新年新希望Tips for making lasting resolutions by新年正是在生活中力求改变得大好机会！ Pamela Osment
Happy New Year!
Today, many of us begin trying to keep our New Year’s resolutions. But unfortunately, most of us will give up on them before the month is over. Why do we bother to make these yearly pledges? And why are they so hard to keep?
Why make them?
Each new year brings the chance to start over and make a new beginning. It seems like the perfect time to deal with some of our habits that are not very desirable. During the holiday season, which begins with Thanksgiving, Americans usually eat too much. that could explain why the first resolution on many lists is to lose weight!
Along with eating too much comes spending too much At Christmastime, people sometimes spend more than they can afford. This often involves using credit cards instead of cash. After the holidays, many are ready to take control of their lives. And New Year's feels like the ideal time to start!
Why can't we keep them?
An American writer wrote, "No one likes change but babies in diapers." Making permanent changes can be difficult because it often involves changing the way we act. When doctors tell patients they will die unless they make lifestyle changes most don't listen. In fact researchers have found that only one in seven makes the necessary changes!
We cling to our habits even when they're not good for us. And we resist change even when it's our own idea. So how can we follow through on our resolutions?
Here are three tips can help us:
Make them positive
Negative language makes us feel like we're being punished. Replace "I won't eat sweets" with "I'll enjoy more of my favorite fruit each day.
Make them specific
Don't say, "I'll exercise more this year." Instead say, "I'll walk around the park four times a week.”
Make them realistic
After three months, review your goals. If they're not working, change or replace them with new ones. You'll have greater success keeping your resolutions if they realistically match your lifestyle.
Grammar
Along with eating too much comes spending too much.
"Along with something comes something else" is a great sentence patent to use when you try to describe "two things or two situating is about happening at the same time"
Along with having to take the dog out for walks comes bathing it regularly.
Along with the free buffet dinner comes a complimentary pass to the spa.
Vocabulary
resolution -决心,决定Nothing can change her resolution to go to college.
New Year Resolution-新年新希望
My new Year's resolution was to read a good book each week.
pledge-保证,誓言,宣誓
The candidate made the pledge to lower taxes and decrease unemployment失业
Will the president keep his pledge to improve national health care?
Both countries pledged to a cease fire.宣誓停火(停止开战)
desirable-令人想要的,中意的或吸引人的.able to be desired (wanted). desire (v)渴望
Being a doctor is considered a desirable job. 理想的工作.People respect them, and the job pays well.受到人们的尊敬,收入菲浅.
Prior experience is desirable to obtain the job, but not necessary.过去的经验比较有益于.
cling-坚持,墨守The manager was criticized for clinging to old ideas. 过去式或过去分词-clung
The mother clung to the hope that her son would return home safely one day.坚持
resist-抗拒,抵制The soldiers tried to resist the invasion of the enemy but failed. re-有对抗之意
The older residents of this building resist the idea of renovation.老住客抵制.整修的想法
realistic-务实的,实事求是的, 脚踏实地的,real (adj)真实的
For now, renting an apartment seems a more realistic option than buying a house.
Chat Room
Lose Weight vs. Weight loss 减肥
Lose Weight is verb phrase. "I want to lose weight this year."
Weight loss is noun phrase, (adj. 用来形容technique or program) 减肥方法或减肥课程.
----------
Change-改变,改换
a change of diapers-换尿布
"No one likes change but babies in diapers".所有人都不喜欢改环,给婴孩换尿布除外.即是说"要做出永久的改变,更是难上加难".
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Cloudy and Chilly, Lonely and Weary
寂寞像朵烏雲With the pressures of finals, please with me a Merry Christmas Before Christmas vacation comes the pressure of finalsby Luke Wang
Time flies. In the blink of an eye, it’s already the end of my first semester. In American culture, December is one of the most exciting months of the year. Without a doubt, it’s because school is letting out for winter break, and Christmas is upon us. Despite enjoying the thought of my Christmas break, final exams and projects loomed over me like a thunderous cloud. Not only did I have an in-class essay, I also had a presentation, my research paper, rehearsal for acting class and other tests. I felt like my busy schedule was killing me.
I hope all my hard work this semester pays off with a high GPA. (Grade Point Average)
The week after finals is the most exciting time for all students:Christmas break, Christmas break parallels the winter break, or Lunar New Year break, In Asian countries. Families get together and celebrate. Fortunately, I was able to visit my uncle in Seattle for my first Christmas in the States. It was a white Christmas filled with peace and love. However, I wish I could be back home for Christmas break. I wish I could spend some time with my family and friends back home. I wish.
Grammar
I hope all my hard work this semester pays off with a high GPA.
to pay off-to result in a benefit.
All of Rita's years of working for the company paid off; she is now the senior vice-president of the company.
Cheating never pays off-even if no one catches you.
Vocabulary
blink of an eye (idiom)-At Sam's college graduation, Jenny felt as if her son had grown up in the blink of an eye.
*If felt like in just the blink of an eye, my little boy became a teenager.
*In the blink of an eye, the ordinary girl turned into a beautiful woman as...
loom (v)-隐约的出现. 不及物动词+介系词+受词。
After the president was killed, the whole country felt war looming over them.
*The approaching final exam loomed in my head each day即将..隐约出现在脑海里
*Anxiety loomed over Nick after he lost his job.焦虑笼罩
*A ship loomed out of the dense fog.浓的
presentation (n)-a report to talk to in front of the people.
Harold spent the whole evening preparing his presentation for the company's managers.
parallel (v)-使平行,使一致para有旁边的意思. 二平行线
At the convention, the two scientists suddenly realized that their experiments paralleled one another's work.
*The parents break parallels their kids' vacations.家长拿假与小孩的假期一致
*Madison Street is parallel to Main Street.二条街是平行的
Chat Room
the semester system
first semester/second semester, first from September finishes before Christmas.
and the second semester starts from second or Third week after the New Year finishes at early May. Each semester last about 15-16 weeks long.
interim-is the short period of the school between the summer vacation break.
The quarter system-each semester is about three months a period. It usually are three semester, but sometimes school add a summer semester for students to take classes.
Time flies. In the blink of an eye, it’s already the end of my first semester. In American culture, December is one of the most exciting months of the year. Without a doubt, it’s because school is letting out for winter break, and Christmas is upon us. Despite enjoying the thought of my Christmas break, final exams and projects loomed over me like a thunderous cloud. Not only did I have an in-class essay, I also had a presentation, my research paper, rehearsal for acting class and other tests. I felt like my busy schedule was killing me.
I hope all my hard work this semester pays off with a high GPA. (Grade Point Average)
The week after finals is the most exciting time for all students:Christmas break, Christmas break parallels the winter break, or Lunar New Year break, In Asian countries. Families get together and celebrate. Fortunately, I was able to visit my uncle in Seattle for my first Christmas in the States. It was a white Christmas filled with peace and love. However, I wish I could be back home for Christmas break. I wish I could spend some time with my family and friends back home. I wish.
Grammar
I hope all my hard work this semester pays off with a high GPA.
to pay off-to result in a benefit.
All of Rita's years of working for the company paid off; she is now the senior vice-president of the company.
Cheating never pays off-even if no one catches you.
Vocabulary
blink of an eye (idiom)-At Sam's college graduation, Jenny felt as if her son had grown up in the blink of an eye.
*If felt like in just the blink of an eye, my little boy became a teenager.
*In the blink of an eye, the ordinary girl turned into a beautiful woman as...
loom (v)-隐约的出现. 不及物动词+介系词+受词。
After the president was killed, the whole country felt war looming over them.
*The approaching final exam loomed in my head each day即将..隐约出现在脑海里
*Anxiety loomed over Nick after he lost his job.焦虑笼罩
*A ship loomed out of the dense fog.浓的
presentation (n)-a report to talk to in front of the people.
Harold spent the whole evening preparing his presentation for the company's managers.
parallel (v)-使平行,使一致para有旁边的意思. 二平行线
At the convention, the two scientists suddenly realized that their experiments paralleled one another's work.
*The parents break parallels their kids' vacations.家长拿假与小孩的假期一致
*Madison Street is parallel to Main Street.二条街是平行的
Chat Room
the semester system
first semester/second semester, first from September finishes before Christmas.
and the second semester starts from second or Third week after the New Year finishes at early May. Each semester last about 15-16 weeks long.
interim-is the short period of the school between the summer vacation break.
The quarter system-each semester is about three months a period. It usually are three semester, but sometimes school add a summer semester for students to take classes.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Salzburg for the Holidays
莫札特天籟貫穿的小城 This small Austrian city offers lots to enjoy during the holidays 造訪這座奧地利城市，體驗白雪、重山和聖誕市集的滋味experience snow, mountains and Christmas markets in this Austrian city by Ruth Devlin
The hills are alive with the sound of music ... and not just the hills. In Salzburg, melodies of great composer and native son Mozart (1756-91) fill the city’s churches and concert halls. Musicians perform more than 2,000 classical concerts annually, many featuring Mozart’s music. Fans can visit his birthplace, where the boy wonder composed many of his early works. All kinds of musical artifacts fill the home, which also contains an apartment that is furnished from Mozart’s time. Across the Salzach River, which runs through Salzburg, the Mozart Wohnhaus also welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
Mozart’s family moved here when he was 17. A fascinating 30-minute movie details the lives of Mozart and his interesting family. Besides Mozart, this lovely old Austrian city offers a gloriously preserved old town charming gardens, ornate churches and Europe's larges and most complete medieval castle. Hohensalzburg Fortress sits on a rock high above the river. You can hike up or ride the funicular to the 900-year-old castle. From the courtyard, enjoy impressive views of the city and then visit the palatial interior. Climb to the top of a tower for a commanding city view.
While many visitors enjoy Salzburg in the summer and flock to the Salzburg Festival Christmastime sees almost as many people come to town. In winter, skiing enthusiasts take advantage of nearby mountain resorts. Decorations adorn the town and the Christmas markets. Salzburg's most famous market, Salzburger Christkindlmarkt usually opens for business five weeks before Christmas. Groups of instrumentalists and singers entertain market-goers, and the smell of roasted almonds, hot chestnuts and Christmas pastry-Lebkuchen -wafts through the market area. The spicy gingerbread comes in many different shapes and sizes, often with nuts and dried fruit inside.
Marchants sell figurines for nativity scenes, toys, warm sweaters and other specialties of Salzburg. For some local culture, take in a performance of "Salzburger Adventsingen." This traditional play features local children performing a nativity play and singing in regional dialects. In addition, the most famous Christmas carol of all time. Silent Night was composed in Oberndorf, a small town north of Salzburg. You can visit Salzburg's Silent Night Museum and enlighten yourself on the song's history or travel to Oberndorf to see where the carol was first performed.
Explore another well-known Christmas market south of Salzburg at Hellbrunn Palace Enjoy the beauty of the Baroque structure as well as view reindeer, sheep and goats wandering the grounds. Visit craft exhibitions, and admire the huge Advent calendar created from 24 of the windows on the palace facade.
The palace's fame arises mainly from its beautiful grounds and trick fountains. the elaborate grounds were meant for the pleasure of the extremely rich Prince Archbishop of Salzburg and his guests. One "trick" of the garden is a marble table with seats that are part of a hidden fountain.
Each seat, with the exception of the Archbishop's, contains a water jet. When the Archbishop held a dinner at Hellbrunn, he could turn on the water and squirt his guests. As nobody could stand up until the Archbishop did, imagine the chagrin of his guests! For a more enjoyable wet adventure, pay a visit to Alpentherme Gastein, a large spa that features six different health and adventure worlds. In winter, visitors can swim outside in the freezing temperatures and yet stay deliciously warm in the thermal water. Salzburg and the surrounding area offer lots to see, taste and touch any time of the year!
