Erasmus+ Lesson Uses “Advice Columns” to Build Empathy and Language Skills in 10th Grade (LER)

Vaslui, Romania – April 29, 2026 – Students of class X A at the “Emil Racoviță” Theoretical High School in Vaslui took part in a distinctive English lesson that combined grammar learning with emotional intelligence development, guided by teacher Virginia-Hortensia Pracsiu. The activity was carried out within the Erasmus+ project “Emotional Intelligence Approach on Teaching Methods” (Project No. 2024–1‑ES01-KA220-SCH-000253249).

The lesson focused on fostering empathy through the study of “Advice Columns”, encouraging students to go beyond the surface of written texts and identify the underlying emotional conflicts of the authors. By exploring real-life dilemmas, students were challenged to interpret feelings, motivations, and perspectives.

At the same time, the activity reinforced key language concepts, including modal verbs and conditional structures. Students practiced offering advice in English in a respectful and empathetic manner, learning how language can be used not only for communication but also for support and understanding.

Working collaboratively, the classroom evolved into a supportive community where students discussed authentic adolescent challenges such as academic stress and social relationships. This approach created a meaningful connection between language learning and students’ personal experiences.