English is a global language and is widely used for communication in a variety of fields like business, education, and media. Discussing current events in English can be a great way to improve your language skills and stay informed about what’s happening in the world.
But it’s not easy! Especially, if you’re not a native speaker or if you’re not familiar with the topic. In this article, we’ll provide you with some basic tips and strategies for discussing current events in English effectively.
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Understand the Vocabulary
One of the first things you need to do when discussing current events in English is to understand the vocabulary. There may be specific or technical terms and phrases used to describe the situation. It’s essential to know these words and phrases so that you can communicate effectively.
Take advantage of online resources like the simple news stories on this website or social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. There are many accounts that regularly post useful phrases or new vocabulary that you can follow.
Also, I’m a big fan of flashcard apps! They are a great way to review some vocabulary on your phone during a commute or while you’re waiting in line. I recommend Ankidroid for Android users, it’s free! Unfortunately, it’s not free for iPhone users.
Learn About the Event
Before you start discussing current events in English, it’s essential to learn about the event. You should know the basic facts such as who, what, where, when, and why. This will help you understand the context and make it easier to participate in the conversation.
Try to stay up to date by using different sources like news websites, social media, and podcasts. I have more information about using news stories to practice English here.
Use Simple and Clear Language
When discussing current events in English, it’s important to use simple and clear language. Avoid using complex sentences or vocabulary that you’re not familiar with. Instead, use simple and easy-to-understand words and phrases. This will make it easier for others to understand what you’re saying, and you’ll sound more confident. Your goal should be to communicate clearly! There’s no need for big words or fancy idioms.
Practice Active Listening
Active listening is an essential skill for discussing current events in English. It’s important to pay attention to what others are saying and to ask questions if you don’t understand something. You can also rephrase what others have said to show that you’re listening and to clarify any confusion.
“So, you’re saying …?” and “Like you said …” can be very useful expressions to let you participate in the conversation and to confirm your understanding of the discussion.
Take a look at my post about improving listening skills to get more advice on this!
Be Prepared to Ask and Answer Questions
When talking about current events with someone, there will most likely be questions like “what do you think about …?” or “How do you feel about …?”. These are called open-questions. Be sure to ask the person you’re speaking to some of these types of questions!
You can also use conversational fillers to help you gain time to think about your response or show that you’re actively listening. Examples of conversational fillers include: “That’s interesting,” “I see,” or “Can you tell me more?”
And be confident in your ability to discuss current events in English. Remember that making mistakes is part of the learning process and that everyone has something valuable to contribute to a discussion.
Join the Conversation
By following these tips and strategies, you can boost your English language skills and become more confident and involved in current event discussions. Remember to build your vocabulary, practice your listening and speaking skills, and be prepared to ask and answer questions. With consistent effort and practice, you can take your English to the next level and stay informed about world events. Don’t be afraid to try these tips and join in on the conversation! Practice makes perfect!
