Lesson & Activities - Valentine’s Day: A Special Day About Love
- Learn English with NETOL
- 23 hours ago
- 16 min read
Updated: 22 hours ago
✦ This lesson includes these sections:
☞ PART 1 - When Is Valentine’s Day Celebrated?
☞ PART 2 - How Did Valentine’s Day Begin?
☞ PART 3 - The Story Of St. Valentine
☞ LISTENING - The History Of Valentine's Day
☞ PART 4 - How Do Schools Celebrate Valentine’s Day?
☞ PART 5 -Popular Valentine's Day Activities
☞ ACTIVITY 1 - Valentine's Day Narration Activity
☞ POLL - Valentine's Day Activity That You Like The Most
☞ PART 6 - Making A Reservation At A Restaurant
☞ DIALOGUES - Making Reservations
☞ ACTIVITY 2 - Dialogues Comprehension Questions
☞ PART 7 - Top Valentine’s Day Gifts
☞ POLL - Your Favourite Valentine's Day Gift
☞ ACTIVITY 3 - Guess The Valentine's Day Gift
☞ PART 8 - Valentine's Day Fact - Invention Of The Telephone
☞ PART 9 -Valentine's Day Tip - Buying Discounted Treats
☞ LISTENING - Valentine's Day Fact & Tip
☞ PART 10 - Concluding Thoughts On Valentine's Day
☞ QUIZ - Test Your Knowledge
✦ Click on each section from above to see it ↑
✦ Click on each title box from below to get back here ↓
Valentine’s Day
A Special Day About
Love
Speaking Activity
Conversation Questions
Instructions:
Listen to and read the conversation questions.
Practice your speaking by answering each question out loud.
See some possible answers to the conversation questions by clicking the side arrows next to each question.
Conversation Questions
1. What is Valentine’s Day about?
Valentine's Day is about love, friendship, and kindness. People show they care about others.
2. What do people usually do on Valentine’s Day?
People spend time together, go out for dinner, exchange gifts, or write kind messages on Valentine's Day.
3. Why do you think people give gifts on Valentine’s Day?
I think that people give gifts to show love and appreciation to someone special.
4. What are some common gifts people give on Valentine’s Day?
People often give chocolates, flowers, cards, jewelry, or handwritten letters.
5. Going to a restaurant on Valentine's Day is a very popular activity. Why do you think it is important to make a restaurant reservation on Valentine’s Day?
It is important because restaurants are very busy on Valentine's Day.
Writing Activity
Pre-Reading Vocabulary
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Copy the words from below.
Look up the definitions of the words online.
Get to know the definitions of each word
Important Words - Valentine's Day
friendship
kindness
couples
take part
symbol
activities
exchange
Roman Empire
historians
romance
priest
presents
roses
reservation
Valentine’s Day
A Special Day About
Love
Instructions:
Read the following text.
Listen to the audio files.
Complete the activities within the lesson.
Note: Reading out loud when learning a new language is important because it helps you practice your pronunciation. When you speak the words, you can hear how they sound, and this will improve your speaking skills.
When Is Valentine’s Day Celebrated?
Valentine’s Day is celebrated every year on February 14th. People in many countries around the world celebrate this day. It is a special day when people show love, friendship, and kindness to others. Couples, families, and friends all take part in Valentine’s Day in different ways.
How Did Valentine’s Day Begin?
Valentine’s Day started a long time ago, during the time of the Roman Empire. Some historians believe it began as a Roman festival about love and spring. Over time, the holiday changed and became connected to love and romance. By the Middle Ages, people in Europe already believed that February 14th was a romantic day.
The Story Of St. Valentine
St. Valentine was a priest who lived in Rome many years ago. There are different stories about his life, but one well-known story says that he helped couples get married when marriage was not allowed. Because of this, he became a symbol of love and caring.
At that time, the Roman government limited marriage, especially for soldiers, and Christian weddings were not approved. Valentine believed marriage was important, so he helped couples get married in secret. Because of his actions, he was arrested and later killed on February 14 in 269 AD.
Many years later, the Church honoured him as a saint and named February 14 St. Valentine’s Day. Today, this day is connected to love and caring.
The History Of Valentine’s Day
Instructions:
Press the play buttons below.
Listen to the audio file.
Use the reading from above to follow along with the audio file.
