DIALOGS FOR ELEMENTARY AND INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS

1. PRACTICING DIALOGUES WITH PERSONAL INFORMATION

 James: What's your surname (last name, family name)?
 Fred: My surname (last name, family name) is Smith
 James: What's your first name?
 Fred: My first name is Fred.
 James: Where are you from?
 Fred: I'm from...[place]
 James: What's your job? (or, What do you do for a living?)
 Fred: I'm a.... [occupation]
 James: What's your address?
 Fred: My address is...[state address]
 James: What is your telephone number?
 P2Fred My number is...[state phone number]
 James: How old are you?
 Fred: I am...[state age]
 James: Are you married or single?
 Fred: I am married... single... engaged... divorced... separated
 James: And what are your hobbies?
 Fred: [List hobbies, for example, painting, going windsurfing and watching
TV.]
Key Vocabulary
 Surname, family name, first name
 Numbers
 Address
 Telephone number.
 Married, single, engaged, divorced, separated
 Hobbies
  INFORMAL INTRODUCTION
 TOM: Who’s that woman in a red dress next to Reema?
 PHILL: That’s her friend SANDRA. Didn’t you meet her at the picnic last
month?
 TOM: No, I couldn’t make it to the picnic, my mother was not well at that
time.
 PHILL: Oh! Yes, I forgot that. Then let me introduce you to her now.
SANDRA, this is my friend TOM.
 SANDRA: Hi, TOM. Nice to meet you, hope you are doing fine.
 TOM: Yes, hope you are well too. Would you like to have some coffee?
 SANDRA: Sure, let’s go get and have two cups of espresso.

 Telephonic Dialogues for Everyday Conversations in English

 RALPH: Hi, ANDI, it’s RALPH. How are you? What are your plans for
today?
 ANDI: Oh, hi, RALPH! I was just thinking about giving you a call. Well, I am
free today, what about you?
 RALPH: That’s nice. I was wondering if you’d like to go to a dinner party
tonight
 ANDI: Sure, I’d love to! Where is the party?
 RALPH: It’s in the Park Hotel?
 ANDI: Sounds great!
 RALPH: Ok I’ll pick you up around 8:30. We will probably reach the hall by
9 p.m.
 ANDI: Great! See you then. Bye!
 Vocabulary
 take time off: to stop working in order to do something else
 average day: a normal or typical day in someone's life
 studio: the room(s) in which a movie is made
 shoot some scenes: to record scenes being acted out on a video camera
 script: the lines an actor needs to speak in a movie
 career: the job you have for most of your life
 future projects: the work that you will do in the future
 focus on something: to try to do only one thing at a time
 documentary: a type of film about something that happened in real life
 retire: to stop working permanently

3. PETS
A.Oh hello. Is this your dog?
B.Yes, this is Rex.
A.Hello Rex. What a cute dog. What type of dog is he?
B.He’s a pug.
A.Oh. I should have guessed. He looks quite well-behaved.
B.Actually, he never listens to me. If he wasn’t on the leash, I’m sure he would run
away.
A.Well. He seems friendly anyways. How long have you had him?
B.We got him when he was a puppy. So maybe four years ago. Pugs are quite
small. They are a good size for the city.
A.Aww. That’s great. I’d love to get a dog. We have a cat, but, if I could I would
give it away.
B.Oh. Why’s that? Don’t like cats?
A.It’s not that I don’t like cats. But I don’t like my cat. It is so aggressive. It always
tries to bite me or attack me when I’m sleeping. Maybe it is part-Tiger…
B.I understand.
A.Well. Enjoy your day!  Bye Rex.
B. You as well. Goodbye.

4. GOING TO THE MOVIES

A: Hey What’s your plan tonight?
B: No plans, I think I will relax at home. Work was busy today.
A: I just got home too. Busy day! Do you want to go to the cinema? There’s a
great movie
playing downtown.
B: Hmmm. What time? What movie?
A : Maybe at 7 or 8? It is the new Iron Man movie. It looks amazing!
B: Oh. Marvel. . . Actually I hate Marvel. I never spend money on Marvel movies.
They are too boring.
A: If you want, I will buy you a ticket. My treat.
B: No thanks, I really don’t like Marvel.
A: Okay. I will also buy you popcorn and a drink.
B: I’m really not interested in Iron Man.
A: Okay. Maybe I’ll take you shopping after the movie?
B: Amazing! You are the best boyfriend ever. Pick me up at 7:30.

