At home

1. Asking Mom for Permission*

Mary: Hi Mom!

Mom: Hi Mary! How was your day at school today?

Mary: I had a good day at school. My classmates are eating ice cream at Mike’s Ice

Cream Store this evening. Can I please go?

Mom: Thank you for asking. Did you finish your homework from school?

Mary: Yes, I finished my homework. Can I please go?

Mom: Okay, you can go with your friends. What time will you be home?

Mary: I will be home at eight o’clock this evening. Thanks, Mom!

Mom: Have fun, Mary!

2. What are you doing?*

Sarah: Hello Ann, how are you?

Ann: I’m well, thank you, Sarah. What are you doing today?

Sarah: I am playing football with my school team. What are you doing?

Ann: I am going to the art museum with my family. Is John playing football with you?

Sarah: No, he isn’t. He is visiting his grandparents in their village today. Do you know

what Tom is doing today?

Ann: Yes, I do. Tom is working in the garden with his parents.

Sarah: I hope you have a good day. I’ll see you later, Ann.

Ann: Goodbye, Sarah!

1

3. Family Duties**

Mother: Joe, where are you?

Joe: I’m here, Mother.

Mother: Why aren’t you cleaning your room? I thought I told you to clean your room.

Joe: I’m sorry. I was watching television. I promise that I will clean my room later today.

Mother: You need to clean your room now because you have other jobs to do today at

home and you also need to finish your schoolwork.

Joe: What other jobs do I need to do today?

Mother: You must sweep the floors, feed the dog, and take these apples to your

grandmother’s house.

Joe: Okay. First, I will clean my room, then I will take the apples to grandmother’s, then I

will feed the dog, and finally I will finish my schoolwork.

Mother: What about sweeping the floors?

Joe: I’m sorry. I don’t have time to do that today. I promise that I will sweep the floors

tomorrow.

Mother: That’s fine. Thank you for your help, Joe.

2

4. Asking mom for permission II**

Mom: Heather, have you finished your homework?

Heather: No, Mom, I haven’t finished my homework yet. Mom, can I go to the movie

theater with my friends at 7:00?

Mom: You can go to the movie theater if you finish your homework first.

Heather: But I already told my friends I could go to the movie theater. I will do my

homework after the movie, Mom.

Mom: If you want to go to the movie theater with your friends, you have to finish your

homework first.

Heather: Dad, can I go to the movies at 7:00 with my friends?

Dad: What did your mother tell you?

Heather: Mom said that I had to finish my homework first.

Dad: Then I suggest you finish your homework, Heather.

Heather: But the movie starts in thirty minutes and my friends are expecting me.

Dad: If you finish your homework Heather, I will let you borrow the car.

Heather: What time do I have to be home?

Dad: At 10:00.

Heather: Can I come home at 11:00?

Dad: If your mother will let you.

Heather: If I finish my homework, can I come home from the movie at 11:00, Mom?

Mom: Yes, Heather, you can come home at 11:00 if you finish your homework.

Heather: Thank you, Mom.

Mom: You are welcome.

3

5. A Healthy Meal***

Cathy: What’s for dinner?

Larry: We are having fried chicken and mashed potatoes for dinner.

Cathy: Do you have any fruits and vegetables?

Larry: Why do you want fruits and vegetables?

Cathy: I want fruits and vegetables because it is better for my body.

Larry: You don’t like fried chicken and mashed potatoes?

Cathy: No, can I have a salad instead?

Larry: I can make you grilled chicken and peppers instead of fried chicken and mashed

potatoes.

Cathy: I would rather have a salad.

Larry: I don’t have any salad.

Cathy: Do you have an apple?

Larry: I have two bananas.

Cathy: Okay, I will have two bananas and a piece of grilled chicken for dinner.

Larry: Okay, I will make you grilled chicken for dinner.

Cathy: Thank you.

4

6. In the kitchen***

Brady: Hey mom, can I help you?

Mom: Thanks Brady, I’m just making some soup for lunch.

Brady: What kind of soup?

Mom: Cream of potato. Can you wash and peel these potatoes please?

Brady: Sure! I love potato soup! With sour cream!

Mom: When we make it together, it will be extra delicious.

Brady: What’s next?

Mom: Well, hand me that pot please, and I will boil the water.

Brady: Here you go. What else?

Mom: Well, now we will just wait for the potatoes to boil and then we will add salt,

pepper, onions, garlic and milk.

Brady: Yum! I’m already hungry! When will it be ready?

Mom: In about an hour. Let’s get you a little snack for now.

Brady: Thanks mom!

5

7. Changing a light bulb***

Linda: Oh, the light bulb just went out.

Linda’s dad: We’d better replace it then. Will you help me with it?

Linda: Sure.

Linda’s dad: It’s pretty high up there, so I’m going to get the ladder. I want you to hold

the bottom of it when I climb up there so it doesn’t fall over.

Linda: Okay, I can do that.

Linda’s dad: You can hold onto the new light bulb too and just give it to me when I ask

for it.

Linda: Alright.

Linda’s dad: I’ll climb up now, are you ready?

Linda: Ready.

Linda’s dad: Groans. This old light bulb is stuck. Ah, there it is. Here Linda, go ahead

and give me the new bulb.

Linda: Here you go.

Linda’s dad: Thanks. Alright, that should do it. Why don’t you test it by flipping the

switch.

Linda flips the switch.

Linda: Hey, it works!

Linda’s dad: Thanks for your help Linda.

Linda: No problem!

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8. My favorite Foods ***

My name is Mary. I am 14 years old and I live in California. There are many things to eat

in California and I like to eat many foods. My favorite food is pizza. I like pizza with lots

of cheese and fresh tomatoes. My mother says that I shouldn’t eat too much pizza

because it is not healthy. I also like to eat apples, bananas, oranges, bread and

hamburgers. My doctor says that I should eat lots of fruits and vegetables to stay healthy.

But I don’t like many vegetables. Potatoes, carrots, and cabbage are okay, and I like them

better than most vegetables. I don’t like milk, cheese, or peppers at all!

My name is Bob. I am 13 years old and I live in New York. People from all over the

world come to New York, so I can eat food from all over the world without leaving my

home city. My favorite food is Italian food like spaghetti and macaroni. I also like

Chinese noodles and Indian curry. My father says that I should eat healthy food if I want

to grow up to be big and tall. Fruits and vegetables are the healthiest foods to eat. I don’t

mind eating vegetables with Japanese rice. But I don’t like fruit at all, and bananas and

lemons are the worst! What do you like to eat?

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9. Cooking***

Carol: You have a lovely house!

Mary: Thank you. Carol. We call it a home.

Carol: It's very close to work, isn't it?

Mary: Yes, it is. I always walk to work - even when it rains!

Carol: I usually take the bus. It takes so long!

Mary: How long does it take?

Carol: Oh, it takes about 20 minutes.

Mary: That is a long time. Oh, here, I made some cake! Try some!

Taking a bite of cake

Carol: This is delicious! Do you bake all of your own cakes?

Mary: Yes, I usually bake something on the weekend. I like having something sweet in

the house.

Carol: You're a wonderful cook!

Mary: Thank you, it's nothing really.

Carol: I never cook. I'm just hopeless. My husband, Landon, usually does all the cooking.

Mary: Do you often go out to eat?

Carol: Yes, when he doesn't have time to cook, we go out to eat somewhere.

Mary: There are some wonderful restaurants in the city.

Carol: Too many! You can eat at a different restaurant every day. Monday - Chinese,

Tuesday - Italian, Wednesday - Mexican, on and on...

Mary: That gets very expensive though, doesn’t it?

