1,500+ ESL/EFL Conversations on 25 Topics

I. Small Talk XI. At the Bank XXI. Buying a House

II. College Life XII. Food XXII. Selling a House
III. At the Library XIII. At a Restaurant XXIII. In a New Neighborhood
IV. Transferring to a University XIV. Buying a Car XXIV. Crime
V. Socializing XV. Driving XXV. Voting
VI. Dating XVI. Health
VII. Renting an Apartment XVII. Employment
VIII. Taking the Bus XVIII. Unemployment
IX. Daily Life XIX. Travel
X. Shopping XX. At a Hotel

I. Small Talk II. College Life III. At the Library

1.Greetings
2.Weather (1)
3.Weather (2)
4.Weather (3)
5.Calling a Friend
6.Describing People
7.Expressing Concern for Someone
8.Expressing Joy at Someone's Success
9.Complimenting Someone's Clothes
10.Leisure Activities
11.Favorite Movie
12.Favorite Music
13.Sports
14.Invitation to a Movie
15.A Sick Classmate
16.Sharing News and Information
17.Changing the Subject
18.Receiving Visitors
19.Waiting for an Invitation
20.Accepting an Invitation to a Party
21.Declining an Invitation to a Party (1)
22.Declining an Invitation to a Party (2)
23.Ending a Conversation
24.Leave-Taking
IV. Transferring to a University
1. Transfer Plans
2. What College to Transfer to
3. Classes Taken for Transfer
4. Classes Needed for Transfer
5. Filling out a College Application
6. Registering for Classes Needed for
Transfer
7. Talking to a Counselor about
Transferring
8. Asking a Professor to Write a
1.Registering for a Class
2.Meeting New Students
3.Finding a Classroom
4.Buying Textbooks
5.Talking about a Professor
6.Making an Appointment with Your
Professor
7.Turning Homework in Late
8.Finding an Error in Your Test Score
9.Borrowing Class Notes
10.Grading Policy
11.Discussing Your Grades with Your
Professor
12.Talking to Professor about Being
Absent
13.Talking to Professor about Leaving
Early
14.Talking to a Counselor
15.Adding a Class
16.Date and Time of a Field Trip
17.Where to Buy Lunch
18.Using a Vending Machine
19.Getting a Library Card
20.Returning Overdue Books
21.Using a Parking Meter
22.Purchasing a Parking Permit
23.Parking at School
24.Fighting a Parking Ticket
V. Socializing
1.Going to a Party
2.Making Plans for the Weekend
3.Inviting a Friend to a Birthday Party
4.Inviting Boss to a Dinner Party
5.Accepting Invitation to a Party
6.Buying Flowers
1
1.Applying for a Library Card
2.Applying for a Passport
3.Asking Questions at the
Information Desk
4.Asking the Librarian for
Assistance
5.Reserving a Book
6.Late Fees
7.Borrowing a Book from
Another Library
8.Checking Out a Book
9.Checking Out a Magazine
10.Checking Out a Video
11.Paying for Damage Made to
a Book
12.Returning Books Late
13.Using a Computer
14.Using a Copier
VI. Dating
1.Dating Discussion
2. Asking for a Date (1)
3. Asking for a Date (2)
4. Meeting a Blind Date
5. Calling After the Date
6. An Argument
7. Rejecting an Invitation
8. Stopping the Relationship
Reference Letter
9. Not Accepted to a University
10. Deciding not to Transfer
11. Accepted to a University
12. Before Transferring to a New School
13. First Day at a New School
14. Transferring from another school
VII. Renting an Apartment
Part I
1.Scheduling an Apartment Viewing
2.A Broken Window
3.Asking about Public Transportation
4.Interviewing a Potential Roommate
5.Garbage Disposal
6.Security Deposit
7.Warning about Late Rent Payment
8.Checking Smoke Detectors
9.Mailbox Key Missing
10.Calling the Landlord about Moving
Out
Part II
1.Looking for an Apartment
2.Subleasing
3.Responding to an Ad for Roommates
4.Finding an Apartment
5.Asking about the Apartment Location
6.Asking about the Neighborhood
7.Asking about Safety Features
8.Asking about Floor Plan
9.Visiting a Rental Agent
10.Discrimination
11.Make an Appointment for an
Apartment Viewing
12.Talking about the Lease
13.Negotiating the Price (1)
14.Negotiating the Price (2)
15.Policy Towards Pets
16.Checking the Apartment for Anything
Damaged
17.Asking a Friend to Help Move In
18.Calling a Moving Company
19.Calling the Water Company
20.Where to Put the Furniture
21.Greeting a Neighbor
22.Prohibited Parking
23.Trash and Recycling
24.Laundry Room Rules and Hours
25.Neighbors and Help
26.Visitors and Extra Tenants
27.Locked Out
28.Noisy Neighbors
7.Choosing a Gift
8.Greeting a Visitor
9.Greeting an Old Friend
10.Accepting Food or Drinks
11.Declining Food or Drinks
12.Gossiping
13.Wedding Discussion
14.Going to the Beach
VIII. Taking the Bus
1. Asking about Where to Get Off
2. Asking for a Transfer
3. Complaining about a Late Bus
4. Getting Off Too Early
5. How to Buy a Pass
6. Missing the Bus Stop
7. On a Wrong Bus
8. Student Discount
9. Talking to Someone on a Bus
10. The Bus System in LA
11. Where to Buy a Pass
12. Where to Take the Bus
13. Where to Change the Bus
14. Which Bus to Take
15. Why to Buy a Pass
2
IX. Daily Life
1.Calling Credit Card Company
2.Disputing a Charge
3.Ordering Cable Services
4.Inquiring About Internet
Services
5.Installing High Speed Internet
6.Reporting an Internet
Problem
7.Asking for Credit for Service
Interrupted
8.Troubleshooting a Computer
Problem
9.Making an Appointment to
Have a Haircut
10.Making Requests to the
Hairdresser
11.Paying the Hairdresser
12.Complaining to the
Hairdresser
13.Talking to People at the
Laundromat
14.Operating the Washer and
Dryer
15.Returning a Call to Child's
Teacher at School
16.Meeting Child's Teacher at
School
17.Asking Someone to Run
Errands
18.Riding the Bus
19.Talking with Angry Parent
20.Cleaning Up the Room
21.Buying a Burrito
22.Caring for Puppies
23.Cooking Dinner
24.Washing Clothes
25.Time for Bed
26.Waking Up for School
29.Asking the Neighbor Not to Make
Noise XI. At the Bank
30.Poor Area Lighting
1.Setting up a Bank Account XII. Food
31.Recreation Area Problems
2.Asking about Checks 1.Breakfast
32.Fumigation and Relocation for a
3.Making a Deposit 2.Lunch
Night
4.Making a Withdrawal 3.Dinner
33.Key and Lock Problems
5.A Check Bounces 4.Drinks
34.Calling the Landlord to Report a Leak
6.Transferring Money 5.Fruit
35.Roof Leaking
7.Canceling an Account 6.Salads
36.Plumbing 8.Cashing a Check 7.Desserts
37.Threatening not to Rent 9.Canceling a Check 8.Meat
38.Poor Upkeep 10.Using the ATM 9.Snacks
39.Asking the Landlord about Fixing a 11.The Card Gets Declined 10.Vegetables
Problem 12.Asking about Fees 11.Nutrition of Foods
40.Explaining the Problem to the 13.Paying Fees 12.Foods Available at the
Plumber
14.Minimum Balance Requirement Cafeteria (1)
41.Calling the Police about a Burglary
15.Not Getting a Bank Statement 13.Foods Available at the
42.Talking about Apartment Upgrades
16.Reporting Wrong Charges Cafeteria (2)
43.Moving Out
17.Opening Another Account 14.Ordering Food at the
44.Eviction Notice
Cafeteria (1)
45.Getting the Deposit Back
15.Ordering Food at the
X. Shopping Cafeteria (2)
Part I
16.Where to Buy Food
1.Talking to Someone about a Sweater
17.Making a Shopping List
2.Shopping for a Sweater
18.Buying Meat
3.After Trying on the Sweater
19.Comparing Foods from
4.Returning a Radio (1)
Different Stores
5.Returning a Radio (2)
20.Finding Foods in the
6.Exchanging a DVD Player Supermarket
7.Exchanging a DVD
21.How to Cook a Meal
8.Looking for a Perfect Gift (1)
9.Looking for a Perfect Gift (2)
10.Applying for a Credit Card (1)
11.Applying for a Credit Card (2)
12.The Sale Is Over
13.Misleading Advertisement
14.Exchanging a Dress
15.Buying Flowers
16.Going to an Antique Shop
17.Buying a Pan
18.Grocery Shopping (1)
19.Grocery Shopping (2)
20.Buying Business Cards
21.Flea Markets
Part II
1.Asking about a Furniture Set
2.Buying a Refrigerator
3.Calling to Reschedule a Time
4.Shopping Budget
5.Getting Things Fixed
6.Making a Shopping List
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7.Negotiating a Price
8.Not Delivered on Time
9.Returning a Defective Item
10.Scheduling a Delivery
11.Shopping for New Clothes
12.Trying on a New Outfit
13.Warranty Expired
14.Where to Buy What
XIII. At a Restaurant
1.Choosing a Good Restaurant
2.Making a Reservation
3.Being Seated at the Restaurant
4.Ordering Food and Drinks
5.Ordering Appetizers
6.Ordering Main Entree
7.Ordering Drinks
8.Ordering Dessert
9.A Mistake by the Waitress
10.Making Positive Comments on Food
11.Making Negative Comments on Food
12.Good Tips for Good Service
13.Little Tips for Bad Service
14.Talking Positvely About the
Restaurant
15.Talking Negatively About the
Restaurant
16.Ordering Fast Food
XVI. Health
1.Health Insurance
2.A Medical Emergency
3.Going to an Emergency Room
4.A Stomachache
5.A Toothache
6.Buying Over-the-Counter Medicine
7.Filling Prescription
8.Calling about Test Results
9.Calling in Sick
10.Missing Classes
11.Discussing Test Results
12.Changing an Appointment Time
13.Going Home Early Because Of Being
Ill
14.Having a Blood Test in the Lab
15.Having a Cold
16.Making a Doctor's Appointment
17.Blood Pressure
18.Not Feeling Well
19.Physical Check-up
20.Seeing a Doctor in an Emergency
21.Taking an X-Ray
22.Seeing the Doctor
XIV. Buying a Car
1. Asking a Friend About Car Insurance
2. Buying Insurance
3. Deciding to Buy the Car
4. Declining to Buy the Car
5. Detecting a Problem with the Car
6. How to Pay for the Used Car
7. Making an Appointment with the
DMV
8. Negotiating a Price with a Student
9. Negotiating a Price with a Dealer
10. Test Driving the Car
11. Title Transfer
12. Where to Buy a Used Car
13. At the Window of the DMV
XVII. Employment
1.How to Find a Job
2.Preparing for a Job Interview
3.Greeting by Receptionist
4.Job Interview (1)
5.Job Interview (2)
6.Asking Questions at an Interview
7.Accepting a Job Offer
8.Talking on the Phone
9.Making a Request for Office Supplies
10.Offering Help
11.Asking for Help
12.Responding to a Plea for Help
13.How to Do a Timesheet
14.Making a Phone Call
15.Making an Appointment for a
Meeting
16.Rearranging an Appointment
17.Giving an Excuse for Being Late to
Work
18.Accepting Excuses for Not Meeting
Commitments
19.Asking for a Description of a Person
20.Asking for Permission
21.Agreement and Disagreement
22.Certainty and Uncertainty
23.Likes and Dislikes
24.Making Promises
4
XV. Driving
1. Applying For a Driving Permit
2. Taking the Written Test
3. Learning How to Drive (1)
4. Learning How to Drive (2)
5. Failing the Road Test
6. Passing the Road Test
7. Getting the Driver's License
8. Asking Where to Park on
Campus
9. Getting a Parking Ticket
10. Paying Off Parking Tickets
11. Failing to Stop at a Stop
Sign
12. Driving Through a Red Light
13. Fighting a Ticket in Court
(1)
14. Fighting a Ticket in Court
(2)
15. Paying the Ticket Fine
16. Calling a Traffic School to
Make an Appointment
17. Talking to the Traffic School
Instructor
18. A Traffic Incident
19. A Car Accident
20. Calling the Insurance
Company
XVIII. Unemployment
1.Collecting Unemployment
Benefits
2.Forms to Fill Out
3.Questions about the Forms
4.EDD Office
5.Payment Not Received
6.Reduced Payment
7.Looking for Jobs at EDD
8.Talking to People at EDD
9.Attending a Workshop at EDD
10.How to Go to an Interview
11.Finding a Job
23.Talking to the Doctor about
Problems
24.Taking a Urine Sample
25.How to Stay Healthy
26.Prescribing Medicine
XIX. Travel
1.Visiting a Travel Agent
2.Making a Plane Reservation
3.Booking a Flight Online
4.Buying a Plane Ticket
5.Making a Hotel Reservation
6.Getting a Passport
7.Luggage Limits
8.Carry-on Luggage
9.Dropping Off at the Airport
10.Picking Up at the Airport
11.Going through the Customs
12.Talking to a Curbside Agent
13.Talking to a Flight Attendant
14.Talking to a Seatmate
15.Ordering Food and Drink
16.Missing Connecting Flight
17.Ground Transportation
18.Arranging a Tour of the City
19.Complaining about a Tour
20.Sightseeing
21.Making Alternate Plans
22.Shopping for Souvenirs
23.Trying to Find a Doctor
24.Losing the Wallet and Passport
25.Being Cautious in a Big City
26.Local Customs
27.Shuttle Bus at the Airport
28.Arriving Home
XXII. Selling a House
1.First Appointment with Realtor
2.Marketing the House
3.Setting an Asking Price
4.Signing Contract With Realtor
5.Home Security During Listing
6.Fixing Up the Interior
7.Fixing Up the Exterior
8.Preparing for an Open House
9.Accepting an Offer
10.Counteroffer
11.Accepting a Counteroffer
12.Rejecting a Counteroffer
13.Deciding Which Offer to Accept
14.Deciding Whether to Carry Part of a
Loan
14.Deed Transfer
XX. At a Hotel
1.Calling to Get a Reservation
2.Checking into the Hotel
3.Requesting a Wake-up Call
4.Asking the Concierge for Sightseeing
Advice
5.Asking the Concierge for Restaurant
Advice
6.Talking to Room Service
7.Calling to Report a Cockroach
Problem (1)
8.Calling to Report a Cockroach
Problem (2)
9.Asking about the Hotel Gym
10.Asking for More Amenities
11.Asking Where to Make a Copy
12.Calling to Report a Medical
Emergency
13.Calling for a Wireless Connection
14.Requesting More Supplies for the
Minibar
15.Asking about the Swimming Pool
16.Getting a Taxi via the Front Desk
17.Checking Out
18.Disputing the Bill
19.Storing Luggage for a Few Hours
20.To Hold a Parcel for Pick-up
21.Calling to Cancel a Reservation
XXIII. In a New Neighborhood
1. What to Do in the Neighborhood
2. Meeting New People
3. To Have a Better Life
4. Where to Find a Church
5. Where to Find a Movie Theater
6. Where to Find Places to Eat
7. Where is the Nearest Mall
8. Looking for the Library
9. Searching for a Book in the Library
10. Hailing a Cab
11. Taking a Walk around a Park
12. Playing with Kids at the Park
13. Enrolling a Child in a New School
5
XXI. Buying a House
1.First Meeting with a Realtor
2.Pre-Qualifying for a Loan
3.Setting up an Appointment to
View Houses
4.Viewing Houses with a
Realtor
5.Not Liking the Houses
6.Making an Offer through a
Realtor
7.Discussing Counter-Offer with
a Realtor
8.Re-offering and Acceptance
9.Going to an Open House with
a Friend
10.Discussing Home Inspection
with an Inspector
11.Signing Escrow Papers
12.Discussing Details of Moving
in
XXIV. Crime
1. Discussing a News Report on
a Crime
2. Discussing a Robbery
3. Being Robbed
4. Reporting a Break-in
5. Witnessing a Robbery
6. Picking a Suspect out of a
Line-up
7. Answering Questions of the
Police
8. Being Arrested
9. Being Pulled Over
10. Pleading Not Guilty in Court
11. Being Set Free
12. Discussing a Lawsuit
against the Police
13. Talking to a Lawyer
14. Filing a Complaint at the
Police Station
15.Preparing to Move Out
16.Moving Day
XXV. Voting
1.Election Day
2.Election System
3.Polling Place
4.Absentee Ballot
5.Speaking Negatively about the
Candidate
6.Speaking Positively about the
Candidate
7.Fundraising for Campaigns
8.Volunteering for Campaigns
9.Working at the Polling Place
10.Asking Questions at the Polling Place
11.Meeting Candidate before Voting
12.Interviewing a Voter
13.Excitement after Voting
14.Discussing Who You Voted For
15.Disappointed at the Result
16.Happy with the Result
17.Comments on the New President

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 I. Small Talk 2. Weather (1)
1. Greetings 1
1 A: It's an ugly day today.
A: Hi, how are you doing? B: I know. I think it may rain.
B: I'm fine. How about yourself? A: It's the middle of summer, it shouldn't rain today.
A: I'm pretty good. Thanks for asking. B: That would be weird.
B: No problem. So how have you been? A: Yeah, especially since it's ninety degrees outside.
A: I've been great. What about you? B: I know, it would be horrible if it rained and it was hot
B: I've been good. I'm in school right now. outside.
A: What school do you go to? A: Yes, it would be.
B: I go to PCC. B: I really wish it wasn't so hot every day.
A: Do you like it there? A: Me too. I can't wait until winter.
B: It's okay. It's a really big campus. B: I like winter too, but sometimes it gets too cold.
A: Good luck with school. A: I'd rather be cold than hot.
B: Thank you very much. B: Me too.
2 2
A: How's it going? A: It doesn't look very nice outside today.
B: I'm doing well. How about you? B: You're right. I think it's going to rain later.
A: Never better, thanks. A: In the middle of the summer, it shouldn't be raining.
B: So how have you been lately? B: That wouldn't seem right.
A: I've actually been pretty good. You? A: Considering that it's over ninety degrees outside, that
B: I'm actually in school right now. would be weird.
A: Which school do you attend? B: Exactly, it wouldn't be nice if it started raining. It's too
B: I'm attending PCC right now. hot.
A: Are you enjoying it there? A: I know, you're absolutely right.
B: It's not bad. There are a lot of people there. B: I wish it would cool off one day.
A: Good luck with that. A: That's how I feel, I want winter to come soon.
B: Thanks. B: I enjoy the winter, but it gets really cold sometimes.
3 A: I know what you mean, but I'd rather be cold than
A: How are you doing today? hot.
B: I'm doing great. What about you? B: That's exactly how I feel.
A: I'm absolutely lovely, thank you. 3
B: Everything's been good with you? A: I wish it was a nicer day today.
A: I haven't been better. How about yourself? B: That is true. I hope it doesn't rain.
B: I started school recently. A: It wouldn't rain in the middle of the summer.
A: Where are you going to school? B: It wouldn't seem right if it started raining right now.
B: I'm going to PCC. A: It would be weird if it started raining in ninety degree
A: How do you like it so far? weather.
B: I like it so far. My classes are pretty good right now. B: Any rain right now would be pointless.
A: I wish you luck. A: That's right, it really would be.
B: Thanks a lot. B: I want it to cool down some.
3. Weather (2) A: I know what you mean, I can't wait until it's winter.
1 B: Winter is great. I wish it didn't get so cold sometimes
A: It's such a nice day. though.
B: Yes, it is. A: I would rather deal with the winter than the summer.
A: It looks like it may rain soon. B: I feel the same way.
B: Yes, and I hope that it does. 4. Weather (3)
A: Why is that? 1
B: I really love how rain clears the air. A: I really want to go to the beach this weekend.
A: Me too. It always smells so fresh after it rains. B: That sounds like fun. What's the weather going to be
B: Yes, but I love the night air after it rains. like?
A: Really? Why is it? A: I heard that it's going to be warm this weekend.
B: Because you can see the stars perfectly. B: Is it going to be perfect beach weather?
A: I really hope it rains today. A: I believe so.

7
B: Yeah, me too.
2 A: I know. I really want to go to the beach.
A: Isn't it a nice day?
B: It really is.
A: It seems that it may rain today.
B: Hopefully it will.
A: How come?
B: I like how clear the sky gets after it rains.
A: I feel the same way. It smells so good after it rains.
B: I especially love the night air when it rains.
A: Really? Why?
B: The stars look so much closer after it rains.
A: I really want it to rain today.
B: Yeah, so do I.
3 A: The forecast says that it will be warm on the
A: Don't you think it's nice out?
B: Yes, I think so too.
A: I think that it's going to rain.
B: I hope that it does rain.
A: You like the rain?
B: The sky looks so clean after it rains. I love it.
A: I understand. Rain does make it smell cleaner.
B: I love most how it is at night after it rains.
A: How come?
B: You can see the stars so much more clearly after it
rains.
A: I would love for it to rain today.
B: I would too.
5. Calling a Friend
1 weekend.
A: Hello, may I speak to Alice please?
B: This is she. How's it going?
A: I've been trying to call you all day.
B: Sorry about that. I was cleaning up.
A: It's okay.
B: So what were you calling me about?
A: Oh, I just wanted to see if you wanted to hang out
tomorrow.
B: Sure, what did you want to do?
A: Maybe we can go see a movie or something.
B: That sounds like fun. Let's do it.
A: I'll see you tomorrow then.
B: See you then. Goodbye.
2 weather's going to be like.
A: Hi, how are you. Is Alice there?
B: Speaking. What's up?
A: Why haven't you answered the phone?
B: My bad, I had chores to do.
A: That's all right.
B: What was the reason for your call?
A: I want to do something tomorrow with you.
B: Sounds good. What did you have in mind?
A: I was thinking about seeing a movie.
B: Okay, let's go see a movie.
8
B: Good. I hope it doesn't cool off this weekend.
B: But you know that California weather is really
unpredictable.
A: You're right. One minute it's hot, and then the next
minute it's cold.
B: I really wish the weather would just stay the same.
A: I do too. That way we can have our activities planned
ahead of time.
B: Yeah, that would make things a lot easier.
2
A: I would like to take a trip to the beach this weekend.
B: A trip to the beach would be fun. How is the weather
going to be?
weekend.
B: So do you think it'll be perfect weather for the beach?
A: It sounds like it will be.
B: I really hope it doesn't get cold.
A: That would ruin things, I want to go so badly.
B: The weather in California is unpredictable, so you
never know.
A: That is true. The weather is constantly changing.
B: It would be nice if the weather would never change.
A: That would be great, then we could plan things
sooner.
B: True. Predictable weather would make life easier.
3
A: It would be nice to go to the beach sometime this
B: What's the weather going to be like? I may want to go
too.
A: The weather this weekend is supposed to be warm.
B: Will it be good beach weather?
A: I think it will be.
B: It wouldn't be good if it got cold this weekend.
A: I want this trip to be perfect, I hope it stays warm.
B: This California weather is so uncertain, it's impossible
to know what'll happen.
A: I know. Every day the weather seems different.
B: I would love it if it wasn't always so unpredictable.
A: That would make it easier for us to make plans.
B: I know. Things are easier when you know what the
6. Describing People
1
A: Have you seen the new girl in school?
B: No, I haven't.
A: She's really pretty.
B: Describe her to me.
A: She's not too tall.
B: Well, how tall is she?
A: She's about five feet even.
B: What does she look like, though?
A: Until then. A: She has pretty light brown eyes.
B: Talk to you later. B: I may know which girl you're talking about.
3 A: So you have seen her around?
A: Is Alice available? B: Yes, I have.
B: You're talking to her. 2
A: I've called you a hundred times today. A: There's a new girl in school, have you seen her yet?
B: I was busy doing something. I apologize. B: I haven't seen her yet.
A: No problem. A: I think that she is very pretty.
B: Did you need something? B: Tell me how she looks.
A: Did you want to do something tomorrow? A: She's kind of short.
B: Is there somewhere special you wanted to go? B: What height is she?
A: How about a movie? A: She's probably about five feet.
B: A movie sounds good. B: That's nice, but tell me what she looks like.
A: Call me tomorrow then. A: The first thing I noticed was her beautiful brown eyes.
B: I will see you tomorrow. B: I think I might've bumped into her before.
7. Expressing Concern for Someone A: Are you telling me that you've seen her before?
1 B: I believe so.
A: Why weren't you at school yesterday? 3
B: I wasn't really feeling well. A: Have you met the new girl?
A: What was wrong with you? B: No. Have you?
B: My stomach was upset. A: She's one of the prettiest girls at the school.
A: Do you feel better now? B: What does she look like?
B: I don't really feel too well yet. A: Well, she's quite short.
A: Do you want anything to make you feel better? B: How tall would you say that she is?
B: No, thanks. I already took some medicine. A: I would say she's only five feet.
A: I hope you feel better. B: What about her facial features?
B: Thank you. A: She has light brown eyes, absolutely beautiful.
2 B: I think I know who you're talking about.
A: What reason do you have for missing school? A: Have you seen her?
B: I was sick. B: I think that I have
A: How were you sick? 8. Expressing Joy at Someone's Success
B: I had a stomachache. 1
A: Did it get any better? A: Did you hear the good news?
B: I'm still feeling under the weather. B: No, I haven't.
A: Would you like anything for your stomach? A: I got a promotion at my job.
B: I took something earlier. B: Did you really?
A: Get better. A: Seriously, I am so excited.
B: Thanks a lot. B: Well, congratulations.
3 A: Thank you.
A: Why didn't you go to school yesterday? B: I'm so happy for you.
B: I stayed home because I wasn't feeling well. A: Really?
A: What was your problem? B: Yes. You really deserved this.
B: My stomach was bothering me. A: You think so?
A: Are you feeling any better? B: Yes. Good for you.
B: I'm still feeling a little sick. 2
A: I'm going to the store, would you like any Pepto A: Have you heard my good news?
Bismol? B: You haven't told me anything yet.
B: That's okay. A: I got a promotion at work earlier this week.
A: I hope you feel better. B: Is that right?
B: I'd appreciate that. A: It's the truth. I am really happy.
9. Complimenting Someone's Clothes B: Congratulations on your promotion.
1 A: Thank you very much.
A: You look really nice today. B: I am really excited for you.
B: Thank you. I just got this outfit the other day. A: Are you really?

