THE BIG IDEA: HELP → PROBLEM → LOCATION → ACTION
1. “I need help.”
A direct way to begin when you need assistance.
2. “Please call an ambulance.”
Ask another person to contact ambulance services.
3. “Please call the police.”
Ask another person to contact the police.
4. “Someone is hurt.”
Explain that another person is injured.
5. “I’m hurt.”
Explain that you are injured.
6. “There’s been an accident.”
Introduce what has happened in one short sentence.
7. “I don’t know where I am.”
Say clearly when you cannot identify your location.
8. “Can you tell them where we are?”
Ask someone nearby to explain the location.
9. “Is it safe to stay here?”
Ask for information about the place you are in.
10. “What should I do?”
Ask for the next instruction. Listen and ask for repetition if needed.
Put it together
“I need help. Someone is hurt. We’re outside the station. Please call an ambulance.”
Use the Four Finger Rule
WANT TO: What do you want to accomplish?
HAVE TO: What facts do you have to explain?
NEED TO: What question do you need answered?
MIGHT: What might you need to repeat or clarify?
Prepare your first sentence and one backup question. If you do not understand, try: “Could you say that again, please?”
Stop memorizing English. Start using it.
Try Free Week 1 and prepare for your next real conversation.
Explore the complete 52-week Four Finger Rule program — US$52 one time.
Related lesson: English for a lost passport.
