Autor: wolfgang kugler

  • 🫵 🏝️ World Environment Day (June 5) – some thoughts (use less plastic and create less waste, reading comprehension, sound files, B1, part 3/9 🏝️🫵

    Tourism creates a lot of plastic waste, like bottles and packaging.

    What businesses can do:

    • Stop using small plastic shampoo bottles
    • Use refillable soap and shampoo containers
    • Give guests water refill stations
    • Avoid plastic straws and cutlery
    • Recycle paper, glass, and plastic

    Example:
    Accor works to remove single-use plastic in many of its hotels. Guests often see refill bottles instead of small plastic ones.

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

    Tourism creates a lot of plastic waste, like bottles, bags, and food packaging. This is bad for the environment. Hotels and other businesses should try to reduce plastic waste in simple ways.

    First, hotels should stop using small plastic bottles for shampoo and soap. They can use big refillable bottles instead. This reduces a lot of plastic every day.

    Second, hotels can give guests water refill stations. Guests can refill their bottles and do not need to buy new plastic bottles. This helps reduce waste.

    Hotels should also stop using plastic straws, cups, and forks. They can use paper or reusable materials instead. These items create a lot of waste because they are used only one time.

    Another important step is recycling. Hotels should recycle paper, glass, and plastic correctly. This helps keep waste out of landfills.

    An example is Accor. This company is working to reduce single-use plastic in many hotels. Guests often see refillable bottles instead of small plastic ones.

    If more hotels do these actions, tourism will create less plastic waste and less pollution.

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

    True or false:

    1. Tourism creates plastic waste like bottles and bags.
    2. Hotels should use many small plastic bottles for shampoo.
    3. Refillable bottles can help reduce plastic waste.
    4. Water refill stations help guests reuse bottles.
    5. Plastic straws and forks should be kept in hotels.
    6. Recycling paper, glass, and plastic is important.
    7. Accor is trying to reduce single-use plastic.
    8. Tourism does not create plastic waste.
    9. Guests can refill their water bottles in hotels.
    10. Hotels should only use plastic items to save money.
    11. Using big refillable shampoo bottles reduces waste.
    12. Plastic cups and straws are used only one time.
    13. Recycling helps reduce waste in landfills.
    14. Hotels do not need to care about plastic waste.
    15. More hotels can help reduce pollution by using less plastic.

    _____________________

    True:1,3,4,6,7,9,11,12,13,15
    _____________________

    1. Tourism creates plastic waste like bottles and bags.
    2. Hotels should use many small plastic bottles for shampoo. True is: Hotels should not use small plastic bottles for shampoo. They should use big refillable bottles instead.
    3. Refillable bottles can help reduce plastic waste.
    4. Water refill stations help guests reuse bottles.
    5. Plastic straws and forks should be kept in hotels. True is: Hotels should not use plastic straws and forks. They should use reusable or paper ones instead.
    6. Recycling paper, glass, and plastic is important.
    7. Accor is trying to reduce single-use plastic.
    8. Tourism does not create plastic waste. True is: Tourism creates a lot of plastic waste like bottles, bags, and packaging.
    9. Guests can refill their water bottles in hotels.
    10. Hotels should only use plastic items to save money. True is: Hotels should avoid plastic items and try to use reusable or recyclable materials.
    11. Using big refillable shampoo bottles reduces waste.
    12. Plastic cups and straws are used only one time.
    13. Recycling helps reduce waste in landfills.
    14. Hotels do not need to care about plastic waste. True is: Hotels should care about plastic waste and try to reduce it.
    15. More hotels can help reduce pollution by using less plastic.

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

    Match the words with the correct definitions:

    Words:

    1. Tourism
    2. Plastic
    3. Waste
    4. Bottle
    5. Bag
    6. Packaging
    7. Hotel
    8. Guest
    9. Refillable
    10. Reuse
    11. Recycle
    12. Reduce
    13. Pollution
    14. Environment
    15. Station

    Definitions:

    A. A place where people stay when they travel
    B. To use something again
    C. The natural world around us
    D. Things that are thrown away
    E. A place where people can get water or other services
    F. Travel for holidays or business
    G. To make something smaller or less
    H. A person who stays in a hotel
    I. Dirty air, water, or land
    J. A container for carrying things
    K. Something that can be filled again
    L. A material used to make many products
    M. A container for liquids
    N. Material used to wrap products
    O. To change waste into new materials


    _____________________

    Answers:

    1-F, 2-L, 3-D, 4-M, 5-J, 6-N,
    7-A, 8-H, 9-K, 10-B, 11-O,
    12-G, 13-I, 14-C, 15-E

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


    Find evidence in the text (matching exercise)

    Statements:

    1. Tourism creates plastic waste.
    2. Hotels use a lot of electricity.
    3. Plastic waste can harm the environment.
    4. Hotels should stop using small plastic bottles.
    5. Refillable containers reduce plastic waste.
    6. Water refill stations help guests.
    7. Plastic straws and forks should not be used.
    8. Recycling helps reduce waste.
    9. Hotels should reduce energy use.
    10. Solar panels help use clean energy.
    11. Big hotel groups try to reduce plastic.
    12. Guests can reuse water bottles.
    13. Tourism can cause pollution.
    14. Hotels should take simple actions.
    15. Cleaner energy helps the environment.

    Evidence:

    A. “Hotels use a lot of electricity every day.”
    B. “Hotels should recycle paper, glass, and plastic correctly.”
    C. “Tourism creates a lot of plastic waste, like bottles, bags, and food packaging.”
    D. “Hotels should stop using small plastic bottles for shampoo and soap.”
    E. “Guests can refill their bottles and do not need to buy new plastic bottles.”
    F. “Hotels should also stop using plastic straws, cups, and forks.”
    G. “This can create pollution and harm the environment.”
    H. “They can use big refillable containers instead.”
    I. “Hotels can give guests water refill stations.”
    J. “If many hotels follow these steps, they can help protect the environment and save natural resources for the future.”
    K. “Hotels can also install solar panels on roofs.”
    L. “Big hotel groups like Accor are working to remove single-use plastic in many of their hotels.”
    M. “Hotels and other businesses should try to reduce plastic waste in simple ways.”
    N. “Hotels should try to reduce energy use.”
    O. “Solar panels provide clean energy from the sun.”


    ____________________

    Answers:
    1-C, 2-A, 3-G, 4-D, 5-H, 6-I,
    7-F, 8-B, 9-N, 10-K, 11-L,
    12-E, 13-G, 14-M, 15-O
    ###############

    Multiple choice, one answer is correct:

    Questions:

    1. What does tourism create?
      A. Plastic waste like bottles and bags
      B. Only clean air in cities
      C. No waste from travel
    2. Why do hotels need energy?
      A. Only for decoration
      B. For lights, kitchens, laundry, and air conditioning
      C. Only for swimming pools
    3. What problem can plastic waste cause?
      A. It can harm the environment
      B. It helps nature grow
      C. It makes water cleaner
    4. What should hotels stop using?
      A. Metal containers for storage
      B. Small plastic bottles for shampoo
      C. Glass bottles for drinks
    5. What do refillable containers do?
      A. They reduce plastic waste
      B. They increase plastic use
      C. They stop cleaning work
    6. What is the use of water refill stations?
      A. Guests can buy plastic bottles
      B. Guests can refill their bottles
      C. Guests can throw bottles away
    7. What should hotels avoid?
      A. Paper cups and straws
      B. Plastic straws and forks
      C. Wooden spoons and plates
    8. What do hotels recycle?
      A. Only furniture
      B. Paper, glass, and plastic
      C. Food and drinks only
    9. What should hotels try to reduce?
      A. Number of rooms
      B. Energy use
      C. Hotel staff
    10. What is an example of clean energy?
      A. Diesel generators
      B. Burning waste
      C. Solar panels
    11. What are big hotel groups doing?
      A. Increasing plastic use
      B. Removing single-use plastic
      C. Ignoring environmental problems
    12. What can guests do in hotels?
      A. Use more plastic cups
      B. Buy more plastic bottles
      C. Refill their water bottles
    13. What can tourism create?
      A. No changes in cities
      B. Pollution in the environment
      C. Only clean water
    14. What should hotels do?
      A. Stop all services
      B. Reduce plastic waste
      C. Increase plastic use
    15. What helps protect the environment?
      A. Throwing away bottles quickly
      B. Using more plastic items
      C. Using less plastic waste

    ___________________
    Answers:
    1-A, 2-B, 3-A, 4-B, 5-A, 6-B,
    7-B, 8-B, 9-B, 10-C, 11-B,
    12-C, 13-B, 14-B, 15-C
    ##############

    Answer in complete sentences:


    What does tourism create?

    What do hotels use for lights and air conditioning?

    What can plastic waste do to the environment?

    What should hotels stop using for shampoo?

    What do hotels use instead of small plastic bottles?

    What do refillable containers help reduce?

    What can guests do at water refill stations?

    Name two plastic items hotels should avoid.

    What should hotels recycle?

    Why is recycling important?

    What energy source can hotels install on roofs?

    What do big hotel groups try to reduce?

    What do guests use in hotels for drinking water?

    What happens if hotels reduce plastic waste?

    What should hotels try to use less of?

    _____________________

    Answers:

    1. What does tourism create? – Tourism creates a lot of plastic waste, like bottles, bags, and food packaging.
    2. What do hotels use for lights and air conditioning? – Hotels use electricity for lights, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry.
    3. What can plastic waste do to the environment? – Plastic waste can create pollution and harm the environment.
    4. What should hotels stop using for shampoo? – Hotels should stop using small plastic bottles for shampoo and soap.
    5. What do hotels use instead of small plastic bottles? – Hotels use big refillable containers instead of small plastic bottles.
    6. What do refillable containers help reduce? – Refillable containers help reduce plastic waste.
    7. What can guests do at water refill stations? – Guests can refill their bottles and do not need to buy new plastic bottles.
    8. Name two plastic items hotels should avoid. – Hotels should avoid plastic straws, cups, and forks.
    9. What should hotels recycle? – Hotels should recycle paper, glass, and plastic.
    10. Why is recycling important? – Recycling helps reduce waste and protect the environment.
    11. What energy source can hotels install on roofs? – Hotels can install solar panels on roofs.
    12. What do big hotel groups try to reduce? – Big hotel groups try to reduce single-use plastic.
    13. What do guests use in hotels for drinking water? – Guests use refillable bottles for drinking water.
    14. What happens if hotels reduce plastic waste? – If hotels reduce plastic waste, there will be less pollution and a cleaner environment.
    15. What should hotels try to use less of? – Hotels should try to use less plastic and less energy.

  • 🫵🏝️World Environment Day (June 5) – some thoughts (save energy and reduce pollution, text, reading comprehension, sound files, B1, part 2/9)🏝️🫵


    Hotels use electricity for lights, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry.

    What businesses can do:

    • Use LED lights instead of old bulbs
    • Turn off lights in empty rooms
    • Use air conditioning only when needed
    • Install solar panels if possible
    • Buy electricity from clean energy sources

    Example:
    Big hotel groups like Hilton Worldwide try to reduce energy use in rooms and public areas. They also set goals to cut carbon emissions over time.

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

    Hotels use a lot of electricity every day. They need power for lights, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry. This can create pollution and harm the environment. Because of this, hotels should try to use less energy and choose cleaner energy.

    There are many simple ways hotels can save energy. First, they can use LED lights instead of old bulbs. LED lights use less electricity and last longer. Second, hotels can turn off lights in rooms when they are empty. This is an easy way to avoid waste. Third, air conditioning should be used only when it is needed. Guests and staff can also set it to a normal temperature instead of very cold settings.

    Hotels can also install solar panels on roofs. Solar panels use energy from the sun, which is clean and free. Another good step is to buy electricity from clean energy sources like wind or water power. This helps reduce pollution from fossil fuels.

    Big hotel groups like Hilton Worldwide already try to save energy in many of their hotels. They use energy-saving systems and set goals to reduce carbon emissions each year. This shows that even large companies can make positive changes.

    If many hotels follow these steps, they can help protect the environment and save natural resources for the future.

    #################
    True or false:

    1. Hotels use electricity for lighting, kitchens, and laundry.
    2. LED lights use more electricity than old bulbs.
    3. Air conditioning should be used only when needed.
    4. Solar panels produce energy from the sun.
    5. Fossil fuels are clean energy sources.
    6. Turning off empty-room lights helps save energy.
    7. Wind and water power are examples of clean energy.
    8. Hotels should try to reduce energy use.
    9. Solar energy is described as harmful and expensive.
    10. Large hotel companies can reduce carbon emissions.
    11. Air conditioning should always be set to very cold.
    12. Saving energy can help protect the environment.
    13. Hotels only use electricity for lighting.
    14. Solar panels can be installed on hotel roofs.
    15. Energy waste can be reduced by simple actions.

    _______________________

    Answers:
    1-T, 2-F, 3-T, 4-T, 5-F, 6-T,
    7-T, 8-T, 9-F, 10-T, 11-F,
    12-T, 13-F, 14-T, 15-T

    _______________________

    Correct version:

    Hotels use electricity for lighting, kitchens, and laundry.

    LED lights use more electricity than old bulbs. True is: LED lights use less electricity than old bulbs.

    Air conditioning should be used only when needed.

    Solar panels produce energy from the sun.

    Fossil fuels are clean energy sources. True is: Fossil fuels are not clean energy sources.

    Turning off empty-room lights helps save energy.

    Wind and water power are examples of clean energy.

    Hotels should try to reduce energy use.

    Solar energy is described as harmful and expensive. True is: Solar energy is described as clean and free.

    Large hotel companies can reduce carbon emissions.

    Air conditioning should always be set to very cold. True is: Air conditioning should be used at a normal temperature and only when needed.

