Feeling challenged by his research, Dr. Wu prayed for wisdom and experienced another miracle. Within six months, he overcame a technical barrier and discovered several new areas liquid crystals could be used in. This liquid crystal technology can be found in digital video projectors today.
Another invention to his credit is the high-resolution and high-contrast displays used in Game Boy and Google Glass. This discovery paved the way to the foundation for the display technology that allows people to see their iPhones in sunlight.
In 2001 Wu entered the academic world at CREOL.University of Central Florida. There he continues to conduct research while influencing his students. His 82-plus patents, more than 480 journal articles and 24 graduated Ph.D. students are the fruit of his hard work. While his awards are many, his attitude is humble. He and his wife host a Bible study on Friday nights and constantly pray for their family members and students. He enjoys teaching Sunday school and studying the Bible. His brilliance and humility are a winning combination.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Award vs. Reward教學主題: 別把 Award 與 Reward 搞混了
Today let’s talk about two similar sounding words, award and reward. Not only do they sound alike, their meanings are similar. But the two words are very different.
Okay first, award. When you hear the word award, you should think about special prize like a trophy, medal or plaque. An Oscar or a Nobel Prize are famous awards and it’s an honor to receive an award because it’s usually not easy to earn one.
Right, the recipient of an award is often determined by a committee of judges. Okay, now let’s look at rewards. Rewards are also recognitions, but there are kind of acknowledgement of an individuals contributions. You can get a reward for making an effort, for example, if you found someone’s cellphone on the street, and turned it into the police you maybe rewarded with some money.
Umm, another difference between reward and award is that rewards are mostly private or personal affairs. Awards get publicized. That’s right. A reward can mean something positive like a feeling of satisfaction you get out of something. A mother’s reward after so many years of labor raising her child is seeing a child grow up and become successful.
Or you may feel rewarded when someone simply says “thanks to you”. There’s a feel good factor when one is rewarded, so friends, getting an award may not be easy, but you can easily get rewarded if you make a bit of effort to help others in your everyday life.
Language Lab
barrier n.
something (such as a fence or natural obstacle) that prevents or blocks movement from one place to another
- Concrete barriers surround the racetrack to protect spectators.
digital adj.
showing the time with numbers instead of with hour and minute hands;
of or relating to information that is stored in the form of the numbers 0 and 1;
academic n.
usually used before a noun : of or relating to schools and education
patent n.
an official document that gives a person or company the right to be the only one that makes or sells a product for a certain period of time
- The company holds the/a patent on the product.
pave the way for (something or someone)
to make it easier for something to happen or for someone to do something
- The discovery paves the way for the development of effective new treatments.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20151111baad173ef1a8f731ededfbc0d9f81fbb6e1921dddad2dff31192987bbfba396a22d.wma
Showing posts with label Profile. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Profile. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Dr. Shin-Tson Wu (1)
A mixture of brilliance and humility
The youngest of eight children, Shin-Tson Wu grew up on a farm in Nantou County. He remembers his father encouraging all of his children to pursue their dreams. Early on Wu felt pulled toward science, so after high school, he majored in physics at National Taiwan University. As a junior, Wu was granted special permission to take a graduate class, atomic spectra, offered by a visiting professor. That class inspired him to dig deeper into lasers in graduate school.
In the late 70s, Wu became a doctoral student at USC Los Angeles. He received his Ph.D. in laser physics and married his college sweetheart, Choyan Hsieh, in the same year, 1981. Dr. Wu then applied for a research job at Hughes Research Labs. A believer in miracles, Wu experienced two at the sametime. Hughes had an opening for someone to work with infrared liquid crystal light valves. Wu had a background in infrared lasers but none in liquid crystals. He also had to have permanent residency to work there. He received both the same day!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Kind of a Doctor? 教學主題: Doctor一定是醫生嗎？
When you hear that somebody is a doctor, don’t immediately assume that the person is a medical doctor.
That’s right. A doctor can also be somebody who has earned a PhD or doctorate. That’s the highest degree that can be earned in any university.
PhD is actually the abbreviation for doctor of philosophy. Now this is misleading, because PhD holders are not necessarily philosophers unless they earned their degree in philosophy.
So why philosophy? Well the meaning of the word philosophy has changed over the centuries; during the renaissance this word had the broader meanings, since philosophy at that time encompassed a whole spectrum of science.
And the word doctor in the original Latin definition meant teacher. Historically it referred to a teacher or by extension a scholar. It did not specifically refer to a physician. This title was later adapted by the medical community due to the respect and prestige that it had.
And the adapted usage has become more popular than the original definition.
That’s right. Now a word about usage, we should never use both doctor and PhD together as doctor is a title and PhD is a degree. So let’s say Ken has earned a PhD, I might call him Doctor Lee, and on his business card he might put PhD after his name, but without the DR in front of it.
Language Lab
humility n.
the quality or state of not thinking you are better than other people
- The movie star's humility and kindness made him more and more popular.
- Jason's defeat in his first NBA game taught him the lesson of humility.
grant v.
to agree to do, give, or allow (something asked for or hoped for)
- The government granted the refugees temporary entry visas.
- Charlie was granted permission to use his dad's car on weekends.
grant n.
an amount of money that is given to someone by a government, a company, etc., to be used for a particular purpose (such as scientific research)
- Fred's application for a special grant was accepted.
infrared adj.
/ˌɪnfrəˈrɛd/
producing or using rays of light that cannot be seen and that are longer than rays that produce red light
- The soldiers used infrared detectors to find landmines.
- The infrared camera can take clear pictures in the dark.
residency n.
the state or fact of living in a place
- It took Patrick three years to get his British residency.
resident n.
someone who lives in a particular place
- Many residents in this apartment building are from Mexico.
residence n.
the place where someone lives
- the President's residence
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20151110baa896468da4681997c2b39fc3c64d66adb039fc70d0a61a56a3c812f2e50e2e9ef.wma
The youngest of eight children, Shin-Tson Wu grew up on a farm in Nantou County. He remembers his father encouraging all of his children to pursue their dreams. Early on Wu felt pulled toward science, so after high school, he majored in physics at National Taiwan University. As a junior, Wu was granted special permission to take a graduate class, atomic spectra, offered by a visiting professor. That class inspired him to dig deeper into lasers in graduate school.
In the late 70s, Wu became a doctoral student at USC Los Angeles. He received his Ph.D. in laser physics and married his college sweetheart, Choyan Hsieh, in the same year, 1981. Dr. Wu then applied for a research job at Hughes Research Labs. A believer in miracles, Wu experienced two at the sametime. Hughes had an opening for someone to work with infrared liquid crystal light valves. Wu had a background in infrared lasers but none in liquid crystals. He also had to have permanent residency to work there. He received both the same day!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Kind of a Doctor? 教學主題: Doctor一定是醫生嗎？
When you hear that somebody is a doctor, don’t immediately assume that the person is a medical doctor.
That’s right. A doctor can also be somebody who has earned a PhD or doctorate. That’s the highest degree that can be earned in any university.
PhD is actually the abbreviation for doctor of philosophy. Now this is misleading, because PhD holders are not necessarily philosophers unless they earned their degree in philosophy.
So why philosophy? Well the meaning of the word philosophy has changed over the centuries; during the renaissance this word had the broader meanings, since philosophy at that time encompassed a whole spectrum of science.
And the word doctor in the original Latin definition meant teacher. Historically it referred to a teacher or by extension a scholar. It did not specifically refer to a physician. This title was later adapted by the medical community due to the respect and prestige that it had.
And the adapted usage has become more popular than the original definition.
That’s right. Now a word about usage, we should never use both doctor and PhD together as doctor is a title and PhD is a degree. So let’s say Ken has earned a PhD, I might call him Doctor Lee, and on his business card he might put PhD after his name, but without the DR in front of it.
Language Lab
humility n.
the quality or state of not thinking you are better than other people
- The movie star's humility and kindness made him more and more popular.
- Jason's defeat in his first NBA game taught him the lesson of humility.
grant v.
to agree to do, give, or allow (something asked for or hoped for)
- The government granted the refugees temporary entry visas.
- Charlie was granted permission to use his dad's car on weekends.
grant n.
an amount of money that is given to someone by a government, a company, etc., to be used for a particular purpose (such as scientific research)
- Fred's application for a special grant was accepted.
infrared adj.
/ˌɪnfrəˈrɛd/
producing or using rays of light that cannot be seen and that are longer than rays that produce red light
- The soldiers used infrared detectors to find landmines.
- The infrared camera can take clear pictures in the dark.
residency n.
the state or fact of living in a place
- It took Patrick three years to get his British residency.
resident n.
someone who lives in a particular place
- Many residents in this apartment building are from Mexico.
residence n.
the place where someone lives
- the President's residence
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20151110baa896468da4681997c2b39fc3c64d66adb039fc70d0a61a56a3c812f2e50e2e9ef.wma
Friday, March 13, 2015
Emma Watson (3)
- Stage three: the present
- What roles did she take after Harry Potter?
- U.N. Goodwill Ambassador
Stage Three: The Present
One might think that Watson would wish to run from Hermione in her post-Potter life, but that's not Watson's perspective. "That seems like a negative place to jump off from -- trying to get away from something rather than trying to get towards something," she comments. She wanted to do something unconventional, not something that would be too comfortable, such as period pieces. "The one thing I knew I didn't want to do was get myself into a corset because I was worried I'd never get out again."
So what roles did Watson step into? In films, she began to play Americans (as in Wallflower) and also starred in the decidedly different Noah with Russel Crowe.
But it's a role outside of the film industry that has gotten everyone's attention since then -- that of a U.N. Women Goodwill Ambassador.
Many people questioned the right of a young actor to fill this position. In her famous speech on feminism, she gave voice to an answer:"I've told myself firmly, 'If not me, who? If not now, when?'"
