Peter: Hi, Lucy! You weren’t at school today.What is the matter? I was worried about you.

Lucy: Hi, Peter. It’s nothing serious, actually. I just felt a bit sick in the morning, so my mom let me stay at home.

Peter: You poor thing! And are you feeling better now?

Lucy: Yeah, much better, thank you. I guess it must have been the pizza that I ate yesterday. That was the reason for my bad stomachache. I had too much. But now, yeah, I feel all right. I think I won’t have to miss any more lessons this week.

Peter: But you haven’t been to the doctor’soffice, have you? Won’t you have problems at school because you missed classes? When I was ill last month, I brought a medical certificate to school.

Lucy: Well, my mom called our class teacher, so I don’t think there will be any problems. Besides we don’t have many lessons on Wednesdays. How was Geography, by the way? Did you take a test?

Peter: Oh, no, we didn’t, but we revised the material for the test. The teacher asked several people to do exercises with the map of the UK at the blackboard, and then we had a sort of contest in groups where we had to find different mountains, rivers and lakes   — the quicker the better, that was fun! And we also checked our homework and asked the teacher questions ifwe were not sure about the answers. You know, I feel well-⁠prepared for tomorrow’s test now.

Lucy: Wait a second! Are we going to take the test tomorrow? I can’t believe it!

Peter: Yes, our teacher said that we are starting a new topic next week, so we have to finish this one tomorrow. Do you need any help with geography?

Lucy: Uh, if you can lend me your exercise-⁠book with notes and checked homework, that would save me hours.

Peter: I am afraid I can’t give you my exercise-⁠book right now because I have to revise the material for the test myself. But if you call me in two hours, we could probably study for the test together.

Lucy: Sounds like a great idea. And thanks somuch for offering to help. It’s so nice to have a friend like you.

Peter: No problem. See you later then. Bye for now.

Lucy: Bye, Peter.

Todd: Hey, Jeff, this is a very nice room.

Jeff: Hmm. It’s comfortable and cozy. It’s in Japanese style.

Todd: I like it. It’s got the tatami mat, and some beautiful vases. Oh, you have a pretty small kitchen. Do you live alone?

Jeff: Right now I have a friend of mine staying with me. His name is Mark. He’s my childhood friend.

Todd: Oh, really, sort of a room-⁠mate.

Jeff: Sort of a room-⁠mate, yes. Short term, he’s staying with me short-⁠term, so yes, a room-⁠mate.

Todd: OK, how’s that going?

Jeff: Ah, I don’t like it.

Todd: Why?

Jeff: He’s lazy. He’s messy. He doesn’t exercise and eats junk food. And well, you know, Mark contributes nothing to the household budget. He’s so careless.

Todd: Oh, so he lives here and he doesn’t cover his living expenses.

Jeff: Well, yeah. But what annoys me most is that he’s lazy, and he doesn’t do much all day.

Todd: That’s got to be pretty irritating.

Jeff: He’s a great fellow. He’s a good friend of mine, but, yeah, he’s a disgusting slob, I try to encourage him to do a few things but he’s a tough one. He doesn’t want to do anything.

Todd: Are you going to tell him he has to move out?

Jeff: Ah, no, he’s a smart man. He knows the deal. He knows what’s going on, and I think he’s, yeah, I would never ask him to move out because I don’t mind having him here but I’m just going to try to whip him into shape.

Todd: Oh, so you’re just going to try to change him so he becomes a better roommate?

Jeff: I’m going to try to, yeah, try to get him a better schedule, a better schedule (yeah) like exercise and eating right and smoking less and watching TV less.

Todd: Well, what is his schedule?

Jeff: Ah, his schedule is, he’s like a night owl, when he goes to bed I go to work. He stays up most of the night watching TV, and then he sleeps most of the day recovering, and then when he gets up he has a headache. He’s a bit sluggish and slow. It’s not a healthy option. Actually, I would like him to take up some kind of sport or sports games.

Todd: Yeah, but it doesn’t sound like it’s going to happen. Good luck.

Jeff: Thanks. I’ll probably need it.

Speaker one: So, Lisa, I see your suitcase's out, you are going on a trip.

Lisa: I'm going to Taiwan on a business trip.

Speaker one: A business trip? How do you feel about taking business trips?

Lisa: I love getting out of London for, you know, 3 or 4 days, and staying at a nice hotel somewhere in Europe or America, and taking a flight somewhere.

Speaker one: So you like to travel?

Lisa: I love travelling!

Speaker one: You don't mind staying in different hotels and travelling by planes all the time? Don't you get bored?

Lisa: No, never. I mean, I don't always like the whole process of checking in at the airport because it takes a lot of time, but somehow, I've got used to queueing and stay calm. Then there's waiting for the plane. It's so long and tiring. I always feel bored, but as soon as I am in the plane and the doors close, I love it. No one can contact me, I can't contact anyone else, there are free movies playing and the food comes. It's wonderful!

Speaker one: So it seems you like living in a bubble. It's like a mini-⁠vacation.

Lisa: Well, when I go on business trips, my working day is up to 14 hours. In terms of my workload, it's a lot busier than when I'm at home, but somehow it does feel like a mini-⁠vacation. I stay in nice hotels, I get to take taxis everywhere, which I love to do, you know, I eat at great restaurants and meet some great people and do some important things. So yeah, I really do love the whole aspect of a business traveller's life.

Speaker one: So what do you do to try to avoid being bored when you're waiting to board the plane?

Lisa: Well, the first thing I do is I never get to the airport too early. As I'm a frequent flier, I check in and then I, unfortunately, go to the duty-⁠free shop. I say "unfortunately", cause it's unfortunate for my credit card, nit really unfortunate for me. I go to the duty-⁠free shop, normally I buy some perfume or cosmetics, sometimes I go to the business lounge, where there are free drinks and food, and if I do get to the airport a couple of hours earlier, I do some urgent work

Speaker one: I see. Sounds like an exciting lifestyle.

Lisa: It's fun! I wouldn't give it up for anything else.

Interviewer: So Mike, you mentioned your family, do you have a big family?

Mike: No, I have a fairly small family, actually, including me there are only four people in my family.

Int: So it’s your mother, your father, you...

Mike: And my sister.

Int: Oh, and your sister. OK, is your sister younger or older than you?

Mike: She’s younger. She’s just started university actually.

Int: OK, that’s nice. So where does your family live right now?

Mike: Ah, my mother and my father live in Victoria in Canada and my sister is on the other side of Canada in Montreal in Quebec and I live in the capital.

Int: Well, tell me about your father. What’s your father like?

Mike: My father is pretty much the most interesting person I know. He tells different kinds of stories about his childhood, and his growing up.

Int: Did he grow up in Canada?

Mike: No, he grew up in Liverpool, in England.

Int: OK, nice, and what does your father do?

Mike: Ah, he was a pilot until five years ago. It was kind of tragic, he had a heart attack and he wasn’t allowed to fly anymore.

Int: Oh, I'm sorry.

Mike: He’s fine now, yeah.

Int: OK, what about your mother? Does she work?

Mike: No, she doesn’t. She used to work. They both worked for Cathay Pacific airline. My mother was a stewardess and my father was a pilot. She was first introduced to him as a new member of the crew when they flew together to Osaka.

Int: Oh, what a story. OK and what about your sister? You said that she’s a student.

Mike: She’s a student. She’s in her first year in McGill University which is in Quebec. I haven’t spoken to her lately so I don’t know how she’s doing.

Int: So you and your sister, are you similar or quite different?

Mike: Oh, we are definitely quite different.

Int: How so?

Mike: I was a rebellious type. I pretty much laid the foundation for my sister to get all the freedoms that she has  — Mum and Dad treat her differently now. But she doesn’t appreciate any of those things. Another way that we’re different is that she’s really into arts and drawing and painting and making music whereas I’m more into the technical side of things, like computer making, fixing cars.

Int: So it sounds like you are quite different. Well, maybe she’ll listen to this and she’ll appreciate you more.

Mike: I hope so.

John: I'm sorry, what was your name again?

Ruth: My name is Ruth Archibald.

John: OK, Ruth, are you from Ireland?

Ruth: Yes, I am.

John: I’ve noticed your slight Irish accent.

Ruth: Really? I thought I lost my Irish accent after moving south, from Ireland to Spain.

John: What was it like going from Ireland to Spain?

Ruth: Ah, it was a depressing change I guess. I had longterm friends back home, you know, friends from school, and there were some boys and girls I’ve known since I was born. I needed to make new friends and to find a place to hang out. But it’s OK now.

John: I’ve never been to Ireland. What’s famous about Ireland that you can tell me about?

Ruth: Probably the most famous things are Guinness and Irish clog-⁠dance  — dancing in wooden shoes.

John: Do you dance in wooden shoes?

Ruth: Unfortunately not. I think only a few people can do this.

John: I’ve heard that people’s manners are pretty rough and ready in Ireland. Is that true?

Ruth: No, I don’t think so. I think it depends on where you go in Ireland. In the capital, yes, maybe people are a bit less polite, but in the countryside they’re very warm and friendly.

John: OK, so if I went to a bar or a disco in Ireland, would there be any risk of getting into trouble?

Ruth: I don’t think so. No. No. It’s really safe. You don’t really think that all Irish people are rude and short-⁠tempered.

John: Oh, no. No.... And where exactly are you from?

Ruth: I’m from a place called Bray, which is maybe an hour’s drive from the capital, Dublin but far away from the main industrial centres. It’s clean and calm.

John: What is the geography like?

Ruth: It’s pretty flat. There are some hills but none of them are very high and the area around the city has been intensively cultivated  — there’s a lot of farming, particularly beef and dairy products and also sheep. There are lots of sheep.

John: When are you going back?

Ruth: I’ve just been there. I went back in December for three weeks, so at the moment I have no plans to go home in the near future, but maybe sometime in September I’ll go again.

John: Maybe I’ll go and visit it sometime.

Ruth: Definitely. It’s really good. It’s a really nice place to visit.

John: Tini, you’re a student, aren’t you?

Tini: Yeah, I am.

John: Do you like to study? Do you like your student life?

Tini: Of course. You know, I like studying although I’m not that much of a bookworm, like some of my friends who can’t imagine their lives without reading, but yes, I like studying. I like spending time with my friends, and I just like my student life.

John: Now, soon, you’re going to graduate, correct?

Tini: Yes, fortunately or unfortunately, yes.

John: Well, why would you say fortunately?

Tini: Fortunately in the sense that, you know, it’s about time to get out into the real world and, you know, earn some money. But unfortunately in the sense that all of these precious memories, like you are putting them all behind.

John: Yeah, soon they are going to be over.

Tini: Right, and then you have more problems and responsibilities as soon as you step into the real world, which is understandable. I don’t mind this but no more spring vacation, no more summer vacation, this is tough.

John: Actually, that’s why I’m a teacher. People always ask me, why are you a teacher, John? And I say because of the time off. You get so much time off, and you don’t have to work a 9–5 schedule.

Tini: Yes, that is a very smart choice, I think.

John: Yeah, but you make no money.

Tini: Well, but you know you can be fresher and that’ll keep you young forever.

John: I don’t know about young forever but it does... you do feel energetic when you’re a teacher. I do agree. Well, you know, you can also become a teacher.

Tini: Well, actually, I’ve given it a bit of thought but right now I’m really into the banking industry.

John: Banking?

Tini: Yeah, the financial services industry, and then probably I might like to give it a go.

John: That’s going to be very stressful.

Tini: It is, but you know, I pretty much like the fast- paced lifestyle and I’m quite quick-⁠thinking and well-⁠organ- ised.

John: Good luck with banking then, you keep on with it.

Tini: Thank you. It’s going to be really tough, I know.

Jane: Hello, Peter! What are you doing here in the library? I often come to the reading room but I have never seen you here before!

Peter: Hello, Jane. That’s right  — you could not have possibly seen me here. I come round to change my books or look through some journals now and then during the term time, but that is it. The end of the term is different, of course.

Jane: Why so?

Peter: Well, you know, the exams are coming and I am getting a bit nervous.

Jane: Have you missed many classes then?

Peter: Not many, really, but the fact is that I did just the bare minimum even for my major! There is a lot of information which went over my head completely. My group mates have lent me their notes but they are of very little use. They are really brief, as a rule, so I cannot make out a single thing of them!

Jane: So, you have missed not classes, but opportunities if I can put it this way.

Peter: I guess you can. Do you think I will be able to catch up with the rest of the group? I doubt it. I have been using my computer much to put all the information in proper schemes and tables but that does not seem to be helping much.

Jane: It is totally up to you! If you are determined to succeed, you will have to spend days and nights with books and your computer.

Peter: What worries me is the language course. It seems totally impossible!

Jane: Yes, that will be the most difficult one for you. You simply cannot expect to take in all the words and grammar rules in just a few nights.

Peter: Do you think I will fail it then?

Jane: Peter, be more optimistic! If the teacher sees you have tried to do at least something, she will appreciate it, I am sure.

Peter: Thank you, Jane; you are such a good friend! How about you? Are you ready for your exams? I bet you are!

Jane: Actually, I am not so sure about Literature. I think I am on the teacher’s blacklist for not meeting deadlines with some of the essays.

Peter: You will pass, do not worry!

Jane: Well, let us hope for the best!

Emily: When I finished school I went to university, Melbourne University, and studied science. I then gained my university degree and after that I worked in a heart disease research institute. At that time I decided to start my career in medicine.

David: Did you work in Melbourne?

Emily: Yes, in Melbourne. So I worked for a year, a bit over a year on different patient recovery programs. Then I wanted to have a break so I went travelling and I travelled through Western Europe and ended up in London and I worked at the hospital in an immunology lab and that was more diagnostic work. It was quite interesting. And after that I moved to Finland.

David: It sounds great!

Emily: And I did my doctor’s dissertation there.

David: I’m sorry for interrupting, I am just curious ... was it in English?

Emily: Yes, every student who is doing their dissertation, they have to write their works in English. And the seminars are given in English as well.

David: So you were in Finland for about five years. Do you speak Finnish?

Emily: Not very well. I can understand a bit, but it is quite a difficult language and because English was my mother tongue they wanted to practice their English and preferred to speak English with me. But yeah I did take lessons and try to learn it... and that was all-

David: I understand. I’ve had a similar experience with learning French. My frequent business trips to France didn’t help me much in language learning  — some basic skills only. I wish I could take time to start regular lessons.

Emily: Probably I needed more lessons in Finnish too. Anyway I decided to move back to Melbourne so I took the trans-⁠Siberian train.

David: Incredible!

Emily: Once I got back to Melbourne I started my post-⁠doctoral research which was in a different field from heart problems, actually in the field of our immune system.

David: Well, it is quite a different direction. What influenced you most?

Emily: I think it was my previous working experience in London and my colleagues at the lab who encouraged me greatly to start this. So that was three years and that was in Melbourne. Then I just published the work and decided to travel.

Jane: Hello, Peter! What are you doing here in the library? I often come to the reading room but I have never seen you here before!

Peter: Hello, Jane. That’s right  — you could not have possibly seen me here.

I come round to change my books or look through some journals now and then during the term time, but that is it. The end of the term is different, of course.

Jane: Why so?

Peter: Well, you know, the exams are coming and I am getting a bit nervous.

Jane: Have you missed many classes then?

Peter: Not many, really, but the fact is that I did just the bare minimum even for my major! There is a lot of information which went over my head completely. My group mates have lent me their notes but they are of very little use. They are really brief, as a rule, so I cannot make out a single thing of them!

Jane: So, you have missed not classes, but opportunities if I can put it this way.

