DIALOGS FOR EVERYDAY USE
UNIT ONE
FORMAL GREETINGS AND FAREWELLS.
DIALOG 1
Paul: Hello. How are you?
Don: Fine, thank you. How are you?
Paul: Fine thanks. Oh, excuse me- here’s my bus. Good –by.
Don: Goodbye.
LANGUAGES NOTES.
Hello: Good morning or good afternoon might also be used.
Thanks: is slightly less formal than thank you.
DIALOG 2
Dick: Hi! How are you?
Helen: Fine, thanks-and you?
Dick: Just fine. Where are you going?
Helen: To the library.
Dick: O.K I’ll see you later. So long.
Helen: So long.
LANGUAGES NOTES.
Hi is an informal equivalent of hello.
O.K. is less formal equivalent of all right.
The common saying “I’ll see you later” is often shortened to “see you later.”
So long is an informal equivalent of goodbye.
PERSONAL INFORMATION.
Name: My name is………
Nationality: I am ……………..
Domicile: I live in ………….
My address is…..
My telephone number is …
Occupation: I am a/ a……
Study details: I study English at……
I have studied English for….
Months/terms/ years.
I want to learn English for:
My job/ my studies/ traveling/ pleasure and interest.
Interests: I like ………in my spare time.
EXERCISES.
1. Work in pairs. Ask your partner.
What’s your name?
What nationality are you?
How old are you?
Where do you come from?
Where do you live?
What do you do?
Where do you work or study?
When/where were you born?
2. WORK IN GROUPS.TALK ABOUT YOUR PARTNER.
His/her name is ….
He/she’s…….
He /she comes from….
He/she’s a /a….
He/she: -works in a …
-studies at…..
3. FILL IN THE DIALOG.
Rod Nelson is in the buffet bar at Paddington Station in London. He is waiting for the train to Bristol. He looks for somewhere to sit down.
Rod: Excuse me, is this seat free?
Zlatko:
Rod: You are not English, are you?
Zlatko:
Rod: Where do you come from in Yugoslavia?
Zlatko:
Rod: Are you here for the holiday?
Zlatko: ………
Rod: My name’s Rod, by the way. What’s yours?
Zlatko:
Rod: Would you like another coffee?
Zlatko:
Rod: My train leaves in five minutes. I must go. Nice meeting you. Bye
Use these responses to fill in the dialog:
From Dubrovnik.
Goodbye.
Mine’s Zlatko, Zlatko Tiric.
Yes, it is.
No, I ‘m not. I’m Yugoslavian.
No, thanks.
No, I am not. I study in London.
HOME: a flat, a house, a hostel, a cottage.
LOCATION: in large town, in a city, in suburb, in a small town, in a village, in the country.
GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION: NORTH - WEST - EAST - SOUTH
TEXT
Rod Nelson is a young electrical engineer from Ottawa in Canada. He is working in England for a company called Weston Aeronautics. The company makes electrical components. It is situated in Bristol, a large city in the south west of England.
Rod works with Jack Cooper, the production manager at Weston. Rod likes Jack and enjoys his job. He also likes England because it is so different from Canada. He lives in a hostel in Bristol but he wants to rent a flat of his own.
He started his job at Weston in September and a few weeks later he went to dinner at the Cooper’s house. There he met Barbara, Barbara is Jack and Peggy Cooper’s twenty- four year old daughter, and she is the manageress of a shoe shop in the center of Bristol. Rod doesn’t know many people in Bristol so he enjoyed meeting her.
QUESTIONS.
Who is Rod Nelson? He is a young ………
Where does he come from? From……..
What does Weston Aeronautics make? It makes…..
Where is it situated? In ….. a large ….in the…of….England.
What does Jack Cooper do? He’s the …at Weston.
Does Rod like his job at Weston? …., he….
Why does he like England? Because it’s so …..from….
W ere does he want to live? In a…… of his…….
When did he start his job at Weston? In….
When did he meet Barbara? A few …
Who is Barbara? She’s…..and ….is…
Where did he meet Barbara? He met her at dinner at the …
How old is she? She is……
What does she do? She is the …of a….
Why did Rod enjoy meeting her? Because he…. Many people …Bristol.
ORAL EXERCISES.
1) ASK WHERE PEOPLE COME FROM.
Example: I’m Canadian.
Oh, yes. Where in Canada do you come from?
She’s English. Oh, yes. Where in England does she come from?
-I’m Canadian
-She’s English
-He’s Yugoslavian
-They’re Italian
-I’m French
She’s Australian.
2) ASK WHERE PEOPLE LIVE.
Example: Rod works in Bristol. Oh, does she live there too?
I study in Bristol. Oh, do you live there too?
-Rod works in Bristol.
-I study in Bristol.
-Barbara has a shop in Bristol.
-Paul studies in Kenya.
My parents both work in Mexico.
3) SAY WHERE PLACES AND THINGS ARE.
It is Rod’s first day at Weston Aeronautics. Jack Cooper is showing him around.
Rod: Where’s your office, by the way?
Jack: That is mine over there.
Rod: Oh yes. And where is my room?
Jack: That’s yours over there.
4) GIVE CORRECT INFORMATION.
Rod can’t find where places and things are.
Rod: Is that Jack’s office?
Girl: No, Jack’s office is here.
Rod: I see. And this is the secretary’s room, isn’t it?
Girl: No, the secretary’s room is here.
-Is that Jack’s office?
-I see. And this is the secretary’s room, isn’t it?
-Oh, yes, and that Mike’s office?
-Ah! Now, I’d like to make a phone call. Is this the secretary’s telephone?
But this is John’s office.
5 GIVE REASONS.
-Why do you live in Bristol? Because I like living in Bristol.
-Why do you always get up early? Because I like getting up early.
Why do you always cycle to work?
-Why do you always go to bed early?
-Why do you always study at night?
-Why do you write letters everyday?
DIALOG 4
Rod: Hi! My name is Rod . What’s yours?
You:……..
Rod: You are not English, are you?
You:…….
Rod: Where exactly do you come from?
You: ….
Rod: Oh, yes. I live in a hostel at the moment. What about you?
You: ……..
Rod Anyway, what do you like doing in your spare time?
You:…….
Rod: I see. And why do you like to learn English?
You: ….
Rod: That’s a good reason. Where do you study by the way?
You:….
Rod: Oh, there’s a friend of mine over there. I’d like to talk to her. It was nice meeting you. Bye!
You :
UNIT ONE: summary
1 What is your name? How is it spelt?
2 What is your wife’s name? My wife’s name is …
3 What is your husband’s name? My husband’s name is …
4 What is your father’s name? My father’s name is …
5 What is your mother’s name? My mother’s name is …
6 What is your boyfriend’s name?
7 What is your girlfriend’s name?
8 What is your teacher’s name?
9 What is her daughter’s name?
10 What is his son’s name?
11 What are their names?
12 Do you have any children?
13 How is your elder brother?
14 How old are you?
15 How old is your son or daughter?
16 Are you children here?
17 Is your family here?
18 Is your mother or your father here?
19 Where do you live?
20 Do you have a brother or a sister?
21 Do you have a father or a mother? Where does he/she live?
22 Do you have all your parents?
23 Are you an orphan?
24 Is your brother or sister married?
25 I s your wife here?
26 How are you?
27 How is your wife?
28 How is his husband?
29How are your children?
30 How is your family?
31When were you born?
32 Where were you born?
32 Where was your mother born?
33 How old is your wife?
34 Is that a door?
35 Is this a candle?
36 Are these stones?
37 Are those flowers?
38 How old were you two years ago?
39 What do you do?
40 What does he /she do?
41 What do they do?
42 Who is that?
43 What are you?
44 Where are you coming from?
45 Where do you come from?
46 What is the French for a dog?
47 What is the English for “une maison?”
48 What nationality are you?
49 You are not English, are you?
50 Where do you come from in Rwanda?
51 You are not Canadian, are you?
52 They are not Italian, are they?
53 Is he /she here on vacation?
54 Are you here on holiday?
55 My name is Peter by the way, what’s yours?
56 My daughter is Mary by the way, what’s yours?
57 Would you like another sheet of paper?
58 Would you like another bottle?
59 What does Kabuye factory make?
60 Where is Kabuye factory situated?
61What does Bralirwa supply?
62 Why do you like Kibungo?
63 When did you start your business?
64 When did you start to teach?
65 When did you meet Uwamahoro Hillary?
66 Where did you meet her?
UNIT TWO
EXPRESS LIKES AND DISLIKES.
Do you like cooking? -Yes, very much.
-It’s all right.
-Sometimes.
-It depends.
-No, not much.
No, I hate it.
Do you mind doing housework? No, I like it.
It’s all right.
Sometimes.
It depends.
Yes, I hate it.
DIALOG
Paul: Do you like working at Kabuye factory James?
James: Yes, very much. The job’s interesting and the people there are friendly.
Paul: And do you mind living in a hostel?
James: It’s all right, but I want to find a flat of my own soon. Where do you live, by the way?
Paul: In a flat on the other side of the city, in an old part of Kigali. What do you think of Kigali?
James: I like it. It’s a beautiful city and the countryside around here is lovely. How do you like it?
Paul: Well, it’s my hometown, of course. I think it is a bit depressing in winter, but it’s
nice in Spring and Autumn. Do you know many people yet?
James: No, not many people yet. Unfortunately.
Paul: Well, would you like to come and have a look round the shoe shop one day? In fact, what about coming next Saturday at lunchtime? We close at one o’ clock.
James: Thanks. That is a great idea. Why don’t we have lunch together?
Paul: Fine, I’m not so keen on big lunches, but we could have something light.
James: Good. That’s fixed then.
Peter: Come on now; dinner is ready.
QUESTIONS
1 Does James like his job at Kabuye? He……..
2 Where does he live? In a……
3 Where does Paul live? In a …….on ….side of the city, in an….
4 Does James know many people in Kigali? ……….he…….
5 What does Paul invite James to do ? To …..and have a ….the …
6 When does he suggest? Next …..at …o’ clock.
7 What does James suggest to do? Have …….together.
PRACTICE.
1 Work in pairs. Ask your partner about his/her likes and dislikes.
Do you like ………..?
Cooking, going for long walks, sightseeing, swimming, dancing, reading, watching television.
Do you mind……….?
Writing letters, washing up, studying, ironing, helping others
2 Write a few lines about your partner’s likes and dislikes. Like this:
John likes playing and singing very much, but he does not like cooking and doing housework. On the other hand, he does not mind getting up early or being alone.
3 Now write a few lines about yourself. Like this: I like …….but…..
4 MORE PRACTICE
Do you mind people smoking when you are eating?
Do you mind people talking when you are watching television?
Do you mind traveling in the rush hour?
Do you mind waiting for others?
Do you like drinking beer?
Do you like greeting others?
Do you like going on foot?
Do you mind working in fields?
Do you like working with children?
Do you like staying in bed in the morning?
Do you like getting up early?
Do you mind smoking cigarettes?
