My English Place

Listen then Read:

Context: Sarah is attending a social event and strikes up a conversation with Alex, a new acquaintance.

Sarah: Hi there! I’m Sarah. Nice to meet you.

Alex: Hi Sarah, I’m Alex. Likewise!

Sarah: So, are you from around here?

Alex: No, actually, I just moved here recently for work. How about you?

Sarah: Oh, I’ve lived here for a few years now. What brings you to this event?

Alex: I heard it’s a great way to meet new people. And you?

Sarah: Same here! I love connecting with new folks. Have you been to many events like this before?

Alex: This is my first one in this city. I used to attend similar gatherings back in my hometown.

Sarah: Cool! So, what do you do for work?

Alex: I work in marketing. How about you?

Sarah: I’m a graphic designer. Marketing and design – we could probably collaborate on something in the future!

Alex: That sounds awesome. I’m always open to new collaborations. By the way, do you have any favorite spots in the city?

Sarah: Oh, there’s this great coffee shop downtown that I love. Have you been there?

Alex: Not yet. Mind if I join you for coffee there sometime?

Sarah: Absolutely! I’d love that. Let’s exchange numbers, and we can plan something.

Alex: Great idea! Here’s my number. Looking forward to it.

Sarah: Perfect. I’ll text you, and we can set it up. It was really nice meeting you, Alex.

Alex: Likewise, Sarah. See you soon!

Key Vocabulary:

1. Strikes up a conversation: Initiates a conversation.
2. Acquaintance: A person known to one, but not a close friend.
3. Likewise: Used to express that the same sentiment applies to the other person.
4. Around here: In this local area.
5. Recently: Not long ago.
6. Event: A social gathering or occasion.
7. Connecting with: Establishing a connection or forming relationships with.
8. Collaborate: Work together on a project or activity.
9. Graphic designer: A person who designs visual content.
10. Exchange numbers: Share contact information.

Common Expressions:

1. Nice to meet you: A polite expression used when meeting someone for the first time.
2. What brings you to…: An informal way to ask why someone is attending a particular event or place.
3. Cool!: An informal expression to show interest or enthusiasm.
4. Mind if I…: A polite way to ask for permission or suggest doing something.
5. Looking forward to it: Expressing anticipation or excitement about a future event.
6. See you soon: A friendly way to say goodbye with the expectation of meeting again.

Conversation Questions:

1. How do you say “hello” and introduce yourself to someone new?
2. What kind of questions can you ask to start a conversation with a person you’ve just met?
3. How can you make friends with someone from a different culture?
4. What qualities do you think are important in a good friend?
5. How do you overcome shyness when meeting new people?
6. Do you have any hobbies or interests that you like to share when making new friends?
7. What do you think about making friends online? Are there any precautions you take?
8. What do you believe is important for maintaining a friendship over time?

Listen then Read:

Context: Sarah and Alex have become friends after meeting at a social event. Sarah now wants to make plans to hang out with Alex.

Sarah: Hi Alex! How’s it going?

Alex: Hey Sarah! All good, thanks. What’s up?

Sarah: I was thinking, would you be interested in grabbing lunch this weekend?

Alex: That sounds like a fantastic idea! Where were you thinking?

Sarah: There’s this new café downtown that I’ve been wanting to try. How does Saturday around 1 PM sound?

Alex: Saturday works for me, and 1 PM sounds perfect. Let’s do it!

Sarah: Great! I’ll text you the details and the address. Anything specific you’re in the mood for?

Alex: I’m pretty open to anything. Surprise me!

Sarah: Will do! Oh, and do you have any dietary restrictions I should know about?

Alex: No, I’m good with anything. I’m not too picky.

Sarah: Awesome! It’s a plan then. Looking forward to it.

Alex: Likewise, Sarah. Can’t wait!

