Say each answer aloud before reading the model turn. The six situations come from the guide on collaborative speaking when ideas run out.
Situations
Situation 1. Your partner says, “We should plant trees around the school.” You have no other idea. Extend their idea.
Model turn
“I agree, because trees give shade, which means students can sit outside during hot days. For example, we could put benches under the first row of trees.”
Move shown: adding a reason (because, which means, for example).
Situation 2. Your partner has said only “Maybe a quiz” and stopped. Bring them in without a script.
Model turn
“What makes you say a quiz? Would you rather it be about science or general knowledge?”
Move shown: inviting with a reason question and a choice question.
Situation 3. Your partner says, “We should hold the debate on Friday evening.” You doubt it but have no other idea. Test the idea.
Model turn
“Friday evening could give us more time. What would we do if some students have to go home early? It could work if we finish before six.”
Move shown: testing with a what-if question and a condition.
Situation 4. You want to say “a projector” but cannot recall it. Paraphrase.
Model turn
“We need the machine that shows the slides on the wall, so everyone can see the pictures.”
Move shown: paraphrasing by describing the use.
Situation 5. Your partner says, “I think exercise is important for students.” You want to add something. Use one move.
Model turn
“That is true, because exercise helps students stay alert in class. For example, a short walk between lessons could help them focus.”
Move shown: adding a reason and an example.
Situation 6. Mixed round. Your partner says, “We should start a school magazine.” Go blank, then recover using at least two moves.
Model turn
“A magazine sounds good, because students could share their writing. What makes you think we could finish it each term? Would you rather we start with a small online version or a printed one? I would like a small version, like a one-page newsletter, so we can test it first.”
Moves shown: adding a reason, inviting with a reason and a choice, and paraphrasing (“a one-page newsletter”).
If a situation felt hard
- Situations 1 and 5 test adding a reason to a partner’s idea.
- Situation 2 tests inviting a quiet partner without a script.
- Situation 3 tests disagreeing with an idea, not a person.
- Situation 4 tests paraphrasing when a word goes missing.
Build a timed set with the timed original practice session builder and log your slips in the mistake log. For a teacher who can change the topic and partner reply each time, see online one-to-one English tuition.