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In Cuba, thousands protest against the government as the nation continues to suffer a severe economic crisis.

In Jordan, a state security court sentences two former officials to 15 years in prison for involvement in a plot against King Abdullah II.

In the Philipppines, hundreds march to China's consulate in Manila to mark the anniversary of a U.N. decision supporting the country's territorial rights in the South China Sea.

And in Japan, Tokyo begins another state of emergency shortly before the opening of the Olympic Games on July 23.

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Fighting between Hamas militants and Israeli forces intensifies.   Palestinian officials says Israeli airstrikes killed more than 50 Palestinians while Hamas rockets killed at least six Israelis. Chinese officials says they hope the U.S. will be "fair" to Chinese companies after the U.S. moves to lift restrictions on the Chinese communications equipment company Xaomi. The Philippines reports 287 Chinese ships entered the waters of its exclusive economic zone, calling the entries "illegal." And Japanese officials cancel the Olypmic torch ceremony in the Fukuoka area because of the coronavirus state of emergency.

Giao tranh giữa các tay súng Hamas và lực lượng Israel ngày càng gia tăng.   Các quan chức Palestine cho biết các cuộc không kích của Israel đã giết chết hơn 50 người Palestine trong khi tên lửa của Hamas giết chết ít nhất 6 người Israel.   Các quan chức Trung Quốc nói rằng họ hy vọng Mỹ sẽ "công bằng" với các công ty Trung Quốc sau khi Mỹ có động thái dỡ bỏ các hạn chế đối với công ty thiết bị truyền thông Trung Quốc Xaomi.   Philippines báo cáo 287 tàu Trung Quốc đã đi vào vùng biển thuộc vùng đặc quyền kinh tế của mình, gọi các hành động này là "bất hợp pháp".   Và các quan chức Nhật Bản đã hủy bỏ lễ rước đuốc Olymic ở khu vực Fukuoka vì tình trạng khẩn cấp do coronavirus.

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Special Saying for Mother’s Day

 

Jennifer Lopez performs with her mother, Guadalupe Rodríguez, at "Vax Live: The Concert to Reunite the World" on Sunday, May 2, 2021, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

And now, Words and Their Stories from VOA Learning English.

Mothers have been celebrated around the world since the days of ancient Greeks and Romans.

In the United States, Mother’s Day became a national holiday after an effort by Anna Jarvis “as a way of honoring the sacrifices mothers made for their children.” U.S. President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure in 1914 to officially set Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May.

Americans celebrate mothers by buying them gifts, taking them out for a meal, or surprising them with their favorite treat. Mother’s Day cards, either bought or made, are a big part of this special day.

Mothers are important in so many ways, too many to count. In some families, the mother is the leader. She is called the matriarch.

The importance of mothers can be seen in words like mother tongue. This is the language you speak at home. And your mother country is the country where you were born. Sometimes, we also call this the motherland.

Then there is Mother Nature, Mother Earth, and Earth Mother. We use these words to describe the beginning and the guiding force of the whole world – humans included.

There is even a saying “necessity is the mother of invention.” It means that new ways to do things are found or created when there is a strong need for them.

In any culture, the worst thing you could do would be to insult someone’s mother, especially calling her ugly. That could get you into a fight very quickly.

In the U.S. a children’s rhyme goes this way: “Step on a crack, break your mother’s back.” It means if you step on a crack, for example on the sidewalk, it will cause your mother's back to break. Nobody would want that. So, children turn this rhyme into a game and jump over cracks on the sidewalk.

For this Mother’s Day, we will learn another saying that uses the word mother: “Diligence is the mother of good luck.”

First, what does diligence mean? Diligence is careful and continued hard work. So, this saying means that hard work produces chances for success – not luck.

Let’s hear it used in this example:

Did you hear the great news! Sam’s book is going to be published this summer!

That is wonderful. He is SO lucky.

In his case, diligence is the mother of good luck. He spent two years non-stop writing that book.

Oh. I guess, luck had little to do with it.

So, if someone you know has had success after working diligently, you can use this saying. It’s like telling them that their hard work has paid off.

For example, if you got a great job using your wonderful English and a friend says to you, “Wow, you’re really lucky.” You can say, “Diligence is the mother of good luck.”

After all, your speaking English has nothing to do with good luck, but rather your hard work.

And that’s all the time we have for this Words and Their Stories.

Until next time … I’m Anna Matteo.

Anna Matteo wrote this report for Learning English. Hai Do was the editor.

______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

matriarch – n. a woman who controls a family, group, or government

rhyme – n. one of two or more words or phrases that end in the same sounds

crack – n. a thin line in the surface of something that is broken but not separated into pieces

diligence – n. careful and continued hard work

 

Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 9: Thú cưng cũng là gia đình!

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

Anna goes to the D.C. State Fair and wins first place in a pet contest even though she doesn’t have a pet. Or does she?

Anna tới dự hội chợ tiểu bang ở thủ đô D.C. và giành giải nhất trong cuộc thi thú cưng mặc dù cô không nuôi con thú cưng nào cả. Hay là cô ấy có nhỉ?

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: Hi Ashley!

Ashley: Hey, Anna! How was your weekend?

Anna: It was great! I went to the D.C. State Fair.

Ashley: I would have gone, but I was busy. How was it?

Anna: It was awesome! I won first place in a pet contest!

Ashley: But, you don’t have a pet, do you?

Anna: Yes and no. What do you mean by “pet”?

Prof. Bot: A pet is an animal that lives with you. People love their pets. "Ashley said, you don’t have a pet, do you? She used a tag question, a small question at the end of a sentence. Let's look for more of them!

Anna: Look, a pet! Who’s this cute little dog?

Ashley: Oh, right. You haven’t met my dog, have you? This is Dublin.

Anna: Hi, Dublin! Nice to meet you. He’s so cute!

Ashley: Thanks! So, tell me about the fair.

Anna: Oh, there were the usual things -- fair food, cute babies, music. But there must have been a dozen different contests! And some were pretty strange.

Anna: There was a contest to see who could spit a watermelon seed the farthest. You should have seen all the people who wanted to spit a watermelon seed! And, it was pretty fun to watch. But Ashley, the pet contests were the best. There was a pet parade. Lots of people walked with their dogs.

Ashley: That sounds so fun. But Anna, tell me, how did you win a pet contest without a pet?

Anna: Okay, the closest thing I have is my pet rock.

