Michelle's independent resources for ESL Students at Vancouver Community College

This is a Canadian ESL blog for Intermediate and Advanced Students who want to learn and improve their English. Each PAGE above contains thousands of free English lessons, tutorials and practice exercises to help you learn and improve your English grammar, reading, listening, pronunciation, speaking, writing and editing. Some of the resources are Canadian. Others are from around the world.

The resources on this Canadian blog are all free, and I spend a lot of my time working on it, so please consider becoming a SUPPORTER. I appreciate all the support I get. It is the fuel that keeps me going.

Membership is FREE.

NOTE: To leave a comment, click on the word "comment" at the bottom of the page. A comment page will pop up.


Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Speak English for "Just A Minute"

Are you trying to improve your spoken English or get a better mark on an important speaking test such as the IELTS?

Are you interested in improving one specific aspect of your speaking?     

Watch the following video for some instructions on a speaking game called Just a Minute. This is a game that help you improve your speaking skills while you have  fun at the same time.

In the game, you can focus on all aspects of spoken English, OR simply one aspect at a time, for example, grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation OR fluency.  In order to play. you need at least one partner, but playing with three people and even four people also works well.

This is a useful game to play in an English classroom. but the great thing about it is that you don't have to play it in class. You can play it with your friends anywhere you want - at home, on the bus or subway, at the beach or at the park. All you need is a series of topics and the instructions on how to pay the game. 

Watch and listen to the instructions:   



Watch two native speakers playing Just a Minute 


Here are a few more suggestions:

Watch or listen to yourselves

Try video-taping or audio taping yourself. For example, you could use a regular  video camera, or simply the video function of your smart phone. After playing several rounds of Just A Minute, stop, watch yourself and be prepared to discuss things you did right as well as areas where you need improvement.  Remember, many athletes do this all the time in order to improve their performance. Make sure you find both the good and the bad. No one does everything wrong, so you need to acknowledge the positive aspects of your performance. 


Focus on specific problems:

Focus on improving on specific areas you have problems with in grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, fluency. For example, if you have trouble consistently using the past tense(s) when you speak, choose topics that force you to use the past tense. Here are a few to get you started: your first day in school, first time away from home. first kiss, first date, first cigarette, first punishment, first teacher.

If you have problems with constantly saying uh...uh...uh..., focus on trying not to hesitate.  Change the rules so that instead of taking your place the first time you say ah, your partner simply counts the number of times you do it. Keep a record, and focus on reducing the number of times you stop and hesitate with ah..ah... In the Toastmasters organization, this person is called an ah counter. 


Practice New Vocabulary  

If you are trying to practice using new vocabulary, make it a rule that specific words MUST be built into your one minute speech. Even if you speak perfectly for one minute, you lose a point if you don't use ALL of the words.  These could be any kind of words: words about the environment, parenting, psychology, crime, descriptive adjectives, power verbs , etc.

Don't Get too Anxious  
As the speaker in the first video said, no one is perfect. Native speakers can have problems with this game, especially when it comes to repeating words, so don't expect too much of yourselves. Make sure you are serious about practicing, but make sure you have fun at the same time. Try to make some of the content entertaining and funny. Laugh at yourself and your mistakes.

Choose Appropriate topics

Choose topics are small and narrow enough for you to be able to come up with something without having to think too hard.  For example, the topics of  sausages, bottled water, showers, shoes, lip piercing are all topics that you can probably start talking about immediately. Controversial topics such as capital punishment and  euthanasia, however, are better topics for prepared speeches in which you can do some research.

Develop Some Strategies

There are a number of strategies you can use to help yourself improve speaking about anything spontaneously. One of them, is to keep up with things that are going on around you - not just  news, but interesting developments in the areas of psychology, science, technology, child care .....  The more you know,  the more you can say.

I will discuss other strategies you can use in another post, but in the meantime, go to the SPEAKING PAGE  for more information on preparing for important advanced level speaking tests,  making presentations or simply holding a conversation.

One Minute topics

I have several lists of potential ONE MINUTE TOPICS topics that I am currently revising. I will post them within the next day or two. 

91 comments:

  1. Good article. I pay my attention a lot on this "Don't Get too Anxious". I have been teaching English, though my English is not perfect. Many students too worry they can succeed learning English. I have ever had a students from other island. It was so far. He came to the village where I was teaching English "Kampung Inggris/English Village". When he saw other students spoke English with me, he came to me and ask me to back home, "I don't think I can speak English like the others." Most students said, I have been learning English for so long, but my English is still bad.

    They need to be motivated and need example that learning is easy and just need patient to follow the process.

    Nice to see you Michelle Morissette, I am from indonesia. Visit my blog to ForeingLanguageHunter.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I bookmark your blog. I'd like to make connection with many English and foreign language teachers.