Do you mind working outside?
UNIT THREE
DISCUSS PERSONAL COMFORT AND HEALTH
SYMPATHISE AND MAKE SUGGETIONS.
DIALOG ONE
Nancy: Hello, mum. How do you feel today?
Mum: Not too good. I’m afraid.
Nancy: Oh dear, I am sorry. What’s the matter?
Mum: I don’t know, but I’ve got a pain in my back now.
Nancy: Well why don’t you tell the nurse?
Mum: Yes, I will. Now how are the children?
Nancy: Oh Mark has got a cold and a slight temperature. But he’s a little better today. And Mandy’s very well.
Mum: Oh, I am glad. Did you sleep well last night?
Nancy: No, I didn’t. I’m afraid. Old Mrs. Grey in the next house cried all night. I must go back now and look after Mark. He’s still got a temperature, Norman’s at the work, of course.
Mum: All right, dear. Give all them all my love.
Nancy: I will. See you tomorrow.
USEFUL WORDS.
How do you feel today? Much better, thanks. Oh, I am glad.
How is your headache? A little better, thanks. Oh, good.
How is your back? Not too bad, thanks. Oh, I’m glad.
How is your malaria? Not too good, I’m afraid. Oh, dear I’m sorry.
How is your stomachache?
How is your pain?
How is your fracture?
Exercise.
Work in pairs. Ask, answer and respond like this:
How do you feel today?
Much better, thanks.
Oh I am glad.
How is your back?
Not too good, I’m afraid.
Oh, dear I am sorry.
Headache, bad cold, stomachache, malaria, a pain in my back, a pain in my leg.
What’s the matter? I’ve got a headache.
I’ve got a temperature.
Oh ,dear; I am sorry. Why don’t you take an aspirin?
Why don’t you lie down?
Why don’t you go home?
Why don’t you see a doctor?
PAUL’S HEADACHE
DIALOG TWO
Jack: Where shall we eat dinner tonight? Shall we try that new Italian restaurant?
Paul: I can’t eat anything. I feel terrible. My head aches.
Jack: You must be sick. You should see a doctor .You might have flu. A headache is one sign of the flu.
Paul: I do not know any doctor here.
Jack: I have a good doctor. I can make an appointment for you. Shall I call Dr Boyd?
Paul: No, thanks. I’ll probably feel all right tomorrow.
Jack: Well, go to bed early and get some rest.
Paul: I should study. We are going to have a history test tomorrow morning. I failed the last test, so I must pass this one.
Jack: But you may have flu. You can’t take a test with the flu. And you can’t study with
a terrible headache.
Paul: That’s true, but I must study or I will fail that history test!
DIALOG THREE
Jane: I hear you’ve been ill.
Cathy: Well, I had the flu for a couple of weeks, but I am fine now.
Jane: You’re looking well. By the way, did you hear about Mrs. Jackson?
Cathy: No, what about her?
Jane: She had such a bad case of the flu that they had to take her to the hospital.
Cathy: Oh, I’m sorry to hear that.
DIALOG FOUR
Peter calls in to see her neighbor Pat one Saturday morning.
Peter: Hello, Pat. Are you busy?
Pat: Oh, hello Peter. Come in. No, I’m not busy.
Peter: How do you feel now? How’s your cold?
Pat: Oh, much better, thanks.
Peter: Oh good. I am glad. Look, would you like to come into town with me this
morning and buy some curtain material?
Pat: Yes, I’d love to. What about going to John’s? They usually have good materials.
Peter: Hmmm I’m not so keen on John’s. It’s so expensive there. But there’s a good shop.
Which sells materials in Patton Street? It’s called Paul’s.
Pat: Paul’s? I do not know it. How do you get to it?
Peter: Well, you walk down Broad Street and turn right at the second traffic light and then you’re in Patton Street. Paul’ is about half way down on the left.
(In Paul’s)
Boy: Can I help you? Or are you looking?
Peter: Well, yes, actually. I am looking for some plain curtain material. Dark blue,
I think.
Boy: Well, the plain materials are over there. Why don’t you have a look? I’ll be back in
a minute.
Peter: Thank you. What do you think of this, Pat?
Pat: Mmm. It’s all right. But it isn’t dark blue.
Peter: No, and it’s rather expensive.
Boy: Have you found anything you like?
Peter: Er…I’m not sure. May I take a sample of this material?
Boy: Yes, of course. Here you are.
Peter: Thank you very much.
Boy: You are welcome.
A Physical Examination
Doctor: When did you last come in for a physical exam?Patient: I had my last physical two years ago.
Doctor: Have you had any other exams recently? Blood work, an EKG or an ultra-sound?Patient: Well, I had a few X-rays at the dentist's.
Doctor: How have you been feeling in general? Patient: Pretty well. No complaints, really.
Doctor: Could you roll up your left sleeve? I'd like to take your blood pressure.Patient: Certainly.
Doctor: 120 over 80. That's fine. You don't seem to be overweight, that's good. Do you exercise regularly?Patient: No, not really. If I run up a flight of stairs, it takes me a while to get my breath back. I need to get out more.
Doctor: That would be a good idea. How about your diet? Patient: I think I eat a pretty balanced diet. You know, I'll have a hamburger from time to time, but generally I have well-balanced meals.
Doctor: That's good. Now, I'm going to listen to your heart. Patient: Ooh, that's cold!
Doctor: Don't worry it's just my stethoscope. Now, breathe in and hold your breath. Please pull up your shirt, and breathe deeply... Everything sounds good. Let's take a look at your throat. Please open wide and say 'ah'.Patient: 'ah'
Doctor: OK. Everything looks ship shape. I'm going to order some blood work and that's about it. Take this slip to the front desk and they'll arrange an appointment for the tests. Patient: Thank you doctor. Have a nice day.
Key Vocabulary
physical examination (exam)blood workEKGultra-soundx-raysto roll up sleevesoverweight - underweightto exercise regularlybalanced dietwell-balanced mealsstethoscopeto breath in to hold one's breathto pull on one's shirtto breathe deeplyto open wideto look ship shapeslipfront deskto arrange an appointment
Some Troubling Symptoms
Patient: Good afternoon.
Doctor: Good afternoon. Have a seat. So, what have you come in for today?Patient: Thank you. I'm feeling ill, I've got quite a bad cough, but I don't seem to have a fever.
Doctor: I see. How long have you had these symptoms?Patient: Oh, I've had the cough for two weeks, but feeling ill just these past few days.
Doctor: Are you having any other problems?Patient: Well, I've got a headache. I've also had a little bit of diarrhea.
Doctor: Do you produce any phlegm when coughing?Patient: Sometimes, but it's usually pretty dry.
Doctor: Do you smoke?Patient: Yes, a few cigarettes a day. Certainly no more than a half a pack a day.
Doctor: How about allergies? Do you have any allergies?Patient: Not that I'm aware of.
Doctor: Does your head feel stuffy?Patient: Yes, for the past few days.
Doctor: OK. Now let's have a look. Could you please open your mouth and say 'ah'?
Key Vocabulary
symptomsto feel illcoughfeverto have a coughheadachediarrheaphlegmto coughallergystuffyto feel stuffy
Joint Pain
Patient: Good morning. Doctor Smith?Doctor: Yes, please come in.
Patient: Thank you. My name is Doug Smith.Doctor: What have you come in for today Ms Anders?
Patient: I've been having some pain in my joints, especially the knees.Doctor: How long have you been having the pain?
Patient: I'd say it started three or four months ago. It's been getting worse recently.Doctor: Are you having any other problems like weakness, fatigue or headaches?
Patient: Well I've certainly felt under the weather.Doctor: Right. How much physical activity do you get? Do you play any sports?
Patient: Some. I like to play tennis about once a week. I take my dog on a walk every morning.Doctor: OK. Let's have a look. Can you point to the area where you are having pain?
Key Vocabulary
joint painkneesweaknessfatigueheadacheto feel under the weatherphysical activityto play sportsto have pain
Pain that Comes and Goes
Doctor: How long have you been having this pain?Patient: It started in June. So for more than five months now. My stomach hurts after some meals, but not always.
Doctor: You should have come in earlier. Let's get to the bottom of this. Have you changed your eating habits during this period?Patient: No, not really. Well, that's not true. I'm eating the same foods, but less. You know, the pain seems to come and go.
Doctor: How strong is the pain exactly? On a scale of one to ten, how would you describe the intensity of the pain? Patient: Well, I'd say the pain is about a two on a scale of one to ten. Like I say, it's not really bad. It just keeps coming back...
Doctor: How long does the pain last when you get it?Patient: It comes and goes. Sometimes, I hardly feel anything. Other times, it can last up to half an hour or more.
Doctor: Is there a type of food that seems to cause stronger pain than other types?Patient: Hmmm ... heavy foods like steak or lasagna usually brings it on. I've been trying to avoid those.
Doctor: Does the pain travel to any other parts of your body - chest, shoulder or back? Or does it remain around the stomach area.Patient: No, it just hurts here.
Key Vocabulary
painstomachto hurtto get to the bottom of somethingeating habitsto come and goon a scale of one to tento keep coming backto last (an amount of time)heavy foodsto avoidchestshoulderback
A Prescription
Patient: … what about the problems I've been having sleeping?Doctor: I'm going to give you a prescription for some medicine to help you get a better night's sleep.
Patient: Thank you doctor.Doctor: Here, you can get this prescription at any pharmacy.
Patient: How often should I take the medicine?Doctor: Just take one pill about 30 minutes before you go to bed.
Patient: How long should I take them?Doctor: The prescription is for thirty days. If you're not sleeping well after thirty days, I'd like you to come back in.
Patient: Is there anything else I can do to help me sleep at night?Doctor: Don't worry so much about things at work. I know, I know... easier said than done.
Patient: Should I stay home from work?Doctor: No, I don't think that's necessary. Just remember to stay calm.
Key Vocabulary
prescriptionto get a good night's sleeppharmacyto take medicineto take a pilleasier said than doneto stay calm
Feeling Queasy
Nurse: Good morning, Mr Adams. How are you doing today?Patient: Horrible! I can't eat anything! I just feel sick to my stomach. Take the tray away.
Nurse: That's too bad. I'll just put this over here for now. Have you felt queasy for very long? Patient: I woke up during the middle of the night. I couldn't get back to sleep, and now I feel terrible.
Nurse: Have you been to the toilet? Any diarrhea or vomiting? Patient: I've been to the toilet twice, but no diarrhea or vomiting. Perhaps, I should drink something. Can I have a cup of tea?
Nurse: Certainly, I'll get you a cup immediately. Would you like black tea or peppermint tea?Patient: Peppermint, please. Do you think I could have another blanket? I'm so cold. I think I'm getting the chills.
Nurse: Here's an extra blanket. Let me tuck you in.Patient: You're so sweet. What is your name?
Nurse: My name is Alice. I'll be on shift during the day for the next few days.Patient: Hello Alice. My name is Jack. Nice to meet you.
