II. Now make the telephone call yourself, using the words above. Try not to use the notes

III. It is not always possible to follow your original plans. You, or your contact, may want to change an appointment. Study the expressions below.

To apologize, say: I’m afraid that…

I’m sorry but

Example: I’ m afraid that I can’t manage Thursday.

I’m sorry but I’m going to Boston on Friday.

To suggest another time, say: Could I suggest…?

What about…?

Perhaps…?

Could we fix another time?

Responding: That’ll be fine.

That’s OK.

No, sorry, I can’t make it then.

My diary’s rather full that day/week.

Sorry, I’ve already got an appointment at that time.

Below is a schedule for your week in Sidney. Before you leave for Sidney you receive some telephone calls from people you are going to visit. They want to change their appointments. You would prefer not to meet them on the day they want, suggest a different time on the original day. Role play the dialogue.

Monday, 12 November

Morning: arrive Sydney airport 8.30 a.m.

Afternoon 3. p.m: meet Tim Brown (agent) at hotel

Tuesday, 13 November

Morning 10 a.m: Mr. Whitley

Afternoon:

Wednesday, 14 November

Morning:

Afternoon 2 p.m: Lund & Lund Associates (Mr. William Lund)

Thursday, 15 November

Morning:

Afternoon 3 p. m: Jenny Kinn+colleagues (B.I.G. Distribution)

Friday, 16 November

Morning 11 a.m: Tim Brown

Afternoon: Flight 390, depart Sidney 6 p.m.