American English Audio Course

Conversation Starters

Unit 1: Introductions 1 Informal

A: Excuse me, do you mind if I sit down?

B: No. Let me move my bag.

A: Thanks. By the way, do you live in the dorm? I think I've seen you there.

B: Yes, I just moved in last week.

A: I live in the dorm, too.

B: Oh, really? Do you like it?

A: Yeah, it's okay. It takes me about 5 minutes to get to my first class in the morning.

B: I'm not so lucky. My first class is on the other side of the university. But I've got a bicycle, so it doesn't take too long.

A: I've got a bike, too. But I haven't needed it this semester.

B: Well, this is my stop coming up. By the way, my name's Bob.

A: Hi, Bob. I'm Sylvia.

B: Nice meeting you, Sylvia. I'll probably see you around.

A: Okay. Bye, Bob.

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Unit 2: Introductions 2 - Name Pronunciation

A: Hi there; I'm Zack. I saw you in the 8:00 class.

B: Oh, you mean Math 204?

A: Yeah, you probably didn't see me. I was late, so I was sitting by the door.

B: Well, I'm Sylvia. I'm sorry; did you say your name was "Jack"?

A: Actually, it's Zack with a "Z."

B: Sorry, Zack. I didn't get a lot of sleep last night.

A: Don't worry about it. People are always calling me Jack.

B: Zack, why are you taking that 8:00 math class?

A: That's the only time I can take 204. If I could take it later, I would.

B: Yeah, I understand. My schedule's the same way.

A: But next semester, I think I'll be able to take Math 205 in the afternoon.

B: I'd like to do that. I'm just not a morning person; especially when it comes to math!

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Unit 3: Introductions 3 - Formal

A: Dr. Evans?

B: Yes?

A: Let me introduce myself. I'm Mark Davis from Lakeside Hotel.

B: How do you do, Mr. Davis? It's very kind of you to meet me.

A: Oh, it's my pleasure. How was your flight?

B: It was okay, but it was really long. I'm a bit tired.

A: I'd imagine so. That's a 19-hour flight from Sydney to Chicago.

B: I hope you don't mind if I just check in and go to sleep.

A: No, not at all. Let's pick up your bags and get you over to the hotel.

B: That sounds great.

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Unit 4: Friends in Common

A: Hey, Tyler! Long time, no see.

B: Sylvia! I haven't seen you here at the gym for ages.

A: Yeah, I've just been too busy to work out.

B: How's school going?

A: Everything's okay except for an 8:00 math class I have.

B: That is early! Say, it isn't Math 204, is it?

A: Yes, it is. Why?

B: Oh, a friend of mine is in that class.

A: Really? What's his name?

B: Zack Peterson. Do you know him?

A: I think so. What color is his hair?

B: He's a carrot-top.

A: Yeah, that's him. He likes the morning math class as much as I do.

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Unit 5: Country of Origin

A: Jean, could you help me?

B: Sure, Marie. What do you need?

A: Oh, it's this registration form I have to fill out for school; there's a line that I don't know what to do with.

B: Which one?

A: Where it says "Country of Origin." I was born in France, but when I was a baby we moved to California. That's where I lived until I went to university.

B: Your mother's an American citizen, right?

A: Yes, she is. She was born and raised in Texas.

B: And you have a U.S. Passport?

A: Yes, I do.

B: Well, then, don't worry about that part. It's only for people who aren't American citizens.

A: Thanks, that's everything; I'm finished! All I need now is a stamp and an envelope.

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Unit 6: Where Do You Come From?

A: Hi Steve. So that was your car I saw. I thought you always ate at the dorm.

B: Hi Juanita. Most of the time I do. But on Fridays and weekends, I like to go out.

A: Listen, you want to help me finish my fries? I shouldn't have ordered the large.

B: Thanks, they look good. Uh, by the way, Juanita, can I ask where you're from?

A: I'm from Isabela, a town in Puerto Rico. Why?

B: Well, you speak English fluently, and your Spanish is perfect.

A: I've used both languages ever since I can remember. My parents made sure I attended schools where they spoke English.

B: I'd love to be bilingual. I've studied Chinese for five years, but I know I'll never speak like a native.

A: Let me ask you something, Sebastian. Do you ever dream in Chinese?

B: Um, yes, I do sometimes. Is that a good sign?

A: It shows that you're making progress. I bet you know more Chinese than you think you do.

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Unit 7: Your Family

A: Hi, Viola. Anybody sitting here?