Nurse: Let's get you feeling better Jack! Is there anything else I can get for you?Patient: That's alright. I think a cup of tea and a warm blanket should help.
Nurse: OK. I'll be back as soon as the tea is ready. Patient: Thank you.
Key Vocabulary
to feel queasyto feel sick to one's stomachtrayto wake upto feel terrible, awful, horribleto get (go) back to sleepto be to the toiletdiarrheavomitblack tea, peppermint teablanketto get the chillsto tuck someone in
Helping a Patient
Patient: Nurse, I think I might have a fever. It's so cold in here!Nurse: Here, let me check your forehead.
Patient: What do you think?Nurse: Your temperature seems raised. Let me get a thermometer to check.
Patient: How do I raise my bed? I can't find the controls.Nurse: Here you are. Is that better?
Patient: Could I have another pillow?Nurse: Certainly, Here you are. Is there anything else I can do for you?
Patient: No, thank you.Nurse: OK, I'll be right back with the thermometer.
Patient: Oh, just a moment. Can you bring me another bottle of water, too?Nurse: Certainly, I'll be back in a moment.
Key Vocabulary
feverto check someone's foreheadraised temperaturethermometerto raise / lower the bedcontrolspillow
Getting Patient Details
Administrative Staff: Hello, how can I help you?Patient: I've got an appointment with Dr. Adams.
Administrative Staff: Are you Ms Moyers? Patient: Yes, I am. I have an appointment at ten.
Administrative Staff: We just need to fill in some information for our files. Could you fill out these forms? Patient: Certainly ... (comes back after filling out the forms) what’s this form for?
Administrative Staff: It's just a privacy form informing you of our policies.Patient: Is that really necessary?
Administrative Staff: I'm afraid it is. Could you also sign that form? Patient: OK, there you go. Here's my insurance provider's card.
Administrative Staff: Thank you. OK, that'll be $20.Patient: Why do I have to pay $20?
Administrative Staff: It's the deductible for office visits required by your health care provider.Patient: ... but I'm insured aren't I?
Administrative Staff: Yes, of course. Your health care provider asks for deductibles on office visits.Patient: Every time I turn around I've got some additional fee to pay. I don't know why I pay for insurance!
Administrative Staff: I know it's frustrating. We also have a lot of paperwork. Every provider has different forms and requirements!Patient: This can't continue on like this!
Administrative Staff: I agree with that!
Key Vocabulary
appointment to fill in forms files form privacy policies to sign a form insurance provider insurance provider's card deductible office visit health care provider to be insured additional fee frustrating paperwork
UNIT FOUR
A TELEPHONE CALL.
John: Hello.
Fiacre: Hello. May I speak to Umulisa , please?
John: Just a minute……..Umulisa, it’s for you.
Umulisa: Hello.
Fiacre: Hi! Dear, this is Fiacre speaking. Would you like to go to a movie tonight?
Umulisa: Thanks, I’d love to. I haven’t been to a movie for a long time.
Fiacre: Good. I’ll pick you up around eight–thirty, and then the movie starts at nine.
Umulisa: Fine I’ll be ready.
LANGUAGES NOTES.
. A simple hello is the usual way of answering the telephone.
Business firms, however, frequently identify themselves when answering the telephone.
Example: Jones construction Company, Mr. Peter speaking.
. May I speak to ……please? A possible alternative is I’d like to speak to…..
.Would you like to …………This is a polite form of do you want to……..?
I’d love to: I would love to, a somewhat more enthusiastic response than I’d like to.
More sentences to use
… (company). Good morning.
… (company). Good afternoon.
… (company). How can I help you?
I'm afraid you have dialed the wrong number.
Who would you like to speak to?
What does it concern, please?
Would you mind telling me what you're calling about?
Hold the line, I'll put you through.
I'll pass you over to … (department).
… is speaking on another line.
… isn't in (yet).
… is away on business.
… is on holiday (this week).
… is out for lunch.
I'm afraid, … is not available at the moment.
… will be back any minute.
I'm sorry, but the line is engaged.
There's no reply.
If you hold the line, I'll try again.
Would you like to hold?
Could you try again later / tomorrow?
Can I take a message?
Would you like to leave a message for …?
If you give me your phone number, … will call you back.
Could I have your name, please?
Could I help you? / Maybe I can help you?
… here. / … speaking. / This is …
This is … (company), … (name) speaking.
Sorry, I must have dialed the wrong number.
Could I speak to …, please?
Am I speaking to …?
Could you put me through to …, please?
It's about …
I'm calling about …
Could you please tell … I phoned?
Could you give … a message, please?
Could you ask … to call me back?
Do you know when … will be back?
Will … be in the office tomorrow?
I'll try again later / tomorrow.
Maybe you could help me?
My English isn't very good.
The line is bad.
I can hardly hear you.
I didn't get that.
Could you speak more slowly, please?
Could you speak louder, please?
Could you repeat that, please?
Could you spell that, please?
Sorry? / Pardon?
Telephone English - Important Phrases
There are a number of phrases and idioms that are only used when telephoning. Let's first take a look at an example dialogue: Here are the most common:
· Operator: Hello, Frank and Brothers, How can I help you?
· Peter: This is Peter Jackson. Can I have extension 3421?
· Operator: Certainly, hold on a minute, I'll put you through...
· Frank: Bob Peterson's office, Frank speaking.
· Peter: This is Peter Jackson calling, is Bob in?
· Frank: I'm afraid he's out at the moment. Can I take a message?
· Peter: Yes, Could you ask him to call me at . I need to talk to him about the Nuovo line, it's urgent.
· Frank: Could you repeat the number please?
· Peter: Yes, that’s, and this is Peter Jackson.
· Frank: Thank you Mr Jackson, I'll make sure Bob gets this asap.
· Peter: Thanks, bye.
· Frank: Bye.
As you can see, the language is rather informal and there are some important differences to everyday English. Look at the chart below for key language and phrases used in telephone English:
Introducing yourselfThis is Ken.Ken speakingAsking who is on the telephoneExcuse me, who is this?Can I ask who is calling, please? Asking for SomeoneCan I have extension 321? (Extensions are internal numbers at a company)Could I speak to...? (Can I - more informal / May I - more formal)Is Jack in? (informal idiom meaning: Is Jack in the office? Connecting SomeoneI'll put you through (put through - phrasal verb meaning 'connect')Can you hold the line? Can you hold on a moment? How to reply when someone is not availableI'm afraid ... is not available at the momentThe line is busy... (when the extension requested is being used)Mr Jackson isn't in... Mr Jackson is out at the moment... Taking a MessageCould (Can, May) I take a message?Could (Can, May) I tell him who is calling?Would you like to leave a message?
Leaving a Message
Sometimes, there may not be anyone to answer the telephone and you will need to leave a message. Follow this outline to make sure that the person who should receive your message has all the information he/she needs.
1. Introduction - - - - Hello, this is Ken. OR Hello, My name is Ken Beare (more formal).
2. State the time of day and your reason for calling - - - - - It's ten in the morning. I'm phoning (calling, ringing) to find out if ... / to see if ... / to let you know that ... / to tell you that ...
3. Make a request - - - - Could you call (ring, telephone) me back? / Would you mind ... ? /
4. Leave your telephone number - - - - My number is .... / You can reach me at .... / Call me at ...
5. Finish - - - - Thanks a lot, bye. / I'll talk to you later, bye.
Here's an example of message
Telephone: (Ring... Ring... Ring...) Hello, this is Tom. I'm afraid I'm not in at the moment. Please leave a message after the beep..... (beep)
Ken: Hello Tom, this is Ken. It's about noon and I'm calling to see if you would like to go to the Mets game on Friday. Could you call me back? You can reach me at 367-8925 until five this afternoon. I'll talk to you later, bye.
As you can see, leaving a message is pretty simple. You only need to make sure that you have stated all the most important information: Your Name, The Time, The Reason for Calling, Your Telephone Number
A:
Good afternoon, Fowler's, may I help you?
B:
Extension 237 please.
A:
I'm sorry, the line's busy, will you hold?
B:
Yes, I'll hold.
..............
A:
I'm putting you through.
C:
Marketing, Harry Webb speaking.
B:
Could I speak to Maurice Caine please?
C:
I'm sorry, he's in a meeting at the moment.
B:
Do you know when he'll be back?
C:
He should be back around four. Can I take a message?
B:
Yes, please ask him to call David Jones on 629 3478
C:
629 3478, right?
B:
That's right.
C:
OK, I'll see he gets your message.
Below are 6 common phone call dialogues. You can read and or listen to the dialogues.
Dialogue 1. Telephone conversation company to company call. the person you want to speak with answers.
ROHAN: Hello, English Essentials, Rohan speaking.DERYN: Hello it's Deryn Kennedy speaking from ABC Pty. Ltd., Is that Rohan Cox?ROHAN: Yes it is. How can I help you Deryn?DERYN: I am ringing to let you know that your order for 2,000 Dictionaries has been processed and they will be delivered to you tomorrow.ROHAN: Oh wonderful, thanks very much.DERYN: Ok. Is there anything else we can do for you Mr. Cox?ROHAN: No, not at the moment. That will be fine, thanks.DERYN: Ok, thank you. Bye for now.ROHAN: Bye.
Dialogue 2. Telephone conversation company to company call. The person you want to speak with is not there and will return your call.
ROHAN: Hello, English Essentials, Rohan speaking.DERYN: Hello it's Deryn Kennedy speaking from ABC Pty. Ltd., I would like to speak with Stewart Cox if he is available thanks.ROHAN: Oh I'm sorry Deryn, he has just gone out of the office, can I take a message or get him to call you back?DERYN: Sure. I will leave my details so he can call me back ok?ROHAN: Ok. What is your number there please?DERYN: 090 2349 5668ROHAN: Ok, I'll have Stewart call you when he returns in a few minutes.DERYN: Ok, thanks. Bye.ROHAN: Bye.
Dialogue 3. Telephone conversation company to company call. The person you want to speak with is not there and you will call them back.
ROHAN: Hello, English Essentials, Rohan speaking.DERYN: Hello it's Deryn Kennedy speaking from ABC Pty. Ltd., I would like to speak with Stewart Cox if he is available thanks.ROHAN: Oh I'm sorry Deryn, he has just gone out of the office, can I take a message or get him to call you back?DERYN: Oh, it's ok. I will call him back later. What time are you expecting him back?ROHAN: He should be here in 20 minutes time, so you can call anytime after that, he will be here then.DERYN: Oh ok, I will call then thanks very much.ROHAN: Ok, bye.DERYN: Thanks. Bye.
Dialogue 4. Telephone conversation friend to friend call, your friend answers the phone.
