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PET Primer - Copyright © Prof.ssa Vanna Bullock, docente Centro Studi Casnati, 2012 – www.centrocasnati.it. Il presente ebook, eccetto dove diversamente specificato, è rilasciato nei termini della licenza Creative Commons Attribuzione – Condividi allo stesso modo 3.0 (CC BY-SA 3.0) il cui testo integrale è disponibile al sito http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.it 

PET Speaking

General Introduction

The candidates are assessed in pairs. If the number of candidates is odd, three candidates will be tested together in the final group.  There are two examiners: one of them acting as the assessor and the other as the interlocutor. The assessor takes no part in the interaction. The whole exam lasts 10-12 minutes. It carries 25% of the marks.

Useful language for any part of the test

Could you repeat that, please?

Could you say that again, please?

Sorry, I didn't catch that.

I'm sorry. I don't understand what you want me to do.

I don't know the word for this in English.

It's like a …

It's similar to ...

It's something you use for ...

It's what you do when ...

Part 1

In this part of the test, the examiner addresses each candidate in turn, asking them simple questions about personal details, daily routines, likes and dislikes, etc. Candidates will have to spell their names or some other word (e.g. name of home town, country of origin). They are not expected to provide particularly long answers at this stage.

The exam will start with the interlocutor saying:

“Good morning /afternoon / evening. Can I have your mark sheets, please? (you will be given the mark sheets before you enter the room where the exam takes place). I'm …. and this is … she / he is just going to listen to us.”

Sample questions

What’s your name?

What's your surname / family name?

Can you spell it?

How do you spell it?

Which grade / year are you in?

Do you study English at school?

Do you like it? Why? / Do you like studying English?/ Do you enjoy studying English?

Do you think that English will be useful to you in the future?

What do you enjoy about studying English?

What do you find difficult about studying English?

Will you go on learning English?

Tell me about your English teacher.

What do you study?

How do you get to school?

How long does it take you to get to school?

What's your favourite subject?

Have you got any brothers or sisters?

Tell us about your family.

Where do you come from? / Where do you live?

How long have you lived there?

Do you live in a village, a town or a city?

What do you like about the place where you live?

What don't you like about the place where you live?

What did you do yesterday evening?

What did you do last weekend?

What are your plans for next weekend?

What do you enjoy doing in your free time / spare time?

Which is your favourite season? / Which season of the year do you like the most?

What's the weather like in winter / summer / autumn / spring / in the area where you live?

How do you spend your Saturdays / Sundays?

Which sports do you like playing or doing?

Which sports do you like watching?

Where would you like to go for your next holiday?

What countries / places would you like to visit in the future?

How old are you?

When were you born?

Can you play any musical instruments?

What kind of music do you like?

What kind of books do you like reading?

Do you enjoy watching TV?

Tell me about the kind of TV programmes you enjoy.

What do you want to be when you leave school?

Are you planning to go to university?

Part 2

You will be given a sheet with visual prompts to help you engage in a simulated situation. Try to say something about all the prompts. In this part of the test, the candidates speak to each other. Remember this should sound like a natural conversation between two friends. Turn towards the other student before starting this task.

This part of the exam tests how good you are at: using grammar (e.g. comparatives, superlatives,  modal verbs, etc.) discussing alternatives, giving reasons, making suggestions, responding to suggestions, negotiating agreement, interacting. Don't worry if you fail to come to an agreement.

This is what the examiner will say:

“In the next part, you are going to talk to each other. I'm going to describe a situation to you. (The examiner describes the situation). Talk together about … and then decide … And here's a picture with some ideas that might help you.” 

Useful language

Starting

Shall we start with this one?

Let's start with this one, shall we?

Which one shall we start with?

Shall I start?

Would you like me to start?

Would you like to start?

Let's talk about … first.

Suggesting

Why don’t we …?

How about + noun / -ing?

What about + noun / -ing?

Let’s …

Shall we …?

We could ...

I think (noun / activity) would be a good idea.

Shall we go on to the next one?

Asking for opinions

What about this one?

How do you feel about that?

What do you think?

What do you think of this one?

Do you think that’s a good idea?

Do you agree?

What shall we … ?

Which do you think is best?

Use question tags (e.g. This one is not really suitable, is it?)

Expressing opinions

I prefer… because

I'd prefer to + infinitive

I think this is best because…

I think we should … because ...

I'd rather + infinitive without to (e.g. I'd rather go to the science museum.)

Personally, I think …

In my opinion, ….

Agreeing

True.

That's true.

I agree.

That's a good idea.

That's a great idea.

That's a good point.

That's interesting.

I see what you mean.

Of course.

Absolutely!

Definitely!

I completely agree with you.

I suppose so.

I guess so.

You're right.

You could be right.

Right.

What a good idea!

Yes, O.K.

All right.

Yes, why not?

So do I.

Nor do I.

Me too.

Me neither.

Uh-huh

Disagreeing

Well, I’m not so sure about that.

I don’t think that’s such a good idea.

I don’t think so because …

I don't think that 's a good idea.

Yes, but …

That’s true, but …

I see what you mean, but …

I don't think so.

Actually, I think it would be better to ...

Definitely not!

Perhaps, but …

I see what you mean, but …

I'm not so keen on …

Giving reasons

… because …

For one thing …

The thing is …

The problem is ...

Adding

And another point is …

Yes, and also …

Talking about needs

He'll probably need … because …

He'll definitely need … because …

He should take … because ….

Choosing/summing up

Which one shall we choose?

So, shall we choose this one?

So, …. then?

Do we agree that this is the best one?

So, what have we decided?

What do you think we should choose?

Let's choose …

Let's go for …

All right, we've decided.

So, we think …

Let's agree to disagree.

Part 3

How to describe a picture/photograph

In this part of the exam, each candidate is given a colour picture to describe. Both pictures are related to the same topic and they depict everyday situations. The assessor will give you credit for your ability to paraphrase if you do not know the word for something.

This is what the examiner will say:

“Now, I'd like each of you to talk on your own about something. I'm going to give each of you a photograph of … (topic). Candidate A, here is your photograph. Please show it to Candidate B, but I'd like you to talk about it. Candidate B, you just listen. I'll give you your photograph in a moment.”

When Candidate A has finished describing his/her picture, the examiner will say:

“Now, Candidate B, here's your photograph. It also shows … Please show it to Candidate A and tell us what you can see in your photograph.”

Remember there is no need to describe absolutely everything in the photo.

Useful language

Start with a general introduction

This picture / photograph shows …

In this picture / photograph I can see …

This is a picture / photograph of …

The photo was taken in / at …

In the picture / photograph, there is / there are …

In the picture /photograph, you can see ...

Say something about the place

It's a classroom / supermarket / playground / circus, etc. ,

I can see a sightseeing bus /an open-air market / a busy street.

The street is / looks crowded.

It's a very busy town.

Locate things and people in the picture

In the background

In the foreground

In the middle

On the left

On the right

At the top / at the bottom

At the back/ at the front

In the top left-hand corner

In the top right-hand corner

In the bottom left-hand corner

In the bottom right-hand corner

Between the … and the … there is a ...

For example

In the foreground, you can see a group of people playing cards.

Say something about the weather, if possible

It’s a sunny day.

It’s warm.

It's very foggy.

It must be summer/ winter/spring/ autumn because I can see people wearing …

Try to say something about any people you see in the picture

I can see a boy standing next to … / a young man sitting on a park bench  …

They may be …. because ….

They look like …  because ...

He's probably a … and she must be a ....

I think they are …

I suppose they are …

They look like sisters.

She is in her twenties / thirties, etc.

He is very young. I guess he's about 14.

They are teenagers.

She is middle-aged.

He is elderly.

She's quite tall.

He's rather fat.

They are very slim and attractive.

She's got long fair /dark hair.

She is wearing blue jeans and a green top.

She is dressed in pink.

She looks very smart.

The girl is wearing a school uniform.

What are they doing?

Remember to use the present continuous

They're having a meal.

She's reading a magazine.

They're working.       

Try to guess

Remember the look like + noun pattern    

I'm not sure, but it looks like Italy, because of the buildings.

Perhaps they have just (ordered something to eat).

Maybe they (need help).

I think this photo was taken in (England / France / China) because...

I think it is …

I guess it is …

I suppose it …

It could be …

It might be …

I'm afraid the picture is not very clear but, probably, …

Remember the seem to be + ing pattern

They seem to be (singing).

Say something about how the people are feeling:

Remember the look + adjective pattern

They look (bored) to me.

I think they're (bored) because they're (yawning).

They could be (housewives).

They may be (tired).
They are probably (waiting for the bus).

He seems a bit (scared).

Maybe she's (nervous) because she's (never travelled on her own).

Remember the it looks as if / as though + verb pattern

It looks as if (it's been raining).

It looks as though (they're having a party).           

Try to give more information about the setting

Behind the woman there is ...

Next to the school I can see …

Below that, there is ….

Above that, there is ...

Outside the window …

Remember it can be useful to say what you think has just happened or is about to happen

I think he has just come back from school.

I suppose she's about to go to bed.

If you don’t know how to say something, paraphrase

It’s a sort of …

It’s a place where …

It’s a thing you use to …

It's used for …

It's what you do when …

I don't know the word for it, but …

I don’t know what you call them, but they are like big umbrellas and protect you from the sun.

I don't remember the word for this. It's something ...

Give your opinion

It's a beautiful picture.

I like / don't like this picture because …

I think it's a very dangerous activity.

While you think of things to say, you could say

Ummm  ummm ...

Er ....

Well, ...

Let me see,  …

Part 4

In this part of the test, you will be talking together about your likes, dislikes, experiences, opinions, preferences. The topic will be closely related to the pictures you have just discussed. You will be given marks not only on your speaking skills but also on your active listening and turn-taking skills.

Remember this should sound like a natural conversation between two friends. Turn towards the other student when engaging in this task.  The interlocutor will not intervene once he has set up the task unless it is strictly necessary. He / she will say something like:

“Your photograph showed people having fun and partying. Now, I'd like you to talk together about how you had  fun when you were younger, and how you have fun now.”

Useful language

Talking about likes and dislikes

I love …

I really like …

I quite enjoy …

I'm quite keen on …

I'm really interested in ...

I don't mind …

I'd love to ..

I can't stand ….

I hate …

I find … quite boring / quite interesting / quite enjoyable.

I'm not all that interested in ...

I prefer … to … (e.g. I prefer reading to writing.)

Showing interest

Oh, that's interesting!

Really?

Oh, I see!

Did you?

I didn't know that.

Right.

Why not?

How come?

Wow!

Asking for opinions

What do you think of …?

How do you feel about …?

Examples of topics you might be asked to discuss in this part of the exam

Free time activities

Indoor activities

Outdoor activities

Things you enjoy doing with your family

Things you enjoy doing with your friends

Things you enjoy doing on your own

Activities you find boring

Entertainment

Music

Films

Books and reading habits

Shopping

Sports you like and dislike

Your use of computers

Your use of electronic devices of different kinds

Taking photographs

Children and parents

Accommodation

Studying habits

Food and drink

Eating out

Keeping fit

Fashion

Jobs you would like to do and jobs you would never consider doing

Travelling

Holidays

Festivals

Environmental problems

PET WRITING

Part 1

Things to remember:

Part 1 focuses on grammar.

 You are given five sentences to complete, all having a common theme. For each question, you are given a complete sentence and a gapped sentence. You are expected to complete the gapped sentence using from one to three words, so as to produce a sentence that will mean the same as the first sentence.

If you use more than three words, your answer will be marked as wrong even when the answer you give includes the correct answer.

Remember that contractions count as two words. When you write your answers on the answer sheet, write only the missing words.

Correct spelling is required as if a word is misspelled you will be awarded no marks.

This exercise carries 5 marks.

Main structures found in Part 1 of the Writing Paper with examples 

Remember that every structure may be tested in two ways. Take for example the first structure given. You might be required to go from 'there is / there are to 'have and have got' but you might also be asked to go from 'have / have got' to 'there is / there are'.

The list here below does not claim to be exhaustive but covers the most widely tested areas.

1. There is / there are and have / have got

There are three restaurants in town.

The town has (got) two restaurants.

2. Too + adjective and adjective + enough 

She is too young to drink in a pub.

She isn't old enough to drink in a pub.

