• a colorful Khmer New Year celebration in Phnom Penh filled with traditions, food, and fun

Subject: My Visit to Nokor Sangkranta festival

Dear Salas,

I hope you are fine. I want to tell you about a festival I visited last year in Phnom Penh. It is called Nokor Sangkranta. It is part of the Khmer New Year, Chaul Chnam Thmey. The festival is very big and it is from April 14 to April 19.

I went to the festival with my family. First, we visited a temple. The temple was very beautiful. There were many flowers and candles. We gave food to the monks and prayed for health and happiness. I felt very calm and happy in the temple.

After that, we watched traditional dances and music. There were also martial arts shows. Children played games like tug-of-war and other competitions. I joined some games too, and it was fun.

We also visited the markets. There were many food stalls and local crafts. I tried some Cambodian dishes. They were very delicious! I bought small gifts and souvenirs for my friends.

The festival was very colorful. People were happy and smiling. Families and friends were together. I enjoyed the festival very much. I learned a lot about Cambodian culture and traditions.

I hope you can visit Nokor Sangkranta one day. It is a very special and happy festival.

Best wishes,
Char

_________________________

Vocabulary:

• a celebration – a happy event with people, music, or food.
• a candle – a stick that you can light to make light.
• a monk – a man who lives in a temple and prays to God.
• to pray – to speak to God or a spirit for help or thanks.
• health – the state of being well and not sick.
• to feel calm – to feel relaxed and quiet.
• traditional dance – a dance from a country long ago, done by many people.
• martial arts – sports like fighting, using hands or feet, with rules.
• tug-of-war – a game where two teams pull a rope in opposite directions.
• a competition – a game or event where people try to win.
• to join a game – to play a game with other people.
• a food stall – a small shop or table that sells food.
• a local craft – things made by people in a country, like art or tools.
• cambodian dishes – food from Cambodia.
• to be delicious – to taste very good.
• a gift – something you give to someone to make them happy.
• to enjoy – to feel happy with an activity.
• a tradition – something people do for a long time, usually at special times.

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Basics in past simple:

Past Simple –

• Regular Verbs:
• Most verbs: add -ed
  play → played
• Verbs ending in -e: add -d
  live → lived
• Verbs ending in consonant + y: change y to i and add -ed
  study → studied
• Short verbs ending in vowel + consonant: double the final consonant and add -ed
  stop → stopped
• List of irregular verbs => LINK

Use:
The past simple is used to talk about finished actions in the past.

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Past simple forms of ‚to be‘:

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Short answers in past simple:

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Fill in, past simple:

1. Char __________ (go) to the festival with her family.
   
   YOU FILL IN:
   went
   
2. They __________ (visit) a temple.
3. They __________ (give) food to the monks.
4. Char __________ (pray) for health and happiness.
5. She __________ (watch) traditional dances.
6. She __________ (join) some games.
7. Char __________ (try) Cambodian dishes.
8. She __________ (buy) souvenirs for her friends.
9. She __________ (enjoy) the festival very much.
10. She __________ (feel) happy and calm in the temple.
11. Families __________ (celebrate) the Khmer New Year together.
12. Children __________ (play) tug-of-war at the festival.
13. People __________ (decorate) the temples with flowers and candles.
14. Visitors __________ (learn) about Cambodian traditions.
15. Tourists __________ (take) many photos.
16. They __________ (call) their friends to join the festival.
17. Everyone __________ (say) “Happy New Year!” to each other.
18. People __________ (share) food and drinks at the market.
19. Monks __________ (bless) the visitors at the temple.
20. Char __________ (hope) to come again next year.

———————————–

Correct version:

1. Char went to the festival with her family.
2. They visited a temple.
3. They gave food to the monks.
4. Char prayed for health and happiness.
5. She watched traditional dances.
6. She joined some games.
7. Char tried Cambodian dishes.
8. She bought souvenirs for her friends.
9. She enjoyed the festival very much.
10. She felt happy and calm in the temple.
11. Families celebrated the Khmer New Year together.
12. Children played tug-of-war at the festival.
13. People decorated the temples with flowers and candles.
14. Visitors learned about Cambodian traditions.
15. Tourists took many photos.
16. They called their friends to join the festival.
17. Everyone said “Happy New Year!” to each other.
18. People shared food and drinks at the market.
19. Monks blessed the visitors at the temple.
20. Char hoped to come again next year.

##################

Complete as shown in 1.,
a) negation,
b) question,
c) negative question.

1. Char went to the festival with her family.
   a) Char did not go to the festival with her family.
   b) Did Char go to the festival with her family?
   c) Didn’t Char go to the festival with her family?
   
2. They visited a temple.
   
3. They gave food to the monks.
   
4. Char prayed for health and happiness.
   
5. She bought souvenirs for her friends.
   
6. Char hoped to come again.
   
7. She enjoyed the festival very much.
   
8. Tourists took many photos.

____________________________

Correct answers:

1. Char went to the festival with her family.
   a) Char did not go to the festival with her family.
   b) Did Char go to the festival with her family?
   c) Didn’t Char go to the festival with her family?
2. They visited a temple.
   a) They did not visit a temple.
   b) Did they visit a temple?
   c) Didn’t they visit a temple?
3. They gave food to the monks.
   a) They did not give food to the monks.
   b) Did they give food to the monks?
   c) Didn’t they give food to the monks?
4. Char prayed for health and happiness.
   a) Char did not pray for health and happiness.
   b) Did Char pray for health and happiness?
   c) Didn’t Char pray for health and happiness?
5. She bought souvenirs for her friends.
   a) She did not buy souvenirs for her friends.
   b) Did she buy souvenirs for her friends?
   c) Didn’t she buy souvenirs for her friends?
6. Char hoped to come again.
   a) Char did not hope to come again.
   b) Did Char hope to come again?
   c) Didn’t Char hope to come again?
7. She enjoyed the festival very much.
   a) She did not enjoy the festival very much.
   b) Did she enjoy the festival very much?
   c) Didn’t she enjoy the festival very much?
8. Tourists took many photos.
   a) Tourists did not take many photos.
   b) Did tourists take many photos?
   c) Didn’t tourists take many photos?

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True or false:

1. The festival had no food stalls.
2. People prayed for health and happiness.
3. Cambodian dishes were only for monks.
4. Children and adults played games like tug-of-war.
5. Everyone ignored the monks during the festival.
6. The temples were decorated with flowers and candles.
7. The festival did not have any traditional dances.
8. Visitors bought local crafts and souvenirs.
9. Monks celebrated by playing martial arts.
10. Char felt calm when she visited the temple.
11. The festival was a big celebration of Cambodian culture.
12. People did not join any games at the festival.
13. Children played tug-of-war at the festival.
14. People gave food and gifts to monks and the poor.

_____________________

True: 2,4,6,8,10,11,13,14

_____________________

Correct version:

1. The festival had no food stalls.
   True is: The festival had many food stalls.
2. People prayed for health and happiness.
3. Cambodian dishes were only for monks.
   True is: Cambodian dishes were for visitors and families at the festival.
4. Children and adults played games like tug-of-war.
5. Everyone ignored the monks during the festival.
   True is: People visited the monks and gave them food.
6. The temples were decorated with flowers and candles.
7. The festival did not have any traditional dances.
   True is: The festival had traditional dances.
8. Visitors bought local crafts and souvenirs.
9. Monks celebrated by playing martial arts.
   True is: People watched martial arts performances at the festival.
10. Char felt calm when she visited the temple.
11. The festival was a big celebration of Cambodian culture.
12. People did not join any games at the festival.
    True is: People joined games and competitions at the festival.
13. Children played tug-of-war at the festival.
14. People gave food and gifts to monks and the poor.

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Short answers, rewrite as shown in 1.:

1. Char traveled to the festival alone.
   
   YOU WRITE:
   No, she didn’t.
   She traveled with her family.
   
2. The visitors gave money to the monks in the market.
3. People decorated the temples with balloons and flags.
4. Children studied mathematics during the festival games.
5. The festival lasted only one day in March.
6. People ate only foreign food at the market.
7. Tourists watched a football match at the temple.
8. The monks played tug-of-war with the tourists.
9. Char cooked Cambodian dishes for everyone at the temple.
10. Families slept in the market during the festival.

__________________________

Correct version:

1. Char traveled to the festival alone.
   No, she didn’t. She traveled with her family.
2. The visitors gave money to the monks in the market.
   No, they didn’t. They gave food and gifts to monks at the temple.
3. People decorated the temples with balloons and flags.
   No, they didn’t. They decorated the temples with flowers and candles.
4. Children studied mathematics during the festival games.
   No, they didn’t. They played games and competitions.
5. The festival lasted only one day in March.
   No, it didn’t. It lasted from April 14 to April 19.
6. People ate only foreign food at the market.
   No, they didn’t. They ate Cambodian dishes.
7. Tourists watched a football match at the temple.
   No, they didn’t. They watched traditional dances and martial arts.
8. The monks played tug-of-war with the tourists.
   No, they didn’t. Children and adults played tug-of-war.
9. Char cooked Cambodian dishes for everyone at the temple.
   No, she didn’t. She tried Cambodian dishes at the market.
10. Families slept in the market during the festival.
    No, they didn’t. They enjoyed the festival together.

################

Short answers:

1. Did Char go to the festival with her family?
   
   YOU WRITE:
   Yes, she did.
   
