P151-160

[151] Advanced - Darwin’s Theory Of Evolution

A: It’s been a long time since I last saw you. Where have you been?

B: The exams and plans I have to turn in in are driv- ing me crazy, I don’t even have time to sleep.

A: It’s the same for me. I’m up to my neck in work, but at least finals are coming soon and we’ll have a vacation. Where are you going now?

B: I’m going to Anthropology class and now with the year anniversary of Darwin, it’s the only thing we study. Frankly, I’m sick and tired and tired of hear- ing about this guy.

A: What? Why? How can you not like Darwin? I mean the man changed the entire perception of how things came to and his theory is backed by pretty solid evidence!

B: I don’t like him. His theory of human evolution and natural selection is full of holes. It lacks the solid evidence of which you speak of.

A: That statement puts you at odds with half of the academy. Not to mention your professors! Fur- thermore, the explanation proposed by Darwin about the origin of species and the mechanism of natural selection constitutes a grand step to- ward a coherent understanding of the world and evolutionist ideas.

B: I’m not minimizing his grand contributions, it’s just that his theory reminds of the conundrum of the chicken and the egg.

A: What are you talking about?

B: The question is, which was first? The chicken or the egg? I feel the same regarding his theory. How does the first cell of life come to be?

A: Interesting. I think that question is better suited for my philosophy class. In the meantime, how about we settle this... with a due!

[152] The Office - Cut It Out

[153] Daily Life - Homesick

[154] The Weekend - Rock Band

A: I’m forming a music band.

B: Do you already know how to play an instrument?

A: Uh... Yeah! I’ve told you a thousand times that I’m learning to play the drums. Now that I know how to play well, I would like to form a rock band.

B: Aside from yourself, who are the other members of the band?

A: We have a guy who plays guitar, and another who plays bass. Although we still haven’t found any- one to be our singer. You told me that you had some musical talent, right?

B: Yes, I’m a singer.

A: Perfect. So you can audition this weekend here at my house.

B: Great! Wait here? You don’t have enough room for the amplifiers, microphones or even your drums! By the way where do you keep them or practice?

A: Dude? What are you talking about? It’s right here! All we need is my Nintendo Wii and we are set!

[155] The Weekend - Bachelor Party

A: Hi honey! You’ll never guess what! My friends Julie and Alex are getting married!

B: Wow that’s great news! They’re a great couple!

A: I know! Anyways I just talked to Alex’s best man and he is organizing the bachelor party It’s gonna be gonna be so much fun! All the groomsmen are thinking up all the wacky and crazythings we are going to do that night.

B: You aren’t going to a strip club are you? I don’t want you getting a lap dance from some stripper with the excuse that it’s your friends party.

A: Aw come on! It’s just some innocent fun! You know how these things are! We are gonna play drinking games, get him some gag gifts and just have a good time.Nothing too over the top .

B: Well, I don’t know.

A: Come on! If one of your friends was getting mar- ried I wouldn’t mind you going to her bachelorette party!

B: Good,because my friend Wendy is getting mar- ried and I’m organizing her party!

A: What!

[156] The Weekend - Scary Story

A: Oh no! The lights went out! Honey can you light a candle?

B: Sure. What do we do now?

A: Well, we can just talk, you know, like we used to.Hmm... I know! I’ll tell you a scary story! It happened to me and my dad when I was a teenager... (fade out - fade in new s I was living with my father at the time, when he received a phone call. Hmm... I know! I’ll tell you a scary story! It hap- pened to me and my dad when I was a teenager... (fade out - fade in new scene) I was living with my father at the time, when he received a phone call.

B: Hmm... I know! I’ll tell you a scary story! It happened to me and my dad when I was a teenager... (fade out - fade in new scene) I was living with my father at the time, when he received a phone call. I was living with my father at the time, when he received a phone call. Father: (phone rings) Hello? Yes this is him. I see, I’m sorry to hear that. Ok no problem. I’ll be there shortly. (hang up the phone) Pack some clothes Tony, my great aunt is very ill and no one in the family wants to take care of her. We are going to stay at her house for a few days. Kid: Aunt? What aunt? I never knew you had a great aunt! Father: Well, the family doesn’t talk about her or get near her, for that matter. Kid: Why is that? Father: Come on, we have to go.

B: So we arrived at this old house on the outskirts of our town. There was almost no one around and the house had an eerie look to it. Once inside the house, we walked to her room and I was sur- prised to find my dad’s great aunt in a wheelchair, yelling at someone, but we were alone in the room. Father: Hi, aunt Ursula! This is my son Tony. Ursula: Why have you come? Why are you here? Don’t you know it isn’t safe? My time is near, he is coming for me. Kid: Who is coming for you? Ursula: The prince of darkness! The lord of the underworld, the tempter, the old ser- pent. Father: Come on, aunt Ursula let’s lay you down. You need to get some rest. Tony, help me lay her down.

