interactive exercises about small talk in English

Small talk in all its simplicity is an instrument which is not to be underestimated enabling people to get to know each other.
In all its banality this exchange of everyday topics makes it possible for people to check out if there is chemistry without strings attached.
In this context it is paramount to avoid conflicitve topics and keep the conversation light and superficial.
Good topics are: familiy, hobbies, job, culture, sports, weather...
Many cultures are not great small talkers, but English speakers love small talk, and any social interaction requires first the exchange of some banalaties in order to avoid intercultural friction before the actual topic is broached.