When you start learning a new language, one of the best ways to improve is to talk to people who are native or fluent speakers.

A few months back we looked at moving out of your comfort zone to do exactly that; to start using what you have learnt in class and putting it to use, be it in a restaurant, a supermarket, at a friend’s party etc.

When you are just beginning, your vocabulary will be quite limited and for some students, this might prevent them from talking to others.

You may think, ‘what will I talk about when my language level is just at the beginner’s stage? What will I say?’

That is why visiting a specific location can work well: in a restaurant you can use simple greetings and order food; at the supermarket you can do the same, or ask for directions to locate some goods; and at a friend’s party you can use your new vocabulary to talk about the weather, your family or better still, ask simple questions that allow you to listen and learn.

By Vicki