More Information
In October 1731, thousands of Salzburg citizens were forced to either reject their beliefs in God or leave the city. The thousands who refused to reject their faith fled north through a merciless Austrian winter. Over the next few years about 150 of the Salzburg exiles found their way to the British American colonies. Ten years later. in 1741, they officially founded the town of Ebenezer Georgia.
Grammar
....the Mozart Wohnhaus...welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
to provide insight into-give deeper information about something.
Sam's meeting with the famous scientist provided him insight into the latest discoveries in genetic engineering.
Ada felt that an internship at the film company would provide her greater insights into the media industry.
Vocabulary
artifact (n)-any object was used by people to do something in the past.
There are many artifacts from medieval times in this museum
fascinating (v)-极美的，迷人的或吸引人的very interested.fascinate(v)-强烈的吸引
Helena tells fascinating stores about the many places she has been and the people she has met.
*The singers fascinating performance amazed everyone present.
*The photographer took pictures of the fascinating waterfall.
ornate (adj)-装饰华丽的，繁复非凡的decorating.
The Orient Hotel has very ornate decorations from the last century.
*The ornate carvings in the church are excellent works of art.繁复非凡的雕刻
*The ornate style of the castle represents the peak of the Barogue era巴若克巅峰 palatial (adj)-由palace演生出来的，意思是像宫殿般的，富丽堂皇，伟大宏伟的
The prince lives in a palatial mansion on a hill overlooking the city.
*The palatial presidential suite costs over $5000 per night.
adorn (v)-装饰，使生色。也可用于抽象事务。decoration
Ribbons and bows adorned the little girl's dress and hair.
*The hall was adorned with beautiful paintings and mirrors.
*The director adorned the storyline in the movie with exotic settings and special effects.异国的场景，特效。
waft(v)-飘送，吹送The smell of baking bread wafted down the hallway.
*The scent of roses wafted along with the breeze.随风飘送
*The smell of freshly baked cookies wafted up from the downstairs bakery.
take in (phr. v)-We took in several Broadway plays when we went to New York.
enlighten (v)-教导，启发，启迪en-有“使如何”之意 lighten-发亮或变亮
The professor enlightened his class on the differences in the chemical makeup of the acids.
*The trip to Africa really enlightened Paul as he learned how to care about people.
*Can you enlighten me-I don't understand how to access the main computer.你可以教我吗？
nativity-talk about birth.
nativity scenes-It's about the scenes of the birth of Jesus in manger.
figurines-little, tiny, mini statues.
fortress-strong building for protect the city.
funicular-small rail cart to take people up and down with cable(heavy mettle rope)
facade (n)-face of the front of the big building.-宏伟建筑物的正面。
The beautifully designed facade of the palace needs to be redone every ten years.
*The facade of this cathedral is under renovation now.整修
*Many tourists took photos of the beautiful facade of the square.
jet (n)-喷嘴,喷口,也指喷出来的液体,喷出来的气流.
A jet of water broke through the window and flooded the house during the heavy rainfall.
*The gas jet in the oven might be jammed. It won't light.
*Jets of water kept coming out of the broken pipe. Even the street had to be closed.
advent-coming or arrival something special. Advent-refer to Jesus coming is something very special.大写“A"是表示特别的到来
chagrin (n)-懊恼，苦恼To much my chagrin, I have to say "good bye".
Everyone saw the chagrin on Michael's face when he missed the basket and caused his team to lose the game.
*Much to Ricky's chagrin, the company didn't accept his proposal.
spa (n)-After a hard day at work, Michelle and Margaret went to the spa to relax in the warm water.
强调某人很懊恼或失望用“to one's chagrin“
Chat Room
musically inclined-有音乐天赋的very good, very talented in music,
inclined-倾向于，倾斜于，演生出“个性上倾向于”
artistically inclined-有艺术天赋的
inclined to do something- want to do something. I'm inclined for a walk.想要作..
decline-polite way to tell them not to do something, 拒绝.decline (n)-下坡
in decline-down fall,drop走下坡，衰微，没落。
-----------------------
come in-not a phrase, it mean it comes in a different sizes or shapes.
The spicy gingerbread comes in many different shapes and sizes.
come in (idiom)-进入enter into a place.
come into-come into the room-enter into the room
come into money (come into a lot of money)-继承财产
come out with something-This company come out with a new product出版，推出.
come down with something- become ill.罹患疾病
---------------------------
novice-初学者，新手
amateur-业余，不是专业just for fun
professional-专业人士，职业选手。
expert（n）- 专家a person is in a special skill.
expert (adj)-需要专业技术的。A language expert, an expert surgeon.
The hills are alive with the sound of music ... and not just the hills. In Salzburg, melodies of great composer and native son Mozart (1756-91) fill the city’s churches and concert halls. Musicians perform more than 2,000 classical concerts annually, many featuring Mozart’s music. Fans can visit his birthplace, where the boy wonder composed many of his early works. All kinds of musical artifacts fill the home, which also contains an apartment that is furnished from Mozart’s time. Across the Salzach River, which runs through Salzburg, the Mozart Wohnhaus also welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
Mozart’s family moved here when he was 17. A fascinating 30-minute movie details the lives of Mozart and his interesting family. Besides Mozart, this lovely old Austrian city offers a gloriously preserved old town charming gardens, ornate churches and Europe's larges and most complete medieval castle. Hohensalzburg Fortress sits on a rock high above the river. You can hike up or ride the funicular to the 900-year-old castle. From the courtyard, enjoy impressive views of the city and then visit the palatial interior. Climb to the top of a tower for a commanding city view.
While many visitors enjoy Salzburg in the summer and flock to the Salzburg Festival Christmastime sees almost as many people come to town. In winter, skiing enthusiasts take advantage of nearby mountain resorts. Decorations adorn the town and the Christmas markets. Salzburg's most famous market, Salzburger Christkindlmarkt usually opens for business five weeks before Christmas. Groups of instrumentalists and singers entertain market-goers, and the smell of roasted almonds, hot chestnuts and Christmas pastry-Lebkuchen -wafts through the market area. The spicy gingerbread comes in many different shapes and sizes, often with nuts and dried fruit inside.
Marchants sell figurines for nativity scenes, toys, warm sweaters and other specialties of Salzburg. For some local culture, take in a performance of "Salzburger Adventsingen." This traditional play features local children performing a nativity play and singing in regional dialects. In addition, the most famous Christmas carol of all time. Silent Night was composed in Oberndorf, a small town north of Salzburg. You can visit Salzburg's Silent Night Museum and enlighten yourself on the song's history or travel to Oberndorf to see where the carol was first performed.
Explore another well-known Christmas market south of Salzburg at Hellbrunn Palace Enjoy the beauty of the Baroque structure as well as view reindeer, sheep and goats wandering the grounds. Visit craft exhibitions, and admire the huge Advent calendar created from 24 of the windows on the palace facade.
The palace's fame arises mainly from its beautiful grounds and trick fountains. the elaborate grounds were meant for the pleasure of the extremely rich Prince Archbishop of Salzburg and his guests. One "trick" of the garden is a marble table with seats that are part of a hidden fountain.
Each seat, with the exception of the Archbishop's, contains a water jet. When the Archbishop held a dinner at Hellbrunn, he could turn on the water and squirt his guests. As nobody could stand up until the Archbishop did, imagine the chagrin of his guests! For a more enjoyable wet adventure, pay a visit to Alpentherme Gastein, a large spa that features six different health and adventure worlds. In winter, visitors can swim outside in the freezing temperatures and yet stay deliciously warm in the thermal water. Salzburg and the surrounding area offer lots to see, taste and touch any time of the year!
More Information
In October 1731, thousands of Salzburg citizens were forced to either reject their beliefs in God or leave the city. The thousands who refused to reject their faith fled north through a merciless Austrian winter. Over the next few years about 150 of the Salzburg exiles found their way to the British American colonies. Ten years later. in 1741, they officially founded the town of Ebenezer Georgia.
Grammar
....the Mozart Wohnhaus...welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
to provide insight into-give deeper information about something.
Sam's meeting with the famous scientist provided him insight into the latest discoveries in genetic engineering.
Ada felt that an internship at the film company would provide her greater insights into the media industry.
Vocabulary
artifact (n)-any object was used by people to do something in the past.
There are many artifacts from medieval times in this museum
fascinating (v)-极美的，迷人的或吸引人的very interested.fascinate(v)-强烈的吸引
Helena tells fascinating stores about the many places she has been and the people she has met.
*The singers fascinating performance amazed everyone present.
*The photographer took pictures of the fascinating waterfall.
ornate (adj)-装饰华丽的，繁复非凡的decorating.
The Orient Hotel has very ornate decorations from the last century.
*The ornate carvings in the church are excellent works of art.繁复非凡的雕刻
*The ornate style of the castle represents the peak of the Barogue era巴若克巅峰 palatial (adj)-由palace演生出来的，意思是像宫殿般的，富丽堂皇，伟大宏伟的
The prince lives in a palatial mansion on a hill overlooking the city.
*The palatial presidential suite costs over $5000 per night.
adorn (v)-装饰，使生色。也可用于抽象事务。decoration
Ribbons and bows adorned the little girl's dress and hair.
*The hall was adorned with beautiful paintings and mirrors.
*The director adorned the storyline in the movie with exotic settings and special effects.异国的场景，特效。
waft(v)-飘送，吹送The smell of baking bread wafted down the hallway.
*The scent of roses wafted along with the breeze.随风飘送
*The smell of freshly baked cookies wafted up from the downstairs bakery.
take in (phr. v)-We took in several Broadway plays when we went to New York.
enlighten (v)-教导，启发，启迪en-有“使如何”之意 lighten-发亮或变亮
The professor enlightened his class on the differences in the chemical makeup of the acids.
*The trip to Africa really enlightened Paul as he learned how to care about people.
*Can you enlighten me-I don't understand how to access the main computer.你可以教我吗？
nativity-talk about birth.
nativity scenes-It's about the scenes of the birth of Jesus in manger.
figurines-little, tiny, mini statues.
fortress-strong building for protect the city.
funicular-small rail cart to take people up and down with cable(heavy mettle rope)
facade (n)-face of the front of the big building.-宏伟建筑物的正面。
The beautifully designed facade of the palace needs to be redone every ten years.
*The facade of this cathedral is under renovation now.整修
*Many tourists took photos of the beautiful facade of the square.
jet (n)-喷嘴,喷口,也指喷出来的液体,喷出来的气流.
A jet of water broke through the window and flooded the house during the heavy rainfall.
*The gas jet in the oven might be jammed. It won't light.
*Jets of water kept coming out of the broken pipe. Even the street had to be closed.
advent-coming or arrival something special. Advent-refer to Jesus coming is something very special.大写“A"是表示特别的到来
chagrin (n)-懊恼，苦恼To much my chagrin, I have to say "good bye".
Everyone saw the chagrin on Michael's face when he missed the basket and caused his team to lose the game.
*Much to Ricky's chagrin, the company didn't accept his proposal.
spa (n)-After a hard day at work, Michelle and Margaret went to the spa to relax in the warm water.
强调某人很懊恼或失望用“to one's chagrin“
Chat Room
musically inclined-有音乐天赋的very good, very talented in music,
inclined-倾向于，倾斜于，演生出“个性上倾向于”
artistically inclined-有艺术天赋的
inclined to do something- want to do something. I'm inclined for a walk.想要作..
decline-polite way to tell them not to do something, 拒绝.decline (n)-下坡
in decline-down fall,drop走下坡，衰微，没落。
-----------------------
come in-not a phrase, it mean it comes in a different sizes or shapes.
