How Are You? Beginning English with the Verb "To Be" Read the conversations below: Introductions (At a party) Peter: Hello. Jane: Hi! Peter: My name is Peter. What's your name? Jane: My name is Jane. Nice to meet you. Peter: It's a pleasure. This is a great party! Jane: Yes, it is. Where are you from? Peter: I'm from Amsterdam. Jane: Amsterdam? Really, are you German? Peter: NO, I'm not German. I'm Dutch. Jane: Oh, you're Dutch. Sorry about that. Peter: That's OK. Where are you from? Jane: I'm from London, but I'm not British. Peter: No, what are you? Jane: Well, my parents were Spanish, so I'm Spanish, too. Peter: That's very interesting. Spain is a beautiful country. Jane: Thank you. It IS a wonderful place.
Ken: Hello, My name's Ken. What's your name? Jack: Jack. How are you? Ken: I'm fine, and you? Jack: Great. Where are you from? Ken: I'm from Seattle. Ken: Where is that girl from? Jack: She's from Japan Ken: How old is she? Jack: She's twenty-six Complete the conversation. Click on the arrow to see the answer.
Mary: Hello. My Mary. What's name? Peter: Peter. How you? Mary: I'm and you? Peter: OK, you from? Mary: from Ireland. The above conversations used the verb "to be". Look at the conjugation charts of the verb "to be" Positive
I
am
from Seattle.
He She It
is
from Toronto.
We You They
are
from Japan.
Negative
I
am not (I'm not)
from Seattle.
He She It
is not (isn't)
from Toronto.
We You They
are not (aren't)
from Japan.
Questions
Where
am
I
from?
Where
is
he she it
from
Where
are
we you they
from?
Read the text below My name is Ken Beare and I'm a teacher. My address is Green Street, 19 and my telephone number is . I'm 39 years old and I'm married. My daughter, Katherine, is two and half years old. My wife, Barbara, is Italian. She is a bank teller. Fill in the gaps in this paragraph. Click on the arrow to see the answer.
My name Mario and a doctor. My is York Avenue, 23 and my . 45 years and I'm married. My son, Peter, ten . My wife, Giorgia, is American. She a lawyer. Write a short paragraph about you! There are a number of phrases that are commonly used to introduce strangers. (name), I don't think you've met (name). I don't think you know (name) May I introduce you to (name) (name), do you know (name)? (name), I'd like you to meet (name) When you meet someone the first time, it is common to greet the person with "How do you do?" the correct response is "How do you do." Here is a short introductory conversation: Ken: Peter, I'd like you to meet Mary. Peter: How do you do? Mary: How do you do. Ken: Mary works for ... A variation is also "It's a pleasure to meet you." or "Pleased to meet you." Ken: Peter, I'd like you to meet Mary. Peter: It's a pleasure to meet you. Mary: How do you do. Ken: Mary works for ... Ken: Peter, I'd like you to meet Mary. Peter: How do you do? Mary: Pleased to meet you. Ken: Mary works for ... In informal situations, especially in North America, introductions are also made simply saying: "This is (name)." It is also common to just say "Hi" or "Hello" as a response in this informal setting. Ken: Peter, this is Mary. Peter: How do you do? Mary: Pleased to meet you. Ken: Mary works for ... It is also quite common to shake hands when you are introduced. After the initial introduction, hand shaking generally takes place in more formal, business situations. Otherwise, people just say "Hi."
Greetings - Social Language
Once you have been introduced to someone, the next time you see that person it is important to greet them. We also greet people as we leave people. In English (as in all languages), there are different ways to greet people in formal and informal situations. Formal Greetings: Arriving Good morning / afternoon / evening. Hello (name), how are you? Good day Sir / Madam (very formal) Informal Greetings: Arriving Hi / Hello How are you? What's up? (very informal) How are you doing? (very informal) It's important to note that the question "How are you?" or "What's up?" doesn't necessary need a response. If you do respond, these phrases are generally expected: Very well, thank you. And you? (formal) Fine / Great (informal) Formal Greetings: Departing Good morning / afternoon / evening. It was a pleasure seeing you. Goodbye. Note: After 8 p.m. - Good night. Informal Greetings: Departing Goodbye / Bye. See you (later). Later (very informal It is common to use a special greeting used just for that occasion on special days, holidays and other special occasions. Here are some of the most common: Birthdays Happy birthday! Best wishes / Good luck on your thirtieth (age - use an ordinal number) birthday! Many happy returns! Wedding / Anniversary
Congratulations! Best wishes / good luck on your tenth (number - use an ordinal number) anniversary! Here's to many more happy years together (used when making a toast) Special Holidays Merry Christmas! Happy New Year / Easter / Hanukkah / Ramadan etc. All the best for a happy New Year / Easter / Hanukkah / Ramadan etc. When making special greetings to children on their birthday and at Christmas, it is also common to ask them what they received: Merry Christmas! What did you get from Santa Claus? Happy Birthday! What did your Daddy get for you? Special Occasions
Congratulations on your promotion! All the best for your ... I'm so proud of you!
Speaking to Strangers - Social Language Here are a number of polite phrases used when trying to get the attention or help from people. The use of more formal language is common when speaking to someone you do not know: Interrupting It is common to first apologize before interrupting another person, or asking for help if you do not know the person. Excuse me, could I ... Sorry, do you think I could ... Excuse me, do you know ... I beg your pardon, could you help me? (formal)
Asking Someone to Repeat When asking for information you may have a hard time understanding in public places which can be very noisy (train stations, restaurants, stores, etc.). Here are phrases commonly used to ask someone to repeat what he has said:
Excuse me, I'm afraid I didn't understand. Could you repeat that? (formal) I'm sorry, I didn't catch that. (informal) What? (very informal!) I beg your pardon.
Travel Greetings - Social Language Here are a number of phrases used when saying goodbye to friends or family as the depart on trips, both short and long. Long Trips, Vacations, etc. American English Have a good trip. Enjoy your vacation. Have a good time in (destination) Long Trips, Vacations, etc. British English Have a good journey. Enjoy your holidays. Have a good time in (destination) Short Outings Enjoy! (American English) Have a good time at (destination place such as a restaurant) Have a good time in (destination city) When your friends or family return home it is common to use one of the following phrases: How was your vacation? (holiday in British English) Did you enjoy your time in (destination) How was your journey / flight / trip?
Beginner Dialogue: A Busy Day A Busy Day (two friends speaking in a park when they meet each other jogging) Barbara: Hi, Katherine, how are you today? Katherine: I'm great and you? Barbara: VERY busy! I'm jogging now, but later I have to do a lot! Katherine: What do you have to do? Barbara: Well, first of all, I have to do the shopping. We don't have anything to eat at home. Katherine: ... and then?
Barbara: Little Johnny has a basketball game this afternoon. I'm driving him to the game. Katherine: Oh, how is his team doing? Barbara: They're doing very well. Next week, they're travelling to Toronto for a tournament. Katherine: That's impressive. Barbara: Well, Johnny likes playing basketball. I'm happy he's enjoying it. What are you doing today? Katherine: I'm not doing much. I'm meeting some friends for lunch, but, other than that, I don't have much to do today. Barbara: You're so lucky! Katherine: No, you're the lucky one. I'd like to have so many things to do.
