[michèle 2]

I am making a list of expressions to help my students with changing the subject in a conversation.
By the way
That reminds me ( of )
Speaking about /of
Before I forget
Oh, while I remember
I just thought of something
Oh, there's something else I wanted to say/ ask you
This has got nothing to do with what we're talking about, but ..
Changing the subject for a minute..
That's funny, because something similar...
Incidentally
I know this is changing the subject but...
Can you see other expressions ?
Thanks for your answers
Michèle

[michèle 2]

I mean, can you think of any others?

[emile]

You've pretty much got it covered, I'd say.

You could note that when people switch from small talk to business, they change their tone of voice and say something like, "Right, then..." or "Shall we ..." in British English. "Let's get down to business' could be another one.

[DaveESL]

Here's a few off the top of my head:

Another thing is...
What about...
Sorry to go off on a tangent, but...
I know this isn't really what we're talking about, but...

Anyways. Hope this helps.
Dave

[kimyushin]

Thank for you sharing your ideas on "changing the subject during a conversation."

I teach Koreans English; although they can use words and grammar, they often miss the non-verbal aspect of English like the need for transition phrases.

They often jump directly into another topic without any warning; I often end up guessing what they are talking about.

Again you have great suggestions. Does anyone have ideas on how to teach these ideas in a one-on-one setting?

I often teach one-on-one; I teach transition phrases by using drills, dictation and role-plays. I make a sentence, and the student has to repeat it, without any written copy.

They are effective, but they need to be combined with other techniques and games. Boredom sets in quickly, if drilling and role-plays are the only techniques used.

I have run out of ideas. Any suggestions?

Thanks