A degree of compassion
Another study found a link between stress and the amount of compassion people showed to others.
Researchers tracked 1,000 adults, their descriptions of the level of stress in their lives and the amount of time spent helping family members, friends or others. Death records were also compiled, and when added to the original data, the results were very surprising!
With each major stressful event, such as a family tragedy or financial crisis, the risk of dying increased by 30 percent. But for the group who spent time helping others, there was no increase in stress-related deaths, even for those who had faced their own personal tragedies.
Some researchers concluded that when we invest our lives in other people, we develop a kind of resilience. It gives us the ability to quickly become strong and healthy again, even after a major illness or disappointment.
Should we welcome stress?
According to Dr. McGonigal, " Chasing meaning is better for your health than trying to avoid discomfort ...
Go after what it is that creates meaning in your life and then trust yourself to handle the stress that follows."
Info Cloud
sympathy(同情心)/empathy(同理心)
pathos 希臘文, 表示感情
- Put yourself in his shoes.
Closer Look
Go after what it is that creates meaning in your life ...
What it is = that exact thing
- I wish I know what it is that is bothering her.
- When you're trying to work through a disagreement, focus on what it is that's important and don't get distracted by the unimportant things.
Language Lab
compassion n. 憐憫, 同情, 側懚之心
a strong feeling of sympathy for someone who is suffering, and a desire to help them
- Out of compassion, they helped the homeless children.
- Fiona has lots of compassion for stray dogs.
compile v. 彚編, 編製, 收集
to make a book, list, record etc, using different pieces of information, music etc
- Data needs to be compiled and analyzed to become useful.
- The report took two years to compile.
resilience n. 恢復能力, 適應力
the ability to become strong, happy, or successful again after a difficult situation or event
- The boy has shown great resilience in the tough environment.
- The lotion's formula is meant to restore resilience to the skin.
discomfort n. 不適, 不便, 不快, 窘迫, 不自在
a feeling of slight pain or of being physically uncomfortable:
- The discomfort of long flight can be helped through exercise.
- Erica's voice shows her discomfort and lack of self-confidence.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150131baaeffee6e7ba2e806443e60484ad7a35c924f63605275a5003e20b04326df8ed7d.wma
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
What’s Your Name Again?
How to remember people’s names
You see a familiar face across the room. You smile, wave... and draw a blank. What is that person's name? Forgetting someone's name is embarrassing. Whether it's for business or friendship, remembering someone's name makes the person feel important.
But how can you remember names? A man named Benjamin Levy wrote a book called Remember Every Name Every Time. He tells people to use the FACE method: Focus, ask, comment and employ.
Focus: Really look at the person's face.
Ask: Ask about the name. "Do you prefer Dave or David?"
Comment: Say something about the name. "I have an uncle named David."
Employ: Use the name right away. "Where do you work, David?"
Repeating a name helps, too. Say it in your head and out loud. "It's nice to meet you, David."
But if you do forget, don't be embarrassed to ask again. Say something nice first. "I've had a great time conversing with you. But I'm afraid I've forgotten your name."
Then when you hear it again, try these tips to remember it!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What’s Your Name Again? 別亂取英文名字
英文名字要取正常的, 才不會被大家笑
Language Lab
familiar adj.
someone or something that is familiar is well-known to you and easy to recognize:
- The girl's name sounds so familiar, but I don't recall who she is.
- Anyone who's familiar with Western art history would know this painter.
draw a blank
to be unsuccessful in finding information or the answer to a problem:
- I tried to remember where I put my wallet, but I drew a blank.
- The guy claimed that we had met before, but I just drew a blank.
embarrassed adj.
feeling nervous and uncomfortable and worrying about what people think of you, for example because you have to talk or sing in public, or because you have made a silly mistake:
- Lily felt so embarrassed when her parents found her boyfriend's love letters.
embarrassing adj.
making you feel ashamed, nervous, or uncomfortable:
- Forgetting lines is very embarrassing for a professional actor.
converse v.
to have a conversation with someone
- The people behind me were conversing in a strange dialect.
- The receptionist tried to converse with the foreigner in English but failed.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150128baa22b8d10b5b93d114051e0d3fad85b4f27863581ffbf45e74d22fe1b3dd4c82c8.wma
You see a familiar face across the room. You smile, wave... and draw a blank. What is that person's name? Forgetting someone's name is embarrassing. Whether it's for business or friendship, remembering someone's name makes the person feel important.
But how can you remember names? A man named Benjamin Levy wrote a book called Remember Every Name Every Time. He tells people to use the FACE method: Focus, ask, comment and employ.
Focus: Really look at the person's face.
Ask: Ask about the name. "Do you prefer Dave or David?"
Comment: Say something about the name. "I have an uncle named David."
Employ: Use the name right away. "Where do you work, David?"
Repeating a name helps, too. Say it in your head and out loud. "It's nice to meet you, David."
But if you do forget, don't be embarrassed to ask again. Say something nice first. "I've had a great time conversing with you. But I'm afraid I've forgotten your name."
Then when you hear it again, try these tips to remember it!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What’s Your Name Again? 別亂取英文名字
英文名字要取正常的, 才不會被大家笑
Language Lab
familiar adj.
someone or something that is familiar is well-known to you and easy to recognize:
- The girl's name sounds so familiar, but I don't recall who she is.
- Anyone who's familiar with Western art history would know this painter.
draw a blank
to be unsuccessful in finding information or the answer to a problem:
- I tried to remember where I put my wallet, but I drew a blank.
- The guy claimed that we had met before, but I just drew a blank.
embarrassed adj.
feeling nervous and uncomfortable and worrying about what people think of you, for example because you have to talk or sing in public, or because you have made a silly mistake:
- Lily felt so embarrassed when her parents found her boyfriend's love letters.
embarrassing adj.
making you feel ashamed, nervous, or uncomfortable:
- Forgetting lines is very embarrassing for a professional actor.
converse v.
to have a conversation with someone
- The people behind me were conversing in a strange dialect.
- The receptionist tried to converse with the foreigner in English but failed.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150128baa22b8d10b5b93d114051e0d3fad85b4f27863581ffbf45e74d22fe1b3dd4c82c8.wma
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Emma Stone Lets Her Hair Down (1) (2)
One star’s search for calm
Red
The brown hair didn't last too long. The producer of her first film asked Stone to change to red, now her signature look. Her red hair stayed for her first lead role in comedy Easy A though she hardly kept from tearing it out. She felt such pressure making the film that she has not yet watched it. Stone experienced a panic attack on set when lifted in the air by Ryan Gosling in romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love. Perhaps that convinced her to try drama instead with the hit film The Help.
Back to Blond
Stone returned to her original hair color to play blond Gwen Stacy in The Amazing Spider-Man. In fact, loyal comic book fans may have taken to the streets had she not. But Stone finds calm in understanding that this moment is no greater than when she first walked onstage as a kid. "My great goal in life is to try to remember that everything is of equal value," she says. Blond or brown, high or low, Stone is learning to let her hair down.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Signature vs. Autograph 別再向名人索取signature
signature 簽名(寫信, 信用卡, 申請表格...)
autograph 名星的簽名
Closer Look
She felt such pressure making the film...
[Subject] felt such [something] [doing something].
- Billy felt such satisfaction helping out at the animal shelter.
- Carla felt such anxiety getting ready to move to another city.
Language Lab
producer n.
someone who is in charge of making and usually providing the money for a play, movie, record, etc.
- The leading man of the movie is also one of the co-producers.
produce v.
- It took a great deal of money and a lot of team work to produce such an amazing musical.
convince v.
to cause (someone) to believe that something is true
- Nothing and nobody can convince her to quit singing.
convincing adj.
causing someone to believe that something is true or certain
- The evidence the defense lawyer provided was not very convincing.
comic book n.
- Howard has a great collection of superhero comic books.
comics n.
a magazine that is made up of a series of comic strips — often used as comic-book before another noun
- Michael loves to read "Superman" comics even though he's already an adult.
take to the streets 走上街頭 抗議
- Angry workers took to the streets because the owners of the factories refused to raise their salaries.
- Thousands of people took to the streets to protest against the new policy.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150126baa60a603e58c40210876e8c21589c35926a29471eecad5650e61ff5869b26d4c17.wma
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150127baab673b09af876061258a320327baae2c98fc07c114417075facfd451983c67383.wma
Red
The brown hair didn't last too long. The producer of her first film asked Stone to change to red, now her signature look. Her red hair stayed for her first lead role in comedy Easy A though she hardly kept from tearing it out. She felt such pressure making the film that she has not yet watched it. Stone experienced a panic attack on set when lifted in the air by Ryan Gosling in romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love. Perhaps that convinced her to try drama instead with the hit film The Help.
Back to Blond
Stone returned to her original hair color to play blond Gwen Stacy in The Amazing Spider-Man. In fact, loyal comic book fans may have taken to the streets had she not. But Stone finds calm in understanding that this moment is no greater than when she first walked onstage as a kid. "My great goal in life is to try to remember that everything is of equal value," she says. Blond or brown, high or low, Stone is learning to let her hair down.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Signature vs. Autograph 別再向名人索取signature
signature 簽名(寫信, 信用卡, 申請表格...)
autograph 名星的簽名
Closer Look
She felt such pressure making the film...
[Subject] felt such [something] [doing something].
- Billy felt such satisfaction helping out at the animal shelter.
- Carla felt such anxiety getting ready to move to another city.
Language Lab
producer n.
someone who is in charge of making and usually providing the money for a play, movie, record, etc.
- The leading man of the movie is also one of the co-producers.
produce v.
- It took a great deal of money and a lot of team work to produce such an amazing musical.
convince v.
to cause (someone) to believe that something is true
- Nothing and nobody can convince her to quit singing.
convincing adj.
causing someone to believe that something is true or certain
- The evidence the defense lawyer provided was not very convincing.
comic book n.
- Howard has a great collection of superhero comic books.
comics n.
a magazine that is made up of a series of comic strips — often used as comic-book before another noun
- Michael loves to read "Superman" comics even though he's already an adult.
take to the streets 走上街頭 抗議
- Angry workers took to the streets because the owners of the factories refused to raise their salaries.
- Thousands of people took to the streets to protest against the new policy.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150126baa60a603e58c40210876e8c21589c35926a29471eecad5650e61ff5869b26d4c17.wma
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150127baab673b09af876061258a320327baae2c98fc07c114417075facfd451983c67383.wma
Monday, January 26, 2015
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Winter in Iceland (2)
4. Explore Reykjavik.
Winter has little impact on the number of activities you can enjoy in Iceland's capital. Learn about Iceland's Viking past at Reykjavik 871 (they have the best collection in town) or the National Museum. Get to know the city on a guided bike or Segway tour. And ward off the cold by "coffee cupping," or tasting various kinds of coffee, at any of the dozens of small cafes in town.