Beginner Dialogue: Weekend Sports A Great Workout (Two friends at the gym) Janet: Wow, this gym is great! What a fantastic workout! Susan: Yes, I like coming here very much. What other sports can you do? Janet: Well, I can play tennis, I can do a little karate and I go windsurfing in the summer. Susan: You're very fit! I can't do many sports. I like coming to the gym because the exercises are easy. Janet: Listen, I have an idea. Why don't you come to karate class with me? Susan: No, I can't do karate... Janet: ... but you can learn! Karate is a great sport. How about coming with me on Saturday? Susan: well, .... OK. Janet: Great, why don't we meet at my house at 10 in the morning? Susan: Sure, that's a good idea. (changing subjects) By the way, what other hobbies do you have? Janet: I like going to the cinema, and reading a little. Susan: Do you like cooking, or baking? Janet: No, I can't cook. I'm a horrible cook! Susan: Oh, I love cooking. I tell you what. Why don't I cook lunch after karate class? Janet: Now that's a great idea! Susan: OK, karate and lunch on Saturday. It's a date! Weekend Sports
(in the restaurant, two friends speaking) Susan: Oh, this is lovely. Would you like to try some? Christine: No thanks, Susan. I'm really enjoying my pasta! Susan: So, do you want to play tennis this weekend? Christine: I'm afraid I can't play tennis. Susan: NO, are you joking? I'm sure you can play tennis. EVERYBODY can play tennis. Christine: Well, I can't. BUT I can play golf. Susan: Really, I can play golf, too. - but not very well. Christine: I have an idea. Why don't we play tennis this weekend and then next weekend golf? Susan: OK, that's a good idea. You don't play tennis - I don't play golf. We both can learn a new sport! Christine: That's it. I think it's a brilliant idea! Susan: Now, tell me about your new job. When do you start? Christine: Next week. I'm in the accounting department. I make telephone calls to the banks, check the accounts, keep records... that sort of thing. Susan: It sounds like an excellent job. Christine: How is your job? Susan: Oh, it's OK. It's boring. I work at the computer all day long, each and every day at the computer. Christine: I'm sure it isn't so bad! Cooking (At a friend's house) Carol: This is a lovely house! Martha: Thank you. Carol, we call it home. Carol: It's very close to work, isn't it? Martha: Yes, it is. I always walk to work - even when it rains! Carol: I usually take the bus. It takes so long! Martha: How long does it take? Carol: Oh, it takes about 20 minutes. Martha: That is a long time. Well, have some cake. Carol: (taking a bite of some cake) this is delicious! Do you bake all of your own cakes? Martha: Yes, I usually bake something at the weekend. I like having sweets in the house.
Carol: You're a wonderful cook! Martha: Thank you, it's nothing really. Carol: I never cook. I'm just hopeless. My husband, David, usually does all the cooking. Martha: Do you often go out to eat? Carol: Yes, when he doesn't have time to cook, we go out to eat somewhere. Martha: There are some wonderful restaurants in the city. Carol: Too many! You can eat at a different restaurant every day. Monday - Chinese, Tuesday - Italian, Wednesday - Mexican, on and on ... The Meeting (Two workers in an office) James: Hi Alice. How are you today? Alice: Hi James. I'm fine, and you? James: Great, thank you. Remember, the meeting is at 3 o'clock. Alice: Excuse me, which meeting? James: Which meeting?! The meeting with the boss! Alice: Are you sure there is a meeting today? James: Alice, Alice, every month there is a meeting with the boss. This month that meeting is this afternoon. Alice: Calm down. OK, there's a meeting this afternoon. What time is it? James: Alice, this is important. The meeting is at three o'clock sharp! Alice: Thank you James... By the way, what time is it now? James: It's quarter past eleven. Alice: It's time for lunch! James: Lunch, now? Lunch time is at twelve. Alice: Well, I'm hungry now. James: You're funny Alice. This is an office. Alice: I'm hungry ... it's just a snack ... Personal Information (Two friends filling in a form together) Jim: Your painting is fantastic Roger! Roger: I'm happy you like it. It's for a competition. Here's the form.
Jim: Right. OK, here are the questions.... Your hands are dirty. Roger: ... from painting! What are the questions? Here's a pen (gives him a pen to fill the form in) Jim: What's your name? Roger: oh, that's difficult ... Roger! Jim: Ha, ha. What's your surname? Roger: I'm not sure ... Jim: Very funny! OK, surname - Tailor Roger: Yes, that's it! Jim: Next question please. Are you married or single? Roger: Single. I'm sure about that! Jim: What's your address? Roger: 72 London Road. Jim:... and what are your hobbies? Roger: hmmm.... painting, going windsurfing and watching TV. Jim: ... OK, last question. What's your telephone number? Roger: 0343 897 6514 Jim: 0343 897 6514 - Got it. Where's an envelope? Roger: Over there ...
ANY/SOME • Use "some" in positive sentences. We use some for both countable and uncountable nouns.
Example: I have some friends.
• Use "any" in negative sentences or questions. We use any for both countable and uncountable nouns.
Example: Do you have any cheese? - He doesn't have any friends in Chicago.
• Use "some" in questions when offering or requesting something that is there. Example: Would you like some bread? (offer) - Could I have some water? (request)
• Use "any" in negative sentences or questions. We use any for both countable and uncountable nouns.
Example: Do you have any cheese? - He doesn't have any friends in Chicago.
• Use "some" words - somebody, someone, somewhere and something - in positive sentences.
Example: He lives somewhere near here.
• Use "any" words - anybody, anyone, anywhere and anything - in negative sentences or questions.
Example: Do you know anything about that boy? - She doesn't have anywhere to go.
IN/TO/ON/AT for place IN Use 'in' with spaces:
• •
in a room / in a building in a garden / in a park
Use 'in' with bodies of water:
• • •
in the water in the sea in a river
Use 'in' with lines:
• •
in a row / in a line in a queue
AT Use 'at' with places:
• • • • ON
at at at at
the the the the
bus-stop door cinema end of the street
Use 'on' with surfaces:
• •
on the ceiling / on the wall / on the floor on the table
Use 'on' with small islands:
•
I stayed on Maui.
Use 'on' with directions:
• • •
on the left on the right straight on
TO Use 'to' with movement from one place to another:
• • •
I went to school. Did you go to work? Let's go to the shopping mall.
DO NOT Use 'to' with 'home'
Articles THE/A/AN •
a = indefinite article (not a specific object, one of a number of the same objects) with consonants She has a dog. I work in a factory. • an = indefinite article (not a specific object, one of a number of the same objects) with vowels (a,e,i,o,u) Can I have an apple? She is an English teacher. • the = definite article (a specific object that both the person speaking and the listener know) The car over there is fast. The teacher is very good, isn't he? • The first time you speak of something use "a or an", the next time you repeat that object use "the". I live in a house. The house is quite old and has four bedrooms. I ate in a Chinese restaurant. The restaurant was very good. • DO NOT use an article with countries, states, counties or provinces, lakes and mountains except when the country is a collection of states such as "The United States". He lives in Washington near Mount Rainier. They live in northern British Columbia.