B: That night, we slept in one of the 12 rooms of that big old mansion. The trees outside seemed to come alive and their shadows formed ghoulish shapes on my bed. All of a sudden, we heard scream- ing. Ursula: Ursula: (muffled distant screaming, kid runs towards the sounds - her volume increases) Ahhh! Get off me beast! I won’t let you take me! Ahhh! Kid: Dad! Dad! Something is attacking aunt Ursula! Ursula: Ursula: Take your claws off me! Go back to the underworld you demon! I shall be judged before you can take me! Father: The door is jammed! Stand back! (kicks the door down) Aunt Ursula! Where are you? Kid: Over here! (heavy breathing fx)

B: And as we approached her, she was ly- ing on the floor, with her hands and feet open like the Vitruvian Man, breathing heavily with bloody marks and scratches on her arms, legs and face. Remem- ber how I mentioned that she was in a wheel chair? My aunt had been para- lyzed from the neck down for just over a year. After this incident, strange things would happen in the house and my aunt would yell and scream, according to her, warding off the evil that had come to get her. As the days passed, she became very weak and eventually was unable to talk. My dad had to work during the day, so I was left to care for her. When she lost her voice and laid on her death bed, I would hear her breathe, in and out. Ursula:: (Breathing wheezing fx spaced out be- tween inhale and exhale)

[157] The Weekend - Trick Or Treat

A: Trick - or -treat

B: Tom, aren’t you a littletoo old to be trick-or - treat- ing?

A: What are you talking about? Where is your Hal- loweenspirit? Didn’t you ever dress up in a cos- tume and go around the neighborhood trick-or- treatingwith your friends?

B: Of course I did, but when I was ten! Trick -or- treatingis for kids, plus, I ’msure people will think you’re a kidnapper or something, running around with kids NCP at night.

A: Whatever, I’mgoing next doorI heard Mrs. Robin- son is giving out big bags of M&Ms!

[158] Global View - All Saints Day

C: The Day of the Dead has arrived All Soul’s Dayand All Saint’s Day!

A: Your neighbor is crazy. Why is he screaming that?

B: Because today is the first of November the Day of the Dead

A: Oh, that’s right.

B: This is a very special day among many cultures around the world especially in Latin America

A: Seriously? I thought it was just like any other day, except for the fact that people visit the cemetery and remember their loved ones.

B: Well, that’s just part of it People across the world celebrate in different waysIn Mexcio for example it’s common to see people building private altars honoring the deceasedusing sugar skulls, prepar- ing the favorite foods and beverages of the de- parted and visiting graves with these as gifts. In the Philippines , the tombs are cleaned or re- painted, candles are lit and flowers are offered Entire families camp out in cemeteries .and some- times spend a night or two near their relatives’ tombs!

A: Whoa! That’sscary! I don’t know if I could do that!

B: Why? We should fear the living, not the dead .

[159] Daily Life - Getting Flowers

A: Hello sir, how may I help you?

B: I would like to buy some flowers, please. Some- thing really nice.

A: I see, may I ask whatthe occasion is?

B: It’s not really an occasion, it’s more like I’m sorry.

A: Very well. This arrangement here is very popu- lar among regretful husb ands and boyfriends. It has a dozenlong stem red roses with a couple of sunflowers and a single orchid that stands out. It includes a small teddy bear to achievethe effect of immediate forgiveness.

B: I think I’m gonna need more than just a dozen red roses and a bear. What else do you recommend?

A: Mmm, well this is our ” I’m sorry I cheated on you” package. Two dozen red roses lined with tulips, carnati ons and lilies. The fragrance and beauty of this flower arrangement is sure to make her for- give you.

B: I don’t think that’s gonna cut it. I need something bigger and better!

A: I’m sorry sir but, what exactly did you do?

B: Well, I may have accidentally insinuated that she is getting chubbier .

A: Get out of my store you jerk!

[160] Global View - Health Insurance

A: Hey honey, how was your day?

B: It was alright. I ran into Billand we got totalking for a whileHe’s in a bit of a jam.

A: Why? What happened?

B: Well, his son had an accident and Billdoesn’t have health insurance. This really got me thinking, and I wondered if we shouldn’t look into a couple of different HMO’s.

A: Yeah, you’re right. We aren’t getting any younger and our kids are getting older.

B: Exactly! I searched onthe web and found a couple of HMO’s with low co pays and good coverage. The deductibles are low, too.

A: Sounds good, although, do you think we can qual- ify for insurance? Those insurance companies are real pirates when it comes to money.

B: Well, we don’t have any pre existing illnesses or conditions, so we should be fine.

A: I wish our company or country provided us with healthcare.

B: Not in a million years!

P161-170

[161] Daily Life - Computer Games

A: MarkWhere have you been? I’ve been calling you all morning.

B: I’ve been playing computer games.

A: What? So you blew me off yesterday and today over a stupid video game? What game is so im- portant that you have no time for me anymore? What are you playing?

B: It’s called Counter Strike It’s a first person shooter game. It’s awesome. It’s a multi player game where you can go online and compete against players from all over the world.

A: You’ve been wasting your time on this? I can’t believe it! It doesn’t even look fun or challenging!

B: My laptop is on my bed. If you think it’s so easy then get onlineand try to beat me.

A: Fine!

B: Dammit! Howare youkilling me with a single shot? It’s not fair! I don’t want to play anymore! Let’s go get something to eat.

A: Can you bring me something? I am totally hooked on this game!

[162] Global View - Veteran’s Day

A: Do you have any plans for Veteran’s Day

B: You mean Armistice Day

A: Well, as you know, on November 11th allies signed a peace treaty with the Germans, also known astheArmistice Treaty This marked the end of WWI and many countries around the world commemorate this date under names such as ” day. In Poland it’s their independence day! There’s a lot going on around the world on this day.