9
A: Really, where did you get it?
B: I got it from Macy's.
A: It's really nice.
B: Thanks again. You look nice today, too.
A: Thank you. I just got these shoes today.
B: Really? What kind of shoes are they?
A: These are called All Star Chuck Taylors.
B: I really like those. How much did they cost?
A: They were about forty dollars.
B: I think I'm going to go buy myself a pair.
2 A: I appreciate that.
A: I absolutely love what you're wearing today.
B: You do? I just bought this outfit a couple days ago.
A: Seriously, it looks really nice on you. Where did you
buy it from?
B: I bought it from the Macy's at the Santa Anita mall.
A: I really like that outfit.
B: Thanks. I think you look nice today, too.
A: Thank you. I just bought these new shoes earlier
today.
B: Those are nice. What are they?
A: These are some Chucks.
B: Those are great. How much were they?
A: I got them for forty.
B: I think I might go and find me my own pair of Chucks.
3 A: I see that you're pretty talented.
A: I think that you look very cute today.
B: Is that right? This is a brand new outfit.
A: What store did you get it from?
B: I went to Macy's and picked it out.
A: I love your outfit right now.
B: Well, I think you look nice today too.
A: Thanks. I found these new shoes earlier at the store.
B: I think that those are some really nice shoes. What
kind are they?
A: These are Chucks.
B: Your shoes look really nice. How much did you get
them for?
A: They only cost me about forty dollars.
B: I'm going to go get a pair for myself.
11. Favorite Movie
1 B: You have a talent. You just don't know what it is yet.
A: What's your favorite movie?
B: My favorite movie is Superbad.
A: Oh, why is that?
B: It's the funniest movie that I've ever seen.
A: That's true. It is a very funny movie.
B: You've seen it before?
A: Yes, I saw that movie the first day it came out in
theaters.
B: Didn't you laugh through the whole movie? I did.
A: Me too. That movie brought tears to my eyes.
B: Mine too.
A: I have it on DVD at my house if you want to come
10
B: I'm serious. You deserved this promotion.
A: Is that what you really think?
B: Yes, I do.
3
A: I haven't told you what happened yet, have I?
B: I haven't heard anything.
A: My boss offered me a promotion, and I took it.
B: Are you serious?
A: Yes, I am really excited.
B: That's great. Congratulations.
B: You have no idea how happy I am for you.
A: For real?
B: I believe you were the best choice for that promotion.
I really do.
10. Leisure Activities
1
A: Tell me, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
B: I enjoy drawing and painting.
A: You know how to draw and paint?
B: Yes, I do.
A: When did you learn how to do that?
B: I learned back in high school.
A: Oh, so you took an art class?
B: Yeah, I loved that class.
B: Thank you very much.
A: I wish I had a talent like that.
B: I'm sure you have a talent. It's just hidden.
2
A: What kinds of things do you like to do?
B: I've always liked to draw and paint.
A: I didn't know you knew how to draw and paint.
B: I do it every once in a while.
A: How long have you known how to do that?
B: I first learned how to do it in high school.
A: Did you take some sort of art class or something?
B: That was my favorite class.
A: You have got to be talented.
B: Thanks.
A: If only I was talented.
3
A: Are there any hobbies you do?
B: When I have time, I sometimes draw and paint.
A: Oh, you actually do that?
B: Every so often, I do.
A: Did you always know how to draw and paint?
B: I was taught in high school how to draw and paint.
A: You had an art class?
B: Exactly, it was my favorite class.
A: Well, it's good that you're so talented.
B: I appreciate that.
A: Talent is a great thing, I wish I had one.
over and watch it.
B: Sure, let's go.
2 1
A: Which movie is your favorite to watch?
B: I have to say, my favorite movie is Superbad.
A: Is that right? Why?
B: Honestly, it is one of the funniest movies I've seen in a
long time.
A: You're right. That movie is hilarious.
B: I didn't think you saw that movie.
A: I went to see it the day it came out.
B: I was laughing through the whole movie.
A: I couldn't help laughing, either.
B: Same here.
A: I bought the movie. Would you like to come to my
house and watch it?
B: Of course.
3 B: I like the kinds of instruments that they use.
A: Out of every movie that you've seen, which one is
your favorite?
B: I'm going to have to say that Superbad is the best
movie ever.
A: You think so, how come?
B: Well, Superbad is super funny.
A: You're not lying, I found that movie absolutely
hilarious.
B: I didn't know that you saw Superbad before.
A: I made sure to be in line to see it the first day it came
out.
B: I couldn't keep from laughing throughout the whole
movie.
A: I was laughing hysterically the whole time; my
stomach muscles hurt afterwards.
B: That's exactly how I felt.
A: I got the movie when it came out on DVD, do you
want to come over?
B: I would love to.
13. Sports
1 B: I'm not sure yet. Is there something you want to see?
A: Did you go to the basketball game on Friday?
B: No, I couldn't make it.
A: You missed a really good game.
B: Oh, really? Who won?
A: Our school did. They played really well.
B: Too bad I was busy. I really wanted to go.
A: Yeah, you should have. It was really exciting.
B: So what was the score?
A: The score was 101-98.
B: Man, that was a really close game.
A: That's what made it so great.
B: I'll make sure and make it to the next one.
2 B: I don't know, but was there a certain movie you
A: Were you able to attend Friday night's basketball
game?
11
B: Everyone has a talent. They just need to find it.
12. Favorite Music
A: What type of music do you like to listen to?
B: I like listening to different kinds of music.
A: Like what, for instance?
B: I enjoy Rock and R&B.
A: Why is that?
B: I like the different instruments that they use.
A: That's a good reason to like something.
B: Yeah, I think so too.
2
A: What kind of music do you enjoy listening to?
B: I enjoy listening to all kinds of music.
A: What kind?
B: I like to listen to Rock and R&B.
A: Why do you like that type of music?
A: I think that's an excellent reason to like something.
B: Thanks, I feel the same way.
3
A: What is your favorite kind of music?
B: I listen to various types of music.
A: What genres?
B: I enjoy listening to both Rock and R&B.
A: What interests you in that type of music?
B: I enjoy the different types of instruments that they
use.
A: That is a perfect reason to like a certain kind of music.
B: That's exactly what I think too.
14. Invitation to a Movie
1
A: What are you doing this weekend?
B: I'm going to the movies with a friend. How about
you?
A: I'm not sure yet.
B: Well, did you want to go see a movie with me?
A: What movie are you going to see?
A: There's nothing I can think of.
B: So, did you want to go?
A: No, thanks, maybe another time.
B: Okay, sounds good.
2
A: Do you know what you're going to do this weekend?
B: I am going to see a movie with a friend of mine. What
about you?
A: I don't know.
B: Would you like to see a movie with me and my
friend?
A: Do you know what movie you're going to watch?
wanted to see?
A: None that I can think of.
B: I was unable to make it. B: Well, would you like to go?
A: You should have been there. It was intense. A: Thank you for inviting me, but I think I'll pass.
B: Is that right. Who ended up winning? B: All right. Another time then.
A: Our team was victorious. 3
B: I wish I was free that night. I'm kind of mad that I A: You have any ideas as to what you want to do this
didn't go. weekend?
A: It was a great game. B: I'm going to the movie theater with my friend. What
B: What was the score at the end of the game? are you going to do?
A: Our team won 101-98. A: I'm not quite sure yet.
B: Sounds like it was a close game. B: How about you see a movie with me and my friend?
A: That's the reason it was such a great game. A: What movie are you and your friend planning on
B: The next game, I will definitely be there. watching?
3 B: Not sure. Is there a movie out that catches your eye?
A: I was meaning to ask you if you saw the basketball A: No good movies come to mind.
game on Friday. B: Have you decided whether or not you would like to
B: I wanted to go, but I couldn't. go?
A: It was a great game. A: No, thanks. Maybe another time.
B: It's too bad that I couldn't make it. Who won? B: For sure another day.
A: Our team played hard and won. 16. Sharing News and Information
B: I really wish I went to the game. 1
A: It was the best game ever. A: Did you hear the news?
B: So tell me the final score. B: What happened?
A: The other team lost by three points, 101-98. A: Our cousin went into labor and had her baby last
B: It must've been a close game. week.
A: It really was. You should've gone. B: She did? Why didn't anyone tell me?
B: Hopefully, I'll make it to the next one. A: I would've thought that somebody would have told
15. A Sick Classmate you.
1 B: No, I had no idea.
A: Did you go to school today? A: Well, she did, her baby was 8 pounds 6 ounces.
B: Yeah, I went to school today. Were you there? B: Oh my God, that's great!
A: No, I didn't go, I've been sick. A: Are you going to go and visit her and the baby?
B: That sucks. Did you want the assignments from B: I think that I might.
English class? A: Good! I just thought I'd let you know.
A: That would be nice, thank you. B: Thanks for telling me.
B: No problem, you're welcome. 2
A: I will be glad to do the same for you when you're sick. A: Have you heard what happened?
B: Well, thank you. I hope to see you at school B: Heard what?
tomorrow. A: Debrah already had her baby.
2 B: I didn't know that.
A: Have you attended school today? A: I thought you knew.
B: I attended school today. Did you? B: I honestly didn't know.
A: I wasn't able to attend school because I was feeling ill. A: The baby was 8 pounds 6 ounces.
B: I'm sorry to hear that. Would you like the assignments B: That's good to hear.
from English class? A: Will you go and visit them?
A: I would really appreciate that, thanks. B: Of course I will.
B: It's no trouble at all. A: I just wanted to give you the good news.
A: If you get sick, I'll return the favor. B: Thanks for letting me know.
B: Thanks. See you at school tomorrow if you feel better. 3
3 A: Have you heard the news?
A: Have you gone to school today? B: I haven't heard anything.
B: I went to school today. Did you go to school? A: Debrah had her baby last week.
A: I couldn't go to school today, I was sick. B: Nobody told me.
B: That's horrible. I'd be happy to give you the A: I thought you heard.
assignments from English class. B: I really wasn't told anything.

12
A: Thank you very much, that's kind of you.
B: Don't mention it.
A: When you miss a day of school, I'll be happy to give
you the English assignments.
B: That is greatly appreciated and I hope you feel well
enough to go to school tomorrow.
17. Changing the Subject
1 1
A: Did you go to school today?
B: Of course. Did you?
A: I didn't want to, so I didn't.
B: That's sad, but have you gone to the movies recently?
A: That's a switch.
B: I'm serious, have you?
A: No, I haven't. Why?
B: I really want to go to the movies this weekend.
A: So go then.
B: I really don't want to go by myself.
A: Well anyway, do you plan on going to school
tomorrow?
B: No, I think I'm going to go to the movies.
2 B: I am too.
A: Did you make it to school today?
B: I always do. Did you go to school today?
A: No, I didn't.
B: You should have, but have you seen any movies
lately?
A: That was an odd change of subject.
B: Maybe it was, but answer the question.
A: No, not recently.
B: I want to go to see a movie this weekend.
A: What's stopping you then?
B: I don't want to go alone.
A: So, will you be at school tomorrow?
B: No, I want to go to the movies instead.
3 3
A: Did you even bother to go to school today?
B: Yeah, I went. Did you go?
A: No, I didn't feel like it.
B: That's nice, have you been to the movies lately?
A: No, but that was a random change of subject.
B: It may have been random, but have you?
A: I haven't lately.
B: I would love to catch a movie this weekend.
A: So then, why don't you just go?
B: I don't want to see a movie by myself.
A: Okay, so are you going to school tomorrow?
B: I think I might just go to the movies.
19. Waiting for an Invitation
1 1
A: Hey, did you hear about Jessica's party this weekend?
B: Yeah, but I'm still waiting for my invitation.
A: Oh really? She gave me mine earlier today.
B: Well, she'll probably just give me my invitation later
13
A: She was a cute 8 pounds 6 ounces.
B: Wow, how exciting.
A: I know, you should really go and see her and the baby.
B: Of course I will.
A: I just wanted to let you know what happened.
B: I appreciate that.
18. Receiving Visitors
A: Thanks for coming to see me today.
B: It's no problem. I was really missing you anyway.
A: I missed you too.
B: Why haven't you tried to come see me then?
A: I've been really busy.
B: Doing what?
A: Working.
B: I would've come to see you sooner, but I've been busy
too.
A: What have you been doing?
B: I've been working too.
A: Well regardless, I'm very happy that you came to see
me.
2
A: I'm really glad that you came to see me.
B: I had to. I was missing you a lot.
A: I was missing you too.
B: So, why haven't you visited me?
A: I've actually been busy lately.
B: What have you been doing?
A: I've just been working really hard.
B: I've also been busy.
A: Tell me what you've been doing.
B: Basically, I've been working too.
A: Well whatever, I'm glad you came.
B: So am I.
A: I'm really happy that you came to visit me.
B: I really missed you a lot.
A: I've been missing you like crazy.
B: I don't understand why you haven't come to visit me.
A: Lately, I've been quite busy.
B: Tell me what you've been up to.
A: I've really been working a lot lately.
B: I've been pretty busy myself.
A: So what have you been up to?
B: I've just been working a lot.
A: Whatever the reason may be, I'm glad you visited me.
B: I'm glad I did too.
20. Accepting an Invitation to a Party
A: Hey, what's up?
B: Nothing really.
A: I'm throwing a party on Friday.
B: I didn't realize that.
on today. A: You didn't?
A: Yeah, so are you planning on going? B: Nobody has told me anything about your party.
B: I think so. It sounds like it's going to be a lot of fun. A: Did you want to go?
A: It really does, I can't wait. B: When does it start?
B: What time does the party start? A: At 8:00 p.m.
A: It starts at 8 o'clock. B: I'll be there.
B: Oh, well, how many people has she given invites to so A: I'd better see you there.
far? B: Of course.
A: I'm not sure, but I don't think she's given out that 2
many. A: What's going on with you?
B: Well, hopefully she'll give me my invite later on today. B: Fine. What's going on with you?
2 A: I'm having a party this Friday.
A: Have you heard about Jessica's party on Saturday? B: I had no idea.
B: I've heard about it, but I'm still waiting for my A: Is that right?
invitation. B: I didn't hear anything about it.
A: Really? I got mine from her this morning. A: Can you go?
B: I'm guessing that she's going to give me my invite B: What time?
today or tomorrow. A: It starts at 8 o'clock.
A: You're probably right, do you intend on going to the B: I'll go.
party? A: I hope that I'll see you there.
B: I want to. I heard it's going to be really fun. B: No doubt.
A: I know, it does sound pretty awesome. 3
B: Well, when does the party start? A: What's going on?
A: It's supposed to start at about eight. B: Not much.
B: How many invitations has she given out? A: This Friday, I'm throwing a party.
A: I really don't know, but I don't think she gave out that B: Oh really? I didn't know that.
many yet. A: Are you serious?
B: I really want to go, so I hope that she gives me my B: I haven't heard anything about it.
invite soon. A: Can you make it?
3 B: What time does it start?
A: Has anyone told you about Jessica's party coming up? A: The party starts at 8.
B: I was told about it already. I'm just waiting for my B: Yeah, I think I'll go.
invitation. A: Am I going to see you there?
A: Is that right? I already got my invitation from her B: You will.
earlier. 22. Declining an Invitation to a Party (2)
B: I believe that she will give me the invitation today. 1
A: Are you even going to go? A: What's up?
B: Yeah, it sounds like it's going to be the best party of B: Nothing much, what's going on?
the year. A: I'm having a party this Friday.
A: Exactly, it seems like it's going to be loads of fun. B: Oh, really? That's nice.
B: When exactly does the party start? A: I wanted to see if you wanted to come.
A: The invitation says it starts at 8:00 p.m. B: This Friday? Sorry, I already have plans.
B: Has she given out a lot of invitations yet? A: Doing what?
A: I have no idea, she hasn't given out many though. B: I'm going to dinner with my family.
B: I'm planning on going, but I really need her to give me A: I really wanted you to come, but I understand.
my invitation. B: Yeah, maybe next time.
21. Declining an Invitation to a Party (1) A: I'll hold you to that.
1 B: Sounds like a plan.
A: What's going on? 2
B: Nothing really, you? A: Hey, what's good with you?
A: I'm throwing a party next Saturday. B: Not a lot. What about you?
B: Is that right? A: I'm throwing a party on Friday.
A: Yeah, are you going to come? B: That sounds like fun.
B: I'm sorry, I can't. A: Do you think you can come?

14
A: Why not? B: I'm sorry. I'm already doing something this Friday.
B: I don't really want to. A: What are you going to be doing?
A: Well, why don't you? B: My family and I are going to dinner.
B: I hate going to parties. A: I was hoping you would come.
A: Well, that's okay. B: I'll definitely try to make it the next time.
B: Yeah, sorry. A: I'd better see you there.
2 B: All right. I'll see you next time.
A: What's up? 3
B: Nothing, how about you? A: What's going on?
A: Next Saturday, I'm going to have a party. B: Nothing really. How about you?
B: Oh, really? A: A lot, like the party I'm having on Friday.
A: You are coming? B: Well, that's cool.
B: Probably not. A: Will you be able to make it?
A: Why is that? B: I'm busy this Friday. I'm sorry.
B: I don't feel like going. A: What do you have to do?
A: Why not? B: I'm having dinner with my family
B: I really can't stand going to parties. A: Maybe you can come next time.
A: I understand, I guess. B: I'll make sure and come to your next party.
B: Sorry about that. A: I'll look for you at my next party.
3 B: I'll be there.
A: What's happening? 24. Leave-Taking
B: Not a lot, what about you? 1
A: I'm having a party next Saturday. A: Well, it was nice talking to you.
B: That's nice. B: It was nice talking to you too.
A: Are you going to be there? A: We should really hang out again.
B: I don't think so. B: That would be fun.
A: Is there a reason why? A: Where do you want to go?
B: I just really don't want to go. B: I think we should go out to eat.
A: How come? A: That sounds good.
B: I don't really like parties. B: All right, so I'll see you then.
A: I wish you would go, but that's okay. A: I'll call you later.
B: I'm sorry. B: Okay, I'll talk to you later then.
23. Ending a Conversation A: See you later.
1 B: Bye.
A: It was nice talking to you. 2
B: Why are you trying to rush me off the phone? A: I enjoyed talking to you.
A: I really have to go. B: I enjoyed talking to you too.
B: Why? I still wanted to talk to you. A: We should hang out some time.
A: I have things to do. B: I think that would be nice.
B: Like what? A: Is there anything you would like to do next time?
A: Don't be nosey. B: Do you want to go out to eat?
B: I'm not. I just want to know. A: I'd like that.
A: Well, it's really none of your business. B: So I'll see you next time.
B: That's harsh. A: I'm going to call you soon.
A: I'm sorry, but I have to go. B: I'll talk to you later.
B: Fine. A: See you soon.
2 B: Goodbye.
A: I've enjoyed conversing with you. 3
B: Is there a reason why you're trying to get off the A: I had fun talking to you.
phone so fast? B: It was really nice talking to you also.
A: I've got to go. A: I think we should really do something sometime.
B: I wasn't done talking to you. B: That should be loads of fun.
A: I have to do some things, and besides, it's not polite A: What do you want to do next time?
to be nosey. B: Would you like to go to dinner or something?

15
B: I'm not being nosey. I'm just asking. A: Yeah, let's do that.
A: I really don't think it's any of your business. B: Okay, until next time then.
B: That's not nice. A: I'll call you so we can set that up.
A: I apologize, but I'm getting off the phone now. B: Talk to you then.
B: Okay. A: All right, see you.
3 B: See you.
A: I'll talk to you later.
B: What's the rush?
A: I have to get off the phone now.
B: I'm not ready to get off the phone with you.
A: There are other things I need to take care of.
B: What is it that you need to do?
A: Please don't be nosey.
B: I'm not being nosey, it's just a question.
A: You don't need to worry about that.
B: That was mean to say.
A: I am very sorry, but I must go.
B: I guess.
II. College Life 2. Meeting New Students
1. Registering for a Class 1
1 A: Hello, how are you doing?
A: Hello, I need to register for a class. B: Pretty good, and you?
B: What class are you trying to take? A: I'm doing great.
A: I want to take a Psychology class. B: That's great to hear.
B: Well, there are only two classes open. A: So how long have you been going to PCC?
A: Can you tell me what days the classes are on? B: I've been going here for a couple years now. You?
B: One class is on Tuesday and Thursday from 2:00 p.m. A: This is my first year.
- 4:00 p.m. B: How do you like it so far?
A: And the other class? A: It's all right.
B: That class is from ten to twelve on Monday and B: You don't like it?
Wednesday. A: I'll like it better once I finish my GE.
A: Are you sure these are the only open classes? B: That's exactly how I used to feel.
B: Yes, I am sure. 2
A: Okay, sign me up for the class on Monday and A: How are things with you?
Wednesday. B: Not too bad. How about yourself?
B: Very well then. A: Not bad.
2 B: I'm glad to hear that.
A: I would like to register for a class today. A: Have you been going to PCC long?
B: No problem, what class would you like to take? B: I've only been here two years. How about yourself?
A: I would very much enjoy taking a Psychology class. A: I just started this year.
B: There are two classes that are still open. B: Do you like it?
A: Which days are these classes on? A: It's fine for right now.
B: The first class is a Tuesday and Thursday class from B: You do not like it, right?
two to three. A: Once I'm finished with my GE, it should get better.
A: What about the other class? B: I felt the same way my first year.
B: The other class is on Monday and Wednesday from 3
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A: How is everything going with you?
A: Are you sure there are no more open classes? B: Great. You?
B: I'm positive. A: Pretty good.
A: Sign me up for Monday and Wednesday. B: Good for you.
B: Okay, I'll sign you up. A: When did you start going to PCC?
3 B: This is my second year. How about you?
A: Could you help me to register for a class? A: I only got here this year.
B: Do you know what class you want to take? B: You like it so far?

