1

Speaking Course_Level_3
Complied By

Nisha Vasudevan
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Speaking Course_Level_2
Speaking Course: Spoken English Communication for Workplace
Objectives:
This training is intended to help course participants gain confidence speaking English during their jobs,
increase productivity and build rapport with their improved ability to communicate and get their point
across. This onsite class includes work-specific dialogues & role-playing, life skills & conversational, oral
practice, pronunciation help & suggestions on how to continue the learning process outside of the
classroom.

Schedule:
The in-person/online English Course will meet 3 hours a day for 5 days. There will be a total of 15 hours of
instructional time.

Course Content:
The course is focused on providing participants the skills and confidence to communicate more effectively
in English. The course is based on both work-specific and conversational units, customized to meet the
specific needs of the students.

Accountability:
Attendance, punctuality, participation and completing of in-class assignments are all keys to the program’s
success.

What Is Included with Each Course:

All lesson plans include:

i. learning objectives
ii. teacher instructions
iii. interactive assignments to have participants practice speaking

• Student progress reports submitted to Amideast Office,

• Teacher evaluations

• 15 hours of ESL instruction (per course) for up to 15 participants / students and

• Customized handouts and practice activities to practice in class.

Course Description

Level 3

By the end of the 15-hour course, the students will be able to accomplish the following objectives :

Day 1 – Preparing for a job interview

Day 2 – Attending a job interview

Day 3 – Making an appointment

Day 4 – Giving directions around the office

Day 5 – Welcoming a Visitor

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Lesson Plan:
Speaking Course_Level_2

Day Content Hours Learning and Teaching Activities Materials Evaluation

1 Unit 1 3 1. Teacher introduces the course - Learning - Observation

description, course objectives, content, materials of student
Preparing for a Job
methods of teaching andactivities, performance
Interview - Computer
teaching material, and assessment and
and - In-class
1.1 Warm-up evaluation.
PowerPoint exercises
1.2 Useful Phrases for 2. Teacher informs the policy and slides
Having a Job Interview learning and teaching quality
assurance system. - Authentic
materials
3. Teacher tells students the classroom
rules and regulations.

4. Teacher introduces the lesson byshowing a

picture of interview situation and
encourages studentsin small groups to
answer the questions and then discuss the
answers.

5. Teacher lets students read and listen to

useful phrases for a job interview by
focusing on the stressand intonation.

Teacher lets students practice speaking the

phrases with their classmates and describe
the
expressions.

6. 7. Teacher assigns students to do an

exercise and checks their
comprehension.
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2 Unit 2 3 1. Teacher introduces model - Learning - Observation
conversations and let them readand materials of student
Attending a Job
listen to the conversations. performance
Interview - Computer
2. Teacher has students practice speaking and - In-class
1.3 Model Conversations
the conversations withtheir classmates. PowerPoint exercises
for a JobInterview slides
3. Teacher encourages student to practice the - Role play
1.4 Grammar - Authentic
conversations again byusing some
- Present and PastSimple prompts. materials
Tenses
4. Teacher describes grammar pointsfound in
1.5 Role Play the conversations and assigns students to
do an exerciseas well as checks their
comprehension.

5. Teacher has students make their

conversation and do a role play.

6. Teacher assigns students to respond to

review questions.
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3 Unit 3 3 1. Teacher introduces the lesson by - Learning - Observation

Making an showing a picture of an office worker materials of student

Appointment making an appointment andthen - Computer performance
encourages students in small groups to and
Warm-up PowerPoint - In-class
answer the questions and then discuss the
Useful Phrases for Making slides exercises
answers.
an Appointment
- Role play
2. Teacher lets students read and listen to
Model Conversationsfor
Making an Appointment useful phrases for making an appointment
by focusing on thestress and intonation.
Grammar
Teacher lets students practice speaking the
- Present Continuous for
phrases with their classmates and describe
Future Plans the
7.5 Role Play expressions.

4. Teacher assigns students to do an

exercise and checks their
comprehension.

5. Teacher introduces model conversations

and let them readand listen to the
conversations.

6. Teacher has students practice speaking

the conversations withtheir classmates.

7. Teacher encourages student to practice the

conversations again byusing some
prompts.

8. Teacher describes grammar pointsfound in

the conversations and assigns students to
do an exerciseas well as checks their
comprehension.

9. Teacher has students make their

conversation and do a role play.

10. Teacher assigns students to respond to

review questions.
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4 Unit 4 Giving Directions 3 1. Teacher introduces the lesson by - Learning - Observation
around theOffice showing a picture of a receptionistgiving materials of student
Warm-up directions and then encourages students - Computer performance
in small groups to answer the questions and
Useful Phrases forAsking - In-class
and then discuss the answers. PowerPoint
for and GivingDirections slides exercises
Model Conversations Teacher lets students read and listen to
useful phrases for asking for and giving - Role play
for Giving Directions directions by
around the Office
focusing on the stress and
Grammar intonation.
- Prepositions of Place 3. Teacher lets students practice speaking
8.5Role Play the phrases with theirclassmates and
describe the expressions.

4. Teacher assigns students to do an

exercise and checks their
comprehension.

5. Teacher introduces model conversations

and let them readand listen to the
conversations.

6. Teacher has students practice speaking

the conversations withtheir classmates.

7. Teacher encourages student to practice the

conversations again byusing some
prompts.

8. Teacher describes grammar pointsfound in

the conversations and assigns students to
do an exerciseas well as checks their
comprehension.

9. Teacher has students make their

conversation and do a role play.
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5 Unit 5 3 1. Teacher introduces the lesson by - Learning - Observation

Welcoming aVisitor showing a picture of a host welcoming a visitor - materials - of student

and then performance
- Computer
Warm-up encourages students in small - In-class
and PowerPoint
Useful Phrases for groups to answer the questionsand then slides exercises
Welcoming Visitors discuss the answers. Role play
Authentic
Model Conversationsfor 2. Teacher lets students read and listen to materials
Welcoming Visitors useful phrases for welcoming visitors by
Grammar focusing onthe stress and intonation.