The History Of Valentine's Day
How Do Schools Celebrate Valentine’s Day?
*Before reading about how schools celebrate Valentine's Day, look at each picture from above, and talk about what you see.
Many schools celebrate Valentine’s Day in a fun and friendly way. Children often make or buy small Valentine cards called valentines. They give these valentines to their classmates and sometimes to their teachers. Schools may also have dance parties, games, or art activities related to hearts, love, and friendship.
School Activity #1
Decorating the Classroom Bulletin Board
Each classroom usually has a bulletin board, which is a large board on the wall. Teachers and students use it to share information, classroom news, and decorations.
For Valentine’s Day, students decorate the bulletin board with hearts, drawings, and bright colours. The board may also have important messages, such as “Wear red or pink on Valentine’s Day.” These colours are connected to love and kindness, so children wear them to show friendship and school spirit. The bulletin board helps everyone know what is happening and makes the classroom look cheerful.
School Activity #2
Making Valentines for Classmates or Parents
Another popular activity is making Valentines in class. Valentines are small cards or notes that people give to others to show love, kindness, or appreciation.
Children often make Valentine's Day cards for their classmates to be friendly and caring. Some students also make Valentines for their parents to say “thank you” or “I love you.” This activity helps children be creative and practice sharing positive feelings.
School Activity #3
Attending A Valentine’s Day Dance at School
Some schools have a special Valentine’s Day celebration, such as dance parties. During this time, children may dance to music with their friends at school. To make it more exciting, students sometimes wear glow-in-the-dark bracelets, which light up while they dance. This activity is fun and helps children enjoy spending time together with their classmates and teachers in a fun and friendly way.
What Do People Do on Valentine’s Day?
On Valentine’s Day, people show love in many ways. Couples often spend time together, go out for dinner, or exchange gifts. Friends may give cards or small presents to each other. Some people also use this day to tell others how much they care about them by writing kind messages or notes.
Popular Valentine’s Day Activities
*Before reading about the most popular Valentine's Day activities, look at each picture from above, and talk about what you see.
Valentine's Day Activity #1
Going To The Movie Theatre
Description:
Going to the movie theatre is a popular and enjoyable activity. People can watch a film together in a comfortable place with a big screen and good sound. It helps couples relax and enjoy time together.
How to do this activity:
First, choose a movie you both like.
Then, buy tickets online or at the theatre.
Arrive early to get snacks and find your seats.
Watch the movie and talk about it afterward.
Valentine's Day Activity #2
Cooking A Meal At Home Together
Description:
Cooking a meal at home is a personal and cozy activity. It allows people to spend time together and enjoy homemade food. This activity often feels meaningful and relaxing.
How to do this activity:
First, decide what meal to cook together.
Go shopping for the ingredients if needed.
Then, prepare and cook the food as a team.
Finally, sit down and enjoy the meal together.
Valentine's Day Activity #3
Writing A Love Note
Description:
Writing love notes is a simple way to share feelings. These notes can make someone feel happy and loved. They are small but very meaningful.
How to do this activity:
Think about what you want to say.
Buy a card or write the message on paper.
Then, write a short message expressing your feelings.
Leave the note somewhere special, like in a bag or on a desk, or give it to the person directly.
Valentine's Day Activity #4
Travelling Somewhere For A Short Trip
Description:
Taking a short trip is a great way to create new memories. It helps people relax and enjoy time away from daily life. Even a short journey can feel exciting.
How to do this activity:
Choose a nearby place to visit, such as another town or a city.
Plan how to get there and where to stay.
Pack what you need and enjoy the trip together.
Take photos and explore the area.
Valentine's Day Activity #5
Giving Gifts To Each Other
Description:
Giving gifts is a way to show care and appreciation. A gift does not need to be expensive to be special. What matters is the thought behind it.
How to do this activity:
Think about what the other person likes.
Choose or make a gift that feels personal.
Next, wrap the gift that you would like to give.
Give it to them with a kind message or explanation.
Valentine's Day Activity #6
Going Out To A Dance Together
Description:
Dancing together is a fun and energetic activity. It allows people to move, laugh, and enjoy music. Dancing can help people feel closer.
How to do this activity:
Choose a place with music and space to dance.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Go to the place that you chose to go dancing at.
