How one actor inspires normal people to do crazy things
Actor and Twitter celebrity Misha Collins has a unique sense of humor. Ask anyone who's participated in the annual, week-long scavenger hunt he organizes. Called GISHWHES, or Greatest International Scavenger Hunt the World Has Ever Seen, the event involves completing tasks for points. The tasks range from heart-warming - giving hugs - to just plain weird - making clothes out of cheese!
The 15-member teams supply photos or videos to prove they've completed tasks. Teams must provide exactly what's requested to get full points. If the list calls for a photo with a real Oscar-winning actor, the team must somehow find one. And the actor must be holding the Oscar!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: The Other Definition of Or
Language Lab
sense of humor n.
She has a great sense of humor. [=she says funny things and can see the funny side of things]
- Irene's sense of humor made her very popular at school.
sense of direction
His excellent sense of direction [=ability to find his way around easily in a new place] was useful during our travels.
- Patrick lacks a sense of direction, so he gets lost a lot.
weird adj.
unusual or strange
- Hank's weird behavior caught everyone's attention.
- The weird family next door never talks to the neighbors.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140114_9e7b0.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140114baa307bf3a760b0798c3ab7d2d75046dc68adb720d44bbb6eb1ddde8963e3ee58a7.wma
http://203.69.69.81/studio/20140115baa749ce81814c718589cce41389ada4dc22edf6b2eadd4e8d45b543b19a4a3bb1a.wma
http://203.69.69.81/studio/20140116baa6a8258a961934490b9a14cff5b2b909132d45af8ef00091a2085c9a5370af66f.wma
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Monday, January 13, 2014
The Decision
I’m going to America!
In ninth grade I was preparing for the Basic Competence Test for Junior High School Students. Life was busy but not interesting. Then one day, my parents asked if I would be interested in attending an exchange program sponsored by Ayusa. This organization offers high-school students the opportunity to study abroad for one year. The students stay with host families.
So I obtained some information and decided this would be a great chance to improve my English. I could also experience different cultures and broaden my vision.
But first I had to pass the SLEP (Secondary Level English Proficiency Test). Then I had to fill out many forms and get a health check. That helps the families decide which student to host. Ayusa helped with other procedures like flights.
There was some fun during the process, too. For example, Ayusa held a prom. We practiced asking girls to dance. At first, we were all shy, but eventually everyone tried and had a great time! Now, off I go!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: You Reap What You Sow
種瓜得瓜，種豆得豆 [reap v. 收割/sow v. 播種]
今天課文說到作者有機會去交換學生,
而且是跟接待家庭一起住, (host families)
這是一個難得的機會!
許多人到國外讀書, 卻跟自已國家的人住在一起,
這樣失去了學英文的好機會,
如果可以跟host family 住在一起,
決對可以提升英文程度,
因為你在花時間sow,
之後你得到的reap一定會比跟花時間跟同鄉混在一起的多
Grammar Gym
At first, we were all shy, but eventually everyone tried and had a great time!
1. At first we were all shy.
2. Eventually everyone tried and had a great time.
- We can go to the beach to watch the sunset, or we can drive into the mountains instead.
- Timothy will handle the guest list, and Maurice is in charge of the food and decorations.
Language Lab
competence n. 能力, 技能
/ˈkɑ:mpətəns/
the ability to do something well : the quality or state of being competent
- Every new student is required to take an English competence test before the semester begins.
學期開始前, 每位新生都必需考英文學力測驗
- Bob's professional competence in computer software is unquestionable.
Bob在電腦軟體的專業是無庸置疑的
broaden v. 變寬, 變闊; 擴大 [broad寬大的]
/ˈbrɑ:dn̩/
to make (something) wider or more general
- The trip to Europe really broadened my horizons.
歐洲之旅擴展了我的視野
- Brad's voluntary work in Afirca broadened his life experiences.
Brad在非洲志願服務擴展了他人生的閱歷
procedure n. 程序; 手續; 步驟
a series of actions that are done in a certain way or order : an established or accepted way of doing something
- All of the procedures required to apply for college are quite complicated.
申請大學一切的程序還滿複雜的
a medical treatment or operation
- This minor surgical procedure took only an hour.
這個非常小的外科手術只花了一個小時的時間
proceed v. 進行
to continue to do something
- The meeting proceeded after the short break.
短暫的休息之後, 會議繼續進行
eventually adv.最後, 終於
at some later time : in the end
- After months of practicing, Timothy eventually was accepted by the team.
經過幾個月的苦練Timothy 終於進入球隊
- Even though the couple is apart now, they believe they will be together eventually.
即使這對情侶是分開的, 但是他們相信他們終究會在一起
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140113_19f02.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140113baa5d6c27250d6721082d815817b7c83f2971c94dc7ddc9830d66b82bd2d48c45c3.wma
In ninth grade I was preparing for the Basic Competence Test for Junior High School Students. Life was busy but not interesting. Then one day, my parents asked if I would be interested in attending an exchange program sponsored by Ayusa. This organization offers high-school students the opportunity to study abroad for one year. The students stay with host families.
So I obtained some information and decided this would be a great chance to improve my English. I could also experience different cultures and broaden my vision.
But first I had to pass the SLEP (Secondary Level English Proficiency Test). Then I had to fill out many forms and get a health check. That helps the families decide which student to host. Ayusa helped with other procedures like flights.
There was some fun during the process, too. For example, Ayusa held a prom. We practiced asking girls to dance. At first, we were all shy, but eventually everyone tried and had a great time! Now, off I go!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: You Reap What You Sow
種瓜得瓜，種豆得豆 [reap v. 收割/sow v. 播種]
今天課文說到作者有機會去交換學生,
而且是跟接待家庭一起住, (host families)
這是一個難得的機會!
許多人到國外讀書, 卻跟自已國家的人住在一起,
這樣失去了學英文的好機會,
如果可以跟host family 住在一起,
決對可以提升英文程度,
因為你在花時間sow,
之後你得到的reap一定會比跟花時間跟同鄉混在一起的多
Grammar Gym
At first, we were all shy, but eventually everyone tried and had a great time!
1. At first we were all shy.
2. Eventually everyone tried and had a great time.
- We can go to the beach to watch the sunset, or we can drive into the mountains instead.
- Timothy will handle the guest list, and Maurice is in charge of the food and decorations.
Language Lab
competence n. 能力, 技能
/ˈkɑ:mpətəns/
the ability to do something well : the quality or state of being competent
- Every new student is required to take an English competence test before the semester begins.
學期開始前, 每位新生都必需考英文學力測驗
- Bob's professional competence in computer software is unquestionable.
Bob在電腦軟體的專業是無庸置疑的
broaden v. 變寬, 變闊; 擴大 [broad寬大的]
/ˈbrɑ:dn̩/
to make (something) wider or more general
- The trip to Europe really broadened my horizons.
歐洲之旅擴展了我的視野
- Brad's voluntary work in Afirca broadened his life experiences.
Brad在非洲志願服務擴展了他人生的閱歷
procedure n. 程序; 手續; 步驟
a series of actions that are done in a certain way or order : an established or accepted way of doing something
- All of the procedures required to apply for college are quite complicated.
申請大學一切的程序還滿複雜的
a medical treatment or operation
- This minor surgical procedure took only an hour.
這個非常小的外科手術只花了一個小時的時間
proceed v. 進行
to continue to do something
- The meeting proceeded after the short break.
短暫的休息之後, 會議繼續進行
eventually adv.最後, 終於
at some later time : in the end
- After months of practicing, Timothy eventually was accepted by the team.
經過幾個月的苦練Timothy 終於進入球隊
- Even though the couple is apart now, they believe they will be together eventually.
即使這對情侶是分開的, 但是他們相信他們終究會在一起
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140113_19f02.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140113baa5d6c27250d6721082d815817b7c83f2971c94dc7ddc9830d66b82bd2d48c45c3.wma
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Depression Part 1: Naming the Darkness (2)
When your mood is dark, how do you know whether you're depressed or just sad? Think about how long the feelings have lasted. If they have persisted for weeks or months, get help.
One other sign that helped me identify my depression was that I didn't know why I was so sad. Even when nothing bad had happened, I still felt miserable.
What can I do?
No one should face depression alone. If you're depressed, find someone — a friend, parent, teacher or pastor — and tell them your feelings. Consider seeing a doctor or psychologist, and if you ever want to kill yourself, get help immediately.
When I was depressed, I was embarrassed to tell anyone. I didn't want to seem weak or needy. But when I told my friends, they supported and encouraged me.
I have since realized that there's nothing wrong with admitting that you're depressed. It's a common problem. In face, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that depression affects 350 million people worldwide. But treatments are available and can bring hope and joy back into your life.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: “No One” Is Two Words
Teaching Topic: “No One” Is Two Words
要表達沒有一個人, 可以用nobody 或 no one,
但是要注意 nobody是一個字, no one 是二個字,
no one一定要分成二個字, 因為合在一起noone讀法不一樣,
而在英式英文可以看到no-one中間有一個-（連字符號）
這個是美式英文裡不會看到的，
今天課文裡說到
- No one should face depression alone.
No One” Is Two Words
Grammar Gym
If you're depressed, find someone — a friend, parent, teacher or pastor — and tell them your feelings.
— emdashes: show that examples are being listed
- Find something long and skinny—a pencil, a pen, or even a straw — and practice doing this easy magic trick.
- Amy came home and grabbed a few things—clothes, snacks, and her water bottle— and rushed to the gym.
Language Lab
persist v.
o continue to do something or to try to do something even though it is difficult or other people want you to stop;
to continue to occur or exist beyond the usual, expected, or normal time
- If the snowstorm persists,we'll run out of supplies.
- Despite his injuries, the pitcher persisted and finished the game.
persistence n.
the quality that allows someone to continue doing something or trying to do something even though it is difficult or opposed by other people
- With sheer persistence, the salesman finally persuaded his customer to buy the product.
miserable adj.
very bad
- Josh looked miserable after his girlfriend left him.
- The company's financial situation is miserable.
misery n.
extreme suffering or unhappiness
- All of the miseries the child star experienced were a result of his fame.
needy adj. [need v.]
not having enough money, food, etc., to live properly;
needing a lot of attention, affection, or emotional support
- Cherry always looks helpless and needy.
- The foundation is devoted to helping needy children in Africa.
estimate v.
a guess that you make based on the information you have about the size, amount, etc., of something
- It's difficult to estimate how much damage the typhoon has caused.
- The mechanic estimated that the car will take 10 days to repair.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140111baa6099566a0e5fbd74db08829e2df0f90058170b68e4eeb1f9e6c7084d37c04bdd.wma
One other sign that helped me identify my depression was that I didn't know why I was so sad. Even when nothing bad had happened, I still felt miserable.
What can I do?
