美國文學之父：馬克?吐溫One hundred years after Twain’s death, his memorable characters live on. by Pamela Osment
In 1835, the return of Halley's comet caused great excitement in the world. That same year in another historic event, the baby who would become the "Father of American Literature" was born.
Samuel Langhorne Clemens - Known later as Mark Twain - began life on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Mo. When Clemens was around 4, his family moved to Hannibal, Mo., a river town situated on the Mississippi River. His new home provided him with lots of excitement and adventure as steamboats from New Orleans and St. Louis stopped there regularly. The new environment also proved to be fertile ground for a boy with an active imagination and a gift for storytelling.
Discovering his talent
When Clemens was only 11, his father died, leaving the family in financial difficulty. At 13, the boy had to quit school and find a job, working first for a printer. Next he worked for his brother, a newspaper publisher, and it was then that Clemens discovered how much he enjoyed writing . in his free time, he began writing and submitting humorous pieces to his brother's newspaper.
Realizing a dream
Though Clemens liked writing he had always dreamed of piloting steamboats on the mighty Mississippi River. While in his 20x, he decided to do it, training and then working as a riverboat captain for three years.
His experiences left a lasting impression on him and even provided the pen name Mark Twain, which he would later use.
Finding fame
In 1863, Clemens began publishing regularly as Mark Twain, but fame eluded him. Then in 1865 he found success with his short story "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County." However, it was his books about two boys growing up along the Mississippi River that would bring him lasting prominence. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn introduced readers to a child's world of delightful adventures.
Living on
Twain published over 60 works during his lifetime. Then, as he himself had predicted, he died the same year Halley's comet returned - in 1910. One hundred years ago, the world lost a literary giant. But his words still live on in the lives of America's favorite fictional boys, Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.
More Information:
A Few Mark Twain Facts:
1. Halley's comet could be seen at the night Mark Twain was born and the night he passed away.
2. In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn the fictional town of St. Petersberg was based on Twain's hometown of Hannibal, Mo.
3. As a riverboat pilot Twain earned from $150 to $250 a month.
4. Roughing it describes Twain's journey out West with his brother Orion.
Grammar on the go:
.....in 1865 he found success with his short story....
"to found success with.."= to become successful in...
" to find success with something "-
After trying numerous different diets to lose weight, Katherine finally found success with her current exercise program.
Although Joseph didn't do well in his studies, he did find success with the school's drama club.
Vocabulary Tips:
literature-複數名詞“文學”
*The professor specializes in modern English literature.專精於。現代英國文學。
*In this author's latest work of literature, you can find a shift from pessimism to optimism. 從。。由悲觀轉變成樂觀。
fertile ground for something-某件事的沃土，意即“培養某件事的最環境. fertile-肥沃，
*Touring with his mother's band offered fertile ground for the talented little boy.
submit-呈交，繳交，提交 submitted/submitting。
*The proposal will be submitted next week.
eluded-1. 閃避，逃避，躲避. 2. 想不起來，難倒某個對象，（看不懂，找不到答案，搞不清楚）escaped, avoid, confused.
*The deer successfully eluded the tiger and ran into the forest. 閃躲掉。
*the details of our contract eluded me. 難倒了我，弄不清楚。
*A cure for this disease still eludes scientists.找不到答案
prominence-有聲望，有名聲的。聲望，名聲。fame, well known, noticeable and important.
*A researcher of prominence will visit our lab today.
*The actor gained prominence when he was nominated for an Oscar. 提名
predicted-預報，預測，預言。pre-在。。之先。
*The hurricane was predicted to influence the entire coastal area of Florida.
*Many professional analysts predicted that another financial crisis would happen this year.
Chat Room
humor -幽默，可笑，滑稽。
a sense of humor-幽默感
see its humor-看到它的幽默。
humor=mood- 心情，情緒，興致。
In a good humor,-有個好心情，好興致。
In a bad humor-有個坏心情， 心情不好。
I'm in no humor to do something. 我沒心情去做某事。
Humor is "noun" can not be a "adjective", humor's adjective is "humorous"
humorous (adj)-很 幽默的。
humorous pieces-很幽默的文章，作品
----------
His experiences left a lasting impression on him
impression-印象
lasting impression-深刻的印象。
first impression-初次的印象，第一印象。
get the wrong impression-得到錯誤的印象，誤解，誤會。
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Today’s Technology Trends
當今的科技趨勢A closer look at where technology is and where it is going by Simon Stopps
SC: What is the difference between computer science, computer engineering and management information systems (MIS)?
EC: In general, computer science tends to deal with theory, methods and processes. In computer engineering, the emphasis is on applying those theories to real-world situations. In contrast, Management Information Systems goes a step further and focuses on applying various technologies in business situations.
SC: What areas of computer technology are growing in importance?
EC: There are a lot of exciting things happening with technology right now. Currently, there is a lot of emphasis on mobile technologies-like cell phones. There is also a lot of interest in search technology, especially with regard to searching for things like images and videos.
SC: What area of computing are becoming less important?
EC: We are currently seeing a shift away from computer science and toward engineering and MIS. I don't know that it's because computer science is becoming less important. It's just that theory has developed so quickly that businesses need a chance to catch up with applications.
SC: What technological changes should we expect over the next little while?
EC: Basically, we are going to continue to see smaller, faster and more powerful devices. We are also moving toward more integrated technologies. In smart homes, for example, every thing is integrated. You can open windows and doors or turn on lights and appliances remotely.
SC: What impact are mobile technologies having?
EC: Originally, cell phones just made phone calls. Next, they sent text messages and then came images and video calls. Now we're seeing cell phones that make extensive use of extremely varied applications. Eventually, these applications should let us control the other integrated technologies in our lives, while we're on the move.
SC: What challenges will need to be faced as technology moves forward?
EC: In most cases, the technology is ready, but the need is not great enough to justify teh expense. The exception to this is in the area of surveillance. We also need to ensure dependable cell phone coverage as people move around, especially by plane or high-speed rail.
Grammar on the go:
What areas of computer technology are growing in important?
"growing in importance" =" becoming more important."
Having clean water to drink is a subject growing in importance.
"growing in"
"growing in popularity"
Ever since the bakery started selling their special cakes, the bakery has grow in popularity.
"growing in confidence"
Timothy's unique internship position has allowed him to grow in confidence.
Vocabulary Tips:
emphasis (n)- 強調重點 emphases (v)-
* The main emphasis of the program is to help foreign students to adjust more easily to the university.
* We should put more emphasis on the quality of our products instead of our marketing strategies.
shift-轉移,轉變change to
*The politician's drastic shift from supporting the Republican Party to the Democratic Party is a big risk.
*The poll is designed to collect information regarding the shift in consumers' demands.
application-應用,運用
*The applications from this research are mostly used in the field of medicine.
*Engineers are still working on developing a practical application of the theory.
justify-成爲某事的正當理由. give a good reason for something. it comes from " just"-公正的
*I find it very difficult to justify your frequent tardiness. 。。。為你的屢次遲到找到正當理由。
*Being offended doesn't justify your behavior. 被冒犯並不能成爲你行爲的正當理由。
dependable-可靠的，可信靠的。靠得住的
*You have to find a dependable accountant to manage your money.
*The car might not look very fancy, but it's quite dependable. 不很豪華但是很可靠。
coverage (n)- 含概的範圍。cover(v)-覆蓋
*The dictionary gives very good vocabulary coverage. 字典含概相當多的單字。
*People without any form of health coverage always get rejected by the hospital. 任何保險
impact-effect
integrate- technology all come together.
smart homes- it means the house build with many technology involved that make people's living much convenience
Chat Room
the Chair of the Computer Science Department
chair-椅子,.
chair係主任=chairman(男的)- chairwoman(女的), chairperson(中性)
chair (v)-主持
chair a meeting-主持一個會議
---------------------------------------
The exception to this is the area of surveillance.
exception- come from "except" -no exception, excluded.
There are no exceptions to the rule-每人都要遵守規則，每人可以例外。
except-（介係詞）除。。。之外。
Everyone is going to the party except me
except-（連接詞）但是，只是。however
I would go to the party, except I have a lot of work to do. 我很想。。。只是（但是）我有。。
accept- to receive, to agree, to take in. 接受， 接納。
SC: What is the difference between computer science, computer engineering and management information systems (MIS)?
EC: In general, computer science tends to deal with theory, methods and processes. In computer engineering, the emphasis is on applying those theories to real-world situations. In contrast, Management Information Systems goes a step further and focuses on applying various technologies in business situations.
SC: What areas of computer technology are growing in importance?
EC: There are a lot of exciting things happening with technology right now. Currently, there is a lot of emphasis on mobile technologies-like cell phones. There is also a lot of interest in search technology, especially with regard to searching for things like images and videos.
SC: What area of computing are becoming less important?
EC: We are currently seeing a shift away from computer science and toward engineering and MIS. I don't know that it's because computer science is becoming less important. It's just that theory has developed so quickly that businesses need a chance to catch up with applications.
SC: What technological changes should we expect over the next little while?
