US Economic Momentum Continues

VOAVideo: US Economic Momentum Continues

More signs that the US economy is moving in the right direction: The US Labor Department says new claims for unemployment benefits declined last week, dropping below 400,000 for the first time since July 2008. Other data also shows that businesses expanded in the month of December while home sales grew modestly in November. Despite the encouraging numbers, investors remain cautious as 2010 comes to a close. Mil Arcega reports.

Testing New Ways to Recognize What Makes a Good Teacher

VOA Learning English: Testing New Ways to Recognize What Makes a Good Teacher

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation launched the Measures of Effective Teaching project last year EDUCATION REPORT (download MP3)

A Whole New World, Brought to Us by Gizmos and Gadgets

VOA Learning English: A Whole New World, Brought to Us by Gizmos and Gadgets
A look back at the revolution in consumer electronics over the past decade TECHNOLOGY REPORT download MP3 (Right-click or option-click and save link)

2010 Christmas Underscores Economic Contrasts

VOAVideo: 2010 Christmas Underscores Economic Contrasts

The Christmas Holiday - a long tradition in the West, is quickly gaining a foothold in many countries. Even in countries with few Christians, the holiday which symbolizes the birth of Jesus, is finding a home among people of different cultures. But the holiday also gives insight into the tough economic times we live in. Mil Arcega takes a look at the Christmas spirit in a booming China and a debt-riddled Greece.

CN Business US Holiday Sales

VOAVideo: CN Business US Holiday Sales

VOA Learning English: Brighter Time for Stores This Season

Americans show they are more willing to spend this year on Christmas gifts ECONOMICS REPORT (download MP3)

iPads, E-Readers, Notebook Computers Top Wish Lists

VOA Learning English: iPads, E-Readers, Notebook Computers Top Wish Lists

''The buzz phrase in the industry is 'content anywhere,''' says a Consumer Electronics Association spokesman TECHNOLOGY REPORT (download MP3)

Recovering from a global financial crisis

VOAVideo: Recovering from a global financial crisis

The world's recovery from an economic downturn is proving to be a long winding road, and a bumpy one at that. But has the path that led to the global financial meltdown provoked governments enough to take corrective actions? VOA's Philip Alexiou reports.

Online Dictionary says Austerity Tops 2010 Words

VOA Learning English: Online Dictionary says Austerity Tops 2010 Words

Severe cost-cutting by governments in Europe has many looking up the word and worrying about the future ECONOMICS REPORT

Aiming for Work in the Video Game Industry

VOA Learning English News: Aiming for Work in the Video Game Industry

Jason is one of a growing number of students seeking jobs in the video gaming and technology industry. He attends Montgomery College in the state of Maryland.

Words and Their Stories: Money, Part 3

VOA Learning English: Words and Their Stories: Money, Part 3

Most people enjoy working for several reasons. Their job might be fun, or they like their employer and the other people at work. Most people I know, however, work for the money. I do not know anyone who is loaded, or extremely rich. download MP3 (Right-click or option-click and save link)

Inside Job Examines Economic Collapse

VOAVideo: Inside Job Examines Economic Collapse

More than two years after the U.S. government approved the $700 billion emergency bailout for the financial system, unemployment is high and housing foreclosures are still a cause for concern. Charles Ferguson's documentary "Inside Job," takes a hard look at the causes of the 2008 financial meltdown and warns there could be another recession if the Obama administration is not tougher on the U.S. banking sector and businesses it considers "too big to fail."

TV Over the Internet Pushes Broadband Growth

VOA Learning English: TV Over the Internet Pushes Broadband Growth

Internet Protocol Television normally requires a subscription and a box on top of the set TECHNOLOGY REPORT download MP3 (Right-click or option-click and save link)

New York Burger Company Hopes to Succeed at 'Cursed Corner'

VOAVideo: New York Burger Company Hopes to Succeed at 'Cursed Corner'

New York City has every kind of restaurant imaginable, from Albanian to Zambian. A French family of restaurateurs of Romanian and Vietnamese ancestry will soon enter this international mix. They will serve the American hamburger. But although the burger is a perennial favorite, their restaurant will be on a busy street corner with a history of failed restaurants. Some say the location is jinxed, but as VOA New York Correspondent Peter Fedynsky reports, the family has taken precautions to avoid the worst.

Words and Their Stories: Money, Part 2

VOA Special English: Words and Their Stories: Money, Part 2

Does money really make the world go round? WORDS AND THEIR STORIES download MP3 (Right-click or option-click and save link)

Domino's Celebrates 50th birthday

VOAVideo: Domino's Celebrates 50th birthday

Philip Alexiou talks with the president and CEO of Domino's Pizza about the company's turnaround campaign and its international operations.

