English

Big City Small World Series 01 Episode 01
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Introduction
This support pack accompanies the audio soap opera 'Big City Small World'. To listen to this episode, go
to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-1-meeting-friends
This support pack contains the following
materials:
x a pre-listening vocabulary activity;
x the transcript of the episode;
x two comprehension activities;
x two language activities
Before you listen
Exercise 01
Match the words in the table to their definitions.
a. actually b. anywhere c. both d. chance
e. complicated f. counter g. to interrupt h. whatever
1. in any place
2. a flat surface in a shop or caf where people are served
3. anything or everything
4. in fact, really
5. luck
6. to stop a person from speaking by saying or doing something
7. two people or things together
8. involving a lot of parts in a way that is difficult to understand
Transcript
Johnny: Hello! Hello? Excuse me! Excuse me?
Olivia: Just sit down anywhere they dont have
waiters in here!
Johnny: Oh, ok, is it ok if I sit here?
Olivia: Sure...but youll need to go to the counter
if you want anything...
Johnny: Actually, Im not really here to eat, or
anything. Im supposed to be meeting someone.
Olivia: Well, wait here long enough, most of
London will come in...
Johnny: Sorry?
Olivia: Just joking.
Sarah: Excuse me, is anybody sitting here?
Olivia: I cant see anyone!
Sarah: Sorry?
Olivia: Just joking. Go ahead, sit down.
Sarah: Thanks.
Olivia: You might be waiting a while if you sit
here.
Sarah: Sorry?
Olivia: There are no waiters here people
usually just go up to the counter and order
whatever they want.
Sarah: Oh...well...Im just supposed to be
meeting someone here actually...
Olivia: Not him, by any chance?
Sarah: Who?
Olivia: This guy here!
Johnny: Hello!
Sarah: Oh. No...
Page 2 of 3
Johnny: No...I am waiting to meet someone...but
not you! Where are you from, anyway?
Sarah: Well, I live in London now, but Im
originally from Shanghai.
Johnny: Thought so! Im from Hong Kong.
Olivia: Sorry to interrupt..but who are you both
waiting for?
Johnny: Im waiting for my friend Harry...
Sarah: ...and Im waiting for my friend Magda...
Olivia: How interesting!
Johnny: Erm...whys that interesting?
Olivia: Because Harry and Magda are both
friends of mine as well, and right now Im waiting
for both of them too...and here they are!
All: Hello
Olivia: Lets make this easier - Im Olivia!
Johnny: Im Johnny. Im a friend of...
Harry: ...mine. Hes a friend of mine. Im Harry.
Sarah: Ok! Im Sarah, and Im a friend of...
Magda: ...mine! Im Magda. Nice to meet you!
Olivia: This is complicated, isnt it? Shall I get
some tea? I think well need a big pot, this might
take some time. So, how do we all know each
other..?
After listening
Exercise 02
Put these events in the correct order
1. Johnny greets Sarah.
2. Harry and Magda arrive.
3. Johnny asks if he can sit at Olivias table.
4. Olivia suggests ordering some tea.
5. Sarah arrives.
6. Olivia is surprised to learn that Harry and Magda are coming to the caf.
7. Olivia tells Johnny that its a self-service caf.
8. Johnny mentions his friend Harry.
Exercise 03
Decide whether these statements are true or false
1. The caf is a popular place.
2. Sarah is a friend of Olivias.
3. Sarah is waiting for Harry.
4. Johnny is from Shanghai.
5. Olivia knows Harry and Magda.
6. Olivia introduces herself.
Exercise 04
Fill the gaps with someone or anyone
1. Im supposed to be meeting
2. Is . sitting here?
3. I cant see .
4. We use "" in affirmative sentences.
5. We use "" for negatives and questions.
Note! Somebody and anybody are synonyms of someone and anyone!
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Exercise 05
Choose the correct option; a, b or c.
1. I need to the bank.
a to go b go c going
2. Shes supposed arriving tomorrow.
a be b to be c being
3. Were waiting Julia.
a to meet b meet c for meeting
4. Shall I some drinks?
a to get b getting c get
5. Hes waiting for
a both them b the both of them c both of them
6. Where are you ?
a both of living b both living c living both
7. People go to that caf.
a usually b are used c are usually
8. Lets make the situation
a easier b easyer c more easy
Answers
Exercise 01
1. b; 2. f; 3. h; 4. a; 5. d; 6. g; 7. c; 8. e
Exercise 02
3. Johnny asks if he can sit at Olivias table; 7. Olivia tells Johnny that its a self-service caf; 5. Sarah
arrives; 1. Johnny greets Sarah; 8. Johnny mentions his friend Harry; 6. Olivia is surprised to learn that
Harry and Magda are coming to the caf; 2. Harry and Magda arrive; 4. Olivia suggests ordering some
tea
Exercise 03
1. True; 2. False (they havent met before); 3. False (Shes waiting for Magda); 4. False (Hes from Hong
Kong); 5. True; 6. True
Exercise 04
1. someone; 2. anyone; 3. anyone; 4. someone; 5. anyone
Exercise 05
1. a; 2. b; 3. a; 4. c; 5. c; 6. b; 7. a; 8. a
Page 1 of 4
Introduction
to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-2-job-offer
materials:
Before you listen
Exercise 01
In the table are 8 words from the programme. Below are synonyms of these words. Can you match
them?
a. break b. company
c. expert d. handmade
e. last f. mate
g. offer h. supply
1. friend
2. virtuoso
3. business
4. proposition
5. rest
6. homemade
7. provide
8. latest
Transcript
Harry: So how are things going, mate?
Johnny: Good. Things are good. Im really
enjoying my job...lots of work, but Ill be rich in
three years!
Harry: You work all the time. I dont know how
you manage it. You should take a break some
time, come and play football with me!
Johnny: Too busy, mate, too busy. Venture
capital its so exciting right now. All the
opportunities opening up in China. And Im here
to make the most of it! You should think about
changing your job, Harry get a piece of the
action!
Harry: Youre right...Im always thinking about
changing jobs...but I only know about
computers, nothing else.
Johnny: There are lots of computer experts
around. You need to specialise!
Harry: Perhaps youre right, but I really like my
job.
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Johnny: Is the money good?
Harry: Not bad...
Johnny: But not good?
Harry: Well, I could find a job that pays more,
but I would enjoy it less...
Johnny: You could come and work for our
company!
Harry: Hmmm..is that an offer?
Johnny: Yes...Im serious! Listen, Ill have a
word with the human resources people
tomorrow. I know there are some vacancies at
the moment in the IT team...youd easily get it.
Have to go now, see you soon.
Harry: Yeah, cheers, see you mate.
Olivia: Hi there! You on your own?
Harry: Yeah, Johnnys just gone off to work...
Olivia: As always. Never stops, that boy.
Harry: Talking of which, what are you doing
here. Shouldnt you be in the shop?
Olivia: Im just taking a break. Im fed up of
standing in that shop selling shoes all day, to tell
you the truth.
Harry: Theyre very nice shoes, though.
Olivia: All hand made, of course. But, like I
say, I dont want to spend the rest of my life
running that shop.
Harry: You could sell your shoes on the web.
Olivia: Thats right! Ive thought about that
already...
Harry: Have you got anybody to set up a
website for you?
Olivia: Nobut I did think...I was wondering...I
dont suppose....
Harry: What?
Olivia: ...that youd be interested?
Harry: Me? Do your website for you?
Olivia: Well, yeah...Id like someone I
know...someone I can trust...
Harry: Well, I guess I could do it, sure...Ill have
to think...
Olivia: Hi Fadi! How are you doing? Do you
know my friend Harry?
Fadi: No...nice to meet you!
Harry: Yeah...you too...cheers.
Olivia: Fadi works in the restaurant business,
dont you Fadi?
Fadi: Well, sort of, not exactly...we supply food
to lots of restaurants, but...I tell you..its a
nightmare at the moment...
Olivia: Oh dear. Whats the problem?
Fadi: Well, theres just too much work
really...cant keep up. Its my dads business,
but hes getting old now. My uncle works with
us too, but hes not really interested, so its all
up to me...I cant keep track of whats coming in
and going out...
Harry: Sounds like you need a better stock
management system!
Fadi: Yeah! Thats exactly what I was thinking
how did you know that?
Harry: Thats my job, innit? I set up
computerised stock management systems, all
kinds of business IT solutions...
Fadi: Wow! Thats brilliant! Listen...seriously
now...would you be interested in some work?
Harry: Erm...well..yeah!.... Thats three job
offers in the last five minutes! What should I
do?
After listening
Exercise 02
Choose which of the word(s) in bold is correct in each sentence, based on the information from the
programme.
1. Harry / Johnny plays football.
2. Harry likes / doesnt like his job.
3. There are vacancies for computer / human resource experts in Johnnys company.
4. Olivia sells cheap / expensive shoes.
5. Fadi prepares / sells food.
6. Fadis uncle / father owns the business.
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Exercise 03
Fill the gaps in the sentences with one of the words from the table.
a. alone b. exclusive c. job
d. online e. solutions f. workaholic
1. Johnny is a ..........................
2. Olivias shoes are ..........................
3. Harry has had three ......................... offers.
4. Harry is ......................... in the caf when Olivia arrives.
5. Olivia has thought about selling shoes ..........................
6. Harry finds ......................... for companies with computer problems.
Exercise 04
Match the words and phrases in the table with the verbs below to make common verb collocations.
a. a break b. a job
c. a shop or a business d. a website
e. football f. more
g. the most of something h. the truth
1. find
2. make
3. pay
4. play
5. run
6. set up
7. take
8. tell
Exercise 05
Choose the correct option; a, b or c.
1. You should ......................... a break.
a. take
b. to take
c. taking
2. Im here to make ......................... of it!
a. most
b. the most
c. more
3. I only know ......................... computers.
a. of
b. about
c. at
Page 4 of 4
4. There are ......................... vacancies.
a. any
b. a lot
c. some
5. Im fed up with ......................... in that shop.
a. to stand
b. stand
c. standing
6. I ......................... about that already!
a. ve thought
b. thought
c. did think
7. ......................... too much work.
a. There is
b. There are
c. There
8. Would you be interested ......................... some work?
a. on
b. by
c. in
Answers
Exercise 01
1. f; 2. c; 3. b; 4. g; 5. a; 6. d; 7. h; 8. e
Exercise 02
1. Harry; 2. likes; 3. computer; 4. expensive; 5. sells; 6. father
Exercise 03
1. f; 2. b; 3. c; 4. a; 5. d; 6. e
Exercise 04
1. b; 2. g; 3. f; 4. e; 5. c; 6. d; 7. a; 8. h
Exercise 05
1. a; 2. b; 3. b; 4. c; 5. c; 6. a; 7. a; 8. c
Page 1 of 4
Introduction
to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-3-kicked-out
materials:
Before you listen
Exercise 01
Match the words and phrases at the top to their definitions.
a. hang on b. harm
c. I'm up for it! d. jobs page
e. keep ahead of the game f. maintenance
g. take into account h. upgrade
1. a section of the newspaper where jobs are advertised
2. this is a colloquial expression asking someone to wait
3. to consider or remember when judging a situation
4. to hurt someone or damage something
5. to know more about the most recent developments in something than other people
6. to replace existing software wit a newer version
7. upkeep of something to keep it in good condition
8. willing and able to do or take part in an activity
Transcript
Olivia: Hi there Harry!
Harry: Hello Olivia. Hows it going?
Olivia: Not bad...what are you reading?
Harry: Just checking the jobs page of the local
newspaper...
Olivia: More? I thought you already had too
many job offers to choose from...
Harry: Well, I have...but theres no harm in
looking, is there?
Olivia: Suppose not.
Harry: Youve got to know whats going on...
Magda: Keep ahead of the game!
Harry: Exactly!
Magda: I think the internet is a better place to
look for jobs, though...
Harry: Youre probably right, but I spend all day
sitting in front of computers. Its nice to have a
change every now and then. So, Olivia, any
more thoughts on what we talked about... your
website?
Olivia: Yeah...well...like I said, Id love you to do
it!
Page 2 of 4
Harry: Great Id love to do it. Now then,
normally, for a job like that, Id ask about a
grand...
Olivia: A grand!
Magda: Whats a grand??
Olivia: A thousand pounds.
Magda: Phew! That sounds like a lot...
Olivia: It is!
Harry: It isnt really...thats what these things
cost now...if you take into account the work Ill
have to put into it, and all my time...
Olivia: Maybe...
Harry: But anyway, because were friends, Ill do
it for say, seven fifty...?
Olivia: Seven hundred and
fifty...hmm...well...can you let me think about
that? Ill get back to you in a day or two.
Harry: Sure! No probs!
Fadi: Hi
All: Hi there!
Fadi: Hang on, Ill just get a coffee and then Ill
be with you......ok, cheers! So, hows it going?
All: Good...fine...not bad!
Fadi: Harry thought any more about that offer?
Harry: Sure, yeah... Im up for it! Ill do it, no
problems.
Fadi: Great, we really need it. What kind of
costs are we looking at?
Harry: Well, the basic package will be fifteen
hundred...
Fadi: Hmmmm....
Harry: Then for upgrades and maintenance,
well, up to two five...
Fadi: Two thousand five hundred quid?
Magda: Quid?
Olivia: Pounds.
Fadi: You dont come cheap, do you Harry?
Harry: Im good at my job.
Fadi: Ill have to have a word with my
uncle...see if I can clear it with him. Ill get back
to you.
All: Hi there!
Olivia: Whats up Sarah?
Sarah: Just had some bad news...
Magda: Oh no! Whats the matter?
Sarah: Ive just been kicked out of my flat!
All: Oh no!
Magda: Kicked out?
Olivia: She has to leave...find another place to
live...
After listening
Exercise 02
Decide if the following statements are true or false.
1. Harry needs a new job
2. Olivia thinks Harry is asking for too much money
3. Fadi brings his coffee to the table
4. Fadi is going to ask his father about Harrys offer
5. Olivia knows what quid and grand mean
6. Sarah wants to leave her flat
Exercise 03
Match a word from the table with a word below to make six common collocations.
a. news
b. newspaper
c. offer
d. on e. package f. probs (problems)
1. bad
2. basic
3. hang
4. job
5. local
6. no
Page 3 of 4
Exercise 04
Fill the gaps in the sentences with a preposition from the table.
on in ahead for into back at from
1. There are too many job offers to choose ........
2. Theres no harm ........ looking
3. Youve got to know whats going .......
4. Its a better place to look ....... jobs
5. You have to take .. account the extra work
6. Im good ....... my job
7. Let me think about it and get ....... to you later
8. Its important to keep ....... of the game
Exercise 05
Choose the correct verb form.
1. How is it ..........?
a going b to go c go
2. Its a better place .......... for jobs
a for looking b to look c look
3. I spend all day .......... at my desk
a sitting b to sit c sit
4. Can you let me .......... about that for a few minutes?
a to think b thinking c think
5. I .......... kicked out of my flat
a have just being b just have been c have just been
6. She .......... leave her flat next week
a must to b has to c have to
Page 4 of 4
Answers
Exercise 01
1. d; 2. a; 3. g; 4. b; 5. e; 6. h; 7. f; 8. c
Exercise 02
1. False; 2. True; 3. False; 4. False; 5. True; 6. False
Exercise 03
1. a; 2. e; 3. d; 4. c; 5. b; 6. f
Exercise 04
1. from; 2. in; 3. on; 4. for; 5. into; 6. at; 7. back; 8. ahead
Exercise 05
1. a; 2. b; 3. a; 4. c; 5. c; 6. b

Page 1 of 4

ntroduction
to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-4-we-have-mission

materials:

x a comprehension activity;
x three language activities

Before you listen

Activity 01
Match the words and phrases at the top to their definitions.

1. accommodation 2. afford 3. flat
4. grateful 5. greedy 6. jealous
7. keen 8. landlord 9. leave off!
10. loads 11. matter 12. mission
13. offend 14. reasonable 15. sensitive
16. shared house 17. upset

a. a lot of (informal)
b. a person who owns and rents out a flat, a house, etc.
c. a place to live
d. a set of rooms for living in which are part of a larger building
e. an excessive desire for food, drink, etc.
f. an important job that someone believes it is their duty to do
g. based on or using good judgment and therefore fair and practical
h. easily affected in an emotional way
i. enthusiastic about something or someone
j. have enough money to buy or do something
k. house that you live in with other people who are not family
l. hurt somebody's feelings
m. showing or expressing thanks, especially to another person
n. the reason for pain, worry or a problem
o. unhappy and angry because someone has something or someone you want
p. used to tell someone to stop being annoying
q. worried, unhappy or angry


Page 2 of 4

Transcript

Harry: Well Sarah, here's the paper... was
looking at jobs...but you'll need the
"accommodation page!
Olivia: Hmmm, not very sensitive, Harry...
Harry: Have to go now...see you all!
All: Bye!
Olivia: What's the problem with your flat, then
Sarah?
Sarah: Well, was renting a room in a shared
house, but now the landlord has decided to sell
the house, so we all have to move out...
Magda: Oh no...that can be really difficult in
London. t's so expensive here...
Sarah: know, 'm not sure 'll be able to afford
it...
Olivia: Tell me about it!
Sarah: About what?
Olivia: Sorry... just mean, know how
expensive life is!
Sarah: Why's that?
Magda: Olivia wants Harry to set up a website
for her, but he's asked for loads of money!
Fadi: Yeah...me too!
Magda: think he's greedy.
Fadi: 'm not sure about that...he's a
professional after all. He's right to ask a
reasonable amount for his work.
Olivia: You're just like him, can see...only
interested in money!
Magda: Yeah, that's right...
Fadi: Leave off...'m not only interested in
money. like football too...
Olivia: don't think can afford it, but don't
know how to say "no without offending him
now.
Sarah: Do you think he'll be offended?
Olivia: Perhaps...
Fadi: shouldn't worry. He's not a very sensitive
guy, is he?
Olivia: No! like him, though...
Fadi: Oh yeah?
Olivia: Not in that way...he's just a friend...
Fadi: "Just a friend, eh?
Olivia: Are you jealous?
Fadi: Get out of here! Course 'm not. 've got
lots of girlfriends...
Magda: And they only ever last for two weeks!
Fadi: like to keep them keen!
Sarah: Oh yeah, sure...
Fadi: Listen, Olivia, if it makes it easier for you,
think 'm going to take Harry up on his offer. 'll
get him to do some work for me, then it won't
matter if you turn him down.
Sarah: do some work for a website, Olivia. t's
called DimSum.co.uk it's for the Chinese
community in Britain. could find out who does
their website they might be cheaper.
Olivia: Could you do that for me? 'd be really
grateful.
Sarah: Sure, no problem.
Olivia: And we'll try and help you find a flat!
Sarah: Thanks!
Magda: How long have you got before you have
to move out?
Sarah: Only a month.
Magda: That's not long.
Fadi: 'll ask around, see if anyone know has a
room free in their house...
Magda: 'll do the same thing...
Olivia: Me too!
Magda: Ok everyone...we have a mission!
Fadi: Find Sarah a place to live!
Olivia: And tell Harry he's greedy!
Sarah: think this might be difficult....
Magda: What? Finding you a flat, or upsetting
Harry?
Sarah: Both!