16
A: Are there any Psych classes available?
B: I believe there are still two Psychology classes open.
A: On what days are the classes?
B: There is one class on Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to
4.
A: Can you tell me about the other class?
B: It's from 10-12 on Monday and Wednesday.
A: You're positive that these are the only classes left?
B: These two are the only ones.
A: The class on Monday and Wednesday will be fine.
B: Very good.
3. Finding a Classroom
1 B: OK, so once you pass the gym, it's the first door on
A: Could you help me?
B: What do you need?
A: I can't seem to find my class.
B: What building is it in?
A: It's in the C building.
B: Oh, I know exactly where that is.
A: Do you think you can tell me where it is?
B: Sure, what room number is it?
A: It's room number 261.
B: I have a class around there right now.
A: Could you show me where it is?
B: No problem, come on.
2 2
A: Excuse me, I need your assistance.
B: Sure, what's up?
A: I have no idea where my class is.
B: Tell me which building it's in.
A: My class is in the C building.
B: I know where the C building is.
A: Do you mind telling me where it is?
B: Of course, which room number is it?
A: Number 261.
B: I actually have a class right around there.
A: Can you please show me?
B: I can do that.
3 the representative near the entrance. He will pay you for
A: Do you mind helping me?
B: What can I help you with?
A: I'm not sure how to find my next class.
B: Do you know what building that it's in?
A: The C building, I think.
B: Well, that's not far away.
A: Could you point me in that direction?
B: Do you know what the room number is?
A: It's C261.
B: My next class is around there.
A: Can you show it to me?
B: Sure, let's go.
5. Talking about a Professor
1 you know where the bookstore is?
A: Could you tell me if you have ever taken a class from
17
A: It's OK.
B: I can tell you don't really like it.
A: It'll get better after I finish my General Education.
B: I understand what you mean.
4. Buying Textbooks
1
A: How do I buy my textbooks?
B: Do you have your book list for your class?
A: Yes, I have my list.
B: Fine. Once you have it, you can go to the bookstore.
Do you know where that is?
A: Yes, I know where the bookstore is.
your left. Do you know you can also sell your used
textbooks there?
A: No, I didn't know I could do that.
B: You just take them with you and trade them with the
used textbook man just outside the door. Do you think
you will be doing that today?
A: Yes, I am going today.
B: Well, if you decide to go, I could meet you over there
at 1:00 today or tomorrow to help you. Would that work
for you?
A: Yes, thank you. That would be great.
B: Well, then, I'll talk to you later. Have a good day!
A: Where can I buy textbooks?
B: First, you need to have the list of books for your class.
Do you have that?
A: Yes, I have that.
B: Well, when you have that, you can take it over to the
bookstore. Can you find it?
A: No, I don't know where the bookstore is.
B: Just pass the gym and it's the first door on your left.
Were you aware that you can also turn in your old
textbooks for money?
A: Really? How can I do that?
B: Take your used textbooks with you and give them to
them. Are you going today?
A: No, I can't make it today.
B: I could help you with buying your books if you meet
me there at 1:00 today or tomorrow. Would you like my
help?
A: No, thanks. I'm good.
B: I'll see you later then. Have a great day!
3
A: Can you help me buy my textbooks?
B: There will probably be a book list in the bookstore. Do
you have your class schedule handy?
A: No, I don't have that.
B: To get started, take that list over to the bookstore. Do
A: I am not sure where the bookstore is.
Dr. Miller?
B: Yes. Are you going to be taking a class from him?
A: Yes, but I have never taken his class before.
B: He is very interesting and challenging. Is that what
you are looking for?
A: Yes, that's what I need.
B: He is really clear on what you need to learn to get a
good grade. Are you willing to study hard?
A: Yes, I guess so.
B: What I really liked about him is that he was an
understanding and friendly teacher. Do you enjoy that in
a teacher?
A: Yes, I had a teacher like that before.
B: Did you know that he has 20 years teaching
experience?
A: No, I didn't, but that could be a good thing.
B: Well, take a look at everything and figure out what is
best for you. Good luck!
2 A: Two o'clock would be the best time.
A: Do you know anything about Dr. Miller's classes?
B: Yes. Are you in his class?
A: I'm thinking of taking his class next semester.
B: He really knew his stuff, but he graded hard. Would
that be OK?
A: Yes, I really need someone who is really good.
B: I didn't find it overwhelming to earn a good grade if
you work at it. Can you do that?
A: Maybe, but I'm not sure.
B: Man, this guy was so funny when he was teaching. I
like that, don't you?
A: No, that stuff isn't important to me.
B: Did you know that he is a fairly new teacher and very
current in his field?
A: I don't care about any of that.
B: We all are looking for different things in an instructor.
I hope I've helped you.
3 stairs to the third floor.
A: Would you talk to me about taking one of Dr. Miller's
classes?
B: Yes. Have you ever been in one of his classes?
A: I'm thinking about taking his class next semester.
B: He was a very easy teacher. Are you thinking of taking
a class with him?
A: I'm not sure because I really need to learn something,
but I also worry about grades.
B: Grades are important, but don't you think that gaining
the knowledge is important, too?
A: I really need to learn this stuff.
B: He made everything so interesting that the time just
flew by. Do you know what I mean?
A: Yes, that sounds right for me.
B: Did you know that he came here last year after 10
years in the military?
A: Yeah, I already knew that. That could be a good thing.
18
B: When you pass the gym, it'll be the first door on the
left. Do you know how to sell your old textbooks for
money?
A: Yes, I knew I could do that. Exactly how do I go about
selling them?
B: If you give your used textbooks to the person at the
booth outside the door, he will reimburse you. Can you
go over there today?
A: I think maybe I could be there.
B: I am free at 1:00 today or tomorrow if you need some
help. Want to meet me over there?
A: Maybe that would work.
B: I'll catch you later then. Have a wonderful morning.
6. Making an Appointment with Your Professor
1
A: Professor, could I make an appointment with you?
B: I am free tomorrow afternoon between two and four;
do you have a particular time in mind?
B: Fine, do you know where my office is?
A: No, I'm not sure.
B: Remember, it is in the E building on the third floor.
A: I see.
B: Don't worry, it will work out fine once you get there.
I'll see you then.
A: I'll see you then.
B: Looking forward to meeting with you!
2
A: Excuse me, Professor, is there a time when I could
meet with you?
B: I could meet with you tomorrow anywhere from two
until four; what time works out best?
A: I would like to come in at three o'clock.
B: I am glad that that works out; can you find my office?
A: Yes, I can.
B: Just follow the walkway to the outside and climb the
A: I got it.
B: If you do get lost, just ask someone in the building to
point the way.
A: Thank you, I'll be there.
B: If you need to cancel your appointment, please give
me a call!
3
A: Professor, do you have a few moments when I could
meet with you?
B: I schedule my appointments from two to four on
Saturday; what works best for you?
A: Three would be a good time.
B: Great, do you need directions to my office?
A: I'm not sure.
B: Well, just make sure to go through the double doors,
and I'll be on the right.
A: OK, I'll find it.
B: I think you know that you have to make the best
decision for you. Enjoy your year!
7. Turning Homework in Late
1 8. Finding an Error in Your Test Score
A: Excuse me, Professor. I have to talk to you about why
my homework didn't get done.
B: What happened that you didn't get it done?
A: I had to watch a football game instead.
B: Well, you had more than one day; couldn't you have
fit it in on another day?
A: Yes, I think so.
B: Either way, I only allow one missed assignment per
semester. When will you be turning the make-up in?
A: I'll make it up next week.
B: Fine, but it cannot happen again if you want an “A” in
the class.
A: OK, I can do that.
B: Remember that you are in college now, not high
school.
2 B: Well, if I total that like this and divide by this number,
A: I don't have my homework today.
B: You usually are good about turning it in; what
happened?
A: I was really sick.
B: But couldn't you have done it when you felt better?
A: Yes, I probably could.
B: You have already missed one other assignment; when
can I expect the make-ups?
A: Next class meeting.
B: That will be soon enough, but make sure you get next
week's assignment in as well, all right?
A: That would work for me.
B: Good. I know that you are capable of being an
excellent student.
3 B: Look at the answer sheet and compare it to your
A: Let me tell you what happened to my homework.
B: OK, go ahead--what is the excuse THIS time?
A: Actually, I did it, but then it got lost.
B: Could you have gotten it done at another time?
A: Yes, I could.
B: You have never missed an assignment before--when
will you be making this one up?
A: I'll make it up early next week.
B: That would work, but don't let it happen again.
A: I'll try.
B: That will solve it then. Let's work hard to not let it
happen again.
9. Borrowing Class Notes
1 score is wrong.
A: Do you have the notes from last week's class?
B: Did you come late?
A: I couldn't make it.
B: Why is that?
A: I was sick.
19
B: It's very easy to find.
A: See you then.
B: I will enjoy seeing you; have a good week!
1
A: Excuse me, Professor. I think there might be an error
in my test score.
B: Sure. Do you think that the total is wrong or that you
got something marked wrong that should have been
marked right?
A: I think that the percentage is incorrect.
B: Let's just go over all of it to double-check.
A: Sure, let's do it.
B: Here is the answer sheet. Do you see a place where I
marked something wrong that should have been right?
A: I don't see any mistakes.
B: OK, now that we've gotten those straightened out,
let's total the score.
A: Yes, let's total it.
I get this total. Do you agree?
A: Yes, you're right.
B: Well then, we are all straight. Have a good day and
thanks for bringing that to my attention.
2
A: I was looking at my test score and think that it should
be higher.
B: Is the math wrong or the way the answer was
marked?
A: I think an answer got marked wrong that should have
been marked right.
B: These things can happen; let's double-check the
answers first to be sure, all right?
A: That would be great!
answers. Do you see any place where I made a mistake
in grading?
A: This one right here should be right.
B: Yeah, I see the same thing; now we can do the math
and check that, right?
A: Yeah, let's do the math.
B: I count all of the correct answers, total them, and
divide by the total. Does this look right to you?
A: Looks pretty good.
B: Thank you for caring enough to check on your scores;
keep studying!
3
A: Could we go over some things, because I think my test
B: What do you think is wrong, the math or the way your
answer was scored?
A: Both.
B: I am willing to take a second look because teachers
make mistakes, too. Will that work for you?
B: Oh, okay. Well, here you go. A: Yeah, I'm ready.
A: Are these all of them? B: Check your answers against the ones on the answer
B: Oh, wait, here are the rest. sheet and let me know where you see the mistake.
A: Thanks a bunch. A: These look strange.
B: Don't mention it. B: Yes, I agree; let's move on to the calculating of the
2 score. Would that be OK?
A: Do you mind if I borrow the notes from last week? A: OK, let's do the calculation.
B: Were you here last week? B: We add all of these up and divide by this and that
A: I was unable to make it. gives us this percentage.
B: How come? A: I see.
A: I was sick that day, and couldn't make it. B: Anytime you have a question, please feel free to ask!
B: Well, here are the notes. 10. Grading Policy
A: Are there any more? 1
B: Sorry, here you go. A: I was wondering how you are going to calculate our
A: Thanks a lot. final grades.
B: No problem. B: Grades are based on many things: homework,
3 attendance, quizzes, mid-term, and final.
A: Let me get last week's notes. A: What counts the most?
B: Yeah, sure--you didn't come to class that day? B: Actually I look at all of it and let's not forget class
A: I couldn't come. participation.
B: Why not? A: Do you grade on a curve or use percentages?
A: I wasn't feeling well. B: Homework, attendance, and quizzes are sixty percent;
B: Here they are. the mid-term and final are worth twenty percent each.
A: Thanks a lot; are these all the notes? A: What if we miss something?
B: Oh, no, this is the rest. B: I will allow one unexcused absence; after that you
A: Thank you very much. need to contact me ahead of time.
B: It's no problem at all. A: Will you tell us if we are failing during the year?
11. Discussing Your Grades with Your Professor B: You will be able to track your progress during the
1 year.
A: I'd like to talk to you about my grades. 2
B: Sure! What exactly do you have questions about? A: What do you base our grades on?
A: I am worried that I messed up on a test. B: All of your coursework is important, including
B: Well, let me take a look at my grade book. How do everything from attendance and homework to all of your
YOU think you are doing? test results for the semester.
A: I think I am doing great, except for that one test! A: Does the final count the most?
B: Well, your scores show that you could do a little B: All of it is important; please just do your best at all
better. What do you think you could improve on? times.
A: I think that I could study a little harder for tests. A: How do you total our scores?
B: Fine! Please remember that regular attendance is the B: The final and mid-term are twenty percent each;
most important way to begin. homework, attendance, and quizzes are the rest.
A: Yes, I know. A: What if we are out sick?
B: I'm sure you'll do fine. B: Make sure you contact me as I only allow one
2 unexcused absence.
A: Could you talk to me for a few minutes about my A: How can we know if we are doing OK during the year?
grades? B: Your grade will not be a surprise; you will know what
B: Step into my office for a moment. What is your you need to work on.
concern? 3
A: Am I failing? A: How do you decide what grade we get?
B: Let's go on the computer to see what's up. Do you B: I look at many things: attendance, quizzes, and tests.
think you are doing well? A: What is the most important factor?
A: I am pretty sure that I am in trouble. B: Obviously I look for improvement as we go along, but
B: I can see that you are trying, but where do you think I would like you to do your best from the beginning.
you could improve? A: How can we keep track of our grades?
A: I missed a few classes; I need to make sure I come to B: The final and midterm are 40 percent of your grade;

