Initiation and development of conversation

Understanding Conversation Initiation

Subject selection: Choose a topic that is relevant, interesting, and understood by both parties. This forms the basis of an engaging conversation in any language, including Urdu.
Contextual awareness: Consider the social, emotional, and cultural background of the person you are conversing with. This helps to build a conversation that is respectful and comfortable.
Question formulation: Frame open-ended questions to initiate the conversation and allow the conversation to develop naturally.

Developing Conversation

Listening skills: Active listening is crucial in conversation development. It’s not just about speaking; paying attention to what the other person is saying allows for better responses.
Reply formulation: Formulate replies which contribute to the conversation. The usage of Urdu language idioms, proverbs, and phrases can further enrich your conversation.
Interjections and affirmations: Use these during the conversation to maintain the flow. Simple affirmations like ‘Ji’, ‘Theek hai’, ‘Bilkul’ etc., can express agreement and understanding.

Balancing Conversation

Turn-taking: Ensure that the conversation should not be one-sided. Make sure to give the other person an opportunity to express their views.
Appropriate pacing: The speed of the conversation should be comfortable for both participants. Neither too slow, nor too fast.
Topic shifting: Be apt in delicately shifting the topic when there’s a sign of lack of interest, discomfort, or if the topic has been exhausted.

Evaluation and Improvement

Feedback exchange: Exercise giving and receiving feedback after practice sessions. It could be from an Urdu teacher, a native Urdu speaker, or a peer who is also practicing Urdu conversation.
Self-assessment: Reflect on your conversation initiation, development, and sustaining strategies. Note any weak areas or patterns that need improvement.
Change implementation: Use reflections and feedback to improve your conversation skills. This might involve working on your vocabulary, pronunciation, listening skills, or simply your confidence.

Remember, the key to good conversation is based on the respect for the other person’s point of view and the warmth in your responses, all the while maintaining your proficiency in Urdu.