Often times when English students are asked a question their response is simply a nod of the head. In English speaking countries that nod indicates the answer yes. This response isn't always the student's true feelings. Maybe they are confused, would like more clarity, or actually do understand. This lesson will help you become more confident in your responses.
Let's look at a scenario that takes place at a university. The professor is describing an assignment that needs to be completed before the next class.
So the assignment consists of an overall summary of the previously read pages from our text. If you haven't finished the reading, go ahead and read chapters 4-7. You will also have to add your opinion to the summary. Make sure you cover the theorys of the writer. Everyone understand?
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If you weren't quite sure what the professor was describing exactly, what do you say to clarify the assignment? Here is a list of expressions that you can say to the professor to show you don't understand what he or she is asking of you.
- Could you say that again?
- I don't quite get it.
- What exactly do you want?
- Could you please repeat that?
- Could you clarify that?
- Is there any way to explain that differently?
- I didn't follow you.
- I don't understand what you are asking.
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