English Speaking Skills Chapter 1 & 2
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English Speaking Skills Chapter 1 & 2

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Questions and Answers

What can you ask someone about their job when starting a conversation?

What do you do for a living?

What is a good comment to start a conversation with someone in a park?

It’s a beautiful day, isn’t it?

What question can you ask a student about their studies?

What are you studying?

How can you start a conversation at an art gallery?

<p>That's an interesting painting. What do you think of it?</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might you say at a bar to start a conversation?

<p>This is a great song – I love Latin music. How about you?</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a question you can ask regarding someone's interest in an activity?

<p>How did you get into it?</p> Signup and view all the answers

It is common to ask about the weather to start a conversation with someone you have just met.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

What question can you ask to learn about someone's experience in a field?

<p>How long have you been interested in it?</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can you ask about the relationship between two people when introduced?

<p>How do you two know each other?</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the four literacy skills that need to be honed to be proficient in any language?

<p>Listening, speaking, reading, and writing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason learners struggle with speaking English?

<p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Stephen Krashen, writing and reading are more exposed skills than speaking.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two systems of second language performance according to Krashen's Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis?

<p>The acquired system and the learned system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one benefit of learning English mentioned in the content?

<p>It is the language of science and technology</p> Signup and view all the answers

The term ________ describes the immersion process when children learn their first language.

<p>acquisition</p> Signup and view all the answers

What phrase describes the input needed for language improvement according to Krashen?

<p>Comprehensible input</p> Signup and view all the answers

English is the most spoken language in the world with an estimated 380 million native speakers.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many countries recognize English as an official or co-official language?

<p>45</p> Signup and view all the answers

What cognitive benefits can arise from learning a foreign language?

<p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

Mastery of the English language can put immigrants at a higher ________ compared to those who don’t.

<p>leverage</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are common phrases to ask how someone is?

<p>What's up? What's new? What have you been up to lately? How's it going? How are things? How's life?</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when someone says 'It's raining cats and dogs'?

<p>It is raining very hard.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do 'be on cloud nine' and 'weather the storm' mean?

<p>'Be on cloud nine' means to feel very happy, and 'weather the storm' means to survive difficult times.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase would you use to say thank you?

<p>No problem.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The phrase 'It's a bit pricey' means the item is inexpensive.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Complete the phrase: 'I owe you one' means __________.

<p>I need to do a favor for you in the future.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The idiom 'full of hot air' refers to a person who talks a lot and __________.

<p>says things that aren't completely true</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a way to respond to great news?

<p>That's great! How wonderful! Awesome!</p> Signup and view all the answers

List two phrases commonly used to politely end a conversation.

<p>It was nice chatting with you. Anyway, I should get going.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of the idiom 'when it rains, it pours'?

<p>Everything happens all at once.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the modern language learners' approach to grammar?

<p>They combine all components of language and see grammar as a tool to help in conversation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do modern language learners avoid discouragement in grammar learning?

<p>By taking it easy and viewing grammar as a journey, not a destination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Conversational grammar is considered acceptable for language learning.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

What process do modern learners use to practice grammar?

<p>They use the one grammar concept last learned in a conversation five times within the next day.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of reading what you enjoy in a foreign language?

<p>It exposes learners to grammar in its natural context and makes learning easier.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a modern approach to studying grammar?

<p>Reading what you enjoy</p> Signup and view all the answers

When do we typically put a comma in direct speech?

<p>We put a comma between the reporting clause and the reported clause.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main distinction between direct speech and indirect speech?

<p>Direct speech repeats the exact words, while indirect speech paraphrases the original speaker's words.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which reporting verb is more commonly used in indirect speech?

<p>Tell</p> Signup and view all the answers

In indirect speech, we do not use question marks or exclamation marks when reporting questions and exclamations. This is known as the ______.

<p>zero-that</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are gerunds and infinitives used for?

<p>They are verb forms that act as nouns in sentences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the best ways to learn new vocabulary words?

<p>Reading and listening.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a tip for memorizing new words?

<p>Ignore the definitions</p> Signup and view all the answers

It is important to speak quickly to sound more confident.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these techniques can help develop confidence when speaking English?

<p>Breathe deeply</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to express emotions accurately in English?

<p>Expand your vocabulary.</p> Signup and view all the answers

One way to practice expressing your thoughts in English is to listen to songs and describe the ______.

<p>message</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when starting a conversation while meeting someone new?

<p>Use greetings</p> Signup and view all the answers

Mirroring the other person's words in a conversation is usually considered rude.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of greetings are typically used in formal situations?

