General Listening Quiz
“Could I have your name, Please?”
| Level | Topic | Speakers | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy | Introductions | Man – Woman | 01:27 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
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What names in your language are hard to say or spell? Give examples.
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Do names in your country have special meanings?
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Have you ever wanted to change your name? Why or why not?
Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!
These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.
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In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.
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In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?
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For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and check your progress.
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- Has anyone ever said your name the wrong way? How did you feel?
- Would you ever change your name? What new name would you choose?
- Do you think names have special meanings? What does your name mean?
- Is it important for teachers to learn how to say students’ names correctly? Why?
- Do people in your country use nicknames often? What are some examples?
- How do you feel when someone remembers your name?
- Do you think names can show something about a person’s culture?
- Have you ever met someone with the same name as you? What was that like?
- Which do you think is harder: spelling someone’s name or pronouncing it correctly? Why?
Idioms
“spell it out” = to explain something very clearly
“The receptionist asked Emelia to spell it out so she could write the name correctly.”
“get it straight” = to make sure something is correct or understood
“She wanted to get it straight before printing Emelia’s registration form.”
Listening Exercise
Listen to the recording and answer the questions.
Post-Listening Exercise
- Have you ever had someone spell your name incorrectly? How did you respond?
- Do you think unusual names make introductions more difficult? Why or why not?
- How can people politely ask others to repeat or spell their name?
Note About the Conversation:
Emelia says, “No one asked my opinion about it,” as a joke, and the receptionist laughs. Emelia is making fun of herself and the situation. Her name has an unusual spelling. Emelia means that her parents chose her name; she didn’t. Everyone knows we don’t choose our own names, so the receptionist laughs because it’s a funny and friendly topic. He isn’t laughing at her, but with her.
It’s a way to make the conversation light and relaxed.
Online Investigation
Use the internet to learn about naming customs in three different countries. Answer these questions:
- How are names typically written (first name first, family name first)?
- Are there rules for spelling or pronunciation in official forms?
- Are people often asked to spell their names for official documents in these countries?
- Are there unique cultural practices when introducing yourself?