Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Tet, or Tết Nguyên Đán, is the Vietnamese New Year. It is the most important holiday in Vietnam. Tet usually happens in January or February. The date changes every year because it follows the lunar calendar.

Before Tet, people clean their houses. They want to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year. Families also decorate their homes with flowers and small trees. In the north of Vietnam, people like pink peach flowers. In the south, people often buy yellow apricot flowers. Many homes have a kumquat tree with small orange fruits.

During Tet, families cook special food. They make bánh chưng or bánh tét. This food is made of sticky rice, meat, and beans. People also eat chicken, soup, and sweet snacks. Children get lucky money in red envelopes. This money brings good luck for the new year.

On New Year’s Eve, families have a big dinner together. They watch fireworks and say “Happy New Year.” In the first days of Tet, people visit family and friends. They give good wishes for health, happiness, and success.

Tet is a happy time for family, food, and new beginnings.

_____________________

Vocabularry:

Here are the definitions in simple A1 English:

• to be important – to be very special or have great value
• usually – most of the time
• a date – a day in the calendar
• to change – to become different
• to follow – to use or go after something
• a lunar calendar – a calendar based on the moon
• to clean – to make something not dirty
• to decorate – to make something look nice
• a peach flower – a pink flower from a peach tree
• an apricot flower – a yellow flower from an apricot tree
• beans – small seeds that people cook and eat
• sweet snacks – small sweet food like candy or cakes
• to get lucky money – to receive money for good luck
• an envelope – a paper cover for a letter or money
• to bring good luck – to give good things or good fortune
• a firework – colorful light in the sky at night
• health – feeling good and not sick
• success – doing well and reaching your goals
• a new beginning – the start of something new

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Match definition to word exercise:

Definitions

1. To become different
2. Feeling good and not sick
3. To make something not dirty
4. A paper cover for a letter or money
5. A pink flower from a peach tree
6. To use or go after something
7. A day in the calendar
8. Small sweet food like candy or cakes
9. Most of the time
10. To make something look nice
11. Doing well and reaching your goals
12. To give good things or good fortune
13. To be very special or have great value
14. Colorful light in the sky at night
15. A yellow flower from an apricot tree
16. A calendar based on the moon
17. To receive money for good luck
18. The start of something new

Words

A. sweet snacks
B. a peach flower
C. a date
D. to clean
E. success
F. a lunar calendar
G. an apricot flower
H. to bring good luck
I. an envelope
J. to follow
K. usually
L. to get lucky money
M. a firework
N. to decorate
O. a new beginning
P. to change
Q. to be important
R. health

___________________

Answers

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

__________________

Full version:

1. To become different – means to change
2. Feeling good and not sick – means health
3. To make something not dirty – means to clean
4. A paper cover for a letter or money – means an envelope
5. A pink flower from a peach tree – means a peach flower
6. To use or go after something – means to follow
7. A day in the calendar – means a date
8. Small sweet food like candy or cakes – means sweet snacks
9. Most of the time – means usually
10. To make something look nice – means to decorate
11. Doing well and reaching your goals – means success
12. To give good things or good fortune – means to bring good luck
13. To be very special or have great value – means to be important
14. Colorful light in the sky at night – means a firework
15. A yellow flower from an apricot tree – means an apricot flower
16. A calendar based on the moon – means a lunar calendar
17. To receive money for good luck – means to get lucky money
18. The start of something new – means a new beginning
19. Words – means letters

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Match the Words

Words

1. Tet
2. Lucky money
3. Firework
4. Peach flower
5. Apricot flower
6. Bánh chưng
7. Bánh tét
8. Family
9. Decorate
10. Visit
11. Health
12. New beginning
13. Clean
14. Sweet snacks

Definitions

A. To make something not dirty
B. A pink flower from a tree
C. Children get this in red envelopes
D. The start of something new
E. A yellow flower from a tree
F. A special rice cake from the north
G. A special rice cake from the south
H. To go to see someone
I. The most important holiday in Vietnam
J. Colorful light in the sky at night
K. People you love and live with
L. To make something look nice
M. Small sweet food like candy or cakes
N. Feeling good and not sick

____________________

Answers:

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

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

Fill in, words below:

sweet snacks – follows – peach – rice – success –
decorate – flowers – fireworks – clean –
kumquat tree – important –
lucky money – beans –
change – apricot –
good luck

1. Tet is the most __________ holiday in Vietnam.
2. The date of Tet can __________ every year.
3. Tet __________ the lunar calendar.
4. People __________ their houses before Tet.
5. Families __________ their homes with __________ and small trees.
6. In the north, people like __________ flowers.
7. In the south, people buy __________ flowers.
8. Many homes have a __________ with small orange fruits.
9. Families cook bánh chưng or bánh tét with __________, meat, and __________.
10. People eat __________ during Tet.
11. Children get__________ in a red envelope.
12. Lucky money can bring __________ for the new year.
13. Families watch __________ and wish for health, __________, and a new beginning.

________________________

Correct version:

1. Tet is the most important holiday in Vietnam.
2. The date of Tet can change every year.
3. Tet follows the lunar calendar.
4. People clean their houses before Tet.
5. Families decorate their homes with flowers and small trees.
6. In the north, people like peach flowers.
7. In the south, people buy apricot flowers.
8. Many homes have a kumquat tree with small orange fruits.
9. Families cook bánh chưng or bánh tét with rice, meat, and beans.
10. People eat sweet snacks during Tet.
11. Children get lucky money in a red envelope.
12. Lucky money can bring good luck for the new year.
13. Families watch fireworks and wish for health, success, and a new beginning.

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

True or false:

1. Families usually ignore flowers and decorations.
2. Tet follows the lunar calendar.
3. Children get candy in yellow envelopes.
4. People visit family and friends during the first days of Tet.
5. Tet is celebrated in December.
6. Peach flowers are popular in the south of Vietnam.
7. Lucky money can bring good luck for the new year.
8. People watch fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
9. Tet always happens on February 17.
10. Families cook bánh chưng or bánh tét for Tet.
11. Tet is the most important holiday in Vietnam.
12. Children get lucky money in red envelopes.
13. People clean their houses before Tet.
14. Families eat pizza during Tet.
15. Many homes have kumquat trees with small orange fruits.
16. Tet is not an important holiday in Vietnam.

________________________

True: 2,4,7,10,11,12,13,15

________________________

Correct version:

1. Families usually ignore flowers and decorations. True is: Families decorate their homes with flowers and trees.
2. Tet follows the lunar calendar.
3. Children get candy in yellow envelopes. True is: Children get lucky money in red envelopes.
4. People visit family and friends during the first days of Tet.
5. Tet is celebrated in December. True is: Tet is celebrated in January or February.
6. Peach flowers are popular in the south of Vietnam. True is: Peach flowers are popular in the north of Vietnam.
7. Lucky money can bring good luck for the new year.
8. People watch fireworks on New Year’s Eve. True is: Families watch fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
9. Tet always happens on February 17. True is: The date of Tet changes every year.
10. Families cook bánh chưng or bánh tét for Tet.
11. Tet is the most important holiday in Vietnam.
12. Children get lucky money in red envelopes.
13. People clean their houses before Tet.
14. Families eat pizza during Tet. True is: Families eat special food like bánh chưng, bánh tét, and sweet snacks.
15. Many homes have kumquat trees with small orange fruits.
16. Tet is not an important holiday in Vietnam. True is: Tet is the most important holiday in Vietnam.