President Obama Agrees to Extend Tax Cuts for 2 years

President Obama Agrees to Extend Tax Cuts for 2 years

The deal also extends aid for about 2 million jobless Americans ECONOMICS REPORT download MP3 (Right-click or option-click and save link)

Hero Pilot Now Turns to Stopping a Descent in New Pilots

VOA Learning English Video: Pilot Now Turns to Stopping a Descent in New Pilots

CHESLEY SULLENBERGER: "The number of student pilot starts, that is the number of people who begin to learn to fly, has decreased in the last number of years substantially. What we're trying to do is arrest that descent and to renew people's interest in aviation as a possibility for creation or for a profession."

PC Recycler Strikes Gold in Old Computer Chips

VOALearning English Video: PC Recycler Strikes Gold in Old Computer Chips

Each year, Americans throw away millions of tons of electronic devices. That means business is good for a small electronics recycler in Chantilly, Virginia.Company President Jeremy Faber established PC Recycler. He spoke to us from the floor of his company's processing center. Workers were busy taking apart televisions, cell phones and computers -- anything electronic. Jeremy Faber says the flow of discarded electronics is only increasing. (read more)

US Unemployment at 9.8% as Hiring Slowed in November

VOAVideo: US Unemployment at 9.8% as Hiring Slowed in November

The U.S. unemployment rate rose to a seven month high in November as employers added fewer than 40,000 jobs to their payrolls. That's a sharp decline from October, when private sector employment grew by more than 150,000. After remaining unchanged at 9.6 percent for three months Friday's disappointing numbers helped push the nation's unemployment rate two-tenths of a point higher. Mil Arcega has more.

Words and Their Stories: Money, Part 1

VOA Special English program WORDS AND THEIR STORIES: Money, part 1

I think people everywhere dream about having lots of money. I know I do. I would give anything to make money hand over fist. I would like to earn large amounts of money...download MP3

Presidential Panel Outlines Big Changes to Tame US Debt

VOAVideo: Presidential Panel Outlines Big Changes to Tame US Debt

A presidential panel charged with finding ways to pull the U.S. out of its spiraling debt is calling for sweeping changes that would impact all Americans for generations to come. The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform recommends raising the retirement age and eliminating costly tax breaks as part of a larger plan to reduce the nation's mushrooming debt. The commission's leaders say failure to act could have grave consequences for the U.S. - but even panel's members are divided on whether the steps go too far or not far enough. Mil Arcega has more.

VOANews: Nobel Prize Winner Predicts Long Unemployment Crisis in US

VOANews: Nobel Prize Winner Predicts Long Unemployment Crisis in US

Award-winning research includes mathematical model to understand how long it takes workers to find jobs

US Unemployment Benefits Set to Expire

VOAVideo: US Unemployment Benefits Set to Expire

Hundreds of thousands of Americans will see their federal unemployment benefits expire this week, and millions more by the end of the year, unless Congress acts to extend them. The payments are designed to provide the jobless with just enough temporary income to cover basic needs while they look for work. Congress has repeatedly prolonged the duration of those payments amid high U.S. unemployment but another extension is far from assured.

ESL Podcast 636 – Being Lazy and Energetic

Are you an "ant" (energetic) or a "grasshopper" (lazy)?

ESL Podcast 636 – Being Lazy and Energetic

Are you feeling tired from working all day? So am I! But before I fall to sleep, let me tell you that this episode is about being tired and energetic. Download Podcast

US Holiday Shopping Season off to Good Start

VOAVideo: US Holiday Shopping Season off to Good Start

Early indications show the holiday shopping season in the United States is off to a promising start. The National Retail Federation says the number of Americans who visited stores and websites during the so called "Black Friday" holiday weekend was up significantly from last year. As Mil Arcega reports, retailers are hoping the online equivalent, called Cyber Monday, turns out to be just as successful - as the crucial holiday shopping season gets underway.

Words and Their Stories: Let's Do Business

VOA Special English: Words and Their Stories: Let's Do Business

There are many special terms in the world of business. The following story is about a sweetheart deal which I made last week. I made the deal with a friend, and we both made a profit... download MP3

Neediest | A Teacher in Training

N.Y./Region: Neediest | A Teacher in Training - nytimes.com/video

After losing her eyesight, Libin Zhang, alone in a new country, rediscovers an old dream.

