Workplace Lesson Idea: Making Introductions

Our introduction customs may differ from those of ESL students. Practicing introductions in the safety of the classroom will give them the confidence to use this skill in their workplace.

• Blackboard or whiteboard & chalk or markers.
• Student handout: Introductions

• Warm-up: Ask students how many people they met on their first day on the job. What were their names and positions?
• Target Vocabulary: co-workers, supervisor, manager, boss, new hires.
• List common introductory phrases on the board: "I'd like you to meet... ", "I'd like to introduce you to...", "(first name), this is (first name)", "Pleased to meet you", "My pleasure."
• Model the introduction process with a student or co-teacher, and then have the others practice in pairs. Use the Introductions handout.
• Talk about the American custom of shaking hands.
• Vary the exercise by introducing “co-workers” to each other, to the boss, or to new workers. Practice welcoming the new hires to the workplace.