Staying on topic

Learning Objectives

Produce phrases to stay on topics in discussions

Staying on topic is when comments and questions in a discussion are relative to the topic and a way to maintain a conversation.

Staying on topic

Examples

Show interest “That is so interesting!”                                                                       “I didn’t know that…”                                                                          “Tell me more about…”
Ask questions “How did that situation end for you?”                                                  “Where can I get more information about that?”                          “Do you know others I can talk to about…”
Agree “I know exactly what you are saying…”                                              “The same thing happened to me…”                                                    “Yes, you are right about…”
Disagree “OK, what about…”                                                                              “I see, but I think…”                                                                              “What about…”
Add information “Yes, and also…”                                                                                “In addition…”                                                                                        “There is also…”

 

tips for teaching

Length of discussions vary depending on the context and setting.

Alternating speaking turns for participants in a discussion is good practice.