ESL Podcast 223 – A Mistake in the Hotel Bill

ESL Podcast 223 – A Mistake in the Hotel Bill

Hotel clerk: Here’s the bill for your four- night stay. Would you like the incidentals charged to your credit card?
May: Incidentals? I think there’s some mistake. I didn’t order any pay-per-view movies and I never ordered room service. And, I didn’t have any spa services, either.
Hotel clerk: Are you sure? We show three movies and two room service orders.
May: I’m positive. Could I speak to a supervisor, please? Download Podcast

Holiday Shopping Rush Begins in US

VOAVideo: Holiday Shopping Rush Begins in US

Shoppers turned out in large numbers on Friday, looking for bargains as the traditional holiday shopping season kicked off in the United States. Falling the day after the Thanksgiving holiday in the U.S., the day is widely known as Black Friday because it is the day when retailers often start moving into the black, the common term for making a profit. American consumers wasted no time, some camping for hours to get the best deals.

Survey Shows US Consumers Plan to Spend More During Holiday Season

VOANews: Survey Shows US Consumers Plan to Spend More During Holiday Season

There are more signs that American consumers are coming back as the key holiday shopping season gets underway. Revised figures show the U.S. economy grew faster than initially reported during the third quarter, thanks in part to an uptick in consumer and government spending. Retailers are hoping consumers will continue spending as the traditional holiday shopping season begins in the U.S. As Mil Arcega reports, a new consumer survey seems to think so.

ESLPodcast 97 - Checking into a Hotel

ESLPodcast 97 - Checking into a Hotel

Rob: Hi, I'm checking in. The last name is Rama.
Clerk: Yes, here is your reservation . You have a standard room reserved for two nights. Is that right?
Rob: Actually, no. It should be a suite. I had booked a non-smoking king. Download Podcast

ESL Podcast 382 – Types of Hotels and Accommodations

ESL Podcast 382 – Types of Hotels and Accommodations

Jamal: Have you found a place for us to stay in Chicago?

Erin: I’m still exploring the options. Instead of a run-of-the-mill chain hotel, I thought we could do something different. Download Podcast

ESLPodcast 110 - Hotel Reservations

ESLPodcast 110 - Hotel Reservations

My friend Sara offered to let me crash at her place in San Francisco, but I decided to stay at a hotel instead. Download Podcast

Budget Hotels - Part III

EZSlang: Budget Hotels - Part III

Discussion: Talk with a partner about the best ways to find cheap hotels or accomodations to your city....

Budget Hotels - Part II

EZSlang: Budget Hotels - Part II

When I graduated from college, I decided to take a trip to Hawaii as a way to celebrate. I first __________ a cheap hotel about a month before I left, and when I arrived, I couldn't believe how __________ the view were of the beach from my hotel window....

Budget Hotels - Part I

EZSlang: Budget Hotels - Part I

Finding cheap hotels with some nice amenities is often important to budget travelers like international students. Youth hostels, traditional inns, and pensions are also possible accommodations that would suit travelers.

Budget Hotel Rooms

Randall's ESL Lab: Budget Hotel Rooms

Man: Hi. I have a reservation for tonight, and I just want to check in.
Hotel Clerk: Sure. What's your name?

I. Pre-Listening Exercises
II. Listening Exercises
III. Vocabulary
IV. Post-Listening Exercises
V. Online Investigations

Hotel Check-In

Randall's ESL Lab: Check-in

Most people look for budget or cheap hotels when they go on vacation, but no matter whether you stay in a cheap hotel or a luxurious one, you can encounter problems when making hotel reservations. Write a list all of the possible problems that could occur with hotel reservations

I. Pre-Listening Exercises
II. Listening Exercises
III. Vocabulary
IV. Post-Listening Exercises

Hotel Reservations Vocabulary

Randall's ESL Lab: Hotel Reservations

When people go on vacations, they often look for affordable hotel accommodations that provide the amenities they need and want. Accommodations might include hotels, youth hostels, inns, and even campgrounds.

• Vocabulary
• Practice
• Follow-Up

EASY at Work Unit 3--Hotel Check-in

• Unit 3 Script - EASY at Work


• Unit 3 Keywords - EASY at Work
• Wiki for EASY at Work:Service & Hospitality (look for Unit 3)

ESL Podcast 584 – Calling in Sick to Work

ESL Podcast 584 – Calling in Sick to Work

If you’re sick, you need to take a day off from work. Find out how to tell your boss in English in this episode. Download Podcast

What did you do last weekend?

EnglishcafeDotCom:What did you do last weekend?

