You're at a party and English words are rolling off your tongue. You've got lots to say and everyone wants to talk to you. As great as this may sound, it's not what usually happens. A more likely scenario is that you don't utter a word because you're afraid to speak.
If you want to build up your confidence, you need to practise English outside the classroom, says Monomita Nag-Chowdhury, senior teacher and summer school manager at the British Council. Only by speaking in different situations and seeing how others react can you develop your language skills and overcome your fear.
Speaking at parties, on the phone and in other social situations is a fun way to practise. You don't have to worry about being corrected by your teacher and you can talk about whatever you like. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Introductions
Introducing one person to another is scary when you're not speaking your native language. The trick is to 'keep it simple and use the simple present tense', says Ms Nag-Chowdhury.
Start with the person's name and then give some information about them, such as where they live or what their hobbies are. Try something like: 'Sally, this is Linda. Linda is a great tennis player.' The most important thing is to relax so that you don't come across as rude, says Ms Nag-Chowdhury.