Carol: You’re right, it does.

Mary: That’s why I like to cook at home. I make lots of different salads, casseroles and

meat dishes and it isn’t very expensive.

Carol: Well, you do have a talent in the kitchen!

8

10. Interview of daily routine***

A reporter is interviewing a famous actor about his daily routine

Interviewer: Thank you for taking some time off from your busy schedule to answer a

few questions about your life!

Actor: It's my pleasure.

Interviewer: Could you tell us about an average day in your life?

Actor: Sure, I get up early, at 7 in the morning. Then I have breakfast. After breakfast, I

go to the gym and work out1.

Interviewer: Are you working on anything new now?

Actor: Yes, I'm working on a new film called "The Man About Town".

Interviewer: What do you do in the afternoon?

Actor: First, I have lunch at about noon and then I go to the studio and shoot some

scenes.

Interviewer: Which scene are you acting out today?

Actor: I'm acting in a scene about an angry lawyer.

Interviewer: That's very exciting. What do you usually do in the evening?

Actor: In the evening, I go home and have dinner. After dinner I take my dog, Penny, for

a walk. When I get home, I sit in my big armchair and study my scripts.

Interviewer: Do you go out at night?

Actor: Not always, I like to go out on weekends.

Interviewer: Do you have someone to help you with your housework?

Actor: Of course! I am so busy; I don’t have any time to do chores.

Interviewer: Well, thank you for your time.

Actor: No problem.

1 Exercise

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11. Television Repair***

Mary: Something has gone wrong with the TV.

Joan: What’s the matter with it?

Mary: It was working fine before, but now the picture is bad.

Joan: Usually when mine does that I just hit it a few times and that fixes it.

Mary: Hmm…I’ll try it.

Mary hits the top of the TV

Mary: Oh no! That just made it worse!

Joan: Well, what should we do now?

Mary: I’ll call my husband, he’ll be able to fix it.

Joan: Good idea!

Mary dials her husband’s number on the phone

Steve: Hello.

Mary: Hi Steve, the TV is broken. Do you think you can fix it?

Steve: I’ll take a look at it when I get home, I’m almost there.

Mary: Okay, thanks.

Steve: No problem, see you in just a minute.

Mary: Bye.

Mary hangs up the phone

Joan: What did he say?

Mary: He said he will try.

Joan: Oh look, here he comes now.

Steve opens the front door and comes in

Mary: Hi honey, how was your day?

Steve: It was good, lets take a look at that TV.

Joan: It was working fine just an hour ago, I don’t know what happened!

Mary: See, the picture is bad.

Steve: I’ll get my tools and see if I can get it to work.

Steve gets his tools, then takes the TV apart and puts it back together again

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Steve: Now lets try to turn it on and see…

Mary: Nope, it’s just the same as it was.

Steve: Oh well, I did my best.

Joan: Time to call the repairman.

Mary: They always cost a fortune! I guess we have no choice.

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English practice12. Toothache - You’d better*

Justin: Hey Mika, how’s it going?

Mika: Oh, just o.k. I have a bad toothache.

Justin: Oh no! You’d better go to the dentist!

Mika: Yeah, I will.

Justin: Get well soon!

Mika: Thanks a lot!

13. Describing Appearance**

A Telephone conversation

Bill: Hello, Jill. I’m calling to remind you to meet me at the airport tomorrow.

Jill: I will remember to meet you at the airport tomorrow. But I have not seen you in

seven years and I cannot remember what you look like. Are you tall or short?

Bill: I am very tall. I am 6 feet and 2 inches tall.

Jill: Please tell me more about yourself.

Bill: I have a beard and a mustache. My hair is black but I like to wear a green hat. And I

am still skinny.

Jill: Do you still wear glasses?

Bill: Yes, I still wear glasses. They are brown. Tomorrow, I will wear jeans and a black

jacket.

Jill: Thank you. I will see you tomorrow at the airport.

Bill: Goodbye.

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14. Bad grades - You’d better**

Daughter: Hey Dad!

Dad: Hello dear! How was school today?

Daughter: Well, I need to talk to you about that.

Dad: What’s the matter?

Daughter: Um, I got really bad grades in Spanish class.

Dad: Oh no! Well, you’d better study hard and do your homework every day.

Daughter: Yes, I will!

15. Whose is this?**

A mother is cleaning out a closet

Mom: Does anyone know whose coat this is?

Son: It’s mine, mom. Thanks.

Mom: And whose is this hat?

Son: That’s also mine!

Mom: And these shoes? Whose are these shoes?

Son: Mom! Everything in the closet is mine!

Mom: Well, put them in your room then! This is our family closet, not just yours.

Son: Ok.

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16. Asking for clarification***

Ellie: Hi Marco, how is your English coming along?

Marco: Oh, it’s ok. It’s so hard for me to understand people when they speak so fast.

Ellie: I know what you mean. When I was in Italy, it was difficult to understand everyone

with their different dialects.

Marco: I have an idea! Why don’t we start a language exchange club? Sometimes we can

speak in English and sometimes in Italian. That way we can both get practice!

Ellie: That’s a good idea! We can invite other students who are interested in reciprocating

conversation.

Marco: Wha- what-ing conversation?

Ellie: Reciprocating.

Marco: What does that mean?

Ellie: It’s just a fancy word for exchange, something that is done by both people.

Marco: Oh, thanks for the explanation. See, I need all the practice I can get!

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17. A Busy Day – have to***

Two friends meet each other jogging

Bob: Hi Katherine, how are you today?

Katherine: I'm great and you?

Bob: VERY busy! I'm jogging now, but later I have to do a lot!

Katherine: What do you have to do?

Bob: Well, first of all, I have to do the shopping. We don't have anything to eat at home.

Katherine: ... and then?

Bob: Johnny has a basketball game this afternoon. I'm driving him to the game.

Katherine: Oh, how is his team doing?

Bob: They're doing very well. Next week, they're traveling to Toronto for a tournament.

Katherine: That's impressive.

Bob: Well, Johnny likes playing basketball. I'm happy he's enjoying it. What are you

doing today?

Katherine: I'm not doing much. I'm meeting some friends for lunch, but, other than that, I

don't have much to do today.

Bob: You're so lucky!

Katherine: No, you're the lucky one. I'd like to have so many things to do.

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18. Where would you go?***

Pam: If you could go anywhere right now, where would you go?

Michael: Oh, that’s a tough question! If I could go anywhere right now, I would go to

Hawaii. The beach, the fruit, the sun…

Pam: Yeah, Hawaii would be nice. I would rather go someplace metropolitan though. If I

could go anywhere right now I would go to Singapore. There it is neither hot nor cold and

it is very clean.

Michael: Wow, Singapore. I guess I never thought about traveling to Asia.

Pam: Don’t you know what a big world we live in? There is so much to explore!

Michael: You’re right! But I would rather wait until I have some money saved, then I will

travel!

Pam: Until then, let’s talk about all the fabulous places there are to visit…

16

At school

19. Asking Permission to Be Excused*

Eric: Mr. Smith, may I go to the bathroom?

Mr. Smith: Not right now, Eric. You need to be working on your essay.

Eric: But I really need to go to the bathroom.

Mr. Smith: Why didn’t you go during your break?

Eric: I had to go see Mrs. Miller to get help with a math problem.

Mr. Smith: Okay, that was a good use of your time. You may go, but come right back,

okay?

Eric: Okay, thank you.

20. About my vacation*

Kate: What did you do on vacation?

Jon: I went hiking with my best friend. What did you do?

Kate: I rested a lot and went to the movie theater with my friends. Where did you and

your friend go hiking?

