Advanced Communication Strategies

Master Prediction & Paraphrasing Techniques

🔮 What is Prediction Strategy?

Prediction strategy involves using context clues, signal words, and logical thinking to anticipate what a speaker will say next. This technique improves comprehension and helps you follow conversations more easily.

🎯 Why Use Prediction Strategy?

  • Stay engaged and focused during listening
  • Prepare for key information before it's spoken
  • Better understand complex or fast speech
  • Participate more actively in conversations

📝 How to Apply Prediction Strategy:

  • Listen for signal words: "however," "therefore," "for example"
  • Use topic knowledge: What logically comes next?
  • Notice patterns: Problem → solution, cause → effect
  • Pay attention to tone: Voice changes signal new information

🚨 Key Signal Words for Prediction:

Contrast: "however," "but," "on the other hand"

Examples: "for instance," "such as," "like"

Results: "therefore," "as a result," "consequently"

Addition: "furthermore," "in addition," "also"

Prediction Example 1: Signal Word Prediction

You hear: "Traditional fossil fuels are running out. Therefore..."

Predict: The speaker will mention alternatives or solutions

Actual: "Therefore, we need innovative energy sources."

Prediction Example 2: Topic Logic Prediction

You hear: "This new technology can replace old methods. It's more reliable and..."

Predict: Speaker will mention more advantages

Actual: "...and has less environmental impact."

Prediction Example 3: Problem-Solution Pattern

You hear: "Many people consume too much energy at home. To help solve this problem..."

Predict: Speaker will give advice to cut back on energy use

Actual: "...we should instruct families how to save energy."

💡 Speaking Application:

Use prediction in speaking by setting up your listeners: "I want to talk about three practical solutions..." This helps them predict and follow your ideas.

🔄 What is Paraphrasing Strategy?

Paraphrasing means expressing the same idea using different words and structures. This essential speaking technique helps you communicate clearly, confirm understanding, and handle vocabulary gaps naturally.

🎯 Why Use Paraphrasing?

  • Communicate when you don't know exact words
  • Check that others understand your meaning
  • Make complex ideas clearer and simpler
  • Show understanding of what you've heard

📝 How to Apply Paraphrasing:

  • Use synonyms: "big" → "large," "important" → "significant"
  • Change word forms: "pollution affects" → "the effect of pollution"
  • Restructure sentences: Active ↔ passive voice
  • Use explanation phrases: "In other words," "What I mean is"

Paraphrasing Set 1: Environmental Action

Original: "We need to cut back on using fossil fuels."

Paraphrase 1: "We should reduce our use of oil and gas."

Paraphrase 2: "Using less traditional energy sources is necessary."

Paraphrase 3: "It's important to decrease fossil fuel consumption."

Paraphrasing Set 2: Technology Solutions

Original: "This innovative technology has a huge impact worldwide."

Paraphrase 1: "This new invention affects the whole world significantly."

Paraphrase 2: "Around the globe, this creative solution makes a big difference."

Paraphrase 3: "Globally, this advanced technology creates major changes."

Paraphrasing Set 3: Personal Responsibility

Original: "Each individual is capable of making practical changes."

Paraphrase 1: "Every person can make realistic improvements."

Paraphrase 2: "All of us have the ability to create useful changes."

Paraphrase 3: "People are able to make changes that actually work."

🗣️ Useful Paraphrasing Phrases:

Introducing paraphrases: "In other words," "What I mean is," "To put it simply"

Checking understanding: "Does that make sense?" "Do you follow me?"

Clarifying meaning: "Let me explain that differently," "Another way to say this is"

💡 Speaking Application:

When someone looks confused, paraphrase immediately: "Sorry, let me say that differently..." This keeps conversation flowing naturally.

🎯 Strategy Practice

Test your prediction and paraphrasing skills!

Question 1: Prediction Strategy

You hear: "Many people think artificial energy sources are the future. However..."

What should you predict comes next?

A) More advantages of artificial energy
B) Problems or disadvantages
C) Examples of artificial energy

Question 2: Paraphrasing Strategy

Original statement: "We must replace old systems with more reliable alternatives."

Which is the best paraphrase?

A) "We need to substitute dependable options for outdated methods."
B) "We must replace old systems with more reliable alternatives."
C) "Old systems need replacement and reliability."

Question 3: Combined Strategy Application

You hear: "The environmental impact is serious. Therefore..."

You predict they'll mention solutions, but you want to paraphrase their first point. How do you respond?

A) Wait until they finish completely
B) "So you're saying the effects on the environment are significant, and..."
C) "I don't understand what you mean by impact."

Question 4: Practical Speaking Situation

You want to say: "The gradual change in our circumstances requires us to intend more carbon reduction."

But you forgot some words. Which paraphrasing strategy helps most?

A) "The slow changes in our situation mean we need to plan for less CO2."
B) Stop speaking until you remember the exact words
C) Use completely different topic vocabulary

Question 5: Advanced Prediction

You hear: "Companies worldwide are trying to consume less energy. For example..."

What pattern helps you predict what's coming?

A) Problem-solution pattern
B) General statement-specific examples pattern
C) Cause-effect pattern