新视野大学英语视听说第三册听力8——10单元

Flying there is not half the fun II·Basic Listening Practice 1 Script

M：would you prefer a window or an aisle seat，madam?

W：Aisle，please．If there's none 1eft，then a wind。w seat is OK．But I don't like

middle seats。

Q: what is the order of the woman’s preference? C: aisle-wingdow-minddle 2 Script

M：I’d like to fly economy to Thailand on October 8th．1 want to book two tickets． W：we have only one seat left in economy，but we will give you two business class seats for the same price as one economy and，one business class seat． Q：What can the man get?

B: Two business class tickets at a reduced price 3 Script

M：Excuse me，where do I check in for British Airways to London? I can’t find the right check-in counter．

W：You should go to Counter 26 on the left-hand side．sir．It's just next to Thai

Air．You’d better hurry, though. There’s a long queue Q：What does the woman say? ”

C)The British Airways counter is counter26. 4．Script W：Airport security checks always make me nervous．I’m afraid I’11 set off the alarm because of the jewelry I’m wearing． ’

M：I know. I’ll set off the security alarm. I have a steel plate in my arm from a rugby

Injury.

Q：Why will the man set of the alarm? D)Because he has a metal plate in his body 5．Script M：Welcome home! Here，let me take your suitcase．The car is out in the parking lot． your plane was two hours late：you must be exhausted．

W：Yes，we have to check in three hours before take-off time；secufity guards take ages searching carry_0n stuff, but they ignore check-in baggage．Strange system． Q：What is the woman NOT complaining about? A)Security guards search her check-in suitcase III．Listening In

Task 1: the smaller the airport, the bigger the checkup

Paul：The airport security checks sometimes seem very strange to me． Sylvia：What do you mean?

Paul：I just completed an international flight．And with all the threats to security of travel today I expected to have my luggage searched． Sylvia：that’s understandable．I mean, with all the fear that’s out there about terrorism,

of course they’re going to check your baggage—especially your carry—ons．

Paul：I don’t mind them checking my baggage．In fact，I expect it．But there seems

to be an inverse ratio at work．

Sylvia：What on earth do you mean? They check everyone’s baggage，don’t they? Paul：Yes，but here’s what’s funny：The smaller the airport，the greater the security．The less likely a plane is to be hijacked，the more precautions they take． Sylvia：Are you serious? Why should a small airport be more aware of security than a

large one?

Paul：Here’s what I’ve experienced：Once at a small airport，they seized a roll of adhesive tape and argued that it could be used in hijacking．Then they asked me to remove my digital camera from its case and demonstrate that it could take pictures． Sylvia：And is this different from a large airport?

Paul：According to my experience，it is．When I flew from Vancouver to Paris，they simply ran my bags through the scanner, and 1 was on my way

Sylvia：If that’s the case，the baggage checking system is really strange．

Paul finds the airport security checks sometimes very strange．In an international flight he did expect to have his luggage searched．Sylvia agrees, knowing that with a11the fear that’s out there about terrorism，they will check passengers’ baggage—especially their carry-ons．In fact, Paul does not mind them checking his baggage but there seems to be an inverse ratio—at work：The smaller the airport, the greater the security. The less likely a plane is to be hijacked, the more precautions they take．Paul further says that once at a small airport, they seized a roll of adhesive tape to prevent hijacking．They also asked him to remove his digital camera from its case and demonstrate that it could take pictures．On the other hand，a large airport is different．When Paul—flew from Vancouver to Paris，they simply ran his bags through the scanner, and he was on his way. Finally, Sylvia admits that the baggage checking system is strange

Task 2: jet lag

Jet 1ag is the feeling of tiredness that comes after crossing time zones in an airplane．People get jet lag often，especially if they travel far．For example，a flight from New York to Beijing is a tong trip．Passengers will cross many time zones and may have a bad case of jet lag．However, there are some things that can help reduce jet lag．First．drink a lot of liquids．Water is the best liquid to drink．Also，eat low—fat foods during the flight．Noodles are always a good choice．Next，try to do some exercise on the plane．Walk around or stretch your muscles．Also，try to adjust your schedule to correspond with the local time as soon as you can．For instance, if you usually go to sleep at 10 p.m., then when the local time is 10 p．m．，go to bed．Finally，when you arrive at your destination．get some exercise．Ask the front desk clerk where the hotel’s gym is．Remember that if you adjust your schedule to correspond with the local time，your jet lag will not be too bad. In general, your body takes only a few days to reset its biological clock，and you’ll soon overcome jet lag． 1．T 2.F 3.F 4.F 5.T Task 3: $10 is $10

One day，an old man named Stumpy and his wife Martha went to the Illinois State Aviation Fair A man was selling plane tides for$10 per person．Stumpy was fascinated and said to，Martha，“I think we really should try that．”Martha replied，“I know you want to，Stumpy，but we have a lot of bills．You know the money is tight，and$10 is$10.” So Stumpy went without．Over the next few years they returned every year to the fair, and the same thing happened：Stumpy wanted a ride，but Martha said they couldn’t afford it．Finally，when Stumpy and Martha were both about 70 years old，Stumpy fixed his eyes on Martha and said，“Martha，I’m 70 now，and I don’t know if I’11 ever get the chance again，SO I just have to have a ride in that airplane．’’Martha replied in the same old fashion，and Stumpy became depressed．The pilot standing nearby overheard the conversation and he cut in，“Excuse me folks，I have a deal for you．I’11 take both of you up together，and if you can both make the entire trip without uttering a word．I’11 give you the ride for free．But if either of you makes a sound，it’s $1 0 each．”Martha and Stumpy looked at each other and agreed．The pilot took them up，and started to climb，spin，dive，climb and spin again．There was no sound．After the pilot landed the plane，he praised the old man，“1 want to congratulate you for not making a sound．You are a brave man．“Maybe SO，”said Stumpy，“but I got to tell you，I almost screamed when my wife fell out，but$10 is$10 1. A)what did the old man want?

B)He wanted to have a ride in the plane．

2．What reason did the old woman give for not riding in the plane? A)They had to pay a lot of bills．

3．What happened when the old man and woman were about 70 years old? C)The man wanted to fly but the woman did not want him to． 4．What deal did the pilot offer?

C)The couple could have a flee ride if neither of them made a sound during the

trip．

5．What happened to the old woman finally? D) She fell out of the plane IV. Speaking Out

MODEL 1 I'd like to book hotel and airline reservations. Travel agent: Horizon Travel, how may I help you?

Helen: This is Helen Parker. I'd like to book hotel and airline reservations. Travel agent: And what's your destination. Ms. Parker?

Helen: I'm headed for Las Vegas to attend an electronics trade show. Travel agent: OK. Can you spell your name, please? Helen: My last name is Parker, P-A-R-K-E-R, and my first name is Helen. Travel agent: Will you be traveling alone? Helen: Yes, I'll be traveling by myself.

Travel agent: Will that be a one-way or a round-trip ticket?

Helen: Return. I plan on leaving July 21st and coming back on the 30th. Travel agent: Will you be flying first class or business class?

Helen: No, no, not a chance. Economy class, the cheapest. If there's a three-star hotel located downtown, that would be great. If it has a pool, that's better still.

Travel agent: OK, let me check the computer. I can book your flight immediately. I'll have to inquire about the hotel reservation and call you back.

Helen: No problem. I'm at 658-0266, extension 513. I'll be expecting your call. Travel agent: OK, Ms. Parker. Thank you for your call. I'll get back to you soon. Bye

bye.

Helen: Bye

Now Your Turn

SAMPLE DIALOG

A: Globe Travel Agency, can I help you?

B: This is Linda Carter. I'd like to book hotel and airline reservations. A: Where are you going, Ms. Carter?

B: I'm headed for Toronto to attend an industrial exhibition. A: Could you spell your name, please?

B: My surname is Carter, C-A-R-T-E-R, and my given name is Linda.

