Narrating
Here are some examples of telling about recent events in English.
1. Tell us about your trip. It was the most horrible five days of my life. First, we missed our flight; then we had to wait four hours for our luggage. The food on the plane was terrible, and there was no shower in the hotel.
2. What happened to your ankle? Well, my best friend and I went skiing over the weekend. I wanted to try something exciting, so I took the most difficult trail. I hit a bump and fell. Then I slid 500 meters before I could stop.
3. What did you do last summer? We went scuba diving in Malaysia. It was my first time, so I learned a lot. We took a boat out to a tiny island, found the perfect spot, and swam for hours among the fishes.
1. Tell us about your trip.
It was the most horrible five days of my life. First, we missed our flight; then we had to wait four hours for our luggage. The food on the plane was terrible, and there was no shower in the hotel.
2. What happened to your ankle?
Well, my best friend and I went skiing over the weekend. I wanted to try something exciting, so I took the most difficult trail. I hit a bump and fell. Then I slid 500 meters before I could stop.
3. What did you do last summer?
We went scuba diving in Malaysia. It was my first time, so I learned a lot. We took a boat out to a tiny island, found the perfect spot, and swam for hours among the fishes
Using Measure Words
Below are a few examples of measure words used in English.
Food
A bowl of rice
A dish of spaghetti
A pound of meat/cheese
A piece of cake/pie
A can of soup
A box of cereal
A bag of flour
A carton of ice cream
A jar of peanut butter
A loaf of bread
A slice of bread/pizza
A package of pasta
A dash of salt
A cube of ice
A pack of gum
A head of lettuce/cabbage
An ear of corn
A kernel of corn
A grain of wheat/salt
A stalk of celery
A spear of asparagus
A clove of garlic Liquid
A teaspoon of medicine
A tablespoon of vinegar
A glass of water
A cup of coffee
A pint of blood
A quart of milk
A half gallon of juice
A gallon of punch
A tank of gas
A jug of lemonade
A bottle of wine
A keg of beer
A shot of vodka
A drop of rain Personal items
A bar of soap
A tube of toothpaste
A container of shampoo
A stick of deodorant
A bottle of perfume/cologne
A roll of toilet paper
A ball of cotton
Sewing items
A spool of thread
A skein of yarn
A yard/meter of ribbon
A (square) foot/meter of fabric/cloth
Stationery
A piece of paper
A pad of paper
A roll of tape
A stick/piece of chalk
A bottle/tube of glue
A jar of paste
A pair of scissors
Notes:
1. Measure words can also be counted:
one slice of toast, two slices of toast, etc.
2. Some items can be either count or non-count, depending on composition or arrangement. For example,
A bar of chocolate (non-count [perceived as one solid item])
A box of chocolates (count [perceived as several individual items])
Telephone Talk
Conversation 1
Rrrrring.
R: Hello.
C: Hello. Is Steve there?
R: I'm sorry. He's not here right now.
C: What time will he be back?
R: Around five thirty.
C: This afternoon?
R: Yes. May I ask who's calling?
C: This is his friend, Greg.
R: Okay. I'll tell him you called.
C: Thanks.
Conversation 2
Rrrrrring.
R: Tyler residence.
C: Is this Naomi?
R: No, this is her sister, Nancy.
C: You sure sound like Naomi.
R: Oh. Can I take a message?
C: Sure. Please tell her that Andy called.
R: Okay. I'll give her the message.
C: Thanks.
R: Bye.
Calling On The Phone
Objective: To be able to answer the phone and make phone calls.
Dialog:
A: Hello.
B: Hello. May I speak to Sara?
A: I'm sorry, she's not home now.
B: Do you know when she'll be back?
A: No, I don't. Would you like to leave a message?
B: Yes, ask her to call Sylvia. My number is 377-6194.
A: O.K. I'll give her the message.
B: Thanks. Good-bye.
A. Bye.
Practice 1: Vocabulary Expansion
I'm sorry,she's not home right now.
she can't come to the phone now.
she's out right now.
Practice 2: Vocabulary Expansion
Sure. Just a minute.
I'll call her.
She'll be right here.
Practice 3
Would you like toleave a message?
have her call?
Practice 4
Ask her to callme. My number is 377-6194.
her mother. Her
her father. His
Practice 5: Dictation
Dictate the dialog.
Questions and Expressions with Time
Specific times
Question
When do you . . .
(present tense)
When did you...
(past tense)
When will you . . .
When are you going to
When do you plan to . . .
What time do you . . .
(past)
(future)
Extended Time
How long do you . . .
did you
will you
How long does it take you to . . .
Ongoing Action
How long have you . . .
Frequency
How often do you . . . Answer
I usually/always . . .
I (past tense)
I will . . .
I am going to
I plan to
(same as above)
I (usually)
I (past)
I (future)
It takes (me)
I have . . .
I (present tense) Words/phrases
in the evening
at 9:00
on Mondays
before dinner
after I eat lunch
when I get home
last night
before class
while I was eating
tomorrow
next Tuesday
in a few days
at 7:30
around 4:00
from 9:00 to 11:00
for three hours
ten minutes
six days
for five days
for two hours
since yesterday
often, usually
always, never
once in a while
Nouns
car
city
concert
(the) country
dancing
dishes
drive
housework
lake
neighbor
noise
party
picnic
trip
weather
Pronouns
anything
everyone
someone
Adjectives
all
boring
broke
cool
difficult
foggy
special
terrific
Verbs
baby-sit
complain
drive
enjoy
go shopping
have (someone) over
have (a[n] . . . time/
[a lot of] fun)
invite (someone) out
see
snow
take (a day off)
work on Adverbs
Time expressions
all day/month/year
all the time
as usual
last night/summer/weekend
the whole time
yesterday
Other
also
around
away
unfortunately
Prepositions
in (the country)
on (a trip/business/vacation)
over (the weekend)
Talking about past activities
Did you go out on Saturday?
What did you do . . . ?
How did you spend . . . ?
Where did you go . . . ?
What time did you go . . . ?
How long were you . . . ?
Giving opinions about past experiences
How did you like . . . ?/How was . . . ?
It was . . . ./I really enjoyed it.
What was the best thing about . . . ?
It's difficult to say.
Was the . . . OK?
Making and responding to suggestions
Why don't you (just) . . . ?
But then what would I do . . . ?
Like / Would like / Look like / Be like
Like / Would like / Look like / Be like
Would like vs. (Do) like
What kind of food do you like?