B: Oh, hi, Tyler. No, have a seat. Looks like the whole dorm came to have lunch today, doesn't it?

A: Yeah, it does; it's crowded. They must have bused some of them in! Hey, in class today I heard you say that you have a big family.

B: That's right. I've got six brothers and five sisters.

A: Wow! That is pretty big! Are you the oldest?

B: No. Actually, I'm the second oldest.

A: That's got to be a lot of work. What do your parents do?

B: Well, my father drives a cab. He works out at the airport at night.

A: What about your mother; what does she do?

B: My mother runs a small family store.

A: What kind of store is it?

B: Oh, we mostly sell food - bread, eggs, milk, rice, that sort of thing.

A: I guess a food store like that would come in handy if you had a large family.

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Unit 8: What Languages Do You Speak?

A: Sylvia, what languages do you speak?

B: As you know, Korean is my first language. I also speak English and some Chinese. How about you; what languages do you speak?

A: English, German, and French. While I was studying in Europe, I used French and German all the time. Now my French is rusty, but I do keep my German up.

B: How do you practice your German?

A: Oh, the man who lives next door--I call him Heinz--is from Berlin. He and I are always talking about Germany.

B: Well, all you need now is a neighbor from Paris!

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Unit 9: Favorite Things

A: Dan--what do you like to do in your spare time?

B: I like to play sports.

A: Which sport do you play the most -- volleyball, basketball, football, or baseball?

B: The last one. When I was in high school, I was a pitcher.

A: You're more active than I am. I like reading, photography, and computers.

B: I don't know much about computers. All I have is a typewriter.

A: Really, but you can't get on the Internet with that!

B: That's right. I use the library's computers when I read my email.

A: Well, I know what you need for your birthday!

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Unit 10: What Do You Do?

A: That box looks heavy, Serena. Can I help you carry it up to your apartment?

B: Thanks. This chair was on sale, but I wasn't thinking about the stairs. I wish we had an elevator in this building!

A: I've got this side. Hey, Serena, I was wondering; what do you do during the day?

B: Well, on weekdays I usually get up at ten. I get on the Internet or read the paper for two hours. Then I eat lunch around noon. If I have time, I'll go catch a matinee at the theater over at the mall.

A: When do you go to work?

B: I catch a bus at three-thirty, and I get to the office about forty-five minutes later. Wait; let me unlock the door.

A: And what time do you come back?

B: Here in the corner is fine, thanks. Uh, I get home pretty late, usually after one in the morning.

A: Really? What exactly is your job?

B: Oh, I thought you knew. I'm a TV announcer. I do WNTV's entertainment reports! Haven't you seen me before?

A: Gee, I'm sorry. I never watch TV.

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Getting Around

Unit 11: Telling the Time

A: What time is it, Sylvia?

B: Uh, it's seven-fifty.

A: Huh, my watch is slow. Maybe it's the battery.

B: Oh, that reminds me; I should tell you about the scatterbrained thing I did.

A: What was that?

B: Well, a few mornings ago, when I woke up, it was already seven-thirty. I thought I'd slept through the alarm.

A: Seven-thirty! That didn't give you much time, did it?

B: No, it didn't. I took a quick shower, jumped into my clothes, and ran all the way here.

A: Did you make it in time?

B: Yeah, I think I got here right at eight. But there was one problem.

A: What was that?

B: There were no other students; I was the only one here!

A: Oh, no! Let me guess--it was Saturday!

B: That's right. I need a clock that tells me what day it is.

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Unit 12: Timetables and Schedules

A: Excuse me, sir; I can't read this timetable. When does train 214 leave?

B: It leaves at four-thirteen pm.

A: And what time does it arrive in Chicago?

B: Just a sec; let me check. It gets in at six twenty-five pm.

A: Okay, I can read this; it's easier than I thought. One more thing--I'll come back on Sunday. Should I use the same timetable?

B: If you turn the page over, you'll see the times for weekends and holidays on the other side

A: Great! Thanks for your help.

B: No problem. Have a good trip.

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Unit 13: Using a Map

A: Hey Jenny; I'm home.

B: Hi Tom; anything new at work?

A: Yeah. The Lees asked us over to their house for dinner tomorrow night.

B: What time?

A: Harry said to come around 6:30.

B: That sounds fine. You know where they live?

A: Well, Harry drew me this map.

B: Wow, it's hard to read; the words are so small! Where's north; is it up here?

