Complete the gap-filling task. Some of the gaps below may require a maximum of THREE words. Make sure the word(s) you fill in is (are) both grammatically ＆ semantically acceptable. You may refer to your notes.
Five Common Mistakes in Conversations and Their Solutions
Ⅰ. Not listening
A. Problem: most people don’t listen
—wait eagerly for their turn to talk
—only care for themselves
B. Solutions
—Avoid (1) question.
—Listen to the content.
Ⅱ. Asking (2)
A. Problems
—conversation sounds like an interrogation
—you don’t have much to contribute
B. Solutions
— (3) questions with statements.
Ⅲ. Poor delivery
A. Problems
—Speak too fast and unclear.
—Speak lowly and breathlessly.
—Speak (4)
B. Solutions
—Slow down.
—Speak loudly.
—Do not (5)
—Don’t use a monotone voice.
—Try to use pauses.
—Improve your (6) , e.g. laughter, posture, etc.
Ⅳ. Talking about a weird or (7) topic
A. Problem
B. Solutions
—Steer clear of topics such as bad health or relationships, crappy job or boss, serial killers, technical lingo that only you and some other guy understands.
—Avoid talking about religion and (8)
Ⅴ. Being boring
A. Problem: clinging to one topic for hours
B. Solutions
—Lead an interesting life, and focus on (9)
—Be genuinely interested, and make the conversation feel more (10)