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Actor vs. Actress教學主題: 女演員該如何稱呼？
21 世紀二性平等所以有些女生也會被叫actor
但actress 可以特地的強調他們與男演員的不同
Closer Look
But it's a role outside of the film industry that has gotten everyone's attention since then -- that of a U.N. Women Goodwill Ambassador.
[Situation] -- that of a/an [something].
that of
- Although the police haven't solved the case, they did find a clue -- that of a plane ticket in the victim's coat.
- The guests were impressed with the presentation of the final dish -- that of a beautifully decorated cake.
Language Lab
perspective n. [spect字根- 看]
a way of thinking about something, especially one which is influenced by the type of person you are or by your experiences [↪ viewpoint] perspective on
- The talk show reflected people's perspectives on this political issue.
a sensible way of judging and comparing situations so that you do not imagine that something is more serious than it really is:
- It's important to keep things in perspective when you are making crucial decisions.
unconventional adj.
very different from the way people usually behave, think, dress etc:
- His unconventional style of leadership has been well-received by his staff.
conventional adj.
- The patient has already given up on conventional treatments.
decidedly adv.
in a way that shows that you are certain : in a way that shows that you have no doubt
- The questions posed by the press decidedly offended the chief of police.
- The boss is decidedly dissatisfied with our sales figures this month.
feminism n.
the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities
- The politician's opposition to feminism cost him many women's votes.
feminist n.
- Elizabeth is a radical feminist.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150313baa1318096d20eccb76a9992a9044b3fadec2651222a425133cfedffdc562e7ff27.wma
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Emma Watson (2)
- Stage two: the degree
- Can an actor ever have a normal life?
- What other movies is Emma Watson in?
Watson enrolled at Brown University in Rhode Island before production ended on the Harry Potter films. She began work on a degree in English at Brown in the fall of 2009, and she "was insistent on being normal and doing normal things."
Sometimes it worked, and sometimes it didn't. She lived in a dorm with a roommate and a community bathroom. But this didn't keep one student from crying out in class, "Ten points for Gryffindor!" after an intelligent response from Watson. Such attention can hardly be avoided by the Guinness World Record holder for highest-grossing actress of the decade, her movies earning US$5.4 billion.
In early 2011, Watson took a break from Brown when she returned to England. While there, she continued her studies at Oxford with intentions to return to Brown. The plan worked out well with several other films being released prior to her graduation from Brown in May 2014.
These included Marilyn Monroe biopic My Week With Marilyn (2011) and coming-of-age drama The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012).
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Wallflowers and Social Butterflies 壁花與社交花蝴蝶
wallflower 壁花, 通常指害羞的女生, 在party時站在牆壁
social butterfly 社交花蝴蝶
Closer Look
Such attention can hardly be avoided by the Guinness World Record holder for highest-grossing actress of the decade, her movies earning US$5.4 billion.
[Situation], [his/her/their] [something] [verb-ing].
- The bird glided beautifully through the air, its wings stretching over two meters wide.
- The neighbors are always having wild parties, their lud music blasting through the night.
enroll v.
to officially arrange to join a school, university, or course, or to arrange for someone else to do this
- Madison enrolled at USC last spring.
enroll on/for/in
- I enrolled in the modern French literature class this semester.
insistent adj. [insist v.]
demanding firmly and repeatedly that something should happen
- The government can no longer ignore people's insistent demands for reform.
insistent on
- The singer is insistent on travelling first class when he's on tour.
intention n.
a plan or desire to do something [↪ intend]
- The chairman said that he had no intention of running for re-election.
- Rachel returned home with the intention of helping her father with is business.
intend v.
- We intend to buy a new house this year.
coming-of-age adj.
- Martha's parents held a coming-of-age party for her at a fancy restaurant.
coming of age n.
the time when a person becomes an adult
the point in a young person's life, usually the age of 18 or 21, at which their society considers them to be an adult
- the ceremony of coming of age 成年禮
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150312baa813eb689daefd34d8168afbdcfaa645cebde097816af7204239fcb5c2b12da17.wma
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Emma Watson (1)
A girl on the world stage
"I just felt like that part belonged to me. I know that sounds crazy, but from that first audition, I always knew." Filled with this confidence, Emma Waston stepped into one of movies' biggest franchises of all time, Harry Potter.
Stage One: The Blockbusters
Nine-year-old Watson actually fought through eight auditions, during which she became author J. K. Rowling's favorite for the part. She indeed became Hermione Granger, a transformation that spanned a decade and a lifetime. The time devoted to the eight-film series had its challenges as well.
Watson asserts that she will forever be proud of the Harry Potter films, but she also sees that they curbed her young life in some ways. She was often frustrated by her child star status in the press. She felt that she lived in a bubble, having little interaction with the larger film world. Yet, it was a broad bubble that also took her around the world. "It was really only once Harry Potter ended and I went to university that it hit me how unusual a position I was in."
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Decade, Score, Century and Millennium 表達年數的字
decade 10年
century 100年 (一個世紀)
millennuum 1000年
score 20年 (已經少用了)
除了
1. 1863 年林肯總統發表的蓋資堡演講,
開場說了: Four score and seven years ago (4x20=80+7年, 87年以前, 指的是美國開國那年的1776年)
2. Bible 說: Three score years and ten= 70年
Language Lab
audition n. [aud-聽]
a short performance to show the talents of someone (such as an actor or a musician) who is being considered for a role in a play, a position in an orchestra, etc. — often + for
- Many top actors attended the audition for the important role.
audition v.
- Angela flew to L.A. to audition for the leading role in the play.
franchise n.
the right to sell a company's goods or services in a particular area
- The family owns a big fast-food franchise in the States.
to offer the right to sell (your company's goods or services) in a particular area
- Matthew plans to franchise his business in other areas of Asia next year.
assert v.
to state (something) in a strong and definite way
- The defendant has been asserting his innocence since the beginning of the trial.
- Billy thinks that he should've asserted himself more during the negotiation of his contract.
curb v.
something that controls or limits something else — usually plural
- The new policy is designed to curb inflation.
- Roy curbed his temper when his boss scolded him this morning.
a short border along the edge of a street that is usually made of stone or concrete
- I asked the taxi driver to pull up to the curb so I could get out.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150311baa74fbb8b453992d1ff27299eb6626d69a690c10feefd0e7fdd473c25e7549468f.wma
"I just felt like that part belonged to me. I know that sounds crazy, but from that first audition, I always knew." Filled with this confidence, Emma Waston stepped into one of movies' biggest franchises of all time, Harry Potter.
Stage One: The Blockbusters
Nine-year-old Watson actually fought through eight auditions, during which she became author J. K. Rowling's favorite for the part. She indeed became Hermione Granger, a transformation that spanned a decade and a lifetime. The time devoted to the eight-film series had its challenges as well.
Watson asserts that she will forever be proud of the Harry Potter films, but she also sees that they curbed her young life in some ways. She was often frustrated by her child star status in the press. She felt that she lived in a bubble, having little interaction with the larger film world. Yet, it was a broad bubble that also took her around the world. "It was really only once Harry Potter ended and I went to university that it hit me how unusual a position I was in."
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Decade, Score, Century and Millennium 表達年數的字
decade 10年
century 100年 (一個世紀)
millennuum 1000年
score 20年 (已經少用了)
除了
1. 1863 年林肯總統發表的蓋資堡演講,
開場說了: Four score and seven years ago (4x20=80+7年, 87年以前, 指的是美國開國那年的1776年)
2. Bible 說: Three score years and ten= 70年
Language Lab
audition n. [aud-聽]
a short performance to show the talents of someone (such as an actor or a musician) who is being considered for a role in a play, a position in an orchestra, etc. — often + for
- Many top actors attended the audition for the important role.
audition v.
- Angela flew to L.A. to audition for the leading role in the play.
franchise n.
the right to sell a company's goods or services in a particular area
- The family owns a big fast-food franchise in the States.
to offer the right to sell (your company's goods or services) in a particular area
- Matthew plans to franchise his business in other areas of Asia next year.
assert v.
to state (something) in a strong and definite way
- The defendant has been asserting his innocence since the beginning of the trial.
- Billy thinks that he should've asserted himself more during the negotiation of his contract.
curb v.
something that controls or limits something else — usually plural
- The new policy is designed to curb inflation.
- Roy curbed his temper when his boss scolded him this morning.
a short border along the edge of a street that is usually made of stone or concrete
- I asked the taxi driver to pull up to the curb so I could get out.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150311baa74fbb8b453992d1ff27299eb6626d69a690c10feefd0e7fdd473c25e7549468f.wma
Saturday, February 7, 2015
José André Montaño (2)
Singer Vero Perez says the exceptional thing about Josè isn't his age or even his blindness. According to Perez, "It's his ability to be completely free ... as a true artist should be. He shows other musicians how jazz music really is [to be played.]. As Josè's fame spreads, he has more chances to tour and perform. He has traveled throughout Bolivia and into Brazil and Peru.
Encouraging others
When Josè is at home with his family, he is a normal little boy. He goes to school and does his homework. But when he begins playing the piano or drums, his musical genius becomes apparent.
Josè has proved that nothing will keep him from doing what he loves best. His positive attitude encourages others to look past their own obstacles and reach for their dreams.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150207baaf45a7c2499cba8e338002f981f5913818a027d8fc44dd9580ccbc41da9a9a5fb.wma
Encouraging others
When Josè is at home with his family, he is a normal little boy. He goes to school and does his homework. But when he begins playing the piano or drums, his musical genius becomes apparent.
Josè has proved that nothing will keep him from doing what he loves best. His positive attitude encourages others to look past their own obstacles and reach for their dreams.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150207baaf45a7c2499cba8e338002f981f5913818a027d8fc44dd9580ccbc41da9a9a5fb.wma
Friday, February 6, 2015
José André Montaño (1)
This young Bolivian musician makes new fans every time he plays
A crowd gathered recently to hear a popular jazz band. The music was good, and the musicians were very talented. But everyone had come to see one player in particular -- 9-year-old Jose Andre Montano.
Why were so many music-lovers interested in seeing this young man perform? It is because he is a jazz prodigy, and he is blind.