5. Take a dip.
No matter what time of year you go, your trip to Iceland is not complete without a soak in one of the piping hot geothermal pools.
This is the Icelandic equivalent of a hot spring. Even when snow is falling, you'll find Icelanders outdoors, enjoying a relaxing dip in one of these pools. One of the most famous is Blue Lagoon, a spa that boasts pools, steam rooms, caves and a restaurant.
Come for the thinner crowds and cheaper off-season prices, and stay for the spectacular natural wonders around the island. Although Iceland may be an unusual choice for a winter vacation, its unexpected charms will make this a trip you'll want to take again!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Pronouncing “The”教學主題: The的發音
定冠詞 the
1. /ði/ before vowel sounds
2. /ˈðiː/ when said with emphasis
3. /ðə/ before consonant sounds
Closer Look
"your trip to Iceland is not complete without a soak in one of the piping hot geothermal pools."
[Subject] is not complete without [something].
- Your Roman holiday is not complete without a taste of gelato.
- Your tour through this university is not complete without a peek inside its famous library.
Language Lab
ward off phrasal verb
to do something to try to protect yourself from something bad, such as illness, danger, or attack:
- This app can ward off unwanted calls.
- Have a cup of hot chicken soup; it will ward off the cold right away.
geothermal adj.
/ˌʤiːjoʊˈθɚməl/
relating to or coming from the heat inside the earth:
- Many houses in this area use geothermal energy for their heating systems.
- The geothermal condition of the volcano is being monitored by a research team.
equivalent n.
something that has the same value, purpose, job etc as something else:
- This position requires a double degree or its equivalent.
equivalent adj.
equivalent to
- This amount of exercise is equivalent to running three miles.
unexpected adj.
used to describe something that is surprising because you were not expecting it:
- The unexpected visit from my parents caught me by surprise.
unexpectedly adv.
- The raise came unexpectedly, but actually at a really good time.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150124baa9c995e77bcd04f437e95b8eff8e174c1c206fb1f0a1e87946dfadbaaae9790fe.wma
Winter has little impact on the number of activities you can enjoy in Iceland's capital. Learn about Iceland's Viking past at Reykjavik 871 (they have the best collection in town) or the National Museum. Get to know the city on a guided bike or Segway tour. And ward off the cold by "coffee cupping," or tasting various kinds of coffee, at any of the dozens of small cafes in town.
5. Take a dip.
No matter what time of year you go, your trip to Iceland is not complete without a soak in one of the piping hot geothermal pools.
This is the Icelandic equivalent of a hot spring. Even when snow is falling, you'll find Icelanders outdoors, enjoying a relaxing dip in one of these pools. One of the most famous is Blue Lagoon, a spa that boasts pools, steam rooms, caves and a restaurant.
Come for the thinner crowds and cheaper off-season prices, and stay for the spectacular natural wonders around the island. Although Iceland may be an unusual choice for a winter vacation, its unexpected charms will make this a trip you'll want to take again!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Pronouncing “The”教學主題: The的發音
定冠詞 the
1. /ði/ before vowel sounds
2. /ˈðiː/ when said with emphasis
3. /ðə/ before consonant sounds
Closer Look
"your trip to Iceland is not complete without a soak in one of the piping hot geothermal pools."
[Subject] is not complete without [something].
- Your Roman holiday is not complete without a taste of gelato.
- Your tour through this university is not complete without a peek inside its famous library.
Language Lab
ward off phrasal verb
to do something to try to protect yourself from something bad, such as illness, danger, or attack:
- This app can ward off unwanted calls.
- Have a cup of hot chicken soup; it will ward off the cold right away.
geothermal adj.
/ˌʤiːjoʊˈθɚməl/
relating to or coming from the heat inside the earth:
- Many houses in this area use geothermal energy for their heating systems.
- The geothermal condition of the volcano is being monitored by a research team.
equivalent n.
something that has the same value, purpose, job etc as something else:
- This position requires a double degree or its equivalent.
equivalent adj.
equivalent to
- This amount of exercise is equivalent to running three miles.
unexpected adj.
used to describe something that is surprising because you were not expecting it:
- The unexpected visit from my parents caught me by surprise.
unexpectedly adv.
- The raise came unexpectedly, but actually at a really good time.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150124baa9c995e77bcd04f437e95b8eff8e174c1c206fb1f0a1e87946dfadbaaae9790fe.wma
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Internship or Part-time Job (1)
Which type of work experience is better?
Hi, Frank! Are you planning to go to the internship fair on campus tomorrow?
No, I don't have time. I have an interview tomorrow for a part-time job.
Why would you want a part-time job?
Internships are much more profitable.
Profitable? If you ask me, internship are a waste of time. Most are unpaid. Why would I want to work for free?
You're not working for free.
You're gaining valuable experience that can help you get a high-paying job in your field in the future.
That might be true to some extent, but I would rather get paid now for that experience. I need to be able to pay my rent and cover my living expenses.
But there are scholarships to cover those sorts of things. Or you could just get a student loan and pay it back later.
That might be an option for some people, but I don't want to be in debt when I graduate.
I can understand that. But the specialized experience from an internship will make finding a job much easier once you're out of school. Having working experience sets you apart from the other job applicants.
In that case, it's a good thing that the part-time position I'm applying for is in my field.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Rent vs. Rental (Rent 和 Rental的差別)
rental 可當名詞或形容詞
名詞中的一項定議指租金, 但美國租金用的是rent
房租以外的租金叫做rental fee,
rental 在美國像是出租的車子叫做 rental car (租來的車子)
Closer Look
But the specialized experience from an internship will make finding a job much easier once you're out of school.
1. subject: The specialized experience, and it's from an internship.
2. what will it do: make "finding a job" much easier
3. when: once you're out of school
[Something] will make [an activity] much easier [at a certain time].
- This metro card will make catching public transportation much easier during rush hour.
- This new kitchenware will make cooking for the family much easier on a busy weekday evening.
Language Lab
internship n.
a job that lasts for a short time, that someone, especially a student, does in order to gain experience
- Ronald's internship will be at the L.A. County Hospital.
intern n.
someone who has nearly finished training as a doctor and is working in a hospital;
someone, especially a student, who works for a short time in a particular job in order to gain experience;
- The interns need to check on their patients periodically.
profitable adj.
producing a profit or a useful result
- Every one is trying to get this profitable contract.
- Matthew makes profitable use of his free time by doing volunteer work.
to some extent
used to say how true something is or how great an effect or change is
- The idea is, to some extent, unrealistic.
- Her writing, to some extent, expresses what she really values in her life.
applicant n.
someone who has formally asked, usually in writing, for a job, university place etc
- All the applicants for the position need to submit their ID cards.
apply v.
- Rita applied to several Ivy League universities, and she's still waiting for the results.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150121baa93977f3a7b597dc5da4a7ba6e2e94209b14f993aaceb04baf852e9009edff4b8.wma
Hi, Frank! Are you planning to go to the internship fair on campus tomorrow?
No, I don't have time. I have an interview tomorrow for a part-time job.
Why would you want a part-time job?
Internships are much more profitable.
Profitable? If you ask me, internship are a waste of time. Most are unpaid. Why would I want to work for free?
You're not working for free.
You're gaining valuable experience that can help you get a high-paying job in your field in the future.
That might be true to some extent, but I would rather get paid now for that experience. I need to be able to pay my rent and cover my living expenses.
But there are scholarships to cover those sorts of things. Or you could just get a student loan and pay it back later.
That might be an option for some people, but I don't want to be in debt when I graduate.
I can understand that. But the specialized experience from an internship will make finding a job much easier once you're out of school. Having working experience sets you apart from the other job applicants.
In that case, it's a good thing that the part-time position I'm applying for is in my field.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Rent vs. Rental (Rent 和 Rental的差別)
rental 可當名詞或形容詞
名詞中的一項定議指租金, 但美國租金用的是rent
房租以外的租金叫做rental fee,
rental 在美國像是出租的車子叫做 rental car (租來的車子)
Closer Look
But the specialized experience from an internship will make finding a job much easier once you're out of school.
1. subject: The specialized experience, and it's from an internship.
2. what will it do: make "finding a job" much easier
3. when: once you're out of school
[Something] will make [an activity] much easier [at a certain time].
- This metro card will make catching public transportation much easier during rush hour.
- This new kitchenware will make cooking for the family much easier on a busy weekday evening.
Language Lab
internship n.
a job that lasts for a short time, that someone, especially a student, does in order to gain experience
- Ronald's internship will be at the L.A. County Hospital.
intern n.
someone who has nearly finished training as a doctor and is working in a hospital;
someone, especially a student, who works for a short time in a particular job in order to gain experience;
- The interns need to check on their patients periodically.
profitable adj.
producing a profit or a useful result
- Every one is trying to get this profitable contract.
- Matthew makes profitable use of his free time by doing volunteer work.
to some extent
used to say how true something is or how great an effect or change is
- The idea is, to some extent, unrealistic.
- Her writing, to some extent, expresses what she really values in her life.
applicant n.
someone who has formally asked, usually in writing, for a job, university place etc
- All the applicants for the position need to submit their ID cards.
apply v.
- Rita applied to several Ivy League universities, and she's still waiting for the results.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150121baa93977f3a7b597dc5da4a7ba6e2e94209b14f993aaceb04baf852e9009edff4b8.wma
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Tipping Tips (2)
Europe
Tipping customs in Europe vary from country to country. In France, waiters rarely receive tips. The cost of service is included in the bill. Many English restaurants also include a service charge. But those that don't expect customers to tip 10 to 15 percent. In Germany, there is no service charge, so a 10 to 15 percent tip is appropriate. Make sure you tip in cash, though, so the money gets to your waiter. In most of Europe, porters, guides and housekeepers also expect tips.
Asia
In Southeast Asia, tips are not usually required. But people will appreciate them if you choose to give them. However, that's not true everywhere in Asia. If you give waiters tips in Japan or China, they might be offended! Restaurant and hotel staff work hard to make your trip more enjoyable. So make sure you thank them - in the way that fits their culture.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Linguistic Diversity 語言多樣性
亞洲有2300多種語言
非洲有2100種
歐洲最少只有不到300種
山和河流會造成語言的多少
Language Lab
vary v. 改變, 有差異
if several things of the same type vary, they are all different from each other
- The effect of the treatment varies from individual to individual.
- The teacher varies her teaching strategies to meet the needs of her students.
various adj. 各種的
if there are various things, there are several different types of that thing:
- The dancer has mastered various dancing styles.
service charge n. 服務費
an amount of money that is added to a bill in a restaurant as an extra charge for the service of the waiters
- In Japan, the service charge is included in the bill.
- A minimum 10% service charge is common in this country.
offend v. 冒犯, 得罪
- The pop singer's rude comments offended everyone present.
