Independent Speaking Task #1

The independent speaking task is a question in which you speak from your own knowledge and experience.

In your response you must demonstrate the ability to:

• State and support an opinion
• Develop your point with details and explanations
• Express words coherently
• Be understood by speaking clearly and fluently 

 
Question:

What new skills would you like to learn?

 Explain why this skill would be important for you to have. Include details and examples in your answer. 

*In a testing situation, TOEFL, you have 15 seconds to prepare and 45 seconds to respond.

Example answer:

A new skill I would like to learn is computer programming. In our 21st century world with smartphones, tablets, and smaller laptops it is becoming increasingly easier to use technology in the classroom and at home for learning and study. Although right now there are many great programs and applications available for students and teachers it takes a lot of time to find materials specific to my students level and needs. Having the skill to program would save me time as I would be able to develop programs and applications based on my own students needs from lessons we do in class and allow them to study at home and prepare for lessons more efficiently. As well as being able to share them with others from around the world.

What do you think? If you would like to share your answer or insights please do so in the comments.

Happy learning!   

Interrogatives

What is an interrogative?

That is an interrogative. When we ask a question 'what, who, where, when, which, whose, how' it is an interrogative question. An interrogative question is responded with a stated answer.

Examples:
Where is the school? It's next to the park.
What's this? It's a computer.
How's your mom? She's doing well.
Which drink is mine? That one.

What is a non-interrogative question?
A question that doesn't use the interrogative question words, or a question that begins with 'is, are, do (present), was, were, did (past)'
Typically a non-interrogative question will usually be answered with 'yes or no' answer.

Examples:
Is that your coat? Yes, it is.
Are you free tonight? No, I'm not.
Did she finish the laundry? Yes, she did.
Was the movie exciting? Not really.


*Take note
Even though we use 'can' to answer yes or no questions it's not a non-interrogative question. 'can' is a modal verb. We'll look at that later.

Any questions please feel free to ask interrogative questions in the comments.

Happy learning!

Vocabulary Building game

Hopefully many English students have a goal to improve their English, maybe just for communication, job, or hobby. But some students like to test their abilities with the TOEIC, IELTS, or here in Japan the Eiken test.

To build vocabulary you should try this interesting game:

First, draw a 3x3 square much like a tic tac toe board.
Then, add in words you would like to learn or improve.
Finally, build sentences with those words.

Here is an example with adjectives:

You can use this game to study by yourself, with a friend, or in a class.

To help you out with this board here are the definitions of these adjectives;

Conservative: resisting change; cautious

Emergency: in sudden need
Fluent: articulate; flowing; able to read and write with ease
Germane: pertinent; relevant; connected
Inventive: creative; new; original
Perfect: flawless; undamaged
Portable: capable of being carried or moved
Regular: normal; standard; recurring
Slight: small of its kind or amount

Feel free to put your sentences in the comments below or post your own game board.

Happy learning!

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