English Language Course Specification PDF, Mansoura National University, 2024-2025

Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 `English Language Compiled and edited by Dr. Rehab Gohar Dr. Enas El-Sayed Assoc. Pr...

Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 `English Language Compiled and edited by Dr. Rehab Gohar Dr. Enas El-Sayed Assoc. Prof. of Curriculum & Asst. Prof. of English Language Instruction: TEFL Faculty of Education-Mansoura Faculty of Education-Mansoura University University [email protected] [email protected] 2024/2025  Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 ‫بكالوريوس تكنولوجيا العلوم الصحية‬ Course Specification Academic year: 2024-2025 Course name/code: English HST ‫ اللغة االنجليزية‬:‫كود‬/‫اسم المقرر‬ Language (HST 101) 101 Academic Level: level 1 ‫ األول‬:‫المستوى األكاديمي‬ Dean: Prof.Dr. Rasha M.F. Barwa ‫ رشا محمد فتحى بروه‬/‫د‬.‫ ا‬:‫عميد الكلية‬ Course Coordinator: :‫منسق المقرر‬ Dr. Rehab Gohar & Dr. Enas El-Sayed ‫ أيناس السيد‬.‫ د‬،‫ رحاب جوهر‬.‫د‬.‫م‬.‫ا‬ 1  Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 University Mansoura National University Faculty Health Science Technology Academic Level Level 1, First Semester (2024-2025) Date of course specification approval 7/9/2024 A. Basic Information: Course data: Course Title English Language Course Code HST 101 Prerequisite - Teaching credit Hours: Lecture 2 : Practical.. Total Credit Hours 2 B. Professional Information: 1. Course Aims: The course provides students with the necessary skills regarding the different types of English writing and the way of writing text under the main specification free of spelling, grammar and verbatim errors, and proper use of punctuation. Report writing, abstract writing using accurate grammar & vocabulary are to be focused on. Major aims of the course include: Improving students’ EFL listening, speaking and conversation skills. Enhancing students’ EFL vocabulary and grammar Developing students’ EFL reading skills. Fostering student’s EFL writing skills 2  Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 2- Course Contents A- Theoretical part Week Topics Lecture No. credit Hours 1 English conversations (Part 1) 2 2 English conversations (Part 2) 2 3 English conversations (Part 3) 2 4 Building a better vocabulary (Part 1) 2 5 Building a better vocabulary (Part 2) 2 6 Developing basic writing skills (Part 1) 2 7 Developing basic writing skills (Part 2) 2 8 Developing basic writing skills (Part 3) 2 9 Reading practice (Part 1) 2 10 Reading practice (Part 2) 2 11 Reading practice (Part 3) 2 12 Grammar Practice (Part 1) 2 13 Grammar Practice (Part 2) 2 14 Start of Final written 3- Teaching and Learning Methods: Teaching and learning method Week No. 3.1 Advanced lecture 1-13 3.2 Role playing 1-5 3.3 Discussion 1-13 3.4 Oral presentations 1-5 3.5 Cooperative learning 1-13 3.6 Self-assessment 9-11 3.7 Games 4-5, 12-13 3.8 Differentiated instruction 1-13 3  Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 4. Student Assessment: a- Assessment Methods: 1- Continuous Semester Work 2-Written exam b. Assessment schedule Assessment 1 Continuous Semester Work From 4th week to 11th week Assessment 2 Written exam Starting from 14th week c. Weighing of assessments 1 Continuous Semester Work 20% 3 Final-term examination 80% Total 100% 5.Facilities required for teaching and learning -Classrooms Data show- Computers, sound system, Platform, Internet. - Computer Hall Computers - Data show - software programs facilities 4  Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 6- List of References No Reference Type 1. Electronic book prepared by staff members Book 2. Kristiyani, C. (2013). Developing Basic Writing Skills. Essential book English Language Education Study Program Teachers Training and Education Faculty Sanata Dharma University. Available at: https://repository.usd.ac.id/4389/1/508_Developing+b asic+writing+skills.pdf Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (2013). Vocabulary Building Workbook. Employment and Social Development, Canada. Available at: https://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/472495/publication. html Skipper, M. (2017). Advanced grammar and vocabulary (8th ed.). United Kingdom: Express Publishing. Yates, J. (2016). English conversation (2nd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Education. 5. https://www.ereadingworksheets.com/free-reading- Websites worksheets/reading-comprehension-worksheets/ https://online.flippingbook.com/view/9013053/20/ Course coordinators Dr. Rehab Gohar & Dr. Enas El-Sayed Date: Dean Prof. Dr. Rasha M. F. Barwa 7/9/2024 5  Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 The English Language Course 6  Mansoura National University Course specification Faculty of Health Science Technology 2024- 2025 Introduction This book introduces the students to different English language components, including conversations and phonetics (the study of speech sounds), morphology (the study of words), syntax (the structure of sentences), and semantics (the study of word and sentence meaning). It also allows them to practice various writing and reading skills. The book organizes the English language course into five primary sections. Section one is concerned conversations and idioms through which students grasp how to make a meaningful and interesting conversation, what should be avoided during a conversation, how to employ body language for effective communication, and how to conduct an oral presentation. Section two deals with vocabulary and building a rich vocabulary repertoire. Section three is about developing students’ basic writing skills. Section four presents different reading comprehension passages to allow them to practice multiple EFL reading skills. Section five allows students to practice and test their grammar skills. Finally, the book ends with references and sources of the course contents. Dr. Rehab Gohar & Dr. Enas El-Sayed Mansoura University 7  PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT ™ English Conversation 7  Introducing yourself and others ·1· Conversation: Meeting at a party Todd: Hi—you must be John’s cousin Matt, right? From San Diego? Matt: Correct! I just got in last night. Todd: I’m Todd, John’s roommate from Tech. Glad to meet you. I can assure you that I’m not anything like what John has told you. Matt: I’m happy to meet you, too—and, yes—I have heard about you! Football player and party animal extraordinaire. Todd: Football, yes—and as a matter of fact, I do like parties. But tell me more about yourself and what you do in San Diego. Matt: Well, I’m more (of) a surfer than a football player. You know, San Diego has a fantastic coast—and we can surf all day and then party on the beach at night. Todd: That sounds awesome. How long are you staying? Matt: Well, I’ll be here for two weeks. John has promised me a nonstop schedule— kind of a mix of sightseeing, meeting his friends, checking out the local scene, and—hopefully—camping in the mountains for a couple of days. Todd: John’s a good guy—and you can be sure he knows the local scene. He knows everybody in town. I’m sure he’ll show you a good time. And his friends are here to help. Matt: Thanks so much—I really appreciate that. I’m still a bit jet-lagged at the moment but should be in good shape by tomorrow. I’m looking forward to hearing what John has in store for me.... Todd: Don’t worry. We’ll all take good care of you. And don’t be surprised if we show up on your doorstep in San Diego one day, ready for surfing! Improving your conversation I’m Todd ( Jones) Simply using I’m and then saying your name is one way to introduce yourself. You could also say, for example, My name’s Todd (Jones). It is customary to offer your right hand in a handshake to the other person. In very informal situations, you could just say Hi, I’m Todd, with no handshake. To introduce one or more people other than yourself, say: This is (my wife,) Mary. And this is Susan, Bob, and Joe. 9  To introduce more than one person and also tell how you know them, say: These are my friends, Susan and Bob. And this is Jim, my coworker. All of the people introduced would then shake hands. You could also say: I want you to meet (my friends,) Susan and Bob. Glad/happy to meet you When you have been introduced to someone, it is customary to say (I’m) glad/happy to meet you or It’s nice to meet you. The reply is I’m happy to meet you or I’m happy to meet you, too. (The underlined words are pronounced slightly louder than the others.) Right? Right? is an informal way to ask for confirmation that what you have just said is true. The answer can be That’s right! This train goes to Washington, right? That’s right. You’re from Panama, right? That’s right, I am. Correct! This is an informal answer to a question that asks for confirmation. You’re Matt, aren’t you? Correct! This is Economics 101, right? Correct! If you want to tell your questioner that he or she is not correct, you can politely say this with, for example: No, that’s not right. No, that’s not correct. No, I’m not Matt; I’m Jim. No, she isn’t my sister. She’s my cousin. (The underlined words in the examples should be spoken slightly louder than the other words in the sentence.) To sarcastically indicate that something is not correct, Yeah, right! is used. Dylan, I heard you just won the lottery Yeah, right! Where did you hear jackpot! that nonsense? Am, do, etc. When a yes-or-no question using the verb to be is asked, the answer can be made emphatic by following it with a tag, in which, if the answer is yes, the verb is said a little louder than the other words. Affirmative tag answers are not contracted. Are you unhappy? Yes, I am. Is he sick? Yes, he is. Are we winning? Yes, we are. Are they leaving? Yes, they are. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 10  When the answer is no, there are two ways to answer with a tag. The underlined words are the ones said a little louder. Negative tag answers are usually contracted. The full form makes them more emphatic. Are you unhappy? No, I’m not./No, I am not. Is he sick? No, he’s not./No, he isn’t./No, he is not. Are we winning? No, we’re not./No, we aren’t./No, we are not. Are they leaving? No, they’re not./No, they aren’t./No, they are not. When an information question using any verb other than to be is asked, the answer can be made emphatic by following it with a tag, in which the verb is said a little louder than the other words. Do you eat meat? Yes, I do./No, I don’t./No, I do not. Does he like school? Yes, he does./No, he doesn’t./No, he does not. Do we wait in line? Yes, we do./No, we don’t./No, we do not. Do they live here? Yes, they do./No, they don’t./No, they do not. As a matter of fact As a matter of fact is a common expression that has a number of different meanings. In our example conversation it introduces a confirmation of what was previously said. It can go before the main clause or after the verb. I heard you were looking for a job. As a matter of fact, I am! Your friend is very good-looking; is he He is, as a matter of fact! single? You can express the same meaning with actually, but put it after the verb. I heard you were looking for a job. I am, actually. Your friend is beautiful, but I’ll bet She is, actually. she’s married. Just This use of just indicates that something happened only a short time before. It can be used with the past tense or with the present perfect tense. For example: Past tense Present perfect tense I just arrived. I have just arrived. They just finished. They have just finished. We just ate. We have just eaten. He just called. He has just called. To get in To get in means to arrive and is usually used in the past tense. What time did you get in? They got in late last night. Another way to say to arrive, when it refers to the future, is to get there. I hope we get there on time. She will get there by six. Introducing yourself and others  11  To get in can also mean to be accepted by a school/college/university or other group with limited membership. He applied to that college and really hopes to get in. She didn’t get in her first choice of sororities, but she got in another one, and she’s happy. I can assure you that... /you can be sure (that)... These are common ways of saying that you believe something to be true, hoping to win the con- fidence of the person you are talking to. I can assure you that I will work hard. You can be sure that something interesting will happen. Here is another way to express that you believe something to be true: I promise you that we won’t leave until the work is done. Party animal Party animal is an informal expression used to characterize someone who spends a lot of time with friends or acquaintances for entertainment—either at home or in public places. My friend Eric will take you downtown on Saturday night; he’s a real party animal, so you’ll meet lots of people. Extraordinaire Extraordinaire is a word borrowed from French, pronounced in English “ek stra or d- NAYRE.” It is used to exaggerate the meaning of the previous word. I’d like you to meet Marc—he’s our pastry chef extraordinaire. You have to try his cheesecake! What do you do? The question What do you do? asks what one’s job or occupation is. When you answer with a form of to be, you give a general job title. Note that the article a is always used when referring to only one person but is never used when referring to more than one person. What do you do? I’m a lawyer. What does he do? He’s a painter. What does she do? She’s a banker. What do they do? They’re professors. When the answer refers to someone who has a special title or position (i.e., is the only one in that position), use the instead of a. What does he do? He’s the president of ABC Enterprises. What do you do? I’m the school secretary (the only one). When you answer with another verb, you give more specific information about where you work. What do you do? I work for a large firm. What does he do? He drives a delivery truck. What does she do? She works at Atlas Bank. What do they do? They teach French at Loyola. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 12  When a specific time or place is included in the question, the answer refers to how people spend their time, not just what their jobs are. What do you do on weekends? I relax and hang out with my friends. What does she do at the beach? S he surfs, relaxes on the beach, and goes to the boardwalk for fun. Tell me about yourself Tell me about yourself is a polite way to let someone know that you are interested in learning more about him or her. It is better than asking direct questions, as the person being asked can decide what to tell and what not to tell. For example: Tell me about yourself. Well, I’m twenty-seven, I have a degree in mathematics, and I’ve been working at SYZ Company for three years. My parents are both economists, and I have a sister who’s a nurse and two younger brothers. They all live in Connecticut, where I was born. I’m crazy about football and have season tickets. I listen to reggae, etc. Tell me about yourself. Well, I’m from a small town, and I came here to work. Awesome Awesome is an expression that is used a lot—maybe too much!—to say that you think something is really good. Other ways to express the same thing include great, fantastic, terrific, wonderful, and cool. So... how do you like it here? It’s awesome! Did you like the movie? It was awesome! Thank you for taking me— you’re awesome! Nonstop schedule Nonstop schedule describes the activities of a very busy person, whether it be because of work, school, family responsibilities, or even social life. I don’t have time to see you this week, with my nonstop schedule. Other ways to indicate nonstop activity are around-the-clock or twenty-four-seven (twenty- four hours a day, seven days a week). I get telephone calls around-the-clock. He works twenty-four-seven, so I hardly ever see him. A mix A mix refers to a combination of different elements, usually indicating variety. There will be a good mix of music at the wedding, to keep the grandparents, the parents, and the young people happy. We invited a mix of people—family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Introducing yourself and others  13 Hopefully Hopefully is a word inserted to indicate your wishes that something will happen. It can come in the middle of a verb phrase (will + hopefully + verb), before the subject, or at the end of a sentence. I’ll hopefully graduate in two years. Hopefully, I’ll graduate in two years. I’ll graduate in two years, hopefully. If we leave right away, hopefully we’ll arrive on time. A couple of A couple really means two; however, informally, it can mean more than that—but it does indicate a small number. I’ll see you in a couple of hours. I’ll see you sometime today. It only costs a couple of dollars. It costs less than five dollars. He’ll be home in a couple of months. He’ll be home before the end of the year. A good guy Calling someone a good guy is a common way to recommend a male as being understanding of someone’s situation, helpful, or generous. A female with the same kind of recommendation would be called understanding/helpful/generous. If you’re looking for a used car, go see Sam Smith; he’s a good guy and will probably give you a good price. If you want a teaching job, call Mary Johnson; she’s very understanding and will give you good advice. The local scene The local scene refers to the culture and range of entertainment offered in a particular area. I’m moving to Springfield next month. Oh, it’s great! There are lots of things to do What’s the local scene like there? at night and on weekends. To show someone a good time To show someone a good time means to make sure he or she is entertained. If you come visit in December, we’ll show you a good time. All our friends have parties in December! Thanks so much Thanks so much is a common way of expressing appreciation. Other ways to say this are Thank you very much/Thanks a lot/I really appreciate this/You’re a doll (very informal)/You’re a sweetheart (very informal). The reply to any of these could be You’re welcome/No problem/I’m glad I could help you/ Glad to help/Any time. Thanks so much for fixing my tire. No problem. I really appreciate it. Thank you very much for helping us. You’re welcome. Any time. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 14 To be in good shape To be in good shape means to be fit financially or situationally. My sister’s husband has a good job, so they’re in good shape financially. She has a good education and a lot of experience, so she’s in good shape for the job market. A similar expression, to be in shape, means to be physically fit. She exercises every day to stay in shape. You look great. How do you stay in shape? To be looking forward to something The expression looking forward to indicates that the speaker is very happy about a future event. I’m looking forward to seeing you on Saturday. She’s really looking forward to going to college in the fall. Another way to say this is with the expression, can’t wait to. I can’t wait to see you on Saturday. She can’t wait to go to college in the fall. To have in store for The phrase to have in store for indicates an unknown situation that someone presents to some- one else; it can be good or bad. Well, I’m going home, but I have no idea what my family will have in store for me. We’re going shopping tomorrow to see what the designers have in store for us this season. He’s been working there for years, but he never knows what’s in store for him until he gets there. To show up on someone’s doorstep To show up on someone’s doorstep means to visit someone without notice. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you plan to stay overnight—or longer—but it’s possible. I was just getting ready to go out when my cousin showed up on my doorstep. Related expressions are drop in and drop by, but these are used only for short visits—never an overnight stay. We were in town, so we decided to drop in to see you. Please drop by for a while. I miss seeing you. To show up, on the other hand, is used negatively to indicate that someone often doesn’t appear when expected. Pia said she was coming, but you never know if she’ll show up or not. Another meaning of show up, when used with a direct object, is to perform or seem better than someone else. Your singing was fantastic! You showed up all the other contestants. He will show up the competition with his fantastic speech. She showed us all up when she came in wearing that red dress! Introducing yourself and others  15  EXERCISE 1·1 Circle the most appropriate short answer for each question. 1. Is Larry coming tomorrow? a. Yes, he does. c. Yes, he is. b. No, he doesn’t. d. No, he won’t. 2. Do you like chocolate ice cream? a. No, I’m not. c. Yes, I am. b. No, I don’t. d. Yes, she does. 3. Are we leaving at six? a. Yes, they are. c. Yes, we are. b. Yes, they do. d. No, we don’t. 4. Is she a lawyer? a. No, she doesn’t. c. No, he doesn’t. b. Yes, he is. d. Yes, she is. 5. Are they here yet? a. No, they’re not. c. No, they do not. b. Yes, they’re. d. Yes, they do. EXERCISE 1·2 Match each remark in the first column with an appropriate response from the second column. Note: Some remarks have more than one appropriate response. 1. Thank you! a. As a matter of fact, no. 2. I just got in from Chicago. b. Awesome. 3. Are you a doctor? c. Glad I could help you. 4. Tell me about yourself. d. He’s a cook. 5. I’m a real party animal. e. I am, actually. 6. We’re in good shape financially. f. I hope I get in. 7. You should go to college. g. I’m a college student from Ohio. 8. You’re a doll. h. No problem. 9. Is this your doll? i. No, I’m not. 10. What does he do? j. Then you can show us a good time. k. Welcome. l. Yeah, right! m. Yes, it is. n. You’re welcome. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 16  EXERCISE 1·3 Write a tag answer for each of the following questions. 1. Do you work twenty-four-seven? 2. Are you from New York? 3. Do your parents live in Los Angeles? 4. Are you a student? 5. Is your best friend studying English? EXERCISE 1·4 Write a yes-or-no question for each of the following answers. 1. No, we don’t. 2. Yes, she is. 3. No, they aren’t. 4. Yes, I do. 5. Yes, he does. 6. No, I’m not. Introducing yourself and others  17  EXERCISE 1·5 Match the words or expressions in the first column with words or expressions in the second column that have a similar meaning. Note: There may be more than one match for each expression. 1. a party animal a. twenty-four-seven 2. extraordinaire b. a combination 3. awesome c. an understanding male 4. a mix d. arrive 5. you’re welcome e. attend 6. nonstop f. be accepted 7. hopefully g. current events here 8. in shape h. fantastic 9. a couple of i. glad to help you 10. a good guy j. have plans for someone 11. any time k. if we are lucky 12. the local scene l. no problem 13. look forward to m. physically fit 14. have in store for n. round-the-clock 15. show up o. someone who likes to have fun 16. get in p. two 17. can’t wait q. expert r. want to EXERCISE 1·6 Circle the most appropriate response to each remark. 1. Are you Sam’s brother? a. No, I don’t. c. I can assure you. b. That’s correct. d. As a matter of fact. 2. I’m the president’s brother. a. Actually! c. Yeah, right! b. You’re a doll! d. You’re welcome. 3. We’re leaving at six tomorrow morning. a. Awesome. c. Any time. b. I’m in shape. d. No, I’m not. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 18 4. I work all the time. a. Yes, you’re a party animal. c. Yes, you have just arrived. b. Yes, you got in. d. Yes, you’re busy twenty-four-seven. 5. Are you coming to my party? a. I’m looking forward to it. c. I’m in shape. b. It’s a mix. d. I can assure you that. EXERCISE 1·7 Write a remark or question for each of the following responses. 1. She’s a teacher. 2. You’re welcome. 3. I can assure you that I’ll show up on time. 4. I’m an engineer from Seattle, and I’ve been working here for six months. 5. I can’t wait. EXERCISE 1·8 Fill each blank with the correct form of the indicated verb. 1. I can’t wait to (see) you next week. 2. We are looking forward to (see) you next week. 3. Are you looking forward to (go) on your vacation? 4. What are you looking forward to (do) there? 5. I can’t wait to (hear) all about it. Introducing yourself and others  19  EXERCISE 1·9 Imagine you are introducing two of your friends to each other. Write what you would say and what each of your friends would say. Ask an English-speaking friend to check your answers. EXERCISE 1·10 Write a conversation between two people, using at least eight of the expressions explained in this chapter. Ask an English-speaking friend to check your answers. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 20  Expressing opinions, likes, and dislikes ·2· Conversation: Getting acquainted Lauren: Hi—you must be Sarah. I can tell from your picture. I’m Lauren. Finally we meet! So we’re going to be roomies this semester! Sarah: Yes, I recognize you from your photo, too! I’m so glad to meet you in person—and I see from your T-shirt that you like baseball. I’m a big fan, too! Lauren: Well, the T-shirt was a going-away present from my brother, who’s a baseball player. Look on the back—it has a photo of all the players on his team. They actually won the city championship this summer. Sarah: That’s awesome. I tell you, I’m not very athletic, but I love to watch baseball, even if it’s a Little League game. You could say I’m a professional spectator. What about you, do you play a sport? Lauren: Yes, I play tennis. As a matter of fact, I have a scholarship, and I’m going to play for the university. Now tell me, what else do you like to do? Sarah: Well—what I like to do best is dance. I’m studying classical ballet, but I also like to dance to popular music. Lauren: Cool. We have a lot in common. I like to dance, too. Think you’ll be up for checking out the local clubs this weekend? Sarah: Oh, yeah. And the restaurants, too. Speaking of which—are you hungry? I’d love to grab a bite before it gets too late. I’m starving! Lauren: Are you kidding me? I’m always up for going out! How about trying the place up the street? I’m kind of hungry for a good hamburger. Later: Sarah: Lauren, what do you think of our room? Lauren: To be honest with you, I really can’t stand that dark color on the walls. It’s, like, really depressing. I prefer light colors. Plus, I’d like to change the rug and the bedspreads. Do you like them? Sarah: No, I agree with you. They’re horrible. With a couple of coats of paint and a few small changes, we’ll make this room comfortable and cozy. Everybody will want to hang out here. Lauren: Man, I’m so relieved! I think we’re really going to get along. I’m going to call my mom right now and tell her how cool my new roomie is. 21 Improving your conversation Like Like has a number of different meanings and uses. What do you like? asks what things a person finds pleasing. Do you like ice cream? Yes, I do./No, I don’t. What kind of ice cream do you like? I like vanilla. My sister likes chocolate. What do you like to do? asks what activities a person enjoys. What do you like to do on weekends? I like to relax and go out with friends. Would you like... ? is a polite way of asking what someone wants. What would you like for your birthday? I would like a big party. What would you like to do today? I would like to go to the movies with you. I’m/she’s/he’s/etc. like... is often inserted into a conversation to emphasize what someone is currently feeling or thinking. This is especially common among young people. I’m like really mad at him. She’s like scared to death. It’s like the worst movie I’ve ever seen. Love Love, when it refers to a person or people, indicates deep affection. When love begins, there is often a feeling of great excitement, called being in love. Her husband loves her, but she is no longer in love with him. Love, when it refers to a thing, indicates a thing or an activity that a person finds very pleasing. Do you like ice cream? Yes, I love it!/No, I don’t like it. Do you like to go shopping? Yes, I love it!/No, I don’t like to. Would you like to dance? I’d love to!/I’m sorry; I promised someone else. What do you think of... ? What do you think of this? is a way of asking someone’s opinion of something. What do you think of the new teacher? She’s strict, but I think she’s great. I like her. Are you kidding me? Are you kidding me? is an expression that indicates that something is so true—or untrue—that it doesn’t need to be said. Do you like to dance? Are you kidding me? I’d rather dance than eat! Would you like to go shopping Are you kidding me? I have to study! tomorrow? Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 22 Up for To be up for something means to want to do it. Are you up for going to the movies with us? Yes, I’d love to go. I’m not really up for doing anything tonight. I’m too tired. Alternative expressions are to feel like doing something or to be in the mood for (doing) something. Do you feel like going to a museum? No, I’m not in the mood for (going to) a museum today. Stand To stand means to tolerate/to accept. It’s pretty hot today, but I can stand it. He went home because he couldn’t stand the hot sun. Can’t stand often means to not like. He says he can’t stand his little sister, but we know it’s not true. Big fan To (not) be a (big) fan indicates that someone does or does not like something. I like movies, but I’m not a big fan of science fiction. Other ways of indicating something one likes include awesome/cool/fantastic/great/ amazing. College is awesome. My professors are cool, the classes are fantastic, the nightlife is great, and my friends are amazing. These words are interchangeable—all of them work in the positions of the others. College is great/fantastic/cool/amazing. My professors are awesome/fantastic/amazing, the classes are awesome/cool/great/amazing, the nightlife is awesome/cool/fantastic/ amazing, and my friends are awesome/cool/fantastic/great. Other ways of indicating dislike include horrible/terrible/depressing/gross/disgusting. I didn’t like that show; I thought it was horrible. The plot was depressing, and the dancing was gross. Going-away present A going-away present is a gift customarily given to someone who is leaving for an extended period, perhaps to go to college, to move to another area, or to work in another place. They gave me a picture of everyone in the office as a going-away present when I left for my new job. Tell Tell is used in a number of expressions. It is followed by an object pronoun (me/you/her/him/us/ them), the name of a person, or a word that refers to a person or people (friend(s), parent(s), etc.). Expressing opinions, likes, and dislikes  23  Tell me is a way of asking someone to relate information. Call me and tell me about your classes. After tell me, the subject-verb order of a question using the verb be is reversed. Who is she? Tell me who she is. What are you doing? Tell me what you are doing. With all other verbs, the do/does is dropped, and the verb is conjugated normally. What do you do? Tell me what you do. Where do they go? Tell me where they go. When does he get in? Tell me when he gets in. Don’t tell me indicates that you fear a certain answer. Don’t tell me you’re sick! (I’m afraid you’re sick!) I tell you indicates that you really mean what you are going to say. I tell you, the dorm is really gross! I’m telling you, it looks like rain. Tell is used with the truth, with or without an object pronoun. He always tells (me) the truth. Can tell indicates the ability to know something without being told. It is followed by a new clause with a subject and verb. I can tell (that) you had a good day by that smile on your face! Can you tell I’ve been crying? Say Say indicates making an utterance but without indicating that it is directed at any particular person. What did he say? He said that he didn’t know the answer. Say to + an object pronoun or a person’s name can be used to indicate information directed at a particular person or people. What did he say to you?/What did he tell you? You could/might say indicates a suggested conclusion. You could say she’s in love. You might say the cafeteria food is gross. Speak To speak means to use a language orally. They don’t speak English at home. She lost her front teeth and speaks with a lisp. The teacher spoke for almost two hours. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 24  Speaking of which is an expression that indicates that something mentioned reminds one of other information about it. I’m going to apply to the state university. Speaking of which, did you know Melissa is going there? Our state representative is up for reelection. Speaking of which, I heard she is coming to speak at our school next week. Finally Finally indicates relief that something long awaited has happened. It goes after a conjugated verb. I’ve been looking for my keys all day, and I’ve finally found them. An expression with the same meaning is at last, which goes at the beginning or end of the clause. At last I’ve found them! I’ve found them at last! So So has many different uses. In the example conversation it introduces information that both people already know. So this is your new car. Will you take me for a ride? So you’re getting married! Congratulations! Actually/as a matter of fact Actually and as a matter of fact often have the same function. They have many different uses. In the example conversation they indicate that a fact is a little surprising but of interest to the other person. So you’re an Arabic teacher! I actually studied Arabic in college. I want you to meet my sister. As a matter of fact, she’ll be here in a few minutes. Even if Even if can introduce a fact that seems a little hard to believe. I’m going to finish this paper even if I have to work on it all night. Plus Plus adds additional information that reinforces an opinion or argument. I like him. He’s really nice. Plus, he’s good-looking. To be honest with you The phrase to be honest with you introduces a statement that you think a person might not want to