WEEK 9 : Section1~4
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1. ) Presentation: Student 4 Presentation
Business Activity: Dealing with Questions
Inviting Questions
Are there any questions?
Does anyone have any questions?
If you have any questions, I can answer them now.
Checking Understanding
Sorry, I couldn't hear you. Can you repeat that?
Sorry, I don't understand the question.
Step 1: Let me confirm your question.
Step 2: You're asking me...is that right?
Commenting on the Question
Thank you for that question.
That's a good/great/important question.
That's an interesting point.
Structuring your answer
I think there are two parts to your question.
First of all, ...and for your second point...
Checking if You Answered the Question
Did that answer your question?
Have I answered your question?
Does that make sense?
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2.) Meeting Roleplay: Controlling the Discussion in Meetings + Solving Problems
(Student 2 Leading)
Meeting Roleplay 3: Solving Problems(*Read the "Problem-Solving Steps")
Problem:
Our company has seen a drop in customer satisfaction recently. Customer complaints have increased, and we have received negative feedback about our products and services. This affects our reputation and may lead to losing customers. Our customer service team struggles to handle all the complaints. Complaints include:
Product defects or problems, leading to dissatisfaction and frequent returns.
Poor communication, like slow responses to questions or unclear product usage instructions.
Shipping and delivery issues, such as delays and incorrect items sent.
Long wait times for customer support, whether by phone, email, or online chat.
Unresponsive or unhelpful customer representatives.
Goal:
Discuss and propose strategies to improve customer satisfaction and address these issues.
*Problem-Solving Steps to the Students
Step 1: Before the Meeting
Think for 3 minutes in class about a solution (or do it for homework).
Think about what actions you or others need to take to use your solution
(Example, "We need a bigger budget. I will write a request and send it to the manager.").
Step 2: During the Meeting
Share your solution in the meeting, listen to others, and decide which solutions to use.
Say what actions you or others need to take to apply your solutions.
The meeting ends when all solutions and actions are clear, and everyone knows who will do what.
(Japanese Translation)
問題解決のステップ
ステップ1: ミーティング前
クラス内で解決策について3分間考える（もしくは宿題としても可）。
自分や他の人が解決策を用いて行うべき行動を考える
（例:「もっと大きな予算が必要です。私は予算の依頼をマネージャーに送ります」）
ステップ2: ミーティング中
ミーティング内で自分の解決策を発表し、他の人の解決策も聞き、どれを採用するか決める。
解決策を採用するために自分や他の人がするべき行動を伝える。
ミーティングは、解決策と行動が明確になり、誰が何をするか決まったときに終了します。
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: CONTROLLING THE DISCUSSION IN MEETINGS
FUNCTIONS AND KEY PHRASES
Introducing the Subject
We're here today to talk about (topic of the meeting).
We need to discuss (topic of the meeting).
Keeping to the Right Subject
We're getting off the subject.
Can we come back to that later?
Changing the Subject
I think we've covered this point.
Can we move onto the next point?
Concluding and Summarizing
I think that's everything.
I will summarize everything in an email.
Thank you for coming everyone. Goodbye.
Business Activity: Solving Problems
Explaining the Problem
We’ve got a problem with…
There are some problems with…
We can’t…
We did (action), but it didn’t work.
Solving the Problem
We need to…
We can…
Promising Action
I’ll (do some action).
I’ll ask (someone) to (do some action).
Responding and Thanking
Don’t worry.
That might work.
Thanks for your ideas, everyone.
Let’s try that.
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3.) Business Discussion: Business Training
Business Training Article: In today’s competitive business environment, continuous skills development is essential for staying ahead. Many companies offer workshops, on-the-job training, and mentorship programs to help employees improve their skills. Business training can range from technical skills to soft skills like communication and leadership. Some employees pursue certification or continuing education to advance their careers, while others use e-learning platforms for flexible, self-paced training. Professional development is an ongoing process, and employees who invest in learning are often better positioned for promotion.
Discussion Questions:
How important do you think business training is for career development?
Have you ever participated in a workshop or professional training program? What did you learn?
What role do you think soft skills play in the workplace compared to technical skills?
How do you feel about e-learning compared to traditional, in-person training?
What skills do you think are most important to develop for future career growth?
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4.) Casual Discussion: Relations with other People
Relations with Other People Article: Building and maintaining strong relationships with others is a crucial part of life. Whether through friendship or networking, relationships are built on communication, trust, and empathy. Sometimes conflicts arise, but finding a compromise and maintaining respect helps strengthen the bond. A good support system can provide emotional and practical help when needed. Understanding how to manage relationships—both personal and professional—can lead to better interactions and a more fulfilling life.
Discussion Questions:
How do you maintain strong relationships with the people in your life?
What do you think is the key to resolving conflicts between friends or coworkers?
How important is communication in building trust and understanding in relationships?
Have you ever had to compromise in a relationship? How did it work out?
How do you balance personal and professional relationships in your life?
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