Today, we will be exploring some English learning tips inspired by a discussion on artificial intelligence (AI). This blog lessons aims to help you improve your language skills by focusing on the topic of AI, which is increasingly becoming a part of our daily lives. Let’s dive in!

1. Talking about the news

When discussing news related to AI, remember that ‘news’ is an uncountable noun. Although it ends with an ‘-s’, we cannot use it in the plural. Use ‘some news’ or ‘a piece of news’ when referring to a single item of news.

Example:
Incorrect: I read an interesting news about AI yesterday. ❌
Correct: I read some interesting news about AI yesterday. ✔️

2. Pronunciation – machine

The word ‘machine’ contains the ‘ch’ consonant blend, but it is not pronounced as /tʃ/ like in ‘cheese’. Instead, it is pronounced as /ʃ/ like ‘sheep’, and the main stress is on the second syllable (/məˈʃiːn/).

3. Discussing technology and AI in English learning

When talking about AI in English language learning, consider using relevant vocabulary such as “machine learning,” “natural language processing,” and “chatbot.” Discuss how AI-based language learning platforms and applications can help learners improve their grammar, pronunciation, and listening skills.

4. Describing human intelligence and AI in English

Practice using comparative language to describe the differences between human intelligence and AI. Use phrases like “unlike humans,” “in contrast to AI,” and “while human learners” to make comparisons. Discuss the pros and cons of AI in language learning, focusing on grammar, vocabulary acquisition, and pronunciation.

5. AI-related vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary by learning AI-related terms and phrases. For instance, become familiar with words like “algorithm,” “data analysis,” “deep learning,” and “neural network.” Use these terms in sentences and conversations to solidify your understanding and improve your English fluency.

6. Future of AI and English language learning

Talk about the potential impact of AI on English language learning in the future. Consider using modal verbs (e.g., “could,” “might,” “may”) to express possibilities and predictions. Discuss whether AI will make learning English easier or more accessible, and how it might change the role of traditional language teachers.

Discussion Topics

Put your new knowledge into action by discussing these topics with friends in English or join the Gallery Teachers Speaking Club for even more practice. Part of the Open Learning membership, Speaking Club offers a great opportunity to improve your speaking skills, connect with language enthusiasts, and get feedback from experienced native-level teachers.

Chatbots and ChatGPT

  1. What is a chatbot, according to the video? Have you ever had a conversation with a chatbot? 
  2. What is ChatGPT and OpenAI, according to the video? Have you used ChatGPT or similar software? 
  3. What question would you ask ChatGPT?
  4. How do you think AI will affect education, including essay writing?
  5. When does Callum Chance (AI Speaker and Writer) think we will have systems that are ‘as smart as humans?’ Does this surprise you? 
  6. Do you agree that AI software is ‘growing too quickly?’
  7. What more could ChatGPT and similar software be capable of in the future?

AI and you

  1. What is the difference between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and human intelligence? 
  2. Are you concerned about the future of AI? Are you optimistic or pessimistic about the effect of AI on society and why? 
  3. How would you like AI to help you in your life?
  4. How do you think AI will affect the type of work you do? 
  5. Do you think that one day AI will replace the need for people to work? Do you think this is a good or a bad thing? 
  6. Have you ever read a science fiction book or watched a ‘sci-fi’ film that included AI? What was the story?
  7. Do you think that AI could become more intelligent than humans? Why (not?) 
  8. What do you think AI will look like 100 years from now

Activities & Questions

Now it’s time to put your knowledge into practice. Write your response to the AI EFL Expert Gale below.

Activity 1: talk to AI Gale about the future of AI and mankind.

Activity 2: engage in a chat about your hobbies with AI Gale

For Teachers: Lesson Plan Idea

Looking for a lesson plan tailored to your students’ level or assistance in creating teaching materials? Meet Gale, your AI EFL Expert! With Gale’s help, you can create engaging and effective lessons that meet your students’ needs.

Level: Intermediate

Objective: To improve English language skills through the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on society and education.

Materials:

  • Video on AI and English language learning
  • Worksheets on vocabulary and grammar related to AI
  • Discussion questions related to AI and its impact on society and education
  • Writing prompts related to AI and its future

Warm-up (10 minutes): Start the lesson by asking students if they have heard of AI and what they know about it. Discuss with the class what AI is and its applications in daily life.

Presentation (30 minutes): Show the video on AI and English language learning. Have students take notes on new vocabulary or expressions related to AI. After the video, discuss the content and ask students for their opinions on the use of AI in language learning.

Divide the class into pairs or small groups and provide them with worksheets on vocabulary and grammar related to AI. Have them work together to complete the worksheets and ask them to share their answers with the class.

Practice (30 minutes): Ask students to discuss the discussion questions related to AI and its impact on society and education. Encourage them to use new vocabulary and expressions related to AI in their responses.

After the discussion, have students complete writing prompts related to AI and its future. Ask them to write a short paragraph or essay on their thoughts and predictions.

Wrap-up (10 minutes): Ask students to share their writing prompts with the class. Encourage them to ask questions and provide feedback to each other.

Have a class discussion on what they have learned about AI and its impact on society and education. Ask them to reflect on how they can use this knowledge to improve their English language skills.

Assessment: Students will be assessed based on their participation in class discussions and their ability to use new vocabulary and expressions related to AI in their writing prompts. The completed worksheets will also serve as a form of assessment.

Gale – Gallery Teachers’ AI EFL Tutor

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