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Match the questions to the answers

Questions :

1. What is Tet?
   
   YOU WRITE:
   (i) Tet is the Vietnamese New Year.
   
2. Why is Tet important?
   ___________________________
3. When does Tet usually happen?
   ___________________________
4. Which calendar does Tet follow?
   ___________________________
5. Who cleans the house before Tet?
   ___________________________
6. What flowers do people buy in the north?
   ___________________________
7. What flowers do people buy in the south?
   ___________________________
8. Where do families put the kumquat tree?
   ___________________________
9. Which food do families cook for Tet?
   ___________________________
10. Who gets lucky money?
    ___________________________
11. How does lucky money help?
    ___________________________
12. What do families do on New Year’s Eve?
    ___________________________
13. Who do people visit during Tet?
    ___________________________
14. What is your favorite part of Tet?
    ___________________________

———————————-

Answers:

a. People visit family and friends.
b. Families put the kumquat tree in their homes.
c. Lucky money brings good luck for the new year.
d. Tet is important because it is the most special holiday in Vietnam.
e. Families have a big dinner and watch fireworks.
f. Children get lucky money in red envelopes.
g. I like giving lucky money and eating bánh chưng with my family.
h. Tet follows the lunar calendar.
i. Tet is the Vietnamese New Year.
j. Families cook bánh chưng or bánh tét.
k. People buy apricot flowers in the south.
l. People buy peach flowers in the north.
m. Tet usually happens in January or February.
n. All family members clean the house before Tet.

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

1. Q: What is Tet?
A: Tet is the Vietnamese New Year.

2. Q: Why is Tet important?
A: Tet is important because it is the most special holiday in Vietnam.

3. Q: When does Tet usually happen?
A: Tet usually happens in January or February.

4. Q: Which calendar does Tet follow?
A: Tet follows the lunar calendar.

5. Q: Who cleans the house before Tet?
A: All family members clean the house before Tet.

6. Q: What flowers do people buy in the north?
A: People buy peach flowers in the north.

7. Q: What flowers do people buy in the south?
A: People buy apricot flowers in the south.

8. Q: Where do families put the kumquat tree?
A: Families put the kumquat tree in their homes.

9. Q: Which food do families cook for Tet?
A: Families cook bánh chưng or bánh tét.

10. Q: Who gets lucky money?
A: Children get lucky money in red envelopes.

11. Q: How does lucky money help?
A: Lucky money brings good luck for the new year.

12. Q: What do families do on New Year’s Eve?
A: Families have a big dinner and watch fireworks.

13. Q: Who do people visit during Tet?
A: People visit family and friends.

14. Q: What is your favorite part of Tet?
A: I like giving lucky money and eating bánh chưng with my family.

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

Unscramble – which phrase are we looking for?

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How to create a top first impression at hotel

1. Your look and body language

Before you speak, the guest already feels something.

Do this:

• Wear a clean uniform
• Hair neat, light perfume
• Stand straight
• Smile gently
• Look at the guest, not at the computer

A calm and clean look = luxury.
__________________________

1. Look and body language

The first impression starts before speaking. A receptionist must look clean, neat, and professional at all times. Good posture shows confidence and respect. A gentle smile makes guests feel welcome and safe. Eye contact is very important because it shows attention and care. The receptionist should avoid looking tired or busy. Calm body language helps the guest feel relaxed. In a five-star hotel, quiet and elegant movements create a feeling of luxury and trust.

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2. When the guest arrives

When you see the guest:

• Stop typing
• Look at them
• Smile
• Welcome them

Say slowly and clearly:

“Good afternoon. Welcome to [Hotel Name].”

or

“Good evening. Welcome to [Hotel Name].”

Your voice should be:

• Calm
• Warm
• Not fast
  __________________________

2. Guest arrival

When a guest arrives, the receptionist should give full attention immediately. Stopping other work shows respect and importance. A calm and friendly attitude helps the guest feel comfortable. The welcome should be clear and warm, not rushed. The first seconds are very important because guests form opinions quickly. A smooth and polite arrival experience sets the mood for the whole stay. In a luxury hotel, the arrival should feel organized, peaceful, and professional.

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3. Use the guest’s name (very important)

If you know the guest’s name, use it.

Example:

“Welcome to [Hotel Name], Mr. Johnson.”

This makes the guest feel:

• Important
• Respected
• Comfortable

In a 5-star hotel, names are very powerful.

______________________

3. Using the guest’s name

Using the guest’s name creates a strong personal connection. It shows care, respect, and good service. Guests feel recognized and valued when their name is used correctly. This small action can make a big difference in their experience. It also shows that the hotel is well prepared. In a five-star hotel, personal service is very important. Remembering and using names helps build trust and makes the guest feel special and welcome.

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4. Speak politely and simply

Use polite and soft words.

Instead of:

“Passport.”

Say:

“May I please have your passport?”

Instead of:

“Wait.”

Say:

“One moment please.”

Smile when you speak. Guests can hear your smile.

________________________

4. Polite and simple language

Clear and polite language helps guests feel comfortable and understood. Simple words reduce confusion, especially for international travelers. A soft and respectful tone shows professionalism. The receptionist should avoid strong or short words that may sound rude. Polite language creates a positive atmosphere at the front desk. In luxury service, the way something is said is as important as the message. Good language skills show high standards and care.

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5. Make the guest feel safe and relaxed

Many guests are:

• Tired
• Hot
• New to Cambodia

Help them feel relaxed.

You can say:

“Please allow me to assist you with your check-in.”

“You may relax. I will take care of everything.”

If possible:

• Offer water
• Offer a seat

_______________________

5. Making the guest feel relaxed

Many guests arrive tired from long travel. A good receptionist helps them feel calm and supported. Kind behavior and patience reduce stress. Offering help and showing understanding make the guest feel safe. When guests feel relaxed, they trust the hotel more. A peaceful check-in experience is very important in a five-star hotel. The goal is to let the guest feel cared for and free from worry from the first moment.

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

6. Explain what you are doing

Guests feel happy when they understand.

Example:

“I will check your reservation now.”

“This will take about two minutes.”

“After this, I will give you your room key.”

This makes the guest feel calm and confident.

____________________________

6. Explaining the process

Explaining each step of check-in helps guests feel confident. When guests know what is happening, they feel more comfortable. Clear information reduces waiting stress and confusion. The receptionist should explain the process in a simple and calm way. This shows organization and professionalism. In a luxury hotel, guests expect smooth and clear service. Good explanations show respect for the guest’s time and improve the overall experience.

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7. Be calm, even with difficult guests

In a 5-star hotel:

• Never argue
• Never show anger
• Never say “No” directly

Instead of:

“That is not possible.”

Say:

“Let me check what I can do for you.”

or

“Allow me to see the best solution.”

Your calm voice = luxury service.