2. Did the festival happen in December?
   
   No, it didn’t.
   The festival happened from April 14 to April 19.
   
3. Did people visit temples during the festival?
4. Were the temples decorated with flowers and candles?
5. Was Nokor Sangkranta part of the Khmer New Year?
6. Did Char cook food for the monks at the temple?
7. Was the festival only for tourists?
8. Did the festival last only one day?
9. Did visitors buy souvenirs and local crafts?
10. Did children study in school during the festival games?
11. Did the festival have swimming competitions?
12. Were families and friends together at the festival?
13. Did people play football during the festival?
14. Were there food stalls at the market?

____________________

Correct answers:

1. Did Char go to the festival with her family?
   Yes, she did.
2. Did the festival happen in December?
   No, it didn’t. The festival happened from April 14 to April 19.
3. Did people visit temples during the festival?
   Yes, they did.
4. Were the temples decorated with flowers and candles?
   Yes, they were.
5. Was Nokor Sangkranta part of the Khmer New Year?
   Yes, it was.
6. Did Char cook food for the monks at the temple?
   No, she didn’t. She tried Cambodian dishes at the market.
7. Was the festival only for tourists?
   No, it wasn’t. The festival was for families, locals, and tourists.
8. Did the festival last only one day?
   No, it didn’t. The festival lasted several days, from April 14 to April 19.
9. Did visitors buy souvenirs and local crafts?
   Yes, they did.
10. Did children study in school during the festival games?
    No, they didn’t. Children played games and competitions during the festival.
11. Did the festival have swimming competitions?
    No, it didn’t. There were traditional dances, music, and martial arts performances.
12. Were families and friends together at the festival?
    Yes, they were.
13. Did people play football during the festival?
    No, they didn’t. People played games like tug-of-war and other traditional competitions.
14. Were there food stalls at the market?
    Yes, there were.

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Form questions to which word/s given is/are the answer:

1. Char went to the festival with her family.
   a) Char:
   b) went to the festival:
   c)to the festival:
   d) with her family:
   
2. They visited a temple.
   a) They:
   b) visited a temple:
   c) a temple:
   
3. People gave food and gifts to monks.
   a) People:
   b) gave food and gifts to monks:
   c) food and gifts:
   d) to monks:
   
4. Children played tug-of-war at the festival.
   a) Children:
   b) played tug-of-war at the festival:
   c) tug-of-war:
   d) at the festival:
   
5. Char enjoyed Cambodian dishes at the market.
   a) Char:
   b) enjoyed Cambodian dishes at the market:
   c) Cambodian dishes:
   d) Cambodian:
   e) at the market:

_________________________

Correct answers:

1. Char went to the festival with her family.
a) Char – Who went to the festival with her family?
b) went to the festival – What did Char do?
c) to the festival – Where did Char go?
d) with her family – Who did Char go with to the festival?

2. They visited a temple.
a) They – Who visited a temple?
b) visited a temple – What did they do?
c) a temple – What did they visit?

3. People gave food and gifts to monks.
a) People – Who gave food and gifts to monks?
b) gave food and gifts to monks – What did people do?
c) food and gifts – What did they give to monks?
d) to monks – Who did they give food and gifts?

4. Children played tug-of-war at the festival.
a) Children – Who played tug-of-war at the festival?
b) played tug-of-war at the festival – What did children do?
c) tug-of-war – What did they play at the festival?
d) at the festival – Where did they play tug-of-war?

5. Char enjoyed Cambodian dishes at the market.
a) Char – Who enjoyed Cambodian dishes at the market?
b) enjoyed Cambodian dishes at the market – What did Char do?
c) Cambodian dishes – What did Char enjoy at the market?
d) Cambodian – What kind of dishes did she enjoy?
e) at the market – Where did she enjoy the dishes?

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Find answer to question:

Questions:

1. Who visited the festival last year?
2. Did you plan to return next year?
3. How did you spend time at the temple?
4. Where did you enjoy the performances?
5. Did your family make pictures during the festival?
6. When did you share food with monks?
7. Who tasted the food at the market?
8. Where did you go first on the first day?
9. Did you choose anything at the market?
10. What games did you see at the festival?
11. Was the festival exciting for you?
12. Were many people present at the festival?

Answers (shuffled)

A. I felt calm and happy.
B. We visited a temple first.
C. Yes, I bought souvenirs and local crafts.
D. I watched traditional dances and martial arts at the temple.
E. Yes, we took many photos.
F. Yes, I hope to go again next year.
G. I played tug-of-war and competitions.
H. I went to the festival last year.
I. Yes, I enjoyed the festival very much.
J. We gave food and gifts to the monks.
K. Many people joined the festival.
L. I tried Cambodian dishes.

_______________________

Correct dialogue:

1. Q: Who visited the festival last year?
   A: I went to the festival last year.
2. Q: What games did you see at the festival?
   A: I played tug-of-war and competitions.
3. Q: Where did you enjoy the performances?
   A: I watched traditional dances and martial arts at the temple.
4. Q: When did you share food with monks?
   A: We gave food and gifts to the monks.
5. Q: How did you spend time at the temple?
   A: I felt calm and happy.
6. Q: Did you choose anything at the market?
   A: Yes, I bought souvenirs and local crafts.
7. Q: Was the festival exciting for you?
   A: Yes, I enjoyed the festival very much.
8. Q: Who tasted the food at the market?
   A: I tried Cambodian dishes.
9. Q: Did your family make pictures during the festival?
   A: Yes, we took many photos.
10. Q: Where did you go first on the first day?
    A: We visited a temple first.
11. Q: Were many people present at the festival?
    A: Yes, many people joined the festival.
12. Q: Did you plan to return next year?
    A: Yes, I hope to go again next year.

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Fill in, words below:

prayed – crafts – traditional – enjoy –
dishes – competition – celebration –
activities – gifts –
family

Char went to the Nokor Sangkranta festival with her __________.
They visited a temple and gave food and _________ to the monks.
Char __________ for health and felt calm.
She watched __________ dances and martial arts.
She joined a tug-of-war __________.
Children and adults could join a game and enjoy many __________.
At the food stalls, they tried Cambodian __________ which were delicious.
Visitors also bought local __________as souvenirs.
The festival is an important __________ and a special tradition in Cambodia.
Everyone can __________ the colors, music, and happiness together.

———————————-
Correct version:
Char went to the Nokor Sangkranta festival with her family.
They visited a temple and gave food and gifts to the monks.
Char prayed for health and felt calm.
She watched traditional dances and martial arts.
She joined a tug-of-war competition.
Children and adults could join a game and enjoy many activities.
At the food stalls, they tried Cambodian dishes, which were delicious.
Visitors also bought local crafts as souvenirs.
The festival is an important celebration and a special tradition in Cambodia.
Everyone can enjoy the colors, music, and happiness together.

###############

In the morning, at 6:30am, Oum wakes up when her alarm rings. She quickly gets ready and has breakfast with her family. Then, she goes to school, walking with her friends.

At school, Oum attends classes like Khmer Literature, Math, English, and History. During breaks, she chats with her friends and eats snacks.

After school, Oum may do activities like dancing or playing volleyball. When she gets home, she relaxes, does homework, and spends time with her family.

In the evening, they have dinner together and talk about their day. After finishing any remaining homework, Oum gets ready for bed.

She brushes her teeth, changes into pajamas, and goes to sleep, ready for another day at school tomorrow.

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Vocabulary:

• to wake up → to stop sleeping
• to get ready → to prepare (put on clothes, wash, etc.)
• to attend classes → to go to lessons at school
• a break → a short rest time
• to chat → to talk in a friendly way
• to eat snacks → to eat small food between meals
• to do activities → to do things (like sports or games)
• to relax → to rest and feel calm
• to finish remaining homework → to complete the homework you still have
• to get ready for bed → to prepare to sleep
• to brush one’s teeth → to clean your teeth with a toothbrush
• to change into pajamas → to put on sleep clothes

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Matching exercise:

Words

1. to wake up
2. to get ready
3. to attend classes
4. a break
5. to chat
6. to eat snacks
7. to do activities
8. to relax
9. to finish remaining homework
10. to get ready for bed
11. to brush one’s teeth
12. to change into pajamas

Definitions

A. to clean your teeth with a toothbrush
B. to rest and feel calm
C. to go to lessons at school
D. to stop sleeping
E. to prepare to sleep
F. to eat small food between meals
G. to talk in a friendly way
H. to put on sleep clothes
I. to prepare (put on clothes, wash, etc.)
J. a short rest time
K. to do things like sports or games
L. to complete the homework you still have

_________________________

Answers

1-D, 2-I, 3-C, 4-J, 5-G, 6-F,
7-K, 8-B, 9-L, 10-E, 11-A, 12-H

________________________

Correct version:

to wake up – to stop sleeping
to get ready – to prepare (put on clothes, wash, etc.)
to attend classes – to go to lessons at school
a break – a short rest time
to chat – to talk in a friendly way
to eat snacks – to eat small food between meals
to do activities – to do things like sports or games
to relax – to rest and feel calm
to finish remaining homework – to complete the homework you still have
to get ready for bed – to prepare to sleep
to brush one’s teeth – to clean your teeth with a toothbrush
to change into pajamas – to put on sleep clothes

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Which words are we looking for?

to prepare to sleep: _____________
to talk in a friendly way: _____________
to do things like sports or games: _____________
to stop sleeping: _____________
to clean your teeth with a toothbrush: _____________
to go to lessons at school: _____________
to rest and feel calm: _____________
to put on sleep clothes: _____________
to eat small food between meals: _____________
to prepare (put on clothes, wash, etc.): _____________
a short rest time: _____________
to complete the homework you still have: _____________

_____________________

Correct matches:

to prepare to sleep: to get ready for bed
to talk in a friendly way: to chat
to do things like sports or games: to do activities
to stop sleeping: to wake up
to clean your teeth with a toothbrush: to brush one’s teeth
to go to lessons at school: to attend classes
to rest and feel calm: to relax
to put on sleep clothes: to change into pajamas
to eat small food between meals: to eat snacks
to prepare (put on clothes, wash, etc.): to get ready
a short rest time: a break
to complete the homework you still have: to finish remaining homework

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True or false:

1. Oum wakes up at 6:30am when her alarm rings.
2. Oum goes to school by bicycle.
3. At school, she attends classes like Khmer Literature, Math, English, and History.
4. Oum eats lunch at school with her family.
5. During breaks, she chats with friends and eats snacks.
6. After school, Oum always goes shopping with her friends.
7. Oum sometimes does dancing or plays volleyball after school.
8. When she gets home, she watches TV all evening.
9. In the evening, Oum has dinner with her family and they talk about their day.
10. Before bed, she brushes her teeth, she changes into pajamas, and goes to sleep.

