Say, Talk, or Tell
Title: Say, Talk, or Tell
Author: Rita Simpson
Date: January, 2003
Summary: This fill in the blank activity uses MICASE examples to help students understand correct usage and context of each verb. Then common idioms using these verbs are introduced and explained.
Download the PDF: Say, Talk, or Tell
A few students are complaining about a homework assignment. Read their dialogue and answer questions.
This lesson gives you guidelines on how to give, understand, and follow verbal instructions
Learn the most common phrases used to give advice or suggestions.
Learn how to politely present your opinions in English so they aren’t too strong (especially in academic settings)
Learn how to use the verbs say, talk and tell correctly, and look at common idioms where they appear.
Teach your students over 40 idiomatic phrases and expressions with great contextual examples from MICASE.
Guidance for professionally discussing outside sources (news articles, TV programs, etc) in a conversation.
Help students identify phrases that indicate that what the speaker is saying should not to be taken too seriously or literally.
Identify different parts of a conversation (small talk, informal speech) and answer questions about what you’ve heard.
A common metaphor for academic pursuits is travel. See if you can figure out the difference between the literal and figurative uses of these words and phrases relating to travel.
Learn how to politely introduce a speaker by listening to real recordings of people introducing speakers on a university campus.
Learn how to ask polite questions, and how to adjust your tone depending on the situation.