Peter: I guess you can. Do you think I will be able to catch up with the rest of the group? I doubt it. I have been using my computer much to put all the information in proper schemes and tables but that does not seem to be helping much.

Jane: It is totally up to you! If you are determined to succeed, you will have to spend days and nights with books and your computer.

Peter: What worries me is the language course. It seems totally impossible!

Jane: Yes, that will be the most difficult one for you. You simply cannot expect to take in all the words and grammar rules in just a few nights.

Peter: Do you think I will fail it then?

Jane: Peter, be more optimistic! If the teacher sees you have tried to do at least something, she will appreciate it, I am sure.

Peter: Thank you, Jane; you are such a good friend! How about you? Are you ready for your exams? I bet you are!

Jane: Actually, I am not so sure about Literature. I think I am on the teacher’s blacklist for not meeting deadlines with some of the essays.

Peter: You will pass, do not worry!

Jane: Well, let us hope for the best!

Kate: Hi Jerry. The school year is almost over. Do you have any plans for the summer holiday?

Jerry: I’m planning on sleeping all day, every day!

Kate: Oh, come on Jerry, you must be joking.

Jerry: Yeah, I’m just pulling your leg. Actually, I’m going to travel to Luxor in Egypt.

Kate: Really? Why would you go to Luxor but not to the Red Sea resorts? They’re much more popular tourist sites.

Jerry: Exactly! They are very popular, so they’ll be too crowded. What I need is peace and comfort. I enjoyed my last year trip to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, but there were so many tourists there. I think it spoiled the atmosphere a bit.

Kate: I’m sure Luxor won’t be so crowded. But won’t it be too hot in the summer?

Jerry: I’ll bear anything for the sake of the views of this ancient Egyptian city.

And I rely on air conditioning inside  — the hotel promises it works perfectly there.

Kate: Well, that sounds good. I wouldn’t mind going there myself then. Still,

I wonder ... is there anything worth seeing in Luxor?

Jerry: Sure! For one thing, there’s the unique scenery of the city built directly on the Nile. I’m sure you’ve heard of Luxor Temple. There are also the Egyptian Pyramids which are said to be spectacular. They are a major tourist attraction, aren’t they?

Kate: Of course, I have heard of the Pyramids, but won’t you get bored just

looking at them?

Jerry: Come on Kate, there’s lots of things to do. I can take a river cruise on the Nile, and I will visit some excavation sites at Luxor as it is a very historical city with many ancient remains that are still amazing.

Kate: Well, when you describe it like that, it sounds really interesting!

Jerry: And that’s not all. I’ll be able to eat delicious, spicy food and enjoy swimming and sunbathing as they have a huge open-⁠air swimming pool in the hotel.

Kate: I’m sure you’ll have fun, Jerry, but let me ask you  — have you already reserved a room at the hotel you want? I find last minute bookings very disappointing.

Jerry: Don’t worry, I’m very lucky. I’ve reserved a room at the Pyramid Luxor Hotel, the best five stars resort in the area. I’ve seen some pictures on the Internet, it’s really nice!

Kate: That’s great, Jerry. I’m looking forward to seeing your photos when you get back.

Susan: Sally, have you read "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland"?

Sally: Yes. My mother read and loved it when she was younger and I have her copy. I loved it when I was younger, and even more now that I understand the metaphors and the irony.

Susan: Personally, I have a great love for the Caterpillar. And who is your favourite character from the book?

Sally: I think it is the Mad Hatter. His madness and playfulness helps me understand who I am or at least try to be as a person. What is your favourite passage from the book?

Susan: I love when the queen says "Sometimes I’ve believed in as many as six impossible things before breakfast."

Sally: My favourite passage is Alice’s conversation with herself as she falls down the rabbit hole. It was in that moment that I really fell in love with the quaint little girl named Alice.

Susan: Do you think that the book has any undertones, or do you merely love it as it is, a book written in an eccentric and witty style, full of twisted adventures?

Sally: I would say there are many witty, eccentric, slightly twisted books out there. Of course I think there are undertones. There are so many undertones in fact that I’m afraid the Alice book may become too outdated and cryptic for today's children.

Susan: Oh, no! I think of it as a contemporary book that can be enjoyed for years to come. I hope my children will read the same cherished copy I read and my mother read before me.

Sally: By the way, what is your favourite film adaptation of the Alice book?

Susan: I am not as familiar with the film adaptations as I am with the novel and musical interpretations. I quite like a music video that a friend of mine has done to the song "White Rabbit", but I suppose my favourite Alice film is the Disney version.

Sally: Yes. I highly respect Walt Disney and his work, and I think the movie is well done. Though I much prefer the book itself, Disney was not afraid to add a little bit of himself to the film, which I respect him for.

Jack: Hello, Mary! You look great and you have a wonderful tan! What did you do at the weekend?

Mary: Hello, Jack. Well, my parents and I had a long drive to the countryside to Sherwood Forest. My father is very much interested in Robin Hood, you know. Then we had lunch in a vintage inn in the summer garden. It was fantastic!

Jack: A vintage inn? What is that? Is it a kind of a countryside pub?

Mary: Not really. Actually, there are a lot of them, close to many major sights in Great Britain. They may look village-⁠like, but the standards of service are very high and the food is very tasty.

Jack: I don’t find such places amusing. Besides, the prices there are usually huge.

Mary: It is not cheap, I agree. At the same time, a lunch in London can be even more expensive indeed. Where else can you try a traditional pudding or delicious Cheddar Mash after all?

Jack: Still, I do not see any point in driving miles from London just to have a light lunch. What will you do there except gazing out of the window across a village green or a natural pond if you are lucky?

Mary: I cannot agree with you here, I am afraid. Vintage inns are generally located in places worth visiting like stately homes or historic villages or any other tourist attractions and many are close to enchanting walks. It is not only about a meal! As for staying indoors, as I said, most vintage inns have their own gardens and they are ideal to have lunch in in fine weather. That is where I got my tan anyway.

Jack: Well, you seem to have managed to persuade me. Next weekend I am going to Cardiff. Is there a vintage inn close?

Mary: There must be one. If you take a look at the map, you will certainly discover the closest vintage inn.

Jack: It may turn out not as good as the one you visited last weekend, though.

Mary: According to the travel brochure, every vintage inn is different, but they are all the same. They may have different designs and menus, but all landlords and landladies share the same passion for good food and excellent service, believe me!

Jack: Ok, can you lend me the map? I am sure you took one in the inn you visited.

Mary: You know me well enough! I will bring it tomorrow, I promise.

Jack: Thanks.

Mary: Hey, John! Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day! Do you remember?

John: Do I remember? I’ve spent loads of money on Valentine cards, to say nothing of postage costs!

Mary: That’s funny! I thought one was supposed to buy and send a card to just one person. Isn’t that the point?

John: It used to be, but I think not anymore. You are expected to send cards to teachers, relatives, neighbours ... This is ridiculous  — but be ready for some caustic comments if you forget somebody from this list! People have completely forgotten the fact that there was a time when this holiday was close to being forbidden  — I guess it was in 1969.

Mary: That’s sad, but you are probably right. For example, have you heard that, according to the statistics, teachers receive the most Valentines, followed by kids, mothers and only then spouses or sweethearts?

John: This doesn’t surprise me at all. Valentine’s Day is probably the second largest card-⁠sending holiday in the world.

Mary: Only the second? How come?

John: I think you are missing Christmas, aren’t you? You know Hallmark employs 80 people every year to research the sales pattern of previous Valentines. That is big business for them.

Mary: Much depends on clever advertising; that’s the fact. Do you know that in Japan after the successful campaign of a chocolate factory, women began to give men a box of sweets for Valentine’s Day?

John: Never! I don’t believe it! At least lucky men in Japan don’t have to buy bunches of roses.

Mary: A bouquet is important indeed. You don’t want to send mixed signals with it, do you?

John: What do you mean?

Mary: The colour of flowers, of course! Red can mean romantic love or just deep respect. Peach can tell a person of your gratitude or appreciation. Pink symbolizes perfection and black says farewell. Imagine you mix black and red or peach and pink.

John: This is completely over my head. I doubt many people still remember these archaic rules.

Mary: You never know! OK, I’ve got to go. See you tomorrow.

John: All right. I hope you’ll have a card for me!

Mary: I certainly will!

Mike: I’m 39 now and I resumed my studies when my son started Grade One. Now I’m very happy that I made up my mind to do this. I’ll be graduating in April and hopefully start teaching high school English in September.

Mary: What had you been doing before you went to university?

Mike: I had been doing administrative work for 13 years, straight out of high school. I had got very tired and fed up with the low pay and the monotonous nature of the work. So I started university.

Mary: That’s a right decision, indeed. As for me, I went to university at more or less the normal age. I was actually 21 at the time. But I did so miserably that the university suggested that I not return. Since then I’ve been basically wasting my time.

Mike: And what are your plans?

Mary: You see, one day I was fiddling around on the web and found some information about distance learning. It’s fabulous if you can’t take the time out to go to people-⁠ridden classes, because you can work it around your own schedule.

Mike: Yes, I think the fact that you can do the work in your own space and your own time is really helping.

Mary: Of course, I will have deadlines to meet, but they’re not the same as the in-⁠class sort. Handing things in doesn’t depend on anyone else’s office hours or class times, which is really handy. I will only have to contact my tutors when I want to or need to, or when I’m required to do an oral quiz or exam.

Mike: I think it’s a very good idea. Going to university was the best thing I have ever done. I found it was more fun than I expected, and the benefits outweighed the disadvantages. I learned so much about myself, and I’m very proud of my accomplishments!

Mary: And I expect my ability to study to be much better than it used to be and things come much more easily. While I still see doing some of the work as a chore, at least this time around I’m actually enjoying it.

Tom: I was an exchange student in Denmark in 2005 and had an absolutely awful experience with my host family and my school. They weren’t the friendliest of people.

Jack: Oh really? Well, with me there were things that made me a bit sad but in general I enjoyed being there. Yes, I know, people can seem a little cold and, yes,

even rude.

Tom: That’s it. And in my very first week I got insulted by a bus driver when I was trying to clip my card. Of course it can happen anywhere, but it was a bit sad that no one batted an eyelid.

Jack: It’s something I experienced as well, to be honest, but Scandinavians seem to be very sensitive underneath the shell. The harder the shell is, it seems, the more fragile underneath. It’s a new set of social rules we need to learn, I guess, when we go to a different country.

Tom: You’re right, of course. And despite all my problems, I miss Denmark so much, it’s like having a constant stomachache.

Jack: I know what you mean. There are things that I really love there. First, the tap water is drinkable. Then the Metro is gorgeous. It’s a pleasure to go by train, as the trains are cute inside.

Tom: What is more, the sky is often starry, because there’s little pollution. The air is pretty good. The thing is, I haven’t been happy since I returned home to the States. I’ve gotten to the point that I consider myself more Danish than I do American. But I wonder if it will be difficult to make new friends.

Jack: I have friends who live there now who say it’s quite hard to make friends or get into their circle. But, I think, it depends.

Tom: Ideally I plan to move in January. Yes, I know it’s the coldest month but if I don’t do it then, I’ll get all wrapped up in our city’s big spring festival and then the football season begins, then my birthday... you get the idea  — and never...

Jack: Yes, and this will also give you enough time to get a visa.

Carter: Hello, Holly. I need to talk to you.

Holly: Hi, Carter. We’ve got about ten minutes before Professor Label comes. How can I help you?

Carter: Holly, may I borrow your notes? I’ll give them back tomorrow.

Holly: Sorry, but I usually go to the cafeteria and review them. Say, why don’t you copy them over in the library?

Carter: Okay, I think I’ve got enough coins for the machine. You’re a lifesaver, Holly!

Holly: No problem. But I don’t understand why you need my notes, Carter; you haven’t missed any classes. Have you lost your notebooks?

Carter: Em... no, of course, not. But weekday mornings, I’m a cashier at a coffee shop. After work, I come directly to school, and, boy, am I beat!

Holly: Wow, you must be really exhausted!

Carter: That’s exactly why I want to borrow your notes; I’ve been nodding off during class, so my notes aren’t very good. But I need them badly  — the exams are coming and I’m short of time.

Holly: Well, here’s Professor Label; he’s about to start a lecture. How are you feeling?

Carter: I’m usually awake at the beginning. But ten minutes into class and I have trouble keeping my eyes open.

Holly: Listen, I need someone to study with, and you need someone to keep you awake; want to be study companions?

Carter: Yeah, I’d sure appreciate it.

Holly: Okay; let’s start today at the library. We should go there anyway. I'll have to grab a bite to eat in the cafeteria. I am hungry. Would you go with me?

Carter: No, thanks. We have someone from the international center coming to speak to the students about extracurricular activities, so I’ll join you in the library. Oh, no, it looks like the Professor has brought along some more of his slides; push me if I start falling asleep.

Holly: I’m afraid I won’t be very helpful; his slides make me sleepy too!

Carter: Anyway, can you wake me up as soon as he finishes showing them?

Holly: Okay. You owe me an ice-⁠cream.

Kelly: Hey, Peter, why don’t we go to the cinema together over the weekend?

Peter: I don’t like cinemas. There are crowds of people with pop corn and soda, and mobile phones will go off every now and then. It is difficult to concentrate. I would rather rent a DVD.

Kelly: Good idea! Let’s watch this new Indian film which was released last month. Do you like Indian films?

Peter: I have never watched a single Bollywood film before so I really do not know. I hear they are very long and boring.

Kelly: I will agree with you about the length but this is because of the amount of the song material. Besides, it a cultural thing  — when Indians go out for an evening’s entertainment, they nt a saga, a drama, a life story  — all in one and with some comical episodes as well. It is problematic to put all these aspects into 90 minutes, you know.

Peter: I see. Well, I guess singing and dancing must be a great strength of Indian commercial cinema. When actors show extreme emotions, just facial expressions may not be enough.

Kelly: Exactly. Songs and dances make the message loud and clear. Of course, it’s not real  — after all, who breaks out in synchronized dances with many extras when one is happy? But this is a characteristic of Indian cinema.

Peter: What is the main theme of Indian films?

Kelly: Well, India cannot be considered a rich country but movies show an image of the upper-⁠middle or rich classes. Most Indian people live a life which is completely different from what is there on the screen. This makes these films so attractive and bright.

Peter: How odd!

Kelly: I say, Peter, you mentioned "Bollywood films". What do you mean?

Peter: Don’t you know? It is one of the largest film producers in the world  — three films a day are finished there, which makes it about a 1000 films a year  — can you imagine? The name is a combination of Bombay where the studio is situated and Hollywood.

Kelly: I didn’t know that! So, what is your decision?

Peter: Well, let’s go to the rental shop, shall we?

The Lifestyle of a Rock Star.

Interviewer: Around the world young people are spending unbelievable sums of money to listen to rock music. "Forbes Magazine" claims that at least fifty rock stars have incomes of between two million and six million dollars per year. Today we’ll discuss the lifestyle of rock stars with the person who knows all about it, MTV producer Jack Jackson.

Jack Jackson: "It doesn’t make sense," says Johnny Mathis, one of the older music millionaires, who made a million dollars a year when he was most popular, in the 1950s. "Performers aren’t worth this kind of money. In fact, nobody is." But the rock stars’ admirers seem to disagree. Those who love rock music spend about two billion dollars a year for records. They pay 150 million to see rock stars in person.

Interviewer: Some observers think the customers are buying more than music.