B: Wow, I didn’t know! Probably because I flunked history in school.

[163] Global View - Social Security

A: Well that was an interesting documentary!

B: For sure! I didn’t really understand some ofthe technical jargon they used inthe film when they talked about social security in the US.

A: Like what?

B: Well, they mentioned how people put away money in something called a 401K?

A: Yeah, I know it sounds weird, but a 401k is a type of retirement plan that allows employees to save and invest for their own retirement Through a you can authorize your employer to deduct a certain amount of money from your paycheck and invest it inthe plan Everyone tries to contribute as much as possible so that when you retire, you can rest peacefully on your nest egg.

B: That’s interesting and logical I guess. In my coun- try, we also have to contribute to a government- run retirement fund, but most people don’t really trust itso they just invest in properties or things like that.

A: That seems a bit unstable don’t you think?

B: Yeah, but corrupt governments inthe past have created distrust among banks and financial insti- tutions, so now people prefer to have money hid- den in a jar or a piggy bank.

A: I’ve been thinking of doing that lately! I don’t want some banker to run off with my money!

[164] Daily Life - Apology Letter

A: Dear Mary, I come here today, in this way, be- cause I need to apologize to you. I failed you. Although I did not lie to you in words, I lied to you with faces that did not belong to me. I never meant to ruin the friendship that meant the world to me. You mean the world to me and now I come to you asking for forgiveness. If in your heart you find you can’t, then I will understand and learn from this experience.

A: You came into my life at a time when I needed you the most. We talked about so many things that I started to realize my heart and my soul could ac- tually feel something other than hurt. You placed comfort where there was fear, confidence where there was doubt, a shoulder where tears could fall and completeness where there was emptiness. I wanted to hold onto to this so badly that I did whatever it took for you to notice. What I didn’t realize was that I could lose my entire being, all of who I was and all that I had placed in you.

A: I wanted to be the one who would be there when you needed to talk. I wanted to be the comfort for your soul when the world was too much to handle. I wanted to be strong for you when everything else seemed impossible. I wanted to love you in only the way you deserved to be loved, never realizing that I was destroying myself and you. Somehow I needed you to be a part of my life. The only prob- lem was that I was willing to jeopardize everything to get that done.

A: All the things that I told you about how I felt and how you make me feel were true. Nothing else mattered to me except hearing the laughter in your voice when you were happy. You made my days easy to get through and my nights peace- ful; you helped me look forward to another day. Even though distance separated us, just being was enough.

A: I’m sorry for hurting you and if I had to do all over again I would have been 100% with you. Forgive me please,

[165] Daily Life - Asking For A Loan

B: Hello Sir may I help you?

A: Yes. I would like some information for requesting a loan.

B: Very well, here arethe general termsof our loan policies. We pride ourselves in having the lowest interest rate inthe country for personal loans.

A: I see. So let me get this straight. If I borrow let’s say, ten thousand dollars, how much will I have to pay each month?

B: It depends on how long you take to pay it back. If we lend you ten thousand dollars at an annual interest rate of ten percent for forty eight months, you would have to pay each month a portion ofthe loan which is called the principal and another small portion ofthe annual interest rate. This of course is considering that you don’t default on a payment!

A: It sounds good but, there is just one problem. I have a terrible credit score.

B: That is a very serious problem you see, the bank must assess your personal information, past loans, assets and any other relevant information such as your credit scorein order to approve your loan.

A: You know what? I don’t really need the money. Thanks anyways!

[166] Daily Life - Dr. Botox

A: What are you doing?

B: Look at me. I look so old! I look as if I were thirty.

A: Come on! Stop being so vain. You look great! You are beautiful!

B: Yes, I am, but I think it’s time for some plastic surgery I’m tired of these wrinkles and sagging skin. See?

A: I don’t see any wrinkles or sagging skin! You are stop beings ridiculous. Besides, I think that peo- ple who get Botox, have facelifts, or tummy tucks look weird. It doesn’t look natural.

B: Whatever, I think I’m gonna get liposuction and a nose joband some breast implantsas well.

A: I think you need to get brain surgery. I honestly don’t think you need cosmetic surgeryYou look amazing.

B: I thought you were my friend and would support me on this! I just want to feel better about myself and feel more attractive.

A: You don’t need plastic surgeryto do that. You are fine the way you are and you have guys drooling all over you! Plus, plastic surgeryhurts!

B: Really?

A: Yeah! When I got my nose job I was black and blue for a week!

[167] Daily Life - Learning How To Drive

A: Ok! I’m ready for my driving lesson! Should I start the car?

B: Hold on there Fittipaldi, first let’s go over things one more time. Now before you even think of starting the car, make sure your seat is at a com- fortable position and you can grip the steering wheelfirmly. Next check your rear view mirrorsto make sure you can see properly.

A: We have been through this a million times! Let’s get going already! I’m ready!

B: Fine start the car. now gently step onthe clutch and shift to 1st gear. Good, now accelerate gen- tly and let go ofthe clutch as u do it. There we gogood!

A: I’m doing it! I’m driving! This is awesome! Le’ts turn some music on!

