All posts by weblio PH

Intermediate: Modern Technology

GUESS THE WORD

Fill in the missing letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. innovation
  2. conventional
  3. critical

ANSWER

1. word:
_
N
N
O
_
A
T
I
_
N
meaning: [noun] improvement and development of something
sentence: Computer _____________ is unending and will therefore continue to upgrade.
2. word:
C
O
_
V
_
N
T
I
O
N
_
L
meaning: [adjective] to follow/use typical and traditional standards
sentence: Doctors said that some _____________ medicines will not work on many diseases in a few years.
3. word:
_
R
_
T
I
C
_
L
meaning: [adjective] very serious and can be risky
sentence: Her laptop had ____________ errors due to outdated software.
READING ALOUD

Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.

READ

Hi, Emma. I just watched Revengers yesterday. Steel Man’s suit really caught my attention. Have you watched it?
Yes, I watched it with my younger brother. The movie was fantastic. Why the sudden interest on Steel Man’s suit, though?

Well, Steel Man’s suit is a product of nanotechnology. I’ve been hearing a lot about nanotechnology these days.
True. It’s revolutionizing modern medicine. In fact, nanobots are starting to replace some conventional medical methods. They are supposed to make critical medical procedures less dangerous.

Indeed. There are several studies that show positive results on nanobots attacking cancer cells without affecting the healthy ones. I hope this kind of innovation will be easily available to everyone in the next few years.
I hope so too. After all, everyone deserves the best medical treatment there is.

I’m glad we’re on the same wave length.
Likewise. Anyway, catch you later.
CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Please answer the questions in complete sentences.

ANSWER

1. What is the latest upgrade on Stelle Man’s suit?
Answer:
2. When did Ron watched the movie Revengers?
Answer:
3. How are nanobots helpful in the field of medicine?
Answer:
4. What does Emma mean by “we’re on the same wavelength”?
Answer:
DESCRIBING PICTURES

Study the pictures for 1 minute. Tell a story based on the pictures.

ANSWER

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions by stating your opinions.

ANSWER

1. Many people say that we have become lazy and too dependent on technology. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
2. How will the world be affected if all technology suddenly stopped functioning well?
Answer:
CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. Aside from cellphone and computer, what other technological gadget/s you can’t live without? Why?
Answer:
2. In your own opinion, what technological invention/s will soon disappear in the world?
Answer:
3. At what age should a child own a gadget (phone/tablet/laptop)?
Answer:
4. How do you think technology will change the world in the next one hundred years?
Answer:
5. What do you think are the three greatest inventions of all time?
Answer:

Intermediate: Socializing

GUESS THE WORD

Fill in the missing letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. fiancé
  2. elegant
  3. grand

ANSWER

1. word:
F
I
_
N
C
É
meaning: [noun] a man who is engaged to be married
sentence: She has no idea how excited her ___________ is on their wedding.
2. word:
E
L
_
G
_
N
T
meaning: [adjective] someone/something that is cultured, refined and classy
sentence: They bought ________________ furniture and displays in England for their new house.
3. word:
_
R
_
N
D
meaning: [adjective] impressive in style and appearance
sentence: She had a __________ birthday celebration.
READING ALOUD

Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.

READ

Hey there, Emma. Do you remember Alice, our Class President in Junior High? She’ll be coming home from London to “tie the knot” next week. She sent me a wedding invitation. Are you invited too?
Yes, but I’m not sure if I’m going. We’re not that close back in the day, so I’m not sure if I’ll go. Besides, I don’t know what gift to give.

Well, I heard it will be a grand beach wedding as Alice and her fiancé both worked abroad for years. Anything simple yet elegant will be a good wedding gift.
I guess you’re right. Still, I’m thinking whether I should go or not. I’m not really an outgoing person.

We can go together if you want. It would be nice to meet with our batchmates. Don’t worry, I’m sure you will enjoy attending Alice’s wedding.
Okay then, I shall go with you. I will also give them gift money as per the tradition.

Giving gift money is polite, but make sure to not hand it directly to the couple. You can hand it over to the receptionist.
I see, thanks. See you at the wedding.
CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Please answer the questions in complete sentences.

ANSWER

1. When is Alice going to marry?
Answer:
2. Why is Emma reluctant to attend Alice’s wedding?
Answer:
3. Are Alice and her soon-to-be husband well-off?
Answer:
4. What does Ron mean by “tie the knot”?
Answer:
DESCRIBING PICTURES

Study the pictures for 1 minute. Tell a story based on the pictures.