EC: Basically, we are going to continue to see smaller, faster and more powerful devices. We are also moving toward more integrated technologies. In smart homes, for example, every thing is integrated. You can open windows and doors or turn on lights and appliances remotely.
SC: What impact are mobile technologies having?
EC: Originally, cell phones just made phone calls. Next, they sent text messages and then came images and video calls. Now we're seeing cell phones that make extensive use of extremely varied applications. Eventually, these applications should let us control the other integrated technologies in our lives, while we're on the move.
SC: What challenges will need to be faced as technology moves forward?
EC: In most cases, the technology is ready, but the need is not great enough to justify teh expense. The exception to this is in the area of surveillance. We also need to ensure dependable cell phone coverage as people move around, especially by plane or high-speed rail.
Grammar on the go:
What areas of computer technology are growing in important?
"growing in importance" =" becoming more important."
Having clean water to drink is a subject growing in importance.
"growing in"
"growing in popularity"
Ever since the bakery started selling their special cakes, the bakery has grow in popularity.
"growing in confidence"
Timothy's unique internship position has allowed him to grow in confidence.
Vocabulary Tips:
emphasis (n)- 強調重點 emphases (v)-
* The main emphasis of the program is to help foreign students to adjust more easily to the university.
* We should put more emphasis on the quality of our products instead of our marketing strategies.
shift-轉移,轉變change to
*The politician's drastic shift from supporting the Republican Party to the Democratic Party is a big risk.
*The poll is designed to collect information regarding the shift in consumers' demands.
application-應用,運用
*The applications from this research are mostly used in the field of medicine.
*Engineers are still working on developing a practical application of the theory.
justify-成爲某事的正當理由. give a good reason for something. it comes from " just"-公正的
*I find it very difficult to justify your frequent tardiness. 。。。為你的屢次遲到找到正當理由。
*Being offended doesn't justify your behavior. 被冒犯並不能成爲你行爲的正當理由。
dependable-可靠的，可信靠的。靠得住的
*You have to find a dependable accountant to manage your money.
*The car might not look very fancy, but it's quite dependable. 不很豪華但是很可靠。
coverage (n)- 含概的範圍。cover(v)-覆蓋
*The dictionary gives very good vocabulary coverage. 字典含概相當多的單字。
*People without any form of health coverage always get rejected by the hospital. 任何保險
impact-effect
integrate- technology all come together.
smart homes- it means the house build with many technology involved that make people's living much convenience
Chat Room
the Chair of the Computer Science Department
chair-椅子,.
chair係主任=chairman(男的)- chairwoman(女的), chairperson(中性)
chair (v)-主持
chair a meeting-主持一個會議
---------------------------------------
The exception to this is the area of surveillance.
exception- come from "except" -no exception, excluded.
There are no exceptions to the rule-每人都要遵守規則，每人可以例外。
except-（介係詞）除。。。之外。
Everyone is going to the party except me
except-（連接詞）但是，只是。however
I would go to the party, except I have a lot of work to do. 我很想。。。只是（但是）我有。。
accept- to receive, to agree, to take in. 接受， 接納。
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
梅西百貨感恩節大遊行America starts Thanksgiving in style by Ryan Batdorf
Today in America, most families are gathering together for a feast. In addition, they will play games or watch football together. However, for many, the holiday doesn't seem complete without viewing this large parade in New York City.
How it started
Back in 1924, many of Macy's Department Store employees were European immigrants. Wanting to celebrate American holidays as they did in Europe, they staged a parade. The parade consisted of three floats, four bands and many animals from the Central Park Zoo. Man Macy's employees dressed up and marched in this parade too. And Santa Claus appeared at the parade's end-still a tradition 86 years later!
Today's celebration
Some aspects of this parade have changed over the years. Floats, marching bands and Santa are still a part of the parade, but animals aren't. Those watching today will see numerous giant balloons shaped like animals or famous cartoon characters. Ten thousand people now take part in this parade. More than 3.5 million watch from the sidewalks, and the expected TV audience is 50 million. Many Americans just can't imagine a Thanksgiving without the magical Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Grammar on the go:
Many Americans just can't imagine a Thanksgiving without the magical Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Subject + can't imagine a + something + without + something.
Many Chinese just can't imagine a Lunar New Year celebration without firecrackers.
Jeff is always online, so he can't imagine living in a place with no Internet access.
Vocabulary Tips:
parade-(n),(v)-遊行,
*Many townspeople gathered at the plaza to watch the parade.
*People wear green outfits to attend the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
*Firemen and paramedics paraded through the streets.
immigrant-從囯外移民進來的移民 "im"-"進來"的意思, "migr"-字根有"遷移"的意思.
*Leo's father was an Italian immigrant.
*Illegal immigrants will be sent back immediately.
emigrant-遷移到外國的，"em"- “向外”，emigrant -遷移到國外的移民
float-(v)- 飃浮，(n)-花車。
*The float was decorated with carnations and roses.
*The dancers on the floats dressed like characters in fairy tales. 童話故事
magical- doing something with magic, but here means " wonderful, very exciting."
athletic-運動
* Figure skating has become more and more athletic over the last ten years.
*Melody is an athletic girl. She's good at many sport.
determined-決定， 取決於，立志，立定志向。
*When Nancy left her hometown, she was determined to return one day as a successful business person.
*Your health is determined by your lifestyle and your diet.
break into-進入，潛入
*Samuel broke into the world of computer programing design when he was only 12.
*Entering beauty contests is one of the ways to break into show business.
Chat Room
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
parade-遊行， 行列，炫耀。
a parade of people-行列，人一個接一個出現。
a parade of books-接連不斷的書
parade around the neighborhood in his new car. 繞來繞去在街上炫耀他的新車。
Today in America, most families are gathering together for a feast. In addition, they will play games or watch football together. However, for many, the holiday doesn't seem complete without viewing this large parade in New York City.
How it started
Back in 1924, many of Macy's Department Store employees were European immigrants. Wanting to celebrate American holidays as they did in Europe, they staged a parade. The parade consisted of three floats, four bands and many animals from the Central Park Zoo. Man Macy's employees dressed up and marched in this parade too. And Santa Claus appeared at the parade's end-still a tradition 86 years later!
Today's celebration
Some aspects of this parade have changed over the years. Floats, marching bands and Santa are still a part of the parade, but animals aren't. Those watching today will see numerous giant balloons shaped like animals or famous cartoon characters. Ten thousand people now take part in this parade. More than 3.5 million watch from the sidewalks, and the expected TV audience is 50 million. Many Americans just can't imagine a Thanksgiving without the magical Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Grammar on the go:
Many Americans just can't imagine a Thanksgiving without the magical Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Subject + can't imagine a + something + without + something.
Many Chinese just can't imagine a Lunar New Year celebration without firecrackers.
Jeff is always online, so he can't imagine living in a place with no Internet access.
Vocabulary Tips:
parade-(n),(v)-遊行,
*Many townspeople gathered at the plaza to watch the parade.
*People wear green outfits to attend the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
*Firemen and paramedics paraded through the streets.
immigrant-從囯外移民進來的移民 "im"-"進來"的意思, "migr"-字根有"遷移"的意思.
*Leo's father was an Italian immigrant.
*Illegal immigrants will be sent back immediately.
emigrant-遷移到外國的，"em"- “向外”，emigrant -遷移到國外的移民
float-(v)- 飃浮，(n)-花車。
*The float was decorated with carnations and roses.
*The dancers on the floats dressed like characters in fairy tales. 童話故事
magical- doing something with magic, but here means " wonderful, very exciting."
athletic-運動
* Figure skating has become more and more athletic over the last ten years.
*Melody is an athletic girl. She's good at many sport.
determined-決定， 取決於，立志，立定志向。
*When Nancy left her hometown, she was determined to return one day as a successful business person.
*Your health is determined by your lifestyle and your diet.
break into-進入，潛入
*Samuel broke into the world of computer programing design when he was only 12.
*Entering beauty contests is one of the ways to break into show business.
Chat Room
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
parade-遊行， 行列，炫耀。
a parade of people-行列，人一個接一個出現。
a parade of books-接連不斷的書
parade around the neighborhood in his new car. 繞來繞去在街上炫耀他的新車。
I'm impressed.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Break Dancing
霹靂舞An amazing dance style is back 令人嘆為觀止的舞蹈形式又捲土重來了by Chelsea Ewald
Break dancing is a style of dance like no other. The moves are jaw-dropping, and watching dancers performing them will make your head spin. Break dancing takes skill, strength and rhythm. The style combines acrobatics, Kung Fu-like moves and dance to create a totally unique art from. Although its roots are American, today its popularity has spread around the globe.
Break dancing breaks new ground
Unlike many styles of dance, break dancing is fairly new. In fact, its history only dates back a few decades. It all began in 1969 with music superstar James Brown. While singing his hit song "Get on the Good Foot" Brown did a high-energy dance. his "Good Foot" dance caught on and soon this style of dance became known as B-boy. Identified by its quick footwork, B-boy hit the streets of New York City. There, dancers would gather to hold "dance battles." These battles often helped settle disputes between people without using violence.
