#Person1#: Hi, Mark. How was your summer vacation?
#Person2#: I worked at a restaurant the whole vacation. It was an exciting experience and I also made enough money for the next term. What did you do in your summer vacation?
#Person1#: I attended some classes because I fell behind the others last term. I wanted to catch up with them.
#Person2#: You are great. So have you seen David?
#Person1#: He dropped out of school completely.
#Person2#: Really? Why? I haven't seen him for several months.
#Person1#: He worked at a good company as an assistant and since he did well, they asked him if he wanted to work full time.
#Person2#: Wow. He's so lucky. He doesn't have a degree and he already has a job.
#Person1#: It sounds good now, but I wouldn't have done that. I want a degree.

Summary: #Person1# and Mark share their summer vacation experiences. #Person1# tells Mark that David has been employed by a good company and dropped out of school completely.


#Person1#: Excuse me, do you offer air flight reservation service here?
#Person2#: Yes, is there anything I can do for you?
#Person1#: I want to book tickets for Canada. How many flights are there each day?
#Person2#: 4, at 6:30 am, 8 am, 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm.
#Person1#: What's the airfare?
#Person2#: 8000 Hong Kong dollars including security insurance.
#Person1#: May I have any discount for 5 persons?
#Person2#: Yes, 10%.
#Person1#: OK, 5 tickets for the 6:30 pm flight.

Summary: #Person2# books 5 flight tickets with a 10% discount.


#Person1#: Mom, you know that Andrea and I sometimes worry about you.
#Person2#: Really? Why would you worry about me? I'm just fine.
#Person1#: You're almost 70 years old, Mom! Don't you think it would be better for you if you moved in with us?
#Person2#: No way! I like my apartment, and I like to be independent.
#Person1#: Do you ever get lonely living alone?
#Person2#: Not at all. I see you and your family twice a week, and I enjoy seeing my own friends. I'm too busy to feel lonely!

Summary: #Person1# and Andrea worry about #Person1#'s mom living alone, so #Person1# asks #Person1#'s mom to move in. #Person1#'s mom refuses.


#Person1#: Good Morning, Mrs. Schmidt! I see you're standing on your head again.
#Person2#: Hi, Kathy! I'm just doing my morning yoga! You're up awfully early today.
#Person1#: I have to finish preparing a paper for my Western Civilization class.
#Person2#: How has school been going? You come home so late every night! You're really a hard worker. . .
#Person1#: Actually, I study a lot less here than I did in Taiwan! My classes are great, though. Sociology is the perfect major for me.

Summary: Kathy tells Mrs. Schmidt she has to prepare a paper. Mrs. Schmidr thinks Kathy is a hard worker.


#Person1#: Hello, welcome to IBA. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: Do you offer a safety deposit box rental service here?
#Person1#: We certainly do. May I ask you the purpose of the rental?
#Person2#: I'd like to put some valuables inside, you know, documents and jewellery, things like that.
#Person1#: I see. We have various rental periods. How long would you like to rent it for?
#Person2#: What rental do you offer?
#Person1#: You can choose a short-term or yearly rental.
#Person2#: I'll have to ask my wife how long she'll need it for as it is mainly for her belongings. I'll come back after we have discussed it. Thanks for your help.

Summary: #Person1# helps #Person2# choose a safety deposit box rental service at IBA to put some valuables inside.


#Person1#: Come on, Dad. The shops will be closed if we don't hurry.
#Person2#: Don't worry and the shops are open until midnight on Christmas Eve.
#Person1#: Yes, but it will take us a long time to find a car park and it will be midnight before we choose a present for mother. Plus, we don't know what to buy for her. Maybe a hat.
#Person2#: No, she is already had so many hats.
#Person1#: Well, maybe a box of chocolates.
#Person2#: But she never eats them. Anything else is OK. You know, she will be satisfied with what you buy for her.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person1#'s dad are on the way to the shops to get a Chrismas gift for #Person1#'s mother and they discuss what to buy.


#Person1#: Phew! Home at last! I'm glad to be back, aren't you?
#Person2#: Not really...I'm sorry our holiday is over. We had a great time, didn't we?
#Person1#: Mmm...it was OK. The weather wasn't as good as I'd hoped. It started to get cloudy in the last two days. I remember the forecast was for bright sunshine the whole week!
#Person2#: Well,most of the week was like that. We only had a little rain,right?
#Person1#: Yeah...The food in the hotel was delicious,but it was priced too high. Next time,we should stay at a cheap hotel.
#Person2#: Yeah,but the waiters were very helpful,I must say. When I asked for black tea,they sent some up to our room in a while.
#Person1#: Mmm...that's true.
#Person2#: But I don't know why the air conditioner didn't work. It was so hot!
#Person1#: It didn't help when we opened the windows,either. It didn't cool the room down at all.
#Person2#: Well,that was the only thing that didn't work properly.
#Person1#: Right,well,it happens sometimes.
#Person2#: So...what should we do for our next holiday then? We can go somewhere else - Asia or Europe?
#Person1#: Well,I would rather we go to Africa again.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about their holiday. They talk about the weather, the hotel, the waiters and complain about the air conditioner. #Person1# wants to go to Africa again.


#Person1#: Hi, Albert. You know, John won first place during the chess competition and we've been asked to organize a party for him.
#Person2#: Yeah, sure. It's about time we started to prepare it.
#Person1#: Exactly. And when is the best time to hold it?
#Person2#: Well, John will leave for Boston next Tuesday.
#Person1#: So what about 2 days before he leaves on May thirteenth? That's a Sunday.
#Person2#: Sounds nice.
#Person1#: What about the place, at school or at a restaurant?
#Person2#: I think it'll be expensive if we hold it at a restaurant. John said his grandparents welcome us to their big house.
#Person1#: Great. And then, we ought to be thinking about invitations. Who must we invite?
#Person2#: Well, John's chess coach.
#Person1#: And John's parents?
#Person2#: Yes. Besides, we'll invite at least 5 teachers and 20 students.
#Person1#: OK. By the way, what gift will you give John?
#Person2#: A book or a pen. What about you?
#Person1#: Well, I will buy a dictionary for him. I heard him say that he needed a good one.
#Person2#: Yeah, that's a good idea.

Summary: #Person1# and Albert will organize a party for John for his winning first place during the chess competition. They are going to invite some people to John's grandparent's house to celebrate it.


#Person1#: we'd like to rent a flat near the university.
#Person2#: are you looking for somewhere for two people?
#Person1#: yes, we are. obviously, we'd like something as cheap as possible. we've heard that there are places for 80 to 100 pounds a month.
#Person2#: yes, there are several place available in that price range near the university. do you have any other requirements?
#Person1#: net really, no. we'd preferably like to live in a quiet street.
#Person2#: how many rooms do you need in the flat?
#Person1#: we'll need two bedrooms. the kitchen and dining room can be separate or combined.
#Person2#: ok. i've got a list of place that fit your requirements. let's just go through them. the first on the list costs 80 pounds a month, but it's on a noisy street and it's a little far from t
#Person1#: how far away is it from the campus?
#Person2#: it's about two miles away. that might be a little far to walk. here's one that's about half a mile from the campus. the cost is 100 pounds a month and it's on a small street, just off a
#Person1#: that sounds ideal. can we go to have a look at it? we'd like to see it before making a final decision.
#Person2#: of course. i'm not very busy at the moment. if you can wait for about 15 or 20 minutes. i can take you there.
#Person1#: thank you. that would be great.

Summary: #Person1# wants to rent a cheap flat near the university for two people in a quiet street. #Person2# has a flat that fits #Person1#'s requirements. #Person1# wants to see it so #Person2# will take #Person1# there.


#Person1#: Jack, how have your two sons been doing at school recently?
#Person2#: Don't ask. Mark never start studying and Jason never stop studying.
#Person1#: You are joking. I heard that Jason is likely to be at the top of his class after his exams this year.
#Person2#: Yes, so his teachers say he's been buried in his books every evening for months on end recently. He is hoping to go to Harvard University.
#Person1#: Great. Maybe he'll become a university professor himself in the future.
#Person2#: Maybe, but sometimes I wish he'd go out and enjoy himself for a change.
#Person1#: How about the younger one?
#Person2#: Well, Mark's teachers say he has ability, but he rarely does his best. He does his homework in 10 minutes every day and then rushes out to play football.
#Person1#: But he can make his fortune at football. People can make a lot of money from sports now.
#Person2#: My wife always worries about their future. She wants Mark to study law. I don't believe in forcing them. But I wonder how Mark will progress over the next few years.
#Person1#: Perhaps you, you can have a talk with him now to find out what he's thinking about his studies and future plans.
#Person2#: Good idea. I'll take your advice.

Summary: Jack tells #Person1# that Jason never stops studying and is hoping to go to Harvard University. Mark has the ability but rarely does his best. #Person1# advises Jack to have a talk with Mark.


#Person1#: I need to find a new place to live.
#Person2#: Yeah? Why? Don't you like living with me?
#Person1#: Oh, it's not you. I just want my own place.
#Person2#: Well, check the newspaper.
#Person1#: Jeez. . . I didn't realize a single bedroom apartment went for so much these days.
#Person2#: Yeah, prices have really gone up the past couple of years.
#Person1#: Oh, here's one. It's looks like its in this neighborhood, $ 600 a month. That's not to bad.
#Person2#: No, it's pretty good. Why not give the landlord a call?
#Person1#: Hello. I'm calling about the one bedroom in Lincoln Park. Could I take a look at it? Yes. Tonight at six is fine. Thanks.

Summary: #Person1# wants to find a new place to live. #Person2# suggests checking the newspaper. #Person1# finds a satisfying apartment and will go to see it tonight.


#Person1#: Hi. Today, I am the interviewer for your visa application.
#Person2#: OK. Here is my application form and all the documents.
#Person1#: Can you tell me why do you want a visa to America?
#Person2#: Because I want to have a view of the exotic landscapes to extend my views and understanding of the world.
#Person1#: OK. Do you plan to go to America all by yourself or with your family?
#Person2#: Myself.
#Person1#: Have you finished all you preparation?
#Person2#: Yes. Everything is ready.

Summary: #Person2# wants a visa to America to have a view of the exotic landscapes on #Person2#'s own.


#Person1#: Welcome to the parent teacher conference. So what is your child's name?
#Person2#: Megan Jones.
#Person1#: Let's see, um, she missed the last couple of days has she been sick?
#Person2#: No, she's been having some problems with the other kids in your class.
#Person1#: Well, you know, junior high school is the difficult time, but she just needs to speak up a little more in class.
#Person2#: No, it's more than that. Some of the kids in your class have been joking around with her a lot about her appearance. And then the other day, you didn't help at all. She said, you commented on her blouse and jeans. Saying they were from the nineteen seventies.
#Person1#: Well, I was just kind of joking a little bit with her.
#Person2#: Yeah, that's what you think, but the other kids follow your example. In fact, one of the kids took a picture of her with their phone and posted it on Facebook with some really mean comments.
#Person1#: I'm sorry if I hurt her feelings, could you see if you can bring her to school tomorrow? Uh I'd like to apologize and see what I can do to improve the situation.
#Person2#: Ok.