    Saving energy can help protect the environment.

    Hotels only use electricity for lighting. True is: Hotels use electricity for lighting, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry.

    Solar panels can be installed on hotel roofs.

    Energy waste can be reduced by simple actions.

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

    Match word and meaning:

    Words

    1. Pollution
    2. Resource
    3. Solar energy
    4. Emissions
    5. Fossil fuels
    6. Electricity
    7. Environment
    8. Renewable
    9. Carbon
    10. System
    11. Energy
    12. Reduce
    13. Install
    14. Temperature
    15. Maintain

    Meanings

    A. Energy from the sun
    B. Something useful that people need
    C. Power used to operate machines and lights
    D. Damage to air, water, or land
    E. Coal, oil, and natural gas
    F. Gases released into the atmosphere
    G. The natural world around us
    H. Able to be replaced naturally over time
    I. A chemical element found in fuels and air
    J. A group of connected parts working together
    K. The ability to do work or produce power
    L. To make something smaller or less
    M. To put equipment into use or place
    N. A measurement of how hot or cold something is
    O. To keep something in good condition or working order


    ____________________
    Answers:
    1-D, 2-B, 3-A, 4-F, 5-E, 6-C,
    7-G, 8-H, 9-I, 10-J, 11-K,
    12-L, 13-M, 14-N, 15-O

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

    Find evidence in the text (matching exercise)

    Statements

    1. Solar energy is clean and comes from a natural source.
    2. Air conditioning should only be used when necessary.
    3. Hotels use electricity for many different daily operations.
    4. Large companies can take action to reduce environmental damage.
    5. Turning off lights is a simple way to reduce energy use.
    6. LED lights are more efficient than old bulbs.
    7. Hotels should try to use less energy whenever possible.
    8. Wind and water power are examples of clean energy.
    9. Empty hotel rooms should not waste electricity.
    10. Hotels can help protect natural resources for the future.
    11. Solar panels can help hotels produce their own electricity.
    12. Hilton Worldwide uses systems that save energy in hotels.
    13. High energy use can harm the environment.
    14. Hotels use a lot of electricity every day.
    15. Companies can set yearly goals to reduce carbon emissions.

    Evidence (A–O)

    A. “Hotels use a lot of electricity every day.”
    B. “This can create pollution and harm the environment.”
    C. “Even large companies can make positive changes.”
    D. “LED lights use less electricity and last longer.”
    E. “They can turn off lights in rooms when they are empty.”
    F. “They use energy-saving systems and set goals to reduce carbon emissions each year.”
    G. “Clean energy sources like wind or water power.”
    H. “Hotels can help protect the environment and save natural resources for the future.”
    I. “Solar panels use energy from the sun, which is clean and free.”
    J. “They need power for lights, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry.”
    K. “Air conditioning should be used only when it is needed.”
    L. “Hotels should try to use less energy and choose cleaner energy.”
    M. “Hotels can install solar panels on roofs.”
    N. “Turning off lights in rooms when they are empty.”
    O. “Set goals to reduce carbon emissions each year.”


    _________________

    Answers:

    1-I, 2-K, 3-J, 4-C, 5-N, 6-D,
    7-L, 8-G, 9-E, 10-H, 11-M,
    12-F, 13-B, 14-A, 15-O

    ________________________

    Full version:

    1. Solar energy is clean and comes from a natural source
      Evidence: “Solar panels use energy from the sun, which is clean and free.”
    2. Air conditioning should only be used when necessary
      Evidence: “Air conditioning should be used only when it is needed.”
    3. Hotels use electricity for many different daily operations
      Evidence: “They need power for lights, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry.”
    4. Large companies can take action to reduce environmental damage
      Evidence: “Even large companies can make positive changes.”
    5. Turning off lights is a simple way to reduce energy use
      Evidence: “They can turn off lights in rooms when they are empty.”
    6. LED lights are more efficient than old bulbs
      Evidence: “LED lights use less electricity and last longer.”
    7. Hotels should try to use less energy whenever possible
      Evidence: “Hotels should try to use less energy and choose cleaner energy.”
    8. Wind and water power are examples of clean energy
      Evidence: “Clean energy sources like wind or water power.”
    9. Empty hotel rooms should not waste electricity
      Evidence: “They can turn off lights in rooms when they are empty.”
    10. Hotels can help protect natural resources for the future
      Evidence: “They can help protect the environment and save natural resources for the future.”
    11. Solar panels can help hotels produce their own electricity
      Evidence: “Hotels can install solar panels on roofs.”
    12. Hilton Worldwide uses systems that save energy in hotels
      Evidence: “They use energy-saving systems and set goals to reduce carbon emissions each year.”
    13. High energy use can harm the environment
      Evidence: “This can create pollution and harm the environment.”
    14. Hotels use a lot of electricity every day
      Evidence: “Hotels use a lot of electricity every day.”
    15. Companies can set yearly goals to reduce carbon emissions
      Evidence: “Set goals to reduce carbon emissions each year.”

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

    Multiple choice, one answer is correct:

    1. Why do hotels use a lot of electricity?

    A. To build new facilities, parking areas, and gardens
    B. To power lights, cooling systems, kitchens, and laundry
    C. To transport visitors, employees, and hotel supplies

    2. What problem can high energy use create?

    A. It can increase pollution and harm the environment
    B. It can reduce room sizes and guest satisfaction
    C. It can limit food choices and hotel services

    3. What does the text suggest hotels should do?

    A. Use more electricity during busy travel periods
    B. Replace workers with automated energy systems
    C. Choose cleaner energy and reduce energy waste

    4. Why are LED lights recommended?

    A. They provide colorful lighting for special events
    B. They require daily replacement by hotel staff
    C. They use less electricity and last much longer

    5. What should happen to lights in empty rooms?

    A. They should remain on to welcome new guests
    B. They should be turned off to save electricity
    C. They should be checked daily by maintenance teams

    6. How should air conditioning be used?

    A. It should remain active throughout every season
    B. It should operate only when it is necessary
    C. It should always run at the lowest temperature

    7. What temperature setting is recommended?

    A. A very cold temperature throughout the entire day
    B. A different temperature in every hotel room
    C. A normal temperature rather than a very cold one

    8. Where can hotels install solar panels?

    A. Inside hotel kitchens near cooking equipment
    B. On hotel roofs where they can receive sunlight
    C. Under hotel floors where they stay protected

    9. What is an advantage of solar energy?

    A. It is generated from imported fuel supplies
    B. It is produced mainly by large power stations
    C. It is clean, renewable, and available from sunlight

    10. Which clean energy sources are mentioned?

    A. Oil power and diesel power are mentioned
    B. Wind power and water power are mentioned
    C. Coal power and gas power are mentioned

    11. Why is clean energy important?

    A. It helps increase demand for fossil fuels
    B. It helps reduce pollution from fossil fuels
    C. It helps create larger hotel buildings worldwide

    12. What hotel company is used as an example?

    A. Hyatt Hotels is mentioned as an example
    B. Hilton Worldwide is mentioned as an example
    C. Marriott International is mentioned as an example

    13. What does Hilton Worldwide do to save energy?

    A. It limits guest access to electrical equipment
    B. It uses energy-saving systems in many hotels
    C. It closes hotel facilities during busy seasons

    14. What goal does Hilton Worldwide set each year?

    A. To expand hotel operations into new countries
    B. To increase room prices across all locations
    C. To reduce carbon emissions through planned actions

    15. What could happen if many hotels follow these ideas?

    A. They could eliminate the need for all electricity
    B. They could help protect resources for the future
    C. They could replace all traditional energy sources

    _________________

    Answer key:
    1-B, 2-A, 3-C, 4-C, 5-B, 6-B,
    7-C, 8-B, 9-C, 10-B, 11-B,
    12-B, 13-B, 14-C, 15-B

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

    Answer in one or two complete sentences.

    1. What environmental problem can be caused by high electricity use in hotels?
    2. Name two ways hotels can save energy.
    3. Why is turning off lights in empty rooms important?
    4. What are solar panels?
    5. How can buying electricity from clean energy sources help the environment?
    6. What example does the text give of a company taking action to save energy?
    7. What could happen if many hotels follow the suggestions in the text?
    8. Why do hotels use a lot of electricity every day?
    9. What is one benefit of LED lights?
    10. When should air conditioning be used in hotels?
    11. What energy source do solar panels use?
    12. What is one way hotels reduce wasted electricity?
    13. Name one example of clean energy mentioned in the text.
    14. What do energy-saving systems help hotels do?
    15. What is the main goal of saving energy in hotels?

    _________________________

    Answers:

    1. What environmental problem can be caused by high electricity use in hotels? — It can create pollution and harm the environment.
    2. Name two ways hotels can save energy. — They can use LED lights and turn off lights in empty rooms.
    3. Why is turning off lights in empty rooms important? — To avoid wasting electricity.
    4. What are solar panels? — Devices that use energy from the sun to produce electricity.
    5. How can buying electricity from clean energy sources help the environment? — It reduces pollution from fossil fuels.
    6. What example does the text give of a company taking action to save energy? — Hilton Worldwide.
    7. What could happen if many hotels follow the suggestions in the text? — They can help protect the environment and save natural resources.
    8. Why do hotels use a lot of electricity every day? — Because they need power for lights, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry.
    9. What is one benefit of LED lights? — They use less electricity and last longer.
    10. When should air conditioning be used in hotels? — Only when it is needed.
    11. What energy source do solar panels use? — The sun.
    12. What is one way hotels reduce wasted electricity? — Turning off lights in empty rooms.
    13. Name one example of clean energy mentioned in the text. — Wind power or water power.
    14. What do energy-saving systems help hotels do? — Reduce energy use and carbon emissions.
    15. What is the main goal of saving energy in hotels? — To protect the environment and save natural resources.

  • 🫵🏝️World Environment Day (June 5)- some thoughts (text, sound files, B1, part 1/9)🏝️🫵

    World Environment Day (June 5) is a good moment for tourism and hospitality businesses to help the planet. Hotels, travel companies, and restaurants use a lot of energy, water, and materials. Small changes can make a big difference when many guests are involved.


    1. Save energy and reduce pollution

    Hotels use electricity for lights, air conditioning, kitchens, and laundry.

    What businesses can do:

    • Use LED lights instead of old bulbs
    • Turn off lights in empty rooms
    • Use air conditioning only when needed
    • Install solar panels if possible
    • Buy electricity from clean energy sources

    Example:
    Big hotel groups like Hilton Worldwide try to reduce energy use in rooms and public areas. They also set goals to cut carbon emissions over time.


    2. Use less plastic and create less waste

    Tourism creates a lot of plastic waste, like bottles and packaging.

    What businesses can do:

    • Stop using small plastic shampoo bottles
    • Use refillable soap and shampoo containers
    • Give guests water refill stations
    • Avoid plastic straws and cutlery
    • Recycle paper, glass, and plastic

    Example:
    Accor works to remove single-use plastic in many of its hotels. Guests often see refill bottles instead of small plastic ones.


    3. Save water

    Hotels use a lot of water for showers, laundry, cleaning, and gardens.

    What businesses can do:

    • Put signs to ask guests to reuse towels
    • Use low-water toilets and showers
    • Fix water leaks quickly
    • Use plants that need less water
    • Reuse water for gardens if possible

    This is very important in places where water is limited.


    4. Buy local food and products

    Transporting food from far away creates pollution.

    What businesses can do:

    • Buy food from local farms
    • Use seasonal fruits and vegetables
    • Offer more plant-based meals
    • Reduce food waste in kitchens

    Example:
    Many hotels working with Marriott International try to buy more local food. This helps farmers nearby and reduces transport pollution.


    5. Protect nature and animals

    Tourism can harm nature if it is not controlled. But it can also help protect it.

    What businesses can do:

    • Do not disturb animals in natural areas
    • Limit the number of visitors in sensitive places
    • Support beach cleaning or forest projects
    • Teach tourists how to behave in nature

    Example:
    Some travel programs work with UNEP to protect oceans, forests, and animals.


    6. Help guests behave in a green way

    Guests can also help protect the environment.

    What businesses can do:

    • Ask guests to reuse towels and bed sheets
    • Give rewards for eco-friendly choices
    • Offer bike rentals or public transport tips
    • Show simple signs about saving energy and water

    When guests understand what to do, they often help.


    7. Measure and improve

    Businesses should check their impact on the environment.

    What they can do:

    • Track energy and water use
    • Count waste and recycling levels
    • Set simple yearly goals
    • Write reports about improvements

    Groups like UN Tourism encourage tourism companies to measure and reduce their impact.


    8. Use World Environment Day in a real way

    June 5 should not only be marketing. It should lead to real action.

    Ideas:

    • Start a recycling program on that day
    • Plant trees with staff and guests
    • Stop single-use plastics from that date
    • Teach staff simple eco rules
    • Launch a “green stay” option for guests

    Short summary

    Tourism and hospitality can help the environment by:

    • using less energy
    • saving water
    • reducing plastic waste
    • buying local food
    • protecting nature
    • teaching guests good habits

    Even small steps help a lot when many hotels and travel companies do them together.