- Modal Verbs for 3. Teacher lets students practice speaking

Requests and Offers the phrases with theirclassmates and
Role Play describe the expressions.

4. Teacher assigns students to do an

exercise and checks their
comprehension.

5. Teacher introduces model conversations

and let them readand listen to the
conversations.

6. Teacher has students practice speaking

the conversations withtheir classmates.

7. Teacher encourages student to practice the

conversations again byusing some
prompts.

8. Teacher describes grammar pointsfound in

the conversations and assigns students to
do an exerciseas well as checks their
comprehension.

9. Teacher has students make theirconversation

and do a role play.
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Unit 1

A Job Interview

Introduction
A job interview is an opportunity to show an employer that a job applicant should be
employed. Therefore, it is essential that a young job seeker should be well-prepared before
a job interview. It is a good idea to gather information as much as possible; for example,
office locations, products and services, customers, competitors, history, recent news and
financial information. In addition, a job interview rehearsal with a counselor or friend is an
option. A candidate should record yourself so that he or she can check diction, tempo and
body language. Preparing clothing and appearance is also vital in order to be professional
on the job interview day.

This unit will review the most common interview questions and their answers.
Students will learn how to answer typical job interview questions effectively. In the
grammar part, the present and past simple tenses are focused. At the end of this unit,
students are encouraged to role play during the interview.

1.1 Warm-up
Work with a partner. Describe the picture. Where are these people?
What ishappening?

1.2 Useful Phrases for Having a Job Interview

It is important that a job candidate should start a conversation with
greeting and introduction .For example “Good morning, I am Akram Mohammed.
I’m very glad to meet you.”. The first question is often like breaking the ice.
Therefore, the interviewer may ask a candidate something like:

o How are you today?

o Did you have any trouble finding us?
o The weather today is very nice, isn’t it?
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The best way to respond to this kind of question is in a short, friendly
manner without going into too much detail. Study the following examples and
practice speaking with a partner.

Interviewer: How are you today?

Candidate: I’m fine, thank you. And how about you?
Interviewer: Did you have any trouble finding us?
Candidate: No, the office isn’t too difficult to find.
Interviewer: The weather today is very nice, isn’t it?
Candidate: Yes, it’s wonderful. I love this time of year.

After breaking the ice, it is time for beginning a job interview.

The most common interview questions are divided into five types: personal data, work experience,
new job and company, strengths and weaknesses, and future plan which are shown with
examples of responses given for each question.

Describing Your Personal Data

An interviewer typically asks a candidate to describe personal data at the beginning of the
interview. You, as a candidate, will introduce yourself and your educational qualifications.
Sometimes the interviewer asks you about courses and grades as well as extracurricular activities
at university.
Study the following questions and the examples of responses given.

Interviewer: Tell me about yourself.

Candidate 1: I’ve just graduated from Aden University with a degree in Business English. During
the summers, I worked as a supervisor in a hotel to help pay for my education.
Candidate 2: I was born and raised in Aden. I attended Aden University and received my
bachelor’s degree in business English. I have worked for 2 years as a marketing assistant for AIA
Insurance. I enjoy playing tennis in my free time and learning languages.
Candidate 3: I was born in taiz. I graduated from Taiz University. I’ve worked for
two years as a secretary to sales manager for CP Company. I enjoy
playing badminton in my free time and learning languages.

Interviewer: What extracurricular activities have you participated in?

Candidate 1: At university, I organized a seminar which made business
presentations and invited some quest speakers to share
meaningful experience. I gained valuable skills in planning events,
being a leader and working as a team to effectively manage tasks.
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Candidate 2: I also have a background in organizing an event and designing some
English activities in the English Camp. I feel my education and
experience outside of the classroom have prepared me for a variety
of career paths.

Interviewer: What was your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you
handle it?

Candidate 1: Acquiring successful time management skills was the biggest challenge I faced as a

student. Besides studies, I participated in many activities. Now that I am in the work force,

I continue to use the skills I gained, and I am always trying to improve on them as well.

Candidate 2: Since I was balancing the workload of a double major and extra-curricular activities, the

challenge I have to say is time management. Also, I learned how to work with people and in

groups.

Talking about Your Work Experience

If the interviewer finds your work history in your resume, he or she will
always ask you to talk about your work experience. Study the following questions
and the examples of responses given.

Interviewer : Can you tell me about your responsibilities at your last job?
Candidate 1: I advised customers on financial matters. After I consulted the customer, I
completed a customer inquiry form and catalogued the information in our database.
I then collaborated with colleagues to prepare the best possible package for the
client.
Candidate 2: I was responsible for operating day-to-day office tasks. I took care of clients and
assisted my executive.
Interviewer : What work experience do you have?
Candidate 1: At the moment, I work part-time as a receptionist for a 3 star hotel. I am very good at
talking to customers. I am also very skilled with computers.
Candidate 2: After university, I started work in a logistics company as an assistant to the manager.
Then I left the job because I want to find a position with more responsibility. I now
work as an import coordinator for Great Power Trading.