Anna: I know it’s silly, but I’ve had it since I was a little girl. So, for a joke, I brought it to the fair. But then I was invited to enter the “One-of-Kind Pet” contest. And I won! (holds up first place ribbon)

Ashley: Anna, only you could have won first place in a pet contest with a pet rock. I should have brought Dublin. He would’ve won a contest!

Anna: It’s not very easy to win one of these. (shows her the blue ribbon) Does he have a costume?

Anna: They had a costume contest. You should have seen this little girl. She and her dog wore matching princess costumes!

Ashley: Dublin doesn’t wear costumes.

Anna: Does he know any tricks?

Ashley: Come this way. Now, watch this. (Dublin chases a toy)

Anna: You caught it, Dublin! And you killed it! Good dog! Ashley, he could have won the Best Catch contest! Aw, good boy! Ashley, pets are fun, aren’t they?

Ashley: Yes. And they become part of your family. (she drinks from her Dublin mug)

Anna: Ashley, I think I want a dog. No. I know I want a dog!

Ashley: It’s a big responsibility. You may want to spend time with a dog first.

Anna: That is a great idea. But where can I find a dog?

Ashley: You know, Anna, I have some shopping to do. Do you want to watch Dublin for a couple of hours?

Anna: Yes! I would! I will take very good care of him!

Ashley: I know you will. Here’s his leash.

Anna: Thank you.

Ashley: (to Dublin) Okay, I'll miss you!

Anna: Aw. I don’t want you to be lonely. Here, Rocky can stay with you. (puts pet rock on wall)

Ashley: Anna, I really don’t need … Okay. Thanks, Anna.

Anna: Sure. Bye, Ashley. (to Dublin) Come on, Dublin! Bye, Rocky!

Ashley: Bye!

Prof. Bot: Anna’s rock is cute, isn’t it? Oh, there is another tag question! You found some more, didn’t you?

You haven’t met my dog, have you?

Go to the VOA Learning English website to learn more.

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)

contest - n. an event in which people try to win by doing something better than others

fair - n. a large public event at which there are various kinds of competitions, games, rides, and entertainment

leash - n. a long, thin piece of rope or chain that is used for holding a dog or other animal

matching - adj. having the same pattern, color, or design

owner - n. a person or group that owns something or a pet's human companion

parade - n. a public celebration of a special day or event that usually includes many people and groups moving down a street by marching or riding in cars or on special vehicles

princess - n. a female member of a royal family

responsibility - n. a duty or task that you are required or expected to do

seed - n. a small object produced by a plant from which a new plant can grow

spit - v. to force (something, such as food or liquid) from your mouth

watermelon - n. a large, round fruit that has hard, green skin, sweet, red, juicy flesh, and black seeds

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is Cooperate. When we are learning anything, we can cooperate, or work together, with others who help us learn. One of our website readers wrote to say she works on learning English every morning with her sister-in-law. They are cooperating to help each other practice speaking English.

Anna wants to get a pet dog. Ashley wants Anna to learn about the responsibility of being a pet owner. She says, "You may want to spend time with a dog first." Then, Ashley cooperates with Anna by letting her take care of Dublin for a short time. Ashley hopes that Anna will learn about taking care of a dog before she gets her own dog.

How about you? How do you cooperate? When you are learning English, do you act out conversations with a friend? Do you quiz a friend who needs to review for a test? Write to us in the Comments section or send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.​

Quiz - Lesson 9: Pets Are Family, Too!

Start the Quiz to find out

Start Quiz

Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 8: Bữa thịt nướng tuyệt nhất!

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

Anna goes to a barbecue battle in Washington, D.C. She learns that there are secret ingredients in the sauces. And people are VERY loyal to their favorite kind of barbecue.

Anna tới dự một "cuộc chiến thịt nướng" ở Washington, D.C. Cô ấy học được có nhiều nguyên liệu bí mật trong sốt ăn kèm. Và mọi người thì RẤT trung thành với loại sốt thịt nướng yêu thích của họ.

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: Thanks for meeting me.

Kelly: Sure.

Anna: I’d like to get your advice on my latest project.

Kelly: Of course. I heard you were sent to cover a big food festival that has all kinds of barbecue. So, how did it go?

Anna: Well, things started out great! But then, well, maybe you should watch it yourself.

Prof. Bot: Hi English learners! Your lesson today is about my favorite food -- barbecue! Your assignment is to find passive sentences. What are those, you might ask? In passive sentences the subject receives the action!

For example, “Anna was sent to cover a food festival.”

Passive sentences have a form of the BE verb + the past participle of the main verb. This lesson is LOADED with passive sentences. Hey! That’s a passive sentence, too!

Okay, now, it’s Barbecue Time!

Anna: Today, a Barbecue Battle is being held in Washington, D.C. This festival, which is known as one of the biggest food festivals in the United States, brings together barbecue lovers from all over the country! Barbecue is meat that is cooked over an open fire or on a grill.

Chicken, pork and beef are all common meats to grill on a barbecue! No matter which meat you like to barbecue, the sauce is very important. Sauces are taken very seriously by chefs. Most ingredients are kept secret!

So, can you tell us what is in your barbecue sauce?

Chef 1: No, I can’t tell you.

Anna: So, tell us, what is the secret ingredient in your barbecue sauce?

Chef 2: (says nothing.)

Anna: Sauces are made by the barbecue chefs themselves. Most sauces are made with a tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices.

Prof. Bot: How many passive sentences did you find? Here is one I found:
Today, a Barbecue Battle is being held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Now you try. Turn this sentence from passive to active.

Barbecue is loved by Prof. Bot.

Professor Bot loves Barbecue!

Good job! And yes, I do.

Anna: There are some areas of the U.S. that are known for their tasty barbecue. The states of Texas, North and South Carolina and the cities of Memphis and Kansas City are known as the Barbecue Belt. People who are loyal to barbecue are really loyal to their favorite barbecue. That is why this festival is called a battle! Let’s ask a couple of people which barbecue is best.

Person 1: Texas, of course!

Person 2: Carolina barbecue is the very best.

Person 3: Kansas City!

Person 4: Memphis style!

Person 3: Kansas City!

Person 5: Texas!

Person 3: Kansas!

Person 5: Texas!

Person 3: Kansas!

Person 5: Texas!

Person 3: I say Kansas.

Person 5: Texas!

Person 3: She keeps saying Texas, I say Kansas.

Anna: This is Anna Matteo reporting.

Anna: Kelly, people feel so strongly about barbecue. Unbelievable! So, what do you think of my project?

Kelly: This is what I think. There is no way that Texas has the best barbecue. I am from Kansas City and we have THE best barbecue in the whole country. My mother and father owned a barbecue restaurant, which was really famous! So, I know barbecue! Anna, I know barbecue! I know barbecue! I know barbecue!

