Alex and Brett Harris are challenging teens to choose leadership over laziness
by Beth Bowyer Wei
Twin brothers Alex and Brett Harris are calling teenagers around the globe to rebel. And the brothers’ message is getting out – they’re among the most widely read young writers on the web. Sounds dangerous, right?
Wrong. Instead of asking teens to rebel against authority, the 20-year-old Harris twins are challenging teens to rebel against low expectations. They believe today’s society is teaching teens to be irresponsible. So the twins are encouraging young people to take a different path – the difficult one. It’s a path that requires more work but also promises more rewards. The message is simple but powerful: Be ambitious, become a leader, change the world
It's a path that requires more work but also promises more rewards The message is simple but powerful: Be ambitious, become a leader, change the world.
Redefining the teenage years
To get their message out, the twins from Oregon started a blog that has become a worldwide movement-The Rebelution. The word "rebelution" is a combination of the words rebellion and revolution. Teens are encouraged to rebel against the saying. "Be young, have fun!" and instead to follow the motto," Do hard things," The movement signals the beginning of a real revolution.
The three Cs of the Rebelution
As the twins' ideas developed into The Rebelution, three main teaching points emerged: character, competence and collaboration. Last year, they put these ideas and more in their book. Do Hard Things it it, they emphasize getting out of one's comfort zone and stretching oneself in all areas. There are endless examples, from aiming to do 100 push-ups to starting a club that helps needy kids. They believe that working on big tasks with others leads to personal growth. Do Hard Things emphasizes that trying and failing is better than not trying at all. Because the goal is growth, failure is acceptable.
Do Hard Things Tour
Alex and Brett will soon start their second year of university in Virginia. But this summer, just like the last two, the boys have taken their message on the road. By hosting Do Hard Things conferences around the U.S., they're challenging thousands of teens. face-to-face. By taking the challenge, young people are redefining the teenage years And, they're changing the world.
Did you know:
When 16-year-old Zach Hunter was in seventh grade. he started a organization called "Loose Change to Loosen Chains." The group help young people start school clubs to fight slavery and to educate consumers about products made with slave labor.
Pennsylvania high schooler Jaime Coleman started a shoe-collecting project called "walk Humbly" in 2007. Through it, she collected 4,200 pairs of shoes for people in Karogoto, Kenya.
Grammar:
But this summer, just like the last two, the boys have taken their message on the road.
on the road (idiom)-here not the top of the road, is referring to traveling.
The band will be on the road for three months doing concerts in different cities.
The drama team will be taking the show on the road to different schools in the state.
rebel (v)-dis obey, doing thing against what has being told or ask to do 动词重音在后面。反抗,不遵守。 rebel (n)-名词重音在前面，反对者 rebel someone or something use "against"
Bobby rebels against his parents by doing everything they tell him not to do.
*Tom rebelled against his parents' plans for him to go to a private school.
authority (n)- 权威，权柄，职权。(1)have control over people in situation.
(2) police officer, teacher.当权者，官方。
In the classroom, the teacher is the authority.
*The students need to have respect for teachers' authority.
*She doesn't have the authority to hire or fire any employees.
*The local education authority decided to close the school.
ambitious (adj)-ambition (n), high goal willing to facing the challenge.
Todd has an ambitious plan. He wants to climb the ten highest mountains in Asia in one month.
revolution (n)-革命，剧烈的变革。
The Industrial Revolution changed the way people work. Many people moved from farm work to factory jobs.
*The oppression from the government eventually lead to revolution.政府打压，导致革命
*The invention of the Internet caused a revolution in communication.网路的发明，沟通方式的革新。
irresponsible-not responsible
motto-is a sentence or a saying that try to teach a central idea to the members. "friend for life" "be kind to anyone" etc.座右铭
emerge (v)-出现，显露出来，浮现出来。脱颖而出。
As the police investigated the crime, more and more details slowly emerged.
*More and more problems emerged as the economy sunk into recession.
*The submarine emerged from the water.
*The singer emerged on the well-known TV talent show.
comfort zone (n)-zone-area.
Rob is fairly shy, so he was out of his comfort zone when he gave that speech.
needy (adj)-Our church collects clothes and canned foods to give to needy families.
collaboration-合作. working together, act of work together.
*The two departments worked in close collaboration on the high-profile case. 受重视的案件
*The building is the result of the collaboration of two of the nation's top architects. 国内最。
*The two directors collaborated and created a successful film.
conference-与meeting 同，是时间比较长，较正式的集会。
*The association held a conference on the usage of educational computer software.协会
character-roll play. or have a quality to doing well.
competence-ability can complete a task well.
Chat Room
Be ambitious, become a leader, change the world.
be ambitious, become a leader and change the world.
three or four items listed but each one separated.例举项目时，通常在最后的一个前加and。如省略and，把项目平等化，表示同等重要，并且表示还有不断延续下去的可能性。
Milk, juice and bread.
of the people, by the people, for the people.
lettuce, tomato, orion, ketchup, mustard.
amazed and thrilled and exhausted and scared. 全部加and把速度放慢,而每个项目都有同等地位,同样重要。
a flat tire or a traffic jam or a bad storm.
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a sophomore (v), (n), (adj)-second year of college or high school.
a sophomore attorney/a sophomore on Wall Street （甚么的第二年）．
a sophomore in the NBA
sophomore album,（第二张唱片） a director's sophomore effort.（导演的第二部戏）
freshman大学一年级，九年级（美国高中有4年）, sophomore大二（高中二，10年纪）, junior 大三（十一年级）, senior毕业生，大四（高三，十二年级）.
sophomoric -二年级学生的，自大而幼稚的，自命不凡的
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
The Netbook Revolution
迷你筆記型電腦革命
How the Eee PC has redefined mobile computing 这类迷你电脑改变了人们使用膝上型电脑的方式 by Vance Fry
Way back in 2007, Taipei-based ASUSTeK Computer introduced the Eee PC, a cheap, basic laptop computer about the size of a hardcover book. Originally designed to be both affordable and portable, the Eee PC handled simple tasks such as writing, web surfing and e-mail.
At the time, most laptops were scaled-down versions of desktop computers, and critics complained about Eee’s lack of power and features. In spite of the naysayers, Asus sold more than 300,000 Eee PCs in the first few months. Other companies rushed to follow, and now nearly every major PC manufacturer has jumped into the still growing netbook market.
Through it all, the Eee PC has continued to evolve and improve. Newer versions include an Eee PC tablet that allows users to navigate by means of a touch screen. Also out is the Eee PC Keyboard, a computer in a keyboard that connects to any LCD monitor or big-screen TV. In many ways, the Eee PC caught the PC industry off guard. The product does many of the things people use computers for, at a much cheaper price. Though there will always be a market for "full" computers, the Eee PC taught the PC industry a valuable lesson: Sometimes the basics are all we need.
Grammar:
Trough it all, the Eee PC has continued to evolve and improve.
through it all ="from the beginning until now or until the end" or "through everything"
Even though Sam's job at the grocery store was a tough one, through it all, he learned a lot about teamwork.
Even though the research was hard, through it all, the scientist has never thought of giving up.
portable (adj)-you can take it any where you go, carry (take) it with you.
I always take my portable radio to the beach with me.
jump into (idiom)-move in quickly, get in quick.
Harry jumped into a business deal without checking it out carefully and ended up losing a lot of money.
navigate (v)-controlling the moving toward a place. 驾驶，导航，航行。
I had trouble learning to navigate between the personal and business settings on my cell phone.
*The modern equipment can navigate the ship automatically.
*This new software can help you navigate the Internet faster.网路的浏览速度更快。
catch off guard (idiom)-让对方很惊讶或措手不及。 catch (caught)-抓, off guard-没有防备。
The fashion industry was caught off guard by the new, young designer.
*The district attorney's question really caught the defendant off guard.检查官的问题让被告措手不及
naysayer-someone always has negative response or idea would says. nay=no
Regardless what the naysayer said, Tim decided to go for the new project.
*Chuck ignored the naysayers and finally succeeded. 忽视，不去理会。
way back-a long period of time ago. here says "way back" only about 2 years is refereed to the computer field, within a years can have a lot of changes.
affordable-everyone has enough money able to buy it.
tasks-作业。
scaled-down-make it simpler.
Chat Room
hardcover book-hard bound. 精装本的书，硬皮书。
paperback-平装本，纸皮书。较便宜。
paper covering of the hardcover book is "jacket" ,比书多出一点折叠通常是在封面背后，有blurb (简介），封底背后有作者的简介，折叠在封面的上面是书的评论。
How the Eee PC has redefined mobile computing 这类迷你电脑改变了人们使用膝上型电脑的方式 by Vance Fry
Way back in 2007, Taipei-based ASUSTeK Computer introduced the Eee PC, a cheap, basic laptop computer about the size of a hardcover book. Originally designed to be both affordable and portable, the Eee PC handled simple tasks such as writing, web surfing and e-mail.