Jim discusses what he did over the weekend then invites the viewers to rewrite the script

'Don't Let Somebody Else's Words Dictate the Discussion All the Time'

VOA Learning English: 'Don't Let Somebody Else's Words Dictate the Discussion All the Time' Part 2

Second of two parts with Kathleen Reardon, author of "Comebacks at Work" (download mp3)

Advice for What to Say If Someone Leaves You at a Loss for Words Part I

VOA Learning English: Advice for What to Say If Someone Leaves You at a Loss for Words Part I

First of two parts with "Comebacks at Work" author Kathleen Reardon (download MP3)

US Hiring Accelerated in October

VOAVideo: US Hiring Accelerated in October

The U.S. job market improved in October with a net gain of more than 150,000 jobs -- more than double what analysts expected. Friday's report from the Labor Department represents the biggest increase since May and marks the 10th month of consecutive growth in the private sector. But as Mil Arcega reports, the gains were not enough to budge the stubbornly high 9.6 percent unemployment rate.

Voters Head To Polls in Midterm Elections

VOAVideo: Voters Head To Polls in Midterm Elections

Voters will decide who will occupy all 435 seats in the US House of Representatives, as well as 37 of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate. Gubernatorial races are also important, as states redraw Congressional districts following a 10-year census. Democrats are hoping for a good turnout so they can deter what many pundits say might be a Republican landslide. VOA headed to the polls today in the Virginia suburbs of Washington DC. Laurel Bowman has the latest.

US Economy Grows Two Percent in Third Quarter

VOAVideo: US Economy Grows Two Percent in Third Quarter

The US economy is growing. That's the good news. The bad news is that economic growth remains sluggish. The US Commerce Department says GDP (Gross Domestic Product), the broadest measure of the US economy, grew 2 percent, at an annual rate, between July and September - a slight increase from the previous quarter. The White House says the government report is more evidence that the economy has weathered the worst downturn since the 1930's. But the numbers are of little help for Democrats who face steep losses in next week's mid-term elections.

15 Months Out of Recession, but Not Feeling Like It

VOA Learning English Video: 15 Months Out of Recession, but Not Feeling Like It

American businesses are still slow to hire and unemployment remains near ten percent. But an economic research group reported in September that the recession in the United States ended in June of last year. It was the longest recession since the nineteen thirties.

Listening Test Level C

SOURCE: Level C Level C Audio (SEE BELOW)

You will practice one time. First, you will hear a question. Next, listen carefully to what is said. You will hear the question again. Then choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. You will hear everything one time. Listen.

Practice

What’s the problem?

􀂃 Joe, where’s your hard hat?
􀃠 Oh…sorry! I forgot to wear it.

What’s the problem?

• A
• B
• C

Listen to the MP3 for Questions 1 & 2

1. What problem does the woman have?

􀂃 I need to talk to Payroll about my pay statement.
􀃠 What’s wrong?
􀂃 They used vacation time for the days I was sick.

What problem does the woman have?

• A
• B
• C

2. What is the man asking about?

􀂃 Hi, I’m interested in your summer soccer camp program for kids. Can you give me some information?
􀃠 Sure! It’s a half day program and…let’s see… it starts next week…no, sorry…next month. You need to register by this Friday. It’s really popular. Last year we had to turn alot of kids away.

What is the man asking about?

• A
• B
• C

You will practice one time. You will hear the first part of a conversation. To finish the conversation, listen and choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. You will hear everything one time. Listen.

Practice
􀂃 Hi, Sonia! How’s it goin’?
􀃠 Great! How about you?
􀂃 Oh, fine. Whaddaya doin’ this week-end?

• A
• B
• C

Listen to the MP3 for Questions 3 & 4

3.
􀂃 Sammy’s Pizza.
􀃠 Where are you located?
􀂃 We’re on Third Avenue just west of Imperial.
􀃠 Did you say Third Avenue?

• A
• B
• C

4.
􀂃 Andrew, the printer keeps jamming again. Could you get someone to come and repair it right away?
􀃠 Again? We had a guy out here last week to fix it!

• A
• B
• C

You will practice one time. Listen to what is said. When you hear the question, Which is correct?, listen and choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. You will hear everything only one time.

Practice:

􀂃 Do we need onions?
􀃠 Yeah…get five or six.
􀂃 Well then…let’s buy a whole bag. It’s less expensive.
􀃠 OK.

Which is correct?

• A
• B
• C

Listen to the MP3 for Questions 5 & 6

5.
􀂃 When was the last time you visited your sister?
􀃠 I saw her in June.

Which is correct?

• A
• B
• C

6.
􀂃 Your lab results will be ready in about 3 days. You can call this number to find out if they’ve come in.

Which is correct?

• A
• B
• C

Listening Test Level B

Source: CASAS Level B Level B Audio (SEE BELOW)

First, you will hear a question. Next, listen carefully to what is said. You will hear the question again. Then choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. Listen to the MP3 for Questions 1 & 2

1. What does the woman say?

.....Let’s go for a walk at lunchtime.
.....I can’t go today. I have too much work to do.

