A Day at School

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.

Acting School and Movie Stars

News Reporter: Hello. This is James Goodfellow from Channel 4 news. Today, we are
interviewing Sarah Roberts, the star of the new movie, Zombies on Mars Part 4. Sarah,
uh, thanks for joining us.
Sarah: You're welcome, Jimmy.
News Reporter: It's, uh, James.
Sarah: Whatever . . .
News Reporter: Well, let's start off the interview with a few basicquestions. First of all,
where are you from?
Sarah: Well, I'm originally from Miami, but we moved to New York when I was three
years old. [Oh.] I lived there until I was 17, and then I moved to Los Angeles to be an
actress.
News Reporter: Okay, and where did you go to college?
Sarah: I attended Fernando's School of Acting, and all of my teachers LOVED my acting.
News Reporter: And, did you have a part-time job while you were in school?
Sarah: Yeah. I worked at a movie theater, and everyone LOVED the way I made the
popcorn.
News Reporter: Really. Okay, and how old are you now?
Sarah: Well, I'm only 20, but everyone I know says I look at LEAST 22.
News Reporter: Oh, right. Okay. And, what are you hobbies outside of acting?
Sarah: Oh, I love shopping for clothes and makeup and, and . . . . Did I say I love

shopping for clothes?

News Reporter: Well, you DID say clothes . . .
Sarah: Oh, yeah. Well, do you want to take some pictures of me . . . you know, for your
homepage or your blog and you can even use them on your Facebook fan page.
News Reporter: Uh, I think we'll be okay.
Sarah: Okay, well, um . . . Oh, oh look, all of my fans. Hey, gotta go, honey. Hi everyone.

Key Vocabulary [Top]

start off (verb): begin
- Ashley started off her acting career in New York City.
basic (adjective): simple
- We lived in a very basic house when I was little.
originally (adverb): at first, in the beginning
- My mother is originally from Mexico, but she grew up in the United
States.
gotta go (informal expression): have to go
- Hey, I (I've) gotta go to work now. See you later.
- My brother's gotta study more if he wants to pass the class.
honey (adjective): sweatheart, dear, love
- Hi, honey! Will you make me lunch, please?

Answering Machine
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 shouldwrap 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'll swing by my house to pick up some
food for the game. See you then

Apartments for Rent

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 [Top]

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?

Bookstore Shopping
ather: Son, what are you . . .
Son: Dad, Dad?
Father:Son. What are you doing here down at the beach? I thought you
said you were going to buy some things for school?
Son: Well, Uh, Dad. I DID buy some things.
Father: Well, what did you buy? What do you have in your backpack?
Son: Well, let's see. I have three notebooks, five pencils, an eraser, and
oh yeah . . . .
Father: Wait! Two smart phones?
Son: Well, uh . . .
Father: What, what do you need with two smart phones?
Son: Well, I use one to call you and Mom, and the other, I call my, uh, my
teachers. Yeah, yeah, yeah! That's it.

Father: Right.
Son: And, uh, yeah.
Father: And what else did you buy?
Son: Well, um, yeah. I have a new iPad.
Father: A new iPad? What do you need a new iPad for?
Son: Well, you know. My birthday is coming up . . .
Father: Your birthday isn't until June. That's six months away.
Son: Well, Mom thought it was a good idea. And I have, let's see, what
else? Two cheeseburgers, some fries, and oooh, a melted ice cream.
Father: How how did you pay for all that?
Son: Well, uh, ooh, uh. Time is passing. Gotta go! Bye, Dad!
Father: Hey, where's my credit card? Come back!!

Camping under the Stars

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 canspoil our 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 [Top]
Listen to the key vocabulary and sample sentences:
PLAY - Windows Media

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.

Christmas is Coming!
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 Barbieradio, um, I would have somefragile 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[Top]
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.

Class Reunion

manda: Hey, I know you. You're James, right? James Roberts.

James: Amanda Brown. Wow! It's been a long time.

Amanda: Yeah. Oh, are you going to the class reunion in two weeks?
James: Uh, I heard about it, but I'm not sure. Where is it?
Amanda: The reunion is going to be held at the Mountain Country Club across from City
Park.
James: And what time does it start?
Amanda: I think it starts at 6:00.
James: And how much does it cost?
Amanda: It's twenty dollars a ticket, and that includes dinner and entertainment.
James: What kind of entertainment are they going to have?
Amanda: They're going to have a live jazz band and dancing.
James: And who is organizing the event?
Amanda: Do you remember Chad Phillips?
James: Uh, wasn't he the quarterback on the football team?
Amanda: Right. Well, he married Sarah Rogers, and they are in charge of the event. So,
what do you think? Are you going?
James: I don't know. I never really fit in in high school. I was kind of a loner. I also
remember asking Sarah out on a date, and she turned me down. She said she was sick, and
it turned out she went out with someone that same night. It could be a little awkward.
Amanda: Hey, why don't we go together?
James: Are you sure?
Amanda: Yeah.
James: Well, sure. Why not. To be honest, I always thought you were very nice. I just

never had the guts to ask you out.