•
Use an article with bodies of water, oceans and seas My country borders on the Pacific Ocean • DO NOT use an article when you are speaking about things in general I like Russian tea. She likes reading books. • DO NOT use an article when you are speaking about meals, places, and transport He has breakfast at home. I go to university. He comes to work by taxi.
LIKE
'Like' can be used as a verb or as a preposition. There are a number of common questions with 'like' that are easy to confuse.
•
What's he like? - 'What … like?' is used to ask about a person's or object's character and is general in nature. • What does he like? - This use of the verb 'like' is for general preferences. 'Like' as a verb is generally followed by the 'ing' form of the verb (I like playing tennis). • What does she look like? - 'Like' is used as a preposition to express physical appearance. In this case, 'like' can also mean 'similar to' if you are making a comparison to other people. • What would you like to drink? - Another common use of 'like' is in 'would like' to express wishes. Note that 'would like' is followed by the infinite form of the verb NOT the '-ing' form.
PAST TENSE IRREGULAR VERBS The past form of regular verbs ends in 'ed'. Irregular verbs must be studied individually. Here is a list of past forms of some of the most common irregular verbs. be - was/were become - became begin - began break - broke bring - brought build - built buy - bought come - came cost - cost cut - cut do - did drink - drank eat - ate find - found fly - flew get - got give - gave go - went have - had keep - kept
know - knew leave - left make - made meet - met pay - paid put - put read - read say - said see - saw sell - sold send - sent speak - spoke spend - spent take - took teach - taught tell - told think - thought
PRONOUNS There are four types of pronouns: Subject Pronouns, Object Pronouns, Possessive Pronouns and Demonstrative Pronouns. Here is a list and explanation showing the different types of pronouns:
•
Subject Pronouns - I, you, he, she, it, we, you, they function as the subject of a sentence: I live in New York. Do you like playing tennis? He doesn't want to come this evening. She works in London. It won't be easy. We are studying pronouns at the moment. You went to Paris last year, didn't you? They bought a new car last month.
•
Object Pronouns - me, you, him, her, it, us, you, them serve as the object of a verb. Give me the book. He told you to come tonight. She asked him to help. They visited her when they came to New York. She bought it at the store. He picked us up at the airport. The teacher asked you to finish your homework. I invited them to a party.
•
Possessive Pronouns - mine, yours, his, hers, its, ours, yours, theirs show that something belongs to someone. That house is mine. This is yours. I'm sorry, that's his. Those books are hers. Those students are ours.
Look over there, those seats are yours. Theirs will be green. • Demonstrative Pronouns - this, that, these, those refer to things. 'this' and 'these' refer to something that is near. 'that' and 'those' refer to things that are farther away. This is my house. That is our car over there. These are my colleagues in this room. Those are beautiful flowers in the next field.
•
Possessive adjectives - my, your, his, her, its, our, your, their are often confused with possessive pronouns. The possessive adjective modifies the noun following it in order to show possession. I'll get my books. Is that your car over there? That is his teacher, Mr Jones. I want to go to her store. Its color is red. Can we bring our children? You are welcome to invite your husbands.
IN/AT/ ON for time
IN Use 'in' months and years and periods of time:
• • •
in January in 1978 in the twenties
Use 'in' a period of time in the future:
• •
in a few weeks in a couple of days
AT Use 'at' with precise time:
• • • ON
at six o'clock at 10.30 at two p.m.
Use 'on' with days of the week:
• •
on Monday on Fridays
Use 'on' with specific calendar days:
• •
on Christmas day on October 22nd
IMPORTANT NOTES in the morning / afternoon / evening - at night We say in the morning, afternoon or evening BUT we say 'at night'
GERUND/INFINITIVE (playing/ to play) Verb + 'ing' OR Verb + Infinitive When two verbs are used together, the second verb is often in the gerund form (-ing) or the infinitive. There are no specific rules concerning which verbs take which form. Like irregular verbs, you will need to learn which form a verb takes. Common Verbs + 'ing' go enjoy quit discuss mind can't stand suggest Examples: They go jogging on Saturdays. I don't mind helping you. They can't stand driving in traffic jams. Common Verbs + Infinitive promise plan refuse want need
decide hope Examples: I promised to help him. Alice needs to start that task. He decided to quit his job.
PRESENT SIMPLE Use the present simple to talk about activities or routines which take place on a regular basis. Positive Sentences Subject + present conjugation of verb + objects I / You drive to work every day. She / He / It drives to work every day. You / We / They drive to work every day. Negative Sentences Subject + do not + base form of verb + objects I / You don't (do not) use a computer every day. She / He / It doesn't ( does not) use a computer at work. It You / We / They don't (do not) use a typewriter at work. Question Form Wh? + do + subject + base form of verb ? When do I / you arrive at work? What does he / she / it use at work? Where do we / you / they keep the paper?
MODALS (should/may/can) Modals are verbs that modify other verbs. The most common modals are:
Can Should Must Note that all subjects take the same form of the modal. Positive Subject + Modal + Base Form of Verb + Objects Examples He can play the piano. I must leave soon. Negative Subject + Modal + Not + Base Form of Verb + Objects Examples They can't visit next week. You shouldn't go to that film. Question Modal + Subject + Base Form of Verb + Objects Examples Can you help me? What should I do? Giving Advice with Should 'Should' is used when asking for or giving advice. It is also used when asking for suggestions. Examples I think you should see a doctor. What type of job should I get? Expressing Ability with Can 'Can' is used to speak abilities.
Examples He can speak Japanese. Can you play golf? Asking for Permission with May 'May' is used to ask for permission. Examples May I help you? May I visit you this afternoon? NOTE: In spoken English, 'Can I ...?' is often used instead of 'May I ...?'
FUTURE (going to/will) The future with 'Will' is used in a variety of situations discussing the future. Use the following forms with 'will'. Notice that 'will' or 'won't' is used for ALL subjects. Positive Subject + will + base form of verb + object(s) Negative Subject + will + not + base form of verb + object(s) Question (Question Word) + will + subject + base form of verb? Used for spontaneous decisions. Spontaneous decisions are decisions made AT the moment of speaking. Examples Jack's hungry. I'll make her a sandwich. That's difficult! I'll help you with the problem. Used for predictions: Examples
It will snow tomorrow. She won't win the game. Used for scheduled public events Examples The concert will begin at 8 o'clock. When will the train leave? The class won't start next week. Used for promises Examples Will you marry me? I'll help you with your homework after class. Future with 'Going to' The future with 'going to' is used to speak about future intentions or plans made before the present moment. Use the following forms with 'going to'. Positive Subject + to be + going to + base form of verb + object(s) Negative Subject + to be + not + going to + base form of verb + object(s) Question (Question Word) + to be + subject + going to + base form of verb? Examples We are going to study French next semester. Where are you going to stay in France? She isn't going to take a vacation this year. Used for planned decisions. Planned decisions are decisions made BEFORE the moment of speaking. Examples I'm going to study Languages at university next year. We're going to stay at the Hilton in New York next week.
Used for predicting an action that you see is about to happen: Examples Watch out! You're going to hit that car! Look at those clouds. It's going to rain. Used for future intentions: Examples I'm going to be a policeman when I grow up. Katherine is going to study English when she goes to University.