Talking about New Job and Company

The interviewer is curious how well you know the position and company. Study the following
questions and the examples of responses given.
Interviewer: Why are you interested in this position?
Candidate 1: Well, I want to use English in my career. I can contact overseas customers and
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present company’s products efficiently. It seems like this job matches my
qualifications.
Candidate 2 : I love working in a wonderful team environment. I am certain that this position offers
very challenging work as well as an opportunity for advancement for those who work
hard. I know that this will be a position that I will stay in for a very long time.
Interviewer: Can you tell me a bit about the responsibilities of this position?
Candidate 1 : This position as a customer service agent will involve managing incoming calls and
customer service inquiries. And a customer service agent has to assess customers’
needs to achieve satisfaction. I feel certain that this position offers very challenging
and exciting work.
Candidate 2 : A research assistant helps collect data, enter data into a computer system and
interpret data.
Interviewer Why do you want to work for Acer?
Candidate 1 :After following your firm progress for years, I am convinced that Acer is becoming
one
of the leaders and I would like to be part of the team.
Candidate 2: I am impressed by the quality of your products. I am sure that I would be a convincing
sales representative because I truly believe that your laptop is the best product on
the market today.
Interviewer What do you know about our company?
Candidate : Your company is one of the largest low-cost airlines with a large number of domestic
routes within Yemen. Your company also serves several international routes in Asia. I looked at
your website and found this is an exciting place to work.

Talking about Your Strengths and Weaknesses

During a job interview, a candidate will be asked to talk about strengths and weaknesses. Study
the following examples of responses given.
Interviewer: What is your greatest strength?
Candidate 1: I’ve a degree in Business English. On my degree course I specialized in using
English in business offices which I believe is a key requirement of this job. I
conducted a research study which I think will also be a major asset. Finally, I’m a
really good team player and I enjoy working with colleagues and constantly
developing new skills. I’m a
very quick learner.
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Candidate 2: I work well under pressure. When there is a deadline, I can focus on the task at hand
and structure my work schedule well. I remember one week when I had to get 6 new customer
reports out by Friday at 5. I finished all the reports ahead of time without having to work overtime.
Interviewer What is your greatest weakness?
Candidate 1: I work too hard and become nervous when my co-workers are not doing their job.
However, I am aware of this problem, and before I say anything to anyone, I ask myself why the
colleague is having difficulties.
Candidate 2 : I tend to spend too much time making sure the customer is satisfied. However, I
began setting time-limits for myself if I noticed this happening.

Talking about Your Future

During a job interview, the interviewer will often ask how a candidate plans on achieving his or her
goals. Study the following examples of responses given.
Interviewer: What do you want to do in three years from now?
Candidate 1: In the future, I hope to be working overseas.
Candidate 2: Three years from now, I’d like to be doing research.
Candidate 3: Three years from now, I want to be a web designer.

To sum up, the above questions represent some of the most basic questions asked on any job
interview. Additionally, during a job interview, it is much better to make simple grammar mistakes
and provide detailed information about your experience than to say grammatically perfect
sentences without any real content.
During a job interview, an interviewer may ask about an expected salary or a start date for a job.
Study the questions and suggested answers below.
Interviewer: What salary do you expect to get?
Candidate: what is your standard rate of pay for a person in this position?
Interviewer What are your salary expectations for this job?
Candidate: I expect to get a reasonable salary according to the standards of company norms.
Interviewer: If we offer you a position and you accept it, how soon can you begin to work?
Candidate 1: I can start immediately.
Candidate 2 :As soon as you would like me to begin.
Candidate 3:I can start a new job at the beginning of next month. I have to give a 4 week notice
before I can leave my current job.
Before finishing a job interview, a candidate may be asked if there are any questions so the
candidate can ask some questions like the followings:
Interviewer : Do you have any question?
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Candidate 1 : Yes, sir/madam. What does the probation period involve? Candidate 2 What does
the training course consist of?
The conversation commonly ends with thanking a candidate for coming to the interview and the
candidate should express appreciation for having a job interview opportunity as shown below.
Interviewer: Thank you for coming. I will let you know the interview result soon.

Candidate 1: Thank you for letting me have an interview. Goodbye.

The following table summarizes some phrases including questions and suggested answers used during a job interview.

Table 1.1 Questions and Suggested Answers for a Job Interview

Type Question Suggested Answer

personal data - Can you tell me - I’ve got a degree in Business

something about your English from Sanaa

background? University.

- Can you tell me - I am a recent graduate

something about with a bachelor’s degree
yourself? in business English from
Sanaa University. I am
- Can you tell me about interested in applying for a
yourself? secretary position in this
company .

work experience - Describe your - My previous position is a

employment history. hotel

concierge. I welcomed
guests, recommended
- What were your key places to go and arranged
responsibilities? excursions and

What type of work experience transportation upon their

have you had? requests. I often dealt
with customers’
complaints and found
appropriate solutions.

- I was assigned to receive

visitors and take them
round the company. I also
fixed appointments and
answered the phone.
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Type Question Suggested Answer

strengths - What do you think are I’m good at organizational skills,
your strengths? prioritization and time management. But
my greatest strength is my ability to
- What is your greatest effectively
strength?
handle multiple projects and deadlines.

weaknesses - What is your major I’m a very shy person. I realized I

weakness? would have to change, then I took a
Describe your greatest speech class at night. I was able to
weakness. overcome my shyness and speak out in
front of the group.

I’ve greatly improved my ability to

communicate with others. Now, in front
of a large audience I can give a
presentation without a problem.

future plan - What would you like - I would like to become the
to very best marketer that your
be doing in the future? company can rely on. I feel I’ll be
fully prepared to take on any
- What do you hope to
greater responsibilities.
do five years from
now? - In five years, I see myself to be
promoted to a senior management
- Where do you see
position as I have worked very
yourself in five
hard at my job.
years?

- What are your goals

for the future?
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Practice

Activity 1

1. listen to examples of five types of questions and responses for a job

interview. Then repeat them.
2. Study the phrases in Table 1.1 again. listen and repeat. Then practice
asking and answering interview questions with your partners.

Comprehension Check

Exercise 1: Fill in the blank with appropriate words or phrases.

Manager: So, Miss Ahlam, please tell me something about yourself.

Ahlam : Well, I got________________1) from Sanaa University. I studied a
secretarial and office work course there. After university, I worked
for Better Way Co. ltd. which is a cosmetics direct sales distributor
for two years.

Manager: What were your key responsibilities at Better Way?

