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Critical Thinking

Prediction Round Activity - Curiosity Builder for ESL Lessons

4-8 minAnyWorks on any device
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Inside a LessonCaptain lesson

One big question, investigated: take a stance, explore the source, learn the words, argue it out, play a review game, and land with the Verdict.

One lesson, stage by stage

  1. Flight Question
  2. Briefing
    Language Toolkit
  3. Turbulence
    The Big Discussion
  4. Review Game
  5. The Verdict

Students commit to predictions before seeing the answer, which makes the reveal more memorable

The activity builds useful language for guessing, probability, evidence, and changing your mind

Teachers create a purpose for reading, listening, or watching because students want to check their predictions

How it works

  1. 1

    LessonCaptain generates three prediction prompts related to the lesson topic or source

  2. 2

    Students choose or write predictions from their own device before the reveal

  3. 3

    The teacher shows the class distribution and invites students to explain their reasoning

  4. 4

    After the source, reading, or discussion, the class returns to the predictions and checks what changed

Frequently asked questions

What language does Prediction Round practise?
Students practise prediction phrases, probability language, giving reasons, and revising an opinion after new information. It is useful before almost any source-based lesson.
Does the prediction have to be correct?
No. The value is in committing to a guess and explaining the reasoning. Wrong predictions often create better discussion because students can explain what evidence changed their mind.
Can I use this with a video lesson?
Yes. Prediction Round is a natural opener before a video because students watch with a purpose: to confirm, reject, or adjust their own prediction.
Does it work with beginner students?
Yes. Beginners can choose from short options, while stronger students can write their own predictions and justify them with more complex language.
How do students lock in their predictions?
No. Students answer from a browser link and do not need to install anything or sign in.

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