Bookstore Shopping - Randall's ESL Cyber Listening Lab

Level	Topic	Speakers	Length
Easy	School Supplies	Man – Man	01:31

Pre-Listening Exercise

What are five items that students can buy from a bookstore to use for school?

Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!

These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.

In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.
In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?
For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and check your progress.

1. Every school should have a bookstore.
2. It’s better to buy books from a bookstore than online.
3. Bookstores should only sell books that students need for class.
4. Students are more likely to read books they choose themselves.
5. Bookstores should have snacks and drinks to make it more fun.
6. Used books are just as good as new ones.
7. Bookstores should stay open late so students can visit after class.
8. A bookstore is a good place to study.
9. Students don’t need bookstores if the library is good.
10. Bookstores should sell games and school supplies, not just books.

Idioms

“read someone like a book” = understand someone very well
“My teacher can read students like a book. He knows which students study, and which students don’t.“

“go by the book” = follow rules exactly
“If you always go by the book in your work, your company will trust you more.“

Listening Exercise

Listen to the recording and answer the questions. (See transcript)

Vocabulary and Sample Sentences

Here are some words that appear in the recording:

Something is coming up (phrasal verb): something is about to happen
– The final test is coming up soon. I need to prepare for it.
Time is passing (phrasal verb): Time is moving quickly
– Time passes when you are having fun.
Gotta go (modal of necessity): have got to go
– We (have) gotta buy books for class this afternoon.