The spicy gingerbread comes in many different shapes and sizes.
come in (idiom)-进入enter into a place.
come into-come into the room-enter into the room
come into money (come into a lot of money)-继承财产
come out with something-This company come out with a new product出版，推出.
come down with something- become ill.罹患疾病
---------------------------
novice-初学者，新手
amateur-业余，不是专业just for fun
professional-专业人士，职业选手。
expert（n）- 专家a person is in a special skill.
expert (adj)-需要专业技术的。A language expert, an expert surgeon.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Boxing Day
禮盒節On the day after Christmas, many countries celebrate a long tradition of giving to the needy 透過扶弱濟貧的方式來慶祝禮盒節吧Celebrating a tradition of giving to the needy by Beth Bowyer Wei
Today, people who live in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and other Commonwealth countries celebrate Boxing Day.
While people disagree about its exact history, Boxing Day celebrates the tradition of giving to the less fortunate. The origins of this holiday probably date back to the Middle Ages. At that time throughout Western Europe, Dec. 26 was a time to give gifts to those of a lower social class. Churches opened their donation boxes and distributed the money to poor people. Likewise, masters gave boxes containing practical gifts to their servants, who had to work on Christmas Day. Dec. 26 was a holiday for servants to visit their families.
In English tradition,shopkeepers such as carpenters and blacksmiths, commonly kept clay "Christmas boxes" in their stores. Customers placed donations in the boxes. One Dec. 26, the shopkeepers smashed the boxes and shared the money with their employees.
Nowadays, people celebrate the day by relaxing with family shopping or playing sports. And some-in keeping with the original purpose of the holiday-spend the day volunteering or helping thoe in need.
Grammar
And some-in keeping with the original purpose of the holiday-spend the day volanteering or helping those in need.
in keeping with-conforming to
The fact that Mr. Holt has a vacation home in Switzeriand and in Hawaii is in keeping wigh his billionaire lifestyle.
In keeping with tradition, Sarah's mother makes a pumpkin pie for thanksgiving every year.
Vocabulary
distribute (v)-分派,分配,The secretary distributed paychecks to all of the employees.
*The company's magazines were distributed to all departments today.
*Food and supplies were distributed to each household located in the flooded area.
blacksmith (n)-A blacksmith uses iron and steel to create tools, furniture and other metal objects.铁匠
smash (v)-打坏,猛击
Jimmy smashed his piggy bank and gathered up all the coins that were inside.
*He got really angry and smashed all the things on his desk.
*He smashed his finger with the hammer as he was hanging the picture.
nowadays (adv)-现在,时下.Nowadays, mobile devices are part of everyday life.
*Teenagers nowadays are less diligent than ones from the past.
*Nowadays, people don't write letters anymore. They write e-mails instead.
fortunate (adj)-幸运 means someone has other people don't have.
Chat Room
Boxing day-the day after the Christmas mainly is to helping the needed people.
St. Stephen's day-church holiday
martyr-;烈士,殉道者.
Christmas carol (song)
Today, people who live in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and other Commonwealth countries celebrate Boxing Day.
While people disagree about its exact history, Boxing Day celebrates the tradition of giving to the less fortunate. The origins of this holiday probably date back to the Middle Ages. At that time throughout Western Europe, Dec. 26 was a time to give gifts to those of a lower social class. Churches opened their donation boxes and distributed the money to poor people. Likewise, masters gave boxes containing practical gifts to their servants, who had to work on Christmas Day. Dec. 26 was a holiday for servants to visit their families.
In English tradition,shopkeepers such as carpenters and blacksmiths, commonly kept clay "Christmas boxes" in their stores. Customers placed donations in the boxes. One Dec. 26, the shopkeepers smashed the boxes and shared the money with their employees.
Nowadays, people celebrate the day by relaxing with family shopping or playing sports. And some-in keeping with the original purpose of the holiday-spend the day volunteering or helping thoe in need.
Grammar
And some-in keeping with the original purpose of the holiday-spend the day volanteering or helping those in need.
in keeping with-conforming to
The fact that Mr. Holt has a vacation home in Switzeriand and in Hawaii is in keeping wigh his billionaire lifestyle.
In keeping with tradition, Sarah's mother makes a pumpkin pie for thanksgiving every year.
Vocabulary
distribute (v)-分派,分配,The secretary distributed paychecks to all of the employees.
*The company's magazines were distributed to all departments today.
*Food and supplies were distributed to each household located in the flooded area.
blacksmith (n)-A blacksmith uses iron and steel to create tools, furniture and other metal objects.铁匠
smash (v)-打坏,猛击
Jimmy smashed his piggy bank and gathered up all the coins that were inside.
*He got really angry and smashed all the things on his desk.
*He smashed his finger with the hammer as he was hanging the picture.
nowadays (adv)-现在,时下.Nowadays, mobile devices are part of everyday life.
*Teenagers nowadays are less diligent than ones from the past.
*Nowadays, people don't write letters anymore. They write e-mails instead.
fortunate (adj)-幸运 means someone has other people don't have.
Chat Room
Boxing day-the day after the Christmas mainly is to helping the needed people.
St. Stephen's day-church holiday
martyr-;烈士,殉道者.
Christmas carol (song)
Christmas Lights
聖誕燈Lights have lit up Christmas trees for five centuries聖誕燈的歷史淵源 The history behind Christmas lights by Lisa Holl Chang
The first Christmas light was a star. The story of Jesus’ birth tells of a star that guided the Wise Men to his birthplace. Today, people use lights to celebrate that first Christmas.
Some believe that Martin Luther, a German priest, was the first to put lights on trees. About five centuries ago, he was admiring the stars. The outdoor scene of stars and evergreen trees inspired him to decorate his Christmas tree with candles. Soon, households across Germany were doing the same.
While beautiful, the candles tended to cause fires. In 1882 Edward Johnson, who worked for Thomas Edison, got an idea. He put a string of 80 small electric lights on his Christmas tree. The tree was a huge attraction, and electric lights became a trend among the rich. However, they didn't replace candles until the 1930s. By then, electricity was widespread and people could afford the lights.
Today, Christmas lights decorate more than just trees. The lights twinkle on homes, stores, churches and even light poles. The festive lights remind people of the season's meaning and joy.
Grammar
While beautiful, the candles tended to cause fires.
while-at the same time.
Please have a seat while I get you some coffee.
although-
Although they're beautiful, the candles tended to cause fires.
While the doctor thinks it's better to have the operation, Paul believes his body is strong enough to recover on its own.
While she may not like her schedule this semester, Susan does enjoy her classes very much.
Vocabulary
celebrate (v)-Even though Sam's birthday was on Thursday, we're going to celebrate it on Saturday.
household (n)-家庭或一家人,(adj)家用的
There are five people in our household, including my grandma, parents, sister and me.
*Each household in the community donated money to help renovate the playground.修建,重建,重整. 游乐场
a good household appliance.
tend (v)-倾向于,容易
Mary tends to make excuses when she has done something wrong.
*We tend to have cold winters and humid summers in this area.
twinkle (v)-闪耀,闪烁,Look at all the lovely stars twinkling in the night sky.
*The stars twinkled in the night sky.
*My daughters eyes twinkled with delight when I mentioned that I will take her out for pizza.
Chat room
the rich-(even left out the "people") it means rich people.
electric lights became a trend among the rich.
the rich-"the" rich to describe a group of people. the oppressed, the homeless, the lonely, the poor, the educated...
rich here is 集合形容词,要用单数动词.但集合名词则要用复数动词.
the rich have to pay more taxes.
dozen-a dozen of eggs "is" not enough.
A dozen "are" coming- a dozen of people are coming.
The first Christmas light was a star. The story of Jesus’ birth tells of a star that guided the Wise Men to his birthplace. Today, people use lights to celebrate that first Christmas.
Some believe that Martin Luther, a German priest, was the first to put lights on trees. About five centuries ago, he was admiring the stars. The outdoor scene of stars and evergreen trees inspired him to decorate his Christmas tree with candles. Soon, households across Germany were doing the same.
While beautiful, the candles tended to cause fires. In 1882 Edward Johnson, who worked for Thomas Edison, got an idea. He put a string of 80 small electric lights on his Christmas tree. The tree was a huge attraction, and electric lights became a trend among the rich. However, they didn't replace candles until the 1930s. By then, electricity was widespread and people could afford the lights.
Today, Christmas lights decorate more than just trees. The lights twinkle on homes, stores, churches and even light poles. The festive lights remind people of the season's meaning and joy.
Grammar
While beautiful, the candles tended to cause fires.
while-at the same time.
Please have a seat while I get you some coffee.
although-
Although they're beautiful, the candles tended to cause fires.
While the doctor thinks it's better to have the operation, Paul believes his body is strong enough to recover on its own.
While she may not like her schedule this semester, Susan does enjoy her classes very much.
Vocabulary
celebrate (v)-Even though Sam's birthday was on Thursday, we're going to celebrate it on Saturday.
household (n)-家庭或一家人,(adj)家用的
There are five people in our household, including my grandma, parents, sister and me.
*Each household in the community donated money to help renovate the playground.修建,重建,重整. 游乐场
a good household appliance.
tend (v)-倾向于,容易
Mary tends to make excuses when she has done something wrong.
*We tend to have cold winters and humid summers in this area.
twinkle (v)-闪耀,闪烁,Look at all the lovely stars twinkling in the night sky.
*The stars twinkled in the night sky.
*My daughters eyes twinkled with delight when I mentioned that I will take her out for pizza.
Chat room
the rich-(even left out the "people") it means rich people.
electric lights became a trend among the rich.
the rich-"the" rich to describe a group of people. the oppressed, the homeless, the lonely, the poor, the educated...
rich here is 集合形容词,要用单数动词.但集合名词则要用复数动词.
the rich have to pay more taxes.
dozen-a dozen of eggs "is" not enough.
A dozen "are" coming- a dozen of people are coming.
A story about Jesus
December 25, 2009
The one in the Bible, about a baby to be born,His name is Jesus. He loved us so much that He came down to earth from heaven to save us and help us from our wrong doing. He died on the cross and paid the big price for us. His resurrection brought us eternal life, and His forgiveness gave us peace and hope, the peace He gave is that the world can not take away, the hope is that the hope of living and the hope of glory.
Jesus came had changed the world and make you and I, our lives so wonderful.
The one in the Bible, about a baby to be born,His name is Jesus. He loved us so much that He came down to earth from heaven to save us and help us from our wrong doing. He died on the cross and paid the big price for us. His resurrection brought us eternal life, and His forgiveness gave us peace and hope, the peace He gave is that the world can not take away, the hope is that the hope of living and the hope of glory.
Jesus came had changed the world and make you and I, our lives so wonderful.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
The First Christmas
史上第一個聖誕節The humble birth that changed the world
by Retold from the Gospel of Luke
About 2,000 years ago, the birth of a baby in Israel changed the world. At that time, Rome ruled the territory, and the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus declared that a census should be taken throughout the Roman world. That meant everyone had to go to their ancestral homes to register.
A couple from Nazareth, Joseph and Mary made the three-day journey to Bethlehem to be counted. When the weary couple arrived, they searched in vain for a place to stay, but every inn was full. And to make matters worse, Mary was expecting. Finally, a kind innkeeper took pity on them and allowed them to sleep in his stable.
There, Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son she named Jesus. She wrapped him in cloths and laid him in a manger. That same night in a nearby field, an angel from God appeared to some shepherds. How terrified they were! But the angel told them not to be afraid and that he had good new for all people. He told them that in Bethlehem a Savior had been born: Christ the Lord. And so the shepherds went and found Jesus just as the angel had said-the Son of God!
That night, the birth of Jesus changed history and the lives of millions, allowing people to know God and the forgiveness He freely offers.
Grammar
throughout-every where
You looked throughout the entire house but couldn't find them.
I could be heard throughout the entire neighborhood.
Vocabulary
census (n)-人口普查
The city took a census last year and found out that its population had doubled.
cloth (n)- 布料,当可数複数名词时加"S"-小布条或做某种用途的布料.
