Polite Requests

Step 1

For higher level students, ask them to think of annoying habits that their colleagues do/might do (e.g. open the window when it’s cold, talking loudly on the phone, smoking in the building, etc.)

Step 2

Then put students into pairs/groups. First students have to confront their colleagues (choosing a few of the points brainstormed earlier) in a rude manner.

Students always love this! It's lots of fun and a great way for them to de-stress after a hard day's work!

Step 3

Then brainstorm together how to politely raise problems:

• ‘I wonder if you could _____?’,
• ‘I’m sorry to mention this, but…’ etc.

Step 4

Then students redo the role play, although this time in a polite manner. Don't forget to round up the activity with some feedback.