss
ex. The first year we started our business, we were in the red but now we are finally making money.
12. red tape (idiom) many difficult government fonns and procedures
ex. We experienced a lot of red tape before we were allowed to open our new business.
13. to be in the black (idiom) to show a profit; to be in a good financial position
ex. After losing money for several years, his company is now finally in the black.
14. the black market (idiom) illegal buying and selling of things
A long time ago, the only place you could buy American blue jeans in Russia was on the black market.
15. the black sheep (idiom) the bad one
ex. John has five successful brothers and sisters, but he is the black sheep in his family and is always
getting into trouble.
16. black out - (idiom - used as a noun) loss of electricity or loss of consciousness
ex. There was a long black out during the stonn. It took several days to get the electricity back in some
neighborhoods.
(idiom - used as a verb) to lose consciousness
ex. She blacked out during the accident and still can't remember what happened.
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A. Directions: Use one of the words or idioms on the previous page to complete the following sentences.
1. Frank's business is very successful. His company is always ____________
2. When the teacher told the students that there would be no homework for the week-end, it was
3. Mr. and Mrs. Fontaine had to go through so much ____________ when they decided to
immigrate to United States, they almost stopped trying.
4. She didn't brush her hair before bed last night, so when she woke up this morning, it was all
5. When I asked my boss for a raise in pay, he ____________ , so I quit my job.
6. Our old apartment was nice, but it can't our new one. This apartment is so
beautiful.
7. When I went on vacation, I asked my neighbor to look after my garden for me. When I got back, it looked
wonderful. She really has ____________
8. Robert hasn't seen his family in over ten years. They call him the ____________ of the
family.
9. They sell many videos on for a much cheaper price than in the stores, but
they are illegal.
10. I gave him directions before he started on his trip, but everything I said . He
got lost before he even left the city.
B. Now write your own sentences using the vocabulary and idioms on the previous page.

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FIND SOMEONE WHO ....
1. who celebrates Kwanzaa or knows someone who does.
2. who can tell you the seven principles of Kwanzaa without reading the article again.
3. who has experienced a lot of red-tape recently.
4. who is the black sheep in his/her family.
5. who has a green thumb.
6. who can tell you the seven symbols of Kwanzaa.
7. who has bought something on the black market or knows someone who has. _
8. who can tell you what the ears of com represent in Kwanzaa.
9. who knows the colors ofthe candles used in Kwanzaa.
10. who can tell you the Swahili words for the seven principles.
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Easter
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) Easter
READING: Easter
Easter is the greatest festival of the Christian church. This religious holiday commemorates the rebirth of Jesus
Christ, the son of God. It is celebrated on the first weekend after the first full moon that follows March 2l. It
can occur as early as March 22 or as late as April 25.
Although Easter Sunday is the most important celebration of the Christian church, Good Friday is also a very
important day in the holy week of Easter. Good Friday marks the day that Christ was crucified or nailed on a
cross until he died. Because Christ was killed on the cross, the cross has become the symbol of Christianity.
Easter Sunday commemorates the miracle of Christ's rebirth or resurrection, three days after his death.
Christians all over the world celebrate Easter by attending church services, praying, and spending time with
family and close friends. This year, Good Friday falls on April 1 Oth and Easter Sunday on April 12th.
Although Easter is celebrated as a religious holiday, it also has a non-religious side. The arrival of spring had
been celebrated all over the world long before Easter became a Christian holiday. In fact, Easter was originally a
pagan festivaL The word Easter comes from the name Eostre, the ancient Anglo-Saxon goddess of dawn and
fertility. In ancient times, spring festivals were held each year to honor Eostre and to celebrate new life and the
rebirth of nature. In many parts of the world, flowers and plants are beginning to reappear after the long winter
and birds are returning to build their nests. Because the resurrection of Christ occurred in the early spring, the
two celebrations have become closely tied together.
There are many symbols associated with the Easter season. Lambs, chicks, bunnies and other baby animals
symbolize the birth of new life. One ofthe best known symbols of Easter and spring time is the egg, which also
represents new life. In modern times, chocolate Easter eggs and bunnies have become very popular. Another
common symbol has been the Easter bonnet, which is a kind of hat. In past times, the Easter bonnet and other
new clothes were worn to mark the end of the long cold winter and the beginning of the fresh, new spring. A
number of years ago, it used to be popular for families to walk leisurely to and from church, showing off their
new clothes. The white lily, also a symbol of rebirth, is the traditional Easter Flower. In many cultures, sweet
breads such as hot cross buns are also an important part of Easter.
In many countries, Easter parades are common. Some parades are religious with people carrying heavy crosses
long distances. Other Easter parades are just for fun. They celebrate the coming of spring with colorful floats,
costumes, Easter bonnets, and of course, the Easter bunny.
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) - Easter
Directions: Practice asking and answering the questions below with your partner. Then write the answers in the
spaces provided.
1. Is Easter a fixed date every year?
2. What does Easter commemorate in the Christian religion?
3. When does Easter Sunday fall this year?
4. Who was Eostre?
5. Why are baby animals traditional symbols of Easter?
6. What did pagan festivals celebrate in ancient times?
7. What did many women wear in earlier times to mark the beginning of spring?
8. What is the traditional Easter flower?
9. What is one of the best known symbols of Easter?
10. What kind of eggs have become popular in modem times?
3
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Easter Traditions: Each person in your group has some information about a tradition or symbol of
Easter. Share the information with the others in your group.
Student A - The Easter Bunny
The Easter bunny is not actually a modem invention. It had its origins in pre-Christian days. Since pagan times,
the rabbit has been a symbol of fertility because rabbits are one of the most fertile animals. They produce large
litters of babies and have several litters in a season. The ancient goddess, Eostre, chose the rabbit as her sacred
animal, so this became an important symbol in spring festivals. Nowadays, in many western countries, the
Easter bunny has become a cute little rabbit that hides chocolate eggs for children on Easter. The origin of this
tradition is not known, but some people say that it came from an old German book that was written in the
1600's. The book is a story of a little bunny that lay eggs and hid them in a garden. The first edible bunnies were
made in Germany in the 1800's. This custom was later brought to North America.
Favorite Holidays: Complete the information in the chart below by asking your partners questions.
Name of student 1 2 3
Favorite holiday
Time of year
Religious or secular
holiday
Symbols of the holiday
Special customs of the
holiday
Traditional food of the
holiday
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Student B - The Easter Egg
The most well known symbol of Easter is the Easter egg. Throughout history, the egg has been a symbol of new
life. From ancient times through to the present, eggs have been painted, dyed and decorated in bright colors to
represent the sunlight and brightness of spring. The old custom of exchanging eggs as gifts had gone on
throughout the centuries, long before Easter became a Christian holiday. In early times, eggs were often
wrapped in gold leaf if you were wealthy. If you were poor, eggs could still be made beautiful and bright by
boiling them with the leaves and petals of certain plants and flowers. In addition to being exchanged as gifts,
eggs have also been used in different games and contests in spring festivals down through the years. Egg tossing
and egg rolling contests are popular in many countries. Nowadays, an Easter egg hunt is a common activity
associated with Easter. Children in many western counties believe that the Easter bunny delivers chocolate and
candy Easter eggs to their homes on Easter Sunday.
Favorite holiday
Time of year
holiday
Symbols ofthe holiday
holiday
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PAIR WORK: Sharing Information (Student C)
Student C - The Easter Basket
The Easter basket is a traditional symbol of the season. It originated from an old Christian custom that began
many years ago. During the Easter season, people would fill baskets with breads, cheeses, hams and other food
for their Easter dinner. They would take the baskets to church on Easter Sunday to be blessed by the priest. This
custom has changed over the years. Nowadays, Easter baskets are filled with chocolate eggs, candies, and little
stuffed toys such as lambs and baby chicks. During the traditional Easter egg hunt, which takes place in many
homes on Easter Sunday, children are given colorful Easter baskets to fill as they go around their houses
searching for the eggs that the Easter bunny has hidden. Easter baskets are usually decorated in the soft colors of
spring such as pink, yellow, purple and light blue.
