| Level | Topic | Speakers | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy | Gambling | Man – Woman | 01:00 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
What are the reasons why people gamble? Is gambling legal where you live?
-
- Gambling is just a fun way to spend time.
- People should be allowed to gamble if they are over 18.
- It’s okay to visit a casino as long as you don’t spend too much.
- Casinos help the local economy by bringing jobs and tourists.
- Playing games for money is never a good idea.
- Some people can gamble without any problems.
- Gambling is worse than other ways of spending money for fun.
- Watching others gamble can be just as exciting as playing.
- Casinos should give free food and drinks to players.
- You can’t win at gambling unless you’re lucky.
Idioms
“strapped for cash” = short of money
“I’m a little strapped for cash, so I can’t eat out very often.”
“come into money” = get money suddenly
“Steve came into money when his father passed away last year.“
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:
- get rid of (verb): throw away, dispose of, use up
– Let’s get rid of this old table. One of the legs is broken. - buck (noun): informal for dollar
– Could I borrow a couple of bucks for lunch?
Post-Listening Exercise
Retell the conversation with a partner. What do you think the man will do next?
Online Investigation
Use the internet to find reasons for and against gambling. What are your personal thoughts on the topic after you read these ideas?