5. HOLIDAYS
A: So what are you doing during the holidays? Any plans?
B: Yes! Actually I’m going on vacation. I’m going to Thailand for 2 weeks with my
parents.
A: That’s great! Have you visited Thailand before?
B: I’ve been there a few times. But it will be the first time for my parents.
A: Ooh. How do they feel? I remember taking my parents with me to Mexico. It was
a little stressful. Parents are not easy to travel with sometimes.
B: My dad is a nervous traveler but my mom is easy going. As long as they have
Google translate and Google maps, they will be okay. We aren’t doing anything too
crazy – Just relaxing on the beach for a week and then a few days visiting different
cities.
A: That’s great. My parents aren’t so brave. They get nervous leaving the house.
How are the beaches?
B: Beautiful. There are a lot more tourists than before but still breathtaking.
A: I can imagine.
B: The secret is to travel to the smaller towns. Most tourists don’t want to explore. If
you drive an hour or two hours outside the big cities, it’s very quiet.
A: How about the food?
B: Spicy! I’m a little worried my parents won’t be able to eat the food. They both
love seafood but they don’t really like chilies. Thai people love chilies on
everything. . .  So what about you? What’s your plan?
A: I think I will take it easy. We spent way too much money on our last vacation. So
this time we will have a staycation. We will stay at home and do nothing.
B: Those are nice.
A: Yeah, probably we’ll go to some new restaurants and watch a few
movies. Nothing special.
B: Great! Well have a good holiday.
A: You too. Good luck!

AL: What’s eating you?

BILL: What do you mean? I’m fine.
AL: NO, you aren’t. Come on, whatever it is, get it off your chest.
BILL: Well . . . see that woman over there? Her name’s Elizabeth. I’ve been trying
to find a way to meet her for months, and now, here she is. But I don’t have the
guts to walk over there.
AL: Come on, Bill! This is your chance. Just give it a shot. What do you have to
lose?
BILL: She wouldn’t be caught dead with me.
AL: Why do you say that?
BILL: Oh, let’s just skip it, OK? I don’t know why I even told you.
AL: HOW do you know her, anyway?
BILL: We work in the same building.
AL: Well, I think you should just bite the bullet, go over there, and start a
conversation.
BILL: Maybe later.
AL: Why put it off? Who knows? You two might hit it off.
BILL: That’ll be the day.
AL: Why are you so negative all of a sudden? I’ve never seen you like this.
BILL: Maybe you’re right. I should just take the initiative and walk over there. But
what should I say?
AL: NOW you’re talking. Just introduce yourself and start talking about the party
or mention that you’ve seen her at work. She’s bound to recognize you, too.
BILL: Well, maybe. Oh . . . you’re probably right. If I pass up this chance, I’ll never
forgive myself. Well, here I go. Wish me luck!
================
Vocabulary
1. What’s eating (you)? = What’s bothering you?
 2. get something off one’s chest = to reveal something (usually a confession
or complaint) that has been bothering you
3. (not) have the guts (to) = (not) have the courage (to do something)
4. give it a shot = try something; give something a chance to happen (while
knowing you can make a change if it doesn’t work out)
5. (someone) wouldn’t be caught dead (with someone) = someone would
never want to be with someone because of dislike, fear, or shame
6. Skip it! = Let’ s not talk about it anymore. = Forget it!
7. bite the bullet (and do something) = make a decision to do something
after hesitating
8. put something off = postpone, delay until later
9. hit it off = immediately get along with someone very well
10. THAT’LL be the day. = That will never happen to
11. take the initiative (and do something) = take the first step in doing
something
12. be bound to = be likely to; will probably
13. pass up = to miss