What does the woman say?

• A
• B
• C

2. What button should you press for your credit card balance?

You have reached Town & Country Bank.
For your current checking or savings balance press “1”.
For your credit card balance, press “2”.
To report a lost or stolen ATM card orcredit card, press “3”.
For information about other services, or to speak to a representative, press “zero” at any time.

What button should you press for your credit card balance?

• A
• B
• C

You will hear the first part of a conversation. To finish the conversation, listen and choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. You will hear everything two times. Listen to the MP3 for Questions 3 & 4.

3. Doctor Khan says I need to lose weight.

• A
• B
• C
  

4. What’s wrong with Lupe?

• A
• B
• C

Listen to what is said. When you hear the question, Which is correct? Listen and choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. You will hear everything only one time. Listen to the MP3 for Questions 5 & 6

5. Where’s Nancy?
.....She’s on vacation. She won’t be back until the 10th.
.....Oh, really. Where’d she go?
.....She went to Wisconsin to see her family.

Which is correct?

• A
• B
• C

6. .....Hello. I’m Dr. Meade. What brings you here today?
........I’m feeling very run down. I’m getting a lot of sleep, but when I get up to go to work, I still
feel tired.

Which is correct?

• A
• B
• C

Listening Test Level A

Source: CASAS Level A Level A Audio (SEE BELOW)

Look at the Practice pictures and listen. Choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. Listen to the MP3 for Questions 1 & 2

1. How do you like your new apartment? I really like it. It has big windows.

Pictures:

• A. apartment bldg w/big windows
• B. apartment bldg w/very small windows
• C. house with big trees
  

2. I like this shirt but the sleeves are too long.
Pictures:

• A. woman wearing a long dress
• B. woman wearing a short-sleeved shirt
• C. woman wearing a shirt with sleeves too long

First, you will hear a question. Next, listen carefully to what is said. You will hear the question again. Then choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. You will hear everything two times. Listen to the MP3 for Questions 3 & 4

3. What time will the man get home?

.....What time will you be home?
.....5:00.

What time will the man get home?

• A
• B
• C

4. What does the man want to do?

.....I’m moving next week, can I borrow your truck?
.....Sure, no problem.

What does the man want to do?

• A
• B
• C
  

You will hear part of a conversation. To finish the conversation, listen and choose the correct answer: A, B, or C. You will hear everything two times. Listen to the MP3 for Questions 5 & 6

5. I’ve lived here for 6 years. How do you like it?

• A
• B
• C
  

6. Look out! There’s broken glass on the floor.

• A
• B
• C

CASAS Test Prep Activities for the Reading and Listening Tests

On Monday 11/01, VESL will take the CASAS Reading Test.

On Friday 11/05, VESL will take the CASAS Listening test.

Here are some exercises to help you prepare for the CASAS TESTS.

CASAS Test Prep Activities for the Reading Test

• Links to Activities to Form 27
• Links to Activities to Form 81 R
• Links to Activities to Form 81 RX
• Links to Activities to Form 83 R
• Links to Activities to Form 85 R
• Links to Activities to Form 185 R

CASAS Test Prep Activities for the Listening Test

• Level A Level A Audio (more practice on 10/20)
• Level B Level B Audio (more practice on 10/21)
• Level C Level C Audio (more practice on 10/22)

Milpitas Adult School ESL Computer Lab

BEP 167 ADV – Interviewing for your First Job (Part 1)

BEP 167 ADV – Interviewing for your First Job (Part 1)

On July 11, 2010, in Advanced, Business English, ESL Podcast, Job Interviews, by BEP

This Business English Pod lesson is the first in a three-part series on first job interviews.Job interviews can make anyone nervous. After all, you want to make the best impression you can. But as a new graduate, you have an added challenge: little formal job experience. You need to prove to [...]
BEP 167 ADV - First Job Interview (Part 1) [22:53m]: Play in Popup Download
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Miners in Chile Raised to Freedom after More Than Two Months Underground

VOAVideo: Miners in Chile Raised to Freedom after More Than Two Months Underground

Those 33 trapped miners in Chile are being pulled to freedom one by one after being underground since early August. VOA's Elizabeth Lee tells us about the rescue operations and the celebrations at the mine site.

VOANews: Chile Completes Rescue of All 33 Miners

The flawless operation to bring the miners to the surface ended earlier than expected

VIVA CHILE!