Key Vocabulary:

1. Grabbing lunch: Informal expression for going out to eat together.
2. Weekend: Referring to Saturday or Sunday, typically a day off from work.
3. Downtown: The central part of a city.
4. Details: Specific information about a plan or event.
5. Address: The location where they will meet.
6. Mood for: Desire or inclination towards a particular type of food or activity.
7. Open to: Willing to consider or try something.
8. Dietary restrictions: Specific dietary needs or limitations.
9. Picky: Selective or difficult to please.
10. It’s a plan: Confirming an agreement or arrangement.

Common Expressions:

1. What’s up?: Informal way of asking how someone is doing.
2. Sounds like a fantastic idea!: Expressing enthusiasm and agreement.
3. I’ll text you the details: Indicating that the specific information will be sent via text message.
4. Surprise me!: Letting the other person decide or choose freely.
5. It’s a plan then: Confirming that the arrangement is agreed upon.
6. Looking forward to it: Expressing anticipation or excitement about a future event.
7. Can’t wait!: Expressing eagerness or excitement.

Conversation Questions:

1. How do you usually decide on plans with your friends?
2. What phrases or expressions do you use to suggest making plans with someone?
3. Can you share a time when you had to change your plans? How did you handle it?
4. What activities do you enjoy doing with friends when making plans?
5. How do you politely decline an invitation or suggest an alternative plan?
6. Do you prefer making plans in advance or spontaneously? Why?
7. How do you feel about making plans through text messages or social media?
8. Can you describe a memorable experience when plans didn’t go as expected? How did you adapt?

Listen then Read:

Context: Sarah is planning a birthday party and wants to invite Alex, her new friend.

Sarah: Hey Alex! How’s it going?

Alex: Hi Sarah! I’m good, thanks. What’s up?

Sarah: I’m planning a small birthday party this Saturday, and I’d love for you to come!

Alex: Oh, that sounds like fun! I’d love to come. Where’s it going to be?

Sarah: It’ll be at my place. Just a few friends, some music, and good vibes.

Alex: Count me in! What time should I be there?

Sarah: The party starts at 7 PM. Feel free to come a bit earlier if you’d like.

Alex: Perfect! Should I bring anything?

Sarah: Just yourself! I’ve got everything covered. But if you want, a small snack or drink would be great.

Alex: Sure thing. Looking forward to celebrating with you!

Sarah: Likewise, Alex! It’s going to be a blast. I’ll send you the address and any updates.

Alex: Sounds good. Thanks for the invite, Sarah. Can’t wait!

Key Vocabulary:

1. Planning: Organizing or arranging an event.
2. Birthday party: A celebration in honor of someone’s birthday.
3. Small: Not large in size or scale.
4. Good vibes: Positive and enjoyable atmosphere.
5. Count me in: Expressing agreement and willingness to participate.
6. Starts at: The designated beginning time for an event.
7. Feel free to: An invitation or suggestion to do something without hesitation.
8. A bit earlier: Slightly before the specified time.
9. Covered: Taken care of or provided for.
10. Blast: An exciting and enjoyable experience.

Common Expressions:

1. What’s up?: Informal way of asking how someone is doing.
2. That sounds like fun!: Expressing enthusiasm and interest.
3. Count me in!: Expressing eagerness to participate.
4. Perfect!: Indicating that something is exactly right or suitable.
5. Sure thing: Agreeing and confirming that it’s acceptable.
6. Looking forward to: Anticipating with excitement.
7. Can’t wait!: Expressing eagerness or excitement.

Conversation Questions:

1. How do you usually invite a friend to a party or social event?
2. What information do you include when giving details about a party invitation?
3. Can you share a memorable party you attended or hosted with friends?
4. How do you respond when you receive a party invitation?
5. Are there any cultural differences in how people invite friends to parties?
6. What kind of parties do you enjoy attending with your friends?
7. How do you handle it if a friend can’t attend your party?
8. What are some polite ways to decline a party invitation if you can’t attend?

Listen then Read:

Context: Sarah and Alex are catching up and discussing their hobbies.

Sarah: Hi Alex! It’s been a while. What have you been up to lately?

Alex: Hey Sarah! Not much, just working and trying to squeeze in some time for my hobbies. How about you?