Prof Bot: Oh my. Kelly knows a lot about barbecue! And you know more about passive sentences! Be sure you go to the website to learn even more! Ah! Now, if you excuse me .. I'm hungry

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)

barbecue - n. a flat metal frame that is used to cook food over hot coals or an open fire

barbecue - v. to cook (food) on a barbecue or to broil or roast (meat, fish, etc.) over hot coals or an open fire

battle - n. a fight between people or groups in which each side tries to win a contest (such as a game or an election)

brown sugar - n. a type of sugar that is brown because it contains a dark syrup (called molasses)

chef - n. a professional cook who usually is in charge of a kitchen in a restaurant

grill - n. a metal frame that is used to cook food over hot coals or an open fire

- v. to cook (food) on a metal frame over fire

loyal - adj. having or showing complete and constant support for someone or something

molasses - n. a thick, brown, sweet liquid that is made from raw sugar

sauce - n. a thick liquid that is eaten with or on food to add flavor to i

spice - n. a substance (such as pepper or nutmeg) that is used in cooking to add flavor to food and that comes from a dried plant and is usually a powder or seed

spicy - adj. of food. flavored with or containing strong spices and especially ones that cause a burning feeling in your mouth

sweet - adj. containing a lot of sugar

tasty - adj. having a good flavor

tomato - n. a round, soft, red fruit that is eaten raw or cooked and that is often used in salads, sandwiches, sauces

vinegar - n. a sour liquid that is used to flavor or preserve foods or to clean things

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is Ask Questions. One of the best ways to learn is to ask many questions.

In this lesson, Anna asks the barbecue chefs questions like, "Where does the best barbecue come from?" and "What is the secret ingredient in your sauce?" She gets many opinions on the best barbecue, but she never learns about the secret ingredient in the sauce.

How about you? How often do you ask questions as you study English? When you are learning English, do you ask teachers, friends or classmates to help you by sharing their knowledge? Write to us in the Comments section or send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.

Quiz - Let's Learn English Level 2 Lesson 8: The Best Barbecue

Start the Quiz to find out

Start Quiz

Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 7: Boa cho hướng dẫn viên của bạn nhé!

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

Anna and Penelope are on a tour boat. A nice young man tells them many Fun Facts about Washington, D.C. But where are his parents?

Anna và Penelope đang có một chuyến đi tour trên thuyền. Một cậu nhóc dễ thương kể cho họ nghe nhiều điều thú vị (Fun Facts) về Washington, D.C. Nhưng bố mẹ của cậu ấy ở đâu vậy nhỉ?

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: Penelope, the Lincoln Memorial is coming up on your left!

Boy: You’re going to love my Lincoln Memorial Fun Fact!

Anna: Oh, please tell us!

Boy: On a wall inside the memorial, the word “FUTURE” was carved wrong! They carved “EUTURE”!

Anna: Well, we all make mistakes.

Boy: Yeah, but this mistake was carved in stone!

Anna: You’re right. That is pretty bad. Here’s another dollar!

Penelope: More fun facts, please! (Crossing the river) I love riding over bridges! The water looks so pretty from here!

Anna: Penelope, this is amazing! A minute ago, we were riding along the river, and now we’re riding in the river! Awesome.

Penelope: Hey, we’re passing by the Pentagon on our right!

Anna: Penelope, you love riding over the water on a bridge. But I love riding under a bridge in a boat!

Penelope: Anna, look! An airplane is flying right over our heads!

Anna: Wow! This is the closest I’ve ever been to an airplane in flight. Well, I’ve been inside a flying airplane. But not outside of an airplane as it flies over my head!

Penelope: And now we’re driving out of the water. I still can’t believe this thing drives and sails!

Anna: I know. It’s amazing.

Boy: After we ride along these railroad tracks, you’ll see my favorite part of the tour! The U.S. Treasury where they make money!

Penelope: Look, the U.S. Capitol is coming up!

Boy: I have a great Fun Fact about the U.S. Capitol.

Penelope: What is it?

Boy: There are tunnels under the Capitol. They connect the Capitol and office buildings of lawmakers.

Anna: I bet they built them years ago for secret reasons!

Boy: No. The lawmakers did not want to walk around outside in bad weather.

Anna: Oh.

Penelope: We’re back at Union Station!

Boy: Do you want to know a creepy Fun Fact about Union Station? (he points to Union Station)

Penelope: The creepier the better!

Boy: Many years ago, inside Union Station, there was a funeral home!

Anna: A funeral home?! You mean, for dead people?!

Boy: Do you know another kind of funeral home?

Anna: No!

Boy: Well, I’ve gotta run!

Anna: Thanks for giving us the great tour!

Anna: Captain, that was awesome! And your son is a great tour guide!

Captain: What son?

Anna: Him.

Captain: I’ve never seen that boy in my life! See ya, ladies!

Professor Bot: I learned many new Fun Facts in this lesson. Did you learn about prepositions?

Here’s a list of all the prepositions used in this lesson. Wow! That’s a lot! I know, let’s not read them. Let’s sing them! Hit it, boys! Take it away singers!

since	at	through
aboard	behind	to
about	by	near
across	for	of
ahead	from	on
around	in	until
over	like	with

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)

carve - v. to make (something, such as a sculpture or design) by cutting off pieces of the material it is made of

creepy - adj. strange, scary or causing people to feel nervous and afraid

funeral home - n. a place where dead people are prepared for burial or cremation and where wakes and funerals are held

security gate - n. the area in a place (such as an airport or building) where people are checked to make sure they are not carrying weapons or other illegal materials​

stone - n. a hard substance that comes from the ground and is used for building or carving

tunnel - n. a passage that goes under the ground or through a hill

Prepositions (Các giới từ)

aboard on or into (a train, ship, etc.)

about used to indicate the object of a thought, feeling, or action

across from one side to the other side of (something)

around on all sides of (something or someone)

at used to indicate the place where someone or something is

behind in or to a place at the back of or to the rear of (someone or something)

by close to or next to (something or someone)

for used to indicate the thing that something is meant to be used with

from used to indicate the starting point of a physical movement or action

in (inside) used to indicate location or position within something

out (outside) used to indicate that a person or animal is moving from the inside of a building, room, etc., to the outside

like similar to (something or someone)

near close to (something or someone)

of belonging to, relating to, or connected with (someone or something)

on touching and being supported by the top surface of (something)

over from, to, or at a place that is higher than (someone or something)

through into one side and out the other side of (something)

to used to indicate the place, person, or thing that someone or something moves toward

until up to (a particular time) — used to indicate the time when a particular situation, activity, or period ends

with used to say that people or things are together in one place

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is ​Use Background Knowledge. That means you can make connections to things you already know to help you learn new things. For example, you can use words that are in your own language sometimes to understand English words that come from a different language.

