ESL

Tips for Teaching English as a Foreign Language
Have you ever wondered what it would take to start teaching English as a foreign language? For native English speakers, there are often many opportunities for traveling overseas and teaching English language arts to students in another country. You may be wondering if you have to already know another language when teaching English to others, but some of the best English lessons are often the result of a teacher who only knows English and therefore forces the students to speak in English to communicate. This method of teaching where you force your students to only speak English is known as the direct method or the natural methodof teaching a foreign language, and focuses heavily on correct pronunciation and gaining conversational skills.

The first skill you will need to master to start successfully teaching English as a foreign language is the ability to use body gestures and signs effectively. Many students find that they learn a new language better when they are forced to speak only English in the classroom. By refusing to use your student's native language, you force them to learn English by first using your body language and gestures to teach them new words, and then using what they've learned to build even more knowledge. This pattern of learning closely mimics the way babies and infants learn a language, and therefore this method of teaching often 'sticks' better than using rote memorization of English words.

Another important strategy when teaching English is to have your students practice common phrases until they feel completely comfortable with those phrases. This technique is often used with diplomats and allows the student to focus heavily on correct pronunciation and accent. For example, teaching the English equivalent of common greetings, questions, and idioms can go a far way towards teaching English language arts. It's important when teaching any language to focus on the most useful and common phrases first, so your students are able to start conversing right away. There are hundreds of English teaching guides that will help you choose what sorts of phrases and words to focus on first.

Using the Conditional (Part 1)
We use the conditional to show a possible situation based on another situation. For example:
If A happens, then B will happen.

The first conditional shows that something could possibly happen. Its structure is like this:
If + subject + present tense (or present progressive) ----,subject + will/may/can + base verb ----.
For example:
If it rains tomorrow, I will take my umbrella.
If you help me, we can finish earlier.
If the boys give the monkey a coin, it may dance for them.
Notice that each sentence above uses the present tense on the if side. But we could also use the present progressive if something is happening right now.
If he isn't working right now, he may want to come over for dinner.

We can also change the order of the sentence and put the if side on the second half. The only difference is that there is no comma.
I will take my umbrella if it rains tomorrow.
We can finish earlier if you help me.
The monkey may dance for the boys if they give it a coin.

More on using 'The'
On November 26 we talked about the difference between using A and The. Here is a little more specific information on how to use The.
Use the after you have talked about it the first time. For example:
This is a cat. The cat is brown
Use the when the person you are talking to already knows what you are talking about. For example:
I am going to the bank.
There is someone knocking at the door. It must be the computer repairman. I called him to come help fix my computer.
Use the when you talk about general places in nature like the lake, the mountains, the ocean, the beach, etc. For example:
Let's go to the beach.
I love to camp in the mountains.
Use the when you are talking about something that there is only one of and everyone knows about it. The sky, the earth, the stars (as a group). For example:
How many people are there on the earth?
The sky is so beautiful today.
Using the Past Continuous with the Simple Past Tense
  The past continuous tense uses:
was/were + (verb) + ing
was eating or were going
It is used to show something that happened in the past and continued for a while. For example:
From 8:00 to 8:30 I was taking a bath.
We use the past continuous tense with the simple past tense when we want to show that one thing happened in the middle of another thing.
I was taking a bath and the telephone rang.
During a period of time (8:00-8:30) I was taking a bath. At one time (let's say 8:17) someone called on the telephone.
We can also connect the past continuous and simple past together by using the words when,while, and as.
When I was taking a bath, the telephone rang.
The telephone rang when I was taking a bath.
While I was taking a bath, the telephone rang.
The telephone rang while I was taking a bath.
As I was taking a bath, the telephone rang.
The telephone rang as I was taking a bath.
Notice if you use when, while, or as at the beginning of the sentence, you need to put a comma (,) after the phrase.

Check Your Understanding
Make a sentence using the words given. Use the past continuous for things that happened over a period of time and the simple past for things that happened a one time. The first one has been done for you.

I
walk down the street (5:00-5:10)
see an old man (5:04)
while
While I was walking down the street, I saw an old man.
I saw an old man while I was walking down the street.
1. Susan
bake a cake (3:45-4:45)
drop a spoon (3:51)
when
Have you ever...?

Ever means from the time you were born until now. Except for rare exceptions, it can only be used in questions and to answers with a no.
It is used with have or had + a past participle.
Example:
Have you ever eaten a frog?
Has she ever gone to Australia?
When you answer the question, a yes answer will use have/has + past participle.
Have you ever seen a whale?
Answer:
Yes, I have seen a whale. or Yes, I have.
If you answer the question with a no, you will need to use
haven't /hasn't + ever + past participle or
have /has + never + past participle
(both of these have the same meaning)
Example:
Have you ever seen a whale?
Answer:
No, I haven't ever seen a whale. or
No, I've never seen a whale. or
No, I haven't.

Check Your Understanding
Create the sentences using ever, then answer the question (write only one possible answer.)
Example:
Susan/wear/cowboy hat
Has Susan ever worn a cowboy hat?
Yes, she has worn a cowboy hat.
Yes, she has.
1. you/go/camping

                   
No,
                                     
2. she/make/bread

                   
Yes,
                           
3. Lisa and Tom/eat/Chinese food

                   
Yes,
                           
4. you/forget/Mike's birthday

                 
No,

Using have to, supposed to, and ought to
Have to is the same as must. It implies that you don't have a choice.
John has to go to work everyday.
The students have to study tonight.
To be supposed to means an obligation. It is something that you should do, or something that another person expects you to do. Don't forget to use the verb be in front of supposed to.
Sally is supposed to meet her friend tonight.
All of the employees are supposed to attend today's meeting.
Ought to means a suggestion. You should do something but you don't have to do it.
We ought to clean the house tonight.
Phillip ought to help you with your homework.
(Notice that all of these words are modals. They are followed by a verb.)
***
You may feel confused about the slight differences between these words. Just think about what the speaker is implying.
I have to do my homework. (If I don't, will be in trouble.)
I am supposed to do my homework. (If I don't, my teacher will notice that I didn't do it.)
I ought to do my homework. (I don't have to if I don't want to, but I feel I should do it because I want to do well in the class.)

Check Your Understanding
Choose the best answer.
1. Willy needs money to pay for his food and house. If he doesn't go to work, he won't have money. He must work.
Willy ___ go to work.
 a. ought to
 b. has to
 c. is supposed to
2. Johnny should help his mother with the housework. His mother would be happy if he did. But if he didn't help her, his mother wouldn't feel bad.
Johnny ___ help his mother.
 a. ought to
 b. has to
 c. is supposed to
3. Joan want to be a nurse. To become a nurse it is necessary to go to nursing school.
Joan ___ go to nursing school if she wants to be a nurse.
 a. has to
 b. is supposed to
 c. ought to
4. Tom's friend is waiting for him at the gym. They made plans to meet at 6:00. His friend will be upset if Tom doesn't go.
Tom ___ meet his friend.
 a. ought to
 b. has to
 c. is supposed to
5. Lisa tells Nathan that he would be a good manager. She suggests that he apply for a job as a manager. Nathan is going to think about that.
Lisa thinks Nathan ___ be a manager
 a. ought to
 b. is supposed to
 c. has to
Reported Speech (Part 1)
  Reported Speech is used to tell or report what someone has said.
For example, look at this sentence: Harry said, "I love Susan." If we ask someone else to tell us what Harry said, the person would say (or report) what the first person said like this.
He said he loved Susan.
Or Harry said he loved Susan.
But notice how the verb tense changed. Love became loved. Here are some rules...
The present tense verb is change to the past tense in reported speech.
Sally said, "I like pizza."
What did she say?
She said (that*) she liked pizza.
The past tense is change to the past perfect in reported speech.
Joe said, "I went to New York City."
What did he say?
He said (that) he had gone to New York City.
The present continuous is changed to the past continuous.
Michael said, "I am taking an English class."
What did he say?
He said (that) he was taking an English class.
*You can use the work that in reported speech if you want. It doesn't matter if you do or not.

Check Your Understanding
Write the sentences using reported speech.

1. Lisa said, "I like to cook." What did she say?

                   
2. Tony said, "I finished his homework." What did he say?

                 
3. Ryan said, "I am working right now." What did he say?

                 
4. Gwen and Ed said, "We are going to Canada." What did they say?

                 
5. The teachers said, "We help students everyday." What did they say?

                 
6. The radio announcer said, "It rained this morning." What did he say?

                 


Reported Speech (Part 2)
  The present perfect verb is change to the past perfect tense in reported speech.
Michelle said, " I have been to California."
What did she say?
She said (that*) she had been to California.
The past perfect tense doesn't change.
John said, " I had talked to my neighbor."
What did he say?
John said (that) he had talked to his neighbor.
The future tense verb is change to the conditional in reported speech.
Staci said, "I will buy a new house."
What did she say?
She said (that) she would buy a new house.
*You can use the word that in reported speech if you want. It doesn't matter if you do or not.

Check Your Understanding
Write the sentences using reported speech.

1. Selma said, "I have been shopping." What did she say?

                 
2. George said, "I had just finished my work." What did he say?

                 
3. Loren said, "I have seen the Grand Canyon." What did he say?

                 
4. Morgan and Ellie said, "We will think about it." What did they say?

                 
5. The students said, "We will take an English class ." What did they say?

                 
6. The teenager said, "I had hurried to class." What did he say?

                 
Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns are these words:
myself, yourself, herself, himself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, and themselves*
Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object in a sentence are the same person.
For example:
I hit myself with a hammer.
John hit himself with a hammer.
These sentences are not correct:
X I hit me with a hammer.
X John hit him with a hammer. (If John hit John.)
But remember, when the subject and object are different people, use the regular object pronouns (me, you, he, she, it, us, and them**.)
I hit her (Susan) with a hammer.
John hit him (Jack) with a hammer.

Check Your Understanding
Use the the object to use a *reflexive pronoun or **object pronoun.
Examples:
A. Mary loves John. Mary loves him.
B. Tony and Faye saw Tony and Faye in the mirror. Tony and Faye saw themselves in the mirror.
1. Jim asked Carrie about the dance.
Jim asked   about the dance.
2. The animal cleaned the animal with its tongue.
The animal cleaned   with its tongue.
3. David and Alex asked Mr. Jones for advice.
David and Alex asked   for advice.
4. You three kids will cut you three kids if you play with knives.
You three kids will cut   if you play with knives.
5. Lisa and I gave Lisa and I a present from the mall.
Lisa and I gave   a present from the mall.
6. Did Mrs. Nichols talk to you after class?
Did Mr. Nichols talk to   after class?
7. Mr. Nichols talked to Mr. Nichols after class.
Mr. Nichols talked to   after class.
                           


Using because to connect sentences
  Look at this sentence:
Alice went shopping.
Why?
She needed to buy bread.
Now let's use because to put the two sentences together.
Alice went shopping because she needed to buy bread.
We can also say it another way:
Because she needed to buy bread, Alice went shopping.
Notice that when you use because at the beginning of the sentence, you must use a comma (,) after the first part (which is called the adverb clause.)
One more:
I like butterflies. Why? They are pretty.
I like butterflies because they are pretty.
Because they are pretty, I like butterflies.