No one should face depression alone. If you're depressed, find someone — a friend, parent, teacher or pastor — and tell them your feelings. Consider seeing a doctor or psychologist, and if you ever want to kill yourself, get help immediately.
When I was depressed, I was embarrassed to tell anyone. I didn't want to seem weak or needy. But when I told my friends, they supported and encouraged me.
I have since realized that there's nothing wrong with admitting that you're depressed. It's a common problem. In face, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that depression affects 350 million people worldwide. But treatments are available and can bring hope and joy back into your life.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: “No One” Is Two Words
Teaching Topic: “No One” Is Two Words
要表達沒有一個人, 可以用nobody 或 no one,
但是要注意 nobody是一個字, no one 是二個字,
no one一定要分成二個字, 因為合在一起noone讀法不一樣,
而在英式英文可以看到no-one中間有一個-（連字符號）
這個是美式英文裡不會看到的，
今天課文裡說到
- No one should face depression alone.
No One” Is Two Words
Grammar Gym
If you're depressed, find someone — a friend, parent, teacher or pastor — and tell them your feelings.
— emdashes: show that examples are being listed
- Find something long and skinny—a pencil, a pen, or even a straw — and practice doing this easy magic trick.
- Amy came home and grabbed a few things—clothes, snacks, and her water bottle— and rushed to the gym.
Language Lab
persist v.
o continue to do something or to try to do something even though it is difficult or other people want you to stop;
to continue to occur or exist beyond the usual, expected, or normal time
- If the snowstorm persists,we'll run out of supplies.
- Despite his injuries, the pitcher persisted and finished the game.
persistence n.
the quality that allows someone to continue doing something or trying to do something even though it is difficult or opposed by other people
- With sheer persistence, the salesman finally persuaded his customer to buy the product.
miserable adj.
very bad
- Josh looked miserable after his girlfriend left him.
- The company's financial situation is miserable.
misery n.
extreme suffering or unhappiness
- All of the miseries the child star experienced were a result of his fame.
needy adj. [need v.]
not having enough money, food, etc., to live properly;
needing a lot of attention, affection, or emotional support
- Cherry always looks helpless and needy.
- The foundation is devoted to helping needy children in Africa.
estimate v.
a guess that you make based on the information you have about the size, amount, etc., of something
- It's difficult to estimate how much damage the typhoon has caused.
- The mechanic estimated that the car will take 10 days to repair.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140111baa6099566a0e5fbd74db08829e2df0f90058170b68e4eeb1f9e6c7084d37c04bdd.wma
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Depression Part 1: Naming the Darkness (1)
How to recognize this hidden threat
When I was in junior high school, darkness began filling my mind. I don't know the day or the reason why it began. All I know is that I started feeling hopeless and worthless. I hid in my room, starting out the window, thinking about all my failures. I even questioned weather being alive was worthwhile. My dark mood wasn't constant. It would fade at times, but it always returned.
After hesitating for years, I finally told my parents what I was feeling. They helped me identify the shadow that hung over my life - depression.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental illness that drains your energy and prevents you from enjoying life. It can keep you from succeeding at school or work or from connecting with others. At its worst, depression can even lead to suicide.
Symptoms of depression include:
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite causing weight gain or loss
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Feeling guilty, worthless or hopeless
- Thoughts of suicide
Grammar Gym
At its worst, depression can even lead to suicide.
"at it worst": what something is or was like when it's in its most terrible form
- With no government support, the school's financial situation is at it's worst.
- This typhoon is this season's weather at it's worst.
"at his/her worst"
- The singer is known for his bad temper. He is always at his worst right before a concert.
- I'm at my worst whenever I have to deal with stress.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: The Great Depression
depression 憂鬱症
除了可以指心理的憂傷, 也可以指經濟的不景氣 economic depression
若是看到 the Great Depression 前面加上定冠詞, 前面加上大寫的G/D
指的是1930年代的經濟大蕭條
起源於美國, 後來漫延到世界各地的經濟大蕭條
因此我們要形容某個人有嚴重的憂鬱症, 最好不要用great 這個形容詞
可以用 a sever depression / a serious depression
Editor's Summary
Depression, it often leaves one with feelings hopelessness and worthlessness.
But, what exactly is it?
It is a form of mental illness that takes away your energy, along with the joy out of living.
Some symptoms include fatigue, difficultly concentrating, and sleeping, and even thoughts of suicide.
Language Lab
worthless/worthwhile adj.
worthless adj. 沒有價值, 不值錢的 [worth價值/less少, 沒有 ]
something that is worthless has no value, importance, or use
- These cars are worthless since they were in the big flood.
這些車因為嚴重的水災泡過水已經不值錢了
worthwhile adj. 值得做的, 值得花時間的
if something is worthwhile, it is important or useful, or you gain something from it
- It's not worthwhile to spend so much time discussing this minor detail.
花這麼多時間去討論這麼小的細節是不值得的
identify v. 指出, 認出, 確定
to recognize and correctly name someone or something
- The witness identified the suspect in a lineup.
這個證人在一行的可疑份子中認出了嫌犯
- The customer identified his wallet at the lost and found.
這個客人在失物招領處認出了他的皮夾
identification n.
something that shows who a person is : a document, card, etc., that has your name and other information about you and that often includes your photograph
- The identification of the victims of the plane crash took a long time.
飛機失事喪生者的指認花了許久的時間
symptom n.疾病的症狀
a change in the body or mind which indicates that a disease is present
- Coughing is one of the symptoms of pneumonia.
咳受是肺炎的症狀之一
- The medicine can only ease the symptoms of the disease; it can't cure it.
這個藥可以減輕這個病的症狀, 但不能完全治好
fatigue n. 疲勞, 勞累
/fəˈti:g/
[uncountable] very great tiredness [= exhaustion]
- The patient's sleep problems caused fatigue and chronic headaches.
這位病患的睡眠問題造成他非常的勞累和長年的頭痛
- Because Ted's health is deteriorating from fatigue, his doctor suggested that he stop working for a few months.
由於Ted健康因為疲勞而惡化, 醫生建議他幾個月不要上班
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140110_745ff.wmv
When I was in junior high school, darkness began filling my mind. I don't know the day or the reason why it began. All I know is that I started feeling hopeless and worthless. I hid in my room, starting out the window, thinking about all my failures. I even questioned weather being alive was worthwhile. My dark mood wasn't constant. It would fade at times, but it always returned.
After hesitating for years, I finally told my parents what I was feeling. They helped me identify the shadow that hung over my life - depression.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental illness that drains your energy and prevents you from enjoying life. It can keep you from succeeding at school or work or from connecting with others. At its worst, depression can even lead to suicide.
Symptoms of depression include:
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite causing weight gain or loss
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Feeling guilty, worthless or hopeless
- Thoughts of suicide
Grammar Gym
At its worst, depression can even lead to suicide.
"at it worst": what something is or was like when it's in its most terrible form
- With no government support, the school's financial situation is at it's worst.
- This typhoon is this season's weather at it's worst.
"at his/her worst"
- The singer is known for his bad temper. He is always at his worst right before a concert.
- I'm at my worst whenever I have to deal with stress.
Teaching Topic: The Great Depression
depression 憂鬱症
除了可以指心理的憂傷, 也可以指經濟的不景氣 economic depression
若是看到 the Great Depression 前面加上定冠詞, 前面加上大寫的G/D
指的是1930年代的經濟大蕭條
起源於美國, 後來漫延到世界各地的經濟大蕭條
因此我們要形容某個人有嚴重的憂鬱症, 最好不要用great 這個形容詞
可以用 a sever depression / a serious depression
Editor's Summary
Depression, it often leaves one with feelings hopelessness and worthlessness.
But, what exactly is it?
It is a form of mental illness that takes away your energy, along with the joy out of living.
Some symptoms include fatigue, difficultly concentrating, and sleeping, and even thoughts of suicide.
Language Lab
worthless/worthwhile adj.
worthless adj. 沒有價值, 不值錢的 [worth價值/less少, 沒有 ]
something that is worthless has no value, importance, or use
- These cars are worthless since they were in the big flood.
這些車因為嚴重的水災泡過水已經不值錢了
worthwhile adj. 值得做的, 值得花時間的
if something is worthwhile, it is important or useful, or you gain something from it
- It's not worthwhile to spend so much time discussing this minor detail.
花這麼多時間去討論這麼小的細節是不值得的
identify v. 指出, 認出, 確定
to recognize and correctly name someone or something
- The witness identified the suspect in a lineup.
這個證人在一行的可疑份子中認出了嫌犯
- The customer identified his wallet at the lost and found.
這個客人在失物招領處認出了他的皮夾
identification n.
something that shows who a person is : a document, card, etc., that has your name and other information about you and that often includes your photograph
- The identification of the victims of the plane crash took a long time.
飛機失事喪生者的指認花了許久的時間
symptom n.疾病的症狀
a change in the body or mind which indicates that a disease is present
- Coughing is one of the symptoms of pneumonia.
咳受是肺炎的症狀之一
- The medicine can only ease the symptoms of the disease; it can't cure it.
這個藥可以減輕這個病的症狀, 但不能完全治好
fatigue n. 疲勞, 勞累
/fəˈti:g/
[uncountable] very great tiredness [= exhaustion]
- The patient's sleep problems caused fatigue and chronic headaches.
這位病患的睡眠問題造成他非常的勞累和長年的頭痛
- Because Ted's health is deteriorating from fatigue, his doctor suggested that he stop working for a few months.
由於Ted健康因為疲勞而惡化, 醫生建議他幾個月不要上班
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140110_745ff.wmv
Ice Hockey
Some describe hockey as the fastest game in the world
It can travel at speeds up to 160.9 kilometers per hour. Men, women and children wear skates and chase it around the ice. They try to hit it with sticks. What is it? A hockey puck! The puck is made of rubber and isn't very big. It takes a lot of skill to move it around the ice. But that's what the game of ice hockey is all about. Players hit the puck and try to get it into the other team's goal.
Many people play hockey just for fun. But each year, professional teams play for the Stanley Cup. That is hockey's most cherished prize. One would think people would be careful with such an important prize, but no. It was once left by the side of the road by accident!
Hockey's popularity is especially high in Russia and Canada. In fact, it's Canada's national sport. Both Canada and Russia have won eight Olympic gold medals in men's hockey. That's more than any other country. Both hope to bring home the gold at next month's Winter Olympics.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Tropical Nations at Winter Games?
冬季奧運也有熱帶國家(the tropics)參與,
最出名的就是 1988年參加冬奧 Jamaican bobsled team 牙買加國家雪車隊
Grammar Gym
One would think people would be careful with such an important prize, but no.
One would think ... , but no.
- One would think that a GPS would give me clear directions, but no. I actually got lost.
- One would think that a hotel package deal would include a free breakfast, but no.
