Speaking: Fluency & Coherence B1 - Lesson 3: Organizing Ideas in a Short Talk

Speaking: Fluency & Coherence B1

Organizing Ideas in a Short Talk

What you will learn: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to use a simple structure and special discourse markers to organize your ideas for a clear, coherent short talk.

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.

Question: "What do you think is the best thing about living in your city?"

Introduction

In my opinion, the best thing about living in Battambang is the peaceful atmosphere.

Body Point 1

First of all, it's not as crowded or noisy as Phnom Penh, so it's much more relaxing.

Body Point 2

Another reason is that the people are very friendly. For example, my neighbors are always kind.

Conclusion

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.
• 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.

P Point: State your main point or opinion clearly.

R Reason: Give a reason why you believe this.

E Example: Give a specific example to support your reason.

P Point: Restate your main point to conclude.

Practice Organizing Your Ideas 🎯

Activity 1: Organize the Ideas

Label each sentence with the correct discourse marker: (In my opinion / First of all / Another reason is / To sum up).

1. __________, it helps you to stay healthy and strong.
2. __________, I think exercise is very important for everyone.
3. __________, it is good for your mental health and can reduce stress.
4. __________, exercise is essential for both your body and your mind.

(Answers: 2. In my opinion, 1. First of all, 3. Another reason is, 4. To sum up)

Activity 2: Use the P.R.E.P. Method

Work with a partner. 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 to brainstorm keywords, then give your short talk to your partner.

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.

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). Use the P.R.E.P. method to plan your ideas. Practice it, and then deliver your short talk to a friend or classmate.