A: Will you be traveling by yourself? B: No, Ill be traveling with my boss, James Adams. So I need two tickets and two rooms.

A: Would you like to have one-way or round-trip tickets?

B: Return tickets. But since we re not sure when we can come back, I prefer open tickets for the return journey.

A: Will you fly economy class or business class?

B: Business class, please. My boss always flies business class. If there's a five-star hotel located downtown, that would be great.

A: Well, let me check the computer. I can book your tickets right now. I'll have to

check the hotel reservation and call you back.

B: No problem. I'm at 58855200. I'll be expecting your call. A: OK. Thank you.

MODEL 2 Last week I flew non-stop to Sa~Francisco. Script

Nora: Hey John.

John:hey

Nora: I took a course on how the airport runs, and I don't suffer from fear of flying any more. Last week I flew nonstop to San Francisco. John: Congratulations! Which flight did you take? Nora: United Airlines, Flight UA858.

John: How did it go? Everything smooth sailing?

Nora: Not everything. Since I hadn't traveled by air for a long time, I wasn't familiar with the airport. It took me quite a while to find the United Airlines check-in counter. John: Then how did you find it?

Nora: In fact, it was displayed on the monitor: \"Flight UA858 c~/Counter 45.\"

John: And was everything OK once you found it?

Nora: No, there was a terrible line-up. I had to wait there for an hour.

John: I see. You must have been burned out waiting before you even boarded the plane.

Nora: That still wasn't the end of my troubles. When I finally got to the counter and handed in my passport and ticket, the airline agent looked at my passport and at me again and again.

John: Why? Did she think your passport was a fake?

Nora: I don't know. I just told her my photo did not flatter me at all. John: Your photo certainly doesn't do justice to your beauty.

Nora: She didn't say anything like that. Fortunately, when I asked for an aisle seat, she said she had one. You know, I wouldn't dare take a window seat and look out the window.

John: I prefer an aisle seat, too. Then I can stretch my legs and occasionally stand up in the aisle.

Nora: Finally she gave me a boarding pass, and it said that my flight would be boarding at Gate 33 in just minutes. So I had to run! John: That's bad luck. But you made it! Good for you.

Now Your Turn SAMPLE DIALOG

A: Hey, good to see you back. How was your trip? Everything smooth sailing? B: Not bad, though I had a little trouble before boarding.

A: What was wrong?

B: I was caught in a traffic jam and almost missed the flight. But I managed to get to the airport in time

A: Congratulations! Which flight did you take? B: British Airways, Flight BA 5.

A: Was it easy for you to find the right counter?

B: Yes, the information was displayed on the monitor.

A: Since there was not much time left for you, I hope there wasn't a terrible line-up at the counter.

B: Luckily, no. The queue was quite short. But I had another problem. A: What was that?

B: When I handed in my passport, the airline agent looked at it for a long time. A: Why? Did the agent think your passport was a fake?

B: No, she didn't, but she told me that my passport was going to expire in a week. So you see, I had to fly back quickly.

A: I hope that was the end of your troubles.

B: Not completely. I still had trouble with my baggage. A: What was the problem?

B: It was overweight. It took me a while to go through the procedure. A: Any good news before you boarded the plane?

B: Yes, when I asked for a window seat, I got one. You know, I wouldn't like to take

an aisle or middle seat where I couldn't enjoy the view.

A: I prefer an aisle seat, though. So that I can stretch my legs and occasionally stand

up.

B: Finally the agent gave me the boarding pass, and it said that my flight would be boarding at Gate 24 in just minutes. So I had to run! A: But you made it! Good for you

MODEL 3 I've got jet lag. Script

Susan: Wow! What happened? You look like something the cat dragged in. John: You would too if you’d been through what I have. I've got jet lag.

Susan: Jet lag's not for real, is it? It's like a \"broken heart\"-a figure of speech John: It’s for real. See my eyes? They’re all bloodshot. I can’t eat; I can’t sleep. Susan: How long does this jet lag last after you’re home again and walking round? John: I don’t know exactly. It can be a day for each hour’s difference in time. Susan: Ouch! At that rate it’ll take you twelve days to recover from the flight. John: Maybe a drink on the plane can ease your jet lag.

Susan: That's not a very good idea. Alcohol dries you out when it's combined with altitude and stale dry air in the cabin.

John: I wonder whether a long flight like that is worth the high cost.

Susan: Take my advice. Go by boat. Arrive rested and ready to enjoy your holiday. John: No, it'll take too long-longer than the time for me to reset my biological clock

after a flight.

Now Your Turn SAMPLE DIALOG

A: Wow! What's wrong with you? You look dead tired ~

B: You would too if you'd been through what I have. I've got jet lag. See my eyes: they're bloodshot. I can't eat; I can't sleep. A: How long will this jet lag last?

B: I don't know exactly. It can be a day for each hour's difference in time.

A: Ouch! At that rate it'll take you twelve days to recover. Maybe a drink on the plane can save you from jet lag.

B: That's not a good solution, I'm afraid. Alcohol dries you out when it's combined with altitude and stale dry air in the cabin. But if you drink a lot of water, it helps. A: let's check on the Internet to see how we can overcome jet lag quickly.

B: Look, here's an article. So you need to get some exercise. You can go to the gym to work out.

A: You should try to match your schedule with the local time. When it's time to go to bed but you don't feel sleepy, you might as well take sleeping pills.

B: When you feel sleepy in broad daylight, you can drink strong coffee to stay awake. A: In this way you can reset your biological clock quickly.

V. Let' Talk

Script

Before I conclude my talk, I'd like to summarize what we have covered.

Air travel has its inherent advantages. Airplanes fly fast, and they are now flying faster than before. Now supersonic passenger planes can fly across the Atlantic Ocean in just a couple of hours. It is reported that new models are being designed. In the future they may carry people from New York to London in less than an hour.

In the past not many people traveled by air because of the high fares. Now owing to the market competition, the fare has dropped a great deal, so more people are traveling by air. In the 1990s, the United States witnessed an explosive growth in demand for air travel. Many millions who had never, or rarely flown before, became regular passengers. They even joined frequent flyer loyalty programs, receiving free flights and other such benefits.

Flying has become increasing convenient. The introduction of new services and more frequent flights has meant that business flyers can fly to another city, do business, and return on the same day. This applies to almost any two points in the country.

Some passengers worry about safety in flying. In a crash there are usually no survivors. However, to prevent tragic accidents and serious financial loss, airlines are especially cautious in checking the conditions of aircraft to reduce the possibility of accidents to the minimum. It is sometimes claimed that flying involves fewer accidents than any other modes of travel.

Airplanes do have their disadvantages. For example, they are incapable of transporting large quantities of cargo.

Also, an airport can be quite far away from the city center. But the advantages of flying outweigh these small drawbacks, and flying remains an efficient kind of transportation.

That's the end of my lecture. Now may I take your questions if you have any?

Pros and Cons of Flying Pro 1 An airplane flies fast

(1) Supersonic passenger planes can fly across the Atlantic Ocean in just a couple of hours;

(2) In future they may carry people from Now York to London in less than an

hour.

Pro 2 The fare has dropped a great deal, so more people are traveling by air: Many

millions became regular passengers, and even joined frequent flyer loyalty programs.

Pro 3 Flying has become increasingly convenient: Business fliers can fly to another

city, do business, and return on the same day.

Pro 4 Airlines are cautious about checking the conditions of aircraft to reduce the possibility of

accidents to the minimum

Con 1 The plane is incapable of transporting large quantities of cargo. Con 2 An airport can be quite far away from the city center.

Dissussion SAMPLE

A: I like flying better than any other way of traveling. It's so fast and convenient that you can fly to another city, do business, and return on the same day, between almost any points in the country.

B: But land transport is not slow, thanks to superhighways. What's more, it's often cheaper.

A: I'll admit air fare is a bit high, but it's dropped a lot. The high speed and great convenience are worth the money.

