Acting School and Movie Stars - Randall's ESL Cyber Listening Lab

Level:	Topic:	Speakers:	Length:
easy	introductions	man – woman	01:45

Pre-Listening Exercises

What kinds of questions do people ask when they meet other people for the first time? For example, they might ask about their jobs before they ask their names (example, “So, where do you work? How do you like your job?“)

Speak Up, Take a Stand! Instructions for Getting the Conversation Started

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.

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.
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?
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 self-assess your progress.

1. It’s important to smile when you meet someone new.
2. You should always shake hands when you meet a person.
3. It’s okay to ask personal questions when you meet someone.
4. Talking a lot helps make a good first impression.
5. It’s best to be quiet and polite when meeting new people.
6. People should dress nicely when meeting someone for the first time.
7. Saying the wrong thing is not a big problem when you first meet someone.
8. You should try to remember the person’s name right away.
9. Meeting new people is always exciting.
10. You don’t need to be honest right away when meeting someone new.

Idioms

“a balancing act” = a difficult situation where you try to do several different things at the same time
“Working and studying at the same time is a real balancing act.”

“high-and-mighty” = self-important and proud
“Sarah always acts high-and-mighty, and she thinks she is better than everyone else because she is a well-known movie star.”