3.Spend time doing something and take someone time to do something

She spent three hours doing the translation.

It took her three hours to do the translation.

4. Not much and only a little

We didn’t have much time.

We only had a little time.

5. Not many and only a few

They didn’t eat many sandwiches.

They only ate a few sandwiches.

6. Possessives and belong to

Are those your keys?

Do those keys belong to you?

7. Whose and belong to

Whose car is that?

Who does that car belong to?

8. Before, after / until

You must do your homework before you can go out and play.      
You can go out and play after you have done your homework.

You can't go out and play until you have done your homework.

9. Have enough money and afford

We didn’t have enough money to go to the restaurant.

We couldn’t afford to go to the restaurant.

10. By oneself and on one's own

He completed the puzzle by himself.

He completed the puzzle on his own.

11. Let's + infinitive without to, how about / what about + ing,  why don't and shall we?

Let's go for a walk.

How about going for a walk?

What about going for a walk?

Why don't we go for a walk?

Shall we go for a walk?        

12. Why don't you and If I were you

Why don't you ask him?

If I were you, I would ask him.

13. Advise and should

They advised me to book in advance.         
They said I should book two weeks in advance.

14. Present perfect (with for or since) and Past Simple (with ago)

He has had his car for six months.

He bought his car six months ago .

and

I have known Betty for five years.

I (first) met Betty five years ago.

Notice that here it was necessary to change a “state” verb (know) into an “action” verb (meet)

15. Never + present perfect + before and it's the first time + present perfect.

I have never drunk vodka before.

This is the first time I have drunk vodka.

16. Not  + present perfect + for and it 's + time + since + subject + (last) + past simple

I haven't heard from Mike for two months.  
It is two months since I (last) heard from Mike.

The last time I heard from Mike was two months ago.

17. When + past simple and How long ago + past simple

When did you last see Rebecca?

How long ago did you see Rebecca?

18. Past simple and used to.

He had a very old car before,

He used to have a very old car.

19. Used to and would

The children used to spend their holidays with their grandparents.

The children would spend their holidays with their grandparents.   

20. Like something more than and prefer something to something else

I like swimming more than skiing.    
I prefer swimming to skiing.  

21. Comparatives with adjectives

Gold is more expensive than silver.

Silver is less expensive than gold.

Silver isn't as expensive as gold.

22. Comparatives with adverbs

Paolo speaks better English than Davide.   
Davide doesn't speak English as well as Paolo.

23. Comparatives with nouns

There are more cars on the roads than yesterday.

Yesterday there were fewer cars on the road than today.

Yesterday there weren’t as many / so many cars on the roads as today.

24. Comparatives and superlatives

None of the boys is as tall as Richard.         
Richard is the tallest of the boys.

and

No other church in town is as old as this one.

It is the oldest church in town.

25. So + adjective and such (a/an) + adjective + noun

The weather was so lovely that we decided to go for a walk.

It was such lovely weather that we decided to go for a walk.

26. Superlative and such (a / an) + adjective + noun

It is the best cake I've ever eaten.

I've never eaten such a good cake.

27. From verb to noun

He left the theatre just before the second act ended.

He left the theatre just before the end of the second act.   

28. When and until

I left when Derek's father arrived.

I didn’t leave until Derek's father arrived. / I stayed until Derek's father arrived

29. During + noun and while + subject and verb

They made a lot of new friends during their holidays in Greece.

They made a lot of new friends while they were on holiday in Greece.

30. Suggested (doing) and Why don’t …  / How about + -ing

Jill suggested going to the Indian restaurant.

Jill said: “Why don’t we go to the Indian restaurant?”

and

Tony said: “How about inviting the twins?”

Tony suggested inviting the twins.

31. Ought (to do) and should (do)

You should eat fewer sweets.

You ought to eat fewer sweets.

32. Cost and price  

How much does that blouse cost?

What is the price of that blouse?

33. Shall I … and Would you like me to …?

Shall I read?

Would you like me to read?

34. Obligation 

Wearing a tie is compulsory.

You have to / must wear a tie.

It is essential to wear a tie.

35. Prohibition

It is forbidden to smoke here.

You mustn’t smoke here.

You can't park here.

You are not allowed to park here.

36. Absence of obligation

You are not obliged to wear a tie on Fridays.

You don't have to wear a tie on Fridays.

You don't need to wear a tie on Fridays.

You needn't wear a tie on Fridays.

37. Possibility

It is possible to book in advance.      
You can book in advance.

38. Want and would like

Would you like to go to the cinema?

Do you want to go to the cinema?

39. Reported speech: present to past

“I like eating pasta with vegetables, ” said Stella.

Stella said that she liked eating pasta with vegetables.

40. Reported speech: past to present

She asked the shop-assistant how much the blue jumper cost. 

She asked the shop-assistant: “How much does the blue jumper cost?

41. Reported speech: present perfect to past perfect

“Have you ever eaten sushi?” Ben asked Toby.

Ben asked Toby if he had ever eaten sushi.

42. Reported speech: past perfect to present perfect

Jerry told me he had visited Rome twice.

“I have visited Rome twice,” said Jerry.

43. Reported speech: imperative to infinitive

“Don't touch that wire, Mark,” said Carla.    
Carla told Mark not to touch the wire.

44. Reported questions      
“Where is the station?”          
Could you tell me where the station is?

Do you know where the station is?

45. From active to passive  

They make those cars in Japan.

Those cars are made in Japan.

46. So and because

She was late so she missed the first act.     
She missed the first act because she was late.

47. In order to and because

She went on a diet in order to lose weight.

She went on a diet because she wanted to lose weight.     

48. So + adjective + that and too + adjective

It was so cold that we didn’t go out.

It was too cold to go out.

49. If and unless  + affirmative verb

If he doesn’t apologize, I won't invite him to the party.

I won’t invite him to the party unless he apologizes.

50. Causative 'have to'

The mechanic serviced my car before I went on holiday.  
I had my car serviced before I went on holiday.

Part 2

Things to remember:         

· In this part of the exam you are asked to write a short message of between 35 and 45 words.The mesage could be an email, a note, a postcard, etc.

· You are clearly told who you are writing to so remember to address your short message to this person.

· Remember there will always be 3 content points to cover.

· The focus in this task is on communication. Look carefully at the verbs used in the rubric as they will give you important clues as to the structures you need to use: thank, apologise, invite, explain, suggest, remind, ask, offer, tell, etc.

· Include a closing expression

· Remember to sign the message.

· Try not to use words and phrases from the rubric unless it is absolutely necessary.

· This task carries 5 marks.

Useful language

Openings

Dear ...

Hello, (+ name)

Hi

Apologising

I'm really sorry but ...

I'm awfully sorry but ...

I'm terribly sorry but ..-

I'm so sorry but ..

I'm sorry but I have to ...

I'm so sorry for ...

I'm so sorry that ...

Please forgive me for ...

Thanking

Thank you for ...

Thank you ever so much for ...

Thanks for ...

It was very kind / sweet of you to ...

Advice and suggestions

I think you should ...

You ought to ...

Why don't you ...?

Why don't we ...?

What about + -ing?

How about + -ing?

Let's ....

Shall we ...?

Making requests

Can you ...?

Can I ... ?

Could I ... ?    
Could you ...?

Would you mind + ing?

Do you mind if ...?

Would it be possible to ...?

Inviting

Would you like to ...?

Do you fancy + -ing?

How about + -ing?

What about + -ing?

Do you want to .... with me?

I hope you can ....

Reminding

Don't forget to ...

Remember to ...

Closing

Love

Lots of love

See you soon

Yours

Best wishes

All the best

Practice        

Your English-speaking friend Jason helped you prepare for a difficult English grammar test.
Write an e-mail to Jason. In your e-mail, you should
- thank Jason
- tell him how you did in the test
- offer to help him with his maths homework.
Write 35-45 words.

 Imagine you have just spent the day in Paris. Write a postcard to an English friend. In your postcard you should:
- describe something you saw in Paris
- say what you thought of it
- explain your plans for tomorrow.
Write 35-45 words.

Your Australian friend, Robert, is coming to stay with your family for three days. Write an email to Robert. In your email, you should:
- suggest something to do during his stay
- ask him if there is any food he doesn't like
- offer to pick him up at the airport.
Write 35-45 words.

An English friend of yours, Joanna, gave a party last Saturday. Write an email. In your email, you should:
- thank Joanna
- tell her what you liked best about the party
- invite her to go to the cinema with you sometime next week.
Write 35-45 words.

Your American friend Patricia is visiting your home town for the first time. Write an email to Patricia. In your email, you should:
- apologise because you won't be able to put her up and explain why
- suggest a hotel where she can stay
- explain why you think the hotel will suit her.
Write 35-45 words.

You spent the afternoon at your English friend's house. On getting home, you realise you no longer have your scarf. Write an email to your friend. In your email, you should:
- explain what you have lost (give details about colour and/or pattern)
- say where you think you've left the scarf
- ask your friend to let you know if she finds it.
Write 35-45 words.

Some time ago you lent your Spanish dictionary to an English friend of yours, Tim. Write an email to Tim. In your email, you should:
- remind Tim he's still got your dictionary
- tell him you need it and explain why
- ask him when you can go and collect it.
Write 35-45 words.

An English-speaking classmate of yours has missed school today because she had an appointment at the dentist's. Write an email to your friend. In your email, you should:
- ask your friend how she's feeling         
- explain what you did in class today      
- give her details of the Spanish homework she's supposed to do for tomorrow.  
Write 35-45 words.    

Your friend Lily has invited you to go shopping with her, Write an email to Lily. In your email, you should:
- tell Lily what you want to buy
- suggest going for a sandwich before your shopping expedition    
- tell her when and where you could meet.        
Write 35-45 words.

An English-speaking friend of yours, Dylan, has invited you to a dinner party at a local restaurant. Write an email to Dylan. In your email, you should:   
- accept the invitation        
- warn Dylan that the restaurant is not very good and explain why   
- recommend another restaurant.            
Write 35-45 words.    

Part 3

Things to remember:         

· In this part of the exam – Questions 7 and 8 – you are given a choice between writing a story or an informal letter. Both tasks require you to write about 100 words. 

· Divide your piece of writing into parapraphs.

· Try to use relevant specific vocabulary. If your use of language is basically correct but unambitious, you will not be given top marks.

· Rememeber to use a range of structures. Once again, if you are unambitious in your writing, you will  not be awarded top marks.

· Try to use linking words.

· Check how many words you have written. If you write too little, say less than 80 words, you will be penalised. If you write too much, you won't be given any extra marks and run the risk of making more mistakes. Contractions count as two words, apart from can't which counts as one because it is the contraction of cannot.

· An incorrect use of puctuation will be penalised.

· Check you haven't made any avoidable spelling mistakes.

· Remember that grammar is important but is only one of the criteria you will be assessed on. A well-organised relevant piece of writing in which you have used a range of structures, linkers and interesting vocabulary could be given top marks even though it is not flawless in terms of grammar.

· Remember that 15 out of the 25 marks assigned for the writing paper will be awarded for part 3.

Story-writing

You will be given either the title or the first sentence of the story. Remember that if you are given a sentence, you cannot change it.

If possible, use some descriptive elements at the beginning to create a setting.

Try to use some adjectives and adverbs to make your piece of writing more interesting.

Try to use different tenses.

If possible, incorporate some dialogue.

You will find it easier to come up with ideas if you ask yourself the who?, what?, where?, when? and why?  Questions

In story writing it is important to start out with a clear idea of the different parts of the story: the beginning, middle and end.

Remember to use sequencers and time expressions 

Useful language

Saying when things happened

It all began …

One day / one evening...

It was one of those days when ...

A little later ...

Shortly afterwards ...

Meanwhile ...

Some time later …

A few days later...

When he / she / I ….

Then ...          

Finally ...

In the end ...

Eventually ….

Before he / she ….

Adding interest

Suddenly

All of a sudden

Just at that moment

Without any warning

Quite unexpectedly

Surprisingly,

To my amazement,

Practice

1.    Write a story beginning with the following sentence:
I was really surprised when Sally phoned me.
Write your story in about 100 words.

2.    Write a story beginning with the following sentence:
When I got to the station, the train had just left.
Write your story in about 100 words.

3.    Write a story beginning with the following sentence:
One day last week I was walking across the park.
Write your story in about 100 words.