In this lesson, the young man uses his background knowledge, the "Fun Facts" he remembers about famous places, to ​chat with Penelope and Anna. The three enjoy their tour as they learn more details.

How about you? How do you use background knowledge ​while you are studying English? Please send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.

Quiz - Lesson 7: Tip Your Tour Guide

Start the Quiz to find out

Start Quiz

Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 6: Liệu nó có nổi không?

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

Anna takes Penelope around the city on a tour vehicle. Is it a bus? Is it a boat? Yes! The Duck Bus/Boat. It goes on land. It goes on water.

Anna dẫn Penelope vòng quash thành phố trên một chiếc xe đi theo tour. Nó có phải là một chiếc xe buýt không? Hay nó là một cái thuyền? Đúng rồi! Đây là một chiếc xe buýt/thuyền con vịt. Nó đi trên cạn. Nó cũng đi trên nước nữa.

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Penelope: Anna, thanks for taking me on a tour of D.C. today.

Anna: Sure thing, Penelope. You are new to town. And a tour is the best way to see more of the city!

Penelope: So, which tour are we taking – the one that goes through the city on a bus? Or the one that goes along the river in a boat?

Anna: Both!

Penelope: What? Anna, this isn’t going to be one of those trips, is it?

Anna: No. Follow me.

Professor Bot: In this lesson, you are going to hear lots of prepositions! What’s a preposition, you ask? It’s a word that shows relationships between things. Anna says they are going on a tour through the city and along the river. Through and along are both prepositions. Watch for more!

Anna: Well, Penelope, there’s our ride!

Penelope: What is it?

Anna: It’s the famous DC Ducks -- the boat with wheels! We will ride on the road and then sail on the water!

Penelope: Who thinks of these things?

Anna: I don't know. But I’m glad they do! Let’s get aboard, Sailor!

Penelope: (looking at a brochure about the boat) Hey, did you know that this bus … um, boat was created during World War II to carry people and supplies?

Anna: Wow. You know, a tour is so much more interesting with Fun Facts, like that one.

Penelope: I agree. I love Fun Facts!

Boy: Did I hear you say you love Fun Facts?

Anna & Penelope: Yeah.

Boy: Well, I have tons of Fun Facts for this tour!

Anna & Penelope: Great!

Anna: Penelope, where are his parents?

Penelope: Maybe - maybe he’s the Captain’s son and he helps his dad on tours!

Anna: Oh yeah! It would be so awesome to ride around the city in a boat all day with your dad!

Penelope: This is amazing, Anna. There are so many beautiful buildings along this road!

Anna: Hey, the Washington Monument is on the left!

Professor Bot: I have a Fun Fact too! Did you know that the Washington Monument was damaged in an earthquake? Whoa. Did you feel that?!

I heard: "around the city in a boat," "along this road and "on the left." All of these are prepositions showing place. Let's watch for more places and prepositions!

Penelope: Look, Anna, we’re across from the White House!

Anna: Penelope, the only thing between us and the President is the street … and a park … and a security gate .... and police officers … with guns.

Boy: Excuse me, do you want to know a Fun Fact about the White House?

Anna & Penelope: Yes!

Boy: Inside the White House there is a swimming pool, a movie theater and 32 bathrooms!

Penelope: Thirty-two bathrooms! That’s a lot of bathrooms!

Boy: I’d be happy with two. I live in a house with my mom, four sisters, two aunts and only one bathroom!

Penelope: Oh my! You know, Anna, we should give him a tip!

Anna: Of course! It is polite to tip your tour guide! Luckily, I have lots of dollar bills!

Penelope: That was a great Fun Fact! Here you go!

Boy: Thank you! I can tell you Fun Facts all day!

Professor Bot: Did you hear any more prepositions of place? I heard "between us and the president" “inside the White House" and "in a house."

And did you hear that the Duck Boat can go on the river? I don't believe it. Join us next time to find out which preposition we will use: The boat went ON the river or The boat went INTO the river?

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)

aboard - prep. on or into (a train, ship, etc.)

across - prep. on the other side of (something)

along - prep. in a line matching the length or direction of (something)

around - prep.over or in different parts of (a place)

between - prep. in the space that separates (two things or people)

captain - n. a person who is in charge of a ship or an airplane

carry - v. to move (something) while holding and supporting it

inside - prep. an inner part of something (such as a building or machine)

pool - n. (swimming pool) a large structure that is filled with water and that is used for swimming

relationship - n. the way in which two or more people or things are connected

security gate - n. a place where people are checked to make sure they are not carrying weapons or other illegal materials

through - prep. used to describe movement within a place or an area of land, air, etc.

tip - n. an extra amount of money that you give to someone (such as a waitress or waiter) who performs a service for you

- v. to give an extra amount of money to someone who performs a service for you

tour - n. an activity in which you go through a place (such as a building or city) in order to see and learn about the different parts of it

wheel - n. one of the round parts underneath a car, wagon, etc., that rolls and allows something to move

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is Access Information Sources. When we are learning about something, we often have several choices for finding out the information we need. Sometimes we can read a book, or look on the internet. At other times, we can ask a teacher, friend or classmate for information. No matter what the source is, you can then add the information to your own knowledge.

In this lesson, Penelope looks at a brochure to learn more about the tour boat. Then a young man tells her some "Fun Facts" so she can learn more about Washington, D.C.

How about you? How do you access information sources? When you are learning English, do you look for information in books, dictionaries, or online? Are you able to ask teachers, friends or classmates to help you by sharing their knowledge of English? Write to us in the Comments section or send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.

Quiz - Let's Learn English Level 2 Lesson 6

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VOA60 20210507

 

VOA60 20210506

 

Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 5: Kỳ nghỉ tuyệt vời nhất trên đời!

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

Anna goes to a travel agent to find the Best Vacation Ever! But does she? Travel agent Dan wants to sell her the Most Expensive Vacation Ever. But does he?

Anna tới một đại lý du lịch để tìm kiếm Kỳ nghỉ Tuyệt vời nhất! Nhưng cô ấy có kiếm được không? Nhân viên đại lý Dan muốn bán cho cô Kỳ nghỉ Đắt đỏ nhất. Nhưng liệu anh ta có làm vậy không?