6. COOKING TONIGHT
A: Hello.
B: Honey? It’s me . . .
A: Where are you?
B: At the station. I missed my train so I’m going to be late.
A: Oh, that’s too bad. Will you get back in time to pick up the kids?
B: I don’t think so. Can you get them?
A: No problem.
B: Make sure they start their homework.
A: Don’t worry. What time do you think you’ll be home?
B: Probably in about an hour. How was your day?
A: Well, I worked for a few hours at the computer, and then I got sleepy, so I took
a nap.
B: You took a nap! You’re so lucky you work at home. I can’t take a nap in the
office, you know.
A: But I also did the laundry and the dishes. You can’t do those things at the
office.
B: Well, that’s true. Hey, what’s for dinner?
A: Chicken. It’ll be ready when you get home.
B: I can’t wait. I love your chicken.
A:  And I love you. See you around 6:30?
B: I hope so. See ya.
=============
Vocabulary
1. miss (my/the) train/bus = not get on a train or bus because you arrive late
at the station or bus stop
2. get back = arrive at the place you started from
3. in time to (do something) / in time for (something) = before it is too late
4. no problem= say this when someone asks you to do something, and you
are happy to do it
5. make sure = make certain/definite
6. get sleepy= You become tired and then feel like  you can sleep
7. take a nap = sleep for a short time
8. do (the) (my) laundry = wash the clothes
9. do the dishes = wash the dishes
10. get home= arrive at home
11. can’t wait (to/for) = want something good to happen very soon
12. (I) hope so. = I want that to happen

7. TOPIC: GETTING IN SHAPE

Joe: Would you like to play volleyball with us this weekend?

Dave: I’d love to, but I’m really out of shape. I haven’t exercised much all winter.

Joe: That’s okay . None of us are professionals.                          ,

Dave: How often do you play?

Joe: Every other Saturday. We’d rather play more often, but it’s difficult to find

a time when everyone can get together.

Dave: What time do you begin?

Joe: At 9:00. I’ll look forward to seeing you then.

==============================

Vocabulary

 Out of shape: not physically healthy enough

for difficult exercise because you have not
been involved in physical activities
 Every other: not each one in a series, but every two
 Look forward to + V(ing): to feel pleased and excited about something
that is going to happen

============================

Notes

be out of shape: The opposite is be in shape.

Example: He’s in shape because he runs every day.                          ‘

Related idioms are stay in shape and get in shape, would rather: This phrase is
followed by the simple form of the verb.

Example: He would rather read than play with the other children. The contraction

is’d, and the negative is would rather not.

Example: Ken wants to go to the movies, but I’d rather not, look forward to:
These words are often followed by a gerund (verb + ins). Example: I’m looking
forward to having some free time.

8. TALKING ABOUT MOVIES

A: Did you see the last season of Game of Thrones?

B: Yep.. I’ve got to say, I’m a little disappointed. I thought it would be better.
A: Me too. It felt so rushed. They tried to do too much. But.. the special
effects were amazing. I mean.. that dragon scene was epic.. It looked so real.
B: Shocking wasn’t it. They burnt everyone alive.
A: Well. Now that the season is done I need something new to watch. Any
recommendations?
B: Did you see Wu-Tang?
A: What’s that? Wu- Tang? As in the rap group?
B: Yeah. they have a tv series. It’s pretty cool.
A: No way. That’s great. Is it any good?
B: Not bad. It won’t win any awards but it’s interesting to learn about them.
A: It’s a documentary?
B: No. It’s a drama. But it’s based on real life.
A: Okay. So. what’s been your favourite tv show this year?
B: Definitely Mr Robot.
A: Oh. Yeah. It’s quite good isn’t it. It really makes you think.
B: Yep. But probably we should be exercising more. Less tv more exercise.
A:Agreed.
============================
season (n): a group of tv episodes, usually for 1 year.
 Ex: The first season of Friends was very funny.
to make you think – something makes you think about life 
 Ex: That photograph really makes you think.
 Ex: That film really makes you think.
based on + something: usually describes fiction that describes something real
 Ex: There was a film about Mark Zuckerberg and Facebook that was based
on really life.
epic – slang – really amazing 
 Ex: That show was epic. That concert was epic!
documentary (n) – a non-fiction film about real life 
 Ex: I watched a documentary about Tokyo recently. It’s a very interesting
city.
special effects (n) – the computer graphics in a film or tv show
 Ex: The special effects in the new Star Wars movie are very good. But the
acting is terrible.

Present Simple and Present Continuous Tense

The first part of this interview dialogue concerns daily routines and other activities
regularly/still taking place. The present simple tense is used to speak and ask
about daily routines. The following sentences are examples of the present simple
tense.
9. DAILY ROUTINES
I usually get up early and go to the gym.
How often do you travel for work?
She doesn't work from home.
The present continuous tense is used to speak about what is happening at a
specific moment in time, usually at or around the moment that a conversation is
taking place. The following sentences are examples of the present continuous
tense.
I'm studying French for a test right now.
What are you working on this week?
They're getting ready to open the new store.
Part One of the Interview
Pay close attention to the use of the present simple and present continuous tense
in the following interview excerpt.

