How do successful teams communicate, make decisions, solve problems, and avoid common workplace mistakes?
In this Business English lesson, students explore the realities of teamwork through interactive challenges, a team personality quiz, discussion tasks, and a TED Talk based on the famous Marshmallow Challenge. Along the way, they develop key workplace vocabulary and discuss concepts such as leadership, communication, decision-making, group dynamics, and problem-solving.
The lesson begins with a teamwork challenge that quickly reveals different communication styles before students analyse their own approach to collaboration through a team member personality quiz. They then work with practical business expressions such as high-stakes, jockeying for power, pull your weight, hit a wall, and up the ante before discussing real-world workplace scenarios.
Students also explore why some teams outperform others through a TED Talk listening activity before taking part in a Blind Drawing Challenge that highlights the importance of clear communication, active listening, and effective collaboration. Separate downloadable images for the final challenge are included, with both a Standard and an Advanced version available.
Ideal for Business English, university, and professional learners, this lesson provides meaningful speaking practice while exploring the skills that help teams perform effectively under pressure.
