CONTENTS

http://www.esl-lab.com/easy 2-52

http://www.esl-lab.com/medium 53-130

Where Did the English Language Come From?............. 131-135

Administration Guide: Conversation 1-6. 136-140

Technology Report 141

The Streadfast Tin Soldier. 142-145

Tick Tock Turkey and the Disappearing Sandwich 146-151

1. Answering Machine 2. A Day at School 3. Apartments for Rent 4. Camping Under the Stars 5. Christmas is Coming! 6. Clothing Styles 7. Business Communications 8. College Life 9. Daily Schedule 10. DVD Movie Rentals 11. Eye Glasses for You 12. A Fun Day 13. Family Activities 14. Family Relationships 15. First Date 16. Getting Around Tokyo 17. Good Old Blues 18. Hamburger Restaurant 19. Happy Birthday! 20. Heavenly Pies Restaurant 21. Hotel Reservations 22. Immigration and Customs 23. Lost in the Crowd 24. Meeting Singles 25. Nice to Meet You 26. Party Invitations 27. Party Time! 28. Phone Message 29. Picnic Preparations 30. Reading Time 31. Rental Shop (Version B) 32. Shopping for the Day 33. Sightseeing in Town 34. Snack Time 35. So, what's the matter? 36. Social Media Web Sites 37. Spending Money 38. Tell me about yourself 39. Train Tickets 40. Travel Arrangements 41. Travel on Sky Airlines 42. What a Busy Day! 43. Where are you from?

[ Phone ringing . . . ] Bill : Hey, this is Bill. I'm sorry I'm not in. Just leave a message. [ Beep ] Hey Bill. This is Hank. I'm just calling to let you know that I'll be a little late to the game tomorrow night. I have to work a few extra hours to finish a report. I should wrap things up sometime between seven and eight though. Oh, then I'm planning on dropping by Lisa's house for about an hour since she's been sick recently. And, uh, one more thing. I'llswing by my house to pick up some food for the game. See you then.

Randall : Hello. Today I'm interviewing Joshua on his experiences going to a Japanese school. Now Joshua, what time do you go to school? Joshua : Eight O'clock. Randall : Eight O'clock. And do you go by yourself, or on a school bus? Joshua : No, I have a group that goes with me. Randall : So you go with a group? Joshua : Uh-huh. Randall : Now what kinds of things do you take to school? Joshua : I take my taiso fuku , that is gym clothes, and I take my backpack and my books [ Oh, okay . ] and stuff like that. Randall : Okay and what is the first thing you do when you get to school? Joshua : We do "kiritsu, rei." Randall : "Kiritsu" and "rei." Now what are those? Joshua : It means "stand up, bow." Randall : Stand up and bow. Joshua : Uh-huh. Randall : And what do you study at school? Joshua : We study kokugo , that is writing and reading and stuff like that [ Okay ], and sansu , that's math. [ Okay . ]. And, let's see . . . , we do gym too. Randall : Okay, and where do you eat lunch? Do you have a lunchroom or cafeteria? Joshua : No, we eat in our classroom. Randall : You eat in your classroom! [ Yeah . ]. Oh wow. That is very interesting.Now what time do you come home from school? Joshua : We come home sometimes at 3:00 and sometimes at 2:00. Randall : Okay, well thank you very much Joshua. Joshua : You're welcome.

Roger : Hello. Ann : Hello Roger? This is Ann. Roger : Oh hi, Ann. How have you been? And how's your new apartment working out ? Ann : Well, that's what I'm calling about. You see, I've decided to look for a new place. Roger : Oh, what's the problem with your place now? I thought you liked the apartment. Ann : Oh, I do, but it's a little far from campus, and the commute is just killing me. Do you think you could help? I thought you might know more about the housing situation near the school. Roger : Okay, what's your budget like? I mean how much do you want to spend on rent? Ann :Uh, somewhere under $200 a month, including utilities , if I could. Oh, and I'd prefer to rent a furnished apartment. Roger : Hmm. And anything else? Ann :Yeah, I need a parking space. Roger : Well, I know there's an apartment complex around the corner that seems to have a few vacancies . I'll drop by there on my way to class today. Ann : Hey, thanks a lot. Roger : No problem. Key Vocabulary work out ( phrasal verb ): going well - My new job schedule has really worked out for me. commute ( verb ; also a noun): to travel between home and work or school - VERB: I have to commute two hours each day to get to work. - NOUN: How long is your commute to work every day? utilities ( noun ): public services including water, gas, and electricity - How much do you pay for utilities each month? furnished ( adjective ): containing furniture, for example, a sofa, tables, and washing machine - I decided to rent a furnished apartment so I wouldn't have to buy so many things. vacancies ( noun ): rooms not being used or rented - Do you have any vacancies starting next month?

Paul : Sara, I've been looking forward to our yearly campout for three weeks.[Me too] It's going to be a wonderful day for hiking tomorrow. The great outdoors. Camping under the stars .This is the life. Sara : Yeah, but Paul, I'm a little bit worried about the weather though. The weatherman said it was going to rain later tonight. Paul : Ah. nonsense . Nothing can spoilour adventure. Those weather reports are never right. Sara : And it said there was a chance of high winds. Paul : Ah. Don't worry. [thunder] Sara : Paul. Paul. Did you remember to bring our raincoats just in case, like I told you? [light rain] Paul : Uh . . . no. I left them on the front porch . [heavy rain] Sara : What are we going to do now? Paul : We'll have to sleep in the car! Hurry get in! [door shut] Sara : So, Paul, what are we going to do now? Paul : How about playing a card game? Sara : Uhh. I left them next to the picnic table. [Hmmm] Hey, you don't want me to go out in this rain and get them, do you? Paul : No. That's okay. So what now? Sara : Well, we could head down the mountain and stay at that hotel we passed on the way up, or go home. Paul : Hmm, why don't we just make the best of it here and hope the weather clears. Sara : That's a good idea. Key Vocabulary

nonsense ( noun ): untrue or incomprehensible statement or idea - Stop talking nonsense and tell us exactly what happened. spoil ( verb ): ruin; frustrate; block; prevent - I hope this bad weather doesn't spoil our picnic this afternoon. porch ( noun ): a small area just outside the front door of homes where you can sit and relax

- Let's go sit on the porch and enjoy the cool evening breeze.

head down ( phrasal verb ): go down - I'll head down to the store after dinner to pick up some milk. make the best of it ( idiom ): do what you can under the circumstances - We've had to make the best of it ever since dad died last year.

Man : Well, Christmas is almost here. So, what do you want from Santa this year? Micky : A toy car and walkie-talkies . Man : Really? Well, and what about you, Emily? What do you want for Christmas? Emily : If I can't have a Barbie radio, um, I would have some fragile dolls. And if I can't have some fragile dolls, it doesn't really matter what I get. Man : Wow. Well, I'm excited, and Santa is coming. And how is Santa going to get inside the house, Micky? Micky : Um, go down the chimney . . . Man : Okay, so he's going to go down the chimney, and should we prepare anything for Santa? Micky : Yeah! Man : What are we going to prepare for him, Emily? Emily : Um. We could prepare some cookies for him and some hot chocolate, and, um, we could give Rudolph some, um, hot chocolate in a bowl and a cookie. And we could give some of the reindeer some cookies and some hot chocolate in a bowl. Man : Well, what do you think? They, Um, reindeer probably don't eat cookies, but what else could we give them, Micky? Micky : Um, apples. Man : Ah, that's good. And, uh . . . Emily : Oranges and bananas. Man : Okay and what time do you think we should go to bed? Emily : Um, seven. Man : About seven o'clock. Well, that's exciting. I'm really happy that Christmas is coming.

Key Vocabulary walkie-talkies (noun) : small portable radio receiver-transmitters used for communicating with others - We always take walkie-talkies when we go hiking in case of emergencies. barbie (noun) : the name of a brand doll - My daughter wants a barbie doll house for Christmas. fragile (adjective) : easily broken or damaged, delicate - Handle this vase with care. It's very fragile .

chimney (noun) : the place in a house where smoke from a fire goes up and out of the roof - You should clean out the chimney before we use it this winter. Rudolph (pronoun) : the name of Santa's reindeer with the shiny red nose - According to the story, Santa needed Rudolph to guide his sleigh on one stormy, Christmas Eve.

Ashley : Hey, Jake. Are you ready for your trip? Jake : Well, not really. I still have to buy some clothes. Ashley : Well, what's the weather like where you're going? Jake : Well, uh, it's really hot in the summer, so I'm going to buy some shorts, sandals, and a few t-shirts. Ashley : What about the rest of the year? Jake : People say that the fall can still be warm until November, so I'm going to buy some jeans and a few casual shirts. Ashley : Will you need any warm clothes for the winter? Jake : Well, the weather doesn't get too cold, but it often snows in the mountains, so I'm going to buy a couple of warm sweaters, a jacket, and a hat. I don't have room in my suitcase to pack a coat, so I'm going to wait until I get there and buy it when I really need it. Ashley : Are you going to take anything else? Jake : They say it rains cats and dogs in the spring, but again, I'll probably just wait and pick up a raincoat or an umbrella later on. But, I'm going to take a good pair of shoes because I plan on walking to and from school everyday. Ashley : Do you need any clothing for formal occasions ? Jake : Well, you never know when you might need something on the spur of the moment for a wedding or maybe someone's graduation, or a nice date, so I'll probably take some nice slacks , a dress shirt, and a couple (of) crazy ties or two. Ashley : Um, that makes sense . Jake : And I'll just rent a suit or tuxedo if I need anything more formal. Hey, maybe I'll get married. Ashley : You? Married? Hah! Jake : Wait. What are you trying to say? Ashley : I just can't imagine you decked out in a tuxedo for any formal occasion.[ What?! ] I mean, for high school graduation, you wore an old pair of jeans and tennis shoes. Jake : Hey, there was a reason for that, so let me explain. [ Yeah, ha, ha. ] No, really. You see, it goes like this . . .

Key Vocabulary

rest (noun) : what is left over after everything else has be used, eaten, etc. - Wow. Your suitcase is already full of shirts and shoes. What are you going to do with the rest of your clothing? room (noun) : space - Do you have any room in your backpack for a couple more books? pack (verb) : fill a suitcase, box, or another container - You'd better start packing your bags tonight so we don't have to rush out the door tomorrow. rain cats and dogs (idiom) : rain very hard - Last night, I was walking home from work when it began raining cats and dogs .Unfortunately, I didn't have my umbrella with me. pick up (phrasal verb) : buy something - Could you pick up some white socks from the store on your way home from work? formal occasion (noun) : an important event where people wear special clothing and behave politely - I sometimes rent a tuxedo for formal occasions . I don't want to buy one that I will only wear once every few years. on the spur of the moment (idiom) : without planning or preparation - She always makes decisions on the spur of the moment , so you never know what she's planning. slacks (noun) : good-quality pants - You don't have to wear a suit to the event, but you might want to wear a pair of nice slacks and a conservative tie. make sense (idiom) : have a clear meaning or a sensible explanation - It makes sense to ask teachers to wear a nice shirt and tie to work. be decked out (idiom) : dressed in formal clothes for special occasions - Everyone was shocked when my brother came to the barbecue decked out in a white tuxedo. Then, we realized he came to propose to his girlfriend.

Secretary : Hello, Ultimate Computers. May I help you? Caller : Yes, this is Jack Kordell from Hunter's Office Supplies. May I speak to Elaine Strong, please? Secretary : I'm sorry, but she's not in right now. Caller : Okay, do you know when she'll be back? Secretary : Uh, yes, she should be here later on this afternoon maybe about 4:30. May I take a message? Caller : Yes. Ms. Strong sent me a brochure detailing your newest line of laptop computers with a description of other software products, but there wasn't any information about after-sales service. Secretary : Oh, I'm sorry. Would you like me to fax that to you? Caller : Yes, but our fax is being repaired at the moment, and it won't be working until around 2:30. Hum . . . could you try sending that information around 3:30? That should give me time to look over the material before I call Ms. Strong, say, around 5:00. Secretary : Sure. Could I have your name, telephone number, and fax number, please? Caller : Yes. Jack Kordell and the phone number is 560-1287. And the fax number is 560-1288. Secretary : Okay. Jack Kordell. Is your name spelled Cordel? Caller : No. It's Kordell with a "K" and two "l's." Kordell." Secretary : All right, Mr. Kordell. And your phone number is 560-1287, and the fax number is 5601288. Is that correct? Caller : Yes it is. Secretary : All right. I'll be sure to send you the fax this afternoon. Caller : Okay, bye.

Key Vocabulary

brochure (noun) : pamphlet, small booklet - Could you send me a brochure of your laptop computers? detail (verb, also noun) : to explain - The manager decided to detail his recent visit to our parent company.

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Maria : Oh, hi Dave. Long time, no see! Dave : Hi Maria. I was in the neighborhood, so I thought I'd drop by. Maria : Come on in. [Thanks.] Take a seat. Would you like anything to drink? I have Sprite or orange juice. Dave : Sprite would be fine. Uh, so, how have you been? Maria : Oh, not bad. And you? Dave : Oh, I'm doing okay, but school has been really hectic these days, and I haven't had time to relax. Maria : By the way, what's your major anyway? Dave : Hotel management. Maria : Well, what do you want to do once you graduate? Dave : Uh... I haven't decided for sure, but I think I'd like to work for a hotel or travel agency in this area. How about you? Maria : Well, when I first started college, I wanted to major in French, but I realized I might have a hard time finding a job using the language, so I changed majors to computer science. [Oh]. With the right skills, landing a job in the computer industry shouldn't be as difficult. Dave : So, do you have a part-time job to support yourself through school? Maria : Well, fortunately for me, I received a four-year academic scholarship [Wow] that pays for all of my tuition and books. Dave : Wow. That's great. Maria : Yeah. How about you? Are you working your way through school ? Dave : Yeah. I work three times a week at a restaurant near campus. Maria : Oh. What do you do there? Dave : I'm a cook. Maria : How do you like your job? Dave : It's okay. The other workers are friendly, and the pay isn't bad. Key Vocabulary ectic ( adjective ): very busy - Life is always very hectic when you're trying to work and go to school at the same time. major ( noun or verb ): course of study - I'm thinking about majoring in computer science next year. (verb) - What is your major ? (noun) land (a job) ( verb ): to secure, win, or get a job - It is becoming increasingly difficult to land a job in the field of language teaching. work (your way) through (school) ( verb ): think through, in this case, work while going to school to support yourself - Since my parents had no money, I had no choice but to work myself through school - Sometimes we just have to work through many new experiences before we understand the language and culture .

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Woman : So, what's your usual day like? You always seem so busy. Man : Well, I usually get up around 5:00 am and work on the computer until 6:00 am Woman : Why do you get up so early? Man : Well, I have to leave home at twenty to seven (6:40 am) so I can catch a bus at 7:00 o'clock . It takes me about twenty minutes to walk to the bus stop from my house. Woman : And what time do you get to work? Man : Uh, my bus takes about an hour to get there, but it stops right in front of my office. Woman : That's nice. And what time do you get off work ? Man : Uh, around 5:00 o'clock. Then, we eat dinner around 6:30, and my wife and I read and play with the kids until 8:00 or so. Woman : So, when do you work on your website? You said one time that you create it at home? Man : Well, my wife and I often watch TV or talk until 10:00 o'clock. She then often reads while I work on my site, and I sometimes stay up until the early hours of the morning, but I try to finish everything by one or two. Woman : And then you get up at 5:00 am? Man : Well, yeah, but it's important to live a balanced life. I enjoy what I do, but you have to set aside time for the family and yourself. Woman : I agree. Man : But I think my wife has the toughest job. She spends her whole day taking care of our family . . . taking the kids to school, working in the garden, buyinggroceries , taking the kids to piano lessons . . . [ Wow! ] It's a full-time job, but she enjoys what she does. Woman : Well, it sounds like you're a busy, but lucky man. Man : I think so too.
Key Vocabulary

catch (verb) : to get on - I have to catch a bus in front of the bus station. get off work (verb) : finish work - She seldom gets off work before 6:00 pm dinner (noun) : sometimes supper - We seldom eat dinner after 8:00 pm stay up (verb) : not go to bed - I almost never stay up past midnight. set aside (verb) : reserve, allow, or give a certain amount to - You have to set aside enough time to study for your classes.

toughest (adjective) : most difficult, hardest - The toughest part about being a parent is setting aside time for both work, family, and self.

take care of (verb) : watch, look after - You should take care of yourself so you don't get sick. groceries (noun) : food and other items at a supermarket - Mom is going to pick up some groceries from the store for dinner.

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Man : Hey, Kathy. I'm thinking about renting a movie for tonight's party, and I want to know what kind of movies you like. Woman : Okay. What kind of movies do you have in mind ? Man : Well, what about action movies? Woman : Ah, I don't really like action movies. Too much violence. Man : Okay, do you like comedies? Woman : Now, I do enjoy comedies. Man : Fine. Well, what do you think of horror movies or love stories? Woman : Uh . . . I'm not really crazy about horror movies, but love stories are often fun to watch. Oh, and I really like foreign films, too. Man : Okay. I'll go to the video store and see what I can find. Thanks.

Key Vocabulary

have in mind (verb) : to think about - What activities do you have in mind for tomorrow's picnic? crazy about (phrasal verb) : to like something very much - Carla is crazy about rock music.

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Male Voice: "Hello and thank you for calling American Vision, this area's fineststore in eyeglasses for you and your family. Our store hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. We're open Saturdays until six. Closed on Sundays. Please visit our store on Saturday for an additional 20% off on our already low prices on all brands of eyewear.And remember: eye exams are free."

Key Vocabulary

finest (adjective) : excellent, high quality - These are the finest glasses I have ever seen. additional (adjective) : extra, added - Buy now and receive an additional two dollars off the regular price.

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Girl : Dad, I'm bored today. I want to go to a movie? Dad : A movie today? Well, I don't know. Here. Let me look at the newspaper. Okay. Ah, here's a movie that starts in the afternoon at 2:45. Well, should we take mommy with us? Girl : Yeah . Dad : Okay, we have to wait formommy because she's at a meeting right now. Girl : Okay. Dad : Alright. And what should we do after we see the movie? Girl : Go on a walk. Dad : Well, where would you like to go on a walk? Would you like to go down to the beach or through the park? Girl : To the beach. Dad : To the beach. Well, that sounds great. And then maybe we can go out to eat tonight. Does that sound okay? Girl : Yeah.

Key Vocabulary

yeah (adverb) : informal for yes; also yep - May I use your pen. Yeah , sure. mommy (noun) : an informal word for mother usually used by children; alsomom . - Mommy. May I watch TV?

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Emily : Welcome home, Dad. Dad : Oh, Emily. How are you today? Emily : Fine. Dad : Good. And how was school today? Emily : Really fun. Dad : Good. And what did you do? Emily : We made things. Dad : Like what types of things did you make? Emily : We made books. Dad : You made books! Okay. And what else? Emily : We . . . we made paper kangaroos. Dad : You made paper kangaroos? Okay, and what did you need to make your paper kangaroos? What kind of supplies did you need? Emily : We used crayons, papers, glue, and we had to follow directions. Dad : Well good. And what did you do after school? Emily : We went home, played games. Dad : And did . . . Mom said you went to the junior high school. Emily : I rode my bike in the tennis court. Dad : Did you go by yourself? Emily : I went with the whole family, and we went with Nathan, Sara, Racheal. Dad : You went with your cousins. Emily : And my mom. Dad : Well, that's great. Well, let's get ready for dinner. Emily : Okay.

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Carl : Hi. My name's Carl. Nice to meet you. Pancho : Nice to meet you, too. My name is Francisco. Carl : What? Pancho : Francisco, but all my friends and family back in Peru call me Pancho. Carl : Okay, Pancho. So, tell me about your family? Pancho : Well, I have seven brothers and six sisters. Carl : Wow. That is a big family. So are you the oldest, Pancho? Pancho : No. I'm the second oldest in my family. Carl : So, what do your parents do? Pancho : My father is a taxi driver in Lima, Peru. It's a hard job, but he works hard to support the family. Carl : How about your mother? Pancho : She helps run a small family store with some of my older brothers and sisters. Carl : What kind of store? Pancho : We mainly sell food, like bread, eggs, soft drinks, rice, sugar, and cookies.Things that people buy every day.

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Girl : He's here. Bye Dad. Dad : Wait, wait, wait . . . Where are you going? Girl : Dad. I've already told mom. I'm going out tonight. Dad : Who with? You mean you're going on a date? Girl : Yeah. Mom met Dirk yesterday. [ Dirk!? ] He's sooo cool . We're going on a double-date with Cindy and Evan. Dad : Dirk. Girl : I have to go. Dad : Wait, wait. I want to meet this guy. Girl : He's waiting for me. Dad : Well, so what are you going to do tonight? Going to the library? Girl : Dad! We're going out to eat, and then we're going to catch a movie. Dad : What movie and what is it rated? Girl : It's a science fiction thriller called . . . well, I don't know what it is called, but it's rated PG . Dad : And where's the movie showing? Girl : Down at the Campus Plaza Movie Theater. Dad : Hey, I was thinking about seeing a movie down there tonight, too. Girl : Ah, Dad. Dad : Hey, Let me meet that guy. [ Father looks out the living room window . . . Hey, that guy has a moustache! Girl : Dad. That's not Dirk. That's his older brother. He's taking us there! Can I go now? Dad : Well . . . Girl : Mom said I could, and mom knows his parents. Dad : Well . . . Girl : Dad.

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Dad : Okay, but be home by 8:00. Girl : Eight!? The movie doesn't start until 7:30. Come on , Dad. Dad : Okay. Be back by 11:00. Girl : Love you, Dad. Dad : Love you, too. Girl : Bye. Dad :Bye.

Key Vocabulary

cool (adjective) : someone who is good-looking or attractive - She thinks the guy is really cool , but she doesn't know him like I do.

PG (noun) : parental guidance - The movie is rated PG , so I think we should watch it before we take the kids to see it.

come on (phrasal verb) : used to express that something said is unreasonable - Come on , Mom. You can't expect me clean up my room before I go out tonight, can you? .

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Man : Let me see now. Which train do I need to get on? Woman : Excuse me. Do you need any help? Man : Yes, I want to go to Tokyo Tower, but I'm really lost. This is my first visit to Japan, so I have no idea on how to ride the trains. Woman : First, you need to buy a ticket to your destination . [Um-HUH] From here, it's a hundred and thirty yen. Man : A hundred thirty yen. Okay. Woman : Then, get on the Hibiya Subway Line at platform number 4. Man : Number 4, alright. Oh, and how often do the trains come around this time of day? Woman : Usually, they come about every six minutes or so. Man : Alright. And where do I get off the train. Woman : Get off at Kamiyacho Station, three stops from here. The sign at the station is written in English, so you'll be able to read it. Man : Three stops. Got it. Thanks for your help. Woman : No problem. Good luck. Key Vocabulary

destination ( noun ): the place to which you are going - It took four hours to arrive at our destination .

platform ( noun ): a raised area where you can get on and off a train - Please meet me on the platform 15 minutes before the train is scheduled to leave.

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Disc Jockey : "Ah, nothing like good old rhythm and blues to soothe the soul this late Wednesday night. This is Harry Williams, and I'll be with you throughout the night here on KQ1150. Oh, and don't forget that I'll be giving away tickets on the hour from now until sunupfor those of you who can identify thistune : [ jazz music ] Call me at 693-3019 and be the seventh caller. And if you can tell me the name of that piece and the year it was recorded, you'll enjoy the tunes of one of the best bands ever a week from this Saturday night downtown at the Silver Palace. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy listening to KQ1150."

Key Vocabulary

soothe ( verb ): to relax or calm - You should trying listening to classical music to soothe your nerves. It works for me.

sunup ( noun ): sunrise or the point where the sun comes up in the morning - We'll leave tomorrow before sunup , so please be ready.

identify ( verb ): to name - Greg can identify the names of almost all the constellations in the sky.

tune ( noun ): usually, a song or musical number - This radio station plays some really good tunes .

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Server : Hi. Welcome to Joe's Hamburger Restaurant. [ Hi ] Home of the one-pound superdeluxe hot and spicy cheeseburger. Will this be for here or to go ? Customer : Uh, to go. Server : Okay. What would you like today? Would you like to try the one-pound super hot and spicy cheeseburger? Customer : Uh. I don't think so. I'd probably have heartburn for a week after downing that monster. Server : Well. It's our house special this week, and it comes with fries, and a large specialty drink called "Everything-but-the-kitchen-sink." Customer : A what? "Everything-but-the-kitchen-sink"? What in the world is that? Server : Well, it's a little mix of everything in a large cup: Pepsi, Sprite, Fanta Orange, and lemonade with crushed ice and a scoop of ice cream. Customer : Ah, that sounds disgusting. Server : Hey, it'll grow on you . Customer : Nay, I think I'll just order a hamburger with some mustard and lettuce and a glass of water. Server : Boring. Hey. Would you care for anything else like a side order of amazing cheesy onion rings? Customer : No thank you. Onion rings usually don't agree with me . Server : Hmm. Okay. Your total comes to ten ninety ( $10.90 ). Customer : Ten ninety? For just a hamburger?! You've got to be kidding Server : Well, the one-pound super deluxe hamburger is nine dollars. Customer : Hey, I didn't order a one-pound burger. I just wanted a simple burger. That's all. Server : Well, sir. Joe's Hamburger Restaurant only serves one-pound burgers.[ Man! ] The one-pound super hot and spicy, the one-pound barbecue burger, the one-pound bacon cheese burger, the onepound . . . Customer : No, no. Those are all huge.

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Server : Well, sir. If you really want something smaller [ Yeah ], you should order from the kids' menu: The half-pound super hot and spicy burger, the half-pound barbecue burger, the half-pound bacon cheese burger, the half-pound . . . Customer : No. Those are still giant burgers. Server : Well, in these parts, we are hearty eaters . Customer : Okay, but you said my total was ten ninety, but the burger only comes to ten bucks. What about the other ninety cents? Server : Well, sir. We only serve natural spring water from yonder hills, and . . . Customer : Okay, okay. I'll take the giant burger and a bottle of your spring water. The sandwich should feed me for a week.

Key Vocabulary

deluxe (adjective) : of higher quality than similar products - She ordered a deluxe shake from the menu.

to go : takeout - We ordered the food to go because we didn't have time to sit down and eat.

down something (verb) : eat quickly - No one could believe that the woman downed fifteen hotdogs in twelve minutes.

grow on someone (verb) : develop a liking for someone or something over time - Eating raw fish is something that will grow on you if you eat it enough.

not agree with someone (verb) : become sick from something you eat - Boy, I feel really sick. That soup didn't agree with me at all, and I feel like I'm going to throw up.

hearty eater (noun) : someone who enjoys eating a lot - That baby is a real hearty eater and eats constantly.

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Father : Hi Michael. Happy Birthday!How old are you today? Son : Seven. Father : Alright. Well, let's sing Happy Birthday: Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Michael, Happy Birthday to you. Father : Alright. So what should we do first? Son : How about cake and ice cream? Father : Okay. Well, uh let . . . let's light the candles. Okay, and make a wish! Don't . .. don't tell me. Son : Don't tell you? Father : Yeah, don't tell me. Okay, and go ahead and blow out the candles. Okay, let's cut the cake, and then we can have cake and ice cream. And what do you want to do after the cake and ice cream? Son : Play freeze tag . Father : Now, how do you play tag? Son : Um . . . one person is it, and the person who is it tries to tag everyone [Alright.And then . . . ] before I tag someone and then, another person tags me. Father : Oh, wow. And whose coming over later today for your birthday? Son : Well, everyone. Uh, my cousins, all my aunts and grandmas, grandpas. Father : Alright. Well, Happy Birthday, Michael. Key Vocabulary

freeze (verb) : become cold to the point of changing water to ice - It was so cold out last night that I thought I was going to freeze to death.

tag (verb) : touch a player, usually as part of a game - I tried to get away during the game at the park, but she tagged me on the back, so I was it.

