Everyday English (Elementary)

Topic: Smartphones

In this lesson, students will develop vocabulary and conversation skills by talking about their smartphones.

Lesson Notes June 16, 2026 (Elementary)

Words & Phrases

• My son did most of the talking in English on our trip.

  • Local people are faster speakers, so I couldn’t (hear well / catch everything).

  • We rode in this driverless taxi. It was very safe.

• The flag of California has a bear on it.

  • There is a bear on the flag of California.

• Have you ever been to Universal Studios?

  • Yes, I’ve been to the one in America.

  • No, I’ve never been.

Appropriate Language

• While “jet coaster” might sound like English, the appropriate word is “rollercoaster”

Smartphones

Section 2B Being Polite

This section looks at asking for help

• We can use “can” in almost every situation in English.

  • Using “would you mind …” is useful when you believe there might be a chance the person might say no.

Offering to help someone

• Casual & Friendly

  • “Can I + (verb)?”

    • Can I help you carry those bags?

    • Can I get you a glass of water?

  • “Do you want me to + (verb)?”

    • Do you want me to open the window?

    • Are you warm? Do you want me to turn down the air conditioner?

• Polite & Formal

  • “Would you like me to + (verb)?”

    • Would you like me to get that for you? (Useful when someone can’t reach something)

    • Would you like me to drive you to the station? It’s raining outside.

  • “May I + (verb)?”

    • May I take your coat?

    • May I help you find something in the store?

Next lesson

June 23, 2026

• Lesson 10 page 4 - Section 3: A “Roleplay” (Note: the word “screen” is used twice)