Level 3Work

What Does 'Career' Even Mean?

Grammar: Conditionals

A Level 3 English lesson exploring work.

workconditionals

What's in this lesson

A Level 3 (intermediate) ESL lesson on work, practising conditionals. The worksheet has a reading, target vocabulary, a grammar reference with practice and discussion questions.

From the reading: What Does 'Career' Even Mean?

Not every language has a word for 'career'. In Japanese, the word shigoto means work — but it also means duty. In Arabic, mihna is closer to vocation, a calling, something you were meant to do. Neither word is quite the same as the English idea of a career ladder you climb step by step. That difference matters.

Vocabulary

  • build a craft
  • follow a vocation
  • pursue meaningful work
  • secure a livelihood

Grammar: Conditionals

Second conditional
If I had more time, I would change careers. — if + past simple, would + base verb
could / might instead
If she left her job, she might find something better. — might/could = less certain result

Discussion questions

  1. Would you rather have a high salary or work you find deeply meaningful?
  2. Which is better: one career for life or five very different careers?
  3. A vocation or a well-paid job — which would you choose?

What Does 'Career' Even Mean?

Grammar: Conditionals

What's in this lesson:

Full lesson plan with reading, grammar, vocabulary, and discussion.

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