(Facts, personal preferences)
I like ice cream, bananas, soda pop.
I like Chinese food.
What kind of food would you like?
(If you could choose)
I would like Italian food.
What kind of friend(s) do you like?
I like someone who is easygoing.
I like a person who has talent.
I like people who are kind.
What kind of person would you like to marry?
I would like someone who has a lot of money.
I like a man/woman/person who is friendly.
Be like vs. Look like
What does John like?
(What are his personal preferences?)
He likes horror movies, basketball, chocolate ice cream...
What does John look like?
(Physical description)
He is tall, dark and handsome. He has black hair and wears glasses.
What is John like?
(Description of personality)
He is a nice guy. He is very kind and friendly.
1. I like fruit.
2. Helen likes sports.
3. Ms. Cramer doesn't like coffee.
4. Tony does not like action movies.
5. Does Terry like swimming?
6. Does Phil like soft drinks?
7. Does Sheila like salad?
8. Do you like Chinese food?
What kind?
What kind of sports?
Really? Does she like tea?
Oh. What kind does he like?
Yes, he does.
No, he doesn't.
No, she does not.
Yes, I do.
No, I don't.
A little.
Oranges and bananas.
Football and tennis.
Yes, she does.
(He likes) dram
Nouns
beard
centimeter (cm)
contact lenses
couch
couple
eye
fashion
foot/feet
glasses
guy
hair
hand
height
length
man
mustache
person
T-shirt
window
woman
Adjectives
bald
blond
curly
good-looking
handsome
khaki
serious-looking
short
straight
tall Verbs
ask for
change
miss
sit
stand
wear
Adverbs
ago
fairly
pretty
quite
Prepositions
in (a T-shirt and jeans/
his thirties)
on (the couch)
to (the left [of])
with (red hair)
Greeting someone
Good afternoon.
Good to see you.
Offering help
Can I help you?
Yes. I'm looking for . . . .
Asking about someone's appearance
What does she look like?
How old is she?
What color is her hair/are her eyes?
How tall is she?
Identifying people
Which one is Judy?
She's the one talking to Tom.
Who's Brian?
He's the man with the curly blond hair/in jeans/
behind the couch.
Expressing intention
I'll go and . . . .
Expressing regret
I'm afraid . . . .
Hesitating
Let's see.
Confirming information
Are you . . . ?
Yes, that's right.
Like / Would like / Look like / Be like
Would like vs. (Do) like
What kind of food do you like? (Facts, personal preferences)
I like ice cream, bananas, soda pop.
I like Chinese food.
What kind of food would you like? (If you could choose)
I would like Italian food.
What kind of friend(s) do you like?
I like someone who is easygoing.
I like a person who has talent.
I like people who are kind.
What kind of person would you like to marry?
I would like someone who has a lot of money.
I like a man/woman/person who is friendly.
Be like vs. Look like
What does John like? (What are his personal preferences?)
He likes horror movies, basketball, chocolate ice cream...
What does John look like? (Physical description)
He is tall, dark and handsome.
He has black hair and wears glasses.
What is John like? (Description of personality)
He is a nice guy. He is very kind and friendly.
Comparing Things
1. Which sofa should we buy?
2. I need a new watch.
3. Which runner are you cheering for?
4. I like the blue sweater.
5. How much sugar should I add?
This one is larger, but it is also more expensive.
The Classie is nicer than the Timebox.
That one is less affordable though.
Sammy. He's the fastest.
But Timmy is the most handsome.
I think the red one is better.
but the green one is the best.
Only a little.
That's too much
Comparatives Use -er to compare one syllable adjectives and adverbs as well as two-syllable adjectives ending in -y.
A horse is bigger than a dog.
He is shorter than his brother.
I'm busier today than I was yesterday.
I can run faster than you can.
My house is smaller.
It's the lesser of two evils.
Use more or less to compare most other adjectives and adverbs.
She is more helpful than her sister.
Mr. Gallant is more courageous than his cousin.
Craig is less practical than Kay.
Celine sings more beautifully than Barbara.
For better or worse
Use better and worse for comparisons with good or well.
That's a good movie, but this one is better.
Actually, I think that one is worse.
Use as . . . as to show similarity
He's as quick as his brother.
This chair is not as comfortable as that one.
Superlatives
Use the -est to indicate the superlative of one-syllable adjectives and adverbs as well as two-syllable adjectives ending in -y.
He's the fastest man alive.
That's the funniest clown I've ever seen.
Ben works the hardest of them all.
Use the best or the worst as the superlative of good or well.
This is the best deal I can offer you.
That was the best time I've ever had.
It was the worst dinner I've ever cooked.
I like this one (the) best.
Use the most + adjective/adverb to indicate the superlative of longer adjectives and adverbs.
He's the most wonderful man I've met.
That was the most difficult exam I've ever taken.
Chris sings the most beautifully of them all.
Nouns
Geography
canyon
cliff
continent
desert
"down under" (= Australia
and New Zealand)
farm
field
forest
plain
plateau
(coral) reef
river
sea
swamp
valley
volcano
waterfall
Measurements
degree (Fahrenheit/Celsius)
kilometer
meter
(square) mile
temperature Other
artist
attraction
butter
feather
town
Adjectives
deep
far
heavy
high
located
lucky
mountainous
Verbs
get up (to)
go down (to)
Prepositions
in (the mountains/the world)
of (the three)
on (Bali)
Talking about distance and measurement
How far is . . . from . . . ?
It's about . . . kilometers/miles.
How big is . . . ?
It's . . . square kilometers.
How high is . . . ?
It's . . . meters/feet high.
How long is (the) . . . ?
It's . . . kilometers long.
How hot is . . . in the summer?
It gets up to . . . degrees.
How cold is . . . in the winter?
It goes down to . . . degrees.
Making comparisons
Which country is larger, . . . or . . . ?
. . . is larger than . . . .
Which country is the largest: . . . , . . . , or . . . ?
. . . is the largest of the three.
What is the most beautiful . . . in the world?
I think . . . is the most beautiful.
the title of this page in the Subject line of your e-mail.
1. Which sofa should we buy?
2. I need a new watch.
3. Which runner are you cheering for?
4. I like the blue sweater.
5. How much sugar should I add?
This one is larger, but it is also more expensive.
The Classie is nicer than the Timebox.
That one is less affordable though.
Sammy. He's the fastest.
But Timmy is the most handsome.
