Leatherby's Family Creamery - Elk Grove (Sacramento Area)

I went to Leatherby's with my friend for dinner last weekend. This is primarily an ice cream parlour, but they also make quality hamburgers, sandwiches, salads - traditional American meals. 

This time, I was facing the counter where the ice cream, sundaes, shakes, and other sweets were prepared and awaiting to be served.  Each dessert was a masterpiece!

Anyway, I already decided that next time I will order a root beer float with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream as depicted in the picture above.

This time I ordered a liverwurst sandwich meal from the specials menu. The meal comes with a sandwich, side, dessert, and drink (if you don't choose the shake). What a great deal! I liked the liverwurst sandwich; it has liver's flavor and is soft and fatty- very delicious!

I chose a garden salad with honey mustard dressing on the side!

My friend ordered a french dip sandwich with a side of coleslaw; however, the beef was overly salty and dry.

Here's all the food!

Finally, I chose a milk shake as my dessert.  You can choose any flavor of ice cream they have, and they will make it into a milkshake. I insisted on my favorite flavor: cookies 'n cream!

Super Sports, Super Fan! (2)

After foot ball season, "March Madness" begins. The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) tournament begins with 68 men's college basketball teams. They play until the field is reduced to the "Final Four."

The winning team becomes the national champion. The NBA (National Basketball Association) All-Star Game is also held in February. The best players from all the teams play in this game. Baseball is no doubt American's national sport. From grandpas to young kids, whole families go to ball games together.

They wear their favorite team's caps or even carry their mascot. Our family went to watch Wang Chien-Ming play in D.C. once. We ate hot dogs, waved flags and sang during the 7th inning stretch. If you're not a sports fan yet, come and pick a sport or a team. Go to a ball game with your family, and cheer your team on. Sports are definitely a part of American culture one should not miss.

Editor's Summary
And in March, we see that March Madness begins, basketball.
March Madness means everyone is watching college basketball.
And this is after watching the All-Star basketball game, played by professionals.
And you can't forget baseball.
It's called America's national sport by many.
Pauline and her family went to a game once to see Wang Chien-Ming play.
It was a family experience.
Sports are popular in the states, and Pauline's descriptions are very very accurate.


Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Superstitious Athletes
有許多的職業運動員都非常的迷信,
例如, never step on the foul line 因為會帶來 bad luck


Grammar Gym
from grandpas to young kids
- From grandpas to young kids, whole families go to ball games together.

From [type 1] to [type 2]
- From large English sheepdogs to tiny Chihuahuas, all kinds of dogs could be seen at the dog show.
- From thick slices of roast beef to delicate little pastries, our choices at the buffet were amazing.


Language Lab
athletic adj.
relating to athletics
- The intense training really strengthened the trainees' athletic ability.
physically strong and good at sport
- Larry looks very athletic even though he's over 60.
athlete n.
someone who competes in sports competitions, especially running, jumping, and throwing
- Charles is a natural athlete.

no doubt
without doubt or with very little doubt — used when you are making a statement that you think is certainly or almost certainly true
- Claire is no doubt the most popular girl in our high school.
- There's no doubt about Nick's ability to manage the company.

mascot n.
/ˈmæˌskɑ:t/
a person, animal, or object used as a symbol to represent a group (such as a sports team) and to bring good luck
- Our school's mascot is a brown bear.
- The "friendlies" were the mascots of the 2008 Olympic Games.

definitely adv.
without doubt : in a way that is certain or clear
- Sharing the office with another company will definitely lower our costs.
definite adj.
said or done in a such way that others know exactly what you mean
- Can you give me a definite date for your payment?


mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140225baa14d1f014cfee3ddb943e45d1b93142a54b3de5fa55d60f81dd2df397001f2440.wma

Super Sports, Super Fan! (1)

So many sports to choose from

On "Super Bowl Sunday," millions of Americans are glued to their TVs. They are eating pizza, chicken wings and chips and cheering every move. They're watching the Super Bowl, the most popular American football game of the year.

Why are Americans so crazy about American football? Well, it is more exciting than other sports. One team can lose possession of the ball in a minute, which may allow their opponents to make a touchdown. Then that team may win the game unexpectedly!

The Super Bowl also entertains its audience with a great halftime show. The football field is turned into a stage. Then an impressive performance of dancing and singing with special effects occurs.

Since the Super Bowl is the most-watched TV program in America, commercial airtime is also very expensive. Big money is also spent on the commercials. They draw the viewers' attention and advertise their image or products during the commercial break.


Editor's Summary
It's February, and we see that Pauline wrote about America's favorite pastime, sports.

Her description of Super Bowl Sunday is very accurate.

People glued to their TVs, eating snacks and watching the Super Bowl, the World Series of football.

The two best teams are playing for the top honor.

The Super Bowl also provides great entertainment, with stars performing at halftime.

And the commercials are some of the best and funniest on TV.


Grammar Gym
glued: not willing to be apart from
- On "Super Bowl Sunday," millions of Americans are glued to their TVs.
- Betty is glued to her phone: She is always chatting with her friends.
- My dog is glued to its new toy. He is always carrying it around.


Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Football Widows

美國的美式足球開打時, 大部份的男生都會專注於比賽,
今天課文用 glued to the TV 黏在電視機前來形容美國人對美式足球的瘋狂,
當所有的男人都只花時間在他們支持的隊伍加油時,
他們的另一伴就像失去老公一樣, 像是足球寡婦
每年的八月到隔年的二月超級盃打完為止,
每個週末, 女生都會受到先先的冷若
好再現在有很多資源可以幫助很多夫婦渡過足球季

Language Lab
possession n.
the condition of having or owning something
- The bank is now entitled to possession of the house since the owner has failed to pay the mortgage.
[count] : something that is owned or possessed by someone
- Victor lost all his possessions during the earthquake.

touchdown n.
an act of moving the ball across the opposing team's goal line in American football
- When our school football team made a touchdown, everyone cheered.
the moment at which a plane or spacecraft lands
- The pilot made a perfect touchdown despite poor weather conditions.

entertain v.
to amuse or interest people in a way that gives them pleasure
- The parents of the birthday boy hired a clown to entertain the kids at the birthday party.
entertainment n.
things such as films, television, performances etc that are intended to amuse or interest people
- The cruise ship offers great family entertainment.

impressive adj.
something that is impressive makes you admire it because it is very good, large, important etc
- His impressive performance at the audition won him the role.
impress v.
to make someone feel admiration and respect:
- Brenda's speech at the awards ceremony impressed everyone present.

halftime vs. intermission
a short break between the parts of a performance (such as a play, movie, or concert)



mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140224baae839f608ac242565680464be6a7e4843eeb4ddc9ba94cdb1f3b38bc8701b5c8c.wma

Winter Wonderland (2)

Despite these troubles, snow can also be exciting, especially if you love to ski. I remember when we went to Colorado for a ski camp years ago. We started by attending a beginners' class. We learned how to slide, stop, turn and get up after a fall.

The coach also introduced us to the gear. The boots were so heavy that I couldn't walk steadily. Then we learned how to use the poles to change direction or stop.

The beginners' class was full of kids under 8. They moved so fast and learned so quickly that we adults could hardly catch up. My husband was brave enough to try the challenging "black-diamond trail," which is usually steep and not groomed. As for me, I stayed on the beginners' hill for a little while. Then I went inside to sip my sweet hot chocolate. I sat back and enjoyed the natural beauty of the snow. It was a once-in-a-life time experience.

Info Cloud
美國州名來源
Connecticut 康乃迪克州(印第安語, 在一條長長的河流旁)
Vermont 佛蒙特州(法語, 綠色的山)
New Jersey 紐澤西州(源自Jersey island in English Channel)
Colorado 科羅拉多州(西班牙文, 被塗成紅色colored red, 因為有很多紅色石頭)
California 加利福尼亞州(一本 16 世紀西班牙文小說中的天堂)

Grammar Gym
As for me, I stayed on the beginners' hill for a little while.
as for me: for my part
- Everyone wanted to go out and play. As for me, I was happy to stay at home.
- My teammates all thought the proposal was a bad idea. As for me, I think we should give it a try.

