ZZWriting Better English PDF
ZZWriting Better English PDF
ZZWriting Better English PDF
Writing Better
English
FOR ESL LEARNERS
Second Edition
Writing Better
English
FOR ESL LEARNERS
ED SWICK
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Contents
Introduction vii
1 Preparing to Write 1
Verb Tenses 2
Auxiliaries 16
The Passive Voice 26
The Subjunctive Mode 31
Conjunctions 38
Pronouns 44
Possessives and Plurals 62
The Comparative and Superlative 68
2 Beginning to Write 75
Sentence Completion 75
Introduction
Writing in any language is a difcult skill to acquire. Therefore, as an ESL student you should approach writing in English carefully. In order to write well,
you want to rst have an understanding of grammatical structures, vocabulary,
and tense usage. You practice those concepts until you can use them with relative ease. Then you are ready to practice writing original material.
This book does two things:
1. It gives you an abundant review of basic structures.
2. It provides various forms of writing practice within a controlled
program that focuses on improving the skills needed to write
accurately.
In Chapter 1 you will have the opportunity to learn or review grammar
basics. By checking the Answer Key at the end of this book, you can nd the
correct or example answers to the exercises. If you have an English-speaking
friend, you might ask him or her to check your work.
If you wish, you can follow your progress by using a very simple method.
After each exercise, count every word that you have writteneven little words
like the, a, and, or but. Then count every error you have made in spelling, tense,
word order, missing words, or any other potential mistake.
Divide the number of words you have written (W) by the number of errors
(E) you have made. The result is a number (N) that you can compare after every
exercise you write:
WEN
If you wrote sixty words and made twelve errors, you would come up with:
60 12 5
vii
viii
Introduction
After completing the review exercises, you will be ready to begin Chapter 2.
In this chapter you will complete sentences with your original phrases, and you
will use your own ideas as you write. You will see a sentence similar to this:
John borrowed
to get to work.
to get to work.
For each exercise in Chapter 3 you will compose ten short, original sentences while using a phrase as the specic element in each sentence. For
example:
Sample phrase: The new car
Used as the subject: The new car is in the garage.
Used as the direct object: Mary loved the new car.
Used after the preposition to: A man came up to the new car.
You may, of course, use dictionaries and grammar books as aids in order to
write as correctly as possible. You could give yourself a time limit (fteen minutes or thirty minutes) for writing the exercise, but use the same number of
minutes each time you write.
In Chapter 4 you will ll in the missing phrases or sentences in a story. They
can be any phrases or sentences that you wish, but they must conform to the
plot of the story. For example:
The Diamond Ring
The robber crept into the hallway of the dark house and turned on the
light. On the desk he saw a beautiful silver box holding a diamond ring,
which he put in his pocket. Then he opened the window, jumped to the
ground, and ed down the street.
Chapter 5 deals with letter writing. Each letter can be written within the
same framework of time (fteen minutes, thirty minutes, or longer). There is
a difference between friendly letters and business letters. This part of the
writing program will help you to write both types of letters.
Introduction
In Chapter 6 you will write original stories. The stories are to be based on
the assigned topic, and they should include the grammar structures indicated.
For example:
Sample title: Lost in the Desert
Include these structures:
the relative pronoun which
to want to in the past perfect tense
the conjunction if
You would then write a story about someone lost and roaming the desert.
You would probably write of heat and thirst and of the difculties of nding a
way to safety. And somewhere in your story you would have three sentences
similar to these (which include the required sample structures):
She believed she saw a lake, which, unfortunately, was only a mirage.
She had often wanted to climb a sand dune.
If she found water, she knew she would survive.
If you feel you have not done well enough in any chapter of this book, do
not go on to the next chapter. Instead, repeat the chapter that needs improvement. Set a standard of quality for yourself and conform to it. Use the Answer
Key not only to check your work but also to nd suggestions for how to write
appropriate sentences for any of the exercises.
ix
Preparing to Write
In order to write well in English, you should understand the basics of the language. Probably the most difcult area for students learning English is verbs.
Although English verbs are used in complicated ways, they do not have complicated conjugations with a different ending for each pronoun like other languages might.