  • 🥳🤩🧚The Pekalongan balloon festival (text, exercises, sound files, past simple, A2)🧚🤩🥳

    • preserve tradition, protect the sky, protect the city

    Hello, my name is Wulandari. I am a young girl from Pekalongan, Central Java.
    In 2026, after Idul Fitri (Idul Fitri is a special day for Muslims) on 21 March, I went to a big and beautiful event called the Pekalongan (city in central Java) Balloon Festival.
    The festival happened during Syawalan (Syawalan is a celebration one week after Idul Fitri), about one week after Lebaran (Muslim holiday).
    People made big hot air balloons from paper and plastic. The balloons had many bright colours. Some looked like animals, flowers, or batik patterns.
    Around 79 teams joined the event. They flew the balloons at Stadion Hoegeng.
    In the past, people released the balloons freely without ropes. This was dangerous because the balloons could hit planes or power lines.
    But in 2026, the government made a safe festival. They tied all the balloons with strong ropes. This is called “balon tambat (a balloon tied with ropes so it cannot fly away)”. Everyone enjoyed the show safely.
    On the festival day, I went to the stadium with my family. Many people came. Families, children, and old people watched together. The sky became full of colourful balloons. It looked very beautiful. There was music, food, and many places to take photos. People felt happy and proud of our culture.
    The festival was very important for us. It kept our old tradition alive in a safe way. Young people like me learned how to make balloons from our parents.
    Many visitors came from other cities.
    I liked this festival very much. When I saw the balloons go up into the sky, I felt excited and happy. It showed our creativity and togetherness. The theme this year was “Jaga Tradisi, Jaga Langit, Jaga Kota” (Preserve Tradition, Protect the Sky, Protect the City).

    It was one of the best events in my city.


    Vocabulary:

    • an event: a special occasion when people meet or do something together
    • a balloon: a light rubber object you fill with air or gas so it floats or becomes round
    • a bright colour: a strong, clear colour that is easy to see (like red, yellow, or blue)
    • a batik pattern: a traditional cloth design made with wax and dye
    • to join an event: to take part in an event with other people
    • to fly a balloon: to make a balloon go up into the air
    • to release: to let something go free
    • a rope: a long, thick string used to tie or pull things
    • to hit a plane: to touch or crash into an airplane (usually dangerous)
    • a power line: wires that carry electricity
    • to be safe: to be free from danger
    • to tie something: to use a string or rope to hold something together
    • to enjoy the show: to have fun watching a performance or event
    • to be proud of one’s culture: to feel happy and positive about your traditions and way of life
    • to keep a tradition alive: to continue doing customs from the past
    • to feel excited: to feel very happy and energetic about something
    • to show creativity: to make or do something in a new and imaginative way
    • togetherness: the feeling of being close and united with others
    • to preserve: to keep something safe so it does not change or get lost
    • to protect: to keep someone or something safe from harm

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

    Verbs and their past tense forms (regular, irregular):

    InfinitivePast SimpleA1 Definition
    bewas / wereexist; be in a state
    gowentmove from one place to another
    happenhappenedtake place
    makemadecreate or produce
    havehadown or possess something
    looklookedseem or appear
    joinjoinedbecome part of a group
    flyflewmove through the air
    releasereleasedlet something go
    hithitstrike with force
    cancouldbe able to
    tietiedfasten with a rope
    callcalledgive a name to something
    enjoyenjoyedget pleasure from something
    comecamemove to a place
    watchwatchedlook at something for a time
    becomebecamechange into something
    feelfeltexperience an emotion
    keepkeptcontinue to have or maintain
    learnlearnedget knowledge or skill
    likelikedenjoy something
    seesawuse your eyes
    showshowedmake something visible
    preservepreservedkeep something safe or unchanged
    protectprotectedkeep safe from harm

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

    Match the words with the correct definitions

    Words

    1. an event
    2. a balloon
    3. a bright colour
    4. a batik pattern
    5. to join an event
    6. to fly a balloon
    7. to release
    8. a rope
    9. to hit a plane
    10. a power line
    11. to be safe
    12. to tie something
    13. to enjoy the show
    14. to be proud of one’s culture
    15. to keep a tradition alive
    16. to feel excited
    17. to show creativity
    18. togetherness
    19. to preserve
    20. to protect


    Definitions

    A. to feel very happy and energetic about something
    B. a long, thick string used to tie or pull things
    C. a traditional cloth design made with wax and dye
    D. to take part in an event with other people
    E. to keep something safe so it does not change or get lost
    F. a special occasion when people meet or do something together
    G. to have fun watching a performance or event
    H. to let something go free
    I. to feel happy and positive about your traditions and way of life
    J. to keep someone or something safe from harm
    K. wires that carry electricity
    L. a light rubber object you fill with air or gas
    M. to make or do something in a new and imaginative way
    N. to make a balloon go up into the air
    O. to be free from danger
    P. to continue doing customs from the past
    Q. to use a string or rope to hold something together
    R. to touch or crash into an airplane (usually dangerous)
    S. a strong, clear colour that is easy to see
    T. the feeling of being close and united with others


    ______________________
    Answers:

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

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


    Match the definitions with the correct words:

    Definitions

    1. to keep someone or something safe from harm
    2. a light rubber object you fill with air or gas
    3. a strong, clear colour that is easy to see
    4. to take part in an event with other people
    5. a long, thick string used to tie or pull things
    6. a traditional cloth design made with wax and dye
    7. to feel very happy and energetic about something
    8. to let something go free
    9. to make or do something in a new and imaginative way
    10. to be free from danger
    11. to make a balloon go up into the air
    12. a special occasion when people meet or do something together
    13. wires that carry electricity
    14. to touch or crash into an airplane (usually dangerous)
    15. to have fun watching a performance or event
    16. to continue doing customs from the past
    17. to feel happy and positive about your traditions and way of life
    18. the feeling of being close and united with others
    19. to use a string or rope to hold something together
    20. to keep something safe so it does not change or get lost

    Words

    A. to fly a balloon
    B. togetherness
    C. a rope
    D. to preserve
    E. to enjoy the show
    F. to be safe
    G. to protect
    H. to join an event
    I. a balloon
    J. to show creativity
    K. an event
    L. to keep a tradition alive
    M. to feel excited
    N. to release
    O. to hit a plane
    P. a batik pattern
    Q. a power line
    R. to tie something
    S. to be proud of one’s culture
    T. a bright colour


    ______________________
    Answers:

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

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

    True or false:

    1. A rope is a digital tool used to control music during cultural shows.
    2. A balloon is a light thing filled with air or gas.
    3. To join an event means to watch the festival from home without going outside.
    4. A batik pattern is a traditional design on cloth.
    5. To release means to collect all festival items and lock them in storage.
    6. A power line carries electricity to houses.
    7. Togetherness means people stay alone and do activities without others.
    8. An event is a time when people meet and do activities.
    9. To preserve means to keep something safe for the future.
    10. A power line is a type of cloth used to decorate batik clothes at festivals.
    11. A balloon is a heavy metal object used to build festival stages in cities.
    12. To be safe means to not be in danger.
    13. A rope is a long string used to tie things.
    14. To release means to let something go free.
    15. A batik pattern is a machine used to clean the stadium after events.
    16. An event is a small private room used only for storing festival food supplies.
    17. To join an event means to take part in it.
    18. Togetherness means people are happy and united.
    19. To be safe means to increase danger during balloon flights at the stadium.
    20. To preserve means to change traditions quickly into new modern sports.

    _____________________

    True: 2,4,6,8,9,12,13,14,16,17

    _____________________

    Correct version:

    1. A rope is a digital tool used to control music during cultural shows. True is: A rope is a long string used to tie things.
    2. A balloon is a light thing filled with air or gas.
    3. To join an event means to watch the festival from home without going outside. True is: To join an event means to take part in it.
    4. A batik pattern is a traditional design on cloth.
    5. To release means to collect all festival items and lock them in storage. True is: To release means to let something go free.
    6. A power line carries electricity to houses.
    7. Togetherness means people stay alone and do activities without others. True is: Togetherness means people are happy and united.
    8. An event is a time when people meet and do activities.
    9. To preserve means to keep something safe for the future.
    10. A power line is a type of cloth used to decorate batik clothes at festivals. True is: A power line carries electricity to houses.
    11. A balloon is a heavy metal object used to build festival stages in cities. True is: A balloon is a light thing filled with air or gas.
    12. To be safe means to not be in danger.
    13. A rope is a long string used to tie things.
    14. To release means to let something go free.
    15. A batik pattern is a machine used to clean the stadium after events. True is: A batik pattern is a traditional design on cloth.
    16. An event is a small private room used only for storing festival food supplies. True is: An event is a time when people meet and do activities.
    17. To join an event means to take part in it.
    18. Togetherness means people are happy and united.
    19. To be safe means to increase danger during balloon flights at the stadium. True is: To be safe means to not be in danger.
    20. To preserve means to change traditions quickly into new modern sports. True is: To preserve means to keep something safe for the future.

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

    Short answers, past simple, basics:

    Example SentenceYesNo
    I learned letters.Yes, I did.No, I didn’t.
    You read signs.Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    He spoke English.Yes, he did.No, he didn’t.
    She watched TV.Yes, she did.No, she didn’t.
    It helped me.Yes, it did.No, it didn’t.
    We used an app.Yes, we did.No, we didn’t.
    You read words.Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    They made mistakes.Yes, they did.No, they didn’t.

    Questions (Past Simple)

    QuestionYesNo
    Did I learn letters?Yes, I did.No, I didn’t.
    Did you read signs?Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    Did he speak English?Yes, he did.No, he didn’t.
    Did she watch TV?Yes, she did.No, she didn’t.
    Did it help me?Yes, it did.No, it didn’t.
    Did we use an app?Yes, we did.No, we didn’t.
    Did you read words?Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    Did they make mistakes?Yes, they did.No, they didn’t.

    Was / Were

    QuestionYesNo
    Was I happy?Yes, I was.No, I wasn’t.
    Were you happy?Yes, you were.No, you weren’t.
    Was he happy?Yes, he was.No, he wasn’t.
    Was she happy?Yes, she was.No, she wasn’t.
    Was it good?Yes, it was.No, it wasn’t.
    Were we happy?Yes, we were.No, we weren’t.
    Were you happy?Yes, you were.No, you weren’t.
    Were they happy?Yes, they were.No, they weren’t.

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

    Short answers wanted:

    1. Did Wulandari go to the balloon festival?

      YOU WRITE:
      Yes, she did.

    2. Was the festival in Jakarta?
    3. Did people use ropes to hold the balloons?
    4. Were the balloons made only from metal?
    5. Did the festival happen after Idul Fitri?
    6. Did the government make the festival safer in 2026?
    7. Was the sky empty during the festival?
    8. Were there about 79 teams in the event?
    9. Did families watch the festival together?
    10. Did the festival have music and food?
    11. Did the balloons fly freely without ropes in 2026?
    12. Was the stadium called Jakarta Stadium?
    13. Did visitors come from other cities?
    14. Were there only 10 teams in the festival?
    15. Did young people learn to make balloons?
    16. Was the festival not important for culture?
    17. Did people feel happy at the festival?
    18. Was the theme about ignoring traditions?
    19. Did the balloons look like animals and flowers?
    20. Was the festival dangerous in 2026?

    ______________________

    Answers:


    Did Wulandari go to the balloon festival? — Yes, she did.

    Was the festival in Jakarta? — No, it wasn’t.

    Did people use ropes to hold the balloons? — Yes, they did.

    Were the balloons made only from metal? — No, they weren’t.

    Did the festival happen after Idul Fitri? — Yes, it did.

    Did the government make the festival safer in 2026? — Yes, it did.

    Was the sky empty during the festival? — No, it wasn’t.

    Were there about 79 teams in the event? — Yes, there were.

    Did families watch the festival together? — Yes, they did.

    Did the festival have music and food? — Yes, it did.

    Did the balloons fly freely without ropes in 2026? — No, they didn’t.

    Was the stadium called Jakarta Stadium? — No, it wasn’t.

    Did visitors come from other cities? — Yes, they did.

    Were there only 10 teams in the festival? — No, there weren’t.

    Did young people learn to make balloons? — Yes, they did.

    Was the festival not important for culture? — No, it wasn’t.

    Did people feel happy at the festival? — Yes, they did.

    Was the theme about ignoring traditions? — No, it wasn’t.

    Did the balloons look like animals and flowers? — Yes, they did.

    Was the festival dangerous in 2026? — No, it wasn’t.

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

    Basics in past simple:

    Personal PronounVerb (Past)Object
    Iateapples
    Youateapples
    Heateapples
    Sheateapples
    Itateapples
    Weateapples
    You (plural)ateapples
    Theyateapples
    Iplayedfootball
    Youplayedfootball
    Heplayedfootball
    Sheplayedfootball
    Itplayedfootball
    Weplayedfootball
    You (plural)playedfootball
    Theyplayedfootball
    Personal PronounVerb (Past Negative)Object
    Idid not eatapples
    Youdid not eatapples
    Hedid not eatapples
    Shedid not eatapples
    Itdid not eatapples
    Wedid not eatapples
    You (plural)did not eatapples
    Theydid not eatapples
    Idid not playfootball
    Youdid not playfootball
    Hedid not playfootball
    Shedid not playfootball
    Itdid not playfootball
    Wedid not playfootball
    You (plural)did not playfootball
    Theydid not playfootball
    Did + PronounVerbObject
    Did Ieatapples?
    Did youeatapples?
    Did heeatapples?
    Did sheeatapples?
    Did iteatapples?
    Did weeatapples?
    Did youeatapples?
    Did theyeatapples?
    Did Iplayfootball?
    Did youplayfootball?
    Did heplayfootball?
    Did sheplayfootball?
    Did itplayfootball?
    Did weplayfootball?
    Did youplayfootball?
    Did theyplayfootball?
    Didn’t + PronounVerbObject
    Didn’t Ieatapples?
    Didn’t youeatapples?
    Didn’t heeatapples?
    Didn’t sheeatapples?
    Didn’t iteatapples?
    Didn’t weeatapples?
    Didn’t youeatapples?
    Didn’t theyeatapples?
    Didn’t Iplayfootball?
    Didn’t youplayfootball?
    Didn’t heplayfootball?
    Didn’t sheplayfootball?
    Didn’t itplayfootball?
    Didn’t weplayfootball?
    Didn’t youplayfootball?
    Didn’t theyplayfootball?