Dance together and enjoy the moment without worrying too much about skills.
Valentine's Day Activity #7
Going Out To A Café Or Dessert Shop
Description:
Going to a café or dessert shop is a relaxed way to spend time together. People can talk, laugh, and enjoy drinks or sweets in a calm environment.
How to do this activity:
Pick a café or dessert shop you both like.
Order your drinks or desserts.
Find a place to sit down together.
Talk, drink and enjoy your time together.
Valentine's Day Activity #8
Going Out To A Restaurant For A Romantic Dinner
Description:
A romantic dinner at a restaurant is a special and memorable activity. The atmosphere and food help create a romantic feeling. It is a good opportunity to focus on each other.
How to do this activity:
Choose a restaurant with a nice atmosphere.
Make a reservation if needed.
Dress nicely for the restaurant.
Order food you enjoy and spend the evening talking and enjoying the meal.
Reading & Writing Activity
Valentine's Day Narration Activities
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Make a list from 1 to 8.
Read the 8 narrated descriptions.
Use the chart - Popular Valentine's Day Activities, and decide which Valentine's Day narration matches which activity.
Practice your writing by writing the name of the activity next to each number on your paper.
Check your answers by clicking on the side arrows next to each situation.
Valentine's Day Narration Activity
Situation #1: "Hi, my name is Alex. On Valentine’s Day, I would rather stay somewhere comfortable than go out. I would enjoy choosing something together, preparing it step by step, and sharing it while talking and laughing." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Cooking a meal at home
Situation #2: "My name is Trish. This year, I would love to go out to a restaurant for a romantic dinner with my husband. I like dressing up and trying new food. For me, the best part is sitting at a nice table and talking without any distractions." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Going out to a restaurant for a romantic dinner
Situation #3: "Hello, I’m Fernando. On Valentine’s Day, I would want to surprise my wife I would focus on showing care rather than spending a lot of money. Seeing the other person smile would make me happy." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Giving gifts to each other
Situation #4: "My name is Jason. For Valentine’s Day, I would choose something quiet and meaningful. I would take time to think about my words and share my feelings in a very personal way." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Writing a love note
Situation #5: "Hi, I’m Rita. On Valentine’s Day, I would enjoy sitting side by side with my fiancée and focusing on the same thing. We would not talk much during that time, but we would share our thoughts afterward, usually with a snack such as popcorn." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Going to the movie theatre
Situation #6: " My name is Marco. For Valentine’s Day, I would like to go somewhere cozy, order a warm drink and eat something sweet. At this place, I will stay as long as my girlfriend and I want to stay while talking and enjoying our time together." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Going out to a café or dessert shop
Situation #7: " Hello, I’m Olivia. On Valentine’s Day, I would like to go to a place that is fun and full of energy. I would enjoy music, movement, and being close to the man that I love. It would feel exciting and special." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Going out dancing together
Situation #8: "My name is Priya. This Valentine’s Day, I would like to do something different. My husband and I do not want to stay in our home. We would rather pack a small suitcase and visit a new place. This will allow us to make new memories together." Which activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Travelling somewhere for a short trip
Take Our Poll
Valentine's Day Activity That You Like The Most
Which Valentine's Day activity do you like the most?
Going to the movie theatre
Cooking a meal at home
Writing a love note
Travelling somewhere for a short trip
Making A Reservation At A Restaurant For Valentine’s Day
Many couples like to go to a restaurant on Valentine’s Day, so it is important to make a reservation early. Restaurants are usually very busy on this day.
Making Reservations At Restaurants
Dialogues A & B
Dialogue A
Making A Reservation For 2 People
Tim: Hello, I would like to make a reservation for Valentine’s Day, please.
Restaurant Hostess: Of course. For which date and time?
Tim: February 14th at 7:00 p.m., please.
Restaurant Hostess: How many people will be in your party?
Tim: Just two people.
Restaurant Hostess: Perfect. May I have your name?
Tim: Yes, it’s Tim Smith.
Restaurant Hostess: Thank you, Mr. Smith. Your table is reserved.
Tim: Thank you very much.
Restaurant Hostess: You’re welcome. We look forward to seeing you.
Dialogue B
Making A Reservation For 4 People
Lilly: Good evening. I’m calling to book a table for Valentine’s Day.
