Conversation Topics

Listen carefully to the first line of the conversation. The first line of the conversation often contains the main idea, subject, or topic of the conversation, and you will often be asked to answer such questions.

• TRUE

• FALSE

A helpful strategy is to look briefly at the answers in the test book, before you actually hear the conversations on the recording, and try to determine the topics of the conversations that you will hear.

• Anticipating the topics

• Anticipating the questions

Since the first one or two sentences generally give the topic, you should be asking yourself what the topic is while you are listening carefully to the first part of the conversation.

• Determine the topic.

• Draw conclusions about who, what, when, where.

• Listen for answer in order.

While you are looking at the answers, you should try to do the following:

• Anticipate the topics of the conversations you will hear.

• Anticipate the questions for each of the groups of answers.

You should be thinking the following thoughts

Who is talking?

When does the conversation probably take place?

Where does the conversation probably take place?

What is the source of information for the conversation?

• Determine the topic.

• Draw conclusions about who, what, when, where.

• Listen for answer in order.

What is a good way for Arjun to start a conversation with Abigail?

• Discuss a recent news event.

• Ask for their opinion on a controversial topic.

• Start with a compliment about their appearance.

• Ask an open-ended question.

How can you make a conversation more interesting?

• Ask open-ended questions and share personal stories.

• Only talk about yourself

• Stick to small talk topics

• Avoid asking questions

What types of questions can you ask to keep a conversation going?

• Request a summary of their day

• Ask yes or no questions

• Inquire about their favorite color

• Ask open-ended questions, follow-up questions, and inquire about interests.

Why is it important to listen when someone else is talking?

• It is important to listen to show respect, foster understanding, and enhance communication.

• It is important to listen only when you agree with the speaker.

• Listening is not necessary if you already know the topic.

• Listening can lead to misunderstandings and confusion.

What should you do if you run out of things to say?

• Ask open-ended questions or share a related story.

• Repeat what the other person just said

• Change the subject abruptly

• Stay silent and avoid eye contact