Trend Talk: What’s Popular & Why | Topic Lesson

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by

Katelyn
in , , , ,
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Topic Introduction: Trends

Fashion, TikTok, slang, lifestyle trends
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Trends

Quick Look: Trends move fast. Some feel fun and inspiring, and others feel annoying or overdone. In this topic, we’ll talk about trends you love, trends you hate, and why people follow them. It’s perfect for practicing opinions, natural reactions, and casual slang.

Recommended Level: B1–B2

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How to use this material

For Teachers

  • Start with a quick opinion warm-up (love / hate / unsure).
  • Pick 1–3 modules per lesson depending on time.
  • Encourage students to explain why a trend feels “cringe” or “overhyped.”
  • Use notes boxes to collect real examples from their life.
  • Screenshot key notes and share after class.

This topic can easily stretch across 2–4 lessons.

For Self-study

  • Start with the warm-up question and write 3–5 sentences.
  • Choose one trend and learn opinion phrases for it.
  • Guess first, then check tips/answers if included.
  • Write your own examples in the notes to remember the language.
  • Review your saved notes later for speaking practice.

Short sessions work best—one module at a time.

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Optional Video

Tip: Submit an interesting trend video!.

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Vocabulary ideas

Editable list. Add slang you hear during class.

  • trendy (popular right now)
  • cringe (embarrassing, awkward)
  • aesthetic (a specific style/vibe)
  • overhyped (too popular for no good reason)
  • low effort (not much thought/time put in)
  • viral (spreading fast online)
  • to copy / to hop on a trend
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Warm-up question

What trend is everywhere right now? Do you like it, hate it, or feel neutral? Why?

Useful phrases: “This trend is everywhere right now.” “This trend needs to stop.” “I’d try it.” “Never.”

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Word Training

Vocabulary Practice
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How to use this section

Goal: Build practical vocabulary by exploring examples, defining in your own words, and using the word in discussion.

  1. Select a word and read the Example sentence carefully.
  2. Explain the meaning in your own words, then reveal the Definition to compare.
  3. Answer the Discussion question using the new word naturally as you speak or write.
  4. Tip: Hover any hard word to preview, or click it to drop an editable definition box.
1
Trendy
Example: That bag is super trendy right now — I see it everywhere.
Definition
Popular or fashionable right now (but it might not last).
Discussion question
What’s a trend that feels everywhere right now? Do you like it or not? Why?
Notes / Answer
2
Cringe
Example: That dance trend is kind of cringe to me — it feels forced.
Definition
Embarrassing, awkward, or uncomfortable to watch.
Discussion question
What makes a trend feel forced or cringe? Give one example.
Notes / Answer
3
Aesthetic
Example: My room has a cozy aesthetic — warm lights, plants, and neutral colors.
Definition
A specific look or vibe (a style that matches a “theme”).
Discussion question
If you had to choose one aesthetic for your style or room, what would it be? Why?
Notes / Answer
4
Overhyped
Example: That new product is overhyped — it’s not as good as everyone says.
Definition
Made to seem amazing, but it doesn’t really deserve all the attention.
Discussion question
What trend do you think is overhyped? Explain.
Notes / Answer
5
Low effort
Example: Some posts feel low effort — same idea, same sound, no creativity.
Definition
Not much time, thought, or creativity was put into it.
Discussion question
Is “low effort” always bad? When can low effort be okay?
Notes / Answer
6
Viral
Example: That sound went viral overnight — everyone used it.
Definition
Spreading extremely fast online (lots of people share it or copy it).
Discussion question
Why do some trends go viral? Is it more about creativity, timing, or luck?
Notes / Answer
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What’s the Question?

Reverse Q&A
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How to use this section

Goal: Practice forming questions by working backwards from given answers.

