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1.1 2.1 3.1 R1 4.1 5.1 6.1 R7 7.1 8.1 9.1 R14 10.1 11.1 12.1 R21
1.2 2.2 3.2 R2 4.2 5.2 6.2 R8 7.2 8.2 9.2 R15 10.2 11.2 12.2 R22
1.3 2.3 3.3 R3 4.3 5.3 6.3 R9 7.3 8.3 9.3 R16 10.3 11.3 12.3 R23
1.4 2.4 3.4 R4 4.4 5.4 6.4 R10 7.4 8.4 9.4 R17 10.4 11.4 12.4 R24
1.5 2.5 3.5 R5 4.5 5.5 6.5 R11 7.5 8.5 9.5 R18 10.5 11.5 12.5 R25
1.6 2.6 3.6 R6 4.6 5.6 6.6 R12 7.6 8.6 9.6 R19 10.6 11.6 12.6 R26
1.7 2.7 3.7 5.7 6.7 R13 7.7 8.7 9.7 R20 10.7 11.7 12.7 R27
1.8 2.8 3.8 6.8 7.8 8.8 9.8 10.8 11.8 12.8 R28
2.9 3.9 6.9 7.9 8.9 9.9 10.9 11.9 12.9 R29
2.10 3.10 6.10 7.10 8.10 9.10 10.10
2.11 3.11 7.11
7.12
7.13
Unit 1: Communication
1
Ah, yes, this is a Kabuki dancer, isn’t it? And each dance tells a story, with the costume and the makeup
and the movements all communicating something different—the only problem… is you have to know
the language of Kabuki dance to understand what he’s saying!
2
She’s obviously angry about something and she has decided to protest about it. She’s using a poster to
communicate her message—and the strength of the crowd as well. That makes the message much louder
and more powerful.
3
This gesture says a thousand words, doesn’t it? So gentle, so tender, it’s communicating love and
protection. It’s amazing how a hand gesture can say so much!
1
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
4
I love this photo, the way the two people are looking at each other, the way they seem to be so deep in
conversation. They’re not just talking with words. The expressions on their faces and the gestures
they’re making with their hands are all part of the conversation.
5
Mm. There are two things going on in this photo. I mean first of all, there’s the keyboard, and that’s so
much part of modern communication, isn’t it? You know, people staying in touch by e-mail, instant
messaging services or social networks, but it’s also the hands. Look at the henna on her hands; that tells
a story, too. It communicates a lot about the person who’s typing, don’t you think?
6
OK, this one is obviously showing sign language. I wonder if they are listening to music and are having
trouble hearing each other, or maybe they don’t speak the same language.
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S1: I hope so, but I just don’t know, but we have to do something… this crisis is killing us… if it
makes people change their mind and join us, that would be good.
I: How long will you stay here for?
S1: It doesn’t matter, as long as necessary… As I said I don’t have a job to go to, so I really don’t
mind.
2
I: Hi, just a couple of questions. You’re holding a sign. What exactly does that sign mean? I mean
what is it saying?
S2: Well, it’s a protest, of course.
I: What kind of protest?
S2: About climate change.
I: Why did you decide to dress like this animal? I mean, what made you want to dress like a polar
bear?
S2: It’s a powerful symbol of what’s happening as a consequence of global warming. Polar bears are
losing their habitat because the ice at the North Pole is quickly disappearing. We need to do
something now, before it’s too late.
I: Why did you use those particular words though?
S2: Because normally we write “Save the Animals” on our signs. I thought it was effective to turn
that around. Sometimes you get more attention if you make a serious point but with a sense of
humor.
3
I: How long did it take to make the sign? Was it difficult to make?
S3: Well, about an hour, I think. No, it was easy. I made it with a friend.
I: Who gave you the idea?
S3: Nobody. I just love this soccer player. I asked myself how I could show that. I thought the TV
cameras might spot me, and they did! But I didn’t want England to win this game and, of course,
he wasn’t playing… but he was there in the crowd.
I: And what happened after the game? Did he say anything to you?
S3: No, unfortunately he didn’t.
4
I: So, tell me, why are you here, sir?
S4: Because I want to be the first, the first in line to get one of these things.
I: How long have you been here?
S4: Twenty-four hours, I slept here overnight.
I: Who is the sign for?
S4: Well, for nobody really… It was just a joke. But it’s really just for the other people in line… to
let them know I got here first! And for the TV cameras and reporters. Quite a few people have
taken photos, and others have stopped to talk to me.
© RICHMOND 2012
6 How many of the people do you know here?
© RICHMOND 2012
4 So, how do you know Sergio?
5 What’s the problem? You look terrible.
6 What did you say your name was again?
7 Hi, what are you up to?
8 Did you sleep OK?
9 Hi, what brings you here at this time of day?
10 You don’t know me, but…
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Unit 2: A Good Read
[2.1] page 14, Exercise 2a
1 I like the way he is concentrating so hard and the light from the cell phone illuminates his face as
he scrolls down the text on the screen.
2 You never normally see a photo like this, I mean, you just hear people reading a script out loud,
but you never see them. She’s very relaxed and informal, which is different from how you see
these people on TV.
3 This would be many people’s favorite place to read. You glance at a few lines of a novel and then
close your eyes, you never usually get past the first paragraph, and the picture captures that…
4 While you’re waiting for the bus, this is a good place to check out the sports news. I like how the
people are all reading, not really aware of each other.
5 These are some candidates, waiting to take an exam; they’re looking through their notes for the
last time. I remember doing that; it’s too late to study anymore, but you do it anyway.
6 Sometimes there’s no better place to read than in the bookstore itself. This guy seems to be
looking up some important information in a reference book. It’s something he has to know right
away.
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© RICHMOND 2012
H: Well, we have Tanya Kowitz here with us. Hi, Tanya. You’ve come into the studio today to tell us
all about manga. I keep seeing it everywhere, but I must confess I don’t know too much about it.
Can you enlighten us?
TK: Well, I figured that might be the case, so let me give you a brief introduction. The incredible
thing about it is that in Japan (where manga comes from) it represents close to 25% of what
people read, at least in print. In the U.S., novels are still the most popular, but in many parts of
Tokyo where I used to live, you can’t walk more than two or three blocks without encountering
these comics.
H: And these are young people I presume?
TK: Oh, no, it isn’t just for young people; everybody reads manga —business people and housewives
alike. You can see them on the subway or even walking down the street, their heads buried in the
latest series they are reading. Hiroshima even has a public library devoted to manga. But it’s not
just about books. You can even get manga novels sent in installments to your cell phone.
