001: Difficult Customer

A: Good evening. My name is Fabio, I’ll be your waiter for tonight. May I take your order?
B: No, I’m still working on it. This menu is not even in English. What’s good here?
A: For you sir, I would recommend spaghetti and meatballs.
B: Does it come with coke and fries?
A: It comes with either soup or salad and a complimentary glass of wine, Sir.
B: I’ll go with the spaghetti and meatballs, salad and the wine.
A: Excellent choice, your order will be ready soon.
B: How soon is soon?
A: Twenty minutes?
B: You know what? I’ll just go grab a burger across the street.

002: Calling In Sick

A: Hello, Daniel speaking, how may I help you?
B: Hi, Daniel, Julie here.
A: Hi, Julie, how are you?
B: Actually, I’m feeling quite ill today.
A: I’m sorry to hear that. What’s wrong?
B: I think I’m coming down with the flu. I have a headache, a sore throat a runny nose and I’m feeling slightly feverish.
A: I see… so you’re calling in sick?
B: Yes, I was hoping to take the day off to recover.
A: OK, then. Try and get some rest.

003: Hotel Upgrade

A: Good afternoon. What can I do for you?
B: I’d like to check in please. I have a reservation under the name Anthony

Roberts.
A: All right R.O.B.E.R.T.S… Oh, Mr. Roberts we’ve been expecting you& and here is your keycard to the presidential suite.

B: But there must be some mistake; my reservation was for a standard room.

A: Are you sure? Let me double check .
B: Yeah&Here, this is my confirmation number.
A: You’re right Mr. Roberts, there seems to be a mix-up, unfortunately we’re overbooked at the moment .

B: So…
A: Not to worry. We’re pleased to offer you a complimentary upgrade.

B: Presidential suite baby!

004: The Office - I need an assistant!

A: …like I told you before, we just don’t have the resources to hire you an assistant.
B: I understand that, but the fact is we’re understaffed.
A: The timing is just not right. The economy is bad, and it’s too risky to take on new staff.
B: Yeah, I guess you’re right…. here’s an idea, what if we hire an intern? She would take some of the weight off my shoulders.
A: She?
B: Yeah, you know, a recent graduate. She could give me a hand with some of these projects and we could keep our costs down.
A: That sounds reasonable… let me see what I can do.
A: Tony, I’d like to introduce you to your new assistant.
B: OK, great! Let’s meet her!
C: Hi, I’m Adam.
B: Oh… hi… I’m Tony…

005: Daily Life - Cut In Line

A: I can’t believe it took us two hours to get here. The traffic in New York is unbelievable.
B: Yeah, but just relax honey, we’re here and we’re going on vacation. In a few hours we’ll be in Hawaii, and you’ll be on the golf course.
A: Oh no! Look at that line! It must be a mile long! There’s no way I’m waiting for another two hours.
B: Honey… don’t…
C: Hey man, the end of the line is over there.
A: Yeah…
C: No seriously, I was here first, and you can’t cut in line like this.
A: Says who?
C: I do!
A: So sue me!
C: Alright…that’s it….

006: The Weekend - Road Trip

A: So, are we all ready to go?
B: Yup, I think so. The car’s packed; we have munchies and music, and the map’s in the car.
A: Did you get the camera?
B: Got it! Did you fill up the tank?
A: Yup, it’s all set.
B: You’re sure we’re not forgetting anything?
A: I’m sure… we’ve got all our bases covered.
B: Well& let’s get going then! I love road trips!
B: Um… do you think we can make a pit stop?
A: But we’ve only been on the road for ten minutes.
B: I know, but I forgot to go to the bathroom before we left.

007: The Office - Virus!

A: Oh great! This stupid computer froze again! That’s the third time today! Hey Samuel, can you come take a look at my PC? It’s acting up again. It must have a virus or something.
B: Just give me a second; I’ll be right up.
B: I ran a virus scan on your computer, and it turns out that you have a lot of infected files!
A: But I’m quite careful when I’m browsing the internet, I have no idea how I could have picked up a virus.
B: Well, you have to make sure that your anti-virus software is updated regularly; yours wasn’t up to date, that’s probably what was causing your problems.
A: Ok. Anything else?
B: Yeah, try not to kick or hit the computer!
A: Um yeah& Sorry about that.

008: Daily Life - What’s your name again?

A: Nick! How’s it going?
B: Oh, hey…
A: What are you doing in this neighbourhood? Do you live around here?
B: Actually, my office is right around the corner.
A: It was great to meet you last week at the conference. I really enjoyed our conversation about foreign investment.
B: Yeah, yeah, it was really interesting. You know, I’m in a bit of a hurry, but here’s my card. We should definitely meet up again and continue our discussion.
A: Sure, you still have my contact details, right?
B: You know what, this is really embarrassing, but your name has just slipped my mind. Can you remind me?
A: Sure, my name is Ana Ferris. Don’t worry about it; it happens to me all the time. I’m terrible with names too.