COUNTRY/LANGUAGE
This chart shows first the country, then language and, finally the nationality of many major countries from around the world. One syllable France French French Greece Greek Greek ends in '-ish' Britain English British Denmark Danish Danish Finland Finnish Finnish Poland Polish Polish
Spain Spanish Spanish Sweden Swedish Swedish Turkey Turkish Turkish ends in '-an' Germany German German Mexico Spanish Mexican The United States English American ends in '-ian' or '-ean' Australia English Australian Brazil Portuguese Brazilian Egypt Arabic Egyptian Italy Italian Italian Hungary Hungarian Hungarian
Korea Korean Korean Russia Russian Russian ends in '-ese' China Chinese Chinese Japan Japanese Japanese Portugal Portuguese Portuguese
MUCH /ANY/FEW/A LOT OF Countable and Uncountable Uncountable Use the singular form of the verb with uncountable nouns. Use both 'some' and any' with uncountable nouns when speaking about specific objects. Examples Do you have any butter? There is some juice in the bottle. If you are speaking in general, do not use a modifier. Examples Do you drink coca cola? He doesn't eat meat. Countable Use the plural form of the verb with countable nouns. Use both 'some' and 'any' with countable nouns when speaking about specific objects.
Examples There are some magazines on the table. Has he got any friends? If you are speaking in general, use the plural form of the noun. Examples They love books by Hemingway. She doesn't eat apples. Expressions for Use with Countable and Uncountable Nouns Use the following expressions with uncountable nouns. most much, lots of, a lot of some a little, little Examples There is lots of interest in the project. She's got some money left in the bank. There's little time to finish. Use the following expressions with countable nouns. many, lots of, a lot of several some not many, only a few, few Examples There are a lot of pictures on the wall. We have several friends in Chicago. She bought some envelopes this afternoon. There are only a few people in the restaurant.
COUNT/ NON-COUNT NOUNS What are countable nouns? Countable nouns are individual objects, people, places, etc. which can be counted. books, Italians, pictures, stations, men, etc.
A countable noun can be both singular - a friend, a house, etc. - or plural - a few apples, lots of trees, etc. Use the singular form of the verb with a singular countable noun: There is a book on the table. That student is excellent! Use the plural form of the verb with a countable noun in the plural: There are some students in the classroom. Those houses are very big, aren't they? What are uncountable nouns? Uncountable nouns are materials, concepts, information, etc. which are not individual objects and can not be counted. information, water, understanding, wood, cheese, etc. Uncountable nouns are always singular. Use the singular form of the verb with uncountable nouns: There is some water in that pitcher. That is the equipment we use for the project. Adjectives with Countable and Uncountable Nouns. Use a/an with countable nouns preceded by an adjective(s): Tom is a very intelligent young man. I have a beautiful grey cat. Do not use a/an with uncountable nouns preceded by an adjective(s): That is very useful information. There is some cold beer in the fridge. Some uncountable nouns in English are countable in other languages. This can be confusing! Here is a list of some of the most common, easy to confuse uncountable nouns. accommodation advice baggage bread equipment furniture garbage
information knowledge luggage money news pasta progress research travel work
COMPARATIVE
We use the comparative and superlative form to compare and contrast different objects in English. Use the comparative form to show the difference between two objects. Example: New York is more exciting than Seattle. Use the superlative form when speaking about three or more objects to show which object is 'the most' of something. Example: New York is the most exciting city in the USA. Here is a chart showing how to construct the comparative form in English. Notice in the example sentences that we use 'than' to compare the two objects: One Syllable Adjectives add '-er' to end of the adjective (Note: double the final consonant if preceded by a vowel) remove the 'y' from the adjective and add 'ier' Example: cheap - cheaper / hot - hotter / high - higher Example Sentences Yesterday was hotter than today. This book is cheaper than that book. Two Syllable Adjectives Ending in '-y' Example: happy - happier / funny - funnier Example Sentences I am happier than you. That joke was funnier than his joke. Two, Three or More Syllable Adjectives place 'more' before the adjective Example: interesting - more interesting / difficult - more difficult
Example Sentences London is more expensive than Madrid. This test is more difficult than the last test. IMPORTANT EXCEPTIONS There are some important exceptions to these rules. Here are two of the most important exceptions: good
• •
good - adjective better - comparative
Example Sentences This book is better than that one. I am better at tennis than my sister. bad
• •
bad - adjective worse - comparative
Example Sentences His French is worse than mine. His singing is worse than Tom's.
SUPERLATIVE
Here is a chart showing how to construct the superlative form in English: One Syllable Adjectives place 'the' before the adjective and add '-est' to end of the adjective (Note: double the final consonant if preceded by a vowel) Example: cheap - the cheapest / hot - the hottest / high - the highest Example Sentences Today is the hottest day of the summer. This book is the cheapest I can find.
Two, Three or More Syllable Adjectives place 'the most' before the adjective Example: interesting - the most interesting / difficult - the most difficult Example Sentences London is the most expensive city in England. That is the most beautiful painting here. Two Syllable Adjectives Ending in '-y' place 'the' before the adjective and remove the 'y' from the adjective and add 'iest' Example: happy - the happiest / funny - the funniest Example Sentences New York is the noisiest city in the USA. He is the most important person I know. IMPORTANT EXCEPTIONS There are some important exceptions to these rules. Here are two of the most important exceptions: good
• •
good - adjective the best - superlative
Example Sentences Peter is the best golf player in the school. This is the best school in the city. bad
• •
bad - adjective the worst - superlative
Example Sentences Jane is the worst student in the class. This is the worst day of my life.
Time Expressions and Tenses
Time expressions are used to indicate the time at / during which an action took place. Common time expressions include: Present forms: everyday, on Fridays, at the moment, now, as well as adverbs of frequency such as always, usually, sometimes (for present habits and routines). Days of the weeks followed by 's' such as Mondays, Tuesdays, etc. Examples He sometimes finishes work early. Marjorie is listening to the radio at the moment. Peter goes jogging on Saturdays. Past forms: when I was ..., last week, day, year, etc., yesterday, ago (two weeks ago, three years ago, four months ago, etc.) Examples He visited his friends last week. I didn't see you two days ago. Jane flew to Boston yesterday. Future forms: next week, year, etc., tomorrow, by (the end of the week, Thursday, next year, etc.) in X time (in two weeks time, in four months time, etc.) Examples I'm going to attend a conference next week. It won't snow tomorrow. They're going to visit New York in two weeks. Perfect forms: since, yet, already, just, for Examples Michael has worked here since 1998. Have you finished reading the paper yet? He's just gone to the bank.
Adverbs of Frequency - Rules for Use
Use adverbs of frequency to say how often you do something. Adverbs of frequency are often used with the present simple because they indicate repeated or routine activities. For example, They often go out for dinner. Adverbs of frequency include (form most often to least often):
always usually often sometimes occasionally seldom rarely never If the sentence has one verb (e.g. no auxiliary verb) put the adverb in the middle of the sentence after the subject and before the verb. Examples Tom usually goes to work by car. Janet never flies. She always goes by bus. Adverbs of frequency come after the verb 'be': Examples I am never late for work. Peter is often at school. If the sentence has more than one verb (e.g. auxiliary verb), put the adverb of frequency before the main verb. Examples I can never remember anything! They have often visited Rome. When using adverbs of frequency in the question or negative form, put the adverb of frequency before the main verb. Examples She doesn't often visit Europe. Do you usually get up early?