As B-boy spread throughout the 1970s and 1980s, its style changed. It became more athletic. At this time, the general public began to call it break dancing. Since dancers danced when a song took a break from worlds and played only music, the name fit. The focus of the dance grew to include more than just fancy footwork.
Break dancers, also known as b-boys and b-girls, were now doing head-spins, back spins, hand spins and flips.
Break dancing today
Break dancing became less popular from the late 1980s and into the a990s. It was still around but no longer in the spotlight. Today, however, break dancing is back and stronger than ever. The competitions take place all over the world. These modern-day dance battles no longer settle disputes. Instead, they are used to determine the most talented b-boy and b-girls. These dancers' skill and moves are more impressive than ever! People can now be seen breaking into break dancing all over the world.
More Information:
Power moves in Break Dancing.
1. The Windmill: a move where the dancer spins from his back to his chest while twirling his legs in the air.
2. Head-spins: the dancer spins on his head while lifting his hands in the air.
3. Flare: an incredibly difficult move borrowed from men's gymnastics.
4. Jackhammer: when a dancer balances on one hand while spinning and bouncing up and down.
Grammar on the go:
Unlike many styles of dance, break dancing is fairly new. In fact, its history only dates back a few decades.
unlike many styles of dance.
"unlike many"- to bring up something that is very unique from something else.
Unlike most cats, the Turkish Van likes to swim.
Unlike most companies, this company allows its workers to bring their children and pets to work.
Vocabulary Tips:
make one's head spin-暈頭轉向 頭昏眼花, 使人傷腦筋 spin-旋轉
*The roller coaster ride really made our heads spin.
*All of my new work responsibilities really made my head spin.
break new ground- 新天地 新局面 創新ground-地面
*The scientist finally broke new ground in biochemistry after years of hard work 新發現 .
dispute -爭執 爭論 爭吵
*The dispute over the import policy became more and more severe between the two parties.越來越激烈
*The couple's best friend finally helped them resolve their long-lasing dispute.
Chat Room:
hit- 打, 到達, 抵達, 前往, 擊中, 命中目標
B-boy hit the streets of New York City. - "hit" - arrive, appear.
hit the market-在市場上推出 (抵達)
Let's hit the beach-前往海灘
hit the jackpot-中頭獎
a hit- "hit" (n)- 成功而風行一時的事物
Break dancing is a style of dance like no other. The moves are jaw-dropping, and watching dancers performing them will make your head spin. Break dancing takes skill, strength and rhythm. The style combines acrobatics, Kung Fu-like moves and dance to create a totally unique art from. Although its roots are American, today its popularity has spread around the globe.
Break dancing breaks new ground
Unlike many styles of dance, break dancing is fairly new. In fact, its history only dates back a few decades. It all began in 1969 with music superstar James Brown. While singing his hit song "Get on the Good Foot" Brown did a high-energy dance. his "Good Foot" dance caught on and soon this style of dance became known as B-boy. Identified by its quick footwork, B-boy hit the streets of New York City. There, dancers would gather to hold "dance battles." These battles often helped settle disputes between people without using violence.
As B-boy spread throughout the 1970s and 1980s, its style changed. It became more athletic. At this time, the general public began to call it break dancing. Since dancers danced when a song took a break from worlds and played only music, the name fit. The focus of the dance grew to include more than just fancy footwork.
Break dancers, also known as b-boys and b-girls, were now doing head-spins, back spins, hand spins and flips.
Break dancing today
Break dancing became less popular from the late 1980s and into the a990s. It was still around but no longer in the spotlight. Today, however, break dancing is back and stronger than ever. The competitions take place all over the world. These modern-day dance battles no longer settle disputes. Instead, they are used to determine the most talented b-boy and b-girls. These dancers' skill and moves are more impressive than ever! People can now be seen breaking into break dancing all over the world.
More Information:
Power moves in Break Dancing.
1. The Windmill: a move where the dancer spins from his back to his chest while twirling his legs in the air.
2. Head-spins: the dancer spins on his head while lifting his hands in the air.
3. Flare: an incredibly difficult move borrowed from men's gymnastics.
4. Jackhammer: when a dancer balances on one hand while spinning and bouncing up and down.
Grammar on the go:
Unlike many styles of dance, break dancing is fairly new. In fact, its history only dates back a few decades.
unlike many styles of dance.
"unlike many"- to bring up something that is very unique from something else.
Unlike most cats, the Turkish Van likes to swim.
Unlike most companies, this company allows its workers to bring their children and pets to work.
Vocabulary Tips:
make one's head spin-暈頭轉向 頭昏眼花, 使人傷腦筋 spin-旋轉
*The roller coaster ride really made our heads spin.
*All of my new work responsibilities really made my head spin.
break new ground- 新天地 新局面 創新ground-地面
*The scientist finally broke new ground in biochemistry after years of hard work 新發現 .
dispute -爭執 爭論 爭吵
*The dispute over the import policy became more and more severe between the two parties.越來越激烈
*The couple's best friend finally helped them resolve their long-lasing dispute.
Chat Room:
hit- 打, 到達, 抵達, 前往, 擊中, 命中目標
B-boy hit the streets of New York City. - "hit" - arrive, appear.
hit the market-在市場上推出 (抵達)
Let's hit the beach-前往海灘
hit the jackpot-中頭獎
a hit- "hit" (n)- 成功而風行一時的事物
Sunday, November 14, 2010
The World of Work
My First Day第一天上班I learned all kinds of things on the first day of my new job by Joan Yu
I was very excited on my first day of working at a Fortune 500 company. All the new hires assembled in the lobby on a Monday morning. I was surprised to see forty something people there. We were taken to a conference room for a two-hour information session held by the HR, security and IT departments. The session was critical for me to learn how to survive in this new foreign land.
At noon all the hiring managers came to pick us up for lunch in the company cafeteria. After lunch my manager took me to my cubicle and introduced me to the team. He also gave me instructions on how to order office supplies.
The first week, all new hires attended all kinds of classes for work. Because I was coming from a small Chinese company, this was a new experience for me, and I felt nervous and insecure at first. Luckily, I had a good mentor to show me around and introduce me to the cross-functional teams. This would make my life a lot easier down the road. It's not about what you know but who you know-this is true no matter if you work for a Chinese or an American company.
Joan talks to her husband after her first day at work.
Charlie: Hi honey, How was your first day at your dream job?
Joan: It was good but really tiring! There's so much to remember! I had meetings with so many different people and departments. I'm feeling a little overwhelmed right now.
Charlie: Steep learning curve. eh?
Joan: You can say that again. Making the adjustment from a small company to this huge multi-national one is going to take time.
Charlie: But you had a good orientation?
Joan: Yes. I learned a lot, and I asked a lot of questions.
Charlie: Good. That's the best way to learn what's expected of you. Is the same person who is training you going to evaluate your work?
Joan: Yes. That will be my team leader. He is really nice and has given me some helpful hints already.
Charlie: Is he approachable?
Joan: I think so. We hit it off right away, so I think we can work well together.
Charlie: And the rest of your team?
Joan: I met all of them too, and they all seem nice. Hopefully, they'll all be easy to work with.
Charlie: You'll find out soon.
Joan: Not till next week. I have orientation the rest of this week.
Grammar on the go:
I was surprised to see forty something people there.
forty-something-
"something"-do not have exactly the number of the number, but you know about the number range, you may us " something"
I think twenty-something quests are coming to the party.
The winner ate sixty-something hot dogs.
Vocabulary Tips:
assemble-聚集或集合,組合.
*All the trainees need to assemble in the school gym at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow morning.
*Josh assembled the difficult puzzle in two hours.
cubicle-把大空間分隔成很多的小立方體,小隔間 cubic-立方體
*Lillian put a small fish tank in her office cubicle.
*There are five shower cubicles in the changing room. 五個淋浴間
mentor-良師益友,導師,
*Coach Johnson has been Eric's mentor since high school. He taught Eric everything he knows about football.
evaluate-衡量，評估
*The company evaluates their employees each quarter.
*We should evaluate the market before we start advertising the new product.
approachable-可接近的,容易親近的approach-靠近
*Wesley doesn't seem very approachable, but he's really a nice person once you get to know him.
hit it off-相處融洽合得來
*Janet didn't hit it off with Marlene at first, but soon they became good friends.
orientation-in and out the classes to learn more about the company and the job.新生訓練 職員新生訓練
steep learning curve- A difficult tast need patience and hard work to overcome it, it's a long process.
Chat Room
The mentor show me around the office.
show-展示
show someone around-帶某人去參觀一個地方.當他的導遊,或是盡地主之誼帶著參觀
show someone the ropes-教導某人工作上的竅門與作法.
learn the ropes-學會工作的竅門或作法
watch, the rope have to have "s", "ropes" when you use idiom of "show me the ropes, or learn the ropes".
show someone the door-wants people to go out. It is a nice way to ask people leave.指著門請人走路,委婉的請人離開
-----------------------------------
You can say that again-- I agreed what you just said or your opinion. 你說的一直點也不錯It means I agree that, but you don't need to repeat it again.
