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How to Introduce yourself

About this lesson

Meeting new people while traveling can lead to interesting conversations and connections. In this lesson, you will practice a dialogue that takes place between two travelers at a train station. This conversation includes greetings, sharing personal information, and discussing travel experiences. Understanding how to engage in small talk is essential for building relationships and navigating social situations, especially in a new country. You'll learn key vocabulary and phrases that will help you feel more confident when speaking with others in English.

What you will learn

  • Identify key vocabulary related to travel and introductions.
  • Practice listening for specific information in conversations.
  • Engage in small talk about travel experiences.
  • Use polite expressions when meeting new people.
Instructions

1. Vocabulary

Read the vocabulary list to familiarize yourself with key terms.

2. Watch

Watch the video once without worrying about filling in the gaps.

3. Fill in

Fill in the gaps while watching the video again.

4. Review

Read the full text and watch again to consolidate.

Gap Fill Exercise (Script)
Excuse me, is this the correct to get to Young Station? Yes, it is. It's only three from here. Thank you so much. My pleasure. Where are you from? I'm from . I'm here on . Oh, how neat! How long are you here for? I'll be here for three . I've arrived two days ago. I'm looking for . You're kidding! My husband works for that . It's a small world, isn't it? Yes, it sure is. What do you do? I'm a programmer. Sorry, I didn't catch that. Could you say that ? I'm a programmer, computer programmer. Ah, I see. Very interesting. It's a long from India. You must be really tired. Yes, I'm very, very tired. It's really nice to meet you. I'm , by the way. Oh, it's a pleasure to meet you too. Um, really good luck! Thanks, you too. It's nice to meet you. It's very nice to meet you. It's a pleasure to meet you.
Vocabulary

platform

A raised level surface for train passengers.

The train departed from the platform at 3 PM.

stops

Places where the train or bus halts to pick up or drop off passengers.

There are five stops before we reach the airport.

Mumbai

The capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra.

Mumbai is known for its bustling markets.

business

The activity of making, buying, or selling goods or services.

She is in town for a business meeting.

months

Units of time, typically 30 or 31 days.

There are twelve months in a year.

solutions

Answers to problems or challenges.

We need to find better solutions to these issues.

company

A business organization that sells goods or services.

He works for a technology company.

computer

An electronic device for storing and processing data.

She uses a computer for her work.

again

Once more; another time.

Can you please explain that again?

flight

The act of flying, especially in an airplane.

Their flight from New York was delayed.

Cultural notes

The Importance of Small Talk

In many cultures, small talk is a crucial social skill. It helps break the ice and establish rapport. For non-native speakers, it can be a bit challenging, but practicing these interactions can improve confidence.

Pronunciation focus

In this dialogue, pay attention to the linking of words, such as 'I'm a computer programmer' where the 'I'm' and 'a' blend together. Also, notice the intonation in questions, like 'How long are you here for?' This rising intonation at the end signals a question. Additionally, practice the pronunciation of 'Mumbai' and 'business,' as they can be tricky for non-native speakers. Focus on the initial sounds and stress patterns to improve clarity.

True / False Questions

1. The speaker is traveling for vacation.

Show explanation
Explanation:The speaker mentions they are in town for business.

2. The conversation takes place in Mumbai.

Show explanation
Explanation:The conversation starts in an unspecified location, but the speaker is from Mumbai.

3. The speaker has been in the city for two days.

Show explanation
Explanation:The speaker states they arrived two days ago.

4. The speaker is a doctor.

Show explanation
Explanation:The speaker says they are a computer programmer.

5. The speaker is named Shelley.

Show explanation
Explanation:The speaker introduces themselves as Shelley.
Open Questions

1. What do you think about traveling for business?

Show sample answer
Sample Answer:Traveling for business can be exciting but also tiring because of long flights.

2. How do you feel when you meet someone from your hometown while traveling?

Show sample answer
Sample Answer:It feels great to meet someone from my hometown; it makes me feel connected.

3. Why is it important to make small talk with strangers?

Show sample answer
Sample Answer:Small talk can help create a friendly atmosphere and make new connections.

Key takeaways

  • Small talk is an important skill for making connections.
  • Polite expressions help create a friendly atmosphere.
  • Understanding travel-related vocabulary is essential when navigating new places.

How to study this lesson

To make the most of this lesson, start by listening to the dialogue without looking at the text. Try to catch the main ideas and any familiar words. On your second pass, read along with the transcript to fill in any gaps. When reviewing, focus on the vocabulary and practice using each word in a sentence. Shadow the speakers to improve your pronunciation and fluency, and look up any words you find challenging.

Full Transcript

Transcript adapted by ListenLoop for language learners. Read alongside the video to consolidate comprehension.

Excuse me, is this the correct platform to get to Young Station? Yes, it is. It's only three stops from here. Thank you so much. My pleasure. Where are you from? I'm from Mumbai. I'm here on business. Oh, how neat! How long are you here for? I'll be here for three months. I've arrived two days ago. I'm looking for solutions. You're kidding! My husband works for that company. It's a small world, isn't it? Yes, it sure is. What do you do? I'm a computer programmer. Sorry, I didn't catch that. Could you say that again? I'm a programmer, computer programmer. Ah, I see. Very interesting. It's a long flight from India. You must be really tired. Yes, I'm very, very tired. It's really nice to meet you. I'm Shelley, by the way. Oh, it's a pleasure to meet you too. Um, really good luck! Thanks, you too. It's nice to meet you. It's very nice to meet you. It's a pleasure to meet you.

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