Page 3 of 4

After listening

Activity 02
Who (Sarah, Olivia, Harry, Fadi or Magda) .

1. ... is worried about accommodation?
2. ... complains about life being expensive?
3. ... thinks Harry is a good worker?
4. ... is worried about upsetting Harry?
5. ... makes fun of Fadi's love life?
6. ... offers to find another website designer?
Activity 03
Fill the gaps in the text with the words at in the table.

a. accommodation b. flat c. house d. landlord
e. room f. shared g. to live h. to rent

'm looking for a new place (1) ......................... My (2) ......................... wants to sell the
(3) ......................... that my (4) ......................... is in. 'd love to find a small (5) ......................... in the
town centre but it costs a lot of money (6) ......................... a place for one. The (7) .........................
pages of the newspaper are full of (8) ......................... houses, so 'll phone a few and see if am lucky.
Activity 04
Put the adjectives into the correct column, depending on whether their opposite takes the prefix 'in-' or
'un-'.

certain clear expensive
experienced reasonable sensitive

in un

Activity 05
Rearrange the words to make grammatically correct sentences.

1. problem What's flat with the your?
2. is. expensive life know how
3. interested not in money. 'm only
4. very, a he sensitive He's not guy is?
5. you do Could for that me?
6. help and you a We'll try flat. find

Page 4 of 4

Answers

Activity 01
1. c; 2. j; 3. d; 4. m; 5. e; 6. o; 7. i; 8. b; 9. p; 10. a; 11. n; 12. f; 13. l; 14. g; 15. h; 16. k; 17. q
Activity 02
1. Sarah; 2. Olivia; 3. Fadi; 4. Olivia; 5. Magda; 6. Sarah

Activity 03
1. g; 2. d; 3. c; 4. e; 5. b; 6. h; 7. a; 8.f
Activity 04
uncertain; unclear; inexpensive; inexperienced; unreasonable; insensitive
Activity 05
1. What's the problem with your flat?; 2. I know how expensive life is.; 3. I'm not only interested in
money.; 4. He's not a very sensitive guy, is he?; 5. Could you do that for me?; 6. We'll try and help you
find a flat.
Page 1 of 3
Introduction
to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-5-fadi-rescue
materials:
Before you listen
Activity 01
Match the words at the top to their definitions.
a. bonus b. compromise c. dump d. glum
e. nosey f. prospects g. squeeze h. weird
1. probability of success
2. something extra that is given or paid
3. inquisitive
4. apply pressure in order to extract more juice, etc.
5. strange, unnatural
6. agree by making mutual concessions
7. dirty, unpleasant place
8. gloomy, unhappy
Transcript
Johnny: Hi
Harry: Hi
Harry: Could we get two cappuccinos please?
Tony: Ok...sit down and Ill bring them over to
you.
Harry: Cheers...
Johnny: So, listen, I had a word with the IT
department about that job that Id mentioned,
and theyd like you to come in for a chat
sometime...
Harry: A chat?
Johnny: Well, yeah, you know, not really a
formal interview, just...well...like, a chat, so they
can get to know you, and see what youre like,
and stuff...
Harry: But theres no real job on offer...
Johnny: Well, no, perhaps not as yet, not
exactly...
Harry: Hmmm, Im not sure.
Johnny: Go on! What have you got to lose?
Harry: I guess youre right...
Johnny: And its a good company to work
for...lots of prospects...great bonuses! And you
get to work with me!
Harry: OK, when can I come in?
Olivia: Hi
All: Hi!
Page 2 of 3
Johnny: Tomorrow I guess...
Olivia: Tomorrow what? What are you two
planning in secret?
Harry: Olivia, you are so nosey! You always
have to know everything about everyone else....
Olivia: Just natural curiosity...
Johnny: Harrys coming to work with me!
Olivia: Thats great!
Harry: Hang on, hang on...its not definite yet...
Olivia: Im sure youll get the job! Well done!
Harry: Slow down, will you!
Olivia: That means youll be too busy to do my
website for me...
Harry: Im sure I can squeeze you in...
Olivia: I wouldnt want to overwork you!
Harry: Well see, eh?
Olivia: OK, but dont lose any sleep over it.
All: Hi Sarah!
Johnny: Hows the flat-hunting going?
Sarah: Oooooppphhhh....Im exhausted. Ive
been going round the city all day, looking at
flats.
Olivia: And no success?
Sarah: No success at all.
Harry: Whats the problem?
Sarah: Theyre all too small, or too dark, or too
far away, or too expensive, or there are weird
flatmates...
Harry: Youll have to compromise at some
point....
Sarah: Yeah, I guess so, but I dont want to live
in a complete dump, and it seems that I cant
afford much more.
Fadi: Hello all!
All: Hi Fadi!
Harry: Hows it going mate?
Fadi: Im fine here, but why are you lot all
looking so glum?
Olivia: Sarah still cant find a place to live.
Harry: Olivias fed up because I cant do her
website for her!
Johnny: Harrys not enthusiastic about working
with me!
Fadi: Great...Well, Illl just have to try and solve
all your problems, then, wont I?
After listening
Activity 02
Choose the correct word in each sentence.
Harry is going to have an informal / a formal interview.
Johnny thinks his company is a good / bad place to work.
Harry accuses Olivia of wanting to know nothing / everything about other people.
Olivia is sure that Harry wont / will get the job.
Sarah is very sad / tired.
Sarah has met some interesting / strange people.
Activity 03
Choose the correct spelling in each question.
1 department departament
2 interview interveiw
3 curiositty curiosity
4 definate definite
5 to lose (your keys) to loose
6 exhausted exausted
Page 3 of 3
Activity 04
Match the adjectives on the left with their 'extreme' equivalents on the right.
1. big a. enormous
2. cold b. exhausted
3. dirty c. fascinating
4. hungry d. filthy
5. interesting e. freezing
6. scary f. starving
7. small g. terrifying
8. tired h. tiny
Activity 05
Fill the text with a phrasal verb in each gap. Use the correct form of the verbs, and prepositions from the
boxes.
bring come get hang
sit slow work
down (x2) for in
on over to
I was sitting in the caf waiting. Annie (1) .................... at 3 oclock. She (2) .................... next to me and
the waiter (3) .................... the menu. We ordered two coffees. Annie was happy. Ive started
(4) .................... another company, she said. Im finally (5) .................... do what I have always wanted
to do. She was talking very fast. (6) .................... a minute! I said. Youre going too fast,
(7) .................... and tell me whats happened!
Answers
Activity 01
1. f; 2. a; 3. e; 4. g; 5. h; 6. b; 7. c; 8. d
Activity 02
1. an informal; 2. good; 3. everything; 4. will; 5. tired; 6. strange
Activity 03
1. department; 2. interview; 3. curiosity; 4. definite; 5. lose; 6. exhausted
Activity 04
1. a; 2. e; 3. d; 4. f; 5. c; 6. g; 7. h; 8. b
Activity 05
1. came in; 2. sat down; 3. brought over; 4. working for; 5. getting to; 6. hang on; 7. slow down
Page 1 of 3
Introduction
to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-6-hes-pest
materials:
Before you listen
Activity 01
a. energetic b. fortunately c. mate d. mess
e. negotiator f. quote g. trouble h. upset
1. a dirty or disordered condition
2. a person who arranges a transaction
3. disorder or disturbance
4. disturbed emotionally
5. friend colloquial
6. full of energy
7. state a price
8. with luck
Transcript
Olivia: Joe! Can you stop that please! Can
you please come here and sit down!
Magda: Hello there, Olivia. Whos this?
Olivia: This is Joe hes my nephew.
Magda: Nephew?
Olivia: My sisters son.
Magda: Oh! I see. Hes lovely! I love
children...
Olivia: Yeah, theyre great until you have to
look after them...
Magda: Youre looking after him?
Olivia: Yeah, just for today, fortunately. My
sister cant get a babysitter. But Joe comes to
my shop quite often. He loves it
there...unfortunately!
Magda: Whys that unfortunate?
Olivia: Because hes a pest, thats why...
Magda: Whats a pest?
Olivia: Somebody or something which makes
you angry...
Magda: No!! I dont believe it! Hes so sweet!
How old is he?
Olivia: Four, nearly five.
Fadi: Whoooaaaa! Slow down there, little man!
Whos this?
Olivia: Fadi, meet Joe.
Page 2 of 3
Magda: Hes Olivias nephew. And a sweet
little pest!
Fadi: Oh really! I didnt know you were Aunt
Olivia!
Olivia: Thank you very much Fadi. You make
me feel old. Listen, have you had a chat with
Harry yet?
Fadi: About work?
Olivia: Yeah.
Fadi: No, not yet, but Im supposed to talk to
him today. He said hed be in here later.
Olivia: Listen, though, its not true what Harry
was saying...
Fadi: About what?
Olivia: About me being upset if he cant do the
website for my shop...I dont mind if he cant do
it! He wanted far too much money. I could
never have afforded it. Now its ok, because he
thinks hes turning me down...I dont have to
offend him by saying no! A happy result all
round!
Fadi: I see...so I dont have to bail you out, after
all?
Olivia: No!
Olivia: Joe, can you stop that please? Come
over here!
Fadi: ...and here he is!
Harry: Alright mate! Alright Olivia,
Magda...whos this young man?
Olivia: My nephew, Joe.
Harry: Hello Joe!
Harry: Hes very...erm...whats the
word...energetic?
Olivia: I just call him trouble!
Harry: So, Fadi, you wanted to talk business?
Fadi: Yeah, finally...well, Ive got the all clear
from my uncle, so were on.
Harry: Great.
Fadi: But...
Harry: Theres always a but!
Fadi: Youre going to have to do us a favour
and come down on the price, mate...
Harry: What price did I quote you?
Fadi: Two thousand five hundred.
Harry: Well, seeing as youre a friend, I could
come down to two thousand four hundred, but
not less than that.
Fadi: We can offer two thousand. Thats our
top limit. We dont have a bigger budget than
that.
Harry: Come on! Youre joking!
Fadi: Sorry mate. Its two thousand, or nothing.
Harry: No way. Cant be done. Ive got to go
now...got to go and see Johnny hes offered
me a real job...bye all!
Fadi: Oh no, do you think hes really upset
now?
Olivia: I dont think upset is the word....
Fadi: We can go a bit higher actually...I was
just trying to be a tough negotiator.
Magda: A bit too tough, I think.
Olivia: You should never mix work and
friendship, anyway.
Magda: And you probably shouldnt have a
business meeting in a caf!
Fadi: Oh no. What a mess. Id better go.
Hang on..wheres my...where are my....I cant
find my mobile! Or my keys! Has anyone seen
them?
Magda: Lets look under the seats...they must
be here somewhere...
Fadi: I cant see anything.
Magda: No sign.
Olivia: How strange...hang on a minute, my
nephews been terribly quiet for the last five
minutes...whats he up to...Joe!!!
After listening
Activity 02
Choose the correct word(s) in each sentence.
1. Olivia is Joes nephew / aunt.
2. Joe is well / badly behaved.
3. Joe is four / five years old.
4. Olivia wants / doesnt want Harry to do her website.
5. Fadis uncle has agreed to pay exactly / more than two thousand pounds.
6. Olivia thinks it is a bad / good idea to do business with a friend.
Page 3 of 3
Activity 03
Complete the sentences with the names in the table. One of the names is used two times.
Fadi Harry Joe Magda Olivia
1. ....................is Olivias nephew.
2. ....................likes children.
3. Joe visits ....................s shop.
4. ....................has arranged to meet Harry at the caf.
5. ....................thinks it is a bad idea to talk business in a caf.
6. ....................leaves the caf upset.
Activity 04
Find a word in the tapescript that means the opposite of:
1. horrible 2. fast 3. young 4. earlier
5. sad 6. lazy 7. lower 8. loud
Activity 05
Fill the gaps with one of the verbs from the table.
Bail / bail Come / come Look / look
Sit / sit Slow / slow Turn / turn
1. I cant come out tonight, I have to .................... after my brother.
2. Please .................... down, I cant understand what you are trying to say.
3. .................... here for a moment and help me please.
4. I had to .................... the job offer down because I dont want to travel so far.
5. If you get into trouble, dont expect me to .................... you out!
6. .................... down here and Ill bring you a coffee.
Answers
Activity 01
1. d; 2. e; 3. g; 4. h; 5. c; 6. a; 7. f; 8. b
Activity 02
1. aunt; 2. badly; 3. four; 4. doesnt want; 5. more than; 6. bad
Activity 03
1. Joe; 2. Magda; 3. Olivia; 4. Fadi; 5. Magda; 6 Harry
Activity 04
1. lovely; 2. slow; 3. old; 4. later; 5. happy; 6. energetic; 7. higher; 8: quiet
Activity 05
1. look; 2. slow; 3. Come; 4. turn; 5. bail; 6. Sit
Page 1 of 4
Introduction
to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-7-cheer
materials:
Before you listen
Activity 01
a. architect b. avoid c. break d. degree
e. desperate f. drop by g. glum h. gossip
i. handmade j. homeless k. pop in l. relieved
m. spare n. stuck o. thief p. trained
1. a person who designs buildings
2. a person who steals
3. a person who talks about the affairs of others
4. a short period of rest
5. an academic title given by a university
6. feeling free from anxiety
7. fixed in a particular position or place
8. go to a particular place (informal)
9. having been prepared for a particular job
10. having nowhere to live
11. kept in reserve for possible use
12. made by hand rather than machine
13. needing or wanting something very much
14. stay away from someone or something
15. unhappy
16. visit someone
Page 2 of 4
Transcript
Fadi: Morning Olivia!
Olivia: Hello there!
Fadi: Do you live here?
Olivia: How do you mean?
Fadi: Its just that every time I come in here,
youre here...its like you live here or
something...
Olivia: Just taking a break thats all...
Fadi: Youre always taking a break.
Olivia: Well my shops next door, so its so easy
just to pop in here when things are quiet...
Fadi: Wheres the little thief today?
Olivia: Who? Oh! You mean my little nephew
Joe...
Fadi: Exactly...the sweet little pest!
Olivia: Hes with his mum, my sister, today,
youll be relieved to know.
Fadi: Has Harry been in today?
Olivia: He dropped by the shop before. Said he
might pop in here later for a coffee.
Fadi: I think hes angry with me, perhaps I
should avoid him for a bit.
Olivia: Whys he angry with you?
Fadi: Oh, you know, we argued about money
he was going to do that job for me...
Olivia: Oh yeah, but dont worry. Im sure hes
not really angry. And even if he is, hell soon
forget it. You know what hes like!
Fadi: Yeah, I guess so. Ill just let it drop.
Fadi and Olivia: Hi there!
Sarah and Magda: Hello
Fadi: Cheer up! Whats up with you two?
Sarah: Just the usual...
Olivia: Hows the flat-hunting going Sarah?
Sarah: Still nothing. I really need somewhere to
live. Im getting desperate. Ill end up homeless
if things dont get better!
Olivia: Oh come on, its not that bad...
Sarah: No, of course its not, but...its so difficult
to find a place...
Fadi: Im glad you showed up I wanted to talk
to you about that...
Sarah: Oh yeah?
Fadi: Yeah - Ive heard of something that might
interest you...
Sarah: Great! What is it?
Fadi: A cousin of mine has a spare room in his
house.
Olivia: A cousin of yours...how many people are
there in your family...?
Fadi: A lot!
Sarah: That sounds good...can I look at the flat?
Fadi: Ill call him now.
Olivia: Are you sure about moving in there?
Sarah: Look, I really need a place, urgently, and
itll be ok, Im sure...
Olivia: Lots of opportunities to see Fadi....
Sarah: You are such a terrible gossip!
Johnny: Theres Fadi, always stuck to that
phone, always working...or perhaps its girls!
Olivia: Actually, hes helping Sarah to find a flat.
Johnny: Oh. Ok. Good. Well hello! Whats up?
Why does everyone look so glum here?
Sarah: Im still trying to find a flat...
Magda: And I finish my degree soon, which
means I have to get a job, or go back to Poland.
Johnny: And you want to stay here in London?
Magda: Yeah, but its so difficult to get a job.
Olivia: Thats not true, there are lots of jobs
around...
Magda: Yes, but I dont want to just work in a
bar or a caf or a shop...
Olivia: Oh thanks!
Magda: Sorry! I know you work in a shop,
but...thats different..its your own shop, and you
sell such special things, those lovely handmade
shoes! But usually, you know, shopwork isnt
great..
Olivia: Tell me about it...
Sarah: But youll be a trained architect, wont
you?
Magda: Yes, exactly...but its not easy to get
work as an architect. Theres a lot of competition
here in London
Johnny: You should go to China...lots of
opportunities there right now, lots of building.
Fadi: Listen, Sarah, I spoke to my cousin and
we can go round to have a look at the flat this
afternoon if you like...
Sarah: We?
Fadi: Well, Ill go with you, show you where it
is...
Sarah: Erm, ok...Thanks!
Olivia: Told you so!
Magda: Well you might have solved your
problem then...but I might not be here much
longer!
Page 3 of 4
After listening
Activity 02
Put the events from the story below in the correct order.
1. Sarah says she is worried about not finding a flat
2. Olivia makes a joke about plumbers
3. Fadi offers to accompany Sarah to his cousins flat
4. Fadi arrives at the caf
5. Fadi phones his cousin
6. Johnny asks Magda if she wants to stay in London
Activity 03
Type one of the words from the box into the gaps to complete the sentences.. One of the words is used
two times.
by drop in so up
1. Tom just popped ................. to the caf.
2. I dropped ................. to see what was happening!
3. I guess .................!
4. Please, let it .................! I dont want to talk about it.
5. Whats .................? You look sad.
6. Cheer .................; itll be alright.
Activity 04
Match a word in the table to a word below to make collocations.
a. a break b. architect c. door d. here
e. hunting f. machine g. pest h. shoes
1. flat
2. handmade
3. little
4. next
5. stay
6. take
7. trained
8. washing
Activity 05
Choose the correct form to complete each sentence.
1. I should to avoid / avoid him for a bit.
2. He was going do / to do that job for me.
3. Hes helping Sarah to find / finding a flat.
4. I have to / must to get a job.
5. Its not easy get / to get work as an architect.
6. Id rather to be / be an architect.
Page 4 of 4
Activity 06
Complete the sentences with so or such.
1. Its ................. easy just to pop in
2. You sell ................. special things
3. Why does everyone look ................. glum?
4. You are ................. a terrible gossip!
5. We use ................. before an adjective.
6. We use ................. before an adjective + noun (or just a noun)
7. She is ................. happy when she is playing tennis
8. The book was ................. a success, they decided to make it into a film
9. They are ................. noisy children.
10. Stop being ................. noisy!
Answers
Activity 01
1. a; 2. o; 3. h; 4. c; 5. d; 6. l; 7. n; 8. k; 9. p; 10. j; 11. m; 12. i; 13. e; 14. b; 15. g; 16. f
Activity 02
4, 1, 5, 6, 2, 3
Activity 03
1. in; 2. by; 3. so; 4. drop; 5. up; 6. up
Activity 04
1. e; 2. h; 3. g; 4. c; 5. d; 6. a; 7. b; 8. f
Activity 05
1. avoid; 2. to do; 3. to find; 4. have to; 5. to get; 6. be
Activity 06
1. so; 2. such; 3. so; 4. such; 5. so; 6. such; 7. so; 8. such; 9. such; 10. so
Big City Small World Support Pack Series 1 Episode 8
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-8-ill-be-rich-three-years
The British Council, 2010 Page 1 of 4
Series 1 Episode 8 - I'll Be Rich In Three Years!
Introduction
This support pack accompanies Big City Small World Series 1 Episode 8
This support pack contains the following materials:
x Before you listen: Vocabulary match up
x Audio script
x Comprehension Task: True or false
x Vocabulary: Countable or uncountable
x Vocabulary: Opposites
x Grammar: Questions and answers
x Grammar: Rearrange the words
Before you listen
We suggest you do the vocabulary activity below before you listen. Then listen to the episode and do
the first task to check your understanding. Finally, practise some vocabulary and grammar.
Match the words and phrases in the boxes to their definitions.
1. spacious 2. a catch 3. location
4. a practice 5. to hang out 6. a mate
Definitions:
a. A place
b. To spend ones free time
c. The business of a professional person
d. Containing a lot of space
e. A friend (informal)
f. A negative aspect
Audio script
Magda: So, did you see the flat?
Sarah: Yeah, its great...really spacious, really
light, good location near a tube station and not
too expensive!
Magda: Sounds perfect. Theres got to be a
catch...
Sarah: Well, Fadis cousin is the owner...
Magda: Thats not a problem, is it?
Sarah: No...no, I dont think so...He seems ok...
Magda: You dont sound sure...
Sarah: No, really, hes ok. And I really need a
new place!
Magda: So you think youll move in?
Sarah: Yeah, certainly. Already decided....I
move in on Saturday!
Magda: Great!
Johnny: Hi! Magda and
Sarah: Hi there Johnny! Come and have a seat!
Hows it going?
Johnny: Great thanks...just waiting for Harry.
Sarah: You two are hanging out together all the
time at the moment...
Johnny: Were good mates, we get on really
well...
Magda: Isnt Harry working for you as well
now?
Johnny: No!!! Hes working with me, not for
me...theres a very big difference!
Magda: Whats that?
Johnny: Well, if he was working for me, that
means Id be his boss! But hes working with
me, which means that we work for the same
company, thats all.
Magda: Im not sure Id want to be in the same
office as you and Harry! What do you do, talk
about football all the time?
Johnny: No! We dont even work in the same
office!
Magda: Sorry, only joking...I didnt mean to be
rude, but I think its a good idea to keep friends
and work separate...
Sarah: Mmm, I agree...
Johnny: You could be right but we dont
actually work together closely. Its a big
company you know, and Harry works on the IT
side. Im at the front of the operation
searching out opportunities, winning contracts,
clinching deals...
Magda: Alright for you then!
Johnny: Ill be rich in three years...
Magda: Thats what you always say! There are
more important things in life than money, you
know!
Sarah: Magda, dont worry...not all Chinese
people are like that. We dont only care about
money!
Johnny: Maybe, but all I mean is, well, I know
where Im going...
Magda: Lucky you...I wish I did...Im about to
finish my degree and havent got anything lined
up for the future yet...
Sarah: Oh dear...nothing at all?
Magda: Well, Ive got an interview with a small
architects practice next week...
Sarah: Thats great news! Well done!
Magda: Yeah...but...Im really worried about it!
Ive never done a job interview before. Can you
give me some advice?
Sarah: Erm...I guess I could help...Ive done
one or two interviews...
Johnny: Ill tell you all you need to know! Dont
worry. Just listen to me, take my advice and
youll definitely get the job!
Magda: Oh, er, well, great...
Johnny: But I cant tell you now...got to go...
Sarah: Where are you off to in such a hurry?
Johnny: Got an appointment with the boys,
havent I? Fadi and Harry - were all playing
football this evening. Bye!
Sarah: Bye!!
Comprehension Task
True or false
Read the sentences and decide if they are true or false.
1. Sarah is going to move into Fadis flat.
2. Harry and Johnny are working for the same company.
3. Magda thinks it is a good idea for friends to work together.
4. Johnny is optimistic about his future.
5. Magda has an interview at Johnnys company.
6. Johnny is playing football later.
Vocabulary
1. Countable or uncountable?
Decide if the nouns in the box are countable or uncountable and write them in the correct column.
2. Opposites
Find the opposites of the following words in the audio script.
Dark ____________ Cheap ____________ Old ______________ Bad ____________
Polite ____________ Wrong ____________ Small ____________ Poor ____________
Countable Uncountable
Advice News
Money Place
Evening Job
Work Company
Grammar
1. Questions and answers
Match the questions with the answers:
1. Thats not a problem, is it? x x a. I guess I could help.
2. Hows it going? x x b. Got an appointment with the boys.
3. Can you give me some advice? x x c. Great thanks.
4. Where are you off to? x x d. No, I dont think so.
2. Rearrange the words
Rearrange the words to make create sentences.
a. a | new place. | need | really | I
b. in the same | office | dont | even | work
c. like | all | Chinese people | that. | Not | are
d. practice. | Ive got | an interview | small architects | with a
e. you | in such a | hurry? | are | off to | Where
Answers
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-9-aaagghhhmy-injured-l eg
Series 1 Episode 9 Aaagghh! My injured leg!
Introduction
This support pack accompanies Big City Small World Series 1 Episode 9
x Audio script
x Comprehension Task: Multiple Choice
x Comprehension Task: Who did it?
x Vocabulary: Find the word
x Grammar: Adjectives and adverbs
Before you listen
1. A crutch 2. An injury 3. To kick
4. To slip 5. A tip 6. To stare
Definitions:
a. To slide involuntarily
b. A piece of advice
c. A support to help someone walk
d. Harm that is done to a part of the body
e. To look at somebody or something in an intense way
f. To strike something with the foot
Audio script
Johnny: Oucchh!! Be careful!
Fadi: All right, all right...Im trying..youre heavy!
Harry: Hell need his crutch...hang on...here you
go...ok...can you sit down now?
Johnny: Yeah...I think so.
Olivia: Oh my goodness!! What has happened?
Sarah: Johnny! What have you done to your
leg?
Johnny: Sporting injury. Sarah: Oh no! What
happened?
Johnny: Well, we were playing football...me
and the boys...
Harry/Fadi: We were...thats right...
Johnny: And I was Sun Jihai, from Manchester
City...
Harry: I was Drogba, from Chelsea...
Fadi: And I was David Beckham, of course...
Sarah: So you were playing football, and
Johnny got injured?
Harry/Johnny/Fadi: Ermm...
Olivia: Did someone kick him?
Fadi: No... Sarah: Did he fall over?
Harry: Not exactly... Olivia: Well what happened
then?
Fadi: It wasnt really a sporting injury...
Sarah: Go on! Johnny: It was kind of a sporting
injury...
Fadi: But wed actually finished playing
football...
Harry: And we decided to go to the pub for a
drink...
Fadi: And as we were walking there...
Johnny: I slipped and fell over.
Olivia/Sarah: What???
Olivia: Thats ridiculous!
Sarah: Thats hilarious!
Johnny: Hmmpph. Thank you very much. Here
comes Magda, at least shell give me some
sympathy...hi Magda!
Magda: Hi Johnny...oh dear! What happened to
your leg?
Johnny: Long story...dont really want to talk
about it...
Olivia: Really Magda, its better if you dont
know.
Sarah: Just dont ask! Well tell you later...dont
worry!
Magda: Erm, ok then...sure..listen, Johnny, I
was hoping you were going to give me some
interview advice...do you remember? I have an
important interview next week...
Johnny: Oh sure, yeah, I remember. Yes, good
idea Ill give you some tips. Itll help take my
mind off this injury...So, interviews, well, first
thing make sure you dress smartly.
Magda: How do you mean smartly?
Johnny: Well, wear a suit...a grey one...
Magda: A womans suit?
Johnny: Yeah.you know the kind of thing, skirt
and a jacket...
Magda: Ok...
Sarah: Erm, Im not sure thats always right,
though...it depends on the company, surely.
Magda: How do you mean?
Sarah: Well, if youre going to a company where
everybody wears smart suits like the kind of
people Johnny works with then, yeah, you
should wear a suit. But if the company youre
applying to isnt the kind of company where
everyone wears suits all the time...
Olivia: Where people dress more casually...
Sarah: Exactly...you dont want to look
overdressed, too formal...
Magda: No, I guess not...
Olivia: You just need to look like you fit in!
Johnny: Yeah, thats good advice. But you
have to know first, and thats the second thing I
wanted to say research the company! Find out
as much about them as you can! Dont let them
ask all the questions...
Sarah: Yes, thats right they always give you
a chance to ask a question, so ask an intelligent
question!
Johnny: Just one or two questions are enough,
no more than that.
Sarah: Yeah, to make you sound interested,
and look interested...
Johnny: Precisely look interested. Body
language. Its really important. Make sure you
look the interviewers in the eyes....
Sarah: But dont stare at them!
Magda: No.
Johnny: But show youre confident, and you
know what youre talking about...
Magda: Thats the problem...Im not sure that I
do!
Johnny: Oh, and dont be late for the interview!
Plan to get there early.
Magda: So much advice, so much to think
about...its making me more nervous, not less!
Olivia: Oh dear...
Sarah: Dont worry, thats the important thing.
Relax and enjoy it! Whats that?
Olivia: Oh, I forgot to tell you all my nephew
Joe is here again today...
Fadi: I remember Joe...hes the little boy whos
always exactly!
Olivia: Joe! Slow down please! Joe! Please be
careful!
Magda: Hes so sweet...
Johnny: Hes sweet as long as he doesnt
come near my...aaaagghhhh!!!!...my injured leg!!
Comprehension Task 1
1. Multiple Choice
Read the beginnings of the sentences and choose the right way to finish them.
1. Johnny injured his leg...
a. playing football.
b. falling over.
c. in the pub.
2. Johnny thinks Magda should...
a. wear a dress.
b. wear trousers and a jacket.
c. wear a skirt and a jacket.
3. Sarah thinks it is important for Magda....
a. not to look too formal.
b. to look formal.
c. to dress casually.
4. Johnny thinks it is important for Magda...
a. to avoid looking her interviewers
in the eyes.
b. to stare at her interviewers.
c. to look her interviewers in the
eyes.
5. Sarah and Johnny agree that it is...
a. important to ask one or two
questions.
b. important to ask a lot of
questions.
c. important not to ask any
questions.
6. So much advice is...
a. helping Magda.
b. making Magda nervous.
c. confusing Magda.
2. Who did it? Magda Harry Sarah Johnny - Fadi
Select the right names to make the sentences true.
1. __________ has an injury.
2. __________ was pretending to be a Chelsea player.
3. __________ was pretending to be Beckham.
4. __________ asks for advice.
5. __________ thinks Magda should enjoy her interview.
6. __________ thinks Joe is sweet.
Vocabulary
Find the words from the episode that mean the same as the words in the boxes below.
Find the word that means
the same as:
Your answer:
1. type
2. very funny
3. business
4. find out about
5. your sisters son
6. hurt
Grammar
Adjectives and adverbs
Put the words from the box into the correct column.
Answers
Adjectives Adverbs
Heavy Carefully
Smartly Exactly
Casually Formal
Careful Confident
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-10-youll-be-shoo
Series 1 Episode 10 - You'll be a shoo-in!
Introduction
This support pack accompanies: Big City Small World Series 1 Episode 10
x Audio script
x Comprehension Task: True or false
x Vocabulary: Common expressions
x Grammar: Prepositions
x Grammar: Gerunds and infinitives
x Grammar: Word order
Before you listen
1. workmate 2. plaster 3. busy
4. punctual 5. otherwise 6. interview
Definitions:
a. A hardened material used to cover broken bones in order to help them heal
b. A meeting where you are asked questions to find out if you are the right person for a job
c. Arriving on time
d. A person who you work with
e. Under other circumstances
f. Having a lot of things to do
Audio script
Olivia: Hows the leg Johnny?
Johnny: A bit better thanks...Ive got the plaster
off it now, but I still need the crutch.
Olivia: Good to hear...
Johnny: Your nephew young Joe didnt
help...hes not here today is he? I need to
recover!
Olivia: No, dont worry...Im not looking after
him today. Hes with my sister.
Harry: Hello there!
Olivia: Hi Harry!
Johnny: Hi there workmate!
Olivia: Hows it going, Harry?
Harry: Erm...not bad...
Olivia: You dont sound so sure...
Harry: No, really, everythings fine...
Johnny: Everything ok at work? I dont get to
see you much...
Harry: Well, Im always busy, you know...
Johnny: Oh yeah, I know...busy busy busy.
Thats me, too! Got to go right now...just to the
doctors though, hes having another look at my
leg, making sure its ok...
Olivia: Bye then Johnny! Hope it goes well!
Johnny: Me too! Whoops.......Magda! Watch
out!
Magda: Oh, sorry Johnny!
Johnny: Owwww!
All: Oh no!
Magda: Oh! I stepped on your toe!
Johnny: Dont worry...never mind...nothing
serious...Ill get better! Good job Im going to the
doctors right now! Bye!
Magda: Oh no! I feel so bad!
Harry: Dont worry about it, hes not really that
bad! He hasnt broken any bones or anything.
Olivia: Hes just a bit of an actor, thats all...
Harry: Tell me about it...hes terrible at work! I
try and avoid him...
Olivia: Oh no! Why?
Harry: He just talks about his work all the time,
about how important he is, and how rich hes
going to be...it gets boring...
Olivia: But are you getting on with him ok,
otherwise?
Harry: Yeah, I guess so...they really make me
work hard for my money though...
Olivia: Do you think youll stay with that job?
Harry: For a bit, I guess. Ill have to see how it
goes, long term...
Magda: Isnt anyone going to ask about my
interview?!
Olivia: Oh yes...sorry! Of course..so, how did it
go?
Magda: Im not sure...ok I think...its difficult to
say...
Harry: What questions did they ask you?
Magda: The usual ones...why I want this job,
what I can bring to their company...
Olivia: Did you answer all the questions?
Magda: Sure...yes.
Harry: Did you ask a question?
Magda: Yes...I only got a chance to ask one, so
I asked them how far Id be free to follow my
own projects as part of the job.
Olivia: Good question.
Harry: What did you wear?
Magda: A suit, like Johnny told me to! Black
jacket, trousers...
Olivia: Did you arrive on time?
Magda: I was perfectly punctual!
Harry: Youll be a shoo-in!
Magda: Sorry? A what?
Harry: A shoo-in! It means youre certain to get
the job!
Magda: Well, I hope so.......Oh no! Its
them...theyll be calling to tell me if I got the job
or not....
Comprehension Task
Decide whether these statements are true or false.
1. Johnny doesnt need to use a crutch now
2. Joe is with his mother
3. Johnny is going to see his doctor
4. Harry thinks Johnny is important
5. Magda asked a question at her interview
6. Magda arrived late for her interview
Vocabulary
Common Expressions:
Match the two parts of these common expressions.
1. Dont x x a. it going?
2.

