Mexico Fun Facts

Study Notes

Mexico is located in North America and is the 14th largest country in the world.
The people in Mexico speak Spanish and the country is known for being located in the "Ring of Fire" due to its numerous volcanoes.
The Aztecs, an ancient group of people, lived in Mexico around 600 years ago and built famous pyramids.
Mexican food is known for spicy meats wrapped in a bread called tortilla, which can be cut up and cooked into tortilla chips.
Mexico was the first country to produce chocolate and popcorn, and has cultural elements like the sombrero hat and the Mexican hat dance.

Begin driving by securing keys and unlocking the vehicle, emphasizing safety by always wearing a seatbelt.
Parents often stress seatbelt usage with the phrase, “We're not going anywhere until you put on your seatbelt.”
Disengage the handbrake prior to starting the engine to ensure the vehicle can move.

UK cars predominantly feature manual transmissions requiring gear changes; American vehicles usually have automatic transmissions.
Automatic vehicles are equipped with two pedals (brake and gas), while manual ones include three (clutch, brake, accelerator).
In the UK, drivers commonly say "step on the accelerator," contrasting with the American phrase "step on the gas."

Activate dashboard features using phrasal verbs like “turn on” for devices such as the radio and air conditioning.
Adjust sound levels on radios or air temperature using "turn up/down."
Windows can be opened by "putting them down" or an older expression, "winding down."

UK drivers routinely utilize indicators, while American drivers may neglect them, causing frustration for others.
In the U.S., indicators are known as "blinkers" or "turn signals."
Speed is measured in miles per hour; common phrases include "We're doing 70 miles an hour" and "Come on, speed up."

Common driving directions include "Turn left here," "Take your second right," and "Go straight ahead at the roundabout."
Rush hour can create significant traffic congestion, described with phrases like "it's bumper to bumper" and "we're not moving at all."

Driving can be enjoyable with music and a pleasant atmosphere, especially when the windows are open for fresh air.
After driving, actions include removing the seatbelt, engaging the handbrake, turning off the engine, and locking the doors.

The phrase “set off” signifies the beginning of a journey.
Long drives require breaks, as indicated by “It's a long drive, let's get a good night's sleep.”
A "back seat driver" refers to a person who offers unsolicited driving advice.