____________________________

7. Staying calm with difficult guests

Some guests may feel upset or impatient. A professional receptionist stays calm and polite at all times. Showing understanding helps reduce tension. Arguing or showing anger damages the hotel’s image. A calm response shows confidence and control. In a five-star hotel, problems should be handled quietly and respectfully. The goal is to find a solution while keeping the guest comfortable and maintaining a high service standard.

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8. End the welcome in a warm way

Before the guest leaves the desk, say something kind.

Examples:

“If you need any help, please contact the front desk.”

“We wish you a pleasant stay with us.”

Smile again. Eye contact again.

The last feeling is as important as the first.

____________________________

8. Ending the welcome warmly

The end of the first interaction is very important. A warm and polite ending leaves a positive feeling. Guests should feel supported and confident after check-in. Clear guidance helps them know what to do next. A friendly attitude shows ongoing care. In a luxury hotel, the last moment at the desk should feel just as welcoming as the first. A good ending helps create a memorable and pleasant stay.

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Simple rule to remember

A 5-star first impression means:

• Calm
• Polite
• Clean
• Personal
• Never rushed

You are not only checking in a guest.
You are welcoming them to their experience.

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Oum is a nine-year-old girl. She lives in the countryside. Every day, she walks to her small village school. Oum loves her home. She wants to keep it clean and healthy.

At school, Oum learns about pollution. She decides to help the environment. She takes a reusable bag to the market with her mother. She does not use plastic bags. Oum also has a metal water bottle. She fills it with clean water from home. This way, she makes less plastic waste.

Oum teaches her friends to keep the village clean. They pick up litter and put it in bins. They also collect old paper and plastic for recycling. Oum explains why it is important to take care of the environment.

Oum loves nature. She plants trees and flowers near her home and school. The plants make the village beautiful and help clean the air. Her friends and neighbors see her work and want to help too.

Oum shows that small actions can make a big difference. Everyone can help the environment and keep their home clean and green.

_____________________

Vocabulary:

• pollution – dirt or waste in the air, water, or land that is bad for nature.
• a role model – a person you can look at and try to be like.
• countryside – land with fields, trees, and small villages, not a city.
• to be clean – not dirty.
• to be healthy – feeling good and strong, not sick.
• to decide – to choose something.
• environment – the land, water, air, plants, and animals around us.
• a reusable bag – a bag you can use many times, not throw away.
• a water bottle – a container for drinking water.
• less plastic waste – a smaller amount of plastic trash.
• to keep the village clean – to make sure the village is not dirty.
• to pick up litter – to take trash from the ground.
• a bin – a container for putting trash in.
• to collect – to bring things together in one place.
• to recycle – to use old things to make new things.
• a neighbor – a person who lives near you.
• to make a big difference – to change something in a very good way.

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

Match word to definition:

Words:

1. pollution
2. a role model
3. countryside
4. to be clean
5. to be healthy
6. to decide
7. environment
8. a reusable bag
9. a water bottle
10. less plastic waste
11. to keep the village clean
12. to pick up litter
13. a bin
14. to collect
15. to recycle
16. a neighbor
17. to make a big difference

Definitions:

a. to bring things together in one place
b. land with fields, trees, and small villages, not a city
c. a bag you can use many times, not throw away
d. dirt or waste in the air, water, or land that is bad for nature
e. feeling good and strong, not sick
f. a person who lives near you
g. a person you can look at and try to be like
h. to choose something
i. to change something in a very good way
j. a container for putting trash in
k. the land, water, air, plants, and animals around us
l. to make sure the village is not dirty
m. not dirty
n. a container for drinking water
o. a smaller amount of plastic trash
p. to use old things to make new things
q. to take trash from the ground

_______________________
Answers:

1-d, 2-g, 3-b, 4-m, 5-e, 6-h,
7-k, 8-c, 9-n, 10-o, 11-l, 12-q,
13-j, 14-a, 15-p, 16-f, 17-i

________________________

Correct version:

• pollution – dirt or waste in the air, water, or land that is bad for nature
• a role model – a person you can look at and try to be like
• countryside – land with fields, trees, and small villages, not a city
• to be clean – not dirty
• to be healthy – feeling good and strong, not sick
• to decide – to choose something
• environment – the land, water, air, plants, and animals around us
• a reusable bag – a bag you can use many times, not throw away
• a water bottle – a container for drinking water
• less plastic waste – a smaller amount of plastic trash
• to keep the village clean – to make sure the village is not dirty
• to pick up litter – to take trash from the ground
• a bin – a container for putting trash in
• to collect – to bring things together in one place
• to recycle – to use old things to make new things
• a neighbor – a person who lives near you
• to make a big difference – to change something in a very good way

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

Find the word/s:

1. dirt or waste in the air, water, or land that is bad for nature – ________
2. a person you can look at and try to be like – ________
3. land with fields, trees, and small villages, not a city – ________
4. not dirty – ________
5. feeling good and strong, not sick – ________
6. to choose something – ________
7. the land, water, air, plants, and animals around us – ________
8. a bag you can use many times, not throw away – ________
9. a container for drinking water – ________
10. a smaller amount of plastic trash – ________
11. to make sure the village is not dirty – ________
12. to take trash from the ground – ________
13. a container for putting trash in – ________
14. to bring things together in one place – ________
15. to use old things to make new things – ________
16. a person who lives near you – ________
17. to change something in a very good way – ________

Answer Key

1. pollution
2. a role model
3. countryside
4. to be clean
5. to be healthy
6. to decide
7. environment
8. a reusable bag
9. a water bottle
10. less plastic waste
11. to keep the village clean
12. to pick up litter
13. a bin
14. to collect
15. to recycle
16. a neighbor
17. to make a big difference

_____________________

Correct answers:

• dirt or waste in the air, water, or land that is bad for nature – pollution
• a person you can look at and try to be like – a role model
• land with fields, trees, and small villages, not a city – countryside
• not dirty – to be clean
• feeling good and strong, not sick – to be healthy
• to choose something – to decide
• the land, water, air, plants, and animals around us – environment
• a bag you can use many times, not throw away – a reusable bag
• a container for drinking water – a water bottle
• a smaller amount of plastic trash – less plastic waste
• to make sure the village is not dirty – to keep the village clean
• to take trash from the ground – to pick up litter
• a container for putting trash in – a bin
• to bring things together in one place – to collect
• to use old things to make new things – to recycle
• a person who lives near you – a neighbor
• to change something in a very good way – to make a big difference

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

Match action and result:

_________________________

Answers:
1-c, 2-g, 3-e, 4-f, 5-d, 6-h, 7-a, 8-b

_________________________

Correct version:

1. Oum uses a reusable bag at the market, which helps reduce plastic waste.
2. Oum fills her metal water bottle, so she does not need single-use plastic bottles.
3. Oum and friends pick up litter, which keeps the village clean.
4. Oum plants trees and flowers, which makes the village beautiful and cleans the air.
5. Oum collects old paper and plastic, so it can be used to make new things.
6. Oum teaches friends about pollution, which helps them understand why the environment is important.
7. Oum walks to school every day, which helps her stay healthy and enjoy nature.
8. Oum encourages neighbors to help, which shows that small actions can make a big difference.

