TravelAdvanced

Taking a diving lesson in English (advanced)

Advanced English for taking a diving lesson. Key line: “Hi, I'm thinking of trying scuba—could I join a beginner lesson today?”

Full script

LinHi, I'm thinking of trying scuba—could I join a beginner lesson today?
ThemSure—have you ever been underwater, or would this be your very first time?
LinMy first time, unless snorkeling counts; I mostly just argued with my goggles.
ThemThat still counts as water confidence. We start shallow, nice and easy, no heroics.
LinGood, because I'm not trying to impress any fish on my first day.
ThemFair enough. The lesson takes two hours, and we provide all the gear.
LinPerfect—what's the price, and is there anything I should bring besides courage?
ThemIt's eighty dollars; just bring a swimsuit—and don't worry, the fish rarely judge.

Key phrases

The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.

want to try

✓ I'm thinking of trying scuba.

Thinking about trying scuba.

Softer than I want to

join a lesson

✓ Could I join a beginner lesson today?

A polite way to ask about today's class

join is natural; book also works

does it count?

✓ Unless snorkeling counts.

If snorkeling counts.

counts = is included

what to bring

✓ Is there anything I should bring?

Ask this about what to prepare

Useful for asking what to prepare

Quick answers

want to try: what to say in English

Say “I'm thinking of trying scuba.” — thinking about trying scuba. Softer than I want to.

join a lesson: what to say in English

Say “Could I join a beginner lesson today?” — a polite way to ask about today's class. join is natural; book also works.

does it count: what to say in English

Say “Unless snorkeling counts.” — if snorkeling counts. counts = is included.

what to bring: what to say in English

Say “Is there anything I should bring?” — ask this about what to prepare. Useful for asking what to prepare.

Next: Small talk with a neighbor All scenes