Jon: We went to the mountains and we slept in a tent. It was very cold but we enjoyed it.

Kate: My friends do not like cold weather. They like warm weather. That is why they

stayed at home during vacation.

Jon: What movie did you watch with your friends?

Kate: It was a mystery movie. We liked it very much, but it was scary.

Jon: I went to the movie theater yesterday, but I did not watch a mystery movie. I do not

like scary movies. That is why I watched a comedy. It was very funny and not scary.

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21. After School Plans I**

Tom: Kate, what are you doing after school?

Kate: Oh, nothing much. I will just walk home through the park and do my homework.

You?

Tom: I was thinking about going bowling. Do you want to go?

Kate: Oh, that sounds fun! I haven’t bowled in ages! I don’t think I’m any good.

Tom: Oh, it will be fine! I am meeting my cousins there and they can drive you home

afterwards.

Kate: Okay, thanks for the invitation!

Tom: No problem. I will meet you at the entrance at 3 PM.

Kate: Okay! See you after school.

22. After School Plans II**

Sue: Hey Markie! How are you?

Markie: I’m fine, thanks! Hey, what are you doing after school?

Sue: I have to go home and watch my little brother. My parents are going out tonight.

Markie: Oh, that’s too bad! I wanted to invite you to my house.

Sue: Oh, well thanks anyway! Maybe another time.

Markie: Cool, let me know when you have time.

Sue: Okay, I will.

23. After School Plans III*

Nat: Are you busy now?

June: No, do you want to do something together?

Nat: Sure. We can go to my house and play video games.

June: No, I want to be outside. How about volleyball?

Nat: Okay! Let’s play in the park.

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June: Come on, let’s go!

24. School Dance**

Thomas: Hello Ellen! How are you today?

Ellen: Hello Thomas! I am great. How are you?

Thomas: I am fine. Do you know about the dance next Friday?

Ellen: Yes, I know about it. Are you going to it?

Thomas: Yes, I am going. I love to dance and listen to music. Are you going to the

dance?

Ellen: No. I really want to go but I have to stay at home.

Thomas: Why? Did you get in trouble?

Ellen: No. My sister’s birthday is also next Friday and my mother is cooking a special

dinner.

25. On the way to school**

Two friends walking to school

Damon: Good morning, Betsy.

Betsy: Good morning.

Damon: Did you finish your French homework?

Betsy: Of course. I love French!

Damon: What’s your first class today?

Betsy: I have Science, it’s on the second floor so I have to hurry. What about you?

Damon: I have P.E.2 so I have to hurry too and get changed in the locker room.

Betsy: Okay, see you at lunch.

Damon: Okay, bye.

2 Physical education

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26. Conversation with the teacher**

Sally: Hi Mr. Henry.

History Teacher: Good morning Sally.

Sally: I’m sorry I wasn’t at school yesterday. I wasn’t feeling very well.

History Teacher: I am happy to see that you feel better today.

Sally: Thank you. What was our homework for today?

History Teacher: To read chapter 6 in your book, about World War I. Today we will

discuss it.

Sally: Thank you very much Mr. Henry

History Teacher: Mm hmm. See you in class.

27. Professions**

Paul: Hi Mary

Mary: Hi Paul. How are you?

Paul: I am good, Mary.

Mary: What is your father’s profession?

Paul: My father is an engineer.

Paul: What does your father do Mary?

Mary: My father is a teacher.

Paul: Wow, that’s what I want to be when I grow up.

Mary: You want to be a teacher?

Paul: Yes, I want to be a teacher.

Mary: Why do you want to be a teacher, Paul?

Paul: I want to be a teacher because I like school and want to help kids learn.

Paul: What do you want to be when you grow up Mary?

Mary: I want to be a doctor because I like science.

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28. After Graduation**

Teacher: Natasha, are you excited to graduate next week?

Natasha: Yes, I am very excited!

Teacher: What will you do after you graduate?

Natasha: I will attend the university.

Teacher: What will you study?

Natasha: I will study English and teaching.

Teacher: Do you want to be an English teacher?

Natasha: Yes, after I finish university, I plan to be a teacher. I will take many courses in

English because I want to be an English teacher.

Teacher: What do your parents think?

Natasha: My father wants me to study law because he is a lawyer. My mother wants me

to study literature because she is an author. But they are both happy that I am going to the

university. Do you enjoy teaching?

Teacher: Yes, I enjoy teaching very much. It is difficult, but it is rewarding. I think you

will be a great teacher.

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29. Plans for the Future***

Jim: Can you believe that we are about to graduate, Paul?

Paul: I know, Jim. Are you going to get a job after school?

Jim: I think that I am going to go to university after school.

Paul: What do you want to study in university?

Jim: I want to be a lawyer because I think that people deserve to be treated equally. What

are you going to do after school?

Paul: My dad wants me to be an engineer, but I want to be a chef.

Jim: Why do you want to be a chef?

Paul: I like cooking for my friends and family. Someday, I want to own a restaurant.

Jim: What are you going to do after school, Sally?

Sally: I think I am going to be an actress. I have always liked the theater, and I enjoy

performing in front of people.

Jim: Can I have your autograph in case you’re famous one day?

Sally: Sure Jim, and if I get in trouble, you can defend me.

22

30. Picking out a book at the library***

Melissa: Excuse me, I’m looking for a book. Can you help me?

Librarian: Of course, what are you looking for?

Melissa: I’m looking for a book on zoology.

Librarian: Are you looking for a specific book, or just one on the topic of zoology?

Melissa: I don’t have a particular one in mind, I’m just looking for a book to help me

write a report.

Librarian: Okay, the books in the library are organized by topic. Let me take you to the

section about zoology.

Melissa: Thanks!

Librarian: There are lots of books here, you can browse for a few minutes and find what

you need.

Melissa: How many books am I allowed to check out at once?

Librarian: You can have up to five books at one time. Anything else I can help you

with?

Melissa: That’s all for now.

Librarian: When you’re ready to check out, I’ll be up front to help you with that.

Melissa: Thanks so much for your help!

Librarian: You’re welcome.

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31. My dreams and goals***

Teacher: Today, I would like to hear about your dreams and goals for the future. Even if

you don’t know for sure what you would like to do or where you would like to be, it is

still good to talk about your future. Any thoughts?

Student 1: My dream is to become a pilot. I have always wanted to learn how to fly and

fly all around the world.

Teacher: That’s an excellent dream. Who else wants to share?

Student 2: My goal for the next few years is to finish college with a bachelor’s degree,

and my dream is to join the Peace Corps.

Teacher: That’s great! Why the Peace Corps?

Student 2: Because I want to help people in different countries and also to travel.

Teacher: Very nice. You see, we all have different goals, dreams and aspirations. Each

one of us is unique and we want different things out of life. It is important to always have

dreams and goals, as they help us to become better people.

Student 1: What is your dream?

Teacher: Well, I love teaching, but soon I want to start a family. This is my goal for right

now, and my dream is to see my family grow and be happy.

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32. American Library****

Librarian: Hello, how can I help you?

Brian: I’m looking for a book about psychology.

Librarian: Are you looking for a specific book?

Brian: No, but it is about a specific topic. I’m interested in language in animals.

Librarian: Oh, I see. Our books are organized by topic and then by author in

alphabetical order.

Brian: So, where can I start looking?

Librarian: Our psychology section is over there, but if you want to find a book on one

particular topic, the best way is to search for it using the computer.

Brian: How do I do that?

Librarian: Let’s just sit down at a computer here and I’ll show you.

Brian: Okay.

Librarian: All the books in the library have a record in the computer. You can search for

any book you want by topic, author, title, or publication date.

