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Academic English

“The Christmas Gift”

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Content Warning: This conversation deals with tragedy, car accidents, and death.

Level Topic Speakers Length
Difficult Christmas Story Man 03:07

Pre-Listening Exercise

What is the meaning of Christmas to those that celebrate this day? Use the internet to answer these questions, or discuss them with other students. What do you think is the meaning of the title, “The Christmas Gift,” in this story? What ideas come to your mind when you think of Christmas gifts?

Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!

These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, exploring ideas, and sharing opinions.

  • 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?

  • 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.

  • 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.

    1. Giving expensive gifts shows how much you care.
    2. People often feel pressure to buy the “perfect” gift for the holidays.
    3. Children should learn to appreciate fewer gifts at Christmas.
    4. A meaningful gift doesn’t have to cost any money.
    5. Advertising affects what people think they should give as Christmas presents.
    6. It’s okay to regift something you don’t need if it’s still useful.
    7. Gifts should always match the personality or interests of the person receiving them.
    8. Giving gifts at Christmas is becoming less personal and more commercial.
    9. Adults should be just as excited about gifts as children.
    10. Some families would be happier if they skipped gift-giving completely.

Listening Exercise

Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Post-Listening Exercise

  1. What was the Christmas “gift” Ray gave to others?
  2. What did the narrator mean when he said that Ray believed that “the best Christmas gifts came not from the gift received, but from those given, and that those acts of charity should remain anonymous”?
  3. Discuss the teachings of other religions or moral lessons when it comes to charity and kindness towards others.
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