| The purpose of this study was to determine if adult English learners who used the small talk flash cards communicative activities would lower their affective filter thereby increase their motivation to speak English, and if by practicing authentic conversation with the small talk cards, it would help to increase the students' oral and written output in English. Forty adult English learners were chosen to participate in this comparison study. The study was conducted over a 4-week period. The learners' attitude towards speaking English and their English oral proficiency were scored both at the beginning of the study and at the end. Furthermore, the two groups' writing skills were evaluated and compared at the end of the study. The hypothesis, that the small talk card would help reduce the affective filter and help develop oral and written output, were minimally supported by the data collected. However, a longer study with more participants would better substantiate the results. The data showed that adult English learners enjoyed and wanted the chance to practice authentic language in class. Additionally, they benefited greatly from the practice. Therefore, teachers should make every effort to include as many of these activities as possible in their curriculum. |