B: Land transport is often safer. In case of accidents like a fire, you can jump out of the car. Can you jump our of a plane?

A: It's true that in a crash there are often no survivors. However, airlines are especially cautious in checking the conditions of aircraft. It's sometimes believed that flying involves fewer accidents than other kinds of travel.

B: The problem with a plane is that it can't transport large quantities of cargo.

A: I agree, but certainly a plane can carry perishable goods like fresh vegetables to a distant city quickly and safely.

B: But an airport is often quite far away from the city center. So that will add to your traveling time. You can’t fly directly to your final destination.

A: You have a point there. I know trucks can provide door-to-door delivery service, but buses and trains can't.

B: OK, let's come to this conclusion: each type of transport has its own advantages and disadvantages.

A: Yes, that's why none of them has been phased out.

VI. Further Listening and Speaking Task1:An Overview of Airlines Script

An airline is an organization which provides aviation services for passengers and cargo. It owns or leases airliners to supply these services and may form partnerships or alliances with other airlines for reasons of mutual benefits.

The scale and scope of airline companies range from those with a single airplane carrying mail or cargo, to full-service international airlines operating many hundreds of airplanes of various types. Airline services can be categorized as intercontinental, intra-continental, regional or domestic and may be operated as scheduled services or charters. These variations in the types of airline companies, their operating scope, and the routes they serve, make analysis of the airline industry complex. But one thing is certain: The industry is heavily influenced by the market now. In the past 50 years or so, the general trend of ownership has gone from government-owned or government-supported to independent, for-profit companies. This is a result of the government permit greater freedom. This trend is not yet consistent across all airlines in all regions. The demand for air travel services depends on other things: needs for

cargo transportation, business passenger demand, leisure passenger demand, which are all influenced by macroeconomic activity in the market. These trends are highly seasonal, and often depend on day-of-week, or time-of-day. The industry is cyclical. Four or five years of poor performance are followed by five or six years of gradual improvement in performance.

1.D 2 C 3.D 4.A 5.B

Task2:Results of Damage Testing Script:

Birds often cause accidents when they strike aircraft. To date no reliable method of avoiding birds has been discovered. But scientists at the NASA space center have developed a gun built to launch dead chickens at the windshields of airliners, military jets and the space shuttle, all traveling at their top speed. The idea is to reproduce the frequent incidents of collisions with birds to test the strength of the windshields.

Trains sometimes encounter similar problems with birds. It was not surprising that when British engineers heard about the gun, they were eager to test it on the windshields of their new high-speed trains.

Arrangements were made to borrow the gun. It was flown across the Atlantic and set up with great care near London. But when the gun was fired, the engineers stood shocked as the chicken flew into the shield, smashed it, went through the engineer's chair, and landed on the back of the car.

Horrified, the British sent NASA the results of the disastrous experiment, along with the designs of the new windshield. They begged the U.S. scientists to send them their suggestions for avoiding smashed windshields. NASA reviewed the test thoroughly and had one recommendation: \"Thaw the chicken.” Task3: Funny Flight Announcements Script:

Occasionally, airline crews try to make their announcements entertaining. Here are some examples that have been reported. One pilot delivered this welcome message: \"We are pleased to have some of the best flight attendants in the industry. Unfortunately none of them are on this flight.\"

One pilot said, \"Folks, we have reached our cruising altitude now, so I'm going to switch the seatbelt sign off. Feel free to move about as you wish, but please stay inside the plane till we land. It's a bit cold outside, and if you walk on the wings, it affects the flight pattern.\"

A Southwest Airlines employee said, \"In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have small children traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are traveling with two small children, decide now which one you love more.\"

Another flight attendant's comment on a less than perfect landing goes like this: \"We

ask you to please remain seated as Captain Kangaroo bounces us to the terminal.\" Still another attendant said, “As you exit the plane, please be sure to gather all of your

belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children or spouses. Last one off the plane must clean it.”

News Report

Paragliding for a Publishing Deal Script

An Australian writer-and paraglider-tried landing in front of Buckingham Palace last December to help him land a publishing deal.

In what looked like a scene from a James Bond movie, the paraglider, 36-year-old Brett de la Mare, was followed through the skies of central London by a police helicopter as he headed toward the palace-the London home of Queen Elizabeth II. The royal family was not present at the time, but police took the incident seriously, all the same. The helicopter tried to force the paraglider away, but in the end, he

succeeded in landing on the palace grounds. Police there promptly arrested him. This was no terrorist, however, as Police had feared. He was, rather, a writer trying to gain publicity to help publish a book, called “Canine Dawn”. Unable to get publishers interested in the book, he tried some new ways to get attention.

After the incident, de la Mare explained what happened to reporters. \"I came in over the fence, and I landed in the forecourt here, and the crowd started cheering. And I was arrested and dragged off.\" De la Mare said police had difficulty deciding what to charge him with: \"They initially… they arrested me for attempted burglary.. of ...Buckingham Palace... and of course, they dropped that. I mean, attempted burglary! I mean, it's hardly a discreet method of burglary...\" They later charged him with breaches of the Air Navigation Order.

De la Mare left a humorous message on his cell phone for callers: \"Hi, this is Brett. I'm sorry you missed me. I am incarcerated right now or something. Please leave me a

message, and I'll get back to you as soon as I am free.\"

UNIT 9

Here are the seasons to be jolly II. Basic Listening Practice 1. Script

W: Of all the holidays people celebrate, Christmas, Easter, Mother's Day...which are the most important to you?

M: Christmas and Easter, because they mark events in Jesus Christ's life: his birth and his escape from a tomb into heaven. The other festivals, I think, were mainly created to increase sales.

Q: How many holidays does the man believe to be important? C)Two 2. Script

M: I used to love giving my mother a present on Mother's Day. It always made her cry,

then she'd hug me hard enough to squeeze the breath out of me.

W: Mothers are really no different from anyone else. They love to be loved, that's all. Q: What was the mother's response to her son's gift? A)She was beside her-self with joy. 3. Script

M: Every country has its own unique holidays. There is one exclusive to some British Commonwealth countries like England, Australia and Canada. That' s Boxing Day. W: I know, and it's a perfect date for a holiday, being the day after Christmas Day. Apparently it began with the custom of giving the poor boxes of food; thus a boxing day.

Q: What was the origin of Boxing Day? B)Giving poor people food 4. Script

M: I absolutely hate Christmas shopping. I can never figure out what to buy for everyone, so I rush around like an idiot at the last minute, buying junk.

W: Then maybe you shouldn't buy any gifts. Just tell people \"Merry Christmas!\" instead.

Q: What does the woman mean?

D)She disagrees with the man .J 5. Script

M: When all the children come home for Christmas, there won't be enough room for

everyone...what shall we do? Maybe some will have to stay in a hotel.

W: I want them all here. We'll make it work. I can hardly wait to see everyone; it doesn't matter if we're a bit squished. We'll be like turkey stuffing. Q: What does the woman mean?

C)She won’t care if the children are crowded at home

III. Listening In

Task1:Expensive Holidays Script

Grace: So, Mark, what are you going to get me for Chinese Valentine's Day-a holiday

for the Cowherd and Girl Weaver to meet?

Mark: Sorry, I've never heard of it. Anyway, we already celebrated Valentine's Day in

February. I gave you a bunch of red roses.

Grace: But there's another lover's day in the world. Isn't it wonderful if lovers have

more than one lover's day a year? Mark: Do you mean I have to get you a present fort each lover’s day?

Grace: Well, you d better give me a present from time to time if you want to win my

heart.

Mark: I gave you a beautiful card on New Year's Day...and a Christmas gift a couple

of days before that. Then I invited you to a dinner on the Chinese New Year's Day, that is, the Spring Festival.

Grace: Thank you for that. Nowadays the Chinese Spring Festival is getting popular

here. And it's exciting.

