“Conversation Starter Lesson Series: Upper-Intermediate” is designed for intermediate-level ESL learners who want to improve their fluency and confidence in speaking English.
Each lesson includes an engaging reading material with audio, vocabulary and expressions, comprehension questions, and discussion questions to be used for one to one class, group class, or self-study for both online and offline classes.
Unit 4: Relationships and Communication
Story 05: The Introvert’s Guide to Building Relationships
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Introverts
- Reserved
- Introspective
- Diving into
- Delving
- Empathy
- Authentic
- Embrace
- Prioritize
- Cultivating
Read or Listen to the following passage:
Introverts tend to be more reserved and introspective individuals, which can make building relationships challenging for them. However, with a few tips and tricks, introverts can successfully build meaningful connections with others.
- Start Small: Instead of diving into deep, personal conversations right away, introverts can start small by engaging in small talk and gradually moving into more personal topics. This allows them to build trust and familiarity with the other person before delving into deeper conversations.
- Listen Actively: Introverts tend to be great listeners, and they should use this skill to their advantage. Active listening involves paying attention to the other person’s words and body language, asking thoughtful questions, and showing empathy. This helps introverts build a deeper understanding of the other person, which is essential in building meaningful relationships.
- Share Interests: Introverts tend to have few specific interests that they are passionate about. By sharing these interests with others, introverts can connect with like-minded individuals and build strong relationships based on shared values and interests.
- Be Authentic: Introverts often struggle with small talk and socializing because they feel like they have to be someone they’re not. However, being authentic is key to building real and meaningful relationships. Introverts should embrace their true selves and share their thoughts and feelings openly with others.
- Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Introverts tend to prefer a few close relationships rather than a large group of acquaintances. Instead of trying to build relationships with everyone they meet, introverts should focus on cultivating a few meaningful connections with people who they truly connect with.
In conclusion, introverts may find it challenging to build relationships, but they can use their unique strengths to their advantage. By starting small, listening actively, sharing interests, being authentic, and prioritizing quality over quantity, introverts can build meaningful relationships that bring joy and fulfillment to their lives.
Comprehension Questions:
- What are some challenges that introverts face when building relationships?
- What is active listening, and how can it help introverts build meaningful relationships?
- How can introverts use their interests to connect with others?
- What is the importance of being authentic when building relationships?
- Why should introverts prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to building relationships?
Conversations Starters:
- Do you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert? Why?
- In your opinion, what are some common misconceptions about introverts?
- How can someone who is reserved make new friends and build relationships?
- What are some tips and tricks for making small talk with new people?
- What is the importance of active listening in building meaningful relationships?
- How can someone show empathy towards others who may have different personalities or experiences?
- Why is it important to be authentic in your relationships with others?
- Do you prioritize having a few close friendships or having a large social circle? Why?
- What are some ways to cultivate meaningful connections with people who have similar interests or values?
- How can someone who is introspective use their personality traits to enhance their relationships with others?