At the time, most laptops were scaled-down versions of desktop computers, and critics complained about Eee’s lack of power and features. In spite of the naysayers, Asus sold more than 300,000 Eee PCs in the first few months. Other companies rushed to follow, and now nearly every major PC manufacturer has jumped into the still growing netbook market.
Through it all, the Eee PC has continued to evolve and improve. Newer versions include an Eee PC tablet that allows users to navigate by means of a touch screen. Also out is the Eee PC Keyboard, a computer in a keyboard that connects to any LCD monitor or big-screen TV. In many ways, the Eee PC caught the PC industry off guard. The product does many of the things people use computers for, at a much cheaper price. Though there will always be a market for "full" computers, the Eee PC taught the PC industry a valuable lesson: Sometimes the basics are all we need.
Grammar:
Trough it all, the Eee PC has continued to evolve and improve.
through it all ="from the beginning until now or until the end" or "through everything"
Even though Sam's job at the grocery store was a tough one, through it all, he learned a lot about teamwork.
Even though the research was hard, through it all, the scientist has never thought of giving up.
portable (adj)-you can take it any where you go, carry (take) it with you.
I always take my portable radio to the beach with me.
jump into (idiom)-move in quickly, get in quick.
Harry jumped into a business deal without checking it out carefully and ended up losing a lot of money.
navigate (v)-controlling the moving toward a place. 驾驶，导航，航行。
I had trouble learning to navigate between the personal and business settings on my cell phone.
*The modern equipment can navigate the ship automatically.
*This new software can help you navigate the Internet faster.网路的浏览速度更快。
catch off guard (idiom)-让对方很惊讶或措手不及。 catch (caught)-抓, off guard-没有防备。
The fashion industry was caught off guard by the new, young designer.
*The district attorney's question really caught the defendant off guard.检查官的问题让被告措手不及
naysayer-someone always has negative response or idea would says. nay=no
Regardless what the naysayer said, Tim decided to go for the new project.
*Chuck ignored the naysayers and finally succeeded. 忽视，不去理会。
way back-a long period of time ago. here says "way back" only about 2 years is refereed to the computer field, within a years can have a lot of changes.
affordable-everyone has enough money able to buy it.
tasks-作业。
scaled-down-make it simpler.
Chat Room
hardcover book-hard bound. 精装本的书，硬皮书。
paperback-平装本，纸皮书。较便宜。
paper covering of the hardcover book is "jacket" ,比书多出一点折叠通常是在封面背后，有blurb (简介），封底背后有作者的简介，折叠在封面的上面是书的评论。
Thursday, August 27, 2009
HOW GOLF GREENS WORK
追根究底談高爾夫果嶺
A lot of planning and care goes into the grass on a golf course
栽培高爾夫球場的草皮需要完善的計畫和呵護
There's more to a golf green than what appears on the surface -lesson from studio classroom
Let's imagine that you are standing on a beautiful golf green. The sun is shining, the sky is a bright blue, the birds are chirping in the nearby trees. It is a perfect day.
Now you look down at your feet. The grass is absolutely perfect too. Have you ever wondered how they get the grass on a golf green to be this perfect?
Is starts with a backhoe
A backhoe digs a nice big hole the size of the green. The hole might be 12 or 16 inches deep.
In the most advanced systems. this hole gets completely lined with plastic to create a gigantic waterproof tub. The bottom of this tub is covered with drainage pipes and several inches of gravel. A layer of special fabric covers the gravel. Then a foot or so of fine sand goes on top of the fabric and fills up the hole.
You can see what is happening. The grass is not growing in "dirt" at all. The green is very much like a hug flowerpot. The green's grass grows in sand with perfect drainage.
Location, location
Where you put the green is also important. It needs plenty of sunlight and good airflow over the green. On many golf. There are different varieties for nearly every climate and situation.
Keeping it up
Sand, perfect drainage and a good location eliminate a huge number of variables and problems. But now the grass it totally dependent on its keepers. There are no nutrients in the sand itself, so all the nutrients in the sand itself, so all the nutrients come from the people taking care of the green.
Once the green is established, you start in on maintenance. This includes daily mowing with a precision greens mower, watering, fertilizing, applying chemicals, aeration and general coddling.
As you can see, it takes a lot of work to create grass this perfect! But, if you follow these steps, you too could create a living carpet. In fact, you can have a real golf green in your yard. there are companies that will help you do this.
Grammar
A backhoe digs a nice big hole the size of the green.
the size of the green-"the size of a/the...."
Mr. Simmons has a guard dog the size of a bear outside his house.
The actress wore a ring with a big stone. The stone was about the size of a ping-pong ball.
green (n)-the green grassy area 果嶺, 绿色蔬菜.
A new golf green will be built in the hills outside the city.
The greens of the golf course aren't in good shape. Some of them are pretty hard and dry.
Mom always makes sure that we eat our greens every day.
chirp (v)-sound of bird, insect or flog...high, short voice. 鸟啾啾叫声
Every morning, Lisa wakes up to the sound of her pet birds chirping.
gravel
gigantic (adj)-巨大的,庞大的
Can you jump over that gigantic puddle of water?
The gigantic office building blocked all the sunshine in the mornings.
*I don't like my feet. They're gigantic.
fabric (n)-cloth material. This dress make of cotton fabric.
This dress is made out of a shiny, blue fabric.
waterproof-water not go through. a waterproof paint-防水漆 proof- 防甚么东西的.
soundproof- 防音设备The studio's soundproof material is imported from Germany.
backhoe-怪手,挖土机 big machine to dig ground, dig hole.
line-something covering the inside. cover is outside.
variety(n)-several kinds of same type things. Fuji apple is one of the varieties.
Helen grow two different varieties of tomatoes in her garden.
eliminate (v)-排除，除去，拿去。get rid of it, complete remove.
This product is guaranteed to eliminate cockroaches in our house.
*The medicine can eliminate your headache in no time.
*To eliminate unnecessary distractions, Paula goes to her parents' to work on her new navel. 不必要的干扰
maintenance (n)-保养，保护，维修 maintain 保持，维持
Ben does all his own home maintenance like painting and fixing the water pipes.
*This fancy old car might be pretty, but it requires a lot of maintenance.
*The building's maintenance staff will be arriving soon.
mow (v)-Beth is responsible for mowing the grass once a week.
coddle-悉心照顾。coddling, care with gentle way.
She coddles her baby girl with extra care, because she's premature.
Children who are coddled too much tend to be very dependent.
establish-form, planted in the ground, once created.
aerating- a process of putting air into the dirt (earth) or plant.
Chat Room
a backhoe-怪手。挖土机。an arm with a bucket
bulldozer-推土机，车头装有铁板的a mettle plate in the front.
a nice big hole-很大的洞
a nice mess-有够乱的，一团糟
a nice cut-很深的伤口
nice 此指非常的。
-------
green (n)- 果岭 putting green-(golf), 推杆。（人）-年轻，稚润嫩，未成熟，
greenhorn- 新手，涉世未深，
Chris is not greenhorn, he has been in this business for 10 years.
green lifestyle-adapted green lifestyle
green technology, green energy环保的，绿色的科技，能源。
going green (adj)-The company is being more environment conscious. 开始做环保。
A lot of planning and care goes into the grass on a golf course
栽培高爾夫球場的草皮需要完善的計畫和呵護
There's more to a golf green than what appears on the surface -lesson from studio classroom
Let's imagine that you are standing on a beautiful golf green. The sun is shining, the sky is a bright blue, the birds are chirping in the nearby trees. It is a perfect day.
Now you look down at your feet. The grass is absolutely perfect too. Have you ever wondered how they get the grass on a golf green to be this perfect?
Is starts with a backhoe
A backhoe digs a nice big hole the size of the green. The hole might be 12 or 16 inches deep.
In the most advanced systems. this hole gets completely lined with plastic to create a gigantic waterproof tub. The bottom of this tub is covered with drainage pipes and several inches of gravel. A layer of special fabric covers the gravel. Then a foot or so of fine sand goes on top of the fabric and fills up the hole.
You can see what is happening. The grass is not growing in "dirt" at all. The green is very much like a hug flowerpot. The green's grass grows in sand with perfect drainage.
Location, location
Where you put the green is also important. It needs plenty of sunlight and good airflow over the green. On many golf. There are different varieties for nearly every climate and situation.
Keeping it up
Sand, perfect drainage and a good location eliminate a huge number of variables and problems. But now the grass it totally dependent on its keepers. There are no nutrients in the sand itself, so all the nutrients in the sand itself, so all the nutrients come from the people taking care of the green.
Once the green is established, you start in on maintenance. This includes daily mowing with a precision greens mower, watering, fertilizing, applying chemicals, aeration and general coddling.
