Many customs differ from country to country. This activity allows students to practice their English along with the local customs expected when shopping in a store. Students will use the template provided to create a three cell storyboard that covers how to maneuver through the aisles, how to ask for help, and how to check out. Students can practice their English and demonstrate their knowledge of the answers to these prompts by writing in the description boxes as well as including speech bubbles within their illustration. Afterwards, students can present their storyboards to the class adding a speaking component to the activity!
As an addition to this activity, teachers may ask students to add a row and answer the prompts for their country or culture, allowing them to teach others about their culture and extend their English practice.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that shows how to shop in a store!
Student Instructions:
Start the lesson by introducing vocabulary and phrases commonly used in stores, such as names of items, phrases for asking for help, and expressions for checking out. Use visual aids or actual objects to make the vocabulary more relatable. Discuss various scenarios students might encounter in a store, like finding a product, asking about prices, or dealing with a crowded aisle.
Have students brainstorm ideas for their role-play scenarios based on the store settings discussed. Encourage them to think about the different interactions they might have with store staff or other customers. Once they have their ideas, guide them in writing simple scripts or dialogue outlines for their storyboards, ensuring they incorporate the vocabulary and phrases introduced earlier.
Provide students with storyboard templates and art supplies. Instruct them to create a three-cell storyboard that illustrates their role-play scenario, including key elements of the interaction. Encourage them to use speech bubbles for dialogues and captions to describe the setting and actions. This step allows students to visually plan their role-play and reinforces their understanding of the vocabulary and phrases in context.
Organize a role-play session where students act out their scenarios based on their storyboards. Each group can present their role-play to the class, using their storyboard as a visual aid. Encourage the audience to ask questions or give feedback after each presentation, focusing on the use of language and the effectiveness of the communication in the role-play.
Greeting customs in stores vary significantly across cultures. In many Western countries, a verbal greeting or a simple nod to acknowledge the staff is customary. In the United States and Canada, for instance, it's common for store employees to greet customers with a friendly "Hello" or "How can I help you?" In many parts of Europe, a polite "Bonjour" in France or a respectful "Guten Tag" in Germany is expected upon entering a store. In contrast, in some Asian countries like Japan, staff often greet customers with a bow and a verbal welcome, such as "Irasshaimase." In Middle Eastern countries, greetings may be more formal and can include handshakes for regular customers. Understanding these greeting norms is important for both respecting local customs and enhancing the shopping experience.
Queueing etiquette also varies globally. In many Western countries, a strict adherence to queueing and waiting for one's turn is the norm. Countries like the UK are particularly known for orderly queueing. In contrast, in some parts of Asia and the Middle East, the approach to queueing might be more relaxed, with a less structured line and a more assertive attitude required to get service. In Scandinavian countries, taking a number and waiting for it to be called is a common practice. For tourists and expatriates, observing and adapting to local queueing customs is crucial to avoid misunderstandings or appearing rude.
Customer service standards and expectations can differ widely from one culture to another. In the United States, customer service is often highly proactive and engaging, with staff readily offering assistance and often following up with additional questions or suggestions. In many Asian countries, such as Japan and South Korea, customer service is characterized by a high level of politeness and attentiveness, but it may be less proactive in terms of upselling or engaging in casual conversation. European customer service can be more reserved, with staff generally providing assistance when asked but otherwise allowing customers more space and privacy while shopping. In some cultures, building a personal rapport with customers is valued, while in others, a quick and efficient transaction is the norm. Understanding these differing expectations can help shoppers navigate international retail environments more comfortably and respectfully.