VOANews: Rescue of Chilean Miners Advancing Smoothly
Chilean officials say operation to rescue 33 trapped miners moving smoothly

Economic Conditions Raising Stress Levels in Workers

VOANews: Economic Conditions Raising Stress Levels in Workers

Studies have shown that long periods of stress can lead to serious health problems SCIENCE IN THE NEWS download MP3

Job Interview Exercise from Business English Site

Job Interview Exercises from Business English Site

• Job Interview 1
• Job Interview 2
• Job Interview 3
• Job Interview 4
• Job Interview 5
• Job Interview 6

Obama Urges Steps to Strengthen Economy

VOANews: Obama Urges Steps to Strengthen Economy

In September, President Obama proposed new measures to lift the economy. The central bank in its latest report said there was continued growth in the past several weeks, but with "widespread signs" of slowing. President Obama gave a speech near Cleveland, Ohio. He proposed a tax plan for businesses that make capital improvements, like buying new equipment.

ESL Podcast 444 – Planning for Retirement

In EASY AT WORK Episode 2, Sophia and Teresa chat about retirement benefits.

ESL Podcast 444 – Planning for Retirement

If I keep working at this rate for the next 20 years, between Social Security and my savings, I should be sitting pretty for retirement. ... Download Podcast

US Unemployment Stays at 9.6 Percent

VOAVideo: US Unemployment Stays at 9.6 Percent

The latest US unemployment report shows the economy shed 95,000 jobs in September. Although the private sector added 64,000 jobs last month, the gains were not enough to offset the loss of more than 150,000 jobs due to government layoffs. Despite the net loss, the national unemployment rate remained unchanged at 9.6 percent, as some Americans gave up looking for work. Mil Arcega has more.

VOANews: US Economy Sheds 95,000 Jobs

Loses came in government work, while private employers added positions

Business English Pod 44 and 45 – Socializing

Today’s Business English Pod lesson is the first in a two-part series on the basics of social English: starting a conversation, keeping it going, and finishing it appropriately. Successful conversation is an important part of networking – the skill of building up a network of contacts and relationships.

You’ll hear two dialogues. In the first, Penny, an HR officer from Malaysia, strikes up a conversation with George, the Asia-Pacific learning and development manager. “To strike up a conversation” means to start a conversation, usually with someone you don’t know too well.

• BEP 44 INT – Socializing: Striking Up a Conversation
• BEP 45 INT – Socializing: Keeping a Conversation Going

Jobview Bay Area

JobView BayArea

Find daily updated local, regional and national jobs. Users can apply on-line to any job, or email and/or text message job descriptions to themselves. Access Jobview Bay Area at the Library or at home.

EASY at Work: Unit 2--A Tour of the Hotel

• A Tour of the Hotel : SCRIPT
• Keywords
• Cloze Exercise Unit 2 Lesson 1.doc
• Laundry: EAW Workforce Skills 2-1.doc
• Employee Lounge: EAW Workforce Skills 2-2.doc
• Maintenance & Gardening EAW Workforce Skills 2-3.doc
• Gym and Spa: EAW Workforce Skills 2-4.doc
• Laundry Care Symbols Chart (pdf)
• Laundry List (2-up)

Job Interview Video by Milpitas Adult School

Job Interview Video by Milpitas Adult School

This is a video created by Ann Taguchi, Reva Larson, and Hongyan Zheng at Milpitas Adult Education center. The two actors in the video are current ESL students at the school, one from level 3 and the other from level 4.

Housekeeping: Laundry Operations

On Friday, we watched the first episode of EASY at Work Unit 2: A Tour of the Hotel. First stop on the Hotel Tour--the Laundry Room. Here is a short training video about Laundry operations from the American Hotel & Lodging Association Education Institute. What are the job tasks demonstrated on the video below?



EducationalInstitute: Housekeeping: Laundry Operations

The best techniques and laundry procedures save time, money, and potential injuries. This video provides a comprehensive, narrated training program covering all aspects of laundry operations, including preparation, gathering dirty laundry, sorting, washing, drying, folding and storing.

More info: American Hotel & Lodging Association Education Institute provides quality hospitality education, training and professional certification that serves the needs of hospitality schools and industries worldwide.

ESL Podcast 331 – Washing Clothes

On Friday, we took EASY at Work Unit 1 test, then watched the first episode of Unit 2: A Tour of the Hotel during which Teresa is introduced to the different departments and staff members. First stop on the Hotel Tour--the Laundry Room.