<p>Hello, good morning, good evening.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the conversation starters with their situations.

<p>Hi, John. How are you doing? = Starting a conversation with a colleague. Long time no see! = Reconnecting with a friend after a long time. Have you tried the chocolate cake? = Starting a conversation at a party. I don’t think we’ve met – I’m Shayna. = Starting a conversation at a conference.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Choose the correct word: The film was so ________, I nearly fell asleep.

<p>Boring</p> Signup and view all the answers

Choose the correct word: The pupils are clearly ________. The lesson isn’t very interesting.

<p>Bored</p> Signup and view all the answers

Choose the correct word: I love yoga and always feel ________ after my practice.

<p>Relaxed</p> Signup and view all the answers

Choose the correct word: Sara had a very ________ holiday.

<p>Relaxing</p> Signup and view all the answers

Choose the correct word: It’s so ________ to get up at 5.30 every morning.

<p>Tiring</p> Signup and view all the answers

Choose the correct word: I’m really ________ after my lessons until 4 p.m. today.

<p>Tired</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Sabine do when she was 17?

<p>Took up the saxophone.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What instrument did Junior study at the Juilliard School?

<p>Violin.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Tina currently doing with the flute?

<p>Learning.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Timo give up when he started college?

<p>Drums.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many hours a day does Anwar practice the piano?

<p>2 hours.</p> Signup and view all the answers

One ________ the most memorable things I have ever done ________ whale watching in Maine, USA.

<p>of, was.</p> Signup and view all the answers

I was told that ________ best time to see the giants of the ocean was ________ April.

<p>the, in.</p> Signup and view all the answers

My family and I went in late April and joined a whale watching tour ________ Portland, Maine.

<p>in.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What surprising thing happened 15 minutes after setting off on the whale watching tour?

<p>They spotted their first whale.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did the sight of the whale do to the narrator?

<p>Took my breath away.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many whales did they see in total that day?

<p>Seven.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does understanding English grammar help learners to do?

<p>Communicate effectively</p> Signup and view all the answers

Good grammar is not important in daily life.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is grammar generally perceived by modern language learners?

<p>As a supplemental tool that holds language together</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one way suggested to improve grammar?

<p>Read more in English.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

English Speaking Skills

  • Mastery of English involves four literacy skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
  • Proficiency in listening and speaking are critical for effective communication.
  • Common barriers to speaking English include fear of failure, fear of judgment, and anxiety.
  • Limited exposure to the language (15 to 20 minutes daily) can hinder learners' confidence and vocabulary growth.

Language Learning Theories

  • Stephen Krashen’s theory of Second Language Acquisition emphasizes immersion, practice, and comprehensible input.
  • Language acquisition mirrors how children learn their first language (L1) in a natural environment.
  • Distinction between two systems:
    • Acquired system (subconscious learning through interaction).
    • Learned system (formal instruction focusing on grammar rules).

Importance of English

  • English is the most widely spoken language globally, with 380 million native and 300 million second-language speakers.
  • Official or co-official in 45 countries, crucial for careers in science, aviation, and business.
  • Provides access to global literature, music, film, and the internet, enriching cultural experiences.

Professional Advantages

  • Learning English enhances job opportunities and increases earning potential.
  • Essential for businesses operating in international markets to communicate effectively.
  • Fluency in English is linked to improved communication, cognitive skills, and adaptability.

Cognitive and Personal Development

  • Learning English develops life skills that aid in coping with change and unfamiliar situations.
  • Benefits include better vocabulary, literacy levels, and cognitive development, impacting problem-solving and creativity.
  • Regular practice of English in daily life reinforces learning and improves fluency.

Strategies for Effective Learning

  • Remain motivated by setting clear goals and recognizing progress.
  • Utilize a variety of resources (texts, media) to enhance exposure and understanding of language nuances.
  • Break learning into manageable tasks to prevent overwhelm and promote retention.
  • Keep a listening diary to track progress and areas for improvement.

Engaging with Language

  • Practice daily by incorporating English into everyday activities, like cooking or commuting.
  • Explore diverse reading materials to expand vocabulary and understanding.
  • Actively note new vocabulary and usage examples for future reference.### Whale Watching Experience
  • Whale watching in Maine is best in April when whales arrive to feed on plankton and fish.
  • A family tour in Portland saw seven whales, dolphins, and seals.
  • The experience remains memorable, with the phrase "This is a day I will never forget."

Practicing English Regularly

  • Observation: Mimic the rhythm and speed of English speakers silently to improve skills.
  • Engage in casual conversations about topics like weather, neighborhoods, and work.
  • Formulate questions about family, interests, and experiences to foster communication.