Jack Jackson: Absolutely. Rock music has a special appeal because no real training is needed to produce it. There is no gulf between the audience and the performer. Every boy and girl in the audience thinks, "I could sing like that." So rock has become a new kind of religion, a new form of worship. Young people are glad to pay to worship a rock star because it is a way of worshipping themselves.

Interviewer: Luck is a key word for explaining the success of many. In 1972 one of the luckiest was Don McLean, who wrote and sang "American Pie." Mc Lean earned more than a million dollars from recordings of "American Pie."

Jack Jackson: Well, records provide only part of a star’s income. Around the world young listeners soon want to see the star in movies, on television, and in person. Neil Young, who performs in torn blue jeans, sometimes sings to an audience of 10,000, each of whom has paid at least fifteen dollars for a ticket. After paying expenses, Young leaves with about $120,000 in his pocket at the end of an evening.

Interviewer: How do the rock stars use their money? What do they do when the money starts pouring in like water?

Jack Jackson: Most young stars simply throw their money around. England’s Elton John gave someone a $38,000 Rolls-⁠Royce automobile and bought himself a $5,000 pair of eyeglasses that light up and spell E-⁠L-⁠TO-⁠N. He also bought himself two cars, "one for each foot." In the end, a rock star’s life is unrewarding. After two or three years riches and fame are gone. Left with his memories, and his tax problems, the lonely ex-⁠performer spends his remaining years trying to impress strangers. New stars have arrived to take his place.

Helen: How was your holiday, Betsy?

Betsy: It was great to get away to somewhere warm. I hate spending the New Year in a cold climate.

Helen: So, where did you go then?

Betsy: To the Canary islands. We flew to Tenerife.

Helen: Oh really? Did you get a charter?

Betsy: Yes, it was a package holiday, which included the flight and hotel. It was really good value.

Helen: So, where did you stay then?

Betsy: In the south of the island. We stayed in quite a nice hotel right near the coast.

Helen: I think, I read somewhere that the beaches in Tenerife are black. Is that right, Betsy?

Betsy: Yes, that’s partly true. They’re striped-⁠white and black. The black sand is from the volcanoes and the white sand is from the Sahara desert.

Helen: From the Sahara desert?!

Betsy: Yes. The island’s in the Atlantic Ocean, near Africa.

Helen: Oh, I didn’t realize that. So, it was pretty hot then?

Betsy: It was fantastic. Warm enough to swim in January.

Helen: So, you spent most of your time on the beach then?

Betsy: No, I also went on lots of trips. One trip to the mountains was incredible. The views were unbelievable!!! I also visited a really beautiful zoo in the mountains. It specialized in wild birds which flew free. I’ve never seen anything like it before.

Helen: Sounds marvellous. Are the mountains covered with snow at that time of the year?

Betsy: It’s not cold enough for that.

Helen: So, you’d recommend it as a holiday then?

Betsy: Yes. Sure. It’s a tremendous place for a winter break. I’d recommend it any time.

Helen: Oh, I forgot to ask. Do they speak Spanish there?

Betsy: Yes, the natives of the island speak Spanish, but nearly everybody speaks some English and a lot of English people actually live there. They have holiday homes there.

Helen: So you had no language problems then?

Betsy: No.

Alex: So, how was your weekend? Did you do anything interesting?

Betsy: No, not really, but it was nice to have some hot weather for a change.

Alex: Yeah, it was great, wasn’t it? Were you out much then?

Betsy: I went to the beach on Saturday with some friends. We went scuba diving just off the coast. My friend’s dad is an instructor at a diving club and he lent us all the diving equipment free of charge. We did a bit of sunbathing after that to warm up, because the temperature of the water was quite low. So what did you do?

Alex: I had to work on Saturday. I’ve got a Saturday job stacking shelves in the local supermarket. I was absolutely shattered at the end of the shift, which finished after nine o’clock at night.

Betsy: That’s late. I hope the pay’s good, if you have to work that late.

Alex: The pay’s not too bad and there are quite a few perks with the job. I get a twenty per cent discount for instance, on every purchase I make. So I don’t mind working late once a week. There was still time to do something after work, though. I went to Tony’s birthday party afterwards. Nearly everybody from our class was there. Why didn’t you come?

Betsy: Well, I was planning to, but we decided to stay late on the beach and have a barbecue. It was great. We also played some really good music. Yes, we all had a good time and stayed there quite late. I didn’t get home till past midnight in fact.

Alex: Yes, the party went on quite late as well. A lot of people stayed overnight, but I went home at about two in the morning. I had to get up quite early on Sunday, because my grandparents were coming round for lunch. And what did you do on Sunday? Anything special?

Betsy: No, not really. I got up quite late and just sat around for a couple of hours reading the Sunday papers. It was good to stretch out on the sofa and read in peace and quiet. I had to do some work on my geography project then. That took a couple of hours and then I had a few friends round and we just sat and chatted and listened to music. I was pretty tired after the party on Saturday night.

Alice: I’m just going to the shop to get a few bits and pieces. Do you need anything?

Dad: You couldn’t pick up a half a dozen litre bottles of carbonated water could you?

Alice: I would Dad but I am going by bike and I can’t get anything heavy. It’s more a case of anything small and urgent  — then I’m your girl.

Dad: Well we need batteries for the remote control. They are small and really urgent. We’ll not be able to watch TV otherwise

Alice: More urgent for you than for me. But no problem, batteries: Anything else?

Dad: I think we are pretty low on toothpaste and maybe soap. Do you want to check?

Alice: I checked already and we have plenty.

Dad: I know what we really need  — a roll of insulation tape. Some wires have come loose under the stairs and I promised your mum that I would sort it out. Actually we need a new box of fuses as well. They really have run out because I looked yesterday. And by the way we need a new screwdriver set because

Alice: I am not sure if I can get those from the shop on the corner. Probably it will be necessary to go into the centre of town.

Dad: Why don’t we both go? I’ll take the car and then we can stock up on some of the heavier things like water, fruit and veg.

Alice: You haven’t looked outside have you? There’s been an accident at the top of Gardner Street. The police have now closed it to cars and set up a diversion but the traffic is at a complete standstill. The only way to travel just now is by bike or on foot which is why I am going to cycle there.

Dad: I didn’t realize. Was it a bad accident?

Alice: They say on the radio news that nobody was hurt but 5 vehicles are involved and they don’t expect the road to be open again until later this evening.

Dad: I see. So we won’t get a chance to visit the town centre shops until tomorrow. In that case just some batteries  — if they sell them at the corner shop. I hope they do because I don’t know how a TV addict like you will possibly survive a whole evening without TV

Alice: Ha-⁠ha. Well it takes one to know one

Dad: Be careful on the bike. The traffic may be at a standstill but there are always a few drivers who go on pavements and similar stunts. Have you asked your Mum or brother if they need anything urgent?

Alice: I asked Mum but she doesn’t need anything. Michael’s still not home from college.

James: So are you glad we came?

Katie: I really am. Nice is so nice.

James: Ha-⁠ha! Do you really like it here?

Katie: I do.

James: Especially being here with me  — right?

Katie: Not only that. Actually I think Nice is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. If I were French I would want to live and work here.

James: You prefer Nice to Paris?

Katie: Definitely I do. I hate Paris anyway. It’s overrated, expensive and it smells. The air is better here and the climate is nicer. And  — a few further significant bonuses  — it’s by the sea, beautiful countryside is close by and yet it is still a perfect small city. If I lived here I would have an apartment just off the Place Massena and every evening stroll the Promenade des Anglais.

James: You think this holiday was worth seven weeks working in that department store?

Katie: Yeah  — but I did think about my brother quite a bit. He was doing that volunteer computer thing.

James: And he’s still there and we, my dear, are here. There is no doubt in my mind that we made the best choice. And now a suggestion. Well, a bit more than a suggestion. Well, actually a statement or maybe even...

Katie: What have you done?

James: I have booked the best table at La Cambuse.

Katie: Jamie, we can’t afford to eat there!

James: Probably we can’t. But we will. I keep telling you. Now is our time for experience and memory. It is going to be amazing. And afterwards we will briefly visit the Sari Bulldog and then finish the night at Club 54.

Katie: And see the sunrise on the beach again. Well, we only have two days left to starve! Let’s do it.

James: You are catching on girl.

Ivy: Thank you so much Paul. I can’t believe it. I can use e-⁠mail! I can down load files! I can go e-⁠shopping! It’s like a whole new world.

Paul: Ivy  — the pleasure is all mine. I told you it would be really easy.

Ivy: I know you did. And I said to my husband Fred I’d never manage to switch on a computer let alone use it. And he turned round and said to me "You listen to that Paul. He’s alright he is". And he was dead right. Guess what! Fred wants to have lessons as well but only if he can have them with you.

Paul: It would be a privilege to teach your husband Ivy. I am sure he’ll be as bright a star as you

are.

Ivy: What’s on the course in the autumn? Will you still be here?

Paul: I’ll be back to college in September but I’m still planning to do one evening a week here. So are my sister Katie and her boyfriend James, so you’ll have plenty to choose from.

Ivy: You’re my choice Paul! So what do you think I should study next?

Paul: Well, you’ve completed the beginners course, Ivy, and the logical next step is the improvers’ course. But in my opinion you now know enough to go straight to a higher level. You can take the CLAIT course and get a diploma. Or you can stretch to Office Skills and Administration which is a bit tougher but it will really improve your chance of getting a job.

Ivy: Oh I can just see me. Keen young 57 year old secretary!

Paul: You are not too old Ivy. If you get the right qualifications you could be earning a decent salary next year.

Ivy: Which course will you be teaching in September?

Paul: I’ll be doing CLAIT every Wednesday evening.

Ivy: Then I’ll begin with CLAIT.

Paul: And you can always do the Skills course in January. It might well be the best route.

Ivy: Where do I sign?

Paul: Just tell Frances in reception and she’ll get you registered.

Katie: You are going to work all summer as a volunteer?

Paul: Yes. It’s really exciting. I can’t wait.

Katie: Let me see now, that’ll be no money, no time off and no summer. I can only see positives!

Paul: Ha-⁠Ha, how witty you are, very funny. Is it worth even trying to explain to a summer department store worker such as yourself?

Katie: Steady on brother! OK  — tell me about it. I am all ears.

Paul: Did you know there are thousands of people with no computer skills? Think about that for a moment. What jobs today don’t need computers? And think about our media surroundings. It’s all websites, virtual opportunities, social networking and so on. Then just imagine you don’t understand any of it. Imagine no prospect ever of getting a job or even....

Katie: Paul  — there is no excuse nowadays for anyone not having basic computer skills.

Paul: Really? What about people over 50? They never had computer classes at school because for ordinary people then, there were no computers. And what about those disadvantaged by dyslexia, or those from tough home environments, or the elderly, or...

Katie: I get the picture. Go on.

Paul: I’ll be in a training centre, giving one-⁠to-⁠one tuition to people whose lives might really change for the better. I did one evening a week last term and loved it. Now I have a whole summer.

Katie: Well I will work 7 days a week for most of the summer. And then I am going to the south of France with James and we’ll have the summer holiday of our lives.

Paul: That’s great Katie. Don’t think I don’t approve or even that I am not a tiny bit jealous. I am not a saint and actually in a sense, we are both taking the same option.

Katie: What do you mean?

Paul: You, dear sister, and I are both choosing exactly what we want to do this summer and really, we are making that choice only for ourselves.

Katie: Well  — I still think you should get a halo.

Alice: Hi Michael. How was your day?

Michael: College was OK but it was a nightmare driving home. How was yours?

Alice: Boring  — but I was really glad of my bike when I came home. I cycled through the park. It was a bit longer than usual  — maybe 25 minutes.

Michael: And for me it took almost 4 hours. There was an accident in Gardner Street I was supposed to have a free afternoon and I was going to play tennis.

Alice: The traffic is still bad now otherwise I might have gone to see "Avatar" at the cinema.

Michael: Is that the 3D film?

Alice: Yes. Actually I have seen it twice before but the 3D effect is so impressive on a cinema screen. I doubt I’d ever watch it on DVD at home. Anyway  — there’s no chance of going out anywhere this evening. At least we can watch TV. I managed to use my bike to get to the corner shop and pick up some batteries for the remote.

Michael: Have you looked to see if there is anything on worth watching?

Alice: I checked the TV guide and to be honest there is nothing much worth watching tonight. There is a film I’d like to see about Jim Morrison and The Doors. I forget its name. But it starts rather late so I think I’ll just record it and get an early night.

Michael: It’s called "The Doors" and I have it on DVD if you want to watch it earlier. It’s a really good film. I might watch it again with you.

Alice: On the other hand I might take the opportunity to make some progress on my dissertation. What joy  — another couple of thousand words on political references and codes in Shakespeare.

Michael: Wow  — that sounds like fun!

Alice: Have you had any more luck finding your new "green" vehicle?

Michael: I was thinking of a metallic red actually.

Alice: Very funny!

Michael: Well I am thinking about it still. I am still not sure if I can afford it or not. But I am going down to the show room next week for a test drive and to see what sort of deals they can offer.

Receptionist: Hello, Windsor Travel Company, how may I help you?

Tourist: Hello, I was just wondering if you could offer me a tour of Windsor. This is my first visit to England and I want to make the most of it. I’ve been dreaming of visiting Windsor for quite a long time, so …

Receptionist: And may I tell you that you have phoned the very right place! We’re the oldest company in Great Britain to offer a variety of guided tours to Windsor.

Tourist: So you have several routes? I’m surprised to hear that as I thought Windsor’s a really tiny town.

Receptionist: Windsor isn’t big but there’s so much to see and do there. Would you like me to list some of the opportunities?

Tourist: Yes, please.

Receptionist: Well, the most famous attraction in Windsor is certainly the magnificent Windsor Castle  — the most romantic castle in the world. When the Queen is in residence, her presence is marked by the flying of her personal standard from the Round Tower. You may be lucky to see that.

Tourist: I guess Windsor Castle is a must for a tourist like me. What can I see there?

Receptionist: First you go to St George’s Chapel  — one of England’s most beautiful ecclesiastic structures  — and move forward to Queen Mary’s Doll’s House a perfect miniature palace with working lights and lifts, and even running water in all its 5 bathrooms!

Tourist: That must be amazing! Anything else I could see apart from Windsor Castle?

Receptionist: You may stroll to the Household Cavalry Museum. Inside is a comprehensive collection of the Regiment’s uniforms, weapons and armour as used from 1600 to the present day. One more thing absolutely worth seeing is Windsor Great Park and Smith’s Lawn.

Tourist: Is it possible to combine all these things into one day’s tour?

Receptionist: Most people feel one day isn’t enough for them but you’ll have a general impression and can come back next time you’re in England.

Tourist: And what about shopping opportunities? I’d really love to buy some souvenirs for my family and friends.

Receptionist: Windsor Royal Station will suit you. The covered shopping area combines modern store design and user-⁠friendly facilities.

Tourist: Good. I think I’ll order a tour now.

Now we are ready to start.

David: Hi, Paula. It’s really so sweet of you to drop in on me today. I’m so lonely here at home. Not being able to attend school. Thank you so much for not forgetting me.

Paula: That’s fine. I missed you so much too! Everybody does. You look so much better than you sounded on the phone. I hope you are getting better?

David: You really never know with this nasty colds, but I do feel good. Doctor said I’ll be ok in a few days. Ready to come back to studies. I tired thinking about of how much I have to catch up.

Paula: You shouldn’t, really. You’ll have to write an essay, that’s true. But the part of that is pretty much simple reading and you can start doing that right after I leave.

David: So you think I shouldn’t worry?

Paula: Absolutely!