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

    Past simple forms of ‚to be‘:

    PersonPast
    Iwas
    Youwere
    He/She/Itwas
    Wewere
    You (pl)were
    Theywere
    PersonQuestion
    IWas I …?
    YouWere you …?
    He/She/ItWas he/she/it …?
    WeWere we …?
    You (pl)Were you …?
    TheyWere they …?
    PersonNegative
    II was not (I wasn’t)
    YouYou were not (You weren’t)
    He/She/ItHe/She/It was not (He/She/It wasn’t)
    WeWe were not (We weren’t)
    You (pl)You were not (You weren’t)
    TheyThey were not (They weren’t)
    PersonNegative Question
    IWasn’t I …?
    YouWeren’t you …?
    He/She/ItWasn’t he/she/it …?
    WeWeren’t we …?
    You (pl)Weren’t you …?
    TheyWeren’t they …?


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

    Answers as shown:
    a) negation
    b) question
    c) negative question

    1. Wulandari went to the balloon festival.

      YOU WRITE:
      a) Wulandari did not go to the balloon festilva.
      b) Did Wulanari go to the balloon festival?
      c) Didn’t Wulanari go to the balloon festival?

    2. The festival was in Jakarta.
    3. People used ropes to hold the balloons.
    4. The balloons were made only from metal.
    5. The festival happened after Idul Fitri.
    6. The government made the festival safer in 2026.
    7. The sky was empty during the festival.
    8. There were about 79 teams in the event.
    9. Families watched the festival together.
    10. The festival had music and food.
    11. The balloons flew freely without ropes in 2026.
    12. The stadium was called Jakarta Stadium.
    13. Visitors came from other cities.
    14. There were only 10 teams in the festival.
    15. Young people learned to make balloons.
    16. The festival was important for culture.
    17. The festival showed creativity and togetherness.
    18. People felt happy at the festival.
    19. The balloons looked like animals and flowers.
    20. The festival was dangerous in 2026.

    ___________________________

    Correct version:


    1. Wulandari went to the balloon festival.
      a) Wulandari did not go to the balloon festival.
      b) Did Wulandari go to the balloon festival?
      c) Didn’t Wulandari go to the balloon festival?
    2. The festival was in Jakarta.
      a) The festival was not in Jakarta.
      b) Was the festival in Jakarta?
      c) Wasn’t the festival in Jakarta?
    3. People used ropes to hold the balloons.
      a) People did not use ropes to hold the balloons.
      b) Did people use ropes to hold the balloons?
      c) Didn’t people use ropes to hold the balloons?
    4. The balloons were made only from metal.
      a) The balloons were not made only from metal.
      b) Were the balloons made only from metal?
      c) Weren’t the balloons made only from metal?
    5. The festival happened after Idul Fitri.
      a) The festival did not happen after Idul Fitri.
      b) Did the festival happen after Idul Fitri?
      c) Didn’t the festival happen after Idul Fitri?
    6. The government made the festival safer in 2026.
      a) The government did not make the festival safer in 2026.
      b) Did the government make the festival safer in 2026?
      c) Didn’t the government make the festival safer in 2026?
    7. The sky was empty during the festival.
      a) The sky was not empty during the festival.
      b) Was the sky empty during the festival?
      c) Wasn’t the sky empty during the festival?
    8. There were about 79 teams in the event.
      a) There were not about 79 teams in the event.
      b) Were there about 79 teams in the event?
      c) Weren’t there about 79 teams in the event?
    9. Families watched the festival together.
      a) Families did not watch the festival together.
      b) Did families watch the festival together?
      c) Didn’t families watch the festival together?
    10. The festival had music and food.
      a) The festival did not have music and food.
      b) Did the festival have music and food?
      c) Didn’t the festival have music and food?
    11. The balloons flew freely without ropes in 2026.
      a) The balloons did not fly freely without ropes in 2026.
      b) Did the balloons fly freely without ropes in 2026?
      c) Didn’t the balloons fly freely without ropes in 2026?
    12. The stadium was called Jakarta Stadium.
      a) The stadium was not called Jakarta Stadium.
      b) Was the stadium called Jakarta Stadium?
      c) Wasn’t the stadium called Jakarta Stadium?
    13. Visitors came from other cities.
      a) Visitors did not come from other cities.
      b) Did visitors come from other cities?
      c) Didn’t visitors come from other cities?
    14. There were only 10 teams in the festival.
      a) There were not only 10 teams in the festival.
      b) Were there only 10 teams in the festival?
      c) Weren’t there only 10 teams in the festival?
    15. Young people learned to make balloons.
      a) Young people did not learn to make balloons.
      b) Did young people learn to make balloons?
      c) Didn’t young people learn to make balloons?
    16. The festival was important for culture.
      a) The festival was not important for culture.
      b) Was the festival important for culture?
      c) Wasn’t the festival important for culture?
    17. The festival showed creativity and togetherness. (REPLACED)
      a) The festival did not show creativity and togetherness.
      b) Did the festival show creativity and togetherness?
      c) Didn’t the festival show creativity and togetherness?
    18. People felt happy at the festival.
      a) People did not feel happy at the festival.
      b) Did people feel happy at the festival?
      c) Didn’t people feel happy at the festival?
    19. The balloons looked like animals and flowers.
      a) The balloons did not look like animals and flowers.
      b) Did the balloons look like animals and flowers?
      c) Didn’t the balloons look like animals and flowers?
    20. The festival was dangerous in 2026.
      a) The festival was not dangerous in 2026.
      b) Was the festival dangerous in 2026?
      c) Wasn’t the festival dangerous in 2026?

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

    Complete in past simple:

    Wulandari ________ (go) to a balloon festival in Pekalongan after Idul Fitri. The festival ________ (happen) in 2026 at Hoegeng Stadium. She ________ (see) many people who ________ (come) with their families. About 79 teams ________ (make) colourful balloons from paper and plastic. People ________ (tie) the balloons with ropes for safety. In the past, balloons ________ (fly) freely, but now the government ________ (make) the event safer. There ________ (be) music, food, and many visitors. People ________ (see) the balloons in the sky and ________ (feel) happy. Wulandari ________ (go) around the stadium and ________ (meet) many friends. She ________ (take) photos and ________ (show) them to her parents. Young people ________ (learn) how to make balloons from older people. The festival ________ (keep) old traditions alive in a safe way. Wulandari ________ (feel) very excited and ________ (think) the event was beautiful. She ________ (know) it was one of the best moments she ________ (have) in her life.

    ________________________

    Correct version:


    Wulandari went to a balloon festival in Pekalongan after Idul Fitri. The festival happened in 2026 at Hoegeng Stadium. She saw many people who came with their families. About 79 teams made colourful balloons from paper and plastic. People tied the balloons with ropes for safety. In the past, balloons flew freely, but now the government made the event safer. There was music, food, and many visitors. People saw the balloons in the sky and felt happy. Wulandari went around the stadium and met many friends. She took photos and showed them to her parents. Young people learned how to make balloons from older people. The festival kept old traditions alive in a safe way. Wulandari felt very excited and thought the event was beautiful. She knew it was one of the best moments she had in her life.

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

    Match question and answer:

    1. Where did you go?

    2.When did the festival happen?

    3.Who did you see there?

    4.What did people make?

    5.How did they keep the balloons safe?

    6.What did you see in the sky?

    7.How did you feel?

    8.Where did you go during the festival?

    9.Who did you meet?

    10.What did you do with photos?

    11.Who learned about balloons?

    12.What did the festival keep?

    13.How did you think about the event?

    14.What did the festival show?

    Answers:

    a. I felt very happy and excited.
    b. It displayed creativity and togetherness.
    c. I moved around the stadium.
    d. I attended a balloon festival in Pekalongan.
    e. I greeted many friends.
    f. I noticed many colourful balloons.
    g. It took place in 2026 after Idul Fitri.
    h. I met many people with their families.
    i. I found it beautiful.
    j. They created colourful balloons from paper and plastic.
    k. Young people gained skills [to learn how to do something better] from older people.
    l. I captured [take ] pictures and gave them to my parents.
    m. They controlled them with ropes.
    n. It maintained [keep] old traditions alive.

    ______________________

    Answers:
    1-d, 2-g, 3-h, 4-j, 5-m, 6-f, 7-a, 8-c, 9-e, 10-l, 11-k, 12-n, 13-i, 14-b

    ______________________

    Full dialogue:

    1. Where did you go? — I attended a balloon festival in Pekalongan.
    2. When did the festival happen? — It took place in 2026 after Idul Fitri.
    3. Who did you see there? — I met many people with their families.
    4. What did people make? — They created colourful balloons from paper and plastic.
    5. How did they keep the balloons safe? — They controlled them with ropes.
    6. What did you see in the sky? — I noticed many colourful balloons.
    7. How did you feel? — I felt very happy and excited.
    8. Where did you go during the festival? — I moved around the stadium.
    9. Who did you meet? — I greeted many friends.
    10. What did you do with photos? — I captured pictures and gave them to my parents.
    11. Who learned about balloons? — Young people gained skills from older people.
    12. What did the festival keep? — It maintained old traditions alive.
    13. How did you think about the event? — I found it beautiful.
    14. What did the festival show? — It displayed creativity and togetherness.

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

    Answer the following questions:

    1. Where did Wulandari go after Idul Fitri?
    2. What is the name of the city?
    3. When did the festival happen?
    4. Where did the festival take place?
    5. Who went to the festival with Wulandari?
    6. What did people make at the festival?
    7. What materials did they use for balloons?
    8. How did they keep the balloons safe?
    9. What did Wulandari see in the sky?
    10. Was there music at the festival?
    11. Was there food at the festival?
    12. How did Wulandari feel at the festival?
    13. What did young people learn?
    14. What did the festival show?
    15. Was the festival important for culture?

    ________________________

    Answers:

    Where did Wulandari go after Idul Fitri? — She went to a balloon festival in Pekalongan.

    What is the name of the city? — The city is Pekalongan.

    When did the festival happen? — It happened in 2026.

    Where did the festival take place? — It took place at Hoegeng Stadium.

    Who went to the festival with Wulandari? — Her family went with her.

    What did people make at the festival? — They made colourful balloons.

    What materials did they use for balloons? — They used paper and plastic.

    How did they keep the balloons safe? — They tied them with ropes.

    What did Wulandari see in the sky? — She saw many colourful balloons.

    Was there music at the festival? — Yes, there was.

    Was there food at the festival? — Yes, there was.

    How did Wulandari feel at the festival? — She felt happy and excited.

    What did young people learn? — They learned how to make balloons.

    What did the festival show? — It showed creativity and togetherness.

    Was the festival important for culture? — Yes, it was.

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

  • 🥳💋🧚“The secret garden“, by F.H.Burnett (A1, present simple, exercises, sound files)🧚💋🥳


    The Secret Garden is a story by Frances Hodgson Burnett. It is about a girl named Mary Lennox.

    Mary is a young girl. At the start, she is not happy. She lives in India with her rich parents, but they are always busy. They do not take care of her. Mary feels lonely and often behaves rudely.

    One day, a sickness spreads in India. Many people get sick. Mary’s parents die. Mary becomes an orphan. She has no family in India.

    Mary goes to England to live with her uncle, Mr. Craven. He lives in a big house called Misselthwaite Manor. The house is old and quiet. Mary feels lonely again.

    At the house, she meets Mrs. Medlock, the housekeeper. She is strict. Mary learns that her uncle is often away because he is sad about his wife’s death.

    Mary spends time outside. She enjoys the garden. She hears about a secret garden that is locked and not used.

    Mary becomes curious. She looks for the garden. A robin bird helps her find a key and a hidden door. Mary opens the door and finds the secret garden.

    The garden is empty and wild. Mary decides to care for it. She cleans it and plants seeds. She goes there every day.

    Slowly, Mary becomes happier and kinder. The garden also becomes beautiful again. Flowers grow.

    Mary meets a boy named Dickon. He loves animals and plants. He helps Mary in the garden. They become friends.

    Mary also finds her cousin Colin. He is sick and stays in bed. He thinks he cannot walk.

    Mary tells Colin about the garden. Colin wants to see it. Mary and Dickon take him outside.

    Colin feels happy in the garden. He comes many times. He becomes stronger and starts to walk again.

    At the end, Mr. Craven comes home. He is surprised to see Colin walking and happy. He also sees the beautiful garden.

    The secret garden changes many lives. Mary, Colin, and the garden all become healthy and happy.

    ______________________

    Vocabulary

    • a secret garden: a garden that is hidden and not easy to find
    • to be busy: to have a lot of work or things to do
    • to take care of somebody: to help and look after someone
    • to feel lonely: to feel sad because you are alone
    • to behave in a rude way: to act impolitely or badly to others
    • sickness: illness; when you are not healthy
    • an orphan: a child whose parents are dead
    • a manor: a big old house, usually in the countryside
    • a housekeeper: a person who cleans and organizes a house
    • to be strict: to make people follow rules very carefully
    • to be curious: to want to learn or know new things
    • big grounds: a large area of land around a house
    • a robin (bird): a small bird with a red chest
    • to be hidden: to be not easy to see or find
    • to clean: to make something not dirty
    • to pull out weeds: to remove unwanted plants from the ground
    • to plant seeds: to put seeds in soil so plants can grow
    • all the time: always; very often
    • to believe: to think something is true
    • to be afraid: to feel scared
    • to be healthy: to be well and not sick
    • to be confident: to feel sure about yourself
    • to be surprised: to feel shocked because something unexpected happens

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

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

    Match the words with the definitions.