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Waiter : Hi. Welcome to Heavenly Pies. May I take your order?

Man : Uh . . . yes. I'd like the chicken fried steak. Waiter : Okay. Would you like fries, bread, or rice with your meal ? Man : Umm. I'll take the rice? Waiter : Would you care for anything to drink? Man : Yeah. I'll take a medium orange juice. Waiter : I'm sorry. We only have large or small. Man : Well, in that case, uh, I'll have a small one. Waiter : Okay. A small juice. And what kind of dressing would you like with your salad. It comes with the fried steak. Man : What dressings do you have? Waiter : We have French, Italian, blue cheese, and ranch. Man : Oh! Ranch, please. Waiter : Would you like anything else? Man : Well, I'd like to see your pie menu. That's the main reason why I like to dinehere. Waiter : Oh, I'm so sorry, but we aren't serving pies today. Man : Huh? I thought this was Heavenly Pies Restaurant. Waiter : Well, it usually is, but, Dave, our baker, slipped in the kitchen on a banana two days ago, and hurt his leg. [ Oh ] He'll be out for at least two weeks. In the meantime, we're serving ice cream sundaes instead. Sorry. Man : Wow. I'm sorry to hear that. Well in that case, I'll have an ice cream sundae. Woman : I'll be back with your order in a few minutes Key Vocabulary meal (noun) : a portion of food served and eaten at one time - This restaurant serves delicious meals at a reasonable price. care for (verb) : informal, to want or wish for something - Would you care for another drink? dine (verb) : to eat dinner - How about dining at my house tonight? injure (verb) : to cause physical damage to someone - He injured his back when he tried to lift those heavy boxes.

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Hotel Clerk : Hello. Sunnyside Inn. May I help you? Man : Yes, I'd like to reserve a room for two on the 21st of March. Hotel Clerk : Okay. Let me check our computer here for a moment.The 21st of May, right? Man : No. March, not May. Hotel Clerk : Oh, sorry. Let me see here. Hmmm. Man : Are you all booked that night? Hotel Clerk : Well, we have one suite available, complete with a kitchenette and a sauna bath. And the view of the city is great, too. Man : How much is that? Hotel Clerk : It's only $200 dollars, plus a 10% room tax. Man : Oh, that's a little too expensive for me. Do you have a cheaper room available either on the 20th or the 22nd? Hotel Clerk : Well, would you like a smoking or a non-smoking room? Man : Non-smoking, please. Hotel Clerk : Okay, we do have a few rooms available on the 20th; we're full on the 22nd, unless you want a smoking room. Man : Well, how much is the non-smoking room on the 20th? Hotel Clerk : $80 dollars, plus the 10% room tax. Man : Okay, that'll be fine. Hotel Clerk : All right. Could I have your name, please? Man : Yes. Bob Maexner. Hotel Clerk : How do you spell your last name, Mr. Maexner? Man : MAEXNER. Hotel Clerk : Okay, Mr. Maexner, we look forward to seeing you on March 20th. Man : Okay. Goodbye. Key Vocabulary suite (noun) : a group of connected rooms at a hotel - I decided to reserve a suite for our honeymoon. kitchenette (noun) : a very small kitchen - My first apartment was very small and only had a kitchenette .

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Customs Officer : Next. Uh, your passport please. Woman : Okay. Customs Officer : Uh, what is the purpose of your visit? Woman : I'm here to attend a teaching convention for the first part of my trip, and then I plan on touring the capital for a few days. Customs Officer : And where will you be staying? Woman : I'll be staying in a room at a hotel downtown for the entire week. Customs Officer : And uh, what do you have in your luggage ? Woman : Uh, well, just, just my personal belongings um, . . . clothes, a few books, and a CD player. Customs Officer : Okay. Uh, please open your bag. Woman : Sure. Customs Officer : Okay . . . Everything's fine. [Great]. Uh, by the way, is this your first visit to the country? Woman : Well, yes and no. Actually, I was born here when my parents were working in the capital many years ago, but this is my first trip back since then. Customs Officer : Well, enjoy your trip. Woman : Thanks. Key Vocabulary

attend (verb) : to be at or go to - I'm planning on attending a language class before I go to China.

luggage (noun) : bags used during traveling to carry your things - You are only allowed two pieces of luggage on this flight.

book (verb) : to make arrangements in advance - You ought to book a room at least a month in advance.

belongings (noun) : your personal property or possessions - Be sure to collect your belongings before you leave the plane.

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Store Announcement: "Hello Shoppers. We have a lost boy named Marshall who was found in the sporting goods section of our store, and he's looking for his mom. He's five years old, and he's wearing a blue and white sweat shirt, tan pants, and a black and white baseballcap . You can find him at the check-out counter at the main exit. Thank you."

Key Vocabulary

section (noun) : area - You'll find the orange juice in the drink section over there.

tan (adjective) : a light brown - My brother is the man wearing the tan shirt.

cap (noun) : a tight-fitting hat often used in sports by baseball players - Joshua wore his baseball cap to keep the sun out of his eyes during the game.

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Doug : Uh, hi there Diane. Nah, okay. Uh . . . Hi, what's up, Di? Okay, here we go. . . [ doorbell ringing ] Diane : Uh, hi. It's David, right? Doug : No, Doug. Remember? We met at Gary's party last Friday night. Diane : Oh, yeah. Now I remember. You were standing all alone . . . uh, oh, I . . . I mean . . . I mean, you . . . you know. We started talking about school and stuff. [Yeah, yeah. ]. Uh, how did you know I lived here? Doug : Well, I just live around the corner, and I asked Gary if he knew how I could contact you, and . . . Diane : And? Doug : Well, I was just wondering if you'd like to go out this Thursday night. [Oh.].Well, there's this real great movie playing downtown at the theater, [ Uh . . . ] and I thought . . . Well . . . well, we can't use my car 'cause I was in an accident with this wild man driving this BMW, so I've already checked the bus schedule, and . .. Diane : Uh-hem [ Well ], Well, David [ No Doug! Remember? ] Oh yeah. Doug.I'm sorry, but I have to work that evening. Doug : Oh really? Well, I thought you said before that you quit your job. Diane : Well, I did, but I found a new one. Doug : Uh, well, how about this Friday night? We could have dinner and then see that movie. Diane : A movie? How boring! Doug : Well, well, uh, well. A movie? Yeah, for . . . forget a movie. Diane : Anyway, I'm afraid I have to cook dinner for my family, and . . . Doug : Hey, I love to cook. We could whip something up together! I mean, it would be great! Diane : I don't think that's a good idea. It's just a family occasion and . . . Doug : Well, hey, are you free this Saturday night? I have two tickets to the football game, and I thought

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Diane : Sure. I'd love to go. [ Okay! ] I've wanted to see a game all year. [ Yeah!] My roommate will be so surprised when she finds out I have a ticket for her, and . . . Doug : Well, but . . . Diane : Oh [ car screeching . . . ] . . . and here's my brother! He's a defensivelineman on the team. Doug : Well, he doesn't look too happy. Diane : Ah, he's a teddy bear, but hasn't been the same since someone ran into his BMW. Doug : Oh. Let me guess. Red, right? Diane : Right. [ Oh ] And, it's just that he's a little protective of me since I am his baby sister. Doug : Hey, well, it's been really nice talking to you, but I have to run. Hey. Here are the tickets. Have a great time and, by the way, can I go out your back door?

Key Vocabulary

whip something up (verb) : prepare quickly - Let's whip something up for tonight's party. A few games and some snacks should be fine.

lineman (noun) : a player in the front line of a team One of the lineman from their team is very big, but quick, on the field.

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Teacher : Oh, hi. What was your name again. I can't keep straight all the students' names this being the second day of school. Student : It's okay. I have a hard time remembering names myself. Teacher : How, uh, Karen, right? Student : No, it's Nancy. My mom's name is Karen. Teacher : Nancy. Okay. I think I heard you were from England. Student : Well, I was born there, but my parents are American. I grew up in France. Teacher : Oh, a world traveller! Student : But then we moved here when I was nine. Teacher : So, what does your father do now? Student : Well, he's a college professor, and he is in Scotland at the moment. Teacher : How interesting. What does he teach? Student : Oh, I haven't a clue. Nah, just joking. He teaches chemistry. Teacher : Oh, chemistry, and uh, what about your mother? Student : She works full time at home. Teacher : Oh, and what, does she have her own business or something? Student : Nah , she takes care of me. Teacher : Well, being a homemaker can be a real hard, but rewarding job. Student : I think so too. Key Vocabulary

nah : no (informal) Do you want to come to the party? Nah . I have other plans that evening.

keep straight (verb) : remember clearly - You need to keep the facts straight if you want to pass the test.

homemaker (noun) : housewife - His wife is a homemaker .

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Heather : Hey. John. This looks a great party. [ Yeah! ] Thanks for inviting me. John : No problem. Glad you could make it. Hey. Have you met any of the famous guests so far? Heather : Uh, no. Who exactly ? John : Well, there is Gregorio Zuttlemisterburger . . . [ Who? ]. Ah.They call him the "Grip" for short. Heather : Who in the world is he? John : You've never heard of him? [ No .] He's the world famous snake trainer . . .He's never met a snake he couldn't train to dance and hiss at the same time. Heather : Seriously? Where is he? John : Uh, he's the tall guy over there in the purple jacket and green pants. He probably has a snake or two with him tonight. Heather : Huh? John : And then there is Georgina, the Great. Heather : Georgina . . . and great for what? John : Are you serious? You've never heard of her? She is the world's greatest arm wrestler. I mean, World champion. She's the petite woman next to the fireplace with the bright yellow dress and the tennis shoes. Heather : I thought you said famous people . . . like, like people we all know. John : And, and there is Brad Pitt . . . Heather : Now, there's someone I recognize . . . John : . . . the captain of the national Yo-Yo team [ What? ]. Yeah. He's the short,stocky man sitting at the table wearing the black and red checkered shirt. I'm sure he'd do a few tricks for you if you asked. Heather : Uh, no thank you. I think I've had enough entertainment for one evening. John : Okay Key Vocabulary

exactly (adverb) : specifically - So, where do you live exactly in the city?

famous (adjective) : well known by many people - My sister is very famous because of her popular novels.

petite (adjective) : thin, slender (used for women) - My sister is very petite , so a extra small shirt would suit her best.

guests (noun) : a person invited to a party, a meal, or some special occasion - We need to prepare enough food for thirty guests who will be attending the event.

stocky (adjective) : solidly built and often strong, but not tall - The stocky man over by the table is the host of the party.

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Jori : Hi Dave. [ Hi ] Happy to see you could make it . Come on in. Dave : Wow. Looks like the party is infull swing . Jori : Yeah. And they're eating me out of house and home . Oh, I'd like you to meet my sister, Carol. She's visiting for the weekend. Dave : Oh. Which one is she? Jori : She's sitting on the sofa over there. Dave : You mean the woman wearing the red sweater with the long black hair? Jori : Yeah. That's right. Let me introduce you to her. I just know you two will hit it off .You're both so outgoing and adventurous . Dave : Uh, and who's the man sitting next to her? Uh, the man with the suit jacket andflashy green tie? Jori : Oh, that's Bob, my karate teacher. Dave : Karate teacher! I never knew you were into karate. Jori : Yeah, I started about two months ago. Come on. I'd like you to meet them. Key Vocabulary
good to see you could make it : happy to see you could come - It's really good to see you could make it . full swing ( idiom ): at its high point - The party really got into full swing around midnight. eat someone out of house and home ( idiom ): they're eating all of my food - My teenagers have huge appetites and are eating me out of house and home . hit it off ( idiom ): get along well - My roommate and I hit it off from the very first day we moved in. flashy ( adjective ): brightly colored or unusually decorated beyond normal standards - She tends to wear flashy ski wear during the winter season. adventurous ( adjective ): willingness to try new things - If I were more adventurous, I think I would try mountain climbing. outgoing ( adjective ): very friendly and sociable - He is very outgoing and always makes newcomers feel comfortable at a party.

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Little Girl : Hello. Caller : He, he.., hello? Uh, yeah.Is . . . uh . . . your dad home? Little Girl : Just a minute please. Older Sister : Hello. Caller : Uh . . . yeah . . . uh hello?Yeah, um . . . is . . . uh . . . Nick home please? Older Sister : Oh, he can't come to the phone right now. Caller : Okay, well, um, yeah, I need to talk to your dad. Um, yeah, could you . . .um . . . take a message? Older Sister : Yeah. Caller : Yeah. This is . . . my name's Nick Johnson. And if . . . Older Sister : The phone number? Caller : Yeah if you could tell him. Yeah, the phone number is 589 [ Uh- huh ] 7248. Older Sister : 589-7248? Caller : Yeah, right and if you could tell him to call me tonight between 7:00 and 8:30? Older Sister : Okay. Caller : Alright, and uh. Now, I think . . . are you his daughter? Older Sister : Yeah. Caller : Yeah, now what's your name? Older Sister : I . . . I'm not supposed to tell that. Caller : Ah, that's really smart. Alright, well just tell him I called. Older Sister : (O)kay. Caller : Okay, bye. Older Sister : Bye.

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Scott : Dave. I'm going to thesupermarket to pick up food and drink for Saturday's picnic later. Any suggestions? Dave : Well, everyone has beentalking about having a barbecue down by the river, so why don't you pick up some hamburger and hot dogs? Scott : Okay, but how much hamburger meat are we going to need? And hot dogs too? Dave : Uh, I don't know. How about three pounds of hamburger and a couple packages of hot dogs? Scott : Oh, that's not going to be enough. Do you remember the last picnic we went on? Your roommate, Jim, ate about ten hamburgers by himself! Dave : You're right. Let's see. I'd better write this down. Uh, let's see about nine pounds of hamburger meat and, uh . . . , seven packages of hot dogs. Scott : And you better pick up some chicken for those who don't like hamburger or hot dogs. Dave : Okay. How about five or six bags of potato chips? Scott : Humm. Better make that eight or so. Dave : Alright. Oh, and we're gonna [ going to ] need some hamburger and hot dog buns. How about five packages a piece? I think that sounds about right. Scott : Yeah, you better pick up some mustard, catchup, and mayonnaise too. Dave : Okay. What else? Uh, we're gonna [ going to ] need some soft drinks. How about ten of those big 2-liter bottles? Scott : Sounds fine, but be sure to buy a variety of drinks. Dave : Okay. And what about dessert? Scott : Well, maybe we could ask Kathy to make a few cherry pies like she did last time. Dave : Well, I wouldn't mind that, but you know, she's been very busy working two jobs, so I'd hate to ask her, [ Oh, hum . . . ] and uh . . . Hey, why don't you whip upsome of your oatmeal cookies? [ Well . . . ] Hey, you could even ask, uh . . . , what's her name . . . yeah that new girl, Susan, the one that moved in across the street! [Well . . . ] I bet she'd be willing to help you! [ I don't know . . . ] She's a real knockout ! Scott : Nah , I don't think I could ask her . . .[ Ahh! ] I don't know her phone number, plus . . .

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[ Door bell rings . . . ] Dave : Hey, you don't need to. She's at the door! Scott : What do you mean? Dave : Well, I thought you two would hit it off , so I called her up saying I was you, and I invited her over to watch a movie. Scott : You did what??? Dave : Wait, wait, wait . . . [ uhhhhh . . . ] Key Vocabulary
supermarket (noun) : a place where you buy

- I told her that she better make enough food for 20 people, or some of the guests won't be happy or satisfied.
whip up (phrasal verb) : prepare quickly

food or other household goods, also grocery store - She went to the supermarket to buy food for dinner.
talk about (phrasal verb) : discuss

- There's no time to fix a big dinner, so I'll just have to whip up a simple salad.
bet (verb) : strongly believe or have faith in

- Let's get together after class to talk about tonight's party.

pound (noun) : a common measure of weight in

- This cake has a nice flavor. I bet she added some cinnamon to the recipe.
knockout (noun) : a very attractive or beautiful

the US, also 16 ounces - The turkey weighs over 25 pounds , so there should be enough to feed all our guests.
package (noun) : a container often used for

woman - Hey, you'll love her roommate. She's a real knockout , and she isn't dating anyone.
nah : informal for "no"

food - He said he bought three packages of cookies to feed the kids an afternoon snack.
you better (modal of advice) : informal for "you

- Nah , I don't want to go out to eat. Let's just eat something easy at home.
hit it off (phrasal verb) : get along well

had better" or "you'd better" and is generally used when there could be a negative consequence or result if the advice isn't followed

- I thought they would hit it off and go on another date, but it turns out that they didn't have much in common.

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Girl : Dad, will you read to me? Dad : Uh, let me finish the newspaper first? Girl : You've been saying that forever! Dad : Well, how about reading the business section of the newspaper together? Girl : That's boring . Let's read this book. It's about a bear and cat that becomes friends. [ Okay ] And these books too. Dad : Whoa . I thought you said one book. There must be ten here. Girl : My teacher, Mrs. Green, says you have to read to me every night, and the newspaper doesn't count . And let's eat some popcorn and cookies while we're reading Dad : Well, it's bedtime right now. So, okay, here we go. Once upon a time in a deep, dark forest, lived a brown bear . . . Key Vocabulary

section (noun) : a separate part of a book or newspaper - Be sure to read this section of the book carefully. It will help you understand the story better.

boring (adjective) : not interesting - Many advertisers use almost any means to persuade customers to buy their products.

whoa : used to show surprise - Whoa ! You can read really well. That's great!

count (verb) : be included, allowed, or accepted - You are supposed to read 300 pages before the end of the school year, but remember that comic books don't count . You have to read story books.

bedtime (noun) : the time when you normally go to bed - I often read a book or watch TV before bedtime .

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Store Employee : Hi. May I help you? Customer : Yeah. I'd like to rent these movies. Store Employee : Ah. Romance movies? Customer : Well. They're for my daughter Store Employee : Right. It's okay.Well, do you have your membership card? Customer : No I don't. Uh, do I need one to rent videos here? Store Employee : Yes, but it's free. [ Oh, okay. ] It's just a card we use to help uskeep track of video rentals. So, please fill out this membership form. Customer : Okay, and how much are movie rentals anyway ? Store Employee : Well, new releases are $3.50 ( Okay ), and all other movies are two dollars ( Uh-huh ), and you can rent up to six movies at a time. [ Okay. ] We also have a five buck special [ Oh. ] where you can rent any five movies for $5.00 ( Hum ), but this does not include new releases. Customer : Oh, well, I'll just take these tonight. Store Employee : Okay, let's see . . . your total comes to seven dollars and fifty cents. Customer : And when do I need to return them? Store Employee : They have to be returned on Thursday by ten o'clock pm Customer : Okay. Store Employee : And there is an overdue late fee equal to the rental fee of the movie, so be sure to return them on time. Store Employee : And enjoy your romance movies. Customer : Okay. Thanks.

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Key Vocabulary

issue (verb) : provide or give something usually to members of a group - This video only cost me a buck to rent for three days.

keep track of (phrasal verb) : watch and pay careful attention to what is happening - We need to keep track of the video we have checked out. Otherwise, we might have to pay a late fee.

anyway (adverb) : used to say you will do something regardless of something else - I know the DVD is expensive, but I'm going to buy it anyway .

release (noun) : a new movie or CD that has just been available for purchase - This is a new release , so it will cost a little more to rent.

buck (noun) : informal for one dollar - This video only cost me a buck to rent for three days.

come to (verb) : add up to a certain money total - Renting the two videos comes to $5.00 plus tax.

overdue ( adjective ): late, not returned as expected - This video is overdue now, and I should have returned it yesterday.

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Man : Hi young lady. How may I help you? Girl : Well, . . . yeah. I'm looking for a Father's Day gift. Man : Okay. How about getting your father a new wallet? Girl : Hmm. How much is that wallet? Man : Huh . . . which one? Girl : The black one. Man : Oh. It's only $40.95. Girl : Huh? That's too expensive for me. Do you have a cheaper one? Man : Hmm. How about this brown leather one? Girl : Umm. . . I don't think my father will like the design on the outside, and it doesn't have a place to put pictures. How much is it anyway? Man : It's $25.99. Girl : Humm. I don't have that much money. Man : Okay. How much money do you have to spend? Girl : I'm not sure [money falling on the table]. Probably about ten dollars or so. I've been helping my mom around the house for the past week to earn some money. This is all I have. Man : Hmm. How about this tie? Girl : That's real pretty, but the price tag says $13.99, and I know I don't have that much money. Man : Well, let's just say the tie went on sale. How about $5.00. What do you say? Girl : Oh, thanks. I'll take it.

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Man : So, what do you want to do tomorrow? Woman : Well, let's look at this city guide here. [ Okay ] Uh, here's something interesting. [Oh! ]Why don't we first visit the art museum in the morning? Man : Okay. I like that idea. And where do you want to eat lunch? Woman : How about going to an Indian restaurant? [ Humm ] The guide recommends one downtown a few blocks from the museum. Man : Now that sounds great. After that, what do you think about visiting the zoo? [ Oh . . umm . . well . . . ] Well, it says here that there are some very unique animals not found anywhere else. Woman : Well, to tell you the truth , I'm not really interested in going there. [Really? ]. Yeah. Why don't we go shopping instead? There are supposed to be some really nice places to pick up souvenirs . Man : Nah, I don't think that's a good idea. We only have few travelers checks left, and I only have fifty dollars left in cash. Woman : No problem. We can use YOUR credit card to pay for MY new clothes. Man : Oh, no. I remember the last time you used MY credit card for YOUR purchases. Woman : Oh well. Let's take the subway down to the seashore and walk along the beach. Man : Now that sounds like a wonderful plan. Key Vocabulary

to tell (you) the truth (phrase) : to be honest - To tell you the truth , I'm a little afraid to try new foods.

recommend (verb) : to suggest something would be good or suitable for a particular purpose or to suggest some action - I recommend you visit the palace during your visit.

pick up (verb) : obtain or get - I picked up this doll during my last trip to China.

blocks (noun) : the distance and area between roads or streets - Walk down this road three blocks , and you'll see the science museum on the righthand side of the street.

souvenir (verb) : something you give or receive to help you remember a visit to another place - My children expect souvenirs when I return from a trip overseas.

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Son : Dad! Father : Yeah, Micky. Son : Can I have a really good snack? Father : Uh, I don't know. I thinks it's . .. uh . . . what time's it? I think it's going on dinner. Son : Uh, it's three thirty. Father : Three thirty. Uh . . . We'd better wait. [ Why, Dad? ] Well, what kind of snack do you want? Son : Candy? Father : No, candy is out . Oh, how about some broccoli? [ No! ] Uh, carrots? [ No! ] Well, what else can you suggest? Son : Candy. Father : Candy. No, I don't think . . . I think You'd better wait. Son : A sandwich? A spinach sandwich? Father : Spinach sandwich? Spinach sandwich! When did you start liking spinach? Son : Uh, today. Father : Well, what about a small sandwich? [ Okay ] Okay, I'll whip it up in a minute.Play with your toys while you're waiting for it.
Key Vocabulary snack (noun) : an informal light meal - My wife often gives the kids a snack right when they come home from school. go on (phrasal verb) : getting near to, almost - It's going on 6:00 pm, so we'd better start dinner before the guests arrive. out (adjective) : not acceptable or possible - Going to the movie is out tonight. We whip up (phrasal verb) : prepare or cook food quickly - We don't have much time for dinner, so I'll whip up something right away. spinach (noun) : a dark green leafy vegetable - Some kids don't like the taste of spinach . don't have enough money to pay for the tickets.

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Carla : So, how are things going, Steve? Steve : Well, to be honest Carla, I was feeling great on Saturday, but I started to feel sick Sunday afternoon. I thought I'd get better, but I feel worse than before. And I'm really worried because I'm scheduled to give a presentation at work on Friday, so I have to be better by then. Carla : Well, what seems to be the problem? Steve : Well, I thought I had the flu , but the doctor said it was just a bad cold. He gave me some cold medicine to take care of my stuffy nose and fever. I'm supposedto take the medicine three times a day after eating, but it doesn't seem to help. He also told me to stay off my feet for a day or so, but I'm so busy these days. Carla : Listen, forget about that medicine! I have just the thing to get rid of bad colds.You see, my mom is really into herbal medicine. Steve : Oh, no thanks. Carla : Ah, come on ! Give it a try. You just take some of my mom's herbal tea and drink it four times a day. Believe me. You'll be up and dancing around in no time. Steve : Dancing around in no time, right? Well, I guess. Nothing else seems to be doing the job. Carla : Great. I'll come by your place at 7:30. See you then.
Key Vocabulary flu (noun) : informal for influenza, like a very bad cold with chills and fever - Sometimes, doctors have to be very discreet when talking with their family about patients. stuffy (adjective) : closed or blocked - I have a really stuffy nose and can't breathe very well. be supposed to (verb) : expected to do something - She was supposed to stay in bed and rest, but she went to work instead. seem (verb) : appear - My dad didn't seem very sick this morning, but he got worse during the rest of the day. stay off your feet (idiom) : put into action - If you want to get better, you have to stay off your feet for a few days. get rid of (phrasal verb) : do away with, eliminate - Try my garlic soup. It'll help get rid of your bad stuffy nose. come on : said to encourage someone to do something - Come on ! Call and make an appointment to see the doctor. You're not going to get better on your own.

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Stephanie : Hi, this is Stephanie. I can't answer the phone right now. I'm away, but feel free to call, leave a message, or text. Alright. Bye. Ronald : Uh, hello, uh yeah. Hi, Stephanie, or Steffi. Uh, I can't do this? Oh yeah. Uh. Yes, Stephanie, my name is Ronald, but my friends call me Ron. My parents call me, well, forget about that. Uh, I'moriginally from Canada, but I grew in Texas. I'm 24 years old, and uh, I graduatedfrom high school about five years ago, and I'm the manager of an exotic pet shop.We carry all kinds of birds, and snakes, and spiders, and fish. We even have one snake that is about four meters long, but I keep him at home. And oh, yeah. Um, myhobbies . I fish, hunt, and ride horses in my free time. My favorite foods are beef, beef, and beef. I don't eat many vegetables, except potatoes with my beef. And, oh yeah, I sometimes eat apples and beef sometimes. I have two brothers. Both of them live with me because they don't have jobs, and my mom lives with me, and I have three dogs: Brutus, Charlie, and Samantha. Oh, and one more thing. This might seem strange , but I enjoy reading poetry. So, that's about it. I hope to hear from you. You can call me if you want. The number is 789-1350. Yeah, uh, right. Catch later, alligator. Oh, oh, that's so stupid. Uh, oh, Good-bye. Key Vocabulary

originally (adverb) : in the beginning - I originally wanted to study computer science, but I switched to engineering.

graduate (verb) : finish or complete - My sister is going to graduate in December, and I want to graduate in the spring.

exotic (adjective) : unusual and interesting often used when talking about different places and countries - Some students are from very exotic cultures.

carry (verb) : have something for sale - Excuse me. Do you carry iPads or iPhones?

hobby (noun) : an activity people like to do for fun or pleasure in their free time - His favorite hobby is playing tennis, but he isn't very good at it.

strange (adjective) : unusual or different - That man is a little strange , but he is very kind.

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Joshua : Dad. Allowance day.Can I have my allowance? Father : Oh. I forgot about that. Joshua : You ALWAYS forget. Father : I guess I do. How much do I owe you? Joshua : Just $13. Father : Thirteen dollars!? Why do I owe you that much? Just seems like I paid you the other day. Joshua : No. You forget every Saturday, and it has been piling up. Father : Well, I'm not sure if I have that much. Joshua : Go to the bank. You have lots of money. Father : Lots of money, uh? Uh, well, I think the bank is closed. Joshua : Then, what about your secret money jar under your bed? Father : Oh, I guess I could do that. So, what are you going to do with the money? Joshua : I'm going to put some in savings, give some to the poor people, and use the rest to buy books. Father : Well, that's sounds great, Joshua.