- If you refuse to eat the food, you would offend the host.
offensive adj. 冒犯人的, 無禮的
- He needs to apologize for his offensive behavior.
enjoyable adj. 令人愉快的, 快樂的
- We will try our best to make sure you have an enjoyable stay in our hotel.
- The party is much more enjoyable than I expected.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150120baab5adfd7578ff1d354227f22eaa062d59f0af3bde5cc0f121c8d9491418b5ce2c.wma
Tipping customs in Europe vary from country to country. In France, waiters rarely receive tips. The cost of service is included in the bill. Many English restaurants also include a service charge. But those that don't expect customers to tip 10 to 15 percent. In Germany, there is no service charge, so a 10 to 15 percent tip is appropriate. Make sure you tip in cash, though, so the money gets to your waiter. In most of Europe, porters, guides and housekeepers also expect tips.
Asia
In Southeast Asia, tips are not usually required. But people will appreciate them if you choose to give them. However, that's not true everywhere in Asia. If you give waiters tips in Japan or China, they might be offended! Restaurant and hotel staff work hard to make your trip more enjoyable. So make sure you thank them - in the way that fits their culture.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Linguistic Diversity 語言多樣性
亞洲有2300多種語言
非洲有2100種
歐洲最少只有不到300種
山和河流會造成語言的多少
Language Lab
vary v. 改變, 有差異
if several things of the same type vary, they are all different from each other
- The effect of the treatment varies from individual to individual.
- The teacher varies her teaching strategies to meet the needs of her students.
various adj. 各種的
if there are various things, there are several different types of that thing:
- The dancer has mastered various dancing styles.
service charge n. 服務費
an amount of money that is added to a bill in a restaurant as an extra charge for the service of the waiters
- In Japan, the service charge is included in the bill.
- A minimum 10% service charge is common in this country.
offend v. 冒犯, 得罪
- The pop singer's rude comments offended everyone present.
- If you refuse to eat the food, you would offend the host.
offensive adj. 冒犯人的, 無禮的
- He needs to apologize for his offensive behavior.
enjoyable adj. 令人愉快的, 快樂的
- We will try our best to make sure you have an enjoyable stay in our hotel.
- The party is much more enjoyable than I expected.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150120baab5adfd7578ff1d354227f22eaa062d59f0af3bde5cc0f121c8d9491418b5ce2c.wma
Monday, January 19, 2015
Tipping Tips (1)
Tipping customs in different parts of the world
You're taking a trip around the world!
You've got money for food, transportation and hotels. But in some countries, you'll need extra cash to tip people who help you. How much should you give?
North America
In the U.S. and Canada, failing to tip is extremely rude. Waiters and waitresses often earn low wages, so they rely on tips. Give them at least 15 percent of the cost of your meal before tax. If the service is really good, tip 20 percent.
It's common to give porters in hotels $1 or $2 for each bag they carry. You should also tip hotel housekeepers, tour guides and taxi drivers.
Africa
In most African countries, tip waiters 10 percent of the bill. But in South Africa, give them 15 percent. In hotels, the concierge may offer services such as booking show tickets. For theses services, give the concierge a tip in advance. And don't forget to tip porters and taxi drivers.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: How to Increase a Tip (多得小費的小撇步)
盤子上放糖果, 拍肩,畫笑臉, 但服務生要是女生
Closer Look
In the U.S. and Canada, failing to tip is extremely rude.
In [location], failing to [verb] is [description].
- In many parts of Asia, failing to take off your shoes when you go into someone's home is not polite.
- In Mary's company, failing to attend the end-of-the year party is not a good idea.
Language Lab
transportation n.
- The hotel provides free transportation from the hotel to the airport.
- The public transportation in this city is quite convenient and economical.
extremely adv.
very
- The job is extremely demanding, but interesting.
extreme adj.
- The police decided to use extreme measures to capture the cold-blooded killers.
porter n.
a person whose job is to carry bags or luggage at a hotel, airport, etc.
- We tipped the porters at the airport $2.00 for each piece of luggage.
- The porter at the hotel brought my bags to my room.
concierge n.
/ˌkɑːnsiˈeɚʒ/
an employee at a hotel whose job is to provide help and information to the people staying at the hotel
- Please ask the concierge to arrange our transportation downtown.
- The concierge here is professionally trained and provides excellent service.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150119baae5fcad5417207262bef217c1af8874457c48e8ea9ed220a798a189404351fd21.wma
You're taking a trip around the world!
You've got money for food, transportation and hotels. But in some countries, you'll need extra cash to tip people who help you. How much should you give?
North America
In the U.S. and Canada, failing to tip is extremely rude. Waiters and waitresses often earn low wages, so they rely on tips. Give them at least 15 percent of the cost of your meal before tax. If the service is really good, tip 20 percent.
It's common to give porters in hotels $1 or $2 for each bag they carry. You should also tip hotel housekeepers, tour guides and taxi drivers.
Africa
In most African countries, tip waiters 10 percent of the bill. But in South Africa, give them 15 percent. In hotels, the concierge may offer services such as booking show tickets. For theses services, give the concierge a tip in advance. And don't forget to tip porters and taxi drivers.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: How to Increase a Tip (多得小費的小撇步)
盤子上放糖果, 拍肩,畫笑臉, 但服務生要是女生
Closer Look
In the U.S. and Canada, failing to tip is extremely rude.
In [location], failing to [verb] is [description].
- In many parts of Asia, failing to take off your shoes when you go into someone's home is not polite.
- In Mary's company, failing to attend the end-of-the year party is not a good idea.
Language Lab
transportation n.
- The hotel provides free transportation from the hotel to the airport.
- The public transportation in this city is quite convenient and economical.
extremely adv.
very
- The job is extremely demanding, but interesting.
extreme adj.
- The police decided to use extreme measures to capture the cold-blooded killers.
porter n.
a person whose job is to carry bags or luggage at a hotel, airport, etc.
- We tipped the porters at the airport $2.00 for each piece of luggage.
- The porter at the hotel brought my bags to my room.
concierge n.
/ˌkɑːnsiˈeɚʒ/
an employee at a hotel whose job is to provide help and information to the people staying at the hotel
- Please ask the concierge to arrange our transportation downtown.
- The concierge here is professionally trained and provides excellent service.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150119baae5fcad5417207262bef217c1af8874457c48e8ea9ed220a798a189404351fd21.wma
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Friday, January 16, 2015
Lacrosse – The Fastest Game on Two Feet (1)
Why is this sport attracting new fans and players at a rapid pace?
On a field roughly the size of an American football field, a player wearing a helmet dodges a defender. He than swings a stick with a net on its end toward the goal. This sweeping motion sends a rubber ball flying from the net past a goalkeeper for a score.
The player -- pumping his fists in celebration -- has just scored a goal in lacrosse, a sport that has elements of hockey, soccer and American
in which new participants quickly find themselves hooked.
Lacrosse basics
In men's lacrosse, two teams of 10 players compete over four periods lasting 15 minutes each. Other than the goalkeeper, each team fields three attackmen, three mid-fielders and three defensemen. As in soccer, players cannot touch the ball with their hands. So, players use their stick, called a crosse, to keep the ball in play. They do this by cradling the ball in the net, called a head, on the end of their stick while darting across the field.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Sporting Venue Names教學主題: 球場大不同
不同的球類有不同的球場名稱,
大型的戶外球場叫做field
golf的球場叫做 course
小型或有網子或室內的球場叫做court
溜冰場rink
Language Lab
defender n.
one of the players in a game such as football who have to defend their team's goal from the opposing team:
- John successfully ran past the defenders and scored.
someone who defends a particular idea, belief, person etc:
- Susan is a passionate defender of women's rights.
participant n.
someone who is taking part in an activity or event
- All the participants attending the training course will receive a certificate.
participate v.
to take part in an activity or event:
- Every member of the team needs to participate in the discussion.
field v.
if you field a team, an army etc, they represent you or fight for you in a competition, election, or war:
- The coach fielded his best players for yesterday's game.
- The country fielded their strongest athletes to participate in the Olympic games.
dart v.
to move suddenly and quickly in a particular direction:
- The woman darted across the street to chase her child.
- Right before the birthday girl walked in the door, her parents darted behind the sofa to surprise her.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150116baaffc3e906f2d7edd51f05897275acc0c4a971ed79d58ed48991d054290a4f3631.wma
On a field roughly the size of an American football field, a player wearing a helmet dodges a defender. He than swings a stick with a net on its end toward the goal. This sweeping motion sends a rubber ball flying from the net past a goalkeeper for a score.
The player -- pumping his fists in celebration -- has just scored a goal in lacrosse, a sport that has elements of hockey, soccer and American
in which new participants quickly find themselves hooked.
Lacrosse basics
In men's lacrosse, two teams of 10 players compete over four periods lasting 15 minutes each. Other than the goalkeeper, each team fields three attackmen, three mid-fielders and three defensemen. As in soccer, players cannot touch the ball with their hands. So, players use their stick, called a crosse, to keep the ball in play. They do this by cradling the ball in the net, called a head, on the end of their stick while darting across the field.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Sporting Venue Names教學主題: 球場大不同
不同的球類有不同的球場名稱,
大型的戶外球場叫做field
golf的球場叫做 course
小型或有網子或室內的球場叫做court
溜冰場rink
Language Lab
defender n.
one of the players in a game such as football who have to defend their team's goal from the opposing team:
- John successfully ran past the defenders and scored.
someone who defends a particular idea, belief, person etc:
- Susan is a passionate defender of women's rights.
participant n.
someone who is taking part in an activity or event
- All the participants attending the training course will receive a certificate.
participate v.
to take part in an activity or event:
- Every member of the team needs to participate in the discussion.
field v.
if you field a team, an army etc, they represent you or fight for you in a competition, election, or war:
- The coach fielded his best players for yesterday's game.
- The country fielded their strongest athletes to participate in the Olympic games.
dart v.
to move suddenly and quickly in a particular direction:
- The woman darted across the street to chase her child.
- Right before the birthday girl walked in the door, her parents darted behind the sofa to surprise her.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150116baaffc3e906f2d7edd51f05897275acc0c4a971ed79d58ed48991d054290a4f3631.wma
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Five Fun-filled Festivals (3)
* Tromso International Film Festival, January 12 -- 13
If film is your passion, then Norway's Tromso film festival is for you! Since the country's winter days are in twilight, it's perfect for watching movies outside.
You will get to meet and interact with people from the international film industry. And you'll gbe able to view some of the world's best international films on Tromso's enormous outdoor screen. More than 50,000 people attend the festival each year.
* Grindelwald World Snow Festival, January 19 -- 24
Every January, ice art takes center stage in the beautiful Swiss village of Grindelwald. Artists from around the world arrive in mid-January to accept the ice challenge. They start with meter-high blocks of ice and spend six days creating spectacular sculptures.
Festival-goers are delighted to see the process as well as the finished pieces. An added benefit is the chance to enjoy the breathtaking scenery around Grindelwald.