ROHAN: Hello.DERYN: Hi Rohan, how are you?ROHAN: Oh I'm doing well thanks Deryn. How have you been?DERYN: Excellent thanks. Would you like to go to see a movie this weekend?ROHAN: It depends on what day and time.DERYN: What about Saturday night at 8 o' clock, is that convenient for you?ROHAN: Yeah, Saturday night is ok, I am busy most of the day Saturday and also on Sunday night, but Saturday night is fine.DERYN: Great. How about we meet at the West exit at ah Yokohama train station and we could walk down to the Yokohama cinema from there?ROHAN: Sure that sounds great. Thanks for calling Deryn, I have to go now, I'm a little busy, sorry. But I will see you this Saturday night around 7:30pm ok?DERYN: Ok great, thanks, bye Rohan.ROHAN: See you later Deryn.
Dialogue 5. Telephone conversation friend to friend call, your friend does not answer the phone (someone else does) but your friend is home.
ROHAN: Hello.DERYN: Hello this is Deryn speaking I would like to speak with Stewart please ?ROHAN: Are you a friend of his?DERYN: Yes I am.ROHAN: Oh ok, I will go and get him for you.DERYN: Thank you.STEWART: Stewart speaking.DERYN: Hi Stewart, it's Deryn.
Now you can continue this conversation as above.
Dialogue 6. Telephone conversation friend to friend call, your friend is not home.
ROHAN: Hello.DERYN: Hello it's Deryn speaking, I would like to speak to Stewart please ?ROHAN: Sorry, he is not here. Can I take a message?DERYN: Certainly. Could you please let him know that Deryn Kennedy called, and if he could call me back, that would be great.ROHAN: Ok, sure. He won't be home until late tonight, is that still ok?DERYN: Yes, that's fine, I don't go to bed until 2 or 3am, so anytime is fine, thanks.ROHAN: Ok sure, bye.DERYN: Bye.
UNIT FIVE.
ORDERING A MEAL.
Waiter: Are you ready to order now, sir?
Peter: Yes, I’ll have tomato soup, roast beef, mashed potatoes, and peas.
Waiter: That’s tomato soup….roast beef….mashed potatoes…..and peas .How do you
Want your beef, rare, medium, or well done.
Peter: Well done, please
Waiter: Anything to drink?
Peter: Hmmmm…just water. I will have coffee with my dessert.
LANGUAGES NOTES.
Notice that the verb in this idiom is have, not take or eat.
The waiter pauses briefly as he writes each item in his order book.
Rare means slightly cooked.
Well done, please: notice that the subject and verb are omitted in the response; only the necessary information is given.
Anything to drink? Notice that the subject and the verb are omitted. The question is understood. To mean something like do you want anything to drink? Would you like anything to drink? Or will you have anything to drink?
Hmmmm is a pause sound, used while the speaker is thinking of what he wants to say.
Just water: again the response omits the subject and the verb.
I’ll have coffee …..notice that the verb in this idiom is have, not take or drink.
Second dialog
W:
Good evening.
C:
A table for two please.
W:
Certainly. Just here, sir.
C:
Could we sit by the window?
W:
I'm sorry. The window tables are all reserved.
W:
Are you ready to order, sir?
C:
Yes. I'll have tomato soup for starters and my wife would like prawn cocktail.
W:
One tomato soup and one prawn cocktail. What would you like for main course?
C:
I'll have the plaice and my wife would like the shepherd's pie.
W:
I'm afraid the plaice is off.
C:
Oh dear. What do you recommend?
W:
The steak pie is very good.
C:
OK I'll have that.
W:
Would you like anything to drink?
C:
Yes, a bottle of red wine please.
Word List
Accomodation
R:
Good evening. How may I help you?
G:
Have you got any rooms?
R:
Yes. Single, double or twin?
G:
Single, please.
R:
Would you like a room with a shower or a bath?
G:
Just a shower will do.
R:
Room 319. That'll be £12.50 a night, including breakfast. How long will you be staying?
G:
Just a couple of nights. What time is breakfast?
R:
Breakfast is from 7 to 9.
G:
And what time is dinner?
R:
Dinner's from 6:30 to 8:30. You'd better hurry, the restaurant closes in 15 minutes.
G:
Thanks.
accommodation
double room
twin room
single room
double bed
fill in a form
reception
receptionist
key
book in advance
B&B
vacancies
no vacancies
Hotel
arrival date / date of arrival
departure date / date of departure
room service
air conditioning
make a reservation / book a room
request more information
complete / fill in the form
staff
cancel a booking
Restaurant
eating out
bill (The bill please.)
bottle
dessert
drink
hungry
thirsty
menu
order (Are you ready to order?)
restaurant
set meal
table (A table for two please.)
guest
waiter , waitress
Here you go.
tip (Shall we tip the waiter?)
MENU
APPETIZERS
Avocado vinaigrette salad
Fruit plate with cheese
Baked potato with cheese and sauce
Freshly baked bread with butter and homemade jam
Antipasto salad (delicatessen meats, olives, peppers, mozzarella
cheese served with a light vinaigrette)
MAIN DISHES
Beef kabobs served with your choice of rice or french fries and choice
of yogurt sauce or spicy tomato sauce
Half chicken barbeque, served with choice of rice or french fries
Beef stew with vegetables, served with a side of homemade bread
Chicken stew with groundnut sauce, potatoes, spices and vegetables,
served with rice
Grilled fish with a papaya sauce, served with rice or grilled potatoes
SIDE DISHES
Mashed potatoes (add cheese)
Rice
French fries (chips)
Green beans
Green peas
Green salad (served cold) with dressing
Beets - cooked with orange slices
BEVERAGES
Milk
Fanta (orange, citron, Krest, CocaCola)
Tea
Coffee
Bottled Juice (papaya, pineapple, passion fruit, apple)
Fresh-squeezed pineapple, passion fruit or carrot juice
Beer (Mutsig, Heineken)
Wine (red)
Bottled Water
DESSERT
Custard (eggs, sugar, milk)
Lemon cake
UNIT SIX.
WEATHER AND SEASONS.
What’s the weather like?
The sun is shining.
The sky is blue.
It is cloudy.
The sky is grey.
It is raining heavily.
It is raining lightly.
It is stormy.
It is windy.
It is foggy.
It is hot.
It is cold.
It is cool.
Winter. Spring. Summer. Autumn.
DIALOG
Mary: I’m cold. I thought it was supposed to get warmer today.
Ruth: Yeah, I thought so; too .That’s what the weatherman said.
Mary: It must be the wind that makes it so cold; I’m freezing!
Ruth: Me too. Let’s go inside.
Mary: O.K. It’s no fun standing out here, even if the sun is shining.
EXERCISE .
1 What’s the weather like in the west in September?
2 What’s the weather like in April?
3 What’s the weather like in December?
4 What’s the weather like in July?
5 What’s the weather like in England in the winter?
6 What’s the weather like in Canada in Summer?
7 What’s the weather like in America in Autumn?
8 What’s the weather like in France in Spring?
UNIT SEVEN.
EXPRESS PERSONAL OPINIONS.
Ask for an opinion Express an opinion Words to use.
What do you think of…? I think it’s…………. Lovely.
They are…………… Marvelous.
He’s……………….. Interesting.
I think he/she /it looks like Fascinating.
How do you like ……? I like it. It’s ……… Attractive.
It’s all right but ….. Friendly.
Beautiful.
Modern.
Awful.
Boring.
Do you like ……….? I do not like it…… Dull.
I think it’s ……… Depressing.
Yes/No/ I do not know. It’s Ugly.
Unfriendly
Old- fashioned.
EXAMPLE.
What do you think of the new theatre?
I think it’s awful.
Do you?
I think it’s quite attractive.
What do you think Ann? I don’t like it. I think it’s ugly.
How do you like people here? They’re all right. They’re friendly but they’re a bit old-fashioned.
Do you like this book?
I do not know. It’s fascinating but it’s also bit depressing.
ROLE PLAY.
Work in pairs. Imagine that your partner is a visitor either to your country or to Rwanda. Ask her /his opinions about some of these things: the weather, the food, the people, the way of life, the countryside, the houses, some famous buildings. Make notes of your partner’s answers.
2 Write a few sentences about your partner’s opinions. Like this: Maria thinks the weather is nice in summer, but awful, in Winter and she does not like the food very much. On the other hand, she thinks the people here are very friendly and she likes the way of life. She thinks the houses are dull, but some of the famous buildings, like Westminster Abbey, are very beautiful.
UNIT EIGHT
MAKE SUGGESTIONS AND PLANS
AGREE AND DISAGREE WITH SUGGESTIONS.
Example: What about coming next Sunday?
That’s a good idea!
- How about meeting for lunch?
That’s a great idea.
- Why don’t we have lunch together?
Well I’m not so keen on lunch. How about supper instead?
Barbara and Ted are planning their holiday:
B:
Where shall we go for our holiday this year, Ted?
T:
How about Majorca? It's cheap, and good weather is guaranteed.
B:
I'd rather do something more exciting this year. Have you seen this ad for adventure holidays in Scotland?
T:
I prefer lying on a beach to hang-gliding and canoeing.
B:
But we do that every year. I'd prefer to do something different this time. I'd rather not go anywhere so crowded.
T:
Well, you have a point. Majorca was very crowded last time. I'd prefer somewhere a little quieter too, but I don't fancy anything too active.
B:
How about Torquay? The weather's usually good and there are some lovely walks around the coast.
T:
Sounds OK to me. Would you prefer to stay in a hotel or rent a cottage?
EXERCISE.
1. WORK IN PAIRS. ASK AND ANSWER LIKE THIS:
What about having a meal at …. ?
How about going to see …..?
going to ……….?
Watching/ playing …..?
Yes, that’s a good idea? Great idea!
2 Work in pairs. Ask and answer like this:
Why do not we have a meal at…..?
Go to see….?
Go to ……
Watch /play some ……..?
Well, I’m not so keen on ……, why do not we…….instead?
UNIT NINE
SPORTS
DIALOG ONE
John : Say ,what’s your favorite sport?
Jack : Hmmmm…it’s hard to say. I like golf a lot –but I guess like tennis.
John : Do you play much tennis ?
Jack : Yes, quite a bit. How about game sometime?
John : Sorry, I’m strictly a spectator- football, baseball, basketball, golf ..I watch them all.
DIALOG TWO
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.
Anne :Listen ! Somebody’s playing the piano .
Betty :Yeah, it sounds nice, doesn’t it? I wish I could play a musical instrument.
Anne : Don’t you play the violin ?
Betty : No ,but my sister does. Actually , she’s pretty good at it.
Anne : I took flute lessons for a couple of years ,but I never learned to play very well .
I guess I don’t have musical talent.
Betty ; Oh, that’s not true. You sing very well. I can not even do that!
UNIT TEN
COINCIDENCES
Allen : Haven’t I seen you somewhere before?
Julia : No, I don’t think so.
Allen :But your face is familiar wait a second…I know…we were on the same flight to
New York last month.
Julia : Oh, yes. Now I remember. What a coincidence to meet in San Francisco.
Allen : Well, you know what they say-it’s a small world.
LANGUAGES NOTES
Haven’t I seen you somewhere before? The negative question is equivalent to I’ve seen you somewhere before, haven’t I?