Josè's life began in Totora, Bolivia, where he was born blind. Yet despite his lack of sight, the boy began playing the drums at the age of 4. He demonstrated an amazing ability, and before long he was playing the piano, too. By the age of 5, he had formed his own jazz trio.
His parents, along with everyone else, are continually surprised by his marvelous talent. "I didn't know jazz before; he got me into it," said his father, Roberto. "I don't know how to explain how it came about. It's like the jazz was already inside him." Many professional musicians are equally impressed and welcome the chance to perform with Josè. They have noticed his deep understanding of this unique form of music.
Language Lab
in particular n.
especially:
- Irene likes sweets - chocolate in particular.
- What are you doing this weekend? Nothing in particular.
prodigy n.
a young person who has a great natural ability in a subject or skill
- The Austrian piano prodigy became a household name after winning his first international title.
- The child math prodigy graduated from Harvard 15.
demonstrate v. 示範, 說明, 證明
- The team successfully demonstrated their skills and ability to cooperate.
- Stanley demonstrated his great resilience under pressure.
demonstration n. 示範, 說明
- The painting is a great demonstration of this artist's boldness and creativity.
marvelous adj. 令人驚異的, 了不起的
- The actress's marvelous acting deeply moved the audience.
- We were amazed at the marvelous sight of the waterfall.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150206baae825e70903ee6ef6c7fbd0cc01269fa6d5d27fcfb981eefe8c5b3df3c903b149.wma
A crowd gathered recently to hear a popular jazz band. The music was good, and the musicians were very talented. But everyone had come to see one player in particular -- 9-year-old Jose Andre Montano.
Why were so many music-lovers interested in seeing this young man perform? It is because he is a jazz prodigy, and he is blind.
Josè's life began in Totora, Bolivia, where he was born blind. Yet despite his lack of sight, the boy began playing the drums at the age of 4. He demonstrated an amazing ability, and before long he was playing the piano, too. By the age of 5, he had formed his own jazz trio.
His parents, along with everyone else, are continually surprised by his marvelous talent. "I didn't know jazz before; he got me into it," said his father, Roberto. "I don't know how to explain how it came about. It's like the jazz was already inside him." Many professional musicians are equally impressed and welcome the chance to perform with Josè. They have noticed his deep understanding of this unique form of music.
Language Lab
in particular n.
especially:
- Irene likes sweets - chocolate in particular.
- What are you doing this weekend? Nothing in particular.
prodigy n.
a young person who has a great natural ability in a subject or skill
- The Austrian piano prodigy became a household name after winning his first international title.
- The child math prodigy graduated from Harvard 15.
demonstrate v. 示範, 說明, 證明
- The team successfully demonstrated their skills and ability to cooperate.
- Stanley demonstrated his great resilience under pressure.
demonstration n. 示範, 說明
- The painting is a great demonstration of this artist's boldness and creativity.
marvelous adj. 令人驚異的, 了不起的
- The actress's marvelous acting deeply moved the audience.
- We were amazed at the marvelous sight of the waterfall.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150206baae825e70903ee6ef6c7fbd0cc01269fa6d5d27fcfb981eefe8c5b3df3c903b149.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
Saturday, November 22, 2014
The Wisdom of Matthew McConaughey (2)
"Find Your Frequency"
While dealing with fame, McConaughey took some roles that were important to him.
Contact's theme was about the relationship of God and science, and Amistad discussed slavery. The first film was successful, but the second project started a string of financial disappointments.
"We all have a frequency, where things are clicking, "McConaughey says. "I can adapt better. I'm catching more green lights." Looking back, he might say he found his frequency in romantic comedy
He describes a light quality in romantic comedies that keeps things very "Saturday." And he adds, "I'm good on Saturdays." Starting with 2001's The Wedding Planner, he was involved with several hits.
However, money-makers like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days were looked down upon. So McConaughey decided to take a break. "I'm getting into my 40s, a great time for a man. I've started a family. I want to take time to laugh and love and emjoy these adventures." His frequency had changed.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Adept, Adapt and Adopt 三個易混淆的字
adopt v. 採納, 收養
adapt v. 適應
adept adj. 熟練的
Grammar Gym
... but the second project started a string of financial disappointments.
- Once student's practical joke in the dormitory started a string of pranks all over the school campus.
Language Lab
frequency n.
the number of times that something happens within a particular period of time or within a particular group of people
frequency of
- The frequency of Tina's tardiness increased after she had a baby.
- The frequency of the whales' sound is quite different from that of a human voice.
frequent adj.
happening or doing something often [≠ infrequent]
- Bob is a frequent customer of this restaurant.
theme n.
the main subject or idea in a piece of writing, speech, film etc:
- The theme of tonight's party is a masquerade. Everyone has to wear a mask.
masquerade n.
a formal dance or party where people wear masks and unusual clothes
- The theme of the conference is language development in early childhood.
money-maker n.
- In Hollywood, the director has the reputation for being a money-maker.
- This once ignored business idea surprisingly became a major money-maker for the company.
look down upon
look down upon someone or something
- Irene looks down upon anyone who's not as smart as she is.
- In the old days, people with ordinary professions were looked down upon by the nobles.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141120baa565d4c09b5246096cbe29c24f5a55228bdb269ff705eea8f771c2b1848436910.wma
While dealing with fame, McConaughey took some roles that were important to him.
Contact's theme was about the relationship of God and science, and Amistad discussed slavery. The first film was successful, but the second project started a string of financial disappointments.
"We all have a frequency, where things are clicking, "McConaughey says. "I can adapt better. I'm catching more green lights." Looking back, he might say he found his frequency in romantic comedy
He describes a light quality in romantic comedies that keeps things very "Saturday." And he adds, "I'm good on Saturdays." Starting with 2001's The Wedding Planner, he was involved with several hits.
However, money-makers like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days were looked down upon. So McConaughey decided to take a break. "I'm getting into my 40s, a great time for a man. I've started a family. I want to take time to laugh and love and emjoy these adventures." His frequency had changed.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Adept, Adapt and Adopt 三個易混淆的字
adopt v. 採納, 收養
adapt v. 適應
adept adj. 熟練的
Grammar Gym
... but the second project started a string of financial disappointments.
[Subject] started a string of [something].
- The company's new employee polices started a string of complaints among the workers.- Once student's practical joke in the dormitory started a string of pranks all over the school campus.
Language Lab
frequency n.
the number of times that something happens within a particular period of time or within a particular group of people
frequency of
- The frequency of Tina's tardiness increased after she had a baby.
- The frequency of the whales' sound is quite different from that of a human voice.
frequent adj.
happening or doing something often [≠ infrequent]
- Bob is a frequent customer of this restaurant.
theme n.
the main subject or idea in a piece of writing, speech, film etc:
- The theme of tonight's party is a masquerade. Everyone has to wear a mask.
masquerade n.
a formal dance or party where people wear masks and unusual clothes
- The theme of the conference is language development in early childhood.
money-maker n.
- In Hollywood, the director has the reputation for being a money-maker.
- This once ignored business idea surprisingly became a major money-maker for the company.
look down upon
look down upon someone or something
- Irene looks down upon anyone who's not as smart as she is.
- In the old days, people with ordinary professions were looked down upon by the nobles.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141120baa565d4c09b5246096cbe29c24f5a55228bdb269ff705eea8f771c2b1848436910.wma
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Ethan Bortnick - Piano Prodigy (3)
Over the years, Ethan's parents have done their best to encourage his talent. But at the same time, they've worried about protecting him. They want him to have a normal childhood. But, above all, they say they are amazed and very proud of their son. The Bortnicks have reason to be proud of Ethan, but not just for his musical abilities. Their son is also very generous and compassionate.
The young musician's little brother had three heart operations when Ethan was only 5 years old. He remembers seeing a lot of sick children, including some who couldn't afford surgery. This experience made him want to use his talent to help those kids and many others. Since that time, Ethan has helped raise over $30 million for charities around the world! Many call him "the world's youngest philanthropist."
The performer often encourages audiences with words from his movie's theme song, "Believe in yourself. Anything is possible." Ethan Bortnick is living proof!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Surgery vs. Operation (Surgery與 Operation的差別)
外科手術:
1. surgery [uncountable]
I had surgery.
英國用法: 診所
2. operation [countable]
I had an operation.
Grammar Gym
The Bortnicks have reason to be proud of Ethan, but not just for his musical abilities.
[Subject] has reason to be... of...
- Esau had reason to dislike Jacob.
- Mary has reason to be nervous of dogs that are near her.
Info Cloud
normal adj.
usual, typical, or expected:
- It's quite normal to feel nervous when you're making a speech in front of a large audience.
abnormal adj.
very different from usual in a way that seems strange, worrying, wrong, or dangerous [≠ normal]:
- The abnormal behavior of the teacher has caused a great deal of concern among students and their parents.
musical adj.
relating to music or consisting of music:
- These musical instruments are the school's possession.
- The musical talent of the actress was finally discovered when she sang in the movie.
good at or interested in playing or singing music:
- a musical family
afford v.
to have enough money to buy or pay for something
- I don't think we can afford such a big house right now.
affordable adj.
- This compact car is practical and affordable.
proof n.
facts, information, documents etc that prove something is true
- Janet is living proof that people can lose weight without starving themselves.
- To apply for the benefits, you need to provide proof of residency in the state.
prove v.
- Nobody can prove his innocence but him.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141025baaa13be9c5de33b91f7314975355271bbbd38ba06e8ff9f78a12910c9cbd1f63c3.wma
The young musician's little brother had three heart operations when Ethan was only 5 years old. He remembers seeing a lot of sick children, including some who couldn't afford surgery. This experience made him want to use his talent to help those kids and many others. Since that time, Ethan has helped raise over $30 million for charities around the world! Many call him "the world's youngest philanthropist."