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

Fill in, words below:

bags – healthy – village – flowers – old –
help – litter – countryside –
difference – pollution – loves –
collect – clean –
reusable

1. Oum is nine years __________.
2. She lives in the __________ of Cambodia.
3. Every day, Oum walks to her small __________ school.
4. Oum __________ her home.
5. She wants to keep her home clean and ___________.
6. At school, Oum learns about __________
7. She decides to __________ the environment.
8. Oum takes a __________ bag to the market with her mother.
9. She does not use plastic __________.
10. Oum fills her metal water bottle with __________ water from home.
11. Oum and her friends pick up __________ in the village.
12. They __________ old paper and plastic for recycling.
13. Oum plants trees and __________ near her home and school.
14. Her small actions help the environment and make a big __________.

——————————–
Correct version:

1. Oum is nine years old.
2. She lives in the countryside of Cambodia.
3. Every day, Oum walks to her small village school.
4. Oum loves her home.
5. She wants to keep her home clean and healthy.
6. At school, Oum learns about pollution.
7. She decides to help the environment.
8. Oum takes a reusable bag to the market with her mother.
9. She does not use plastic bags.
10. Oum fills her metal water bottle with clean water from home.
11. Oum and her friends pick up litter in the village.
12. They collect old paper and plastic for recycling.
13. Oum plants trees and flowers near her home and school.
14. Her small actions help the environment and make a big difference.

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

Words from the text, a bit mixed – which phrase are we looking for?

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

Match question and answer:

Questions:

1. Who are you?
2. Where do you live?
3. When do you go to school?
4. Why do you love your home?
5. What do you learn about at school?
6. Why do you decide to help the environment?
7. Who helps you in the village?
8. What do you take to the market with your mother?
9. What do you use for drinking water?
10. Why do you and your friends collect old paper and plastic?
11. Where do you plant trees and flowers?
12. How can small actions make a difference?

Answers (Randomized):
a. My friends and neighbors help me.
b. I learn about pollution.
c. I use a metal water bottle filled with clean water from home.
d. I take a reusable bag.
e. They can keep the environment clean and green, and everyone can help too.
f. I am a nine-year-old girl.
g. We collect it for recycling.
h. I love it because I want to keep it clean and healthy.
i. I plant them near my home and school.
j. I live in the countryside.
k. I go to my small village school every day.
l. I want to protect nature and make my home clean.

_______________________

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

_______________________

Full version:

Full Dialogue with Oum

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

Interviewer: Who are you?
Oum: I am a nine-year-old girl.

Interviewer: Where do you live?
Oum: I live in the countryside.

Interviewer: When do you go to school?
Oum: I go to my small village school every day.

Interviewer: Why do you love your home?
Oum: I love it because I want to keep it clean and healthy.

Interviewer: What do you learn about at school?
Oum: I learn about pollution.

Interviewer: Why do you decide to help the environment?
Oum: I want to protect nature and make my home clean.

Interviewer: Who helps you in the village?
Oum: My friends and neighbors help me.

Interviewer: What do you take to the market with your mother?
Oum: I take a reusable bag.

Interviewer: What do you use for drinking water?
Oum: I use a metal water bottle filled with clean water from home.

Interviewer: Why do you and your friends collect old paper and plastic?
Oum: We collect it for recycling.

Interviewer: Where do you plant trees and flowers?
Oum: I plant them near my home and school.

Interviewer: How can small actions make a difference?
Oum: They can keep the environment clean and green, and everyone can help too.

Friday the 13th: History and Myths

Friday the 13th is a day many people think is unlucky. The fear of this day comes from old myths, religion, and history. First, the number 13 is considered unlucky in many cultures. In ancient times, 12 was seen as complete and perfect. For example, there are 12 months in a year, 12 signs of the zodiac, and 12 gods in some myths. The number 13 comes after 12, so it is often seen as extra or strange.

Second, Friday is also seen as unlucky in history. In Christian tradition, Jesus died on a Friday. Some stories also say that Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden on a Friday. Because of this, Fridays were sometimes considered unlucky days for important work or travel.

When the unlucky number 13 meets the unlucky day Friday, people started to think it was very unlucky. Over time, this idea spread in Europe and later in the United States. Books, newspapers, and stories helped make Friday the 13th famous as a day of bad luck.

Today, some people are careful on this day, even if it is only a superstition.

______________________

Vocabulary:

• intermediate – not easy, not very hard; in the middle level
• a myth – an old story that may not be true
• unlucky – something that brings bad luck
• a fear – a feeling of being afraid
• to be considered unlucky – people think it is unlucky
• ancient times – a long, long time ago
• the zodiac – 12 star signs used in astrology
• to be strange – unusual, different from normal
• Garden of Eden – the place in the Bible where Adam and Eve lived first
• travel – to go from one place to another
• over time – after a long time
• to spread – to go to more people or places
• to make Friday a day of bad luck – to make people think Friday is unlucky
• to be careful – to watch out, to be safe
• superstition – a belief that something can bring good or bad luck

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

Match the word to the correct definition

Words:

1. intermediate
2. a myth
3. unlucky
4. a fear
5. to be considered unlucky
6. ancient times
7. the zodiac
8. to be strange
9. Garden of Eden
10. travel
11. over time
12. to spread
13. to make Friday a day of bad luck
14. to be careful
15. superstition

Definitions:

A. A long, long time ago
B. People think it is unlucky
C. To go to more people or places
D. Unusual, different from normal
E. To go from one place to another
F. Not easy, not very hard; in the middle level
G. A feeling of being afraid
H. A belief that something can bring good or bad luck
I. To watch out, to be safe
J. An old story that may not be true
K. Something that brings bad luck
L. To make people think Friday is unlucky
M. The place in the Bible where Adam and Eve lived first
N. 12 star signs used in astrology
O. After a long time

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

_____________________

Correct answers:

1. intermediate – not easy, not very hard; in the middle level
2. a myth – an old story that may not be true
3. unlucky – something that brings bad luck
4. a fear – a feeling of being afraid
5. to be considered unlucky – people think it is unlucky
6. ancient times – a long, long time ago
7. the zodiac – 12 star signs used in astrology
8. to be strange – unusual, different from normal
9. Garden of Eden – the place in the Bible where Adam and Eve lived first
10. travel – to go from one place to another
11. over time – after a long time
12. to spread – to go to more people or places
13. to make Friday a day of bad luck – to make people think Friday is unlucky
14. to be careful – to watch out, to be safe
15. superstition – a belief that something can bring good or bad luck

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

Multiple choice, one answer only:

1. What is a superstition?
a) A fact
b) A rule
c) Believe in luck

2. What does “to be strange” mean?
a) Very normal
b) Unusual
c) Very happy

3. What does “over time” mean?
a) Right now
b) Yesterday
c) After some time

4. What does “to be considered unlucky” mean?
a) People think it is bad
b) People like it
c) People ignore it

5. What is the Garden of Eden?
a) A park
b) Bible place
c) A movie

6. What does “unlucky” mean?
a) Brings bad luck
b) Brings good luck
c) Brings no luck

7. What does “to make Friday a day of bad luck” mean?
a) Celebrate Friday
b) Eat on Friday
c) Make people think bad

8. What does “to be careful” mean?
a) Run fast
b) Sleep
c) Watch out

9. What are “ancient times”?
a) Right now
b) A long time ago
c) Last week

10. What is a myth?
a) An old story
b) A true story
c) A report

11. What does “travel” mean?
a) Stay at home
b) Go to a place
c) Go to sleep

12. What does “a fear” mean?
a) A happy feeling
b) A dream
c) Feeling afraid

13. What is the zodiac?
a) 12 months in a year
b) 12 star signs
c) 7 days in a week

14. What does “to spread” mean?
a) Hide it
b) Clean it
c) Go to more people

15. What does “intermediate” mean?
a) Not easy, not hard
b) Very easy
c) Very hard

_____________________

Correct answers:
1c, 2b, 3c, 4a, 5b, 6a,
7c, 8c, 9b, 10a, 11b,
12c, 13b, 14c, 15a
_____________________