What a …! An exclamation denoting a great degree of surprise, joy, disappointment, etc.
Some other examples of its use:
What a surprise to see you here!
What a joy to have you with us!
What a misfortune!
What a shame that you have to leave so soon!
What a wonderful idea that is!
UNIT ELEVEN
ASK AND TALK ABOUT FACILITIES
Is there a museum in this town? Yes, there is. Or No, there isn’t.
Are there any restaurants? Yes there are. Or No, there aren’t.
EXERCISES
1 Work in pairs. Ask and talk about facilities.
a chemist, a disco, a supermarket, a church, banks, a travel agency, a theatre, a park, a library, nightclubs, a police station, a hairdresser, a post office, restaurants.
2 Work in pairs.
Example : Is there a post office near here?
Yes, there is one on the corner of Elm street.
Is a bank near here? Yes there are two. There’s one in Elm street next to the post office.
And one on the corner of Oak Street and Poplar Street.
DIALOG
One Friday, Rod drove out to Portland on business. Then he realized that he needed some money for the weekend. So he parked his car near the bus station.
Rod : Excuse me , is there a bank near here ?
Man : Yes, there is. The nearest one is in Oak Street.
Rod :I’m afraid I’m a stranger here. How do I get to Oak Street?
Man : You walk down Birch Street as far as the first traffic lights. Then you turn right and the bank is at the end of the street on the right. In fact it’s on the corner of Oak Street and Poplar Street.
Rod : I see. Walk down Birch Street, turn right at the traffic lights into Oak Street and it’s at the end of Oak Street on the right.
Man : That’s it. You can’t miss it; it’s Midland Bank.
Rod :Fine .Thank you very much.
Man : You are welcome.
ASK AND GIVE DIRECTIONS
Walk down Birch Street as far as Oak Street.
Turn left or right into Oak Street.
Cross over Poplar Street.
The bank is half way down or at the end or at the beginning of the Street.
On the left/ on the right
It’s next to / opposite to the pub.
It’s between the pub and the chemist’s.
Exercise.
Excuse me, is there a ……near here?
Yes there is. The nearest one is in …..Street.
There is one in ……..Street.
How do I get to ……..Street?
You ……..
I see you …..
That’s right.
Thanks very much.
You are welcome.
Draw a sketch map of your local area and mark some of the places and streets. Work in pairs. Ask for and give directions to some of these places.
UNIT TWELVE
PAST TIMES. DIALOG.
Haliyamutu : What do you do in your spare time?
Murutanabo : Oh nothing special. I read …watch T.V...play with children.
Haliyamutu : Don’t you have any hobbies, like stamp collecting or things like that?
Murutanabo : No, I don’t have any hobbies. How about you?
Haliyamutu : I have just one –photography. It’s expensive, but it’s a lot of fun.
Languages notes
Spare time: Leisure, extra time, free time.
Nothing special: No particular thing.
How about you?: Do you have any hobbies ?
Just : Only.
UNIT THIRTEEN
TRANSPORTATION
Joyce: Shall we take a taxi or a bus to the meeting?
Bell: We’d better take a bus it’s almost impossible to find a taxi during rush hour.
Joyce: Isn’t that a taxi stop over there?
Bill: Yes….oh, no. There’s a bus now. We’ll have to run to catch it.
Joyce: o .K...Oh, no! We just missed it.
Bill: Never mind. There’ll be another one in ten minutes.
.
UNIT FOURTEEN
WEDDINGS
Bonnie: Guess what! King and Queen are engaged!
Janice: Really? When did that happen?
Bonnie : One year ago .They met last summer and now, just think …they’ll be married
soon.
Janice : Have they set a date for the wedding?
Bonnie : No, not yet. But queen says they would like to get married in November or
December. Then they will go to New York City for their honeymoon.
LANGUAGES NOTES.
Guess what !: I have something important to tell you.
Really?: Oh, that’s interesting!
Set a date: Decide on a day when it will take place.
They’d like: “They want” but “they’d like” is a little softer a little less positive than “they
want”.
WEDDING TERMS
Wedding
Dowry
I have been invited to a wedding
Wedding anniversary
Wedding band
Wedding breakfast
Wedding cake
Wedding day
On my wedding day
Wedding dress
Wedding guests
Wedding invitation
Wedding list
Wedding march
Wedding night
Wedding present
Wedding ring
Wedding music
Bride
Bridegroom
Bridesmaid
Best man
Bride to be
Bridal veil.
UNIT FIFTEEN
ASK FOR, GIVE AND REFUSE PERMISSION
ASK FOR PERMISSION
FORMALLY: May I come and see you tonight?
INFORMALLY: Can I come and see you tonight?
GIVE PERMISSION
FORMALLY : Yes of course. Or yes, certainly.
INFORMALLY : Yes, sure ; yes, no problem ; yes, do; ok.
REFUSE PERMISSION
FORMALLY : Well, actually, I’ll be busy .
INFORMALLY : Sorry, but I will be busy.
EXERCISE
Work in pairs. Ask for, give, and refuse permission, first formally, and then informally .Use a different reason each time.
Come and see you tomorrow. Telephone you at work.
Open the window. Borrow your car. Go to movie tonight.
DIALOG
Ruth, a good friend of Mary’s, comes to see her one day after work. Ruth usually does what she wants but, she always asks permission first.
Mary : Ruth! How nice to see you! Come in!
Ruth : Thanks. Phew! I’m tired. Can I sit?
Mary : Yes, sure! That’s the comfortable chair over there.
Ruth : Great ! Thanks. Oh, what’s the time by the way?
Mary : Quarter past six .
Ruth : Oh dear, Is it ? I must ring Joan. Can I call her?
Mary : Sorry, but it’s in the hall.
Ruth : Thanks.
(She goes to ring Joan. A few minutes later she comes back) Joan sends her
regards.
Mary: Oh, thanks.
Ruth: What’s that book, Mary?
Mary: Oh, sorry. It’s just a book about animal’s life. It’s very exciting.
UNIT SIXTEEN
DESCRIPTIIVE VOCABULARY
What does she /he look like?
Tall Short
Fat Thin
Rich Poor
Clever Stupid
Lazy Hardworking
Good Bad
Kind Unkind
Nice Rotten
Friendly Unfriendly
Young Old
Weak Strong
Beautiful Ugly
Brave Timid
Honest Dishonest
Confident Unconfident
Healthy Unhealthy
Generous Greedy
Important Insignificant
Knowledgeable Ignorant
Happy Sad
Optimistic Pessimistic
What is it like?
Big Small
Ripe Unripe
Dirty Clean
Bitter Sweeter
Difficult Easy
Cheap Expensive
Nice Rotten
Interesting Boring
Dry Wet
Old New
Wide Narrow
Deep Shallow
Dangerous Safe
Empty Full
Wimp Tough
Heavy Light
Hard Soft
Precious Worthless
Tidy Untidy
Large Small
High Low
SIZE : Large, Small, High, Low .
TEXTURE : Hard, Soft, Heavy, Light .
COLOUR S: Dark, Light, Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Purple, Black, White, Brown ,
Orange, Pink, Light-blue
PATTERN: Plain, Flowery, Striped ,Checked
SHAPE: Round, Oval, Square, Rectangular
MATERIAL: Wood, Metal, Plastic, Leather, Glass
When you want to give all descriptions, you may cite –size, color, shape, material and
pattern
DESCRIBE PEOPLE’S APPEARANCE
DIALOG: MANDY IS MISSING.
At Clifton police station. The telephone rings…..
Policeman: Clifton Police Station. Can I help you?
Mrs Ingrams: Yes. It’s about my daughter, Mandy. She went to school this morning
and she hasn’t arrived yet, and it’s eleven o’clock and …..
Policeman: Just a moment, Mrs…?
Mrs. Ingrams: Mrs. Ingrams. Joan Ingrams, 57Bath Road.
Policeman: Thank you. Now Mrs. Ingrams, what exactly is the matter?
Mrs. Ingrams: Well, Mandy –that’s my little daughter- left home this morning at about a
Quarter to nine. Then her teacher telephoned me about a quarter of an
Hour ago and asked if Mandy was ill. I said “ No. Why?” And then she
said “Well, Mandy has not come to school yet `so I said, I didn’t know
where she was. Then I decided to ring you.
Policeman : Quite right. Perhaps she went home to a friend? Have you asked your
neighbors?
Mrs. Ingrams: Yes, I have. I’ve rung all neighbors and they haven’t seen her, and their
children are all at school and…..
Policeman: I see. Now, let’s have a few details. How old is Mandy?
Mrs. Ingrams: She’s six.
Policeman: And what does she look like?
Mrs. Ingrams: She’s got fair hair, long fair hair with a ribbon in it –a red ribbon- er-
She’s got blue eyes.
Policeman: And what’s she wearing?
Mrs. Ingrams: She’s wearing a grey coat and a brown shoes, red tights –er- a green skirt and a red sweater .Yes that’s right.
Policeman: We’ll do our best to find her, Mrs. Ingrams. I expect she’s just playing
truant. Now you keep calm and we’ll telephone you as soon as we find her.
Mrs. Ingrams: Thank you. Goodbye.
Policeman: Goodbye, Mrs. Ingrams. And try not to worry.
ASK AND NARRATE PAST ACTIONS
USEFUL TERMS
Get up/got up, have /had, leave/left, give/gave, put/put, want/wanted, open/opened,
Come/came, ask/asked.
REPORT
POLICE REPORT MISSING PERSON
FROM WITNESS Mandy Ingrams
Date: 25/9/2006
Name of witness: Mrs. Ingrams
57th Bath Road, Bristol.
Relationship: Mother of missing child.
Mrs. Ingrams: I got up at 7:30. Had breakfast with family-husband and son, Mark, 4 years old.
Daughter Mandy got ready for school, put on grey coat, said it was teacher’s birthday,
Wanted to buy some flowers. Mrs. Ingrams gave her 20 pound. Mandy left house at 8:45. School is 5 minutes walk from house. Mrs. Ingrams has not seen her since then.
POLICE REPORT MISSING PERSON
FROM WITNESS Mandy Ingrams
Date: 25/9/2006
Name of witness: Mrs. Marjorie Hawks,
The sweet shop, central Parade, London Road, Bristol
Relationship: None.
Mr. H. owns a sweet shop, Central Parade. Opened the shop at 9: 00. A little girl wearing a grey coat came in. Red ribbon in hair, Girl had 20 pounds. Girl asked, ‘do you sell flowers?’
Mrs. H said, “No, I don’t. But there are some pretty wild flowers near the canal.” Girl said, “Thank you”
Left shop at 9:10
EXERCISE
1 Work in pairs. You are the policeman; your partner is Mrs. Ingrams. Use the notes in the police report to interview Mrs. Ingrams.
Ask questions like:
What time did you get up?
What did you do then?
Did your husband take Mandy to school?
What did Mandy do then?
Did she say anything before she left?
Did you give her any money?
When did Mandy leave the house?
How far away is the school?
Have you seen her since?
2 Work in pairs .You are the policeman, your partner is Mrs. Hawks. Use the notes in
the police report to interview Mrs. Hawkins.
Ask questions like:
What do you want?
What time did you open your shop this morning?
Did a little girl come into the shop?
What was she wearing?
How much money did she have?
What did she say?
What did you say?
Did she buy anything?
What time did she leave the shop?
UNIT SEVENTEEN
INVITE PEOPLE TO DO THINGS AND MAKE EXCUSES
THE INVITATIONS.
Would you like to……?
1. Go out for a meal? Go out for a walk? Go out for a drink? Go to the club?
Come to a party? Come and play cards? Come and meet my friends?
THE EXCUSES
Thanks very much. I’d love to, but I’m afraid…..
2. I’ve got a bad cold.
I’ve got a bad headache.
I’ve got a bad cough.
I’ve got a sore throat.
I’ve got to do some work.
I’ve to do my homework.
I wait for an important call.
I’d like to go home early.
I’d like to write some letters.
I ought to get my things ready for tomorrow.
DIALOG
Paul: Jane? It’s me, Paul, Am I ringing at a bad time again?
Jane: No, no. That’s all right. Is it something important?
Paul: No, not really. It’s just……well, some Ugandan friends of mine are here for a few
days and they wanted to go for a meal for this evening. I thought maybe you’d
like to come too.
Jane: Well, that does sound fun, but…….er…I am afraid, I’ve got a bad headache to
tell you the truth, and……
Paul: Oh, have you? I am sorry. Why don’t you take a couple of aspirins and lie down
for a bit? You’ll be all right in half an hour.
Jane: Yes, I know, but it’s not just the headache. I’m afraid. I really ought to do my washing this evening and I’ve got to write my notes too.
Paul: Oh, well, shall we come round for coffee later on instead?
Jane: Actually, I’d like to go to bed early to night for once?
Paul: Oh, all right some other time then.
Jane: Look, Paul, I’ll ring you at work some time tomorrow.
Paul: Don’t you remember? I’m leaving for Italy tomorrow.
Jane: Oh yes. Of course, so you are. I remember now.
Paul: Well, have a nice evening, Jane.
Jane: Wait a minute, Paul. I’ll ring you early tomorrow morning and…..
Paul: It’s o.k. Jane. I understand-perfectly. See you around.
EXERCISE
1. Work in pairs. Your partner invites you to do something, you make an excuse, choosing from (1. from Invitations) Like this:
A: Would you like to come to a party?
B: That’s very kind of you, but I’ve got a bad cold.
A: Oh, I’m sorry. Some other time then?
B: Yes, fine. But thanks for the invitation.
2. Work in pairs. This time make excuses from (2. from Excuses).
A: Would you like to go out for a meal?
B: That’s very kind of you, but I’m afraid I’ve got to do some work or
I’d like to go to bed early.
UNIT EIGHTEEN
ASK AND TALK ABOUT PLANS
RESPOND TO PLANS
DIALOG
Barbara: Gerry, I’m going to leave for the airport in half an hour. Can I have a word
with you first?
Gerry: Yes, sure. How long are you going to spend in Italy, by the way?
Barbara : Oh, just a week. I’m going to see some designers this time, so it will be quite
interesting. Now you will remember to check the bill every evening, won’t you?
Gerry: Yes, I will. Don’t worry.
Barbara: And you will not forget to lock all the doors when you leave?
Gerry: No, I won’t. Relax, Barbara.
Barbara: OK. Well, I must get ready. Oh, has Rod phoned this morning?
Gerry: No.
Barbara: Oh, oh. Well. Look at the weather. It’s going to rain again.
Gerry: What’s the weather like in Italy at this time of the year?
Barbara: They say it’s quite warm and sunny.
Gerry: Lucky you!
Barbara: Gerry, don’t forget I’m going to have a holiday. I’m going there to work!
Now, I think I ought to call a taxi….
USEFUL WORDS.
Where are you going to go? To America, Italy, Bujumbura, Kenya.
How are you going to travel? By (air) plane, by (sea) boat, by train, car.
Where are you going to stay? At hotel, guest house. Youth hostel, with friends.
How long are you going to stay there? A week. A fortnight. A month.
What are you going to do? See sights. Swim and lie on the beach. Visit friends.
Travel around the country, on business.
EXERCISE
WORK IN PAIRS
Imagine you are a couple of friends. You have 2000frcs between you to spend on your next summer holiday. Decide what you are going to do. Make notes.
REMIND PEOPLE TO DO THINGS. AGREE TO DO THINGS.
EXAMPLE: You’ll remember to check the bill, won’t you?
You will remember to lock all the doors, will you?
Yes, I will. Don’t worry.
No, I won’t. Don’t worry.
EXERCISE
Work in pairs. Remind your friend to do the things. Like this:
Lock front and back door.
You’ll remember to lock the front and back door, won’t you?
Yes, I will. Don’t worry.
And you won’t forget to turn off the light, will you?
No, I won’t. Don’t worry.
1) Don’t forget to lock your car doors!
2) Don’t forget to fasten your seat belt.
3) Don’t forget to check your passport before you go on holiday!
4) Close all windows.
5) Turn off electric fires and fridge.
UNIT NINETEEN
ASK PEOPLE TO DO THINGS IN DIFFERENT WAYS
Examples: Give me a lift to the station, John.
Can you give me a lift to the station, John?
Could you possibly give me a lift to the station, John?
ASK YOUR PARTNER TO GET THINGS
Could you get me the mayonnaise from the cupboard?
Yes, sure.
I am going to the market. Do you want anything?
Oh, yes. Could you get me some milk, please?
DESCRIBE EXACTLY WHERE THINGS ARE
In the cupboard: top shelf, middle shelf, bottom shelf, drawer
1) Examples.
a) Where’s the mayonnaise?
b) In the cupboard
a) Where exactly?
b) On the top shelf.
2) Examples.
a) Where is the rice?
b) In the cupboard?
a) Which one?
b) On the middle shelf.
3) Examples.
a) Where are the knives and forks?
b) In the drawer beside the cooker.
a) Which drawer?
b) The top one.
Exercise: Work in pairs. Ask and say exactly where things are. Knives, forks and spoons, kitchen knives, knives, forks and spoons, kitchen knives, wooden spoons, saucepans, plates, cups and glasses
ASK AND SAY WHAT YOU HAVE AND HAVEN’T GOT
Examples: Have we got any milk?
Yes, we’ve got lots of milk.
Have we got anything to eat?
We’ve got some beans.
What else have we got?
We’ve got some cheese.
What else?
Bread
What about tomatoes?
No, we haven’t got any tomatoes.
What about meat?
No, we haven’t got any meat?
What about chalk?
We have lots of boxes.
Have we got any books for reading?
Exercise 1 Look at the list. Ask and answer like this:
Have we got any ………………..?
Yes, we’ve got lots of ……………..
No, we haven’t.
Provisions
Meat, fish, pastry, fruit, ice cream, dairy produce, vegetables
Pastry – bread, jam
Vegetables – potatoes, tomatoes, onions
Dairy produce – milk, butter, cheese, eggs, yogurt, ice cream
ASK AND TALK ABOUT EXPERIENCES AND IMPRESSIONS
Have you ever been to Italy?
Yes, I have. I went there last summer, actually.
Did you enjoy it?
I thought it was marvelous!
Have you ever eaten snails?
Yes, once, when I went to a French restaurant.
What did you think of them?
Actually, I didn’t like them very much.
Have you ever been to ………………….?
Did you enjoy it?
Have you ever done any ……………………..? (camping, fishing)
Did you enjoy it?
How did you get on?
Have you ever tried…………..? eaten……………..? drunk……………….?
Did you like it?
What did you think of it?
MAKE AND RESPOND TO PARTING REMARKS
A B
I really must go now. Yes, I must go too.
Look! I must go now. Yes, I’m in bit of a hurry, too.
Heavens! Look that the time-
I must rush, I’m afraid.
Give my regards to Dalia. Yes, I will.
Give my love to your parents.
Look after yourself!
Have a nice time!
Enjoy yourself!
Be good!
Have a great day!
Come and see us some time. Thanks. I will
Don’t work too hard. No, I won’t.
Don’t forget to write.
Don’t drive too fast.
Don’t forget to phone me.
Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do! No, Don’t worry. I won’t
Have a nice weekend.
Have a lovely Christmas! Thanks, and the same to you.
Happy New Year! The same to you.
Thank you for your help. Not at all.
Thank you for calling. Don’t mention it.
Thank you for your gift. You’re welcome!
Thank you for your post card.
Bye! See you! Yes, I hope so, bye, bye.
Goodbye! It was nice to meet you. Yes, I hope we meet again sometime. Goodbye!
Bye, bye! Bye, bye!
Bye! And forget me not!
Bye! And don’t forget to send me a postcard!
Cheerio! And enjoy yourself tonight!
See you later!
See you next week! It’s my pleasure.
It’s been a pleasure meeting you.
UNIT TWENTY
GIVE APOLOGIES AND EXPLANATIONS-ACCEPT APOLOGIES
I apologize for Explanations You want to say
not doing my home work. I forget it’s all right
I did not have time that’s all right
I lost your book never mind
I had a headache it doesn’t matter
That’s no problem
Missing the train I overslept don’t worry
no need to worry
I couldn’t get taxi forget it
my watch was wrong
Not writing while I was away I was very busy
I lost the address
Not telephoning your friends my telephone was not charged
I’m awfully sorry………
Sorry for being late……
Please excuse me…….
Excuse me for being late…..
SOME EXPRESSIONS
I was wrong. I apologize
I apologize for having kept you waiting….
It’s him you should be apologizing to.
There’s no need to apologize.
I owe you an apology.
Will you accept this gift by way of an apology?
DIALOG
James: Hello, John! Welcome back! You look marvelous!
John: James! What a surprise! It’s lovely to see you again.
James: Sorry I did not call you before you left, but I didn’t have time, in fact….
John: Oh, that’s all right. Forget it!
James : Well, how was Italy?
John: Fun, but tiring. Milan was interesting. It’s bigger than I expected. Noisier and
dirtier, too.
James: And Florence? What did you think of Florence?
John: Well, I’ve never been there before. I thought it was beautiful. More beautiful than
Paris, in fact. Have you ever been to Italy?
James: No, never. I’d really like to go to Rome. Well, the car is in the park.
Is this all your luggage?
John: Yes, but the suitcase is very heavy.
James: John! What is in it? Stones.
John: No. Just twenty pairs of shoes! Oh it is nice to see you again, Rod!
EXERCISE
1 Work in pairs. Make apologies, choosing different explanations, to your partner. Your partner accepts your apology. Like this:
A: Sorry I did not do my homework, but I forgot.
B: Oh, that’s all right.
Role play.
Work in pairs.
1) Apologize and explain to your teacher why you did not come to classes last week.
2) Apologized and explain to your boss why you arrived half an hour late for work this morning.