Favorite holiday
Time of year
holiday
Symbols of the holiday
holiday
Traditional food of the
holiday
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VOCABULARY REVIEW
7
1. commemorate
__2. holy
__3. crucify
__4. symbol
5. miracle
6. resurrection
__7. pray
8. secular
__9. pagan
10. dawn
__ 11. fertility
12. lamb
13. bonnet
__ 14. popular
__ 15. leisurely
__ 16. parade
17. float
__ 18. bunny
19. litter
__20. dye
A. not religious
B. a baby rabbit
C. to speak to God
D. a baby sheep
E. early morning, sunrise, daybreak
F. religious, spiritual, connected to God
G. without hurrying
H. a type of hat that ties under the chin, worn by women or children
I. coming to life after being dead, rebirth
J. honor the memory of someone or something
K. festive march with music, colorful costumes
L. well-liked
M. put to death by nailing to a cross
N. a number of babies born to one animal at the same birth
O. low, flat, decorated car used in parades
P. sign or object used to represent something else
Q. a person from ancient times who did not believe in one God
R. an unbelievable event, an act of God
S. change color
T. ability to produce children
---------------
ESL librarycom
VOCABULARY REVIEW
Directions: Choose the correct word from the left column on the previous page to complete the following
sentences. You may have to change the form of the noun or verb.
1. It is very windy today. The baby needs to wear a __________ to protect his ears.
2. Easter Sunday commemorates the ____________ of Jesus Christ.
3. A cross is the of the Christian church.
4. There were many marching bands and beautiful __________ in the Easter parade.
5. Many women __________ their hair when they get older and it starts to tum gray.
6. Coke is a very ___________drink all over the world.
7. He always goes to bed very early because he likes to get up at __________
8. Christmas is a religious holiday, but New Year's Day is a __________ holiday.
9. It's a beautiful day today. Let's take a _________ walk through the park and look at all the
beautiful spring flowers.
10. The rabbit is a sign of ___________ because it produces a large number of babies.
11. When her cancer disappeared, everyone thought it was a ___________
12. Children usually like to watch a __________ if there are lots of marching bands, music and
clowns.
13. When Robert's child got very sick, he went to church and __________ God to help him.
14. Good Friday __________ the day Jesus Christ was __________
15. A church is a _____________ place.
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1. cross my heart and hope to die - make a very strong promise to do something; this expression is often used
by children
2. cross paths - meet someone
3. cross that bridge when I come to it - make a decision when it is necessary, but not before
4. egg someone on - to push someone to do something
5. to have egg on your face - to look foolish, to be embarrassed
6. don't put all your eggs in one basket - don't invest all your money in one company or all your energy or
work in one thing
7. a nest egg - money that a person saves for retirement or for the future
8. walk on eggshells - to be in an uncomfortable situation where you feel that you have to be very careful.
9. to have a bee in your bonnet - to be preoccupied or obsessed with something
10. wear or have on your Sunday best - to wear your nicest clothes
"Eggspressions"
1. boiled eggs - eggs cooked in their shells in boiling water.
2. fried eggs - eggs cooked without the shell, fried in a pan with a little oil or butter
3. sunny side up - an egg that is fried in a pan on one side only, not turned; the yolk is very soft.
4. once over lightly or easy-over - a fried egg that is cooked first on one side and then turned over in the pan
and cooked very quickly on the other side.
5. poached eggs - eggs cooked without the shell in a little bit of boiling water.
6. scrambled eggs - eggs are beaten in a bowl with a little milk and seasonings, then poured into a frying pan
and mixed while cooking.
7. omelet - eggs are beaten in a bowl with milk and seasonings, poured into a frying pan, cooked on one side;
then other ingredients such as cheese, onions, mushrooms, etc. are added. The eggs cook until they puff up a
little and then are folded in half.
8. deviled eggs - the eggs are first hard boiled in their shells, then peeled and cut in half; the yolks are then
mixed with mayonnaise and seasonings and put back into the whites.
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Choose the correct idiom or expression from the previous page to complete the following sentences. You
may have to change the form of the verb or pronoun.
1. He is moving to another city, but I'm sure we will _____________ again some day.
2. Why are you wearing your ____________? Are you going someplace special?
3. Ben has been saving money every month ever since he started working twenty years ago. He is going to have
a big ____________ when he retires.
4. Maria is very uncomfortable whenever she visits her mother-in-law. She is always afraid she may say some
thing wrong. She feels like she is ____________________
5. At first Johnny didn't want to fight, but all the other boys in the schoolyard
6. If they offer him a promotion, he may have to move to another city. He is not sure he wants to do that, but he
will
7. Suzie said to her friend, "Please tell me your secret. I promise I won't tell anyone.
!"
8. Robert promised to finish the work before last weekend. Now it is Monday and the work still isn't finished.
He is really going to have ______________ when he has to tell his boss.
9. Anna has a She has decided to redecorate her house and she
can't think about anything else. That's all she talks and thinks about all the time.
10. My financial advisor gave me some advice. He said,
" . It is better to invest in several different
companies, not all in one."
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FIND SOMEONE WHO....
1. whose birthday is in April.
2. whose favorite holiday is Easter.
3. who prefers scrambled eggs to poached eggs.
4. who has bought some chocolate Easter eggs recently.
5. who has never eaten an omelet.
6. who celebrated a spring festival in hislher country.
7. who has eaten a chocolate Easter bunny.
8. who can tell you where the name Easter originated.
9. who is trying to save a nest egg.
10. who thinks that Easter and Christmas have become too commercialized.
11. who has been on an Easter egg hunt.
12. whose favorite season is spring.
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HAP'PY CHIHESE: HEW YEAR!
Chinese New Year
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HIlPPY CHlt{CSC HI:W VI:Il'R'!
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ESL Lesson Plans Holidays (Intermediate) - Chinese New Year
Index: Chinese New Year
P 3,4 - Intermediate-level reading
p 5 - Reading comprehension
p 6,7 - Vocabulary Review
p 8 - Pair Work: Sharing Information (Student A)
p 9 - Pair Work: Sharing Information (Student B)
p 10 - Group Work: Working with your partner
p 11,12 - Vocabulary and Idioms
p 13 - Find Someone Who ..
p 14 - Answer Key
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HA'M"Y CHlHCSe:; HCW Yf:ARl
ESL Lesson Plans Holidays (Intermediate) Chinese New Year
CHINESE NEW YEAR
Chinese New Year is the biggest and most important holiday of the year for Chinese people around the world. It
is actually two celebrations in one. According to Chinese tradition, everyone's birthday is celebrated on New
Year's Day. This is also the most important time of the year for families to get together.
Chinese New Year does not have a fixed date on the western calendar because it is based on the lunar calendar.
It always falls between January 20
th
and February 21 st. This year, 2009, Chinese New Year begins on January
26th. Each year the Chinese calendar is represented by one of twelve animals. The year 2009 is the year of the
Ox. The Chinese believe that people share the characteristics of the animal that represents the year of their birth.
There are many traditional activities associated with Chinese New Year and many of these symbolize new life
and new beginnings. Many are also related to the idea of good luck. Chinese people sweep and clean their
houses before New Year and then put away their brooms so good fortune will not be swept away. They always
pay off their debts before New Year's Day because it is bad luck to begin the New Year if you owe money.
People also buy new clothing and new shoes because they believe that bad luck will come to those who step on
the ground in old shoes on New Year's morning. It is also important to settle old arguments.
The color red is seen everywhere on Chinese New Year because it represents fire, which according to legend,
can drive away bad luck. Gold is also an important color at this time. It represents wealth and good fortune.
Families decorate their homes with flowers and papcr decorations. Exchanging gifts is an important tradition
and children always receive red envelopes containing "lucky money". The traditional New Year's greeting is
"kung hey fah choy", which means "I wish you a prosperous New Year."
3
HI\??Y CHlHCSC HEw yeARl
Reading continued ...
Food is a very important part ofthe New Year celebrations. Families and friends get together for large feasts
and many of the foods that are eaten have special meanings. Fish is eaten to ensure long life and good fortune.
Red dates bring prosperity, lotus and melon seeds will bring many children, and oranges symbolize wealth.
Ancestors are remembered with offerings of food. The table is usually covered with a red cloth and red candles
and often there are twelve courses to represent the twelve animals of the zodiac.
The dragon and the lion are other popular symbols of Chinese New Year. Many Chinese communities around
the world celebrate with dragon and lion dances and parades through the streets with people dressed in brightly
colored costumes; and of course, a Chinese New Year celebration would not be complete without loud and
colorful fireworks.
In many Chinese communities, the New Year is celebrated as official holidays for three or four days, but often
the celebrations continue until the Festival of Lanterns which is on the fifteenth day ofthe New Year.
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HAPPY CHIHC:SC; HC:W YCARt
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) Chinese New Year
spaces below.