Amanda: Well, here's your chance.
James: Sounds great. So, what's your number so I can call you?
Amanda: It's 435-923-6017.
James: 6017, Okay. Where do you live?
Amanda: I only live two blocks south of the old high school.
James: Okay. I remember where you live. Let me call you a few days before
toconfirm things.
Amanda: Sounds good. It should be fun.

Key Vocabulary [Top]

reunion (noun): a get together of people who have been apart for a
long time
- We are going to hold the class reunion on September first.
organize (verb): put together or plan an event
- Ashley organized a very fun party last Friday.
be in charge of (verb): have control, lead, or be responsible for
something
- Who was in charge of buying the food and drinks for the reunion?
fit in (verb): feel a part of or belong to a group
- Why didn't Amanda fit in during high school?
loner (noun): a person who is often alone or likes to be alone
- I was a loner back in high school, and I didn't have any friends.
turn someone down (noun): reject or refuse someone
- James asked many girls out on dates, but they all turned him
down.

 awkward (adjective): uncomfortable or uneasy

- Meeting new people is sometimes awkward if you don't know what
to say and do.
guts (noun): courage
- I didn't have the guts to ask Jessica out on a date.
confirm (verb): check
- Have you confirmed the date of the reunion?

Clothing Styles
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 restof 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 [Top]
PLAY - Windows Media

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 outin a white tuxedo. Then, we realized he came
to propose to his girlfriend.

Business Communications
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 5601288.
Secretary: Okay. Jack Kordell. Is your name spelled C-o-r-d-e-l?
Caller: No. It's Kordell with a "K" and two "l's." K-o-r-d-e-l-l."
Secretary: All right, Mr. Kordell. And your phone number is 560-1287, and the fax
number is 560-1288. 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 [Top]
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.

College Life
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 [Top]
hectic (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.

Daily Schedule
Woman: So, what's your usual day like? You always seem so busy.

Man: Well, I usually get up around 5:00 a.m. and work on the computer until 6:00
a.m.
Woman: Why do you get up so early?
Man: Well, I have to leave home at twenty to seven (6:40 a.m.) 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 a.m.?
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 daytaking care
of our family . . . taking the kids to school, working in the garden, buying groceries,
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 [Top]
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 p.m.
dinner (noun): sometimes supper
- We seldom eat dinner after 8:00 p.m.
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.

The Dating Game

Game Show Host: Hello, everyone and welcome to the Dating Game, where
men and women meet the people of their dreams. Now, let's have
ourcontestants introduce themselves, and then Sarah can ask some
questions. Here we go. Contestant number one.

Ryan: Hi, Sarah. My name is Ryan, nd I'm 27 years old, and I work as a doctor at City
Hospital. I enjoy reading books on history, hiking with my dog, Amelia, and eating
Japanese food. I also like a woman who loves adventure, is open to new ideas, and
likes discussing world politics and government.
Game Show Host: Okay. Well, thank you, Ryan. Let's go on to Contestant Number 2.
Nate: Hi. I'm Nate. I'm 24 years old, and I am a guitar player in a rock band. I love
traveling to new countries, watching action movies, and playing video games with my
friends. And I love women who like my music, don't mind loud rock music, and a person

who loves a good cheeseburger over the grill. I think I'm the man for you.
Game Show Host: Well, thank you Nate. That's Contestant Number 2. Let's go on to
Contestant Number 3.
Charles: Hello. My name is Charles. I'm 29 years old, and I teach English at the
University of Utah. In my free time, I enjoy mountain biking, gardening, and raising
chickens in my back yard. I also help feed the homeless once a week. I also speak three
languages, and I prefer women who have a good sense of humor, and cook all kinds of
food, and who find joy in serving others.
Game Show Host: Well, there we have it. Three contestants. And we will have Sarah ask
these contestants questions after right after this commercial break.