20
school on a regular basis.
B: Having a regular study routine and following it is very
important, right?
A: I'll try; it's hard!
B: Thanks for stopping by!
3 major problem.
A: Professor, I'm concerned about my grades. Do you
have a minute?
B: Of course, how can I help you?
A: I want to know if I am doing OK.
B: Let's pull out your scores so far. Do you think you are
doing OK?
A: I am afraid that I might not be doing all that well.
B: I'm seeing that you are doing OK in some areas, but
not so well in others.
A: I think I could take better notes and read a little more.
B: You can greatly improve your grades by always
reflecting on what you can improve on.
A: I'm working on it!
B: Just do your best and I am sure that you will see
improvement.
13. Talking to Professor about Leaving Early
1 B: Well, have a good day off from class.
A: Professor, I am going to need to leave class early
today.
B: What is the problem?
A: I need to go to the airport to pick up a relative.
B: Are you planning on having someone take notes for
you?
A: Yes, I've got that part covered.
B: When, exactly do you need to leave?
A: I don't need to leave until the very end of class.
B: Fine, but next time try and not have to miss class
again.
A: Thanks, Professor. See you later!
B: See you later! Drive carefully.
2 B: Make good use of that day off; you'll only have one
A: Excuse me, Professor, I have a problem and need to
leave class early.
B: Why do you have to leave early?
A: I am not feeling well.
B: Could you make it up by attending my other section
this week?
A: Yes, it's all taken care of.
B: Are you leaving right away or can you stay for a few
more minutes?
A: I can stay a few more minutes.
B: OK, but please make sure that you get all of your
make-up work completed.
A: Thanks, Professor. I've got it covered!
B: Go do what you have to do, but make sure it doesn't
happen again.
3 1
A: I am sorry, but I can't stay until the end of class.
21
homework, attendance, and quizzes total 60 percent.
A: What if we can't get to school?
B: You can only miss one class without penalty.
A: If we have a major problem, will you let us know?
B: I will be letting you know during the year if you have a
12. Talking to Professor about Being Absent
1
A: Excuse me, Professor. I am going to miss next week's
class.
B: Is this something that you could schedule for another
time?
A: No, I have to do this; it's important!
B: Have you arranged for someone to take notes for
you?
A: I've made arrangements with a friend to help me.
B: You know that I only allow one absence per semester,
don't you?
A: Yes, I know.
B: Write down your name and the date on a piece of
paper and give it to me.
A: OK, I can do that.
2
A: Professor, I will not be here for our next class
meeting.
B: Is this absolutely necessary?
A: I tried to work something out, but I really do have to
miss one class.
B: Will you be able to make up the work you missed?
A: I'm going to be doing a lot of extra reading.
B: Remember that I will only let you miss one class
meeting per semester.
A: Yes, I remember.
B: Could you e-mail me this week as a reminder?
A: Sure, no problem.
this semester!
3
A: I have to miss school next week.
B: Isn't there some way you could work your schedule
out to be here?
A: Unfortunately, this is what I have to do.
B: How are you going to catch up?
A: I've got it all covered.
B: If you miss this class, you will have used up your
quota for the semester.
A: Don't worry, this will be the last class I miss.
B: Make sure to remind me right before you are absent.
A: I'll remember.
B: Enjoy your day off and don't forget to study!
14. Talking to a Counselor
A: I have an appointment for 1:30.
B: Where do you need to be that is more important than
school?
A: I have an appointment.
B: Do you have a plan to make up your missed work?
A: No, but I'll make sure someone helps me out this
week with my missed work.
B: Are you going to go right away?
A: I am leaving right now.
B: All right, but please remember that it is your
responsibility to catch up.
A: Thanks, Professor. I'll make sure everything gets taken
care of.
B: Goodbye, and try not to miss any more school.
15. Adding a Class
1 B: What can I do for you today?
A: I am unsure how to add a class and need help.
B: I have an opening. Do you have an add sheet for me
to sign?
A: Yes, I have an add sheet.
B: After I sign it, you must take it to the Admissions and
Records Office to add the class. Do you know where that
is?
A: No, I'm not sure.
B: When you cross the quad, the office is right in front of
you. Go inside and follow the signs to the correct line.
A: Thanks. I understand what to do now.
B: It should be easy to find. After you add the class,
check with me in a few weeks to make sure that you are
on my roll sheet.
A: That sounds good.
B: Good, just make sure that you do the same thing if
you ever need to drop a class. Good luck!
2 B: Yes, I can. Would you still like to have both of these
A: Professor, can you help me add your class?
B: You have to bring me an add sheet to sign. Do you
have one?
A: No, I will have to get an add sheet.
B: You must take the signed add slip to the Admissions
and Records Office to add the class. Do you know where
that is?
A: No, I don't know where that is.
B: The office is in front of you as you cross the quad. The
signs in the hallway will tell you where you need to be.
A: I think I can find it.
B: You'll find it easily. Make sure you add the class and
then we will look at the roll sheet later to make sure that
you were added on.
A: Thank you for letting me add your class.
B: To drop a class, you need to do the same thing with a
drop slip. Good luck!
3 A: Yes, someone is coming to get me.
A: I am not sure how to add a class.
B: Do you have an add sheet for me to sign?
A: I'll bring one next time.
22
B: What can I help you with?
A: Well, I have a problem with my class schedule.
B: What is it?
A: It seems that I've been given two classes scheduled at
the same time.
B: I can understand the problem with that.
A: Is there any way that you can fix my schedule?
B: No problem, do you want those classes still?
A: Yes, I do.
B: Let me see if I can find one of these classes on
another day.
A: Thank you very much.
2
A: I'm here for my appointment.
A: I have an issue with my schedule.
B: Tell me the problem.
A: I have two classes on here that are at the same time.
B: Oh, I see.
A: Can you change that for me?
B: Do you still want both classes?
A: Yes, I would like to keep both classes.
B: I'll try to change one to a different day.
A: I would greatly appreciate that.
3
A: I was supposed to meet with you at 1:30.
B: Yes, I see. What did you need to see me about?
A: There's a problem with my schedule.
B: What's the problem?
A: Two of my classes occur at the same time.
B: Well, I can see that's a problem.
A: Is it at all possible for you to fix that error?
classes?
A: I want to keep both of them, if that's possible.
B: Well, let me find you one of these classes on a
different day.
A: Thanks a lot.
16. Date and Time of a Field Trip
1
A: When are we leaving for our field trip?
B: Our science field trip is next Monday at 8:00 in the
morning. Can you mark that on your calendar?
A: Yes, I will write that down.
B: That will be Monday, December 2nd. We need to
start loading the buses half an hour early, so plan to
arrive at 7:30.
A: Yes, I will be there on time.
B: We will return 6 days later on December 8th. Will
someone be picking you up?
B: The return bus will leave the campground at 5:00
p.m. and return to campus 3 hours later at 8:00 p.m.
A: What should we bring with us?
B: When you get the signed add slip, you must take it to
the Admissions and Records Office or you will not be
added. Can you find the office?
A: I think I know where it is.
B: Across the courtyard on the right is the office. Follow
the signs to the correct line. Is that clear?
A: Thank you for your directions. It's clear.
B: You can't miss it. Add the class and then come back.
We'll check later to make sure you are on the roll sheet.
A: That's great. Thank you so much.
B: Do the same thing with a drop slip if you ever need to
drop a class. Good luck!
17. Where to Buy Lunch
1 A: Yes, I understand.
A: Hi, could you help me find a place where I could buy
some lunch?
B: Sure! What kind of food would you like?
A: I was thinking of pizza or something else Italian,
maybe.
B: I know the perfect place!
A: Good! Where is it?
B: It's right past that last building on the left. Do you
want me to go with you?
A: That would be great.
B: Glad you asked me to join you. This will be fun!
2 B: The science field trip is next Monday at 8 o'clock in
A: Man, I'm hungry. Do you know a good place to have
lunch?
B: Yes, I know a great place. What types of food do you
like?
A: Mexican, Japanese or Chinese would be great.
B: Oh, I know a place where you might like to eat.
A: Is it close by?
B: It's down a block on the right; can I show you the
way?
A: OK, I'd love the company.
B: This will work out well. I'm getting hungry just
thinking about it.
3 A: Not at the moment—maybe later, though.
A: Let's have some lunch; do you know of a great
restaurant somewhere?
B: I'm hungry, too. What types of food sound good?
A: Maybe just a quick sandwich, salad, or something.
B: I have a great idea of where you might like to go.
A: Can we walk there?
B: It's on the second floor. May I join you?
A: Of course! Let's go.
B: Let's hurry. I'm starving!
19. Getting a Library Card
1 A: Yeah, so far, so good.
A: Excuse me. I am interested in getting a library card.
B: Sure, let me give you an application. You can fill it out
right here at the counter.
A: OK, here it is.
23
B: I am going to post all of that information on the
geology club web page. Check it out when you get a
chance. See you Monday!
2
A: Can you tell me what the date and time of our field
trip is?
B: We are leaving on our science field trip at 8:00 a.m.
next Monday. Do you have something to write that
down on?
A: Yes, I can write that on my calendar.
B: That will be on the second of December. Be there ½
an hour early to get your bags on the bus. Do you
understand?
B: The bus will bring you back 6 days later on December
8th. Is someone coming to get you?
A: No, I don't have a ride yet.
B: We will be leaving the campground at 5:00 in the
evening and arrive at our campus at 8:00 p.m. Any more
questions?
A: How much will the trip cost?
B: I put all of that information in the packet. I'll give you
another copy if you need one. See you on Monday!
3
A: What date will our field trip be on?
the morning. Do you want to make note of that on your
calendar?
A: Yes, I will make note of that.
B: Next Monday is December 2nd. The buses will leave
at 8, but we must begin loading at 7:30.
A: Be there half an hour early.
B: You might want to tell whoever is picking you up that
you will return on December 8th. Do you have a ride?
A: Yes, someone is picking me up.
B: To get back to campus by 8:00 p.m., we will be leaving
the campsite at 5:00 p.m. Do you have any more
questions?
B: All of the extra information that you need is on the
bulletin board in the hallway. See you on Monday!
18. Using a Vending Machine
1
A: Can you help me figure out how to use this machine?
B: Yes, I would be happy to help. What do you want to
buy?
A: I want to buy that candy.
B: OK. So this machine will make change if you need it.
Do you have your dollars ready?
B: Next, you feed your dollars into the machine in the
slot. Make sure they are smooth.
A: Yeah, I already knew that.
B: I'm sure you know that if the dollar gets stuck, you
B: Let me take a look at this for you. May I have your
driver's license, please?
A: Here's my license and form.
B: You seem to have filled the form out all right. Are you
familiar with our rules and fines?
A: Yes, I know what to do.
B: The hours and limitations are printed on the card and
this handout.
A: OK, I see.
B: Thank you for joining the library; we look forward to
serving you.
2 A: I want to buy a drink.
A: I was wondering if you could help me to get a library
card.
B: Of course, just fill out this form and let me know
when you are finished.
A: I'm finished.
B: I will also need your driver's license; hand me the
filled-out form, please.
A: OK, the form is all filled out.
B: Perfect! Do you know the hours and rules for the
library?
A: No, I have no idea what they are.
B: Everything you need to know is printed on the card
and handout.
A: Yes, right.
B: Great! You are all set to enjoy the library.
3 machine.
A: Good morning. Is this where I can get a library card
issued to me?
B: No problem, we have a short form right here; just
hand it to me when you are done.
A: I'm done.
B: That looks great, but I will also need your driver's
license or other form of I.D.
A: Sure, here it all is.
B: Well, this looks nice. Do you know how to use it?
A: I am pretty sure how to use it, but can you remind
me?
B: Of course, just remember that all of the needed
information is on the card.
A: I see.
B: Well, I hope you have a wonderful time on your
library visits!
21. Using a Parking Meter
1 A: Can you help me with returning my late books?
A: Excuse me, could you help me figure out how to use
this new parking meter?
B: Sure, it was confusing for me also. Have you ever used
a regular meter?
A: Yes, I understood the old one.
B: Well, on this one you can use coins or a debit or credit
card; which one would you like to use?
A: Debit or credit card.
24
might have to re-feed it.
A: OK, let's move on!
B: Now you just make your selection and pray. If nothing
comes out, try again or call the number on the side of
the machine.
A: I hope it works!
B: Well, good luck!
2
A: I've never seen a machine like this before and need
some help.
B: Sure, no problem. What are you trying to get?
B: OK. This machine needs you to use that change
machine first to get correct change.
A: I've got the correct change already.
B: First you put your money in the dollar slot or the coin
slot. The dollars have to be smooth.
A: OK, what next?
B: Just know that sometimes the money doesn't go in
perfectly the first time and you have to try again.
A: OK, next?
B: Choose what you want and push the button.
Sometimes it takes a couple of tries.
A: I agree with you.
B: Hope that works for you!
3
A: I want to know how to buy something from this
B: Yeah, the new ones can be tricky. What are you trying
to buy?
A: I want to buy one of those snack things.
B: Are you ready to go?
A: I'm clear so far.
B: The money goes in the slot over there. It has to be
smooth to go in.
A: It won't go in!
B: Just remember that you might have to feed the
money in a couple of times to get it to work.
A: Yes, next step.
B: Make your selection and hope for the best. Vending
machines aren't all that reliable.
A: They're totally unreliable.
B: You seem to have it down. Have a good day!
20. Returning Overdue Books
1
B: This is the right spot to pay your fee. Put your books
down right here.
A: OK, here they are.
B: I can see that you owe 25 cents a day. That will be
one dollar and fifty cents total.
A: OK, here's the money.
B: We are interested in getting our books back; so as
long as all the fines are paid off by the end of the
B: OK. Now, do you see what the rate is on the sticker?
A: Yes.
B: OK, now that we know what it will cost, put the
money or card into the machine.
A: Yes, I can do that.
B: Wonderful; now, this machine asks you the number of
your spot, so put that in also.
A: Yes, I'm ready.
B: All you have to do now is take your receipt and put it
on your dashboard.
2 books.
A: Whoa, I never saw a meter like this before; how do
you use it?
B: It's simple, once you do it a few times. Do you know
how the old one worked?
A: I never used a parking meter before.
B: So we start out by deciding whether you will use cash
or a credit or debit card.
A: Cash.
B: Fine, can you read the rate on the display?
A: Yes, I can.
B: Fine. Now that we know what they are ripping us off
for, insert the payment.
A: I'd rather not pay, but I have to.
B: Fine, this machine does not ask you the number of
your spot, so we can move on, all right?
A: Perfect, let's do it.
B: Now just check the meter to see how many minutes
you have.
3 A: What if I can't pay it?
A: This parking meter is really confusing. Can you help
me figure it out?
B: It's just like the old one, but with new stuff added.
A: Yeah, OK.
B: The first step is deciding on debit or credit card
payment, so which one is it?
A: I have coins.
B: Perfect. Now, can you see the rate on the sign?
A: I didn't see that, but now I do.
B: Once you know what it will cost, put the payment in.
A: Here it goes!
B: You are doing great! Let's move on to the next step.
A: I am a little confused.
B: Just make sure that everything registered, and then
you are good to go!
23. Parking at School
1 A: I will be driving my car.
A: Can you tell me where I can park?
B: Are you driving a motorcycle or an automobile?
A: I drive an automobile.
B: Fine. You can either park in the student lot or on the
street. Do you know what a handicapped space is?
A: Yes, I have seen those spots.
B: Well, when you see the blue spots with the
25
semester, you will be fine. Does that make sense?
A: I'm not sure.
B: Your registration and transcripts can be held up if
there is an outstanding fine.
A: Now I understand.
B: Well, you can always keep your late fees down by
using the night drop if we are closed. Enjoy the library!
2
A: These books should have been turned in last week.
B: You have come to the correct place. Hand me your
A: Here they are.
B: Whoa, these are pretty late! You owe five dollars total
to clear your fine.
A: I don't have the money right now.
B: We only require that all fines must be paid off by the
end of the semester. So you will be okay to go.
A: What would happen if I didn't pay it?
B: It's really important to always clear your fines, so
you'll get a report card and transcripts on time.
A: Yeah, but I don't know how they can do that.
B: Always remember that the night drop is here, and we
really appreciate you returning your books for all to use.
3
A: My library books are late, where can I put them?
B: This is where they need to be turned in. Let me see
them to check the date, OK?
A: Yeah, I think that they are really late!
B: Not all that late. You only owe the library fifty cents.
B: We appreciate you paying off all fines as soon as
possible, but always before the end of the semester.
A: Yeah, I get it.
B: Your report card and transcripts will be held until you
pay all fines, so always make sure that you do that.
A: That's not really fair!
B: If we aren't here, always feel free to use the night
drop outside. Thanks for coming in!
22. Purchasing a Parking Permit
1
A: I'd like to purchase a parking permit for next
semester.
B: Are you a daytime student or do you just come in the
evenings?
A: I am a daytime student.
B: Will you be driving a motorcycle or a car?
B: OK, that will be twenty-five dollars. How would you
like to pay for it?
A: I'll pay for it with a check.
B: Would you like to pay for any extra permits for
another vehicle?
A: No, thanks; I'm fine.
B: Here you go then. Have a great school year!
handicapped logo, do not park there unless you have a
special permit. Are you going to be parking in the
daytime or evening?
A: I park in the evenings.
B: Then you also need to be aware of the time limits on
the street signs. Have you seen those signs?
A: Yes, I have seen those signs.
B: The signs always tell you how long you can park there
and on what days. Do you know how to read the curb
colors?
A: Yes, I know what the curb colors mean.
B: Well, just as long as you realize that red means no
parking and white means loading and unloading, I think
you know what you need to know.
2 A: I want to buy a parking permit, please.
A: Where should I park?
B: Do you have a car or motorbike?
A: I drive a scooter
B: In that case, you can park either in a student lot or on
the street. Are you aware of the marked handicapped
spots?
A: No, I haven't seen those spots.
B: The handicapped logo with blue means that you are
not to park there unless you have a handicapped permit.
Will you mostly be parking during the day or night?
A: I park in the daytime.
B: Make sure you pay special attention to the street
signs with time limits. Have you noticed those signs?
A: No, I have not seen the signs.
B: Pay attention to what the signs tell you in terms of
time limits and what days you can park there. Do you
know what the curb colors mean?
A: No, I don't know what the curb colors mean.
B: Just remember that red means absolutely no parking
and white means loading and unloading only. I think
you'll be good to go!
3 B: You will need to convince the judge that you couldn't
A: What is the best place to park?
B: What vehicle do you usually bring to school? Is it an
automobile or a motorbike?
A: I drive a motorcycle.
B: OK. That means you can park in the student lot or on
the street. Have you seen the handicapped spots?
A: I am not sure what a handicapped spot is.
B: Look for the blue signs and blue marked spaces. Do
you usually park in the daytime or the evening?
A: I park days and evenings.
B: Be careful about the time limits on the streets. Have
you seen the signs for time limits?
A: What signs?
B: As long as you are careful reading the signs, you will
always know how long you can park and what days are
OK to park there. Are you aware of the curb colors?
A: What curb colors?
B: If you can remember that red means absolutely no
26
2
A: I'll need a parking permit for next semester.
B: Do you attend school during the day or only at night?
A: I only attend class part-time in the evenings.
B: Do you drive a motorcycle or an automobile?
A: I have both, but I usually use my car to get to school.
B: Great, the price for that permit is thirty dollars; cash,
check, or credit card?
A: I'll pay cash.
B: Do you need to buy a duplicate permit for a second
vehicle?
A: No, thank you.
B: OK, here is your permit; enjoy the new semester.
3
B: Are you a full-time student or do you attend part-time
in the evenings?
A: I attend both day and evening classes.
B: Will you be riding a motorcycle or do you drive a car?
A: I ride a motorcycle.
B: That permit will run twenty-five dollars; will that be
cash or credit card?
A: I'll use a credit card, thank you.
B: Do you need a second permit for a car?
A: No, just the motorcycle permit.
B: Fine, here it is and have a great semester!
24. Fighting a Parking Ticket
1
A: Hey, I got this parking ticket; can you help me figure a
way out of it?
B: First of all, did you park somewhere too long or in the
wrong spot?
A: I was there too long.
B: Was the area clearly labeled with the time limit and
all?
A: Yeah, I saw it.
see the signs.
A: Yeah, I understand.
B: Whatever you do, you need to be respectful and
polite to the judge.
A: Yeah, you're right.
B: Just try to talk to him about how IF you made a
mistake that it won't happen again.
A: OK, I will.
B: Good luck!
2
A: Man, I got another parking ticket. I am so unlucky--
what can I do?
B: Was your car where it wasn't supposed to be, or did
you stay there too long?
A: I was in an area where I wasn't supposed to park.
B: Could you tell where you were supposed to park and
for how long?
parking and white means that you can only load and
unload, you are going to be OK.
27
A: I could tell what I was supposed to do.
B: That's too bad. That means that you can't use receipts
or a witness to help you out.
A: I guess not.
B: Try brown-nosing the judge, but don't be too obvious
about it.
A: Sure, if it will help.
B: Try and convince him that something was labeled
wrong or something.
A: Sounds good!
B: Give it your best shot; it might work.
3
A: I don't know how to fight a parking ticket.
B: Did you get written up for exceeding the time limit or
for parking where you weren't supposed to be?
A: Both.
B: Did you see all the signs and just decide to blow them
off?
A: I was confused.
B: Maybe you could explain that you are new and got
confused--could you do that?
A: If it might work, I'll go for it!
B: Let the judge see that you are only a poor starving
student who won't do it again.
A: I can see how that might work.
B: Without actually saying that the parking ticket guy
was an idiot, make it seem as though it was HIS mistake,
not yours!
A: I could do that!
B: Try it. It just might save you the price of a parking
ticket.
 III. At the Library
1. Applying for a Library Card
1 A: What may I do for you?
A: What can I help you with today?
B: I need to check out this book.
A: Do you have your library card?
B: I don't have one.
A: Would you like to apply for one right now?
B: That's fine.
A: I'm going to need you to fill out the application.
B: All right. All done.
A: All right, now please sign the back of the card.
B: Okay. I've signed it.
A: That's all there is to it.
B: Great. Now can I check out this book?
2 A: How may I help you?
A: May I help you?
B: Could I check out this book?
A: Let me see your library card.
B: I need to get one.
A: You can apply for one right now, if you'd like.
B: Okay. Let me do that right now.
A: Could you fill out this application?
B: I'm finished. Here you go.
A: Could you please sign the back of the card?
B: All right.
A: That's it.
B: Now may I check this book out?
3 A: What can I do for you?
A: What do you need?
B: I would like to check out a book.
A: I'm going to need your library card.
B: I don't have a library card.
A: Why don't you apply for one right now?
B: Sure. That would be great.
A: Please fill out this application.
B: Okay. Here you go.
A: Now, sign your name on the back of the card.
B: Here you go.
A: Here's your library card.
B: Thanks. Now I'd like to check out this book.
3. Asking Questions at the Information Desk
1 A: How are you doing today?
A: What can I help you with today?
B: When does the library close?
A: The library closes at six o'clock.
B: Does it close at that time every day?
A: Not always.
B: Is the library open on Saturdays?
A: Yes.
B: What time do you open and close on Saturday?
A: The hours are from 9 am to 6:30 pm.
B: Okay. Thank you very much.
A: Do you need anything else?
B: No, that's all. Thanks.
28
2. Applying for a Passport
1
B: I need to get a passport.
A: You will need to apply for one.
B: When will I be able to do that?
A: You can do it right now, if you'd like.
B: That's fine.
A: Please fill out this application.
B: Then what do I do?
A: I just need to take your picture.
B: How long will it take for my passport to be ready?
A: You will get it in a few weeks.
B: That's perfect.
2
B: I want to get a passport.
A: You need to apply for a passport.
B: When can I apply for it?
A: You can apply right now.
B: I'd like to do that.
A: Fill this out, please.
B: What's next?
A: I will need to take your passport picture.
B: When will my passport be ready?
A: It will take about three weeks.
B: That's great. Thank you.
3
B: I need a passport.
A: You can apply for one here.
B: When can I do that?
A: If you like, you can apply right now.
B: That would be great.
A: I'm going to need you to complete this application.
B: What else do I have to do?
A: Then I will take your picture for your passport.
B: How long will it take?
A: Your passport will be ready in a few weeks.
B: Thank you. That's perfect timing.
4. Asking the Librarian for Assistance
1
B: Good. Thanks for asking.
A: What may I do for you?
B: I need help with something.
A: What do you need help with?
B: I am looking for a newspaper article.
A: Have you looked in the periodicals?
B: I didn't even think about that.
A: I can show you where they are.
B: That would be a lot of help.
A: Follow me, please.
B: Thank you so much.
2
29
 IV. Transferring to a University
1. Transfer Plans
1 A: What are your plans?
A: Are you planning on transferring?
B: Yes. What about you?
A: Yeah, I think so.
B: Where do you want to go?
A: I was thinking either CSULA or UCLA.
B: Those are great schools.
A: Where do you want to transfer to?
B: I'm not really sure yet.
A: You still have time to figure it out.
B: That's true.
A: Hopefully you'll figure it out pretty soon.
B: I will. Good luck with CSULA and UCLA.
2 A: Tell me your plans.
A: Are you going to transfer?
B: Yes, I'm going to transfer. Are you?
A: Yes. I want to transfer.
B: What school do you want to transfer to?
A: Either CSULA or UCLA.
B: Either school would be a great choice.
A: Where are you going to transfer to?
B: I don't know.
A: You have plenty of time to think about it.
B: You're right.
A: Good luck figuring it out.
B: I'll figure it out eventually.
3 3
A: Do you plan on transferring schools?
B: I want to. Do you?
A: I'm thinking about it.
B: Where do you want to transfer to?
A: I want to go to CSULA or UCLA.
B: Those are pretty good schools.
A: Where are you planning on transferring to?
B: I haven't thought about it yet.
A: At least you still have time to think about it.
B: I know.
A: I hope that you figure it out.
B: I'll think of something.
3. Classes Taken for Transfer
1 1
A: What classes have you taken so far?
B: I've been working on my GE classes.
A: Is that all?
B: That's it for right now.
A: What about your other classes?
B: I'm working towards transferring schools.
A: Which classes have you finished already?
B: I've finished all my English and math classes.
A: How many classes do you have left for your GE?
B: Only three.
A: That's amazing.
B: I'm almost ready to transfer.
30
2. What College to Transfer to
1
B: What plans are you talking about?
A: Your plans as far as college.
B: I want to transfer.
A: You want to transfer?
B: That's what I plan to do.
A: Where do you want to transfer to?
B: I want to go to school out of state.
A: Which state?
B: Maybe New York.
A: That would be a big move.
B: I'm still thinking about it.
2
B: I'm not sure what plans you're referring to.
A: I'm talking about your college plans.
B: I'm going to transfer colleges.
A: Is that right?
B: That's what I'm working on doing.
A: Where are you going to transfer to?
B: I don't know yet. Somewhere out of state, probably.
A: Which state exactly?
B: New York would be nice.
A: That's pretty far away.
B: I know it's a big move. That's why I'm still thinking
about it.
A: What plans have you made?
B: My plans as far as what?
A: Your plans for college.
B: Oh. I plan on transferring.
A: Oh, really?
B: Yeah. That's the plan.
A: What school are you transferring to?
B: I want to transfer to a school out of state.
A: Which state are you thinking of?
B: I wouldn't mind transferring to a school in New York.
A: That's on the other side of the country.
B: I know, but I'm still weighing my options.
4. Classes Needed for Transfer
A: Are you planning on taking classes next semester?
B: Yeah. That's the plan.
A: What classes are you going to take?
B: I'm going to take an English and a math class.
A: What else are you taking?
B: I'm also going to take a psychology class.
A: Is that for your major?
B: It counts toward my major, but I'm taking it as part of
my GE.
A: So you're working on finishing your GE?
B: That's all I'm trying to do right now.
A: Why are you only working on your GE classes?
31
 V. Socializing
1. Going to a Party
1 A: What are you doing this weekend?
A: Are you going to the party on Saturday?
B: I was thinking about it. Are you?
A: Yeah, I heard it's going to be a lot of fun.
B: Really? Well, what time does it start?
A: It starts at 8:00 pm, and I really think you should go.
B: Well, who all is going to be there?
A: Everybody from school.
B: How do you know it's going to be so fun?
A: This party is going to have a DJ, food, and drinks.
B: Wow, that does sound like it's going to be fun.
A: So am I going to see you at the party?
B: Yeah, I will be there.
2 B: Well then, I'll see you on Saturday. Thanks for asking
A: Are you going to be at the party this Saturday?
B: I'm not sure yet. Are you going?
A: Of course I am, because it's going to be great.
B: Is it really? When does it start?
A: The party starts at 8 o'clock, and you should really try
to go.
B: I'm thinking about it. Who is going to the party?
A: Pretty much everybody from school.
B: What makes you think it's going to be so much fun?
A: The party is going to have food, drinks, and live music.
B: That does sound like it will be fun.
A: Are you going to go?
B: Certainly. I'm definitely going to go.
3 around. There is a music festival in Santa Barbara on the
A: Do you plan on attending the party on Saturday?
B: I haven't decided yet. Are you going to go?
A: Yes, I'm going, because it's going to be so much fun.
B: For real? What time is the party?
A: The party is at 8, and I hope to see you there.
B: Maybe I will go. Who's going to be there?
A: The whole school is going to be there.
B: What's going to be so much fun about this party?
A: There's going to be a live DJ, food, and drinks at the
party.
B: It seems like it will be a very good time.
A: So I guess I'll see you there?
B: Indeed! I need to join the fun.
3. Inviting a Friend to a Birthday Party
1 A: I think that Saturday morning around 8:00 would
A: Hey, Robert, what are you doing this weekend?
B: I didn't have any big plans.
A: We are putting together a birthday party for Mary.
B: That sounds like fun. Where will it be?
A: We thought it would be fun to have a pool party at
Jay's house.
B: Oh good! Can I bring anything?
A: We will be providing hot dogs, hamburgers, and cake,
but people can bring side dishes.
B: I am assuming that the dress is casual.
32
2. Making Plans for the Weekend
1.
B: I am not sure. What are you doing?
A: I was thinking of maybe taking a drive to the beach.
B: That sounds like a great idea!
A: Would you be interested in joining me?
B: Sure, I would love to go with you. When would you be
leaving?
A: I thought that we could leave around 8:00 on
Saturday morning.
B: That would give us plenty of time to explore. Did you
know that there is a music festival on the beach in Santa
Barbara?
A: That was part of my plan.
me to go with you.
2
A: Do you have any plans for the weekend?
B: I haven't given it much thought. What were you
thinking of doing?
A: I was planning on taking a trip up the coast to the
beach.
B: What a perfect thing to do on a beautiful weekend!
A: Would you like to come along?
B: I think I would enjoy that a lot. When would we
leave?
A: Saturday morning around 8:00.
B: Good. That would get us there with time to look
beach that day.
A: Yes, I was hoping to be able to go to the festival.
B: I am so glad we talked. Thank you for inviting me to
the beach with you.
3
A: Have you thought about what you might like to do
this weekend?
B: I have no idea. Do you have any ideas?
A: If the weather stays nice, I'd like to go to the beach.
B: That would be a good choice. The weather has been
great for the beach!
A: Why don't you come with me?
B: Hey, that would be perfect! What time are you
leaving?
work out well.
B: Santa Barbara has a music festival on the beach that
day. We would have enough time to drop in and see it.
A: Yes, I knew the festival would be there and was
looking forward to going to it.
B: I am really looking forward to Saturday. Thank you for
letting me go with you.
4. Inviting Boss to a Dinner Party
1
A: Mr. Lee, I was wondering if you and your wife had
33
 VI. Dating 2. Asking for a Date -1-
1. Dating Discussion 1
1 A: Can I ask you a question?
A: Do you enjoy going on dates? B: Sure, what's up?
B: Yes. I find dates to be a lot of fun. A: Well, I was just wondering if you'd like to go out this
A: What's so fun about them? Friday.
B: They give me the opportunity to get to know B: Really?
someone better. A: Yeah, I was thinking we could get a bite to eat and
A: So you always have fun on dates? catch a movie.
B: Not always. I don't always like the person I'm on the B: That sounds like fun.
date with. A: Of course, we can do something else if you'd like.
A: Why not? B: No, no, dinner and a movie sounds great.
B: My date may not be my type. A: Well, what time would you like me to pick you up?
A: So then why would you ask them out in the first B: How about 7:30?
place? A: That sounds good, so I'll see you then.
B: I didn't realize until after our date that they weren't B: Okay, cool.
my type. 2
A: Sounds like a huge waste of time to me. A: May I ask you a quick question?
B: Now that I think about it, it really is sometimes. B: Of course.
2 A: How would you like to go on a date with me this
A: Do you like dating? Friday?
B: It's really a lot of fun. B: Seriously?
A: What makes it so much fun? A: Well, I figured that we could go see a movie and get
B: It makes it easier to get to know somebody. some dinner.
A: Are dates always fun to you? B: Cool, that sounds like it will be fun.
B: Sometimes I may not like the person I'm having a date A: We can always do something else if you'd rather.
with. B: Not at all. I would love to go to dinner and a movie.
A: Why is that? A: That's great, so what time do you want me to come
B: The other person isn't always my type. get you?
A: Why would you bother going out with them then? B: Is 7:30 okay?
B: I didn't know that they weren't my type until after I A: Friday at 7:30 sounds perfect.
got to know them better. B: Great. See you then.
A: It seems to me that you're wasting your time. 3
B: You are absolutely correct, sometimes it is a waste. A: Can I ask you something?
3 B: Sure you can. What's going on?
A: Are dates fun for you? A: Would you go out with me on Friday?
B: I enjoy dating a lot. B: Are you for real?
A: Why are they so fun for you? A: I thought that we could go to dinner and a movie.
B: Dates allow me to meet new people. B: That actually sounds like it would be a lot of fun.
A: Your dates are always fun? A: Unless there's something else you would prefer to do.
B: Well, I don't always like who I'm dating; so not B: Actually, I would really like to go to dinner and a
always. movie.
A: How come? A: What time do you want me to come by and pick you
B: The person I am dating may not be my type. up?
A: How come you asked them out if they weren't your B: Is 7:30 cool with you?
type? A: That's perfect, so I'll see you then.
B: You don't always know what type of person you go on B: Perfect. I will see you on Friday.
a date with until you know them well enough. 4. Meeting a Blind Date
A: Dating sounds pointless. 1
B: Now that you mention it, sometimes you're right. A: Hi, are you Mia?
3. Asking for a Date -2- B: I am Mia. You must be Rubin.
1 A: Yes, that's me!
A: Hi, Todd, how is it going? B: It's so good to finally meet you. Karen has told me so
B: Things are going well. How are you, Mary? much about you!
A: I've also been doing well. A: I hope that she had good things to say about me!
34
35
36
 VII. Renting an Apartment
1. Scheduling an Apartment Viewing
1 A: This is Janet Smith in apartment 23. Can I speak to the
A: Hi, can I speak with the apartment manager, please?
B: Hello, this is the apartment manager speaking.
A: I'm calling about the apartment for rent on Main
Street.
B: Would you be interested in seeing the apartment?
A: I would love to see it.
B: Are you free today at around 6 p.m.?
A: Yes, I will be able to make it then.
B: Well, I'll see you at 6 p.m. Do you know how to get
there?
A: I used to live in that area.
B: I'll give you an application form when I see you.
A: That sounds good. Do I need to bring anything?
B: No. Just bring yourself.
2 B: Well, it'll take a couple of days to repair it.
A: Hello, I was wondering if I could talk with the
apartment manager.
B: I am the apartment manager. How can I help you?
A: I was wondering if the apartment on Main Street is
still available.
B: Yes, it's still vacant. Are you interested in seeing it?
A: Yes, I would love to see the apartment.
B: I will be at the apartment today at 6:00. Can you
make it?
A: Yes, I can be there at 6.
B: Great. I'll see you at 6. Do you know where it is?
A: Yes, I have a friend who lives in that neighborhood.
B: I'll be bringing an application form.
A: OK, should I bring anything with me?
B: No. I might need to see your ID card, but that's about
it.
3 B: Do you have any idea who might have been behind
A: Could I speak to the apartment manager?
B: I am the apartment manager. How can I help you?
A: I wanted to know if that apartment on Main Street is
still for rent.
B: I haven't rented it out yet. Would you like to see it?
A: Yes, I want to see it.
B: How about today at 6 p.m.?
A: That time is okay with me.
B: Very good. We'll meet at 6. Do you need directions?
A: No, thank you. I go by there on my way to work.
B: If you're interested, you can fill out an application
form.
A: That's a good idea. Do I need to bring anything
myself?
B: No. The only thing I need to see is your driver's
license.
4
A: I'd like to speak with the apartment manager, please.
B: This is he. What can I do for you?
A: I'm interested in the apartment on Main Street.
37B: Believe me, if I find out which kid broke the window,
2. A Broken Window
1
apartment manager?
B: Hi. How can I help you today?
A: Well, my window facing the empty lot is broken.
B: Oh, that's not good. What happened?
A: I dont know. I wasn't home when it happened.
B: Do you have any clue who might have done this?
A: I have a feeling that it might have been the
neighborhood kids.
B: Why, what leads you to that suspicion?
A: Well, next to the broken glass was a baseball.
B: Well, a baseball is certainly solid evidence.
A: I saw them playing just before I left my apartment.
B: Well, did you recognize any of them?
A: No, I just took a quick look.
A: A friend of mine is in the business. How about if I call
him?
B: That's okay by me. First, let me come see the damage.
A: Come on over. So does my friend charge you or me?
B: Since you didn't break it, you don't have to pay for it.
A: That's a relief. I thought I was going to get stuck with
the bill.
B: If I knew which kid did it, I would bill his parents.
2
A: I'm Janet Smith in apartment 23. Is this the apartment
manager?
B: Hello. What can I do for you today?
A: My living room window is broken.
B: Are you serious? Do you know what happened?
A: I am not really sure, because I was out when it
occurred.
this?
A: Something tells me it might be some of the kids in the
complex.
B: What led you to think it might be the kids in this
building?
A: I found a baseball near the broken glass.
B: Well, you can't ignore a baseball in your living room,
can you?
A: I saw them in the lot just before I went out.
B: Do you know any of them?
A: No, I didn't pay any attention to who they were.
B: I'll call the window repairman, but it'll probably take a
couple of days.
A: I could get fast service if I call a friend of mine.
B: I don't have a problem with that. Let me look at the
damage first.
A: Okay, I'm waiting for you. But who does my friend
give the bill to?
B: Since the kids broke it, your friend can bill me.
A: Whew! I was worried that I would have to pay for it.
38
 VIII. Taking the Bus 2. Asking for a Transfer
1. Asking about Where to Get Off 1
1 A: I need to get on another bus, but I have no more
A: This bus goes all the way to Santa Anita mall, right? money.
B: Yes, it'll take us there. B: Where'd the rest of your money for the bus go?
A: Are you positive? A: I spent it on a bag of chips.
B: I always catch this bus. B: Well, that was an intelligent thing to do.
A: How long is this bus ride? A: You don't have any spare change?
B: It only takes half an hour. B: No, I don't.
A: Where do we get off at? A: How am I going to get home?
B: We can get off the bus right behind Macy's. B: You should just ask the bus driver for a transfer.
A: There's a stop right next to the mall? A: How much does that cost?
B: Yeah, it's right in the parking lot. B: It's free; just go ask for one.
A: That's cool. A: Thanks for letting me know.
B: Yes, I know. B: No problem, just go ask.
2 2
A: Does this bus really go to the mall? A: I'm broke, and I have to catch another bus.
B: It goes all the way there. B: Why don't you have any money for another bus?
A: Are you sure? A: I got hungry and bought some chips.
B: I know it does. I catch this bus a lot. B: That was smart.
A: How long does it take for the bus to get there? A: Do you have any change I can use for the bus?
B: The bus ride is only thirty minutes or so. B: I don't have any.
A: Where do we get off the bus? A: I don't know how I'm going to get home.
B: Right behind Macy's is a bus stop. B: Get a transfer from the bus driver.
A: The stop is really at the mall? A: How much is a transfer?
B: It's in the middle of the parking lot. B: It doesn't cost anything.
A: That's perfect. A: Thanks for your help.
B: I know it is. B: Don't mention it.
3 3
A: Are you sure that this bus will take us to Santa Anita A: I don't have any more cash, and I have to get on
mall? another bus to get home.
B: Yes, it will. B: Why don't you have any more money?
A: You know that for a fact? A: I wanted some chips at lunch today, so I spent it.
B: Yeah, I catch this bus all the time. B: That was a bright idea.
A: Is it a very long bus ride? A: Do you have some change I can borrow?
B: It's about thirty minutes long. B: I don't have any change for you.
A: Do you know where we get off at? A: I need to get home.
B: There's a bus stop right behind Macy's. B: Why don't you just ask the bus driver for a transfer?
A: Really, there's a bus stop right by the mall? A: I don't have money for a transfer.
B: There's a bus stop in the mall parking lot. B: Go ask for a transfer. They're free.
A: That's convenient. A: I'm glad you let me know.
B: Absolutely. B: You're welcome.
3. Complaining about a Late Bus 4. Getting Off Too Early
1 1
A: Where is the bus? A: Is this our bus stop?
B: I think it's running late. B: I think this is it. Get off.
A: It should've been here 30 minutes ago. A: Dude, where are we at?
B: It should be coming soon. B: I have no idea.
A: It better, because I'm already late for work. A: I thought this was the right stop.
B: I can't stand riding the bus. B: It doesn't look right to me.
A: Me too, it's so unreliable. A: Did you make us get off early?
B: That is true. B: I think we did.
A: It's also horrible having to be at a bus stop in any kind A: I should not have listened to you.
of weather. B: I really thought this was our stop.
B: Exactly.That's the worst part. A: Now we have to walk.
39
40
 IX. Daily Life
1. Calling Credit Card Company
1 A: There's a problem with my credit card.
A: I'm calling today about a bill that I never received.
B: Can you tell me which credit card it was for?
A: It was for my Master Card.
B: You should've gotten that bill two weeks ago.
A: I haven't got it in the mail yet.
B: The computer is showing that all bills have been
mailed.
A: What am I supposed to do about my bill then?
B: Maybe you should call your post office.
A: But if it's their mistake, can I get an extension on my
bill payment?
B: Yes, but you will need to send us proof of their
mistake.
A: Thank you very much for your help.
B: No problem. Enjoy the rest of your day.
2 B: What's wrong with it?
A: I haven't received my credit card bill yet.
B: Which credit card are you speaking of?
A: My Master Card.
B: We sent that bill out a couple of weeks ago.
A: I never got it.
B: Your bill was mailed already.
A: What am I going to do since I haven't received the
bill?
B: If you haven't gotten it yet, then you should probably
take that up with your post office.
A: Can I get an extension on my bill if it does happen to
be the post office's fault?
B: If that's the case, you will need to provide proof of
their mistake.
A: Thanks for everything.
B: Don't mention it. Call back if you have any more
problems.
3 B: You didn't make this purchase?
A: I was inquiring about a bill that I never got.
B: Which credit card was the bill for?
A: The bill was for my Master Card.
B: That bill should have been mailed about two weeks
ago.
A: It never came in the mail.
B: My computer shows that it has already been mailed.
A: I have not gotten my bill, so what should I do about
that?
B: You should try contacting your post office.
A: If it is the post office's fault, may I have an extension
on my bill?
B: You'll have to prove it was their error; then you can
get an extension.
A: Thank you for all your help.
B: You are very welcome. Have a good day.
3. Ordering Cable Services
1 A: Is that one better?
41
2. Disputing a Charge
1
B: Tell me what the problem is.
A: A charge came up on my bill that I didn't make.
B: What was the charge for?
A: The charge was for a $350 purse, but I did not buy it.
B: Are you sure that you didn't make that purchase?
A: I would know if I bought something that expensive.
B: I apologize. What day was this purchase made?
A: It was bought on November 12th at 3:15 pm, while I
was at work.
B: All right, we'll do an investigation.
A: Until this investigation is finished, will I have to pay
for the charge?
B: No, you don't. We'll take care of it.
2
A: I have a problem with my credit card.
A: There is a charge on my card that I didn't make.
B: Can you tell me what the charge was?
A: It's for a purse that cost $350.
B: Are you positive that you didn't buy the purse?
A: I can't even afford a purse that expensive.
B: I'm very sorry. When was this purchase made?
A: I was at work, but the purchase was made at 3:15 on
November 12th.
B: We're going to investigate this claim.
A: Do I have to pay for this charge?
B: You won't have to pay for anything.
3
A: There is something wrong with my credit card.
B: What's the problem?
A: There is a charge on here that I never made.
B: What charge was made?
A: It was a charge for a $350 purse that I never bought.
A: I think I would remember if I made a purchase that
large.
B: Sorry. When was this purse purchased?
A: It was purchased on the 12th of November at 3:15
pm, but I was at work.
B: We'll do an investigation and get to the bottom of
this.
A: In the meantime, do I have to pay for this charge?
B: No. We'll take care of everything.
4. Inquiring about Internet Services
1
A: I would like to order some internet today.
B: What kind would you like?
A: What kind of internet is there?
B: You can get DSL or dial-up.
A: Which of those two is best?
B: I would recommend DSL.
42
 X. Shopping 2. Shopping for a Sweater
1. Talking to Someone about a Sweater 1
1 A: Pardon me. Could you help me?
A: Where can I buy an inexpensive cashmere sweater? B: Of course. How can I help you?
B: Maybe you should look around for an outlet. A: I am looking for a sweater.
A: That is a wonderful idea. B: What size do you wear?
B: Outlets have more reasonable prices. A: Medium, I think.
A: Thank you for your help. B: Here. How do you like this one?
B: No problem. Good luck. A: It's pretty. Can I try it on?
2 B: You can try it on in the fitting room over there.
A: Where can I find a cheap cashmere sweater? 2
B: How about an outlet? A: Excuse me. Can you help me?
A: Great idea! B: Certainly. What can I do for you?
B: Outlets give good deals. A: I need to purchase a sweater.
A: Thank you so much. B: What is your size?
B: You're welcome. A: Medium should be fine.
3 B: Is this one okay?
A: Do you know anywhere that sells cheap cashmere A: Can I try it on somewhere?
sweaters? B: The fitting room is in the left corner.
B: Outlets have cheap cashmere sweaters. 3
A: What a splendid idea! A: May I ask you a question?
B: Outlets usually give you great deals. B: Yes. How can I assist you?
A: Thanks for helping me. A: I want to buy a sweater.
B: You're welcome. B: What size?
4 A: I think a medium should fit me.
A: Do you know a place that sells cheap cashmere B: How about this one?
sweaters? A: The color's nice. Do you have a dressing room?
B: An outlet carries cheap cashmere sweaters. B: There's a fitting room right over there.
A: That's a good idea! 4
B: I've always had good luck at outlets. A: Do you have a second?
A: Thank you for the suggestion. B: Sure. What do you need?
B: I hope you find a nice sweater. A: I'm here to buy a sweater.
5 B: What size do you wear?
A: I'm looking for a shop that sells inexpensive cashmere A: I usually wear medium.
sweaters. B: What do you think about this one?
B: Have you tried an outlet? A: It's nice. Where is your fitting room?
A: Why didn't I think of that? B: The dressing room is in that corner.
B: Many of my friends shop at outlets. 5
A: Thanks. That is a good suggestion. A: Excuse me. Could you help me with something?
B: I'm only too happy to help. B: I'll certainly try.
3. After Trying on the Sweater A: I'm looking for a nice sweater.
1 B: What size do you wear in a sweater?
A: What do you think? A: Medium is my size for shirts and sweaters.
B: It looks great. B: Here's a medium. What do you think?
A: I would like to purchase it. A: I like it. Where can I try it on?
B: Will this be cash or charge? B: We have a large fitting room in that corner.
A: Here, take my credit card. 4. Returning a Radio (1)
B: Just sign here, please. 1
A: Sure. Here you go. A: I'd like to return this radio.
B: Here's your receipt. Have a nice day. B: All right. Do you have the receipt?
2 A: Here it is.
A: Does it look too big? B: May I ask why you're returning the radio?
B: It looks like it was made just for you. A: It does not work very well.
A: Yes, I like it. I'm going to get it. B: Would you like to exchange it?
B: How would you like to pay for it? A: No. I'd just like a refund.
43
44
 XI. At the Bank 2. Asking about Checks
1. Setting up a Bank Account 1
1 A: How are you doing today?
A: How are you doing today? B: Great. Thanks.
B: Great. Thanks. A: What can I do for you today?
A: What can I help you with? B: I just have one question.
B: I would like to open a bank account. A: What's your question?
A: What kind would you like to open? B: How do I order checks?
B: I need a checking account. A: You can order them right now, if you'd like.
A: Would you also like to open a savings account? B: That would be great.
B: That's fine. A: Just fill out this application.
A: In order to open these accounts, you need to deposit B: Then what?
a minimum of $50. A: Give it about 5 to 7 business days, and you should
B: I want to deposit $300. receive them in the mail.
A: I'll set up your accounts for you right now. B: Here's my application. Thanks for your help.
B: Make sure to put $150 in each account. 2
2 A: How are you?
A: How are you? B: I'm fantastic.
B: I'm well. Thank you for asking. A: What can I help you with?
A: What can I do for you? B: Could you answer a question for me?
B: I need to open a bank account. A: What would you like to know?
A: What kind of account? B: I need to order checks. How do I do that?
B: I just need a checking account. A: You can do that right now, if you want to.
A: You can open a savings account, too. B: Let me do that now.
B: All right. Open both. A: I'm just going to need you to fill out this application.
A: You need to deposit at least $50 into both accounts. B: What do I do next?
B: I will be depositing $300 today. A: You will receive your checks in the mail in about a
A: I will set your accounts up right now. week.
B: Would you please put $150 in both accounts? B: I've finished my application. Thank you so much.
3 3
A: How are things with you? A: How's it going?
B: I'm fine. Thank you. B: I'm fine. Thank you.
A: May I help you with something? A: May I help you?
B: I want to open a bank account. B: I have a question.
A: Do you know what kind of account you want to open? A: Ask away.
B: I want to open a checking account. B: How can I order new checks?
A: You should also open a savings account. A: If you want, you can order some right now.
B: That would be great. B: I would like to do that right now.
A: To open these accounts, you will need to make a A: First, you need to fill out this application.
deposit of at least $50. B: What else do I have to do?
B: I would actually like to deposit $300 today. A: Give it about a week, and you should get your checks
A: Let me do that for you now. in the mail.
B: Please put $150 in each account for me. B: I appreciate your help. Here's my application.
3. Making a Deposit 4. Making a Withdrawal
1 1
A: How are you doing? A: How are you doing today?
B: Great. Thanks for asking. B: Great. Thank you.
A: What can I do for you today? A: What can I do for you?
B: I would like to deposit some money. B: I need to withdraw some money.
A: Are you depositing cash or a check? A: How much would you like to take out?
B: I want to deposit cash. B: I need to withdraw $300.
A: How much are you depositing? A: Which account would you like to take the money
B: I would like to deposit $300. from?
A: What account do you want your money in? B: I want to take it from my checking account.
B: I want to deposit it into my checking account. A: Here you go.
45
46
 XII. Food
1. Breakfast
1 A: What's for lunch?
A: What do you feel like eating this morning?
B: I usually just have a bowl of cereal.
A: The most important meal of the day is breakfast.
B: Yeah, but I don't usually have time to eat a big
breakfast.
A: You can always make an easy breakfast.
B: What do you make?
A: All I make is oatmeal, toast, and some orange juice.
B: That sounds pretty good.
A: I like it, and it's a fast meal.
B: That is a very quick meal to make.
A: I can make it for you if you like.
B: Oatmeal and toast sounds good to me.
2 B: I have no idea. What about you?
A: What are you going to have for breakfast?
B: I just have some cereal each morning.
A: You're supposed to always have a hearty breakfast.
B: I don't always have time to make breakfast.
A: It's easy to make a quick breakfast.
B: What do you have for breakfast?
A: When I need to make a quick breakfast, I just make
some oatmeal, toast, and OJ.
B: That's a good idea.
A: It's not time consuming at all.
B: It doesn't take much time to make?
A: Would you like me to make something?
B: Why don't you make me some oatmeal and toast?
3 A: I want to get some pizza.
A: What do you want to eat for breakfast?
B: All I usually have is some cereal for breakfast.
A: You know that breakfast is the most important meal
of the day?
B: I sometimes run late in the morning, and can't make
breakfast.
A: That's not a good excuse.
B: Tell me what you eat in the morning.
A: I just eat some oatmeal, toast, and orange juice.
B: That sounds like a great breakfast.
A: It's good, and it's easy to make.
B: That sounds like a very quick meal.
A: So, are you still going to have cereal?
B: I think I'm going to make myself some oatmeal and
toast.
3. Dinner
1 B: You shouldn't drink soda when you're really thirsty.
A: What's for dinner tonight?
B: What are you planning on cooking?
A: I'm not making anything.
B: If you plan on eating, you are.
A: What am I supposed to cook?
B: What do you feel like having?
A: I want some chicken and potatoes.
47
2. Lunch
1
B: I don't know. What do you want to eat?
A: I was thinking of pizza.
B: That's what I ate yesterday.
A: What do you want to eat?
B: I wouldn't mind a burger.
A: I ate a burger just the other day.
B: We're going to have to compromise.
A: You could always get a burger, and I can get a pizza.
B: Sounds good to me.
A: Where can we go to get both?
B: We can get both at the cafeteria.
2
A: What are we eating for lunch?
A: I kind of want pizza.
B: I ate pizza the other day.
A: So, what do you feel like eating then?
B: How about some burgers?
A: I already had a burger yesterday.
B: What are we going to do?
A: We can just each get what we want to get.
B: That sounds like a plan.
A: Do you know a place that sells pizza and burgers?
B: I think they sell both at the cafeteria.
3
A: Do you know what you want to eat for lunch?
B: What do you feel like having?
B: I had pizza for lunch yesterday.
A: Tell me what you want to eat.
B: Do you want to get a burger?
A: See, I had a burger for lunch yesterday.
B: Think of something.
A: How about I get pizza and you get a burger?
B: Let's do that then.
A: Where do they sell both at?
B: They sell pizza and burgers at the cafeteria.
4. Drinks
1
A: I'm so thirsty.
B: Let's go get something to drink.
A: That's a good idea.
B: Do you know what you want to drink?
A: I kind of want a soda.
A: What do you mean?
B: When you're thirsty, you're not supposed to drink
soda.
A: What are you supposed to drink?
B: Water is what's best for you.
A: I guess I will get water.
B: It's better for you.
48
 XIII. At a Restaurant
1. Choosing a Good Restaurant
1 A: Shogun Restaurant.
A: Devi, have you thought about where would you like
to go to dinner on Friday for your birthday?
B: I am not sure. I don't know that many restaurants
around here.
A: You know, we could look online at the local Internet
sites.
B: Good. Let's take a look!
A: What kind of food would you like for your birthday?
B: I enjoy Thai or Japanese the best.
A: This one, Shogun, looks good.
B: Oh yes, I've heard of that one. Everyone I've spoken
with says that it is great!
A: Would you like to go there then?
B: I think that that would be a really good choice! Let's
call and make a reservation.
2 A: Can you tell me what night you will be coming?
A: Devi, do you have any preference for where you
would like to go for dinner for your birthday?
B: I don't really know where I want to go. I am having
trouble thinking of a particular restaurant.
A: There is a great restaurant directory here in the
weekend section of the newspaper.
B: OK, we could look at that.
A: Do you have a particular type of food that you would
like?
B: I really like Japanese or Thai food.
A: That Japanese restaurant, Shogun, got good reviews.
B: Oh yeah! I saw a review of that restaurant on
television. The reviewer loved it!
A: Would that be a place that you might like to go to for
your birthday?
B: That would work out great! Why don't we call and get
a reservation?
3 like the reservation for.
A: Devi, do you have a favorite place that you would like
to go to for your birthday dinner?
B: I am kind of at a loss right now to think of some place
special.
A: I've got a great guidebook here of local restaurants.
B: That would be a good place to look.
A: What is your favorite type of restaurant food?
B: I like a lot of things, but Thai or Japanese would be
good.
A: Shogun looks pretty good!
B: Oh, I remember that restaurant. I went there years
ago. I really enjoyed it!
A: Would that be a good choice for your birthday dinner
then?
B: I would enjoy going there. Let's call ahead to make
sure that we can get a table for that night.
3. Being Seated at the Restaurant
1 B: May I get an order of barbeque wings?
49
2. Making a Reservation
1
B: Hi, I would like to make a dinner reservation.
A: Of course, what evening will you be joining us on?
B: We will need the reservation for Tuesday night.
A: What time would you like the reservation for?
B: We would prefer 7:00 or 7:30.
A: How many people will you need the reservation for?
B: There will be 4 of us.
A: Fine, I can seat you at 7:00 on Tuesday, if you would
kindly give me your name.
B: Thank you. The last name is Foster.
A: See you at 7:00 this Tuesday, Mr. Foster.
B: Thank you so much. I appreciate your help.
2
A: This is Shogun Restaurant.
B: Hello, I need to make a dinner reservation.
B: We will be coming to your restaurant on Tuesday
night.
A: What time will you be dining with us?
B: Our first choice would be 7:00, or perhaps 7:30.
A: How many guests will be in your party?
B: Four of us will be coming.
A: Please just give me your name, and at 7:00 on
Tuesday we will have a table for you!
B: Great! Our last name is Foster.
A: Thank you, Mr. Foster, see you this Tuesday at 7:00.
B: I look forward to having dinner at your restaurant.
Thank you for your help.
3
A: Shogun Restaurant of Pasadena.
B: Hi, could you help me? I need to make a dinner
reservation.
A: I can help you if you can just tell me what evening you
B: Tuesday night is when we need the reservation for.
A: What time do you think that you would like to have
dinner?
B: 7:00 would be best, or maybe 7:30.
A: How many diners will be in your group?
B: We need a reservation for four.
A: I have a table for four available at 7:00, if you would
just give me your name.
B: My last name is Foster. Thank you for the reservation.
A: Mr. Foster, we will be expecting you this Tuesday at
7:00.
B: We will be there! Thanks for the help!
4. Ordering Food and Drinks
1
A: Can I start you off with anything to drink?
B: Yes, may I have some water, please?
A: Sure, would you like any appetizers today?
50
 XIV. Buying a Car
1. Asking a Friend About Car Insurance
1 A: I am interested in buying auto insurance.
A: What kind of car insurance do you have?
B: I went with the Automobile Club.
A: Why did you choose that company?
B: I looked at the price of the type of insurance that I
wanted.
A: What should I think about in choosing services?
B: There are websites that will figure out what coverage
is right for you.
A: What did you end up buying?
B: Well, my car is very old, so I didn't worry so much
about what it would cost to repair it. I did buy a lot of
coverage for fixing someone else's car.
A: Have you ever had to use your insurance?
B: I never had to use my insurance.
2 2
A: When you insured your car, what kind did you buy?
B: I decided to buy from GEICO.
A: What influenced your choice of companies?
B: I looked at the customer satisfaction rating of the
company.
A: How did you figure out what services to buy?
B: Every individual has different considerations. Your
agent can help you understand what you need to think
about.
A: What did you place an emphasis on when you bought
your insurance?
B: I carry a lot of liability insurance because I own a
house and need to protect it from a lawsuit.
A: Did you ever get into an accident and need your
insurance?
B: I was in an accident and was happy that I had good
insurance to cover it.
3 B: We can take care of that right now. Do you have all of
A: What car insurance company did you decide to go
with when you bought your new car?
B: State Farm seemed like the best deal for me.
A: How did you make that decision?
B: I compared rates and services available.
A: Where can I get help in figuring out what I need to
purchase for coverage?
B: You can pick up a pamphlet at your insurance
company that will explain the options to you.
A: What did you decide to cover yourself for?
B: I pretty much carry the average amount in all
categories as the agent recommended.
A: How many times have you actually used your
insurance?
B: I was in an accident, but it was the other person's
fault and their insurance covered it.
51
2. Buying Insurance
1
B: Sure, I can help you. Did you bring all of your
registration papers?
A: Yes, I brought everything with me.
B: Is your car with you?
A: Yes, it is out in the parking lot.
B: Wonderful. Let's go out and check to see what shape
it is in.
A: OK, can you help me figure out what I should insure
my car for?
B: I will look it up on the Blue Book list and we will factor
in its condition.
A: What else do I need to consider?
B: Yes, you need to figure in liability for damage to the
other car as well as injury issues as well.
A: Good morning, I need to buy car insurance for the
used car I just bought.
B: Yes, no problem. Do you have your registration and
Certificate of Ownership with you?
A: Yes, it is all right here.
B: Did you drive your car here?
A: Yes, it is out in the back.
B: That's great. We'll go out and check the condition of
your car.
A: I understand, what should I insure my car for?
B: There is a Blue Book price for your car and we will use
that price.
A: What other things do I need to insure for?
B: We will factor in damage to the other car as well as
property damage and injury.
3
A: I just bought a used car and need to insure it.
your paperwork with you?
A: Yes, I took care of all of that and have the papers with
me.
B: Did you bring your car with you?
A: Yes, it is parked on the street.
B: Fine, I need to go out with you to check your car for
wear and tear.
A: Fine, how will I know how much I should insure my
car for?
B: After looking at your car, I will use the Blue Book price
and we will consider the condition of the car.
A: Are there other considerations when I insure my car?
B: We always need to think about property damage,
damage to other vehicles, and injury.
4. Declining to Buy the Car
1
 3. Deciding to Buy the Car
1 B: So do you think that you would like to purchase this
A: I really like that car and I am thinking of buying it.
B: Yes, I agree. Do you want to take it to a mechanic to
have it checked out?
A: I already took care of that yesterday.
B: That's good. Have you discussed the price with the
seller?
A: Yes, I think we've agreed upon a fair price.
B: Have you set up your financing to pay for this car?
A: Yes, my parents are going to loan me the money.
B: That's good. Would you like me to go talk to the seller
with you and drive your car home?
A: That would be a great help!
B: Glad to be of help. I can't wait to see your new car!
2 purchasing this car.
A: That car is exactly what I want, so I probably should
buy it.
B: From what I see, it's a good deal. Should a mechanic
check it out for you?
A: A mechanic looked at it for me on Tuesday when I
first looked at it.
B: It's good that you took care of that. Have you agreed
upon a price with the seller?
A: Yes, he was willing to lower his price a bit and I'm
good with that.
B: Do you know how you are going to pay for this car?
A: Yes, I have already pre-qualified for a loan with my
credit union.
B: You are very well prepared! I could go with you to talk
to the seller and help you get your car home.
A: I appreciate the offer of help!
B: It will be my pleasure to help you. I am looking
forward to riding in your new car.
3 for a car.
A: I think that that car drove really well and is a good
deal.
B: It seems to be a good choice for you. You might want
to have a mechanic take a look at it just to be sure.
A: My friend is a mechanic and he came and looked at it
for me this morning.
B: That was smart of you to think ahead. Have you and
the seller agreed upon a price?
A: Yes, he is willing to accept the price that I offered
him.
B: Have you thought about how to pay for your car?
A: I saved up enough money to pay cash for this car.
B: You've really thought this through. Let me go with
you to make the payment and drive your car home for
you.
A: That would make it a lot easier for me.
B: Let's go take care of that right now. I really want to
see your new car!
5. Detecting a Problem with the Car
52
A: Thank you for letting me test drive the car.
car?
A: You know, I am not interested in purchasing the car
right now.
B: What's the problem? We can at least sit down and
maybe work out a deal.
A: Actually, I have several other cars to look at before I
make my decision.
B: What didn't you like about the car? Maybe I can fix
something for you.
A: It is a combination of things, but I appreciate your
time.
B: I have some other cars you might want to look at.
A: Again, I appreciate your time but I will not be
B: Give me a call if you change your mind. Have a good
day.
2
A: I appreciate you letting me take the car out for a spin.
B: Why don't you come over here and we can work out
the details of the purchase?
A: I don't think that this is the car for me at this point in
time.
B: It's a great deal. Let's talk price. Maybe you'll change
your mind.
A: This is only the first car that I've looked at.
B: Is there something in particular that didn't look good
to you?
A: It isn't one thing in particular, but I think I can do
better for my money.
B: I really think that you should reconsider.
A: Thank you again for your time.
B: Thank you for stopping by. Good luck in your search
3
A: I enjoyed taking the car out for a test drive.
B: Isn't that a great car? Let's work out the details of
purchase.
A: I will not be purchasing the car today.
B: Why don't you take a second look at that car? You'll
see that it is as good a deal as you are going to get.
A: I need to compare this car to others to make an
informed choice.
B: You said on the phone that this is the kind of car you
wanted. What has changed your mind?
A: I just really need to make sure that I get the best car
for my money.
B: You know, you can look around but I just don't think
that you are going to get a better deal for your money.
A: I will continue looking around for cars and will get
back to you if I change my mind.
B: OK, then. Have a good day.
6. How to Pay for the Used Car
1 1
A: I was thinking about buying this used car, and was
wondering if you would take a look at it for me to see if
it has any problems.
B: Sure, pull up over there and we'll take a look.
A: I just wasn't sure what to look for.
B: The first thing you do is look for any signs of wear
both inside and out. We will also look at the body for
signs of major repair.
A: Someone told me that I could go online and see if the
car is listed as having been in a major accident.
B: Yes, that's right. Next, we will turn on the engine and I
will check under the hood to look at the hoses and belts.
A: Should we take the car for a drive?
B: Yes, but before we pull away, let's check to make sure
that the radio, turn signals, lights, and seats all work
properly.
A: As I am driving what should I be checking?
B: You want to make sure that the brakes don't pull to
one side and that the car has good alignment and
acceleration.
A: Thanks for your help.
B: You are welcome. Enjoy driving your car!
2 used car?
A: Could you take a few minutes and see if there are any
problems with this used car that I am thinking of buying?
B: I am happy to help. Just pull up and we'll give it a
good look.
A: I don't know much about cars.
B: We need to look inside and outside for signs of an
accident or major damage. Also, we need to look for
wear on the tires.
A: If I go online I can also check to see if the car has been
involved in a major accident.
B: Yes, you can check the history of the car online. Next,
we need to turn on the engine and take a look at the
belts and hoses.
A: Will you take a drive with me to check handling?
B: A test drive would be good. But first let's make sure
that the turn signals, radio, lights, and seats work
properly.
A: On a test drive, what should I look for?
B: We are checking for solid braking and good overall
handling.
A: I appreciate you helping me figure out what to look
for.
B: My pleasure. This seems to be a solid car and a good
choice for you.
3 B: You really need that money so that a bank or finance
A: I want to buy this used car, but I need help figuring
out if there are any problems with it.
B: I can help you with that. Drive the car over by the
garage and we'll check it out.
A: I know some things to look for, but I know there are
53
A: I am buying a used car and don't know much about
financing it.
B: I can help you. Do you have a down payment?
A: Yes, I have saved up three thousand dollars for a
down payment.
B: Good, because you will not be able to get a loan
without putting some money down on the car.
A: I don't know where exactly to get a loan.
B: Other than friends or family, you can go to a bank,
credit union, or use the dealer financing if you bought
the car off a car lot.
A: What is the best choice for financing?
B: It depends. The worst financing deal is usually at the
dealer, but they will oftentimes give you a loan when a
bank turns you down.
A: What do I need to have with me when I apply for the
loan?
B: You will need a recent pay stub and a copy of the pink
slip for the car. Before the loan is complete, you will
need to show proof of insurance. Good luck!
2
A: Can you help me learn about financing options for a
B: I would love to help you with what I know. I am
assuming that you have a down payment.
A: Yes, I already borrowed some money from my
parents for the down payment.
B: That will work. A bank or finance company will not
loan you money without a down payment.
A: I am not sure who will loan money to me.
B: You can apply for a loan at a bank, credit union, or
approach the used car dealer who sold you the car. You
might also try family and friends.
A: Who offers the best interest rate?
B: A credit union will usually give you the best interest
rate, but the dealer will almost always give you some
type of loan.
A: Do I need any documents when I apply for a car loan?
B: Be sure that you take a recent pay stub and a copy of
the pink slip. You will have a few days to produce proof
of insurance. Enjoy your new car!
3
A: I need help figuring out how to pay for a used car that
I am thinking of buying.
B: I would be happy to help you. Have you saved up a
down payment?
A: I will be getting money from selling my old car.
company will loan you the rest of the money that you
need.
A: Who gives loans out to people wanting to buy cars?
B: Usually people go to a bank, credit union, or, if they
bought the car at a car lot, they might use the dealer
other special things to look for.
B: Always start with looking for signs of major damage
that may have been repaired and also check tire wear.
A: If the car has been in a major accident, that should
have been recorded online.
B: Right. All major accidents should have been recorded.
Next start the car up, pop the hood, and we'll take a look
at the belts and hoses.
A: I would like for you to take a test drive with me.
B: We'll do that in a minute, but first we should check
that the radio, turn signals, and all of the lights work
properly.
A: As we drive, what am I checking for?
B: You want to make sure that the alignment is good,
that the engine accelerates smoothly, and that the car
can safely brake to a stop.
A: I like knowing what to look for when buying a used
car and appreciate the help.
B: This car is in good shape and should give you no
major problems. Enjoy it!
7. Making an Appointment with the DMV
1 B: No, that's way less than I could accept. However, I
A: I need to go to the DMV and don't know how to make
an appointment with them.
B: First of all you need to figure out if you really need to
be there in person. Sometimes you can take care of your
business at the Automobile Club or at the DMV website.
A: If I do need to go in, how can I make an appointment?
B: You can either make an appointment by going online
or by calling the phone number listed on their website.
A: What if I just show up there?
B: If you have all day to wait and a good book to read,
that might work for you.
A: Is the DMV open on Saturdays?
B: Due to state budget cuts, the DMV is no longer open
on Saturdays.
A: I think that you have just convinced me to join the
Automobile Club!
B: Yes, the Automobile Club takes all the pain out of
DMV transactions!
2 B: Perfect! That works for both of us.
A: How can I make an appointment at the DMV?
B: You could check the DMV website or see if the
Automobile Club could help you. Many things can be
taken care of without actually going in to the DMV in
person.
A: How do I make an appointment if I have to actually go
in?
B: You have two choices. You can call them at the
number listed on their website or you can contact them
online.
A: Can I just walk in and get help?
B: Without an appointment, you will be waiting for
many hours. I would not advise it.
A: Can I take care of this on a Saturday?
54
finance company.
A: What is the best place to get financing?
B: The dealer will charge you a higher interest rate, but
sometimes they are your only choice if you are just
starting out.
A: Will I need some documentation when I apply for the
loan?
B: Just make sure that you bring them your last pay stub
and a copy of the pink slip. You can then work on getting
insured. Enjoy your new car!
8. Negotiating a Price with a Student
1
A: This car is exactly what I want!
B: I am glad that you like it. I've had good experiences
with this car.
A: So, how much do you want for the car?
B: Well, the price in the paper was five thousand dollars.
A: Yes, I know, but I think that might be a little high for
this car.
B: I might be able to come down a little on the price.
A: How about selling the car for four thousand?
could accept forty-five hundred.
A: That sounds fair to me.
B: It's a deal then. Thank you!
2
A: I really love this car!
B: Great! I was hoping that it would go to a driver who
appreciates it.
A: How much are you willing to take for the car?
B: As I am sure you noticed, the price on the window is
five thousand dollars.
A: Don't you think you could come down a bit on the
price?
B: You seem like a nice person. Maybe I could lower the
price a bit.
A: Would you sell it to me for four thousand?
B: I am thinking more in the line of four thousand five
hundred.
A: I'll take it then!
3
A: I am definitely interested in buying this car.
B: Wonderful! It's good to find a person who really
needs this car.
A: What is the price for this car?
B: The price I listed on eBay was five thousand dollars.
A: I was thinking that maybe you might be willing to
lower the price a bit.
B: You know I just got a good deal on my new car. I think
I can afford to knock a little off of this car.
A: I was thinking that four thousand would be a good
price.
B: I couldn't go that low, but I could sell it for forty-five
B: Unfortunately, the DMV is no longer open on
Saturdays.
A: It probably would be easier for me to join the
Automobile Club.
B: The Automobile Club has many benefits, and taking
care of your DMV transactions is one of the best
benefits.
3 A: Yes, I would love to take it for a drive.
A: Can you help me figure out how to make an
appointment with the DMV?
B: I would try to avoid going in to the DMV in person. If
you are a member of the Automobile Club, they
oftentimes can take care of things for you or you can try
the DMV website.
A: It would be nice not to have to go in but if I have to,
how do I make an appointment?
B: The easiest way to contact them is online, but they
also have a phone number listed on the website if you
prefer to call them on the phone.
A: What do they do if you just show up with no
appointment?
B: That is not a good way to go. You could be left waiting
for many hours and there is no guarantee that they will
see you at all!
A: What about going to the DMV on Saturday?
B: For a while the DMV was open on Saturday, but not
anymore.
A: I think that the Automobile Club idea was a good
suggestion.
B: You should check out the Automobile Club. I think you
would enjoy being a member.
9. Negotiating a Price with a Dealer
1 3
A: How much does this car cost?
B: Well, come on in and we'll sit down and discuss that
right now. How much do you want to pay?
A: I really was just wondering what the price is.
B: Well, figuring in tax, license, dealer prep, and
registration, I can let this car go for fifteen thousand
dollars.
A: I was thinking a little lower than that.
B: Whoa! Let's keep talking here. I am sure we can work
something out. What price are you thinking is fair?
A: I was thinking more like thirteen thousand dollars.
B: You know, you look like you are a sweet kid. I'll give it
to you for fourteen thousand dollars.
A: That would be a good price if the car was in great
shape, but it is registered as having been in an accident.
B: OK, thirteen thousand seven hundred and fifty, and
that's my final offer.
2 B: I have always purchased my used cars from an
A: If I want to buy this car, what will it cost me?
B: Let me get my contract out, and we'll figure that out
for you right now.
55
hundred.
A: That would work well for me.
B: It's done then. I've enjoyed doing business with you.
10. Test Driving the Car
1
A: I really love the look of this car.
B: Would you like to test drive this car?
B: I'll go get the keys, and you can get out your Driver's
License and Proof of Insurance.
A: Here's my Driver's License and Proof of Insurance.
B: Well, just sign this card, and we'll be on our way.
Don't forget to buckle your seatbelt!
A: Can I take it on the freeway to check for acceleration?
B: That would be fine; just don't exceed the speed limit!
A: This car handles great, and I love it!
B: I am glad that you like this car.
2
A: The styling of this car really appeals to me.
B: Would you like to take this car for a spin?
A: That would be a great idea.
B: Fine, all I'll need from you is your Driver's License and
Proof of Insurance.
A: I've got my Driver's License and Proof of Insurance
ready.
B: OK, after you sign this card, we'll take a spin. Make
sure you buckle your seatbelt!
A: I would like to go on the freeway to test it for speed.
B: As long as you don't exceed the speed limit, that
would be fine.
A: Whoa, this car has wonderful pickup!
B: Yes, this is a very popular car.
A: Wow, what a cool car!
B: How about taking this car out for a drive to see if you
like how it handles?
A: I would enjoy seeing how it handles.
B: While I'm getting the keys, you just need to take out
your Driver's License and Proof of Insurance.
A: I found my Driver's License and Proof of Insurance.
B: Great! Sign this card, buckle your seatbelt, and we'll
hit the road.
A: I want to take the car up to freeway speed.
B: Take a left at the next signal to enter the freeway. Just
keep it under the speed limit!
A: This car has a nice smooth ride, even on the freeway.
B: You know, I've driven it myself, and I agree with you.
12. Where to Buy a Used Car
1
A: Where is the best place to buy a used car?
advertisement in the paper, but actually you have many
options.
A: Where else could I look for a car?
A: Can't you just tell me what it costs?
B: You know, I am prepared to offer you a great deal
today on that car. With tax, license, registration, and
dealer prep, the total will be fifteen thousand dollars.
A: Fine, I'll come back later with my father, who is a
lawyer, and we can talk then.
B: I am sure that we can work something out. What
price were you thinking would be a good deal for you?
A: Thirteen thousand would be more like it.
B: Fourteen thousand for this car is a good price. For
that I am practically giving it away.
A: Normally that would be a good price, but that car has
been in an accident.
B: Yes, I see your point. Thirteen thousand seven
hundred and fifty is my final offer.
3 B: There are a lot of different ways to go. I bought my
A: How much money for this car?
B: Yes, that car is beautiful, isn't it? Come on inside and
we'll discuss the price.
A: I just want to know the price.
B: Fifteen thousand out the door! What a deal! That will,
of course, include tax, license, registration, and dealer
prep.
A: I appreciate your help, and I'll see you later.
B: Oh, you look like a smart person. What price would be
fair to you?
A: I think that thirteen thousand would be fair for this
car.
B: I can see that you are a smart buyer. Fourteen
thousand is my best price.
A: If the car hadn't been in an accident, that would be a
good price, but it has a few minor problems.
B: Thirteen thousand seven hundred and fifty is my final
offer.
11. Title Transfer
1 newspaper, but there are a lot of other places to look for
A: Now I've decided to buy this car, how do I transfer
the title to myself?
B: Actually, your best bet is to contact the Automobile
Club or to go to the DMV website.
A: Basically, what will I need to do?
B: Both buyer and seller need to transfer the ownership
by filling out a Change of Ownership form and signing
over the Certificate of Title, which will be either pink or
rainbow.
A: Will I have to pay any fees?
B: All of the transfer fees are the responsibility of the
buyer.
A: How much will it cost to transfer the title?
B: The DMV has a special formula that they use to
calculate the fees. They will figure it out for you.
A: Do I need a Smog Certificate?
B: No, only if your car was manufactured before 1975.
A: Where do I take my forms?
B: You can take them to the DMV. You have ten days to
56
B: You could look on the Internet. Craigslist is best, as
most of the cars listed there are sold locally.
A: What would be best if I wanted to actually go see a
lot of used cars that are for sale?
B: The best place is CarMax, which is a very large used
car lot.
A: Where is CarMax?
B: There are many of them. You can look on the Internet
or in the phone book for the one closest to you.
A: How about the listings on the college bulletin board?
B: Actually, that is not a bad way to go, especially near
the end of a semester as students are moving away.
2
A: Can you help me figure out the best place to buy a
used car?
last one from an advertisement in the paper.
A: What are my other options for looking for a used car?
B: Internet listings are good. Craigslist is pretty good
because most of the cars are sold locally.
A: I think that I might actually like to see many used cars
together so I can compare them.
B: The biggest used car lot is CarMax. I would check that
place out.
A: How can I find out where CarMax is?
B: Look in the phone book or on the Internet for the one
closest to you. There are a lot of them.
A: Have you ever seen the listings on the school bulletin
board?
B: The school bulletin board can have some great deals,
as many students sell their cars before they return home
or as they get better paying jobs.
3
A: Where did you buy your last used car?
B: I found my last one in an advertisement in the
used cars.
A: Besides an advertisement, what else could I do to find
a used car?
B: My friend bought his used car off of Craigslist. It
works out better than eBay because the cars listed are
located close by.
A: Is there anywhere I can go to see many used cars all
in the same place?
B: Go to CarMax if you want to see the largest selection
of used cars in one place.
A: I don't know where CarMax is.
B: CarMax has many car lots in many cities. For the one
closest to you, check out the Internet or phone book.
A: Have you ever known anyone who bought a car off a
listing on the university bulletin board?
B: You can get a good deal there. Especially at the end of
the year, when students are selling things and returning
home.
complete the process.
2
A: I don't really know all that much about the paperwork
involved in buying a used car.
B: If you are a member of the Automobile Club, they can
help guide you through the process, or just go to the
DMV website.
A: What is the big picture of what I will need to take care
of?
B: The car has a pink or rainbow Certificate of Title,
which both the buyer and seller need to sign. They also
both need to fill out the Change of Ownership form.
A: Who pays the fees to transfer the ownership?
B: The buyer must pay all of the fees.
A: Will it be really expensive to transfer the title?
B: The DMV will calculate the fees for you when you
submit the paperwork.
A: What about a Smog Certificate?
B: No, your car was built after 1974, so you will be fine.
A: Where can I turn in my forms?
B: If you are a member of the Automobile Club, you can
turn in your forms to them.
3
A: Can you help me figure out how to transfer the title
of the car I wish to buy so it will be registered in my
name?
B: You can go to the DMV website for information or, if
you are a member of the Automobile Club, they can be
very helpful.
A: Can you just fill me in on what needs to be done?
B: When you both fill out and sign a Change of
Ownership form and sign the Certificate of Title, the
ownership will be transferred.
A: Are there any fees involved?
B: As the buyer, you are responsible for all of the fees.
A: How much money will I have to pay to transfer the
title?
B: The only way to calculate the fee is to turn your
paperwork in to the DMV, and they will figure it out for
you.
A: Do I need to take the car in for a Smog Certificate?
B: No, your car is a newer model, so you won't need
one.
A: Whom do I give my forms to when they are
completed?
B: Check online for special situations, but usually you
can mail your forms in to the DMV.
13. At the Window of the DMV
1
A: Could you tell me what window I should go to?
B: Do you have an appointment?
A: Yes, I have an appointment.
B: The DMV windows are set up for different tasks.
What are you here to do?