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Hi. My name's Greg, and I'moriginally from Denver, Colorado, but my family moved to Arizona when I was about 3, so I grew up there. I graduated from high school about three years ago, and I am currently attending a university in my city. I'm a junior , and I am majoring in economics with a minor in Spanish. I also work part time as a cashier at agrocery store . Life is really busy, but I enjoy hiking, reading, andhanging out with friends in my free time. When I graduate, I want to work for a company in this area. Key Vocabulary

originally (adverb) : in the beginning, in the first place - My mom is originally from a small town in Texas.

currently (adverb) : now, at this time - She is currently working as a server at a restaurant.

attend (verb) : go to - I want to attend a school near my family.

junior (noun) : third-year student - He is only a junior , so he has another year to graduate.

major in (verb) : have as one's main field of study - I'm thinking about majoring in restaurant and hotel management.

cashier (noun) : a person who receives and pays out money at a store - Kathy found a job as a cashier at a restaurant.

grocery store (noun) : supermarket - My brother works full time as the manager of a grocery store .

hang out (phrasal verb) : spend time with, socialize - We usually hang out with friends after school.

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Man : Uh, where am I? Tsk, hum . . . Woman : Excuse me. Do you need any help? Man : Nah , I . . . I'm just looking . . . well . . . [ Okay . . . ] Uh, well, actually . . .yeah. Um . . . I want to go to the science museum, but I've been lost for the past few hours, and I can't make heads or tails of these ticket machines. Woman : Ah, well, just press this button. [ Oh, yeah ] And from here, it's a dollar fifty. Man : Okay. Woman : Then, get on the train at platform number 4. Man : Alright. Oh, and how often do the trains come around this time of day? Woman : Usually, they come about every six minutes. Man : Okay. And where do I get off the train? Woman : Get off at State Street Station, three stops from here. Man : Okay. I got it . Thanks for your help. Woman : No problem . Good luck. Key Vocabulary

nah : informal for no - Nah . I don't want to go, but thanks for asking.

not make heads or tails of ( idiom ): not be able to understand something at all - I can't make heads or tails of this train map.

platform ( noun ): the place next to the railroad tracks where you wait for a train - Please meet me on the platform 15 minutes before the train is scheduled to leave.

get something ( verb ): understand something - Most of the time, she doesn't get what the teacher says.

no problem : used after someone thanks you for your help, similar to "You're welcome" - A : Thanks for helping me buy a train ticket. - B : No problem .

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Travel Agent : Freedom Travel.How may I help you? Caller : Yes, I'd like to make a flight reservation for the twenty-third of this month. Travel Agent : Okay. What is your destination ? Caller : Well. I'm flying to Helsinki, Finland. Travel Agent : Okay. Let me check what flights are available ?.[ Okay ] And when will you be returning? Caller : Uh, well, I'd like to catch a return flight on the twenty-ninth. Oh, and I'd like the cheapest flight available. Travel Agent : Okay. Let me see. Um, hmm . . . Caller : Yeah? Travel Agent : Well, the price for the flight is almost double the price you would pay if you leave the day before. Caller : Whoo. Let's go with the cheaper flight. By the way, how much is it? Travel Agent : It's only $980. Caller : Alright. Well, let's go with that. Travel Agent : Okay. That's flight 1070 from Salt Lake City to New York, Kennedy Airport, transferring to flight 90 from Kennedy to Helsinki. Caller : And what are the departure and arrival times for each of those flights? Travel Agent : It leaves Salt Lake City at 10:00 AM, arriving in New York at 4:35 PM, then transferring to flight 90 at 5:55 PM, and arriving in Helsinki at 8:30 AM the next day. Caller : Alright. And, uh, I'd like to request a vegetarian meal. Travel Agent : Sure, no problem. And could I have you name please?

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Key Vocabulary

destination (noun) : the place a trip ends - We'll reach our destination by 3:00 PM.

available (adjective) : not busy, ready for use Are there any seats available on the next train?

catch (verb) : get - You can catch a taxi outside of the hotel lobby.

go with (phrasal verb) : choose something - I think I'll go with the budget tour to Hawaii on this trip.

transfer (verb) : change to a different transportation line - You'll need to transfer to a city bus when you arrive at the train station.

departure (noun) : the act of leaving - Passengers should check in two hours before their departure time.

vegetarian (noun) : one who eats little or no meat, fish, or animal products - Although Charles considers himself a vegetarian , he sometimes eats chicken.

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Captain : Hello everyone, this is the captain speaking, and I want to welcome you to Flight 18 bound for Seattle.Our flight time today is 2 hours and 14 minutes, and we will be flying at an average altitude of 29,000 feet . The local time in Seattle is a quarter to twelve (11:45), and the current weather is sunny, but there is a chance of rain later in the day. We will be arriving at Gate 13, and we will beannouncing connecting flights on ourapproach to the Seattle airport. On behalf of Sky Airlines and the crew , I want to wish you an enjoyable stay in the Seattle area or at your final destination . Sit back and enjoy the flight. Key Vocabulary

bound (adjective) : going to or heading for - The plane is bound for London with stops in Atlanta and New York City.

feet (noun) : 12 inches or 0.3 meters - The flight attendant was only few feet a way when I got her attention.

announce (verb) : give information - We need to wait at the gate until they announce our flight.

connecting flight (noun) : when you arrive at the airport, your next plane is there to get on so you can continue your trip - We didn't arrive in time to catch our connecting flight .

crew (noun) : all of the people who work together on a ship, train, or plane - The plane's crew were very friendly and helpful.

destination (noun) : the place you are going to - What is your final destination on this trip?

altitude (noun) : height - This plane flies at an altitude of 31,000 feet..

approach (noun, also a verb) : nearing or coming to - It started to snow very heavily as the airplane started its approach to the airport. - The plane is approaching the airport.

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Ted : So, Susan, do you have anything planned for this Saturday? Susan : Uh, I'm kind of busy. Why do you ask? Ted : Oh, I was wondering if you'd like to get together and do something, like catch a movie or take a walk down by the lake. Susan : I'd love to, but I'm really going to be busy all day on Saturday. Ted : What do you have going on that day? Susan : First, my mom asked me to help clean the house in the morning, and then I have a dentist appointment at 12:30. I can't miss that 'cause I've canceled twice before. Ted : Well, what about after that? Susan : Well, I'm going to be running around all day. After the dentist appointment, I need to meet Julie at 2:00 to help her with her science project that's due on Monday morning at school. Ted : Okay, but are you free after that? Susan : Hardly. then I have to pick up my brother from soccer practice at 4:30, and my mom asked me to cook dinner for the family at 5:30. I feel like a slave sometimes. Then, I have to clean the dishes and finish reading my history assignment. Who knows how long THAT'll take. Ted : Wow, sounds like you're going to have a full day. Hey listen, why don't I come over later in the evening, and we can make some popcorn and watch a movie. Susan : Oh, that'd be great, but our video machine is broken. Ted . Huh. Well, let's just play a game or something. Susan : Sounds good, but give me a call before you come. My mom might try to come up with something else for me to do.

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Tom : Hi. I don't think we've met. My name's Tom. Jenny : Hi, Tom. Nice to meet you. My name is Juanita, but everybody calls me Jenny. Tom : Nice to meet you, Jenny. So, where are you from? Jenny : Well, originally I'm from Argentina, but we moved to the United States when I was about five years old. My parents now live in Chile. That's where they first met. How about you, Tom? Tom : I was born in Fresno, California, and we lived there until I was seven. Then, since my father worked for the military, we moved all over the place. Jenny : Oh yeah? Where are some of the places you've lived? Tom : Mostly, we were overseas. We spent a total of ten years in Korea, Germany, and Okinawa, Japan. We were transferred back to the States three years ago, but I think my parents would have liked to live overseas for at least 20 more years. Jenny : Wow. It sounds like you've had an interesting life. So, what do you do now? Tom : I'm a student at Purdue University. Jenny : Oh really? What are you studying? Tom : I'm majoring in psychology. How about you? What do you do? Jenny : Well, I'm working as a sales representative for Vega Computers downtown. Tom : No kidding! My brother works there too.

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1. A Student Credit Card 2. A Healthy Lifestyle 3. A Hiking Family 4. A Story to Remember 5. Alcoholics Anonymous 6. Back to School Supplies 7. Baking Cookies 8. Breakfast Recipes 9. Budget Hotel Rooms 10. Car Rental 11. College Majors 12. College Scholarships 13. College Textbooks 14. Computer Sales 15. Dinner Time 16. Driver's License 17. Emergency Call 18. Exercise Program 19. English Language Center 20. Gardening Show 21. Great Apartment Living 22. Grocery Shopping 23. Haven't We Met Before? 24. Holiday Traditions 25. Japanese Public Bath 26. Just a Haircut, Please! 27. Leisure Activities 28. Medical Advice 29. New York Travel 30. Parenting 31. Personal Security 32. Pizza Delivery 33. Radio Advertising 34. Running Shoes 35. Saturday's Chores 36. Show Times 37. Snacks and Candy 38. Street Market 39. Taxi Ride (Medium) 40. Traffic Ticket 41. TV Guide 42. Vacation Plans 43. Weekly Activities 44. World Cup Soccer 45. World of Computers

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Man: Hi, Sis. I just came over to drop off the DVDs you wanted, and . . . Hey, wow!? Where did you get all of this stuff? Woman: I bought it. So, what do you think of my new entertainment center? And the widescreen TV . . . Man: Bought it? Woman: . . . and my new DVD player. Here, let me show you my stereo. You can really rock the house with this one. Man: But where did you get the dough to buy all this? You didn't borrow money from mom and dad again, did you? Woman: Of course not. I got it with this! Man: This? Let me see that . . . Have you been using Dad's credit card again? Woman: No, silly. It's mine. It's student credit card. Man: A student credit card? How in the world did you get one of these? Woman: I got an application in the mail. Man: Well, why did you get one in the first place? Woman: Listen. Times are changing, and having a credit card helps you build a creditrating, control spending, and even buy things that you can't pay with cash . . . like the plane ticket I got recently. Man: What plane ticket?

Woman: Oh yeah, my roommate and I are going to Hawaii over the school break, and course, I needed some new clothes for that so . . . Man: I don't want to hear it. How does having a student credit card control spending? It sounds you've spent yourself in a hole. Anyway, student credit cards just lead toimpulse spending . . . as I can see here. And the interest rates of student credit cards are usually sky-high, and if you miss a payment, the rates, well, just jump! Woman: Ah. The credit card has a credit limit . . . Man: . . . of $20,000? Woman: No, no quite that high. Anyway, . . . Man: I've heard enough. Woman: Did I tell you we now get digital cable with over 100 channels? Oh, and here's your birthday present. A new MP3 player . . . Man: Yeah. Oh, don't tell me. Charged on the credit card. Listen. Hey, I don't think having a student credit card is a bad idea, but this is ridiculous. And how in the world are you going to pay off your credit card bill? Woman: Um, with my birthday money? It's coming up in a week. Man: Hey, let's sit down and talk about how you're going to pay things back, and maybe we can come up with a budget that will help you get out of this mess. That's the least I can do.

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Key Vocabulary Listen to the key vocabulary and sample sentences:

stuff (noun): miscellaneous items - His room is filled with stuff he bought on his credit card.

dough (noun): informal for money - He didn't have enough dough to buy the TV, so he borrowed money from his brother.

in the world: used to emphasize something you say - Why in the world would you buy an expensive TV if you didn't have enough money?

rating (noun): a measure to show how good something is - You should look over the ratings for MP3 players before you buy one.

over (preposition): during - You shouldn't travel over the weekend because the weather is expected to be terrible.

spend yourself in a hole (idiom): spend too much that leads to heavy debt - Some people spend themselves in a hole because they can't control their shopping habits.

impulse (noun): a sudden desire - You can let your impulses to buy stuff get in the way of good common sense and judgement.

sky-high (adjective): very expensive - Prices for houses in this area are sky-high, so I'm going to look for an apartment for the time being.

ridiculous (adjective): absurd, silly, without good reason - Spending more money than you earn is ridiculous and can lead you to major financial problems.

pay back (phrasal verb): return money you owe - Could you lend me $20 if I pay you back by the end of the week.

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Man: Honey, the basketball game is about to start. And could you bring some chips and a bowl of ice cream? And . . . uh . . . a slice of pizza from the fridge. Woman: Anything else? Man:Nope, that's all for now. Hey,hon, you know, they're organizing a company basketball team, and I'm thinking about joining. What do you think? Woman: Humph Man: "Humph" What do you mean "Humph." I was the star player in high school. Woman: Yeah, twenty-five years ago. Look, I just don't want you having a heart attack running up and down the court. Man:So, what are you suggesting? Should I just abandon the idea? I'm not that out of shape. Woman: Well . . . you ought to at least have a physical before you begin. I mean, it HAS been at least five years since you played at all. Man:Well, okay, but . . . Woman: And you need to watch your diet and cut back on the fatty foods, like ice cream. And you should try eating more fresh fruits and vegetables. Man: Yeah, you're probably right. Woman: And you should take up a little weight training to strengthen your muscles or perhaps

try cycling to build up your cardiovascular system. Oh, and you need to go to bed early instead of watching TV half the night. Man: Hey, you're starting to sound like my personal fitness instructor! Woman: No, I just love you, and I want you to be around for a long, long time. Key Vocabulary

fridge (noun): short for "refrigerator" - I think we need to buy a new fridge. The old one just doesn't cool properly. hon (pronoun): short for "honey" - Hon. Could you wake me up early tomorrow morning? Humph: a word showing disbelief - Humph. There's no way you can lift all that weight! abandon (verb): in this case, "give up" the idea - They had to abandon the plan to build a house due to a financial crisis. out of shape (idiom): in poor physical condition - I have to start exercising because I'm so out of shape. physical (noun): a medical examination - She had to have a physical before she joined the track team. cut back on (phrasal verb): to reduce - I have to cut back on the fatty foods I've been eating. take up (phrasal verb): begin or start - He has decided to take up cooking in his spare time. cardiovascular system (noun): your body`s blood circulation system including your heart, veins, and arteries - Running at least 30 minutes a day helps improve your cardiovascular system.

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My name's Randall Davis, and I'm originally from the state of Indiana in the United States. When I was 19 years old, I moved to Venezuela in South America, and later returned to the United States, where I attended Brigham Young University in the 1980s. I majored in Spanish education and TESOL, or teaching English as a second language. After graduating from college, my wife and I moved to Japan where we lived for eight years. Now, I work back in the States in Utah. However, my greatest interests are my family. Years ago, I wanted to make something of myself in my profession . . . you know . . . get ahead in life. However, I realized that the most important things in life lived within the walls of my own home, and today, I try to put them first. My kids wouldn't remember me for the work I did outside of the home; they would only recall the moments we spent together. Therefore, I enjoy spending time with my family. I have four children, and we go hiking and camping together, usually in Utah. On our hikes, we often talk about life, and I tell stories or share personal experiences. When I do this, I can focus on the kids without the distractions of video games or the Internet. Telling stories sounds easy, but when you have to think of a new story on a hot, 12-kilometer hike through the desert, you have come up with ideas off the top of your head. Now, this doesn't mean we don't have problems; all families face challenges in their lives, and our family is no exception. However, we try to talk openly about our problems, and we try solve our problems together. Building a strong family takes time, but it is worth the effort.
Key Vocabulary make something of oneself (idiom): become successful in a career - My dad never thought I would make something of myself because I didn't graduate from a prestigious university, but I proved him wrong. get ahead (phrasal verb): become successful in the business world - If you want to get ahead in life, you have to set clear goals. realize (verb): understand the importance of something - Many young married couples don't realize how challenging raising children can be until they have children of their own. recall (verb): remember something from the past - I can't recall a time when my parents argued in front of me and my brothers. focus on (verb): pay careful and direct attention to a particular person or thing - When people focus too much on their careers, they sometimes neglect their family's needs. distraction (noun): something that takes your attention away from another activity - Watching too much TV can be a big distraction from building a good relationship with children. off the top of your head (idiom): think of something immediately without preparation - I felt really embarrassed when I couldn't remember her name off the top of my head.

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Police Officer: Hello. 24th Precinct. Officer Jones speaking. Man: Help. Yeah, uh, it was wild, I mean really bizarre. Police Officer: Calm down sir! Now, what do you want to report? Man: Well, I'd like to report a UFO sighting. Police Officer: A what? Man: What do you mean "what?" An unidentified flying object! Police Officer: Wait, tell me exactly what you saw. Man: Well, I was driving home from a party about three hours ago, so it was about 2:00 AM, when I saw this bright light overhead. Police Officer: Okay. And then what happened? Man: Oh, man. Well, it was out of this world. I stopped to watch the light when it disappeared behind a hill about a kilometer ahead of me. Police Officer: Alright. Then what? Man: Well, I got back in my car and I started driving toward where the UFO landed. Police Officer: Now, how do you know it was a UFO? Perhaps you only saw the lights of an airplane [No], or the headlights of an approaching car [No]. Things like that happen, you know.

Man: Well if it was that, how do you explain "the BEAST"? Police Officer: What do you mean, "the BEAST"? Man: Okay. I kept driving for about five minutes when all of a sudden, this giant, hairy creature jumped out in front of my car. Police Officer: Oh, yeah.Then what? Man: Well, then, the beast picked up the front of my car and said, "Get out of the car. I'm taking you to my master!" Something like that. Police Officer: Wow? A hairy alien who can speak English! Come on! Man: I'm not making this up, if that's what you're suggesting. Then, when I didn't get out of the car, the beast opened the car door, carried me on his shoulders to this round-shaped flying saucer, and well, that's when I woke up along side the road. The beast must have knocked me out and left me there. Police Officer: Well, that's the best story I've heard all night, sir. Now, have you been taking any medication, drugs, or alcohol in the last 24 hours? You mentioned you went to a party. Man: What? Well, I did have a few beers, but I'm telling the truth. Police Officer: Okay, okay. We have a great therapist that deals with THESE kinds of cases.

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Man: I'm not crazy. Police Officer: Well, we'll look into your story. Thank you.

Key Vocabulary

precinct: the office of a police department in a particular area - Let's go down to the police precinct and report the burglary.

bizarre: strange or unusual - That's the most bizarre story I've ever heard.

unidentified: unknown or impossible to determine the origin - The police were able to capture the criminal through an unidentified source.

out of this world: unbelievable, incredible - You have to see his enormous house. It's out of this world.

approaching: coming closer - Citizens have been urged to flee the area because of the approachinghurricane.

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Dave's Sister: Hey, Dave. Can we talk for a minute? Dave: Sure about what? I'm kind of busy, but yeah . . . Dave's Sister: Well, . . . .um, well, I'm not sure what to say, but um . . . Dave: Come on. come on. Dave's Sister: Well, . . . Dave: What is it? I've never known my sister to be at a loss for words. Dave's Sister: Well, you know Dave. I've got to be honest. I'm getting really, really concerned about your drinking. Dave: What are you talking about? Dave's Sister: Well, uh, it's . . . Dave: Can't a person just have a few drinks without people getting on their case? I mean, first, Dad, then you! Dave, Dave. No seriously. Listen, Dave. You're my brother. I love you, but you've had two DUIs, you lost your last job because you showed up drunk, your girlfriend's going to dump you because you're drinking too much. Dave. Dave: You don't understand. I have it under control. Dave's Sister: Dave, you don't. Dave: That was the old me.

Dave's Sister: Dave. You got your last DUI three weeks ago. You can't keep doing this. Dave, you're going to kill someone. Dave: I thought . . . Dave's Sister: You might kill yourself. Dave: I thought siblings there, were there to support each other, and that's not what you're doing right now. Dave's Sister: Dave. I love you, and I'm trying to help you. I really care about you. And these friends that you hang out with . . . they're not friends. A friend is a person who is honest and frank with you, not these so-called buddies you've got that encourage you to go and buy booze for any old party. Dave: You just know them like I don't. I mean . . . Dave's Sister: I know them well enough. Come on. Wake up. These guys are dragging you down. Dave: I've had enough. Dave's Sister: No, no. Listen. The truth hurts; it stings. Listen. I know. I've seen what's happening to you, and look, there's . . . Dave: You don't understand. Dave's Sister: You know what? AA. Alcoholics Anonymous. You can go there and you can meet with other people, and they can help you be sober.

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Dave: That's for people who have problems. Dave's Sister: You've got problems, Dave. AA. There's no membership fees, anyone can attend, the meetings are very confidential. I'll even go with you. I'll help you. What do you say? Come on. Dave: Right. Like I said, I'm in control. I just need more time to deal with this. It just takes a little bit more time.

Dave's Sister: Dave. How long? You can't do this alone. You're not doing it. Dave: No, I'm done. You'll see, you'll see. Dave's Sister: Dave, No. I can't . . . it'll kill me if there's another DUI, an accident, something, I'm really worried, Dave. Dave: I'm done, I'm done. I don't want to talk about this anymore.

Key Vocabulary

be at a loss for words (idiom): not knowing what to say - My parents are at a loss (for words) to know how to help my younger sister with the drug addiction.

get on someone's case (idiom): criticize or give someone a hard time - If you don't get on his case for speeding, he'll end up causing a serious accident.

dump someone (verb): end a relationship - Sarah decided to dump her boyfriend because he was involved in self-destructive behaviors.

siblings (noun): simplistic, unimportant - Many siblings experience problems as they grow up.

frank (adjective): direct or open - You often have to be frank with people who are struggling with serious financial problems, so you can help them get out of debt.

booze (noun): alcohol (informal) - They were giving out booze at that party to kids who were drinking illegally.

confidential (adjective): private - Marriage therapists always keep conversations confidential, so you don't have to worry that your problems don't become the gossip of the town.

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Girl: Dad, I need a few supplies for school, and I was wondering if . . . . Dad: Yeah. There are a couple of pencils and an eraser in the kitchen drawer, I think. Girl: Dad, I'm in eight grade now, and I need REAL supplies for my demanding classes. Dad: Oh, so you need a ruler too? Girl: Dad, I need some high-tech tech stuff like a calculator, a Palm Pilot, and a laptop computer. Dad: Uh. I didn't have any of that when I was in middle school, and I did just fine. Girl: Yeah, and they weren't any cars either, WERE there. [Hey] And things are just more progressive now. Dad: Well, we can rule out the hand pilot [Palm Pilot, Dad]. Whatever, AND the computer . . . unless mom lets you sell the car. And as for the adding machine [Calculator]. Yeah, I think mine from college is kicking around here somewhere. Girl: Dad, I need a calculator for geometry, and I have heard you can download free software from the Internet. Dad: Great. My daughter will be playing video games in geometry class. Girl: Dad. Dad: Okay. How much is this thing going to cost me? Girl: Well, I saw it at the store for only $99, WITH a $10 mail-in rebate, or you could buy it online. Dad: Oh. Do they throw in a few aspirin so your father can recover from sticker shock?

Girl: Dad. Please!!!. Everyone has one [I've heard that before.] and you always say you want me to excel in school, and I'll chip in $10 of my own, and I'll even pick up my room [Hey!!]. Dad: Hmmm, 100 bucks. Dad: Well, you'll be supporting me in my old age, so, I guess so. When do you need it? Girl: Now, right now. [Now!] Mom's already waiting in the car for us. [Huh?] She said she would buy me an ice cream if I could talk you into to buying it for me today. Key Vocabulary

demanding (adjective): requiring great effort or work - My history teacher is very demanding. She expects student to memorize so many facts.

mail-in rebate (noun): refund or return of money sent to the purchaser after buying goods - It took two months to receive my mail-in rebate from that company.

throw in (phrasal verb): add as an extra item - The computer store threw in a free set of speakers when I bought a computer.

sticker shock (noun): great surprise at the sales price of an item - I can't get over the sticker shock of seeing the price of cars these days.

chip in (phrasal verb): add or

contribute - My father chipped in money so I could by my first laptop.

buck (noun): informal for dollar - It only costs a few bucks to buy some folders and notebooks for school.

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Chef Randall: Well, hello everyone, and welcome to our show today. And joining me today is my daughter, Ashley, who has had to endure my cooking experiments over the years. Are we ready, Ashley? [Ready to eat.] No, lets wait for a few minutes. Well get to that. But as you know, my faithful listeners, I starting cooking and baking almost 30 years ago when my grandmother taught me in her humble kitchen. In fact, she taught almost everything I know, and I've never attended cooking classes [You should have . . .] Wait, wait, wait . . . know my daughters going to mention to you faithful listeners that recently as I was helping the kids prepare for our kitchen for chicken meal, I forgot to take the chicken out of the oven, burned the bird to a crisp, and we ended up ordering pizza for dinner. Kids: We had to use the fire extinguisher. Chef Randall: But thats another story. So, anyway, today I'd like to share with you our favorite . . . at least my favorite . . . chocolate chip cookie recipe. Now, before you switch the TV channel, I know what you are thinking. "Another fattening cookie recipe." But wait. What makes this recipe great is that it offers a wonderful low-fat, low-calorie, low-cholesterol dessert for the entire family. Kids: We still like the fat though. Chef Randall: Well, I know we do. But lets see. We have all the ingredients, so we can start by mixing all of the ingredients, the sugars, the flour, the egg whites, the low-fat butter, vanilla, baking soda, and a pinch of salt in a large mixing bowl. Then, we add the mini chocolate chips Now, my kids would like me to add the big ones but we start with the mini-chocolate chips. And don't forget to preheat the oven to 350 degrees (Fahrenheit). And finally, when the cookies are done, take them out of the oven, remove them from the cookie sheet, and let them cool before their fingers get into them. Did I forget anything? Kids: Yeah, if you have college-age kids, be sure to make a few extra batchesthey can take back to school for their roommates. And don't forget the kids still at home. Chef Randall: Oh, well yeah. We cant do that. We cant forget them. And unfortunately, by the time your kids get the cookies, you, the cook, will be left with a single cookie - your instant diet plan for you - and a dirty kitchen. So, thats all for today. On next week's show, we will be showing you how to feed hungry teenagers on a budget without having to sell the family car. Until then.

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Key Vocabulary

endure (verb): keep doing something unpleasant or difficult - I can't endure my roommate's cooking for another day. It's terrible!

switch (verb): change - Can we recipes for tonight's dinner? I'd rather have chicken instead of fish.

entire (adjective): complete or whole - My daughter prepared the entire meal for the family.

ingredients (noun): materials for cooking - These are great cookies. What ingredients do you use to make them?

pinch (noun): a small amount - The chicken might taste better if you add a pinch of salt and pepper.

preheat (verb): heat an oven or stove before you start cooking something - First, you should preheat the oven to 325 degrees before you start preparing the meal.

batch (noun): a group of similar things, used also with baking cookies - I don't think two batches of cookies will be enought to feed all of the guests at the party.

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Daughter: Dad, Dad. What's for breakfast? Dad: [Dad mumbles something]Daughter: Dad? [What?] Daughter: What's for breakfast? Dad: Uh, there's a banana on the kitchen counter. Enjoy. Daughter: Dad, that banana's all bruised, and it looks like the cat took a bite out of it last night . . . Dad. Wake up. Dad: Okay. Uh, there's some cereal in the cupboard. Help yourself. Daughter: But there's no milk. Dad: Well, just mix up some powered milk. Daughter: Ah, no way. That stuff is nasty and warm. Come on, Dad. Dad: Uh, okay. I guess I could make some pancakes. Daughter: Uh, no. The last time you made pancakes, they were as hard as a rock. Even the dog wouldn't touch them. Dad: That bad? [Yeah.] Alrigh. Wait! Why in the world are we having this conversation anyway? You're 19 years old. Make your own breakfast. I'm going back to bed. Daughter: Because you love me . . . plus you said that you'd make something for me if I cleaned the dishes last night. Dad: Okay. How about some eggs and bacon? I can't go wrong there. Daughter: Okay, but don't put any of that funny stuff in it . . . you know, thoseweird mushrooms like you did last time. Dad: Okay, okay. So, you want me to keep things simple, right? Daughter: Exactly. But, please hurry. My friend is picking me up in a few minutes. Dad: On a Saturday morning? Daughter: Yeah. He's taking me fishing. Dad: Fishing? Since when did you start liking fishing?