I think the red one is better.
but the green one is the best.
Only a little.
That's too much!
Talking about Travel
Here are some sample phrases and sentences for talking about travel and transportation.
• How do you (usually) get to work/school?
• I usually take the subway.
• How long does it take (to get there)?
• It takes about ______ minutes/hours.
• What's the best way to get to _____?
• By train/bus.
• Do you take public transportation?
• I walk or ride my bike.
See also: Free-English-Study: Talking about Travel
Vocabulary: Transportation
Click Here for Audio
1. How do you get to work?
2. How long does it take?
3. How often do you ride the bus?
4. Do you ever walk to work?
5. Are you going anywhere this summer?
6. How are you going to get there?
7. Why don't you fly? I usually drive my car.
It takes half an hour.
Once in a while.
No, that would take forever.
Probably to Jacksonville.
By train.
Airplane tickets are too expensive.
Talking about Travel
1. How do you get to work?
2. How long does it take?
3. How often do you ride the bus?
4. Do you ever walk to work?
5. Are you going anywhere this summer?
6. How are you going to get there?
7. Why don't you fly? I usually drive my car.
It takes half an hour.
Once in a while.
No, that would take forever.
Probably to Jacksonville.
By train.
Airplane tickets are too expensive.
Asking for Directions
Here are some phrases and expressions for asking directions in English.
• Where is (the) . . . ? (This is also used in asking about location.)
• 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) . . . ?
1. Excuse me. Is there a grocery store around here?
2. Can you tell me how to get to Phoenix?
3. Where's Tanner's Leather Shop?
4. How do you get to the bank? Yeah. There's one right across the street.
Sorry. I don't live around here.
It's on the corner of Holly and Vine. Next to the library.
Go straight down this street for two blocks. Turn left when you get to Maple Street. Stay on Maple for half a block. It's on the left hand side.
Asking for Directions
1. Excuse me. Is there a grocery store around here?
2. Can you tell me how to get to Phoenix?
3. Where's Tanner's Leather Shop?
4. How do you get to the bank? Yeah. There's one right across the street.
Sorry. I don't live around here.
It's on the corner of Holly and Vine. Next to the library.
Go straight down this street for two blocks. Turn left when you get to Maple Street. Stay on Maple for half a block. It's on the left hand side.
Giving Directions
Here are some sample phrases and expressions to use in giving directions in English.
(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 _______ yards/meters.
It's on your left, next to the __________. You can't miss it!
1. Excuse me. Is there a grocery store around here?
2. Can you tell me how to get to Phoenix?
3. Where's Tanner's Leather Shop?
4. How do you get to the bank? Yeah. There's one right across the street.
Sorry. I don't live around here.
It's on the corner of Holly and Vine. Next to the library.
Go straight down this street for two blocks. Turn left when you get to Maple Street. Stay on Maple for half a block. It's on the left hand side.
See also: SpeakGiving Directions
1. Excuse me. Is there a grocery store around here?
2. Can you tell me how to get to Phoenix?
3. Where's Tanner's Leather Shop?
4. How do you get to the bank? Yeah. There's one right across the street.
Sorry. I don't live around here.
It's on the corner of Holly and Vine. Next to the library.
Go straight down this street for two blocks. Turn left when you get to Maple Street. Stay on Maple for half a block. It's on the left hand side.
Asking about Place/Location
Asking about Place or Location
Where is the bank?
It's on Main Street.
It's next to the post office.
It's between the bakery and the barber shop.
It's on the corner of Ninth Street and Pine (Street).
Where's Lagoon?
It's in Davis County, near Kaysville.
It's on I-15, between Farmington and Kaysville.
It's ten miles north of Salt Lake City.
Directions
How do you get to the sporting goods store?
(on foot)
First, go down State Street until you get to 4th South.
Then, turn left.
Then, go down 4th South for three blocks.
It's on the right side of the street next to Wendy's.
(by car)
Take State Street to 4th South.
At 4th South, turn left.
Stay on 4th South for about three blocks.
The sporting goods store will be on the right, next to Wendy's.
How do you get to (your house in) Lehi?
Take I-15 south about 20 miles.
After you cross the mountain, watch for the signs to Lehi.
Take the first Lehi exit.
When you get off the freeway, make a right turn at the stop sign.
Follow the road (15th East) for five blocks.
Make a left turn on Royal Drive.
Continue on Royal Drive until you see the big oak tree.
My house is on the left hand side.
It's a two-story, red brick house with a large front yard.
You can't miss it!
Nouns
Neighborhood/Community places
apartment (building)
aquarium
bank
barber shop
bookstore
cafe
coffee shop
dance club
drugstore
gas station
grocery store
hotel
laundromat
library
(science) museum
park
pay phone
post office
shopping center
stationery store
street
travel agency
Other
air
bedroom
book
card
crime
dining room
idea
kitchen
living room
ocean
paper (= stationery)
pollution
public transportation
suburbs
traffic
unemployment
water Adjectives
busy
clean
close
convenient
important
low
near
quiet
safe
Verbs
borrow
dry
happen
make (a reservation)
move in
trade (places)
wash
Adverbs
downtown
nearby
Prepositions
in (the shopping center/
your neighborhood)
on (Pine Street/Third Avenue)
Interjections
by the way
in fact
of course
Asking for and giving locations
Is there a/an . . . around here?
Yes, there is. There's one . . . .
No, there isn't, but there's one . . . .
Sorry, I don't know.
Are there any . . . near here?
Yes, there are. There are some . . . .
No, there aren't, but there are some . . . .
I'm not sure, but I think . . . .
Complaining
That's the trouble.
Asking about quantities
How much . . . is there?
There's a lot/a little/none.
There isn't much/any.
How many . . . are there?
There are a lot/a few/none.
There aren't many/any.
Giving opinions
I bet . . . .
Asking about Place/Location
Where is the bank?
It's on Main Street.
It's next to the post office.
It's between the bakery and the barber shop.
It's on the corner of Ninth Street and Pine (Street).
Where's Lagoon?
It's in Davis County, near Kaysville.
It's on I-15, between Farmington and Kaysville.
It's ten miles north of Salt Lake City.
Directions
How do you get to the sporting goods store?
(on foot)
First, go down State Street until you get to 4th South.
Then, turn left.
Then, go down 4th South for three blocks.
It's on the right side of the street next to Wendy's.
(by car)
Take State Street to 4th South.
At 4th South, turn left.
Stay on 4th South for about three blocks.