Language Lab
ski v.
past tense and past participle skied, present participle skiing, third person singular skis
to move on skis for sport or in order to travel on snow or water
- Joyce went skiing with her family last weekend.
- Wesley skied a lot when he was in college.
ski n.
a long thin narrow piece of strong material, fastened under a small vehicle so that it can travel on snow
- These skis were made from an extra-light material.

steadily adv.
/ˈstɛdəli/ adverb [more steadily; most steadily]
- The racecar accelerated steadily.
- The tent held steadily even in the strong wind.
steady adj.
continuing or developing gradually or without stopping, and not likely to change
- The company's sales grew at a steady rate.

groom v.
to prepare someone for an important job or position in society by training them over a long period;
to take care of your own appearance by keeping your hair and clothes clean and tidy
- The ski runs have been groomed for the big tournament tomorrow.
- The girls spent hours grooming for the prom

sip v.
/ˈsɪp/
past tense and past participle sipped, present participle sipping
to drink something slowly, taking very small mouthfuls
- Annie sipped her coffee slowly because it was very hot.
sip n.
a very small amount of a drink
- Natalie took a sip of her tea to calm down.


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140104_dd146.wmv

Winter Wonderland (1)

What winter is really like

"Is it snowing?" That is the question my children often asked when we first moved to America. Growing up on a subtropical island, we had a fantasy about a snowy winter wonderland. We imagined the falling snow or a family sitting around their fireplace enjoying steaming hot chocolate. It seemed so cozy. In reality, snow can be really messy.

I can understand why kids love snow. They get two hours, a half day or a whole day off from school. Then the playtime begins. The kids build snowman, slide down hills on snowboards or have snowball fights.

For adults, it is not that much fun. Most cities and communities have snowplows to remove the snow from streets. They also spread salt mixed with sand to prevent ice on sidewalks and roadways. But cleaning our own driveway is such a bother. We have to shovel off the snow ourselves. If we don't, the icy surface can be dangerous.


Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Retronyms
Retronyms 重新創造的字(字意需被重新定義) [retro - 昔日的, 復古的]

hot chocolate:
chocolate 早期指熱可可, 現指巧克力磚或巧克力糖, 所以熱可可需要新的字來說明

snail mail/mail 原始的紙本郵件, 有別現今email, 較慢故稱snail
acoustic guitar/guitar 傳統吉他, 有別電子吉他

Grammar Gym
We have to shovel off the snow ourselves.
ourselves - reflexive pronoun  反身代名詞
myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, oneself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves
by ourselves:
to add emphasis and show subject alone and nothing or no one else is involved
- Since no one is around to help me, I will do this myself.
- The boss signed every Christmas card himself.
- Students in this internship program have to take care of every detail themselves.

Language Lab
subtropical adj. [sub-次要, 附屬]
relating to or living in an area that is close to tropical parts of the world
- We gradually got used the country's subtropical climate.
- This rare species of plant only grows in subtropical regions.

fantasy n.
the act of imagining something
- Greg indulges in fantasy occasionally.
- This kind of fantasy only happens in movies, not in real life.
something that is produced by the imagination : an idea about doing something that is far removed from normal reality [noncount]
- Many girls have a fantasy of meeting their Prince Charming when they grow up.

remove v. [re字首: away]
to move or take (something) away from a place
- The doctor removed the bullet from the cop's arm.
- As soon as the timer goes off, remove the cake from the oven.

shovel v.
to lift and throw (dirt, sand, snow, etc.) with a shovel
- It took us an hour to shovel the snow off our driveway.
- The boy shoveled all the food on this plate into his mouth.
n.
[count]  : a tool with a long handle that is used for lifting and throwing dirt, sand, snow, etc.
- We need a shovel and a bucket to build sand castles.


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20140103_d79d4.wmv

Give Thanks (2)

The next day is a big sale day called Black Friday. The Christmas season officially begins then, and people want to buy Christmas gifts as early as possible. Also, Black Friday successfully tempts consumers to spend their money on discounted or hot sale items. Some stores open as early as midnight. you can hardly find a spot in the parking lot in front of a mall or a big retail store.

After Black Friday, people are given another chance to "Shop til you Drop" - Cyber Monday. Cyber Monday is designed for shoppers who prefer to shop online. Just click, and your order will arrive within a couple of days.

We are very thankful for our family and friends back home. They have supported and encouraged us over the past year. We are also thankful for the new friends we have met in the U.S. They have welcomed us, helped us and taken us in. With gratitude in our hearts, we wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

Info Cloud
Black Friday 黑色星期五
1960s美國費城的警察創造的。因為一年一度的陸軍和海軍足球賽在這一天舉行，於是來自各地的球迷湧進費城，加上聖誕節前的採購民眾，使得城裡交通大亂，負責指揮交通的警察，稱這一天為Black Friday，因為大家心情都不好。1980s有人覺得Black Friday太負面，就用會計學in the black(有盈餘)，解釋Black Friday.

Language Lab
discount v. n.打折、減價
an amount taken off a regular price : a price reduction
- The department store discounts all items 10 percent for VIPS.
這家百貨公司為VIP貴賓，提供所有商品九折優惠
- You can get an extra 5 percent discount if you are a member.
如果你是會員，可以再打0.5折 parking lot停車場
- There's an underground parking lot near here.
這附近有一個地下停車場

parking space 停車格、停車位
space in which vehicles can be parked
- The guy rudely took my parking space.
這個男人粗魯的搶我的停車位
parking structure整棟停車場、立體停車場
- The parking structure can hold over 400 cars. 這座立體停車場可以容納四百部車

click v. n.點選、按
to press a button on a mouse or some other device in order to make something happen on a computer [+ obj]
- Click on the printer icon, and choose the format.
按影印機的圖示，選舉要印的型式
n. the act of selecting something on a computer screen by pressing a button on a mouse or some other device
- With just one click, you can transfer money to an overseas bank.
只要輕輕一點，你就可以把錢轉到海外銀

gratitude n.感激、感恩
/ˈgrætəˌtu:d,/
a feeling of appreciation or thanks
- I would like to express my gratitude to everyone here.
我想要對每一位在場的人表達感激之情
- Hank prepared this bouquet of flowers to show his gratitude to his teacher.
Hank準備這束花，要表達他對老師的感激


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20131121_c237e.wmv

Give Thanks (1)

The fourth Thursday in November welcomes the holiday season

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. This holiday not only involves football and turkey but also helps us remember to be thankful. Traditionally Americans go home for Thanksgiving. So people start preparing weeks before the holiday. Excited moms are eager to have their children come home. Thanksgiving is also a season for giving. Irene's school has a "Turkey Trot" race every year around Thanksgiving.You can give small amounts of money for charity to run in the race.

In our neighborhood, the Boy Scouts go door to door asking for canned food for the needy. Churches and charities sponsor coat drives for families who need winter coats. Some teen groups volunteer at homeless shelters on weekends. They either prepare food or help serve it. What does our family do? We usually go to our church potluck. The dishes are mostly Chinese, but the church prepares turkeys and pumpkin and apple pies. Afterward, we sing and share what we are thankful for in the past year.


Grammar Gym
weeks before = several weeks before to switch weeks before to days before, hours before, minutes before....
- So people start preparing weeks before the holiday.
- Zack finished his report weeks before the due date.
- Sharon's suitcase was already packed days before her Christmas break.
- Janice's friends came to see her hours before her surgery.
- Minutes before her train arrived, Martha realized she had lost her ticket.

