Session Two
Phonetic Drills (Improve your English, Watch the video)
Phonetic drill
The northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are beautiful dancing ribbons of light that have captivated people for millennia. But for all its beauty, this spectacular light show is a rather violent event. The northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth's upper atmosphere at high speeds, but our planet's magnetic field protects us from the onslaught. As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and sky-watchers alike.
Phonetic drill
A high income is a badge of success in many countries, with large second homes, family yachts, sports cars or champagne sprees in nightclubs. But, Swedes have a deep-rooted aversion to talking about their cash. While discussing wealth feels perfectly appropriate in some parts of the world, nobody in Stockholm is proud of being rich. Jantelagen, or the Law of Jante, is a Scandinavian social concept that emphasises conformity, equality, and discourages excessive displays of individuality or personal achievement. Jantelagen promotes humility, modesty, and a strong emphasis on the well-being of the community over individual ambition and recognition.
Words to look out for
Badge - /bædʒ/
Yacht - /jɒt/
Champagne - /ʃæmˈpeɪn/
Excessive - /ɪkˈsesɪv/
Emphasis - /ˈemfəsɪs/
Get the job you deserve
Tips and Strategies
Elements of Communication
Sample telephone conversation required between Ravi and Sheela for a product inquiry
Ring... Ring...
Sheela (Receptionist): Good morning, ABC Electronics. This is Sheela speaking. How may I assist you?
Ravi: Good morning, Sheela. My name is Ravi, and I'm calling to inquire about your latest model of air conditioner.
Sheela: Thank you for calling, Ravi. I'd be happy to help you with that. Could you please hold for a moment while I connect you to our sales department?
Ravi: Sure, thank you.
(Hold music plays briefly)
Rahul (Sales Representative): Good morning, Ravi. This is Rahul from the sales department. How can I assist you today?
Ravi: Hi Rahul. I'm interested in learning more about your new air conditioner model. Could you tell me about its features and price?
Rahul: Absolutely! Our latest model is the XYZ Cool Pro. It's a 1.5-ton split AC with inverter technology, which helps save energy. It also has a 5-star energy rating, a smart cooling feature that adjusts the temperature automatically, and a built-in air purifier. The price for this model is currently ₹45,000.
Ravi: That sounds great! Do you offer any discounts or promotions at the moment?
Rahul: Yes, we have a special summer offer running right now. If you purchase the XYZ Cool Pro before the end of this month, you'll get a free installation and a 2-year extended warranty.
Ravi: That's a very attractive offer. Thank you for the information, Rahul. I'll discuss this with my family and get back to you soon.
Rahul: You're most welcome, Ravi. Please feel free to call us if you have any further questions. We're always happy to help.
Ravi: Thank you. Have a good day.
Rahul: You too, Ravi. Goodbye.
Ring... Ring...
Sheela (Receptionist): Good morning, XYZ Hotel Kuala Lumpur. This is Sheela speaking. How may I assist you?
John: Hello Sheela, my name is John and I'm calling from Singapore. I'd like to book a room for three people for four nights, starting from tomorrow.
Sheela: Welcome to Kuala Lumpur, Mr. John! We'd be delighted to have you. Let me check our availability for you. What type of room are you looking for?
John: We'd prefer a room with two beds and a city view, if possible.
Sheela: (Typing) Yes, we have a Deluxe Twin Room with a stunning view of the Petronas Twin Towers available for your dates. Would you like me to reserve it for you?
John: That sounds perfect. Yes, please.
Sheela: Wonderful! Could I please have your name and contact details for the reservation?
John: Certainly. It's John Smith, and my email is johnsmith@email.com. My friends, Amana and Alex, will be joining me.
Sheela: Thank you, Mr. Smith. We look forward to your arrival tomorrow. While I have you on the line, would you like me to share some information about popular tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur?
John: That would be very helpful, thank you.
Sheela: Of course! Some must-visit places include the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, the Batu Caves with their Hindu shrines, the vibrant Petaling Street night market, and the beautiful Perdana Botanical Gardens. We also have a variety of museums, cultural centers, and shopping malls to explore.
Amana (in the background): Oh, don't forget to mention the delicious food in Jalan Alor!
John: (Chuckles) Thank you, Amana. We're definitely looking forward to trying the local cuisine.
Sheela: You're absolutely right, Ms. Amana! Jalan Alor is a food lover's paradise. I can provide you with more recommendations upon your arrival. Is there anything else I can assist you with today?
Alex (in the background): What about transportation options from the airport?
John: Yes, that's a good question. How do we get to the hotel from the airport?
Sheela: The easiest options are either by taxi or train. The KLIA Ekspres train is the fastest and most convenient, taking you directly to KL Sentral station in the city center. From there, it's a short taxi ride to the hotel. We can also arrange a hotel car for you upon request.
John: Thank you, Sheela. We'll probably take the train. We appreciate your help and look forward to our stay.
Sheela: You're most welcome, Mr. John. Have a pleasant trip, and we'll see you soon in Kuala Lumpur!