_______________________

False: 2,4,6,8.

################

Here are 10 multiple choice questions based on the text. Each has 4 answer options, and more than one may be correct.

1. What time does Oum wake up?
A. 5:00am
B. 6:30am
C. 7:00am
D. 6:00am

2. What does Oum do after waking up?
A. She goes to school right away
B. She eats breakfast
C. She gets ready
D. She goes back to sleep

3. How does Oum go to school?
A. By bus
B. By bicycle
C. Walking with friends
D. In a car

4. What subjects does Oum study?
A. Science
B. Khmer literature
C. Math
D. History

5. What does Oum do during breaks?
A. Sleeps
B. Eats snacks
C. Plays video games
D. Chats with friends

6. What activities might Oum do after school?
A. Swimming
B. Dancing
C. Playing volleyball
D. Cooking dinner

7. What does Oum do when she gets home?
A. Does homework
B. Watches movies all night
C. Relaxes
D. Goes to sleep right away

8. What does Oum do with her family in the evening?
A. Has dinner
B. Plays games
C. Talks about their day
D. Goes shopping

9. What does Oum do before bed?
A. Brushes her teeth
B. Does exercise
C. Changes into pajamas
D. Eats dinner

10. When does Oum sleep?
A. In the morning
B. After doing homework
C. After dinner
D. At school

—————————————————-

Answers:
1b, 2bc, 3c, 4bcd, 5bd, 6bc,
7ac, 8ac, 9ad, 10bc

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Here are 10 question-style statements, what is correct?

1. Does she get up at 6:30 or 6:45?
   She gets _____________
2. Does she eat breakfast with her family or with her friends?
   She eats _____________
3. Does she walk to school or go by bicycle?
   She walks _____________
4. Does she study English or Chinese?
   She studies _____________
5. Does she chat with friends or study during breaks?
   She chats_____________
6. Does she eat snacks or full meals at school?
   She eats _____________
7. Does she go dancing or swimming after school?
   She goes_____________
8. Does she do homework or watch TV when she gets home?
   She does _____________
9. Does she have dinner alone or with her family?
   She has _____________
10. Does she brush her teeth before bed or in the morning only?
    She brushes_____________

———————————————————–

Correct version:

Does she get up at 6:30 or 6:45?
She gets up at 6:30

Does she eat breakfast with her family or with her friends?
She eats with her family

Does she walk to school or go by bicycle?
She walks to school

Does she study English or Chinese?
She studies English

Does she chat with friends or study during breaks?
She chats with friends

Does she eat snacks or full meals at school?
She eats snacks

Does she go dancing or swimming after school?
She goes dancing

Does she do homework or watch TV when she gets home?
She does homework

Does she have dinner alone or with her family?
She has dinner with her family

Does she brush her teeth before bed or in the morning only?
She brushes her teeth before bed

###########################

Complete the interview with Oum:

Interviewer: Hello, Oum! Can I ask you some questions about your day?
Oum: Yes, of course!

1. What time do you wake up in the morning?
Oum:

2. What do you do after you wake up?
Oum:

3. How do you go to school?
Oum:

4. What subjects do you study at school?
Oum:

5. What do you do during break time?
Oum:

6. Do you do any activities after school?
Oum:

7. What do you do when you get home?
Oum:

8. What do you do in the evening?
Oum:

9. Do you do homework at night too?
Oum:

10. What do you do before going to bed?
Oum:

———————————————-

Answers:

Interviewer: Hello, Oum! Can I ask you some questions about your day?
Oum: Yes, of course!

1.
Oum: I wake up at 6:30 in the morning.

2.
Oum: I get ready and eat breakfast with my family.

3.
Oum: I walk to school with my friends.

4.
Oum: I study Khmer literature, math, English, and history.

5.
Oum: I chat with my friends and eat snacks.

6.
Oum: Yes, sometimes I dance or play volleyball.

7.
Oum: I relax, do my homework, and spend time with my family.

8.
Oum: We eat dinner together and talk about our day.

9.
Oum: Yes, I finish any homework I still have.

10.
Oum: I brush my teeth, put on my pajamas, and go to sleep.

####################

If you want, describe your typical day, you can send the text to me via SMFrockZ@gmx.at, I’ll have a look at it, and then send it back with some info, comments, if necessary.

– my crazy St. Patrick’s Day in Southeast Asia

Last year, I celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in Southeast Asia. We celebrated it on March 17. It was a new and fun experience for me.

St. Patrick’s Day came from Ireland. It was about Saint Patrick. He lived a long time ago. He helped people and taught them about religion. People liked him very much. After he died, people celebrated his life every year on March 17.

I was in Bangkok at that time. The weather was very hot, but the city was busy and exciting. Many people went outside in the evening. Some bars and restaurants played Irish music and had special drinks.

I went out with my friends. We wore green shirts and hats. We walked in the street and saw many happy people. There was a small parade. People danced and smiled. Some people took photos together.

We sat in a small restaurant and ate food. We listened to music and talked. I felt relaxed and happy. It was interesting to celebrate this Irish holiday far from Ireland.

That day was special. I learned new things and enjoyed time with my friends. It was a great memory for me.

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Exercise 1
Listen to the story, then find out if a statement is true or false:

1. St. Patrick’s Day is on March 17.
2. The author was in Bangkok during the holiday.
3. People wear green clothes on St. Patrick’s Day.
4. Saint Patrick taught people a long time ago.
5. The author ate food with friends.
6. Saint Patrick is a famous singer.
7. The holiday is only celebrated in Ireland.
8. People danced and smiled during the parade.
9. The author felt relaxed and happy that day.
10. Bars and restaurants played Irish music.
11. The author wore a red shirt.
12. People remembered Saint Patrick after he died.
13. The city was busy and exciting.
14. The author went swimming during the holiday.
15. Friends took photos together.
16. The holiday is about having fun and learning history.
17. The parade was very big and long.
18. The author learned new things and enjoyed time with friends.
19. Saint Patrick helped people and taught religion.
20. The author stayed home alone during the holiday.

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Exercise 2

a) or b)?

1. Was he in (a) Southeast Asia or (b) East Asia?
2. Did he celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on (a) March 17 or (b) March 1?
3. Did he go to (a) Dublin or (b) Bangkok?
4. Did he wear (a) red clothes or (b) green clothes?
5. Did he eat food with (a) alone or (b) friends?
6. Was the parade (a) very big or (b) small?
7. Did people (a) dance and smile or (b) sit quietly?
8. Did bars and restaurants play (a) Irish music or (b) Chinese music?
9. Did he (a) go swimming or (b) see the parade?
10. Was Saint Patrick a (a) singer or (b) religious teacher?
11. Did Saint Patrick teach people (a) a long time ago or (b) yesterday?
12. Is St. Patrick’s Day celebrated (a) only in Ireland or (b) in many countries?
13. Did he feel (a) relaxed and happy or (b) tired and sad?
14. Did he take photos with (a) friends or (b) strangers?
15. Did people remember Saint Patrick (a) after he died or (b) before he died?
16. Is St. Patrick’s Day about (a) fun and history or (b) only studying?
17. Was the city (a) busy and exciting or (b) quiet and boring?
18. Did he (a) learn new things and enjoy time with friends or (b) stay at home?
19. Did Saint Patrick (a) play games or (b) help people and teach religion?
20. Did he (a) stay home alone or (b) go out with friends?