Hello x x b. serious!
3.

Hows x x c. worry!
4. Me x x d. mind!
5.

Never x x e. there!
6. Nothing x x f. too!
Grammar 1
Prepositions:
Complete the sentences with a preposition from the box.
You will need to use some prepositions twice.
1. Im not looking _________ my nephew today.
2. Ill see you later _________ work.
3. The doctor is having a look _________ his leg.
4. She accidentally stepped _________ his toe!
5. He talks _________ work all the time, its boring
6. Are you going to ask _________ the interview?
7. She arrived _________ time for the interview.
Grammar 2
Gerunds and infinitives:
Choose the correct option.
1. I need _________ from my operation.
a. to recover
b. recover
c. recovering
2. I dont get _________ you much.
a. to see
b. see
c. seeing
3. They make me _________ hard.
a. to work
b. work
c. working
4. Its difficult _________ how the interview went.
a. to say
b. say
c. saying
at
after
about
on
Grammar 3
Word order
Put the word in bold in the correct place in the sentence.
1. still I need to use the crutch.
2. much I dont get to see you.
3. right Im going to the doctors now.
4. only I got a chance to ask one question.
Answers
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-11-im-architect
Series 1 Episode 11 - I'm an architect!
Introduction
x Audio script
x Comprehension Task: Select the true sentence
x Vocabulary: Words related to work
x Grammar: Verbs fill in the gaps with the correct form of the verbs
x Grammar: Prepositions
Before you listen
1. experience 2. intrusive 3. a trial
4. salary 5. mention 6. stage
Definitions:
a. A test
Were having ___________ tomorrow and if its ok well go ahead.
b. Money earned from working
Her ___________ is low; shes never got any money.
c. Knowledge you learn from doing or seeing things
I have got a lot of ___________ in looking after children because Ive got seven younger
sisters!
d. A single step in a process
The first ___________ of the game is easy then the later ones get gradually more difficult.
e. Coming without an invitation
My sister is ___________. She comes into my room without knocking!
f. To refer briefly to something
Dont ___________ her new glasses! She hates them.
Audio script
Magda: (talking into phone)
Sookhmm...yeah! Thats great news!
Olivia: So? Did you get the job?
Magda: Yes!!!
All: Hooray!! Fantastic! Well done!!
Magda: But...
Harry: Theres always a but...
Magda: Its only on a trial basis...just for a
month.
Harry: Ok, thats pretty normal actually. Most
companies do that.
Olivia: But they are paying you, yes?
Magda: Oh yes, the salary isnt bad. Its not an
internship.
Harry: I did internships for ages...had to work
for a month to get experience no pay! and
then I never got offered the real job at the end.
Like now! Im doing this work for Johnnys
company they want me to work at weekends
too Saturdays and Sundays with no extra
money!
Olivia: Thats terrible!
Harry: I dont know what to do...I want to say
no, but Im afraid Ill lose the job...
Olivia: Youll have to think carefully about it!
Magda: Or youll be trying to do an internship
again!!! Only joking! It can be important to do an
internship if you want to get experience things
to put on your CV...
Harry: Yeah, I guess youre right, but Im past
that stage...Ive got lots of experience now.
Magda: Im really worried though, about my first
day, really nervous. I might be terrible!
Olivia: Dont worry Magda, youll be great.
Show them how good you are in the first month
and theyll be offering you more money by the
second month!
Magda: Lets hope so!
Harry: What are you going to be doing exactly?
Magda: Well, its a lot of admin work... But I do
get a chance to work with the senior partners on
some designs.
Harry: Great...What is it you do again?
Olivia: Harry! How come you always forget this
stuff?
Magda: Architecture! Im an architect! I design
buildings!
Harry: Oh yeah, right, of course...
Sarah: Shes a good one too, Harry Ive seen
some of her drawings. I keep on telling her that
she should go to China there are lots of
opportunities there at the moment.
Magda: Maybe, one day. Thatd be really
interesting...How are you, Sarah?
Sarah: OK...
Harry: Hows the new flat?
Sarah: Thats the problem...
Olivia: Oh no! Youve only just moved in!
Magda: I thought the flat was great...
Sarah: The flat is nice, but the problem is the
landlord...
Olivia: Isnt that Fadis cousin?
Sarah: Yes, exactly...but hes really intrusive.
Magda: Intrusive?
Sarah: He comes round all the time, wants to
know everything about me. I think that if I pay
rent, thats it, I shouldnt have to tell him
anything else.
Olivia: I see...thats not on, is it? Have you
mentioned it to Fadi?
Sarah: No, I dont know how to. He was so kind
helping me get the place. I dont want to seem
rude.
Olivia: Would you like me to have a word with
him?
Sarah: Could you? Thatd be really great. Id
really appreciate it.
Olivia: Ill say something the next time I see
him! Promise!
Comprehension Task
Choose the correct verb in each sentence
1. Magda got / didnt get the job.
2. The salary is / isnt good.
3. Harry usually remembers / forgets peoples jobs.
4. Sarah has recently bought / rented a new flat.
5. Fadis cousin wants to talk / know about Sarah.
6. Sarah receives / pays rent.
7. Olivia offers / refuses to speak to Fadi.
8. Olivia will see / phone Fadi.
Vocabulary
Words related to work
Complete the text using the words from the box.
Im looking for a new __________
1
as an __________
2
. Im not
happy with the __________
3
I __________
4
for now. They dont
value my __________
5
and they dont offer me any __________
6
.
My __________
7
is not bad but I think I should be __________
8
more. I am going to send my __________
9
to a few places and see
what happens.
architect experience
salary job earning
CV work company
opportunities
Grammar 1
Verbs
Fill the gaps with a verb from the box. Use the correct form of the verb.
1. Did you __________ the job?
to think to pay
to move to get (x2)
to lose to appreciate
to help to say
to see
2. Im afraid Ill __________ my job if I am late again this week.
3. Ive __________ lots of experience in accounting.
4. Youll have to __________ carefully.
5. Are they __________ you a good salary?
6. Ive __________ some of her drawings, theyre great.
7. Youve only just __________ in to your new flat!
8. He was so kind __________ me find a flat.
9. Id really __________ it if you could help me.
10. Ill __________ something to him when I see him.
Grammar 2
Prepositions
Complete the sentences with an appropriate preposition
1. You are working here ______ a trial basis
2. I need to think carefully ______ it before I give you my answer
3. I have a chance to work ______ the senior partners
4. We are working ______ some designs for a new bridge
5. He comes ______ to my place every day
6. Shall I have a word ______ him?
Answers


