Notice the words we add in conversations to introduce a question. So with falling intonation, it is a way to make a question seem less direct. For example, you might say: "So are you from Seattle?" or "So do you work here?" or "So you're from London?" Using "so" like this helps soften the tone and makes the conversation flow more naturally.

We also use "so" to change the topic or move on to the next thing. For instance, "So what should we do next?" or "So should we get back to work?" When we need to explain something a bit more or introduce something unexpected, we might say "well." Examples include: "Do you work here?" "Yes." "Well, I just started." "Are you from Seattle?" "Well, I've lived here for about five years. I'm actually from Chicago." The word "well" can signal that something new or surprising is being added.

We also use "well" to show that we're thinking something over or to express hesitation. Additionally, it can be used to begin or end a conversation. For example, "Well, thanks for your input." or "Well, it was nice to meet you." Another common pattern in conversation is when you answer a question, you can throw the question back to the speaker with "How about you?" For instance: "I work for SQL Electronics. How about you?" "Oh, I'm with RDX Systems in Toronto." Right. So. Well. Oh. Or "How about you?" These simple words and phrases make conversations more interactive and natural.

Here is a predict activity. What do you predict the speaker will say? Look at this conversation. Some parts are missing. What are the missing words? You have three seconds to say the words to yourself, then you will hear possibilities. Example: "So, where are you from?" "Oh, I'm from Mexico City. How about you? Are you from this area?" "Well, no. I'm actually from Mexico." "So, what company do you work for?" "Starbucks. How about you?" "I teach at the university." "So have you been here very long?" "Oh, about ten years." "Well, there's my friend. I should go." "Well, it was nice to meet you." "Yes, you too." Practicing with these patterns helps learners anticipate conversational structures and respond naturally.