H: I was going to ask you about that. So, manga’s available in every shape and size…
TK: Absolutely, and there’s a reason for that… you know… nearly all of Japan’s cultural production
comes from manga. Most anime (animated) movies, you know, cartoons and television series, as
well as many videogames and collectible figures, began life as manga comics.
H: And what about outside Japan? Has this manga industry evolved in the same way?
TK: Yes, for sure. Manga hadn’t reached a global market before, but now I’d say it could be the
country’s most influential export. I mean, one of the most popular, Naruto, is now translated into
many languages, with adaptations… you know, designed to suit different cultures.
H: So it’s a global product, but it’s localized for particular markets…
TK: That’s right… A UK firm has recently published manga versions of Shakespeare’s most famous
works, including Hamlet. Well, the character of Hamlet is the man we know and love, but the
plot is very different and so’s the setting. In this manga version Hamlet lives in the year 2107 on
an Earth destroyed by global warming.
H: Wow, that’s some change… What other stuff is out there?
TK: Erm, let me think about that one, erm… well, you know The World Bank and publisher Viz
Media teamed up to produce a thing called 1 World Manga. It’s a series of graphic novels in
manga format with themes that address things like HIV/AIDS, poverty and corruption. It’s a
great way to make young people aware of these things. They are donated to libraries, so more
people can read them… It’s a great idea.
H: So would you say that manga’s become a central part of popular culture in many parts of the
world?
TK: Yeah, absolutely. You can even buy a Bible with manga style illustrations. Can you believe that?
And manga is even used by advertisers as a marketing device. You can see huge manga faces on
billboards or simply to decorate the facades of buildings. So what started off as comic book,
something you put in your pocket, just became the biggest icon the world has ever seen… and
this is helping manga become truly international. It’s not just Japanese anymore.
H: Wow, that shows you what popularity can do. Incredible, Tanya, the images are amazing. Thanks
for sharing them with us.
© RICHMOND 2012
3 No, Hiroshima has a special library devoted to manga.
4 No, the plot of the manga Hamlet is very different, although the character is similar.
5 No, 1 World Manga are comics that look at serious global issues, such as AIDS.
6 No, large manga faces are used on billboards or to decorate the outsides of buildings.
7 No, Tanya’s final point is that manga is becoming truly international.
© RICHMOND 2012
what it was an hour ago, has the price of that flight changed? Has anybody responded to my blog
in the last half hour? Because we can read like this, checking and checking again, we have
become anxious readers, we don’t know how to read for relaxation any more. Take away the
technology for a week and see what happens, see what you will discover about the world.
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Unit 3: Art Everywhere
[3.1] page 24, Exercise 2b
1
A: I love this mural. It’s amazing how he takes these derelict old buildings and turns them into
works of art. I was amazed when I first saw it, really amazed!
B: Yes, I know what you mean. But the images are pretty disturbing sometimes. I mean, all those
rats!
A: Yeah, I guess his murals of rabbits are less shocking.
2
A: Hey, this is a great photo. What is it?
B: It’s an installation in an open-air sculpture park not far from where we live. It was a very hot day,
and we were really surprised, and so pleased when we came across this last installation. We had
no idea it was there. There was a tunnel into the hillside, and then we came out into this, like,
underground room. And there was this pool, and in the middle, a strange tower. It was so cool
and fresh. Just what we needed!
3
A: So, did you get to see the Mona Lisa?
B: Yes, eventually, but we had to stand in line for hours, and then when we finally did get to see the
painting, it was so disappointing. It’s so small! And the room was so full of people, you couldn’t
see a thing! It was so annoying—all these people taking photos with their phones!
4
A: Is that Rodin? The Thinker? Where is it?
B: There was an exhibition downtown with six or seven Rodin sculptures. And this one, of course.
The kids look really bored, don’t they? But actually they’re just imitating the statue’s pose.
5
Have you ever seen any of these 3D street drawings? People draw them on the sidewalk or
pavement with chalk, but they’re in 3D, and some of them look like there’s a hole or something.
Look, I have a photo of one on my phone. I tell you, this one is so lifelike that the first time you
see it, it’s terrifying.
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© RICHMOND 2012
[3.4] page 27, Exercise 2b
1
A: This is quite interesting.
B: Interesting? It’s absolutely fascinating!
2
A: I’m very tired after that walk.
B: Tired? I’m completely exhausted!
3
A: Hey, this is really good, you know.
B: Good? It’s really fantastic!
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C: Not at all. Did you know the original statue is actually around the corner from Trafalgar Square?
It has beautiful decoration. I think it’s a lot more artistic than the others, those beautiful jewels,
look at that…
L: She’s trying to convince us…
C: Anyway, you never told us which one you think is going to win.
L: Well, you know, I like cake, and I think the mountain landscape is one of the best, too but… I
think the horse will win…
E: Which horse? There are two…
L: The boy on the brass horse. It’s not as strange as the others. It’s classic. If it’s going to be in
Trafalgar Square, they’re going to choose something classic that fits in with the architecture,
don’t you think?
E: I’m not sure, but that’s my choice as well…
© RICHMOND 2012
3 The most important thing is that people are talking about it.
4 The problem is that the architect is famous.
5 What I hate about it is the position.
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Review A
[R1] page 34, Exercise 2a
I like communicating, and these new forms of communication are quick and easy. I like to keep things
separate though. I use e-mail for my work and business contacts and tweeting for family and friends and
also acquaintances. When I want to chat longer, with my mother for example, I can talk on Skype, which
is much cheaper. Face-to-face? Well, I sometimes have to give lectures or presentations for my work in
front of a lot of people, strangers… so that can get really stressful. With my boyfriend I like to chat
about all kinds of things; we discuss serious matters like politics and then, of course, we have
arguments, too… like all couples I guess.
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[R6] page 37, Exercise 2a
1 Xavier
I’m really lucky. I have a few English-speaking friends. They’re exchange students studying at my
university. They don’t speak much French–one’s Dutch, another’s Brazilian–we get together once a
week and have a language exchange, a little bit of French, a little bit of Portuguese, not much Dutch!
But the main language we use together is English–it’s really helping me. I feel so much more
confident… it’s definitely the best way to learn.
2 Sue
When I was studying Spanish at school I used to listen to the radio in Spanish all the time–absolutely
anything, the news, the weather, sport, I didn’t care. And every now and then they would show a movie
in Spanish on the TV – I used to like watching them with the subtitles in English over and over again
until I understood every word they said.