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Daughter: Since Dirk gave me this ring! What do you think? Dad: What? Wait. I'm not going to ask. Let me get breakfast on the table . . . Then, we'll have a long chat. Dad: Oh, he's here. I'll just take the $20 bill out of your wallet. I can buy breakfast on the way. Bye. Dad: Oh, no!

Key Vocabulary

cupboard (noun): a cabinet or storage space for keeping food or other items in the kitchen - You'll find the flour and sugar in the cupboard. Why don't you grab them so we can make some pancakes?

mix (up) (phrasal verb): prepare a food or drink by combining two or more ingredients - Don't forget to mix (up) the eggs really well before you put them in the frying pan.

nasty (adjective): terrible or disgusting - The oatmeal he made for breakfast was nasty, but I didn't want to hurt his feelings, so I didn't say anything.

plus (conjunction): and - You can have eggs and toast for breakfast, plus there is some orange juice in the refrigerator in case you want something to drink.

go wrong (verb): make a mistake - I thought I followed the recipe, but this food tastes terrible, so I wonder where Iwent wrong.

weird (adjective): unusual or strange - Although he uses a lot of weird ingredients in his chicken soup, it always tastes great.

chat (noun): informal conversation - We had a really good chat over breakfast this morning about my daughter's future.

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Man: Hi. I have a reservation for tonight, and I just want to check in. Hotel Clerk: Sure. What's your name? Man: Uh. Mike Adams. Hotel Clerk: Okay. Let me check here. Um. Here's your key to open your door. You're in room 360. Just walk down this hall [Okay.], and you'll see the elevators on your right. Man: Oh, okay, and what time is the restaurant open for breakfast? Hotel Clerk: It serves breakfast from 6:30-10 a.m. Man: Oh, okay. And, uh, where's the exercise room? I'd like to, you know, run a couple of miles before going to bed tonight. Hotel Clerk: It's on the second floor, and it's open til 10 tonight [Okay.], but thetreadmill isn't working. Man: Oh, oh well. And one final question. Do you have wireless Internet in the rooms? Hotel Clerk: We DO [Ah!]. . . for $7.95 a night. Man: Uhhh, I thought something like that would be free. Hotel Clerk: No, sorry, sir but you can get free wireless access if you sit in the parking lot on the far north side. [Oh!] You see, the hotel next to us has wireless and . . . . Man: Oh, great. Um, and uh . . . forget that. And every room has a refrigerator, right? Hotel Clerk: Well, we can have one put in your room for an additional ten dollars a night. Man: Ahhhh. I thought something like that would be included in the price of the room. Hotel Clerk: Sorry, sir. Man: Well, you know, it . . . it kind of irks me it when hotels nickel-and-dime their customers like this. I mean, I checked with sev(eral hotels) . . . I mean I checked with sev(eral hotels) . . . Hotel Clerk: You really should have checked this one too, shouldn't you have,buddy. Man: (Laughing) I . . . I guess that I . . . I'm all flustered now. I mean all the other hotels provide these amenities for free. Hotel Clerk: Sorry, sir. It's just the way it is at this hotel. Man: And the bed? Is that extra too? Hotel Clerk: Of course . . . NOT. Man: Oh. I've had it. I'll just try the hotel across the street. I'm sure they'll give me better service. Hotel Clerk: Okay, but you'd be canceling your reservation here, so we'll have to charge you a cancellation fee of 50% of the cost of the room. Man: Ahhhh, forget it. I can't win either way. What's my room again?

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Hotel Clerk: Three sixty (360). Man: Ughhhhhh!!

Key Vocabulary mile (noun): 1 mile = 1.6 kilometers - Drive down this road about three miles, and you'll see the hotel on the right side of the street. treadmill (noun): a piece of exercise equipment that moves a belt as you run or walk on it - The exercise room at the hotel has two treadmills, so you should be able to run a little before we go out tonight. irk (verb): someone or something that bothers you - It really irks me whenever a hotel room isn't clean. nickel-and-dime (verb): take away someone's money by making the person pay small amounts for something (also an adjective as in "a nickel-and-dime store") - That hotel will nickel-and-dime you to death for every service they provide. It's not worth staying there. buddy or buddy boy (noun): used when speaking to a man or boy, especially when you are annoyed with that person (use with caution because it can be rude depending on the situation) - Look, buddy. I'm in the room next door, so if you don't turn down the TV and start the loud party, I'm going to call the hotel's front desk and complain. be flustered (adjective): be in a bothered or confused state - The hotel guest was really flustered when I couldn't figure out how to open his hotel room door. provide (verb): give or make something available - The mall can provide you with everything that you need for the trip. amenities (noun): things or services that make you comfortable - We chose this hotel because of the many amenities available to guests. I've had it (idiom): used to say that someone is tired or annoyed by something - My wife has had it with this hotel's poor service, so we've decided to check out and go somewhere else. fee (noun): an amount of money you pay for something - - Many hotels charge additional fees for wireless Internet and other services, so be sure to check carefully before making a hotel reservation.

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Rental Car Agent: Hi. How can I help you? Customer: Yeah. I'd like to rent a mid-size car for three days. Rental Car Agent: Okay. Let me check to see if we have one available. Hmmm. It's doesn't look like we do. We have a couple of economy, compact, and full-size cars available, or a nice minivan. Customer: Well, what is the main difference between these cars? Agent: The main difference is size. The economy car is the smallest, and it seats fewer passengers and can hold less luggage. [Okay.] How many people are with you? Customer: Just me and my son. Rental Car Agent: Well, the economy car would work. We have one right out front. Customer: Where? That one? It looks more like a shoebox to me. I'm really tall and trying squeeze into that thing . . . I don't think so. Rental Car Agent: Well, if you need more room or comfort, I recommend the full-size car. It also has a nice stereo system, CD player, [Alright] safety rear door locks, and cruise control, and power locks and windows. Customer: Well, I'm not so concerned about how it's equipped. I just want to make sure it is comfortable to drive. And what is the daily rate for that anyway? Rental Car Agent: Well, let's see here. Oh, yeah. It'll come to fifty-seven ninety-five a day. Customer: Wow, a little expensive. But what's the cost for mileage? Rental Car Agent: Hey, all of our cars have unlimited miles, but of course, that doesn't include gas. Customer: Yeah, right. I bet that car probably eats up gas, and now that were in the middle of the vacation season, gas stations are gouging consumers with astronomical prices. Rental Car Agent: Well, as they say, it comes down to the law of supply an demand. Customer: Well, anyway, can you install a car seat in one of those cars? I have a 3-year-old son with me. Rental Car Agent: Sure, and that'll only be one dollar extra per day. Customer: I'll go with the full-size car. Wait, uh . . . what does it look like? Rental Car Agent: Uh, it's right out there in the parking lot. [Which one?] The one over there next to the sidewalk.

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Customer: Do you mean that old lemon with the missing hubcap? Ahhh. Rental Car Agent: Sir, excuse me. We take pride in our vehicles. It's just that it's one of the last cars on our lot, but it runs like a dream. Don't let the exterior fool you. Hey, I'll even give you an extra fifteen dollars off the daily rate to show you we are serious about pleasing our customers. Will there be any other drivers? Customer: No, I'm the only driver. Rental Car Agent: Okay. Would you like to purchase our daily car protection plan? Customer: What's that exactly? Rental Car Agent: Well, the car protection plan is a complete insurance package covering damage to the vehicle, [Okay] injury or loss of life to you or your passengers [Oh]. It even includes incidental road damage caused by, let's say, a huge boulder rolling down the mountain and crushing your car. [Oh, uh, well . . . ]. However, it won't cover loss of property due to theft. Too much crime in the area anyway. [What? Wh . . . What about this crime? What, what?]. Don't worry about it. And the car protection plan is only seventeen ninety-five per day. [But you were saying?] And the nicest thing about this coverage is that you can rent the car without the worry and hassle of making a complicated claim in case you do have a problem. Customer: But wouldn't my own car insurance cover those problems? Rental Car Agent: It might, but each insurance policy is different. With our car protection plan, however, you deal directly with us in case there is a problem [Well . . . ], and we handle everything quickly, and you don't have to contact your own insurance company. Okay. Let me just confirm this. A full-size car with a car seat for three days [Yeah], plus the car protection package. Is that right? [That's right.] Okay, I'll have our mechanic, Louie, check the car over and pull it up to the door. Customer: Push it up to the door? I hope this car really runs. Rental Car Agent: Well, in case it does break down on some out-of-the-way, deserted road, just call the toll-free number for assistance. They'll come to assist you within . . . two business days. [Two business days!!!] Enjoy your trip.

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Key Vocabulary

eat up (phrasal verb): use or consume a lot of something like fuel or electricity - My parents sold their truck because it ate up so much gas that is was no longer affordable to drive.

gouge (verb): make people pay a lot for something - During natural disasters, some stores tend to gouge consumers by charging high prices for everyday goods.

lemon (noun): a poor-quality car that is useless - My brother knows nothing about cars, and he bought a used car, but it turned out to be a real lemon because it broke down only two hours after he bought it.

like a dream (verb): very well - The minivan runs like a dream; it handles smoothly, and you feel like you are driving a luxury car.

incidental (adjective): unplanned or unexpected - You should budget enough money for maintaining your car because there are often incidental expenses you don't anticipate, like repairing a cracked windshield or fixing a flat tire.

boulder (noun): a large rock - The road was closed for two hours because road crews had to remove several large boulders that tumbled into the road as a result of a major rock slide.

hassle (noun): trouble, difficulty, or bother - It was such a hassle to drive my dad's truck because there was always something wrong with it.

out-of-the-way (adjective): far away from people or cities that is not traveled much - I really enjoy driving to out-of-the-way places because I can get away from large crowds.

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Man: I wonder if this is going to be an interesting class. Woman: Yeah. Me too. So, what's your major? Man: Well, I've been batting around the idea of going into business, but I haven't decided yet. And my dad keeps telling me I have to choose a major, but I'm undeclared at the moment. Woman: Ah, that's what happened to me my freshman year. Man: Oh, so what year are you in school? Woman: I'm a senior, and I only have to take 10 more credits to graduate. Yeah! Man: Well. That must feel great to be almost finished with school. Woman: You can say that again, but once I graduate, I have to start repaying a student loan, so I'm not looking forward to that. Man: But didn't your parents help you out with your college tuition? Woman: No. My dad said he wasn't made of money, so he thought I should earn my own education, so I worked like crazy in the summer and part-time during the school year to cover most of my costs. [Well, that's parents for you.] And, I received some financial aid and a scholarship one year, which really saved me. [Ah, that's nice.] But this past year, school has been more demanding, so I haven't been able to work as much. Man: Well, you know, at least you see the light at the end of the tunnel. Woman: That's true. Man: Well, have you lined up a job yet? Woman: Not yet, but I'm trying to line up a few interviews at the job fair next month. Man: Well, at least you have some ideas on your future. I mean, I'm taking a business class right now, and the teacher always lectures us by saying that life is difficult, and we should prepare for our futures by setting realistic goals. And the only place that success comes before . . . Woman: . . . work is in the dictionary. {Yeah!?] Yeah. I've heard that all before. Let me guess. Is your teacher Paul Jones? Man: Yeah. How do you know? I mean, did you have him too? I mean, the guy is, you know, he's just really . . . Woman: He's my dad. Yeap. Man: Your dad? I mean, I didn't mean anything by what I said. I wasn't bad-mouthing him or anything. I mean he's a good teacher and all. It's just that . . . Woman: . . . he's a dad. That's what dads do. Lecture. He has about a thousandsermons on life, and he always shares them in his classes. Man: Yeah. Well, um . . . , nice talking with you. I have . . . I have to go. Woman: Same here. Bye. I'll tell Mr. Jones you said hello, and maybe we can study together at my house? [Nah, nah, nah . . .]

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Key Vocabulary

so: often used when changing the topic of the conversation - So, what do you want to do after you graduate?

bat around (idiom): consider different choices, including the positive and negative points of each option - My daughter batted around a few ideas on where to travel over the holidays until she settled on Hawaii.

you can say that again (idiom): used when completely agreeing with someone - So, you think the teacher is too difficult? You can say that again.

help out (phrasal verb): help someone who is in need, especially when they have problems - Because my parents are old, I try to help them out whenever I can.

see the light at the end of the tunnel (idiom): something that gives you hope for the future after a period of difficult problems or challenges - College life was difficult, but by my last semester, I felt more relaxed because I could see the light at the end of the tunnel: graduation was just around the corner.

line up (phrasal verb): arrange - I need to line up an appointment with my school advisor by the end of the week.

realistic (realistic): actually possible - My younger brother isn't very realistic; he thinks he can get a great-paying job right out of high school without any training.

bad-mouth (idiom): criticize - He always bad-mouths people behind their backs. If you have anything to say about people, it's best to say it to their faces.

sermon (noun): a talk with moral advice about life - The minister gave an interesting sermon at church this past week about serving others in need.

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Student: Oh, Mrs. Smith. Can I take the test now? I just . . ., oh. Mrs. Smith: Excuse me? What do you mean? The test ended 10 minutes ago, and you weren't there to take it. Sorry. Student: Oh, Mrs. Smith. Come on. Come on. That's not fair. Mrs. Smith: What do you mean it's not fair. Everyone else was there. So, why weren't you in class? Student: Uh, my bus didn't come this morning on time. That's why. Mrs. Smith: Um. Are you sure? Your friend, Tony, made it to class, and he said you were still in bed an hour ago. Student: Uhh, yeah, well, that might be true, but I really need to take the test. Mrs. Smith: Wait. Don't you realize that you just lied to me? Student: Uh, well, listen. Mrs. Smith. Listen. My alarm didn't go off this morning, so it's not my fault I came late. Mrs. Smith: So, you're blaming your alarm clock again? It's still your responsibility to be here. Wasn't that your excuse the last two times you missed class? Student: But Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Smith. Mrs. Smith: Listen. You know the policy of our program. If you miss a test for an unexcused reason . . . and a lie is definitely unexcused, then you get a zero on the test. There are no exceptions. Student: Mrs. Smith. Why don't you want to help me? You never help me. I mean I really need to pass this class. Mrs. Smith: No, no. no. Listen to yourself. You're playing what we call the victim. You made some bad choices, and now you have to accept the consequences. Remember: When you point your finger at someone else, like me in this case, three fingers are pointing back at you. Student: But Mrs. Smith. I lose my scholarship if I do poorly in the class; my parents will be really disappointed in me. Mrs. Smith: I'm really sorry, but that's not my problem. [Oh, Mrs. Smith!] I can't help you with that. Don't try to shift the blame here. [Mrs. Smith!] You painted yourself into a corner. You need to be accountable for your own actions instead of trying toweasel out of your responsibility. While you aren't doing well in my class though, I must say I almost have to give you an A grade for trying to dodge the outcome of your bad choices. Student: Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Smith.

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Mrs. Smith:Listen. You are learning one thing. Student: What? Mrs. Smith:My name. Student: Agh. Key Vocabulary

come on (idiom): used when do not believe what someone is saying - Come on! Tuition at that college isn't that expensive, is it?

make it (idiom): get somewhere on time - Why didn't you make it to class the other day?

consequence (noun): something that happens as a result of a person's actions or choices - My roommate has to accept the consequences of his poor grades.

blame shift (also, shift blame) (verb): transfer the responsibility of a mistake or problem from one person to another - If you do poorly in school, don't try to shift the blame to your roommates who play video games all night. You are responsible for your own progress.

paint yourself into a corner (idiom): do something to put yourself into a difficult situation - Okay. So, you didn't study, you didn't go to class, you didn't take things seriously, and now the school isn't going to continue your scholarship. It looks like you've really painted yourself into a corner.

weasel out of something (idiom): get out of doing something - He tried to weasel out of taking the class again by giving the teacher gifts, but it didn't work.

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Carl: Hey, Sis. Are you interested in buying some used books for school? You can really save some money that way. Ashley: Well, what do you have? Carl: Well, let's see. I have a science book called, Today's World, and I'm selling it for thirty dollars. Ashley: Thirty? That's a little expensive for a beatup book like that. Carl: Maybe so, but I bought it for sixty. Plus, I wrote a lot of notes in the book that should help you with the class . . . if you could read my writing. Ashley: What else are you selling? Carl: Okay, I have English writing textbook for fourteen dollars, a math book for twenty-three, and a novel for only seven bucks. Ashley: Uh, Hmmm. Carl: It's up to you. You know, these things go fast. I mean you have to listen to my advice as your older brother. Ashley: Psh. I'll take the English book and the novel. I need both of those for sure. I think I'll hold off on buying other books for now. [Okay.] Teachers are always changing their minds about textbooks. [Alright.] And, what are those books? Carl: Which ones? Ah, ah, nothing. Never mind. Ashley: Wait, wait, wait. Finding Your Perfect Someone. You're selling it for forty dollars? What's, what's this all about? And the price?

Carl: Well. You . . It's a . . . It's just a marital relations class. You know about finding a partner. You know, mom's always, you know, on me about that. What does it matter to you anyway? Ashley: Forty dollars? That's a little expense. Carl: Well, they guarantee results, but ah, never mind. You would never understand. Ashley: What about this one? Introduction to Gourmet Cooking? Why did you take this class? You hate cooking. Carl: Well, um, I have a friend who's into cooking, and she's [She?] . . . I mean, my friend's taking the class. I mean, ugh, does it really matter? Ashley: A marriage class . . . a close female friend . . . a cooking textbook . . . I think I get the picture. Mom's going to be excited about this. Carl: Ah, you got it all wrong. So, do you want to buy any of these textbooks or not?

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Key Vocabulary

be into something (phrasal verb): be interested in something - My brother is really into swimming. He goes to the pool everyday.

sis (noun): informal for sister - Hey, sis. Do you want a ride to school today?

beat-up (adjective): in bad condition - I don't care if the book is all beat-up as long as it is cheap.

ugh: expression of dislike or disgust - Ugh. I can't believe you didn't pass that class even though you spent so much money on books and tuition. I guess that's your fault because you never went to class much.

buck (noun): informal for dollar - You can save a few bucks if you buy used books from friends or online.

get the picture (idiom): understand - Kathy says she doesn't want to go out with me, but I think I get the picture now. She's just not interested in me.

hmmm: a sound that people make when they are thinking about what to say - Hmmm. That's a difficult question. Let me think about it.

psh: expression of lack of respect - Did she really say that she studies really hard? Psh. She's always skipping class, so there's no way she is doing well in school.

hold off on (phrasal verb): wait - My daughter decided to hold off on attending college this semester.

never mind: don't worry about something - Well, never mind. I think I'll buy the book online instead. Thanks for offering to sell me your book.

be on someone (phrasal verb): complain about someone or something that a person does - His wife is always on him for spending so much money on textbooks and then not attending classes regularly.

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Phone Recording: Hello and thank you for calling computer technical support. Caller: Uh, yes, I have a problem . . . Phone Recording: Your call is important to us, and we will answer your call in the order that it was received. You are number 47 in the queue. Your approximate waiting time is 47 minutes. Technical support: Jason, speaking. How can I help you? Caller: Oh, I'm saved. I thought I was going to have to wait all day. Technical support: Okay, what's the problem? Caller: Yeah, well, I bought one of your laptop computers about three weeks ago, but it just isn't running right. Technical support: Okay, well, sorry to say, but your computer is no longerunder warranty. [What?!] It ran out yesterday. Caller: What? A three-week warranty? [Yeah, great isn't it.]. Ah!!! Technical support: Okay, okay, what seems to be the problem? Caller: Well, first of all, the thing always freezes [Yeah.] and has crashed azillion times . . . [Always.] Technical support: Uh, sir . . . Caller: . . . and I think the computer's infected with spyware and the big banana trojan virus . . . [That's normal.] That's my biggest . . . that's normal? . . . That's my biggest concern. Technical support: Oh, oh, uh, sir . . . Caller: . . . and plus there was a ton of preinstalled, third-party programs that justclutter the computer, and I'm at wit's end trying to get this thing to work. Technical support: Sir. I have to put you on hold. Caller: What? Technical support: It's going to take us a minute or so to diagnose the problem. [Huh?!] I'm going to transfer you to our ONE technician.

Caller: One . . . one!? But . . . Phone Recording: Thank you for waiting. Your call is important to us. You are number 84 in the queue. You approximate waiting time is 2 hours, 17 minutes or whenever we get around to answering your call. [ End of call and continuation of computer advertisement . . . ] Caller and Narrator: Does this experience sound familiar? Then, do what I did. If your computer is holding your hostage and you can't get the service youdeserve, then call Turbo Command, creators of the safest and most reliable computers and operating system on the planet. Listen, while the competition is spending all of their time trying to imitate our computer's performance and features, our company is innovating the computer industry. So, why buy a computer that hiccups every time you turn it on when you can be the owner of the sleekest and friendliest machine ever. Call us today or visit our Website for more information, and let us introduce you to the ultimate computer experience.

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Key Vocabulary

queue (noun): a list or line of phone calls to be answered (often considered British English); can also be used to describe a line of people waiting for a service - The phone message says I'm number 3 in the queue, but I have been waiting for over 20 minutes to talk to someone in customer support. run (verb): operate or function - This computer was running great yesterday, but I can't get it started today. be under warranty (phrasal verb): protected by a written promise by a company to fix or replace one of its products - If you're having problems with the digital camera, send it back to the manufacturer to get a refund. The camera is still under warranty. run out (phrasal verb): reach the ending period of an agreement or contract - Sometimes, a product you buy will function perfectly long after the warranty runs out. freeze (verb): stop moving - I really hate this computer because it always freezes right when I'm trying to save important documents. crash (verb): stop working - My old computer was constantly crashing everyday, so I reinstalled the operating system to see if that would fix the problem. zillion (noun): a very large number - I've told you a zillion times what the problem is. Don't you understand it now?

clutter (verb): fill an area with things and make it messy - I hate some computer companies because they tend to clutter their machines with junk software most people don't use. be at wit's end (idiom): be very frustrated because you cannot solve a problem - To tell the truth, I'm at my wits' end trying to figure out the problem with my computer. diagnose (verb): determine the nature of a problem - The technical support person couldn't diagnose the software conflict even after working on it for three hours. deserve (verb): earn something or be worthy of some consideration - Our customers deserve friendly and honest service every time they walk in our store. imitate (verb): copy or reproduce an idea or product - Unfortunately, many companies can only imitate the high-quality products of other businesses . innovate (verb): come up with new ideas or methods - If you don't innovate, your business will no longer be competitive. sleek (adjective): attractive - The company's newest MP3 is really sleek, and it should sell well. ultimate (adjective): the best or most superior final one - The ultimate goal of our company is to be number one in our field.

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Father: Time to eat! Daughter: Coming. Oh, I'mstarving. [Good, good.] Oh yuck! What's that? Father: Ah, now don't complain! Daughter: But what is it, and where is mom? Father: Now, mom put me in charge of dinner because she's not feeling well tonight. Daughter: But what is it . . . and that smell! Father: It's pizza. I just followed an old family recipe here, and . . . Daughter: Let me see that . . . Oh, Dad. [What?] You're missing a page! Father: Oh, uh, well, uh . . . well I couldn't find the second page of the recipe, but don't worry. I have plenty of experience around the house. Plenty of experience cooking. Daughter: That's not what mom says. Father: Well, wait, wait, here let me try a piece first. Here, let me, let me cool this off here. Ohhh, yeah. Oh, this is great stuff. Daughter: Yeah right. Why are you making that face? Father: Well, well, it's just, just a little rich for me. That's all. Daughter: Let me try it Dad. Uh. Dad. You put a little too much salt in it and besides it's burned. [Well . . . ] And what's that?

Father: Oh, well, well, that's just part of my own adaptation to the recipe. I added some pumpkin. Daughter: Oh, not another one of your surprises. Pumpkin doesn't go on pizza! Father: Well, okay, well, so what? Uh, what do we do now? Daughter: Well, how about some cold cereal . . . You can't mess up on that, Dad. Key Vocabulary

starving (verb): hungry, famished - Many deer will starve to death in the mountains because of the harsh winter.

yuck or yucky: expression showing strong displeasure or dislike for something(informal) - Oh, Dad. I don't like this yucky soup.

adaptation (noun), adapt (verb): a change or modification to something, revision - Sometimes it takes time to adapt to the customs and language of another culture.

mess up (phrasal verb): (1) to make a mistake or (2) make something untidy or cluttered - If you take your eyes off that boy, he might mess up your entire house.

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Daughter: Guess what, Mom. I got it. Mother: Great. That's super. Father: What's going on? So, what did you get me? Daughter: Nothing. I got my driver's license. Okay. Bye. Father: Wait, wait, wait. Where are you going? Daughter: Mom said I could take the car to school this morning, and . . . Father: Hold on here. I've prepared a few rules regarding the use of the motor vehicles in this house. Daughter: Like what? Father: Let me get my notes here. Daughter: Dad! That looks like a book? Mom, Dad's being mean to me. Father: Okay, let me get my reading glasses here. Okay, here we are. Rule number one: No driving with friends for the first six months. Daughter: What? Father: Teenagers often lack the judgment to drive responsibly, especially when several teenagers are involved. I mean they speed, they joyride, they cruisearound town way past midnight. Daughter: But that's not me! Do I really need this lecture? This is such a drag! Father: Furthermore, who really needs a car when a pair of shoes will work? I mean, life was different when I was your age. In fact, I used to walk to school . . . Daughter: Yeah, yeah. I know. Both ways uphill in ten feet of snow. I've heard this story many times. Father: Yeah. Oh, where were we? Oh yes. Rule number two: You always must wear your seat belt and obey the rules of the road. Daughter: Duh. I wasn't born yesterday. Father: Okay, rule number three: You can't drive long distances at night because you might get drowsy and drive off the road. But driving to the movie theater is fine. Daughter: But the movie theater is right across the street from our house.

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Father: Exactly, so you can just park in the driveway and walk there. Daughter: Mom! Dad's being unreasonable. Father: And rule number four: You should never use a cell phone while driving. That could cause an accident. Daughter: But YOU do. Father: That's different. Daughter: How's it different? You even need my help to turn your cell phone on. Father: And rule number five: Remember that I love you, and I'm just a protective father who wants his daughter to always be safe. Daughter: Does that mean I can take the car now? Father: Well, I don't know. Daughter: Please dad, please. You're the best dad in the whole wide world. Father: That's not what you said earlier. Daughter: Hey, having the car keys in my hands changes my whole perspective on life. Father: Well, okay. I guess if I'm considered the best dad in the world for five minutes, then I'll accept that. Daughter: Yeah. Father: Okay, but drive carefully and don't forget to fill up the car with gas before you come home. [Bye. Love ya guys.] Okay. Hon, do you think I did the right thing? Mother: Yeah. She has to grow up sometime.