The cloth that she chose to make her dress out of was brightly colored.
*Since the new curtains are not ready yet, we hung some cloth to cover the windows.
*Jen bought new white towels and cloths for her bathroom.
terrify (v)-使害怕,使惊吓,常用被动式.令人感到很害怕.
The children were terrified of their teacher because he yelled at them all the time.
*The lawyer tried to terrify us with all those legal terms, but didn't succeed.
*I was terrified by the sight of the car accident.景象
in vain (idiom)-徒劳无功,徒然,无用的 work for nothing, no success.
Robert tried to get Barb to go to the dance with him, but it was in vain because she went with Sam.
*We tried in vain to contact George. He probably turned off his cell-phone accidentally
*I apologized to Brenda in vain. She's still angry.
Chat Room
Mary was expecting- with no object it means Mary was pregnant.有喜了,怀孕了
expecting-原本是期盼,期望但这是指预产,怀孕
born-action is to baby, not to mother. baby is born. bear的过去式要用被动语态.小孩被..生下来.
Mary having a baby,-生小孩, ,不是"有小孩". Mary delivered a baby
She will have he baby 不能说She born a baby.
by Retold from the Gospel of Luke
About 2,000 years ago, the birth of a baby in Israel changed the world. At that time, Rome ruled the territory, and the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus declared that a census should be taken throughout the Roman world. That meant everyone had to go to their ancestral homes to register.
A couple from Nazareth, Joseph and Mary made the three-day journey to Bethlehem to be counted. When the weary couple arrived, they searched in vain for a place to stay, but every inn was full. And to make matters worse, Mary was expecting. Finally, a kind innkeeper took pity on them and allowed them to sleep in his stable.
There, Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son she named Jesus. She wrapped him in cloths and laid him in a manger. That same night in a nearby field, an angel from God appeared to some shepherds. How terrified they were! But the angel told them not to be afraid and that he had good new for all people. He told them that in Bethlehem a Savior had been born: Christ the Lord. And so the shepherds went and found Jesus just as the angel had said-the Son of God!
That night, the birth of Jesus changed history and the lives of millions, allowing people to know God and the forgiveness He freely offers.
Grammar
throughout-every where
You looked throughout the entire house but couldn't find them.
I could be heard throughout the entire neighborhood.
Vocabulary
census (n)-人口普查
The city took a census last year and found out that its population had doubled.
cloth (n)- 布料,当可数複数名词时加"S"-小布条或做某种用途的布料.
The cloth that she chose to make her dress out of was brightly colored.
*Since the new curtains are not ready yet, we hung some cloth to cover the windows.
*Jen bought new white towels and cloths for her bathroom.
terrify (v)-使害怕,使惊吓,常用被动式.令人感到很害怕.
The children were terrified of their teacher because he yelled at them all the time.
*The lawyer tried to terrify us with all those legal terms, but didn't succeed.
*I was terrified by the sight of the car accident.景象
in vain (idiom)-徒劳无功,徒然,无用的 work for nothing, no success.
Robert tried to get Barb to go to the dance with him, but it was in vain because she went with Sam.
*We tried in vain to contact George. He probably turned off his cell-phone accidentally
*I apologized to Brenda in vain. She's still angry.
Chat Room
Mary was expecting- with no object it means Mary was pregnant.有喜了,怀孕了
expecting-原本是期盼,期望但这是指预产,怀孕
born-action is to baby, not to mother. baby is born. bear的过去式要用被动语态.小孩被..生下来.
Mary having a baby,-生小孩, ,不是"有小孩". Mary delivered a baby
She will have he baby 不能说She born a baby.
Monday, December 21, 2009
How to Choose the Perfect Present
Shopping gets easier with these six gift-giving tips 送出完美禮物的六條線索Make gift giving easier with these six, simple tips 學會這六條送禮的訣竅，上街挑禮物變得輕而易舉by Pamela Osment
Birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas all offer great chances for giving gifts. But choosing the perfect present for a friend or family member can sometimes be difficult!
Here are six tips to make your gift giving easier:
# Watch for ideas
Has your friend been looking at the same earrings for months but hasn’t bought them? You already know she likes them, so why not buy them and surprise her!
# Listen for hints
Get into the habit of carrying a small notebook. The next time someone talks about a favorite CD or book, write yourself a note.
# Consider their hobbies
Your dad plays sudoku and would enjoy a new gameboard but won't get one for himself. He'll love your thoughtful gift thought, and enjoy his hobby even more.
# Notice the things they collect
If your sister collects teapots, keep a watch out for a nice one. Then buy it for her set.
#Check their to-do list
Maybe your mother needs help running some errands or cleaning the house. you could give her a printed coupon promising to do those tasks.
#Plan and shop early
Don't wait until the last minute Start looking in January for the perfect gifts for those special people in your life.
Grammar
Get into the habit of carrying a small notebook.
to get into the habit of=to learn to get used to doing something.
Learn to get used to carrying a small notebook.
Vincent needs to get into the habit of drinking eight glasses of water every day.
Mark just moved to Asia a month ago; he hasn't gotten into the habit of taking off his shoes before he steps into a house.
Charlie is always lying; he needs to break that habit.
Lora is trying to break the habit of biting her nails.
to break a habit of something.
Vocabulary
present (n)- Rita's favorite birthday present was the new dress she got from her sister.
hint (n)-暗示I asked for some hints, but I skill can't guess what the surprise is.
*The host was looking at his watch so I knew I should take the hint and get going.
*Dad dropped me a hint to stop talking by coughing.藉由咳嗽
thoughtful (adj)-体贴,贴心的,细心的,考虑周到的 thought-思想
It was thoughtful of you to take flowers to my grandmother.
*The thoughtful gesture of cooking dinner for Mom really made her happy.行动表现
*It was so thoughtful of you to buy me coffee!
errand (n)-短程的差事如上银行,邮局,洗衣店等等的锁事.
I ran some errands after work and got home later than usual.
*I'll meet you at 2pm. I have some errands to run first.
*Running errands for the boss is part of secretary's job.
Chat Room
window-shopping-not actually buy anything just look at things through the display window.
shop around-compare of the price, fine the best bargain货比三家,找到最划算的价格
hang out-relax and have fun together with someone.聊天打屁.
Joe - "coffee", another name for coffee. We hanged out at the mall and have a cup of Joe.
Birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas all offer great chances for giving gifts. But choosing the perfect present for a friend or family member can sometimes be difficult!
Here are six tips to make your gift giving easier:
# Watch for ideas
Has your friend been looking at the same earrings for months but hasn’t bought them? You already know she likes them, so why not buy them and surprise her!
# Listen for hints
Get into the habit of carrying a small notebook. The next time someone talks about a favorite CD or book, write yourself a note.
# Consider their hobbies
Your dad plays sudoku and would enjoy a new gameboard but won't get one for himself. He'll love your thoughtful gift thought, and enjoy his hobby even more.
# Notice the things they collect
If your sister collects teapots, keep a watch out for a nice one. Then buy it for her set.
#Check their to-do list
Maybe your mother needs help running some errands or cleaning the house. you could give her a printed coupon promising to do those tasks.
#Plan and shop early
Don't wait until the last minute Start looking in January for the perfect gifts for those special people in your life.
Grammar
Get into the habit of carrying a small notebook.
to get into the habit of=to learn to get used to doing something.
Learn to get used to carrying a small notebook.
Vincent needs to get into the habit of drinking eight glasses of water every day.
Mark just moved to Asia a month ago; he hasn't gotten into the habit of taking off his shoes before he steps into a house.
Charlie is always lying; he needs to break that habit.
Lora is trying to break the habit of biting her nails.
to break a habit of something.
Vocabulary
present (n)- Rita's favorite birthday present was the new dress she got from her sister.
hint (n)-暗示I asked for some hints, but I skill can't guess what the surprise is.
*The host was looking at his watch so I knew I should take the hint and get going.
*Dad dropped me a hint to stop talking by coughing.藉由咳嗽
thoughtful (adj)-体贴,贴心的,细心的,考虑周到的 thought-思想
It was thoughtful of you to take flowers to my grandmother.
*The thoughtful gesture of cooking dinner for Mom really made her happy.行动表现
*It was so thoughtful of you to buy me coffee!
errand (n)-短程的差事如上银行,邮局,洗衣店等等的锁事.
I ran some errands after work and got home later than usual.
*I'll meet you at 2pm. I have some errands to run first.
*Running errands for the boss is part of secretary's job.
Chat Room
window-shopping-not actually buy anything just look at things through the display window.
shop around-compare of the price, fine the best bargain货比三家,找到最划算的价格
hang out-relax and have fun together with someone.聊天打屁.
Joe - "coffee", another name for coffee. We hanged out at the mall and have a cup of Joe.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Gingerbread Houses
薑餅屋A popular, classic holiday treat
You can cook with it. You can make candy from it. You can put it into drinks or take it as medicine. Ginger has many uses, but none as beautiful as when it is used in a gingerbread house.
Past and present
Ginger – the key ingredient in gingerbread and the houses themselves – has a long history. It is believed that ginger was used as early as 2,000 B.C. in China. Gingerbread houses were first written about during the 15th century. But it was the 19th-century fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel” that started a trend. As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
One example occurred in the town of Belleville, Ill., in the 1850s. As large numbers of German immigrants moved there, many brought along their gingerbread-house recipes. Today, during the holidays, Belleville hosts a "Gingerbread Walk" through its downtown area. Along the path, shop owners display beautifully made gingerbread houses and other gingerbread creations. The event allows visitors and locals alike to enjoy Belleville's tastiest tradition.
Grammar
As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
to make one's way =to go in a certain direction with some effort.
With all these shoppers in the store, it's hard for Martha to make her way to the cashier's counter.
It was hard for Paula to make her way down the airplane aisle while holding her baby and pulling a carry-on suitcase.
Vocabulary
ginger (n)-My mom puts a little ginger in her cookies to make them taste good.
ingredient (n)-烹调的原料Cheese is a key ingredient for many Mexican dishes.
*The ingredients of this cake include flour, eggs, sugar and milk.
*Mutual understanding is a key ingredient for a good marriage.要素,不可或缺的东西 immigrant (n)-移入的移民 im－有进来的意思 ,Emigrant-移出去的移民
Many Italian immigrants settled in the northeastern part of the U.S.
*Many Italian immigrants live in Little Italy in Manhattan, New York.
*The illegal immigrants will be deported today.
creation(n)-当可数名词是"创作的作品，不可数名词是指"创造，创作"
"Paul's chocolate creations were unique and delicious too!
*Picasso's art creations were copied and studied by many people.摸仿和研究
*The creation of this symphony took over 5 years.这交响乐曲的创作
construct (v)-to build, 建造，构成，
They have constructed a newer, wider bridge across the river.
*The engineers spent years constructing this building.
*Brenda is still constructing her speech.构思演讲稿
*The construction of this bridge is almost an impossible mission.建盖这桥
ton (n)- 顿，重量单位，众多的意思You'll need a ton of bricks to build a wall that long.
creative (adj)-创造力 The teacher said my story was the most creative and interesting.
kit (n)-组，成套的，成套的工具或配件
The birthday party kit has everything you'll need for the party games and prizes.
*Dad bought a tool kit but never once used it.
*I put a first-aid kit in the trunk of my car.
*All the art kits are on sale for the beginning of the new semester.美术用品组
edible-need to be eaten可食用的The chef used some edible flowers to decorate the dessert.
*The homeless men and women looked through the garbage trying to find something edible.