As you can see, it takes a lot of work to create grass this perfect! But, if you follow these steps, you too could create a living carpet. In fact, you can have a real golf green in your yard. there are companies that will help you do this.
Grammar
A backhoe digs a nice big hole the size of the green.
the size of the green-"the size of a/the...."
Mr. Simmons has a guard dog the size of a bear outside his house.
The actress wore a ring with a big stone. The stone was about the size of a ping-pong ball.
green (n)-the green grassy area 果嶺, 绿色蔬菜.
A new golf green will be built in the hills outside the city.
The greens of the golf course aren't in good shape. Some of them are pretty hard and dry.
Mom always makes sure that we eat our greens every day.
chirp (v)-sound of bird, insect or flog...high, short voice. 鸟啾啾叫声
Every morning, Lisa wakes up to the sound of her pet birds chirping.
gravel
gigantic (adj)-巨大的,庞大的
Can you jump over that gigantic puddle of water?
The gigantic office building blocked all the sunshine in the mornings.
*I don't like my feet. They're gigantic.
fabric (n)-cloth material. This dress make of cotton fabric.
This dress is made out of a shiny, blue fabric.
waterproof-water not go through. a waterproof paint-防水漆 proof- 防甚么东西的.
soundproof- 防音设备The studio's soundproof material is imported from Germany.
backhoe-怪手,挖土机 big machine to dig ground, dig hole.
line-something covering the inside. cover is outside.
variety(n)-several kinds of same type things. Fuji apple is one of the varieties.
Helen grow two different varieties of tomatoes in her garden.
eliminate (v)-排除，除去，拿去。get rid of it, complete remove.
This product is guaranteed to eliminate cockroaches in our house.
*The medicine can eliminate your headache in no time.
*To eliminate unnecessary distractions, Paula goes to her parents' to work on her new navel. 不必要的干扰
maintenance (n)-保养，保护，维修 maintain 保持，维持
Ben does all his own home maintenance like painting and fixing the water pipes.
*This fancy old car might be pretty, but it requires a lot of maintenance.
*The building's maintenance staff will be arriving soon.
mow (v)-Beth is responsible for mowing the grass once a week.
coddle-悉心照顾。coddling, care with gentle way.
She coddles her baby girl with extra care, because she's premature.
Children who are coddled too much tend to be very dependent.
establish-form, planted in the ground, once created.
aerating- a process of putting air into the dirt (earth) or plant.
Chat Room
a backhoe-怪手。挖土机。an arm with a bucket
bulldozer-推土机，车头装有铁板的a mettle plate in the front.
a nice big hole-很大的洞
a nice mess-有够乱的，一团糟
a nice cut-很深的伤口
nice 此指非常的。
-------
green (n)- 果岭 putting green-(golf), 推杆。（人）-年轻，稚润嫩，未成熟，
greenhorn- 新手，涉世未深，
Chris is not greenhorn, he has been in this business for 10 years.
green lifestyle-adapted green lifestyle
green technology, green energy环保的，绿色的科技，能源。
going green (adj)-The company is being more environment conscious. 开始做环保。
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Five-Diamond Hotels
五鑽級飯店 What makes a great hotel? 顶级饭店的要件是什么呢？
by Simon Stopps
SC: The Stars and Diamonds ranking systems – what are they and how do they work?
DC: “Diamonds” are the ranking system used by the American Automobile Association (AAA). Rankings range from one to five diamonds and are awarded annually based on the service performance of a hotel.
The more diamonds a hotel has, the more luxury it provides for its guests. The Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle is one of only three hotels in North America that has maintained a five-diamond designation for 25 consecutive years.
A number of different ranking organizations use “stars.” Rankings usually range from one to five stars – again measuring the level of service and quality of the hotel.
SC: What makes a five-diamond hotel a five-diamond hotel?
DC: Adherence to service standards is what sets a five-diamond hotel apart from the rest. When evaluated by AAA, a hotel must achieve a score of 300 or higher, out of a possible 352 points, to be designated with the prestigious five-diamond award.
Points are given for meeting a series of detailed service-related criteria ranging from friendliness and attentiveness of staff to cleanliness and services available.
Once a year, AAA arrives unannounced and evaluates hotels from a guest's perspective.
SC: If you are booking a room in a different part of the world, how do you know you are really getting a quality hotel?
DC: Ultimately it comes down to a rating system's guidelines as well as the overall preferences of the guest. If a traveler has found a particular rating system useful in the past, they should look for a hotel that meets the standards of that system.
Ask your travel agent or contact the hotel directly. They should be able to provide you with a description of the rooms available and amenities provided by the hotel.
SC: What's the best way to get a deal when you are booking?
DC: Most hotels in the United States have websites where you Can learn about seasonal deals being offered.
Some specials may offer discounts, while others may include exclusive amenities that make the room a better value for its price.
Packages are also a great way to save money. They tend to unite a great room rate with either food and beverages or a cultural experience that is unique to that destination.
These deals can give a guest an all-encompassing view of the city they are visiting.
Grammar
The more diamonds a hotel has, the more luxury it provides for its its guests.
"The more diamonds a hotel has..."
"...the more luxury it provides."
"Subject + verb +object
The more+object +subject+verb
The more phone calls I answer, the more headaches I get.
The more cans the students collect and recycle, the more money they can raise for the class trip.
hospitality-take care of other people and welcome guests.
luxury-high quality, top material and good service
consecutive-year right in the roll, no break.
adherence-faithful devotion to something. stick to it not break it. 坚持，固守。对某事的坚持用to
*Adherence to top quality ingredients makes the restaurant outstanding even after all these years.
*Our principal's adherence to rules is well-known among students.
Close adherence to a study plan usually helps Cheryl get great marks.
designation (n)-Phil has received the "Most Valuable Player" designation three times.
designate (v) 选出，给于某种称谓。designation (n)选派，名称，称呼。
*The resort has the designation of "the best resort in the country for honeymooners" 美名
*His designation as ambassador to France was confirmed today.任命为法国大使
criteria (Pl n)-a set of expectation, regulation, requirement.
Students need to meet three criteria before they are allowed to go on the class trip
attentiveness (n)-give special care of something, well care, pay attention.体贴，留意，殷勤
The attentiveness of the flight attendants made Jordan's trip very comfortable.
*The attentiveness of the flight attendants impressed everyone of us.
*It was Paul's attentiveness that actually won Vivian's heart.
prestigious-has reputation of extremely high quality.
prospective-the view of point.
ultimately (adv)-in the end, at last
Ultimately, Megan can't decide until she has seen the report.
amenity (n)-any make the traveler's life a bid easier 休闲设施.
The resort offers lots of amenities to make visitors feel at home.
*The amenities of the resort include a jacuzzi, pool, and gym, and miniature golf course. 按摩浴池
*The town's amenities need a lot of improvement. 需要大大改进
exclusive (adj)-Not for everyone, only available for certain people. 专用的,独有的.
The bank is offering an exclusive discount to its long-term customers.
*This room is for the exclusive use of our VIPs.贵宾,总裁,高级或豪华的
*This parking space is for the exclusive use of the president.
*The tuition of this exclusive boarding school is twice my father's annual salary.
encompass (v)-include, all in encompass-including everything or everyone. 包含,包刮
Stan's all- encompassing list of the company's problems was presented at the staff meeting.
*His book collection encompasses works of many authors, even foreign ones. 作品
*the entrance exam will encompass all subjects. 包刮许多科目
Chat Room
set apart- 1. reserved for special purpose. 专门为。。挪出来，搁置一旁
2. His talent sets apart from his classmate 才华凸出
Are you all set?=Are you ready?
set in your ways? -are you flexible or not? set in his way.固执，已定型，固定
Her wedding ring is set in gold镶嵌在金子, the setting of the ring 镶嵌。
-------
A traveler,they 是很口语的用法.但是若是书写 则前后要一致,后面是複数,前面也要用複数 The travelers, they
by Simon Stopps
SC: The Stars and Diamonds ranking systems – what are they and how do they work?
DC: “Diamonds” are the ranking system used by the American Automobile Association (AAA). Rankings range from one to five diamonds and are awarded annually based on the service performance of a hotel.
The more diamonds a hotel has, the more luxury it provides for its guests. The Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle is one of only three hotels in North America that has maintained a five-diamond designation for 25 consecutive years.
A number of different ranking organizations use “stars.” Rankings usually range from one to five stars – again measuring the level of service and quality of the hotel.
SC: What makes a five-diamond hotel a five-diamond hotel?
DC: Adherence to service standards is what sets a five-diamond hotel apart from the rest. When evaluated by AAA, a hotel must achieve a score of 300 or higher, out of a possible 352 points, to be designated with the prestigious five-diamond award.
Points are given for meeting a series of detailed service-related criteria ranging from friendliness and attentiveness of staff to cleanliness and services available.
