LESSON PLAN

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Lesson plan

Level B2

Exploring Morality and Power in April's TV Series

Lesson overview

April brings a diverse lineup of television series, including "Your Friends and Neighbors," "The Testaments," and "Euphoria," exploring themes of morality, power, and personal struggles.

Reading text

READING TEXT

As April begins, a new wave of television shows invites viewers to explore a variety of stories that promise to entertain, make us think, and sometimes challenge our views on society. This month’s lineup includes the return of familiar characters and the introduction of new ones who face complicated situations. These shows reflect current issues, personal challenges, and the changing nature of human relationships. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most interesting series set to premiere, each offering its own unique themes and flavors.

First on the list is "Your Friends and Neighbors," which is back for its second season on Apple TV+. This series stars Jon Hamm as Andrew Cooper, a burglar whose adventures are driven by both excitement and financial need. In this season, Andrew finds himself facing moral dilemmas and legal issues, especially with the arrival of a new neighbor, Owen Ashe, played by James Marsden. Owen is a wealthy and questionable character who presents Andrew with a choice that could lead to his arrest. The supporting cast, including Amanda Peet and Olivia Munn, adds depth to the story, creating a complex view of relationships that are both forgiving and filled with tension. This series will premiere on April 3 and promises to explore the darker sides of human behavior with a mix of humor and drama.

Next up is "The Testaments," a sequel to the highly praised "The Handmaid's Tale," which will premiere on Hulu on April 8. This series is based on a novel by Margaret Atwood and brings back Aunt Lydia, played by Ann Dowd. In this season, Aunt Lydia is writing a memoir that reveals her past involvement in the oppressive regime of Gilead. The story focuses on Agnes, a young woman being prepared to become a commander’s wife, and her classmate Daisy, who is determined to fight against Gilead from the inside. This dual storyline not only builds on the original series’ themes of power and resistance but also encourages viewers to think about the consequences of complicity and rebellion in a male-dominated society.

On April 9, Netflix will release "Big Mistakes," a crime comedy that marks Dan Levy’s return to television after his success with "Schitt's Creek." In this series, Levy plays Nicky, a pastor whose life spirals out of control when his sister, Morgan, impulsively steals a necklace. This theft leads to blackmail from a shady jewelry store manager, throwing the siblings into the world of organized crime. Levy’s character humorously navigates this chaotic situation, and the show promises to explore the ridiculous lengths people will go to when faced with desperate circumstances.

Peacock will introduce "The Miniature Wife" on April 9, a series that takes a light-hearted look at the idea of shrinking people—a concept that has fascinated audiences for years. Matthew Macfadyen stars as Les, an inventor who accidentally shrinks his successful wife, played by Elizabeth Banks. This situation leads to a funny exploration of their relationship dynamics. The story not only entertains but also serves as a metaphor for the power struggles often found in marriages, making it a thought-provoking watch.

Nostalgia kicks in with "Malcolm in the Middle: Life's Still Unfair," set to premiere on April 10. This revival brings back the original cast, including Frankie Muniz and Bryan Cranston, as they deal with the challenges of family life years after the original series ended. The show taps into the memories of viewers who grew up with Malcolm and his quirky family, offering both humor and a touching reflection on the passage of time and family bonds.

April 12 marks the return of "Euphoria," a series that has captivated audiences with its honest portrayal of teenage life and the challenges that come with it. After a long break, the show resumes with a five-year time jump, placing its characters in their twenties. Rue, played by Zendaya, finds herself in a difficult situation in Mexico, while her friends face their own life choices and relationships. This season promises to explore the complexities of youth, addiction, and the search for identity in a world that often feels overwhelming.

Another interesting addition to the lineup is "The Audacity," which premieres on April 12 on AMC. This absurdist comedy-drama critiques the tech industry through the story of Duncan Park, a CEO whose unethical decisions lead to chaos. Created by a writer from "Succession," the series offers a satirical view of the moral emptiness often associated with Silicon Valley billionaires, inviting viewers to think about the ethical implications of unchecked ambition and greed.

On April 15, "Margo's Got Money Troubles" will debut on Apple TV+, featuring Elle Fanning in a story that combines personal struggles with humor. Margo, a young woman facing the difficulties of single motherhood, finds an unusual solution to her financial problems through OnlyFans. This narrative not only highlights the complexities of modern motherhood but also raises questions about society's views on work and morality.

As the month continues, Netflix will release "Beef" on April 16, an anthology series that looks at the consequences of a road rage incident. With a star-studded cast including Oscar Isaac and Carey Mulligan, this season promises to explore the nuances of interpersonal conflict and the hidden resentments that often lie beneath the surface of everyday life.

Finally, "Half Man," created by Richard Gadd, premieres on April 23 on HBO. This series examines the complexities of male friendships through the story of two childhood friends whose bond has weakened over the years. Gadd’s exploration of toxic masculinity and the development of male identity is sure to resonate with viewers, prompting reflection on the societal expectations placed on men.

As we look through this rich collection of television shows, it is clear that April will be a month filled with stories that not only entertain but also encourage thought and discussion. Each series, in its unique way, invites viewers to engage with important social issues, personal dilemmas, and the complexities of human relationships, making it an exciting time for television fans. So, whether you prefer comedy, drama, or a touch of nostalgia, there is something for everyone to enjoy this month.

Discussion prompts

DISCUSSION PROMPTS

  • 1. Which upcoming series are you most excited to watch and why?
  • 2. How do you think television can influence societal views?
  • 3. What themes in the shows resonate with your own experiences?
  • 4. Do you believe that comedies can effectively address serious issues? Why or why not?
  • 5. How do you feel about revivals of old shows? Do they capture the same magic?
  • 6. What role do you think nostalgia plays in our enjoyment of television?

