Lesson 1

Wait, Could You Say That Again?

Simple language for when you don't hear, don't understand, or just need something explained a different way.

Warm-up

Let's talk

1.Tell me about a time you completely misunderstood something someone said to you.

2.Do you ever ask people to repeat themselves, even in Russian or Kazakh? When?

3.What's harder to understand: someone who talks too fast, or someone who mumbles?

4.Has a text message or voice note ever confused you? What happened?

See it in action

A conversation about directions

A:Hey, can I ask you something about the schedule?
B:Sure, go ahead.
A:Could you say that again, please? I didn't hear the room number.
B:Room 204, on the third floor.
A:Sorry, I didn't catch that — third floor?
B:Yes, third floor.
A:Could you say that differently? I'm not sure what "the main block" means.
B:I mean the newer part of the building, near the entrance.
A:So, you mean the building next to the parking lot?
B:Yes, exactly.
A:What do you mean by "next to"? Right next to it, or across the street?
B:Right next to it.
A:Could you explain that again? I want to make sure I get the directions right.
B:Sure. Go straight, turn left, and it's the second building.
A:Could you speak more slowly, please? I want to write this down.
B:Of course — go... straight... turn... left...
A:Is that the same as the building where we had the meeting last week?
B:Yes, exactly the same one.

Key phrases

8 phrases to use

You just saw all 8 phrases in that conversation. Tap a card to see each one again, on its own.

Tap each card once to reveal the example.

Key words

Fill in the gap

These words go well with today's phrases. Use the word bank to complete each sentence.

clear unclear confused explain repeat understand meaning loudly quietly slowly

Speaking practice

Mystery word

Take turns. Think of any word you like — it doesn't have to be from today's lesson. It can be an object, a job, a feeling, anything. Describe it in a simple, slightly vague way, without saying the word. Your partner listens and must guess it — but first, they must use at least one phrase from today's cards to ask for clarification before guessing.

The describer never says the word itself.
The guesser must ask for clarification at least once before guessing.
If the guess is correct, swap roles and pick a new word.

One rule: if you understand the description right away, don't guess immediately — ask a clarifying question first anyway, just for practice.

Homework

Extensive listening

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925 English: How to Clarify Understanding in English

Watch the short video once for general understanding. Then watch it again and write down any 3 phrases you hear that we haven't studied yet.