Teaching Conversation

Learners may be confused by the many ways we can say something in English.  Practicing phrases for conversation can be helpful.  For example, you can use a map to practice asking and giving directions:
Where is (the) . . . ? 
How do you get to (the) . . . (from here)?
How do I get to (the) . . . ?
Can you tell me how to get to (the) . . . ?
Can you give me directions to (the) . . . ?
What's the best way to get to (the) . . . ?

(First,) go down this street (for ____ blocks).
(Then,) turn left/right at the traffic light.
(After that,) go straight on _____ Street until you get to the ______.
(When you get to the _____,) turn left/right again.
(Then,) stay on______Avenue for about _______  meters.
It's on your left, next to the __________. You can't miss it!
Sorry, I don't know.
Sorry, I don't live around here!

For more conversation phrases by topic, visit:  http://www.eslgold.com/speaking/phrases.html

Keep the Conversation Going

Choose topics that are of interest to newcomers.  Suggestions:

• meeting people
• getting acquainted
• getting to know neighbours
• getting directions or information
• taking phone messages
• arranging appointments
• dealing with emergencies
• talking on the phone/getting information
• looking for a job
• applying for a job
• looking after housing needs
• using public transportation
• dealing with merchants

Don’t ask “yes” or “no” questions.  Use WHAT, WHO, WHEN, WHERE, HOW, WHY
Ask questions, such as

• What did you do next?
• Why do you say that?
• How did that happen?
• When did that happen?
• What did you say?
• Where did that happen?
• How did you react?
• Did you like it?
• Do you recommend it?”

 Ideas for discussions:

• describe and interpret pictures
• describe objects (qualities, colours, shapes, uses)
• compare and contrast (objects, pictures, sports. experiences, films, etc.)
• describe and interpret recorded material (radio advertisements, newscasts, TV shows. etc.)
• solve dilemmas and survival problems
  e.g. Suppose you lost your wallet and money in a foreign country. What would you do? What five things would you take to a desert island and why?
• state and support opinions
• have the student describe things (what makes her happy, what she likes to do, the things she cannot live without, etc.)