“Conversation Starter Lesson Series: Upper-Intermediate” is designed for intermediate-level ESL learners who want to improve their fluency and confidence in speaking English.
Each lesson includes an engaging reading material with audio, vocabulary and expressions, comprehension questions, and discussion questions to be used for one to one class, group class, or self-study for both online and offline classes.
Unit 9: Entertainment and Pop Culture
Story 04: The Rise of Esports Careers: Opportunities and Challenges
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Esports
- Tuning in
- Fierce
- Analyst
- Put in long hours
- Event management
- Job security
- Stigma
- Tournaments
- Sponsorships
Read or Listen to the following passage:
Esports, or competitive video gaming, has grown rapidly in popularity in recent years, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch their favorite games and players compete. With the growth of esports comes new career opportunities for those who are passionate about gaming and have the skills to compete at the highest level. However, pursuing a career in esports is not without its challenges.
One of the most common careers in esports is as a professional player. Esports players compete in tournaments and leagues for cash prizes and sponsorships. However, the competition is fierce, and becoming a professional player requires a high level of skill, dedication, and a willingness to put in long hours of practice.
Another career option in esports is as a coach or analyst. Coaches work with esports teams to develop strategies and improve players’ skills. Analysts study game data and statistics to identify trends and help teams make more informed decisions.
Esports also offers career opportunities in marketing and event management. As esports tournaments and events become larger and more popular, there is a growing need for professionals who can manage and promote these events.
While there are many career opportunities in esports, the industry also faces challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of job security. Esports careers can be unpredictable, with players and teams rising and falling in popularity and success.
Another challenge is the stigma associated with gaming. While the popularity of esports has helped to reduce this stigma, there are still some who view gaming as a waste of time or a non-legitimate career choice.
In conclusion, the rise of esports has created exciting career opportunities for those who are passionate about gaming and have the skills to compete at a high level. While pursuing a career in esports can be challenging, the rewards can be significant for those who are successful.
Comprehension Questions:
- What is esports?
- What are some common careers in esports?
- What skills are required to become a professional esports player?
- What are some challenges facing the esports industry?
- What are some career opportunities in marketing and event management in esports?
Conversations Starters:
- Do you enjoy playing video/PC games?
- What do you think about esports becoming a recognized sport in international competitions like the Olympics?
- Do you think professional esports players have job security compared to traditional sports players?
- How important is marketing in the success of esports events and tournaments?
- Do you think mobile games can have a place in the esports industry?
- What qualities do you think are necessary for someone to become a successful esports coach or analyst?
- Have you ever attended an esports event or tournament? What was your experience like?
- Do you think there is still a stigma attached to gaming as a career choice? Why or why not?
- What do you think are the differences between playing PC games and console games?
- How has the rise of esports impacted the video game industry as a whole?