009: The Weekend - Silence please!

A: Those people in front of us are making so much noise. Its so inconsiderate!
B: Don’t worry about it; it’s not such a big deal.
A: Oh… I can’t hear a thing! Excuse me, can you keep it down?
C: Sure, sorry ‘bout that!
A: Someone’s phone is ringing!
B: Honey, I think its your phone. Did you forget to switch it off?
A: Oh, no! You’re right. That’s so embarrassing!
C: Do you mind keeping it down? I’m trying to watch a movie here!

010: The Office - Driving Sales

A: All right, people. We’re holding this meeting today because we’ve got to do something about our sales, and we need to do it NOW! I want concrete solutions. How do you intend to drive sales… Roger?
B: Well, in fact, we’re the most expensive in the market, so maybe we need to lower our prices to match the competitors?
A: Lower our prices? Not very creative. It’ll never fly with Swan. What kind of thinking is that? Geez. Anybody else have a better plan? Natalie?
C: Um, perhaps, um, a sales promotion. Maybe a two-for-one offer, or something like that!
A: What? That’s the same thing. Bad idea. Really bad idea. Dammit people come on! Think! The CEO will be here any minute.
D: Do we have any ideas yet?
C: Yes Mr. Swan, we were kind of considering a two for one offer to get more competitive.
D: A two-for-one promotion? Hmm. I kind of like the sound of that. It sounds like something we should consider.
A: Yeah, exactly. Just what I was thinking! In fact, that’s a brilliant idea! I’m glad we thought of that. Very creative.

011: Daily Life - New Guy in Town

A: Oh, I don’t know if you heard, but someone moved into that old house down the road.
B: Yeah, I know. I met the owner of the house yesterday as he was moving in. His name is Armand.
A: Really? What’s he like? You have to fill me in.
B: Actually, he’s a bit strange. I don’t know… I’ve got a bad feeling about him.
A: Really? Why?
B: Well, yesterday I brought over a housewarming gift, but Armand started acting really weird, and then he practically kicked me out! I tried to, sort of, peek into his house, but everything was so dark inside that I couldn’t really get a good look.
A: Well, you’ll never guess what I saw this morning. A delivery truck pulled into his driveway, and it dropped off a long, rectangular box. It almost looked like a coffin!
B: You see! Why would he…
C: Hello ladies…
B: Ah, Armand! You scared the heck out of me! This is my friend Doris.
C: A pleasure to meet you…If you are not doing anything tonight, I would like to have you both for dinner. I mean…I would like to have you both over for dinner.

012: Daily Life - Cleaning the House

A: Honey, the house is such a mess! I need you to help me tidy up a bit. My boss and her husband are coming over for dinner and the house needs to be spotless!
B: I’m in the middle of something right now. I’ll be there in a second.
A: This can’t wait! I need your help now!
B: Alright, alright. I’m coming.
A: Ok, here’s a list of chores we need to get done. I’ll do the dishes and get all the groceries for tonight. You can sweep and mop the floors. Oh, and the furniture needs to be dusted.
B: You know what, I have to pick something up at the mall, so why don’t you clean the floors and Ill go to the supermarket and get all the groceries.
A: Sure that’s fine. Here is the list of all the things you need to get. Don’t forget anything! And can you pick up a bottle of wine on your way home?
B: Hey, honey I’m back. Wow, the house looks really good!
A: Great! Can you set the table?
B: Just a sec I’m just gonna vacuum this rug real fast
A: Wait! Don’t turn it on…

013: The Office - Out Of Control Spending

A: OK, so now the last point on our agenda. Jill, let’s go over the profit and loss statement.
B: Great. Well, the main issue here, as you can see, is that our expenses are through the roof.
A: Let’s see… These numbers are off the charts! What’s going on here!
B: Well, um, sir, the company expenditures on entertainment and travel are out of control. Look at these bills for example. Just this month we’ve paid over twenty thousand dollars for hotel charges!
A: OK, thank you. I’ll look into it.
B: The list goes on and on. Here, this is a bill for five thousand dollars for spa treatments!
A: Thank you; that will be all. I’ll take care of it.
B: Look at this one sir, eight thousand dollars were spent in one night at a place called “Wild Things”?!
A: OK, I get it!! Thank you for your very thorough analysis!