I'll say = I agree with you. I am agreed what you say. Do not say " I will say." You should say "I'll say"贊同
I was very excited on my first day of working at a Fortune 500 company. All the new hires assembled in the lobby on a Monday morning. I was surprised to see forty something people there. We were taken to a conference room for a two-hour information session held by the HR, security and IT departments. The session was critical for me to learn how to survive in this new foreign land.
At noon all the hiring managers came to pick us up for lunch in the company cafeteria. After lunch my manager took me to my cubicle and introduced me to the team. He also gave me instructions on how to order office supplies.
The first week, all new hires attended all kinds of classes for work. Because I was coming from a small Chinese company, this was a new experience for me, and I felt nervous and insecure at first. Luckily, I had a good mentor to show me around and introduce me to the cross-functional teams. This would make my life a lot easier down the road. It's not about what you know but who you know-this is true no matter if you work for a Chinese or an American company.
Joan talks to her husband after her first day at work.
Charlie: Hi honey, How was your first day at your dream job?
Joan: It was good but really tiring! There's so much to remember! I had meetings with so many different people and departments. I'm feeling a little overwhelmed right now.
Charlie: Steep learning curve. eh?
Joan: You can say that again. Making the adjustment from a small company to this huge multi-national one is going to take time.
Charlie: But you had a good orientation?
Joan: Yes. I learned a lot, and I asked a lot of questions.
Charlie: Good. That's the best way to learn what's expected of you. Is the same person who is training you going to evaluate your work?
Joan: Yes. That will be my team leader. He is really nice and has given me some helpful hints already.
Charlie: Is he approachable?
Joan: I think so. We hit it off right away, so I think we can work well together.
Charlie: And the rest of your team?
Joan: I met all of them too, and they all seem nice. Hopefully, they'll all be easy to work with.
Charlie: You'll find out soon.
Joan: Not till next week. I have orientation the rest of this week.
Grammar on the go:
I was surprised to see forty something people there.
forty-something-
"something"-do not have exactly the number of the number, but you know about the number range, you may us " something"
I think twenty-something quests are coming to the party.
The winner ate sixty-something hot dogs.
Vocabulary Tips:
assemble-聚集或集合,組合.
*All the trainees need to assemble in the school gym at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow morning.
*Josh assembled the difficult puzzle in two hours.
cubicle-把大空間分隔成很多的小立方體,小隔間 cubic-立方體
*Lillian put a small fish tank in her office cubicle.
*There are five shower cubicles in the changing room. 五個淋浴間
mentor-良師益友,導師,
*Coach Johnson has been Eric's mentor since high school. He taught Eric everything he knows about football.
evaluate-衡量，評估
*The company evaluates their employees each quarter.
*We should evaluate the market before we start advertising the new product.
approachable-可接近的,容易親近的approach-靠近
*Wesley doesn't seem very approachable, but he's really a nice person once you get to know him.
hit it off-相處融洽合得來
*Janet didn't hit it off with Marlene at first, but soon they became good friends.
orientation-in and out the classes to learn more about the company and the job.新生訓練 職員新生訓練
steep learning curve- A difficult tast need patience and hard work to overcome it, it's a long process.
Chat Room
The mentor show me around the office.
show-展示
show someone around-帶某人去參觀一個地方.當他的導遊,或是盡地主之誼帶著參觀
show someone the ropes-教導某人工作上的竅門與作法.
learn the ropes-學會工作的竅門或作法
watch, the rope have to have "s", "ropes" when you use idiom of "show me the ropes, or learn the ropes".
show someone the door-wants people to go out. It is a nice way to ask people leave.指著門請人走路,委婉的請人離開
-----------------------------------
You can say that again-- I agreed what you just said or your opinion. 你說的一直點也不錯It means I agree that, but you don't need to repeat it again.
I'll say = I agree with you. I am agreed what you say. Do not say " I will say." You should say "I'll say"贊同
Friday, November 12, 2010
The World RPS Society
世界猜拳協會Making Rock, Paper, Scissors serious business by Chip Ewald
There are two of you and only one piece of candy. Do you risk the friendship by snatching it when your friend isn't looking ? No You settle the matter in a simple way: You play Rock, Paper, Scissors, and everyone is happy.
Countless similar decisions are peacefully resolved this way: Rock crushes scissors; scissors cut paper; paper covers rock. Most think of it as a children's game of luck. But the World Rock Paper Scissors (RPS) Society, based in Toronto, Canada, promotes it as a sport of skill.
What began as a club in 1842 became the World RPS Society in 1925 when it included over 10,000 members. Today, the organization studies and teaches the psychological factors that influence an opponent's choices during a round of three plays. Desiring to promote the sport to a growing international audience, the Society plans conferences and tournaments all over the world. A skillful win can mean big money.
This month last year in Toronto, the 2009 Yahoo! World RPS Championship gave away all over CA $ 10,000 in prize money. Whether you play for money, honor or the last piece of candy, the World RPS Society can help you play to win.
More Information:
The History of Rock, Paper, Scissors. Because the game has evolved over time, its exact origins are debated. Some claim the game originated in Japan in the 2nd century B.C. Others think it may have begun in Northern Europe as early as the 6th century B.C. In any case , the game's simplicity and brilliance seem to reach beyond time and culture.
Grammar on the go:
What began as a club in 1842 became the world RPS Society in 1925 when it included 10,000 members.
=The world RPS Society started out as a club in 1842 and became an organization of 10,000 members in 1925.
"What began as...."- something that was.. and now turned into...
What began as a simple science experiment at the beginning of the summer turned into a departmental research project by the end of the year.
What began as a single-page lesson sheet with an accompanying radio program in 1962 turned into world-wide English teaching program consisting of three magazines radio programs, and two TV shows.
Vocabulary Tips:
snatch-一把搶走,迅速拿走,奪走(抓住機會)
*The bully snatched Patrick's lunch box right out of his hand.
*The Italian team snatched the gold medal from last year's champion.
*Rick snatched two hours of sleep during his flight to New York.
resolve- 解決.
*The couple is willing to resolve their differences by communication more frequently.
*A formal meeting was called to resolve the dispute between shareholders.
round (adj)-圓形的. (n) 指"一輪","一侷", 或是"一個回合"
*The young boxer was knocked out during the fourth round.
*The second round of voting will be held next week.
factor- thing that influence the result.
opponent- 對手,比賽的對手,另一方.
Chat Room:
play-玩
Play your cards right-玩紙牌出牌很高明,演申為"制處理事情很高明,有計謀.
play with fire-玩火,冒險. (玩火自焚)
play games-玩遊戲,也指"捉弄人"
Quit playing games-停止捉弄人.
There are two of you and only one piece of candy. Do you risk the friendship by snatching it when your friend isn't looking ? No You settle the matter in a simple way: You play Rock, Paper, Scissors, and everyone is happy.
Countless similar decisions are peacefully resolved this way: Rock crushes scissors; scissors cut paper; paper covers rock. Most think of it as a children's game of luck. But the World Rock Paper Scissors (RPS) Society, based in Toronto, Canada, promotes it as a sport of skill.
What began as a club in 1842 became the World RPS Society in 1925 when it included over 10,000 members. Today, the organization studies and teaches the psychological factors that influence an opponent's choices during a round of three plays. Desiring to promote the sport to a growing international audience, the Society plans conferences and tournaments all over the world. A skillful win can mean big money.
This month last year in Toronto, the 2009 Yahoo! World RPS Championship gave away all over CA $ 10,000 in prize money. Whether you play for money, honor or the last piece of candy, the World RPS Society can help you play to win.
More Information:
The History of Rock, Paper, Scissors. Because the game has evolved over time, its exact origins are debated. Some claim the game originated in Japan in the 2nd century B.C. Others think it may have begun in Northern Europe as early as the 6th century B.C. In any case , the game's simplicity and brilliance seem to reach beyond time and culture.
Grammar on the go:
What began as a club in 1842 became the world RPS Society in 1925 when it included 10,000 members.
=The world RPS Society started out as a club in 1842 and became an organization of 10,000 members in 1925.
"What began as...."- something that was.. and now turned into...
What began as a simple science experiment at the beginning of the summer turned into a departmental research project by the end of the year.
What began as a single-page lesson sheet with an accompanying radio program in 1962 turned into world-wide English teaching program consisting of three magazines radio programs, and two TV shows.
Vocabulary Tips:
snatch-一把搶走,迅速拿走,奪走(抓住機會)
*The bully snatched Patrick's lunch box right out of his hand.
*The Italian team snatched the gold medal from last year's champion.
*Rick snatched two hours of sleep during his flight to New York.
resolve- 解決.
*The couple is willing to resolve their differences by communication more frequently.
*A formal meeting was called to resolve the dispute between shareholders.
round (adj)-圓形的. (n) 指"一輪","一侷", 或是"一個回合"
*The young boxer was knocked out during the fourth round.
*The second round of voting will be held next week.
factor- thing that influence the result.
opponent- 對手,比賽的對手,另一方.
