When you the hear the words “Video Rental Shop,” what images come to your mind (i.e., the kind of store, the types of goods being rented, the policies of the store, prices, etc.)?

HELPFUL TIP: Video rental stores are not the only place where you can find videos and DVDs. Now, there are more and more online video rental Websites that offer similar services.

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Taking out a loan is often the only way people can afford major investments or purchases such as a college education or home. However, what advantages are there to refinancing a mortage or student loan at a lower interest rate? Use the Internet to learn more about this.

HELPFUL TIP: You often can save a lot of money in interest payments if you pay off your home loan early instead of waiting 20-30 years to repay it.

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There are many things to consider when working as a babysitter or finding one to watch your kids. One of the considerations for the babysitter is financial arrangements for compensation? What is fair pay for watching children? Would you charge differently for the number of children or for different circumstances? Should you charge extra when being asked to do other tasks such as cleaning, cooking, or staying past midnight?

HELPFUL TIP: All babysitters should take a basic first-aid course so they can be better prepared in case of emergencies. Having such training in areas such as cuts, broken bones, and drowning can make you feel more confident, too.

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What are some common personal or health problems we encounter in our lives? What words of advice would you give a person with these problems?

HELPFUL TIP: If you are having medical problems, you can also use the Internet to search for information on your condition; however, be sure to consult with a physician for clear diagnosis of your circumstances.

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What movie rating systems or guidelines are used in different countries to determine to appropriateness for different audiences? In the United States, the classifications of “G,” “PG,” “PG-13,” “R,” and “NR-17″ (See Motion Picture Association of America for more details). What rating systems are used to rank the quality of movies?

HELPFUL TIP: Before watching a movie, you might want to consider reading some reviews to see if there is objectionable material in it. This is particularly important if you are planning to watch it with younger children.

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Which factor is most crucial when looking for a new job? Rank the following points in terms of importance and then discuss your reasons:

opportunities for promotion or advancement, working hours, vacation days, pension plan, interest level, salary, benefits such as health and life insurance, sick or maternity leave

HELPFUL TIP: If you really want to impress interviewers, be prepared to ask your own questions about the company, its policies, and employee satisfaction. In this way, the company will see that you are a serious candidate for the position. Continue reading this post…

Baseball is a popular sport in many countries. Before listening to this sports broadcast, think of common baseball vocabulary and sample sentences that might come up in such a program (e.g., run as in “The team needs four runs to tie the game.”)

HELPFUL TIP: Baseball is an American pastime. Learning a little about the sport and some of the players might help you strike up conversations with people interested in the sport.

Listen to the announcement by pressing the “Play Audio” button, and answer the questions. Press the “Final Score” button to check your quiz.

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