Imperative Form
Use the imperative form when giving instructions or orders. The imperative is also very common in written instructions. Be careful when you use the imperative, as it is often considered impolite in English. If someone asks you for instructions, use the imperative. If, on the other hand, you would like to request that someone do something use a polite question form. There is only one imperative form for both 'you' singular and plural.
Examples: Hurry up! Take the first left, go straight on and the supermarket is on the left. Positive Base Form of Verb + Objects Turn the music down, please. Insert coins into the slot. Negative Do + Not + Base Form of Verb + Objects Do not smoke in this building. Don't rush, I'm not in a hurry.
Adverb or Adjective - Which should I use? Adjectives Modify Nouns
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Adjectives are placed directly before a noun:
Examples: Tom is an excellent singer. I bought a comfortable chair. She's thinking about buying a new house.
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Adjectives are also used in simple sentences with the verb 'to be'. In this case, the adjective describes the subject of the sentence: Examples: Jack is happy. Peter was very tired. Mary'll be excited when you tell her. Adverbs
Adverbs Modify Verbs, Adjectives and Other Adverbs
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Adverbs are easily recognized because they end in '-ly' (with a few exceptions!): Examples: Adjective - careful / Adverb - carefully Adjective - quick / Adverb - quickly
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Adverbs are often used at the end of a sentence to modify the verb:
Examples: Jack drove carelessly. Tom played the match intelligently. Jason talks about his classes constantly
Present Perfect Tense The present perfect is used to say what has happened recently and has an effect on the present moment. We often use 'just', 'yet' and 'already' to express the relationship to the present moment. Examples Have you seen Mary yet? They've already had dinner. She's just been to the dentist's. The present perfect is also used to express something which has happened up to the present moment of time. Examples Have you worked here for a long time? Peter's lived here since 1987. She hasn't had much fun this week. Positive Form Subject + have + past participle + object(s)
Examples Peter's lived here since 1987. We've been very busy today. Negative Form Subject + have + not + past participle + object(s) Examples I haven't been to class very often this month. She hasn't had much fun this week. Question Form (Wh?) + have + subject + past participle? Examples Have you worked here for a long time? Where have you been? Present Perfect for Unspecified Past When speaking about an experience that has happened at an UNSPECIFIED point in time before the present moment use the present perfect. Examples I've been to New York three times. They've lived in many places. She's studied in London. NOTE: In this use of the present perfect, we are talking about things that have happened up to the present moment. Whenever you speak about something that has happened up to now without giving a precise point in time, use the present perfect. Use of 'For', 'Since' and 'How long' Use 'for' to indicate a duration or period of time. Examples He has lived here for seven years. We have been here for six weeks. Shirley has played tennis for a long time.
Use 'since' to indicate a specific point in time. Examples I've worked here since 2004. She's gone to dancing lessons since April. They've been unhappy since they left college. Use 'How long' in the question form to ask about duration. Examples How long have you played the piano? How long has he worked here? How long has she been with you?
Past Simple Tense Use the past simple to talk about activities or routines which take place at a specified time in the past. Notice that all subjects take the same conjugation of the verb. Regular verbs end in '-ed'. visit - visited enjoy - enjoyed Irregular verbs have various forms and each verb needs to be learned. see - saw think - thought The past simple is used to express a finished past action which occurs at a specific moment in the past. Examples She visited Iran last month. They didn't go to Tom's party last weekend. Where did you go on vacation last summer? The following time signifiers often indicate a specific point in time. last ago in ... (plus a year or month) yesterday when ... (plus a phrase) Examples
They had lunch at home last week. He left the company many years ago. Susan bought a new car in May. He telephoned his friend in Rome yesterday. I played golf when I was a teenager. Positive Form Subject + past form of verb + object(s) + time Examples They flew to Chicago last month. Peter completed his course three weeks ago. Negative Form Subject + did + not + base form of verb + object(s) + (time) Examples They didn't expect to see you at Christmas. She didn't understand the question. Question Form (Wh?) + did + subject + base form of verb + (object(s))+ (time)? Examples Where did you study French? When did you arrive last week?
Present Continuous Tense
Use the present continuous to speak about what is happening at the present moment in time. Positive Form Subject + to be + verb + ing + objects Examples He is watching TV. They're playing tennis at the moment. Negative Form
Subject + are not + verb + ing + objects Examples She isn't studying at the moment. We aren't working now. Question Form Wh? + do + subject + verb + ing + objects ? Examples What are you doing? Are you cooking dinner now? NOTE: We use time expressions like 'at the moment, currently, this week - month' with this form of the present continuous.
Present Simple vs. Present Continuous Present Simple
Use the present simple to talk about activities or routines which take place on a regular basis. Examples I often go jogging on Saturdays. He usually has coffee for breakfast. Present Continuous Use the present continuous to speak about what is happening at the present moment in time, around the present moment, or for a future scheduled event. Examples We're working on the Smith account this month. She's watching TV at the moment. Stative Verbs Stative verbs are verbs which express a state. Action verbs are verbs which express something a person does. Examples
I hope to see you soon. (stative verb) He is cooking dinner at the moment. (action verb) Stative verbs cannot be used in the continuous forms. Here is a list of common stative verbs: believe understand think (opinion) want hope smell taste feel sound look seem appear
Past Simple or Present Perfect Sometimes the past simple and the present perfect are confused. It is important to remember that the past simple is used to express a finished past action which occurs at a specific moment in the past. The present perfect is used to express something that happened at an unspecified moment in the past. For example, if I visited Paris in 2004, I could express this in two ways: Past Simple I visited Paris in 2004. I went to Paris a few years ago. Note that the moment in time is specific - in 2004, a few years ago. Present Perfect I've been to Paris. I've visited Paris. In this case, the moment of my visit is not specific. I am speaking about an experience that I have had in my life up to this moment in time. This is the key to understanding the difference between the past simple and the present perfect. The past simple expresses something which happened at a specific time in the past. The present perfect expresses something that I have experienced in my life without giving the exact time.
This - That - These - Those - Here - There Read the conversations below:
David: Frank: David: Frank: David:
Could you give me that book on the table over there? Do you mean this book here? Yes, that book. Here you are. Oh, could you give me those magazines on the table over there? These? Sure, here you are.
David: Frank: David: Frank: David:
Is there an apple on that table over there? Yes, there is. Here it is. Great, are there any oranges? No, there aren't. Oh, here they are, next to me on this table.
Look at the chart below:
We use "here" for something which is near to us. Example: Here is the pencil in my hand.
We use "there" for something which is far from us. Example: There is the pen next to the lamp.
We use "this" for one We use "that" for one object object (singular) which is (singular) which is there. here (near to us). Example: That is his car Example: This is a book over there. in my hand. We use "these" for more than one object (plural) which are here (near to us). Example: These are my friends next to me.
We use "those" for more than one object (plural) which are there. Example: Those are his toys over there.
We use "there" for one object (singular) which exists - or "is" (near to us). Example: There is (There's) a table next to the window.