Summary: #Person1# asks why Megan Jones missed the last couple of days. #Person2# blames #Person1# for commenting on Megan's blouse and jeans. #Person2# tells #Person1# that other kids followed #Person1#'s example and joked about Megan's appearance. #Person1# will apologize to Megan.


#Person1#: The road ahead is blocked. There might have been an accident.
#Person2#: Are there many accidents in the city every day?
#Person1#: Not really, but they are on the rise.
#Person2#: Please drive slowly, we've got lots of time. Safety first.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# got stuck in a blocked road.


#Person1#: What's your schedule like this year?
#Person2#: Pretty busy. I have to pick up a lot of credits this year.
#Person1#: What's your major?
#Person2#: I'm majoring in French literature.
#Person1#: Oh, don't you have to take that class on 18th century poetry? It's really difficult. I hear the students in that class have to write a paper 100 pages long.
#Person2#: That's right. We got the assignment last week.
#Person1#: When is it due?
#Person2#: Next Monday!
#Person1#: Remind me never to sign up for that course!

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# about the schedule and the major and asks #Person2# to remind #Person1# not to sign up for French literature.


#Person1#: Hey Bob. Whatchy doing?
#Person2#: I'm at home painting.
#Person1#: I didn't know you paint. What type of painting is it?
#Person2#: I enjoy oil painting. I learned it in one of my extra classes in college.
#Person1#: That sounds so interesting. I wish I learned a hobby.
#Person2#: Hobbies are never too late to learn. They offer a variety of classes at the local community college. You should look into it.
#Person1#: I think I will. Thanks for the info.

Summary: Bob likes oil painting. #Person1# wishes #Person1# learned a hobby. Bob recommends the local community college.


#Person1#: Are you going to Helen's birthday party on Friday evening?
#Person2#: I wouldn't miss it for the world! It's sure to be fun. She's invited a lot of friends. Do you think everyone will be able to get into her house?
#Person1#: If everyone turned up, it would be very crowded. But a few said that they couldn't go, so I think it should be OK.
#Person2#: Are you taking anything?
#Person1#: I've got her a birthday present and I'll take a bottle of wine too.
#Person2#: That's a good idea. She has bought plenty of food and drinks. It's going to be a noisy party. I hope her neighbours don't mind too much.
#Person1#: Helen gets on very well with her neighbours. I wouldn't be surprised if they went to the party too.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are discussing whether Helen's birthday party will be crowded and what to take as a gift.


#Person1#: My mobile keeps going wrong. I'd like to buy a new one.
#Person2#: Don't you see the price keeps going down these days? I insist that we wait some time so that we can save more money.
#Person1#: You have a point there, but it is inconvenient for me with this broken mobile. Sometimes it powers off by itself. It really makes me very angry when I am talking with someone.
#Person2#: In that case,you'd better buy a new one.
#Person1#: Well, I'll buy one this evening after supper.
#Person2#: All right.
#Person1#: Let's go to the shop together so that you can give me some advice.

Summary: #Person1# wants a new mobile but #Person2# suggests waiting for the price going down. But #Person1# thinks the broken phone is inconvenient so they'll shop for one.


#Person1#: I'm talking to Jackie Gold, who is a very proud mother. Her daughter Olyvia, appeared on the stage of London Palladium Theater in the musical, the Sound of Music last month. So how did it all come about?
#Person2#: Well, until last year, the idea of her appearing at the London Palladium would have been unthinkable for our family. Things started to happen when Olivia got the leading role for the show Annie at the local theater. For Annie, Olivia had to learn more than 200 lines. She was on stage from most of the 2 hours show. I decided that we do 10 pages a night. After memorizing it, I gave her a line and she would have to tell me what the next line was. She picked it all up even better than her homework.
#Person1#: And she did well in the part.
#Person2#: She was great in the part. She had always been shy and she suddenly became less shy and more confident. A member of the stage management team for the show was taking over a local agency and asked her to sign up. So then she had an agent to represent her and try to get roles for her.

Summary: #Person1# interviews Jackie Gold, whose daughter Olivia appeared on the stage of London Palladium Theatre in the musical. Jackie Gold tells #Person1# the experiences of her daughter.


#Person1#: I just had a terrible week.
#Person2#: what a shame!
#Person1#: I fell down and hurt my arm.
#Person2#: That's too bad.
#Person1#: Then my son drove into a tree.
#Person2#: I am sorry to hear that.
#Person1#: The dog bit the delivery boy.
#Person2#: What a pity!
#Person1#: And a storm blew our roof away.
#Person2#: Ho, no!

Summary: #Person1# had a terrible week and #Person2# feels sorry about it.


#Person1#: Oh, my God. I can't take it any more.
#Person2#: What's wrong, honey? Take it easy.
#Person1#: I am tired of doing that boring work. I just repeat doing counting everyday. It's so terrible.
#Person2#: Me too. But I think we can do something else for a change.
#Person1#: You know I work with my professional knowledge not passion. Sometimes I don't know what the meaning of working is?
#Person2#: But you did a good job. You always perform the best in our company.
#Person1#: Yes, that's in the past. Maybe I need to go to my psychologist for help.
#Person2#: Perhaps you've just tired and you need a vacation.
#Person1#: I was full of ambitions before. But now I have no aim for my career.
#Person2#: Maybe we should keep on studying to enrich our knowledge and make our life exciting.
#Person1#: That sounds interesting. But I don't know how to do that.
#Person2#: How about a training course?
#Person1#: A training course? That must be costly.
#Person2#: But it's worth it. Maybe it can get us into a good mood and also helps us learn something to use for the future.
#Person1#: OK, let's have a try.
#Person2#: OK.

Summary: #Person1# is tired of doing #Person1#'s boring work. #Person2# feels the same and suggests taking a training course to change the mood and enrich their knowledge.


#Person1#: Do you think I could borrow your car to go grocery shopping? The supermarkets outside the city are so much cheaper. I'd also be happy to pick up anything you need.
#Person2#: Well, I don't like to let anyone else drive my car. Tell you what, why don't we go together?

Summary: #Person1# wants to borrow #Person2#'s car. #Person2# suggests going together.


#Person1#: Good evening. For today's program, we have invited Sophie, a lady, who worked as a nurse during World War 2.
#Person2#: Good evening. At the beginning of World War 2, the government called on all its citizens 18 years old and over to help out. I started training as a nurse in November 1940. It was 2 months of being taught basic skills in the school of nursing.
#Person1#: What happened to you during the sudden attack, you know when Nazi Germany dropped bombs on Britain?
#Person2#: Manchester was bombed on the twenty-second and twenty-third of December 1940. On December twenty-forthth, I received an order requesting my immediate return from leave for duties of nursing the wounded. Many volunteers in the Manchester social services have taken a week's leave for the Christmas holidays. So the Manchester city rest centers were short of staff. Christmas Day was therefore my first day of nursing.

Summary: #Person1# invites Sophie to share her experiences as a nurse during World War 2.


#Person1#: Hi, I think I'm sitting next to you, seat 35 BC.
#Person2#: Oh, sorry. I'll just move my things. Hold on a minute.
#Person1#: Thanks. I've been waiting at the gate for ages.
#Person2#: The flight was delayed leaving Beijing, too. Security checks, you know. Are you going to London then?
#Person1#: Yes, I'm going to LSE to do a masters and international relations.
#Person2#: Really? That sounds interesting. You must be really clever.
#Person1#: So, are you going to London, too?
#Person2#: Well, actually I'm going to the University of Middlesex to do business studies.
#Person1#: That sounds interesting.
#Person2#: Well, actually, it's my parents who want me to do business studies. I'd rather study philosophy. But my dad wants me to take over the family business. He thinks it will make me rich.
#Person1#: Well, nobody wants to be poor. Ah, here's the drink trolley. What would you like?
#Person2#: A coke, please. I'm sorry I don't know your name.
#Person1#: Oh, I'm Paul.

Summary: Paul talks with #Person2# who sits next to him. Paul's going to LSE to do a master's and international relations, and #Person2#'s going to the University of Middlesex to do business studies.


#Person1#: Thanks for the advice, Mr. Macmillan. I'll keep it in mind. I had better head off though. I'm meeting my husband for dinner.
#Person2#: Sure, I'm heading out myself. Enjoy your evening.
#Person1#: Thanks, sir. You too. Drive safely, I hear there's a lot ice on the roads.
#Person2#: Thanks for the warning! See you tomorrow!

Summary: #Person1# thanks for Mr. Macmillan's advice and heads off.


#Person1#: Dad, I want to learn how to drive this summer vacation.
#Person2#: That's a good idea. You'd better hurry up before they've filled all classes. Many people are learning how to drive now.
#Person1#: I will get registered now at once. Do you know any training schools?
#Person2#: I am not sure. You can search for them on the Internet.
#Person1#: OK. look, I've typed driver schools, and there are so many results coming out.
#Person2#: Let me see. BeeTee Tranining School, summer program, 3, 000 Yuan, learn how to drive within one month, and get driver's license within three months.
#Person1#: 3, 000 Yuan is a little bit steep.
#Person2#: I think so. Let's see the next one, 3, 500 Yuan, summer program. Forget it.
#Person1#: I've heard that the Ideal Life School is famous. They offer many programs and there are many classes available. The charge is also fair.
#Person2#: Search on the Internet then, see if we can find something more about it.
#Person1#: Ah, got it. Ideal Life School, programs are already fully registered!
#Person2#: Don't worry. Let's check out some other schools.

Summary: #Person1# wants to learn how to drive. #Person1# and #Person1#'s dad then search for the summer program of different training schools on the Internet.


#Person1#: Hello. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: Hello. I'm here to get my salary.
#Person1#: I see. Do you have your Current All-in-one Passbook with you? I'll need your password for this transaction.
#Person2#: No problem.
#Person1#: And how much of your salary would you like?
#Person2#: I think just 3, 000 RMB will be enough.

Summary: #Person1# assists #Person2# in withdrawing #Person2#'s salary.


#Person1#: Bob Gordon speaking.
#Person2#: Hello, Bob. It's Ann here. How's everything?
#Person1#: Fine. How about you?
#Person2#: Oh, not so bad. Listen, I want to talk to you, Bob, about next Thursday. I hope you haven't forgotten.
#Person1#: No, no. I've got it in my diary. Just look it up. Thursday, the 14th, the meeting in Birmingham, I don't know when or where, though.
#Person2#: Right. That's what Don White asked me to tell you. It's in Birmingham at a quarter past eleven in the Rose.
#Person1#: The Rose Hotel?
#Person2#: Yes, the one opposite the park, Er, now you've got the time, right? 11:15, OK?
#Person1#: Yeah, fine, 11:15. I may be a few minutes late. There is a train from here at 8:10. I'll take that one. Which train are you getting?
#Person2#: I'm catching the 10:17 one. I get in at about 10:45.
#Person1#: OK. See you Thursday then. Cheer then.
#Person2#: Bye, Bob.

Summary: Ann is calling Bob to confirm the place and time for their meeting. Bob and Ann agree to meet at 11:15 and they talk about the trains they will take.