    Words:

    1. a secret garden
    2. to be busy
    3. to take care of somebody
    4. to feel lonely
    5. to behave in a rude way
    6. sickness
    7. an orphan
    8. a manor
    9. a housekeeper
    10. to be strict
    11. to be curious
    12. big grounds
    13. a robin (bird)
    14. to be hidden
    15. to pull out weeds
    16. to plant seeds
    17. all the time
    18. to be confident
    19. to be afraid
    20. to be surprised


    Definitions:

    A. to act impolitely or badly to others
    B. a child whose parents are dead
    C. to feel sure about yourself
    D. a big old house, usually in the countryside
    E. to remove unwanted plants from the ground
    F. to have a lot of work or things to do
    G. a small bird with a red chest
    H. to feel sad because you are alone
    I. a garden that is hidden and not easy to find
    J. to help and look after someone
    K. to feel scared
    L. to think something is true
    M. a person who cleans and organizes a house
    N. to be not easy to see or find
    O. to make people follow rules very carefully
    P. to put seeds in soil so plants can grow
    Q. a large area of land around a house
    R. always; very often
    S. illness; when you are not healthy
    T. to feel shocked because something unexpected happens

    ____________________

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

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

    Match the definitions with the words:

    Definitions:

    1. a child whose parents are dead
    2. to feel scared
    3. to make people follow rules very carefully
    4. a small bird with a red chest
    5. a garden that is hidden and not easy to find
    6. to have a lot of work or things to do
    7. a big old house, usually in the countryside
    8. to put seeds in soil so plants can grow
    9. to feel sad because you are alone
    10. to act impolitely or badly to others
    11. a person who cleans and organizes a house
    12. to remove unwanted plants from the ground
    13. to feel sure about yourself
    14. to feel shocked because something unexpected happens
    15. to help and look after someone
    16. a large area of land around a house
    17. to be not easy to see or find
    18. to think something is true
    19. illness; when you are not healthy
    20. to feel or want to learn new things

    Words:

    A. to take care of somebody
    B. to be strict
    C. a robin (bird)
    D. to behave in a rude way
    E. a manor
    F. to be afraid
    G. to plant seeds
    H. an orphan
    I. to feel lonely
    J. a housekeeper
    K. to pull out weeds
    L. to be confident
    M. a secret garden
    N. to be curious
    O. sickness
    P. big grounds
    Q. to be busy
    R. to be surprised
    S. to be hidden
    T. to believe

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

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


    True or false:

    1. Mary lives in England at the start.
    2. Mary goes to England.
    3. Mary is a girl.
    4. The manor is small.
    5. Mary never feels lonely.
    6. Mary lives in a big manor.
    7. Mary finds a secret garden.
    8. Mary always stays sad.
    9. Mary’s parents die.
    10. Mary never goes outside.
    11. Mary becomes an orphan.
    12. Mary stays in India after her parents die.
    13. Mary is a boy.
    14. Mary plants seeds in the garden.
    15. Mary feels lonely at the start.
    16. Mary breaks the garden.
    17. Mary lives in India at the start.
    18. Mary becomes happy.
    19. The garden is not hidden.
    20. Mary takes care of the garden.

    ________________________

    True: 2,3,6,7,9,11,14,15,17,18,20

    ________________________

    Correct version:

    1. Mary lives in England at the start. True is: Mary lives in India at the start.
    2. Mary goes to England.
    3. Mary is a girl.
    4. The manor is small. True is: The manor is a big old house in the countryside.
    5. Mary never feels lonely. True is: Mary feels lonely.
    6. Mary lives in a big manor.
    7. Mary finds a secret garden.
    8. Mary always stays sad. True is: Mary becomes happy.
    9. Mary’s parents die.
    10. Mary never goes outside. True is: Mary goes outside.
    11. Mary becomes an orphan.
    12. Mary stays in India after her parents die. True is: Mary goes to England.
    13. Mary is a boy. True is: Mary is a girl.
    14. Mary plants seeds in the garden.
    15. Mary feels lonely at the start.
    16. Mary breaks the garden. True is: Mary takes care of the garden.
    17. Mary lives in India at the start.
    18. Mary becomes happy.
    19. The garden is not hidden. True is: The garden is hidden.
    20. Mary takes care of the garden.

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

    Short answers, basics:

    Example SentenceYesNo
    I learn the alphabet.Yes, I do.No, I don’t.
    You read signs.Yes, you do.No, you don’t.
    He practices speaking.Yes, he does.No, he doesn’t.
    She watches cartoons.Yes, she does.No, she doesn’t.
    It helps us learn English.Yes, it does.No, it doesn’t.
    We use apps like Duolingo.Yes, we do.No, we don’t.
    You read labels.Yes, you do.No, you don’t.
    They make mistakes sometimes.Yes, they do.No, they don’t.
    QuestionYesNo
    Do I learn the alphabet?Yes, I do.No, I don’t.
    Do you read signs?Yes, you do.No, you don’t.
    Does he practice speaking?Yes, he does.No, he doesn’t.
    Does she watch cartoons?Yes, she does.No, she doesn’t.
    Does it help us learn English?Yes, it does.No, it doesn’t.
    Do we use apps like Duolingo?Yes, we do.No, we don’t.
    Do you read labels?Yes, you do.No, you don’t.
    Do they make mistakes sometimes?Yes, they do.No, they don’t.
    QuestionYesNo
    Am I big?Yes, I am.No, I am not.
    Are you big?Yes, you are.No, you aren’t.
    Is he big?Yes, he is.No, he isn’t.
    Is she big?Yes, she is.No, she isn’t.
    Is it big?Yes, it is.No, it isn’t.
    Are we big?Yes, we are.No, we aren’t.
    Are you big?Yes, you are.No, you aren’t.
    Are they big?Yes, they are.No, they aren’t.

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

    Short answers, yes or no?

    1. Mary lives in England at the start.

      YOU WRITE: No, she doesn’t.
    2. Mary goes to England.
    3. Mary is a girl.
    4. The manor is small.
    5. Mary never feels lonely.
    6. Mary lives in a big manor.
    7. Mary finds a secret garden.
    8. Mary always stays sad.
    9. Mary’s parents die.
    10. Mary never goes outside.
    11. Mary becomes an orphan.
    12. Mary stays in India after her parents die.
    13. Mary is a boy.
    14. Mary plants seeds in the garden.
    15. Mary feels lonely at the start.
    16. Mary breaks the garden.
    17. Mary lives in India at the start.
    18. Mary becomes happy.
    19. The garden is not hidden.
    20. Mary takes care of the garden.

    ____________________
    Answers:

    1. Mary lives in England at the start. No, she doesn’t.
    2. Mary goes to England. Yes, she does.
    3. Mary is a girl. Yes, she is.
    4. The manor is small. No, it isn’t.
    5. Mary never feels lonely. No, she doesn’t.
    6. Mary lives in a big manor. Yes, she does.
    7. Mary finds a secret garden. Yes, she does.
    8. Mary always stays sad. No, she doesn’t.
    9. Mary’s parents die. Yes, they do.
    10. Mary never goes outside. No, she doesn’t.
    11. Mary becomes an orphan. Yes, she does.
    12. Mary stays in India after her parents die. No, she doesn’t.
    13. Mary is a boy. No, she isn’t.
    14. Mary plants seeds in the garden. Yes, she does.
    15. Mary feels lonely at the start. Yes, she does.
    16. Mary breaks the garden. No, she doesn’t.
    17. Mary lives in India at the start. Yes, she does.
    18. Mary becomes happy. Yes, she does.
    19. The garden is not hidden. No, it isn’t.
    20. Mary takes care of the garden. Yes, she does.

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

    Basics of present simple:

    Personal Pronounam / is / are
    Iam8 years old
    Youare8 years old
    Heis8 years old
    Sheis8 years old
    Itis8 years old
    Weare8 years old
    You (plural)are8 years old
    Theyare8 years old
    Personal Pronounam not / is not / are not
    Iam not8 years old
    Youare not8 years old
    Heis not8 years old
    Sheis not8 years old
    Itis not8 years old
    Weare not8 years old
    You (plural)are not8 years old
    Theyare not8 years old

    Question:

    Question WordPersonal Pronoun
    AmI8 years old?
    Areyou8 years old?
    Ishe8 years old?
    Isshe8 years old?
    Isit8 years old?
    Arewe8 years old?
    Areyou (plural)8 years old?
    Arethey8 years old?

    Statement:

    Personal PronounVerb
    Ilikeice cream
    Youlikeice cream
    Helikesice cream
    Shelikesice cream
    Itlikesice cream
    Welikeice cream
    You (plural)likeice cream
    Theylikeice cream

    Negation:

    Personal PronounVerb (negative)
    Ido not likeice cream
    Youdo not likeice cream
    Hedoes not likeice cream
    Shedoes not likeice cream
    Itdoes not likeice cream
    Wedo not likeice cream
    You (plural)do not likeice cream
    Theydo not likeice cream

    Question:

    Do / DoesPersonal PronounVerbSugar?
    DoIlikesugar?
    Doyoulikesugar?
    Doeshelikesugar?
    Doesshelikesugar?
    Doesitlikesugar?
    Dowelikesugar?
    Doyou (plural)likesugar?
    Dotheylikesugar?

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

    Form a) a question, b) a negation, as shown in rist sentence:

    Mary is happy at the end.
    a) Is Mary happy at the end?
    b) Mary is not happy at the end.

    Mary lives in England at the start.

    Mary’s parents live at the end.

    Mary is a boy.

    Mary is happy at the start.

    Mary stays in India after her parents die.

    The manor is small.

    Mary goes outside all the time.

    Mary breaks the garden.

    The garden is open.

    _____________________

    Correct version:

    Mary is happy at the end.
    a) Is Mary happy at the end?
    b) Mary is not happy at the end.

    Mary lives in England at the start.
    a) Does Mary live in England at the start?
    b) Mary does not live in England at the start.

    Mary’s parents live at the end.
    a) Do Mary’s parents live at the end?
    b) Mary’s parents do not live at the end.

    Mary is a boy.
    a) Is Mary a boy?
    b) Mary is not a boy.

    Mary is happy at the start.
    a) Is Mary happy at the start?
    b) Mary is not happy at the start.

    Mary stays in India after her parents die.
    a) Does Mary stay in India after her parents die?
    b) Mary does not stay in India after her parents die.

    The manor is small.
    a) Is the manor small?
    b) The manor is not small.

    Mary goes outside all the time.
    a) Does Mary go outside all the time?
    b) Mary does not go outside all the time.

    Mary breaks the garden.
    a) Does Mary break the garden?
    b) Mary does not break the garden.

    The garden is open.
    a) Is the garden open?
    b) The garden is not open.

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


    Mixed scramble:

    1. at / Mary / in / lives / India / start / the

      YOU WRITE:
      Mary lives in India at the start.

    2. to / Mary / goes / England
    3. a / is / Mary / girl
    4. parents / die / Mary’s
    5. becomes / orphan / Mary / an
    6. is / manor / the / big
    7. finds / secret / Mary / a / garden
    8. seeds / Mary / plants / in / the / garden
    9. becomes / Mary / happy
    10. is / garden / the / hidden

    _________________

    Correct version:

    1. Mary lives in India at the start.
    2. Mary goes to England.
    3. Mary is a girl.
    4. Mary’s parents die.
    5. Mary becomes an orphan.
    6. The manor is big.
    7. Mary finds a secret garden.
    8. Mary plants seeds in the garden.
    9. Mary becomes happy.
    10. The garden is hidden.

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

    Form questions to which the words given are the answer:

    1. Mary lives in India at the start.

      a) Mary:
      b) lives in India:
      c) at the start:
      d) in India:
    2. Mary goes to England.

      a) Mary:
      b) goes to England:
      c) to England:
    3. Mary likes being a girl.

      a) Mary:
      b) likes being a girl:
    4. Mary’s parents die.

      a) Mary’s:
      b) Mary’s parents:
    5. Mary becomes an orphan.

      a) becomes an orphan:
      b) an orphan:
    6. The manor is in a big garden.

      a) The manor:
      b) in a big garden:
      c) big
    7. Mary finds a secret garden.

      a) finds a secret garden
      b) a secret garden
      c) secret
    8. Mary plants seeds in the garden.

      a) plants seeds:
      b) seeds:
      c) in the garden:
    9. Mary is a happy girl.

      a) Mary:
      b) happy:
    10. The garden is hidden behind a door.

      a) The garden:
      b) behind a door:

    ______________________

    Correct answers:


    Mary lives in India at the start.

    a) Who lives in India at the start?
    b) Where does Mary live?
    c) When does Mary live in India?
    d) Where does Mary live at the start?


    Mary goes to England.

    a) Who goes to England?
    b) What does Mary do?
    c) Where does she go?


    Mary likes being a girl.

    a) Who likes being a girl?
    b) What does Mary like?


    Mary’s parents die.

    a) Whose parents die?
    b) Who dies?


    Mary becomes an orphan.

    a) What does Mary do?
    b) What does Mary become?


    The manor is in a big garden.

    a) What is in a big garden?
    b) Where is the manor?
    c) In which garden is the manor?


    Mary finds a secret garden.

    a) What does Mary do?
    b) What does Mary find?
    c) What kind of garden/Which garden does Mary find?


    Mary plants seeds in the garden.

    a) What does Mary do?
    b) What does Mary plant?
    c) Where does Mary plant seeds?


    Mary is a happy girl.

    a) Who is a happy girl?
    b) What kind of girl is Mary?


    The garden is hidden behind a door.

    a) What is hidden behind a door?
    b) Where is the garden hidden?