Chat Room
ginger-薑，也可是女孩名．
ginger ale-is a kind of soda with ginger flavour．ale-light bear (England)
gingerbread cookies, or gingerbread man (the cookie shape is like man) both are can be soft or hard taste.
gingerbread snap is always hard taste.
gingerly (adverb) - take great care, nothing to do with ginger.小心翼翼，极为谨慎-
---------------
Smell-闻起来The cake smells有味道的（负面的it means that cake is really bad
smell bad=smelly, bad smell。
smelly socks/smelly trash-臭袜子/臭垃圾
Stinky tofu臭豆腐 has really bad smell.
fragrant (something with pleasing smell) is opposite of smelly
fragrant spices/fragrant candles
scented-有香味的rose-scented lotion玫瑰香味的乳液。
scent-香气，香味，气味
unscented-没有气味（香味）的
You can cook with it. You can make candy from it. You can put it into drinks or take it as medicine. Ginger has many uses, but none as beautiful as when it is used in a gingerbread house.
Past and present
Ginger – the key ingredient in gingerbread and the houses themselves – has a long history. It is believed that ginger was used as early as 2,000 B.C. in China. Gingerbread houses were first written about during the 15th century. But it was the 19th-century fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel” that started a trend. As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
One example occurred in the town of Belleville, Ill., in the 1850s. As large numbers of German immigrants moved there, many brought along their gingerbread-house recipes. Today, during the holidays, Belleville hosts a "Gingerbread Walk" through its downtown area. Along the path, shop owners display beautifully made gingerbread houses and other gingerbread creations. The event allows visitors and locals alike to enjoy Belleville's tastiest tradition.
Grammar
As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
to make one's way =to go in a certain direction with some effort.
With all these shoppers in the store, it's hard for Martha to make her way to the cashier's counter.
It was hard for Paula to make her way down the airplane aisle while holding her baby and pulling a carry-on suitcase.
Vocabulary
ginger (n)-My mom puts a little ginger in her cookies to make them taste good.
ingredient (n)-烹调的原料Cheese is a key ingredient for many Mexican dishes.
*The ingredients of this cake include flour, eggs, sugar and milk.
*Mutual understanding is a key ingredient for a good marriage.要素,不可或缺的东西 immigrant (n)-移入的移民 im－有进来的意思 ,Emigrant-移出去的移民
Many Italian immigrants settled in the northeastern part of the U.S.
*Many Italian immigrants live in Little Italy in Manhattan, New York.
*The illegal immigrants will be deported today.
creation(n)-当可数名词是"创作的作品，不可数名词是指"创造，创作"
"Paul's chocolate creations were unique and delicious too!
*Picasso's art creations were copied and studied by many people.摸仿和研究
*The creation of this symphony took over 5 years.这交响乐曲的创作
construct (v)-to build, 建造，构成，
They have constructed a newer, wider bridge across the river.
*The engineers spent years constructing this building.
*Brenda is still constructing her speech.构思演讲稿
*The construction of this bridge is almost an impossible mission.建盖这桥
ton (n)- 顿，重量单位，众多的意思You'll need a ton of bricks to build a wall that long.
creative (adj)-创造力 The teacher said my story was the most creative and interesting.
kit (n)-组，成套的，成套的工具或配件
The birthday party kit has everything you'll need for the party games and prizes.
*Dad bought a tool kit but never once used it.
*I put a first-aid kit in the trunk of my car.
*All the art kits are on sale for the beginning of the new semester.美术用品组
edible-need to be eaten可食用的The chef used some edible flowers to decorate the dessert.
*The homeless men and women looked through the garbage trying to find something edible.
Chat Room
ginger-薑，也可是女孩名．
ginger ale-is a kind of soda with ginger flavour．ale-light bear (England)
gingerbread cookies, or gingerbread man (the cookie shape is like man) both are can be soft or hard taste.
gingerbread snap is always hard taste.
gingerly (adverb) - take great care, nothing to do with ginger.小心翼翼，极为谨慎-
---------------
Smell-闻起来The cake smells有味道的（负面的it means that cake is really bad
smell bad=smelly, bad smell。
smelly socks/smelly trash-臭袜子/臭垃圾
Stinky tofu臭豆腐 has really bad smell.
fragrant (something with pleasing smell) is opposite of smelly
fragrant spices/fragrant candles
scented-有香味的rose-scented lotion玫瑰香味的乳液。
scent-香气，香味，气味
unscented-没有气味（香味）的
Monday, December 14, 2009
The Terrafugia Transition
You can fly and drive this vehicle!乘飛天車翱翔天際
The airplane you can fly or drive by Simon Stopps
Are you sick of commutes to the airport? Exhausted by the search for airport parking? Tired of trying to find ground transportation at your destination? A flying car may be just what you need. While the concept of flying cars has been around for decades, the cars themselves have never really caught on. Now, the Massachusetts-based company Terrafugia is changing that.
The company recently received publicity from around the world with the introduction of the Transition. A true hybrid, the Transition combines the abilities of an automobile with those of a small aircraft. However, the Transition doesn't require users to drive an airplane down the street. Instead, it can be converted from aircraft to road mode in less than 30 seconds. By entering a PIN number, pilots can make the wings fold against the side of the vehicle. Power then moves from the propeller to the front wheels. Drivers who wish to fly simply reverse the process before taking off.
One look at the Transition tells you that, at heart, it really is an airplane. In fact, Terrafugia doesn't call the Transition a "flying car" at all. Instead, the company uses the term "roadable aircraft." Like other airplanes, the Transition has wings, a tail and a propeller. It is powered by an aircraft engine and has an optional parachute. More importantly, you need a pilot's license to fly it.
Still, the Transition is also very much a car. Like other cars, it has a steering wheel, four wheels and crash protection. It runs on normal premium auto gasoline, and you can't drive it unless you have a driver's license, with an expected price of $194,000 and seating limited to two, the Transition won't replace airlines or family cars any time soon. but it does provide a whole new range of travel choices. Transition drivers will no longer be confined to land. Moreover, if bad weather prevents a flight, Transition pilots can always just drive home.
Grammar
Still, the Transition is also very much a car.
very much a....it means something there is a great degree or amount of certain quality..
very much a + noun
Although my friends think this sculpture is ugly, I think it's very much a masterpiece.
Paul is very much a natural leader and enjoys coordinating team projects.
Vocabulary
commute (n)-通车Trina has a two-hour commute to work each day.
catch on (idiom)-流行 become popular
The idea of riding bicycles to work is really starting to catch on.
*PDA cellphones caught on really fast once they were invented.
*The new user-friendly software will probably catch on very soon.
publicity(n)-get a lot of attention through TV, radio and Internet.
The store has created lots of publicity because of its excellent customer service.
mode (n)-type, way,method.
Michelle changed her cell phone's setting to silent mode during the meeting.
transition-change, from one place to another过度阶段，转换，变革. trans-越过，通过
*The Transition from childhood to adulthood can be very confusing for teenagers.
People expect a smooth transition to a full democracy.
hybrid- combine two things混合物，合成物，也可以是混种的动物或植物．
This car is a hybrid which uses both gasoline and natural gas.
*This kind of tomato is a large and sweet hybrid.
parachute (n)- 降落伞
Don't forget to open your parachute when you jump out of a plane.
steering wheel (n)-方向盘
The video game lets you use the steering wheel to control where you are going.
premium (adj)－high quality and a bid more expensive.高级的，优质的
My aunt gave me a premium membership to the health spa! 贵宾会员卡
*This premium beef costs twice the price of regular beef.
*The house is located on a premium site. 高级区（地段）
confine (v)-kept in one place or belongs to specific area.限制，局限，拘禁
We usually confine the kids to the backyard because we don't want to play in the street. 局限在某地方或某情形要用"to".
*Please confine your remarks to our private discussion. 你个人的意见
*He was confined to bed for months due to his injuries.
optional-可选择的，非常有弹性的．option-选择
When buying a new car, adding on a GPS system is optional.
*Math class is compulsory for all students, but French and art are optional.必修课
Chat Room
sick-
Are you sick of commutes to the airport?
sick-tired, or
to be sick of something-not bear any longer 受不了的意思
I'm sick of noise 受不了噪音
sick from something-因什么而生病身体不舒服He got sick from the food he ate.
sick of = tired of=feel bore, same thing over and over.厌烦 ，厌倦
fed up with something=非常受不了的意思．can't stand with something. face something you don't like for a long period of time, sick and tire of something
-------------
able-
verb +able (suffix) -means is able to..., is okay to...
roadable-is able to move on the road.
washable-is okay to wash with water．
recyclable/rechargeable/microwaveable/searchable/acceptable/ understandable/rejoiceable...可回收／可充电／可微波／可搜寻／可接受／可了解／可乐的
(suffix)字尾附加字 "able' for any action done with something else --
The airplane you can fly or drive by Simon Stopps
Are you sick of commutes to the airport? Exhausted by the search for airport parking? Tired of trying to find ground transportation at your destination? A flying car may be just what you need. While the concept of flying cars has been around for decades, the cars themselves have never really caught on. Now, the Massachusetts-based company Terrafugia is changing that.
The company recently received publicity from around the world with the introduction of the Transition. A true hybrid, the Transition combines the abilities of an automobile with those of a small aircraft. However, the Transition doesn't require users to drive an airplane down the street. Instead, it can be converted from aircraft to road mode in less than 30 seconds. By entering a PIN number, pilots can make the wings fold against the side of the vehicle. Power then moves from the propeller to the front wheels. Drivers who wish to fly simply reverse the process before taking off.
One look at the Transition tells you that, at heart, it really is an airplane. In fact, Terrafugia doesn't call the Transition a "flying car" at all. Instead, the company uses the term "roadable aircraft." Like other airplanes, the Transition has wings, a tail and a propeller. It is powered by an aircraft engine and has an optional parachute. More importantly, you need a pilot's license to fly it.
Still, the Transition is also very much a car. Like other cars, it has a steering wheel, four wheels and crash protection. It runs on normal premium auto gasoline, and you can't drive it unless you have a driver's license, with an expected price of $194,000 and seating limited to two, the Transition won't replace airlines or family cars any time soon. but it does provide a whole new range of travel choices. Transition drivers will no longer be confined to land. Moreover, if bad weather prevents a flight, Transition pilots can always just drive home.
Grammar
Still, the Transition is also very much a car.
very much a....it means something there is a great degree or amount of certain quality..
very much a + noun
Although my friends think this sculpture is ugly, I think it's very much a masterpiece.
Paul is very much a natural leader and enjoys coordinating team projects.
Vocabulary
commute (n)-通车Trina has a two-hour commute to work each day.
catch on (idiom)-流行 become popular
The idea of riding bicycles to work is really starting to catch on.
*PDA cellphones caught on really fast once they were invented.
*The new user-friendly software will probably catch on very soon.
publicity(n)-get a lot of attention through TV, radio and Internet.
The store has created lots of publicity because of its excellent customer service.
mode (n)-type, way,method.
Michelle changed her cell phone's setting to silent mode during the meeting.
transition-change, from one place to another过度阶段，转换，变革. trans-越过，通过
*The Transition from childhood to adulthood can be very confusing for teenagers.
People expect a smooth transition to a full democracy.
hybrid- combine two things混合物，合成物，也可以是混种的动物或植物．
This car is a hybrid which uses both gasoline and natural gas.
*This kind of tomato is a large and sweet hybrid.
parachute (n)- 降落伞
Don't forget to open your parachute when you jump out of a plane.
steering wheel (n)-方向盘
The video game lets you use the steering wheel to control where you are going.
premium (adj)－high quality and a bid more expensive.高级的，优质的
My aunt gave me a premium membership to the health spa! 贵宾会员卡
*This premium beef costs twice the price of regular beef.
*The house is located on a premium site. 高级区（地段）
confine (v)-kept in one place or belongs to specific area.限制，局限，拘禁
We usually confine the kids to the backyard because we don't want to play in the street. 局限在某地方或某情形要用"to".
*Please confine your remarks to our private discussion. 你个人的意见
*He was confined to bed for months due to his injuries.
optional-可选择的，非常有弹性的．option-选择
When buying a new car, adding on a GPS system is optional.