A: Uh . . . , I think so.

B: Okay, then this dark line has to be the freeway. And . . . what's this dotted line?

A: Maybe it's a train track.

B: And this circle here looks like a lake. I think he wrote 12253 Waterview Court. Is that right?

A: Something like that. I can check my address book.

B: You know what, Tom? Let's get on the Internet and print out a better map. What do you think?

A: Yeah, let's do that. We'll get lost using this.

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Unit 14: Taking a Taxi

A: Can you take me to Civic Opera House, please?

B: Sure thing. You going to that musical that's playing there?

A: Yes. But it starts at six. Do you think we'll make it in time?

B: Traffic's light and we're not that far away. I'll get you there in about ten minutes.

A: Great! I was late the last time I went, and I couldn't get in till intermission. That's not good if you're a theater critic for the paper like I am.

B: Well, don't worry; this time you'll have plenty of time to spare.

-- A short time later --

B: Here you are, sir, Civic Opera House. What did I tell you? You're thirty minutes early.

A: I sure appreciate it. How much do I owe you?

B: Seventeen twenty-five.

A: Okay, here's a twenty. Keep the change.

B: Thank you, sir. Enjoy the show.

A: I will. Thank you.

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Unit 15: Taking a Train

A: Tickets . . . tickets, please. May I see your ticket, miss?

B: Yes. Uh, now where did I put it? Just a moment; let me look for it.

A: Sure.

B: In my bag? No. Is it on the seat, the floor? No. Oh, here it is in my pocket!

A: Thank you. Are you going all the way into the city?

B: Yeah, the semester's out and I just took my last exam, so I'm going to go sightseeing in Chicago.

A: Is this your first time riding the train to Chicago?

B: No, this is my second time, but I don't remember much. I came with my parents when I was 3.

A: Well, I'd suggest changing seats. The view's much better over on that side of the train.

B: Thank you, I'll do that.

A: And hold on to your ticket. You might be asked for it again. Have a nice trip.

B: Thanks for your help. Maybe I'll see you again when I come back.

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Unit 16: Taking a Bus

A: Tyler, do you know of an easy way to get to the airport? I'm flying home for the holidays.

B: Why don't you take the bus, Sylvia? That's what I always do when I fly.

A: Okay, but I don't know anything about the bus service here.

B: Well, let me ask you--you ever heard of "FastPass"?

A: No, not until now. Is that a bus line?

B: Yes, it is. It will take you straight to your terminal at O'Hare.

A: That sounds like what I need. Do you know how much it costs?

B: The last time I took it, it was $30 one-way. Let me see if I have their card in my wallet. Yeah, here it is. You should call 1-800-500-5500 to reserve a seat.

A: So, do I have to make a reservation?

B: No, you don't have to, you know. But it's better if you do. That way you can make sure you've got a seat. They're pretty crowded at times, especially around holidays.

A: Uh, I think you said 1-800-500-5500, right? I'll give them a call when I get home. Thanks a lot, Tyler.

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Unit 17: Making Arrangements

A: Grist Clothing.

B: This is Pat Jones from Hope Industries. May I speak to George Grist, please?

A: Oh, Ms. Jones! This is George Grist speaking. How are you?

B: I'm fine, thanks. The reason why I called is to ask if I can come and show you our new swimwear catalogue.

A: I'd like that. Say, I'm free after lunch. So, how about this afternoon, say 1:00?

B: I'm afraid I can't, Mr. Grist. I'll be in a meeting all afternoon. I wish I could get out of it but . . .

A: I understand. Is Thursday at 3:00 okay? Are you free then?

B: Hmmm ... I think I am, but let me check. Uh, yes, 3:00 is fine.

A: Great. I'll see you then, Ms Jones.

B: Thank you, Mr. Grist. Bye.

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Unit 18: Buildings and Landmarks

A: Excuse me, ma'am?

B: Yes, sir. How can I help you?

A: I'm a guest here; I'm in Room 514. I have some free time this afternoon, so I want to go see a park, a landmark, something. What would you suggest?

B: Uh . . . Wrigley Field on a sunny day like today is nice.

A: Wrigley Field . . . ? Don't the Cubs play baseball there?

B: That's right. In fact, they have a game there at 4:00. You want to see a building with history? I think Wrigley Field is THE Chicago landmark to see.

A: Great, how do I get there?

B: Go north one block and take the El.

A: The "El"?

