A Modern-Looking Goddess

Level: B2

Some time ago, an interesting discovery was made by archaeologists on the Aegean island of Kea. An American team explored a temple which stands in an ancient city on the promontory of Ayia Irini. The city at one time must have been prosperous, for it enjoyed a high level of civilization. Houses – often three storeys high – were built of stone. They had large rooms with beautifully decorated walls. The city was equipped with a drainage system, for a great many clay pipes were found beneath the narrow streets.

The temple which the archaeologists explored was used as a place of worship from the fifteenth century BCE until Roman times. In the most sacred room of temple, clay fragments of fifteen statues were found. Each of these represented a goddess and had, at one time, been painted. The body of one statue was found among remains dating from the fifteenth century BCE. It’s missing head happened to be among remains of the fifth century BCE. This head must have been found in Classical times and carefully preserved. It was very old and precious even then. When the archaeologists reconstructed the fragments, they were amazed to find that the goddess turned out to be a very modern-looking woman. She stood three feet high and her hands rested on her hips. She was wearing a full-length skirt which swept the ground. Despite her great age, she was very graceful indeed, but, so far, the archaeologists have been unable to discover her identity.

Glossary

amazed- very surprised; astonished

BCE- before current era; the years before the birth of Jesus

despite- used to say that something happens or is true even though something else might have prevented it

discovery-  a fact or thing that someone finds out about, when it was not known about before

drainage- the process or system by which water or waste liquid flows away

equipped with- provided with the things that are needed for a particular kind of activity or work

explore- to travel around an area in order to find out about it

fragment- a small piece of something that has broken off or that comes from something larger

graceful- moving in a smooth and attractive way, or having an attractive shape or form

identity- someone’s name and who they are

indeed- used to emphasize a statement or answer

precious- valuable and important

preserve- to save someone or something from being harmed or destroyed

promontory- a long narrow piece of land which sticks out into the sea

prosperous- rich and successful

reconstruct- to build something again after it has been destroyed or damaged

remains- the parts of something that are left after the rest has been destroyed or has disappeared

represent- to be a sign or mark that means something; to form or be something

rest- to support an object or part of body by putting it on or against something, or to be supported in this way

sacred- relating to a god or religion; very important or greatly respected

sweep- to move things from a surface with a brushing movement

temple- a building where people go to worship

turn out- to happen in a particular way, or to have a particular result, especially one that you did not expect

worship- the activity of praying or singing in a religious building in order to show respect and love for a god

Collocations

make a discovery

explore a temple

on the promontory of

enjoy a high level of civilization

three storeys high

built of stone

beautifully decorated

drainage system

equipped with a system

a great many

a place of worship

happen to be

carefully preserved

reconstruct fragments

be amazed to find

turn out to be

modern-looking

stand three feet high

your hands rest on your hips

a full-length skirt

her skirt sweeps the ground

despite her great age

discover her identity

Camping Disaster

Level: B2

When we had packed all the provisions that we would need for our big camping trip, we got in the car and started off. After driving all day, we found the spot we wanted, a wide strip of wooded land that projected into a lake. Since I had just become a tenderfoot scout, I asked my father if I could erect my own tent. At the conclusion of an hour’s work, I finally had it up. As anyone could see, it wasn’t very stable, and I hoped we wouldn’t have a big wind. My younger brother referred to my efforts as a mess. I was unhappy with the tent myself, but I just didn’t have the patience to start all over. I should have asked for my brother’s help, but I was afraid of losing my dignity. As you might guess, a severe storm came up right after we went to bed. But my parents had mercy and didn’t even smile as I crawled into their tent with them.

Glossary

conclusion n. end or the way something ends: I found the conclusion of the film rather irritating.

dignity n. the quality or state of deserving respect, esp. because of being controlled, serious and calm: He is a man of dignity and calm determination. 

erect v. o put up or raise to a vertical position (a tent, flag or other esp. temporary structure): They erected a marquee to accommodate 500 wedding guests.

mercy n. kindness and forgiveness shown towards someone whom you have the power to treat severely or punish: People who are caught drinking and driving can expect little mercy from the courts.

patience n. the ability to wait, or continue doing something despite difficulties, or suffer without complaining or becoming annoyed: You have to have such a lot of patience when you're dealing with kids.

project v. to stick out over an edge: One of the features of the hotel is that its dining room projects (out) over the sea.

provisions n. supplies of food and other necessary things: All provisions for the camp have to be flown in by helicopter.

refer v. to mention, describe or involve (someone or something): He always refers to his wife as ‘the old woman.’

severe adj. causing very great pain, difficulty, anxiety, damage, etc.; very serious: He's suffering from a severe chest infection.

stable adj. firmly fixed or not likely to move or change: Heavier boats are more stable than lighter boats.

Synonyms

conclusion- the conclusion of the meeting: end; finish; close; halting; cessation; termination; discontinuance; (inf.) wind-up.

dignity- pride; self-esteem; self-conceit; self-regard; self-importance; self-respect; amour propre.

erect- put up; set up; set upright; assemble.

mercy- leniency; clemency; compassion; compassionateness; pity; charity; forgiveness; forbearance; quarter; humanity; humaneness; mildness; soft-heartedness; tender-heartedness; kindness; sympathy; liberality; tolerance; generosity; beneficence; benignancy.

patience- calmness; composure; even temper; even-temperedness; equanimity; equilibrium; serenity; tranquility; restraint; self-restraint; imperturbability; inexcitability; tolerance; long-suffering; indulgence; forbearance; endurance; resignation; stoicism; fortitude; (inf.) unflappability; cool.

project- jut; jut out; protrude; extend; stick out; stand out; hang over; bulge out; beetle; obtrude.

provisions- supplies, catering, accoutrement, stock, preparation, store, procurement, equipment.

refer- mention; make mention of; make reference to; allude to; touch on; speak of; cite; advert to; hint at.

severe- fierce; strong; violent; intense; powerful; forceful; very bad.

stable- firm; solid; steady; secure; fixed; strong; fast; stout; sturdy; moored; anchored; immovable.

