25 Common English Idioms

for ESL Students

www.teacherjoe.us

The idioms and expressions below are some of the most common in English. The example
sentences show how idioms are used in context. Have fun!

1. As easy as pie means "very easy" (same as "a piece of cake")

Example: He said it is a difficult problem, but I don't agree. It seems as easy as pie to me!

2. be sick and tired of means "I hate" (also "can't stand")

Example: I'm sick and tired of doing nothing but work. Let's go out tonight and have fun.

3. Bend over backwards means "try very hard" (maybe too much!)
Example: He bent over backwards to please his new wife, but she never seemed
satisfied.

4. Bite off more than one can chew means "take responsibility for more than one can
manage"
Example: John is so far behind in his studies. Besides classes, he plays sports and works
at a part-time job. It seems he has bitten off more than he can chew.

5. Broke means "to have no money"

Example: I have to borrow some money from my Dad. Right now, I'm broke.

6. Change one's mind means "decide to do something different from what had been
decided earlier"
Example: I was planning to work late tonight, but I changed my mind. I'll do extra work
on the weekend instead.

7. Cut it out! Means "stop doing something bad"

Example: That noise is really annoying. Cut it out!

8. Drop someone a line means "send a letter or email to someone"

Example: It was good to meet you and I hope we can see each other again. Drop me a
line when you have time.

9. Figure something out means "come to understand a problem"

Example: I don't understand how to do this problem. Take a look at it. Maybe you can
figure it out.

10. Fill in for someone means "do their works while they are away"
Example: While I was away from the store, my brother filled in for me.

11. In age’s means "for a very long time"

Example: Have you seen Joe recently? I haven't seen him in ages.

12. Give someone a hand means "helps"

Example: I want to move this desk to the next room. Can you give me a hand?

13. Hit the hay means "go to bed" (also "hit the sack")
Example: It's after 12 o'clock. I think it's time to hit the hay.
14. In the black means "the business is making money, it is profitable"
Example: Our business is really improving. We've been in the black all year.

15. In the red means "the business is losing money, it is unprofitable"

Example: Business is really going poorly these days. We've been in the red for the past
three months.

16. In the nick of time means "not too late, but very close!"
Example: I got to the drugstore just in the nick of time. It's a good thing, because I really
need this medicine!

17. Keep one's chin up means "remain brave and keep on trying"
Example: I know things have been difficult for you recently, but keep your chin up. It
will get better soon.

18. Know something like the back of your hand means "know something very, very
well"

Example: If you get lost, just ask me for directions. I know this part of town like
the back of my hand

19. Once in a while means "sometimes, not very often"

Example: Have you been to the new movie theater? No, only see movies once in a while.
I usually stay home and watch TV.

20. Sharp means "exactly at a that time"

Example: I'll meet you at 9 o'clock sharp. If you're late, we'll be in trouble!

21. sleep on it means "think about something before making a decision"

Example: That sounds like a good deal, but I'd like to sleep on it before I give you my
final decision.

22. take it easy means "relax"

Example: I don't have any special plans for the summer. I think I'll just take it easy.

23. to get the ball rolling means "start something, especially something big"
Example: We need to get this project started as soon as possible. I'm hoping you will help
me get the ball rolling.

24. up to the minute means "the most recent information"

Example: I wish I knew more about what is happening in the capital city. We need more
up to the minute news.

25. twenty-four/seven means "every minute of every day, all the time"
Example: You can access our web site 24/7. It's very convenient!

The idioms and expressions below are some of the most common in English. The example
sentences show how idioms are used in context. Have fun!

26. All of a sudden means "unexpectedly", used to describe something that happens very
quickly
Example: He had just gone to bed when all of a sudden the phone rang.

27. Be all ears means "eager and ready to listen"

Example: Go ahead and speak. I'm all ears!
 28. Be fed up with means "to hate something now, even though I may have liked it
before"
Example: I'm fed up with my job! I think I should start looking for a new one.

29. to bug means "to bother someone". (American English)

Example: Hey, stop tapping your fingers. It's really bugging me!

30. a cinch means something that is very easy to do

Example: I didn't think I could run five kilometers, but with the right preparation, it was a
cinch.

31. Cost an arm and a leg means "very expensive"

Example: I'd really like a new car, but they all cost an arm and a leg.

32. To cram means "to study hard a few days before a test"
Example: If you had studied hard for the past four months, you wouldn't have to cram so
much this weekend.

33. Fresh out of something means "to have no more of something"

Example: I have to go buy some more milk. It seems we're fresh out now.

34. To get it (often negative) means "to understand"

Example: What did the teacher say? I didn't get it. Did you?

35. Got a minute? Means "Do you have time right now?"
Example: Hey, Joe, got a minute? I have something to show you.

36. Give someone a hand means "help someone"

Example: Could you give me a hand moving this table? It's quite heavy.

37. Grab a bite to eat means "quickly go get something to eat"

Example: I'm going to go grab a bite. I'll be back in a few minutes.

38. Drive someone up a wall (or "drive someone crazy") means "to make someone very
angry"
Example: My neighbor practices the piano every night, but he's terrible. It's driving me
up the wall!

39. To hang on means "to wait"

Example: Hang on a few minutes. I have to make a phone call and then I'll be able to join
you for lunch.

40. Hard headed means "stubborn" or "unwilling to change an opinion or idea

Example: I can't work with Joe any more. He's so hard headed!

41. Have a change of heart means "change a previous decision"

Example: I thought I would change jobs, but now that my boss is treating me with more
respect, I've had a change of heart.

42. Have mixed feelings about something means "to be uncertain"

Example: I have mixed feelings about Joe. He's a very good teacher, but he has a very
strange sense of humor!
43. Head out for means "to start on a long trip" (but it could be within a big city)
Example: We're heading out for the countryside to pick some apples. Would you like to
join us?

44. How come? Means "Why?"

Example: How come we don't go to the movies any more? I guess we're too busy to enjoy
ourselves these days.

45. keep in touch (or "stay in touch") means "do not stop communicating - send letters or
call sometimes"
Example: Don't forget to keep in touch. I want to know how you're doing while you're
away.

46. Be kidding means "to joke or tease someone in a playful way"

Example: No, I don't really have three wives - I was just kidding!

47. Look down on means "think someone or something is not good enough"
Example: We shouldn't look down on people just because they don't have as much money
as we do.

48. Make ends meet (often used negatively) means "to have enough money to buy
everything we need"
Example: Even though I make more money than last year, we just can't seem to make
ends meet.

49. Miss the boat means "to miss an opportunity"

Example: The sale ends today at noon. If we don't hurry, we're going to miss the boat!

50. next to nothing means "to cost very little"

Example: I went to the new discount store and bought these new shoes for only five
dollars. That's next to nothing!

The 200 Most Common Words in English

It is said that 80% of all English sentences can be formed using just the most common 200
words. You do NOT need many words to speak English well. You must learn to USE
words well!

Do you know all of the words below? Can you use them? Then you are more than half
way home!

1 the 51 about 101 because 151 form

3 of 52 than 102 good 152 off
4 and 53 into 103 each 153 child
5a 54 could 104 those 154 few
6 to 55 state 105 feel 155 small
7 in 56 only 106 seem 156 since
8 he 57 new 107 how 157 against
9 have 58 year 108 high 158 ask
10 it 59 some 109 too 159 late
11 that 60 take 110 place 160 home
12 for 61 come 111 little 161 interest
 62 these 112 world 162 large
13 they
63 know 113 very 163 person
14 I
64 see 114 still 164 end
15 with
65 use 115 nation 165 open
16 as
66 get 116 hand 166 public
17 not
67 like 117 old 167 follow
18 on
68 then 118 life 168 during
19 she
69 first 119 tell 169 present
20 at
70 any 120 write 170 without
21 by
71 work 121 become 171 again
22 this
72 now 122 here 172 hold
23 we
73 may 123 show 173 govern
24 you
74 such 124 house 174 around
25 do
75 give 125 both 175 possible
26 but
76 over 126 between 176 head
27 from
77 think 127 need 177 consider
28 or
78 most 128 mean 178 word
29 which
79 even 129 call 179 program
30 one
80 find 130 develop 180 problem
31 would
81 day 131 under 181 however
32 all
82 also 132 last 182 lead
33 will
83 after 133 right 183 system
34 there
84 way 134 move 184 set
35 say
85 many 135 thing 185 order
36 who
86 must 136 general 186 eye
37 make
87 look 137 school 187 plan
38 when
88 before 138 never 188 run
39 can
89 great 139 same 189 keep
40 more
90 back 140 another 190 face
41 if
91 through 141 begin 191 fact
42 no
92 long 142 while 192 group
43 man
93 where 143 number 193 play
44 out
94 much 144 part 194 stand
45 other
95 should 145 turn 195 increase
46 so
96 well 146 real 196 early
47 what
97 people 147 leave 197 course
48 time
98 down 148 might 198 change
49 up
99 own 149 want 199 help
50 go
100 just 150 point 200 line

A Job Interview
Fay needs advice from Jerry on how to succeed at a job interview in English
Fay: Hi Jerry. I'm thinking of applying for a job with a multinational company, but I'm
worried about having an interview in English. Can you give me any good tips?