Info Cloud
neighborhood n.
1.街坊、住家鄰近地區 a friendly neighborhood友善的區
a rough neighborhood治安不好的區 a leafy neighborhood有很多樹的區，指中產階級住的區
2.接近(通常連接數字) in the neighborhood of $800指八百美金左右
district行政區、 township小鎮，都是政府規劃的行政區

Language Lab
around the corner (idiom)就在轉角處；即將來臨、迫在眉睫
coming or happening very soon
- Bryan's graduation ceremony is just around the corner.
Bryan的畢業典禮就要到了
- The grocery store is around the corner.
雜貨店的位置在轉角處

eager adj.熱切的、急切的 eagerness n.
very excited and interested
- Charles is eager to play on the football team.
Charles很希望能加入足球隊
- Kate is eager to please her parents.
Kate迫切的想要取悅她的父母
- His eagerness to win made him really nervous during the game.
他的求勝心，造成他在比賽中非常緊張

shelter n. v.遮蔽之處、庇護所、避難所
a structure that covers or protects people or things
- We took shelter under a tree during the rain.
下雨時，我們躲在樹下
- The church provides shelter for abused women.
 教堂提供受虐婦女庇護所
v.
- The village was sheltered by mountains.
這個村莊被群山保護著

potluck n.百樂餐(參加聚餐者，每人各帶菜餚，共享的餐會)；家常便飯
a meal to which everyone who is invited brings food to share
- Mandy took her famous beef stew to the potluck.
Mandy帶了她最拿手的燉牛肉，來百樂餐
- You're welcome to stay for dinner if you don't mind potluck.
如果你不介意家常便飯，歡迎留下來晚餐

mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20131120_c0815.wmv

Fall Festivals in Maryland (2)

The wonderful Maryland Renaissance Festival takes place every weekend in the fall. Workers and actors dress like people from the Middle Ages and welcome all visitors. Comedies, talk shows, children's plays and stage dramas are performed throughout the day. A Midsummer Night's Dream is a big production as well. In addition, magic shows, sword fights and more attract audiences in every corner of the "village."

You can spot the king and queen greeting people or pausing for photos. Several sports and games are demonstrated in the arena. We actually tried using the bows and arrows while others participated in the tug of war game. The high point is the jousts. Two teams compete for the highest honor and rewards from the king and queen. The knights ride horses and use spear-like weapons to knock their opponents down. The audience is divided into two groups to cheer for their teams.

The food is traditional and tasty. We loved the big turkey legs and barbecue ribs. No forks or knives are needed.


Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: The Genius of Shakespeare

Our lesson today mentions a play without mentioning the playwright who wrote it.

There's no need, because we already know who wrote it: William Shakespeare.

And, Shakespeare is a name that needs no introduction.
He's the greatest English writer ever.

Four hundred years after his death, we're still reading his poetry, staging his plays, and making movies based on his works.

Shakespeare's contribution to the English language was massive.
He introduced over 1700 new vocabulary words into English, many of which we still use today.

From A Midsummer Night's Dream for example, came the words, flowery, rival, and mimic.

And then, there are the many words and phrases and common expressions that Shakespeare coined. From the same drama came the now familiar words and phrases: pale face, swift as a shadow, and fancy-free.

Shakespeare was also good at taking an existing word and creating a new form of it.
An example, which also comes from A Midsummer Night's Dream, is the word "moonbeam."

OK. Shakespeare had a tremendous vocabulary.
He used almost 18,000 different words in his writings, a tenth of which had never been used before.
Now, imagine, if every tenth word you used was an original word.


needs no introduction 不需要介紹，指家喻戶曉、大名鼎鼎的人
本文中提到 A midsummer Night's Dream (仲夏夜之夢)
並沒有說明是誰寫的,
因為它的作者 Shakespeare (莎士比亞)是一位不需要介紹的人

Shakespeare：
1.是歷史上最偉大的英文作家, 直到死後四百年, 世人還在閱讀他寫的詩、演出他寫的戲劇或拍他的劇本改編的電影
2.英文單字中, 有超過1700個字是他創造的,
如：flowery, rival, mimic, fancy-free 都是源自於仲夏夜之夢


Language Lab
comedy n.喜劇；喜劇成分、喜劇性
a play, movie, television program, novel, etc., that is meant to make people laugh
things that are done and said to make an audience laugh : comic entertainment
the funny or amusing part of something : humor
- Renee enjoys romantic comedies.
Renee喜歡看浪漫愛情的喜劇
- When the professor suddenly forgot his points, it provided some good comedy during the dull lecture.
當教授突然忘記他的重點時，這時提供了無趣講座中的一些樂趣

pause v. n.暫停、停頓
a temporary stop : a period of time in which something is stopped before it is started again
a control that you use when you want to stop a recorded song, movie, etc., for a short time
- Vivian paused awhile to calm down before continuing her speech.
Vivian停頓一下，安定情緒之後，繼續她的演講
- Theo had to pause to clear his throat.
Theo必須停下來，清一下喉嚨。
- After a long pause, Richard started to talk again.
經過很長時間的停頓，Richard又開始說話

opponent n.對手、敵手
a person, team, group, etc., that is competing against another in a contest
- The team studied their opponent's strategies before the game.
這支隊伍比賽前研究他們對手的戰略
- Nathan and Tom are business opponents, but they are also very close friends.
Nathan和Tom是生意上的競爭對手，但也是非常要好的朋友

cheer v.喝采、歡呼
to shout with joy, approval, or enthusiasm
- The crowd cheered at the player made a rebound.
當這位球員籃板球得分時，觀眾發出歡呼
- Lawry's family and friends drove all the way from San Francisco to cheer for him.
Lawry的家人朋友特地從舊金山開車來為他加油

Fall Festivals in Maryland (1)

Fun in the fall

In October, a variety of produce is ripe and ready for people to enjoy. The pick-your-own fruit and vegetable farms and orchards are open to the public. Apples, pumpkins and other vegetables wait! Haystacks are built for children to jump on. This is family fun during the harvest season.

When we arrived at the apple orchard, we saw many people pushing handcarts from the parking lot to the orchard. But we just grabbed two big baskets, which we filled up quickly. After walking around the orchard with two baskets of apples, I knew why people had chosen the handcart!

Our next stop was the pumpkin patch. We could choose pumpkins from piles or pick our own. Many Americans put pumpkins on their front steps at Halloween. Some carve a face in a pumpkin and put a candle in it. They call this decoration a jack-o-lantern. We could 't leave without buying some homemade apple desserts. Fresh hot or cold apple cider is also perfect for the season.

Grammar Gym
"Apples, pumpkins and other vegetables wait!"
wait
1. if you are waiting for something that you expect or hope will happen or arrive, it has not happened or arrived yet:
- I need to wait for the bus.
2. to be ready or available
- When the kids got home, they found dinner waiting on the table.
- The manager has a stack of reports waiting on his desk as well as several phone calls to return.

Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Compound Words

Today, let's highlight one of the ways English words come into existence through the formation of compound words.

Ok. Compound words are made up of what we call primary words- what we might call the basic building blocks of English.
Primary words are simple nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, and pronoun, like the words, sun, run, fun, so, and you.
Now, two or primary words in any combination can produce a compound word.

Compound words come in three forms.
Let's look at each form in the order it appears in today's lesson.
The first is the hyphenated form, like "take-your-own."
In this example, we see three primary words brought together, but separated by hyphens, to form one new word.

The second compound form is the closed form, which are two primary words stuck together back-to-back.
We see a few of these in today's lesson, like "haystack" and "handcart."

The third form is the open form, two primary words separated by a space.
A little further along in the lesson, we see an example, "parking lot."

Ok. Knowing how compound words are created will enable you to create some new English words of your own.
Hey, who says you can't?

compound words複合詞
由兩個或兩個以上的primary words(基本字)組成的，共有三種類型：
1.由hyphen連字組成的
- The pick-your-own fruit and vegetable farms.
2.將兩個基本字合併成一個字，如haystacks, handcart, haircut, greenhouse..etc.
3.兩個分開的基本字，如parking lot,high school, post office..etc.