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Key Vocabulary

joyride (verb): take a car without permission and drive it around for pleasure, sometimes in a reckless way - If teenagers joyride and violate other laws, they will be arrested and charged.

cruise (verb): drive a car around an area with no particular destination in mind - A lot of youth cruise the streets downtown at night.

lecture (noun): a long, serious talk often used to criticize - My dad always gives me a lecture about the way I drive, and I don't like it at all.

drag (noun): something that is really annoying - Driving with my parents is such a drag because they are back-seat drivers---always telling me what to do.

duh (interjection): used to say that what someone else said is unnecessary because it is just common sense - So, you're saying she's going to lose her license if she drinks and drives? No duh.. Everyone knows that.

drowsy (adjective): sleepy - You need to pull the car over and rest if you start to feel drowsy.

hon (noun): short for honey, used to address someone you love - Hon. Do you mind driving now. I'm feeling a little drowsy.

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Operator: Hello. This is the emergency 911 operator. Taxi Driver: Help. Help. Please help me! Operator: Yes sir. Please calm downand explain exactly what is happening. Taxi Driver: Calm down! My car isstalled on the freeway, I have a lady passenger, and she's going into labor. Operator: Now relax sir. Explain exactly where you are. Taxi Driver: I'm . . . I'm in the southbound lane of the Lincoln Expressway, about 15 miles from the Washington Tunnel, and this lady isn't going to wait. Operator:Okay. What's your name sir and your passenger's? Taxi Driver: It's ... it's Bob, and I have no idea about the woman. She's in no condition to tell me. Operator: Okay, now what's the nearest landmark to your location? Pay careful attention.

Taxi Driver: Umm, I see golden arches . . . McDonalds. Operator: Okay, is there anyone else with you? Taxi Driver: No, and I've tried to get someone else to stop. [The sound of a bottle breaking.] Operator: Hey, what was that? [Ahhhh!] Taxi Driver: Ah, someone threw a bottle at me. How soon can someone get here? Operator: I've just dispatched an ambulance to your location. They should be there any second. Taxi Driver: Hey, is there anything I can do while we wait for the ambulance? Operator: Yes, uh, keep her calm and warm. Taxi Driver: Okay. Please hurry. Oh, they're too late. It's a boy!

Key Vocabulary

calm down (verb): relax - The police officer tried to calm down the angry crowd. stalled (verb): to stop, often due to mechanical problems - The small plane's engine stalled as it passed through a terrible rain storm. landmark (noun): an object, such as a building, that marks a location - The lighthouse on the tip of the bay is a famous landmark in this town. dispatched (verb): to send off - A fire engine was dispatched five minutes ago to respond to the fire

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Josh: Hey, I hear you and Stephanie are really getting serious. Michael: Yeah, I think she'll be impressed with my new exercise program. Josh: What? What are you talking about? What exercise program? What did you tell her? Michael: Well, you know, I enjoy staying in shape. [Right] First, Igenerally get up every morning at 5:30 a.m. Josh: Oh, yeah. Since when? You don't roll out of bed until at least 7:30 p.m. Michael: No, no, and on Mondays and Wednesdays, Josh: Ah, not another tall tale . . . Michael: I almost always go jogging for about a half hour, you know, to improve my endurance. Josh: Hey, jogging to the refrigerator for a glass of milk doesn't count. Michael: Of course, before I leave, I usually make sure I do some stretches so I don't pull a muscle on my run. Key Vocabulary

Josh: Right. One jumping jack. Michael: Then, I told her that I usually lift weights Tuesdays and Thursdays for about an hour after work. Josh: Humph. Michael: This helps me build muscle strength. Josh: A one-pound barbell. Michael: Finally, I often go hiking on Saturdays with my dog [What dog!?], well, and I like hiking because it helps me burn off stress and reduce anxiety that builds up during the week. Josh: Oh yeah, those lies. Michael: Well, uh, as for Fridays, I sometimes just relax at home by watching a movie or inviting you over to visit. Josh: If I buy the pizza. Michael: But . . . bu . . . And on Sundays, I take the day off from exercising, but I usually take my dog for a walk. Josh: Forget it. She'll never buy this story.

generally (adverb): usually - She generally does aerobics right after she gets up. tall tale (noun): unusual or unbelievable story - His running in a 100 kilometer race is just a tall tale. He gets tired just walking to the kitchen table.

endurance (noun): the ability to keep doing something difficult for a period of time - I don't know if he has the endurance to play the entire basketball game. burn off (verb): get rid of - The teacher had the boy run around the gym to burn off his extra energy. anxiety (noun): feelings of being worried - Working out at the health club helps me get rid of anxiety and frustration from work.

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buy a story (idiom): believe something that is probably not true

- Don't buy his story that he exercises everyday. It's just not true.

Receptionist: English Language Center. How may I help you? Caller: Yes. I'm calling to find out more information about your program. For example, what kind of courses do you offer? Receptionist: Well, first of all, the purpose of our program is to provide language learning opportunities to this area's community [Uh-hum], whether a student's goal is to master basic functional language skills, let's say, for his or her job, or to study intensively to enter a US college or university. Caller: Okay. I'm calling for a friend who is interested in attending a US university. Receptionist: And that's the kind of, uh, instruction that we provide, from basic communication courses to content-based classes such as computer literacy, intercultural communication, and business English. Caller: Great. What are your application deadlines for the next semester? Receptionist: Well, we ask applicants to apply no later than two months before the semester begins. [Uh-hum] This gives us time to process the application and issuethe student's I-20. Caller: An I-20? Receptionist: Oh, an I-20 is a form that indicates that we are giving permission for the student to study in our program, and then the student takes this form to the US embassy in his or her country to apply for the F-1 student visa. Caller: Alright. What is the tuition for a full-time student? Receptionist: It's two thousand thirty dollars. Caller: And how does one apply? Receptionist: Well, we can send you an application and you can mail it back to us, or you can fill out our application that's online at our Web site. Caller: And are there other materials I would need to send in addition to the application form? Receptionist: Uh, yes. You would need to send in a $35 non-refundable application fee [Uh-huh], a sponsorship form indicating who will be responsible financially for the student while studying in our program, and a bank statement showing that you or your sponsor has sufficient funds to cover tuition expenses and living costs for the entire year of study.

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Caller: And how can I send these materials to you? Receptionist: You can either send the application packet by regular mail or you can fax it. Caller: And the application fee? Receptionist: We accept money orders, travelers checks, or credit cards. Caller: Alright. I think that's about it. Receptionist: Okay great. Caller: Oh and what is your name? Receptionist: Ok. My name is Tony Nelson. You can just call and ask for me. Caller: Great. Thank you for help. Receptionist: No problem and please don't hesitate to call again if you have any other questions. Caller: Okay. Goodbye. Key Vocabulary

attending (verb): going to - I'm thinking about attending a language school in England next fall.

content-based classes (noun): classes that focus on a particular subject - This program is well-known for its emphasis in content-based classes such as engineering.

literacy (noun): the ability to read and write - Literacy is one key to educating the public.

deadlines (noun): dates by which something must be done or completed - What is the deadline for submitting my application?

apply (verb): to turn in or submit an application - I've decided to apply for an academic scholarship.

issue (verb): to prepare and distribute - The police officer issued the driver a warning for speeding in a school zone.

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Susan: Hi. Welcome back to Susan's Gardening Show. I'm Susan, and we're ready to take our next caller. We have Mark from Seattle. Are you still there, Mark? Mark: Uh. Yeah, but maybe not for long. Susan: So, how can we help you today? Mark: Okay. Uh, my wife is really intogardening, and about five years ago, she received a beautiful climbing rose bush . . . I think an Agatha Christie [That's a nice one.] from her mother who has passed away. Anyway, the rose plant seems to be on its last leg. Susan: Really? Nomally, that rose is really quite hardy [I know.], and it's very disease-resistant, too. [I know.] Mark: Yeah. Well, this situation ISN'T normal. You see about a week ago, I was doing some yard work, and I was using some weed killer [UH-oh.], yeah, to try to get rid of some terrible weeds and . . . Susan: Did you spray the roses? Mark: Uh, well, not exactly. I set the spray container down near the roses while I was trimming a bush, and the container must have gotten knocked over, and the weed killer soaked into the ground near the roses. Susan: How much weed killer are you talking about? Mark: Uh, about six or seven quarts (about six liters or 1.6 gallons), I think. [Oh, that's a lot.] You know, I mean when you put . . .

Susan: And the roses? What do they look like now? Mark: Oh, Dead, real dead. Dead as a doornail dead, but my wife hasn't seen them yet. Susan: Really? What have you done? Blindfolded her? Mark: Well, I've kept her away from that side of the house where the roses are, but she is bound to see them at some point. Susan: Yeah, yeah. You've got a problem. Mark: I mean, is there anything I can do to revive them? Susan: Not unless you're a magician. Mark: Well, can you recommend a quick-growing variety that can take its place? Susan: Marc. I'm sorry. You've made a mistake . . . A big mistake. Mark: . . . except that my wife warned me this could happen . . . Oh, man. Susan: Oh, shoot. Listen. You made a blunder. A big mistake. A really big mistake. But unless you wife goes on vacation for a couple of years, you're not going to be able to replace the roses that fast. Mark: So, any recommendation? I mean, what do I do? Susan: You need to talk to her. Mark: Are you kidding? You don't know my wife.

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Susan: I'm sorry. Look. You've waited long enough. Don't let the grass grow around your feet. Say something, but be sure to hide the garden shears before you do. Knell down; ask for forgiveness now. Mark: But that's what I did when I killed her prized apple tree last year. Susan: No way. Really? Mark: Oh, man. Oh! She's coming in from outside [Oh, no, oh no.]. Susan: One final word: Hide the weed killer. [But . . .] Thanks, Mark. That's all the time we have for now. Let's move on to the next caller. Key Vocabulary

be/looks dead as a doornail (idiom): undoubtably dead - Unfortunately, our pet chicken in the garden looks as dead as a doornail. It must have died during the snow storm last night.

be bound to (verb): be likely to happen - Seeing that you have taken so good care of your garden, you are bound to have a great harvest this summer and fall.

revive (verb): bring back to life or make something more alive - I think it is too late. No matter how much you water that plant, you won't be able to revive it.

blunder (noun; also a verb): a careless or embarrassing mistake - It was a real blunder not to have watered the garden more frequently. Now, none of the plants will survive.

be into something (idiom): be interested in something - I was really into running for awhile until I injured my knee.

be on one's last leg (idiom): be ready to die or give out because of lack of energy - My truck is on its last leg, so I need to start looking for a new one.

let the grass grow around your feet (idiom): wait, waste time, or delay doing something - When it comes do doing well in school, you should never let the grass grow around your feet. Get busy and study every day.

hardy (adjective): strong or sturdy - You need to plant hardy varieties of bushes in this area because of the harsh winter weather.

shears (noun): a gardening tool that looks like a large pair of sissors for cutting and trimming bushes and plants - Does anyone know where the shears are? I need them to trim the bushes in the front yard.

get rid of (idiom): throw away or discard - You should get rid of these plants; they are growing out of control.

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Apartment Owner: Hello. Caller: Hi. I'm calling about the ad for the apartment found in today's newspaper. Apartment Owner: Okay. Caller: I'm kind of desperate, and I need something right away. Apartment Owner: Okay. What would you like to know? Caller: First of all, how big is it? Apartment Owner: It's a two-bedroom apartment with a living room, dining room and kitchen, and one bathroom. There's also a place for a washer and dryer. Caller: Okay, and how old is the apartment complex? Apartment Owner: Well, let's just say it has a lot of history. To be honest, my great grandfather built it during the 1920s, but it's a very sturdy and sound structure. Caller: Oh, and . . . so, is the apartment furnished at all? Apartment Owner: Oh, yeah. The apartment is partially furnished with a refrigerator, stove, and my grandmother's old dishwasher. Caller: Your grandmother's old dishwasher? Okay. What's the rent? Apartment Owner: It's $950 a month.

Apartment Owner: Whoa. That is a little steep for me. Caller: But you could always split the cost with a roommate. Caller: Perhaps. Does that include utilities? Caller: Well, the rent includes gas and electricity, but not the phone bill. And the water pump is right out the back door. Caller: Water pump! [Yeah.] Oh, yeah. Well, can I rent month-to-month, or do I have to sign a lease for a longer period of time? Apartment Owner: We require a 6-month commitment for the apartment, and if you cancel the agreement anytime during that period, hey . . . you lose yourdeposit. Caller: Oh, and how much is the deposit? Apartment Owner: It's $400, and, of course, this money is used to repair damage or general wear and tear on our apartment, like the leaks in the old roof from last year's snow storm. Man, that was ugly. Plaster falling down from the ceiling. And I didn't even know there was a rat's nest up there, but we got that taken care of. Caller: A what? Do I get my deposit back after I move out? That's assuming that I even move in. Apartment Owner: Generally speaking, we return the deposit, minus a small fee for, you know, cleaning the apartment for the next tenant, but if you trash the place, then don't expect to get anything back.

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Caller: Okay. Oh, um . . . how close is the apartment to the university campus? Apartment Owner: It's about eight blocks from campus, but you can catch a number of busses right out in front. Caller: Oh, so, then, if there's a busy road out front, is it noisy? Apartment Owner: Well, there are always tradeoffs: it's a little noisy with the road outside and the airport behind you, but the place is really convenient because there's a supermarket and shopping center right across the street. Just keep the windows closed and a pair of ear plugs handy, and you'll be fine. Caller: Okay, and one last question. Are there parking spaces for tenants? Apartment Owner: Yeah. The apartment has two covered parking spaces, which are really convenient during certain times of the year. Caller: Uh . . . I don't know. Is it possible for me to drop by and visit the apartment tomorrow morning? Apartment Owner: Sure, but just remember we rent the apartment on a first-come, first-serve basis, so there's no guarantee it'll still be available then. Caller: Okay. Thanks. Um . . . and where exactly is the apartment located? Apartment Owner: It's one block west of the waste water treatment plant. Caller: Ah . . . . Are pets allowed?

Apartment Owner: Well, you can keep small pets like a hamster in a small cage, but we don't allow larger animals like dogs, cats, or snakes. Things like that. Caller: Um, I have a rat . . . Apartment Owner: You don't have anything like that, do you? Caller: Well, I have a rat that I keep in a cage. Will that be okay? Apartment Owner: Well, as long it doesn't escape, I guess that's okay. Caller: And what's your name? Apartment Owner: It's Norman. Norman Bates. Caller: Alright, Mr. Bates. I'll see you tomorrow. Bye. Apartment Owner: Bye.

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Key Vocabulary

- Don't expect to get your deposit back when you move out if you haven't taken good care of the place.

furnished (adjective): having furniture in a living area such as an apartment - Our first apartment wasn't furnished with any appliances, so we had to buy them.

wear and tear (noun): the amount of expected damage of something from normal use - A certain amount of wear and tear is pretty normal when renting an apartment.

steep (adjective): expensive - The rent for the condo we looked at this morning was a little steep, so we decided to look for something else instead.

tenant (noun): someone who rents a house or an apartment - The tenant next door always holds wild parties on the weekends, and I never can get any sleep.

split (verb): divide and share something - The rent for housing near campus was a little steeper than I expected, so I decided to find a roommate to split the costs.

trash (verb): destroy something through carelessness - My roommate trashed our place while I was gone on vacation.

utilities (noun): services such as electricity, gas, and water - I'm looking for a place where the utilities are included in the cost of the rent.

trade-off (noun): a balance or exchange between options requiring compromise - There is often a trade-off between living on campus and renting an apartment off campus.

lease (noun): a legal agreement giving permission to use something for a specific period of time - Be sure to read carefully the terms of the lease before you sign it because you will be bound to the agreement.

deposit (noun): money given as security to use something temporarily

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Man: Hey. Can you give me a hand with the groceries? And I told you I could do the shopping. Woman: Wow! Do we really need all this stuff? Let me see thatreceipt. Man: Hey, I only bought theessentials. Woman: Okay. Let's see. Dog food. Twenty-four dollars and seventy cents ($24.70)? We don't even have a dog! Man: Well, it WAS going to be a surprise, but look in the back of the truck. Woman: What? Man: Ah, ha, hah. Speechless. I knew you'd love him. Woman: That thing? That dog's as big as a horse. He probably eats like one, too. Man: Ah, but he's sure friendly. And someone was giving him away at the supermarket, and I . . . I . . . I couldn't let that poor thing pass another day without a loving home. Woman: Whatever. Where was I? Eighteen dollars and nineteen cents ($18.19) for twenty-four cans of tomato juice? You don't even like that stuff! Man: Ahhhh. Not yet. I've decided to change my eating habits. Woman: Right. Man: You'll see, you'll see. Woman: Okay. Let's see. Three eighty-four ($3.84) for a box of chocolate cookies and twelve fifty-six ($12.56) for a case of soft drinks. [Yeah!] Changing your eating habits, huh? Do you really think that cookies are some type of diet food? Man: Hey, I'll just eat a cookie or two every other hour. In fact, they're a great source of carbohydrates for energy. And, you see, the tomato juice and cookies kind of, you know, cancel each other out. Woman: Oh brother. I can't believe what I'm hearing. Let's see. Where was I? Acarton of eggs, two fifty ($2.50) for a gallon of milk, three cans of tuna. Okay. [Yeah.] And finally two steaks for eight fourteen ($8.14) . Now, something worth enjoying. I'll get the grill started. Man: Oh, we . . . w . . . well. The steaks are for Herbert. Woman: Herbert. Who's Herbert?

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Man: Uh, he's the dog. [No!] You see, the previous owner said that he's kind of . . . he's somewhat picky about what he eats, [No!], and the steaks might help himadjust [Absolutely not!] . . . . no, no, no, and the steaks might help him adjust to his new home. Hey, what are you doing? Oh, no. Why did you throw the steaks out on the ground outside? Woman: Well, now, you and Herbert can get to know each other better. I'm going out to eat by myself. Man: Ughh..

Key Vocabulary

give someone a hand (idiom): help someone, especially with something that requires physical work - A store employee gave my mom a hand to load the groceries in the car. groceries (noun): food and other things sold at a supermarket - She bought some groceries for the tonight's party. stuff (noun): type(s) of thing(s) (singular or plural) - You can buy that stuff at any grocery store. receipt (noun): a small piece of paper that shows what you bought at a store - You need the receipt to return that stuff to the store. Otherwise, they won't refund your money. essentials (noun): the most needed things - You can buy all of the essentials for your trip in this section of the mall. speechless (adjective): unable to speech because you are angry, unhappy/happy, embarrassed, or surprised - His behavior left me speechless because

he spent so much without talking with his wife.

give away (phrasal verb): give something without selling it, especially when you do not need it anymore - The store was giving away free samples of fried chicken. whatever (interjection): used when you don't care what the person says - A: Are you really going to eat all that ice cream? B: Sure, why not? A: Whatever. I told you before that you won't lose weight that way, but you never listen to me. I'm done giving you advice. case (noun): a large box or container in which things are sold or stored - Could you pick up three cases of chicken soup? I thought we could give some away to family and friends who really need it. carton (noun): a small cardboard box that contains food or drink - She drank a small carton of juice! adjust (verb): get used to a new situation - It often takes time to adjust to new foods.

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Man: Hi. Uh, haven't we met before? You look so familiar. Woman: Yeah. We met on campus last week, [Yeah!] and you asked me the same question. Man: Oh, oh really? I'm really sorry, but I'm terrible with names. But, but, but . . . Let me guess. It's Sherry, right? Woman: No, but you got the first letter right. Man: I know, I know. It's on the tip of my tongue. Wait. Uh, Sandy, Susan. [Nope. So, was I that memorable?] Wait, wait. It's Sharon. Woman: You got it . . . and only on the fourth try. Man: So, well, Sh . . ., I mean Sharon. How are you? Woman: Not bad. And what was your name? Man: It's Ben, but everyone calls me B.J. And, uh, what do you do, Sh . . . Sharon? Woman: I'm a graduate student majoring in TESL. Man: Uh, TESL . . . What's that? Woman: It stands for teaching English as a second language. I want to teach English to non-native speakers overseas. Man: Oh, yeah. I'm pretty good at that English grammar. You know, verbs and adjectives, and uh . . . Hey, that's sound really exciting. And do you need some type of specific degree or experience to do that? I mean could I do something like that? Woman: Well, most employers overseas are looking for someone who has at least a Bachelor's degree and one or two years of experience. [Oh!] And what do you do? Are you a student on campus?

Man: Yeah, but, uh . . . I guess I'm mulling over the idea of going into accounting or international business, but I guess I'm leaning now towards a degree in marketing. Woman: Oh, uh, . . . Well, I have to run. I have a class in ten minutes. Man: Oh, okay. And, uh, by the way, there's this, uh, dance on campus at the student center tonight, and I was wondering if you'd . . . you know . . . like to come along. Woman: Oh really? Well, perhaps . . . . Man: Okay, well, bye. Key Vocabulary

on the tip of one's tongue (idiom): to be at the point of remembering something - Oh, what is her name again? It's on the tip of my tongue, but I just can't remember it.

memorable (adjective): worth remembering - College graduation was a real memorable experience for me.

major (verb, also noun): have as your main field of study - My brother wants to major in education.

overseas (adverb): in a foreign country - My family lived overseas for several years.

mull over (verb): think over - My brother wants to mull over different job offers before he makes a decision.

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News Reporter: Hello. This is Charles Richards from Channel 7 News, and we're down here, uh, at the City Mall, interviewing people on how they celebrate Christmas. And, uh, hi young lady. What is your name? Young Girl: Elizabeth Carter. News Reporter: And, uh, Elizabeth, uh. How does your family celebrate Christmas? Young Girl: We go sledding, and we go over to my grandparents' house and have dinner with them. News Reporter: Well, that is great, and let me ask this young man. Hi, what is your name? [Johnny.] And Johnny, how old are you? Johnny: Five. News Reporter: And, uh, does your family eat anything particular for Christmas? Johnny: Turkey . . . News Reporter: And what does Christmas mean to you? Young Girl: Going to my grandma's and making their breakfast. News Reporter: Going to grandma's and making breakfast. And let me ask another young man. Hi, what is your name? [Steven.] Okay, and Steven, what does Christmas mean to you? Steven: Giving but not expecting to get. News Reporter: Now, that's kind of hard for a young man like yourself. What does that mean: Giving by not expecting? Steven: Well, one thing that we do is secret giving. News Reporter: Secret giving? Now how does that work in your family? Steven: We sneak up to the porch of somebody that we want to give to, we put the gift that we want to give to them, ring the doorbell, and hide. News Reporter: Ring the doorbell and hide? Uh, so you're not expecting something; you just want to be generous to someone else. Is that right? Steven: Yeah. That's correct. News Reporter: And let's interview one more. And, uh, how do you celebrate Christmas? What is the best thing about Christmas and what does it mean to you?

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Child: It means getting off from school! News Reporter: Getting off from school?! Do you all feel that way? Group of Children: Yeah!! Young Girl: Because I hate homework. News Reporter: Yeah. Well, that all here from the City Mall. Channel 7 reporting.

Key Vocabulary

sledding (noun): the activity or sport of ridding on a sled, usually in snow - I took the kids sledding yesterday down a real fun hill, and we had a great time.

particular (adjective): special or specific - Our family doesn't do anything particular on Christmas morning besides opening up gifts.

sneak (verb): to advance or approach without being seen - My son often tries to sneak into the kitchen and take a cookie when no one is watching.

hide (verb): to prevent from being seen or discovered - Parents often hide their children's Christmas presents to keep them a secret.

generous (adjective): willing to give or share freely - People are often very generous around the holiday season and donate.

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Nate: Hey Phil: Have you ever been to a Japanese public bath? I hear it's quite an experience. Phil: Yes, and what an experience. Nate: What do you mean? Phil: Well, it's nothing like visiting a swimming pool in the States. Nate: Well, what do you do when you go to a public bath? Phil: First, you take off your shoes before you enter. Nate: Okay. Phil: Then, you pay an entrance fee to the man or woman at the front counter. [Um-huh]. Next, you get undressed in the dressing room. And I was very surprised . . . and a little embarrassed to see that the woman who took my money was sitting on aplatform where she had a clear view of the men's side of the dressing room. [Really?] This allows the workers to keep an eye on the patrons' belongings while they are in the bath. Nate: Wow. And do you wear a bathing suit or something? Phil: Oh no! You don't wear anything. Then you go into the main bathing area and wash your body while sitting on a small stool about 40 centimeters high. Nate: On a stool!? Phil: Yeah. It was really hard getting used to bathing in that position. Sometimes, even, people wash each other's backs. Nate: Oh really. So, what do you do after that? Phil: Well, after you've rinsed off all the soap, they usually have two or three large baths where you can soak for a while. Nate: Do you actually share the bath with other people? Phil: Yeah. Traditionally, the bath played an important role in the community. It gave neighbors an opportunity to socialize while bathing. Nate: Huh. Interesting. Phil: When you're all done bathing, people relax in the dressing room by watching TV, drinking tea or juice, or talking to friends. It's quite an experience.

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Key Vocabulary

platform (noun): a raised area where you can sit - The members of the local government were sitting on a platform overlooking the audience.

clear (adjective): not blocked or covered - Once the table is clear of dishes, we will start the game.

patron (noun): customer or visitor - Patrons are asked not to eat or drink in the art gallery.

belongings (noun): possessions - Please do not leave your belongings unattended while in the amusement park.

stool (noun): a small chair often made of wood or plastic - The young boy sat on a stool as he shined my shoes.

rinse (off) (phrasal verb): remove soap or dirt from something using water - Please rinse off before you get in the swimming pool.

soak (soak): leave something in water or other liquid for a period of time - I enjoy soaking in the tub to relax and forget about the worries of the day.

socialize (verb): to talk to or associate with others in a friendly manner - I'm having a pool party this weekend as a way of socializing with some of new neighbors.

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Beautician: Hi. How can we help you today? Customer: Yeah. I'd like to get my hair trimmed a little. Nothingfancy. Just a basic trim. Beautician: Well, can we interest you in today's special? Customer: Um . . . No . . . Beautician: We'll shampoo, cut, and style your hair for one unbelievable low price of $9.99 (nine ninety-nine). Plus, we'll give you a clean shave and a back massage to help you relax. Customer: We'll I don't know. I don't have much time, and . . . Beautician: Best service in town! Customer: Okay, I'll have the complete service today, but as I said before, I just want to get my hair trimmed. A little off the top and sides. That's all. I mean, that's all. Beautician: No problem. Relax. You're in good hands. Okay, here we go. Now, how does this thing work? Customer: Huh? Wait. You know what you're doing, right? Beautician: Relax, sir, relax. I've been doing this for ten [cough] [Ten what?] Sit back and relax. So, what do you do for a living? Customer: I'm a lawyer, specializing in workplace accidents, and I'm in town for an interview for a new job, and . . . Beautician: Oops.

Customer: What do you mean oops. Hey, can I see a mirror? Beautician: Nothing to worry about, sir. Relax. I'm just making someadjustments to the hair trimmer. There we are. Okay . . . Customer: Ouch. That hurt. That really hurt! What are you doing? Beautician: Nothing to worry about, sir. Relax. Customer: That's what you just said a minute ago, and look at all of my hair on the floor. How much are you really cutting off? And where's a mirror? Beautician: Oh. And time for the shampoo. Just lean back, and we'll wash your hair away. Customer: You mean what's left of it? Beautician: Relax. [Your favorite word . . .] Relax. Customer: Hey, you got shampoo in my eyes. I can't see. Where's the towel? Beautician: Relax, sir, relax. I'm almost finished. Customer: Yeah, just wait til I get finished with you! Beautician: Okay, now let's dry your hair, put a little styling jell in it, and now style it with a blow dryer, and brush. voila! Customer: Hey, what happened to my hair? You butchered it! And what's left of my hair turned purple. What kind of prank are you trying to pull here anyway? Are you even a licensed beautician?