Interviewer: Thank you for taking some time off from your busy schedule to answer
a few questions about your life!
Tom: It's my pleasure.

Interviewer: Could you tell us about an average day in your life?

Tom: Sure. I get up early, at 7 in the morning, then I have breakfast. After
breakfast, I go to the gym.

Interviewer: Are you studying anything now?

Tom: Yes, I'm learning dialogue for a new film called "The Man About Town".

Interviewer: What do you do in the afternoon?

Tom: First I have lunch, then I go to the studio and shoot some scenes.

Interviewer: Which scene are you working on today?

Tom: I'm acting out a scene about an angry lover.

Interviewer: That's very interesting. What do you do in the evening?

Tom: In the evening, I go home and have dinner and study my scripts.

Interviewer: Do you go out at night?

Tom: Not always, I like going out at weekends.

Present Perfect and Future Tenses

The second section of the interview focuses on the actors' experiences over time.
The present perfect tense is used to speak about an event or experience that has
already happened (from the past) in the present tense. The following sentences
are examples of the present perfect tense.

I've visited many countries throughout the world.

He's made more than fifteen documentaries.
She's worked at that position since 1998.
The future tense is used to talk about the future and uses forms such as "going to"
and "will" to do this. The future tense can be used to reference scheduled events,
predictions, and even conditional events that depend on the occurrence of other
conditions to take place. "Going to" is often used for future plans and "will" is often
used to make predictions. The following sentences are examples of the future
tense.

I'm going to visit my uncle next week.

They're going to open up a new store in Chicago.
I think I'll take a vacation in June but I'm not sure.
She thinks he will get married soon.
Part Two of the Interview
Pay close attention to the use of the present perfect and future tense in the
following interview excerpt.

Interviewer: Let's talk about your career. How many films have you made?
Tom: That's a hard question. I think I've made more than 50 films!

Interviewer: Wow. That's a lot! How many years have you been an actor?
Tom: I've been an actor since I was ten years old. In other words, I've been an
actor for twenty years.
Interviewer: That's impressive. Do you have any future projects?
Tom: Yes, I do. I'm going to focus on making a few documentaries next year.

Interviewer: That sounds great. Do you have any plans beyond that?
Tom: Well, I'm not sure. Maybe I will become a film director and maybe I'll just
retire.

Interviewer: Oh, please don't retire! We love your films!

Tom: That's very kind of you. I'm sure I'll make a few more films.

Interviewer: That's good to hear. Thank you for the interview.

Tom: Thank you.

Practice Creating Your Own Dialogue

Use these sentence pieces to create your own dialogue with a famous actor. Pay
careful attention to the time and context provided in order to choose the correct
tense and don't forget to use correct punctuation and capitalization when writing
your sentences. Try to come up with a few different possibilities for each response.

Interviewer: thank you/interview/know/busy

Actor: welcome/pleasure

Interviewer: work/new/film
Actor: yes/act/in/"Sun on My Face"/month

Interviewer: congratulations/ask/questions/about/life
Actor: yes/any/question

Interviewer: what/do/after/work
Actor: usually/relax/pool

Interviewer: what/do/today
Actor: have/interview/today

Interviewer: where/go/evening
Actor: usually/stay/home

Interviewer: stay/home/this/evening
Actor: no/go/movies

Interviewer: which/movie
Actor: not/say

Sample Solution
Interviewer: Thank you for letting me interview you today. I know how busy you
are.
Actor: You're welcome. It was a pleasure to meet you.

Interviewer: Are you working on any new films these days?

Actor: Yes, I'm acting in "Sun in My Face" this month. It's a great film!

Interviewer: Congratulations! May I ask you some questions about your life?
Actor: Of course you can! I can answer almost any question!

Interviewer: Great. Acting is hard work. What do you like doing after work?
Actor: Yes, it is very hard work. I usually relax by my pool.

Interviewer: What are you doing today for relaxation?

Actor: I'm having an interview today!

Interviewer: That's very funny! Where do you enjoy going in the evening?
Actor: I usually just stay home! I'm boring!

Interviewer: Are you staying home this evening?

Actor: No, actually. This evening I'm going to the movies.

Interviewer: Which movie are you going to see?