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: “Do you need a vacation?” Wow. That was the best vacation I have ever had … in my head. A beach is much better than here. I need a vacation!

Professor Bot: I hear you, Anna. I need a vacation too but not at the beach. Sand is not good for robots! When we compare things, we use special forms of adjectives. "Better" is a comparative adjective. That is used to compare two things. "Best" is a superlative adjective. It shows that one thing has more of ...something than ALL of the others. Try to find more of these adjectives. Look for ER or EST at the end.

Dan: NO! You can’t get your money back. I don’t care that it was your worst vacation ever!

Dan: Hello! Have a seat! Welcome to the World’s Best Vacation Travel Agency!

Anna: Thank you and congratulations!

Dan: For what?

Anna: For being the world’s best travel agency.

Dan: Right … thanks.

Dan: Trudy, hold my calls. I am going to sell our most expensive vacation.

Trudy: Sure thing, Boss.

Dan: The Mountain Getaway is good for you. It’s a little pricey. But think of it -- you, on top of a mountain for seven days!

Anna: I’m afraid of high places.

Dan: Of course you are. That’s why our Deep Sea Adventure is better for you! It is pricier than the Mountain Getaway. Just you and the animals of the sea!

Anna: Shark! Shark!

Dan: No, there are no sharks in your dream vacation! You need the Safari Camp Out! It is our priciest vacation. But I think it’s the best one for you. During the day, you’ll see elephants, giraffes and lions. At night, you’ll sleep out under the stars.

Anna: Look, I think this was a bad idea.

Dan: Sure, you can leave. But then you won’t see the latest vacation technology.

Professor Bot: Did you find all of those adjectives? Dan started with good - The mountain getaway; then he moved to better - The Deep Sea Adventure. And finally, he said the Safari Campout was the best vacation for Anna!

Anna: Exactly what is the “latest vacation technology” … exactly?

Dan: I’m happy you asked. Meet the Travel Max 2000!

Anna: Wow.

Dan: So, tell me, how do you like to travel?

Anna: Well, I like travel that is cozy and romantic but still exciting.

Dan: Great. Tell me more.

Anna: I like traveling in a plane but not in a helicopter! Planes are a little scary but helicopters are scarier! My favorite way of traveling is by train. Ships can be the scariest! Have you seen the movie “Titanic”? Oh, and no horses. But I will ride a camel. And no bike tours. Biking is THE slowest AND least romantic way to travel. Excuse me, but I think the Travel Max 2000 is on fire.

Dan: Yes, we’re both on fire! We really want to sell you the most ex-, I mean, best vacation ever!

Anna: No, I mean it’s really on fire!

Dan: You killed it. You killed the Travel Max 2000!

Anna: I am so sorry! Can I help you fix it?

Dan: No, no!

Anna: Don’t cry. I know what you need -- a vacation!

Anna: The Safari Campout looks fun. It is the priciest. But I think you deserve it.

Dan: No, no!

Professor Bot: Oh Anna. This is the smokiest lesson yet! There were a lot of comparatives and superlatives but … I can’t breathe. Just go to the website to learn the best ways to use them!

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)​

agency - n. a business that provides a particular service
camel - n. a large animal of Africa and Asia that has a long neck and one or two large humps on its back and that is often used for desert travel
campout - n. an occasion when people go camping together
Congratulations -n. a message telling someone that you are happy because of his or her success or good luck
cozy/cozier - adj. small, comfortable, and warm
deserve - v. used to say that someone or something should or should not have or be given something
getaway - n. a short vacation
latest - adj. most recent
least - adj. smallest in amount or degree
on fire - expression. in the process of burning / feeling very strong enthusiasm, love, etc.
pricey - adj. costing a lot of money​
sink - v. to go down below the surface of water
smoke - n. the cloud of black, gray, or white gases and dust that is produced by burning something​
technology - n. the use of science in industry, engineering, etc., to invent useful things or to solve problems​
vacation - n. a period of time that a person spends away from home, school, or business usually in order to relax or travel​
worst- adj. least appropriate, useful, or helpful

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is ​Make Associations. We make associations between words and ideas each time we use language. When learning a second language, it is best to connect new words or sentence patterns directly with ideas or experiences, not with words in your first language. The associations may help you remember new words better.

In this lesson, Anna makes associations between mountains and high places. She is afraid of high places, so she does no want to go to the mountains. She is also afraid of wild animals, which she associated with the Safari Campout. So she decides not to take those vacations.

How about you? How do you make associations while you are speaking English? Write to us in the Comments section or send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.

Quiz - Let's Learn English Level 2 Lesson 5

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Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 4: Cùng bay nhảy với đoàn xiếc nào!

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

Anna and Pete start their new show. They do not agree about the circus. Are the performers artists or athletes? Do they perform or compete? Find out in the first "He Said - She Said" show.

Anna và Pete bắt đầu một chương trình mới. Họ có bất đồng về môn xiếc. Liệu những diễn viên xiếc là nghệ sĩ hay là vận động viên? Liệu họ đang biểu diễn hay đang thi đấu với nhau? Cùng tìm câu trả lời trong chương trình "He Said - She Said" nhé!

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: Hello, I’m Anna …

Pete: … and I’m Pete. Welcome to “He Said,

Anna: … She Said”!

Pete: Because there are always two sides …

Anna: to every story!

Anna: Today’s show is about Circus Arts!

Pete: Circus? That’s not an art form.

Anna: Yes, it is.

Pete: No, it isn't.

Anna: Yes, it is.

Pete: No, it isn't.

Anna: Yes, it is!

Pete: No, it isn't.

Anna: Yes, it is!

Pete: No, it isn't.

Anna: Yes, it is!

Professor Bot: Oh dear. Anna and Pete do not agree about Circus Arts. But that's okay. Today’s lesson is about agreeing and disagreeing. Let’s listen to how Anna and Pete disagree or agree. Let’s hope these two can agree on something.

Anna: Today, let’s run away with the circus!

Recently, I went to a circus festival. There was a huge circus tent. And many different circus performers. It was a celebration of circus arts!

Pete: That looks fun, Anna. But I don’t think circus performers are artists. I think they’re athletes with interesting skills … and costumes.

Anna: Hmm, that is a very interesting point of view, Pete. And I completely disagree.

Pete: Anna, Michelangelo was an artist. Rembrandt was an artist. People who swing from ropes are not artists. I know it’s not easy to swing from a bar and catch someone by the hands. You have to be very athletic to do that.