Mark: But few people here know anything about a foreign Lover's Day. Grace: You see, I enjoy celebrating holidays again and again.

Mark: But it's hard on the wallet. I'll end up in the poor house at this rate.

Grace: But it's romantic! And don't forget it's only another month before my birthday. Mark: Your birthday was last month! I already bought you a ring!

Grace: That was my birthday on the Western calendar. Next month, it's my birthday

on the lunar calendar!

Grace asks what Mark is going to get her for the Chinese Valentine's Day, but Mark thinks he has already given Grace a bunch of roses for Western Valentine's Day in February. Grace objects that it is wonderful if lovers have more than one lover's day a year. She needs Mark's presents from time to time if Mark wants to win her heart. Mark mentions that he gave her a beautiful card on New Year's Day, a Christmas gift a couple of days before that, and invited her to a dinner on the Chinese Spring Festival, Although Grace loves celebrating holidays, Mark worries that it's hard on the wallet, and he will end up in the poor house at this rate. Finally Grace tells Mark not to forget her birthday on the lunar calendar, though she already received a ring from Mark for her birthday on the Western calendar.

Task2:April Fool’s Day Script

On a flight from the West Coast to the East Coast, the lead flight attendant was eager to get in early as her boyfriend, a pilot, was going to have a short stopover at the destination airport. She made a point of telling her fellow crew members about this. Because it was April 1st, April Fool's Day, the day people play tricks on one another, the captain decided to have a little fun.

About an hour before landing, he made an announcement that went like this: \"Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the captain speaking. I have a little bit of bad news. There're some thunderstorms at our destination, and they've currently closed the airport. They expect it to reopen in about thirty minutes to an hour. As one might expect, this will result in long delays. As we've come all the way from the West Coast, we don't even have enough fuel to circle until the airport reopens. Therefore, we are going to be diverting to Cleveland, and we should be landing in about thirty minutes. We'll take some fuel there and get you back on your way to our original destination. I’m terribly

sorry for the delay. However, we’11 get you there just as soon as possible.\" It was at this moment that you could hear someone running up to the cockpit. The cockpit door flew open, and sure enough it was the lead flight attendant mumbling something like, \"This can’t be happening. What shall I do?\" As she went on painfully, the captain made another announcement: \"Ladies and Gentlemen, happy

April Fool's Day!'\" T F T F F

Task3: The Wilsons’ Thanksgiving Script

Thanksgiving is one of America's most popular holidays. It is a day for expressing thanks for the good things in life. It is also a day for family reunion. On that day many people travel long distances to get together with their families. For many Americans, Thanksgiving is the time when all members of a family gather.

But not everyone can spend Thanksgiving with his or her family. Today we'll introduce you to a couple, Joan and Sandy Wilson, who could not afford to take time out to visit their parents one year. They regretted not being able to celebrate Thanksgiving with all their family members. But soon they met other people who also were separated from their families. So the Wilsons began holding a yearly Thanksgiving dinner for what they called their \"extended family\". This included people in their community. All the guests brought food to share for Thanksgiving dinner.

The group has grown over the years. To accommodate all the guests, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson now have to add small tables to their large one in the big dining room. At first, many of their friends brought their babies and young children. Now some of the first guests are grandparents.

Like many other Americans, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson and their visitors enjoy a long day of cooking, eating and talking. The traditional meal usually includes a turkey. Other traditional Thanksgiving foods served \"with turkey are sweet potatoes, cranberries and pumpkin pies.

1.A 2.D 3.C 4.B 5.C

IV. Speaking Out

MODEL 1 Eat, drink and be merry on Christmas.

Nora: My mother bought an enormous twenty-five pound turkey for Christmas dinner.

I'm so excited!

Susan: We have geese and ham for Christmas dinner on both Christmas Eve and Christmas night.

Nora: Our traditional Christmas dinner is a turkey, so gigantic that we eat leftovers for days.

Susan: Chris swears he'll refuse a huge dinner and stick to a healthy meal of tofu and salad.

Nora: No way. He's kidding! Wait till he sees what his mother cooks: roast turkey with

stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, peas and plum pudding for dessert! Susan: We heap up our presents under the tree and open them on Christmas morning. Nora: We open one Christmas Eve, more Christmas morning, and the rest the next day.

Susan: Wow! Your family prolongs the celebration for three days!

Nora: We start by decorating the tree on Christmas Eve, putting ornaments, lights and

artificial snow flakes on it.

Susan: Do you hang stockings by the fireplace and have a star on top of the tree? Nora: Yes. And we have another activity. We also \"give not expecting to get\". Susan: That's a peculiar expression. What do you mean by that?

Nora: It's secret giving. We sneak up to the door of somebody we want to give a gift

to, ring the doorbell, and run.

Susan: So, you're not expecting anything; you're just being generous. That's a

kind-hearted gesture.

Nora: Isn't that what the true spirit of Christmas is supposed to be?

Now Your Turn

SAMPLE DIALOG

A: If you want to know about Christmas, I can tell you that it's an occasion for family reunions.

Family members have dinner together.

B: That's also true of the Chinese Spring Festival.

A: Americans usually eat turkey for Christmas dinner. My mother bought an enormous twenty-five pound turkey for it. And our neighbors had goose and ham on both Christmas Eve and Christmas night.

B: Chinese have a huge dinner on the Spring Festival Eve. Usually a fish is served, because its pronunciation in Chinese means \"surplus\" or \"abundance\". We also eat a lot of meat and seafood.

A: A turkey is often so gigantic that we eat leftovers for days.

B: A Chinese dinner is known for many kinds of food. We simply can't eat them all at once. So we also eat leftovers for days.

A: Rich food isn't good for your health. Some Americans refuse a huge dinner and

stick to a healthy meal of salad. B: The same is true here in China. Some people prefer tofu and vegetables to meat. A: Another important part of Christmas is the gifts. We heap up our presents under the Christmas tree or put them in stockings. Children are excited about gifts. B: In China we give children money in a red envelope.

A: To enjoy a merry Christmas, Westerners exchange gifts, send Christmas cards, sing Christmas carols and throw parties.

B: The Chinese set off firecrackers and fireworks to add to the jubilant atmosphere. In some places they also stage dragon and lion dances. And they visit relatives during the festival.

A: Both the Spring Festival and Christmas are fascinating.

MODEL 2 The Pilgrims' spirit of Thanksgiving lives on. Script

Chris: Will Nora be spending Thanksgiving with us this year?

Susan: No, she's going home to spend the holiday with her mother and brother. She

hasn't seen her family in over a year.

Chris: I know how she feels. Thanksgiving is such a big family holiday in the States. Susan: It began as a celebration by the Pilgrims. They were happy just to have

survived their first harsh winter in the new land in 1621 \"

Chris: But wasn't that harsh winter followed by an abundant harvest? Susan: Yeah, that's good reason to celebrate: they had beaten the odds and were still

alive. It was a time to relax and \"count your blessings\".

Chris: You know, most cultures seem to have some sort of celebration like this--don't

the Chinese have a festival of moon cakes to celebrate the harvest month?

Susan: Yeah, they do. I believe the round moon cakes also symbolize a family reunion.

Chris: Well, today Thanksgiving in the States has developed into a major holiday.

Susan: True, it's a very emotional time. Families often travel great distances to be

together and share a huge dinner. Jamie's mother will have a turkey and a ham, corn-on-the-cob, yams, peas and carrots, and to top it all off, pumpkin pie. Chris: Just thinking about all that food makes my mouth water, and I think I'm going

to gain ten pounds this year.

Susan: But you have the rest of the year to lose those unwanted pounds. And losing

weight will give you something to be thankful for next Thanksgiving.

Now Your Turn

A: Will you be spending the Thanksgiving holiday with us this year?

B: No, I'm flying back to the States to spend the holiday with my mother and brother. I haven't seen my family for over a year. You see, Thanksgiving is a big family holiday

A: In China the Mid-Autumn Festival is also a holiday for family reunions. Do you happen to know the origin of Thanksgiving?