B: Keep your eyes on the road! No music! We are coming up to a red light, step on the brakes. What are you doing? I said the brakes! Look out for those people! Get off the sidewalk!

A: Get out of my way! This is just like playing video games!

B: It’s the police! Pull over!

A: They’ll never take me alive!

[168] The Weekend - Cooking A Thanksgiving Dinner

[169] The Weekend - Roller Coaster

A: I’m so excited! We are finally here! Six Flags Magic Mountain! This isthe best amusement park inthe world!

B: Alright settle down now, you’re gonna give your- self a heart attack.

C: I can’t believe they charged us dollars each. It seems like a rip offdon’t you think? It’s not like I’m gonna get on these rides.

A: Whoa... Viper! That’s the world’s highest and fastest roller coaster! You go at more than miles per hour! I wanna go onthat one! Can I mom please? Can I ?

B: Chris I’m not sure you should get on that it seems a bit too much for you and we just had breakfast minutes ago. I don’t think it’s a good idea.

A: Aww come on mom! I can handle it. I promise I wont ask for anything else! Besides, it’s not like I’m gonna throw upor anything...

C: Let him go Carol, he’ll be fine.

A: Alright! Yeah! This is amazing! See how high up we’re going? Whoa... mmmf mmfff barf.

[170] Daily Life - Wedding Doubts

A: Man, I’m freaking out! You gotta help me!

B: Whoa whoa take it easy, relax. Geez, you’re sweating like a pig! What’s going on?

A: I can’t go through with this! I just can’t! I’m not ready for marriage! What was I thinking? I’m only thirty five years old! I’ve got my entire life ahead of me, adventures waiting! I can’t settle down yet!

B: What are you talking about? It wasn’t more than a month ago that you were rambling on about how you are tired of living the life of a bachelor and how you envy your friends that have a family!

A: I know I know!

B: Let’s think this through. First of all, you cannot leave Amy atthe altar. Not only will she be humil- iated and kill you, but she is the woman that you love andthe woman of your dreams! Why would you want to end that or jeopardize it like this? Sec- ond of all, you are just getting cold feet. You know deep down inside that you want to marry her, so cut the crap and do it!

B: You’re right. I’m being crazy! Ok, I’m ready, lets do this!

A: Great! Phew! That was a close one ! You had me going there for a minute I thought I was gonna have to slap some sense intoyou

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[171] The Weekend - Buying a Camera

A: Hello, ma’am, can I help you find something?

B: Yes, actually I’m looking to buy a camera.

A: We’ve got a wide selection do you know if you’d like a point-and-shoot, or something a lit- tle fancier? Are you shopping for yourself or for someone else?

B: Actually I’m buying a camera for my husband.

A: Ah, well then I’d recommend a nice entry-level digital SLR.

B: Yeah? Can I take a look at the SLRs you carry?

A: Sure thing, follow me. This here is the.

B: The Canon Eos. Yeah it’s ok, but I’m looking for something that performs better in low light, has a better display panel, and longer battery life.

A: Oh, ah, umthe Nikon D60 is a nice option.

B: Yeah, but what kit lens does this camera come with? I don’t want some bulky telephoto lens.

A: Oh, well this one has the, uh.

B: Looks to me like an 18-55mm lens. pretty stan- dard, that will do. Not like my husband will be stalking celebrities or anything!

A: So, ahem, can I interest you in any acc...

B: Accessories? Do you carry polarizing filters?

A: Polarizing filter um we should! I’m sorry, ma’am. looks like we’re sold out.

B: No you’re not! There are some right here!

A: Oh, well, would you look at that! Po-la-ri-zing fil- ters.

B: Thanks for your help, Ralph!

A: No problem, ma’am.

[172] Daily Life - Dry Cleaners

A: Thank god you are open! I have an emergency!

B: Hello Mr. Henderson what can I do for you?

A: I need this dress and this suit dry cleaned ASAP!

B: OK, I can have it ready by the end ofthe week.

A: No you don’t understand, I need this tomorrow morning! I accidentally spilled beer all over my wife’s dress and we have a wedding to attend to- morrow! She’s gonna kill me!

B: Ok, I can have it ready tomorrow afternoon, but this suit is also very stained. I can’t guarantee we can remove it completely.

A: Fine! Can you also iron and starch this shirt?

B: Certainly.

A: Great! This is our secret! If you see my wife, say nothing to her about this!

[173] The Office - Preparing a Budget

A: Welcome Mr and Mrs Carnwell, please take a seat.

B: Thank you.

A: So I understand that your family spending has sky rocketed and you want to start budgeting.

C: Yes thats correct. Frankly speaking our house- hold income is relatively high and we have never had any money problems, but I think this isthe main reason as to why our spending has gone out of control.

B: We have two kids and with allowances, paying their credit cards, ours and not to mention our mortgage and car payments. With the recent eco- nomic downturn, my husband’s business has suf- fered and now we need some advice as to how we can prepare a family budget.

A: I see. Well you have come tothe right place. First what we need to do, is determine your cash flow. Knowing how much money is coming in will help us allocate spending to different categories such as mortgage, education, groceries, etc.

B: Yes that makes sense.

A: Secondly, I need you to bring all of your receipts forthe last two to three months. That way, we can determine what your average expenditures are and see which category you are spending money onthe most. Usually, your fixed costs are higher and we cant do much about that, but we can usu- ally trim your variable costs such as entertainment or clothing.