Now You Try...
Rewrite the sentences connecting them with because in the middle and at the beginning.
1. Tommy doesn't like school. The other children tease him.


                           
2. Michael works hard. He needs to earn money.


                           
3. Jennifer eats chocolate everyday. She likes it.


                           
4. All of the employees will have a party. It's the boss' birthday.


                           

Using Parallel Verbs
  When speaking and writing in English, we sometimes use more than one verb to describe what is happening. For example:
Thomas speaks and studies English.
The important thing to remember is- when the subject does two or more things, the verbs use the same tense. More examples:
Thomas spoke and studied English.
Thomas will speak and (will) study English.
Thomas can speak and (can) study English.
Thomas is speaking and (is) studying English.
If the verb has a helping verb (like will, can, is, are, etc.) you must use it before the first verb but you may or may not use it after. It is your choice. Usually it is not used.

Check Your Understanding
Are these sentences correct? Check your answers below.
1. John goes to the cafe and ate breakfast.
  Correct
  Not correct
2. Marty will bring the game and plays it.
  Correct
  Not correct
3. Alex can play the piano and sing songs.
  Correct
  Not correct
4. Tory is helping and watching at the same time.
  Correct
  Not correct
5. Mr. Jones can drive a car and eating lunch.
  Correct
  Not correct
6. Helen sits and waited for the train.
  Correct
  Not correct
7. Cary will go to school and will study there.
  Correct
  Not correct
8. Franklin cleans his house and found his keys.
  Correct
  Not correct
                           
Using wish to talk about the past
  (If you want to see how to use wish in the present tense, click here)
This form is used when right now you are thinking about or wishing that something in the past happened differently. You think about something that cannot be changed, almost like a dream or a regret.
use wish (that) + subject + had (not) + past participle
Examples:
I wish I had gone to Australia last year. (Now you regret you didn't go to Australia last year.)
James wishes he had studied harder. (Now you wish you studied more before.)
The students wish their teacher hadn't given them homework. (Now the students feel bad that their teacher gave homework before.)
Alice wishes she hadn't eaten so much pie. (Now Alice feels sick. She wonders why she ate so much pie before.)

Check Your Understanding
Write a sentence using wish in the past. Two examples are given to you.
Examples:

Henry didn't do his work. Now his boss is angry.
Answer: Henry wishes he had done his work.
Melanie swam in the lake. Now she is cold.
Answer: Melanie wishes she hadn't swum in the lake.
1. Jeff didn't wake up on time. Now he is late.

                 
2. Tony and Chris went camping. Now it is raining.

                 
3. Martha didn't eat dinner. Now she is hungry.

                 
4. I lied to my friend. Now my friend won't talk to me.

                 
5. We didn't finish cleaning the house. Now all of our guests have arrived and we are embarrassed.

                 


Past Participles

present, past, past participle
be, was or were, been
sing, sang, sung
drink, drank, drunk
do, did, done
go, went, gone
make, made, made
find, found, found
talk, talked, talked
eat, ate, eaten
swim, swam, swum
read, read, read
write, wrote, written
give, gave, given
Now let's practice the past participle by using the present perfect tense. It shows something that started in the past, but continues until now.
has/have (not) + past participle
Examples:
She has done her homework.
They have gone for a walk.
Julia hasn't eaten anything today.
The men haven't talked about the women.

Check Your Understanding
Without looking back, try to fill in the blanks using the past participle. Use have or has.

She   (eat) all of the cookies.
                 
Maxwell   (write) his essay.
                 
Thomas   (find) a new friend.
                   
George and Kerry   (go) to the mountains.
                   
The president   (not/ make) his speech yet.
                 
Carolyn   (not/ talk) to Richard.
                 
The teachers   (give) us the homework.
                 
The cowboys   (drink) all the beer.
                 
The swimmers   (swim) across the lake.
                   
Bonus: (Do you know these?)***
The boy   (fall) down.
                 
We   (choose) to meet with Mr. Green.
                   
You   (wear) that dress for 5 days.
                   
We   (not/ drive) the truck since 1999.
                 
Very vs. Too
  Look at the two sentences. How are they different?
A: It is very hot.
B: It is too hot.
A is a simple statement- It's HOT!
But B shows some difficulty, like maybe because it is so hot, I feel terrible. Or because it is so hot, no one is happy.
Here are some more...
C: Lisa is very tall.
D: Lisa is too tall.
C is a simple statement. Wow! Lisa is a tall girl.
But D has a negative feeling. Perhaps because Lisa is tall, she hits her head on the ceiling. Or maybe she is so tall, she can't get a date or has no friends.
So remember, using too shows that there is a problem with the situation.

Check Your Understanding
Choose very or too. Check your answers by clicking on the arrow below.
1. I think James is nice. Karen thinks James is nice, too.
James is ___ nice.
  very
  too
2. It's cold outside. I hate it. I might become sick if I go out.
It's ___ cold outside.
  very
  too
3. That box is so big. I can't pick it up.
That box is ___ big.
  very
  too
4. Tony's cat is fat. It weighs 8 kg.
Tony's cat is ___ fat.
  very
  too
5. Tony's cat is fat. It can't run. It may not live a long time.
Tony's cat is ___ fat.
  very
  too
                 

Using must as a conclusion
  Look at the two sentences. How are they different?
A: It is very hot.
B: It is too hot.
A is a simple statement- It's HOT!
But B shows some difficulty, like maybe because it is so hot, I feel terrible. Or because it is so hot, no one is happy.
Here are some more...
C: Lisa is very tall.
D: Lisa is too tall.
C is a simple statement. Wow! Lisa is a tall girl.
But D has a negative feeling. Perhaps because Lisa is tall, she hits her head on the ceiling. Or maybe she is so tall, she can't get a date or has no friends.
So remember, using too shows that there is a problem with the situation.

Check Your Understanding
Choose very or too. Check your answers by clicking on the arrow below.
1. I think James is nice. Karen thinks James is nice, too.
James is ___ nice.
  very
  too
2. It's cold outside. I hate it. I might become sick if I go out.
It's ___ cold outside.
  very
  too
3. That box is so big. I can't pick it up.
That box is ___ big.
  very
  too
4. Tony's cat is fat. It weighs 8 kg.
Tony's cat is ___ fat.
  very
  too
5. Tony's cat is fat. It can't run. It may not live a long time.
Tony's cat is ___ fat.
  very
  too
                 
Using wish in the present tense
  When you say "I wish..." you are talking about something that you want but probably will not happen, or you don't think will happen. Like I wish I had a million dollars. (It is different from the word hope. If you hope for something, it means you think it could be possible.)
Here are some examples:
I wish I had a new job.
Teri wishes she knew Tom Cruise.
Jim wishes Karen liked to cook.
The boys wish they could go to Hawaii.
Notice you use the past tense verb in the clause after wish. But when you use a be verb in the clause, always use were.
Examples:
I wish I were the president.
She wishes she were here now.
We wish we were at home.

Check Your Understanding
Change the sentences to use wish. Check your answer by clicking on the arrows.

Examples:

I want to have a bike.
I wish I had a bike.
Mary wants to be a movie star.
Mary wishes she were a movie star.
1. Joseph wants to see his friend.

                   
2. Eric and Steven want to have a new car.

                   
Frank wants to be a pilot.

                   
3. Sharon wants to be married.

                   
4. You want to be able* to play the piano.

                   
5. Stephanie wants to be young.

                   
6. Mike wants to speak Spanish.

                   
7. Carrie wants to have more time.

                   
*Remember: to be able = can
The Present Perfect Progressive Tense
  This tense talks about how long you have been doing something you started in the past and still continue now.
have/has been + verb+ing
like has been studying or have been running
Generally when you use this tense you want to say how long something has been happening, so you will use since or for if you tell the amount of time. If you have forgotten how to use since or for, click here.
Examples:
Mary has been studying English since 1992.
The kids have been running for 15 minutes.
Karen has been singing all morning.
The students have been practicing the play since last month.
Remember, it is an activity that started before and continues through now.

Check Your Understanding
Write the sentence in the blanks. The first one has been done for you.
Example: Albert/read/2 hours
Albert has been reading for 2 hours.
1. The cat/play/20 minutes

                   
2. We/drive/9:30 this morning

                   
3. Lisa/smoke/10 years

                   
4. Ben and Alicia/date/last year.

                   
5. I/prepare for the test/3 weeks

                   
Use to/ Used to
There is a little confusion on how to use the words use to and used to. One reason for the confusion is that it is sometimes used as a verb, and sometimes used as an adjective. The other reason is because it seems like the tense changes. It's really quite simple when you look at it.
  Used as an adjective. Use to be + used to. This means to be accustomed to. For example- I can study with the TV on. I am used to it. It means I am accustomed, adjusted, or don't mind having the TV play while I'm studying.
Or another example- Tim had a hard time living in Tokyo. He wasn't used to so many people. Tim didn't have experience being with big crowds of people before.
Used as a verb. Use to + verb is a regular verb and means something that happened but doesn't happen any more. It uses -ed to show past tense. But since it always means something that happened in the past, it should always use past tense. For example- I used togo to school in Paris. (I went to school there before, but now I don't.) Or, When Joshua was a child, he used to climb trees. (Now he doesn't climb trees.)
Remember, we always use this word when talking about the past. So when do you use use to without the d at the end? When the base form of the verb is used. Look at these examples- She didn't use to swim before noon. (Now she does swim before noon.) Or Did your father use to ride a horse? In these cases the past tense is shown with the did and didn't.

You try...
Use the correct form of use to. Decide if it is an adjective or verb. If it is a verb, does it use the base form of the verb, or does it need -ed?
1. Karen   play with dolls.
                   
2. Sheila wasn't   having to cook for herself.
                   
3. Did Todd   go skiing in the Alps?
                   
4. I never   get up so late.
                   
5. His dog is   staying home alone all day.
                   
6. We didn't   use to fight like this.
                   
7. I wonder if you will ever be   working so hard.
                   
8. She didn't   sing so well, did she?
                   
9. Herbert   play basketball after school.
                   
10. They aren't   staying out so late.
                   
Using Since and For
  Use since + (a specific time) like March 31, or 9:19 a.m., or Tuesday.
Examples:
I have been studying English since 1993.
John has helped me since 10:00 this morning.
Those people have been in Europe since August.

Note: Because we are talking about a time in the past until now, we have to use have/has + past participle when we use since.
******
Use for + (a length of time) like 1 day, or 3 hours, or 5 years.
Examples:
I have been studying English for 4 years.
John has helped me for 8 hours.
Those people went to Europe for 2 months.
Note: It is possible to use the past tense when you use for if the action is finished.

Check Your Understanding
Choose the correct answer. Check your answers below.

