Speaking: Fluency & Coherence B1
Organizing Ideas in a Short Talk
Listen to the model answer here.
Structuring a Short Talk: A Model 🏗️
When you speak for a longer time, you need to organize your ideas. A clear structure makes you easier to understand and sound more fluent.
In my opinion, the best thing about living in Battambang is the peaceful atmosphere.
First of all, it's not as crowded or noisy as Phnom Penh, so it's much more relaxing.
Another reason is that the people are very friendly. For example, my neighbors are always kind.
So, to sum up, I think it's a great place to live because it's peaceful and the people are friendly.
Tips for a Clear Structure
🗣️ Intonation & Pausing for Structure
Discourse markers are powerful signals. To make them effective, pause briefly after them. This creates "chunks" of information that are easy for your listener to follow.
- Say the discourse marker with a clear, falling intonation, then pause slightly.
- Listen: "First of all, ↘ [pause] the city is not too crowded."
- Listen: "In conclusion, ↘ [pause] I believe it's a wonderful place."
💡 The P.R.E.P. Method for Short Talks
If you need to give a short, organized talk, you can use this simple and memorable method.
Practice Organizing Your Ideas 🎯
Activity 1: Choose the Right Marker
Select the best discourse marker from the dropdown for each sentence. Click "Check" to see the answers.
- I think exercise is very important for everyone.
- it helps you to stay healthy and strong.
- it is good for your mental health and can reduce stress.
- exercise is essential for both your body and your mind.
Activity 2: Use the P.R.E.P. Method
Work with a partner or think alone. Choose one of these topics: "Why is it important to learn English?" OR "What is the best holiday in Cambodia?". Use the P.R.E.P. method (Point, Reason, Example, Point) to plan keywords, then try to give your short talk.
My P.R.E.P. Notes (Example: Learning English)
P (Point): Learning English is very useful.
R (Reason): It opens many job opportunities.
E (Example): For example, many jobs in tourism or international companies require English.
P (Point): So, knowing English can help you find a better job.
Your Storytelling Toolkit (Discourse Markers)
- In my opinion...A phrase to introduce your main point or belief.
- First of all... / Secondly...Phrases to introduce your first and second reasons.
- Another reason is...A phrase to add another supporting point.
- For example...A phrase to introduce a specific example.
- In conclusion... / To sum up...Phrases to signal the end of your talk and summarize your idea.
- StructureThe way parts are arranged or put together to form a whole.
- CoherentLogical and consistent; easy to understand.
- Discourse MarkerWords or phrases like 'First of all', 'So', 'Another reason is' that connect ideas.
Your Fluency Mission ⭐
This week, your mission is to give one organized short talk.
- Choose a topic you are interested in (e.g., your favorite movie, your future plans, why you like Siem Reap).
- Use the P.R.E.P. method to plan your ideas (just keywords are okay).
- Practice saying it, using discourse markers (like First of all, For example, To sum up).
- Deliver your short talk (about 30-60 seconds) to a friend, classmate, or record yourself.