57
A: I need to transfer ownership of a used car.
B: I can see that you have all of your forms filled out.
Drop the forms in that box, and I will call you when your
name comes up.
A: Thanks for helping me.
B: You are welcome. May I see your current Driver's
License?
A: Here is my license, it is not a very good picture of me!
B: That's a pretty good picture. Just pay the fee over at
the last window and you're done!
2
A: This is my first time at the DMV, and I don't know
what window to go to.
B: It depends on what you are doing. Did you make an
appointment?
A: I made an appointment last month.
B: All of the windows are for specific services. What do
you need to do today?
A: I just bought a used car and need to transfer the
ownership.
B: If you just put all of your filled-out forms in the drop
box, your name will be called when it comes up.
A: Thank you, that helps me know what to do.
B: My pleasure. The only other thing I need is your
current Driver's License.
A: Here is my license, it is a very old picture of me!
B: You look good in that picture. Take this over to the
last window to pay your fee, and you've finished
registering your car.
3
A: Could you help direct me to the proper window?
B: There are different windows for different things. Did
you make an appointment on the Internet?
A: I made my appointment over the Internet.
B: Different windows will be able to help you with
different problems. What do you need help with?
A: I need help transferring the ownership of a new car
from my friend to myself.
B: The signed forms go in the box, and I will call your
name in a few minutes.
A: Thank you for making it seem less confusing.
B: If you would give me your current Driver's License, I
will be able to complete the transfer process.
A: Here is my license, I never really liked that picture!
B: That is a great picture! Take the forms over to the last
window to pay your fees and you're finished!