hear. Thank you for inviting me to the movies, but to be honest with you, I’m not really a big fan of horror movies. Expressing opinions, likes, and dislikes  25  Yeah Yeah is an informal way of saying yes. It is pronounced with two syllables: “ye-uh.” Man Man introduces something that the speaker feels strongly about. (It can be said to or by a male or a female.) Man, this course is really hard! Man, I wish I could take a week off! Man, your sister is beautiful! Get along Get along (with someone) means to live, work, or play with someone without problems or arguments. He’s very easygoing. He gets along with everybody. Tom and his brother don’t get along. They’re always fighting. Hang out To hang out means to do something socially with one or more other people. We’re going to hang out at Jess’s house this afternoon. We’ll probably just listen to music, maybe practice that new dance step. Grab a bite To grab a bite (to eat) means to get something to eat quickly. We’re in a hurry to get there, so we’ll just grab a bite to eat at a fast-food place. Roomie Roomie is an informal name for a person who shares a bedroom or home with you. How do you like your new roomie? Scholarship A scholarship is a prize or an award that provides money that enables someone to attend a private school or university. I’m hoping to get a scholarship so I can go away to college next year. Little League Little League is an organization that teaches baseball to children, organizes them into teams, and arranges games and tournaments for them. He just loves baseball. He’s been playing it ever since he was in Little League. Type your text Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 26  EXERCISE 2·1 Write a question using like for each of the following answers. 1. I’d love to have dinner with you. 2. No, I don’t like fast-food restaurants. 3. We’d like to go to the mountains. 4. I like to go skiing then. 5. No, I’m not in the mood for doing that today. 6. Cherries are my favorite. 7. I don’t know what he likes to do. 8. No. She prefers vanilla. 9. Yes, I love it! 10. Yes, I’d love to! EXERCISE 2·2 Fill in each blank with the correct form of say, speak, or tell, as appropriate. 1. It’s important that you the truth. 2. Her children Spanish, Italian, and English. 3. Did you him my secret? 4. What did he to you? 5. What did he you? Expressing opinions, likes, and dislikes  27  6. Can you we’ve been fighting? 7. what you think. 8. Please don’t that about us. 9. Please don’t my parents where we went. 10. Don’t me you missed the bus again! 11. I you, that movie is great! 12. Mom called? What did she ? EXERCISE 2·3 Change each question to a statement beginning with “Tell me... ” 1. Where are you going? 2. What are they doing? 3. How do you get there? 4. When do you study? 5. Why is she crying? 6. What time do we leave? 7. Who are you texting? 8. How much does it cost? Type your text Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 28  EXERCISE 2·4 Match the words or expressions in the first column with words or expressions in the second column that have a similar meaning. Note: There may be more than one match for each expression. 1. great a. amazing 2. horrible b. awesome 3. can tell c. be a fan of 4. eat d. be in the mood for 5. like a lot e. be up for 6. not argue f. can’t stand 7. not tolerate g. care about 8. want to h. cool 9. think of i. depressing 10. love j. disgusting k. fantastic l. feel like m. feel romantic about n. get along with o. grab a bite p. gross q. have an opinion about r. know EXERCISE 2·5 Circle the word or expression that best completes each of the following sentences. 1. Why did you order this? You know I this kind of food. a. don’t get along with c. can’t stand b. grab a bite with d. hang out with 2. She can afford to go to college. She has savings, she got a scholarship. a. even if c. yeah b. plus d. finally Expressing opinions, likes, and dislikes  29  3. We are interested in buying the house we saw this afternoon. , it’s much nicer than we expected. a. Actually c. Finally b. Plus d. Even if 4. Do you like your new roomie? Yeah, I with her pretty well. a. hang out c. am honest b. stand d. get along 5. I just saw the movie that won the Academy Award for Best Picture. , what did you think of the dress the actress wore at the ceremonies? a. Are you kidding me? c. Speaking of which b. You might say d. I tell you EXERCISE 2·6 Circle the most appropriate response to each of the following questions or statements. 1. What did you think of her dress? a. Are you kidding me? It was gross. c. Actually, I’m not up for it. b. Man, I don’t get along with it. d. I can tell you’re honest with me. 2. Would you like to have dinner with me at the new Chinese restaurant? a. Plus, my roomie’s going. c. To be honest with you, I can’t stand Chinese food. b. Actually, I’m honest with you. d. You could grab a bite. 3. We’re on the boat. Come over and hang out with us! a. I’m up for that. c. Speaking of which, I got the scholarship. b. I tell you, it’s depressing. d. Plus, it’s fantastic. 4. Man! I’m really hungry. a. Let’s join Little League. c. You could say we don’t hang out there. b. Let’s grab a bite to eat. d. Speaking of which, I played in the Little League. 5. I’ve had a really bad day. a. That’s awesome. c. I can tell. b. Even if it’s raining. d. Even if you’re tired. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 30  EXERCISE 2·7 Write an appropriate remark or question for each of the following responses. Ask an English-speaking friend to check your answers. 1. That’s awesome. 2. Speaking of which, I played in the Little League. 3. I tell you, it’s depressing. 4. I’m not in the mood for that. 5. As a matter of fact, I am. 6. You might say it’s a little difficult. 7. Don’t tell me you can’t go! 8. Finally! EXERCISE 2·8 Write a conversation between two people in which they ask each other and tell each other what they like and what they like to do. Ask an English-speaking friend to check it for you. Expressing opinions, likes, and dislikes  31  EXERCISE 2·9 Answer the following questions. Ask an English-speaking friend to check your answers. 1. What do you like to do when you hang out with your friends? 2. What kind of restaurants do you like? 3. Are you usually up for going to your favorite restaurant, even if you’re tired? 4. Where do you usually go to grab a bite to eat? 5. Is there anything you can’t stand? Why? Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 32  Describing people, places, and things ·3· Conversation: Talking about roommates Eric: So, Michael, what’s your new roommate like? Michael: Well, if you have all day, I’ll describe him for you. He’s quite the character. Eric: I don’t have all day, dude—but basically—do you get along with him? Michael: Actually, yeah—but that’s only because we hardly ever see each other. The guy sleeps all day. Sometimes he gets up just to go to his classes, and then he comes back to the room and goes back to bed. Then he’ll get up at midnight and study all night. Eric: Really? You don’t eat together, then? Michael: The truth is, I don’t even know when he eats, or where. Eric: Then at least he doesn’t leave a mess in the kitchen. Michael: No! The guy is incredibly neat. He actually leaves the bathroom clean every day—and he doesn’t seem to have dirty clothes. He’s like a ghost. Eric: Man, I think you have the perfect roommate! Michael: What about yours? What’s he like? Eric: Well, he’s the exact opposite of yours. We’re a lot alike, and we’re together a lot. I mean, we have two classes together and we’re in the same fraternity, so we’re really good friends. Michael: Sounds to me like you have the ideal roommate! Eric: Well, yes—and no. Mine is a disaster in the house. In the first place, he always leaves a mess in the kitchen; he doesn’t wash the dishes or take out the trash. Plus, he throws his clothes all over the place. Not to mention how he leaves the bathroom... Michael: Come on, Eric—he sounds a lot like you. No wonder you get along so well! 33 Improving your conversation So So has many different uses. In the example conversation, it is used to begin a question that is not surprising and may have even been expected. So how much do you want for the car? (You know I’m interested in buying it.) So when are we leaving? (We both know we are going somewhere together.) Another use of so is to mean extremely. I can’t wait to get there. I’m so excited. To be like Like asks for a description of a person, place, or thing. What’s his wife like? Is she nice? Yes, she’s very nice. What’s your new house like? It’s big, with four bedrooms and three baths. To be like is also a slang (informal) expression that means to be thinking or telling your reaction. She comes home late, and I’m like, “Where have you been?” He told me I wasn’t studying enough, and I was like, “What do you mean? I study for three hours every night!” The teacher told me I failed the math test, and I was like, “Oh man, my mom’s going to be upset.” Look like, smell like, and sound like express similarity of appearance, smell, and sound. Mary looks (just/exactly) like her mother. This perfume smells like gardenias. When I talk to you on the phone, you sound like your dad. These same combinations can also mean seem like, to indicate a guess about what is happening. It looks like (it’s going to) rain. It smells like something’s burning. It sounds like you’re very upset. When things are similar, they are said to be, look, smell, or sound alike. You guys are exactly alike—always getting into trouble. The twins look alike. These two roses smell (exactly) alike. You and your brother don’t sound (at all) alike. Will Will—usually in contraction form (’ll)—is often used to make an offer to do something. I’ll go to the store for you. We’ll wash the dishes. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 34  The same contraction can be used to emphasize that an activity is habitual. Sometimes when I’m alone I’ll go for a long walk. In the summer, he’ll stay up late every night playing poker with his friends. Well Well indicates that what you plan to say next may need a little explanation. Did you write this letter? Well, yes, but I was upset at the time, and I really didn’t mean everything I wrote. How are you? Well, I’m OK now, but I’ve had a terrible week. Dude Dude is an informal, friendly way of calling a male friend or acquaintance instead of using his name. Dude, what time are we leaving tomorrow? Basically Basically indicates a summarized or generalized opinion. What’s your teacher like? Well, basically, he’s the worst teacher in the whole school. Actually/the truth is The terms actually and the truth is indicate that the speaker is telling the truth, even if it is surprising. Do you like your new job? Actually, yes—even though I work nine hours a day. Another expression that means the same thing is as a matter of fact. Are you moving? As a matter of fact, I am! Really Really? is a way of asking if what was said was the truth. I’m not going to study tonight. Really? I thought you had a test tomorrow. Really before an adjective means very. This movie is really good, but I’m really tired, so I’m going to bed. Hardly ever Hardly ever means almost never. You hardly ever call me anymore. Are you mad at me? Describing people, places, and things  35 At least At least indicates that a situation could be worse. Ooh, it’s so cold outside today! Well at least it isn’t raining. What about... ? What about... ? is a way to ask the same question about a different topic. Are you all going to the game? Yeah, Jack and I are going. What about Joe? No, he can’t go. I mean I mean precedes further explanation of the previous information. She keeps her house really clean. I mean, she dusts and vacuums every day! Other expressions that introduce further explanation include in other words and that is. He studies twenty-four-seven. In other words, he’s a serious student. She’s a real party animal. That is, she goes out every night. In the first place In the first place is used to present the first example of why you do or don’t like something. Second/in the second place or plus can precede the next examples. A final example can be preceded by not to mention that. We’re not happy in the suburbs. In the first place, it takes us almost two hours to get to work. In the second place, when we get home, we’re exhausted. Plus, we spend so much on gas. Not to mention that the kids are in day care for more than ten hours! Then Then can introduce a logical conclusion. I’ve got my tickets, and my bags Then you’re all ready to go. are packed. Come on Come on is a way to say that someone is exaggerating a little bit. I have to lose twenty pounds. Come on, Alex, you’re not that overweight! It can also be used to ask for a reconsideration or change of mind. I’m going to drive home. Come on, dude, you’ve had too much to drink. Give me your keys! Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 36 Wonder I wonder expresses an unanswered question or doubt. The subject-verb order is different from that of a question. Where is Ellie? I wonder where Ellie is. Is Jon married? I wonder if Jon’s married. No wonder indicates that something is obvious. He’s smart, energetic, well educated, and charming. No wonder you like him! Quite the character To be quite the character is to be unusual in some way. She never stops talking but can always Yeah, I hear she’s quite the character. make you laugh. He’s really quiet and never talks to He must be quite the character. anybody, yet the girls all like him. Fraternity A fraternity is an established social group of university men, who often live together in a frat house and mainly exist for social purposes. Fraternities are also known as Greeks, as they use Greek letters to form their names. Similar organizations exist for women and are called sororities. EXERCISE 3·1 Circle the best answer for each question. 1. What are you like? a. I’m like, what’s going on? c. I like chocolate. b. I’m a little shy. d. It’s crazy. 2. What do you like? a. I’m like, who are you? c. I like red dresses. b. I’m always busy. d. I’m crazy. 3. Who do you look like? a. I look like my sister. c. I like my sister. b. It sounds crazy. d. I sing like my father. 4. What is your sister like? a. I like my sister. c. She’s tall. b. She likes to ski. d. She likes me. 5. What is her boyfriend like? a. He likes her. c. He’s like, go home! b. She likes him. d. He’s very smart. Describing people, places, and things  37  EXERCISE 3·2 Write a question using like for each of the following answers. 1. He’s very tall. 2. Yes, she does. 3. He’s quite the character. 4. They like to play basketball. 5. She likes to play with dolls. 6. I’m honest. EXERCISE 3·3 Match the words or expressions in the first column with those in the second column that have a similar meaning. Note: There may be more than one match for each expression. 1. in general a. actually 2. the truth is b. as a matter of fact 3. almost never c. basically 4. not to mention d. hardly ever 5. next e. I mean 6. it’s no surprise that f. I wonder 7. very g. I’m like 8. in other words h. no wonder 9. I don’t know i. plus 10. I’m thinking j. really k. so l. then Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 38  EXERCISE 3·4 Match each question in the first column with an appropriate response from the second column. Note: Some questions have more than one appropriate response. 1. What is he like? a. Actually, he does. 2. What does he do? b. Actually, he is. 3. What does he like? c. Actually, he likes pizza. 4. Is he a singer? d. Actually, he’s really nice. 5. Does he play the piano? e. As a matter of fact, he doesn’t. 6. Is he in a fraternity? f. As a matter of fact, he likes video games. 7. Does he call you a lot? g. Hardly ever. 8. When does he work? h. He doesn’t have a job. i. He looks like a movie star. j. He’s a carpenter. k. He’s a movie star. l. He’s awesome. m. He’s nice. n. He’s quite the character. o. As a matter of fact, he is. EXERCISE 3·5 Circle the word or expression that best completes each of the following sentences. 1. Let’s go home. I’m tired. a. feel like c. really b. basically d. at least 2. We need another player for the team. Tom? a. What about c. As a matter of fact b. Actually d. Hardly ever 3. It’s a really hard course. , I’m up all night studying. a. What about c. Hardly ever b. Then d. I mean 4. She talks a lot. , she’s on the telephone from the time she gets up ’til she goes to bed. a. So c. Plus b. Then d. Basically Describing people, places, and things  39  5. This chair is comfortable. I could sit here all day. a. so c. no wonder b. plus d. seems like EXERCISE 3·6 Circle the most appropriate response to each of the following questions or remarks. 1. Ben never showed up last night. a. Well, he hardly ever goes out. c. At least he’s sick. b. Come on, let’s go out. d. Actually, he’s a party animal. 2. I don’t think I’ll go to the concert. It’s too expensive. a. At least it costs $25. c. So you’re going? b. Come on, you have d. I wonder if you have enough money. plenty of money. 