Restaurant Hostess: Certainly. What day and time are you hoping for?
Lilly: I’m looking for February 14th at 6:45 p.m.
Restaurant Hostess: And how many guests will be joining you?
Lilly: There will be four of us: my husband, my sister, my brother-in-law, and me.
Restaurant Hostess: That sounds fine. Could I get the name for the reservation?
Lilly: Yes, it’s under Lilly Thraine.
Restaurant Hostess: Thank you, Mrs. Thraine. Your reservation has been confirmed.
Lilly: Great, I appreciate your help.
Restaurant Hostess: It’s my pleasure. We’ll see you on Valentine’s Day.
Listening, Reading & Writing Activity
Comprehension Questions
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Make a list from 1 to 10
Listen to Dialogue A and Dialogue B.
Read each comprehension question.
Practice your writing by answering the 10 comprehension questions on your paper.
Check your answers by clicking on the side arrows next to each comprehension.
Comprehension Questions
Making Reservations At Restaurants
Comprehension Questions # 1-5
Dialogue A
Question #1: Why does Tim call the restaurant?
ANSWER: Tim calls the restaurant to make a reservation for Valentine’s Day.
Question #2: What date and time does Tim want for the reservation?
ANSWER: Tim wants to reserve a table for February 14th at 7:00 p.m.
Question #3: How many people will be at Tim’s table?
ANSWER: There will be two people at Tim’s table.
Question #4: What name does Tim give to the reservation?
ANSWER: Tim gives the name Tim Smith for the reservation.
Question #5: How does the hostess respond after confirming the reservation?
ANSWER: The hostess thanks Tim and says that they look forward to seeing him.
Comprehension Questions # 6-10
Dialogue B
Question #6: Who is calling to make the reservation in Dialogue B?
ANSWER: Lilly is calling the restaurant to make a reservation for Valentine’s Day.
Question #7: What time does Lilly ask for on February 14th?
ANSWER: Lilly asks for a reservation at 6:45 p.m. on February 14th.
Question #8: How many people will be in Lilly’s group?
ANSWER: There will be four people in Lilly’s group.
Question #9: What is the name used for the reservation?
ANSWER: The reservation is under the name Lilly Thraine.
Question #10: How does Lilly respond after the hostess confirms the reservation?
ANSWER: Lilly says that she appreciates the hostess’s help.
What Gifts Do People Give On Valentine’s Day?
People give many different gifts on Valentine’s Day to show love and appreciation. Some gifts are romantic, while others are simple and sweet. The most important thing is the meaning behind the gift, not the price of the gift.
Top Valentine’s Day Gifts
*Before reading about the top Valentine's Day gifts, look at each picture from above, and talk about what you see.
Valentine's Day Gift #1
Chocolates Or Candy
Chocolates or candy are popular gifts because many people enjoy sweet treats. They are easy to buy and share, and they can make someone feel happy. Giving chocolate is a simple way to show love or appreciation.
Valentine's Day Gift #2
Flowers
Flowers are a classic gift that represents beauty and care. Roses are especially popular because they are often connected with love and romance. Giving flowers can make a person feel special and appreciated.
Valentine's Day Gift #3
Valentine’s Card
Valentine’s cards are used to send loving messages. People write kind words inside to express their feelings. These cards are meaningful because they show thought and emotion, not just the gift itself.
Valentine's Day Gift #4
Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals are soft toys that are often given as cute and comforting gifts. They can remind someone of the person who gave them the gift. Many people keep them as a sweet memory.
Valentine's Day Gift #5
Jewelry
Jewellery, such as rings, necklaces, or bracelets, is a special gift that can last a long time. It often symbolizes love, commitment, or friendship. Some people wear it every day to feel close to their loved ones.
Valentine's Day Gift #6
Perfume Or Cologne
Perfume or cologne is a personal gift that has a pleasant smell. It can remind someone of a special person whenever they use it. This gift shows that the giver knows the other person’s taste.
Valentine's Day Gift #7
A Handwritten Love Letter
A handwritten love letter is a very personal gift. It shows strong feelings through words written by hand. Many people find this gift very meaningful because it takes time and effort to create.
Valentine's Day Gift #8
A Gift Card
Gift cards are practical gifts that allow people to choose what they want. They are useful if you are not sure what to buy. Even though they are simple, they can still be thoughtful.
