Education

 

When I was the age of 3, I went to a nursery school, which I liked very much because I could play with a lot of children and there was lots of interesting playground equipment. My favourites were the jungle gym.

I was 6 years old when I started a primary school  which it was in my hometown.I went to the secondary school in IT. Now I’m a third year student there. I especially good at English and history. What I really hate is physics and math. In the school we regularly write tests in every subject. I prefer written tests because speaking in front of the whole class makes me nervous. The received grades are entered in the children’s report book which are signed by the parents regularly.

 If somebody fails a subject, he/she has to go to a second eximination in the summer but if he/she failed it again, he/she has to repeat that year fortunately. It is true that most students hate exams, saying that they are unable to remember thing because they are too nervous and they can’t concentrate under stress. On the other hand, psychologist say that exams that are carried out professionally don’t harm but help children develop their abilities and prepare them for life.

 If a person misses a class, he/she has to have a medical certificate. In our school it is compulsory to learn English and German language. The St. László Catholic School is a big modern two-storey building. It has a big yard with trees and well-equipped gym with all the necessary equipment. 

We also have a school homepage too. In here, you can find beautiful pictures of our school and school events, a short story of our school and the name of the teachers.

We don’t wear uniforms on weekdays, just on specific days like the opening ceremony, on the national holidays,such as the twenty-third of October and the fifteen of March.

Daily routine

On weekdays, I wake up at 6. I never get up as soon as I wake up. I need some time to relax a little bit. After I have had my morning cappuccino. After I go to the bathroom to brush my teeth and wash my face. Then I put on my clothes and I get my things ready for school, I always make my bed and listen to music. After it I make some sandwiches for myself. Unfortunately sometimes I oversleep. Being a heavy sleeper I can hardly hear the alarm clock ringing.

After breakfast – generally a slice of bread with butter, jam or honey – I go to school. I have to be there by 7:00. I go there by car. The lessons normally start at eight o’clock. On an average day there are eight lessons with fifteen minutes break in between. The lessons last for forty-five minutes. Usually I’m at school till 3 o’clock in the afternoon. I arrive home about 4 o’clock. If I have, I make my homework, and then I go for a walk with my friends.

Sometimes, if my mum asks me, I go to the supermarket and I do the washing up. At the weekend I help a little bit more, because I have more time.

In my family, we usually eat dinner at about seven o’clock. At dinner we discuss what happened during the day.After I help clean up the dinner dishes I either take a shower or have a bath myself. Sometimes I watch an interesting film or music program on TV or a video. I usually manage to go to bed around ten PM.

So this is my daily routine during the week. On the weekend it is a different story, I like to sleep late and do whatever I wish with my free time. I am still expected to help my parents but I still have most of the time for myself and my interests. I can go for a trip with my friends, I can visit my relatives or I can devote more time to my hobbies. I think everyone will agree that weekends are much better than weekdays.

Earning a living. Jobs.

There is full time and part time jobs, but both of them has differences. I think full time jobs mean that you work eight hours a day. If you have a part time job, you work less, usually for six hours a day. As the jobs has differences, so the other things, too. For example There are wages, salaries and fees. Salaries are fixed monthly payments especially for professional employees or people working in an office . Wages are usually paid weekly, according to the hours you work. A fee is an amount of money you pay to a professional person  for their advice or services. 

  The most popular jobs in Hungary is the lawyer or economist but some people would like to find a job in connection with computer science. The main reason why these jobs are so popular is that they are  well-paid. Most young people would like to work in a big company and get a company car, a mobile phone and a laptop and where they can travel abroad on business. There are so many young people who choose a popular job no matter whether they are interested in that field or not . Others try to find work that suits their abilities and interests. There are families where the parents tell their children what to become. Nowadays it is easier to gain admission to an institution of higher education, but is is more difficult to find a lucrative job after graduation. There are many more students in higher education than some years ago, so the job market is getting full. I think schools should let students concentrate on the field that suits their abilities and interests the most. 

  In my opinion, a good job must be challenging and motivating. It is very important for me to enjoy what I do and be a member of a good team. I think is job satisfaction is one of the most important things at work. This means that it is not enough to be good at what you do, but you should enjoy it as well. There are advantages and disadvantages of working alone at home. If you work alone, you have more freedom and you don’t depend on others. You can decide your own schedule, and you can stop other people disturbing you by simply turning off the phone. It is disadvantage, though, that you must solve all your problems totally alone. A good employer constantly tries to motivate the employees and creates ideal working conditions. She or he  should organise activities for the employees outside work, like sightseeing tours and evening programmes. A good employee is efficient, loyal to the employer and reliable. He or she has to adapt changing work conditions and has to be able to cooperate with others. 