Collocations

pack provisions

start off

project into a place

a tenderfoot scout

erect a tent

at the conclusion of an event

have a tent up

refer to something as something

be unhappy with something

have patience to do something

start all over

lose your dignity

a storm comes up

have mercy

crawl into a place

The Village Clock Tower

Level: B2

Our vicar is always raising money for one cause or another, but he has never managed to get enough money to have the church clock repaired. The big clock which used to strike the hours day and night was damaged many years ago and has been silent ever since.

One night, however, our vicar work up with a start: the clock was striking the hours! Looking at his watch, he saw that it was one o’clock, but the bell struck thirteen times before it stopped. Armed with a torch, the vicar went up into the clock tower to see what was going on. In the torchlight, he caught sight of a figure whom he immediately recognized as Bill Wilkins, our local grocer.

‘Whatever are you doing up here Bill?’ asked the vicar in surprise.

‘I’m trying to repair the bell,’ answered Bill. ‘I’ve been coming up here night after night for weeks now. You see, I was hoping to give you a surprise.’

‘You certainly did give me a surprise!’ said the vicar. ‘You’ve probably woken up everyone in the village as well. Still, I’m glad the bell is working again.’

That’s the trouble, vicar,’ answered Bill. ‘It’s working all right, but I’m afraid that at one o’clock it will strike thirteen times and there’s nothing I can do about it.’

We’ll get used to that, Bill,’ said the vicar. ‘Thirteen is not as good as one, but it’s better than nothing. Now let’s go downstairs and have a cup of tea.’

Glossary

arm- to provide all the information, skills, or equipment you need to do something

catch sight of- to see someone or something

cause- an aim, belief, or organization that a group of people support or fight for

come up- to come to a particular place

damage- to cause physical harm to something or to part of someone’s body

get used to- to become familiar with something so that it no longer seems surprising, difficult, etc.

go on- to happen

grocer- someone who owns or works in a shop that sells food and other things used in the home

immediately- without delay; at once

local- relating to the particular area you live in, or in the area you are talking about

manage- to succeed in doing something, especially after trying hard

raise- to collect money that you can use to do a particular job or help people

recognize- to know who someone is or something is because you have seen, heard, experienced, or learned about them in the past

repair- to fix

start- a sudden movement of your body, usually caused by fear or surprise

strike- if a clock strikes the hours, its bell makes a sound according to what time it is

torch- a small electric lamp that you carry in your hand

vicar- a priest in the Church of England who is in charge of a church in a particular area

Collocations

raise money for a cause

manage to do something

have something repaired

a clock strides the hours

with a start

wake up with a start

a bell strikes

armed with something

in the torchlight

catch sight of someone or something

in surprise

give someone a surprise

get used to something or doing something

Oscar

Level: B2

My dog, Oscar, showed his affection for me in many ways. He was always happy and playful, and I’m sure he had a better sense of humour than most people. He got into a lot of trouble because in his haste to welcome me home, he sometimes knocked things over. Oscar always knew when I was at the door, and I could hear the rapid tat-tat-tat of his claws as he raced down the hall. I was always teasing him, and so it’s a mystery why he liked me so much. When Oscar died, I knew the real meaning of grief. No matter how hard I tried to get interested in other things, nothing could relieve the hurt. My father had sympathy for me. He said that when he was a boy, his dog had run away. He advised me to get a new puppy. My new puppy is not yet as smart as Oscar was, but he is faithful to me, and I really like him.

Glossary

advise v. to give an opinion about what someone should do or how they should act in a particular situation: I advised him to stay at home.

affection n. a feeling of liking: She felt little affection for the child.

faithful adj. loyal: She was a close and faithful friend.

grief n. very great sadness, esp. at the death of someone: Newspapers should not intrude on people's private grief.

haste n. (too much) speed: Unfortunately the report was prepared in haste and contained several inaccuracies.

humour n. the ability to be amused by things, the way in which people see that some things are amusing, or the quality of being amusing: He has a wonderful sense of humour.

mystery n. something strange or unknown which has not yet been explained or understood: The mystery was solved when the police discovered the murder weapon.

rapid adj. quick or sudden: I was startled by a rapid movement to my left.

relieve v. If something relieves an unpleasant feeling, such as pain or worry, it makes it less strong: She was given a shot of morphine to relieve the pain.

sympathy n. understanding and care for someone else's suffering: I don't really have much sympathy for people who've brought their troubles on themselves.

Synonyms

advise- give guidance; guide; counsel; give counsel; give recommendations; offer suggestions/opinions; give hints/tips; instruct.

affection- love; liking; fondness; warmth; devotion; caring; attachment; friendship; amity; warm feelings.

faithful- loyal; constant; devoted; dependable; reliable; true; true-blue; trusty; trustworthy; staunch; unswerving; unwavering; steadfast; obedient; dutiful; dedicated; committed.

grief- sorrow; mourning; mournfulness; bereavement; lamentation; misery; sadness; anguish; pain; distress; agony; affliction; suffering; heartache; heartbreak; broken-heartedness; heaviness of heart; trouble; woe; tribulation; trial; desolation; despondency; dejection; despair; remorse; regret.

haste- 1) fulfil the order with haste: speed; swiftness; rapidity; rapidness; quickness; fastness; alacrity; promptness; promptitude; dispatch; expeditiousness; expedition; celerity; fleetness; briskness; immediateness; urgency. 2) haste causes carelessness: hastiness; hurriedness; hurry; rushing; hustling; impetuosity; recklessness; rashness; foolhardiness; precipitateness; impulsiveness; heedlessness; carelessness. 

humour- 1) not to see the humor of the situation: funny side; funniness; comic side; comical aspect; comedy; laughableness; facetiousness; farcicalness; farce; jocularity; hilarity; ludicrousness; absurdness; absurdity; drollness. 2) entertain them with his humor: comedy; jokes; joking; jests; jesting; gags; wit; wittiness; witticisms; waggishness; pleasantries; buffoonery; (inf.) wisecracks.

mystery- 1) his death remains a mystery: enigma; puzzle; secret; unsolved problem; problem; riddle; conundrum; question; question mark; closed book; unexplored ground; terra incognita. 2) his whereabouts are clothed in mystery: secrecy; concealment; obscurity; obscuration; vagueness; nebulousness; inscrutability; inexplicability.

rapid- quick; fast; swift; speedy; fleet; hurried; hasty; expeditious; express; brisk; lively; prompt; precipitate. 

relieve- alleviate; mitigate; assuage; allay; soothe; soften; palliate; appease; ease; dull; abate; reduce; lessen; diminish. 

sympathy- compassion; commiseration; pity; condolence; consolation; comfort; solace; support; caring; concern; solicitude; solicitousness; consideration; kindness; kind-heartedness; warmth; warm-heartedness; charity; charitableness; understanding; empathy.