B: Oh, that's short for "elevated train." Nothing gets you in or out of Wrigley faster.

A: Well, the game starts in one hour, so I'd better go now. Thanks for your help!

B: No problem; have a good time!

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Unit 19: Buying Train Tickets

A: Uh, what does it say I should do next?

B: Excuse me. Do you need some help?

A: Well . . . yeah . . . I guess so. I'm trying to get to the university, but I'm afraid I can't make heads or tails of this ticket machine.

B: Just push the green button that says "University" and put in two dollars and seventy-five cents.

A: Okay. Like this?

B: Yes, that's right. The train you want will leave from platform 2 at 9:15, which is half an hour from now.

A: Thank you. Oh, and could you tell me how often the trains come?

B: They come every fifty minutes in the evening.

A: Okay. And do you know what station I should get off at?

B: You want University Avenue; that's five stops from here.

A: Okay, I think I've got it. Thanks again.

B: Sure. Good luck.

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Unit 20: Buying Bus Tickets

A: Hi Anna. I'd like to buy a ticket to Chicago, please.

B: What time do you want to leave, Mr. Robinson?

A: Well, tomorrow morning, as early as I can. I've got to see a client and appear in court before noon.

B: There's a bus every thirty minutes starting at 5:30 am.

A: Then, I'd like to leave at that time. Wait . . . my wife's going to drop me off here on her way to work. Could you give me a 6:30 ticket instead?

B: Sure. Will that be one-way or round-trip?

A: Oh, I probably should buy a round-trip ticket now because I'll be coming back tomorrow evening.

B: Do you know what time tomorrow?

A: Uh, do you have a bus that comes around 9?

B: Yes, there's one at 9 o'clock.

A: Okay, I'll take that. I told my wife that we'd go see a movie at 9:30.

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Telephone Conversations

Unit 21: Calling a Friend - Arrangement

A: Hello.

B: Hi there Sylvia. This is Tyler.

A: Oh, Tyler! Where have you been? I called you a few times. I even stopped by your place, but you weren't there.

B: Sorry, I didn't tell you. We go to Indian Lake every Fourth of July. It's kind of a family tradition.

A: Indian Lake? Where's that?

B: Uh, it's about an hour and a half from Chicago. My parents have a cabin here.

A: So, it's just you and your folks there?

B: Yeah, but they have to go back home tomorrow night. Say, would you like to come out?

A: I'd love to, but I can only stay for the weekend. I have a test Monday afternoon.

B: I can get you back in time if we leave early Monday morning. You know how the drive is Monday morning!

A: You don't have to drive me anywhere, Tyler. My friend just sold me her car; that's what I wanted to tell you. Now . . . how do I get to Indian Lake?

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Unit 22: Travel Agent

A: Frontier Airlines. How may I help you?

B: I'd like to make a reservation for the second of May.

A: Yes, sir. Could you give me the city you're leaving from and your destination, please?

B: I'll be departing from Houston, Texas, and flying to Chicago, Illinois.

A: And when do you want to return?

B: Uh, I want to come back on the fifth. Oh, and ma'am, I'd like the cheapest flight you have.

A: Yes, sir. Well, if you leave at 6 am from Houston on May fifth, the price for the flight is $150.

B: And what about from Chicago on the fifth?

A: That's also $150 if you leave at 6 am.

B: Great, let's do that. And would you have any information about places to stay? I'm going to an attorney's convention in the Michigan Avenue area.

A: Yes, sir. But first, may I have you name?

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Unit 23: Movie Ticket Reservation

A: I'd like to reserve two tickets for the matinee on Saturday, the 10th.

B: For which movie, ma'am?

A: Oh, that's right; you have eight theaters there. Um . . . for "Dark and Stormy Night," please.

B: I'm sorry, that show is sold out.

A: Well, how about the matinee on the 11th?

B: Yes ma'am, we do have tickets for that show.

A: Are there any seats left in the middle?

B: Yes, but they're not next to each other. If you want them together, we still have seats in the front and at the back.

A: The front row sounds good. How much are the tickets?

B: $13 total.

A: Okay. Can I use my credit card to pay for the tickets?

B: Sure. Could you give me your name, the name of your card, the card number, and the expiration date, please?

A: Uh, just a second. I have to get my credit card out.

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Unit 24: Hotel Reservation

A: Skylight Hotel Reservations.

B: I want to reserve a room, please.

A: Certainly madam, when would you like to stay?

B: Next Thursday night, that's the 15th.

