A2-Level General English Speaking Activities

Lesson #1: Directions

Outcome: I can give a tour of my residence.

Instructions: Using your voice-recording or video-recording tools, upload a recording of you describing your living space. You don't need to show your space. Simply explain your space in 3-5 minutes.

Lesson #2: Family

Outcome: I can explain changes in the family and give my opinion on them.

Instructions: Explain ways in which the family unit has changed over the past 20 years in your country. Upload your response as a one-minute recording to your voice or video repository.

Lesson #3: Movies

Outcome: I can mention relevant information in a conversation about movies.

Instructions: Respond to three of the following ten questions. In each answer, make some sort of reference to a movie of TV show to support your point. Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.

Lesson #4: Food 

Outcome: I can give suggestions based on a menu and someone’s preferences.

Instructions: From the following menu, pretend to order one item from each section:

Appetizers

1. Garlic Parmesan Fries
2. Caprese Salad
3. Crispy Calamari
4. Bruschetta Trio

Main Courses

1. Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
2. Chicken Alfredo Pasta
3. Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Reduction
4. Vegetarian Lasagna

Sides

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
2. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Butter
3. Grilled Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze
4. Wild Rice Pilaf

Desserts

1. New York Cheesecake with Raspberry Sauce
2. Chocolate Lava Cake
3. Tiramisu
4. Fresh Fruit Platter

Beverages

1. Assorted Soft Drinks
2. Iced Tea (Sweetened/Unsweetened)
3. Lemonade
4. Coffee (Regular/Decaf)

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.

Lesson #5: Work 

Outcome: I can give a short presentation based on a slideshow.

Instructions: Present this slideshow presentation about challenges of learning English. Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.

Lesson #6: Fashion

Outcome: I can give someone compliments on what they are wearing.

Instructions: Check out these royalty-free images. Choose three with fashion which you like. Make a recording in which you compliment the people on what they are wearing. Use this guide on giving compliments in English to help you.

Lesson #7: Tourism

Outcome: I can roleplay a meeting with a travel agent.

Instructions: Choose one options from the following destinations which you would like to travel to:

1. Kyoto, Japan: Experience the charm of ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and stunning gardens in this historic city.

2. Santorini, Greece: Known for its whitewashed buildings with blue domes, breathtaking sunsets, and crystal-clear waters, Santorini is a picture-perfect destination.

3. Cape Town, South Africa: With its stunning coastline, iconic Table Mountain, and diverse cultural scene, Cape Town offers something for every traveler.

4. Machu Picchu, Peru: Explore the ancient ruins of the Incan civilization nestled high in the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a sense of wonder.

5. Reykjavik, Iceland: Discover the land of fire and ice, with its dramatic landscapes, geothermal springs, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights.

6. Banff National Park, Canada: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Canadian Rockies, with pristine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and abundant wildlife.

7. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Wander through the medieval streets of this coastal gem, known for its well-preserved city walls, stunning architecture, and azure waters.

8. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Embark on a safari adventure to witness the incredible wildlife migration and vast savannah landscapes of the Serengeti.

9. Amalfi Coast, Italy: Drive along the winding coastal roads or relax on picturesque beaches while enjoying the stunning scenery and delicious cuisine of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Experience the vibrant energy of Brazil's cultural capital, with its iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer and Copacabana Beach.

11. New Zealand: From the stunning fjords of Milford Sound to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, New Zealand offers a diverse range of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

12. Dubai, UAE: Marvel at the futuristic skyline, indulge in world-class shopping and dining, and experience the unique blend of tradition and modernity in this dynamic city.

13. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Relax in luxury overwater bungalows, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches in this tropical paradise.

14. Barcelona, Spain: Explore the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí, stroll along the bustling streets of Las Ramblas, and indulge in delicious tapas in this vibrant city.

15. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: Discover the unique wildlife and pristine natural beauty of this remote archipelago, where Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution.

Then, imagine you are meeting with a travel agent to arrange a trip to this destination. Brainstorm a list of 5-10 questions that you would ask the agent to help plan a trip to this destination.

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.

Lesson #8: Weather

Outcome: I can give a weather report.

Instructions: Based on the weather in your location this week, record a 1-minute long, weekly weather report. Use this guide to help you. 

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.

Lesson #9: Games

Outcome: I can give a description of a video game. 

Instructions: Research a video game or mobile application that interests you. Then, provide a 2-minute description of it. 

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.

Lesson #10: Media

Outcome: I can summarize information from a press conference.

Instructions: Look up a press conference. It could be sports-related, politics-related, economics-related, etc. Then, summarize the main points in 5 sentences.

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository. 

Lesson #11: Canada

Outcome: I can explain some key differences between Canada and other Western countries.

Instructions: Research the differences between Canada and one other Western country (you may choose the country) based on at least two of the following categories:

1. Culture
2. Geography 
3. Education
4. Society
5. Language

 Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository. 