Collocations

show affection for someone

have a sense of humour

get into trouble

do something in haste

in your haste to do something

knock something over

know the real meaning of grief

it’s a mystery why

relieve the hurt

have sympathy for someone or something

advise someone to do something

faithful to someone or something

Cat Escape

Level: B2

Pumas are large, cat-like animals which are found in America. When reports came into London Zoo that a wild puma had been spotted forty-five miles south of London, they were not taken seriously. However, as the evidence began to accumulate, experts from the Zoo felt obliged to investigate, for the descriptions given by people who claimed to have seen the puma were extraordinarily similar.

The hunt for the puma began in a small village where a woman picking blackberries saw ‘a large cat’ only five yards away from her. It immediately ran away when she saw it, and experts confirmed that a puma will not attack a human being unless it is cornered. The search proved difficult, for the puma was often observed at one place in the morning and at another place twenty miles away in the evening. Wherever it went, it left behind it a trail of dead deer and small animals like rabbits. Paw prints were seen in a number of places and puma fur was found clinging to bushes. Several people complained of ‘cat-like noises’ at night and a businessman on a fishing trip saw the puma up a tree.

The experts were now fully convinced that the animal was a puma, but where had it come from? As no pumas had been reported missing from any zoo in the country, this one must have been in the possession of a private collector and somehow managed to escape. The hunt went on for several weeks, but the puma was not caught. It is disturbing to think that a dangerous wild animal is still at large in the quiet countryside.

Glossary

accumulate- to gradually increase in number or amount until there is a large quantity in a place

at large- if a dangerous person or animal is at large, they have escaped from somewhere or have not been caught

cling to- to stick to someone or something, or seem to surround them

complain- to say that you are annoyed, not satisfied or unhappy about something or someone

confirm- to show that something is definitely true, especially by providing more proof

convinced- feeling certain that something is true

corner- to force an animal or person into a position from which they cannot easily escape

disturbing- worrying or upsetting

extraordinarily- extremely; in a way that seems strange

feel obliged- to feel you have to do something because the situation, the law, a duty, etc. makes it necessary

for- because

fully- completely

investigate- to try to find out the truth about something such as a crime, accident, or scientific problem

manage- to succeed in doing something difficult, especially trying very hard

spot- to notice someone or something, especially when they are difficult to see or recognize

trail- a sign that a person or animal has been in a place, used for finding and catching them

Collocations

reports come in

take someone or something seriously

evidence accumulates

feel obliged to do something

give descriptions of something

extraordinarily similar

a hunt for someone or something

prove difficult

leave behind a trail of something

be found doing something

complain of something

fully convinced

be in the possession of someone

My Magic Show

Level: B2

Of all the acts at the circus, I liked the magician’s best. His act was magnificent. He could make things change colour, change shape – or even make them vanish completely. It was absolutely impossible to believe that he could make one egg after another disappear up his sleeve. I estimated that at least 10 eggs disappeared up one sleeve. As soon as I got home, I began to plot a magic show of my own. First, I would make eggs disappear. I was in such a hurry, however, that I neglected to hard boil them. What a peculiar feeling when the eggs broke inside my sleeve! I just stood there as they dripped down my arm and left an enormous mess on the floor. My mother made a bargain with me; she would clean up the mess if I’d forget about being a magician. So I was obliged to give up my magic show before it started.

Glossary

absolutely adv. completely: You must be absolutely silent or the birds won't appear.

bargain n. an agreement between two people or groups in which each promises to do something in exchange for something else: The management and employees eventually struck/made a bargain (= reached an agreement).

enormous adj. extremely large: I had an enormous lunch.

estimate v. to form a numerical estimate of; judge by estimation: Government sources estimate a long-term 50% increase in rail fares.

magnificent adj. very good, beautiful or to be admired: They live in a magnificent Tudor house in the country.

neglect v. to give not enough care or attention to (people or things that are your responsibility): He neglects that poor dog - he never takes him for walks or gives him any attention.

oblige v. to force (someone) to do something, or to make it necessary for (someone) to do something; to compel: The law obliges companies to pay decent wages to their employees.

peculiar adj. unusual and strange, sometimes in an unpleasant way: She has the most peculiar ideas. What a peculiar smell!

plot v. make a secret plan to do something that is wrong, harmful or not legal: I can't believe that he's plotting against his own father.

vanish v. to disappear or stop being present or existing, esp. in a sudden, surprising way: The child vanished while on her way home after a game of tennis.

Synonyms

absolutely- completely, totally, utterly, perfectly, entirely, wholly, fully, quite, thoroughly, unreservedly, definitely, certainly, unconditionally, categorically, unquestionably, no doubt, without a doubt.

bargain- 1) make a bargain: agreement; contract; pact; transaction; deal; treaty; negotiation; arrangement; compact; covenant; concordant; understanding; pledge; promise; engagement. 2) get a bargain: discount; reduction; good buy; sales article; (inf.) snip; steal, giveaway.

enormous- huge; immense; massive; vast; gigantic; colossal; astronomic; mammoth; mountainous; gargantuan; prodigious; tremendous; stupendous; excessive; titanic; Herculean; Brobdingnagian; (inf.) jumbo.

estimate- 1. estimate the cost: make an estimate; calculate roughly/approximately; work out; assess; compute; gauge; reckon; evaluate; judge; appraise; guess; (inf.) guesstimate. 2) I estimate him to be honest: consider; believe; think; regard as; judge; rate; view as; reckon; guess; conjecture; surmise;(lit.) opine.

