Hello, Tom from SSE Katsura here. Today, I’d like to tell you about “Small Talk” conversations that are happening every day in our classroom and at our school events.
What is Small Talk?
‘Small Talk’ refers to a short conversation on light topics such as weather, food, music or sports. It is a natural part of a conversation between people who don’t know each other too well. It is also a popular part of conversations between colleagues and friends. Frankly speaking, ‘Small Talk’ is a common part of any type of conversation between people who want to have some easy-going talk. Here are few examples: “Did you see the baseball match yesterday?” “Do you think it will rain tomorrow again?” “I found a very good new restaurant in the area. You might want to try it too” “Last night’s TV show was so funny, did you see it?” etc.
When we use Small Talk?
This type of lighthearted talk is often used at the beginning of a longer conversation. It is an easy way to start talking to others and make everyone feel relaxed and comfortable. That might include the speakers themselves. Sometimes, ‘Small Talk’ is a good way for the speaker to calm down and get into the flow of a longer conversation ahead. It’s a warm start of any social interaction. However, ‘Small Talk’ can be also used at the end of a long conversation. Sometimes a short and easy topic after a long or serious talk is a nice way to conclude it on a light note.
Where we use Small Talk?
As you can probably already guess, ‘Small Talk’ is used in all places of our daily life. It is a powerful conversation tool in the office, business meeting or simply in a restaurant with friends. For any place and any occasion ‘Small Talk’ can be used to everyone’s benefit. Therefore we use also use it at our school events and gatherings which are always fun.
Why we practice Small Talk?
When we try to practice natural ways of English conversation we use ‘Small Talk’ at the start of every lesson. Once a student enters the SSE Katsura classroom we can begin our English conversation. Therefore we start by talking about weather, sports or any other student’s interests of the day. It’s a naturally easy going talk and practice at the same time. No stress and no pressure, let’s talk ‘Small Talk’.
Tom, SSE Katsura
That’s true Tom. “What’s new?” is one that I like using with my students at the start of a lesson.
Derek