1. Why is Chinese New Year two celebrations in one?
2. Why does Chinese New Year not have a fixed date on the western calendar?
3. When does Chinese New Year occur on the western calendar this year? _______________
4. What is the animal that represents this year? ________________________
5. Why do Chinese people put away their brooms on New Year's Day? _______________
6. What two colors are often seen on Chinese New Year?
7. What do children receive on Chinese New Year?
--------------_..................... ------
8. Why do New Year's meals often consist of twelve courses?
9. Why is fish an important dish on Chinese New Year? ____________________
10. When does the Festival of the Lanterns take place? ____________________
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediale) Chinese l'\ew Year
VOCABULARY REVIEW
1. fixed a) fight, disagreement
2. lunar b) very large meal
3. occur c) a lot of money, riches
__4. symbolize d) family members from the past
__5. sweep e) make certain
6. fortune f) relating to the moon
7. debt g) good or bad luck, chance, fate
___ 8. argument h) happen
9. wealth i) something that is owed to someone
lO. ancestors j) represent
11. feast k) set, decided (as a date)
12. ensure I) clear away dirt with a broom
1_ John was born in Canada, but his ~ ..................~ ..................~ ___________ came from China a long time ago.
2. The floor is very dirty. Could you please it for me.
3. The date for the annual meeting is already _______________ I can't change it.
4. He bOlTowed a lot of money from his friends over the past few years and he still has a lot of
5_ Do you believe that people can really tell your _______________by looking into a
crystal ball or reading your tea leaves?
6
C. Choose the words that are closest in meaning to the underlined words in the following sentences.
1. Families ~ ~ i l l & their homes with flowers.
a) fill b) make beautiful c) buy
2. Red dates bring prosperity.
a) success, good fortune b) many children c) happiness
3. Chinese people put away their brooms on New Year's Day.
a) problems b) pictures c) long handled brushes for sweeping
4. Many traditions are related to the idea of good luck.
a) connected b) family c) real
5. There are often twelve courses in the New Year's feast.
a) something you study b) red cloth c) part of a meal
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Directions: You and your partner each have different information on the animals in the Chinese zodiac. Share
the information with your partner and together complete the questions on the following page. (Note: you may
need to use your dictionaries for some of the words related to the characteristics of the animals.)
Part of the Chinese Zodiac - Animal Signs and Corresponding Years

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.,.Dragon.
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1900 1901 1902 1903 1904 1905
1912 1913 1914 1915 1916 1917
1924 1925 1926 1927 1928 .1929
1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941
1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953
1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965
1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977
1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Characteristics of the animals and people born in their year.
8
Raf - hard-working, clever, charming, have big ambitions, usually successful
- loyal to people who are close to them
- patient, calm, trustworthy, easy-going
- do not speak a lot, but when they do, they speak very well
- courageous, proud, powerful, natural leaders, well-respected
- sometimes cannot make up their minds
- gentle, shy, sensitive, kind, love to entertain, love to gossip
- often lucky with money
- healthy, powerful, brave
- lots of energy, like to be leaders
- generous
- try to help others less fortunate
HAPPY CHIf'{I;SC;: HI;W 'fC.AR!
Part of the Chinese Zodiac - Animal Signs and Corresponding Years
),'Ii"
t
111
1935 1930 1931 1933 1934 1932
1942 1945 1947 1944 1946 1943
1954 1959 1955 1956 1957 1958
1966 1967 1970 1971 1968 1969
Characteristics of the animals and people born in their year.
lots of energy, popular, like large crowds
- want freedom, like to travel
creative, imaginative, artistic
often shy and usually religious
- like to have fun, like a lot of stimulation
skillful, have good memories
tell the truth, quick thinkers
- like traditional things, like to keep busy
- physically active, honest, very faithful
excellent at business
intelligent, have good manners, enjoy learning
enjoy helping others, sometimes wasteful
9
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HA.'PPY CHltICSC HJ;W VCA'R,t
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) - Chinese New Year
GROUP WORK - Question Sheet - Chinese Zodiac
Directions: Work with your partner to complete the following questions and statements.
1. This is the year of the __________________
2. Last year was the year of the ___________________
3. Which animal represents your year of birth? ___________________
4. Which animal is often lucky with money? _______
5. Which animal is usually religious? __~ ......_ ~ _______________
6. The year 1950 was the year of the __________________
7. Which animal loves to gossip? ____________________
8. When will the next year ofthe sheep occur?
9. Which animal is very successful at business? ____________________
10. Which animal has a good memory? ___________________
11. Which animal is a natural leader?
12. Which animal enjoys learning? ___________________
13. Which animals are shy? ___________________
14. If you were born in the year 1959, what is your animal sign? ____...... . ~ ....... _______.
15. Which animal likes to help people less fortunate? _________________
16. What are the characteristics of the animal that represents your birth year?
17. Do you think that these characteristics accurately describe you? Explain.
18. Name the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Then discuss the characteristics of each with your partner.
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HAPPY CHUiCSC HCW YCARI
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The color red is very important in Chinese New Year. This word is often used in different expressions in
English.
A. red (adjective) of the color of blood (ex. She is wearing a beautiful red sweater.)
B. redden (verb) to make something red or become red (ex. His face reddened when he made that foolish
mistake.)
1. to see red - to become angry
ex. The boss is really going to see red when he finds out that the work was not finished on time.
2. a red head a person with red hair.
ex. Joan's hair is naturally brown, but she has always wanted to be a red head, so she is going to dye it.
3. to be in the red - to be in debt, losing money
ex. Last year our business was still in the red, but we hope to start making money this year.
4. red tape - a lot of difficult official rules and procedures
ex. If you want to immigrate to a new country, you have to go through a lot of red tape.
5. paint the town red - go to restaurants, bars, dancing, etc. and have a great time.
ex. It's my birthday on Saturday. I want to paint the town red.
6. roll out the red carpet - welcome someone in a very special way
ex. When the Queen comes to our city, we really roll out the red carpet for her.
7. a red-letter day - a very special day, a day to remember
ex. This is going to be a red-letter day for me. I'm going to see my new grandchild for the first time.
8. to be caught red-handed to be caught while doing something bad.
ex. Mother told Jimmy not to eat any more cookies but he was caught red-handed with his mouth full
of cookies and his hand in the cookie jar.
9. not worth a red cent - worthless
ex. My car is almost twenty years old. I can't sell it. It's not worth a red cent.
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HAPPY CHINese New YCAR!
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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) - Chinese l\'ew Year
Now write your own sentences using the expressions on the previous page.
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12
HAPPY HCW Yf;ARI

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ESL Lesson Plans - Holidays (Intermediate) - Chinese New Year
FIND SOMEONE WHO...
Directions: Walk around the classroom and ask your classmates questions. Find someone ...
1. who was born in the year of the monkey.
2. who can name all the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac.
3. who would like to be a red-head.
4. who has experienced a lot of red tape in the past month.
5. who can tell you what animal will represent 2008.
6. who has had a red-letter day recently.
7. who knows why the Chincse put away all their brooms on New Year's.
8. who likes to paint the town red.
9. who was born in the year of the dragon.
10. who can tell you the traditional Chinese New Year greeting.

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Happy Valentine's Day!
Valentine's Day
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Valentine's Day (Student / Group A - Legend #1)
Valentine's Day is February 14. It is not a holiday, but it is a special day for many people in different countries
around the world. Each year on Valentine's Day, friends and lovers exchange valentine's cards, chocolates,
candy, flowers and other gifts. In elementary schools in Canada, children make valentines for their classmates
and put them in a large decorated mailbox. On February 14, the teacher opens the box and distributes the cards
to the students. Many schools also celebrate Valentine's Day with parties. Some people like to go to a romantic
restaurant on Valentine's Day to celebrate. People of all ages love to send and receive valentines. According to
the Canadian Post Office, Canadians send approximately 90 million cards on Valentine's Day.
There are many symbols of Valentine's Day, such as hearts, roses, and cupids. The symbol of cupid comes from
ancient Roman times. Cupid was the son of the love goddess, Venus. Cupid was a playful child who flew
around shooting love alTOWS into people's hearts, making them fall in love.
There are many different stories about the origins of Valentine's Day. According to one legend, the custom of
sending a card to a loved one goes back to the days of the Roman Empire. In the third century there was a priest
named Valentinus. Valentinus was put in jail and sentenced to die by the Emperor Claudius because of his
Christian beliefs. When Valentinus was in jail, he fell in love with the jailer's daughter. According to the story,
the jailer's daughter was blind, but Valentinus had special abilities and was able to cure her. When he was in
jail, she brought him food and delivered messages. The night before Valentinus was executed, he wrote a good
bye note to the jailer's daughter and signed it "Your Valentine".