#Person1#: Hello, this is 5735647 5.
#Person2#: Hello, this is John. I wanna speak to Linda, please.
#Person1#: This is Linda.
#Person2#: Hi, Linda. I want to invite you to a dinner tomorrow evening.
#Person1#: Really? What time and which restaurant?
#Person2#: At seven thirty pm, Longing Chinese restaurant. And I'll go to your home and pick you up at 7.
#Person1#: Ok, I'll wait for you at 7pm at home. Anything else?
#Person2#: No, have a nice day!
#Person1#: Thank you. Bye.
#Person2#: See you.

Summary: John invites Linda to dinner at a Chinese restaurant through a call. Linda accepts it.


#Person1#: Oh, let's just go in for a minute, I'm hungry.
#Person2#: OK, but just a snack. We're eating supper at home tonight.
#Person1#: Let's get some milk and bread.
#Person2#: I don't really like milk. How about a soda?
#Person1#: They say Coca-Cola makes you fat. Milk is healthier.
#Person2#: Oh, if you want to be healthy, buy yoghurt. And put back those butter cookies you have in your hand.
#Person1#: Alright! I'll get some juice. How about this bread?
#Person2#: It looks fresh, but we'll be home soon.
#Person1#: But I'm hungry now! I'll get the bread and eat it at the bus stop.
#Person2#: Don't forget the juice.
#Person1#: I'll get two bottles, one for you and one for me.
#Person2#: Thanks, Now let's go.

Summary: #Person1#'s hungry and suggests buying some food. #Person2# agrees reluctantly and reminds #Person1# they're eating supper at home tonight. They discuss what to buy before going.


#Person1#: I heard you were teaching English over there. Tell me about it. Did you like it?
#Person2#: Oh, yes, it was very interesting.
#Person1#: What were the schools like?
#Person2#: Oh, I didn't actually teach in the schools. I taught after school. I taught in English institutes.
#Person1#: But you taught children, yes?
#Person2#: Yes. That's right. But children in Taiwan are very different from children in America. At least as far as studying is concerned. Many children in Taiwan go to special institutes after school.
#Person1#: They actually study after school?
#Person2#: That's right. After their school day is over, they go to a special institute to study math or English. They are very serious about learning over there.
#Person1#: Hmm. That sounds pretty oppressive for the kids. Don't they ever relax?
#Person2#: Of course they do. You know, Eliza, before I went over there I thought the same thing. I thought that maybe kids in Taiwan study too much. But now that I've worked there, and taught them, I feel it is a good thing. Their parents are very concerned about their education. More than American parents are. And that is good. American kids don't study enough.
#Person1#: Asian cultures value learning very much. I know that.
#Person2#: So it was interesting for me to see parents very concerned about education. They would come to me after the class and ask how their son or daughter was doing. I don't think that's a bad thing. I think it's a good thing. In America, too many parents don't pay attention.
#Person1#: But aren't the kids tired out? I mean, they go to school all day, and then they go to school in the evening too.
#Person2#: As an English teacher, I tried to make the lessons as fun as possible. I tried to have a good time with my classes. The students often enjoyed it. And if the students enjoyed it, they learned more. So it was a good experience.
#Person1#: Are the kids in Taiwan very obedient?
#Person2#: That's a stereotype we Americans have. We think that Asian kids are very obedient and quiet. But it's not true. There are plenty of naughty kids too.
#Person1#: Hmm. I know you taught in Costa Rica also. Which did you like better--Costa Rica or Taiwan?
#Person2#: I don't know. In Costa Rica, I taught adults. So it was a very different thing. So I really can't compare.

Summary: #Person2# describes the experience of teaching English in Taiwan to Eliza. #Person2# taught children in English institutes and says kids in Taiwan study after school. #Person2# thinks it's good for parents in Taiwan to be concerned about children's education, and in contrast, American kids don't study enough. As an English teacher, #Person2# tried to make the lesson as fun as possible.


#Person1#: What do you want to know about me?
#Person2#: How about your academic records at college?
#Person1#: The average grade of all my courses is above 85.
#Person2#: In which subject did you get the highest marks?
#Person1#: In mathematics I got a 98.
#Person2#: Have you received any scholarships?
#Person1#: Yes, I have, and three times in total.
#Person2#: Have you been a class leader?
#Person1#: I have been a class commissary in charge of studies for two years.
#Person2#: Did you join in any club activities?
#Person1#: I was an aerobics team member in college.
#Person2#: What sport are you good at?
#Person1#: I am good at sprint and table tennis.
#Person2#: You are excellent.

Summary: #Person2# asks #Person1# several questions, like academic records, the highest marks, scholarships, club activities, and skilled sports.


#Person1#: Hello, Mike. It's Caroline here. I've just been reading a paper and I found a job advertised in it that I think will be perfect for you.
#Person2#: Oh, what's the job?
#Person1#: The company want a marketing manager. Isn't that the kind of thing you're looking for?
#Person2#: Yes. Does it say what kind of job it is?
#Person1#: The main thing seems to be that you'll be in charge of sales planning.
#Person2#: Well, what sort of people are they looking for? I suppose they want me to have an MBA.
#Person1#: There is nothing about that, but it does say that they are looking for someone who can speak foreign languages. Well, that's OK for you, because you've lived abroad and you can speak German, right?
#Person2#: Yes, when can I apply for the job?
#Person1#: The third of July is the closing date, so you've got exactly a month. Do you want me to email you the advert, so you can see it yourself?
#Person2#: Yes, that would be great.
#Person1#: OK, I'll do that now.

Summary: Caroline calls Mike to tell him a job advertised in a paper. The company wants a marketing manager and this is exactly what Mike is looking for. Caroline will email him the advert.


#Person1#: Welcome to IBA. Do you need any assistance?
#Person2#: Yes, please. I'm hoping to get a mortgage from you and was wondering about your interest rates.
#Person1#: I see. We offer Personal Housing Loans, or mortgages, at a rate of 0. 42 % per month.
#Person2#: That's pretty much the same as I've been quoted at other banks.
#Person1#: We offer many different payment plans. Would you be looking at long-term or short-term? Are you looking at a 10 - year repayment plan?
#Person2#: Definitely. I want to get my mortgage paid off as soon as I can.
#Person1#: Then we can certainly help you with that. You see, for shorter term loans, we can offer an even more competitive interest rate.
#Person2#: Mmmm. . . that does sound interesting. Is there anyone available I can talk with about this in more detail?
#Person1#: I'll get our Mortgage Adviser for you. Please take a seat, I won't be a minute.

Summary: #Person2# wants to get a mortgage from IBA and wants to know the interest rates. #Person1# introduces some payment plans and will get their Mortgage Adviser for #Person2# to discuss details.


#Person1#: Lisa, I'm going shopping downtown this afternoon. Would you like to go with me?
#Person2#: I'd like to but I have arranged to discuss the project with Mister Cook. I'm also going to a party with Bill this evening.
#Person1#: But you know, I'm not good at bargaining. How I wish you could help me.
#Person2#: Why not ask Mary to go with you. She loves shopping. She can help you.
#Person1#: Good idea. I'll go and ask her. Thank you.
#Person2#: You're welcome.

Summary: #Person1# invites Lisa to go shopping. Lisa can't go and advises #Person1# to ask Mary.


#Person1#: Do you know much about computers?
#Person2#: Not a great deal.
#Person1#: I've just been reading an article about them. they'll be used for all sorts of things now.
#Person2#: For accounting system and things like that, you mean?
#Person1#: Yes, but they are used for other things, too. Do you remember when we went to buy a ticket for the flight to Paris.
#Person2#: Yes?
#Person1#: The man asked where we want to go, then he type out the information on the form and waited for a reply. A few moment later, he gave us two tickets.
#Person2#: Of course, his machine must have been connected to a computer.
#Person1#: That's right.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about the fields where computers have been used and take their experience of buying a ticket as an example.


#Person1#: Hello, is that the Peace Restaurant?
#Person2#: Yes. May I help you?
#Person1#: Yes. I'd like a table for six at 7:00 this evening. Can you arrange it for us?
#Person2#: Just a minute. I'll check if there is any availability. I'm sorry, sir. There isn't any table left for 7:00, but we can give you one at 8: 00. Would you like to make a reservation at that time?
#Person1#: Let me see. It seems a little late.
#Person2#: Usually, the restaurant will be quieter at that time.
#Person1#: OK. I'll change the time to 8: 00.
#Person2#: Very good, sir. A table for 6 at 8: 00 this evening. May I have your name, please?
#Person1#: It's John.
#Person2#: Thank you very much. Bye.

Summary: John calls to book a table at 7:00 but #Person2# can only give him one at 8:00. John changes the time to 8:00.


#Person1#: Amanda, could you make a call to the cinema to see if there are still some seats left for the movie this afternoon?
#Person2#: I've already booked tickets online for the 2:00 o'clock movie. I'm thinking of picking them up from the ticket office on the way to the restaurant. What do you think?
#Person1#: OK. Well, the Smiths want to move our appointment forward by half hour earlier. That means we should be there at 11:30.
#Person2#: Then we don't have enough time. We'd better get moving. Oh, before I forget, can you remind me to stop by the bookstore on the way back home? I have to order a book there.
#Person1#: OK.

Summary: #Person1# asks Amanda to check the seats for the movie. Amanda has already booked tickets online. They'd better get moving because the Smiths want to move the appointment forward.


#Person1#: Hoo, thanks for stopping. Sometimes it can be impossible to get a cab in the rain.
#Person2#: No worries. Where to?
#Person1#: I'm going to fifth avenue and east twenty second street, no rush at all though.
#Person2#: Well, that's good because it looks like we're not going to be able to move more than a few feet per minute.
#Person1#: Well, that's what happens when it starts to rain during rush hour. I'm one of the lucky ones. Usually I would have an appointment around this time, but today I get to go home early.
#Person2#: That's great, ma'am. I'll try to get you home as early as possible.

Summary: #Person1# feels lucky to get #Person2#'s cab in the rain and doesn't mind the traffic jam.


#Person1#: Mike, did you win the lottery or something? Why the big smile?
#Person2#: I'm so relieved. I just passed the bar exam.
#Person1#: You did? That's great! You must be very happy now?
#Person2#: That's an understatement. I'm on cloud nine. I couldn't be any happier.
#Person1#: Did you tell your parents yet?
#Person2#: Not yet. I didn't get a hold of them. I'll try to call them again tonight.
#Person1#: They're probably going to be so happy.
#Person2#: I think so. It's turning out to be a great day.

Summary: Mike is happy about passing the bar exam and #Person1# congratulates him.


#Person1#: The mosquitos are biting me!
#Person2#: Me, too, I can't stop scratching. They are everywhere! Sneaky little jerks.
#Person1#: Do you have any bug spray?
#Person2#: No, I forgot to buy some.
#Person1#: Then we'll have to put up with it.
#Person2#: We can cover ourselves with beer! That way if they bite us, they'll get drunk and fall asleep.
#Person1#: That's without a doubt, the best idea you'Ve had! Let's do it!
#Person2#: Run! They are thirsty for more!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# don't have bug spray so they cover themselves with beer to prevent mosquitos' biting instead. It doesn't work.


