Match the items on the left to the boxes on the right.

Objects to move

  • some of the easiest sounds to make
  • give you an extra split second to decide what to say next
  • helps you keep speaking, rather than leaving a pause where someone else could take over
  • They can also give listeners time to process the information being spoken
  • can increase the listener’s memory for the word that comes after “um”.
  • harder to follow conversations when fillers aren’t used.
  • they can be said without a great deal of thought too
  • looked down on as sloppy or meaningless … a sign of uncertainty, stupidity or weakness,
Benefits Disadvantages