Brian: Wow! So, to find a book on language in animals…

Librarian: You would just select that you want to search by topic and then type

“language” and “animals” into the box.

Brian: And click “search.”

Librarian: Yes, and the results will come up right here.

Brian: It looks like it’s finished.

Librarian: Yes, it found 137 books about the topics “language” and “animals.”

Brian: That’s great!

Librarian: Now you can look at the information about each of these books and see which

one you would like to check out.

Brian: I see, it gives me a short description about each book.

Librarian: Yes, exactly.

Brian: What about this one, “The Language Instinct.”

Librarian: No one has checked it out, so it’s currently available.

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Brian: But how do I find this book in the library?

Librarian: That’s easy, you just look at the call number. It’s right here.

Brian: PSY.926.453.21W

Librarian: That tells you it is in the psychology section. The books are in order by

number. The smallest numbers start on the left and they get bigger as you move to the

right.

Brian: Let’s see if we can find it then.

Librarian: Just write down the number on a little piece of paper so you don’t forget it and

go look for it!

Brian: Okay, P-S-Y-9-2-6-4-5-3-2-1-W. And I look over here….aha! There it is. “The

Language Instinct.”

Librarian: Now, if you want to check it out, just bring it to the counter over there and

show the librarians working at the counter your library card.

Brian: Library card?

Librarian: If you don’t have one yet, they will get you one.

Brian: Okay, thanks!

Librarian: You’re welcome, enjoy your book!

Brian: Thanks, bye.

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Using the phone

33. Wrong number*

The phone rings

Rhonda: Hello?

Ken: Hello, this is Ken. May I speak with Andy?

Rhonda: Who?

Ken: Andy! Is Andy home?

Rhonda: I’m sorry; you’ve got the wrong number!

Ken: Oh, isn’t this 555-2121?

Rhonda: Nope, its 554-2121

Ken: Oh, I’m sorry!

Rhonda: No problem.

34. Phone conversation*

Phone is ringing

Thora’s Dad: Hello?

Jill: Hello! This is Jill. May I speak with Thora?

Thora’s Dad: Hi Jill. Oh course, I’ll get her.

Thora comes to the phone

Thora: Hello?

Jill: Hi Thora, its Jill!

Thora: Hi Jill! How are you?

Jill: I’m ok, and you?

Thora: I’m good. What’s up?

Jill: I was calling to see if you want to come over for dinner tonight.

Thora: Oh, ok! What time?

Jill: Seven o’clock.

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Thora: Great, see you then!

Jill: See ya!

35. Calling information**

Phone rings.

Operator: Hello, this is information. What city, please.

Joe: Louisville, Kentucky

Operator: And what is the name of the listing?

Joe: Chris’ Auto Parts.

Operator: Just one moment, I’m looking.

Joe: Okay, thanks.

Operator: Here it is. The phone number for Chris’ Auto Parts is (761) 555-1734. Would

you like the address for this listing?

Joe: No thank you, the phone number is all I need.

Operator: Would you like me to connect you for an extra fee of fifty cents?

Joe: No thanks, goodbye.

Operator: Bye.

36. Taking a message I**

The phone rings. Cindy answers it.

Cindy: Hello?

Mark: Hi, is Cathy there?

Cindy: No, she’s not here right now. Can I take a message?

Mark: Yeah, just tell her that Mark called and that I’m going to the movies with some

friends this afternoon if she wants to come.

Cindy: Okay, I’ll let her know when she gets home. Anything else?

Mark: Yeah, tell her her friend Carla will be there too.

Cindy: Okay.

Mark: Please make sure she gets the message.

Cindy: I will, I promise.

28

Mark: Thanks, bye.

Cindy: Bye.

37. Ordering a pizza for delivery**

The phone rings

Server: Hello, you’ve reached Pizza King. If it’s not there in thirty minutes, it’s free!

May I take your order?

Trudie: Yes, I’d like three large pizzas, please. One with black olives, garlic, and

mushrooms, one with pepperoni and sausage, and the last just plain cheese.

Server: Okay, let me read this back to you. Three large pizzas. One with green olives,

garlic, and mushrooms, another with pepperoni and sausage, and the third just plain

cheese.

Trudie: That’s correct, but on the first pizza I’d like black olives, not green olives.

Server: Okay, got it. Would you like drinks or cheesy bread with that?

Trudie: No thanks.

Server: May I have your address please?

Trudie: It’s 607 Maple Drive.

Server: Okay, your total is $37.14 and it will be there in about 20-30 minutes. Thank

you for choosing Pizza King.

Trudie: Thanks very much.

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38. Taking a message II***

The phone rings

Jane: Hello?

Ken: Hello, this is Ken. May I speak with Andy?

Jane: I'm afraid Andy isn't in at the moment.

Ken: Could you take a message?

Jane: Sure, just a moment let me get a pencil... OK.

Ken: Great. Can you tell Andy that we're meeting tomorrow at three o'clock.

Jane: OK ... three o'clock meeting with Ken. Does he know where the meeting is?

Ken: Tell him we'll be meeting in the corner office downtown.

Jane: Yes, corner office downtown. Is there anything else?

Ken: I'll leave my telephone number just in case he doesn't have it.

Jane: OK, I'm ready.

Ken: Yes, my cell phone number is 439 908 7754.

Jane: Ok, That's 439 808 7754.

Ken: No, it's 439 908 7754.

Jane: Ah, sorry.

Ken: No problem. Thanks for your help.

Jane: I'll make sure Andy sees this as soon as he gets in tonight.

Ken: Thank you, bye.

Jane: Bye!

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39. Making a Dinner Reservation***

Phone conversation between a restaurant and a customer

Server: Good Evening South Lake Grill, how may I help you?

Customer: Hello, I'd like to make a dinner reservation for Friday, please.

Server: Certainly, I'd be happy to help you with that. How many people are there in your

party?

Customer: There'll be four people.

Server:... and what time would you like to make a reservation for?

Customer: Let's say seven o'clock.

Server: I'm afraid we don't have anything available then. We could seat you at six o'clock

or at eight o'clock.

Customer: Oh, OK. Let's make the reservation for eight o'clock.

Server: Fine, eight o'clock on Friday evening for four people. May have your last name?

Customer: Yes, it's Ivanovich.

Server: I’m sorry, could you spell that?

Customer: Sure, it’s I-V-A-N-O-V-I-C-H.

Server: Thank you. I have a table for four for the Ivanovich party at eight o'clock on

Friday evening.

Customer: Thank you very much.

Server: You're welcome. We'll see you on Friday.

Customer: Yes, see you then. Goodbye.

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40. Cell phone conversation***

Peter: Hello.

Alex: Hi Peter, it’s Alex.

Peter: Oh, hi Alex. How are you today?

Alex: I’m doing pretty well, how about you?

Peter: I had a rough day today. I have lots of homework and I have three exams on

Monday.

Alex: Oh, that’s too bad. I was calling to see if you wanted to do something this

weekend.

Peter: I’d love to, but I have so much work that I don’t think I will be able to.

Alex: Are you sure? John is having a party and EVERYONE is coming. It’s going to be

lots of fun and Deborah is coming too.

Peter: Really? Deborah?

Alex: Yeah, if you come you can talk with her. You two might have a good time

together.

Peter: I really don’t think she’d want to talk to me.

Alex: Why not? She loved that story you told her about that time we went camping.

Peter: Oh, hold on a second Alex. Someone else is calling me.

Alex: Okay

Click

Peter: Hello

Peter’s mom: Hi Peter.

Peter: Hi Mom.

Peter’s mom: Can you get some milk on the way home?