http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-1-episode-12-good-news-bad-news



Series 1 Episode 12 - Good News & Bad News
Introduction
Before you listen: Vocabulary match up
Audio script
Comprehension Task: Select the true sentence
Vocabulary: Adjective noun collocations
Vocabulary: Colloquial expressions
Grammar: Adjective endings ed or -ing
Grammar: Articles

Before you listen


1. a distinction
(noun)
2. proper
(adjective)
3. to miss someone
(verb)
4. a decision
(noun)
5. permanent
(adjective)
6. a row (noun)

Definitions:
a. A verbal argument or disagreement
We had ________ about whose turn it was to clean the kitchen.
b. Long lasting, not temporary
After having six temporary jobs she was delighted to get a ________ one.
c. Appropriate, conforming, correct
Now I am getting a ________ salary instead of just some pocket money.
d. Marked superiority
She was an excellent student so it wasnt a surprise to hear that she had got ________ in her exam.
e. To feel sorry about the absence of somebody or something
She ________ her family a lot when she moved away to another town.
f. a judgement
It was a difficult ________ to make but she had to choose a winner.




Audio script
Olivia: Hi Magda! How was your first day?
Magda: Fantastic!
Olivia: Really!? Im amazed...
Sarah: Yeah, you were so worried about your new
job...
Magda: Well, I had some good news...
Olivia: Yeah? What?
All: Hi Johnny!
Johnny: Hi! Ive got some good news...
Sarah: Makes two of you then!
Johnny: At least I think its good news...Im not
really sure...
Olivia: Tell us!
Magda: Cant I tell you my good news first?
Sarah: Wow, this is getting complicated...and Im
afraid Ive only got some bad news...
Magda: Oh no...What a shame! Whats the problem?
Olivia: Yeah, go on, bad news first, then the good
news will cheer us up!
Sarah: OK, well, I had a row with my landlord, finally!
And Im moving out...
Magda: Oh no!
Sarah: Oh yes! So, I need a new flat...
Olivia: Again!!!
Magda: Oh dear...
Olivia: What a shame. I hoped it was going to work
out...
Sarah: Yeah, but I didnt get on with the landlord.
Magda: Have you told Fadi yet?
Sarah: No...Im worried what he might think. The
landlord is his cousin, after all...
Olivia: Well, lets just wait until he comes in. I was
going to tell him you werent happy now Ill tell him
youre leaving!
Magda: Is it good news time yet?
Sarah: Yes! Go on! Whats your good news?
Magda: Ive been offered a job!
Johnny: Me too!
Olivia: Hang on! Wait a minute! Youve already got a
job, havent you Magda?
Sarah: And you have too, Johnny, havent you? You
talk about it all the time...
Magda/Johnny: But...
Magda: Go on...!
Johnny: No, you first, please...
Magda: Ive been offered a permanent job, with the
same company! Ill be a proper architect!
Olivia: Wow! Thats fantastic!
Magda: But...
Olivia: Theres always a but...
Magda: I have to get a distinction in my masters
degree...
Sarah: Phew...thats not easy...
Magda: No, but Im doing well...
Olivia: Fingers crossed then...
Sarah: Lets hope!
Johnny: Thats amazing Ive got the same news!
Olivia: What? Youre going to be an architect?
Johnny: No!
Sarah: Youre doing a masters degree?
Johnny: No!
Magda: What then?
Johnny: A job...Ive been offered a new job!
Olivia: Yes, you said...
Johnny: And theres a but...
Olivia: I told you there was always a but...
Johnny: Its not in London...
Olivia: Youd have to leave...
Johnny: Yeah...
Olivia: Well, where is it? New York?
Johnny: No...
Magda: Paris? Berlin? Where?
Johnny: Its back in China.
Sarah: Oh...Beijing? Shanghai?
Johnny: No, its in Chongqing.
Olivia: Where?
Johnny: Chongqing!
Magda:: Wheres that?




Sarah: Southwest China. Its a really interesting
place...growing really quickly...
Johnny: Yeah, its a great opportunity...
Olivia: But?
Johnny: But I love it here so much. Im not sure I
want to go back to China yet Id miss all my
friends...
Olivia: Youll have to choose!
Sarah: Its big decision time! Oh no...here comes
Fadi....and Harry.
All: Hi Fadi! Hi Harry!
Fadi: Hows it going everyone?
Olivia: Dont ask...
Magda: Ive been offered a new job, a really good
job if I get a good degree!
Johnny: Ive been offered a new job, a really good
job but I have to go back to China!
Harry: Wow! Busy day everyones having...Ive got
some news too...
Olivia: Oh no...
Harry: Oh yes Ive been sacked!
Magda: Sacked?
Harry: Yes Ive lost my job, been made redundant,
unemployed, no longer working!
Magda: Oh no!
Harry: Dont worry I dont care. I hated that job
anyway. Ill soon find another job. A man with my
skills and abilities is always in demand!
Johnny: Somebody from my company sacked you?
Why?
Harry: I told them I wasnt going to work at the
weekend Saturdays and Sundays. If I worked on
Saturday and Sunday, when could I play football!?
So I said no, and they said goodbye...
Magda: What will you do now?
Harry: I have absolutely no idea! The future is an
open book...
Sarah: Very poetic!
Fadi: Well Sarah, at least youre ok...with your new
flat and everything...
Sarah: Oh...er...well...
Olivia: Actually, I wanted to talk to you about
that...cousin
Fadi: You wanted to talk to me?
Olivia: (whispering) Yeah, well, you see, Sarahs a
bit embarrassed...
Fadi: (whispering) Whats up?
Olivia: She wants to leave the new flat...she doesnt
get on well with the landlord...
Fadi: My cousin.
Olivia: Yes, your cousin.
Fadi: Im not surprised!
Olivia: Eh?
Fadi: I said Im not surprised! My cousins horrible! I
cant stand him!
Olivia: (laughs) Oh thats a relief...
Fadi: Sarah Im sorry if I got you involved with my
cousin...I thought you were desperate for a place to
live...I know my cousins horrible!
Sarah: Oh, never mind Fadi thanks for trying to
help anyway...Now I need a new place to live
though...
Magda: If I get this job, Ill have more money we
could get a place together...
Sarah: Thatd be great...
Johnny: If I take the job in China, Ill have to leave
my flat...
Sarah: And we could move in...
Olivia: What a lot of ifs...
Sarah: Its exciting...
Magda: But also worrying...
Johnny: And confusing...
Harry: And thats not all...
Fadi: What?
Harry: Ive just been speaking to the owner of the
caf...
Olivia: And?
Harry: Theyre closing down next week!
All: What!!?? Ohthats terribleno....what are we
all going to do??




Comprehension Task
True or false
Decide whether these statements are true or false:
1. If Magda does well in her degree she will get a permanent job.
2. Johnny is moving to Shanghai.
3. Fadi doesnt like his cousin.
4. Harry has been offered a permanent job.
5. Magda suggests that she and Sarah share a flat.
6. The caf is going to close down.
Vocabulary 1
Adjective + noun collocations

Match the halves to make common adjective + noun collocations

First degree
Good week
Permanent decision
Master's day
Big job
Next news

Vocabulary 2
Colloquial expressions

Complete the colloquial expressions with a word from the box.

1. What a __________
2. Cheer __________
3. Fingers __________
4. Decision __________
5. Dont __________
6. Im __________

crossed
time
worry
up
sorry
shame




Grammar 1
Adjective endings: -ed and ing

Complete the gaps with the correct adjective

1. Something __________ happened to me today. (amazed / amazing)
2. Try not to get too __________ about the exam. (worried / worrying)
3. It was an __________ situation. (embarrassed / embarrassing)
4. She was __________ to hear the news. (surprised / surprising)
5. What an __________ plan! (excited / exciting)
6. We are __________ because there are too many options. (confused / confusing)
7. Is the film __________? (bored / boring)
8. The book was much more __________.(interested / interesting)

Grammar 2
Articles
Fill in the gaps with a, an, the or - (no article)
1. Ive had ______ row with my boyfriend.
2. I dont get on with ______ landlord.
3. Im going to be ______ architect.
4. The job is in ______ China.
5. Thats ______ excellent news.
6. I hated ______ job so I left.

Answers

http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-1-fingers-crossed-0
Series 2 Episode 1 - Fingers Crossed
Introduction
This support pack accompanies:
x Audio script
x Comprehension Task
x Grammar Task: verb forms
x Vocabulary Task: phrasal verbs
Before you listen
1. grumpy 2. soap opera 3. degree
4. demolish 5. cheer up 6. compensation
Definitions:
a. Destroy (a building)
b. Payment for damages caused
c. Miserable and moody
d. A TV series with a continuing storyline
e. Make oneself or somebody else happy
f. A university qualification
Audio script
Olivia: Hey! Good to see you again!
Sarah/Magda: Hey! You too!
Harry: Hello Sarah, hi Magda....
Sarah: How are you Olivia? Harry! Great to
see you too...
Olivia: Fine, fine thanks, all well. Tony!?
Could we have some coffees over here please?
Tony: Ok, ok...hold on...Im rushed off my feet
here...
Harry: Hes always so miserable, so grumpy
that guy....
Olivia: Hes not really, its just his way...
Harry: Ill believe you then...his coffees always
good!
Olivia: So, how are you two getting on?
Magda: Fine. Its great, weve got this really
nice flat...
Sarah: We moved into Harrys old place...
Olivia: Yeah, I remember. Hows it going? No
problems? Still friends? Its not always easy
sharing a flat...
Sarah/Magda: No, no problems...
Sarah: except she leaves the top off the
toothpaste tube
Magda: ...and she spends too much time
watching soap operas on TV!
Sarah: No, really, were getting along fine.
Magda: The only problem is the rent...
Sarah: Its really expensive.
Magda: I still need to find that proper job, and
that depends on me getting the right degree
results...
Olivia: Yeah, I remember you telling me.
When will you find out?
Magda: Next week.
Olivia: Fingers crossed, then!
Magda: Fingers what?
Olivia: Crossed. Its what we say when we
hope for something good to happen.
Magda: Oh, ok...fingers crossed!
Olivia: Has anybody heard from Johnny?
Sarah?
Sarah: Just because were both Chinese
doesnt mean we keep in touch all the time, you
know! There are a lot of people in China!
(laughs)
Olivia: Of course...sorry...I just thought...
Sarah: He was more of a friend of yours,
wasnt he Harry?
Harry: Yeah, were good mates. I hear from
him all the time.
Sarah: Hows he doing?
Harry: Hes still in Chongqing with his new job.
He says its really interesting, really exciting, but
he misses us and he wants to come back to
London!
Magda: Fingers crossed!
Sarah: And how about you Harry? What are
you up to? Are you still job hunting?
Harry: Yeah, thats right. Im still looking for a
new job.
Magda: Any luck?
Harry: I havent found anything yet, but Ive got
a few possibilities. I really liked not working at
first, I really enjoyed the free time, but now
well, I need the money, and also well, I just
get bored if I havent got something to do all the
time.
Magda: Wheres Fadi, Olivia? I havent seen
him for ages.
Olivia: Why ask me?
Magda: I thought youd know...you know,
youre like, good friends, arent you?
Olivia: Yes, thats exactly what we are. Good
friends. Nothing more.
Magda: I wasnt suggesting anything! (laughs)
Olivia: I hope not! Anyway, hes away at the
moment, gone to visit his family. Hell be back
next week.
Tony: Here you are...four coffees...
All: Thanks Tony!
Olivia: Cheer up Tony.
Harry: Yeah...it can only get worse...!
Tony: It might get worse! This caf might be
closing down soon, so then youll all have to find
somewhere else to go.
All: Oh no....
Olivia: Whats this all about, Tony?
Tony: A big property company - theyre
building new luxury flats, just behind here. They
want to get rid of these old buildings.
Magda: Get rid of?
Tony: Yeah...knock them down. Demolish
them.
All: Oh no, thats terrible.
Tony: It is terrible! Ive worked here for ages. I
mean, theyre offering me compensation, but I
want to stay here.
Olivia: Oh no...Ive just realised...perhaps that
means my shops affected too...
Tony: It might be. Your shops only next
door...
Olivia: They cant knock my shop down! We
must do something...
Comprehension Task
Listen to the episode and answer the questions. Which characters are the questions referring to?
Magda, Sarah, Harry, Fadi, Johnny or Olivia?
1. Who thinks Tony makes good coffee?
2. Who is sharing a flat with Magda?
3. Who is waiting for exam results?
4. Who is in Chongqing?
5. Who is visiting their family?
6. Who has a shop next door to the caf?
Grammar Task
Choose the correct verb form in each sentence.
1. I still need find / to find that proper job.
2. He wants come / to come back to London!
3. It might get / to get worse!
4. They want get rid of / to get rid of these old buildings.
5. But I want stay / to stay here.
6. It might be / to be.
7. They cant knock / to knock my shop down!
8. We must do / to do something...
Vocabulary Task
Match the phrasal verbs from the listening with the definitions.
1. To hold on a. To destroy something or to throw it in the
bin
2. To keep in touch with
somebody
b. To stop a business (etc) from functioning
3. To hear from somebody. c. To receive news from somebody
4. To be up to something d. To maintain contact with somebody
5. To look for something e. To wait
6. To be away f. To try to find something
7. To close (something)
down
g. To be doing something that you shouldnt
be doing
8. To get rid of (something) h. To be absent from your usual place (e.g. on
holiday)
Answers


http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-2-hello-carlos-0



Series 2 Episode 1 Hello Carlos!
Introduction
Before you listen: Vocabulary match up
Audio script
Comprehension Task
Grammar Task: Countable or uncountable nouns
Grammar Task: Order the sentences
Vocabulary Task: Word search

Before you listen


1. menu 2. overhear 3. caterer 4. actually
5. demolish 6. lose 7. research 8. compensation

Definitions:
a. To be unable to find something
b. Really
c. Study about a subject
d. Person (or company) who provides food and drink
e. A list of food available at a restaurant
f. Destroy (a building)
g. Payment for damages caused
h. To hear something that is not for your ears




Audio script
Olivia: Oh no! I dont understand how this can
happen!
Tony: Told you so.
Sarah: Hi Olivia! Whats the problem?
Carlos: Excuse me...
Olivia: Its not just here, not just the caf...
Sarah: What do you mean?
Tony: Told you so.
Olivia: Its true!
Sarah: What is?
Olivia: They want to knock down my shop, as
well as the caf!
Sarah: Demolish it? Get rid of it completely?
Olivia: Yes
Tony: Told you so.
Sarah: Oh no!
Olivia: Thats what I keep saying...
Carlos: Excuse me!
Tony: Yes?
Carlos: Could I have something to eat please,
and a cup of tea?
Tony: Sure, heres a menu, go and take a seat
somewhere...
Sarah: Oh dear...lets go and sit down theres
Harry over there, lets sit with him.
Harry: Hello there. Magdas on her way. I think
we need to have a plan...
Olivia: Yeah, but what can we do?
All: Hey Magda! Hi! Were over here! Come and
sit down!
Magda: Hello everyone! Whats the
matter? Why does everyone look so sad?
Harry: The caf is going to close...
Sarah: ...and Olivias shop too!
Magda: Why? Oh - the property company...
theyre building new flats... I remember now...
Harry: Thats right and they want to demolish
this place, and Olivias shop next door.
Olivia: Theyre offering us compensation...
Magda: Compensation?
Sarah: Money...
Olivia: But its not enough. I want to keep my
shop...
Sarah: Yes, and I want to keep this caf open...
theres nowhere else where we can all meet.
All: Yes?
Carlos: I couldnt help overhearing your
conversation...
Magda: Were you listening to us?
Carlos: No, sorry, I wasnt listening, I just heard
what you were talking about...
Olivia: Is this the first time youve been here?
Carlos: Well, yes it is, actually...
Harry: Itll probably be the last...
Carlos: Well, yes, I know...thats what I wanted
to say...
Sarah: What?
Carlos: Im afraid I work for the company, the
building company.
Olivia: The company who want to knock down
my shop?
Harry: And our favourite caf?
Carlos: Im afraid so, yes...
Olivia: Can you stop them?
Carlos: Well, no, Im not sure about that...
Sarah: What do you do for the company?




