EFL and ESL Materials and Topics – The Great Depression
Table of Contents
The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic crisis that took place in the decade before World War II. It began in about 1929, following the stock market crash in the United States, and lasted until the late 1930s or early 1940s. During this time, millions of people lost their jobs, businesses closed, and many families struggled to survive.
This topic is important for understanding history, economics, and the impact of global events on everyday life. Here, you can learn about the Great Depression through explanations, vocabulary, videos, and activities.
The Great Depression for Students
Here is some important information ESL students may want to know about the Great Depression:
1. The Great Depression – Summary for Students
The Great Depression was one of the darkest periods in modern history. It started in the U.S. but quickly spread to many countries. Banks failed, businesses shut down, and people could not afford basic needs. Governments introduced new programs to create jobs and help the poor. The lessons learned from this period have shaped economic policies to this day.
2. What Caused the Great Depression?
The Great Depression began after the 1929 stock market crash, which led to financial panic and the failure of many banks. People lost their savings, factories closed, and unemployment rose sharply. Problems in farming, falling prices, and a drop in world trade made the crisis worse.
3. 7 Causes of the Great Depression
- Stock Market Crash of 1929 – Triggered panic and financial collapse.
- Bank Failures – People lost their savings when banks closed.
- High Unemployment – Millions were without work.
- Overproduction – More goods were produced than people could buy.
- Falling Prices – Hurt both businesses and farmers.
- Reduced International Trade – Economic problems worldwide decreased trade.
- Unequal Distribution of Wealth – Many people were too poor to support the economy.
4. When Did the Great Depression End?
The Great Depression lasted about a decade. In the United States, the economy began to recover in the late 1930s. It officially ended around 1939–1941, when World War II created millions of jobs and boosted production.
5. Lessons from the Great Depression
- Save money for difficult times.
- Governments need programs to help people during crises.
- Economic problems in one country can spread globally.
- Avoid risky investments.
- Protect the most vulnerable members of society.
ESL Materials about The Great Depression
Here are some resources to help you learn more about this topic:
- The Great Depression – Detailed article and activities.
- Documentary – Watch a video about the Great Depression.
- Economic Recession – Understanding recessions.
- Banking Vocabulary – Key financial terms.
- Recession Vocabulary – Words and phrases for economic downturns.
- Public Debt – Learn about government borrowing.
- Idioms about Money and Business – Expressions used in economics.
- Quotes about Money – Famous sayings about finance.
- 7 Money Idioms and Expressions – Enrich your vocabulary inventory with these money idioms and expressions.
- English Idioms for Business Communication – Talk business like a native speaker.
Activities for ESL Students
- Research: Study photographs, letters, or stories from the Depression era.
- Analyze: See how it affected farmers, workers, and families.
- Discuss: Talk about its causes, effects, and relevance today.
- Connect: Explore how it changed government roles and social programs.
- Vocabulary Work: Learn economic terms and idioms about money.
- Role-Play: Act out an interview between a reporter and someone from the 1930s.
- Timeline Creation: Make a timeline of major Depression events.
- Compare: Contrast the Great Depression with other economic crises.
- Writing Task: Write a diary entry as if you lived during the Depression.