Key vocabulary

Match each numbered word with the correct lettered definition.

Words

  • 1. narrative
  • 2. dilemma
  • 3. complicity
  • 4. absurdity
  • 5. nostalgia
  • 6. satirical
  • 7. whimsical
  • 8. interpersonal
  • 9. exploration
  • 10. contemporary
  • 11. identity
  • 12. provoke

Definitions

  • a. The quality or state of being ridiculous or wildly unreasonable.
  • b. The state of being involved with others in an illegal activity or wrongdoing.
  • c. To stimulate or incite someone to do or feel something.
  • d. A sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past.
  • e. Using humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock.
  • f. The fact of being who or what a person or thing is.
  • g. A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made.
  • h. The action of traveling in or through an unfamiliar area to learn about it.
  • i. Playfully quaint or fanciful, especially in an appealing and amusing way.
  • j. A spoken or written account of connected events; a story.
  • k. Living or occurring at the same time; belonging to the present.
  • l. Relating to relationships or communication between people.

MULTIPLE CHOICE

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

Question 1

What is the main theme of the article?

  • a) A) The impact of technology on society
  • b) B) Upcoming television series in April
  • c) C) The history of television
  • d) D) The importance of family
Question 2

Which series features Jon Hamm as a burglar?

  • a) A) The Testaments
  • b) B) Your Friends and Neighbors
  • c) C) Big Mistakes
  • d) D) Euphoria
Question 3

What is the release date for 'The Testaments'?

  • a) A) April 3
  • b) B) April 8
  • c) C) April 9
  • d) D) April 12
Question 4

Which series is a sequel to 'The Handmaid's Tale'?

  • a) A) Euphoria
  • b) B) The Miniature Wife
  • c) C) The Testaments
  • d) D) Malcolm in the Middle
Question 5

What genre is 'Big Mistakes'?

  • a) A) Drama
  • b) B) Crime comedy
  • c) C) Documentary
  • d) D) Reality show

TRUE / FALSE

TRUE / FALSE QUESTIONS

Question 1

The series 'Euphoria' has a time jump of five years.

  • True
  • False
Question 2

The character of Aunt Lydia is portrayed by Ann Dowd.

  • True
  • False
Question 3

The series 'Malcolm in the Middle' is a new show.

  • True
  • False
Question 4

The show 'Margo's Got Money Troubles' features Elle Fanning.

  • True
  • False
Question 5

The article mentions that all series are comedies.

  • True
  • False

SHORT ANSWER

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

Question 1

What is the main character's name in 'Your Friends and Neighbors'?

Question 2

What does Aunt Lydia write in 'The Testaments'?

Question 3

What unusual solution does Margo find for her financial troubles?

Question 4

What theme does 'Half Man' explore?

Question 5

Which series critiques the tech industry?

GRAMMAR EXERCISES

GRAMMAR

Selected Grammar Point: Present Perfect vs. Past Simple

Brief Explanation: The Present Perfect tense is used to describe actions that occurred at an unspecified time in the past and have relevance to the present. The Past Simple tense is used for actions that occurred at a specific time in the past.

Exercise Questions:

  1. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb in parentheses (Present Perfect or Past Simple): a. Jon Hamm ___ (star) in several movies before he ___ (return) to television. b. The series ___ (be) very popular since it ___ (premiere) last year.

  2. Rewrite the sentences using the correct tense (Present Perfect or Past Simple): a. Andrew Cooper (face) many challenges in his life. b. The new neighbor (arrive) last week and already (create) tension.

  3. Error Correction: Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences: a. Owen Ashe has presented Andrew with moral dilemmas since he arrived. b. The show was reflecting current issues that are important to society.

  4. Choose the correct option (Present Perfect or Past Simple): a. This month’s lineup (includes / has included) the return of familiar characters. b. The show (has challenged / challenged) viewers to think critically about society.

Answer key

KEY VOCABULARY

  • 1. narrative → j
  • 2. dilemma → g
  • 3. complicity → b
  • 4. absurdity → a
  • 5. nostalgia → d
  • 6. satirical → e
  • 7. whimsical → i
  • 8. interpersonal → l
  • 9. exploration → h
  • 10. contemporary → k
  • 11. identity → f
  • 12. provoke → c

MULTIPLE CHOICE

  • 1. B) Upcoming television series in April
  • 2. B) Your Friends and Neighbors
  • 3. B) April 8
  • 4. C) The Testaments
  • 5. B) Crime comedy

TRUE / FALSE

  • 1. True
  • 2. True
  • 3. False
  • 4. True
  • 5. False

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

  • 1. Andrew Cooper
  • 2. A memoir
  • 3. OnlyFans
  • 4. Male relationships and toxic masculinity
  • 5. The Audacity

GRAMMAR EXERCISES

Answer Key:

  1. a. Jon Hamm has starred in several movies before he returned to television. b. The series has been very popular since it premiered last year.

  2. a. Andrew Cooper has faced many challenges in his life. b. The new neighbor arrived last week and already has created tension.

  3. a. Owen Ashe has presented Andrew with moral dilemmas since he arrived. (Correction: "has presented" is correct; "arrived" is correct.) b. The show has reflected current issues that are important to society. (Correction: "was reflecting" should be "has reflected".)

  4. a. This month’s lineup has included the return of familiar characters. b. The show has challenged viewers to think critically about society.

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