Carlos: Well, thats the problem; Im not one of
their top managers, or anything like that...
Harry: Thats a shame.
Carlos: Im just the caterer.
Magda: Caterer?
Carlos: Yes, I make food for them.
Harry: Hang on a minute, I dont
understand...youre the caterer...you make
food...
Carlos: Yes, thats right. Im a chef, actually. Or
at least thats what Id like to be...
Harry: But youve just come in here to get
food...
Carlos: Oh yeah...well, you see, the problem is,
I dont really like the food I have to cook for
other people. I prefer to try new things so I
came in here!
Harry: Right...
Olivia: Can you help us?
Carlos: Im not sure what I can do...I dont really
want to lose my job...
Sarah: No...I guess not but if you work for the
building company, you could do some research
for us...
Carlos: Research? How do you mean?
Sarah: You could find out some information for
us...
Carlos: Erm, well, ok, I mean, if I can...Id like to
help you!
Olivia: Great! Lets see what we can do... we
can save this place!

Comprehension Task
True or false
Listen to the episode and then decide whether these statements are true or false.
1. Magda arrives in the caf after Sarah.
2. The property company doesn't want to demolish Olivia's shop.
3. The property company have offered to pay the shop owners money.
4. Carlos orders a snack and a coffee.
5. Carlos is a top manager with the property company.
6. Carlos is afraid of losing his job.
7. Sarah doesnt want Carlos to get information for them.




Language Task
Grammar
Fill in the table
Decide whether the nouns on the left are countable or uncountable. Write them in the correct column.

information
research
problem
tea
seat
plan
compensation
food
money
cup
flat

Countable Uncountable

Grammar
Order the words
Put the words into the correct order to make sentences from the recording.

1. can understand happen I this dont how _____________________________________

2. think have a I plan need we to _____________________________________

3. look everyone Why sad does so? _____________________________________

4. else we meet can Theres all nowhere _____________________________________

5. want I really job dont to my lose _____________________________________

6. find You out information could for some us _____________________________________




Vocabulary Task
Word Search
Find eighteen four-letter verbs from the recording.

C T Z E D W C K X W M L L M R
E O V Z E E A W S M G O L A B
R A O M G A E N P P S D E K V
H E O K F H J N T E Q Y T E F
O C F S P S H I N S E A A B X
P H E L P B S T O P K E S U N
Y R I Z O U E B T D A V T L M
B S N D S I H M Z V T A A J Q
N P Z D I H P N T Q F S L U M
U V H M Q V R L T C E K K V A
C F I C D F X G U K M O D Q J
T D B K A N F Y I M O N M S U
J O E S B T I L B Q L K R O W
P E T E E M Z F V A N F L S B
P Z C Z W E W Z I L I D L S F

_______________________________________________________
Answers

They are: tell, like, help, cook, make, lose, work, find, save, come, stop, want, talk, keep,
meet, need, take and have.


http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-3-harrys-new-girlfriend


Series 2 Episode 3
Harry's New Girlfriend
Introduction
Before you listen
Audio script
Comprehension Task
Vocabulary Task
Grammar Task

Before you listen
We suggest you do the vocabulary activity below before you listen. Then listen to the episode and do the first
task to check your understanding. Finally, practise some vocabulary and grammar.

Match the words and phrases in the boxes to the definitions.

1. space 2. campaign 3. journalist 4. serious
5. banner 6. treat 7. regulars 8. interior design

Definitions:

a. important, not trivial
b. a long poster, usually made of cloth, with a slogan
c. reporter
d. the people who often go to a restaurant, caf, shop, etc
e. a planned series of events designed to change something
f. the amount of room in an area
g. the art of decorating the inside of a building such as a house or office
h. something special that you buy or make for someone




Audio script
Fadi: Hello Tony! How are you?
Tony: Alright, I suppose.
Fadi: Good to hear you sounding so happy! Hey,
where is everyone?
Tony: Everyone who?
Fadi: You know, the regulars Olivia, Sarah,
Harry, Magda...
Tony: Dont know. Theyll probably come in
sooner or later. Theyre always here.
Fadi: Hello!
Bindyu: Oh. Er, hello.
Fadi: I havent seen you in here before.
Bindyu: No. I havent been in here before.
Fadi: Thats probably why then!
Bindyu: Er, I dont understand...
Fadi: Er, ok, well, never mind then. Listen, can I
get you a drink? Would you like a coffee or
something?
Bindyu: Erm, well, thats very kind of you, but no
thanks.
Fadi: Go on! Have something! My treat! You cant
sit here not eating or drinking anything.
Bindyu: Actually, Im waiting for my boyfriend.
Fadi: Oh. Late, is he?
Bindyu: Well, only a little bit...
Fadi: You can talk to me if he doesnt show up!
Harry: Hello there!
Fadi / Bindyu: Hi!
Harry: I see you two have already met each
other...
Bindyu: Oh no, not really...
Fadi: No, I was just being polite, yknow...
Harry: Sure! Fadi, let me introduce Bindyu.
Fadi: Nice to meet you.
Bindyu: Nice to meet you.
Harry: Bindyus my girlfriend.
Fadi: Oh, er. Great! How long have you been
together?
Bindyu: Oh, not long, only a couple of weeks.
Fadi: You didnt tell me you had a new girlfriend,
Harry!
Harry: Well, I havent seen you for a few weeks.
Fadi: No, of course. I was visiting my family... so,
whats happening here?
Harry: The big news is that theyre trying to close
the caf!
Fadi: No!
Harry: Yes, and Olivias shop too.
Fadi: Thats terrible! Why?
Harry: A big building company are building new
flats behind here. They want to knock down
the caf and Olivias shop to make more
space.
Fadi: Oh no... What can we do to stop them?
Harry: Well, weve got a few ideas. Theres a guy
who comes in here sometimes called
Carlos he works for the builders. He might
help us. And Sarah and Olivia said they had
some ideas...
Fadi: We should start a campaign!
Bindyu: Good idea! Im a journalist. I could write
something in the local newspaper.
Harry: Erm, I thought you wrote for interior design
magazines...
Bindyu: Well, yes, I do, thats true. But I know
somebody who works for the local
newspaper. And I want to do more serious
journalism...
Fadi: Sounds like a great idea! Good luck! I think
we should put a banner in the window of the
caf...
Harry: A banner?
Fadi: Yeah, you know a big sign that says
Save Our Caf! or something like that...
Olivia: Hello all!
Fadi: Hey! Good to see you again!




Olivia: Yeah... you too! Hows it going?
Fadi: Great Im going to put a banner in the
caf window Save Our Caf!
Olivia: Good idea... can you save my shop too?
Fadi: Lets hope so! Bindyus going to write an
article in the local newspaper...
Olivia: Bindyu?
Bindyu: Hello! Im Bindyu... Im Harrys girlfriend...
Im a journalist.
Olivia: OK, great, nice to meet you!
Carlos: Hi!
Olivia: Heres Carlos! Hes going to help us too!
Carlos: Well, I dont know, Id like to help, but Im
not sure what I can do...
Harry: You make food for the builders, dont you?
Carlos: Yes, I do.
Olivia: You could put poison in it!
Carlos: Erm, well, no, I really dont think...
Olivia: Only joking!
Carlos: I was looking for Sarah is she here?
Olivia: No, I think shes coming in with Magda
later... why?
Carlos: Oh, no reason... I just wanted to see her...
Olivia: I see... oh look, here they are now!
Magda / Sarah: Hello everyone!
All: Hi!
Sarah: Hi Carlos! Good to see you again!
Carlos: Hi!
Sarah: Listen everybody, Magdas got some good
news!
Magda: Yes I got my masters degree with a
distinction!
All: Wow! Well done!
Harry: So you get a well-paid, full-time job with the
architects!
Magda: Yes I do!
Sarah: Which means we can afford to stay in our
expensive flat...
Magda: Theres only one problem, though...
Olivia: Oh? Whats that?
Magda: Im not really sure how to tell you this...
Olivia: Go on!
Magda: Well, the architects I work for...
Harry: Yeah? Go on!
Magda: They have a big new project...
Fadi: Sounds interesting...
Magda: And they want me to work on it...
Harry: Even better...
Magda: Well, not really you see, the project they
want me to work on...
Olivia: Yes?
Magda: Its the new luxury flats... the building
here...the people who want to close the
caf and your shop!




Comprehension Task
Select whats correct
Listen to the episode and choose the correct words.

1. Bindyu is Fadis / Harrys girlfriend.
2. Fadi has been visiting his family / girlfriend.
3. Fadi suggests starting a campaign / demonstration.
4. Bindyu is an editor / a journalist.
5. Sarah is pleased / annoyed to see Carlos.
6. Magda / Olivia has got a distinction in her degree.

Vocabulary Task
Match up
Match the words with a word from the box to make eight common expressions that were used in the recording.

1. Never _______
2. My _______
3. No _______
4. Hello _______

5. Not _______
6. Of _______
7. Only _______
8. Good _______

Grammar Task
Gap Fill
Fill the gaps in the sentences from the recording.

1. I havent seen you ________ here before.
2. Im waiting ________ my boyfriend.
3. Thats very kind ________ you.
4. They want to knock ________ the caf.
5. I know somebody who works ________ the local newspaper.
6. Im going to put a banner ________ the caf window.
7. You make food ________ the builders, dont you?
8. Nice ________ meet you!
9. I was looking ________ Sarah is she here?
10. I got my masters degree ________ a distinction.
Answers

there joking really idea mind treat course thanks
Hint! Use these prepositions:
in with of to down for


http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-4-save-cafe


Series 2 Episode 4
Save the Caf!
Introduction
Before you listen
Audio script
Comprehension Task
Vocabulary Task
Grammar Task

Before you listen
We suggest you do the vocabulary activity below before you listen. Then listen to the episode and do the first
task to check your understanding. Finally, practise some vocabulary and grammar.


1. article 2. campaign 3. impressive 4. knock down
5. chef 6. roof 7. optimistic 8. corporation

Definitions:

a. causing a positive impression
b. to demolish (a building)
c. a text in a newspaper or magazine
d. a professional cook in a restaurant
e. a large company or group of companies
f. the top, external part of a building
g. a planned series of events designed to change something
h. hopeful; believing that good things will happen

Sarah knows a secret about the building in which the caf
is situated. Will this save the caf? Written by Chris Rose.




Audio script
Tony: Oi! What are you lot doing? Whats that?
Harry: Its a banner...
Tony: A what?
Harry: A banner look! See what it says...
Tony: Save our... caf... Oh, I see. Very good.
Do you think itll stop them from closing this
place?
Olivia: Well, you never know. Every little bit helps.
Tony: Hmm. Im not sure having that thing stuck
to the front of my caf will change anything.
Bindyu: Oh yes it will, Tony be positive! My friend
from the local newspaper is coming to take
a photograph, and Im going to write an
article!
Tony: Hmm Great.
Olivia: Look Tony its the only thing we can do!
We can organise a campaign here, and at
the same time Sarahs doing some work as
well...
Magda: Wow! Look at that banner! Very
impressive!
Olivia: Hi Magda!
Magda: Hello everyone!
Olivia: So, go on then, have you decided to take
the job?
Magda: Yeah... I have to accept the job... I mean, I
really want to... its a good job, and good
jobs in architecture are difficult to get... and
I need the money!
Olivia: Sure, I understand...
Magda: Johnnys old flat, where me and Sarah
live its great but its so expensive...
Olivia: But you can help us...
Harry: Yeah, if you work for the company who
want to knock down Tonys caf and
Olivias shop, you can do something!
Magda: Well, Im not sure... but Ill see...
Carlos: Hello everyone!
All: Hi Carlos!
Carlos: Is Sarah here today?
Magda: Er, not yet... but she said shed be here
soon...
Carlos: Oh. OK, Ill wait for her. Is it OK if I sit here?
Magda: Sure...
Olivia: Come and join us!
Magda: So, is it true youre a chef?
Carlos: Not exactly... Id like to be a chef, thats
what I want to do, but at the moment Im a
caterer... its different...
Magda: Whats a caterer?
Carlos: A caterer makes food for lots of people I
make all the lunches for the people who
work on the building site next door. Its just
sandwiches or soup, or other simple things.
Its quite boring I like more of a challenge!
Olivia: Here she is!
Sarah: Hello everyone! Hello Carlos!
Carlos: Hi Sarah! Good to see you again
Olivia: Carlos was just telling us all about his job...
Sarah: Youre a chef, arent you?
Carlos: No... but I want to be!
Sarah: Where are you from?
Carlos: Im from Brazil! Even if no one believes
me...
Sarah: Why dont people think youre from Brazil?
Carlos: I dont like football, and I cant dance...
Sarah: Listen, though weve got an important job
to do... we have to save this caf, and
Olivias shop!
Olivia: Thats right...
Carlos: But how?
Harry: Ive put up the banner...
Bindyu: And Im writing an article for the local
paper...
Sarah: Great... and Ive found out something very
interesting...
Olivia: Oh? Whats that?




Sarah: Well, you know I have a friend who works at
the local museum I love going to
museums and art galleries, Carlos and
she told me something that could be
important...
Olivia: Go on...
Sarah: These buildings the caf and your shop
are actually a lot older than many people
think...
Olivia: Really?
Sarah: Yes. Theyre probably two hundred years
old...
Olivia: Tony! Did you hear that?
Tony: What?
Olivia: Sarah has found out that the caf and my
shop are really very old buildings...
Tony: Thats why Ive got a problem with the roof,
then...
Harry: It means they cant possibly knock down
these buildings!
Sarah: Right. They have historical value.
Tony: It wont stop them.
Olivia: Oh Tony, you must be more optimistic! Try
looking on the positive side!
Tony: I cant see a positive side...
Bindyu: Well make a great campaign itll show
how people can stop big corporations from
doing what they want!
Olivia: Lets hope so...
All: Yeah...

Comprehension Task
Multiple Choice
Listen to the episode and answer the questions. Which characters are the questions referring to?
Tony, Olivia, Bindyu, Sarah, Magda or Carlos?

1. Who tells Tony to be optimistic?

2. Who is going to work for the company which is building the flats?

3. Who shares a flat with Magda?

4. Who wants to be a chef?

5. Who is writing an article for the local newspaper?

6. Who has a friend working at the museum?

7. Who is pessimistic?

8. Who has a roof problem?





Vocabulary Task
Crossword Puzzle
Complete the crossword with
opposites of the clues.

Across
5. Positive
7. Difficult
9. Interesting
11. Accept
12. Stop
13. Little
14. Good

Down
1. Friend
2. Love
3. Similar
4. Old
6. Front
8. Important
10. Right

Grammar Task
Gap Fill
Fill the gaps with the correct verb forms. Use the same verb forms that the characters in this episode of Big City
Small World used.
1. See what it ________ (to say)
2. Every little bit ________ (to help)
3. Well, Im not sure... but I ________ (to see)
4. At the same time Sarah ________ some work as well. (to do)
5. Is it ok if I ________ here? (to sit)
6. Have you decided ________ the job? (to take)
7. She ________ me something that could be important. (to tell)
8. Itll show how people can ________ big corporations from ________ what they want! (to stop; to do)





Answers

http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-5-good-journalism


Series 2 Episode 5
Good Journalism?
Introduction
Before you listen
Audio script
Comprehension Task
2 Vocabulary Tasks
Grammar Task

Before you listen
We suggest you do the vocabulary activity below before you listen. Then listen to the episode and do the first task
to check your understanding. Finally, practise some vocabulary and grammar.


1. historic 2. exclusive 3. scoop 4. reveal
5. confidential 6. source 7. mention 8. worry

Definitions:

a. A big, important news story
b. Show, demonstrate
c. Refer to something or someone
d. Think negatively about future problems
e. Something famous or important in the past
f. The origin of something
g. Private
h. Only in one place

Bindyu has done something to save the cafe but is it the
right thing to do? Written by Chris Rose.



Audio script
Harry: Campaign to save local shops
Bindyu: Yes, they put my article on the front
page of the newspaper...
Harry: Historic buildings threatened by new
development
Bindyu: I feel like a real journalist now!
Olivia: It must make a change from writing about
interior design...
Bindyu: Oh yes...
Sarah: Lets have a look...
Harry: Great photo as well look, you can see
my banner on the front of the caf!
Sarah: We have discovered that Tonys Caf and
the shoe shop threatened with demolition
are actually historic buildings... Erm, it
was really me and my friend who
discovered that, Bindyu, not you...
Bindyu: Yes, youre right, but whats important is
that now they cant close the caf!
Olivia: Or my shop....
Bindyu: Exactly!
Sarah: I guess youre right... We have found
exclusive information which shows that the
company building the new flats who
want to demolish the historic buildings to
make more space know they should not
demolish the buildings... Hang on! The
building company already know! How did
you find that out?
Bindyu: Its an exclusive! A scoop!
Sarah: But how did you find that information?
Bindyu: Thats a secret!
Olivia: Go on, tell us!
Bindyu: A good journalist never reveals her
sources!
Sarah: Go on, tell us!
Bindyu: Magda told me!
Olivia: Talk of the devil...
Magda: Sorry? Devil?
Olivia: Magda, Im sorry... its just an expression...
Magda: What does it mean?
Olivia: If youre talking about somebody, and then
they appear, you say: Talk of the devil...
Magda: Oh. I see. And why were you talking
about me?
Olivia: You gave some important information to
Bindyu...
Magda: Well, yes, its true. I did find out some
interesting information. Its my new job I
work for that company, you know...
Olivia: Yeah. I was surprised you found that
confidential information!
Magda: But I didnt think youd write about it,
Bindyu!
Bindyu: Dont worry. I didnt mention your name
anywhere! This is good journalism...
Magda: I guess so, but... if my employers find
out I gave information to you, I could be in
trouble! I might lose my job!
Olivia: Oh no...
Bindyu: Dont worry Magda. No one will know, and
our campaign will be successful...
Magda: OK
Harry: Yeah you watch theres no way they
can close the caf now!
Olivia: I hope youre right...
Sarah: Oh!
Magda: Wow!
Harry: Hey!
Olivia: Hi!!
Bindyu: Erm, whos this?
All: Johnny!!!
Johnny: Hi!!!
Olivia: Welcome back!
Harry: Good to see you, man!
Johnny: Good to see you all again! Im back!



Comprehension Task
True or false
Listen to the episode and decide whether these statements are true or false.
1. Bindyus article is on the front page of the newspaper.
2. Tony told Bindyu that the caf was an historic building.
3. Harry helped Bindyu to write the article.
4. Olivia was surprised that Magda got information from her company.
5. Bindyu included Magdas name in the article.
6. Fadi has returned to the caf after a long time.

Vocabulary Task 1
Gap fill
Complete the sentences using the words in the box.

1. Lets have a ________!
2. I ________ youre right!
3. I ________ youre right!
4. ________ of the devil!
5. Go on, ________ us!
6. What does it ________?
7. Welcome ________!
8. Good to see you ________!

Vocabulary Task 2
Spelling
Choose the correct spellings.