      Delete
  2. I have been trying to improve English skills. So i am very happy to find your great tips which are great for speaking English fluently.

    ReplyDelete
  3. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Fantastic site - I look at it and find useful information and activities. I appreciate all your efforts.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Awesome Article! Beautifully presented information here in your article. I am really impressed from the wonderful writing. English language is best known language for better growth in jobs. For more information on learn English See here.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Guys.
    Am searching for good spoken English class in Chennai. Saw this page Top 10 Spoken English training centres in chennai on net. Is this good one.?

    ReplyDelete
  7. ENGLISH IS EASY TO LEAERN!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Lovely post!!Thank you for posting such an informative blog! In today’s date, learning English is must and the points which you have mentioned are great!!
    I will definitely share it to large number of audience and it will be helpful to all.

    Spoken English | Spoken English Classes |
    English Spoken | Spoken English Book

    ReplyDelete
  9. Very effective content provided by you. One can easily learn English following these steps in an interactive way. Thanks for publishing. I really like the post. One can also learn English effectively using an English Learning App where he an communicate with experts and improve English in an organised way.
    English Practice App | English Speaking App

    ReplyDelete
  10. Nice article
    Thanks for sharing the information
    Please visit the leadmirror to know your blog rank on the google.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work.
    تعلم الانجليزية للمبتدئين

    ReplyDelete
  12. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  13. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Really i found this article more informative, thanks for sharing this article! Also Check here
    ccc admit card download 2020

    ReplyDelete
  15. HI
    Are you Looking For Digital Marketing In Noida. We have Team of expert for Digital marketing internship with 100% placementBest Digital marketing Agnecy In Noida

    ReplyDelete
  16. Your Website is very good, Your Website impressed us a lot, We have liked your website very much.
    We have also created a website of Android App that you can see it.
    http://damodapk.com/
    http://infotodaypk.com/

    ReplyDelete
  17. Thank you for such an extremely engaging post that focuses on how one can improve his speaking skills which will ultimately make him comfortable with taking up the A2 English Test and many other like this.I guess price is the most important factor here and hence we at our platform are providing this for £200 instead of the original price of £250.

    ReplyDelete
  18. I feel speaking and listening English related stuff and other materials does help one to crack up many Secure English Language Tests(SELTs).As of now we are providing these tests at a price of £200 against the original price of £250.

    A2 English Test Booking

    ReplyDelete
  19. My name is Karina, I'm someone who has lived a life seemingly in the background, I must say this final indignity I have suffered almost too much to endure. You see, I have been sickly and weak since the day I was born and doomed to go through all my life a weakling. I seemed to have always suffered from one illness or another and could never play with the other children as I so desperately wanted to. Mother always made such a big fuss over me, also, making the situation worse as the other boys teased me mercilessly after they saw it. I was browsing  the internet searching on how i could be transformed into a powerful when i came across the email of a man named Lord Mark. who was a VAMPIRE so I told him that I has always dreamed of becoming a  VAMPIRES, All i did was just to follow the procedure that i was been told, and i bet you that procedure I took change my entire life to something i ever desire, freedom, sickness free, pains free, fame, influence, connections and even more that i can. Thanks to Lord Mark. Do you want a life full of interesting things? Do you want to have power and influence over others? To be charming and desirable? To have wealth, health, and longevity? contact the vampires creed today via email: Vampirelord7878@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  20. Tally Course | Tally Institutei
    Excellent blog, good to see someone is posting quality information. Thanks for sharing this useful information. Keep up the good work.

    ReplyDelete

  21. Very useful details provided by you. I hope it would be useful for many of the seekers. Thank you for sharing details here with us.

    English Learning App | tips to improve english speaking skills

    ReplyDelete
  22. Nice Blog. It contain useful information. It definitely helpful to students. Thanks for sharing with us.For more details visit us at english language courses melbourne

    ReplyDelete
  23. Thanks for posting such a blog it is really very informative. And useful for the freshers Keep posting the
    updates.

    BCA Notes

    ReplyDelete
  24. The information is extremely good and very helpful for me and keeps sharing your blogs.
    English Practice App | English Learning App

    ReplyDelete
  25. I read this article fully on the topic of the resemblance of most recent and preceding technologies, it’s remarkable article.

    SEO Training in Bangalore

    ReplyDelete
  26. Such an awesome post. I can now improve my English-speaking skills. It also will improve my English Grammar.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Are you looking for qatar online learning classes . Ziyyara Edutech is the best online tuition provider with an affordable, experienced, qualified and result oriented tutors who have expert knowledge of all subjects and all boards. Book your free demo on +91-9654271931

    ReplyDelete
  28. My own views are matching with the author and I have experienced such. Read our Blog

    Improving your English through social media

    ReplyDelete
  29. Nice blog! Your blog is very informative for English learners. Learning the English language is immensely important for all who are in an education system or any form of business communication. The best online English learning app namely HeyCleo helps you learn new idioms, phrases, practice tenses and to enhance grammar skills.
    online English learning app
    English idioms

    ReplyDelete
  30. This Is Most Useful And Give More Knowledge For Me And Let Me Share It For Alot Of People. And Dont Forget Ti Visit Me Back
    Spoken english classes in Aurangabad thanks .

