Conversation Gambits - Eric Keller, Sylvia T Warner 1988
1. Asking for Information
1. Opening Gambits
We use opening gambits to help us introduce ideas into the conversation The beginning of a conversation is usually the most difficult part for most people. If we start in a natural and friendly way we will most likely have a positive meeting. If we start 'on the wrong foot', we may be misunderstood
We use opening gambits not only to start a conversation, but also to introduce new ideas during a conversation. So, we may wish to get someone's attention by saying, Excuse me, please, or we may wish to introduce a surprising piece of news with. You may not believe this, but ...
Or we may want to add a small piece of information with, By the my ... Something more serious can be introduced with, IM my view. If you try to use the gambits in this section in the activities as much as you can, you will remember them more easily when you have real conversations outside the classroom.
1. Asking for Information
1. Less likely the assistant will know.
You want to buy the things below. What would you say to the shop assistant9 Use suitable phrases from the list.
THE SHOP ASSISTANT |
YOU |
May I help you? |
electric typewriter — price? (Example Yes, id like to know how much this typewriter costs.) |
What can I do for you? |
bicycle — how many gears? |
Yes? |
desk lamp — what kind of bulb it takes? |
Would you like some help? |
these pyjamas — different colours? |
What would you like? |
stereo receivers — which is the best? |
Can I help you? |
oil — which is the best for my car? |
Are you looking for something? |
batteries — where in the supermarket? |
Do you need help? |
shampoo — for my hair? |
You look lost. |
a carrier bag — how much and where? |
I’d like to know ...
I’m interested in ...
Could you tell me ...?
Do you know ...?
Could you find out ...?
Could I ask ...?
1Do you happen to know ...?
1. Less likely the assistant will know.