Functions Worksheets
Functional English is often the most practical. Think of it as the “how to” of communication. It can be as simple as “how to say thank you” or as involved as “how to give a presentation”.
In any case, the worksheets on this page are designed to practice some functional English situations we frequently encounter.
Many of these worksheets and targets grew out of individual classes and needs my students faced. As such, the level and language might not match all groups. Feel free to get in touch with ideas, feedback and requests for the kinds of functional language you’d like to see here.
Worksheets
Making Appointments
It’s one thing to make an appointment but how do you handle running a few minutes late, and the inevitable need to reschedule?
Making Reservations
There’s a lot going on here. This worksheet contains language for different levels as well as a sample check-in sheet for students to fill out in a role play.
Making Invitations
This simple worksheet helps students make invitations, accept, and decline politely.
Making Complaints
Making complaints in English can serve several purposes. It can be a light, fun way to start a conversation but they can also be used to report a problem and get help.
Apologizing
Apartment Problems
Asking for Clarification
Describing People
Reporting a Crime
Describing Faces
Ordering in Restaurants
Shopping Lists
Talking on the Phone
Describing places
Describing Things
Giving Advice
Telling Time
Giving Directions
Travel Times
This worksheet gives students an opportunity to practice talking about travel times related to buses, trains, and flights. It’s a simple role play that challenges students to get the departure and arrival times correct.
How to make an espresso
Many of my classes involved working with science teachers. This particular activity was a very fun way of setting up clear instructions on how to perform an experiment. You have to give clear, step-by-step instructions, warnings, and talk about amounts. When it’s all done, you get to drink some amazing coffee.
Awesome Job
This is a great team building activity. It starts off with lots of sample language for encouraging one another and puts it in context. The challenge comes when students guide one another through a simple course with only their partners voice to guide them. There are lots of great variations and as always, clear instructions are included.
Introducing Others
This worksheet includes a simple wall sheet that shows various ways to introduce people to one another ranked from easiest to hardest making it a good reminder for any class.
Visiting a doctor
When talking about sickness and injury, there is a lot of vocabulary involved. Fortunately, most of the language, the sentences and phrases to describe what’s wrong, is fairly simple. After all, the sick or injured person should be able to communicate in the easiest way possible.