Key Vocabulary [Top]

contestant (noun): a person who takes part in a game or contest
- My brother was a contestant on a game show, and he won
$10,000.
adventure (noun): a dangerous or exciting experience
- Brittany loves adventure, so she will enjoy the camping trip.
discuss (verb): talk about something with a person or group
- You should discuss your plans for the date with Tonya before you
leave.
mind (verb): be bothered by something, dislike
- I don't mind dating people who are interested in different things.
gardening (noun): the hobby of taking care of plants in a garden
- I enjoy gardening in my free time.
prefer (verb): like something or someone better that something
else
- I prefer cooking a meal at home to eating at a restaurant.

 joy (noun): great happiness

- Joy is important in a relationship, and sadness can be turned
to joy with love.
serve (verb): help or give service, volunteer your time
- You can find great joy when you serve family, friends, and
strangers.

DVD Movie Rentals

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 [Top]
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.

Eyeglasses for You

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 [Top]

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.

A Fun Day
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 [Top]

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?

Family Activities
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.

Family Relationships
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.

Vocabulary
Activities [Top]
Now, do these exercises to review the vocabulary. Then, return back to
the Post-Listening Exercise to use the vocabulary in real conversations.
Multiple-Choice and Short-Answer Questions
Mixed-Up Sentence
Sentence and Vocabulary Matching
Text Completion Quiz

First Date
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.
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 [Top]
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?

Train Tickets: Getting Around Tokyo

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 [Top]

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.

Good Old Blues

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 sunup for those
of you who can identify this tune:
[ 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 [Top]
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.

Happy Birthday!
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 [Top]

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.

Health Club
Justin: Uh, hi. Do you need some help with those weights? I can move them
for you.

Rachel: Uh, no. I can do it myself. I just have to put them back over there.
Justin: No, let me help you. Uh, Oh, Hmpf.
Rachel: Oh, it's okay.
Justin: Oh, my back!
Rachel: It's okay, it's okay. Are you okay?
Justin: I just need to lie down here. Uh. Do you come here often?
Rachel: Yeah. I usually come five times a week.
Justin: Oh, oh man. By the way, my name's Justin.
Rachel: I'm Rachel.
Justin: Uh, so, where are you from?
Rachel: I'm originally from California . . . Are you sure you're okay?
Justin: (Said in agony) Yeah, um, I'm okay. Where are you from?
Rachel: Um, I spent most of my life in a small town in Utah called Spanish Fork actually.
Justin: Oh, um, I just need to lie here.
Rachel: Um, so, where are you from, Justin? I'm going to call the manager.
Justin: No, no, no, no, no! I just need to rest. Oh yeah, I'm from, from, uh, from Spanish
Fork.
Rachel: Wait. Are you sure? You're just not thinking right.
Justin: No, no, no. Not Spanish . . . . Ah, No, I'm from Salt Lake City. So, what do you do
for a living anyway? Are you a body builder or something?

Rachel: No, no. I'm a teacher.

Justin: Oh, so what do you teach?
Rachel: I teach math and science, and it doesn't take a science teacher to tell me that you
need a doctor.
Justin: No, I'm okay, I'm okay. I'll stand here in a minute. Uh, could I have your phone
number? You know, just in case.
Rachel: I don't think so. I think 911 is the number you need at this point.
Justin: (Crying in pain) Ohhhh!

Key Vocabulary [Top]

weights (noun): heavy objects that people raise and lower to
exercise
- We are going to lift weights tonight at the gym.
originally (adverb): from the beginning
- I originally played soccer in junior high school, but I switched to
basketball two years later.
agony (noun): a lot of physical or mental pain
- Jacob was in agony when he broke his leg during the basketball
game
town (noun): a small city
- Many people run for exercise in our small town.
at this point (adverb phrase): now
- We have tried a number of activities and sports so far in this gym
class, but at this point, what is your favorite one?

Heavenly Pies Restaurant

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 todine here.
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 [Top]
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.

Thanksgiving and Christmas:

Holiday Traditions
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?
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 [Top]
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.

Homestay in the USA

Brandon: Hey, James. Glad you could make it. Come on in to the living
room.

James: Yeah, uh, thanks for inviting me. As I said, I'm looking for place where I can
have a homestay experience and pick up some English and culture, and . . . Uh, who
is that on your sofa?
Brandon: Oh, that? Ah Randall. Ah, man. He's my roommate.
James: What? How many people live in this house?
Brandon: Well, let's see. There's my American mom and dad, and they have 13 kids.
Uh, the family has four dogs, three cats, a rabbit, and a, oh yeah, a large snake named
Phil. And then there are three international students that share a room with one of the
dogs.
James: No, I don't think this is a good idea. I can't live here.
Brandon: No, man. You'll like it. You and Randall can be roomies.
James: No. No way. I mean, what is Randall like anyway?
Brandon: Oh, Randall? Ah, he's so laid-back, and he gets along witheveryone . . .

when he is awake.
James: What?
Brandon: Yeah, he plays video games about, well until about four in the morning,
but the noise won't bother you much. Just wear earphones. And he can give you a ride
to school . . . uh, when he goes.
James: No, forget it. I'll live with my brother in the dorms.