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

    Fill in, words below:

    die – manor – my – garden – hidden – lonely –
    girl – Mary – India – England – secret

    1.
    Q: Who is your story about?
    A: __________ story is about Mary.

    2.
    Q: What is Mary?
    A: Mary is a __________.

    3.
    Q: Where does Mary live at the start?
    A: Mary lives in _________ at the start.

    4.
    Q: What happens to Mary’s parents?
    A: Mary’s parents __________.

    5.
    Q: Who becomes an orphan?
    A: __________ becomes an orphan.

    6.
    Q: Where does Mary go?
    A: Mary goes to ________.

    7.
    Q: Where does Mary live in England?
    A: Mary lives in a __________.

    8.
    Q: What does Mary find?
    A: Mary finds a __________garden.

    9.
    Q: Where does Mary plant seeds?
    A: Mary plants seeds in the __________.

    10.
    Q: How does Mary feel at the start?
    A: Mary feels _________ at the start.

    11.
    Q: How does Mary become later?
    A: Mary becomes happy.

    12.
    Q: What kind of garden is it?
    A: The garden is __________.

    ————————————–
    Correct version:

    1.
    Q: Who is your story about?
    A: My story is about Mary.

    2.
    Q: What is Mary?
    A: Mary is a girl.

    3.
    Q: Where does Mary live at the start?
    A: Mary lives in India at the start.

    4.
    Q: What happens to Mary’s parents?
    A: Mary’s parents die.

    5.
    Q: Who becomes an orphan?
    A: Mary becomes an orphan.

    6.
    Q: Where does Mary go?
    A: Mary goes to England.

    7.
    Q: Where does Mary live in England?
    A: Mary lives in a manor.

    8.
    Q: What does Mary find?
    A: Mary finds a secret garden.

    9.
    Q: Where does Mary plant seeds?
    A: Mary plants seeds in the garden.

    10.
    Q: How does Mary feel at the start?
    A: Mary feels lonely at the start.

    11.
    Q: How does Mary become later?
    A: Mary becomes happy.

    12.
    Q: What hkind of garden is it?
    A: The garden is hidden.

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

    Provide answers, in complete sentences, or in short answers:

    1. Who is the story about?

      YOU WRITE:
      The story is about Mary.

    2. Where does Mary live at the start?
    3. What happens to Mary’s parents?
    4. What does Mary become?
    5. Where does Mary go after her parents die?
    6. Where does Mary live in England?
    7. Who lives in the manor with Mary?
    8. What does Mary feel at the start?
    9. Why does Mary feel lonely?
    10. What does Mary find?
    11. Where is the secret garden?
    12. Is the garden hidden?
    13. What does Mary do in the garden?
    14. What does Mary plant in the garden?
    15. How does Mary feel at the end?
    16. Does Mary become happy?
    17. Does Mary go outside?
    18. Does Mary stay in India after her parents die?
    19. Is the manor big?
    20. What does Mary become at the end?

    ________________________

    Correct answers:

    1. Who is the story about? The story is about Mary.
    2. Where does Mary live at the start? Mary lives in India at the start.
    3. What happens to Mary’s parents? Mary’s parents die.
    4. What does Mary become? Mary becomes an orphan.
    5. Where does Mary go after her parents die? Mary goes to England.
    6. Where does Mary live in England? Mary lives in a manor.
    7. Who lives in the manor with Mary? Mary lives with the housekeeper.
    8. What does Mary feel at the start? Mary feels lonely at the start.
    9. Why does Mary feel lonely? Her parents are dead.
    10. What does Mary find? Mary finds a secret garden.
    11. Where is the secret garden? The secret garden is in the big grounds.
    12. Is the garden hidden? Yes, it is.
    13. What does Mary do in the garden? Mary takes care of the garden.
    14. What does Mary plant in the garden? Mary plants seeds in the garden.

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

  • 🥳⛲🌧️ A rainy day that changed everything (A2, past simple, grammar, short answers, questions and answers)🌧️⛲🥳

    • Mia meets Leo by the river and a new friendship begins.

    Vocabulary:

    to feel excited: to feel very happy and full of energy

    to change everything: to make everything different

    to feel bored: to feel like nothing is interesting

    a little bit: a small amount

    a bike: a bicycle you ride

    to wave: to move your hand to say hello or goodbye

    to smile: to show happiness with your mouth

    to walk with somebody: to go on foot together with someone

    to laugh: to make a happy sound because something is funny

    to be calm (river): to be quiet and not moving fast

    to throw stones: to send stones through the air with your hand

    to watch: to look at something carefully

    to jump: to move quickly up into the air

    to skip a big stone: to throw a stone so it bounces on water

    a splash: the sound or drops of water when something hits water

    to get wet: to have water on your body or clothes

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

    Reorganize the paragraphs to get the full story:

    1. Leo had a funny idea. He tried to skip a big stone, but it fell with a loud splash. Mia laughed a lot.
    2. Mia went home later that day. She felt happy and excited. Now she had a new friend, and every day felt new.
    3. One day, Mia saw a boy on a bike. He waved and smiled. His name was Leo, and he was new in town.
    4. After school, Leo asked Mia to walk with him. They talked and laughed. Mia felt happy and not bored anymore.
    5. They found a small shop and went inside. The shop was warm. They drank hot tea and smiled.
    6. Mia was a young girl. She lived in a small town near a river. Every day she walked to school and felt a little bored.
    7. Soon, it started to rain. Big drops fell from the sky. They ran fast and got very wet.
    8. They went to the river. The water was blue and calm. They threw small stones and watched them jump.

    __________________________

    Answers: 6 -3 -4 -8 -5 -7 -1 2

    __________________________

    Correct version:


    Mia was a young girl. She lived in a small town near a river. Every day she walked to school and felt a little bored.

    One day, Mia saw a boy on a bike. He waved and smiled. His name was Leo, and he was new in town.

    After school, Leo asked Mia to walk with him. They talked and laughed. Mia felt happy and not bored anymore.

    They went to the river. The water was blue and calm. They threw small stones and watched them jump.

    Leo had a funny idea. He tried to skip a big stone, but it fell with a loud splash. Mia laughed a lot.

    Soon, it started to rain. Big drops fell from the sky. They ran fast and got very wet.

    They found a small shop and went inside. The shop was warm. They drank hot tea and smiled.

    Mia went home later that day. She felt happy and excited. Now she had a new friend, and every day felt new.

    ______________________

    Basics in past simple:

    Past Simple – Regular Verbs

    Rules:

    • 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, regular and irregular past tense:

    InfinitivePast Simple
    to bewas / were
    to livelived
    to walkwalked
    to feelfelt
    to seesaw
    to wavewaved
    to smilesmiled
    to askasked
    to talktalked
    to laughlaughed
    to gowent
    to throwthrew
    to watchwatched
    to havehad
    to trytried
    to skipskipped
    to fallfell
    to startstarted
    to rainrained
    to runran
    to getgot
    to findfound
    to drinkdrank

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


    Match the words to the definitions

    Words:

    1. to feel excited
    2. to throw stones
    3. to change everything
    4. to smile
    5. to wave
    6. to laugh
    7. to be calm (river)
    8. a bike
    9. to feel bored
    10. to get wet
    11. to watch
    12. to walk with somebody
    13. to skip a big stone
    14. a splash
    15. a little bit
    16. to jump

    Definitions:


    A. to move your hand to say hello or goodbye
    B. to feel very happy and full of energy
    C. to look at something carefully
    D. to be quiet and not moving fast
    E. to show happiness with your mouth
    F. to make everything different
    G. a bicycle you ride
    H. to go on foot together with someone
    I. to make a happy sound because something is funny
    J. to have water on your body or clothes
    K. to throw a stone so it bounces on water
    L. the sound or drops of water when something hits water
    M. to feel like nothing is interesting
    N. to move quickly up into the air
    O. to send stones through the air with your hand
    P. a small amount


    ______________________

    Answers:
    1-B, 2-O, 3-F, 4-E, 5-A, 6-I,
    7-D, 8-G, 9-M, 10-J, 11-C,
    12-H, 13-K, 14-L, 15-P, 16-N

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

    Find the correct word:

    1. to make a happy sound because something is funny
    2. to show happiness with your mouth
    3. a bicycle you ride
    4. to move your hand to say hello or goodbye
    5. to feel very happy and full of energy
    6. to have water on your body or clothes
    7. to move quickly up into the air
    8. to make everything different
    9. to look at something carefully
    10. to feel like nothing is interesting
    11. to go on foot together with someone
    12. to be quiet and not moving fast
    13. the sound or drops of water when something hits water
    14. to send stones through the air with your hand
    15. to throw a stone so it bounces on water
    16. a small amount

    Words :
    A. to feel bored
    B. to smile
    C. a bike
    D. to wave
    E. to feel excited
    F. to get wet
    G. to jump
    H. to change everything
    I. to watch
    J. to laugh
    K. to walk with somebody
    L. to be calm (river)
    M. a splash
    N. to throw stones
    O. to skip a big stone
    P. a little bit


    ______________________

    Answers:
    1-J, 2-B, 3-C, 4-D, 5-E, 6-F,
    7-G, 8-H, 9-I, 10-A, 11-K, 12-L,
    13-M, 14-N, 15-O, 16-P

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

    True or False:

    1. To throw stones means to keep stones in your pocket without moving them.
    2. To be calm (river) means the water is quiet and not moving fast.
    3. To smile means to cry loudly when you are sad.
    4. To wave means to move your hand to say hello or goodbye.
    5. A splash is the sound when fire burns wood.
    6. To change everything means to keep everything exactly the same.
    7. To walk with somebody means to go on foot together with someone.
    8. To laugh means to make a happy sound because something is funny.
    9. To feel excited means to feel very happy and full of energy.
    10. To skip a big stone means to eat the stone quickly.
    11. A bike is something you ride with two wheels.
    12. To get wet means to have water on your body or clothes.
    13. To watch means to close your eyes and sleep.
    14. To feel bored means everything feels very interesting.

    ________________________

    Answers:
    1F, 2T, 3F, 4T, 5F, 6F, 7T, 8T,
    9T, 10F, 11T, 12T, 13F, 14F

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

    True or false:

    1. Mia and Leo went to school together in the morning.
    2. They went to the river and threw stones.
    3. Leo was Mia’s brother.
    4. Mia felt bored at the beginning of the story.
    5. They flew a kite [a light toy that flies in the wind, you hold it with a string] in the rain.
    6. Mia and Leo laughed together.
    7. It was sunny all day and nothing changed.
    8. Mia went home feeling sad and bored again.
    9. The river water was blue and calm.
    10. They drank hot tea in a small shop.
    11. Leo fell into the river and got very angry.
    12. Mia and Leo walked together after school.
    13. Mia did not like Leo at all.
    14. It started to rain while they were outside.
    15. Leo was new in town.
    16. The river water was dirty and brown.
    17. Mia lived in a small town near a river.
    18. They went to a big supermarket to buy food.

    ___________________________

    Answers:

    1F, 2T, 3F, 4T, 5F, 6T, 7F,
    8F, 9T, 10T, 11F, 12T, 13F,
    14T, 15T, 16F, 17T, 18F
    ###################

    Short answer questions:

    1. Where did Mia live?
    2. How did Mia feel at the beginning of the story?
    3. Who did Mia meet?
    4. What was Leo riding?
    5. What did Leo do when he saw Mia?
    6. What did Leo ask Mia to do after school?
    7. Where did Mia and Leo go together?
    8. What did they throw at the river?
    9. What was the river like?
    10. What did Mia and Leo do at the river?
    11. What happened when Leo tried to skip a big stone?
    12. What started to happen while they were outside?
    13. Where did they go when it rained?
    14. What did they drink in the shop?
    15. How did Mia feel in the shop?
    16. How did Mia feel at the end of the story?
    17. What kind of friend did Mia get?
    18. Did Mia’s life feel the same or different after meeting Leo?

    _____________________

    Short answers:

    1. Where did Mia live? – small town, near river
    2. How did Mia feel at the beginning of the story? – bored
    3. Who did Mia meet on the way to school? – Leo
    4. What was Leo riding when Mia saw him? – bike
    5. What did Leo do when he saw Mia for the first time? – waved, smiled
    6. What did Leo ask Mia to do after school? – walk together
    7. When did Mia and Leo walk together? – after school
    8. Where did Mia and Leo go after school? – river
    9. What did they do at the river? – talked, laughed, threw stones
    10. What did they throw into the river? – stones
    11. Why did Leo’s stone fall into the water? – big stone, splash
    12. What happened when Leo tried to skip a big stone? – fell, splash
    13. When did it start to rain? – while outside, later
    14. Where did Mia and Leo go when it started to rain? – shop
    15. What did Mia and Leo drink in the shop? – hot tea
    16. How did Mia feel while she was in the shop? – warm, happy
    17. How did Mia feel at the end of the day? – happy, excited
    18. What changed in Mia’s life after meeting Leo? – new friend, not bored, different days

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

    Short answers, past simple, basics:

    Example SentenceYesNo
    I learned letters.Yes, I did.No, I didn’t.
    You read signs.Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    He spoke English.Yes, he did.No, he didn’t.
    She watched TV.Yes, she did.No, she didn’t.
    It helped me.Yes, it did.No, it didn’t.
    We used an app.Yes, we did.No, we didn’t.
    You read words.Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    They made mistakes.Yes, they did.No, they didn’t.

    Questions (Past Simple)

    QuestionYesNo
    Did I learn letters?Yes, I did.No, I didn’t.
    Did you read signs?Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    Did he speak English?Yes, he did.No, he didn’t.
    Did she watch TV?Yes, she did.No, she didn’t.
    Did it help me?Yes, it did.No, it didn’t.
    Did we use an app?Yes, we did.No, we didn’t.
    Did you read words?Yes, you did.No, you didn’t.
    Did they make mistakes?Yes, they did.No, they didn’t.