magnificent- 1) magnificent processions/apartments: splendid; resplendent; grand; grandiose; impressive; imposing; striking; glorious; superb; majestic; august; noble; stately; exalted; awe-inspiring; royal; regal; kingly; princely; sumptuous; opulent; luxurious; lavish; rich; brilliant; radiant; elegant; gorgeous; (inf.) splendiferous; ritzy; posh. 2) a magnificent performance/game: excellent; masterly; skilful; virtuoso; splendid; impressive; fine; marvellous; wonderful; (inf.) terrific; glorious; superb; brilliant; out of this world.

neglect- 1) neglect their children: fail to look after; fail to provide for; abandon; forsake; leave alone. 2) neglect his work: let slide; skimp on; shirk; be remiss about; be lax about; pay little/no attention to; not attend to; leave undone; procrastinate about. 3) neglect to lock the door: omit; fail; forget; not remember; 4) neglect his warning: disregard; ignore; pay no attention/heed to; overlook; disdain; scorn; slight; spurn; rebuff.

oblige- 1) ties of friendship oblige me to go: put under an obligation; leave someone no option; require; necessitate; obligate; compel; call for; force; constrain; press; pressure; pressurize; impel. 2) will you oblige me by going?: do someone a favour; do someone a kindness; do someone a service; serve; accommodate; meet the wants/needs of; help accommodate; put oneself out for; indulge; gratify the wishes of; help; assist.

peculiar- 1) a peculiar smell: strange; odd; queer; funny; curious; unusual; abnormal. 2) peculiar clothes/appearance: strange; odd; queer; funny; curious; unusual; abnormal; eccentric; unconventional; bizarre; weird; quaint; outlandish; out-of-the-way; grotesque; freakish; offbeat; droll; comical; (inf.) far-out; way-out.

plot- 1) nobles plotting against the King: take part in a plot; scheme; conspire; participate in a conspiracy; intrigue; form an intrigue. 2) plot the King's downfall: plan; hatch; scheme; construe; concoct; devise; frame; think up; dream up; conceive; (inf.) cook up.

vanish- 1) she vanished in the mist: disappear; be lost to sight/view; be/become invisible; evaporate; dissipate; disperse; fade; fade away; evanesce; melt away; recede from view; withdraw; depart; leave. 2) a way of life that has vanished/hopes of success have vanished: cease to exist/be; pass away; die out; come to an end; end; be no more; become extinct/obsolete.

Collocations

estimate that
neglect something/to do something
make a bargain with someone
be obliged to do something

Williams

Level: B2

About twenty years after the time of Dr Elizabeth Blackwell, Dr Dan Williams encountered another kind of problem. How could he help to end the fierce stand against Negro doctors? The problems of Elizabeth Blackwell and Dan Williams were alike to a great extent. Both Dr Blackwell and Dr Williams had to persuade the American people to accept them and their ideas. The prospect for success of both Elizabeth Blackwell and Dan Williams was not good. However, after long years of struggle, they went on to triumph over their problems. Dr Daniel Hale Williams came to merit a place among America’s greatest surgeons. He became famous as a result of successfully performing a delicate heart operation which many doctors had said was impossible. Later, other doctors were able to improve their skills by observing his heart operations. Today, all of us can be grateful for the work of Dr Williams.

Glossary

delicate adj. needing careful treatment, esp. because easily damaged: Peaches have delicate skins which are easily bruised.

encounter v. to experience (esp. something unpleasant), or to meet (someone) unexpectedly: The army is reported to be encountering considerable resistance in some remote rural areas.

extent n. area or length; amount: From the top of the Empire State Building, you can see the full extent of Manhattan (= the area it covers).

fierce adj. physically violent and frightening, or strong and powerful, or showing strong feeling, or energetic activity: The two men had been shot during fierce fighting last weekend.

grateful adj. showing or expressing thanks, esp. to another person: I'm so grateful to you for all that you've done.

merit v. to do something to deserve praise, attention, etc.: The accident merited only a small paragraph in the local paper.

observe v. to watch carefully (the way something happens or someone does something), esp. in order to learn more about it: The role of scientists is to observe and describe the world, not to try to control it.

persuade v. to make (someone) do or believe something by giving them a good reason to do it or by talking to them and making them believe it: If she doesn't want to go, nothing you can say will persuade her.

prospect n. a possibility or likelihood of something happening: There's a reasonable prospect of reaching the trapped child before it gets dark.

triumph v. to defeat sb or sth or to be successful: The movie tells the story of a woman from a working-class ghetto who triumphs against the odds to win a place at a top university.

Synonyms

delicate- 1) a delicate matter/situation: difficult; tricky; sensitive; ticklish; critical; precarious; touchy; (inf.) sticky; dicey. 2) require delicate handling: careful; considerate; sensitive; tactful; discreet; diplomatic; politic; kid-glove.

encounter- 1) encounter an old friend: meet; meet by chance; run into; run across; come upon; stumble across; chance/happen upon; (inf.) bump into. 2) encounter problems: be faced with; confront; contend with; tussle with.

extent- 1) the full extent of the track/parklands: length; area; expanse; stretch; range; scope. 2) the extent of her knowledge: coverage; breadth; range; scope; degree; comprehensiveness; thoroughness; completeness; all-inclusiveness.

fierce- a fierce animal/enemy: ferocious; savage; wild; vicious; feral; untamed; bloodthirsty; dangerous; cruel; brutal; murderous; slaughterous; menacing; threatening; terrible; grim; tigerish; wolfish.

grateful- 1) grateful to you: thankful; filled with gratitude; indebted; obliged; obligated; under obligation; beholden. 2) a grateful letter: thankful; appreciative. 3) a grateful rest: pleasant; agreeable; pleasing; pleasurable; satisfying; gratifying; cheering; refreshing; welcome; accept-able; nice.

merit- merit a prize: deserve; be deserving of; earn; be worthy of; be worth; be entitled to; have a right to; have a claim to; warrant; rate; incur.

observe- 1) we observe him go into the bank: see; catch sight of; notice; note; perceive; discern; detect; espy; behold; watch; view; spot; witness; (inf.) get a load of. 2) police observe the house: keep under observation; watch; keep watch on; look at; keep under surveillance; keep in sight; keep in view; spy upon; monitor; reconnoitre; scan; (inf.) keep an eye on; keep tabs on. 3) doctors observe the patient: keep under observation; keep under scrutiny; scrutinize; watch; monitor; keep under surveillance; inspect; study; review; examine; check.

persuade- persuade her to go despite her disinclination: prevail upon; win over; talk someone into; bring round; induce; convince; influence; sway; prompt; coerce; inveigle; cajole; wheedle; (inf.) sweet-talk; soft-soap.

prospect- 1) there is little prospect of success: likelihood; likeliness; hope; expectation; anticipation; chance; chances; odds; probability; possibility. 2) the prospect of being unemployed frightens him: thought; idea; contemplation; outlook.

triumph- triumph over his opponent/disability: beat; defeat; conquer; vanquish; best; worst; overcome; overpower; get the better of; gain ascendancy over; gain mastery of; prevail against.