4.    Write a story with the following title:
A very unusual neighbour.
Write your story in about 100 words.

5.    Write a story with the following title:
The school trip.
Write your story in about 100 words.

6.    Write a story with the following title:
The haunted building.
Write your story in about 100 words.

7.    Write a story beginning with the following sentence:
She was so excited she couldn't sleep.
Write your story in about 100 words.

8.    Write a story with the following title:
A very embarrassing experience
 Write your story in about 100 words.

9.    Write a story beginning with the following sentence:          
I had never quarrelled with Dave before.
 Write your story in about 100 words.          

10.  Write a story beginning with the following sentence:
It was my first day in London.
Write your story in about 100 words.

Letter-writing

Useful language

Opening

Dear + name

Hello, (+ name)

Hi + name

Thanks for your letter.

How are you?

I hope you're well.

It was great to hear from you.

Lovely to hear from you!

Sorry I've taken so long to write back, but ...

Just a few lines to say / tell you  ...

Asking for and giving information

Could you tell me …?

I need to know …

Did you know that  …

You asked me for some advice on …

You asked me about ...

Reacting to information

Glad to hear about …

I'm so glad to hear that ...

I'm sorry to hear about ...

Giving your opinion

I think you should …

You could …

Why don't you / we …?

If I were you, I would …

I suggest you + infinitive without to

Sequencing

To begin with …

Firstly,

Secondly,

First, ..

Then, …

Next ...

Finally,...

Closing off

Well, time to go.

Well, that's all for now.

Give my love to everyone.

Say 'hello' to your parents / family / etc. from me

Take care and write soon!

Hope to hear from you soon!

Will write again soon!

Write soon!

See you soon!

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes,

All the best,

Love,

Lots of love,

Bye for now,

Reghards,

Yours,

Things to remember:

· You do not need to include any addresses or dates.

· Read the instructions carefully. You will always be given part of a letter from a friend, which provides the topic you will have to write about.

· If the name of your friend or penfriend is not given, think of an English name.

· When you start your letter, remember that the first sentence must begin with a capital letter.

· Greetings and endings count in the word limit. A signature counts as one word.

· You are expected to open and close a letter. If you fail to do so, you won't be awarded full marks.

· If you are writing about the plot of a film or book, remember to use the present simple.

· Do not waste time on irrelevant information. Go straight to the point. Remember you have  only about 100 words.

Practice

1.    This is part of an email you receive from your friend Don.
I want to organise a party for my sister's 20th birrthday. I know you are really good at this sort of thing and I need some advice. Would a surprise party be a good idea? What kind of food would be suitable?
Now write an email, answering your friend's questions. Write your email in about 100 words.

2.    This is part of a letter you receive from your friend Sharon.
Last week I had my first judo class and I really enjoyed it. What is your favourite sport. Tell me all about it. Why do you like it?
Now write a letter, telling Sharon about your favourite sport.Write your letter in about 100 words.

3.    This is part of a letter you receive from your friend Damian.
Help! It's my parents' 25th wedding anniversary next month and I can't think of a present to get them. You know my mum and dad quite well. What do you think I should get them?
Now write a letter, answering Damian's question. Write your letter in about 100 words.

4.    This is part of a letter you receive from your friend Larry.
For our next holiday my wife and I would like to spend some time in the north of Italy. Which places should we definitely visit? Which food would you recommend we taste?
Now write a letter, answering Larry's questions. Write your letter in about 100 words.

5.    This is part of a letter  you get from your friend Richard.
Last week I went to see Kate Perry in concert. She was fab! Have you ever been to any concerts? What sort of music do you like? 
Now write a letter, answering Richard's questions. Write your letter in about 100 words.

6.    This is part of a letter from your friend Holly. 
At long last we're breaking up for the summer. Mind you, I actually enjoy going to school. The point is this year we had to work really hard and I'm dead tired. What about you? Do you enjoy going to school? What's your school like?           
Now write a letter, answering Holly's questions. Write your letter in about 100 words.

7.    This is part of a letter you receive from an English penfriend.
I know you like reading. Have you read any good books recently? What's the last book you've read? Would you recommend it?
Now write a letter, answering your friend's questions. Write your letter in about 100 words.

8.    This is part of a letter you receive from an English penfriend.       
I've put on a couple of kilos and I really need to knock them off. What do you do to keep fit?     
Now write a letter, answering your friend's questions. Write your letter in about 100 words.

People and relationships

Family

aunt = zia; brother = fratello; brother-in-law = cognato; cousin = cugino; dad(dy) = papà; daughter = figlia; daughter-in-law = nuora; father = padre; father-in-law = suocero; grandchild = nipote (di nonni); grand(d)ad = nonno; granddaughter = nipote femmina di nonni; grandfather = nonno; grandma = nonna; grandmother = nonna; grandpa = nonno; grandparents = nonni; grandson = nipote maschio di nonni; husband = marito; mother = madre; mother-in-law = suocera; mum(my) = mamma; nephew = nipote maschio di zii; niece = nipote femmina di zii; parents = genitori; sister = sorella; sister-in-law = cognata; son = figlio; son-in-law = genero; uncle = zio; wife = moglie

Additional vocabulary

adolescence = adolescenza; adult / grown-up = adulto, grande; baby = neonato; birth = nascita; boss = capo; boy = bambino, ragazzo; boyfriend = ragazzo; child / children = bambini; childhood = infanzia; classmate = compagno di classe; colleague = collega; death = morte; elderly = anziano; employee = dipendente; employer = datore di lavoro; friend = amico; girl = bambina, ragazza; girlfriend = ragazza; group = gruppo; guest = ospite; guy = tipo, tizio; love = amore; middle-aged = di mezz'età; neighbour = vicino di casa; old = vecchio; old age = vecchiaia; pen-friend = corrispondente, amico di penna; stranger = sconosciuto, persona non del posto; surname = cognome; teenager = adolescente; young = giovane

Verbs

be born = nascere; bring up = allevare; date = uscire con qualcuno; fall in love = innamorarsi; fall out (with) = litigare, smettere di parlarsi; get a divorce / get divorced = divorziare; get engaged = fidanzarsi; get married = sposarsi; get on (with) = andare d'accordo; go out (with) = uscire con qualcuno; grow up = crescere; have a baby = avere un bambino; keep in touch = mantenersi in contatto; let (someone) down = deludere; look after = badare a / prendersi cura di; lose touch = perdere i contatti; love = amare; make friends = fare amicizia;  split up / break up = separarsi

Appearance

attractive = attraente; beautiful = bello; fat = grasso; good-looking = di bell'aspetto; handsome = bello (per uomini); medium-height = di altezza media; overweight = sovrappeso; pale = pallido; petite = minuta; plain =  insignificante, bruttino; pretty = carino; scruffy = trasandato; short = basso; skinny = molto magro, pelle e ossa; slim = snello; smart = elegante; tall = alto; tanned = abbronzato; thin = magro; ugly = brutto; well-built= ben piantato, con un bel fisico, muscoloso; well-dressed = ben vestito

Hair

long = lunghi; short = corti; curly = ricci; straight = dritti, lisci; wavy = mossi; bald = pelato; dark  hair = capelli scuri; fair hair = capelli biondi; fringe = frangetta; pony-tail = coda di cavallo

Other distinguishing features

beard = barba; moustache = baffi

Parts of the body

ankle = caviglia; arm = braccio; back = schiena; blood = sangue; bone = osso; brain = cervello; calf = polpaccio; cheek = guancia; chest = torace; chin = mento; ear = orecchio; elbow = gomito; eye = occhio; eyebrow = sopracciglio; face = viso, volto; finger = dito della mano; foot / feet = piede / piedi; forearm = avambraccio;  forehead = fronte; gum = gengiva; hair = capelli; hand = mano; head = testa; heart = cuore; heel = calcagno; knee = ginocchio; leg = gamba; lip = labbro; lung = polmone; mouth = bocca; nail = unghia; neck = collo; nose = naso; palm = palmo; shin = stinco; shoulder = spalla; skin = pelle; stomach = stomaco; thigh = coscia;  thumb = pollice; toe = dito del piede; tongue = lingua; tooth / teeth = dente / denti; waist = vita; wrist = polso; 

Personality adjectives, feelings, opinions and experiences (adjectives)

able = capace; (to be) afraid = aver paura; alone = solo; amazed = sbalordito; amazing = stupefacente, sbalorditivo; amused = divertito; amusing = divertente; angry = adirato, arrabbiato; annoyed = scocciato, infastidito; annoying = fastidioso; anxious = ansioso; (to be) ashamed = vergognarsi; awful = terribile; bored = annoiato; boring = noioso; bossy = prepotente; brave = coraggioso; brilliant = brillante, fantastico; busy = indaffarato; calm = tranquillo; careful = attento; certain = certo; challenging = impegnativo; cheerful = allegro; clever =  intelligente, ingegnoso; confident = sicuro di sé, fiducioso; cowardly = vigliacco; crazy = pazzo; cruel = crudele; curious = curioso; delighted = molto felice, lieto; depressed = depresso; depressing = deprimente; different = diverso; difficult = difficile; disappointed = deluso; disappointing = deludente; (to be) dizzy = avere il capogiro; easy = facile; embarrassed = imbarazzato; embarrassing = imbarazzante; excellent = eccellente, ottimo; excited = eccitato, emozionato; exciting = eccitante, emozionante; famous = famoso; fantastic = fantastico; fast = veloce; favourite = preferito; (to be ) fond of = essere appassionato di;  friendly = amichevole; frightened = spaventato; frightening = spaventoso; funny = buffo;  generous = generoso; gentle = cortese, garbato, delicato; glad = felice; good = buono; great = grande, fantastico; guilty = colpevole; happy = felice; hard = duro, difficile; healthy = sano; heavy = pesante; important = importante; intelligent = intelligente; interested = interessato; interesting = interessante; jealous = geloso, invidioso; (to be) keen (on) =  essere appassionato di; kind = gentile; lazy = pigro; lovely = bello, delizioso; lucky = fortunato; mad = matto, pazzo, patito di; merry = felice, allegro; miserable = triste; moody = lunatico; negative = negativo; nervous = nervoso; nice = simpatico; noisy = rumoroso; normal = normale; old-fashioned = antiquato, all'antica; ordinary = normale; original = originale; patient = paziente;  personal = personale; pleasant = piacevole; polite = educato;  poor = povero; positive = positivo; punctual = puntuale; quick = veloce; quiet = tranquillo, silenzioso; ready = pronto; real = vero; realistic = realistico; reasonable = ragionevole; relaxed = rilassato; relaxing = rilassante; reliable = affidabile; responsible = responsabile; rich = ricco; (to be) right = aver ragione; rude = maleducato; sad = triste; satisfied = soddisfatto; selfish = egoista; serious = serio; skilled = abile, qualificato; slow = lento; smart = intelligente; soft = morbido, sorry = spiacente; smart = intelligente; sociable = socievole; special = speciale; strange = strano; strong = forte; stupid = stupido; sure = sicuro; surprised = sorpreso; surprising = sorprendente; sweet = dolce; terrible = terribile; tired = stanco; tidy = ordinato; tiring = stancante; true = vero; typical = tipico; unable = incapace; unhappy = infelice; untidy = disordinato; unusual = inusuale; (to be) well = stare bene; wonderful = meraviglioso; (to be) wrong = avere torto

Speaking

How old are you?

Where and when were you born?

Where is your family from originally?

Where did you grow up?

Who looked after you when you were a child? / Who brought you up?

Tell us something about your family.

Have you got any brothers or sisters? If so, do you get on with them? Why? / Why not?

Are friends more important than family? Why? / Why not?

What sort of things do you enjoy doing with your family? And with your friends?

What is your definition of a true friend?

Use at least three adjectives to describe your best friend.

Have you ever fallen out with a friend? Why?

Why can friendships end?

Do you know your neighbours? Do you get on with them?

Can you describe yourself? What sort of person are you?

Describe a member of your family.

Do you look like your mother or father?

Do you take after your mother or father?

What makes you happy?

What makes you sad?

What makes you angry?

What do you do when you are sad?

Tell us about a frightening experience you've had.

Tell us about an embarrassing experience you've had.