Anna: That’s a good point, Pete. They are athletic. But they are called trapeze artists. Trapeze … ARTISTS.

Pete: I hear what you’re saying, Anna. I do. But where is the art? Look at these guys. They’re jugglers.

Anna: Yes, they are skilled in the art of juggling.

Pete: They have a special skill. But are they artists?

Anna: Yes!

Pete: No!

Pete: They're just throwing things back and forth.

Anna: Kind of like you and me, Pete. We’re going back and forth on this issue.

Pete: I don’t think we’ll ever agree on this one.

Anna: No, but we can agree that these young people are amazing.

Pete: Okay, yeah. We can agree on that. But, still, they are very athletic – flipping and throwing each other around.

Anna: Yes, I agree with you on that point.

Professor. Bot: They did it! They agreed!! Anna says she agrees that the performers are athletic. "That’s a good point, Pete. They are athletic. I agree with you on that point. " Now look for other ways they agree.

Pete: Anna? Anna!!

Anna: Sorry! Sorry! But he’s an artist too. He is telling a story with his sticks and his costume.

Pete: What story? What costume?

Anna: I see your point, Pete. I really do. But circus performers do more than physical tricks. Look! Look at these amazing performers!

Pete: I will admit -- I like their costumes.

Anna: You know, Pete. Let’s let the performers speak for themselves.

Anna: Kate and Piper tell stories while hanging upside down on a ring!

Pete: Was it hard to interview them upside down?

Anna: I interviewed them right side up, Pete. Kate says circus performing may be athletic but it’s not competitive. With most sports, you compete.

Kate: It’s an art form because like, other sports are competing. This is simply performing and having fun.

Pete: Okay, Kate made a really good point. In athletics, there is a lot of competition. But still …

Anna: Here’s Piper, Pete. Please pay attention, Pete.

Pete: But, I -

Anna: Shh.

Piper: Well, when you’re up in the air doing circus you have to perform. And so, we learn to embody characters, and to move fluidly and gracefully … in artistic ways.

Anna: And that …is why they are artists!

Pete: You’re right, Anna. Oh, you’re right. It’s just so beautiful.

Anna: I know. I know, Pete.

Professor Bot: Good job you two! I'm so glad that Anna and Pete finally agree! Pete said, " You’re right, Anna." I agree, too. Circus arts are beautiful. Remember the website!

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)​

admit - v. to say usually in an unwilling way that you accept or do not deny the truth or existence of (something)

athlete - n. a person who is trained in or good at sports, games, or exercises that require physical skill and strength

athletic - adj. strong and muscular

back and forth - adv. toward the back and then toward the front or backward and forward

bar - n. a straight piece of metal or wood that is used as a tool

circus - n. a traveling show that is often performed in a tent and that typically includes trained animals, clowns, and acrobats

competitive - adj. of or relating to a situation in which people or groups are trying to win a contest or be more successful than others

embody - v. to be a symbol or example of (something)

form - n. a type or kind of something

graceful - adj. moving in a smooth and attractive way

hang - v. to hold one's body in the air

Michelangelo - n. Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni was an Italian Renaissance painter, sculptor, architect, poet, and engineer. Along with Leonardo da Vinci, he is often called a "Renaissance man" which means that he had great talent in many areas.

Rembrandt - n. Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn was a famous Dutch painter and artist. He is generally considered one of the greatest painters and printmakers in European art history, and the most important in Dutch history.

right side up - adv. with the top of something, or the head of a person, facing upward

ring - n. something that is shaped like a circle

rope - n. a strong, thick string that is made by twisting many thin strings or fibers together

run away with - phrasal verb. to secretly leave a place with a person or a group

side - n. one of two or more opinions, positions, etc., that disagree with each other

trapeze - n. a short bar that is hung high above the ground by two ropes and that is held by circus performers who perform athletic tricks on it

twirl - v. to turn or spin around and around

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is Apply a rule. When you use English, you often apply rules you have learned. If you are not sure about how to say something in English, you can look for a rule that will help you.

In this lesson, Anna and Pete are talking about circus performers. Are they artists or athletes? Anna thinks of this rule: 'athletes compete in sports.' The performer Kate says circus performing may be athletic but it’s not competitive. Anna helps Pete to understand that circus performers are artists because, as Piper says, they move "in artistic ways."

How about you? How do you apply rules while you are speaking English? Can you think of an example of a rule that you applied recently? Write to us in the Comments section or send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.

Quiz - Let's Learn English Level 2 Lesson 4

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Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 3: Anh ấy nói - Cô ấy nói

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

When Pete and Anna meet with Director Kelly, they arrive late. Both tell very different stories about their morning. A show begins.

Khi Pete và Anna đi gặp Giám đốc Kelly, họ đến muộn. Cả hai đều kể hai câu chuyện rất khác nhau về buổi sáng của họ. Vậy kết cục của câu chuyện sẽ ra sao?

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: Today, Pete and I are meeting with a consultant who will help us with our new show. Yesterday, Pete had promised to meet me here at 8:00 am. but he did not come on time.

Prof Bot: Uh-oh. It’s bad to be late for a business meeting. But while we wait for Pete, let’s talk about a new verb tense -- past perfect! You know the past tense, right? Like, "Pete promised to meet me here at 8:00 a.m." Past perfect is a little different. When we talk about two things in the past, we can use the past perfect for the first event. Put "had" before the past participle. "Pete had promised he would meet Anna." Here's your assignment: find sentences with the past perfect tense. Remember, look for "had!"

Kelly: You two are late -- exactly 43 minutes late! What happened?

Anna: He had to get his "special" coffee -- SPECIAL coffee!

Pete: She had to feed her birds -- HER birds!

Kelly: Okay, I can see already that you need my help. You can’t both talk at the same time. You have to take turns. Alright, Anna, you go first.

Anna: Sure. Kelly, see, Pete and I live in the same building. So, we decided to meet at 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. to come to work together. I had waited 15 minutes when Pete arrived!

Anna: After Pete had wasted time waiting for coffee, we were late. I left you a message.*

Kelly: Hum. I didn’t get that message.

Anna: Oh. Sorry.

Kelly: Pete?

Prof. Bot: Anna left a message. That’s the right thing to do. Did you find some examples of the past perfect sentences? I did. Anna said,

Anna: "After Pete had wasted time waiting for coffee, we were late.

Look at that coffee! It looks more like dessert! Okay, keep watching for past perfect!

Pete: Yeah, that’s not why we’re late. This is why we’re late: I had arrived on time at 8:00 a.m. but didn’t see Anna. She was standing behind a tree. I think she was hugging it. I always walk to work. But she said that would take too long and that a scooter would be much faster. It was awful. I hated it. And it added too much time to our commute!

Then Anna stopped by a pond to feed the birds. She had named them after characters from books and yelled the names out loud … Romeo! Juliet! Sherlock!

By the time she had fed all the birds, we were late.

Kelly: This is what I think. You two see the same event very differently. Does this happen often with you two?

Pete: Yes.

Anna: No.

Pete: No.

Anna: Yes.

Kelly: Okay. This is good. This is good! It’s good to see things differently. I have an idea: we will call the show "He Said, She Said." For every story, you tell a different point of view.

Anna: That is a great idea, Kelly! Pete, we are different. That’s why I thought of you for this job!

Kelly: I think you two understand perfectly.

Anna: Let’s get to work!

Kelly: She named the birds? Really?

Pete: Yeah…

* Business people in the U.S. think you should come to a meeting at the exact time. If you are late to a business appointment, you should call and explain why.

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)​

commute - v. to travel regularly to and from a place and especially between where you live and where you work

consultant - n. a person who gives professional advice or services to companies for a fee

event- n. something (especially something important or notable) that happens

exactly - adv. used to stress that something is accurate, complete, or correct

hug - v. to put your arms around someone especially as a way of showing love or friendship​

point of view - n. a way of looking at or thinking about something

pond - n. an area of water that is surrounded by land and that is smaller than a lake

promise - v. a statement telling someone that you will definitely do something or that something will definitely happen in the future

scooter - n. a child's vehicle that is made of a narrow board with two small wheels attached

waste - v. to use (something valuable) in a way that is not necessary or effective

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is Monitor. As you use English, you can check your understanding. Do you understand? If not, what is the problem? You can also check how you write or speak. Are you making sense? If not, what is the problem?

In this lesson, Anna monitored the time of her commute to work. She knew that she and Pete were late. She called Kelly to tell her. Later, Anna and Pete told Kelly the problem. Kelly monitored the different things that they said and had a great idea. They can have different ideas on their new show: "HeSaid - She Said!"

How about you? How do you monitor while you are speaking English? Write to us in the Comments section or send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.

Quiz - Let's Learn English Level 2 Lesson 3

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Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 2: Cuộc phỏng vấn

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

Ms. Weaver asks Anna to team up with a person who is different from her. Who will she find?

Bà Weaver nói Anna hãy chọn một người khác tính cô ấy để cùng làm việc. Cô ấy sẽ tìm ai đây?

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: Ms. Weaver is giving new assignments out. I am ready to take on anything she gives me. Well, except reporting traffic from a helicopter. Wish me luck.

Professor Bot: I wonder what Anna’s new assignment will be? Professor Bot here! While you are watching, look for phrasal, or two-word verbs. Some stay together, like “go back” and some can come apart, like “give [assignments] out.” Good luck, Anna!

Ms. Weaver: So, as I said at the meeting last week, I have new assignments for everyone at The Studio. Anna, you're good at asking questions. So, I want you to go back to hosting and reporting.

Anna: That sounds great.

Ms. Weaver: You're also a team player. So, I want you team up with someone ...

Anna: That sounds even better!

Ms. Weaver: ... someone who is very "different" from you.

Anna: That sounds ... what do you mean "different"?

Ms. Weaver: Well, you are very cheerful, you're a people person. I want you to team up with someone who ... isn't.

Anna: Ms. Weaver, I will find that person.

Mimi: Excuse me. Are you using this chair?

Pete: Yes.

Anna: Pete, hi! Thanks for meeting me.

Pete: Sure. But I don’t have lots of time, Anna. I’m busy looking for work.

Anna: Pete, you can tear these want ads up and throw them away! I have good news!

Pete: Anna, I was working on that crossword puzzle.

Anna: Oh. Sorry. Sorry. Pete, forget about the crossword puzzle. I have a job offer for you!

Pete: I'm listening.

Anna: My boss wants me to team up with someone to host a talk show. But the person must be different from me. So, I thought of you.

Pete: Different from you? What do you mean?

Anna: I'm sorry, Pete, I don't have time right now. Here's my boss's address. Your interview is tomorrow morning at 10 am.

Pete: But what do you mean “different”?

Anna: Just be yourself, Pete. Just be yourself.

Professor Bot: Did you find any two-word verbs? Here’s one example. Pete can throw the wants ads away! Throw away is a two-word verb.

Ms. Weaver: Thanks for coming in, Pete.

Pete: Thanks for the opportunity, Ms. Weaver.

Ms. Weaver: I need to find out if you have the skills for this job. And I want you to be completely honest.

Pete: Okay.

Ms. Weaver: First, let's talk about your personal skills. Pete, are you a people person?

Pete: Well, okay, sometimes I think people talk too much.

Ms. Weaver: Pete, what work of yours are you most proud of?

Pete: Last year, I locked myself in a cabin and wrote a book. I didn't speak to anybody the entire time! It was the best two months of my life.

Ms. Weaver: Okay. I think I’ve heard enough.

Anna: Hey! Hey, Pete, how was the interview with Ms. Weaver?

Pete: Well, she said I was grumpy and not good with people.

Anna: And … ?

Pete: And, I got the job!

Anna: I knew it! Congratulations! Let's go celebrate.

Pete: Okay!

Professor Bot: Did you find more two-word verbs? Here is the list.

give out	find out
take on	tear up
go back	throw away
team up	come in

Động từ gồm hai phần (Two-part verbs)

come in - phrasal verb. to enter a place

find out - phrasal verb. to learn (something) by making an effort

give out - phrasal verb. to give (something) to many people or to hand out (something)

go back to - phrasal verb. to return to a person, place, subject, or activity

take on - phrasal verb. to begin to deal with (something, such as a job or responsibility)

team up- phrasal verb. to join with someone to work together

tear up - phrasal verb. to completely destroy (something) by tearing it into pieces

throw away - phrasal verb. to put (something that is no longer useful or wanted) in a trash can, garbage can, rubbish bin

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)​

cabin - n. a small, simple house made of wood

cheery - adj. having or causing happy feelings

crossword puzzle - n. a puzzle in which words that are the answers to clues are written into a pattern of numbered squares that go across and down

grumpy - adj. easily annoyed or angered, having a bad temper or complaining often

helicopter - n. an aircraft that can stay in the air without moving forward and that has metal blades that turn around on its top

host - v. to talk to guests on a television or radio show

offer -n. the act of giving someone the opportunity to accept something

lock - v. to fasten (something) with a lock

people person - n. a person who enjoys or is particularly good at interacting with others

personal skills - n. (interpersonal skills) the skills used by a person to interact with others properly

team player - n. someone who cares more about helping a group or team to succeed than about his or her individual success​

want ad - n. a notice in a newspaper, magazine, or website that lets people know about something that you want to buy or sell or a job that is available

wish me luck - expression. asks someone to say that they hope you will have success

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

Setting a goal is important when beginning to study. Learners who set goals put a powerful idea into their own minds: "I will do this by this time." For example, "I will improve my English speaking skills so I can talk with a friend for five minutes in English by next September."

