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Conversation Advance · Module 3 · Unit 11

Minimalism vs. Consumerism

Pre C1 Advanced

Learning Objectives

In today s lesson, you will talk about minimalism versus consumerism and learn useful vocabulary that you can use in everyday life.

Discussion

Direction: Answer these questions.
  1. Do you find it difficult to declutter your living space?
  2. Are you often tempted by impulsive purchases when shopping?
  3. Do you think living with less can actually increase your happiness?

New Words & Expressions

Direction: Listen and repeat these words with your teacher.

  • Minimalism

    noun

    /ˈmɪnɪməlɪzəm/

    Meaning:A lifestyle of living with only essential items.

    We are embracing minimalism to save for our future home.

    Real Life Tip:

    A very popular movement in modern American urban life.

  • Consumerism

    noun

    /kənˈsuːmərɪzəm/

    Meaning:The protection or promotion of the interests of consumers.

    Modern society is often driven by excessive consumerism.

    Real Life Tip:

    Used to describe the culture of buying things to feel happy.

  • Clear out

    phrasal verb

    /klɪər aʊt/

    Meaning:To remove unwanted items from a space.

    We need to clear out the closet before we move.

    Real Life Tip:

    A necessary task when moving or organizing.

  • Keep up with

    idiom

    /kiːp ʌp wɪð/

    Meaning:To stay at the same level as something.

    It is hard to keep up with the latest fashion trends.

    Real Life Tip:

    Often used regarding social pressure to buy.

  • Splurge

    slang

    /splɜːrdʒ/

    Meaning:To spend more money than usual on something special.

    We decided to splurge on a high-quality coffee machine.

    Real Life Tip:

    Implies an occasional, indulgent purchase.

Conversation

Direction:

  • Listen carefully as your teacher reads the conversation aloud.
  • Role-play the conversation with your teacher
Kevin and Jennifer are clearing out their apartment before moving to a new place.
  • Kevin
    I can not believe how much stuff we have collected over the years.
  • Jennifer
    It is the result of consumerism. We buy things we do not really need.
  • Kevin
    You are right. Let us clear out everything that does not bring us joy.

Q&A

Direction: Answer the questions based on the conversation.
  1. Why are Kevin and Jennifer clearing out their apartment?
  2. What lifestyle change does Jennifer want to make?
  3. What do they decide to do with their savings instead of buying things?

Exercise

Direction: Choose the correct answer to complete each sentence, then read it aloud. Each question gives you 5 Points.

  1. What does minimalism prioritize?

  2. What does it mean to splurge?

  3. We need to ____ out the garage.

  4. It is hard to keep ____ with the Joneses.

  5. is / consumerism / driving / modern / society

  6. minimalism / embracing / are / we

Ask Your Teacher

Direction: Ask your teacher these questions.
  1. How can minimalism improve someone mental health?
  2. What are the biggest challenges to escaping consumerism?
  3. When is it okay to splurge versus when is it wasteful?

Your Time To Speak

Direction: Answer using the language you have learned in this lesson. Talk about yourself!
  1. Is it possible to be a minimalist in a city?
  2. How do I clear out a home filled with memories?
  3. What is the line between consumerism and necessary living?
  4. How do I stop feeling the pressure to keep up with trends?
  5. Why does splurging feel so good?
  6. Can a minimalist have a hobby that requires equipment?
  7. How do I explain my choice of minimalism to others?
  8. Is consumerism inherently evil?
  9. How often should one clear out their belongings?
  10. Can I be a minimalist while saving for a luxury item?
Jennifer
I agree. I want to transition to a more intentional minimalism.
  • Kevin
    It is so hard to keep up with the pressure to always buy new tech.
  • Jennifer
    Exactly. Let us save our money and maybe splurge on a nice vacation instead.
  • Kevin
    That sounds like a much better plan than buying more clutter.
  • Jennifer
    Agreed. Let us finish this box.