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Exercise 3

multiple choice, one answer correct

1. Where did he celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?
   (a) Southeast Asia
   (b) East Asia
   (c) South America
2. What day is St. Patrick’s Day?
   (a) March 17
   (b) March 1
   (c) April 17
3. Which city did he visit?
   (a) Dublin
   (b) Bangkok
   (c) Hanoi
4. What color clothes did he wear?
   (a) Red
   (b) Blue
   (c) Green
5. Who did he eat with?
   (a) Alone
   (b) Friends
   (c) Family
6. How was the parade?
   (a) Very big
   (b) Long
   (c) Small
7. What did people do in the parade?
   (a) Dance and smile
   (b) Sit quietly
   (c) Stand in line
8. What music did bars and restaurants play?
   (a) Irish
   (b) Chinese
   (c) Thai
9. Did he go swimming or see the parade?
   (a) Go swimming
   (b) Take a nap
   (c) Watch the parade
10. Who was Saint Patrick?
    (a) Singer
    (b) Teacher
    (c) Dancer
11. When did Saint Patrick teach people?
    (a) A long time ago
    (b) Last week
    (c) Yesterday
12. Where is St. Patrick’s Day celebrated?
    (a) Only in Ireland
    (b) In many countries
    (c) Only in Asia
13. How did he feel that day?
    (a) Relaxed and happy
    (b) Angry and tired
    (c) Sad and worried
14. Who did he take photos with?
    (a) Friends
    (b) Strangers
    (c) Family
15. When did people remember Saint Patrick?
    (a) Before he died
    (b) During the parade
    (c) After he died
16. What is St. Patrick’s Day about?
    (a) Only studying
    (b) Work and homework
    (c) Fun and history
17. How was the city?
    (a) Quiet and boring
    (b) Dark and empty
    (c) Busy and exciting
18. What did he do with friends?
    (a) Stay at home
    (b) Go out and enjoy
    (c) Watch TV

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✅ Green = regular verbs
🟧 Orange = irregular verbs

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Vocabulary:

to celebrate – to do something happy for a special day

a fun experience – something you do that is happy and nice

a long time ago – many years before now

to teach – to help someone learn something

to be busy – to do many things, not free

to be exciting – to make you feel happy and interested

to wear a shirt – to put a shirt on your body

to take photos – to make pictures with a camera or phone

to feel relaxed – to feel calm and not worried

from Ireland – something or someone comes from the country Ireland

to enjoy time with friends – to have happy moments with friends

memory – something you remember from the past

###################

Answers

Exercise 1

False: 2,6,7,11,14,17,20

1. St. Patrick’s Day is on March 17.
2. The author was in Dublin during the holiday. True is: The author was in Bangkok during the holiday.
3. People wear green clothes on St. Patrick’s Day.
4. Saint Patrick taught people a long time ago.
5. The author ate food with friends.
6. Saint Patrick is a famous singer. True is: Saint Patrick was a religious teacher, not a famous singer.
7. The holiday is only celebrated in Ireland. True is: The holiday is celebrated in many countries, not only in Ireland.
8. People danced and smiled during the parade.
9. The author felt relaxed and happy that day.
10. Bars and restaurants played Irish music.
11. The author wore a red shirt. True is: The author wore green clothes, not a red shirt.
12. People remembered Saint Patrick after he died.
13. The city was busy and exciting.
14. The author went swimming during the holiday. True is: The author went out with friends and saw a parade, not swimming.
15. Friends took photos together.
16. The holiday is about having fun and learning history.
17. The parade was very big and long. True is: The parade was small, not very big and long.
18. The author learned new things and enjoyed time with friends.
19. Saint Patrick helped people and taught religion.
20. The author stayed home alone during the holiday. True is: The author went out with friends, not stayed home alone.

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Exercise 2

a) or b)?

• a: 1, 2, 7, 8, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18
• b: 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 19, 20

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Exercise 3

1-a, 2-a, 3-b, 4-c, 5-b, 6-c,
7-a, 8-b, 9-c, 10-b, 11-a, 12-b,
13-a, 14-a, 15-c, 16-c, 17-c, 18-b

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• Kunthea talks about her work, her guests, and the busy and happy moments in the restaurant.

Listen to the story

My name is Kunthea. I am a young woman from Cambodia. I work as a waitress in the restaurant of a five-star hotel. I like my job, but some days are very busy.

My work day starts at 7 a.m. I put on my uniform and go to the restaurant. First, I check the tables. I clean them and put glasses and plates on the tables. Everything must look nice for the guests.

In the morning many guests come for breakfast. Some guests are very friendly. They smile and say “Good morning.” They say “thank you” when I bring their coffee or food. I like these moments because they make me happy.

When the restaurant is busy, I walk a lot. I carry plates and bring food and drinks to the tables. Sometimes many guests need help at the same time. One guest wants more coffee. Another guest asks for the bill. I must work fast.

Sometimes a guest is not happy. Maybe the food is cold or the order is wrong. I listen and say sorry. Then I talk to the kitchen and try to help the guest.

In the afternoon the restaurant is quiet. I clean the tables and talk with my colleagues.

At the end of the day I feel tired, but I feel proud because I work hard every day.

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A. Listen to the story again and answer:

1. A man who brings food and drinks in a restaurant is a __________.
2. A woman who brings food and drinks in a restaurant is a __________.
3. A flat dish for food is a __________.
4. To make something not dirty is to __________.
5. To show happiness with your face is to __________.
6. A paper that shows how much money you must pay is a __________.
7. A person who works with you is a __________.
8. To hold something and take it somewhere is to __________.
9. To have little energy and want to rest is to __________.
10. Very much or many times is __________.

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B. Listen to the story again and answer:
true or false:

1. A busy moment is a time when many things happen and there is a lot of work.
2. To put on a uniform means to wear your normal clothes at home.
3. To check the tables means to look at the tables to see if everything is ready.
4. To look nice means to look bad and dirty.
5. To be friendly means to be kind and nice to people.
6. To make somebody happy means to do something that makes a person feel bad.
7. Sometimes means not always, but at some times.
8. At the same time means together, in one moment.
9. A wrong order is food or drinks that are exactly what the guest asked for.
10. A kitchen is the place where people cook food in a restaurant or house.
11. To be quiet means to have little or no noise.
12. To feel proud means to feel happy because you did something well.

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C. Listen to the story again and answer:

Questions:

1. What is Kunthea’s job?
2. Where is the restaurant?
3. What time does her work day start?
4. What does she put on first in the morning?
5. What does she check when she arrives?
6. What does she put on the tables?
7. How are some guests in the morning?
8. What do guests say when she brings coffee or food?
9. What does Kunthea carry when the restaurant is busy?
10. What does a guest sometimes ask for?
11. Where does Kunthea go if the order is wrong?
12. How does she feel at the end of the day?

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ANSWERS

_______________

A. Listen to the story and answer

1. waiter
2. waitress
3. plate
4. clean
5. smile
6. bill
7. colleague
8. carry
9. feel tired
10. a lot

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B. True or false

False: 2,4,6,9

1. A busy moment is a time when many things happen and there is a lot of work.
2. To put on a uniform means to wear your normal clothes at home. True is: To put on a uniform means to wear special work clothes.
3. To check the tables means to look at the tables to see if everything is ready.
4. To look nice means to look bad and dirty. True is: To look nice means to look good and clean.
5. To be friendly means to be kind and nice to people.
6. To make somebody happy means to do something that makes a person feel bad. True is: To make somebody happy means to do something that makes a person feel good.
7. Sometimes means not always, but at some times.
8. At the same time means together, in one moment.
9. A wrong order is food or drinks that are exactly what the guest asked for. True is: A wrong order is food or drinks that are not what the guest asked for.
10. A kitchen is the place where people cook food in a restaurant or house.
11. To be quiet means to have little or no noise.
12. To feel proud means to feel happy because you did something well.

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C. Answers

1. What is Kunthea’s job? – waitress
2. Where is the restaurant? – Cambodia
3. What time does her work day start? – 7 a.m.
4. What does she put on first in the morning? – uniform
5. What does she check when she arrives? – tables
6. What does she put on the tables? – glasses, plates
7. How are some guests in the morning? – friendly
8. What do guests say when she brings coffee or food? – thank you
9. What does Kunthea carry when the restaurant is busy? – plates
10. What does a guest sometimes ask for? – coffee, bill
11. Where does Kunthea go if the order is wrong? – kitchen
12. How does she feel at the end of the day? – tired, proud

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Vocabulary:

• a waiter: a man who brings food and drinks to people in a restaurant
• a waitress: a woman who brings food and drinks to people in a restaurant
• a busy moment: a time when many things happen and there is a lot of work
• to put on a uniform: to wear special work clothes
• to check the tables: to look at the tables to see if everything is ready
• to clean: to make something not dirty
• a plate: a flat dish for food
• to look nice: to look good and clean
• to be friendly: to be kind and nice to people
• to smile: to show happiness with your face
• to make somebody happy: to do something that makes a person feel good
• a lot: very much / many times
• to carry something: to hold something and take it somewhere
• sometimes: not always, but at some times
• at the same time: together, in one moment
• a bill: a paper that shows how much money you must pay
• a wrong order: food or drinks that are not what the guest asked for
• a kitchen: the place where people cook food in a restaurant or house
• to be quiet: to have little or no noise
• a colleague: a person who works with you
• to feel tired: to have little energy and want to rest
• to feel proud: to feel happy because you did something well

• Helping people, learning skills, and speaking English along the way

WARNING: NOT EASY

My name is Ly, and I am 15 years old. I want to work at the front desk in the future because I like meeting new people and helping them. I enjoy talking to guests and making sure they have a good experience. I think it is very important to be friendly, polite, and organized in this job.

I know I need some qualifications to work at the front desk. First, I need good communication skills to speak clearly with guests and answer their questions. Second, I need basic computer skills to use booking systems and manage reservations. Some hotels or businesses also ask for a short course or certificate in customer service. To get these skills, I practice speaking politely with my teachers, friends, and family. I also learn computer programs and try online tutorials about hotel or booking systems.