Language Lab
produce n.農產品
food or other things that have been grown or produced on a farm to be sold
- The produce in the open-air market looks so fresh.
這個露天市場的農產品看起來很新鮮
produce v.製作、生產
to make, write etc something to be bought, used, or enjoyed by people
- The award-winning team produced many blockbusters.
這個得獎的團隊製作過許多電影巨片

grab v.抓取 grabbed-grabbing
to take hold of someone or something with a sudden or violent movement
- The police officer grabbed the thief's arm and arrested him.
警官抓住了小偷的手臂，並且逮捕他
- The boy grabbed a handful of cookies from the jar.
這個男孩從罐子裡抓起滿手的餅乾

decoration n.裝飾、裝飾品；裝潢
something that is added to something else to make it more attractive
- The decorations for the surprise party were hung last night.
這個驚喜派對的裝飾品，昨晚就掛起來了
- The unique style of decoration of the cafe attracts a lot of customers.
這家咖啡店獨特風格的裝潢，吸引了許多顧客

homemade adj.自製的、自家做的
made in the home and not in a factory, store, etc.
- Grandma's homemade jam is famous in the neighborhood.
奶奶自製的果醬在鄰里間非常出名
- Mom always keeps homemade lemonade in our fridge.
媽媽總是會在冰箱裡預備自製的檸檬汁

“Country Roads, Take Me Home” (2)

After leaving Skyline Drive, we visited a well-known cave, Luray Caverns. Found in 1878, this cave is one of the most spectacular caves in the world. We were amazed by the limestone shapes inside. The most famous one is the world's largest musical instrument, the Great "Stalacpipe" Organ. Fortunately, we were able to hear a piece of music.

Other famous formations include Dream Lake, Totem Poles and Saracen's Tent. Dream Lake is a mirror-like surface which reflects the stalactites above the lake.

The Totem Poles are columns of various shapes and colors. Saracen's Tent is considered the best well-formed drapery in the world. Walking around this underground natural wonder is an unforgettable experience. On the way back home, we rolled down the windows and enjoyed the autumn breeze. Suddenly, the winding road looked like the road we had often taken on Yang-Ming Mountain in Taipei. As the song say, these country roads are taking me home - to the place I belong!


Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: How We Name Places Part II

Last week, we looked at how some places get named. Let's pick up this theme again today in this month's "Life in America" feature.

We first encounter Skyline Drive. Now, with a name like that, I'm excepting a road high up in the sky.

Right! Normally, the word "skyline" is used to describe the view of a city's buildings and structures against the sky.

In this case, however, it's the view of mountain scenery from a road.

OK. Luray Caverns is simply named after the nearest town - Luray, Virginia.

The next three things mentioned in the lesson are formations, not places, but it's easy to guess how they got their names.

Dream Lake is named for the feeling you get when you see it. When you look at it, you feel like you're dreaming.

Hmm huh... Formations might also be named for the things they resemble, like totem poles, and a tent. Saracen is an ancient word used to describe people who lived in and around the Arabian desert in tent.

And, finally, places are named in honor of other people, like Yan-Ming Shan, which was named in honor of the Chinese Ming dynasty philosopher, Wang Yan-Ming.


Language Lab
amaze v.
to surprise and sometimes confuse (someone) very much : to fill (someone) with wonder [+ obj]
- The little girl's singing talent amazed not only the audience but also the judges.
amazing adj.
causing great surprise or wonder : causing amazement
- The movie's amazing special effects were created by an award-winning team.

formation n.
the act of forming or creating something
- Timmy loves to study the formations of the clouds.
something that is formed or created
- The formation of a child's personality is strongly affected by his family and friends.

column n.
a long post made of steel, stone, etc., that is used as a support in a building
- The marble columns of the building were delicately carved.
a group of printed or written items (such as numbers or words) shown one under the other down a page
- Each page of the brochure has two columns.
an article in a newspaper or magazine that appears regularly and that is written by a particular writer or deals with a particular subject
- This fashion column is quite popular among female readers.

breeze n.
a gentle wind
- You can feel a cool summer breeze blowing in the valley.
to move quickly and confidently
- Alex breezed into our meeting as if he were the one who called the shots.


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130919_6f2cb.wmv

mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130919baa5a50391fc1b2485c1ea74e78958342f962f3937725d99a7429f7499ace26c816.wma

“Country Roads, Take Me Home” (1)

Almost Heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River”

Fall is probably the most beautiful season of the year. The cooler temperatures make it perfect for people to enjoy nature. For Asians, Moon Festival makes autumn a unique season. But here, not much attention is given to Moon Festival. Instead, Americans appreciate this season in a different way. As the tree leaves change color, it is time for a fall leaf tour. One of North America's most popular spots is Shenandoah National Park.

John Denver described it in his song "Take Me Home Country Roads." Skyline Drive, which runs through the park, attracts over 2 million visitors every year.They go to admire the fall leaves. Like most leaf peepers, we left early on a Saturday. A long line of cars was already waiting to enter the park. We drove at a leisurely pace and enjoyed the gold, orange and red leaves. Overlooks provided places to take pictures. Around bends, valleys of different shades of colors caught our eye.


Grammar Gym
The Skyline Drive, which runs through the park, attracts over 2 million visitors every year.
to run: how something long and skinny goes through an area
- A river runs through the middle of the jungle.
- The power lines run along the east side of the building.

Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Rolling Off the Tongue
Leaf peepers are people who travel some distance to look at and take pictures of fall foliage.

And because of the unusual scenic beauty, I would imagine peepers would want to take their time peeping.

Which means the word "peep" isn't exactly the best word choice. Because according to the dictionary, peep means to take a quick look at something. So why was this word ever chosen to be paired with the word "leaf".

One reason could be meaning. Generally, when people peep, they do it because they are curious. And I think curiosity is one reason people spend time and money to go look at colorful leaves.

True. But there is also the issue of sound. When combined with leaf, peep really rolls off the tongue, which means it's easy to say.

Right! Both words have the long 'e' sound. Leaf, peep, if we were to choose better verbs that suggest a leisurely look at something, verbs like "stare" or "gaze", in place of peep, the phrases become more complicated to pronounce.

They may be more accurate in meaning. But, listen. "Leaf starers" and "leaf gazers", these phrases don't quite roll off the tongue like "leaf peeper" does. Do they.


Language Lab
unique adj.
used to say that something or someone is unlike anything or anyone else
uni- prefix
one : single
- The jazz singer's unique voice is very charming.
- The region has its own unique dialect and customs.
uniqueness n. [noncount]
- Each student's uniqueness should be recognized and respected.

instead adv.
/ɪnˈstɛd/
— used to say that one thing is done or that one thing or person is chosen when another is not chosen, cannot be done, etc.
- After winning the lottery, Jonah didn't quit his job; instead, he has kept working at the same company.
instead off — often + of
- Margaret got laid off, but instead of feeling down, she went on a vacation.

admire v.
to look at (something or someone) with enjoyment
- We stood in front of the waterfall admiring the view.
to feel respect or approval for (someone or something)
- The general's character and courage is greatly admired by his colleagues.

shade n.
/ˈʃeɪd/
an area of slight darkness that is produced when something blocks the light of the sun
- The designer used different shades of pink on the gown.
- There're over 100 shades of eye color on display.
something that is used to block strong light
- We stood in the shade of the tree.


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130918_e39f4.wmv

mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130918baa4e20ee10ff850c2c9f31f4ed52f2a8ffd4d6d0210a0aea2a5cd74cad07c55afd.wma

Back to school (2)

Many students attend summer school for two sessions, each for three weeks. It usually runs five days a week for four hours a day, plus homework and exams. Most high schools provide intensive courses in summer. Students can take a course and move to the next level when the school year officially starts. The perfect place to say goodbye to summer vacation is the annual county fair. All kinds of carnival rides attract entire families. Traditional American food is served everywhere - hot dogs, pretzels, cotton candy, barbeque... Be sure to go when you're hungry!

