Role-play is an essential part of language learning, as we learnt in a previous post (HERE). Students need to put themselves into simulated contexts to make sure that they know how to respond in typical situations, especially when at a basic or elementary level.
It may seem obvious, but for a role-play you need a minuimum of two people. They can also however be carried out in groups of 3,4 or 5 people. Before starting, you should all choose roles, such as SHOP ASSISTANT and CUSTOMER.
(SHOP ASSISTANT)
Can I help you?
Are you looking for anything in particular?
What can I do for you?
What will it be?
Do you need any help with anything?
How can I help you?
(CUSTOMER)
I am just looking thanks.
I want to buy ___
I need ____
I would like ___
I am looking for ___
I am after ___
Can I buy ___?
Do you have ___?
Is/Are there ___?
Where is/are the ___?
I was wondering if you have ___
Could you tell me where the ____ is/are?
(SHOP ASSISTANT)
Of course
Sure
Not problem
Let me see
Let me have a look
I will check for you
Maybe, I will look
I´m not sure, I´ll go and see
(CUSTOMER)
It is/They are great thanks
I like it/them, I´ll take it/them
Have you got a different colour?
How much does it/do they cost?
Do you have it in a different size?
What colour/size do you have this/these in?
How much is it/are they?
How much does it/do they cost?
(SHOP ASSISTANT)
Come with me to the till/check-out
I´ll just take them to the till/check-out
Do you need anything else?
Will that be all?
(CUSTOMER)
Can I pay by card?
Do you accept credit cards?
Is there a discount?
Do you have student discount?
Can you deliver it to my house?
(CUSTOMER) Problems:
Can I exchange this/these?
Can I return this/these?
I need to bring this back
Can I have my money back?
Could I have a refund, please?
This is faulty/broken
These don´t/This doesn´t work
Key words:
Suit = look good
Fit = be the correct size
Pay = give money for
Return = take back to the shop
Cost = the value of them
Role-play:
S = shop assistant
C = customer
S: Hello, Can I help you with anything?
C: No thanks, I am just looking
……
C: I have seen some trainers that I like. Do you have them in size 40?
S: I´ll just go and check…. Yes, here they are? You can try them on here
C: They are really nice, how much are they?
S: They cost $49
C: That´s not too expensive. I think I will take them. Do they suit me?
S: Yes, they are very cool
C: Ok. I´ll definitely take them then
S: I will just take them to the till for you
C: Thanks, can I pay with card?
S: Yes of course. That will be $49
C: Here you are thanks
S: Would you like a receipt?
C: Yes please. Do you have a bag?
S: Of course, here you are. Have a nice day!
C: You too! And thanks for your help