- We had to pay for breakfast.
Language Lab
skate n. 溜冰鞋;
- Rita got a pair of white ice skates for her birthday.
roller-skate n. 四輪溜冰鞋
skate v. 溜冰
- The kids skated on the frozen lake.
goal n. 目標, 球門, 進球得分
- The placekicker successfully kicked the ball into the goal.
- The quarterback scored the goal with ease.
cherish v. 愛護, 珍惜
- Mom cherished all the love letters Dad wrote to her when he was working abroad.
- We only have three days here in Paris. Let's cherish every moment.
popularity n. 流行, 普及, 名氣
- The popularity of the band increased tremendously after they released their latest album.
popular adj. 受歡迎的, 流行的
- This popular cellphone is out of stock right now.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140109baade722fcf8f0fada1d26ab90196f58e9f35939c201d57b575a15d1301fcdfb810.wma
It can travel at speeds up to 160.9 kilometers per hour. Men, women and children wear skates and chase it around the ice. They try to hit it with sticks. What is it? A hockey puck! The puck is made of rubber and isn't very big. It takes a lot of skill to move it around the ice. But that's what the game of ice hockey is all about. Players hit the puck and try to get it into the other team's goal.
Many people play hockey just for fun. But each year, professional teams play for the Stanley Cup. That is hockey's most cherished prize. One would think people would be careful with such an important prize, but no. It was once left by the side of the road by accident!
Hockey's popularity is especially high in Russia and Canada. In fact, it's Canada's national sport. Both Canada and Russia have won eight Olympic gold medals in men's hockey. That's more than any other country. Both hope to bring home the gold at next month's Winter Olympics.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Tropical Nations at Winter Games?
冬季奧運也有熱帶國家(the tropics)參與,
最出名的就是 1988年參加冬奧 Jamaican bobsled team 牙買加國家雪車隊
Grammar Gym
One would think people would be careful with such an important prize, but no.
One would think ... , but no.
- One would think that a GPS would give me clear directions, but no. I actually got lost.
- One would think that a hotel package deal would include a free breakfast, but no.
- We had to pay for breakfast.
Language Lab
skate n. 溜冰鞋;
- Rita got a pair of white ice skates for her birthday.
roller-skate n. 四輪溜冰鞋
skate v. 溜冰
- The kids skated on the frozen lake.
goal n. 目標, 球門, 進球得分
- The placekicker successfully kicked the ball into the goal.
- The quarterback scored the goal with ease.
cherish v. 愛護, 珍惜
- Mom cherished all the love letters Dad wrote to her when he was working abroad.
- We only have three days here in Paris. Let's cherish every moment.
popularity n. 流行, 普及, 名氣
- The popularity of the band increased tremendously after they released their latest album.
popular adj. 受歡迎的, 流行的
- This popular cellphone is out of stock right now.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140109baade722fcf8f0fada1d26ab90196f58e9f35939c201d57b575a15d1301fcdfb810.wma
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
The World's Best Winter Festivals (3)
Holmenkollen Ski Festival
Skiing rules at the annual Holmenkollen Ski Festival in Oslo, Norway. The main attraction? Holmenkollbakken, a huge ski jumping hill with room for 30,000 enthusiastic spectators and a handful of valiant skiers. The ski jump itself is around 60 meters high. Every year Holmenkollen hosts the International Ski Federation Nordic Skiing World Cup, a competition among the world's best in skiing. Ski fans can also check out the oldest ski museum in the world, located right under the ski jump.
Snow Village
In December Finland created its 13th annual Snow Village, which will remain open until April, or even later, if the weather permits! Snow Village lies nearly 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. The village is designed and assembled by builders skilled in working with snow and ice. Visitors can take a tour of the village, eat in a restaurant made of ice or go dancing in the disco igloo. They can also spend the night in a hotel made of snow. There's even an ice chapel for couples who want to get married in Snow Village! If you can't get to one of these festivals, check out the winter activities in your own area!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: You Rule!
rule 統治, 支配, 俚語表示很強, 很厲害
someone or some body rule: means great
- I rule on the basketball court!
- Mexican food rules! 墨西哥料理很棒
- Linkin Park rules!
- skiing rules 划雪活動當道
rock 搖滾, 搖擺, 俚語也表示很強, 很厲害
- rock 'n' roll You rock! 你很行
Grammar Gym
The main attraction?
= What is the main attraction? [the verb is assumed]
Tea or coffee?
= Would you like tea or coffee?
Lunch, anyone?
= Does anyone want to have lunch together?
Language Lab
enthusiastic adj. 充滿熱情的, 狂熱的
- The boss doesn't seem to be enthusiastic about my proposal.
- The guitar player's performance won him rounds of enthusiastic applause.
federation n. 聯盟, 聯邦, 聯合會
- The United States is a federation of 50 states.
the Federation of American Scientists 美國科學家聯會
the National Wildlife Federation 國家野生動物聯盟
the International Judo Federation 國際柔道聯盟
Arctic Circle n. 北極圈
- Polar bears can be found in the Arctic Circle.
arctic adj. 北極的, 寒帶的, 極寒冷的
- The arctic conditions of the campsite are making the research progress slowly.
chapel n. 教堂(規模較小)
- The couple got married at a chapel in Las Vegas.
- The people of the town go to the little white chapel on the hill for Sunday services.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140108baa0d6de01d1805dfead2fadf24b1b63759669859e4eda99b0cf8cae462ab839139.wma
Skiing rules at the annual Holmenkollen Ski Festival in Oslo, Norway. The main attraction? Holmenkollbakken, a huge ski jumping hill with room for 30,000 enthusiastic spectators and a handful of valiant skiers. The ski jump itself is around 60 meters high. Every year Holmenkollen hosts the International Ski Federation Nordic Skiing World Cup, a competition among the world's best in skiing. Ski fans can also check out the oldest ski museum in the world, located right under the ski jump.
Snow Village
In December Finland created its 13th annual Snow Village, which will remain open until April, or even later, if the weather permits! Snow Village lies nearly 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. The village is designed and assembled by builders skilled in working with snow and ice. Visitors can take a tour of the village, eat in a restaurant made of ice or go dancing in the disco igloo. They can also spend the night in a hotel made of snow. There's even an ice chapel for couples who want to get married in Snow Village! If you can't get to one of these festivals, check out the winter activities in your own area!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: You Rule!
rule 統治, 支配, 俚語表示很強, 很厲害
someone or some body rule: means great
- I rule on the basketball court!
- Mexican food rules! 墨西哥料理很棒
- Linkin Park rules!
- skiing rules 划雪活動當道
rock 搖滾, 搖擺, 俚語也表示很強, 很厲害
- rock 'n' roll You rock! 你很行
Grammar Gym
The main attraction?
= What is the main attraction? [the verb is assumed]
Tea or coffee?
= Would you like tea or coffee?
Lunch, anyone?
= Does anyone want to have lunch together?
Language Lab
enthusiastic adj. 充滿熱情的, 狂熱的
- The boss doesn't seem to be enthusiastic about my proposal.
- The guitar player's performance won him rounds of enthusiastic applause.
federation n. 聯盟, 聯邦, 聯合會
- The United States is a federation of 50 states.
the Federation of American Scientists 美國科學家聯會
the National Wildlife Federation 國家野生動物聯盟
the International Judo Federation 國際柔道聯盟
Arctic Circle n. 北極圈
- Polar bears can be found in the Arctic Circle.
arctic adj. 北極的, 寒帶的, 極寒冷的
- The arctic conditions of the campsite are making the research progress slowly.
chapel n. 教堂(規模較小)
- The couple got married at a chapel in Las Vegas.
- The people of the town go to the little white chapel on the hill for Sunday services.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140108baa0d6de01d1805dfead2fadf24b1b63759669859e4eda99b0cf8cae462ab839139.wma
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
The World's Best Winter Festivals (2)
Sapporo Snow Festival
Every year 2 million visitors enjoy the winter festivities in Sapporo, Hokkaido. This internationally renowned winter festival got its start in 1950, when some local high school students built six snow statues in Odori Park. Since then, the festival has grown to include sprawling snow sculptures as well as a snow-sculpting contest. This contest draws competitors from all over the world, even from countries that get no snow at all! Visitors who enjoy other winter activities can participate in guided snowshoe trips, get an ice skating lesson, explore a historical village of Hokkaido and more.
Carnaval de Quebec
You've probably heard of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, or possibly Mardi Gras in the U.S. But in Canada, Quebec locals and visitors alike celebrate this festival before Lent Canadian-style - with lots of ice and snow! Everyone is greeted by the festival's mascot, Bonhomme Carnaval, a cheerful snowman. Festival-goers can enjoy exciting canoe races down the St. Lawrence River, a 1000-square-meter ice palace, sleigh rides and snow baths to name a few. And after all of that icy fun, everyone can warm up at one of the Carnival's three spas!
Grammar Gym
This internationally renowned winter festival got its start in 1950...
got its start: how something or someone began
- This youth program got its start at the local community center twenty years ago.
- The talented young actor got his start when he was assigned by his teacher to be in the school play.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Sleigh vs. Sled
sleigh 雪橇較大有座位, 有其他動力, 有動物托行
sled 較小雪橇, 孩童在雪地斜坡遊玩用
bobsled 雪車, 冬季運動項目
dog sled 狗拉雪橇,
Iditarod 狗拉雪橇比賽
Language Lab
renowned adj. 有名的, 有聲望的
/rɪˈnaʊnd/
known and admired by many people for some special quality or achievement
- Mark is a renowned biochemist.
Mark是有名的生化學家
- This restaurant is renowned for its creative food displays.
這家餐廳以極有創意的擺盤而聞名
renown n. 聲譽, 聲望
great fame and respect
- Peter is a jazz singer of great renown.
Peter是一位有名的jazz歌手
sprawl v. 不規則的延伸, 延展, 漫伸;
/ˈsprɑ:l/
to lie or sit with your arms and legs spread wide apart
- The sprawling metropolitan area contains over 2 million people.
這個不斷延展的大都會地區有超過200萬的居民
sprawl n. 延伸, 延展
a group of things (such as buildings) that cover an area in an uneven and ugly way — often + of
- The sprawl of the city extends to the beach.
這個城巿一路延伸到海灘
carnival n. 嘉年華會 or Carnival
a festival held before Lent that includes music and dancing [=count]
- The local carnival is held every year and lasts for days.
- The carnival atmosphere of the city attracts many visitors.
mascot n. 吉祥物
/ˈmæˌskɑ:t/
a person, animal, or object used as a symbol to represent a group (such as a sports team) and to bring good luck
- The football team's mascot is a brown bear.