Don't let the cold weather keep you inside this season. There are lots of fun and exciting events to attend!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Fun is Not Funny (Fun和Funny的區別)
fun 好玩 有趣的
funny 幽默 搞笑的
Closer Look
If film is your passion, then Norway's Tromso film festival is for you!
If [something] is your passion, then [a certain activity, program or thing] is for you!
- If war history is your passion, then this World War 2 movie is for you!
- If French culture is your passion, then this cooking class is for you!
Language Lab
passion n.
a very strong belief or feeling about something
- Hank's passion is sports cars. He has spent a great deal of time and money on them.
- One of Brenda's passions is dancing.
with passion
- He spoke with passion about the needs of the orphans.
twilight n.
the small amount of light in the sky as the day ends
- After a long and difficult hike, the mountaineers reached the camp at twilight.
the period just before the end of the most active part of someone's life
- After Nathan retired, he began to enjoy the twilight of his life.
spectacular adj.
very impressive:
- We stopped to enjoy the spectacular view of the canyon.
very sudden, unexpected, or extreme:
- The new product brought in a spectacular profit.
scenery n.
the natural features of a particular part of a country that you can see, such as mountains, forests, deserts etc:
- The island's scenery is breathtaking.
- The scenery from our boat as we passed by the icebergs was spectacular.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150115baa41d129a9d8fa616710173e75fb11f485507febd1020f226d34397aefbba32bf7.wma
If film is your passion, then Norway's Tromso film festival is for you! Since the country's winter days are in twilight, it's perfect for watching movies outside.
You will get to meet and interact with people from the international film industry. And you'll gbe able to view some of the world's best international films on Tromso's enormous outdoor screen. More than 50,000 people attend the festival each year.
* Grindelwald World Snow Festival, January 19 -- 24
Every January, ice art takes center stage in the beautiful Swiss village of Grindelwald. Artists from around the world arrive in mid-January to accept the ice challenge. They start with meter-high blocks of ice and spend six days creating spectacular sculptures.
Festival-goers are delighted to see the process as well as the finished pieces. An added benefit is the chance to enjoy the breathtaking scenery around Grindelwald.
Don't let the cold weather keep you inside this season. There are lots of fun and exciting events to attend!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Fun is Not Funny (Fun和Funny的區別)
fun 好玩 有趣的
funny 幽默 搞笑的
Closer Look
If film is your passion, then Norway's Tromso film festival is for you!
If [something] is your passion, then [a certain activity, program or thing] is for you!
- If war history is your passion, then this World War 2 movie is for you!
- If French culture is your passion, then this cooking class is for you!
Language Lab
passion n.
a very strong belief or feeling about something
- Hank's passion is sports cars. He has spent a great deal of time and money on them.
- One of Brenda's passions is dancing.
with passion
- He spoke with passion about the needs of the orphans.
twilight n.
the small amount of light in the sky as the day ends
- After a long and difficult hike, the mountaineers reached the camp at twilight.
the period just before the end of the most active part of someone's life
- After Nathan retired, he began to enjoy the twilight of his life.
spectacular adj.
very impressive:
- We stopped to enjoy the spectacular view of the canyon.
very sudden, unexpected, or extreme:
- The new product brought in a spectacular profit.
scenery n.
the natural features of a particular part of a country that you can see, such as mountains, forests, deserts etc:
- The island's scenery is breathtaking.
- The scenery from our boat as we passed by the icebergs was spectacular.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150115baa41d129a9d8fa616710173e75fb11f485507febd1020f226d34397aefbba32bf7.wma
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Five Fun-filled Festivals (2)
* Anchorage Fur Rendezvous, February 27 -- March 8
North America's largest winter festival takes place in Anchorage, Alaska.
In the past, the fur trade was one of the state's most important industries. The festival's 80th anniversary this year will celebrate Alaska's pioneer way of life. People can enjoy nearly 70 different activities.
Exciting events include the World Championship Sled Dog Races and Running of the Reindeer. Tourists come from around the world to attend the 10-day festival.
* Whitefish Winter Carnival, February 6--8
The pretty mountain town of Whitefish, Montana, plays host to visitors each February. Festival-goers enjoy three days of great food, local music, parades and activities in a family-friendly atmosphere. Over 100 artists display high quality work, ranging from paintings to pottery.
Winter games and sports are a special feature as visitors celebrate the season. One favorite activity has people jump into icy Whitefish Lake to raise money for charity.
National Geographic Traveler magazine has called Whitefish's celebration one of the world's top ten winter carnivals.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: English’s Most Versatile Words 用途最廣的英文單字
英文中最難的字不是很長的單字, 而是很短的單字,
例如: run 除了跑步的意思, 還有其他 644個其他的定義, 而且只是動詞的用法,
其它還有 set, go, take, break, turn, cut, up, hand
Closer Look
... plays host to visitors each February.
to play [a role] to [somebody].
- I'm playing chauffeur to my friend.
- I've been asked to play babysitter to my friend's kids.
Language Lab
rendezvous n.
/ˈrɑːndɪˌvuː/
an arrangement to meet someone at a particular time and place, often secretly
- Wesley and his classmates will have a rendezvous at a fancy restaurant tonight.
a place where two or more people have arranged to meet:
- Their rendezvous will e at the cafe next to the entrance of their office building.
tourist n.
someone who is travelling or visiting a place for pleasure
- Many tourists love to cruise Sunset Boulevard.
tourism n.
the business of providing things for people to do, places for them to stay etc while they are on holiday:
- Tourism in this area has grown a great deal since the mid-80's.
carnival n.
a public event at which people play music, wear special clothes, and dance in the streets:
- A big fireworks show was a wonderful ending to the fantastic carnival.
- The carnival lasted for over a week and attracted over 200,000 tourists.
atmosphere n.
the feeling that an event or place gives you:
- You can sense the tense atmosphere among the contestants.
- The wooden furniture and colorful cushions created a relaxing atmosphere in the cafe.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150114baa9943458f819758e01ecccc52f55965ad476681330dd79c8d578be643282a8572.wma
North America's largest winter festival takes place in Anchorage, Alaska.
In the past, the fur trade was one of the state's most important industries. The festival's 80th anniversary this year will celebrate Alaska's pioneer way of life. People can enjoy nearly 70 different activities.
Exciting events include the World Championship Sled Dog Races and Running of the Reindeer. Tourists come from around the world to attend the 10-day festival.
* Whitefish Winter Carnival, February 6--8
The pretty mountain town of Whitefish, Montana, plays host to visitors each February. Festival-goers enjoy three days of great food, local music, parades and activities in a family-friendly atmosphere. Over 100 artists display high quality work, ranging from paintings to pottery.
Winter games and sports are a special feature as visitors celebrate the season. One favorite activity has people jump into icy Whitefish Lake to raise money for charity.
National Geographic Traveler magazine has called Whitefish's celebration one of the world's top ten winter carnivals.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: English’s Most Versatile Words 用途最廣的英文單字
英文中最難的字不是很長的單字, 而是很短的單字,
例如: run 除了跑步的意思, 還有其他 644個其他的定義, 而且只是動詞的用法,
其它還有 set, go, take, break, turn, cut, up, hand
Closer Look
... plays host to visitors each February.
to play [a role] to [somebody].
- I'm playing chauffeur to my friend.
- I've been asked to play babysitter to my friend's kids.
Language Lab
rendezvous n.
/ˈrɑːndɪˌvuː/
an arrangement to meet someone at a particular time and place, often secretly
- Wesley and his classmates will have a rendezvous at a fancy restaurant tonight.
a place where two or more people have arranged to meet:
- Their rendezvous will e at the cafe next to the entrance of their office building.
tourist n.
someone who is travelling or visiting a place for pleasure
- Many tourists love to cruise Sunset Boulevard.
tourism n.
the business of providing things for people to do, places for them to stay etc while they are on holiday:
- Tourism in this area has grown a great deal since the mid-80's.
carnival n.
a public event at which people play music, wear special clothes, and dance in the streets:
- A big fireworks show was a wonderful ending to the fantastic carnival.
- The carnival lasted for over a week and attracted over 200,000 tourists.
atmosphere n.
the feeling that an event or place gives you:
- You can sense the tense atmosphere among the contestants.
- The wooden furniture and colorful cushions created a relaxing atmosphere in the cafe.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150114baa9943458f819758e01ecccc52f55965ad476681330dd79c8d578be643282a8572.wma
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Five Fun-filled Festivals (1)
Winter festivals you won’t want to miss
Most of us consider winter a great time to stay inside with a good book. Yet the winter months offer great outdoor events, including many fun and unique festivals.
The Ice Festival at Lake Khövsgöl, March 2, 3
To get to this festival, you’ll need to travel to “the ends of the earth!” The remote region located in Mongolia is the perfect setting for cold-weather activities.
Lake Khövsgöl, called the Blue Pearl of Mongolia, freezes up to 1.5 meters deep. Frost-covered trees and mountains circle the lake, creating a winter playground.
Each year local residents have a two-day celebration. Wandering reindeer herders also join the fun, sharing their traditional songs and dances.
The activities take place on the frozen lake and include sled races, skating and much more. There’s an ice tower with a slide and an ice house with hot and cold drinks.
Visitors are always surprised to see how much weight the lake can hold. People, horses and even bonfires can be found on Lake Khövsgöl!
Ino Cloud
Teaching Topic: Alliteration and Tongue Twisters 頭韻和繞口令
Five Fun-filled Festivals 每個字的字首都是f的發音, 這就是 alliteration
在廣告歌詞裡常會出現, 像是Coca Cola
另一個常會見到 alliteration的是 tongue twisters
聽起來悅耳而且容易記
Closer Look
Most of us consider winter a great time to stay inside with a good book.
Most of us consider [something] a great time to [do something].
- Most of us consider summer a great time to go to the beach.
- Most of us consider Friday night a great time to go out and have fun.
Language Lab
remote adj.
far from towns or other places where people live [= isolated]:
- The suspect was found in a remote barn in Alabama.
a remote control:
- Daddy always misplaces his remote control.
frost-covered adj.
- The frost-covered car windows took me 15 minutes to scrape.
wander v.
to walk slowly across or around an area, usually without a clear direction or purpose
- There's a stranger wandering around the kindergarten.
- Charlie wandered into the street and nearly got hit by a car.
sled n.
a small vehicle used for sliding over snow, often used by children or in some sports
- The sled ride in the mountain was pure joy.
- When the sled struck a tree, Steve fell off and broke his leg.
sled v. sledded/sledding
- Ricky sledded down the hill.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150113baaeb8a369a0639e32f09192ee9ad2c791b453db000e15839bf2a9e404fc26716dc.wma
Most of us consider winter a great time to stay inside with a good book. Yet the winter months offer great outdoor events, including many fun and unique festivals.