GERMAN
SPANISH
RUSSIAN
ich fahre
yo hablo
du fhrst
tu hablas
er fhrt
el habla
wir fahren
nosotros hablamos
ihr fhrt
vosotros hablis
sie fahren
ellos hablan
With most English verbs there is only one ending (-s or -es) in the third person singular of the present tense. The only exception to that rule is the verb
to be:
TO SPEAK
TO BE
I speak
I am
you speak
you are
he speaks
he is
we speak
we are
you speak
you are
they speak
they are
But English has other complexities. For example, there are three ways to
express the present tense:
The simple conjugation of the verb means that the action of the verb is a
habit or is repeated. For example: We speak.
When the verb is conjugated with a form of to be (am, is, are, was, were),
the verb will have an -ing ending. It means that the action is continuing
or not yet completed. For example: We are speaking.
The third present tense form uses a conjugation of to do (do, does) with
the verb and has three uses: (1) It is used to ask a question with most
verbs except to be or certain auxiliaries (can, must, should, and so on).
(2) It is used as an emphatic response. (3) It is used to negate the verb
with not. Lets look at some examples with the verb to speak:
I speak English. (This is my habit. I speak English all the time.)
I am speaking English. (I usually speak Spanish. At the moment I am speaking
English.)
Do you speak English? (A question with the verb to speak.)
I do speak English. (This is your emphatic response to someone who has just
said, You dont speak English.)
I do not speak English. (Negation of the verb to speak with not.)
Conjugating English verbs is not difcult. But choosing the correct tense
form from the three just described requires practice. The exercises that follow
will help you to use English verb forms and tenses with accuracy.
Verb Tenses
Study the following examples, which show how verbs change in the various
tenses. Some tenses require a form of to be and a present participle. Present participles have an -ing ending: is going, were singing. Other tenses require a past
participle. Regular verbs form the past tense and past participle in the same
wayjust add -ed: worked, have worked. Use Appendix A of irregular verbs in
the past tense and past participle to see how they are formed.
The perfect tenses of both regular and irregular verbs are a combination of
a form of to have plus a past participle: I have worked. She has seen. You had broken. Tom will have discovered.
In the exercises that follow you will be making similar tense changes.
Past
Preparing to Write
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
Who is speaking?
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
(Because the perfect and future tenses in the preceding example have an auxiliary verb [have, had, will] in the question, a form of to do is not necessary.)
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
(Because the perfect and future tenses in the preceding example have an auxiliary verb [hasnt, hadnt, wont] in the sentence, a form of to do is not necessary.)
Exercise 1.1 Rewrite the following sentences in the tenses given. Use the examples given previously to help you maintain accuracy.
Preparing to Write
7. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect Juan had visited his aunt and uncle.
Future
Future Perfect
8. Present
Past She carried the child to her bed.
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
9. Present My sister often dates Michael.
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
10. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
11. Present
Past How did they do that?
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
12. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future The boys will never eat broccoli.
Preparing to Write
4. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
10. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
11. Present
Past We got a letter from a distant relative.
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
12. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect Hadnt you expected that?
Future
13. Present Mr. Phillips is writing a novel.
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
14. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future Carmen wont believe you.
15. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Exercise 1.3 Rewrite the following sentences in the tenses given. Use the exam-
ples to help you maintain accuracy. Notice that you will be dealing with a wider
variety of verbs here.
Preparing to Write
6. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
7. Present
Past
Present Perfect
10
Past Perfect
Future Wont you sing, too?
8. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future They wont be going shopping.
9. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
10. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
Preparing to Write
Past Perfect
Future She will exercise before breakfast.
Future Perfect
14. Present
Past The chef roasted a turkey.
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
15. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
Exercise 1.4 Rewrite the following sentences in the tenses given, but change the
subject of each sentence to a different pronoun (I, you, he, she, it, we, they, or
who).
Present He sees you.
Past I saw you.
Present Perfect She has seen you.
Past Perfect They had seen you.
Future We will see you.
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12
3. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
4. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect We had found him just in time.
Future
Future Perfect
5. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future They will arrange a party for her.
Future Perfect
6. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
Preparing to Write
11. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future We will gain nothing by doing this.
