Reality Check Contrasts

How to Use This Activity

Individual Work
Students read the prompt on the slide and prepare a short “expectation vs reality” speech. They must use several items from the useful-phrases bank to create a balanced, nuanced point.

Pairs and Small Groups
Students take turns delivering their short speech. Partners listen and ask one follow-up that forces contrast (e.g., “Despite what?”, “What’s the real trade-off?”, “What would you add on closer inspection?”). The speaker replies with one extra sentence using another linker from the bank.

Class Sharing
Invite a few students to share their strongest response. Ask the class to improve it by swapping in a higher-level connector (e.g., replacing but with nevertheless / that said / for all that) or tightening the contrast (whereas / by contrast). This lets you quickly check accuracy, variety, and clarity.