1. Leslie has lived here                               ten years.
2. I haven't seen you                               last March.
3. We sat and talked                               30 minutes.
4. Young-eun studied French                               nine years.
5. Caroline has been learning Spanish                               March 1999.
6. We haven't had an earthquake                               23 years.
7. I haven't heard from you                               Saturday.
8. Molly hasn't eaten                               7:00 this morning.
9. He played basketball                               over 20 years.
10. Andre hasn't seen Becky                               yesterday.
                           
In, At, On + Time or Date
When is your birthday? Mine is ON October 12. When do you eat lunch? I usually eat it AT noon. When does the school year begin in your country? In mine it begins IN September.
Do you know which preposition to use before times, days, months and years? Here is a reminder.

Don't forget to use...
in + month or year- In March, In 2003
on + date (with the year or without it) or day of the week- On April 2, On March 3, 1999, On Saturday
at + clock time, midnight, noon- At 3:30 p.m., At 4:01, At noon
Remember also...
in + season- In the summer, In the winter
in + morning, afternoon, evening- In the morning, In the evening
at + night- At night

Questions and Answers
Write your answers in the boxes and check them by clicking on the arrows below.

1. Let's meet   6:30.
2. The play is   Saturday   noon.
3. I was born   November 3, 1970.
4. Beverly went to Los Angeles   January.
5. Bill arrived in New York   February 7.
6. I love to see the flowers   the spring.
7. The movie starts   7:30   the evening.
8. We go to bed   11:00   night.
9. Her birthday is   October   the fall.
10. I saw a witch   midnight   Saturday   October 31   1998.
                           

Using the Present Perfect Tense
The present perfect tense is made like this:
have/has + past participle.
Here are some examples of the past participle:
been eaten
gone played
done read
become written
We use it to talk about a something that started in the past and continued until now.
Examples: I have been in California for 2 years. (From 2 years ago in the past until now, I have been in California. I didn't live in another place.)
or Karen has gone to school everyday since she was 5 years old. (From the time she was 5 years old -in the past- until now, she has gone to school. She didn't stop going to school.)


Check Your Understanding
Use the present perfect tense. Check your answers by clicking on the arrows.
1. Jerry   (play) basketball since he was young.
                 
2. A: How long have you done karate? B: I   (do) it for about 3 years now.
                 
3. She was an ugly child. Now she   (become) a beautiful woman.
                 
4. Stephanie   (be) at the library all day.
                 
5. Oh no! The deer   (eat) all of my flowers.
                 
6. That little girl   (read) all of the books on that shelf.
                 
7. She said she   (study) English for 8 years.
                 
8. Thomas and Bill   (watch) TV since 8:00 this morning.
                 

Simple Past vs. Past Progressive Tense

Remember- the simple past talks about something that happened before. It happened and itfinished. Some words are regular and just have -ed added at the end like walked, helped, andplayed. Others are irregular and have many variations like ate, began, and slept.
The past progressive talks about something that was happening before, but for a period of time. It uses was or were + verb-ing like was eating or were playing. It gives a background for something that was happening while a different event happened.
Example: While I was eating, the telephone rang.
So, during the time I was eating (let's say from 6:30-7:00 p.m.) somebody called my house (let's say they called at 6:49p.m.) One thing happened (simple past) during the period of time another thing was happening (past progressive.)
Here is another example: They saw an old man as they were walking down the street.
You can think of walking as a video. You see the movement. You see the time passing. Think of saw as a photo. It is one point of time. You don't think of the time passing.
I dreamed in English when I was sleeping.
She was listening to the radio when the mail came.
They visited Sydney when they were traveling in Australia.

Questions and Answers
Use the simple past or present progressive tense. Check your answers by clicking on the arrows.

1. I dropped a cup while I   (wash) the dishes.
                 
2. Jon and Bill were washing the car when they   (see) their friend Alex.
                 
3. Tony came to see me while I   (do) my homework.
                 
4. The children   (play) when their father came home.
                 
5. When Inga was driving, she   (notice) an animal in the road.
                 
6. Annie   (call) when Kerry was studying.
                 
7. While the movie was playing, Tomoko   (eat) popcorn.
                 


Using either, neither and too
Look at the sentences below. A is the speaker. B answers, and sometimes
a third person C answers after B.
  When you agree with the speaker...
A: I like ice cream. B: Me, too. or I do, too. or So do I.
A: I can play the piano. B: Me, too. or I can, too. or So can I.
A: I am hungry. B: Me, too. or I am, too. or So am I.
A: I don't like hamburgers. B: Me, either. or Neither do I.
A: I can't cook. B: Me, either. or Neither can I.
A: I'm not tired. B: Me either. or Neither am I.
In the sentences above, a third person (C) would say the same thing as the second person (B)
When you don't agree with the speaker...
A: I love fried fish. B: I don't. C: I don't either. or Neither do I.
A: I am tall. B: I'm not. C: I'm not either. or Neither am I.
A: I can sing. B: I can't. C: I can't either. or Neither can I.
A: I don't like chocolate. B: I do. C: I do, too.
A: I'm not Canadian. B: I am. C: I am, too.
A: I can't speak English. B: I can. C: I can, too.
Note- there may be a few other possible ways to answer these questions.

Now you try...
Answer the questions using the examples above. Choose one response. (There may be more than one answer.) Check your answers by clicking on the arrows.

1. A: I like to play tennis. B:  . (You like to play tennis.)
                 
2. A: I can't swim. B:  . (You cannot swim.)
                 
3. A: I'm not going to school today. B:  . (You are going to school)
                 
4. A: I don't have a son. B:  . (You don't have a son)
                 
5. A: I can't speak Russian. B:  . (You can speak Russian.
                 
6. A: I like to drink beer. B: I don't. C:  . (C does not like beer)
                 
7. A: I can't hear the teacher. B: I can't either. C:  . (C can't hear the teacher)
                 
8. A: I'm not happy. B: Neither am I. C:  . (C is not happy)
                 
Tag Questions
A tag question is one where a statement is made, but the speaker wants a response from the listener. Like- Today's lesson is hard, isn't it? or The kids can't sing that song, can they?
First of all, to understand tag questions, you need to know about affirmative and negative sentences.
Do you know what an affirmative sentence is? It is like this: Mary is at home. or The studentswork hard.
Do you know what a negative sentence is? It is like this: Mary isn't at home. or The studentsdon't work hard.
Then, you need to know that if the sentence is affirmative, the tag will be negative. And if the sentence is negative, the tag will be positive.
And finally, you need to think about the kind of verb used in the sentence. Does it use a modal, like can or will or a form of to be? Your tag question will follow the verb in the sentence. If it is a regular verb, don't forget it uses do, don't, does, doesn't when a question is asked.

Examples
Affirmative Sentence/ Negative Tag
Toshi likes fishing, doesn't he?
Susan is sick today, isn't she?
Mike can play the piano, can't he?
You will go there, won't you?
Negative Sentence/ Affirmative Tag
Andrew doesn't study much, does he?
The dogs aren't hungry, are they?
She can't cook, can she?
You won't see her, will you?

You try it
Write the correct answer in the box. Check your answers by clicking on the arrows.
1. It's going to rain,  ?
                   
2. Mike is home,  ?
                   
3. Sally doesn't have a car,  ?
                 
4. You can sing well,  ?
                 
5. Mia can't swim,  ?
                 
6. She has homework today,  ?
                 
7. Isaac isn't sick,  ?
                   
8. You guys aren't going shopping,  ?
                   
9. Harry will watch TV,  ?
                 
10. You won't go,  ?
                 

It's and Its
Lots of people get confused about the spelling of it's and its. It's really quite simple. Remember, the means there is a contraction. Two words have been put together to make one word, and the is placed where one or more letters have been taken out.
For example- she + is = she's. And does + not = doesn't.
So- It's = it + is or sometimes It's = it + has (you will know by the context which one it is.)
Now how about its? This is a possessive. Remember that a possessive is a word that shows who or what owns something.
For example- This is the girl's coat. This is her coat.
Or- Joey and Melissa's friend is here. Their friend is here.
So- The book's pages are green. Its pages are green.

You try. Fill in the blanks using it's or its. Use the arrows to see the correct answers.
1. Look at this table.             leg is broken.
2. Come on,                  time to go home now.
3. Nice to see you.                  been a long time.
4. This is a bee. A beehive is             home.
5. What is that?                   a kind of game. This is              box.
Hear and Listen to
Hear- you do this without thinking. It is inactive. Example- When I leave my home every morning, I hear the birds singing in the trees.
Listen to- this is an active word. You must think about what you are doing. Example- I really listen to my husband when he tells me about his day.
Use hear or listen to in the following sentences. Use the arrows the see the correct answers.
1. Joanna wanted to                     her favorite radio show.
2. Sorry, I didn't                     you come in. You are so quiet.
3. Can you                     the sound of the ocean?
4. It is hard to                      the teacher when I feel tired.
5.                      this story. It's about a king and a frog.
See, Look at, and Watch
  Do you know the difference between see, look at, and watch?
See is an inactive word. When your eyes are open, you do it without thinking. Example- I see a car near the store.
Look at is an active word. You must want to do it. But it is for a short time. Example- Look at this dress.
Watch is also an active word. You must want to do it but it is for a longer period of time. Example- Let's watch television.

Check Your Understanding
Choose the correct word (see, look at, or watch.) Click the box to see the correct answer.
1. Do you want to                      a movie with me tonight?
2. Please                     the clock and tell me what time it is.
3. I like to go to the zoo and                     the animals while they are playing.*
4. How many things do you                     in this office?
5. I want to                      that sweater again. Maybe I will buy it.
*Remember, this means it is a long time.
Confused about confusing language?
How do you know when something is confused or confusing? When the movie wasn't so great, was I bored or boring? Does it make a difference if I tell my friend he's annoyed or annoying?
It does. And there's an easy way to know which one to choose.
Words that end with -ed talk about a person's feelings.
Examples-
1. John was so bored on his date. He really wanted to leave.
2. Karen was annoyed with her employee. This employee was always late.
3. Curt was confused about the new rules. They were very complicated.
4. The children were excited about the school trip.
5. Melanie was surprised to get a gift.
6. The class was interested in the game.
*****
Words that end with -ing, however, talk about the situation or thing that cause a person's feelings.
Examples-
1. The date was really boring. John wanted to leave.
2. The employee was annoying. He was always late.
3. The rules were confusing. They were complicated.
4. The school trip was exciting.
5. The gift was surprising.
6. The game was interesting.
So ...

John was bored/ the date was boring

Karen was annoyed/ the employee was annoying

Curt was confused/ the rules were confusing

The children were excited/ the school trip was exciting

Melanie was surprised/ the gift was surprising.

The class was interested/ the game was interesting
Questions- Choose the correct word
1. I always feel excited/exciting when I take a vacation.
2. The news was very interested/ interesting.
3. Everyone was surprised/ surprising when Tom Cruise came to the party.
4. Teri is always so confused/ confusing when she reads English.
5. That loud TV is so annoyed/ annoying.
6. When I am in the office, I am bored/ boring.