Lesson #12: Living Spaces

Outcome: I can roleplay hosting an open house.

Instructions: Complete the activity from Lesson #1 again. Give a description of your residence. This time, try to add extra depth and speak for more time (3-4 minutes). 

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository. 

Lesson #13: Electronics

Outcome: I can roleplay being a retail worker in a cell phone shop.

Instructions: Choose from a list of cell phones you see in this Google search. Select one cell phone that you like. Then, imagine you are trying to sell it to someone. Provide five reasons why someone should buy the cell phone. 

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository. 

Lesson #14: Television

Outcome: I can brainstorm a TV or movie script.

Instructions: Write a 15-to-20-line dialogue on one of the following topics:

1. Planning a surprise party
2. Negotiating a business deal
3. Confronting a betrayal
4. Deciding where to go on vacation
5. Arguing about household chores
6. Discussing a secret crush
7. Debating a controversial issue
8. Reuniting after years apart
9. Sharing childhood memories
10. Solving a mystery

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.  

Lesson #15: Sickness and Health

Outcome: I can give recommendations to avoid injury.

Instructions: Choose one of the following types of accidents that cause injury. Then, make a list of 3 recommendations to help someone to avoid accidentally getting injured in this way.

1. Slipping and falling
2. Tripping over objects
3. Cutting themselves while cooking
4. Straining or pulling muscles during physical activity
5. Falling down stairs
6. Accidents while driving or cycling
7. Bumping into furniture or walls
8. Falling from heights (e.g., ladders, chairs)
9. Getting burned (e.g., touching hot surfaces, spilling hot liquids)
10. Overexertion during exercise or manual labor

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.  

Lesson #16: Nature

Outcome: I can explain a beautiful view that I have seen.

Instructions: Think of a beautiful place you have visited. What did it look like? Explain in a one-minute recording.

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.  

Lesson #17: Sports

Outcome: I can use common sports phrases to commentate on a video of a sports match.

Instructions: Choose one of the videos you see on this Youtube search page. Explain what happens in this video. This is a good opportunity for you to build your specialized, sports-related vocabulary. Your description should be 2 minutes in length.

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.   

Lesson #18: Music

Outcome: I can give a summary of my favorite album.

Instructions: Think of your favourite music album. Discuss reasons why it is your favourite album.

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.  

Lesson #19: Clothing

Outcome: I can roleplay being a retail worker and suggest clothing for a customer.

Instructions: Look through the articles in this men's clothes search and/or the articles in this women's clothes search. Now, imagine that you are opening a clothing store. Choose at least three articles of clothing that you would have in your store. Explain your three articles in a recording.

Note that your knowledge of clothing is not necessary for this activity. This is a good opportunity for you to develop your clothing-related vocabulary (eg. adjectives).   

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.  

Lesson #20: Emotions

Outcome: I can express feelings of different people based on pictures.

Instructions: From the collection of pictures below, choose five pictures and explain the expressions that are making in as much detail possible. 

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.   

Lesson #21: Calendars

Outcome: I can politely decline invitations.

Instructions: Leave a 2-minute voice message (like on Whatsapp, Facebook Messenger and Telegram) responding to this letter below in which you politely decline the offer.

Hey Emily,

I hope this letter finds you well! It's been way too long since we last caught up properly, and I've been thinking we should change that ASAP. How about we plan something fun to hang out?

I was thinking we could grab dinner at "Sizzle & Spice" on Friday, April 19th, at 7:00 PM, or if you're up for it, we could go for a hike at "Sunset Trails" on Saturday, April 20th, at 10:00 AM. It would be awesome to spend some quality time together, just like old times.

I know life can get crazy busy, but let's carve out some time to chill and catch up. Plus, I've got some hilarious stories to share that you won't wanna miss!

Let me know what you think and when you're free. I'm flexible, so we can work around your schedule. Can't wait to see you and have a blast together!

Take care and catch up soon,

Samantha

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.  

Lesson #22: History

Outcome: I can give a presentation on the history of my country.

Instructions: In a 3-to-5 minute presentation, discuss your country's history. 

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.  

Lesson #23: Immigration

Outcome: I can explain the process to get a visa in my country.

Instructions: Look up one type of visa in your country. It could be any type of visa (study, work, etc.). Then, explain four or five steps involved in getting that visa.

This is a good opportunity to develop your research skills pertaining to work and immigration: a skill which is necessary for many (but not all) English students.

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.   

Lesson #24: Hobbies

Outcome: I can brainstorm a list of hobby-related questions.

Instructions: Imagine that you are interviewing someone about their hobbies. Brainstorm a list of 5-10 questions that you would ask this person. 

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.   

Lesson #25: Furniture

Outcome: I can discuss desired home improvements.

Instructions: Using "I wish" and "I would like" statements, make a list of 3 things about your residence that you would like to be improved. Also, discuss 3 things that you like about your residence.

Upload your response as a recording to your voice or video repository.