In this lesson, Anna sets a goal: she wants to find someone who is different from herself. Ms. Weaver asked Anna to team up with someone for her new show. Anna asks different people first. Then, she asks Pete, and he says he will talk to Ms. Weaver. She met her goal of finding the right person for the job.

How about you? What is your goal for learning English? How will you use Let's Lean English Level 2 to help meet your goal? Think of what you want to do, and when you will be able to do it. Write to us in the Comments section or send us an email.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

See how well you understand this lesson by taking a listening quiz. Play each short video, then choose the best answer.

Quiz - Let's Learn English Level 2 Lesson 2

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Tiếng Anh cơ bản 2 tập 1: Cắt ngân sách

 

Tóm lược (Summary)​

We meet Anna's co-workers at The Studio: Anna, Jonathan, Amelia, Kaveh, and Penelope. Rumors of budget cuts travel through the office. But who is going to get fired?

Chúng ta sẽ gặp Anna và đồng nghiệp của cô làm việc tại The Studio hôm nay. Họ là: Anna, Jonathan, Amelia, Kaveh và Penelope. Có tin đồn về việc cắt giảm ngân sách đang lan truyền khắp nơi. Nhưng ai sẽ là người bị cho sa thải đây?

Hội thoại (Conversation)

Anna: Hum. Oh! “Important meeting. Everyone must come.” Well, back to work! And my boss has called a meeting. I wonder what it's about. Maybe we're all getting raises! Ooo, there's Jonathan! Maybe he knows.

Professor Bot: Hi! I'm Professor Bot! This video is all about work. People talk about jobs and things that happen at work. Your assignment is to find as many work words as you can. Don't worry, I'll help.

Anna: So, Jonathan, what do you think today's meeting is about? The email sounded important.

Jonathan: Well, I have heard people in the building talking about budget cuts.

Anna: Oh! Budget cuts? Wait, who has been talking about budget cuts?

Jonathan: Mark in Accounting.

Anna: Mark in Accounting? That's one person. That's not “people.”

Jonathan: I know, but Mark knows everything that goes on at The Studio.

Anna: That is true. But wait, look at us. We shouldn't gossip. That's how rumors start. We'll just go to the meeting and see what happens.

Jonathan: You're right. No more talk about budget cuts.

Amelia: Budget cuts? Oh no!

Amelia: I just heard Anna and Jonathan talking about budget cuts.

Kaveh: That must be what the meeting is about. When there are budget cuts, people lose their jobs.

Amelia: Not you. You're a good reporter.

Kaveh: And it's not you. You've done a great job as a videographer.

Amelia: I can't go back to being a detective. Criminals scare me!

Kaveh: And I can't go back to being a teacher! High school kids scare me!

Professor Bot: Did you hear any work words? They talked about a lot of jobs. You can make the name of a job by adding an ending to a verb! Kaveh reports, so, he's a reporter. Amelia used to detect, so she was a detective. If you teach, you're a teacher. And a videographer….uh, I think you understand. Back to the story.

Kaveh: Penelope, have you heard the news? Today's meeting is about budget cuts.

Penelope: That's awful! What should I do?

Kaveh: Update your résumé. I’ve already updated mine. I’ll see you at the meeting.

Ms. Weaver: Hello everyone! Quiet, please. Quiet, please!

Ms. Weaver: This meeting won’t take long. Then you can all leave.

Ms. Weaver: What is wrong with everyone? You look like I'm going to fire you. Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! Seriously, what is wrong with everyone?

Anna: Excuse me, Ms. Weaver?

Ms. Weaver: Yes, Anna.

Anna: Well, everyone has been worrying about, you know … We’ve been worrying that you are going to fire us!

Ms. Weaver: I’m not going to fire any of you! No! The reason for this meeting is to tell you what a good job you’ve been doing and give out new assignments. Budget cuts have been happening. But only one person has lost their job -- Mark in Accounting? Now, let’s talk about those new assignments.

Professor Bot: Ms. Weaver's team is doing a good job! How did you do? Did you find all of the work words? Here's a list you can check.

boss meeting raises email budget cuts

Accounting gossip rumors lose reporter résumé

videographer detective teacher update fire assignment

Từ ngữ mới (New Words)

accounting - n. the skill, system, or job of keeping the financial records of a business or person

assignment - n. a job or duty that is given to someone

boss - n. the person whose job is to tell other workers what to do

budget - n. an amount of money available for spending that is based on a plan for how it will be spent

calm - adj. not angry, upset, excited, etc.

criminal - n. a person who has committed a crime or who has been proved to be guilty of a crime by a court

detective - n. a police officer whose job is to find information about crimes that have occurred and to catch criminals

email - n. a system for sending messages from one computer to another computer

fire - v. to dismiss (someone) from a job

go on - phrasal verb. happen

gossip - v. to talk about the personal lives of other people
lose - v. to fail to keep or hold

raise - n. an increase in the amount of your pay

résumé ​ - n. a short document describing your education, work history, etc., that you give an employer when you are applying for a job​

rumor - n. information or a story that is passed from person to person but has not been proven to be true

scare - v. to cause (someone) to become afraid

update - v. to change (something) by including the most recent information

used to - v. used to say that something existed or repeatedly happened in the past but does not exist or happen now

videographer - n. a person who records images or events using a video camera

Sách lược học tập (Learning Strategy)​

The learning strategy for this lesson is Make Inferences. That means making a guess based on what you know.

In the video, you hear Amelia tell Kaveh: "I just heard Anna and Jonathan talking about budget cuts. Kaveh makes an inference when he says, "That must be what the meeting is about. When there are budget cuts, people lose their jobs."

As you learn English, you can use this strategy to help when you do not understand every word you hear or read. Making an inference means you guess, using what you do understand, about new words or expressions in English.

Bài kiểm tra Nghe (Listening Quiz)

Quiz - Let's Learn English Level 2 Lesson 1

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