Clothes and shopping

Clothes and accessories

blouse = camicetta; boots = stivali; bra = reggiseno; button = bottone; cardigan = golf; clothes = vestiti, abiti; coat = cappotto; collar = colletto; costume = costume; dress = vestito, abito da donna; dressing-gown = vestaglia; hat = cappello; high-heeled shoes = scarpe con il tacco alto; hood = cappuccio; jacket = giacca; jeans = jeans; jumper = maglione; nightdress = camicia da notte; pants = mutande (UK), pantaloni (US); pocket = tasca; pullover = pullover; pyjamas = pigiama; raincoat = impermeabile; sandals = sandali; shirt = camicia; shoes = scarpe; shorts = pantaloncini; skirt = gonna; sleeve = manica; slippers = pantofole; socks = calze; stockings = calze da donna; suit = completo da uomo; sweater = maglione; sweatshirt = felpa; swimming costume = costume da bagno; swimming trunks = costume da bagno da uomo; tie = cravatta; tights = collant; tracksuit = tuta; trainers = scarpe da ginnastica; trousers = pantaloni; T-shirt = T shirt; underpants =  mutande; underwear = biancheria intima; uniform = divisa; vest = canottiera

Accessories

backpack = zaino; bag = borsa; belt = cintura;  bracelet = bracialetto;  cap = berretto con visiera; earring = orecchino; glasses = occhiali; gloves = guanti; handbag = borsetta; handkerchief = fazzoletto;  jewellery = gioielleria; necklace = collana; purse = borsellino (UK), borsetta (US);  scarf = sciarpa;  umbrella = ombrello; wallet = portafogli; watch = orologio

Additional vocabulary

fashion = moda; lipstick = rossetto; make-up = trucco; perfume = profumo;  size = taglia

Verbs

get dressed / get undressed = vestirsi / svestirsi; fasten = allacciare; fit = essere della taglia / misura giusta; fold = piegare; go with = abbinarsi, stare bene; match =  intonarsi con, stare bene con; put on = indossare; suit = stare bene; take off = togliersi;  try on = provare; wear = indossare; (to) wear out = logorarsi, consumarsi;

Adjectives

casual = casual, sportivo; cotton = di cotone; denim = di tela jeans; elegant = elegante;  fashionable = alla moda; formal = formale; knit = lavorato a maglia; leather = pelle, di pelle; old-fashioned = antiquato; plastic = plastica; silk = seta; sleeveless = senza maniche;  wool = lana; woollen = di lana

Colours

black; blue; brown; gold; green; grey; orange; pink; purple; red; silver; yellow; white

Colours can be modified with the following adjectives: bright = brillante, vivace, intenso; dark = scuro; light = chiaro

Shopping

advertisement = pubblicità, inserzione pubblicitaria; assistant = commesso; bargain = affare; bill = conto; cash = contanti; change = resto; cheap = a buon mercato, poco costoso; cheque = assegno; client = cliente; closed = chiuso; cost = costo; credit card = carta di credito; customer = cliente; dear = caro, costoso; deposit = acconto, caparra; discount = sconto; expensive = caro, costoso; faulty = difettoso; fitting room = camerino; goods = merce; inexpensive = poco costoso, non costoso; luxury = di lusso, lussuoso; money = soldi; open = aperto; pence = pence; penny = penny; pound = sterlina; price = prezzo; price = prezzo;  reasonable = ragionevole; receipt = ricevuta, scontrino; reduced = scontato; refund = rimborso;  sale = vendita, svendita; sales = saldi; shop = negozio; store = negozio;

Verbs

advertise = fare pubblicità; book = prenotare; buy = comprare; change = cambiare;  charge = far pagare; choose = scegliere; collect = passare a ritirare; complain = reclamare, lamentarsi di; cost = costare; do the shopping = fare la spesa; exchange = cambiare; go shopping = fare shopping; hire = noleggiare; order = ordinare; pay / pay for = pagare;  pay by cheque = pagare con assegno; pay cash = pagare in contanti; pay with a credit card = pagaare con carta di credito; reduce prices = abbassare i prezzi, vendere a prezzo scontato; rent = noleggiare; reserve = riservare, prenotare; return / take back = riportare al negozio; save = risparmiare; sell = vendere;

Speaking

What kind of clothes do you wear when you come to school?

What kind of clothes aren't you allowed to wear at school?

What kind of clothes do you wear when you go out with your friends?

What do you usually wear when you spend the day at home?

What kind of clothes do you wear when you go to the seaside?

Are clothes expensive where you live?

Where do you usually buy your clothes?

Do you ever wear hats or caps?

Is fashion important to you?

Do you read fashion magazines?

Do you spend a lot of money on clothes?

Do you like shopping for clothes?

Tell us about a fashion you do not like.

What kind of clothes are in fashion just now?

Do you ever wear second-hand clothes?

Do you think clothes mirror our personality? If so, what do your clothes say about you?

Do you think school uniforms are a good idea?

What is your favourite colour? Why do you like it?

Writing Part 2

Write an email to Katie, an English-speaking friend of yours, telling her about an item of clothing you have just bought. Say:

-        what you bought

-        why you like it

-        when you are going to wear it.

Write between 35-45 words.

City, town and village

Buildings, shops, services and features

airport = aeroporto; amusement park = luna park; art gallery = galleria d'arte; baker's / bakery = panetteria; bank = banca; barber's = barbiere; beauty parlour = salone di bellezza, estetista; block of flats  (UK) / apartment block (US) = condominio; bookshop = libreria; bridge = ponte; bus station = stazione degli autobus; bus stop = fermata degli autobus; butcher's = macelleria; café = caffè, bar che non vende alcolici; car park = parcheggio; castle = castello; cathedral = cattedrale; chemist's / pharmacy = farmacia; church = chiesa; cinema = cinema; city centre = centro città; clinic = clinica; clothes shop = negozio d'abbigliamento; club = club; college = università, istituto d'istruzione superiore; corner = angolo; (pedestrian) crossing = attraversamento pedonale; crossroads = incrocio; delicatessen = gastronomia; dentist's (surgery) = dentista; department store = grande magazzino; disco = discoteca; doctor's (surgery) = ambulatorio / studio medico; dressmaker's = sartoria per donna; dry cleaner's  = lavanderia a secco; entrance = entrata; exit = uscita; factory = fabbrica; fast food restaurant = fast food; fire station = caserma dei pompieri; fishmonger's =  pescheria; florist's = fiorista; fountain = fontana; garage = garage, autofficina; gardens = giardini, piccolo parco; greengrocer's = fruttivendolo; grocer's = alimentari; guest-house = pensione; gym = palestra; hairdresser's = parrucchiere; hospital = ospedale; hotel = hotel, albergo; house = casa; ironmonger's (UK) / hardware store (US) = ferramenta; jeweller's = gioielleria; kiosk = chiosco, edicola; library = biblioteca; launderette = lavanderia automatica; lift = ascensore; market = mercato; market square = piazza del mercato; mosque = moschea; motorway = autostrada; museum = museo; neighbourhood = quartiere; newsagent's / newsstand = edicola; office block = palazzo di uffici; one-way street = senso unico; on the outskirts = in periferia; open-air market = mercato; palace = palazzo; park = parco; pavement = marciapiede; pedestrian area = zona pedonale; petrol station = distributore, stazione di servizio; pet shop = negozio d'animali; playground = campo giochi; police station = posto di polizia; post office = ufficio postale; prison = prigione; pub = pub; record shop = negozio di dischi; restaurant = ristorante; road = strada; roundabout = rondò; route= percorso; school = scuola; shoe shop = negozio che vende scarpe; shop = negozio; shopping centre / precinct (UK) / shopping mall (US)  = centro commerciale; signpost = cartello stradale; skyscraper = grattacielo; sports centre = centro sportivo; sports shop = negozio che vende articoli sportivi; square = piazza; stadium = stadio; (railway) station = stazione ferroviaria; stationery shop = cartoleria; suburbs = sobborghi; subway = sottopasso*; supermarket = supermarket; swimming pool = piscina; tailor's = sartoria per uomo; taxi rank = posteggio dei taxi; theatre = teatro; tobacconist's = tabaccheria; tourist information centre = ufficio informazioni turistiche; tower = torre; town hall = municipio; traffic lights = semaforo; turning = svolta;  underground /tube = metropolitana; university = università; village = paese; zoo = zoo

Additional vocabulary

chain = catena; early closing day = giorno in cui i negozi chiudono prima; opening hours / times = orario d'apertura

Speaking

What are the advantages of living in a city?

What are the disadvantages of living in a city?

What's your favourite town or city? Why?

What are the advantages of small towns and villages?

What are the main problems of your hometown?

Writing Part 1

For  each question complete the second sentence so that it has the same meaning as the first sentence. Use no more than three words.

We spent an hour finding somewhere to park.
It ______________________ hour to find somewhere to park.

I got lost in the park because it was so big.  
The park was so big ______________________ got lost in it.

The new swimming pool has been open for two months.
The new swimming pool ______________________ two months ago.

The shopping centre had two restaurants.   
There ______________________ two restaurants in the shopping centre.

It was 6 p.m. when we left the shopping centre.
We didn't leave the shopping centre ______________________ 6 p.m.

Houses and homes

Types of house

block of flats = condominio; bungalow = bungalow; castle = castello; cottage = cottage; detached house = casa indipendente, villetta; farmhouse = casa colonica, fattoria, casale; flat (UK) / apartment (US) = appartamento; palace = palazzo, reggia;  semi-detached house = casa bifamiliare; skyscraper = grattacielo; studio flat = monolocale; terraced house = casa / villetta a schiera; villa = villa

Garden

bush = cespuglio; back garden = giardino sul retro; (clothes)line = corda per stendere il bucato, drive = vialetto d'accesso percorribile in auto; flower-bed = aiuola; front garden = giardino sul davanti della casa; deck chair = sedia a sdraio; fence = recinzione, palizzata; hedge = siepe; garden (UK) / yard (US) = giardino; garden chair = sedia da giardino; garden shed = capanno degli attrezzi; garden table = tavolo da giardino; lawn = prato all'inglese; path = vialetto; rockery = giardino roccioso; shed = capanno  degli attrezzi; sunshade / garden parasol = ombrellone

Parts of the house

airing cupboard = armadio riscaldato in cui si ripone la biancheria stirata; balcony = balcone; basement = seminterrato / taverna; ceiling = soffitto; cellar = cantina; chimney = comignolo; conservatory = giardino d'inverno, veranda;  corridor  = corridoio; courtyard = cortile; door = porta; downstairs = al piano inferiore; entrance = entrata; floor = pavimento, piano; French window = porta finestra; garage = garage; ground floor (UK) / first floor (US) = pian terreno; hall = ingresso; laundry = lavanderia; lavatory / cloakroom = toilette; lift = ascensore; loft / attic = solaio, soffitta; pantry / larder = dispensa; penthouse = attico; porch =  portico; roof = tetto; staircase / stairs = scale; steps = gradini; upstairs = al piano di sopra; verandah = veranda; window = finestra; windowsill = davanzale

Bathroom and toiletries

aftershave lotion = lozione dopobarba; bathtub / bath = vasca da bagno; bath mat = tappetino da bagno; bath salts = sali da bagno; bathroom cabinet = armadietto da bagno; bathroom scales = bilancia; bidet = bidet; comb = pettine; eye liner = eye liner; eye shadow = ombretto; hairbrush / brush = spazzola; hairdryer = asciugacapelli, phon; lipstick = rossetto; make-up = trucco; nail polish = smalto per unghie; mascara = mascara; razor = rasoio; razor blades = lamette da barba; shampoo and conditioner = shampoo e balsamo; shaving foam = schiuma da barba; shower = doccia; soap = sapone; soap dish = porta sapone; sponge = spugna;  tap (UK) / faucet (US) = rubinetto; toilet / lavatory / loo (colloquial) = gabinetto; toilet brush = scopino del water; toilet paper = carta igienica; toilet roll = rotolo di carta igienica; toilet roll holder = porta rotolo; toilet seat = asse del gabinetto; toothbrush = spazzolino da denti; toothpaste = dentifricio; towel = asciugamani; towel rail = porta asciugamani; washbasin / basin = lavabo; to flush the toilet = tirare l'acqua

