Conversation Resources
Small Talk
http://www.eslfast.com/robot/topics/smalltalk/smalltalk.htm
Some of these are really good examples, but some sound very strange to me. Do listen to the audio, though, since it will also give you a range of intonation patterns to practice (again, some more natural-sounding than others).
Small Talk: Who, what, where, when, why?
http://www.englishclub.com/speaking/small-talk_wh.htm
Starts off with the social purpose of small talk and the expectations for how it will unfold. Also provides a list of small talk starters and a self-quiz.
How to Sound Conversational
http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/business-career/public-speaking/how-to-sound-conversational
Tips for speaking more naturally–one of which is don’t write out your text ahead of time!
Purdue Online Writing Lab
Room 226
Heavilon Hall
West Lafayette, IN 47907
765-494-3723
Provides both online and in-person assistance and tutors. They also offer weekly conversation groups and special ESL workshops.
- ESL Conversation Groups
- In-lab ESL software
- Additional resources
523 Russell St.
West Lafayette, IN 47906
765-743-4353
info@intlctr.org
Offers both free and paid classes.