Getting a haircut can be a nerve-racking (tense or scaring) experience, particularly when you don’t know what to say. What if you are getting a terrible haircut, and you can’t tell the hair stylist to stop? Listen to the words below and consult a dictionary if you need a definition. Write a sample sentence for each word to learn how it is used in context. You can use the Internet to find sample sentences.
Listening Exercise
A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.
blow dry
color (get/have your hair colored)
curl (get/have your hair curled)
cut (get/have your hair cut)
perm (get/have your hair permed)
shampoo
straighten (get/have your hair straightened)
style (get/have your hair styled)
thin out (get/have your hair thinned out)
trim (get/have your hair trimmed)
* Example: I’d like to get my hair cut (“get” is less formal than “have”)
cut a little above the ears
remove the split ends
take a little off the top and sides
trim your bangs
barber
beautician
hairstylist / hairdresser
hair salon
barber shop
Practice
Follow-Up Activity
What things do you consider when choosing a place to have your hair done? These factors might include price and the experience of the beautician. Use the Internet to compare two hair salons and then discuss what services they offer that are similar and different.