English is very important for this job because many guests speak English. If I can speak English well, I can help more people and make them feel welcome. I study English at school and practice by reading, watching shows, and speaking with friends.

Working at the front desk is exciting because I can meet different people, use my skills, and learn new things every day. I hope I can do this job in the future.

_____________________________

Vocabulary:

• to enjoy – to like something or feel happy when you do it
• to make sure – to check or do something so it is correct or safe
• an experience – something you do or see that teaches you or gives you feelings
• to be polite – to say and do nice things to show respect to people
• to be organized – to keep things in order and plan well
• a qualification – a skill, course, or certificate that shows you can do a job
• communication skills – the ability to speak, listen, and write clearly to other people
• to manage reservations – to organize bookings or appointments for people
• a course – a class or program where you learn something
• a certificate – a paper that shows you finished a course or learned a skill
• customer service – helping and supporting people who buy or use something
• to speak politely – to use nice words and a good tone when talking to people
• a tutorial – a lesson or guide that teaches you how to do something
• to be exciting – to make you feel happy, interested, or full of energy

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Match the word with the correct definition.

Words:

1. to enjoy
2. to make sure
3. an experience
4. to be polite
5. to be organized
6. a qualification
7. communication skills
8. to manage reservations
9. a course
10. a certificate
11. customer service
12. to speak politely
13. a tutorial
14. to be exciting

Definitions:

A. a paper that shows you finished a course or learned a skill
B. helping and supporting people who buy or use something
C. something you do or see that teaches you or gives you feelings
D. to like something or feel happy when you do it
E. a lesson or guide that teaches you how to do something
F. the ability to speak, listen, and write clearly to other people
G. to organize bookings or appointments for people
H. to check or do something so it is correct or safe
I. to keep things in order and plan well
J. to say and do nice things to show respect to people
K. a class or program where you learn something
L. to use nice words and a good tone when talking to people
M. to make you feel happy, interested, or full of energy
N. a skill, course, or certificate that shows you can do a job

________________________

Answers:
1-D, 2-H, 3-C, 4-J, 5-I, 6-N, 7-F, 8-G,
9-K, 10-A, 11-B, 12-L, 13-E, 14-M
_______________________

Correct version:

• to enjoy – to like something or feel happy when you do it
• to make sure – to check or do something so it is correct or safe
• an experience – something you do or see that teaches you or gives you feelings
• to be polite – to say and do nice things to show respect to people
• to be organized – to keep things in order and plan well
• a qualification – a skill, course, or certificate that shows you can do a job
• communication skills – the ability to speak, listen, and write clearly to other people
• to manage reservations – to organize bookings or appointments for people
• a course – a class or program where you learn something
• a certificate – a paper that shows you finished a course or learned a skill
• customer service – helping and supporting people who buy or use something
• to speak politely – to use nice words and a good tone when talking to people
• a tutorial – a lesson or guide that teaches you how to do something
• to be exciting – to make you feel happy, interested, or full of energy

################

Comprehension questions

1. How old is Ly?
2. What job does Ly want in the future?
3. Why does Ly want to work at the front desk?
4. Name two qualities Ly thinks are important for front desk work.
5. What skills does Ly need to talk to guests?
6. What computer skill does Ly need for the job?
7. What kind of course or certificate might help Ly get the job?
8. Who does Ly practice speaking politely with?
9. How does Ly practice English outside school?
10. Why is English important for Ly’s job?
11. What does Ly enjoy about meeting new people?
12. What can Ly learn from working at the front desk?
13. What does Ly hope to do in the future?
14. Name one thing Ly uses to learn about hotel booking systems.
15. How does Ly try to be organized?

Vocabulary Questions

16. What does “to enjoy” mean in the text?
17. What does “to make sure” mean in the text?
18. What is “an experience” in the text?
19. What does “to be polite” mean in the text?
20. What is a “qualification” in the text?
21. What does “customer service” mean in the text?
22. What is a “certificate” in the text?
23. What does “to manage reservations” mean?
24. What is a “tutorial”?
25. What does “to be exciting” mean in the text?

________________________

Answers:

Comprehension Questions

1. How old is Ly? – 15 years old
2. What job does Ly want in the future? – To work at the front desk
3. Why does Ly want to work at the front desk? – Because he likes meeting new people and helping them
4. Name two qualities Ly thinks are important for front desk work. – Friendly, polite, organized (any two)
5. What skills does Ly need to talk to guests? – Good communication skills
6. What computer skill does Ly need for the job? – Basic computer skills to use booking systems
7. What kind of course or certificate might help Ly get the job? – A short course or certificate in customer service or hospitality
8. Who does Ly practice speaking politely with? – Teachers, friends, and family
9. How does Ly practice English outside school? – By reading, watching shows, and speaking with friends
10. Why is English important for Ly’s job? – Many guests speak English, and he wants to communicate effectively
11. What does Ly enjoy about meeting new people? – Helping them and making sure they have a good experience
12. What can Ly learn from working at the front desk? – New things about hospitality and customer service
13. What does Ly hope to do in the future? – Work at the front desk
14. Name one thing Ly uses to learn about hotel booking systems. – Online tutorials
15. How does Ly try to be organized? – By planning well and keeping things in order

Vocabulary Questions

16. What does “to enjoy” mean in the text? – To like something or feel happy when you do it
17. What does “to make sure” mean in the text? – To check or do something so it is correct or safe
18. What is “an experience” in the text? – Something you do or see that teaches you or gives you feelings
19. What does “to be polite” mean in the text? – To say and do nice things to show respect to people
20. What is a “qualification” in the text? – A skill, course, or certificate that shows you can do a job
21. What does “customer service” mean in the text? – Helping and supporting people who buy or use something
22. What is a “certificate”? – A paper that shows you finished a course or learned a skill
23. What does “to manage reservations” mean? – To organize bookings or appointments for people
24. What is a “tutorial”? – A lesson or guide that teaches you how to do something
25. What does “to be exciting” mean in the text? – To make you feel happy, interested, or full of energy

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Answer in complete sentences:

1. Is Ly 15 or 16 years old?
2. Does he want to work at the front desk or in a shop?
3. Does Ly like staying at home or meeting new people?
4. Is it important to be lazy or to be friendly for this job?
5. Is it important to be messy or to be organized?
6. Does Ly need communication skills or cooking skills for this job?
7. Does he need advanced computer skills or basic computer skills?
8. Can a short course or certificate help Ly or not help him?
9. Does Ly practice speaking politely with strangers or with teachers?
10. Does he study English at home only or at school?
11. Is English important because many guests speak it or because he likes watching shows?
12. Does Ly enjoy ignoring guests or helping guests?
13. Can he learn new things by working at the front desk or by sleeping?
14. Does he use books or online tutorials to learn about booking systems?
15. Is customer service about selling things or helping people?
16. Should you speak rudely or politely to guests?
17. Does Ly hope to work at the front desk now or in the future?
18. Is a certificate a test result or a paper that shows a skill?
19. Does “to enjoy” mean to dislike something or to like something?
20. Does “to make sure” mean to check something or to ignore something?

_______________________

Correct answers:

1. Is Ly 15 or 16 years old? – Ly is 15 years old.
2. Does he want to work at the front desk or in a shop? – He wants to work at the front desk.
3. Does Ly like staying at home or meeting new people? – Ly likes meeting new people.
4. Is it important to be lazy or to be friendly for this job? – It is important to be friendly.
5. Is it important to be messy or to be organized? – It is important to be organized.
6. Does Ly need communication skills or cooking skills for this job? – Ly needs communication skills.
7. Does he need advanced computer skills or basic computer skills? – He needs basic computer skills.
8. Can a short course or certificate help Ly or not help him? – A short course or certificate can help Ly.
9. Does Ly practice speaking politely with strangers or with teachers? – He practices speaking politely with teachers.
10. Does he study English at home only or at school? – He studies English at school.
11. Is English important because many guests speak it or because he likes watching shows? – English is important because many guests speak it.
12. Does Ly enjoy ignoring guests or helping guests? – Ly enjoys helping guests.
13. Can he learn new things by working at the front desk or by sleeping? – He can learn new things by working at the front desk.
14. Does he use books or online tutorials to learn about booking systems? – He uses online tutorials to learn about booking systems.
15. Is customer service about selling things or helping people? – Customer service is about helping people.
16. Should you speak rudely or politely to guests? – You should speak politely to guests.
17. Does Ly hope to work at the front desk now or in the future? – He hopes to work at the front desk in the future.
18. Is a certificate a test result or a paper that shows a skill? – A certificate is a paper that shows a skill.
19. Does “to enjoy” mean to dislike something or to like something? – “To enjoy” means to like something.
20. Does “to make sure” mean to check something or to ignore something? – “To make sure” means to check something.

#################

True or false:

1. Ly is 15 years old.
2. He wants to work in a shop.
3. Ly likes meeting new people.
4. Being polite is important for his job.
5. Ly needs cooking skills for the front desk.
6. He studies English at school.
7. Ly practices speaking politely only with friends.
8. A certificate is a test result.
9. Ly uses online tutorials to learn about booking systems.
10. Customer service is about helping guests.
11. Ly hopes to work at the front desk in the future.
12. He wants to ignore guests at work.
13. Being organized is unimportant for front desk work.
14. Ly enjoys staying at home more than helping guests.
15. He needs advanced computer skills for the job.
16. Ly learns about booking systems from magazines.
17. A short course or certificate can help him in his future job.
18. Ly wants to work at the restaurant.
19. Working at the front desk can help Ly learn new things.
20. English is important because many guests speak it.