Nowadays if you want a good job, you must have a degree and more than one language certificate. The advantages of working abroad are that you can learn the local language, get to know interesting people, and acquire the most recent technologies. Probably you earn more, although your expenditures can be

An Interviewer And An Interviewee

 

Interviewer: Welcome to ABC Controls, David. I am Tom.
Interviewee: Hello, it's nice to meet you.
Interviewer: Nice to meet you too, how are you doing today?
Interviewee: I am doing well, and yourself?
Interviewer: Great, thanks. I hope we didn't keep you waiting for long?
Interviewee: No, I had the chance to talk to one of your engineers while waiting.
Interviewer: That's good. David, shall we start?
Interviewee: Yeah, sure.
Interviewer: First of all, let me introduce myself. I am the manager of our engineering department here and we have an open position, so we have been interviewing applicants to fill the position as quickly as possible.
Interviewee: Yes sir, I read about the position on your website, and I think I am a good fit.
Interviewer: We currently have several ongoing projects and the team is working hard. We are hoping to keep busy for a long time.
Interviewee: What are the essential qualifications required for the position?
Interviewer: This is an entry-level engineering position, we do provide a lot of training here. But we do require that you have at least a bachelors degree in computer engineering. Previous experience in the field is a plus.
Interviewee: What kind of experience would you count as a work in the field?
Interviewer: Even though we provide training, it would be great if you had some hands-on programming experience, knowledge of database systems or skills on developing applications.
Interviewee: My final school project was actually developing a mobile application, so I am fairly competent in developing mobile and web applications.
Interviewer: That's good to hear, which school did you graduate from?
Interviewee: I was a student at DEF University, and I graduated with a bachelor degree in computer science. I worked as a computer lab tutor in school for about 2 years. Guiding students through their projects helped me get experience in several programming languages.
Interviewer: What are you looking for in a job?
Interviewee: The job should definitely help me grow in my career. I will be happy to learn and grow as I work in a passionate company like yours.
Interviewer: You are right. There is plenty of room for advancement in our company. What are your strengths? Why should I hire you?
Interviewee: I am a diligent person and a fast learner. I am very eager to learn. My friends also find me very easy to work with.
Interviewer: Very well. Now, do you mind working overtime?
Interviewee: No, I do not.
Interviewer: Because, sometimes we get overwhelmed with heavy workload.
Interviewee: I understand that's the nature of the job. When I was going to school, I took quite a few courses each semester while working at least twenty hours every week. And, I handled that situation very well.
Interviewer: Do you have any questions for me?
Interviewee: No, I think I have a pretty good understanding of the requirements. I believe that I can handle it with ease, and the fact that you provide all the training sounds excellent. I hope to have the opportunity to work for you.
Interviewer: David, It is nice to meet you. I can tell that you are a good candidate. Expect to hear from us within a week or so about the job.
Interviewee: Nice meeting you too. Thank you for your time.
Interviewer: Thank you for coming. 

22. Reserving a hotel room

 

Hotel Reservation

Receptionist: Good afternoon! This is Capitol Hotels in Washington, D.C. How may I help you?

Mr. Abrams: Hi, I’d like to schedule a reservation for this upcoming weekend from Friday night until Sunday.

Receptionist: Sure! Let me check and see what rooms are available. Do you need a room with one bed or two?

Mr. Abrams: My wife and I will be visiting the city, but a room with one bed will be just fine.

Receptionist: Alright... It looks like we have several rooms available. Would you care for a room with a balcony?

Mr. Abrams: A single room with no balcony will suit our needs just fine. I did notice on your website that you have a pool and an exercise room. Are these facilities available for all hotel guests?

Receptionist: Yes, all hotel guests are allowed access to those facilities. The hotel stay also includes breakfast. We have a restaurant on-site that also serves lunch and dinner, but those meals are not included in your lodging fee.

Mr. Abrams: Okay, that’s fine. What time are both check-in and check-out?

Receptionist: Check-in for you on Friday can be any time after 3:00 p.m. Check-out will be on Sunday before noon.

Mr. Abrams: Sounds great!