Jerry: Hmmm. That's a tough one. I guess the first thing is to try to make a good
impression. We often say, "you never get a second chance to make a first impression". You
really need to get off to a good start.

Fay: That sounds like good advice. Maybe I could sing and dance for them, ha ha ha! Then
they'd really be impressed! But seriously, how do I make a good first impression?
Jerry: To begin with, you should firmly shake the interviewer's hand while greeting him or
her with a smile. Be sure to keep eye contact, especially when listening to the interviewer.

Fay: Ah, "body language" is really important, isn't it?

Jerry: Yes, it is. The second thing is to have confidence. You get confidence from being
prepared. You should learn a little bit about the company before the interview. Find out
what they do, how long they've been in business, what their business motto is, that kind of
thing. You should also anticipate possible questions, and think about how you will answer.

Fay: Should I memorize my answers beforehand?

Jerry: No! Definitely not! That sounds very mechanical. You should be natural when you
speak. Just think about how you want to answer, and choose the right words at the time of
the interview. That way, you can use the interviewer's own words in your answer, which
shows you've been listening. Then you're sure to make a good impression.

Fay: I never thought about that before. You're really smart, Jerry! But what should I do if I
can't remember an English word when I'm answering a question?

Jerry: In that case, you have to paraphrase. In other words, you have to explain what you
want to say. For example, if you forget the word "manufacturing", you can say "making a
product" instead. Or instead of "statistics" you could say "using many big numbers to
describe something".

Fay: That's very helpful, Jerry. Thanks so much. Ah, one more thing. Should I ask about
the salary during the interview?

Jerry: No, either let them bring up the topic of money, or else wait for a second interview.
If you prepare well, make a good first impression, have confidence, and use English
naturally, you're almost certain to be interviewed again. Good luck!

Fay gives Jerry some advice on how to bargain for a lower price.
Jerry: Fay, I heard that people have to bargain whenever they go shopping in China. Is that
true?

Fay: Well, you don't have to bargain when you go to a department store or a supermarket,
but in most other places, you can try to get a better price.

Jerry: We rarely do that in the States. I'm not really sure how to do it. Could you give me
some pointers?

Fay: Sure, it's easy. Anybody can do it. The first thing you must do is some research. Ask
around and find out what a fair price is for what you want to buy. When you know what a
normal price is, you are ready to bargain.

Jerry: That makes sense. If I don't know what a fair price is, the seller can ask for any
price, and I would probably pay it! So, now I'm ready to go to a market. What's next?

Fay: First, ask how much something is. In Chinese that's, "Duo Xiao qian?” If the price is
much higher than you're willing to pay, say so. In Chinese you would say "Tai guay le".
Then you ask for a lower price. You should offer less than what you really want to pay.

Jerry: That way, I can bargain up to my price, right?

Fay: Right! The seller will make a counter-offer. If you think it's still too high, and the
seller refuses to go any lower, just walk away. If the seller is really able to meet your price,
he or she will call you back. In that case, don't give in. Keep trying to get your price.

Jerry: What if the seller doesn't call me back?

Fay: You can always try again with the next vendor. If the seller's last price is not too high,
you might accept it. Just be sure you don't pay too much!

Jerry: That seems pretty easy. Bargaining sounds like a lot of fun!

Fay: It is! And just like with learning a language, you'll get better at it the more you
practice.

Going to the Great Wall

Jerry wants to visit the Great Wall, so he asks Fay for some suggestions.
Jerry: Fay, I've heard it said that you are not a "true man" until you've stood on the Great
Wall. I'd like to visit the Wall this weekend. Do you know how I can get there?

Fay: There are two ways to go there. You could go there directly by bus or train, or you
could join a group tour.

Jerry: Is one way better than the other?

Fay: Going with a group is certainly more convenient. Everything is taken care of for you,
including lunch and tickets to places of interest along the way. It usually costs around 100
RMB.

Jerry: That sounds like a good deal.

Fay: On the other hand, if you go directly, you won't stop along the way, which means you
can spend more time at the Wall itself. It's also cheaper.

Jerry: Well, I like to go off on my own. I think going directly would be better for me. Do
you know how I can get there?

Fay: I've heard the cheapest way is by minibus number 919, which you can catch near the
Jishuitan subway station. It costs only 10 yuan! There's also a train which starts on the
west side of the city which goes directly to the Wall, but I've never taken it. I know there's
a small station outside the west gate of Beijing Aeronautics University. You could go there
and ask around.

Jerry: That's very close to where I live, so I'll check it out! By the way, have you ever been
to the Great Wall?

Fay: Yes, I have. It was VERY impressive! Not only is it so long, but I was surprised at
how steep the steps are. It's almost like climbing a mountain! The scenery from the wall is
quite spectacular. Looking out from the Wall, you can really get a sense of history.

Jerry: Great! I'm really looking forward to it. So Fay, since you've been to the Great Wall,
you are a "true man", right?
Fay: Yes, now I drink lots of beer and even smoke cigars!

Jerry: Really?!?

Fay: Of course not, I'm just kidding!

Visiting a Primary School

Jerry tells Fei about his first visit to a Chinese primary school
Jerry: Hi Fei, how was your day?

Fei: Hi Jerry, I've been looking for you. Where have you been?

Jerry: I just had a very interesting experience. I spent the whole day with dozens of little
children!

Fei: That sounds like fun.

Jerry: Yes, it was fun... but exhausting! Kids have so much energy.

Fei: Where did you meet all these kids?

Jerry: At the primary school down the street. I visited some of their classes in the morning,
then taught them some simple English in the afternoon.

Fei: English must be very difficult for them.

Jerry: Actually, they were very eager to learn. I was quite impressed.

Fei: What did you teach them?

Jerry: One teacher gave me some sentences to practice. The kids love to repeat things out
loud! Sometimes I shouted the sentences, and they shouted back at me. Other times I
whispered, and they whispered back. They were very cute.

Fei: Yes, I can imagine.

Jerry: We also sang songs and played some English games together.

Fei: That's great. You know, when I was in primary school, we never had English lessons.

Jerry: How about in middle school?

Fei: We studied English, but only for a test. It wasn't very practical.

Jerry: Well, you've managed to learn English very well. I guess it's because you're a
"Super Student".

Fei: Ha ha ha. Not me! The kids you saw today seem to be much more "super" than I am.
They're the future of China.

Jerry: Yes, they are, so China must have a bright future! I wonder what this country will be
like in 15 or 20 years when these kids are adults...
 New Job!
Fei is telling Jerry about her new job with LMONOP Corporation
Fei: Jerry, do you remember that job interview I had a while ago?

Jerry: Yes, you went to LMNOP Corporation, right?

Fei: That's right. You have a good memory! They called me in for a second interview...

Jerry: That's a good sign. It means they like you.

Fei: Yes, I must have made a good impression on them.

Jerry: How did the second interview go?

Fei: I really prepared thoroughly for this one. I asked the interview a lot of tough questions
about the company and the job, and then I presented my ideas on how I would do the job.

Jerry: What was their reaction?

Fei: I think I really impressed them. They gave me a job right on the spot!

Jerry: That's great! What will you are doing for them?

Fei: I will have several duties to perform. The first is to organize meetings. Then I'll have
to present plans to clients.

Jerry: Do you mean that you will have to give speeches?

Fei: Yes, something likes that. I will give formal presentations. I have to admit, I'm a bit
nervous about that.

Jerry: I'm sure you'll do fine, as long as you prepare as well as you prepared for the
interview.

Fei: I'll have more to do than that. I'll also have to follow-up through email or on the
telephone. I think I'm going to be very busy. Do you have any tips for me?

Jerry: You'll have to learn how to manage your time well.

Fei: How can I "manage" my time?

Jerry: Well, the first thing you have to do is "prioritize".

