Understanding Discourse Markers in Conversations

This video tutorial by Sian from BBC Learning English focuses on using discourse markers to enhance conversational fluency. It introduces seven different discourse markers, provides a conversation example, and explains the function of each marker. The tutorial concludes by encouraging practice to master these markers.

What is the main purpose of using discourse markers in conversations?

• To avoid giving opinions

• To confuse the listener

• To make sentences longer

• To connect ideas and sound more fluent

In the example conversation, what was the crazy idea for the staff Christmas party?

• Going skydiving

• Going on a cruise

• Going to a theme park

• Having a beach party

Which discourse marker is used to give an opinion or sometimes to insult someone?

• I mean

• You see

• To tell you the truth

• In other words

What is the function of the discourse marker 'I mean'?

• To summarize

• To give new information

• To give an opinion

• To explain or correct a statement

Which discourse marker is used to provide new information or an explanation?

• You see

• I know

• At the end of the day

• In other words

What does 'in other words' help to do in a conversation?

• To explain something in a different way

• To give a summary

• To introduce a new topic

• To give an opinion

Which discourse marker is used to summarize the most important point after considering everything else?

• I know

• You see

• At the end of the day

• So to speak

When is the discourse marker 'I know' typically used?

• When summarizing

• When correcting a statement

• When giving an opinion

• When having a sudden idea

What does 'so to speak' indicate when used in a conversation?

• Metaphorical meaning

• New information

• Summary

• Literal meaning

What is the key to mastering discourse markers according to the video?

• Reading books

• Watching movies

• Practicing regularly

• Listening to music