Collocations

to a great/small extent

persuade someone to do something

grateful (to someone) (for something)

Blackwell

Level: B2

Years ago, people were not accustomed to the idea of a woman’s being a doctor. In order to get into medical school in 1847, Elizabeth Blackwell was asked to conceal the fact that she was a woman. This was contrary to her beliefs, and she did not do it. After entering medical school, Elizabeth often had to summon all her courage to face the unkindness of teachers and classmates. By her supreme efforts, she was able to complete her studies. Many people came to her graduation just to get a glimpse of a woman doctor. Dr. Blackwell soon found that most people were not inclined to go to a woman doctor. She had to struggle to earn a living. Then came the glorious day when she was offered a job as a doctor in a hospital. She did so well that she was asked to organize a new hospital and medical college. The United States today can boast of thousands of women doctors.

Glossary

accustom (someone to something) phrasal v. to make (someone, esp. yourself) familiar with (new conditions): It'll take time for me to accustom myself to the changes.

boast v. to have or possess something to be proud of : Ireland boasts beautiful beaches, great restaurants and friendly locals.

conceal v. to prevent (something) from being seen or known about; to hide (something): The entrance to the house is concealed behind high gates.

contrary adj. opposite: Contrary to all our expectations he's actually found a well-paid job and a nice girlfriend.

glimpse n. a look at somebody or something for a very short time or only partly: I caught a fleeting glimpse of the driver of the getaway car, but I doubt I would recognize her if I saw her again.

glorious adj. deserving admiration, praise and honour; beautiful: This was yet another glorious victory for the team.

incline v. to have a mental leaning towards; to be predisposed or have an inclination to or to do: The poor relations between the two countries incline me to feel (= make me tend to feel) pessimistic about an early settlement.

organize v. to make arrangements for (something) to happen: The group organizes theatre trips once a month.

summon v. to gather (your bravery or strength), esp. with effort: It took me six months to summon (up) the courage to ask her out for a drink.

supreme adj. at the highest level: The present constitution gives supreme authority to the presidency.

Synonyms

accustom- accustom herself to the new situation: adapt; adjust; acclimatize; get used to; make familiar/acquainted with; habituate.

boast- the town boasts two museums: possess; have; own; enjoy; pride oneself/itself on.

conceal- 1) conceal her face/conceal the letter: hide; cover; keep out of sight; keep hidden; screen; obscure; disguise; camouflage; mask; secrete; shelter; bury; tuck away. 2) conceal his identity: hide; keep secret; keep dark; hush up; cover up; dissemble; (inf.) keep the lid on.

contrary to- against; in opposition to; not in accord with.

glimpse- glance; brief look; quick look; peek; peep; (inf.) gander; once-over.

glorious- 1) our glorious monarch: illustrious; noble; celebrated; famous; famed; renowned; distinguished; honoured; eminent; excellent; magnificent; majestic; splendid; supreme; sublime; triumphant; victorious. 2) a glorious day: beautiful; bright; brilliant; sunny; perfect. 3) have a glorious time: splendid; marvellous; wonderful; delightful; enjoyable; pleasurable; excellent; fine; (inf.) terrific; great; fab.

incline- 1) that inclines me to believe you/I'm inclined to believe you: predispose; dispose; influence; bias; prejudice; sway; make willing; persuade; bend. 2) the door is inclined to bang: have a tendency; be liable/likely.

organize- establish; set up; form; lay the foundations of; found; institute; create; originate; begin; start; develop; build; frame; construct; assemble; structure; shape; mould; put together; arrange; dispose; regulate; marshal; put in order; put straight; coordinate; systematize; methodize; standardize; collocate; group; sort; sort out; classify; categorize; catalogue; codify; tabulate; be responsible for; be in charge of; take care of; administrate; run; manage; lick/knock into shape; see to.

summon- 1) summon (up) the courage to act: gather; collect; muster; rally; call into action; mobilize. 2) summon (up) half-forgotten memories: call to mind; bring to mind; call up; conjure up; evoke; recall; revive.

supreme- 1) the supreme commander: highest-ranking; highest; leading; chief; foremost; principal. 2) supreme bravery/a supreme effort: extreme; greatest; utmost; uttermost; maximum; extraordinary; remarkable.

Collocations

be accustomed to something

conceal the fact that

contrary to something

summon your courage to do something

get a glimpse of someone or something

be inclined to do something

Pasteur

Level: B2

Louis Pasteur, another of the world’s brilliant scientists, was born in 1839, just eight years before Edison. While still a young boy, Louis made his decision to become a scientist. He spent much of his lifetime studying the diseases of cattle, chickens and other domestic animals. His wife learned to assist him in his work. Almost everyone knows that Pasteur is the man responsible for finding a way of keeping milk from spoiling. Not many people know he was the first to suspect and prove that the air we breathe is full of germs. One of his greatest successes was finding a treatment for people and animals to prevent a disease called rabies. Louis Pasteur won many honours and could have acquired large amounts of money. But Pasteur preferred to live simply. The real happiness of this remarkable man came from his work.

