When things get hard: because, so and although in a talk
Read the dialog on page 50 of your book (a speech and facing nerves). We use our own dialog below. When we speak about a hard moment, three small words help us make clear, longer sentences. Because gives the reason: I felt nervous because it was my first time. So gives the result: I was nervous, so I practised a lot. Although shows a contrast, a surprise: Although I was nervous, I smiled. Do not use although and but in the same sentence. We will study these connectors fully in Unit 4, so today use them only in speaking with simple sentences. Real Talk phrases make a conversation natural: Really? shows surprise, To be honest means I will be truthful, I agree shows that you think the same, and I didn’t expect that, but … says you were surprised and then give a view.
| Word | Job | Example |
|---|---|---|
| because | reason | I was worried because the contest was tomorrow. |
| so | result | I was worried, so I practised. |
| although | contrast | Although it was hard, I did not give up. |
| Real Talk | reaction | Really? / To be honest, … / I agree. |
I’m worried about the spelling contest because it is tomorrow.
Really? You practised every day.
To be honest, I forgot two long words yesterday, so I felt discouraged.
I understand. Although it is hard, you can use a trick.
I didn’t expect that advice, but I like it. What is the trick?
Write each word three times and say the letters aloud.
I agree. I will try it tonight.
Hard-moment role-play. Pick a situation: a sports day, a spelling contest or a short talk in class. One person tells a hard moment with because, so and although; the other reacts with Really?, To be honest, I agree or I didn’t expect that, but … Swap parts and change the situation.