Once a year, AAA arrives unannounced and evaluates hotels from a guest's perspective.
SC: If you are booking a room in a different part of the world, how do you know you are really getting a quality hotel?
DC: Ultimately it comes down to a rating system's guidelines as well as the overall preferences of the guest. If a traveler has found a particular rating system useful in the past, they should look for a hotel that meets the standards of that system.
Ask your travel agent or contact the hotel directly. They should be able to provide you with a description of the rooms available and amenities provided by the hotel.
SC: What's the best way to get a deal when you are booking?
DC: Most hotels in the United States have websites where you Can learn about seasonal deals being offered.
Some specials may offer discounts, while others may include exclusive amenities that make the room a better value for its price.
Packages are also a great way to save money. They tend to unite a great room rate with either food and beverages or a cultural experience that is unique to that destination.
These deals can give a guest an all-encompassing view of the city they are visiting.
Grammar
The more diamonds a hotel has, the more luxury it provides for its its guests.
"The more diamonds a hotel has..."
"...the more luxury it provides."
"Subject + verb +object
The more+object +subject+verb
The more phone calls I answer, the more headaches I get.
The more cans the students collect and recycle, the more money they can raise for the class trip.
hospitality-take care of other people and welcome guests.
luxury-high quality, top material and good service
consecutive-year right in the roll, no break.
adherence-faithful devotion to something. stick to it not break it. 坚持，固守。对某事的坚持用to
*Adherence to top quality ingredients makes the restaurant outstanding even after all these years.
*Our principal's adherence to rules is well-known among students.
Close adherence to a study plan usually helps Cheryl get great marks.
designation (n)-Phil has received the "Most Valuable Player" designation three times.
designate (v) 选出，给于某种称谓。designation (n)选派，名称，称呼。
*The resort has the designation of "the best resort in the country for honeymooners" 美名
*His designation as ambassador to France was confirmed today.任命为法国大使
criteria (Pl n)-a set of expectation, regulation, requirement.
Students need to meet three criteria before they are allowed to go on the class trip
attentiveness (n)-give special care of something, well care, pay attention.体贴，留意，殷勤
The attentiveness of the flight attendants made Jordan's trip very comfortable.
*The attentiveness of the flight attendants impressed everyone of us.
*It was Paul's attentiveness that actually won Vivian's heart.
prestigious-has reputation of extremely high quality.
prospective-the view of point.
ultimately (adv)-in the end, at last
Ultimately, Megan can't decide until she has seen the report.
amenity (n)-any make the traveler's life a bid easier 休闲设施.
The resort offers lots of amenities to make visitors feel at home.
*The amenities of the resort include a jacuzzi, pool, and gym, and miniature golf course. 按摩浴池
*The town's amenities need a lot of improvement. 需要大大改进
exclusive (adj)-Not for everyone, only available for certain people. 专用的,独有的.
The bank is offering an exclusive discount to its long-term customers.
*This room is for the exclusive use of our VIPs.贵宾,总裁,高级或豪华的
*This parking space is for the exclusive use of the president.
*The tuition of this exclusive boarding school is twice my father's annual salary.
上流社会专属的学校学费
encompass (v)-include, all in encompass-including everything or everyone. 包含,包刮
Stan's all- encompassing list of the company's problems was presented at the staff meeting.
*His book collection encompasses works of many authors, even foreign ones. 作品
*the entrance exam will encompass all subjects. 包刮许多科目
Chat Room
set apart- 1. reserved for special purpose. 专门为。。挪出来，搁置一旁
2. His talent sets apart from his classmate 才华凸出
Are you all set?=Are you ready?
set in your ways? -are you flexible or not? set in his way.固执，已定型，固定
Her wedding ring is set in gold镶嵌在金子, the setting of the ring 镶嵌。
-------
A traveler,they 是很口语的用法.但是若是书写 则前后要一致,后面是複数,前面也要用複数 The travelers, they
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Amazing Asian Airports
驚豔亞洲機場
The world's finest airports are close to home 全球最佳机场比你想象的更近喔！
by Beth Bowyer Wei
Crowded airplanes, long check-in lines and luggage fees can make flying a chore. Although these hassles can’t be avoided, the world’s top airports help you forget about them! As winners of the 2008 World Airport Awards, these airports rate high in passenger satisfaction. Plus, you’ll find the top four right here in Asia!
Hong Kong International Airport
Named “World’s Best Airport” seven times, Hong Kong International Airport is known for its efficiency. The modern airport’s smooth immigration processes, speedy luggage handling, and convenient transportation links impress travelers. Plus, famous name-brand stores, like Prada, make the airport a shopper’s dream
Changi International Airport, Singagore
Changi International Airport is a feast for the eyes. Orchid gardens, palm trees, a nature trail, and a rooftop pool make this airport unique. Three television rooms-one each for news, sports and movies-help passengers relax. And travelers with a layover of at least five hours can take a free city tour. With over 100 shops, this airport also has excellent duty-free shopping.
Incheon International Airport, Seoul, South Korea
Seoul's 8-year-old Incheon International Airport makes traveling stress-free. With state-of-the-art security, the airport promises that the departure process will take less than 45 minutes. Shorter waiting times mean travelers can enjoy the airport's services. These include a hair salon, a 72-hole golf course and a children's playroom. Incheon's website suggests activities depending on how long passengers must wait for a flight. For a wait of four to six hours, the airport recommends the shower and massage services.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia
The design of Kuala Lumpur International Airport mixes technology and nature, Designers wanted to bring the green space that surrounds the airport inside. So they used the concept "airport in the forest, forest in the airport" Thus, a large section of rain forest sits in the middle of the international terminal. Waiting times are short, so travelers enjoy smooth arrivals, and departures. Luxury shopping and a reflexology center add to the list of benefits.
At these exciting airports, the time between flights feels like a vacation in itself!
More Information
The Munich Airport in Germany comes in as the world's 5th best airport. It offers computer touchscreens that let children learn more about how airports work. At number 6 is the Kansai International Airport in Japan. It offers a DVD rental service and a pet hotel. Danmark's Copenhagen Airport features works of art and brightly polished wood floors. Airports in Zurich, Helsinki and Cape Town complete the top ten list.
Grammar
At these exciting airports, the time between flights feels like a vacation in itself.
"in itself" -"in and of itself"
"considered alone" or "all on its own" (not connected to anything else)
Bob's plan is creative in itself, but we would need to make a lot of changes if we decide to use it.
My trip to the doctor's was horrible. Just sitting in the waiting room for hours was unbearable in itself.
chore (n)-small job/small responsible you do every day or every month, It's not fun.家中的例行工作，作家事。或令人讨厌，或是令人觉得麻烦，困难的工作。
Rachel cleaned the bathroom and took out the trash, but she still has more chores to do.
*Molly has to finish her chores before going out with her friends.
*Attending all these meeting is a real chore to me.
satisfaction (n)-满足，满意，满意度。
Customer satisfaction is very important in our company. Making customers happy makes our business successful. 顾客的满意度。
*Good relationship between co-workers contributes to job satisfaction. 有助于提升工作的满意度
*This car dealership rated first in customer satisfaction last year.
efficiency (n)-take at least amount of time or energy in order to function.
I like this restaurant because of its efficiency I never have to wait long for a meal here.
duty-free (adj)-When Lisa travels, she often buys gifts for her friends at duty-free shops.
layover-中途停留。暂时停留。take a short break in a journey.
We have a 2-hour layover in L.A. before transferring to Denver.
*Charlie took advantage of the layover in Hong Kong and got a haircut at the airport.
state-of-the-art (adj)-highest the level of developement.
That country's high-speed railway is state-of-the-art.
departure (n)-起飞，起飞，起程，出发。at a leaving place, de-有分开的意思。
Keri has an early-morning departure from Boston tomorrow.
*The departure time for flight 301 is 2 p.m.
*Our departure was delayed because of mechanical problems. 机械问题
*There are several departures from Seattle to New York every day. 好几班飞机
concept (n)-general idea or thought.概念，观念
The concept of this restaurant is quite unique. I'm sure it will attract a lot of customers.
*The concept of the earth being round wasn't accepted in the beginning. 地球是圆的。。
*The basic concept of management will be introduced in this course.
arrival (n)-到达at of arriving, departure的反义词
Martha's arrival was delayed, so I had to wait an extra hour for her at the airport.
*Hundreds of fans waited for hours for the arrival of the band.
