University closed – Friday, Jan. 19

Due to the anticipated significant winter storm expected for the Akron area overnight and into tomorrow, all University of Akron campuses will be closed on Friday, Jan. 19.

All classes and labs are canceled.

See complete details.

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students for conversation partners in ELI at the university of akron.

Tips and Techniques for Conversation Partners Program

Become an effective conversation partner!

As a Conversation Partner, your main role is to facilitate conversation practice, not be an ESL teacher or tutor. You should not assist the international students with their classroom assignments. A natural and personable conversation is more important than accurate English usage.

Tips and techniques

  • Speak at a natural pace. Slow down when you feel it is necessary to help your partner understand.
  • You can repeat or paraphrase, as well as ask your partner to repeat if you have trouble understanding.
  • Keep a normal volume to your voice.
  • Elaborate topics instead of answering “interview” questions, short yes/no questions, unrelated topics.
  • Bring “props” such as pictures of your family, books that are of interest, magazine articles, etc.
  • Use gestures, non-verbal cues, and facial expressions to explain your question or topic.
  • You can ask your partner to write down their question or repeat “I’m sorry but I don’t understand”.
  • Discourage native language use as much as possible.
  • Don’t be too serious.
  • Encourage “small talk” and try to use new vocabulary.
  • Be patient and sensitive to their cultural perspectives.

Remember! Don’t categorize students or assume cultural/background knowledge. Don’t judge the student’s English skills on their speaking ability. Encourage them to make friends outside of class.

Prepare for your conversation

It is helpful to prepare a list of questions/topics ahead of time. Some people may feel shy or worried about their English skills, so think about ways to extend a topic if your partner appears to have little to say. Ask your partner what topics they would like to discuss as well.

Conversation topic ideas:

  • Get acquainted
    • What brings them to The University of Akron
    • Where do they live?
    • Do they have family here in the U.S., etc.
  • Compare the differences between the U.S. and their country
    • Work, climate, educational system, cuisine, etc.
    • How are prices compared to the U.S.?
    • What types of clothes, cars, homes, do they have?
  • Traveling in their country
    • Attractions, holiday destinations, they're favorite places to go, etc.
  • Music
    • Favorite type of music, singer, what type of musical instruments do they play, do they sing, etc.
  • Cuisine and traditions
    • What are their favorite foods in their country and the U.S.?
    • Do they cook?
    • What restaurants do they like here in the Akron area?
    • Share your favorite places to eat.

Remember to have fun and enjoy this experience. It is a wonderful learning experience for both of you!

Questions?

If you have any questions or want more information contact Nicola Kille, Student Services Counselor in the English Language Institute at international@uakron.edu.