*Math class is compulsory for all students, but French and art are optional.必修课
Chat Room
sick-
Are you sick of commutes to the airport?
sick-tired, or
to be sick of something-not bear any longer 受不了的意思
I'm sick of noise 受不了噪音
sick from something-因什么而生病身体不舒服He got sick from the food he ate.
sick of = tired of=feel bore, same thing over and over.厌烦 ，厌倦
fed up with something=非常受不了的意思．can't stand with something. face something you don't like for a long period of time, sick and tire of something
-------------
able-
verb +able (suffix) -means is able to..., is okay to...
roadable-is able to move on the road.
washable-is okay to wash with water．
recyclable/rechargeable/microwaveable/searchable/acceptable/ understandable/rejoiceable...可回收／可充电／可微波／可搜寻／可接受／可了解／可乐的
(suffix)字尾附加字 "able' for any action done with something else --
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Hop Up to Victoria's Bug Zoo for Some Creepy-Crawly Fun
毛骨悚然的蟲蟲動物園Interesting insects attract visitors to this bug zoo,Hug a bug today来触摸一下惊悚的小虫虫吧! by Sally and John Macdonald.
It would be a shame if the inhabitants of the leaf-cutter-ant farm mistook that flat green thing on a nearby branch for something good to eat. It’s their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis, which looks exactly like a leaf if you don’t count those enormous bug eyes out front. The mantis, which is about six inches long, and the leaf-cutter-ant colony are among an infestation of new insect residents brought to the Victoria Bug Zoo in December 2007 from the Amazon. New, too, is a canopy grasshopper with bright red legs, from Trinidad, some exotic katydids and two yellow and black millipedes.
The zoo houses 2 million ants and about 70 species of swarming, squirming, crawling leaping, flying, hissing wildlife from all over the world in a two-room storefront just a few blocks from the famous Empress Hotel in downtown Victoria. Over the past decade, thousands of bug-loving kids -and a few squeamish parents-have visited the zoo to learn about insect romance and potty habits from knowledgeable guides who lead tours every day of the week. The millipedes are by far the crowd favorite at this creepy-crawly version of a petting zoo. Kids and a few parents fight for the chance to don a thick, black Pancho Villa-style mustache. "We're famous for millipede mustaches more than anything else, " says Carol Maier, who started the zoo in 1997. "And there's always a whole lot of bug holding going on." You think having a wormy millipede stretch its bazillion legs across your upper lip is creepy and beyond disgusting? Nope. It's thickly, not slimy, and it wouldn't think of taking a nip from a lip.
The new canopy grasshoppers are about five inches long "and really are lovely," Maier says. "Red legs with big jumping hind legs. They live in the canopy of the jungle, hence the name. We've been breeding them in captivity for a few years, but the eggs took about three years to hatch this time. We had all but given up on them and then one day, puff, 200 baby grasshoppers to take care of."
Many of the bugs are safe enough for kids to handle, but the stingers and biters aren't allowed out to play when folks comes to visit. The new Sydney funnel-web spider, a native of Australia, has a four-inch leg-span and a toxic bite. "She doesn't spin a web," says Maier. "She hunts."
The tarantula's bite isn't deadly, but it is painful, and some spiders may shoot spiny hairs that irritate eyes or mucous membranes toward anything they deem threatening, so the zoo staff handles them with care. And stinkbugs do cause a stink if they feel endangered. The bugs don't take up much space, only a couple bedroom-size chambers. Clear plastic tubes meander up, down and across the walls of one room, a see-through ant farm that Maier bills as the largest in Canada. Assorted mantises, millipedes, grasshoppers, crickets, spiders and cockroaches occupy the other room. Insect life and culture may be puzzling to humans, but it isn't as disgusting as the kids would sometimes like the old folks to think.
It's a myth, for instance, that female mantises always bite the heads off the males after mating. It happens, but usually only in captivity and if they don't have enough to eat. He's just another bug or snack-to her.
News of the fun is getting around. public broadcasting camera crews shot footage that was aired in the summer of 2008. Maier didn't know exactly what footage they were planning to show at the time of filming. But it's a cinch the cameraman would have focused on a millipede trying its best to help a 4-year-old grow a thick, black bandito mustache.
More Information
At Victoria's bug zoo the dangerous bugs and insects aren't allowed out-not so much because they're a threat to the children but because the creatures need to be protected from the young visitors! For example, kids can get excited and drop an insect in the case of a tarantula, that can cause a broken spider leg, which can be fatal-to the spider.
Grammar
It's their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis which looks exactly like a leaf if you don't count those enormous bug eyes out front!
out front=that are out on the front of its face.
There is a "for sale" sign out front.
I'll see you at the theater; we'll meet out front.
Vocabulary
inhabitant (n)- someone or something live somewhere.
That old house looks like it hasn't had any inhabitants for 50 years.
infestation (n)-refer to a large amount of something going altogether at the same time toward the same place.植物，昆虫，寄生虫大量出入或搔扰，搅乱，大量侵袭．
The restaurant's rat infestation seriously damaged its reputation around town.
*An infestation of rats in the building caused the bureau of public health to shut it down.
*It's hard to ease the pain and the itching caused a flea infestation.
top billing－排名表的最高位置，通常是男女主角．
It would be a shame if the inhabitants of the leaf-cutter-ant farm mistook that flat green thing on a nearby branch for something good to eat. It’s their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis, which looks exactly like a leaf if you don’t count those enormous bug eyes out front. The mantis, which is about six inches long, and the leaf-cutter-ant colony are among an infestation of new insect residents brought to the Victoria Bug Zoo in December 2007 from the Amazon. New, too, is a canopy grasshopper with bright red legs, from Trinidad, some exotic katydids and two yellow and black millipedes.
The zoo houses 2 million ants and about 70 species of swarming, squirming, crawling leaping, flying, hissing wildlife from all over the world in a two-room storefront just a few blocks from the famous Empress Hotel in downtown Victoria. Over the past decade, thousands of bug-loving kids -and a few squeamish parents-have visited the zoo to learn about insect romance and potty habits from knowledgeable guides who lead tours every day of the week. The millipedes are by far the crowd favorite at this creepy-crawly version of a petting zoo. Kids and a few parents fight for the chance to don a thick, black Pancho Villa-style mustache. "We're famous for millipede mustaches more than anything else, " says Carol Maier, who started the zoo in 1997. "And there's always a whole lot of bug holding going on." You think having a wormy millipede stretch its bazillion legs across your upper lip is creepy and beyond disgusting? Nope. It's thickly, not slimy, and it wouldn't think of taking a nip from a lip.
The new canopy grasshoppers are about five inches long "and really are lovely," Maier says. "Red legs with big jumping hind legs. They live in the canopy of the jungle, hence the name. We've been breeding them in captivity for a few years, but the eggs took about three years to hatch this time. We had all but given up on them and then one day, puff, 200 baby grasshoppers to take care of."
Many of the bugs are safe enough for kids to handle, but the stingers and biters aren't allowed out to play when folks comes to visit. The new Sydney funnel-web spider, a native of Australia, has a four-inch leg-span and a toxic bite. "She doesn't spin a web," says Maier. "She hunts."
The tarantula's bite isn't deadly, but it is painful, and some spiders may shoot spiny hairs that irritate eyes or mucous membranes toward anything they deem threatening, so the zoo staff handles them with care. And stinkbugs do cause a stink if they feel endangered. The bugs don't take up much space, only a couple bedroom-size chambers. Clear plastic tubes meander up, down and across the walls of one room, a see-through ant farm that Maier bills as the largest in Canada. Assorted mantises, millipedes, grasshoppers, crickets, spiders and cockroaches occupy the other room. Insect life and culture may be puzzling to humans, but it isn't as disgusting as the kids would sometimes like the old folks to think.
It's a myth, for instance, that female mantises always bite the heads off the males after mating. It happens, but usually only in captivity and if they don't have enough to eat. He's just another bug or snack-to her.
News of the fun is getting around. public broadcasting camera crews shot footage that was aired in the summer of 2008. Maier didn't know exactly what footage they were planning to show at the time of filming. But it's a cinch the cameraman would have focused on a millipede trying its best to help a 4-year-old grow a thick, black bandito mustache.
More Information
At Victoria's bug zoo the dangerous bugs and insects aren't allowed out-not so much because they're a threat to the children but because the creatures need to be protected from the young visitors! For example, kids can get excited and drop an insect in the case of a tarantula, that can cause a broken spider leg, which can be fatal-to the spider.
Grammar
It's their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis which looks exactly like a leaf if you don't count those enormous bug eyes out front!
out front=that are out on the front of its face.
There is a "for sale" sign out front.
I'll see you at the theater; we'll meet out front.
Vocabulary
inhabitant (n)- someone or something live somewhere.
That old house looks like it hasn't had any inhabitants for 50 years.
infestation (n)-refer to a large amount of something going altogether at the same time toward the same place.植物，昆虫，寄生虫大量出入或搔扰，搅乱，大量侵袭．
The restaurant's rat infestation seriously damaged its reputation around town.
*An infestation of rats in the building caused the bureau of public health to shut it down.
*It's hard to ease the pain and the itching caused a flea infestation.
hiss (v)-Vivian screamed in fear when the snake hissed at her.向她发出＂呲呲＂声．
*The snake hissed to threaten its enemy.
*The steam hissed loudly because the pipe was broken.
squeamish (adj) －易作呕的，爱挑剔的，神经质的，有洁癖的．容易受到惊吓的．
While the thought of eating insects makes most people feel squeamish, it makes Bill hungry.
*This horror movie is definitely not for the squeamish.
*Sean is too squeamish to be a doctor. He feels faint when he sees blood.
creepy (adj)-The creepy old house looked like it came right out of a horror movie.毛骨悚然
slimy (adj)-thickly, runny condition. 粘糊糊的，质地粘粘的，泥泞的
After handling all those fish, Peter's hands were extremely slimy.
*The fish has a slimy texture but tastes delicious.
*This trail becomes really slimy after it rains, so be careful if you go hiking.
*The eggs were covered with some sort of slimy substance.
captivity (n)-拘禁俘虏，拘束，cap－抓住的意思
Animals that have grown up in captivity often have difficulty adjusting to life in the wild.
*The hostages were held in captivity for over 10 hours.人质
*Animals that were raised in captivity might not survive in the wild.
toxic (adj)-Large amounts of chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats.毒的，有毒性的
*The toxic waste of nuclear facilities needs to be professionally handled.
*The toxic effect of alcohol nearly took his life.
*When the paint was tested toxic substances were found in it.
deem (v)-considered认为，被视为
After deeming the project unnecessary, the organization cut its funding.
*Since this area is deemed dangerous, only authorized persons can enter.
*He was deemed the most likely contestant to win the competition.参赛者
meander (v)-弯曲迂回，曲折，
The calm river meandering through the town forms a beautiful scene.
*The path meanders through the garden and leads to a cottage.
*The visitors can meander along the river.延着河边漫步．
assorted (adj)-large with variety.
For Valentine's Day, Simon got his wife a box of assorted chocolates.
cinch(n)-is easy to do. 很肯定的事或是简单的事．I can do that. It's a cinch.
As the most gifted actress in the entire school. Amy was a cinch for the lead role.
*Samuel is one of the top students of his class. Getting good grades is a cinch for him.
*It's a cinch that Patrick will win the swimming competition.
tarantula- a kind of spider, large size with hair.
mucous membranes- a thin layer of something come out of inner part of the body.
bandito (adj)-word from bandit.
Pancho Villa-style--a style like Pancho Villa,who is a Hispanic out law person with thick mustache on his face.
