Lesson: Talking About Numbers and Age

Activity I: Vocabulary

• How old – asking about someone’s age
• Years old – expressing age
• Age – how many years someone has lived
• Birthday – the date someone was born
• Teenager – a person between 13 and 19 years old
• Adult – a person 18 years old or older
• Senior – an older adult, usually 60 years and up
• Child – a young person, usually under 12

Activity II: Reading

Talking about numbers and age is important in daily life. We use numbers every day — when we talk about our age, count money, check the time, or share phone numbers. In this reading, you will learn how to use numbers and talk about age in English.

When we meet someone new, it’s common to ask, “How old are you?” This is a simple question about someone’s age. A common answer is, “I’m 30 years old,” or “I’m 25.” You can also talk about other people’s age by saying, “My sister is 18,” or “My grandfather is 70.”

Numbers are also useful when talking about birthdays. You might say, “My birthday is on July 10,” or “I was born in 1990.” In many cultures, birthdays are a time to celebrate. People often say, “Happy Birthday!” and give gifts or have a small party.

When talking about children, we often say, “My son is six years old,” or “My daughter is four.” You can also use numbers to talk about age groups. For example, teenagers are usually between 13 and 19 years old. Adults are 18 or older. People over 60 are often called seniors.

It’s also helpful to talk about age when you go to the doctor or apply for a job. For example, a doctor may ask, “What is your age?” or a form might ask, “Date of birth.”

Now that you have read this, try using numbers to talk about your age and your family members. Practice asking and answering simple age-related questions with a partner or in class.

Activity III: Role Play

Instructions: Practice the dialogue with a partner. Take turns being A and B. Speak clearly and use complete sentences.

Student A: Hi, what’s your name?

Student B: My name is Mark. What’s your name?

Student A: I’m Anna. Nice to meet you.

Student B: Nice to meet you too.

Student A: How old are you, Mark?

Student B: I’m 28 years old. How about you?

Student A: I’m 26. When is your birthday?

Student B: My birthday is in March. And yours?

Student A: Mine is in July. Do you have brothers or sisters?

Student B: Yes, I have one younger brother. He is 20.

Student A: That’s cool. I have two sisters.

Student B: How old are they?

Student A: One is 30 and the other is 24.

Student B: Do you live with your family?

Student A: No, I live on my own now.

Student B: Same here. Thanks for the chat!

Activity IV: Let's Practice

Have a chat with your teacher. Practice using numbers.

Follow the example in the role play.