    ReplyDelete
  31. 좋은 블로그 !!! 당신의 블로그를 전달하는 방식이 더 인상적입니다. 귀중한 정보에 감사드립니다. 정말 유용한 정보입니다. 좋은 공유.
    내 지식에 추가해 주셔서 감사합니다.온라인카지노

    ReplyDelete
  32. Login Your Vt Market Login Account To Read The Latest News About The Platform.

    ReplyDelete
  33. I like the helpful information you supply to your articles. I'll bookmark your weblog and test again here regularly. I am fairly certain I'll be informed many new stuff proper here!
    Best of luck for the following! 온라인카지노

    ReplyDelete
  34. I got this web site from my friend who informed me regarding this website and at the moment this time I am visiting
    this web page and reading very informative content here. 토 토

    ReplyDelete

  35. Thanks for giving this beautiful post. It is great article; even this is a very important topic. job news bd I find your site very useful. Many thanks for sharing these lovely tips. Many things can be done with this software. how to send pictures on tinder Specialty it is very helpful for beginner. I also learned a lot from your site. Thank you very much for sharing your post with us.https://nokiasoftware.net/
    best clipping path service provider
    https://clippingpathgenius.com/

    ReplyDelete
  36. Forex Broker USA Get Information On The Top Forex Brokers In Canada. Read Reviews, Compare The Best Trading Platforms, & Find The Right Broker For You.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Why is Trading Directory better than the rest? Our team has done an extensive research on online brokers and found that, unfortunately, many of them are not transparent with their data. This inspired us to make an honest and transparent comparison site that helps consumers find the right broker.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Whether you are a new trader or an experienced trader, Online Stock Broker provides all of the information you need to make an educated decision about which online broker to use. We have years of experience in this industry working alongside brokers, traders and market makers and we bring our knowledge and expertise to you with this guide.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Get the latest Siml Stock price with our real-time quote and chart. Check the performance of siml stock with historical data and read summary analysis on this stock in Our Servlogin Webpage.

    ReplyDelete
  40. If You Are Looking For Best Forex Brokers, Forex Trading Reviews Can Help You Find The Right One That Fits Your Trading Style. We Have An Extensive List Of Forex Reviews And Strategies Written By Our Vast Team Of Experienced Brokers. We Understand That It Is Very Important To Choose Right Forex Broker To Avoid Losing Money In Online Trading Since Every Broker Has Its Own Unique Characteristics And Features. That's Why We Publish Independent Reviews That Help Traders Make Optimal Decisions About Different Brokers And Their Services.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Get the latest Phoenix Craigs List price with our real-time quote and chart. Check the performance of Phoenix Craigs List with historical data and read summary analysis on this stock in Our Servlogin Webpage.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Market Forex Net Is The Best Place To Research And Compare Brokerages. We've Worked Hard To Find You The Best Brokers In Terms Of Commissions, Minimum Deposit, And Account Restrictions. Our Mission Is To Make It Easier For The Average Investor To Find, Compare And Review The Best Brokers On Their Own Time.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Get Real Time DBD Forums Market Overview, Displaying Live Data And Information On Demand. This Data Will Give You The Latest Updates On All DBD Forums As Well As Vital Information That You Need To Know Prior To Investing Or Trading.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Tradingzy Is The Best And Most Reliable Seo Company And Offers A Wide Variety Of Crypto Seo Services , Including An Affordable Monthly Subscription Service, One-time Links, And Blog Comments. With Any Of These Services, You Can Be Assured That Your Site Will Rank Higher In The Search Engine Results Page And Receive An Influx Of Targeted Traffic.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Never miss a stock price change from Acam Stock with our Live, Real Time Stock Market Overview! Most of the data is updated every 5 minutes to ensure that you are getting all of the latest Acam Stock change alerts as soon as they happen.

    ReplyDelete
  46. We have analyzed Gmhi Stock and other stock information for you so that you can stay up-to-date on the latest Gmhi Stock market trends.

    ReplyDelete
  47. We have analyzed Sos Stocktwits and other stock information for you so that you can stay up-to-date on the latest Sos Stocktwits market trends.

    ReplyDelete
  48. Stay on top of the market with our Live, Real-Time Stock Market overview. Get real time Dbd Forums quotes and interactive charts.