Peter: Sure. I’ll get it, but I have to go. I’ve got Alex on the other line.

Peter’s mom: I hope you’re not seeing him this weekend, you know you have to study

for school!

Peter: I know Mom, I’ve got to go.

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Peter’s mom: Okay, bye.

Peter: Bye.

Click

Peter: Okay, I’m back.

Alex: So what do you say?

Peter: I want to, but I really can’t.

Alex: Are you sure? Tom is going to be there too and you know that he’s going to try to

talk to her.

Peter: Really? I hate that guy!

Alex: Well, what are you going to do about it?

Peter: Fine, I’m coming.

Alex: Great, see you tomorrow night.

Peter: Okay, see you then.

33

Health

41. I hurt myself*

Doctor: Good morning, Tommy. How are you today?

Tommy: Good morning, Doctor. Thank you for seeing me. I don’t feel well today.

Doctor: What’s the matter?

Tommy: I think I hurt myself yesterday.

Doctor: What were you doing yesterday?

Tommy: In the morning, I was running in the park when I fell down and cut my knee.

Doctor: I’m sorry to hear that. Does your knee hurt?

Tommy: Yes, but that’s not all. Yesterday afternoon, I was riding my bicycle when I fell

off and hit my head on the ground.

Doctor: Your head and your knee? Does anything else hurt?

Tommy: Yes. Yesterday evening, I was walking down the stairs when I fell and hurt my

arm.

Doctor: So your knee, your head, and your arm all hurt now?

Tommy: Yes, they all hurt. What should I do, doctor?

Doctor: I will give you some pills to take to make the hurt go away. You should take the

pills. And you should also be more careful!

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42. I don’t feel well*

On the Phone

Kristina: Hello?

Ian: Hi Kristina, how are you today?

Kristina: I am not well today.

Ian: Oh no! Why not?

Kristina: I feel very ill.

Ian: Why? What’s the matter?

Kristina: I think I caught the flu.

Ian: That’s not good. What are your symptoms?

Kristina: I feel terrible. I feel hot, tired, my throat hurts and my back aches.

Ian: I’m sorry! Are you going to go to school today?

Kristina: No, I can’t go to school today. I need to sleep.

Ian: Ok. I hope you feel better tomorrow! Get well soon!

Kristina: Thanks Ian. Goodbye!

Ian: Bye!

35

43. Calling the Doctor**

Receptionist: Hello, Dr. Smith’s office.

Mrs. Brown: Good morning, I need to speak with the doctor please.

Receptionist: Is this an emergency? Do you need an ambulance to the hospital?

Mrs. Brown: No, I only have a cold.

Receptionist: One moment please.

The receptionist calls Dr. Smith

Dr. Smith: Hello, this is Dr. Smith.

Mrs. Brown: Hi doctor, this is your patient Mrs. Brown. I have a temperature, a headache

and a cough.

Dr. Smith: Well, it sounds like you’ve caught the flu! Stay in bed, gargle water with salt

and take medicine to bring your temperature down.

Mrs. Brown: What medicine?

Dr. Smith: Ibuprofen will work best.

Mrs. Brown: Thank you so much doctor!

Dr. Smith: Of course. Call me tomorrow if you’re not better. Get well soon!

36

44. Calling in sick to school***

A mother calls in to school to tell her child will miss the day

Receptionist: Good morning, Washington Middle School, this is Chris. How may I help

you?

Mother: Good morning, this is Alice Moore, I'm calling for my daughter, Judy. She's not

feeling well today and will miss school.

Receptionist: I'm sorry to hear that. I hope it's not too bad.

Mother: No, no she has a little fever and a cough. Nothing too serious.

Receptionist: Well, I hope she feels well soon.

Mother: Thank you. Do you think I could get her homework for today?

Receptionist: Uh, is there any specific class?

Mother: I'm especially concerned about math and science.

Receptionist: OK, is it alright for me to give your e-mail address to the teachers? They

can then send the homework along later today.

Mother: That would be great. Do you have my e-mail on file?

Receptionist: Just a moment...we have amoore@gmail.com. Is that correct?

Mother: Yes, that is correct.

Receptionist: OK, I'll make sure Mr. Brown and Ms. White get your message and e-mail.

Mother: Thank you very much.

Receptionist: I hope Judy feels well soon.

Mother: She should be fine by tomorrow. Thanks for your help.

Receptionist: My pleasure, have a nice day.

Mother: Thank you. Bye.

Receptionist: Bye.

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45. A Healthy Lifestyle***

Sharon: What do you wanna to do today, Todd?

Todd: I’ve been sitting at my desk all week at work, I’d really like to get some exercise.

Sharon: What were you thinking? Jogging, swimming, sports?

Todd: How do you feel about mountain biking? It can be lots of fun!

Sharon: Sure, I love mountain biking!

Todd: Then maybe we can get some lunch afterwards.

Sharon: I want to get something healthy, like a big green salad.

Todd: Okay, that sounds good.

Sharon: Simone is having a party in the evening, do you want to go?

Todd: Simone’s parties usually just involve lots of drinking. Everyone smokes too. I

don’t think it would be good for us. My friend Frankie is having a get-together tonight

too. Maybe that would be more fun?

Sharon: Yeah, I think you’re right. Sounds like we’ve got a great plan for today!

Todd: Yeah, let’s go get those bikes!

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46. Making a Doctor's Appointment***

Receptionist: Dr. Peterson's office. How may I help you?

David: I'd like to make an appointment to see the doctor.

Receptionist: Certainly, are you ill at the moment?

David: Yes, I'm not feeling very well.

Receptionist: Do you have a fever, or any other symptoms?

David: Yes, I have a slight fever and aches and pains.

Receptionist: OK, Dr. Peterson can see you tomorrow. Can you come in the morning?

David: Yes, tomorrow morning is fine.

Receptionist: How about 10 o'clock?

David: Yes, 10 o'clock is fine.

Receptionist: May have your name?

David: Yes, it's David Lain.

Receptionist: Have you seen Dr. Peterson before?

David: Yes, I had a physical exam last year.

Receptionist: Yes, here you are. OK, I've scheduled for ten o'clock tomorrow morning.

David: Thank you.

Receptionist: Drink plenty of warm fluids and get a good night's sleep!

David: Thank you. I'll do my best. Goodbye.

Receptionist: See you tomorrow. Goodbye.

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47. Calling an ambulance***

Phone rings.

Emergency operator: 911, what is your emergency?

John: I need an ambulance, quick!

Emergency operator: What’s your emergency?

John: My friend fell off his bike into the street.

Emergency operator: What is your location?

John: I’m at the entrance to Evergreen State College.

Emergency operator: We’re sending someone now, they should be there in about five

minutes.

John: Ok, thank you.

Emergency operator: Is your friend conscious?

John: Yes, I think he’ll be okay, but it looks like he might have a few broken bones.

Emergency operator: Okay, just leave him where he is. Try not to move him. I’m going

to get off the line now, I have another call coming in. Please call again if it’s necessary.

John: Okay, thank you for your help.

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48. At the doctor’s office***

Doctor: What seems to be the trouble?

Jackie: I have a really bad pain in my stomach.

Doctor: How long has it been there?

Jackie: Since yesterday, it hasn’t let up at all.

Doctor: Have you eaten anything unusual lately?

Jackie: No, I’ve been on a very strict diet for the last month. I don’t think I’ve eaten

anything that could have caused this.

Doctor: I see, let me examine you. I’m going to touch different parts of your stomach.

Let me know if it hurts.

Jackie: Okay. That’s fine. No problem there. That hurts a little. Ouch! That’s really

painful.

Doctor: I’m going to need to run some more tests to confirm, but I’m pretty sure the

problem is your appendix.

