The document discusses strategies for teaching speaking skills. It begins by defining speaking and its importance for language learners. It then outlines three key areas of knowledge for speaking: mechanics, functions, and social/cultural rules. The document recommends using a balanced approach combining language input, structured output, and communicative output. It provides examples of activities for each, such as information gap activities, jigsaw activities, role plays and discussions. The overall goal is to provide authentic practice opportunities to help students communicate effectively.