Main Lesson
Imagine you were there
Look at the picture and make a small story out of it. Keep it natural and follow the 3 star structure.
1. Can you explain situations well?
Situation 1
Think about a funny moment and share it with me!
Situation 2
Think about a sad time of your life and share it with me!
2. Which one is better?
Mark
Angela
❓Who explained the situation well, and what made it effective?
3. How do natives describe situations?
⭐ Use Native Connectors
→ These connect events smoothly, so you don’t sound robotic.
→ Example: so, then, after that, finally, the next thing I know…
⭐ Use Native Fillers
→ These help you sound more casual and realistic.
→ Example: you know, like, basically, actually, so yeah, I mean…
⭐ Use Emotion Words
→ These show feelings, which native speakers ALWAYS add.
→ Example: luckily, unfortunately, honestly, thankfully…
Example 1 (new version)
So yesterday, I kind of locked myself out of my apartment. I was leaving for work, and then, you know, I closed the door without checking my keys. The next thing I know, the door clicks shut and I’m standing there like, “Seriously?” It was like… freezing outside, so I had to wait for the building manager. Thankfully, he came after about 15 minutes, but yeah… I was pretty embarrassed and ended up being late for work.
Example 2 (old version)
I locked myself out of my apartment the other day. It happened this morning when I rushed out to take out the trash, and the door closed behind me. I didn’t have my phone or my keys. So I had to wait outside for almost 15 minutes until my neighbor helped me contact the building manager.
4. Let’s practice!
Situation 1
Last week during a Zoom meeting, you forgot your camera was on.
• You started doing something silly.
• Someone said your name, and you froze.
• You tried to act normal, but it was too late.
Situation 2
Last week, you woke up and realized your heater stopped working.
• Your room was freezing, and you could see your breath.
• …
• …
Situation 3
Last week, your manager asked you to prepare a presentation.
• You completed it, but the file wouldn’t open right before the meeting.
• …
• …
Situation 4
Yesterday, you tried to make hot chocolate at home.
• The milk boiled over while you were checking your phone.
• …
• …