Last week, on 11th March, our school was again visited by a group of Americans. The aim of their visit to our English classes was to help us practise our English speaking skills and also to share their thoughts about their country and ours.
At first, we were divided into groups of six, specifically two native English speakers and four students. To start the conversation, they encouraged us to speak by asking simple questions about everyday topics, such as family, school subjects, hobbies or travelling. We were also asked if we would like to visit America, why and which places, for instance national parks or big cities.
One of the longer-lasting topics was creative free-time activities. The main reason was that the majority of our group was interested in crafting hobbies. One of the Americans loves visiting art galleries. So we talked about painting, jewellery making or crocheting. The second American wasn´t into art, so he directed the conversation towards extreme sports he likes to try.
Then it was our turn to ask questions. Stereotypically, we chose to ask whether they had tried some Czech food. Surprisingly, they knew and had tasted quite a lot of our traditional food, and “svíčková” couldn´t be left out. While discussing this, we gradually moved on to American food. They recommended some specialities from Texas, where they are actually from.
The conversation lasted the whole class, but it went by very quickly. Even though for some of us it felt a little bit awkward to talk with them or ask them various questions, the atmosphere was warm and sometimes full of laughter. In general, it turned out to be very beneficial experience.
Lucie Čadová, 2. B