3 Kat
Music has to be one of the most important things for me. It is absolutely incredible how easy it is to
remember words when you associate them with music. I spend hours and hours watching videos of my
favorite bands and reading their lyrics online. What did people used to do before YouTube? It is a totally
amazing language-learning tool. And it’s not just music, of course, there are chatrooms and so much
more. I don’t think you need a language-learning classroom anymore. You can learn it all online!
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Unit 4: Man and Nature
[4.1] page 38, Exercise 3b
S = Silvia (Host) L = Lucas
S: Treehuggers’ News Update is pleased to welcome Lucas Ainsworth to the show. Lucas has two
images to talk about this morning, isn’t that right, Lucas?
L: Yes, that’s right, Silvia. These two photos are incredible because they show how man is
distorting, you know, changing out of proportion, the natural world in two very different ways.
OK, so, the first one was taken in Mato Grosso, Brazil, where a large part of the Amazon can be
found. You know, the best way to see man’s destruction of the Amazon rain forest is from the air.
Farmers and plantation owners have cut down an enormous number of trees to make space for
soybean crops or cattle ranches. Apart from the obvious environmental damage, these changes
are affecting human and animal populations that made their life in the Amazon. Some animals
will become extinct and many people will lose their homes; in fact that has happened already
because their land has been destroyed by burning. In other parts of the world, forest fires destroy
our green spaces… Here it is all man’s doing, and from the sky it is easy to identify.
S: And the second photo?
L: The second one… well, it’s ironic because here we can see humans adding some green, not
taking it away… but for what reasons? And as you can see, it’s a golf course. This is part of the
Bab Al Shams Resort built in the middle of the desert in Dubai—a golf course in the middle of a
desert! So we have tourists riding on camels with a guide, and then here you can see how the
specially planted palm trees provide some shade for the golfers. With such a dry climate, drought
means there are severe water restrictions; some people in neighboring countries don’t have
enough water to drink—and yet, think of the water needed to keep the grass as green as that!
Imagine what else they could do with all that water! At least in the middle of the desert they’ll be
able to find sand for the bunkers!
S: That’s right.
L: So, in both photos, we can see how man has divided up the landscape into neat sections; the
difference is that in Brazil, man has removed the natural green space to replace it with farmland;
in the case of Dubai, man has created an unnatural green space for leisure. Which do you think is
sadder?
S: That’s hard to say, Lucas. Thanks for sharing these thoughts with us this morning…
© RICHMOND 2012
February! People have lost their homes, their businesses, but luckily no one’s lost their life—yet!
And the tragic thing is they’re so easy to start! It only takes one cigarette thrown out of a car
window to start a catastrophe here. The land is dry and the heat is intense. One of the biggest
problems is a sudden change in the wind direction; if the wind is blowing in the wrong direction,
it can be fatal. Most local people are aware of all this, but sometimes tourists or people from the
city don’t understand the dangers. Maybe they haven’t traveled in the bush before, and maybe
they don’t know the dangers; so we have to keep campaigning.
2
A: Thanks. And now to an area where a terrible natural disaster took place not so long ago—Phuket
in Thailand. What’s being done to take precautions in the future?
J: The terrible tsunami that came in 2004 caught us all by surprise. Luckily, we haven’t seen
anything like it since then, but we all know it could happen again. Locals and tourists need to
know what to do in case there is another tsunami. We’ve built new evacuation sites, and we’ve
put up signs like this to mark the sites very clearly. Look, here’s one. As you can see, the sign
shows you need to get to higher ground, above the waves. We’ve built more shelters on higher
ground as well.
A: That sounds good. Sometimes, more minor accidents involving water can occur. Our next visit is
to the English countryside. What’s the problem here?
3
B: Well, Norfolk is very prone to flooding. The land is very flat and very low. When it rains, roads
and bridges can flood very quickly. And these flash floods have become more and more common
recently. Warnings of flash floods in the area are always broadcast on the TV and the radio, but
too many people ignore the alerts. They go out in their cars without thinking and then get stuck
when the water level rises. Here the weather can change very fast; we get torrential rain and on
flatlands like this, that’s dangerous. The water can move at quite a speed, and the strong currents
can carry away cars and other vehicles. This sign is fairly new. We’ve put up a lot of them in the
area. We want to make sure people don’t just ignore the sign, so we’ve given it a humorous
message—hopefully that way they won’t forget!
4
A: Right. And finally, the kind of disaster that doesn’t happen very often and a sign that certainly is
alarming. We finish our tour in Recife, on the northeast coast of Brazil. We interviewed a
resident of Boa Viagem beach where the main danger lurks… and what a danger!
G: As you can see, the sign really hasn’t made any difference. People haven’t stopped coming to the
beach. There hasn’t been a fatal attack on this beach yet this year, thankfully, and I suppose
maybe until there is one, they’ll just keep swimming in the ocean.
A: Have you ever seen a shark attack?
G: No, I haven’t. I’ve seen sharks in the waters, and they come up really close to the shore. But
we’ve always been able to warn people in time. I’ve never actually seen one attack a person, but
we all know they can, and do.
A: So why do people continue to swim here?
G: They think if they aren’t swimming in deep water, it’s OK... as long as they stay close to the
shore. But you know, when there are sharks around, an attack can happen anytime, anywhere.
We’ve put up more signs, and we’ve visited the local schools and told the kids of the danger;
they’re the ones who take the most risks. Kids and tourists—that’s why the signs are also in
English—for the tourists, of course.
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[4.3] page 45, Exercise 2b
In the fight to cut back on plastic, more and more governments are trying to phase out plastic bags, or at
least make customers pay for them at the checkout. In Ireland the government recently introduced a tax
on plastic bags, and in the first year bag use fell by 95%. It’s a high-profile campaign in many countries,
but is it really worth it? Well, probably it is, when you look at how many bags we use each year. And
especially when you look at what usually happens to most of them. Let’s look at a typical life cycle of a
plastic bag. A plastic bag starts out its life on a production line. It’s distributed to stores and retailers and
may have a logo stamped on it. In the store we use it to take our shopping home. Once at home, it may
get used again to carry more shopping, or possibly to clean up after the dog. We may take it with us on a
picnic. We may even put it in a trashcan, or better yet, a recycling container. But only a very small
proportion of bags actually ever get recycled. A much larger proportion are disposed of along with other
household waste and end up in open garbage dumps, where they may get caught by the wind and carried
far and wide. A lot of plastic bags end up in the ocean. The ocean is full of plastic, and not only plastic
bags; there are plastic bottles and plastic wrappers and plastic boxes, even children’s plastic toys. And all
this garbage gets carried by the currents and trapped in huge, floating garbage dumps. One of the largest
of these is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. It’s bigger than the state of Texas, and it is continually
growing. Governments say it’s too expensive to clean it up. Meanwhile, environmentalists are studying
the effects of plastic on marine life, and the results are truly scary.
