Text 1

W: Hello, can I pay by credit card for the pizza?

M: I'm sorry. Our restaurant is not set up to take credit cards over the phone for delivery orders. It's cash only, and we would appreciate it if you paid our driver with the smallest bill possible.

Text 2

M: So, as an expert, what new technology do you think we will see in 2026?

W: We will continue to see improvements in machine learning and computer intelligence, leading to progress in the Internet of Things and 6G. I also hope to see new clean energy technology coming into the market.

Text 3

W: I have heard you are going to England tomorrow. I want to see you off at the airport. When will you leave?

M: One in the afternoon, but I am to check in at 11:20 in the morning.

W: Then I will see you at the airport at 11 o'clock in the morning.

Text 4

W: Have you ever watched the game for disabled athletes?

M: Yes, watching these athletes is a moving experience, because disabled athletes have to adapt to their disability, and make a huge effort to succeed.

W: So they need encouragement, and shouldn't be made fun of.

M: I couldn't agree more.

Text 5

M: Most of the world's rainforests are in danger. They are disappearing at an alarming rate.

W: Yeah, many plants and a large population of animals exist only in rainforests. Have you heard of the Amazon rainforest fires in 2019?

M: Yes, they led to mass loss of wildlife.

Text 6

M: Global Language Center. May I help you?

W: Yes, I would like some information about your study abroad programs.

M: Sure, our short-term programs are eight weeks long.

W: Eight weeks is perfect. I have to start a new job in the fall. Can you tell me what kind of housing is available?

M: We place all of our students in homestay. If you like, I can send you our brochure and some information about our host families.

W: OK, thanks.

Text 7

W: You don't look well. What troubles you, Daniel?

M: Well, you know, our music teacher has asked me to prepare something for the city piano competition. I have chosen a piece of Beethoven's music.

W: That is great, Daniel. We all know you are the best in our class, and I hope you will win.

M: The only problem is that my mother is not feeling well. Can you imagine what my practicing at home would do to her?

W: There must be a solution.

Text 8

M: Hi, Elena. Congratulations on bringing out your book about fund raising for nonprofit organizations.

W: Thanks. I couldn't have done it without the support from everyone here at the Society for Wildlife Preservation.

M: If it is possible, I would like you to give a talk on your book to the public. I think it would really encourage everyone to think creatively about how we can attract more donors to help our cause.

W: Sure, I can do that, but it will have to wait until next month, because I am going to a meeting on protecting the wetland.

Text 9

M: Hello, everyone. Welcome to our program. Today we are fortunate to have a special guest with us. Her name is Yang Liu, a performer of bamboo drifting. When did you begin to learn bamboo drifting?

W: I learned it from my grandmother when I was 7.

M: Could you share your learning experience with us?

W: With pleasure. Usually, the bamboo under my feet is about 9 meters long, and the bamboo in my hands is about 5 meters long. I fell in the water several times when I was practicing. So keeping my body from falling into the water is the most difficult part of bamboo drifting.

M: What makes you keep going?

W: Just the love for the ancient skill. In the past 17 years, I have been drifting all year round, in winter cold and summer heat. Now, I'm able to do Chinese kung fu on the water. And I put dance into bamboo drifting to make it elegant. As Hanfu culture has been on the rise, I started wearing Hanfu when performing, creating a beautiful feel.

M: We all know you registered on social media platforms and posted your videos.

W: Yes, I want to spread it to other countries, so that more people around the world will like Chinese culture.

M: I totally agree with you. It was good to talk to you. I feel like I always learn so much more when I get the chance to speak with you about these things.

Text 10

M: Microplastics are everywhere in our environment. Measuring 50 to 500 micrometers in length, microplastics come from a variety of sources, including large plastics that break down into smaller pieces. Therefore, much remains unknown about the common existence of these materials within the human body, as well as their impact on human health. A research team led by Kieran Cox studied 26 papers on the amount of microplastics in common foods. Using previously reported data, the team evaluated the potential consumption of microplastics and calculated annual intake via food and drink at 39,000 to 52,000 particles. The study found that people who drink only bottled water absorb an additional 90,000 microplastics each year, compared to 4,000 among those who only drink tap water. But the food and drink that the researchers analyzed represent 15 percent of Americans' caloric intake. The team couldn't account for food groups like fruits, vegetables and grains, because there simply is not enough data on their microplastic content. For those who are worried about microplastic consumption, cutting down bottled water is a good start. But as for the heart of the problem, we have to stop producing and using so much plastic.