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Beautician: Well, sir. We offer a money-back guarantee on all our work, so if you're not completely satisfied . . . Customer: Satisfied? I'm anything but satisfied. I want to talk to the manager . . . now! Beautician: I'm sorry, but he's on vacation, and he left me in charge, so if you . . . Customer: How in the world am I supposed to go to my job interview looking like this? Forget it, forget it. Is there anyplace in this town that can give a decenthaircut and fix this damage? Beautician: Well, my brother works next door, and he offers a complete package for . . . . Customer: I know, nine, ninety-nine. I've had it. Forget I even asked. Key Vocabulary

Huh? (interjection): What?, showing slight surprise - Huh? Did you say $50 for a simple hair cut?

adjustments (noun): small changes or modifications - Please wait a minute. I need to make a few adjustments to the equipment before we begin.

lean back (also lean forward) (verb): to move the body backwards and down, recline - Don't lean back too far in your chair, or you'll tip it over.

voila (interjection): an expression to indicate satisfied completion - Finally, you should bake the cake for 20 minutes, and voila, you've made your first cake.

trim (verb): cut just a little off - He got his hair trimmed yesterday at a beauty salon.

butcher (verb): to kill, and in this case, to cut without care - My brother tried to cut his own hair with school scissors and without a mirror, and he really butchered it badly.

fancy (adjective): not plain, elaborate - She has a real fancy perm.

massage (noun): the action of rubbing parts of the body to help with relaxation (also a verb) - Some beauty salons give you a shoulder massage after they cut your hair.

in charge (adjective): in control - She is in charge of the new project. decent (adjective): nice, acceptable, proper - The students did a decent job on the class presentation.

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Stuart: Amy. So, how are you doing? Amy: Oh, hi Stuart. School is so crazy these days, and when I'm not at school, I'm at work. Stuart: Hey, listen. I'm getting together with Sara and Paul tonight, and a few of our other friends are going to join us. [Oh.] And, we're . . . well, we're going out to eat and then catch a movie. Why don't you come with us? Amy: Hey, I'd love to, but I have to cram for a test tomorrow. Stuart: Ah, come on. We're planning on having dinner around 6:30 and then seeing a movie at 7:30. We should be home by 10:30 . . . 11:30 at the latest. I mean you're always saying that you don't have any friends . . . and that your love life . . . well, that you don't have one. Come on! Amy: I . . . I don't think I'd better. I haven't been feeling well lately. Stuart: Yeah, because you study too much. Well, we'll have a blast. Come on! Relax. [Well . . .] And it's Sara's birthday, too. And we're throwing her a small birthday party after the movie. Come on. Best friends always stick together. Amy: Oh. Okay. Stuart: Great. I'll pick you up at 6:00. Amy: Okay. See you then, but I have to be back by 10:30. Stuart: Ah, 10:30 . . . Midnight. It's all the same. See you at 6:00.

Key Vocabulary

catch a movie (verb): watch - Let's catch a movie this afternoon after school is over. cram (verb): study hard - I had to cram all night for the final text in my biology class. blast (noun): fun time - Thanks for inviting me to the party yesterday. It was a real blast. throw a party (verb): have - My parents are throwing a big party for my brother who just got married. midnight (adverb): 12 o'clock at night, the middle of the night - I have to be back home by midnight. It's a family rule.

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Receptionist: Dr. Carter's Office. Ronald: Yes, I'd like to make an appointment to see Dr. Carter, please. Receptionist: Is this your first visit? Ronald: Yes it is. Receptionist: Okay. Could I have your name please? Ronald: Yes. My name is Ronald Schuller. Receptionist: And may I ask who referred you to our office? Ronald: Uh, I drove past your office yesterday. Receptionist: Okay. How about the day after tomorrow on Wednesday at 4:00 O'clock? Ronald: Uh. Do you happen to have an opening in the morning? I usually pick up my kids from school around that time. Receptionist: Okay. Um . . . how about Tuesday at 8:00 A.M. or Thursday at 8:15 A.M.? Ronald: Uh, do you have anything earlier, like 7:30? Receptionist: No. I'm sorry. Ronald: Well, in that case, Thursday would be fine. Receptionist: Okay. Could I have your phone number please? Ronald: It's 643-0547. Receptionist: Alright. And what's the nature of your visit? Ronald: Uh . . . Receptionist: Yes sir. Ronald: Well, to tell the truth, I fell from a ladder two days ago while painting my house, and I sprained my ankle when my foot landed in a paint can. I suffered a few scratches on my hands and knees, but I'm most concerned that the swelling in my ankle hasn't gone down yet. Receptionist: Well, did you put ice on it immediately after this happened? Ronald: Well yeah. I just filled the paint can with ice and . . . Receptionist: And so after you removed the paint can . . . Sir, sir, Mr. Schuller, are you still there? Ronald: Well that's part of the problem. Uh, the paint can is still on my foot. Receptionist: Look, Mr. Schuller. Please come in today. I don't think your case can wait.

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Key Vocabulary

refer someone or something (verb): directed or pointed to - My brother referred me to this doctor. - Please refer to page 30 in your textbook. You will find more information on heart disease on that page. happen (verb): have the chance or possibility of something - I think he happens to know a doctor who might be able to help you. Give him a call. nature (noun): purpose - What is the nature of your problem? sprain (verb): twist suddenly - I need to see a doctor today. I think I sprained knee when I slipped on the ice outside of my apartment. case (noun): special circumstances or situation - Wow. That looks like a bad cut. In this case, you'd better see a doctor and get stitches. That cut won't heal well by itself.

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Okay, everyone. I want to review the first two days of our travelitinerary for the trip. Okay, yeah, please take out the paper that I handed out earlier. Okay. Uh. First of all, we have been veryfortunate to have been able to purchase discount tickets to covermost of the transportation costs and scheduling (scheduled) activities. And I want to also thank the, uh, group of parents who, uh, worked very hard in order to, uh, raise funding, uh, through different businesses in the community. I really appreciate that. Uh, let's see. Okay, everyone should meet at the airport at 6:00 a.m. This will give you time to check in and get through security. Our plane departs at 9:00. Uh, our plane arrives in New York at 3:00 p.m, and we will take a bus from the airport to the hotel. We've been able to get great rates on this hotel because we're staying on a weekday instead of the weekend. In the morning, for any of you who like to get exercise, we will be meeting in the lobby around 6:00 a.m. to go jogging around Central Park for about 45 minutes, and we'll get back to the hotel about the time when the restaurant opens, so you'll enough time to grab a quick breakfast before we leave the hotel at 8:00. We'll be taking a ferry ride to Ellis Island and then to Liberty Island to visit the Statue of Liberty. I mean, this is something that you really can't miss, and later, we will go to Times Square where you can have lunch on your own for about an hour from about 1 to 2. Later in the afternoon, you have the choice of visiting the Empire State Building or the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Either one of these is . . . are great*, and we have some great, uh, group discounts. Uh, we will meet back at the hotel at 6:00 p.m., and we'll have dinner at a very nice Italian restaurant downtown, and then we'll catch an exciting broadway musical around 8:30 p.m. Uh, any questions?
Key Vocabulary depart (verb): leave - Do you know when the plane departs tomorrow? jog (verb): run at a slow speed (also, "go jogging") - I like to jog everyday after work. - My mom and dad go jogging together to get exercise. ferry (noun): a boat for carrying people and cars - They took a ferry to the beautiful island. catch (verb): watch - We wanted to catch the musical last night, but it was all sold out, so we caught a movie instead.

itinerary (noun): plan - I printed twenty copies of the trip itinerary for the students. fortunate (adjective): lucky - I think we are very fortunate to have this chance to travel. cover (verb): be enough money to pay for something - Be sure to bring enough extra money to cover your food expenses.

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Dad: Hey. Uh, what are you doing home this weekend? I thought classes didn't end until next week. Daughter: Hi Dad. I love you. Dad: Ah, the three magic words: I NEED HELP! I've heard those before. Daughter: Uh, Well, we'd better sit down. Dad: Uh, this doesn't sound good. Daughter: Well, first of all . . . hey, is that painting on the wall new? Dad: No, no, no, no, no. Let's get back to the conversation now. Daughter: Okay, first of all, I am failing all of my classes, I lost my job, I wrecked my car, I mean, your car last week. It's at the bottom of the lake . . . I think, and the laptop I borrowed from you . . . well, it was in the backseat of the car. That's all of the good news. Dad: Uh, wait . . . Daughter: Dad. You're not saying anything . . . Dad: Okay. Now, what's the bad news? Daughter: Well, I just found out that my old boyfriend was a member of a gang; he says that he and 20 of his friends are gonna come over here to talk to you about what you posted on their Facebook page. Dad: I don't even know how to use Facebook! Daughter: Well, you do now. I have to go. I'd rather not be here in about 20 minutes. Love you. Bye. Dad: Ugh!!

Key Vocabulary

had better (modal of advice): similar to "should," but somewhat stronger. There could be negative consequences if the advice or suggestion is not followed. - You'd better see a doctor before your condition takes a turn for the worse. fail (verb): not pass - You will fail the test if you don't sit down and study.

wreck (verb; also noun): crash or destroy - You're going to wreck your parents' car if you keep driving like this. post (verb): put up something in writing on a wall or online - I posted a funny message on her Facebook page this morning.

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Man: Yes, I'd like to report a theft. Police Officer: Okay. Can you tell me exactly what happened. Man: Well, I was walking home from work two days ago, enjoying the nature all around me . . . the birds, the frogs, the flowing stream . . . [Okay, Okay] when this woman knocked me right off my feet, grabbed my stuff, and ran off through the trees. [Hmm]. I was so surprised by the ordeal that I didn't go after her. Police Officer: Yeah. Can you describe the woman for me? Man: Yeah. He was about a hundred and ninety centimeters tall . . . Police Officer: Wait. You said a woman robbed you. Man: Well, I'm not really sure. [Hmm]. You see, the person was wearing a white and black polka dot dress, a light red sweater over it, and she . . . or he . . . was wearing a pair of basketball shoes. Police Officer: Humm. What else can you tell me? Man: Okay. Like I said, the person was about 190 centimeters tall, heavy build, with long wavy hair. She . . . or he . . . was probably in his or her late 30's. I didn't get a good look at the person's face, but well ... uh .... Police Officer: What? Was there something else? Man: Well, the person . . . had a beard. Police Officer: Ah! What was, uh, taken . . . exactly? Man: Well, just my left shoe. Bizarre, isn't it? Police Officer: Ah. The "bearded woman" has struck again! Man: The "bearded woman"? Police Officer: Yeah. It's this man who dresses up like a woman and, for some unknown reason, removes the left shoe from his victims. He's really quite harmless, though, and he usually returns the shoe to the crime scene a couple of days later. Man: Hey, he can keep my shoe, and I'll just take off my left shoe every time I walk through the park.

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Employee: Hello. Can I take your order? Customer: Yes. I'd like a largepepperoni pizza with mushrooms and green peppers. Employee: Would you like anything else? Customer: Well, wait. Uh, can I make that a half-and-half pizza? Employee: Sure. What would you like on each half? Customer: Uh, what toppings do you have? Employee: Well, we have Italian sausage, ham, mushrooms, onions, pineapple, black olives, green peppers, bacon, tomatoes, shrimp, clams, and squid. Customer: Shrimp, clams, and squid!? What kind of pizza is that? Employee: Uh, the manager spent some time overseas [Oh.], and thinks his new seafood pizza will be a hit with customers, but to be honest, the "Swimmer's Special," as he calls it, is an acquired taste. Customer: Uh, I'll pass on the "Sink or Swim" special, but I'll have pepperoni and mushrooms on one half and green peppers and Italian sausage on the other. Oh, and could I get extra cheese on that pizza? Employee: Alright. Would you care for any bread sticks or beverage with your order? [Well . . . I don't know.] Actually, we have a Friday night special going on right now [Oh!], and if you order any large pizza and drink, we'll throw in a free order of bread sticks, plus a three dollar coupon for use with your next pizza order. Customer: Huh, sure, why not. And what drink comes with the pizza? Employee: Either apple or orange juice. Customer: I'll take orange juice. Employee: Okay. Your total comes to fifteen nineteen, which includes tax. [Okay.] And could I have your name? Customer: Uh, yeah, Jay Han. Employee: Huh? Did you say "Jay Hand"? Customer: No, it's "Han." Actually, it's a Korean name, but many people have difficulty making it out. Hey, maybe I SHOULD change my name to "Hand." Employee: Ah, names are important; don't change it. [Okay.] Oh, and your address and telephone number?

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Customer: It's 1340 South 16 East, and the phone number is 340-1870 (three-four-zero-eighteen, seventy). Employee: Okay. Let me repeat your order. A large half-and-half pizza. [Okay.] One half with pepperoni [Yeah.] and mushrooms and the other with Italian sausage and green peppers. [Yeah.] Orange juice and your free order of bread sticks. Jan "Han," not "Hand," [Yeah, that's right.] at 1340 South 16 East, 340-1817. Is that correct? Customer: Everything except for the phone number. It's 1870, not 1817. Employee: Alright. Thanks for your order. It should arrive at your doorstep in 30 minutes or less, or you'll receive a free small pizza with your next order. Customer: Great. Thanks. Key Vocabulary

pepperoni (noun): a pork and beef sausage, sliced thinly for pizza - My students ordered a pepperoni pizza for lunch.

be a hit (verb): be popular - Ordering pizza for the party was a hit.

care for (verb): have a preference or liking for something - Would you care for anything else today?

acquired taste (expression): a taste that takes time to get used to - Some people say that learning to like sushi is an acquired taste.

beverage (noun): drink - What kinds of beverages do you want to serve at the party?

throw in (verb): add - That pizza shop always throws in a free drink with every order.

coupon (noun): a certificate used to receive money off on purchases - Let's use the pizza coupon that came in the mail.

make something out (idiom): understand or figure out - I couldn't make out what the customer ordered because of the poor telephone connection.

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Carpet: Hey you! This is your carpet speaking. Helllooo! Hey, I take a real beating from you and your family everyday. The kids track mud all over me, the dog leaves a bunch of fur balls everywhere. You spilt coffee the other day while entertaining guests, and your husband left a trail of potato chip crumbs from the sofa to the kitchen last night while watching the football game. Don't you think it's about time to give me a good cleaning? Now pick up that phone and call Master Cleaners now. I see them on the TV all the time. They'll clean any three rooms for $29.95, and any connecting hall is free. Plus, they'll throw in a free bottle of their amazing stain remover. And if you call now, you'll receive a 15% discount off their already low prices. So come on! Give them a call at 637-5001, and make life for me a little easier. Uh, nice doggie, nice doggie . . .

Key Vocabulary

track (verb): bring inside something like dirt on your shoes - The students tracked mud all over the hallways because it was raining outside.

bunch (noun): a large amount - Tim gave his girlfriend a bunch of roses for her birthday..

crumbs (noun): very small pieces of food - Ants seem to be able to locate the smallest crumbs of food.

throw in (verb): add, provide, include - If you buy the sofa, we'll throw in this coffee table.

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Sales Associate: Hi. Can I help you with anything today? Customer: Yeah. I need some new running shoes. Sales Associate: Okay, what type of running are you doing? I mean are you preparing for a road race or do you need some trail shoes? We have them all. Customer: I need some street shoes, and I need them to make me run fast, I mean real, real fast. Sales Associate: Well, sir, how fast you run depends on many things and . . . Customer: But, you don't understand. You see, I've been dating this woman, and well, I kind of told her that I'm a pretty good runner, and uh . . . Sales Associate: Well, how much, how much DO you run? 10Ks, marathons? What exactly are you doing? Customer: Well, I don't really run. I mean I run out to get the newspaper in the morning. Listen, I twisted the truth a little. Sales Associate:Um, yeah, I's say.Well, how much does she run? Customer: Uh, she's completed, I think, about 20 marathons, all under three hours. Sales Associate: Ah, man, you're toast. You're in some serious hot water. The only good new shoes will do for you is to kick yourself for not having been honest with her. Just fess up with her. Customer: Ah, ah, I think I have a leg cramp coming on. Believable? Sales Associate: Forget it. She won't buy that story. Just be frank with her and apologize. She may or may not accept your apology, but at least you can look at yourself in the mirror and recognize that you told the truth. That way, you can live with yourself another day. Customer: Yeah. I realize that now. Sales Associate: Hey, here's one idea. Tell her the truth and she what she says. If she forgives you and you really want to start running, then I suggest signing up for the 5K race we are sponsoring next month. This can get you started on a new path to fitness and a positive relationship. Customer: And if she doesn't forgive me? Sales Associate: Well, that's just the consequence of not telling the truth.

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Key Vocabulary

complete (verb): finish - My sister completed the marathon in under four hours.

be toast (idiom): be in trouble - You're toast if you don't apologize to your wife.

be in hot water (idiom): be in trouble - Lauren is going to be in hot water if she doesn't clean the house before the wedding reception.

fess up (idiom): admit a mistake - Unless you fess up to the teacher about cheating, she will never believe you in the future, and you will fail the class.

buy (a story) (idiom): believe something that someone tells you - My parents bought my story. They think that I am going to spend the night at my friend's house.

be frank (verb): be honest and tell the truth - Why weren't you frank with your boss about the job? It always pays to be honest.

live with oneself (idiom): accept a mistake or difficult situation - How can he live with himself? He stole money from the company, but he was justified in doing so.

sponsor (verb): support someone or something like a sports event with money or other goods - We are looking for companies to sponsor the race. Would you be interested in doing so?

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Son: Dad. Can I go outside to play? Dad: Well, did you get you Saturday's work done? Son: Ah, Dad. Do I have to? Dad: Well, you know the rules. No playing until the work is done. Son: So, what is my work? Dad: Well, first you have to clean the bathroom including the toilet. And don't forget to scrub the bathtub. Son: No, I want to do the family room. Dad: Well, okay, but you have to vacuum the family room and the hall, and be sure to dust everything. Oh, and don't forget to wipe the walls and clean thebaseboards. [Okay.] And after that. [Oh, no.] Next, sweep and mop the kitchen floor and be sure to polish the table in the living room. Son: Okay. Okay. Dad: And make your bed and pick up all your toys and put them away. And . . . Son: More? Dad: Yeah. And then, how about going out for lunch and getting a big milk shake, but you probably don't want to do that. Son: No, No. I want to.

Dad: Okay. While you're doing your work, I'll be out in the yard raking leaves and pulling weeds.

Key Vocabulary

scrub (verb): clean thoroughly by rubbing hard - You'll need to scrub really hard to remove that stain from the table.

dust (verb): to remove small pieces of dirt - Please dust all the furniture in the front room.

baseboards (noun): a piece of wood or molding attached along the bottom of a wall where it touches the floor; also called "skirting board" in Britain and Australia - We need to remove the baseboards to put down new tile on the floor.

sweep (verb): to clean a floor by using a broom or brush to collect dirt - Be sure to sweep the floor before you mop it.

rake (verb): to gather with a garden tool with a row of plastic or metal teeth at the head - I spent all yesterday raking the leaves in my backyard.

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Hello and thank you for calling Riverview Cinemas, the city'sfinest theaters with stadium seating. Box office opens 45 minutes before show time. Movies currently playing include:Return to Mars II, rated PG 13with a run time of 1 hour 53 minutes, showing at 12:00, 2:15, 5:00, and 7:20; Road Trip. ratedR, a run time of 1 hour 49 minutes at 11:15, 1:20, 3:45, and 6:05; Go for the Gold, rated PG. Run time, 1 hour 37 minutes. Playing at 11:50, 2:00, 4:15, and 6:30, and Friends Forever, rated G, at 12:10, 2:00, 3:50, 6:15, and 8:30. Run time, 1 hour 32 minutes. These times are valid through the 17th of the month. Matinee tickets are $2.00 before 4:00 p.m. for all patrons. Regular tickets are $6.00 for adults, $2.50 for children 3-11, and $4.50 for ages 12-17. Seniors are only a buck fifty. All tickets on Tuesdays are $2.00. You can also purchasetickets online. No wait, no lines. We're located downtown on 1313 South 260 East, kitty-corner the Richards Science Museum. Visit our website for up-to-date information. Key Vocabulary

finest (adjective): best, superior quality - This is the finest theater you will find in all of the city. PG 13 (adjective): parental guidance strongly suggested for children under 13. Some material might be inappropriate for these children - The movie is rated PG 13 for violence. run time (noun): the length of time a movie plays - Why don't you can the theater and ask about the run time of the movie, so I know when to pick you up after it's over. R (adjective): restricted, no one under 17 without a parent or guardian - We don't allow are kids to watch Rrated movies because they often contain strong language. G (adjective): general audience - This movie is entertaining for all ages, and it's rated G. valid (adjective): applicable, relevant, current

- These movie coupons are valid until the end of the month.

patrons (noun): customers or attendees - Patrons are not permitted to bring their own drink and food into the movie theater. senior (noun): an older person - Senior citizens receive discounts on movie tickets. buck (noun): informal for dollar - Some popcorn and a drink only cost a few bucks at that movie theater. purchase (verb): buy - Let's purchase the movie tickets online so we don't have to wait in line at the theater. kitty-corner (adjective): slanted diagonally across two corners of a street intersection - The movie theater is kitty-corner the post office on First Street. up-to-date (adjective): current or latest - I always check movie listings online for the most up-to-date information about show times and ticket prices.

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Dean: Hey, man. What's up? Tod: Ah, first of all, I put a buck in the vending machine for a seventy-five cent candy bar, and the thing got stuck here in the machine. Then, I pressed the change button [Ah, man] , and nothing happened. [Wow!] Nothing came out. The dumb thing still owes me a quarter. Dean: Well, did you talk to the man at the snack bar to see if he could refund your money? Tod: Yeah, I tried that, but he said he didn't own the machine, and I'd have to call the phone number on the machine. Dean: What a bummer. Tod: Hey, I have an idea. [What?] Why don't we rock the machine back and forth until the candy bar falls? Dean: Nothing doing. I don't want to be responsible for breaking the thing, and besides, someone might call the cops. Tod: Ah, don't worry. I've done it before. Tod: Oh well. Hey, hey, tough luck. Hey, here, take my candy bar. [You mean?] Yeah, the machine and I hit it off earlier today.

Key Vocabulary

buck (noun): informal for dollar - Could I borrow a buck to buy a drink from the snack bar? vending machine (noun): a machine from which you can buy items like candy or drinks - In some places, you can find a vending machine on almost every street corner. get stuck (verb): unable to move - I got stuck in traffic on the way home from work. refund (verb; also a noun): give someone their money back - That store will refund your money if there is a problem with the item you buy. bummer (noun): a disappointing situation - It was a real bummer that you lost your last buck in that vending machine. rock (verb): move back and forth - I sometimes rock the baby when he can't sleep. nothing doing (noun): no way, used when refusing something - Are you asking me to loan you more money? Nothing doing! tough luck (noun): an expression of sympathy about a problem - Did she really break your date? Tough luck. hit it off (verb): like someone as soon as you meet - The man at the store and I hit it off the first time I entered, and now he always gives me discounts on certain purchases.

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Merchant: Well hi there. What are you looking for today? Customer: Uh, I'm just looking. Merchant: Well, how about a ring for someone special? Customer: There IS no one special. Merchant: Well, take a look at this CD player. A great bargain today only. Customer: Nah. I already have one, plus the handle is cracked. Merchant: Okay. Well what about this genuine leather jacket? It would look great on you. Customer: Hum. Let me take a look at it. Merchant: Sure. Customer: Umm. There are stains on the sleeves. I'll pass. Merchant: Well okay. Well, wouldn't you like to walk home with some of these great records? Some of the best hits from the 1960's. Customer: Yeah, let's see. [Yeah] Now here's something I'd . . . Ah, these records are scratched. Merchant: [Laughter] Just in a couple places. Listen. I'll sell you these ten records for fifty dollars. A steal! Customer: Whoa! They're way too expensive. I'll give you twenty-five bucks for them. Merchant: Ah, come on. I can't charge you less than thirty dollars and break even. Customer: Well, that guy over there is selling similar records for a much better price [Ah!], so thanks anyway. Merchant: Wait, wait, wait, wait. You drive a hard bargain. Twenty-eight dollars, and that's my final offer. Customer: Huh . . . I'll think about it. Merchant: Wait, wait, wait, wait. Listen. I'll even throw in this vase. Customer: Now what am I going to do with a vase? Merchant: Well, you can give it to that someone special when you find her. . . and this ring would look great with it. Customer: Oh, I'll stick with the records.

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Key Vocabulary

steal (noun): a great bargain - For only $10, that radio is a steal.

buck (noun): one dollar (informal) - Hey. Can you loan me a few bucks until the end of the week?

break even (verb): end up with no profit or loss at the end of some business activity - Business was good yesterday at the store, but in the end, we barely broke even.

drive a hard bargain (idiom): expect a lot for what you pay for - She drives a hard bargain whenever she sells clothing in the outside marketplace.

throw in (phrasal verb): add or include - I'll buy the ring if you throw in the necklace too.

stick with (phrasal verb): stay with, not changing to something else - Although that is a nice jacket, I think I'll stick with the one a bought yesterday. I don't need two jackets.

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Passenger: Hey Taxi! Ah great. Thanks for pulling over. Driver: Where to? Passenger: Well, I'm going to the National Museum of Art, and . . . . Driver: Sure. Hop in. No problem. Hang on! Passenger: Uh. Excuse me. How long does it take to get there? Driver: Well, that all depends on the traffic, but it shouldn't take more than twenty minutes for the average driver. [Oh]. And I'm not average. I have driving down to an art, so we should be able tocruise through traffic and get there in less than twelve minutes. Passenger: Okay. Uh, sorry for asking [Yeah?], but do you have any idea how much the fare will be? Driver: Oh, it shouldn't be more than 18 dollars . . . not including a . . . uh-hum . . . a tip of course. Passenger: Oh, and by the way, do you know what time the museum closes? Driver: Well, I would guess around 6:00 O'clock. Passenger: Uh, do you have the time? Driver: Yeah. It's half past four. [Thanks] Uh, this IS your first time to the city, right? Passenger: Yeah. How did you know? Driver: Well, you can tell tourists from a mile away in this city because they walk down the street looking straight up at theskyscrapers. Passenger: Was it that obvious? Driver: Well . . . Passenger: Oh, before I forget, can you recommend any good restaurants downtown that offer meals at a reasonable price? Driver: Umm . . . Well, the Mexican restaurant, La Fajita, is fantastic. [Oh] It's not as inexpensive as other places I know, but the decor is very authentic, [Okay] and the portions are larger than most places I've been to. Passenger: Sounds great! How do I get there from the museum?

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Driver: Well, you can catch the subway right outside the museum. There are buses that run that way, but you would have to transfer a couple of times. And there are taxis too, but they don't run by the museum that often. Passenger: Okay. Thanks. Key Vocabulary

pull over (verb): to stop a vehicle to the side of the road - We pulled over so we could rest and enjoy the scenic view.

down to an art (verb): to learn something very well - My brother has skiing down to an art.

cruise (verb): to drive at a moderate speed, often leisurely or aimlessly - The football players cruised around the city after the big game.

do you have the time (verb): "Do you know what time it is?" - Excuse me. Do you happen to have the time?

skyscrapers (noun): very tall city buildings - The city has decided to build a new skyscraper in the downtown area.

offer (verb): to provide or furnish - This travel agency is offering discount travel tickets to students until the end of the week.

reasonable (adjective): fair, not excessive or severe - The prices at that department store are very reasonable.

fantastic (adjective): super, wonderful, unbelievably great - The musical last night was fantastic.

decor (noun): the indoor furnishings of a building or home - The hotel's decor was designed by a local decorator.

authentic (adjective): real, not counterfeited - The teacher create a very authentic classroom atmosphere for her students.

portions(noun): an individual amount of food - The portions were so large that we couldn't finish the meal.