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Valentine's Day (Student / Group B - Legend #2)
There are many symbols of Valentine's Day, such as hearts, roses, and cupids. The symbol of cupid comes from
around shooting love arrows into people's hearts, making them fall in love.
There are many different stories about the origins of Valentine's Day. According to one legend, the tradition of
Valentine's Day goes back to the days ofthe Roman Empire. In the third century, the Emperor Claudius wanted
a strong army. Many married soldiers did not want to leave their families to fight the Emperor's wars, so
Claudius ordered young men not to marry. A priest named Valentinus lived in Rome at that time and he felt
sorry for the young men and their sweethearts. He decided to marry them secretly, but the Emperor found out
and put him in prison. He was executed on February 14. Since that time, Valentine's Day has been celebrated as
a special day for sweethearts and romance.
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Valentine's Day (Student / Group C - Legend #3)
There are many symbols of Valentine's Day, such as hearts, roses, and cupids. The 'symbol of cupid comes from
around shooting love arrows into people's hearts, making them fall in love.
There are many different stories about the origins of Valentine's Day. One legend goes back to the days of the
Roman Empire. At that time, the Romans celebrated the festival of Lupercalia in the middle of February. This
festival honored the god, Lupercus, keeper of the crops and farm animals. As time passed, the Romans began to
honor another god during this festival. Her name was Juno, guardian of women and marriage. During this
festival, all of the young women in a village would write their names on a piece of paper and drop them into a
box. Every young man would pick a paper from the box and the woman whose name he had chosen would
become his sweetheart. Since those early days, mid February has been remembered as a special time for love.
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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Share your legend of Valentine's Day with the other students in your group. Then discuss the questions
below.
1. Do you celebrate Valentine's Day in your country? If so, what are the customs? If not, do you have any
similar celebrations?
2. Do you think Valentine's Day was created for commercial purposes?
3. How do most couples meet in your country?
4. Are arranged marriages common in your country?
5. Is there a formal engagement before marriage?
6. What is the average age for marriage in your country?
7. Do most couples go on a honeymoon?
8. In your country, is it acceptable for couples to live together before marriage?
9. Are there any dates that are considered lucky (or unlucky) for a wedding?
10. Do parents have a big influence on the choice of one's spouse in your country?
11. For what occasions do you send greeting cards in your country?
12. Are you planning to do anything special this Valentine's Day?
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COMPREHENSION QUESTIONS
Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then write the correct answers
in the spaces below.
l. What are some of the symbols of Valentine's Day? _____________________
2. What do people exchange on Valentine's Day? ________________________
3. What do elementary school children do to celebrate Valentine's Day? ______________
4. Who was Valentinus?
5. There are two legends about Valentinus. Tell why Valentinus was put in jail, according to each legend.
6. Why did the Emperor Claudius not want young men to marry? _________________
7. How did Valentinus help the jailer's daughter? _______________________
8. How did Valentinus sign his good-bye note to the jailer's daughter? _______________
9. What festival did the Romans celebrate in mid-February? ___________________
10. Who was Cupid? ________________________________
6
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VOCABULARY REVIEW
1. Match the word on the left with the correct meaning on the right.
___ 1. legend A. cannot see
___ 2. origins B. a religious man of the church
___ 3. approximately C. one hundred years
___4. elementary D. respect
5. honor E. make an illness better
6. custom F. an old story
___ 7. blind G. given a punishment
8. cure H. tradition
___ 9. priest I. about, nearly
___ 10. century J. put to death
11. executed K. primary
12. sentenced L. beginnings
2. FiJI in the blanks with the correct word from the left column above.
1. Television was invented in the 20
th
2. Many scientists are trying to discover a for cancer.
3. Thc popUlation of Canada is 32 million.
4. He helped the man cross the strcet.
5. He is retiring next week. The company is going to have a party to him.
6. Is it a in your country to shake hands when you first meet someone?
7. The judge the robber to two years in jail.
8. The young couple wanted to be married by a _ _ ___________
9. Children learn to read and write in school.
10. There are many different ______________ about the origins of Valentine's Day.
11. He was for killing the policeman.
12. There are different beliefs about the ___...........___________ of our planet.
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1. love at first sight - falling in love the first time you meet someone
2. blind date - a social meeting or date with someone you have never met before; the date has been arranged
by a friend or family member
3. to fall (or be) head over heels in love - to love someone very much
4. to be madly in love - to love someone very much
5. to be crazy about someone - to like someone very much
6. to be heartbroken - to be very sad, usually because of a romantic loss
7. puppy love - young love between children or teenagers
8. pop the question - ask someone to marry you
9. love is blind - people do not see the faults in their lovers
10. a bed ofroses - a very easy or pleasant situation
11. love conquers all - love is strong enough to overcome all problems
12. to go out with someone - to have a steady, romantic relationship with someone
Choose the correct idiom or expression from above to fill in the blanks.
1. _____________________ is very sweet. It is the first kind of romantic love a
young person expenences.
2. John and Mary have been going out together for two years. Last week he bought a ring and now he is going
to ______________________
3. Susan doesn't like to go out on a _____________________. She prefers to meet
the boy first and then decide if she wants to have a date with him.
4. Robert's girlfriend left him. He still loves her very much. He is
5. Marriage is not always a ____________________. There are lots of difficult
times.
6. The first time Ken met Ann, he knew he wanted to marry her. It was
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FIND SOMEONE WHO...
1. is planning to buy flowers for someone today.
2. who = = , . ~ - " - - " = chocolate.
3. who has been on a blind date.
4. whose favorite flower is a rose.
5. who has fallen in love at first sight.
6. who likes the idea of arranged marriages.
7. who celebrated Valentine's Day in his/her country.
8. who sent someone a valentine.
9. who went on a honeymoon.
10. who can explain the festival of Lupercalia.
11. who has been head over heels in love.
12. who is planning something special for Valentine's Day.
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INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
HALLOWEEN ESL LESSON PLAN
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aHoween
October 31 is Halloween. This is not a holiday, but it is a very special day for children in Canada
and the United States. On Halloween, children dress up in costumes to disguise themselves. Some
wear masks and others wear makeup. In the evening, they walk around their neighborhoods and go
from door to door shouting "trick or treat", "Halloween apples" or "shell out". Children carry bags to
collect a variety of treats from their neighbors. People give out many different kinds of treats, such as
candy, chocolates, gum, popcorn, etc. In the past it was also very common to give children apples on
Halloween. Children usually collect many, many treats on this evening; the treats often last for several
weeks.
Children look forward to Halloween for a long time before the day actually arrives. They have fun
deciding what special disguise they will choose for Halloween and planning their costumes. Will
they be ghosts or witches, pumpkins or princesses, pirates or monsters, or perhaps this year, a famous
cartoon character or movie star? While some children wear store-bought costumes, many others like
to help their parents with the sewing or preparation of their own special outfit. On Halloween, some
children also collect money for UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Education Fund).
They carry small black and orange boxes to hold the money. It is a good idea to have change ready for
these children when they come to your door. Many elementary schools hold parties and celebrations on
Halloween. Children have fun bobbing for apples, carving pumpkins and sharing scary ghost stories.
Adults sometimes celebrate Halloween too. They have special Halloween parties and dress up in
costumes. One traditional custom of Halloween is to put a Jack 0' Lantern in the window. To make a
Jack 0' Lantern, we clean out the inside of a pumpkin, cut out a face, and put a candle inside. People
often decorate their homes with pictures of black cats, spiders, witches, bats, and ghosts. Because the
traditional colors of Halloween are black and orange, you can see many stores filled with products in
these colors. Bakeries sell cakes and cookies decorated for Halloween and grocery stores are filled with
large bags of Halloween treats.
Because Halloween is such a special day for children, it is important for parents to make sure their
children are safe on this day. Children should wear bright or light costumes so motorists can see
them easily. If children wear masks, the eye holes must be big enough for the children to see out
clearly. Small children should not go out alone "trick or treating". A parent or older brother or sister
should accompany them. Before children eat their treats, parents should examine them carefully.
Unfortunately, a cruel person might put something dangerous into the children's bags. This, of course,
does not happen very often, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!
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ESL library.com
Reading Comprehensiol1
Directions: Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then write the
answers in the spaces below.
