There are so many subjects we
can introduce our students to, but those that fit in with the
students' everyday life are the best to use.
I believe all the students are interested in
shopping. We can teach them how to do it "in English!"
Here is some expressions they can use.
Do you sell______? Have
you got any______?
Can I see some________? I'd like to see________
How much is that….?
How much does that _________ cost?
What's the price of that________?
Can I see the ______that's in the window?
I take size 12. My size is 12.
I need a larger size. I need a smaller size.
It's too long. It's too short.
I like (don't like) the colour. I like (don't like) the style.
Do you have this________ in another colour?
Does this__________ come in blue?
I'd like to try it on. Where's the Try-On Room, please?
How do I look? It fits fine. I like (don't like) the way it
fits.
Do you have anything on sale?
Is this on sale?
I'll take it. I'll take them.
Can I pay with a credit card?
I'll pay in cash.
I'd like it gift-wrapped. Can you deliver it to this
address?
These are just some of the shopping expressions
that are used.
I think the students remember these expressions best if they
have the opportunity to try them out in situations.
I suggest creating a "Store" by using photos of clothing
and accessories that are mounted on cardboard. These photos
will have the price written on them.
The students will take turns being the salesperson and the
customer.
The salesperson begins by asking, "May I help you?" then
the "customers" can use their imagination and start their
"Shopping spree!"
The teacher can help when other expression are needed.
This is a very useful activity as the students are learning from
this "virtual" store.
Remember the "stores" can vary. For example, a furniture store,
a hardware store, a stationery store etc. Vocabulary should
always be discussed beforehand with the teacher,
A Nice Thought
"Shopping is the fine art of acquiring things you don't need
with money you don't have."