Glossary

acquire v. to obtain (something): She acquired an original painting by Van Gogh.

assist v. to help: We assisted the firefighters in extinguishing the blaze.

brilliant adj. extremely clever or highly skilled: Her mother was a brilliant scientist.

decision n. the ability to decide quickly and positively, with a clear result: She acted with decision, closing the bank account and phoning the police.

domestic adj. of the home, house or family: Many women feel they cannot apply for the top jobs because of domestic commitments.

prefer v. to choose or want (one thing) rather than another because it would be more pleasant or suitable: We have tea and coffee, but perhaps you'd prefer a cold drink.

remarkable adj. unusual or special and therefore surprising and worth mentioning: Nelson Mandela is a truly remarkable man.

responsible adj. having the job or duty of doing something or taking care of somebody or something so that you may be blamed if something goes wrong: All the members of the Cabinet are collectively responsible for the decisions taken.

suspect v. to think or believe (something) to be true or probable: So far, the police do not suspect foul play.

treatment n. the application of medical care or attention to a patient: In the UK you get free dental treatment while you're pregnant.

Synonyms

acquire- obtain; come by; get; receive; gain; procure; earn; win; secure; take possession of; gather; collect; pick up; achieve; attain; appropriate; amass.

assist- assist the police: help; aid; lend a hand; succour; support; cooperate/collaborate with; abet; work with; play a part.

brilliant- 1) brilliant children: bright; clever; intelligent; smart; brainy; intellectual; gifted; talented; accomplished; educated; scholarly; learned; erudite; cerebral; precocious. 2) a brilliant course of action: clever; intelligent; smart; astute; cute; acute; masterly; resourceful; inventive; discerning.

decision- come to a decision: resolution, conclusion, determination, settling, settlement.

domestic- a domestic animal: domesticated; tame; pet; house-trained; trained; not wild.

prefer- 1) prefer cheese to dessert: like better; favour; be more partial to; incline towards; choose; select; pick; opt for; go for; plump for; single out; (inf.) fancy. 2) prefer to go by bus: like better; would rather; would sooner; favour; choose; opt; elect; wish; want.

remarkable- a remarkable achievement: out of the ordinary; extraordinary; unusual; uncommon; conspicuous; singular; signal; rare; exceptional; outstanding; striking; impressive; considerable; notable; noteworthy; memorable; pre-eminent; significant; important; momentous; phenomenal; wonderful.

responsible- responsible for any damage or injury: in charge of, in control of, at the helm of, accountable, amenable, answerable, liable.

suspect- 1) I suspect you could be right: feel; have a feeling; be inclined to think; fancy; surmise; guess; conjecture; have a suspicion that; speculate; have a hunch; suppose; believe; think; conclude. 2) suspect the truth of his statement: doubt; have doubts about; harbour suspicions about; have misgivings about; be sceptical about; distrust; mistrust.

treatment- wounds responding to treatment: medical care; medication; medicament; therapy; doctoring; nursing; first aid; care; ministration; cure; remedy; drugs; therapeutics.

Collocations

make your decision to do something

assist somebody in (doing) something

(be) responsible for something

a treatment for (a disease)

prefer to do something

Edison

Level: B2

Just as we take jet planes for granted today, most of us are unable to think what it would be like without electric lights. Many of us also enjoy the luxury of hearing our favourite records whenever we want to play them. And to go to a movie is no longer a venture. Not many of us associate these pleasures with the name of Thomas Alva Edison. Thomas Edison, with the help of others, enabled us to have electric lights, phonographs and even movies. In 1859 when only twelve years old, Edison developed an extreme interest in electricity. As a man, Edison had an unusual capacity for working many hours with very little sleep. He also had a special ability for putting ideas to work quickly. As a result of his many years of constant testing of new ideas, Edison became one of the world’s great inventors. Because of Thomas Edison’s years of toil, we are able to enjoy many hours of pleasure.

Glossary

ability n. the physical or mental power or skill needed to do something: Someone of her ability is bound to succeed.

associate v. to join or connect (people, things or ideas) together, or to be connected (with a person, organization or idea): I don't want my children associating with drug-addicts and alcoholics. Why do men associate enjoying themselves with getting drunk?

capacity n. the total amount that can be contained or produced, or (esp. of a person or organization) the ability to do a particular thing: She has a great capacity for hard work.

constant adj. staying the same; not getting less or more: We've kept a fairly constant speed all journey.

enable v. to make (someone) able to do something by providing them with whatever is necessary to achieve it, or to make (something) possible: Computerization should enable us to cut production costs by half.

extreme adj. very great: Jim's a real extreme sports enthusiast - he's been white-water rafting, bungee jumping and skydiving.

luxury n. great comfort, esp. as provided by expensive and beautiful things, or something which is pleasant to have but is not necessary: We'll never have enough money to be able to live in luxury.

toil n. hard work, esp. that which is physically tiring: An illegal worker will earn more here in a week than he would in a month of toil back home.

unable adj. not able: She was unable to account for over $5 000 (= she could not explain where the money was).

venture n. a plan of action, usually in business, which involves risk or uncertainty: She advised us to look abroad for more lucrative business ventures.

Synonyms

ability- 1) a person of outstanding ability: talent; competence; competency; proficiency; skill; expertise; expertness; adeptness; aptitude; dexterity; adroitness; qualification; cleverness; flair; gift; knack; savoir faire; (inf.) know-how. 2) the ability to cope: capacity; capability; potential; potentiality; power; aptness; facility; faculty; propensity.

associate- associate wine with France: link; connect; relate; think of together; couple.

capacity- have the capacity to do the job: ability; capability; aptitude; potential; faculty; facility; power; competence; competency; proficiency; accomplishment; cleverness; intelligence; brains; head.

constant- 1) at a constant speed/temperature: uniform, even, regular, stable, steady, fixed, invariable, unvarying, unchanging, immutable. 2) a constant stream of people: continuous; unbroken; uninterrupted. 3) constant chattering: continual; never-ending; endless; unending; non-stop; incessant; unceasing; ceaseless; perpetual; persistent; interminable; unremitting; sustained; relentless; unrelenting.

enable- 1) enable you to vote: allow; permit; authorize; entitle; qualify; fit; license; sanction; warrant; accredit; validate; commission; delegate; legalize; empower. 2) enable you to cross the river: allow; permit; give the means/resources to; equip; prepare; facilitate; capacitate.

