ESL Students Require English Language Conversation Skills

There are several dictionary definitions for "Conversation".

Conversation: noun, an informal spoken exchange of news and ideas between two or more people. Conversation: an informal talk with somebody, especially about opinions, ideas, feelings, or everyday matters.

Conversation: a talk between two or more people in which thoughts, feelings and ideas are expressed, questions are asked and answered, or news and information are exchanged.

There are several dictionary Synonyms for "Conversation": conference, discourse, discussion, dialogue, chat, speech, oral speech or spoken communication, spoken language, talk, voice communication.

There are several adjectives that help identify or describe conversations: casual, polite, informal, formal, two-way, face-to-face and everyday.

There are several nouns that identify a specific type of conversation: conference, interview, gossip, exchange of confidences, consultation, or small talk.

There are several English slang terms that identify conversation or type of conversation: chitchat, Q and A, heart-to-heart talk, confab, powwow, bull session, talkfest, gabfest, pillow talk and rap session.

There are several dictionary definitions for "Skills".

Skill is an ability to do an activity or job well, especially because you have practised it.

Skills are the result of special training to do a function or activity.

Proficiency, facility, or dexterity that is acquired or developed through training or experience.

A developed talent or ability

An art, trade, or technique requiring use of the hands and or tools.

We have to create some definitions for "Conversation Skills".

Conversation skills can be explained as language abilities needed to interact in social situations. Language abilities include speaking with appropriate vocabulary, pronunciation, tone, intonation, rhythm, pauses, politeness and timing.

We have to create some definitions for "English Language Conversation Skills".

English Language Conversation Skills includes language abilities, conversation skills, social skills, culture knowledge and non-verbal communication skills.

Non-verbal communication skills are classified as posture, body movements, gestures, facial expressions, proximity and eye contact.

In English speaking countries the non-verbal messages can represent from 25 to 75% of the meaning. Social skills and culture knowledge can be generalized as "what to say, when to say it, where and why to say it, and most important how to say it".

When learning English Language Conversation Skills ESL students must learn: language abilities, conversation skills, social skills, culture knowledge and non-verbal communication skills. Students need everything if they actually want to converse with native English speakers. ESL Students cannot just learn English vocabulary or English pronunciation as it represents less than 50% of most conversations.

Original post at ESL in Canada:
http://www.eslincanada.com/english/englishconversationskills.php

For a list of ESL English as a second language conversation classes go to: http://www.eslincanada.com/english/index.php