The Ice Festival at Lake Khövsgöl, March 2, 3
To get to this festival, you’ll need to travel to “the ends of the earth!” The remote region located in Mongolia is the perfect setting for cold-weather activities.
Lake Khövsgöl, called the Blue Pearl of Mongolia, freezes up to 1.5 meters deep. Frost-covered trees and mountains circle the lake, creating a winter playground.
Each year local residents have a two-day celebration. Wandering reindeer herders also join the fun, sharing their traditional songs and dances.
The activities take place on the frozen lake and include sled races, skating and much more. There’s an ice tower with a slide and an ice house with hot and cold drinks.
Visitors are always surprised to see how much weight the lake can hold. People, horses and even bonfires can be found on Lake Khövsgöl!
Ino Cloud
Teaching Topic: Alliteration and Tongue Twisters 頭韻和繞口令
Five Fun-filled Festivals 每個字的字首都是f的發音, 這就是 alliteration
在廣告歌詞裡常會出現, 像是Coca Cola
另一個常會見到 alliteration的是 tongue twisters
聽起來悅耳而且容易記
Closer Look
Most of us consider winter a great time to stay inside with a good book.
Most of us consider [something] a great time to [do something].
- Most of us consider summer a great time to go to the beach.
- Most of us consider Friday night a great time to go out and have fun.
Language Lab
remote adj.
far from towns or other places where people live [= isolated]:
- The suspect was found in a remote barn in Alabama.
a remote control:
- Daddy always misplaces his remote control.
frost-covered adj.
- The frost-covered car windows took me 15 minutes to scrape.
wander v.
to walk slowly across or around an area, usually without a clear direction or purpose
- There's a stranger wandering around the kindergarten.
- Charlie wandered into the street and nearly got hit by a car.
sled n.
a small vehicle used for sliding over snow, often used by children or in some sports
- The sled ride in the mountain was pure joy.
- When the sled struck a tree, Steve fell off and broke his leg.
sled v. sledded/sledding
- Ricky sledded down the hill.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150113baaeb8a369a0639e32f09192ee9ad2c791b453db000e15839bf2a9e404fc26716dc.wma
Monday, January 12, 2015
Tips to Help Your Dog Stop Jumping on People
Down, doggy, down!
Dogs tend to jump up naturally to greet people because they're eager and excited. While your dog's intentions are harmless, some people might perceive this behavior as annoying. And it can be particularly dangerous if you have a large dog jumping up on a child or elderly person. The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers the following tips to help stop your dog from jumping on people.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Other Meanings of Dog
Dog不一定是「狗」
- a dog 失敗之作 (爛電影可以稱為 a dog)
- the dog days 酷熱期 (冬天的時候你可能會想念夏天的炎熱)
- work like a dog 賣命的工作
- I'm dog tired. 累的像狗一樣
- He is sick as a dog. 他病的像一條狗一樣
- a dog-eat-dog world. 肉弱強食的社會
- top dog 領導人, 老闆
- lucky dog 運氣好的人
Closer Look
The best way to teach your dog not to jump is to show him that jumping won't get him any attention - positive or negative.
Subject + verb + object -- description 1 or description 2.
- Regina helps out at the senior center every Sunday -- rain or shine.
- The doctor treats everyone in the same way and does not give special treatment to anybody -- young or old.
Language Lab
intention n.
a plan or desire to do something
- Sam expressed his intention of running for the chairmanship.
- The gift from the ambassador is a symbol of his good intentions.
intend v.
to have something in your mind as a plan or purpose
- Gina intended to finish college before getting married.
annoy v.
to make someone feel slightly angry and unhappy about something
annoying adj.
making you feel slightly angry [= irritating]:
- The annoying noise from the club keeps the neighbors awake at night.
- It's really annoying when a flight is delayed, and the airline won't even tell you the reason.
turn one's back on
to refuse to help, support, or be involved with someone or something:
- Don't turn your back on me! I really need your help now.
- All of Sandra's friend coldly turn their backs on her when she's in trouble.
incompatible adj.
two things that are incompatible cannot exist or be accepted together
- The interests of the two companies became incompatible, so they decided to cease their cooperation.
- The old software is incompatible with my new computer.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150112baac562fdfcd0817fc520b0e56f78618bec4fc54073fe43517809cba564d61c471e.wma
Dogs tend to jump up naturally to greet people because they're eager and excited. While your dog's intentions are harmless, some people might perceive this behavior as annoying. And it can be particularly dangerous if you have a large dog jumping up on a child or elderly person. The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers the following tips to help stop your dog from jumping on people.
- Ignore the jumping. The best way to teach your dog not to jump is to show him that jumping won't get him any attention -- positive or negative. Ignore your dog when he jumps on you. Don't make any eye contact or speak until all four feet are on the floor. At that point, calmly praise your pup.
- Turn your back. Another tactic is turning your back on your dog until he stops jumping. Once he stops, turn around and praise him and then pet him.
- Incompatible behaviors. Teach your dog to do something incompatible with jumping. For example, your dog can't jump while he is sitting or lying down. Teach your dog "sit" or "down" as an alternative. Calmly praise and reward your dog when he holds the sit or down.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Other Meanings of Dog
Dog不一定是「狗」
- a dog 失敗之作 (爛電影可以稱為 a dog)
- the dog days 酷熱期 (冬天的時候你可能會想念夏天的炎熱)
- work like a dog 賣命的工作
- I'm dog tired. 累的像狗一樣
- He is sick as a dog. 他病的像一條狗一樣
- a dog-eat-dog world. 肉弱強食的社會
- top dog 領導人, 老闆
- lucky dog 運氣好的人
Closer Look
The best way to teach your dog not to jump is to show him that jumping won't get him any attention - positive or negative.
Subject + verb + object -- description 1 or description 2.
- Regina helps out at the senior center every Sunday -- rain or shine.
- The doctor treats everyone in the same way and does not give special treatment to anybody -- young or old.
Language Lab
intention n.
a plan or desire to do something
- Sam expressed his intention of running for the chairmanship.
- The gift from the ambassador is a symbol of his good intentions.
intend v.
to have something in your mind as a plan or purpose
- Gina intended to finish college before getting married.
annoy v.
to make someone feel slightly angry and unhappy about something
annoying adj.
- The annoying noise from the club keeps the neighbors awake at night.
- It's really annoying when a flight is delayed, and the airline won't even tell you the reason.
turn one's back on
to refuse to help, support, or be involved with someone or something:
- Don't turn your back on me! I really need your help now.
- All of Sandra's friend coldly turn their backs on her when she's in trouble.
incompatible adj.
two things that are incompatible cannot exist or be accepted together
- The interests of the two companies became incompatible, so they decided to cease their cooperation.
- The old software is incompatible with my new computer.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150112baac562fdfcd0817fc520b0e56f78618bec4fc54073fe43517809cba564d61c471e.wma
Saturday, January 10, 2015
That’s an Interesting Job! (2)
Ethical hacker
Ethical hackers spend their time attacking computer security systems to prevent data theft and fraud. Using the same techniques as their unethical counterparts who only want to steal, ethical hackers look for system weaknesses and report the problems. One needs certification, IT security experience and a college degree. But it can be very exciting!
Body-parts model
Sometimes fashion models look good modeling a whole outfit, but some individual parts of their bodies are not good for close-ups. That's why body-parts models are crucial.
Their specialty involves modeling one part of their body, like a hand, foot or leg. Hand models help sell rings, bracelets or nail products. Foot models make shoes look good, and leg models highlight things like stockings or lotion.
High-rise window washer
Imagine going out onto the roof of a 30-story building, turning around and stepping backward over the edge. High-rise window washers do that every day, but of course they are attached to one or more ropes. They enjoy incredible views and witness lots of goings-on inside offices.
Definitely not a job for the faint of heart!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Oxymorons 矛盾修詞法
a deliberate combination of two words that seem to mean the opposite of each other, such as 'cruel kindness'
把相互矛盾的二個字放在一起, 以獲得特殊的效果,
例如: ethical hacker, open secret, old news, working vacation
Closer Look
Definitely not a job for the faint of heart!
- Definitely not a trail for beginners.
Language Lab
fraud n.
the crime of deceiving people in order to gain something such as money or goods
- The con man was arrested and sentenced for business fraud.
- The insurance fraud became the focus of the media because it involved a great deal of money.
someone or something that is not what it is claimed to be
- That picture of Bob with the president is a fraud. Bob has never even met him.
counterpart n.
someone or something that has the same job or purpose as someone or something else in a different place
- The prime minister will meet his counterpart from Great Britain to discuss the good shortage problem.
- The price of our new product is higher than its counterparts, but its quality is superior.
specialty n.
a subject or job that you know a lot about or have a lot of experience of [= speciality British English]
- Lawrence's specialty is music engineering.
a type of food that a person, restaurant, or area is well known for
- The specialties of this restaurant are cheeseburgers and chili fires.
high-rise n.
high-rise buildings are tall buildings with many levels
- Janet's office is in that modern high-rise.
- These high-rise create the city's unique skyline.
high-rise adj.
- a high-rise office building
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150110baaadf717858301a393b85f8dc3cf725dcf0093e063ca67aba26f82f7ed39f11a06.wma
Ethical hackers spend their time attacking computer security systems to prevent data theft and fraud. Using the same techniques as their unethical counterparts who only want to steal, ethical hackers look for system weaknesses and report the problems. One needs certification, IT security experience and a college degree. But it can be very exciting!
Body-parts model
Sometimes fashion models look good modeling a whole outfit, but some individual parts of their bodies are not good for close-ups. That's why body-parts models are crucial.
Their specialty involves modeling one part of their body, like a hand, foot or leg. Hand models help sell rings, bracelets or nail products. Foot models make shoes look good, and leg models highlight things like stockings or lotion.
High-rise window washer
Imagine going out onto the roof of a 30-story building, turning around and stepping backward over the edge. High-rise window washers do that every day, but of course they are attached to one or more ropes. They enjoy incredible views and witness lots of goings-on inside offices.
Definitely not a job for the faint of heart!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Oxymorons 矛盾修詞法
a deliberate combination of two words that seem to mean the opposite of each other, such as 'cruel kindness'
把相互矛盾的二個字放在一起, 以獲得特殊的效果,
例如: ethical hacker, open secret, old news, working vacation
Closer Look
Definitely not a job for the faint of heart!
Definitely not a [something] for [somebody].
- Definitely not a movie for young kids.- Definitely not a trail for beginners.
Language Lab
fraud n.
the crime of deceiving people in order to gain something such as money or goods
- The con man was arrested and sentenced for business fraud.
- The insurance fraud became the focus of the media because it involved a great deal of money.
someone or something that is not what it is claimed to be
- That picture of Bob with the president is a fraud. Bob has never even met him.
counterpart n.
someone or something that has the same job or purpose as someone or something else in a different place
- The prime minister will meet his counterpart from Great Britain to discuss the good shortage problem.