__________________________

True: 1,3,4,6,9,10,11,17,19,20

__________________________

Correct version:

1. Ly is 15 years old.
2. He wants to work in a shop. True is: He wants to work at the front desk.
3. Ly likes meeting new people.
4. Being polite is important for his job.
5. Ly needs cooking skills for the front desk. True is: He needs communication and computer skills for the front desk.
6. He studies English at school.
7. Ly practices speaking politely only with friends. True is: He practices speaking politely with teachers and others.
8. A certificate is a test result. True is: A certificate shows that someone has finished a course or learned a skill.
9. Ly uses online tutorials to learn about booking systems.
10. Customer service is about helping guests.
11. Ly hopes to work at the front desk in the future.
12. He wants to ignore guests at work. True is: He wants to help guests at work.
13. Being organized is unimportant for front desk work. True is: Being organized is important for front desk work.
14. Ly enjoys staying at home more than helping guests. True is: Ly enjoys helping guests more than staying at home.
15. He needs advanced computer skills for the job. True is: He needs basic computer skills for the job.
16. Ly learns about booking systems from magazines. True is: Ly learns about booking systems from online tutorials.
17. A short course or certificate can help him in his future job.
18. Ly wants to work at the restaurant. True is: He wants to work at the front desk.
19. Working at the front desk can help Ly learn new things.
20. English is important because many guests speak it.

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Now Ly is retired and looks back at the time when he was 15 years old – interview:

1. Q: How old were you when you wanted to work at the front desk?
   A: I was 15 years old.
2. Q: Why did you want to work at the front desk?
   A: I liked meeting new people and helping them.
3. Q: What did you enjoy about this job?
   A: I enjoyed talking to guests.
4. Q: Who did you want to help at the front desk?
   A: I wanted to help the guests.
5. Q: What was important in this job?
   A: It was important to be friendly, polite, and organized.
6. Q: Which skills did you know you needed?
   A: I needed communication skills and computer skills.
7. Q: How did you speak with the guests?
   A: I spoke clearly and answered their questions.
8. Q: What did you use the computer for?
   A: I used it for booking systems and reservations.
9. Q: Where did you learn computer programs?
   A: I learned them at home and with online tutorials.
10. Q: When did you practice speaking politely?
    A: I practiced when I spoke with teachers, friends, and family.
11. Q: Why was English important for this job?
    A: Many guests spoke English.
12. Q: How did you practice English?
    A: I read, watched shows, and spoke with friends.
13. Q: Who did you speak English with?
    A: I spoke English with my friends.
14. Q: What did you do later when you worked at the front desk?
    A: I met many people, used my skills, and learned new things every day.

• a colorful Khmer New Year celebration in Phnom Penh filled with traditions, food, and fun

Nokor Sangkranta is a big festival in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It happens every year from April 14 to April 19. This festival is part of the Khmer New Year, called Chaul Chnam Thmey. It is a very important time for Cambodian people. They celebrate their culture, traditions, and family life.

During Nokor Sangkranta, many people go to temples. They pray for happiness, health, and good luck. They give food and gifts to monks and the poor. The temples are decorated with flowers and candles. People feel calm and happy when they visit the temples.

The festival also has many traditional activities. There are dances, music, and martial arts performances. Children and adults can play games like tug-of-war and traditional competitions. People enjoy watching shows and joining fun activities.

Markets are a big part of the festival. There are food stalls, drinks, and local crafts. Visitors can buy souvenirs and try Cambodian dishes. Some places have concerts and performances for entertainment.

Nokor Sangkranta is colorful and full of joy. It brings people together. Families, friends, and tourists can enjoy the festival. Everyone can learn about Cambodian culture and traditions. The festival is a special time to celebrate life, happiness, and togetherness.

_________________

Vocabulary:

• to be part of something – to belong to a group or activity
• to celebrate – to do something special because something good or important happens
• a tradition – something people do the same way for many years
• to pray – to speak to God
• health – when your body feels well and you are not sick
• good luck – when good things happen to you by chance
• a gift – something you give to someone to make them happy
• to decorate – to make something look nice with colors or objects
• a candle – a stick of wax that burns and gives light
• to feel calm – to feel relaxed and not worried
• martial arts – sports where people learn to fight in a controlled way (for example karate)
• a performance – when people sing, dance, or act for others to watch
• an adult – a person who is grown up
• tug-of-war – a game where two teams pull a rope in different directions
• a competition – a game or activity where people try to win
• to enjoy – to like something and have fun
• to join activities – to take part in games or events
• a food stall – a small place where people sell food outside
• a local craft – something made by hand in a place (for example pottery or woodwork)
• a dish – a prepared kind of food
• colorful – having many bright colors
• togetherness – when people feel close and happy together

#############

Match the words with the correct definitions.

Words:

1. to be part of something
2. to celebrate
3. a tradition
4. to pray
5. health
6. good luck
7. a gift
8. to decorate
9. a candle
10. to feel calm
11. martial arts
12. a performance
13. an adult
14. tug-of-war
15. a competition
16. to enjoy
17. to join activities
18. a food stall
19. a local craft
20. a dish
21. colorful
22. togetherness

Definitions:

A. a prepared kind of food
B. to like something and have fun
C. a game where two teams pull a rope in different directions
D. to belong to a group or activity
E. something you give to someone to make them happy
F. a small place where people sell food outside
G. when people feel close and happy together
H. sports where people learn to fight in a controlled way
I. when your body feels well and you are not sick
J. something made by hand in a place
K. a game or activity where people try to win
L. a person who is grown up
M. to take part in games or events
N. something people do the same way for many years
O. a stick of wax that burns and gives light
P. to do something special because something good happens
Q. to make something look nice with colors or objects
R. having many bright colors
S. when good things happen to you by chance
T. to speak to God
U. to feel relaxed and not worried
V. when people sing, dance, or act for others to watch

_________________

Answers:
1-D, 2-P, 3-N, 4-T, 5-I, 6-S, 7-E, 8-Q,
9-O, 10-U, 11-H, 12-V, 13-L, 14-C, 15-K,
16-B, 17-M, 18-F, 19-J, 20-A, 21-R, 22-G.

#############

Correct answers:

to be part of something – to belong to a group or activity
to celebrate – to do something special because something good or important happens
a tradition – something people do the same way for many years
to pray – to speak to God
health – when your body feels well and you are not sick
good luck – when good things happen to you by chance
a gift – something you give to someone to make them happy
to decorate – to make something look nice with colors or objects
a candle – a stick of wax that burns and gives light
to feel calm – to feel relaxed and not worried
martial arts – sports where people learn to fight in a controlled way
a performance – when people sing, dance, or act for others to watch
an adult – a person who is grown up
tug-of-war – a game where two teams pull a rope in different directions
a competition – a game or activity where people try to win
to enjoy – to like something and have fun
to join activities – to take part in games or events
a food stall – a small place where people sell food outside
a local craft – something made by hand in a place
a dish – a prepared kind of food
colorful – having many bright colors
togetherness – when people feel close and happy together

##################

True or false:

1. A food stall is a small place where people sell food outside.
2. Tug-of-war is a game where two teams pull a rope.
3. A candle is a tool people use to write on paper.
4. To celebrate means to do something special for an important event.
5. A tradition is something people do the same way for many years.
6. A dish is a kind of prepared food.
7. To decorate means to clean something very carefully.
8. Martial arts are sports where people learn controlled fighting.
9. A gift is something you give to make someone happy.
10. Togetherness means people feel close and happy together.
11. An adult is a very young child.
12. Colorful means having many bright colors.
13. To pray means to speak to God.
14. A competition is an activity where nobody tries to win.

________________________
True: 1,2,5,7,8,10,12,

________________________

Correct answers:

1. A food stall is a small place where people sell food outside.
2. Tug-of-war is a game where two teams pull a rope.
3. A candle is a tool people use to write on paper. True is: A candle is a stick of wax that burns and gives light.
4. To celebrate means to sleep for a long time. True is: To celebrate means to do something special for an important event.
5. A tradition is something people do the same way for many years.
6. A dish is something people wear on their head. True is: A dish is a kind of prepared food.
7. To decorate means to make something look nice with colors or objects.
8. Martial arts are sports where people learn controlled fighting.
9. A gift is something you take from someone without asking. True is: A gift is something you give to make someone happy.
10. Togetherness means people feel close and happy together.
11. An adult is a very young child. True is: An adult is a person who is grown up.
12. Colorful means having many bright colors.
13. To pray means to run very fast. True is: To pray means to speak to God.
14. A competition is an activity where nobody tries to win. True is: A competition is an activity where people try to win.

#################

True or false:

1. People join activities to have fun at the festival.
2. A candle is used to decorate the festival.
3. Everyone enjoys the colorful dishes at the food stalls.
4. Only adults can take part in martial arts performances.
5. People give gifts to feel togetherness.
6. Tug-of-war is a competition where two teams pull a rope.
7. Praying is a way to feel calm during the festival.
8. Local crafts are sold at the food stalls.
9. A performance can include dancing or singing.
10. Health is a gift people give to each other.
11. People decorate with colors to celebrate traditions.
12. Good luck is a type of food sold at stalls.
13. Children can be part of competitions at the festival.
14. Feeling calm is part of enjoying togetherness.

