23-24 Nilda Pinto Lesson 1

• Engels
• MBO
• Studiejaar 3

Hello!

Good morning!

Hi!

Hey!

Good evening.

Good afternoon!

Informal

Formal

 Let's talk about introductions

After greeting;

• My name is _____. What’s your name?
  

•  I’m sorry, I don’t remember your name. You are..?

If you want to introduce a person to someone else, you can simply say:

•     Please meet + [name] (formal introduction)
•     Please meet my friend Tom!
•     This is + [name] ( common introduction)
•     This is Tom.

•     Nice to meet you!  (The most common)
•     Pleased to meet you! (Simple and polite)
•     It’s a pleasure!  (Informal, but nice)

What if you have never met the person you are talking to before? Then, after greeting them, it would be polite to introduce yourself and ask for their name. Here’s how:

What is Small talk?

'Small talk' is common in English-speaking countries. Why do you think it is important at the beginning of a conversation with a guest?

1. It is another way of asking for something.
2. It is considered polite.
3. To keep the conversation short.

After you have exchanged names and greeted each other, you may go on to make some “small talk.”

Can you think of a question suitable for small talk with a guest?

Small talk ideas

Things like the weather, current news (but not politics!), sports and entertainment, local sights and activities and hobbies are usually safe conversation starters.

Examples:

How was your day?/ How has your stay been so far?

What kind of activities are you planning during your stay?/ Do you have any fun plans for today?

I noticed the Yankees logo on your T-shirt, are you a baseball fan (too)?

(How) Did you enjoy your meal at the restaurant last night?

Your kids are so well-behaved, you must be very proud of them.

And where are you from? (How) Are you getting used to the weather?

Have you been to see.... yet? It is fascinating/ very interesting/ spectacular/...

Did you hear about the earthquake in Japan? Isn't it just terrible?

The most widespread (common) question is “How are you?”

How would you now answer the question: How are you?

Let's practice!

*In groups of 3

*Pretend that you are meeting each other for the first time

* Pretend that two of you are hotel guests, the 3rd person works on reception

*Start a conversation

*Make sure it lasts approx.3 minutes

*Then switch

* Make sure everyone takes a turn

And remember: LISTENING is just as important as speaking in Small talk!

The teacher walks around and assists where needed.

Tips & Tricks

Guideline

Receptionist: Start with a formal greeting + How are you?

Guest 1 : Introduce yourself ( + your friend)

Guest 2 : Introduce yourself

all 3: nice/ pleased to meet you!

Start small talk:

Ask something/ Start a short conversation

All three persons must take part