The sporting goods store will be on the right, next to Wendy's.
How do you get to (your house in) Lehi?
Take I-15 south about 20 miles.
After you cross the mountain, watch for the signs to Lehi.
Take the first Lehi exit.
When you get off the freeway, make a right turn at the stop sign.
Follow the road (15th East) for five blocks.
Make a left turn on Royal Drive.
Continue on Royal Drive until you see the big oak tree.
My house is on the left hand side.
It's a two-story, red brick house with a large front yard.
You can't miss it!
Asking about Place/Location
Where is the bank?
It's on Main Street.
It's next to the post office.
It's between the bakery and the barber shop.
It's on the corner of Ninth Street and Pine (Street).
Where's Lagoon?
It's in Davis County, near Kaysville.
It's on I-15, between Farmington and Kaysville.
It's ten miles north of Salt Lake City.
Directions
How do you get to the sporting goods store?
(on foot)
First, go down State Street until you get to 4th South.
Then, turn left.
Then, go down 4th South for three blocks.
It's on the right side of the street next to Wendy's.
(by car)
Take State Street to 4th South.
At 4th South, turn left.
Stay on 4th South for about three blocks.
The sporting goods store will be on the right, next to Wendy's.
How do you get to (your house in) Lehi?
Take I-15 south about 20 miles.
After you cross the mountain, watch for the signs to Lehi.
Take the first Lehi exit.
When you get off the freeway, make a right turn at the stop sign.
Follow the road (15th East) for five blocks.
Make a left turn on Royal Drive.
Continue on Royal Drive until you see the big oak tree.
My house is on the left hand side.
It's a two-story, red brick house with a large front yard.
You can't miss it!
Talking about Locations
Use adverbs and prepositional phrases to indicate locations in English.
Adverbs:
I'm over here.
Waldo's not there.
Prepositional Phrases:
She's in the kitchen.
1. Where are the magazines?
2. Where is the remote control?
3. Where did you put the keys?
4. Where's the spider?
5. Where's Fluffy?
6. Where's Troy's toy truck?
7. Where did you find the book? They're in the living room, on the coffee table.
It's probably on the sofa, between the pillows.
I think they're in the bedroom, in the top drawer.
It's in the bathroom, next to the bathtub.
He's probably hiding under the rocking chair.
It's outside by the big brick bridge.
It was on top of the refrigerator.
See also:Grammar: Prepositions of Location
Talking about locations
1. Where are the magazines?
2. Where is the remote control?
3. Where did you put the keys?
4. Where's the spider?
5. Where's Fluffy?
6. Where's Troy's toy truck?
7. Where did you find the book? They're in the living room, on the coffee table.
It's probably on the sofa, between the pillows.
I think they're in the bedroom, in the top drawer.
It's in the bathroom, next to the bathtub.
He's probably hiding under the rocking chair.
It's outside by the big brick bridge.
It was on top of the refrigerator.
Expressing Possibility
Here are some words and phrases for talking about possibility in English.
• May
• Might
• Can
• Could
• Maybe
• Perhaps
• Probably
1. We can stay here for the evening.
2. I may be in California next Monday.
3. She might not make it to the wedding.
4. We could go (and) see a movie.
Or we could go out for ice cream. I'd rather not. It's only a few more hours (of driving).
Well, let me know what you decide.
That's too bad. I hope she feels better soon.
That would be fun.
ommon Modal Usage
Using Simple Tenses and Modals
To state facts
Present Past Modal
Lions live in Africa. Dinosaurs roamed the earth for millions of years. Mr. Jones can juggle.
Water consists of hydrogen and oxygen. My grandmother passed away last March. He couldn't swim at age 10.
To express opinions
(I think) smoking is a disgusting habit. That was delicious. Gambling should be banned in the US.
The Internet is more useful than the library. I thought she gave an excellent performance. He must really like ice cream.
I think it was a beautiful concert. You should have left earlier.
To indicate actions which occur every day or on a regular basis
I get up at 7:30 every day. When I was in high school, I got up at 6:30. I have to be at the office at 7.
My father drives to work on Tuesdays. My mother rode the bus until she bought a car. They used to take the subway.
With frequency adverbs
Jerry always comes to class on time. At camp, she usually ate breakfast before 7:00. You should never be late for work.
Using Modals in various situations
Requesting Asking Permission Possibility Hinting Other
Can you help me? Can I help you? I can use some help. I can help you.
Could you help me? Could I help you? I could use some help. I could help you.
May I help you? I may need some I may help you.
help. (probably)
I might need some I might help you
help. (probably)
Will you help me? I will need some I will help you.
help. (most likely)
Would you help me? I would need some help. I would help you.
(I guess I probably can't
do it by myself.)
Would you mind Would you mind if
helping me? I helped you?
Speaking Situations: Talking about Abilities
Conversation Practice
1. Ask your partner or classmates about their talents and abilities.
For example,
Can you play a musical instrument?*
Yes, I play the trumpet.
How well do you play?
So-so.
Do you ski?*
No, I don't.
How about other winter sports?
I love to play ice hockey.
*The difference between can and do here is very slight.
"Can" focuses on ability, whereas "do" indicates regular activity.
2. Tell your classmates about your best friend's talents or interests.
For example,
My best friend is an artist. He's really good at painting.
In fact, one of his drawings won a blue ribbon at the county fair.
He also knows how to do sculpture and ceramics.
Nouns
Sports and fitness activities
aerobics
basketball
bicycling
football
jogging
racquetball
Rollerblading
soccer
swimming
tennis
weight training
yoga
Other
classmate
couch potato
fitness freak
free time
(fitness) program
sports fanatic
teen(ager)
Pronoun
nothing
Adjectives
good (at sports/for you)
fit
in (great) shape
middle-aged
old
popular
regular Verbs
exercise
guess
keep
learn
lift (weights)
play (a sport)
stay
take (a walk)
work out
Adverbs
hard
just (= only)
sometime
too
Prepositions
in (my free time)
for (a walk)
like (that)
Interjection
say
Talking about routines
How often do you . . . ?
Three times a week/day/month.
I don't . . . very often.
Do you ever . . . ?
How much time do you spend . . . ?
Around two hours a day.
Talking about abilities
How well do you . . . ?
Pretty well.
Not very well.
How good are you at . . . ?
I'm pretty good, I guess.
Not too good.
Asking for more information
What else . . . ?
Expressing surprise
You're kidding!
Agreeing
All right.
No problem.
Speaking Situations: Offering
Speaking Situations: Offering
Phrases for these situations
Here, have an apple.
Have some strawberries.
Do you want a sandwich?
Would you like some lemonade?
How about a piece of cake?
How would like you some crackers?
Can I get you something to drink?
Vocabulary* for these situations
*Remember to use "some" with plurals and non-count nouns.
Use "a" with singular nouns and measure words.
Conversation practice
Practice offering your partner various food items.
Example,
Would you like some beer?
No thanks. I don't drink.
How about a cup of coffee?
I'd rather not have coffee.
Orange juice?
That would be fine. Thanks.
See also:
Speaking: Accepting and Refusing
Business: Offering
Accepting and Refusing
Accepting and Refusing
Would you like some cake?
Yes, please.
Sure. Thanks
Okay. Thank you
No, thank you
I'd better not.
No, but thanks for offering.
Would you like to go see a movie?
Okay. Sounds good.
Sure. I'd love to.
Yeah. Good idea
No, I'd rather not.
I'm sorry, but I can't.
No, but thanks for inviting me.
How about some more pie?
All right. Thanks
Looks good. Thanks
Don't mind if I do.
No, thanks.
I'm really full. Thanks anyway.
Looks delicious, but I'll have to pass.
How about going skiing this weekend?
Great. What time?
Sounds like fun.
All right. When and where?
Sorry. I'm busy this weekend.
I don't think I can.
How about some other time?
Textbook Recommendation
Offering
Offering
Click for Audio
Informal
Cigarette?
Would you like some coffee?
How about a glass of water?
Here. Have a/some . . .
Would you like one of these?
Can I get you something?
What can I get you something to drink?
No thank you
Yes, please.
Sure. Thanks.
Okay. Thanks.
I really shouldn't.
No. Thanks anyway.
Juice would be fine.
Formal
Would you care for some . . .
Would you like to try . . .
Let me offer you . . .
Let me get you a/some . .
t Really Works!
The following is a summary of terms (Key Vocabulary and Expressions) taught in this unit. Puzzles use these words as answers. (See Puzzle Corner in Resources.)
Go to the Resources Page for This Unit
Nouns
Health problems
backache
burn
cold
cough
dry skin
fever
flu
headache
hiccups
insect bite
insomnia
muscle pain
sore throat
stomachache
stress
sunburn
toothache
Containers and medicines
antacid
aspirin
bandage
bottle
box
can
cold tablets
cough drops
(anti-itch/skin) cream
(eye) drops
heating pad
lotion
ointment
package
sleeping pills
spray
tissue
tube
vitamin (C) Other
chicken stock
dentist
garlic
liquid
meat
medicine cabinet
pepper
pharmacist
remedy
rest
slice
Adjectives
excellent
folk
half
helpful
lots of
sore
tired
useful
Verbs
Modals
could
may
Other
chop up
cut
get (a cold)
put
rest
take (medicine/something
for . . .)
tie
suggest
work (= succeed)
Prepositions
in (bed)
under (cold water)
Talking about health problems
How are you?
Not so good. I have . . . .
That's too bad.
Offering and accepting assistance
Can/May I help you?
Yes, please. Could/Can/May I have . . . ?
Here you are.
Thanks a lot.
Asking for and giving advice
What should you do . . . ?
It's helpful/a good idea to . . . .
Asking for and giving suggestions
What do you suggest for . . . ?
Try/I suggest/You should get . . . .
Expressing dislike
Ugh!
Situations: Asking for Repetition
Speaking Situations: Asking for Repetition
Phrases for these situations
Excuse me? (said like a question)
Pardon me? (rising intonation)
What did you say (your name was)?
Did you say . . . ?
Can you repeat that?
Could you say that again please?
What was that again?
Sorry, I didn't catch that.
Could you speak up please?
Could you speak a little louder?
Conversation Practice
1. Pretend you are being introduced to someone at a party.
The music is very loud, and you can't hear your partner clearly.
Example,
What did you say your name was?
Cindy Carton.
Did you say Sidney or Cindy?
Cindy, like the famous model.
2. Pretend your partner is applying for a passport.
Ask him/her for personal information*
(name, birth date, address, telephone number, etc.)
Then practice asking for repetition.
For example,
What is your date of birth?
August 15, 1981.
Did you say August 16th?
No, August 15th.
*Since this is a "role play," you don't have to use actual (real) information.
You may "make up" dates, numbers, etc.
Textbook: English Knowhow, Book 1, Chapter 4
Let's Talk!
• Today's News Stories
• Conversation Topics
• Current Topics
• Phrases for Conversation
• English Conversation Partners
Related Items
• Daily Lessons
• Word of the Day
• For Your Information (Articles)
• Words in the News
• Speaking Situations
• ESLgold Dictionary
• Academic Vocabulary Lists
• Today's Talking Topics
• Videos to Talk about
• Short Reading Exercises
• Pictures, Words, and Audio
• Business Expressions
• Grammar Explanations
• Textbook Recommendations
• Software and CD-ROMs
Speaking Situations: Inviting
Speaking Situations: Inviting
Do you want to / wanna (very informal)
Would you like to
Will you . . . (with me)
How about V+ing
How would you like to
I was wondering if you would (like to)
I would like to invite you to (more formal)
Vocabulary for these situations
Conversation practice
When inviting someone to do something with you,
it is polite to "break the ice" before extending the invitation.
For example,
Will you go dancing with me on Friday? (too abrupt by itself)
(Give the other person time to "prepare" for your invitation.)
Do you have time on Friday?
Yes, I do. Why do you ask?
There's a dance at the Grand Ballroom.
Would you like to go with me?
Sure! I'd love to.
Role play the following situations with a partner.
Include details and give a variety of responses.
1. Invite your partner to go fishing this weekend.
2. Invite your partner to your home for dinner.
3. Invite your partner to see the circus.
4. Invite your partner to attend your violin concert.
5. Invite your partner to attend a political rally.
6. Invite your partner to your child's performance.
7. Invite your partner to your son's graduation party.
See also: Speaking: Accepting and Refusing
Textbook: Touchy Situations, Chapter 7
Textbook: New Interchange 1, Chapter 4
Textbook: English Knowhow, Book 1, Chapter 3
Speaking Situations: Requesting
Speaking Situations: Requesting
Can you
Could you
Will you
Would you
Would you mind V+ing
Grammar for these situations
Conversation practice
Requesting is very similar to asking for favors.