We use "there" for more than one object (plural) which exist - or "are". Example: There are (There're) many of my friends at the party tonight.
Complete the conversation using this, that, these, those, here and there. Click on the arrow to see the answer.
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Could you bring me that chair over ? Here are pictures. Can you see building next to the bank? Is a piece of pie for me? are three boys sitting on the bench. I would like some of cookies on that shelf. Those bicycles over are expensive. dolls on the table here are very old.
Write some sentences about things in your room using this, that, these, those, here and there!
English Question Words Question words are used to ask about specific qualities, times, places, people, etc. They are different from yes / no questions (Do you live in France?). This chart provides question words, the use and example sentences. Study the question words, understand the uses and then look at the examples. Try to think of a few examples of your own. At the end, take the on the next page testing question words. Who Use: Asking about people Examples: Who do you like? Who studies Russian? What Use: Asking about things or activities Examples: What does he do at weekends? What is that? What kind of / type of Use: Asking about specific things or characteristics Examples: What type of car do you drive? What kind of person is he? What time Use: Asking for a specific time Examples: What time is it? What time does the show begin?
What ... like Use: Asking about characteristics Examples: What was the weather like? What is Mary like? When Use: Asking about general or specific times Examples: When do you like going out? When does the bus leave? Where Use: Asking about places Examples: Where do you live? Where did you go on vacation? How Use: Combined with many words to ask questions about specific characteristics, qualities, quantities, etc. For example: How much (price, quantity), How long (length), How often (frequency) Examples: How often do you go to the movies? How long was the film? How much does it cost? Which Use: Asking to specify a thing or person from a number of things or people Examples:
Which book did you buy? Which boy won the race? Provide the missing question word. When you have finished, check the answers on the answer page.
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____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
is the weather like in July? much is the chocolate? did you get up this morning? team won the World Cup in 2002? does Janet live? food do you like? does it take to get to New York from Albany? does the movie begin this evening? is your favorite actor? house does he live in? is Jack like? does she study English with? do the people in your country go for vacation? do you play tennis? sports do you play?
ANSWERS to the Question Word Quiz:
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____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
is the weather like in July? ANSWER: What much is the chocolate? ANSWER: How did you get up this morning? ANSWER: What time / When team won the World Cup in 2002? ANSWER: Which does Janet live? ANSWER: Where food do you like? ANSWER: What kind of / What type of does it take to get to New York from Albany? ANSWER: How long does the movie begin this evening? ANSWER: What time / when is your favorite actor? ANSWER: Who house does he live in? ANSWER: Which is Jack like? ANSWER: What does she study English with? ANSWER: Who do the people in your country go for vacation? ANSWER: Where do you play tennis? ANSWER: How often / When sports do you play? ANSWER: Which / How many
What's in Your Office? prepositions David: I've got a new office now… Maria: That's great! Congratulations. David: I'll need a desk and some cabinets. How many cabinets are there in your office? Maria: I think there are four cabinets in my office.
David: And do you have any furniture in your office? I mean other than the chair at your desk. Maria: Oh yes, I've got a sofa and two comfortable armchairs. David: Are there any tables in your office? Maria: Yes, I've got a table in front of the sofa. David: Is there a computer in your office? Maria: Oh yes, I keep a laptop on my desk next to the phone. David: Are there any flowers or plants in your office? Maria: Yes, there are a few plants near the window. David: Where's your sofa? Maria: The sofa is in front of the window, between the two armchairs. David: Thanks a lot for your help Janet. This gives me a good idea of how to arrange my office. Maria: My pleasure. Good luck with your decorating! Interview with a Famous Actor present simple Interviewer: Thank you for taking some time off from your busy schedule to answer a few questions about your life! Brad: It's my pleasure. Interviewer: Could you tell us about an average day in your life? Brad: Sure, I get up early - at 7 in the morning. Then I have breakfast. After breakfast, I go to the gym. Interviewer: Are you studying anything now? Brad: Yes, I'm learning a new film called "The Man About Town". Interviewer: What do you do in the afternoon? Brad: First I have lunch, then I go to the studio and shoot some scenes. Interviewer: Which scene are you acting today? Brad: I'm acting a scene about an angry lover. Interviewer: That's very interesting. What do you do in the evening? Brad: In the evening, I go home and have dinner and study my scripts. Interviewer: Do you go out at night? Brad: Not always, I like going out at weekends. The City and the Country comparative David: How do you like living in the big city? Maria: There are many things that are better than living in the country!
David: Can you give me some examples? Maria: Well, it certainly is more interesting than the country. There is so much more to do and see! David: Yes, but the city is more dangerous than the country. Maria: That's true. People in the city aren't as open and friendly as those in the countryside. David: I'm sure that the country is more relaxed, too! Maria: Yes, the city is busier than the country. However, the country is much slower than the city. David: I think that's a good thing! Maria: Oh, I don't. The country is so slow and boring! It's much more boring than the city. David: How about the cost of living? Is the country cheaper than the city? Maria: Oh, yes. The city is more expensive than the country. David: Life in the country is also much healthier than in the city. Maria: Yes, it's cleaner and less dangerous in the country. But, the city is so much more exciting. It's faster, crazier and more fun than the country. David: I think YOU are crazy for moving to the city. Maria: Well, I'm young now. Maybe when I'm married and have children I'll move back to the country. What Were You Doing? Past simple Betsy: I telephoned you yesterday afternoon but you didn't answer? Where were you? Brian: I was in another room when you called. I didn't hear the phone ringing until it was too late. Betsy: What were you working on? Brian: I was photocopying a report that I needed to send to a client. What were you doing when you telephoned? Betsy: I was looking for Tom and couldn't find him. Do you know where he was? Brian: Tom was driving to a meeting. Betsy: Oh, I see. What did you do yesterday? Brian: I met the representatives from Driver's in the morning. In the afternoon, I worked on the report and was just finishing when you telephoned. What did you do? Betsy: Well, at 9 I had a meeting with Ms Anderson. After that, I did some research. Brian: Sounds like a boring day! Betsy: Yes, I don't really like doing research. But it needs to be done. Brian: I agree with you on that, no research - no business! Betsy: Tell me about the report. What do you think of it? Brian: I think the report is a good. Tom believes it's good, too.
Betsy: I know that every report you write is excellent. Brian: Thank you Betsy, you are always a good friend!
The Oregon Weather Forecast future Weather Forecaster: Good afternoon and welcome to the weather forecast. Let's take a look at the weather outside now. What's it like? Well, it's currently raining and cloudy in southern Oregon while northern Oregon is cold and clear. The sun is shining, but it's rather cold up here in the North! The temperature is currently 45 degrees in the southern Oregon and only 30 degrees in the North. Shall we see what the weather will be like tomorrow? Well, it will be rainy in the morning in southern Oregon and windy in northern Oregon. In the afternoon, The South will see cloudy weather with some rain later in the day. Northern Oregon will also see rain turning to snow and quite windy, with winds coming from the North-East. That's the weather forecast for this afternoon. Have a good day! On a Business Trip - A Presentation
present perfect
Betsy: Hi Brian, this is Betsy. How are you doing? Brian: I've just returned from the Head Office. The weather is great! Boston is a great city! Betsy: Have you met Frank yet? Brian: No, I haven't seen him yet. We have a meeting at 10 o'clock tomorrow morning. We are going to meet then. Betsy: Have you made your presentation yet? Brian: Yes, I made the presentation yesterday afternoon. I was very nervous, but everything went well. Betsy: Has management given you any feedback yet? Brian: Yes, I've already met with the sales director. We met immediately after the meeting and he was impressed with our work. Betsy: That's great Brian. Congratulations! Have you visited any museums yet? Brian: No, I'm afraid I haven't had any time yet. I hope to take a tour around town tomorrow. Betsy: Well, I'm happy to hear that everything is going well. I'll talk to you soon. Brian: Thanks for calling Betsy. Bye. Betsy: Bye. A Business Traveller like Interviewer: Good morning Sir. I'd like to ask you a few questions if I may. Jack: Well, I'm waiting to catch my flight so I guess I can answer a few questions.
