A joint conclusion has three parts: summarise both views, propose a decision, and check that your partner agrees. The check question is what turns a proposal into a shared decision.
This lesson finishes the collaborative speaking chapter after responding and disagreeing politely.
What does a closing turn look like?
Use the pattern summarise, propose, check.
| Part | Example |
|---|---|
| Summarise | So you prefer a book because it lasts, and I prefer a plant because it is cheaper. |
| Propose | Maybe we could buy a small plant and add a card that names a book we recommend? |
| Check | Does that sound fair to you? |
The summary proves you listened. The proposal moves the discussion forward, and the check gives your partner the final say.
Worked example: a class gift
The task: two students choose a gift for their teacher.
- Lina: A book would be a lasting gift, and the teacher loves reading.
- Wei: I prefer a plant, because it is cheaper and we can all sign the pot.
- Lina: A plant is easier to share, but I am worried it might not survive on a busy desk.
- Wei: That is fair. A small hardy plant may be fine.
Now Lina’s closing turn: “So the plant is cheaper and easy to share, and a hardy one should survive on a busy desk. What if we buy one and add a book voucher if the budget allows? Does that work for you, Wei?”
She sums up both views, proposes a blend of the two gifts, and ends with a question.
The mistake that costs marks
The slip is to decide alone. Compare the two closings.
| Version | Closing |
|---|---|
| Wrong | We will choose the plant. |
| Right | So we both like the plant idea. Shall we choose it, and add a card? |
The first closes the conversation and silences your partner. The second includes them in the final choice.
Check yourself
Two students have discussed a class outing. One prefers the park because it is free, and the other prefers the aquarium because it is educational. Write a closing turn for one of them.
Answer
A good answer: “So the park is free and the aquarium is educational. What if we go to the park and bring a short quiz about animals and plants? Would that suit you?”
It summarises both views, proposes a compromise, and ends with a check question.
What to study next
Test all four moves on the collaborative speaking practice set. You can also build a timed set with the timed original practice session builder.
If you want a teacher to give you unpredictable discussions to close, see online one-to-one English tuition.