All posts by weblio PH

Intermediate: Travelling

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. exotic
  2. tranquil
  3. overcrowded
ANSWER
1. word:
E
O
X
I
T
C
meaning: [adjective] rare or uncommon
sentence: They were amazed when they saw ________ animals at the zoo.
2. word:
T
A
R
N
U
I
Q
L
meaning: [adjective] peaceful and quiet
sentence: The temple they visited was beautiful and ________.
3. word:
O
E
V
R
C
R
W
O
D
E
D
meaning: [adjective] has a lot of people or things in one or more place/s
sentence: Some tourist places in the Philippines is becoming ________ .
DIALOGUE
Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.
READ
We have a long weekend next week and I’m planning to have a mini-vacation. Do you have any suggestions on where I can travel and unwind?
_______________________. What is your ideal travel destination?
Well, I want to go to places that are quite exotic and tranquil. What is your ideal travel destination?
_______________________.

I didn’t know you’re into travelling too. Maybe one day we can be travel buddies and explore together. How often do you travel by the way? And do you travel alone?
I actually prefer travelling alone since I only have limited time
for myself. Although, I still travel with my family or friends depending
on the destination. I usually travel once or twice a month.


That’s amazing. I’m also thinking of creating video blogs whenever I travel, so I have memories of my travel experiences.
Indeed. Now I regret not making video blogs until now.

READING ALOUD
Read and take note of the important points in the article.
READ
According to an article of The Telegraph, a British Newspaper, United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) declared Japan as the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination since 2010 followed by India, Vietnam, and Thailand. Because of the country’s wonderful and exotic places and a tranquil atmosphere, Japan has attracted many visitors particularly Chinese and Australians. Some of Japan’s most visited places are Shibuya, Dotonbori, and Tokyo Disneyland. However, according to the newspaper Japan Times, Japan is starting to face a problem known as “Kankō Kōgai,” which means “tourism pollution” due to overcrowded places especially in large cities and in major tourist destinations. Japanese people who are known to be polite and very welcoming are getting stressed by the uncontrolled rise of tourists every day. Citizens are requesting for a better transportation access and more accommodations for tourists to prevent the said problem.
EXPRESSING OPINIONS
Please answer the questions about the article.
ANSWER
1. Who announced Japan as the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination?
Answer:
2. In your own words, what is tourism pollution?
Answer:
3. Some people say that tourism destroys a country’s natural and cultural heritage. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think Japan’s government should do to reduce “Kankō Kōgai” without negatively affecting the country’s tourism?
Answer:
READ BETWEEN THE LINES
In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.
ANSWER
1. “Even if travelling is not for everyone, don’t let it break you. Life is too short so go and see the world.” – Unknown
Answer:
2. “It’s not about how much you spend in travelling. It’s about the memories and experiences you earn while you’re at it.” – Unknown
Answer:
CONVERSATION PRACTICE
Let’s talk. Please answer my questions. You may ask questions, too.
ANSWER
1. If you were to live in another country, where would it be and why?
Answer:
2. Where do you think is the most iconic/remarkable place on earth?
Answer:
3. Have you ever gotten lost while travelling?
Answer:
4. What is the one place you like to visit again and again in your country and abroad?
Answer:
5. Describe your ideal vacation trip with family/friends.
Answer:

Beginner Conversation: Music

WARM UP
Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. After reading it once, we’ll switch roles.
READ
Hey there, Emma. I saw your video online yesterday. I did not know you can play the piano. The song you played on the video sounds beautiful.
Thank you, Ron. I have been practicing my piano skills for five months and I decided to take a video of myself to see if I did it well.
You learned how to play the piano in just five months? That is so cool. I’m really proud of you.
Actually, I have always wanted to play the piano. When my parents bought a piano five months ago, I started practicing.
I am so happy for you, Emma. How about we play a song together someday? I know how to play the guitar.
That’s a great idea! Well, we can play a song together tomorrow since it’s weekends. You can come to my house at 10 in the morning.
CONVERSATION
Let’s talk. Please answer my questions. You may ask me questions, too.
ANSWER
1. What are your favorite songs? Why do you like them?
Answer:
2. Who is your favorite singer?
Answer:
3. What kind of music do you like the most? (Example: Pop, punk, rock, country, classical, etc.)
Answer:
4. Do you play any musical instrument? If yes, what do you play? If no, would you like to learn?
Answer:
5. Do you like to sing in Karaoke bars? If yes, name one song you always sing. If no, why?
Answer:
6. Do you like to listen to music while you are studying or working?
Answer:
7. Name a song that best describes you.
Answer:
8. When was the last time you attended a concert?
Answer:
9. Are there any songs that you don’t like?
Answer:
10. Name three foreign singers that are famous in your country.
Answer:

Beginner Conversation: Food and Dining

WARM UP
Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Sam and you will be Alice. After reading it once, we’ll switch roles.
READ
I cannot find anything to eat here at home. I am hungry. How about you, Alice?
I am hungry, too. Our parents won’t be home soon, so I guess we just have to wait for them.
Well, I was thinking of ordering food online. I want to order pizza and spaghetti. What do you say?
I have a better idea. Let’s bake pizza and cook spaghetti. Is that okay with you?
Wow! Of course, it is okay with me as long as I bake the pizza while you cook spaghetti.
Okay, Sam. Just make sure your pizza will taste good.
CONVERSATION
Let’s talk. Please answer my questions. You may ask me questions, too.
ANSWER
1. What do you think are the three best foods in your country?
Answer:
2. Do you like to eat at restaurants or do you prefer to eat at home?
Answer:
3. Have you ever worked in a restaurant? If not yet, would you like to if given the chance?
Answer:
4. Do you know how to cook? If yes, what do you usually cook? If no, would you like to learn how to cook?
Answer:
5. What do you think is the worst food you have ever eaten?
Answer:
6. Do you like spicy foods?
Answer:
7. Do you like meat better than vegetables?
Answer:
8. Name three foods from other countries that you like.
Answer:
9. How often do you eat healthy foods?
Answer:
10. Are there any foods that you don’t like to eat?
Answer:

Beginner Conversation: Sports

WARM UP
Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Sam and you will be Alice. After reading it once, we’ll switch roles.
READ
Are you ready for our first day in summer swimming class?
Actually, I don’t think I can do it. You know I cannot swim.
Don’t worry, we will swim together. Our swimming teacher will teach us how to swim. It is going to be fun.
You’re right. By the way, can we play volleyball with our friends after the swimming class?
Of course. Now, let’s go. We don’t want to be late on our first day in swimming class.
Alright. Let’s go!
CONVERSATION
Let’s talk. Please answer my questions. You may ask me questions, too.
ANSWER
1. What are your favorite sports?
Answer:
2. Name one to three sports that you want to learn.
Answer:
3. Name a sport that you wish you can play but can’t.
Answer:
4. In your opinion, what is the most famous sport in the world?
Answer:
5. Which sport is famous in other countries but not in your country?
Answer:
6. Is there a sport that you don’t like?
Answer:
7. Who is your favorite athlete (sports player)?
Answer:
8. What do you think is the most dangerous sport?
Answer:
9. If you were given the chance to join in Olympics 2020, what sport would you like to play? Why?
Answer:
10. Which do you like the most? Teams sports or single-person sports?
Answer:

Intermediate: News Media

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. misleading
  2. biased
  3. violent
ANSWER
1. word:
M
S
I
E
L
A
I
D
N
G
meaning: [adjective] giving the wrong idea or impression
sentence: The news headline is ____________.
2. word:
B
A
I
E
S
D
meaning: [adjective] unfair support for or against something
sentence: The news about elections was ________ in favor of the leading candidate.
3. word:
V
O
I
E
L
N
T
meaning: [adjective] harmful and destructive
sentence: The news anchor reported the ___________ storm that attacked the major city last night.
DIALOGUE
Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.
READ
I can’t stand watching today’s news, Emma. They’re mostly depressing. I feel like bad news always travels faster than good news. Are there any recent good news?
_____________________________. Nonetheless, you should still watch the news to keep yourself updated on what’s happening around you.
Don’t worry, I still do. Although, I prefer to watch news feature and documentary because they’re not that violent. What’s the best news you’ve heard of so far?
_________________________________________

That’s nice. I hope news outlets will become less biased and stick more to the truth. By the way, do you know how to recognize if the news is biased or not?
I watch, read, and listen to news critically. Sometimes, even by just
reading and understanding the headlines, you will know if the news is
biased or not. I always watch out for misleading sentences, one-sided
reports, and opinionated terms.


You’re absolutely right. With the popularity of social media, it’s easy to spread fake news, so we need to be very critical with what we believe and what we share with others.
Indeed. It’s our duty as citizens to be responsible and observant.