014: I’m in Debt

A: Hello, I’m here to see Mr. Corleone.
B: Right this way, sir.
C: Charlie! What can I do for you?
B: Mr. Corlone, I’m really sorry to trouble you, but I need your help.
C: Anything for you, Charlie! Your father was like a brother to me.
B: Well, sir, you see, this recession has hit me pretty hard; I lost my job and I’m in a lot of debt.
C: I see. . . . . .
B: Yeah, you know, I’ve got credit card bills, car payments, I’ve got to pay my mortgage; and on top of all that, I have to pay my son’s college tuition.
C: So you’re asking for a loan.
B: Well, I just thought maybe you could help me out.
C: What? At a time like this? I’m broke too, you know! You’re not the only one who has been hit by the recession! I lost half my money in the stock market crash! Go on! Get outa here!

015: Daily Life - I’m sorry, I love you.

A: Whoa, whoa, what’s going on? Watch out!
B: Hey, watch where you’re going!
A: Oh, no! I’m so sorry! Are you all right?
B: Oh…I don’t know.
A: I feel terrible; I really didn’t mean to knock you over. My tire, just exploded, and I lost control of my bike. Really, it was an accident. Please accept my apologies.
B: Just let me try to stand up.
SONG: Why do birds suddenly appear, every time you are near?
A: Are you okay?
B: Oh, wait a second, you seem really familiar, I think I know you from somewhere.
A: Yeah, I think we have met somewhere before. That’s right! We met at Aaron’s place last weekend! What a coincidence! But anyway, I’m glad to see that you’re not too badly hurt, and I should probably get going. I have a nine o’clock meeting.
B: Ouch! My ankle! I think it’s broken! You can’t just leave me like this! Are you calling an ambulance?
A: Nope, I’m canceling my appointment so that I can stay here with you.
SONG: Do you remember when we met? That’s the day I knew you were my pet. I wanna tell you how much I love you.

016: Turn left here!

A: Hurry up, get in.
B: I’m in, let’s go!
A: OK, make a left here. . . no wait, I meant make a right. Come on, speed up!
B: Geez! What’s the rush?
A: Don’t worry about it, just drive. Oh, no, the light is about to change. . . step on it!
B: Are you nuts! I’m not going to run a red light!
A: Whatever. Just turn right here. . . .The freeway will be packed at this hour. . . .let’s take a side street. Go on! Get out of our way! Move, move!
B: What’s your problem! Geez. Having a fit is not going to help!
A: Here, I know a short cut….just go down here, and we’ll cut though Ashburn Heights. Let’s go, let’s go! Watch out for that lady!
B: I’m going as fast as I can!
A: Yes! We made it. 5:58, just before the library closes.
B: You’re such a geek!

017: Here Comes the Bride

A: I can’t believe that Anthony is finally getting married!
B: Yeah well it’s about time! He’s been living with his parents for 40 years!
A: Don’t be mean. Look here come the bridesmaids! Their dresses look beautiful!
B: Who are those kids walking down the aisle?
A: That’s the flower girl and the ring bearer. I’m pretty sure they’re the groom’s niece and nephew. Oh, they look so cute!
B: I just hope the priest makes it quick. I’m starving. I hope the food’s good at the reception.
A: That’s all you ever think about, food! Oh, I think the bride’s coming now! She looks gorgeous. Wait, what’s she doing? Where’s she going?
B: Oh great! Does this mean that the reception is canceled?

018: Protest!

A: This is Action 5 News reporter Sarah O’Connell reporting live from Washington, D. C. where a protest has broken out. Thousands of angry citizens are protesting against the proposed bailout of the auto manufacturing industry! Sir, sir, Sarah O’Connell, Action 5 news. Can you tell us what’s happening?
B: Yeah, yeah, we’re here because we feel this is an injustice! The financial irresponsibility of big business has to stop! We’re there to show the government that we don’t like the way that they’re spending our tax dollars!
A: Sir but what exactly is making everyone so angry?
B: It’s an absolute outrage, Sarah, the US government wants to give 25 billion dollars of taxpayers’ money to the auto industry. These are companies that have been mismanaged and are now nearly bankrupt.
A: I see. But, many supporters of the bailout argue that it could help save the jobs of millions of hardworking Americans.
B: That maybe true, and I for one don’t want to see anyone lose their job, but how can these CEOs ask for a bailout when they’re making millions of dollars? And then, they have the nerve to fly to Washington in private jets! This costs hundreds of thousands of dollars! And they’re asking for money! That is just not right!
A: Good point. This is Sarah O’Connell reporting live from Washington D. C., back to you, Tom.

019: The Weekend - Christmas Chronicles I

A: I hate working on Christmas Eve! Whoa! Get a load of this guy! Come in central, I think we’ve got ourselves a situation here.
B: License and registration please. Have you been drinking tonight, sir?
A: I had one or two glasses of eggnog, but nothing else.
B: Step out of the vehicle, please. Sir, what do you have in the back?
A: Just a few Christmas gifts, ’tis the season, after all!
B: Don’t take that tone with me. Do you have an invoice for these items?
A: Umm…no…I make these in my workshop in the North Pole!
B: You are under arrest, sir. You have the right to remain silent. You better not pout, you better not cry. Anything you say can and will be used against you. You have the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford one, the state will appoint
A: You can’t take me to jail! What about my sleigh? It’s Christmas Eve! I have Presents to deliver! Rudolph! Prancer! Dancer! Get help!