Jackie: Will I need to have it removed?

Doctor: Yes, I think so. It’s a very standard procedure so there’s no need to worry.

Jackie: That’s a relief.

Doctor: The nurse will be here for you in a few minutes to do the tests. I’ll come and

check up on you later.

Jackie: Okay, thank you very much for you help.

41

49. Calling in Sick****

The phone starts ringing. Henrietta answers it.

Henrietta: Hello, this is Henrietta at Southside elementary school, how may I help you?

Maureen: Hi Henrietta, this is Maureen, the math teacher. I’m calling to tell you that I

won’t be able to come school today.

Henrietta: What’s the matter?

Maureen: I’m feeling very sick. I think I might have a cold.

Henrietta: I’m very sorry to hear that. What symptoms are you having?

Maureen: Some congestion, a sore throat, and nausea. It’s nothing too serious, but I

don’t want to get the students and other teachers sick.

Henrietta: Yeah, the best thing for you to do right now is to stay home and get well.

We’ll need to find a substitute teacher though. Can you recommend someone?

Maureen: Colleen Lancaster taught my classes last time I was ill. She did a good job and

the students seemed to like her.

Henrietta: Oh, I don’t think she’ll be able to come in. She’s at a conference right now.

Maureen: In that case, I’m really not sure. I guess you’ll have to try someone new.

Henrietta: Okay, I’ll see who I can find. You don’t need to worry about that though.

Just try to rest and get well soon.

Maureen: I will, and I’ll call you tomorrow to tell you whether I’ll be able to come in.

Henrietta: Okay, talk to you then.

Maureen: Bye.

42

Miscellaneous

50. The story of the dog, frog and mouse*

One cold and windy December day, a mouse was walking through the forest. He was

looking for a warm place to sleep when finally, he came upon a house.

“Who lives in this house?” asked the mouse.

Nobody answered.

“Then I shall live in this house,” said the mouse.

Later that day, a young dog came to the house.

“Who lives in this house?” asked the young dog.

“I do,” said the mouse.

“May I live in your house?” asked the young dog.

“Of course!” said the mouse. “Please come in!”

So, the young dog and the mouse lived happily together in the house.

Later that day, an old frog came to the house.

“Who lives in this house?” asked the frog.

“We do,” said the young dog and the mouse.

“May I live in your house?” asked the frog.

“Of course!” said the young dog and the mouse. “Please come in!”

So, the young dog, the old frog and the mouse lived happily together in the house.

Later that day, a hungry fox came to the house.

“Who lives in this house?” asked the hungry fox.

“We do,” said the young dog, the old frog and the mouse.

“May I live in your house?” asked the hungry fox.

The young dog, the old frog and the mouse looked at each other. They didn’t trust the

hungry fox.

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“No, you may not live in our house,” said the young dog, the old frog and the mouse.

“Please go away!”

“Well, if I may not live in your house, then I will come in and eat you!” said the hungry

fox.

The young dog, the old frog and the mouse were not afraid. Perhaps alone they were each

small and weak. But together, they were strong! So, the young dog, the old frog and the

mouse chased the fox away together. They returned to the house tired, but safe. And so

on this cold, windy December day, the young dog, the old frog and the mouse continued

to live happily together in the house.

51. Telling the time I*

Bill: Excuse me. Can you tell me the time, please?

Stranger: Yes, of course. It's seven o'clock.

Bill: Thank you.

Stranger: No problem.

52. Telling the time II**

Steven: What time is it?

Jill: It's half past three.

Steven: Oh, I have to be home in a half an hour!

Jill: Why?

Steven: My mother comes home at four o’clock and I have to help her make dinner.

Jill: Ok, see you tomorrow!

Steven: See ya!

44

53. Describing an animal**

Dan: Jessica, did you know that there are two types of elephants?

Jessica: No, I did not know that there are two types of elephants, Dan. What are the two

types?

Dan: Well, there is the African elephant and the Asian elephant. You will recognize an

elephant by its trunk. The elephant is large, gray, and picks up food to eat with its trunk.

Jessica: How are these two types different?

Dan: The African elephant is bigger than the Asian elephant. The African elephant can be

as tall as three meters and the Asian elephant is about 2.7 meters tall.

Jessica: Elephants are very large animals! Do you know how much a baby elephant

weighs?

Dan: Let me look in my book. Here it is! It says: A baby elephant weighs ninety

kilograms and is one meter tall!

Jessica: Oh my! Elephants are an interesting animal.

54. A Police officer’s job**

Hello! My name is Sam. I am a policeman. My job is very hard but very important. Every

day, I walk around the city and make sure people follow the rules. Usually, people follow

the rules. But sometimes, people do no follow the rules. If somebody breaks a rule, I have

to give him or her a fine. People do not like to get a fine because they have to pay a lot of

money. That is why most people follow the rules.

45

55. Environmental Protection**

Roberto: Thank you for the chocolate, Grace. It was delicious.

Grace: No problem, Roberto.

Roberto: Grace, why did you throw the plastic bag on the ground?

Grace: Oh, someone will pick it up later.

Roberto: Grace, I don’t think this is a good idea. We have a lot of garbage in our

community and it should not be here. It makes our community look dirty.

Grace: Well, I don’t see what the problem is, Roberto. Our community is not dirty, it’s

fine.

Roberto: Grace, if everyone throws their plastic bags on the ground, our community will

be a mess! Why do you think you can do this? You need to be responsible for your

garbage.

Grace: You’re right. I’m sorry. I will make sure I don’t leave garbage in my community.

56. Asking for advice**

Ken: Hi Mom.

Ken’s Mom: Hi Ken, how was school today?

Ken: It was good. My teacher gave me this form, I need to decide whether I want to take

Spanish or French next year. I really don’t know which one I should take. What do you

think?

Ken’s Mom: Well, you know I speak French so I would be able to help you with French,

but your Dad speaks Spanish, so he could help you with that if you needed it.

Ken: That’s good, but it doesn’t help me choose.

Ken’s Mom: Well, which language do you think would be more useful to you?

Ken: Lots of people speak Spanish around here. And my friend Maria, her family speaks

Spanish.

46

Ken’s Mom: Well, that sounds like it would be a good choice then. Why don’t you take

Spanish?

Ken: Okay, I will! Can you sign this form for me and I’ll hand it in tomorrow?

Ken’s Mom: Sure.

57. Giving an opinion***

Charlie: Hey Jamie, how are you doing today?

Jamie: Pretty well, what about you?

Charlie: I’m great, I have a date tonight!

Jamie: Cool, what are you guys going to do?

Charlie: I’m really not sure! I was thinking we’d go out for dinner, but I don’t know

where.

Jamie: Do you know where you should go? There’s this really great Italian restaurant

called Mario’s. All their pasta is homemade and their salads are fantastic.

Charlie: Oh, thanks for the advice.

Jamie: What about after dinner? Where are you going to take her after dinner?

Charlie: Maybe I’ll just walk her home.

Jamie: Are you crazy? You should go out afterwards, have a little fun.

Charlie: What do you suggest?

Jamie: You could take her to Grant Park. It’s so beautiful there, especially in the

evening. Plus, there will be live music there tonight. She’ll love it, I’m sure.

Charlie: Okay, that’s a really good idea.

Jamie: Sure, no problem.

47

58. Chat about weather***

Tammy: Isn’t it a lovely day today?

Dwight: You think so? It’s too hot for me and the sun is blinding!

Tammy: We hardly saw the sun all winter long, now that it’s here I’m enjoying it.

Dwight: That’s true, but I wish there were a few more clouds in the sky. It would be

much cooler.