Correct version:

1. What is a superstition? That means a belief in luck.
2. What does “to be strange” mean? That means unusual.
3. What does “over time” mean? That means after some time.
4. What does “to be considered unlucky” mean? That means people think it is bad.
5. What is the Garden of Eden? That means the place in the Bible where Adam and Eve lived.
6. What does “unlucky” mean? That means something brings bad luck.
7. What does “to make Friday a day of bad luck” mean? That means to make people think Friday is unlucky.
8. What does “to be careful” mean? That means to watch out.
9. What are “ancient times”? That means a long time ago.
10. What is a myth? That means an old story that may not be true.
11. What does “travel” mean? That means to go to a place.
12. What does “a fear” mean? That means a feeling of being afraid.
13. What is the zodiac? That means 12 star signs used in astrology.
14. What does “to spread” mean? That means to go to more people or places.
15. What does “intermediate” mean? That means not easy, not hard.

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

True or false:

1. The number 13 comes after 12.
2. Everyone believes Friday the 13th is unlucky.
3. Friday the 13th is considered unlucky by many people.
4. The number 13 comes before 12.
5. Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden on a Friday.
6. Friday is never considered unlucky.
7. There are 12 months in a year.
8. The fear of Friday the 13th comes only from books.
9. Jesus died on a Friday.
10. Some people are careful on Friday the 13th.
11. People in ancient times thought 12 was complete and perfect.
12. There are 7 months in a year.
13. Friday the 13th started in the United States first.
14. The number 13 was seen as perfect in ancient times.

________________________

Answers:

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

_______________________

Correct version:

1. The number 13 comes after 12.
2. Everyone believes Friday the 13th is unlucky. False. True is: Not everyone believes Friday the 13th is unlucky.
3. Friday the 13th is considered unlucky by many people.
4. The number 13 comes before 12. False. True is: The number 13 comes after 12.
5. Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden on a Friday.
6. Friday is never considered unlucky. False. True is: Friday is sometimes considered unlucky.
7. There are 12 months in a year.
8. The fear of Friday the 13th comes only from books. False. True is: The fear of Friday the 13th comes from myths, history, and religion.
9. Jesus died on a Friday.
10. Some people are careful on Friday the 13th.
11. People in ancient times thought 12 was complete and perfect.
12. There are 7 months in a year. False. True is: There are 12 months in a year.
13. Friday the 13th started in the United States first. False. True is: Friday the 13th started in Europe first.
14. The number 13 was seen as perfect in ancient times. False. True is: The number 12 was seen as complete and perfect in ancient times.

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

Fill in, words below:

number- complete – spread – activities –
unlucky – history – died – months –
over time – strange –
superstition –
stories

1. Friday the 13th is considered an __________ day by some people.
2. The number 13 is often thought to be __________.
3. In ancient times, people believed 12 was _________ and perfect.
4. There are twelve __________ in a year and twelve zodiac signs.
5. Friday is sometimes considered an unlucky day in ___________.
6. Jesus __________ on a Friday according to Christian tradition.
7. Some __________ say Adam and Eve left Eden on a Friday.
8. When the __________ 13 falls on a Friday, people worry.
9. __________, the idea of Friday the 13th spread in Europe.
10. Later, books and newspapers helped __________ the idea to America.
11. Today, some people are careful on Friday the 13th for __________.
12. Many people enjoy normal __________ even on this unlucky day.

————————————–

Correct version:

1. Friday the 13th is considered an unlucky day by some people.
2. The number 13 is often thought to be strange.
3. In ancient times, people believed 12 was complete and perfect.
4. There are twelve months in a year and twelve zodiac signs.
5. Friday is sometimes considered an unlucky day in history.
6. Jesus died on a Friday according to Christian tradition.
7. Some stories say Adam and Eve left Eden on a Friday.
8. When the number 13 falls on a Friday, people worry.
9. Over time, the idea of Friday the 13th spread in Europe.
10. Later, books and newspapers helped spread the idea to America.
11. Today, some people are careful on Friday the 13th for superstition.
12. Many people enjoy normal activities even on this unlucky day.

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

Complete, fill in, words below:

zodiac – activities – myths – afraid –
unlucky – bad luck – think –
people – leave –
countries – idea –
history

1. Q: Why is Friday the 13th considered unlucky?
A: Many people think it is unlucky because of old __________ and history.

2. Q: Is the number 13 always unlucky?
A: No, some people __________ it is normal or lucky.

3. Q: Why was the number 12 considered perfect?
A: People saw 12 as complete because of 12 months and 12 __________ signs.

4. Q: Where did the fear of Friday come from?
A: Friday was __________ in Christian tradition because Jesus died on that day.

5. Q: Did Adam and Eve__________ the Garden of Eden on a Friday?
A: Some stories say yes, so people thought Fridays were unlucky.

6. Q: When did people start thinking Friday the 13th was unlucky?
A: The __________ started in Europe a long time ago.

7. Q: Did the idea spread to other __________?
A: Yes, later it spread to the United States.

8. Q: How did books and newspapers affect this idea?
A: They helped make Friday the 13th famous as a day of __________.

9. Q: Do all people believe Friday the 13th is unlucky?
A: No, many __________ do not believe it and ignore it.

10. Q: Do people do anything special on Friday the 13th?
A: Some people are careful, but many do normal __________.

11. Q: Is Friday the 13th a new superstition?
A: No, it has old roots in myths, religion, and __________

12. Q: Can superstitions like Friday the 13th affect daily life?
A: Yes, some people may feel __________ or avoid doing certain things.

———————————
Correct version:

1. Q: Why is Friday the 13th considered unlucky?
A: Many people think it is unlucky because of old myths and history.

2. Q: Is the number 13 always unlucky?
A: No, some people think it is normal or lucky.

3. Q: Why was the number 12 considered perfect?
A: People saw 12 as complete because of 12 months and 12 zodiac signs.

4. Q: Where did the fear of Friday come from?
A: Friday was unlucky in Christian tradition because Jesus died on that day.

5. Q: Did Adam and Eve leave the Garden of Eden on a Friday?
A: Some stories say yes, so people thought Fridays were unlucky.

6. Q: When did people start thinking Friday the 13th was unlucky?
A: The idea started in Europe a long time ago.

7. Q: Did the idea spread to other countries?
A: Yes, later it spread to the United States.

8. Q: How did books and newspapers affect this idea?
A: They helped make Friday the 13th famous as a day of bad luck.

9. Q: Do all people believe Friday the 13th is unlucky?
A: No, many people do not believe it and ignore it.

10. Q: Do people do anything special on Friday the 13th?
A: Some people are careful, but many do normal activities.

11. Q: Is Friday the 13th a new superstition?
A: No, it has old roots in myths, religion, and history.

12. Q: Can superstitions like Friday the 13th affect daily life?
A: Yes, some people may feel afraid or avoid doing certain things.