Kitchen and kitchen utensils

baking tin = teglia; blender = frullatore; bottle opener = apri bottiglie; bowl = ciotola; breadbin = portapane; cooker = fornelli, cucina; corkscrew = cavatappi; counter = piano di lavoro; cup = tazza; cutlery = posate; cutting board = tagliere;  dish / plate = piatto; dishwasher = lavastoviglie; egg-cup = portauovo; fork = forchetta; freezer = freezer, congelatore; fridge / refrigerator = frigorifero; frying pan = padella; funnel = imbuto; glass = bicchiere; jar = vasetto di vetro; jug = caraffa; kettle = bollitore; kitchen scales = bilancia da cucina; knife = coltello;  ladle = mestolo; microwave = forno a microonde; mixer = frullatore, mixer, robot da cucina; mug = tazza alta e stretta, boccale; oven = forno; pan = padella, tegame, pentola; pot = pentola; potato peeler = pelapatate; pressure cooker = pentola a pressione; rolling pin = mattarello; salad bowl = insalatiera; saucer = piattino; sink = lavandino; spatula = spatola; spoon = cucchiaio; strainer = colino, colapasta; tea towel = strofinaccio da cucina; tin opener = apriscatole; toaster = tostapane

Bedroom

alarm clock = sveglia; bed = letto; bedside rug = scendiletto; bedspread = copriletto; blanket = coperta; bunk bed = letto a castello; chest of drawers = comò, cassettiera; double bed = letto matrimoniale;  dressing table = tavolino da toeletta; eiderdown / duvet = piumino, trapunta; mattress = materasso; pillow = cuscino, guanciale; pillow case = federa; sheets = lenzuola;  twin beds = letti gemelli

Dining room and living room

armchair = poltrona; coffee table = tavolino basso; couch / sofa / settee = divano; cushion = cuscini; fireplace = caminetto; living room / lounge / sitting room = soggiorno, salotto;  napkins = tovaglioli; tablecloth = tovaglia

Household objects, appliances, furniture, etc.

air-conditioning = aria condizionata; ashtray = posacenere; bin = bidone; blinds = venziane; bucket = secchio; bulb = lampadina; bookshelf = scaffale per libri, ripiano di libreria; bookcase = libreria; candle = candela; carpet = tappeto; central heating = riscaldamento centralizzato; clock = orologio; computer = computer; cupboard = credenza / armadio; curtains = tende; cushions = cuscini (non guanciali); desk = scrivania; (door)bell = campanello; drawer = cassetto; dustbin = pattumiera; DVD-player = lettore DVD; fan = ventilatore; fitted carpet = moquette; frame = cornice; furniture = mobili; hi-fi = stereo; hook = gancio; iron = ferro da stiro; ladder = scala a pioli; lamp = lampada; laptop = computer portatile; lift = ascensore; light = luce; lock = serratura; (to) lock = chiudere a chiave; mirror = specchio; nail = chiodo; picture = quadro; plug = spina; (to) plug in = infilare la spina; poster = poster; potted plants = piante in vaso; radio = radio; scissors = forbici; shutters = persiane; skylight = lucernario; socket = presa; switch = interruttore; table = tavolo; tiles = piastrelle; telephone = telefono; television / television set / telly = televisore; tool = attrezzo; vase = vaso; washing machine = lavatrice; wastepaper basket = cestino della carta straccia

Additional vocabulary

accommodation = sistemazione, alloggio; address = indirizzo; antique = oggetto antico; brick = mattone;  burglar alarm = antifurto; digital (adj.) = digitale; electric(al) = elettrico; electricity bill = bolletta della luce; estate agency = agenzia immobiliare; fire-alarm = allarme antincendio; flatmate = coinquilino; furnished = ammobiliato; gas bill = bolletta del gas; housewife = casalinga; housework =  lavori di casa; faccende domestiche; landlady = affitacamere, proprietaria, padrona di casa; landlord = affittacamere, proprietario, padrone di casa; (to) move = traslocare; neighbour = vicino; owner = proprietario; pipe = tubo, tubatura; property = proprietà; rent = affitto;  (to) rent = affittare, prendere in affitto; (to) repair = riparare, aggiustare; room = stanza; room-mate = compagno di stanza; rubbish = rifiuti, spazzatura, pattume; (to) share = condividere; stone = pietra, di pietra; surround = circondare; thatched roof = tetto di paglia; view = vista; wooden = di legno

Speaking activities

What does your house look like from the outisde?

Have you ever moved? If so, how many times?

Is your house conveniently located?

Do you have a room of your own or do you share with anyone?

Can you describe your room?

What do you most like about your home? Is there anything you don't particularly like about it?

Tells us about your dream home.

List the five most important things you would look for when buying a house.

Who do you live with?

Do you like spending time at home?

Transport, Travel and Tourism

Vocabulary

accommodation = alloggio, sistemazione; admission fee = costo del biglietto d'ingresso; (aero)plane = aereo; (bi)cycle/bike = bicicletta; abroad = all'estero; airline = compagnia aerea; airport = aeroporto; ambulance = ambulanza; announcement = annuncio; arrival = arrivo; at sea = in alto mare; backpack = zaino; bag = borsa; baggage = bagagli; bed and breakfast = bed and breakfast; boarding pass = carta d'imbarco; boat = barca; border = confine; booking = prenotazione; brake = freno; (to) brake = frenare; bridge = ponte; brochure = brochure, opuscolo; bus = autobus; bus station = stazione degli autobus; bus stop = fermata dell'autobus; by air = in aereo; by land = via terra; by rail = per ferrovia; by road = via terra; by sea = via mare; cab = taxi; cabin = cabina; campsite = campeggio; canal = canale; capital city = capitale; car = automobile; car alarm = antifurto; car park = parcheggio; case = valigia; charter = charter; check-in = check-in; coach = pullman; confirm = confermare; consul = console; consulate = consolato; crossing = traversata; crossroads = incrocio; cruise = crociera; currency = valuta; customs = dogana; customs officer = doganiere; cycle = andare in bici; cyclist = ciclista; deck (of ship) = ponte della nave; delay = ritardo; departure = partenza; destination = destinazione; direction = direzione; documents = documenti; dollar = dollaro; double room = camera doppia; driver = automobilista, conducente; driving licence = patente; duty-free = duty-free; embassy = ambasciata; engine = motore; euro = euro; exchange rate = tasso di cambio; excursion = escursione; expedition = spedizione (es. spedizione scientifica); facilities = strutture; far = lontano; fare = prezzo del biglietto; ferry = traghetto; flight = volo; foreign (adj.) = estero, straniero; foreigner (n.) = straniero; fuel = carburante; garage = garage, officina; gate = gate, uscita (aeroporto); guest = ospite; guesthouse = pensione; guide = guida; guidebook = guida turistica; half-board / full board = mezza pensione / pensione completa; handlebars = manubrio; harbour = porto; helicopter = elicottero; holiday (UK) / vacation (US) = vacanza; hotel = hotel, albergo; hovercraft = hovercraft (veicolo a cuscino d'aria); hydrofoil = aliscafo; immigration = immigrazione; inn = taverna; interpreter = interprete; jet = jet; journey = viaggio;lorry = camion; lost property = oggetti smarriti; luggage = bagagli; map = mappa; mile = miglio;  mirror = specchietto; motorbike/ motorcycle = moto; motorway = autostrada; nationality = nazionalità; oil = olio; on board = a bordo; on business = per affari; on foot = a piedi; on holiday = in vacanza; on vacation (US) = in vacanza; on foot = a piedi; on time = all'ora giusta, puntuale; overtake = sorpassare; overnight = per una notte; package holiday = viaggio organizzato comprensivo di biglietto e soggiorno; parking lot (US) = parcheggio, posteggio; parking space =  posto macchina; passenger = passeggero; passport = passaporto; path = sentiero; petrol = benzina; petrol station = distributore; petrol pump = pompa di benzina; pilot = pilota; platform = binario; railway = ferrovia; railroad = strada ferrata; reception  = reception; repair = riparazione; reservation = prenotazione; return = andata e ritorno; ride = giro (es. in macchina); road = strada; road sign = cartello stradale; roundabout = rondò; route = tragitto, percorso; safari = safari; scooter = scooter; seat = posto a sedere; service = servizio; ship = nave; sightseeing =  giro turistico, visita  monumenti e luoghi d'interesse; signpost = cartello stradale; single room = camera singola; speed = velocità; stop = fermata; straight on = sempre dritto; street = strada; subway = sottopasso (UK), metrò (US); suitcase = valigia; taxi = taxi; taxi rank = posteggio per taxi; tent = tenda; terminal = terminal; ticket = biglietto; tour = tour, giro turistico; (to) tour = fare un giro turistico; tourist = turista; tourist information centre = ufficio informazioni turistiche; traffic  = traffico; traffic jam = ingorgo; traffic lights = semaforo; train = treno; tram = tram; translation = traduzione; traveller’s cheque = traveller's cheque; trip = viaggio, gita; tunnel = galleria; tyre (UK) / tire (US) = pneumatico; underground = metropolitana; unleaded = senza piombo; vehicle = veicolo; visa = visto; visit = visita; visitor = visitatore; voyage = viaggio via mare; waiting room = sala d'aspetto; wheel = ruota; window = finestrino; windscreen = parabrezza; youth hostel = ostello della gioventù

Verbs

apply for a visa = fare richiesta di un visto; arrive = arrivare; be on holiday/vacation = essere in vacanza; board = salire a bordo; book = prenotare; brake = frenare; catch = prendere un mezzo di trasporto pubblico (es treno, autobus); change = cambiare; check in = registrarsi all'arrivo in albergo; check out = saldare il conto e lasciare l'albergo; confirm = confermare; delay = rinviare, ritardare, causare un ritardo; deliver = consegnare; depart = partire; drive = guidare; (to be) due = essere atteso; explore = esplorare; fly = volare;  go abroad = andare all'estero; go camping = andare in campeggio; go on holiday / vacation = andare in vacanza; go sightseeing = andare a visitare i monumenti;  hitchhike = fare l'autostop; land = atterrare; leave = partire; make a reservation = prenotare; miss = perdere; park = parcheggiare; repair = riparare; reserve (e.g. a seat) = prenotare, riservare; return = tornare; ride = cavalcare, montare; sail = fare vela, salpare; sunbathe = prendere il sole; take off = decollare; translate = tradurre; travel = viaggiare;

Speaking

Do you enjoy travelling?

Have you ever been abroad? Where to?

Is there any country you would particularly like to visit? Why?

What is your favourite form of transport? Why?

Why do people travel?

Have you ever been camping? If so, did you enjoy it?

What do you usually do for your holidays?

Where did you for your last holidays?

Do you prefer going to the mountains or the seaside? Why?

Have you ever been on a school trip? Where to?

Do you enjoy sightseeing?

What are some things you always take with you when you travel?

Have you ever been in a difficult situation when travelling?

Which three destinations would you recommend to a tourist coming to your country for the first time?