Tammy: At least we have the wind. There’s nothing more refreshing than a cool breeze.

Dwight: Do you know what would really cool things down? A little rain!

Tammy: But then we’d be stuck inside! We wouldn’t be able to have any fun!

Dwight: There’s lots of things you can do on a rainy day. Watch TV, play computer

games, cards, board games…plus, it’s good for the trees and grass.

Tammy: You can do those things any time. I want to be outside! On a clear day you can

play sports, go shopping, or have a picnic.

Dwight: That does sound like fun. Why don’t we go play tennis?

Tammy: Yeah, let’s go!

Dwight: Wait a minute, where did those clouds come from?

Tammy: I just felt a drop!

Dwight: How about cards instead?

Tammy: Sounds like a good idea.

48

59. Picnic Weather****

Moe: Hi Jennifer, are you ready to go on our picnic?

Jennifer: Yeah, how’s the weather today?

Moe: It looks clear and sunny right now, a beautiful day for a picnic. There’s not a

cloud in the sky!

Jennifer: Oh, that’s good to hear. Especially after how bad it was yesterday.

Moe: Yeah, the weather was terrible yesterday. Lots of rain and the wind was so strong.

Jennifer: Don’t forget the thunder and lightening!

Moe: The thunder was very loud, and the lightening struck one of the trees near my

house. It was pretty scary!

Jennifer: It’s amazing that after a night like that the weather could be so lovely.

Moe: I know, sunshine and a cool breeze. What could be better?

Jennifer: Can you believe that the weather forecast last week said there would be snow?

Moe: They got it all wrong!

Jennifer: Imagine ice and snow on the ground. Instead, we’re going for a picnic.

Moe: They were predicting worse than that! They said there would be sleet and hail!

Jennifer: In spring! That’s crazy!

Moe: Well, you never know what might happen. Last year at this time the weather was

hot and humid.

Jennifer: I remember, I didn’t even want to leave the house.

Moe: We should go now, while the weather is still nice. It can be so unpredictable!

Jennifer: You’re right, lets start walking.

Moe and Jennifer leave the house and start walking toward the river

Moe: Where did those clouds come from?

Jennifer: Oh no! It’s going to rain!

Moe: Did you bring an umbrella?

49

Jennifer: No, of course not!

Moe: We’d better start going home. Fast!

Jennifer: It’s starting to drizzle!

Moe: Maybe it won’t get any worse…

Jennifer: You don’t sound very confident.

Moe: I’m not!

Jennifer: Here it comes, it’s really pouring now!

Moe: We’re going to be soaked!

Jennifer: So much for our picnic!

60. Global Warming***

Jane: Hi, Frances.

Frances: Hi, Jane.

Jane: Did you read today’s newspaper article about global warming?

Frances: Yes, I did read the article and I think it’s terrible what we are doing to our

planet.

Jane: I don’t agree with what the article said.

Frances: Why don’t you agree?

Jane: I think that global warming is just a theory.

Frances: Did you actually read the article, Jane?

Jane: Yes, I read the article and I still think that world hunger is the bigger problem.

Frances: But the earth’s temperature has steadily increased for the past ten years. How do

you explain that, Jane?

Jane: I can’t, but how do you think we should fix the problem of global warming?

Frances: I think that we need to start building more electric cars and use solar and wind

power to give us more pollution free electricity.

Jane: Maybe I will read the article again.

50

61. What did you do over the weekend***

Two friends on a Monday morning.

Daria: Hey Heath, how are you?

Heath: I’m fine, you?

Daria: I’m great! I had a really fun weekend.

Heath: Oh yeah? What did you do?

Daria: On Friday, I went to the theater with my parents, on Saturday, I went to my

cousin’s birthday party and on Sunday I had a picnic with my brother.

Heath: Wow, that does sound fun! What did you see at the theater?

Daria: I saw “Chicago,” it was great! I love the singing! What were you up to this

weekend?

Heath: Oh, nothing much, the usual. I had my guitar lesson on Saturday and then

lounged around the house on Sunday. I finished my science project though, so that’s

good.

Daria: Oh no! When is it due? I completely forgot about it!

Heath: It’s due tomorrow!

Daria: Okay, well hopefully I can get it done tonight. I just have to write my report.

Heath: You should be fine. Just no more partying!

Daria: I know, I know. But hey, what about this weekend? Any plans?

Heath: No, not yet. Do you want to do something?

Daria: Sure! But now I’ve got to finish my science project.

Heath: Okay! I’ll call you later.

Daria: Okay! Ciao!

Heath: Bye!

51

62. Making good choices***

Kate: Hey, Stephanie. How are you?

Stephanie: I’m fine, Kate.

Kate: What are your plans for this weekend?

Stephanie: Oh, Joe’s parents are out of town. He’s throwing a party and I’m going to go.

Kate: Do his parents know about it? Do you think that’s such a good idea?

Stephanie: I don’t know. I’m just really stressed out. I could use a night hanging out and

drinking.

Kate: I don’t think you should go to the party. I would worry about you.

Stephanie: Well, what else is there to do?

Kate: Why don’t you come over to my house? We can watch a movie and talk.

Stephanie: Okay. Thanks for inviting me.

Later that night…..

Kate: I’m so glad you decided to come over and not go to Joe’s party.

Stephanie: Yeah, I guess.

Kate: I’ve been wanting to talk to you. I noticed that you’re struggling in our English

class.

Stephanie: Yeah, I’ve been falling behind in some of my other classes, too. I don’t know

what to do.

Kate: Can I help? I’d be glad to tutor you in English. You should come to the English

club after school. It’s really helped me improve my English.

Stephanie: That’s a good idea. Thanks for suggesting it.

Kate: No problem. I also advise you not to drink alcohol because it won’t help you feel

better. And I think it affects your school performance.

Stephanie: I know you’re right. Thanks for being a good friend.

52

63. Let’s Hang Out***

The end of the day school bell rings.

Tony: Thank God! I thought this day would never end!

Andie: Yeah, me too! Hey, what are you doing now? Do you want to do something?

Tony: Sure, let’s hang out!

Andie: What should we do?

Tony: We could go skating.

Andie: Or to the movies.

Tony: How about getting a burger?

Andie: I could go for3 some fries right about now!

Tony: And a milkshake!

Andie: And coleslaw!

Tony: And a coke-float!

Andie: Great, let’s go! Do you have any money?

Tony: Um…no, I don’t. Do you?

Andie: sigh…No, me neither. I guess we’ll have to do something for free.

Tony: I guess so. So what should we do?

Andie: We could go hang out in the park.

Tony: Alright, let’s go!

Andie: Right behind you!

3 I want

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64. Our Nationalities***

Conference of international students sitting at a table.

Heather: Well, to begin let’s go around the table and introduce ourselves. Yoko, please

start.

Yoko: Hi everyone, my name is Yoko and I’m Japanese.

Hanna: Good morning, I’m Hanna and I’m from Germany.

Oksana: Hello! My name is Oksana and I’m Ukrainian.

Heather: Are you from Kyiv?

Oksana: No, I’m from Western Ukraine.

Charles: Hi there. I’m Charles and I’m South African.

Sun-Li: Nice to meet you all, my name is Sun-Li and I’m Chinese.

Maria: Hello all, my name’s Maria and I’m from Brazil, but my family is Venezuelan.

Heather: When did you move to Brazil?

Maria: When I was two years old.

Sarah: Hello! My name is Sarah and I’m Belgian.

Raj: Hi, I’m Raj and I’m from India.

Heather: What is your native language?

Raj: English and Hindi.