Fei: I know that "prior" means "before", but I can't figure out what "prioritize" means...

Jerry: It means to decide what should come first. In other words, what are your most
important tasks? You should spend most of your time on the most important projects.

Fei: Oh yes, I've heard of that. Isn't there a rule, something like the 80-20 rule?

Jerry: Exactly! You’re most important projects will be about 20% of your total work, but
they're so important that you should devote 80% of your time and effort to them. The other
tasks aren't so important, so they can be put off til later.
Fei: I see. I can't put off the most important jobs, so I have to be sure to get those done no
matter what.

Jerry: I'm sure you'll do just fine in your new job. When are you going to start?

Fei: In two weeks. I'm really excited about it!

Preparing for Summer Vacation

Fay asks Jerry about his plans for the summer and is a bit surprised.
Fay: Hi Jerry. The school year is almost over. Do you have any plans for the summer
holiday?

Jerry: I'm planning on sleeping all day, every day!

Fay: Oh, come on Jerry, you must be kidding.

Jerry: Yeah, I'm just pulling your leg. Actually, I'm going to go down to Guizhou Province.

Fay: Really? Why would you go to Guizhou? It's not a very popular tourist site.

Jerry: Exactly! It's not very popular, so it won't be too crowded. I enjoyed my trip to the
Great Wall, but there were so many people there. I think it spoiled the atmosphere a bit.

Fay: I'm sure Guizhou won't be so crowded. But won't it be too hot in the summer?

Jerry: No, according to one of my students, it's very cool in the summer. He said it is
"naturally air conditioned".

Fay: Well, that sounds good. I wouldn't mind getting away from the Beijing heat myself.
Still, I wonder... is there anything worth seeing in Guizhou?

Jerry: Sure! For one thing, there's the beautiful natural scenery. I'm sure you've heard of
the Huang Guo Shu Waterfalls. There's also the Mailing Gorge which is said to be
spectacular. There are mountains everywhere in Guizhou, even in the capital city of
Guiyang.

Fay: Yes, I have heard of Huang Guo Shu Pubu, but won't you get bored just looking at the
scenery?

Jerry: Come on Fay, there's lots of things to do. I can go hiking in Qian Ling Park in
Guiyang, visit Miao villages in the southeast, and I know you've heard of Zunyi, a very
historical city. It's where Mao Ze Dong first became the leader of the Red Army.

Fay: Gee, when you describe it like that, it sounds really interesting!

Jerry: And that's not all. I'll be able to eat very delicious, spicy food, drink world-famous
maotai, and my student told me I can meet some very beautiful women there!

Fay: I'm sure you'll have fun Jerry, but let me give you some advice. Be sure to hold onto
your wallet AND your heart!

Jerry: We'll see what happens!

Fay: Do you have a place to stay in Guizhou?

Jerry: Yes, I'm very lucky. My student's sister is the manager of the Guizhou Park Hotel,
the best hotel in the province. I've seen some pictures on the Internet, it's really nice! But I
think outside Guiyang, I'll stay in a Miao village or maybe buy a tent and go camping.

Fay: That's great, Jerry. I'm looking forward to seeing your photos when you get back.

Should I Go to Shanghai?
Fay asks Jerry's advice about going to Shanghai to work.
Fay: Hi Jerry! Welcome back from summer vacation. Did you have a good time in
Guizhou?

Jerry: Yes, I did. It was everything I expected, and more. How about you? Did you go
anywhere?

Fay: Yes, as a matter of fact I did. I spent a week in Shanghai. I'm thinking about getting a
job there.

Jerry: Ah, Shanghai - such a wonderful city! You'll really enjoy living there.

Fay: Hmm... I'm not so sure. Shanghai has a lot going for it, but I like Beijing too.

Jerry: What do you like best about Shanghai?

Fay: Shanghai is the business center of China, so there are lots of jobs, and there's always
something new. It's more modern than Beijing and generally a convenient place to live.

Jerry: Why would you want to stay in Beijing?

Fay: For one thing, Beijing has a sense of history about it. You know, there's no Great Wall
in Shanghai!

Jerry: That's for sure. There's no Forbidden City or Summer Palace, either.

Fay: For another thing, I think people are friendlier in Beijing. Still, I think I'd like to
marry a man from Shanghai.

Jerry: But you just said people from Beijing are friendlier!

Fay: Yes, generally speaking. But I've heard that men from Shanghai will help their wives
with housework. That's the kind of husband for me!

Hiking Up Xiang Mountain

Fay and Jerry decide to go hiking to the top of Xiang Mountain, west of Beijing.
Jerry: Wow, we're finally here. Look at all the people!

Fay: It doesn't seem so crowded to me. This is normal in Beijing!

Jerry: I guess we're not the only ones who want to get more exercise. ("ones" = "people")

Fay: Are you ready to start hiking?

Jerry: Let's see... I have enough water, and some snacks to eat on the way... Yes, I'm ready.
Go ba?

Fay: "Go ba"?? In Chinese, we usually say "Zou ba?".

Jerry: Yes, my teacher taught that to us. But Chinese "zou" and English "go" rhyme, so my
students sometimes combine Chinese and English - they call it "Chinglish"! ("rhyme" =
"have the same sound")

Fay: I see. So the answer to "Go ba" in "Chinglish" could be "Let's zou"!

Jerry: That's right: Let's zou!

(Fay smiles at Jerry, and they start climbing. Thirty minutes pass...)

Fay: Oh, I think I need to take a break. I'm exhausted! We haven't gone very far. How can
I be so tired?

Jerry: Maybe you should get more exercise.

Fay: You don't seem to be tired at all. Why not?

Jerry: It could be because I exercise regularly. I play tennis three times a week.

Fay: That could be it... We all need to keep our bodies in shape, don't we?

(Fay and Jerry arrive at the top of Xiang Mountain.)

Jerry: Wow, what a beautiful view!

Fay: Look to the east. We can see the Summer Palace!

Jerry: Oh, is that Kunming Lake?

Fay: Yes, it is. And further out we can see the center of Beijing.

Jerry: It sure is breathtaking! I'm glad we came here on a clear day. You know, I'm really
glad I came to Beijing. It's a very nice city, very "liveable".

Fay: I'm really glad we came here today. We've had a great time together!

Jerry: But you need to get into better shape, so we can do this kind of thing more often.

Fay: I guess you're right... Hey, I have an idea... Why don't you teach me how to play
tennis. Then we can spend lots more time together!

One Whole Year in Beijing

Jerry and Fei reflect on what they've done in the past year.
Fei: Jerry, you've been in Beijing for a whole year now.

Jerry: Oh, that's right. I hadn't thought about it. This is my first anniversary!

Fei: What do you think of your first year in Beijing? Was it a good one?
Jerry: Yeah, it was wonderful. Now that I think about it, I really did a lot... I've learned a
lot of Chinese. I can read more than 500 Chinese characters now.

Fei: And you've visited lots of new and interesting places.

Jerry: That's for sure! I've seen all of the great sites in and around Beijing, plus I visited
Guizhou Province. Not too many people from my hometown have been there before! But
how about you Fei. You must have done some special things in the past year.

Fei: Yes, I had a great year too, thanks to you, Jerry! I've really learned how to do many
things. My English is better than it was... you taught me how to succeed at a job
interview... you taught me how to play tennis...

Jerry: Hey, it wasn't me! You did it all yourself. You should give yourself some credit for
being such a good student.

Fei: Don't you think it's important to be modest?

Jerry: Sometimes it is. But sometimes you have to show confidence in your ability, too.

Fei: Okay, I'll do my best. Now, how about this year? Have you made any special plans?
Many Americans make some special "resolution" for the New Year, don't they?

Jerry: Yes, I've made a couple of New Year's resolutions. I've decided that this year I'm
going to learn even more Chinese. I hope I'll be able to speak fluently by the end of the
year. Also, I want to travel all around the country.

Fei: That will be fun. You'll be able to practice Chinese while you travel. Are there any
special places you want to visit?

Jerry: I want to go all over - to the old capital city, Xi'an, to see the ice festival up north in
Heilongjiang, to see the beautiful island of Hainan, and most of all, to visit Qingdao.

Fei: Why do you want to see Qingdao most of all? Is it because of the old style buildings?
Or for the clean, sandy beaches? Or maybe because it's famous for having the most
beautiful women in China?

Jerry: No, no, and no! I want to go to Qingdao because of the beer!

Fei: You're silly, Jerry!

Jerry: Well, what about you Fei? What would you like to achieve this year?