C: Great! We will do that then! Now how about we treat you to a nice dinner?

A: That’s another thing. If you really want to stop spending so much money, throw away at least half of your credit cards!

[174] The Weekend - Getting a manicure

A: Honey I’ll be right back!

B: Where are you going?

A: I told you already! I’m going to. get my nails done.

B: Again? You just went last week! You spend more time atthe nail salon than you do here at home! Honestly, why do you need a manicure ev- ery week?

A: Well, first of all, I like to pamper myself, and my nails look great. You should come with me!

B: Why? I don’t want to have nail polish or anything like that!

A: They don’t only paint my nails! The manicurist will remove my cuticles, file my nails, and apply at least nails coats of nail polish!

B: Yeah, sounds like something I should definitely do.

[175] Global View - New Years Resolution

A: Did you read this? It says that the number one new years resolution make is to spend more time with friends and family.

B: Why would that be funny?

A: Well, think about it. We are a society that is al- ways on the go, not because we have to, but be- cause we want to.

B: Why?

A: We work hard and spend less time at home be- cause we are trying to provide for our family with goods and services that are usually unnecessary.

B: I don’t agree, but anyways, I think you should start thinking of a new year’s resolution yourself.

A: What’s the point? We always make a new year’s resolution and by February we will have forgotten about it. It’s pointless.

B: Well then maybe you should resolve to sticking to your goals and objectives.

A: What about you? Your gym bag is gathering dust and you still have brand new running shoes that are yet to be jogged in.

B: Well, I would go if you kept your promise of going tothe gym with me everyday!

A: Yeah yeah whatever.

[176] Daily Life - Heating

A: It’s freezing in here! Can I turn up the heat?

B: Don’t touch that thermostat! You don’t paythe bills around here!

A: Dad! Are you serious? What’s the point of having central heating if we can’t use it! Look, I can see my breath!

B: Put on a sweater! I’m not gonna let you run up my heating bill just because it’s a bit chilly.

A: Dad! I’m gonna catch a cold!

B: When I was your age, my parents didn’t have central heating like you do! We had a furnace inthe center ofthe living room and that was it. We used it to cook, heat the house and even dry our clothes! We never caught a cold. You should be grateful!

[177] The Weekend - Decorating a Christmas Tree

[178] Daily Life - Finding the perfect present

A: Bill. Bill! You gotta help me!

B: What’s wrong? Slow down or you are gonna give yourself a heart attack.

A: Tomorrow is Christmas and I haven’t bought my mom anything! I’m such a bad son!

B: Take it easy! Let’s go tothe mall, window shop a little and see if there is anything she might like.

A: That’s just it! I don’t know what to get her! Last year I got her a ring that was two sizes too big and a pair of shoes five sizes too small! I suck at getting presents for people.

B: That’s where you’re making a big mistake! You can’t just guess peoples’ likes or sizes! Especially with clothes or jewelry. On top of that, I think that you should get your mom something that shows how much you love her. Atthe same time you should show her that you took the time and effort tolook for something that she would really like!

A: Yeah you’re right. When it comes down to it, I can be pretty tacky.

B: Yeah tell me about it. I know! Your mom is trying to learn Spanish right? Why don’t you get her a gift certificate for this great website I saw called SpanishPod.

A: Now that’s a great idea!

[179] Intermediate - Silent Night

A: Silent night, holy night

A: All is calm, all is bright

A: Round yon Virgin Mother and Child

A: Holy Infant so tender and mild

A: Sleep in heavenly peace

A: Sleep in heavenly peace

A: Silent night, holy night

A: Shepherds quake at the sight

A: Glories stream from heaven afar

A: Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!

A: Christ, the Saviour is born

A: Christ, the Saviour is born

A: Silent night, holy night

A: Son of God, love’s pure light

A: Radiant beams from Thy holy face

A: With the dawn of redeeming grace

A: Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth

A: Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth

[180] Elementary - Jingle Bells

A: Dashing through the snow

A: In a one horse open sleigh

A: O’er the fields we go

A: Laughing allthe way

A: Bells on bob tails ring

A: Making spirits bright

A: What fun it is to laugh and sing

A: A sleighing song tonight

A: Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells

A: Jingle all the way

A: Oh, what fun it is to ride

A: In a one horse open sleigh

A: jingle bells, jingle bells

A: Jingle all the way

A: Oh, what fun it is to ride

A: In a one horse open sleigh

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[181] Daily Life - Christmas Day

A: Dad, dad, dad! Wake up! It’s Christmas!

B: Timmy. It’s too early for this. Look, it’s six in the morning! Go back to bed!

A: No way! Santa already came and left all our presents! Can we go open them? Please! Please!

C: Of course we can honey. Bill, come on, get dressed.

B: Fine! Not like Santa brought me any gifts!

C: Bill! Honestly, you can be such a grouch some- times.

A: Look at all these presents under the Christmas tree! Awesome!

B: Alright Timmy, knock yourself out. We should get ready and head to the market to buy everything for the Christmas dinner tonight.

C: Yeah you’re right. It’s the first time we are hosting Christmas dinner at our house so everything has to be perfect.