A: And what type of room would you like? Single or double?

B: Um, there were two of us going, but now it's only me, so . . . just a single room, please.

A: If you'd give me just a moment, please . . . Yes, we do have a single room available on the 15th. The room rate is ninety dollars.

B: Wow! Boy . . . that's a bit more than I expected to pay.

A: Well, you can try calling other hotels, but you'll find this is pretty standard.

B: Uh . . . okay. I don't have the time to call around and I know you're probably right.

A: Great. Let me go ahead then and reserve a room for you. Can you tell me your name, please?

B: It's Mrs. Horner, Peggy Horner. That's with two Gs.

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Unit 25: Emergency

A: 911.

B: Help. I need some help!

A: Yes sir. Can you tell me what is happening?

B: I'm at the university and a student of mine is . . . is going into labor right at this very moment.

A: Yes sir. Can you tell me exactly where you are?

B: On the . . . on the . . . I'm sorry, I'm a nervous wreck right now. We're on the second floor of Cutler Hall, room 211.

A: I understand, sir. May I have your name and the student's name?

B: Her name is . . . uh . . . Anita Rivera. And my name's Lawrence Clark. I'm a professor here at the university

A: Okay, who is there with you?

B: Um, Anita and two other students. They're watching her while I call. What do you think; should we drive her to the hospital?

A: No, an ambulance is already on its way. It should be there very soon.

B: Uh, what should we do while we wait for it to come?

A: Just keep her calm and warm.

B: Okay, we'll do that. Thank you.

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Unit 26: Ordering Pizza

A: Jiffy Pizza. Can I take your order?

B: Yes. I'd like a large pizza.

A: What kind of toppings would you like on that?

B: Uh, I don't know. What toppings can I order?

A: Well, we've got pepperoni, sausage, bacon, ham, pineapple, mushrooms, olives, tomatoes, and green peppers.

B: Hmm . . . I'll have sausage and mushroom. No . . . wait . . . let me change that. I'd like ham and pineapple on it.

A: Okay. Would you like a drink with that?

B: Yes. What do you have?

A: We've got one-liter bottles of apple juice, orange soda, grape soda, and cola.

B: I'd like the orange soda, please.

A: Okay. That comes to . . . thirteen ninety. May I have your name, address, and phone number?

B: Uh, my name's Joan Smith. I'm at 533 Rosewood Avenue, and you can reach me at 876-2345.

A: Okay. That's Joan Smith at 533 Rosewood Avenue, 876-2345?

B: Yes, that's right.

A: Okay. We'll be there at 5:15.

B: In half an hour? Great, thanks!

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Unit 27: Doctor's Appointment

A: Dr. Silver's Office.

B: Oh, I thought you opened at 10:00 am, but my wife said to try earlier. She was right! I was going to call you at lunch.

A: Yes, people are always surprised that we're here so early. How can I help you, sir?

B: I'd like to make an appointment to have a check-up, please.

A: Okay. Could I have your name please?

B: Yes. My name is Ian Conley.

A: Mr. Conley, how about the day after tomorrow at 9:30?

B: Um . . . would you have anything in the afternoon? I have a meeting Thursday morning.

A: Okay. Hmm . . . we do have an opening that afternoon at 4:00. Would that be good for you?

B: Yes, that would be just fine.

A: Okay. Mr. Conley, while I have you on the line, could I just check a few things?

B: Sure.

A: Is your address still 2354 Locklear Street, apartment 11?

B: Actually, ma'am, it's number 17.

A: Okay, I'll change that. And your phone number--is it 233-4027?

B: Yes, it is.

A: Thank you, Mr. Conley. Alright, I have you down for 4:00 on Thursday afternoon.

B: Thanks. See you then.

A: Bye.

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Unit 28: International Phone Calls

A: Agh! This phone booth is so dark. I don't know if I dialed the number right.

B: This is the International Operator. How may I help you?

A: Oh, great! Yes, sir. I'd like to make a collect call to Seoul, Korea, please.

B: What's the number you want to call?

A: The area code is 2, and the phone number there is 333-9373.

B: May I have your name, please?

A: My name is Sylvia.

B: I'm sorry. Could you spell that for me please, please?

A: Sure. It's S... like in Sally or Sherri, Y..., L..., V..., I..., A.

B: And who would you like to talk to?

A: Anyone who answers. It doesn't matter. It'll be either my mom or my dad.