extreme- 1) in extreme danger/extreme cold: utmost; uttermost; maximum; supreme; greatest; great; acute; intense; severe; highest; high; ultimate; exceptional; extraordinary. 2) extreme punitive measures: harsh; severe; Draconian; stringent; stern; strict; drastic; unrelenting; relentless; unbending; unyielding; uncompromising; unmitigated; radical; overzealous.

luxury- 1) live in luxury: luxuriousness; opulence; affluence; sumptuousness; richness; grandeur; splendour; magnificence; lavishness; lap of luxury; bed of roses. 2) the luxury of independence: boon; benefit; advantage; delight; bliss; comfort. 3) one of life's luxuries: extra; non-essential; frill; extravagance; indulgence; treat; refinement.

toil- years of toil wore him out: hard/heavy work; labour; slog; slaving; striving; donkey-work; drudgery; application; industry; effort; exertion; travail; sweat of one's brow; (inf.) elbow-grease; grind; graft.

unable- unable to get about/unable to reach the standard: not able; incapable; powerless; impotent; not up/equal to; inadequate; ineffectual; incompetent; unfit; unfitted; unqualified.

venture- 1) explorers engaged in a new venture: adventure; exploit; mission; risky undertaking. 2) a business venture: enterprise; undertaking; project; speculation; fling; plunge; gamble.

Collocations

take something for granted

be unable to do something

associate something with something else

enable someone to do something

have a capacity/an ability for something/doing something

Lindbergh

Level: B2

As a boy, Charles Lindbergh had an ambition to fly a plane. He could not know that as a consequence of this desire, he would become famous. While flying as an airmail pilot in 1926, Lindbergh was induced to enter a contest. A very generous man offered twenty five thousand dollars to anyone who could fly a plane from New York to Paris, France, without stopping. Lindbergh was eager to try for the prize. He was convinced that he could make the trip safely. On May 20, 1927, in his small but capable plane, “The Spirit of St. Louise,” he took off from New York. The Spirit of St. Louise, with Charles Lindbergh at the controls, descended at Le Bourget Airport outside Paris the next evening. This first nonstop flight from New York to Paris made an impression on the people all over the world. The commercial airlines of today owe much of their success to the courageous flight of Charles Lindbergh.

Glossary

ambition n. a strong desire for success, achievement, power or wealth: She's got a lot of ambition, so she's bound to be successful.

capable adj. able; (of people) skilful and effective, or (of people or things) having enough ability or power to do something: She's a very capable judge.

commercial adj. engaged in commerce; of, pertaining to, or bearing on commerce: This property is suitable for domestic or commercial use.

consequence n. an often bad or inconvenient result of a particular action or situation: I missed the bus this morning and as a consequence was late for work.

convince v. to make (someone) certain; to persuade: Your explanation might have convinced Sheila, but it didn't convince me.

descend v. to go or come down (something): The path descended steeply into the valley below.

eager adj. wanting very much to do or have esp. something interesting or enjoyable: Lots of eager volunteers responded to the appeal for help.

generous adj. (esp. of a person) willing to give money, help, kindness, etc., esp. more than is usual or expected, or (of an object) larger than usual or expected: It was most generous of you to lend me the money.

impression n. the way that something seems, looks or feels to a particular person: I think he made quite an impression on the girls (i.e. caused them to notice and admire him) at the tennis club.

induce v. to persuade (someone) to do something, or to cause (something) to happen: They induced her to take the job by promising editorial freedom.

Synonyms

ambition- 1. full of ambition to succeed: desire; aspiration; drive; striving; force; enterprise; eagerness; zeal; longing; yearning; hankering; (inf.) get-up-and-go; oomph; 2. her ambition is to be boss: goal; aim; objective; purpose; intent; desire; wish; design; end; dream; hope.

capable- a very capable young woman: able; competent; adequate; efficient; effective; proficient; accomplished; talented; gifted; adept; skilful; masterly; experienced; practiced; qualified; clever; intelligent; smart.

commercial- 1) commercial training: business; trade; marketing; merchandizing; sales; mercantile. 2) not a commercial proposition: profitable; profit-making; business. 3) town becoming too commercial: profit-orientated; money-orientated; mercantile; materialistic; mercenary.

consequence- the consequence of the decision: result; effect; upshot; outcome; issue; event; end; aftermath; repercussion; reverberation.

convince- 1) she convinced me that I was wrong: make one certain; prove to; satisfy; assure; reassure. 2) convince him to vote for them: persuade; prevail upon; sway; talk round; bring around; win over.

descend- 1) descend the hill/stairs: go down; come down; move down; climb down; pass down. 2) the balloon descended: go down; come down; drop; fall; sink; subside; plummet; plunge; tumble; slump. 3) descend from the train: get down; get off; alight; dismount; disembark; detrain; deplane. 4) the hill descended to the valley: go down; slope; incline; dip; slant.

eager- 1) eager pupils: keen; enthusiastic; impatient; avid; fervent; earnest; diligent; zealous; passionate; wholehearted; ambitious; enterprising; (inf.) bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. 2) eager to learn/eager for news: agog; anxious; intent; longing; yearning; itching; wishing; desirous; hopeful; thirsty; hungry; greedy; (inf.) hot.

generous- 1) generous with money/a generous host: liberal; kind; magnanimous; benevolent; beneficent; bountiful; bounteous; munificent; hospitable; charitable; open-handed; lavish; ungrudging; unstinting; free-handed; princely. 2) a generous spirit: noble; magnanimous; lofty; high-minded; honourable; good; unselfish; altruistic; unprejudiced; disinterested.

impression- make an impression on the crowd: effect; influence; sway; impact; hold; power; control.

induce- 1) induce them to go: persuade; talk into; get; prevail upon; prompt; move; inspire; instigate; influence; exert influence on; press; urge; incite; encourage; impel; actuate; motivate; inveigle; coax; wheedle. 2) induce a reaction: bring about; bring on; cause; produce; effect; create; give rise to; generate; originate; engender; occasion; set in motion; develop; lead to.