Chat Room
milli--one-thousandth. . million
millimeter-1/1000 one thousandth of a meter.
millipede- pede-refer to "foot"有很多很多如上百万的脚的虫
pedal-pedicure-both related to "feet". pedal-脚踏板 pedicure-修脚指头作脚步護理
----------
onomatopoeia-凝声词，模凝声音而有的字
puff- poof, hiss－噗／呼／呲
pop－balloon bursting/boom－some heavy things hit the ground/buzz－bee is buzzing around/bang －Gun has been fire
------------
bill (n)-charge people money. bill (v) is"describe"以传单海报广告来宣布．
Disneyland bills itself as the happiest place on earth.打广告宣传
The president's to Germany was billed as nonpolitical.
opening credits/closing credits.开幕／闭幕的排名表上
Anne Hathaway has been billed as the next Julia Roberts．排名在
Shoes With Soul
有靈魂的鞋子The charity Soul of Africa produces shoes to help people in South Africa by Lisa Holl Chang
In small factories in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, women stitch leather shoes. Before these factories opened, the women were unemployed, but now they earn money for their families. Shoes from these factories are sold online or sent to the U.S. or U.K., where people buy them. The profits from the sales go back to South Africa. The money helps to keep community centers in KwaZulu-Natal running. These centers serve children and families affected by AIDS. Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
In 2003, Lancelot Clark, a sixth generation member of the family that began Clarks shoes, visited South Africa. The visit opened his eyes to the effects of the AIDS crisis. Deciding to help. Clark designed a shoe that could be made by women in their homes. He then teamed up with South African shoe manufacturers Mike and Sarah Gedye. Together they formed Soul of Africa, which employs over 70 women and helps children through 30 centers, and other projects. By providing jobs and helping children, this charity proves shoes can "have soul" as well as soles.
Grammar:
Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
to make something possible=to cause something to become possible.
The new law makes it possible for children from low-income families to receive free education.
The alarm system was broken, making it possible for the thief to break into the house.
Vocabulary
stitch (v)- 缝,缝补,绣.I want to stitch together a small blanket for my baby.
*Mom stitched my little brother's name on his schoolbag.
*I stitched a new button on my trousers after the original one fell off.
*It only took the doctor 5 minutes to stitch up my wound.
profit (n)-Even though we spent a lot on supplies, we still made a profit at the bake sale.
open one's eyes (idiom)- The semester I spent studying in Europe really opened my eyes to other cultures.
manufacturer (n)-This company is a major car manufacturer and has many factories.
unemployed (adj)-未受雇用的,没工作的,失业的 (n)-失业者.un-否定的意思,employ雇用
*Larry has been unemployed for over 6 months now.
*The unemployed of the country have become a social problem.
sole (n)- 鞋底,袜底,脚底板.There are several holes in the soles of his socks.
*The sole of this shoe needs to be repaired.
*The soles of these boots are starting to get worn out.
soul (n)-feeling, spirit.魂,灵魂,精神面的
Chat Room
Team (n)-球队,任何体育比赛的队,团队, 队伍.
Team up-to join someone or a group of people to do something.
team up with someone-与某人协力合作.
teamwork-团队精神.
team player-有团队精神的队员. 默契合作,不求己私,为了团队成绩,做球给队友得分.
"on" the team-用"on" 来表示"属于这个队"
In small factories in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, women stitch leather shoes. Before these factories opened, the women were unemployed, but now they earn money for their families. Shoes from these factories are sold online or sent to the U.S. or U.K., where people buy them. The profits from the sales go back to South Africa. The money helps to keep community centers in KwaZulu-Natal running. These centers serve children and families affected by AIDS. Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
In 2003, Lancelot Clark, a sixth generation member of the family that began Clarks shoes, visited South Africa. The visit opened his eyes to the effects of the AIDS crisis. Deciding to help. Clark designed a shoe that could be made by women in their homes. He then teamed up with South African shoe manufacturers Mike and Sarah Gedye. Together they formed Soul of Africa, which employs over 70 women and helps children through 30 centers, and other projects. By providing jobs and helping children, this charity proves shoes can "have soul" as well as soles.
Grammar:
Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
to make something possible=to cause something to become possible.
The new law makes it possible for children from low-income families to receive free education.
The alarm system was broken, making it possible for the thief to break into the house.
Vocabulary
stitch (v)- 缝,缝补,绣.I want to stitch together a small blanket for my baby.
*Mom stitched my little brother's name on his schoolbag.
*I stitched a new button on my trousers after the original one fell off.
*It only took the doctor 5 minutes to stitch up my wound.
profit (n)-Even though we spent a lot on supplies, we still made a profit at the bake sale.
open one's eyes (idiom)- The semester I spent studying in Europe really opened my eyes to other cultures.
manufacturer (n)-This company is a major car manufacturer and has many factories.
unemployed (adj)-未受雇用的,没工作的,失业的 (n)-失业者.un-否定的意思,employ雇用
*Larry has been unemployed for over 6 months now.
*The unemployed of the country have become a social problem.
sole (n)- 鞋底,袜底,脚底板.There are several holes in the soles of his socks.
*The sole of this shoe needs to be repaired.
*The soles of these boots are starting to get worn out.
soul (n)-feeling, spirit.魂,灵魂,精神面的
Chat Room
Team (n)-球队,任何体育比赛的队,团队, 队伍.
Team up-to join someone or a group of people to do something.
team up with someone-与某人协力合作.
teamwork-团队精神.
team player-有团队精神的队员. 默契合作,不求己私,为了团队成绩,做球给队友得分.
"on" the team-用"on" 来表示"属于这个队"
Monday, December 7, 2009
Life Above the Clouds
雲上人間Come fly with me
SC: How much time do pilots actually spend flying a plane?
JF: It varies from about 20 minutes on some domestic flights to as much as 18 hours on international flights. It all depends on if the flight is a short- or long-haul flight.
SC: Do pilots take breaks during flights or do they fly the whole time?
JF: Yes, we take breaks during long-haul flights. Airlines assign three or four pilots to long flights. Since jets like the Boeing 747 and 777 only need two pilots, we fly the plane in shifts.
SC: If pilots are traveling all the time, how do they deal with jet lag?
JF: Jet lag is annoying for almost all pilots, and there are hundreds of ways to deal with it. I try to keep to the same schedule as I would at home.
SC: How important is it to know the weight and size of the plane you're flying?
JF: Knowing the weight of an airplane is very important because it affects how high and how long you can fly. We weigh almost everything put into the airplane and make estimates based on the number of people on each flight.
SC: How have security changes affected your job over the last several years?
JF: After the 9/11 tragedy, the airline industry developed all kinds of products and procedures to make flights even safer than they already were. For example, they have introduced new bulletproof cockpit doors and airport procedures for dealing with bomb threats.
SC: How do you deal with troublesome passengers?
JF: Pilots are entitled to take all reasonable measures to protect the safety of the aircraft, passengers, crew and property on board. Pilots should consider restraining a violent or unruly passenger if he or she is becoming a hazard to safety.
SC: Pilots eat the airplane food?
JF: Yes, we do eat airplane food! We eat the business class food. Airplane food changes every season and is very delicious unless you get tired of eating lobster every day! The pilot and co-pilot are supposed to make different meal choices so that if one of the dishes causes food poisoning, only one of them will be sick. That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
Grammar:
...That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
*Janice always puts her keys by the door. That way, she can be sure she will never forget them when she leaves the house.
*Always stretch and warm up before you start swimming. That way, you can avoid getting a cramp.
Vocabulary
short-haul (adj)-Marc plans to take a short-haul flight from Boston to New York this weekend.
long-haul (adj)-Airlines usually serve several meals on their long-haul routes.
*The long-haul flight from Taipei to New York is really exhausting.
assign (v)-Mrs. Franklin assigns work to her staff every morning.
jet lag (n)-搭飞机产生的时差。jet-喷射机 lag-时差，迟，后退或延
Marcy will be suffering from jet lag after her flight from London.
*Vivian still hasn't recovered from her jet lag after returning from France last week.
*Mark travels a lot so he is used to having jet lag.
estimate (n)- 估出来的价格或数量 estimate (v)-估量，估计，评估
According to These estimate, the company needs to increase its sales.
*According to the mechanic's estimate, I will have to pay over $200 to repair my air-conditioner.
*The estimates for next month's sales figures look good.
tragedy (n)-The quick-thinking police officer helped prevent a major tragedy.
entitled (v)-有资格或权利做某些事情en-使。。如何如何的意思 title-资格或权利。
Because Emily was the oldest child, her parents felt she was entitled to her own room.
*Being sick doesn't entitle you to say harsh words 严厉的话to others.
*The shareholders are entitled to know the latest information on the company's condition.
restrain (v)-管束，抑制，现制行动re-有回来的意思．
Terra and Jason restrain their dog with a leash when they take it for walk．
I couldn't restrain my laughter抑制不住笑出来 when I heard him sing-it was awful.
restrain someone from doing something-限制某人做某事
*The doctor had to restrain the patient from hurting herself.
food poisoning (n)-If you eat chicken that isn't fully cooked, you might get food poisoning.
bulletproof-防弹bullet-子弹,proof-证明 (adj)防某种东西的，防．，
a bulletproof vest防弹背心a waterproof watch防水手表,a soundproof room-有隔音的．
unruly-out of control, troublesome
Chat Room
airline commercial (n)-will be an advertisement on TV or newspaper.
commercial airline (n)- a commerce business type of airline.
commerce (adj)-trade for commerce.商业贸易
advertisement (n)-Ad. 英国人把重音放在“ver”上，略与美国发音不同.
polite-Military pilots 军方的飞行员。
short-haul/ long-haul- haul旅途的时间或距离。
a short-haul route近距离路线, a short-haul aircraft专门飞短程的飞机。
--------------
perk is short word for perquisite.－工资以外的津贴或外快
perk-也可表示一份工作所给予的特权或特殊待遇，公司提供给员工的
fringe benefit-附加的福利．如汽车，保险等．
SC: How much time do pilots actually spend flying a plane?
JF: It varies from about 20 minutes on some domestic flights to as much as 18 hours on international flights. It all depends on if the flight is a short- or long-haul flight.
SC: Do pilots take breaks during flights or do they fly the whole time?
JF: Yes, we take breaks during long-haul flights. Airlines assign three or four pilots to long flights. Since jets like the Boeing 747 and 777 only need two pilots, we fly the plane in shifts.
SC: If pilots are traveling all the time, how do they deal with jet lag?
JF: Jet lag is annoying for almost all pilots, and there are hundreds of ways to deal with it. I try to keep to the same schedule as I would at home.
SC: How important is it to know the weight and size of the plane you're flying?
JF: Knowing the weight of an airplane is very important because it affects how high and how long you can fly. We weigh almost everything put into the airplane and make estimates based on the number of people on each flight.
SC: How have security changes affected your job over the last several years?
JF: After the 9/11 tragedy, the airline industry developed all kinds of products and procedures to make flights even safer than they already were. For example, they have introduced new bulletproof cockpit doors and airport procedures for dealing with bomb threats.
SC: How do you deal with troublesome passengers?
JF: Pilots are entitled to take all reasonable measures to protect the safety of the aircraft, passengers, crew and property on board. Pilots should consider restraining a violent or unruly passenger if he or she is becoming a hazard to safety.
SC: Pilots eat the airplane food?
JF: Yes, we do eat airplane food! We eat the business class food. Airplane food changes every season and is very delicious unless you get tired of eating lobster every day! The pilot and co-pilot are supposed to make different meal choices so that if one of the dishes causes food poisoning, only one of them will be sick. That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
Grammar:
...That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
*Janice always puts her keys by the door. That way, she can be sure she will never forget them when she leaves the house.
*Always stretch and warm up before you start swimming. That way, you can avoid getting a cramp.
Vocabulary
short-haul (adj)-Marc plans to take a short-haul flight from Boston to New York this weekend.
long-haul (adj)-Airlines usually serve several meals on their long-haul routes.
