Live conversation calls

The best way to get better at speaking and conversation is...to practice speaking in a conversation!

That's why we host live, small-group conversation calls on Zoom.

Plain English hosts three live, small-group conversation calls on Zoom each month. The calls are not private coaching or tutoring. Instead, they are opportunities for you to practice speaking in a supportive environment. Members say the calls are fun and educational.

The live calls are structured small-group conversations. The topics are published in advance and they often (though not always) related to a recent Story topic or a recent expression.

On the call, you can expect to see a slide presentation with discussion questions and prompts. You may join the conversation at any time by responding to the discussion prompts, asking questions of other members, and introducing new topics. The conversation is structured, but not restrictive.

Here are some sample topics of previous calls:

At the beginning of your first call, you will be invited to introduce yourself to other members. Simply say your first name, where you live, and something short about yourself. We'll start with the main topic at about 5 minutes after the hour.

The call schedule is available here: Live calls schedule

Typically, three calls are scheduled per month at approximately these times:

A few minutes before the starting time, you can join the Zoom meeting. To find the Zoom link, go to the Live Calls schedule here and choose the call. Then find the "Join Now" button in the right-hand column:

If you are a Plus+ member or if you are on your free trial, you'll receive an email with the Zoom link before the call.

Here are some answers to common questions about the live calls:

We try to keep the calls to approximately one hour. If you have to join late or drop off early, you are welcome to do so. There is no requirement to be on the call for the full hour.

You can join as many calls as you like.

Of course not. The live calls are optional. At Plain English, you can choose the resources that will help you achieve your goals. If you don't want to join a live call, if you don't have time, or if you prefer other methods for studying, that is perfectly fine.

The members on the live calls are focused on speaking and conversation skills. We have many, many members focused on other things (vocabulary, listening, writing) who do not join the calls.

That's okay. First of all, there is no pressure to join any live call. However, we think it's a good way to build your confidence so that in the future you're not afraid to talk in English in the future.

You are more than welcome to join a call and listen with your camera off and your microphone muted. Send a message to Jeff or JR in the private chat and tell us that you'd prefer to listen. There is no pressure to talk.

Typically, no. We will occasionally help you find the right word or gently suggest a better way of phrasing something. We practice the supportive conversation technique of repeating back to you (correctly) something we heard you say.

We occasionally share tips and vocabulary words in the Zoom chat. However, we don't offer specific corrections to things you say. Still, you'll get a chance to practice using what you learn in Plain English. You can ask questions about how to express any idea.

No, the calls are not recorded. We want everyone to feel comfortable speaking openly and honestly, without the additional pressure that comes from being recorded.

We do not allow any member to record or transcribe the calls using automated tools.

We typically have between four and six members on the call, plus Jeff and JR. Once in a blue moon, there's just one member, so you might have us all to yourself!

Yes, you can join from your phone. Make sure to have earphones and use the mute button if there is background noise.

No problem. Send us a note with the date and time of a call you'd like to join (see the schedule here) and we'll send you a one-time invitation to join a call after your trial ends.