In the past, many students practiced English with their pen friends—they sent letters to people all around the world. However, we now send emails to others and chat with people who live quite far away on the Internet.
Here’s some advice on how to succeed in your online language exchanges (交流):
How to start a conversation when speaking English online? When you speak to somebody online, start by asking “Yes or No” questions. Use questions such as “Do you like...?” or “Can you...?” or “Have you ever...?”
Remember your goal. You are trying to learn about the other person. Think about things you enjoy and share your own experiences to find that you have similar interests. If you only ask questions, you will sound like a policeman or a policewoman!
How to keep a conversation going? Listen carefully. In that way, you can get to know somebody well. When you know him or her well, you will have more to talk about. Then ask follow-up questions. After you “listen”, use what you “hear” to learn more about that person. Use “open ended” questions, such as “What do you think of...?” or “What was the most interesting experience...?”
Besides, remember some basic rules for online language exchanges:
Be patient. Do not try to find a good friend right away.
Be careful. Don’t give any personal information on the Internet, especially your address, telephone number, and even your real name. It’s very dangerous.
【小题1】How many pieces of advice does the writer give us?【小题2】Who did many students practice English with in the past?
They practiced English with
【小题3】What should you do in order to find similar interests?
We should think about things we enjoy and
【小题4】What does the writer think of giving personal information online?
It’s
【小题5】What does the writer want to tell us?
The writer wants to tell us