Chat Room:
play-玩
Play your cards right-玩紙牌出牌很高明,演申為"制處理事情很高明,有計謀.
play with fire-玩火,冒險. (玩火自焚)
play games-玩遊戲,也指"捉弄人"
Quit playing games-停止捉弄人.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Asia Competes
亞洲競賽Guangzhou (廣州) hosts the 16th Asian Games 第十六屆亞運由廣州主辦 by Simon Stopps
From today until Nov.27, Guangzhou, China, will host the 16th Asian Games. With 45 teams competing in 42 sports, this will be the biggest Asian Games ever!
The Asian Games feature a mixture of many different kinds of sports. Twenty-eight of them are Olympic sports while others are uniquely Asian. Some sports, like karate, dragon boat racing and wushu are familiar to Asian sports fans. Others will be less well-known. These games will give fans the chance to watch sepak takraw, a Malaysian ball game. They can also see kabbadi, an exciting team sport from South Asia.
The city has worked hard to get ready for these games. An emblem and mascots based on goats have been chosen for the games. The energetic cartoon mascots are five goats competing in various sports. Moreover, 11 new and 32 rebuilt stadiums have been prepared to hold sports events.
Guangzhou doesn't just want these to be the biggest Asian Games ever. The city also wants them to be the best!
Grammar on the go:
Twenty-eight of them are Olympic sports, while others are uniquely Asian.
uniquely Asian-
Although Jenny thought every wedding dress in the store was pretty, she found one that was uniquely elegant.
If you're looking for some uniquely aboriginal artwork, you can try looking in the gift shop.
Vocabulary tips:
compete (v)-競爭,對抗,比賽, 與某對象用 "with" or "against".
*All graduates will go on to compete with each other in the job market.
*It's hard for small, family-owned grocery stores to compete against giant supermarkets.
feature-以某個對象或事物為特色.
*The charity concert features the most popular pop singers and bands.請來...對象..
*The movie features Tom Cruise as a secret agent. 領銜主演
mascot- 吉祥物, 或是扮演吉祥物的人
*Our football team's mascot is a ram.
*Bobby will try out to become the basketball team's mascot today.
emblem- a picture or an object that use to represent something else.
Chat Room:
a good sport-不是指一個好的運動
a good sport-指"有好的運動員風度的人,無論比賽輸贏,都很有風度.常用來形容"一個人有雅量,開得起玩笑的人."
a poor sport=a sore loser-是指"沒有雅量,輸不起的人"
From today until Nov.27, Guangzhou, China, will host the 16th Asian Games. With 45 teams competing in 42 sports, this will be the biggest Asian Games ever!
The Asian Games feature a mixture of many different kinds of sports. Twenty-eight of them are Olympic sports while others are uniquely Asian. Some sports, like karate, dragon boat racing and wushu are familiar to Asian sports fans. Others will be less well-known. These games will give fans the chance to watch sepak takraw, a Malaysian ball game. They can also see kabbadi, an exciting team sport from South Asia.
The city has worked hard to get ready for these games. An emblem and mascots based on goats have been chosen for the games. The energetic cartoon mascots are five goats competing in various sports. Moreover, 11 new and 32 rebuilt stadiums have been prepared to hold sports events.
Guangzhou doesn't just want these to be the biggest Asian Games ever. The city also wants them to be the best!
Grammar on the go:
Twenty-eight of them are Olympic sports, while others are uniquely Asian.
uniquely Asian-
Although Jenny thought every wedding dress in the store was pretty, she found one that was uniquely elegant.
If you're looking for some uniquely aboriginal artwork, you can try looking in the gift shop.
Vocabulary tips:
compete (v)-競爭,對抗,比賽, 與某對象用 "with" or "against".
*All graduates will go on to compete with each other in the job market.
*It's hard for small, family-owned grocery stores to compete against giant supermarkets.
feature-以某個對象或事物為特色.
*The charity concert features the most popular pop singers and bands.請來...對象..
*The movie features Tom Cruise as a secret agent. 領銜主演
mascot- 吉祥物, 或是扮演吉祥物的人
*Our football team's mascot is a ram.
*Bobby will try out to become the basketball team's mascot today.
emblem- a picture or an object that use to represent something else.
Chat Room:
a good sport-不是指一個好的運動
a good sport-指"有好的運動員風度的人,無論比賽輸贏,都很有風度.常用來形容"一個人有雅量,開得起玩笑的人."
a poor sport=a sore loser-是指"沒有雅量,輸不起的人"
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Behind the Scenes with Sandra
螢光幕後的珊卓?布拉克American actress Sandra Bullock shines on and off the screen by Chelsea Ewald
In just 20 years, Sandra Bullock has been an undercover FBI agent, a homicide detective and a bus driver who saves the day. But it's not just her popular movie roles that have earned the 46-year-old actress scores of adoring fans. Off screen she has been commended for her girl-next-door smile, her down-to-earth approachability, her generous, philanthropic spirit and her likable personality. Known as "America's Sweetheart," Bullock is one Hollywood star that shines brightly.
Growing up
Born to a German, opera-singing mother and an American, vocal coach father, Bullock grew up around talent. Having performers for parents nurtured her creative drive and propelled her onto the stage. By age 12, Bullock was singing in a children's choir and studying ballet in Nuremberg, Germany, where her family lived at the time. During these years, Bullock also accompanied her mother on several opera tours throughout Europe. All the while, her passion for performance was growing. When her family returned to the United States. Bullock completed high school and enrolled in a university. Three credits short of graduation, however, Bullock left school and headed to New York in 1986 to pursue her dream of becoming an actress.
At home in Hollywood
Three years later with a few minor roles to her name, Bullock left New York for Los Angeles in hopes of findings success in Hollywood. She finally got her big break when she co-starred in 1994's action-packed thriller Speed. Soon after, Sandra Bullock became both a household name and sought-after actress. Movie-role offers poured in, and Bullock's celebrity soared. Fans and critics alike praised bullock's versatility as an actress.
After a string of successful films including While You Were Sleeping. Miss Congeniality, Hope Floats and the award-winning Crash, Bullock received the opportunity of a lifetime. And she almost turned it down.
Bullock gets blindsided
Bullock was initially terrified of portraying Leigh Anne Tuohy, the woman whose true story is the basis of the highly acclaimed film The Blind Side. Bullock didn't know if she could do justice to the demanding role. Finally, after nearly a year of trying to persuade her, the film's director convinced Bullock to take the role. Bullock wowed both critics and fans with her performance and went on to win 2010's coveted Academy Award for Best Actress. And with that, Bullock's star shines more brightly than ever.
More Information:
Sandra Bullock Fast Facts:
1. While filming 1996's Two if by Sea, Bullock discovered that she is allergic to horses.
2. Although American by birth, Bullock is also a German citizen and is fluent in German.
3. In the marketing of 2009's The Blind Side, Bullock became the only actress to date to have her name appear solely above the movie's title. No other actors names were included.
Grammar on the Go:
Three credits short of graduation, however, Bullock left school and headed to New York...
short of = less than
Sally is $200 short of qualifying for a VIP card.
Paul was two points short of getting an A.
Vocabulary Tips:
commend- 稱讚，讚揚．．．什麽用 "for"
*Teresa was commended for her generosity toward those in need.
*The teacher commended Sam for his perseverance.
*This photographer is highly commended in his field.
approachability-（不可數名詞）平易近人，有親和力的approach- 接近
*His approachability makes him a successful sales representative.
*The employees respect their boss for his dependability and approachability.
nurture-培育，養育
*The new mother nurtured her baby with much love and care.
*Students need to be nurtured in an environment that provides intellectual stimulation.
to one's name-belong to something 在自己名下或屬自己所有。
*The young pop star had several hit songs to her name.熱賣的歌是屬於她自己的
*The poor lady only has one coat to her name.只有一件大衣是她所擁有。
versatility-多才多藝，多彩多姿的，多樣性，多樣化。vers-有“轉向”之意。
*The musician's versatility shows in his ability to compose jazz, classical and even pop music.多才多藝
*The versatility of the exhibition was highly praised by many visitors.多種多樣的展示
blindside-出奇不意，攻其不備，偷襲something unexpected, or can't see, or not having any idea or experience of something.
*One of the robbers blindsided the security guard and wounded him in the process.
*The actor was blindsided by the reporter's personal question and didn't know how to respond.
Chat Room
Scores of adoring fans-很多的擁戴者.
score-球賽的比數
What was the score of the game?
scores -l許多的,大量的.要用複數，加＂s＂－ large numbers.
scores of books-很多的書
scores of people- 很多的人
score-表示＂２０＂ number "twenty"
"four score and seven years ago" in Lincoln speech on 1863, four of 20 plus 7 is 87, eighty seven years ago from the day of U.S.A independence which is year 1676.
-----------------------------------------
finally got her big break-大突破，幸運來臨。
break-破開，破除，也有“幸運”之意，或是“表示闖入，非法侵入”
break in-被闖入，遭小偷。
make your big break-付出行動，試圖要闖出一番天。
break in-也指“使新衣褲，新鞋變得舒適合身，合腳，就是多穿它們，使之僵硬的質感變柔軟。
break them (those shoes) in by walking them a lot.
break in a new shirt.