The fair is also a place for displays of farm produce. Many farmers also attend the farm-animal competitions. Kids love the horse shows and goat-milking contest. Fun contests like watermelon-seed spitting and tricycle races interest the younger children. Women and girls go to exhibitions of quilts and flowers.

Soon the fairground will be quiet. Instead, kids will gather at the school-bus stop. Summer vacation is over.

Info Cloud 
exhibit/exhibition

Let's talk about the difference between exhibition and exhibit.

Now, you must be thinking simple. Exhibition is a noun, and exhibit is a verb.

Very true, but the word "exhibit" can also be a noun. Exhibit can be defined as something that is displayed or shown to the public.

So, what's the difference? The answer is scale. An exhibit is a public showing of an object, usually a work of art or an object meant to educate, or a small collection of objects.

An exhibition, on the other hand, is a public showing of a large selection of such items, often united by a theme. For example, a dinosaur skeleton in the lobby of a museum is an exhibit. And a collection of dinosaur skeletons in a wing of the museum might be called an exhibition.

Other times, an exhibition is regarded as an event with limited duration and a separate admission fee.

Language Lab
intensive adj.
involving a lot of activity, effort, or careful attention in a short period of time
- The players underwent intensive training before the football season began.
intense adj.
having a very strong effect or felt very strongly
- The poem shows the author's intense feelings toward his first love.

officially adv.
publicly or formally
- The couple officially announced their wedding date.
official adj.
approved of or done by someone in authority, especially the government
- The press is still waiting for the police's official statement regarding this case.

competition  n.
- The fierce competition among the contestants on the game show attracted a large audience.
compete v.
- Boys love to compete with each other while playing.

quilt n.
/ˈkwɪlt/
a bed cover with stitched designs that is made of two layers of cloth filled with wool, cotton, or soft feathers
- Pamela's grandma made a quilt for her wedding gift.
- The design on the quilt is a beautiful butterfly.

fairground n.
an open space on which a fair takes place


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130813_06ff6.wmv

Why Community College? (2)

There are several advantages to attending a community college. First, the tuition is lower than a four-year university, especially if you're a resident. Residents pay the in-county or in-state tuition rate. Second, the credits are mostly transferrable to a four-year university. You transfer in as a sophomore or junior. Last, smaller class sizes mean students have more chances to talk with their professors.

After admission, Michelle, along with most other international students , took tests in English, reading and math.

The advising department then reviewed the test results. They then put the students in an English language program to prepare them for an American college. The courses include writing/grammar, reading, speaking/listening and note-taking.

Registration is completed, the tuition is paid, and an official student ID card is in hand. What's next? Attending new student orientation!

A good community college is Michelle's choice for her first-year experience in American higher education. We support her and wish her a successful college life!


Info Cloud
next 下一個/要來的那一個

這是容易搞不清楚的字,
例如: 今天是2013/7/23 星期二,
如果你說 next Friday,
有人會認為是要來的這個星期五, 也就是7/26
但是也會有人認為是下個星期五 8/2

next right 前面右手邊的第一條路, 或是過了那條路的下一條呢

不同的人會有不同的理解, 因此要用到next這個字的時候,
要加入更詳細的解釋, 像是日期或路名等等, 以避免誤會

Language Lab
advantage n.優點,好處 — opposite disadvantage
something that helps you to be more successful than others, or the state of having this
a good or useful quality or condition that something has
- One of the many advantages to car-pooling is that you can lower your expenses.
disadvantage n. 不利條件
something that causes problems, or that makes someone or something less likely to be successful or effective
- Postponing the election will be to the party's disadvantage.

admission n.入取, 準許入學
(說明入取那間學校用to 介細系)
the process of allowing people to enter a university, institution etc, or the number of people who can enter
- Many people applied for admission to this art school, but only a few were accepted.
admission n. 進入
permission given to someone to enter a building or place, or to become a member of a school, club etc
- The admission fee to the park is $10.

advising department n.資詢部門
advising (動名詞)/ advise v.給予建議
to tell someone what you think they should do, especially when you know more than they do about something
- The staff in the advising department will give you some suggestions about what courses to take.

higher education n.高等教育(包含大專, 大學, 研究所)
college or university education as opposed to school or high school
- The higher education budget was increased last year.
- Higher education is still not easily available for disadvantaged families.



mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130723_18d50.wmv

Why Community College? (1)

Do you have to start at a four-year university?

Before we moved to the U.S., we did some research regarding the children's future studies. My elder daughter, Michelle, had just graduated from high school. What would be her best choice for a college education? After much discussion, we decided on community college.

Why did we make this choice? Many think community colleges are only for senior citizens after retirement. Well, yes and no. Most community colleges provide lifelong learning opportunities for people from all walks of life. They offer some non-credit course like art and computer skills for those interested in personal enrichment.

But in America, a community college is also a perfect place to earn an associate's degree. You can also get a certificate for a career or improve your job skills. And you can transfer credits to a four-year university.

My daughter's goal is to pursue a bachelor's degree. She plans to take the necessary general education courses in community college in two years. Then she will transfer to a four-year university.

Info Cloud
yes and no 是, 但是不盡然
當我們問一個問題時, 通常回答是Yes/No,
但如果對方回答yes and no 那又是什麼意思呢
今天課文說到, 許多社區大學, 只收退休後的人,
作者接著說 Well, yes and no.  ( 是, 但是不盡然)
意思就是你所說的只有部份正確, 但也有不正確的地方,
因此當你聽到回答是yes and no 的時候, 後面就會接著更詳盡的回答

Grammar Gym
all walks of life:
people from all social, economic, or ethnic groups
- Most community colleges provide lifelong learning opportunities for people from all walks of life.
- At any major international airport, you can see people from all walks of life.
- Going to the public park is a great place to see people from all walks of life.

Language Lab
credit n. 學校的學分
a unit that measures a student's progress towards earning a degree in a school, college, etc.
- English Literature counts as four credits toward your degree.
就學位來看, 英國文學這堂課算四個學分
- The aerobic course is a non-credit course.
有氧舞課是沒有學分的課
- Roy already has two credits in art history.
Roy 已經修了藝術歷史的二個學分的課

enrichment n. 豐富, 充實 [noncount]
/ɪnˈrɪtʃmənt/
- Thomas sees traveling as an enrichment of life.
Thomas 視旅遊為人生充實的方式
enrich v. 使...豐富, 使...充實
to make (someone) rich or richer
to improve the quality of (something) : to make (something) better
- Painting really enriched my life. It opened up a new world to me.
繪畫使我的人生更豐富, 它為我開啟了一個新的世界

degree 學位
associate's degree 大專學位, 二年制
bachelor's degree 四年制學士學位
- One of the job requirements is an associate's degree in accounting.
這個工作的基本要求就是要有會計的大專學位

certificate n.職照, 職業證明
/sɚˈtɪfɪkət/ (注意a的發音)
a document that is official proof that something has happened
birth certificate 出生證明
marriage certificate 結婚證書
certification n. 認證
/ˌsɚtəfəˈkeɪʃən/
- The certification of the applicants' qualifications takes about a week.
申請者的資格認證需要大約一個星期的時間


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130722_aa59f.wmv


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130723_18d50.wmv

What Time Is It? Summertime! (2)

Georgetown in Washington, D.C., is a great place to hang out on weekends also. The 17th and 18th century architecture and cobblestone streets lined with modern shops make shopping fun. If you are tired of shopping, walk over to the Georgetown Waterfront Park. Wander along the Potomac River, and watch the seagulls flying around. Like many American families, we're going to the beach.

Ocean City is famous for its beautiful beach, fishing and water sports. Thousands of vacationers go there to surf, boogie board and swim. Kids build sandcastles and jump in the waves while adults swim or sunbathe. Free movies, bonfires and concerts on the beach occur almost every night.