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Police Officer: Okay. May I see your driver's license please? Driver: What? Did I do anything wrong? Police Officer: License, please. And your car registration. Driver: Oh, yeah. It's here somewhere in the glove compartment. Yeah, here it is. Police Officer: Sir, did you realize you were speeding in a school zone? Driver: What? No, I didn't, but that's probably because my odometer is broken, I mean, malfunctioning. Police Officer: Yes, you were going 50 miles per hour in a 20 miles per hour zone. And [What?] AND, you failed to come to a complete stop at the intersection back there. Driver: Rolling stops don't count? Police Officer: And, one of your break lights is out, [Huh?], you're not wearing a seat belt, AND your driver's license expired six months ago. Driver: And your name is . . . . Officer Smith? Hey, are you related to the Smiths in town? My wife's cousin's husband (I think his name is Fred) works for the police department here. Or was that the fire department. Anyway, I thought you might be good pals, and you know . . . Police Officer: Hey, are you trying to influence an officer? I could have this carimpounded right now because of these infractions. Driver: No, of course not. Police Officer: Okay, then. Here's your ticket. You can either appear in court to pay the fine or mail it in. Have a nice day. Driver: Do you take cash?

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Key Vocabulary

glove compartment (noun): a small space, usually on the dashboard of the car, used for storage - People usually keep the car's registration and other small items in the glove compartment.

zone (noun): area - You cannot park your car in this zone outside the airport.

odometer (noun): a meter that measures speed and distance traveled - Check your odometer. I think you're speeding.

malfunction(verb): fail to perform properly - If any part of your car malfunctions during the warranty period, just take it back to the car dealership.

intersection (noun): the place where two or more roads cross each other - It looks like the traffic light at the intersection is malfunctioning and is not changing from stop to go.

pal (noun): a close friend - He went for a drive with some of his high school pals.

impound (verb): to take or seize by legal authority - The police impounded the man's car because it was involved in a crime.

infractions (noun): minor crimes or violations against the law - Because the man had been involved in numerous infractions with the law, his license was suspended for an entire year .

fine (noun): money that is paid as a penalty - She had to pay a one hundred dollar traffic fine for running a red light.

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Paul: So, what do you want to watch on TV tonight? Brenda: Well, what's on? Brenda: Well, hmm. There is a reality show on at 7:00 on channel 5. Paul: Nah, you know I don't like reality shows. I mean, they usually show people doing crazy things like, you know, eating live fish or swimming in a pool full of snakes. I don't get into that. Brenda: Okay. Well, how about watching a documentary on the life of panda bears in the wild? Paul: Personally, I'd rather watch something with a little bit more action andsuspense. Brenda: Well, then. Ah, here's something. Do you want to watch a rerun of Star Wars? Paul: Nah, I've seen it a zillion times. I'd like to see something different. Brenda: Okay, let's see here. Oh, how about this? On channel 2 at 9:00, there's a home improvement show about fixing anything around the house. We do have a few things that you could repair in the bathroom . . . Paul: Fixing things? Uh, boy, I'm beat. I think I'm going to hit the sack. Brenda: You're going to bed? Paul: Yeah. I have to get up early tomorrow . . . Brenda: . . . and then you're going to fix the bathroom? Paul: Good night. Brenda: Okay. Too bad, though. There's a basketball game on right now, but . . . but I guess you can catch the score in tomorrow's newspaper. Paul: Oh, okay. I'll stay up and keep you company while I . . . I mean, you . . . I mean, WE watch the game. Brenda: I thought you'd change your mind. I'll get the popcorn.

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Key Vocabulary

get into something (verb): be interested in something - I didn't think the kids would get into watching that nature program, but they loved it

documentary (noun): a television program that gives facts on a person, place, or thing - Hurry. Switch the channels. I don't want to miss the documentary on space travel.

suspense (noun): a feeling of excitement about what will happen next - She liked the movie because it was full of suspense from beginning to end.

rerun (noun): a TV program that is shown over again - This channel usually shows reruns of programs from the 1960s late in the evening.

zillion (noun): a very large number - Sometimes, kids don't mind watching the some TV cartoons a zillion times.

improvement (noun): a change that makes something better - There are a number of improvements you can make on your writing assignment. Read it again and see what you can do.

beat (adjective): very tired - I was so beat last night that I feel asleep watching TV.

hit the sack: go to sleep - He hit the sack early because he has to work in the morning.

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Pete: Hey Markus. I have a question I'd like to ask you. Markus: Yes. Go ahead. Pete: Well, I'm thinking about going to Germany this summer [Great!], and I need some advice. You're the best person I know to answer my questions since you're German. Markus: Thank you. What do you want to know? Pete: Well, don't laugh, but I met this really nice woman through an online musicmailing list, you know, a discussion group on the Internet [laughter]. I need some advice. You see, Claudia, . . . Markus: Okay. So it's Claudia, oh? Pete: Yeah, yeah. See, she invited me to spend two weeks in Germany [Hum]. And well, I told here I had studied a little bit about the country and language [Hum], and she's kind of expecting that I know more than I really do. Markus: Hum. You're really in hot water now! Pete: Yeah. I think so. Markus: Well, what do you want to know? Pete: Well, she's planning on introducing me to her parents. Markus: Hey. Sounds kind of serious. Pete: It isn't, at least I think it isn't. Anyway, what should you do when you greet someone for the first time in Germany? Markus: Well, it depends upon your relationship with the person. Now, speaking of your girlfriend, Claudia, . . . . Pete: Hey, I didn't say she was my girlfriend. Markus: Ah, okay, okay. Now if you're meeting someone formally for the first time, like Claudia's parents, you should make sure you arrive on time. Pete: Okay, so arrive on time. Uh, what about common greetings? Markus: Well, Germans often shake hands, and they use the person's family name, unless they're really close friends. Pete: Okay, what about with Claudia? I'm not sure what I should do in her case.

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Markus: Ah. You can call her Claudia [Okay], shake hands, and why don't you take her some flowers? Pete: Oh, how do you say "Nice to meet you" anyway? Markus: Oh, "Ich freue mich, Sie kennenzulernen." Pete: "Ich freu me senselen. . ? " Markus: Uhhh. Not exactly. "Ich freue mich, Sie kennenzulernen" [Uhhh]. Markus: Humm. Honestly, I think you need to take a crash course in German before you leave. Claudia might think you're speaking Chinese or something if you don't. Key Vocabulary

mailing list (noun): a list of people who subscribe or join a mailing distribution on a particular topic - I'd like to join a mailing list on studying intercultural communication so I can exchange ideas with others.

to be in hot water: to be in a difficult situation or in trouble that might lead to punishment - The politician is in hot water because of the he lack of lack of cultural sensitivity to that group.

common (adjective): the same for many situations and people One common gesture of friendship is to greet someone with a firm handshake while looking them in the eye.

crash (adjective): quick, complete, short or intensive, often difficult She took crash course in Spanish before she left for Mexico, but I'm not sure if it helped.

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Daughter: Dad, can I go to a movie this week with Shannon? Father: Here. Try this. It's called a book. [Ah, Dad!] Moby Dick. An American classic. [Dad!] Okay. Let me look at the schedule here. Hmm. When are you thinking about going to the movie? Daughter: Uh, we're thinking about seeing a movie on Wednesday after school. Father: Well, that's not going to work. You have piano lessons after school and then you have to babysit for the neighbors until 9:00. Daughter: What about Monday? Father: Monday's out. You haven't practiced your clarinet at all . . . for an entire month, so you have to catch up on that. And, don't you have an essay due in your English class on Tuesday? Daughter: Oh, I forgot about that [Yeah], and anyway, I was going to finish that during first period at school. [Great. I've never heard of a three-sentence essay.] So, what about Tuesday? Father: Uh, you have soccer practice from 4:00 until 5:30, and after that, you have to do your homework. Daughter: Ah, you can help me with that. Oh, I forgot you don't know how to dogeometry. So, can I see the movie on Thursday? Father: Well, remember the science fair at school is on Friday, right? Is, is your project finished yet? Daughter: Umm, what about Friday night? I checked the paper, and there's a midnight showing. Father: Uh-uh. Forget that idea. Daughter: And Saturday? Father: Well, you have to do your chores in the morning before noon. [You can help me with that.] Oh no. And then, we have to clean out the garage. You said you'd help. [No, you volunteered me.] Well, that should only take a couple of hours. [Dad, you'reruining my social life.] And then, after that, we can go to the movie. Daughter: We? Father: Yeah, We. Mom and I and you and Shannon. Daughter: Uh, Dad, actually. We weren't planning on company. Father: Now, let me check the paper for showtimes. [The movie plays at three oh five, five, seven fifteen, and nine.] You already checked, I see.

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Daughter: Yeah. So is it okay? Can I go see the nine O'clock showing? Father: The five o'clock showing! Daughter: How about the seven o'clock showing? Father: And why are you so concerned about the show time? Daughter: Well, I don't know if I'll get all of my chores and homework done before then. Father: Sorry, but I want you to get to bed early that night, and so, I can drop you off at the movie theater about 4:30 so you'll have time to get tickets. Daughter: Uh, Dad. Can I have money for the movie? Father: Sure, just go into the family bank vault behind secret mirror in the hall and take a few hundred. [Dad!]. Look. I can only spare a few dollars, so you'll have to come up with the rest, okay? Daughter: Okay. Thanks, Dad.

Key Vocabulary

ruin (verb): destroy or damage - My dad asked me to babysit tonight, so that ruined my plans to go out with friends to a movie.

catch up (verb): reach a point where one should be - I need to catch up on my sleep. I've been very tired recently.

vault (noun): a room or space, often made of steel, for safekeeping valuables like money or important documents - The millionaire kept all his valuable coins, paintings, and jewelry in a secret vaultin his house.

geometry (noun): math of lines, points, and shapes - My daughter is taking geometry in junior high school now.

uh-uh (verb): informal for no - Uh-uh. I don't like to do housework at all.

spare (verb): give up carefully - My son needed money to fix his care, but I could only spare $200 since I didn't have much money either.

chores (noun): housework - If you do your chores quickly, I'll take you shopping.

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Woman: Hey. Have you been watching any of the World Cup soccer matches? Man: Well, I was watching until my favorite team was bounced out of the first round of play. I mean, they should have made all the way to the second round, but a whole series of events cost the team the opportunity to prove themselves on the world stage. Woman: What do you mean? Man: Well, in the first match, two of their star players were out with nagging injuries, so the rest of the players, unfortunately, just couldn't keep up with the opposing team. Woman: Well, that just life. I mean every team is going to have players out with injuries. Man: Yea, but that's beside the point. And, and then, in the second game, the refs made some terrible calls, allowing the opposing team to slip by with a victory. I mean, we were robbed on that one. The refs must have been walking in their sleep! Woman: But, didn't one of your own players accidentally kick the ball twice into his own goal? I mean that doesn't sound like a bad call to me. Man: That's just beside the POINT! Woman: Really? Man: And finally, our team was ahead in the final watch---I mean they were way out ahead until the other team rallied in the final three minutes of play to squeak out a victory. It was a total embarrassment for our team. Our team was booed. All I can say is that the sun must have been in our players' eyes . . . Woman: Uh, wasn't it a night game? Man: That's beside the point, too. You just not understanding anything I'm saying. Woman: So, who are you rooting for now, seeing that your team has been eliminated? Man: Ah, I can't watch any more soccer, so I've been following an online chess tournament. Woman: What?! Now, that has to be the most ridiculous reaction I have ever heard of. So, you're going to completely boycott the rest of the play just because your team got bounced out of the tournament? Man: Ah, forget it. You just don't understand.

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Key Vocabulary

be bounced out of (verb): be eliminated from - The team will be bounced out of of the tournament unless they improve their play.

nagging (adjective): a continual unpleasant feeling that lasts for a long time - I've had a nagging pain in my neck that just won't go away.

keep up with (verb): keep pace with or up to the level with - I never could keep up with with my brother when we ran races in high school.

slip by (verb): barely pass by - My sister was able to slip by the final runner near the end of the race.

rally (verb): come together for a common effort - The company employees rallied together to help a coworker who was suffering from cancer.

squeak out (verb): barely pass or win something - Unfortunately, our team wasn't able to squeak out a victory in the last two minutes of play.

root for (verb): show support for - The more fans that come to the event and root for the team, the better luck we might have.

boycott (verb): refuse to take part in something - Several countries boycotted the sporting event due to political issues.

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Man: Okay, Mr. Taylor, let's go ahead and begin. First of all, tell me about your last job. Mr. Taylor: Well, as stated on my resume, I worked for five years at Hi Tech Computers. Man: Okay. Hi Tech. And what do you know about computer networks and operating systems including DOS, Windows, Macintosh OS, and UNIX? Mr. Taylor: Umm . . . well . . . I did come in contact with computers every night at my last job. Man: Hum! . . . And how about web site authoring skills? [Oh]. We are looking for someone to create and manage our company's web site which would include the development, configuration, and use of CGI scripts. Mr. Taylor: Umm . . . uh, web page, web page. Huh . . . I don't think I've read that book, and I'm afraid I've never used those CGI things. Man: Huh?! And what about experience with Java or JavaScript? Mr. Taylor: Well . . . I think I've tried Java at a foreign coffee shop one time, if that's what you mean. Man: Okay, Mr. Taylor, I think I have ALL the information I need! Mr. Taylor: Oh, and I really like computer games. I play them everyday. Man: Right, right. Thanks Mr. Taylor. We'll be in touch. Key Vocabulary

DOS (noun): Disk Operating System - Fortunately, most computer users don't need to remember DOS commands to run today's computers.

UNIX (noun): a powerful operating system used, for example, in business or at universities This Website runs on UNIX server.

CGI (noun): Common Gateway Interface, a computer language commonly used for the Web - I use a CGI script to handle my online forums on my Website.

Java (noun): a computer language used to write programs for the Internet - Many webmasters use JAVA to design programs for use on their Websites.

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Where Did the English Language Come From?

This is Steve Ember. And this is Shirley Griffith with the VOA Special English program EXPLORATIONS. Today we present the first of two programs about the history of the English Language. More people are trying to learn English than any other language in the world. English is the language of political negotiations and international business. It has become the international language of science and medicine. International treaties say passenger airplane pilots must speak English. English is the major foreign language taught in most schools in South America and Europe. School children in the Philippines and Japan begin learning English at an early age. English is the official language of more than seventy-five countries including Britain, Canada, the United States, Australia, and South Africa. In countries where many different languages are spoken, English is often used as an official language to help people communicate. India is a good example. English is the common language in this country where at least twenty-four languages are spoken by more than one million people. Where did the English language come from? Why has it become so popular? To answer these questions we must travel back in time about five thousand years to an area north of the Black Sea in southeastern Europe. Experts say the people in that area spoke a language called Proto-Indo-European. That language is no longer spoken. Researchers do not really know what it sounded like. Yet, Proto-Indo-European is believed to be the ancestor of most European languages. These include the languages that became ancient Greek, ancient German and the ancient Latin. Latin disappeared as a spoken language. Yet it left behind three great languages that became modern Spanish, French and Italian. Ancient German became Dutch, Danish, German, Norwegian, Swedish and one of the languages that developed into English. The English language is a result of the invasions of the island of Britain over many hundreds of years. The invaders lived along the northern coast of Europe.

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The first invasions were by a people called Angles about one thousand five hundred years ago. The Angles were a German tribe who crossed the English Channel. Later two more groups crossed to Britain. They were the Saxons and the Jutes. These groups found a people called the Celts, who had lived in Britain for many thousands of years. The Celts and the invaders fought. After a while, most of the Celts were killed, or made slaves. Some escaped to live in the area that became Wales. Through the years, the Saxons, Angles and Jutes mixed their different languages. The result is what is called Anglo-Saxon or Old English. Old English is extremely difficult to understand. Only a few experts can read this earliest form of English. Several written works have survived from the Old English period. Perhaps the most famous is called Beowulf. It is the oldest known English poem. Experts say it was written in Britain more than one thousand years ago. The name of the person who wrote it is not known. Beowulf is the story of a great king who fought against monsters. He was a good king, well liked by his people. Listen as Warren Scheer reads the beginning of this ancient story in modern English. So. The Spear-Danes in days gone by and the kings who ruled them had courage and greatness. We have heard of those princes' heroic campaigns. There was Shield Sheafson, scourge of many tribes, a wrecker of mead-benches, rampaging among foes. This terror of the hall-troops had come far. A foundling to start with, he would flourish later on as his powers waxed and his worth was proved,

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In the end each clan on the outlying coasts beyond the whale-road had to yield to him and begin to pay tribute. That was one good king. The next great invasion of Britain came from the far north beginning about one thousand one hundred years ago. Fierce people called Vikings raided the coast areas of Britain. The Vikings came from Denmark, Norway and other northern countries. They were looking to capture trade goods and slaves and take away anything of value. In some areas, the Vikings became so powerful they built temporary bases. These temporary bases sometimes became permanent. Later, many Vikings stayed in Britain. Many English words used today come from these ancient Vikings. Words like "sky," "leg," "skull," "egg," "crawl," " lift" and "take" are from the old languages of the far northern countries. The next invasion of Britain took place more than nine hundred years ago, in ten sixty-six. History experts call this invasion the Norman Conquest. William the Conqueror led it. The Normans were a French-speaking people from Normandy in the north of France. They became the new rulers of Britain. These new rulers spoke only French for several hundred years. It was the most important language in the world at that time. It was the language of educated people. But the common people of Britain still spoke Old English. Old English took many words from the Norman French. Some of these include "damage," "prison," and "marriage." Most English words that describe law and government come from Norman French. Words such as "jury," "parliament," and "justice." The French language used by the Norman rulers greatly changed the way English was spoken by eight hundred years ago. English became what language experts call Middle English. As time passed, the ruling Normans no longer spoke true French. Their language had become a mix of French and Middle English. Middle English sounds like modern English. But it is very difficult to understand now. Many written works from this period have survived. Perhaps the most famous was written by Geoffrey Chaucer, a poet who lived in London and died there in fourteen hundred. Chaucer's most famous work is "The Canterbury Tales," written more than six hundred years ago.

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"The Canterbury Tales" is a collection of poems about different people traveling to the town of Canterbury. Listen for a few moments as Warren Scheer reads the beginning of Chaucer's famous "Canterbury Tales." Whan that aprill with his shoures soote The droghte of march hath perced to the roote, And bathed every veyne in swich licour Of which vertu engendred is the flour; Whan zephirus eek with his sweete breeth Inspired hath in every holt and heath. Now listen as Mr. Scheer reads the same sentences again, but this time in Modern English. When April with his showers sweet with fruit The drought of March has pierced unto the root And bathed each vein with liquor that has power To generate therein and sire the flower; When Zephyr also has, with his sweet breath, Quickened again, in every holt and heath, The tender shoots and buds, and the young sun. English language experts say Geoffrey Chaucer was the first important writer to use the English language. They also agree that Chaucer's great Middle English poem gives us a clear picture of the people of his time. The prologue you just heard describes a group of religious travelers going to Canterbury. To entertain themselves, they agree to tell stories while they travel.

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The Knight's Tale is about two men who compete for the love of a beautiful woman. The Miller's Tale is a funny story that tells about a young man who is in love with a married woman. The two play a mean trick on the woman's old husband. One of the most famous characters in the series of stories is the Wife of Bath. She is a strong, and opinionated woman who likes to talk about her many adventures in life and marriage. Some of the people described in "The Canterbury Tales" are wise and brave; some are stupid and foolish. Some believe they are extremely important. Some are very nice, others are mean. But they all still seem real. The history of the English language continues as Middle English becomes Modern English, which is spoken today. That will be our story next time. This program was written and produced by Paul Thompson. This is Shirley Griffith. And this is Steve Ember. Join us again next week to hear the second part of the History of the English Language on the VOA Special English program, EXPLORATIONS. Correction: English has not been declared the official language of the United States. This story incorrectly says it has.

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Administration Guide:

Purpose: The purpose of the ESL Listening Test is to provide a general measure of English listening proficiency when the aim is to compare a students performance to that of a larger group. Such situations might include the need to identify basic levels within a program or an individual class for general placement purposes. The test, however, is not geared for any particular programs objectives or curriculum, and is meant to serve as one tool of many that teachers and administrators can use in the evaluation process. As with any testing instrument, care should be taken in interpreting the results. The test has been designed for administration to high beginners through advanced learners of English. Description: The test contains six conversations, each followed by several multiple-choice questions. Students hear the conversation and each question orally, and then select the best answer from four written options. Because the purpose of the test is to check comprehension skills and not short-term memory, students may be allowed and encouraged to take notes, similar to what they would be required to do in many academic settings. Design: The test was designed with the following factors and aims in mind: provide a basic assessment tool that can be used in discriminating between individual students proficiency levels; create a test that is easy to administer and score. The conversations were written and recorded by Randalls ESL Cyber Listening Lab, and the questions were prepared in a multiple-choice format; however, because multiple-choice questions can only provide a limited amount of feedback, administrators can add additional writing prompts or questions that can be used to assess students comprehension, grammar, and writing skills (see examples at end of test). The conversations focus on topics common to students at a college or university, as well as themes dealing with everyday language and current events. This test includes the following six listening topics: introductions five questions education and jobs five questions taped library tour five questions dating and relationships five questions driving and rules of the road five questions international conflict five questions Testing Procedures: Test administrators are permitted to make photocopies of the test booklet for their needs. Students should fill out the front page of the test booklet, and

administrators can explain briefly the structure of the test before beginning. The test lasts 18 minutes. Keep in mind that because this test is available to anyone who visits Randall's ESL Cyber Listening Lab, it would not be the ideal testing instrument when test security is an issue. Scoring: The test can be scored by having students circle the answer for each item. Although not actually scored, the notes students write on the test can be evaluated informally if questions arise about students productive skills (note talking) or whether students clearly understood the content of the test. Recording: The test has been complied into a MP3 audio file that can be played on computers and portable media devices. The actual recordings that come from Randall's Web site and are used on this test include:
- Nice to Meet You - College Life - Taped Library Tour - First Date - Driving Road Test - Battle at the Front Terms of Use: The test booklet and recordings are Copyright 2012 by Randalls ESL Cyber Listening Lab. Administrators are allowed to freely photocopy the test booklet, as is, for an unlimited number of users and administrations, but it may not be modified in any way without written permission. The test and audio also cannot be resold. Additional terms include: - Because the test is being provided as free service to administrators, test takers (i.e., students) should not be charged fees to take this test. However, if you want to purchase the rights to charge students, then contact Randall to purchase a commercial license. In other words, you can use it for free if it is free to students. - The contents of the MP3 audio file may not be modified, reengineered, redistributed, or resold in any format (i.e., in a software application or mobile app). - Uploading test material (questions, transcripts, and audio file) to a local network or web server is prohibited, but a license to do so may be provided in some cases. ESL Listening Test Administration Guide Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.

Test Transcript In this test, you will listen to six different conversations. After each conversation, you will hear five questions. Each question you hear is followed four possible written answers. Circle the letter of the best answer for each question. You will hear each conversation and each question only one time. You may take notes in the test booklet. We will now begin the test. You may now turn the page to begin.

Conversation 1: Teacher: Uh, hi. What was your name again? I can't keep straight all the students' names this being the second day of school.

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Student: It's okay. I have a hard time remembering names myself. Teacher: How, uh, Karen, right? Student: No, it's Nancy. My mom's name is Karen. Teacher: Nancy. Okay. I think I heard you were from England. Student: Well, I was born there, but my parents are American. I grew up in France. Teacher: Oh, a world traveler! Student: But then we moved here when I was nine. Teacher: So, what does your father do now? Student: Well, he's a college professor, and he's in Scotland at the moment. Teacher: How interesting! What does he teach? Student: He teaches chemistry. Teacher: Oh, chemistry, and uh, what about your mother? Student: She works full time at home. Teacher: Ah, and what, does she have her own business or something? Student: Nah, she takes care of me. Teacher: Well, being a homemaker can be a real hard, but rewarding job. Student: I think so too. Question 1: What is the girls name? Question 2: Where was the girl born? Question 3: What does her father do? Question 4: What is her mothers job? Question 5: Where does the conversation probably take place? ______________________

switched majors to computer science. [Oh] With the right skills, landing a job in the computer industry shouldn't be as difficult. Dave: Yeah. So, do you have a part-time job to support yourself through school? Maria: Well, fortunately for me, I received a four-year academic scholarship [Wow!], and it pays for all of my tuition and books. Dave: That's great. You've always have been a real go-getter, and you'll succeed in anything. Maria: Well, thanks. Uh, how about you? Um, are you working to pay your way through school? Dave: Yeah. I work three times a week at a restaurant near campus. Maria: Oh. What do you do there? Dave: I'm a cook. Maria: How do you like your job? Dave: Uh, it's okay. Uh, the other workers are friendly, and the pay isn't bad. [Sounds okay.] Yeah, uh . . . Oh, actually, I have to go work now, and then I have to hit the books for a big test tomorrow. Maria: Well, thanks for stopping by. [Sure] Oh, and say hello to your brother for me. Dave: Okay. See you later. Question 6: What does the man want to do after he graduates? Question 7: What is the woman's major? Question 8: How does the woman pay for school? Question 9: Where does the man work? Question 10: What thing does the man NOT say about his job? _____________

Conversation 2: Maria: Oh, hi Dave. [Hi] Long time, no see! Dave: Hi Maria. I was in the neighborhood, so I thought I'd drop by. Maria: Come on in. [Oh, thanks.] Take a seat. Uh, so, how have you been lately? Maria: Um, not bad. And you? Dave: Oh, I'm doing okay, but school has been really hectic these days, and I haven't had time to relax. I'm always burning the midnight oil to get things done, you know. Maria: By the way, what's your major anyway? Dave: Uh, business management. Maria: Well, what do you want to do once you graduate? Dave: Well, uh . . . I haven't decided for sure, but I think I'd like to work for a hotel or travel agency in this area. How about you? Maria: Well, when I first started college, I wanted to major in French [Oh], but I realized I might have a hard time finding a job using the language [Um], so I

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Wednesdays? ___________

Conversation 4: Girl: He's here. Bye Dad. Dad: Wait, wait, wait . . . Where are you going? Girl: Dad. I've already told mom. I'm going out tonight. Dad: Who with? You mean you're going on a date? Girl: Yeah. Mom met Dirk yesterday. [Dirk!?] He's so cool. We're going on a double-date with Cindy and Evan. Dad: Dirk. Girl: I have to go. Dad: Wait, wait. I want to meet this guy. Girl: He's waiting for me. Dad: Well, so what are you going to do tonight? Going to the library? Girl: Dad! We're going out to eat, and then we're going to catch a movie. Dad: What movie and what is it rated? Girl: It's a science fiction thriller called . . . well, I don't know what it is called, but it's rated PG. Dad: And where's the movie showing? Girl: Down at the Campus Plaza Movie Theater. Dad: Hey, I was thinking about seeing a movie down there tonight, too. Girl: Ah, Dad. Dad: Hey, Let me meet that guy. [Father looks out the living room window . . . Hey, that guy has a moustache! Girl: Dad. That's not Dirk. That's his older brother. He's taking us there! Can I go now? Dad: Well . . . Girl: Mom said I could, and mom knows his parents. Dad: Well . . . Girl: Dad. Dad: Okay, but be home by 8:00. Girl: Eight!? The movie doesn't start until 7:30. Come on, Dad. Dad: Okay. Be back by 11:00. Girl: Love you, Dad. Dad: Love you, too. Girl: Bye. Dad: Bye. Question 16: What kind of movie is the girl going to see on her date?