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A: Yes, they did—and apparently they’d got so desperate that at the end they’d even started drinking
seawater.
B: Seawater? That’s supposed to be really bad for you, isn’t it? Though I’m not sure why.
A: Yeah, it speeds up dehydration I think…
B: So how were they rescued, then?
A: A tuna boat picked them up. They were really lucky—they were kilometers away from any
shipping lanes. Their families thought they were dead. They’d already held a memorial service
for the boys…
B: They had? Well, they must have been really happy to see them!
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Unit 5: Bridges, Borders and Barriers
[5.1] page 49, Exercise 1b
A: Well, the computer screen is an easy one to analyze, isn’t it?
B: Yes, social networking sites like Facebook allow you to contact anybody in the world.
A: Yeah, for example, you can find someone you’ve lost touch with… it provides that link, so I
guess that Facebook could be building bridges.
B: And… and we could also say the Internet reaches across borders, too.
A: But then that can be a problem, can’t it? Some people see Facebook and Twitter as an invasion of
privacy, you know…
B: OK, so, then you can put up barriers, even block particular people completely so they can never
get in touch with you.
A: Right, I see what you mean.
B: You have to do something to prevent everyone from seeing everything about your private life,
otherwise it can be dangerous. Too much information!
A: Yeah, you’re right about that. OK. What’s next?
B: Now I really like this photo… it’s beautiful really, I mean…
A: I think it symbolizes reaching out… breaking down barriers between ages, bridging the
generation gap. Sometimes there’s this big gap between two people because of age.
B: I guess that’s why it’s there, it’s like a contrast with the Facebook image, the woman sitting alone
looking at the screen, and here the two people are together, shaking hands, about to enjoy each
other’s company, however different they may be.
A: Yeah… and joining hands refers to establishing new links with people and how we can do that.
And now finally this sad image…
B: Keep Out! Yeah, that’s sad, I guess.
A: You know, I was told that this photo was taken on the border between the USA and Mexico, in
the state of Arizona.
B: Wow, OK, that’s symbolic… So, it’s saying you can’t cross this land for two reasons: one,
because it could be private land or two, because it might be a different country. So that’s a barrier
as well, of course, something that divides nations and people, that stops them from connecting…
It’s the opposite of the image of the two people shaking hands, connecting. Here a border or a
wall can only separate…
© RICHMOND 2012
much more, and so much more quickly on a social network like Facebook or Twitter than you can on the
news.
3 Thom
I used to use social networks to share photos of my family vacations, but now I use it to help me with
my work. There are so many other people out there doing the same work as me, and they’re all
interested in sharing new information and new techniques. It’s a great way to learn, and the job market’s
changing so quickly. I think it’s the only possible way to stay up to date.
© RICHMOND 2012
A: Thanks. And your passport, please? Where are you staying in Thailand? You need to fill in that
part as well.
B: OK, sorry, it’s the Crowne Plaza hotel.
A: Is your trip for business or pleasure?
B: I’m on vacation.
A: And what is your occupation, sir?
B: Civil servant.
A: OK. And how long are you intending to stay here?
B: Three weeks.
A: And where are you traveling from?
B: Los Angeles. The United Airlines flight. There, you see…
A: OK. Are you planning to visit other parts of the country?
B: Yes, I want to visit Chiang Mai.
A: Oh, it’s very nice there… Well, I think that’s enough information. Thank you and welcome to
Thailand, Mr. Bianchi. Bye. Next, please!
2
C: Hello. Place your index finger there, Mrs. Strauss.
D: OK.
C: OK, now look straight ahead at the camera for two seconds… Thanks. Passport.
D: There you go.
C: Occupation?
D: I’m a dentist.
C: And… you’re from Germany but a resident of Spain, correct?
D: That’s right.
C: Why are you visiting Canada?
D: My brother lives here.
C: Are you going to stay with him?
D: Yes, I am. Here, in Toronto. I put the address here.
C: And you’re leaving… let me see… in ten days’ time, is that right?
D: Yes, that’s right. Here’s my return ticket…
C: OK, fine, that’ll be everything, then. Next!
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Unit 6: Global and Local
[6.1] page 58, Exercise 3a
Today, we’re going to look at some typical festivals that take place every year and what happens when
these are held in different parts of the world. Some you’ll be familiar with and others you probably
won’t. Eid is an Arabic word meaning “festivity,” while fitr means “conclusion of the fast,” and so the
holiday commemorates the conclusion of the thirty days of daytime fasting that Muslims observe during
the month of Ramadan. Of course, it’s celebrated in the entire Muslim world, and nowadays that
includes countries like the UK where the Muslim community represents an important, and growing,
ethnic minority. Since 2007, this event has been held in Trafalgar Square in London, and it’s called “Eid
in the Square.” This shows how a country’s customs are altered by changes in population. It would have
been hard to imagine a Muslim festival taking place in Trafalgar Square a decade ago, but now it forms
part of the city’s multicultural identity.
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4 I think Berlin is the worst place to be at Carnival time. It’s too noisy and it’s full of tourists. And
it’s so commercial now. Everything is so expensive; it’s a good idea to stay away.
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E: Yes, that’s it. Now, in the twenty-first century, a psychiatrist, a descendant of the guardians of the
House of Wisdom, Dr. Ramzi Razem, is looking for the stones. He believes he can use their
power to fight evil and save the planet. I: Of course—the classic mission of all superheroes! So,
who are the 99?
E: They are 99 young people from around the world, and each one finds one of the stones. And the
stone gives them a superpower. Each power is different, each power is unique. Some have
classical superpowers like super strength or super speed; others have more unusual powers like
the ability to create light or to become invisible. Dr. Razem’s mission is to bring these young
people together, to teach them how to use their powers to fight darkness and evil. I: But who
exactly are they fighting against?
E: The main bad guy in the story is Rughal. He too knows about the stones and their powers, but of
course he wants to use the powers for his own personal gains. He wants to create an army of
superheroes who will follow his commands and take over the whole world. He has no
superpowers himself, but he’s a strong character. None of the 99 is strong enough to fight him
alone. If they want to win, they have to work as a team and learn about the three key values of
tolerance, acceptance and cooperation.
I: So, has the series been a success so far?
E: The series has become incredibly popular. The comics have sold millions of copies, both in the
Arab world and beyond. In 2009, the TV series was launched. In 2010, the 99 teamed up with
Superman, Batman and the other superheroes of the Justice League to fight together against evil.
