| Level | Topic | Speakers | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficult | Anniversaries | Man – Woman | 01:46 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
What are some common ways to celebrate your anniversary? What do people do, where do they go, and what gifts do they buy for their spouses?
Idioms
“once in a blue moon” = very rarely
“We go on vacation once in a blue moon.”
“grab a bite (to eat)” = have a light meal
“I grabbed a bite before I got to work.”
Listening Exercise
Listen to the recording and answer the questions. (See transcript)
Vocabulary and Sample Sentences
Here are some words and expressions that appear in the recording:
-
No way: unbelievable
– He really got married? No way! I thought he’d take that step. -
negotiate (verb): talk about the terms of an agreement
– The couple is trying to negotiate a divorce settlement. -
once in a blue moon: very rarely
– We go out to a nice restaurant once in a blue moon. -
wardrobe (noun): the clothing someone has
– His girlfriend buys a new wardrobe every few months. -
secondhand (adjective): not new, used by someone else
– The family bought secondhand clothing at a discount shop so they could save money. -
grab a bite (to eat): have a light meal
– Would you like to grab a bite this evening after work?
Post-Listening Exercise
There are many different customs and traditions for celebrating (or not) wedding anniversaries around the world. Explain one or two ways in which couples celebrate their wedding anniversary, whether it be the first, tenth, or fiftieth. What do people do? Where do they go? Are there special foods or events that people organize or attend?
Online Investigation
Imagine that you have been married for exactly one year. Plan the ideal date to celebrate your wedding anniversary. Use the internet to find the perfect gift and an expensive restaurant in your area. What if your partner forgot your wedding anniversary, how would you react? Discuss your findings with a partner.