Interviewer: Thank you Sir. First of all, how often do you travel? Jack: I travel about twice a month. Interviewer: Where are you flying to on this trip? Jack: I'm flying to Austin, Texas. Interviewer: … and where did you fly on your last trip? Jack: I flew to Portland, Oregon. I've already been there three times! Interviewer: Really! Do you enjoy travelling for business? Jack: Yes, although I prefer staying in the office. Interviewer: What do you like most about travelling? Jack: I like visiting new cities and trying out new food. Interviewer: Is there anywhere you would like to visit that you haven't visited yet? Jack: Yes, I'd like to go to Hawaii! I love going to the beach! Interviewer: Thank you very much for your time today. Jack: You're welcome. My pleasure. An Interview at the Shopping Mall superlative Interviewer: Good evening, I hope you don't mind answering a few questions. Alice: How long will it take? Interviewer: Just a few questions. Alice: I guess I can manage to answer a few questions. Go ahead. Interviewer: I'd like to ask your opinion about consumer electronics. As far as consumer electronics is concerned, which is the most reliable brand? Alice: I'd say that Samsung is the most reliable brand. Interviewer: Which brand is the most expensive? Alice: Well, Samsung is also the most expensive brand. I guess that's why it's the best. Interviewer: Which brand do you think is the worst? Alice: I think LG is the worst. I really can't remember using any of their products that I liked. Interviewer: And which brand is the most popular with young people? Alice: That's a difficult one to answer for me. I think that Sony is probably the most popular with young people. Interviewer: One last question, Have you tried using any HP products? Alice: No, I haven't. Are they good? Interviewer: I enjoy using them. But I didn't stop you to tell you what I think. Thank you for your time. Alice: Not at all.
A New Office this/that/some/any (In an office) Jennifer: (speaking to Bob who is outside the office) Hi Bob, come in. This is my new office! Bob: Wow, it's great. There's so much furniture. A sofa, armchair ... Jennifer: How about my desk. Isn't it beautiful? Bob: Yes, look at that. Is that a new computer? Jennifer: Yes, it is. The latest model! Bob: ... but there aren't any windows in here. Jennifer: No, no, there are some windows. They're over there. Bob: Is that New Times magazine on your desk? Jennifer: Yes, it is. There are some more copies in the cupboard. Bob: It's a great magazine. I love it. Jennifer: Yes, lots of good information. Would you like a cup of coffee? Bob: Sure, is there a coffee maker here, too? Jennifer: Yes, there is. There's everything in THIS office. Bob: You're lucky! Jennifer: Yes, I am. You're welcome anytime, now let's make that coffee...
Today's Special ordering food in a restaurant (in a restaurant) Waiter: Good afternoon, how can I help you today? Jennifer: I'd like a table for one, please. Waiter: Right this way. (walks to table) Here you are. Jennifer: Thank you. Can I have a menu? Waiter: (hands a menu) Here you are. My name's Alan and I'm your waiter today. Would you like to hear today's specials? Jennifer: Certainly. Waiter: Well, we have a wonderful mushroom soup to start off with. Today's main course is fish and chips. Jennifer: Fish and chips? Is the fish fresh?
Waiter: Certainly, madam. Fresh off the docks this morning. Jennifer: Alright, I'd like the fish and chips. Waiter: Would you like to have a starter? Jennifer: hmmm, I'm not sure. Waiter: Our salads are excellent, madam. Jennifer: I'd like a green salad. Waiter: Very good. Would you like something to drink? Jennifer: Oh, I'd like some mineral water, please. Waiter: OK. So that's a green salad, fish and chips and mineral water. Jennifer: Yes, that's right. Waiter: Thank you and enjoy your lunch. Jennifer: Thank you. Planning a Party will/going to (two neighbors talking) Martha:...What horrible weather today. I'd love to go out, but I think it will just continue raining. Jane:Oh, I don't know. Perhaps the sun will come out later this afternoon. Martha:I hope you're right. Listen, I'm going to have a party this Saturday. Would you like to come? Jane:Oh, I'd love to come. Thank you for inviting me. Who's going to come to the party? Martha:Well, a number of people haven't told me yet. But, Peter and Mark are going to help out with the cooking! Jane:Hey, I'll help, too! Martha:Would you? That would be great! Jane:I'll make lasagna! Martha:That sounds delicious! I know my Italian cousins are going to be there. I'm sure they'll love it. Jane:Italians? Maybe I'll bake a cake... Martha:No, no. They're not like that. They'll love it. Jane:Well, if you say so... Is there going be a theme for the party? Martha:No, I don't think so. Just a chance to get together and have fun. Jane:I'm sure it'll be lots of fun. Martha:But I'm going to hire a clown! Jane:A clown! You're kidding me.
Martha:No, no. As I child, I always wanted a clown. Now, I'm going to have my clown at my own party. Jane:I'm sure everyone will have a good laugh. Martha:That's the plan! Neighbors present perfect /past simple Tom: Hi Henry, it's been a long time since we saw each other last. What have you been up to? Henry: Hi Tom! It's great to see you again. I've been away on business. Tom: Really, where did you go? Henry: Well, first I flew to New York for two meetings. After that, I flew to Atlanta, where I had to make a presentation at a company conference. Tom: It sounds like you've been busy. Henry: Yes, I've been very busy. It's good to be home again. What have you been doing lately? Tom: Oh, nothing much. I've been working in the garden these past few days. Alice has been away for the past two weeks visiting her relatives in Chicago. Henry: I didn't know she has family in Chicago. Tom: Yes, that's right. We met at university in California. She was born in Chicago and lived there until she went to college. Henry: How long have you lived here in Colorado? Tom: We've lived here for over 10 years. We moved here in 1998 because I had a new job as a sales representative. Henry: Have you lived in the same house since you arrived? Tom: No, first we lived in a condo in downtown Denver. We moved here four years ago. We've lived on the street for four years and they've been the happiest years of our lives. Henry: Yes, my wife Jane and I love this neighborhood. Tom: And how long have you lived in your house? Henry: We've only lived here for two years. Tom: That's strange, it seems like you have lived here longer than that. Henry: No, we moved here in 2006. Tom: How time flies! Henry: I have to agree with you on that. It seems like yesterday that I graduated from college. I can't believe I've been working for more than 10 years! Tom: I've been working for more than 30 years! I'm going to retire soon. Henry: Really? You don't look a day over 40! Tom: Thank you. You're a great neighbor! Henry: No, really. Well, I have to get going. Work is waiting for me. Have a good day.