020: I Can See Clearly Now

A: Hello, Arthur. What seems to be the problem?
B: Hey doc. Well, I think I might need glasses. I’m getting headaches, and I really struggle to see things that are far away. But I have always had 20/20 vision.
A: Sounds like you may be far-sighted. OK, then, cover your left eye and read the chart in front of you.
B: Mmm.. . X, E, R, 3, a question mark, and I can’t quite make out the other symbol but I think it’s the peace sign.
A: Wow, Arthur! You’re as blind as a bat!
B: Yeah, I know, my vision is really blurry at times.
A: Ok then, head on over to the other room and pick out some frames while I fill out your prescription.
B: Thanks doc!
A: Arthur, that’s the bathroom.

021: The Office - What Do You Do?

A: Oh, look, there’s Veronica and her boyfriend. She’s always going on about him at the office. Oh, great, they saw us. They’re coming this way.
B: Oh, man…
C: Jessica! Arthur! Hi! I’d like you to meet my boyfriend Greg, he’s the V. P. of quality and safety for a top Fortune 500 food company.
A: Nice to meet you. This is my husband, Arthur.
B: Hey, how’s it going?
D: Hello.
A: Veronica talks about you all the time. I guess you must be pretty busy at work.
D: Well, yeah, a V. P. position is not easy, you know! I implement policies and procedures nationwide. of various departments, as well as train junior managers in FDA and EPA regulations. I also have to oversee daily ope
B: Wow, yeah… that sounds exciting.
D: And what about you, Arthur? What do you do for a living?
B: Oh, I’m a Top Gun pilot!

022: The Weekend - Christmas Chronicles II

A: Really, gentlemen, you can’t take me to jail! Don’t you know who I am? Kris Kringle, you know, Papa Noel, Pere Noel, Babbo Natale, sheng dan lao ren!
B: Yeah, Yeah, we’ve heard that one before, haven’t we Joe?
C: Yeah, last week we booked this guy who claimed to be the tooth fairy! Can you believe that?
A: It’s Christmas Eve and I have all these Presents to deliver! Where is your Christmas spirit? What will happen when all the children wake up tomorrow and don’t find any gifts in their stockings?
B: Sorry buddy, you were parked in a no-parking zone, you were speeding, and you have no ID!
C: Besides that, even if we let you go now, your sleigh has been impounded and those reindeer were taken to the city zoo.
A: What! This is unbelievable! What’s this world coming to? Christmas is ruined!
C: What’s that up ahead? It looks like… elves!! Elves!! Whoa, they’re shooting candy canes! Mayday, Mayday, we are under heavy attack! We need backup!

023: Making an Appointment

A: Hello, Fairbrook Consulting, how may I help you?
B: Yes, this is Julianne Horton, and I’m calling to arrange an appointment with Ms. McNealy.
A: Certainly, what day were you thinking of?
B: How’s Thursday? Does she have any time available then?
A: Um. . . let me double check. . . unfortunately, she’s booked solid on Thursday, how does next Monday work for you?
B: Actually, I’ve got something scheduled on Monday. Can she do Tuesday?
A: Sure, Tuesday’s perfect. May I ask where you’re calling from?
B: Sure, Merton Financial Advisors.
A: Oh, actually, Tuesday’s no good. Sorry’bout that.

024: Where should we eat?

A: Do you two have any plans for the evening?
B: We were thinking of checking out a restaurant in the neigbourhood. Do you have any suggestions?
A: I know this really nice Italian place. The food is fantastic, and the d′ecor is beautiful. I’d recommend giving it a try.
C: Actually, I’m not all that crazy about Italian food; I’m in the mood for something a bit lighter.
A: In that case, I know a great little bistro. They make a really tasty seafood platter; the fish is outstanding.
B: It sounds fantastic, but I’m allergic to seafood, so. . .
A: Okay, well, let me think. . . Oh, I know this great little place. It’s just a hole in the wall, but they do the most amazing sandwiches. You gotta give them a try.
C: Ella, you took me there last time I visited, and I got food poisoning, remember?

