Making a Recommendation
Objective of the Lesson:
The goal of this lesson is to teach students how to make a recommendation confidently and clearly. Recommendations are often needed when someone asks for advice or suggestions about what to do in a particular situation. In the CELPIP test, students might be required to recommend something based on their own experience or opinion.
How to Make a Recommendation:
- State the recommendation clearly: Start by saying what you recommend. Use phrases like:
- “I recommend…”
- “You should consider…”
- “I suggest…”
- “It would be a good idea to…”
- Provide reasons: Explain why you are making the recommendation. This adds weight to your suggestion and makes it more convincing. Use phrases like:
- “Because…”
- “The reason is…”
- “This is important because…”
- Consider the other person’s needs: Think about what the person wants or needs and tailor your recommendation to suit their situation. Show that you understand their point of view.
- Offer alternatives (if needed): Sometimes, you may want to suggest more than one option, especially if the person has specific needs.
Sample Conversation:
Topic: “Recommending a Restaurant”
Person A:
“I’m looking for a good place to have dinner tonight. Any recommendations?”
Person B:
“Yes, I recommend trying La Bella Italia. It’s an amazing Italian restaurant.”
Person A:
“Why do you recommend that place?”
Person B:
“Well, the food is delicious, especially the pasta, and the atmosphere is really cozy. Plus, it’s reasonably priced.”
Person A:
“That sounds great! Do they have vegetarian options?”
Person B:
“Yes, they have a good selection of vegetarian dishes, and they’re known for their fresh ingredients. If you’re not into Italian, I also suggest trying The Green Leaf. They offer a variety of healthy, organic meals.”
Person A:
“Thanks! I think I’ll go with La Bella Italia.”
Difficult Words with Meaning and Usage:
- Recommend
- Meaning: To suggest something as a good choice or option.
- Usage: “I recommend visiting the new museum downtown; it’s very informative.”
- Cozy
- Meaning: Comfortable, warm, and pleasant.
- Usage: “The café has a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with friends.”
- Reasonably priced
- Meaning: Not too expensive; affordable.
- Usage: “This store offers high-quality clothes that are reasonably priced.”
- Vegetarian
- Meaning: Food that does not include meat or fish.
- Usage: “The restaurant has a variety of vegetarian options, including salads and pastas.”
- Atmosphere
- Meaning: The feeling or mood in a particular place.
- Usage: “The restaurant’s atmosphere is very relaxing, with soft lighting and quiet music.”
Selfie Assignment:
Record a 2-minute video where you make a recommendation about a movie or TV show to a friend. Use the following steps:
- Introduce the movie or TV show.
- Give two reasons why you recommend it.
- Mention if there’s something the person should keep in mind (e.g., the genre or length).
- Conclude by encouraging them to watch it.