Foundation · Socializing

Keeping the chat going

Your goal: use follow-up questions and reactions to maintain a conversation. The secret to good communication is being a good listener.

1

Survival Phrases

Follow-up questions

  • That's interesting! Why do you say that?
  • What happened next?
  • And you? What do you think?

Showing interest (Reactions)

  • Really? That's great!
  • Oh, I see.
  • Wow, that sounds difficult.
2

Model Dialogue

Person A: I went to a great concert last night.

Person B: Really? That's great! Who did you see?

Person A: A local band called The Rockets. They were amazing.

Person B: Wow, I've heard of them. What kind of music do they play?

Person A: Mostly rock and roll. You should come with me next time!

3

Register: formal vs informal

SituationPolite (Acquaintance)Casual (Friend)
Showing interestThat sounds very interesting.Wow, cool!
Asking moreCould you tell me more about...?And then?
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Typical Mistakes

  • Yes. OK. No. → (Use full sentences and follow-up questions!)
5

Culture Note

  • Active Listening: Making eye contact and nodding your head shows that you are listening. It makes the other person feel more comfortable.
6

Practical Task

  1. Practice. Your friend tells you they just bought a new car. React and ask two follow-up questions.
  • ☐use a reaction word (e.g., Wow!)?
  • ☐ask a follow-up question?