B: It began as a celebration by the Pilgrims. They were happy just to have survived their first harsh winter in the new land in 1621.

A: I'm not quite sure of the origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival, but it is said to have something to do with Lady Chang'er who flew to the moon. On a day of full moon her husband longed for her to return to earth. So this may have something to do with family reunions

B: Thanksgiving is also an occasion to celebrate the harvest. The Pilgrims' first harsh winter was followed by an abundant harvest. That was good reason to celebrate A: Most cultures have some sort of celebration of the harvest. In fact the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival is a festival to celebrate the harvest month, since fruits, vegetables and grain have been harvested by this time and food is abundant.

B: To observe Thanksgiving, Americans eat turkey, ham, corn-on-the-cob, yams, peas and carrots, and to top it all off, pumpkin pie.

A: Oh, just thinking about all that food makes my mouth water. We Chinese eat moon cakes to mark the occasion. The round moon cakes symbolize a family reunion B: Thanksgiving in the States has developed into a major holiday

A: The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most important festivals in China, too. It's sometimes believed to be the second most important holiday, next only to the Spring Festival.

MODEL 3 Don't let ghosts frighten you on Halloween Script

Susan: Hey Kim! Are you okay? You seem badly shaken. Where did you go'? Kim: Just to the corner, but I'm frightened out of my wits, scared silly, terrified. Susan: What happened? You said you were only going to the store for a coke.

Kim: People in funny costumes and masks everywhere! Some in tall, pointed hats.

Susan: It's October 31 st, Halloween, the day for dressing like witches and ghosts. Kim: In the store window is a big vegetable with a carved face and candle inside. Susan: It's a pumpkin. A face and a candle burning inside make it a Jack o' Lantern. Kim: A crowd of children followed me shouting, \"Tickle your feet.\" Imagine! Susan: No, they said, \"Trick or Treat?\" They were hoping you'd give them candy. Kim: Welt, it's a funny kind of holiday. What's it called? Halloween?

Susan: Yeah, it's one of the oldest holidays in the West. Today it's mostly for children. Kim: I myself would never dress like a ghost and shout, \"Tickle your feet.\"

Now Your Turn SAMPLE DIALOG

A: Are you okay? You look terrible! Where did you go? B: Just to the comer, but I'm frightened out of my wits.

A: What's up? You said you were only going to the store for a coke. B: All over people wore strange clothes and masks, with some in tall, pointed hats .I was scared silly when a guy with a bloody mask jumped out from a street comer all of a sudden.

A: Ah, it's October 31st, Halloween, the day for dressing like witches and ghosts. B: I was terrified when kids gave out horrible cries like ghosts. A: Don't worry. They meant no harm. They did that just for fun. B: A group of children came over to me shouting, \"Trick or treat?\" A: They were hoping you'd treat them with candy. B: Well, I didn't know that, so I simply ignored them. A: Then they'd play a trick on you, I guess.

B: Exactly, they threw eggs at my car window. It's a funny kind of holiday. What's it called? Halloween?

A: Yes, it's one of the oldest holidays in the West. Today it's mainly for kids. B: I myself will never dress like a ghost and shout, \"Trick or treat?\"

V. Let'sTalk Script

Young men and women, tomorrow will be Mother's Day. Some of you are still wondering what to do for your mom. Here's my advice.

Look out for anything that she plans to buy, and buy it if you can afford it. For example, a casual dress or formal office wear. Or, it may be a unique hair clip. Find out if she is planning to get a new microwave or a new steam iron, and buy it for her if you can afford it. But don't forget to add a personal touch, and buy perfume or a bouquet of flowers as an add-on to the most practical gifts.

You can get some ideas by considering what her likes and dislikes are. If she likes cats, how about giving her a pet or something that has a picture of a cat on it? But make sure she doesn't find out that you're getting her a present. Let her gift be a pleasant surprise.

Definitely spend some time with her, especially if you are not living with her. Make her feel special. For example, you can cook a special dish for the day. You can also throw a little party and invite those who are close to her.

And of course, if she enjoys outings, take a little trip with her. And if possible with your entire family. She'll love it for sure. After all, she is the one who takes care of all of you. A special trip to the countryside Gould show her how much you care for her. If she is happy, I'm sure you'll feel happy, too. What to Do for Details or Examples Mom Look out for For example, a casual dress or a formal office wear. Or. it may anything that she be a hair clip with a touch of difference. Check out if she is plans to buy. planning to get a new microwave or a new steam iron. Try to be guided If she likes cats. how about giving her a pet or something that by her likes and has a picture of a cat on it? dislikes Spend some time You can cook a special dish for the day. You can also throw a with her little party and invite those who are close to her. If she likes outings, A special trip to the countryside could show her how much you take a trip with her. for her. Discussion SAMPLE

A: It's reported in a newspaper article that far more roses are sold on Valentine's Day than flowers on Mother's Day.

B: I never realized it, but when we consider it carefully, there seems to be a problem. A: It's natural for people to pay more attention to the present and future than to the past. So people may think more about their spouses and children than about their parents.

B: But we should never forget that our parents, especially our mothers, took care of us and brought us up.

A: True. Now that Mother's Day is coming, we'd better do something for our morns. I'll give Morn a bouquet of carnations on that morning.

B: I'll look out for anything she plans to buy and buy it as a pleasant surprise for her. A: But it's more important to spend time with her. I'm considering taking Mom to see a new movie. I'm sure she'll enjoy it.

B: But you can't talk a lot with your mom in the movie theater. Why not take her to a restaurant for a good dinner. There you can talk a lot.

A: But I prefer to cook a meal for her by myself. She will be glad about that. B: Perhaps it's also a good idea to take her to a park. That's more romantic.

A: My mom likes to be with people. I'll throw a party for her and invite!Jthose who are close to her.

B: Good idea. You can take photos of her. You see, in a few years she'll get older and won't look the same anymore.

A: I got a part-time job during the winter vacation. I'll give Morn some money. She doesn't really need it, but it shows my love for her and can surely give her a sense of security.

B: I'll cheer my Mom up with my academic achievements. A: Well, don't forget Father's Day. B: Of course not.

VI. Further Listening and Speaking Listening

Task1:Celebrations on the New Year’s Eve Script

On December 31st, Americans welcome the New Year in various ways.

Some people like to see the New Year in while traveling by boat. For example, people in Chicago, Illinois, can choose from several special holiday trips on Lake Michigan. These cruises include dinner and dancing to music performed by a band. In San Diego, California, a company offers New Year's Eve parties on the Pacific Ocean. It costs more than 100 dollars for each person.

Other Americans have parties at home and invite all their friends. Many of these events are noisy. People shout and sing. They often blow on small noisemakers when the New Year arrives at midnight. They kiss their husband or wife or the person they are with. They dance to music. Other Americans spend a quiet evening at home. They drink champagne at midnight to welcome the New Year.

Some people drink too much alcohol at New Year's Eve celebrations. This can lead to tragic results if a person then drives a car. The National Safety Council says hundreds of people die in road accident~ during the holiday.

Other Americans observe the coming of the New Year at events without alcohol more than 220 American cities hold these First Night celebrations. Artists in Boston, Massachusetts, started the tradition of First Night celebrations in 1976. They wanted to observe the coming of a New Year. But they did not want to hold noisy drinking parties. So they organized music, art and other events to observe the holiday. People in Boston can choose among 250 performances and exhibits around the city. People can look at huge statues made of ice. Families can also watch fireworks Early in the

evening. 1. C 2.B 3.D 4.A 5.C

Task 2: Mother’s Day Script

In the U.S., Mother's Day is a holiday celebrated on the second Sunday in May. It is a

day when children honor their mothers with cards, gifts, and flowers. It was first observed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1907.

