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IDIOMS!
"mooch off of someone" = expect someone to pay your expenses

"Hey, now that you've turned 25, don't you think it's time to stop mooching off of mom and dad?"

"stay-at-home mom" = a mother who doesn't have a job outside the home

"My wife squirreled away enough money over the years to buy a new car."

IDIOMS!
"sky-high" = very expensive

"Prices on laptop computers used to be sky-high, but the cost has dropped significantly over the last few years."

"have a knack for somthing" = have a special or nature ability

"My younger brother has a real knack for fixing computers."

More of Randall's Favorite Learning Resources

[ Quiz Script | Text Completion Quiz ]
Computer Sales and Repairs
I. Pre-Listening Exercises
II. Listening Exercises
III. Vocabulary
IV. Post-Listening Exercises
V. Online Investigations

Level:Topic: Type:Speakers:Length:
mediumcomputer salesconversationtwo men 02:18

I. Pre-Listening Exercises [Top]

Buying a new computer can be a fun experience, but problems can arise. What are some common computer problems that people encounter when running their machines, and what issues can cause them? When you encounter such problems, what do you do to resolve them: seek help from a friend, consult a computer store, or read a computer book or magazine?

HELPFUL TIP: Computer problems can result when you download and install software that contains spyware, viruses, or bugs. Be sure to obtain software from trusted vendors and back up your data before you install new programs.

laptop computer

II. Listening Exercises [Top]
Listen to the radio advertisement by pressing the "Play Audio" button and answer the questions. Press the "Final Score" button to check your quiz.

Loading the player ...
[ What are these different audio choices? ]
[ Other Audio Options: Play RealMedia | Play Window Media ]

1. What is the man's main problem with his computer?
A. It crashes a lot.
B. His computer has a virus.
C. It has a lot of junk software.

2. What is the issue with the computer warranty?
A. The warranty has expired since he bought the computer.
B. The warranty isn't valid because didn't register the computer.
C. The warranty doesn't cover software issues and problems.

3. What can we infer from the first company's response to the caller?
A. They sent the man the wrong computer in the first place.
B. The company doesn't provide warranties for their products.
C. They are understaffed to handle customer complaints.

4. Which of the following is a main selling point for the second company being advertised?
A. Their products are the newest on the market.
B. The computers are cheaper than those sold by competitors.
C. The company manufactures secure and trustworthy machines.

5. What is the name of the second company?
A. Turbo Command
B. Turvo Computers
C. Turban Camando

Score =
Correct answers:

Listen to the conversation again as you read the Quiz Script.

III. Vocabulary Activities [Top]
Review the key vocabulary from the conversation: [ Why do these? ]

IV. Post-Listening Exercises [Top]

What things do you look for in a new desktop or laptop computer? Using your criteria, search for a computer vendor in newspaper advertisements or magazines that sells the product you want. Be prepared to explain your reasons, including price, quality, and service, for selecting the computer and the vendor you settled on.

V. Online Investigations - [ What's This? ] [Top]

Imagine that you need a computer or mobile device such as an iPad. Where would you find such a device online for a reasonable price? Find two online stores that sell the item and compare its price, the return policy of the company, and any reviews discussing its service. Then, decide which company would provide you the best service.

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