Writing Part 3

Write a short story of about 100 words with the following title: "An unforgettable journey"

Entertainment, leisure and the media

action films = film d'azione; actor = attore; actress = attrice; adventure films = film d'avventura; admission fee = costo biglietto d'ingresso; advertisement / advert / ad = annuncio pubblicitario, pubblicità; art gallery = galleria d'arte; article = articolo; artist = artista; audience = pubblico; ballet = balletto, danza classica; band = banda, gruppo musicale, complesso; camera = macchina fotografica; cartoon =  cartone animato, vignetta umoristica; cassette player = registratore (per cassette); cast = cast; CD = CD; CD player = lettore CD; CD-Rom = CD-Rom; channel = canale; children's programme = programma per bambini; cinema = cinema; circus = circo; classical music = musica classica; comedy = commedia; comedian = comico; comic (adj.) = comico; commercial = pubblicità televisiva, spot; composer = compositore; concert = concerto; concert hall = sala per concerti, auditorium; conductor = direttore d'orchestra; costume = costume di scena; costume drama = opera teatrale in costume; dance = danza, ballo; dialogue = dialogo; director = regista; disco = discoteca; deejay / DJ = DJ; documentary = documentario; drama =  teatro, fiction; DVD (player) = lettore DVD; drum = tamburo;  drums = batteria; entertainment = trattenimento, divertimento; entrance = ingresso; episode = episodio; exhibition = mostra; exit = uscita; festival = festival; film = film,  pellicola; film maker =  cineasta, regista; film star = stella del cinema; folk music = musica folk; game show = gioco televisivo; guitar = chitarra; headline = titolo di giornale; hero = eroe; heroine = eroina; hit song = canzone di successo; horror film = film dell'orrore; interview = intervista; interviewer = intervistatore; interval = intervallo (per cinema e teatro); jazz music = musica jazz; journalist = giornalista; live = dal vivo; love story = storia d'amore; lyrics = testi di canzone; magazine = rivista; magic = magia; magician = mago; movie (US) = film; MP3 player = lettore MP3; music = musica; musical instruments = strumenti musicali; musician = musicista; musical = musical; news = notizie, notiziario, telegiornale; newspaper = quotidiano; nightclub = locale notturno; opera = opera; orchestra = orchestra; painter = pittore; pantomime = commedia musicale natalizia; perform = esibirsi; performance = esibizione; piano = pianoforte; play = opera teatrale; poem = poesia; pop music = pop, musica pop; presenter = presentatore; producer = produttore; programme = programma; quiz show = telequiz; recording = registrazione; review = recensione; rock music = musica rock; role = ruolo; romantic = romantico; row = fila; scene = scena; science-fiction film = film di fantascienza; screen = schermo; script = copione; sculpture = scultura; sculptor = scultore; serial = a puntate; series = serie; show = spettacolo; singer = cantante; soap = telenovela; songwriter  = paroliere, autore di canzoni; sports programme = programma sportivo; stage = palcoscenico; star = star; studio = studio televisivo; subtitles = sottotitoli; symphony = sinfonia; television / telly / TV = televisione; theme music = tema musicale; thriller = giallo; tune = melodia; TV guide = guida dei programmi TV; venue = luogo in cui si svolge un evento; video = video; violin = violino; weather forecast = previsioni del tempo; what's on? = cosa c'è in programma / in cartellone, cosa danno?

Verbs

act = recitare; applaud = applaudire; boo = fischiare; book = prenotare; clap = battere le mani;  dance = ballare; display = esporre;

Speaking

What do you usually do at the weekend?

Have you ever been to the theatre / opera / a live concert? Tell us about it.

Do you often visit museums? When did you last visit one?

Tell us about a museum you particularly enjoyed visiting.

How often do you go to the cinema?

What kind of films do you prefer and why?

Tell us about a popular game show in Italy.

What kind of TV programmes are most popular in Italy?

How many hours a week do you spend watching TV?

What are your favourite programmes? Why do you like them?

Tell us about a programme you really dislike.

Do you think we watch too much TV?

Is TV bad for children? Why? / Why not?

Do you like reality shows? Why? / Why not?

Do you ever listen to the radio?

Tell us about a museum you have visited.

What kind of music do you like?

Who is your favourite singer? Why?

Sports

Play is generally used with ball sports or competitive games where we play against another person.

Do is used for a recreational activity, individual sports or fighting sports.

Go is used with activities that end -ing.

Vocabulary list

athelete = atleta; athletics = atletica; badminton = badminton, volano; ball = palla; baseball = baseball; basket = canestro; basketball =  pallacanestro, basket; bat = mazza da baseball, racchetta da ping-pong; beach-volley = beach-volley; bicycle = bicicletta; bike = bici; board = tavola; boxing = pugilato; bounce = rimbalzare, fare rimbalzare; (to) catch = prendere, afferrare; champion = campione; championship = campionato; changing room = spogliatoio; climbing = arrampicata; coach = allenatore; compete = gareggiare, competere; competition = competizione, gara; court = campo (e.g. basket e tennis); cycling = ciclismo; cyclist = ciclista; diving = tuffi; (to) enter a competition = partecipare a una gara; equipment = attrezzatura; field = terreno di gioco, football field = campo da calcio; fishing = pesca; fitness = fitness; football (UK) / soccer (US) = calcio, palla da calcio; footballer = calciatore; goal = porta; goalkeeper = portiere; golf = golf; gym(nastics) = ginnastica; gym(nasium) = palestra; gymnast = ginnasta; helmet = elmetto, casco; high jump = salto in alto; hit = colpire; hockey = hockey; horse riding = equitazione; ice hockey = hockey su ghiaccio; ice skating = pattinaggio su ghiaccio; indoors = al coperto; instructor = maestro, istruttore; jogging = footing;  join in = partecipare, unirsi a; kick = calciare; locker = armadietto; locker-room = spogliatoio; long-jump = salto in lungo; martial arts = arti marziali; match = partita;  motor-cycling = motociclismo; net = rete; outdoors = all'aperto; point(s) = punti; practice = allenamento; practise = esercitarsi; prize = premio; race = gara; race-track = pista da corsa; racing = corse; racket = racchetta; referee = arbitro; reserve = riserva; ride = cavalcare; rugby = rugby; running = corsa, correre; sail = vela, fare vela; sailing = vela; score = punteggio; (to) score = segnare un punto, fare gol; scuba-diving = immersioni; season = stagione; shoot = sparare; shooting = tiro; skateboard = skateboard; skating = pattinaggio; skiing = sciare, fare sci; skis = sci; snowboarding = fare snowboard; sports centre = centro sportivo; sportsman / sportswoman = sportivo / sportiva; squash =  squash; stadium = stadio; surfer = surfista; surfing = fare surf; team = squadra; swimming = nuoto; swimming pool = piscina; sync swimming = nuoto sincronizzato; table tennis = ping-pong; take part in = partecipare, prendere parte a; tennis = tennis; track = pista; tracksuit = tuta; train = allenarsi; trainer = allenatore; trainers = scarpe da ginnastica; training = allenamento; versus / v = contro; volleyball = palla volo; water-skiing = sci nautico; weightlifting = sollevamento pesi; win = vincere; windsurfing = fare windsurf.

Speaking

Can you define the word 'sport'?

What is your favourite sport? How often do you practise it?

Are you good at sports?

Do you like watching sports on TV?

Did you watch the Olympics?

Is there any sport you really dislike? Why?

What sports are popular in your country?

Do you know of any sports that are popular in Great Britain?

Do Italian children do enough P.E, at school?

Do you prefe team sports or individual sports? Why?

Can you name three dangerous sports?

Have you ever been to see a football match? Did you enjoy it?  

Health, medicine and exercise

accident = incidente; ache = dolore, male; (to) ache = fare male; ambulance = ambulanza; antibiotic = antibiotico; appointment = appuntamento; aspirin = aspirina; balanced = equlibrato (e,g, 'a balanced diet'); bandage = benda; bend = piegare; (to) bleed = sanguinare; blood = sangue; blood test = esame del sangue; (to) break = rompere; breath = respiro; breathe = respirare; burn = scottatura; check = controllare; check-up = visita di controllo; chemist = farmacista; clean = pulito; cold = raffreddore; cough = tosse; cut = taglio; damage = danni; danger = pericolo; dangerous = pericoloso; dead = morto; dentist = dentista; die = morire; diet = dieta; doctor = dottore; dressing = medicazione; earache = mal d'orecchi; emergency = emergenza; (to) exercise = fare esercizio fisico; (to) fall = cadere;  (to) faint = svenire; (to) feel better = sentirsi meglio; (to) feel ill = sentirsi male; (to) feel sick = sentirsi male; fever = febbre; flu = influenza; (to) get better = riprendersi; (to) get worse = peggiorare, aggravarsi; (to) go jogging = fare footing; gym(nastics) = ginnastica; headache = mal di testa; health = salute; (to) hear = sentire, udire; hospital = ospedale; (to) hurt = far male; ill = malato; illness = malattia; (to) injure = ferire; injury = ferita; insurance = assicurazione; (to) keep fit = mantenersi in forma; (to) lie down = sdraiarsi; medicine = medicina; nurse = infermiere;  (to) operate on = operare; operation = operazione; pain = dolore; painful = doloroso; patient = paziente; pharmacy = farmacia; pill = pillola; prescription = ricetta medica; tablet = compressa; take somebody's temperature = misurare la temperatura, provare la febbre; (to) recover = guarire; sore throat = mal di gola; stomach ache = mal di stomaco; stress = stress; (to) swim =nuotate; (to) take exercise = fare esercizio fisico; temperature = febbre; toothache = mal di denti; walk = camminare;  wound = ferita; (to) wound = ferire 

Parts of the body

ankle = caviglia; arm = braccio; back = schiena; blood = sangue; bone = osso; brain = cervello; calf = polpaccio; cheek = guancia; chest = torace; chin = mento; ear = orecchio; elbow = gomito; eye = occhio; eyebrow = sopracciglio; face = viso, volto; finger = dito della mano; foot / feet = piede / piedi; forearm = avambraccio;  forehead = fronte; gum = gengiva; hair = capelli; hand = mano; head = testa; heart = cuore; heel = calcagno; knee = ginocchio; leg = gamba; lip = labbro; lung = polmone; mouth = bocca; nail = unghia; neck = collo; nose = naso; palm = palmo; shin = stinco; shoulder = spalla; skin = pelle; stomach = stomaco; thigh = coscia;  thumb = pollice; toe = dito del piede; tongue = lingua; tooth / teeth = dente / denti; waist = vita; wrist = polso; 

Speaking activties

Do you watch what you eat?

Do you eat lots of fruit and vegetables?

How much water do you drink every day?

Do you get enough sleep?

Do do you exercise regularly?

What do you do to keep fit?

Do you suffer from headaches?

Have you ever broken a bone?

Do you think life is more stressful now than 50 years ago?

What can we do to reduce stress in our daily lives?

Are computers bad for people's health? Why?

Writing Part 3

Write a letter to your friend Emma who wants to lose some weight and lead a healthier lifestyle, giving her some advice. (Write about 100 words)

Food and drink

apple = mela; apricot = albicocca; asparagus = asparagi; artichoke = carciogo; aubergine = melanzana; bacon = bacon; banana = banana; bar = tavoletta (es. 'a bar of chocolate'); barbecue = barbecue; bean = fagiolo; beer = birra; biscuit (UK) / cookie (US) = biscotto; bitter = amaro; blackberry = mora; (to) boil = bollire; bowl = ciotola, scodella; bread = pane; breakfast = colazione; brunch = brunch; Brussels sprouts = cavolini di Bruxelles; buffet = buffet; butter = burro; cabbage = cavolo; cake = torta; can (e.g. of beans) = scatola di latta, lattina; candy (US) = caramella; canteen = mensa; carrot = carota; cauliflower = cavolfiore; celery = sedano; cereal = cereali; cheese = formaggio; cheeseburger = cheeseburger; cherry = ciliegia; chicken = pollo; chips = patatine fritte; chocolate = cioccolato; chop = costata; cocoa = cioccolata calda; coconut = cocco; coffee = caffé; cola = coca cola; corn = grano, frumento (UK), granoturco, mais (US); cream = panna; crisp / crispy = friabile, croccante; crunchy = croccante; cucumber = cetriolo; cup = tazza; curry = curry; cutlery = posate; delicious = delizioso; dessert = dessert, dolce; diced = a dadini, a cubetti; diet = dieta; dinner = pranzo formale, cena; dish = piatto, pietanza;  drink = bevanda; duck = anatra; egg = uovo; ethnic food = cibo di altri paesi; fig = fico; fish = pesce; flavour = gusto; flour = farina; fork = forchetta; French fries = patatine fritte; fresh = fresco; frozen = congelato; fruit = frutta; fruit juice = succo di frutta; fry = friggere; frying pan = padella; garlic = aglio; glass = bicchiere; grape = acino d'uva; grapefruit = pompelmo; greasy = unto; green beans = taccole; grill = griglia; ham = prosciutto; hamburger = hamburger; honey = miele; hot = caldo, piccante; hot dog = hot dog; hungry = affamato; ice = ghiaccio; ice cream = gelato; ingredients = ingedienti; jacket potato = patata cotta con la buccia; jam = marmellata; jar = vasetto; jug = caraffa; juice = succo; junk food = cibo spazzatura; ketchup = ketchup; kiwi = kiwi; knife / knives = coltello / coltelli; lamb = agnello; lemon = limone; lemonade = limonata; lettuce = lattuga; lime = lime; loaf / loaves = pagnotta / pagnotte; lobster = aragosta; lunch = pranzo; main course = portata principale; mango = mango; marmalade = marmellata d'arance;  mashed potatoes = puré di patate; mayonnaise = maionese; meat = carne; meatballs = polpette; melon = melone; menu = menu; microwave = microonde; milk = latte; milk shake = frappè; mineral water = acqua minerale; mushroom = fungo; mushy = in purea; mustard = senape; napkin = tovagliolo; nut = noce; oil = olio; olives = olive; omelet / omelette = omelette, frittata; onion = cipolla; orange = arancia; oven = forno; packed lunch = pranzo al sacco; packet = pacchetto; pan = padella; pasta = pasta; pastry = impasto, pasticcino; peas = piselli; peach = pesca; peanut = nocciolina; pear = pera; pepper = pepe, peperone; picnic = picnic; pie = pasticcio, torta salata; pineapple = ananas; pizza = pizza; plate = piatto; plum = prugna; pork = carne di maiale; potato = patata; pudding = dolce, dessert; pumpkin = zucca; raisin = uvetta; raspberry = lampone; raw = crudo; recipe = ricetta; refreshments = rinfresco, spuntino; rice = riso; ripe = maturo; roast = arrosto; roll = panino; salad = insalata; salmon = salmone; salt = sale; salty = salato; sandwich = panino, tramezzino; saucer = piattino; sausage = salsiccia; scone = scone (tipico dolce inglese); seafood = frutti di mare; shepherd's pie = shepherd's pie (tipico piatto inglese fatto con puré e carne trita di agnello); slice = fetta; snack = snack, spuntino; soft drink = bibita analcolica; soup = zuppa, minestra; sour = aspro; spicy = piccante; spinach = spinaci; spoon = cucchiaio; steak = bistecca; stew = stufato; stove = stufa; strawberry = fragola; sugar = zucchero; supper = cena; sweet = dolce; table = tavola; tablecloth = tovaglia; tablespoon = cucchiaio da tavola; taste = gusto, sapore; tasty = gustoso, saporito; tea = tè; thirsty = assetato; tin = scatoletta di latta; toast = pane tostato; toaster = tostapane; tomato = pomodoro; tuna = tonno; turkey = tachino; trifle = zuppa inglese; vanilla = vaniglia; veal = vitello; vegetable = verdura; vegetarian = vegetariano; vinegar = aceto; yoghurt = yogurt; Yorkshire pudding = Yorkshire pudding; yummy (colloquial) = squisito; water = acqua; water-melon = anguria; wine = vino; wine-list = lista dei vini.

