ADVANCED / INTERMEDIATE English lesson: Learning and using common expressions.

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Always remember that during the lesson we are continuing our RP practice to be able to improve our pronunciation and diction.

In this lesson we are going to look at ten common expressions used in English.

“COMMON ENGLISH EXPRESSIONS”

we will try to use each expression in a short conversation 90 seconds. After we discuss the meaning of each expression the student will choose one of the three discussion topics in which he or she must use that expression. The conversation should last for 90 seconds.

  • Bite the bullet (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss how to deal with a difficult decision at work or school.
      • Talk about overcoming fear or hesitation in trying something new.
      • Share an experience about confronting a challenging situation head-on.

  • Break the ice (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss ways to start conversations in awkward social settings.
      • Share tips for networking events or first meetings.
      • Plan activities for team-building or group introductions.

  • Burn the midnight oil (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Talk about experiences with late-night studying or working.
      • Discuss the effects of working long hours on health and productivity.
      • Share tips for managing time and avoiding procrastination.

  • Caught between a rock and a hard place (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss times when making a decision was particularly tough.
      • Talk about balancing conflicting responsibilities or priorities.
      • Share advice on resolving dilemmas or making difficult choices.

  • Hit the nail on the head  (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss moments of insightful clarity in conversations or debates.
      • Share times when you or someone else gave the perfect solution to a problem.
      • Talk about the importance of direct communication.

  • Let the cat out of the bag  (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discussing times when a secret was accidentally revealed.
      • Talking about the importance of confidentiality.
      • Sharing strategies for keeping surprises or announcements under wraps.

  • Once in a blue moon  (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss rare events or occurrences in life.
      • Talk about unique experiences or opportunities you’ve had.
      • Share thoughts on appreciating special moments.

  • Piece of cake  (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss tasks or projects that seemed easy to complete.
      • Talk about hobbies or activities that come naturally to you.
      • Share tips on simplifying complex tasks.

  • Spill the beans  (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss moments of confessing or revealing information.
      • Talk about surprise announcements or revelations.
      • Share stories about unexpected truths being uncovered.

  • Take with a grain of salt  (Teacher explains the meaning and gives examples)

    • Conversation Subjects:
      • Discuss skepticism and critical thinking.
      • Talk about times when you doubted the accuracy of information.
      • Share advice on evaluating sources of news and information.

Once a student reaches a certain level of knowledge the most important aspect of using a new language is the ability to use their knowledge in a social or formal setting. Here we have the opportunity to show off our skills.

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