3. What do you think of the new mayor? a. No wonder he is the mayor. c. What about Janice? b. I’ll call him. d. At least he shows up at meetings. 4. There’s a lot of traffic on Route 66. a. So where are we going? c. Then we’ll get there quickly. b. What about Route 95? d. No wonder we like Route 66. 5. So, what do you like about your fraternity? a. In the first place, the guys c. I mean, she really likes her sorority. are really cool. b. Dude, you’re quite the character! d. No wonder you’re in a fraternity. EXERCISE 3·7 The following statements explain why a friend does not like her apartment. Write in the words or expressions (e.g., in the first place, not to mention that, in the second place, plus) that introduce each statement. I do not like my apartment. 1. , it’s in a terrible location. 2. , it’s way too small. 3. , the kitchen has really old appliances. 4. , there’s a leak in the roof! Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 40 EXERCISE 3·8 Complete the following sentences in your own words to explain why you like or don’t like something. Ask an English-speaking friend to check your answers. What do you like or not like? In the first place,. Second,. Plus,. Not to mention that. EXERCISE 3·9 Write a conversation between you and a prospective roommate in which you describe yourself and ask him or her to do the same. Ask an English-speaking friend to check your answers. Describing people, places, and things  41 42  Striking up a conversation ·4 · Conversation: Running into a friend Nicole: Hi, Jen. What’s up? I haven’t seen you for ages. Jen: Nicole! Fancy running into you here. Do you have time for a cup of coffee? Nicole: Sure. We really need to catch up. Do you work around here? Jen: At the dress shop across the street. I’m a sales assistant for the time being, but I’m hoping they’ll promote me to buyer after I have some experience on the floor. Nicole: Oh—I love that shop. Their clothes are so trendy and different from the run of the mill. You look fantastic—I’ll bet their sales have gone up since you started working there. Jen: Well—I try! The thing is, I enjoy the work, because I love the clothes, and I like helping people find what works for them. It’s actually quite fulfilling. Nicole: Good for you. And I think the idea of becoming a buyer is great. Before you know it, you’ll be working on your own designs. I remember how you used to dream of being a fashion designer. Jen: Yeah, and I think this is a step in the right direction. Now, what are you up to? The last I heard, you were about to move across country. I hope you’re back to stay! Nicole: As a matter of fact, I just got back a couple of months ago. I’m glad I went, because now I know I really want to be here. I’m working as a waitress right now but am hoping to get a teaching job. I’ve applied to most of the local school districts so have my fingers crossed I’ll get something this fall. Jen: What do you want to teach? I’ve heard there are openings for high school teachers in Howard County. Nicole: No way! I haven’t even applied there. I’ll do it as soon as I get home. Man, that’ll be awesome if they need a biology teacher. Thanks for the tip! Which reminds me—waiting tables isn’t all bad. On weekends I get pretty good tips. And banking on the info you just gave me, I think I’ll follow you back to work and splurge on a new dress! Jen: Great. I already have in mind some things for you to try on. Later: Nicole: Wow. I love this one. I guess I’m getting ahead of myself, but I have a feeling this is just what I need for the interview with the principal. Jen: And for the first day of school! Nicole: Thanks so much for your help. Now I’m really pumped! I’m so happy I ran into you today. Jen: Me, too. Let’s make sure we get together more often. Nicole: Yeah. I promise I’ll keep in touch. Jen: Take care, and let me know what happens. Bye for now. Nicole: Bye—and thanks again! 43 Improving your conversation What’s up? What’s up? is an informal way of asking people how they are. What are you up to? is a way to ask people what they have been doing lately. Hey, Kim—what’s up? Oh, not much. How are you? So, what are you up to these days? Oh, just working, as usual. How about you? Run into Run into means to see someone by chance or in an unexpected place. Fancy running into you here Fancy running into you here means I didn’t imagine I would see you. It is often said when you see people in places where you normally don’t see them. Other expressions you could use in this situation are fancy meeting you here and what a coincidence. For ages For ages and in ages mean for a very long time. How’s Dan? I haven’t seen him for ages. Yes, it’s been a long time. He’s fine. Before you know it Before you know it means very quickly. Oh, I’m so tired of school. Calm down. Before you know it, you’ll be finished and wishing you were back in school again! As soon as As soon as indicates that something will happen at the same time that something else happens. We’ll eat as soon as your dad gets home. I’ll call you as soon as I get the information. Used to Used to has several uses. To be used to (something) indicates a custom or habit. At first it was difficult to live here, but now I am used to the cold weather. I work the night shift, so I am used to staying up all night and sleeping during the day. Used to (do) can indicate action that was once habitual but is no longer done, or a situation that was once true but no longer is. She used to live next door to us. He used to smoke. I used to be married to him. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 44  Used to (do) can also indicate an action that was done routinely in the past. When we were little, we used to swim in the lake. When he was a kid, he used to ride his bike to school. This meaning can alternatively be expressed with would (always) or a past tense verb. When we were little, we would always swim in the lake. When we were little, we swam in the lake. When he was a kid, he would always ride his bike to school. When he was a kid, he rode his bike to school. Try Try on means to put clothing, shoes, or accessories on to see if they fit or if you like them. I would never buy shoes without trying them on first. Try this dress on. Let’s see how it looks. Try out means to use a car or other equipment to see how well you handle it or if you like it. Your new camera looks awesome! Would you like to try it out? Try to/try and indicate an effort to do something that may not be easy. Try to be here before eight o’clock./Try and be here before eight o’clock. Try + verb in -ing form (something) indicates a suggestion for solving a problem or prob- lematical situation. I can’t get the door open. Try turning the key in the other direction. I try is a way to express modesty after receiving a compliment. You are a good cook! Thank you; I try. There is/there are There is is followed by a singular or non-count noun to indicate that it exists. There is a stop sign on the corner. There is milk in the refrigerator. There is too much pollution here. There are is followed by a plural noun to indicate that more than one person, place, thing, or abstract notion exists. There are a lot of bikes on the road. There are too many people in this class. Wow Wow is a common way to express surprise. Here is your exam. Wow! I got an A. This is where we’ll be living for a while. Wow—it sure needs a lot of work! Striking up a conversation  45 I’ll bet I’ll bet indicates sincere belief that what you are going to say is true, even though you have no proof. What’s Maria up to? I’ll bet she’s making a lot of money. However, if you are replying to someone else’s statement with I’ll bet, this indicates that you do not believe it. I hear Maria’s making a lot of money. I’ll bet. No way No way is another expression that can mean two opposite things: definitely no or that’s good news. Are you going to Claudia’s party? No way! She hardly speaks to me. We’re going to the beach for a week. No way! That sounds like a lot of fun! On the... To be on the floor means to be working as a salesperson in a store. I’ll bet you’re tired after being on the floor all day. To be on the job means to be working on a project that requires physical labor. We’re installing the electricity in How long have you been on the job? the new building up the street. Trendy Trendy is an adjective that describes the latest fashions. It looks like long skirts are trendy again this year. Run of the mill Run of the mill is a way to describe something very ordinary or nondescript. If used before a noun, it has a hyphen between each word; if used without a noun, there are no hyphens. My shoes are comfortable but not trendy. They are quite run of the mill. This book is quite interesting. It’s not just a run-of-the-mill romance novel. Tip A tip is an extra payment made to a server, taxi driver, beautician, barber, or anyone else working to provide a service. The waiter gave us great service, so he got a good tip. A tip can also be a helpful suggestion. The teacher told us to answer the easy questions first. That was a good tip. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 46 The thing is The thing is introduces an explanation for a situation. Why aren’t you ready for school? The thing is, I can’t find my backpack. How does that guy keep his job? The thing is, he’s a friend of the boss’s sister. He never does anything. A step in the right direction A step in the right direction refers to an action that will lead to success. I’m so glad you’ve decided to go to college. That’s definitely a step in the right direction. Be about to To be about to means to be going to do at that moment. I can’t talk anymore. We’re about to leave for the airport. Fasten your seat belt. The plane is about to take off. Which reminds me Which reminds me introduces new information that is remembered because of something that was just said. An alternative to this expression is speaking of which. I’m about to go shopping for Halloween costumes for the kids—which reminds me—do you still have the witch hat you borrowed from me last year? I heard that Brittany was in town. Speaking of which, did you know she was getting married? Have one’s fingers crossed To have one’s fingers crossed means to indicate strong desire or hope that something happens. I have my fingers crossed that we’ll win the game tonight. Pumped To be pumped means to be very excited and ready for an occasion or event. An alternative expression is all fired up. The whole team is really pumped about the game tomorrow. We’re ready to win. Bank on To bank on means to rely on, count on, or trust certain information. Do you think our candidate will You can bank on it. All the polls say he’s ahead. win the election? Splurge To splurge means to spend more money than necessary on something, because you really want it. She got a bonus at work, so she splurged on a first-class ticket. Why don’t we splurge and buy the beautiful sofa instead of the run-of-the-mill one? Striking up a conversation  47  Another expression that indicates spending a lot of money is go overboard. It was their anniversary, so they went overboard and stayed at a five-star resort. Get together To get together means to meet. They get together every week to discuss their research. Keep in touch To keep in touch means to continue to contact each other. They have kept in touch for more than thirty years. Catch up To catch up can mean to find out the news of a friend you haven’t seen in a while. Let’s get together for lunch tomorrow. We have a lot to catch up on! It can also mean to reach someone who is ahead of you. She’s running so fast, we can never catch up with her. Catch up can also mean to learn what the rest of the class learned when you weren’t at school. After being home sick for a week, Adrian had to work hard to catch up on his lessons. Get ahead of oneself To get ahead of oneself means to make plans based on something that may not happen. Another expression that has the same meaning is to count one’s chickens before they hatch. What? You just met him and you’re already planning what to name your children? Aren’t you getting ahead of yourself? You should never count your chickens before they hatch! Have a feeling To have a feeling about something is to think that it might be true or might happen. They’ve never met, but I have a feeling they might like each other. Make sure To make sure means to follow all of the steps that will lead to a desired outcome. Yes, you can take my car, but make sure you bring it back by four o’clock. Let someone know To let someone know means to tell a person information that he or she needs. I’m not sure I can pick you up. I’ll let you know as soon as I find out if my car is fixed. Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 48 Me, too Me, too is a way of saying that you agree with something positive that someone has said or that you have an activity in common with someone else. I really like living in Springfield. Me, too. I’m going home now. Me, too. Me, neither is used to express the same meanings after a negative statement. I really don’t like living in Springfield. Me, neither. I’m not going home yet. Me, neither. EXERCISE 4·1 Choose between There is and There are to complete the following sentences. 1. only twenty-eight days in February. 2. a lot of people in this city. 3. a big pothole in this street. 4. too many cars on the road. 5. too much traffic here. EXERCISE 4·2 Fill in each blank with the correct form of the indicated verb. 1. We’re not used to (live) in such a small space. 2. We used to (live) in a big house. 3. He’s fine now, but he used to (get) into trouble all the time. 4. She used to (smoke). I’m so glad she quit. 5. I can’t get used to (get) up so early. 6. I used to (stay) up late every night. 7. Are you used to (work) this hard? 8. I know that guy. He used to (go) to my school. 9. They are used to (be) cold in January. 10. It’s hard to get used to (drive) in traffic. Striking up a conversation  49  EXERCISE 4·3 Circle the word or words that best complete each of the following sentences. 1. Always your best. a. try to do c. trying on b. try doing d. trying out 2. I love these shoes. I’m going to. a. try buying them c. try them on b. try them out d. try 3. Before you buy any machine you should first. a. try buying it c. try it out b. try it on d. try it 4. You’re a very good driver! Thanks,. a. I try to. c. Try me. b. I try. d. I’m trying to. 5. I can’t get my finger to stop bleeding. a bandage on it. a. Try to put c. Try on b. Try out d. Try putting EXERCISE 4·4 Match the words or expressions in the first column with those in the second column that have a similar meaning. Note: There may be more than one match for each expression. 1. What a coincidence. a. before you know it 2. That’s a wise decision. b. Fancy meeting you here. 3. I’ll bet. c. for ages 4. I agree. d. get ahead of yourself 5. speaking of which e. I don’t think so. 6. hopefully f. I have my fingers crossed. 7. count your chickens before they hatch g. Me, neither. 8. soon h. No way! 9. for a long time i. Me, too. 10. I don’t agree. j. That’s a step in the right direction. k. What a surprise. l. which reminds me m. Wow! Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation 50  EXERCISE 4·5 Match the words or expressions in the first column with those in the second column that have a similar meaning. Note: There may be more than one match for each expression. 1. be hopeful a. be on the floor 2. be all fired up b. be on the job 3. be accustomed to c. be pumped 4. see if something fits d. be used to 5. test something e. catch up 6. be working f. get together 7. spend a lot g. go overboard 8. meet h. have a feeling 9. write, call, or text i. have your fingers crossed 10. make up missed work j. keep in touch 11. get news k. let someone know 12. suspect l. make sure 13. not forget to do m. splurge n. try it on o. try it out p. run into EXERCISE 4·6 Circle the most appropriate response to each question or remark. 1. What are you up to? a. I’m not used to wearing a suit. c. I’m pumped up. b. I used to try. d. I’m about to go on vacation. 2. I’m going back to school. a. Me, neither. c. Don’t get ahead of yourself. b. That’s a step in the d. Thanks for the tip. right direction. 3. Be sure to talk to my friend. He’s in charge of the program. a. Thanks for the tip! c. I’ll run into him. b. I’ll try it out. d. I’m on the job. Striking up a conversation  51  4. Fancy meeting you here. a. Yes, what a coincidence. c. Yes, it’s a fancy restaurant. b. I haven’t seen him for ages. d. It’s a run-of-the-mill restaurant. 5. It was great to see you again. a. I’ll catch up with you. c. Try to catch up. b. Be sure to keep in touch. d. You’re getting ahead of yourself. EXERCISE 4·7 Match each remark in the first column with all of the appropriate responses from the second column. 1. That was great service. a. I have my fingers crossed! 2. What’s up? b. I try! 3. This top is so trendy. c. I’ll catch up with him later. 4. I have a feeling she’s pregnant. d. I’ll keep in touch. 5. Let’s get together soon. e. Let me know how it goes. 6. I have a little extra money.