________________________
True: 1,2,6,9,11,13,14

________________________

Correct version:

People join activities to have fun at the festival

A candle is used to decorate the festival.

Everyone enjoys the colorful dishes at the food stalls. True is: Some people enjoy the dishes, but not everyone.

Only adults can take part in martial arts performances. True is: Both children and adults can take part in martial arts performances.

People give gifts to feel togetherness. True is: People give gifts to make someone happy.

Tug-of-war is a competition where two teams pull a rope.

Praying is a way to feel calm during the festival. True is: Praying is to speak to God, not necessarily part of the festival.

Local crafts are sold at the food stalls. True is: Local crafts are sold separately, not at the food stalls.

A performance can include dancing or singing.

Health is a gift people give to each other. True is: Health is when your body feels well and you are not sick.

People decorate with colors to celebrate traditions.

Good luck is a type of food sold at stalls. True is: Good luck is when good things happen to you by chance.

Children can be part of competitions at the festival.

Feeling calm is part of enjoying togetherness.

###################

Match the definitions with the correct words

Definitions:

A. To belong to a group or activity
B. To do something special because something good or important happens
C. Something people do the same way for many years
D. To speak to God
E. When your body feels well and you are not sick
F. When good things happen to you by chance
G. Something you give to someone to make them happy
H. To make something look nice with colors or objects
I. A stick of wax that burns and gives light
J. To like something and have fun
K. Sports where people learn to fight in a controlled way
L. When people sing, dance, or act for others to watch
M. A person who is grown up
N. A game where two teams pull a rope in opposite directions

Words:

1. a performance
2. a gift
3. health
4. a tradition
5. tug-of-war
6. a candle
7. martial arts
8. to celebrate
9. an adult
10. to feel calm
11. good luck
12. to be part of something
13. to decorate
14. to pray

___________________

Answers:
A-12, B-8, C-4, D-14, E-3, F-11, G-2,
H-13, I-6, J-10, K-7, L-1, M-9, N-5

___________________

A. To belong to a group or activity – to be part of something
B. To do something special because something good or important happens – to celebrate
C. Something people do the same way for many years – a tradition
D. To speak to God – to pray
E. When your body feels well and you are not sick – health
F. When good things happen to you by chance – good luck
G. Something you give to someone to make them happy – a gift
H. To make something look nice with colors or objects – to decorate
I. A stick of wax that burns and gives light – a candle
J. To like something and have fun – to feel calm
K. Sports where people learn to fight in a controlled way – martial arts
L. When people sing, dance, or act for others to watch – a performance
M. A person who is grown up – an adult
N. A game where two teams pull a rope in opposite directions – tug-of-war

______________________

Give short answers:

1. What do people give to make someone happy?
   
   YOU WRITE:
   a gift
   
2. Who can take part in martial arts at a festival?
3. What do people do on a special or important day?
4. What can people watch that includes singing or dancing?
5. How do people feel when they enjoy togetherness?
6. What is used to give light and decorate a room?
7. What do people do to participate?
8. What do people do to have fun at a festival?
9. How do people make a room look nice for a festival?
10. What is a game where two teams pull a rope?
11. What is something people do the same way for many years?
12. What happens when good things occur by chance?
13. What is when your body feels well and you are not sick?
14. What can people eat at a festival?

_____________________

Answers:

1. What do people give to make someone happy? – a gift
2. Who can take part in martial arts at a festival? – an adult
3. What do people do on a special or important day? – celebrate
4. What can people watch that includes singing or dancing? – a performance
5. How do people feel when they enjoy togetherness? – feel calm
6. What is used to give light and decorate a room? – a candle
7. What do people do to participate? – join activities
8. What do people do to have fun at a festival? – enjoy
9. How do people make a room look nice for a festival? – decorate
10. What is a game where two teams pull a rope? – tug-of-war
11. What is something people do the same way for many years? – a tradition
12. What happens when good things occur by chance? – good luck
13. What is when your body feels well and you are not sick? – health
14. What can people eat at a festival? – a dish

###################

Fill in, words below:

performed – fun – health – enjoys – gifts –
calm – togetherness – light – dancing –
pull – tradition – decorate –
activities – by chance

1. People join activities to have __________ at the festival.
2. A candle is used to give _________ and to decorate.
3. Everyone __________ the dishes at the festival.
4. Tug-of-war is a game where two teams __________ a rope.
5. People pray to feel __________ during the festival.
6. Martial arts can be __________ at the festival.
7. Adults can participate in __________ at the festival.
8. People give __________ to make someone happy.
9. A __________ is something people do the same way for many years.
10. Good luck can happen __________.
11. People __________ with colors to celebrate special days.
12. Feeling calm is part of enjoying _________.
13. A performance can include singing or __________.
14. __________ means when your body feels well and you are not sick.

——————————–

Correct statements:

1. People join activities to have fun at the festival.
2. A candle is used to give light and to decorate.
3. Everyone enjoys the dishes at the festival.
4. Tug-of-war is a game where two teams pull a rope.
5. People pray to feel calm during the festival.
6. Martial arts can be performed at the festival.
7. Adults can participate in activities at the festival.
8. People give gifts to make someone happy.
9. A tradition is something people do the same way for many years.
10. Good luck can happen by chance.
11. People decorate with colors to celebrate special days.
12. Feeling calm is part of enjoying togetherness.
13. A performance can include singing or dancing.
14. Health means when your body feels well and you are not sick.

##################

Complete the dialogue, find the answer:

Questions

1. Hello! Can you tell me about the festival?
2. What activities do you join at the festival?
3. Who participates in the festival?
4. When do people use gifts?
5. How do people stay calm during the festival?
6. Why do people decorate the festival area?
7. What food is available at the festival?
8. Who performs at the festival?
9. What games are played at the festival?
10. How do people celebrate traditions?
11. What brings people together at the festival?
12. What do you like most about the festival?

Answers:

A. I like watching a performance and seeing decorations.
B. Adults and children show a performance.
C. Togetherness makes everyone happy.
D. I celebrate the festival every year.
E. People follow a tradition and join activities.
F. People pray to feel calm and peaceful.
G. Adults and children join activities together.
H. People play tug-of-war and martial arts.
I. People present a gift on special days.
J. People try a dish at the food stalls.
K. They decorate with colors and a candle.
L. I take part in martial arts and games.

________________________
Answers:

1-D, 2-L, 3-G, 4-I, 5-F, 6-K,
7-J, 8-B, 9-H, 10-E, 11-C, 12-A

________________________

Correct dialogue:

Interviewer: Hello! Can you tell me about the festival?
Local: Yes! I celebrate the festival every year.

Interviewer: What activities do you join at the festival?
Local: I take part in martial arts and games.

Interviewer: Who participates in the festival?
Local: Adults and children join activities together.

Interviewer: When do people use gifts?
Local: People present a gift on special days.

Interviewer: How do people stay calm during the festival?
Local: People pray to feel calm and peaceful.

Interviewer: Why do people decorate the festival area?
Local: They decorate with colors and a candle.

Interviewer: What food is available at the festival?
Local: People try a dish at the food stalls.

Interviewer: Who performs at the festival?
Local: Adults and children show a performance.

Interviewer: What games are played at the festival?
Local: People play tug-of-war and martial arts.

Interviewer: How do people celebrate traditions?
Local: People follow a tradition and join activities.

Interviewer: What brings people together at the festival?
Local: Togetherness makes everyone happy.

Interviewer: What do you like most about the festival?
Local: I like watching a performance and seeing decorations.

#################

• what an experience

Before going through that story,
do this one first
(check out vocabulary!).

Last year, I went to Bali, and I saw Nyepi. It was very interesting. The day before Nyepi, the streets were busy. People made big statues. They called them ogoh‑ogoh. The statues looked like demons. At night, people walked with the statues and then they burned them. The fire was big, and the smoke was everywhere. It was very exciting.

On Nyepi day, everything was quiet. I stayed at home. I did not use lights, and I did not go outside. I did not work or watch TV. The streets were empty. Shops were closed. Even the airport did not have planes. I felt calm and peaceful. I prayed and thought about my life. I liked the silence.

The day after Nyepi was Ngembak Geni. Families went to each other’s houses. They said sorry for mistakes. I visited a family, and we smiled and talked. It was a happy day.

Nyepi is a very special holiday. I liked it a lot. I learned about Balinese culture. I think it is good to have one day for quiet and thinking. I will remember it forever.

#################

Basics in past simple:

Past Simple –

• Regular Verbs:
• Most verbs: add -ed
  play → played
• Verbs ending in -e: add -d
  live → lived
• Verbs ending in consonant + y: change y to i and add -ed
  study → studied
• Short verbs ending in vowel + consonant: double the final consonant and add -ed
  stop → stopped
• List of irregular verbs => LINK

Use:
The past simple is used to talk about finished actions in the past.