Sarah: I hear you. Work can be demanding. Lately, I’ve been getting into photography. It’s been so much fun capturing moments.

Alex: That’s awesome! What kind of photography are you into?

Sarah: Mostly landscapes and street photography. I love the challenge of finding beauty in everyday scenes. It’s become a great stress reliever for me.

Alex: That sounds really interesting. I’ve always wanted to get into a creative hobby. I’m just not sure where to start.

Sarah: You should totally give it a shot! It doesn’t have to be photography; there are so many options. What are you interested in?

Alex: Well, I used to play the guitar, but I haven’t picked it up in years. I miss it, though.

Sarah: Why not start playing again? It’s a great way to relax. We could even jam together sometime!

Alex: That’s a great idea! It has been too long. What about you? Besides photography, any other hobbies?

Sarah: I’ve also been trying my hand at cooking. I find it therapeutic, and I get to enjoy some delicious meals afterward.

Alex: Nice! Any favorite dishes you’ve mastered?

Sarah: I make a mean spaghetti carbonara, if I may say so myself. How about you? Any favorite dishes or hobbies you used to enjoy?

Alex: I used to love hiking. Maybe I should get back into that too. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.

Sarah: Absolutely! Let me know if you ever want to go on a hike together. It sounds like we both have some rediscovering to do with our hobbies.

Alex: Definitely, Sarah. Let’s make plans soon.

Key Vocabulary:

1. Hobbies: Activities pursued for pleasure and relaxation.
2. Squeeze in: To find time for something in a busy schedule.
3. Getting into: Developing an interest or involvement in something.
4. Landscape photography: Capturing images of outdoor scenes and nature.
5. Street photography: Taking pictures of people and everyday life in public spaces.
6. Stress reliever: Something that helps reduce stress and tension.
7. Creative hobby: An activity that involves artistic expression.
8. Give it a shot: Try or attempt something.
9. Jam together: Play music together in an informal setting.
10. Therapeutic: Providing a sense of relaxation and emotional well-being.

Common Expressions:

1. It’s been a while: Acknowledging the passage of time since the last meeting.
2. I hear you: Expressing understanding or agreement.
3. You should totally give it a shot!: Encouraging someone to try something.
4. Why not: Suggesting the possibility of doing something.
5. If I may say so myself: Modestly expressing pride in one’s abilities.
6. It has been too long: Acknowledging the passage of time since engaging in a particular activity.
7. Let me know: Inviting the other person to inform or update in the future.

Conversation Questions:

1. Do you have any hobbies? If so, what are they, and how did you get interested in them? If not, is there a hobby you would like to try?
2. How do you usually spend your free time? Are there specific activities you enjoy doing regularly?
3. Can you share a memorable experience or achievement related to one of your hobbies? What made it special for you?
4. In your culture, are there traditional hobbies that many people enjoy? What are they, and have you ever tried any of them?
5. Do you think it’s important for people to have hobbies? Why or why not?
6. If you could learn any new hobby or skill, what would it be, and why does it interest you?
7. How do you balance your hobbies with other responsibilities, such as work or school? Do you find it challenging to make time for your interests?
8. Have you ever made friends through a shared hobby or interest? How did that connection develop?

Listen then Read:

Context: Sarah and Alex are at a restaurant, looking at the menu and placing their orders.

Waiter: Good evening! Welcome to [Restaurant Name]. My name is Mark, and I’ll be your server tonight. Can I start you off with something to drink?

Sarah: Hi Mark! I’ll have a glass of the house white wine, please.

Alex: And I’ll go with a sparkling water, please.

Waiter: Great choices. I’ll be back with your drinks in just a moment. Take your time to look at the menu.

After a few minutes…

Waiter: Are you ready to order, or do you need a few more minutes?

Sarah: We’re ready, thank you. I’ll have the steak with asparagus and a side salad, please.

Alex: I’ll go for the penne pasta with tomato basil sauce and grilled chicken.

Waiter: Excellent choices! How would you like your steak cooked?

Sarah: Medium, please.