ESL Podcast 331 – Washing Clothes

Mina: Didn’t anyone teach you how to do laundry? You’re supposed to separate your whites from your colors and wash them separately. Download Podcast

Unemployed Americans Search for 'Lifeline' Until Jobs Return

VOAVideo: Unemployed Americans Search for 'Lifeline' Until Jobs Return

Unemployed workers in the United States are eligible for up to 99 weeks of government-provided financial assistance. Those who have used up their benefits call themselves "99ers" in reference to this limit. VOA's Carla Babb reports on how one 99er is struggling to survive with absolutely no income. (read more)

ESL Podcast 382 – Types of Hotels and Accommodations

ESL Podcast 382 – Types of Hotels and Accommodations

Jamal: Have you found a place for us to stay in Chicago?

Erin: I’m still exploring the options. Instead of a run-of-the-mill chain hotel, I thought we could do something different...... Download Podcast

Obama Signs Small Business Jobs Act

VOAVideo: Obama Signs Small Business Jobs Act

President Barack Obama on Monday signed into law a bill that he says will cut taxes and help small businesses to prosper. The measure narrowly passed along mostly party lines last week, and provides a minor but much needed political victory for Mr. Obama with mid-term elections just five weeks away. Mil Arcega reports.

ENGLISH FOR MY JOB: Food & Beverage Visual Vocabulary

ENGLISH FOR MY JOB: Food & Beverage Visual Vocabulary

• Visual English: Food & Beverage industry vocabulary 1


• Visual English: Food & Beverage industry vocabulary 2


• Visual English: Food & Beverage industry vocabulary 3


• Visual English: Food & Beverage industry vocabulary 4


• Visual English: Food & Beverage industry vocabulary 5

Learn English for Job Interviews #2

Learn English for Job Interviews #2

EnglishcafeDotCom - In this episode, Jim concludes an interview by trying to insure that he is the candidate chosen.

ESLPodcast 83 - Planning a Business Luncheon

After day-long meetings, conference attendees go to formal (yet fun) banquets in the same hotel.

ESLPodcast 83 - Planning a Business Luncheon

Learn about how to plan a business luncheon in English in this podcast. Download Podcast

US Hotels, Resorts Catering to Hindu Couples

VOAVideo: US Hotels, Resorts Catering to Hindu Couples

Some hotels and resorts in the United States are reporting a large increase in bookings by Hindu couples who are looking to hold lavish weddings. Some Indian-style weddings can involve hundreds of guests attending multiple ceremonies over several days, so such events are highly profitable for the hospitality industry. (read more)

ESL Podcast 583 – Going to a Spa

The spa is one of the most popular areas in a hotel!

ESL Podcast 583 – Going to a Spa

It’s time to relax, and there’s no better place than a spa. Learn how to talk about it in English in this episode. Download Podcast

15 Months Out of Recession, but Not Feeling Like It

VOANews: 15 Months Out of Recession, but Not Feeling Like It

The U.S. downturn lasted 18 months and ended in June 2009. Is productivity a signal of coming job growth? ECONOMICS REPORT (download MP3)

Learn English for Job Interviews #1

englishcafe.com - Learn English for Job Interviews #1

Jim Stroud is rambling on and on in this lesson. What is the meaning behind that? Tune in to find out.

ESL Podcast 300 – Arriving for an Appointment

ESL Podcast 300 – Arriving for an Appointment

What should you say when you arrive for a business appointment? Find out in this episode. Download Podcast

ESL Podcast 616 – Having a Business Mentor

Teresa's mentor helped Teresa to become a successful assistant manager.

Now Teresa is a director of Human Resources at Baker Hotel

and is read to help others to become successful, too.

ESL Podcast 616 – Having a Business Mentor

If you want to become successful in business, there’s no better place to start than talking to someone who has already achieved success. Learn more about mentoring in this episode. Download Podcast

On the Job 5

ESL Podcast 560 – Learning Work Rules and Routines

Sometimes our jobs don’t give us much independence, but require following the rules exactly. Learn more in this episode. Download Podcast

ESL Podcast 464 – Talking About Inventory

Every company needs to know what they have available to sell. Learn about discussing inventory in this episode. Download Podcast

On the Job 4

ESL Podcast 548 – Working for an Impossible Boss

Is your boss impossible to work with? I know mine is. Learn how to fight back in this episode. Download Podcast


ESL Podcast 452 – Dealing with Unhappy Employees

Having problems at work? Learn how to talk about it in English in this episode. Download Podcast

EASY at Work: Unit 1--Teresa's New Job

• Teresa's New: SCRIPT
• Keywords
• SpellingCity games for Unit 1
• Practice W4
• Emergency Contact Form
• Baker Hotel Organization Chart

Constitution Day!

Here is a slide show of the US Constituion.