So yes, I guess they’re a success.
I: Thank you, Eshan. So, are the 99 just another set of comic book heroes, or can they really be a
new force for good in real life? Write and let us know what you think! Send us an e-mail or leave
a comment.
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[6.8] page 63, Exercise 3
1 Superman has been banned in elementary schools.
2 Teachers say children should watch at least five hours of TV a day.
3 Experts now say that video games can be good for kids.
4 Cartoon superheroes are good role models for children.
[6.10] page 66
1
A: So, you’re saying you would ban Halloween and other foreign festivals and only have local
ones?
B: No, what I meant was that we need to preserve our traditions, that’s all.
2
A: OK, sorry, I’ll rephrase the question. What I’m saying is would you rather eat a locally grown
apple or an imported one? It’s a simple question.
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Review B
[R7] page 68, Exercise 4
1 There’s water everywhere! The torrential rain brought devastation, and this village suffered the
most. This is the worst flood in living memory.
2 Some of the buildings were built to withstand this kind of tremor, but others fell as if they were
made of paper. The earthquake caused great destruction in the poorer parts of town…
3 It hit the coast with tremendous force. The wind direction changed suddenly and nobody was
prepared, partly because it was the first hurricane of the season.
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[R11] page 70, Exercise 2c
The Piazza San Marco is a real must. It’s a good idea to go in the spring because it’s not too hot then.
The worst thing you can do is go during Carnival–it’s full of tourists. If you have the time, don’t miss an
Italian opera.
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Unit 7: Is This Yours?
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[7.3] page 75, Exercise 1b
My Bed is a work of art by the British artist Tracey Emin. It is her real bed. It was first exhibited at the
Tate Gallery in London in 1998. It created a lot of discussion and debate. It was bought by the British
advertising tycoon Charles Saatchi for £150,000 to be exhibited at the Saatchi art gallery in London
when it opened its new premises in 2003.
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A: So which one is it going to be?
B: I don’t know. I like them both. What do you think?
A: I think the first one looks better, the rainbow one. It’ll look great in your living room.
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B: I don’t know! She’s so difficult to buy for. She’s always complaining that her house is cluttered
and too full of stuff, so I can’t buy her a picture or a plant or anything like that.
A: Get her something for the kitchen. You know, some kind of kitchen appliance.
B: No, she’d hate that! No, I want to get her something for her, something she can enjoy.
A: A book maybe?
B: No, more stuff!
A: Music?
B: I don’t know. Her taste is so different from mine, I just never seem to get it right.
A: Chocolates?
B: She does love chocolate, but no, she says she’s trying to lose weight, so she wouldn’t thank me
for that!
A: Hey, what about this?
B: What?
A: This link here—see. It says “experiences.”
B: Experiences? What’s that?
A: It’s stuff like tickets to concerts, a free trip somewhere, or something like dinner for two, or a day
at a spa, that kind of thing.
B: Hey, that might be a good idea. Let’s look at the spas. I like this one—a day for two at a local
spa.
A: Check to see if there’s one near where she lives.
B: Yes, there is. Great, that’s it! Problem solved. Thank you! It’ll be a nice surprise for her. What
about you? Are you going to get something similar for your mom?
A: Nah, I’ll just get flowers.
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You probably wonder what this is. It’s not something valuable or precious or anything like that, but it
has great sentimental value. I guess it’s one of my most treasured possessions, and it has some very
special associations for me. What? Well, I was in Mexico on vacation a few years ago, and I was staying
in a hotel on the beach. Anyway, in the hotel they gave us a free gift, and it was this. When you got into
the room, there was this little animal next to your bed. When I checked out, I took the toy with me. I
travel a lot for work, and whenever I travel I take the tortoise with me. It’s like a reminder of home,
something familiar among the unfamiliar. It’s embarrassing to admit it, I guess, because I’m an adult and
I shouldn’t be traveling around with a child’s toy. Now, when I arrive at a new hotel, the first thing I do
is place the little animal next to my bed. When I wake up in the morning, there it is and I like to see it. I
know it’s stupid, but there’s something reassuring about having it with me. The funny thing is, if I lost it
or left it behind, I don’t think I’d be sad because I realize it’s silly to be attached to a toy.
2
It wasn’t difficult for me to choose an important object. I can’t live without my glasses because I can’t
read without them: it’s as simple as that. I mean, they’re an absolute necessity. I can’t leave the house
without them. These particular glasses are fairly new. I’ve only had them for about two months. I had
my old ones for years, and of course my prescription changed. By the end I couldn’t see a thing with the
old ones; these new ones are great. I try and make sure I always keep them in the same place, but
sometimes I put them down somewhere else… and I can spend ages looking around the apartment until I
find them! It’s terrible to be so dependent on something. I guess I could get a spare pair; that would
solve that problem. I should do that…
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Unit 8: Telling a Different Story
[8.1] page 83, Exercise 4a
1
Well, I’m not sure. I don’t think women like soccer much. Soccer stadiums are usually full of men,
aren’t they? But, yes it does bring people together. People are always exchanging stories and opinions
about it. My problem with soccer is that it’s always in the media. Every time you turn on the news or
open a newspaper, it’s always the same old story—soccer, soccer, soccer. What if you’re not interested
in soccer?
2
Yes, absolutely right. Hip-hop is a great way to express yourself. It’s like poetry you recite, that you read
aloud. People can find a voice when they rap, and women do it, too, of course! Just because of one or
two well-known cases years ago, now all we get is negative stereotypes about it. People prefer to
marginalize it and make up these lies. It’s time to tell the other side of the story.
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the best cup of tea. At the end of the tour we all went to a pub to continue our conversations. We asked
so many questions! It was fascinating to be able to get to know our guide and get such an interesting
insight into a whole new side of London. I took some great photos, too, by the way. I really feel like I
know the city so much better now. If you’re ever in London, I really recommend these tours. I wonder if
they’d work back home as well. The Unseen Tours of São Paulo. It’s certainly an idea that’s worth
thinking about!
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N: Yes.
S: Fine. I’ll let him know.
N: Thanks.
2
You’ve reached the voice mail of Sabine Meyer. Please leave a message after the tone.
M: Sabine, listen. It’s Marc. You won’t believe this, I’m still at the airport. Uh… there are terrible
delays, same old story… Um… I won’t be able to travel tonight. So… do you think you could
call Pamela? Tell her not to pick me up at the airport or text me her number. I don’t have it for
some reason. Thanks a lot! Bye!