*We apologize for the late arrival of the bus.
reflexology-hands or feet massage or rab to get energy.
rain forest-a forest gets a lot of rain 热带雨林
Chat Room
Check-in 到机场报到。（人）如旅馆check -in.
long check-in lines
check-in counter- 贵台。where the line usually are.
curbside check-in-curb is the edge of the side walk.机场外边齐楼下，路边报道服务。一下车即可报到。
skycap-路边服务员。（要给小费）
kiosks-kiosk 电脑自动报到亭，透过点选完成登机手续。for carry-on only.
carry-on
check- 托运行李 Do you have any bag to check? I need to check my bag.
checked bag-托运的行李。
----
stress-free, free is without. duty-free, not dutyless. 免税的，
homeless, not home-free 无家可归
trouble-free, not troubleless
只有sugar-free = sugarless. 无糖的。
注意，不同的字要跟不同的字尾
-less 加在（v）动词的后面，意思是无法做到的。the action can't be done.
countless-无法计算的（无数的）count, harm. (harmless 无法伤害的，无害的)
The world's finest airports are close to home 全球最佳机场比你想象的更近喔！
by Beth Bowyer Wei
Crowded airplanes, long check-in lines and luggage fees can make flying a chore. Although these hassles can’t be avoided, the world’s top airports help you forget about them! As winners of the 2008 World Airport Awards, these airports rate high in passenger satisfaction. Plus, you’ll find the top four right here in Asia!
Hong Kong International Airport
Named “World’s Best Airport” seven times, Hong Kong International Airport is known for its efficiency. The modern airport’s smooth immigration processes, speedy luggage handling, and convenient transportation links impress travelers. Plus, famous name-brand stores, like Prada, make the airport a shopper’s dream
Changi International Airport, Singagore
Changi International Airport is a feast for the eyes. Orchid gardens, palm trees, a nature trail, and a rooftop pool make this airport unique. Three television rooms-one each for news, sports and movies-help passengers relax. And travelers with a layover of at least five hours can take a free city tour. With over 100 shops, this airport also has excellent duty-free shopping.
Incheon International Airport, Seoul, South Korea
Seoul's 8-year-old Incheon International Airport makes traveling stress-free. With state-of-the-art security, the airport promises that the departure process will take less than 45 minutes. Shorter waiting times mean travelers can enjoy the airport's services. These include a hair salon, a 72-hole golf course and a children's playroom. Incheon's website suggests activities depending on how long passengers must wait for a flight. For a wait of four to six hours, the airport recommends the shower and massage services.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia
The design of Kuala Lumpur International Airport mixes technology and nature, Designers wanted to bring the green space that surrounds the airport inside. So they used the concept "airport in the forest, forest in the airport" Thus, a large section of rain forest sits in the middle of the international terminal. Waiting times are short, so travelers enjoy smooth arrivals, and departures. Luxury shopping and a reflexology center add to the list of benefits.
At these exciting airports, the time between flights feels like a vacation in itself!
More Information
The Munich Airport in Germany comes in as the world's 5th best airport. It offers computer touchscreens that let children learn more about how airports work. At number 6 is the Kansai International Airport in Japan. It offers a DVD rental service and a pet hotel. Danmark's Copenhagen Airport features works of art and brightly polished wood floors. Airports in Zurich, Helsinki and Cape Town complete the top ten list.
Grammar
At these exciting airports, the time between flights feels like a vacation in itself.
"in itself" -"in and of itself"
"considered alone" or "all on its own" (not connected to anything else)
Bob's plan is creative in itself, but we would need to make a lot of changes if we decide to use it.
My trip to the doctor's was horrible. Just sitting in the waiting room for hours was unbearable in itself.
chore (n)-small job/small responsible you do every day or every month, It's not fun.家中的例行工作，作家事。或令人讨厌，或是令人觉得麻烦，困难的工作。
Rachel cleaned the bathroom and took out the trash, but she still has more chores to do.
*Molly has to finish her chores before going out with her friends.
*Attending all these meeting is a real chore to me.
satisfaction (n)-满足，满意，满意度。
Customer satisfaction is very important in our company. Making customers happy makes our business successful. 顾客的满意度。
*Good relationship between co-workers contributes to job satisfaction. 有助于提升工作的满意度
*This car dealership rated first in customer satisfaction last year.
efficiency (n)-take at least amount of time or energy in order to function.
I like this restaurant because of its efficiency I never have to wait long for a meal here.
duty-free (adj)-When Lisa travels, she often buys gifts for her friends at duty-free shops.
layover-中途停留。暂时停留。take a short break in a journey.
We have a 2-hour layover in L.A. before transferring to Denver.
*Charlie took advantage of the layover in Hong Kong and got a haircut at the airport.
state-of-the-art (adj)-highest the level of developement.
That country's high-speed railway is state-of-the-art.
departure (n)-起飞，起飞，起程，出发。at a leaving place, de-有分开的意思。
Keri has an early-morning departure from Boston tomorrow.
*The departure time for flight 301 is 2 p.m.
*Our departure was delayed because of mechanical problems. 机械问题
*There are several departures from Seattle to New York every day. 好几班飞机
concept (n)-general idea or thought.概念，观念
The concept of this restaurant is quite unique. I'm sure it will attract a lot of customers.
*The concept of the earth being round wasn't accepted in the beginning. 地球是圆的。。
*The basic concept of management will be introduced in this course.
arrival (n)-到达at of arriving, departure的反义词
Martha's arrival was delayed, so I had to wait an extra hour for her at the airport.
*Hundreds of fans waited for hours for the arrival of the band.
*We apologize for the late arrival of the bus.
reflexology-hands or feet massage or rab to get energy.
rain forest-a forest gets a lot of rain 热带雨林
Chat Room
Check-in 到机场报到。（人）如旅馆check -in.
long check-in lines
check-in counter- 贵台。where the line usually are.
curbside check-in-curb is the edge of the side walk.机场外边齐楼下，路边报道服务。一下车即可报到。
skycap-路边服务员。（要给小费）
kiosks-kiosk 电脑自动报到亭，透过点选完成登机手续。for carry-on only.
carry-on
check- 托运行李 Do you have any bag to check? I need to check my bag.
checked bag-托运的行李。
----
stress-free, free is without. duty-free, not dutyless. 免税的，
homeless, not home-free 无家可归
trouble-free, not troubleless
只有sugar-free = sugarless. 无糖的。
注意，不同的字要跟不同的字尾
-less 加在（v）动词的后面，意思是无法做到的。the action can't be done.
countless-无法计算的（无数的）count, harm. (harmless 无法伤害的，无害的)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
For Love or Money?
工作動機：出於熱情，還是為了錢？
Is it more important to work at a job that pays well or one that makes you happy?
你工作的動機是為了什麼？
by Jeremiah Clark and Chelsea Ewald
Every day millions of people wake up, get dressed and go to work. For some, time spent on a project at work is the highlight of their day, but for others, the happiness doesn't come until payday. The average worker spends about 2,140 hours a year at work. Should all this time spent working bring joy to the soul or should it just be endured for the benefits the money brings?
Conversation A
Beth: Hey, Adam. I’m worried about my sister Courtney. She’s in college and has just declared art as her major.
Adam: Why does that worry you? I’ve seen her stuff. She’s very talented.
Beth: I know. But I’m afraid that once she graduates she won’t be able to make ends meet. Most artists only make about 60 percent of what the average worker makes a year. Plus, it’s harder for art majors to find full-time work. But she doesn't seem too concerned.
Adam: You're forgetting that there is more to choosing career than to making money. Courtney loves art, that is what important. Even she is not roll in dough, she should be happy and her emotionally satisfy.
Beth: She should have bills to pay. It's going to be hard for her to sustaining a decent life on what the artists make.
Adam : Okay, Think about this, let's say, Courtney pursues a career in finance, people in that field make plenty of money, but there is no guaranties, she could spend years specializing in a certain area only to be lay off or her work could be outsource due to economic changes.
Beth: I still think a degree that something like business or engineering will be more practical. Besides, having the degree in the one of these field it doesn't mean that she couldn't change her career down the road.
Adam: Perhaps, but she could always complement her art degree with the minor in finance, that way if she can't make enough as an artist in the future, she could work as an accountant for a museum or galleries.
Beth: Courtney is good in math but she hates it. doing the accounting for a gallery wouldn't be good, she rather have a work hanging in the gallery. Still she should doing something more lucrative that make the art as her habit.
Adam: So, she should take a well-paying job that she may not like just to be for the financially safe and secure. I'm not so sure that it's a good idea. Study that shown that people who are not satisfy with their job tent not work as hard as people who like their job.
Beth: Okay, may be I will just let her sink of swim on her own. She knows how I feel about her decision, but I will still going to tell what I were thinking if she ask me again.
Grammar
But you're forgetting that there's more to choosing a career than making money.
there's more to choosing something than something else. 除了这些还有更多的选择时，可用此句型。
There's more to being a good student than getting high test scores.
There's more to being a pet-owner than giving your animal food and water.
highlight (n)-the most exciting, memorable part of something. 最明亮的地方，沿申为最精彩的部分。
Carl has lunch every Friday with his best friend. Tom, It's the highlight of his week.
*Visiting the Eiffel Tower is one of the highlights of the city tour of Paris.