Answers
1. excited (person's feeling)
2. interesting (situation that caused the feeling)
3. surprised (person's feeling)
4. confused (person's feeling)
5. annoying (situation that caused the feeling)
6. This is a trick question-
If you say "I am bored," you don't feel happy or excited.
If you say "I am boring," other people feel bored because of you.
Irregular Past Tense Verbs
As you probably know, most past tense verbs in English end with "-ed." But many do not. Many don't follow the rule. They are called Irregular Verbs. How well do you know your past tense verbs? Change the sentences below. Use the past tense form of the verb.
1. Wow, you _____(bring) me some flowers!
2. I'm so sorry, I _____(forget) your birthday.
3. Melanie ____(hide) the present from her sister.
4. The children _____(take) their schoolwork home.
5. John _____(sleep) in class.
6. The mother _____(hit) the child on the leg.
7. Tony _____(read) about South Africa.
8. Alisa was tired so she _____(lie) down.
9. Thomas _____(lay) the book on the coffee table.
10. My parents _____(catch) a cold when they went skiing.

Answers
1. brought
2. forgot
3 hid
4. took
5. brought
6. hit
7. slept
8. lay*
9. laid*
10. caught
* These are difficult words to remember. Many native English speakers get them confused and use them incorrectly. Look at this:
lie, lay, lain (present tense, past tense, present perfect tense) To lie means to put oneself down. Examples- I'm tired. I'm going to lie down. Yesterday I lay down in the forest.
lay, laid, laid (present tense, past tense, present perfect tense) To lay means to put something else down (like put.) Examples- Lay that fork on the table. She laid the blanket on the bed.
If you didn't answer the above questions 100% correctly, I suggest you study irregular past tense verbs a little more.
Go + noun
Look at the sentences. For most sentences we use go to (somewhere)...
I will go to the store.
I will go to the bank.
I will go to the park.

BUT… when you talk about home or shopping, don't use to.
I will go home. Do not say- I will go to home.
I will go shopping. Do not say- I will go to shopping.
Now you try…

Use "to" if it is needed or "x" if nothing is needed.
Karen needed to go _____ class. But she decided to go ____ shopping instead. So first she went _____ the bank to get money. Next she went _____ a restaurant. Then she went _____ a huge shopping mall where she bought a new sweater and a hat. After that she decided to go ____ the supermarket go get some groceries. At the end of the day, she was tired, so she went _____ home and fell asleep.

Answers
Karen needed to go to class. But she decided to go (X) shopping instead. So first she wentto a restaurant. Then she went to a huge shopping mall where she bought a new sweater and a hat. After that she decided to go to the supermarket to get some groceries. At the end of the day she was tired, so she went (X) home and fell asleep.




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READING
International Women's Day
Vocabulary:
 vibrant -- fully alive
 discrimination -- unfair treatment
 grim -- harsh, relentless
 pandemic -- disease spread over wide areas
 alleviate -- reduce
 vulnerable -- likelihood towards
 to exhort -- to urge strongly
 moribund -- stagnant, doesn't move well
 pioneer -- first to act
This lesson has been provided by Mark McCarthy. Visit his website at www.getesl.comfor more information on studying English online.

Grammar:
Each of these sentences contains one error. Find and correct the error.

Women urge unity to advance rights as they mark International Women's Day
1) Women marked International Women's Day around the world with vibrant calls for unity for advance sexual equality and women's rights.

2) In Tehran several hundred of Iranian female activists staged a rally to mark of International Women's Day, despite of warnings from authorities that the gathering was illegal. (Omit 3 words)

3) The United Nations urged man to reject violence against woman in
order to protect their daughter from the AIDS pandemic. (Three errors)

4) The Vatican asked the United Nations to condemn all sexual violence against women in a submission to the Commission on the Status of Women meet in New York.

5) Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat meanwhile called on women a world over to oppose the Israeli occupation in the speech marking International Women's Day. (two errors)

6) In Italy, men reported spent five million euros (6.2 million dollars)
sending text messages on their cell phones to tell the women in their lives how much they appreciate them.

7) And Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi exhorted his countrywoman to have more babies, saying legislation must ensure that work and motherhoods are compatible and would spur the country's development.
(two errors)

8) Several governments payed lip service to the women's cause.

9) Stalinist North Korea also marked the day with a call for women to give birth to more children and take a leading role in revive the country's moribund economy.

10) In Norway, often a pioneer in issues of gender equality, Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik said the country was in its way toward reaching its goal of becoming the first country with women in at least 40 percent of public sector management positions.

Check Your Answers:
1) Change "for" to "to"
2) Omit of 3 times
3) change to: men, women, daughters
4) meeting
5) switch a and the
6) reportedly
7) countrywomen, motherhood
8) paid
9) reviving
10) on its way
Night Study in Korea
Vocabulary:
crucial -- of top importance
strain -- pressure
to droop -- to fall downwards
to scribble -- to write carelessly
obsession -- too-strong a focus
to outlaw -- to ban
zeal -- strong desire
slogan -- phrase expression an aim
divisive -- cause argument
to be entrenched - to hold a fixed position
fanatical -- obsession of a fan (see above)
prosperity -- increasing standard of living
This lesson is provided by Mark McCarthy from www.getesl.com, which features low-cost online ESL classes.

Night Study Becoming Par for Course in S. Korea
Reading and Grammar: Directions: Each of the ten sentences below contains one error. Identify and correct the error.

1) A 17-year-old boy drifts into sleep, his head droops into the open textbook in front of him.

2) Around him are sit other teenage South Koreans struggling to stay awake as a tutor scribbles English vocabulary on a blackboard.

3) An almost like-cult devotion to learning has been among the driving forces behind South Korea's rapid economic development ...

4) But concern is growing that the obsession with education has spinned out of control, putting children under stress and families under pressure to pay expensive tuition.

5) The teachings of Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher which stressed the importance of scholarship, influence many East Asian societies.

6) In South Korea, the zeal to learning is reinforced by a belief that knowledge is crucial for the bid to catch up with richer countries such as Japan and stay ahead in China. (Sentence contains three similar errors)

7) A slogan on the wall in Yang's English class reading: "Accomplish your dreams."

8) But dream come at a price: His hagwon* fees are $280 a week.

9) Lee Hang Soo, vice president of Yang's hagwon, says the school provides aid to child from poor families.

10) But he acknowledges which South Korea's education system is divisive.
*Korean Institute

Check Your Answers
1) droops should be drooping
2) are sit should be sit
3) like-cult should be cult-like
4) spinned should be spun
5) which should be who or that
6) to should be for; for should be to; for should be to
7) reading should be reads
8) dream should be dreams
9) child should be children
10) which should be that
History of Halloween
Halloween falls on October 31st each year in North America and other parts of the world. What do you know about Halloween? Do you celebrate it in your country? Here is a little history about it.
Vocabulary
to evolve (v)- to change little by little
spirit (n)- ghost, some people believe the spirit and body separate when a person dies
holy (adj)- sacred, very good, related to religion. Hallow comes from the word holy.
saint (n)- an honored, holy person
evil (adj)- very, very bad
lantern (n)- lamp or enclosed light that can be carried around
turnip (n)- a purple and white vegetable that grows in the ground
Like many other holidays, Halloween has evolved and changed throughout history. Over 2,000 years ago people called the Celts lived in what is now Ireland, the UK, and parts of Northern France. November 1 was their New Year's Day. They believed that the night before the New Year (October 31) was a time when the living and the dead came together.
More than a thousand years ago the Christian church named November 1 All Saints Day (also called All Hallows.) This was a special holy day to honor the saints and other people who died for their religion. The night before All Hallows was called Hallows Eve. Later the name was changed to Halloween.
Like the Celts, the Europeans of that time also believed that the spirits of the dead would visit the earth on Halloween. They worried that evil spirits would cause problems or hurt them. So on that night people wore costumes that looked like ghosts or other evil creatures. They thought if they dressed like that, the spirits would think they were also dead and not harm them.
The tradition of Halloween was carried to America by the immigrating Europeans. Some of the traditions changed a little, though. For example, on Halloween in Europe some people would carry lanterns made from turnips. In America, pumpkins were more common. So people began putting candles inside them and using them as lanterns. That is why you see Jack 'o lanterns today.
These days Halloween is not usually considered a religious holiday. It is primarily a fun day for children. Children dress up in costumes like people did a thousand years ago. But instead of worrying about evil spirits, they go from house to house. They knock on doors and say "trick or treat." The owner of each house gives candy or something special to each trick or treater.
Happy Halloween!

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers below.
1. The Celts thought the spirits of dead people returned to the earth on October 31st.
  True
  False
2. The Celts created All Hallows.
  True
  False
3. All Hallows is on October 31st.
  True
  False
4. The word Halloween comes from the word Hallows eve.
  True
  False
5. A thousand years ago Europeans wore costumes to get candy.
  True
  False
6. Americans still carve turnips to use as lanterns.
  True
  False
7. Today Halloween is especially for children.
  True
  False
8. Children get candy by saying "trick or treat."
  True
  False
                           
Catching a Cold
  Vocabulary
 cure (n,v)- something that makes you well after being sick
 literally (adv)- really, actually, exactly
 virus (n)- very, very small --- that causes sickness
 to get rid of (v)- to stop, to throw away
 congestion (n)- stopped up (when your nose is congested you can't breathe)
 miserable (adj)- very terrible feeling
 fever (n)- heat in your head and body
 remedy- (n) cure, something that makes you well
 liquid (n)- wet and runny like water, milk
 to get over (v)- to finish
Many people catch a cold in the springtime and/ or fall. It makes us wonder... if scientists can send a man to the moon, why can't they find a cure for the common cold. The answer is easy. There are literally hundreds of kinds cold viruses out there. You never know which one you will get, so there isn't a cure for each one.
When a virus attacks your body, your body works hard to get rid of it. Blood rushes to your nose and brings congestion with it. You feel terrible because you can't breathe well, but your body is actually "eating" the virus. Your temperature rises and you get a fever, but the heat of your body is killing the virus. You also have a runny nose to stop the virus from getting to your cells. You may feel miserable, but actually your wonderful body is doing everything it can to kill the cold.
Different people have different remedies for colds. In the United States and some other countries, for example, people might eat chicken soup to feel better. Some people take hot baths and drink warm liquids. Other people take medicines to stop the fever, congestion, and runny nose.
There is one interesting thing to note- some scientists say taking medicines when you have a cold is actually bad for you. The virus stays in you longer because your body doesn't have a way to fight it and kill it. Bodies can do an amazing job on their own. There is a joke, however, on taking medicine when you have a cold. It goes like this:
If takes about 1 week to get over a cold if you don't take medicine, but only 7 days to get over a cold if you take medicine.