1. When is Halloween?
2. Do people have to go to work on Halloween? ________________________
3. What do children wear on Halloween?
4. What do children do on Halloween?
5. Why is it a good idea to have a dish of nickels, dimes, quarters, etc. near your door on Halloween?
6. What do we usually see in people's windows on Halloween?
7. What kind of costumes do children wear on Halloween?
8. How do you make a Jack 0' Lantern? __________________________
9. What are the traditional colors of Halloween?
10. List four things parents and children can do to make Halloween a safe and fun evening.
11. Explain the expression: "It's better to be safe than sorry". Give an example.
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Vocabulary Review
A. Directions: Match the words on the left with the correct meaning on the right.
__ 1. disguise A. usual
2. mask B. yell
__3. neighborhood C. making you afraid
4. shout D. driver
5. collect E. coins
__6. variety F. something special
7. treat G. make beautiful by adding something
8. common H. bring together, gather
9. look forward to I. cut
10. outfit 1. covering for the face
__ 11. change K. move up and down
12. bob L. district or area where people live
13. carve M. a number of different things
__ 14. scary N. wait for something with happiness and excitement
15. decorate O. change your appearance to hide your identity
16. motorist P. clothing, or several pieces of clothing that go together
B. Choose the correct word or idiom from the left column above to complete the following sentences. (You
may have to change a verb tense.)
1. After the long, cold winter, I am to spring.
2. She couldn't sleep last night because she had seen a very __________ movIe.
3. The thief wore a during the bank robbery.
4. She bought a beautiful, new __________to wear to the party.
5. Many families gather together to a tree at Christmas.
6. If you don't have a bus pass or bus tickets, you need to have exact __________ when you take
a bus.
7. That bakery has a large __________ of cakes and cookies every day.
8. He doesn't want to move to a new apattment because right now he Iives in a very quiet, safe
9. Many children like to __________ for apples at Halloween parties.
10. She wore a long wig and dark glasses to her appearance.
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A.How to Carve a Jack O'Lantern for Halloween
Directions: The instructions given below are in the wrong order. Read the sentences and pnt them in the
right order.
___ Use a sharp knife and carve the pumpkin following your drawing.
___ Spread newspapers on a table and place the pumpkin on top.
___ Light a candle and drip some wax into the bottom of the pumpkin.
___ Draw a face on the pumpkin with a pen or pencil.
___ Cut a circle on the top of the pumpkin for a lid.
Blow the candle out and hold it firmly in the melted wax until the wax hardens.
___ Buy a pumpkin with at least one good side.
Put the seeds on a cookie sheet, add salt and bake in a warm oven till brown.
___ Get a pen or pencil, some newspaper, a spoon, a sharp knife, a pumpkin, a candle, a cookie sheet and
some salt.
Scrape out the inside (seeds and membranes) of the pumpkin with a spoon.
___ On Halloween evening, light the candle, put on the lid, and place in your front window.
___ Eat your delicious pumpkin seeds!
B. The Custom of Carving Jack 0' Lanterns
Directions: Choose the correct word from the list below to fill in the blanks.
lantern - represent tale resting wandering tricks carving burning
The custom of___________ Jack O'Lanterns comes from an old Irish folk ________
___ about a man named Jack. According to the story, Jack always liked to play ___________
on people and one time he played a trick on the Devil. When Jack died, he couldn't go to Heaven because he
had done many bad things in his life. He couldn't go to Hell either because he had played a trick on the Devil.
Since then, Jack has been ___________ around the earth looking for a final ________
place. He carries a to light his way in the darkness. Jack made his lantern by
putting a piece of coal inside a pumpkin. The colors of Halloween, orange and
black, the colors of pumpkins and the darkness of the night.
ESL librarycom
.. : .
. Pair Work - Sbaringlnformation - StudentA
Directions: You and your partner each have some information about the origins of Halloween. Read your
story and share your information with your partner. Together, complete the questions that follow the
story.
The Origins of Halloween
The customs of Halloween come from several different cultures. The early Celtic people of Great Britain
and Northern France, the Romans, and the early Christians all had festivals that influenced the celebration of
Halloween as we know it today.
The Celtic Orieins of Halloween
TIvo thousand years ago in northern Europe, the Celtic people worshipped nature and had many gods. The
Celts celebrated their New Year on November ]st. Thisfestival marked the end oftheir season oflight and the
beginning ofthe season ofcold and darkness. On October 31
st
, their New Year:S Eve, they gathered together
to honor their god, Samhain, (pronounced sow-en). Samhain was the God ofthe Dead. The Celts believed that
the spirits ofdead people came to life and wandered around outside at this time ofyea1: The Celtic people did
not want to be hurt by the spirits, so they dressed in costumes to disguise themselves ifthey had to go outside.
They also put candles in their windows to help the spirits find their way and they left offerings offood outside
their homes so the spirits would treat them kindly. This might explain our modern custom ofgiving treats on
Halloween.
Comprehension Questions
l. Where did the Celtic people live?
2. When did they celebrate New Year's Eve?
3. Who was Samhain?
4. Why did the Celts dress in costumes on October 31?
5. Explain the modem custom of giving treats on Halloween.
6. What festival did the Romans celebrate around the end of October?
7. Where did the custom of bobbing for apples originate?
8. What holiday did the Christians celebrate on November 1
st
?
9. How did the Christians celebrate All Soul's Day?
10. Explain the name Halloween.
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Directions: You and your partner each have some information about the origins ofHa1loween. Read your
story and share your information with your partner. Together, complete the questions that follow the
story.
The Origins ofHa1loween
The customs of Halloween come from several different cultures. The early Celtic people of Great Britain
and Northern France, the Romans, and the early Christians all had festivals that influenced the celebration of
Halloween as we know it today.
The Roman and Christian Ori2ins of Ha1loween
When the Romans invaded Britain, they brought many oftheir customs andfestivals with them. One ofthese
festivals, Pomona Day, took place around the end of October and honored Pomona, the Roman Goddess of
fruit and trees. The symbol ofPomona was the apple, which might explain the origin ofour modern custom of
bobbingfor apples. After hundreds ofyears, the festivals ofthe Celts and the Romans combined toform one
major fall holiday. With the spread ofChristianity, came new festivals. In the year 835, the Roman Catholic
church made a holiday on November I" to honor all the saints. This day was called All Saints day or All
Hallows. Many years later, the church made November 2
nd
All Soul S Day to honor the dead. People celebrated
by makingfires and dressing up as saints, devils and angels. After many years, the traditions ofthese holidays
and the holidays ofthe Celtic people combined and became known as Hallowed Evening and was celebrated on
October 3IS'. Eventually the name was shortened to Halloween.
Comprehension Questions
1. Where did the Celtic people live?
2. When did they celebrate New Year's Eve?
3. Who was Samhain?
4. Why did the Celts dress in costumes on October 31?
5. Explain the modern custom of giving treats on Halloween.
6. What festival did the Romans celebrate around the end of October?
7. Where did the custom of bobbing for apples originate?
8. What holiday did the Christians celebrate on November 1
st
?
9. How did the Christians celebrate All Soul's Day?
10. Explain the name Halloween.

<.)c
I{..J Hint
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ESL Ii brary'com
1. the apple of one's eye - someone's favorite person, a well-loved person
2. the Big Apple - New Vork city
3. to be as blind as a bat - to have very poor eye sight
4. to be as white as a ghost - to be very pale, to have no color in your face
5. to look like a skeleton - to be very thin
6. a jack of all trades - a person who has many skills
7. to mask one's feelings - to cover or hide one's true feelings
Exercise A: Choose the correct idiom or expression from the list above to complete the following
sentences.
1. My grandfather wears very thick glasses. He is ______________
2. I am velY excited about our vacation. We're going to the ________________
3. I never know if Mary is really happy or sad. She always ______________
4. Vou should start eating a lot more. You __________________
5. Mr. Baker is so proud of his youngest daughter. She is ______________
6. You look terrible! Are you feeling sick? You are _______________
7. Robelt is a _______________. He can fix anything.
Exercise B: Write your own sentences using the idioms above.
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Directions: Interview your classmates and try to find someone who ... (ex. is going to a Halloween party
this year.) When you find someone, write the person's name in the space provided. Then ask the person
another question related to the first one.
Find someone ...
1. who is a jack of all trades.
2. who is going to a Halloween party this year.
3. who made a costume for Halloween.
4. who has a similar celebration to Halloween in his or her country. ________
5. who believes in ghosts.
