Speaking English is not only about using proper grammar. To use English effectively, you need to understand the culture in which it is spoken. Here are a number of important tips to remember when speaking English in the United States Conversation Tips Talk about location. ##1## When speaking to strangers, 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 it's a beautiful place to live in.” Most Americans will then willingly talk about their experiences living or visiting that particular city or area. Talk about work. ##2## It's not considered impolite and is a popular topic of discussion between strangers. Talk about sports. Americans love sports! ##3## When speaking about football, most Americans understand “American Football”, not soccer. ##4## Many Americans prefer first names. Americans often prefer using first names, even when dealing with people in very different positions. Americans will generally say, “Call me Tom.”and then expect you to remain on a first name basis. Public Behavior Always shake hands. ##5## This is true of both men and women. Other forms of greeting such as kissing on the cheeks is generally not appreciated. Smoking is out! Smoking, even in public places, is strongly disapproved of by most Americans in the modern United States. A. Addressing people. B. Talking with people. C. However, they love American sports. D. Americans love to talk about location. E. Americans commonly ask “What do you do?”. F. Americans prefer to make friends with foreigners. G. Americans shake hands when greeting each other.