Since there are so many expressions in the
English language, it’s wise to start the students off with some
common ones that are used in everyday school conversation.
Here are some situations that use these
expressions:
-
If you don’t turn in your term paper on time,
Professor Burns will call you into his office
for an explanation.
-
I’ll have to get a move on tonight if I want to
finish it by Monday.
-
If you need any help, just call me.
-
How did you score
on your History exam?
-
Not bad, and you?
-
I failed it!
-
Darn, I missed my bus!
-
Don’t worry, I’ll give you a lift home.
-
Thanks, you’re a lifesaver!
-
I finally got a good mark in English.
-
Congratulations!
-
Thanks, I really studied a lot for that exam.
-
That means you deserved it!
-
Did you find the textbook we need for our
English class?
-
Yes, I found a copy at the Second hand Bookshop
in Turin.
-
Was it a good buy?
-
It sure was. I only paid half price.
-
Did you hear that we have a new Science teacher?
-
No, let’s hope for the best!
Let the students underline the expressions
in these situations. Then they can try using them in a
conversation. Here are some verbs they can also use.
To take an exam • to pass an exam • to fail an
exam
To look up information • to do research on….
To study hard • to memorize •
to copy
To do one’s homework assignment
To be absent • To
miss a lesson • To cut a lesson
I would make up cards with the following
situations:
≈Ask for information regarding local
universities and their courses.
≈Ask for information about an exam you must
take.
≈Ask about a
textbook you have to buy for your Science class.
≈Talk about the
grammar taught in your last English lesson.
≈Talk about your favourite subject in
school.
These cards can be used in groups to
stimulate a short conversation . If the students prefer they can write up a
conversation first, then give it orally. Here the teacher is advised to help them out,
going from one group to another, suggesting or answering their
questions.
A Nice Thought:
“The reward for work well done is the
opportunity to do more.”
Jonas Salk