3) Apologize and explain to your friend why you did not write or telephone him/her while you were in Texas.
UNIT TWENTY-ONE
MAKE COMPARISONS
FACTS ABOUT PLACES, PEOPLE, AND THINGS.
SIZE HEIGHT LENGTH TEMPERATURE
Big-bigger tall- taller long –longer hot-hotter
Large- larger high-higher wide-wider warm-warmer
Small-smaller short-shorter mild-milder
Cool-cooler
Cold-colder
OPINIONS ABOUT PLACES, PEOPLE AND THINGS
Dirty-dirtier lively-livelier beautiful-more beautiful
Clean-cleaner dull-duller interesting-more interesting
Noisy-noisier cheap-cheaper good - better
Ugly-uglier fast-faster depressing-more depressing
Bad-worse slow-slower expensive-more expensive
Exciting-more exciting
EXERCISE
EXAMPLE: Milan is bigger than I expected. Noisier and dirtier too.
I think Florence is more beautiful than Paris.
1. Compare the features of countries like this:
Chine/large/Japan. Chine is larger than Japan.
England/ small/France.
London/big/Rome .
Skyscrapers in New York/tall/ buildings in London.
The river Avon/ short/the Thames.
The Mississippi/long/the Nile
Mount Everest /high/Kebeknaise
UNIT TWENTY-TWO
TALKK ABOUT EVENTS IN PEOPLE’S LIVES
DIALOG
Mike: That was a beautiful performance, Laura. And welcome back to Bristol.
Laura: Thank you. Now, your questions. Oh, good, you’ve got release.
Mike: Yes .You were born here in Bristol, weren’t you, in 1995?
Laura: That’s right. I was born not far from this theatre, actually. But I grew up in the
suburbs.
Mike: And your parents?
Laura: They came from Ireland originally. My father was a customs officer at the docks.
Mike: Is he still there?
Laura: No, he died about three years ago.
Mike: Have you got any brothers or sisters?
Laura: No, I’m an only child.
Mike: Mmmm. And you went to university?
Laura: Yes, for three years. That’s where I wrote the song: The price of peace.
Mike: And got married!
Laura: Yes.
Mike: How long have you been singing professionally?
Laura: Oh, quite a long time! Actually, I’ve been singing professionally since
1978 when I recorded my first song.
Mike: And now you are a world famous star, a composer and a mother. How do you
manage to do it?
Laura: Do what?
Mike: Combine a career with a family?
Laura: Are you married, with a family, Mr. Sanders?
Mike: Yes, but …
Laura: Well, do you find it difficult to be a journalist and a father?
Mike: But…..
Laura: Think about it, Mr. Sanders. Good bye!
SOME USEFUL WORDS.
I was born in 1956.
He died three years ago.
I went to University for five years.
I have been singing professionally since 1978.
EXERCISE
1 Work in pairs. Ask and answer questions about Laura Dennison’ life, using the press release.
a) Use ‘ in with dates’, like this:
When did Laura go to university?
In1976.
When did she get married?
When did she win the folk song competition?
b) Use ‘ago’ with numbers of years; count back, like this:
When did Laura join the folk group? (If it is 1980) six years ago.
When did he leave the university?
When did she record her first song?
c) Use ‘for’ with numbers of years; count up, like this:
How long did Laura go to school for?
For 13 years.
How long did she go to university for?
How long has she been married?
d) Use ‘since’ with dates, like this:
How long has Laura been singing?
She has been singing since 1974.
How long has she been singing professionally?
How long has she been living in U.S.A.?
2 Work in pairs. Ask and answer these questions.
When did you first start school? When I was….or in….
When did you leave school ?.... ago or I haven’t left yet.
How long did you stay at school? For ….years.
How long have you been in your present home?
I have been living there for /since…
How long have you been studying at this center……?
For/since……
How long have you been learning English with your present teacher?
For/since….
How long have you been using this book?
For/since….
UNIT TWENTY-THREE
ASK AND TALK ABOUT PEOPLE’S BACK GROUND.
Where were you born? I was born in Rwanda.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Uganda.
Where did you go to school?
I went to Rwanda National University.
Where did you go after that? I went to Harvard University.
I went to work. I went abroad.
COMPLETE THIS CHART
Background: I was born in (place, country)
Early life: I grew up in….
I went to school at….for .... years.
Career: After studying at……(school) I left and went to (place of work, university, college) to work/ study.
Other information: I am an only child/I have got ……(brothers, sisters, etc)
EXAMPLE.
Laura Dennison, famous singer and star of the Top Twenty, was born in Bristol.
Her parents originally come from Ireland. Laura’s father was a customs officer in Bristol docks. Unfortunately, he died a few days ago.
UNIT TWENTY-FOUR
WOMEN’S CLOTHING.
DIALOG
N=NICOLE S=SYLVIE V=SHOP ASSISTANT
DIALOG
N: I saw a brown suit in the window. Can I try it?
V: Certainly, madam. What is your size?
N: Forty or forty-two. It depends on the cut.
V: It’d be better to put on forty-two, it’s a small cut.
N: (coming out of fitting room) what do you think of it? Aren’t the shoulders a bit wide?
S: No, it fits well. The cut is good, but the skirt is a bit long. They’re being worn above
the knee this year.
V: The length is not a problem, it’s just a matter of taking the hem. We can alter it, if you
like.
S: It’s a classic color and it goes with everything. You can wear it with green, black
N: That’s true, but I am in two minds. I t looks a bit too smart, and I need something for
all occasions. What do you think of that little printed dress over there? It’s rather
nice. Have you got my size?
V: It’s a pattern that only comes in one size. It’s easy to wear, and stylish. It’s selling
very well, we get nothing but praise for it. It’s also very practical, it’s
machine-washable and there’s no ironing.
S: It’s the eighth wonder of the world! If you do not take it, I’ll buy it. I like it a lot,
I am fond of loose-fitting dresses.
N: You take it, it’s just your style! I can’t make up my mind about that suit.
I’ll think it over and come back.
USEFUL SENTENCES
1) Do you know a good dressmaker?
2) This shop sells a great many makes of ready-to-wear clothes.
3) I bought a bag that matches my new coat.
4 This skirt has a flaw in it. Can you change it?
5) I am allergic to synthetic fibers.
6) They dressed up to the nines for that dinner party,
7) This pastel shade is very fashionable.
8) Designs by the great couturiers cost the earth.
9) Jeans always shrink a little in the wash.
10) Would you prefer boots with flat heels or high heels?
11) I am looking for a comfortable coat I can wear everywhere.
12) Dry clean only.
VOCABULARY
Tights Neck line Lining Scarf Thread Hip
Sleeve Briefs Panties Undergarment Bra fabric Waist
See-through.
Second dialog
A:
May I help you?
C:
Yes, I'm looking for a pair of trousers.
A:
What colour would you like?
C:
Black.
A:
And what size are you?
C:
I'm not sure. Can you measure me?
A:
[measures customer] You're 34" waist. How about these?
C:
What material are they?
A:
Wool.
C:
Have you got anything in cotton?
A:
Yes, these.
C:
Can I try them on?
A:
Of course. The fitting room's over there.
C:
[tries trousers] They're a little long. Have you got anything shorter?
A:
These are shorter.
C:
I'll take them.
MEN’S CLOTHING
B=Bernard Y=Yves C=Cecile
DIALOG
B: You’ve got fantastic shoes! They look very comfortable. Are they Suede? Where did
you buy them?
Y: Just opposite my place. I do not rack my brains; I always go to the same shop.
They’ve got an amazingly wide choice and I’ve known them for ages.
B: Actually I happen to need some smart shoes. I’ve been invited to a wedding next
Monday and I’ve got nothing to wear as if my wife would say!
Y: Then I suggest you go to that shop. They also sell belts, socks…….
B: This won’t cost ‘an arm and a leg’, I hope. I don’t want to spend a fortune.
Y: Not at all! Where value for money is concerned, they can’t be beaten.
B: I’ll make a note of the address of the shop; it’ll save me looking around. I hate window-shopping for hours to look for a pair of moccasins or a shirt.
Y: By the way, I’ve got a good address for shirts and ties. You’d have a hard job finding a better one.
B: Gosh, are you collecting them or something? No wonder you’re always so smart. What would you advise me to wear for this ceremony? A suit?
Y: If you like………. Unless you find a nice blazer, they’re not as formal, and they can be worn anytime, even with a pair of jeans.
C: You’re not still talking about clothes, are you?
B: You’re a fine one to talk! You’re always wearing the latest fashion!
USEFUL PHRASES
I wear size 44 shoes.
These shoes hurt my feet. Would you have the next size up?
This jacket is tight in the shoulders.
He has his suits custom-made by a tailor.
These trousers are tight round the waist.
Have you got shirts with blue and white stripes?
For a shirt of this design you need cufflinks.
I found a nice tweed jacket on sale.
These trousers will not crease.
My boss is always impeccably dressed.
You are dressed up to the nines today.
The shop is slashing its prices.
This garment is a good value for the money.
VOCABULARY
Button
To button up
Polo neck
Shoemender
Zip (zipper)
Waistcoat
Raincoat
Shoelace
Vest
Overcoat
Sports shirt
Underpants
Tracksuit
HOUSEHOLD PROBLEMS – DIALOGUE
B: Bruno F: Fabienne P: plumber
B: Hello, is that Mr. Blanchard? Bruno Mercier here.
P: You again! What’s the matter?
B: Can you come over right away? There’s a leak in my flat; it’s coming from the bathroom.
P: Is there a lot of water?
B: Quite a lot. There’s water everywhere, even in the entrance.
P: Right, then I’ll send a workman over.
B: Be quick or else I’ll have to call the fire brigade.
P: Don’t worry. In ten minutes there’ll be someone at your place. Remind me which floor it’s on.
B: The seventh, the door on the right.
Bruno calls Fabienne to cancel their arrangement.
B: I’m sorry, but something’s happened. I won’t be able to go out with you. I’m expecting the plumber at any minute. My flat is flooded.
F: Really, it never rains but it pours! The day before yesterday, your fridge broke down, yesterday your TV set wasn’t working.
B: You’re telling me! I’ve got nothing but problems at the moment. I even nearly got stuck in the lift this morning. It was a narrow escape!
F: Everybody goes through patches like that, when nothing goes right. Take me, for instance: last week I had three parking fines in one day. It didn’t exactly put me in a good mood, I can tell you.
B: Oh, no! Fabienne, I must hang up, the carpet’s soaked. I’ll have to mop it up or else there’ll be a disaster! It might cause damage in the flat below me.
USEFUL PHRASES
1) I turned the switch off the fuses blew.
2) Where are the fuses?
3) The sink is blocked.
4) I’ve got a few odd jobs to do. Can you lend me your drill?
5) The nails and screws are in the toolbox.
6) The dishwasher isn’t working anymore. Perhaps there’s a faulty contact.
7) The lightbulb is burnt out. It must be replaced.
8) We’ve got no power. Have you got candles and matches?
9) The pipes have burst in the frost.