025: Planning For The Worst

A: Well, right, let’s move to our next order of business, as many of you are aware, in recent weeks there has been a lot of media coverage surrounding this bird flu issue. And it’s come to my attention that our company lacks any sort of bird flu contingency plan.
B: Basically, we need to come up with a clear plan; we need to outline specific actions that our company can take to maintain critical business functions in case a pandemic strikes.
A: So, what I’d like to do is: first appoint someone to look after drafting our plan; Ralph, I’d like you to head up this project.
C: Sure, no problem. What issues do you want me to consider?
B: Well, let’s see, there are a few points we need to be thinking about. . . first, I’ll need you to analyze our numbers and figure out what kind of financial impact an outbreak might have.
A: You’ll also need to think about how we can avoid any of our employees getting infected; think of ways to reduce employee-customer contact, perhaps some IT solutions that will allow our people to work from home.
C: I guess you’ll need me to forecast employee absences as well, right? And I’ll think about the impact this will have on our clients. Hey, what about vaccines? Should we be thinking about getting vaccines for our employees?
A: Exactly right. So, I’ll leave this to you, and we’ll review the draft plan in two weeks. Okay, so, anyone want to order some KFC for lunch?

026: New Year Resolution

A: So, did I tell you about my New Year’s resolution? I’ve decided to go on a diet.
B: And you’re going to completely transform your eating habits, right?
A: Exactly! I’m going to cut out all that junk I eat; no more chips, no more soda, no more fried food.
B: I’ve heard this one before.
A: But this time I’m going to stick to it. I really mean it! Trust me, Carol, I’m going to be a new man in one year’s time!
B: Well, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
A: Thanks, honey, that was a great meal. I’m stuffed. Do we have any chips left?

027: Asking for Time Off

A: Mr. McKenna, do you have a second? I need to talk to you about something.
B: Sure, Liv, what can I do for you?
A: Well, I was just wondering. . . you see, I know I’ve used up all my vacation days this year, but my sister is getting married, and the wedding is overseas, and, well. . .
B: You wanna take some time off, is that right?
A: Well, sir, I was just hoping that I might be able to take some unpaid leave this year.
B: What dates are you planning on taking off? I’ll need at least two months notice, so that I can plan for your absence.
A: I was thinking of taking off from September first until the thirtieth . Would you be okay with that?
B: Well, I guess so.

028: Daily Life - I’m Sorry, I Love You II

A: I’m so relieved that your ankle wasn’t broken! I feel just awful about this whole thing. I wanna make it up to you. Let me take you out to dinner tonight. My treat.
B: That sounds great! I’d love to! Here is my address. Pick me up at eight?
A: Perfect!
B: Thank you for such a lovely evening! The food was amazing, and I had a great time.
A: Me too. You look so beautiful tonight! I wish this night would never end. There’s something I have to tell you…
B: What is it?
A: I woke up today thinking this would be just like any other ordinary day, but I was wrong. A twist of fate brought us together. I crashed into your life and you into mine, and this may sound crazy, but I’m falling.

029: Investing in Emerging Markets

A: Dad, I’d like to borrow some money.
B: Sure, Johnny, how much do you need? five bucks?
A: Come on, Dad, I need thirty thousand. I wanna get into the market. You know, I’m tired of hearing all this news about the economic downturn, the inevitable recession, people stuffing their money in their mattresses. I look at this as an opportunity. This is a chance for me to get a jump start on building my nest egg.
B: I don’t know about that; with all the uncertainty in the markets right now, it would be a very unwise decision to invest. I don’t know if you’re aware son, but there has been a lot of turmoil in the markets recently. There have already been half a million layoffs in the last few months, and we have no idea how the proposed stimulus package will impact the economy. There’s just too much instability. I wouldn’t feel comfortable investing in this climate.
A: But look at it this way, every challenge is an opportunity. And anyway, I’m not talking about investing in the domestic market. There are emerging markets that promise great returns. Look at China, for example; they have 1.4 billion people, half a billion of whom have recently entered the middle class. Here alone, the aggregate demand for consumer goods represents an amazing wealth generating opportunity.
B: Come on, son, you’re looking at this too naively, the Chinese market has exhibited a great deal of instability, and their currency has been devalued by almost a whole percentage point.
A: Fine, then! If that’s the way you feel, so be it. But you’re losing out on a great opportunity here. I’m going to go hit up Mum for the cash.

