When Do We Use English?

 Introduction

English is all around us. Even if we are not in an English-speaking country, we still use English in many aspects of our lives. Have you ever read a sign in English, watched a movie with English subtitles, or talked to a tourist in English?

In this section, we will explore different situations where we use English, both inside and outside the classroom.

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1. Using English in the Classroom

One of the most common places where we use English is in English class. But how often do we actually speak English during the lesson?

a. Communicating with the Teacher

In class, students should try to communicate with their teacher in English. Here are some common classroom expressions:

"Excuse me, may I go to the toilet?"

"Could you please explain it again?"

"I don't understand. Can you give me an example?"

b. Group Discussions and Presentations

Students often work in groups to complete tasks, discuss topics, or give presentations. Using English in these situations helps improve fluency and confidence.

Example of a short classroom conversation:

Teacher: "Can anyone tell me why English is important?"

Student A: "Because it helps us communicate with people from other countries."

Student B: "Yes, and many jobs require English skills."

Teacher: "That's correct! Can you give me some examples of jobs that require English?"

Student C: "Tour guide, hotel staff, and flight attendant!"

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2. Using English Outside the Classroom

Even outside of school, there are many situations where English is useful.

a. Social Media and the Internet

Many websites, apps, and games are in English.

Popular social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have English content.

Learning English allows us to understand global trends and communicate with people from different countries.

Example of a social media conversation:

Alex: "Hey! I saw a cool video on YouTube about space exploration!"

Rina: "Really? What was it about?"

Alex: "It explained how astronauts live in space. The video was in English, but I understood most of it!"

Rina: "That's great! English helps us learn new things from different sources."

b. Talking to Tourists

Imagine you are visiting Borobudur Temple and you see a tourist who looks lost. You can help them by using English!

Example of a conversation with a tourist:

Tourist: "Excuse me, can you help me find the exit?"

You: "Sure! Just walk straight ahead and turn left."

Tourist: "Thank you! By the way, this temple is amazing! Can you tell me more about it?"

You: "Yes! Borobudur is a Buddhist temple built in the 9th century. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Indonesia."

Tourist: "Wow! That’s interesting. Thank you for your help!"

You: "You're welcome! Enjoy your visit!"

c. Traveling to Other Countries

When traveling abroad, English is essential for:

Asking for directions

Ordering food at restaurants

Checking in at hotels

Shopping at stores

Example of a conversation in a restaurant:

Waiter: "Good evening! Welcome to our restaurant. May I take your order?"

You: "Yes, I would like a grilled chicken and a glass of orange juice, please."

Waiter: "Sure! Would you like some fries with your chicken?"

You: "Yes, please. That sounds great!"

Waiter: "Alright! Your food will be ready in 15 minutes."

You: "Thank you!"

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3. The Role of AI in Practicing English Conversations

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help us practice English in real-life situations.

a. Using AI Chatbots for Practice

AI tools like ChatGPT allow us to have conversations and improve our English skills.

Example of an AI conversation practice prompt:

"Pretend you are a tourist visiting my country. Ask me questions, and I will try to answer in English."

"Help me practice ordering food in a restaurant by acting as a waiter."

b. Improving Pronunciation with AI

Apps like Google Assistant or Siri can help with pronunciation.

Example of a pronunciation practice prompt:

"How do I correctly pronounce 'comfortable'?"

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Conclusion

We use English more often than we realize, both inside and outside the classroom. By practicing English every day, we can become more confident and fluent.

✅ In the classroom, English helps us communicate with teachers and classmates.

✅ On social media, English allows us to understand global content.

✅ In tourism and travel, English helps us interact with foreigners.

✅ With AI, we can practice English anytime and anywhere.

So, when should we use English? As often as possible!

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