6. who has been to the Big Apple.
7. who is afraid of spiders.
8. who likes costume parties.
9. who is planning to put a pumpkin in his/her window.
10. who is going to give out Halloween treats this year.
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Intermediate Level
Thanksgiving ESL Lesson Plan
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Thanksgiving
Harvest festivals and thanksgiving celebrations have been held throughout the world for thousands of years. The
ancient Greeks held a three day festival every autumn to honor Demeter, their goddess of grain. The Romans
also held a fall festival honoring their goddess of corn, Ceres. This celebration included music, games, parades
and a thanksgiving feast. The ancient Egyptians honored their god of vegetation, Min, with a harvest festival as
well. Like the Romans, the Egyptians partied with music, dancing and sports.
The ancient Chinese celebrated a harvest festival called Chung Ch'ui. This holiday fell on the 15
th
day of the
8
th
month in the lunar calendar. Still today, Chinese all over the world remember this special festival by baking
round, yellow "moon" cakes to symbolize the beautiful, full moon. The autumn festival of Sukkoth, celebrated
by the ancient Hebrew people, is still celebrated today by Jewish families around the world. Sukkoth is named
for the huts or succots that people lived in as they wandered through the desert. These small huts were built of
branches and could be easily put together and taken apart. Today many Jewish families build symbolic huts and
decorate them with fruit and vegetables and eat their evening meal under the stars, remembering their ancestors'
harvest celebrations of long ago.
Thanksgiving ceremonies were held in North America by the Native people long before the arrival of European
settlers. Like other cultures around the world, the Natives showed thanks for their harvests by singing, dancing
and praying. The American thanksgiving holiday that we know today began in the early days of the American
colonies almost four hundred years ago. In 1620, a group of about 100 people left England looking for religious
freedom and a better life in America. This group of people, called the Pilgrims, had wanted to separate from the
Church of England and start their own church in the New World. When they arrived, their first winter was very
difficult and many of them died from starvation and disease.
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reading continued ...
The following year, a group ofNative Americans began to teach the settlers many things about survival in their
new land. They taught them how to grow com and other crops in the unfamiliar soil, how to collect sap from
the maple trees to make syrup, how to gather wild rice and collect berries. They also taught them how to fish
and hunt. In 1621 the Pilgrims had a very successful harvest and they were able to put away food for the long
winter ahead. That year the colonists had a lot to be thankful for, so they planned a large feast and celebrated
for three days. They invited the Natives to their celebration because they had taught them so much about how
to live in America. In the following years, the colonists continued to celebrate their harvest with a feast of
thanks. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving to be a national holiday. Although the
original thanksgiving feast occurred sometime in late October, now Americans celebrate the fourth Thursday in
November as their official day of thanksgiving.
Canadians share many thanksgiving traditions with their neighbors to the south. In fact, the first known North
American celebration ofthanksgiving by Europeans took place in Newfoundland, Canada. The English settlers,
led by the explorer Martin Frobisher, held a traditional British harvest feast in the year 1578. For many years
after, Canadians continued to hold thanksgiving celebrations whenever they had a good reason to rejoice.
Sometimes they celebrated because of a military victory; other times it was recovery from illness. In 1870, the
Canadian government decided to officially mark a day of thanksgiving. Because the growing season is shorter
in Canada and the harvest comes earlier, Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving earlier than Americans. Since 1957,
Canadian Thanksgiving has been held on the second Monday in October.
In both Canada and the United States, Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family and friends. It is a day to
stop working and to give thanks for one's life, health, family, food, and freedom. Some people spend time
praying in their churches while others spend a day of relaxing at home. Most families share a festive meal
together with traditional dishes such as turkey and stuffing, mashed potatoes, squash or turnips, cranbeny sauce
and of course, the traditional pumpkin pie for dessert.
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Comprehension
A. Match the people on the left with the celebration, symbol, or date on the right.
1. ancient Greeks A. 4th Thursday in November
2. Canadians B. moon festival
__3. ancient Egyptians C. Ceres
4. ancient Hebrews D.Min
5. Romans E. 2
nd
Monday in October
6. Chinese F. Sukkoth
7. Americans G. Demeter
B. Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner. Then write the answers in
your notebooks.
1. Who did the ancient Greeks honor in their three day autumn festival?
2. Why do the Chinese eat little, yellow, round cakes on the 15
th
day of the 8
th
month of the lunar calendar?
3. Who celebrates the holiday of Sukkoth?
4. Who was Min?
5. How did Native Americans celebrate their harvest festivals?
6. Why did the Pilgrims leave England?
7. How did the new American settlers learn to survive in their new land?
8. Why is Canadian Thanksgiving earlier than American Thanksgiving?
9. How do Canadians and Americans spend Thanksgiving Day?
10. Describe a traditional Thanksgiving meal in Canada or United States.
11. Do you have a day of thanksgiving in your country? If so, describe it.
12. What is your favorite holiday in your country? What are the customs and traditional foods associated
with this holiday?
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Vocabulary
1. honor A. hunger, not enough food
2. harvest B. fall
3. lunar C. small house or shelter
4. autumn D. make more beautiful
5. hut E. sickness, illness
6. wander F. show respect for
7. decorate G. family from long ago
8. ancestors H. go from place to place
9. settler 1. person who starts to live in a new place
10. colony J. taking grain and vegetables from the land
11. starvation K. a new country or place settled by people from another country
12. disease L. of the moon
B. Uuderline the word(s) with the closest meaning to the word in italics.
I. gather a. understand b. live c. collect d. fight
2. sap a. bird b. hunt c.egg d. liquid from a tree
3. crop a. plant b. fish c. find d. animal
4. survive a. travel b. live c. die d. study
5. ancient a. new b. usual c. old d. happy
6. soil a.lake b. river c.earth d. new
7. tradition a. party b. custom c. costume d. unusual
C. Odd One Out - Underline the word or expression that does not belong.
1. feast celebration study meal
2. turkey goose beef chicken
3. occur find happen take place
4. victory failure success wmmng
5. unfamiliar strange same different
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Symbols ofThanks2ivin2
Directions: You and your partner each have two short readings about some of the symbols of
Thanksgiving. Share your information with your partner.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is traditionally eaten with turkey at the Thanksgiving meal. Cranberry sauce or cranberry jelly
was on the first thanksgiving table hundreds ofyears ago and is still served today. A cranberry is a small, red,
sour berry that grows in soft, wet ground called bogs. The Native Americans used cranberries as medicine to
treat infections. They also used the red juice ofthe cranberries to dye their rugs and blankets. When the early
European settlers came to America, the Natives taught them how to cook the berries with water and sweet sap
from the trees to make a sauce. The settlers thought that the flower of the cranberries looked like a long-necked
bird called a crane and so they began to call the berry "crane-berry". Cranberries are still grown in North
America today and they remain a traditional part ofour Thanksgiving dinners.
Tire Cornucopia
One of the most common symbols of Thanksgiving is the cornucopia, which is also called the horn ofplenty. The
cornucopia is a symbol ofthe productivity ofnature. This symbol originated in ancient Greek times.
Practice asking and answering the following questions with your partner.
1.Where do cranberries grow?
2. Describe a cranberry.
3. What did the Native Americans use cranberries for?
4. How did the early European settlers learn to make cranberry sauce?
5. Where did the name cranberry come from?
6. Why did the early settlers not know how to grow pumpkins when they first arrived?
7. What kind of plants did the early European settlers first try to grow?
8. How did the settlers learn to grow squash?
9. Why did the settlers invite the Natives to their first thanksgiving feast?
10. How is the turkey we eat today different from the turkey the early settlers ate.
11. What is another name for cornucopia?
12. Where did the symbol of the cornucopia originate?
13. What did the cornucopia symbolize?
14. What was the original cornucopia made from?
15. How do many people decorate their Thanksgiving tables nowadays?
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Symbols ofThanksa:ivina:
Directions: You and your partner each have a short reading about one of the symbols ofThanksgiving. Share your
information with your partner.
Pumpkins and Turkey
Pumpkins and other kinds ofsquash did not grow in the Old World, so the early European settlers had never
seen them before they came to America. When the settlers first arrived, they tried to grow the plants they were
familiar with, but they did not succeed. The Native Americans introduced the new settlers to the big, new
vegetables and showed them how to grow them. The Europeans were very gratejitl when they had their first
successful harvest ofpumpkins and squash and held a big feast to celebrate. These vegetables have been a
Thanksgiving tradition ever since. Squash is usually served with the main course andpumpkin pie remains a
favorite for dessert.