B: I got the list right here. Ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, ingredients for the gravy and of course, yams!

C: My dad offered to bring the eggnog so we should be set!

[182] Global View - Boxing Day

A: What do you think of this one?

B: Eh, so so.

A: And this one? Too flashy?

B: Nah, not too flashy.

A: Uhg! And this sweater from my aunt? Isn’t it hideous?

B: I guess.

A: Are you even listening? I’m trying to have a con- versation with you.

B: And I’m trying to watch the game, but you’re yap- ping on about your new clothes!

A: Well I have to decide which gifts to keep and which to exchange for better ones when I go to the Boxing Day sales this afternoon!

B: Well could you do me the favor of making this quick? It’s the third quarter and you’ve been blab- bering on since the first!

A: Oh, your precious game. You watch the same game every year, and each year your beloved hometown team loses by at least three goals!

B: Oh no you didn’t. You didn’t just insult the Sals- bury Seals, did you? Why don’t you just. just go and return all of those stupid clothes and not come back until the sales are over?

A: I might just! Enjoy your stupid game!

B: And Merry Christmas!

A: Merry Christmas!

[183] Daily Life - Winter Clothes

A: Bye, mom!

B: Wait, Jimmy, it’s cold outside. Put a hat on!

A: Ok. Bye!

B: No, wait, you will be too cold without mittens.

A: Alright. See ya!

B: Hold on, with that wind, you’re going to catch a cold. Wear this scarf.

A: Ok, see you after school...

B: Oh... and ear muffs! Put these on... here we go.

A: Mom?

B: Yes, honey...

A: I... I can’t breathe.

[184] Daily Life - Fresh Start

A: Now that it’s the new year, I’ve decided to turn over a new leaf.

B: Yeah? You finally decided to wipe the slate clean?

A: You got it! I have a new job, I’m living in a new city, with new friends! This is my opportunity to make some small changes in the way I live my life.

B: So what are you going to do? Take up an art class or something?

A: Well, first of all, I’ve decided to stop smoking. It’s not that I’m pinching pennies or anything, it’s just that I’ve been smoking since I was sixteen, and I think it’s time to stop.

B: I’m with you on that one. Anything else you’re planning on doing?

A: One last thing, I’ve decided to come out of the closet.

B: It’s about time!

[185] The Weekend - Farm Animals

A: Isn’t this great? I always wanted to own a farm, live out in the country, grow my own food!

B: This is very beautiful. Though I have to confess, I don’t know the first thing about farming!

A: That’s fine! Don’t worry about it!

B: What was that?

A: Relax, it was just a goat!

B: And that?

A: It’s just the cows that are grazing over there. We can milk them later.

B: What was that?

A: Honey, seriously, It’s just a sheep. Relax!

A: Relax, that was just the horses and donkeys that are in the stable .

B: You know what? I don’t think I can hack it here out in the countryside. I’m going back to the city!

[186] The Office - Business Plan

A: I’ve had it! I’m done working for a company that is taking me nowhere!

B: So what are you gonna do? Just quit?

A: That’s exactly what I am going to do! I’ve decided to create my own company! I’m going to write up a business plan, get some investors and start working for myself!

B: Have you ever written up a business plan before?

A: Well, it can’t be that hard! I mean, all you have to do is explain your business, how you are going to do things and that’s it, right?

B: You couldn’t be more wrong! A well written business plan will include an executive summary which highlights the idea of the business in two pages or less. Then you need to describe your company with information such as what type of legal structure it has, history, etc.

A: Well that seems easy enough.

B: Wait, there’s more! Then you need to introduce and describe your goods or services. What they are and how they are different from competitors’? Then comes the hard part, a market analysis. You need to investigate and analyze hundreds of vari- ables! You need to take into consideration so- cioeconomic factors from GDP per capita to how many children on average the population has! All this information is useful so that you can move on to your strategy and implementation stage, where you will describe in detail how you will actually ex- ecute your idea.

A: Geez. Is that all?

B: Almost, the most important piece of information for your investors will be the financial analysis. Here you will calculate and estimate sales, cash flow and profits. After all, people will want to know when they will begin to see a return on their in- vestment!

A: Umm. I think I’ll just stick to my old job and save myself all the hassle of trying to start up a busi- ness!

[187] Daily Life - Going On A Diet

A: Oh man! I’ve been starving myself for days now and I haven’t lost an ounce!

B: Are you trying to lose weight?

A: Yeah, my friend is getting married next month and I’m supposed to be a bridesmaid. I have to fit into my dress and look nice for her wedding, but I haven’t lost any weight! Look at these love han- dles.

B: You don’t have to starve yourself to lose weight. I think that’s where you’re going wrong.

A: Why? If I eat less, then my body will start eating away at my fat reserves right?

B: Not really. You should try to not eat foods high in calories, salts or saturated fats. Stay away from oily food and artificial flavors.

A: So you are saying that I should eat, but I should just watch what I eat?

B: Yes! You can also try to reduce your intake of car- bohydrates and foods that are high in cholesterol. You can have steamed veggies or increase your protein intake found in chicken or fish.

A: If I do all this do you think I can lose twenty pounds in four weeks?

B: Don’t count on it.

[188] The Office - Asking For A Raise

A: Excuse me sir, may I talk to you?

B: Bill! Sure, come on in. What can I do for you?

