Teacher’s Overview
Title: Why We Shake Hands
A Fun English Story
Teacher’s Overview:
Why do we shake hands when we meet someone? This interesting lesson explains the surprising origin of the handshake — it began in ancient Greece more than 2,500 years ago as a way to show trust and prove you weren’t hiding a weapon.
Students will learn about the history of this common gesture and discover how people greet each other differently around the world. The lively image full of different greetings is perfect for sparking discussion among teenagers and university students.
Level: Pre-Intermediate to Intermediate (A2–B1)
Time: 25–40 minutes
Skills: Reading, Vocabulary, Speaking & Discussion
Downloads:
- PDF 1: Reading Passage + Comprehension + Discussion Questions
- PDF 2: Fun Speaking & Role-Play Activities