Ocean City also has one of America's famous boardwalks. Gigantic kites fly high, and street performers and shops provide entertainment. The arcades are filled with kids of all ages. And food? Seafood lovers will enjoy the spicy steamed crab and famous Maryland crab cakes. Have a sweet tooth like me? Try the caramel popcorn, funnel cakes and hot, hand-dipped donuts.

It's the beginning of the summer, so let's go out and have some fun!

Info Cloud

As our author today proves, it doesn't take long after moving to America for one starts using the phrase “hang out.” It’s really useful.

It is. So what exactly is hanging out? Well, first, it’s a state of ease and relaxation.

Playing video games, reading a book, baking a cake or watching TV, the activity doesn't matter so long as it’s not a strain on your mind or body.

OK. Who do you hang out with? Your boyfriend or girlfriend? Not necessarily. Hanging out is not the same as going out on a date.

No, it’s not. You hang out with people you like. Yes, you can, technically, hang out by yourself. But more often, hanging out means you are socializing with a friend or a group of friends.

Next, where can you hang out? Anywhere, really.

Parks, libraries, restaurants, cafes and shopping malls are all popular places to hang out. Hanging out at home is allowed; but there is an implication that hanging out happens in a public place.

So when’s the best time to hang out? Whenever you’re bored, or when you and your friends have some free time. The length of time you hang out is very flexible too, from, say, five minutes to five days.

And finally, why should you hang out?

Because you can.

hang out 消磨、打發時間、閒逛
a place where a person spends a lot of time
date(男女朋友)約會
an occasion when two people who have or might have a romantic relationship do an activity together

Language Lab
line with  [phrasal verb]布滿某種事物； [line排隊]
- The old man's face is lined with dots and wrinkles.
這位老人家臉上布滿了斑點和皺紋
line with 鋪上內裡
- The tailor lined the trousers with silk.
這位裁縫師在這條褲子裡面做了絲質的裡布

wander v.漫步、閒逛
to walk slowly across or around an area, usually without a clear direction or purpose
- We wandered around the beautiful city during the night.
晚上，我們在這個美麗的城市裡漫步。
- Mary wandered into the antique store and found many great buys.
Mary 信步走進這家骨董店，找到了許多好東西。

gigantic adj.巨大的、龐大的
/ʤaɪˈgæntɪk/
extremely large  
- We almost got lost in this gigantic amusement park.
我們在這個龐大的遊樂園裡差點迷了路
- The couple has to work hard to pay for their son's gigantic medical bill.
這對夫妻必須非常努力工作，來支付兒子龐大的醫藥費

arcade n.遊樂中心 = amusement arcade = video arcade
/ɑɚˈkeɪd/
 a place with many games that can be played by putting coins in them  
- Ricky and his friends go to the video arcade every Saturday.
Ricky和他的朋友們，每週六都會到電子遊樂園玩
arcade n.商場
an arched or covered passageway with many shops
- The shopping arcade is packed with people on weekends.
這個購物商場每個週末都是人滿為患

Review Skit
What? I can’t believe this!

Let me guess – you’re reading your friend’s blog.

Right. She’s talking about summertime.

Let me guess – she wants to spend the summer studying with the kids.

No. That’s the last thing she wants to do.

Then what does she want to do?

Everything else.

Everything?

Yeah. She wants to take road trips and go to camp.

That sounds fun.

Yeah. And uh, what else? Oh, visit regional and state parks.

That sounds fun, too.

They also want to hang out at Georgetown.

It has old architecture and cobblestone streets.

That sounds nice.

It is. And they have modern shops, too.

How fun!

But that’s not all. They want to wander along the Potomac River and watch the seagulls fly.

Nice.

And go to Ocean City for fishing trips and water sports and surfing and swimming.

Wow! Ocean City sounds fun.

There are free movies and concerts and a famous boardwalk there.

Anything else? Kites and street performers and shops and arcades and spicy steamed crabs and caramel popcorn and donuts.

Donuts… Wow, they’ll do so many fun things.

Yeah...huh, they sure will. What about you?

What… what will you do this summer?

I’ll study.

Me, too.

mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130620_55122.wmv

mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130620baa603cd297b31b435e12d9de4dea332450060b5f69a005dde25694cd86df16529b.wma

What Time Is It? Summertime! (1)

Grab your sunglasses, and let’s go!

You probably have heard this song from High School Musical 2 - "What Time is it? Summertime!" What do Americans usually do in summer? The last thing they like to do is to stay indoors to study or work.

School gets out in mid-June, so parents make plans to travel or send their kids to summer camps. Road trips or beach vacations are top choices for families. Camps vary from technology to adventure. The local swim and fitness centers make popular spots to cool off.

The Music Center, shopping malls and Town Center host free outdoor concerts every week. And sports lovers canoe or kayak along the river or bike and hike on the trails all summer. So what is my family doing this summer?

On weekends, we're going to different state and regional parks. Rock Creek Regional Park's Lake Needwood is our favorite place to hike. The nature center there helps us understand this area's history. My children love the Legacy of the People exhibit. Outside they visit the aviaries to see their "feathered friends" - a wing-injured American bald eagle and a half-blind owl.

Grammar Gym

Welcome to the Grammar Gym, friends. My name is Liz. In today’s article we find this sentence: The last thing they like to do is to stay indoors to study or work. That’s our Grammar Tip sentence.

Our focus is on the phrase at the beginning of the sentence: the last thing. We use this expression when we want to talk about an activity that someone doesn't enjoy doing. In the case of today’s sentence, the writer is saying that Americans don’t really want to be indoors during the summer months. Because it is something they don’t want to do, we can say it is the last thing they like to do.

OK. Let’s look at some example sentences. Kerry hates doing house chores, so we can say: If Kerry has free time, the last thing she would do is clean her house.

Or, Steven doesn't like going to the mall on weekends, so we can say:
Going shopping this weekend is the last thing Steven would do.

If you want to see some more example sentences, then check out today’s Grammar Tip section in your Studio Classroom magazine. And that’s it for today. This is Liz from the Grammar Gym. See you next time.

Info Cloud

Former U.S. President Woodrow Wilson once said: The hyphen was the most un-American thing in the world.

And Britain’s Winston Churchill said hyphens were a blemish to be avoided wherever possible.

Yes, many people believe the hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark that has outlived its usefulness.

As evidenced by words that are born with hyphens but then slowly and discreetly abandon them. Does anyone remember when the word tomorrow had a hyphen after the t-o?

If not, then surely you remember when the word e-mail was always written with a hyphen after the e.
Well, not so much anymore.

But don’t worry, people. The hyphen is not going anywhere.

Good thing, too. Hyphens still have a handful of important functions. For example, they facilitate understanding by neatly dividing words.

Right. They prevent what some people call letter collision. Imagine encountering words like coat-tail, shell-like, re-enter and de-ice without their hyphen. What a mess!

You are right. Well, another important function of hyphens is they help prevent ambiguity. For example, a half-blind owl isn't the same as a half blind owl, is it? And an old-furniture dealer is quite different from an old furniture dealer.

hyphen n.
1.連字符號，現在越來越少用了，早期如：
to-morrow: tomorrow
e-mail: email
2.有些字hyphen是不可以拿掉的，如 re-enter (少了hyphen就會有2個e)
3.有些字的hyphen可以避免模擬兩可的情況，如：
an old-furniture dealer買賣舊傢俱的商人
an old furniture dealer年紀很大的傢俱商

Language Lab
musical n.音樂劇、歌舞劇
a play or film that includes singing and dancing
- Britney watched the famous musical "Phantom of the Opera" when she was visiting New York.
Britney到紐約玩的時候，看了有名的歌劇：歌劇魅影
musical adj.音樂的、與音樂有關的
relating to music or consisting of music
- The singer's musical talent was discovered when she was very young.
這位歌手的音樂才華，在很年輕的時候就被發覺了

road trip  n. 駕車的公路旅行
a long trip that you take in a car, usually with friends
- Sean and his buddy took a road trip from L.A. to Miami last summer.
Sean和他的好朋友，去年夏天，從洛杉磯開車，一路玩到邁阿密
- Mel Gibson starred in the famous road trip movie Mad Max.
梅爾吉勃遜曾經主演過一部有名的公路旅行的電影：衝鋒飛車隊

legacy n.留給後人的東西；後遺症
/ˈlɛgəsi/
something (such as property or money) that is received from someone who has died;
something that happened in the past or that comes from someone in the past  
- These theses are this professor's legacy to the school.
這些論文是這位教授留給學校的重要資產
- We're changing the legacy of apartheid that was created by the old government.
我們正在改變舊政府造成種族隔離政策的後遺症

injure v.損壞、使受傷
to harm or damage (someone or something)
- The driver was seriously injured in the car crash.
這位駕駛在車禍中深受重傷
- Overwork can injure one's health easily.
過勞很容易讓一個人的健康受損
injury n.受傷、傷害
harm or damage : an act or event that causes someone or something to no longer be fully healthy or in good condition [noncount]
- The quarterback has to rest for three months because of his knee injury.
由於膝蓋的傷，這位四分衛得休息三個月。


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130619_bf778.wmv

mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130619baabf0f1590edf1f9e31e0fb17cd597d2bd4a94563519b7c7b669ab299244259ec2.wma

New Kid on the Block (2)

The second week of the semester, the school had a "back to school" night. Parents meet the teachers and learn about their child's schedule, requirements and grading. The biggest difference between elementary and middle school is that the students change classrooms for each subject. Do you think that's complicated? Wrong! From Monday to Friday, the schedule also changes. Math can be the first class on Monday and then the second one on Tuesday. I'm still confused but the kids have no problem after the first week.

Students attend seven classes each day. Every student has different classes from the others depending on their electives. Some study Spanish, some learn French. Classes end at 2:40, and the school bus takes the students home. So far, Irene has missed the school bus twice and gone to the wrong class once. But I think she likes her new school. This new kid on the block is finding her way despite the language barrier. We can only stand beside her, support her and look forward to a great school year!

Info Cloud
Hey, Steve. Don’t you think it’s incredible that the education system in America still doesn't require middle school and high school students to study a foreign language.

Well, it is a shame, Ken, because when you study a second language, you benefit yourself in so many ways. Some ways you might be aware of, and some maybe not. Here are a few.

First, studying a foreign language increases your global understanding. It shows you that there are different ways of thinking. You get a different perspective of life.

So it forces you to look out beyond yourself. But a foreign language also compels you to look inward, too.

Right. Studies show that knowing a foreign language increases your understanding of your own culture – and that includes your native language.

Thirdly, knowing a foreign language increases your chances of getting into a better school, going abroad to study and then later, getting a better job.

Next, remember that foreign languages help you to appreciate foreign books, movies and music.

And finally, perhaps the best reason to study a foreign language – it helps you to make new, lifelong friends like everyone here at Studio Classroom, your friend for life.

compel v. 強迫, 使不得不
[kəmˋpɛl]
to force (someone) to do something
- The law will compel employers to provide health insurance.

inward adj.
/ˈɪnwɚd/
 of or relating to a person's mind or spirit

Grammar Gym
to find one’s way: to figure out how to move from one place to another place

Hi there, friends.
Thanks for joining me here at the Grammar Gym.
My name is Liz.

In today’s article we read:
This new kid on the block is finding her way despite the language barrier.
That’s our Grammar Tip sentence.
And today we’re looking at the phrase: to find one’s way.
Normally “to find one’s way” means to figure out how to move from one place to another place.
But in today’s sentence, the phrase means figuring things out.
In other words, this new kid on the block is figuring things out despite the language barrier.

OK. Let’s have a look at some example sentences.
Jason would not have found his way in the corporate world if he hadn't followed his father’s advice.
Or: With good common sense and a positive working attitude, Janet is finding her way in her new job.

Want more example sentences?
Then check out today’s Grammar Tip section in your magazine.
And that’s it for today.
This is Liz from the Grammar Gym.
See you next time.

Language Lab
complicated adj. 複雜的
hard to understand, explain, or deal with
complicate v. 使複雜
to make (something) more difficult or less simple
- The application procedure is too complicated for me.
complicated 混亂的, 麻煩的
consisting of many closely connected parts [= complicated; ≠ simple]
- The situation in the Middle East is complicated.
中東的情勢很混亂的

confused adj. 感到困惑的, 不清楚的
unable to understand or think clearly
confuse 使迷惑
to make (someone) uncertain or unable to understand something
- The new computer system made me so confused.
confused about 對哪些事感到疑惑
- I am confused about how to get to the train station.

elective n. 選修課程 [elect v. 選出 to select (someone) for a position, job, etc., by voting ]
a class that is not required in a particular course of study
- I chose marketing as one of my electives.
elective adj. 選出來的
an elective position or organization is one for which there is an election:
- Wilma holds an appointed position while Donna holds an elective office.
Wilma的職位是被指派的, Donna的職位是被選上的

despite preposition 儘管,雖然
used to say that something happens or is true even though something else might have prevented it
- Susan finished her doctoral degree despite her illness.
儘管生病, Susan 還是完成她的博士學位
- Despite the objections of their parents, Ricky and Chloe still got married.
雖然有父母的反對, Ricky 和 Chloe 還是結婚了

mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130521_c4b25.wmv

mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130521baacab2acc0fe9879754873771aa7675010.wma

New Kid on the Block (1)

Life in an American junior high school

As the new kid on the block, my daughter Irene needs to deal with and overcome several difficulties. Fortunately, there are detailed instructions for parents and students who move to our area. From enrollment to the academic program, we followed them step by step.

My daughter graduated from grade school in Taipei, so she is entering the seventh grade. Each semester, the school holds an orientation for transfer students like her and new sixth graders.

We thought that would be the perfect time for us to learn more about the school. However, parents aren't allowed! The school expects middle-schoolers to be independent and have self-discipline. So my brave daughter went with two new friends from church.

The activities included getting to know your campus, finding your classrooms and learning how to read the bulletin board. In the classroom, the students played Bingo in small groups to learn more about each other.

Info Cloud
break the ice / icebreaker 

Normally when a group of strangers is together in one room, it takes a while before they feel comfortable talking and sharing personal information with one another.

Well, it’s natural. People want to protect themselves from getting hurt or embarrassed, so they behave in a cold and somewhat reserved manner.

But nobody likes being in an atmosphere like that. It’s icy and uncomfortable.

Hey, sounds like the perfect time for an ice breaker! Ice breakers, also known as warm up activities, are games or activities that are designed to help groups of people break the ice – that is to encourage them to get to know one another better.

Ice breakers are great for people in groups who intend to work together as a team like office workers and athletes.

They’re also useful for building community for freshman students moving into a university dormitory, for example.

And ice breakers come in all shapes and sizes. The most basic is probably just writing your name on a sticker and wearing it on your shirt. It’s amazing how people will talk to you once they know your name.

Right. Friends, check the Internet for fun and creative ways you can help people break the ice.

Review Skits
Now that’s funny.

What’s funny?

I’m reading about my friends that move to the States.

Oh, yeah. I remember. So how are they doing?

Well, their daughter is in junior high school. It’s not easy. She needs to overcome some difficulties.

How is she dealing with it?

Fortunately, the family has detailed instructions. They’re following them step by step.

Good. But why were you laughing?

Each semester, the school holds an orientation for new students.

For students to learn about the school. Why is that funny?

It’s for students! But the parents wanted to go, too.

What?

They were surprised when they weren't allowed.

Oh, that is funny.

So the daughter went with her friends.

That’s good. Did she learn about the campus and the classrooms?

Yes. And she learned how to read the bulletin board, and even played Bingo!

Orientation sounds like fun.

Yeah. I want to go.

Too bad it’s just for students.

Language Lab
enrollment n. 註冊 [en字首- 使如何如何, roll名單, 名冊]
the process of arranging to join a school, university, course etc
- Enrollment for this semester is already closed.
本學期已經沒有辦法再註冊了
enroll v.使入學, 註冊
to officially arrange to join a school, university, or course, or to arrange for someone else to do this
- Mandy tried to enroll her daughter in a private school.
Mandy 試著要讓女兒進入私立學校就讀

academic adj. 學業的
relating to education, especially at college or university level
- Alice's academic performance at school is outstanding.
Alice 在學校的學業表現的非常突出
academic adj.成續優異的
good at studying
- Hank is bright, but not very academic.
Hank很聰明, 但是成績不是很好
academy n.學院
/əˈkædəmi/
a college where students are taught a particular subject or skill
- a police academy 警察學院

self-discipline n. 自律, 自我約束 [self自己/ discipline紀律]
/ˌsɛlfˈdɪsəplən/
the ability to make yourself do things that should be done  
- To become a great athlete requires determination and self-discipline.
要成為一位偉大的運動員, 需要決心和自律
self-disciplined adj. 自律的
- He lives a self-disciplined lifestyle.
他過著自律的生活方式

bulletin board n.公佈欄 [bulletin 公報; 公告/ board 板子 ]
a board on the wall that you put information or pictures on
- Our poster was taken off the bulletin board.
我們的海報從布告欄上被拿下來了
- The time and the location of the meeting will be posted on the bulletin board.
會議的時間和地點會張貼在公佈欄

new kid on the block (idiom) new to the area
A new kid on the block is a person who has recently joined a company, organisation, team, etc, and does not know how things work yet.


mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130520_e0e99.wmv

mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130520baa62f8e4fac9ccf1fe90ee6a87a285b926.wma

Home Away From Home (2)

Living here definitely will give us the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of all four seasons. There are colorful flowers in spring and sunshine in summer. In autumn are red, orange and yellow leaves, and snow falls in winter. In mid-April, we went to the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This festival commemorates the gift of 3,020 cherry trees from Tokyo to Washington, D.C., in 1912. More than one million people attend every year.

We went on a Friday and joined the flocks of people already there. They walked around the Tidal Basin. They sat on the grass and took photos of the beautiful pink and white blossoms. We were able to capture the Washington Monument in the background with the cherry trees in bloom. Of course, we bought some magnets, mugs and T-shirts as keepsakes. We are very fortunate to have plenty of time to appreciate this place.

Info Cloud
house/home
house n.房子(只是建築, 比較冷冰冰的感覺)
home n.家(有溫馨的感覺)
- Make yourself at home. 把這裡當做你家
- All students go home for Christmas. 學生回家過聖誕節
home away from home 遠離家園的家，指賓至如歸。

Language Lab
definitely adv. 肯定地, 當然
without any doubt [= certainly]
- This restaurant is definitely the best in town.
這間餐廳絕對是這裡最棒的餐廳
- "Are you staying to watch the game?" "Definitely!"
你會留下來觀賽嗎? 那當然!
definite adj. 明確的, 肯定地
a definite conclusion 肯定的結論

commemorate v. 慶祝, 紀念 [memor字根有記憶的意思]
to do something to show that you remember and respect someone important or an important event in the past
The festival was held to commemorate the birth of this artist.
這個慶典是為了慶祝這個藝術家的誔生
commemoration n.紀念, 紀念儀式
something that makes you remember and respect someone important or an important event in the past
- Thousands participated in the commemoration of the battle.
數千人參加了這場戰爭的紀念儀式

flock n. 一群一群 (可指人或動物); 人群; 羊群 (飛禽、牲畜等的)
a large number of people
- a flock of tourists
- Flocks of fans gathered at the entrance of the stadium.
成群的粉絲聚集在運動場的入口
- You can find flocks of sheep in this beautiful green pasture.
你可以在這片美麗青翠的草原上，看到一群群的羊

keepsake n.紀念品
a small object that you keep to remind you of someone;
something that you keep to help you remember a person, place, or event : a memento or souvenir  
- I bought a miniature Eiffel Tower as a keepsake.
- Molly gave me a picture of her as a keepsake before she left.
Molly離開之前，給了我一張她的照片當做紀念品

capture v.
to record (something) in a picture, film, etc.

snow falls vs. snowfall

snowfall
an amount of snow that falls in a single storm or in a particular period of time [count]
an occasion when snow falls from the sky, or the amount that falls in a particular period of time

mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130409_2dc02.wmv

Home Away From Home (1)

New experiences are waiting for everyone

We are finally settled down in a suburb near Washington, D.C. This is where we will be staying for three years. When my husband was asked to transfer to his company's office here, we knew our lives would change.

My two teenage daughters had to leave their friends and comfort zone in Taipei. They will need to adjust to a new educational system. Will they be able to "survive" at a new school? Can they function well in a foreign language? Will they feel frustrated and homesick a lot? Only time will tell.

But we decided to accept the offer, so we are bravely embracing this challenge. We have decided we can overcome any difficulties. We also decided to make the most of it. We plan to travel, explore and learn about "real" American culture and life.

Large numbers of tourists come here to see the White House, the Pentagon, Capitol Hill and the Smithsonian. We plan to go, too!

Grammar Gym
to settle down: 
to being living in a place in a stable and orderly way
- We are finally settled down in a suburb near Washington, D.C.
- After working in Asia for several years, the American businessman decided to settle down in Hong Kong.
- Mr. and Mrs. Lin wish their children could settle down near them , but all three sons live overseas.

Info Cloud
adolescence n.
the time, usually between the ages of 12 and 18, when a young person is developing into an adult
adolescent 青少年
a young person, usually between the ages of 12 and 18, who is developing into an adult
other words meaning young:
teenager 青少年
used to describe someone who is between 13 and 19
本文作者提到他有二個青春期的女兒 two teenage daughters
9~12歲是少年, 英文用 preteen,
relating to or made for children who are 9 tp 12 years old
也可以用英文 tween, 這個字是從 teen, between 組合成的一個新字
minor
a young person who is not yet legally an adult
the time when someone is young: childhood the time when you are a child
youth
the time when you are no longer a child but you are still young

Language Lab
comfort zone n. 可以感到舒服或放鬆的範圍 [comfort 舒適/ zone區域]
your comfort zone is the range of activities or situations that you feel happy and confident in
- Studying abroad means stepping out of one's comfort zone.
到國外讀書代表要離開自己舒適的範圍
- Staying in your comfort zone only limits your growth.
待在自己舒適的地方只會限制自己的成長

suburb n.
an area where people live which is away from the centre of a town or city

frustrate v. 挫折, 阻撓
to cause (someone) to feel angry, discouraged, or upset because of not being able to do something
- All these difficult math questions frustrate me.
這一大堆困難的數學題目讓我覺得很挫折
frustrated adj. 感到挫折的, 洩氣的
- The coach feels frustrated because he can't see any effort from the team.
教練覺得很挫敗, 因為他看不到任何球員的努力

embrace v.
1 擁抱
to put your arms around someone and hold them in a friendly or loving way [= hug
- As soon as Bob arrived at the gate, his son came forward to embrace him.
2  欣然接受(本文) to eagerly accept a new idea, opinion, religion etc
- Greg embraced a golden opportunity to work at the top law firm in the state.
Greg 欣然接受在美國頂尖法律公司提供的工作的大好機會

make the most of 充份利用某個事物[most 最大限度]
use to the best advantage
- We made the most of the facilities at the hotel while we were staying there.
我們住在這家旅館的時候, 充份了利用他們所有的設施
- During the banquet, Edward made the most of an opportunity to make connections.
宴會的時候, Edward 利用機會建立他的人脈

mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130408_47163.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130408baa50abd24d4bbf51a0f5f4f9fed97f511f.wma