ANSWER

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions by stating your opinions.

ANSWER

1. Some people say that many are becoming more sociable online than in person. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
2. Can you imagine what will happen if all social media websites (Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, etc.) shut down permanently?
Answer:
CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. Which best fits your personality? A listener or a speaker or a mixture of both?
Answer:
2. Imagine yourself in a student council meeting and you are one of its officers. What will you do if one of your fellow officers keeps on overshadowing you in saying your ideas/opinions?
Answer:
3. In your country, how do you know if you can trust a person you just met?
Answer:
4. Describe a perfect night spent with friends.
Answer:
5. What are some ways to overcome nervousness and shyness in meeting new people?
Answer:

Intermediate: Environment

GUESS THE WORD

Fill in the missing letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. global warming
  2. misuse
  3. contribute

ANSWER

1. word:
G
L
_
B
_
L
W
_
R
M
_
N
G
meaning: [noun] increase of the Earth’s normal temperature
sentence: _____________ makes the ice melt in North and South Poles.
2. word:
M
_
S
_
S
E
meaning: [verb] to use something wrongly/incorrectly
sentence: We should not __________ our natural resources.
3. word:
C
O
_
T
R
I
B
U
_
E
meaning: [verb] to give or share something with others
sentence: They ___________ a lot of money to the environmental organization of their school.
READING ALOUD

Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.

READ

I just bought a new air conditioner. Summer season is not here yet, but it is already hot. Are you considering to buy as well?
Actually, I already have one at home, but I do not always use it. I prefer to use an electric fan at night and I take a bath two to three times a day to stay fresh.

I think I will feel more relaxed if I keep the air conditioner on especially at noon and at night. I guess I should also take a bath two to three times a day as you do.
You can use your air conditioner at night. I heard that it contributes to global warming. It releases dangerous gasses in the air especially if it’s overused or misused.

Oh, you’re right. My Science teacher told us that air conditioners use too much electricity. I cannot afford to pay that high for my electricity bills.
I’m glad you understand. You don’t just save money, you also help save the environment. However, if you feel “under the weather” due to the heat, you can use it until you’re relaxed.

Those are good points. As long as I can stand the heat, I will just use an electric fan. I want to help reduce the effects of global warming in my own way no matter how little it may be.
That’s really nice of you. Let’s hope that the others will also consider options like this. I’m sure they will understand.
CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Please answer the questions in complete sentences.

ANSWER

1. What did Ron buy?
Answer:
2. How many times does Emma take a bath in a day?
Answer:
3. Do you think Emma uses her air conditioner at night?
Answer:
4. What does Emma mean by “feel under the weather”?
Answer:
DESCRIBING PICTURES

Study the pictures for 1 minute. Tell a story based on the pictures.

ANSWER

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions by stating your opinions.

ANSWER

1. Some people say that we can live without the use of plastic. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
2. Can you imagine what will happen when fossil fuel (coal and natural gas) runs out?
Answer:
CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. Do you think newly discovered diseases are caused by environmental problems?
Answer:
2. How does your country implement cleanliness and orderliness?
Answer:
3. Do you think nuclear power is a safe source of electricity? Why or why not?
Answer:
4. What roles can the government and businesses play in solving environmental problems?
Answer:
5. What is the most stable source of energy? Is it solar energy, thermal, wind, etc.?
Answer:

Intermediate: Fads, Trends & Fashion

GUESS THE WORD

Fill in the missing letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. peculiar
  2. consequence
  3. hilarious

ANSWER

1. word:
P
_
C
_
L
I
A
R
meaning: [adjective] different to what is ordinary
sentence: She is __________ because she always wears the same outfit every day.
2. word:
C
_
N
S
E
Q
U
E
_
C
E
meaning: [noun] result of a specific action/situation
sentence: As a _____________ of going home late last night, he was forced to surrender his gadgets.
3. word:
H
I
_
A
R
I
_
U
S
meaning: [adjective] very funny
sentence: The commentator made his audience laugh because of his ________________ jokes.

READING ALOUD

Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.

READ

Whoa! What’s with the peculiar tan skin and blonde hair? Trying a new look?
This is called, Ganguro makeup look, brother. It’s a makeup trend from the ‘90s. I lost a bet with my friends, so as a consequence I have to wear Ganguro for a day.

You look pretty weird but it “fits you like a glove”. Here let me take a picture. Mom and dad will definitely love it.
Hey, you’re funnier. I saw you the other day. You were stuffing lots of marshmallows inside your mouth in front of your camera. What was that, by the way?

