Small Talk Script

Working in groups of threes or fives, use the following script for your small talk role play:

SCENARIO 1: IN THE CLASSROOM

Person A = You
Person B = A local student you don't know.
Person C = An international student you do know.

You have just finished class. While you're packing your stuff, what are you going to say to Person B to make a connection? You need to break the ice, and get them talking about themselves as soon as possible. And you also need to introduce Person C to Person B. 

A: Hi. Can I ask you a question? (Slight pause)

(Choose one of the following questions)

a. How well do you know UCLA?
b. Do you know if these lectures are being recorded?
c. Have you taken a class with this prof before?
d. Do you know where the nearest coffee shop is?
e. Others?

B: <response>

A: Oh sorry, my name is <insert name>? (put out your hand)

B: Hi <Person A>. My name is <Person B>

A: You said that <repeat their answer to the question>. Is that right?

B: Yes, that's right.

A: Sorry, how do you say your name again? (Start writing down their name)

I'm going to write this down, because I suck at remembering names.

B: (repeats their name)

A: Oh, have you met <Person C>? He/She/They are from CUHK too. (Turn to Person C)

<Person C> This is <Person B>.

C: Nice to meet you, <Person B>.

A: Hey, thanks for being so friendly. I'm only here for a couple semesters and I'm hoping to meet as many locals I can while I'm here. Here's my email address in case you have any ideas or tips.

Well, I should go.
Nice to meet you. Maybe I'll bump into you on campus.

Bye.

B: Bye.

C: Bye.

Switch roles and repeat three times.

SCENARIO 2: IN THE LINE-UP

Person A = You
Person B = A local student you don't know. Standing behind you.
Person C = An international student you do know. Standing in front of you.

You are at UBC, waiting in line to use the microwave at the student cafeteria.

A: Wow. It's really busy today.

(Choose one of the following questions)

a. Is it always this busy?
b. What's for lunch today?
c. Oh, that smells good? Maybe they'll trade with me.
d. Others?

B: <response>

A: Oh sorry, my name is <insert name>? I'm in <Department>. I'm on exchange from Hong Kong.

B: Hi <Person A>. My name is <Person B>

A: <Repeat Person B's name> Did I get that right?

B: Yes, ...

A: This is <Person C>. He/She/They are also on exchange from Hong Kong.

C: Nice to meet you. What do you have for lunch?

A: <Person B>, do you know a lot of people at UBC?

B: Yes, I grew up nearby.

A: It's my turn. Have a good lunch.

B: Thanks. You too.

A: Nice to meet you. Maybe I'll bump into you in line again.

C: Nice to meet you.

B: Bye.

Switch roles and repeat three times.