58
 XV. Driving 2. Taking the Written Test
1. Applying For a Driving Permit 1
1 A: Have you taken the written test yet?
A: I would like to apply for a permit. B: No, I haven't.
B: Can I see your ID? A: You should study before you take it.
A: No, I left it in the car. B: I have been studying.
B: I'm going to need to see your ID and $27 for your A: Why don't you take the test?
permit. B: Do you know if it costs any money to take it?
A: One moment while I go and get my ID. A: Since you already paid for your permit, you don't
B: Make it quick. have to pay again.
A: Here's my ID and the $27. B: All right. Do you know if the test covers the whole
B: Thanks. Now fill this out. book?
A: Do you have a pen that I can use? A: No, the test skips a lot of things in the book.
B: Use this one. B: Did you pass it the first time that you took it?
A: Thanks a lot. A: No, I didn't, because it was pretty hard.
B: You're welcome. Turn the application in at Window B. B: Well, I hope that I do well.
2 2
A: Can I apply for a permit today? A: Did you take the written test?
B: I need to see your ID. B: I haven't taken it yet.
A: I think I forgot it in the car. A: Make sure to study first.
B: You need to give me your ID and $27. B: I study every night.
A: I'm going to go and get my ID from the car right now. A: I'm sure you're ready.
B: Go get it. B: Does it cost money?
A: Here you go. A: No, it doesn't cost anything.
B: All right, I'm going to need you to fill this out. B: Does the test cover everything in the manual?
A: May I borrow your pen? A: It skips around.
B: Here's a pen for you. B: Did you pass the test your first try?
A: Thanks for your help. A: I thought it would be easy, but I didn't pass it.
B: You need to turn that in at Window B. B: Wish me luck.
3 3
A: I really need to apply for a driving permit. A: Have you already taken the written test?
B: Do you have your ID with you? B: Not yet.
A: I may have left my ID in my car. A: You really need to study for it.
B: Well, I need your ID and $27. B: I already know. I have been studying.
A: I'll go get it really quick. A: You should probably go and take it then.
B: Please hurry. B: I'm not sure, but does it cost anything to take it?
A: Here it is. A: No, because you applied for your permit and you paid
B: Thank you very much. Please fill out this paperwork. already.
A: I need to use a pen. B: Will the test be on everything in the manual?
B: Here you go. A: It doesn't cover everything.
A: Thank you very much. B: When you took the test, did you pass it the first time?
B: Thank you. Now turn in your application at Window B. A: No, I didn't pass it.
3. Learning How to Drive (1) B: Hopefully, I won't fail the test.
1 4. Learning How to Drive (2)
A: You know how to drive, right? 1
B: I'm pretty good. A: Do you want to practice your driving right now?
A: Do you think you can teach me? B: No problem. We can do it right now.
B: Did you get your learner's permit yet? A: Are you buckled up?
A: I have it already. B: All right. Now what do I do?
B: Do you have any experience driving a car? A: Start the car.
A: I've only done it once. B: Which way do you want me to go?
B: Do you know all the controls in the car? A: Take a left.
A: Yes, I am aware of them. B: How far do you want me to go?
B: When do you want to start learning how to drive? A: I'll tell you when to stop.
A: Whenever you have time. B: Just make sure to tell me beforehand.
59
60
 XVI. Health 2. A Medical Emergency
1. A Car Accident 1
1 A: What seems to be the problem?
A: Was there an accident on the freeway today? B: Oh, my God! It's my stomach. It's killing me!
B: You haven't heard about it? A: Where does it hurt the most?
A: No, do you know what happened? B: Right here! It hurts right here!
B: This truck flipped over on the 210. A: How long has it felt like this?
A: Are you serious? B: I felt OK when I woke up, and then, suddenly, I had
B: I'm telling you the truth. this really sharp pain.
A: Did anyone get hurt? A: Do you have a history of stomach pain?
B: Two people were injured. B: No, and I haven't done anything out of the ordinary.
A: Are they going to be okay? A: I think that we are going to have to get you to an
B: I think so. emergency room right away.
A: That's a miracle that no one was killed. B: Thank you for helping me.
B: Yes, they were lucky. 2
2 A: Can you tell me where it hurts?
A: What happened today on the freeway? B: I am so glad they called you. It feels like something is
B: You don't know what happened? really wrong with my stomach!
A: What did happen? A: Does it hurt when I push here?
B: There was a truck on the freeway, and it flipped over. B: It's mostly on my right side. Right here!
A: Really? A: Have you been feeling this way for awhile?
B: I wouldn't lie about something like that. B: I started feeling kind of sick last night after dinner, but
A: Were there any injuries? this morning the pain got really bad!
B: I heard that a couple people got hurt. A: Have you eaten anything unusual lately?
A: Are they all right? B: No, not that I remember.
B: The news said they should be fine. A: We are going to take you to an emergency room right
A: I'm glad to know that everyone made it out okay. now.
B: Me too. B: I will feel better when I know what the problem is.
3 Thank you.
A: I heard there was an accident today. 3
B: Nobody told you what happened? A: Where are you feeling the pain?
A: Tell me the news. B: I can't stand up! My stomach is killing me!
B: A truck turned over on the freeway. A: Can you put your hand where it hurts the most?
A: Are you kidding me? B: It hurts smack in the middle of my gut!
B: I am completely serious. A: Did this just come on suddenly?
A: Did anyone get hurt? B: I felt OK until an hour or so ago, and then I just
B: I believe that two people did get hurt. doubled over.
A: Were the injuries minor? A: Have you exercised strenuously or played sports
B: I believe so. recently?
A: That's great to hear. B: No, and I don't usually get a lot of stomachaches.
B: Yes, it is. A: We need to get you to an emergency room to see
3. Going to an Emergency Room what the problem is.
1 B: I think that that is the best way to figure out what is
A: Sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if you could causing this. Thank you.
drive me to the emergency room. 4. A Stomachache
B: Of course. What is the problem? 1
A: I am running a really high fever of 105 degrees, and I A: You don't look so good.
have a rash on my stomach. B: I have a major stomachache
B: If you can, go and unlock the back door, so I can get in A: Did you eat something strange?
when I get there if you fall asleep. B: I had spaghetti with clam sauce for lunch.
A: I can do that when I get off of the phone. A: Maybe you have food poisoning.
B: Do you know where your driver's license and B: Yes, that could have been it, but I haven't been
insurance card are? feeling that great for the past few days.
A: I already had them out before I called you. A: Are you under a lot of stress?
B: Where is your nearest emergency room? B: Not really. Things have been going OK.
61
62
 XVII. Employment
1. How to Find a Job
1 A: Could you help me try and figure out how to get
A: I was wondering if you could help me use the Student
Job Center.
B: There are many ways; what kind of job would you
like?
A: I want to work in a restaurant.
B: Fine! Will you need part-time or full-time work?
A: I want to work part-time.
B: Fine, the two best ways are to use our local listings
binders over there or you can use the computers with
the Internet job listing sites. See them over there?
A: Yes, I know what to do.
B: Well, in addition, you can schedule an appointment
with a job counselor on this list. If you would like to do
that, sign here, OK?
A: Yes, I think that would be great.
B: Fine, well the job search tools are all here for you to
use. Feel free to look around and use what works best
for you. Have fun with it!
2 great!
A: Could you help me figure out how to look for a job?
B: We have lots of options, what type of job do you
need?
A: I want to work in an office.
B: Do you want to work part-time or full-time?
A: I want to work full-time.
B: We have binders with local job listings or you can
make use of the computers. OK?
A: I am confused a bit but I am sure that I can figure it
out.
B: If you make an appointment with a job counselor,
they can also provide you with a lot of information. Do
you want to see a counselor?
A: No, I don't think I need to do that.
B: Well, you know that this job center is here for your
use, so help yourself. Good luck!
3 B: Focus on being relaxed and open, don't forget to
A: What is the best way to find a job here?
B: There are different ways of conducting a job search.
Do you know what you want to do?
A: I don't know.
B: Can you work part-time or full-time?
A: It doesn't matter right now, either one would be OK.
B: The binders have current local jobs listings and the
computer jobs lists are good too. Understand?
A: OK, I'll go check it out.
B: Schedule an appointment with a counselor and you
can get more information. Would that work for you?
A: I am not sure.
B: Everything that you need for a successful job search is
here. Happy job searching!
3. Greeting by Receptionist
1 A: I need a lot of help in this area.
63
2. Preparing for a Job Interview
1
ready for my job interview?
B: The most important thing to do is to make sure you
know the company and what services or products it
provides. Do you know all about them?
A: Yes, I pretty much understand the company.
B: Well, after you've done your research, you have to
decide whether the company is casual or formal. Have
you decided what they are yet?
A: Yes, I've been observing them.
B: When you are choosing what to wear, keep all of that
in mind. Have you chosen what to wear?
A: I already have something to wear.
B: I would always be ready to go shopping with you!
Should we talk about other basics?
A: I am ready to think of other things.
B: You need to make sure you arrive on time, smile, be
pleasant and friendly, look the person in the eye and
answer all questions to the best of your ability. You'll do
2
A: I am not sure what to do to get ready for my job
interview.
B: Make sure that you understand the company. Do you
understand what it is that they do?
A: No, I probably need to do some more research.
B: When you've finished your research it will help you
figure out whether your company is rigid in philosophy
or kind of more relaxed. Does that make sense?
A: I think that their attitude is rather casual.
B: So all of that information will help you to pick out
what to wear. Do you have something to wear?
A: I have absolutely nothing so far.
B: I could go shopping with you sometime if you need it,
but can we talk about other basics?
A: Yes, where should we go from here?
smile and shake hands and be genuinely interested in
what their company is about. I'm sure you'll do well.
3
A: What should I do to prepare for a job interview?
B: An understanding of the basic workings of a company
and the services or goods it provides is essential. Do you
have that?
A: Sort of, but I could know more, I guess.
B: With that understanding, you can figure out what
your company is looking for in terms of basic attitude.
Right?
A: I think that they are a very formal company.
B: What you wear is important. So keep in mind what is
suitable for the company and type of work you will be
doing. Need help?
64
 XVIII. Unemployment
1. Collecting Unemployment Benefits
1 A: What forms should I fill out to collect unemployment?
A: I was wondering if I could collect unemployment
benefits.
B: Did you get laid off?
A: I am still working for now, but I might get laid off.
B: You may collect unemployment if you are working
fewer hours or got laid off.
A: Does everyone who gets laid off get to collect
unemployment?
B: No, some jobs are exempt from paying into
unemployment.
A: How can I find out if I can collect?
B: Your employer can tell you if you have been paying
into unemployment and now qualify to collect.
A: How will I know how much I can collect on
unemployment?
B: It depends on how much you earned. When you file,
they will determine the amount.
2 an interview.
A: Can I collect unemployment benefits?
B: Are you still working?
A: My employer cut back on my hours.
B: If you got laid off or are working a lot fewer hours,
you may qualify.
A: Do I definitely get to collect unemployment?
B: Not all jobs pay into unemployment insurance, so
their employees cannot collect benefits.
A: How do I check out my status to collect
unemployment?
B: You should have noticed unemployment insurance
being deducted from your paycheck. Check your pay
stubs.
A: How much will my unemployment check be?
B: The more money you made, the more you will earn
on unemployment. They have a formula.
3 B: You need to be interviewed over the phone. They will
A: How do I know if I qualify for unemployment
benefits?
B: Are you working fewer hours than you used to work?
A: I got laid off.
B: You usually qualify if you got laid off or are working a
lot fewer hours.
A: Do all jobs provide unemployment?
B: Most jobs provide unemployment, but some don't.
A: Do you think that my job pays unemployment?
B: You can call your unemployment office, and they can
check for you.
A: Will I be able to collect a lot of money on
unemployment?
B: There is a formula to determine the amount based on
how much you earned. They will let you know when you
file your claim.
65
2. Forms to Fill Out
1
B: You need to fill out a special form to apply for
unemployment benefits.
A: Where do I get the application form for
unemployment benefits?
B: You can call the Employment Development Office and
request a form.
A: What information will I need to provide to apply for
unemployment?
B: Be prepared to provide your employer's name and
address and what dates you worked.
A: What else will the Employment Development Office
need?
B: You need to be prepared to show that your
unemployment is not your fault. If you have a
termination notice, that would be great.
A: What will happen next?
B: The Employment Development Office will call you for
2
A: How do I know what forms to fill out for
unemployment?
B: There is a special form to apply for unemployment
benefits.
A: How do I get the form to apply for unemployment
benefits?
B: You can go online to begin the application process.
A: What type of information will I have to provide to the
Employment Development Office?
B: You need to be able to say whom you worked for and
when.
A: Will they need anything else from me?
B: You should be able to provide a layoff notice or proof
of severance.
A: What should I do after I turn in the application?
set up a time for you.
3
A: Are there any special unemployment forms I need to
fill out?
B: You need to get a special application form.
A: Do you know where I can find the application form?
B: You can go to the Employment Development Office
and pick it up.
A: What records will I have to show to apply for
unemployment benefits?
B: They will need a record showing who you worked for
and when you worked for them.
A: Is there anything else I will need to provide?
B: Be prepared to show a written notice of your
termination as proof.
A: Do I need to do anything else after I turn in the
 3. Questions about the Forms
1 B: You will receive a notice for a phone interview, which
A: After I am accepted for unemployment benefits, what
will happen next?
B: You will receive a Notice of Unemployment Insurance
Award letter.
A: What will that tell me?
B: The Award Letter will tell you how much you will
receive weekly.
A: Are there any other forms that I need to fill out?
B: You will need to fill out a Continued Claim Form every
two weeks.
A: What information will I need to provide on that form?
B: They will need to know where you worked and how
much money you made.
A: Are there any other questions on the form?
B: Basically, they want to know that you were available
for work and not sick.
2 away?
A: Will they send me a form telling me that I have been
granted unemployment?
B: A Notice of Unemployment Insurance Award letter
will be sent to you.
A: What information will be in that letter?
B: The Award Letter will inform you as to how much you
will receive.
A: What other forms will I need to turn in?
B: Every two weeks you will receive a Continued Claim
Form that you must turn in.
A: What will they be asking me on that form?
B: You must show that you were available and that you
looked for work.
A: What else will they ask me?
B: One of the questions they ask you is if you were well
enough to work.
3 A: If I show up in person, will I get my money any faster?
A: Will I get notification that I qualify for
unemployment?
B: The Employment Development Office will send you a
Notice of Unemployment Insurance Award letter.
A: What is contained in that letter?
B: In addition to telling you how much you will receive,
the beginning and ending dates of your claim will be
included.
A: Will the Award Letter tell me what I need to fill out
next?
B: You will receive a Continued Claim Form and every
two weeks, you must turn it in.
A: When I fill out the Continued Claim Form, what will I
need to tell them?
B: You must show where and when you tried to look for
work. If you earned any money, you need to tell them
about it.
A: What other information does the form ask for?
66
application?
will continue the process.
4. EDD Office
1
A: How do I get to the EDD?
B: Actually, you do not need to go into the office to file a
claim. You can do it over the phone or the Internet.
A: Can I go in to look for a job at their office?
B: That's a good decision. They have many good job
search tools there.
A: Is there an office near me?
B: The Internet has a list of Employment Development
Offices listed online.
A: Do you know where the local office for this area is?
B: Our office is over on Green Street, just west of the
college.
A: If I go there, will I be able to collect money right
B: Everyone has a one-week waiting period before they
can collect.
2
A: I don't know where the EDD office is.
B: The whole process can be done over the phone or
Internet. You don't need to go into the office.
A: What about their job help information?
B: The office has many wonderful workshops to help you
find a job.
A: Where can I find my local office?
B: Employment Development Offices are listed in the
phone book.
A: Have you ever seen the office that serves our local
area?
B: The office is two blocks west of the college on Green
Street.
B: You have to wait one week before you can collect,
regardless of how you file.
3
A: Can you help me find out where the EDD office is?
B: There is very little need to go to the Unemployment
Office to apply. It can all be done over the Internet or
you can phone in to get an application.
A: I want to make use of their job hotline and the
information on the computers.
B: The office has many job listings to help you with your
job search.
A: How do I find out where my local office is located?
B: You can dial information, and the operator can give
you the phone number and address of the office.
A: What is the office that serves our area?
B: I am not sure, but I think that it is in the building on
Green Street just west of the college.
A: I think I might go over there so I will get my money
B: You have to tell them if you were too sick to work on
any of the days that you should have been looking for
work.
5. Payment Not Received
1 1
A: I am calling to find out why I didn't receive an
unemployment check this week.
B: Did you send in your Continued Claim Form for the
last period?
A: I think I forgot to send it in!
B: You need to be very careful to send that form in every
two weeks if you want to get paid.
A: Can I send it in now?
B: You should look at your claim form and see if it has
been more than fourteen days since it was due. If it
hasn't been, we will still accept it.
A: Can I mail it in early next time so it isn't late?
B: Actually, you cannot mail it in early, as it needs to
reflect all of the information up to the due date.
A: Will my paycheck come right away now?
B: Your check will arrive a little late.
2 A: I have a question about my payment and need
A: Could you help me figure out why I am missing my
unemployment check for this week?
B: I hope that you remembered to send in your last
Continued Claim Form.
A: I am pretty sure that I didn't send that claim form in.
B: You have to send that form in every two weeks so we
that we will know what to pay you.
A: Can I mail it in late?
B: If it is not more than fourteen days past its due date,
then you may still mail it in.
A: I think that I will mail it in right away when I get it
next time, so I won't be late.
B: You can't mail it in early because you don't know, in
advance, how much you will be working.
A: Even though I was late turning in my form, will my
paycheck be late?
B: Yes, your check will be a little late in getting to you.
3 you can have your claim closed.
A: I didn't receive an unemployment check this week
and need to know why.
B: Did you mail us your last Continued Claim Form?
A: I am afraid that I forgot to send it in.
B: We cannot pay you unless you turn that form in every
two weeks.
A: Is it too late to mail the Continued Claim Form in
now?
B: It can't be more than fourteen days late for us to
accept it.
A: I will mail it in a little early next time to avoid this
problem.
B: You can't possibly know in advance how much you
will be working. If you mail it in too soon, we will reject
67
quicker.
B: It doesn't matter if you file online or in person. The
wait is still a week for your first check.
6. Reduced Payment
A: Is there someone I can talk to about a payment
question?
B: Yes, we can handle that here. How can I help you?
A: My paycheck that just arrived is less than last week's
check.
B: Did you work at all during the last pay period?
A: Yes, actually, I did make a little bit of money.
B: Did you report it on your Continued Claim Form?
A: Yes, I showed that income on the Continued Claim
Form.
B: Well, we deducted a portion of the income that you
made from this week's check.
A: Maybe I just shouldn't show the income then.
B: That is cheating and, if you get caught, you will be
fined and disqualified from collecting unemployment.
2
someone to help me.
B: Yes, I would be happy to answer a question about
payment. What do you need help with?
A: I can't figure out why my paycheck this week is
smaller than last week's.
B: Did you generate any income during that time
period?
A: I made a little bit of money, but not much.
B: Did that income show up on your last Continued
Claim Form?
A: I claimed the work I did on the last Continued Claim
Form.
B: When you are able to find work and get paid, we
always take away part of your check.
A: That being the case, I don't think that I am going to
show the income next time.
B: Don't do it! If you get caught making false statements,
3
A: I was wondering if someone in your office could help
me with a question I have about my payment.
B: I would be happy to answer any questions you might
have.
A: My paycheck seems to be smaller than the one I
received last week.
B: What about income? Did you make any money during
that period?
A: My old employer gave us a couple days of work
during that period.
B: When you filled out your Continued Claim Form, did
you show that income?
A: Of course I wrote down the work that I had done on
it!
A: Will my paycheck arrive late because I messed up on
my form?
B: Your check will be arriving late, but the next one will
come right on time.
7. Looking for Jobs at EDD
1 penalty if you get caught making false statements.
A: I was wondering if you could go over the services
available at EDD to help me get a job.
B: The best opportunity is called CalJOBS, which is an
Internet-based job placement service that you can make
use of.
A: Do I have to have a computer at home?
B: There are computers at our EDD offices for you to use
in your job search.
A: Do you have any other services available?
B: We have information available about the job market
as well as workshops.
A: What kinds of workshops are available at the EDD?
B: We have workshops in Resume Writing and
Interviewing, to name a few.
A: Are there other places, outside of EDD, that I may
look for work?
B: College job placement services can help.
2 A: How are things going with you?
A: I heard that EDD has special services to help me get a
job.
B: CalJOBS is a great Internet-based placement service
that is available to you.
A: I don't have access to a computer.
B: There is an area at the EDD Center that is set up with
computers for you to make use of.
A: Is there anything else at the EDD offices to help me
with my job search?
B: We can provide you with information that will help
you understand what is available. We also provide
workshops.
A: If I go to EDD in person, what type of workshops
might I find there?
B: Our two most important workshops are Resume
Writing and Interviewing.
A: What are some other places where I might look for
work?
B: Job fairs are popular places to look for work.
3 find another one quickly.
A: Do you have any job placement services at EDD?
B: The first thing that you should check out is CalJobs,
which is a great Internet-based placement service that
you can use.
A: What about people who don't have a computer?
B: You can search for jobs on the computers at the EDD
offices.
A: What else is there at the EDD offices that can help me
with my job search?
68
the Continued Claim Form.
B: What happens is, when you make money, we take
part of your benefits away.
A: I am not going to show any income from now on
then.
B: I wouldn't do that if I were you. There is a severe
8. Talking to People at EDD
1
A: Hey there, how are you doing?
B: I am great. How are you?
A: Well, I got laid off, and I'm looking for work.
B: Yeah, me too! What are you thinking you would like
to do?
A: Right now, I'll take about anything that will pay the
mortgage.
B: Have you gone out on any interviews so far?
A: I went out on one interview, but I haven't heard back
from them.
B: Did you see the posting for the electrician apprentice
program?
A: You know, I saw that and it looks pretty good!
B: Let's go check it out again!
2
B: I am doing well. What's up with you?
A: Believe it or not, the company I worked for closed
down, so I'm out of a job.
B: The same with me. Have you given much thought to
what you want to do next?
A: I am not being all that particular right now because I
just need to keep a roof over my head.
B: How about interviews? Have you been on any of
those yet?
A: I wish that I could get the opportunity to be
interviewed.
B: How about the electrician program that they have
listed over there?
A: I read about that, and the position sounded great!
B: Let's go see how we can apply for those positions.
3
A: I haven't seen you in a while. How have you been?
B: Things are going fairly well. How about you?
A: I'm hanging in there, but I lost my job and need to
B: I am looking for a job myself. What were you thinking
of doing next?
A: I am just trying to find something that will pay the
bills until this bad economy passes by.
B: Have you gotten any interviews yet?
A: No, I haven't been out on one interview yet.
B: Have you thought about the electrician program over
there?
A: I think that I might be interested in that position.
B: We can help you find local information about
available jobs and workshops.
A: What are the different workshops that are available
at the EDD offices?
B: Resume Writing and Interviewing are our two most
popular workshops.
A: Can you think of some other places where I may look
for work?
B: Many times there are special services available to
certain groups like Women at Work or job help for non-
English speakers.
9. Attending a Workshop at EDD
1 B: Right, and what about our friendliness and attitude?
A: Is this the Resume Writing Workshop?
B: Yes, this is the Resume Writing Workshop. Welcome!
A: I really don't know that much about putting together
a resume.
B: It's easy. Don't worry about it.
A: What's the most important part?
B: Well, the most important thing we need to do is make
sure that our name and contact information are across
the top.
A: What comes next?
B: You can either list your job experience next or your
education--whichever is the most impressive should be
first.
A: Can I list my interests next?
B: Sure, that would be a good place for them.
2 A: I think that we should dress neatly and appropriately.
A: I was wondering if this is where the Resume Writing
Workshop is being held.
B: You are in the right place. Please come on in!
A: It's been a long time since I've had to look for work
and put a resume together.
B: It's going to come together just fine. Trust me!
A: Where do we begin?
B: We start at the top with our name and contact
information. Make sure the information is current.
A: Then what do we do?
B: Put your job experience first, if that is more
impressive than your education.
A: What about listing my interests and affiliations next?
B: Yes, that would make a good ending for your resume.
3 B: You have found your way to the interview class.
A: I was looking for the Resume Writing Workshop.
B: You came to the right spot. Come on in and join us!
A: I am not really sure that I remember how to even put
a resume together.
B: I am here to show you how to put together the
perfect resume. It will turn out great!
A: How do we get started?
B: We need to put our name and contact information
across the top.
A: Then what?
69
B: I think we should go over there and see if we can
apply for that program.
10. How to Go to an Interview
1
A: Is this the class to prepare for interviews?
B: This is the right place. Please join us.
A: I have an interview tomorrow, so I hope I can learn
everything quickly.
B: We are all going to have great interviews. What are
some things that we need to remember in an interview?
A: I think that we should make sure that our looks are
the best they can be.
A: Yes, and being friendly and having a good attitude
also help me relax.
B: Did you know that they pay as much attention to
what you ask as to what you say in an interview?
A: No, I didn't. What else should I keep in mind?
B: Just relax, listen carefully to the questions, and be
honest in your responses.
2
A: Is this the workshop to prepare for an interview?
B: This is the interview class. Welcome to our class.
A: I am really excited to be taking this workshop so that I
can get ready for my interview next week.
B: We are all learning things that will help us in our
interview. What do you think are some important
considerations going into your interview?
B: Yes. Second, as you can imagine, attitude and
friendliness go a long way.
A: Yes, and I always feel much better when I am friendly.
B: Believe it or not, the interviewers are as interested in
your questions as they are in your answers.
A: Any more hints as to what I should do in an
interview?
B: Always be honest with your answers. The
interviewers really do want to know if you will be a good
fit for them.
3
A: I was trying to find the class on preparing for
interviews.
Please come in!
A: I am so happy I found this class because I was really
nervous about my upcoming interview.
B: When we go into an interview, what do you think our
first consideration should be?
A: Our dress and grooming are probably the first thing
an interviewer judges us by.
B: Friendliness and a good attitude are also very
important.
A: Yes, and they help establish a friendly tone for the
B: You can list your education at the top, or choose your rest of the interview.
job experience to be there if it is more impressive. B: The interviewers always are interested in what you
A: Could I list my interests and special skills next? ask them about their company.
B: I think that that would work out quite well as an A: What else should I be thinking about?
ending for your resume. B: Be yourself and be honest. Simply answer the
11. Finding a Job questions put to you.
1
A: What should I do when I find a job?
B: There are a few considerations. Is this a part-time or
full-time job?
A: Does it make a difference?
B: Basically, you really don't need to do much of
anything. On the Continued Claim Form, you will note
that you now have a new job and also note what you are
earning.
A: If I get work for a few weeks, will I be terminated
from EDD?
B: You will not mess up your job benefits by taking work.
You can always come back and notify EDD that you are
once again in need of assistance.
2
A: Should I tell EDD that I have found a job?
B: Is this a temporary job or something more
permanent?
A: What difference does it make?
B: When you get your next Continued Claim Form, you
should just write down where you worked and note that
you no longer need unemployment.
A: If I take a short job and then get laid off, will I be
starting over trying to get unemployment?
B: Just because you work for a week doesn't mean that
you will be losing your benefits.
3
A: How do I know when to tell EDD that have I started a
new job?
B: Work is work, whether it's a part-time or temporary
job or a full-time gig.
A: So I guess I have to report that I've found a little bit of
work.
B: All you need to do is fill in the blanks correctly on the
Continued Claim Form, and the EDD Office will take care
of the rest.
A: What about if I find a job that I know will only last for
a couple of weeks? Can I take it?
B: It is to your advantage to work as much as you can.