Option A Option B
1 campaign campaing
2 development developement
3 actualy actually
4 expresion expression
5 reveal reveale
6 really realy
7 surprised suprised
8 wellcome welcome

man hope back tell
mean guess look talk



Grammar Task
Gap Fill
Complete the gaps in the summary with a, an, the or (no article).

Answers

___________
1
company that is building ___________
2
new flats knows
that ___________
3
Tonys Caf and ___________
4
shoe shop are
historic buildings. Olivia and her friends want to stop ___________
5

company from knocking down ___________
6
caf and ___________
7

shop. Bindyu wrote ___________
8
article for ___________
9
local
newspaper about ___________
10
situation. ___________
11
newspaper
___________
12
article was printed on ___________
13
front page.
___________
14
lots of people know what is happening now.

http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-6-welcome-back-johnny


Series 2 Episode 6:
Welcome Back Johnny!
Introduction
Before you listen
Comprehension Task
Grammar Task
Vocabulary Task
Audio script

Before you listen
We suggest you do the vocabulary activity below before you listen. Then listen to the episode and do the
first task to check your understanding. Finally, practise some vocabulary and grammar.


1. Career 2. Jealous 3. To fit in 4. Building site
5. Legal 6. Position 7. Caterer 8. Hooray

Definitions:

a. A job in an organisation
b. An area where a building is being erected
c. Jobs throughout your life
d. Someone who provides food
e. Lawful, within the law
f. An exclamation of joy
g. Wanting something that another person has got
h. To belong

Now, listen to episode 6.

Johnny is back! But is he back for good? And Carlos is going to tell us
something really important... Written by Chris Rose.



Match up
Match the sentence halves.

1. Johnny is staying in London... a. the football team again.
2. Sarah would love to visit... b. for at least a year.
3. Harry introduces Johnny... c. that he is running a business.
4. Fadi wants to start... d. her family and friends.
5. Carlos tells everybody that... e. be rich in a couple of years.
6. Tony reminds everyone... f. is not going to be demolished.
7. The good news is that the caf... g. he is no good at football.
8. Johnny thinks he will... h. to his new girlfriend.
Match up
Match the sentences with the speakers.

Magda

Who said?
Bindyu

Olivia

Johnny

Sarah

Harry

Tony

Fadi

1. Its great to be back!
2. Oh, Im a bit jealous of you.
3. Oh, by the way this is Bindyu.
4. Well have to start the football
team again!
5. You always talk about your job!
6. Are you just back for a visit?
7. I wrote an article in the local
paper!
8. Are you going to buy something?



Grammar Task
Gap Fill
Complete the sentences using the prepositions below.
at about back by down for for on up
1. It's great to be __________!
2. A position came __________ with my company.
3. You always talk __________ your job!
4. I haven't been back __________ ages now.
5. So you're back __________ good?
6. I'm afraid I'm no good __________ football
7. So what's been going __________ here while I've been away?
8. They want to knock __________ the caf!
9. Oh, __________ the way this is Bindyu.

Vocabulary Task
Complete the table
adverb adjective
1. __________ actual
historically 2. __________
3. __________ good
really 4. __________
5. __________ exact
probably 6. __________



Audio script
All: Johnny! Welcome back! Great to see you
again!
Johnny: Its great to be back!
Olivia: Are you just back for a visit?
Johnny: No! Im staying...!
All: Hooray!
Fadi: Great news!
Johnny: Yeah a position came up with my
company back in London I applied for it, and,
well, here I am!
Olivia: How did it go in China?
Johnny: Great it was really good to be back. I
did really well in my job...
Magda: You always talk about your job!
Johnny: Hey! My career is important to me!
Sarah: Oh, Im a bit jealous of you... Id love to go
back home to visit my family and friends. I
havent been back for ages now...
Johnny: Yeah... you should go...
Olivia: So youre back for good?
Johnny: For a year, at least... then well see!
Harry: Oh, by the way this is Bindyu shes my
girlfriend...
Johnny: Nice to meet you! Well done, Harry...
Bindyu: Nice to meet you too.
Fadi: Well have to start the football team again!
All: Hi Carlos!
Carlos: Oh, Hi! Hi Sarah!
Sarah: Hello!
Harry: Johnny this is our new Brazilian friend,
Carlos...
Johnny: Hi Carlos! Youre Brazilian? You must
be good at football... join our team!
Carlos: Erm, well, actually, Im afraid Im no good
at football...
Johnny: Well, youll fit in with our team then!
Carlos: Eh?
Harry: Never mind, Carlos, its not important...
Johnny: So whats been going on here while Ive
been away?
All: Er, well... hmmm...
Harry: Lots of stuff.
Johnny: Go on! I saw that banner in the window
whats up? Why do you need to save the caf?
Olivia: And my shop...
Harry: Well, did you see that building site just
behind the caf?
Johnny: Yes, I did actually it looks like theyre
building something big, looks interesting...
Olivia: Hmmm...
Harry: Yeah, luxury flats...
Olivia: The problem being...
Tony: ... they want to knock down the caf!
Olivia: And my shop.
Johnny: Oh no...
Sarah: But dont worry!
Johnny: Why not?
Harry: We got a campaign going the banner in
the window...
Bindyu: And I wrote an article in the local paper!
Sarah: We found theyre historic buildings so
its not legal to knock them down.
Johnny: Dont worry anyhow - Im rich enough
now! I could buy the caf, and your shop Olivia,
then do what I want!
Harry: Seriously!?
Johnny: Er, well, no, actually, probably not. Just
joking, you know. But I will be rich enough in a



couple of years...!
Harry: Yeah, right.
Carlos: Listen guys, that was what I came to talk
to you about. At lunch today Im a caterer,
Johnny, I make lunch for all the people who work
on the building site next door...
Johnny: I see...
Carlos: ... well, there were two of the top
managers there.
Olivia: Oh yeah?
Sarah: And?
Carlos: Well, I didnt listen to them, exactly...
Sarah: Of course not!
Carlos: No, but... I heard what they were
saying...
Olivia: And what were they saying?
Carlos: They were saying...
Tony: Oi! Johnny! Are you going to buy
something? If you want to have a party go back
to your house! I run a business here, you know...
Johnny: Oh sorry, Tony yeah, could I have a
coffee please?
Tony: That all?
Olivia: Tony! Please... Carlos is going to tell us
something really important...
Tony: What?
Olivia: Thats what were going to find out...!
Carlos... Go on!
Carlos: The managers, they were saying that
they know these buildings the caf, and your
shop they know theyre historic buildings, and
they know they cant knock them down...
Magda: Yes... thats what I found out...I told
Bindyu... she put it in the paper...
Carlos: Yes theyve read the newspaper, they
said. They know theres nothing they can do...
Olivia: So?
Magda: So?
Harry: So?
Tony: So?
Carlos: So... theyre not going to knock them
down! The campaign was a success! Youve
won!

Answers
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-7-alone-christmas
Series 2 Episode 7:
Alone For Christmas?
Introduction
x Before you listen
Our friends are staying here for Christmas. Find out if they are
spending this festive season alone. Written by Chris Rose.
x Grammar Task
x Vocabulary Task
x Audio script
Before you listen
1. speciality 2. course 3. festival 4. candle
5. nephew 6. present 7. invent 8. excuse
Definitions:
a. The son of ones sister or brother
b. A celebration, often official
c. A reason you give why you did something wrong
d. Something that is special or specific to a place, organisation, etc
e. A part of a meal served separately from the other parts
f. A light source made from wax, used before electricity
g. Something given as a treat or gift
h. Create or design something new
Comprehension Task
Look at the list of Christmas things. Tick the boxes next to the ones mentioned in the episode.
Christmas Item Mentioned in the episode?
1 Christmas presents
2 Christmas cards
3 Christmas cake
4 Christmas pudding
5 Christmas tree
6 Christmas dinner
7 Christmas crackers
8 Father Christmas
9 Christmas decorations
10 Christmas party
Choose the correct word in each sen
as eve / day.
or Christmas.
shes after the dinner.
6. Capirinha is a type of cake / drink.
tence.
1. Fadi wants Tony to open the caf on Christm
2. Johnny likes Christmas in China / London.
3. Magda is / isnt going to Poland f
4. Joe is Olivias cousin / nephew.
5. Tony refuses / offers to wash the di
more attractive; in plural)
with a message)
mas)
ring Christmas)
10. sno_ _ _ _ (a snow sculpture which resembles a person)
Complete the sentences using the verbs below.
Vocabulary Task
Complete the words below by checking the hints.
1. decorat_ _ _ _ (things that are put on or around something to make it
2. car_ _ (a song that is usually sung at Christmas)
3. rein_ _ _ _ (the animals that pull the Christmas sleigh)
4. ca_ _ (it is made of paper and inside it is usually printed
5. can_ _ _ (it produces light when it burns)
6. pre_ _ _ _ (the same as gift)
7. tur_ _ _ (a type of bird which is usually cooked and eaten during Christ
8. ho_ _ _ (a small evergreen tree with shiny leaves and small red fruit)
9. pud _ _ _ _ (a dessert which is eaten at the end of a meal du
Grammar Task
staying going trying
doing washing worrying
1. What are you __________ for Christmas?
ily?
6. Im not __________ the dishes afterwards!
2. I can stop __________ now.
3. The caf is __________ open!
4. I love __________ new things!
5. Arent you __________ back to visit your fam
Olivia:
Fadi:
and your shop, of course - its like an
Olivia: Its still a bit early for Christmas
Olivia: Yeah... I guess youre right. I can stop
now. Hey Tony!
Olivia:
happy about this! The caf is staying
Olivia: So, Fadi what are you doing for
Fadi: Nothing much guess Ill just be with
Olivia:
Christmas just with my friends, not
Fadi: t to spend
use!
Fadi: Lets leave our families for a few
!
Olivia:
Fadi:
to celebrate our campaign to
keep the caf open, and Christmas
Olivia: Great idea! But Ill probably have to
terrible little nephew,
All:
Olivia:
Johnny:
s how could I forget! I
presents...
Magda in
so special, Ill really miss it
sually go back to
: ldnt afford it.
Sarah: me and Magda will be on
as.
ck
Sarah:
dea - in Poland we have a
Carlos: ...
Magda:
Audio Script
Fadi: What a fantastic Christmas present!
Did someone say present? I love
presents...
I just mean the caf staying open
early Christmas present!
presents...
Fadi: Come on, its only a few days now!
worrying
Tony: What?
Come on Tony! Even you must be
open!
Fadi: Our campaign was successful!
Tony: Yeah... erm, thanks everybody!
Christmas?
my family...
Yeah, me too - itd be great to spend
the whole family...
Yeah, itd be grea
Christmas with you... er, I mean,
everyone here...
Olivia: Oh, yeah, erm... hmmm.
Fadi: Tell you what lets invent an exc
Olivia: An excuse? How do you mean?
hours... come and have dinner here
Here? I dont think the caf will be
open on Christmas day...
We can persuade Tony to open just
for us
too...
bring Joe...
Fadi: Oh no! Joe, your
Id forgotten about him...
Hi Johnny!
Johnny: Hello everyone!
We were just talking about
Christmas...
Of course, Ive come back just in time
for Christma
love Christmas here in London... We
dont really celebrate Christmas in
China, but I love it here lots of food,
: I love Christmas too, but Christmas
Poland is
this year...
Sarah: Arent you going back to visit your
family? You u
Poland.
Magda I wanted to go, but I cou
Plane tickets are so expensive at this
time of year.
(sighs) So,
our own for Christm
Carlos: Me too theres no way I can go ba
to Brazil!
Thats a long way.
Carlos: Ive got an idea if Fadi and Olivia
can ask Tony to open the caf, Ill
cook a proper Christmas dinner for
everyone! I love cooking.
Magda: Good i
twelve-course meal at Christmas!
Twelve courses! Wow, thats a lot
It is...
...
, but dont try to make
Olivia: y! Harry what
Bindyu:
at, but
:
Fadi:
?
.
... erm, Tony!
Olivia: Christmas?
invite you to have
Tony: ats very kind of you
ou, yes...
g...
Olivia: ve our Christmas
here!
Olivia:
Ton
Fadi:
g to be the best Christmas
and drinking, laughter)
ilian
ya...
All: py Christmas!
:
elicious!
:
nything!
ened?
Carlos: Ill try and make some traditional
Polish food for you Magda... and
perhaps something special for you
too, Sarah... Id like that
Sarah: Thats very kind
Chinese food for me! Its difficult...
make one of your own specialities I
love trying new things!
Carlos: OK, youre on!
This sounds like a part
about you? What are you doing for
Christmas?
Harry: Well, Ive only got my mum, so I
guess Ill be with her.
Bindyu: Itd be nice to have Christmas dinner
with you...
Harry: Yeah, it would... dont you have to be
with your family...
We dont really celebrate Christmas...
Olivia: Dont forget its a religious festival!
Harry: Of course, yeah, I know th
everyone can enjoy Christmas!
Olivia: Well, why dont you two try and join
us....
Harry: Ill see what we can do....
Carlos There is a problem though...
Whats that?
Carlos: Nobody has asked Tony...
Fadi: Oh, erm, yeah... Go on Olivia you
ask him...
Olivia: Why me
Fadi: Youre the best at that kind of thing..
Olivia: OK, OK
Tony: Yeah?
What are you doing for
Tony: Why?
Olivia: We wanted to
Christmas with us!
Well... well, th
thank y
Olivia: Just one thin
Tony: Whats that?
Erm, wed like to ha
dinner
Tony: Here?
Yes. Here!
y: Hmm... OK, but Im not washing the
dishes afterwards!
Deal!
Johnny: This is goin
party ever!
(sounds of eating
Carlos: So here it is! Some Braz
specialties this is papa
Magda: Mmmm...
Carlos: This is cassava...
Harry: Delicious...
Carlos: And capirinha to drink!
Cheers! Hap
Harry And Ive brought my mums
Christmas pudding!
Sarah: Euurrgghh!
Olivia: No, you must try it! It's d
(crashing noise)
All: Whats going on! Whats happened?
Johnny Its all dark!
Fadi: I cant see a
Olivia: Joe! What have you done?
Harry: Whats happ
Tony: Hes broken the lights! That little...
All: Oh no!
Bindyu: Never mind lets light candles!!!
lly romantic!
e! Dont touch the candles!
Olivia:
Carlos:
ou do too, Sarah...
it is...
Johnny: Its like I said this is the best
Christmas ever! Im always right!
(laughter)
All: Happy Christmas!
Harry: Great...
Everybody thinks its romantic... I Olivia: Good idea!
hope y
Fadi: Wow, yeah, this is rea
Sarah: Erm, yes, I suppose
Olivia: Isnt it! Jo
Fadi: Its great to be with you Olivia...
Erm, yeah, you too...
Bindyu: Yes, very romantic...
Answers
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-8-happy-new-year
Series 2 Episode 8:
What are Johnny and his friends going to do for New Year's Eve? Is
Carlos finally asking Sarah out on a date? Written by Chris Rose.
Happy New Year
Introduction
x Before you listen
x Grammar Task
x Vocabulary Task
x Audio script
Before you listen
1.strictly 2.procession 3.Trafalgar Square 4.chaotic
5.midnight 6.dawn 7.mate 8.husband
Definitions:
a. The moment of the day when the sun rises.
b. Random. Without being organised.
c. Twelve oclock at night.
d. Following the rules closely.
e. The man in a marriage.
f. A formation of people moving forward slowly, e.g. in religious festival.
g. A public square and monument in the centre of London.
h. Colloquial term for friend.
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xx Before yo Befor
xx Comprehens Comprehen
Grammar Task Grammar Task
Vocabulary Task Vocabulary Task
Audio script dio script
cabulary activity below be ulary activity below
standing. Finally, practise ding. Finally, practi
e boxes to the definitions. oxes to the definitions
3.Trafalgar Squa Trafalgar Sq
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Comprehension Task
True or false
1. It is New Years Day the following day.
2. Johnny wants to go to Trafalgar Square.
3. Sarah likes drinking beer.
4. Olivia knows what Auld Lang Syne means.
5. Tony is opening the caf all night on New Years Eve.
6. Harry wants to spend New Years Eve with his girlfriend.
7. Olivia is babysitting on New Years Eve.
8. Olivia invites everyone to her place.
Match up
Match the sentences with the speakers.
Magda Carlos
Olivia Harry
Sarah Fadi
Tony
Who said?
3. Its a Scottish song really.
4. She doesnt organise my life!
5. We could go to a club.
6. I close early on New Years Eve.
7. Just around the caf.
2. I hate drinking beer.
1. I can cook again!
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2. I hate drinking
I can cook
Grammar Task
Choose the correct sentence, a or b.
1. a. Sarah asked when New Years Eve was.
b. Sarah asked when was New Years Eve.
2. a. Carlos said that he can cook again.
b. Carlos said that he could cook again.
3. a. Johnny suggested going to Trafalgar Square.
b. Johnny suggested to go to Trafalgar Square.
4. a. Sarah said she hadnt wanted to go to a pub.
b. Sarah said that she didnt want to go to a pub.
5. a. Harry told to everyone he was going to see Bindyu.
b. Harry told everyone he was going to see Bindyu.
6. a. Everybody wished themselves a Happy New Year.
b. Everybody wished each other a Happy New Year.
Vocabulary Task
Match up
Match the two parts of each dialogue.
1. Christmas goes on until January 6
th
2. Is there a special dinner for New Year in Britain?
3. Lets go and stand outside in Trafalgar Square!
4. People sing a song at midnight.
5. Ive got lots of girls!
6. I think we should have a procession.
7. I have to look after my nephew Joe.
8. You can all come to my house.
Audio Script
Johnny: So, after our successful Christmas,
what are we going to do for New
Years Eve?
Sarah: When is New Years Eve?
Harry: Tomorrow!
h. Now you tell me.
g. Forget it!
f. Oh yeah?
e. Thats nice!
d. Not really.
c. Great idea!
b. It never ends!
a. No way!
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Sarah: New Year already! Christmas has
only just finished!
Magda: Strictly speaking, Sarah, it still is
Christmas Christmas goes on until
January 6th. New Years Eve is part
of Christmas.
Sarah: Wow, it never ends...
Carlos: I can cook again! Is there a special
dinner for New Year in Britain?
Harry: Not really.
Johnny: In China there are lots of processions
in the streets. Are there processions
here?
Olivia: Not really.
Sarah: In China New Year is a very important
holiday. Is it very important in Britain?
Fadi: Not really.
Johnny: So what do people do for New Year?
Harry: Depends... some people have parties,
some people go to a pub or a club
and drink a lot.
Olivia: Some people go and stand outside
quite a lot of people go to Trafalgar
Square in the centre of London...
Johnny: Lets do that!
Harry: No way! Its too cold!
Fadi: And usually raining!
Olivia: And too chaotic!
Sarah: Do people drink a lot?
Harry: Some do.
Sarah: I hate drinking beer.
Harry: A lot of people stay at home and
watch TV.
Olivia: Then sing a song at midnight.
Sarah: Whats the song?
Olivia: Its a Scottish song really...
(sings a bit of Auld Lang Syne)
Sarah: Thats nice. What do the words
mean?
Olivia: Erm, well, no one really knows...
Harry: Some people know
Fadi: In Scotland, probably.
Johnny: So what shall we do, then?
Sarah: I dont want to go to a pub and get
drunk.
Fadi: We could go to a club I know some
great places we can go out dancing
till dawn! Great music, lots of girls...
Olivia: You and your girlfriends...
Fadi: OK, OK... lets forget that idea then.
Harry: No, its not for me... I dont think
Bindyu would like it...
Fadi: Come on Harry, you cant let Bindyu
organise your life!
Harry: She doesnt organise my life! I like
being with her, and I like doing the
things she wants to do...
Fadi: Ive lost you, mate!
Harry: I think you need a girlfriend too!
Fadi: Hey! No way! Ive got lots of girls!
Johnny: Oh yeah? How come Ive never met
them?
Fadi: Well, erm, hey, erm... you know how
it is....
Johnny: I think we should have a procession...
Olivia: Where?
Magda: Just around the caf.
Tony: Whats that? A procession in my
caf? Forget it! Anyway, I close early
on New Years Eve, so you lot will
need to find something else to do.
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Johnny: We have to decide now then what
are we going to do on New Years
Eve?
Fadi: Erm... OK then....
Carlos: Sarah... erm... I... er... would you like
to come out with me?
Harry: Im going to see Bindyu. I think well
stay at home.
Sarah: I cant leave my friend Magda on her
own!
Olivia: Im going to stay at home too. My
sisters going to a party with her
husband, so I have to look after my
nephew Joe.
Johnny: And hang on what about me, too!?
Olivia: OK, everyone... I guess you can all
come to my house, but only until
midnight! Then you all have to go
home!
Fadi: Now you tell me!
Olivia: Sorry... listen why dont you come
round?
All: Hooray! Great idea! Happy New
Year!!!
Answers
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Answ Ans

http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-9-new-years-resolutions


Series 2 Episode 9:
New Year's Resolutions
Introduction
Before you listen
Comprehension Task
Grammar Task
Vocabulary Task
Audio script

Before you listen


1. new year's
resolution
2. to fix 3. chef 4. a date
5. to wonder 6. a chance 7. supposed 8. website

Definitions:
a. A professional cook in a restaurant
b. Thought to be something or somehow
c. To think about and try to understand
d. To mend
e. A romantic meeting
f. A promise that is made to one's self on 1st January
g. An opportunity
h. A series of pages in a certain location on the internet


What are Johnny and his friends going to do for New Year's Eve? Is
Carlos finally asking Sarah out on a date? Written by Chris Rose.