Verbs

bake = cuocere al forno; barbecue = cucinare sul barbecue; boil = bollire; cook = cucinare; deep-fry = friggere;  eat = mangiare; fry = friggere; grill = grigliare; microwave = cucinare nel microonde; roast  = arrostire; taste = assaggiare; toast = tostare

Vocabulary activities

Can you identify all the cutlery in the list?

What about the different kinds of meat?

What’s the difference between chips and French fries?

And between jam and marmalade?

Can you identify the dairy products in the list above?

What kind of food is sold in boxes?

What kind of food is sold in bags?

What kind of food is sold in jars?

What kind of food is sold in tins?

What is sold in cartons?

Useful language

Do you feel like a coffee?

Black or white?

How much sugar do you take?

Would you like some orange juice?

Would you like a piece of toast? Or would you rather have a pastry?

I'll have toast and marmalade, please.

Speaking Part 2

You want to celebrate your birthday with your friends. Discuss with a school-mate the pros and cons of the following: a picnic, a party at home, dinner at a restaurant. 

Speaking part 4 practice

Talking about food (here below you will find some sample questions)

What is your favourite food?

What about your least favourite?

Can you cook? If so, what?

Do you ever skip breakfast?

What’s your favourite dessert?

How many meals a day should we eat?

Do you think yours is a balanced diet? Why / Why not?

Do you enjoy eating out? How often do you do so?

Have you got a favourite restaurant? What’s it like?

What have you eaten so far today?

Do you know what ‘brunch’ is?

Do you ever eat food from other countries? If so, what?

Are you adventurous when you have the opportunity to taste new food?

What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?

Do you eat ‘rare’ steak ? If not, why not?

Is it right to sell sweets and soft drinks in school cafeterias?

Do you ever eat at fast food restaurants?

What is your opinion of British food?

Do you worry about your calorie intake when deciding what to eat?

What do you think of vegetarians?

Is there any food you are allergic to?

Writing Part 1

1.Martin suggested having a pizza.
Martin said, 'Let's  ________________________.'

2.In my family, supper is usally cooked by my father.
In my family, my father ________________________ supper.

3.My grandmother told me not to burn the toast.
My grandmother said, 'Don't  ________________________ .'

4.Sharon said, 'Can I have roast chicken and vegetables, please?'
Sharon asked  ________________________  and vegetables.

5.Should I get a loaf of bread?
Would you like  ________________________  a loaf of bread?

6.The food here is not as good as the food we had in the Indian restaurant.
The food we had in the Indian restaurant was  ________________________  food here.

7. The waiter recommended the pork chops.
The waiter said, "If I  ________________________, I would have the pork chops.'

8.Salad is healthier than chips.         
Chips are not ________________________ salad.

Writing Part 2 - short message

Write an email to your English-speaking friend Joanna. In your email you should:

invite your friend to join you and your family for a picnic on Saturday

tell her where you're planning to go

tell her what to bring

Write 35-45 words.

Writing Part 3 – letter

Write a letter to an English pen-friend telling him about eating habits in Italy. Write your answer in about 100 words.

School and education

absent = assente; advanced = avanzato; arithmetic = aritmetica; art = arte; assembly hall = aula magna; beginner = principiante; bell = campana; biology = biologia; boarding-school = collegio; book = libro; break = intervallo; certificate = certificato; chemistry = chimica; class = classe, lezione; classroom = aula; coach = allenatore; co-ed (co-educational) = scuola frequentata sia da femmine che da maschi; college = istituto d'istruzione superiore, università; composition = tema; compulsory education = scuola dell'obbligo; computer science / computer studies = informatica; course = corso; curriculum = programma di studi; degree = laurea; diploma = diploma; distance learning = formazione a distanza, FAD; drama = teatro; economics = economia; education = istruzione; elementary = elementare, di base; English = inglese; essay = tema; evening classes = corsi serali; examination / exam = esame; exam paper = testo d'esame; French = francese; geography  = geografia; German= tedesco; grant = sovvenzione, borsa di studio; history = storia; hand-writing = calligrafia; headmaster / headmistress = preside; holidays / vacation = vacanza; homework = compiti; intermediate = intermedio; instructor = insegnante, maestro; iIT (Information Technology) = informatica; kindergarten = asilo; laboratory (lab) = laboratorio; languages = lingue; learner = studente, corsista; lecture = lezione universitaria, conferenza; lecturer = docente universitario, conferenziere; lesson = lezione; library = biblioteca; literature = letteratura; locker = armadietto; mark = voto; mathematics = matematica; math(s) = matematica; music = musica; nature studies = studi naturalistici; nursery school = asilo; packed lunch = pranzo portato da casa; period = ora di lezione; P.E. (Physical Education) = educazione fisica; pencil = matita; physics = fisica; playground = cortile della scuola; primary school = scuola elementare; professor = professore all'università; pupil = scolaro; qualification = qualifica, titolo di studio; qualify = diplomarsi, ottenere un titolo; register = registro; results = esito; rubber (UK) / eraser (US) = gomma; (school) canteen = mensa; (school) report = pagella; science = scienze; secondary / high school = scuola secondaria, liceo; single-sex school = scuola non mista; Spanish = spagnolo; sports ground / field = campo sportivo; staffroom = sala professori; state school = scuola statale; subject = materia; take / sit an exam = sostenere un esame; teacher = insegnante, professore delle medie e del liceo; technology = tecnologia; term = trimestre; timetable = orario; undergraduate = studente universitario in corso di laurea di primo livello; uniform = divisa; university = università

Objects used at school

atlas = atlante; biro / ballpoint pen = penna, penna a sfera; blackboard = lavagna; board / whiteboard = lavagna; calculator = calcolatrice; CD-player = lettore CD; chalk = gesso; computer = computer; coursebook = libro di testo; crayon = pastello; desk = banco; dictionary = dizionario; folder = raccoglitore; fountain pen = penna stilografica; glue = colla; highlighter = evidenziatore; interactive whiteboard = LIM; notebook / exercise book = quaderno; noticeboard = bacheca; notes = appunti; overhead projector = lavagna luminosa; pen = penna; pencil = matita; pencil case = astuccio; pencil sharpener = temperamatite; rubber (UK) / eraser (US) = gomma; ruler = righello; stapler = cucitrice;  swipe card = ciò che qui a scuola chiamiamo 'badge'; uniform = divisa; workbook = eserciziario

Verbs

attend = frequentare; break up = sospendere le lezioni per le vacanze; call the register / take the attendance register = fare l'appello; cheat = copiare; do one's best = fare del proprio meglio; do one's homework = fare i compiti; educate = istruire; fail = non superare (es. esame); give in / hand in = consegnare (es. fogli, compiti); give out /hand out = distribuire (es. fogli, compiti); graduate = laurearsi; learn = imparare, apprendere; learn by heart = imparare a memoria; line up = mettersi in fila; make a mistake = fare un errore; make good progress = fare buoni progressi; pass (e.g. exam) = superare, essere promosso; qualify = diplomarsi, superare l'esame finale, conseguire un titolo di studio; raise one's hand = alzare la mano; revise = ripassare; start school = andare a scuola, iniziare la scuola (da bambini); study = studiare; take / sit an exam = sostenere un esame; teach = insegnare;

Speaking

Do you enjoy coming to school? Why? / Why not?

What subjects are you good at?

What subjects don't you like?

Where and how do you study? (e.g. Do you need silence? / Do you study with other people or on your own? )

Do you always do your homework?

Have you ever been caught cheating in a test?

If you could study a language which is not taught here at school, which language would you like to study?

Do you think it is easy to be a teacher? Why? / Why not?

Do you think your teachers give too much homework?

What are some of the rules you have to follow at school?

What makes a good student?

Are you sitting any exams this year?

Did you sit any exams last year?

Did you go to nursey school? Do you remember anything about it?

Do you think it is better to attend a co-ed or a single-sex school? Why?

Jobs and work

accountant =  ragioniere, contabile; actor = attore; actress = attrice; application = domanda di lavoro; archaeologist = archeologo; architect = architetto; army = esercito; artist = artista; assistant = assistente, vice; astronaut = astronauta; athlete = atleta; au-pair = ragazza alla pari; babysitter = babysitter; baker = fornaio, panettiere; banker = banchiere; bank manager = direttore di banca; bookseller = libraio; boss = capo; bricklayer = muratore; bus driver = conducente d'autobus; businessman = uomo d'affari; businesswoman = donna d'affari; butcher = macellaio; cameraman = cameraman; candidate = candidato; canteen = mensa; captain = capitano; career = carriera; carpenter = falegname; chef = chef ; chemist = farmacista; clerk = impiegato; colleague = collega; comedian = comico; company = società; conference = conferenza, congresso; consul = console; consulate = consolato; consultant = consulente; contract = contratto; cook = cuoco; crew = equipaggio; curriculum vitae / CV = curriculum vitae; customs officer = doganiere; dancer = ballerino; delivery = consegna; dentist = dentista; department = reparto; designer = stilista, progettista; detective = detective; diploma = diploma; disc jockey / DJ = disc jockey; director =  responsabile, direttore, regista; diver = sommozzatore; doctor = dottore; driver = autista, conducente; driving instructor = istruttore di guida; dustman = spazzino; electrician = elettricista; (to) employ = assumere, impiegare; employee = dipendente, impiegato; employer = datore di lavoro; employment = impiego; engineer = ingegnere, tecnico; factory = fabbrica; factory worker = operaio; farmer = agricoltore; fashion designer = stilista; fee = onorario, parcella; film star = divo del cinema; fireman / fire fighter = pompiere; fisherman = pescatore; flight attendant = assistente di volo; full time = a tempo pieno; gardener = giardiniere; graphic designer = grafico; greengrocer = fruttivendolo; grocer = droghiere; guard = guardia, custode; hairdresser = parrucchiere; housewife = casalinga; housework = lavori domestici; inspector = ispettore; instructor = istruttore; interior designer = architetto d'interni; interpreter = interprete; interview = colloquio di lavoro, intervista; jeweller = gioielliere; job = lavoro; journalist = giornalista; judge = giudice; lab(oratory) = laboratorio; labourer = manovale, bracciante; lawyer = avvocato; lecturer = conferenziere; librarian = bibliotecario; lifeguard = bagnino; lorry driver = camionista; manager = dirigente, gestore ; mechanic = meccanico; meeting = riunione; model = modello; monk = monaco; musician = musicista; nanny = bambinaia; newsagent = edicolante; novelist = romanziere; nun = suora; nurse = infermiere; occupation = occupazione; office worker = impiegato; officer (e.g. prison/police) = agente; operator = centralinista; out of work = disoccupato; overtime = straordinari; owner = proprietario; painter = pittore; part time = part time; pension = pensione; pensioner = pensionato; photographer = fotografo; physician = medico; pilot = pilota; plumber = idraulico; poet = poeta; policeman = poliziotto; policewoman = donna poliziotto; police officer = agente di polizia; politician = politico; porter = facchino; postman = postino; presenter = presentatore; president = presidente; priest = prete; producer = produttore; profession = professione; professional = professionale; professor = professore universitario; (computer) programmer = programmatore; promotion = promozione; psychiatrist = psichiatra; psychologist = psicologo; publisher = editore; qualification = titolo di studio; receptionist = receptionist; reporter = reporter; (to) retire = andare in pensione; retirement = pensionamento;  sack = licenziare; sailor = marinaio; salary = stipendio; sales assistant = commesso; salesman = venditore; saleswoman = venditrice; scientist = scienziato; secretary = segretaria; security guard = guardia giurata; self-employed = lavoratore autonomo; servant = domestico; shepherd = pastore; shopkeeper = negoziante; shop assistant = commesso; singer = cantante; soldier = soldato; sports instructor =  istruttore sportivo; staff = personale; surgeon = chirurgo; tailor = sarto; taxi driver = tassista; teacher = insegnante; tourist guide = guida turistica; trade = commercio; translator = traduttore; travel agent = agente di viaggio; unemployed = disoccupato; university lecturer = professore universitario; vet = veterinario; wage(s) = salario, paga; waiter = cameriere; waitress = cameriera; writer = scrittore