70
 XIX. Travel
1. Visiting a Travel Agent
1 A: Could you help me make a plane reservation?
A: I need help planning my vacation.
B: Sure, where would you like to go?
A: I haven't decided where to go yet.
B: Do you enjoy warm or cold climates?
A: I am thinking that I might enjoy a tropical climate.
B: I have some brochures here that you might like to
look at.
A: These look great!
B: Do you know how much you want to spend on this
vacation?
A: I have about a thousand dollars to spend on this trip.
B: Well, take these brochures, and get back to me when
you want to make your reservations.
2 are your tickets.
A: Could you help me with vacation plans?
B: Do you know where you will be traveling?
A: I am open to suggestions at this point.
B: Are you wanting to travel to a tropical climate, or
would you like to go somewhere with a cooler climate?
A: I would like to travel to a cooler destination.
B: I can give you some brochures that could give you
some ideas.
A: I will look at them right now.
B: How much money is in your budget for this trip?
A: I think that I can spend about two hundred dollars a
day.
B: Take your time choosing a destination and, when
you've narrowed it down, I'll be happy to help you make
a reservation.
3 tickets right now. Have a great trip!
A: I was wondering if you would be able to help me with
vacation plans.
B: Have you chosen your destination?
A: I don't know where I want to go yet.
B: Do you enjoy warm weather, or are you looking
forward to a cooler vacation?
A: A nice temperate climate would be best for me.
B: Why don't you take a look at these brochures that
might help you make up your mind?
A: This place looks nice.
B: Have you thought about what you would like to spend
on this vacation?
A: I just got a bonus and can spend about three
thousand dollars total.
B: I'll be happy to help you make a reservation whenever
you decide upon a destination.
3. Booking a Flight Online
1 4. Buying a Plane Ticket
A: Have you ever booked a flight online?
B: I have booked airline tickets online many times. It has
worked out great for me!
A: How do you book airline tickets online?
71
2. Making a Plane Reservation
1
B: I would be happy to help you. Where do you plan on
going?
A: I am going to go to Hawaii.
B: For that destination, you may leave from Los Angeles
or Burbank Airport. Which would you prefer?
A: I think that I would rather leave from Los Angeles
Airport.
B: Would you prefer a morning or afternoon departure?
A: I need to leave in the morning.
B: Fine. On your return flight, do you have a preference
as to morning or afternoon?
A: I would prefer to return in the afternoon.
B: I have booked you on your flight at a great rate. Here
2
A: I need to make a plane reservation.
B: That is what I am here for. What is your destination?
A: I will be traveling to Aspen, Colorado.
B: Would you prefer to leave from Los Angeles or
Burbank Airport?
A: Burbank Airport would be best for me.
B: You can leave in the morning of afternoon from that
airport. Do you have a preference?
A: I can only take a flight that leaves in the afternoon.
B: I can book that for you right now. When you return,
would you prefer morning or afternoon?
A: I think that I would like a morning return flight better.
B: I was able to book your flight, and I will print your
3
A: I am planning a trip and need help making my airline
reservation.
B: Sure. Where are you traveling to on your trip?
A: I will be vacationing in Oregon.
B: You have an option of departing from Los Angeles or
Burbank Airport. What is your preference?
A: I live closer to Los Angeles Airport, so that would be
the best choice.
B: Does it matter to you if you leave in the morning or
afternoon?
A: I can leave at either time.
B: I'll put you on a morning flight. Is a morning or
afternoon return flight preferable for you?
A: Either morning or afternoon would work for me.
B: I'll give you an afternoon flight. Here are your tickets.
1
A: I would like to book a flight.
B: I can help you with that. Where are you traveling to?
A: I am traveling to Singapore.
72
 XX. At a Hotel
1. Calling to Get a Reservation
1 A: I have a reservation. My name is John Sandals.
A: I'd like to reserve a hotel room.
B: That should be no problem. May I have your full
name, please?
A: My name is John Sandals.
B: Hello, Mr. Sandals. My name is Michelle. What days
do you need that reservation, sir?
A: I'm planning to visit New York from Friday, April 14
until Monday, April 17.
B: Our room rates recently went up. Is that okay with
you, Mr. Sandals?
A: How much per night are we talking about?
B: Each night will be $308.
A: That price is perfectly acceptable.
B: Wonderful! Do you prefer a smoking or nonsmoking
room?
A: Nonsmoking, please.
B: Next question: Is a queen-size bed okay?
A: That sounds fine.
B: Okay, Mr. Sandals. Your reservation is in our
computer. All we need now is a phone number.
A: Certainly. My phone number is 626-555-1739.
B: Thank you, Mr. Sandals. We look forward to seeing
you in New York!
2 anything at all, please dial 0.
A: Hi there, I want to reserve a hotel room.
B: No problem at all. Could I have your full name,
please?
A: Sure, John Sandals.
B: Hi, Mr. Sandals. I'm Michelle, at your service. When
do you need the room?
A: My plans are to be there April 14th to the 17th.
B: We have new room rates, sir. Will that be acceptable
to you?
A: It depends on the price, of course. What is it?
B: It's $308 a night.
A: I have no problem with that.
B: Great! Would you prefer smoking or nonsmoking?
A: Definitely nonsmoking. I can't handle that smell.
B: Nonsmoking. Now, is a queen-size bed okay?
A: No problem.
B: Great, Mr. Sandals. Your reservation is confirmed.
Now all I need is your phone number.
A: Of course! It's area code 626-555-1739.
B: Thank you so much, Mr. Sandals. We look forward to
seeing you!
3 B: Regrettably, Mr. Sandals, we accept only MasterCard
A: I need to reserve a room.
B: Not a problem. May I have your name, please?
A: Of course. I'm John Sandals.
B: Hi, sir. My name is Michelle. Could you tell me when
you need the room?
A: Right now. I plan to be there in April from the 14th to A: Yes, that's just fine.
2. Checking into the Hotel
1
B: May I see your ID, please, Mr. Sandals?
A: Certainly. Here it is.
B: Thank you. Do you have a credit card, Mr. Sandals?
A: Yes, I do. Do you accept American Express?
B: Sorry, sir, just VISA or MasterCard.
A: Here's my VISA card.
B: Okay. You're in room 507. It's a single queen-size bed,
spacious, and nonsmoking. Is that suitable?
A: Yes, it sounds like everything I expected.
B: Here's your key, sir. If you need anything, just dial 0
on your room phone.
2
A: I have a reservation under the name of Sandals.
B: Could I see your ID, please, sir?
A: Of course! Let me take it out of my wallet.
B: Thank you, sir. Now, do you have a credit card, sir?
A: Yes, of course. Is American Express okay?
B: I'm sorry, sir. Only VISA or MasterCard.
A: In that case, here's my VISA.
B: Thank you. Your room number is 507, queen bed,
nonsmoking. Is that agreeable to you, sir?
A: Yes, I'm easy to please.
B: Very good. Here is your room key, sir. If you need
3
A: My name is Sandals, I have a reservation.
B: May I see your identification, please, sir?
A: Here you are.
B: Thanks. Do you have a credit card, sir?
A: Of course. Will American Express do?
B: I'm very sorry, sir. We accept only VISA or
MasterCard.
A: No problem. Here's my VISA.
B: Thanks. Room 507 is a spacious, nonsmoking room,
with a queen bed. Does that meet your expectations?
A: Yes, that sounds like what I want.
B: That's wonderful, sir. Now, here's your key. Should
you need anything, just dial 0.
4
A: I'm John Sandals, and I have a reservation.
B: Would you show me your ID, sir, please?
A: Here you go.
B: Thank you very much. Now, sir, do you have a credit
card?
A: Certainly! Would you like my American Express card?
or VISA.
A: I thought American Express was accepted
everywhere. Never mind. Here's my VISA.
B: Thanks. You're in room 507, a big, nonsmoking room,
with a queen bed. Is that okay, sir?
73
74
 XXI. Buying a House
1. First Meeting with a Realtor
1 A: I need to see if I qualify for a home loan.
A: I am interested in buying a house and need some
information.
B: Yes, of course. What area are you interested in?
A: I am interested in Pasadena or Arcadia.
B: What size house would you like?
A: We need a medium-sized house with at least 3
bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
B: Are you interested in being in a particular school
district?
A: Yes, we want to stay in the ABC School District.
B: Would you like a home near the lake or would you
prefer a view?
A: I would love to have a home with a view.
B: Fine, I will begin a search for the perfect home for
you. I will call you in a few days.
2 2
A: I would like to discuss purchasing a home with you.
B: I can help you. What location are you looking for?
A: I would like to live in Pasadena or Arcadia.
B: Have you thought about what your needs are in terms
of size?
A: We would like a smaller cozy cottage with 2
bedrooms and 1 bathroom.
B: Is living in a particular school district important to
you?
A: No, we don't really care because they are all pretty
good around here.
B: Are you interested in purchasing on the lake, or
would you like a home with a view?
A: We really want to live in a lakeside home with a dock
for our boat.
B: Now that I have an idea of what you want, I can begin
my search.
3 A: I want to go house shopping, and I want to know
A: I have been thinking of buying a house and would like what I can afford to buy.
to speak with you.
B: I have time to speak with you. Where would you like
to purchase your house?
A: I am most interested in Pasadena or Arcadia, but
would be open to other suggestions.
B: How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
A: We have several generations of family living in our
household and so need a very large home.
B: Do you need to be located in a particular school
district?
A: It doesn't matter, as we do not have any children.
B: Is a view important to you, or would you rather be
located on a lakeshore lot?
A: In a perfect world, we would like a home with a view
of the lake.
B: Thank you for all of the information. I will help you
find the perfect house for you. 3. Setting up an
75
2. Pre-Qualifying for a Loan
1
B: I can help you. How much money do you make per
year?
A: I make around one hundred thousand dollars per
year.
B: How long have you been on your current job?
A: I have only worked at this job for 6 months, but I have
a longer job history elsewhere.
B: Do you have any other outside income from rental
property or a trust?
A: No, I only receive my salary.
B: Do you know your credit score?
A: I think that it is around 600.
B: By crunching the numbers and putting in your
expenses, I estimate that you can afford a house of
around five hundred thousand dollars.
A: I am trying to see if I can afford to purchase a home
that I wish to buy.
B: We can figure that out right now. How much do you
earn annually?
A: My wife and I earned one hundred and fifty thousand
dollars last year.
B: How many years have you held your current position?
A: I have been at my current job for 10 years.
B: Is there any extra income that you receive other than
salary?
A: I collect one thousand dollars a month from a rental
property.
B: Have you ever figured out your credit score?
A: I try not to think about it!
B: Adding in your expenses, I calculate that you can
spend three hundred thousand on a house.
3
B: There is a formula that can help us figure that out.
What is your annual salary?
A: I earn sixty-five thousand dollars per year.
B: What is the length of time that you have worked at
the job you have now?
A: I have been at the job I now have for 2 years, and I
have been with the company for 6 years total.
B: Do you receive any other income?
A: I own a small rental unit with a partner, and I receive
five hundred dollars a month from that unit.
B: Do you know what your credit score is?
A: I don't know, but the last time I checked, it was very
good!
B: You are in good shape. Figuring in your other
expenses, you can easily afford a house costing seven
hundred thousand or maybe even a little more!
4. Viewing Houses with a Realtor
76
 XXII. Selling a House
1. First Appointment with Realtor
1 A: Thank you for coming to look at my house.
A: I am interested in selling my home and would like to
know what is involved.
B: You have come to the right place. When were you
interested in selling your home?
A: I just received a job transfer and need to relocate
right away.
B: How long have you been in your current home?
A: I have lived in my home for about 10 years.
B: As I am sure that you are aware, the market has fallen
in the past year. People are more likely to make money
if they have owned their home for a while.
A: Will I be able to recover the money I paid for my
home?
B: It is hard to say, but whatever house you buy will also
be costing you a lot less.
A: What is the next step in selling my home?
B: I would like to meet with you tomorrow to look at
your property, and then you and I can figure out a
contract.
2
A: I am looking for a realtor to help me sell my home.
B: I would be happy to help you with any questions that
you might have. When
were you thinking of selling your home?
A: I am interested in moving up to a bigger home, but
first I need to sell the one I now own.
B: Have you owned your home for a long time?
A: I just bought my home two years ago.
B: I think you probably know that the market is not all
that great. You are more likely to see a profit if you have
owned for 8 years or more.
A: Will I be losing money if I sell right now?
B: It is impossible to predict with certainty what will
happen, but you can purchase a replacement home at a
lower rate also.
A: What can I do next to get the ball rolling on this sale?
B: If it works for you, I would like to come over and see
your home. Then we can draw up a contract.
3
A: I am considering selling my home and would like
information on doing so.
B: It would be my pleasure to answer any questions that
you might have. Were you interested in selling in the
near future?
A: I am just checking out the possibility of selling, as I am
thinking of moving to Hawaii.
B: Is your home a recent purchase, or have you owned it
for a while?
A: The house has been in my family for years, but I just
became the owner 6 months ago when my mother
passed away.
B: Housing prices have fallen quite a bit. The longer you
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2. Marketing the House
1
B: I really wanted to take a look and help give you an
idea of what we need to do.
A: When will people come to look at my house?
B: Basically, there are two ways people can view your
home. They can come to an Open House or they can
come with a Realtor to view it during a private
appointment.
A: Will people from other real estate offices be involved,
or just from your office?
B: Your house is going to be listed as a Multiple Listing so
that it will have the maximum exposure to a variety of
people.
A: Will I know when people are going to come see my
house?
B: We will set the parameters in the contract, but
usually you will receive at least four hours of notification
that someone is coming.
A: What happens during an Open House day?
B: You will be expected to be away during an Open
House. I will take care of the details.
2
A: I appreciate you dropping by to look at my home.
B: It is useful for us to take a walk through your home
together, so that we make sure that we are on the same
page.
A: How do you show my home to potential buyers?
B: We will have an Open House or two on a weekend
and we also will show your home with private
appointments during the week.
A: Are you the only real estate office that will be
showing my house?
B: We are placing your house as a Multiple Listing. That
way, people who don't work for my particular office can
show your home to their clients.
A: How will I know when to expect prospective buyers?
B: That will be set in your contract. Usually, you will be
given four hours notice.
A: Can I stay home during an Open House day?
B: The seller is never at home during an Open House. I
personally will handle the showing of your home.
3
A: Thanks for stopping by to evaluate my home.
B: I want to make sure that you are very clear on what
the steps are to selling a home.
A: When can people come and see my home?
B: We will have several Open House weekends. Various
realtors will also show your house during the week.
A: Will I know all of the realtors who will be showing my
home, or will they be strangers?
B: Your house will be listed on what we call a Multiple
Listing. That way it will be shown by a variety of realtors.
A: Can people just drop in anytime they feel like it?
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 XXIII. In a New Neighborhood 2. Meeting New People
1. What to Do in the Neighborhood 1
1 A: Are you new in town?
A: I just recently moved into the neighborhood. B: Yes, I am new in town.
B: Is that right? How recently? A: It's very nice to meet you.
A: Just last week. B: It's nice to meet you too.
B: What kinds of things have you been doing out here? A: How long has it been since you moved here?
A: I haven't been doing much. B: It's been a month.
B: Why not? A: Do you like it here so far?
A: I don't know what to do. B: I actually do like it here.
B: There's all sorts of things to do. A: Isn't it beautiful?
A: Like what? B: It is absolutely beautiful here.
B: How about shopping, or seeing a movie, or even going A: Let me welcome you to the neighborhood.
to the beach? B: Thank you. I'm glad to be here.
A: That's more than I've been doing. 2
B: There are plenty of things to do out here. A: Are you new around here?
2 B: I just moved here.
A: I just moved in recently. A: Nice to meet you.
B: When was this? B: I'm happy to meet you too.
A: About a week ago. A: When did you move here?
B: What have you done so far? B: I've been here a month now.
A: Nothing really. A: How do you like it?
B: What? Why haven't you been doing anything? B: I love it here.
A: What is there to do? A: It's gorgeous here, don't you think?
B: There's a lot that you can do. B: It's wonderful.
A: Name one thing. A: I would like to welcome you to the neighborhood.
B: You can always go to the beach or catch a movie. B: That's very sweet of you.
A: I haven't done any of that. 3
B: There's no way for you to be bored here. A: I haven't seen you around, so you must be new here.
3 B: As a matter of fact, I am.
A: I recently moved into town. A: It's nice meeting you.
B: When did you move in? B: Nice to meet you too.
A: I've been here for only a week. A: When did you move out here?
B: What have you been doing this past week? B: I moved here about a month ago.
A: I haven't done much of anything. A: What do you think of it so far?
B: Why is that? B: It's great.
A: I don't know what there is to do. A: Don't you think that it's beautiful here?
B: You can do plenty of things. B: It really is gorgeous.
A: Tell me what there is to do. A: Welcome to the neighborhood.
B: You can go shopping, go to the beach, or even see a B: Thank you for making me feel welcome.
movie. 4. Where to Find a Church
A: I didn't know what to do. 1
B: There's a lot to do if you just look. A: Do you need help with something?
3. To Have a Better Life B: I'm trying to find something.
1 A: What are you looking for?
A: Are you new in town? B: I'm trying to find a church.
B: Yes, I did just move in. A: What kind of church is it?
A: How do you like it here so far? B: It's a Catholic church.
B: I think it's great. A: There's a Catholic Church right on Lake Avenue.
A: Where did you move from? B: Is that right?
B: I was living in El Salvador. A: Yes, and it's huge, so you can't miss it.
A: Why did you decide to move? B: Where exactly is it?
B: I figured I could have a better life here. A: It's right at Lake and Woodbury.
A: Is life hard there? B: Thanks for your help.
B: There aren't many opportunities for people. 2
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 XXIV. Crime 2. Discussing a Robbery
1. Discussing a News Report on a Crime 1
1 A: Did you hear about the robbery?
A: Have you seen the news today? B: No, I didn't hear about it.
B: Not yet. What happened? A: A man tried to rob our bank today.
A: Did you know there was a blackout last night? B: Are you serious?
B: Yes, I heard the lights were out all night. A: Yes, he tried to rob the bank at gunpoint.
A: Some people decided to loot last night. B: Did anyone get hurt?
B: I don't understand. A: Nobody got hurt.
A: They took advantage of the blackout. B: That's good to hear.
B: They really started looting? A: He did get away, though.
A: Yes, apparently four stores were broken into. B: That is horrible.
B: Did the looters get caught? A: The cops don't know who the guy is.
A: There was no evidence of who did it. B: I'm sure they'll catch him eventually.
B: Hopefully we won't have any more blackouts. 2
2 A: Have you heard about the robbery?
A: Did you see the news today? B: What robbery?
B: I haven't had a chance to see it. A: Some guy attempted to rob our bank earlier today.
A: You know about the blackout last night, right? B: That's insane!
B: The lights were out everywhere. A: He tried to rob the bank at gunpoint.
A: A bunch of people went looting last night. B: Is everyone okay?
B: They what? A: He didn't hurt anyone.
A: They took full advantage of the lights being out. B: I'm glad to hear that.
B: That's crazy. A: I heard he got away.
A: The news reported that four stores were broken into. B: That's not good.
B: Were the looters found? A: The police don't know who the suspect is.
A: The police don't know who did it. B: They'll figure it out.
B: I hope this doesn't happen again. 3
3 A: Did you know there was a robbery?
A: Have you watched today's news? B: I haven't heard anything about it.
B: No, I haven't. What's going on? A: Some dude tried to rob our bank.
A: Did you hear about last night's blackout? B: Really? That's crazy!
B: Yes. The lights were out all night. A: He tried to rob the bank with a gun.
A: Some people went looting because of the blackout. B: What happened?
B: What do you mean? A: Most important, no one got injured.
A: People decided to use the blackout to their B: That's great.
advantage. A: Sadly, he did get away.
B: People went out and looted? B: That's bad news.
A: I guess they broke into about four stores. A: The police have no idea who this man is.
B: Did the police find who did it? B: They'll catch him.
A: There's no evidence of who it was. 4. Reporting a Break-in
B: I hope we don't have any more blackouts. 1
3. Being Robbed A: 911. How may I help you?
1 B: I need to report a break-in.
A: Are you okay? A: When did this break-in occur?
B: No. B: Last night.
A: What's wrong? A: Where did the break-in happen?
B: I got robbed! B: It happened at my house.
A: By who? A: Was anything taken?
B: Some guy on the street just mugged me. B: I'm not sure yet.
A: Are you hurt? A: What makes you think there was a break-in?
B: No, he just stole all of my things. B: My front window was busted.
A: That's crazy. A: I'll send a squad car.
B: I need to go to the police station. B: Please hurry.
A: Do you want me to take you? 2
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 XXV. Voting 2. Election System
1. Election Day 1
1 A: Are you planning on voting?
A: Are you going to vote? B: Yes. What about you?
B: Yes, are you? A: Yes, but this will be my first time voting.
A: Yes, but what day are the elections? B: Really?
B: You don't know what day the elections are? A: Yes, and I have no idea how to do it.
A: That's why I'm asking you. B: Voting is simple.
B: They're this coming Tuesday. A: I don't know any of the laws they're trying to pass.
A: Really? B: That's okay. They describe everything on the ballot.
B: Yes, I'm serious. A: I didn't know that.
A: Good thing you told me. B: Don't worry. You'll be fine.
B: I can't believe you didn't know when the elections A: That's good to know.
were. B: Congratulations on your first voting day.
A: It slipped my mind. 2
B: You should watch the news more often. A: Are you going to vote?
2 B: I am. Are you?
A: Will you be voting? A: Yes, and for the first time.
B: I will. Will you be voting? B: Is that right?
A: When is the election? A: I don't know how to vote.
B: You don't know that? B: Voting isn't difficult.
A: I just don't know. A: I'm not sure what laws are being voted on.
B: It's this Tuesday. B: They tell you everything on the ballot.
A: You can't be serious. A: They do?
B: Why would I joke? B: You'll be okay.
A: Thanks for telling me. A: Thanks for telling me.
B: You should've known already. B: You should be excited about your first vote.
A: I forgot. 3
B: As long as you go vote, that's all that matters. A: Will you be voting this year?
3 B: Of course! Will you?
A: Are you going to vote? A: This is going to be my first time voting.
B: Of course! Are you? B: Are you serious?
A: I plan to, but what day is the election? A: I'm not sure what I'm doing.
B: You should know that. B: Voting is easy.
A: Can you just tell me? A: I don't know anything about the bills or laws they're
B: The election is this Tuesday. trying to pass.
A: Are you serious? B: The ballot gives you all that information.
B: I'm not kidding. A: Nobody told me that before.
A: It's a good thing I asked you. B: You have nothing to worry about.
B: That should've been something you knew already. A: I'm so glad you told me that.
A: I couldn't remember. B: Good luck on your first election.
B: Whatever. Just make sure you go vote. 4. Absentee Ballot
3. Polling Place 1
1 A: Are you going to vote on Tuesday?
A: Are you voting tomorrow? B: Of course. How about you?
B: Of course. What about you? A: I've already voted.
A: You know that I am. B: How's that?
B: Where is your polling place? A: I sent in an absentee ballot.
A: It's at the park up the street. B: Why?
B: Oh, is that right? A: I won't be able to vote on Tuesday.
A: Where's your polling place? B: Why not?
B: I have no idea. A: I have to work.
A: How come you don't know where it is? B: Why don't you go to work late?
B: Nothing came in the mail telling me my polling place. A: I have important business to take care of that