Comprehension Task
Match up
Decide who does the following things:

Olivia

Sarah

Bindyu

Harry

Fadi

Johnny

Carlos
1. __________ enjoys saying Happy New Year.
2. __________ has a problem with her website.
3. __________ recommends somebody to help Olivia.
4. __________ offers to fix the web page.
5. __________ isnt happy that her boyfriend is going to fix the web page.
6. __________ wants to ask somebody out on a date.
7. __________ is the last person to arrive at the caf.

Grammar Task
Gap Fill
Look at sentences a-h and complete the rules 1-2 with the words given below.

Example sentences
a. You are supposed to say
b. They were supposed to be
new.
c. I can help.
d. We can do it all again.
e. You need to practice.
f. I need to fix it.
g. You should decide to do
something.
h. He should ask her out.
Rules
the infinitive without to the infinitive with to
1. We use ________________ after supposed and
need.
2. We use ________________ after can and
should.



Vocabulary Task
Match up
Match the two parts to make common expressions.

1. Lets
a. there!
2. Oh
b. the problem?
3. Shut
c. please!
4. Whats
d. know!
5. Hello
e. up?
6. Whats
f. up!
7. You
g. on!
8. Go
h. wait.
Vocabulary Task 2
Word Search
Find the following eight adjectives from the recording and their eight opposites in the word search:

happy
first
friendly
large
strong
bad
right
new



Audio Script
Johnny: Happy New Year!
Fadi: Stop, please! Enough New Year!
Johnny: Its the first time Ive seen you this
year! Youre supposed to say Happy
New Year!
Fadi: OK, OK...happy New Year to you too,
then!
Johnny: It will be Chinese New Year soon then
we can do it all again!
Fadi: Fine, OK, lets wait until then, though,
eh?
Fadi: Hi!
Johnny: Hi!
Magda: Happy New Year!
Fadi: Oh, please!
Magda: Im only trying to be friendly....
Fadi: Yeah, sure, sorry... can we think about
something else now please?
Magda: Have you made any new years
resolutions?
Johnny: New Years what?
Magda: new Years resolutions. Olivia told me
about it - at the beginning of the year,
you should decide to do something, and
do it all year.
Johnny: What kind of thing?
Fadi: Something like stop smoking, or go to
the gym every day, or study more...
All: Hi Olivia! Hey! Hello!
Olivia: Hmmph. Tony could I have a large
coffee please? Make it extra strong!
Fadi: Looks like someones having a bad
day...!
Olivia: Oh shut up Fadi!
Fadi: Sorry!
Magda: Whats up, Olivia?
Olivia: My website isnt working properly. I
need to fix it.
Fadi: Heres the right man to help you!
Harry: Hello there! Are you talking about me?
Olivia: Ive got problems with my website
again...
Harry: I told you I should have set it up the first
time! You should have asked me!
Olivia: OK, OK... you were right...
Harry: So whats the problem?
Olivia: The online sales page doesnt
work. People cant buy my shoes!
Harry: Im sure I can help fix it.
Olivia: Go on then. Come over to my flat
tonight, and well have a look.
Bindyu: Oh, sorry Olivia, Im not sure he can
come to your flat tonight.
Harry: Yeah, I can. Im not busy tonight.
Bindyu: I thought we were going to the cinema?
Harry: Were we? Sorry, I didnt know. Id like
to help Olivia, if I can...
Bindyu: Hmmphh.
Olivia: Oh listen Harry... dont worry if you cant
come and help.
Harry: No. Ill come. I love websites you
know!



Johnny: Heres another one of our friends...
thank goodness for that...
All: Hello Carlos!
Carlos: Hello there!
Magda: We were talking about New Years
resolutions. Whats yours?
Carlos: New Years what?
Magda: New Years resolution - at the beginning
of the year, you should decide to do
something, and do it all year.
Carlos: Oh, I see...well I want to be a chef...
Fadi: We know that, its not new.
Johnny: It has to be something new!
Magda: Yes something you want to do this
year!
Carlos: Oh. OK... I see, well... let me think...
something I want to do this year... I
know. I want to ask Sarah out on a date!
All: Wow!
Magda: Oh... well... it looks like you have a
chance right now, Carlos!
Sarah: Hello everyone! Were you talking about
me?
Carlos: Well, no, erm yes, I mean...
Magda: Go on, Carlos!
Fadi: Carlos has got a question to ask you...
Sarah: Oh yes?
Carlos: Oh, yes, erm... well... I was wondering
if... erm...
Sarah: If?
Carlos: Yes, if youd like to... erm... I dont
know... perhaps... erm... go out some
time?
Sarah: Go out with you?
Carlos: Well, yeah, I mean, if you want to...
Sarah: Oh well... erm... what I think is...

Answers
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-10-date
Series 2 Episode 10: A Date
Sarah finally agrees to go out with Carlos but they have no idea where
to go. Is Fadi jealous of Harry for spending a lot of time with Olivia?
Written by Chris Rose.
Introduction
x Before you listen
x Grammar Task
x Grammar Task 2
x Vocabulary Task
x Audio script
Before you listen
1. invite 2. pushy 3. both 4. energetic
5. invitation 6. expensive 7. mate 8. jealous
Definitions:
a. Feeling negatively towards someone because you want something of theirs
b. Overenthusiastic persuading
c. Having a lot of energy
d. Costing a lot of money
e. Colloquial term for friend
f. Feeling or showing envy of someone or their achievements and advantages
g. To ask someone to go somewhere or do something with you
h. An offer to take part in or attend something
i. Used to indicate two choices, two of something
Big City Small Big City Sma
This support pack co This support pack
xx Before y Befor
xx Comprehen Comprehen
Grammar Task Grammar T
Grammar Task 2 Grammar Task 2
Vocabulary Task ocabulary Task
udio script
bulary activity below befo lary activity below be
nding. Finally, practise so ing. Finally, practis
boxes to the definitions. oxes to the definitions.
3. both both
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Comprehension Task
Order the events
Put the events into the order they occurred in the episode.
a. Olivia explains that Harry is working on her computer.
b. Olivia invites Harry and Bindyu to her flat.
c. Harry tells the others that Bindyu is not happy about the time he spends with Olivia.
d. Sarah invites Carlos to an art gallery.
e. Carlos confesses that he knows nothing about art.
f. Fadi and Olivia joke about the number of girlfriends he has.
g. The boys are discussing Carlos date with Sarah.
1
st

h. Bindyu arrives at the caf.
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Grammar Task
Reorder the words
Put the words in the right order to make 8 sentences from the recording.
1. where take you So going are to her?
_____________________________________________
2. well! money spend my like I to
_____________________________________________
3. Dont to your house date, though. invite her on a first
_____________________________________________
4. really me. angry Bindyus with
_____________________________________________
5. fix Did help website? you to Harry your
_____________________________________________
6. I nephew evening. have after my look Joe to this
_____________________________________________
7. Ill all evening! you Well, this see
_____________________________________________
8. dont worry you her! have to about to Now take where
_____________________________________________
Grammar Task 2
Select the right word
Choose the correct words in each sentence.
1. She thinks Im spending too much /
many time with Olivia.
2. He still needs do / to do some more work.
3. Ill make dinner for anyone / everyone.
4. Are you jealous as much / well?
5. Would you like come / to come with me?
6. Ill meet you here by / at six!
7. Youre going to find it / out!!
Vocabulary Task
Complete the table
Fill in the table with the correct adverb or adjective.
adjective adverb
real 1.___________
2.___________ slowly
good 3.___________
4.___________ angrily
bad 5.___________
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Audio Script
Carlos: I cant believe Sarah said Yes!
Fadi: Well done, mate!
Johnny: So where are you going to take her?
Carlos: Oh, I dont know... We didnt decide
where to go.
Fadi: Take her out for dinner, somewhere
nice.
Carlos: Yeah, thats a good idea...
Johnny: I know a great Chinese place.
Carlos: Yes, but she always eats Chinese
food perhaps shed like a change,
try something different?
Fadi: All the restaurants Johnny goes too
are really expensive! Take your credit
card if you go there!
Johnny: I like to spend my money well!
Carlos: I thought I could cook something for
her. I want to be a chef, you know.
Johnny Yes, we know.
Fadi: Yes, we know.
Fadi: Dont invite her to your house on a
first date, though.
Carlos: No? Why not?
Fadi: It looks too pushy, too forward.
Carlos: Oh, I see.
Johnny: Yeah... take it slowly!
Carlos: Oh, OK. Shes coming to the caf
soon, so well talk about it then.
Olivia: Hello guys!
Harry: Alright!?
Fadi: Yeah, Im fine mate. You?
Harry: Hmm... Not so great...
Fadi: Whats up?
Harry: Bindyus really angry with me.
Johnny: Whys that?
Harry: She thinks Im spending too much
time with Olivia.
Olivia: But its work! I told Bindyu that Harrys
helping me to fix my webpages.
Fadi: Is she jealous?
Harry: Shhhh! Be quiet! Here she is now!
Harry: Hi!
Bindyu: Hello Harry! Hi all!
All: Hello!
Bindyu: Hello Olivia.
Olivia: Hello.
Bindyu: Did Harry help you to fix your
website?
Olivia: Well, not quite. He still needs to do
some more work.
Bindyu: Hmmppph.
Olivia: Listen, Ive got an idea why dont
you both come to my flat this
evening? Harry can do some work for
me, and Ill make dinner for everyone.
Harry: OK! What do you think Bindyu?
Bindyu: Well, OK, I suppose so.
Olivia: Erm, there is just one problem I
have to look after my nephew Joe this
evening. Hes very, erm, energetic....
Bindyu: Oh, thats OK I love children!
Olivia: Great! Well, Ill see you all this
evening!
Bindyu: Well come about seven oclock!
Come on Harry, we have to go now.
Harry: Er, OK, yeah... Bye everyone!
All: Bye!
Fadi: So Olivia, youre spending a lot of
time with Harry!
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Olivia: Oh shut up you! Are you jealous as
well?
Fadi: Me? No! No way!
Olivia: Good. Youve got lots of girlfriends,
havent you?
Fadi: Me? Oh yeah. Hundreds!
Carlos: Its Sarah!
Sarah: Hello all!
Carlos: Hi there!
Sarah: Hi Carlos!
Carlos: Hey!
Sarah: Listen, Ive only got a minute, I cant
stay.
Carlos: Er OK...
Sarah: I just wanted to say, Ive got an
invitation to a new art gallery opening
this evening.
Carlos: Great.
Sarah: Would you like to come with me?
Carlos: Erm, er, yeah! Sure!
Sarah: Great! Ill meet you here at six!
Carlos: OK. See you later then. Bye!
Sarah: See you later! Bye!
Fadi: Hey! Thats your date!
Johnny: Now you dont have to worry about
where to take her!
Carlos: But... but... I am worried! I dont know
anything about art! What will I say?
Fadi & Johnny:
Youre going to find out!
Answers
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http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-11-embarrassment


Series 2 Episode 11:
Embarrassment
Introduction
Before you listen
Comprehension Task
Grammar Task
Vocabulary Task
Vocabulary Task 2
Audio script

Before you listen


1. date 2. contemporary 3. scruffy 4. blurred
5. embarrassed 6. disaster 7. nightclub 8. fashionable

Definitions:
a. A terrible event
b. Up-to-date, modern
c. A romantic meeting
d. A little bit ashamed
e. Old and used - usually for clothes
f. Unclear - something you see
g. Describes a person who wears new popular clothes
h. A place where you can dance and buy drinks at night

rg g ty ep
Carlos and Sarah's first date turns out to be a disaster! What exactly
happened? Written by Chris Rose.



Comprehension Task
True or False
1. Sarah likes contemporary art.
2. Carlos loved the exhibition.
3. Carlos felt intelligent at the art gallery.
4. Carlos never wants to go out with Sarah again.
5. Bindyu thinks Joe is a sweet child.
6. Olivia and Bindyu are friends now.

Grammar Task
Select the right sentence
Choose the correct sentence a or b.

1. a, I wonder how Carlos got away with his date.
b, I wonder how Carlos got on with his date.
2. a, They went to a new art gallery, didnt they?
b, They went to a new art gallery, did they?
3. a, It sounds like a nightclub.
b, It sounds as a nightclub.
4. a, I didnt thought it was art.
b, I didnt think it was art.
5. a, I didnt understand anything.
b, I didnt understand nothing.
6. a, Sarah was so embarrassed.
b, Sarah was so embarrassing.
7. a, Take her somewhere you want to go.
b, Take her somewhere you want go.
8. a, Hes such a sweet little boy.
b, Hes such sweet a little boy.



Vocabulary Task
Match up
Match the words in A and B to make compound nouns from the recording.
A B
last match
art club
contemporary night
night gallery
little art
football boy

Vocabulary Task 2
Select the right word
Choose the correct preposition in each sentence.
1. I wonder how Carlos got off / on with his date.
2. He went out / to with Sarah last night.
3. Sarah was talking to another man, so I went down / up to them
4. Ask her away / out again!
5. Dont worry Olivia Ill look to / after him.
6. They were supposed to look like / as photographs.
7. Im just glad youve made to / up with Bindyu.
8. They get in / on together really well.



Audio Script
Fadi: So, I wonder how Carlos got on with his
date.
Johnny: His date?
Fadi: Yeah...come on. You remember he
went out with Sarah last night...
Johnny: Oh yeah, sure they went to a new art
gallery, didnt they?
Fadi: Yeah thats right... he was really
worried about it.
Johnny: Im not surprised. Sarah likes all that
strange contemporary art.
Fadi: And here he is to tell us all about it!
Carlos: Hi guys!
Johnny: Hello there! So? How did it go?
Carlos: How did what go?
Fadi: Come on! Your date with Sarah! How
was it?
Carlos: Oh, er, well erm...
Johnny: Oh no...
Fadi: Was it a disaster?
Carlos: Oh, no... erm, not a disaster...
Johnny: Go on...give us details...
Carlos: Well, it was at this new art gallery
Fadi: Yeah?
Carlos: Black Box it was called...
Johnny: Hmmm... sounds more like a nightclub.
Carlos: There were quite a lot of people there,
and everyone was really fashionable...
Carlos: Yeah... everyone was wearing black! I
felt really scruffy...
Johnny: Scruffy?
Fadi: Yeah, scruffy badly dressed...
Johnny: So what was the art like?
Carlos: Art? I didnt think it was art... there were
some TVs showing some pictures of a
man walking around an empty room...
Fadi: Great...
Carlos: Then there were some big photographs
on the walls...
Johnny: Ok I like photography...
Carlos: Yeah, me too but there were all
blurred, out of focus you couldnt see
what they were photographs of... So, I
was trying to be interested, you know, to
impress Sarah really...
Fadi: Of course...
Johnny: What was Sarah doing?
Carlos: Well, Sarah was talking to another man,
so I went up to them. Sarah introduces
me, and then he says What do you
think? and I said, Well, I think the
photographs are all out of focus...
Fadi: Fair enough...
Carlos: But then the man, he gets really angry,
and walks off...
Johnny: Oh...
Carlos: And Sarah looks really embarrassed...
Fadi: Why?
Carlos: It turns out, well, this man, he was the
artist...
Fadi & Johnny: Oh no...
Carlos: And they werent even photographs...
they were paintings, supposed to look
like photographs... Sarah explained it all
to me, but I didnt understand anything...
I felt so stupid... and Sarah was so
embarrassed...
Fadi: Are you going to see her again?
Carlos: Well, I dont know... Id like to... I hope
so...



Johnny: Ask her out again but this time, take
her somewhere you want to go...
Fadi: Good idea...
Carlos: Where?
Johnny: Take her to a football match Ive got
tickets for this weekend. You can have
them.
Carlos: But I dont like football.
Fadi: Go on! Its a great British experience...
Johnny: Yeah... look, I know Sarah shell love
it!
Carlos: Er... well, ok then... Ill ask her...
Fadi: Oh no... look who it is!
Johnny: Hey Joe! Wheres Olivia?
Bindyu: Joe! Hes so funny... such a sweet little
boy...
Olivia: Joe! Stop that! Sorry everyone...
Bindyu: Dont worry Olivia Ill look after him.
Hes so much fun!
Johnny: Did Harry fix your website?
Olivia: He did...
Harry: Of course I did! Im an expert!
Olivia: Thanks Harry... I owe you a coffee, at
least...
Harry: No problem Im just glad youve made
up with Bindyu...
Fadi: Oh yeah? So youre all friends now?
Harry: Oh yes.
Olivia: She came last night, and looked after
my little nephew Joe. They get on
together really well!
Johnny: Whod have thought it?
Olivia: Not me, but there you go...
Johnny: Harry perhaps you and Bindyu should
have children!
Harry: Erm, no, not yet, I dont think...

