Language points1.every time/each time…. 每一次 , 每当=whenever…. Whenever we see him we speak to him. In fact, she had never learnt the basic rules of social communication, and as a consequence, she made systematic mistakes every time she opened her mouth.2.put one’s foot in one’s mouth I’ve really put my foot in it this time. I didn’t realise that he was the director of the play.3.as a consequence=as a result4.be cautious about…5.go through 经历 , 经受 , 仔细检查 , 用完 , 被通过 The country has gone through too many wars. The plan must through several stages. The new law has gone through Parliament.6.cheer up 使振奋 , 感到振奋 Cheer up! The news isn’t too bad.7.I’d rather not do…8.on the anniversary of…9.When someone talks, everyone is expected to listen, no matter how dull the person’s speaking may be.10. be aware of …. 知道 , 意识到 Everybody is aware of the importance of the Four Modernizations.11.take the lead 为首 , 带头 We should take the lead in studying the highway code12.show off 炫耀 , 卖弄 , 使显眼 13.It is estimated/reported/said/announced/suggested that… It is estimated that 80% of all conversation in English is small talk. It is suggested that some measures be taken to stop pollution.14.Imagine a situation where two strangers are talking to each other after someone they both know has left the room, or the cafe or party, etc.15. have sth. in common The two brothers have so much in common. People usually thought they were from the same city. Actually they had nothing in common.Dear Alex, It’s very nice to hear from you. My family and I are fine. I hope you and your family are well—it’s a long time since I’ve heard from you. The email is very interesting. I hope you enjoy your trip to the Embassy and it’s fun meeting the Chinese students and teachers. I don’t think you’ll have any problem talking to them. Chinese students are like students everywhere-- they like sport, music, fashion, and travel—so it will be easy foryou to finish topics that they are interested in. For many of them it will be their first time in England, so you could ask them about where they’ve been, what they’ve seen, what they liked and didn’t like, and what they found interesting. It’s also not a problem to ask about life at home in China. I’m sure they’d be happy to tell you about what Chinese schools are like and how they spend their free time. Of course, it’s always a good ideato keep off topics like politics, as people have different opinions, and they may not agree with you. I hope this information has been useful, and I wish you the best of luck at the Chinese Embassy– be sure to write and tell me all about it! Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Your friend Chen