B: Okay. Please hold on and I'll connect you. Alright, go ahead, ma'am; your party is on the line.

A: Thank you so much.

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Unit 29: Restaurant Reservation

A: Great Lakes Fish and Lobster. How may I help you?

B: Yes, when I ate lunch there yesterday, I saw that you accept reservations.

A: Yes, we do.

B: Well, then I'd like to reserve a table for 6:00 tonight if that's possible.

A: Certainly, may I have your name, sir?

B: My name is Tyler.

A: And let me confirm the time you said--you want a table at 6 pm, is that correct?

B: Yes, it is.

B: How large is your party, sir?

A: Uh . . . including myself, there will be ten of us altogether.

B: And do you have a preference, sir?

A: Huh . . . excuse me?

B: Is there any place you would prefer to sit? We do have a smoking section out on the terrace.

A: Oh, I see! Um, would it be possible to reserve a table next to the window? You have a good view of the city.

B: Yes, we can arrange that.

A: Thank you very much.

B: No problem. We'll see you at six.

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Unit 30: Leaving a Message / Voice Mail

A: Hank Kern's office, Sally speaking.

B: Hi, this is Jack Mason calling. Could I speak to Harry, please?

A: Can you hold on one moment, please. I'll see if he's here.

B: Sure.

A: Mr. Mason, Harry walked over to the diner for lunch. He should be back soon. Would you like to leave a message for him?

B: Yes, could you ask him to call me at 708 429-1850. I need to talk to him about the blueprints I drew up for the Peterson building.

A: I'm sorry; could you repeat your number please?

B: Yes, it's 708 429-1850, and my name is Jack Mason. I'll be here at my office until 6:30 tonight.

A: Thank you Mr. Mason. I'll tell Harry to call you as soon as he gets back.

B: Thank you, bye.

A: Bye.

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Assignments

Unit 31: Researching a Paper

A: Sir, you've been using the Online Catalogue for quite a while; is there anything I can help you find?

B: Boy, I've got to write a paper about Hollywood in the 30s and 40s, and I'm really struggling. There are hundreds of books, and I just don't know where to begin.

A: Your topic sounds pretty big. Why don't you narrow it down to something like . . . uh . . . the history of the studios during that time?

B: You know, I was thinking about doing that, but more than 30 books came up when I typed in "movie studios."

A: You could cut that down even further by listing the specific years you want. Try adding "1930s" or "1940s" or maybe "Golden Age."

B: "Golden Age" is a good idea. Let me type that in . . . . Hey, look, just 6 books came up that time. That's a lot better.

A: Oh . . . another thing you might consider . . . have you tried looking for any magazine or newspaper articles?

B: No, I've only been searching for books.

A: Well, you can look up magazine articles in the "Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature." And we do subscribe to "The Los Angeles Times." You might go through their index to see if there's anything you want.

B: Okay. I think I'll get started with these books and then I'll go over the magazines.

A: If you need any help, I'll be over at the Reference Desk.

B: Great, thank you.

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Unit 32: Submitting a Paper

A: Hello. Matt Ellis speaking.

B: Hello, Dr. Ellis, my name's Pam Johnson. My roommate, Janet Holms, wanted me to call you.

A: Janet Holms? Oh, that's right; she's in my Shakespearean English class. Has anything happened to her?

B: Nothing, it's just that she submitted a job application yesterday and the company asked her in for an interview today. She's afraid she won't be able to attend your class this afternoon, though. I'm calling to see if it would be okay if I gave you her essay. Janet said it's due today.

A: Certainly, that would be fine. Uh, you can either drop it off at my class or bring it to my office.

B: Would it be alright to come by your office around 4:00? It's impossible to come any earlier because I have three classes this afternoon.

A: Uh, I won't be here when you come; I'm supposed to be at a meeting from 3 to 6, but how about leaving it with my secretary? She usually stays until 5:00.

B: Fine; please tell her I'll be there at 4:00. And Dr. Ellis, one more thing, could you tell me where your office is located? Janet told me where your class is, but she didn't give me directions to your office.

A: Well, I'm in Room 302 of the Gregory Building. I'll tell my secretary to put the paper in my mail box, and I'll get it when I return.

B: I sure appreciate it; Janet was worried about not getting her paper in on time.

A: No problem. I'll look for Janet's paper later this evening. Good-bye, Ms. Johnston.

B: Bye, Dr. Ellis. Thanks again.

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Unit 33: Doing Homework

A: Hello, Steve?