    Was / Were

    QuestionYesNo
    Was I happy?Yes, I was.No, I wasn’t.
    Were you happy?Yes, you were.No, you weren’t.
    Was he happy?Yes, he was.No, he wasn’t.
    Was she happy?Yes, she was.No, she wasn’t.
    Was it good?Yes, it was.No, it wasn’t.
    Were we happy?Yes, we were.No, we weren’t.
    Were you happy?Yes, you were.No, you weren’t.
    Were they happy?Yes, they were.No, they weren’t.

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

    Short answers:

    1. Leo rode a bike when Mia saw him.

      YOU WRITE:
      Yes, he did.

    2. Mia went home feeling sad and bored again.
    3. Mia and Leo walked together after school.
    4. They played football in a big stadium.
    5. Mia lived in a small town near a river.
    6. They went to a cinema to watch a movie.
    7. It was sunny all day and nothing changed.
    8. The river was blue and calm.
    9. Mia met Leo on her way to school.
    10. Leo was Mia’s brother.
    11. They stayed inside all day and never went outside.
    12. Mia felt bored at the beginning of the story.
    13. Leo fell into the river and got very angry.
    14. They drank hot tea in a small shop.
    15. Mia and Leo did not talk to each other.
    16. They went to the river and threw stones.
    17. Leo was new in town.
    18. The river water was dirty and dangerous.

    ________________________

    Answers:

    1. Leo rode a bike when Mia saw him. – Yes, he did.
    2. Mia went home feeling sad and bored again. – No, she didn’t.
    3. Mia and Leo walked together after school. – Yes, they did.
    4. They played football in a big stadium. – No, they didn’t.
    5. Mia lived in a small town near a river. – Yes, she did.
    6. They went to a cinema to watch a movie. – No, they didn’t.
    7. It was sunny all day and nothing changed. – No, it wasn’t.
    8. The river was blue and calm. – Yes, it was.
    9. Mia met Leo on her way to school. – Yes, she did.
    10. Leo was Mia’s brother. – No, he wasn’t.
    11. They stayed inside all day and never went outside. – No, they didn’t.
    12. Mia felt bored at the beginning of the story. – Yes, she did.
    13. Leo fell into the river and got very angry. – No, he didn’t.
    14. They drank hot tea in a small shop. – Yes, they did.
    15. Mia and Leo did not talk to each other. – No, they didn’t.
    16. They went to the river and threw stones. – Yes, they did.
    17. Leo was new in town. – Yes, he was.
    18. The river water was dirty and dangerous. – No, it wasn’t.

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

    Basics in past simple:

    Personal PronounVerb (Past)Object
    Iateapples
    Youateapples
    Heateapples
    Sheateapples
    Itateapples
    Weateapples
    You (plural)ateapples
    Theyateapples
    Iplayedfootball
    Youplayedfootball
    Heplayedfootball
    Sheplayedfootball
    Itplayedfootball
    Weplayedfootball
    You (plural)playedfootball
    Theyplayedfootball
    Personal PronounVerb (Past Negative)Object
    Idid not eatapples
    Youdid not eatapples
    Hedid not eatapples
    Shedid not eatapples
    Itdid not eatapples
    Wedid not eatapples
    You (plural)did not eatapples
    Theydid not eatapples
    Idid not playfootball
    Youdid not playfootball
    Hedid not playfootball
    Shedid not playfootball
    Itdid not playfootball
    Wedid not playfootball
    You (plural)did not playfootball
    Theydid not playfootball
    Did + PronounVerbObject
    Did Ieatapples?
    Did youeatapples?
    Did heeatapples?
    Did sheeatapples?
    Did iteatapples?
    Did weeatapples?
    Did youeatapples?
    Did theyeatapples?
    Did Iplayfootball?
    Did youplayfootball?
    Did heplayfootball?
    Did sheplayfootball?
    Did itplayfootball?
    Did weplayfootball?
    Did youplayfootball?
    Did theyplayfootball?
    Didn’t + PronounVerbObject
    Didn’t Ieatapples?
    Didn’t youeatapples?
    Didn’t heeatapples?
    Didn’t sheeatapples?
    Didn’t iteatapples?
    Didn’t weeatapples?
    Didn’t youeatapples?
    Didn’t theyeatapples?
    Didn’t Iplayfootball?
    Didn’t youplayfootball?
    Didn’t heplayfootball?
    Didn’t sheplayfootball?
    Didn’t itplayfootball?
    Didn’t weplayfootball?
    Didn’t youplayfootball?
    Didn’t theyplayfootball?

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

    Past simple forms of ‚to be‘:

    PersonPast
    Iwas
    Youwere
    He/She/Itwas
    Wewere
    You (pl)were
    Theywere
    PersonQuestion
    IWas I …?
    YouWere you …?
    He/She/ItWas he/she/it …?
    WeWere we …?
    You (pl)Were you …?
    TheyWere they …?
    PersonNegative
    II was not (I wasn’t)
    YouYou were not (You weren’t)
    He/She/ItHe/She/It was not (He/She/It wasn’t)
    WeWe were not (We weren’t)
    You (pl)You were not (You weren’t)
    TheyThey were not (They weren’t)
    PersonNegative Question
    IWasn’t I …?
    YouWeren’t you …?
    He/She/ItWasn’t he/she/it …?
    WeWeren’t we …?
    You (pl)Weren’t you …?
    TheyWeren’t they …?

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

    Answer as shown:

    1. Mia lived in a big city far away from any river.

      YOU WRITE:
      No, she didn’t.
      She lived in a city near the river

    2. Leo was Mia’s brother.
    3. Mia felt excited and happy at the beginning of the story.
    4. Mia and Leo went to school together every morning.
    5. The river water was dirty and dangerous.
    6. Mia and Leo never talked to each other.
    7. They went to a cinema to watch a movie.
    8. It was sunny all day and never rained.
    9. Leo fell into the river and got very angry.
    10. Mia went home feeling sad and bored again.
    11. Mia and Leo did not meet each other at all.
    12. Leo stayed in town for only one hour.
    13. They rode horses to school together.
    14. The river was red and full of fire.
    15. Mia threw a big stone into the sky like a ball.
    16. They ate pizza inside the river.
    17. Leo could not ride a bike.
    18. Mia stayed home all day and never went outside.
    19. They did not laugh together at all.
    20. The shop where they went was cold and dark, and they left immediately.

    _________________________

    Answers:

    1. Mia lived in a big city far away from any river. – No, she didn’t. She lived in a small town near the river.
    2. Leo was Mia’s brother. – No, he wasn’t. He was a new boy in town.
    3. Mia felt excited and happy at the beginning of the story. – No, she didn’t. She felt bored.
    4. Mia and Leo went to school together every morning. – No, they didn’t. They met on the way to school.
    5. The river water was dirty and dangerous. – No, it wasn’t. It was blue and calm.
    6. Mia and Leo never talked to each other. – No, they didn’t. They talked and laughed together.
    7. They went to a cinema to watch a movie. – No, they didn’t. They went to the river.
    8. It was sunny all day and never rained. – No, it wasn’t. It started to rain.
    9. Leo fell into the river and got very angry. – No, he didn’t. He dropped a stone into the water.
    10. Mia went home feeling sad and bored again. – No, she didn’t. She went home happy and excited.
    11. Mia and Leo did not meet each other at all. – No, they didn’t. They met and became friends.
    12. Leo stayed in town for only one hour. – No, he didn’t. He lived there as a new student.
    13. They rode horses to school together. – No, they didn’t. Leo rode a bike.
    14. The river was red and full of fire. – No, it wasn’t. It was blue and calm.
    15. Mia threw a big stone into the sky like a ball. – No, she didn’t. She threw stones into the river.
    16. They ate pizza inside the river. – No, they didn’t. They drank hot tea in a shop.
    17. Leo could not ride a bike. – No, he couldn’t. He rode a bike.
    18. Mia stayed home all day and never went outside. – No, she didn’t. She went to school and met Leo.
    19. They did not laugh together at all. – No, they didn’t. They laughed together.
    20. The shop where they went was cold and dark, and they left immediately. – No, it wasn’t. It was warm, and they stayed and drank tea.

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

    Form questions to which the words given are the answer:

    1. Mia’s town was near a river.
      a) Mia’s town:
      b) Mia’s:
      c) near a river:
    2. Leo’s bike was from Germany.
      a) Leo’s bike:
      b) Leo’s:
      c) Germany
    3. Mia walked to school every day.
      a) Mia:
      b) walked to school every day:
      c) school:
      d) every day:
    4. Leo rode a bike in the afternoon.
      a) Leo:
      b) rode a bike in the afternoon:
      c) a bike:
      d) in the afternoon:
    5. Mia and Leo went to the river after school.
      a) Mia and Leo:
      b) went to the river after school:
      c) the river:
      d) after school:
    6. They threw stones into the river.
      a) They:
      b) threw stones at the river:
      c) stones:
      d) the river:
    7. Mia’s day was a good one.
      a) Mia’s day:
      b) Mia’s:
      c) a good one:

    _______________________

    Correct version:

    Mia’s town was near a river.
    a) Mia’s town: What was near a river?
    b) Mia’s: Whose town was near a river?
    c) near a river: Where was Mia’s town?


    Leo’s bike was from Germany.
    a) Leo’s bike: What was from Germany?
    b) Leo’s: Whose bike was from Germany?
    c) Germany: Where was Leo’s bike from?


    Mia walked to school every day.
    a) Mia: Who walked to school every day?
    b) walked to school every day: What did Mia do every day?
    c) school: Where did Mia walk to?
    d) every day: How often/When did Mia walk to school?


    Leo rode a bike in the afternoon.
    a) Leo: Who rode a bike in the afternoon?
    b) rode a bike in the afternoon: What did Leo do in the afternoon?
    c) a bike: What did Leo ride?
    d) in the afternoon: When did Leo ride a bike?


    Mia and Leo went to the river after school.
    a) Mia and Leo: Who went to the river?
    b) went to the river after school: What did Mia and Leo do after school?
    c) the river: Where did Mia and Leo go?
    d) after school: When did they go to the river?


    They threw stones into the river.
    a) They: Who threw stones into the river?
    b) threw stones at the river: What did they do?
    c) stones: What did they throw into the river?
    d) the river: Where did they throw the stones into?


    Mia’s day was a good one.
    a) Mia’s day: What was a good one?
    b) Mia’s: Whose day was a good one?
    c) a good one: What kind of day was Mia’s day?

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

    Fill in – past simple:

    Mia ______________ (live) in a small town near a river.
    She ______________ (feel) bored every day when she ______________ (walk) to school.
    One day, she ______________ (meet) a boy named Leo who ______________ (ride) a bike and ______________ (be) new in town.
    He ______________ (wave) and ______________ (smile) at her.
    After school, Leo ______________ (ask) Mia to walk with him, and they ______________ (go) to the river together.
    They ______________ (talk), ______________ (laugh), and ______________ (throw) stones into the calm blue water.
    Leo ______________ (try) to skip a big stone, but it ______________ (fall) with a splash.
    Suddenly, it ______________ (start) to rain, and they ______________ (run) to a small shop.
    They ______________ (drink) hot tea and ______________ (stay) warm inside.
    Later, Mia ______________ (go) home feeling happy and excited.
    She ______________ (have) a new friend, and her life ______________ (change).
    Every day ______________ (become) more interesting because she ______________ (spend) time with Leo and ______________ (enjoy) their small adventures together by the river.

    ———————————–
    Correct version:

    Mia lived in a small town near a river.
    She felt bored every day when she walked to school.
    One day, she met a boy named Leo who rode a bike and was new in town.
    He waved and smiled at her.
    After school, Leo asked Mia to walk with him, and they went to the river together.
    They talked, laughed, and threw stones into the calm blue water.
    Leo tried to skip a big stone, but it fell with a splash.
    Suddenly, it started to rain, and they ran to a small shop.
    They drank hot tea and stayed warm inside.
    Later, Mia went home feeling happy and excited.
    She had a new friend, and her life changed.
    Every day became more interesting because she spent time with Leo and enjoyed their small adventures together by the river.

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

  • 👋🍀👍Front desk self-assessment for luxury hotels – advanced luxury-level competencies (front desk) (A2+/B1, text only, part 16/16)👍🍀👋

    Advanced Luxury-Level Competencies

    1. Reading guest personalities quickly

    You notice how a guest behaves when they arrive.

    • Some guests speak fast and ask many questions → they want quick answers
    • Some guests are quiet and look around → they may want space
    • Some guests smile a lot → they are open and friendly
    • Some guests look serious → they want simple and clear service

    Examples:

    • A guest arrives and looks at their phone often → you give short answers and fast check-in
    • A guest stands close and asks many details → you explain everything step by step
    • A guest looks tired → you speak slowly and keep things easy

    2. Managing VIP expectations effortlessly

    VIP guests expect more care and smooth service.

    • You remember their name quickly
    • You prepare things before they ask
    • You do not make them wait
    • You solve small problems before they notice

    Examples:

    • VIP arrives → room key is ready, no waiting
    • VIP asks for water → it is already in the room
    • VIP wants late checkout → you check and confirm fast
    • VIP returns → you greet them by name

    3. Delivering “silent luxury” service

    You help guests without making it feel big or loud.

    • You act calm and simple
    • You do not talk too much
    • You solve problems quietly
    • You make everything feel smooth

    Examples:

    • Guest has a booking issue → you fix it without long discussion
    • Luggage is carried to room without delay
    • Guest gets help without needing to ask twice
    • Everything looks easy and natural

    4. Knowing when to engage and when to step back

    You understand when to talk and when to stay quiet.

    • Some guests want conversation
    • Some guests want silence
    • You observe and adjust

    Examples:

    • Guest starts talking → you respond friendly
    • Guest gives short answers → you stop extra talking
    • Guest looks busy → you only give needed information
    • Guest smiles and stays → you continue light talk

    5. Building emotional loyalty

    Guests remember how you made them feel.