David: What should I star with? What can you advise me?

Paula: Well, if I were you, I’d start with history. You’ll have to read two chapters of the book: numbers seven and eight. These are about science and religion in the 18th century. Then you’ll have to write an essay, comparing those two in the past and modern times. That’s seems the most difficult, I guess.

David: Take it from me. It does sound impossible.

Paula: No. Believe me, as you progress with your reading, the structure of the essay will become clearer. Then there are some French exercises. But French has always been the strong point of you. So it should be a piece of cake for you.

David: Still. I’ll do the exercises. I need extra practice anyway. Anything else I need to do?

Paula: There is an article to read for biology. Our teacher gave us also copies.

David: But I don’t have one! Oh my God! Where I’m going to get mine from?

Paula: Don’t panic, please! Here you go. I took one for you.

David: Paula, you are a star.

Paula: Thanks. After reading it, you must write down three most important ideas in the article and submit your work in written form to the teacher.

David: OK, It looks like I’ll be able to get back to school with some confidence after all. Thanks once again

Paula: That’s ok. I think I have to go now. You are probably still weak and I mustn’t disturb you. Take care!

David: You too! You too!

Now we are ready to start.

Peter: Hi Lucy! You weren’t at school today, what is the matter? I was worried about you.

Lucy: Hi, Peter! It’s nothing serious actually. I just felt a bit sick in the morning, so my mum let me stay at home.

Peter: You poor thing! And are you feeling better now?

Lucy: Yeah, much better, thank you. I guess it must have been that pizza that I ate yesterday. That was the reason for my stomachache. I had too much. But now yeah, I feel all right. I think I won’t miss any more lessons this week.

Peter: But you haven’t been to the doctor’s office, have you? Won’t you have problems with school because you missed classes? When I was ill for a month I put a medical certificate for school.

Lucy: Well my mum called our class teacher so I don’t think there will be any problems. Besides, we don’t have many lessons on Wednesdays. How was geography, by the way? Did you take a test?

Peter: Oh no, we didn’t. But we revised the material for the test. The teacher asked several people to do exercises with the map of the UK at the blackboard. And then we had a sort of contest in groups when we had to find different mountains, rivers and lakes. The quicker  — the better. That was fun! And we also checked our homework and asked the teacher questions if we’re not sure about the answers. You know, I feel well prepared for tomorrow’s test now.

Lucy: Wait a second: are we going to take a test tomorrow? I can’t believe it!

Peter: Yes, our teacher said that we’re starting a new topic next week, so we have to finish this one tomorrow. Do you need any help with geography?

Lucy: Hmmm... If you can lent me your exercise book with notes and checked homework. That would save me hours.

Peter: I’m afraid I can’t give you my exercise book right now, because I have to revise the material for the test myself. But if you call me in two hours, we could probably study for the test together.

Lucy: Sounds like a great idea! And thanks so much for offering the help. It’s so nice to have a friend like you.

Peter: No problem. See you later then. Bye for now!

Lucy: Bye Peter!

Now we are ready to start.

Katie: Hello Mike, how are you?

Mike: Hi, Katie. I’m ok, thanks. Hey, do you fancy going to the movies tonight?

Katie: Why not? It sounds great. I haven’t been to the movies for ages I guess. And.. what’s on?

Mike: It’s "Men in black 3" in 3D. All my friends are absolutely crazy about it.

Katie: Everybody seems to have watched it except me. I’d love to see it.

Mike: Good. It’s a date then. I’ll pick you around about 6:30, if you don’t mind? The film starts at 7:00.

Katie: Fine, I’ll be ready. Waaaait, I completely forgot a have a test tomorrow. I’m afraid I can’t go after all. Mike, I’m so sorry.

Mike: But you’ve got plenty of time to revise.

Katie: Yes, I know, but math has never been my strongest point, besides the test is rather difficult and I’ve missed the couple of lessons. So, it doesn’t seem very easy for me.

Mike: Do you want me to help you with your math? I can come in an hour or so and try to explain to you what we’ve cover when you were ill. I’m not a math geniuses but is seems like I haven’t got any problems with it.

Katie: That would be nice indeed. But still, I’m not sure I’ll be free by 6:30. Dad asked me to walk the dog and take my younger brother from the kindergarten at 5. Sorry, Mike. Maybe some other day.

Mike: No problem. What about Tuesday?

Katie: On Tuesday I agreed to meet with Ann. Susanne is having her birthday party on Wednesday and we decided to buy something nice for her.

Mike: Oh really? What do you want to get?

Katie: I was thinking about a book of yoga. She is keen on sports. And lately she’s been taking a yoga class. She’s may been interesting in to learn more about meditation stuff and different meditative states.

Mike: Not bad. Well, you are going to a birthday party on Wednesday, aren’t you?

Katie: Exactly. But we can watch a movie on Thursday, what do you think?

Mike: Well, I don’t have any plans for Thursday so far. The only thing that I’m worried about is will be on then. I think today is our last chance.

Katie: Anyway, today won’t do.

Mike: Look: I’ve got an idea. I can buy a DVD with any other movie you’d like to watch and we can watch it on Thursday.

Katie: Awesome. Let’s do it!

Now we are ready to start.

Tom: Hi, Kate. Kate, earth to Kate! You’re obviously so deep in thoughts. Are you lost in your dreams? What are you thinking about?

Kate: Oh, hi Tom! Sorry, I didn’t see you. Actually I was thinking about a present for my friend’s birthday.

Tom: This shouldn’t be much of the problem for you. You are always so creative for the presents.

Kate: Thanks for the compliment, but the point is, I don’t know this person very well, so choosing a present for her is tricky.

Tom: How can it be that this is your friend and you don’t know this person very well? How can be possible?

Kate: I know it sounds strange, but this is my pen friend actually.

Tom: That explains it. How did you find her?

Kate: Well, she is from Peru and we have just started communicating. I found her profile on facebook. I got a message saying that she has her birthday in two weeks; I thought it’d be nice to give her something on such a special occasion.

Tom: Ok, I see. What about giving her CD? This shouldn’t be so hard to ship to Peru, and music is universal, you know.

Kate: A great idea! But I don’t know what she has or hasn’t in her music collection, do i?

Tom: Oh, that’s pretty easy. You can give her a disc of our local music, she can’t have that. That’s for sure.

Kate: Super! You’re a star!

Tom: Just keep in mind what styles she generally prefers. Do you have any information on that?

Kate: I saw it in her profile. If I remember correctly, she likes calm, romantic music. Does that mean that she is a quite person?

Tom: Not necessarily. She might be just the opposite. Very talkative and easygoing.

Kate: You know, I believe, persons character is reflected in what music he or she likes.

Tom: I think so too. But the connections can be very unexpected and inexplicable for my mind.

Kate: All right. Now I need to go to a music shop and choose something.

Tom: Shall I help you? I’m absolutely free and I know all the local music really well. I can help you choose.

Kate: Really? That would be great! You could also help me choose something for myself, I think my collection needs new items.

Tom: Good idea. Let’s go then.

(Woman aged about 40): Hello, is that Mr Harris?

(Man aged about 40): Yes.

Woman: It’s Mrs French here. From Oak Avenue. You did a lot of work for my next door neighbour last year, Mrs Green. I was wondering if you were free to do some work for me sometime.

Man: Let me look at my diary. This week I’m painting a house and next week I’m converting an attic into an extra bedroom. But I’m free in two weeks’ time. What do you need doing?

Woman: Oh, lots of things! The most important are the windows. They’re very old. I’d like some new, plastic windows.

Man: I’m sorry. I don’t do windows. I can recommend someone, though. A very good worker and very reasonable. I can give you his phone number, if you like.

Woman: Oh, thank you. I’ll just get my pen.

Man: The number is 0133 76453 and his name is Paul. He’s often booked up a long time in advance. The sooner you phone him the better.

Woman: I’ll phone him today. The other main job I want done is to redecorate the upstairs bathroom. I had some other workmen in to redecorate the downstairs bathroom. They did it nicely but they took ages and made a mess in the house.

Man: OK.'

Woman: And I’m thinking about making some changes to my garage but I’m not sure exactly what. I’d really like you to have a look at it and give me some ideas about what could be done.

Man: No problem.

Woman: And then there are some small jobs that my husband should have done but hasn’t got around to. Things like putting up shelves and changing the lights in the children’s bedrooms. I’ll probably think of lots more things before you get here!

Man: Right, well I can come round one evening after work and have a look. Then I’ll be able to tell you exactly how long it will take. How about Wednesday at about 6pm?

Woman: Thursday would be better. My son has tennis lessons on Wednesday and I have to collect him at about 6.30 so we wouldn’t have much time.

Man: Well, maybe Thursday, then.

Woman: Thursday’s fine. My husband won’t be at home but he doesn’t take much interest in the house anyway so that’s no problem.

Man: See you on Thursday. Goodbye.

Woman: Thank you. Goodbye.

Man: Good afternoon, Central Entertainment Cinema Centre.

Woman: Hello. I’m phoning about your birthday specials.

Man: Oh yes? Would you like to book one?

Woman: Well, what does the special consist of exactly?

Man: You have the use of our party room for one hour. Then there is a half hour tour of the cinema to see how everything works and then, of course, a film.

Woman: What food is there?

Man: Oh there isn’t any food. You can bring your own food and drink and we can provide plastic plates and cups for a small extra charge if you wish or you can bring your own.

Woman: And what about when the film is on? Where can we leave all the plates and presents?

Man: The room is yours until half an hour after the film finishes so you can leave everything there. The door is locked so you don’t have to worry.

Woman: It sounds great. How much does it cost?

Man: It’s £30, plus £5 per child up to a maximum of ten.

Woman: Do we have to pay in advance?

Man: You have to pay the £30 for the room at least a week in advance but you don’t have to pay for the children until the party itself.

Woman: It all sounds very reasonable. My son’s birthday is on Thursday June 10th. Could I book the special for the Saturday afternoon? The 12th.

Man: I’m sorry. Saturday 12th is already fully booked. Friday 11th in the evening is free or Sunday 13th in the afternoon.

Woman: What time on Friday?

Man: The film starts at 7.30 so the room would be available from about 6pm.

Woman: What film is it?

Man: It’s called Base 63. It’s an action film set in space. It’s suitable for all ages

but we would recommend that children under eight may not enjoy it.

Woman: My son is 12 so that’s perfect. Can I book now and tell you how many children will be coming later?

Man: You can certainly book now but you don’t have to tell us the number until the day. As long as there are no more than ten children in total.

Woman: And how can I pay?

Man: You can come to the cinema at any time when the box office is open or you can pay online. All the details are on our website.

Woman: Lovely. Thank you very much for your help.

Man: You’re welcome.

Now we are ready to start.

John: Hello, Maggie. What are you buying?

Maggie: I'm choosing a dress to begin with. What do you think about this one?

John: Ooh, it's a gorgeous dress, Maggie, but the other one seems nicer.

Maggie: Mmm, it's lovely, isn't it? But you're right, the blue dress looks better. And I'm going to buy it.

John: Remember to take the receipt. Last year I couldn't return a jumper because I didn't have a receipt.

Maggie: What was wrong with the jumper?

John: Nothing except the colour, the shape and the size. It was a present from Mum. Every Christmas she gives me a dreadful jumper, but I can't explain to her that I don't need it because I don't want to hurt her feelings.

Maggie: That's why I always buy clothes myself.

John: Can we go and look at the computer games now?

Maggie: OK, Johnny, you are very patient. Let's just have a look at shoes and then we can go to the electronics shop. I want to buy a camera for my brother. So what are you doing at Christmas, John? You've got a few days off work, haven't you?

John: Indeed I have, Maggie, and I'm going to Poland for a few days. I'm looking forward to a nice cosy Christmas. Fancy joining me?

Maggie: I've already been invited, but thank you. Tim and I had quite a long chat the other day. It'd be nice to see him but I've already made plans. I'm spending Christmas with my Mom and Dad.

John: Yeah, you'll have a family Christmas. I expect we're feeling peckish, so we'll have a quick bite to eat before going home.

Maggie: OK, let's go.

You have 15 seconds to complete the task. (Pause 15 seconds.) Now you will hear the text again. (Repeat.)

This is the end of the task. You now have 15 seconds to check your answers. (Pause 15 seconds.)

Real Estate Agent [male, salesman, obsequious]: [in person, office setting] Hel-⁠lo, Mrs Fusspot, and thanks for coming in. Do sit down. I think I've got the perfect cottage for you. It came on the market this morning.

Client [female, elderly, spinsterish]: Thank you, young man. You know, it's tak-⁠en far longer than I expected and I am rather anxious to move from my present home.

Man: I do understand your hurry, Mrs Fusspot. It must be very hard to have such inconsiderate next-⁠door neighbours  — the children playing in their garden, the dog barking, birthday parties, family gatherings and so on. I don't know how you've put up with it.

Woman: Well, when you reach my age, young man, you learn the value of patience. Now, tell me about this cottage you've found.

Man: Oh, it's just lovely. Far better than anything else you've seen. So charming. A beautiful rose garden and magnificent trees. A short walk to the beach and the village shops and post office. If you would be so kind as to look at these photos. Here you are...

Woman: Hmmm... it does have a certain charm. Is it 19th century?

Man: Actually, no. It dates from 1798, so technically, it's an 18th century building. And look, you can see the date inscribed over the door.

Woman: Oh yes. What about the price?

Man: Well, it's 20,000 pounds over your budget, but I do believe it's worth the ex-⁠tra cash. Here, have a look at the beautiful fireplace in the living room and the high-⁠ceilings in all of the rooms. There are three bedrooms in all, and I know you specified that two would be enough, but you could use the third as a library or open it up to the back garden and use it as a patio. You could sit out there on warm summer evenings and enjoy the view of the sea.

Woman: That's a very nice suggestion, but I don't know the first thing about reno-⁠vating and remodelling houses. I'm not sure I want the fuss, the mess or the delay.

Man: Leave that to me, Mrs Fusspot. I can recommend a builder who could do the job for a good price and quickly  — he'll be in and out in no time at all.

Woman: We'll see about that. When can I view the property? Tomorrow?

Man: Why wait? The seller is no longer living there so we won't be disturbing an-⁠yone. My car is parked just outside.

Woman: Fine, let's see it then. I hope it's as good close up as it is in the photos. [fade]

Bill: Hi, Cindy, long time no see! How are you!

Cindy: It’s great to see you, Bill, but I think we met about three or four days ago. Did you miss me so much?

Bill: Of course I did! I got quite used to seeing you every day when we worked together on the farm.

Cindy: Frankly speaking, I miss that too. Of course getting up early was unpleasant and now I’m enjoying being able to sleep till lunchtime but apart from that I had a wonderful month working outdoors.

Bill: Well, getting up early was certainly not a problem for me.

Cindy: I know. It always seemed to be so unfair that I felt sleepy and you were fresh and smiling.

Bill: Come on, Cindy, it wasn’t your fault or mine either.

Cindy: Yeah, I know. So, we have got good money  — somewhat more than we expected, right?

Bill: Yes, they said we did a good job. What are you going to do with the money?

Cindy: Well, I was thinking of buying a new camera.

Bill: What’s wrong with the old one? You’ve had it for only a couple of years. It still functions, doesn’t it?

Cindy: It does, but Bill, you just don’t get it. My old camera is already outdated. I need a new one. You know I’m crazy about photography.

Bill: Okay, okay. Anything else you are planning on buying?

Cindy: You know my younger sister wants a new doll and my parents said no because they think it’s too expensive. But everybody in her class has these dolls and she wants one too so I think I’ll buy it. I just hope my parents won’t be mad at me about it.