*The long-haul flight from Taipei to New York is really exhausting.
assign (v)-Mrs. Franklin assigns work to her staff every morning.
jet lag (n)-搭飞机产生的时差。jet-喷射机 lag-时差，迟，后退或延
Marcy will be suffering from jet lag after her flight from London.
*Vivian still hasn't recovered from her jet lag after returning from France last week.
*Mark travels a lot so he is used to having jet lag.
estimate (n)- 估出来的价格或数量 estimate (v)-估量，估计，评估
According to These estimate, the company needs to increase its sales.
*According to the mechanic's estimate, I will have to pay over $200 to repair my air-conditioner.
*The estimates for next month's sales figures look good.
tragedy (n)-The quick-thinking police officer helped prevent a major tragedy.
entitled (v)-有资格或权利做某些事情en-使。。如何如何的意思 title-资格或权利。
Because Emily was the oldest child, her parents felt she was entitled to her own room.
*Being sick doesn't entitle you to say harsh words 严厉的话to others.
*The shareholders are entitled to know the latest information on the company's condition.
restrain (v)-管束，抑制，现制行动re-有回来的意思．
Terra and Jason restrain their dog with a leash when they take it for walk．
I couldn't restrain my laughter抑制不住笑出来 when I heard him sing-it was awful.
restrain someone from doing something-限制某人做某事
*The doctor had to restrain the patient from hurting herself.
food poisoning (n)-If you eat chicken that isn't fully cooked, you might get food poisoning.
bulletproof-防弹bullet-子弹,proof-证明 (adj)防某种东西的，防．，
a bulletproof vest防弹背心a waterproof watch防水手表,a soundproof room-有隔音的．
unruly-out of control, troublesome
Chat Room
airline commercial (n)-will be an advertisement on TV or newspaper.
commercial airline (n)- a commerce business type of airline.
commerce (adj)-trade for commerce.商业贸易
advertisement (n)-Ad. 英国人把重音放在“ver”上，略与美国发音不同.
polite-Military pilots 军方的飞行员。
short-haul/ long-haul- haul旅途的时间或距离。
a short-haul route近距离路线, a short-haul aircraft专门飞短程的飞机。
--------------
perk is short word for perquisite.－工资以外的津贴或外快
perk-也可表示一份工作所给予的特权或特殊待遇，公司提供给员工的
fringe benefit-附加的福利．如汽车，保险等．
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Can I get a refund?
Not satisfied? Get your money back不滿意買到的商品？把錢要回來吧
You can get your money back if you’re not satisfied by Ruth Devlin
It happens to everyone. You buy something and a few days later, you’re not happy with the product or service. What can you do? You can usually return the product or cancel the service and get your money back. Many companies have good refund policies. But before buying anything, find out about a company’s policy – better safe than sorry.
In addition, be sure the company is reputable. In the United States, you can check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to get that information. By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts. Usually there is a time limit for refunds or exchanges. Be careful to stay within that time period. If you shop online, be sure to read the return or refund policy on the company's website. And most important, get a receipt and keep it. That's your proof that you actually paid for an item.
Conversation A
Laura: Hey, Jack, look at the laptop on this webpage. It's only $499- what a great deal! I'm going to buy it.
Jack : Have you read the return policy yet?
Laura: Not yet! Let's see... "You may return new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Items should be in their original product packaging."
Jack: OK. But what if you've opened the item?
Laura: Uh, for any opened lap top or desktop computer, a 15 percent restocking fee will apply. So I'd only get a partial refund.
Jack: Then be sure you really want it.
Conversation B (in a store)
Jack: This stereo is 35 percent off right now. And I have the cash on me to pay for it.
Laura: If you buy it, don't pay cash. Use your credit card.
Jack : Why? How I pay for it is no big deal.
Laura: Use your credit card.
Jack: Why? How I pay for it is no big deal.
Laura: It could be. What if something goes wrong with the stereo?
Jack: I'll return it for a refund.
Laura: But maybe the store won't give you a refund for some reason. Or maybe you'll only get part of your money back. If you charge it, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company. They may help you get your money back.
Jack: That's good thinking. Laura
Grammar
By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts.
by law= according to the law.
using "by" means there is certain standard need to fallow.
The Smith brothers play by Grandpa Smith's card game rules.
Timothy must be home before ten by his mother's watch.
Vocabulary
better safe than sorry (idiom)-a short way saying"It's better to be safe than to be sorry"
Take an umbrella in case it rains. Better safe than sorry.
cash register (n)-The clerk opened the drawer of the cash register to get Alex some change.
exchange (n)-Paul did an exchange and got a blue coat instead of a red one.交易，交换
*We bought the wrong type of software and had to exchange it the following day.
*The workers were given food and shelter in exchange for their labor.
proof (n)-证明，证据．Here's my sales receipt. That's proof I paid for dinner.
*The police have concrete proof to charge the suspect.
*You'd better keep the receipt as your proof of purchase.
*Do you have any proof of identity?
reputable-have good reputation.声誉好的或是可尊敬的，信誉良好的．
The lawyer is one of the partners at a reputable firm.
*We insured our house through a reputable insurance company.
*The reputable airline company has never had an accident.
webpage (n)-the page or site on the Internet.
While on the computer, Marlyn read about the company on their webpage.
original (adj)- 原始的，原本的， 也可作为“有创意的”
The original plan was to have the party here, but we changed it.
*The original design of the building was changed several times.
*The original inhabitants of the area were forced out by the troops.这地方原本的居住的住户被军队趕出去了.
*He is an original writer who wrote many best-sellers.很有创意的作家写了很多畅销书。
restock-重新进货或回到仓库。 re-再一次 stock-储存或进货，补充（填补）。
*We need to restock our pantry and freezer before Christmas. 储藏柜
*The librarian spent hours restocking the shelves with the returned books.
stereo (n)-Tim loves to listen to music on his stereo.
dispute (v)-提出质疑，提出反对意见。dis-分开，除去
Rex thinks he deserves a better grade. He's going to dispute it with the school.
* I don't dispute his enthusiasm toward his job, but I do question his qualification.
Chat Room
better:
I've never been better=I'm doing very well.我从来没这么好过．
better late than never=better do it than not do it at all 迟到总比不到好，亡羊补牢猶未晚． the sooner the better= do as soon as possible 越快越好
better safe than sorry-宁可求安全不要冒险而后悔．有备无患
It's better to give than to receive-receive a gift is nice but the giver is more rewarding than receiver 失比受更为有福．给的人看到接受人的欢喜心情，令自己心中感到满足感恩的快乐
---------
on
I have cash on me =I have cash with me. 我身上有钱
"on" ="with". "on" means it could be with you any where of your body, in your purse..
I have "my" credit card on me. 用信用卡时，最好用“所有格”我的，你的来区分。
Do you have your credit card?你有。。=Do you have your credit card on you?你身上有。。
"on" , can use on any small object with you. pen, pencil, gum, tissues, wallet, notebook, purse。任何可以随身硒带的小东西,都可用"on"
Do you have a pen or pencil on you?
Do you have any gum on you?
Do you have any tissues on you?
Do you have your wallet with you?
*chair on me will be there is a chair on the top of you. so "on" only for small items, small objects.
You can get your money back if you’re not satisfied by Ruth Devlin
It happens to everyone. You buy something and a few days later, you’re not happy with the product or service. What can you do? You can usually return the product or cancel the service and get your money back. Many companies have good refund policies. But before buying anything, find out about a company’s policy – better safe than sorry.
In addition, be sure the company is reputable. In the United States, you can check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to get that information. By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts. Usually there is a time limit for refunds or exchanges. Be careful to stay within that time period. If you shop online, be sure to read the return or refund policy on the company's website. And most important, get a receipt and keep it. That's your proof that you actually paid for an item.
Conversation A
Laura: Hey, Jack, look at the laptop on this webpage. It's only $499- what a great deal! I'm going to buy it.
Jack : Have you read the return policy yet?
Laura: Not yet! Let's see... "You may return new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Items should be in their original product packaging."
Jack: OK. But what if you've opened the item?
Laura: Uh, for any opened lap top or desktop computer, a 15 percent restocking fee will apply. So I'd only get a partial refund.
Jack: Then be sure you really want it.
Conversation B (in a store)
Jack: This stereo is 35 percent off right now. And I have the cash on me to pay for it.
Laura: If you buy it, don't pay cash. Use your credit card.
Jack : Why? How I pay for it is no big deal.
Laura: Use your credit card.
Jack: Why? How I pay for it is no big deal.
Laura: It could be. What if something goes wrong with the stereo?
Jack: I'll return it for a refund.
Laura: But maybe the store won't give you a refund for some reason. Or maybe you'll only get part of your money back. If you charge it, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company. They may help you get your money back.
Jack: That's good thinking. Laura
Grammar
By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts.
by law= according to the law.
using "by" means there is certain standard need to fallow.
The Smith brothers play by Grandpa Smith's card game rules.
Timothy must be home before ten by his mother's watch.
Vocabulary
better safe than sorry (idiom)-a short way saying"It's better to be safe than to be sorry"
Take an umbrella in case it rains. Better safe than sorry.
cash register (n)-The clerk opened the drawer of the cash register to get Alex some change.
exchange (n)-Paul did an exchange and got a blue coat instead of a red one.交易，交换
*We bought the wrong type of software and had to exchange it the following day.
*The workers were given food and shelter in exchange for their labor.
proof (n)-证明，证据．Here's my sales receipt. That's proof I paid for dinner.
*The police have concrete proof to charge the suspect.
*You'd better keep the receipt as your proof of purchase.
*Do you have any proof of identity?
reputable-have good reputation.声誉好的或是可尊敬的，信誉良好的．
The lawyer is one of the partners at a reputable firm.
*We insured our house through a reputable insurance company.
*The reputable airline company has never had an accident.
webpage (n)-the page or site on the Internet.
While on the computer, Marlyn read about the company on their webpage.
original (adj)- 原始的，原本的， 也可作为“有创意的”
The original plan was to have the party here, but we changed it.
*The original design of the building was changed several times.
*The original inhabitants of the area were forced out by the troops.这地方原本的居住的住户被军队趕出去了.
*He is an original writer who wrote many best-sellers.很有创意的作家写了很多畅销书。
restock-重新进货或回到仓库。 re-再一次 stock-储存或进货，补充（填补）。
*We need to restock our pantry and freezer before Christmas. 储藏柜
*The librarian spent hours restocking the shelves with the returned books.
stereo (n)-Tim loves to listen to music on his stereo.
dispute (v)-提出质疑，提出反对意见。dis-分开，除去
Rex thinks he deserves a better grade. He's going to dispute it with the school.
* I don't dispute his enthusiasm toward his job, but I do question his qualification.
Chat Room
better:
I've never been better=I'm doing very well.我从来没这么好过．
better late than never=better do it than not do it at all 迟到总比不到好，亡羊补牢猶未晚． the sooner the better= do as soon as possible 越快越好
better safe than sorry-宁可求安全不要冒险而后悔．有备无患
It's better to give than to receive-receive a gift is nice but the giver is more rewarding than receiver 失比受更为有福．给的人看到接受人的欢喜心情，令自己心中感到满足感恩的快乐
---------
on
I have cash on me =I have cash with me. 我身上有钱
"on" ="with". "on" means it could be with you any where of your body, in your purse..
I have "my" credit card on me. 用信用卡时，最好用“所有格”我的，你的来区分。
Do you have your credit card?你有。。=Do you have your credit card on you?你身上有。。
"on" , can use on any small object with you. pen, pencil, gum, tissues, wallet, notebook, purse。任何可以随身硒带的小东西,都可用"on"
Do you have a pen or pencil on you?
Do you have any gum on you?
Do you have any tissues on you?
Do you have your wallet with you?
*chair on me will be there is a chair on the top of you. so "on" only for small items, small objects.
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