Lecture Notes: English Learning Strategies

Introduction

• Resource Offer: Free ebook titled "Core 2000w" packed with essential expressions for daily use.
• Platform: englishclass101.com
• Series: English in 3 minutes - Fastest, easiest, most fun way to learn English.

Lesson Overview

• Focus: Asking and answering common questions in English.
• Key Lesson: New ways to ask "What’s your name?" and handling situations when you forget someone’s name.

Key Expressions for Asking Names

• Direct Question: "What is your name?" is rarely used by native speakers.
• Alternatives:
  • Introduce yourself first: "Hi, I'm [Your Name], and you?"
  • When forgetting someone's name: "I'm sorry, what was your name again?"
  • Politeness is key: Apologize and use past tense to show memory of meeting them.

Tips on Using Names

• In conversations, use a person’s name to show respect and interest.
• Avoid overusing the name to prevent awkwardness.

Conversational Practice Tips

• Importance: Real conversations are vital for mastering a language.
• Methods:
  • Ask questions to keep the conversation going.
  • Learn and use core vocabulary words.
  • Study video/audio lessons repeatedly to reinforce learning.

Asking for Contact Information

• Instead of "What’s your phone number?":
  • Use "Could I get your number?"
  • For email, "Could I get your email address?"
  • Use social media queries: "Are you on [Platform]?"

Responding to Location-Based Queries

• Question: "Where do you live?"
• Responses can include:
  • Naming the area or landmark.
  • Mentioning the nearest train line or station.

Discussing Hobbies

• Avoid using "hobbies" directly:
  • Use "What do you do for fun?"
  • Responses: "I like to [activity]" or "I enjoy [activity]."
  • Adjust intensity of interest with words like "really" or "kind of."

Cultural Tips

• Diverse Regions: In the U.S. and UK, people often pride themselves on their region.
• Indirect Questions: Used to avoid mistakes, especially in multicultural areas.

Grammar Learning Strategies

• Grammar Bank: Use it like a dictionary for grammar rules and examples.
• Contextual Learning: Learn grammar through conversations and practical usage.

Conclusion

• Resource Reminder: Free ebook and extensive lesson resources available.
• Engagement Encouragement: Share comments, and join future lessons.

These notes cover the main points and strategies discussed in the series. They serve as a guide to learning conversational English effectively, focusing on practical use and cultural understanding.