    • You are kind and steady
    • You remember small guest details
    • You show respect every time
    • You make guests feel welcome

    Examples:

    • Guest returns → you remember their last stay
    • Guest has birthday → you say a simple greeting
    • Guest had a problem before → you say “welcome back, happy to see you again”
    • Guest feels safe and known

    6. Creating memorable moments subtly

    You make small moments feel special.

    • Small actions, big feeling
    • No need for big shows
    • Timing is important

    Examples:

    • Free upgrade when possible, without announcement
    • A small welcome note in the room
    • Remembering guest coffee preference
    • Quick surprise help when guest is stressed

    7. Maintaining authority gracefully

    You stay in control but stay kind.

    • You are clear and calm
    • You do not argue
    • You guide guests in a polite way

    Examples:

    • Guest is upset → you speak calm and explain solution
    • Guest wants impossible request → you say no in a polite way
    • Guest breaks rule → you explain rule clearly, no anger
    • You stay confident in all answers

    8. Operating flawlessly under pressure

    You stay stable when it is busy.

    • You do not panic
    • You work step by step
    • You stay focused
    • You keep service quality high

    Examples:

    • Many guests arrive at same time → you process one by one calmly
    • System is slow → you keep smiling and explain delay
    • Phone rings many times → you answer in order
    • Queue gets long → you stay steady and organized

    9. Making difficult situations feel effortless

    You handle problems in a simple way for guests.

    • You do not show stress
    • You find fast solutions
    • You keep guests relaxed

    Examples:

    • Room not ready → you offer waiting area and drink
    • Booking error → you fix it without long talk
    • Lost key → you replace quickly
    • Complaint → you solve first, explain later

    10. Representing the hotel brand at all times

    You are the image of the hotel.

    • You act polite in every situation
    • You speak clearly and respectfully
    • You dress and behave professionally
    • You show hotel values in every action

    Examples:

    • Even when tired → you still greet guests warmly
    • Even when busy → you stay polite
    • Even outside front desk → you help guests if needed
    • You always protect hotel reputation

  • 👋🍀👍Front desk self-assessment for luxury hotels – red flag behaviors (negative indicators) (A2+/B1, text only, part 15/16)👍🍀👋

    Behaviors to Avoid in Guest Service Situations

    These are behaviors that can create a bad guest experience. Each point below includes simple explanations and clear examples.


    1. Eye Rolling

    Meaning:
    Showing disrespect with facial expression.

    Why it is bad:
    It makes guests feel unimportant.

    Bad example:
    A guest asks for help. The staff rolls their eyes and sighs.

    Better behavior:
    Keep a neutral face and listen carefully.


    2. Defensive Tone

    Meaning:
    Speaking in a way that sounds like you are attacking back.

    Why it is bad:
    It increases conflict.

    Bad example:
    Guest: “This is wrong.”
    Staff: “No, I did it correctly!”

    Better behavior:
    “Let me check this for you.”


    3. Interrupting Guests

    Meaning:
    Speaking before the guest finishes.

    Why it is bad:
    It shows disrespect.

    Bad example:
    Guest is explaining a problem. Staff stops them mid-sentence.

    Better behavior:
    Wait until the guest finishes speaking.


    4. Visible Frustration

    Meaning:
    Showing anger or stress with face or body.

    Why it is bad:
    Guests feel uncomfortable.

    Bad example:
    Staff shows a stressed face and walks away quickly.

    Better behavior:
    Stay calm and speak slowly.


    5. Gossiping

    Meaning:
    Talking about other staff or guests in a negative way.

    Why it is bad:
    It creates a toxic environment.

    Bad example:
    Staff talks about a guest’s behavior to other guests.

    Better behavior:
    Speak only about work tasks and stay professional.


    6. Blaming Colleagues

    Meaning:
    Saying it is another staff member’s fault in front of guests.

    Why it is bad:
    It looks unprofessional.

    Bad example:
    “This is not my fault, it was my colleague.”

    Better behavior:
    “I will fix this for you.”


    7. Robotic Interactions

    Meaning:
    Speaking without warmth or natural tone.

    Why it is bad:
    Guests feel ignored.

    Bad example:
    “Hello. What do you want. Thank you.”

    Better behavior:
    “Hello, how can I help you today?”


    8. Ignoring Waiting Guests

    Meaning:
    Not noticing guests who are waiting.

    Why it is bad:
    It makes guests feel invisible.

    Bad example:
    A guest stands at the counter, staff continues other tasks without acknowledgment.

    Better behavior:
    “I will be with you in a moment, thank you for waiting.”


    9. Poor Posture

    Meaning:
    Standing or sitting in a careless way.

    Why it is bad:
    It looks unprofessional.

    Bad example:
    Slouching at the desk or leaning on walls.

    Better behavior:
    Stand straight and stay attentive.


    10. Over-Familiarity

    Meaning:
    Being too casual with guests.

    Why it is bad:
    It reduces respect.

    Bad example:
    Calling a guest “buddy” or making personal jokes.

    Better behavior:
    Use polite and respectful language.


    11. Arguing with Guests

    Meaning:
    Trying to win a discussion with a guest.

    Why it is bad:
    It damages trust.

    Bad example:
    “No, you are wrong. That is not true.”

    Better behavior:
    “I understand your concern. Let me help.”


    12. Complaining Openly

    Meaning:
    Talking about problems in front of guests.

    Why it is bad:
    It creates a negative mood.

    Bad example:
    “This place is so busy and stressful today.”

    Better behavior:
    Stay calm and professional in front of guests.


    13. Using Slang Excessively

    Meaning:
    Using informal or unclear words too much.

    Why it is bad:
    Guests may not understand.

    Bad example:
    “Yeah, that’s chill, we’ll sort it later, no stress.”

    Better behavior:
    “We will solve this for you soon.”


    14. Lack of Urgency

    Meaning:
    Not acting quickly when needed.

    Why it is bad:
    Guests wait too long.

    Bad example:
    Slow response to a guest problem without priority.

    Better behavior:
    Act quickly and say: “I will help you right away.”


    15. Forgetting Guest Details Repeatedly

    Meaning:
    Not remembering important guest information.

    Why it is bad:
    Guests feel not valued.

    Bad example:
    Guest repeats their request many times.

    Better behavior:
    Write notes and confirm details.


    16. Poor Follow-Up

    Meaning:
    Not checking back after solving a problem.

    Why it is bad:
    Guests may feel ignored.

    Bad example:
    Problem is “solved,” but no one checks if guest is satisfied.

    Better behavior:
    “Is everything okay now?”


    17. Multitasking While Guests Are Speaking

    Meaning:
    Doing other tasks while listening.

    Why it is bad:
    It shows lack of attention.

    Bad example:
    Staff types on a computer while guest is talking.

    Better behavior:
    Stop and listen fully to the guest.


    18. Lack of Discretion

    Meaning:
    Sharing private or sensitive information.

    Why it is bad:
    It breaks trust and privacy.

    Bad example:
    Talking about a guest’s booking details in public.

    Better behavior:
    Keep all guest information private and secure.


  • 👋🍀👍Front desk self-assessment for luxury hotels – high-end guest experience behaviors (A2+/B1, text only, part 14/16)👍🍀👋

    Signature Luxury Behaviors

    These are key ways staff in luxury places treat guests. The goal is to make guests feel calm, happy, and cared for.


    1. Anticipating needs before being asked

    This means staff see what the guest may need before the guest asks.

    Examples:

    • A guest looks at the menu for a long time. The staff brings water without being asked.
    • It is cold outside. The staff offers a warm blanket before the guest says anything.
    • A guest has many bags. A staff member brings a trolley before the guest asks for help.
    • A guest finishes a drink. The staff asks if they want another one at the right time.

    2. Making every guest feel recognized

    This means guests feel seen and important, not like strangers.

    Examples:

    • The staff says: “Welcome back” when the guest returns.
    • The staff uses the guest’s name in a friendly way.
    • The staff remembers the guest from last time and smiles warmly.
    • The staff asks how the guest’s last stay was.

    3. Remaining invisible when appropriate

    This means staff help without disturbing the guest.

    Examples:

    • The staff cleans the room while the guest is at breakfast.
    • The staff refills water quietly during dinner without stopping the conversation.
    • The staff walks away after placing food so the guest can enjoy the moment.
    • The staff fixes something in the room while the guest is out.

    4. Remembering preferences across stays

    This means the staff remembers what the guest likes from past visits.

    Examples:

    • A guest likes extra pillows. The room already has them next time.
    • A guest drinks tea without sugar. The tea comes the same way again.
    • A guest likes a quiet room. The hotel gives a quiet room without asking.
    • A guest likes a window seat. The staff saves it if possible.

    5. Creating seamless experiences

    This means everything feels smooth and easy for the guest.

    Examples:

    • Check-in is ready when the guest arrives. No long waiting.
    • Luggage is already in the room when the guest enters.
    • The guest does not need to repeat information to different staff.
    • Payment is already prepared and fast at check-out.

    6. Handling complaints with elegance

    This means dealing with problems in a calm and respectful way.

    Examples:

    • A guest says the room is too noisy. The staff quickly moves them to a quiet room.
    • A meal is not correct. The staff replaces it without arguing.
    • The staff listens fully before speaking.
    • The staff says sorry in a calm and honest way.

    7. Turning problems into positive memories

    This means fixing problems in a way that makes the guest feel even better than before.

    Examples:

    • A delay happens, so the hotel offers a free dessert.
    • A broken room item is fixed, and the guest gets a small gift.
    • A wrong order becomes a chance to give a better dish.
    • A waiting time becomes a friendly conversation and free drink.

    8. Delivering personalized touches

    This means small actions that match the guest as a person.

    Examples:

    • A guest loves chocolate. A small chocolate is placed in the room.
    • A guest is celebrating a birthday. The staff brings a small cake.
    • A guest is traveling for work. The desk has extra light and space.
    • A child guest gets a small toy in the room.

    9. Balancing efficiency with warmth

    This means doing work fast, but still being kind and friendly.

    Examples:

    • The staff brings food quickly but still smiles and talks kindly.
    • Check-in is fast, but the guest still feels welcome.
    • The staff answers questions quickly, but does not rush the guest.
    • Cleaning is fast, but the room still feels cared for.

    10. Showing confidence without stiffness

    This means staff are sure and calm, but not cold or strict.

    Examples:

    • The staff speaks clearly and calmly with a smile.
    • The staff handles a problem without panic.
    • The staff gives clear answers without long confusion.
    • The staff stands straight and professional, but still friendly.

  • 👋🍀👍Front desk self-assessment for luxury hotels – ethical standards & trustworthiness (A2+/B1, text only, part 13/16)👍🍀👋

    This section explains how hotel staff should behave in a correct, honest, and responsible way. It also shows clear examples from daily work.


    1. Core Qualities

    These are the main personal qualities that every hotel worker should show every day.


    1.1 Integrity

    Integrity means doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching.

    Examples:

    • A guest leaves money in the room. You do not take it. You report it to your supervisor.
    • You find a lost phone. You give it to the front desk, not keep it.
    • You do not change booking details for friends without permission.

    1.2 Honesty

    Honesty means telling the truth at all times.

    Examples:

    • If you make a mistake in a booking, you say it immediately.
    • If a guest asks about a service you do not know, you do not guess. You check and then answer.
    • If cash is missing, you report it honestly, not hide it.

    1.3 Confidentiality

    Confidentiality means keeping guest information private.

    Examples:

    • You do not tell other guests about someone’s room number.
    • You do not share guest phone numbers or emails.
    • You do not talk about VIP guests outside your work area.

    1.4 Responsibility

    Responsibility means doing your job carefully and on time.

    Examples:

    • You check rooms properly before marking them as clean.
    • You arrive on time for your shift.
    • You complete tasks without needing constant reminders.

    1.5 Ethical Judgment

    Ethical judgment means choosing what is right in difficult situations.

    Examples:

    • A friend asks for a free room upgrade. You refuse because rules must be followed.
    • A guest tries to skip payment. You stay calm and follow procedure.
    • You see unfair behavior. You report it instead of ignoring it.

    2. Observable Behaviors

    These are actions that others can clearly see in your work.


    2.1 Protects Guest Information

    You keep all guest details safe.

    Examples:

    • You do not leave printed guest lists on open desks.
    • You lock the computer when you leave the reception.
    • You do not talk about guest details in public areas.

    2.2 Handles Payments Responsibly

    You manage money and payments in a careful way.

    Examples:

    • You always give correct change.
    • You check payments twice before confirming.
    • You do not use hotel money for personal use.

    2.3 Reports Mistakes Honestly

    You do not hide errors. You report them quickly.

    Examples:

    • You charge a guest the wrong amount and tell your manager immediately.
    • You forget a guest request and correct it as soon as possible.
    • You break something in a room and report it, not hide it.

    2.4 Avoids Favoritism

    You treat all guests and colleagues in the same fair way.

    Examples:

    • You do not give better service only to friends or special guests.
    • You follow the same rules for all guests.
    • You give equal attention to all complaints.

    2.5 Respects Hotel Policies

    You follow all hotel rules without ignoring them.

    Examples:

    • You do not give room access without correct ID.
    • You follow dress code rules.
    • You respect check-in and check-out times.

    2.6 Maintains Professional Boundaries

    You keep a respectful distance between work and personal life.

    Examples:

    • You do not share personal social media with guests.
    • You do not accept personal invitations from guests during work.
    • You stay polite but do not become too personal with guests.

    Summary

    Ethical standards in hotels mean:

    • Doing the right thing
    • Being honest
    • Keeping information safe
    • Working responsibly
    • Treating everyone fairly

    These actions build trust between guests, staff, and the hotel.