Future Perfect
12. Present They get up by seven A.M.
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
13. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
14. Present
Past You didnt understand a thing he said.
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
13
14
15. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future I will depart before dawn.
Future Perfect
You have been forming the future tense by using will with a verb (I will go,
she will sing, they will be taking). The auxiliary shall is often used in the rst
person singular and plural (I and we). But in casual English will is used nearly
all the time.
FORMAL
CASUAL
The future tense meaning is also expressed with the phrase to be going to (I
am going to, you are going to, he is going to). It means the same thing as will
and can replace it.
WILL
TO BE GOING TO
The phrase to be going to can be conjugated in the past tense. Then it means
that this was something that someone planned to do in the future.
They were going to buy a new car.
Were you going to help me?
Exercise 1.5 Rewrite the following future tense sentences by changing will to
to be going to.
Preparing to Write
15
16
Auxiliaries
Its very common to use to have or to be as auxiliaries or helping verbs. For
example:
Have you seen that lm? (a form of to have plus a past participle)
I havent had a chance to go to the store today. (a form of to have plus a
past participle)
Are you learning a lot of new words? (a form of to be plus a present
participle)
She isnt studying for her exams. (a form of to be plus a present
participle)
But there are other auxiliary verbs that are used with innitives (to go, to run,
to help, to nd, and so on).
Note that many of these special verbs cannot be used in all tenses. And in
some cases, you have to change to a different verb to form a specic tense. The
examples that follow will be conjugated with the third person pronoun he.
TO BE ABLE TO
TO BE SUPPOSED TO
Present
is able to
is supposed to
Past
was able to
was supposed to
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
will be able to
will be supposed to
Future Perfect
Preparing to Write
CAN
TO HAVE TO
Present
can
has to
Past
had to
Present Perfect
has had to
Past Perfect
had had to
Future
will be able to
will have to
Future Perfect
MAY
MUST
Present
may
must
Past
might
had to
Present Perfect
has had to
Past Perfect
had had to
Future
will have to
Future Perfect
OUGHT TO
SHOULD
Present
ought to
should
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
TO WANT
TO NEED TO
Present
wants
needs to
Past
wanted
needed to
Present Perfect
has wanted
has needed to
Past Perfect
had wanted
had needed to
Future
will want
will need to
Future Perfect
Exercise 1.6 Rewrite the following sentences in the tenses given. Use the pre-
ceding examples to help you maintain accuracy. Notice that these sentences contain auxiliaries, and remember that not all the tenses can be formed with some
of these verbs.
1. Present Can you hear me well enough?
Past
Present Perfect
17
18
Past Perfect
Future
2. Present
Past Martin wanted to buy a car.
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
3. Present
Past I was supposed to go home by eight oclock.
Past Perfect
4. Present
Past
Preparing to Write
Future
Future Perfect
9. Present Juan must work all day.
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
10. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect She hadnt needed to get there on time.
Future
11. Present
Past They couldnt unlock the door.
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
12. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect I had never wanted to become a lawyer.
Future
13. Present Jack needs to nd work again.
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
14. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future Will you be able to stand up?
19
20
ought to work
can work
have to work
supposed to work
must work
need to work
may work
want to work
should work
When you use one of the auxiliaries with a verb, you tell to what degree of
obligation someone has to carry out the action of the verb. Look at the following sentences. The rst one shows the least degree of obligation. This is something someone doesnt have to do. The last sentence shows the greatest degree
of obligation. This is something that someone absolutely must do.
We may return the books. (Least obligation. Its our choice.)
We can return the books. (Little obligation. Its our choice.)
We are able to return the books. (Little obligation. We have the ability to
do this.)
We need to return the books. (Slight obligation.)
We ought to return the books. (Little obligation. But this would be a
good idea.)
We should return the books. (Little obligation. But this would be a
good idea.)
We are supposed to return the books. (Some obligation. Someone has
suggested we do this.)
We must return the books. (Greatest obligation. It is our duty to do this.)
We have to return the books. (Greatest obligation. It is our duty to do this.)
When you add an auxiliary to a sentence, you should use the same tense as
the original verb. For example: John found [past tense] a good book. When
you add have to to that sentence, you say, John had to [past tense] nd a good
book.