That is called Chubby Bunny Challenge and it’s the latest fad. You have to put as many marshmallows as you can inside your mouth and then you will say the word “chubby bunny” loud and clear.
That sounds interesting, but why would you do that? Wouldn’t you get choked?

My friends challenged me to do the Chubby Bunny Challenge—something funny that we could share on social media. It’s hilarious.
I see. I’ll be sure to check out your Chubby Bunny Challenge video. See you later, Ron!

CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Please answer the questions in complete sentences.

ANSWER

1. How is Ganguro described?
Answer:
2. How is the Chubby Bunny Challenge done?
Answer:
3. Do you think Ron enjoyed doing the Chubby Bunny Challenge?
Answer:
4. What does Ron mean by “it fits you like a glove”?
Answer:

DESCRIBING PICTURES

Study the pictures for 1 minute. Tell a story based on the pictures.

ANSWER

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions by stating your opinions.

ANSWER

1. Some people say that having tattoos look unpleasant on the body. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
2. Would you rather be called old-fashioned than follow a weird trend? Cite an example of a weird trend.
Answer:
CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. Name a trend that you followed.
Answer:
2. If you were to create a trend/fad, what would it be and why?
Answer:
3. Do you think that the clothes we wear reflect our personality?
Answer:
4. What were the worst trends and fads you’ve seen so far?
Answer:
5. Were there any trends in the past that you hope to come back?
Answer:

Intermediate: Spending and Consumerism

GUESS THE WORD

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. allowance
  2. conscious
  3. thrifty

ANSWER

1. word:
A
L
O
L
A
W
N
C
E
meaning: [noun] amount of money to either save or use for a limited time
sentence: He promised to save twenty-percent of his _____________ so that he can buy a new car.
2. word:
C
N
O
C
S
I
U
O
S
meaning: [adjective] aware of one’s or someone’s actions/behaviors
sentence: Her mother is _______________ in spending their family’s monthly budget.
3. word:
T
H
I
R
T
F
Y
meaning: [adjective] using money carefully and not wastefully
sentence: I need to be ___________ so I can save enough money for a new car.

DIALOGUE

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Alice and you will be Sam. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

READ

I used up all my weekly allowance yesterday. May I borrow 100 hundred dollars, sister?
____________. Where did you spend all your money?

There was a big sale at the mall. I couldn’t help myself so I shopped with my friends. I didn’t realize that I had no money left until I got home last night.
I won’t blame you, but you should’ve been a conscious shopper. Money doesn’t come around so easy these days.

I know, I’m sorry. Do you have any advice so I can become thrifty like you?
________________________________________.

I’m not sure if I can follow all of your advice, but I will try my best. Thanks, sister.
No problem. Anyway, here’s 100 dollars.

READING ALOUD

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

READ

In Japan, there is a money-saving method known as “Kakeibo” which means a “household financial ledger”. Kakeibo was created and first published in a women’s magazine by a female journalist, Motoko Hani in 1995. It is an annual journal composed of spreadsheets and inspirational messages to motivate its user while managing their finances. This is to keep track of how much the user is spending and earning, although its main goal is to save more money. With the positive influence of Kakeibo, consumers will be more responsible with their money. In addition, Moni Ninja, a financial blogger suggested that parents should teach their kids on how to save money by placing cash gifts they receive during holidays and special occasions in the bank.

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions about the article.

ANSWER

1. What is Kakeibo for?
Answer:
2. How do parents teach their children in saving money?
Answer:
3. Financial education should be taught to young children at school. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if majority of people are over-spending money?
Answer:

READ BETWEEN THE LINES

In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.

ANSWER

1. “Beware of little expenses. A small leak will sink a great ship.” – Benjamin Franklin
Answer:
2. “When you have money, think of the time when you had none” – a Japanese proverb
Answer:

CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. What is the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought without much thought?
Answer:
2. Imagine you earned a lot of money, where would you use it for and why?
Answer:
3. What can you advice to people who are over-spending money?
Answer:
4. If you were to remove some expenses in your budget, what would it be?
Answer:
5. Name other ways in saving money without depriving yourself.
Answer:

Intermediate: Traffic and Transportation

GUESS THE WORD

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. hazards
  2. regulation
  3. disciplined

ANSWER

1. word:
A
H
Z
A
R
D
S
meaning: [noun ] something dangerous/unsafe
sentence: Be aware of the traffic ___________ when driving on a slippery road.
2. word:
R
E
G
A
U
L
T
I
O
N
meaning: [noun] policies
sentence: The people in the Metrovalle City have no regard to traffic __________.
3. word:
E
P
D
E
S
R
T
I
A
N
meaning: [noun] a person crossing the street
sentence: He almost hit the _________.

