19 June
Telling Stories
Tell us about some experiences that happened to you or your friends.
Tell us a story you will never forget from your childhood.
Tell us a story you will never forget from your school years.
Tell us about a time you were really surprised.
Tell us about a funny moment you had with your family.
Tell us about a time you got lost. What happened?
Tell us about a time you helped someone.
Tell us about a scary experience you had.
Tell us about an unforgettable holiday.
Tell us about a time you were really lucky.
Tell us about a time you had a big adventure.
Tell us about a time you laughed so hard you couldn’t stop.
Tell us about the first time you tried something new.
Tell us about a moment that changed your life.
Bonus: Tell us a joke!
Related Words: storytelling, story, narrative, experience, memory, event, incident, adventure, moment, description, imagination, creativity, expression, communication, details, characters, plot, beginning, ending, emotion, humour, surprise, lesson, reflection, dialogue, scene, journey, perspective, narration, anecdote
Watch the video above and discuss what you learned from it during your Spoken Cafe session
The Joy of Reading: India
In today’s digital age, where social media and online content dominate entertainment, reading remains a favourite pastime for many around the world. A 2017 study highlights that reading habits vary widely across countries, with some nations dedicating impressive amounts of time to this timeless activity.
India tops the list, where the average person spends a remarkable 10 hours and 42 minutes per week reading. This illustrates the profound impact of the culture of books and literature on Indian society.
In comparison, Americans spend an average of only five hours and 42 minutes per week reading, nearly half the time spent by their Indian counterparts.
Other countries with high weekly reading averages include Thailand, China, the Philippines, and Egypt, rounding out the top five. These nations demonstrate how reading remains a thriving form of entertainment, even as digital consumption continues to grow globally.
For those who love books, this trend is a reminder that reading isn’t just a personal hobby but a cultural practice deeply valued in many parts of the world.
Watch the video above and discuss what you learned from it during your Spoken Cafe session
READ/SPEAK
What do you usually read? Do you read books, magazines or internet articles?
Do you prefer reading books or watching movies? Why?
What was the last book you read?
What is your favourite place to read?
What is the best book you have ever read?
Used to say that two things are completely different and it is not sensible to compare them:
“You’re comparing apples with oranges. They are two very different jobs, with very different types of stress.”
LEARN THE IDIOM AND SPEAK
Can you compare our country with any other countries you have been to? Or Istanbul with your hometown? What are the main differences and resemblances?