3
The cell phone you’ve called is turned off or currently unavailable. Leave a message after the
tone.
D: Sarah, hi, this is Damian. I’m in the square. Where are you? You asked me to be here at 4:15,
didn’t you? I texted you before. Call me, I’m here, OK, in front of the town hall? OK, bye!
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[8.9] page 91, Exercise 2a
A: Hi, Gary. Is it a good time for you to talk? Now, I wonder if you could prepare the following
things for next week’s meeting on the tenth. Can you take this down?
B: Sure, of course.
A: Well, we have to get an agenda together and send it out to all parties ASAP. Can you do that by
this afternoon?
B: Fine.
A: Then get in touch with Sandra in marketing, and have her bring up some publicity material—
dossiers, posters, etc. We’ll need all that to show to the clients.
B: OK, no problem. Anything else?
A: We’re going to have a cocktail party in the evening, and we’ll need to have it catered. Can I leave
that up to you?
B: Sure.
A: And can you decide who would do a better job? Remember, it’s a small gathering—twenty
people maximum. Very exclusive.
B: I think Richards would do a good job.
A: Well, you decide.
B: Sure.
A: Oh, yes, and another thing, it has nothing to do with the meeting, but it’s urgent.
B: Yes?
A: Can you call de Freitas about that shipment to Mexico, that has to go out tomorrow at the latest?
B: OK, will do. I’d better go then. Bye!
A: Sure, talk to you later then. Bye!
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Unit 9: Rules and Regulations
[9.1] page 93, Exercise 2
1
A: It was really ironic. I mean, the presentation was all about using cell phones in marketing, and
there on the door to the room was this big sign: No Cell Phones Allowed!
B: You mean, like, turn off all cell phones?
A: Yeah, that’s it. You know, a big picture of a cell phone with a slash through it!
B: Oh, no! That is ironic!
A: And totally unnecessary! I mean, come on, what century are we in?
B: So, did you turn your phones off?
A: Nah, of course not—I mean, it’s not as if cell phones were illegal. In fact, we used them all the
way through the presentation; they showed us some great new apps as well. It’s amazing what
you can do with cell phones these days!
B: It is, isn’t it?
2
A: I saw this really funny sign in the park today.
B: Yeah?
A: Yeah, I’d never seen it before… It was, like, a high-heeled shoe with a slash through it.
B: What? A shoe?
A: Yeah, with high heels, in the children’s playground…
B: You mean like no high heels allowed, for the moms I guess, not the kids?
A: Yeah.
B: They have a point, though. I mean, how can you play with your kids if you’re in high heels?
A: I don’t think that’s the real reason.
B: No?
A: No, it’s because the heels damage the surface, you know, the soft rubber surface under the
swings and things…
B: Ah, yes, of course, it makes sense now… I guess it’s a little selfish and a little irresponsible to
wear shoes that are going to damage the kids’ play area!
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R2: Our school computers are carefully controlled, a lot of social networking and music sites are
blocked. Students aren’t allowed to access music sites or chatrooms on the school computers. I
think it makes sense from a security point of view. And, anyway, they can do all that on their cell
phones.
I: What about phones? Are those banned?
R1: No, not at all. Students are allowed to bring their cell phones to class. It can be really good
because then we don’t have to rely on the school Wi-Fi, which isn’t always very efficient! And
they’re great for making recordings, taking photos, preparing presentations and so on. Of course
students must be taught to be responsible. We don’t share phone numbers in case of
cyberbullying, and we have to monitor their use very closely. They mustn’t misuse the Internet
whether it’s on their phones or on a computer. We’re very strict with offenders. They have to
learn about good and bad use of the Internet, and I think that’s something we really must help
them with; it’s such an important skill for their futures. We talk about it a lot in class, too…
responsibilities and duties and safety, above all safety. They really need to know about the
dangers of the Internet. I think that’s a really important part of my job.
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but on the whole it was seen as being inevitable. But one bar and restaurant owner here in
Marbella simply refused to accept the new law. He refused to accept that he wasn’t allowed to
choose what to do in his own establishment, and he decided to make a stand against the new law.
A: So what did he do?
M: He posted signs in his bar and restaurant stating that smoking was allowed. He claimed that
banning smoking would ruin his business. He let his customers continue to smoke and didn’t
make them stand out in the street. His regular customers were happy, but the neighboring bars
and restaurants weren’t. They reported him to the authorities, and he was threatened with a fine
of 145,000 euros and of having his business closed down immediately. The rebel bar and
restaurant owner stuck to his guns. When the authorities informed him he would be closed down,
he invited a group of friends to join him in a protest at his bar and restaurant, where they spent
the whole night smoking cigarettes and cigars. There was a party atmosphere, but the party soon
came to an end. After long talks with his lawyer and the local authorities, and being forced to
close down for almost a week, the bar and restaurant owner finally agreed to take down all the
smoking signs and posters attacking the antismoking law and replace them with the regulation no
smoking signs.
A: And did he? Yes, he did, and now his bar and restaurant is just like all the others, and all his
customers have to go outside if they want to smoke. Will this ruin his business? Only time will
tell!
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B: Thank you! Yes, the elevator is out of order! I can usually manage stairs, but these are really
steep—and there are so many of them.
A: I can remember what it was like when mine were that age!
B: Well, thank you for offering to help; not many people do, you know.
A: It’s a pleasure. There you are! Bye, have a nice day.
B: Thank you. You, too.
3
A: Sorry, do you think you could help? It’s just so difficult with the stroller.
B: Sure thing, no problem. Look, let me take the stroller; it’s easier that way.
A: Are you sure? We can take it up together…
B: No, no, you have enough on your hands! There you are.
A: Thank you so much! That was a big help; I don’t know how I’d have done it by myself.
B: No problem! A pleasure… Bye.
A: Thanks again, bye…
4
A: Oh, no! the bag broke…
B: Here, let me help you…
A: Thank you! They’re all over the place!
B: Here are a few more… Oh, yes, and there’s one over here.
A: I think we have them all now… thank you! That was so embarrassing!
B: Nah, happens all the time! I blame the bag!
A: Thanks again. Bye.
B: Bye.
5
A: Do you need any help with that? It looks heavy. Here, let me do it for you.
B: Oh, thank you, if you don’t mind, that’d be wonderful.
A: No problem at all. There you are. Safe and sound.
B: Thank you, you’re very kind.
6
A: Excuse me, I was wondering if you could please help me with this. I don’t seem to be able to get
it up on the rack.
B: Yes, of course. Here, let me do it.
A: Thank you so much!
B: You’re welcome. There you are.