Tom: You, too. Glad to have you back in the neighbor! Key Vocabulary What have you been up to? I've been away on business Company conference What have you been doing lately? relatives to move Condo neighborhood That's strange How time flies To graduate from college or university It seems like yesterday To retire I have to get going Glad to have you back
Reading Comprehension for Beginners - My Office Like most offices, my office is a place where I can concentrate on my work and feel comfortable at the same time. Of course, I have all the necessary equipment on my desk. I have the telephone next to the fax machine on the right side of my desk. My computer is in the center of my desk with the monitor directly in front of me. I have a comfortable office chair to sit on and some pictures of my family between the computer and the telephone. In order to help me read, I also have a lamp near my computer which I use in the evening if I work late. There is plenty of paper in one of the cabinet drawers. There are also staples and a stapler, paper clips, highlighters, pens and erasers in the other drawer. In the room, there is a comfortable armchair and a sofa to sit on. I also have a low table in front of the sofa on which there are some industry magazines. Multiple-Choice Comprehension Check Questions Choose the correct answer based on the reading. Click on the arrow to check your answer. 1. What do I need to do in my office? ANSWER: A) relax B) concentrate C) study D) read magazines 2. 2. Which piece of equipment do I NOT have on my desk? ANSWER: A) fax B) computer C) lamp D) photocopier 3. 3. Where are the pictures of my family located? ANSWER: A) on the wall B) next to the lamp C) between the computer and the telephone D) near the fax 4. 4. I use the lamp to read: ANSWER: D
A) all day B) never C) in the morning D) in the evening 5. 5. Where do I keep the paperclips? ANSWER: A) on the desk B) next to the lamp C) in a cabinet drawer D) next to the telephone 6. 6. What do I keep on the table in front of the sofa? ANSWER: A) company reports B) fashion magazines C) books D) industry magazines True Or False Decide if the statements are 'true' or 'false' based on the reading. Click on the arrow to check your answer. 1. 2. 3. 4.
I work late every night. ANSWER: I use highlighters to help me remember important information. ANSWER: I keep reading materials that are not related to my job in the office. ANSWER: It is important to me to feel comfortable at work. ANSWER:
Useful Vocabulary Visit this page to help you learn these words from the text: armchair cabinet desk drawer equipment furniture highlighter laptop paperclip stapler
Reading Comprehension for Beginners - My Friend Peter My friend's name is Peter. Peter is from Amsterdam, in Holland. He is Dutch. He is married and has two children. His wife, Jane, is American. She is from Boston in The United States. Her family is still in Boston, but she now works and lives with Peter in Milan. They speak English, Dutch, German and Italian! Their children are pupils at a local primary school. The children go to school with other children from all over the world. Flora, their daughter, has friends from France, Switzerland, Austria and Sweden. Hans, their son, goes to school with students from South Africa, Portugal, Spain and Canada. Of course, there are many children from Italy. Imagine, French, Swiss, Austrian, Swedish, South African, American, Italian, Spanish and Canadian children all learning together in Italy! MULTIPLE-CHOICE COMPREHENSION CHECK QUESTIONS 1. Where is Peter from?
a. Germany b. Holland c. Spain d. Canada ANSWER 2. Where is his wife from? a. New York b. Switzerland c. Boston d. Italy ANSWER 3. Where are they now? a. Madrid b. Boston c. Milan d. Sweden ANSWER 4. Where is her family? a. American b. England c. Holland d. Italy ANSWER 5. What are the children's names? a. Greta and Peter b. Anna and Frank c. Susan and John d. Flora and Hans ANSWER 6. The school is: a. international b. big c. small d. difficult ANSWER TRUE OR FALSE 1. Jane is Canadian. ANSWER 2. Peter is Dutch. ANSWER 3. There are many children from different countries at the school.
ANSWER 4. There are children from Australia at the school. ANSWER
Reading Comprehension for Beginners - A Secretary's Desk Secretaries usually have an older computer and a telephone on their desk. The usually have an older computer because the managers are often the first to receive the latest technological equipment. Secretaries' desks are often tidy as they are usually tidier than the bosses. You will also find an agenda of some sort because secretaries need to make appointments for their bosses. Secretaries' desks often have pictures of their children and families that they look at from time to time during the day. In the past, secretaries were usually women. Today, however, more and more men are becoming secretaries as more and more women become managers and the workplace becomes more equal. True Or False Decide if the statements are 'true' or 'false' based on the reading. Click on the arrow to check your answer. 1. Secretaries are usually tidier than their bosses. ANSWER:
2.
Secretaries often have pictures of their families on their desks.
ANSWER: 3. Secretaries usually have a new computer. ANSWER: 4. Secretaries make appointments for their bosses. ANSWER: 5. Secretaries are always women.
A Typical Manager's Desk Managers often have desks that are surprisingly empty! These empty desks can show that the manager often travels and is out of the office most of the time. An empty desk can also demonstrate how powerful the manager is by its representative status. Sometimes, in the USA, you can see footmarks on the desk because some managers like to put their feet up on
the desk when they are talking on the telephone! In the States, managers put their feet up on the desk to show that they are in control in their office. Managers usually have a laptop computer on their desk. In fact, this laptop computer is their true desk. These days, most managers do almost all their work on their laptops. Another thing you might find is a cell phone - another sign of the mobility most managers demand. 1. Managers often have _________ computers. a. laptop b. beautiful c. fax ANSWER:
2.
Some managers in the USA like to:
a. talk a lot b. put their feet up on their desk c. work from home ANSWER: 3. Many managers have ________ phones. a. portable b. cell c. walkable ANSWER: 4. Most managers need to: a. stay in the office b. travel a lot c. type their own letters ANSWER: 5. A clean, empty desk represents: a. laziness b. power c. indecision
Reading Comprehension for Beginners - A Typical Shop Worker's Desk Shop workers probably have the untidiest desks of all. The desks of shop workers are used for a number of purposes. They often have a computer and telephone to take care of paper work, but they also use their desk as a place to lay their various tools as they work at their different tasks. In many machine shops, you will also be surprised at how dirty a shop worker's desk is! Shop workers have to do a variety of physical tasks that often involve greasy equipment. Of course, the grease from the tools and the equipment dirty the desk as the shop worker sits down to do a report or make a telephone call. Shop workers usually don't clean their desk too often as they know that the desks will just get dirty the next time they sit down to have a cup of coffee.
Here is the story with ten words missing. Choose one these ten words to fit into the correct gap. Click on the arrow to check your answer. physical telephone workers untidiest work dirty tools machine equipment sit down Shop workers probably have the desks of all. The desks of shop workers are used for a number of purposes. They often have a computer and a to take care of paper , but they also use their desk as a place to lay their various as they work at their different tasks. In many shops, you will also be surprised at how a shop worker's desk is! Shop workers have to do a variety of tasks that often involve greasy equipment. Of course, the grease from the tools and the dirty the desk as the shop worker sits down to do a report or make a telephone call. Shop usually don't clean their desk too often as they know that the desks will just get dirty the next time they to have a cup of coffee.
