Daily News Lesson Roundup: Halloween
Although not as big as Christmas a few months later, Halloween is a major celebration with an interesting history and plenty of unique stories related to it. This time, we're highlighting 10 Daily News lessons that are (mostly) all about the spookiest holiday of the year.
The History of Halloween
October 31, 2018 / Level 7: Advanced
Halloween in modern times means candy, costumes and parties. Not many people stop to think about its origins, however. Students may be surprised to learn of the similarities between now and the holiday's earliest years.
A Short History of Halloween in Japan
October 31, 2019 / Level 6: Intermediate
This one narrows it down a bit further to specifically the holiday's short history in Japan. Despite its newness, it has become extremely popular — some people might even say a bit too popular!
The Best Movies to Watch for Halloween
October 31, 2023 / Level 6: Intermediate
Some people really enjoy the thrill of watching a scary movie at night in a darkened room. For students who like a good fright, here is a list of recommended horror films. This article is a great choice for cinephiles.
American Halloween Goes to the Dogs
December 10, 2015 / Level 5: Intermediate
Over the years, Halloween went from being popular with children to being just as popular with adults, who also enjoy dressing up in funny or scary costumes. But it hasn't stopped there. Students with pets may find this article particularly interesting.
Halloween Idioms: Scary Expressions and Ghostly Phrases
October 30, 2019 / Level 6: Intermediate
Halloween is only one day of the year, but the expressions highlighted here can be heard in English conversations from January to December. Spooky but definitely useful!
Health Benefits of Pumpkins
December 4, 2017 / Level 5: Intermediate
Pumpkins are common sights in October, but some people may forget that they aren't just decorations — they're food! Healthy food, in fact. Read about and discuss the various ways they help the body.
US Companies Offer $1,300 to Watch 13 Scary Movies
September 24, 2021 / Level 6: Intermediate
For those students who don't enjoy scary movies, would they watch them if someone paid them to? Americans were offered that opportunity in 2021 when a company conducted a very unique experiment.
Like Scary Stories? You’ll Love These Horror Authors
October 29, 2021 / Level 6: Intermediate
Halloween frights don't have to come from movies only, of course. In fact, several classic horror films are based on novels by famous authors like Stephen King. He, along with two others, is introduced in this article.
Halloween Is Big with Kids and Business
December 8, 2014 / Level 5: Intermediate
When it comes to end-of-the-year holidays, Christmas is obviously the one most valuable to businesses. But although it is not a day associated with gift-giving, people still spend a significant amount of money celebrating Halloween.
More Energy, More Money: The Benefits of Sober October
This article is not specifically about Halloween, but instead about a practice that takes place around the same time of year. If your student enjoys drinking, have they ever tried a personal challenge like a "Sober October"?
Wrap-up
If your students need suggestions for what to study in this period before the Christmas season starts up, consider choosing one of these articles. With its growing popularity outside of just children, Halloween offers plenty to discuss and often inspires strong opinions either for or against it.