Preparing to Write
Exercise 1.7 Rewrite the following sentences with the auxiliaries given. Be sure
to retain the same tense as in the original sentence.
21
22
10. Nick reads all the books on the top shelf. (may)
11. We will take the train as far as Chicago. (to have to)
12. They spoke with very little accent. (to be able to)
14. The designers turn their work in on time. (to be supposed to)
Exercise 1.8 Remove the auxiliaries from the following sentences and rewrite
Preparing to Write
23
24
Exercise 1.9 Fill in the blanks in the following sentences with any appropriate
go to the opera.
play soccer with a neighborhood team.
it rain every Saturday?
go
Preparing to Write
7. My aunt
13. When
14. There
17. Do you
18. Ms. Brown
19. Tomorrow I will
20. Do I
Exercise 1.10 Complete each sentence that follows with any appropriate phrase.
?
?
.
25
26
4. Tomorrow I need to
5. Should Raquel
.
?
TO BE COOKED
Present
is found
is cooked
Past
was found
was cooked
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
will be found
will be cooked
Future Perfect
Preparing to Write
The passive is often used when you do not know who the person was that
carried out a certain action. In the active voice, the subject (or the person who
carries out a certain action) is obvious: A strange man stole her purse. In the
passive sentence, the direct object (her purse) becomes the new subject, and the
verb (stole) is changed to the past participle (stolen). You can say in the passive
voice, Her purse was stolen by a strange man. If you dont know who the thief
is, you can say, Her purse was stolen.
Exercise 1.11 Rewrite the following sentences in the tenses shown. Notice that
these sentences contain the passive voice structure (to be plus past participles).
1. Present
Past Was the window repaired?
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
2. Present
Past The dog was struck by a car.
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
3. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
4. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
27
28
5. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect The fort had been attacked at dawn.
Future
Future Perfect
6. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect Her drivers license had been taken away.
Future
Future Perfect
7. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future A new song will be written for the rock concert.
Future Perfect
8. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future Will the injured man be rescued in time?
Future Perfect
9. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
Preparing to Write
Future
Future Perfect
11. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future Our candidate will be elected before noon.
Future Perfect
12. Present A protester is being removed from the meeting.
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
13. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
14. Present
Past Was the dessert prepared in time?
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
Future Perfect
15. Present
Past
Present Perfect
Past Perfect She had been warned against saying that.
Future
Future Perfect
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30
Exercise 1.12 Some part of the passive structure is missing in each sentence.
Fill in the blank with the appropriate form of the verb given in parentheses ( ).
For example: He has been given a prize. (to have)
Preparing to Write
17. Someone
. (to break)
I am
be
have
have
go
go
you are
be
have
have
go
go
he is
be
has
have
goes
go
we are
be
have
have
go
go
they are
be
have
have
go
go
Use the past subjunctive conjugation when you want to express a wish. The
phrase often begins with if:
If only Juan were here.
If I just had another twenty dollars.
31
32
The past subjunctive is also used to set up a present condition (If this were
the case, that would happen). The phrase beginning with if sets the condition.
If it stopped raining, I would be very happy.
If you understood my problem, you would offer me better advice.
I wouldnt do that if I were you.
Notice that would and a verb are used in the phrase that does not contain if.
The past subjunctive is formed from the simple past tense and, except for
the verb to be, looks just like the past tense. Look at some examples with the
verbs to be, to have, and to look.
INDICATIVE SUBJUNCTIVE INDICATIVE SUBJUNCTIVE INDICATIVE SUBJUNCTIVE
I was
were
had
had
looked
looked
you were
were
had
had
looked
looked
he was
were
had
had
looked
looked
we were
were
had
had
looked
looked
had
had
looked
looked
In certain cases, the verb can be preceded by would. This use will be explained
later. The preceding three verbs become would be, would have, and would look.
When you use a verb with an auxiliary (is going, has spoken, is able to
write), the same pattern occurs as shown previously. In the phrase that begins
with if, use the auxiliary and participle. In the other phrase, use would followed
by the auxiliary and participle. The phrase that begins with if sets the past condition. Lets look at some examples:
If he had earned enough money, he would have been going to college
next fall.