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2
Budget airlines are really getting rude. Now you have to print your boarding pass before you get on the
plane, otherwise they charge you; it happened to me. The thing was I had no idea about that change, so
yes, I had to pay right then and there. What are you supposed to do if you don’t have a printer. That’s
what I want to know. Another thing… your luggage also has to be a certain size. If it’s too large, again
you have to pay, it’s crazy. Are you really going to measure your suitcase before you go to the airport?
It’s just a way for the airlines to make more money… It would be OK if the fares were always cheap, but
they aren’t. And then there all the rules about carrying liquids on board; you can’t even take a bottle of
water. They force you to buy their expensive water… I mean flying is getting ridiculous!
3
One thing that really annoys me is the change in the speed limit. The local government announced that
the limit would drop from 120 to 100 km/h on the freeway around the downtown area. It’s to prevent
accidents and to help the environment. If we go slower, there’s less pollution it seems. Well, anyway, I
didn’t know about the change, and during the first week I was fined. It wasn’t my fault; I just didn’t see
the signs. I mean, how was I to know? I was really annoyed about that.
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Review C
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I’m looking for a present for my nephew. He likes model trains, that kind of thing.
2
I want to go on a vacation, somewhere I can relax and have a good time, things like that.
3
Before I start the job, I need to know something more about my schedule and other conditions.
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Unit 10: Insights and Innovations
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N: Barefoot running? Are you nuts? That must be really hard on your feet!
B: No, listen, before you start, just let me tell you how I heard about it. I read this book called Born
to Run by this guy named Chris McDougall. His whole argument is that it is healthier to run
barefoot.
N: Because?
B: Well, he first read about this runner that won a 160-kilometer race through the mountains
wearing only a pair of sandals, at the age of fifty-five! And McDougall wondered how he could
run like that without being injured.
N: Well, he must have been pretty unusual, that’s for sure! B: Apparently he was a member of this
tribe, the Tarahumara, who all run like that—barefoot or with sandals. It’s a way of life for them.
They do it in a very natural way.
N: And so?
B: Well, that was his inspiration, and the book talks about a whole new way of looking at running.
For example, there are people who say that conventional running shoes give you more support
and protect your feet from impact when you’re running on hard ground. But when you read Born
to Run, you realize it’s just the opposite. In fact, sports shoes cause injuries. They put pressure on
your feet and…
N: I’m not sure I believe that. It seems more comfortable to me to run in sneakers, there’s no
comparison. To go running barefoot? I can’t imagine the pain!
B: No, it’s not like that. Well, at first, it’s not easy, but you get used to it after a while.
N: I’m not sure I could, you know.
B: Well, if you don’t like that idea, you can try out these sports shoes that make you feel like you’re
barefoot. They’re called FiveFingers and they’re incredible. They have thin, flexible soles that
are really comfortable, and they look amazing, like having gloves on your feet.
N: Now I’ve heard everything—hi-tech shoes that make you feel like you’re running barefoot. That
just doesn’t make sense.
B: There are lots of runners who have gotten rid of their shoes, and they’ve gotten rid of their stress
and injuries as well. They’ve changed their habits, and they’re having a lot more fun running.
N: What does that have to do with stress?
B: Well, the book says that the way we run is all wrong. First, there are races that require special
preparation and equipment, and there are companies that make a lot of money from running
products. It’s big business. And there are people who run marathons. They are obsessed with
beating their time and keeping up with others. When they don’t reach their goal, they just burn
out or give up. There are people who say you have to suffer, that running has to hurt. I think
that’s all wrong. For the Tarahumara, running isn’t work, it’s an art, and I believe that, too.
N: Well, good for you, but I think your barefoot running’s crazy, honestly I do.
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[10.5] page 113, Exercise 1
Jenny
I’ve done things by the book all my life… I’m a good girl… but something you don’t know about me is
that three weeks into my second year I dropped out of college. One weekend I took the bus home to
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, spent a night at home to think about my future and then went back to
Pennsylvania in my dad’s car. I packed up my dorm room and I left all by myself. The one moment I’ll
never forget was when I was leaving the campus for the final time, after I had packed all my stuff. I sat
in the car and it was like this weight had been lifted off my shoulders, and I felt free. And that was my
epiphany moment. I guess right then I finally felt like an adult. I was independent and I didn’t have to do
what others told me… It was a really tough decision to make because my parents fought me over this.
They were really unhappy about what I did… I know I really disappointed them. But looking back I
know it was the right decision. Everyone goes to college because that’s what you’re meant to do… But
I’ve realized that you can create your own path, not follow the one everyone else follows.
Marco
My parents always wanted me to be a vet, like my father. So I studied veterinary medicine and started
working with my dad. Of course I love animals, but I’ve also seen so many suffer. I suppose that’s one
of the reasons why I didn’t want to continue. I wasn’t very good at dealing with the owners when their
animal had to be put down. One day, I’d had a particularly bad experience, and I decided to stop work
for a few days. I went home and thought about my future. That break gave me some perspective on
things; I realized that being vet wasn’t really for me. But what I could do instead? I thought of the
hobbies I’d had as a child, and I saw the light… I’d always loved taking pictures. So I decided to take a
photography postgraduate course and set myself up as a professional photographer. It’s not always easy
to find interesting work, but I’m doing something that I genuinely want to do. Photography has become
my new career path. My father wasn’t very happy at first, but now he sees it was the right decision.
© RICHMOND 2012
2
A: I’d like two copies of this key, please.
B: I’m sorry, we don’t make copies of security keys.
A: Oh, no. Do you know of anywhere that does?
B: Mm… maybe the jeweler’s on the first floor does… You could try there.
A: OK, thanks. I’ll give it a try.
3
A: Hi, I’ve having problems with the gears; they seem to be stuck.
B: Let’s have a look. Mm… yes… I think we may need to replace the chain here… See.
A: Oh, dear… how long will it take?
B: Let me see… if we can get the parts delivered this afternoon… Yes, that’s no problem. We can
have it for you by tomorrow morning. Is that OK?
A: Yeah, that’ll be fine. Thanks!
4
A: Is there anywhere near here where I can get my bike fixed?
B: Erm… I’m not sure… let’s see… Oh, yes, there’s a new bike shop on West Street across from the
station. I think they do repairs.
5
A: Do you know where I can get a key made?
B: Yes, there’s a place next to the supermarket over there. See? At the end of the street?
A: Thanks!
6
A: Oh, no! The heel’s come off my shoe! I really need to get that fixed!
B: There’s a shoe hospital on the ground floor—you can get it fixed there.
A: That’s great. Thanks!
