10 Effective Strategies for Teaching Conversational English

In the field of English language education, mastering conversational English skills is often the ultimate goal for students. For teachers, guiding learners to fluency in spoken English requires a strategic approach that fosters engagement, confidence, and meaningful communication. In this article we explore proven techniques and strategies for effective teaching of conversational English. These strategies shift from correctness to communication, from silence to confident expression, and from structured lessons to spontaneous, engaging conversations.

1. Preparation of Discussion Topics:

Prepare a list of variety discussion topics in advance to serve as conversation starting points. These topics should cover a wide range of subjects, from hobbies and news to art and personal experiences. The purpose of having a list is not to confine discussions but to offer a starting point and a reservoir of ideas. It allows teachers to introduce interesting themes and provides students with ample opportunities to express their thoughts and opinions.

2. Embrace Silence:

During conversational English classes, silence is natural and should not be feared. Teachers should avoid the urge to fill the gap immediately. Students need time to process questions and formulate responses, especially when translating from their native language. Allowing moments of silence fosters a conducive environment where students can gather their thoughts, construct sentences, and speak confidently.

3. Prioritize Student Talking Time (STT):

In fluency-based classes, the focus should be on maximizing student talking time (STT) while minimizing teacher talking time (TTT). Students learn best by actively participating and speaking in English. Teachers should create opportunities for students to engage in discussions, express their ideas, and practice their speaking skills. Encouraging students to lead the conversation ensures they gain confidence and fluency in expressing themselves.

4. Use Open-Ended Questions:

Open-ended questions stimulate critical thinking and encourage students to respond with detailed and thoughtful answers. These questions do not have a simple yes or no answer, prompting students to elaborate and share more about their thoughts and experiences. Open-ended questions facilitate discussions that delve deeper into topics, allowing students to express opinions, explore ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations.

5. Take Notes for constructive feedback:

Taking notes during discussions allows teachers to identify recurring pronunciation errors or vocabulary misuse. Instead of interrupting students while they are speaking, teachers can refer to their notes later to provide targeted feedback. This approach maintains the flow of the conversation while enabling constructive feedback, helping students improve their language skills effectively.

6. Assign Homework:

Assigning relevant homework tasks extends the learning beyond the classroom. Tasks such as reading articles, listening to podcasts, or preparing presentations encourage students to explore topics independently. Homework assignments not only enhance their understanding of the subject matter but also prepare them to actively participate in subsequent discussions, enriching the overall learning experience.

7. Be Flexible in Discussions:

Flexibility is key in conversational English classes. Teachers should be open to allowing conversations to evolve naturally, even if it means deviating from their lesson plans. By following the students’ interests and enthusiasm, teachers can create a dynamic learning environment where students feel motivated to participate actively. This spontaneity fosters genuine conversations and keeps the class engaging and interactive.

8. Focus on Communication and Fluency:

In conversational English classes, the primary focus should be on effective communication and fluency rather than accuracy.  Encouraging students to express their ideas clearly and coherently promotes confidence in using the language. Teachers should emphasize the importance of conveying meaning accurately, fostering an environment where students feel encouraged to communicate without excessive concern for minor errors.

9. Student-Directed Topics:

Allowing students to choose discussion topics empowers them and increases their engagement. By selecting subjects they are passionate about or interested in, students are more likely to participate actively and contribute meaningfully to the conversation. Student-directed topics create a sense of ownership, making the learning experience more personalized and relevant to their lives.

10. Facilitate Conversation Games:

Incorporating conversation games adds an element of fun and interactivity to the learning process. Games such as role-plays, discussion-based board games, or topic-based challenges create a playful atmosphere while encouraging students to communicate effectively. These games provide structured opportunities for students to practice conversational English, enhancing their speaking skills in an enjoyable and engaging manner.