Orla: Good day to ya! I’m Orla and I’m Irish, from the beautiful county Cork in

Southern Ireland.

Helena: Hi, my name is Helena and I’m Greek.

Heather: Well, it’s so nice to meet all of you! Welcome to our international studies

conference. I think most of you know my name is Heather and I’m from the USA. Let’s

begin…

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Ukraine

65. Where I’m from**

A conversation between a Ukrainian exchange student and his host mom

Host mom: It’s so wonderful to have you in our home.

Ukrainian Exchange Student: Thank you, it’s great to be here!

Host mom: I want to hear all about your home country, Russia.

U.E.S.: Oh, actually I’m from Ukraine!

Host mom: I’m sorry! Please tell me all about Ukraine.

U.E.S.: Well, Ukraine is the biggest country in Europe. Each part if the country is very

different.

Host mom: And which part are you from?

U.E.S.: I’m from central Ukraine. I live in a small town between Kyiv and Odessa.

Host mom: Tell me about your town.

U.E.S.: It’s not too big and not too small. About 8,000 people live there. We have many

stores, libraries, cafes, two schools, a post office, and, of course, a statue of Taras

Shevchenko.

Host mom: Oh, who is this Mr. Shevchenko?

U.E.S.: He’s our national poet. He wrote only in Ukrainian. Our famous university in

Kyiv is named after him.

Host mom: But I thought you spoke Russian!

U.E.S.: In Ukraine we speak both Russian and Ukrainian.

Host mom: Oh, I see. Are they very different from each other?

U.E.S.: They are both different and similar.

Host mom: That’s interesting! Could you teach me how to say a few words?

U.E.S.: Sure! What do you want to know?

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Host mom: Well, how can I greet you? How do you say “hello?”

U.E.S.: Hello in Ukrainian is pryveet.

Host mom: Pryveet!

U.E.S.: Very good!

Host mom: Thank you! I think we will learn a lot from one another.

66. Education in Ukraine***

Charlie: So, in your opinion, is the educational system in Ukraine very different from

ours here in the U. S.?

Ivan: I’d say so. Primary and secondary school are compulsory until the 9th grade.

Charlie: Then what happens?

Ivan: One can choose to continue at school or go to a specialized technical school.

Charlie: Oh, that’s cool. We have to stay at school until the 12th grade. Well, it’s not

compulsory after you turn 16, but it’s a problem if you don’t finish and get a diploma.

Ivan: I see. Also, your classmates change often, don’t they?

Charlie: Yeah, in every class! Even if you are in the same grade, you might never see

your friends in class!

Ivan: Why? I don’t understand.

Charlie: In high school, we can choose from a lot of different classes. If you don’t

choose the same classes as your friends, then you’ll only see them at lunch.

Ivan: Wow! It’s cool that you can choose your classes. In Ukraine we have a set, core

curriculum that all students must pass.

Charlie: And what about university? Can you choose your classes there?

Ivan: No, not really. At the beginning you choose your major4, what you want to study,

then you must follow the core curriculum to get your diploma.

Charlie: Wow! That is so different. I’m glad we talked about this.

Ivan: Me too, you have opened my eyes.

4 Department, or faculty

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67. The constitution of Ukraine***

Charlie: Ivan, what can you tell me about your constitution? It’s still pretty new, isn’t it?

Ivan: Yes. Although Ukraine became independent in 1991, we didn’t adopt our new

constitution until 1996.

Charlie: Wow! That’s really interesting! What was happening in Ukraine before

independence?

Ivan: We were part of the Soviet Union, things were quite different then. Now, our

constitution guarantees rights and freedoms for us.

Charlie: Like what?

Ivan: You know, like free education, acknowledgement of both Russian and Ukranian

languages, the prohibition of censorship, and freedom to live your life the way you see

fit.

Charlie: That sounds like our U.S. constitution. We appreciate and use our freedom of

speech often.

Ivan: In the Soviet Union, it was harder to say what you thought. You could get in

trouble for speaking against the government.

Charlie: Well, I am so happy for you and your country that now you can speak freely.

Without the voice of the people, it’s not a democracy.

Ivan: You’re right. Citizens must have the right to speak out.

Charlie: Are you hungry?

Ivan: I could eat!

Charlie: Why don’t we continue this conversation over lunch?

Ivan: Great idea! I’ll tell you about our Orange Revolution.

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Business English

68. At a Business Meeting****

Manager: Welcome to Globetrot Industries.

Investor: Thank you, I’m glad to be here.

Manager: I heard that you may be interested in investing in our company.

Investor: That’s true, I’m here to learn a little more about your company first.

Manager: As you know, we import folk arts and crafts from around the world to the

United States.

Investor: And what is your vision for the future of the company?

Manager: We opened three new stores last month and we want to continue to expand

until we have stores all over the south east.

Investor: That’s very ambitious.

Manager: It is, but the stores we’ve opened so far have been very successful. We believe

it is an attainable goal.

Investor: Okay, I’m very interested. I’ll need to talk it over with my associates and I’ll

have my assistant give you a call next week.

Manager: That would be great.

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69. Interview for a job****

Manager: Please come in and have a seat.

Applicant: Thank you.

Manager: I’ve already looked at your application and resume. I just have a few

questions I’d like to ask you. Why did you leave your former job?

Applicant: My wife was promoted at her job. With the promotion she received a

substantial raise, but now she works at the main office. We had to move into the city so

she could be closer to her job. So I’m looking for work closer to our new home.

Manager: Okay. Our bank is much bigger than the last one you worked at. Do you think

you’re ready for that kind of change?

Applicant: There are many things I liked about working at a smaller bank, but I think a

bigger bank can offer more opportunities. For that reason, I welcome the change.

Manager: That’s true, but it also means you’ll have more responsibilities.

Applicant: I think I’m ready for them. I don’t mind working hard if it means I’ll be

successful.

Manager: That kind of attitude will get you far at any job. I’ve just got one more

question for you. There are a lot of banks in this city, why are you interested in a job at

ours?

Applicant: I see that you treat your customers well and your employees seem happy with

their jobs. It just seems like the kind of place I would enjoy working.

Manager: Okay. Well, thank you for coming for the interview. We’ll call you by the

end of the week to let you know if you’ve got the job.

Applicant: Okay, thank you for your time. Bye.

Manager: Bye.

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70. Applying for a visa****

Consular Officer: Good afternoon, can I help you?

Business person: Yes, please. I need to apply for a United States visa. What should I

do? Which kind of visa should I apply for?

Consular Officer: What is the purpose of your visit?

Business person: Business.

Consular Officer: Then you will need a business visa. To begin with, you must fill out

this form.

Business person: Okay, could you please help me? My English isn’t perfect.

Consular Officer: Sure. Just fill out your personal information, name, address, passport

number, and nationality. Here, you must state your reason for visiting the United States,

your references, and length of stay.

Business person: Okay, here are the letters from my references.

Consular Officer: Thank you. Where will you be staying?

Business person: At the Metro Hotel in New York City.

Consular Officer: I will need to see your hotel reservation and return flight tickets.

Business person: Here you are.

Consular Officer: Great! We will need to conduct an interview as well. Can you come

back later today, around 3:00?

Business person: Sure! How long will the interview take?

Consular Officer: Not long, about half an hour. It’s just to look over your application

and ask a few questions.

Business person: Okay, I’ll be back at 3:00.

Consular Officer: Before you go, we will need the application processing fee of $50.

60

Business person: Of course, here you are.

Consular Officer: Thank you very much. If everything goes well with your interview,

your visa should be issued in one week.

Business person: Thank you so much for your help.

Consular Officer: No problem. See you at 3:00.

~~~~~~~~

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