Check Your Understanding
True or False
1. There is a cure for the common cold.
  True
  False
2. There are 22 different cold viruses in the world.
  True
  False
3. Heat in your body kills viruses.
  True
  False
4. Congestion means your head feels hot.
  True
  False
5. Some people eat chicken soup to feel better when they have a cold.
  True
  False
6. Scientists always think taking medicine is good when you have a cold.
  True
  False
7. Bodies work hard to try to get rid of viruses.
  True
  False
                           

Levi's Blue Jeans
  Vocabulary
emigrate- (v) to move permanently from one's country to another.
dry goods- (n) clothing, fabric, and other items to sell
miner- (n) a person who searches for gold, diamonds, etc.
durable- (adj) last a long time
fabric- (n) material for clothing, curtains, etc.
tailor- (n) a person who sews clothing
rivet- (n) (v) a metal piece that holds 2 thing together. (You can see the metal on Levi's jeans)
patent- (n) (v) an inventor's right to be the only one making or selling a product
think it over- (v) think about it, decide
Do you enjoy wearing Levi's blue jeans? Blue jeans have become popular all over the world, but do you know how they got started? Read on to find out...
Levi Strauss was born in Germany in the mid 1800's and emigrated to the United States as a young man. He lived in New York City and learned the dry-goods business for several years. In 1853 he took his knowledge and his dreams to San Francisco (California., USA.) His dream to succeed came true over the next 20 years as he became a very successful businessman.
Many of Levi Strauss' customers were cowboys and miners. They needed clothing that was strong and durable. Strauss found a special fabric from France that was comfortable and lasted a long time. It was called "serge de Nimes," which was later shortened to the worddenim.
Another man named Jacob Davis bought large amounts of the denim fabric from Levi Strauss. He was a tailor who made pants for hard-working men. One of his customers was continually tearing the pockets off his pants. So Jacob Davis decided to put rivets on certain parts of the pants to make them stronger. The customer loved the new pants so much that he told all his friends, and soon Jacob Davis was busy making lots of pants with rivets.
Jacob Davis soon realized that using rivets was a great business idea, and he didn't want anybody to steal that idea. He decided that he would need to get a patent. But being a poor tailor, he didn't have enough money to pay for the patent. After thinking it over, he went to the businessman Levi Strauss and told him his idea. He said, "If you agree to pay for the patent, we will share the profits from the riveted pants." Levi Strauss did agree, and the new riveted pant business was called Levi Strauss and Company. Today Levi's jeans are more popular than ever, and Levi's name continues to live on.

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers below.
1. Levi Strauss was born in 1853.
  True
  False
2. Levi Strauss wanted to become a great businessman.
  True
  False
3. Levi Strauss sewed pants in his business.
  True
  False
4. Jacob Davis sewed pants in his business.
  True
  False
5. Jacob David used denim to make pants.
  True
  False
6. Jacob Davis put rivets in pants because they looked good.
  True
  False
7. Levi Strauss didn't want to pay for Jacob Davis' patent.
  True
  False
8. Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis became business partners.
  True
  False
                           

Take a Bath!
  Vocabulary
 a bath- (noun) cleaning one's body by sitting in water
 to bathe- verb meaning to take a bath
 shower- (noun and verb) cleaning one's body by standing under water
 showerhead- the part of the shower that the water comes out of
 to scrub- to remove dirt by rubbing
 to rinse- to remove soap or dirt with water
 soothing- relaxing
 drain- hole in the ground or bathtub that the water goes down
Traveling is fun because you can see how people in other parts of the world live. One thingtravelers don't often think about before traveling is how other cultures bathe. And bathrooms in many countries may be different from the kind you are used to.
In the United States, most people take a shower once a day in the morning. The showerhead is usually mounted on the wall and cannot be moved. The bather simply stands under the water, gets wet, scrubs with soap and often a washcloth, and then rinses off.
Children often take a bath each night and enjoy playing with small toys such as boats and rubber ducks. Many adults, especially women, enjoy a soothing bath to get rid of stress at the end of the day.
It is important to remember that when you take a shower or bath in the United States, you should be careful to keep the water inside the bathtub or shower. Unlike bathrooms in many countries, there is no drain in the floor. If water gets on the floor it cannot go anywhere and must be cleaned up with a towel or mop. It can also cause problems for the floor. So be careful.

Check Your Understanding
Choose the correct answer. Check the answers below.
1. Travelers don't often think about ___ in other countries before traveling.
 a. bathing
 b. food
 c. money
2. Americans often take a shower in the ___.
 a. morning
 b. afternoon
 c. night
3. Children often take a ___ at night.
 a. shower
 b. bath
 c. swim
4. Sometimes adults take a bath to ___.
 a. shower
 b. relax
 c. play with toys
5. American floors don't have a
 a. bathtub
 b. showerhead
 c. drain
                 

Summer Solstice
  Vocabulary
  solstice /'sol stis/- the 2 times of the year when the sun is at its greatest distance from the earth's equator
  equator /'ee kway dr/- the imaginary (not real) line the divides earth into 2 parts
 hemisphere /'hem is feer/- hemi means to divide into two, sphere means a round object like the earth. Hemisphere means one half of the circle. The northern hemisphere means above the equator or (middle) of the earth.
 ancient /'ayn shent/- very old
 come to pass- happen
June 21st (or 22nd) is the summer solstice for the northern hemisphere*. Solstice in Latin means "sun standing still." On that day it seems like the sun is standing still because there is more daylight than on any other day. It is the first day of summer and a special day for many groups of people.
Many ancient cultures had ceremonies on solstice. They celebrated light and fire. Many people also thought it was a time for love and growth. Nowadays many places around the world have parades or parties.
The great English writer, William Shakespeare, said** whatever you dream on this night will come to pass. Have great dreams on June 21! And if you are in the northern hemisphere, enjoy the longest day of the year.
* Summer solstice is on December 21 (or 22nd) in the southern hemisphere. June 21 (or 22nd) is the southern hemisphere's Winter solstice.
** in his play A Midsummer's Night Dream

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers below.
1. Solstice means that it looks like the sun doesn't move.
  True
  False
2. Summer solstice is on July 21.
  True
  False
3. Many ancient people celebrated summer solstice with fire.
  True
  False
4. Nowadays no one celebrates solstice.
  True
  False
5. Shakespeare said whatever you dream about on June 21 will happen.
  True
  False
                   

Test Taking Skills

Vocabulary

Anxiety Feeling- very nervous and uncomfortable

Discipline- control over your behavior

Freeze up- be unable to move or think clearly because of fear

Material- the content information in a book or test

Second guess yourself- have doubts about a decision that felt right the first time.
Test taking is a skill you can learn. Do you freeze up when a teacher says it’s time for a test? Do you get so nervous that you make stupid mistakes? Unlearning test anxiety takes mental discipline. Study the following steps and your test scores will go up in all subjects!
1. Do your homework and go to class. This way you will know the material and won’t have as much reason to be afraid.
2. Sleep well the night before. Review the material in the afternoon, then relax in the evening. Eat a good breakfast. You need to be strong and refreshed to do your best.
3. Come prepared with paper, pen, pencil, eraser, a watch, and book or dictionary if they are allowed.
4. Read the instructions twice. Read the questions well before you answer.
5. Breathe. When you feel yourself start to get anxious, put your pencil down on the table, out of your hand, close your eyes, and count to 10. If you think you don’t have time, remember that if you’re anxious, you can’t think well and will make stupid mistakes. Only relaxed can you do your best.
Today's lesson is given to you by Deborah Brooks at www.yourpersonaltutor.com
Deborah teaches English writing by internet. She has students from all over the world who send writing to her by email.
Students can be high beginning to very advanced. Writing can be academic, personal or for business. Send her an email to see if she can help you!

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers below.
1. Study every day, not just before a test.
  True
  False
2. You should stay up late studying the night before a big test.
  True
  False
3. Don’t bring anything. They always have a clock on the wall.
  True
  False
4. Read the instructions twice before you answer.
  True
  False
5. When you start getting anxious, keep going. Remember, you don’t have enough time to do everything.
  True
  False
6. If your answer doesn’t look good on second reading, change it.
  True
  False
                           
Improving Your English
  A lot of people are always asking, "How do I improve my English?" There are many possible answers, but here are just a few pieces of advice.
Be responsible for your own learning
Sure you have teachers, reading materials, and websites to help you with your English, but who is really responsible for making sure you learn English well? Nobody but you. Make sure you are the one who is taking charge of your own learning. There is a good article about the subject on the 5 Minute English website. It's at www.5minuteenglish.com/articles. Check it out.
Immerse yourself in English as much as possible
Immerse means to be surrounded by something. If you are immersed in English, it is all around you. Of course this isn't always possible, but you can do some things to surround yourself in English from time to time.
Listen to the radio in English. If there are no English radio stations where you live, listen to one on the internet.
Watch TV and movies in English. If you have English channels on your TV, watch them. If they have subtitles (the words written in your language) underneath the picture, see if they can be turned off. Some people even tape paper across the bottom of the screen so they can't see the words. Most DVD's are great because you can choose the language you want to hear.
Speak English to your friends. Get a conversation buddy (friend) and speak in English as much as possible. If it is a person whose native language is the same as your own, you may feel silly speaking in English at first. But don't worry. Continue to do it and it will become more natural to you. Finding friends whose native language is English is even better. Ask your friend to correct you when needed.
Study or travel to an English-speaking country. Of course the best way to immerse yourself in the English language is to live in an all English environment. You'll find yourself surrounded with the language everywhere you turn. It can be a more difficult and expensive choice, but you may find it to be a very valuable and helpful experience.
Other ideas. Take an English class, join an English group, find a tutor, read English magazines. Do whatever you can to immerse yourself in the language.
Monitor yourself
This means to pay attention to how you use English. Think (a little) about how you are going to say something before it comes out of your mouth. But don't think about all of the problems you have in English at the same time. Just choose something your know you are having difficulty with and work on using it correctly. For example, if you know that you have problems remembering to use a, an, and the, spend a few days trying to put them into sentences as you speak. Don't worry about anything else. Concentrate on that. When you feel that you are improving, choose something else to work on. Just keep trying and little by little, your English will get better everyday.

English Vocabulary Lessons
Leaning the English vocabulary is something that many people need to do when they are visiting the United States. There are great English vocabulary tips that you can find in a book. Your nearest bookstore will have a great little American English dictionary that will make learning it very easy. Check out all the different books that are offered before making the decision on which one you want. You might want several different ones.

Developing an English vocabulary will take a little bit of time. The best thing to do when you learn English vocabulary is to take an hour each day to go over several different vocabulary lessons. The more time you spend on it the easier it becomes.

Once you know the basics of the English vocabulary you will be able to speak it fairly well. Whenever you don’t understand someone that speaks English, simply ask them to repeat it. The more you hear English the better you will become at speaking it.

The more you practice English, the better you will become. Conversing will soon be easier for you. A class is a great way to learn the English language. When you have a teacher they can take individual time with you so that you can learn the language and use it very well.

There are several ways that you can find a good place to teach you English. You can try searching online and also you can ask around at a college or other school in your area. They will know where you can find a great class to learn English.

Many people teach themselves English by using a tape. With a tape you will learn to speak by listening to the words and repeating them. If you plan to learn English this way, you can do so at any time. While you are driving or just relaxing you can listen to the tape and repeat the words. Soon you will know the English language and at your own speed. Once you learn it, speaking it will become easier and easier.