Waiter: Got it. And for the pasta, any specific preferences?

Alex: Can I have it with whole wheat penne, if that’s possible?

Waiter: Of course. Anything else for now?

Sarah: Could we also get an order of garlic bread to share as a starter?

Waiter: Certainly. I’ll get that in for you. Your drinks will be right out, and I’ll place your orders. Enjoy your meal!

Key Vocabulary:

1. Server: The restaurant staff member taking orders and serving food.
2. House wine: The standard wine offered by the restaurant.
3. Sparkling water: Carbonated water.
4. Grilled salmon: Salmon cooked on a grill.
5. Asparagus: A green vegetable.
6. Side salad: A small salad served on the side of the main dish.
7. Penne pasta: A type of pasta in the shape of tubes.
8. Tomato basil sauce: A sauce made from tomatoes and basil.
9. Whole wheat: Bread or pasta made from whole wheat flour.
10. Garlic bread: Bread topped with garlic butter.

Common Expressions:

1. I’ll have…: A polite way to state your order.
2. Excellent choices!: Expressing approval of the selected dishes.
3. How would you like…: Asking for preferences regarding how the food should be prepared.
4. Of course: Indicating agreement or willingness.
5. Anything else for now?: Checking if there are additional items to order.
6. I’ll get that in for you: Informing that the order will be placed.

Conversation Questions:

1. How do you usually ask for a table at a restaurant?
2. What phrases or expressions do you use to order your food in a restaurant?
3. Can you share a memorable experience of trying a new dish at a restaurant?
4. How do you communicate any dietary restrictions or preferences when ordering?
5. Are there any cultural differences in how people order food at restaurants?
6. What kind of questions might you ask the waiter or waitress about the menu?
7. How do you handle it if there’s a problem with your order in a restaurant?
8. What are some polite ways to express satisfaction with your meal at the end of the dining experience?

Listen then Read:

Context: Sarah and Alex are having a casual conversation about their taste in music.

Sarah: Hey Alex! I was wondering, what kind of music are you into?

Alex: Hi Sarah! I’m into a bit of everything, but lately, I’ve been really into indie and alternative rock. How about you?

Sarah: Nice! I have a diverse taste too. I love indie pop and electronic music. Do you have a favorite band or artist?

Alex: Yeah, I’m a big fan of Arctic Monkeys. Their sound is just so unique. How about you?

Sarah: Oh, I love Arctic Monkeys too! But lately, I’ve been listening to a lot of Billie Eilish. Her music has this haunting vibe that I find intriguing.

Alex: Cool choice! I appreciate her style too. Have you ever been to any live concerts?

Sarah: Yeah, I try to catch concerts whenever I can. I saw the Arctic Monkeys live last year, and it was amazing. How about you?

Alex: Unfortunately, I haven’t been to many concerts. It’s on my bucket list though. Any recommendations for must-see live performances?

Sarah: Definitely try to catch a Coldplay concert if you can. Their shows are like a magical experience. The lights, the music – it’s incredible.

Alex: That sounds awesome. I’ll keep that in mind. Thanks for the recommendation, Sarah.

Sarah: Anytime! Maybe we should plan to go to a concert together sometime. It could be a lot of fun.

Alex: I’m totally up for that! Let’s do it.

Key Vocabulary:

1. Indie: Independent, often used to describe a genre of music.
2. Alternative rock: A genre of rock music that includes a diverse range of styles.
3. Diverse taste: Enjoying a variety of different types of music.
4. Indie pop: A subgenre of indie music with a pop influence.
5. Electronic music: Music created using electronic devices and technology.
6. Favorite band or artist: A musician or group that one particularly likes.
7. Haunting vibe: A mysterious or eerie feeling conveyed by the music.
8. Bucket list: A list of things one wants to do or experience in their lifetime.
9. Live concerts: Performances by musicians in front of an audience.
10. Must-see: Something highly recommended or essential to experience.