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

Short answers, present simple, basics:

Short answers:

1. Are there 12 months in a year?
   
   YOU WRITE:
   Yes, there are.
   
2. Does Friday the 13th bring good luck to everyone?
   __________________
3. Do many people think Friday the 13th is unlucky?
   __________________
4. Does the idea start on the internet?
   __________________
5. Does Jesus die on a Friday in Christian belief?
   __________________
6. Is the number 13 unlucky in many cultures?
   __________________
7. Do people celebrate Friday the 13th with big parties?
   __________________
8. Do old stories and history explain the fear [to be afraid of something] ?
   __________________
9. Do ancient people see 13 as a perfect number?
   __________________
10. Do books and stories make Friday the 13th famous?
    __________________
11. Do Adam and Eve leave the garden on a Friday?
    __________________
12. Is Friday always lucky in history?
    __________________
13. Does the number 12 feel complete to many people?
    __________________
14. Do all people feel calm on Friday the 13th?
    __________________
15. Does the idea spread in Europe and the United States?
    __________________
16. Are there 13 months in a year?
    __________________
17. Is Friday important in Christian history?
    __________________
18. Do people think Friday the 13th is a superstition today?
    __________________
19. Does Jesus die on a Monday?
    __________________
20. Do newspapers help spread the idea?
    __________________

———————————–

Correct answers:

1. Are there 12 months in a year?
   → Yes, there are.
2. Does Friday the 13th bring good luck to everyone?
   → No, it doesn’t.
3. Do many people think Friday the 13th is unlucky?
   → Yes, they do.
4. Does the idea start on the internet?
   → No, it doesn’t.
5. Does Jesus die on a Friday in Christian belief?
   → Yes, he does.
6. Is the number 13 unlucky in many cultures?
   → Yes, it is.
7. Do people celebrate Friday the 13th with big parties?
   → No, they don’t.
8. Do old stories and history explain the fear?
   → Yes, they do.
9. Do ancient people see 13 as a perfect number?
   → No, they don’t.
10. Do books and stories make Friday the 13th famous?
    → Yes, they do.
11. Do Adam and Eve leave the garden on a Friday?
    → Yes, they do.
12. Is Friday always lucky in history?
    → No, it isn’t.
13. Does the number 12 feel complete to many people?
    → Yes, it does.
14. Do all people feel calm on Friday the 13th?
    → No, they don’t.
15. Does the idea spread in Europe and the United States?
    → Yes, it does.
16. Are there 13 months in a year?
    → No, there aren’t.
17. Is Friday important in Christian history?
    → Yes, it is.
18. Do people think Friday the 13th is a superstition today?
    → Yes, they do.
19. Does Jesus die on a Monday?
    → No, he doesn’t.
20. Do newspapers help spread the idea?
    → Yes, they do.

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

Short answers, past simple, basics:

Questions (Past Simple)

Was / Were

__________________________

Give short answers:

1. People celebrated Friday the 13th with parties.
   
   YOU WRITE:
   No, they didn’t.
   
2. The number 13 came after 12.
   ____________________________
3. The idea spread only in Asia.
   ____________________________
4. Some people were careful on Friday the 13th.
   ____________________________
5. Friday was always lucky in history.
   ____________________________
6. Many people thought Friday the 13th was unlucky.
   ____________________________
7. Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden on a Monday.
   ____________________________
8. Jesus died on a Friday.
   ____________________________
9. Old stories and history explained the fear.
   ____________________________
10. There were 13 months in a year.
    ____________________________
11. The number 12 was seen as complete.
    ____________________________
12. People used computers to start the idea.
    ____________________________
13. Friday the 13th was a happy day for everyone.
    ____________________________
14. The number 13 was unlucky in many cultures.
    ____________________________

————————————–
Correct answers:

1. People celebrated Friday the 13th with parties.
   → No, they didn’t.
2. The number 13 came after 12.
   → Yes, it did.
3. The idea spread only in Asia.
   → No, it didn’t.
4. Some people were careful on Friday the 13th.
   → Yes, they were.
5. Friday was always lucky in history.
   → No, it wasn’t.
6. Many people thought Friday the 13th was unlucky.
   → Yes, they did.
7. Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden on a Monday.
   → No, they didn’t.
8. Jesus died on a Friday.
   → Yes, he did.
9. Old stories and history explained the fear.
   → Yes, they did.
10. There were 13 months in a year.
    → No, there weren’t.
11. The number 12 was seen as complete.
    → Yes, it was.
12. People used computers to start the idea.
    → No, they didn’t.
13. Friday the 13th was a happy day for everyone.
    → No, it wasn’t.
14. The number 13 was unlucky in many cultures.
    → Yes, it was.

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

Provide short answers (present, past, mixed):

1. Many people think Friday the 13th is unlucky.
   
   YOU WRITE:
   Yes, they do.
   
2. The number 13 came before 12.
3. Friday is always lucky in history.
4. Some people are careful on Friday the 13th.
5. People celebrated Friday the 13th with parties.
6. The number 12 is seen as complete.
7. Jesus died on a Friday.
8. People use computers to start the idea.
9. The idea spreads only in Asia.
10. Old stories and history explain the fear.
11. Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden on a Monday.
12. The number 13 is unlucky in many cultures.
13. There are 13 months in a year.
14. Some people were careful on Friday the 13th.
15. Books and newspapers helped make Friday the 13th famous.
16. Friday the 13th was a happy day for everyone.
17. Many people thought Friday the 13th was unlucky.
18. The number 13 comes before 12.
19. Friday is an unlucky day in history.
20. People left the Garden of Eden on Friday.
21. People read 13 months in a year.
22. The number 12 was seen as perfect.
23. Jesus dies on Monday.
24. The idea spread in Europe.
25. Friday the 13th brings good luck.
26. The fear comes from old myths and history.
27. People thought it was only a superstition.
28. People fly on Friday the 13th.
29. The idea spread in the United States.
30. Books and newspapers start the idea.