Tom would have spoken with you if he had seen you.
If you had studied harder, you would have been able to write better.
Exercise 1.13 Fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb shown.
Preparing to Write
7. If you
win) the game.
8. Juan
(have been) cheaper.
(to
9. If only mother
12. Long
13. Tom
(to smile) at him.
14. I
(have helped) you if I
known) how ill you are.
15. She suggested the man
blood test.
(have
(to come)
33
34
20. If she
(to be) alive today, she
(to approve) of your marriage.
Exercise 1.14 Change the verbs in the following sentences from a present con-
dition to a past condition by adding the auxiliary have and changing the verb to
a past participle. For example: If he came along, I would be glad. When you
add have it changes to: If he had come along, I would have been glad.
1. If Jorge were at home, he would answer the telephone.
2. If you earned enough money, you would be able to buy the car.
7. If Mr. Johnson got a ticket, his wife would be very angry with him.
Preparing to Write
13. If the carpenter had time, he would build you a nice cabinet.
16. If she saw the movie, she would understand why I like it.
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36
19. If you were a rich man, you could help feed the poor.
20. If that were the case, I would immediately agree with you.
Exercise 1.15 Now change the following sentences from a past condition to a
present condition. For example: If he had come along, I would have been glad.
When you remove the auxiliary, it changes to: If he came along, I would be
glad.
1. If only he had seen the truck in time.
2. I wouldnt have given her the money if I had known why she wanted it.
3. Would you have cared if I had gone out on a date with Carmen?
4. Maria would have had to stay overnight if she had missed the last train.
7. The boss would have red her if he had seen her sleeping on the job.
Preparing to Write
9. The thief would have been caught if the police had arrived sooner.
10. If the computer had been repaired, the data les would have been nished
on time.
11. Mary would have slapped his face if he had tried to kiss her.
12. If they had arrived by noon, we would have been able to have lunch
together.
14. Bill would have become an artist if he had had some money to live on.
15. There would nally have been peace if the diplomats had signed the
treaty.
Exercise 1.16 Complete the following sentences with any appropriate phrase.
.
.
37
38
today.
4. I would be so grateful if
7. If
8. If
her.
Conjunctions
In this part you will be dealing with conjunctions. They are used to combine
two sentences into onea compound sentence. Some conjunctions have an
adverbial usage, but here you will encounter them as they are used in everyday
language: as words that combine two phrases or sentences into one.
If the combined sentences each have a subject and a verb, separate the sentences with a comma:
John is a doctor, and Mary is a lawyer.
John is a doctor and works in Chicago.
When using however or therefore, you should separate the combined sentences with a semicolon:
His hands were tied; however, he continued to struggle to get free.
Theres a storm coming; therefore we have to stay alert.
Preparing to Write
The use of the comma is optional when the two parts of the sentence are
related or are linked by meaning:
Alicia is smart, but she hates to study.
Alicia is smart but she hates to study.
Interrogative pronouns, which ask a question, can also be used as conjunctions. They are not true conjunctions, but they can still be used to combine two
sentences into one. These are interrogative pronouns:
how
what
when
where
why
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40
Exercise 1.17 Choose the appropriate conjunction from the two given, and
rewrite the two sentences as one.
3. Monday is the rst day of classes. (and, why) I still have to buy some
books.
8. The soldiers let out a cheer. (for, where) The war had nally ended.
9. Tom will help you. (if, since) You pay him a few dollars.
Preparing to Write
12. Its been a long time. (since, if) I last saw you.
14. She suddenly understood. (where, but) Father got the money.
16. I cannot read your writing. (but, therefore) I have to give you a failing
grade.
17. Does anyone have an idea? (who, when) The train will arrive.
18. (Because, Where) You are so stubborn. I wont argue with you any longer.
19. Marie comes from France. (and, since) Juanita comes from Mexico.
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20. This vacation was a very good idea. (and, since) Im glad I came along.
Exercise 1.18 Complete the following sentences with any appropriate phrase.
13. When
14. The ancient map showed where
15. If
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Exercise 1.19 Complete the following sentences with any appropriate phrase.
