Activity Overview
Many customs differ from country to country. This activity allows students to practice their English along with the local customs expected when visiting a friend's house. Students will use the template provided to create a four cell storyboard that covers how to introduce yourself, how to make conversation, how to ask for help, and how to say goodbye. Students can practice their English and demonstrate their knowledge of the answers to these prompts by writing in the description boxes as well as including speech bubbles within their illustration. Afterwards, students can present their storyboards to the class adding a speaking component to the activity!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that shows how to go to a friend's house!
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Using the template provided, write your answers to the prompts in the description box.
- Create an illustration for each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Add speech bubbles for your characters to make conversation!
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 5 Points | Emerging 3 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing and Grammar usage | All of the written descriptions and speech bubbles with dialogue are detailed, complete and grammatically correct. | Most of the written descriptions and speech bubbles with dialogue are detailed and complete with only a few grammatical errors. | Only some of the written descriptions and speech bubbles with dialogue are complete with many grammatical errors. |
| Illustrations | All of the illustrations clearly depict the written descriptions using appropriate characters, scenes and items. | Most of the illustrations depict the written descriptions using appropriate characters, scenes and items. Some are unclear or unfinished. | Only a few of the illustrations depict the written descriptions using appropriate characters, scenes and items. Most are unclear or unfinished. |
| Effort | All of the work is complete, thorough, and neat. It is evident student put forth a lot of effort. | Most of the work is complete, thorough, and neat. It is evident student only put forth some effort. | Only some of the work is complete, thorough, and neat. It is evident student did not put forth adequate effort. |
How to Use Storyboards to Teach Polite Requests and Offers at a Friend's House in ESL
Introducing Polite Requests and Offers
Begin by discussing the importance of politeness in social interactions, especially when visiting a friend's house. Introduce common phrases and vocabulary used for making requests and offers, such as “Could I have…?”, “May I use…?”, or “Would you like…?”. Use role-playing or dialogues to demonstrate these phrases in context.
Brainstorming Scenarios for Storyboards
Have students brainstorm various scenarios where they might need to make requests or offers at a friend’s house. These could include asking for a drink, offering to help with chores, or requesting to use the bathroom. Encourage them to think of both simple and more complex scenarios, depending on their language proficiency.
Creating the Storyboards
Provide students with storyboard templates and art supplies. Instruct them to create a four-cell storyboard for each scenario they brainstormed. Each cell should depict a different aspect of the interaction, including the setting, the request or offer being made, the response, and a concluding polite phrase or gesture. Encourage them to use speech bubbles to include the exact phrases they would use.
Presenting and Discussing the Storyboards
Invite students to present their storyboards to the class. Encourage them to explain each scene and the phrases used. After each presentation, open the floor for discussion or questions. This step allows students to practice speaking and gives them an opportunity to learn from each other’s ideas. It also allows for feedback on language use and cultural appropriateness.
Frequently Asked Questions about At a Friend's House: Local Customs
What Are Common Conversation Topics to Avoid in Different Cultures?
Navigating conversation topics in various cultural contexts requires awareness and sensitivity. Generally, it's advisable to avoid topics that could be contentious or too personal, especially if you're not very familiar with the host. In many cultures, topics like politics, religion, and personal finances are considered inappropriate for light social gatherings. Discussions about sensitive historical events or cultural conflicts can also be risky. In more conservative societies, topics around personal relationships or sexuality may be taboo. Instead, safer topics include discussing interests such as travel, food, music, and cultural similarities and differences in a respectful way. Being observant and following the host's lead in conversation can also be a good strategy.
What Kind of Gift Should I Bring When Visiting a Friend’s House in a Different Culture?
When visiting a friend's house, especially in a culture different from your own, bringing a small gift as a token of appreciation is a thoughtful gesture. The choice of gift can depend on the cultural context. In many Western cultures, a bottle of wine, a bouquet of flowers, or a box of chocolates is usually well-received. In Asian cultures, gifts that are not overly extravagant and are elegantly wrapped are appreciated. It's important to be aware of any cultural taboos - for instance, in some cultures, certain types of flowers or colors may be associated with funerals or bad luck. In Middle Eastern cultures, bringing sweets or pastries can be a good choice. Always present the gift with both hands as a sign of respect, particularly in Asian cultures.
How Can I Show Appreciation for the Hospitality Received?
Expressing gratitude for hospitality is important in all cultures. A simple and heartfelt "thank you" at the end of the visit is essential. Follow-up gestures like sending a thank-you note, message, or email the next day are also highly appreciated and can reinforce your appreciation. In some cultures, inviting the host to your home in return can be a way of showing gratitude. If you have noticed any specific preferences or interests of your host during your visit, mentioning these in your thank-you message can add a personal touch. Additionally, offering help with cleaning up after a meal or activity during the visit can be a practical way to show your appreciation and respect for the host's efforts.
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