Actor: I can't say, it's a secret!

This dialogue focuses on the use of the both the past continuous and past simple.

The past continuous is used to speak about actions that were interrupted in the
past such as: "I was watching TV when you telephoned." Practice the dialogue with
your partner and then practice the use of these two forms on your own beginning
with the question "What where you doing when + past simple". 
10-English Dialogue Practice: "What Were You Doing?"

Betsy: I telephoned you yesterday afternoon but you didn't answer? Where were
you?
Brian: I was in another room when you called. I didn't hear the phone ringing until
it was too late.
Betsy: What were you working on?
Brian: I was photocopying a report that I needed to send to a client. What were
you doing when you telephoned?
Betsy: I was looking for Tom and couldn't find him. Do you know where he was?
Brian: Tom was driving to a meeting.
Betsy: Oh, I see. What did you do yesterday?
Brian: I met the representatives from Driver's in the morning. In the afternoon, I
worked on the report and was just finishing when you telephoned. What did you do
Betsy: Well, at 9 I had a meeting with Ms. Anderson. After that, I did some
research.
Brian: Sounds like a boring day!
Betsy: Yes, I don't really like doing research. But it needs to be done.
Brian: I agree with you on that—no research,no business!
Betsy: Tell me about the report. What do you think of it?
Brian: I think the report is a good. Tom believes it's good, too.
Betsy: I know that every report you write is excellent.
Brian: Thank you Betsy, you are always a good friend!

11.Speaking about objects in your office means that you'll need to understand the
use of 'THERE IS' AND 'THERE ARE', as well as 'any' or 'some' for asking and
answering questions about those objects. You'll also practice using prepositions of
place to describe where the objects in your office are located. Practice the
dialogue with your partner and then continue discussing your own office or school.
What's in Your Office?
David: I've got a new office now…
Maria: That's great! Congratulations.
David: I'll need a desk and some cabinets. How many cabinets are there in your
office?
Maria: I think there are four cabinets in my office.
David: And do you have any furniture in your office? I mean other than the chair at
your desk.
Maria: Oh yes, I've got a sofa and two comfortable armchairs.
David: Are there any tables in your office?
Maria: Yes, I've got a table in front of the sofa.
David: Is there a computer in your office?
Maria: Oh yes, I keep a laptop on my desk next to the phone.
David: Are there any flowers or plants in your office?
Maria: Yes, there are a few plants near the window.
David: Where's your sofa?
Maria: The sofa is in front of the window, between the two armchairs.
David: Thanks a lot for your help, Maria. This gives me a good idea of how to
arrange my office.
Maria: My pleasure. Good luck with your decorating!

 n this dialogue, you will practice speaking about daily routines, as well as
what is happening around the present moment in time. Notice that
the present simple is used to speak about daily routines, and the present
continuous is used to speak about what is happening around the current
moment in time. Practice the dialogue with your partner and then interview
each other focusing on changing between a discussion of daily routines and
what you are currently working on.

 A Busy Day
 (two friends speaking in a park when they meet each other jogging)
 Barbara: Hi, Katherine, how are you today?
Katherine: I'm great and you?
 Barbara: VERY busy! I'm jogging now, but later I have to do a lot!
Katherine: What do you have to do?
 Barbara: Well, first of all, I have to do the shopping. We don't have anything
to eat at home.
Katherine: ... and then?
 Barbara: Little Johnny has a basketball game this afternoon. I'm driving him
to the game.
Katherine: Oh, how is his team doing?
 Barbara: They're doing very well. Next week, they're traveling to Toronto for
a tournament.
Katherine: That's impressive.
 Barbara: Well, Johnny likes playing basketball. I'm happy he's enjoying it.
What are you doing today?
Katherine: I'm not doing much. I'm meeting some friends for lunch, but,
other than that, I don't have much to do today.
 Barbara: You're so lucky!
Katherine: No, you're the lucky one. I'd like to have so many things to do.
 Practice Can/Be Able To

 Practice 'can' and 'be able to' with this role play. Once you've finished, make
up some of your own dialogues and practice with a classmate or a friend. 
 Peter: Hi Janet. Can you help me for a moment?
Janet: Sure, what's up?
 Peter: I'm not able to understand this math problem. 
Janet: Really. I think I can help, but I'm not that good at math.
 Peter: You were able to all the problems last semester, weren't you?
Janet: Yes, that's right, but I can't do everything. Let me see. 
 Peter: Here you go.
Janet: Interesting, are you sure you're not able to do this?
 Peter: Yes, that's why I'm asking for help!
Janet: OK. After I explain this, you'll be able to do without any problems.
 Peter: Great. So what's the answer?!
Janet: Don't be in a hurry. Can I have a few minutes to think?
 Peter: Of course you can. Sorry. 
Janet: No problem. 