Long before that, there were days honoring mothers even in ancient Greece. In those days, however, it was Rhea, the mother of the gods who was given honor.

Later, in the 1600s, in England there was an annual observance called \"Mothering Sunday\". It was celebrated during June, on the fourth Sunday. On Mothering Sunday, the servants, who generally lived with their employers, were encouraged to return home and honor their mothers. It was traditional for them to bring a special cake along to celebrate the occasion.

In the U.S., in 1907, Ana Jarvis, from Philadelphia, began a campaign to establish a national Mother's Day. Jarvis

persuaded her mother's church in Grafton, West Virginia, to celebrate Mother's Day on the second anniversary of her mother's death, which was the second Sunday in May. The next year Mother's Day was again celebrated in Philadelphia. Jarvis and others began a letter-writing campaign to ministers, businessmen, and politicians in their quest to establish a national Mother s Day. They were successful. In 1914, the American President president proclaimed Mother s Day a national observance that was to be held each year on the second Sunday of May.

Task3: St.Valentine’s Story Script

Let me introduce myself. My name is Valentine. I lived in Rome during the third century. At that time, Rome was ruled by an emperor named Claudius. He wanted to have a big army, and he expected men to volunteer to join. Seeing many men did not want to leave their wives and families, Claudius had a crazy idea. He thought that if men were not married, they would not mind joining the army. So he passed a law to forbid any more marriages. I thought it was preposterous! I certainly wasn't going to support that law!

I was a priest, and one of my favorite activities was to marry couples. I kept on performing marriage ceremonies, secretly. One night, we heard footsteps and shouts of soldiers outside. It was scary! The couple I was marrying escaped in time, but I was caught. I was thrown in jail and told that my punishment was death.

Then wonderful things happened. Many young people came to the jail to visit me. They threw flowers and notes up to my window. They wanted me to know that they, too, believed in love.

One of these young people was the daughter of the prison guard. Sometimes we would sit and talk for hours. She helped me to keep my spirits up. On the day I was to die, I left my friend a little note thanking her for her friendship and loyalty. I signed it, \"Love from your Valentine.\"

I believe that note started the custom of exchanging love messages on Valentine's Day.

News Report

A Famous Christmas Market

Script

Receiving Christmas presents is always fun, but buying them can be a headache. This is why many Christmas shoppers around Europe are now going to the German city of

Nuremberg to visit its famous Christmas market, Christkindlesmarkt.. The four-hundred-year-old market is a child's paradise. Its 150 stalls sell all kinds of toys, gifts, and special foods. A staggering two million people visit the market annually.

The old city and market add a special feeling to Christmas. As one British tourist, Mivart Thomas, explains,\" There's something quite, sort of, medieval about the atmosphere here. There are quite a lot of old stalls--traditional-looking stalls--and the cathedral in the background with lights all around; and just a few minutes ago, the brass band was playing...playing Christmas carols. The whole atmosphere is wonderful.\" The market maintains its Old World atmosphere with regulations saying what can and can't be sold. Not surprisingly, the focus is on the family. The market's tourist officer, Gerd Lauterbauch, points out that the market's name translates as \"Christ child's market\and the idea behind it is to offer presents for children on Christmas. Christmas markets are found in many German cities, but Nuremberg's is the most famous. It gives a very different impression from the one tourists expect, considering the city's Nazi past. And as word of the market spreads around Europe, the market is becoming a tourist center.

Unit10

Basic Listening Practice 1. Script

W: Let me recommend my brother to you. He’s really done well in the stock market over the last few years.

M: The real question is this: How have you dine by taking his advice? Q: What does the man mean?

2. Script

M: Many investors jump on IPOs, hoping to get rich by getting into a stock early before it goes up. W: But isn’t that a bit like buying a book without reading it? I mean, what if it doesn’t go up? Q: What is the woman’s opinion?

3. Script

W: The Dow was down again today. It’s hard to make money when high fuel prices are killing the stock market.

M: There’s still money to be made. If you bought oil futures three months ago, you’d be smiling right now.

Q: What can we learn from the dialog?

4. Script

M: I can’t wait to get back to my computer. Online share trading has totally changed the stock market and the lives of investors. Hook up to the Internet and be your own broker!

W: In other words you can cut out the middle man now. For about ＄500, you can open an account and begin buying and selling shares from your own home, 24 hours a day. Q: Which of the following is true if they want to trade shares on the Internet?

5. Script

M: Hold onto your hat! We’ll be rich. I’m buying shares in a new company.

M: You can’t buy IPO shares unless you have a big active with a broker. The day of dot-com fortunes from IPOs are over.

Q: According to the conversation, what is the condition for buying IPO shares.

1.D 2.C 3.A 4.B 5.C

Listening In

Task 1: Tell me about the stock exchange. Script

George: I’m supposed to give a presentation on the stock exchange, but I don’t yet know a thing

about it. Could you give me some tips?

Diana: The problem with you is that you’ve skipped too many classes. Now, let me give you a few tips. First of all, you need to define the stock exchange. It’s an organization of brokers and investment bankers. In Europe it is often called a bourse.

George: Could you tell me more about it? Like, how does it work?

Diana: It provides facilities for the trading of company stocks, mainly the location and the

record-keeping devices.

George: Can I go and trade there?

Diana: It depends. You have to be a member of the exchange before you can buy and sell shares

there. They call it having “a seat” on the exchange.

George: Something they use the term “stock market”.

Diana: Well, the trading of stock on stock exchanges is called the stock market. George: How can a company be listed on the stock exchange?

Diana: It has to meet certain requirements. To be listed on the New York Stock Exchange last year,

for example, a company had to have issued at least a million shares of stock worth＄16 and had to have had more than ＄2.5 million net income.

George: Wow, that’s a huge sum! Small companies haven’t got a chance. Diana: Big companies have more influence on the stock prices after all. George: I see what you mean.

Stock exchange a thing some tips define investment bankers Europe a member stock market requirements a million shares net income

Task 2: Stockbroker helps Mr. Junkie to short

Script

ABC stock reached＄155. “＄155” for a stock that should be valued at＄100. Wow! “That’s it,” I said to myself. “It’s time I make a decision. I’m going to short that stock.” I thought to myself, “This stock is overvalued. It can’t remain at the present level for long. This means money in the bank.”

So I phoned my broker.

“I want to place a trade. I want to short 1,500 shares of ABC.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Junkie,” he said, “I can’t process that for you. Your account is cash account. You need a margin account to short a stock. I can send you the application form or you nearest financial institution to fill out the forms.”

The minute I got of the phone, I heard out the door because time is money. I ran to the financial institution to fill out the form and sent it to the broker by express mail service. Next morning I called him.

“Hello, it’s Mr. Junkie. Did you get my application? “Yes.”

“Great, I would like to short ABC then.”

“One minute please…I’m sorry, Mr. Junkie, but you now need a shorter’s account.” “What! You mean the margin account isn’t enough?”

“No, you also need a shorter’s account. Any financial institution nearby has the forms.”

Off I ran again. I completed the form and had a taxi deliver to my broker. In the afternoon I called again.

“Hello, it’s Mr. Junkie. I want to short 1,500 shares of ABC at ＄155.”

A few moments later he answered, “Mr. Junkie, I am sorry, but I don’t think that is possible.” “Why not?”

“Well, the last trade went through at ＄99.”

F 1. The broker did not believe ABC stock could remain at ＄155 for long. T 2. Mr. Junkie wanted to short 1,500 shares of ABC.

T 3.Mr. Junkie could get a margin account through either a financial institution or his broker. T 4. To short a stock, one needs both a margin account and a shorter’s account. F 5. Mr. Junkie asked a taxi driver the forms for a margin account to the broker.

Task 3: Who am I if I own stocks? Script

When a person buys stocks in a company, that person becomes a shareholder in that company. Stockholder is another name for shareholder. A shareholder can also be called an investor of the company. When that company makes money, which can also be called earned income or profit, the value of the company’s stock often increases. That’s because more people may become interested in investing in the company. Sometimes, shareholders receive a dividend, which is part of the company’s earned incomes, in the form of a cash payment.

