Level 4Work

The Anatomy of Ambition

Grammar: Reported Speech

A Level 4 English lesson exploring work.

workreported speech

What's in this lesson

A Level 4 (upper intermediate) ESL lesson on work, practising reported speech. The worksheet has a reading, target vocabulary, a grammar reference with practice and discussion questions.

From the reading: The Anatomy of Ambition

In a 2021 survey of 5,000 working adults across twelve countries, 67 percent said they had, at some point, felt a sudden and overwhelming desire to be more than they currently were. Researchers at the University of Michigan called it the ambition spike — a moment when aspiration shifts from vague to urgent. What causes it, and what separates the people who pursue it from those who set it aside?

Vocabulary

  • clear aspiration
  • competitive environment
  • major breakthrough
  • overwhelming desire

Grammar: Reported Speech

Said that — backshift
She said she wanted a better role. — present → past in reported speech
Told me that
He told me he had set his sights on management. — pronoun I → he; will → would

Discussion questions

  1. Tell me about a time you really wanted a specific job or role.
  2. When did you first feel competitive about your career?
  3. Have you ever set your sights on something and surprised yourself?

The Anatomy of Ambition

Grammar: Reported Speech

What's in this lesson:

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

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