Ahlam: I________2) visitors and took them round the company. I also fixed
appointments and answered the phone. I arranged the weekly
meetings.

Manager: What makes you interested in working with us?

Ahlam : Your __________3) has a good reputation in the
logistics industry. And I see I can use my skills at work while looking
for some advancement opportunities for myself.

Manager : What do you hope to do five years from now?

Ahlam : In five years, I see myself to ________________________________4).
Manager: If we offer you a position and you accept it, how soon can you begin to
work?

Ahlam: ___________________________________ 5).

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Unit 2

Having a Job Interview

During a job interview, an interviewer usually starts a conversation with greetings and some
introductions. Then a job candidate will be asked some questions. Finally, the interview
conversation will end with saying goodbye and telling when the result is declared. Study the
following conversations.

Conversation 1
Mrs. Jones, the HR Manager at Pro Logistics is interviewing Miss Sumaya Yang, a job seeker.
Mrs. Jones : Good morning, Miss. How are you today?
Sumaya: I’m fine, thank you. How about you?
Mrs. Jones: Very well, thank you. I’ve looked over your resume, Miss Sumaya but can you tell
me a little bit about yourself?
Sumaya : Yes, of course. Well, I graduated from Sanaa University with a major in Business English.
I took a three-month training with FedEx. And I had a part-time job as an assistant salesperson with
the Mall Group when I studied in the final year.
Mrs. Jones: Did you like your job?
Sumaya : Yes, I learned a lot and had a chance to help some major sales.
Mrs. Jones: Why did you leave your job?
Sumaya: I have been looking for an opportunity to coordinate oversea people. I would welcome
any opportunity to contribute to Pro logistics, either here or aboard.
Mrs. Jones: I’m glad to hear that. Do you have any experience in import-export?
Sumaya: Not really, I just helped my colleague prepare shipping documents but I am ready to
learn. I am sure that I can improve my ability to work well and deepen my understandings.
Mrs. Jones: Why are you interested in our company?
Sumaya: Your company is well-known. I think working here would teach me a lot. Moreover, I have
heard that your management system is excellent, and I would be very interested in experiencing it
myself.
Mrs. Jones: What is your greatest strength?
Sumaya: I’m good at organizational skills. I’m able to effectively handle multiple projects at the
same time.
Mrs. Jones: What do you want to do in three years from now?
Sumaya : In the future, I hope to be working overseas as a port of your team.
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Mrs. Jones: OK. Do you have any questions about Pro logistics?
Sumaya: Well, is any training given?
Mrs. Jones: Yes, we have 30-hour training about our company policy and technical knowledge.
Thank you for coming, Miss Sumaya. We’ll let you know about the result of the interview next
Monday.
Sumaya : Thank you, madam.

Conversation 2
Mr. Lee, the supervisor of Human Resources Department at CP Oil is interviewing Mr. Amr Khalid,
a recent graduate.
Mr. lee: Good afternoon, please take a seat. I am Mr. lee. I’m the supervisor of Human resources.
What’s your name?
Somsak: Nice to meet you, Mr. lee. My name is Amr Khalid.
Mr. lee: Now tell me about yourself.
Somsak : I’m just graduated from Sanaa University with a degree in Business English. I’m now 22
years old, and I come from Samutprakarn.
Mr. lee :At the moment we’re looking for salespeople. Do you have any experience?
Somsak Yes, I do. I work part-time as a sales assistant for a small clothing company on
weekend. I’m certain that I would be an excellent candidate.
Mr. lee During your study, what extracurricular activities have you participated in?
Somsak I organized a seminar and invited some quest speakers to share meaningful
experience. I gained valuable skills in planning events, being a leader and working as a team to
effectively manage tasks.
Mr. lee Great. Did you like it?
Somsak I feel my education and experience outside the classroom have prepared me for a
variety of career paths.
Mr. lee Our company needs young, hard-working and friendly employees to join the team. Well, I
can tell you that I’m interested in working with you, too.
Somsak Thank you for your time. Goodbye.

Practice
Activity 2
Listen and read the conversations 1-2.
listen again and repeat.
Practice speaking the conversations with your partners. Then take turns being interviewers and
interviewees.
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Grammar
Present and Past Simple Tenses
Having a job interview in English can be a challenging task. It is necessary
to use correct tenses to state when and what duties you have at your present or
past jobs. learn to use present simple and past simple tenses in a job interview.

1. Present Simple
A candidate uses the present simple verb form to speak about his or her current
position and describe daily responsibilities. People can use now, at present,
current to talk about the present events and activities.

Example:

• Now I work for a company as a sales representative.

• I collect data from all of our branches and analyze the information for the
market research.

2. Past Simple
A candidate uses the past simple verb form to describe his or her daily
responsibilities in the past jobs. People can use past, ago, last to talk about the
past events and activities.

Example:

• I worked for a company in Phuket from 2014 to 2016.

• I developed an in-house database for the personnel department 6 months ago.

3. Comprehension Check
Exercise 2

Complete the sentences by using appropriate present simple or past simple verbs.
1. From your resume, you got a degree one year ago. What __ your best
subject at university?
2. I enjoyed studying English Conversations in the Workplace. I in
English camp in my second year study.
3. Now I as a receptionist at a hotel in Bangkok. My friend Mary
for an electronics company for a year.
4. My current position a secretary to Managing Director.
5. In my last job at a retail store, I with clients’ complaints. I
talked to them a lot to help them find solutions.
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Role Play
Work in a group of three. Do the followings:

1. Choose a job advertisement from websites or a newspaper that interests your

group. Alternatively, you can choose a job from the given list.

Translator Executive Secretary

receptionist Public relations
Sales representative Oversea Coordinator
Customer relationship Officer Marketing Communication Officer

2. look at each type of interview question previously discussed in this unit.