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A: You should check online. morning.
B: Oh, really? Thanks, I'm going to do that right now. B: I see.
2 2
A: Are you going to vote tomorrow? A: Will you be voting?
B: I sure am. How about you? B: Yes. Will you?
A: I am. A: I already have.
B: Do you know where your polling place is? B: How did you do that?
A: My polling place is up the street at the park. A: I mailed in an absentee ballot.
B: Oh, really? B: Why is that?
A: Where's yours at? A: I can't vote on Tuesday.
B: I'm not sure. B: What's the reason for that?
A: You should know that already. A: I have to go to work.
B: I didn't receive my polling place in the mail. B: You can just go to work after you vote.
A: You do know that you can look online, right? A: I need to take care of some business that morning.
B: I didn't know that. I'll go look right now. B: I get it now.
3 3
A: Are you planning on voting? A: Do you plan on voting this Tuesday?
B: Yes. Are you? B: Yes. What about you?
A: I will be voting tomorrow. A: I already voted.
B: What's your polling place? B: What do you mean you already voted?
A: My polling place is at the park up the street. A: I had to mail in an absentee ballot.
B: Oh, yeah? B: Why'd you have to do that?
A: Yes, where is yours? A: I'm not going to be able to vote this Tuesday.
B: I don't know. B: Why is that?
A: How is it you don't know? A: I have to work this Tuesday.
B: The location of my polling place never came in the B: You can always go to work late.
mail. A: That same morning I have some business to take care
A: You can always just check online. of.
B: Let me go do that. B: Oh, I understand.
5. Speaking Negatively about the Candidate 6. Speaking Positively about the Candidate
1 1
A: Are you going to vote? A: Are you going to vote?
B: Yes, but not for the person you're voting for. B: I am so excited to be voting.
A: Why not? A: Do you know who you're going to vote for?
B: I don't like him. B: I am so impressed with the candidate I'm going to
A: What's wrong with him? vote for.
B: He's not too smart. A: What's so great about him?
A: That's not true. B: I feel that he is very intelligent.
B: I don't agree with his policies, either. A: Oh, really?
A: I think he is a great candidate. B: Yes, and I agree with all his policies.
B: I don't think so. A: That's good to hear.
A: I think you should rethink your opinion about him. B: I think this man is going to be the next President.
B: I have the right to my own opinion. A: I hope so.
2 B: I'm going to make sure and get my vote in.
A: Will you be voting? 2
B: I won't be voting for the same person as you. A: Will you be voting?
A: Why? B: I can't wait to vote.
B: I really don't like your candidate. A: Who are you voting for?
A: What's your problem with him? B: The person I'm voting for is the best.
B: I don't find him very smart. A: What do you like about him?
A: He is smart. B: He is very intelligent.
B: I also don't agree with his policies. A: You think so?
A: He's a fabulous candidate. B: That's right. Plus, I agree with his policies.
B: That's just your opinion. A: I'm glad to hear that you are so excited.
A: You shouldn't think poorly of him. B: I'm voting for the next President.
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