美国文化背景3.pptVIP

Some Taboos in talking with Americans I. General Points to Remember 1. Most Americans only speak English: While it is true that more and more Americans speak Spanish, most Americans only speak English. Dont expect them to understand your native language. General Points to Remember 2. Americans have difficulties understanding foreign accents: Many Americans are not used to foreign accents. This requires patience from both of you! II. Conversation Tips 1. Speak about location: Americans love to talk about location. When speaking to a stranger, ask them where they are from and then make a connection with that place. For example: Oh, I have a friend who studied in Los Angeles. He says its a beautiful place to live. Most Americans will then willingly talk about their experiences living or visiting that particular city or area. II. Conversation Tips 2. Talk about work: Americans commonly ask What do you do?. Its not considered impolite (as in some countries) and is a popular topic of discussion between strangers. II. Conversation Tips 3. Talk about sports: Americans love sports! However, they love American sports. When speaking about football, most Americans understand American Football, not soccer. II. Conversation Tips Be careful when expressing ideas about race, religion or other sensitive topics: The United States is a multi-cultural society. Especially in the last few years, Americans are trying very hard to be sensitive to other cultures and ideas. Talking about sensitive topics like religion or beliefs, is often avoided in order to be sure not to offend someone of a different belief system. This is often referred to as being politically correct III. Addressing People 1. Use last names with people you do not know: Address people using their title (Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms, Dr, Professor) and their last names. Always use Ms when addressing women: It is important to use Ms when addressing a woman. Only use Mrs when the woman has asked you to do so III. Add