On this page, you will find the essential vocabulary related to discussing social issues and brainstorming ways to bring about positive change. Communicating about these topics requires a delicate balance of empathy, understanding, and effective communication skills. Scroll down to learn how to express our thoughts, propose solutions, engage in constructive conversations, and inspire change.
Prepared with love by: My Personal English Coach
Helloooo! Just a few words of support for those of you who are starting your experience in our Conversation Club and don’t feel very confident.
Don’t worry, we’re here for you!
On this page, you’ll find the vocabulary that can help you speak with your Club Partners (other MPEC students you’ll be paired with for guided conversations).
If you feel you need it, follow the first piece of advice in the image on the left and review all the language bits we think can be useful for you. We are your Coaches and we know you well! We know that using Idioms & Phrasal Verbs can be a real challenge, so those are often the language elements we’ll suggest you use 🙃
After the preparation (you’ll find both the vocabulary and the conversation questions on this page), we invite you to participate in the Club session. You have received an email with the ZOOM link for the session:
On Tuesdays, the Club takes place from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM, and on Thursdays, from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM. If you haven’t received the access instructions via email, please, get in touch with us:
If you want to practice more after the Club session, you can come back here to do the Follow Up activity (at the bottom of the page). Are you ready? Let’s begin!
10 Idioms (with definitions and sample sentences)
- Bite the bullet 💪🎯: To face a difficult situation bravely.
- Definition: To confront a challenging problem head-on.
- Sample Sentence: “I know public speaking scares you, but it’s time to bite the bullet and share your ideas.”
- Rise to the occasion 🚀🌟: To meet a challenge with determination and excellence.
- Definition: To perform exceptionally well in a challenging situation.
- Sample Sentence: “During the crisis, the community rose to the occasion and supported each other.”
- Make a difference 🌍✨: To have a positive impact on something.
- Definition: To create a noticeable positive change.
- Sample Sentence: “Every volunteer’s effort helps make a difference in the lives of those in need.”
- Turn a blind eye 🙈🚫: To ignore or disregard something intentionally.
- Definition: To pretend not to notice something, often due to inconvenience or discomfort.
- Sample Sentence: “It’s unfortunate when people turn a blind eye to social injustices.”
- Break the ice ❄️🧊: To start a conversation or interaction in a friendly manner.
- Definition: To initiate a friendly interaction in a new or uncomfortable situation.
- Sample Sentence: “She told a joke to break the ice and lighten the mood at the meeting.”
- Get the ball rolling ⚽🏃♂️: To start an activity or process.
- Definition: To initiate or start something.
- Sample Sentence: “Let’s get the ball rolling on our community clean-up project.”
- In the same boat ⛵🤝: To be in the same situation as someone else.
- Definition: To be facing a similar problem or circumstance.
- Sample Sentence: “We’re all in the same boat, trying to find solutions to homelessness.”
- Put your money where your mouth is 💰🗣️: To take action based on your words.
- Definition: To back up what you say with actual efforts or investments.
- Sample Sentence: “If you believe in the cause, you should put your money where your mouth is and donate.”
- Turn over a new leaf 🍂📖: To start fresh or make a positive change.
- Definition: To make a decision to improve oneself or one’s behavior.
- Sample Sentence: “After his mistake, he decided to turn over a new leaf and work harder.”
- Hold someone accountable 🙌🔍: To make someone responsible for their actions.
- Definition: To ensure someone is answerable for their choices or behavior.
- Sample Sentence: “To create change, we must hold individuals accountable for their environmental impact.”
Here Are 10 Phrasal Verbs You May Need For The Conversation Today
- Speak up 🗣️🔊: To express your opinion openly and confidently.
- Definition: To voice your thoughts or concerns clearly.
- Sample Sentence: “If you notice something wrong, don’t hesitate to speak up and address it.”
- Stand up for 🙌🤝: To support and defend someone or something.
- Definition: To protect or advocate for someone’s rights or beliefs.
- Sample Sentence: “She always stands up for what she believes is right.”
- Bring about 🌟🔄: To cause something to happen.
- Definition: To initiate or cause a change or event.
- Sample Sentence: “Their collaborative efforts will bring about positive change in the community.”
- Work towards 👫🏆: To make progress with dedication and effort.