DIALOGUE

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Alice and you will be Sam. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

READ

Sister, I failed my driving and road tests earlier. I will retake my exams next week. What should I do?
Let’s see. How familiar are you in understanding street signs and traffic hazards?

Not quite. Actually, those are the main reasons why I didn’t pass. I don’t know much about them.
I see. Well, the golden rule is to watch out for cyclists and crossing pedestrians. You must also pay attention to the speed limit. Some roads are busier than others.

I’ll keep that in mind. Can you tell me more about other traffic regulations?
_________________________________________.

That’s a lot, but I’ll make sure to remember all of that. Do you think I’ll pass my driving and road tests next week?
__________. Don’t be so nervous. Just remember that it is mandatory to obey traffic rules whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver.

READING ALOUD

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

READ

According to This Is Insider, an online news media company, Tokyo is the most populated city on Earth and has the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Every day, there are at least 3,000 people crossing the famed Shibuya station. Despite being overly crowded, everyone is polite and disciplined in crossing the streets even when the traffic lights change every two minutes. It is also considered the home to one of Tokyo’s busiest train stations carrying more than 2.4 million passengers a day. Shibuya Station began operating in 1885. Shibuya has also made its way to Hollywood films like The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Resident Evil: Afterlife.

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions about the article.

ANSWER

1. When did Shibuya Station first began its operations?
Answer:
2. Why do you think Shibuya is the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world?
Answer:
3. Road accidents happen more often in bigger pedestrian crossings than smaller ones. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if the train operations stopped for a day?
Answer:

READ BETWEEN THE LINES

In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.

ANSWER

1. “The driver on the highway is safe not when he reads the signs, but when he obeys them..” – Aiden Wilson Tozer
Answer:
2. “Take it easy on driving. The life you save may be mine.” – James Dean
Answer:

CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. What will you do if you suddenly saw a road accident and you are the only person in the area?

Answer:
2. Do you prefer driving your own car or commuting by public transportation?
Answer:
3. Aside from paying fines, what other measures can you think of to punish reckless drivers?
Answer:
4. What can you suggest to other countries who have heavy traffic loads?
Answer:
5. Some people say that the elderly, pregnant women and persons with disability shouldn’t go out without a company. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:

Intermediate: Saving, Investing, and Personal Finance

GUESS THE WORD

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. purchase
  2. volatile
  3. economy

ANSWER

1. word:
P
R
U
C
A
H
S
E
meaning: [noun] something that you buy
sentence: I talked about planning a future _________ for a house.
2. word:
L
O
V
A
T
I
L
E
meaning: [adjective] likely to change suddenly and unexpectedly, especially by getting worse
sentence: Rice and meat prices are very ___________ in our country nowadays.
3. word:
C
O
E
N
O
M
Y
meaning: [noun] the system by which a country produces and uses goods and money
sentence: The ___________ of the country is growing rapidly.

DIALOGUE

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

READ

Hey, Emma. I heard you’re investing in cryptocurrency. Is that true?
I did. My first purchase was in 2012. I’ve recently sold them out.

Yes. Really? The prices of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are on an all-time high these past few months.
That’s true. That’s why I sold them all out when their prices are still high. As you know, prices of cryptocurrencies are very volatile. We’ll never know when the price will plunge down.

I’ve never tried investing on cryptocurrencies despite their popularity. Anyway, have you tried investing in the stock market?
___________________. Our economy is the doing well.

I hope this continues. We have had enough trouble since the economic decline of early 2000’s. Anyway, which company do you think will perform best this year?
____________. It’s market value doubled in the last five years.

READING ALOUD

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

READ

Financial Action Task, an international financial organization, will team up with Japan to urge a unified cryptocurrency regulation in the coming months. This is to make sure that syndicate groups will not be able to acquire money from their victims. Cryptocurrency is a digital form of money to secure transactions online. The current leading cryptocurrency in Japan is Bitcoin. After the largest cryptocurrency scam incidents of Mt. Gox and Coincheck, Japan’s financial regulator has increased their security to fight against scams. Analysts believe that by applying unified cryptocurrency regulations and by encouraging countries to work together, cases of money scams will drop.

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions about the article.