  1. Read the Answer.
  2. Think of a Question that could produce this answer.
  3. There may be more than one correct question. If you get stuck, open the Tip bank. Check Possible Question(s) last.
  4. Hover a hard word to preview. Click it to drop an editable definition box.
Tip bank:
When (time) • Where (place) • Who (people) • Why (reason) • How many / How much (amount) • How often (frequency) • If / Would (conditions)
1
Q
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A
This trend is everywhere right now, so I keep seeing it on TikTok.
Tip
Spot the place + time signal: “on TikTok” (where) and “right now” (when).
Possible Question(s)
Where do you keep seeing this trend? / When do you usually see it?
2
Q
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A
I tried it once, but it felt cringe, so I stopped.
Tip
This answer explains a reason and a result. Use Why or “What happened when…?”
Possible Question(s)
Why did you stop doing that trend? / What did you think when you tried it?
3
Q
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A
No, I would never try that trend.
Tip
Yes/No answer → start with Would or Do. Example: “Would you ever…?”
Possible Question(s)
Would you ever try that trend?
4
Q
—
A
Because it feels overhyped to me.
Tip
Because… signals a reason → ask Why…?
Possible Question(s)
Why don’t you like that trend? / Why does it feel overhyped?
5
Q
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A
The aesthetic is cute, but the trend itself is low effort.
Tip
This answer compares two things. Use: “What do you think about…?” or “Do you like X or Y?”
Possible Question(s)
What do you think about the aesthetic of that trend? / Do you think the trend is low effort?
6
Q
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A
I started seeing it about two weeks ago, and now it’s in every video.
Tip
Numbers and time phrases suggest When or How long. Ask one at a time.
Possible Question(s)
When did you start seeing that trend? / How long have you been seeing it?
7
Q
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A
If I had more money, I would try the fashion trend just for fun.
Tip
Conditional (If I had… I would…) pairs with Would: “What would you do if…?”
Possible Question(s)
What would you do if you had more money?
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What do you think?

Agree / Disagree
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How to use this section

Goal: Develop debate skills by taking a stance, giving reasons, and supporting your ideas with evidence.

  1. Open a card and read the statement carefully.
  2. Decide your stance: Agree or Disagree.
  3. Give at least two reasons and support them with evidence, an example, story, or data.
  4. Optional: switch sides and argue the opposite view to practice flexible thinking.

Hard words: hover to preview the meaning, click to drop an editable definition box.

1
Some microtrends are fun, even if they’re low effort.
I (agree / disagree) with this statement because…

AGREE

I agree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
It’s creative; it brings people together; it’s harmless fun; it lowers pressure to be “perfect.”

DISAGREE

I disagree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
It can be repetitive; it encourages copy-paste behavior; it burns out quickly; it can feel overhyped.
2
Calling everything overhyped has become cringe.
I (agree / disagree) with this statement because…

AGREE

I agree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
It kills excitement; it’s negative by default; it stops people from enjoying things.

DISAGREE

I disagree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
It can be honest feedback; it helps people avoid wasting money/time; it’s just an opinion word.
3
Fashion trends are mostly about aesthetic, not comfort.
I (agree / disagree) with this statement because…

AGREE

I agree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
Many looks prioritize image; comfort is often “secondary”; social media rewards style.

DISAGREE

I disagree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
Athleisure proves comfort can trend; people adapt trends to fit daily life.
4
Using slang like “slay” and “cringe” makes conversation more fun.
I (agree / disagree) with this statement because…

AGREE

I agree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
It’s expressive; it feels casual; it signals shared culture; it’s playful.

DISAGREE

I disagree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
It can be confusing; it may sound immature; it changes quickly; context matters (work/school).
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Make your own statement now!
Type your statement above, then argue below.

AGREE

I agree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
Brainstorm lenses: money, time, identity, social pressure, confidence, online vs real life.

DISAGREE

I disagree because
Notes / Answer
Support Notes
Counterpoints: exceptions, opportunity cost, safety, inclusion, long-term effects, who gets left out.
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Discussion Questions

Trends, opinions, and deeper answers
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How to use this section

Goal: Practice thoughtful speaking and writing by answering questions in depth, making connections, and using new vocabulary.

  1. Choose a question — they become more challenging as you go down.
  2. (Optional) Tap Follow-ups to extend the conversation.
  3. Go beyond short answers: include personal stories, memories, or opinions. You can also connect ideas to music, videos, celebrities, school, or current events.
  4. Try to use the new vocabulary from earlier in the lesson naturally.
  5. Click Answer to write your response or add notes.
1
What’s one trend you genuinely like right now—and what makes it fun?
Easy
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
2
What’s a trend you dislike or find overrated? Why?
Easy
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
3
Why do you think some trends go viral so fast?
Moderate
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
4
Do trends influence your choices (clothes, slang, music)? How?
Moderate
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
5
Is “low effort” always bad? When can it be totally fine?
Moderate
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
6
What makes a trend feel “cringe” to you? Is it the idea, the people, or the delivery?
Moderate
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
7
Do you think trends are more about self-expression or fitting in? Explain.
Challenging
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
8
Should influencers be responsible for the trends they promote? Where’s the line?
Challenging
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
9
When a trend gets “too popular,” does it lose its value? Why or why not?
Challenging
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
10
If trends disappeared tomorrow, what would change about teen life (or society)?
Hard
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
11
It’s your turn — What’s your question?
Student
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
12
It’s your turn — What’s your question?
Student
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
13
It’s your turn — What’s your question?
Student
Follow-ups (tap to select)
Clear selections
Answer
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Have you heard about…

Trends | culture | social media
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How to use this section

Goal: Explore a new topic, build vocabulary, and speak in depth.