Valentine's Day Gift #9
A Photo Frame With A Picture
A photo frame with a picture is a sentimental gift. It captures a special memory shared with someone. This gift is often kept in a visible place, like a desk or shelf.
Valentine's Day Gift #10
A Personalized Item
Personalized items such as a mug, blanket or pillow are gifts that have a name, photo, or special message on them. They feel unique because they are made especially for one person. These gifts often show care and creativity.
Take Our Poll
Your Top Valentine's Day Gift
Which Valentine's Day gift do you like the most?
0%Chocolates
0%Perfume or Cologne
0%Flowers
0%Handwritten Letter
Reading & Writing Activity
Can You Guess The Valentine's Day Gift?
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Make a list from 1 to 10.
Read the 10 situations.
Use the chart - Top Valentine's Day Gifts, and decide which Valentine's Day description matches which gift.
Practice your writing by writing the name of the gift next to each number on your paper.
Check your answers by clicking on the side arrows next to each description.
Can You Guess The Valentine's Day Gifts?
Description #1: This gift is very popular on Valentine’s Day. People often give it to show love or appreciation. It can be red, pink, or white, and it usually smells nice. Some people put it in a vase with water. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Flowers
Description #2: This gift lets the other person choose what they want. It is usually made of plastic or paper and has a certain amount of money on it. It can be used in a store or online. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Gift Card
Description #3: This gift is soft and cuddly. It is often shaped like an animal, such as a bear. Many people like to hug it, especially when they miss someone. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Stuffed Animal
Description #4: This gift is made of paper and often has hearts, pictures, or kind messages on it. People usually write a short note inside. It is often given with another gift. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Valentine's Card
Description #5: This gift has a nice scent. People wear it on their skin or clothes. Some people use it every day, while others save it for special occasions. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Perfume
Description #6: This gift helps you remember a special moment. It usually holds a picture of two people together. It can be placed on a desk, shelf, or table at home. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: A photoframe With A Picture
Description #7: This gift is made especially for one person. It may have their name, a message, or a special design on it. It can be useful, warm, or decorative. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Personalized Mug
Description #8: This gift is written by hand and comes from the heart. It shares feelings, memories, and reasons why someone is loved. It is very personal and meaningful. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: A Handwritten Love Note
Description #9: This gift is sweet and often comes in a box. It can be dark, milk, or white. Many people enjoy sharing it with someone special. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Chocolates
Description #10: This gift is worn on the body, such as on the neck, wrist, or finger. It is often made of metal and sometimes has stones. People keep it for a long time. Which gift does this description portray?
ANSWER: Jewelry
Interesting Valentine's Day Fact:
The Invention Of The Telephone
The telephone is one of the most important inventions in modern life because it allows people to talk over long distances. On Valentine’s Day in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell filed the patent for the telephone, which makes this date easy to remember. It is interesting that an invention about communication is linked to a day about love and connection. The first telephone was simple, but it changed the world quickly. Over time, telephones became smaller and smarter, and today many people carry one everywhere. This invention helped bring people closer, even when they are far apart.
Valentine's Day Tip
Buying Treats At A Discounted Price
Do you like chocolate? If you enjoy chocolate and want to save money, the day after Valentine’s Day is a great time to buy it. On February 15, which is the day after Valentine’s Day, many stores sell their Valentine’s Day chocolates, candies, and even decorations at 50% off or more. Stores lower their prices because the holiday is over and they want to clear their shelves. So, if you like chocolate, remember to go shopping for it on the day after Valentine’s Day.
Valentine's Day Fact & Tip
Instructions:
Press the play buttons below.
Listen to the audio file.
Use the reading from above to follow along with the audio file.
Valentine's Day Fact & Tip
Concluding Thoughts On Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day is a special holiday that celebrates love, friendship, and kindness. It has a long history and many traditions, from giving gifts to spending time together. Whether people celebrate with family, friends, classmates, or a partner, Valentine’s Day is a chance to share love and make others feel special.
Test Your Knowledge By Taking Our Quiz
Instructions:
Read the 10 multiple-choice questions from below.
Answer each question.
Click the Submit button when you are done.
Click the View Score button to see how you did on the quiz.
Click below for a reading without the accompanying activities:
Written by: Nicole WT
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