3. Discuss which questions should be asked in a five-minute interview.
4. Think about what questions the interviewers might be asked, and then prepare
the answers to the questions.
5. Answer the questions as best as you can. remember to give practical examples
of how you have used your skills and personal qualities.
6. Then have two of you as interviewers interviewing one who is acting as a job
candidate.
7. Take turns.

Summary
This unit presents the most commonly used interview question types and
answers are presented for an idea of an interview conversation. The model
conversations are provided with expressions to review the most common
interview questions and their answers. Present and past simple tenses used in the
job interview are focused.
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Review Questions
Study the following excerpt from a job interview conversation and then answer the questions.

Mohammed Saeed has an interview today. It is for the position of Personal Assistant to the
Marketing Manager at a well-known company.
Chairman: So, Mr. Saeed, please tell us something about your education.
Mohammed : Well, I just graduated from Aden University with a degree in Business English.
During the study, I did a secretarial and office work course there. With my final year, I
had worked as a trainee in the marketing department for three months.
Chairman : Good. Do you have any special abilities?
Mohammed : I can operate computers very well.
Chairman: What computer programs can you use?
Mohammed: I can use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Photoshop.
Chairman: All right.

1. What is the job that Mohammed applies for?

2. What information does Chairman need to know?
3. Does Mohammed have special abilities? If yes, what are they?
4. In your opinion, will you apply for a job in a large or a small company? Give reasons.
5. After graduating from college, what position will you apply for?
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Unit 3

Making an Appointment
Introduction
When businesspeople try to make an appointment, they often use indefinite excuses if they are
busy at a certain time. At work, you will have an opportunity to arrange an appointment for people.
Even though you have a scheduled appointment, something has happened unexpectedly. You
must telephone someone and explain the problem why you have to change the appointment.
Careful arranging to meet in business will show that you are a great meeting organizer.
This unit will cover some useful expressions used to make and change appointments. In grammar
part, the present continuous tense for future plans is presented. The students are also
encouraged to role play a conversation to fix an appointment.

Warm-up
Work with a partner. Discuss the pictures.

What is the weekly planner

used for? Who uses it?

What is she doing?

Useful Phrases for Making an Appointment

When an office worker would like to arrange to meet someone to discuss some topics. Some
useful phrases are suggested in Table 3.1.
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Table 3 . 1 Phrases for Making Appointment

Question Response
Can we meet on Thursday That’s fine. See you on Thursday at one.
afternoon?
I’m busy all day on Thursday. I’m afraid I’m busy
on Thursday.

How about Friday morning? On Friday, I’m visiting our factory.

What about three o’clock in the Three o’clock is fine.

afternoon?

What are you doing tomorrow? I’m flying to New York.

What are you doing next Monday?

What are you doing on Tuesday at I’m meeting Mr. Thomson.

one?

Would October 22nd at 10 suit you? Sorry, I can’t make it at 10.

Question Response

Is Tuesday Ok with you? No, sorry. I’m not available on Tuesday.

Yes, that looks OK.

When are you free? I’m free on Wednesday.

When is good for you? What I’m free at 11.30.
time is good for you?

Are you free on Monday morning? Sorry, I’m busy then.

Are you free on Tuesday at ten? Yes, I’m free then.
Are you free on the 24th ?

Comprehension Check
Exercise 1 Complete this conversation.

Frank: Hi Amanda. This is Frank. How are you?

Amanda: Hi Frank. I’m fine, thanks. How are you?

Frank: Good, thank you. I’d like to ask if we can talk about our budget plan this week.

Amanda: Certainly. 1)______________?

Frank :2) ______________3)________ 4)___________ on Thursday at ten?

Amanda: let me check my diary. No, sorry. ___________5). I’m free in the
 23
____________6).___________ 7)_________ 8) ____________half past two?

Frank: Half past two ______________ 9) _____________10).

Model Conversations for Making Appointments

This section will present different situational conversations to make and cancel
some appointments for work. Study the model conversations.

Conversation 1
Today is Tuesday July 1st . Sameer Basil calls Kim Tang to make an appointment.

Sameer: I was wondering if we could meet sometime to talk about next year’s catalog. Are
you busy tomorrow morning?
Kim: I’m sorry, but I’m meeting someone in the morning. How about the afternoon?
Sameer: I’m afraid I’m going to the dentist in the afternoon. What about the day after
tomorrow?
Kim: I’m doing something in the morning, but I’m free all afternoon. Sameer The afternoon would
be fine. Is 2.30 OK?
Kim: 2.30 is fine. Goodbye.

Conversation 2
Two people are arranging a meeting to discuss a new project.

Michael: Hello.
Jessica: Hello, could I speak to Michael Robertson, please? Michael Speaking.
Jessica: It’s Jessica Adam from Microsoft here.
Michael: Hello Jessica. What can I do for you?
Jessica : I’m calling about the new project in China. Can we meet on Wednesday morning?
Michael : This week is not good for me. How about next week?
Jessica : OK, I’ll just check my diary. Are you free on Tuesday?
Michael : Sorry, I’m busy all day. What about Thursday?
Jessica : That looks OK. When do have in mind? Michael Would three o’clock suit you?
Michael: That would be fine for me.
Jessica: Good. See you at your office next Thursday at three.
Michael: OK, goodbye.
 24
Conversation 3
Today is Wednesday July 2nd. Sameer Basil calls Kim Tang to change an appointment.

Sameer: Hello Kim. This is Sameer from Smart Industry. I have an appointment tomorrow at 2.30
with you. But unfortunately, I must participate in an urgent meeting on that day.
Kim: I understand. When would be a good time?
Sameer: What about July 7th at 10.30? Is that a problem?
Kim: Let me check my diary. No, no problem at all.
Sameer: Thank you. I’m sorry about that.
Kim: It’s okay. Thanks for calling.
Sameer: Goodbye.

Practice
Activity 2
listen to the model conversations. Pay attention to the stress and intonation of the speakers.

