Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: Problems and Solutions
Explore problems and solutions with eight useful expressions, including sort out, break down, give up. Read the meanings and examples, then use the language in eight B1 discussion questions.
What’s in the worksheet?
- Eight expressions with meanings and example sentences
- Eight matching discussion questions
- One printable page
- Open-ended speaking practice
Practise eight B1 expressions for dealing with problems and deciding when to continue or pause. Sorting out a difficulty, asking around and taking one step at a time offer different responses.
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A simple way to teach it
Before the lesson
Use the adults/teens single page. The eight prompts have no fixed key; imagined setbacks can replace personal examples.
- Read the examples and distinguish a machine breaking down from a person deciding to give up. Compare carry on with take a break.
- Discuss the prompts in pairs, giving reasons for seeking help, pausing or continuing. Use calm down without prescribing one response for everyone.
- Plan an imaginary move one step at a time and explain whom you would ask around for help. Review natural collocations in the answers.
Support and extension
Offer a harmless booking problem for support. Extend by comparing two possible solutions; the car-breakdown question is discussion practice, not practical roadside-safety instruction.
Suggested approach. Adjust the pace and number of questions to suit your class.
