Restrooms (Novice)

Practice on Your Own

• Practice using the word(s) for “restroom” in a sentence. Are there different words for restroom in the language you are studying? Do they vary from casual to polite?
• Imagine you are inside and need to locate the restroom. How would you ask where it is or if the place you are in has one? Practice locating the restroom in multiple contexts: a shopping center, a restaurant, your friend’s house, etc.
• What is the best way to say “I need to use the restroom” in the language? Ask your conversation partner if you are unsure which expressions are the most polite/appropriate.
• For some countries, the LangMedia language collections have information about restrooms. You may also wish to look online for other information on what restrooms are like, whether there are fees for public restrooms, etc.

Practice in Conversation Session

• Practice formally and informally asking for the restroom: to a friend, a waiter, a stranger, etc. Make sure to switch roles with your partner, and practice other polite expressions (i.e., “excuse me,” “thank you very much”).
• Designate different spaces in your classroom or building as the “restroom.” Practice specific directions as your ability allows.
• Ask your conversation partner about any culture-specific etiquette involving restrooms. Is it appropriate to use the bathroom as a guest at someone’s house? At a restaurant, do you need to buy food or drink before asking for the restroom? What about another type of business?