Fei: Let's see... I'd like to learn more English, so that I can watch movies and sing songs in
English. And I'd also like to improve my performance at work.

Jerry: That shouldn't be too hard for you. I mean, for such a good student and a hard
worker.

Fei: Thank you Jerry. It's very kind of you to say so!

My Favorite Place
Fei introduces Jerry to her favorite place in all of Beijing.
Jerry: What a beautiful summer's day! There's not a cloud in the sky.
Fei: Hey, I have an idea. Let's go somewhere special. I can introduce you to my favorite
place in Beijing.

Jerry: Sure, I'd like to see that, but what is it exactly?

Fei: You'll see when we get there. Come on, we can catch the 107 bus across the street...

(10 minutes later, Fei and Jerry arrive. They go for a walk.)

Fei: Can you see all those people across the street?

Jerry: Yes, they're all dancing. I like the Chinese style music, but they're doing Western
style dancing. It seems a bit odd to me. Are we going to dance today?

Fei: Not today - maybe when we get older! Look beyond the dancers. What do you see?

Jerry: Hey, there's a little pond over there. It looks very pleasant in the middle of a big city.
Let's go take a closer look. I never knew there was a pond in the middle of Beijing.

Fei: Actually, there are SIX! They're all man-made. There are two ponds to the west of the
Forbidden City called Nan Hai, which could be called South Pond and Zhong Hai, or
Middle Pond. The government offices surround those Ponds, so they're not open to the
public. To the north of those ponds is...

Jerry: Let me guess. It must be North Pond!

Fei: Good guess! You're right, it's Bei Hai or I suppose we could say North Pond. We
could see Bei Hai if we went through that gate over there, but we would have to pay. We
can walk around the other three for free. This one is called Qian Hai or Front Pond, then
there's Hou Hai or Back Pond. Finally, beyond Hou Hai is...

Jerry: Let me guess again. Is it Beyond Pond?

Fei: Another good guess. But this time you're wrong! The sixth one is a bit to the west, so
it's called Xi Hai or West Pond.

Jerry: Those people on the water seem to be having fun. Can we rent a boat too?

Fei: Sure, but I don't feel like it today. Let's do it another time.

Jerry: Okay. What are those traditional style buildings on the other side of Qian Hai?

Fei: Those are restaurants and coffee shops. We can go over there for a rest later if you
want.

Jerry: You know, I think this would be a good place to have a drink, especially on a Friday
night after a long week at work. Too bad there aren't any bars here. Maybe we could open
a bar here. Isn't that a great idea?

Fei: Ha ha ha. Somebody beat you to that idea, Jerry. There are over 40 bars around Hou
Hai! We'll go there some evening when you want to unwind, okay?

Jerry: Okay, it's a deal!

 Flying Discs
Jerry is introducing Fei to a "tradition" from his country.

Fei: What is this place? It's so far from the center of Beijing. We seem to be in the middle
of nowhere!

Jerry: This is the International School of Beijing, where the Ultimate Frisbee club meets
every Sunday.

Fei: What the heck is Ultimate Frisbee??

Jerry: Hey! There are my friends over there!

Fei: What are they doing? It looks like they're throwing something, but I can't make it out.

Jerry: That's a flying disc, more commonly known as a frisbee.

Fei: Oh, I think we call it "fei pan" in Chinese.

Jerry: "Fei pan"?? It's named after you, Fei!

Fei: Oh PLEEEEEASE, Jerry. Quit your teasing.

Jerry: You taught me about Chinese kites, now I want to introduce you to this American
tradition. Ultimate Frisbee has really caught on as a sport since the 1970s.

Fei: Hey, look at that guy fly!

Jerry: What a catch! Jim isn't very tall, but he sure can run.

Fei: I saw someone just like him catch a frisbee on TV once, except it was a dog, not a
man!

Jerry: Well, we're just warming up now. Wait until the game starts.

Fei: Game? What kind of game?

Jerry: Ultimate Frisbee is a sport, similar to football or basketball. We have seven players
on each team. They have to throw and catch the disc. But we MUST catch the frisbee, or
else the other team gets it.

Fei: So what's the goal of Ultimate Frisbee?

Jerry: The goal is to catch the disc at the end of the field, beyond the "goal line".

Fei: It sounds like a blast!

Jerry: It is! It's fun and good exercise too. Are you up for it?

Fei: What?? You want ME to play?

Jerry: Sure! The best way to learn is to LEARN BY DOING!

 Happy Holidays!
Jerry and Fei are comparing Christmas customs in New York and Beijing.
Jerry: Look, Fei! I got a Christmas card from my sister.

Fei: It's very beautiful. Why are the words "Happy Holidays" written on the card?
Christmas is only one holiday. Shouldn't it be "Happy Holiday", without the "s"?

Jerry: We don't just celebrate Christmas during this season. We also celebrate the coming
of the New Year.

Fei: Oh, I never thought about that before. There's more than one holiday at the end of the
year.

Jerry: Now that I'm in China, I want to celebrate the holidays Chinese-style. What do you
and your family do for Christmas?

Fei: Actually, we don't do much at Christmas. It's not really a big family holiday. Young
people in China would rather spend Christmas Eve with their boyfriends or girlfriends.

Jerry: So is it something like a date night?

Fei: Yes, I guess you could say that. Christmas Eve is special, but we don't usually have
any special plans for Christmas Day.

Jerry: Don't people give gifts to each other like they do in the U.S.?

Fei: Many parents do give gifts to their kids. But more importanly, boyfriends give
wonderful, special, romantic gifts to their girlfriends!

Jerry: I see. How about the New Year in China. Is it a bigger holiday than Christmas?

Fei: Not really. We don't celebrate it because the Spring Festival is much more important
to us here in China.

Jerry: The Spring Festival is known around the world as "Chinese New Year". It's the
beginning of the year according to the traditional lunar calendar, isn't it?

Fei: That's right. The Spring Festival is the biggest family holiday in China, so we don't
celebrate the western New Year. How about in New York? Do people celebrate New Year's
Eve more or New Year's Day?

Jerry: There are two kinds of people who celebrate quite differently. Single people, or
couples without children, often go out late on New Year's Eve. They drink and party after
the clock strikes midnight. There are big parties all over, but the biggest is in Times Square
in Manhattan.

Fei: I guess they won't have much energy left over to do anything on New Year's Day,
then.

Jerry: Right. But there are families who don't do anything special on New Year's Eve.
Instead, they celebrate with their families on New Year's Day.

Fei: What do they do on New Year's Day?

Jerry: They have a big meal to celebrate and often watch parades in the big cities. The
parades are quite spectacular.

Fei: It sounds a little bit like our traditional Lion Dance.

Jerry: Yes, it's a lot like the Lion Dance, except there is no lion!

Read this conversation aloud to practice speaking English

Fei talks to Jerry about a popular hobby
Jerry: Hi Fei, how's the new job going?

Fei: It's very exciting and I'm really learning a lot. At the same time, it's also quite tiring. I
need a break today.

Jerry: How about if we go to lunch together?

Fei: No, I want to do something more active. I have an idea. Why don't we go to the park
and fly a kite!

Jerry: Are you kidding?

Fei: No, I'm serious. Flying kites is an ancient tradition here. Look, I have this kite my
uncle gave me.

Jerry: Hey, it's a butterfly. It must look really cool flying high in the sky!

Fei: So, are you up for it?

Jerry: Okay... But where can we fly a kite in such a big city?

Fei: We can go just down the street, at the Workers Stadium.

Jerry: You can fly kites in the stadium?

Fei: Well, not exactly. But we can fly them in the parking lot. Let's go!

Jerry: Okay, I'm right behind you!

(Twenty minutes later, they arrive at the north gate of the Workers Stadium.)

Jerry: Wow! So many kites!

Fei: Watch your step! Don't get run over by the rollerskaters.

Jerry: I have to watch out for those football players too! I didn't know this is such a
popular place.

Fei: I used to come here as a kid to play, and at night my mother and grandmother
sometimes came to dance.

Jerry: All of these kites are really beautiful. Look at that long one over there. It looks like a
dragon to me.

Fei: That's right, it is. The dragon is really impressive, but I prefer the bird kite over there.
Don't you think it's amazingly graceful?
Jerry: Yes, it looks like a real bird flying! It obviously takes real skill to fly these special
kites. I'm eager to see your butterfly up among the clouds.

Fei: Okay, hold onto the kite while I get the string ready. On the count of three, let go.
One... Two... Three... Here we go!!!

This English conversation first appeared in College English magazine in 2004.