Collocations

as a boy

have an ambition to do something

as a consequence of

be induced to do something

be eager to do something

be convinced that

make an impression on someone

All in a Day's Work

Level: B2

A. … So how did it go?

B. Well, at first he wouldn't open up, and I had to try to draw him out. He's a bit shy, you know, and calms up easily, but between you and me, I reckon he fancies me. Then, I was about to ask him to stop beating about the bush and tell me how he really felt about me when Jenny butted in on us-

A. Uh oh. Here comes my boss. I'll have to go.

B. Okay. I'll call later to pick up on-

A. Bye. [Hangs up.] Good morning, ma'am.

C. Morning. Was it Martha in Human Resources?

A. Yes, ma'am.

C. Don't let that girl bend your ear about her silly problems. And don't let her in on what we're planning.

A. No, ma'am. I can hold my tongue.

C. I hope so. You were supposed to touch base with her boss, Mr. Parker.

A. I tried but couldn't get through to him.

C. All right. Any calls?

A. Yes, ma'am. Ms. Bennett from Accounting made an early call.

C. Oh, her. She badly wants to be in the loop on our campaign, but I can't possibly let her get wind of our plans.

A. Yes, she definitely said you are actively cutting her out of the loop.

C. Now, lend an ear to me, Margaret. Bennett's a cunning woman, and very persuasive. Even I had to bit my tongue once while talking to her on the phone the other day.

A. I'll be careful, ma'am.

C. Good. Now, get in touch with Mr. Parker asap. Tell him I'll see him after the management meeting this afternoon to compare notes with him.

A. I'll call him right away. Is that all, ma'am?

C. Yes, for now.

Glossary

open up (to someone) (about something)- stop being shy and talk freely;

draw someone out- encourage someone to talk and express themselves freely;

calm up- refuse to talk;

between you and me- this is private;

beat about/around the bush- talk about something for a long time and avoid to talk about the main point;

butt in (on someone)- rudely interrupt a conversation;

pick up on something- return to a point or subject already mentioned or discussed;

bend someone's ear (about something)- talk for a long time;

let someone in on something- tell a secret to someone;

hold your tongue or bite your tongue- stop yourself from saying something that may cause a problem;

touch base (with someone)- talk to someone briefly to find out about something;

get through (to someone)- reach someone on the phone;

in the loop/out of the loop- included in/excluded from those people that deal with something important;

get wind of something- find out about a secret;

lend an ear (to someone)- listen to someone;

in touch (with someone)- communication with someone;

compare notes (with someone)- share opinions about the same event, situation, etc.

Eyes Bigger than Stomach

Level: B2

You say she's furious? I don't see why she should be! I mean we just had a small party with the guys. Man, I love breaking bread with my buddies. We occasionally get together and whip up something and drink to each other's health. That's all. We don't usually pig out. Last night, of course, was a bit different. Your favourite team doesn't win every day, right? So we put away pizza and Chinese takeaway, and we broke out champagne to wash down the sausages and burgers we found in the fridge. Furious, is she? Well, maybe we stuffed ourselves a little bit; Doug definitely ate like a horse, as usual; there's no denying that. But Bryan didn't. His girlfriend had dumped her, and all he did last night was to sit quietly and pick at his food. He tanked up on the booze, though, surely to drown his sorrows. Did she say why she's so mad at me? What? I'm eating her out of house and home? Come on! It's not fair! Not fair at all! And after all we've been through. How long have I known her? Oh, we met at the game last night.

Glossary

break bread with someone- eat together;

whip up something- quickly make something to eat;

drink to someone/something- wish someone success, health, etc. before having an alcoholic drink;

pig out- eat a lot of food all at once;

put something away- eat or drink a lot;

break something out- serve food or drink;

wash something down- drink something to help you swallow food or medicine;

stuff yourself or stuff your face- eat so much that you cannot eat anymore;

eat like a horse- eat a lot;

pick at something- eat small amounts with no enjoyment;

tank up on something- drink a lot;

drown your sorrows- drink a lot of alcohol to forget your problems;

eat someone out of house and home- eat a lot in someone’s home;

Fiona's Presentation

Level: B2

A. How did you like the meeting yesterday?

B. Well, Fiona's presentation was fantastic!

A. You can say that again! Her performance was brilliantly flawless, her report was amply informative and her poise was admirable!

B. And how! The boss must have loved it, too.

A. On the contrary. He doesn't seem to see eye to eye with Fiona on several points.

B. He doesn't? But he looked so interested at the meeting.

A. You've got to be kidding! He was deliberately playing games on his phone during her presentation. Anyway, I don't reckon he'll be around for long.

B. No?

A. Of course not. He's at odds with the board of directors on almost everything. They have taken issue with him over his latest changes in the Public Relations Department. They feel he should have sounded out the board about the changes first.

B. You seem so well-informed.

A. You bet I am! I'm his secretary after all. And I can assure you he's in for it really soon. But I'm glad I said my piece at the meeting. Fiona gave a dazzling performance, and the staff had to speak up. I'm convinced she has won over the board of directors. I wish you had put in your two pennyworth, too.

B. You must be kidding! You know I can't be on a different wavelength from the boss.

A. I can understand where you're coming from, but he's your husband only at home; you do have the right to disagree with him at work.

B. Well, maybe you're right.

Glossary

You can say that again!- I agree with you completely.
And how!- I agree with you strongly.
On the contrary- the opposite of the last thing said;
(not) see eye to eye with someone (on/about something)- (not) agree with someone;
You've got to be kidding! or You must be kidding!- I don't agree; you are joking.
be at odds with someone (over/on something)- disagree with someone;
take issue with someone/something- start disagreeing with;
sound someone/something out (about something)- try to find out what someone thinks about a plan or idea;
You bet- I agree; I'm willing to do what you suggest.
be in for it- be going to experience something unpleasant very soon;
say your piece- say exactly what you think or feel;
speak up (for someone/something)- say what you think clearly and freely especially in order to support or defend someone/something;
win someone over- get someone's support or approval by persuading them that you're right;
put in your two pennyworth (UK) or put in your two cents’ worth (US)- give your opinion about something even if other people do not want to hear it;
be on the same/a different wavelength as/from someone- have the same or different opinions and feelings;
where someone is coming from- what causes someone to have a particular opinion or say or do something;