Abstract
We propose a new conversation class for advanced students which is not focused on accuracy and fluency, but on developing the thought contents and on how to think it. We designed a theme many learners can be interested in, in order to rouse a strong volition to speak, and which will raise a positive attitude to participate. The practice items are 1) objection, 2) different point of view, 3) paraphrasing, 4) illustration and 5) effective persuading. After the course, we asked the learners for a self-assessment. At the beginning of the course, many of the assessments indicated a negative learning experience but this changed gradually and at the end of the course many learners reported a positive learning experience.
