Making an Online Order
Lesson Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
1. Understand key vocabulary related to online shopping.
2. Follow and give instructions for placing an online order.
3. Communicate effectively when ordering online.
1. Vocabulary for Online Ordering
Here are some important words and phrases commonly used when shopping online:
Word/Phrase Meaning
Cart / Shopping Cart A virtual place where selected items are stored before checkout.
Checkout The process of finalizing a purchase.
The address where the buyer receives bills (often same as shipping
Billing Address
address).
Shipping Address The location where the order will be delivered.
Subtotal The total cost of items before taxes and shipping fees.
Promo Code / Coupon
A special code that gives a discount on the purchase.
Code
Estimated Delivery Date The expected date when the order will arrive.
Order Confirmation A message or email confirming the details of the order.
Tracking Number A unique code used to track the delivery of the order.
Return Policy The rules about returning items if they are defective or unwanted.
2. Steps to Place an Online Order
Follow these steps to successfully order a product online:
Step 1: Browsing and Selecting Items
Visit the website of the store.
Search for the product using the search bar.
Click on the product for details (price, reviews, specifications).
Click "Add to Cart" if you want to buy it.
Step 2: Reviewing the Cart
Click on the shopping cart icon to check selected items.
Adjust quantity if necessary.
Apply a promo code if available.
Click "Proceed to Checkout."
Step 3: Entering Shipping and Billing Information
Enter your shipping address (where the order will be delivered).
Enter your billing address (if different from shipping address).
Step 4: Choosing Payment Method
Select a payment method (Credit Card, PayPal, etc.).
Enter payment details securely.
Step 5: Confirming the Order
Review all details: items, total cost, addresses, and payment method.
Click "Place Order."
You will receive an order confirmation email.
Step 6: Tracking Your Order
Use the tracking number provided in the email to check delivery updates.
3. Sample Online Order Dialogue
Here’s an example conversation between a customer and an online customer service
representative:
Customer: Hi, I just placed an order, but I entered the wrong shipping address. Can I change it?
Support: Sure! May I have your order number, please?
Customer: Yes, it's #123456.
Support: Thank you. I see your order is still processing. I can update the shipping address for
you. What’s the correct address?
Customer: It's 45 Maple Street, Springfield.
Support: Got it! Your address has been updated. You'll receive a confirmation email shortly.
Customer: Great! Thank you!
4. Practice Activity: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the sentences with the correct words:
1. Before paying for your items, you need to go to ______ to complete your order.
2. The total price before adding taxes and shipping is called the ______.
3. If you want a discount, enter a ______ before payment.
4. After placing an order, you will receive an ______ email.
5. To see where your package is, use the ______ number.
(Answers: 1. Checkout, 2. Subtotal, 3. Promo Code, 4. Order Confirmation, 5. Tracking)
5. Speaking Practice: Ordering Online by Phone
Practice this short phone conversation with a partner:
You: Hello, I’d like to place an order for a laptop.
Representative: Sure! Which model would you like?
You: I want the Dell Inspiron 15.
Representative: Great choice! Would you like express shipping or standard shipping?
You: Standard shipping, please.
Representative: Your total is $799. How would you like to pay?
You: I’ll pay by credit card.
Representative: Perfect! Your order will arrive in 5–7 business days.