 In this dialogue, you will practice speaking about daily routines by focusing
on cooking. Notice that the present simple is used to speak about daily
routines. Adverbs of frequency tell us how often we do something and
include 'usually', 'sometimes', 'never', etc.. Practice the dialogue with your
partner and then interview each other about how you do certain tasks you
enjoy.

 Cooking
 (At a friend's house)
 Carol: This is a lovely house!
Martha: Thank you. Carol, we call it home.
 Carol: It's very close to work, isn't it?
Martha: Yes, it is. I always walk to work - even when it rains!
 Carol: I usually take the bus. It takes so long!
Martha: How long does it take?
 Carol: Oh, it takes about 20 minutes.
Martha: That is a long time. Well, have some cake.
 Carol: (taking a bite of some cake) this is delicious! Do you bake all of your
own cakes?
Martha: Yes, I usually bake something at the weekend. I like having sweets
in the house.
 Carol: You're a wonderful cook!
Martha: Thank you, it's nothing really.
 Carol: I never cook. I'm just hopeless. My husband, David, usually does all
the cooking.
Martha: Do you often go out to eat?
 Carol: Yes, when he doesn't have time to cook, we go out to eat
somewhere.
Martha: There are some wonderful restaurants in the city.
 Carol: Too many! You can eat at a different restaurant every day. Monday -
Chinese, Tuesday - Italian, Wednesday - Mexican, on and on ...
  Check your understanding with this multiple choice comprehension quiz.

 More Dialogue Practice - Includes level and target structures/language

functions for each dialogue.

TRAVEL

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How many places have you traveled to?

I’ve visited all the provinces throughout my country.

Who do you usually go with?

I often go with my family, sometimes with my best friends.

What’s your favorite tourist attraction?

That would be Venice city in Italy. I love riding the gondola along the canals while
watching Italian people live their daily lives.

Have you ever been abroad?

Yes, I have. I came to Italy last year for a business trip.

What language do you use when traveling?

English, but sometimes I have to use body language since not all people are good
at English.
What do you usually do during your trip?

I often go sightseeing, take pictures, mingle with the local people and sample the
local cuisine.

What do you do to prepare for your trip?

Before the trip, I search for information about the location, weather, famous tourist
attractions, transportation, local cuisine and prices on the internet.

What do you usually bring when you travel?

I usually pack my suitcase with some necessary items such as clothes, medicine,
food, a map, and a camera.

Do you prefer traveling by car, train or plane?

I prefer planes although it can be a little expensive. Planes are much faster than
any other mode of transport.

Do you prefer traveling alone or joining a guided tour?

I love backpacking with my friends who share the same

11. ACCIDENT
 
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Have you ever been in any traffic accident?

Yes, three years ago.
What happened?
I was hit by a car while crossing the road.
How did you feel then?
I felt really terrible because of my injuries.
Who was involved in the accident?
The car driver, his family (inside the car), and me.
Did the insurance company pay for repair service?
I was walking so I did not require any car repair services.
Did you need a lawyer?
I hurt my lower back just a little, so I didn’t call a lawyer.
Did you report the issue to the police?
No, we didn’t want to get the police involved.
Were you sent to the hospital after the accident?
No, the injury wasn’t really serious.
Do you have a driving license?
Yes, I do. I always keep it in my purse.
Why should people obey traffic regulations?
To protect themselves and others. The best ways are to wear a helmet, wait
for traffic lights and stay in the appropriate vehicle/pedestrian lanes.

12. FESTIVAL
 
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How many popular festivals are there in your country?

There are many: New Year’s day, Martin Luther King day, Valentine’s day,
St. Patrick day, Easter, etc.
What is the most important festival in your country?
I believe that New Year’s day is the most important one since it’s a chance
for family reunion and parties. People gather together to welcome the new
year.
When does it take place?
It occurs on January 1st.
Where’s the festival celebrated?
The New Year’s day is celebrated all over the country. Each family has its
own way to celebrate the day.
What do people do to prepare for the festival?
Before New Year’ day, people go shopping for food and drinks, repair the
house or put up decor.
Who can join the festival?
It’s a day for everybody.
What do people do in the festival?
On New Year’ Eve, people have a party with traditional food and drinks.
After that, they may visit friends or relatives, go to the movies or watch
sports.
What’s special about that festival?
It marks the end of a year and celebrates a new year. People believe that the
things they do on the first day will bring good luck and prosperity to them
during the whole year.
Is the festival culturally related?
Sure, the festival is an integral part of culture.
Why is a festival important?
It adds structure to our social lives and connects us with our families and
backgrounds.
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13. A Coffee Shop

 

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What’s your favorite coffee shop?

My favorite one is The Coffee House, a local coffee shop in my
neighborhood. 
Where is it?
It’s 500 m far from my house. 
How often do you visit that coffee shop?
Every weekend when I hang out with my friends. The Coffee House is always
our first choice. 
Who do you go with?
I meet my friends there. They love the place, too. 
What drinks does it serve?
Many kinds: coffee, chocolate, cocktail, smoothie, tea, juice of various tastes.
My favorite one is hot chocolate. 
Are the waiters there friendly?
Yes, they couldn’t be nicer. 
Do you like the decorations of that coffee shop?
Yes, I love it. I fancy the green space they put in each corner of the room. 
When was the last time you went there?
I last went there last Monday. 
What is special about that coffee shop?
The drinks are what make them different. People are just addicted to full-
bodied coffee and chocolate there. 
How do you know about that coffee shop?
My cousin recommended it to me and I did give it a try.
Daily English Conversation Practice by Topic – Lesson List
 14. WEATHER
 
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What’s the weather like in your country?

Well, there are 4 seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, which vary
considerably in characteristics.
What kind of weather do you like?
I enjoy hot weather. There are more things to do when it’s sunny. I love
swimming and sunbathing.
What months have the best weather in your country?
I believe it depends. For me, the best weather is from June to August when
it’s warm across the country.
Do you like it when it rains?
Not at all. I hate raining.
How does the weather affect your feelings?
I usually have a bad mood when it rains. The rain reminds me of sad
memories.
How has the weather changed recently?
Due to global warming, the weather has become more and more
unpredictable. It’s boiling hot in summer and freezing cold on winter days.
Do you usually watch the weather forecast?
No, not very often.
What’s your favorite season? Why?
Let’s see. I love spring when trees and flowers blossom.
What do you like to do when it’s windy?
When it’s windy, I like flying a kite with my friends. That’s interesting.
Basic English Speaking Practice by Topic – Full Lesson List
 

15. A wedding
 
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Have you ever attended someone’s wedding? Who was he/she?

Yes, a lot, but the most memorable one is my best friends.
Who went with you?
I went with one of my classmates.
Where was the wedding organized?
It was held in a restaurant downtown.
What did people do in the wedding?
They enjoyed wedding feast, sang and danced together after giving the
couple best wishes of an ever-lasting happiness.
What did the bride and groom wear?
The bride wore a white wedding gown while the groom wore a black suit and
tie.
What was the most interesting ritual in the wedding?
Exchanging rings is the ritual I’m quite interested in.
Are weddings a special event of one’s life in your country?
Yes, along with birthdays.
Do people in your country get married early?
Not really. The average age to get married for women is 27 and for men is 29.
What is the ideal age to get married in your opinion?
Well. 27 would be my ideal age. Women are most charming and mature at
that age, I guess.
How has wedding changed recently?
The most noticeable change is the reduce of rituals in a wedding. There used
to be more steps in weddings years ago than there are now.
Daily English Conversation Practice by Topic – Lesson List

16. Fashion
 
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Are you a big fan of fashion?

Yes, I am. I believe every girl is crazy about fashion.
What style do you choose to wear?
Well, my favorite piece of clothes is a dress. Depending on the situation, I
choose a formal or informal dress to wear.
Do you enjoy shopping for clothes?
Yes, I’m a shopaholic, actually.
Is there any fashion icon who you want to wear the same?
Yes, I really admire Taylor Swift and wish to wear like her.
Do you create your own fashion style?
No, I’m not a fashionista, so most of the time I just follow the fashion trend.
Do you prefer vintage or modern style? Why?
Honestly, I love vintage style. Wearing classic clothes makes me feel like I’m
special.
Have you ever attended in any fashion show?
Not in real life. I just watch them on TV.
What do people think about your fashion style?
I don’t know exactly, and I don’t care much about it. I just wear what makes
me comfortable and confident.
Are you going to change your fashion style in the future?
Well, I can’t tell. Maybe fashion is changeable, and I am, too.
Is fashion important to people?
Yes, in my opinion. Fashion can partly reveal who you are.
Daily English Conversation Practice by Topic – Lesson List

17. A Celebrity
 
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Who is a famous celebrity that you admire?

Well, I’m a big fan of Miley Ray Cyrus, an American singer, songwriter, and actress.
Why do you admire her?
Well, she’s at my age, but what she’s achieved is acknowledged worldwide.
What is special about her?
I just fall in love with her beautiful voice. I can’t stop listening to her songs again and
again. My favorite songs of hers are Jolene and Wrecking Ball.
Is she well-known worldwide?
Yes, she is. She’s a teen idol.
Do you see her on TV or in reality?
Most of the time I see her on TV.
Do your friends love her, too?
Yes, they do. We usually enjoy her songs, movies together.
Do you want to be like her?
Yes, being a well-known singer is my dream.
Daily English Conversation Practice by Topic – Lesson List
18. A HOTEL
 

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What is your favorite hotel? Where is it located?

It’s the Sheraton, a five-star hotel located in Saigon, Vietnam.
How do you know that hotel?
Before coming to Vietnam for traveling, I searched on the Internet. It’s one of the
best hotels in Vietnam.
Why do you choose to stay in that particular hotel?
I like the architecture there, and online all the reviews about the hotel are positive.
Is it by the beach?
No, Saigon is not a beach-side city.
Does it attract many tourists?
Yes, I guess. When I stayed there, it was completely booked.
What type of room did you stay in and what facilities did you get from the hotel?
I stayed in a double-bed room. The room is equipped with air-conditioner, a flat-
screen TV, wardrobe, etc.
What do you like about that hotel?
A gymnasium, swimming pool, and BBQ area are available. I also love the green
space surrounding the hotel.
Are all the staff friendly and helpful?
Yes, definitely. They all are professional.
How much does it cost a night?
It costs me around $250/night.
Do you recommend that hotel to friends?
Yes, if they come to Vietnam. I love everything there.

19. Clothing
 
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What is your favorite item of clothing?
My favorite one is a maxi dress. I wear it when hanging out with my friends
or attending parties.
When did you buy it?
My friend gave it to me as a birthday present when I turned to 21.
Where did you buy it?
I had no idea where my close friend bought it.
What color is it?
It’s blue – my favorite color.
Was it expensive?
Yes, I guessed.
Why do you like it?
Well, I’m kind of short and plump, so it’s hard to find a piece of clothing that
fits me perfectly, but that one does. I also love the color and style.
Do clothes help to build your personal brand?
Yes, I agree with it to some extent. I still believe that personal brand can be
built from the inside rather than the outside. However, what you wear also
plays an important role in saying who you are.
Have you seen anybody wearing unusual clothes?
Yes, I have, but I don’t think any fashion style is weird. I believe everybody
has their own taste of fashion.
How has your fashion style changed recently?
I always wore formal shirt and trousers whenever hanging out years ago, but
now I change into casuals like jeans and T-shirt.
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20, MUSIC
 
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What kind of music do you like?

I’m crazy about Pop music.
Is that the kind of music preferred in your country?
It varies. Normally the youth enjoy Rock and Pop while middle-aged citizens
prefer country music.
Who is your favorite singer?
I’m a big fan of Miley Cyrus, a talented US singer, songwriter, and actress.
What piece of music do you like? Who sang that song?
My favorite song is Jolene, sung by Miley Cyrus.
How much time a day do you spend listening to music?
I usually listen to music all day with an MP3 player.
Do you feel relaxed listening to music?
Sure. I feel like there are no more worries in the world.
Why is music important to us?
Music has the power of beautifying our life.
Do you usually go to bars or clubs?
Not often. I sometimes go there on weekends.
What do you think about the teenagers’ music style?
Teenagers tend to choose loud and fast music like Rock or Rap. Everyone has
their own taste of music though.
Have you ever thought of forming a music band?
No, I don’t have any talent for music.
Daily English Conversation Practice by Topic – Lesson List