*Highlights of the football game will be shown on the evening news.
make ends meet (idiom)-使收入能应付支出。
The poor farmer has to work in the fields every day just to make ends meet.
roll in dough (idiom)-很有钱。dough her is refer money. 在此是代表钱。dough面团
Ronnie is rolling in dough now that he owns three successful restaurants.
*Henry is now rolling in dough after the successful opening of his own computer company.
*Betty might be dressed simply, but actually she's rolling in dough。 穿着朴素。
decent (adj)-像样的，满不错的，很好的，舒适的，正当的
As a musician, it is hard to make a decent wage unless you are very popular.
*The homeless child is now living in decent condition with his foster family.在寄养家庭过着舒适生活。
*This old lady lives in a decent apartment.
*Eric finally found a decent job. 正当的工作。
outsource (v)-把业务或工程外包。out 向外的，source资源。
Greg's job as a computer programmer was outsourced to India.
*Many major companies in the West outsourced their customer service divisions to companies in India
*Our art design department was outsourced.
minor (n)-not major, not the main subject.
-In college, Sue studied English with a minor in Spanish.
lucrative (adj)-profitable to meet the ends. 获利的，赚钱的
Jeff wants to start a lucrative business so that he can buy a house and a new car.
*The decision by the two companies to cooperate on the project proved to be lucrative for both.合作计划的决定，结果使彼此双方都获利。
*This lucrative investment saved his career.
Tammy's parents are letting her sink or swim in her studies. It's up to her to succeed.
sink or swim (idiom)-Jason put all his money in this product and it's now a case of sink or swim for him. 不是完全失败就是成功。
Chat Room
decent-decent lifestyle 合意舒适的生活。
descent (v)-飞机从高处下降，降落。
descent (n)-血统，遗传的后代。She is British and German's descent. refer to descendant.
dissent -disagree with something.不赞同，反对的意思。I was dissent-formal way to say you don't agree with something. Descent (v),(n), dissent, 发音同，重音在后面
-----
complement is not compliment
complement-字根有complete 即是补充使完成。若两样东西complement each other 是相辅相成的意思。
compliment- 赞美，夸奖。complimentary (adj)-优待的，免费赠送的。有些旅馆会放一篮fruit basket免费赠送的水果。
Is it more important to work at a job that pays well or one that makes you happy?
你工作的動機是為了什麼？
by Jeremiah Clark and Chelsea Ewald
Every day millions of people wake up, get dressed and go to work. For some, time spent on a project at work is the highlight of their day, but for others, the happiness doesn't come until payday. The average worker spends about 2,140 hours a year at work. Should all this time spent working bring joy to the soul or should it just be endured for the benefits the money brings?
Conversation A
Beth: Hey, Adam. I’m worried about my sister Courtney. She’s in college and has just declared art as her major.
Adam: Why does that worry you? I’ve seen her stuff. She’s very talented.
Beth: I know. But I’m afraid that once she graduates she won’t be able to make ends meet. Most artists only make about 60 percent of what the average worker makes a year. Plus, it’s harder for art majors to find full-time work. But she doesn't seem too concerned.
Adam: You're forgetting that there is more to choosing career than to making money. Courtney loves art, that is what important. Even she is not roll in dough, she should be happy and her emotionally satisfy.
Beth: She should have bills to pay. It's going to be hard for her to sustaining a decent life on what the artists make.
Adam : Okay, Think about this, let's say, Courtney pursues a career in finance, people in that field make plenty of money, but there is no guaranties, she could spend years specializing in a certain area only to be lay off or her work could be outsource due to economic changes.
Beth: I still think a degree that something like business or engineering will be more practical. Besides, having the degree in the one of these field it doesn't mean that she couldn't change her career down the road.
Adam: Perhaps, but she could always complement her art degree with the minor in finance, that way if she can't make enough as an artist in the future, she could work as an accountant for a museum or galleries.
Beth: Courtney is good in math but she hates it. doing the accounting for a gallery wouldn't be good, she rather have a work hanging in the gallery. Still she should doing something more lucrative that make the art as her habit.
Adam: So, she should take a well-paying job that she may not like just to be for the financially safe and secure. I'm not so sure that it's a good idea. Study that shown that people who are not satisfy with their job tent not work as hard as people who like their job.
Beth: Okay, may be I will just let her sink of swim on her own. She knows how I feel about her decision, but I will still going to tell what I were thinking if she ask me again.
Grammar
But you're forgetting that there's more to choosing a career than making money.
there's more to choosing something than something else. 除了这些还有更多的选择时，可用此句型。
There's more to being a good student than getting high test scores.
There's more to being a pet-owner than giving your animal food and water.
highlight (n)-the most exciting, memorable part of something. 最明亮的地方，沿申为最精彩的部分。
Carl has lunch every Friday with his best friend. Tom, It's the highlight of his week.
*Visiting the Eiffel Tower is one of the highlights of the city tour of Paris.
*Highlights of the football game will be shown on the evening news.
make ends meet (idiom)-使收入能应付支出。
The poor farmer has to work in the fields every day just to make ends meet.
roll in dough (idiom)-很有钱。dough her is refer money. 在此是代表钱。dough面团
Ronnie is rolling in dough now that he owns three successful restaurants.
*Henry is now rolling in dough after the successful opening of his own computer company.
*Betty might be dressed simply, but actually she's rolling in dough。 穿着朴素。
decent (adj)-像样的，满不错的，很好的，舒适的，正当的
As a musician, it is hard to make a decent wage unless you are very popular.
*The homeless child is now living in decent condition with his foster family.在寄养家庭过着舒适生活。
*This old lady lives in a decent apartment.
*Eric finally found a decent job. 正当的工作。
outsource (v)-把业务或工程外包。out 向外的，source资源。
Greg's job as a computer programmer was outsourced to India.
*Many major companies in the West outsourced their customer service divisions to companies in India
*Our art design department was outsourced.
minor (n)-not major, not the main subject.
-In college, Sue studied English with a minor in Spanish.
lucrative (adj)-profitable to meet the ends. 获利的，赚钱的
Jeff wants to start a lucrative business so that he can buy a house and a new car.
*The decision by the two companies to cooperate on the project proved to be lucrative for both.合作计划的决定，结果使彼此双方都获利。
*This lucrative investment saved his career.
Tammy's parents are letting her sink or swim in her studies. It's up to her to succeed.
sink or swim (idiom)-Jason put all his money in this product and it's now a case of sink or swim for him. 不是完全失败就是成功。
Chat Room
decent-decent lifestyle 合意舒适的生活。
descent (v)-飞机从高处下降，降落。
descent (n)-血统，遗传的后代。She is British and German's descent. refer to descendant.
dissent -disagree with something.不赞同，反对的意思。I was dissent-formal way to say you don't agree with something. Descent (v),(n), dissent, 发音同，重音在后面
-----
complement is not compliment
complement-字根有complete 即是补充使完成。若两样东西complement each other 是相辅相成的意思。
compliment- 赞美，夸奖。complimentary (adj)-优待的，免费赠送的。有些旅馆会放一篮fruit basket免费赠送的水果。
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Improve Your Business With Bricks
玩積木提升業績
LEGO® toys are not just for children anymore by Simon Stopps
Since 1958, children have loved LEGO® bricks, and they are not alone. Parents and teachers are also big fans of the colorful toys. In fact, the bricks are so popular that they have been named “Toy of the Century” – twice!
The popularity of LEGO toys should be no surprise. The LEGO Group has spent much of its history focusing on fun, high-quality toys. Playing with their bricks can improve creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Even the name LEGO – taken from the Danish term leg godt – means “play well.”
But LEGO bricks are just toys, right? Wrong. Children, as it turns out, aren't the only people who can benefit from playing with the bricks. In 1995, the LEGO Group's owner wanted to improve the way his company made decisions. With the help of university researchers, LEGO Serious Play (LSP) was born. At its heart, LEGO Serious play is a process for improving business performance. But it is also about playing with bricks-seriously.
Most companies face their problems by holding meetings. Unfortunately, meetings are not always the best way to resolve problems. Meetings can make it difficult for everyone to participate and can lead people to oversimplify problems. As a result, ideas are lost, misunderstandings occur, and some opinions are ignored. LEGO Serious Play uses play to overcome these difficulties. Participants use bricks to build models that show how they and their organization work. This is done over several rounds of building and then talking about what has been made.
There are many advantages to dealing with problems through play. While playing everyone gets to participate. More importantly, the process helps people examine problems from different points of view. Does it work? "Oh, it really works," says David Gauntlett, a university professor and Serious Play researcher. "It gets people thinking and responding to each other in a different way."
You never know. The answer to your next problem may not be in discussion or a meeting. It may be in the toy box.
Grammar
Meetings can make it difficult for everyone to participate...
to make it difficult for someone to... (make hard for someone to do something) 很实用的句子文法
Meetings can become a situation where it's hard for everyone to participate.