A: Well sir, as you know, I have been an employee of this prestigious firm for over ten years.

B: Yes.

A: I won’t beat around the bush. Sir, I would like a raise. I currently have three companies after me and so I decided to talk to you first.

B: A raise? Son, I would love to give you a raise, but this is just not the right time.

A: I understand your position, and I know that the current economic downturn has had a negative impact on sales, but you must also take into con- sideration my hard work, pro-activeness and loy- alty to this company for over a decade.

B: Taking into account these factors, and consider- ing I don’t want to start a brain drain, I’m willing to offer you a ten percent raise and an extra five days of vacation time. How does that sound?

A: Great! It’s a deal! Thank you, sir!

B: Before you go, just out of curiosity, what compa- nies were after you?

A: Oh, the electric company, gas company and water company!

[189] Daily Life - Buying A New Mobile Phone

A: Hello sir, may I help you?

B: Yeah, I accidentally dropped my phone in the toi- let.

A: I see. Well, you have come to the right place. We have over one hundred models of more than twenty leading mobile phone manufacturers.

B: Sounds good. I don’t want it to be too expensive, maybe something mid-range.

A: We have this new HTC smart phone. It comes with the Android OS so you can download appli- cations. It also has a built-in camera, mp3 player and touch screen. It works on the 3G network so you have fast access to the internet wherever you are.

B: What about Wi-fi?

A: Of course! You can access the internet from any hotspot as well as from home.

B: One last thing. Is it waterproof?

[190] The Weekend - Family Barbecue

A: Is everything ready for the big family barbecue to- morrow?

B: Yep. The steaks and chicken are marinated and I also bought hamburger buns.

A: We should also cook a couple dozen hot dogs and kebabs.

B: Yeah, good idea. We can put some lawn furni- ture outside next to the grill. I also set up the tent outside so we can hide from the sun if it gets too hot.

A: Great! I asked Grace to bring cups and servi- ettes as she is also bringing two big coolers for the beers.

B: This is gonna be a great barbecue!

P191-200

[191] Global View - Daylight Savings Time

A: Did you set your clock forward for daylight savings time?

B: What? Why do we have to do that?

A: Well, at the start of the spring we usually have more daylight in the mornings and less in the afternoon. This is basically due to our position on the planet and the rotation of the earth. In any case, to take better advantage of the daylight available, we compensate by moving our clocks forward one hour.

B: I see. That’s convenient! I never understood things like this, such as GMT. I never know what time zone we are in or when to change my clock!

A: That just stands for Greenwich Mean Time. Here in California, we are in Pacific Standard Time, that is eight time zones west of Greenwich. Re- member when we were in Beijing? Well, then we were in China Standard Time, and that’s eight time zones east of Greenwich!

B: That’s why it was so weird traveling from Beijing to LA! Because of the huge time difference, even though we left Beijing at noon and flew for more than eight hours, we still arrived in LA the same day at noon! It’s like we went back in time!

[192] Global View - Natural Disasters

[193] Daily Life - Building Your Dream Home

A: Mr. and Mrs. Robinson! Let’s get straight to it. You have saved up your money for years and are now ready to build your dream home. What did you have in mind?

B: A suburban bungalow straight out of the sixties! A perfect lawn with minimal landscaping. A brick patio in the backyard with an old-fashioned grill, quaint lawn furniture, and a swimming pool. A two-car carport, pastel siding and a gable roof. Completed with white shutters and a white picket fence !

C: Uh, honey?

B: In the living room we would have moss-green rugs and a fireplace with a stone mantle and wood paneling on the walls. In the kitchen, the cup- boards would be a pale yellow and we would have a turquoise metal oven and vinyl flooring -

C: Umm, sweetie, but I was thinking of a more mod- ern style house. An open concept house, all glass, wood, metal, and concrete.

B: But sweetums, there is always a lot of wasted space in those kinds of homes. Besides, it’s just a fad. It doesn’t have the homey feeling the old homes do.

C: Sweetie-pie it’s not a lot of wasted space. It is re- laxing and the house would be eco-friendly with an in-floor heating system and designed to retain the heat of the sun in the winter and keep the house cool in the summer. We would have solar panels on the roof -

B: Do you know how much those things cost?

C: What about your vintage furniture, dearest? And instead of a lawn, which is also a lot of wasted space and would require environmentally harm- ful pesticides, we would have a fish pond in the backyard and a garden that would cover the whole yard so we could grow our own food!

B: But buttercup, I thought you always said that you loved visiting your grandmother’s house!

C: And I thought you, Mr. Scientist, were all up on saving the planet with your technological ad- vancements!

A: Umm well I am just going to go get some coffee while you two keep discussing.

[194] The Weekend - Stir Fry

A: Oh, man. I had the best supper last night. My wife made a stir fry and it was amazing!

B: I love stir fry Crispy bite-sized vegetables covered in a mixture of soy sauce and oyster sauce. Wilted greens and fresh bean sprouts. Throw in some onion and garlic and ginger! Mmm! Mmm! It’s almost lunchtime. I would die for a plate of stir fry right now!

A: Well, you can keep the vegetables, I’ll take the meat. The stir fry my wife made was really hearty, with chunks of beef and slivers of bell peppers and onion...