Bill: They might express some disapproval but I guess deep in their hearts they’ll be grateful to you. Besides, you are such a kind sister.

Cindy: And you, Bill, how are you going to spend your money?

Bill: I think it will all go to my college fund.

Cindy: All of it? Incredible!

Bill: You know I’m feeling very focused on going to Dartmouth and it’s quite expensive. My parents promised to pay for my tuition only if I pay for part of it.

Cindy: I’m so proud of you, Bill. I hope you’ll get accepted to Dartmouth, you deserve it.

Bill: Thank you, Cindy. Anyway, don’t you think we should celebrate the end of our work? Why don’t we go to that new coffee house on Main Street and spend some quality time there?

Cindy: That’s an excellent idea. Are you free at the moment? We could go right now.

Bill: Yeah, no plans at all.

Cindy: Let’s go then.

Alice: Hey, Tom! Long time no see, how are you?

Tom: Alice, what a pleasant surprise! I am doing great, what about yourself?

Alice: I’m well, too. What have you been doing all this time?

Tom: Well, I’ve been studying at a boarding school in Oxford.

Alice: Wow, it’s not the famous one for boys, is it?

Tom: Yes, that’s the one.

Alice: How do you like it? How is it different from our old school?

Tom: I like it ok. The studies are very rigorous. We have five classes a day before lunch and four after we eat. Of course, one of the classes each day is a sport but it’s still a rather hard day.

Alice: Sounds intense, if you ask me. Do they give you homework, too?

Tom: Well, some. We usually have reading for our lit classes and homework in foreign languages  — some vocabulary learning and grammar exercises.

Alice: How many foreign languages are you studying?

Tom: Two modern languages and Latin. You have a choice of foreign languages: French, Spanish, Arabic and Chinese. Latin is compulsory.

Alice: Which ones are you taking right now? I think I’d go for Arabic and Chinese since those are really popular these days.

Tom: I am studying Chinese and French. You see, my Dad has a business in France, so if I ever decide to follow in his steps, I’ll definitely need French. And Arabic, as you say, is very popular nowadays.

Alice: With all that studying do you ever have fun? Have you made any good friends?

Tom: Of course, I have! I’ve got a small circle of close friends, three boys we hang out with. At weekends we have some free time to play games, go for walks or into town.

Alice: That’s good. What do you do when you go into town? I’ve been to Oxford and there isn’t much to do there it seems.

Tom: Are you kidding? There is a nice cinema complex there and a shopping centre. There are also some nice coffee shops and cheap restaurants. There is one coffee place that has a poetry contest every Saturday night where anyone can have stage time to recite their poetry. So, we do that with friends.

Alice: Are you serious? You recite poetry for fun? You even write your own poetry? That’s pretty amazing. You were always into books, so I guess this school is a good match for you.

Tom: It really is. I’m rather happy here. The only drawback is that I don’t see my parents during the term, only on holidays and sometimes they come up to see me at weekends.

Brenda: Oh, hi Tom. Haven’t seen you for ages. They say you became a successful doctor...

Tom: Hi Brenda. Who told you that? I’m just a surgical engineer.

Brenda: How do you mean?

Tom: I work for a company that produces extremely specialized surgical instruments.

Brenda: Right then, Tom. Your job is a complete mystery to me. I'm a complete idiot in scientific matters, so can you explain, as simply as possible, what you do?

Tom: Of course. I'll try! Well, our company produces surgical equipment. That is different from medical equipment. By medical equipment we mean thermometers, machines to measure heart beats and so on. We don't do that  — all our equipment is used for surgery.

Brenda: You mean knives, things like that?

Tom: (laughs) No... actually not quite as simple as that. In the old days, yes, if a person had, say, cancer, the answer was usually to open them up and cut out the cancerous tissue. This approach is used less and less nowadays, and that's where our products come in. We specialise either in cryo-⁠surgical instruments...

Brenda: Sorry, you'll have to explain that.

Tom: OK. Cryo-⁠surgery basically means destroying diseased cells by freezing them. Once the doctor has identified the malignant cells, the surgeon will insert an instrument that freezes them, at temperatures as low as minus 75°. These instruments are incredibly delicate and have to be extremely precise. They usually look like a long, thin tube  — sometimes as thin as 0.9mm.

Brenda: I see...

Tom: The other area we specialise in is ultrasonic surgery. Here the surgeon will insert a titanium rod which oscillates, vibrates, at the very high frequency of 35MHz. This literally hammers the malignant tissue until it is destroyed.

Brenda: Fascinating. And what is your part in all this?

Tom: Well, my official job title is 'Project Engineer'. The way it usually goes is this: a surgeon comes to us and says,"I think I can freeze a particular type of cancer, and I think I can do it by doing this and doing that. Can you design a tool that will let me do it?" I'm in charge of a team of draughtsmen who have to design the instrument, and of mechanical and electronic engineers who will create it. I have to oversee the whole process, and make sure that we are obeying all the regulations, which are very strict in the making of surgical instruments.

Joan: Right, Steve... About our party! Let’s try and get it sorted out today so we don’t have it hanging over us. OK?

Steve: Good idea, Joan. I’ll take notes.

Joan: First  — dates... well. That’s straightforward.

Steve: The last working day before Christmas... which is...

Joan: ...which is December 21st.

Steve: ...which is going to be pretty difficult to book at Christmas so we’d better think of two or three places just to be on the safe side.

Joan: Well, last year was a disaster.

Steve: The Red Lion, wasn’t it?

Joan: Yeah. We ought to go for something more expensive, ‘cause you...

Steve: ...you get what you pay for.

Joan: That new Indian restaurant in Wetherfield is supposed to be excellent… the Rajdoot.

Steve: How do you spell that?

Joan: R-⁠A-J-⁠D-O-⁠O-T.

Steve: But it’s bound to be packed.

Joan: Well, let’s put that down as the first choice and have some back-⁠ups. What about the Park View Hotel as the second choice?

Steve: Yes, that’s always reliable. Park View Hotel...

Joan: And the London Arms just in case.

Steve: London Arms...

Joan: I’ll call them now if you want.

Steve: No. I’ll do it, Joan. You are really busy. Have you got the numbers?

Joan: Not for the Rajdoot, but... right... Park View Hotel: 777193 and... London

Arms: 207658.

Steve: Great. Before I ring, we’d better just make sure they are within the price range.

Joan: Up to £15 a head?

Steve: I think you’ll find some people won’t be able to go that high.

Joan: Well, you can’t get anything decent under £10.

Steve: OK. We’ll say £12?

Joan: OK.

Steve: And we’d better make sure there’s good vegetarian food.

Joan: Yes, you know what the boss is like.

Steve: Don’t remind me. I’ll let you know as soon as I find out anything.

Emily: Hello, Sam! How are you? How was your first day of classes?

Sam: Hello, Emily! I am well. Classes this semester seem interesting, but I am sure they will be a lot of work, as always.

Emily: Yeah, mine look that way, too. My history teacher told us that we will have to write four research papers by December and will have five big tests. It’s a good thing, I like history.

Sam: No kidding, I think my biology class will be the same way. Our teacher is very demanding. But with all the summer rest we’ve had, we should have enough energy, right?

Emily: Yes, by the way, Sam, how was your summer? Did you do anything special?

Sam: It was great. I spent two months at my grandparents’ cottage on a lake. My grandfather is into fishing, so every day we went out on a boat with him. The weather was hot, so I was able to sunbathe and swim a lot. My friend was visiting his grandparents in the cottage next door, so we spent some time running around the countryside, climbing trees and picking wild berries.

Emily: Sounds like a nice relaxing summertime. I wish I had done the same. I envy you for having spent it outdoors because my summer wasn’t nearly as active as yours.

Sam: Really? Why not? What did you do this summer?

Emily: I spent June on the couch in my flat, reading books and watching some boring TV shows. All my friends were gone by then, so I didn’t even have anyone to go roller skating or bike riding with. Then in July I went to the seaside with my family. We visited Greece but the sea was stormy most of the time, so we mostly did some sightseeing and shopping. We swam only two times! The most exciting part of the trip was visiting the ruins of Athens.

Sam: Wow, did you see the famous Parthenon? Is it as beautiful as they told us in history class?

Emily: Yes, it is very graceful and the feeling of visiting such an ancient place is amazing, so I took a lot of pictures.

Sam: I would love to see them when you get the chance. Have you got them on your phone?

Emily: No, I took them with my camera, so you can see them on my computer. I am also making a photo album of my trip to Greece, so when I am finished, why don’t you come over and look at it?

Sam: I’d really like that, thanks. Let me know when it would be a good time to do that.

Emily: I will. I have to run now, time to get some homework done. Bye, Sam!

Sam: Bye, Emily!

Bill: Hi Peggy! How’s it going?

Peggy: Hi Bill! I’m doing great! Guess what, I’m going to Moscow for my study abroad program next year. This is my first trip to Russia!

Bill: That’s fantastic, Peggy! I was there during my gap year. I can give you some advice about what to see and do there if you like.

Peggy: That would be great! I was hoping you’d be able to help me out.

Bill: Well, the nice thing about Moscow is that you won’t need a car. The public transportation system is one of the best in the world and the metro stations are very efficient and also beautiful. Tourists come from all over the world to see them.

Peggy: Oh! That’s good to hear. I was thinking about buying a bicycle to travel around Moscow. But I guess, it’s not necessary.

Bill: It’s true that Moscow is becoming more bicycle-⁠friendly. There are special lanes for bikes and you can even rent them around the city for a small fee, but there’s still a lot of traffic and pedestrians to navigate through and it’s too cold and slippery in the winter for biking.

Peggy: Right! What about food? You know, I’m a vegetarian.

Bill: Well, being a vegetarian is not as common in Russia as it is in America, but it’s becoming more and more popular in Moscow, and you can find specialty stores that sell things like tofu and other products for vegetarians, as well as vegetarian cafes. In addition, there are a lot of great dairy products like kefir and cottage cheese that you will love that you can find in any supermarket.

Peggy: Cool! Another thing I was wondering about is where I can go to watch movies. I’m a really avid film-⁠goer and I don’t like missing new releases. The problem is, my Russian isn’t so good and I heard that in Russia all foreign films are dubbed into Russian.

Bill: That’s true. Sometimes it’s really hard to find films shown in English. There are a few places though that show films in English with Russian subtitles. These are often artsy intellectual places for Russians who know English, and they don’t often sell popcorn there. You won’t be able to find blockbuster films there, either.

Peggy: That’s ok. I prefer watching more artistic films anyway. I also don’t care much for popcorn, so it’s not a big deal. What about places to see? I know about all the major attractions. But I’m sure there must be some less well-⁠known sights that I shouldn’t miss.

Bill: Since you are into movies, you should check out Mosfilm studio. They have excursions there where you can see Russian film sets and props for classic Soviet films. It’s extremely fascinating. There are also a large number of lesser known museums that were actually the homes of famous Russian writers and artists that show how they really lived. I especially loved Tolstoy’s and Dostoyevsky's museums.

Peggy: That sounds wonderful! Thank you, Bill for giving me such great advice! I’m really looking forward to my year abroad!

Bill: I’m sure you’re going to have an unforgettable experience. Please keep in touch and let me know how it goes.

Peggy: Sure! See you later!

Bill: Bye!

Greg: Hello, Mary! It’s so good to see you. How are things?

Mary: Oh, hi, Greg. I’m fine, thank you. What about you?

Greg: I’m okay, thanks. Congratulations on your summer holidays! I hope you are going to do something really exciting during them.

Mary: Actually, I’m going to travel to Russia.

Greg: Russia? Such a great choice! I spent a year in Russia as an exchange student and I absolutely loved the country.

Mary: Oh, I’ve clean forgotten you’ve been to Russia. It’s so good we’ve met

today then. I hope you can give me some useful tips on my future trip.

Greg: I’ll be glad to be of some help. What would you like to know?

Mary: Well, let me think … I have got my visa already and I’ve booked my trip with the travel agency, so I guess I have just a few practical questions.

Greg: So, go ahead.

Mary: Okay. The first issue is the money. Should I take cash or can I pay by my credit card?

Greg: If you stick to bigger cities, your credit card should be fine. In very small towns paying by credit card or withdrawing cash could be a problem, though.

Mary: Oh, I won’t go to any small towns. The tour includes just big cities, like Moscow or Saint Petersburg.

Greg: Then you don’t need to worry. You’ll find exchange offices and ATMs at banks without any problems. If I were you, I’d take some cash just to be on the safe side plus the credit card.

Mary: Did you have an impression that it’s safe in Russia?

Greg: You can visit any place and peacefully walk on the streets. However, you can easily become a victim of pickpockets in the underground, so take care of your wallet and don’t keep a lot of cash on you.

Mary: Well, no surprise here. London is just the same. What would you say about the food? Is it much different from what we have here in the UK?

Greg: I’m sure you’ll find something to your liking. The only problem you can face is that they seldom have a menu in English.

Mary: Should I tip?

Greg: If you wish. Tipping is expected but not mandatory. In any case, check your bill before paying.

Mary: Which dishes did you like most of all?

Greg: Well, I thought soups were quite nice. Generally speaking, Russian cuisine is not spicy. I think you’ll like it.

Mary: Thank you, Greg. I’ll let you know about my impressions when I get back.

Greg: Okay. Have fun!

Mary: I will.

Lucy: Hi Jack! Good to see you! How did you spend your summer vacation?

Jack: Oh, I had a fantastic time! You know how much I like soccer…

Lucy: Don’t tell me you went to Moscow to the World Cup!

Jack: I sure did. And it was amazing!

Lucy: It must have cost you a fortune!

Jack: Well, the tickets were really expensive, but then everything else wasn’t that bad. And guess what! If you had a ticket to the game in another city, the train ride was free.

Lucy: Wow! What other cities did you go to?

Jack: Just St. Petersburg. But that was enough. I didn’t have time to see everything. That would have taken months. There’s just so much to see and explore there.

Lucy: How did you manage to get around? You don’t speak a word of Russian!

Jack: I didn’t need to. Everyone that I talked to spoke decent English. There were lots of English-⁠speaking volunteers around to help out if you had any troubles. And there were fans from all over the world, and most of them spoke English too.

Lucy: That’s so cool! So what did you think of Russia? Did it turn out to be any different from what you had expected?

Jack: Yes, it was completely different. I didn’t know that Russia was so modern. And I didn’t expect the people to be so friendly. I had always heard that Russians were gloomy and depressed. But everyone was smiling and happy and curious about us foreigners.

Lucy: What about Russian food? Did you like it?

Jack: Absolutely! That was the best part. I especially enjoyed eating piroshky.

Lucy: What’s that?

Jack: They are these delicious stuffed pies filled with things like cabbage, potatoes, mushrooms or meat. They are a kind of street food that you can find sold everywhere. They can also be sweet.

Lucy: That sounds yummy! Did you have time to do anything besides eating and watching the games?

Jack: I did. I visited 2 museums: the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow and the Russian Museum in St. Petersburg. I didn’t know anything about Russian art before, but now I understand I was missing out.

Lucy: I’m really envious. Isn’t it really hard to get a Russian visa?

Jack: Normally it is and can take a lot of time. But it was not required at all for those who wanted to visit the World Cup. All you had to get was a Fan ID, and that was incredibly fast and easy if you had a ticket to the games.

Lucy: No way!

Jack: I know, right? And guess what! I can visit Russia without a visa again till the end of this year using the same Fan ID card. In fact, I’m thinking about going to celebrate New Year’s Eve there. They say it’s the biggest holiday in Russia, even bigger than Christmas.