030: Daily Life - New Guy in Town II

A: Oh, Armand, thank you for such a thoughtful invitation! It’s really very nice of you to invite us over for dinner, don’t you think so, Ellen?
B: Oh, yes of course! We’d love to come over. Can I bring anything?
C: No, don’t worry about it; I’ll take care of everything. I’ll see you tonight. Come with an appetite… I know I will!
B: I don’t want go over to his place for dinner! He gives me the creeps! Why on earth did you accept?
A: Oh come on Ellen, it will be nice to get to know him. Besides, he’s new to the neighborhood, and it would be rude to decline his invitation.
B: I guess so… You always rope me into things like this!
C: Ladies! Thank you for coming! You look delicious…I mean beautiful. Please come in.
A: Oh Oh Armand! You are too kind!
B: How did I get myself into this…

031：The Office - Canceling an Appointment

A: Hello, Samantha speaking.
B: Hi Samantha. This is Angela calling.
A: Oh, hi Angela, what’s up?
B: I’m just calling about our meeting today. I wonder, is it possible to reschedule our appointment in the afternoon? I have a bit of an emergency that I need to take care of.
A: Let me see, it shouldn’t be too much of a problem…
B: I’m really sorry, I hope it doesn’t inconvenience you too much, it’s just this thing came up, and …
A: Angela, you know what, I can’t make it to our meeting, either. Why don’t we postpone it to tomorrow afternoon at the same time?
B: Sounds great. See you tomorrow.
C: Angela… Angela, look up! See that lady over there who is trying on a red leather jacket? Isn’t that Samantha?
B: What? No wonder she told me she couldn’t make it to the meeting, oh, no, I think she saw me…

Key Vocabulary

what’s up phrase what is the matter
reschedule verb schedule something for a different time
inconvenience verb cause problem or trouble
come up verb occur in an unexpected way
make it verb come
postpone verb decide to do something at a later time
no wonder phrase not surprisingly

Supplementary Vocabulary

scheduling conflict common noun, singular two or more appointments scheduled at the same time
call off verb cancel
double-book verb have two appointments or meetings at the same time
push back phrase move a meeting or appointment to a later time
rain check phrase a promise or offer to do something in the future that is not possible to do now

032：Daily Life - Opening a Bank Account

A: Next, please. May I help you, sir?
B: Hello, yes, I’d like to open a bank account.
A: Certainly, I can can help you with that. What type of account would you like to open? A chequing or a savings account?
B: What What features do they offer?
A: Well, if you just take a look here, see, with our chequing account, you can have unlimited daily transactions for a small monthly fee, and our savings account has a higher interest rate, but you must carry a minimum balance of $ 10,000 dollars.
B: I see, well, I think I’m more interested in a chequing account; I like to have easy access to my money.
A: Alright, then, with this chequing account you’ll be issued a debit card and a cheque book. Will you require overdraft protection? There is an extra fee for that.
B: No, that won’t be necessary.
A: In that case, I’ll get you to fill out this paperwork; I’ll need your social insurance number, and two pieces of government ID. If you could just sign here, and here, and here; we’ll be all set. Would you like to make a deposit today?
B: Yes, I’d like to deposit one billion dollars.

Key Vocabulary

feature common noun, plural interesting or important quality
chequing account common noun, singular a regular account for daily transations
transaction common noun, plural an occurrence in which money is transfered from one person, or one account, to another
savings account common noun, singular an account for people to keep their money, usually offers a higher interest rate
balance common noun, singular the amount of money in a bank account
access common noun, singular a way to get to something
debit card common noun, singular a card for you to take money out of your bank account
overdraft common noun, singular taking out more money than what is available in the account
I’ll get you phrase (a way to ask people to do things)
I’ll need your phrase (a way to request people to provide something)
If you could just phrase (a polite way of asking people to do things)
deposit common noun, singular an amount of money that is put in a bank account

Supplementary Vocabulary

credit card common noun, singular a card to buy things and pay for them later
online banking common noun, non-variable a service that allows people to do transactions online
telephone banking common noun, non-variable a service that allows people to do transactions by phone
cheque book common noun, singular a book of cheques for use with a chequing account
terms and conditions common noun, non-variable an outline of the rules and company policies of a particular product or service
high interest account common noun, singular a savings account that offers higher than usual interest rate
teller common noun, singular a person working in a bank, who helps customers with daily transactions

033：Elementary-Foul!

A: Has the game started yet?
B: Yeah, about 5 minutes ago.
A: Who’s winning?
B: The Bulls, of course!
A: What! That wasn’t a foul! C’mon, ref!
B: Don’t worry, Shaq always screws up free throws.
A: You were right! He didn’t make the shot!
B: That was a great shot! A three pointer, yeah!
A: Did you see that? He traveled and the ref didn’t call it!
B: This ref needs glasses. Hey ref, open your eyes! I can’t believe he didn’t see that!
A: Okay… end of the first quarter… Alright, I’m gonna make a beer run.

