Giving Short Updates and Status Reports
1. Warm-up discussion
Discuss these questions:
- What kind of updates do you usually give in your work or daily life? (e.g., to your family, friends, or colleagues)
- How often do you give status reports for tasks or projects you are working on?
- Why do you think it's important to give clear and concise updates, especially in a professional setting?
2. Listening: A Project Update
Listen to the audio and fill in the gaps with the exact words you hear.
Hi team, just a quick on the website project. We have completed the homepage design. The content team it. However, we're still the client's feedback on the new logo. I expect to receive it by tomorrow afternoon. Once we have that, we can the branding. Overall, things are . I'll send another update on Friday.
3. Key Vocabulary for Updates
Drag the terms from the word bank to match them with their correct definitions.
4. Grammar Focus: Present Continuous for Future Plans & Ongoing Actions
We use the Present Continuous tense to talk about actions that are happening now, or for definite plans and arrangements in the future.
Structure: subject + am/is/are + verb-ing
Examples:
- "The content team is now reviewing the homepage design." (Action happening now)
- "We are meeting the client next Tuesday." (Definite future plan)
Choose the correct option to complete the sentences:
1. The project manager _______ (present) the report to the board this afternoon.
2. Right now, our developers _______ (fix) a critical bug.
3. We _______ (launch) the new marketing campaign in two weeks.
4. I _______ (not work) on the design today; I _______ (focus) on content.
5. What time _______ you _______ (meet) with the suppliers tomorrow?
5. Reading: The Art of the Quick Update
Read the blog article and fill in the blanks with appropriate words from the word bank provided.
Blog: The Art of the Quick Update
In today’s fast-paced world, clear communication is key, especially in team environments. Giving short, regular can make a huge difference in keeping everyone informed and projects on track. But what makes a good update?
Firstly, be . Your colleagues are busy, so get straight to the point. Start with the most important information: what’s done, what’s , and what’s next. Avoid unnecessary details that can distract from the core message.
Secondly, be honest about challenges. If you're encountering an issue or , mention it. It’s better to communicate early than to surprise your team later. You might even get some useful or support from others.
Finally, always include your next steps and . This helps everyone understand the timeline and what to anticipate. Remember, a quick update isn't just about reporting; it's about enabling smooth collaboration.
6. Useful Phrases for Updates
Complete the sentences below using the common phrases for giving updates. Choose the best phrase from the options provided.
1. (the marketing campaign). We've finalized the ad copy.
2. We've (the initial research phase).
3. The design team (the new user interface).
4. We're (approval from the client).
5. Unfortunately, we're (the server connection).
6. (the end of the week).
7. Overall, (despite a minor delay).
8. (Monday morning).
7. Speaking Practice: Give Your Own Update
Imagine you are working on one of these projects. Prepare a short update (1-2 minutes) to give to your team or manager. Use vocabulary and grammar from this lesson.
- Organizing a team event (e.g., a party, a workshop).
- Planning a holiday trip for yourself or your family.
- Working on a personal project (e.g., learning a new skill, creating something).
In your update, try to include:
- What you have completed.
- What you are currently working on.
- Any challenges or delays you are facing.
- What your next steps are.
- When you will provide the next update.