The Weight of Fame
Grammar: Discourse markers and contrast language
A Level 6 English lesson exploring media.
What's in this lesson
A Level 6 (proficiency) ESL lesson on media, practising discourse markers and contrast language. The worksheet has a reading, target vocabulary and discussion questions.
From the reading: The Weight of Fame
When Irish singer-songwriter CMAT performed at BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend festival in Sunderland on 24 May, she did what she always does: she commanded a stage. What followed online, however, was a torrent of commentary not about her voice, her songwriting, or the reception she received from the crowd, but about her body. Last Thursday, CMAT — whose full name is Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson — posted a lengthy response on Instagram, describing a situation she called, with characteristic dry wit, "literally so boring" for "a gorgeous genius" to keep having to address.
Vocabulary
- commands a stage
- drawn a sharp contrast
- shied away from
- wade in
- amplified
- commanded
- drew
- tarnished
Discussion questions
- Does fame make people more vulnerable or more protected?
- Should public figures be expected to respond to online abuse publicly?
- How much has the internet changed what it means to be a performer?
The Weight of Fame
Grammar: Discourse markers and contrast language
What's in this lesson:
Full lesson plan with reading, grammar, vocabulary, and discussion.
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