support
to give practical or emotional help
I value people who support me.
Lesson 8 of 13 · Intermediate · B1
People, places, and useful services
Describe someone or something clearly without needing its exact name.
1. Grammar: Relative clauses: who, which, that, where
Use who/that for people, which/that for things, and where for places to add identifying information. Do not repeat the subject: a person who helps me, not a person who he helps me. These identifying clauses normally do not need commas.
- A person who + verb. → A colleague who explains things clearly.
- A thing that + verb. → An app that saves time.
- A place where + subject + verb. → A library where I can concentrate.
- I prefer shops that offer helpful service.
Model conversation
A: What kind of shop do you prefer?
B: I prefer a shop that offers reliable service.
A: Is there one near your home?
B: Yes, there is a small shop where the staff remember their customers.
2. Useful words and verbs
Read each meaning and example. Make your own sentence, then try to use the word during the conversation.
repair
to fix something that is damaged
I need someone who repairs bicycles.
offer
to provide or make something available
I like shops that offer delivery.
trust
to believe someone or something is reliable
I need a service that I can trust.
reliable
able to be depended on
A reliable person does what they promise.
patient
able to stay calm while waiting or helping
I like teachers who are patient.
service
help or work provided for someone
This is a service that saves time.
customer
someone who buys from a business
A customer is someone who buys a product or service.
3. Conversation: 15 questions
Use complete sentences and add a reason or example when it fits. Open an answer starter if you need help. You may use imagined details.
Who is someone who supports you when you have a problem?
Answer starter
… is someone who …
What kind of teacher helps you learn best?
Answer starter
I learn best with a teacher who …
What is an app that you use often?
Answer starter
… is an app that …
Where is a place where you can concentrate?
Answer starter
… is a place where I can …
What kind of colleague or classmate do you enjoy working with?
Answer starter
I enjoy working with someone who …
Do you know a shop that offers reliable service?
Answer starter
I know a shop that … / I would like a shop that …
Who is someone you trust for advice?
Answer starter
… is someone who …
What is a service that saves you time?
Answer starter
… is a service that …
Where can you find someone who repairs things?
Answer starter
… is a place where …
What kind of customer do you try to be?
Answer starter
I try to be a customer who …
What is a website that helps you learn English?
Answer starter
… is a website that …
What is a place where visitors can relax in your town?
Answer starter
… is a place where visitors can …
What kind of clothes do you prefer buying?
Answer starter
I prefer clothes that …
What is a useful item that you always carry?
Answer starter
I always carry …, which helps me …
How would you describe your ideal neighborhood?
Answer starter
It is a place where … and has services that …
4. Extend your answer
Choose three questions and answer again without the starters. Use at least three words from the word bank. Add a reason with “because,” an example with “for example,” or a contrast with “but.” Ask your partner one follow-up question.