Choosing Gifts
Fei is helping Jerry decide what gifts to give to his family back home.
Fei: Hi Jerry. Jerry? Oh, Jerry!!

Jerry: Oh, hi Fei. I didn't hear you approaching.

Fei: You were really lost in thought. Or were you sleeping?

Jerry: No, I wasn't sleeping, just thinking.

Fei: About what?

Jerry: Well, I'll be going back home to visit my family for a couple of weeks.

Fei: That's great. It's been a while since you've seen them, hasn't it?

Jerry: Yes, it's been quite a while.

Fei: So, you must be thinking about how happy you'll be to see them again.

Jerry: Yes, that's true. But I'm also thinking about what kinds of gifts I should bring back
from China for everyone - my brother, my sister, her husband and daughter, and of course,
for my parents.

Fei: Of course, you want to bring back some traditional things. How about some Chinese
kites?

Jerry: Hey, that's a good idea! You and I had a lot of fun flying kites together. I'm sure my
niece would get a kick out of flying a Chinese-style kites too.

Fei: And maybe you could bring back some masks from the Beijing Opera.

Jerry: Fei, you're a genius! Beijing Opera masks are not only very colorful, they're very
exotic too! My parents will really like them. Okay, now I have to think of something to
buy my sister. That's a tough one!

Fei: Don't be so pessimistic, Jerry. Does she like exotic fashions? Maybe you could bring
back a qipao, a traditional Chinese dress.

Jerry: Of course! Another great idea! How do you think of these ideas so easily, Fei?

Fei: Hey, you said it before... I'm a genius! Ha ha ha.

Jerry: Okay, now the toughest people to shop for - my brother and my sister's husband.
What in the world could I bring back for them?
Fei: Didn't you tell me that your brother is studying Chinese now?

Jerry: Yes, that's right. He hopes to come to China after he graduates from university.

Fei: So why not buy him a DVD so that he can watch a movie in Chinese?

Jerry: Sure, he'd love that. He's crazy about kung fu movies, so he can have fun and learn
at the same time! You amaze me, Fei.

Fei: Geniuses will do that! Okay, now for your brother-in-law. I think you're on your own
there!

Jerry: Well, I could just get him a "I've been to the Great Wall" t-shirt.

Fei: Or maybe he'd like a Chinese kite too. Or maybe a kung fu DVD.

Jerry: Right, or maybe a qipao!

Fei: That's a silly idea!!

Jerry: Yes, you're right. He's much too fat to wear a qipao!

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Fei gives some advice to Jerry, who isn't feeling well.
Fei: Hi Jerry, what's wrong? You look a bit under the weather.

Jerry: I'm not feeling very well. I seem to be coming down with another cold.

Fei: Not again! You had a cold last month, and the month before that, too.

Jerry: Well, there's not much I can do about it. I'm not sick on purpose. All I can do is take
some medicine and take it easy.

Fei: Would you mind if I made a suggestion?

Jerry: No, I don't mind. Go ahead.

Fei: Maybe you should try some traditional Chinese medicine.

Jerry: If it can help me get rid of this cold, I'd be willing to give it a shot.

Fei: Actually, it might not make a difference with this cold, but it can make your whole
body stronger so you won't catch so many colds.

Jerry: What's so special about traditional Chinese medicine?

Fei: One special point is that it's all natural. Chinese medicine is made from plants, not
chemicals, which means there are few side-effects.

Jerry: That's a big advantage. Some people can't stand the thought of taking medicine
because of all the chemicals.

Fei: Another advantage is that Chinese medicine works slowly, so it keeps your body
healthy in the long run.
Jerry: That sounds like just what I need! But, how does traditional Chinese medicine
work?

Fei: Basically, it helps balance two opposing forces in your body. In Chinese, we call these
forces "Yin", which is cold, dark and quiet, and "Yang", which is hot, bright and active. If
you have either too much "Yin" or too much "Yang", your body is out of balance, and you
are more likely to get sick. The purpose of traditional Chinese medicine is to put "Yin" and
"Yang" back in balance.

Jerry: I see. So how can I get my hands on some Chinese medicine. Can I buy it in any
pharmacy?

Fei: First, you should be examined by a traditional doctor. I know a good doctor just
around the corner.

Jerry: I'm a bit afraid, Fei. Will he give me any shots or anything like that?

Fei: Don't be afraid, Jerry. The doctor will just feel your pulse and check the color of your
tongue. It's very simple and painless!

Jerry: Great! I have some free time at the end of next week. How's your schedule on
Thursday or Friday?

Fei: I'm free both days. I'll call the doctor to set up an appointment, then let you know
what has been decided.

Jerry: That's wonderful Fei. It should be a very interesting experience for me.

Karaoke!
Fei invites Jerry to go sing some songs with her friends
Fei: Hey Jerry, my friends just invited me to go to "ka la okay" with them tonight. Would
you like to come along?

Jerry: Where are you going? California? Do you mean karaoke? We pronounce it "carry oh
key" in English, with the emphasis on the "oh".

Fei: Oh, I see. Do you want to go to karaoke with us? It'll be fun!

Jerry: Fei, I feel nervous when someone hands me a microphone. I freeze. I know I'm not a
very good singer.

Fei: That's strange! I thought Americans were very outgoing.

Jerry: Not me! I'm very shy, especially in front of a group of strangers.

Fei: Hey, my friends aren't strange!

Jerry: "Strangers" just means "people I don't know". It doesn't mean they are strange! Was
it easy for you to sing the first time you went to karaoke?

Fei: For me it was very easy, I love to sing! But now that you mention it, some of my
friends were very shy the first time they went. One of my friends says he has to have some
beer before he can sing in front of people. Maybe you should have one or two drinks
before singing.
Jerry: Yeah, one or two beers might help... or twenty!

Fei: Does that mean you'll come?

Jerry: Okay, I'll give it a try.

At the karaoke club...

Jerry: Oh, it's a private room! I thought we'd be singing in a crowded bar or restaurant.

Fei: No, we have this all to ourselves.

Jerry: That will make it easier maybe. Now, how does this work?

Fei: It's simple. Just choose a song and sing. Do you know "Hotel California"?

Jerry: Sure, everybody knows it.

Fei: Great, here it comes now! Good luck Jerry!

Jerry: What do you mean? I'm not ready to sing yet. I haven't even had ONE beer!

Fei: You'll just have to do your best. You know what they say: "Just do it!"

Jerry starts to sing. Two hours later...

Fei: Jerry, how many songs have you sung?

Jerry: Oh, at least 10.

Fei: I think it's been more like 20. Time to go home!

Jerry: Time to go home? But we're just getting started. Let's stay half an hour more.

Fei: Sorry, we have to go to work in the morning and you have to study. We'll come back
some other night.

Jerry: Great! How about tommorrow?

The Olympic Games in Beijing

Both Fay and Jerry have decided to stay in Beijing. They are talking about the future.
Jerry: Fay, have you decided to stay in Beijing?

Fay: Yes, I have. Shanghai is exciting, but Beijing is still home.

Jerry: That's a good idea. You'll be happier here. I think I'll stay here for a while myself, at
least until the Summer Olympics in 2008.

Fay: Oh really? Do you plan to go see the games while you're here?

Jerry: Sure, the Olympics are very exciting. It's like one big party! I had fun when I went
to previous Olympics.

Fay: What? You mean you've been to the Olympics before?

Jerry: Yes, I spent a few days in Atlanta in '96, and I saw the Winter Olympics in Nagano,
Japan in '98 too. You can see so many different people, hear different languages, do all
kinds of things. You can even see some sports if you really want to!

Fay: Ha ha ha. You're really funny, Jerry. So did you see many events?

Jerry: Actually, I didn't see so many. Believe it or not, it's better to watch the sports events
at home. It's more comfortable, you can see the games up close, and you get different
camera angles. Unless you can get good seats, watching in person isn't nearly as good.

Fay: That sounds very disappointing! Why should anyone go to see the Olympics?

Jerry: It's not disappointing at all. The atmosphere is what makes it all worthwhile. Also, I
got into collecting and trading Olympic pins when I was there. You can trade pins with
people from all over the world. I now have pins from more than 20 different countries. It's
a fun way to meet all kinds of people.

Fay: Did you meet any athletes?

Jerry: Yes, as a matter of fact, I met some of the Chinese women ice hockey players when
I was in Japan. They gave me this China pin in exchange for an American pin.

Fay: I think I'd like to have a Beijing 2008 Olympic pin! I wonder where I can get one?

Jerry: Well Fay, I just happen to have one right here.