(Click here for additional phrases and practice.)
In most cases, when you ask someone to do something for you,
it is important to use an introductory phrase to soften the request.
For example,
Lend me your umbrella! (too abrupt; sounds rude)
Excuse me, could you lend me your umbrella? (more polite)
Help me fix my car. (sounds too demanding)
Sorry to bother you. I'm having trouble with my car.
Would you mind helping me for a minute? (better)
Role play the following situations with a partner.
Include details and give a variety of responses.
1. Ask your partner to repeat something.
2. Ask your partner to help you with your homework.
3. Ask your partner to "give you a lift" to school.
4. Ask your partner to donate money to charity.
5. Ask your partner to baby sit your children.
6. Ask your partner to clean up the mess.
7. Ask your partner to take notes for you in class.
Speaking Situations: Asking for Favors
Speaking Situations: Asking For Favors
Phrases for these situations
Vocabulary for these situations
Grammar for these situations
Conversation practice
Practice asking your classmates to do favors for you.
See the sample phrases below.
Getting someone's attention
Excuse me,
Pardon me,
Sorry to bother you, but . . .
Asking the favor (from least formal to most polite):
Can you open the door for me?
Will you hand me a pencil?
Would you turn on the air conditioner?
Could you help me with these boxes?
Would you please turn down the music?
Could you possibly give me a ride home?
Would you mind taking a picture for us?
Would you be so kind as to lend me your cell phone?
Follow-up
Thanks for your help
Thank you so much.
Thanks, I really appreciate it.
Sample conversation:
Excuse me, could you do me a favor?
Sure, what is it?
Could you help me move these chairs?
No problem. / I'd be glad to.
Thanks a lot.
See also:
Grammar: Basic Modals
Business: Asking for Help
Nouns
Seasons
fall
spring
summer
winter
Other
arrival
beach
departure
harbor
hometown
(flea) market
million
nightlife
tourist
visitor
Pronoun
you (= anyone)
Adjectives
beautiful
cold
crowded
dangerous
dirty
friendly
hot
humid
modern
relaxing
stressful
ugly Verbs
Modals
can
should
Other
hate
Adverb
anytime
Prepositions
at (the beach)
in (the fall)
on (the street)
Conjunctions
however
though
Describing something
What's . . . like?
It's . . . , but it's not too . . . .
It's . . . , and it's . . . .
Asking for a favor
Can you . . . ?
Yes, I can./Sure I can.
No, I can't.
Asking for and giving suggestions
What should I . . . ?
You should . . . .
You shouldn't . . . .
Should I . . . ?
Yes, you should./No, you shouldn't.
Talking about advisability
What can you do?
You can . . . .
You can't . . . .
Asking for Help
Asking for Help
Could you . . . . (for me) ?
Would you please . . . ?
Would you mind V+ing . . . .?
Could you possibly . . . ?
Okay, no problem.
Sure, I'd be glad to.
Sorry, I'm (kind of) busy now.
I'm sorry. I don't have time right now.
Do you have a minute?
Can you spare a few minutes?
Could you do me a favor?
Could I ask you a favor?
Can I ask you to . . . ?
I need some help (if you have time).
(If you're not busy) I could use your help.
For Conversation practice:
Speaking Situations: Asking for Favors
See also:
Grammar: Basic Modals
Grammar: Common Modal Usage
peaking Situations: Asking for Favors
Speaking Situations: Asking For Favors
Phrases for these situations
Vocabulary for these situations
Grammar for these situations
Conversation practice
Practice asking your classmates to do favors for you.
See the sample phrases below.
Getting someone's attention
Excuse me,
Pardon me,
Sorry to bother you, but . . .
Asking the favor (from least formal to most polite):
Can you open the door for me?
Will you hand me a pencil?
Would you turn on the air conditioner?
Could you help me with these boxes?
Would you please turn down the music?
Could you possibly give me a ride home?
Would you mind taking a picture for us?
Would you be so kind as to lend me your cell phone?
Follow-up
Thanks for your help
Thank you so much.
Thanks, I really appreciate it.
Sample conversation:
Excuse me, could you do me a favor?
Sure, what is it?
Could you help me move these chairs?
No problem. / I'd be glad to.
Thanks a lot.
Situations: Making Plans for the Weekend
Speaking Situations: Making Plans for the Weekend
Conversation Practice
When making plans with someone else, it is polite to ask about the other person's time and availability.
For example,
• Are you free this Friday?
• What are you doing this weekend?
• Are you busy tonight?
• Do you have time after class?
Positive responses (interest and availability)
• Sure! Do you want to do something?
• I'm free all weekend.
• I'm open this evening.
• I don't have anything scheduled.
Negative responses (non-interest or non-availability)
• Sorry, I have plans this weekend.
• I'm going to (Las Vegas) with (my friends).
• Unfortunately not. I have something else scheduled.
• Not really. (I'm kind of busy tonight.)
To indicate interest, but temporary non-availability
• I'm not free on Friday, but I do have time Saturday.
• I'm going to be out of town, but I'll be back next weekend.
• I have something planned. How about tomorrow?
• I'm busy today. How about some other time?
Once you have determined that the other person has time and interest, suggest an activity.
• Do you want to (wanna) go to a movie?
• How about having dinner together?
• There's a concert at the Galivan Center. Want to go?
• Why don't we go bowling?
Possible responses
• Sounds good.
• Good idea.
• That would be fun/great.
• When/where should we meet?
1. Practice finding out if your partner is free, then asking him/her to do something with you.
2. Practice giving both positive and negative responses.
Include details to make it more interesting.
For review, Speaking: Making suggestions
Speaking: Talking about the future
Textbook: New Interchange 1, Chapter 15
Textbook: English Knowhow, Book 1, Chapter 3
Nouns
(comedy) act
(leisure) activity
address
amusement park
barbecue
cafeteria
(telephone) call
dictionary
(craft) fair
(arts/crafts) festival
gathering
handout
hockey
meeting
message
monument
musical
plan
spectator
(tennis) tournament
turn
Adjectives
canceled
historic
live Verbs
finish
give
open
pick (someone) up
plan
return
speak
Adverbs
in
overtime
tomorrow
Prepositions
at (college)
till (7:00)
Conjunction
that
Talking about plans
What are you doing tonight?
I'm going . . . .
Are you doing anything tomorrow/tonight?
No, I'm not.
What is he going to do tonight?