- The price of our new product is higher than its counterparts, but its quality is superior.
specialty n.
a subject or job that you know a lot about or have a lot of experience of [= speciality British English]
- Lawrence's specialty is music engineering.
a type of food that a person, restaurant, or area is well known for
- The specialties of this restaurant are cheeseburgers and chili fires.
high-rise n.
high-rise buildings are tall buildings with many levels
- Janet's office is in that modern high-rise.
- These high-rise create the city's unique skyline.
high-rise adj.
- a high-rise office building
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150110baaadf717858301a393b85f8dc3cf725dcf0093e063ca67aba26f82f7ed39f11a06.wma
Friday, January 9, 2015
That’s an Interesting Job! (1)
Some jobs are more interesting than others
"What do you do?" This common question usually figures fairly quickly into a conversation with a stranger. The question is a good place to start looking for common ground, and there are some fascinating jobs out there that make for great conversation.
Personal shopper
What could be better than getting paid to shop? But the catch is - the shopping is for someone else. Busy people who lack fashion sense sometimes hire someone with fashion expertise to hit the stores for them.
While there is no schooling required to be a personal shopper, a background in retail sales is an asset. And a personal shopper should have plenty of enthusiasm, energy and patience. In some cases, they may need to shop till they drop!
Cruise ship pianist
Playing the piano for a living becomes more exciting when travel is involved. Cruise ship pianists provide music of many kinds - Broadway - style, classical, jazz, pop, etc. A pianist will accompany singers of many kinds as well as playing solo music. Being able to travel extensively is the best part of the job.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Learning Instruments and Learning English 學英文就像學樂器
學英文不用天份,
需要 commitment 投入,
要 persistence, patience, practice 堅持, 耐心, 熟練
Closer Look
The question is a good place to start looking for common ground...
[Something] is a good place to start [doing something].
- The Internet is a good place to start looking for the information you need.
- Attending classes at a community college is a good place to start getting your certification.
Language Lab
common ground n.
[uncountable] a general opinion or set of attitudes:
- We need to seek some common ground to work together as a team.
expertise n.
[uncountable] special skills or knowledge in a particular subject, that you learn by experience or training
expertise in
- Sean's expertise in training athletes is unquestionable.
- I have no expertise in cooking.
state the obvious
to say something that is already obvious so it is not necessary to say it:
It is stating the obvious, but regular measurement of blood pressure is essential in older people.
the catch is (that)
a hidden problem or difficulty
- This deal looks too good to be true - there must be a catch somewhere.
asset n.
something or someone that is useful because they help you succeed or deal with problems
- Fluency in English is an asset in this job.
- Nick's expertise in the field made him an important asset to the company.
cruise n.
a holiday on a large ship:
- Henry and his wife went on a cruise to Europe for their second honeymoon.
- The new cruise ship is just like an amusement part at sea.
cruise v.
to sail along slowly, especially for pleasure:
- We spent a whole weekend cruising along the shore of the island.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150109baac534a6f3929fae85526867125c30ce6e0fae93f663f38bef7454cd01e393133d.wma
"What do you do?" This common question usually figures fairly quickly into a conversation with a stranger. The question is a good place to start looking for common ground, and there are some fascinating jobs out there that make for great conversation.
Personal shopper
What could be better than getting paid to shop? But the catch is - the shopping is for someone else. Busy people who lack fashion sense sometimes hire someone with fashion expertise to hit the stores for them.
While there is no schooling required to be a personal shopper, a background in retail sales is an asset. And a personal shopper should have plenty of enthusiasm, energy and patience. In some cases, they may need to shop till they drop!
Cruise ship pianist
Playing the piano for a living becomes more exciting when travel is involved. Cruise ship pianists provide music of many kinds - Broadway - style, classical, jazz, pop, etc. A pianist will accompany singers of many kinds as well as playing solo music. Being able to travel extensively is the best part of the job.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Learning Instruments and Learning English 學英文就像學樂器
學英文不用天份,
需要 commitment 投入,
要 persistence, patience, practice 堅持, 耐心, 熟練
Closer Look
The question is a good place to start looking for common ground...
[Something] is a good place to start [doing something].
- The Internet is a good place to start looking for the information you need.
- Attending classes at a community college is a good place to start getting your certification.
Language Lab
common ground n.
[uncountable] a general opinion or set of attitudes:
- We need to seek some common ground to work together as a team.
expertise n.
[uncountable] special skills or knowledge in a particular subject, that you learn by experience or training
expertise in
- Sean's expertise in training athletes is unquestionable.
- I have no expertise in cooking.
state the obvious
to say something that is already obvious so it is not necessary to say it:
It is stating the obvious, but regular measurement of blood pressure is essential in older people.
the catch is (that)
a hidden problem or difficulty
- This deal looks too good to be true - there must be a catch somewhere.
asset n.
something or someone that is useful because they help you succeed or deal with problems
- Fluency in English is an asset in this job.
- Nick's expertise in the field made him an important asset to the company.
cruise n.
a holiday on a large ship:
- Henry and his wife went on a cruise to Europe for their second honeymoon.
- The new cruise ship is just like an amusement part at sea.
cruise v.
to sail along slowly, especially for pleasure:
- We spent a whole weekend cruising along the shore of the island.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150109baac534a6f3929fae85526867125c30ce6e0fae93f663f38bef7454cd01e393133d.wma
Thursday, January 8, 2015
How Long Could You Last Without Your Mobile Phone? (2)
The bank found 82 percent of those surveyed access their bank accounts at least once a week. Thirty-one percent log in at least once a day. But the study is full of other findings:
* 28 percent of respondents said they could do without their phone for about a week. In contrast, 24 percent said they would feel naked without it after 24 hours.
* 45 percent would be willing to give up alcohol to get their phone back. And 34 percent would give up chocolate (more men than women, however, would give up the chocolate).
* Among millennials (age 18-24), a phone is more important than social-networking sites, a car, television, deodorant and a toothbrush.
* Despite new laws against mobile-phone use while driving, 38 percent admit to checking their phone while behind the wheel.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Different Generations 不同的世代
Closer Look
28 percent of respondents said they could do without their phone for about a week.
[Someone] can/could do without [something].
- Do you think you can do without your computer games for a few days?
- We can do without a calculator because we have Ted and his math is good.
can/could do without something = something is annoying
- It was fun being at the mall, but I could do without the screaming kids.
Language Lab
bank account n.
- Sandy has two bank accounts with the local bank; One checking account and one savings account.
respondent n.
someone who answers questions, especially in a survey:
- The respondents of the survey were mostly females.
- Over 50% of the respondents reported side effects from the treatment.
millennial n.
/məˈlɛnijəl/
- Millennials no longer get entertainment from TV; Instead they use the Internet.
adj.
- The millennial generation is well-informed and creative.
behind the wheel (=driving a car)
- Once you're behind the wheel, you should know where you want to go.
- Nancy is a completely different person when she's behind the wheel.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150108baa03c4f42c7e95a3784ec7e6cb396a1db68d19aa4aeb9fad10dd850c467de0bee4.wma
* 28 percent of respondents said they could do without their phone for about a week. In contrast, 24 percent said they would feel naked without it after 24 hours.
* 45 percent would be willing to give up alcohol to get their phone back. And 34 percent would give up chocolate (more men than women, however, would give up the chocolate).
* Among millennials (age 18-24), a phone is more important than social-networking sites, a car, television, deodorant and a toothbrush.
* Despite new laws against mobile-phone use while driving, 38 percent admit to checking their phone while behind the wheel.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Different Generations 不同的世代
Closer Look
28 percent of respondents said they could do without their phone for about a week.
[Someone] can/could do without [something].
- Do you think you can do without your computer games for a few days?
- We can do without a calculator because we have Ted and his math is good.
can/could do without something = something is annoying
- It was fun being at the mall, but I could do without the screaming kids.
Language Lab
bank account n.
- Sandy has two bank accounts with the local bank; One checking account and one savings account.
respondent n.
someone who answers questions, especially in a survey:
- The respondents of the survey were mostly females.
- Over 50% of the respondents reported side effects from the treatment.
millennial n.
/məˈlɛnijəl/
- Millennials no longer get entertainment from TV; Instead they use the Internet.
adj.
- The millennial generation is well-informed and creative.
behind the wheel (=driving a car)
- Once you're behind the wheel, you should know where you want to go.
- Nancy is a completely different person when she's behind the wheel.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150108baa03c4f42c7e95a3784ec7e6cb396a1db68d19aa4aeb9fad10dd850c467de0bee4.wma
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
How Long Could You Last Without Your Mobile Phone? (1)
Interesting facts about phone usage
How many days could you last without your mobile phone?
According to a new report released by Bank of America, [not many]. Nearly half of the people surveyed (47 percent) said they wouldn't last a day without their device.
The need for access to a mobile phone ranks higher than access to TV or coffee. [This was] according to the survey, held by Braun Research. The phone survey of 1,000 adults was conducted May 6 to 13. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points.
Thirty-five percent of people said they check their phones constantly. Twenty-six percent say they check it several times throughout the day. Thirteen percent said they hardly ever check their phone or only check it when they really need it.
Bank of America had the study done. [It was] partly to show how much consumers increasingly are relying on their smartphones to make banking transactions.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Newborn Phrases 科技下的新名詞
second screen 邊看電視, 邊滑手機, 一心二用的行為
hyper connected 高度的連結, 現代人越來越離不開網路, 在荒交野外還在用手機
cord cutting 終止室內電話電視, 而改用網路
Closer Look
It was partly to show how much consumers increasingly are relying on their smartphones to make banking transactions.
[Subject] was partly to [verb]...
- The company had a party, and it was partly to celebrate the retirement of one of the company managers.
- The artist had an exhibit, and it was partly to raise money for charity.
Language Lab
survey v.
to ask a large number of people questions in order to find out their attitudes or opinions:
- To develop new products, the company surveyed almost 1000 customers to gather information.
survey n.
- The survey shows that over 25% of the readers dislike the new magazine cover.
access n.
the right to enter a place, use something, see someone etc
access to
- The hotel offers free access to the Internet.
access v.
to find information, especially on a computer:
- The town can only be accessed by boat or aircraft.
rely v.
to trust or depend on someone or something to do what you need or expect them to do
rely on/upon somebody/something phrasal verb
- The future of the company relies on this project.
- Jenny relied on her parents for good advice at crucial moments in her life.
transaction n.
a business deal or action, such as buying or selling something:
- Marvin made a fortune on this business transaction.
- These risky transactions can put the company in jeopardy.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150107baadc3acf9c8c2ac5bf5599ea879d7843c94fba2d5dbbcb5a1919b84911d6f4fd5a.wma
How many days could you last without your mobile phone?
According to a new report released by Bank of America, [not many]. Nearly half of the people surveyed (47 percent) said they wouldn't last a day without their device.