#Person1#: Excuse me. Check please.
#Person2#: OK, how was everything?
#Person1#: Very nice. Thank you.
#Person2#: Would you like this to-go?
#Person1#: Yes, can you put it in a plastic bag?
#Person2#: Sure, no problem. Here you are. That'll be 25 dollars.
#Person1#: Do you take credit cards?
#Person2#: Yes, we accept Visa and MasterCard.
#Person1#: OK, here you are.
#Person2#: Thanks. I'll be right back.
#Person1#: OK.
#Person2#: Here's your receipt.
#Person1#: Thank you.
#Person2#: You're welcome. Please come again.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# to put the unfinished food in a plastic bag. #Person1# pays for the meal by credit card.


#Person1#: Honey, we still have some extra money after buying the TV set last week. If you want to buy something else, you can.
#Person2#: Well, I need a bike. I don't want to go to work by bus anymore. There are so many people on the bus sometimes that I just can't get on it.
#Person1#: What do you think of walking to work for exercise? I actually think you need a new computer. Your old one is pretty slow.
#Person2#: Yes, I do need a computer. Then I will give up on the bike idea. Then I could have $400 to buy a new computer.
#Person1#: Not just $400. I can give you $100 more than that. If you're going to buy a computer, you should buy a good one.

Summary: #Person2# wants to use the extra money to buy a bike. #Person1# thinks #Person2# needs a new computer instead. #Person2# decides to buy a computer.


#Person1#: Oh, Eric. Could you please turn the TV off? I'm trying to study.
#Person2#: Oh, come on. I've just got home from work. I need to relax.
#Person1#: That's not the point. You don't have to relax with the sound so loud.
#Person2#: Well, do you mind closing your bedroom door? So I won't have to turn the TV off.
#Person1#: No, sorry, I can't. The door is broken, no remember?
#Person2#: OK. I'll turn the TV off now, but I want to watch my favorite program in an hour.
#Person1#: Sure, no problem.

Summary: #Person1# asks Eric to turn the TV off and Eric finally agrees to watch later.


#Person1#: May I speak to Mr. Smith?
#Person2#: He is at the warehouse this morning.
#Person1#: What time do you expect him back?
#Person2#: Sorry, I have no idea. You can call him there if you like.
#Person1#: Ok, I have the number. Bye!

Summary: #Person1# calls Mr. Smith but #Person2# says Mr. Smith is unavailable now.


#Person1#: Thank you for seeing me. Did you look over my letter and resume?
#Person2#: Yes. Quite good. Perhaps you're very interested in the social benefits.
#Person1#: Yes, I think it is possible more important than the salary.
#Person2#: Really? We would like to start you off at 2, 000 yuan a month, excluding bonus and overtime pay.
#Person1#: Good, about the essential living conditions?
#Person2#: Well, we'll supply you with an apartment of a bedroom and a living room.
#Person1#: I see. I'm a female. Are there any special benefits for me?
#Person2#: Yes, in our company, the women have a two-week vacation a year, besides this, if you are a married woman, maternity leave for some months is permitted.
#Person1#: I think it is very necessary for us. I wonder whether I am on holiday with payment every year.
#Person2#: Yes, you have a paid month holiday every year.
#Person1#: Right. How about the unemployment compensation and the retirement pension?
#Person2#: Well, we are only responsible for the retirement pension. About the unemployment compensation, this will be given by the government.
#Person1#: Yes, I see.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person1#'s monthly salary will start from 2000 yuan and she is eligible for a two-week vacation and a paid month holiday every year and maternity leave if needed. The company will supply #Person1# with an apartment and be responsible for her retirement pension.


#Person1#: Hmm... Here's one of a crowd of people moving. I think that's pretty stressful.
#Person2#: Well, I don't think it's so bad. But I do think that going to the dentist is stressful.
#Person1#: Oh, so do I! It's stressful because you have no control.
#Person2#: That's right. Look at this one. This poor boy is sitting in an exam. I think exams are the most stressful. Sometimes you just can't think of anything to write.
#Person1#: Yes, I agree with you there. What about these people here?
#Person2#: Mmm... I'm not sure. They seem to be in a hurry, don't they? I think being late is stressful.
#Person1#: That's true. It can be terrible, especially when you're late for something important.
#Person2#: Like an interview. Look at this picture here: here's someone in an interview. Do you think interviews are stressful?
#Person1#: No. I think they're quite exciting, a challenge.
#Person2#: Oh, I hate interviews.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are talking about stressful things. They both think that going to the dentist, taking exams, and being late are stressful. #Person2# thinks interviews are stressful while #Person1# thinks it challenging.


#Person1#: How are you getting on, White? Are you still working for the Merry Lynch Bank?
#Person2#: Yes, Kitty, that's right.
#Person1#: I suppose you know quite a lot about banking by now, don't you?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. To tell you the truth, I'm a bit tired of it.
#Person1#: Really? Isn't it good to work in a bank?
#Person2#: You know I've been working for the Merry Lynch Bank for over 15 years.
#Person1#: So you are thinking of making a change,are you?
#Person2#: Yes, I am. Actually, you know, I'm thinking of beginning my own business.
#Person1#: That sounds great.
#Person2#: Yes, I think it over, but the problem is money. If I had enough money, I'd leave the bank tomorrow.
#Person1#: What are you going to do to solve the problem?
#Person2#: I'll borrow some money from a bank, of course, but not from the one I've been working for.

Summary: White tells Kitty he's tired of working at the bank. He's thinking of beginning his own business and he'll borrow some money from another bank.


#Person1#: Have you declared your income and are you prepared to pay tax?
#Person2#: Not yet. I don't know how to fill out the form. What is the tax-free allowance for supporting a dependent?
#Person1#: I don't really know. Why not ask the accountant or the lawyer of the law firm? They will tell you which is subject or not subject to taxation. He can even help you avoid paying tax legally.
#Person2#: If I don't pay my taxes, would the tax officials discover it?
#Person1#: Certainly. No one who evades tax can escape from their detection. They ' ll check your income through computers. You'd better make a declaration to the tax authorities as soon as possible. If you fail to meet the deadline, you will be fined.

Summary: #Person1# doesn't know about tax-free allowance. #Person2# advises #Person1# to seek an accountant and make the declaration soon.


#Person1#: Do you have a swimming pool in this hotel?
#Person2#: We don't have a swimming pool, sir, but we do have swim stations in the gym.
#Person1#: I never heard of a swim station. Is that like a train or bus station?
#Person2#: It's just a deep bathtub with a current of water that you swim against.
#Person1#: Holy cow! I never heard of such a thing. How much do they cost?
#Person2#: As a guest, sir, you pay nothing.
#Person1#: This sounds better every second. Now, when can I use the stations?
#Person2#: If you want to swim, you can visit the gym any day between 7 a. m. and 10 p. m.
#Person1#: Oh, boy! This is going to be great. I'm going to the gym right now!
#Person2#: I'm sure you'll enjoy your workout, sir. Everyone seems to like the swim stations.

Summary: #Person2# introduces #Person1# to the swimming stations in the gym which is free for the hotel guests. #Person1# is impressed and decides to go there now.


#Person1#: This is the good life! We have it good don't you think?
#Person2#: Yeah of course! Although, don't you ever wonder what could have been?
#Person1#: What do you mean?
#Person2#: Well, sometimes I think of how things could have turned out if I had done things a little differently.
#Person1#: For example?
#Person2#: Like for example, if I hadn't studied architecture, I would have become an artist like I wanted to.
#Person1#: I see. Yeah now that I think of it, I wouldn't have gotten married if I hadn't moved to this town and met Sally.
#Person2#: You see! Everything happens for a reason! We wouldn't even have met if I hadn't been in that car accident ten years ago!
#Person1#: Well, I have no regrets!
#Person2#: I'll drink to that!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about how their life would be if they had done things differently. They are content with their current life.


#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: I want to buy a hat.
#Person1#: Come here, please.
#Person2#: Is this one fit for you? It is nice.
#Person1#: I don't like the style.
#Person2#: How about this one?
#Person1#: Black is not my favorite colour.
#Person2#: You must like this pink one, don't you?
#Person1#: It's pretty. How much is it?
#Person2#: Fifty yuan.
#Person1#: It's too expensive. Can you come down a little?
#Person2#: How about forty-five?
#Person1#: I'll buy it if forty.
#Person2#: OK.

Summary: #Person1# recommends several hats for #Person2#. #Person2# buys the pink one after bargaining with #Person1#.


#Person1#: Do you know the first McDonald's restaurant had no seats for customers to sit on?
#Person2#: In that case, people had to stand eating, didn't they?
#Person1#: No, most people bought the food and took it away. And that's the way Mac and Dick thought of to avoid washing the dishes.
#Person2#: That's a good idea, but who are Mac and Dick?
#Person1#: They were two brothers who ran the first McDonald's. Later a businessman called Ray Kroc asked to buy their business.
#Person2#: Did the two brothers agree?
#Person1#: Yes, they sold the business to Ray for $27,000,000.
#Person2#: So today there are so many chain stores of McDonald's, right?
#Person1#: Exactly, but which McDonald's do you think sells the most hamburgers in the world every day?
#Person2#: I guess a certain one in New York.
#Person1#: No, no. It's the Hong Kong's McDonald's.
#Person2#: It's hard to believe.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# how Mac and Dick thought of to avoid washing the dishes and why there're so many chain stores of McDonald's.


#Person1#: Cindy! Are you getting take-out?
#Person2#: Yeah, do you want something?
#Person1#: Yeah, thanks. Could you pick me up a chicken salad sandwich, an order of fries, and a large diet coke?
#Person2#: No problem. Do you have any cash on you? I don't think I have enough.

Summary: #Person1# asks Cindy to pick #Person1# up some take-out.


#Person1#: How about going to dance this evening, Jane? You will find that the night life of this city is very interesting!
#Person2#: Good idea. There is a good nightclub nearby, isn't it?
#Person1#: Yes, the dance hall is nice with various styles of music.
#Person2#: ( In the club ) Look at those people in the dance floor, they are so crazy.
#Person1#: That's rock and roll with fast tempo.
#Person2#: I like the slow dance. I am good at rumba and waltz.
#Person1#: Take it easy. The time for slow dance is the middle part of the party.
#Person2#: Let's find a quiet seat and sit down for beverage.
#Person1#: OK, follow me.
#Person2#: Listen, it is waltz. I like the elegant step of the old styles.
#Person1#: May I?
#Person2#: Sure.
#Person1#: ( When they are dancing ) You dance gracefully!

Summary: #Person1# invites Jane to go dancing this evening. Jane likes slow dance so they wait until it is the waltz, and they enjoy themselves in the nightclub.


#Person1#: Hi, Rosa, what are you doing?
#Person2#: I'm trying to pick an English literature course for this term.
#Person1#: Take Professor Holds class. I took hers last year.
#Person2#: Really? What's she like?
#Person1#: Fantastic. I think she is really a good teacher.
#Person2#: Why? What makes her so good?
#Person1#: For one thing, she is really funny. She's also smart. So you learn a lot.
#Person2#: What do you think of Professor Vance?
#Person1#: He is boring. Most students fall asleep in his class and he is hard to talk to.
#Person2#: OK. I'll try to get into Professor Holds class.
#Person1#: You won't be sorry.

Summary: Rosa's trying to pick an English literature course. #Person1# recommends Professor Hold's class and doesn't suggest Professor Vance's.


