Listening and Speaking A1: Making Requests
Being able to make polite requests is essential in everyday conversations. In this lesson, we’ll learn how to make requests politely in English, expand your vocabulary, and practice through engaging dialogues. Let’s begin! 🌟
🔑 Vocabulary for Making Requests
Let’s start by learning key phrases and expressions used when making requests.
Listen and repeat aloud to improve your pronunciation! 
💬 Common Phrases for Making Requests:
- “Please” – A word to show politeness.
- “Can you…?” – A way to ask if someone can do something.
- “Could you…?” – A polite way to ask for help.
- “Would you mind…?” – A gentle way to ask if something is okay.
- “Do you think you could…?” – A friendly way to ask for assistance.
- “May I…?” – A formal way to ask for permission.
- “Is it okay if I…?” – A way to check if an action is allowed.
- “Could I possibly…?” – Another polite way to ask for permission.
- “Excuse me…” – A phrase to get someone’s attention.
- “I’d appreciate it if you could…” – A very polite way to ask for help.
🗣️ Responses to Requests:
- 😊 “Sure!” – Yes, I can do that.
- 👍 “No problem.” – I will do it easily.
- 🙌 “Of course.” – Yes, absolutely.
- 👌 “Certainly.” – Yes, definitely.
- 😁 “I’d be happy to.” – I am glad to help you.
- 🙁 “I’m sorry, but…” – I cannot do that, sorry.
- 🙁 “I’m afraid I can’t.” – I am sorry, I cannot help.
- 🙁 “Maybe another time.” – I cannot do it now, perhaps later.
🛠️ Useful Expressions:
- “Do you have a moment…?” – Can you talk for a short time?
- “Could you help me with…?” – Can you help me do this?
- “May I use your phone?” – Can I borrow your phone?
- “Could you pass me the…?” – Can you give me that item?
- “Do you know where…?” – Can you tell me the location of something?
- “Could you show me…?” – Can you demonstrate or point out something?
- “Can I borrow…?” – May I use something for a short time?
- “May I have…?” – Can I get this item, please?
🎧 Real-Life Dialogues: Making Requests
Practice these dialogues to become comfortable with making and responding to requests. Try both roles to enhance your speaking skills! 🎤
🗣️ Dialogue 1: Borrowing a Pen
Emily: Excuse me, could I borrow your pen for a moment?
Michael: Sure, here you go!
Emily: Thanks so much. I’ll give it back in a minute.
Michael: No problem!
🗣️ Dialogue 2: Asking for Help
Sophia: Can you help me carry this box? It’s quite heavy.
David: Of course! Let me take that for you.
Sophia: Thank you, I appreciate it.
🗣️ Dialogue 3: Requesting Directions
Alex: Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to the train station?
Olivia: Sure! Go straight ahead and turn left at the second traffic light.
Alex: Thanks a lot!
Olivia: You’re welcome!
🗣️ Dialogue 4: Asking for Permission
Liam: May I open the window? It’s a bit warm in here.
Emma: Certainly! Go ahead.
Liam: Thanks!
🗣️ Dialogue 5: Ordering Food Politely
Waiter: Are you ready to order?
Isabella: Yes, could I please have the grilled chicken salad?
Waiter: Certainly. Anything to drink?
Isabella: Just water, please.
🗣️ Dialogue 6: Asking for Time Off
Employee: Excuse me, could I take the afternoon off tomorrow?
Manager: May I ask why?
Employee: I have a doctor’s appointment.
Manager: That’s fine. Just make sure to finish your tasks.
🗣️ Dialogue 7: Requesting a Favor
Ava: Would you mind watering my plants while I’m away?
Grace: Not at all! I’d be happy to.
Ava: Thank you so much.
🗣️ Dialogue 8: Asking for Clarification
Teacher: Do you have any questions?
Student: Could you please explain that last part again?
Teacher: Certainly! Let’s go over it together.
🗣️ Dialogue 9: Making a Phone Request
Caller: May I speak to Mr. Johnson, please?
Receptionist: One moment, please. I’ll put you through.
Caller: Thank you!
🗣️ Dialogue 10: Requesting Silence
Maria: Would you mind keeping the noise down? I’m trying to study.
Neighbor: Oh, I’m sorry! I’ll turn the music down.
Maria: Thank you, I appreciate it.