- The coach's son is considered the mascot of the baseball team.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140107_9bdd4.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140107baad9e7df60357e377a62ca1af5b86ff8a47ec0f6f93fe9a4734a2f8dba577e9b61.wma
Every year 2 million visitors enjoy the winter festivities in Sapporo, Hokkaido. This internationally renowned winter festival got its start in 1950, when some local high school students built six snow statues in Odori Park. Since then, the festival has grown to include sprawling snow sculptures as well as a snow-sculpting contest. This contest draws competitors from all over the world, even from countries that get no snow at all! Visitors who enjoy other winter activities can participate in guided snowshoe trips, get an ice skating lesson, explore a historical village of Hokkaido and more.
Carnaval de Quebec
You've probably heard of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, or possibly Mardi Gras in the U.S. But in Canada, Quebec locals and visitors alike celebrate this festival before Lent Canadian-style - with lots of ice and snow! Everyone is greeted by the festival's mascot, Bonhomme Carnaval, a cheerful snowman. Festival-goers can enjoy exciting canoe races down the St. Lawrence River, a 1000-square-meter ice palace, sleigh rides and snow baths to name a few. And after all of that icy fun, everyone can warm up at one of the Carnival's three spas!
Grammar Gym
This internationally renowned winter festival got its start in 1950...
got its start: how something or someone began
- This youth program got its start at the local community center twenty years ago.
- The talented young actor got his start when he was assigned by his teacher to be in the school play.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Sleigh vs. Sled
sleigh 雪橇較大有座位, 有其他動力, 有動物托行
sled 較小雪橇, 孩童在雪地斜坡遊玩用
bobsled 雪車, 冬季運動項目
dog sled 狗拉雪橇,
Iditarod 狗拉雪橇比賽
Language Lab
renowned adj. 有名的, 有聲望的
/rɪˈnaʊnd/
known and admired by many people for some special quality or achievement
- Mark is a renowned biochemist.
Mark是有名的生化學家
- This restaurant is renowned for its creative food displays.
這家餐廳以極有創意的擺盤而聞名
renown n. 聲譽, 聲望
great fame and respect
- Peter is a jazz singer of great renown.
Peter是一位有名的jazz歌手
sprawl v. 不規則的延伸, 延展, 漫伸;
/ˈsprɑ:l/
to lie or sit with your arms and legs spread wide apart
- The sprawling metropolitan area contains over 2 million people.
這個不斷延展的大都會地區有超過200萬的居民
sprawl n. 延伸, 延展
a group of things (such as buildings) that cover an area in an uneven and ugly way — often + of
- The sprawl of the city extends to the beach.
這個城巿一路延伸到海灘
carnival n. 嘉年華會 or Carnival
a festival held before Lent that includes music and dancing [=count]
- The local carnival is held every year and lasts for days.
- The carnival atmosphere of the city attracts many visitors.
mascot n. 吉祥物
/ˈmæˌskɑ:t/
a person, animal, or object used as a symbol to represent a group (such as a sports team) and to bring good luck
- The football team's mascot is a brown bear.
- The coach's son is considered the mascot of the baseball team.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140107_9bdd4.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140107baad9e7df60357e377a62ca1af5b86ff8a47ec0f6f93fe9a4734a2f8dba577e9b61.wma
Monday, January 6, 2014
[Advanced] Move Over, Boys (1)
Young women are rapidly taking charge in the world of science fiction
by Nicole Sperling / © 2013, Los Angeles Times. Distributed by MCT Information Services.
Katniss Everdeen never intended to become an icon for a struggling people. Yet the scrappy, resourceful heroine at the heart of Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games trilogy, with her incomparable archery skills and defiant spirit, became a rare sort of pop-culture touch point precisely because she [was] embraced by a sometimes lost, sometimes achingly restless tribe: adolescents.
But the wily teen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, didn’t only inspire Collins’ readers and the filmgoers who turned up for Gary Ross’ movie adaptation of The Hunger Games. Her success has also helped fuel a continuing, voracious appetite in Hollywood for sci-fi tales featuring young women in empowered roles.
“I’m a very strong advocate of taking charge and being a wild woman,” said Shailene Woodley, who stars in [2014’s] Divergent. Set in a dystopian future Chicago, Veronica Roth’s series of novels center on a world where teens are herded together based on specific skills and attributes—when 16-year-old Beatrice Prior finds herself gifted in multiple areas, she’s labeled as an outcast, one who finds herself in a position to affect the future of humanity.
“I think it’s really profound that right now there are so many opportunities in film that depict young women as strong, courageous and taking care of themselves,” said Woodley, who [plays] Beatrice in the film.
Getting more attention
The Hunger Games and Divergent both [took] center stage at San Diego’s Comic-Con International, the annual pop-culture expo that routinely draws more than 130,000 people from around the world for a celebration of movies, TV and comic books. The convention does not reveal precise attendance figures; the demographics for the event skew male, though the number of women attending has increased every year for the last 10 to 15 years, with the ratio now 60 to 40 male-female.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140106ada29f594e58d428e19374ad569c3e6d7db1448417e6c77e8816521ac5a7be0e6ae.wma
by Nicole Sperling / © 2013, Los Angeles Times. Distributed by MCT Information Services.
Katniss Everdeen never intended to become an icon for a struggling people. Yet the scrappy, resourceful heroine at the heart of Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games trilogy, with her incomparable archery skills and defiant spirit, became a rare sort of pop-culture touch point precisely because she [was] embraced by a sometimes lost, sometimes achingly restless tribe: adolescents.
But the wily teen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, didn’t only inspire Collins’ readers and the filmgoers who turned up for Gary Ross’ movie adaptation of The Hunger Games. Her success has also helped fuel a continuing, voracious appetite in Hollywood for sci-fi tales featuring young women in empowered roles.
“I’m a very strong advocate of taking charge and being a wild woman,” said Shailene Woodley, who stars in [2014’s] Divergent. Set in a dystopian future Chicago, Veronica Roth’s series of novels center on a world where teens are herded together based on specific skills and attributes—when 16-year-old Beatrice Prior finds herself gifted in multiple areas, she’s labeled as an outcast, one who finds herself in a position to affect the future of humanity.
“I think it’s really profound that right now there are so many opportunities in film that depict young women as strong, courageous and taking care of themselves,” said Woodley, who [plays] Beatrice in the film.
Getting more attention
The Hunger Games and Divergent both [took] center stage at San Diego’s Comic-Con International, the annual pop-culture expo that routinely draws more than 130,000 people from around the world for a celebration of movies, TV and comic books. The convention does not reveal precise attendance figures; the demographics for the event skew male, though the number of women attending has increased every year for the last 10 to 15 years, with the ratio now 60 to 40 male-female.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140106ada29f594e58d428e19374ad569c3e6d7db1448417e6c77e8816521ac5a7be0e6ae.wma
The World's Best Winter Festivals (1)
Enjoy the season at these winter celebrations
全球最棒的冬季慶典 參加冬日慶典來享受這個季節 by Jo Wuertz
It’s January, which means it’s time for coats and mittens and chilly weather. While many of us are bracing ourselves for the cold weeks ahead, in some cities winter is the “hottest” season of all. So take a look at this list of awesome winter festivals.
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival
Located in northeast China with temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius, Harbin knows winter. Every year, from January 5 until the end of February, tourists flock to Harbin to experience its famous winter festival. The festival began officially in the 1980s, but even before then, Harbin enjoyed a thriving winter tourism season.
Tourists loved seeing the ice lanterns, a tradition which began during the Qing dynasty. Ice lanterns began as a simple tool to provide light in the bleak winter months, but today they are elaborate sculptures illuminated with colored lights. There’s plenty to see and do at this winter wonderland. Visitors can tour the world’s largest indoor ice and snow art museum at the Sun Island Park or wander around the frozen exhibitions at Zhaolin Park. Besides ice and snow sculptures, there are winter sports competitions to check out and fairs to explore.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Quotation Marks and Air Quotes
Quotation Marks 引號, 也可以稱為 Quotes
引號用來引用某人說的話,
還可以用來反諷 irony, 也就是跟字面上的意思不同
今天的話文: winter is the “hottest” season of all
hottest放在引號裡面, 表示這個字並不是用來表達熱,
這裡的熱是指熱鬧的意思
另外, 外國人講話的時候, 常常會舉雙手, 彎曲食指和中指,
這個動做叫做 Air Quotes, 代表的就是引號,
我們在說話的時候, 可以用引號來代表我們講的每一個字並不是字面上單純的意思
- He said he was "busy."
這裡的busy打一個air quotes就代表你根本不認為他真的busy, 是他自己認為的
Grammar Gym
The festival began officially in the 1980s, but even before then, Harbin enjoyed a thriving winter tourism season.
Language Lab
brace v. 為了面對不好的事, 或困難的事做好準備
to get ready for something difficult or unpleasant [no obj] (chiefly US) — usually + for
- People are bracing themselves for a very strong hurricane.
大家正在做強烈爆風來襲的預備
- You better brace yourself for the test results.
面對考試的結果, 你最好要有心裡準備
brace v. 支撐, 加固
to give added physical support or strength to (something)
- The poles of the bridge need to be braced.
這個橋的柱子需要被加固
awesome adj. 令人敬畏的; 令人驚奇的 [awe-驚嘆, 敬畏]
causing feelings of fear and wonder : causing feelings of awe
- I was amazed by the awesome view of the lake.
我被這個湖的絕佳美景給震撼了
- The director was awarded for his awesome achievements in the movie industry.
這位導演因為他在電影工業的驚人成就而獲獎
illuminate v. 照亮, 點亮
/ɪˈlu:məˌneɪt/
to make a light shine on something, or to fill a place with light
- The exterior of the building was illuminated by LED lights.
這棟建築物的外牆有LED燈的照明
illumination n.
lighting provided by a lamp, light etc
- The illumination in the classroom is too dark for students to study.
這間教室的照明對學生讀書來說太暗了
check out [phrasal verb] 看看, 試一試
to look at (something or someone) in order to find problems, mistakes, etc.
to look at (someone or something that is attractive or interesting)
— often used in the phrase check it out to direct someone's attention to something
- A book store just opened yesterday. Want to check it out?
有一間書店昨天開幕, 要不要去看一看?
to leave and pay for your room at a hotel, motel, etc. 旅館的退房, 出院
- We checked out of the hotel at noon.
我們中午十二點退房的
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140106baa7cfdebabefaa120e67b76352a5f1a1b131ee304baacebde5bc8044f4452839dd.wma
全球最棒的冬季慶典 參加冬日慶典來享受這個季節 by Jo Wuertz
It’s January, which means it’s time for coats and mittens and chilly weather. While many of us are bracing ourselves for the cold weeks ahead, in some cities winter is the “hottest” season of all. So take a look at this list of awesome winter festivals.