Lucy: That sounds like fun! But aren’t you afraid of the winter?

Jack: Not at all. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a white Christmas. In fact, I’ve made some Russian friends who promised to take me ice-⁠skating and skiing.

Lucy: Hey, if I started now, I’m sure I could get a Russian visa by December. Could we go together?

Jack: That sounds like a great idea!

Lucy: Where would we stay?

Jack: There are a lot of small hotels which are not that expensive. We’ll check them out on the Internet. Prices should be cheaper than during the World Cup.

Lucy: Oh, I’m so excited!

Jack: Me too! It’s a plan then!

Louise: Hi Giles! What’s up?

Giles: Hello Louise! Everything’s great. Can’t wait till summer vacation.

Louise: Do you have any special plans for the summer?

Giles: You bet! I’m going to Moscow!

Louise: Wow, Giles! I had no idea you were interested in Russia.

Giles: I’m not. I’m going to the XVI International Tchaikovsky Competition.

Louise: You amaze me! That’s an even bigger surprise. I had no idea you were into classical music!

Giles: I’m not. But my younger brother Tony is. He is a pianist. He goes to Juilliard School in New York and he is going to take part in the Tchaikovsky Competition. He was selected to go! Can you imagine?

Louise: That’s incredible!

Giles: I know, right? That was his childhood dream. He was always telling me about this Van Cliburn guy.

Louise: Who is Van Cliburn?

Giles: He was a Texan pianist who won the first prize at the very first Tchaikovsky Competition back in 1958. Tony knows every little thing about him.

Louise: It sounds like your brother is quite a fan. So, what are you going to do in Moscow while you are there besides going to the competition?

Giles: My main role, of course, is to help my brother and make sure he eats well, gets enough rest and provide him with moral support.

Louise: Oh, come on! I’m sure a university student can take care of himself. Isn’t there something in Moscow that you would like to see?

Giles: Actually, I’m very excited to see their air and space museum. It’s called the Museum of Cosmonautics.

Louise: That sounds cool!

Giles: I grew up in Washington, D.C., you see, and the National Air and Space Museum has always been my favorite out of all Smithsonian Institution museums. I spent all of my days off there.

Louise: I’ve never been to Washington, D.C. So what are you expecting to see in the air and space museum in Moscow?

Giles: I would love to see a replica of the Mir space station. I know you can actually go inside it and look around.

Louise: Sounds like you’ve got it all planned. Have you already got your visas and bought the tickets?

Giles: Oh, yes. We’re all ready to go. What are your plans for the summer?

Louise: As a matter of fact, I’m going to Paris. I’ve got a special grant for studying art in the Louvre.

Giles: That sounds fantastic! You are an art major, aren’t you, Louise?

Louise: That’s right. I’m learning book illustration and design. So, in Paris I will be focusing on 17th century book illustrations.

Giles: Wow! That’s so interesting! I guess, we’ll have something to talk about in September!

Louise: We sure will! Good luck to your brother! I hope he brings back a gold medal.

Giles: Thanks, Louise! Have a great trip!

Jennifer: Excuse me! Do you speak English by any chance?

Thomas: You are in luck! I’m American.

Jennifer: Oh, good!

Thomas: What can I help you with?

Jennifer: I’ve looked through all the rooms twice already. But I haven’t been able to find Malevich’s famous Black Square. Do you know where it is?

Thomas: As far as I know, it isn’t here, they moved it to a different gallery.

Jennifer: That can’t be right. My guidebook says right here that it is in the Tretyakov Gallery. This is the Tretyakov Gallery, isn’t it?

Thomas: Your guidebook’s right. It is in the Tretyakov Gallery, only it’s in a different building  — the one where all the modern art is. You see, there are several buildings for the Tretyakov Gallery. Confusing, isn’t it?

Jennifer: Well, are they connected or at least next to each other?

Thomas: Nope, not these two. They are pretty far apart. You will have to take the metro.

Jennifer: Well, that’s inconvenient, isn’t it!

Thomas: Why do you want to see it anyway? It’s just a black square. It’s boring. There are much better pictures in this building. In fact, this is my favourite gallery. I’m from Texas and the paintings of Shishkin really remind me of home.

Jennifer: Shishkin? Really? With all those pine trees and bears? I always thought Texas was a desert.

Thomas: That’s only the western part of Texas. Where I’m from is East Texas, close to the Louisiana border, and there are lots of pine forests there.

Jennifer: Wow, I didn’t know that. I’m from Boston.

Thomas: Boston, eh? That explains why you know so little about Texas. By the way, I’m Thomas.

Jennifer: Nice to meet you, Thomas, I’m Jennifer.

Thomas: Nice to meet you too. What are you doing in Moscow?

Jennifer: I study art at Emerson College. I’m writing a paper on Malevich, that’s why it’s so important for me to see it.

Thomas: You came all this way just to see a black square? Why didn’t you choose a more interesting painting for your paper?

Jennifer: Well, I may not know a lot about Texas, but I know a lot about art. Most people find Malevich’s Black Square boring. But they just don’t understand it. I find the philosophy and history behind the creation of the Black Square absolutely fascinating.

Thomas: Well, I guess there is more to it than meets the eye. Who am I to argue with an art specialist? I’m just an amateur and don’t really understand modern art. I much prefer Red Square to you Black Square. Have you been there yet?

Jennifer: Ha-⁠ha. Surprisingly, I haven’t yet. I just got here this morning and was so excited that I rushed here first thing.

Thomas: Well, if you like, I can take you there. It’s walking distance, just across the river.

Jennifer: That sounds great! I’d love to. After that you could come with me to see the Black Square and I can tell you all about it.

Thomas: Sounds like a plan! I always like to learn new things. And if you can make me excited about Malevich’s Black Square that would be something!

Jennifer: I’m really hungry, though. How about stopping by the museum cafeteria first?

Thomas: No-⁠no-⁠no! The food here is awful! I know a great restaurant overlooking Red Square.

Jennifer: It’s not too expensive, is it? I’m just a poor art student.

Thomas: No it’s pretty reasonable. In any case, it will be my treat. It’s not very often I get a personal guide for an art gallery.

Nickie: Excuse me?

Don: Yes?

Nickie: Do you know how to get to Andrews Residence Hall?

Don: Ah! You are a freshman!

Nickie: How did you guess?

Don: Only freshmen live in Andrews Hall. That was my dorm last year! And I’m on my way there right now. You can walk with me if you like. It’ll take some time.

Nickie: Really? How long?

Don: About seven minutes. Can I help you with your bags, by the way? They look heavy.

Nickie: Thank you! I didn’t realize it was so far away from all the other buildings on campus.

Don: Yeah, it does have a bad reputation of being far and isolated. But honestly, this is its only drawback. It’s the best dorm ever. I wish I could stay there all the four years.

Nickie: Well, that makes me feel a little better. What’s so good about it?

Don: Everything! First of all  — food! Glorious food! Many students who even live across campus will make the trek to Andrews Cafeteria for its pizza  — this is exactly what I’m doing now! And on weekends you will see the brunch lines spanning out the door. The breakfast burritos are just incredible, and their yogurt bar is out of this world.

Nickie: Sounds like I will have to make the trek across campus just to avoid the lines.

Don: Hey, don’t be so negative! You will have an advantage! If you live in Andrews, you do not have to step outside to get to the dining hall. So all these lines are not for you.

Nickie: Oh, ok! That’s sounds good. What are the other advantages?

Don: More spacious rooms, higher ceilings, two really big walk-⁠in closets in each room, and... oh! The best thing ever is that there is a sink inside the room! You don’t have to go to the common bathrooms to brush your teeth or get some water.

Nickie: Common bathrooms... Ugh... I guess, I’ll have to get used to that...

Don: You will. Another really cool advantage is Andrews Study.

Nickie: What’s that?

Don: A perfect place to study, write a paper or do a long reading. And it also has a printer. If you need silence to work  — that’s the place to go. Although... ha-⁠ha...

Nickie: What?

Don: Whatever is cooking in Andrews dining hall, its smell wafts up to Andrews Study. It can be quite distracting if you are hungry.

Nickie: That won’t be a problem. Sounds like I’ve been very lucky to get into Andrews Hall! No more complaints from me!

Don: Good! I’m Don, by the way. I’m majoring in chemistry.

Nickie: Nice to meet you! I’m Nickie. Short for Nicolette.

Don: Nice to meet you too! Have you decided on your major yet?

Nickie: No, I’m undecided. But I’m leaning towards computer science.

Don: Cool! It’s good that you only have to declare your major the second year, isn’t it? Well, here we are! Andrews Hall!

Nickie: Wow! It’s beautiful! Thank you for helping me!

Don: Any time! I’ll see you around Nickie!

Nickie: Bye!

Donald: Hi, Lucy! I haven’t seen you for a while! How are you doing?

Lucy: Oh hi, Donald! Good to see you! I’ve been away travelling the whole year.

Donald: Oh! So you’ve actually taken a gap year, have you?

Lucy: Yes! I decided to see the world before I started school again. I wanted some freedom and excitement.

Donald: Wow! I was also thinking about it, but in the end, I decided against it. Besides, I got accepted by a really good university.

Lucy: Oh! Congratulations! I wasn’t so lucky. So, rather than going to a college which was not my first choice, I decided it was a great chance for me to travel.

Donald: Sure! So how was it? Where did you go?

Lucy: Well, I’ve been to Kenya, India and Australia! And it was great!

Donald: No kidding! That’s half the world! Sounds like something from a Discovery channel program. How did you manage it? Wasn’t it terribly expensive?

Lucy: It would have been. If I had just traveled.

Donald: What did you do then?

Lucy: I worked. As a volunteer for different organizations. Mostly those that deal with sea pollution. I’ve collected so much plastic garbage last year, it features in practically every dream that I have now. The moment I lie down and close my eyes  — I’m back there, with my rubber gloves and mask on and tons of stinky garbage to collect.

Donald: Gosh! That sounds horrible! It must have been really hard work.

Lucy: Well, it was, and … it wasn’t. I did have some days off. And I did make good friends. And I’ll tell you, with a good joke and a hearty laugh with your friends, most disgusting piles of garbage can be bearable. Besides, I’ve seen such beautiful places! Especially when they were clean after our good work.

Donald: That’s amazing! I’m so impressed! I don’t think I would ever be able to do anything like that. I mean, I totally support the idea  — cleaning our planet of all that garbage and protecting wildlife and everything, but it is one thing to just support it in theory and do everyday things like recycling, and quite a different story when you actually go to all these places and do it.

Lucy: Speaking of wildlife! That was probably the most heartbreaking aspect of what I did. Sometimes we found little turtles and fish and sea birds in all that garbage, tangled in nets and unable to free themselves. Oftentimes we managed to save them, but not always.

Donald: Oh, that must have been hard!

Lucy: Yeah… Hey, Donald, I really need to hurry now, but I didn’t have a chance to ask you about your year at the university. Let’s meet for a coffee one of these days.

Donald: Sure! I’ll also bring my little brother Andy if you don’t mind. He’s so much into sea animals. He would be thrilled to hear your stories about saving them! How about tomorrow around 5 at the Never Late for Latte Coffee House?

Lucy: Perfect! I’ll see you there!

Donald: Bye!

Bertie: Hi, Julie! What’s up?

Julie: Oh hi, Bertie! Not a whole lot.

Bertie: Wait a minute! What is that you are carrying? Have you just bought a new computer? Is it the latest MacBook Pro that everyone is raving about?

Julie: Well, not everyone... but yes, I can’t wait to get home and turn it on!

Bertie: Wow! I’ll walk with you if you don’t mind. I’ve got so many questions! I was also going to buy a new computer for college. But this… Doesn’t it cost an arm and a leg?

Julie: Yup, almost 3 thousand bucks.

Bertie: Yikes! How did you persuade your parents to spend so much money on it?

Julie: Didn’t have to! It’s all my own money, hard earned. Blood, sweat and tears.

Bertie: No kidding! What did you do?

Julie: Honestly? Babysitting. For two years.

Bertie: Babysitting? Seriously? How did you find time for that in the last two years at school? What about exams and homework?

Julie: Well, two years ago our neighbours had twins, and it’s quite a job, raising two babies at once! So they like going to a restaurant or just for a walk in the evening, to relax, you know, once the babies fall asleep. But in fact, these are rather well-⁠behaved babies. They go to bed around 7 or 8 at night and sleep beautifully. I’ve never had any problems with them. So, actually, I had a lot of time to study.

Bertie: Right! Ok. So... tell me about this computer. Why did you choose this particular one? Is it really worth spending so much money on?

Julie: Well, you know the music videos that I make, right?

Bertie: Sure, I love them!

Julie: Those require a lot of serious sound and video editing if you want professional quality. This is exactly what I wanted this computer for.

Bertie: I see. So, I’m wondering… Is this a computer that I might need?

Julie: That depends. What do you want to use it for?

Bertie: Well, I do make an occasional video, but at my level I don’t think it requires such a powerful processor. I mostly use my computer for writing papers, surfing the Internet and playing games.

Julie: In that case, this is not a computer for you. There aren’t a lot of games that you can play on it. Besides, it doesn’t have any USB ports, so if you want to use anything that requires that connection you would have to have adaptors.

Bertie: Right! Now I’m sure that I want a simpler and cheaper computer. I’ll have to figure out which one to buy. But at least I know what not to buy! Thank you!

Julie: No problem. Well, here I am!

Bertie: Have fun with your new computer, Julie!

Julie: Thanks, Bertie! Bye!

Stephen: Hi Jennifer! How’s it going?

Jennifer: Stephen! Hi! Well, that’s a surprise. I didn’t expect to see you here!

Stephen: Ha-⁠ha! Let me guess. You thought I wasn’t interested in art  — right? And that I never spent my week-⁠ends in picture galleries.

Jennifer: Something along those lines. I thought you were mostly interested in extreme sports and video games. I guess, I was wrong!

Stephen: No you weren’t. I was just kidding. I’m here today only because there’s a children’s art exhibition and Charlie’s picture is one of those that have been selected.

Jennifer: Charlie’s! That’s your younger brother! Congratulations!

Stephen: Thanks. I promised Charlie to come  — and here I am! In fact, we all are, all my family. My elder sister, my parents and myself.

Jennifer: That’s really nice of you, Stephen.

Stephen: I know. But Charlie deserves it. And what brings you here?

Jennifer: Oh, I come here quite often. I love this gallery. It’s not only exhibitions that they have, they also have concerts and lectures. I’ve come to a concert today.

Stephen: I bet it’s not the kind of concert that I would like.

Jennifer: Probably not. It’s classical music.

Stephen: I remember that you yourself play some instrument. Is it the piano? Or the violin?

Jennifer: Actually, I play the guitar.

Stephen: No kidding! That’s so cool!

Jennifer: Yeah.

Stephen: Listen, Jennifer. When does your concert begin? Do you have a minute or two?

Jennifer: Let me see what time it is. Oh, I have plenty of time. 15 minutes at least. Why?

Stephen: I’d really like to buy something for Charlie as a gift. Look, here’s a souvenir shop. Could you help me choose something for him?

Jennifer: Sure! They have really nice sets of coloured pencils and paints.

Stephen: He has plenty of those.

Jennifer: Ok... May be an art album? Or a back-⁠pack?

Stephen: I’m afraid I don’t have enough money for those.

Jennifer: Right. Well, If I were to choose a gift for myself, I’d probably buy one of these pencil cases with a reproduction of a painting. But they have sold all the pretty ones, and these are kind of ugly. Hey! How about a poster? Do you know if he has a favourite artist?