Constitution Day (or Citizenship Day) is an American federal holiday that recognizes the ratification of the United States Constitution. Citizenship Day also recognizes all who have become citizens due to either coming of age or naturalization. It is celebrated on September 17, the day the U.S. Constitutional Convention signed the Constitution in 1787.

Before Constution Day, students study the US Constitution, focusing on the rights and responsibilites of American Citizenship. On Constitution Day, students sign a large copy of the Constitution and are given pocket-sized copies of the Constitution. Many Adult Schools honor the students who were naturalized as American citizen during the previous school year. The school also encourages the students who are preparing for naturalization during the upcoming school year.

For more info, see:

ELCivics.com: The US Constitution
Learn about the US Constituion with Pictures, Easy Lessons, and Fun Activities

ESLPOD English 92
LISTEN to the Preamble to the US Constitution.

National Constitution Center: Home
The National Constitution Center, located on Philadelphia's Independence Mall, is the worlds only museum devoted to the US Constitution.

US Citizenship Podcast
Check back every day for updated materials for Constitution Day. Here are some pictures from last year's celebration.

EASY at Work

On Wednesday, we began to watch EASY at Work, which has 15 units, with three to five lessons per unit. The 67 lessons include drills and vocabulary and are from 30 to 50 minutes long. The videos are not available online, but you can watch three video demos, and watch the EASY the ESL series Channel on YouTube--mini-lessons about how to use the series. You can also read the scripts (see below). The Unit Titles are:

Unit 1: Teresa's New Job
Unit 2: A Tour of the Hotel
Unit 3: The Lobby
Unit 4: The Hotel Kitchen
Unit 5: Front of the House
Unit 6: Job Skills & Qualifications
Unit 7: Job Interviews
Unit 8: Breakfast, Lunch & The Salon
Unit 9: Dinner Service
Unit 10: Housekeeping
Unit 11: Retail Sales
Unit 12: Taking Care of Business
Unit 13: The Custodian Job
Unit 14: Workplace Responsibility
Unit 15: Opportunity Knocking

On the Job 3

ESL Podcast 484 – Getting a Performance Evaluation

Working hard or hardly working? Find out about performance evaluations at work in this episode. Download Podcast

ESL Podcast 528 – Negotiating Salary

How much are you worth? Find out how to talk about getting a higher salary in this episode. Download Podcast

On the Job 2

Chau is going to Florida for six weeks

for advanced Beauty Salon training.

ESL Podcast 504 – Training Inexperienced Employees

Kazuko: I really appreciate you helping with the training of the newbies. I couldn't have done it without you. Martin: Don't mention it. Download Podcast

ESL Podcast 162 - Training a New Employee

Even though I’ve only been on the job for six months, my manager asked me to train the new hire. She was starting today and when she arrived, we got down to business. Download Podcast

On the Job 1

Thanks to Mai Trang & Kim for decorating the Hall Display Case.

Also thanks to Julie for the calendar & Celine for the Tigers!

ESL Podcast 312 – Different Work Styles

What kind of employee are you at your job? Find out how to describe different work styles in this episode. Download Podcast

ESLPodcast 59 - Teamwork

At school and at work, you have to be able to work with others. Find out how to talk about it in this podcast. Download Podcast

Designer Burgers Becoming the New Steak in Tough US Economy

VOAVideo: Designer Burgers Becoming the New Steak in Tough US Economy

Long a staple of the American fast food diet, the hamburger is getting a makeover as cash-strapped consumers turn to less expensive dining options. In Las Vegas, designer burgers are the latest rage, with top chefs adding their own flourishes to come up with a new twist on an American classic.

Interview Skills 5

Minire has hired and trained many salespeople.

ListenAMinute: Job Interviews: Job interviews are always hit and miss for me.

• Downloads: LISTEN QUIZ 1 QUIZ 2 PDF WORD

ESL Podcast 552 – Reviewing Job Applications

Get off your couch and get a job! Learn about how employers review job applications in this episode. Download Podcast

Interview Skills 4

The best way to get a job is through a friend of a friend...

ESLPodcast 86 - Asking About Jobs

Learn how to ask about someone's job in this podcast. Download Podcast

ESL Podcast 408 – Calling Someone You Haven’t Met About a Job

Learn how to make a business call in English to someone you don’t know in this episode. Download Podcast

Interview Skills 3

Ivy Wei is an efficient, yet friendly, cashier

at Mayflower, Great Mall, Milpitas.

ESLPodcast 94 - Nervous at an Interview I

I was on my way to an interview and there was a lot of traffic on the road. I got to the office in the nick of time for my appointment. Download Podcast

ESLPodcast 95 - Nervous at an Interview II

I was just in time for my interview and I was very nervous. Download Podcast