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival
Located in northeast China with temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius, Harbin knows winter. Every year, from January 5 until the end of February, tourists flock to Harbin to experience its famous winter festival. The festival began officially in the 1980s, but even before then, Harbin enjoyed a thriving winter tourism season.
Tourists loved seeing the ice lanterns, a tradition which began during the Qing dynasty. Ice lanterns began as a simple tool to provide light in the bleak winter months, but today they are elaborate sculptures illuminated with colored lights. There’s plenty to see and do at this winter wonderland. Visitors can tour the world’s largest indoor ice and snow art museum at the Sun Island Park or wander around the frozen exhibitions at Zhaolin Park. Besides ice and snow sculptures, there are winter sports competitions to check out and fairs to explore.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Quotation Marks and Air Quotes
Quotation Marks 引號, 也可以稱為 Quotes
引號用來引用某人說的話,
還可以用來反諷 irony, 也就是跟字面上的意思不同
今天的話文: winter is the “hottest” season of all
hottest放在引號裡面, 表示這個字並不是用來表達熱,
這裡的熱是指熱鬧的意思
另外, 外國人講話的時候, 常常會舉雙手, 彎曲食指和中指,
這個動做叫做 Air Quotes, 代表的就是引號,
我們在說話的時候, 可以用引號來代表我們講的每一個字並不是字面上單純的意思
- He said he was "busy."
這裡的busy打一個air quotes就代表你根本不認為他真的busy, 是他自己認為的
Grammar Gym
The festival began officially in the 1980s, but even before then, Harbin enjoyed a thriving winter tourism season.
Language Lab
brace v. 為了面對不好的事, 或困難的事做好準備
to get ready for something difficult or unpleasant [no obj] (chiefly US) — usually + for
- People are bracing themselves for a very strong hurricane.
大家正在做強烈爆風來襲的預備
- You better brace yourself for the test results.
面對考試的結果, 你最好要有心裡準備
brace v. 支撐, 加固
to give added physical support or strength to (something)
- The poles of the bridge need to be braced.
這個橋的柱子需要被加固
awesome adj. 令人敬畏的; 令人驚奇的 [awe-驚嘆, 敬畏]
causing feelings of fear and wonder : causing feelings of awe
- I was amazed by the awesome view of the lake.
我被這個湖的絕佳美景給震撼了
- The director was awarded for his awesome achievements in the movie industry.
這位導演因為他在電影工業的驚人成就而獲獎
illuminate v. 照亮, 點亮
/ɪˈlu:məˌneɪt/
to make a light shine on something, or to fill a place with light
- The exterior of the building was illuminated by LED lights.
這棟建築物的外牆有LED燈的照明
illumination n.
lighting provided by a lamp, light etc
- The illumination in the classroom is too dark for students to study.
這間教室的照明對學生讀書來說太暗了
check out [phrasal verb] 看看, 試一試
to look at (something or someone) in order to find problems, mistakes, etc.
to look at (someone or something that is attractive or interesting)
— often used in the phrase check it out to direct someone's attention to something
- A book store just opened yesterday. Want to check it out?
有一間書店昨天開幕, 要不要去看一看?
to leave and pay for your room at a hotel, motel, etc. 旅館的退房, 出院
- We checked out of the hotel at noon.
我們中午十二點退房的
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140106baa7cfdebabefaa120e67b76352a5f1a1b131ee304baacebde5bc8044f4452839dd.wma
Saturday, January 4, 2014
[Advanced] A Path to Success (2) (2014-01-04)
For example, in networking, the best information and contacts can come from a dormant tie — a relationship with an old contact that was allowed to lapse. Dormant ties are valuable, Grant writes, because they will have new and unfamiliar experiences and relationships to offer.
However, an old contact will know that a taker uses people and then discards them; a giver, on the other hand, only lets a relationship go dormant because of the normal vicissitudes of life in which it is impossible to keep in close contact with everyone. For that reason, Grant explains, old dormant contacts will be much more inclined to help a giver who suddenly calls after a long silence than any other kind of person.
Givers have an equal advantage in collaboration. Givers know better than most what it takes to work productively with others, writes Grant. By giving unconditionally to the team, they gain the respect of their colleagues and don’t attract the jealousy that other creative or successful people might. Givers recognize the contribution of the team — and if you don’t recognize the contribution of the team, according to Grant, history has shown that you will pay the consequences. Grant describes the decade-long lull in the career of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It was a time during which Wright completed only two projects. Grant attributes Wright’s unwillingness to collaborate as the primary cause of the architect’s downturn in output.
The Doormat Trap
Givers are equally better at evaluating and developing talent and clearly better at influencing people than takers or matchers. And yet, Grant writes, givers are also those who fail the most. Why do some givers succeed, whereas others find that giving stalls their careers or makes them less successful? The difference is what Grant calls being an “otherish” giver. Otherish givers, unlike selfless givers, do not give indiscriminately with no thought to their interests — they are not completely other-focused. Instead, they engage in “sincerity screening,” separating out the generous from those trying to take advantage.
Language Lab
dormant adj.
not doing anything at this time : not active but able to become active
doormat adj.
someone who is treated badly by other people and does not complain
lull n.
a brief time when an action or activity stops — usually + in
indiscriminately adv.
affecting or harming many people or things in a careless or unfair way
vicissitudes (pl n)
/vəˈsɪsəˌtu:dz/
the many changes or problems that happen over time — often + of
the continuous changes and problems that affect a situation or someone's life
- the vicissitudes of life
- the vicissitudes of married life
However, an old contact will know that a taker uses people and then discards them; a giver, on the other hand, only lets a relationship go dormant because of the normal vicissitudes of life in which it is impossible to keep in close contact with everyone. For that reason, Grant explains, old dormant contacts will be much more inclined to help a giver who suddenly calls after a long silence than any other kind of person.
Givers have an equal advantage in collaboration. Givers know better than most what it takes to work productively with others, writes Grant. By giving unconditionally to the team, they gain the respect of their colleagues and don’t attract the jealousy that other creative or successful people might. Givers recognize the contribution of the team — and if you don’t recognize the contribution of the team, according to Grant, history has shown that you will pay the consequences. Grant describes the decade-long lull in the career of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It was a time during which Wright completed only two projects. Grant attributes Wright’s unwillingness to collaborate as the primary cause of the architect’s downturn in output.
The Doormat Trap
Givers are equally better at evaluating and developing talent and clearly better at influencing people than takers or matchers. And yet, Grant writes, givers are also those who fail the most. Why do some givers succeed, whereas others find that giving stalls their careers or makes them less successful? The difference is what Grant calls being an “otherish” giver. Otherish givers, unlike selfless givers, do not give indiscriminately with no thought to their interests — they are not completely other-focused. Instead, they engage in “sincerity screening,” separating out the generous from those trying to take advantage.
Language Lab
dormant adj.
not doing anything at this time : not active but able to become active
doormat adj.
someone who is treated badly by other people and does not complain
lull n.
a brief time when an action or activity stops — usually + in
indiscriminately adv.
affecting or harming many people or things in a careless or unfair way
vicissitudes (pl n)
/vəˈsɪsəˌtu:dz/
the many changes or problems that happen over time — often + of
the continuous changes and problems that affect a situation or someone's life
- the vicissitudes of life
- the vicissitudes of married life
Winter Wonderland (2)
Despite these troubles, snow can also be exciting, especially if you love to ski. I remember when we went to Colorado for a ski camp years ago. We started by attending a beginners' class. We learned how to slide, stop, turn and get up after a fall.
The coach also introduced us to the gear. The boots were so heavy that I couldn't walk steadily. Then we learned how to use the poles to change direction or stop.
The beginners' class was full of kids under 8. They moved so fast and learned so quickly that we adults could hardly catch up. My husband was brave enough to try the challenging "black-diamond trail," which is usually steep and not groomed. As for me, I stayed on the beginners' hill for a little while. Then I went inside to sip my sweet hot chocolate. I sat back and enjoyed the natural beauty of the snow. It was a once-in-a-life time experience.
Info Cloud
美國州名來源
Connecticut 康乃迪克州(印第安語, 在一條長長的河流旁)
Vermont 佛蒙特州(法語, 綠色的山)
New Jersey 紐澤西州(源自Jersey island in English Channel)
Colorado 科羅拉多州(西班牙文, 被塗成紅色colored red, 因為有很多紅色石頭)
California 加利福尼亞州(一本 16 世紀西班牙文小說中的天堂)
Grammar Gym
As for me, I stayed on the beginners' hill for a little while.
as for me: for my part
- Everyone wanted to go out and play. As for me, I was happy to stay at home.
- My teammates all thought the proposal was a bad idea. As for me, I think we should give it a try.
Language Lab
ski v.
past tense and past participle skied, present participle skiing, third person singular skis
to move on skis for sport or in order to travel on snow or water
- Joyce went skiing with her family last weekend.
- Wesley skied a lot when he was in college.
ski n.
a long thin narrow piece of strong material, fastened under a small vehicle so that it can travel on snow
- These skis were made from an extra-light material.
steadily adv.
/ˈstɛdəli/ adverb [more steadily; most steadily]
- The racecar accelerated steadily.
- The tent held steadily even in the strong wind.
steady adj.
continuing or developing gradually or without stopping, and not likely to change
- The company's sales grew at a steady rate.
groom v.
to prepare someone for an important job or position in society by training them over a long period;
to take care of your own appearance by keeping your hair and clothes clean and tidy
- The ski runs have been groomed for the big tournament tomorrow.
- The girls spent hours grooming for the prom
sip v.
/ˈsɪp/
past tense and past participle sipped, present participle sipping
to drink something slowly, taking very small mouthfuls
- Annie sipped her coffee slowly because it was very hot.
sip n.
a very small amount of a drink
- Natalie took a sip of her tea to calm down.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140104_dd146.wmv
The coach also introduced us to the gear. The boots were so heavy that I couldn't walk steadily. Then we learned how to use the poles to change direction or stop.
The beginners' class was full of kids under 8. They moved so fast and learned so quickly that we adults could hardly catch up. My husband was brave enough to try the challenging "black-diamond trail," which is usually steep and not groomed. As for me, I stayed on the beginners' hill for a little while. Then I went inside to sip my sweet hot chocolate. I sat back and enjoyed the natural beauty of the snow. It was a once-in-a-life time experience.
Info Cloud
美國州名來源
Connecticut 康乃迪克州(印第安語, 在一條長長的河流旁)
Vermont 佛蒙特州(法語, 綠色的山)
New Jersey 紐澤西州(源自Jersey island in English Channel)
Colorado 科羅拉多州(西班牙文, 被塗成紅色colored red, 因為有很多紅色石頭)
California 加利福尼亞州(一本 16 世紀西班牙文小說中的天堂)
Grammar Gym
As for me, I stayed on the beginners' hill for a little while.
as for me: for my part
- Everyone wanted to go out and play. As for me, I was happy to stay at home.