A turkey is a large North American bird When the settlers held their first Thanksgiving dinner, they invited the
Natives who had taught them how to survive in the long, cold winter. The Natives brought deer meat to roast for
the meal, as well as fresh wild turkeys. Turkey has been the main course at Thanksgiving dinners since that first
celebration. However, the turkeys we eat today are usually farm-raised and are no longer wild
The Cornucopia
The original cornucopia was a curved goat shornfilled with fruit and grain. Nowadays people often decorate
their Thanksgiving tables with horn shaped baskets filled with fruit and vegetables.
I.Where do cranberries grow?
2. Describe a cranberry.
3. What did the Native Americans use cranberries for?
4. How did the early European settlers leam to make cranberry sauce?
5. Where did the name cranberry come from?
6. Why did the early settlers not know how to grow pumpkins when they first arrived?
7. What kind of plants did the early European settlers first try to grow?
8. How did the settlers leam to grow squash?
9. Why did the settlers invite the Natives to their first thanksgiving feast?
10. How is the turkey we eat today different from the turkey the early settlers ate.
11. What is another name for comucopia?
12. Where did the symbol of the comucopia originate?
13. What did the comucopia symbolize?
14. What was the original comucopia made from?
15:,.J:low do many people decorate their Thanksgiving tables nowadays?

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Vocabulary, Idioms And Expressions
1. to be grateful- to be thankful
2. to appreciate - to be thankful, to be grateful
3. to be appreciative - to be thankful
4. to show your gratitude - to show someone that you are grateful
5. thank goodness - an expression used to express relief
6. thank heavens - same as thank goodness
7. thanks a million - thank you very much, thanks a lot
8. you can thank your lucky stars - you were very lucky
9. to count your blessings - to be very thankful for what you have
10. to feel or be stuffed - to feel very full from eating a lot
11. to go or quit something cold turkey - to quit a habit all at once, not gradually
12. to talk turkey - to discuss a deal very seriously
Choose one of the above words or expressions to complete the following sentences.
1. If the owner ofthe business really wants to sell, he will _____________
2. I am very _____________to you for all your help.
3. Last night he threw a full package of cigarettes in the garbage. He decided to
4. You can ______________ that a doctor was close by when you had your healt attack. You
almost died.
5. Thanksgiving is a day for all of us to _________________
6. _______________for everything you have done for me!
7. you arrived safely! We were very won-ied about you.
8. I can't eat another thing! I feel _____________
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Directions: Circulate around the classroom asking your classmates questions. Try to find someone .....
1. who is planning to have a turkey dinner this Thanksgiving.
2. who likes pumpkin pie.
3. who has tried cranberry sauce before.
4. who has quit something cold turkey.
5. who can thank hislher lucky stars for something.
6. who celebrated a harvest or thanksgiving festival in hislher country.
7. who would rather eat turkey than beef.
8. who felt very stuffed recently.
9. who counts his/her blessings.
10. who is planning to go away this Thanksgiving holiday.
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Intermediate Level
Christmas ESL Lesson Plan
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Christmas
Christmas, which is celebrated on December 25, is one of the biggest celebrations of the year in many countries
around the world. It is both a religious and a secular holiday. In most countries where Christmas is celebrated, it
is a legal or statutory holiday. Most workers receive at least one or two days offwork, and children often have a
two-week vacation at this time. Christmas is a very important day for members of the Christian religion because
it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. At church services everywhere, Christians retell the story of the birth
of Jesus in the manger in Bethlehem.
Although Christmas is celebrated on the 25
th
of December, the Christmas season actually lasts for almost a
month. In many countries, from mid-November on, it is impossible to forget that Christmas is coming. Streets,
homes and shops are fi lied with colorful Christmas Iights and decorations. Shopping centers are full of people
doing their Christmas shopping. In fact, the weeks preceding Christmas are the busiest shopping weeks of
the year. In most western countries, many retailers make up 70% of their annual sales in the month before
Christmas.
Many of the present day customs that we associate with Christmas actually originated in pagan festivals long
ago. Thousands of years ago, celebrations were often held around the time of the winter solstice. People were
often afraid when the sun disappeared during the long, cold nights of winter. When the days finally began to
grow longer, they celebrated the return of the sun by making great bonfires, serving large festive meals, and
exchanging gifts. After the birth of Christ, many of these traditions of the old pagan festivals were combined
with the celebration of Christmas.
Probably the most recognizable, non-religious symbol of Christmas is that of Santa Claus. Pictures can be seen
everywhere of the jolly, old man with the long white beard, big stomach, and red suit. Children in Canada and
the United States believe that Santa Claus lives in the North Pole where he makes toys with his helpful, little
elves. On Christmas Eve, December 24, he travels through the sky on a sled pulled by reindeer. He lands on
the roof of people's homes, enters through the chimney, and leaves wonderful gifts for all the good Iittle boys
and girls. In some countries, December 6 is celebrated in a similar way as Saint Nicolas Day. In the weeks
before Christmas, Santa Claus often appears in many stores and shopping centers throughout the cities. Excited
children wait in long lines to sit on Santa's lap, have their pictures taken with him, and tell him what presents
they are hoping to receive at Christmas.
Besides being a religious celebration and a wonderful, exciting time for children, Christmas is also an important
time for family gatherings. People travel long distances to spend time with their family at this time of the year.
Singing Christmas carols, decorating the family Christmas tree, hanging stockings by the fire, and exchanging
cards and gifts are all part of the holiday season. Of course, food is also a very important part of the Christmas
celebration. Stuffed turkey with mashed potatoes still remains the most traditional meal served at Christmas
dinners, but other wonderful Christmas dishes, holiday baking and special festive treats fill the homes of all who
celebrate this season.
ESL library.com
Comprehension
spaces provided.
1. Do most people in North America work on December 25? Why or why not?
2. What is the significance of Christmas for members of the Christian religion?
3. Why is Christmas such an important time for North American retailers?
4. Where did many ofthe modern day customs of Christmas originate?
5. Why were many pagan festivals held during the time of the winter solstice?
6. Describe Santa Claus.
7. Where does Santa Claus live? Who does he live with?
8. When is Saint Nicolas Day celebrated in many countries?
9. What is the traditional meal served at Christmas dinners?
10. List six activities mentioned in the article that are associated with the Christmas
season.
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Vocabulary Exercise
l. secular A. trade
__2. statutory B. corne before
3. commemorate C. vehicle for the snow
___ 4. gathering D. alike, the same
5. decorated E. legal, according to the law
__6. precede F. large outdoor fire
___ 7. originate G. hair on the face
__ 8. disappear H. show up, corne
9. bonfire r. ingredients and instructions for cooking
__ 10. exchange J. not religious
11. beard K. meeting, corning together
12. sled L. go out of sight, can't be seen
13. similar M. honor the memory, remember
__ 14. appear N. made to look more beautiful
__ 15. recipe O. come from
B. Choose the correct word from the list above to complete the following sentences.
(You may have to change tbe verb tense.)
1. November 11 is a day to all the people who died in both World Wars.
2. January February on the calendar.
3. She the Christmas cake with red and green candies.
4. Many children in elementary schools cards on Valentine's Day.
5. The twin sisters look so . I don't know who is who.
6. Your chocolate cake is delicious! Can you please give me the _________
7. We have a big family every Thanksgiving.
8. Santa Claus travels through the sky on a pulled by reindeer.
9. When we went camping last summer, we sat around the every
evening and roasted hot dogs and marshmallows.
10. Thanksgiving is a holiday in Canada and United States.
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Vocabulary #2
C. Underline the word(s) with the closest meaning to the word in italics.
1. carol - a. box b. tree c. song d. gift
2. gift- a. custom b. show c.cake d. present
3.jolly a.happy b. fat c. big d. kind
4. retailer a. receIver b. seller c. do again d. someone who sews
5. stuffed - a. always b. fat c. full d. turkey
6. custom- a. tradition b. gift c. feast d. meal
7. manger- a. boss b. box c. sleep d. dress
8. annual- a. always b. daily c. apple d. yearly
9. merry- a. girl b. happy c. a lot d. funny
10. pagan a. new b. paper c. festival d. non-religious
D. Odd One Out - Underline the one that does not belong.
1. fear be afraid believe be scared
2. chimney basement roof smoke
3. solstice December 21 June 21 October 31
4. Santa Claus reindeer South Pole elves
5. lap leg arm seat
6. recognizable easy to notice easy to know believable
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Holiday Time - Group Work
Complete the chart below by asking your partners questions about their favorite holiday.
