The Ugly Duckling: Reading and Vocabulary for ESL Learners

English level: High Beginner (Students should have some proficiency in English, understand simple past tense, and read full sentences comfortably.) 

Together, the class will practice eight vocabulary words before reading the "The Ugly Duckling" together from a colorful PowerPoint presentation. We will pause every few pages of reading for a check of comprehension. I give every student a chance to read, speak, and take part in the activities. There are cute and colorful illustrations to keep students' attention and imagine the story better. 

If your student can read this sample paragraph, he/she will be at a good level for this class: 
"The ugly duckling walked for a long time, through the forest and grass. He became very dirty. 
He tried to make friends with other ducks he saw, but they laughed at him too. They all said the same thing: “You are ugly!”

UPDATE: This lesson now includes a read-along story video for download. Students can use this to practice pronunciation and to recognize unfamiliar words.

"The Ugly Duckling" is a classic fairy tale with a lesson about finding the beauty in ourselves. I look forward to sharing it with my students!