Key Vocabulary

foul common noun, singular an act in sports that is against the rules
referee common noun, singular person who makes sure that players act according to the rules in a game or sport (informal)
screw up verb make a mistake
free throw common noun, plural a chance to shoot the ball due to a foul made by the opponent
make the shot verb successfully throw a ball toward a goal (sports)
three pointer common noun, singular a shot that scores three points in a game
travel verb take more steps with the basketball than the rule allows
beer run common noun, non-variable the act of quickly going to get beer

Supplementary Vocabulary

court common noun, singular place where basketball is played
assist common noun, singular an action where the ball is passed that helps score a goal
block verb put your body between an opposing player and the ball
jump shot common noun, singular jump in the air and shoot the ball while
rebound verb grab and control the ball after the other team missed a shot
steal verb intercept a pass between two players of the opposite team

034：Global View - Live from Washington

A: This is Madeline Wright, for BCC News reporting live from Washington D. C. where, very shortly, the new President will deliver his inaugural address. Just moments ago, the President was sworn in to office; following the United States Constitution the president swore an oath to faithfully execute the office of the presidency.
B: And what exactly is going on now, Madeline?
A: Well, Tom, true to American tradition, the band has just played Hail to the Chief, and the President has been honored by a 21 gun salute. Now we’re waiting for the President to take to the stage and deliver his speech. Tom, it’s like a who’s who of the political world here on Capital Hill, with dignitaries representing several different countries.
B: What’s the mood on the ground like, Madeline?
A: In a word, the mood here is electric. The excitement in the air is palpable; I’ve never seen a larger crowd here on Capital Hill, and the audience is shouting crying, and embracing each other. On this, a most historic day, you can feel the hope and the excitement in the air. The twentieth of January will go down in history as the… Oh, Tom, it looks like the President is about to to begin…
C: My fellow Americans, I stand before you…

Key Vocabulary

deliver verb give information by speaking; say something officially
swear in verb place someone in a new position by holding an official ceremony where he promises to do the job well
oath common noun, singular official, serious promise
who’s who phrase important and famous people in a particular industry
dignitary common noun, plural person with a high rank or position, especially in government or religion
palpable Adjective so strong you can feel it, obvious
in a word phrase to describe something in one word
fellow Adjective used to describe people of the same group
go down in history phrase be remembered

Supplementary Vocabulary

ceremony common noun, singular activity or action that are the official part of a formal official state or social occasion
festivities common noun, non-variable celebration, enjoyment, and happiness
president-elect common noun, singular a person who has been voted president, but not yet officially made president
parade common noun, singular a public celebration of an event where many people move down a street in groups or on vehicles; usually involves a marching band
term common noun, singular time allowed for one person to remain President after one election; in America a presidential term is four years
affirmation common noun, singular a show of agreement or dedication
inaugural luncheon phrase formal lunch celebrating the inauguration

035：Daily Life - He’s not a Good Fit

A: So, Lauren, I just wanted to talk to you quickly about our new customer support representative, Jason Huntley.
B: Sure, what’s up?
A: Basically, I’ve got a few concerns about him, and the bottom line is, I don’t think he’s a good fit for our company.
B: Okay… what makes you say that? I thought you were pleased with his overall performance. Didn’t you just tell me last week how impressed you were with his attitude?
A: Yeah, his attitude is great, but he’s really unreliable. Sometimes he’s really productive, but then other times… take last Tuesday for instance, he was forty-five minutes late for our morning meeting!
B: Well, I’m sure he had a perfectly good reason…
A: But that’s not the only thing… you know, he really doesn’t have the best work ethic, I’m constantly catching him on MSN and Facebook when he should be talking to clients.
B: Yeah, but come on, Geoff, as if you don’t check Facebook at work. Look, you hired this guy, we’ve invested a lot of time and money in his training, so now it’s up to you to coach him. Make it work, Geoff!
A: Make it work, Geoff. You would say that, wouldn’t you, he is your cousin; what a jerk, make me hire your stupid, useless, cousin.

Key Vocabulary

concern common noun, plural worry
the bottom line phrase most important point
overall Adjective general
performance common noun, singular how well someone does their job
unreliable Adjective not able to be trusted
productive Adjective doing a lot in a short amount of time
perfectly good phrase having no problems, just fine
work ethic common noun, non-variable attitude to work
coach verb teach and train someone new skills

Supplementary Vocabulary

poor judgment phrase regularly makes bad decisions
poor work ethic phrase bad attitude to work
dependable Adjective able to be trusted and relied upon
a bad apple phrase a bad member of a group who makes things more difficult for others
unproductive Adjective not productive, not doing a lot

036：Daily Life - I’m Sorry, I Love You III

A: Steven! Where have you been? I’ve been trying to get a hold of you for hours!
B: I… um… there was an emergency at work, so…
A: I was waiting for you in the restaurant for three hours! And you didn’t even have the decency to call me! Do you have any idea how embarrassed I was?
B: Honey, I promise this won’t happen again, it’s just that I…
A: Yeah, right. I’ve heard it all before. I’m not going to take any more of your empty promises. This is the fifth time you’ve stood me up in two weeks! You need to get your priorities straight. I’m tired of you putting your job first all the time!
B: Come on, Veronica, that’s not fair. I do care about you a lot, you know that. I tried to …
A: You know what? Maybe we should just take a break. I need some time to think about where this relationship is heading.
B: But…Veronica, would you just listen to me? There was a fire alarm at my office building today and I was stuck…