Then practice speaking the model conversations with a partner. Take turns. Now practice the conversation
again with a partner.

Use your name and your own ideas.

Grammar Present Continuous for Future Plans

At work, people can use the present continuous tense (be + verb + -ing) to talk about the future
plans. Study the examples.

• Who is Mr. Todds meeting for lunch tomorrow?

• What are you doing when you finish your work?
• I’m having dinner with sales team next Monday.
• She is going to Singapore for signing the contract.
• I’m leaving for China this afternoon.
Please note that days, months, dates, and time can be mentioned in the sentences talking about
future.

Comprehension Check Exercise 2

Write P for the sentences that talk about the present and F for the sentences that talk about the
future.
1. Tomorrow I’m going to Berlin for a trade fair.
2. Mary is busy. She’s writing an inquiry letter.
3. Look! The sky train is arriving.
4. We’re having a meeting this afternoon.
5. I’m interviewing for a secretary post at three.

Role Play
Work in pairs. Role play a conversation. Follow the given situation.
Student A and B work for the same company but in the different department.
Student B wants to fix a time to meet to discuss something. (Think of your topic before you start.)
Then Student B calls Student A at his or her office. Student A receives the call.

Follow the instructions given. Use your own names.

Change the role and practice again.

Summary
This unit illustrates expressions for making appointments. Arranging a
meeting is also focused on leading to successful business transaction. The use
of the present continuous tense to talk about the future plans is presented.
Review Questions

1. What do you say when you need to make an appointment with Mrs.
freeman in order to discuss the new project?
2. If you are not available to meet someone, how can you say?
3. What do you say that you are free to have a working lunch on Friday 29?
4. “Would Monday at 10 suits you?” Can you correct this sentence?
5. If your client is busy, what do you say to suggest another time to meet?
 Unit 4
Giving Directions around the Office

Introduction
Businesspeople are often out of their offices to go to the other company. In
addition, when you are in a new company and you want to know where an office
or a building is, there is a need to ask for and get directions.

In this unit, students will learn about how to ask for and give some
directions with useful phrases and model conversations. In grammar part,
prepositions of time to locate places are presented. At the end of this unit,
students are encouraged to role play some conversations to ask for and give some
directions around the office.

Warm-up
Work in small groups. Discuss the
picture. Where are the people?
What are they saying?
 28

Useful Phrases for Asking for and Giving Directions

Businesspeople often go to other people’s offices. They also need to ask
for directions. Meanwhile, at offices, employees may often give directions to
visitors. Some useful phrases when asking for and giving directions are suggested
as follows:

Asking for Directions

o Excuse me. Could you tell me how to get to Anderson Construction?
o How can I get to the restroom, please?
o Could you direct me to Ms. Sumit’s office?
o Good morning. How do I find room 315?
o Excuse me, where’s Ken’s desk?
o Where’s the meeting room 3?
o What floor is Mr. Jones’s office on?
o Excuse me. I’m looking for the accounting department.

Giving Directions
o Follow this hall / path.
o The computer room is at the end of the hall on the right.
o Take the elevator to the sixth floor. His office’s on the left.
o You have to go upstairs.
o The storage room is on the second floor. You have to go downstairs.
o Go down the escalator. The Human resources Department is on the third floor.
o Take the escalator to the third floor.
o Go out of the lift and then turn right.
o Keep walking straight, then turn left.
o It’s the second door on your right.
o Go past the restroom.
o The cafeteria is near the parking lot.
o The café is on the left / right of the restaurant.
o The meeting room is next to / beside the pantry.
o It’s across from / opposite the toilets.
o The smoking area is in front of the vending machine.
o It’s behind the fitness room.
o It’s between the lounge and the library.
 29
Practice
Activity 1
Study the phrases again. listen and repeat.

Then practice asking and answering questions to ask for and give some directions with your partners.

Comprehension Check
Exercise 1

Complete the short conversations.

Visitor : 1), could you tell me how to get to the Marketing Manager’s office, please?

Receptionist: Take the elevator on the second floor. His office’s on the left.

Look at the plan for questions 2-3.

Visitor: Excuse me, where’s Lisa Green’s office?

Bena: She’s in room 305. Just go upstairs. It’s on the right,____________ 2) the

meeting room.

Visitor :I see. Thank you very much.

Bena,________________ 3).

Model Conversations for Giving Directions around the Office

The visitors or workers often have to move around the office. They also need to
find the way around places they have never been. Therefore, precise directions can help.
Study the model conversations.

Conversation 1
Rita is quite new to the company. She asks for directions to Mr. Hall’s office.

Rita: Miyoki, how do I find Mr. Hall’s office?

Miyoki: You have to go upstairs, sir. It’s the second office on the left.

Rita: Thanks.

Miyoki : You’re welcome.

 30
Conversation 2
A receptionist gives some directions to the Sales Department.

Receptionist : Good afternoon, madam. Can I help you?

Virginia : Yes, I’m Virginia Thomson, and I have a 2:00 appointment with Mr. Adeeb Hashem in

Sales. How do I get to the Sales Department?

Receptionist: OK, Ms. Thomson, here, this is your temporary security badge. It’s on the fourth floor. When

you go out of the elevator, turn right and straight down the hall. It’s the second door on your left,

and it says “Sales Department” on it. You can’t miss it.

Virginia : Thank you. And uh, where’s the elevator, please?

Receptionist: Oh, just go over there, next to the stairs.

Virginia: Thank you.

Receptionist: You’re welcome.

Conversation 3
An assistant manager leads the company tour.
Assistant Manager: Come with me, please. OK, this is the lobby, of course. There’s a cash machine in the

corner there. And a public phone’s next to the cash machine opposite the lobby.

Visitor: Yes, is the lobby open 24 hours?

