Conversation Gambits - Eric Keller, Sylvia T Warner 1988

25. Thinking about a Problem
2. Linking Gambits

Conversation is like a game of football. One player can only run with the ball in one direction for a certain time Sooner or later he must change direction or pass the ball to another player. In a typical conversation, we can only talk about the same topic for a short time Then we must move in a different direction, or give someone else a chance.

For example, we can link our own idea to what someone has just said with, But the problem with that is or Not to mention the fact that Sometimes it can be very difficult to say what you mean You want another chance in the conversation, so you say. Let me put it another way Or you may want to disagree, but in a way that will not offend with, That's a good idea but. ..

The main reason for using linking gambits is that your listeners will be more prepared for your arguments and views. They will know from your links whether you are going to agree or disagree If you use links, you will find that you are more easily understood. Remember that a lot of the misunderstanding between people comes from how they say something, not what they say.

25. Thinking about a Problem

Here are two case studies' adapted from real life situations Read through each one, think up a solution, and make a note on a piece of paper.

Speaking

Work in small groups. One student should ask for comments, and the other(s) offer a solution, trying to use the phrases in the list.

Writing

From your first notes, write a paragraph giving your solution

Case 1

Frank has a good job in London working in the Department of the Environment. He has been in the same department since he left university and now he has special responsibility for Historic Buildings If he stays there, he expects to be head of his department within 10 years. Cathy, his wife, has a very well-paid job with an insurance company based in the centre of London. She has been with the same firm for 12 years. The Government has decided to de-centralise Frank's department in order to create more jobs in the North of England The department is moving to Newcastle. Frank and Cathy have two children who are very happy in their schools. They have lots of friends. It would be impossible for Cathy to get such a good job in Newcastle. Frank wants to become head of his department. What should the family do?

Case 2

Yung-ae is from Korea. She's the mother of three children (3,5 and 9). The youngest was born in Britain, but the others were born in Korea. Recently, the two older children have been giving her a lot of trouble When she speaks to them in Korean, they answer her in English and they speak English to each other. When the family goes out together, they pretend that they are not part of it. When they bring friends home, they get very embarrassed when Yung-ae speaks to them in Korean. They have become very cheeky to both their father and their mother What can Yung-ae do?

In a case like this,

In a situation like this,

In this sort of situation,