I know

The phrase 'I know' refers to facts. Notice we do not use 'it'.

She's a very talented girl. - I know.

They're building a new office building downtown. - I know.

Making Small Talk

Small Talk for English Learners

Small talk is used at parties, when meeting people, etc. to be kind and get along with others at the events. Hopefully, small talk leads to more interesting conversations. However, the ability to small talk and use appropriate phrases can help get the conversation flowing.

Language Functions

When we talk to people, we always have reasons why. Whether we want to apologize, request, express a wish or simply just to disagree with somebody. Here are some guides I found from a helpful link....Enjoy!!!

Contrasting Ideas

There are a number of formulas used when contrasting ideas in English. Here are some of the most common:

Formula:      main statement, but contrasting statement

I'd really like to come to the film, but I have to study tonight.

Use a comma or semi colon (;) with 'but'. 'But' is the most common way to show contrasting ideas.

Formula:      main statement, in spite of contrasting statement OR 

                   in spite of contrasting statement, main statement

They continued on their journey, in spite of the pouring rain.

Use 'in spite of' plus a noun, noun phrase or gerund.

Formula:       main statement, despite contrasting statement OR

                    Despite contrasting statement, main statement

They continued on their journey, despite the pouring rain.

Use 'despite' plus a noun, noun phrase or gerund.

Formula:        main statement, although contrasting statement OR 

                     Although contrasting statement, main statement

We wanted to buy a sports car, although we knew that fast cars can be dangerous.

Use 'although' with a subject and a verb.

More English Functions
Disagreeing
Making Complaints
Asking for Information
Giving Advice
Guessing
Being Imprecise or Vague
Saying 'No' Nicely
Showing Preferences
Making Suggestions
Offering Help
Giving Warning
Demanding Explanations

Practice Speaking

     Sometimes students need help starting a conversation to practice speaking skills. This is especially true for beginning level English leaners. Here are a number of basic dialogues that give students a starting point for practicing speaking skills which they can then vary to continue.

Introductions
Telling the Time
Giving Personal Information
In a Shop
In an Airport
Asking for Directions
In a Motel / Hotel
In a Restaurant

http://esl.about.com/b/2012/05/30/practicing-speaking.htm