Receptionist: I am glad that I could help you today. Is there anything else that you need at this point in time?

Mr. Abrams: Would you like my credit card information now, or can I take care of that upon my arrival to the hotel’s reception desk?

Receptionist: We can handle payment upon your arrival on Friday. We look forward to seeing you then!

Mr. Abrams: Thank you! I look forward to my stay.

Receptionist: Enjoy the rest of your week! 

21. Renting a flat

 

Dialogue with house owner on house rent

Sujon: Excuse me. Is Mr. Khan in?

House Owner: Yes, I am Khan. May I know your purpose, please?

Sujon: Yesterday I saw an advertisement about renting your flat.

House Owner: Yes, that's in the second floor.

Sujon: Could you please give me some other information?

House Owner: Of course. What do you want to know?

Sujon: Can I have an idea about the flat?

House Owner: It is south facing. There are two bed rooms—one living room and one dining room. There are two bath 

rooms, one spacious veranda and one well decorated kitchen. Would you please tell me about your profession?

Sujon: I am a government employee. There are five members in my family. Anyway, may I know the rent of the flat?

House Owner: Yes, it is  twelve thousand taka per month.

Sujon: Will the bills be included?

House Owner: Oh, no, you will have to pay the water, electricity, and gas bills.

Sujon: What is the system of paying the rent?

House Owner: You will have to pay fifteen thousand taka in advance and the rent will have to be paid within the seventh of the next month.

Sujon: May I have a look at your flat?

House Owner: Sure, please come on.

Sujon: Oh, this will serve my purpose. I will come tomorrow for making contact.

House Owner: All right. You are welcome.

COMPUTERS AND THE INTERNET

Nowadays computers are used in all fields of life. You can find them in banks, post offices, shops, hospitals, restaurants, pharmacies, libraries, offices, factories, homes and so on. You can find more and more computers at schools. Computer Science as a subject has become an important subject in our schools. Almost every school has got a broadband connection to the internet that enables them not only e-maling but using other forms of communication (voice-mail, webcams etc.). I think the computer labs in our school are well-equipped. There are several computers in them with large screens and some printers and scanners, too. 

A lot of students write their homework assignments on computers. They usually use Microsoft Office programs such as MS Word, the word processor program. They can use MS Excel, the spreadsheet program. Using MS Powerpoint you can create presentations. When creating slides you can insert photos, music and even some videos if you like.

Unfortunately, there are drawbacks of computers and the internet. Some people spend too much time in front of their computers, they are addicted to the computer. It can be very harmful for their health.

There is an other form of computers, the laptop. It has some advantages for example it is easy to take it anywhere and you can use it while travelling, during meetings and on holiday. Its disadvantages are that its battery runs down quite soon, its screen is smaller and it strains the eyes more than the screen of a desktop.

The abbreviation ’www’ means World Wide Web, that is, the multimedia system of sound, text, pictures and video for presenting information on the Internet.

My two most favourite Internet activities are e-mailing and chatting. I use a free e-mail account of YAHOO that offers 1 GB storage place. I have a favourite chatroom where I can exchange messages with my chatpals in realtime.

Computers usually have CD or DVD drives for listening to music or watching videos. I am in the lucky situation that I can edit and write my music CDs and video DVDs.

Travelling

Every day hundreds of people travel from one place to another. They travel to work, to school, or on business. Many people travel for pleasure and travelling has recently become one of the most popular hobbies. Travelling is also an interesting way of spending holidays. In every season of the year the airports, railway stations, seaports, and bus stops are full of people travelling for long or short distances.

When people travel a long distance they usually travel by air. Travelling by air is exciting, fast comfortable, relatively safe but rather expensive. In the 20th century it became one of the most important means of transport. It takes nearly 6 hours by plane to get from the western to the eastern coast of the U.S.A. There are several American Airlines, all of them are private. They include the most popular and biggest airline companies such as the Pan American, Delta…

When people choose to travel by plane they usually go or phone to the airlines or travel agency to get information about flights. At the airport the passengers travelling with international or intercontinental airlines have to show their flight tickets and passports. An official weight of their luggage can take only 20 kg. Passengers must also go through the customs. Then they can go to the departure lounge. In the plane the stewardess shows them their seats. Before the aircraft moves, the notices flash up „Fasten Your Safety Belts” and „No Smoking”. During the flight the stewardess offers the passengers some meals, drinks, cigarettes and sweets. The passengers can also read magazines.