Fay: Really? Can I have it?

Jerry: Sure... What do you have to trade for it???

Taking a Taxi
Jerry is worried about using a taxi in China, so he asks his Liu Fay how to use a taxi in
Beijing.
Jerry: Hey Fay, is there anything I need to know about taking a taxi in Beijing?

Fay: Well, it’s pretty easy, Jerry. The first thing you have to do is to signal by holding your
hand out. Next, you should find the right taxi. If you want to save money, you should find
a taxi that charges only 1.20 (“one point two”) yuan per kilometer. If you want a more
comfortable taxi, you can pay 1.60 yuan. The price is printed on a label shown in the back
window of each taxi.

Jerry: Okay. So what do I do after I get in the taxi?

Fay: Of course, you should greet the driver and tell him where you want to go. After he
starts driving, make sure he turns on the meter.

Jerry: What should I do if he can’t find my destination?

Fay: Then you have to give him directions. Tell him to turn left or right. That’s “zou guai”
or “you guai” in Chinese. Or tell him to keep going straight, “yizhi wang qian zou”.

Jerry: Got it! Then I guess all I have to do is pay the driver and say “good-bye”, right?
Fay: Well, not quite. You should always ask for a receipt, which is printed out for every
customer. That way, if you forget something in the taxi, you can get it back with no
problem.

Jerry: Thanks Fay, that’s a big help!

Surfing the Internet

Fay and Jerry talk about what they like to do online.
Fay: Hey Jerry, how often do you use the Internet?

Jerry: Oh, I use it everyday! I check my email, read the news, chat with family and friends
all around the world. I love the Internet!

Fay: Yeah, it's great, isn't it? Sometimes I stay online for hours. So, how do you connect to
the Net?

Jerry: Usually I just dial 163 or 96600 to log on, and I get billed directly to my telephone
account. It's quite convenient.

Fay: That must be slow! I have an ADSL connection, so I can download pictures and
music.

Jerry: Well Fay, I'm going to get a high-speed connection too, just as soon as I'm as rich as
you!

Fay: Poor, poor Jerry. I really feel sorry for you! Ha ha ha.

Jerry: Don't worry about me, Kiddo. I can still do everything I want. Just today I went to
the New York Times to read about what's happening back home, then I searched for some
information about how to play tennis better, and finally I used some software called Pal
Talk to chat with friends in France, Japan, and Argentina.

Fay: That's cool! You chat with them by typing text messages, right?

Jerry: Not only text, I do "voice chat" too. I have a microphone and speakers. It's like
using a telephone, but a whole lot cheaper.

Fay: Hey, I'd like to try that too. Can I just go to www.paltalk.com?

Jerry: Yes, that's right. Once you download their software, you can begin to chat right
away. You can speak to people all over the world and all you need is a mic!

Fay: That sounds like a good way to practice English. But sometimes I need more
stuctured English practice. Do you know any good sites specially made for students
learning English?

Jerry: Well, you could try http://www.teacherjoe.us for various kinds of materials. You
might be able to meet some fellow students there who can help you more.

Fay: Thanks Jerry, I think I'll try it out. Oh, I have to be going. You wouldn't happen to
know which bus I should take to get to the Foreign Book Store, would you?

Jerry: I think you can go to bjbus.com to find information on all the bus routes in town.
Fay: Too bad I don't have Internet wired directly to my brain! Now that would be
REALLY convenient.

Jerry: Well, maybe some day Fay, maybe some day...

Learning to Play Tennis

Jerry is giving Fay her first tennis lesson.
Fay: Jerry, could you show me how to hold the racket?

Jerry: Sure Fay, it's just like shaking hands. Hold your hand out as though you were going
to shake my hand...

Fay: Do you mean like this?

Jerry: Right, like that. Then put the racket in your hand, like this.

Fay: So now I'm ready to hit the ball!

Jerry: Remember what I told you. There are two types of swings, the forehand and the
backhand.

Fay: I remember. You told me hitting a forehand, starting on my right, is like hitting a ping
pong ball.

Jerry: Exactly. Why don't you try one now. Ready? Hit this!

Fay: Oops! I missed it completely!

Jerry: That's okay, try again. This time, keep your eye on the ball.

Fay: Keep my eye where?

Jerry: It's just an expression. "Keep your eye on the ball" means watch the ball carefully.

Fay: Oh, I see. Let me try again...

Jerry: Here comes another ball... Wow! You hit it over the fence! You're a very powerful
lady.

Fay: Hee hee hee. I guess I need to practice more.

Jerry: Sure, but with a bit of practice, you'll be able to keep the ball in the court.

Fay: Now what about the backhand?

Jerry: Many people think the backhand is difficult, but actually it's quite simple. It's a lot
like slapping your boyfriend in the face!

Fay: Huh? What do you mean?

Jerry: Just pull your racket back to your left, then imagine you see your boyfriend with
another woman!
Fay: Why that dirty rat!

Pictures in the Park

Jerry is taking photos in the park when Fei comes along.
Jerry: What are you doing Fei? Get out of the way!

Liu Fei: What do you mean? You don't want to take a picture of just flowers, do you?

Jerry: No, I want to take a picture of the flowers and the trees, the grass, the sky - a
beautiful portrait of nature. I'll call it "Spring in Beijing".

Liu Fei: Hey, that rhymes! "Spring in Beijing, with Fei in the way"! Hee hee hee.

Jerry: Nothing personal Fei, but I'm trying to get a perfect, unspoiled nature picture, very
pure, very simple. No people allowed!

Liu Fei: Let's just take a couple of regular pictures, then you can get back to your
"masterpiece".

Jerry: Oh, okay... Stand to the left of that tree and strike a glamorous pose.

Liu Fei: Glamorous? Hmmm, okay. How's this? Just hurry up snap the picture, I can't
stand on one leg all day!

Jerry: Okay, say "cheese"... Got it!

Liu Fei: Now let me take one of you.

Jerry: Oh no! This is taking way too much time. Besides, it might break the camera.

Liu Fei: I'll be careful, I promise.

Jerry: No, I don't mean you. I mean my funny face will crack the camera lens!

Liu Fei: Don't be silly, Jerry. Come on, give me the camera. Okay, what do I do?

Jerry: Wait until you see me in the middle of the picture and make sure I'm in focus. Then
just click the shutter, right here. It's as easy as taking candy from a baby.

Liu Fei: Huh? Why would I want to do that?

Jerry: It's just an expression, Fei...

Liu Fei: Well, okay... Anyway, here goes. Say "chie zi"!

Jerry: Good. I'm glad THAT's over with.

Liu Fei: Now we need to take a picture of both of us together. It will be such a wonderful
memory! We just have to find someone to take it for us...

Jerry: Oh no, when will this ever end?

China's Silicon Valley

 Fei helps Jerry buy a new computer in Beijing's Zhong Guan Cun district.
Jerry: I'm so glad you brought me to Zhong Guan Cun, Fei. I might never have found it by
myself.

Fei: No problem, Jerry. I'm always happy to help.

Jerry: Are you sure I can find what I want here?

Fei: Could you remind me exactly what you're looking for?

Jerry: I want to buy a very small computer, one that is very light and easy to carry. I want
to be able to prepare my lessons wherever I am - in a taxi, at a restaurant, even at the
beach.

Fei: Ha ha ha. That would be interesting to see you writing your lessons at the beach!
Anyway, I'm sure you can find what you want here. In this building they sell nothing but
electronics and computers.

Jerry: I see so many new building under construction here. I wonder what they will be.

Fei: They will probably be office buildings for "hi tech" companies. This part of Beijing is
called China's "Silicon Valley".

Jerry: Oh, I didn't know that! Well, let's go inside and take a look. Hey, look at all the cool
stuff here! Hmmm... Maybe I should buy an MP3 player while I'm here ... Or maybe a new
mobile phone...

Fei: Come on, Jerry. We had better go upstairs or you'll spend all of your money before we
even SEE the computers!

Jerry: Okay. Which floor are the computers on?

Fei: Let's see, there's a sign over here. They're on the 3rd and 4th floors. What brand do
you want to buy?

Jerry: I think I'd like to buy a SONY.

Fei: Well, you can't beat the quality!

Jerry: Yes, and SONY products are usually small and light.

Fei: Hey, here are some SONY computers. Why don't you ask the price. This is your
chance to practice your bargaining skills.

Jerry: Can we bargain in a big electronics store? I had no idea... Fei: Yes you can, but you
have to be good! I'm sure you can do it.

Jerry: Thanks for the vote of confidence. Okay, here goes... Uh, excuse me, could you tell
me how much this computer is...

Looking for a New Apartment

Fei is giving Jerry advice on how to find a new apartment.
Jerry: I think I really need to move, Fei. This apartment is too noisy and too dark. There
are so many cars going by, but no sun comes through the windows. Do you think it would
be easy for me to find a better apartment?

Fei: Sure. There are lots of apartments available in Beijing these days. Which part of the
city would you like to live in?

Jerry: I'd like to stay on the west side, near the universities, but I'd also like an apartment
near the subway.

Fei: Maybe you should consider the Xizhimen area. It's a very convenient location.

Jerry: Yeah, Xizhimen sounds good. It's also near the zoo and the National Library.

Fei: Next you have to think about rent. What price range are you thinking about?

Jerry: Well, I really can't pay more than 1500 yuan a month, but I'd like to pay 1000 if
possible.

Fei: What if you find a perfect apartment for 1800 yuan or 2000, something really
beautiful. Would you take it?

Jerry: No, I really can't afford to pay that much. 1500 yuan is definitely my limit.

Fei: I think 1000 is possible if you have a roommate. You could share an apartment with a
college student, or maybe a young worker.

Jerry: That might be interesting, but I really like my privacy. I need to study Chinese in a
quiet place and also sleep in peace every night.

Fei: Maybe it's best for you to pay a little bit more for your own apartment. So, the next
step is to decide what kind of apartment you want - how many rooms, what kind of
furnishings, stuff like that.

Jerry: I don't need any special furnishings, but I certainly want a southern exposure. I like
to have a bright, sunny room. One bedroom and one living room is enough, but I really
want to have a balcony.

Fei: That should be easy to find. Most apartment buildings have rooms facing south,
usually with a balcony. But if you only want to pay 1500 yuan, maybe you will only have
one room, not two.

Jerry: I see. That's a bit small compared to my apartment in New York. But I guess Beijing
is more crowded.

Fei: Maybe we'll get lucky and find something bigger. Let's wait and see.

Jerry: Okay, now that I know what I want, what do I have to do to actually find an
apartment?

Fei: I'll look through some advertisements and make some phone calls. Then we can go
check out the ones that sound good.

Jerry: That's great, Fei. I'm really looking forward to having a nice, new apartment!
Fei: Yes, a SUNNY new apartment!
 Jokes to Increase Your Vocabulary

Stolen Diamonds
The phone rings at police headquarters. "Hello?"
"Hello, is this the police?"
"Yes. How can I help you?"
"I'm calling to report my neighbor. He is hiding stolen diamonds in some fallen trees on
his property."
"Thank you for the tip." The police immediately go to the address given by the
informant. The police chop the trees into pieces, but find no diamonds.
Later the phone rings at the neighbor's house. "Hello! Did the police come?"
"Yes."
"Did they chop your firewood?"
"Yes, they did."
"Okay, now it's your turn to call. I need my vegetable garden plowed.

What if...?
Three guys were standing around talking about dying when one asked, "What would you
like people to say about you as they come to pay their last respects?" The second man
said, "I hope they say I was a respected doctor in my field, a good family man, and had
lots of friends." The third man said, "I hope they say I was a well spoken attorney, a good
citizen, helped my fellow man, and played a mean round of golf." The first man replied,
"That's probably what will be said of the two of you. My hope is that when they look
down in my coffin they say, 'Look...he's moving'"!

South for the Winter

Two friends in the town of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada were just fed up with the
long, harsh winter, so they went to a travel agent and booked a trip to Australia. They
arrived in Australia still wearing their down jackets, wool hats and snow boots. They
wandered into an airport pub and sat down. The locals wondered about these strangers,
so one of the Aussies walked over to the visitors and said, "G'day, mates. Where'er you
from?" One of the Canadians replied, "Saskatoon, Saskatchewan". The Aussie nodded his
head in acknowledgement and returned to his table where his buddies asked, "So where
are they from?" "Don't know," replied the Aussie. "They don't speak English."

A Foggy Night
One night at sea, in a thick fog, a captain noticed what appeared to be the lights of
another ship approaching. So he megaphoned, "Change course ten degrees south." The
answer came back, "You change course ten degrees north." Annoyed, he bellowed, "I'm a
captain and I order you to change course ten degrees south." Back came the answer, "I'm a
lighthousekeeper and I order you to change course ten degrees north."

Get the Picture?

A motorist was unknowingly caught in an automated speed trap that measured his speed
using radar and photographed his car. He later received in the mail a ticket for $40 and a
photo of his car. Instead of payment, he sent the police department a photograph of $40.
Several days later, he received a letter from the police that contained another picture - of
handcuffs!

A Jealous Wife
A man is sitting reading his newspaper when his wife sneaks up and whacks him on the
head with a frying pan. "What was that for?" he asks. "That was for the piece of paper in
your trousers pocket with the name Mary Ellen written on it" she replies. "Don't be silly,"
he says, "Two weeks ago when I went to the races, Mary Ellen was the name of one of the
horses I bet on."

She seems satisfied at this and apologizes. Three days later, he is again sitting in his chair
reading when she nails him with an even bigger frying pan, instantly knocking him out
cold. When he comes around he asks: "What was that for?"

"Your horse phoned!"

Biology Lesson
www.teacherjoe.us
One afternoon, a science teacher was lecturing his class in biology. Rather than just talk,
he planned a demonstration. So he said to his students, "Let me show you this frog in my
jacket pocket." He then reached into his pocket and pulled out a chicken sandwich. He
looked puzzled for a second, thought deeply, and said, "That's funny. I distinctly
remember eating my lunch."

Time to Get Up!

www.teacherjoe.us
Early one morning, a mother went in to wake up her son. "Get up, son. It's time to go to
school!"
"But why, Mom? I don't want to go."
"Give me two reasons why you don't want to go."
"Well, the kids hate me for one, and the teachers hate me, too!"
"Oh, that's no reason not to go to school. Come on now and get ready."
"Give me two reasons why I should go to school."
"Well, for one, you're 52 years old. And for another, you're the Principal!"

The Pope in New York

www.teacherjoe.us
The Pope had just finished a visit to New York City and was taking a limousine to the
airport. Having never driven a limo, he asked the chauffeur if he could drive for awhile.
The chauffeur, a good Catholic, couldn't refuse the Pope, so he climbed into the back seat
and let the Pope take the wheel.

The Pope got on the expressway and immediately accelerated to see what the limo
could do. When he got to about 90 mph the Pope heard sirens and saw the flashing blue
lights of the New York State police in his mirror.

The Pope pulled over and a trooper came to his window. The trooper, seeing who it was,
said "just a moment please. I need to call in." The trooper called the station and asked for
the chief. He told the chief, "I've got a REALLY important person pulled over and I need
to know what to do."
The chief replied "It's not the Mayor, is it?" The trooper said, "No, even more important."
The chief replied, "It's the Governor, is it?", the trooper replied "No, even more
important." "It can't be the President!" "No, more important", said the trooper.

"Well WHO the HECK is it !", screamed the chief.

"I don't know who he is," explained the trooper. "But he's got the Pope as a chauffeur."

A Race Horse?
www.teacherjoe.us
A man was sitting reading his newspaper when his wife snuck up and whacked him real
hard on the head with a frying pan.

"What was that for?" he asked.

"That was for the piece of paper in your trousers pocket with the name Mary Ellen written
on it" she replied.

"Don't be silly," he said, "Two weeks ago when I went to the races, Mary Ellen was the
name of one of the horses I bet on."

She seemed satisfied at this and apologized.

Three days later, he was again sitting in his chair reading when she nailed him with an
even bigger frying pan, instantly knocking him out cold.

When he came around, he asked, "What was that for?"

"Your horse phoned!"

Ten Dollars is Ten Dollars!

www.teacherjoe.us
Joe and his wife Martha went to the State Fair every year. Every year Joe would say,
"Martha, I'd like to ride in that airplane." And every year Martha would say, "I know, Joe,
but that airplane ride costs ten dollars, and ten dollars is ten dollars."

This one year Joe and Martha went to the fair and Joe said, "Martha, I'm 70 years old. If I
don't ride that airplane this year I may never get another chance." Martha replied, "Joe,
that airplane ride costs ten dollars, and ten dollars is ten dollars."

The pilot overheard them and said, "Folks, I'll make you a deal. I'll take you both up for
a ride. If you can stay quiet for the entire ride and not say one word, I won't charge you,
but if you say one word it's ten dollars."

