English Speaking Topic
- Do you use mobile phone, Skype or landline to make phone call?
- Do you usually receive advertisement on phone?
- Do you think it’s rude to advertise on phone?
Listen to the conversation between Sheeree and Mr Dawson.
Learn more:Â Asking someone to explain
Language Note:
Yes, speaking = Yes, it’s me speaking.
A: Can I talk to John?
B: Yes, speaking./Yes, this is John.
Listen, I’m not interested
You want to stress to the caller that he/she is just wasting your time.
Listen, I’m not interested in your offer. Thanks you.
Learn more:Â Talking about an accident
Useful tip:
1. Using sounds to express yourself
Being an effective speaker means using suitable sounds to express your feelings.
For example:
- “er“, “um“, “mmm” for uncertainty
- a sigh when you are upset or angry
Click on the sentence and listen to the sounds that Mr. Dawson expresses his feelings:
- Er, thanks, but I, um, don’t want to change contract.
- Mmm, no, I’m sorry, I’m really not interested.
- (Sigh) Listen, I’m not interested. Now, thank you for calling, but my answer is no. Goodbye.
These sounds are very useful when you are speaking on the phone.
Learn more:Â 6 expressions to offer help in English
Speaking at a natural pace
An important speaking skill is the ability to speak clearly and at a natural pace – not fast and not slow. This helps you to improve your fluency and it helps people understand you.