English conversation A1–A2: video chat exercises

For A1–A2 English conversation, choose a predictable task: say what you like, ask a short question and understand a simple answer. At A1, use prepared phrases; at A2, add a reason or detail. These exercises guide practice, not a level assessment.

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Two avatars exchanging messages around a globe.

A1 and A2: two ways to work on the same topic

At A1, limit the task to exchanging a preference and recognizing the answer. Agree that your partner will speak slowly and repeat when needed. A brief session provides practice without requiring a long chat.

At A2, add a reason, approximate frequency or follow-up question. You need not give your real schedule: use an invented routine. This distinction is an editorial practice adaptation, not an official CEFR test.

Four cards to get started

Choose a row and alternate roles. First answer using the example, then change one word to make it your own.

Questions and extensions for A1–A2 English
AskRespuesta A1A2 extension
Do you like music?Yes, I do.I like pop because it makes me happy.
What food do you like?I like rice.I like rice with vegetables. It is easy to cook.
Do you prefer films or books?I prefer films.I prefer films, but I also enjoy short stories.
What do you do for fun?I play games.I play puzzle games because I enjoy solving problems.

Exercise: five turns, one question at a time

Ask permission for a few minutes of practice. If the other person declines, return to normal conversation or say goodbye. Do not assume they will be your teacher.

  1. 1

    Say hello

    Hi! I'm practising simple English. Can we talk about hobbies? — Introduce your learning goal and ask permission.

  2. 2

    Answer

    Use a phrase from the table. At A2, add because and a reason; at A1, completing the preference is enough.

  3. 3

    Return

    Ask And you? Wait for the reply and identify a word you understood.

  4. 4

    Clarify

    Use Please repeat or What does that mean?

  5. 5

    Wrap up

    Thanks, that was useful. Afterwards, try repeating your answer without looking at the table.

How to check whether the task helps

Check observable actions: did you ask a question without reading, understand a preference or request repetition? Yes means you completed that task, not that you have a particular level.

If you need much support, repeat the topic with fewer words. If comfortable, change topic or add a reason. Move to B1–B2 to practice stories and comparisons without treating a single call as an exam.

Bring your practice to notmegle

notmegle offers browser-based 1:1 video conversations for adults 18+ and requires an account. Before searching, prepare your camera and microphone, review available preferences and agree on the topic and language with your partner.

A preference does not guarantee an immediate match or establish someone's level or native-speaker status. The service does not replace lessons, assessment or a teacher. You can move on, block or report when needed.

Sources consulted

Primary sources reviewed for this guide. The consultation date appears beside each link.

  1. CEFR levelsCouncil of Europe · accessed on
  2. CEFR: companion volume and language versionsCouncil of Europe · accessed on

Frequently asked questions

Can I practice on video chat at A1?

Suggest a very brief exchange with prepared questions and ask for help understanding. The other person must agree; a match does not guarantee that support.

Do these exercises certify an A2 level?

No. They are practice suggestions inspired by communication tasks. A chat result is not a CEFR assessment or certification.

English conversation A1–A2: video chat exercises | notmegle