The Conversation Partners program is designed to not only help internationals practice their conversational English skills, but to foster friendships and provide opportunities to learn about culture, language, and more.
The following lesson plan ideas are written to help American and international friends begin conversations. Each lesson has a topic, a real-life resource or article that can be used to practice reading fluency and pronunciation, and discussion questions to help provide a framework for conversational practice.
Conversation Topics and Plans
Click an image below to open the corresponding lesson plan. Please note: Files are in Microsoft Word (.docx) format so that you can edit and adjust to fit your circumstance. Please feel free to edit, replace with your logo, etc.
Note: Lesson-building is in progress; check back for new lessons added weekly!
Initial Conversations
This lesson provides a framework to get to know your international friend using a guide called the "Five Fs".
Small Talk
Making small talk can be difficult for English learners. This lesson will discuss how to make small talk.
What is Rude?
What's rude in the United States is often not rude in another country or culture. This lesson will explore this topic.
Generosity
This lesson considers the topic of generosity, and why people decide to give sacrificially.
Taking Risks
This lesson considers risk-taking, including why we take risks, and how do we evaluate risk.
Good Communication
This lesson considers the importance of communcation, especially for leaders.
Holiday Traditions
We all have traditions that make celebrating certain holidays unique. In this lesson, we'll share about traditions we enjoy.
Stress Management
Stress management is critical to our health. This lesson gives guidance to discuss ways to manage stress.
Getting Motivated
What motivates us? How do we stay motivated during times of discouragement? This lesson discusses views on motivation.
Christmas
This lesson explores the meaning of Christmas and how it is celebrated.
Value of Education
This lesson focuses on the goals and values of education as it relates to our lives.
Culture Shock
Discuss culture shock, how to adjust to a new culture, and what specific questions your friend may have.
Using Your Time
Time is limited! In this less you'll learn about your friend's views on how to manage time.
Thanksgiving
In this lesson we'll discuss the Thanksgiving holiday, as well as what were thankful for!
Making Resolutions
This lesson explores New Year's Resolutions, and how to achieve success in keeping them.
Servant Leadership
This lesson looks at the idea of servant leadership, and why its an important quality.