Stephen: Um… He’s a great admirer of Leonardo da Vinci.

Jennifer: Here you go! How about this cool poster with Leonardo’s flying machines?

Stephen: Oh, Jennifer, this is perfect! I owe you one!

Jennifer: Not a problem! Say hello to your brother for me. And now I need to run. Bye!

Martin: Hi, Denise! Long time no see!

Denise: Oh, Martin, hi! Good to see you back on campus again! How are you? How was your summer?

Martin: Not too bad. I had the whole month of June to have fun and visit my grandparents who live in Florida.

Denise: Oh, nice! Do they live on the seashore?

Martin: Yes they do! Visiting them has been the highlight of my summers since I was a kid. That’s where I learnt to swim, to dive and to surf.

Denise: No kidding! You are a surfer?

Martin: Yes I am.

Denise: This is so cool! I only had 2 weeks to really relax.

Martin: Why is that?

Denise: I had to work. I applied for an internship and got accepted by a really good publishing company.

Martin: A publishing company! That’s right, you want to work in book publishing when you graduate, right?

Denise: Well, this is my dream. I’m not sure if it’ll come true, though.

Martin: So what was your internship? What did you do?

Denise: All sorts of things  — which was actually good, because I learnt so much about how a publishing house works. In the 3 months that I worked there, I had the chance to take a look at different departments and how a book is prepared for publishing.

Martin: Did they pay you? Did you have a proper salary?

Denise: Yes, it was a paid internship. Good companies do pay their interns these days, you know. It’s considered the right thing to do.

Martin: You bet it’s the right thing to do! Getting experience is great, of course, but slaving away all summer for just experience doesn’t sound that good.

Denise: It’s not like my salary was huge, but good enough. So I’m very happy.

What about you? Didn’t you get an internship?

Martin: I tried. But I guess I applied too late and wasn’t accepted anywhere. So I just helped my dad in his company.

Denise: What does he do?

Martin: He’s in real estate. He buys and sells houses.

Denise: But aren’t you majoring in business administration? This kind of work was a sort of internship for you.

Martin: Yeah, I guess it was. It just wasn’t that exciting  — working for my dad.

I’ve done that before. I wanted something new, you know.

Denise: Well, maybe next year you’ll have more luck.

Martin: I hope so.

Denise: Well, it was good seeing you! I guess, I’ll see you around. I need to run to class now.

Martin: Sure! Bye!

Derek: Hi, Linda! Welcome back to campus after the spring break! Hm! That’s an old notebook you are reading!

Linda: Hi, Derek! Yeah, it’s... really old. It’s um... I’m er...

Derek: Are you ok, Linda? You look kind of strange.

Linda: No, no, I’m fine! It’s just that I’m... sort of shocked.

Derek: What’s the matter?

Linda: See this notebook? I visited my grandma over the spring break, we talked about so many different things, I really enjoyed the visit. Then the morning I was leaving back for the university, she gave me this notebook and said that it belonged to her grandmother. She wanted me to read it.

Derek: Wow! So, what is it?

Linda: It’s her diary. She kept it when she was 19, exactly my age! Only it was during the roaring 20s!

Derek: No way! The 1920s? That’s incredible!

Linda: I know! I was just reading how she went to a concert where George Gershwin performed, and she describes every detail and calls him a rising star!

Derek: No kidding! George Gershwin? The "Summertime" George Gershwin? The "Porgy and Bess" George Gershwin?

Linda: Yup! The very same.

Derek: Wow! What a coincidence! I’m writing a paper on George Gershwin and his music. Do you think you could…

Linda: Make a copy of my great-⁠great-⁠grandmother’s diary page where she writes about him? Yes, I guess I could.

Derek: That would be invaluable. I mean, there are articles about him and his music in the old newspapers, but they are written by critics. This is something different! A first-⁠person testimony by somebody like you and me.

Linda: I know. I’ll make a photocopy and send it to you.

Derek: Thanks!

Linda: How are your studies coming along, by the way? Will there be any concerts this term?

Derek: Yes, several. My piano professor is really good about organizing them. One of them will be this coming Saturday in the Student Center. Would you like to come? It’s free.

Linda: I sure would. What will it be?

Derek: In the beginning there will be a string quartet playing some Vivaldi, then I will do a piano solo playing several short pieces by Mozart, and in the end, there will be vocal music, songs from different musicals, including some by George Gershwin!

Linda: Will you be playing the piano when they sing?

Derek: Yes, I will do the accompaniment.

Linda: Fantastic! What time does the concert begin?

Derek: 4 pm.

Linda: I will definitely come and bring some of my friends!

Derek: Great! See you there!

Linda: See you!

Now we are ready to start.

Benjy: Hi, Maggie! How's it going? Are you getting used to university life?

Maggie: Hi, Benjy! Yeah, sort of. And you?

Benjy: Oh, I'm doing great. I can't believe I'm living on my own, no parent control  — freedom!

Maggie: Yes, that's nice. Although I do feel a little homesick. I especially miss my little brother. And my room. But more than anything, I miss our subway!

Benjy: Are you kidding? There are tons of Subway restaurants here in Austin! I also love their sandwiches.

Maggie: I didn't mean the restaurant. I'm from New York  — remember? I miss the public transportation system.

Benjy: No way! Isn't it supposed to be exceptionally dirty and dangerous?

Maggie: It used to be. But now it's significantly improved. We New Yorkers love it.

Benjy: Still, I would never trade a drive in my truck for a subway ride! Again  — freedom! In my truck I feel I can go anywhere in the world!

Maggie: Lucky you!

Benjy: What - you don't like driving?

Maggie: To be honest  — I don't even have a driver's license.

Benjy: What? How did that happen? I got mine as soon as I turned 16! My little sister is 15, and our dad has been teaching her for almost a year now. She is one little daredevil on parking lots. Can't wait till she can hit the real road!

Maggie: In New York it never even occurred to me to get the license. With all the traffic jams and the public transportation, you don't need a car.

Benjy: Why did you even apply to the University of Texas, then? Texas is all about long roads.

Maggie: I know. I wanted to come here. My granny lives not far from San

Antonio. I wanted to be closer to her. And actually, I'm already taking driving lessons.

Benjy: That's the way to go! How do you like them?

Maggie: Well, I'm really good at maneuvering, I'm great at parallel parking...

Benjy: You are all set then! That's the hardest part!

Maggie: But... I'm terrified of driving fast. I cannot even imagine myself going on a highway. 75 miles per hour? It's just crazy!

Benjy: Hey, don't worry, all you need is practice. As soon as you get used to it, it will be fun.

Maggie: So I've heard.

Benjy: Listen, I've got a plan. You can drive my truck every evening. I'll coach you. Just half an hour a day, and in a couple of weeks you will gain all the confidence you need. Trust me.

Maggie: Really?

Benjy: How about we start tonight? I'll pick you up at 6 near your dorm.

Maggie: Oh, we could drive to the Subway restaurant in downtown Austin! My treat!

Benjy: Deal!

Winston: Hi, can I help you?

Patricia: Yes, please! I'm looking for a textbook called Chemistry by Richard Grant that is required for Professor Carroll's 110 Chemistry class.

Winston: Oh, I know exactly where to find it! You are not the first one looking for it today!

Patricia: I'm sure I'm not. We had the first class yesterday.

Winston: Here you are. On this upper shelf you can find all the new books. They are a bit pricey, I'm afraid. And here below them are the used ones.

Patricia: I would probably buy the used one. How much are they?

Winston: The used ones are from 50 to a hundred dollars, depending on their condition. The new ones are 300 dollars each. But you can bring them back at the end of the semester and our bookstore will buy them from you.

Patricia: Three hundred dollars! No, I can't afford that. Besides, I understand it's a really good textbook with a lot of reference material that will come in handy later as well, if you are a chemistry major. So, I wouldn't want to get rid of it at the end of the course.

Winston: You are a chemistry major! I thought your face looked really familiar. I think we live in the same dorm. I'm Winston. I'm majoring in physics.

Patricia: Nice to meet you, Winston. I'm Patricia. I also seem to recognise you. Isn't it you who makes bacon and eggs in the 2-⁠nd floor kitchen every morning?

Winston: Yes, it is! Do you like bacon and eggs?

Patricia: I do like eggs, but to be honest - I don't really like the smell of bacon.

Winston: Who doesn't like the smell of bacon?! Especially in the morning?

Patricia: Sorry. Hey, look at this book! Is it the same Chemistry textbook that I need? It doesn't have a cover.

Winston: Actually, it is. And it is in pretty good condition, all the pages are in place. It's just the hard cover that's missing. And it costs … let me see … only forty bucks! Cheaper than the other used books!

Patricia: Forty dollars! Oh, I'll buy it. I know how to make a new hard cover for a book. I took a book-⁠binding elective in high school, and I love doing it.

Winston: There you go, then! Let's go to the register and I will sell it to you.

Patricia: Thank you! So, how do you like working in the university bookstore? I was also thinking of getting a job on campus. But I haven't chosen anything yet.

Winston: I like it! It is possible to have a flexible schedule, and they pay pretty well. So, if you like talking to people and helping them find books, it's quite rewarding. I'm a big extravert, myself! I love to be among people!

Patricia: Cool! I'll think about it. So, here's the money.

Winston: And here's your receipt and your book. Do you need a bag for it?

Patricia: No, I'll just put it in my backpack. Thank you!

Winston: And thank you for shopping here! I guess, I'll see you in the dorm kitchen! Bye, Patricia!

Patricia: Yeah, see you, Winston!

Now we are ready to start.

Eric: Hi Miranda! What's this monstrosity you are carrying? It looks heavy. Can I give you a hand?

Miranda: Oh, hi! Thank you, Eric! I think I've overestimated my weight-⁠lifting capacity.

Eric: Woah! It's certainly a 2-⁠person job! What is this?

Miranda: It's a folding table. I'm carrying it to St. Valentine's arts and crafts fair that's organised by the Arts Department of our university. Arts majors sell a lot of cool things there that they make themselves  — paintings and posters, but also things they make out of glass and wood in their amazing workshops. Perfect presents for St. Valentine's Day  — which is already next week! Have you bought anything for Jennifer yet?

Eric: No... I have a problem coming up with the right idea.

Miranda: There you go! The ideas will be all around you, all you'll need to do is choose! Which, to be honest, can be hard, too. I personally tend to want to buy everything they have!

Eric: Cool. But wait a second. None of this makes any sense. Why are you carrying a table to a fair?

Miranda: Because it is not only arts majors that are allowed to sell things at this fair. I will be selling earrings!

Eric: Earrings? You make earrings?

Miranda: I do! I love making them!

Eric: How do you make them?

Miranda: Some of them I carve from wood and then paint, some of them are acrylic.

Eric: How do you make anything out of acrylic?

Miranda: We have fantastic 3D printers and laser cutters at the Physics Department, and as a physics major, I have access to them and the right to use them, as long as I bring my own materials.

Eric: Wow! Earrings made with 3D printers and laser cutters! How much do you sell your earrings for? Jennifer loves earrings!

Miranda: I sell mine for 15 dollars. But you need to see them first! See if you like them! Don't feel obliged to buy them just because we are friends.

Eric: OK.

Miranda: So here we are! I think I will set up my table right here.

Eric: How do you unfold it?

Miranda: You pull those legs, and I will pull these... Good. Now, fix them with those metal things... And now let's set it upright  — on the count of three. One, two three! Done! All set! Thank you so much, Eric!

Eric: Not a problem. So, when will the fair open? It looks like everyone is busy setting up their tables.

Miranda: Let me see  — in 20 minutes.

Eric: Oh, good! I have time to go and grab a cup of coffee, then!

Miranda: Yes, you do!

Eric: I'll be right back. See you soon, then, Miranda!

Miranda: See you, Eric!

Emma: Hi, Jason! I haven't seen you for ages! How are you?

Jason: Oh, hi, Emma! It's so good to see you. I'm great. How about you?

Emma: Oh, I'm fine. So, how are your summer holidays? As for me, I'm just bored. I've watched all the films I wanted to see and read all the books I wanted to read. I simply have nothing to do.

Jason: You can join a gym or find a summer job then. That will keep you busy enough, I'm sure.

Emma: Well, I'm thinking of getting a part-⁠time job for the summer, but I haven't made up my mind yet. So, coming back to you. What have you been doing so far?

Jason: Well, I haven't been up to anything interesting recently, but next week my adventure will begin. I'm looking forward to it so much.

Emma: An adventure? That sounds exciting! What are you going to do?

Jason: I'm going on an expedition to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. The aim of the expedition is to observe the everyday life of local people, but there will be opportunities for trekking and bird watching.

Emma: It sounds great! I guess it was not so easy to be accepted to this expedition group. Did they have many special requirements?

Jason: I can't say there were too many requirements. One has to be reasonably fit and prefer mountain huts to grand hotels. They were looking for people with some useful skills, like cooking, first aid or photography.

Emma: I didn't know you could cook very well.

Jason: I can't cook, Emma. I'm absolutely helpless in the kitchen. However, I am a very good photographer. I also speak French, and fluent French speakers were also needed.

Emma: Do you need to take any special equipment?

Jason: All the necessary equipment will be provided, but I do have a list of things I have to have. It's quite long and detailed, so it took me a while to get them all.

Emma: I see. Well, Jason, I hope you have a great trip. I expect you to take thousands of pictures of Morocco. They will be very colourful and bright, I'm sure. Will you post them on the social media?

Jason: I'd love to, but I'm not sure about that. I don't know if I'll be able to have an Intemet connection during my expedition. I expect to be offline for at least some part of my trip.

Emma: You'll show me the pictures when you come back then. I'm longing to see them already. How long are you going for?

Jason: It's three weeks. I'll give you a call as soon as I come back. We'll meet for a coffee and I'll tell you everything about Morocco, ok?

Emma: It's a date then!

Hannah: Hey, Zack! Zack! Hello!

Zack: Oh! Hi, Hannah! Sorry! I wasn't watching where I was going. Daydreaming I guess…

Hannah: What's up, Zack? How's your vacation? Have you found a summer job? You look kind of... tired.

Zack: Yeah... Things are... I don't know...

Hannah: Tell me!

Zack: I did find a summer job. At Michael's.

Hannah: The huge hobby shop? I love it! I always buy home decorations there. What do you do there?

Zack: I work in their framing department. People bring their paintings and photos and sometimes T-⁠shirts signed by celebrities, and I make special frames for them.

Hannah: Cool! I have a painting I would like to frame. Maybe I should go to Michael's!

Zack: It costs an arm and a leg there. There's nothing cheaper than 200 dollars.

Hannah: Whoa! They must pay you really well there, then!

Zack: No! They only pay me 10 dollars an hour. And they always change my work-⁠ing hours. I cannot plan anything. And you know me  — I love art, I love making frames, I thought I would really enjoy this job, but what I do doesn't require much creativity. Besides, clients are often very rude.

Hannah: This is horrible, Zack! I'm so sorry! Hey, do you like bubble tea? How about we go to this café and talk there? My treat!

Zack: I love bubble tea! But you don't have to pay for me.

Hannah: I won't! This is where I work. And... I'm allowed to have two free drinks on my shift days. I always come to work half an hour early to take advantage of it! So, now I have... let's see... 25 minutes to talk to you before my work begins.

Zack: Wow! How much do they pay you here?

Hannah: Well, my official salary is even less than yours - it's 9 dollars per hour, but we get a lot of tips, so with the tips it comes up to between 13 and 15 dollars an hour, depending on how busy we are.