Verbs

apply for a job = inoltrare una domanda; earn = guadagnare; fire = licenziare; quit (coll.) = dare le dimissioni; retire = andare in pensione; sack = licenziare;

Speaking

Which of the jobs listed above are the most tiring in your opinion?

Which of the jobs listed above would you say is the most enjoyable?

Which of the jobs above is badly paid?

List three jobs that you think are well-paid.

Which of the jobs above would you like to do?

Are any of the jobs above dangerous?

Would you rather work indoors or outdoors?

Do you think footballers are paid too much?

Is there a lot of unemployment in your country?

Why do you think people choose one job rather than another?

Tell us about someone who's got a really interesting job.

Festivals and celebrations

Reading

Read the following descriptions of British festivals. 

Held yearly on the August bank holiday, the Notting Hill Carnival is the second largest street fesival in the world after the Rio Carnival.  Originally set up by the West Indian community living in the area to combat racism, it has turned into an event attended by over 1.5 million people, who come to take in the music, the dancing, the decorated floats, the street performances and the Caribbean atmosphere.

Held in June  almost every year, the Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts, is the largest 'greenfield' festival in the world. The setting is that of the Vale of Avalon, an area with strong mythological associations. Best known for its music scene, which ranges from pop to jazz, to rock and to folk, the festival also features drama, dance performances and  circus acts. The money raised goes to support a number of well-known charities.

The National Eisteddfod is an event celebrating Welsh music and poetry. It takes place in the first week in August at a different site every year and consists of a series of competitions, all held in Welsh, to select the best singers, poets and choirs. It draws about 150,000 people a year.

The Edinburgh Festival actually consists of a series of separate festivals which, taken together, form the largest cultural festival in the world. The festival which possibly draws the largest crowds is the so-called Fringe, held in August and lasting three full weeks. Artists of all kinds – actors, comedians, musicians, dancers, street artists – flock from all over the world and perform throughout the city, both in traditional venues and on the streets.

Speaking activities

What are some of the most famous festivals and celebrations in your country? When are they celebrated? Give as many details as possible: food, music, traditions, legends, events, etc. 

What can you tell me about the following? April Fools' Day / Thanksgiving / Easter / May Day

Writing part 2

Write an email to a friend telling him or her about a festival in your country. Say when and where the festival is, what it celebrates and what people do at the festival. (35-45 words)

The natural world and the environment

The natural world

air = aria; area = area; archipelago = arcipelago; bay = baia; beach = spiaggia; branch = ramo; bush = cespuglio; canal = canale; cave = grotta; cliff = scogliera; coal = carbone; coast = costa; continent = continente; country = campagna; countryside = campagna; desert = deserto; earth = terra; farm = fattoria; farmland = terreno agricolo, terreno coltivato; field = campo; fire = incendio; flower = fiore; forest = foresta; grass = erba; harbour = porto; hedge = siepe; hill = collina; ice = ghiaccio; iceberg = iceberg; island = isola; jungle = giungla; lake = lago; land = terra, terreno; leaf = foglia; map = mappa; meadow = prato; moon = luna; mountain = montagna; mountain range = catena montuosa; nature = natura; ocean = oceano; path = sentiero; pebble = ciottolo; planet = pianeta; plant = pianta; rainforest = foresta pluviale; region = regione; river = fiume; rock = roccia; sand = sabbia; scenery = paesaggio, panorama; sea = mare; seaside = mare (per villegiatura); shell = conchiglia; shore = sponda; slope = pendio; sky = cielo;soil = terra, terriccio; star = stella; stream = torrente, ruscello; sunlight = luce del sole; sunrise = alba; sunset = tramonto; sunshine = luce del sole; tide = marea; tree = albero; valley = valle; volcano = vulcano; waterfall = cascata; waves = onde; weather = tempo atmosferico; wild = selvaggio; wildlife = flora e fauna; wind = vento; windy = ventoso; wood = bosco; north, south, east, west = nord, sud, rst, ovest; North Pole = Polo Nord; South Pole = Polo Sud ; the Equator = l'Equatore; spring = primavera, summer = estate; autumn (UK) / fall (US) = autunno; winter = inverno; 

Weather

blizzard = tormenta; boiling = molto caldo; centigrade = centigrado; climate = clima; cloud = nuvola; cloudy = nuvoloso; cold = freddo; cool = fresco; damp = umido; degrees = gradi; drought = siccità; dry = secco, arido, non piovoso; fine weather = bel tempo; flood = inondazione; fog = nebbia; foggy = nebbioso; freezing = molto freddo, gelido; frost = brina; frosty = brinato; gale = forte vento; hail = grandine; heat = caldo; hot = caldo; humid = umido; hurricane = uragano; ice = ghiaccio; icy = gelido, ghiacciato; lightning = lampo; mist = foschia; misty = brumoso; rain = pioggia; rainbow = arcobaleno; rainy = piovoso; shower = acquazzone, scroscio di pioggia; snow = neve; snowfall = nevicata; snowy (e.g. snowy weather) = nevoso; storm = tempesta; sun = sole; sunny = soleggiato; sunshine = luce del sole; temperature = temperatura; thunder = tuono; thunderstorm = temporale; tornado = tornado; warm = tiepido; (weather) forecast = previsioni del tempo; wet = piovoso; wind = vento; windy = ventoso.

Verbs

flood = allagare, inondare; freeze = gelare;  grow = crescere; coltivare;

Animals

ant = formica; bat = pipistrello; bear = orso; bee = ape; bird = ucello; bull = toro; butterfly = farfalla; cage = gabbia; calf = vitello; camel = cammello; cat = gatto; cheetah = ghepardo; chicken = pulcino, pollo; chimpanzee = scimpanzé; cow = mucca; crocodile = coccodrillo; dinosaur = dinosauro; dog = cane; dolphin = delfino; donkey = asino; duck = anatra; eagle = aquila; elephant = elefante; extinct = estinto; fish = pesce; fly = mosca; fox = volpe; frog = rana; fur = pelliccia; giraffe = giraffa; goat = capra; goldfish = pesce rosso; gorilla = gorilla; hamster = criceto; hippo = ippopotamo; horse = cavallo; insect = insetto; kangaroo = canguro; kitten = gattino; lamb = agnello; leopard = leopardo; lion = leone; lizard = lucertola; monkey = scimmia; mouse / mice = topo; octopus = polipo; panda = panda; parrot = papagallo; penguin = pinguino; pet = animale domestico; pony = pony; puppy = cagnolino, cucciolo; rabbit = coniglio; seal = foca; shark = squalo; sheep / sheep = pecora / pecore; snail = lumaca; snake = serpente; spider = ragno; swan = cigno; tail = coda; tiger = tigre; turtle = tartaruga; whale = balena; wing = ala; zebra = zebra

The environment

acid rain = pioggia acida; bottle bank = camapana per il vetro; climate = clima; climate change = cambiamento climatico; coal = carbone; conservation = protezione, tutela; cut down = tagliare, abbattere (es. alberi); damage = danni; endangered species = specie in via d'estinzione; energy = energia; exhaust fumes = gas di scarico; gas = gas; global warming = riscaldamento globale; litter = rifiuti; ozone layer = strato di ozono; petrol (UK) / gas (US) = benzina; pollution =  inquinamento; (to) protect = proteggere; public transport = trasporti pubblici; recycle = riciclare; recycling = riciclaggio; rubbish = rifiuti; rubbish bin = bidone dei rifiuti; (to) save = salvare, risparmiare; solar panels = panelli solari; sources of energy = fonti d'energia; sprays = aerosol; (to) threaten = minacciare; (to) throw away = buttare via; traffic = traffico; traffic jam = ingorgo; use up = consumare; waste = rifiuti; (to) waste = sprecare

Speaking

What is the most beautiful landscape you've ever seen?

What's the weather like where you live in winter?

What's your favourite season? Why?

What are some things that can be recycled?

Can we as individuals do anything to reduce pollution and save energy?

Is there a lot of pollution where you live? Why? / Why not?

Why do we need forests?

Are you for or against hunting?

Can you name three endangered species?

Communications and technology

access = accesso; address = indirizzo; airmail = posta aerea; by post = per posta; calculator = calcolatrice; (to) call = chiamare; (to) call back = richiamare; CD player = lettore CD; CD-Rom = CD- Rom; (to) chat = chiacchierare; chat room = chat room; (to) click = cliccare; computer = computer; (to) connect = collegarsi; connection = connessione; (to) delete = cancellare; (to) dial = comporre un numero telefonico; digital = digitale; directory = elenco telefonico, directory; disc/disk = disco, dischetto; download = download; (to) download = scaricare; DVD player = lettore DVD; electronic = elettronico; electronics = elettronica; email = email; engaged = occupato (di tlefono); (to) enter = inserire; envelope = busta; equipment = attrezatura; fax = fax; (to) hang up = appendere il telefono;

homepage = hompeage; internet = internet; (to) invent = inventare; invention = invenzione; IT = informatica; keyboard = tastiera; laptop = portatile; laser = laser; machine = macchina; message = messaggio; mobile phone = telefonino, cellulare; mouse = mouse; mouse mat = tappetino del mouse; network = rete; online = online; operator = centralinista; parcel = pacchetto; password = password; phone = telefono; postage = affrancatura; postcard = cartolina; (to) print = stampare; printer = stampante;

program(me) = programma; reply = risposta; (to) reply = rispondere; (to) ring / ring up = telefonare; screen = schermo; software = software; switch on = accendere; switch off = spegnere; telephone = telefono; (to) text  = inviare SMS; text message = SMS; turn off  = spegnere; turn on  = accendere

Speaking

Do you write many emails?

Do you text a lot?

Do you enjoy playing computer games?

Do you use the Internet above all to study or for pleasure?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Internet?

What kind of things do people buy online?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying things online?

Are you on any social netowrking sites?

What are your favourite websites?

Do you ever chat on the Internet?

Do you ever read newspapers, magazines or books on the Internet?

Do you download movies or music from the Internet?

Do computers  make us save time or waste time?

Fonti

In copertina

"Jacks" Copyright ©  garryknight, estratto il giorno 27 settembre 2012 da http://www.flickr.com/photos/garryknight/2840488193/in/photostream/.Quest’opera è rilasciata nei termini della licenza Creative Commons Attribuzione - Condividi allo stesso modo 2.0 Generico (CC BY-SA 2.0) il cui testo è disponibile alla pagina Internet http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.it