Honoring Sacrifice: Teaching Remembrance Day in ESL Classes

Remembrance Day, observed on November 11th, offers ESL teachers a poignant opportunity to engage students in a lesson that explores history, empathy, and the importance of honoring those who served while enhancing language skills. This commemoration invites an exploration of remembrance, sacrifice, and the significance of peace.

Understanding Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day, commemorates the end of World War I and honors the sacrifice of military personnel who have died in war.

Language Skills and Activities

Vocabulary Enrichment:

Introduce Remembrance Day-related vocabulary such as sacrifice, veterans, poppy, peace, commemoration, and specific terms related to wartime. Use visuals, discussions, or readings to reinforce vocabulary.

Reading and Comprehension:

Select articles, stories, or historical texts about Remembrance Day, wartime experiences, or the significance of honoring veterans. Conduct reading sessions followed by discussions or comprehension tasks.

Writing Tasks:

Encourage students to write essays, letters, or poems expressing gratitude to veterans or reflecting on the importance of peace. They can also share stories of wartime heroes. This exercise nurtures language skills and empathy.

Historical Insights

History of Remembrance Day:

Explore the history and significance of Remembrance Day, discussing its origins, traditions, and the symbolism of the red poppy. Highlight the impact of wars on society.

Stories of Sacrifice:

Share stories or profiles of individuals who made sacrifices during wars. Discuss their bravery, values, and the impact of their actions on history.

Interactive Activities

Poppy-Making Craft:

Engage students in creating paper poppies, a symbol of Remembrance Day. Discuss the symbolism of the poppy and its significance in honoring veterans.
Veteran Interviews or Profiles:

Encourage students to interview veterans or create profiles of family members who served in the military. This activity promotes understanding and appreciation of their experiences.

Reflective Discussions

Values of Peace and Unity:

Initiate discussions on the importance of peace and unity. Encourage students to reflect on the consequences of war and the significance of working towards peace.

Lessons from History:

Discuss the lessons learned from historical conflicts. Encourage students to consider how these lessons can guide decisions to promote peace and unity.



Teaching about Remembrance Day in ESL classes offers a solemn exploration of history, sacrifice, and the pursuit of peace. By integrating language exercises, historical insights, interactive activities, and reflective discussions, educators can create a meaningful lesson that not only enhances language skills but also fosters empathy and a deeper understanding of the significance of honoring veterans.

As we observe Remembrance Day, let us inspire students to honor the sacrifices of veterans, value peace, and strive for a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and understanding.