Janice's small income makes it hard for her to pay all her monthly bills.
The loud music from the party next door made it hard for Clarence to fall asleep.
serious-usually serious and play don't go together, here you play serious to help performance.
fan (n)-爱好者fan of something, you are admire, enjoy, passionate of something.
I've been a Boston Red Sox fan since I was a kid.
*Many baseball fans stayed up all night to watch Chien-Ming Wang play last night.
*Marco is a big fan of sci-fi movies. He has the whole collection of "Star Trek" movies
popular (adj)-流行的She is America's most popular singer. popularity (n)受欢迎的。人气，通俗性，流行
*The band "Wham" used to be very popular in the 80's.
*The scandal really hurt the singer's popularity
Students will be starting their university exams next week.
university (n), and (adj)
resolve (v)-bring it to the end that come out no problem.解决争端，问题或危险。 下定决心
*We need to resolve our conflicts so we can really work as a team.
*Hank resolved that he would walk 2 miles every day, but he never did.
process (n)-take a long time to get there step by step.过程。
Before you can get a job for the government. you have go through a complicated hiring process.
*The process of learning is actually more important than the result.
*Learning how to drive is a painful process for me.
*The doctor used some medicine to speed up the healing process.
unfortunately (adv)-Unfortunately, I'm afraid I don't know when Mrs. Stevens will be back in the office.Sara wants to resolve the argument between her brothers as quickly as possible..
advantage-好处，优势
Chandra's biggest advantage is her speed. She is an amazing runner. *One of the advantages of traveling in an RV is the freedom it gives you.
*Years of experience gave Victor an advantage over his competitors.
respond (v)-communication with, have relationship with...
Erich will respond to your email later today.
oversimplify-过度的简化。over-过度，simplify-使简单化。
People often try to oversimplify problems, but in the end, that is not helpful.
oversimplification (n)
Chat Room
at its heart=the heart of the matter=-get into the most important part of something.
at its heart 事情的核心，问题的根源。heart-心脏，重心，中心。
take heart -encourage someone, take heart!鼓励别人，加油，再接再厉，振作起来。某人考试考不好，你可以说，take heart, 没关系，下次再来。
take to heart-keep it in the heart.铭记在心的。把别人给你的建议放在心上。
with all my heart-全心全意的。
with half a heart=halfhearted (adj)-半心半意，不甚么用心的， 不怎么上心的。
-----------------
LEGO® toys are not just for children anymore by Simon Stopps
Since 1958, children have loved LEGO® bricks, and they are not alone. Parents and teachers are also big fans of the colorful toys. In fact, the bricks are so popular that they have been named “Toy of the Century” – twice!
The popularity of LEGO toys should be no surprise. The LEGO Group has spent much of its history focusing on fun, high-quality toys. Playing with their bricks can improve creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Even the name LEGO – taken from the Danish term leg godt – means “play well.”
But LEGO bricks are just toys, right? Wrong. Children, as it turns out, aren't the only people who can benefit from playing with the bricks. In 1995, the LEGO Group's owner wanted to improve the way his company made decisions. With the help of university researchers, LEGO Serious Play (LSP) was born. At its heart, LEGO Serious play is a process for improving business performance. But it is also about playing with bricks-seriously.
Most companies face their problems by holding meetings. Unfortunately, meetings are not always the best way to resolve problems. Meetings can make it difficult for everyone to participate and can lead people to oversimplify problems. As a result, ideas are lost, misunderstandings occur, and some opinions are ignored. LEGO Serious Play uses play to overcome these difficulties. Participants use bricks to build models that show how they and their organization work. This is done over several rounds of building and then talking about what has been made.
There are many advantages to dealing with problems through play. While playing everyone gets to participate. More importantly, the process helps people examine problems from different points of view. Does it work? "Oh, it really works," says David Gauntlett, a university professor and Serious Play researcher. "It gets people thinking and responding to each other in a different way."
You never know. The answer to your next problem may not be in discussion or a meeting. It may be in the toy box.
Grammar
Meetings can make it difficult for everyone to participate...
to make it difficult for someone to... (make hard for someone to do something) 很实用的句子文法
Meetings can become a situation where it's hard for everyone to participate.
Janice's small income makes it hard for her to pay all her monthly bills.
The loud music from the party next door made it hard for Clarence to fall asleep.
serious-usually serious and play don't go together, here you play serious to help performance.
fan (n)-爱好者fan of something, you are admire, enjoy, passionate of something.
I've been a Boston Red Sox fan since I was a kid.
*Many baseball fans stayed up all night to watch Chien-Ming Wang play last night.
*Marco is a big fan of sci-fi movies. He has the whole collection of "Star Trek" movies
popular (adj)-流行的She is America's most popular singer. popularity (n)受欢迎的。人气，通俗性，流行
*The band "Wham" used to be very popular in the 80's.
*The scandal really hurt the singer's popularity
Students will be starting their university exams next week.
university (n), and (adj)
resolve (v)-bring it to the end that come out no problem.解决争端，问题或危险。 下定决心
*We need to resolve our conflicts so we can really work as a team.
*Hank resolved that he would walk 2 miles every day, but he never did.
process (n)-take a long time to get there step by step.过程。
Before you can get a job for the government. you have go through a complicated hiring process.
*The process of learning is actually more important than the result.
*Learning how to drive is a painful process for me.
*The doctor used some medicine to speed up the healing process.
unfortunately (adv)-Unfortunately, I'm afraid I don't know when Mrs. Stevens will be back in the office.Sara wants to resolve the argument between her brothers as quickly as possible..
advantage-好处，优势
Chandra's biggest advantage is her speed. She is an amazing runner. *One of the advantages of traveling in an RV is the freedom it gives you.
*Years of experience gave Victor an advantage over his competitors.
respond (v)-communication with, have relationship with...
Erich will respond to your email later today.
oversimplify-过度的简化。over-过度，simplify-使简单化。
People often try to oversimplify problems, but in the end, that is not helpful.
oversimplification (n)
Chat Room
at its heart=the heart of the matter=-get into the most important part of something.
at its heart 事情的核心，问题的根源。heart-心脏，重心，中心。
take heart -encourage someone, take heart!鼓励别人，加油，再接再厉，振作起来。某人考试考不好，你可以说，take heart, 没关系，下次再来。
take to heart-keep it in the heart.铭记在心的。把别人给你的建议放在心上。
with all my heart-全心全意的。
with half a heart=halfhearted (adj)-半心半意，不甚么用心的， 不怎么上心的。
-----------------
Think outside the box-have creative think that are out of the box. box here is not 盒子，是指框架，传统，规范，限制。-指在框架外的思考，跳出了框框的思考，天马行空的想。
Critical thinking- research the topic careful and quick before make decision. 批判性的思考critical 批判的
批判性思考是一种严谨，高层次的思考。这种思想是独立的，且是培养出来的，每个人都该努力去拥有
Saturday, August 15, 2009
The Life of Bees
蜜蜂的一生 Bees do more than make your life sweeter
探析蜜蜂的所有本事──以及牠們對人類的貢獻
by Jeremiah Clark
If the bee disappears, people will soon follow. Though this statement might be somewhat exaggerated, the world has recently been reminded of how important bees really are. A strange phenomenon called Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is making bees disappear in various places around the globe. In some cases, entire colonies have disappeared. The Western honeybee, one of the most well-known bee species, has been particularly affected. And, according to some studies, CCD has the potential to cause billions of dollars in losses.
Why are these small, fuzzy insects so vital to the world? Bees do something that no other insect can do-they make honey. Honey contains everything needed to sustain life-including water! But this sweet substance is just one of the many products given to us by bees. Most bee species also produce beeswax, which is found in hundreds of products such as candles, soaps and some skin creams.
When speaking of how people are dependent on bees for survival, we aren't talking about honey or beeswax. Apiarists, people who raise bees, keep them for more than just their honey. They contract their bees out to farmers to pollinate their corps. In fact, without bees, we would not be able to eat many fruits and vegetables, including almonds onions, melons and pumpkins.
How do bees pollinate plants? They frequent flowers to collect nectar and pollen to use as food. As bees travel from flower to flower picking up new pollen, they drop off some of the pollen they've already collected. Plants then use this pollen to reproduce. Both bees and flowers benefit from this process, and so do we. In theUnited States
So the next time you see a bee buzzing around, remember that it's doing more than just making life a little sweeter.
Did You Know
Honey is actually the product of nectar being regurgitated and dehydrated by the bees several times, which gives it its thick consistency.
-Bees are they only species that produces human food.
-Honey is the only food that contains every nutrient that a human needs to survive; it even contains water.
-One teaspoon of honey packs enough energy for a single be to fly around the world!