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Unit 11: A Sense of Identity
[11.1] page 119, Exercise 1
1 Tonight, I’d prefer to eat out.
2 If I could go on vacation now, I’d go to Brazil.
3 It’d be nice if you said yes.
4 I’d never take that risk.
5 I wouldn’t like to say.
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say they find it easier to socialize online, you know. They say they can be more extroverted
online, but they’re still shy face-to-face. I wonder if this particular result is because we did the
survey in Northern Europe. People say that shyness is a characteristic of people here, that they
need to socialize more, be more extroverted.
I: OK, so what’s the last one?
N: Well, this is slightly different because it’s a physical thing. Some people are just clumsy, aren’t
they? They spill things, they knock things over, you know, they’re not coordinated, especially
when they’re feeling nervous.
I: I know exactly what you mean!
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A: Have you thought about just focusing on one thing at a time? Turn off the computer, or
disconnect your e-mail or the Internet so that you won’t be tempted to get distracted by other
things.
B: That’s a good idea. Thanks a lot!
2
A: In your situation, I’d take regular breaks, do something really different just to clear your head
and then go back to the work that you have to do.
B: That doesn’t normally work for me.
A: Well, you could always set yourself a schedule. Tell yourself you’re going to get this done by a
specific time. Set yourself a goal!
B: OK, I’ll try that.
A: Let me know!
3
A: If that were me, I’d go somewhere else or I’d wear headphones. That usually helps my
concentration because it shuts out all the noise. If I had a mental block, that’s what I’d do, for
sure. You ought to try it.
B: You know, I’d prefer not to… I don’t know why!
A: Well, then get out of the house, do something different.
B: Yes, that could work, thanks!
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[11.9] page 125, Exercise 4
1
Well, thank you, everybody, for coming. I’d like to thank Logic Systems for inviting me to speak
to you all today. My name’s Ralph Sharma, and I’m going to speak about the field of industrial
design. I’d like to start by explaining the outline of my talk.
2
A: Good morning, pleased to meet you, Jonathan, come in.
B: Pleased to meet you, too. Thank you for giving me this opportunity.
A: Now, tell me why are you interested in this position?
B: Well, I feel I’m well qualified for the position because of my previous work experience… as you
can probably see from my CV.
A: Yes, I was going to ask you about that. Are you experienced at organizing teams?
3
A: Good-bye. It was nice to meet you. We’ll be in touch by e-mail.
B: Yes, likewise. I look forward to hearing from you when it’s convenient.
A: That’s great. You should hear from us within a week.
B: Excellent, thanks very much. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any additional
information.
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Unit 12: Memories
[12.1] page 127, Exercise 2a
1
(This morning) I forgot to buy milk yesterday. My roommate had asked me to buy some milk on the way
home from work, but I forgot. So we had no milk for our cereal at breakfast. He wasn’t very pleased!
2
(Yesterday) My friend had asked me to lend him a book for our course. He even called me up to remind
me to bring it with me—and I still forgot! I have such a bad memory! I felt really bad. But I did
remember to give it to him today!
3
(Last week) I felt awful about it. I completely forgot Sunday was Mother’s Day. It wasn’t until the day
after that I remembered. I’m usually good at remembering things like that. And the worst thing was I
usually call my mom on Sundays, but last Sunday, what with one thing and another, I just didn’t
remember to call. I sent her a late card, but it isn’t the same. I’ll definitely remember next year! I’ve set
my phone to remind me!
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morning. The café had only just opened when I moved in, and it was really popular. I only lived there for
six months, and ever since I’ve always associated the smell of coffee with the clatter of cups and the
chatter of voices.
2
I grew up in the Czech Republic. I’ll never forget the first time I saw the ocean. I was nineteen. I had
never seen the ocean before. I had just started working for a family, taking care of their three kids. They
had planned a vacation in Spain, and they took me with them. Seeing the ocean for the first time was
incredible! It was such an amazing sight. So big, so open. I just stood there and looked at it, trying to
take it all in. And once I actually got in the water, they just couldn’t tear me away! I loved the waves, the
sound they made on the sand. We could hear them from our hotel room. The kids slept so well; they
were so tired. It made my job really easy, as they were lulled to sleep by the waves.
3
I love this photo. We took it on vacation last year in Buenos Aires. It brings back great memories of our
trip; this was one of the highlights. We’d just been to visit the antique market in San Telmo—It’s great.
It’s held once a week on Sunday; it’s a great place to just soak up the atmosphere. Anyway, we were just
sitting down for coffee when this couple started dancing in the square in front of us. It was amazing…
they were so good. I’ve seen the tango so many times in dance halls and theaters, but nothing beats
seeing it live on the streets of downtown BA. Whenever I look at this photo, the scene just comes
flooding back, and I can hear the music playing in my mind.
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what I’ve read, and then I try to use the new words I’ve found. Or sometimes I just practice them in my
head, you know, kind of talking to myself in English. Mm… does that sound a little crazy?
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We regret to announce that tonight’s performance has been canceled due to adverse weather conditions.
All tickets will be refunded at the ticket office.
2
All trains traveling south from New York will be delayed due to a temporary problem with the signaling
system. We apologize for any inconvenience.
3
We’re afraid we can’t answer the phone at the moment. Please leave a message and we’ll get back to you
as soon as we can.
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Review D
[R21] page 136, Exercise 1b
This invention is of great benefit to people who live a long way from each other. It enables people to
communicate with each other cheaply, and it’s a great help to people who live alone.
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A: Well, yes, I have actually, but I don’t want to leave this one until I do. I need my boss to give me
a good reference.
B: Well then, it looks like you’re gonna have to work tomorrow!
A: Yup… looks like it!
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I would find learning more formal expressions very useful as well. The good thing was that the
interviewer understood me, and the person who I spoke to at the end said I sounded very American.
2
The thing which I still find really… erm, difficult is… is sounding fluent. I still speak in short sentences.
I have to think about… about what I want…. what I’m going to say next. I really need to work on that. If
I had… if I had more time, I could do a language exchange. That’s where I could get some more erm…
some more practice. I have been told that just chatting a little bit… chatting a little bit everyday…
should help. I think that would be worth doing. I don’t really need English for work. And I don't want to
sound like a native speaker who says everything erm… you know… perfectly. I just want to be… erm
to sound like myself, with erm… the same confidence, the same confidence I have in my mother tongue.
I wish teachers had told me that when I was studying. Next week, I’m seeing an Australian erm…
friend who’s going to teach me all the… erm… slang, yeah, slang and street language from Australia.
That’ll be great!
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