Assistant Manager : Yes, it is. Now, let’s go to the lifts. They’re next to the stairs. This elevator on the left

stops only to the first, third, fifth, or seventh floors. And this one here stops on every

floor. We’ll go to the first floor to begin. You’ll see the cafeteria and the lounge. Then

go to the second floor, just go up the stairs. The business center is across from the

stairs.

Visitor: Excuse me, can you tell me where the research laboratory is?

Assistant Manager: It’s on the third floor. When you come out of the elevator, turn
right. Walk past the meeting room. It’s the second door on your
left.

Visitor: OK. Can we stop here for a while?

Assistant Manager: Certainly. After this, I’ll show you our fitness center on the
seventh floor. Follow me, please.

Visitor: Wow, great!

 31
Practice
Activity 2
Listen to the model conversations. Pay attention to the stress and intonation of the speakers.

Work with your partner. Practice the conversations. Take turns.

Practice the conversations again. Change the information where necessary by using these ideas below.

Brett Todds / a 10:30 a.m. meeting / Accounting seventh floor / turn left / the last room on your right

Sara Basheer / a lunch appointment / Production first floor / go straight ahead / at the end of the corridor on
your left

Grammar
Prepositions of Place
Prepositions of place are essential when giving directions in the workplace. Study the prepositions in
sentences with illustrations.

The desk is under the clock. The desk is on the left of the window.

The desk is next to the chest. The desk is between the plant and the table.The
desk is beside the chest.

The desk is on the right of the chest.

The desk is in front of the table. The desk is behind the table.

The desk is across from the plant.The

desk is opposite the plant.
 32
Comprehension Check
Exercise 2
Look at the plan. Complete the sentences with these prepositions.
next to on the right in front of between opposite

1. The toilets are the stairs.

2. Meeting room 4 is meeting room 2.
3. Meeting room 3 is meeting room 1 and the lecture theater.
4. The toilets are of the lecture theatre.
5. The drink machines are the elevator.

Role Play
Work with a partner. Follow the given situation.
1. Student A is the Hr Assistant Manager who takes the visitor round the
company. Student B is a visitor.
2 Use useful phrases and model conversations for asking for and giving directions previously
discussed in this unit to help you.
3 Use the following plan to make a conversation asking for and giving directions.
Role play a conversation. Swap the roles.

Summary
This unit presents expressions used in asking for and giving directions in the
company. Prepositions of time to locate places are also provided.

Review Questions
1. What do you say to ask for some directions to the Hr Department?
2. What do you say when someone asks for directions to Mr. Jackson’s office which you

know well that it is the second door on the fourth floor?

3. If someone says “My name’s Brett Todds and I have a 10 a.m. meeting with Mrs. Yang in Sales.
How do I get to the Sales Department?”, how can you respond to him? look at the given plan
to help you.
 Unit 5
Welcoming a Visitor

Introduction
At work, you always welcome visitors. You commonly receive a visitor at your office and sometimes pick up
a visitor from an oversea country at the airport. Acting as a good host is very helpful.

This unit presents ways that a host deals with visitors. Helpful, polite and appropriate expressions are
focused with different situational conversations that may take place at the airport, in the taxi, and at the
office. In grammar part, modal verbs used to express requests or offers for welcoming some visitors are
presented. At the end of this unit, students are encouraged to role play some conversations to receive the
visitors.

Warm-up
Work in small groups. In this picture, a visitor comes to the
office. Discuss the questions.

Who is she? And what is she doing? What are

possible reasons why he comes? What do you do
when you have to welcome a visitor who is waiting in
your office?

Useful Phrases for Welcoming Visitors

When an office worker as a host would like to show hospitality to a visitor, he or
she can have a small talk and offer some drinks. Some conversations may take place at
the airport, in the taxi and at the office. Some useful phrases are suggested in Table 5.1.
Table 5.1 Phrases for Welcoming Visitors

Host Visitor
At the airport

Excuse me. Are you Mr. Park? Yes, it’s me.

Hello, Mr. Thomson. Welcome to Yemen. Hello Ashraf. It’s nice to meet you.

Did you have a good flight? It’s tiring. I could not sleep well.
How was your flight? My flight was delayed but it was OK.
It was fine, thanks. There were no delays.

Did you have a good trip? Not too bad, thanks.

How was your journey?

The limousine is waiting outside. Please Good, thank you.

follow me.

We take a taxi from the airport to the hotel. I’ll see. Thanks. How long does it take to
This the hotel?
way, please.

In the taxi or the limousine

The traffic in Aden is quite terrible at this Traffic jam in London is also bad.
time.

How’s the weather in London? Oh, it’s wet and cold.

Have you ever been to Yemen? I’ve never been here. This is my first time.

Is this your first visit to Aden? Not really. I came here when I was young.
No, it isn’t. I visited Aden last year.

No, I came here three years ago for a

conference.
At the office
Was it easy to find the office? No problem at all. I walked here from the

hotel.

Would you like a cup of coffee while you I’d love one. Thank you.
wait?

What would you like to drink? A cup of coffee, please.

Would you like tea or coffee? Yes. Could I have coffee, please?

Would you like me to show you round the Yes, please. I’m looking forward to seeing

company? it.

Would you like to follow me? It’s this way. OK, thanks.

Visitor Host
At the office
Excuse me. Could I see Mr. Thomson? May I have your name, please?

Good morning. May I see Mr. Todds? Do you have an appointment, sir?

Good morning. I’m Michael Cheng. I have an Come in, please. Mr. Jones is waiting.
appointment with Mr. Jones.

Hello. My name’s Paul Smith. I have an Could you wait a few seconds, please? I’ll

appointment with Mr. Hall. tell him you’re here.

Good afternoon. My name’s Jeff Watson. Good afternoon, Mr. Watson. Just follow
Mr. Hall is waiting for me. me. This is the meeting room. Please have
a seat.
 Practice
Activity 1
• Study the phrases in Table 9.1 again. listen and repeat.
• Then practice asking and answering questions to receive visitors with your partners.

