Saturday, 16 February 2013

Be polite!!

Yesterday we went over indirect & direct questions...

Now you understand that in being polite we must ask questions in a more 'flowery' way, so that we don't appear too forward.

Here is the PowerPoint , so you can try the exercises again : Indirect Questions 

Remember that intonation / the way you speak is also important when being polite...

"Fawlty Towers" is a British comedy from the 70s, considered one of the classics of the 20th Century. 

Mr. Fawlty runs a 'Bed & Breakfast', which is like a small hotel, as you will see they encounter many problems in communication, not only with clients but with Manuel their Spanish porter... Note how Mr. Fawlty will ask questions indirectly initially and later (after losing his patience), far more directly!

Have a look at this clip, and note the intonation in the various polite requests! 




Activity : Imagine you have just arrived in London, you need to ask strangers for help, write your own direct -> indirect questions that would help you in the situation!

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