  1. Open a topic and read the summary and quick facts.
  2. Open Vocabulary to learn key words with examples.
  3. Answer the Discussion questions in full sentences.
  4. Use My notes and the small note boxes to save your ideas.
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Microtrends

fast cycles

Microtrends are short-lived trends that spread fast and disappear quickly. People copy an outfit, phrase, or aesthetic for a short time, then move on. They can be fun and creative, but they can also feel exhausting or wasteful.

  • They often spread through short videos and “outfit of the day” posts.
  • Some microtrends look “new,” but they are old ideas recycled.
  • They can affect shopping habits and self-image.
My notes

Vocabulary

microtrend
Meaning: a very short trend.
Example: “That hairstyle was a microtrend for two weeks.”
hype
Meaning: a lot of excitement and attention.
Example: “The hype was huge, but it didn’t last.”
overhyped
Meaning: more praised than it deserves.
Example: “It’s cute, but it’s overhyped.”
burn out
Meaning: feel exhausted from too much effort or stress.
Example: “I burn out when I try to keep up with every trend.”
Discussion

1) What’s a microtrend you’ve seen recently?

Optional: Where did you see it, and who started it?

My note

2) Are microtrends mostly fun or mostly stressful?

Optional: Give one example from your life.

My note

3) What should we do before buying something for a trend?

Optional: A “rule” you would recommend.

My note
2

“Blowing up” online

viral fame

Sometimes a video blows up and becomes popular very fast. People share it, remix it, and talk about it everywhere. Viral moments can bring opportunities, but they can also bring pressure and unwanted attention.

  • Algorithms push content that keeps people watching and commenting.
  • Viral fame can change someone’s daily life overnight.
  • Some creators feel anxiety from being watched and judged.
My notes

Vocabulary

blow up
Meaning: become very popular suddenly.
Example: “Her dance clip blew up.”
algorithm
Meaning: a system that decides what to show you.
Example: “The algorithm kept showing me the same trend.”
spotlight
Meaning: public attention.
Example: “Not everyone enjoys being in the spotlight.”
backlash
Meaning: negative reactions from people online.
Example: “She got backlash for that comment.”
Discussion

1) Why do you think some posts blow up?

Optional: Is it timing, humor, skills, or luck?

My note

2) Would you want to go viral? Why or why not?

Optional: What would be the best and worst part?

My note

3) What should creators do if they get backlash?

Optional: Apologize, explain, ignore, delete?

My note
3

“Beige flags”

dating talk

A beige flag is something that is not a red flag (bad) or a green flag (good). It’s more like a funny, slightly strange habit that makes you pause and think, “Interesting…” People share beige flags as a light, playful way to talk about relationships.

  • It’s usually meant to be humorous, not serious.
  • People share stories to feel connected and understood.
  • Sometimes it can turn into judging or stereotyping.
My notes

Vocabulary

beige flag
Meaning: a neutral “hmm” habit (not good or bad).
Example: “His beige flag is that he eats cereal for dinner.”
red flag
Meaning: a warning sign.
Example: “Lying is a red flag.”
green flag
Meaning: a good sign.
Example: “She communicates clearly, that’s a green flag.”
judge
Meaning: form an opinion quickly, often unfairly.
Example: “Don’t judge someone from one small habit.”
Discussion

1) What’s an example of a beige flag (real or imaginary)?

Optional: Make it funny but not mean.

My note

2) Why do people enjoy “flag” trends?

Optional: Is it about advice, humor, or bonding?

My note

3) When can this trend become harmful?

Optional: Give one example and a better alternative.

My note
4

Soft launch vs hard launch

sharing online

A soft launch is when someone shares something quietly or indirectly, like a small hint. A hard launch is when they announce it clearly. People use these words for relationships, projects, new jobs, or big life updates.

  • Soft launches can protect privacy and reduce pressure.
  • Hard launches can feel exciting and confident.
  • Sharing choices depend on culture, safety, and personality.
My notes

Vocabulary

soft launch
Meaning: hint at news quietly, without a full announcement.
Example: “She soft-launched her new job with a desk photo.”
hard launch
Meaning: announce news clearly and openly.
Example: “They hard-launched their relationship with a couple photo.”
hint
Meaning: a small clue.
Example: “That caption was a hint.”
privacy
Meaning: keeping personal life protected.
Example: “She values privacy online.”
Discussion

1) Why might someone choose a soft launch?

