B1 • Lesson 33
Vocabulary and reading to prepare for your lesson
Click each word to see its meaning and an example.
To give a reason or explanation that supports a claim or decision.
"How can you justify spending that much money on the project?"
Facts or information that prove or support something.
"The study provides strong evidence that the approach is effective."
Related to the subject being discussed; appropriate and important.
"That example is relevant because it shows exactly what I mean."
To provide evidence or reasons that make something stronger.
"Your example supports my argument perfectly."
A detailed examination of a real situation used as an example.
"Let me use a case study to show how this principle works in practice."
To show or prove something clearly.
"This example demonstrates why the strategy is important."
Used to introduce a specific example.
"Many companies struggle with this problem. For example, a technology firm once lost clients because of poor communication."
Used to connect an example to the claim it supports.
"This demonstrates that early planning prevents serious problems later."
Used to explain that the example makes something clearer.
"To illustrate my point, consider the case of the successful startup."
Used to show that an example provides proof for your claim.
"This evidence supports my claim that we need more investment in training."
Used to explain why an example is important to your argument.
"This is relevant because it shows a real situation where the problem occurs."
Used to introduce supporting evidence or examples.
"Let me back this up with recent research showing the same results."
One of the most powerful speaking techniques is using relevant examples to support your claims. An example makes an abstract idea concrete and helps listeners understand your point more clearly. However, just giving an example isn't enough—you need to explain why it supports your argument. This is what we mean by justifying your examples.
The first step is choosing examples that are truly relevant to your claim. A good example directly demonstrates the principle you're discussing. For instance, if you say "Regular exercise improves mental health," a relevant example might be about a specific person who started exercising and noticed improved mood and sleep. This example supports your claim with concrete evidence.
After introducing an example, always explain the connection between the example and your claim. Don't assume your listeners will see the connection themselves. Use phrases like "This demonstrates that..." or "This shows why..." to make the link clear. For example: "She started exercising daily and felt much happier. This demonstrates that physical activity really does improve mental health."
Strong justification also involves explaining why the example is relevant. You might say "This is relevant because it shows a real situation rather than just a theory." Listeners appreciate knowing why you chose a particular example. It shows you're thinking carefully about your argument.
The combination of relevant examples and clear justification makes your speaking more persuasive and memorable. Your audience will understand not just what you believe, but why you believe it.
~310 words • B1 Level
Think about these questions before your lesson. You don't need to write answers—just consider your thoughts.
For each question above, write maximum 3 keywords — no sentences. Then practise speaking your answer out loud from just the keywords.
Q1: "Can you think of a recent conversation where someone used an example to explain something to you?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Now say your answer out loud. Speak for about 30 seconds from just your keywords.
Q2: "What kinds of examples do you find most convincing—real stories, case studies, or statistics?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Speak for 30 seconds. Let your brain build the sentences from the keywords.
Q3: "What makes an example relevant or irrelevant to an argument?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Say your answer out loud — don't just think it! Your keywords are enough.
Remember: keywords only. Your brain does the rest. Mistakes are good — they mean you're practising speaking, not reading.
Preparation time: ~15 minutes