Amelia Earhart
Certain names have become synonymous with mystery,and Amelia Earhart is a prime example. Her goal of flying around the globe at the equator held the world’s attention, but her disappearance intrigued it even more. The year was 1937, and Earhart’s mission was nearing completion, about 22,000 miles flown and 7,000 ahead. Earhart and her navigator Fred Noonan took off from New Guinea, heading for tiny Howland Island where an American ship awaited them. Earhart lost communication with the ship during the flight and never arrived.
Searches for Earhart and Noonan were conducted, but neither they nor their plane was ever found. The wildest theories have Earhart landing elsewhere and assuming a new identity or being captured by the Japanese as a secret American spy. Many believe the plane ran out offuel, resulting in Earhart and Noonan’s death at sea, but recent findings support a different possibility. A piece of metal found in 1991 on an island in Kirbati was confirmed as part of her plane just last year. The search for more evidence there continues, giving hope that this decades-old mystery may yet be solved.
Language Lab
synonymous adj.
/səˈnɑːnəməs/
— often + with
having the same meaning
- Wealth and fame are not necessarily synonymous with happiness.
synonym n.
/ˈsɪnəˌnɪm/
a word that has the same meaning as another word in the same language
- "Shy" and "timid" are synonyms.
navigator n.
a person who finds out how to get to a place : a person who navigates a ship, an airplane, etc.
- Jacob is a skillful navigator who has an excellent sense of direction.
navigate v.
to find the way to get to a place when you are traveling in a ship, airplane, car, etc.
- Our captain safely navigated the ship out of this icy area.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20150411baa8fd3137c993a9bc4ca0584702da5134b57d75d04fc6a3709050db1982f4bba79.wma
Showing posts with label mystery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mystery. Show all posts
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Friday, April 10, 2015
Unsolved Mysteries of the World (2)
The Bronze Age Collapse
History contains many odd footnote, but it also contains whole chapters that demand an explanation when none can be found. The unexpected end of the Bronze Age is such a chapter, seeing the sudden end of several strong civilizations. What could bring powers such as the Assyrians, Canaanites and Egyptians to their knees? The answer may be on a column in the great Egyptian city of Tanis: “They came from the sea in their warships and none could stand against them.”
The Sea Peoples, still unidentified today, are often blamed for the end of this period. They attacked coastal cities repeatedly and often won battles even though their weapons were inferior. After about 100 years of conflict, the Sea Peoples vanished when Egypt finally defeated them in 1178 B.C.
The Sea Peoples seem to have been made up of peoples from different groups, but all evidence is unclear. How did such a force gather and where did they go? Recent studies show that the Bronze Age may have ended due to droughts rather than these ancient warriors, but the mystery endures.
Language Lab
bronze n.
a hard metal that is a mixture of copper and tin:
- The statue was made of bronze and created by a famous artist.
- This young athlete won bronze for his country in his first Olympics.
bronze adj. 古銅色
having the dark reddish brown colour of bronze
- bronze hair/ bronze skin
footnote n.
a note at the bottom of the page in a book, which gives more information about something
- He put a footnote at the bottom of the page to remind himself to find more references.
a piece of additional information that is not very important but is interesting or helps you understand something
- The battle became just a footnote in history.
History contains many odd footnote, but it also contains whole chapters that demand an explanation when none can be found. The unexpected end of the Bronze Age is such a chapter, seeing the sudden end of several strong civilizations. What could bring powers such as the Assyrians, Canaanites and Egyptians to their knees? The answer may be on a column in the great Egyptian city of Tanis: “They came from the sea in their warships and none could stand against them.”
The Sea Peoples, still unidentified today, are often blamed for the end of this period. They attacked coastal cities repeatedly and often won battles even though their weapons were inferior. After about 100 years of conflict, the Sea Peoples vanished when Egypt finally defeated them in 1178 B.C.
The Sea Peoples seem to have been made up of peoples from different groups, but all evidence is unclear. How did such a force gather and where did they go? Recent studies show that the Bronze Age may have ended due to droughts rather than these ancient warriors, but the mystery endures.
Language Lab
bronze n.
a hard metal that is a mixture of copper and tin:
- The statue was made of bronze and created by a famous artist.
- This young athlete won bronze for his country in his first Olympics.
bronze adj. 古銅色
having the dark reddish brown colour of bronze
- bronze hair/ bronze skin
footnote n.
a note at the bottom of the page in a book, which gives more information about something
- He put a footnote at the bottom of the page to remind himself to find more references.
a piece of additional information that is not very important but is interesting or helps you understand something
- The battle became just a footnote in history.
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Unsolved Mysteries of the World (1)
Some stories still have no resolution
Today, we often pride ourselves in the advanced medicine,technology and scientific proficiency of our world. And yet history is hull of stories proving that the world is still mysterious and that all our advancements can’t satisfy us with answers.
The Green Children of Woolpit
In 12th century England, harvesters working outside the village of Woolpit caught sight of a young girl and boy.They wore clothes of unknown material and spoke an unknown language, but these details were not as strange as the green color of their skin. The boy grew sick and died, but the girl survived, eventually losing her green tint,learning English and marring an Englishman.
One theory states that they were Belgian immigrants separated from their parents during a nearby battle. Living in a dark forest with little food is said to account for their green skin color. Others claim them to be aliens from another planet or dimension. While the story may be easily dismissed as fictional, some doubt is cast by accounts from both a historian and an abbot.
Language Lab
proficiency n.
a good standard of ability and skill
- Irene's proficiency as an interpreter is unquestionable.
proficiency in/with/at
- Basic proficiency in computer software is a prerequisite for this position.
proficient
- Chelsea is proficient in five languages.
tint n.
a small amount of a particular color
- The paint we're using on our exterior wall is grey with a blue tint.
an artificial color that is used to slightly change the color of your hair:
- Sherry had a brunette tint put in her hair.
tint v.
to slightly change the color of something, especially hair
- Her eyebrows were tinted blonde.
dimension n.
/dəˈmɛnʃən/
a part of a situation or a quality involved in it
- The story is about a guy who accidentally entered the fourth dimension.
how great or serious a problem is:
- The dimension of the reform's impact is greater than we expected.
fiction n.
books and stories about imaginary people and events [≠ non-fiction]:
fictional adj.
fictional people, events etc are imaginary and from a book or story:
- Sherlock Holmes is a renowned fictional detective.
- The movie is based on a true story instead of a fictional one.
Today, we often pride ourselves in the advanced medicine,technology and scientific proficiency of our world. And yet history is hull of stories proving that the world is still mysterious and that all our advancements can’t satisfy us with answers.
The Green Children of Woolpit
In 12th century England, harvesters working outside the village of Woolpit caught sight of a young girl and boy.They wore clothes of unknown material and spoke an unknown language, but these details were not as strange as the green color of their skin. The boy grew sick and died, but the girl survived, eventually losing her green tint,learning English and marring an Englishman.
One theory states that they were Belgian immigrants separated from their parents during a nearby battle. Living in a dark forest with little food is said to account for their green skin color. Others claim them to be aliens from another planet or dimension. While the story may be easily dismissed as fictional, some doubt is cast by accounts from both a historian and an abbot.
Language Lab
proficiency n.
a good standard of ability and skill
- Irene's proficiency as an interpreter is unquestionable.
proficiency in/with/at
- Basic proficiency in computer software is a prerequisite for this position.
proficient
- Chelsea is proficient in five languages.
tint n.
a small amount of a particular color
- The paint we're using on our exterior wall is grey with a blue tint.
an artificial color that is used to slightly change the color of your hair:
- Sherry had a brunette tint put in her hair.
tint v.
to slightly change the color of something, especially hair
- Her eyebrows were tinted blonde.
dimension n.
/dəˈmɛnʃən/
a part of a situation or a quality involved in it
- The story is about a guy who accidentally entered the fourth dimension.
how great or serious a problem is:
- The dimension of the reform's impact is greater than we expected.
fiction n.
books and stories about imaginary people and events [≠ non-fiction]:
fictional adj.
fictional people, events etc are imaginary and from a book or story:
- Sherlock Holmes is a renowned fictional detective.
- The movie is based on a true story instead of a fictional one.
Saturday, October 4, 2014
The Mix-Up (Part 6 of 6) (2)
First, my name is not Erica. It isn't amusing to keep calling me by my character's name off camera. And secondly, what is your issue?
Be nice to him, Sally. It's not his fault you got into his taxi and not the prop one.
You mean he isn't the actor you hired to be the driver in the movie?
No, but I'm going to offer him a job here.
A job, sir?
Your driving skills really made an impression on me. We need another stunt driver. Would you be interested in working for our company?
You're offering me a job as a driver? Really? Uh... I would love to. I need to talk to my wife first, though.
No problem. Take your time.
Leo walked away to an area where no one could overhear what he was saying. Pulling out his cellphone, he called his wife and explained the situation to her. She was excited. He had been so tired of his job for so long, and this sounded perfect. He could take all the skills he had and use them in a fresh way. Leo grinned. He couldn't think of anything that could possibly be better.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: -ed or -ing? (-ed與 -ing字尾的差別)
-ed 字尾形容詞通常表達一個人的感覺
-ing 字尾形容詞用於表達一個人事物的特徵
Language Lab
amusing adj. [amuse v.]
funny and entertaining :
- It's amusing to see my daughter walking around the house in my heels.
- The movie is both amusing and educational at the same time.
stunt n.
a dangerous action that is done to entertain people, especially in a film;
something that is done to attract people's attention, especially in advertising or politics:
- The stunts in the movie were done by professionals.
stunt man n.
a man who is employed to take the place of an actor when something dangerous has to be done in a film
- The stunt man almost got hurt when he jumped out of the truck.
overhear v.
past tense and past participle overheard
to accidentally hear what other people are saying, when they do not know that you have heard:
- I overheard the couple's private conversation.
- The boy overheard his classmates saying bad things about him.
cellphone n.
cellular phone
- HTC's latest cellphone is quite popular among young people.
- Diana is on her cellphone now.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141004baa356f52d64240ffba9ce1947a8ac2655db109f22031ceb9cd1df129f2f7cf1e31.wma
Be nice to him, Sally. It's not his fault you got into his taxi and not the prop one.
You mean he isn't the actor you hired to be the driver in the movie?
No, but I'm going to offer him a job here.
A job, sir?
Your driving skills really made an impression on me. We need another stunt driver. Would you be interested in working for our company?
You're offering me a job as a driver? Really? Uh... I would love to. I need to talk to my wife first, though.
No problem. Take your time.
Leo walked away to an area where no one could overhear what he was saying. Pulling out his cellphone, he called his wife and explained the situation to her. She was excited. He had been so tired of his job for so long, and this sounded perfect. He could take all the skills he had and use them in a fresh way. Leo grinned. He couldn't think of anything that could possibly be better.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: -ed or -ing? (-ed與 -ing字尾的差別)
-ed 字尾形容詞通常表達一個人的感覺
-ing 字尾形容詞用於表達一個人事物的特徵
Language Lab
amusing adj. [amuse v.]
- It's amusing to see my daughter walking around the house in my heels.
- The movie is both amusing and educational at the same time.
stunt n.
a dangerous action that is done to entertain people, especially in a film;
something that is done to attract people's attention, especially in advertising or politics:
- The stunts in the movie were done by professionals.
stunt man n.
a man who is employed to take the place of an actor when something dangerous has to be done in a film
- The stunt man almost got hurt when he jumped out of the truck.
overhear v.
past tense and past participle overheard
to accidentally hear what other people are saying, when they do not know that you have heard:
- I overheard the couple's private conversation.
- The boy overheard his classmates saying bad things about him.
cellphone n.
cellular phone
- HTC's latest cellphone is quite popular among young people.
- Diana is on her cellphone now.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141004baa356f52d64240ffba9ce1947a8ac2655db109f22031ceb9cd1df129f2f7cf1e31.wma
Friday, October 3, 2014
The Mix-Up (Part 6 of 6) (1)
What was this wild taxi ride really about?
"Cut!" Suddenly Leo was hauled to his feet. He staggered around briefly. When he finally caught his balance again, he realized that the police weren't paying any attention to him. He scrambled out of the way of a man carrying a ladder. Looking around, he noticed that a lot of people were walking around with headsets on. A couple of them were giving him strange glances, but most were just completely ignoring him. Leo nearly jumped out of his skin when he felt Erica tap him on the shoulder.
How did you get away? And why did the police just let me go?
You're funny. I was just coming over to tell you that you did a good job.
Well, thanks. I told you I would help you.
Very funny, but we're not acting anymore. You can lighten up on the personality there.
Wait. What are you talking about?
I'm talking about the movie we've been filming for the last few months!
Where have you been?
Movie? I'm utterly confused. Erica, what does any of this have to do with a movie?
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Watching Movies to Learn English 看電影學英文
看電影可以增進聽力, 發音, 增加英文字彙,
電影是一種情境, 可以學習在什麼時候用什麼字,
另外可以從演員的表情, 手勢等, 來猜測字的意思,
如果聽力還不夠好, 可以先依賴字幕,
等到英文進步許多, 可以拿掉字幕
Grammar Gym
What does any of this have to do with a movie?
have to do:
I have to do some work.
have to do with: relating or connecting to
- What does Egyptian cotton have to do with the American Civil War?
- The boy's behavior has to do with the kind of family environment that he's from.
Language Lab
stagger v.
to move or cause (someone) to move unsteadily from side to side
- The drunk man staggered toward his home but fell on the ground.
- Marci had to lean on the wall as she staggered up the stairs.
- The homeless guy staggered down the street in the cold wind.
scramble v.
to move or act quickly to do, find, or get something often before someone else does
- Alex scrambled out of bed when he realized he was late for work.
to move or climb over something quickly especially while also using your hands
- We scrambled to the top of the mountain to see the sunrise.
lighten up v. [phrasal verb]
to become more relaxed and informal : to stop being serious, worried, etc.
- Lighten up! It's just a game.
- Come on, lighten up! I was just kidding.
utterly adv.
complete and total
- The actor utterly captivated the audience's attention.
- Nathan is utterly devoted to his career.
utter adj.
- To my utter surprise, my son bought me a bouquet of flowers for my birthday.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141003baa9168f1c501e9b8414a2e869f9f0974f0d8ecbb5c3a3cc686fe55c33dcd13d5e9.wma
"Cut!" Suddenly Leo was hauled to his feet. He staggered around briefly. When he finally caught his balance again, he realized that the police weren't paying any attention to him. He scrambled out of the way of a man carrying a ladder. Looking around, he noticed that a lot of people were walking around with headsets on. A couple of them were giving him strange glances, but most were just completely ignoring him. Leo nearly jumped out of his skin when he felt Erica tap him on the shoulder.
How did you get away? And why did the police just let me go?
You're funny. I was just coming over to tell you that you did a good job.
Well, thanks. I told you I would help you.
Very funny, but we're not acting anymore. You can lighten up on the personality there.
Wait. What are you talking about?
I'm talking about the movie we've been filming for the last few months!
Where have you been?
Movie? I'm utterly confused. Erica, what does any of this have to do with a movie?
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Watching Movies to Learn English 看電影學英文
看電影可以增進聽力, 發音, 增加英文字彙,
電影是一種情境, 可以學習在什麼時候用什麼字,
另外可以從演員的表情, 手勢等, 來猜測字的意思,
如果聽力還不夠好, 可以先依賴字幕,
等到英文進步許多, 可以拿掉字幕
Grammar Gym
What does any of this have to do with a movie?
have to do:
I have to do some work.
have to do with: relating or connecting to
- What does Egyptian cotton have to do with the American Civil War?
- The boy's behavior has to do with the kind of family environment that he's from.
Language Lab
stagger v.
to move or cause (someone) to move unsteadily from side to side
- The drunk man staggered toward his home but fell on the ground.
- Marci had to lean on the wall as she staggered up the stairs.
- The homeless guy staggered down the street in the cold wind.
scramble v.
to move or act quickly to do, find, or get something often before someone else does
- Alex scrambled out of bed when he realized he was late for work.
to move or climb over something quickly especially while also using your hands
- We scrambled to the top of the mountain to see the sunrise.
lighten up v. [phrasal verb]
to become more relaxed and informal : to stop being serious, worried, etc.
- Lighten up! It's just a game.
- Come on, lighten up! I was just kidding.
utterly adv.
complete and total
- The actor utterly captivated the audience's attention.
- Nathan is utterly devoted to his career.
utter adj.
- To my utter surprise, my son bought me a bouquet of flowers for my birthday.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20141003baa9168f1c501e9b8414a2e869f9f0974f0d8ecbb5c3a3cc686fe55c33dcd13d5e9.wma
Saturday, September 20, 2014
The Race for the Ridge (2)
They came to an abrupt stop as the taxi ran into the side of a police car. Before Leo could take a deep breath, his door was pulled open, and he was forced out by the sheriff. "You're under arrest," said the sheriff as he aimed his gun at Leo's heart. With his hands above his head, Leo was thrown to the ground. He could barely see Erica on the other side of the police car.
"Hey, where are you taking her?" cried Leo.
"That woman is a fugitive, and you have just been caught aiding a known criminal. I don't think you'll have to wait long to find out what's going to happen to her. You'll be joining her," the sheriff sneered.
"You're making a big mistake! She's not a criminal; she's working for you! Just hear what she has to say," Leo pleaded.
"That's enough out of you! If I hear one more word out of your mouth, I'll have you thrown in jail!" the sheriff threatened.
"You can't do that! I know the law. I have rights!" Leo protested.
"Not anymore," the sheriff laughed.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Jail vs. Prison (Jail 和 Prison的差別)
jail 看守所,
prison 監獄
prisoner 囚犯, 也可指被剝噱自由的人
我們每個人都是 prisoners of time
無法從過去走出來的人 prisoner of his past
趕盡殺絕 take no prisoners
Grammar Gym
You have just been caught aiding a known criminal.
= We have caught you aiding a known criminal.
= A strange dog has been seen wandering through this neighborhood.
- We found a cat digging through our garbage can.
= A cat was found digging through our garbage can.
Language Lab
abrupt adj.
sudden and unexpected:
- The CEO's abrupt resignation shocked the staff.
- Rita's happiness came to an abrupt end when she found out she had been laid off.
seeming rude and unfriendly, especially because you do not waste time in friendly conversation
- His abrupt comment irritated all the people present.
fugitive n.
someone who is trying to avoid being caught by the police
- The fugitive was caught near his parents' home.
- These fugitives escaped from the jail last night.
- The sheriff discovered the fugitives' hiding place.
plead v.
to ask for something that you want very much, in a sincere and emotional way [= beg]:
plead with somebody (to do something)
- After being caught, the thief pleaded with the victim for mercy.
to state in a court of law whether or not you are guilty of a crime
- The defendant pleaded guilty to his crime.
protest v.
to come together to publicly express disapproval or opposition to something
protest against/at/about
- People took to the streets to protest against the tax increase.
protest n.
something that you do to show publicly that you think that something is wrong and unfair, for example taking part in big public meetings, refusing to work, or refusing to buy a company's products
- He resigned in protest against the company's new policy.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140920baa0695705af5b55152cc5d4bbc6a5009e884b2b9fb7b205798b234b4f3627368c9.wma
"Hey, where are you taking her?" cried Leo.
"That woman is a fugitive, and you have just been caught aiding a known criminal. I don't think you'll have to wait long to find out what's going to happen to her. You'll be joining her," the sheriff sneered.
"You're making a big mistake! She's not a criminal; she's working for you! Just hear what she has to say," Leo pleaded.
"That's enough out of you! If I hear one more word out of your mouth, I'll have you thrown in jail!" the sheriff threatened.
"You can't do that! I know the law. I have rights!" Leo protested.
"Not anymore," the sheriff laughed.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Jail vs. Prison (Jail 和 Prison的差別)
jail 看守所,
prison 監獄
prisoner 囚犯, 也可指被剝噱自由的人
我們每個人都是 prisoners of time
無法從過去走出來的人 prisoner of his past
趕盡殺絕 take no prisoners
Grammar Gym
You have just been caught aiding a known criminal.
= We have caught you aiding a known criminal.
[Subject] has been [past participle verb 1] [verb 2-ing].
- We have seen a strange dog wandering through this neighborhood.= A strange dog has been seen wandering through this neighborhood.
- We found a cat digging through our garbage can.
= A cat was found digging through our garbage can.
Language Lab
abrupt adj.
sudden and unexpected:
- The CEO's abrupt resignation shocked the staff.
- Rita's happiness came to an abrupt end when she found out she had been laid off.
seeming rude and unfriendly, especially because you do not waste time in friendly conversation
- His abrupt comment irritated all the people present.
fugitive n.
someone who is trying to avoid being caught by the police
- The fugitive was caught near his parents' home.
- These fugitives escaped from the jail last night.
- The sheriff discovered the fugitives' hiding place.
plead v.
to ask for something that you want very much, in a sincere and emotional way [= beg]:
plead with somebody (to do something)
- After being caught, the thief pleaded with the victim for mercy.
to state in a court of law whether or not you are guilty of a crime
- The defendant pleaded guilty to his crime.
protest v.
to come together to publicly express disapproval or opposition to something
protest against/at/about
- People took to the streets to protest against the tax increase.
protest n.
something that you do to show publicly that you think that something is wrong and unfair, for example taking part in big public meetings, refusing to work, or refusing to buy a company's products
- He resigned in protest against the company's new policy.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140920baa0695705af5b55152cc5d4bbc6a5009e884b2b9fb7b205798b234b4f3627368c9.wma
Friday, September 19, 2014
The Race for the Ridge (1)
Do Leo and Erica make it or not?
As the taxi rumbled down the road, Leo became increasingly aware of his surroundings. It felt like time was slowing down, and the road seemed to stretch before his eyes. He repeatedly checked his rearview mirror to see how many police cars were still in pursuit. He didn't see as many as he got farther away.
Pressing the gas pedal harder, he hoped to squeeze a little more speed out of the engine. Freedom was just over the ridge - if only he could reach it in time. "Almost there," he kept repeating to himself. He could sense Erica's nervous energy as they got closer to the ridge.
Leo held his breath as they flew over the edge. Then he choked. Right in front of them was a police roadblock that stretched across the entire road. A spike strip was set up from one side of the road to the other with numerous police vehicles behind it.
"Brace yourself!" Leo yelled just before the tires hit the spike strip. The taxi started spinning out of control as the tires burst. Leo had to gather all his strength to keep the taxi from flipping over.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Farther vs. Further (Farther和 Further的差別)
這二個字都是比較遠的意思,
二個字的差別是 farther /ˈfɑɚðɚ/
指的是實際上空間上的距離,
而 further /ˈfɚðɚ/ 指的是抽象的距離,
- London is farther north than Boston. (實際可測量的距離)
- Nothing could be further from the truth. (離事實很遠)
口語上現在很多人都用further, 所以 farther 也比較少用了
Grammar Gym
As the taxi rumbled down the road, Leo became increasingly aware of his surroundings.
As + [situation], [subject] became increasingly [adjective].
- As the delay got longer and longer, the passengers in the waiting room became increasingly impatient.
- As her competitors improved their skills, Evelyn became increasingly nervous about the competition.
Language Lab
rumble v. [intransitive]
to make a low, heavy, continuous sound or series of sounds
- An old truck rumbled up the hill slowly.
- An airplane rumbled over us.
rumble n.
a series of long low sounds
- You can hear the rumble of the traffic from a distance.
rearview mirror n.
a mirror inside a car etc that lets the driver see the area behind the car
- I saw a dog passing behind my car from my rearview mirror.
side-veiw mirrors n.
a mirror attached to the side of a car
- Both of my side-view mirrors were broken in the accident.
numerous adj.
many:
- The customer service department received numerous complaint calls this morning.
- Numerous critics gave positive comments on the play.
flip over v.
past tense and past participle flipped, present participle flipping
to move something with a quick sudden movement so that it is in a different position:
- The chef flipped over the steak and cooked it for another tow minutes.
- The bike bumped into a rock and flipped over.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140919baae7608bbaaf5b76e99004bdc5f49ee3132754cb404969c8e7f8f5938eeb139adc.wma
As the taxi rumbled down the road, Leo became increasingly aware of his surroundings. It felt like time was slowing down, and the road seemed to stretch before his eyes. He repeatedly checked his rearview mirror to see how many police cars were still in pursuit. He didn't see as many as he got farther away.
Pressing the gas pedal harder, he hoped to squeeze a little more speed out of the engine. Freedom was just over the ridge - if only he could reach it in time. "Almost there," he kept repeating to himself. He could sense Erica's nervous energy as they got closer to the ridge.
Leo held his breath as they flew over the edge. Then he choked. Right in front of them was a police roadblock that stretched across the entire road. A spike strip was set up from one side of the road to the other with numerous police vehicles behind it.
"Brace yourself!" Leo yelled just before the tires hit the spike strip. The taxi started spinning out of control as the tires burst. Leo had to gather all his strength to keep the taxi from flipping over.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Farther vs. Further (Farther和 Further的差別)
這二個字都是比較遠的意思,
二個字的差別是 farther /ˈfɑɚðɚ/
指的是實際上空間上的距離,
而 further /ˈfɚðɚ/ 指的是抽象的距離,
- London is farther north than Boston. (實際可測量的距離)
- Nothing could be further from the truth. (離事實很遠)
口語上現在很多人都用further, 所以 farther 也比較少用了
Grammar Gym
As the taxi rumbled down the road, Leo became increasingly aware of his surroundings.
As + [situation], [subject] became increasingly [adjective].
- As the delay got longer and longer, the passengers in the waiting room became increasingly impatient.
- As her competitors improved their skills, Evelyn became increasingly nervous about the competition.
Language Lab
rumble v. [intransitive]
to make a low, heavy, continuous sound or series of sounds
- An old truck rumbled up the hill slowly.
- An airplane rumbled over us.
rumble n.
a series of long low sounds
- You can hear the rumble of the traffic from a distance.
rearview mirror n.
a mirror inside a car etc that lets the driver see the area behind the car
- I saw a dog passing behind my car from my rearview mirror.
side-veiw mirrors n.
a mirror attached to the side of a car
- Both of my side-view mirrors were broken in the accident.
numerous adj.
many:
- The customer service department received numerous complaint calls this morning.
- Numerous critics gave positive comments on the play.
flip over v.
past tense and past participle flipped, present participle flipping
to move something with a quick sudden movement so that it is in a different position:
- The chef flipped over the steak and cooked it for another tow minutes.
- The bike bumped into a rock and flipped over.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140919baae7608bbaaf5b76e99004bdc5f49ee3132754cb404969c8e7f8f5938eeb139adc.wma
Saturday, August 2, 2014
The Escape (2)
No one shot at us!
It doesn't matter.
I don't like guns.
I'll drop you off somewhere and you can find a new taxi.
You can't abandon me! You said we were in this together!
Suddenly, they heard the sound of a helicopter flying above them and sirens coming up behind. Erica pointed to a freeway exit. Jerking the steering wheel, Leo swerved across three lanes of traffic and off the freeway.
Where am I going?
There's less traffic on the outskirts of town.
We may not be able to hide, but we might be able to outrun them if you go a little faster.
A little faster?
I'm pushing the engine as hard as I can!
Maybe you would like to drive!
Stop complaining.
If we can just get over that ridge, we'll be outside the city limits and out of police jurisdiction.
Just a little faster!
I'm definitely going to lose my license.
You'll only lose your license if you stop long enough for them to take if away.
Now stop talking and focus on getting us out of here!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Highway Names 公路名稱大不同
highway 一般公路或高速公路
高速公路有各種不同的說法:
freeway 美國西岸使用
free from obstructions 無障礙(沒有紅燈)
turnpike 美國東岸使用, 收費公路
interstate 州與州間的洲際公路(南北向是單數, 東西向是雙數)
motorway 英國使用
Grammar Gym
We may not be able to hide, but we might be able to outrun them if you go a little faster.
We may not..., but we might ... if ....
- We may not be able to go watch a movie, but we might be able to get some ice cream if we finish our work early.
- We may not be able to win first place, but we might win second place if we hurry.
Language Lab
abandon v. 放棄, 抛棄, 遺棄
to leave someone, especially someone you are responsible for:
- A homeless man discovered a baby abandoned in the junkyard.
- When the ship's engine broke down, the captain ordered his crew to abandon the ship.
outskirt n. 市區, 郊區 (多為複數型使用)
the parts of a town or city that are furthest from the center
on the outskirts (of something)
- The factory is located on the outskirts of Houston.
- The concert is being held in a park on the outskirts of London.
siren n.
a piece of equipment that makes very loud warning sounds, used on police cars, fire engines etc:
- I heard police sirens in the distance.
ridge n. 山脊, 屋脊
1: a long area of high land, especially at the top of a mountain
2: the part at the top of a roof, where the two sides meet
- We drove along the ridge of the mountain and enjoyed the amazing view.
- The boy somehow got on the ridge of the roof and was trapped for hours before his parents found him.
license n. 執照, 牌照, 許可證;
an official document giving you permission to own or do something for a period of time
a driver's license 駕照
a license plat 牌照
a marriage license 結婚證書
license v. 批准, 許可
to give official permission for someone to do or produce something, or for an activity to take place
- Our company is licensed to produce this new medicine.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140802baa0bfb92d6775bd005dc378f0bdbaeade6f054321a466a199a6342cb9e087dfe2d.wma
It doesn't matter.
I don't like guns.
I'll drop you off somewhere and you can find a new taxi.
You can't abandon me! You said we were in this together!
Suddenly, they heard the sound of a helicopter flying above them and sirens coming up behind. Erica pointed to a freeway exit. Jerking the steering wheel, Leo swerved across three lanes of traffic and off the freeway.
Where am I going?
There's less traffic on the outskirts of town.
We may not be able to hide, but we might be able to outrun them if you go a little faster.
A little faster?
I'm pushing the engine as hard as I can!
Maybe you would like to drive!
Stop complaining.
If we can just get over that ridge, we'll be outside the city limits and out of police jurisdiction.
Just a little faster!
I'm definitely going to lose my license.
You'll only lose your license if you stop long enough for them to take if away.
Now stop talking and focus on getting us out of here!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Highway Names 公路名稱大不同
highway 一般公路或高速公路
高速公路有各種不同的說法:
freeway 美國西岸使用
free from obstructions 無障礙(沒有紅燈)
turnpike 美國東岸使用, 收費公路
interstate 州與州間的洲際公路(南北向是單數, 東西向是雙數)
motorway 英國使用
Grammar Gym
We may not be able to hide, but we might be able to outrun them if you go a little faster.
We may not..., but we might ... if ....
- We may not be able to go watch a movie, but we might be able to get some ice cream if we finish our work early.
- We may not be able to win first place, but we might win second place if we hurry.
Language Lab
abandon v. 放棄, 抛棄, 遺棄
to leave someone, especially someone you are responsible for:
- A homeless man discovered a baby abandoned in the junkyard.
- When the ship's engine broke down, the captain ordered his crew to abandon the ship.
outskirt n. 市區, 郊區 (多為複數型使用)
the parts of a town or city that are furthest from the center
on the outskirts (of something)
- The factory is located on the outskirts of Houston.
- The concert is being held in a park on the outskirts of London.
siren n.
a piece of equipment that makes very loud warning sounds, used on police cars, fire engines etc:
- I heard police sirens in the distance.
ridge n. 山脊, 屋脊
1: a long area of high land, especially at the top of a mountain
2: the part at the top of a roof, where the two sides meet
- We drove along the ridge of the mountain and enjoyed the amazing view.
- The boy somehow got on the ridge of the roof and was trapped for hours before his parents found him.
license n. 執照, 牌照, 許可證;
an official document giving you permission to own or do something for a period of time
a driver's license 駕照
a license plat 牌照
a marriage license 結婚證書
license v. 批准, 許可
to give official permission for someone to do or produce something, or for an activity to take place
- Our company is licensed to produce this new medicine.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140802baa0bfb92d6775bd005dc378f0bdbaeade6f054321a466a199a6342cb9e087dfe2d.wma
Friday, August 1, 2014
The Escape (1)
Caught by the police – or not?
懸疑輕小說：計程車司機4 被警察逮到——還是沒有？
As Erica and Leo looked up, they saw a policeman walking his beat. The policeman slowed down as he got a better look at the taxi in the alley. As recognition dawned on him, he raised his gun at the car. "Slowly get out the vehicle with your hands raised. Surrender quietly or I will open fire, " he called to the pair in the taxi. Staring at the policeman, both Erica and Leo froze, waiting for him to make a move.
Just as the officer grabbed his radio to call for backup, Leo quickly started the car. He then slammed his foot down on the gas pedal. The officer jumped out of the way just in time to see the taxi speed out of the alley and out toward the freeway.
Did you see that?
The cop tried to shoot us!
We could have been killed!
Just calm down.
He wasn't going to shoot us.
He has to say that so we know he means business.
Right now we have more urgent matters - like how we're going to get out of here.
No way!
When I said I would help, I was offering to get you where you needed to go.
You didn't say anything about cops shooting at us!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Floor Used as a Verb
floor n. 地板
floor v.
to surprise or shock someone so much that they do not know what to say or do:
- He was floored by the bad news.
to floor it American English informal
to make a car go as fast as possible:
- Steve likes to take his sports car out on the highway and just floor it.
將名詞動詞化叫做 verbing,
像是rain, snow, friend
Grammar Gym
As recognition dawned on him, he raised his gun at the car.
to dawned on [someone]: to be realized by someone
It dawned on [someone]
- When Howard went outside, it dawned on him that he was still wearing his pajamas.
- It didn't dawn on the teacher that his shirt was backwards until he stood in front of his students.
Language Lab
recognition n.
the act of knowing someone or something because you have known or learned about them in the past:
- My best friend in high school passed by me without any sign of recognition.
dawn on somebody phrasal verb
if a fact dawns on you, you realize it for the first time:
recognition dawn on somebody 某人認出來
- Andrew frowned, and then recognition dawned on him. And he realized he was talking to his ex-girlfriend's husband.
surrender v.
to say officially that you want to stop fighting or to stop avoiding the police, government etc because you realize that you cannot win:
- The robbers finally surrendered to the police after a long car chase.
to give up something or someone because you are forced to:
- The soldiers surrendered all their weapons to their enemy.
slam v. past tense and past participle slammed, present participle slamming
if a door, gate etc slams, or if someone slams it, it shuts with a loud noise [= bang]:
- The taxi driver slammed the brakes on when a boy suddenly ran in front of his car.
to hit or attack someone or something with a lot of force
- Sarah slammed the door shut in her boss' face.
mean business 當真
to be determined to do something:
- I meant business when I said I would reject your report if you turned it in late.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140801baa4bb446d03006d14408af4150b15d018f6203bfc669e5e4eb982f84557aadd51b.wma
懸疑輕小說：計程車司機4 被警察逮到——還是沒有？
As Erica and Leo looked up, they saw a policeman walking his beat. The policeman slowed down as he got a better look at the taxi in the alley. As recognition dawned on him, he raised his gun at the car. "Slowly get out the vehicle with your hands raised. Surrender quietly or I will open fire, " he called to the pair in the taxi. Staring at the policeman, both Erica and Leo froze, waiting for him to make a move.
Just as the officer grabbed his radio to call for backup, Leo quickly started the car. He then slammed his foot down on the gas pedal. The officer jumped out of the way just in time to see the taxi speed out of the alley and out toward the freeway.
Did you see that?
The cop tried to shoot us!
We could have been killed!
Just calm down.
He wasn't going to shoot us.
He has to say that so we know he means business.
Right now we have more urgent matters - like how we're going to get out of here.
No way!
When I said I would help, I was offering to get you where you needed to go.
You didn't say anything about cops shooting at us!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Floor Used as a Verb
floor n. 地板
floor v.
to surprise or shock someone so much that they do not know what to say or do:
- He was floored by the bad news.
to floor it American English informal
to make a car go as fast as possible:
- Steve likes to take his sports car out on the highway and just floor it.
將名詞動詞化叫做 verbing,
像是rain, snow, friend
Grammar Gym
As recognition dawned on him, he raised his gun at the car.
to dawned on [someone]: to be realized by someone
It dawned on [someone]
- When Howard went outside, it dawned on him that he was still wearing his pajamas.
- It didn't dawn on the teacher that his shirt was backwards until he stood in front of his students.
Language Lab
recognition n.
the act of knowing someone or something because you have known or learned about them in the past:
- My best friend in high school passed by me without any sign of recognition.
dawn on somebody phrasal verb
if a fact dawns on you, you realize it for the first time:
recognition dawn on somebody 某人認出來
- Andrew frowned, and then recognition dawned on him. And he realized he was talking to his ex-girlfriend's husband.
surrender v.
to say officially that you want to stop fighting or to stop avoiding the police, government etc because you realize that you cannot win:
- The robbers finally surrendered to the police after a long car chase.
to give up something or someone because you are forced to:
- The soldiers surrendered all their weapons to their enemy.
slam v. past tense and past participle slammed, present participle slamming
if a door, gate etc slams, or if someone slams it, it shuts with a loud noise [= bang]:
- The taxi driver slammed the brakes on when a boy suddenly ran in front of his car.
to hit or attack someone or something with a lot of force
- Sarah slammed the door shut in her boss' face.
mean business 當真
to be determined to do something:
- I meant business when I said I would reject your report if you turned it in late.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140801baa4bb446d03006d14408af4150b15d018f6203bfc669e5e4eb982f84557aadd51b.wma
Saturday, June 21, 2014
A Sticky Situation (2)
"Don't be afraid, I promise you that as long as you cooperate, you won't get hurt."
"Why are you doing this? And who are you?"
"Are you sure you really want to know? I don't think you'll want to involve yourself in this situation."
"Well, I'm already involved in this situation whether I want to be or not. Your kidnapping kind of made that decision for me."
"I suppose you're right about that. I'm Erica. I have worked for the Goliath National Bank Headquarters for three years. A year ago I was approached by a policeman who asked me to investigate the way they handle their business. They thought that my boss was stealing money from the company."
"I don't get it. What does this have to do with you kidnapping me?"
"Be patient and I'll tell you! I finally found proof that the police could use to arrest my boss. Before I could get the proof to them, however, my boss found out what we had planned. He framed me! Now the police think that I was using my cover with them as a way to steal money. I have to flee the country, or I'll be arrested."
"I thought things like that only happened in movies!"
"You do believe me, don't you?"
"Of course I believe you! And I'll help you in any way that I can."
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Some Biblical Allusions 聖經的典故
聖經中出現的字詞
the Garden of Eden 伊甸園, 任何一個美好的地方
Goliath 歌利雅, 巨人, 巨大的組織/公司
the Good Samaritan 好的撒瑪利亞人, 行善之人
Armageddon 啟示錄中末日, 指現今任何大的戰爭或災難
Grammar Gym
Your kidnapping kind of made that decision for me.
kind of: a little, in a small way, make words sound soft, not direct
- I'm feeling kind of hungry. (I'm feeling a little hungry.)
- Your kidnapping made that decision for me.
- Do you know you're kind of loud? Can you please lower your voice?
- You're kind of late, you know that?
Language Lab
cooperate v. 合作, 和某人合作(+ with)
to work with someone else to achieve something that you both want
- We decided to cooperate with a German company to get the bid.
cooperation n. 合作
when you work with someone to achieve something that you both want
- The cooperation between the two firms brought a lot of benefits to both.
involve v. 牽涉, 包含
if an activity or situation involves something, that thing is part of it or a result of it:
- This project involved a large sum of money and many teams.
- This couple always involves both of their families in their quarrels.
quarrel n.
an angry argument or disagreement
frame v. 污賴, 陷害
to deliberately make someone seem guilty of a crime when they are not guilty, by lying to the police or in a court of law
- The suspect claimed that he was framed by the real thief.
- The con man manufactured false evidence to frame this innocent guy.
flee v. 逃走, 潛逃 (past tense and past participle fled, 現在分詞為fleeing)
to leave somewhere very quickly, in order to escape from danger:
- The robber fled to South America and disappeared.
fled the country 潛逃出境
- The police have the evidence to prove that the suspect has already fled the country.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140621baa2cbd492393468d55322d82f76cc8efd139770c5160079b1e500ca061de177fec.wma
"Why are you doing this? And who are you?"
"Are you sure you really want to know? I don't think you'll want to involve yourself in this situation."
"Well, I'm already involved in this situation whether I want to be or not. Your kidnapping kind of made that decision for me."
"I suppose you're right about that. I'm Erica. I have worked for the Goliath National Bank Headquarters for three years. A year ago I was approached by a policeman who asked me to investigate the way they handle their business. They thought that my boss was stealing money from the company."
"I don't get it. What does this have to do with you kidnapping me?"
"Be patient and I'll tell you! I finally found proof that the police could use to arrest my boss. Before I could get the proof to them, however, my boss found out what we had planned. He framed me! Now the police think that I was using my cover with them as a way to steal money. I have to flee the country, or I'll be arrested."
"I thought things like that only happened in movies!"
"You do believe me, don't you?"
"Of course I believe you! And I'll help you in any way that I can."
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Some Biblical Allusions 聖經的典故
聖經中出現的字詞
the Garden of Eden 伊甸園, 任何一個美好的地方
Goliath 歌利雅, 巨人, 巨大的組織/公司
the Good Samaritan 好的撒瑪利亞人, 行善之人
Armageddon 啟示錄中末日, 指現今任何大的戰爭或災難
Grammar Gym
Your kidnapping kind of made that decision for me.
kind of: a little, in a small way, make words sound soft, not direct
- I'm feeling kind of hungry. (I'm feeling a little hungry.)
- Your kidnapping made that decision for me.
- Do you know you're kind of loud? Can you please lower your voice?
- You're kind of late, you know that?
Language Lab
cooperate v. 合作, 和某人合作(+ with)
to work with someone else to achieve something that you both want
- We decided to cooperate with a German company to get the bid.
cooperation n. 合作
when you work with someone to achieve something that you both want
- The cooperation between the two firms brought a lot of benefits to both.
involve v. 牽涉, 包含
if an activity or situation involves something, that thing is part of it or a result of it:
- This project involved a large sum of money and many teams.
- This couple always involves both of their families in their quarrels.
quarrel n.
an angry argument or disagreement
frame v. 污賴, 陷害
to deliberately make someone seem guilty of a crime when they are not guilty, by lying to the police or in a court of law
- The suspect claimed that he was framed by the real thief.
- The con man manufactured false evidence to frame this innocent guy.
flee v. 逃走, 潛逃 (past tense and past participle fled, 現在分詞為fleeing)
to leave somewhere very quickly, in order to escape from danger:
- The robber fled to South America and disappeared.
fled the country 潛逃出境
- The police have the evidence to prove that the suspect has already fled the country.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140621baa2cbd492393468d55322d82f76cc8efd139770c5160079b1e500ca061de177fec.wma
Friday, June 20, 2014
A Sticky Situation (1)
What did this stranger do?
An hour passed, and Leo grew more and more nervous. The young woman next to him stayed quiet but alert, her eyes darting back and forth as they drove. He glanced at the sign that asked passengers to be courteous to the driver and smiled to himself. Things could be much worse, but overall, this whole situations was less than ideal. Not that she had been rude, but courtesy was definitely the last thing on his passenger's mind.
He wondered what her story was and why she was in his taxi forcing him to drive her north. The way she handled the gun made him think she was too reluctant to be a hardened criminal. What could be the motive behind this kidnapping? Even though she had told him to be quiet, curiosity was starting to get better of Leo. He cleared his throat and nervously glanced at her. But before he could break the silence, she spoke first.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is a Story?
Story 的多重定義:
story可指故事,也可指編織出的謊言,
像是老師問為何沒有教作業,
如果回答作業被狗吃了, 那這就是一個story,
story也可以指事情背後的真像,
如果有一個人去搶銀行, 那背後一定有一件事是讓他要去做這件事,
end of story 指故事結束了, 不想做任何解釋了
Grammar Gym
Not that she had been rude, but courtesy was definitely the last thing on his passenger's mind.
Not that..., but....
- Not that you have to buy your girlfriend expensive gifts and take her to a fancy restaurant, but showing up at her house with nothing planned is not a smart idea.
- Not that you needed to give a long speech at the dinner party, but mumbling a few words without even thanking your host was rather impolite.
Language Lab
sticky adj. 黏黏的，忌手的、令人為難的
made of or covered with a substance that sticks to surfaces
a sticky situation, question, or problem is difficult or dangerous: 陷入膠著的狀態
- The development of the new product is at a sticky stage.
- There were a few sticky moments during the trial, but in the end, we still won the case.
courteous adj. 禮貌的，客氣的
polite and showing respect for other people
- Even though Josh is successful now, he's still friendly and courteous to everyone.
courtesy n. 禮貌
polite behaviour and respect for other people [= politeness; ≠ discourtesy]:
- The clerks in this shop always treat their customers with courtesy.
harden v. 使硬化 hard adj. 堅硬的
to become firm or stiff, or to make something firm or stiff
- The mixture will harden in a few hours.
if your attitude hardens, or if something hardens it, you become more strict and determined and less sympathetic 變的麻木不仁或立場變堅固
- The buyer's attitude suddenly hardened during the negotiations.
curiosity n. 好奇心
the desire to know about something
- I gave into curiously and opened the gift.
- Children's curiosity always motivates them to learn.
curious adj.
wanting to know about something
- People are curious about the private lives of celebrities.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140620baa0fdfb9b2625e52b502b114a7f2202cf0266cb36387a0546cf25eb0666473cef4.wma
An hour passed, and Leo grew more and more nervous. The young woman next to him stayed quiet but alert, her eyes darting back and forth as they drove. He glanced at the sign that asked passengers to be courteous to the driver and smiled to himself. Things could be much worse, but overall, this whole situations was less than ideal. Not that she had been rude, but courtesy was definitely the last thing on his passenger's mind.
He wondered what her story was and why she was in his taxi forcing him to drive her north. The way she handled the gun made him think she was too reluctant to be a hardened criminal. What could be the motive behind this kidnapping? Even though she had told him to be quiet, curiosity was starting to get better of Leo. He cleared his throat and nervously glanced at her. But before he could break the silence, she spoke first.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: What Is a Story?
Story 的多重定義:
story可指故事,也可指編織出的謊言,
像是老師問為何沒有教作業,
如果回答作業被狗吃了, 那這就是一個story,
story也可以指事情背後的真像,
如果有一個人去搶銀行, 那背後一定有一件事是讓他要去做這件事,
end of story 指故事結束了, 不想做任何解釋了
Grammar Gym
Not that she had been rude, but courtesy was definitely the last thing on his passenger's mind.
Not that..., but....
- Not that you have to buy your girlfriend expensive gifts and take her to a fancy restaurant, but showing up at her house with nothing planned is not a smart idea.
- Not that you needed to give a long speech at the dinner party, but mumbling a few words without even thanking your host was rather impolite.
Language Lab
sticky adj. 黏黏的，忌手的、令人為難的
made of or covered with a substance that sticks to surfaces
a sticky situation, question, or problem is difficult or dangerous: 陷入膠著的狀態
- The development of the new product is at a sticky stage.
- There were a few sticky moments during the trial, but in the end, we still won the case.
courteous adj. 禮貌的，客氣的
polite and showing respect for other people
- Even though Josh is successful now, he's still friendly and courteous to everyone.
courtesy n. 禮貌
polite behaviour and respect for other people [= politeness; ≠ discourtesy]:
- The clerks in this shop always treat their customers with courtesy.
harden v. 使硬化 hard adj. 堅硬的
to become firm or stiff, or to make something firm or stiff
- The mixture will harden in a few hours.
if your attitude hardens, or if something hardens it, you become more strict and determined and less sympathetic 變的麻木不仁或立場變堅固
- The buyer's attitude suddenly hardened during the negotiations.
curiosity n. 好奇心
the desire to know about something
- I gave into curiously and opened the gift.
- Children's curiosity always motivates them to learn.
curious adj.
wanting to know about something
- People are curious about the private lives of celebrities.
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140620baa0fdfb9b2625e52b502b114a7f2202cf0266cb36387a0546cf25eb0666473cef4.wma
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Leo, the Taxi Driver (2)
What do you think you're doing?!
Don't ask questions.
Just pull away from the curb and out into traffic, and no one will get hurt.
All right.
So where are we going?
I thought I told you not to ask me any questions!
For now, just keep driving straight until I tell you otherwise.
OK.
You're taking this all pretty well.
See that movie theater on the corner there?
Well, I want you to make a right there and drive this little taxi through that residential area to the highway.
Then you're going to drive me north and right out of the state.
Which road should I take?
That street will lead me to both of the freeways that run north out of California.
Why don't you just choose whichever roads will get me out of the state the fastest.
OK. Look. I have a family that lives here in San Francisco.
They'll be worried about me if they haven't heard anything for a few hours.
Do you mind if I just let them know that I'll be a while?
No, you may not. And stop asking me questions!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Can a Car Be Pulled?
pull 開車
- pull up to the house 開到房子前面
- He pulled the car into the driveway.
- He pulled the car off the road.
- He pulled the car out of the parking lot.
- I got pulled over by the police today.
- Pull away from the curb and out into traffic.
Grammar Gym
Do you mind if I just let them know that I'll be a while?
be a while: to take a long time
- Why don't you guys go first? I'm still working, and it will be a while.
- Since it will be a while before the next bus comes, why don't you go get a snack?
Language Lab
otherwise adv.
except for what has just been mentioned
- Sarah has always believed that her husband was innocent and has never thought otherwise.
used when saying what would have happened or might have happened if something else had not happened:
- You'd better change your attitude. Otherwise, you might get fired.
residential adj.
a residential part of a town consists of private houses, with no offices or factories
- Mark's new house is located in a residential area of Chicago.
- This part of the city is undergoing residential zoning. No industry will be allowed here.
lead v.
to take someone somewhere by going in front of them while they follow, or by pulling them gently
- I opened the door that led to the basement.
- All roads in the amusement park lead to the castle in the center.
freeway n.
a very wide road in the US, built for fast travel [↪ motorway, expressway, highway]:
- The freeway system in Los Angeles is quite complicated.
- There's an accident on northbound Freeway 101.
highway 通常有紅綠燈
Don't ask questions.
Just pull away from the curb and out into traffic, and no one will get hurt.
All right.
So where are we going?
I thought I told you not to ask me any questions!
For now, just keep driving straight until I tell you otherwise.
OK.
You're taking this all pretty well.
See that movie theater on the corner there?
Well, I want you to make a right there and drive this little taxi through that residential area to the highway.
Then you're going to drive me north and right out of the state.
Which road should I take?
That street will lead me to both of the freeways that run north out of California.
Why don't you just choose whichever roads will get me out of the state the fastest.
OK. Look. I have a family that lives here in San Francisco.
They'll be worried about me if they haven't heard anything for a few hours.
Do you mind if I just let them know that I'll be a while?
No, you may not. And stop asking me questions!
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Can a Car Be Pulled?
pull 開車
- pull up to the house 開到房子前面
- He pulled the car into the driveway.
- He pulled the car off the road.
- He pulled the car out of the parking lot.
- I got pulled over by the police today.
- Pull away from the curb and out into traffic.
Grammar Gym
Do you mind if I just let them know that I'll be a while?
be a while: to take a long time
- Why don't you guys go first? I'm still working, and it will be a while.
- Since it will be a while before the next bus comes, why don't you go get a snack?
Language Lab
otherwise adv.
except for what has just been mentioned
- Sarah has always believed that her husband was innocent and has never thought otherwise.
used when saying what would have happened or might have happened if something else had not happened:
- You'd better change your attitude. Otherwise, you might get fired.
residential adj.
a residential part of a town consists of private houses, with no offices or factories
- Mark's new house is located in a residential area of Chicago.
- This part of the city is undergoing residential zoning. No industry will be allowed here.
lead v.
to take someone somewhere by going in front of them while they follow, or by pulling them gently
- I opened the door that led to the basement.
- All roads in the amusement park lead to the castle in the center.
freeway n.
a very wide road in the US, built for fast travel [↪ motorway, expressway, highway]:
- The freeway system in Los Angeles is quite complicated.
- There's an accident on northbound Freeway 101.
highway 通常有紅綠燈
Monday, May 12, 2014
Leo, the Taxi Driver (1)
Where is this stranger going？
Leo was tired of being a taxi driver. For years he had driven passengers to the most exciting places in San Francisco, only to be left on the outside looking in. He wanted to be part of the action, but nothing ever happened to him.
Today was like any other day：driving people to fancy stores, expensive restaurants and important office buildings.
"I have to break out of this routine," he thought as he pulled up to a stop light. But how could he? He was a taxi driver, and nothing every happened to taxi drivers. Maybe it was time for a career change, or even retirement. That would free up some time for fun activities around the city.
Feeling weary, Leo was about to turn off his sign when a flurry of activity caught his eye. A frantic-locking young woman pounded down the sidewalk, dodging people as she ran. Suddenly she darted over to his taxi, threw open the door and dove inside. Before Leo could even make an objection to her actions, however, he felt something cold poke into his side. "Drive!" she snarled at him. He looked down and saw a gun in her hand, aimed straight at him.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Sidewalk vs. Pavement
sidewalk 人行道 (美國)
pavement 人行道 (英國), 對美國人來說是馬路的路面
tarmac 在英國也可指人行道, 不過在美國指的是飛機跑道的路面
Grammar Gym
- Feeling weary, Leo was about to turn off his sign when a flurry of activity caught his eye.
Feeling..., [subject] was about to ... when [something happened].
- Feeling hungry, Mark was about to go to the kitchen when the telephone rang.
- Feeling sleepy, Lena was about to go to bed when she suddenly smelled smoke.
Language Lab
on the outside looking in 旁觀者
- Helen is too young for the ball, so she complained that she could only be on the outside looking in.
break out of something [phrasal verb]
to take (something) from the place where it is stored so that it can be used
- Fiona has a strong desire to break out of her boring daily routine.
break out of somewhere [phrasal verb] 逃出某個地方
to escape from a prison, jail, etc.
- The fugitives broke out of prison and hid in the mountains.
poke v.
to push your finger or something thin or pointed into or at someone or something
- Sandy poked my arm to get my attention.
to stick out so that a part can be seen
- My little sister poked her head into my room to see what I was doing.
snarl v. [no object]
/ˈsnɑrəl/
to say something in an angry or annoyed way — often + at
- The drunk man snarled at the security guard, "Leave me alone!"
- The dog snarled at the thief who was trying to get into the house.
Leo was tired of being a taxi driver. For years he had driven passengers to the most exciting places in San Francisco, only to be left on the outside looking in. He wanted to be part of the action, but nothing ever happened to him.
Today was like any other day：driving people to fancy stores, expensive restaurants and important office buildings.
"I have to break out of this routine," he thought as he pulled up to a stop light. But how could he? He was a taxi driver, and nothing every happened to taxi drivers. Maybe it was time for a career change, or even retirement. That would free up some time for fun activities around the city.
Feeling weary, Leo was about to turn off his sign when a flurry of activity caught his eye. A frantic-locking young woman pounded down the sidewalk, dodging people as she ran. Suddenly she darted over to his taxi, threw open the door and dove inside. Before Leo could even make an objection to her actions, however, he felt something cold poke into his side. "Drive!" she snarled at him. He looked down and saw a gun in her hand, aimed straight at him.
Info Cloud
Teaching Topic: Sidewalk vs. Pavement
sidewalk 人行道 (美國)
pavement 人行道 (英國), 對美國人來說是馬路的路面
tarmac 在英國也可指人行道, 不過在美國指的是飛機跑道的路面
Grammar Gym
- Feeling weary, Leo was about to turn off his sign when a flurry of activity caught his eye.
Feeling..., [subject] was about to ... when [something happened].
- Feeling hungry, Mark was about to go to the kitchen when the telephone rang.
- Feeling sleepy, Lena was about to go to bed when she suddenly smelled smoke.
Language Lab
on the outside looking in 旁觀者
- Helen is too young for the ball, so she complained that she could only be on the outside looking in.
break out of something [phrasal verb]
to take (something) from the place where it is stored so that it can be used
- Fiona has a strong desire to break out of her boring daily routine.
break out of somewhere [phrasal verb] 逃出某個地方
to escape from a prison, jail, etc.
- The fugitives broke out of prison and hid in the mountains.
poke v.
to push your finger or something thin or pointed into or at someone or something
- Sandy poked my arm to get my attention.
to stick out so that a part can be seen
- My little sister poked her head into my room to see what I was doing.
snarl v. [no object]
/ˈsnɑrəl/
to say something in an angry or annoyed way — often + at
- The drunk man snarled at the security guard, "Leave me alone!"
- The dog snarled at the thief who was trying to get into the house.
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