- My teammates all thought the proposal was a bad idea. As for me, I think we should give it a try.
Language Lab
ski v.
past tense and past participle skied, present participle skiing, third person singular skis
to move on skis for sport or in order to travel on snow or water
- Joyce went skiing with her family last weekend.
- Wesley skied a lot when he was in college.
ski n.
a long thin narrow piece of strong material, fastened under a small vehicle so that it can travel on snow
- These skis were made from an extra-light material.
steadily adv.
/ˈstɛdəli/ adverb [more steadily; most steadily]
- The racecar accelerated steadily.
- The tent held steadily even in the strong wind.
steady adj.
continuing or developing gradually or without stopping, and not likely to change
- The company's sales grew at a steady rate.
groom v.
to prepare someone for an important job or position in society by training them over a long period;
to take care of your own appearance by keeping your hair and clothes clean and tidy
- The ski runs have been groomed for the big tournament tomorrow.
- The girls spent hours grooming for the prom
sip v.
/ˈsɪp/
past tense and past participle sipped, present participle sipping
to drink something slowly, taking very small mouthfuls
- Annie sipped her coffee slowly because it was very hot.
sip n.
a very small amount of a drink
- Natalie took a sip of her tea to calm down.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140104_dd146.wmv
Friday, January 3, 2014
Winter Wonderland (1)
What winter is really like
"Is it snowing?" That is the question my children often asked when we first moved to America. Growing up on a subtropical island, we had a fantasy about a snowy winter wonderland. We imagined the falling snow or a family sitting around their fireplace enjoying steaming hot chocolate. It seemed so cozy. In reality, snow can be really messy.
I can understand why kids love snow. They get two hours, a half day or a whole day off from school. Then the playtime begins. The kids build snowman, slide down hills on snowboards or have snowball fights.
For adults, it is not that much fun. Most cities and communities have snowplows to remove the snow from streets. They also spread salt mixed with sand to prevent ice on sidewalks and roadways. But cleaning our own driveway is such a bother. We have to shovel off the snow ourselves. If we don't, the icy surface can be dangerous.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Retronyms
Retronyms 重新創造的字(字意需被重新定義) [retro - 昔日的, 復古的]
hot chocolate:
chocolate 早期指熱可可, 現指巧克力磚或巧克力糖, 所以熱可可需要新的字來說明
snail mail/mail 原始的紙本郵件, 有別現今email, 較慢故稱snail
acoustic guitar/guitar 傳統吉他, 有別電子吉他
Grammar Gym
We have to shovel off the snow ourselves.
ourselves - reflexive pronoun 反身代名詞
myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, oneself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves
by ourselves:
to add emphasis and show subject alone and nothing or no one else is involved
- Since no one is around to help me, I will do this myself.
- The boss signed every Christmas card himself.
- Students in this internship program have to take care of every detail themselves.
Language Lab
subtropical adj. [sub-次要, 附屬]
relating to or living in an area that is close to tropical parts of the world
- We gradually got used the country's subtropical climate.
- This rare species of plant only grows in subtropical regions.
fantasy n.
the act of imagining something
- Greg indulges in fantasy occasionally.
- This kind of fantasy only happens in movies, not in real life.
something that is produced by the imagination : an idea about doing something that is far removed from normal reality [noncount]
- Many girls have a fantasy of meeting their Prince Charming when they grow up.
remove v. [re字首: away]
to move or take (something) away from a place
- The doctor removed the bullet from the cop's arm.
- As soon as the timer goes off, remove the cake from the oven.
shovel v.
to lift and throw (dirt, sand, snow, etc.) with a shovel
- It took us an hour to shovel the snow off our driveway.
- The boy shoveled all the food on this plate into his mouth.
n.
[count] : a tool with a long handle that is used for lifting and throwing dirt, sand, snow, etc.
- We need a shovel and a bucket to build sand castles.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140103_d79d4.wmv
"Is it snowing?" That is the question my children often asked when we first moved to America. Growing up on a subtropical island, we had a fantasy about a snowy winter wonderland. We imagined the falling snow or a family sitting around their fireplace enjoying steaming hot chocolate. It seemed so cozy. In reality, snow can be really messy.
I can understand why kids love snow. They get two hours, a half day or a whole day off from school. Then the playtime begins. The kids build snowman, slide down hills on snowboards or have snowball fights.
For adults, it is not that much fun. Most cities and communities have snowplows to remove the snow from streets. They also spread salt mixed with sand to prevent ice on sidewalks and roadways. But cleaning our own driveway is such a bother. We have to shovel off the snow ourselves. If we don't, the icy surface can be dangerous.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Retronyms
Retronyms 重新創造的字(字意需被重新定義) [retro - 昔日的, 復古的]
hot chocolate:
chocolate 早期指熱可可, 現指巧克力磚或巧克力糖, 所以熱可可需要新的字來說明
snail mail/mail 原始的紙本郵件, 有別現今email, 較慢故稱snail
acoustic guitar/guitar 傳統吉他, 有別電子吉他
Grammar Gym
We have to shovel off the snow ourselves.
ourselves - reflexive pronoun 反身代名詞
myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, oneself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves
by ourselves:
to add emphasis and show subject alone and nothing or no one else is involved
- Since no one is around to help me, I will do this myself.
- The boss signed every Christmas card himself.
- Students in this internship program have to take care of every detail themselves.
Language Lab
subtropical adj. [sub-次要, 附屬]
relating to or living in an area that is close to tropical parts of the world
- We gradually got used the country's subtropical climate.
- This rare species of plant only grows in subtropical regions.
fantasy n.
the act of imagining something
- Greg indulges in fantasy occasionally.
- This kind of fantasy only happens in movies, not in real life.
something that is produced by the imagination : an idea about doing something that is far removed from normal reality [noncount]
- Many girls have a fantasy of meeting their Prince Charming when they grow up.
remove v. [re字首: away]
to move or take (something) away from a place
- The doctor removed the bullet from the cop's arm.
- As soon as the timer goes off, remove the cake from the oven.
shovel v.
to lift and throw (dirt, sand, snow, etc.) with a shovel
- It took us an hour to shovel the snow off our driveway.
- The boy shoveled all the food on this plate into his mouth.
n.
[count] : a tool with a long handle that is used for lifting and throwing dirt, sand, snow, etc.
- We need a shovel and a bucket to build sand castles.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140103_d79d4.wmv
[Advanced] A Path to Success (1) 2014-01-03
Are you a giver, a taker or a matcher?
The world, according to Wharton professor Adam Grant, is filled with givers, takers and matchers. Takers are those who like to get more than they give. They tilt reciprocity — the mix of give and take — in their favor. Unlike takers, givers reflect a reciprocity style that is "other-focused": they focus more on what others need than what they need. The final category of Grant’s three reciprocity styles is the matcher, who strives to achieve a balance between giving and taking. In the workplace, matchers are common; they are willing to help somebody, but they want something in return.
On one hand, in a number of studies cited by Grant in his fascinating book Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success, those who are defined as givers appear to be the least successful in their fields. As Grant writes, "Across occupations, it appears that givers are just too caring, too trusting and too willing to sacrifice their own interests for the benefit of others." Studies of engineers in California, medical students in Belgium and salespeople in North Carolina all revealed the same pattern. The ranks of the least successful — the least effective engineers, the medical students with the poorest grades — were filled with people who, according to the study criteria, were defined as givers.
However, it’s also givers that are consistently ranked highest in their fields. It seems, as Grant puts it, that givers are both the "champs" and the "chumps" of the world. In Give and Take, Grant rehabilitates the givers, proving to his readers why giving is the best strategy to succeed. He also addresses the failures of some givers, revealing the flaws that caused their downfall.
Why Givers Succeed
Givers can have greater success than takers and matchers, according to Grant, because they approach interactions with others differently, especially relating to four domains: networking, collaborating, evaluating and influencing.
Language Lab
reciprocity n.
behavior in which two people or groups of people give each other help and advantages
rehabilitate v.
to return someone to a healthy or usual condition or way of living, or to return something to good condition
collaborate v.
to work together or with someone else for a special purpose
chump n.
a foolish person
domain n.
an area of interest or an area over which a person has control
The world, according to Wharton professor Adam Grant, is filled with givers, takers and matchers. Takers are those who like to get more than they give. They tilt reciprocity — the mix of give and take — in their favor. Unlike takers, givers reflect a reciprocity style that is "other-focused": they focus more on what others need than what they need. The final category of Grant’s three reciprocity styles is the matcher, who strives to achieve a balance between giving and taking. In the workplace, matchers are common; they are willing to help somebody, but they want something in return.
On one hand, in a number of studies cited by Grant in his fascinating book Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success, those who are defined as givers appear to be the least successful in their fields. As Grant writes, "Across occupations, it appears that givers are just too caring, too trusting and too willing to sacrifice their own interests for the benefit of others." Studies of engineers in California, medical students in Belgium and salespeople in North Carolina all revealed the same pattern. The ranks of the least successful — the least effective engineers, the medical students with the poorest grades — were filled with people who, according to the study criteria, were defined as givers.
However, it’s also givers that are consistently ranked highest in their fields. It seems, as Grant puts it, that givers are both the "champs" and the "chumps" of the world. In Give and Take, Grant rehabilitates the givers, proving to his readers why giving is the best strategy to succeed. He also addresses the failures of some givers, revealing the flaws that caused their downfall.
Why Givers Succeed
Givers can have greater success than takers and matchers, according to Grant, because they approach interactions with others differently, especially relating to four domains: networking, collaborating, evaluating and influencing.
Language Lab
reciprocity n.
behavior in which two people or groups of people give each other help and advantages
rehabilitate v.
to return someone to a healthy or usual condition or way of living, or to return something to good condition
collaborate v.
to work together or with someone else for a special purpose
chump n.
a foolish person
domain n.
an area of interest or an area over which a person has control
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Big Art Makes a Big Impression (2)
How many ducks are there?
In reality, there's more than one Rubber Duck. Hofman uses local teams to construct local versions of the duck because he believes that makes repairs easier. That's how Rubber Duck can appear in tow cities at once. Last fall one version was on a river in Pittsburgh while another one was docked at a pier in Kaohsiung! The Pittsburgh version was the standard 12 meters, but the Kaohsiung version stands 18 meters tall.
Other big works
Most of Hofman's other works are big, too, like his inflatable piece called Fat Monkey. Stretched out in a park in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the 15-meter-long monkey is covered with 10,000 brightly colored flip-flops. In addition, Steelman is an 11-meter-tall bear sculpture made of concrete. Hofman placed the bear in a neighborhood in Amsterdam to inspire the area's youth to be tough like bears! Hofman's work appeals to all ages. Regarding Rubber Duck, Hofman believes it can help adults reduce tension. As he says, "The rubber duck is soft, friendly and suitable for all ages!"
