The History of Santa Claus: St. Nicholas and the Origin of Santa (B1/B2)

• Before we watch the video, let's look at these 5 major events from Santa's history. Put them in the order you think they happened, from oldest to newest.
  
  
  Coca-Cola popularizes the modern Santa look.
  St. Nicholas is born in Turkey.
  Thomas Nast draws Santa at the North Pole in red/ white.
  Clement C. Moore writes "A Visit from St. Nicholas".
  Martin Luther introduces Kris Kringle.

• Now, let's watch the video. As you listen, pay close attention to dates and eras to check if your timeline is correct.

• Let's check together! Take a look at the screen. Read the timeline aloud starting from 270 AD—how close were your predictions?
  
  1 (270 AD): St. Nicholas is born in Turkey

  2 (16th Century): Martin Luther introduces Kris Kringle

  3 (1823): Clement C. Moore writes "A Visit from St. Nicholas"

  4 (1863): Thomas Nast draws Santa at the North Pole in red/ white

  5 (1931): Coca-Cola popularizes the modern Santa look

🤔Which date or change surprised you the most?

Let's practise!

Read the statements about St. Nicholas and decide whether they are facts or myths.🤔

🧑‍🎄The Real Story of Santa: 2 Myths Busted!

Now you’re going to be a Christmas Historian!

• Choose 2 Myths: Pick two common myths about Santa Claus from today’s lesson (e.g., his original suit color, where he was born, or who created the North Pole tradition).

• Write the Truth: For each myth, write:

  • The Myth: What people incorrectly believe ("Myth: Santa has always lived at the North Pole.").

  • The Fact: The real historical origin in 2 short sentences ("Fact: The North Pole story was created in 1863 by cartoonist Thomas Nast.").

• Add Visuals: Add 1–2 emojis or icons to illustrate each section.

• Self-Check: Use past simple verbs (was born, was created, changed) and contrasting words (however, actually, in reality).
  

  📝Useful Phrases (Language Helper):

  • Introducing a myth:

    • "Many people believe that... but actually..."

    • "It is a common myth that..."

  • Presenting the fact:

    • "In reality, St. Nicholas was..."

    • "The truth is, this tradition started when..."

      ✏️ Example:

      Many people think Santa always lived at the North Pole, but actually, Thomas Nast created this idea in 1863.
      

The last task for today.
🤔Spin the wheel 3 times and answer the questions.