Joe and Martha agreed and up they go. The pilot does all kinds of twists and turns, rolls
and dives, but not a word is heard. He does all his tricks over again, but still not a word.

They land and the pilot turns to Joe, "By golly, I did everything I could think of to get you
to yell out, but you didn't."

Joe replied, "Well, I was gonna say something when Martha fell out, but ten dollars is ten
dollars."
 Highway to Hawaii
www.teacherjoe.us
A guy was walking along the beach, found a bottle, and picked it up. A magical genie
popped out and said, "Thanks for letting me out. For your kindness I will grant you one
wish." The guy said, "I've always wanted to go to Hawaii, but I can't because I'm afraid to
fly and ships make me deathly sick. My wish is for you to build a highway from here to
Hawaii." The genie replied, "I'm sorry, but I don't think I can do that. Just think of all the
work involved. Think of the huge pilings we would need to hold up that highway and how
deep they would have to be to reach the bottom of the ocean. And think of all the cement
that would be needed. Plus, since it's such a long span, there would have to be gas
stations and rest stops along the way. No, that's just too much to ask. Impossible. Think of
another wish." The guy thought for a moment and said, "Well, there is one thing I've
always wanted to know. I'd like to be able to understand women - what makes them laugh
and cry, why are they so temperamental, why are they so difficult to get along with ...you
know, what makes them tick?" The genie thought for a second, then asked, "Do you want
that highway with two lanes or four?"

Wife Control
www.teacherjoe.us
Three men were at a bar, drinking beer. Two of the men were talking about the control
they have over their wives, while the third remained silent. After a while, the first two
men turned to the third and asked, "What about you? What kind of control do you have
over your wife?" The third man turned to the first two and said, "Well, I'll tell you, just the
other day I had her on her knees." The first two men were dumbfounded. "Wow! What
happened next?" they asked. The third man took a big swig of his beer, sighed and
muttered, "Then she started screaming, 'Get out from under the bed and fight like a
man!'"

A Birthday Cake
www.teacherjoe.us
A man wanted to celebrate his wife's birthday by throwing a party. So he went to order a
birthday cake. The baker asked him what message to put on the cake. He thought for a
while and said, "Let's put, 'You are not getting older, you are getting better' on the cake".

The baker then asked, "How do you want me to arrange it?" The man replied, "Well, put
'You are not getting older', at the top and 'you are getting better' at the bottom.

The real fun didn't start until the cake was opened and everyone at the party saw the
message on the cake: "You are not getting older at the top, you are getting better at the
bottom"!

Geography Class
www.teacherjoe.us
An elementary school teacher was trying to encourage her students to be active in class.
While teaching geography, she looked at one student and said, "Stanley, go to the map
and find North America". Stanley stood up, went to the front of the room where a world
map was hanging, and pointed to North America. "Correct!", the teacher exclaimed.
"Now class, can anyone tell me who discovered America?". The whole class shouted
together, "Stanley"!
 A Lucky Frog
www.teacherjoe.us
In the United States, you can call a telephone number and someone will predict your
future. This is called the 'psychic hotline'. Well, one day, a little green frog decided to call
the psychic hotline and see what his future held for him. The psychic told him, "You will
meet a very beautiful girl, who will want to know everything about you." "That's great !"
said the frog. "Where will I meet her? At a party, in the pond?" The psychic hesitated,
then responded, "You will meet her next semester, in the Biology lab!"

I can't stand to see a grown man cry!

A man was standing at a bar, just staring at his drink. He stayed there motionless for half
an hour. Then, a big trouble-making truck driver walked up to him, grabbed the drink
away from the man, and drank it all down in one gulp. The poor man started crying. The
truck driver said, "Come on man, I was just joking. Here, I'll buy you another drink. I
can't stand to see a grown man cry." "No, I don't want another drink. This day is the
worst of my life. First, I overlept and got to my office after 10. My boss was outraged
and fired me. When I left the building and went to the parking lot, I found my car was
stolen. The police said that they can't do anything about it. I got a cab to return home, and
when I got out, I suddenly remembered that I left my wallet and credit cards on the seat,
but the cab driver drove away quickly. Then I went home, and when I got there, I found a
note saying that my wife left me for good! I couldn't stand staying at home by myself, so I
came to this bar. And now, just when I was thinking about putting an end to my
miserable life, you show up and drink my poison."

It's All Relative

Albert Einstein, whose theory of relativity changed the study of physics forever, climbed
to the top of a very high mountain to get close enough to talk to God. Looking up, he
asked the Lord... "God, what does a million years mean to you?" He was surprised to
receive an answer at once! The Lord replied, "A minute." So Einstein asked, "And what
does a million dollars mean to you?" The Lord replied, "A penny." Then Einstein asked,
"Can I have a penny?" The Lord replied, "In a minute."
A Quick Review of Key Grammar Points for Students of
English as a Second Language

1. General Tips to help you learn English Grammar

Studying too much grammar can actually make your speaking worse, not better! Most students study
then forget, study and forget, study and forget. Instead of memorizing, Super Students learn English
grammar in context, the natural way.

Focus your efforts on grammar points that you can use again and again in your conversations. The most
important are NOUNS, VERBS and ASKING QUESTIONS.

Do not worry so much about English prepositions, transitive and intransitive verbs, phrasal verbs, etc.
These are details that you will master in time. You should focus first on sentence patterns that you can use
over and over again.

2. Master these three grammar points and you WILL be a better

speaker!
Asking and Answering Questions

Verb Tenses: Past, Present and Future

Noun Phrases

Asking and Answering Questions:

The First Key to Using English Grammar
There are two question types you must master before you can speak
English well: 1) Yes/No Questions and 2) Wh- Questions
1) Yes/No Questions - Listen carefully to these questions, then use the same question
words when you answer.

1. Do or Did
Do you like pizza? Yes I do.
2. Can
Can you play the piano? No I can't.
3. Be(Is/Are/Was/Were)
Are you from Singapore?

Were you at home last night?

4. Will
Will you come here tomorrow?
5. Have + past participle
Have you seen any good movies lately?
2) Wh- Questions - use a Wh- question word with a Yes/No question word.

1. Who
Who is your favorite singer?
2. What
What kind of music do you like?
3. When
When will you finish your work?
4. Where
Where can I buy a good suit?
5. Why + past participle
Why didn't you call me last week?
6. How + past participle
How can we get to the supermarket from here?

How long does it take to get there?

How far is it from here?

Verb Tenses:
The Second Key to English Grammar

I don't usually recommend memorizing anything, but this is one table you should try
to remember completely. (The seven tenses in blue are the most common. You will use
these almost every day, so learn them first.)
Twelve Basic
Past Present Future
Verb Tenses

1) Simple Tenses walked walk will walk

2) Continuous was walking am walking will be walking

Tenses

3) Perfect Tenses had walked have walked will have walked

4) Perfect had been walking have been walking will have been
Continuous Tenses walking

Sample Sentences:

• 1) Simple Tenses describe actions that are only one moment in time.

I walked to school yesterday.

I walk to school every day.

I will walk to school next Tuesday.

• 2) Continuous Tenses describe actions that continue, then another action happens
more quickly.

I was walking to school last Friday when it suddenly started to rain.

He is walking to school now, but you can find him if you hurry.

I will be walking to school this time next week, so you will be able to find
me easily.
 • 3) Perfect Tenses describe TWO moments in time, with emphasis on the second
one.

I had walked halfway to school before I remembered that I didn't have my

books.

I have always walked to school. (Emphasis is not spoken! It is on the

experience I have now - I am a person NOW who walks, not drives or takes
a bus or rides a bicycle.)

By the time the year is over, I will have walked a total of 300 kilometers!

• 4) Perfect Continuous Tenses describe actions that continue between TWO

moments in time.

I had already been walking halfway to school when I remembered that I

left my book at home.

I have been walking to school since I was 6 years old.

When I finish high school, I will have been walking to school for 12 years!

Longer Noun Phrases:

The Third Key to English Grammar
Students must move beyond single words and start to use longer and
longer phrases
Example 1 - adding details
boy
a boy
a tall boy
a tall, slim boy
a tall, slim boy with black hair
a tall, slim boy with long black hair

Example 2 - giving more information

a girl
a girl who likes basketball
a girl who is good at basketball
a girl who is quite good at basketball
a girl who is quite good at shooting a basketball
Learn Noun Phrases in Context

There are many kinds of noun phrases. By reading and listening to English as often as you
can, you will learn to use these kinds of phrases naturally and easily. Good luck!