B: Hi, Veronica. What's going on?

A: Oh, my car's having problems again, but I don't have the time or the money to get it fixed.

B: Is it really bad?

A: It's starting to overheat whenever I'm idling or in heavy traffic, and two days ago I had to pull off the expressway and wait until the engine cooled down.

B: Have you taken it into a shop?

A: Well, I went to two different places yesterday; one mechanic said he'd check the coolant level and look for fluid leaks, and the other guy said he thought it was the thermostat. I didn't leave the car with either of them, though, because I didn't have a ride back.

B: What are you going to do?

A: I really don't know. I'll have to figure out something; the bus service is terrible around where I live. Anyway, could I ask you for a favor?

B: Of course, what is it?

A: You know, tomorrow's Monday and we're supposed to turn in our homework in English, but I'm only gotten halfway through it-I've just been too busy. If I came over, would you help me finish it?

B: Sure, I'll be here all evening. And actually I haven't finished the homework either; I've just been putting it off, so it's good you're coming over-I need someone to motivate me.

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Unit 34: Choosing a Topic

A: Excuse me, Dr Chandler, do you have a moment?

B: Of course, what can I do for you, Sienna?

A: I want to change the topic of my paper. You know I was writing about Apollo 11, but now I want to write about something else.

B: I'm surprised. On Monday, you were showing me all the pictures of the moon landing you'd found on the Internet.

A: Well, yesterday my friend introduced me to her uncle, who was an astronaut at NASA up until a year ago. I'd like to write about him if that's okay.

B: Yes, that sounds like it'll be a fascinating paper. Make sure you include some historical facts, though; this gentleman's job must have been very interesting, but don't forget the historical context or background.

A: I've got some books about the American space program.

B: That sounds like a good start. You could talk a little about the European and Russian space programs, too.

A: I'll do that. I'll see you next week, Dr. Chandler. Thank you!

B: Bye, Sienna. I look forward to reading your paper.

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Classes

Unit 35: Study Partners

A: Holly, is it possible to borrow your notes? I'll return them tomorrow.

B: Sorry, but I usually go to the cafeteria and review them. Say, how about copying them over in the library?

A: Okay, I think I've got enough coins for the machines. You're a lifesaver, Holly!

B: No problem. But I don't understand why you need my notes, Carter; you haven't missed any classes.

A: Weekday mornings, I'm a cashier at a coffee shop downtown. After work, I come directly to school, and, boy, am I beat!

B: Wow, you're probably exhausted!

A: That's exactly why I want to borrow your notes; I've been nodding off during class, so my notes aren't very good.

B: Well, here's Professor Labelle; how you feeling?

A: I'm usually awake at the beginning. But thirty minutes into class and I'm having trouble keeping my eyes open.

B: Listen, I need someone to study with, and you need someone to keep you awake; want to be study partners?

A: Yeah, I'd sure appreciate it.

B: Okay; let's start today at the library. We're going there anyway, and I don't have to go to the cafeteria.

A: Sounds good. Oh, no, it looks like he's brought along some more of his slides; elbow me if I start drifting off.

B: I'm afraid I won't be very helpful; his slides make me sleepy too!

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Unit 36: Attending Class

A: Oh, Janna, you're early! I'm happy you're here early today because I'd like to discuss your attendance for a moment.

B: Gee, Dr. Livingston, I'm really sorry about missing yesterday.

A: Actually, it's been several days. Counting today, we've only had 6 classes, yet you've already missed 4. You won't be able to pass if you're constantly absent.

B: Sorry, I've been extremely busy.

A: Well, I hope you're ready for today's exam.

B: Today? I thought it was Monday!

A: Read the syllabus, Janna; this is precisely what I'm talking about. You should either make an effort to attend, or you should consider withdrawing while it's still possible.

B: What do you mean?

A: Today's the final day you can withdraw and get a full refund.

B: Maybe I really should; what do you suggest?

A: I wish you could attend classes regularly; however, if you don't believe you're capable of this, then don't waste your money.

B: Thanks, Dr. Livingston; I really appreciate your advice. If it's okay, I suppose I'll go ahead and drop the class.

A: It's entirely up to you, but that might be best if you don't think things are going to change. Excuse me, the students are coming, and I've got to get ready for class. I wish you the very best of luck, Janna.

B: Thank you, Dr. Livingston. Good bye.

