(Page 46)
IV. SPEAKING
Discussing necessary qualifications for joining a programme
1. Read the types of skills and experience participants in the SSEAYP should have. Match them with the possible reasons.
| Skills and experience | Reasons |
| 1. understanding the current issues in ASEAN countries | a. showing they have practical skills and knowledge |
| 2. having community work experience | b. being able to work in a team to solve problems |
| 3. speaking good English | c. discussing and offering solutions to the issues |
| 4. being confident speakers | d. meeting new people and making friends from different countries |
| 5. having teamwork skills | e. using English as the working language |
| 6. understanding different cultures | f. being able to present ideas clearly in front of an audience |
2. Use the sentences in the box to complete the conversation. Then practise it in pairs.
A. Don't you agree
B. I'm afraid I have to disagree with you
C. I think they need to understand the current issues in ASEAN countries
D. the most important thing is to speak English fluently
E. Why do you think so
Nick: What do you think is the most important skill or experience for SSEAYP participants to have?
Mai: (1) __________.
Nick: (2) __________?
Mai: Because they'll have to discuss and try to find solutions to these issues. (3) _____?
Nick: (4) _____. The working language is English so (5) _____ How will they take part in discussions if their English is not good enough?
Mai: OK, I agree with you, Nick.
The Ship for Southeast Asia and Japanese Youth Programme
(Page 47)
Tips
To give your opinion in a conversation or discussion, you should:
• state your opinion clearly, e.g. I think/l believe/In my opinion, ...
• ask for an opinion and explanation from other speakers, e.g. What about you? / Why do you think so?
• express your agreement or disagreement politely, e.g. I agree with you. / (I'm afraid) I have to disagree.
3. Work in pairs. Talk about the most important skill or experience for SSEAYP participants. Use the ideas in 1, and the model and tips in 2 to help you.
4. Work in groups. Discuss the skills and experience SSEAYP participants should have. Rank them in order of importance (1 - most important to 6 - least important). Report to the whole class.