Making Connections

  • Self-introductions can ease social interactions, encouraging the sharing of personal information.
  • Engage in discussions about personal experiences, hobbies, and opinions with new acquaintances.
  • Ask coworkers about their work and interests during casual breaks to build rapport.

Group Study and Volunteering

  • Establish study groups or English clubs to practice together and engage in regular language exercises.
  • Volunteer within community centers or schools to enhance English skills while contributing positively.

Grammar Importance

  • English grammar aids effective communication; it's essential for both speaking and writing.
  • Good grammar improves fluency and fosters clearer expression of thoughts.
  • Understanding grammar rules enhances independent learning and application in new contexts.
  • Grammar serves as the foundation for constructing sentences and conveying meaning.
  • Correct grammar usage influences first impressions and perceived intelligence.
  • Encouragement of logical thinking skills is enhanced through grammar studies.

Modern Approach to Grammar

  • Grammar should be viewed as an essential tool rather than the sole focus in language learning.
  • Emphasis on conversation over strict grammatical correctness helps reduce pressure and encourages engagement.
  • Learners can embrace conversational grammar while maintaining clarity in communication.

Strategies for Learning Grammar

  • Read enjoyable content to expose oneself to natural grammatical context.
  • Short, frequent study sessions of grammar are more effective than longer, infrequent ones.
  • Applying recently learned grammar in real conversations cements understanding and retention.

Overcoming Challenges in Grammar Learning

  • Emphasizing individual interests during reading fosters a relaxed learning environment.
  • Regular practice in smaller segments enhances language retention and mastery of grammar.
  • Utilizing newly learned grammar concepts in conversation establishes practical usage and reinforces learning.### Language Learning Strategies
  • Focus on mastering one language concept and using it multiple times rather than learning several concepts at once.
  • The aim is to retain at least one concept rather than forget many.
  • Modern language learning prioritizes conversation, reducing pressure and making it enjoyable.
  • Importance of grammar acknowledged, but not regarded as essential for fluency.
  • Avoid overwhelming learners with excessive resources and unrealistic fluency claims.
  • Engaging with enjoyable reading materials and studying in short segments enhances retention.
  • Conversational grammar helps adapt language to contemporary usage rather than outdated forms.

Reported Speech

  • Reported speech conveys what others have said using two types: direct and indirect speech.
  • Direct speech quotes the exact words spoken, while indirect speech paraphrases them.
  • Changes in tense and pronouns are necessary when converting from direct to indirect speech.
  • Distinctions highlight the focus on content in indirect speech vs. exact wording in direct speech.

Punctuation in Reported Speech

  • Commas separate reporting clauses from reported clauses in direct speech.
  • Inverted commas are used for the words being reported.
  • Questions and exclamations in direct speech replace commas with question or exclamation marks.
  • Indirect speech typically does not use commas or question/exclamation marks.

Reporting Verbs

  • 'Say' and 'tell' are the primary verbs used to report speech but have distinct usage rules.
  • 'Say' can omit the listener when reporting statements, while 'tell' always includes an indirect object.
  • A variety of other reporting verbs exist, useful for different contexts and indirect reports (e.g. admit, explain, suggest).

Clauses After Reporting Verbs

  • Certain reporting verbs can be followed by that-clauses, providing more context to the speech reported.
  • The use of "zero-that" is common in informal speech, where 'that' is often omitted after specific verbs.

Practicing Grammar

  • Engaging in conversations improves practical application of grammar.
  • Exercises include identifying adjectives and adverbs in sentences and constructing similar descriptive sentences.
  • Understanding and correctly using gerunds and infinitives is crucial for verb form accuracy.

Phrasal Verbs

  • Phrasal verbs are commonplace in everyday speech but can be confusing; simple verbs should be prioritized to maintain clarity.

Tenses Usage

  • Understanding correct tense usage can be challenging but is essential for clear communication.
  • Practicing with exercises helps reinforce the correct forms and improves fluency in writing and speaking.
  • Keeping a resource like a tenses table can aid in remembering the appropriate tense for different contexts.

Speaking Practice Tips

  • Engaging with multimedia (e.g., YouTube videos) while noting sentence structures can enhance comprehension of tense usage.
  • Apply learned tenses in discussions about real-life situations to solidify understanding and recall.
  • Use narrative tenses for describing past incidents to improve storytelling skills.

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Explore the importance of the English language and learn effective casual communication techniques. This quiz will help you understand language significance and how to use everyday situations to enhance your English skills. Complete the worksheets to showcase your proficiency.

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