ANSWER

1. What are the two names of cryptocurrencies that were hacked?
Answer:
2. In your own words, describe cryptocurrency.
Answer:
3. Cryptocurrency is more prone to theft/scam than actual money. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if cryptocurrency fully replace all fiat (physical/actual) money in the world?
Answer:

READ BETWEEN THE LINES

Please explain the meaning to the following quotes.

ANSWER

1. “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants. ” –Epictetus
Answer:
2. “Every time you borrow money, you’re robbing your future self.” -Nathan W. Morris
Answer:

CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. What are the common payment methods in your country?
Answer:
2. Do you think it’s wise to own two or more credit cards?
Answer:
3. What’s the first thing you will do/buy if you were given one million US dollars?
Answer:
4. People would be in a better financial situation if they would buy things in full payment and in cash. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
5. What do you think are the best ways to prepare for one’s retirement?
Answer:

Intermediate: Work and Employment

GUESS THE WORD

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. familiarize
  2. excessive
  3. prompt

ANSWER

1. word:
F
A
M
L
I
I
A
R
Z
I
E
meaning: [verb] to teach someone more about something new or try to understand more about it by yourself
sentence: After two weeks, he was able to _______ himself in his new job.
2. word:
E
C
X
S
S
I
E
V
E
meaning: [adjective] something that is more than necessary
sentence: His boss gave him a verbal warning for his _______ tardiness.
3. word:
R
O
P
M
T
P
meaning: [adjective] acting quickly
sentence: The employer hired her for being honest and _______ on her job interview.
DIALOGUE

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Sam and you will be Alice. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

READ

Your job interview is tomorrow. Have you prepared for it?
Of course. I familiarized myself with possible interview questions. Do you have any advice, brother?

With pleasure. First of all, you should have background information about the company. Did you do a research?
____________. I guess I have to do more research about them. How was your first interview, brother?

I was nervous at first. I really liked the job and I couldn’t afford to mess up. Luckily, the hiring manager was patient with me, so it went smoothly. Now, I’m almost three years in the company. By the way, what kind of work are you applying for?
_________________________________.

Cool. Just remember, be honest when answering their questions and just be yourself.
I will. Thank you, brother. Wish me luck!
READING ALOUD

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

READ

Working overtime is well established in Japan. However, due to higher risks of health problems caused by excessive working hours, companies are starting to prompt and organize ways to improve work-life balance. Taisei Co. is developing a drone known as “T-FREND” to fly around after working hours while playing the song, “Auld Lang Syne” as a reminder to go home. It can also detect anyone who remains at work. According to T-FREND’s inventor, Chikara Sato, “This drone will identify who remains in the office after work and by accessing recorded data, human resources or administration department, it will be able to deal with those who abuse overtime.” This invention is promising as it shows great awareness of Japan’s workaholic culture.

QUESTIONS

Please answer the questions about the article.

ANSWER

1. What are the risks of excessive working hours?
Answer:
2. Why is T-FREND a promising invention?
Answer:
3. T-FREND is beneficial for both the company and its employees. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. If you were given a chance to improve the work-life balance in Japan, what would you propose and why?
Answer:
READ BETWEEN THE LINES

Please explain the meaning of the following quotes.

ANSWER

1. “If you want to be successful in this world, you have to follow your passion, not a paycheck. – Jen Welter 
Answer:
2. “Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.” – Samuel Johnson
Answer:

CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. What are the most in-demand jobs in your country right now?
Answer:
2. If you are an employer, what would be your basis for hiring job applicants?
Answer:
3. What do you consider a successful career and why?
Answer:
4. If you had to choose between a satisfying job and a well-paid one, which one would you choose?
Answer:
5. In your opinion, what are the three best qualities of a top-performing employee?
Answer:

Intermediate: House and Residence

GUESS THE WORD

Fill in the missing letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. mortgage
  2. amortization
  3. residential

ANSWER

1. word:
M
_
R
T
G
A
_
E
meaning: [noun] money that is borrowed from a bank to buy a property
sentence: She was worried about being able to pay her _______ on time after losing her job.

2. word:
A
M
_
R
T
I
Z
_
T
I
_
N
meaning: [noun] a monthly payment for buying a property through installment
sentence: The __________ of her house is due tomorrow.

3. word:
R
E
S
I
_
E
N
_
I
_
L
meaning: [adjective] an area of land used for houses
sentence: The wide grassland on the countryside was bought for _____________ purposes.

READING ALOUD

Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.

