THE BIG IDEA: PROBLEM → TIME → HELP → INSTRUCTIONS
1. “I have a headache.”
Name a symptom in a short sentence.
2. “My ___ hurts.”
Put the body part in the space: “My throat hurts.”
3. “It started yesterday.”
Say when the problem began. Change the time to match your situation.
4. “It’s getting worse.”
Explain that the symptom is becoming stronger or more difficult.
5. “Do you have something for this?”
Ask the pharmacist what options are available.
6. “Do I need a prescription?”
Ask whether the medicine requires a prescription.
7. “How often should I take it?”
Ask for the frequency of use. Confirm the instructions instead of guessing.
8. “Will this make me sleepy?”
Ask whether sleepiness is a possible effect.
9. “I’m allergic to…”
Tell the pharmacist the substance you are allergic to. If you do not know its English name, ask for help identifying it.
10. “Should I see a doctor?”
Ask the pharmacist whether you need a doctor’s assessment.
Put it together
“My throat hurts. It started yesterday. Do you have something for this? I’m allergic to…”
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.
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Related lesson: English for a lost passport.