Zack: You are so lucky!

Hannah: I know! But hey, we are understaffed. Why don't you talk to our manager? I'm sure they would be happy to hire a hard-⁠working person like you! I would intro-⁠duce you!

Zack: You would? I'm ready to quit Michael's any time.

Hannah: Great! Besides, our café is also an improvised gallery. We have paintings by local artists on the walls and somebody needs to take care of them  — framing them and hanging them in the right places. You could do that as well.

Zack: That’s my dream job! I want to be a curator in a museum someday.

Hannah: There you go! It's settled then! Let's go inside!

Zack: Let's! Thank you, Hannah!

Now we are ready to start.

Brian: Knock-⁠knock! Is anyone home?

Mrs. Mitchel: Coming! Just a second! Oh! Hello?

Brian: Hi! I’m Brian. Your new neighbor. And this is for you.

Mrs. Mitchel: What is this? Muffins! How kind! Thank you!

Brian: You are welcome.

Mrs. Mitchel: Oh! So, this is who my friend Becky rented her house to!

Brian: Yes! Becky is my landlady. She told me about you. Mrs. Mitchel, right?

Mrs. Mitchel: You can call me Barbara. So, what brings you to Whitehall, Michigan, Brian?

Brian: I’ve just received my Master's Degree from the University of Arizona.

Mrs. Mitchel: You’ve come here from Arizona? From a desert to a place which gets very cold in winter? Get ready for tons of snow!

Brian: I don’t mind. I think it’ll be fun. I’ve found a good job here. In fact, it was the best job offer out of all that I had. I decided I could deal with the snow for a good salary.

Mrs. Mitchel: Sure! What kind of job is that?

Brian: I majored in engineering. And I found a job at the Howmet Aerospace factory.

Mrs. Mitchel: Good for you! Well, in that case, welcome to Michigan, Brian! It’s too bad my husband and our twin boys are not at home. They left early in the morning to go fishing. Our sons are 17. They will be seniors at high school next year. I’m sure they will be thrilled to get to know you. They love everything technical.

Brian: I would be happy to meet them, too. I went to lake Michigan earlier today hoping to swim. But the water was so cold that I went into the water up to my knees and then couldn’t make myself go any further. Right next to me there were two little girls splashing around and swimming as if it were a waterpark. These little girls really put me to shame. I don’t know how they did it!

Mrs. Mitchel: It comes with practice. This is not Arizona, and you won’t find cowboys here, but Michigan is the land of big and tough people. Lumberjacks. In sunny weather like today, Lake Michigan with its sandy dunes may look like a beach in Florida or Hawai'i, but most of the time, it’s cold. You won’t find it comfortable to swim in until August. But there are very many small lakes around that are already warm enough to swim in. And they are also full of fish. This is where my family went today  — to one of these lakes.

Brian: I see. I will need to explore more. I only arrived two days ago.

Mrs. Mitchel: Listen, Brian! Why don’t you join us for dinner tonight? We will have freshly caught fish and then your muffins for dessert, and I will also make a cherry pie  — our Michigan specialty! July is our cherry season.

Brian: Wow! Thank you! What time should I come?

Mrs. Mitchel: Come around 7.

Brian: Great! See you tonight, Barbara!

Mrs. Mitchel: See you!

Now we are ready to start.

Fred: Cordelia! Hi! Long time no see!

Cordelia: Oh! Hi, Fred! Good to see you! How’s your first day of school?

Fred: I wish it was still summer!

Cordelia: Me too! Are you on your way to the cafeteria?

Fred: Yes! It’s my lunchtime.

Cordelia: Good! So, we’ll catch up on all our news while eating.

Fred: Hey, I was really surprised not to see you in any of my morning classes. I thought you changed schools or something.

Cordelia: No, I’m still here. And I think we’ll have a class or two together after lunch. Who’s your US History teacher?

Fred: Mrs. Wyatt.

Cordelia: Same here. What about English 3?

Fred: Mrs. Mitchell, I think.

Cordelia: Yes! We will have two classes together, then.

Fred: Just two? Last year we had four classes together. What are you taking in the morning?

Cordelia: Government, Statistics and English 4.

Fred: Wait a second! These are all Senior classes. We are only Juniors!

Cordelia: Fred, I have something to tell you. I decided to graduate a year early. I

took all the obligatory classes in the first two years of high school. I had very few left. So, why spend another year at school? I’d rather have a gap year before university.

Fred: Wow! I didn’t know this was even a possibility. But… even if I did… I don’t mind school. Besides, you know me. I’m not the university type. Cars are my passion. All I want is to become a good auto mechanic. If I pass all my Automotive Technology class exams while I’m in high school, I will get an industry certificate, and I won’t have to study in college for too long. School is free, college is not. I don’t have much money to pay for college.

Cordelia: You have a great plan! I’m all for it! Hack the system while you can, get the most out of it. Did you choose any fun classes besides Automotive Technology?

Fred: Promise not to laugh?

Cordelia: Don’t scare me.

Fred: I took golf.

Cordelia: What?

Fred: I had to choose a PE class. I chose golf.

Cordelia: I don’t believe it. You are a superb baseball player! Did you forget?

Fred: I play baseball anyway. I’m part of the school team. But I wanted to try golf.

Cordelia: Why? Didn’t you call it a silly game for rich people?

Fred: I did. So, it’s very unlikely that I will ever play it in real life. Have you ever seen a rich mechanic? But here at school  — it’s free. And they even teach you! It’s the same hack-⁠the-⁠system technique. I was just curious.

Cordelia: That’s so funny! But good for you!

Fred: I don’t think you have any fun classes if you are graduating a year early.

Cordelia: No, unfortunately, not a single one. Hard work and no play. But it’s worth it.

Fred: Sure is. Oh! The bell is in two minutes. Off to English 3?

Cordelia: Off to English 3!

Now we are ready to start.

Adam: Hi, Julie! Long time, no see! How are things?

Julie: Oh, hi, Adam! I’m fine, thank you, and how about you?

Adam: The same. So, our summer holidays have just begun. What are you going to do this summer? Have you made any plans yet?

Julie: Well, I’m thinking of going to an art school, but I’m not sure. What do you think?

Adam: An art school? Are you interested in art? I didn’t know that.

Julie: You see, I’ve always dreamed of learning to draw, but I never had enough time to take up drawing. This summer I’m not going to work and I’ve got a lot of time on my hands, so I thought it would be a nice opportunity for me to make my childhood dream come true.

Adam: Go ahead then. What’s stopping you from doing it?

Julie: On one hand, an art school has a lot of experienced teachers who can explain to me the basics of drawing. On the other hand, an art school can turn out to be boring and rigid.

Adam: Well, you’ve definitely got a point there, Julie. Art is very personal, in my opinion. If you don’t like the teachers, or find the atmosphere there too academic, it can put you off drawing forever, and that’s not what you want.

Julie: Adam, that’s exactly what I mean. I believe art classes should encourage creativity and self-⁠expression. At the same time, I do need some academic basics, don’t I?

Adam: I don’t know. You can start with some abstract art. It doesn’t require any formal education. I’ve seen some fluid art pictures and abstract watercolour paintings. They are awesome.

Julie: Watercolours are just not my cup of tea. I’d rather start with graphics. It doesn’t require any expensive materials. In fact, you can start with a drawing pad and some pens.

Adam: I haven’t thought about it. Watercolour and fluid art materials do cost a fortune. Well, Julie, I think you should start with some proper classes then. If I were you, I’d call several art schools to find out if they offer the first class for free. At least you would see if the school atmosphere is suitable for you.

Julie: That’s a great idea, Adam! Thank you so much for your suggestion!

Adam: If you find such a school, drop me a line and let me know about it. I may join you for your first class, if you don’t mind. Who knows? Maybe we’ll have an art exhibition for the two of us one day.

Julie: You are joking, Adam. I don’t know how to draw at all. Okay, let’s go to an art class together. We can share our impressions afterwards.

Adam: It’s a date then. You have 15 seconds to complete the task. (Pause 15 seconds.) Now you will hear the text again. (Repeat.) This is the end of the task. You now have 15 seconds to check your answers. (Pause 15 seconds.)

Bruno: Hi, Agnes! Good to see you! I can see you've been shopping all morning! Look at all these brand name bags from various sports shops that you have!

Agnes: Hi, Bruno! Yes! The school year is about to begin, and I've just noticed I have nothing to wear for PE class! So, I've bought some sneakers and T-shirts and leggings. What else?... Oh, yeah! Running shoes!

Bruno: Cool! You are well-equipped! Do you like PE class, then?

Agnes: Not really. I don't know about you, but I find it kind of strange to exercise at school, even though we've been doing it for so many years. Outside of school, however, I love any kind of physical activity. Name anything  — yoga, skating, swimming, aerobics, jogging in the morning  — I'm game!

Bruno: How about rock climbing?

Agnes: Rock climbing! That's something I've never tried before. I've heard about it, though. My cousins are crazy about it, and when we meet, we always agree to go together one day, but it hasn't happened yet. Are you into rock climbing?

Bruno: Oh yeah! I've done it since I was in elementary school. My dad and my elder brothers love it. I was the little one in the family, but they always dragged me along with them. First, to those climbing and bouldering gyms that you find everywhere now. That's probably where your cousins go. And then to natural hills.

Agnes: Wow! Can you climb really big mountains?

Bruno: No, that's a different sport called mountaineering or alpinism. It's too advanced and dangerous for us. You are probably thinking of people ascending Mount Everest or something like that.

Agnes: Yes! And I do know it's dangerous. You hear all sorts of scary stories about it.

Bruno: Yeah... So, no, we don't do that. Just good old rock climbing in the local hills, which is also quite challenging!

Agnes: Oh, I bet! I know I wouldn't last a minute!

Bruno: Wanna try? I'm on my way to a bouldering gym right now. You can join me. I've got an annual membership there, and I can take a guest for free once a month. It's the end of August, and I haven't taken anyone yet.

Agnes: Oh! Now! That's unexpected... You said bouldering? What's the difference between bouldering and rock climbing?

Bruno: In bouldering the walls are smaller but there are no ropes.

Agnes: No ropes! So,... if you fall  — you fall right on the floor?

Bruno: The floor is soft. And the walls are not high. Besides, there are different levels of difficulty. You can begin with the one meant for children.

Agnes: Sounds tempting! I don't know...

Bruno: Look. It's just across the street in that building over there. You can do it for as long as you wish. If you get tired in 15 minutes, you can go home or watch me climbing. And  — you've got the right kind of clothes with you!

Agnes: That's true! But don't you need some special kind of shoes?

Bruno: You can rent them there. And it'll be free, since you are a guest.

Agnes: You know what? I'm in! You've convinced me!

Bruno: Great! Let's go!

Agnes: Let's go!

Now we are ready to start.

Josh: Hi, Peggy! Back to school for the last term, huh?

Peggy: Hi, Josh! Yes! How was your spring break?

Josh: Very disappointing. I had so many great plans to spend my spring break outside - you know, fishing, playing soccer, that kind of stuff. And look at the weather! Why does it rain so much here in spring? Isn't spring supposed to be nice and sunny? And it's also so windy! Even November was better.

Peggy: Don't you know? April showers bring May flowers!

Josh: Yeah, yeah… Well, you seem to be in a good mood. How was your spring break?

Peggy: Fabulous!

Josh: How can staying home for a week be fabulous?

Peggy: Who said I stayed home?

Josh: Well, inside. Where did you go? A library?

Peggy: And why wouldn't going to a library be fabulous?

Josh: I don't know. So, is that what you did?

Peggy: Actually, no. I spent four days of the week at a Comic Con.

Josh: A Comic Con? Wow! I've never been to one. What exactly is it? Isn't it kind of like Halloween? People wearing costumes and stuff?

Peggy: Well, in a way, yes. People do wear costumes of their favourite characters.

Josh: From comic books?

Peggy: Not necessarily. Comic books, yes, but also films, video games and fantasy books.

Josh: So, what costume did you wear?

Peggy: Oh, I was an Abhorsen from Garth Nix's trilogy.

Josh: Never heard of it. Anyway, so you cosplay as a character. What else is there to do?

Peggy: Lots of things! You can buy art inspired by books, films and games. Publishers bring the newest books, sometimes even before their official release. There are book signings, Q&A sessions with authors and panels dedicated to different books and films. There are also conferences with actors, costume competitions, and just a lot of people talking to each other, playing board games and having fun. It's a big festival where everyone is happy.

Josh: So, is it mostly for teenagers?

Peggy: Oh, no! All sorts of people! That's probably what I liked most about it. You should have seen it - young and old, big and small, men and women, sometimes even very elderly people, whole families with little kids, big serious-looking men - all wearing costumes and not afraid of looking silly. Just totally enjoying themselves.

Josh: Wow! That sounds like fun! How often do they have it?

Peggy: Once a year.

Josh: Okay. Maybe next year I'll go too. It certainly sounds better than fishing in the rain and feeling miserable.

Peggy: Most definitely!

You have 15 seconds to complete the task. (Pause 15 seconds.)

Now you’ll hear the text again. (Repeat.)

This is the end of the task. You now have 15 seconds to check your answers.

(Pause 15 seconds.)

Now we are ready to start.

Peter: Hi, Jane! Long time, no see! You look gorgeous – you’ve got a great tan. I bet you’ve just come back from a vacation.

Jane: Oh, hi, Peter. Yes, you’re right. I’ve just come back from Italy. I was there with my parents. I spent two wonderful weeks there.

Peter: Oh, how lucky you are! I’ve never been to Italy. Did you stay in one place, or did you travel around the country?

Jane: We travelled from city to city because my parents wanted to see as much as possible. We had a great time, but there was so much to see and do that by the end of our trip we were exhausted!

Peter: What place did you like most of all?

Jane: No doubt, it was Pompeii. Pompeii is the city that disappeared when the local volcano, Mount Vesuvius, erupted in AD 79.

Peter: Why would someone decide to build a city near a volcano?

Jane: Well, Peter, at the time, people thought the volcano was a mountain, and so no one was worried about living next to it. They didn’t realize their mistake until it exploded and volcanic ash started falling on top of the city. By then it was too late.

Soon a thick layer of ash covered the houses and the people inside them.

Peter: How awful! Many people must have died in the disaster.

Jane: Well, in 1748 the buried city was found. Since then, archaeologists have uncovered about two thirds of the city. We got the train to Pompeii from the station here in Naples. It only took us half an hour.

Peter: I bet a tour to Pompeii costs a fortune.

Jane: Not really. The tickets were really cheap – only €1.80 for a single! We joined a tour group when we arrived at the entrance.

Peter: Look, Jane, how about the language barrier? You don’t speak Italian, do you?

Jane: Unfortunately, I don’t speak Italian, though I’ve always wanted to learn this beautiful language. Luckily, our guide spoke good English.

Peter: When you travel to an interesting place, much depends on your guide. Was yours good?

Jane: She was fantastic. She showed us lots of things that weren’t in the guide

book, which was really good.

Peter: What did you see in Pompeii?

Jane: I saw the amphitheater, the baths, the forum, and some of the most important houses.

Peter: What did you like best about your visit?

Jane: Well, I really managed to get an insight into Roman life nearly two thousand years ago. You know I want to be a historian, so that was important for me.

Peter: I see. Thank you, Jane. You’ve made me want to go to Italy too!

You have 15 seconds to complete the task. (Pause 15 seconds.)

Now you will hear the text again. (Repeat.)

This is the end of the task. You now have 15 seconds to check your answers.

(Pause 15 seconds.)