Comprehension Check
Exercise 1
Match the phrases 1-5 in Column A to the correct responses a-e in Column B to make a conversation.

Column A Column B
1. Did you have a good trip? a. Please take a seat. I’ll see if she’s

available.

2. Was the flight on time? b. Yes, it was.

3. I have an appointment with Mrs. Swan. c. Thank you. Green tea would be great.

4. Is your hotel OK? d. Very good, thank you.

5. Can I get you a drink? e. Yes, it’s very comfortable.

Model Conversations for Welcoming Visitors

In business, greeting is the most common to begin a conversation when
you have to receive some visitors. After greetings and introductions, a host should
extend a conversation with talking about everyday topics like traffic, travel,
accommodation, and weather. This section will present different situational
conversations including helpful greeting phrases used for welcoming visitors at
the airport and at the office. Study the model conversations.

Conversation 1
Ammar picks up a foreign business partner at Aden International Airport.
Ammar: Good evening. I’m Ammar Saleh.

Brian: Brian Taylor. Nice to meet you, Mr. Saleh.

Ammar: Pleased to meet you, Mr. Taylor. Welcome to Aden

Brian: Thank you. Yemen is a wonderful country.

Ammar : Did you have a good flight?

Brian: Pretty good, thanks.

Ammar : We’ll take the escalator down to the car park. This way, please.

Brian: OK.
 Conversation 2
Ammar and Brain take a taxi from Aden Airport to the hotel.
Ammar : Have you ever been to Yemen?

Brian: , I came here three years ago for a conference.

Ammar : The traffic in Aden is quite terrible at this time.

Brian: Traffic jam in London is also bad. How long does it take to the hotel?

Ammar : Around an hour.

Conversation 3

Ammar receives the visitor Ms. Ford at her office.

Ms. ford Good afternoon. I’m Natalie ford. I have an appointment with Mr. Yang.

Ammar Good afternoon, Ms. ford. Mr. Yang will see you in a minute. Have a seat, please.

Ms. ford Thank you.

Ammar Can I get you something to drink? Ms. ford No, thank you.

Conversation 4
Sung Jee: Good morning. I’m Chang Sung Jee. Mr. Yang is waiting for me.

Ammar: I’m afraid Mr. Yang is in a meeting at this moment, but it won’t take long.

Would you like to take a seat?

Sung Jee: Oh, yes. Thank you.

Ammar : Would you like a cup of coffee or tea?

Sung Jee: Yes, please. A cup of coffee. Thank you.

Practice
Activity 2
Listen to the model conversations. Pay attention to the stress and intonation of the speakers.

Practice speaking the above conversations with your partners. Take turns.

Make a conversation by using the above conversations as your model. Choose one situation from

1) receiving a visitor at Aden Airport,

2) making a small talk in the taxi or

3) receiving a visitor at the office.

Then practice speaking with a partner.

 Grammar
Modal Verbs for Requests and Offers
The verbs and expressions can, could, may, would, would like are used before
other verbs when you want to express requests or offers for welcoming some visitors. The
polite expressions and hospitality can show good manners. Study the following
examples.

Requests

o Could I see Mr. Thomson?

o May I see Mr. Todds?
o May I have your name, please?
o Could you wait a few seconds, please?
o I would like a green tea, please.

Offers

o Can I help you?

o Can I get you something to drink?
o Would you like to take a seat?
o Would you like some drinks?
o Would you like me to show you round our office?
o Would you like to follow me?

Comprehension Check
Exercise 2 : Complete sentences to express requests or offers.
Nida: ____________ a cup of coffee or tea?

Mr. Yang: No, thanks.

Mrs. Jones:_____________________ see Mrs. Cheng?

Nida: May I have your name, madam?

Nida: Mrs. Cheng is having a meeting. _____________________ wait for a while, please?

Mrs. Viney: OK, thanks.

Nida : ________________ to take a seat?

Peter : Yes, thank you.

Nida: What would you like to drink?

Mary:___________________________ a tea with milk. Thank you.

Role Play
Work with a partner. follow the given situation.

1. You are expecting to receive a visitor from another country at the airport
and at the office.

Student A: You are the host. Student B: You are the visitor.

Place Host Visitor

At the It is 8.00. You are meeting your respond to your host’s
airport visitor at the airport. He or greeting.

she arrives. Greet him or

her.

Ask about the flight. Answer. Ask if it is far to the

office.

Answer. Suggest you take a Say thank you.

taxi
or a limousine.

Ask your guest if he or she has Answer. Make a comment

ever been to your country about the place.
before.

In the taxi or a Ask your guest about the Answer.

limousine weather in his or her country.

Make a comment about the Agree. Make a comment about

traffic in Aden. the traffic in your country.

At the office Welcome the visitor. Greet the host. Tell that you
have an appointment with Mr.
Jones.

Tell the visitor that Mr. Jones Ask for drink.

is having an urgent meeting
and soon meets the visitor.
Offer drink.

Offer to show the office while Say yes.

waiting.
 2. Study model conversations and useful phrases for welcoming visitors
previously discussed in this unit to help you.
3. Roleplay the conversation. When you’ve finished, swap roles.

Summary
This unit focuses on ways dealing with foreign visitors. The suggested expressions
for different situations like picking up at the airport, extending a conversation in
the taxi, and welcoming a visitor at the office. Modal verbs used to express
requests or offers for welcoming some visitors are also presented.

Review Questions
1. What do you say if you would like to ask about the flight?
2. What question should you ask your guest if he or she has ever been to your country before?
3. What do you say to offer some drinks to your visitor?
4. If your visitor Mr. Thomson has to wait for Mr. Jones for fifteen minutes, what should you say
to him?
5. When your visitor says, “May I see Mr. Yang?”, what should you say back to him or her?