The performer often encourages audiences with words from his movie's theme song, "Believe in yourself. Anything is possible." Ethan Bortnick is living proof!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Surgery vs. Operation (Surgery與 Operation的差別)
外科手術:
1. surgery [uncountable]
I had surgery.
英國用法: 診所
2. operation [countable]
I had an operation.
Grammar Gym
The Bortnicks have reason to be proud of Ethan, but not just for his musical abilities.
[Subject] has reason to be... of...
- Esau had reason to dislike Jacob.
- Mary has reason to be nervous of dogs that are near her.
Info Cloud
normal adj.
usual, typical, or expected:
- It's quite normal to feel nervous when you're making a speech in front of a large audience.
abnormal adj.
very different from usual in a way that seems strange, worrying, wrong, or dangerous [≠ normal]:
- The abnormal behavior of the teacher has caused a great deal of concern among students and their parents.
musical adj.
relating to music or consisting of music:
- These musical instruments are the school's possession.
- The musical talent of the actress was finally discovered when she sang in the movie.
good at or interested in playing or singing music:
- a musical family
afford v.
to have enough money to buy or pay for something
- I don't think we can afford such a big house right now.
affordable adj.
- This compact car is practical and affordable.
proof n.
facts, information, documents etc that prove something is true
- Janet is living proof that people can lose weight without starving themselves.
- To apply for the benefits, you need to provide proof of residency in the state.
prove v.
- Nobody can prove his innocence but him.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141025baaa13be9c5de33b91f7314975355271bbbd38ba06e8ff9f78a12910c9cbd1f63c3.wma
Friday, October 24, 2014
Ethan Bortnick - Piano Prodigy (2)
With Dr. Kofman's help, Ethan learned about piano technique and different types of music. Before long, he was being asked to perform for many events. When one performance was posted on YouTube, Ethan became famous. Soon he was receiving invitations from the likes of Jay Leno and Oprah. Ethan was 6 and in kindergarten when he first appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
At that time, he already had over 200 songs memorized and was developing a CD.
Today, at the age of 13, it seems there is nothing Ethan cannot do. He plays piano, sings, composes songs and acts. He had entertained audiences around the world with music ranging from Beethoven to Bieber. He has performed with Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, and other legends.
In 2010, Ethan became the youngest musician to create and host his won TV concert special. Then in 2013, the performer starred in and wrote music for the movie Anything is Possible.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Staring vs. Starring (如何分辨Staring與Starring..)
stare 盯著看 staring
- caring/ sharing/ Stop staring!
star 演出 starring
- There's a star in the ring.
Grammar Gym
Before long, he was being asked to perform for many events.
Before long, [subject] was being asked to ...
- Before long, the new secretary was being asked to do more things around the office.
- Before long, Pamela was being asked to drive her grandmother to the store every morning.
Language Lab
the likes of
used to talk about people of a particular type:
- Ray was seated with the likes of two CEOs and a chairman.
- I don't think he will hang around with the likes of those dropouts.
memorize v.
to learn (something) so well that you are able to remember it perfectly
- Joshua spent a lot of time memorizing all the math formulas for his test.
- I tried to memorize her number, but I couldn't.
memorization n.
to learn (something) so well that you are able to remember it perfectly
- George loves to play memorization games with his son.
compose v.
to write a piece of music
- This song was composed by the singer herself.
- The music was composed for the animated movie The Little Mermaid.
composer n.
someone who writes music
- The composer of the symphony is only 25 years old.
host v.
to introduce a radio or television programme:
- The funny guy who hosts the talk show is the famous Jay Leno.
to provide the place and everything that is needed for an organized event:
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141024baa744f3a48cb9b311a07e6c0b694910adcf388d9e323d165d61627f7a8fe07032e.wma
At that time, he already had over 200 songs memorized and was developing a CD.
Today, at the age of 13, it seems there is nothing Ethan cannot do. He plays piano, sings, composes songs and acts. He had entertained audiences around the world with music ranging from Beethoven to Bieber. He has performed with Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, and other legends.
In 2010, Ethan became the youngest musician to create and host his won TV concert special. Then in 2013, the performer starred in and wrote music for the movie Anything is Possible.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Staring vs. Starring (如何分辨Staring與Starring..)
stare 盯著看 staring
- caring/ sharing/ Stop staring!
star 演出 starring
- There's a star in the ring.
Grammar Gym
Before long, he was being asked to perform for many events.
Before long, [subject] was being asked to ...
- Before long, the new secretary was being asked to do more things around the office.
- Before long, Pamela was being asked to drive her grandmother to the store every morning.
Language Lab
the likes of
used to talk about people of a particular type:
- Ray was seated with the likes of two CEOs and a chairman.
- I don't think he will hang around with the likes of those dropouts.
memorize v.
to learn (something) so well that you are able to remember it perfectly
- Joshua spent a lot of time memorizing all the math formulas for his test.
- I tried to memorize her number, but I couldn't.
memorization n.
to learn (something) so well that you are able to remember it perfectly
- George loves to play memorization games with his son.
compose v.
to write a piece of music
- This song was composed by the singer herself.
- The music was composed for the animated movie The Little Mermaid.
composer n.
someone who writes music
- The composer of the symphony is only 25 years old.
host v.
to introduce a radio or television programme:
- The funny guy who hosts the talk show is the famous Jay Leno.
to provide the place and everything that is needed for an organized event:
- Hank will be hosting the anniversary banquet.
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Ethan Bortnick - Piano Prodigy (1)
This young musician travels the world spreading his message of hope
One day Gene and Hannah Bortnick heard piano music coming from their living room. They thought their 3-year-old son Ethan was listening to a CD. Then they walked into the room. To their amazement, they found him playing music on his toy piano!
Before this, Ethan had begged his parents for piano lessons. But their answer had always been, "Of course not! You’re still in diapers." The 3-year-old didn't let that stop him, though. Instead, he listened to a song once and then played it perfectly, note for note.
After Ethan's parents discovered his remarkable talent, they changed their minds and agreed to lessons. They turned to a family member who taught piano, and she began working with Ethan. It wasn't long, however, before the teacher knew that he was no ordinary student. Ethan was a piano prodigy and needed someone who understood his special gifts and abilities. The family found Dr. Irena Kofman, who immediately recognized his talent and intelligence.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Talent, Gift and Genius (才能與天分)
talent 天份
gift 天份, 才能
- He has a gift for music.
- He has a gift for languages.
knack 技巧
- Steve has a knack for teaching English.
genius 天才
- He has a genius for music.
Grammar Gym
to turn=changing your direction so you are facing a new direction
- When Bobby was studying overseas and needed advice, he turned to his professor.
- Life was hard for the single mother, but she turned to her neighbor whenever she needed someone to watch her child.
Language Lab
prodigy n.
a young person who has a great natural ability in a subject or skill
- The child prodigy could solve difficult calculus questions when he was only six.
- There have been lots of reports about this Austrian tennis prodigy lately.
amazement n.
[uncountable] a feeling of great surprise [= astonishment]
- We stood at the top of the hill and looked at the view in amazement.
to someone's amazement
- To our amazement, the rookie signed a big client in his first month at work.
recognize v.
to know who someone is or what something is, because you have seen, heard, experienced, or learned about them in the past:
- The fugitive was recognized at a gas station down in Alabama.
- The actor's high school drama teacher recognized his potential as a movie star.
intelligence n.
[uncountable] the ability to learn, understand, and think about things:
- Our CEO is a woman of incredible intelligence.
intelligent adj.
an intelligent person has a high level of mental ability and is good at understanding ideas and thinking clearly:
- Merging with another company is an intelligent way to save our company.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141023baab41a13303b087c00adf7fca71aec353b037fe867e0b572f82c84571b3a0db5b3.wma
One day Gene and Hannah Bortnick heard piano music coming from their living room. They thought their 3-year-old son Ethan was listening to a CD. Then they walked into the room. To their amazement, they found him playing music on his toy piano!
Before this, Ethan had begged his parents for piano lessons. But their answer had always been, "Of course not! You’re still in diapers." The 3-year-old didn't let that stop him, though. Instead, he listened to a song once and then played it perfectly, note for note.
After Ethan's parents discovered his remarkable talent, they changed their minds and agreed to lessons. They turned to a family member who taught piano, and she began working with Ethan. It wasn't long, however, before the teacher knew that he was no ordinary student. Ethan was a piano prodigy and needed someone who understood his special gifts and abilities. The family found Dr. Irena Kofman, who immediately recognized his talent and intelligence.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Talent, Gift and Genius (才能與天分)
talent 天份
gift 天份, 才能
- He has a gift for music.
- He has a gift for languages.
knack 技巧
- Steve has a knack for teaching English.
genius 天才
- He has a genius for music.
Grammar Gym
to turn=changing your direction so you are facing a new direction
They turned to a family member who taught piano, ...
to turn to [somebody]= to get help from somebody- When Bobby was studying overseas and needed advice, he turned to his professor.
- Life was hard for the single mother, but she turned to her neighbor whenever she needed someone to watch her child.
Language Lab
prodigy n.
a young person who has a great natural ability in a subject or skill
- The child prodigy could solve difficult calculus questions when he was only six.
- There have been lots of reports about this Austrian tennis prodigy lately.
amazement n.
[uncountable] a feeling of great surprise [= astonishment]
- We stood at the top of the hill and looked at the view in amazement.
to someone's amazement
- To our amazement, the rookie signed a big client in his first month at work.
recognize v.
to know who someone is or what something is, because you have seen, heard, experienced, or learned about them in the past:
- The fugitive was recognized at a gas station down in Alabama.
- The actor's high school drama teacher recognized his potential as a movie star.
intelligence n.
[uncountable] the ability to learn, understand, and think about things:
- Our CEO is a woman of incredible intelligence.
intelligent adj.
an intelligent person has a high level of mental ability and is good at understanding ideas and thinking clearly:
- Merging with another company is an intelligent way to save our company.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141023baab41a13303b087c00adf7fca71aec353b037fe867e0b572f82c84571b3a0db5b3.wma
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Thomas Brodie-Sangster (2)
At about 16, Thomas had to make a decision. Did he really want to devote his life to acting? Many people in the public "aren't quite letting you be you because they see you as something special," he says. Also, bonds made during filming were often broken soon after the project finished. Despite these things, he found enough joy and satisfaction the work to continue.
Actually, Thomas seems to find joy in difficulty itself. He played 10-year-old Adolf Hitler in a TV movie and a teenage Paul McCartney in Nowhere Boy.
The subject of his film Death of a Superhero made it his most challenging film. Still, he found a positive message in its story of a schoolboy with cancer.
Thomas now enjoys roles in Game of Thrones and the upcoming Maze Runner films. Popular as those projects may be, most till recognize him as Sam in Love Actually.
Sam seems to run after Thomas, just as he ran through Heathrow airport to his sweetheart.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Subject vs. Theme (Subject和Theme的差別)
subject 就是 topic, 我們聊天一定會有一個話題,
例如: 愛情, 養生, 宗教, 都是不同的subject
theme 是一件藝術作品的中心思想或主旨,
或是小說裡的theme是作者要傳達的訊息,
也可以說是讀者要從當中學到的教訓,
所以一本愛情小說的subject是愛情,
但它的theme 可能是 love conquers all.
Grammar Gym
Popular as those projects may be, most till recognize him as Sam in Love Actually.
Language Lab
bond n.
something that unites two or more people or groups, such as love, or a shared interest or idea
- Babies develop bonds with their mothers quickly after they are born.
- Chinese society is known for strong family bonds. Family members are close at every stage of their lives.
despite preposition
used to say that something happens or is true even though something else might have prevented it [= in spite of]:
- Despite her illness, Natalie still goes to school every day.
- Sean still arrived at the office on time despite staying up late last night.
challenging adj.
difficult in an interesting or enjoyable way:
- Teaching is a very challenging profession.
- The course is quite challenging and interesting, too.
發人深省的
- The columnist raised some challenging questions in his article.
upcoming adj.
happening soon:
- My daughter is very excited about the upcoming May Day concert.
- All team members are in training to prepare for the upcoming game.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140916baa3b57805c7aedccd16e1180be0133e716119fc0955739cd7f8c1eb1ff888ad2df.wma
Actually, Thomas seems to find joy in difficulty itself. He played 10-year-old Adolf Hitler in a TV movie and a teenage Paul McCartney in Nowhere Boy.
The subject of his film Death of a Superhero made it his most challenging film. Still, he found a positive message in its story of a schoolboy with cancer.
Thomas now enjoys roles in Game of Thrones and the upcoming Maze Runner films. Popular as those projects may be, most till recognize him as Sam in Love Actually.
Sam seems to run after Thomas, just as he ran through Heathrow airport to his sweetheart.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Subject vs. Theme (Subject和Theme的差別)
subject 就是 topic, 我們聊天一定會有一個話題,
例如: 愛情, 養生, 宗教, 都是不同的subject
theme 是一件藝術作品的中心思想或主旨,
或是小說裡的theme是作者要傳達的訊息,
也可以說是讀者要從當中學到的教訓,
所以一本愛情小說的subject是愛情,
但它的theme 可能是 love conquers all.
Grammar Gym
Popular as those projects may be, most till recognize him as Sam in Love Actually.
[Adjective] as [something] may be, [situation].
- Affordable as this smartphone may be, most people would rather pay extra to get a smartphone from a bigger company.
- Dangerous as these shuttles may be, most passengers are still willing to ride them.
Language Lab
bond n.
something that unites two or more people or groups, such as love, or a shared interest or idea
- Babies develop bonds with their mothers quickly after they are born.
- Chinese society is known for strong family bonds. Family members are close at every stage of their lives.
despite preposition
used to say that something happens or is true even though something else might have prevented it [= in spite of]:
- Despite her illness, Natalie still goes to school every day.
- Sean still arrived at the office on time despite staying up late last night.
challenging adj.
difficult in an interesting or enjoyable way:
- Teaching is a very challenging profession.
- The course is quite challenging and interesting, too.
發人深省的
- The columnist raised some challenging questions in his article.
upcoming adj.
happening soon:
- My daughter is very excited about the upcoming May Day concert.
- All team members are in training to prepare for the upcoming game.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140916baa3b57805c7aedccd16e1180be0133e716119fc0955739cd7f8c1eb1ff888ad2df.wma
Monday, September 15, 2014
Thomas Brodie-Sangster (1)
Is that the kid from…?
Thomas Brodie-Sangster’s cars and action figures weren't just toys. "They would always be characters, and I would always put on stupid voices," says Thomas. For him, acting was just a matter of moving childhood games to a set.
Maturity and independence came to Thomas early as he started work at 10. After his first audition (for a little movie called Harry Potter), he learned about rejection. Though hurt and disappointed, he took a part in a tiny, unknown TV film in 2001. No one noticed his performance – no one except screenwriter Richard Curtis. Two years later, he played Sam, a 12-year-old in love in Curtis’ Love Actually.
After that hit film, he played actor Colin Firth’s son in Nanny McPhee. Firth then joined a film called The Last Legion and supported Thomas for its lead role. As a result, the boy played Rome’s final ruler in the action-adventure.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Titles Should Be Italicized 何時該用斜體字?
英文寫作文時, 如果是用電腦打字, 就可以使用斜體字,
如果文章是手寫時, 就不能用斜體字, 通常就會改用underline來取代 italics,
要注意不是用 quotation marks 引號取代斜體字,
但是我們如果用電腦文書處理時, 就該用斜體字,
只要是書籍, 報紙, 雜誌, 藝術品, 歌劇, 電影, 廣播節目等名稱,
都必需要用斜體字,
例如: Studio Classroom is the best magazine.
Studio Classroom 這二個字就必需用斜體字
Grammar Gym
For him, acting was just a matter of moving childhood games to a set.
[Something] is (just) a matter of [doing something]
Language Lab
rejection n.
the act of not accepting, believing in, or agreeing with something
- As a sales representative, you have to cope with constant rejection.
reject v.
to refuse to believe, accept, or consider (something)
- Valerie's application was rejected because she didn't meet the requirements.
disappointed adj. 感到失望的
unhappy because something you hoped for did not happen, or because someone or something was not as good as you expected:
- The team members were bitterly disappointed with the result of the game.
disappointing adj. 令人失望的
not as good as you hoped or expected:
- a disappointing performance
screenwriter n.
someone who writes plays for film or television
- This movie is the screenwriter's debut.
- This screenwriter is famous for his ability to cast.
playwright n.
someone who writes plays
- William Shakespeare is a legendary playwright.
legion n.
a large group of soldiers, especially in ancient Rome
- Michael's father used to serve in the French Foreign Legion.
a large number of people
- The pop star was surrounded by a legion of bodyguards.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140915baa605fe0f4104f72fe4347ec14563db1c3ba23fc8b47f6a9cd89765838bd0c51a6.wma
Thomas Brodie-Sangster’s cars and action figures weren't just toys. "They would always be characters, and I would always put on stupid voices," says Thomas. For him, acting was just a matter of moving childhood games to a set.
Maturity and independence came to Thomas early as he started work at 10. After his first audition (for a little movie called Harry Potter), he learned about rejection. Though hurt and disappointed, he took a part in a tiny, unknown TV film in 2001. No one noticed his performance – no one except screenwriter Richard Curtis. Two years later, he played Sam, a 12-year-old in love in Curtis’ Love Actually.
After that hit film, he played actor Colin Firth’s son in Nanny McPhee. Firth then joined a film called The Last Legion and supported Thomas for its lead role. As a result, the boy played Rome’s final ruler in the action-adventure.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Titles Should Be Italicized 何時該用斜體字?
英文寫作文時, 如果是用電腦打字, 就可以使用斜體字,
如果文章是手寫時, 就不能用斜體字, 通常就會改用underline來取代 italics,
要注意不是用 quotation marks 引號取代斜體字,
但是我們如果用電腦文書處理時, 就該用斜體字,
只要是書籍, 報紙, 雜誌, 藝術品, 歌劇, 電影, 廣播節目等名稱,
都必需要用斜體字,
例如: Studio Classroom is the best magazine.
Studio Classroom 這二個字就必需用斜體字
Grammar Gym
For him, acting was just a matter of moving childhood games to a set.
[Something] is (just) a matter of [doing something]
- A lot of people think this program is hard, but it really is just a matter of attending every class and getting your homework done on time.
- If you want to do a good job in the school competition, it's just a matter of being willing to practice every day.Language Lab
rejection n.
the act of not accepting, believing in, or agreeing with something
- As a sales representative, you have to cope with constant rejection.
reject v.
to refuse to believe, accept, or consider (something)
- Valerie's application was rejected because she didn't meet the requirements.
disappointed adj. 感到失望的
unhappy because something you hoped for did not happen, or because someone or something was not as good as you expected:
- The team members were bitterly disappointed with the result of the game.
disappointing adj. 令人失望的
not as good as you hoped or expected:
- a disappointing performance
screenwriter n.
someone who writes plays for film or television
- This movie is the screenwriter's debut.
- This screenwriter is famous for his ability to cast.
playwright n.
someone who writes plays
- William Shakespeare is a legendary playwright.
legion n.
a large group of soldiers, especially in ancient Rome
- Michael's father used to serve in the French Foreign Legion.
a large number of people
- The pop star was surrounded by a legion of bodyguards.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140915baa605fe0f4104f72fe4347ec14563db1c3ba23fc8b47f6a9cd89765838bd0c51a6.wma
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Corinna Chamberlain (2)
Chamberlain has always loved music, especially singing and dancing. After graduating from the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, she chose a musical career. Small singing and acting opportunities cam along, with TV appearances starting in 2008.
But two things happened in 2013 that brought her overnight fame. Chamberlain won a starring role in a popular nighttime TV show. She also released her first Cantopop single, "Yi Jung," which was enthusiastically accepted by Hong Kongers.
Through her singing and acting, Chamberlain demonstrated her flawless Cantonese and cultural understanding. Both helped her gain acceptance and respect. Today people on the street greet Chamberlain like one of the family, asking, "How's your mom?"
For years Chamberlain tried to figure out how to be like everyone around her. Now she feels differently about her identity. "I discovered as I grew up that I don't need to change to become someone else. Who I am actually has a lot to offer," the young woman remarked.
That's a lesson worth remembering!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Earworm and Other Non-words (耳蟲和其他的非單字)
一首歌聽久了, 歌曲的旋律就在腦海中忘不了,
這種現象就叫做earworm,
這個在正規的字典是找不到的,
因為這個字不是主流的字, 所以很少人用,
像這種字是被歸類為non-words(非單字)
要等到傳播媒體或有更多人用這個字時,
才會升格為正式的英文單字
Grammar Gym
come along: to be with someone and follow them
- The kids wanted to come along and visit their father's office.
Small singing and acting opportunities cam along, with TV appearances starting in 2008.
come along: to arrive, to appear
- If you want success to come along, you must work hard.
- The business almost failed until help suddenly came along.
Language Lab
graduate v.
to obtain a degree, especially a first degree, from a college or university
graduate from
- Rebecca is graduating from elementary school this summer.
graduate adj.
relating to or involved in studies done at a university after completing a first degree [= postgraduate British English]
- Ellen got accepted into the graduate program at Stanford.
overnight adj.
happening surprisingly quickly
- Overnight fame had a huge impact on this girl. She has changed a great deal.
happening during the night or for the night;
- Chelsea had overnight guests last night.
flawless adj.
having no mistakes or marks, or not lacking anything [= perfect]
- Because of her flawless performance, the figure skater received high scores from the judges.
acceptance n.
[uncountable] when you officially agree to take something that you have been offered
- Amanda won acceptance from her senior coworkers because of her hard work and humbleness.
accept v.
to take something that someone offers you, or to agree to do something that someone asks you to do [≠ refuse]
- I accept your apology.
acceptable adj.
good enough to be used for a particular purpose or to be considered satisfactory
- acceptable behavior
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140819baa69f7b98e7ba53f0a79eaf817e9f79e7d6c84e8b632209f709ad6e298ffc2a3c2.wma
But two things happened in 2013 that brought her overnight fame. Chamberlain won a starring role in a popular nighttime TV show. She also released her first Cantopop single, "Yi Jung," which was enthusiastically accepted by Hong Kongers.
Through her singing and acting, Chamberlain demonstrated her flawless Cantonese and cultural understanding. Both helped her gain acceptance and respect. Today people on the street greet Chamberlain like one of the family, asking, "How's your mom?"
For years Chamberlain tried to figure out how to be like everyone around her. Now she feels differently about her identity. "I discovered as I grew up that I don't need to change to become someone else. Who I am actually has a lot to offer," the young woman remarked.
That's a lesson worth remembering!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Earworm and Other Non-words (耳蟲和其他的非單字)
一首歌聽久了, 歌曲的旋律就在腦海中忘不了,
這種現象就叫做earworm,
這個在正規的字典是找不到的,
因為這個字不是主流的字, 所以很少人用,
像這種字是被歸類為non-words(非單字)
要等到傳播媒體或有更多人用這個字時,
才會升格為正式的英文單字
Grammar Gym
come along: to be with someone and follow them
- The kids wanted to come along and visit their father's office.
Small singing and acting opportunities cam along, with TV appearances starting in 2008.
come along: to arrive, to appear
- If you want success to come along, you must work hard.
- The business almost failed until help suddenly came along.
Language Lab
graduate v.
to obtain a degree, especially a first degree, from a college or university
graduate from
- Rebecca is graduating from elementary school this summer.
graduate adj.
relating to or involved in studies done at a university after completing a first degree [= postgraduate British English]
- Ellen got accepted into the graduate program at Stanford.
overnight adj.
happening surprisingly quickly
- Overnight fame had a huge impact on this girl. She has changed a great deal.
happening during the night or for the night;
- Chelsea had overnight guests last night.
flawless adj.
having no mistakes or marks, or not lacking anything [= perfect]
- Because of her flawless performance, the figure skater received high scores from the judges.
acceptance n.
[uncountable] when you officially agree to take something that you have been offered
- Amanda won acceptance from her senior coworkers because of her hard work and humbleness.
accept v.
to take something that someone offers you, or to agree to do something that someone asks you to do [≠ refuse]
- I accept your apology.
acceptable adj.
good enough to be used for a particular purpose or to be considered satisfactory
- acceptable behavior
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140819baa69f7b98e7ba53f0a79eaf817e9f79e7d6c84e8b632209f709ad6e298ffc2a3c2.wma
Monday, August 18, 2014
Corinna Chamberlain (1)
Hong Kong’s young new artist surprises her fans in more ways than one
Close your eyes and listen to this young artist sing, and you'll probably think she's Asian. Yet in reality, Corinna Chamberlain (陳明恩) is a blond, blue-eyed Westerner. Her life began in 1982 in Hong Kong when Chamberlian was born to missionary parents. Her Austration mom and New Zealander father chose not to live in a Western community. Instead, the family lived in a rural part of Hong Kong, where there were few foreigners.
Growing up, Chamberlian had mostly Chinese friends, and as a result, she speakings fluent Cantonese. Her understanding of Hong Kong and its people sets her apart from most Westerners. In spite of all that, Chamberlian suffered an identity crisis. "I was struggling as a teenager. Am I Chinese, or am I Western?" she asked herself. She felt, thought and spoke Chinese. But because she looked Western, the Chinese community didn't consider her "one of [their] own."
Yet all of that would change in a surprising way - through her music.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Count Your Blessings! (學英文已沒有那麼難了)
早期的英文單字有多種變換,
一個字可能有五種拼法,
五種發音, 有些形容詞可能有十一種變換,
而且可能有陽性跟陰性的分別,
現在的英文就簡單多了,
blond 這個字可以說是少數留下來的變換字,
他的拼法男女有別,
男性: blond, 女性: blonde
但在英語簡化的過程下,
有沒有按照這個規則已經沒有那麼重要了
Grammar Gym
Growing up, Chamberlian had mostly Chinese friends, and as a result, she speakings fluent Cantonese.
[Verb1-ing], [subject]+[verb1], and as a result, [subject]+[verb2].
- Studying at the university, Freddy had an early morning job, and as a result, he became a morning person.
- Traveling through Europe, Gloria tried all kinds of dishes, and as a result, she decided to open a restaurant.
Language Lab
blond adj. 金黃色
a man who is blond has pale or yellow hair
- The model in the shampoo commercial has beautiful blond hair.
blond n. 白皮膚金色頭髮的人
a woman with pale or yellow-coloured hair:
- Margaret is the only blond in her family.
instead adv. 反而；卻
used to say what is done, when you have just said that a particular thing is not done:
- Brenda didn't go to the States for graduate school. Instead, she went to England.
instead of prep. 替代
used to say what is not used, does not happen etc, when something else is used, happens etc:
- Instead of traditional Chinese food, the couple chose to serve a Western buffet at their wedding banquet.
set apart v. 使與眾不同；顯得特別突出
if a quality sets someone or something apart, it makes them different from or better than other people or things;
to keep something, especially a particular time, for a special purpose
- Tom's excellent math ability set him apart from the other students.
- Hanna's amazing looks set her apart from other contestants.
identity crisis n. 自我認同危機
a feeling of uncertainty about who you really are and what your purpose is
- Many people have an identity crisis during their teenage years.
midlife crisis n.中年危機
a period of worry and lack of confidence that some people experience when they are about 40 or 50 years old and begin to feel that they are getting old
- Ray is facing a midlife crisis now. He feels a sense of hopelessness.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140818baaa263fd45631eccd0df66f5cef2a97463e8cc271cdf1cdcbc7beab40872c7660a.wma
Close your eyes and listen to this young artist sing, and you'll probably think she's Asian. Yet in reality, Corinna Chamberlain (陳明恩) is a blond, blue-eyed Westerner. Her life began in 1982 in Hong Kong when Chamberlian was born to missionary parents. Her Austration mom and New Zealander father chose not to live in a Western community. Instead, the family lived in a rural part of Hong Kong, where there were few foreigners.
Growing up, Chamberlian had mostly Chinese friends, and as a result, she speakings fluent Cantonese. Her understanding of Hong Kong and its people sets her apart from most Westerners. In spite of all that, Chamberlian suffered an identity crisis. "I was struggling as a teenager. Am I Chinese, or am I Western?" she asked herself. She felt, thought and spoke Chinese. But because she looked Western, the Chinese community didn't consider her "one of [their] own."
Yet all of that would change in a surprising way - through her music.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Count Your Blessings! (學英文已沒有那麼難了)
早期的英文單字有多種變換,
一個字可能有五種拼法,
五種發音, 有些形容詞可能有十一種變換,
而且可能有陽性跟陰性的分別,
現在的英文就簡單多了,
blond 這個字可以說是少數留下來的變換字,
他的拼法男女有別,
男性: blond, 女性: blonde
但在英語簡化的過程下,
有沒有按照這個規則已經沒有那麼重要了
Grammar Gym
Growing up, Chamberlian had mostly Chinese friends, and as a result, she speakings fluent Cantonese.
[Verb1-ing], [subject]+[verb1], and as a result, [subject]+[verb2].
- Studying at the university, Freddy had an early morning job, and as a result, he became a morning person.
- Traveling through Europe, Gloria tried all kinds of dishes, and as a result, she decided to open a restaurant.
Language Lab
blond adj. 金黃色
a man who is blond has pale or yellow hair
- The model in the shampoo commercial has beautiful blond hair.
blond n. 白皮膚金色頭髮的人
a woman with pale or yellow-coloured hair:
- Margaret is the only blond in her family.
instead adv. 反而；卻
used to say what is done, when you have just said that a particular thing is not done:
- Brenda didn't go to the States for graduate school. Instead, she went to England.
instead of prep. 替代
used to say what is not used, does not happen etc, when something else is used, happens etc:
- Instead of traditional Chinese food, the couple chose to serve a Western buffet at their wedding banquet.
set apart v. 使與眾不同；顯得特別突出
if a quality sets someone or something apart, it makes them different from or better than other people or things;
to keep something, especially a particular time, for a special purpose
- Tom's excellent math ability set him apart from the other students.
- Hanna's amazing looks set her apart from other contestants.
identity crisis n. 自我認同危機
a feeling of uncertainty about who you really are and what your purpose is
- Many people have an identity crisis during their teenage years.
midlife crisis n.中年危機
a period of worry and lack of confidence that some people experience when they are about 40 or 50 years old and begin to feel that they are getting old
- Ray is facing a midlife crisis now. He feels a sense of hopelessness.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140818baaa263fd45631eccd0df66f5cef2a97463e8cc271cdf1cdcbc7beab40872c7660a.wma
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Shailene Woodley (2)
A life-changing opportunity
A high-profile project called The Descendants then gave her a chance to work in a major film. The four months she joined George Clooney in Hawaii to make the movie is a period she says shaped her young adult life. Her performance as a girl dealing with the possible death of her mother earned much attention and an Independent Spirit Award. However, she maintains, "I'm not a good actor. I'm just a professional listener."
A confident individual
Though "Secret Life" concluded last year, Woodley was reluctant to take on the sure-to-be hot film Divergent when offered to her because of its sheer size. But the celebration of the individuals she found in the popular book the film is based on "profoundly moved" her, "Everybody wants to fit in, which is so boring," she says, echoing her parents' first guideline. "I do not think one person is capable of being 'one thing' ever. That's just a stereotype." One gets the sense that Woodley fights for the right to be her own person just like her character Tris does.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Actor or Actress?
兩性平權的21世紀裡,
actor/actress actor也用來稱女演員, actress女演員則用來表示 獎項
以前空中小姐叫 stewardess, 現在則是空服員 flight attendant
Grammar Gym
The four months she joined George Clooney in Hawaii to make the movie is a period she says shaped her young adult life.
[amount of time] is/was a period [someone] says + verb.
- Mona's two years working on the farm was a period she says taught her the value of hard work.
- Nathan's summer with his grandfather was a period he says forced him to grow up.
Language Lab
life-changing adj. 可以改變人生的
- The car accident was a life-changing experience for Ray; he has learned to cherish every moment in life.
- Getting married is a life-changing decision.
high-profile adj. 備受矚目的, 高知名度的
attracting a lot of public attention, usually deliberately
- Many high-profile production houses are interested in this script.
- This high-profile case is reported on TV news almost every day.
sheer adj. 完全的, 十足的
used to emphasize that something is very heavy, large etc;
luck, happiness etc with no other feeling or quality mixed with it [= pure]:
- The sheer delight of enjoying family time with my kids is incomparable.
- His success is sheer luck.
stereotype n.刻板印象
a belief or idea of what a particular type of person or thing is like. Stereotypes are often unfair or untrue
- Sherry doesn't fit the stereotype of a business woman. She's calm, intelligent and sweet.
stereotype v. to decide unfairly that a type of person has particular qualities or abilities because they belong to a particular race, sex, or social class
- Asians are stereotyped in most Hollywood film. sure-to-be
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140626baa9786fa20f253dcc84359f8259763bae69a2c146ab788be6d48b489a2b5f4d836.wma
A high-profile project called The Descendants then gave her a chance to work in a major film. The four months she joined George Clooney in Hawaii to make the movie is a period she says shaped her young adult life. Her performance as a girl dealing with the possible death of her mother earned much attention and an Independent Spirit Award. However, she maintains, "I'm not a good actor. I'm just a professional listener."
A confident individual
Though "Secret Life" concluded last year, Woodley was reluctant to take on the sure-to-be hot film Divergent when offered to her because of its sheer size. But the celebration of the individuals she found in the popular book the film is based on "profoundly moved" her, "Everybody wants to fit in, which is so boring," she says, echoing her parents' first guideline. "I do not think one person is capable of being 'one thing' ever. That's just a stereotype." One gets the sense that Woodley fights for the right to be her own person just like her character Tris does.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Actor or Actress?
兩性平權的21世紀裡,
actor/actress actor也用來稱女演員, actress女演員則用來表示 獎項
以前空中小姐叫 stewardess, 現在則是空服員 flight attendant
Grammar Gym
The four months she joined George Clooney in Hawaii to make the movie is a period she says shaped her young adult life.
[amount of time] is/was a period [someone] says + verb.
- Mona's two years working on the farm was a period she says taught her the value of hard work.
- Nathan's summer with his grandfather was a period he says forced him to grow up.
Language Lab
life-changing adj. 可以改變人生的
- The car accident was a life-changing experience for Ray; he has learned to cherish every moment in life.
- Getting married is a life-changing decision.
high-profile adj. 備受矚目的, 高知名度的
attracting a lot of public attention, usually deliberately
- Many high-profile production houses are interested in this script.
- This high-profile case is reported on TV news almost every day.
sheer adj. 完全的, 十足的
used to emphasize that something is very heavy, large etc;
luck, happiness etc with no other feeling or quality mixed with it [= pure]:
- The sheer delight of enjoying family time with my kids is incomparable.
- His success is sheer luck.
stereotype n.刻板印象
a belief or idea of what a particular type of person or thing is like. Stereotypes are often unfair or untrue
- Sherry doesn't fit the stereotype of a business woman. She's calm, intelligent and sweet.
stereotype v. to decide unfairly that a type of person has particular qualities or abilities because they belong to a particular race, sex, or social class
- Asians are stereotyped in most Hollywood film. sure-to-be
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140626baa9786fa20f253dcc84359f8259763bae69a2c146ab788be6d48b489a2b5f4d836.wma
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Shailene Woodley (1)
Don't try to put this young Divergent star in a box
Shailene Woodley starts every day with a simple refrain:" Good morning, good morning! Exciting day!" Choosing to be positive on a daily basis clearly has its benefits when viewing Woodley's advancing work and success as evidence.
An accidental career
Though Woodley insists that her acting careers was an accident, she started getting parts in numerous commercials as a child. Her parents gave her three guidelines as an actor, to stay true to herself, have fun and do well in school. Accepting the challenge, Woodley took on commercials which were soon replace with TV shows such as The O.C. and CSI: NY while she remained in school.
An eventful education
High school proved to be eventful for Woodley in both good and bad ways. First, she learned she had scoliosis, which put her in a brace for about two years to straighten her back. When she was 15 years old, her parents were divorced. Soon after, she was cast as the resolute lead in The Secret Life of the American Teenager. Her life experiences helped her relate to her role in the show, which dealt with many teen issues. All the while, Woodley did schoolwork between takes as she filmed for 30 to 50 hours per week.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is a Teenager?
teenager 青少年, 指13-19歲的青少年, thirteen - nineteen (有teen在字尾)
nineteen 19歲已不算青少年
adolescent 較正式, 指幼年期至成年期間的青少年
young adult 剛過青春期, 正要邁入成年的人, 13-17歲
juvenile 心智尚未成熟的年輕人或小孩, 法律領域使用
juvenile court 少年法庭
Grammar Gym
All the while, Woodley did schoolwork between takes as she filmed for 30 to 50 hours per week.
All the while: during this time
- Although the scientist did check on his experiment every day, he had his doubts all the while.
- Lynn knew all the while that her friends were planning to surprise her.
Language Lab
refrain n. 重複說的話
part of a song or poem that is repeated, especially at the end of each verse;
a remark or idea that is often repeated:
- Darlene's constant refrain is that she wants to quit her job.
- "Location, location, location!" is a common refrain in the real estate market.
replace v. 取代
to start doing something instead of another person, or start being used instead of another thing:
- Molly was replaced by her assistant.
replacement n. 替代，替代的人或事務
someone or something that replaces another person or thing
replacement for
- Theo is leaving the job, but we still can't find a good replacement for him.
eventful adj. 充滿事故的, 大事件的
full of interesting or important events:
- We had an eventful year; a change of CEO, a serious merger and a relocation of our headquarters.
resolute adj. 剛毅的, 堅定的
doing something in a very determined way because you have very strong beliefs, aims etc
- The president proved himself as a brave and resolute leader through the crisis.
- We need to take resolute action to solve this problem.
resolution n. 立志
a promise to yourself to do something
New Year's resolution (=a resolution made on January 1st)
- Losing 10 pounds is my New Year's resolution.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140625baad85a6f886c595adf7af1b918c728486e1e0d1bfa552151326daf32d609aaafca.wma
Shailene Woodley starts every day with a simple refrain:" Good morning, good morning! Exciting day!" Choosing to be positive on a daily basis clearly has its benefits when viewing Woodley's advancing work and success as evidence.
An accidental career
Though Woodley insists that her acting careers was an accident, she started getting parts in numerous commercials as a child. Her parents gave her three guidelines as an actor, to stay true to herself, have fun and do well in school. Accepting the challenge, Woodley took on commercials which were soon replace with TV shows such as The O.C. and CSI: NY while she remained in school.
An eventful education
High school proved to be eventful for Woodley in both good and bad ways. First, she learned she had scoliosis, which put her in a brace for about two years to straighten her back. When she was 15 years old, her parents were divorced. Soon after, she was cast as the resolute lead in The Secret Life of the American Teenager. Her life experiences helped her relate to her role in the show, which dealt with many teen issues. All the while, Woodley did schoolwork between takes as she filmed for 30 to 50 hours per week.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is a Teenager?
teenager 青少年, 指13-19歲的青少年, thirteen - nineteen (有teen在字尾)
nineteen 19歲已不算青少年
adolescent 較正式, 指幼年期至成年期間的青少年
young adult 剛過青春期, 正要邁入成年的人, 13-17歲
juvenile 心智尚未成熟的年輕人或小孩, 法律領域使用
juvenile court 少年法庭
Grammar Gym
All the while, Woodley did schoolwork between takes as she filmed for 30 to 50 hours per week.
All the while: during this time
- Although the scientist did check on his experiment every day, he had his doubts all the while.
- Lynn knew all the while that her friends were planning to surprise her.
Language Lab
refrain n. 重複說的話
part of a song or poem that is repeated, especially at the end of each verse;
a remark or idea that is often repeated:
- Darlene's constant refrain is that she wants to quit her job.
- "Location, location, location!" is a common refrain in the real estate market.
replace v. 取代
to start doing something instead of another person, or start being used instead of another thing:
- Molly was replaced by her assistant.
replacement n. 替代，替代的人或事務
someone or something that replaces another person or thing
replacement for
- Theo is leaving the job, but we still can't find a good replacement for him.
eventful adj. 充滿事故的, 大事件的
full of interesting or important events:
- We had an eventful year; a change of CEO, a serious merger and a relocation of our headquarters.
resolute adj. 剛毅的, 堅定的
doing something in a very determined way because you have very strong beliefs, aims etc
- The president proved himself as a brave and resolute leader through the crisis.
- We need to take resolute action to solve this problem.
resolution n. 立志
a promise to yourself to do something
New Year's resolution (=a resolution made on January 1st)
- Losing 10 pounds is my New Year's resolution.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140625baad85a6f886c595adf7af1b918c728486e1e0d1bfa552151326daf32d609aaafca.wma
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Josh Hutcherson: Boy No More (2)
The boy finds balance
Josh began to realize the conflicts in balancing his life at an early age. Though he continues to call Kentucky home, acting takes him to different places. Much of Bridge to Terabithia, featuring Josh as the lead, was filmed in New Zealand. While traveling may be fun, Josh was kept from seeing much of the country because of his education. Young actors must have at least three hours of tutoring a day, sometimes done between takes.
The boy in the plot
Now 22 years old, Josh has over 20 films under his belt. The list includes both Hunger Games films with two more to come this year and next. That series, Express, Terabithia and some of Josh's other films have been adapted from books. "Every time I read anything," he says, "I automatically imagine myself as the boy in the plot." Josh's family has even started JetLag Productions to make more books into films. Though Josh is now a young man, audiences can tell the boy's imagination and spirit remain.
Grammar Gym
- Though he continues to call Kentucky home, acting takes him to different places.
to call home: to make a phone call and talk to someone who's at home
to call [somewhere] home: to think of somewhere as being the place where one belongs
- Although Sharon was born in Toronto, she grew up in Asia and calls Hong Kong home.
- Nina is from San Francisco, but after working in Europe for over ten years, she now calls London home.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Jet Lag
可當名詞片語
- Do you feel any jet lag? Yes, I'm suffering from jet lag.
- I am jet-lagged.
Language Lab
tutor v.
to teach someone as a tutor:
- Eileen tutors many disadvantaged kids in her community.
tutor n.
someone who gives private lessons to one student or a small group, and is paid directly by them
- Zack is my math tutor.
tutoring n.
- Sean needs private tutoring to catch up with the other students.
take v.
to get hold of something in your hands:
take n.
an occasion when a film scene, song, action etc is recorded
- The director finally said "OK" after 10 takes.
- The scene needed more than 15 takes before it was done right.
under one's belt
to have achieved something useful or important:
- Once you get this project under your belt, it will be easy to get promoted.
- He's a man with a lot of work experience under his belt.
automatically adv.
as the result of a situation or action, and without you having to do anything more;
without thinking about what you are doing:
- Jessica automatically answered "yes" when the boss asked her to work overtime.
- Your bank statement will be e-mailed to you automatically.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140522baa1a0c0271a8a36f77ed2d0603fb112cf410d23e3e0f2707a8fc5dcecb46fe085f.wma
Josh began to realize the conflicts in balancing his life at an early age. Though he continues to call Kentucky home, acting takes him to different places. Much of Bridge to Terabithia, featuring Josh as the lead, was filmed in New Zealand. While traveling may be fun, Josh was kept from seeing much of the country because of his education. Young actors must have at least three hours of tutoring a day, sometimes done between takes.
The boy in the plot
Now 22 years old, Josh has over 20 films under his belt. The list includes both Hunger Games films with two more to come this year and next. That series, Express, Terabithia and some of Josh's other films have been adapted from books. "Every time I read anything," he says, "I automatically imagine myself as the boy in the plot." Josh's family has even started JetLag Productions to make more books into films. Though Josh is now a young man, audiences can tell the boy's imagination and spirit remain.
Grammar Gym
- Though he continues to call Kentucky home, acting takes him to different places.
to call home: to make a phone call and talk to someone who's at home
to call [somewhere] home: to think of somewhere as being the place where one belongs
- Although Sharon was born in Toronto, she grew up in Asia and calls Hong Kong home.
- Nina is from San Francisco, but after working in Europe for over ten years, she now calls London home.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Jet Lag
可當名詞片語
- Do you feel any jet lag? Yes, I'm suffering from jet lag.
- I am jet-lagged.
Language Lab
tutor v.
to teach someone as a tutor:
- Eileen tutors many disadvantaged kids in her community.
tutor n.
someone who gives private lessons to one student or a small group, and is paid directly by them
- Zack is my math tutor.
tutoring n.
- Sean needs private tutoring to catch up with the other students.
take v.
to get hold of something in your hands:
take n.
an occasion when a film scene, song, action etc is recorded
- The director finally said "OK" after 10 takes.
- The scene needed more than 15 takes before it was done right.
under one's belt
to have achieved something useful or important:
- Once you get this project under your belt, it will be easy to get promoted.
- He's a man with a lot of work experience under his belt.
automatically adv.
as the result of a situation or action, and without you having to do anything more;
without thinking about what you are doing:
- Jessica automatically answered "yes" when the boss asked her to work overtime.
- Your bank statement will be e-mailed to you automatically.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140522baa1a0c0271a8a36f77ed2d0603fb112cf410d23e3e0f2707a8fc5dcecb46fe085f.wma
Thursday, March 6, 2014
ARIANA GRANDE (2)
Making time for others
Even with Ariana's busy schedule, she finds time to care for others. When she was 10, she helped start a youth singing group called Kids Who Care. The group raises funds for charities, and in 2007, they raised over US$500,000. In 2009, Ariana traveled to South Africa, where she performed and taught music to sick children.
Ariana's fans love her kind and friendly manner, and she appreciates them. She stays in regular contact with more than 10 million Twitter followers and over 7.5 million Instagram followers. Ariana also has millions of Facebook likes.
Staying sweet
Many young artists allow fame to change them in a negative way. But not Ariana. She recently told Rolling Stone magazine, "I don't feel much pressure to fit in. I have really good friends and good family. And if I don't fit in somewhere else, I fit in at home."
With that kind of attitude, Ariana's star will shine brightly for years to come.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is Charity?
charitable organization 慈善機構
charity 慈善行為
faith, hope and charity 信望愛
charity begins at home 先愛家人才能幫助他人
Grammar Gym
Even with Ariana's busy schedule, she finds time to care for others.
Even with..., [subject] finds time to...
- Even with three part-time jobs, Joseph finds time to do his homework.
- Even with her three little children to look after, Melody finds time to bake a cake every day.
Language Lab
fund n.
- The program was terminated because of insufficient funds.
raise fund
- These high school kids are holding a car wash to raise funds for charity.
appreciate v.
to be grateful for (something)
- I really appreciate your hospitality.
- Your support is much appreciated.
to understand the worth or importance of (something or someone) : to admire and value (something or someone)
- Not many people appreciate this kind of music.
fame n.
[noncount] : the condition of being known or recognized by many people
- Tom's singing career brought him frame and riches.
- Sherry moved to Hollywood in search of fame and fortune.
famous adj.
known or recognized by very many people : having fame
- Fans gathered around the famous actor asking for his autograph.
pressure n.
the weight or force that is produced when something presses or pushes against something else [noncount]
- Athletes are under a great deal of pressure during the competitions.
- Add pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.
Even with Ariana's busy schedule, she finds time to care for others. When she was 10, she helped start a youth singing group called Kids Who Care. The group raises funds for charities, and in 2007, they raised over US$500,000. In 2009, Ariana traveled to South Africa, where she performed and taught music to sick children.
Ariana's fans love her kind and friendly manner, and she appreciates them. She stays in regular contact with more than 10 million Twitter followers and over 7.5 million Instagram followers. Ariana also has millions of Facebook likes.
Staying sweet
Many young artists allow fame to change them in a negative way. But not Ariana. She recently told Rolling Stone magazine, "I don't feel much pressure to fit in. I have really good friends and good family. And if I don't fit in somewhere else, I fit in at home."
With that kind of attitude, Ariana's star will shine brightly for years to come.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is Charity?
charitable organization 慈善機構
charity 慈善行為
faith, hope and charity 信望愛
charity begins at home 先愛家人才能幫助他人
Grammar Gym
Even with Ariana's busy schedule, she finds time to care for others.
Even with..., [subject] finds time to...
- Even with three part-time jobs, Joseph finds time to do his homework.
- Even with her three little children to look after, Melody finds time to bake a cake every day.
Language Lab
fund n.
- The program was terminated because of insufficient funds.
raise fund
- These high school kids are holding a car wash to raise funds for charity.
appreciate v.
to be grateful for (something)
- I really appreciate your hospitality.
- Your support is much appreciated.
to understand the worth or importance of (something or someone) : to admire and value (something or someone)
- Not many people appreciate this kind of music.
fame n.
[noncount] : the condition of being known or recognized by many people
- Tom's singing career brought him frame and riches.
- Sherry moved to Hollywood in search of fame and fortune.
famous adj.
known or recognized by very many people : having fame
- Fans gathered around the famous actor asking for his autograph.
pressure n.
the weight or force that is produced when something presses or pushes against something else [noncount]
- Athletes are under a great deal of pressure during the competitions.
- Add pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.
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