In Poland we don’t need much of an excuse to celebrate doughnuts — but Tłusty Czwartek (and honestly, any random Thursday) gives us the perfect reason to bring a little sugar and a lot of conversation into our lessons. This activity is simple, flexible, and surprisingly great for speaking practice, self-reflection, and a bit of laughter.
Here’s how it works.
First, show students the illustration with the doughnuts without the personality descriptions. Ask them one simple question:
“Which doughnut are you?”
Students choose only by flavour — no overthinking allowed! Lemon? Chocolate? Matcha? Jelly? Encourage them to trust their first instinct. You can ask guiding questions like:
Why did you pick this one?
Does it match your mood today?
Is it your real thing or just your snack craving?
Let them discuss in pairs or small groups. This stage is great for low-pressure speaking because everyone has something to say — food is a universal language!
The Plot Twist
After students explain their choices, reveal the personality version of the doughnuts. Suddenly, the salted caramel becomes “warm and reliable,” the lemon filled turns “bright and witty,” and the jelly doughnut is “sweet and emotional.”
Now the real discussion begins:
Do you agree with your doughnut personality?
Is it accurate or totally wrong?
Would your friends choose the same doughnut for you?
Students can compare answers, challenge each other (nicely!), and even switch doughnuts if they feel misrepresented. Expect lots of laughter — especially when someone discovers they picked the “quiet and mysterious powdered doughnut” by accident.
Why This Activity
✔ Easy speaking starter — no heavy prep
✔ Encourages descriptive language and opinions
✔ Works with teens or adults
✔ Perfect for Donut Day celebrations in Poland 🇵🇱
It also lowers the pressure of “serious” personality discussions. Talking through a pastry feels safe, playful, and surprisingly honest.
Teacher Tips
✨ Let students invent their own doughnut personalities at the end.
✨ Turn it into a mini writing task: “My doughnut diary entry.”
✨ Vote for the most accurate doughnut in the class.
✨ Bring real pączki if possible — motivation levels increase by at least 200%.
At the end of the lesson, you’ll probably notice something magical: students who were quiet at the start suddenly have strong opinions about cinnamon sugar versus Boston cream. And honestly, that’s the sweet spot of language learning — meaningful conversation wrapped in a little bit of fun.
Happy Donut Day and smacznego! 🍩
And the doughnut charts are here: Doughnut