The need for access to a mobile phone ranks higher than access to TV or coffee. [This was] according to the survey, held by Braun Research. The phone survey of 1,000 adults was conducted May 6 to 13. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points.
Thirty-five percent of people said they check their phones constantly. Twenty-six percent say they check it several times throughout the day. Thirteen percent said they hardly ever check their phone or only check it when they really need it.
Bank of America had the study done. [It was] partly to show how much consumers increasingly are relying on their smartphones to make banking transactions.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Newborn Phrases 科技下的新名詞
second screen 邊看電視, 邊滑手機, 一心二用的行為
hyper connected 高度的連結, 現代人越來越離不開網路, 在荒交野外還在用手機
cord cutting 終止室內電話電視, 而改用網路
Closer Look
It was partly to show how much consumers increasingly are relying on their smartphones to make banking transactions.
[Subject] was partly to [verb]...
- The company had a party, and it was partly to celebrate the retirement of one of the company managers.
- The artist had an exhibit, and it was partly to raise money for charity.
Language Lab
survey v.
to ask a large number of people questions in order to find out their attitudes or opinions:
- To develop new products, the company surveyed almost 1000 customers to gather information.
survey n.
- The survey shows that over 25% of the readers dislike the new magazine cover.
access n.
the right to enter a place, use something, see someone etc
access to
- The hotel offers free access to the Internet.
access v.
to find information, especially on a computer:
- The town can only be accessed by boat or aircraft.
rely v.
to trust or depend on someone or something to do what you need or expect them to do
rely on/upon somebody/something phrasal verb
- The future of the company relies on this project.
- Jenny relied on her parents for good advice at crucial moments in her life.
transaction n.
a business deal or action, such as buying or selling something:
- Marvin made a fortune on this business transaction.
- These risky transactions can put the company in jeopardy.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150107baadc3acf9c8c2ac5bf5599ea879d7843c94fba2d5dbbcb5a1919b84911d6f4fd5a.wma
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Study Finds Sleep Drunkenness May Affect More Than 1 in 7 People (2)
The majority of those who'd experienced confusional arousal were experiencing it regularly. 53.8 percent reported having at least one episode per week, and 24.7 percent reported two to five episodes per month.
For 37.6 percent of sufferers, the episodes were brief - less than 5 minutes. But 30.1 percent of them said the episodes could last 15 minutes or more after waking up.
Many shared similar symptoms. 57 percent reported being disoriented as they woke up, and 34.4 percent said they had difficulty talking or thinking clearly. In addition, 19.9 percent said they experienced "inappropriate behaviors" such as grabbing the phone instead of flailing for the alarm clock.
Confusional arousal isn't officially classified as a disorder, the researchers pointed out, "probably because it has received little attention from the scientific community." But if it was, they said, it could raise awareness. And that could lead to a better understanding of the condition and better treatment options.
"Our study shows that underestimating the importance of CA leads to misunderstanding of the disorder and its effects," the study authors wrote.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Rule of Thumb 經驗法則
在美國的小朋友都知道的拼字規則,
當i 跟 e放在一起時, i要放在e前面,
除非ie是出現在c的前面, 發a的音,
像receive
neighbor因為發a的音, 也要把e放在前面,
但也有例外, 像是science (ie出現在c後面)
rule of thumb 實際經驗套用在大部份的列子裡可用的方法,
但也是會有例外
Closer Look
The majority of those who'd experienced confusional arousal were experiencing it regularly.
The majority of those who... were....
- The majority of those who bought things on the first day were women over 30.
- The majority of those who attended the neighborhood meeting were residents who wanted to discuss the local election.
Language Lab
inappropriate adj.
not suitable or right for a particular purpose or in a particular situation [≠ appropriate]
- It's quite inappropriate to interrupt when the host is making a toast.
- The movie star's inappropriate comment about females was criticized by the press.
flail v.
to wave your arms or legs in an uncontrolled way:
- The baby suddenly started flailing after he was awakened by a loud noise.
- The boy flailed his arms trying to hold on to a branch when he fell from the tree.
classify v.
to decide what group something belongs to
- The books in the library are classified alphabetically according to the authors' last names.
classified adj.
classified information, documents etc are ones which the government has ordered to be kept secret
- These classified files can only be accessed by your superiors.
underestimated v.
to think or guess that something is smaller, cheaper, easier etc than it really is [≠ overestimate]
- Don't underestimate how much a child can understand.
- Josh never underestimates his competitors, and that's why his business is doing well.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150106baa57ea8576c62b61580f8debaa71f1039cb782e7264d133f227096b9dfab2d2698.wma
For 37.6 percent of sufferers, the episodes were brief - less than 5 minutes. But 30.1 percent of them said the episodes could last 15 minutes or more after waking up.
Many shared similar symptoms. 57 percent reported being disoriented as they woke up, and 34.4 percent said they had difficulty talking or thinking clearly. In addition, 19.9 percent said they experienced "inappropriate behaviors" such as grabbing the phone instead of flailing for the alarm clock.
Confusional arousal isn't officially classified as a disorder, the researchers pointed out, "probably because it has received little attention from the scientific community." But if it was, they said, it could raise awareness. And that could lead to a better understanding of the condition and better treatment options.
"Our study shows that underestimating the importance of CA leads to misunderstanding of the disorder and its effects," the study authors wrote.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Rule of Thumb 經驗法則
在美國的小朋友都知道的拼字規則,
當i 跟 e放在一起時, i要放在e前面,
除非ie是出現在c的前面, 發a的音,
像receive
neighbor因為發a的音, 也要把e放在前面,
但也有例外, 像是science (ie出現在c後面)
rule of thumb 實際經驗套用在大部份的列子裡可用的方法,
但也是會有例外
Closer Look
The majority of those who'd experienced confusional arousal were experiencing it regularly.
The majority of those who... were....
- The majority of those who bought things on the first day were women over 30.
- The majority of those who attended the neighborhood meeting were residents who wanted to discuss the local election.
Language Lab
inappropriate adj.
not suitable or right for a particular purpose or in a particular situation [≠ appropriate]
- It's quite inappropriate to interrupt when the host is making a toast.
- The movie star's inappropriate comment about females was criticized by the press.
flail v.
to wave your arms or legs in an uncontrolled way:
- The baby suddenly started flailing after he was awakened by a loud noise.
- The boy flailed his arms trying to hold on to a branch when he fell from the tree.
classify v.
to decide what group something belongs to
- The books in the library are classified alphabetically according to the authors' last names.
classified adj.
classified information, documents etc are ones which the government has ordered to be kept secret
- These classified files can only be accessed by your superiors.
underestimated v.
to think or guess that something is smaller, cheaper, easier etc than it really is [≠ overestimate]
- Don't underestimate how much a child can understand.
- Josh never underestimates his competitors, and that's why his business is doing well.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150106baa57ea8576c62b61580f8debaa71f1039cb782e7264d133f227096b9dfab2d2698.wma
Monday, January 5, 2015
Study Finds Sleep Drunkenness May Affect More Than 1 in 7 People (1)
Do you get enough sleep?
Ever heard of "sleep drunkenness"? Have you ever tried to reach for your phone when your alarm clock rings? Or when you wake up you don't know where you are? Then you may have experienced what's known formally as "confusional arousal." More than 1 in 7 people in the U.S. may suffer from the condition, according to a study in the journal Neurology. In confusional arousal, sleepers wake up in a disoriented state and perhaps behave strangely in the process.
The condition often occurs when someone wakes up during non-REM sleep and can be caused by a "forced awakening" the study authors wrote. It can potentially cause violent behavior during sleep or right as the person wakes up.
To find out how prevalent sleep drunkenness is, the researchers surveyed 19,136 people age 18 or older in 15 states. They found that 15.2 percent of respondents said they had experienced a confusional arousal in the previous year. The episodes were overwhelmingly linked to sleep disorders, which were present 70.8 percent of the time.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Qualifiers 修飾詞
如果你想要主張你的信念或看法,
但又要必免你的主張聽起來太五段,
二全其美的方法就是採用修飾詞,
像may, often, perhaps, potentially這些都是修飾詞,
但一篇文章如果加太多修飾詞會讓人覺得
你對你自己的主張沒有自信
Closer Look
The condition often occurs when someone wakes up during non-REM sleep and can be caused by a "forced awakening" the study authors wrote.
the study authors wrote
subject: the study authors
verb: wrote
- Most of the students appreciate the new rules for the student center the school paper reports.
- The witness' statement did not match the evidence the professor commented.
Language Lab
formally adv.
officially [≠ informally]:
- The celebrity couple formally announced their engagement at a press conference.
formal adj.
formal dress is clothing such as a tuxedo for men or a long dress for women, that is worn to formal events
- The dress code for tonight's banquet is formal.
disoriented adj.
confused and not understanding what is happening around you
- The patient felt disoriented after waking up from surgery.
- The loss of a loved one can make a person feel completely disoriented.
prevalent adj.
common at a particular time, in a particular place, or among a particular group of people
- Depression is more prevalent among females than males.
- Alcoholism is becoming more and more prevalent among teenagers.
prevalence n.
- The prevalence of the disease was reduced after the vaccine was invented.
disorder n.
a mental or physical illness which prevents part of your body from working properly
- Janet suffers from a serious eating disorder.
a situation in which things or people are very untidy or disorganized
- The company was in disorder when the boss was gone.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150105baae8cf31b12dd6e4ab4f21d9e2a61c4d084e503c7a713d4a4c5c58ca9d13ce05ba.wma
Ever heard of "sleep drunkenness"? Have you ever tried to reach for your phone when your alarm clock rings? Or when you wake up you don't know where you are? Then you may have experienced what's known formally as "confusional arousal." More than 1 in 7 people in the U.S. may suffer from the condition, according to a study in the journal Neurology. In confusional arousal, sleepers wake up in a disoriented state and perhaps behave strangely in the process.
The condition often occurs when someone wakes up during non-REM sleep and can be caused by a "forced awakening" the study authors wrote. It can potentially cause violent behavior during sleep or right as the person wakes up.
To find out how prevalent sleep drunkenness is, the researchers surveyed 19,136 people age 18 or older in 15 states. They found that 15.2 percent of respondents said they had experienced a confusional arousal in the previous year. The episodes were overwhelmingly linked to sleep disorders, which were present 70.8 percent of the time.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Qualifiers 修飾詞
如果你想要主張你的信念或看法,
但又要必免你的主張聽起來太五段,
二全其美的方法就是採用修飾詞,
像may, often, perhaps, potentially這些都是修飾詞,
但一篇文章如果加太多修飾詞會讓人覺得
你對你自己的主張沒有自信
Closer Look
The condition often occurs when someone wakes up during non-REM sleep and can be caused by a "forced awakening" the study authors wrote.
the study authors wrote
subject: the study authors
verb: wrote
- Most of the students appreciate the new rules for the student center the school paper reports.
