Interrupting
It is important to take turns in discussions, but there are exceptions to that rule. However, impatience or frustration are not legitimate reasons to interrupt a speaker. If necessary, wait for an opening then use signpost language to politely speak out of turn.
Signposts
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"I am sorry to interrupt, but..."
"I apologize for interrupting, but..."
"I recognize what you are saying is important, however..."
"I'm sorry to interrupt. Can you clarify..."
For more resources...
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Using English: Teach Turn Taking - This link provides information and signposts for interrupting.
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Tefltastic: Interrupting Activities - This link or pdf provides activities to practice interrupting.
Suggested Activity
Game: Polite Interruptions
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Objective:
Students will practice politely using interruption signposts.
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Directions:
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After students have learned about interruption signposts, divide students into pairs.
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Students will politely interrupt each other using signposts.
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After students have had about 5 minutes of interrupting each other, students will decide who was the kindest interrupter.
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Have post-discussion on interruptions.
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Download:
The text file of this page.