Speaking calendar/Black Cat Appreciation Day
August 17th · Superstition & Logic

Black Cat Appreciation Day

A day to celebrate the most misunderstood animals in history. In some cultures, black cats are a sign of good luck; in others, they are viewed as bad omens. Today, we debate the psychology of superstitions, the power of cultural myths, and why humans still believe in luck and omens in a world dominated by science and logic.

SPEAKING LESSONB1 / B2Discussion · Vocabulary · Activities
01 / LET’S TALK

Speaking Discussion

  1. Are you superstitious? Do you have any specific rituals you perform for good luck before a big event?
  2. In the UK, a black cat crossing your path is considered good luck, but in the USA, it is bad luck. How can the same animal mean two opposite things?
  3. Why does the human brain constantly look for patterns and signs in random events?
  4. Do you think superstitions are harmless fun, or can they be dangerous for society?
  5. How has modern technology and the internet helped to either destroy or spread new superstitions?
  6. If you found a black cat on your doorstep today, would you keep it, or would you feel slightly nervous? Be honest!
02 / PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Activity 1: The Myth-Buster Pitch

The Task: You are a Scientific Investigator. You need to choose one common superstition (e.g., walking under a ladder or breaking a mirror) and explain logically why it is a myth.

Convince your audience to stop believing it.

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "I think society is becoming more/less superstitious because..."
  • "A lucky charm that I believe in is..."
  • "In my opinion, the best way to make your own luck is..."