Making Online Friends - Randall's ESL Cyber Listening Lab

Level	Topic	Speakers	Length
Easy	Online Friendships	Man – Woman	01:25

Pre-Listening Exercise

NOTE: “Making online friends” focuses on the type of friends you are making (friends who are online), while “making friends online” describes the method or location of making friends (online). Both are common and understandable.

Do you think online friends can become “real” friends? Why or why not?
What are some risks of making friends online?
What are the advantages of meeting people on social media?

Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!

These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.

In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.
In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?
For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and check your progress.

1. Online friends are just as real as face-to-face friends.
2. Meeting people on social media is too risky.
3. The internet is the best place to make friends who share your interests.
4. You can trust people you meet online.
5. Young people spend too much time building online friendships.
6. It’s easier to talk to people online than in person.
7. Online friends can help you learn about other cultures.
8. It is okay to meet online friends in person if you feel comfortable.
9. You should never give any personal information to online friends.
10. Friendships are stronger when they are built offline.

Idioms

“crack a book” = to open books to study (usually a negative meaning)
“Brandon hardly ever cracked a book in high school, but he still was able to graduate.”

“cut class” = to skip school
“Why do you always cut class? You won’t pass the class if you do.“

“break the ice” = start a conversation in a friendly way
“Ryan commented on Alex’s photo, and that really broke the ice.”

“hit it off” = get along well quickly
“Alex and Ryan hit it off because they both love photography.”

Listening Exercise

Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Post-Listening Exercise

Do you think online friendships can be as strong as in-person friendships? Why or why not?
How can you stay safe while talking with new people on social media?
Have you ever learned something new from an online friend?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having online friends?

Online Investigation

Research online friendships in two or three different cultures:

How do people in that country view online friendships?
Are there common apps or websites people use to meet new friends?
Do people often meet online friends in person?
What advice do experts in that country give about online safety?

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See Listening Script

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