In just 20 years, Sandra Bullock has been an undercover FBI agent, a homicide detective and a bus driver who saves the day. But it's not just her popular movie roles that have earned the 46-year-old actress scores of adoring fans. Off screen she has been commended for her girl-next-door smile, her down-to-earth approachability, her generous, philanthropic spirit and her likable personality. Known as "America's Sweetheart," Bullock is one Hollywood star that shines brightly.
Growing up
Born to a German, opera-singing mother and an American, vocal coach father, Bullock grew up around talent. Having performers for parents nurtured her creative drive and propelled her onto the stage. By age 12, Bullock was singing in a children's choir and studying ballet in Nuremberg, Germany, where her family lived at the time. During these years, Bullock also accompanied her mother on several opera tours throughout Europe. All the while, her passion for performance was growing. When her family returned to the United States. Bullock completed high school and enrolled in a university. Three credits short of graduation, however, Bullock left school and headed to New York in 1986 to pursue her dream of becoming an actress.
At home in Hollywood
Three years later with a few minor roles to her name, Bullock left New York for Los Angeles in hopes of findings success in Hollywood. She finally got her big break when she co-starred in 1994's action-packed thriller Speed. Soon after, Sandra Bullock became both a household name and sought-after actress. Movie-role offers poured in, and Bullock's celebrity soared. Fans and critics alike praised bullock's versatility as an actress.
After a string of successful films including While You Were Sleeping. Miss Congeniality, Hope Floats and the award-winning Crash, Bullock received the opportunity of a lifetime. And she almost turned it down.
Bullock gets blindsided
Bullock was initially terrified of portraying Leigh Anne Tuohy, the woman whose true story is the basis of the highly acclaimed film The Blind Side. Bullock didn't know if she could do justice to the demanding role. Finally, after nearly a year of trying to persuade her, the film's director convinced Bullock to take the role. Bullock wowed both critics and fans with her performance and went on to win 2010's coveted Academy Award for Best Actress. And with that, Bullock's star shines more brightly than ever.
More Information:
Sandra Bullock Fast Facts:
1. While filming 1996's Two if by Sea, Bullock discovered that she is allergic to horses.
2. Although American by birth, Bullock is also a German citizen and is fluent in German.
3. In the marketing of 2009's The Blind Side, Bullock became the only actress to date to have her name appear solely above the movie's title. No other actors names were included.
Grammar on the Go:
Three credits short of graduation, however, Bullock left school and headed to New York...
short of = less than
Sally is $200 short of qualifying for a VIP card.
Paul was two points short of getting an A.
Vocabulary Tips:
commend- 稱讚，讚揚．．．什麽用 "for"
*Teresa was commended for her generosity toward those in need.
*The teacher commended Sam for his perseverance.
*This photographer is highly commended in his field.
approachability-（不可數名詞）平易近人，有親和力的approach- 接近
*His approachability makes him a successful sales representative.
*The employees respect their boss for his dependability and approachability.
nurture-培育，養育
*The new mother nurtured her baby with much love and care.
*Students need to be nurtured in an environment that provides intellectual stimulation.
to one's name-belong to something 在自己名下或屬自己所有。
*The young pop star had several hit songs to her name.熱賣的歌是屬於她自己的
*The poor lady only has one coat to her name.只有一件大衣是她所擁有。
versatility-多才多藝，多彩多姿的，多樣性，多樣化。vers-有“轉向”之意。
*The musician's versatility shows in his ability to compose jazz, classical and even pop music.多才多藝
*The versatility of the exhibition was highly praised by many visitors.多種多樣的展示
blindside-出奇不意，攻其不備，偷襲something unexpected, or can't see, or not having any idea or experience of something.
*One of the robbers blindsided the security guard and wounded him in the process.
*The actor was blindsided by the reporter's personal question and didn't know how to respond.
Chat Room
Scores of adoring fans-很多的擁戴者.
score-球賽的比數
What was the score of the game?
scores -l許多的,大量的.要用複數，加＂s＂－ large numbers.
scores of books-很多的書
scores of people- 很多的人
score-表示＂２０＂ number "twenty"
"four score and seven years ago" in Lincoln speech on 1863, four of 20 plus 7 is 87, eighty seven years ago from the day of U.S.A independence which is year 1676.
-----------------------------------------
finally got her big break-大突破，幸運來臨。
break-破開，破除，也有“幸運”之意，或是“表示闖入，非法侵入”
break in-被闖入，遭小偷。
make your big break-付出行動，試圖要闖出一番天。
break in-也指“使新衣褲，新鞋變得舒適合身，合腳，就是多穿它們，使之僵硬的質感變柔軟。
break them (those shoes) in by walking them a lot.
break in a new shirt.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Special Tips
Grammar on the go:
I'm not sure how healthy it is.
I'm not sure-
if you don't agree with someone or something, you don't want to say the word to direct, you may say " I'm not sure...."
Instead of say "No, it's ugly" you may say "The color is nice, but I'm not sure if the style fits you"
Instead of say "You're wrong. He did not say that." You may say "I'm not sure if that's what he said."
Vocabulary Tips:
Do without it-
habitat-居住地
to be stress out by someone or to be stress someone out by something.
stress somebody out-讓某人承受很大的壓力。stress-加壓力，使某人緊張。
*The quarrel between Tom and his wife stressed him out so much that he couldn't even sleep.
*The new project was very time consuming and really stressed us out.
breed (v)-使繁殖，育種 (n) 動植物的品種
*Larry specializes in breeding (v) poodles.繁殖貴嬪狗的專家
*The researches spent years trying to figure out a way breed (v) the endangered butterfly species.
*My favorite breed (n) of dog is Labrador.最喜愛的狗品種是（拉不拉多犬）
vital- 重要不可或缺的。essential, critical, important. vit-字根是與“生命”有關的
*Capable employees are vital to a company's success. 非常重要的
*Strong will is vital for survival in such a competitive society. 堅強的意志力。。
wholesome-有益的，有益於健康的 good for your whole being.
*Mom's wholesome home-cooked meals are quite famous around the neighborhood.
*The new Disney movie is good wholesome family entertainment.
regulate-管理，控管。
*The proposal aims to regulate the rise of oil prices.
*There are laws that regulate the usage of chemicals in household detergents.
regulate-校對，控制機械的速度
*Greenhouse temperatures are regulated periodically to ensure the plants are healthy.
replicated-複製
*The interior of the artist's studio was replicated in the museum.
*Picasso's artwork has been replicated by many.
Chat Room
wild animals-野生動物
the wild-野生的
wild-荒野，野生的，
也指“荒誕不經的，荒謬絕倫，荒唐的，胡亂諏的
take a wild guess-瞎猜的，亂猜一同的。
make wild accusations-不着邊際的指控。
-----------------------------
Theme park-主題公園
aquarium-水族館,水族箱 aqua-水
petting zoo-給小朋友可近處觸摸動物的動物園(溫良的動物)
pet-用手摸或碰的.
domestic animals-家畜.
I'm not sure how healthy it is.
I'm not sure-
if you don't agree with someone or something, you don't want to say the word to direct, you may say " I'm not sure...."
Instead of say "No, it's ugly" you may say "The color is nice, but I'm not sure if the style fits you"
Instead of say "You're wrong. He did not say that." You may say "I'm not sure if that's what he said."
Vocabulary Tips:
Do without it-
habitat-居住地
to be stress out by someone or to be stress someone out by something.
stress somebody out-讓某人承受很大的壓力。stress-加壓力，使某人緊張。
*The quarrel between Tom and his wife stressed him out so much that he couldn't even sleep.
*The new project was very time consuming and really stressed us out.
breed (v)-使繁殖，育種 (n) 動植物的品種
*Larry specializes in breeding (v) poodles.繁殖貴嬪狗的專家
*The researches spent years trying to figure out a way breed (v) the endangered butterfly species.
*My favorite breed (n) of dog is Labrador.最喜愛的狗品種是（拉不拉多犬）
vital- 重要不可或缺的。essential, critical, important. vit-字根是與“生命”有關的
*Capable employees are vital to a company's success. 非常重要的
*Strong will is vital for survival in such a competitive society. 堅強的意志力。。
wholesome-有益的，有益於健康的 good for your whole being.
*Mom's wholesome home-cooked meals are quite famous around the neighborhood.
*The new Disney movie is good wholesome family entertainment.
regulate-管理，控管。
*The proposal aims to regulate the rise of oil prices.
*There are laws that regulate the usage of chemicals in household detergents.
regulate-校對，控制機械的速度
*Greenhouse temperatures are regulated periodically to ensure the plants are healthy.
replicated-複製
*The interior of the artist's studio was replicated in the museum.
*Picasso's artwork has been replicated by many.