Traveling by train is the most common form of travelling. In our country trains are used daily by many people to and from work or school. They are cheap, less polluting, safe but not very clean and comfortable. Fast trains are more comfortable for longer distances. They do not stop at every station. There are also a sleeping car and the dinning car in fast long distance trains.

Coaches are buses for long distance travelling. They are fast, comfortable and the prices of tickets are quite reasonable. During holidays the travel agencies offer many coach trips to the mountains or seaside resorts.

Many people say that car is the most comfortable means of travelling and seeing places. Others think it is just a necessity because it is quicker than public transport. But for many people motoring is a pleasure. They enjoy driving a car at a high speed and do not think of the dangers of fast driving. The cars are comfortable and quick, but they are not safe and are rather expensive. In spite of that the number of cars on our roads and highways grows higher and higher every year. The growing number of cars is a danger not only for people but also for environment of the country.

Many young people of all countries of the world like travelling by bike. Some go to school by bike; others prefer cycling as a sport or a hobby. In recent years many young people go for holiday trips by bike which is healthy and exciting. This type of travelling depend much on weather and therefore summer is the best season for cycling tours

Organising a birthday party

A: Hey, Robert, what are you doing this weekend?

B: I didn't have any big plans.

A: We are putting together a birthday party for Mary.

B: That sounds like fun. Where will it be?

A: We thought it would be fun to have a pool party at Jay's house.

B: Oh good! Can I bring anything?

A: We will be providing hot dogs, hamburgers, and cake, but people can bring side dishes.

B: I am assuming that the dress is casual.

A: Dress casually and bring your bathing suit!

B: Wonderful. Just e-mail me the time and date and I'll be there. 

2:

A: Robert, do you have plans for the weekend?

B: I have nothing definite planned.

A: Saturday is Mary's birthday, and we are throwing her a party.

B: Sure, I could come to her party. Where are you going to have it?

A: It's going to be a pool party at Jay's apartment building.

B: That sounds like fun. Is it a potluck?

A: We would like for people to help us by bringing side dishes and drinks.

B: The dress will be casual then?

A: Make sure to bring your bathing suit, and dress casually.

B: Sounds great. Just drop me an e-mail with the time you've picked.

3:

A: Robert, are you going to be in town this weekend?

B: I don't have anything scheduled yet.

A: We were wondering if you would like to come to Mary's birthday party on Saturday.

B: I would enjoy coming to Mary's party. Will it be at your house?

A: The party will be at Jay's house out by the pool.

B: Will everyone be pitching in with some food?

A: It would be great if you could bring a side dish, but the rest of the food will be provided.

B: What should we wear?

A: This is a pool party, so make sure to bring your bathing suit.

B: Sounds like we'll have a great time. When you've figured out the details, drop me an e-mail.

Free time activities

Watching TV

Young people prefer films to books. I can watch a film with my friends and my family but I can only read a book when I am alone.

I spend a few hours in front of the TV every day. I always find something interesting to watch. Cartoons and series are my favorites. On weekdays I only watch the afternon programmes, that is, I watch TV for about 2 hours. At weekends, if I am at home, I sometimes watch it all day.

I like the Disney Channel, Prizma and Music Channels.

I never miss an episode of my favorite series. My favorurite series are Paula and Paulina, Marichuy. 

At weekends I like watching cartoons : Smurf, Garfield, Winnie the Pooh and Aladin.

I don’t like talk shows and sports. I find them boring.

My favourite TV star is Jennifer Aniston.

I like going to the cinema, but I rarely get there. I usually go with my friends because my parents never go to the cinema. I like romantic and horror films. My favourite films are Titanic,  Benjamin Button and his strange life and The Scream.

Ordering Pizza (Home delivery)

C: Hello, Tim’s Pizza.

D: Hello, I’d like to order a pizza, please.

C: Sure. Let’s start with your address and phone number.

D: My address is 123 Evergreen Terrace, Springfield.

My phone number is 555- 7896.

C: Okay, thank you. What would you like to order?

D: Can I have a super pepperoni pizza, large, thin crust with extra mozzarella cheese?

C: Would you like any sides with that?

D: Yes, can I please have 2 garlic breads and a bottle of lemonade?

C: Okay, will that be all?

D: Yes, that will be all.

C: Delivery time will be approximately 30 minutes.

D: Okay.

C: Please have the correct change for the driver.

D: I will, thank you.
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