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: When Do We Use “Works”?
work/works work大部分都作不可數名詞, 部分時候可作可數名詞使用
1. Most of Hofman's other works are big. 當藝術品或文學作品
2. public works 政府公共工程
3. in the works 籌備中, 開發中(片語用) The project is still in the works
4. the works 全部, 所有的 pizza with the works 加上所有配料
Grammar Gym
Stretched out in a park in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the 15-meter-long monkey is covered with 10,000 brightly colored flip-flops.
1.The 15-meter-long monkey is stretched out in a park in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
2.The 15-meter-long monkey is covered with 10,000 brightly colored flip-flops.
[verb 1 in participle form], [subject] + [verb 2] combine two sentences
- Filled with delicious chocolate pudding, this pastry is the bakery's most famous item.
- Confused by the email, Lisa is not sure what she should do next.
Language Lab
construct v. [struce 字根 - 建造]
to build or make (something physical, such as a road, bridge, or building)
- The monument was constructed to commemorate the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War.
construction n.
[noncount] the act or process of building something (such as a house or road)
- The construction of the skyscraper took over five years.
repair v.
to put (something that is broken or damaged) back into good condition : fix
- The mechanic repaired my car's windshield wipers for free.
repair n.
the act or process of repairing something [noncount]
- The building is in need of serious repair.
- Your watch is beyond repair.
concrete n. [noncount]
a hard, strong material that is used for building and made by mixing cement, sand, and broken rocks with water
- Concrete is a commonly used building material.
- The concrete walls around the prison are six meters high.
concrete adj.
/kɑnˈkri:t/
definite and specific
- There's been no concrete evidence to charge this suspect.
tension n.
a nervous worried feeling that makes it impossible for you to relax
- Jeremy Lin always prays before each game to ease the tension.
- Kids can feel the tension between their parents when they are arguing.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140102_dd24e.wmv
In reality, there's more than one Rubber Duck. Hofman uses local teams to construct local versions of the duck because he believes that makes repairs easier. That's how Rubber Duck can appear in tow cities at once. Last fall one version was on a river in Pittsburgh while another one was docked at a pier in Kaohsiung! The Pittsburgh version was the standard 12 meters, but the Kaohsiung version stands 18 meters tall.
Other big works
Most of Hofman's other works are big, too, like his inflatable piece called Fat Monkey. Stretched out in a park in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the 15-meter-long monkey is covered with 10,000 brightly colored flip-flops. In addition, Steelman is an 11-meter-tall bear sculpture made of concrete. Hofman placed the bear in a neighborhood in Amsterdam to inspire the area's youth to be tough like bears! Hofman's work appeals to all ages. Regarding Rubber Duck, Hofman believes it can help adults reduce tension. As he says, "The rubber duck is soft, friendly and suitable for all ages!"
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: When Do We Use “Works”?
work/works work大部分都作不可數名詞, 部分時候可作可數名詞使用
1. Most of Hofman's other works are big. 當藝術品或文學作品
2. public works 政府公共工程
3. in the works 籌備中, 開發中(片語用) The project is still in the works
4. the works 全部, 所有的 pizza with the works 加上所有配料
Grammar Gym
Stretched out in a park in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the 15-meter-long monkey is covered with 10,000 brightly colored flip-flops.
1.The 15-meter-long monkey is stretched out in a park in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
2.The 15-meter-long monkey is covered with 10,000 brightly colored flip-flops.
[verb 1 in participle form], [subject] + [verb 2] combine two sentences
- Filled with delicious chocolate pudding, this pastry is the bakery's most famous item.
- Confused by the email, Lisa is not sure what she should do next.
Language Lab
construct v. [struce 字根 - 建造]
to build or make (something physical, such as a road, bridge, or building)
- The monument was constructed to commemorate the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War.
construction n.
[noncount] the act or process of building something (such as a house or road)
- The construction of the skyscraper took over five years.
repair v.
to put (something that is broken or damaged) back into good condition : fix
- The mechanic repaired my car's windshield wipers for free.
repair n.
the act or process of repairing something [noncount]
- The building is in need of serious repair.
- Your watch is beyond repair.
concrete n. [noncount]
a hard, strong material that is used for building and made by mixing cement, sand, and broken rocks with water
- Concrete is a commonly used building material.
- The concrete walls around the prison are six meters high.
concrete adj.
/kɑnˈkri:t/
definite and specific
- There's been no concrete evidence to charge this suspect.
tension n.
a nervous worried feeling that makes it impossible for you to relax
- Jeremy Lin always prays before each game to ease the tension.
- Kids can feel the tension between their parents when they are arguing.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140102_dd24e.wmv
[Advanced] Staying on Track (2) 2014-01-02
How to get back on track
Here's the real secret: Manage your expectations, and watch the labels you use. Don't ever expect to be totally on top of everything for very long. If you get into a nice rhythm and tell yourself that you'll stay totally on top of it this time, then you're just setting yourself up for major disappointment and you'll spend a lot of time and energy being upset instead of adapting to life. Expect challenges to your schedule, and focus on adapting better.
In terms of labels, many people think they've "failed" or "done it again" when they notice they've missed a few days or a few weeks. Yes, you have failed to be perfect, but perfection isn't the goal.
The most important thing to do in order to get back into fitness is to do something — anything — today. This is very easy advice to read but not so easy to actually do. Be mindful of how out of shape you can get in a few weeks. Today is [the day to start again], not the day to have the best workout of your life.
Be strategic
The second most important part of your comeback is to make a written plan for what you will do this week. (Don't go overboard on detail here.) Where will you do it? What days and times? This style of plan will increase the odds of follow-through by over 200 percent.
Be deliberate
The final thing to remember is that you do not need motivation. Motivation is a feeling — feelings are unpredictable and not dependable. Now that you're off routine you will not feel like it, and that doesn't matter one bit. Just show up, and get your body moving [and] the motivation will take care of itself in time.
Vocabulary Focus
adapt v.
to change your behavior so that it is easier to live in a particular place or situation
mindful adj.
ware of something that may be important — often + of;
pay attention
go overboard (idiom)
too do something too much, or to be too excited or eager about something
follow-through n.
the act of completing an action or proces
- He makes a lot of promises, but there's no follow-through. [=he does not do what he promises to do]
deliberate adj.
done or said in a way that is planned or intended : done or said on purpose
pathetic adj.
/pəˈθɛtɪk/
causing feelings of sadness and sympathy
momentum n. 動力
/moʊˈmɛntəm/
the strength or force that something has when it is moving
the strength or force that allows something to continue or to grow stronger or faster as time passes
- The company has had a successful year and hopes to maintain its momentum by introducing new products. - The campaign slowly gained/gathered momentum. [=the campaign slowly became more popular and successful]
- The movie loses momentum toward the end.
For further reading
fitness.com
Stick to your workout
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140102ada00246ee67888afc88906d85b00462996f434f834a49eb7c5a232884336dea536.wma
Here's the real secret: Manage your expectations, and watch the labels you use. Don't ever expect to be totally on top of everything for very long. If you get into a nice rhythm and tell yourself that you'll stay totally on top of it this time, then you're just setting yourself up for major disappointment and you'll spend a lot of time and energy being upset instead of adapting to life. Expect challenges to your schedule, and focus on adapting better.
In terms of labels, many people think they've "failed" or "done it again" when they notice they've missed a few days or a few weeks. Yes, you have failed to be perfect, but perfection isn't the goal.
The most important thing to do in order to get back into fitness is to do something — anything — today. This is very easy advice to read but not so easy to actually do. Be mindful of how out of shape you can get in a few weeks. Today is [the day to start again], not the day to have the best workout of your life.
Be strategic
The second most important part of your comeback is to make a written plan for what you will do this week. (Don't go overboard on detail here.) Where will you do it? What days and times? This style of plan will increase the odds of follow-through by over 200 percent.
Be deliberate
The final thing to remember is that you do not need motivation. Motivation is a feeling — feelings are unpredictable and not dependable. Now that you're off routine you will not feel like it, and that doesn't matter one bit. Just show up, and get your body moving [and] the motivation will take care of itself in time.
Vocabulary Focus
adapt v.
to change your behavior so that it is easier to live in a particular place or situation
mindful adj.
ware of something that may be important — often + of;
pay attention
go overboard (idiom)
too do something too much, or to be too excited or eager about something
follow-through n.
the act of completing an action or proces
- He makes a lot of promises, but there's no follow-through. [=he does not do what he promises to do]
deliberate adj.
done or said in a way that is planned or intended : done or said on purpose
pathetic adj.
/pəˈθɛtɪk/
causing feelings of sadness and sympathy
momentum n. 動力
/moʊˈmɛntəm/
the strength or force that something has when it is moving
the strength or force that allows something to continue or to grow stronger or faster as time passes
- The company has had a successful year and hopes to maintain its momentum by introducing new products. - The campaign slowly gained/gathered momentum. [=the campaign slowly became more popular and successful]
- The movie loses momentum toward the end.
For further reading
fitness.com
Stick to your workout
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140102ada00246ee67888afc88906d85b00462996f434f834a49eb7c5a232884336dea536.wma
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Big Art Makes a Big Impression (1)
Art in the form of a huge duck, a colorful monkey and a brave bear
Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman creates public art pieces that look like enormous toys. His most well-know piece, Rubber Duck, stands more than 10 meters tall and has appeared in cities around the world. When imagining the super-sized, inflatable duck, Hofman had a vision of a giant child throwing his toys around the world. After Rubber Duck started touring the world, Hofman admitted that he is - in fact - that rascal.
Warm welcome in Hong Kong
Since 2007, Hofman has "thrown" the Rubber Duck into the harbors of cities such as Auckland, New Zealand, and Osaka, Japan. But last May his giant yellow duck received an especially warm welcome in Hong Kong. Millions of spectators from across Asia went to Victoria Harbour to see the duck up close and take pictures. Hong Kong businesses created duck-inspired products and dishes in honor of their yellow visitor. And when Rubber Duck was ready to leave, thousands crowded the docks at Victoria Harbour to wave a teary-eyed farewell.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: American Spelling vs. British Spelling
Happy New Year!
Friends, welcome to another year of the Info Cloud.
Now, some of the more observant among you may have noticed an apparent mistake in our lesson today.
Wait a minute.
Did you say a mistake in Studio Classroom magazine on the first day of the year?
Where?
Ken, I said "an apparent mistake."
Our lesson mentions the harbors of cities such as Auckland, New Zealand and Osaka, Japan.
Notice how the word harbors is spelled: h-a-r-b-o-r-s.
But, further down in the lesson, we see Victoria Harbour, and this harbour is spelled: h-a-r-b-o-u-r.
There's an extra 'u' in there.
