The Princess Diaries · Do I Have to Change Who I Am?

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Hibiscus Teach · Movies

The Princess Diaries

Do I Have to Change Who I Am?

Respond to unexpected information, clarify expectations and discuss which changes are reasonable.

B1+ English60-minute tutor lesson

Created by , British English teacher.

An unexpected connection

In this story, the selected scene focuses on an unexpected connection.

Watch for: Why is the news difficult for Mia to accept?

Original source

Clip A quiz · 6 questions

Answer about this clip only. Choose one answer for each question.

1. What position did Mia's father have?
2. What new identity does Clarisse reveal to Mia?
3. How is Mia's first surprised expression misunderstood?
4. Why does Clarisse say Mia is an heir?
5. What concern does Mia express about leadership?
6. How does Mia initially respond to moving to Genovia?

Useful English

This is a lot to take in; could you explain what it means for me?

Before I decide, I need to understand the responsibilities.

Keep talking · 3 questions

Say your answer before opening the support. Take turns with a partner, or speak aloud on your own.

  1. Why might exciting news also be worrying?

    Support and one possible answer

    It may bring…

    It may bring responsibilities or changes that the person did not choose.

  2. What questions should Mia ask next?

    Support and one possible answer

    I would ask…

    I would ask what she must do immediately and which decisions can wait.

  3. Respond to an unexpected leadership offer.

    Support and one possible answer

    Thank you. Before…

    Thank you. Before I decide, could you explain the time commitment and the support available?

Learning unfamiliar customs

In this story, the selected scene focuses on learning unfamiliar customs.

Watch for: How does Clarisse explain the purpose of the training?

Original source

Clip B quiz · 6 questions

Answer about this clip only. Choose one answer for each question.

1. What object is being used in the dining lesson?
2. How does Mia describe the restriction humorously?
3. What purpose does Clarisse give for the scarf?
4. What should Mia eventually manage without it?
5. Which country is mentioned as a trading partner?
6. What activity do they move on to?

Useful English

Could you explain why we do it this way?

I am willing to learn, but I would like to try it step by step.

Keep talking · 3 questions

Say your answer before opening the support. Take turns with a partner, or speak aloud on your own.

  1. When does explaining a rule make it easier to learn?

    Support and one possible answer

    When the learner…

    When the learner can see what the rule is for instead of only being told to obey it.

  2. Name one custom a visitor might need help understanding.

    Support and one possible answer

    A visitor may need…

    A visitor may need to know how formal a greeting should be at a particular event.

  3. Ask a respectful question about an unfamiliar practice.

    Support and one possible answer

    Is this always…?

    Is this always expected here, or is it only for formal occasions?

Mastery: use your English

Apply language from both clips to new situations.

Mastery · 6 questions

Use the English in new situations. Choose one answer for each question.

1. Acknowledge surprising news without deciding immediately.
2. Ask about expectations.
3. Request a demonstration.
4. Question a custom respectfully.
5. Explain a boundary.
6. Offer a balanced decision.

Put it all together — speaking

Use English from both clips. For the last conversation, take a role each. On your own, practise both roles.

  1. Which questions concern practical duties, and which concern identity?

    Support and one possible answer

    Duties include…; identity includes…

    Duties include the schedule and training. Identity includes how Mia sees herself and how much she wants her life to change.

  2. Can someone learn new customs without rejecting their background?

    Support and one possible answer

    They can… while still…

    They can adapt to a situation while still choosing which values and relationships matter to them.

  1. Can you discuss an unexpected opportunity without agreeing to everything?

    Role A

    You have been invited to represent a club at formal events. You are interested but have limited time and little experience.

    Role B

    Explain two realistic duties and available support. Respect one boundary and negotiate a trial rather than demanding an immediate long-term promise.

    Support

    Clarify duties, ask about support, set one limit and propose a trial.

    Check your conversation

    • Complete the communication goal on both role cards.
    • Use language from both clips naturally, with at least three target items overall.
    • Ask a relevant question and respond to your partner, rather than delivering two unrelated speeches.
    • Finish with a clear decision, next step or summary; repeat one part after feedback.
    One possible conversation, after your attempt

    A: I appreciate the offer, but I do not know what it involves. B: You would welcome guests and give a short introduction. We can practise together. A: Could I observe one event first? I cannot attend on Tuesdays. B: That works. Let us begin with a Saturday trial.

    I am interested in representing the club. Could I observe one event first? I need to keep Tuesday free for my course.

    Try again: After feedback, repeat the most difficult exchange. Improve one language point and one communication point; do not memorise the example.

Original teaching activities: Hibiscus Teach. Film and television clips belong to their respective owners.