________________________

Correct answers:

1. Many people think Friday the 13th is unlucky.
   → Yes, they do.
2. The number 13 came before 12.
   → No, it didn’t.
3. Friday is always lucky in history.
   → No, it isn’t.
4. Some people are careful on Friday the 13th.
   → Yes, they are.
5. People celebrated Friday the 13th with parties.
   → No, they didn’t.
6. The number 12 is seen as complete.
   → Yes, it is.
7. Jesus died on a Friday.
   → Yes, he did.
8. People use computers to start the idea.
   → No, they don’t.
9. The idea spreads only in Asia.
   → No, it doesn’t.
10. Old stories and history explain the fear.
    → Yes, they do.
11. Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden on a Monday.
    → No, they didn’t.
12. The number 13 is unlucky in many cultures.
    → Yes, it is.
13. There are 13 months in a year.
    → No, there aren’t.
14. Some people were careful on Friday the 13th.
    → Yes, they were.
15. Books and newspapers helped make Friday the 13th famous.
    → Yes, they did.
16. Friday the 13th was a happy day for everyone.
    → No, it wasn’t.
17. Many people thought Friday the 13th was unlucky.
    → Yes, they did.
18. The number 13 comes before 12.
    → No, it doesn’t.
19. Friday is an unlucky day in history.
    → Yes, it is.
20. People left the Garden of Eden on Friday.
    → Yes, they did.
21. People read 13 months in a year.
    → No, they don’t.
22. The number 12 was seen as perfect.
    → Yes, it was.
23. Jesus dies on Monday.
    → No, he doesn’t.
24. The idea spread in Europe.
    → Yes, it did.
25. Friday the 13th brings good luck.
    → No, it doesn’t.
26. The fear comes from old myths and history.
    → Yes, it does.
27. People thought it was only a superstition.
    → Yes, they did.
28. People fly on Friday the 13th.
    → No, they don’t.
29. The idea spread in the United States.
    → Yes, it did.
30. Books and newspapers start the idea.
    → No, they don’t.

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

Some useful information on past simple
and some more exercises, pieces of information

The History of Valentine’s Day

A long time ago, in Rome, there was a priest named Saint Valentine. He lived around the year 270 A.D. The emperor did not want young men to marry because he thought soldiers should stay single. But Saint Valentine helped people who loved each other. He married couples in secret.

The emperor found out and was very angry. He put Saint Valentine in prison. While he was in prison, Saint Valentine became friends with the jailer’s daughter. He wrote her a small note and signed it, “From your Valentine.” After some time, Saint Valentine was executed because of what he had done. This was the first Valentine’s card.

People remembered his kindness and bravery. They wanted to celebrate love and friendship. They chose February 14 to honor him.

Today, people in many countries give cards, flowers, and gifts. They remember Saint Valentine and his story of love and courage. Valentine’s Day is a special day to show love, just like Saint Valentine did.

_______________________

Vocabulary:

• a priest – a man who works in the church
• 270 A.D. – the year 270, a long time ago, after the birth of Jesus
• A.D. – it means “Anno Domini” in Latin; it counts the years after Jesus was born
• an emperor – the ruler of a country, like a king but in an empire
• to marry – to become husband and wife
• to stay single – to not have a husband or wife
• to marry a couple – to help a man and woman become husband and wife
• in secret – hidden, so other people do not know
• to be angry – to feel very bad or upset
• a prison – a place where people stay because they break the law
• a jailer – a person who looks after people in prison
• to sign something – to write your name on a paper
• to be executed – to be killed because of a law or punishment
• to remember – to not forget
• kindness – being nice and helpful to others
• bravery – being not afraid, being brave
• to celebrate – to do something special for an important day
• friendship – being friends with someone
• to choose – to pick one thing
• to honor somebody – to show respect and say thank you to someone
• a gift – something you give to someone to show love or thanks
• courage – the ability to be brave
• to show love – to do nice things for someone to tell them you love them

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

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

Match the word to its definition

Words:

1. a priest
2. 270 A.D.
3. an emperor
4. to marry
5. to stay single
6. in secret
7. a prison
8. a jailer
9. to sign something
10. to be executed
11. kindness
12. bravery
13. friendship
14. a gift
15. courage

Definitions :
a. hidden, so other people do not know
b. a man who works in the church
c. the ability to be brave
d. to write your name on something
e. to become husband and wife
f. a place where people stay because they break the law
g. being not afraid; being brave
h. a person who looks after people in prison
i. the year 270, a long time ago, after the birth of Jesus
j. something you give to someone to show love or thanks
k. to not be afraid to do something difficult
l. being nice and helpful to others
m. to be killed because of a law or punishment
n. being friends with someone
o. to not have a husband or wife

__________________

Answers:

1-b, 2-i, 3-d, 4-e, 5-o,
6-a, 7-f, 8-h, 9-d, 10-m,
11-l, 12-g, 13-n, 14-j, 15-c

_________________

Correct version:

1. a priest – That means: a man who works in the church
2. 270 A.D. – That means: the year 270, a long time ago, after the birth of Jesus
3. an emperor – That means: the ruler of a country, like a king but in an empire
4. to marry – That means: to become husband and wife
5. to stay single – That means: to not have a husband or wife
6. in secret – That means: hidden, so other people do not know
7. a prison – That means: a place where people stay because they break the law
8. a jailer – That means: a person who looks after people in prison
9. to sign something – That means: to write your name on something
10. to be executed – That means: to be killed because of a law or punishment
11. kindness – That means: being nice and helpful to others
12. bravery – That means: being not afraid; being brave
13. friendship – That means: being friends with someone
14. a gift – That means: something you give to someone to show love or thanks
15. courage – That means: the ability to be brave

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

True or false:

1. Saint Valentine was a priest in Rome.
2. The emperor wanted young men to marry.
3. Saint Valentine married couples in secret.
4. Saint Valentine lived around 270 A.D.
5. The emperor put Saint Valentine in prison.
6. Saint Valentine became friends with the emperor’s daughter.
7. He wrote a note and signed it, “From your Valentine.”
8. Saint Valentine was executed because he helped his family.
9. Valentine’s Day is celebrated in March.
10. People give cards, flowers, and gifts on Valentine’s Day.
11. Saint Valentine married couples in public.
12. People celebrate soldiers only on Valentine’s Day.
13. People remembered Saint Valentine for his kindness and bravery.
14. Saint Valentine invented Valentine’s cards.
15. Valentine’s Day is not about love.

_______________________
Answers (one line)

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

_______________________

Correct version:

1. Saint Valentine was a priest in Rome.
2. The emperor wanted young men to marry. True is: The emperor did not want young men to marry.
3. Saint Valentine married couples in secret.
4. Saint Valentine lived around 270 A.D.
5. The emperor put Saint Valentine in prison.
6. Saint Valentine became friends with the emperor’s daughter. True is: Saint Valentine became friends with the jailer’s daughter.
7. He wrote a note and signed it, “From your Valentine.”
8. Saint Valentine was executed because he helped his family. True is: Saint Valentine was executed because he had helped soldiers.
9. Valentine’s Day is celebrated in March. True is: Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14.
10. People give cards, flowers, and gifts on Valentine’s Day.
11. Saint Valentine married couples in public. True is: Saint Valentine married couples in secret.
12. People celebrate soldiers only on Valentine’s Day. True is: Valentine’s Day is a special day to show love and friendship.
13. People remembered Saint Valentine for his kindness and bravery.
14. Saint Valentine had Valentine’s cards. True is: The first Valentine’s card was written by Saint Valentine.
15. Valentine’s Day is not about love. True is: Valentine’s Day is a special day to show love.

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

Fill in, words below:

emperor – bravery – marry – love – stay single –
people – daughter – priest – gifts –
signed – chose – in secret –
note – executed

1. A long time ago, in Rome there was a __________ named Saint Valentine.
2. The emperor did not want young men to __________.
3. He thought soldiers should __________, but Saint Valentine helped people who loved each other.
4. Saint Valentine helped young __________ to marry.
5. He married couples __________.
6. The __________ found out and was very angry. He put Saint Valentine in prison.
7. While he was in prison, Saint Valentine became friends with the jailer’s __________.
8. He wrote her a small __________.
9. He __________ the note, “From your Valentine.”
10. After some time, Saint Valentine was __________ because of what he had done.
11. People remembered Saint Valentine for his kindness and __________.
12. They __________ February 14 to honor him.
13. Today, people in many countries give cards, flowers, and __________ to remember Saint Valentine.
14. Valentine’s Day is a special day to show __________ just like Saint Valentine did.

