Reporting a Theft (Intermediate-Advanced)

Practice on Your Own

Imagine that you are living or traveling in a country where the language is spoken. While you are out shopping downtown, your purse or wallet is stolen. You need to call the police or go to the station to report the theft.

• Make a list of the questions that the police may ask you. For example, what time did the theft occur? Where were you? Did you see the person who stole your purse or wallet? What does your purse or wallet look like? How much cash did you have? What else was in your purse or wallet (credit card, debit card, ID, etc.)?
• Think about how you will answer the officer’s questions. You will need to give as much detail as possible.
• Practice the conversation out loud.

Practice in Conversation Session

• Have a warm‐up conversation where you talk about the items that you typically carry in your purse or wallet. Describe your purse or wallet.
• Be prepared to role play reporting the theft of your purse or wallet to the police. The conversation can be in person or over the phone. Make sure to give as many details as possible. Then switch roles with your role play partner and repeat the conversation.
  • You may choose to expand on this situation by role playing other conversations, such as calling the bank to report your debit card stolen.
• Do another similar role play. This time someone broke into your home or hotel room while you were out. Make sure to tell the police what items were taken, when the theft occurred, etc. Switch roles with your role play partner and repeat the conversation.
• Have a follow‐up discussion with your conversation partner and fellow students. Have you or someone you know been a victim of theft? What steps can you take to protect your belongings while traveling?