Conversation Gambits - Eric Keller, Sylvia T Warner 1988
2.Breaking in
1. Opening Gambits
Often we have to approach strangers to ask them for some information or help.
Two to four students volunteer to be the questioners. They should think up some things to ask about (ideas below)
The rest of the class stand up and form small groups (3/4) and talk about anything you want. (hobby? friend? tomorrow? holiday?)
The volunteers then approach the groups and 'break in' to ask their questions. Try to use phrases from the list.
When each of the volunteers has been to each of the groups, everybody sits down again. The volunteers then report the answers they got.
Examples
Excuse me, can you tell me how to get to the cafeteria?
May 1 interrupt for a moment? I'd like to know how to get to the cafeteria.
Some things to ask about
How to get to the nearest supermarket/bus stop/telephone box.
Where you can get change/a haircut/stamps.
Where you could find a good, but not too expensive restaurant.
Where to get advice on buying a computer/new car.
1Excuse me
Sorry
Excuse me for interrupting, but...
May I interrupt for a moment?
... 2please
3Certainly
1. Used to attract attention.
2. Most common at the end of a request.
3. The friendly way to say Yes.