Chat Room
wild animals-野生動物
the wild-野生的
wild-荒野，野生的，
也指“荒誕不經的，荒謬絕倫，荒唐的，胡亂諏的
take a wild guess-瞎猜的，亂猜一同的。
make wild accusations-不着邊際的指控。
-----------------------------
Theme park-主題公園
aquarium-水族館,水族箱 aqua-水
petting zoo-給小朋友可近處觸摸動物的動物園(溫良的動物)
pet-用手摸或碰的.
domestic animals-家畜.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The 2010 Taipei International Flora Expo
二○一○台北花博A plant-lover’s dream comes true 植物熱愛者的美夢成真by Chip Ewald
Whether you love plants or just appreciate their benefits, you'll enjoy this special flora exposition. From now until late April 2011, Taipei is hosting the 2010 Taipei International Flora Expo.
Enjoying the Expo
The Expo area consists of four beautiful parks, totaling over 900,000 square meters. The 14 pavilions and buildings in these parks give visitors many opportunities to enjoy nature's beauty indoors. Live shows and films will feature art, culture and the natural world.
The expo will be both exciting and educational for people. A sea of flowers -22,000 square meters of colorful blooms in total-will amaze visitors. This includes the largest floral garden, which covers 9,323 square meters! Bonsais that are over a century old will prompt respect from the young and old. A 12,000-square-meter global garden presents exhibits by cities and gardening organizations from around the world. High-tech displays throughout the expo will help guests learn about the complex lives of flowers and butterflies. Also, flora-inspired fashion shows will show how nature's beauty mixes with the fashion world.
"Greening" the city:
Many Asian flora expos have been held outside city centers - in suburbs. But people everywhere are showing a desire for more urban green spaces. So Taipei is making sure this expo takes place in the heart of the city.
International events like this greatly benefit the host. Taipei expects 8 million visitors during the six-month expo. As a result, some think this event will produce NT$16.8 billion in economic benefits. City officials, however, are not simply eager for the extra income. They hope the expo transforms Taipei's soul and changes Taipei into a "garden city."
Transforming more than Taipei, the Flora Expo aims to encourage all visitors to become more eco-friendly. The pavilions themselves are green. For example. the Far Eastern Eco ARK Pavilion uses solar power for some of its energy. Expo planners want international visitors to return home a little more "green." They also hope visitors take with them a deeper appreciation of nature and passion to protect it.
More Information:
The logo for the Taipei International Flora Expo looks like five dancing flower petals. Each petal flows with a pattern of moving lines, representing the joy and harmony of human celebrations and shared values. each of the five logo colors.- blue, green, red, orange and purple - Represents a different continent. The bright colors also hint at the cheerful atmosphere that will characterize the expo.
Grammar on the go:
Expo planners want international visitors to return home a little more green.
"subject + verb + description of the attitude."- a mindful attitude.
use this pattern to talk about the thoughts or feelings of someone to do something.
The salesman went through a whole day without selling one single thing; he returned home frustrated.
Sara approached her manager's office a bit confused; she didn't know it she was in trouble or not.
Vocabulary Tips:
benefits-好處，利益。 bene-字根有“好”的意思，
*Flexible working hours is one of the benefits of working at home.
*The benefits of the new health policy are explained very clearly in this article.
pavilion-展示舘，臨時搭建的棚子。展覽館，展覽厛，涼亭。
*Each pavilion is equipped with ATMs and payphones. 都裝有。。
*The park's large pavilion includes a playground and water fountain.
*The African pavilion attract many visitors.
bloom (n)-花朵
*The artist painted the beautiful blooms of spring flowers.劃出春天美麗的花朵
bloom-（當不可數名詞時）意思是“花開的狀態”
*The lilies are in full bloom now. 勝開著
bloom (v)-開花
*The tulips are blooming in the garden.
economic-經濟的
*The enterprise's bankruptcy triggered a national economic crisis.
*Political instability is hindering the country's economic development.
economical-有經濟效益的,節省的.
*economical cars. 省油車
eco-friendly-環保的,與自然生態無害的. eco- 與環境,生態有關的friendly-友善的
*The company only uses eco-friendly material for its packaging.
*Mom recently switched to an eco-friendly laundry detergent.
appreciation (n)-感激,欣賞,讚賞,喜歡appreciate (v)-感激,欣賞,喜歡,領會
*The students gave their teacher a bouquet of flowers to show their appreciation.
*kate's appreciation of music was inspired by her father, who was a pianist.對音樂的讚賞喜歡..(inspired-源自于, 起源于)
Chat Room:
Bonsais that are over a century old will prompt respect...
prompt -促使
prompt someone to do something-促使某人做某事
The traffic noise prompted me to shut the window.促使我関窗。
prompt (adj)-立刻，及時，馬上
prompt reply-立即囘復（對方，不叫對方等待）
prompt-凖時
Please be prompt.-請凖時
promptly (adv.)- add "ly" to prompt-時間凖時
I arrived promptly at 8:00 我八點凖時抵達。
---------------------------------------
florist-花商, 种花的人
ring bearer-捧婚戒的小男孩
flower girl-花童,指小女孩兒手捧花籃的女花童 toss out the flower from the basket to make a way for bride.
the bouquet toss-western costume, at the end of the wedding, the bride toss her bouquet, whoever get it will be the next person to get married.
Whether you love plants or just appreciate their benefits, you'll enjoy this special flora exposition. From now until late April 2011, Taipei is hosting the 2010 Taipei International Flora Expo.
Enjoying the Expo
The Expo area consists of four beautiful parks, totaling over 900,000 square meters. The 14 pavilions and buildings in these parks give visitors many opportunities to enjoy nature's beauty indoors. Live shows and films will feature art, culture and the natural world.
The expo will be both exciting and educational for people. A sea of flowers -22,000 square meters of colorful blooms in total-will amaze visitors. This includes the largest floral garden, which covers 9,323 square meters! Bonsais that are over a century old will prompt respect from the young and old. A 12,000-square-meter global garden presents exhibits by cities and gardening organizations from around the world. High-tech displays throughout the expo will help guests learn about the complex lives of flowers and butterflies. Also, flora-inspired fashion shows will show how nature's beauty mixes with the fashion world.
"Greening" the city:
Many Asian flora expos have been held outside city centers - in suburbs. But people everywhere are showing a desire for more urban green spaces. So Taipei is making sure this expo takes place in the heart of the city.
International events like this greatly benefit the host. Taipei expects 8 million visitors during the six-month expo. As a result, some think this event will produce NT$16.8 billion in economic benefits. City officials, however, are not simply eager for the extra income. They hope the expo transforms Taipei's soul and changes Taipei into a "garden city."
Transforming more than Taipei, the Flora Expo aims to encourage all visitors to become more eco-friendly. The pavilions themselves are green. For example. the Far Eastern Eco ARK Pavilion uses solar power for some of its energy. Expo planners want international visitors to return home a little more "green." They also hope visitors take with them a deeper appreciation of nature and passion to protect it.
More Information:
The logo for the Taipei International Flora Expo looks like five dancing flower petals. Each petal flows with a pattern of moving lines, representing the joy and harmony of human celebrations and shared values. each of the five logo colors.- blue, green, red, orange and purple - Represents a different continent. The bright colors also hint at the cheerful atmosphere that will characterize the expo.
Grammar on the go:
Expo planners want international visitors to return home a little more green.
"subject + verb + description of the attitude."- a mindful attitude.
use this pattern to talk about the thoughts or feelings of someone to do something.
The salesman went through a whole day without selling one single thing; he returned home frustrated.
Sara approached her manager's office a bit confused; she didn't know it she was in trouble or not.
Vocabulary Tips:
benefits-好處，利益。 bene-字根有“好”的意思，
*Flexible working hours is one of the benefits of working at home.
*The benefits of the new health policy are explained very clearly in this article.
pavilion-展示舘，臨時搭建的棚子。展覽館，展覽厛，涼亭。
*Each pavilion is equipped with ATMs and payphones. 都裝有。。
*The park's large pavilion includes a playground and water fountain.
*The African pavilion attract many visitors.
bloom (n)-花朵
*The artist painted the beautiful blooms of spring flowers.劃出春天美麗的花朵
bloom-（當不可數名詞時）意思是“花開的狀態”
*The lilies are in full bloom now. 勝開著
bloom (v)-開花
*The tulips are blooming in the garden.
economic-經濟的
*The enterprise's bankruptcy triggered a national economic crisis.
*Political instability is hindering the country's economic development.
economical-有經濟效益的,節省的.
*economical cars. 省油車
eco-friendly-環保的,與自然生態無害的. eco- 與環境,生態有關的friendly-友善的
*The company only uses eco-friendly material for its packaging.
*Mom recently switched to an eco-friendly laundry detergent.
appreciation (n)-感激,欣賞,讚賞,喜歡appreciate (v)-感激,欣賞,喜歡,領會
*The students gave their teacher a bouquet of flowers to show their appreciation.