- Definition: To strive and make consistent efforts to achieve a goal.
- Sample Sentence: “We need to work towards a society where everyone has equal opportunities.”
- Take on 🏋️♀️👊: To accept or assume responsibility or a challenge.
- Definition: To agree to do something challenging or demanding.
- Sample Sentence: “She’s always ready to take on new projects that promote social awareness.”
- Step up 🏃♂️👟: To increase efforts or take more responsibility.
- Definition: To rise to a challenge or take on a larger role.
- Sample Sentence: “When the team needed a leader, she was quick to step up.”
- Reach out to 🤝✉️: To contact someone for support or communication.
- Definition: To initiate contact with someone, often for assistance or connection.
- Sample Sentence: “We should reach out to local organisations to collaborate on our initiative.”
- Take part in 🙋♀️🙋♂️: To participate in an activity or event.
- Definition: To join and engage in a specific endeavour.
- Sample Sentence: “Many volunteers take part in cleaning up the park every weekend.”
- Work out 🏋️♂️💪: To resolve or find a solution to a problem.
- Definition: To find an answer or resolve a difficulty.
- Sample Sentence: “Let’s work out a plan to address the social issues we’re discussing.”
- Carry out 🚀🔍: To perform or execute a task or action.
- Definition: To complete a task or assignment as planned.
- Sample Sentence: “Our organisation is dedicated to carrying out projects that create positive change.”
Round 1 – Let’s Warm Up
- What social issue do you feel most passionate about, and why?
- Can you share a story about a time when you or someone you know made a positive impact on a community?
- If you could solve one social problem overnight, what would it be?
Round 2: Let’s Explore it!
- In your opinion, what’s the key to inspiring others to get involved in social issues?
- What do you think are the challenges people face when trying to bring about positive change?
- Can you recall a moment when someone’s kind action made a positive impact on you?
- How can education play a role in raising awareness about social issues?
Key Business Expressions for the Role Play
- “I’ve been thinking about how we can make this project stand out.”
- “I believe I have the leadership skills and experience to take the lead on this project.”
- “I want to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently.”
- “My goal is to drive the project forward and ensure its success.”
- “I’ve successfully managed similar projects in the past.”
- “I understand the importance of clear decision-making and coordination.”
- “I’ve come up with a plan to manage the project effectively.”
- “I’m confident that my leadership can help us achieve our goals.”
- “I’m glad you’re enthusiastic about the project.”
- “I value collaboration and the diverse strengths each team member brings.”
- “I think a shared leadership approach could be beneficial.”
- “Collaboration can lead to a more well-rounded project outcome.”
- “I see the value in having multiple perspectives in leadership.”
- “We could divide responsibilities based on our individual strengths.”
- “Let’s find a way to balance leadership roles and ensure everyone contributes.”
- “I’m open to finding a compromise that benefits both of us.”
Round 3: The Final One – We Role Play!
In this work environment role play, you need to effectively communicate your viewpoint and work towards a mutually beneficial solution.
Student A needs to present their case for taking the lead and demonstrate their leadership capabilities, while Student B focuses on promoting collaboration and finding common ground in terms of project responsibilities.
The ultimate goal is to ensure that you both contribute positively to the project’s success.
Scenario: Negotiating Project Responsibilities
Participants:
- Student A:
- Goal: Convince Student B to let them take the lead on the project.
- Tasks:
- Clearly state their desire to lead the project and their reasons for doing so.
- Highlight their leadership skills and previous experiences that support their ability to lead effectively.
- Present their plan for managing the project, including their strategy for decision-making and coordination.
- Address any concerns Student B might have about one person leading the project.
- Be open to compromise and finding a solution that aligns with both participants’ goals.
- Student B:
- Goal: Reach an agreement with Student A by discussing a balanced division of responsibilities.
- Tasks:
- Express their commitment to collaboration and valuing the strengths of the team.
- Share their perspective on shared leadership and how it can lead to a more well-rounded project outcome.
- Suggest a division of responsibilities that highlights both participants’ strengths.
- Address the potential benefits of having multiple perspectives in leadership.
- Be open to finding a compromise that allows Student A to lead certain aspects while also recognising their own leadership contributions.
After The Club: The Follow Up
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