Business meetings vary greatly in formality, relationships, roles, and company culture, making it challenging to create a universal worksheet or lesson. However, the beginnings and endings of English meetings follow certain fixed patterns that are beneficial to teach to most students. Focusing on these aspects allows for quick and smooth roleplays, instilling a sense of accomplishment after each speaking activity.
This article offers guidance on presenting and practicing essential language for the initial and final moments of meetings. For additional activities and resources, refer to this e-book: https://www.usingenglish.com/e-books/teaching-meetings/
What to teach about starting and ending meetings
Key elements of business meetings include:
- Meeting introductions
- Polite and friendly language
- Small talk
- Transition phrases
- Handling meeting logistics
- Introducing meeting topics
- Reaching agreements
- Summarizing discussions
- Any other business (AOB)
- Discussing future contact
Students need to learn phrases for these steps, adjusting formality levels based on internal and external meeting contexts. They should also be aware of cultural nuances and common mistakes. Cultural differences in meeting starts and ends cover aspects like punctuality, body language, and seating arrangements.
Common errors in meeting phrases include improper introductions, mixing up greetings, and using abrupt language. Teaching these nuances and providing practice opportunities can enhance students’ meeting skills.
How to present and practice starting and ending meetings
Starting with simple activities like categorizing phrases as starting or ending can help students grasp basic concepts. Progress to discussing cultural differences and suitable language for various scenarios.
Introducing tips and useful phrases, along with cultural differences, can further enhance students’ understanding and language skills for meetings. Activities focusing on responses to meeting phrases and roleplaying different scenarios can help students practice effectively.
Memorization activities like disappearing text games and problem-solving roleplays can solidify students’ knowledge and prepare them for real-life meeting situations. Error correction exercises and games can help identify and rectify common language errors.
