Read the questions below. Think of different ways to answer them.
Starting a Conversation How do you like this weather? Are you enjoying this class? Did you hear about ____? (something in the news, for example) How long have you been waiting? (for the elevator, the bus, the meeting to begin, etc.) |
In pairs, choose one of these situations. Try to make small talk for as long as you can. Then change partners and situations and practice again.
at a welcome party for new students waiting in line in the school cafeteria at the airport walking in the park |
Two classmates are talking. Fill in the blanks in the conversation.
A: Have you ever traveled to another country?
B: No, I have (1) ___ left this country, but I want to go to Colombia someday. Some of my cousins live there.
A: I see. Have you (2) ____ met your Colombian cousins?
B: Yes, I have met them (3) ____ . They came here last vear.
A: That's nice. Are there any other countries you want to visit?
B: I want to visit Australia someday. Have you (4) ____ been there?
A: No, I haven't (5) ____ been there. Why do you want to go?
B: Well, I learned about Australian Rules football last year, but I haven't played the game (6) ____. Maybe I can play it in Australia!
Practice the conversation in C with a partner.
In pairs, discuss the questions about traveling.
1. What are some places you have traveled to?
2. Where would you like to go that you haven't been yet?
Close your book and listen to the conversation. What do the speakers decide to do about the homework?
Tom: Excuse me. Are you in my history class?
Rita: Yes! I saw you in class yesterday. I'm Rita.
Tom: Hi, Rita. I'm Tom. Is this your first class with Mr. Olsen?
Rita: Yes, it is, but I’ve heard good things about him. What about you?
Tom: I've taken his classes before, and they've always been good.
Rita: That's great. Have you already done the homework for tomorrow?
Tom: No, not yet. How about you?
Rita: Not yet. Maybe we can call each other to talk about it.
Tom: That's a great idea! I'll give you my number.
Start a Conversation. Move around the class. Walk up to five classmates and start a short conversation. Choose a topic and use Have you ever...?
classes foods movies travels your idea |
Sample: Have you ever taken a class with Ms. Lee before?
Yes, I took an art class with her.