*kate's appreciation of music was inspired by her father, who was a pianist.對音樂的讚賞喜歡..(inspired-源自于, 起源于)
Chat Room:
Bonsais that are over a century old will prompt respect...
prompt -促使
prompt someone to do something-促使某人做某事
The traffic noise prompted me to shut the window.促使我関窗。
prompt (adj)-立刻，及時，馬上
prompt reply-立即囘復（對方，不叫對方等待）
prompt-凖時
Please be prompt.-請凖時
promptly (adv.)- add "ly" to prompt-時間凖時
I arrived promptly at 8:00 我八點凖時抵達。
---------------------------------------
florist-花商, 种花的人
ring bearer-捧婚戒的小男孩
flower girl-花童,指小女孩兒手捧花籃的女花童 toss out the flower from the basket to make a way for bride.
the bouquet toss-western costume, at the end of the wedding, the bride toss her bouquet, whoever get it will be the next person to get married.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Dance Is Going to the Dogs
跳舞吧，狗狗!Who let the dogs out – onto the dance floor? by Hazel Johansen
Dancing has a new twist. It's dancing with your dog! This new sport, which is called canine freestyle, features handlers and their dogs performing routines to music. This dancing craze got its start in Canada about 20 years ago. the idea quickly spread to England and then to the United States. now canine freestyle is popular with dog lovers worldwide. The World Canine Freestyle Organization (WCFO) is one of several clubs that promotes this sport. It hosts international events where members meet and compete, and it also offers video competitions
Moves
Everyone knows it takes two to tango. That typically holds true in canine freestyle. Both partners have to keep in step, and the human takes the lead as the team prepares to compete. owners teach their dogs a number of various moves. Heeling, spinning, weaving and jumping are some basic skills of the sport! Once mastered, moves are combined to create a one-of-a-kind routine. Putting together a qualifying performance takes patience, practice and a real pet-person partnership.
Music
Music plays a big part in canine freestyle because lively poodles and laid-back Labradors march to different beat. Finding a good musical match for canine and handler is key to a successful routine. Music sets the mood, and freestyle participants dress accordingly. Jazzy tunes require top hats and canes. Country music means cowboy western wear and bandannas. Freestyle clubs have separate divisions for different age groups and various levels from first-timers to the advanced. Seniors and disabled teams are also encouraged to participate.
There are also classes for handlers with several dogs. The more the merrier! The term "freestyle" gives the idea that anything goes, but that's not exactly true while creativity is encouraged, rules still apply. At this time, rules differ among clubs. Those who wish to compete should select the organization that suit them and their dog best.
Not every dog can be the belle of the ball. But one thing's for sure, dancing with dogs creates special bonds- bonds that extend beyond the dance floor. That makes every team a winner!
Grammar on the go:
That typically holds true in canine freestyle.
to hold true=applies, hold good.
Eighty years ago, this foundation was started to help children of immigrants; today, this still holds true in the foundation.
The employees are expected to follow company rules throughout the day, but do the rules still hold true if employees work on weekends.
Although the witness is blind, his testimony on what he heard during the robbery still holds good in court.
My father's promise to buy me a cell phone holds good as long as I get good grades in school.
Vocabulary Tips:
handler-訓練師,操作員a person who taking and leading dogs what to do. handle-處理,操作 *Police dog handlers must be highly qualified.
*The airport baggage handler is checking one of the carousels for your lost suitcase.
it takes two to tango-一個巴掌拍不嚮 tango need two people to dance, two involved.
*Sean claimed that his classmate started the fight, but takes two to tango.
*Sally blamed Jessica for stealing her boyfriend but was quickly reminded that it takes two to tango.
put together-放在一起,調在一塊兒,調配起來
*It takes a tremendous amount of time and effort to put together a musical.
*Putting together a great meal is one of Naomi's talents.
heel-walk close to our feet, heel is the back bottom of a foot.
heeling- walk close to you, close to your heel, or just behind you heel.
spinning- making or turn in circle.
weaving-go under or go through between two legs.彎來彎去, 從兩腿之間穿過.
twist-turn to it, or something you don't expect.
going to the dog- getting worst, going down the hill. out of fashion, business not doing well.
canine- is formal way to say "dog"
craze-popular
Chat Room
Seeing eye dog-guide dog-導盲犬
hearing dog-導聾犬
service dog-其他用途的狗
---------------------------------
Country music means cowboy western wear and bandannas.
wear-(v)穿- (n)-穿着服飾，
Cowboy western wear-西部牛籽裝
menswear-男裝
women's ware-女裝
sleepwear=night gown-睡袍，女生睡覺時穿的衣服
evening wear=evening gown-晚禮服，女性穿的正式的晚宴禮服。
Dancing has a new twist. It's dancing with your dog! This new sport, which is called canine freestyle, features handlers and their dogs performing routines to music. This dancing craze got its start in Canada about 20 years ago. the idea quickly spread to England and then to the United States. now canine freestyle is popular with dog lovers worldwide. The World Canine Freestyle Organization (WCFO) is one of several clubs that promotes this sport. It hosts international events where members meet and compete, and it also offers video competitions
Moves
Everyone knows it takes two to tango. That typically holds true in canine freestyle. Both partners have to keep in step, and the human takes the lead as the team prepares to compete. owners teach their dogs a number of various moves. Heeling, spinning, weaving and jumping are some basic skills of the sport! Once mastered, moves are combined to create a one-of-a-kind routine. Putting together a qualifying performance takes patience, practice and a real pet-person partnership.
Music
Music plays a big part in canine freestyle because lively poodles and laid-back Labradors march to different beat. Finding a good musical match for canine and handler is key to a successful routine. Music sets the mood, and freestyle participants dress accordingly. Jazzy tunes require top hats and canes. Country music means cowboy western wear and bandannas. Freestyle clubs have separate divisions for different age groups and various levels from first-timers to the advanced. Seniors and disabled teams are also encouraged to participate.
There are also classes for handlers with several dogs. The more the merrier! The term "freestyle" gives the idea that anything goes, but that's not exactly true while creativity is encouraged, rules still apply. At this time, rules differ among clubs. Those who wish to compete should select the organization that suit them and their dog best.
Not every dog can be the belle of the ball. But one thing's for sure, dancing with dogs creates special bonds- bonds that extend beyond the dance floor. That makes every team a winner!
Grammar on the go:
That typically holds true in canine freestyle.
to hold true=applies, hold good.
Eighty years ago, this foundation was started to help children of immigrants; today, this still holds true in the foundation.
The employees are expected to follow company rules throughout the day, but do the rules still hold true if employees work on weekends.
Although the witness is blind, his testimony on what he heard during the robbery still holds good in court.
My father's promise to buy me a cell phone holds good as long as I get good grades in school.
Vocabulary Tips:
handler-訓練師,操作員a person who taking and leading dogs what to do. handle-處理,操作 *Police dog handlers must be highly qualified.
*The airport baggage handler is checking one of the carousels for your lost suitcase.
it takes two to tango-一個巴掌拍不嚮 tango need two people to dance, two involved.
*Sean claimed that his classmate started the fight, but takes two to tango.
*Sally blamed Jessica for stealing her boyfriend but was quickly reminded that it takes two to tango.
put together-放在一起,調在一塊兒,調配起來
*It takes a tremendous amount of time and effort to put together a musical.
*Putting together a great meal is one of Naomi's talents.
heel-walk close to our feet, heel is the back bottom of a foot.
heeling- walk close to you, close to your heel, or just behind you heel.
spinning- making or turn in circle.
weaving-go under or go through between two legs.彎來彎去, 從兩腿之間穿過.
twist-turn to it, or something you don't expect.
going to the dog- getting worst, going down the hill. out of fashion, business not doing well.
canine- is formal way to say "dog"
craze-popular
laid-back=放鬆，優哉游哉。攸閑
*The laid-back atmosphere of the resort makes guests want to stay longer.
*George has a very laid-back personality. he never lets pressure and stress get to him.
disable-生理，身體或智力上的缺欠（失）dis-否定的字根able- 可以的
*The hospital is equipped with facilities that are designed for disabled patients.
*The theatre doesn't have special access for the disabled.
*the disabled- add "the" means disability people.
*The Special Olympics is a large sporting competition for the disabled.
"be the belle of the ball"-艷冠群芳。成爲舞會中最漂亮的女性。
*After a successful makeover, Vanessa became last night's belle of the ball at the party.成功的改造。。。成爲舞會中最漂亮的女性
*Whenever Samantha appears, she is always the belle of the ball.艷冠群芳
march to different beat- pace in different speed, or doing things different with others.
accordingly-協調，依據。
bandanna- colorful handkerchief, colorful square shape scarf.
bond-"tie" very close in relationship.
extend beyond-go much father, go much over than.. "beyond" is pass.
"the more the merrier" (idiom)- the more something, and the more happy.
Chat Room
Seeing eye dog-guide dog-導盲犬
hearing dog-導聾犬
service dog-其他用途的狗
---------------------------------
Country music means cowboy western wear and bandannas.
wear-(v)穿- (n)-穿着服飾，
Cowboy western wear-西部牛籽裝
menswear-男裝
women's ware-女裝
sleepwear=night gown-睡袍，女生睡覺時穿的衣服
evening wear=evening gown-晚禮服，女性穿的正式的晚宴禮服。
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