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Pronouns
A pronoun is a word that can replace a noun in a sentence. English has four
basic pronouns that can replace a noun. A noun referring to males (man, boy,
gentleman) is replaced by he. A noun referring to females (girl, mother, lady)
is replaced by she. A noun referring to an inanimate object (house, rock, window) is replaced by it. And all plural nouns (boys, children, rocks) are replaced
by they. The pronoun we is the replacement for a noun plus I: Tom and I we,
the girls and I we.
But the pronouns just given (he, she, it, they, we) are used only as the subject of a sentence. Pronouns have other forms, which are used as objects or
possessives.
SUBJECT
OBJECT
POSSESSIVE
INDEPENDENT POSSESSIVE
he
him
his
his
she
her
her
hers
it
it
its
its
they
them
their
theirs
we
us
our
ours
An independent possessive pronoun is one that replaces a possessive pronoun and a noun. It is independent. It can stand alone.
This one is his book. This one is his.
Her dress is rather dirty. Hers is rather dirty.
Its right fender has a dent. Its has a dent.
Where is their tent? Where is theirs?
Our brother works in Chicago. Ours works in Chicago.
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Although the pronouns I and you do not replace nouns, they follow the
same pattern as the pronouns already shown.
SUBJECT
OBJECT
POSSESSIVE
INDEPENDENT POSSESSIVE
me
my
mine
you
you
your
yours
Exercise 1.20 Replace the italicized noun or noun phrase in the following sentences with the appropriate pronoun. Be careful: not all of the italicized nouns
are subjects.
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9. I think that the last two chairs at the table are our chairs.
10. You ought to have a few words with that rude man.
11. Jane and I had been hoping to see Aunt Susan again.
13. No one told the other children that there is no school today.
Exercise 1.21 Change the italicized possessive noun or noun phrase to the
appropriate pronoun.
1. The childrens bedroom needs to be painted.
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Reexive Pronouns
A reexive pronoun is easily identied by the ending -self for a singular (myself,
yourself, himself, herself, itself ) and -selves for a plural (ourselves, yourselves,
themselves). It is the object acted upon by a pronoun subject of the same form.
Look at the following table:
SUBJECT PRONOUN
OBJECT PRONOUN
REFLEXIVE PRONOUN
me
myself
you (singular)
you
yourself
he
him
himself
she
her
herself
it
it
itself
we
us
ourselves
you (plural)
you
yourselves
they
them
themselves
If the subject acts upon an object that is a different pronoun, use an object
pronoun. If the subject and object are the same pronoun, use a reexive pronoun. Look at these examples:
I protect you. I protect him. I protect them. I protect myself.
He helps me. He helps her. He helps us. He helps himself.
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Exercise 1.22 Fill in the blank with the appropriate form of the pronoun shown
in parentheses ( ).
1. We usually bathe
2. I cant understand
. (he)
to be careful. (I)
? (they)
. (it)
11. I sent
at all. (it)
. (he)
. (you)
for what we did. (we)
. (he)
hiding under the bed. (she)
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. (I)
in the mirror. (they)
! (it)
Exercise 1.23 Use the pronouns listed in the following and write three short
sentences: (a) use the pronoun as a subject, (b) use the pronoun as a direct
object or the object of a preposition, and (c) use the pronoun as a possessive.
Example: He
a. He is my friend. (subject)
b. I visit him often. (direct object) This is for him. (object of preposition)
c. His father is a butcher. (possessive)
1. I
a.
b.
c.
2. You (singular)
a.
b.
c.
3. She
a.
b.
c.
4. We
a.
b.
c.
5. They
a.
b.
c.
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6. It
a.
b.
c.
7. He
a.
b.
c.
8. You (plural)
a.
b.
c.
Relative Pronouns
A relative pronoun is a word that does two things: (1) It replaces a noun or pronoun in the sentence. (2) It combines the sentence with a second sentence. Look
at the two sentences that follow. The phrase the ofcer is in both sentences:
The ofcer saw him speeding. The ofcer gave him a ticket.
These two sentences can be combined by changing one of the phrases the ofcer to a relative pronoun. The English relative pronouns are who or that for people and which or that for things. See how the preceding sentences are changed:
The ofcer, who saw him speeding, gave him a ticket.
or
The ofcer, who gave him a ticket, saw him speeding.