    ReplyDelete
  49. Ati Testing Login will help you to choose the bestAti Testing Login online account for you. We are committed to providing excellent online recommendation for home buyers and sellers of personal information.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Gteh Stocktwits Overview: Stay ahead of the market with our live and real time stock market overview. Get all of your favorite stocks in one place, and get alerted to live news at the same time!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Awesome article, it was exceptionally helpful! I simply began in this and I'm becoming more acquainted with it better! Cheers, keep doing awesome! english speaking course

    ReplyDelete
  52. Google giftcard may be useful for purchasing a variety of services and products or in earning in-app purchases.
    amazon com code
    amazon code
    Play.google.com/redeem
    amazon com code
    Prime video mytv

    ReplyDelete
  53. Forex Brokers Regulated In Malaysia is an informational guide to help you find the right online trader in order to maximize your trading experience. Our search results are sorted by price, regulation and client score.

    ReplyDelete
  54. This is a really good post. Must admit that you are amongst the best bloggers I have read. Thanks for posting this informative article.

    NDA 2 2022 Answer Key

    ReplyDelete
  55. We are providing the Best OET coaching in Noida. We are offering online ielts coaching in which you get courses with notes, extra classes, limited student batch etc facilities in which our teacher one to one interacts with students on an online mode. If you are looking for the best online elts coaching in Noida, then visit our institute or call for an enquiry.
    Call to know more = 9667728146

    ReplyDelete
  56. Nice Blog ! Target9Band Institute provides Best IELTS Classes in Ambala. Target9Band is one destination for fulfilling all needs for Best IELTS Coaching in Ambala. We provide exclusive IELTS coaching in IELTS speaking, IELTS Listening, IELTS reading and IELTS writing. Our students have obtained top results every time. At Target9Band we work as a team. The hard work and dedication of the trainers and students always produces immaculate results.

    ReplyDelete
  57. "Instagram video download serivce by MyInstaSave.com, allows to download Instagram videos and photos, reels online. It is a really simple Instagram video downloader, story saver etc.
    instagram video download
    instagram reels download
    instagram video downloader
    instagram story download"

    ReplyDelete
  58. Instagram video download serivce by MyInstaSave.com, allows to download Instagram videos and photos, reels online. It is a really simple Instagram video downloader, story saver etc.

    instagram video download
    instagram reels download
    instagram video downloader
    instagram story download

    ReplyDelete
  59. Everything is very transparent, and the problems are explained in great detail. It was very educational. Your website is a great resource. voot in usa click on this fpr more information if you want to watch voot in usa

    ReplyDelete
  60. Your blog is filled with unique good articles. I was impressed how well you express your thoughts.
    Buy Twitter followers India

    ReplyDelete
  61. Your writing style is so captivating! I found myself completely absorbed in your article from start to finish. If you need an Assignment Help contact us.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Nice Article, valuable content...thanks for sharing...
    Jewellery ERP Software Dubai
    Jewellery ERP Software Dubai

    ReplyDelete
  63. Very informative post! "Discover the art of writing a compelling Statement of Purpose SOP For Master degree. Learn how to captivate admissions committees with a concise, persuasive narrative that highlights your academic aspirations, achievements, and unique qualities. Gain insights and expert tips to create an impactful SOP that sets you apart and maximizes your chances of securing admission to your dream master's program."

    ReplyDelete
  64. Wow, this blog post couldn't have come at a better time! I've been struggling with my assignments lately, and your tips on seeking help and resources are incredibly useful. I'll definitely check out the recommended assignments help services mentioned here. Thank you for sharing this valuable information!

    ReplyDelete
  65. Welcome to "Reincarnation of the Suicidal Battle God"'s action-packed world! In this eagerly awaited chapter 74, we enter the gripping conclusion to this captivating book.Get ready for a thrilling voyage filled with drama, action, and unexpected turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
    This chapter of "Reincarnation of the Suicidal Battle God" sees the plot take an interesting turn as the main character faces a brand-new obstacle.Read more

    ReplyDelete
  66. Pepperboy, known as Jamil Price in the world comes from Little Rock, Arkansas.

    ReplyDelete
  67. “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” ― Harry S Truman길동노래방

    ReplyDelete
  68. Thanks for sharing this information. If you want who are the hottest celebrities visit Hottest Female Athletes

    ReplyDelete
  69. Protect your color with our top-quality Shampoo for Colored Hair from Colourway.pk!

    ReplyDelete
  70. Maintain your hair color with the perfect Shampoo for Colored Hair from Colourway.pk!

    ReplyDelete
  71. Exfoliate your skin with the effective Janssen Scrub 200ml from Giftpoint.com.pk!

    ReplyDelete

If you do not have a web site, or a Google account, click on Name/URL and simply leave your name. You do NOT need to be a member to leave a comment.