#Person1#: Hello, Mary, how are you today? I hear you weren't well last week.
#Person2#: I'm much better now. Thank you.
#Person1#: What was the matter? Nothing serious I hope.
#Person2#: Oh, no, I had a bad cold and had to stay in bed for 2 days.
#Person1#: I'm glad you're better. Anyway, I hope it was the last cold of the winter and not the first cold of the summer. What about your friend Dan? I hear she's ill, too.
#Person2#: She was ill, but she's all right now. I think she caught my cold.
#Person1#: Everybody seems to have one now. I expect it's the sudden change of weather, 1 day hot and the next day cold.
#Person2#: And very windy, too. That's why I'm wearing a sweater today. What do you think of it? Pretty, isn't it?
#Person1#: It certainly is. It must have cost a lot. Where did you find it?
#Person2#: Oh, I got it at a sale. It was quite cheap.
#Person1#: Really? Well, Mary, I must say it suits you very well. What a pity we men can't wear beautiful sweaters.
#Person2#: Never mind. Let's go and buy one like it to send to your sister Linda in America.
#Person1#: Now that's very kind of you, Mary. I'm really thinking of sending her a present.

Summary: Mary had a bad cold but she's better now. #Person1# thinks it's the sudden change of weather that causes the cold. Mary is wearing a sweater today which #Person1# thinks beautiful. Mary suggests buying one for #Person1#'s sister Linda.


#Person1#: Hello, Ann.
#Person2#: Oh, hello. Come on in. Let me take your coat. You managed to find us then.
#Person1#: Well, I got a bit lost coming off the ring road. Sorry I'm a bit late.
#Person2#: Oh, don't worry. The dinner hasn't been ready yet. Martin is still in the kitchen.
#Person1#: So he is cooking, isn't he?
#Person2#: He is quite an expert in the kitchen. Fortunately for me, I can't boil an egg myself.
#Person1#: Oh, I brought you this. I wasn't sure what you liked. But obviously, it's meant to be quite a good year.
#Person2#: Oh, thanks. Lovely.

Summary: #Person1# visits Ann and Martin and brings them a gift. Ann tells #Person1# Martin's still cooking.


#Person1#: How do you like Korea?
#Person2#: I like it. It's a beautiful country.
#Person1#: What part of the visit excited you most?
#Person2#: The best island of Korea-Jizhou island.
#Person1#: Why?
#Person2#: Attractive scenery, pleasant climate, these make it charming.
#Person1#: Yes, I think so. But there is also something terrible.
#Person2#: What do you mean?
#Person1#: Sometimes the traffic is too busy.
#Person2#: Yes, you are right.

Summary: #Person2# likes the attractive scenery and pleasant climate of Korea-Jizhou island, but #Person1# thinks the traffic there is busy.


#Person1#: Can you tell me the best way to look for an apartment?
#Person2#: The local newspaper has ads for housing.
#Person1#: Is there any way to find a roommate to share an apartment with?
#Person2#: Sometimes you can post an advertisement saying that you need a roommate.
#Person1#: What do landlords charge for rent?
#Person2#: Would you like an apartment for just yourself, or do you need it for two people?
#Person1#: There are two of us, but we only need a one-bedroom apartment.
#Person2#: You should be able to easily find that for twelve hundred dollars a month.
#Person1#: I really would appreciate it if you could come look at apartments with me.
#Person2#: Sure, I ' ll go look at apartments with you anytime you want.

Summary: #Person2# suggests #Person1# post an advertisement in the local newspaper and promises to look at apartments with #Person1#.


#Person1#: Excuse me, sir. I am coming to apply for the position of accountant.
#Person2#: Oh, please sit down. What university did you graduate from?
#Person1#: I graduated from Tianjin College of Commerce.
#Person2#: What was your major at college?
#Person1#: My major was accounting.
#Person2#: Can you name some of the courses you completed in relation to accounting?
#Person1#: Sure. I took such courses as accounting principles, commercial accounting, cost accounting, industrical accounting, electronic data processing accounting, and accounting involved in foreign capital enterprises.
#Person2#: What kind of work are you doing now?
#Person1#: I'm engaged in accounting.
#Person2#: What are your responsibilities in your present work?
#Person1#: My work involves various routine bookkeeping and basic accounting tasks including journal entries, verifying data and reconciling discrepancies, preparing detailed reports from raw data, and checking accounting documents for completeness, mathematical accuracy and consistency.
#Person2#: Are you familiar with the PRC Financial and Tax Regulations?
#Person1#: I think so.
#Person2#: Can you tell me something about this balance sheet now?
#Person1#: Of course. This balance sheet contains three major sections, that is, assets, liabilities and owner's equity. So, you see, the total current liabilities of your company are $3, 372, 000, and the owner's equity is $5, 400, 000. That means that the total assets, which is equal to the sum of the creditor's and the owner's equities, are $8, 772, 000.
#Person2#: What's the creditor's equity?
#Person1#: The creditor's equity is the same as liabilities.

Summary: #Person1# wants to apply for the position of accountant. #Person2# interviews #Person1# and asks about #Person1#'s educational background. #Person1# is engaged in accounting currently and #Person1#'s work involves various routine bookkeeping and basic accounting tasks. #Person1# also explains the balance sheet and the definition of creditor's equity.


#Person1#: Good morning, everyone. In the studio today we have Steve Jackson, who's going to tell us about his recent trip to the Antarctic. So Steve, what was it like? Did you freeze?
#Person2#: No, I didn't. While I was there, the temperature was about 7 degrees and I found it quite comfortable. It can get storming in the Antarctic but the seas were calm.
#Person1#: I guess you should take warm clothes.
#Person2#: Well, you really need that. But what I found most useful was dark sunglasses. The sun can get really strong with the reflection of the snow and the ice.
#Person1#: What were the other passengers like?
#Person2#: All the atmosphere aboard the ship was great. The crews were mainly American and they did their best to get everyone to mix.
#Person1#: Did you come across any people apart from your fellow tourists?
#Person2#: Yes, a few of the scientists at a research station. They gave his coffee and biscuits one morning.
#Person1#: What's your best memory of the trip?
#Person2#: Hard to say really. There are so many. We saw a lot of wildlife, but I guess what I most treasured is the large variety of birds we saw.
#Person1#: I guess the area was totally untouched before the scientists arrived.
#Person2#: Well, actually there used to be a booming fishing industry in the area at one time. But all that's left are some deserted buildings now. No old boats are machines or anything like that, though.

Summary: Steve Jackson comes to #Person1#'s studio and introduces his recent trip to the Antarctic. Jackson says the temperature was comfortable and the atmosphere aboard the ship was great. Jackson treasured the view of various birds most.


#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: Have you got the latest ONXIU magazine?
#Person1#: Yes, but it's checked out.
#Person2#: What a pity! I missed it again.
#Person1#: It's popular you know. You want to reserve it?
#Person2#: Yes, please.
#Person1#: Fill out this form and we will send you a note when we get the book.
#Person2#: Thank you. What shall I do when I check out these books?
#Person1#: Take the card, and fill in your name and library card number.
#Person2#: Thank you so much.

Summary: #Person2# wants to borrow the latest ONXIU magazine but it's checked out. #Person1# helps #Person2# reserve it.


#Person1#: Mike! What's going on, man! Long time no see!
#Person2#: Hey, Pat! Yeah, I haven't seen you in ages! How is going?
#Person1#: Things doing great! It's funny running into you like this. Smell well, just last week I ran into Matt as well.
#Person2#: Yeah? How's he doing?
#Person1#: He's doing well. We went out for a couple of beers and the funniest thing happened.
#Person2#: Oh yeah?
#Person1#: Well, we were talking and catching up on what we'Ve been doing, talking about work and family, when all of a sudden, Matt saw a mouse run under his chair and he completely lost it! He started freaking out, and screaming. . .
#Person2#: Ha ha, really?
#Person1#: Yeah, and the funniest thing was, that he jumped on to his chair and started shrieking like a girl. You had to be there! Everyone was staring and laughing. . . it was hilarious!

Summary: Pat runs into Mike and tells him he ran into Matt as well. And Pat describes the funniest thing that happened when he drank with Matt.


#Person1#: Looks like a good party, I probably know about half the people.
#Person2#: Who's that boy?
#Person1#: Where?
#Person2#: The one next to the telephone.
#Person1#: I don't know. Never saw him before. Why?
#Person2#: I think he's the boy who just moved into my apartment building.

Summary: #Person2# thinks the boy next to the telephone at the party is the one who just moved into #Person2#'s apartment building.


#Person1#: I'd like some information about opening a savings account.
#Person2#: A savings account? Certainly, what would you like to know?
#Person1#: Could you tell me what the interest rate is?
#Person2#: It's five and a quarter percent.
#Person1#: I see.
#Person2#: Would you like to open the savings account with us?
#Person1#: Yes, I would.
#Person2#: All right. I'll get a form for you to fill out.

Summary: #Person1# consults about a savings account. #Person2# tells #Person1# the interest rate of a savings account, then #Person1#'s willing to open one.


#Person1#: Excuse me, sir. Could you spare a minute?
#Person2#: Uh, yes.
#Person1#: Do you go to work by train every day.
#Person2#: Yes. I commute five days a week by train.
#Person1#: And would you mind telling us what you think of the rail service?
#Person2#: It's really very good.
#Person1#: Why do you say that?
#Person2#: Well, trains are frequent and come on time.
#Person1#: Which train do you catch in the evening?
#Person2#: I usually take the five thirty home.
#Person1#: And can you get a seat?
#Person2#: No, I usually have to stand.
#Person1#: Would you agree that the service is fast?
#Person2#: Yes, it's reasonably fast but it certainly isn't cheap. Fares have gone up 25 present.

Summary: #Person1# interviews #Person2# about #Person2#'s commuting ways and #Person2#'s opinions about the rail service.


#Person1#: Hey, Jeff, where's your stereo?
#Person2#: I needed some money, so I hocked it last week.
#Person1#: You must have been really hurting for cash to have done that.
#Person2#: I had just enough money to make ends meet until payday. Then last Wednesday I received a phone bill to the tune of $ 195. 00. I hit the ceiling when I saw that.
#Person1#: It sounds like you weren't expecting that.
#Person2#: I'd forgotten that my brother had used my phone earlier this month to call his girlfriend. He forgot to mention that she happened to be in New York at the time 3000 miles away.
#Person1#: Well, if you need some money to tide you over until payday, I can loan you some.
#Person2#: Thanks, but tomorrow's payday I can make until then. Thanks any-way.

Summary: Jeff can barely make ends meet because his brother used his phone and the phone bill is high. #Person1#'s willing to loan him some money but Jeff refuses.


#Person1#: Can I help you with anything?
#Person2#: Yes, I'm looking for an engagement ring for my girlfriend.
#Person1#: Congratulations, that is very exciting. Do you know what kind of ring you're looking for?
#Person2#: Not really. I'm not too good at this kind of stuff.
#Person1#: Do you know what she likes?
#Person2#: She really likes colorful stones. I know that she prefers red and yellow. She likes diamonds. But I think she would also like a ruby or something else that's really bright.
#Person1#: We have some gorgeous ruby rings over here. Does she like silver or gold?
#Person2#: Gold.
#Person1#: This one here is really nice. The gold band is on the thinner side.
#Person2#: I like that one. Do you have anything with a smaller stone?
#Person1#: This one here has a small stone. There was a nice design on the band, too.
#Person2#: I think this may be the one. I'm going to send a photo of it to my mom.