####################

Verbs in text:

####################

##################

Past simple forms of ‚to be‘:

##################

Short answers in past simple:

##################

Fill in the correct past simple tense:

1. Last year, I __________ (go) to Bali.
2. I __________ (see) Nyepi for the first time.
3. It __________ (be) very interesting.
4. The day before Nyepi, the streets __________ (be) busy.
5. People __________ (make) big statues called ogoh‑ogoh.
6. They __________ (call) them ogoh‑ogoh.
7. The statues __________ (look) like demons.
8. At night, people __________ (walk) with the statues.
9. Then they __________ (burn) the statues.
10. The fire __________ (be) big and the smoke __________ (be) everywhere.
11. On Nyepi day, everything __________ (be) quiet.
12. I __________ (stay) at home.
13. I __________ (not/use) lights and I __________ (not/go) outside.
14. I __________ (not/work) or __________ (watch) TV.
15. The streets __________ (be) empty.
16. I __________ (feel) calm and peaceful.
17. I __________ (pray) and __________ (think) about my life.
18. The day after Nyepi, families __________ (visit) each other.
19. I __________ (smile) and __________ (talk) with a family.
20. I __________ (learn) about Balinese culture and I __________ (remember) it forever.

——————————————
Correct Version:

1. Last year, I went to Bali.
2. I saw Nyepi for the first time.
3. It was very interesting.
4. The day before Nyepi, the streets were busy.
5. People made big statues called ogoh‑ogoh.
6. They called them ogoh‑ogoh.
7. The statues looked like demons.
8. At night, people walked with the statues.
9. Then they burned the statues.
10. The fire was big and the smoke was everywhere.
11. On Nyepi day, everything was quiet.
12. I stayed at home.
13. I did not use lights and I did not go outside.
14. I did not work or watch TV.
15. The streets were empty.
16. I felt calm and peaceful.
17. I prayed and thought about my life.
18. The day after Nyepi, families visited each other.
19. I smiled and talked with a family.
20. I learned about Balinese culture and I remembered it forever.

##################

True or false:

1. Nyepi was a day when people stayed at home.
2. People traveled a lot on Nyepi day.
3. Ogoh‑ogoh were big statues made before Nyepi.
4. The airport worked normally on Nyepi.
5. People prayed and thought about life on Nyepi.
6. Families visited each other the day before Nyepi.
7. The streets were quiet and empty on Nyepi.
8. Oum went to Bali last year and saw Nyepi.
9. Nyepi happened in December every year.
10. People used bright lights and watched TV on Nyepi.
11. The fire and smoke were part of burning ogoh‑ogoh statues.
12. The day after Nyepi was called Ngembak Geni.
13. Shops and streets were busy on Nyepi.
14. Nyepi was a holiday for shopping and parties.

_________________________

True: 1,3,5,7,8,11,12
_________________________

Correct version:

1. Nyepi was a day when people stayed at home.
2. People traveled a lot on Nyepi day. True is: People did not travel on Nyepi day.
3. Ogoh‑ogoh were big statues made before Nyepi.
4. The airport worked normally on Nyepi. True is: The airport did not operate on Nyepi.
5. People prayed and thought about life on Nyepi.
6. Families visited each other the day before Nyepi. True is: Families visited each other the day after Nyepi.
7. The streets were quiet and empty on Nyepi.
8. Oum went to Bali last year and saw Nyepi.
9. Nyepi happened in December every year. True is: Nyepi usually happened in March.
10. People used bright lights and watched TV on Nyepi. True is: People did not use bright lights or watch TV on Nyepi.
11. The fire and smoke were part of burning ogoh‑ogoh statues.
12. The day after Nyepi was called Ngembak Geni.
13. Shops and streets were busy on Nyepi. True is: Shops and streets were empty on Nyepi.
14. Nyepi was a holiday for shopping and parties. True is: Nyepi was a holiday for quiet and thinking.

##################

Give a short answer and then the corrected statement:

1. People walked outside all day on Nyepi.
   
   YOU WRITE:
   No, they didn’t. People stayed at home.
   
2. Oum saw many shops open on Nyepi.
3. Families talked and visited each other before Nyepi.
4. People made small statues for Nyepi.
5. People burned nothing at night before Nyepi.
6. The streets carried many cars and planes on Nyepi.
7. Oum went to see bright lights and TV on Nyepi.
8. People prayed and thought nothing on Nyepi.
9. Oum smiled and talked before Nyepi started.
10. People worked and used lights during Nyepi.
11. Families visited other families before Ngembak Geni.
12. People walked with nothing at night.
13. Oum learned nothing about Balinese culture.
14. The streets were full of people on Nyepi.
15. Nyepi was a holiday for parties and shopping.

_________________________

Correct version:

1. People walked outside all day on Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. People stayed at home.
2. Oum saw many shops open on Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. Shops were closed.
3. Families talked and visited each other before Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. Families visited each other the day after Nyepi.
4. People made small statues for Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. People made big statues called ogoh‑ogoh.
5. People burned nothing at night before Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. People burned the ogoh‑ogoh statues at night.
6. The streets carried many cars and planes on Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. The streets were empty and quiet on Nyepi.
7. Oum went to see bright lights and TV on Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. People stayed at home and did not use bright lights or watch TV.
8. People prayed and thought nothing on Nyepi.
   No, they didn’t. People prayed and thought about life on Nyepi.
9. Oum smiled and talked before Nyepi started.
   No, they didn’t. Oum smiled and talked after Nyepi.
10. People worked and used lights during Nyepi.
    No, they didn’t. People stayed at home and did not work on Nyepi.
11. Families visited other families before Ngembak Geni.
    No, they didn’t. Families visited each other the day after Nyepi.
12. People walked with nothing at night.
    No, they didn’t. People walked with the ogoh‑ogoh statues at night.
13. Oum learned nothing about Balinese culture.
    No, they didn’t. Oum learned about Balinese culture.
14. The streets were full of people on Nyepi.
    No, they weren’t. The streets were quiet on Nyepi.
15. Nyepi was a holiday for parties and shopping.
    No, it wasn’t. Nyepi was a holiday for quiet and thinking.

##################

Form questions to which the word/words given is/are the answer:

1. People made big statues the day before Nyepi.
   
   a) People:___________________
   b) made big statues the day before Nyepi:___________________
   c) big statues:___________________
   d) the day before Nyepi:___________________
   
2. Oum went to Bali last year.
   
   a) Oum:___________________
   b) went to Bali last year:___________________
   c) to Bali:___________________
   d) last year:___________________
   
3. Families visited each other the day after Nyepi.
   
   a) Families:___________________
   b) visited each other the day after Nyepi:___________________
   c) each other:___________________
   d) the day after Nyepi
   
4. People stayed at home on Nyepi day.
   
   a) People:___________________
   b) stayed at home om Nyepi day:___________________
   c) at home:___________________
   d) on Nyepi day:___________________
   
5. Oum learned about Balinese culture after Nyepi.
   
   a) Oum:___________________
   b) learned about Balinese culture after Nyepi:___________________
   c) Balinese culture:___________________
   d) after Nyepi:___________________

——————————————
Correct version:

1. People made big statues the day before Nyepi.
a) Who made big statues the day before Nyepi?
b) What did people do the day before Nyepi?
c) What did people make the day before Nyepi?
d) When did people make big statues?

2. Oum went to Bali last year.
a) Who went to Bali last year?
b) What did Oum do last year?
c) Where did Oum go last year?
d) When did Oum go to Bali?

3. Families visited each other the day after Nyepi.
a) Who visited each other the day after Nyepi?
b) What did families do the day after Nyepi?
c) Whom did families visit the day after Nyepi?
d) When did families visit each other?

4. People stayed at home on Nyepi day.
a) Who stayed at home on Nyepi day?
b) What did people do on Nyepi day?
c) Where did people stay on Nyepi day?
d) When did people stay at home?

5. Oum learned about Balinese culture after Nyepi.
a) Who learned about Balinese culture after Nyepi?
b) What did Oum do after Nyepi?
c) What did Oum learn about after Nyepi?
d) When did Oum learn about Balinese culture?

##################

Answer in complete sentences:

1. What did Oum see in Bali?
2. When did people burn the ogoh‑ogoh statues?
3. How did Oum feel on Nyepi day?
4. Who visited families on Ngembak Geni?
5. Why did people make ogoh‑ogoh?
6. Did the streets have many people on Nyepi?
7. Where did Oum stay on Nyepi day?
8. Which activities did Oum not do on Nyepi?
9. How big was the fire during the ogoh‑ogoh celebration?
10. Did the airport work on Nyepi?
11. What did families say to each other on Ngembak Geni?
12. How did Oum describe the day after Nyepi?
13. Did Oum like the holiday?
14. Why is Nyepi a special holiday?

_________________________
Answers:

1. What did Oum see in Bali?
   • She saw Nyepi.
2. When did people burn the ogoh‑ogoh statues?
   • They burned them at night.
3. How did Oum feel on Nyepi day?
   • She felt calm.
4. Who visited families on Ngembak Geni?
   • Families visited each other.
5. Why did people make ogoh‑ogoh?
   • To show bad spirits.
6. Did the streets have many people on Nyepi?
   • No, they were empty.
7. Where did Oum stay on Nyepi day?
   • She stayed at home.
8. Which activities did Oum not do on Nyepi?
   • She did not go outside or watch TV.
9. How big was the fire during the ogoh‑ogoh celebration?
   • It was big.
10. Did the airport work on Nyepi?
    • No, it did not.
11. What did families say to each other on Ngembak Geni?
    • They said sorry.
12. How did Oum describe the day after Nyepi?
    • She said it was happy.
13. Did Oum like the holiday?
    • Yes, she did.
14. Why is Nyepi a special holiday?
    • It is for quiet and thinking.

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