The Impossible Ranking

A2 B1

Speaking activity ENG HUB Pro

Individual lesson

The student receives a card with five options connected to an everyday topic.
The student ranks the options from 1–5 (1 = most important / best, 5 = least important / worst).

Ask the student to think briefly about their choices and prepare short explanations for the ranking.

Pair or Group Work

Place students in pairs or small groups.

Students compare their rankings and discuss their choices. They should explain their reasoning, defend their opinions, and challenge their partner’s ideas politely.

Encourage students to negotiate and agree on **ONE final ranking together**.

After 2–3 minutes, groups can switch cards or rotate to a new topic to repeat the discussion.

Sharing & Comparison

Invite a few pairs or groups to present their final ranking to the class.

Another pair or group can briefly act as a “challenge team” by asking questions or disagreeing with parts of the ranking.

Optionally, ask students to reformulate one of their arguments using stronger justification structures *(e.g. The main reason is…, I ranked it higher because…, It matters more than…).*

Encourage clear explanations, natural discussion, and active disagreement throughout the activity.

May, 25