Summary: #Person2# wants an engagement ring for his girlfriend. #Person1# recommends some gorgeous ruby rings. #Person2# chooses a gold one with a smaller stone and will ask his mom for advice.


#Person1#: My lease ends next month, so I have to find a new place.
#Person2#: I feel sorry for you. It's a jungle out there.
#Person1#: Do you know any places?
#Person2#: Well. I guess I can ask around to see if anyone's got a room or apartment available.
#Person1#: Thank you. I think I should also have a look at the Internet to see if anyone's got a sublet.
#Person2#: How much do are you looking to spend?
#Person1#: I can only afford about 1, 000 yuan a month.
#Person2#: Looks like you'll have to get a place in the suburbs.
#Person1#: It doesn't matter, but it needs to be close to the subway or on a convenient bus route.
#Person2#: Anything you need to have in the place?
#Person1#: I want a bedroom with full bath, and it'll be better if the bedroom is on the sunny side.
#Person2#: You can also check out university bulletin boards.
#Person1#: Why? Will those be students who are leaving?
#Person2#: Not really, but landlords put up notices to attract students and they often have low rent.
#Person1#: Thank you. I'll be sure to take a look.
#Person2#: Good luck.

Summary: #Person1# has to find a new place to live with 1,000 yuan a month. #Person2# suggests #Person1# check out university bulletin boards.


#Person1#: Here's the dress you wanted it to be made.
#Person2#: Oh, dear!
#Person1#: What's the matter?
#Person2#: It's not what I asked for.
#Person1#: What's wrong with it?
#Person2#: It's not the right material. Or the right color. I can't possibly accept it.
#Person1#: This is a pity!

Summary: The dress #Person1# offers is not what #Person2# wants.


#Person1#: Good afternoon, madam. How can I help you?
#Person2#: Well, I am a bit out of shape. I'm thinking about getting some exercises to keep fit.
#Person1#: Oh, that's good news for us.
#Person2#: So what do you provide?
#Person1#: First of all, we'll design a custom-made work-out plan according to your habits.
#Person2#: How can you get that done?
#Person1#: Well, we give each of our customers a personal trainer who is qualified. And he will give you a fitness assessment and then come up with the work-out plan for your needs.
#Person2#: What else?
#Person1#: Since everyone is different, your personal trainer will find you a suitable type of exercise equipment and teach you all the techniques to help you achieve your fitness level and goal.
#Person2#: Sounds pretty good. What about the charge?
#Person1#: That depends. We offer membership for one month, half a year and one year.
#Person2#: Maybe one month. Just have a try first. Not too tough at the beginning.
#Person1#: Wise decision. You'll find it's totally worth it.

Summary: #Person2# wants to exercise and consults #Person1#. #Person1# tells her about the custom-made work-out plan, personal trainers, and the charge. #Person2# decides to try for one month.


#Person1#: The government is going to organize a folk-custom activity at the end of the month. And our community is supposed to put on a performance.
#Person2#: What kind of performance? A lion dance?
#Person1#: Stuff like that but I think the lion dance is a bit too difficult and dangerous.
#Person2#: Sure, you'll be dancing with lions. What do you expect? Then what about Range Dance which we did before.
#Person1#: Good idea. Shall we get everyone in the community?
#Person2#: Maybe not. I think we should just focus on the retired people.
#Person1#: I know that they already have a Range Dance team and then what we need is just to do some rehearsals.
#Person2#: What about the costumes?
#Person1#: We can raise money in the community. You know each family 10 yuan maybe.
#Person2#: Try something new. We can find a supporting agency.
#Person1#: Great idea. There is a travel agency nearby who would love to be our sponsor. It's a perfect chance for them to promote ethnic tourism.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# decide to do Range Dance for the folk-custom activity. They will focus on the retired people and ask a travel agency to be their sponsor.


#Person1#: Is there anything I can do for you?
#Person2#: Would you please show me that mural?
#Person1#: Certainly. Here you are.
#Person2#: It looks so beautiful. How much is it?
#Person1#: Four hundred yuan.
#Person2#: That's a bit more than I wanted to pay. Can you cut the price down a bit?
#Person1#: I'm sorry. Ours is a fixed price shop and I can assure you this is the best price you can get for a mural like this.
#Person2#: Maybe you are right. OK, I'll take it.
#Person1#: Well, I'll have it wrapped for you.
#Person2#: Thank you. Here is four hundred yuan.
#Person1#: Thank you. Please come again.

Summary: #Person2# is attracted by a mural but #Person1# refuses to bargain over the price. #Person2# takes it at the original price.


#Person1#: What do you know about Albert Einstein's childhood?
#Person2#: He studied the violin between the age of 6 and 13.
#Person1#: What was little Albert like in primary school?
#Person2#: Well, he was rather shy and couldn't get along well with the other boys. He used to ask a lot of questions. He did not enjoy school much. He did poorly in all subjects other than math and science. He began teaching himself math and science at the age of 10.
#Person1#: Did he learn much at school?
#Person2#: No, he learned more on his own than at school. He taught himself advanced math and science by the time he was a teenager.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# what Albert Einstein was like in his childhood.


#Person1#: Have you been registered yet, sir?
#Person2#: No, I haven't been registered.
#Person1#: Are you a medical or surgical case?
#Person2#: I'm a medical case.
#Person1#: Do you have your medical history sheet with you?
#Person2#: Yes, here you are.
#Person1#: Please fill in this admission card. Well, how long do you expect to stay in the hospital?
#Person2#: The doctor told me to stay about one month.
#Person1#: But there're no beds available now. Two patients will be discharged this afternoon, so you'll have to wait until then.
#Person2#: Well, when they leave the hospital, give me a call and I'll come back.
#Person1#: Certainly. See you in the afternoon.

Summary: #Person2# applies to stay in the hospital but there're no beds available. #Person2# requests #Person1# to call him when the bed's available.


#Person1#: Northward Airways, good morning. May I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, do you have any flights to Sydney next Tuesday afternoon?
#Person1#: One moment, please. . . Yes. There's a flight at 16:45 and one at 18:00.
#Person2#: That's fine. Could you tell me how much a return flight costs? I'll be staying three weeks.
#Person1#: Economy, business class or first class ticket?
#Person2#: Economy, please.
#Person1#: That would be 346 Euro.
#Person2#: OK. Could I make a reservation?
#Person1#: Certainly. Which flight would you like?
#Person2#: The 16:45, please.
#Person1#: Could I have your name, please?
#Person2#: My name is Mary Jones, that's M-A-R-Y J-O-N-E-S.
#Person1#: How would you like to pay, Ms. Jones?
#Person2#: Can I pay at the check-in desk when I pick up my ticket?
#Person1#: Yes, but you will have to confirm this reservation at least two hours before departure time.
#Person2#: I see.
#Person1#: Now you have been booked, Ms. Jones. The flight leaves at 16:45, and your arrival in Sydney will be at 9:00 a. m. , local time. The flight number is NWA 476.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# in Northward Airways helps Mary Jones to book a flight to Sydney, and #Person1# asks her to confirm the reservation at least two hours before departure time and pay for the economy ticket.


#Person1#: Of course! Of course! Here you are. Thank you so much.
#Person2#: Are you looking for anything else?
#Person1#: Um, let me see. Hmm. This antique tea set here is gorgeous.
#Person2#: That was a thirtieth birthday present. You can have it if you want.
#Person1#: Really? No, no, I couldn't! You're too nice!
#Person2#: And these old Dutch candle holders would go nicely with the tea set. Have them.
#Person1#: Gee! I don't know what to say! Thanks so much.

Summary: #Person2# gives #Person1# a tea set and some old Dutch candle holders.


#Person1#: There will be another sandstorm here tomorrow.
#Person2#: It's the fourth one this year. Isn't it horrible.
#Person1#: Yes. We should plant more trees and grass to stop the sand from spreading.
#Person2#: It may take many years for the trees to grow. I hope people will stop cutting down trees.
#Person1#: But we need the wood.
#Person2#: But we can't destroy our forests to get the wood.

Summary: In terms of the sandstorm, #Person1# prefers to plant more trees and grass, but #Person2# thinks stopping cutting down trees is quicker.


#Person1#: What a beautiful sweater!
#Person2#: Do you think it looks good on me?
#Person1#: Yes, and it goes beautifully with your pants.
#Person2#: You won't believe it, but it was really cheap.
#Person1#: I wish I could find one just like it.

Summary: #Person1# admires #Person2#'s sweater and #Person2# tells #Person1# it was cheap.


#Person1#: What is this eviction notice for?
#Person2#: The notice you received is a 30 - day notice to vacate.
#Person1#: Are you kidding me?
#Person2#: I mentioned to you before that you need to keep up with your rent. This notice to evict is letting you know that I mean business.
#Person1#: You can't just throw me out on the street!
#Person2#: You have 30 days to catch up on your rent, or a sheriff will evict you.
#Person1#: Will you still throw me out if I make the rent payment?
#Person2#: You can stay, but you might think about looking for a less expensive living arrangement if you are having trouble making the payments.
#Person1#: I am going to take care of the rent payment right now.
#Person2#: Thank you. The payment needs to be in the form of cash or a cashier's check.

Summary: #Person1# got an eviction notice and #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person1# has 30 days to pay the rent or a sheriff will evict #Person1#. #Person1# pays the rent right now.


#Person1#: You say he was around average height.
#Person2#: Yes, that's right, around five nine five ten.
#Person1#: Weight?
#Person2#: I'm not sure. Medium I suppose. Maybe a little on the heavy side.
#Person1#: Any marks on his face?
#Person2#: No, I don't think so.
#Person1#: Glasses?
#Person2#: No.
#Person1#: What about his hair?
#Person2#: Black or dark brown.
#Person1#: Long or short? Straight? Curly?
#Person2#: Straight, I think, and about average length
#Person1#: Boy, this sure doesn't help us much. It could be anybody. How about his cloth? What was he wearing?

Summary: #Person1# is describing the appearance of a certain man to #Person2#.


#Person1#: I am considering going for the new job that was posted yesterday.
#Person2#: Are you certain that that is what you want to do?
#Person1#: It may not be the best choice for me, but I am considering it.
#Person2#: Why do you think that this would be a good move?
#Person1#: I believe that this job would allow me to move up but might be a little boring for me.
#Person2#: Yes, there are always pros and cons to making a career change.
#Person1#: Also, the matter of pay is also a consideration.
#Person2#: I think the slight pay decrease might be worth it. The benefits are much better.
#Person1#: Yes, sometimes giving up a little to move forward is the best choice.
#Person2#: I think you should definitely apply for the position.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# the job might be a good move for #Person1# but might be boring. Though the pay decreases, #Person2# thinks the benefits are better.


#Person1#: This is going to surprise you, but I'm happy. I think you're making the right move.
#Person2#: You do?
#Person1#: Look, maybe I shouldn't tell you this, but I'v going over to WebTracker, too.
#Person2#: No way! That's great! Then we'll still be together!
#Person1#: Actually, I'm already working for WebTracker. Vince never wanted to give me what I was worth, so I figured, what the heck.
#Person2#: No kidding! I can't believe this. You devil!
#Person1#: It's kind of cool, isn't it? I'm sort of like a secret agent.

