Use this lesson with secondary and adult students at CEFR Level B2 to discuss the theme of lies in Shakespeare's play 'Othello'. 

A scene from Othello

Introduction

This lesson introduces students to the theme of lies in Shakespeare's 'Othello'. Students read about the main characters of the play and identify the meanings of adjectives used to describe them. They read a short summary of the first part of the play and predictions about the rest of the plot. They make their own predictions using a range of structures e.g. 'is certain / bound / likely to'... They listen to a summary of the play to check their predictions, and answer questions to check their understanding of events. Finally, they discuss the theme of lies and lying. 

Teachers can print a student worksheet to accompany the lesson, or they can use a presentation for a no printing option. An audioscript is also available. 

Topic:

The use of lies in Shakespeare’s play 'Othello'

Learning outcomes:

  • Say if adjectives to describe personality have a positive, negative or neutral meaning
  • Describe the key events of Shakespeare's play 'Othello'
  • Use a variety of structures to make predictions about a plot
  • Listen for specific information in a dialogue describing the plot of 'Othello'
  • Participate in a discussion about lies and lying and give opinions

Age and level:

13-17, Adults (B2+)

Time:

Approximately 85 minutes or two shorter lessons

Materials:

The following materials can be downloaded below.

  • Lesson plan (PDF)
  • Student worksheet (PDF)
  • Presentation (PowerPoint or PDF)
  • Audio (MP3)
  • Audioscript (PDF)

Research and insight

Browse fascinating case studies, research papers, publications and books by researchers and ELT experts from around the world.

See our publications, research and insight