“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 10: Sports and Competition
Story 04: The Popularity and Controversy of MMA
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Combat sport
- Striking
- Grappling
- Wrestling
- Skill
- Athletes
- Proponents
- Controversy
- Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs)
- Integrity
Read or Listen to the following passage:
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a combat sport that combines elements of striking, grappling, and wrestling. The sport has grown in popularity in recent years, with events like the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) drawing millions of viewers around the world. While MMA has many fans who appreciate the skill and athleticism of the fighters, the sport has also been the subject of controversy.
One of the main criticisms of MMA is its violent nature. Some people argue that the sport glorifies violence and that the fighters are at risk of serious injury or even death. However, proponents of MMA argue that the sport is no more dangerous than other contact sports like football or boxing, and that the fighters are well-trained and well-protected.
Another controversy surrounding MMA is the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). Despite strict drug testing protocols, some fighters have been caught using banned substances, leading to disqualifications and suspensions. This has led to questions about the integrity of the sport and whether it can truly be considered a fair and legitimate competition.
Despite these controversies, MMA continues to grow in popularity. The sport is known for its exciting and fast-paced fights, with fighters using a wide variety of techniques and strategies to try to win. The skill and athleticism of the fighters is also a major draw for fans, with many MMA fighters being considered some of the best athletes in the world.
Overall, the popularity and controversy of MMA highlight the complex nature of modern sports. While some people may find the violence and controversy surrounding MMA distasteful, others appreciate the skill and athleticism of the fighters and the excitement of the competition.
Comprehension Questions:
- What is MMA and what elements does it combine?
- What is one main criticism of MMA?
- How do proponents of MMA defend the sport against criticisms of its violent nature?
- What is the controversy surrounding the use of PEDs in MMA?
- What are some reasons why MMA continues to grow in popularity?
Conversations Starters:
- Do you enjoy watching combat sports like MMA and boxing?
- What are your thoughts on the controversy surrounding performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) in combat sports like MMA and UFC?
- How important is striking in MMA compared to grappling and wrestling?
- Have you ever practiced martial arts or combat sports? What was your experience like?
- Do you think that athletes in combat sports like MMA and UFC are some of the most skilled athletes in the world?
- What are the differences between prize fighting and street fighting, and why is one considered more acceptable than the other?
- Have you ever been in a physical fight?
- What is your opinion on the use of wrestling in MMA and UFC, and how does it compare to striking and grappling?
- What role do proponents of MMA and UFC play in promoting the sport, and how do they defend against criticism?
- What lessons can be learned from the discipline and skill required in martial arts and combat sports, and how can they be applied to everyday life?