Grammar
So next time you see a bee bussing around, remember that it's doing more than just making life a little sweeter.
doing more than just + verb-ing (强调 the thing is not as simple as people they think)
just
The assistant is doing more than just making coffee
Being a fashion model is more than just standing in front of a camera and looking pretty.
exaggerate (v)-夸大其词，夸张，言过其实。
Kimmy often exaggerates her stories so that people think she is more interesting.
*The side-effect of the treatment has been greatly exaggerated. 治疗的副作用
*I'm not exaggerating, tonight's dessert is the best I've ever had! 甜点
phenomenon (n)(单数)- 现象, 特殊事物. phenomena(複数)重音都在第二节.
John experienced a natural phenomenon in his village, when it snowed for the first in 50 years.
*Racism is not a recent phenomenon. 种族主义.
*The lining-up of the major planets of the solar system is a rare phenomenon.太阳系主要得行星连成一线是很罕见的现象
Sometimes, people can see Northern light inCanada
vital-重要得,绝对不可缺少的.
Joseph is a vital part of our company We can't afford to lose him.
*The sales department plays a vital role in our company.
*It is vital to get clean water and food supplies to this flooded area immediately. 淹水地区
sustain (v)-maintain, or continue to live (something) you won't die.
We need lots of water to sustain us on our hike across the dessert.
disappear-died out
CCD-colony collapse Disorder, colony-a group of bees (bee colony), collapse-falling unto ground.
sting, stung, I afraid to get stung by bees.
dependent (adj)-依靠的，依赖的 depend (v) 依赖，依靠, dependent on something 取决于某事物。
*Geordia is really dependent on her parents.
*The future of the comany is dependent on the success of this new product.
The young child is still dependent on his mother for all of his daily needs.
pollinate (v)-take pollin from one flower to another flower. 对。授粉 pollination (n)-授粉作用 Butterflies and moths help pollinate the floweres in this field.
*Many insects are necessary for pollination.
pollen (n)-Bill sneezes whenever he comes in contact with dust or pollen.花粉
*Larry is allergic to pollen and dust.
*Birds and butterflies pollinate plants by carrying pollen among flowers.
drop off (phr v)-放下，留下，落下。
The mailman stopped to drop off some mail for the shop owner.
*Can you drop me off at the bus stop on your way home? 把我放下来（放在）
*We dropped our luggage off at the hotel and went sight-seeing. 把行李先放在旅馆，然后去观光。
nactar (n)-quite sweet, is inside of the flower. busy bees (idiom)
Chat Room
If the bee disappear, people will soon follow.
the - 定冠词用法 indicate whole class, whole group as one, +(v) is . It's not apply to people
the bee- all bees
the shark-all sharks, -The shark is a dangerous animal.
the computer-all computers- The computer has changed the way students do schoolwork.
the violin-all violins-The violin is difficult to play.
a bee means one bee, all bees=the bee,
people here is mean all people, the people is that particular person. man=all men, same as people.
The cat (all cats) is a very independent animal.
I can play the piano (all piano).
-----
Apiarists-beekeeper
keeper
zookeeper, 动物园的管理员
shopkeeper, 商店的老板
innkeeper- 小旅馆的老板
housekeeper- 女管家 haired for doing cleaning the house or rooms.
groundskeeper -远动场地或花园的管理员
bookkeeper -book-账簿，管理帐目纪录的人，帐房，主计。
goalkeeper-In a sport, a player prevent the ball to get in the net. 足球，曲棍球的守门员
peacekeeper-维持和平者，两国间交战的停火执行小组。UN联合国的和平部队。
Silly question：
What kind of B is good for your health? -Vitamin B
What do you call the B that born in May?-Maybe
探析蜜蜂的所有本事──以及牠們對人類的貢獻
by Jeremiah Clark
If the bee disappears, people will soon follow. Though this statement might be somewhat exaggerated, the world has recently been reminded of how important bees really are. A strange phenomenon called Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is making bees disappear in various places around the globe. In some cases, entire colonies have disappeared. The Western honeybee, one of the most well-known bee species, has been particularly affected. And, according to some studies, CCD has the potential to cause billions of dollars in losses.
Why are these small, fuzzy insects so vital to the world? Bees do something that no other insect can do-they make honey. Honey contains everything needed to sustain life-including water! But this sweet substance is just one of the many products given to us by bees. Most bee species also produce beeswax, which is found in hundreds of products such as candles, soaps and some skin creams.
When speaking of how people are dependent on bees for survival, we aren't talking about honey or beeswax. Apiarists, people who raise bees, keep them for more than just their honey. They contract their bees out to farmers to pollinate their corps. In fact, without bees, we would not be able to eat many fruits and vegetables, including almonds onions, melons and pumpkins.
How do bees pollinate plants? They frequent flowers to collect nectar and pollen to use as food. As bees travel from flower to flower picking up new pollen, they drop off some of the pollen they've already collected. Plants then use this pollen to reproduce. Both bees and flowers benefit from this process, and so do we. In the
So the next time you see a bee buzzing around, remember that it's doing more than just making life a little sweeter.
Did You Know
Honey is actually the product of nectar being regurgitated and dehydrated by the bees several times, which gives it its thick consistency.
-Bees are they only species that produces human food.
-Honey is the only food that contains every nutrient that a human needs to survive; it even contains water.
-One teaspoon of honey packs enough energy for a single be to fly around the world!
Grammar
So next time you see a bee bussing around, remember that it's doing more than just making life a little sweeter.
doing more than just + verb-ing (强调 the thing is not as simple as people they think)
just
The assistant is doing more than just making coffee
Being a fashion model is more than just standing in front of a camera and looking pretty.
exaggerate (v)-夸大其词，夸张，言过其实。
Kimmy often exaggerates her stories so that people think she is more interesting.
*The side-effect of the treatment has been greatly exaggerated. 治疗的副作用
*I'm not exaggerating, tonight's dessert is the best I've ever had! 甜点
phenomenon (n)(单数)- 现象, 特殊事物. phenomena(複数)重音都在第二节.
John experienced a natural phenomenon in his village, when it snowed for the first in 50 years.
*Racism is not a recent phenomenon. 种族主义.
*The lining-up of the major planets of the solar system is a rare phenomenon.太阳系主要得行星连成一线是很罕见的现象
Sometimes, people can see Northern light in
vital-重要得,绝对不可缺少的.
Joseph is a vital part of our company We can't afford to lose him.
*The sales department plays a vital role in our company.
*It is vital to get clean water and food supplies to this flooded area immediately. 淹水地区
sustain (v)-maintain, or continue to live (something) you won't die.
We need lots of water to sustain us on our hike across the dessert.
disappear-died out
CCD-colony collapse Disorder, colony-a group of bees (bee colony), collapse-falling unto ground.
sting, stung, I afraid to get stung by bees.
dependent (adj)-依靠的，依赖的 depend (v) 依赖，依靠, dependent on something 取决于某事物。
*Geordia is really dependent on her parents.
*The future of the comany is dependent on the success of this new product.
The young child is still dependent on his mother for all of his daily needs.
pollinate (v)-take pollin from one flower to another flower. 对。授粉 pollination (n)-授粉作用 Butterflies and moths help pollinate the floweres in this field.
*Many insects are necessary for pollination.
pollen (n)-Bill sneezes whenever he comes in contact with dust or pollen.花粉
*Larry is allergic to pollen and dust.
*Birds and butterflies pollinate plants by carrying pollen among flowers.
drop off (phr v)-放下，留下，落下。
The mailman stopped to drop off some mail for the shop owner.
*Can you drop me off at the bus stop on your way home? 把我放下来（放在）
*We dropped our luggage off at the hotel and went sight-seeing. 把行李先放在旅馆，然后去观光。
nactar (n)-quite sweet, is inside of the flower. busy bees (idiom)
Chat Room
If the bee disappear, people will soon follow.
the - 定冠词用法 indicate whole class, whole group as one, +(v) is . It's not apply to people
the bee- all bees
the shark-all sharks, -The shark is a dangerous animal.
the computer-all computers- The computer has changed the way students do schoolwork.
the violin-all violins-The violin is difficult to play.
a bee means one bee, all bees=the bee,
people here is mean all people, the people is that particular person. man=all men, same as people.
The cat (all cats) is a very independent animal.
I can play the piano (all piano).
-----
Apiarists-beekeeper
keeper
zookeeper, 动物园的管理员
shopkeeper, 商店的老板
innkeeper- 小旅馆的老板
housekeeper- 女管家 haired for doing cleaning the house or rooms.
groundskeeper -远动场地或花园的管理员
bookkeeper -book-账簿，管理帐目纪录的人，帐房，主计。
goalkeeper-In a sport, a player prevent the ball to get in the net. 足球，曲棍球的守门员
peacekeeper-维持和平者，两国间交战的停火执行小组。UN联合国的和平部队。
Silly question：
What kind of B is good for your health? -Vitamin B
What do you call the B that born in May?-Maybe
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