Optional: List two reasons.

My note

2) When is a hard launch a better idea?

Optional: Give one example (job, relationship, project).

My note

3) What’s your personal style: soft launch, hard launch, or no launch?

Optional: Explain how you decide what to share.

My note
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True or False — Trends

Old trends, new trends, and internet myths.
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How to use

Goal: Build reading and critical thinking skills by checking facts, exploring key vocabulary, and verifying information with reliable sources.

  1. Read the statement carefully. Hover over any bold underlined word to preview its meaning, or click to drop the full definition below.
  2. Decide whether the statement is True or False.
  3. Click Answer to check if you were correct and see an explanation.
  4. Follow the Source link to explore the topic in more depth.
1
Trends today usually last much longer than trends from the past.
Answer
False. Many modern trends are microtrends and fade within weeks.
2
Trends used to spread mainly through TV, magazines, and celebrities.
Answer
True. Before social media, trends moved slower and were controlled by mass media.
3
If something goes viral, it will stay popular for a long time.
Answer
False. Viral content often peaks quickly and then disappears.
4
“Beige flags” describe harmless but slightly odd behaviors.
Answer
True. They are not serious red flags, just mildly strange habits.
5
Fast fashion trends often encourage overbuying.
Answer
True. Short trend cycles push constant shopping.
6
People sometimes delete old posts when a trend becomes embarrassing.
Answer
True. This is sometimes called trend regret.
7
Soft-launching a relationship means sharing everything publicly.
Answer
False. A soft launch shows hints without full details (for privacy or to test reactions).
8
Older generations never follow trends.
Answer
False. Every generation follows trends, just in different places and styles.
9
Algorithms influence which trends people see online.
Answer
True. Algorithms push content based on engagement (likes, comments, watch time).
10
Some trends spread because people react strongly, not because they like them.
Answer
True. Controversy and strong reactions can increase sharing and visibility.
11
Write your own True/False statement about trends.
Answer
Write your explanation, then decide if it is true or false. Add a source link if you can.
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Let’s Practice! — Trends

Culture, social media, microtrends, and “old vs new”
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How to use this section

Goal: Practice idioms, vocabulary, and key facts through a variety of interactive activities.

  • There are 7 different activities to choose from, all connected to this topic.
  • Click a word or phrase, then click a blank to place it. Click a filled blank to clear it.
  • Press Check to see which blanks are correct ✅ or incorrect ❌, or use Show answers to reveal all.
  • Text boxes begin small and auto-expand as you type your answers.
  • Challenge: try more than one activity and compare how your answers improve over time.
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Matching
Microtrend Viral Algorithm Aesthetic Throwback
A trend that becomes popular fast and disappears quickly →
Shared widely online in a short time →
A system that decides what content you see on an app →
A “look” or style (colors, vibe, design) →
Something from the past that becomes popular again →
2
Fill in the blanks
Microtrend Viral Algorithm Aesthetic Throwback Influencer Backlash
That “clean girl” style became a people copied on TikTok.
A short-lived shoe style can be a .
If a clip spreads to millions overnight, it goes .
Your feed changes because the learns what you watch.
A 2000s song coming back is a .
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Words in Action
Algorithm Microtrend Throwback Viral Aesthetic
The app’s recommendation system decides what shows up next →
It was popular for two weeks and then disappeared →
The “retro” style is a return to the past →
Her video was shared everywhere in one day →
The photos have a soft color look and vibe →
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Say it another way
This trend went viral in one weekend.
The algorithm changed what I see on my feed.
That was just a microtrend.
Her photos have a cozy aesthetic.
90s fashion is a throwback trend.
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Writing practice
Prompt 1: Describe a trend you tried (and how it went)
Tip
Include: where you saw it, why you tried it, and how you felt after.
Prompt 2: Are trends mostly fun or mostly stressful?
Tip
Use PEEL: Point → Example → Explain → Link back to your opinion.
Prompt 3: Should influencers disclose ads more clearly?
Tip
Balance both sides: trust, money, and responsibility. Mention a counterpoint.
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Vocabulary practice

Tip: tap a word in the bank, then tap a blank — or just type your own answer.

Show / hide word bank
microtrend viral algorithm influencer aesthetic throwback backlash hype trend cycle engagement sponsored content
Many online trends start as a and spread quickly if the content goes . What you see next is often decided by an that measures like likes, comments, and watch time. Sometimes an creates around a new style or . But trend cycles can be fast, and people may feel or “trend regret” when something becomes embarrassing. A trend is different: it brings back an older style that suddenly feels new again.
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Word / Phrase Chart
Word/PhraseMeaningExample

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