Dogs, Dogs, Dogs
Idioms Using the Word "Dog"

Can you guess the meanings of the following idioms using the word dog?
1. You can't teach an old dog new tricks
2. To be as sick as a dog
3. Every dog has its day!
4. To be top dog
5. To go to the dogs
6. To live a dog's life
7. To work like a dog
8. To be dog-eat-dog
9. To be in the doghouse
10. His bark is worse than his bite
11. To bark up the wrong tree
12. Let sleeping dogs lie
13. To argue like cat and dog
14. To rain cats and dogs
 a. the worst life
 b. to be in line for trouble
 c. to be looking the wrong place
 d. a person used to doing things one way likely won't change.
 e. to rain extremely hard
 f. work extremely hard
 g. to not back up threatening comments with action
 h. really sick
 i. to deteriorate, to get worse
 k. some problems are best not investigated
 l. a hyper competitive environment
 m. to be in total disagreement
 n. even a person with ill luck will be lucky one day
 o. to be the leader / decision maker

Answers
1-d, 2-h, 3-n, 4-o, 5-i, 6-a, 7-f, 8-l, 9-b, 10-g, 11-c, 12-k, 13-m, 14-e

Vocabulary

 flu virus- influenza virus, thing that causes you to become sick
 immune system- your body's system that keeps you well
 glory- praise, honor
 keep one's eye on- continue to watch
Sick as a Dog

  Susan: Oh Shannon, you look as sick as a dog. What's the matter?

Shannon: I feel terrible. I think I might have caught that flu virus that has been going around. I've been working like a dog and had a lot of stress lately. Maybe that's lowered my immune system.

Susan: I know you told me about that argument you had with your coworker. You shouldn't worry so much about being top dog. Let him have some glory, too.

Shannon: I know. I don't know why I get so upset about everything. And there's another thing. If I get into any more fights with anyone in the office, I'm going to be in the doghouse. My boss is already keeping his eye on me.
Get the phone!
  The phone rings and Darren answers it. Listen as Darren talks to the lady on the phone and his wife who is in the bathtub.

Darren: Carol... telephone...

Carol: Who is it?

Darren: I don't know. Wait a sec... (to the person on the phone) May I ask who's calling, please? (pause) Carol... it's Susan.

Carol: Oh, I'm in the bathtub. Can you ask her if it's important?

Darren: Sorry Susan, Carol can't come to the phone right now. Is there something I can help you with? (pause) Oh, I see. (to Carol) Carol... she wants to know if the party is tonight or tomorrow night.

Carol: Tell her it's tomorrow night at 8:00 at Jill's house. Tell her to bring a dessert if she wants.

Darren: (to Susan) She said it's tomorrow night at 8:00 at Jill's house. She said you could bring a dessert if you want. (pause) Sure, no problem. Have a good evening. 'Bye.
Things to know...
Get the phone = answer the phone.
Wait a sec = wait a second. Another way to tell someone to wait.
(Someone) can't come to the phone right now. This is a polite way to tell someone the person they would like to talk is busy. It would be a little rude or embarrassing to say someone is in the bathroom (unless it's a very close friend.)
Tell her to bring a dessert. Often when there is a party, people bring food to share.

Check Your Understanding
Choose the best answer. Check your answers below.

1. Who answers the telephone?
 a. Darren
 b. Carol
 c. Susan
2. Where is Carol?
 a. at work
 b. in the kitchen
 c. in the bathroom
3. What is a polite way to say someone can't talk?
 a. Carol is in the bathtub.
 b. Carol doesn't want to talk to you.
 c. Carol can't come to the phone right now.
4. When is the party?
 a. tonight
 b. tomorrow night
 c. 7:00
5. At the end of the conversation, Darren says "Sure, no problem.*" What do you think Susan said before that?
 a. Thanks for your help.
 b. I will bring a dessert.
 c. Where is Carol right now?
                         
* No problem = you are welcome.
Listening Exercise: The Birthday Party
  Vocabulary

  wait up- wait, wait for me
  what's up- what is happening? what do you want to talk about?
  hang out (slang)- be with friends doing nothing special
 bring (someone) along- invite someone, have someone join you
  come along- follow, join you

Sarah: Hey Lisa, wait up! I've wanted to have a chance to talk to you.

Lisa: Hi! What's up?

Sarah: This weekend I'm having a birthday party for Ted. I'd like you to come.

Lisa: I'd love to. When is it?

Sarah: We're having it this Saturday at 8:00 at my house. We're going to order a pizza and play some games. Then whoever wants to stay longer can hang out and watch a video.

Lisa: It sounds like a lot of fun. But now that I think about it, I promised I would do something with Nathan Saturday night.

Sarah: Well why don't you bring him along? It would be fun. Ted would really like that. I'm sure.

Lisa: Really? That would be great. Okay, I'll ask Nathan to come along. *What can I bring?

Sarah: Nothing. Just bring yourselves. No presents are necessary and everything else has been planned.
*It is polite to offer to bring something to a party.

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers below.
1. Sarah wants to invite Lisa to a beach party.
  True
  False
2. Lisa asks Sarah what is up on top of the roof.
  True
  False
3. It is Nathan's birthday this weekend.
  True
  False
4. Lisa has plans to do something with Nathan on Saturday night.
  True
  False
5. Sarah wants Nathan to come to the party, too.
  True
  False
6. Everybody is going to watch a video at Sarah's house.
  True
  False
7. Lisa needs to buy a present for Ted's birthday party.
  True
  False
                           

Listening Exercise: The Fishing Spot
 Vocabulary

  relive- live the same way again, do something again
  make me- require me to do something
  worm- small, long, and thin soft creature that lives in the dirt, it has no legs and fish like to eat it
  hook- sharp curved metal piece for catching fish
  on second thought- after I think about it for a minute I realize...
  spot- place

Dad: This is going to be a great camping trip. I haven't been to this mountain since I was a young boy. Oh, I remember how peaceful it was and how great everything smelled. And the fishing was fantastic! My brother and I used to catch huge fish and fry them over the fire.
Daughter: Yeah, Dad, we've heard this story since we were babies. We know- peaceful scenery, good smell, fish, everything. I'm glad we're finally going to go so you can relive your old memories. You aren't going to make me fish with you though, are you?
Dad: Of course you are going to fish. You'll love it! Putting the worm on the hook... standing out in the cold water... waiting until the fish take a bite. Hmm... on second thought, maybe you won't like it so much. Why don't you just cook the fish for tonight's dinner?
Daughter: I guess I could do that. Anyway, when are we going to be there? I feel like we've been driving for hours.
Dad: It's just around this corner. You'll really love it. Hey, wait a minute! What's this shopping center doing in my old fishing spot?!?

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers below.
1. Dad hasn't been to this fishing spot since last year.
  True
  False
2. Dad used to go fishing with his father.
  True
  False
3. Dad has talked a lot about this fishing spot in the past.
  True
  False
4. The daughter also loves to fish.
  True
  False
5. Dad says his daughter MUST fish.
  True
  False
6. The daughter is going to cook the fish.
  True
  False
7. Dad's fishing place hasn't changed since he was a boy.
  True
  False
                           
Listening Exercise: Asking about Restaurants
Many countries, including the United States, have a variety of ethnic restaurants. This dialog is about a woman who is looking for a restaurant in a mall. A man at the information booth is helping her.
  Vocabulary

  variety- many kinds  ethnic- from different countries
 information booth- a small place where people can ask questions and get information
 mall- a shopping center with many stores
 fast food- restaurants like McDonald's and Burger King. The food is usually prepared before you order it.
 pricey- expensive
 a bother- a problem
 strikes my fancy- (slang) makes me interested
 indecision- not being able to decide
 buffet- a restaurant with many different kinds of foods. You serve yourself to whatever you want to eat.

Susan: Excuse me, sir. I'm looking for a place to eat. Can you tell me if there are any restaurants in this mall?

Woman at Information Booth: Sure. There are several. What kind of food are you thinking about?

Susan: I'm not sure. Anything but fast food.

Woman: There is a nice Japanese restaurant upstairs. It's a little pricey but the food is good.

Susan: Oh. Sounds good, but I ate Japanese food last night. I'd rather try something else.

Woman: Okay. How about Italian*? Or maybe Chinese?

Susan: Italian sounds good, but so does Chinese. I just can't decide. Are there any American places here?

Woman: Yes, there's a very good steak house downstairs, and you'll find TGI Friday's**across the parking lot. What about either of those?

Susan: I'm sorry to be such a bother, but nothing strikes my fancy. I guess I just won't eat anything for awhile.

Woman: Well, I'm afraid that's all there is here in the mall.

Susan: That's too bad. I'm sorry about my indecision. I guess what, what I really need is a good buffet.

Woman: Hmmm.... I remember going to a buffet not far from here. They have foods from several different countries. It's about two blocks away. It's quite good, too.

Susan: That sounds great. Maybe I should do that.***
*The word food is implied here.
**Name of a restaurant.
***Meaning go there.

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers below.
1. Susan doesn't want to eat fast food.
  True
  False
2. Susan hates Japanese food.
  True
  False
3. The Japanese restaurant in the mall is expensive.
  True
  False
4. Susan hates Italian food.
  True
  False
5. Susan wants to eat a variety of foods.
  True
  False
6. The woman at the information booth knows all of the restaurants in the mall.
  True
  False
7. Susan decides to eat Chinese food.
  True
  False
8. The buffet restaurant is far away.
  True
  False
                           
Listening Exercise: The Weather's Great!
  Vocabulary

  gorgeous- beautiful
 What do you say...- (slang) What do you think about...
 to pack- make and take
 to pick something up- buy
 to head down- to go to
 to toss around- to throw
 leash- a rope or chain for holding an animal
 dog dish- plate for dogs to eat out of
 to grab- to get quickly, to take suddenly
 tablecloth- fabric or material we put on a table to keep it clean
 thunder- loud noise in the sky when a storm comes. The light in the sky is calledlightning. You can see a picture below.
 You've got to be kidding- It's hard to believe. Something you say when you are surprised.
Dialog

Diana: It's a gorgeous day today! What do you say we take a picnic and go down to the park?

Doug: Sounds great! Should we pack some sandwiches or pick up something along the way?

Diana: Why don't we stop and get some fried chicken at KFC and head down to Murray Park? Let's bring a few games, too.

Doug: Okay, I'll get the Frisbee and a softball so we can toss them around. And... what do you think? Should we bring the dog?

Diana: Definitely. He'll love it down there.

Doug: I'll get his leash and dog dish. I'm grabbing a tablecloth, too, so we don't have to eat on a dirty picnic table.

Diana: Good idea. I'll bring some napkins. I always get so dirty when I eat fried chicken.

Doug: Wait a minute...

Diana: What is it?

Doug: Did you hear that? I heard thunder. A storm is coming.

Diana: Oh no, you've got to be kidding...