READING ALOUD
Read and take note of the important points in the article.
READ
The history of news can be dated back to the Ancient Rome and Han Dynasty in China. In Ancient Rome, “Acta Diurna”, or government announcements were engraved either in metal or stone before being posted in public places. Meanwhile, in China, news sheets were handwritten on silk. In 1456, a movable printing system was invented by a German blacksmith, Johannes Gutenberg. Since then, important information became easily shared with everyone. A hundred years later, the term “newspaper” was first used in Venice, Italy when the government published their first handwritten newsletters known as “Written Notice”. To this day, news plays an important role in educating and updating the public that marked and shapes the modern world.
EXPRESSING OPINIONS
Please answer the questions about the article.
ANSWER
1. Who invented the first movable printing system?
Answer:
2. Based on the article, how does news shape the modern world?
Answer:
3. Some people say that social media could replace news media. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if anyone (including those without professional journalism/reporting background) would write and publish news?
Answer:
READ BETWEEN THE LINES
In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.
ANSWER
1. “News is the bridge between the people, the government, and the world.”
– Unknown
Answer:
2. “A newspaper is not just for reporting the news as it is, but to make people mad enough to do something about it..”
– Mark Twain
Answer:
CONVERSATION PRACTICE
Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.
ANSWER
1. Do you think there are more bad news than good news nowadays?
Answer:
2. Would you consider becoming a news reporter if given the chance?
Answer:
3. What kind of news interests you the most?
Answer:
4. Should news be more entertaining than informative?
Answer:
5. If you were to be reported in the news, what would be the headline?
Answer:

Beginner Conversation: Movies and Television

WARM UP
Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Sam and you will be Alice. After reading it once, we’ll switch roles.
READ
Alice, your friend, Mika, is outside. She said you two are going out to watch a movie. What movie is that?
We are going to watch Spider-Girl. It is showing today and we have been waiting for it since last year.
I heard about that movie too. Many people are excited to watch Spider-Girl.
It is exciting to watch, especially that they got the perfect actress to play as Spider-Girl. You know you can come with us to watch it.

I will watch Spider-Girl with my friends tomorrow. Right now, I will just watch my favorite television show, The Lost Island.
Okay then. Enjoy watching. See you later, brother!

CONVERSATION
Let’s talk. Please answer my questions. You may ask me questions, too.
ANSWER
1. What is the latest movie you watched so far? Did you like it?
Answer:
2. What is your most favorite English and Japanese movie?
Answer:
3. Who is your favorite English movie actor and actress?
Answer:
4. Name one movie that you would like to happen in real life.
Answer:
5. What are your favorite TV shows? Why do you like it?
Answer:
6. What kinds of movies interest you the most? (Example: Romance, comedy, science fiction, horror, mystery, etc.?)
Answer:
7. Is there a TV show that everyone seems to like but you don’t like? Why?
Answer:
8. Suggest a good TV show (Japanese and English) that I should watch.
Answer:
9. How many hours a day do you watch television?
Answer:
10. Would you ever join a talent competition show on television? Why or why not?
Answer:

Intermediate: Business

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. profitable
  2. suburb
  3. pharmacy
ANSWER
1. word:
P
R
O
F
_
T
A
_
L
E
meaning: [adjective] making an income
sentence: In just few months, her clothing business became ___________ .
2. word:
S
_
B
U
R
B
meaning: [noun] a residential community
sentence: After living in a busy town for many years, he decided to live in the __________.
3. word:
P
H
_
R
M
_
C
Y
meaning: [noun] a store where medicines are sold
sentence: The nearest ________ is fifteen minutes drive from here.
READING ALOUD
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
READ
I’m so glad to see you, Emma. I heard you’re planning to start a pharmacy. Is that true?
Indeed, Ron. I’ve noticed that there’s no pharmacy around my area. We have to go down town for the nearest one. I figured that a pharmacy would be a profitable small business in the suburb—there are many school children and elderly.
Cool! I wish I could start a business on my own someday. Anyway, if you need any help in accounting, I’d be glad to offer my services.
Thanks, Ron. I will be securing business permits, licenses, contracts, and other documents soon. I will definitely need your help. If you want, we can start this business together.
Sure, thanks for the offer. When do you want the business to be fully operational?
Hopefully, within the first quarter of next year. There are many things to do and I would never bring a knife to a gunfight. Things likes this needs time and preparation.
I agree. Let’s think about the business plan, soon.
How about, we meet tomorrow after work at my place? I have drafted a business plan, already. I want you to check it.
CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Please answer the questions in complete sentences.
ANSWER
1. What type of business is Emma planning to start?
Answer:
2. What are the things does Emma need help with?
Answer:
3. What is Ron’s profession?
Answer:
4. What does Emma mean by, “bring a knife to a gunfight”?
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. A lot of entrepreneurs say that a wasted time is a wasted money. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
2. Would you rather start a business that sells products or a business that provides services? Why?
Answer:
CONVERSATION PRACTICE
Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.
ANSWER
1. Is there a particular business industry you would like to work for? Would you rather work for a big company or a small company?
Answer:
2. If you were to start a business, what would it be? Why?
Answer:
3. What kind of businesses are successful in your country?
Answer:
4. What type of business you would like to give importance in your country?
Answer:
5. Do you think it’s possible to live in a world where all businesses are government-owned?
Answer:

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: