Talking on the phone is sometimes difficult because you can talk face-to-face with the other person, but you can speak better on the phone as you study common telephone expressions.

SAMPLE SENTENCES:

• Hello. Is Cindy there?
  >> Just a minute please.
• May I leave a message for Mike?
  >> Sure. Go ahead.

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If you need shoes, a book, or even a new stereo, you probably can find many of these things at a shopping mall near you. Try this listening activity to improve your understanding of this topic.

SAMPLE SENTENCES:

• Where did you buy that shirt?
  >> I bought it at a clothing store downtown.
• Do you know where I can find some running shoes?
  >> There’s a shoe store at the mall that sells them.

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Most people enjoy going to restaurants for a bite (=a small amount of something) to eat; however, if you don’t understand the server or the menu, you might only be able to order a glass of water.

SAMPLE SENTENCES:

• Hi. May I take your order?
  >> Yes. I’d like a salad.
• What do you recommend?
  >> I recommend the chicken fried steak.
• Could I get the check, please?
  >> Yes. I’ll be right back.

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Outside of school and work, many people enjoy spending their free time on their hobbies or other recreation activities. Hobbies can provide ways to develop our talents, relieve stress, and even get exercise.

SAMPLE SENTENCES:

• What do you do in your free time?
  >> I like to go jogging.
• Do you have any hobbies?
  >> I like playing tennis and watching old movies.

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People can get to know each other better if they can talk about their families, jobs, hometowns, and even their hobbies. Think of three questions (and possible answers) you might ask someone about his or her family before you do the listening activity (for example, “How many sisters do you have?”).

SAMPLE SENTENCES:

• How’s your family?
  >>> They’re fine.
• What does your father do?
  >>> He’s a teacher.

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