Some people try to make money by buying and selling stocks. Stock prices can move up and down. Shareholders may make money or lose money by selling stocks that they own, depending on whether the price has gone up or down since they bought their shares. A company’s stock price may be affected by market or economic conditions. For example, let’s say that BCD Enterprises is

a software company that has introduced a new video game into the market. If that game is a hit, sales of the video game could boost the company’s earnings. Because of the potential for BCD Enterprises to grow, its stock may be viewed as an attractive investment and its stock price may go up as more people buy its shares. On the other hand, let’s say the video game that BCD Enterprises introduced is a flop. Or, it could be a good time, but BCD introduced it at a time when people are spending less on leisure products, and hardly anyone is buying the game. So it’s reported that BCD is losing money because of this new product. Then the stock price for BCD Enterprises may go down if a number of shareholders decide to sell their shares.

1. What is the passage mainly concerned with?

C) The influence of shareholders’ buying and selling on a company.

2. Which of the following is NOT the same as a shareholder? B) A person selling shares on behalf of others.

3. What may affect a company’s stock price? D) All of the above.

4. According to the passage, which of the following is true if a company’s product is good? A) The company’s stock price may go up.

5. Why does the speaker mention BCD Enterprises?

D) BCD is used as an example to illustrate the stock market principles

Speaking Out

MODEL 1 The stock market is driven by fear and greed.

Chris: Nora!

Nora: Hey Chris. Why the big grin? You look like the cat that swallowed the canary.

Chris: Even better. An uncle I hardly knew passes away and left an inheritance of ＄100,000. So

now I’m thinking of making some investments.

Nora: Good idea, thouh it would be more fun if we spent it together. What sort of investment do you have in mind?

Chris: The stock market is looking attractive. It’s been a bear market for several years now, and I

think stock prices are pretty depressed.

Nora: The decling market has investors depressed,too.

Chris: But all things work in cycles. A bear market will eventually be followed by a bull market. Nora: That’s sure. I’ve been reading that investors are coming back to the market, and that will drive up the value of stocks.

Chris: I believe the market is picking up.

Nora: But there’s still a risk. Wars, weather problems—all these impact incestors’ confidence. Chris: I know what you mean. The stock market is driven by fear snd greed. When investors are cinfident od making of a fortune, they buy—that’s greed at work. Nora: But along comes something to shake their confidence…

Chris: Like a rise in interest rates, for example, and bingo, they become afraid that they might lose their shares, so they pull out of the market.

Now Your Turn

A: I’ve saved a lot of money over the past years, and now I’d like to invest it for a profit. B: What sort of investment do you have in mind?

A: The stock market is looking attractive. It’s been a bear market for several years now, and I think stock prices are pretty depressed.

B: The falling market has discouraged many investors.

A: But all things work in cycles. A bear market will eventually be followed by a bull market. B: That’s true. When the market does touch its bottom, it’ll rebound.

A: I hope the investors will soon come back to the market and drive it up.

B: But there’re still risks. Wars, weather problems—all these affect buyers’ confidence. We’re not sure if the market has reached its bottom.

A: The bear market has lasted over four years; I think it’s time for it to pick up.

B: It’s really hard to say. The Japanese stock market has had a bear run of about ten years. A: Really?

B: And when NASDAQ fell from 5,000 points to 3,000 points, some people believe it was a golden opportunity to enter the market. Then the market plunged. A: So the stock market is really risky. I may lose money. B: And maybe even your shirts.

A: Well, perhaps I’d better put my money on the bank.

The stock has to be launched.

Helen: You know, this has been a privately owned company since we first opened last year and, to

be honest with you, I’m inclined in keeping in that way.

Bill: But the market is changing rapidly, and we need to think long term and take proactive measure; otherwise, we’ll find ourselves behind the competition.

Helen: That’s a good point; perhaps I should be more open—minded about this. Bill: Don’t you think you’re a little short of funds at the moment? Helen: That’s true.

Bill: You simply can’t afford to upgrade your facilities without considerable outside investment.

The bank won't lend you the money. Helen: I haven’t tried it.

Bill: Even if it did, the interest rate for that much capital would be more we could afford. I’m

convinced, the only way to generate the funds we need is to go public. Helen: What should I do then?

Bill: A consultant will be coming in next week to explain the registration procedure for an IPO.

Helen: That’s great because I want to have a thorough understanding of what this entails before any decisions are made. Bill: The important point is that you have to demonstrate you’re financially qualified to be listed on the stock market.

Now Your Turn

A: Mr. Smith, though your company has grown fast few years, the market is changing the rapidly. So you need to think the long term and take proactive measures; otherwise, you’ll find it behind the competition.

B: You’re quite right, but can you be more specific about what we must do?

A: Don’t you think your company is a bit short of funds to expand production at the moment. B: That’s right.

A: You simply can’t afford to upgrade your facilities without large external investments. B: Perhaps I have to borrow money from the bank. A: It won’t lend you so much money. B: I haven’t tried it.

A: Even if you got a loan, the interest rate for large sum would be more than you can afford. I’m convinced, the only way to gather funds you need is to go to public. B: What should I do then?

A: Let me explain the requirements for an IPO.

B: I’m all ears. I want to have a thorough understanding of what this entails before I make further decisions.

A: The important point is that you have to demonstrate that you are financially qualified to be launched on the stock market. You must show you have a capital of 50 million yuan. B: Our company does have that amount of money. Are there other requirements?

A: You have to prove that the company has been making a profit in the past three years. It’s also essential that there are no false financial reports.

B: Ok, no problem. I’ll try to go through the Registration procedure to get our company listed.

MODEL 3 Nothing is certain n the stock market

Susan: Hey, Chris, have you read the paper today? Chris: No. why? What’s up?

Susan: The store market has dropped again.

Chris: Oh, no! Not again! How many points did it lose this time? Susan: One hundred.

Chris: Let’s see…that’s a drop of three percent. Well, there goes the money I was going to use to buy a new car.

Susan: Before you get upset, I think you should look at the stock listings for today. Chris: What for?

Susan: Well, some stocks actually gained, especially telecom stocks.

Chris: Let me see that paper. You’re right! My stock went up five percent overnight! That’s great! Susan: For now, anyway. It may plunge tomorrow.

Chris: you’re right. I’m going to call my broker cash in my stocks. I’m not taking any more changes with my savings.

Susan: You’re wisher than most people I know. Sometimes it’s better to play it safe.

Now Your Turn

A: Hey, Jack, I hear you become a millionaire by investing in the stock market. But I always lose money in the market. Can you give me a few tips?

B: First of all, let’s look at the stock listing in today’s newspaper. A: Wow, the stock market dropped again. B: What stock did you buy? A: BCD.

B: How many points did it lose this time? A: More than a hundred.

B: Let’s see…That’s a drop of nearly five percent.

A: Oh, there goes a lot of my money. I’m thinking about pulling out of the market. B: Before you get upset, I’d like to give you some advice. A: What’s that?

B: Well, the market is cyclical. Through you’re losing money now, your stock may gain in future. Personally, I believe your stock is a good one. You’d better keep it until it goes up one day. A: So I can’t make money in a short time?

B: Let’s look at XYZ stock. It’s now a junk stock, but it’s been low for a long time. It may climb up at any moment.

A: So, I’ll buy it and wait for it to go up.

B: And cash in your stock when it reaches a point that is high enough to give you a profit. My basic principle is to buy at the bottom and sell at the peak.

A: I see. I’ll buy low and sell high. But what if XYZ plunges again after I buy it? B: You have to take changes. There’s always risk in the stock market.

Let’s Talk

Gregory: I’ve been thinking about getting into the stock market, but I don’t know where to start.

What do you know about buying stocks?

