Reacting to Surprising News

What are we learning today?

You will give a short answer that matches the news you hear.

Explanation

• News can change from good to bad.
• Your reaction must change too.
• Good news: "Well done! That's fantastic! How amazing!"
• Bad news: "Oh no! What a shame! I'm sorry to hear that."
• For surprise, say "Really? Wow!"
• Ask a question to continue, for example "Is it serious?"
• To refuse, say "I'm afraid I can't ... Could we meet another day?"

Examples

1. I've passed all my exams. - Well done! That's fantastic!
2. My brother's had an accident. - Oh no! Is it serious?
3. We're going to Thailand. - Wow! How amazing!

Remember!

• Do not say "Great!" to bad news.
• Answer politely.

Check yourself

1. React to: "I failed the exam."
2. Which phrase makes a refusal softer?