Summary: #Person1# is going over to WebTracker with #Person2#, which surprises #Person2#.


#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, I need to buy a computer for this semester. I was told it is cheaper to buy computers here.
#Person1#: Well, you heard right. You can get an excellent deal on a new computer here. We have great discounts for students.
#Person2#: I don't know much about computers. But I know I want a desktop computer with a lot of memory. And I need a printer.
#Person1#: Well, first let's consider your computer. Here, for example, is a system I highly recommend-the Power Macintosh G3. it comes with 64 megabytes of total memory.
#Person2#: Is that a lot? Sixty-four?
#Person1#: Yes, it is. It should be enough for any student needs you might have. What department are you in?
#Person2#: History.
#Person1#: Well, so you will mostly be using word processing, for writing papers. I recommend the Corel Word Perfect program for word processing. We can talk about software later. Let's talk about your hardware first. We have a special deal on right now. I should tell you about it, as it only goes until next Tuesday. If you buy one of these fifteen-inch color monitors with a Power Macintosh G3, you can actually get 30 percent off the usual sale price.
#Person2#: Thirty percent?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: Wow. That's really good. And you think this is really a good system for a graduate student?
#Person1#: Yes. It's an excellent system.
#Person2#: Hmm. Hey, wait. This has an Apple on it. Is this an Apple computer?
#Person1#: Yes, it's a Macintosh. It's Apple. Mcintosh and Apple are the same thing.
#Person2#: I don't want Macintosh. I want PC.
#Person1#: I'm sorry, but our university computer center only sells Macintosh equipment.
#Person2#: What? Are you serious?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: But nobody uses Macintosh!
#Person1#: That's not true. Most of the students and professors in the university here use Macintosh. They find it is better for writing and word-processing, and that is what students mostly do. May I ask where you're from?
#Person2#: Yes, I'm from Taiwan.
#Person1#: Well, I know that in most Asian countries Apple is not very popular. But here in America, especially in universities and publishing companies, Apple is very commonly used.
#Person2#: But I need a computer that can handle writing in Chinese.
#Person1#: There are several Chinese writing programs you can use with Macintosh. Chinese is no problem for Apple.
#Person2#: Hmm. I think I should ask some of my friends for advice before I make a decision. I'm sorry.
#Person1#: No, don't be sorry. It's reasonable to ask your friends. But believe me, most of the students here in the university-Asian students included-most of them use Apple.
#Person2#: Well, thanks for your advice. I will probably come back later.
#Person1#: You're very welcome. Here is my card, if you need any help.

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy a computer with a lot of memory and a printer. #Person1# recommends the Apple Macintosh which is popular among most of the students and professors in the university, but #Person2# wants a PC. So #Person2# will ask some friends for advice to consider whether to buy Macintosh.


#Person1#: Can you help me with this math problem?
#Person2#: Actually, I don't know how to do it, either. You should probably just ask the teacher.
#Person1#: I thought you always got 100% on all your math tests.
#Person2#: I usually do, but sometimes I need help, too.
#Person1#: How long do you usually study for a test?
#Person2#: About 2 hours the night before, and then an hour or so earlier in the week.
#Person1#: I need to study more. Maybe we can study together.
#Person2#: Sure, I'd be happy to help you.
#Person1#: I'm going to ask the teacher about this problem. I'll let you know what he says.
#Person2#: Sounds good to me.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# for help with a math problem but #Person2# doesn't know either. #Person1# suggests studying together and will ask the teacher instead.


#Person1#: I see you have bought the latest copy of beauty and fashion. Are there any interesting articles in it?
#Person2#: There's an interesting interview with a top fashion designer about the latest fashions. I enjoyed reading her thought. The which? section is very interesting this month. They tested facial cleaners. T
#Person1#: I like to take the tests that they print in this magazine.
#Person2#: Which tests do you mean?
#Person1#: You know. Tests like how jealous are you? and are you a fashion victim?
#Person2#: Oh, I see. I like to do those tests, too, but I don't take them seriously.
#Person1#: Of course not, but sometimes the results make you think about yourself and what you do. According to the jealousy test, I'm quite a jealous type of person. Perhaps I need to control my jealousy.
#Person2#: You're right. It's sometimes hard to tell which pages are advertisement and which ones are articles.

Summary: #Person2# asks about the magazine #Person1# bought. Both #Person1# and #Person2# likes to take the tests in the magazine but #Person2# doesn't take the tests seriously.


#Person1#: How are you today?
#Person2#: Great, thanks.
#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: I would actually like to view the apartment for rent today.
#Person1#: I ' m sorry, but you won ' t be able to view it today.
#Person2#: Why not?
#Person1#: You have to make an appointment first.
#Person2#: Oh, okay. Can I do that right now?
#Person1#: Is this Friday okay?
#Person2#: Is 6 o ' clock Friday evening okay?
#Person1#: Yes, I will schedule you for that time.
#Person2#: Thank you very much. See you then.

Summary: #Person2# wants to view the apartment for rent today but #Person1# asks #Person2# to make an appointment first.


#Person1#: Good evening. Do you have a reservation?
#Person2#: No, we don't.
#Person1#: How many people are you together?
#Person2#: Just two people.
#Person1#: Would you like to sit in a smoking section, a non-smoking section or whatever comes open first?
#Person2#: We prefer non-smoking section.
#Person1#: I am awfully sorry but there are no vacancies left now. Would you like to wait for a moment?
#Person2#: How long a wait do you think there'll be?
#Person1#: I think about ten minutes.
#Person2#: Ok, we'll wait a while.
#Person1#: I am sorry for making you wait so long. Now there is a table available in non-smoking section. Please follow me.
#Person2#: Thank you.
#Person1#: This is the menu. Are you ready to order now?
#Person2#: Well, I think I'd like to have a tomato sausage soup first. And the same for him, please.
#Person1#: Yes, and what would you like to drink?
#Person2#: One goblet of red wine and one bottle of beer please.
#Person1#: Would you like a dessert?
#Person2#: What special kind of desserts do you have?
#Person1#: Lemon pie, hot cake in syrup, chocolate sundae and custard pudding.
#Person2#: Well, I think we will order after we finish the main course.
#Person1#: All right. I'll bring your soup right away.

Summary: #Person2# goes to a restaurant without a reservation, so #Person2# waits for non-smoking section vacancy for a while. After #Person2# is seated, #Person1# helps #Person2# order the main course and drink.


#Person1#: Can you tell the result?
#Person2#: It's love all.
#Person1#: Now the score is in our favor.
#Person2#: Can you tell which team seems to win?
#Person1#: Hard to say. Now the score is in our favor.
#Person2#: Yes. Our guest team is really tough.
#Person1#: They're still fighting hard. Let's wait and see.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are watching a game.


#Person1#: Elizabeth, what's your question?
#Person2#: Excuse me, could you tell me what a yard sale is?
#Person1#: As the name suggests, it's a sale held in someones yard selling used goods.
#Person2#: What can I get there?
#Person1#: You can find books, records, cups and furniture. You name it and they will have it.
#Person2#: Why do American people love to buy secondhand goods?
#Person1#: To save money, of course. Some people even hope to find treasures there.
#Person2#: I see.
#Person1#: Actually many westerners like other peoples' objects. Even rich people search through used goods for a treasure.
#Person2#: I understand. Thank you, Mr. Green. You've been very helpful.
#Person1#: You're welcome.

Summary: Mr. Green tells Elizabeth what a yard sale is, what she can get there, and why Americans love buying secondhand goods.


#Person1#: Has everything been OK with you lately?
#Person2#: I haven't been able to get a good night's sleep lately. I'm exhausted!
#Person1#: Have you been too busy to get enough sleep?
#Person2#: I try to go to sleep, but I just can't stay asleep.
#Person1#: How late do you try to go to sleep?
#Person2#: I go to bed when I finish my work.
#Person1#: Has anything in your day-to-day life been bothering you lately?
#Person2#: I am worried about how I am going to pay my tuition.
#Person1#: You might consider listening to relaxing music as you go to sleep to clear your head.
#Person2#: Doing something relaxing before I go to sleep sounds like a plan.

Summary: #Person2# hasn't been able to sleep well lately because #Person2#'s worried about paying #Person2#'s tuition. #Person1# suggests listening to relaxing music.


#Person1#: Roy why do you look so happy today?
#Person2#: I was praised by my new boss today.
#Person1#: Really?
#Person2#: Yes, you know a couple of months ago there was a problem in my department. A new system meant that you had to sign in and out all the time. Many people didn't like this, because there was only one place you could sign in. Which was a long way from where most people work when the new boss came he asked for solving methods and I suggested we put signing in stations at several locations. Today, he told me he would take the advice and he gave me $200 as an award.
#Person1#: Wow. That's great news, but don't act so excited in your company, your colleagues may not like you.
#Person2#: OK.

Summary: Roy feels happy for being praised by his boss. #Person1# reminds Roy not to act excited in the company.


#Person1#: Good morning, sir. How may I help you?
#Person2#: Good morning! Do you have any rooms available at the moment?
#Person1#: Yes, we do. What kind of room would you like?
#Person2#: I'd like a suite for four nights.
#Person1#: Please wait a moment while I check availability. Ah, I'm sorry, sir. We only have a double room available now.
#Person2#: That's all right. How much do they cost?
#Person1#: Each night costs 320 RIB, but for a four night stay, we can offer a discount of 15 %.
#Person2#: How much in total?
#Person1#: 1088 RIB.
#Person2#: Is breakfast included?
#Person1#: Yes, it is. You also have free use of the leisure facilities here.
#Person2#: That's fine. I'll get it.
#Person1#: OK. Please fill out this form with your details.
#Person2#: I would like to pay by cash. Do I need to pay a deposit?
#Person1#: Yes, you do. There is a 300 RMB deposit, which we will refund when you check out. So, in total, you need to pay 1388 RIB.
#Person2#: Fine. Here you are.
#Person1#: Thank you. Here's your key and receipt. Your room number is 408. A porter will take your luggage to your room. The elevator is just around the corner.
#Person2#: Thank you very much.
#Person1#: It is my pleasure, sir. I wish you a pleasant stay here. Goodbye!
#Person2#: Bye-bye!

Summary: #Person1# helps #Person2# book and check-in a double room for four-night with a discount of 15%. #Person1# tells #Person2# that the breakfast is included and leisure facilities are free to use. #Person2# pays 1388 RIB, including 300 RMB deposit, in cash.


#Person1#: I need to order new business cards.
#Person2#: Do you have any idea how many you'd like?
#Person1#: I think 2, 000 would be enough.
#Person2#: Would you fill out this form, please?
#Person1#: I don't want to make any changes to my old card.
#Person2#: If you detect any difference, I'll take you out to dinner.
#Person1#: . . . Okay, that's it. Here's the form, and here's my old card to use as a model.
#Person2#: Thank you. Your order will be ready seven days from now.
#Person1#: I need it sooner. Let me have it in three days, okay?
#Person2#: We can certainly give you faster turnaround, but it will cost you extra.