Key Vocabulary

get hold of verb find or contact someone
decency common noun, non-variable polite or moral behavior
do you have any idea phrase do you know
stand (someone) up verb fail to keep the appointment to meet someone
get your priorities straight phrase realize what is more important
head verb go towards a specified direction or place

Supplementary Vocabulary

break up verb end a relationship
cheat on (someone) verb kiss or have sex with someone who is not your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife or husband
get back together phrase restart a relationship that ended
ex-boyfriend common noun, singular person who used to be your boyfriend
ex-girlfriend

037：Intermediate - Chinese New Year

A: I’m so excited about Chinese New Year! When do I get to visit Grandma? Grandma makes the best dumplings in the world!
B: Ha ha, right. Sounds to me like you’re more excited about the dumplings than seeing your Grandma.
A: Of course I miss Grandma, too. I bet she’s gonna teach me how to play Mahjong! Hey, Dad, are you going to buy me firecrackers this year? We’re going to have the best fireworks! I’m really looking forward to lighting them!
B: Son, firecrackers aren’t toys; they’re dangerous!
A: No, fireworks are awesome!
B: Whoa, don’t you remember? Last year when I set off the firecrackers, you covered both your ears and hid behind your mother?
A: Dad! I was scared because… because I saw a bug. That’s all.
B: Hahaha… really?
A: Oh, and I can’t wait to watch the dragon dance! Dad, can I sit on your shoulders this time?
B: Hey, I offered last year…
A: Well, I… anyways, I was just thinking of the red envelopes. I wanna make a list of all the things I’m gonna buy with my red envelope money! I can’t wait! I’m gonna have so much money! Mom, can I get a pen and a piece of paper?
A: I want a new transformer, no, two transformers…the Optimus Prime, and…maybe the wheeljack? I’ll get a PSP game, hahaha, and I’ll buy the entire class lunch at MacDonald’s…

Key Vocabulary

excited Adjective very happy about something
dumpling common noun, plural small lump of dough that is steamed or boiled, traditional Chinese New Year food
firecracker common noun, plural a cylinder filled with explosive substance that makes loud noise when it explodes
look forward to phrase excited and happy about something that will happen in the future
can’t wait phrase eager or excited about doing something or for something to begin
set off verb cause something to explode

Supplementary Vocabulary

Lunar New Year Chinese New Year, based on the cycles of the moon
Spring Festival Chinese New Year
lunar calendar common noun, singular a calendar based on the cycles and phases of the moon
can hardly wait phrase very excited about something that will happen in the future
impatient Adjective not happy or willing to wait for something

038：Daily Life - Buying a Car

A: Hi there, can I help you folks?
B: I’m just browsing; seeing what’s on the lot. My daughter wants a car for her birthday, you know how it is.
C: Dad! I’m sixteen already and I’m, like, the only one at school who doesn’t have a car!
A: She is right, you know. Kids these days all have cars. Let me show you something we just got in: a 1996 sedan. Excellent gas mileage, it has dual airbags and anti lock brakes; a perfect vehicle for a young driver.
C: Dad, I love it! It’s awesome! Can we get this one please?
B: I see… What can you tell me about this one?
A: Oh, that’s just an old World War Two tank that we use for TV commercials. Now about this sedan…
B: Whoa, whoa wait a minute. Tell me more about this tank.
A: Well, Sir, if you are looking for quality and safety then look no further! Three inches of reinforced steel protect your daughter from short range missile attacks.
B: Does the sedan protect her from missile attacks?
A: It does not.
B: Well, I don’t know. Let me sleep on it.
A: Did I mention the tank is a tank?
B: I’ll take it!
C: Dad!

Key Vocabulary

browse verb look around to see if anything is interesting
sedan common noun, singular a car with four doors
gas mileage common noun, singular the amount of gas used per mile
dual airbags common noun, plural two airbags, one for the driver and one for the passenger
brake common noun, plural a device that slows down or stops something
vehicle common noun, singular something that carries people from one place to another
reinforce Adjective strengthen, make something stronger
sleep on it phrase think about something further and make a decision later (informal)

Supplementary Vocabulary

minivan common noun, singular a vehile that is larger than a car, has four doors and is shaped like a box
SUV common noun, singular a large vehicle that is suitable to run on rough surfaces
sale common noun, singular an event where goods or services are sold at a price lower than usual
promotion common noun, singular something (usually advertising) that is done to increase sales
discount common noun, singular the amount of reduction in price
bargain common noun, singular something bought or sold at a price lower than its actual value