Tips for Small Talk in English
ESL Lesson PlansTips for Small Talk in English

Tips for Small Talk in English

This ESL lesson plan helps adults improve their speaking skills through engaging group activities. Over 60 minutes, learners explore the art of small talk by analyzing dialogues, brainstorming suitable topics, and practicing real-life conversations. Designed for A2-level students, the lesson enhances confidence in using common expressions and phrases for casual interactions.

Skills

  • Can participate in short conversations in routine contexts on topics of interest.
  • Can express how they feel in simple terms, and express thanks.
Online Interactive
Based on CEFR
Printable PDF
1

Read the dialogues. Where can they happen and between whom? Complete each box with one of the options.

01:16
Neighbors
Coworkers
the market
New friends
office
front yard
chatting in the
Sarah: Hi, Mark. How was your weekend?
Mark: Hey, Sarah. It was great. What about you?
Sarah: I just relaxed at home. Sometimes it's nice not to have any plans, you know?
Mark: Definitely. So, how's the new project going for you?
Sarah: The project is challenging but interesting. I'm learning a lot.
Mark: That's great. Good luck with it.
Sarah: Thanks!
Mark: Have a good day, Sarah.
Sarah: You too, Mark. See you later.
talking in the
Amy: Hi there!
Mr. Brown: Hello Amy, how are you?
Amy: I am good, thanks! The weather's so lovely this week, isn't it?
Mr. Brown: Perfect for a barbecue.
Amy: We were planning to have one this weekend too. What about you and Mrs. Brown?
Mr. Brown: We're going away for the weekend.
Amy: Where are you going?
Mr. Brown: To the lake house. We love spending time by the water.
Amy: Well, have a great vacation, Mr. Brown!
Mr. Brown: Thank you, Amy. You have a great weekend too!
having a chat at
Emily: Hi, Mary!
Mary: Hello! How are you today?
Emily: I'm good. I came to get veggies for dinner tonight.
Mary: What are you cooking?
Emily: Veggie soup. And you?
Mary: Mashed potatoes for my husband. Got some carrots too.
Emily: Try the fresh ones from this local farm. They're tasty.
Mary: Thanks! Did you hear about tomorrow's weather?
Emily: Rain in the afternoon.
Mary: Oh no, we wanted a barbecue.
Emily: Maybe it will stop by then.
Mary: Hope so. Have a nice evening, Emily.
Emily: You too, Mary. Bye!
2

Discuss in pairs:

3

Complete these conversations with the words provided:

4

In pairs, come up with a list of questions for small talk.

5

Mingling activity: Ask your group mates the questions you prepared and answer their questions.

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