Key
Vocabulary [Top]
make it (verb): arrive at
- I don't think I can make it to the party tonight.
pick up (verb): learn something
- My sister picked up Russian very quickly during her time in the
country.
roomie (noun): informal for roommate
- Our roomie never cleans the kitchen and leaves his dishes in the
sink.
laid-back (adjective): easy-going, casual, or relaxed personality
- My teacher is very laid-back about everything. I can turn in my
homework late, and she doesn't mind at all.
get along with (verb): have a relationship with
- Why don't you get along with your roommate these days?
dorm (noun): short for dormitory, a building usually a a college or
university where students live
- Are you going to live in the dorms at college next semester?

Hotel Reservations
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 kitchenetteand 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: M-A-E-X-N-E-R.
Hotel Clerk: Okay, Mr. Maexner, we look forward to seeing you on March 20th.

Man: Okay. Goodbye.

Key Vocabulary [Top]

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.

Immigration and Customs

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 [Top]

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

book (verb): to make arrangements in advance

- You ought to book a room at least a month in advance.

luggage (noun): bags used during traveling to carry your things

- You are only allowed two pieces of luggage on this flight.

belongings (noun): your personal property or possessions

- Be sure to collect your belongings before you leave the plane.

Lost in the Crowd

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 baseball cap. You
can find him at the check-out counter at the main exit. Thank you."

Key Vocabulary [Top]

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.

Meeting Singles
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 . . .
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
defensive lineman 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 [Top]
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.

Nice to Meet You

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 [Top]
keep straight (verb): remember clearly
- You need to keep the facts straight if you want to pass the test.
nah: no (informal)
Do you want to come to the party?
Nah. I have other plans that evening.
homemaker (noun): housewife
- His wife is a homemaker.

Party Invitations: Meeting Famous People

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 [Top]

famous (adjective): well known by many people
- My sister is very famous because of her popular novels.
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.
exactly (adverb): specifically
- So, where do you live exactly in the city?
petite (adjective): thin, slender (used for women)
- My sister is very petite, so a extra small shirt would suit her best.
stocky (adjective): solidly built and often strong, but not tall
- The stocky man over by the table is the host of the party.

Party Time!
Jori: Hi Dave. [Hi] Happy to see you could make it. Come on in.

Dave: Wow. Looks like the party is in full 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
and flashy 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 [Top]
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.
outgoing (adjective): very friendly and sociable
- He is very outgoing and always makes newcomers feel
comfortable at a party.
adventurous (adjective): willingness to try new things
- If I were more adventurous, I think I would try mountain climbing.
flashy (adjective): brightly colored or unusually decorated beyond
normal standards
- She tends to wear flashy ski wear during the winter season.

Phone Message
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 [Uhhuh] 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.

Picnic Preparations
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 youwhip up some 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 . . .
[ 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 [Top]
supermarket (noun): a place where you buy food or other
household goods, also grocery store
- She went to the supermarket to buy food for dinner.
talk about (phrasal verb): discuss
- Let's get together after class to talk about tonight's party.
pound (noun): a common measure of weight in 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 food
- He said he bought three packages of cookies to feed the kids an
afternoon snack.
you better (modal of advice): informal for "you 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 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
- 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
- This cake has a nice flavor. I bet she added some cinnamon to the
recipe.
knockout (noun): a very attractive or beautiful woman
- Hey, you'll love her roommate. She's a real knockout, and she isn't
dating anyone.
nah: informal for "no"
- 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

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

Private Language Tutor

Nick: Hi. Uh, are you Sarah?

The Big Sister: No, I'm not. I'm her older sister.
Nick: Well, I'm here to talk to her . . .
The Big Sister: I know why you here.
Nick: Good. Uh, Is Sarah here?
The Big Sister: Um, I first have a couple of questions, and you [had] better answer them.
First of all, what is your name?
Nick: Uh, my name? I'm Nick . . .
The Big Sister: I thought so. Where are you from?
Nick: Um. I'm from Brownsville. Why are you asking me . . .
The Big Sister: Okay. How old are you?
Nick: What!?
The Big Sister: How old are you?
Nick: Does that matter?
The Big Sister: Of course, it matters. I wouldn't be asking otherwise.
Nick: Really?
The Big Sister: Really. Yeah. Sarah's only 19.
Nick: Okay, I'm 22. Now, is Sarah here?
The Big Sister: Where did you first meet Sarah and why do you like her so much?