Common Expressions:

1. I was wondering: A polite way to introduce a question.
2. How about you?: Inviting the other person to share their thoughts or experiences.
3. Cool choice!: Expressing approval or admiration.
4. Bucket list though: Acknowledging something on one’s list of desired experiences.
5. Keep that in mind: Remembering or considering for the future.
6. Anytime!: A casual way of saying you’re always available or willing.
7. Totally up for that!: Expressing enthusiasm and willingness.

Conversation Questions:

1. How do you express your interest in music when talking to someone?
2. What types of music do you enjoy listening to? Why?
3. Can you share a favorite song or artist and explain why you like them?
4. How do you ask someone about their music preferences?
5. Are there any cultural differences in how people appreciate or discuss music?
6. What kind of music do you think is suitable for different moods or occasions?
7. How do you discover new music or artists?
8. Can you describe a memorable experience related to music, such as attending a concert or discovering a new genre?

Listen then Read:

Context: Sarah and Alex are having a conversation about their pets.

Sarah: Hey Alex! I was looking at some pictures of cute dogs online. Do you have any pets?

Alex: Hi Sarah! Yeah, I have a cat named Pinky. She’s a playful little tabby. How about you?

Sarah: Aw, Pinky sounds adorable! I have a dog named Max. He’s a golden retriever, always full of energy.

Alex: Golden retrievers are so friendly! How long have you had Max?

Sarah: I’ve had him for about three years now. He’s been a wonderful companion. How about Pinky? How long has she been part of the family?

Alex: Pinky has been with me for two years. I adopted her from a shelter, and she’s brought so much joy into my life.

Sarah: That’s wonderful. Adopting pets is such a rewarding experience. What’s Pinky like?

Alex: She’s quite the character. Always finding the coziest spots to nap and chasing after anything that moves. Cats, right?

Sarah: Absolutely! Max is the same way with his toys. Speaking of which, do you have any funny or memorable stories about Pinky?

Alex: Oh, plenty! One time, she got into a box of feathers, and it looked like a fluffy explosion in my living room. I couldn’t help but laugh.

Sarah: That sounds adorable! Max once stole a slice of pizza right off the table when I wasn’t looking. I couldn’t be mad because he looked so proud of himself.

Alex: Pets really know how to make us smile. They’re like furry family members.

Sarah: Couldn’t agree more. They bring so much love and joy into our lives.

Key Vocabulary:

1. Pets: Domestic animals kept for companionship.
2. Tabby: A type of cat coat pattern with distinctive stripes, dots, or swirls.
3. Golden retriever: A breed of dog known for its friendly and gentle nature.
4. Full of energy: Energetic and lively.
5. Companion: A person or animal with whom one spends time or keeps company.
6. Adorable: Charming and cute.
7. Shelter: A facility that houses and cares for animals awaiting adoption.
8. Character: Distinctive qualities or traits.
9. Nap: A short sleep, often during the day.
10. Furry family members: Playful reference to pets as part of the family.

Common Expressions:

1. Do you have any…?: Asking about possession or experience.
2. Aw, sounds adorable!: Expressing affection and admiration.
3. How long have you had…?: Inquiring about the duration of ownership.
4. Bringing joy into our lives: Enhancing happiness and well-being.
5. Couldn’t be mad: Unable to feel anger due to the situation’s cuteness.
6. Know how to make us smile: Have the ability to bring happiness.

Conversation Questions:

1. Do you have any pets? If so, what kind of pet do you have, and what is its name? If not, would you like to have a pet in the future?
2. What do you think are the benefits of having a pet? How do they contribute to a person’s life?
3. Have you ever had an unusual or exotic pet? If not, would you consider having one?
4. How do you take care of your pet’s health and well-being? Do you take them to the vet regularly, or do you have any special routines?
5. What is your favorite memory or experience with your pet? Can you share a funny or heartwarming story?
6. Are there any specific rules or cultural practices related to pets in your country or community?
7. How do you feel about people who have different types of pets, such as reptiles or rodents? Do you think all animals can make good pets?
8. If you could have any animal as a pet, regardless of practicality or feasibility, what would it be and why?