In thinking about our lessons, teachers should always try to be unconventional in the topics they cover in their ESL classes. Students study English for years and therefore should be exposed to a variety of topics that will hopefully also be meaningful to them.

Success and Failure language:
Alternatives to good: splendid, terrific, superb, up to scratch, outstanding, adequate
success and failure: it pays off, to keep up with, to stay ahead of, works like magic, does the trick, blessing in disguise, makes all the difference
Brainstorming: Would you consider… How about… Let’s go with/I’d go for, I think we are on the wrong track, I’m torn between…, It’d be great if we could