Oh, that's no mistake.
Friends, we're actually dealing with a difference between British and American spelling.
The -our sequence in some words often becomes -or in American spelling.
So, Americans spell harbor h-a-r-b-o-r, but the British spell it with an extra 'u'.
Since Hong Kong used to be a British colony, Victoria Harbour is spelled with the extra 'u' in there.
Now, this spelling difference comes from the French influence on English.
British English has a tendency to keep the spelling of many words of French origin.
But Americans try to spell words more closely to the way they sound phonetically, and they tend to omit some letters.
Words like "color," "flavor," and "honor" are some other examples.
Another difference is the British -re, which becomes -er in American English, like in the words "theater" and "center."
What's another difference, Steve?
Well Ken, the British, -ae/-oe/-oeu sequences become the simpler -e/-o/-eu sequences in the American version.
Like in the words leukaemia/leukemia, manoeuvre/maneuver, and mediaeval/medieval.
Victoria Harbour
harbor / harbour
color / colour
flavor / flavour
honor / honour
-re / -er
theater / theatre
center / centre
-ae/-oe/-oeu
-e/-o/-eu
maneuver / manoeuvre
leukemia/leukaemia
Grammar Gym
"As when Rubber Duck was ready to leave, thousands crowded the docks at Victoria Harbour to wave a teary-eyed farewell."
teary-eyed farewell
Teary-eyed: eyes are with tears
[adjective] - [noun]+ -ed
broken-hearted man
long-necked dinosaur
one-legged pirate
Language Lab
enormous adj.
very great in size or amount
- The company spent an enormous amount of time and money developing new products.
- The presidential suite's bathroom is enormous. It's equipped with a huge jacuzzi-style bathtub.
rascal n.
/ˈræskəl/
a person and especially a young person who causes trouble or does things that annoy people
- Theses rascals ruined my garden again.
- Sometimes my kids are little rascals.
a cruel or dishonest man
- Those rascals who broke the shop's windows were arrested.
spectator n. [spect 字根-看見]
/ˈspɛkˌteɪtɚ/
a person who watches an event, show, game, activity, etc., often as part of an audience
someone who is watching an event or game
audience
a group of people who come to watch and listen to someone speaking or performing in public
- The game drew over 20,000 spectators to the stadium.
- Many spectators gathered around the wounded driver, but no one helped him.
farewell n.
goodbye; the action of saying goodbye
- Brad bid us farewell and left for New York.
- Mom waved farewell to us from the train.
farewell adj.
done when someone is leaving, ending a career, etc.
- We held a farewell party for our boss.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140101_6b68c.wmv
Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman creates public art pieces that look like enormous toys. His most well-know piece, Rubber Duck, stands more than 10 meters tall and has appeared in cities around the world. When imagining the super-sized, inflatable duck, Hofman had a vision of a giant child throwing his toys around the world. After Rubber Duck started touring the world, Hofman admitted that he is - in fact - that rascal.
Warm welcome in Hong Kong
Since 2007, Hofman has "thrown" the Rubber Duck into the harbors of cities such as Auckland, New Zealand, and Osaka, Japan. But last May his giant yellow duck received an especially warm welcome in Hong Kong. Millions of spectators from across Asia went to Victoria Harbour to see the duck up close and take pictures. Hong Kong businesses created duck-inspired products and dishes in honor of their yellow visitor. And when Rubber Duck was ready to leave, thousands crowded the docks at Victoria Harbour to wave a teary-eyed farewell.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: American Spelling vs. British Spelling
Happy New Year!
Friends, welcome to another year of the Info Cloud.
Now, some of the more observant among you may have noticed an apparent mistake in our lesson today.
Wait a minute.
Did you say a mistake in Studio Classroom magazine on the first day of the year?
Where?
Ken, I said "an apparent mistake."
Our lesson mentions the harbors of cities such as Auckland, New Zealand and Osaka, Japan.
Notice how the word harbors is spelled: h-a-r-b-o-r-s.
But, further down in the lesson, we see Victoria Harbour, and this harbour is spelled: h-a-r-b-o-u-r.
There's an extra 'u' in there.
Oh, that's no mistake.
Friends, we're actually dealing with a difference between British and American spelling.
The -our sequence in some words often becomes -or in American spelling.
So, Americans spell harbor h-a-r-b-o-r, but the British spell it with an extra 'u'.
Since Hong Kong used to be a British colony, Victoria Harbour is spelled with the extra 'u' in there.
Now, this spelling difference comes from the French influence on English.
British English has a tendency to keep the spelling of many words of French origin.
But Americans try to spell words more closely to the way they sound phonetically, and they tend to omit some letters.
Words like "color," "flavor," and "honor" are some other examples.
Another difference is the British -re, which becomes -er in American English, like in the words "theater" and "center."
What's another difference, Steve?
Well Ken, the British, -ae/-oe/-oeu sequences become the simpler -e/-o/-eu sequences in the American version.
Like in the words leukaemia/leukemia, manoeuvre/maneuver, and mediaeval/medieval.
Victoria Harbour
harbor / harbour
color / colour
flavor / flavour
honor / honour
-re / -er
theater / theatre
center / centre
-ae/-oe/-oeu
-e/-o/-eu
maneuver / manoeuvre
leukemia/leukaemia
Grammar Gym
"As when Rubber Duck was ready to leave, thousands crowded the docks at Victoria Harbour to wave a teary-eyed farewell."
teary-eyed farewell
Teary-eyed: eyes are with tears
[adjective] - [noun]+ -ed
broken-hearted man
long-necked dinosaur
one-legged pirate
Language Lab
enormous adj.
very great in size or amount
- The company spent an enormous amount of time and money developing new products.
- The presidential suite's bathroom is enormous. It's equipped with a huge jacuzzi-style bathtub.
rascal n.
/ˈræskəl/
a person and especially a young person who causes trouble or does things that annoy people
- Theses rascals ruined my garden again.
- Sometimes my kids are little rascals.
a cruel or dishonest man
- Those rascals who broke the shop's windows were arrested.
spectator n. [spect 字根-看見]
/ˈspɛkˌteɪtɚ/
a person who watches an event, show, game, activity, etc., often as part of an audience
someone who is watching an event or game
audience
a group of people who come to watch and listen to someone speaking or performing in public
- The game drew over 20,000 spectators to the stadium.
- Many spectators gathered around the wounded driver, but no one helped him.
farewell n.
goodbye; the action of saying goodbye
- Brad bid us farewell and left for New York.
- Mom waved farewell to us from the train.
farewell adj.
done when someone is leaving, ending a career, etc.
- We held a farewell party for our boss.
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140101_6b68c.wmv
[Advanced] Staying on Track (1) 2014-01-01
How to stop being a sporadic exerciser
All of us have started an exercise plan before, and all of us have also fallen off an exercise plan before: Why do we yo-yo, and how do we stay on track over the long haul?
Why we fall off the exercise bandwagon
There are three main reasons people fall off the exercise bandwagon.The first is life. Unexpected things happen, schedules change,and we get knocked out of our routine. Or the realities of our schedules change so much that the old routine can't possibly work anymore. Life is often inconvenient and unpredictable.
Just remember that the busier you are and the more demands you have on your time, body and mind, the more you can't afford to neglect your fitness — you need the energy, health and peace of mind to really be there at work and at home. If you run yourself into the ground, or let yourself get stressed out and snippy with people, what good are you?
Feeling run-down
The second is injury or sickness. In terms of staying well, one of the biggest things to keep in mind is that working yourself into the ground will massively suppress your immune system. Working at 80 percent to 90 percent will get the same results as pushing to your actual limits, but when you go to your limits you are way more likely to hurt and sick.
Feeling perplexed
The third is frustration. A person isn't experiencing progress, or progress isn't happening at the desired pace. One of the big things too look out for here is your perception of your progress — we have folks who will drop two sizes, but don't really lose much weight; if they focus on the scale then they can get frustrated. However, if they focus on how good their clothes fit, then they're happy.
Vocabulary Focus
sporadic adj
/spəˈrædɪk/
happening often but not regularly : not constant or steady
over the long haul n.
a long period of time — usually used in the phrases for the long haul and over the long haul
bandwagon n.
/ˈbændˌwægən/
a popular activity, effort, cause, etc., that attracts growing support — usually singular
reality n. [plural realities]
the true situation that exists : the real situation
run (oneself) into the ground (idiom)
to make yourself very tired by working too much
snippy adj.
/ˈsnɪpi/
feeling or showing irritation;
sharp-tongued, improperly forward
snip v.
to cut (something) with scissors : to remove (something) by cutting with scissors [+ obj]
run-down adj.
in very bad condition because of age or lack of care
perplexed adj.
/pɚˈplɛkst/
unable to understand something clearly or to think clearly : confused
All of us have started an exercise plan before, and all of us have also fallen off an exercise plan before: Why do we yo-yo, and how do we stay on track over the long haul?
Why we fall off the exercise bandwagon
There are three main reasons people fall off the exercise bandwagon.The first is life. Unexpected things happen, schedules change,and we get knocked out of our routine. Or the realities of our schedules change so much that the old routine can't possibly work anymore. Life is often inconvenient and unpredictable.
Just remember that the busier you are and the more demands you have on your time, body and mind, the more you can't afford to neglect your fitness — you need the energy, health and peace of mind to really be there at work and at home. If you run yourself into the ground, or let yourself get stressed out and snippy with people, what good are you?
Feeling run-down
The second is injury or sickness. In terms of staying well, one of the biggest things to keep in mind is that working yourself into the ground will massively suppress your immune system. Working at 80 percent to 90 percent will get the same results as pushing to your actual limits, but when you go to your limits you are way more likely to hurt and sick.
Feeling perplexed
The third is frustration. A person isn't experiencing progress, or progress isn't happening at the desired pace. One of the big things too look out for here is your perception of your progress — we have folks who will drop two sizes, but don't really lose much weight; if they focus on the scale then they can get frustrated. However, if they focus on how good their clothes fit, then they're happy.
Vocabulary Focus
sporadic adj
/spəˈrædɪk/
happening often but not regularly : not constant or steady
over the long haul n.
a long period of time — usually used in the phrases for the long haul and over the long haul
bandwagon n.
/ˈbændˌwægən/
a popular activity, effort, cause, etc., that attracts growing support — usually singular
reality n. [plural realities]
the true situation that exists : the real situation
run (oneself) into the ground (idiom)
to make yourself very tired by working too much
snippy adj.
/ˈsnɪpi/
feeling or showing irritation;
sharp-tongued, improperly forward
snip v.
to cut (something) with scissors : to remove (something) by cutting with scissors [+ obj]
run-down adj.
in very bad condition because of age or lack of care
perplexed adj.
/pɚˈplɛkst/
unable to understand something clearly or to think clearly : confused
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