10) I am going to have a central heating put into my house in the county.
11) Give a quote for the repairs.
12) Send your insurance company a claim for the water damage.
VOCABULARY
The power plug
To plug
Water flow
Electric meter
Lightning
Crack
A switch
Automatic voltage regulator
To install
Lock
Locksmith
Painter
Bulb
Lamp
UNIT TWENTY-FIVE
IN HOTEL
DIALOG
Woman: What a charming place? Why don’t we stay here for a few days?
Man: Good idea! The guidebook mentions several hotels. There’s a four star
with a park, a swimming pool….
Woman: Do you really think we can afford a luxury hotel?
Man: I was only joking! Let’s look for something more straightforward…here we are,
I’ve found just what we need: 'Hotel Miramar, quite, comfortable, view of the sea’.
Let’s hope it isn’t full!
At the reception desk.
Man: Good evening. Have you got any rooms?
Receptionist: For one night?
Man: No, we intend to stay for two or three days.
Receptionist: For how many people?
Woman: A couple and two children. We’d like two adjoining rooms; it’d be more
convenient.
Receptionist: I’ve still got a room with a double bed and one two beds. One has a bath
and the other has a shower, but there aren’t o the same floor.
Woman: That’s a bit of a nuisance, but never mind, we’ll take them all the same.
Have really got nothing else?
Receptionist: I’m sorry, everything is booked up. This is the high season, you know.
You should have booked.
Man: Is breakfast included?
Receptionist: Yes. You can also have half or full board if you stay for more than two
days. You can see later on. Here are your keys, number 12 and13.
Enjoy your stay.
UNIT TWENTY-SIX
AT THE BANK
DIALOG 1
Peter: Good morning. I’d like to take some money.
John: How much do you want to withdraw?
Peter: It depends. How much is there on my account? I didn’t get my last bank
statement.
John: Your account number, please………here’s your balance.
Peter: When did the last transfer come through?
John: Just a moment…on the 15th of October.
Peter: (To Paul) We’d better use your account.
Paul: I hardly have any checks left; have you got my new checkbook?
John: Yes, here it is. Date it and sign here, please.
Peter: We’d like to order some traveler’s checks.
John: Yes, fill in this form. In the meantime, I’ll attend to the next person.
Can I help you sir?
Mike: I’d like to change four thousand lira. What’s the exchange rate?
John: Two hundred lira to the franc. Shall I give you five hundred-francs, or smaller?
Mike: Hundred franc notes, if possible.
John: Certainly, here you are. One thousand…..and two hundred.
Mike: Could you give me change for a hundred francs in ten franc coins?
John: Of course, sir, here you are.
DIALOG 2
BANK ACCOUNTS
Margaret is asking Nancy about bank accountants.
Margaret: I received a check from home yesterday. Where can I cash it?
Nancy: Do you have a bank account?
Margaret: No, I don’t. Should I open one?
Nancy: Yes, you should. Most banks won’t cash checks for people without accounts.
Margaret: O.K. What should I do?
Nancy: Do you want a savings account or a checking account?
Margaret: A checking account, I guess. It’s more convenient. Which bank should
I go to?
Nancy: Well, it depends. You want a bank near you. You want also a bank with a small
charge. Some banks give the checks free with a minimum balance of 300 or500
dollars. Others charge a little for the checks and don’t require a minimum
balance.
Margaret: Inexpensive checks no charges, that’s for me. I’ll never be able to keep 300
dollars in the bank.
Nancy: O.K. Go to the bank on the corner of Main and Forbes. Tell them what you need.
A bank official will help you fill out the forms.
Margaret: When will I get the checks?
Nancy: They’ll give you some checks right away. You can use them until your personal
checks are read.
Margaret: Will the checks have my name on them?
Nancy: Yes, of course.
Margaret: How will I know how much money I have? I’ll never remember from month
to month.
Nancy: For one thing, you write down each check and deposit in your checkbook.
And then the bank will send you a statement with canceled checks once a moth.
You balance your checkbook and compare it with the statement.
Margaret: What if they’re different?
Nancy: Then you figure it out again. If it doesn’t balance, you call the bank and ask them.
Margaret: Should I keep the canceled checks?
Nancy: Oh, yes! They’re record of payment and proof if there is any question.
Margaret: Thanks a lot, Nancy. That’s a big help.
Nancy: That’s O.K. Margaret.
COMPREHENSION QUESTIONS.
1) When did Margaret receive a check?
2) Does she have a bank account?
3) Should she open one? Why?
4) What kinds of bank accounts are available?
5) What kind does Margaret want? Why?
6) What should you consider when you choose a bank?
7) Describe three possible types of checking accounts?
8) Where is the bank?
9) Who will help Margaret at the bank?
10) When will she get the checks?
11) Will the checks have her name on them?
12) How will she know how much money she has?
13) What is a bank statement?
14) What is a canceled check?
15) Should she keep the canceled checks? Why?
16) How do you balance a bank statement?
DIALOOG 3
BILLS.
On the way to a restaurant for a snack, Nancy is complaining to Margaret about the synonymous terms for money in English.
Nancy: I’ll never understand this crazy language. You can’t be satisfied with one word.
There are always dozens for the same idea.
Margaret: What’s bothering you now, Nancy? You didn’t get into trouble, did you?
Nancy: No, I didn’t. It’s this confusing money system, and all the words for money.
The university sends me an invoice; the waitress brings me a check; the doctor
gives me a bill, and the lawyer charges a fee. I didn’t shut my checkbook all
weekend.
Margaret: Are you upset by the words or by the cost of living in this country?
Nancy: The cost of living, I guess. I put a lot of money in the bank and I was going
myself to buy a car this month Now, I don’t have money. But, Margaret, do me
a favor, will you, and explain some of the differences in these terms?
Margaret: Sure, Nancy, but I have to make a phone call. Order me a cup of coffee, will
you? I’ll be back. (Margaret soon returns). How much was the coffee?
Fifty cents?
Nancy: Never mind, it’s on me.
Margaret: Thanks, Nancy. That’s very nice. Now where were we? Oh, yes, the words for
money…… well, there are two categories. One is the actual amount you have
To pay—fee, charge, price, and other is the written statement-check, bill,
invoice.
Nancy: That’s easy enough, but how can I know the right context? How is a bill
different from an invoice?
Margaret: They’re about the same, really. Technically, a bill is a statement of the amount
owed, an invoice is a bill with the individual items listed, but people usually
think of an invoice as a business term.
Nancy: I see, I guess. There are other terms, though- toll and fare, for instance.
Margaret: A fare is the amount for some form of transportation- a bus fare, a taxi fare.
A toll is the charge for using the public facility-a toll road, a toll bridge.
The telephone company also charges toll calls, but that may be because they
are a public company.
Nancy: It’s pretty confusing. You have to admit.
Margaret: I guess you are right. I never thought about it.
Opening an account
A:
Good morning, can I help you?
B:
Yes, I'd like to open a deposit account.
A:
Certainly Sir. Would you like a Silver or a Gold account?
B:
What's the difference?
A:
You can open a Silver account with just £5. The account comes with a cash card so you can withdraw your money at any time. The Silver account currently pays 5% interest. For the Gold account you need a minimum of £500, and you have to give 14 days notice to withdraw money. The interest rate is 6.5%.
B:
I'll go for the Silver account.
A:
How much would you like to deposit?
B:
£500
A:
And we'll need two proofs of ID; telephone bill, driving licence, credit card statement etc.
B:
I'm sorry, I don't have any of those on me. I'll come back tomorrow.
Applying for a mortgage
C:
Good morning, I'm the manager, how can I help you?
D:
We'd like to apply for a mortgage.
C:
Have you found a property you're interested in?
D:
Yes we have.
C:
How much would you like to borrow?
D:
Well, the property is £75,000, but we have a deposit of £25,000
C:
So you need a £50,000 loan. Do you have an account with this bank?
D:
Yes, we both have accounts here. I've had my account for over fifteen years.
C:
How much do you both earn?
D:
I earn £15,000 pa and my wife earns £12,500.
C:
That's fine. Now Would you like to complete this form.........
UNIT TWENTY-SEVEN
BANK TERMS
Account bank account stopped or frozen account
Current account exchange rate bank notes
Currency credit card bank statement
To withdraw withdrawal credit balance
Checkbook transfer debit balance
Cash dispenser form cash/ in cash
Deposit form stub to save
Shares to bankrupt a bankrupt
Coupons accountancy accountant
Chartered accountant or certified public accountant
Account card account director account executive
Account holder account entry sheet or form
Account ledger accounts software cash box
Cash desk
Check out
Pat at the cash or desk or at the till
Cashbook
Cash register
Cashier or teller
Check out operator
Supplier
Cash received
Cash payments
Counterfoil, stub
Entry
Outstanding (account, checks, debts)
Owner’s capital account
Liabilities account
Income account or revenue account
Profit and loss account
Interim profit and loss statement
Outstanding account
Inventory account or bourse
Forward account
Debtor/ creditor
Account manager
Sales manager
Assets &liabilities
Auction sale
Building society
Bulk cash flow
Debtor
Deposit
Discount
Dud check
To forge money
Hire purchase or leasing
Loan
Loss
Money supply
Order
Overdraft
Overheads
To pay back
Payee
Profit
Refund
Reimburse
To run into debt
To stop a check
Terms of delivery
Terms of payment
Bank lending
Bank loan
Bank money
Bank notification
Bank overdraft
Bank references
Bank selling rate
Bank shares
Bank sot code
Bank transactions
Bank transfer
To bank
Bank balance
Bankbook
Bankcard
Bank charges
Bank clerk
Banking
Electronic bank
Bank hours
Bank law
Bank secrecy
Bank services
Bank terms
Bank profession
Bank robber
Bankroll
To go bankrupt
To be bankrupt
To declare someone bankrupt
Bank manager
Bank accounting
Bank advice note
Bank base rate
Bank borrowings
Bank buying rate
Bank check
Bank commission
Bank credit
Bank details
Bank discount rate
Bank draft
Bank guarantee
Bank interest
Balance your checkbook
Canceled check
Close an account
Minimum balance
Open account
Overdraw an account
Savings account service charge
T o make a deposit
To make a withdrawal
Credit
To be in credit
My account is still in credit
To give someone a credit
To get bank into credit
To sell on credit
To live on credit
To enter a sum to someone’s credit
Credit advice
Credit balance/ account in credit
To credit line or line of credit
Credit account
Credit agency
Credit bank
Credit broker
Credit card
Credit machine
Credit reader
Credit terminal
Credit insurance
Credit note
Creditor
Credit rating
Credit risk
Creditworthiness
Check
Will you take a check?
Check without cover
Check number
Payment on account
To settle one’s account
Account book
To dismiss an employee
Charge account
Assets account
Operational cost accounts
Suspense account
Escrow or frozen or blocked account
Central account
Expense account
Giro account
Customer account
Account payable (book keeping)
Account receivable (book keeping)
Account in debit or debit balance
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