READ

I have decided to invest my hard-earned money on something. I’m planning to buy a house next year. Do you think it will be worth it?
I think so, Ron. You just have to be ready when you decide to buy a house. It is not as easy as with renting an apartment, but you can do it.

I appreciate your encouragement, Emma. I just feel like renting an apartment is a waste of money in the long run. That’s why I’m planning to buy a house as soon as possible.
I see. That’s also my reason why I got my dream house three years ago. At first, it was really difficult to save up a down payment for my mortgage, but I just decided to “go the extra mile” and got a side job. Now, paying my monthly amortization feels like paying a rent.

Wow. That’s very inspirational. I hope I can also save up for my dream house. Do you know a place near the office?
Twenty-five kilometers west from here, the greater part of the valley area is being converted to a residential land. It’s a short drive away and it’s near the Hollaway City.

Oh, I think I have been there before. I will check that later. Thanks for your help, Emma. Buying a house is really difficult but it became a bit easier because of your help.
No problem, Ron. If you need company when you visit the location, I’ll come with you if I’m available. Just call me if you need help.

CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Please answer the questions in complete sentences.

ANSWER

1. What is Ron planning to do next year?
Answer:
2. Why did Emma bought a house three years ago?
Answer:
3. Is Hollaway City near the beach?
Answer:
4. What does Emma mean by “go the extra mile”?
Answer:

DESCRIBING PICTURES

Study the pictures for 1 minute. Tell a story based on the pictures.

ANSWER

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions by stating your opinions.

ANSWER

1. Some people say that it’s better to earn less if your workplace is near your home than to earn more but your workplace is far. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
2. Would you live in a house that’s said to be haunted by ghosts?
Answer:

CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. Please describe your ideal house and neighborhood.
Answer:
2. Would you buy a house in the city or in the countryside?
Answer:
3. Which is more important when buying a house: the price or the location?
Answer:
4. Would you consider living in a foreign country?
Answer:
5. What are things in your home that you couldn’t live without?
Answer:

Intermediate: Movies and Entertainment

GUESS THE WORD

Fill in the missing letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. adaptation
  2. genre
  3. plot

ANSWER

1. word:
A
_
A
P
T
_
_
I
O
N
meaning: [noun] a movie, TV drama, or stage play that has been made from a written work like novels, comics, etc.
sentence: I don’t like the latest movie _______ of the novel Gone with the Wind.
2. word:
G
E
_
R
E
meaning: [noun] a particular type/kind of literature, art, etc.
sentence: Which movie _______ do you like?
3. word:
P
_
O
T
meaning: [noun] story
sentence: I hope the movie has a nice _______.

READING ALOUD

Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.

READ

I can’t wait to go home. It has been a really tough day. What are you up to this weekend, Emma?
I’m planning to watch a movie with my family. Nemesis War is showing this weekend.

Cool! I would like to watch movies too, but I have to stay at home to help my mother. I heard there are lots of new movies these days. Do you always watch movies?
I don’t frequently go to the theaters, but I watch movies once or twice a month. It also depends on what movies are showing. I like action movies and historical drama.

I’m into sci-fi and mystery movies. I like unpredictable plots. It’s fun to guess what will happen to the characters.
I totally agree with that. Anyway, Nemesis War has great reviews on most entertainment websites. I hope it will “live up to the hype”!

I’m sure it will. Enjoy the movie, Emma. I’ll try to watch it next week with my family.
Thanks, Ron. I hope we could watch a movie together next time. It will be my treat.

CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Please answer the questions in complete sentences.

ANSWER

1. What is Emma planning to do on the weekend?
Answer:
2. Why can’t Ron watch a movie on the weekend?
Answer:
3. Does Ron like historical drama?
Answer:
4. What does Emma mean by “live up to the hype”?
Answer:

DESCRIBING PICTURES

Study the pictures for 1 minute. Tell a story based on the pictures.

ANSWER

EXPRESSING OPINIONS

Please answer the questions by stating your opinions.

ANSWER

1. Some people say that it’s alright for historical movies to be historically inaccurate to look more creative. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
2. If you were a film director, what kind of movie would you like to make?
Answer:

CONVERSATION PRACTICE

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

ANSWER

1. What local and Hollywood movies are popular in your country?
Answer:
2. Which movie genre do you like and dislike most? Why?
Answer:
3. What are the best and worst movies you have ever seen?
Answer:
4. Do you often watch movies at cinemas, on services like Netflix and Hulu, or on DVDs?
Answer:
5. Have you watched movies or TV show adaptations of popular books and comics? What do you think about them?
Answer: