Speaking part 3: Simulated Situation

In this part, you will have to talk about a situation which is illustrated on a sheet of
paper. In this part you should be able to make suggestions, respond to suggestions,
discuss alternatives, make recommendations, and negotiate agreement with your
partner.

Some useful language

Starting the conversation.

Shall I start? ; May I start? ; Should I start? ; Would you like to start?
Making suggestions.
How about…?; Why don’t we…?; What do you think of…?; Maybe we could… How
do you feel about that?...
Giving your opinion.
I think/I don’t think that’s a good idea because… Personally, I think that’s a
terrible/great idea because… In my opinion it would be better to…
Agreeing.
I think you’re right because…, I agree with you because…; That’s true because…,
That’s a good idea…, I totally agree with you…, I couldn’t agree more…
Disagreeing.
I’m afraid I don’t agree with you because…, I’m not sure I agree with you
because…., I’m sorry but I don’t agree with you…, Maybe, but on the other hand…
Discussing alternatives.
Which do you think is best?... Yes, that’s possible… It’s difficult to decide but… I
think this is more….than…
Practice

Situation 1
A 14 year-old boy is leaving his school because his parents have decided to work
in a different country. His friends from school want to give him a present. Talk
together about the different presents and decide which would be best for him.
Situation 2
Someone you know has just moved into a new flat. You want to visit your friend
and take a present. Talk together about the kind of presents you can buy and then
decide what to take. Explain why and discuss your opinions.
Situation 3
A friend asked you to look after her 5-year-old son, Sam, next Saturday afternoon
and you need to decide what you will do with him. Decide together where you will
take Sam. You will only have time to do two things. Explain why and discuss your
opinions.