B: What? You call that a stir fry? More meat than vegetables? That’s the worst insult you could throw at a Chinese stir fry What a disgrace to the wok she fried it in! What you had is equivalent to a fajita without the wrap! Silly Americans!

[195] Global View - Job Hunting

A: Woo hoo! This just might be the start of the rest of my life!

B: What happened?

A: I’m in the market for a job! I went on a website with hundreds of job listings in the area and browsed through them until I got the names of a few em- ployers I would like to work for. I have the resume I wrote for English class last month and a cover letter will be a piece of cake to write. I’ve even done my research and found the names of the managers so I can address the letters personally. And you know I can be charming in interviews. Goodbye my penniless days! Hello salary and a career!

B: Ben, we’re fifteen. What kind of job are you look- ing for?

A: Oh, just for a position as a gas station attendant. You know, starting at a simple lowly job, just like all the greats before they made it big in the world.

B: Uh-huh.

A: But I’m just in it for the money, right? How else am I going to be able to afford to keep taking An- gela to the movies? Besides, I love the smell of gasoline, don’t you?

[196] Daily Life - Going To The Tailor

A: Welcome to Bill’s Fabric World. What can I do for you today?

B: I was wondering if you guys also tailor clothes?

A: Sure we do! We have the best tailors in the coun- try! What is it that you need exactly?

B: Well, I’m looking to get a custom-made suit.

A: Excellent! We have the finest cashmeres at af- fordable prices. How about we get you mea- sured? Let’s start off by measuring the width of your shoulders. Now, let’s measure the length of your arms and this bit around your neck here.

B: Can you make sure you leave a little extra space in the collar? My neck gets easily irritated.

A: No problem! Now for your pants, let me just mea- sure your waist and the inseam.

B: You might also want to leave a little extra room in the waist area. I tend to gain a few pounds over the holidays.

A: OK. Now you can pick your fabric and pattern de- sign. Please follow me.

[197] Global View - Calling 911

A: Alright class, now that we’re all dressed up let’s see what professions you chose. Ah, I see a fire- man, a police officer, a medic, and a lifeguard! Can anyone tell me what these people have in common?

B: They save people from bad things?

A: That’s right! Now class, if something bad hap- pened and you had to get help, do you know what phone number you would call?

C: 911!

A: Yes, you would pick up the phone and dial 911. What are some emergency situations where you would need to dial 911?

B: If my grandpa has a heart attack!

C: If there is an accident!

B: If a robber breaks into the house!

C: If the fire alarm goes off!

B: Pff! I wouldn’t call 911 if the fire alarm went off in my house. The only time that ever happens is when we’re having spaghetti for supper, and Mom burns the garlic bread, as usual.

[198] Daily Life - Applying CPR

A: Hello everyone and welcome to our CPR for be- ginners course. First of all, does anyone know what CPR stands for?

B: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation!

A: That’s right! We apply CPR in the case of cardiac arrest or pulmonary arrest.

B: What does that mean?

A: Well, basically if your heart stops pumping blood, or your lungs stop pumping air, then we need to get them going again! That’s when we have to apply this procedure. Let’s begin! I need a volun- teer.

B: Me! Me!

A: Alright, come here and lay flat on your back. Let’s suppose this young woman has stopped breath- ing. We must lift the person’s chin so that we clear a pathway for air to get into the lungs. Then we place our mouth over the other person’s mouth and blow air two or three times, like this.

B: Wait, what are you doing? I’m a married woman! You can’t just try to kiss me like this!

A: Ma’ am I’m not trying to kiss you! I am trying to demonstrate how to apply CPR in the case of an emergency.

B: Well, ok. But no French kissing!

A: As I was saying, we blow air through the mouth in this manner. Once this is done, we must try to get the heart going again. To do this, we place our hands over the person’s chest, and press down firmly two or three times.

B: Wait, what are you doing! You can’t just kiss me then go for second base!

[199] Global View - Learning About First Aid

A: Hey Joe! Where have you been these past few days?

B: I’ve been busy with a first aid course that I started about a week ago at the Red Cross.

A: Cool! I’ve always wanted to do something like that! Have you learned anything useful?

B: For sure! I mean we’ve learned how to apply pres- sure to stop bleeding, how to check for a pulse, and even how to apply CPR!

A: Have you treated any real emergencies?

B: Well, they took us along with some paramedics. There was this guy who fell off his motorcycle and suffered a concussion as well as a couple of com- pound fractures. His wounds were pretty serious so they had to rush him to the hospital. It was intense!

A: I can imagine! I tend to faint when I see blood, so I think I won’t be taking up a course like that anytime soon!

[200] Daily Life - Junk Food

A: I’m hungry, let’s grab a bite to eat.

B: Sure! How about we go home and prepare a cou- ple of sandwiches?

A: Nah! Let’s go get a burger and fries.

B: All you ever do is have unhealthy fast food Pizza, fries, burgers and hot dogs! You have to start eat- ing better!

A: What are you talking about? I have salads some- times.

B: Yeah right! I’m serious! You should also cut down on your sugar intake as well. You drink carbon- ated drinks that are high in fructose syrup! It’s really not healthy!

A: Fine! I’ll start drinking and having home cooked meals that are low in fat. Are you happy now?

B: It’s a start, but I’ll be happy when I see you stick to your promise!