—————————–
Correct version:

1. A long time ago, in Rome there was a priest named Saint Valentine.
2. The emperor did not want young men to marry.
3. He thought soldiers should stay single, but Saint Valentine helped people who loved each other.
4. Saint Valentine helped young people to marry.
5. He married couples in secret.
6. The emperor found out and was very angry. He put Saint Valentine in prison.
7. While he was in prison, Saint Valentine became friends with the jailer’s daughter.
8. He wrote her a small note.
9. He signed the note, “From your Valentine.”
10. After some time, Saint Valentine was executed because of what he had done.
11. People remembered Saint Valentine for his kindness and bravery.
12. They chose February 14 to honor him.
13. Today, people in many countries give cards, flowers, and gifts to remember Saint Valentine.
14. Valentine’s Day is a special day to show love just like Saint Valentine did.

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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Who was Saint Valentine?
   a) An emperor
   b) A soldier
   c) A priest
2. Where did Saint Valentine live a long time ago?
   a) Rome
   b) Egypt
   c) Greece
3. Around what year did Saint Valentine live?
   a) 500 B.C.
   b) 1500 A.D.
   c) 270 A.D.
4. Why did the emperor not want young men to marry?
   a) He did not care
   b) He wanted soldiers to stay single
   c) He wanted soldiers to marry
5. What did Saint Valentine do for couples?
   a) He helped them marry in secret
   b) He helped them buy gifts
   c) He gave them chocolate
6. Where did the emperor put Saint Valentine?
   a) In a prison
   b) In a house
   c) In a school
7. Who became Saint Valentine’s friend in prison?
   a) The jailer’s daughter
   b) The emperor’s daughter
   c) The jailer
8. What did Saint Valentine write and sign?
   a) “I love you”
   b) “From your Valentine”
   c) “Happy Valentine’s Day”
9. When do people celebrate Valentine’s Day?
   a) February 14
   b) March 14
   c) December 14
10. What is Valentine’s Day a special day to show?
    a) Bravery
    b) Kindness
    c) Love

________________________
Answers:

1-c, 2-a, 3-c, 4-b, 5-a,
6-a, 7-a, 8-b, 9-a, 10-c

________________________

Full version:

1. Who was Saint Valentine? – Saint Valentine was a priest.
2. Where did Saint Valentine live a long time ago? – Saint Valentine lived in Rome.
3. Around what year did Saint Valentine live? – Saint Valentine lived around the year 270 A.D.
4. Why did the emperor not want young men to marry? – The emperor did not want soldiers to marry because he wanted them to stay single.
5. What did Saint Valentine do for couples? – Saint Valentine helped couples to marry in secret.
6. Where did the emperor put Saint Valentine? – The emperor put Saint Valentine in prison.
7. Who became Saint Valentine’s friend in prison? – Saint Valentine became friends with the jailer’s daughter.
8. What did Saint Valentine write and sign? – Saint Valentine wrote a note and signed it “From your Valentine.”
9. When do people celebrate Valentine’s Day? – People celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14.
10. What is Valentine’s Day a special day to show? – Valentine’s Day is a special day to show love.

_______________________

1. Who was Saint Valentine? – priest
2. Where did Saint Valentine live a long time ago? – Rome
3. Around what year did Saint Valentine live? – 270 A.D.
4. Why did the emperor not want young men to marry? – soldiers stay single
5. What did Saint Valentine do for couples? – marry in secret
6. Where did the emperor put Saint Valentine? – prison
7. Who became Saint Valentine’s friend in prison? – jailer’s daughter
8. What did Saint Valentine write and sign? – From your Valentine
9. When do people celebrate Valentine’s Day? – February 14
10. What is Valentine’s Day a special day to show? – love

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

Unscramble the sentences:

1. Rome / Saint / a / Valentine / priest / was / in
   
   YOU WRITE:
   Saint Valentin was a priest in Rome.
   
2. men / The / want / did / emperor / not / to / marry
   ____________________________
3. in / married / secret / couples / Valentine
   ____________________________
4. other / He / loved / each / helped / who / people
   ____________________________
5. emperor / The / put / in / Valentine / prison
   ____________________________
6. jailer’s / Valentine / became / the / daughter / friends / with
   ____________________________
7. small / a / He / note / wrote
   ____________________________
8. He / note / signed / the / “From / Valentine / your”
   ____________________________
9. kindness / and / remembered / for / People / bravery / his / Valentine
   ____________________________
10. Day / Valentine’s / day / show / love / is / special / a / to
    ____________________________

——————————–
Correct answers:

1. Saint Valentine was a priest in Rome.
2. The emperor did not want men to marry.
3. Valentine married couples in secret.
4. He helped people who loved each other.
5. The emperor put Valentine in prison.
6. Valentine became friends with the jailer’s daughter.
7. He wrote a small note.
8. He signed the note “From your Valentine.”
9. People remembered Valentine for his kindness and bravery.
10. Valentine’s Day is a special day to show love.

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

Fill in, words below:

soldiers – jailer’s – priest – small note –
remember – around – emperor –
in Rome – in secret

Interviewer: Who was Saint Valentine?
Historian: Saint Valentine was a _________.

Interviewer: Where did he live?
Historian: He lived _________.

Interviewer: Around what year did he live?
Historian: He lived __________ the year 270 A.D.

Interviewer: Why did the emperor not want men to marry?
Historian: The emperor did not want young men to marry because he thought __________ should stay single.

Interviewer: What did Saint Valentine do for couples?
Historian: Saint Valentine married couples__________.

Interviewer: Where did the _________ put him?
Historian: The emperor put Saint Valentine in prison.

Interviewer: Who did he become friends with in prison?
Historian: He became friends with the __________ daughter.

Interviewer: What did he write and sign?
Historian: He wrote a __________ and signed it “From your Valentine.”

Interviewer: Why do people celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Historian: People celebrate Valentine’s Day to ________ his kindness and bravery.

________________________

Full dialogue:

Interviewer: Who was Saint Valentine?
Historian: Saint Valentine was a priest.

Interviewer: Where did he live?
Historian: He lived in Rome.

Interviewer: Around what year did he live?
Historian: He lived around the year 270 A.D.

Interviewer: Why did the emperor not want men to marry?
Historian: The emperor did not want young men to marry because he thought soldiers should stay single.

Interviewer: What did Saint Valentine do for couples?
Historian: Saint Valentine married couples in secret.

Interviewer: Where did the emperor put him?
Historian: The emperor put Saint Valentine in prison.

Interviewer: Who did he become friends with in prison?
Historian: He became friends with the jailer’s daughter.

Interviewer: What did he write and sign?
Historian: He wrote a small note and signed it “From your Valentine.”

Interviewer: Why do people celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Historian: People celebrate Valentine’s Day to remember his kindness and bravery.