He's going to . . . .
Is he going to . . . tomorrow night?
Yes, he is.
Apologizing and giving reasons
I'm sorry, but I can't go.
I'm working late.
Accepting and refusing invitations
Would you like to . . . ?/
Do you want to . . . ?
I'd love to.
Oh, sorry, I can't.
Making a business call
Good morning, . . . .
Hello. May I speak to . . . , please?
. . . 's not in. Can I take a message?
Yes, please. This is . . . . Would you ask . . . to call me?
My number is . . . .
I'll give . . . the message.
Thank you. Good-bye.
Leaving and taking messages
Can/May I take a message?
Please tell . . . (that) . . . .
Please ask . . . to . . . .
Would/Could you tell . . . (that) . . . ?
Would/Could you ask . . . to . . . ?
Making Plans for the Weekend
What are you doing this Saturday?
Do you want to go see a movie?
What's playing at the Century Fox?*
Should we go see it?
How about "Run of the Mill?"
Why don't we go to a concert instead? Not much.
That sounds good.
"Candlelight in the Window."
I'd rather not. I don't like horror movies.
No. I heard that's really boring.
Great idea!
*In English we often say "What's playing at the (name of theater)?" to find out what movie is showing at a given location.
Speaking Situations: Making Suggestions
Speaking Situations: Making Suggestions
Phrases for these situations
I think you should. . .
I don't think you should. . .
Maybe you should. . .
Why don't you. . .
Why don't we. . .
Let's. . .
That's a good idea.
Thanks for the advice.
Good suggestion.
Sounds like a good idea.
Conversation Practice
With a partner, practice making suggestions in the following situations:
1. Help your partner decide which item to buy.
2. Warn your partner against doing something.
3. Suggest that your partner change his/her plans.
4. Help your partner make up his/her mind.
5. Suggest doing an activity together.
Sample conversations:
A: Should I buy the Porsche or the Ferrari?
B: I think you should buy the Ferrari.
A: Why is that?
B: Because I'd like to borrow it.
A: Why don't you give Daphne a call?
B: Good idea. I haven't seen her for awhile.
A: Maybe you should ask her out.
B: Hmmm. I'll think about it.
Nouns
Music*
classical
country
gospel
jazz
New Age
pop
rap/urban
rock
salsa
*Names of musical styles can be used as nouns or adjectives.
Movies
comedy
horror film
science fiction
thriller
western
TV programs
game show
news
soap opera
talk show
Entertainers
actor
actress
group
singer
Other
CD
date
dinner
fan
(baseball) game
gym
kind (of)
piano
play
theater
ticket
trumpet
video Adjectives
best
favorite
new
Verbs
agree
ask
come over
go out
have to
know
listen to
meet
need
play (an instrument)
save
sing
think of
visit
want
Adverbs
just
really
tonight
Prepositions
for (dinner)
on (TV)
with (me)
Talking about likes and dislikes
Do you like . . . ?
Yes, I do. I like . . . a lot.
No, I don't. I can't stand . . . .
No, I don't like . . . very much.
What kind of . . . do you like?
What do you think of . . . ?
What's/Who's your favorite . . . ?
Giving opinions
I like . . . . Do you?
I can't stand . . . . How about you?
I think . . . .
We don't agree on . . . .
Inviting and accepting/refusing invitations
Would you like to . . . ?
Yes, I would./I'd love to.
Do you want to . . . ?
That sounds great.
I'd like to, but I have to . . . .
Making suggestions
Why don't you . . . ?
Let's . . . .
That sounds fine.
Asking about events
When is it?
Where is it?
What time does it start?
Where should we . . . ?
Asking for more information
How about . . . ?
Situations: Introducing Others
Conversation Practice
These types of introductions involve three people:
A: The introducer (who knows both B and C)
B: Introducee (knows A but not C)
C: Introducee (knows A but not B)
Example,
A: Have you two met each other?
B: No, we haven't.
A: Ben, this is Carol. Carol this is Ben.
(B and C smile and shake hands.)
B: Nice to meet you Carol.
C: Nice to meet you too, Ben.
Follow-up:
After you have been introduced to someone,
it is polite to ask a few general questions* to get acquainted.
For example,
B: Where are you from, Carol?
C: I'm from Connecticut.
B: Connecticut, which part?
C: Hartford, the capital. How about you, Ben?
B: Nebraska--a place called Bellevue. It's near Omaha.
C: How do you know Alan (A)?
B: He is my friend from college.
Practice introducing your friends to each other.
Remember to smile (and use handshakes where appropriate).
*When meeting someone for the first time,
it is not appropriate to ask certain types of questions.
Do NOT ask:
A person's age
Birth date
Salary
Weight
Marital status
You may ask general questions about the situation.
How do you know Alan (the person who introduced us)?
Are you a student at this university?
Is this your first time here?
What do you do for a living?
How long have you been working for (company)?
Nouns
back
bow
cheek
class
Dad
engineering
female
friend
greeting
handshake
hug
kiss
male
Mom
(first/last/full) name
nickname
parents
pat
student
(baseball/volleyball) team
women
Titles
Miss
Mr.
Mrs.
Ms.
Adjectives
married
same
single
Articles
a
the
Verbs
am
are
is
Adverbs
here
(over) there
too
Prepositions
from (Paris/France)
in (English 102/Canada)
on (the volleyball team/
the back)
Conjunctions
and
but
Interjections
oh
well
Greeting someone
Hello.
Hi.
Exchanging personal information
What's your name?
I'm . . . ./My name is . . . .
Where are you from?
I'm from . . . .
How's everything?/How are you?
Not bad.
Pretty good, thanks.
Introducing someone
This is . . . ./These are . . . .
Nice to/Pleased to/Good to meet you.
Asking about someone
Who's that?
That's . . . .
Who are they?
Their names are . . . and . . . .
Checking information
How do you pronounce . . . ?
It's Mandel, with the accent on the "del."
How do you spell . . . ?
What do people call you?
Please call me . . . .
You can call me . . . .
Everyone calls me . . . .
Excuse me, what's . . . again?
It's . . . .
Are you studying . . . ?/Are you on vacation?
Yes, I am./No, I'm not.
Agreeing
That's right.
OK.
Nouns
back
bow
cheek
class
Dad
engineering
female
friend
greeting
handshake
hug
kiss
male
Mom
(first/last/full) name
nickname
parents
pat
student
(baseball/volleyball) team
women
Titles
Miss
Mr.