Sylvia: Well, I have a few investments, so I know a little about it. Now it is probably a good

time to invest. The market is low; prices are probably pretty good.

Gregory: So you mean it’s high time to enter the market? What kind of stock do you suggest?

Sylvia: I won’t recommend any specific stock. You have to make the decision on your own. If

you want to make money quickly, you could try speculating.

Gregory: What do you mean by speculating?

Sylvia: You buy stocks that go up quickly for a fast profit.

Gregory: Isn’t that risky? Stocks that go up fast also tend to go down fast.

Sylvia: You just have to guess how high they’ll go, and then sell when you think they are about

to come down. If you guess right, you can make lots of money in the blink of an eye.

Gregory: But I hear that many people guess wrong. When they think the market is already very

low, they start to buy. Then the market continues to drop.

Sylvia: In that case you will lose your shirt. But to make money, you have to take changes. Gregory: Hmm, I’m not much of a gambler.

Sylvia: So you probably want to stick to blue chip stocks for a guarantee return on your

investment.

Gregory: That sounds right up my alley.

Gregory is thinking about getting into the stock market and wants to know how to buy stocks. Sylvia say the market is low, so prices are probably pretty good. Gregory sees it is high time to enter the market.

Sylvia Suggest speculating, which means buying stocks that go up quickly and then selling quickly for a fast profit.

Gregory finds it risky because stocks that go up fast also tend to go down fast.

Sylvia says that he has to guess how high they will go and then sells when he thinks they’re

about to come down.

Gregory hears that many people guess wrong. When they start to buy, the market continues to drop.

Sylvia says that, to make money, he has to take changes.Gregory admits that he is not much of a gambler.Sylvia suggests that he stick to the blue chip stocks for a guaranteed return on his

investment.

Discussion

A: I’m renting an apartment. If you go on like this, I’ll never have an apartment of my own. So I’m thinking buying an apartment, but I don’t know whether it’s good time to invest in property.

B: Soon it’ll be high time to buy houses. There’s been good news for buyers lately. A: What’s it?

B: in the light of the speculative investment in real estate, the government has recently issued a number of rules. For example, those who sell newly—bought apartment have to pay a tax. So probably fewer people are willing to speculate in the real estate market, and the housing prices will drop.

A: I have to wait and see. I would be glad even if the prices just remain stable. Any other good news?

B: Some people propose bypassing the real estate developers. They want to pool their funds to build their own apartment buildings. In this way they can cut the costs by a big margin.

A: Sounds interesting, though I’m not sure if it’s practical. About when do you think I should buy an apartment?

B: Pretty soon. I guess the prices will fall soon.

A: I want to know exactly when. Shall I buy it next week or next month?

B: You just have to guess how low the prices will go, and then buy at the right time.

A: It’s a bit risky because I may guess wrong. After I buy an apartment, the price may plunge again.

B: You have to take changes and make the decision on your own.

A: Hmm, I’m not much of a gambler. Perhaps I’ll wait and see and continue to live in the rented apartment.

B: There’s also risk in this. It’s not altogether impossible that housing prices will move up a little bit. If that’s the case, you’ll have to pay even more in the future.

A: My God, there are risks everywhere! So you’ve told me next to nothing.

Further Listening and Speaking

Task1: what do you know about NASDAQ?

As the world’s largest electronic, NASDAQ is not limited to one trading location. Rather, trading is executed through NASDAQ’s complex computer and telecommunication network, which sends real—time quote and trade data to more than 1.3 million users in 83 countries. Without size and location limitations, NASDAQ’s open market structure allows a virtually unlimited number of participants to trade in a company’s stock.

Today, NASDAQ lists the securities of nearly 4,100 of the world’s leading companies, and each year it continues to help hundreds of companies go public.

Trading on NASDAQ is not limited to any fixed number of participants. This allows a large number of firms with widely different business models and trading technologies to connect to the NASDAQ network and compete on an equal basis. Rather than forcing investors to go through a single financial firms called makers. More than 500 market making firms trade on NASDAQ, acting ad distributors for NASDAQ-listed securities. Those market makers are unique in that they invest own capital in NASDAQ-listed securities, and then turn around and distribute the stock as needed. They are required at all times to post their bid and ask prices in the NASDAQ network where they can be viewed by all participants. By being willing to buy or sell stock using their own funds, the market makers strengthen NASDAQ’s market, ensuing that there are always buyers and sellers for NASDAQ-listed securities and enabling trades to be filled quickly and efficiently.

1. How many participants does NASDAQ allow to trade in one company’s stock? D) An unlimited number.

2. What does NASDAQ’s computer and telecommunications network do? C) It immediately sends quote and trade information to over 1.3 million users.

3. According to the passage, which of the following is true of NASDAQ? A) It has launched more than 4,000 companies.

4. What role do the market makers play?

B) They buy and sell NASDAQ stocks to help strengthen the market.

5. Which of the following is the best title for the passage? A) The operation of NASDAQ.

Task 2: Stockbroker as Liquidator

In the midst of the shaky market of last week, many brokers got calls from their clients requesting they sell their shares. One broker told such a story:

One of my clients called me on Thursday. He was anxious and out of breath, and spoke with great urgency.

He said to me, “Jone, sell it all. Sell everything, fast, right away.”

I tried to explain to him that the market was cyclical, and that in the long term stocks would return to normal.

He said, “John, let me tell you a secret. You know I’ve been married for sixty years now, and I’ve been your client for five.”

“Yes, go on.” I said encouragingly.

“Well, my wife Lucie has a sort of phobia about the market. When we got married, I promised her that I would follow in her parents’ footsteps and never venture into the stock market and always leave all our money under the mattress. Her great grandparents once lost everything in a great crash, and ever since then her family found investing in the market similar to crime.”

“Wow, Howard, I didn’t know that. I guess you want the money because the market is going down.”

“No, John, I want the money because she ordered a new mattress, and it is being delivered in two days.”

Task 3: A Stock Market Crash

A stock market crash is a dramatic loss of shares of corporations. Crashes often follow speculative stock market bubbles such as the dot-com boom.

After the most famous crash in 1929, known as the Black Thursday when the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 50%, there came the Great Depression. The following years saw the Dow drop a total of over 85%.

There was also a crash on Monday, October 19, 1987, known in financial circles as the Black Monday, when the Dow lost 22%of its value in a single day, bringing to an end a five-year bull run. The pattern was repeated across the world.

The stock market downturn of 2002 was part of a larger bear market that took the NASDAQ 75%from its highs and broader indices down 30%.

Stock market crashes are driven by panic as much as by economics factors. They often follow stock market bubbles. So long as the prospect of further daily drops in the value stocks continues, those who invest in equities will be discouraged. If few people are willing to make further investments, a bear market is expected to persist.

News Report

Worsening Bank Assets

Many of the traditional quantitative indicators suggest that bank asset quality is deteriorating, and that supervisors therefore need to be more sentitive to problems at individual banks, both currently and in the months ahead.

Some of the credits that were made in earlier periods of optimism—especially syndicated loans—are now under pressure and scrutiny. The softening economy and all special circumstances have especially affected borrowers in the retail, manufacturing, health care and telecommunication industries. California utilities, as you know, have also been under particular pressure. All of these, and no doubt other problem areas that are not now of foreseeable, require that both bank management and supervisors remain particularly alert to development.

We are fortunate enough that our banking system entered this period of weak economic performance in a strong position. After rebuilding capital and liquidity in the early 1990s, followed by several years of post-World War II record profits and very strong loan growth, our banks now have prudent capital and reserve positions.

In addition, asset quality was quite good by historical standards before the deterioration began.

Building on banking practices, we are in the process of improving both lending and supervisory policies that we trust will foster better risk management; but these policies could also reduce the pro-cyclical pattern of easing and tightening of bank lending and accordingly increase bank shareholder values and economic stability. It is an easy road, Mr. Chairman, but it seems that we are well along it.