Conversation 3: Hello and welcome to the university library. This taped tour will introduce you to our library facilities and operating hours. First of all, the library's collection of books, reference materials, and other resources are found on levels one to four of this building. Level one houses our humanities and map collections. On level two, you will find our circulation desk, current periodicals and journals, and our copy facilities. Our science and engineering sections can be found on level three. You can also find back issues of periodicals and journals older than six months on this level. Finally, group study rooms, our microfilm collection, and the multimedia center are located on level four. Undergraduate students can check out up to five books for two weeks. Graduate students can check out fifteen books for two months. Books can be renewed up to two times. There is a 50-cents-a-day late fee for overdue books up to a maximum of $15.00. Periodicals and reference books cannot be checked out. The library is open weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The library is closed on Sundays. Question 11: On what level would you find a book on organic chemistry? Question 12: Where would you mostly likely find an educational video to watch? Question 13: Where is the most likely place to find a book on English literature? Question 14: How much would you have to pay in late fees if you had a book that was three days overdue? Question 15: When does the library open on

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Question 17: Where is the movie playing? Question 18: How is the girl going to get to the movie theater? Question 19: What time does the movie begin? Question 20: When does she have to be home?

Conversation 5: Driving Officer: Okay. Mr. Smith. Let's begin your road test. Mr. Smith: Oh. I know I'm ready. I've been practicing in my driveway all week. Driving Officer: Okay. Mr. Smith. As I'm sure you are aware, you will not only be tested on your knowledge of the rules of the road, but on your behavior toward other motorists. Mr. Smith: Okey-dokey. Driving Officer: Okay. Now you can start your car. Mr. Smith: Yeah, right. Here we go! Driving Officer: Whoa! Take it easy. The speed limit in this business district is only 25 miles an hour. [Oh]. All right. Now, turn right at the next corner . . . [This corner?] Na, not here! Wow! You forgot to signal too! Mr. Smith: Gosh. I didn't see that one, and . . . Ah, Could you grab my cell phone under my seat. [Huh?] Nah, I'll get it. Driving Officer: Oh, Mr. Smith. Keep your eyes on the road! Mr. Smith: Oh yeah. Driving Officer: Okay. Now, pull over here and show me that you can parallel park. Mr. Smith: Sure. Wait. Hey bud. Move your car. I was here first! Driving Officer: Ah. Forget it. Just keep driving. Mr. Smith: So, how am I doing? Can I just take a peek at your notes? Driving Officer: No! And, uh, watch out. Mr. Smith. Now you're tailgating the vehicle in front of us. Mr. Smith: Oh, yeah. I'm just so excited about getting my license today. [Right.]. Driving Officer: Okay. Now carefully, CAREFULLY turn right here, and wait, wait, WAIT . . . STOP!! You almost hit that pedestrian. How in the world did you pass the written test anyway? [Well . . .] You have to give way to any pedestrians crossing the street. Jeez! Mr. Smith: Oh, sorry about that. It won't happen again. [Car screeching to a stop . . .] Driving Officer: Whoa! Get out! [What?] Get out! I'm driving back to the office. Mr. Smith: Does this mean I didn't pass the test? Driving Officer: Look, Mr. Smith. Could you do me a favor? When you come back to take the test again, plan on coming on Friday. Mr. Smith: Again? Why? Is it less crowded that day? Driving Officer: No. It's my day off.

Question 21: Where has the man been practicing for his road test this past week? Question 22: In what part of town do they begin the road test? Question 23: Which one event did NOT occur during the driving test? Question 24: What did Mr. Smith almost hit during his driving test? Question 25: Why does the driving officer advise Mr. Smith to return on Friday? ____________

Conversation 6: Newscaster: We interrupt our regular scheduled news program to bring you live up-to-date coverage on the civil unrest in the newly formed country of Karnak, where our man Stan Fielding is stationed. Stan . . . News Reporter: This is Stan Fielding reporting live from the outskirts of the capital city. Just 20 minutes ago, rebel forces launched the biggest offensive against the ruling government in the 18-month conflict here in this country. Newscaster: Now Stan, is this a sign that the peace process has been totally abandoned? News Reporter: Well, so far, peace negotiations have failed, and any resolution to quell the civil war appears bleak at this point. As you can see . . . Whoa. Newscaster: Stan, Stan, are you there? News Reporter: Uh, yes, Bob. As you can probably hear behind me, rebel forces are also using heavy artillery to pound government strongholds around the city center. Rebel forces are closing in, and it's feared that they will be able to take the capital building before sunup where it is believed, many government officials are holding out. Newscaster: Now, besides the heavy fighting, what other pressing concerns are there for the citizens of the city? News Reporter: Well, since the beginning of the conflict, starvation, clean water, and adequate shelter have been the biggest daily obstacles facing the citizens of this torn country. It is believed that over

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40,000 people, mostly children, have starved to death. Land mines have claimed countless other lives. Fortunately, no epidemics have broken out, but that is always a concern if this war lingers on. Newscaster: Okay, that was Stan Fielding reporting. And we will keep you up-to-date as this story continues to unfold. Question 26: Where is the news reporter, Stan Fielding, in the city?

Question 27: How long has the civil war been going on? Question 28: About what time of day is this news report taking place? Question 29: What is the main target of the rebels in this latest attack? Question 30: Which is NOT a major problem as a result of the war so far? This is the end of the test.

Technology Report
From VOA Learning English, this is the Technology Report in Special English. Consumer electronics once again topped the list of the most wanted gifts this holiday season. Seventy-six percent of consumers who plan to buy holiday gifts say that they will spend money or buy at least one technology product; definitely a solid vote of confidence for technology. Steve Koenig is with the Consumer Electronics Association. He says the groups latest research also shows that Americans this year are spending more on technology products. Here in 2012, $252 on average the technology spend for consumers this year. From tablet computers to smartphones, American shoppers have been lining up to get the newest and coolest electronic devices on the market. There are more choices today than ever before. Its kind of hard to make a decision. Tablet computers are one of the best-selling products this year. Brian Tong is Senior Editor of CNET.com. The website reports on tech news and examines the latest electronic products. He says the Apple iPad Mini is one of the most popular tablets. Its starting price is $329. One of Apples biggest competitors is the Google Nexus 7. It starts at $199. The hardware inside is more powerful than whats in the iPad Mini, but also it offers you a lot of things like maps that work better than Apples maps. Brian Tong says there is one reason why people may like the iPad Mini more than the Nexus 7. If you just want to read books and surf the Internet, really you dont really need to get an iPad Mini, but if you

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want the largest robust group of apps thats where the iPad and Apples ecosystem shines the most. Elman Chacon is with the electronics store Best Buy. He says another hot product this season is smart cameras. They connect to the Internet through WiFi. This makes it easy for users to email or upload photographs directly from the camera. You can literally take a picture, upload it into your Facebook in a matter of seconds. These things are pretty cool because they do a lot of things. Streaming media boxes also connect to the Internet. People are able to watch web content such as movies and YouTube videos on their televisions. Another popular item is wireless speaker systems. The newest ones work with any device that has Bluetooth technology, including smartphones, laptops and tablets. With the growing popularity of Internet shopping, many consumers will visit a store first to look at a product, and then go online to find it at a lower price. Stores like Best Buy understand that and they want to stay competitive. We have something called the perfect match promise which means if you buy a certain device and you find it cheaper within 30 days well go ahead and price match that for you.

The Streadfast Tin Soldier

Hello Everybody, My Names natasha, and his Royal Highness Prince Bertie the Frog has commanded me to tell you the storynory of the Tin Solider, by Hans Christian Andersen [version by Andrew Lang] But first, Ill share a little gossip I picked up about Bertie. Once, when Bertie was still a prince, before he was turned into a frog, he tried to play with the soldiers who stood guard outside palace, but the Sergeant Major shouted him really loudly, and made his clean his boots and tidy his room, and after that Bertie decided to stick playing with toy soldiers. Thats a secret by the way, so dont tell anyone. Now, Berties asking me to get on with the story, so I had better begin the Storyory of the Steadfast Tin Soldier. There were once upon a time five-and twenty tin-soldiersall brothers, as they were made out of the same old tin spoon. Their uniform was red and blue, and they shouldered their guns and looked straight in front of them. The first words that they heard in this world, when the lid of the box in which they lay was taken off, were: Hurrah, tin-soldiers! This was exclaimed by a little boy, clapping his hands; they had been given to him because it was his birthday, and now he began setting them out on the table. Each soldier was exactly like the other in shape, except just one, who had been made last when the tin had run short; but there he stood as firmly on his one leg as the others did on two, and he is the one that became famous. There were many other playthings on the table on which they were being set out, but the nicest of all was a pretty little castle made of cardboard, with windows through which you could see into the rooms. In front of the

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castle stood some little trees surrounding a tiny mirror which looked like a lake. Wax swans were floating about and reflecting themselves in it. That was all very pretty; but the most beautiful thing was a little lady, who stood in the open doorway. She was cut out of paper, but she had on a dress of the finest muslin, with a scarf of narrow blue ribbon round her shoulders, fastened in the middle with a glittering rose made of gold paper, which was as large as her head. The little lady was stretching out both her arms, for she was a Dancer, and was lifting up one leg so high in the air that the Tin-soldier couldnt find it anywhere, and thought that she, too, had only one leg. Thats the wife for me! he thought; but she is so grand, and lives in a castle, whilst I have only a box with fourand-twenty others. This is no place for her! But I must make her acquaintance. Then he stretched himself out behind a snuff-box that lay on the table; from thence he could watch the dainty little lady, who continued to stand on one leg without losing her balance. When the night came all the other tin-soldiers went into their box, and the people of the house went to bed. Then the toys began to play at visiting, dancing, and fighting. The tin-soldiers rattled in their box, for they wanted to be out too, but they could not raise the lid. The nut-crackers played at leap-frog, and the chalk ran about the blackboard; there was such a noise that the canary woke up and began to talk to them, in poetry too! The only two who did not stir from their places were the Tin-soldier and the little Dancer. She remained on tiptoe, with both arms outstretched; he stood steadfastly on his one leg, never moving his eyes from her face. The clock struck twelve, and crack! off flew the lid of the spice- box; but there were no spices inside, nor any hot curry powder, only a little impthat was the beauty of it. Now an imp is a magical creature, a little like a fairy, only more naughty. Hullo, Tin-soldier! said the imp. Dont look at things that arent intended for the likes of you! She meant that he shouldnt look at the little dander. But the Tin-soldier took no notice, and seemed not to hear. Very well, wait till to-morrow! said the imp. When it was morning, and the children had got up, the Tin-soldier was put in the window; and whether it was the wind or the little imp, I dont know, but all at once the window flew open and out fell the little Tin-soldier, head over heels, from the third- storey window! That was a terrible fall, I can tell you! He landed on his head with his leg in the air, his gun being wedged between two paving-stones. The nursery-maid and the little boy came down at once to look for him, but, though they were so near him that they almost trod on him, they did not notice him. If the Tin-soldier had only called out Here I am! they must have found him; but he did not think it fitting for him to cry out, because he had on his uniform.

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Soon it began to drizzle; then the drops came faster, and there was a regular down-pour. When it was over, two little street boys came along. Just look! cried one. Here is a Tin-soldier! He shall sail up and down in a boat! So they made a little boat out of newspaper, put the Tin-soldier in it, and made him sail up and down the gutter; both the boys ran along beside him, clapping their hands. What great waves there were in the gutter, and what a swift current! The paper-boat tossed up and down, and in the middle of the stream it went so quick that the Tin-soldier trembled; but he remained steadfast, showed no emotion, looked straight in front of him, shouldering his gun. All at once the boat passed under a long tunnel that was as dark as his box had been. Where can I be coming now? he wondered. Oh, dear! This is the imps fault! Ah, if only the little lady were sitting beside me in the boat, it might be twice as dark for all I should care! Suddenly there came along a great water-rat that lived in the tunnel. Have you a passport? asked the rat. Out with your passport! But the Tin-soldier was silent, and grasped his gun more firmly. The boat sped on, and the rat behind it. Ugh! how he showed his teeth, as he cried to the chips of wood and straw: Hold him, hold him! he has not paid the toll! He has not shown his passport! But the current became swifter and stronger. The Tin-soldier could already see daylight where the tunnel ended; but in his ears there sounded a roaring enough to frighten any brave man. Only think! at the end of the tunnel the gutter discharged itself into a great canal; that would be just as dangerous for him as it would be for us to go down a waterfall. Now he was so near to it that he could not hold on any longer. On went the boat, the poor Tin-soldier keeping himself as stiff as he could: no one should say of him afterwards that he had flinched. The boat whirled three, four times round, and became filled to the brim with water: it began to sink! The Tin-soldier was standing up to his neck in water, and deeper and deeper sank the boat, and softer and softer grew the paper; now the water was over his head. He was thinking of the pretty little Dancer, whose face he should never see again, and there sounded in his ears, over and over again: Forward, forward, soldier bold! Deaths before thee, grim and cold! The paper came in two, and the soldier fellbut at that moment he was swallowed by a great fish. Oh! how dark it was inside, even darker than in the tunnel, and it was really very close quarters! But there the steadfast little Tin-soldier lay full length, shouldering his gun.

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Up and down swam the fish, then he made the most dreadful contortions, and became suddenly quite still. Then it was as if a flash of lightning had passed through him; the daylight streamed in, and a voice exclaimed, Why, here is the little Tin-soldier! The fish had been caught, taken to market, sold, and brought into the kitchen, where the cook had cut it open with a great knife. She took up the soldier between her finger and thumb, and carried him into the room, where everyone wanted to see the hero who had been found inside a fish; but the Tin-soldier was not at all proud. They put him on the table, andno, but what strange things do happen in this world!the Tin-soldier was in the same room in which he had been before! He saw the same children, and the same toys on the table; and there was the same grand castle with the pretty little Dancer. She was still standing on one leg with the other high in the air; she too was steadfast. That touched the Tin-soldier, he was nearly going to shed tin-tears; but that would not have been fitting for a soldier. He looked at her, but she said nothing. All at once one of the little boys took up the Tin-soldier, and threw him into the stove, giving no reasons; but doubtless the imp in the spice-box was at the bottom of this too. There the Tin-soldier lay, and felt a heat that was truly terrible; but whether he was suffering from actual fire, or from the ardour of his passion, he did not know. All his colour had disappeared; whether this had happened on his travels or whether it was the result of trouble, who can say? He looked at the little lady, she looked at him, and he felt that he was melting; but he remained steadfast, with his gun at his shoulder. Suddenly a door opened, the draught caught up the little Dancer, and off she flew like a fairy to the Tin-soldier in the stove, burst into flamesand that was the end of her! Then the Tin-soldier melted down into a little lump, and when next morning the maid was taking out the ashes, she found him in the shape of a heart. There was nothing left of the little Dancer but her gilt rose, burnt as black as a cinder. And thats the Storynory of The Steadfast Tin Soldier. I think the ending was rather sad, dont you? He was such a brave little soldier. But not all stories have happy endings. Bertie says that when he was a prince, he always looked after all his toys, really carefully, and always put them away in their correct places. He would never lose a good little soldier like the one in the story. Anyway, Ill be back with another story soon. In the meantime, you can find loads more stories and poems on Storynory.com. Most of them have happy endings, and they are all absolutely free, but if you can also buy personalised stories for a very special person in your life. So tell all your friends to visit Storynory.com. For now, from me, Natasha, Bye Bye!

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Tick Tock Turkey and the Disappearing Sandwich

This is a story about a very odd bird called Tick Tock Turkey, his friend Future Dog, and a sandwich that disappeared, mysteriously, into thin air. Tick Tock Turkey and his friend Future Dog live on Egg Island, and float with thier home through time and space. Tick Tock Turkey concentrates his mind on the really important things in life such as making the best sandwich ever and when things dont quite work out as he plans, all he has to do is turn back the hands of his very special watch. This tale of a scruffy time-travelling turkey has been specially written for Storynory. Read by Natasha. Duration 23 Minutes This is a story about a very odd bird called Tick Tock Turkey, his friend Future Dog, and a sandwich that disappeared, mysteriously, into thin air. Tick Tock Turkey is a brown feathery bird, a bit scruffy, and a bit clumsy. He has a special watch with a red button that he wears on one of his wings. Future Dog as you can probably guess is a dog, and she comes from the future. She has black fur, blue and gold hair on her head, and wears dark sunglasses all the time. Even at night. Tick Tock Turkey and Future Dog have an interesting talent. They can travel in time. They can go forward into the future, when thing havent happened yet, or backward into the past, when things have already happened. Time travel is quite complicated, so its a good idea to explain one or two things about it. Youre probably thinking: It isnt possible to travel in time. It cant be done! However hard you try, no matter what you do, its always right now. Its never yesterday, and its never tomorrow. It is always

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today. You might say to yourself: I cant wait until tomorrow! Its going to be so much more exciting than today! and then jump into bed and shut your eyes tight and make yourself go to sleep so that tomorrow comes quickly. But what happens when you wake up? Its not tomorrow at all. Its just a different today. Its always today, no matter what you do. Just imagine that you could say to yourself: Im so bored with Monday. And Tuesday doesnt look very exciting. Wednesday and Thursday look pretty dull. Now, I was planning to go out for ice cream on Friday, which will be much more fun. So: Im going to push a button and make it Friday, right now. Ill just zoom into the future and miss out all those boring days in between So you push a button, and zap! Its Friday! And theres so much ice cream you cant stop yourself even though you know youre probably going to have a sore tummy and a headache. Hang on. That doesnt happen, does it? No one can push a button and zoom into the future. But what if you could say to yourself: I really enjoyed going to the beach last weekend. The sun was so hot and I got to lounge around for hours and swim in the sea and look for crabs in the rock pools and play football on the sand. But now its raining and miserable and Im stuck indoors. So: Im going to push a button and make it last weekend, right now. Ill just zoom into the past and get away from this boring rainy day So you push a button, and zap! Its last weekend! And you can play and swim and eat ice lollies all day and then, when the day is over, you can zoom back to this morning and do it all over again! Hang on. That doesnt happen either, does it? No one can push a button and zoom into the past whenever they feel like it. Well, that scruffy Tick Tock Turkey, and that flashy Future Dog, they can travel in time. They can go forward into the future, or backward into the past, using a special time-travelling watch. Now, time travel isnt always as much fun as it sounds. Sometimes time travel can cause plenty of bother. Its complicated zooming back to yesterday, or zooming forward to tomorrow, and then zooming back to today and still remembering when it is and where you are. In fact, sometimes time travel can cause so much bother that it hardly seems worthwhile. Tick Tock Turkeys disappearing sandwich caused a lot of confusion. The story of Tick Tock Turkeys sandwich is a good one to hear, if you want to know just how peculiar time travelling can be. * Tick Tock Turkey and Future Dog live in a strange place called Egg Island. Egg Island isnt the biggest island in the world, but its not small either. It has a mountain in the middle, surrounded by a deep, dark jungle, and a bright sandy beach all the way around its shores. Across the island there are hundreds of stone turkeys, tall statues with enormous stone eggs balanced on their heads, each carved from the mountain rock by clever turkeys long ago. Egg Island used to be part of the land of Turkeytopia, a whole country of birds. But now Egg Island drifts across the seas of the world, like an enormous boat with no sail.

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Egg Island also does something mysterious. It doesnt only drift across the seas, it also floats through time. It drifts forward into the future, and backward into the past, as the tide takes it. When Egg Island comes ashore, which it does every now and then, for a little while, there is no telling where, or when, it could be! On one very misty morning on Egg Island, with the shadows of the big turkey statues growing ever shorter as the sun rose ever higher, with the strange animals in the jungle making ever stranger noises as it grew ever hotter, Tick Tock Turkey set about making the best sandwich ever. Tick Tock Turkey didnt just like sandwiches. Everybody likes sandwiches. Tick Tock Turkey thought that sandwiches were the best kind of food that had ever been invented. And this particular sandwich was going to be the single best sandwich that had ever been made. Ever. Tick Tock Turkey took the business of making sandwiches very seriously, and everything had to be done just right. First of all, he cleared some space on a flat tree stump at the edge of the jungle by the beach. This would be his sandwich-making table. He scampered into the jungle and gathered up some thick crusty bread slices from the bread bushes beside one of the jungle lakes. On Egg Island, all kinds of food grow just like this. When it comes to the best sandwich ever made, only the flattest, crustiest, chunkiest pieces of bread will do. Tick Tock Turkey picked two of the crustiest and chunkiest. He took an empty coconut shell and dipped it into the lake which was made of warm butter filled it up to the brim, and brought the bread and butter back to the table. Next, Tick Tock Turkey fetched some orange lettuce, some blue tomatoes and a big yellow onion. Things are sometimes unusual colours on Egg Island! When he had taken those things and put them on the table, he went back to the jungle and fetched a big wedge of purple cheese from the cheese tree, and some peppery mustard from the mustard swamp. Mustard was Tick Tock Turkeys favourite. He was getting extremely hungry now his mouth was starting to water, and he couldnt wait to put all the ingredients together. But he didnt have everything he needed. Two more essential ingredients would give the sandwich that special something. Can you guess what they were? Thats right pink gravy, and hot chocolate sauce. No sandwich is complete without pink gravy and hot chocolate sauce. Tick Tock Turkey rummaged through the jungle vines until he found a nice, healthy gravy plant. He picked a pair of plump, pink gravy fruit. He climbed up a rocky slope to the huge, old chocolate tree, pecked into the trunk with his beak, and out oozed some thick, sugary chocolate. He filled up another coconut shell, carrying it to the beach on the end of his wing like a bucket, swishing little drops of hot brown chocolate behind him. Finally, with all of the ingredients in front of him, Tick Tock Turkey was at last ready to begin making the best sandwich ever! Youd better watch this, Future Dog, he called out across the beach, this is going to be an absolutely incredible sandwich. Big and tasty. The best!

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All this time, Future Dog had been sitting on the beach nearby, lounging in the shade of a tall turkey statue, reading her book, and sipping from a cup of cool, delicious papaya fruit juice. Future Dog knew that Tick Tock Turkey was always up to some silly plan or another, trying to make sailboats from banana skins or trying to build beach houses with sand. And even though Tick Tock Turkey had been scampering backwards and forwards all morning, dashing into the jungle one minute, and dashing back onto the beach the next minute, gobbling and squawking excitedly with his wings laden with weird food, Future Dog hadnt been paying much attention. Shed seen it all before. When the sandwich was done, with all the ingredients including the pink gravy and chocolate sauce packed inside the chunky slices of bread, Tick Tock Turkey decided that his sandwich looked absolutely delicious. Have a look! he squawked. Come on, Future Dog. Come here and have a look at my fantastic sandwich! Future Dog wasnt in the mood. Do I have to? she asked. Only that smell of onions and mustard and gravy and chocolate all mixed together is wafting around and making me feel a bit queasy. Tick Tock Turkey scampered over to Future Dog and pulled the book from her paws. Come on! he said. Even if its not your favourite, Im telling you its an amazing job in fact, its a work of art, and youd better look quick before I gobble it up! Future Dog shrugged: Oh well, I suppose I should have a look, she said. After all, you have been working very hard. Then, as they were about to look at Tick Tock Turkeys sandwich, there was a sudden loud WHOOSH, quickly followed by a second loud WHOOSH. They jumped. In fact, the second WHOOSH wasnt so much a WHOOSH as a WHOOSH backwards. A sort of SHOOWH. What the egg was that? said Tick Tock Turkey. Im not sure, said Future Dog. Although it did sound a bit familiar Forget it, said Tick Tock Turkey, Im too hungry to care. Its just some stupid island wind. Future Dog, here it is the best sandwich ever! They looked over at the table to admire Tick Tock Turkeys work. But there was nothing there. Whaat?! cried Tick Tock Turkey. Wheres my sandwich? Wheres it gone? Whaat?! He flapped his wings until feathers fluttered to the sand. He ran around in a tiny circle. Future Dog scratched her head. Well, that is peculiar, she said. But no ones been here. It seems to have gone very quickly. Whaat? gobbled Tick Tock Turkey. It was there a second ago! I only turned my back for an instant. Whaat? And you didnt see anyone else? asked Future Dog. No one. Whaat? And youre sure it was there?

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Of course it was there! It was big and huge and delicious and it smelled wonderful! Future Dog nodded. Well, I dont agree that it smelled wonderful, but it certainly stunk enough to have been there alright. Tick Tock Turkey fumed and squawked and ran around in another tiny circle. Suddenly he stopped in his tracks, and stuck one wing up in the air. Theres nothing for it, he said. Im going to use the Time Watch! The Time Watch? said Future Dog, are you sure thats really necessary? The sandwich cant be far away. Even if someone has pinched it, they cant have got far into the jungle and Im sure we can catch them up. No, said Tick Tock Turkey, fiddling with the winder on the watch, the only way to be absolutely sure that I get my sandwich back in exactly the way I want it and that means without anyone else having got their grubby hands on it or nibbled at it is to go back in time to when it was there, and stop the thief before he makes his getaway! Future Dog scratched her chin. Yes, she said thoughtfully, I suppose that makes sense. You could turn the watch back a few minutes, pop through a time hole, and stop the thief in his tracks. Well, Tick Tock Turkey, for a very silly bird, that sounds like a clever plan. You bet, said Tick Tock Turkey. He stood by the empty table and twisted the winder on the watch so that the big hand turned backwards. Two minutes to when the sandwich was still there. He pushed the red button on the side of the watch And WHOOSH! A time hole opened in front of him, like a hazy cloud of light and sparks, floating in the air. I can see my sandwich! he squawked, peering through the hole. And it looks delicious! And I can see myself talking to you, Future Dog, and Im asking you to come and have a look at it! That means the thief will grab the sandwich any second now! And can you see the thief? asked Future Dog. Not yet, said Tick Tock Turkey, there doesnt seem to be anyone else there. He must be hiding. But hell strike any second. Im not taking any chances I wont let my sandwich get stolen twice! And with that, Tick Tock Turkey dived into the time hole. He vanished for a moment, and then, as quickly as he had gone, he reappeared, popping out with his sandwich safely between his wings. The hole shut behind him with a loud SHOOWH! Tick Tock Turkey looked triumphant. Ive got my sandwich back! Yes! Ive foiled the thief! Hang on, said Future Dog. I thought those whooshing and shoowhing sounds we heard earlier were a bit familiar. It was a time hole opening and closing. Tick Tock Turkey shrugged. Whatever. Ive got it back thats the important thing. Future Dog sighed. Well, Tick Tock Turkey, it means that means the thief who stole your sandwich was a time traveller, just like us. Doesnt matter, said Tick Tock Turkey. Whats important is that Ive beaten the thief at his own game, and now the best sandwich ever is back!

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Future Dog slapped her forehead with her paw. Oh dear, she said. I think I know who took your sandwich. Nonsense, said Tick Tock Turkey. I grabbed the sandwich before the thief got there, so well never know. Future Dog sighed, Well, I do know. You took the sandwich, Tick Tock Turkey. Tick Tock Turkey shook his head: Whaat? You stole it from yourself! Whaat? The time traveller who stole your sandwich was you, from the future, coming back to get it! Tick Tock Turkey shook his head again, this time so hard that feathers flew off in all directions. Im so confused! he squawked. Its the only explanation, said Future Dog. You stole your own sandwich from yourself. Ive been time travelling for much longer than you, Tick Tock Turkey, and its the only possible explanation. Well, I reckon its just stupid, said Tick Tock Turkey, quite annoyed, because why would I have gone back in time and taken it if someone hadnt come and taken it into the future in the first place? Future Dog nodded thoughtfully. It is rather complicated. Tick Tock Turkey squawked crossly. I cant believe that someone would come from the future and steal my sandwich. The cheek! He looked down at the big sandwich in front of him. Oh, he said, frowning, but Ive still got the sandwich. Does that mean Im the thief? Whaat? Ow. My head hurts from all this thinking. Cheer up, said Future Dog. You cant really steal from yourself, can you? I suppose not, said Tick Tock Turkey. But I think I just did! Tuck in to your sandwich, said Future Dog. After all, youve travelled in time to get it, and isnt it supposed to be the best sandwich ever? Tick Tock Turkey shrugged, took an enormous bite from his sandwich, and started to gobble it down. And aah It was indeed. The best sandwich ever.

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