Mrs.
Ms.
Adjectives
married
same
single
Articles
a
the
Verbs
am
are
is
Adverbs
here
(over) there
too
Prepositions
from (Paris/France)
in (English 102/Canada)
on (the volleyball team/
the back)
Conjunctions
and
but
Interjections
oh
well
Greeting someone
Hello.
Hi.
Exchanging personal information
What's your name?
I'm . . . ./My name is . . . .
Where are you from?
I'm from . . . .
How's everything?/How are you?
Not bad.
Pretty good, thanks.
Introducing someone
This is . . . ./These are . . . .
Nice to/Pleased to/Good to meet you.
Asking about someone
Who's that?
That's . . . .
Who are they?
Their names are . . . and . . . .
Checking information
How do you pronounce . . . ?
It's Mandel, with the accent on the "del."
How do you spell . . . ?
What do people call you?
Please call me . . . .
You can call me . . . .
Everyone calls me . . . .
Excuse me, what's . . . again?
It's . . . .
Are you studying . . . ?/Are you on vacation?
Yes, I am./No, I'm not.
Agreeing
That's right.
OK.
Situation: At the Store
When you enter the store/start a conversation with the clerk:
What a clerk might say:
May I help you?
Can I help you?
Can I help you find something?
What can I do for you?
What a customer might say:
Excuse me. Do you work here?
(Can you help me?)
Can I ask you something?
What a customer might respond:
Yes. I'm looking for ________________.
Do you have any ___________ (s)?
Can you tell me where the ___________is/are?
When you check out/leave the store:
Clerk:
Did you find everything you needed?
Did you find what you were looking for?
Did you find everything okay?
Will that be all (for today)?
Is that everything?
(Will there be) anything else?
Customer:
That's all for today.
That's it. Thanks.
Nouns
Clothes and jewelry
backpack
bag
boots
bracelet
cap
earrings
gloves
jacket
(pair of) jeans
necklace
pants
ring
Rollerblades
scarf
shirt
(athletic) shoes
sunglasses
sweater
tie
watch
Materials*
cotton
gold
leather
plastic
polyester
rubber
silk
silver
wool
*Names of materials can be used as nouns or adjectives.
Other
adult
color
compact disc
cost
(room) decor
design
dollar
entertainment
(for) example
expenses
(gallon of) gas
haircut
health
money
(birthday) present
price
salary
savings
style
(price) tag
taxes
thing
transportation Adjectives
attractive
bad
big
cheap
dark
different
each
expensive
good
large
light
medium
nice
OK
perfect
pretty
reasonable
small
warm
yearly
Verbs
buy
get
have on
let (me) + verb
look (= seem)
look at
pay (for)
prefer
spend (money)
try on
Adverbs
almost
better
more
right there
Preposition
for (you)
Conjunction
or
Talking about prices
How much is this sweater?
It's . . . .
That isn't bad.
How much are those shoes?
They're . . . .
That's expensive.
Comparing
The black boots are more attractive/prettier than the brown ones.
Identifying things
Which one?
The wool one.
Which ones?
The blue ones.
Talking about preferences
Which one do you like better/more?
I like the . . . one better/more.
Which ones do you prefer?
I prefer the . . . ones.
Getting someone's attention
Excuse me.
Hey.
Look!
Making and declining an offer
Would you like to . . . ?
Oh, no. That's OK.
Thanking someone
Thank you (anyway).
You're welcome.
Asking for more information
Why?
Do you mean . . . ?
Oh, these?
Expressing doubt
Hmm.
I'm not sure.
Expressing surprise
Are you kidding?
Speaking Situations: Encouraging Words
Conversation practice:
Role play* the following situations with a partner:
Arriving
1. Your partner has just arrived at your home. What do you say?
2. You haven't seen your partner for a long time.
What do you say when you see him/her again?
3. Your partner just arrived at the airport in your city. Welcome him/her.
Additional phrases:
It's good to be here. (guest says)
I hope you had a nice flight. (host says)
Leaving
4. After a short conversation, your friend has to leave.
What do you say to him/her?
5. You are seeing your friend off at the airport.
What do you say?
6. Your partner is leaving a party that you hosted. What do you say?
Additional phrases:
Thanks for coming. (host says)
I'm glad you came.
Thanks for inviting me. (guest says)
I really had a good time.
Encouragement
7. Your partner has a big exam this afternoon. What do you say?
8. Your partner has a job interview tomorrow. What do you say?
Reassurance
9. Your partner's dog was hit by a car. He/She is worried, but the dog will be okay.
What do you say?
Good news
10. Your partner's wife just had a healthy baby daughter. What do you say?
11. Your partner just got a huge promotion at work. What do you say?
12. Your partner just won first prize in a cooking contest. What do you say?
Bad news
13. Your partner lost $15,000 on the stock market. What do you say?
14. Your partner's grandmother just passed away. What do you say?
15. Your partner's home was destroyed by a tornado. What do you say?
*Note:
A typical response to an expression of goodwill is "thank you (for . . .)"
or a reciprocal expression of goodwill.
Example,
Come in. Welcome to our home.
Thanks for inviting us.
It's been nice talking to you.
Good talking to you too.
Situations: Introducing Others
Conversation Practice
These types of introductions involve three people:
A: The introducer (who knows both B and C)
B: Introducee (knows A but not C)
C: Introducee (knows A but not B)
Example,
A: Have you two met each other?
B: No, we haven't.
A: Ben, this is Carol. Carol this is Ben.
(B and C smile and shake hands.)
B: Nice to meet you Carol.
C: Nice to meet you too, Ben.
Follow-up:
After you have been introduced to someone,
it is polite to ask a few general questions* to get acquainted.
For example,
B: Where are you from, Carol?
C: I'm from Connecticut.
B: Connecticut, which part?
C: Hartford, the capital. How about you, Ben?
B: Nebraska--a place called Bellevue. It's near Omaha.
C: How do you know Alan (A)?
B: He is my friend from college.
Practice introducing your friends to each other.
Remember to smile (and use handshakes where appropriate).
*When meeting someone for the first time,
it is not appropriate to ask certain types of questions.
Do NOT ask:
A person's age
Birth date
Salary
Weight
Marital status
You may ask general questions about the situation.
How do you know Alan (the person who introduced us)?
Are you a student at this university?
Is this your first time here?
What do you do for a living?
How long have you been working for (company)?
Textbook: New Interchange 1, Chapter 1
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