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Short Talks

Unit 37: Short Talk 1 - Planetology

Good morning everyone. My name is Professor Michael Andrews. On behalf of myself and my colleagues, I would like to welcome you to Extrasolar Planetology, which is a new class being offered by the Astronomy Department this year.

About twenty-five years ago, there was no solid proof that other planets existed beyond our solar system. Most astronomers at that time felt that planets had to be out there, but they could not see them or prove they were there. Why? Simply put, planets are small and space is vast. Imagine trying to see a pea with a telescope from a hundred miles away, and you'll understand how hard it is to find planets that are light years distant.

Clearly, something changed, for we now have a class called Extrasolar Planetology. What changed? Well, mainly, instruments got better and sophisticated telescopes were put into space. As a result, astronomers began to find the proof that they had lacked before.

The very first good evidence for the existence of other planets came from observations of 'wobbling' stars. Using their high-tech instruments and space-based telescopes, astronomers found that some stars wobbled as they moved through space. What could be causing this the astronomers wondered? And then Eureka! The only likely explanation seemed to be that these stars were being affected by the gravity of unseen orbiting companions. In other words-planets!

And now, if you would please turn off the lights, I would like to show you some slides of a few of these wobbling stars.

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Unit 38: Short Talk 2 - Sigmund Freud

Class, before I let you go today, I want to tell you about a fascinating program that is going to be on in four days at 8 pm on Channel 12. It's part of the "Great Minds in Psychology" series that has been on Public TV this year. The subject of Monday's program will be Austrian psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud. The program explains how Freud pioneered the technique of psychoanalysis, and it looks at Freud's investigations into the internal conflicts between the conscious and unconscious. As you know from taking this class, Freud split the psyche into three parts: the id, the ego and the super ego. The program covers this fairly well, and everything is illustrated with great computer animation that makes the explanations really easy to grasp. One more thing I like is that Freud's controversial ideas are shown without bias, for the narrative is fair and balanced, as well as scholarly. There are no 'Freud lovers' or 'Freud bashers' here. You really should make an effort to watch this show, especially since some questions about Sigmund Freud will be on the quiz next Tuesday. But more than that, I think you will find the hour-long show to be both interesting and informative. By the way, it says here in the program notes that the following week's program will be about Carl Jung. I just hope that it's as good and evenhanded as this one is about Sigmund Freud. Well, that's all I have for today. Tomorrow is a holiday, so I will see you Monday afternoon. Oh, and please make sure you bring in your homework when I see you next time. Bye and have a good holiday!

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Unit 39: Short Talk 3 - Earth Formation

Welcome. It looks as if everyone who's coming is already here, so let's start, shall we? In yesterday's class, I talked about how the Earth and the Moon are thought to have formed. As I told you, the best theory concerning their origins seems to be the "Single Source" theory. This states that the Earth and Moon were made out of the same ball of molten mass. I also talked about how the Earth eventually cooled down and how its surface features formed. And just before the end of class, we looked at how all the continents were fused into one gigantic continent called Pangea. Now, to continue from where we left off, we know for certain that this massive continent did not last forever-just look at a present-day globe. According to current theories regarding continental drift, this huge landmass probably began to fracture into the continents we see today about 200 million years ago. This date is supported by the ages of basalt flows that have been found in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It is likely, by the way, that the Atlantic did not form immediately after Pangea's breakup, but I'm getting way ahead of myself. Right now I want to show you a short video about Pangea. After that, I'll talk about the oceans.

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Unit 40 Short Talk 4 - English Etymology

Good afternoon everybody and welcome to English Etymology 201. I hope that all of you have found a seat and can hear me; if not, please let me know. My name is Professor Patricia Morris; I'll be your instructor for the next 10 weeks. As you can probably tell, this is one of the most popular-and crowded-classes on campus; indeed, every time this etymology course is offered, this room is filled to capacity. Why is that? Well, in order to use the English language, it's very important to have at least a basic understanding of word parts. Just to cite one estimate-and there are many-there are over 1 million words in the English lexicon. If you are an English learner, you might wonder how you can possibly remember all of these words. Well, for one thing, you don't have to; no native speaker exists who knows all of the words in the English language. Besides, there are shortcuts. Shortcuts? Yes, if you know the most commonly used prefixes, roots, and suffixes-most derived from Latin, Greek and Germanic sources-you will understand a good number of English words when you first run across them. Ears perk up whenever I put it this way-knowing the word parts that make up many English words will substantially increase your vocabulary. This is probably the number one reason why this class is so popular.

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