Classmate #1 Classmate # 2 Classmate #4
(me) name: name:
Name of favorite
holiday
Time of year
Statutory holiday
Religious or secu
lar holiday
Symbols, tradi
tions, customs of
the holiday
Traditional cloth
ing
Special food
Decorations
Gifts
Cards
Why is this your favorite holiday? ____________________________
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Pair Work - Reading and Sharing Information - Student A
Symbols of Christmas
Directions: You and your partner each have some information about symbols of Christmas. Read your
information and then share it with your partner.
At Christmas time, many people like to decorate their doors with Christmas wreaths. A wreath is a bunch
offlowers or leaves that have been twisted together to make a circle. The Christmas wreath is a symbol of
everlasting life because the shape is an unbroken circle, and the branches come from an evergreen tree, which
remains green all winter.
Mistletoe is an evergreen plant with small white berries. It has been used as a decoration for thousands of
years. In ancient times, people believed that the plant had special magical powers and they often used it in their
special ceremonies. In Scandinavia, the mistletoe was associated with their goddess oflove andpeace, Frigga.
This connection between the mistletoe and love probably explains our custom ofkissing whenever we meet
someone under the mistletoe. In the early years ofChristianity. the church did not allow people to use mistletoe
because ofits pagan origins. Instead, the church priests suggested the use ofholly as a decoration. Holly is
also an evergreen plant. It has sharp, shiny, pointed leaves and red berries. The pointed leaves represent the
thorns in Christ's crown and the red berries represent his drops ofblood Because ofthis, red and green have
become the traditional colors ofChristmas. Holly is used as a common decoration throughout the Christmas
season and remains an important symbol ofChristmas today.
The poinsettia is a tropical plant with large red leaves. In 1828, Dr. Joel Poinsett, thefirst United States
ambassador to Mexico, saw the beautiful Mexican plant and decided to bring itfrom Mexico to his own country.
Since then, the poinsettia has become a traditional Christmas plant that can be found in homes, offices and
shops throughout North America during the Christmas season.
1. Why is the Christmas wreath a symbol of everlasting life?
2. What are the traditional colors of Christmas?
3. Where did the custom of kissing under the mistletoe come from?
4. Why did ancient people often use mistletoe in their special celebrations?
5. Why is holly used as a Christmas decoration?
6. Why did people long ago believe that evergreen trees were magical?
7. Where did the custom of decorating Christmas trees originate?
8. How did the custom of decorating a tree spread to England?
9. What does the shape of a candy cane represent?
1O.When were candy canes first made?
11. When and where did the custom of sending Christmas cards originate?
12. List six common symbols of Christmas.
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Pair Work - Reading and Sharing Information - Student B
Symbols of Christmas
Directions: You and your partner each have some information about symbols of Christmas. Read your
information and then share it with your partner.
Thousands ofyears ago people believed that evergreen trees were magical because they stayed strong and
green during the winter when other trees became brown and bare. The evergreen tree became a symbol oflife
and hope and joy. The tradition ofdecorating a Christmas tree originated in Germany around the 16
th
century.
It became common for German people to decorate fir trees with candles, fruit or colored paper. This custom
spread to England in the 19
th
century when Queen Victoria married a German prince named Albert. Albert put
up a Christmas tree in the royal palace to remind him ofhis homeland. Later the tradition spread from England
to North America. Nowadays, Christmas trees are decorated with fancy ornaments, colored lights, shiny paper,
candy canes, stars and angels.
Candy sticks have been around for hundreds ofyears, but it wasnl until the late 1800 sthat they were decorated
with red stripes and bent into the shapes ofcanes. A candy maker in United States wanted to make a candy
that would represent Christmas. Calldy calles represent the staffs or sticks used by the shepherds who traveled
to Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus. Ifyou turn a candy cane upside down, it looks like the letter J This shape
symbolizes the first letter ofJesus' name. The red in a candy cane represents the blood ofChrist.
The custom ofsending Christmas cards to family and friends originated in England. The first Christmas card
was made by Sir HenlY Cole in 1843. At about this same time, the public mail delivery systemfirst started. The
original Christmas cards were handmade and very expensive. As printing methods and mail delivery improved,
Christmas cards became more and more popular. Nowadays millions ofChristmas cards are sent all over the
world each year.
1. Why is the Christmas wreath a symbol of everlasting life?
2. What are the traditional colors of Christmas?
3. Where did the custom of kissing under the mistletoe come from?
4. Why did ancient people often use mistletoe in their special celebrations?
5. Why is holly used as a Christmas decoration?
6. Why did people long ago believe that evergreen trees were magical?
7. Where did the custom of decorating Christmas trees originate?
8. How did the custom of decorating a tree spread to England?
9. What does the shape of a candy cane represent?
10.When were candy canes first made?
11. When and where did the custom of sending Christmas cards originate?
12. List six common symbols of Christmas.
ESL library.com
Review - Symbols of Christmas
wreath - mistletoe holly - poinsettia - Christmas tree candy cane - Christmas card
Directions: Read your partner's reading on the symbols of Christmas. Then write the correct symbol that
is associated with each of the following:
1. Sir Henry Cole
2. Goddess of Love, Frigga
3. Prince Albert
4. 1843
5. Mexico
6. kiss under it
7. place it on your door
8. shepherd's staff
9. Germany
10. red and green
Santa Claus
Fill in the blanks with the correct word from the list below to complete the story of Santa Claus
jolly c:ppearance - century - kind - climbed - dry red - spread
tradition - chimney - generosity - stocking - sled
The of Santa Claus or Father Christmas began with a real person named Saint Nicolas. He
was born in Turkey in the 4th . Saint Nicolas was a very and
generous man. He liked to help poor people by giving them money, but he didn't want them to know about his
______. According to one story, Saint Nicolas once up on the roof of a house and
dropped a bag of money down the The money landed in a which
a young girl had placed by the fire to . The legend of Saint Nicolas _______
to many countries. For many years after Saint Nicolas' death, children in Holland left out their wooden shoes in
the hopes that Saint Nicolas would fill them with treats. The Dutch called Saint Nicolas, Sinterklaas. In English,
the name became Santa Claus. Over the years, the ________of Santa Claus changed too. In early
pictures, he often appeared tall and thin, dressed in a brown or green suit. In 1822, a man named Clement Moore
wrote a famous poem called "The Night Before Christmas". In this poem, Moore described Santa as a ___
___fat man in a suit riding in a pulled by reindeer. Gradually, this
image of Santa became very popular. Nowadays, children hang stockings by the fire on Christmas Eve and wait
for Santa to come and fill them with treats and toys.
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Vocabulary, Idioms and Expressions
l.to be in tbe red -losing money, showing a financial loss
2. to be caugbt red-banded - to be caught while doing something bad
3. red tape - difficult government forms and procedures
4. lay (roll) out tbe red carpet - give a special welcome and special treatment to a special person
5. to give (get) tbe green ligbt - to give (get) the okay or approval to do something
6. to be green witb envy - to be very jealous of someone, to want what he/she has
7. bave a green tbumb - to be good at gardening
8. to feel or be stuffed - to feel very full from eating a lot
9. to go (or quit sometbing) cold turkey - to quit a habit all at once, not gradually
10. to talk turkey - to discuss a deal very seriously
Cboose one of tbe words or expressions above to complete tbe following sentences.
1. My neighbor bought a beautiful new car. My car is almost twenty years old. I am
2. When the Queen comes to our city, we wi 11 __________________ for her.
3. I can't eat another thing! I feel _____________________
4. Mary's flowers are always beautiful. She must have a _________________
5. The robber was ________________________ with his hand full of money.
6. Last night she threw her full package of cigarettes in the garbage. She decided to
7. I think that business will have to close soon. It has been ______________ for several years.
8. You shouldn't start the project until the boss gives you ____________________
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..N'
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l
-------------
Walk around the class and ask your classmates questions. Find someone ....
l.who has a Christmas tree.
2. who has sent Christmas cards this year.
3. who has felt green with envy.
4. who has a green thumb.
5. who goes to church on Christmas eve or Christmas day. ___________
6. who is planning to have a turkey for Christmas dinner.
7. who quit smoking cold turkey ..
8. who has a lot of Christmas shopping to do.
9. whose favorite holiday is Christmas.
10. who has decorated hislher house with Christmas lights.
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Developing Skills for the iBT TOEFL

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