Level: |
Topic: |
Speakers: |
Length: |
easy |
dining out |
man – woman |
1:06 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
Finding good restaurants usually isn’t a problem for language students; ordering at one can be if you don’t know appropriate language expressions. What kinds of questions and expressions do you hear between a customer and a server at a restaurant?
Speak Up, Take a Stand! Instructions for Getting the Conversation Started
These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.
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In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.
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In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?
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For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and self-assess your progress.
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- Eating at a restaurant is more enjoyable than eating at home.
- People should always leave a tip at a restaurant.
- It’s okay to use your phone while eating at a restaurant.
- Sharing food at the table is a good idea.
- You should dress nicely when going to a nice restaurant.
- It’s rude to complain about the food at a restaurant.
- Fast food restaurants don’t need tipping.
- It’s okay to stay and talk for a long time after eating.
- Children should learn restaurant manners at a young age.
- People should not bring outside food into a restaurant.
Idioms
“eat like a bird” = eat small portions
“Don’t worry about spending too much money because she eats like a bird.”
“be stuffed” = be full
“I’m stuffed, and I can’t eat another bite.”
Listening Exercise
A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.
Vocabulary Practice
Do the vocabulary quizzes with the words from the conversation for more practice:
Post-Listening Exercise
Describe one restaurant you enjoy visiting and explain three things you like about it the most. In your discussion, include information on the restaurant’s service, menu items, pricing, and the place’s decor.
Online Investigation
Search the Internet for a restaurant near you, download their menu, and practice playing the roles of a customer and server. Then, discuss the positive and negative points about the restaurant including prices, location, and business hours.