Conversation
Speaking 7 - ELP:
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Learning Objectives:
By the end of this class I can:
deal with less common situations in a shop, post office (e.g. returning an unsatisfactory purchase).
exchange information on a wide range of topics within their field with some confidence.
describe objects, possessions and products in detail, including their characteristics and special features.
give basic technical instructions in their field of specialization.
justify a viewpoint on a topical issue by discussing pros and cons of various options.
correct mistakes if they have led to misunderstandings.
justify and sustain views clearly by providing relevant explanations and arguments.
give the advantages and disadvantages of various options on a topical issue.
pass on a detailed piece of information reliably.
take part in routine formal discussions conducted in clear standard speech in which factual information is exchanged.
describe future plans and intentions in detail, giving degrees of probability.
paraphrase in simpler terms what someone else has said.
express an inference or assumption about a person's mood or emotional state.
talk about possibilities in the past with precision.
show interest and appreciation in conversation using a range of expressions.
bring relevant personal experiences into a conversation to illustrate a point.
describe an everyday consumer-related problem and request a correction or solution.
use a limited number of cohesive devices with some ‘jumpiness’ in a long contribution.
engage in extended conversation in a clearly participatory fashion on most general topics.
respond to clearly expressed questions on a presentation they have given.
give detailed answers to questions in a face-to-face survey.
express feelings (e.g. sympathy, surprise, interest) with confidence, using a range of expressions.
use a range of language to make detailed comparisons of quantities.
show degrees of agreement using a range of language.
make a note of favorite mistakes and consciously monitor speech for them.
construct a chain of reasoned argument.
describe how to do something, giving detailed instructions.
encourage discussion by inviting others to join in, say what they think, etc.
use a range of language to express degrees of enthusiasm.
recommend a course of action, giving reasons.
make a formal apology with detailed excuses or reasons.
develop an argument giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view.
give a clear, detailed spoken description of how to carry out a procedure.
describe the personal significance of events and experiences in detail.
accurately describe a problem with a product or piece of equipment.
express views clearly and evaluate hypothetical proposals in informal discussions.
explain a problem and demand what action should be taken in an appropriate way.
summarize orally the plot and sequence of events in an extract from a film or play.
speculate about causes, consequences, hypothetical situations.
use stock phrases to gain time and keep the turn whilst formulating what to say.
plan what is to be said and the means to say it, considering the effect on the recipient.
make spontaneous announcements clearly and fluently.
fluently substitute an equivalent term for a word they can’t recall.
compare and contrast situations in some detail and speculate about the reasons for the current situation.
manage discussion on familiar topics confirming comprehension, inviting others in, etc.
describe goals using a range of expressions.
express opinions about news stories using a wide range of everyday language.
use a range of language to express degrees of reluctance.
use intonation to indicate various degrees of certainty during a discussion.
summarize a wide range of texts, discussing contrasting points and main themes.
develop a clear argument with supporting subsidiary points and relevant examples.
give clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of familiar subjects.
contribute to a conversation fluently and naturally, provided the topic is not too abstract or complex.
develop an argument well enough to be followed without difficulty most of the time.
give advice on a wide range of subjects.
outline an issue or problem clearly.
Tasks
C/ Community access tasks: Get needed service from a doctor, dentist, or pharmacist. Order a meal.
Ask for detailed meal suggestions at a restaurant. Ask a doctor or a nurse for advice about specific problems. Ask advice from a financial advisor about basic RRSP investment. Ask a mechanic/ car expert for advice on a mechanical problem or about a car purchase. Give recommendations to friends, neighbours on a familiar topic. Provide information regarding services in the area / neighbourhood. Ask for recommendations or advice in a business meeting / formal discussion.
S / Study / Academic tasks: Ask counsellors or peers for information and advice on matters of education and career; discuss choices. Reject recommendations in a socially appropriate manner; provide explanations. Make a 10-minute oral presentation on organisms, energy and matter, mechanics and machines, computer and other technology. Make a 10-minute oral presentation about Canadian cities, other geographical locations or communities, governments, institutions or population. Make a 10-minute oral presentation about the characteristics of Canadian culture and other cultures. Make a 10-minute oral presentation of a Canadian short story, poem, non-fiction. Describe, compare, and contrast characteristics that people in specific careers or occupations are expected to demonstrate, e.g., social workers and lab workers, or greenhouse workers and real estate agents.
W / Workplace tasks: Speak with co-workers and supervisors to clarify schedules and coordinate activities. Respond to minor client complaints by apologizing and addressing the problem; refer serious complaints to the supervisor. Consult with supervisor and get approval on direction and co-ordination of work. Speak with familiar suppliers of goods and services to obtain information such as the capabilities of a specific machine. Make travel arrangements for a business trip; arrange and confirm accommodation.
Interact with others (clients, neighbours, colleagues) to share stories and knowledge of a subject area / local area (history, resources, flora and fauna, tourist attractions). Summarize simple information on routine company policies and procedures for customers. Convey accurate information on service charges, fees, etc. Take an order at a restaurant. Describe and compare two similar simple dishes / menu items.
Make an extended suggestion on how to solve an immediate single problem or how to improve a procedure or outcome; give reason; predict consequences / effect of certain actions (We should do this:....If we do X, Y will happen and it will solve the problem ). Evaluate / question the validity of a suggestion/ proposed solution to an immediate single problem; warn co-worker or supervisor of negative results or effects of proposed changes / lack of action. (If we do X, Y will happen, and it will not solve the problem / will make the problem worse.). Negotiate time taken on particular tasks. Describe to a customer the features of two similar items, e.g., two different brands of a coffee maker. Handle a complaint or dissatisfaction from a customer in an initial stage; refer him / her to the supervisor. Approach supervisor to report a workplace problem and possible consequences. Answer the phone with a set phrase and answer basic questions, e.g., about hours of operation. Answer product / stock based questions from co-workers in person or over the phone, sometimes by calling another location about the needed item. Make work- related suggestions in staff meetings, e.g., point out perceived safety hazard and suggest a way to deal with it.
Approach the supervisor / management to ask for/ discuss a raise or a promotion. Introduce / present colleagues, guests, customers at a meeting. Thank formally colleagues, guests, customers at a meeting.