Summary: #Person1# orders 2,000 new business cards with #Person2# assistance. #Person1# wants them sooner. #Person2# tells #Person1# it will cost more.


#Person1#: May I come in?
#Person2#: Yes, please.
#Person1#: How are you doing, Madam? My name is During Wu. I am coming to your company for an interview as requested.
#Person2#: Fine, thank you for coming. Mr. Wu, Please take a seat. I am Anne Smith, the assistant manager.
#Person1#: Nice to see you, Mrs. Smith.
#Person2#: Nice to meet you, too.

Summary: During Wu comes to the company for an interview and the assistant manager Anne Smith introduces herself.


#Person1#: They are professors and government officials.
#Person2#: Where are they from?
#Person1#: Most of them are from America and Europe.
#Person2#: What are they doing in Beijing?
#Person1#: They are attending an international conference here.
#Person2#: Which hotel are they staying at?
#Person1#: They are staying at the Hilton Hotel.

Summary: #Person2# asks #Person1# about the professors and government officials.


#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes. My daughter bought this camera here for my wife's birthday. But it doesn't work. So I'd like to change it for another one.
#Person1#: I see. Let me have a look. Well, we'll be happy to change it for you. But I am afraid we don't have another pink one.
#Person2#: Oh? What will I do then?
#Person1#: Would you like to choose a different color? We do have this camera in black and orange.
#Person2#: My wife doesn't like either of those colors.
#Person1#: If you want, we can order another camera just like this one. There wouldn't be any extra charge for it.
#Person2#: That sounds fine. Would you please go ahead and do that?
#Person1#: We'd be very happy to but it'll take at least a week. Maybe ten days. We'll call you when it comes in.
#Person2#: Thank you very much.
#Person1#: You are welcome.

Summary: #Person2# wants to change the camera his daughter bought for his wife because it doesn't work. #Person1# says they don't have another pink one but could order one. #Person2# agrees.


#Person1#: Take care, Peter. Don't run so fast. Are you tired?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. May I sit on the grass?
#Person1#: No, you mustn't sit on the grass. Don't you see the notes?
#Person2#: Yes, I can see it. But what's on it?
#Person1#: It says Keep off the grass!
#Person2#: Well, there's a bench under the tree. We can sit there.
#Person1#: Be careful. You can't smoke here.
#Person2#: Why not?
#Person1#: Can't you see the notes there? It says No smoking here.

Summary: #Person1# asks Peter not to sit on the grass nor to smoke because there're notes.


#Person1#: So, how was your vacation? You went to Paris, didn't you?
#Person2#: Yeah, with my parents. We just got back on Saturday. It was wonderful!
#Person1#: What sights did you visit?
#Person2#: Well, we saw all the most famous places, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral... They were so interesting.
#Person1#: Did you take any tours?
#Person2#: Just one - a boat tour on the Seine River.
#Person1#: Wow! That sounds fantastic.
#Person2#: Yeah. It was a great way to see the city.
#Person1#: Did you go to any of the famous art museums?
#Person2#: Yeah. My parents love art, so they spent hours in the museums. But for me, it was pretty boring. I'm just not very interested in paintings.
#Person1#: So, what else did you do?
#Person2#: Well, I guess my favorite thing to do was just to sit in cafes and watch the people. It was really relaxing, and French coffee is terrific.
#Person1#: It sounds like a great vacation to me. But I have work at hand. Hopefully I'll be there one day.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# what #Person2# did during the vocation to Paris. #Person2# saw all the most famous places and enjoyed sitting in cafes most. #Person1#'s looking forward to a vacation.


#Person1#: Could you have my car ready at 5:00 please?
#Person2#: The damage is very serious.
#Person1#: But I have to use it this afternoon. How about 5: 30?
#Person2#: Well, I'll do my best. I promise you can take it at 5:15.

Summary: #Person2# promises #Person1# to have #Person1#'s car ready at 5:15.


#Person1#: Put on the helmet, please.
#Person2#: Do we need to put on the jackets too?
#Person1#: You ' d better, to protect your clothes. Now please watch your step.
#Person2#: Thank you. Is the production line fully automated?
#Person1#: Well, not fully automated.
#Person2#: I see. How do you control the quality?
#Person1#: All products have to go through five checks in the whole manufacturing process.
#Person2#: What ' s the monthly output?
#Person1#: One thousand units per month now. But we ' ll be making 1, 200 units beginning with October.
#Person2#: What ' s your usual percentage of rejects?
#Person1#: About 2 % in normal operations.
#Person2#: That ' s wonderful. Is that where the finished products come off?
#Person1#: Yes. Shall we take a break now?

Summary: #Person1# shows #Person2# production line and answers #Person2#'s questions about automation, product checks, monthly output, and the percentage of rejects.


#Person1#: I'm so relieved that your ankle wasn't broken! I feel just awful about this whole thing. I wanna make it up to you. Let me take you out to dinner tonight. My treat.
#Person2#: That sounds great! I'd love to! Here is my address. Pick me up at eight?
#Person1#: Perfect!
#Person2#: Thank you for such a lovely evening! The food was amazing, and I had a great time.
#Person1#: Me too. You look so beautiful tonight! I wish this night would never end. There's something I have to tell you. . .
#Person2#: What is it?
#Person1#: I woke up today thinking this would be just like any other ordinary day, but I was wrong. A twist of fate brought us together. I crashed into your life and you into mine, and this may sound crazy, but I'm falling in love with you, Veronica.

Summary: #Person1# invites Veronica for dinner to make it up to her. Veronica agrees. They have a lovely evening and #Person1# shows love to Veronica.


#Person1#: hi, Natasha, how's life?
#Person2#: great. My family came to visit me.
#Person1#: oh, you must be very happy. How many people are there in your family?
#Person2#: my immediate family is very large. It's my mother, my father, my two older brothers, my younger sister and me.
#Person1#: I have a small family. They are my parents, my younger brother and me.
#Person2#: I thought you were the only child in the family. Didn't China practice the only-child policy in the early 1980s?
#Person1#: yes, it did. But my parents are ethnic minority people. It's a preferential policy for an ethnic minority family to have two children.
#Person2#: interesting. What do you think about families with only one child?
#Person1#: the child must feel very longly. My younger brother is 10 years younger than me. Before he was born, I used to be the only child and always dreamed that I would have a younger sister or brother one day.
#Person2#: do you get along well with each other?
#Person1#: yes, we are very close. He is 12 years old and very smart. He always makes us laugh a lot.
#Person2#: you are very lucky to have such a nice family.
#Person1#: thank you.

Summary: Natasha tells #Person1# her family came to visit her. Then they talk about their family. Natasha's immediate family is very large. #Person1# has a small family including a 12-year-old brother.


#Person1#: The prevailing attitude about premarital contracting is that it spoils the whole concept of marriage, love, and trust. How do you counter that?
#Person2#: First of all, most of us hear about premarital contracting when someone rich and famous gets divorced and about all the battles they are going through. I know when my husband and I decided that we wanted to have a premarital contract, my son said 'Why you guys doing that? Don't you trust each other?' So it's not surprising that people's initial reaction is a negative one. But in fact, premarital contracting is a way that we can learn more about each other, make each other feel more comfortable about issues that are of concerns, and certainly clarify money concerns. This way, we can talk about them, decide together how we want our marriage to work, and if necessary, and only if necessary, we put it in a premarital contract, a legal document.
#Person1#: Each year, there is one divorce for every two marriages. And a substantial portion of those who have divorced remarry. Is the notion of the premarital contract simply for those who are entering second marriages, or is it also something for the people getting married for the first time?
#Person3#: Premarital contracting is a communication process. I think all of us, whatever age we are, whatever financial status we have, we have things to talk about. And if we avoid doing that and wait until there are problems, it's almost too late. I think that no matter what age, whether we've been married once or not, whether we have stepchildren, whether we have assets, it's important to communicate and consider a legal document.

Summary: #Person1# asks about premarital contracting. #Person2# is not surprised that people's initial reaction towards premarital contracting is negative but still thinks it's a way to learn more about each other. #Person3# thinks that premarital contracting is a communication process and it's important to communicate and consider a legal document.


#Person1#: Want to go with me to get some pizza, Sally?
#Person2#: No, Brad, I'm waiting for a package to be delivered.
#Person1#: This is why I hate shopping online. It would be faster to just get what you want from the store. Now you have to sit here all day. Is it mom home?
#Person2#: No, mom went to work.
#Person1#: Just downloaded app to keep track of your package. You can just come back when you get a delivery notice.
#Person2#: No, thanks, Mr. Bossy. Even they leave the package for a short time, someone could steal it.
#Person1#: Goodness. You just don't want to be seen with your little brother.
#Person2#: It's not that. I really did plan to stay home and wait for this package. Why don't we just had pizza delivered?
#Person1#: Great! (?) waiting.

Summary: #Person1# wants to get pizza but Sally plans to stay home to wait for a package. They decide to have the pizza delivered instead.


#Person1#: Here is the document you asked for this morning.
#Person2#: Oh, you are so efficient. I thought you might give it to me tomorrow. Thanks.
#Person1#: You're welcome. You know, these days I have been reflecting on my biggest weakness procrastination. The more I think about it, the more I hate myself for being so disorganized. I decided to change the situation as soon as possible. Otherwise I will be more regretful later.
#Person2#: This is encouraging news, good for you! What is your solution, then?
#Person1#: The most useful method is to make plans and set priorities. It helps me to manage time well and get the most important things done at the first place.
#Person2#: Sounds not bad! Better performance isn't just about doing a lot more. It is about focusing on the right things to do.

Summary: #Person1# wants to get rid of procrastination and decides to make plans and set priorities. #Person2# thinks it's good for #Person1#.


#Person1#: Hello, Tom Wilson's. Can I help you?
#Person2#: Hi. It's Emma Lloyd here. I'm calling about my motorbike. Is it ready to be collected yet?
#Person1#: Can you remind me what's the brand of the bike?
#Person2#: It's a City Zip. It's blue.
#Person1#: Oh yes, we had to order in some parts. But they still haven't arrived yet I'm afraid.
#Person2#: Do you know when the bike will be ready to pick up?
#Person1#: Sorry, I don't know. But our cooler suppliers and find out if they've sent out the spare parts yet. Once the parts are here, we can fix the bike in 2 or 3 days.
#Person2#: OK, I'll give you a call at the end of the week then.
#Person1#: Sure.

Summary: Emma Lloyd phones Tom Wilson's to ask whether her motorbike is fixed. Tom tells her some parts still haven't arrived. Emma will call at the end of the week.


#Person1#: Hi, I have a doctor's appointment scheduled with Dr. Smith, and I need to change it.
#Person2#: What day did you have it scheduled for?
#Person1#: My appointment was on Tuesday.
#Person2#: What time was it scheduled for?
#Person1#: It was for two o'clock in the afternoon.
#Person2#: I see your appointment. What day would you like to switch to?
#Person1#: I would like to switch it to next Friday.
#Person2#: What time would you like?
#Person1#: I would like to come in at 10
#Person2#: Fine, I will pencil that in right now. We will see you then.

Summary: #Person2# serves #Person1# to reschedule the appointment with Dr. Smith to next Friday at 10.