Check Your Understanding
True or False
1. Diane and Doug want to go to the park because it's a beautiful day.
  True
  False
2. The couple will bring their dog.
  True
  False
3. They will make some fried chicken.
  True
  False
4. They will go fishing in the park.
  True
  False
5. Doug will take a tablecloth and some games.
  True
  False
6. Doug is joking about a storm coming.
  True
  False
                 
Listening Exercise: What do you like to do?
  Vocabulary
 relieving/ to relieve- to get rid of, to stop
 you guys- you (other people), a slang way to say you (plural)
 buddy- slang for friend
 hang gliding- flying with wings and no motor like the picture on the left
 as free as a bird- the feeling of being free
 awesome- slang for great or wonderful
 scaredy cat- slang for a person who feels afraid
 to knit- to make sweaters, scarves, etc. with yarn
Dialog
Ann: What kinds of things do you like to do in your free time?

Dean: I like playing basketball. I play on a city team every Saturday afternoon.

Marcus: I didn't know that. How long have you been playing?

Dean: For about a year now. But it's not the only thing I like to do. I also enjoy painting. It's great for relieving stress.

Ann: Really? Are you pretty good at it?

Dean: Not too bad. But I'm not a Picasso or Rembrandt. How about you guys? What do you like to do for hobbies?

Marcus: Well, a couple of times a month I go up to Widow's Mountain with some buddies and go hang gliding.

Ann: No way! You do? That sounds dangerous! Aren't you scared?

Marcus: Not at all. It's fascinating. It's so beautiful up there. I feel as free as a bird. You should try it sometime.

Ann: It sounds awesome, but I think I'm too much of a scaredy cat to try it.

Dean: Wow! I might want to try it sometime. Do you think I could?

Marcus: Sure, how about this Saturday? I'll let you know the details later.

Dean: Sounds great! I can't believe I'm going to do it. By the way Ann, you never told us what you do in your spare time.

Ann: Well, uh, I like to knit...

Check Your Understanding
True or False Check your answers below.
1. Marcus likes to play basketball.
  True
  False
2. Dean thinks basketball is great for relieving stress.
  True
  False
3. Marcus goes hang gliding every Saturday.
  True
  False
4. Ann doesn't want to try hang gliding.
  True
  False
5. Marcus and Dean will go hang gliding on Sunday.
  True
  False
6. Ann can make things with yarn.
  True
  False
                 
Listening Exercise: Movies
  Vocabulary
Kinds of movies:
 comedy- funny movies
 drama- serious movies
 romance- movies about love (also romantic movie)
 comedy-drama- funny movies about love
 horror- scary movies
 documentary- story of something that really happened
 mystery- a secret, something you don't know. In movies we have to wait to see the ending to know how something happened
 action and adventure- movies with a lot of action, for example fighting or
 western- movies about cowboys
 musical- movies with singing and dancing
Other:
 to be into- (slang) to really like or enjoy  came out- started or began (this phrasal verb has other meanings, too)  stuff- things
Dialogue

Harry: Hey, Elizabeth, how would you like to go see a movie tonight?

Elizabeth: Sounds great! What would you like to see?

Harry: I don't know... how about that new horror movie at the Arlington Theater?

Elizabeth: Oh, I heard about that. It sounds a little scary to me. I'm more into romantic movies. Or maybe a romantic comedy.

Harry: No way! I hate that kind of stuff!

Elizabeth: Really? Well then, what kinds of movies do you like?

Harry: I guess I'm really into action and adventure type of movies.

Elizabeth: Oh yeah, well I guess they are okay, as long as they aren't too bloody. I also heard about this great new musical that just came out. What do you think about that?

Harry: Musical? I don't know. That doesn't sound too exciting. Is there anything we can agree on?

Elizabeth: It doesn't seem like it. Oh, I remember another movie that came out last week. It's a mystery and it had a little romance and some action, too. I heard it's pretty exciting because nobody can guess who the killer is and it has a surprise ending. What do you think about that one?

Harry: I guess that doesn't sound too bad. What time does it start?

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Click the arrow below to check your answers.
1. Elizabeth really hates action and adventure movies.
  True
  False
2. Harry likes movies about love.
  True
  False
3. A horror movie is scary.
  True
  False
4. Elizabeth likes musicals.
  True
  False
5. Action and adventure movies make Harry feel scared.
  True
  False
6. A new mystery movie came out yesterday.
  True
  False
7. Harry and Elizabeth both like mysteries.
  True
  False
                   

Listening Exercise: Chores
chores- something that has to be done that we don't really enjoy. In this case- things (work) that needs to be done in the house to keep it in good condition
Examples of chores:

 make the bed- arrange the blankets to look nice
 wash the dishes/ dry the dishes/ put the dishes away
 fill the dishwasher/ empty the dishwasher- put dishes in, take them out
 take out the garbage (or trash)- from inside to outside
 sweep the floor- with a broom  mop the floor- with a mop  vacuum the rug (or carpet)- with a vacuum cleaner
 clean the bathroom/ clean the sink/ clean the toilet
 mow the lawn (or grass)- cut the grass
 clean out the garage- remove things that don't belong there
Dialogue

Mother: Children, Grandma and Grandpa are coming to visit this evening and I need you to help me with some chores. Have you all made your beds?

Children: Yes, Mom.

Mother: Tommy, I want you to fill the dishwasher and then wash and dry the big dishes that can't fit in the dishwasher.

Tommy: Okay.

Mother: Tracy, I want you to take out the garbage. Then sweep and mop the kitchen floor, okay?

Tracy: Sure. I'm excited Grandma and Grandpa are coming.

Mother: And Evan, would you please clean the bathroom?

Evan: Oh Mom, I hate cleaning the toilet.

Mother: Okay, you clean the sink and bathtub, and I'll clean the toilet. But then I would like you to help your Dad clean out the garage. Deal?*

Evan: Yeah.

Mother: Okay then, let's get started. I'm going out to mow the lawn. Come get me if you need me.
*Deal?= do you agree?

Check Your Understanding
True or False. Check your answers by clicking on the arrow below.
1. The children must help clean the house.
  True
  False
2. Tommy has to wash and dry the small dishes.
  True
  False
3. Tracy has to sweep and mop the bathroom floor.
  True
  False
4. Evan has to clean the toilet.
  True
  False
5. Dad has to mow the lawn.
  True
  False
6. Grandma and Grandpa are coming tomorrow.
  True
  False
                 
Listening Exercise: The Job Interview
  Vocabulary

 resume- a summary of a person's work and education
 responsibilities- things that must be done
 to oversee- to be the boss of, to make sure something is done, to supervise
 to keep track of- to be aware of or notice something
 inventory- the number of items a store has
 to handle- to take care of, to deal with
 to be transferred- to be moved from one place to another
 an opening- an available job
 a position- a job
 reputation- how other people feel about something, the opinion of other people
 to jump on something- to do something immediately

Ms. Ballard: I see on your resume that you worked as a manager at Computer Country. Could you tell me a little more about your responsibilities there?

Carey Cornwall: Sure. I was responsible for overseeing about 30 employees, I did all of the ordering for the store, and I kept track of the inventory.

Ms. Ballard: What was the most difficult part of your job?

Carey Cornwall: Probably handling angry customers. We didn't have them very often, but when we did, I needed to make sure they were well taken care of. After all, the customer is always right.

Ms. Ballard: That's how we feel here, too. How long did you work there?

Carey Cornwall: I was there for 3 1/2 years. I left the company last month.

Ms. Ballard: And why did you leave?

Casey Cornwall: My husband has been transferred to Emoryville and I understand your company has an opening there, too.

Ms. Ballard: Yes, that's right, we do. But the position won't start until the middle of next month. Would that be a problem for you?

Carey Cornwall: No, not at all. My husband's new job doesn't begin for a few weeks, so we thought we would spend some time driving to Emoryville and stop to see my parents.

Ms. Ballard: That sounds nice. So tell me, why are you interested in this particular position?

Carey Cornwall: I know that your company has a great reputation and a wonderful product. I have thought many times that I would like to be a part of it. When I heard about the opening in Emoryville, I jumped on the opportunity.

Ms. Ballard: Well, I'm glad you did. Now, please tell me about...

Check Your Understanding
Choose True or False. Check your answers by clicking the arrow below.
1. Carey was a boss at Computer Country.
  True
  False
2. Carey knew how many computers were in her store.
  True
  False
3. Carey liked taking care of angry customers.
  True
  False
4. Carey's husband has a new job in a new city.
  True
  False
5. Carey would be able to start her new job next week.
  True
  False
6. Carey would like to work at Ms. Ballard's company.
  True
  False
7. Ms. Ballard's company isn't liked by many people.
  True
  False
                 
Listening Exercise: The New Apartment
  Vocabulary

 commute- going (usually) from home to work and from work to home everyday
 killing me- very difficult for me
 I know what you mean- I understand
 walking distance- very close, you can walk there
 not working out- It's not good for what I need
 landlord- person who owns the building
 repairs- fixing broken things
 breaking down- becoming broken
 budget- how much money you have to use
 furnished- it has furniture included (sofa, bed, etc.)
 utilities- electricity, water, gas, etc. You usually have to pay extra for these
Dialog
Henry: I am so tired of my commute to work. Driving all those hours is just killing me.

Lance: Yeah, I know what you mean. I used to drive two hours to work each way. But now I live within walking distance of my work. It's great.

Henry: You're kidding. I didn't know that. Did you move?

Lance: No, I got a new job near my work.

Henry: Well, I don't think I can change my job, but I am thinking about changing my apartment. The one I have just isn't working out.

Lance: What's wrong with it?

Henry: Well, besides being too far from work, I'm having some problems with my landlord. He keeps raising the rent, but he never does any repairs. Everything is breaking down.

Lance: That's terrible. Listen, I think there is a vacancy in my apartment building. And my landlord is excellent. And I'm sure it would be closer to your work than you are now.

Henry: Really? But is it expensive? My budget isn't that big.

Lance: No, it's not that expensive. And it's furnished and the utilities are included.

Henry: That sounds great. I'd love to see it. When can we go?

Lance: How about now?

Henry: Sure. I'll drive.

Questions and Answers
Read the questions and choose T (true) or F (false). Check your answers by clicking the arrow below.
1. Henry loves driving to work everyday.
  True
  False
2. Lance can walk to work.
  True
  False
3. Henry doesn't like his apartment.
  True
  False
4. Henry's apartment has a lot of broken things.
  True
  False
5. Henry likes his landlord.
  True
  False
6. Henry has a lot of money.
  True
  False
7. Lance doesn't know of any apartment vacancies.
  True
  False
8. Lance has to pay for the utilities in his apartment.
  True
  False
                 
Listening Exercise: Let's Take a Picture
  Vocabulary
 honey- a word people in love often call each other
 refrigerator- cold place where food is kept
 pass through- walk from one place to another
 to get (film) developed- to have the film changed to pictures
 automatic timer- you press a button, and the camera takes a picture by itself after a few seconds
 tripod- piece of equipment with 3 legs that holds the camera so you don't have to hold it
 set up- arranged  say cheese- what English speakers often say when having a picture taken. When you say the word cheese, your mouth forms a smile.
Dialog
Maria- Honey, I'm really going to miss you while you are gone.

