English Conversation

Synopsis

Gain the skills needed to converse in English with confidence!

Conversing comfortably in a new language can seem like a daunting task. This accessible guide will help you build the skills to communicate in English with confidence. The book is packed with crystal-clear explanations, numerous realistic examples, and dozens of engaging exercises to help you hone your conversation skills. You'll learn how to introduce yourself, make appointments, strike up conversations, and much more.

Practice Makes Perfect: English Conversation is organized around 12 units that present specific conversational situations and common, everyday scenarios. Each unit offers helpful instructions on correct pronunciation, grammar, syntax, and word usage. The exclusive McGraw-Hill Language app features streaming audio recordings of all dialogues in the book plus the answers to more than 100 exercises.

Practice Makes Perfect: English Conversation will help you:

 Engage in dialogues that illustrate practical conversations
 Expand your English vocabulary
 Get clarification of new concepts with numerous realistic examples
 Reinforce your new conversational skills through extensive exercises
 Test your understanding of key themes in the book
 Improve your pronunciation through audio dialogs and exercises, online and via the McGraw-Hill Language app

Summary

Chapter 1: Getting Started

* Introduction to the importance of conversation in language learning.
* Establishing rapport and building trust through body language, eye contact, and active listening.
* Real example: Meet and greet a new acquaintance at a social event:
> You: "Hi, I'm [Your Name]. Nice to meet you."
> Acquaintance: "It's a pleasure. I'm [Acquaintance's Name]."

Chapter 2: Small Talk and Chit Chat

* Making conversation about general topics to warm up and create a relaxed atmosphere.
* Discussing weather, current events, hobbies, and shared experiences.
* Real example: Chat with a colleague about the weekend:
> You: "Did you have a nice weekend?"
> Colleague: "Yes, I went to the park with my family and had a picnic."

Chapter 3: Asking Questions and Responding

* Initiating conversations by asking open-ended questions that invite elaboration.
* Practicing active listening and responding appropriately to others' responses.
* Real example: Ask your friend about their recent trip:
> You: "How was your trip to Paris?"
> Friend: "It was amazing! The food was delicious, and the Eiffel Tower was stunning."

Chapter 4: Expressing Opinions and Giving Feedback

* Communicating personal views and preferences in a respectful and clear manner.
* Providing constructive feedback and responding to others' opinions without interrupting.
* Real example: Share your thoughts on a new movie:
> You: "I really enjoyed the movie. The plot was engaging, and the acting was excellent."
> Friend: "I agree. It was one of the best movies I've seen this year."

Chapter 5: Telling Stories and Sharing Experiences

* Narrating past events and personal anecdotes to connect with others.
* Using vivid language and engaging storytelling techniques to capture attention.
* Real example: Describe your favorite travel experience:
> You: "My most unforgettable travel experience was a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. The coral reefs were vibrant and teeming with marine life, and I even got to swim with a sea turtle."

Chapter 6: Dealing with Difficult Conversations

* Managing disagreements, apologies, and sensitive topics in a constructive and respectful manner.
* Maintaining composure and using appropriate language in challenging situations.
* Real example: Apologize for an unintentional offense:
> You: "I'm so sorry if I offended you. I didn't mean to say anything hurtful."
> Friend: "No worries. I understand."