Answers
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-small-world/series-2-episode-12-something-common
Series 2 Episode 12:
Something in Common
Introduction
x Before you listen
x Vocabulary Task
Carlos and Sarah's second date doesn't turn out great either. Will
their relationship work out? Written by Chris Rose.
x Grammar Task
x Grammar Task 2
x Vocabulary Task 2
x Audio script
Before you listen
1.awful 2. crazy 3. sweet 4. in common
5.surprise 6. stupid 7. come out 8. realise
Definitions:
a. Sharing an interest
b. To be made available
c. Very bad
d. To suddenly know something
e. Without any intelligence
f. Mad, insane
g. Lovely, nice
h. An unexpected event
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Big City Sm Big City
This support pa This support
xx Bef
xx Compre Com
xx Vocabulary Vocabul
xx Gramm Grammaar Task r Tas
Grammar Task 2 Grammar Task
Vocabulary Task 2 ocabulary Task 2
udio script
bulary activity below befo lary activity below b
rstanding. Finally, practis anding. Finally, practis
boxes to the definitions. oxes to the definiti
3. sweet eet
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Comprehension Task
Choose the correct sentence.
Which sentence is true?
1. a) Sarah and Carlos date was a disaster.
b) Sarah and Carlos date was a success.
2. a) Both Sarah and Carlos like football.
b) Neither Sarah nor Carlos like football.
3. a) Carlos doesnt like Sarah.
b) Carlos likes Sarah.
4. a) Magda thinks Carlos is horrible.
b) Magda thinks Carlos is nice.
5. a) Olivia wants Sarah to go the cinema with Carlos.
b) Olivia wants Sarah to go to a concert with Carlos.
6. a) Fadi and Olivia are going to look after Joe.
b) Fadi and Olivia are going to go out together.
problem success time match
idea film joke date
Fill in the Gaps
Fill in the gaps in the summary with the nouns in the box.
Sarah and Carlos have been on a ________
1
but it wasnt a ________
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.
The ________
3
is that they went to see a football ________
4
and neither of them actually like
football. It isnt clear whose ________
5
it was to go to a football match but it was probably Fadis idea
of a ________
6
.
Now, they are going on another date. This time they are going to the cinema to see a new ________
7
that has just come out. Both of them like cinema so this ________
8
things should turn out better!
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either Sarah nor Carlos
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blem success tim
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Grammar Task
Look at these three extracts from the recording and complete the rules with the words something or
anything.
You have something in common.
I'm not doing anything.
Are you doing anything?
Rules:
We use _______
1
in affirmative sentences.
We use _______
2
in negative sentences and questions.
Now complete the dialogue using anything or something.
A. Is there ____________
3
to eat?
B. No, there isnt ____________
4
left. We need to go shopping.
A. We can buy ____________
5
on our way out later.
B. But I dont want to carry ____________
6
while we are out.
A. OK, Ill go and buy ____________
7
now and you can do ____________
8
to help.
B. What?
A. Dont worry, I dont want you to do ____________
9
difficult, just wash the dishes!
B. OK.
Vocabulary Task
Choose the best adjectives to complete the sentence. Remember that some adjectives use very, but
strong adjectives (absolute adjectives) do not.
1. I really enjoyed that it was very
a) awful. b) bad. c) excellent. d) good.
2. Have you heard their new album? It's at least as good as the last one -absolutely
a) awful. b) bad. c) great. d) free.
3. I don't like football; it's
a) boring. b) crazy. c) great. d) sweet.
4. Well, he told me that it was cold and rainy all week. It sounds like the weather was absolutely
a) awful. b) bad. c) good. d) great.
5. I like her new boyfriend; he treats her very well. He's very
a) awful. b) boring. c) sweet. d) excellent.
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in affirm
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________ left. We
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6. Oh, don't go and see that movie. The story is unbelievable and the jokes are very bad it's really
a) boring. b) funny. c) good. d) stupid.
7. There's a cool new art gallery opening soon. It sounds very
a) boring. b) excellent. a) great. b) interesting.
8. Ugh! What a disappointment! That meal at the expensive new restaurant was absolutely
a) bad. b) disgusting. a) excellent. b) sweet.
Audio Script
Olivia: Hi Sarah!
Sarah: Hi!
Magda: How are you?
Sarah: Oh, not bad, I suppose
Bindyu: Whats up?
Sarah: Nothing really... just that... well, I hope
Carlos isnt coming in today...
Olivia: Why not?
Sarah: Well, he took me out on a date last
night.
Magda: Great!
Bindyu: Thats the second time youve been out
together, isnt it?
Sarah: Yes and itll be the last!
Olivia: Oh no! What happened?
Sarah: Well, he asked me to go out with him,
but didnt tell me where we were going...
Magda: Ooh... a surprise how great!
Sarah: No it wasnt great!
Olivia: Where did he take you?
Sarah: To a football match!!!
Magda: Oh. I didnt know you liked football...
Sarah: I dont! I hate it!
Olivia: Who was playing?
Sarah: I dont know... one team in red, the other
team in blue... it was so boring!
Olivia: Why did he take you there?
Sarah: I dont know the stupid thing is, he
doesnt like football either!
Olivia: I think I know why he took you... Hello
Fadi! Hello Johnny!
Fadi/Johnny: Hi all!
Olivia: Can I ask you two a question?
Fadi: Sure...
Olivia: Was it your idea for Carlos to take
Sarah to a football match?
Fadi: Erm, er...
Johnny: It was Fadis idea...
Fadi: No it wasnt! It was your idea!
Olivia: OK, OK, enough.
Fadi: So, Sarah did you have a good time?
Sarah: Hmmmphhh.
Johnny: I think that means no.
Sarah: It was awful.
Fadi: Poor Carlos.
Johnny: Yeah hes crazy about you!
Magda: I think hes so sweet.
Bindyu: Yeah, he is. You should try going out
with him again...
Sarah: No way.
Magda: Go on! Give him another chance!
Sarah: I dont know... Im not sure...
Bindyu: Oh... here he is now!
Carlos: Hello everyone!
All: Hi Carlos!
Carlos: How are you all today?
All: Great! Fine! Not bad...
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Audio Script Audio Script
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ou should try going out
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Olivia: So I hear you and Sarah went out
again last night?
Carlos: Oh, erm, yeah... I dont want to talk
about it...
Johnny: Sorry perhaps our great idea wasnt
so great after all...
Carlos: No. It wasnt.
Olivia: Never mind ask her out again.
Carlos: No way.
Olivia: Ok. Ill do it for you then!
Carlos: No!
Olivia: Yes!
Carlos: Oh no...
Olivia: Hey, Sarah Ive just seen theres a
great new film coming out this
weekend...
Sarah: Oh yeah? Sounds good I love cinema.
Why dont we go together?
Olivia: OK... oh! No... Ive just realised I cant
go to the cinema this weekend. I have to
look after Joe...
Bindyu: Id love to come, but Im helping Olivia
with Joe...
Johnny: Im working all weekend... as usual!
Fadi: Yeah Id go, but Im playing football
with Harry.
Carlos: Im not doing anything. I love cinema.
Sarah: I didnt know you liked cinema! You
never told me...
Olivia: Excellent! Carlos can go with you! You
have something in common.
Sarah: Oh well... erm... OK then...
Carlos: Great Im looking forward to it!
Olivia: Fadi are you really playing football
with Harry this weekend?
Fadi: Yeah... only on Saturday afternoon
though...
Olivia: So youre free on Saturday night?
Fadi: Erm, yeah...
Olivia: Youre not going out with one of your
girlfriends?
Fadi: Erm, no...
Olivia: Well, Bindyu will look after Joe on
Saturday night.
Fadi: So?
Olivia: So Im not doing anything on Saturday
night...
Fadi: Oh...
Olivia: Look I mean why dont we go out
together?
Fadi: Us? Me and you?
Olivia: Yes.
Fadi: Erm... er... OK... yeah! Great! Lets go
out for something to eat!!!
Olivia: Finally! I thought youd never ask!!!
All: (laughter)
Answers
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1
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c
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2
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3
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a
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5
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6
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b
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8
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4
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b
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5
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a
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6
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b
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(laughter)
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Introduction
To listen to the recording, go to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-
small-world/series-3-episode-1-burglary
Big City Small World S3 E1 A Burglary
1. Before you listen: Vocabulary match up
2. Audio script
3. Comprehension Task
4. Grammar Task: Verb Forms
5. Vocabulary Task: Phrasal Verbs
6. Grammar: Tenses
Before you listen
We suggest you do the vocabulary activity below before you listen. Then listen to the episode and
do the first task to check your understanding. Finally, practise some vocabulary and grammar.
a) a break-in (n) b) a thief (n) c) to nip into (somewhere)
d) a dustbin (n) e) a burglary (n) f) upset (adj)
Definitions:
1. A theft from a house or shop when no one is there
2. Someone stealing from your house (colloquial)
3. Someone who steals something.
4. Not happy
5. To go into a place for a short time
6. A big bin
upset (adj)
pack contai
you listen: Vo
sion Task
Verb Forms
Phrasal Verb
below before y
lly, practise
definitions.
c) to nip
n
c
i
l
.
o
r
g
/
l
e
a
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n
g
n
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g
/
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e
a
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e
n
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l
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h
BCSW Series 3 Episode 1 A Burglary
Audio script
Tony: Oh no... Oh no... I dont believe it!
Harry (still outside): Lets just nip into the caf for
breakfast.
Bindyu: OK, sure.
Harry (entering): Hi there, Tony! Whats the
problem?
Tony: Just have a look!
Harry: Ermm... Everything looks normal to me!
Olivia: Hi, everyone! Just thought Id nip in to get a
coffee before work... er... whats going on?
Bindyu: Tonys upset about something.
Olivia: I cant see anything unusual.
Harry: Me neither.
Tony: What?! Are you mad? Look all these cups
are broken!
Olivia: Oh, yeah. Now you mention it...
Tony: And look at the mess here!
Harry: Some broken plates on the floor.
Tony: The dustbins!
Fadi: Hi, all! Whats going on? Whats wrong with the
dustbins?
Tony: Theres rubbish everywhere!
Bindyu: Oh yeah.
Magda Hi, all!
Sarah: Whats up?
Tony: Theres been a break-in!
Harry: A burglary?
Olivia: Thieves?
Magda/Sarah: Oh no!
Olivia: Has anything been stolen?
Magda: Quick! Check!
Tony: I never leave any money in the caf overnight,
so thats not a danger.
Harry: Is there anything else? Anything valuable?
Tony: Well, there were those special pieces of fish.
All: Fish?
Tony: Yeah... I had some really nice fish.
Carlos: Hey, everyone! Whats going on?
All: Blimey! What?!! Whats that?!
Harry: Who the...?
Sarah: What the...?
Fadi: How did...?
All: A cat!!????
Olivia: Theres your burglar!
Tony: That explains the fish.
Johnny: Hello all! Ooohhh. Hello, puss! Is this the
new caf cat?
OK
(entering):
ave a look!
erything looks
st thought Id n
whats going on
ething.
Tony
Carlos: Hey
Blimey! What?!
th ? Who the...?
he...?
Comprehension Task
Choose the correct word in each sentence.
1 Harry suggests going into the caf for lunch / breakfast.
2 Tony is angry / upset.
3 The cups and plates are broken / missing.
4 Tony never / usually keeps money in the caf overnight.
5 A dog / cat is responsible for the mess.
Vocabulary Task 1
Fill in the gaps with a preposition below.
on with into in to at
1 Lets nip... the caf.
2 Everything looks normal... me.
3 Look... the mess here!
4 Whats going...?
5 Theres been a break-...!
6 Whats wrong... the dustbins?
Vocabulary Task 2
Choose the correct spelling.
1 breakfast / brekfast
2 mes/ mess
3 rubbish / rubish
4 everywhere / evrywhere
5 theives/ thieves
6 special/ especial
7 burgler / burglar
ny is ang
e cups and p
never / usua
is responsib
k 1 sk 1
eposition be
Grammar Task
Choose the correct sentence (a or b).
1a I dont believe it!
1b Im not believing it!
2a What is going on?
2b What goes on?
3a Therell be a break-in.
3b Theres been a break-in.
4a Had anything been stolen?
4b Has anything been stolen?
5a I had some really nice fish.
5b I was having some really nice fish.
A
n
s
w
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s
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:
1
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e
;

2
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a
;

3
.

b
;

4
.

f
;

5
.

c
;

6
.

d

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:
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b
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;

3
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4
.

n
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;

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2
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t
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3
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4
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6
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.

Big City Small World S3 E2 A Prize
Introduction
To listen to the recording, go to:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/big-city-
small-world/series-3-episode-2-prize
1. Before you listen: Vocabulary match up
2. Audio script
3. Comprehension Task
4. Grammar Task: verb forms
5. Vocabulary Task: spelling
6. Vocabulary Task: phrasal verbs
Before you listen
We suggest you do the vocabulary activity below before you listen. Then listen to the episode and
do the first task to check your understanding. Finally, practise some vocabulary and grammar.
1. A prize (n.) 2. Shy (adj.) 3. A decision (n.)
4. Doorway (n.) 5. Proud (adj.) 6. Champagne (n.)
Definitions:
a. The space where a door hangs.
b. Expensive fizzy white wine from an area of France.
c. An award for winning a competition.
d. Timid.
e. Feeling good about something you have achieved.
f. A choice.
pack contai
you listen: Vo
on Task
b forms
verbs
before you lis
practise some
s.
3. A decis
c
i
l
.
o
r
g
/
l
e
a
r
n
e
n
g
l
i
Champagn
o
r
g
/
l
e
a
r
n
e
n
g
l
i
s
h
g
/
l
e
a
r
n
e
n
g
l
i
s
h
Transcript
Magda: Hi, everyone!
Sarah, Olivia: Hi! Hello there!
Magda: Could I have a coffee, please, Tony?
Tony: As usual?
Magda: Yeah. By the way, do you have any
champagne?
Tony: Champagne? Not in this caf, Magda! Wrong
place, sorry!
Olivia: Did I hear you asking for champagne,
Magda?
Magda: Yes you did!
Sarah. What are you celebrating?
Magda: Well, nothing yet.
Olivia: Go on!
Magda: The company I work for ...
Sarah: Your architects company?
Magda: Yeah weve been listed for a prize!
Sarah: Hey thats great!
Olivia: Listed? So you havent won the prize yet?
Magda: No but were in with a good chance!
Sarah: When will you find out if youve won?
Magda: Really soon Im expecting a phone call
any minute!
Sarah: Wow! How exciting!
Olivia: Fingers crossed!
Sarah: So, Olivia tell me. How are things going
with Fadi? Have you been out with him again?
Olivia: Oh ... well ... you know ...
Magda: Go on! Tell us everything!
Olivia: Theres nothing to tell! Really! Yeah, weve
been out a couple of times, we went to a movie last
night, but were just good friends.
Sarah: Just good friends?
Olivia: Yeah really! I like him, hes great, but
nothing more than that.
Magda: Im not sure I believe you!
Olivia: Its true! Anyway, lets change the subject
how are things going with you and Carlos, Sarah?
Sarah: Oh, OK.
Olivia: Come on! Whos being shy now?
Sarah: Its great, actually. I mean, were really
different as people, but we get on so well together.
Magda: Sounds good
Sarah: Yeah, it is, but I mean its difficult. He doesnt
really like his job here hes thinking about going
back to Brazil soon. I dont know if I want to go there!
Olivia: Decisions, decisions.
Sarah: Is that you, Magda?
Magda: Yes, it is. Now Ill find out if weve won ...
Sarah/Olivia: (squeal of excitement)
Magda: Hello? Yes. Yes. Oh. So? Erm, I see. And?
Yes? YES!!!!!!!
Sarah/Olivia: Hooray!!!!!
Sarah: You did it!
Magda: Yes! We won!
Olivia: Fantastic! Well done!
Sarah: So was this a building you designed?
Magda: Erm, no, not exactly ...
Olivia: But you designed a lot of it?
Magda: Erm, no, not exactly ...
Sarah: The doorway?
Magda: No.
Olivia: The windows?
Magda: No.
Sarah: What did you design, then?
Magda: Erm, actually, just the handles. On the
doors.
Sarah: Oh.
Olivia: The door handles?
Magda: Yes.
Olivia: I see.
Sarah: Well, thats good! Door handles are
important! You should be proud!
Magda: Yes. I guess so. Its a start!
Tony: Sorry, girls no champagne, but Ill put extra
sugar in your coffee. Free!
Olivia (sarcastically): Thanks, Tony!
pagne?
: Champagn
sorry!
id I hear you as
did!
u celebrating?
for ...
a prize!
e yet?
Magd
Olivia: B
Magda: Erm
rah: The doo
a: No.
indo he windows?
you design, t
ly, just the han
Comprehension Task
Which of these sentences are true, and which false?
1. Magda orders champagne.
2. Magda is expecting a phone call.
3. Carlos loves his job.
4. Magdas company didnt win the prize.
5. Magda designed the windows and doors.
6. Tony gives the girls a bottle of champagne.
Vocabulary Task 1
Complete the summary using the words below.
sugar company door champagne
prize chance friends
Magdas architects (1) ........ has been listed for a (2) .......... She thinks they are in with a good (3)
........ of winning so she orders (4) ............ The girls discuss their relationships. Olivia says that her
and Fadi are just good (5) .......... Sarah says that she and Carlos are very different people. The
girls find out that Magda only designed the (6) .......... handles on the building. Tony offers
everyone extra (7) ..........
Vocabulary Task 2
Choose the correct spelling.
1 champagne / champange
2 architect / arcitect
3 dificult / difficult
4 desing / design
5 actualy / actually
arlos love Carlos love
das compan
esigned the w
e girls a bottle
words below
ampagne
for a (2) ....
rls discuss the
e and Carlos
andles on th
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!
Answers
Pre-listening:
1. c; 2. d; 3. f; 4. a; 5. e; 6. b
Comprehension:
1. T; 2. T; 3. F; 4. F; 5. F; 6. F
Vocabulary 1:
1. company; 2. prize; 3. chance; 4.
champagne; 5. friends; 6. door; 7.
sugar
Vocabulary 2:
1. champagne; 2. architect; 3. difficult;
4. design; 5. actually
Grammar:
1. are you celebrating; 2. for; 3. won
the prize; 4. any; 5. weve; 6. should be
a
r
n
e
n
g
l
i
s
h

y
o
u

h
a
v

y e
x
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a

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/

t
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e

p
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c
i
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.
o
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g
/
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a
r
n
e
n
g
l
i
s
h
chance; 4.
s; 6. door; 7.
mpagne; 2. architect;
sign; 5. actually
rammar:

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Big City Small World Series 01 Episode 01

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