Jacob- It's only going to be for a week. Hey, why don't I take a picture of us together and you can put it up on the refrigerator. You can think of me every time you pass through the kitchen.

Maria- But it'll take a few days for it to get developed and you will almost be home by then.

Jacob- No, honey. Remember I got that digital camera for my birthday? It doesn't use film so it doesn't have to be developed. We'll just print out the picture on our printer.

Maria- Oh, right. Okay. But who's going to take our picture?

Jacob- Hmmm... good question. It's too late to ask someone for help. Everyone's sleeping.

Maria- Doesn't your camera have an automatic timer on it?

Jacob- Yeah, it does. Good idea. We just have to attach it to a tripod and get it set up.

Maria- Great. But first I'm going to change my shirt.
A few minutes later...

Jacob- Say cheese!

Maria- Cheese.

Jacob- Okay, let's take a look.

Maria- Oh, honey. Your eyes are closed!

Jacob- Yes, and you have a strange smile.

Maria- Let's try it again.

Questions and Answers
1. A word people who love each other call one another:
 a. money
 b. honey
 c. idiot
2. Jacob is going away for _____.
 a. one week
 b. one month
 c. one year
3. Jacob suggested Maria put the picture on the _____.
 a. wall
 b. stove
 c. refrigerator
4. You have to get film _____ to see the pictures.
 a. revamped
 b. developed
 c. enveloped
5. How can you get the pictures from a digital camera?
 a. using a printer
 b. using a pencil
 c. using a map
6. Who will take the picture?
 a. the neighbor
 b. the grandmother
 c. the automatic timer
7. Who had a strange smile in the first picture?
 a. Jacob
 b. Maria
 c. the dog
                   
Listening Exercise: In a Hotel
 Vocabulary
 double bed- made for two people
 single bed- made for one person
 I'm afraid...- a polite way to give some bad news
 smoking and non-smoking rooms/ floors- rooms and floors in buildings that allow or don't allow smoking
 at this time- right now
 would you be interested...- a polite way to say "do you want...?"
 you never know...- it's difficult to know when...
 vacancy- empty rooms/ a room available
Dialog
Hotel Clerk: Welcome to the Home Again Hotel, sir. How may I help you?

Mr. Edwin: Hello. I would like a non-smoking room with a double bed.

Hotel Clerk: Do you have a reservation?

Mr. Edwin: No, I'm afraid I don't.

Hotel Clerk: Hmmm. Let me see. We don't seem to have any rooms with double beds right now. We are very full tonight. We've got a large conference going on.

Mr. Edwin: I see. So what do you have available?

Hotel Clerk: Well, not much. It seems we have a small corner room on the 5th floor. It has a single bed and a bathroom with a shower.

Mr. Edwin: And is it a non-smoking room?

Hotel Clerk: No, the 5th floor is a smoking floor. But that is the only room we have at this time. Would you be interested in it?

Mr. Edwin: Wow. That's terrible. I didn't realize... I knew I should have made a reservation before I left home.

Hotel Clerk: Yes, you never know if we will have vacancies or not.

Mr. Edwin: I guess I'll have to take that room, then. I don't have time to look for another hotel.

Hotel Clerk: Great. First, let me just have your name...

Questions and Answers
Check True or False. Check your answers below by clicking on the arrow.
1. Mr. Edwin would like a single bed in a non-smoking room.
 True  False
2. There is a large conference at the hotel right now.
 True  False
3. It's easy to know if the hotel has vacancies without making a reservation.
 True  False
4. The hotel has only one room available.
 True  False
5. Mr. Edwin made a reservation before leaving home.
 True  False
6. Mr. Edwin is going to look for another hotel.
 True  False
7. The hotel clerk was polite to Mr. Edwin.
 True  False
                   
Listening Exercise: Shopping for Clothes
This is a very common conversation for when someone goes shopping.
Vocabulary

 are you just looking? = do you want to look alone?
 to have a sale = a store will have many things at a discount (The store is having a sale.)
 to be on sale = one or more items at a discount (This shirt is on sale.)
 hanger = holds the clothes (a picture of it is on the left)
 rack = a metal (or other kind) bar that holds clothes. You put your clothes on a hanger and then put the hanger on a rack.
 fitting room = the place where you try on clothes
 max out a credit card = (this is slang) It means you have reached your limit. If you cannot spend more money on your credit card, you have maxed it out.
 how would you like to pay? = do you want to pay with cash, a credit card, or a check?
 how does it fit? = is it a good size for you?
 I'll take it = I'll buy it
 who should I make the check out to? = what name should I write on the check?
 tax = the extra money a store charges. It goes to the government.
 I.D. = identification (card)

Store Clerk: Hi. Welcome to Angie's. Can I help you find something or are you just looking?

Marianne: I'm not sure. Aren't you having a sale right now?

Store Clerk: Everything on these two racks over here is on sale.

Marianne: Thanks. Oooo. This sweater is nice. But it looks a little big. Do you have this in a smaller size?

Store Clerk: I think so. Let me look. Oh, here's one. Would you like to use the fitting room to try it on?

Marianne: Sure. Thanks.

...a little later...

Store Clerk: How did it fit?

Marianne: Not too bad. I think I'll take it.

Store Clerk: Great. (She takes it off the hanger) How would you like to pay?

Marianne: Well, I'm almost maxed out on my credit card, so I think I'll pay with a check.

Store Clerk: Okay, with tax it comes to $24.93.*

Marianne: Who should I make the check out to?

Store Clerk: Angie's.

Marianne: Here you are.

Store Clerk: Can I see some I.D. too, please?

Marianne: Sure, here is my driver's license.

Store Clerk: Thanks. Here you go. Enjoy your sweater. And have a nice day.

Marianne: Thanks. You too.
* You pronounce this - twenty-four dollars and ninety-three cents, OR you can say twenty-four ninety-three if everyone already knows you are talking about money.

Questions and Answers
1. What is the name of the store?
a. Arby's
b. Angie's
c. Angelo's
d. Sheri's
                         
2. How many racks of clothes are on sale?
a. One
b. Two
c. Three
d. Four
                         
3. When Marianne sees the sweater, she likes it. But she would prefer ___.
a. a smaller size
b. a larger size
c. a green one
d. a red one
                         
4. A fitting room is a place where you...
a. buy clothes
b. make clothes
c. try on clothes
d. hide clothes
                         
5. Marianne says she "will take it." It means she will...
a. buy nothing
b. try on the sweater
c. use her credit card
d. buy the sweater
                         
6. Marianne's credit card is almost maxed out so...
a. she will use it to buy the sweater
b. she will write a check instead
c. she cannot buy the sweater
d. she will use a different credit card
                         
7. Which item is not an I.D.?
a. a driver's license
b. a student card with a picture
c. a passport
d. an Essay about English
                         
Listening Exercise: Telephone Call to a Business
This is a typical business telephone conversation. The receptionist (person who answers the phone) says that her boss is not at work now. This conversation is somewhat formal. It is a usual business telephone conversation.
  Receptionist: Good Afternoon, Abernathy and Jones1, how may I help you2?

Ms.* Zellinger: Yes, I would like to speak to Joseph Abernathy, please.

Receptionist: I'm sorry, Mr. Abernathy is out of the office3 at the moment4.

Ms. Zellinger: Do you know when to expect him5?
Receptionist: I should be back about 3:00. Would you like to leave a message?

Ms. Zellinger: Yes. My name is Belinda Zellinger.

Receptionist: Is that Z-E-L-I-N-G-E-R6?

Ms. Zellinger: It's with two L's7.

Receptionist: Okay, and may I tell him what this is in regards to8?

Ms. Zellinger: Well, it's a rather personal matter...9

Receptionist: That's okay. How can he reach you10, Ms. Zellinger?

Ms. Zellinger: At 555-4857.

Receptionist: 555-485711. Fine. I will give him the message as soon as he returns12.

Ms: Zellinger: Thank you very much.

Receptionist: You are welcome. Goodbye.
Notes about the dialog. Here is information about the phrases with numbers above.
1- Abernathy and Jones- this is the company's name
2- how may I help you? = can I help you?
3- out of the office = not here
4- at the moment = now
5- when to expect him = when will he come back?
6- remember, it is important to check spelling or ask someone to repeat something when you are not sure what was said
7- two L's = her last name is spelled with 2 letter L's, not one
8- what this is in regards to = why do you want to talk to him?
9- personal matter = private thing. She doesn't want to tell the receptionist
10- how can he reach you? = how can he contact you? (What is your telephone number?)
11- she repeats the phone number to make sure it's correct
12- as soon as he returns = when he comes back


You try.
Here is a different conversation. Type in words like the ones above to finish the conversation. Check your answers below.
Secretary: Good morning, ABC Company, how (1)  I help you?
Mr. Thomas: Hello, this is Bill Thomas. May I speak with Ms. Tanaka, please.
Secretary: I'm sorry, she is (2)  of the office right now. May I take a message?
Mr. Thomas: Yes please. This is Anthony Thomas.
Secretary: And how can he (3)  you, Mr. Thomas?
Mr. Thomas: At 438-3498.
Secretary: Was that (4) ?
Mr. Thomas: Yes, that's right.
Secretary: And may I tell him what this in (5)  to?
Mr. Thomas: Well, it a rather (6)  matter.
Secretary: Okay. I will give him the message as soon as he (7) .
Answers
1. may
2. out
3. reach
4. 438-3498
5. regards
6. personal
7. returns

Listening Exercise: A Thief in the Night
Vocabulary
  thief/ robber- a person who takes things
 theft- the act or the time when a robber takes something
 steal- (verb) to take something that is not yours (past tense- stole)
 bizarre- very strange, unusual
 small/medium/ large build- the size of a person's body. A very big man would have a large build.
 describe- to tell how something looks or how something is (noun- description)
 knock down- (verb) to make something fall
 refrigerator- cold place where we keep our food
Dialogue

Police Officer: I understand you had a theft tonight. Could you tell me everything that happened?
Mrs. Grady: Yes, of course. I was sleeping and I heard a loud noise in the kitchen.
Police Officer: And what did you do?
Mrs. Grady: I got up and went downstairs very quietly. Then I saw a man going out of the window.
Police Officer: Can you describe the thief?
Mrs. Grady: Sure. He had dark hair and a medium build. I couldn't see his face well, but he was wearing a blue shirt.
Police Officer: Did he steal anything?
Mrs. Grady: Well, it was very bizarre.
Police Officer: What do you mean?
Mrs. Grady: He knocked down the refrigerator and stole all the food!

Questions and Answers
1. What was Mrs. Grady doing when she heard the thief?
           
2. What was the thief doing when Mrs. Grady saw him?
         
3. What did the thief look like?
         
4. What was the thief wearing?
         
5. What did the thief knock down?
         
6. What did the thief steal?