Nick: Like her? What do you mean? I've only met her once in . . .
The Big Sister: Don't lie to me, Nick.
Nick: Are you sure you have the right guy? Listen. Are you sure? [I'm sure, I'm sure.]
Listen. I'm leaving. I don't need the money THAT much.
The Big Sister: Money? Wait! What do you mean?
Nick: Listen. I'm a teaching assistant at the university, and I met Sarah in the Spanish
class last week. She asked me if I could teach her, you know, help her with her class.
The Big Sister: So, you're not Nick Roberts, that guy that drives that crazy motorcycle?
[No!] The one with the large tattoo of a large snake across his back?
Nick: No! What? You've got the wrong guy. I'm leaving. This whole thing is crazy.

Key Vocabulary [Top]

had better? (modal of advice): have to, must, with a feeling of
possible negative consequences
- You had better find a private teacher and start studying more, or
you will fail the class.
something matters (verb): something is important and makes a
difference
- Good study habits matter in learning and passing classes.
once (adverb): one time
- I had a great teacher once, and she taught the subject very
clearly.
lie (verb): not tell the truth
- Brandon lied and said he took lessons from a private French
teacher, but he can't even say hello in the language.
guy (noun): informal for person, usually a man
- That guy is a real good language tutor if you need help with your
Chinese.

 whole (adjective): full, complete, used to emphasize the noun

- I did poorly on the whole test.

Children's Books: Reading Time

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 [Top]
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
- The book was very boring, so I decided to read a different one.
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.

Video Rental Shop

Store Employee: Hi. May I help you?

Customer: Yeah. I'd like to rent these movies.

Store Employee: Uh, Romance movies!
Customer: Well. They're for my daughter
Store Employee: Right. It's okay. 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 issue to help us keep
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 deal 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 fee equal to the rental fee of
the video, so be sure to return them on time.

Customer: Okay. Store Employee: Okay. And enjoy your romance movies.
Customer: Okay. Thanks.

Key Vocabulary [Top]

issue (verb): provide or give something usually to members of a
group
- The health club issued me a new membership card because I lost
my last one.
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.

Saturday's Chores
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 the baseboards.
[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 rakingleaves and
pulling weeds.

Key
Vocabulary [Top]
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.

Shopping for the Day

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.

Sightseeing Around Town

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 [Top]
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.
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.
to tell (you) the truth (phrase): to be honest
- To tell you the truth, I'm a little afraid to try new foods.
pick up (verb): obtain or get
- I picked up this doll during my last trip to China.
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.

Snack Time!:
Healthy Foods for Kids
Son: Dad!

Father: Yeah, Micky.

Son: Can I have a really goodsnack?
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 [Top]
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 p.m., so we'd better start dinner before the
guests arrive.
out (adjective): not acceptable or possible
- Going to the movie is out tonight. We don't have enough money to
pay for the tickets.
spinach (noun): a dark green leafy vegetable
- Some kids don't like the taste of spinach.

 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.

Medical Advice: What's the Matter?

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'msupposed to take the
medicine three times a day after eating, but it doesn'tseem 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 [Top]
the flu (noun): informal for influenza, like a very bad cold with chills
and fever
- Ashley came down with the flu, and she couldn't go to school for a
week.

 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.

Social Media Web Sites

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'm originally from Canada, but I grew in Texas.
I'm 24 years old, and uh, Igraduated from high school about five years ago, and I'm the
manager of anexotic 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, my hobbies. 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 [Top]

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.

Spending Money
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.

Tell me about yourself

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 ajunior, and I
am majoring ineconomics with a minor in Spanish. I also work part time
as a cashier at a grocery 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 [Top]
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.

Train Tickets
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 ofthese 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 [Top]

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.

Travel Arrangements
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 areavailable?. [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?

Key
Vocabulary [Top]
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.

Travel on Sky Airlines

Captain: Hello everyone, this is the captain speaking, and I want to
welcome you to Flight 18 boundfor 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 our approach 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 [Top]

 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.

Where are you from?

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 ten years in Korea, Germany,
and Okinawa, Japan, and then, we were transferred back to the States
three years ago.
Jenny: Wow. It sounds like you've had an interesting life. So, what do you
do now?
Tom: I'm a university student.
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 computer company
called CompTech downtown.
Tom: No kidding! My brother works there too.