- The witness' statement did not match the evidence the professor commented.
Language Lab
formally adv.
officially [≠ informally]:
- The celebrity couple formally announced their engagement at a press conference.
formal adj.
formal dress is clothing such as a tuxedo for men or a long dress for women, that is worn to formal events
- The dress code for tonight's banquet is formal.
disoriented adj.
confused and not understanding what is happening around you
- The patient felt disoriented after waking up from surgery.
- The loss of a loved one can make a person feel completely disoriented.
prevalent adj.
common at a particular time, in a particular place, or among a particular group of people
- Depression is more prevalent among females than males.
- Alcoholism is becoming more and more prevalent among teenagers.
prevalence n.
- The prevalence of the disease was reduced after the vaccine was invented.
disorder n.
a mental or physical illness which prevents part of your body from working properly
- Janet suffers from a serious eating disorder.
a situation in which things or people are very untidy or disorganized
- The company was in disorder when the boss was gone.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150105baae8cf31b12dd6e4ab4f21d9e2a61c4d084e503c7a713d4a4c5c58ca9d13ce05ba.wma
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Five Ways to Do More in Less Time (3)
4. Batch'em.
Imagine your time is like a closet. See your day as a limited space that accommodates only so much and benefits from organization. Group common tasks together. Hit the grocery store, cleaners and health-food store all in one outing.
How to: Counterpoint management: Pick off-times to pick up dry-cleaning and stock up on groceries. Leave 30 minutes earlier in the morning to avoid rush-hour traffic. Added benefit: You'll get in quiet time at work.
5. Just do it!
Procrastination is a chronic time guzzler. Set up a rewards system to stay motivated. Say a deadline out loud to someone else to solidify it in your mind and to commit yourself to it. If you are consistently late, set an early deadline and write reminders in your planner, calendar, or on post-its. Don't let fear of failure - or success - paralyze you. Jump in and get started.
How to: If you are feeling unfocused and having trouble getting something done, take a 15-minute break. Set a beginning and end to the break to make it guilt-free.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is Rush Hour? 尖峰時段
rush hour 是個很有趣的片語,
字面上是指向前衝的一小時,
但事實上你在rush hour當中不但沒辦法rush,
而且時間遠超過一小時,
其實rush hour 指的就是上下班的尖峰時段,
雖然用的hour是單數,
但時間往往超過1小時,
通常是2-3個小時,
rush hour最明顯的現象就是traffic jam塞車,
嚴重的rush hour往往是bumper to bumper,
指的是一部車的保險桿緊貼著另一部車的保險桿,
也就是說在車陣當中動彈不得
Closer Look
Hit the grocery store, cleaners and health-food store all in one outing.
hit: to go
Hit... all in one...
- Hit the art galleries along the river all in one afternoon.
- Hit every museum in the city all in one week.
Language Lab
batch n.
a group of people or things that arrive or are dealt with together
- We waited outside the bakery for the first batch of fresh rolls.
batch v. 分批 分組
- Mail is batched by zip codes in the post offices before being delivered.
- Mark batched up the books for the moving company to pick up.
counterpoint v.
the combination of two or more tunes played together so that they sound like one tune
- The sharp lines of the furniture counterpoint their bright colors.
counterpoint n.
something that is different from something else in usually a pleasing way
- The tranquil atmosphere of the museum provides an interesting counterpoint to the busy and noisy streets outside.
chronic adj.
a chronic problem is one that continues for a long time and cannot easily be solved:
- Gloria suffers from chronic heart disease which makes her very weak.
a chronic disease or illness is one that continues for a long time and cannot be cured
- Zack is a chronic smoker. He had tried to quit many times but has failed.
paralyze v.
if something paralyses you, it makes you lose the ability to move part or all of your body, or to feel it:
- Fear of failure paralyzed her, and she stopped trying new things.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150103baa8b8835c5582d05d3d575c58d1acfe8d690eea714a9e3f0eea6b31a5bc11eb38c.wma
Imagine your time is like a closet. See your day as a limited space that accommodates only so much and benefits from organization. Group common tasks together. Hit the grocery store, cleaners and health-food store all in one outing.
How to: Counterpoint management: Pick off-times to pick up dry-cleaning and stock up on groceries. Leave 30 minutes earlier in the morning to avoid rush-hour traffic. Added benefit: You'll get in quiet time at work.
5. Just do it!
Procrastination is a chronic time guzzler. Set up a rewards system to stay motivated. Say a deadline out loud to someone else to solidify it in your mind and to commit yourself to it. If you are consistently late, set an early deadline and write reminders in your planner, calendar, or on post-its. Don't let fear of failure - or success - paralyze you. Jump in and get started.
How to: If you are feeling unfocused and having trouble getting something done, take a 15-minute break. Set a beginning and end to the break to make it guilt-free.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is Rush Hour? 尖峰時段
rush hour 是個很有趣的片語,
字面上是指向前衝的一小時,
但事實上你在rush hour當中不但沒辦法rush,
而且時間遠超過一小時,
其實rush hour 指的就是上下班的尖峰時段,
雖然用的hour是單數,
但時間往往超過1小時,
通常是2-3個小時,
rush hour最明顯的現象就是traffic jam塞車,
嚴重的rush hour往往是bumper to bumper,
指的是一部車的保險桿緊貼著另一部車的保險桿,
也就是說在車陣當中動彈不得
Closer Look
Hit the grocery store, cleaners and health-food store all in one outing.
hit: to go
Hit... all in one...
- Hit the art galleries along the river all in one afternoon.
- Hit every museum in the city all in one week.
Language Lab
batch n.
a group of people or things that arrive or are dealt with together
- We waited outside the bakery for the first batch of fresh rolls.
batch v. 分批 分組
- Mail is batched by zip codes in the post offices before being delivered.
- Mark batched up the books for the moving company to pick up.
counterpoint v.
the combination of two or more tunes played together so that they sound like one tune
- The sharp lines of the furniture counterpoint their bright colors.
counterpoint n.
something that is different from something else in usually a pleasing way
- The tranquil atmosphere of the museum provides an interesting counterpoint to the busy and noisy streets outside.
chronic adj.
a chronic problem is one that continues for a long time and cannot easily be solved:
- Gloria suffers from chronic heart disease which makes her very weak.
a chronic disease or illness is one that continues for a long time and cannot be cured
- Zack is a chronic smoker. He had tried to quit many times but has failed.
paralyze v.
if something paralyses you, it makes you lose the ability to move part or all of your body, or to feel it:
- Fear of failure paralyzed her, and she stopped trying new things.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150103baa8b8835c5582d05d3d575c58d1acfe8d690eea714a9e3f0eea6b31a5bc11eb38c.wma
Friday, January 2, 2015
Five Ways to Do More in Less Time (2)
2. Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize.
Prioritizing is the key to greater efficiency as well as accomplishing what really matters. Assess each activity or task at hand and ask yourself point-blank: What results will this gain?
How to: Establish a way of ranking items on your to-do list by relearning your ABCs. Give A-items (rich in reward) your full attention first. Set aside a special time each day or week to accomplish these things. Focus less on the B's (they offer minimal payoff). Brush aside or farm out the C's with the 4D's: delete, delay, diminish, delegate.
3. Disarm distractions.
Taking a call at random or chatting iwth an unexpected visitor can eat away your day. Manage distractions by asking upfront how much time is required. Be proactive in deciding whether to proceed or postpone. If you're in the middle of something, offer to meet at a later time.
How to: Get ahead of the game by starting early in the day. One hour of quiet, uninterrupted work time is worth three to four hours later in the day, according to time-management studies. Also, don't start each morning with the simplest tasks on your to-do list to warm up. That tactic simply wastes your most alert hours.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150102baa4b57c4b9462118a116ab8b1b8a263211772411262ea0a476e9cd253aaceaa095.wma
Prioritizing is the key to greater efficiency as well as accomplishing what really matters. Assess each activity or task at hand and ask yourself point-blank: What results will this gain?
How to: Establish a way of ranking items on your to-do list by relearning your ABCs. Give A-items (rich in reward) your full attention first. Set aside a special time each day or week to accomplish these things. Focus less on the B's (they offer minimal payoff). Brush aside or farm out the C's with the 4D's: delete, delay, diminish, delegate.
3. Disarm distractions.
Taking a call at random or chatting iwth an unexpected visitor can eat away your day. Manage distractions by asking upfront how much time is required. Be proactive in deciding whether to proceed or postpone. If you're in the middle of something, offer to meet at a later time.
How to: Get ahead of the game by starting early in the day. One hour of quiet, uninterrupted work time is worth three to four hours later in the day, according to time-management studies. Also, don't start each morning with the simplest tasks on your to-do list to warm up. That tactic simply wastes your most alert hours.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150102baa4b57c4b9462118a116ab8b1b8a263211772411262ea0a476e9cd253aaceaa095.wma
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Five Ways to Do More in Less Time (1)
Be in charge of your time this year
Time often holds us hostage. We wrestle with endless to-do lists, pressurized deadlines and spiraling guilt (from failing to get it all done). But there is a way out, Good habits - planning, organization and focus - can unlock the prison of "not enough time." Check out these five time-management pointers, culled from experts, and let the tips set your free.
1. Focus on values.
Instead of going full throttle at every task, invest time in identifying your core values. Then, schedule selectively. Take a look at your life and determine which activities are vital: high-payoff, crucial, life- or business-sustaining.
How to: Break activities into categories - family, work, friends, home, self. Assign a different highlighter color to each category. A glance at the color-code schedule will reveal how balanced (or unbalanced, as the case may be) your life is.
Then, set aside an hour on a Sunday to ask yourself what's really important. Make a list and grab your calendar. If you love art, schedule museum trips like you would a dental appointment. If family time is key, designate one day per month as a family outing day. Think creatively.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150101baa59bf05e3c9d030db741695f91d3a275b01ab779aa1f8cba6abf9059c44dba806.wma
Time often holds us hostage. We wrestle with endless to-do lists, pressurized deadlines and spiraling guilt (from failing to get it all done). But there is a way out, Good habits - planning, organization and focus - can unlock the prison of "not enough time." Check out these five time-management pointers, culled from experts, and let the tips set your free.
1. Focus on values.
Instead of going full throttle at every task, invest time in identifying your core values. Then, schedule selectively. Take a look at your life and determine which activities are vital: high-payoff, crucial, life- or business-sustaining.
How to: Break activities into categories - family, work, friends, home, self. Assign a different highlighter color to each category. A glance at the color-code schedule will reveal how balanced (or unbalanced, as the case may be) your life is.
Then, set aside an hour on a Sunday to ask yourself what's really important. Make a list and grab your calendar. If you love art, schedule museum trips like you would a dental appointment. If family time is key, designate one day per month as a family outing day. Think creatively.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150101baa59bf05e3c9d030db741695f91d3a275b01ab779aa1f8cba6abf9059c44dba806.wma
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