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or
The ofcer that gave him a ticket saw him speeding.
Notice that commas are not used with that. Look at a few more examples:
I like the girl. The girl lives down that street.
I like the girl who lives down that street.
or
I like the girl that lives down that street.
He said a word. I dont understand a word.
He said a word, which I dont understand.
or
He said a word that I dont understand.
Wheres the car? You bought the car.
Wheres the car that you bought?
or
Wheres the car you bought?
Lets take a closer look at relative pronouns and the clauses they form.
English forms relative clauses in four ways:
1. With the relative pronoun who or whom, when referring to people.
Who is used as the subject of a sentence. Whom is used in all other
cases. Whose replaces a possessive adjective (my, his, our, et cetera).
2. With the relative pronoun that when referring to people or things.
3. With the relative pronoun which when referring to things.
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pronoun.
1. We decided to buy the newspaper. The newspaper was printed in London.
3. Are you going to rent the apartment? William lived in the apartment.
4. I have often chatted with the policeman. My father knows the policeman.
8. They all like the new boss. The new boss got them pay raises.
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10. Do you have the money? I put the money on this table.
11. The children were lost in the forest. An ugly witch lived in the forest.
12. I dont understand the problem. You wrote about the problem in your
letter.
13. Several men found the bear. The bears cubs had died.
14. She shouldnt wear the dress. The dress has a stain on it.
15. They captured the ofcer. The ofcers troops attacked the fort.
17. Martin sold the three bicycles. He found the three bicycles abandoned in
the alley.
18. Maria received the money from her aunt. She sent a thank-you note to her
aunt.
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20. Lets try on the skirt. The skirt has fewer pleats.
Exercise 1.25 Restate each relative clause that follows as an elliptical relative
clause.
This is the coat that I found. This is the coat I found.
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8. Help me nd the kitten that the dog chased into the garden.
10. The thief stole the camera, which I had placed on this bench a moment
ago.
11. This is the heroic boy that the reporter wrote about.
12. I was the one who bought the bottle of beer that Robert drank.
13. Our boss red the woman with whom he had argued.
14. Carmen lived in the same town that I lived in years ago.
15. Why did you break the window, which Dad just repaired?
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16. Do you want the old clock that I found in the attic?
19. No one can identify the fossils that you told me about.
20. Have you seen the statue that the artist sculpted last week?
Exercise 1.26 Complete the following sentences with any appropriate relative
clause. You should use the relative pronoun given. Omit the relative pronoun
where indicated.
1. We spent several days in the valley, which
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But when the possessive noun is an inanimate object, use a prepositional phrase
with of. Look at these examples:
I found a book. The books cover was torn and dirty.
I found a book, the cover of which was torn and dirty.
Youll recognize their house. The color of their house is bright yellow.
Youll recognize their house, the color of which is bright yellow.
I have some lumber. The length of the lumber is perfect for this project.
I have some lumber, the length of which is perfect for this project.
No matter how the inanimate object forms its possessive (the books or of
the book), the relative pronoun is formed as a prepositional phrase (of which).
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Exercise 1.27 Combine the following sentences. Use the appropriate possessive
3. I bought an old car. The interior of the old car was in bad condition.
5. I need a carton. The cartons size has to be two feet by three feet by three
feet.
6. Juan discovered a cave. The caves ceiling was more than thirty feet high.
7. The doctor examined the child. The childs temperature was over one
hundred degrees.
8. The teacher punished the boys. The boys behavior was awful.
9. He reread the words. The meaning of the words was beyond his
understanding.
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10. Juanita tasted the cake. The cakes avor was wonderful.
11. He bought a bouquet of roses. The color of the roses is deep red.
12. She gently petted the puppy. Its coat was soft and silky.
13. Laura met Mr. Cane. Mr. Canes relatives still live in England.
14. I covered the boiling pot. The smell of the boiling pot made me ill.
15. Jeff danced with the girls. The girls father was his boss.
16. In the mountains they encountered a hiker. The hikers face was unshaven
and sweaty.
17. Do you know our brothers friend? The mother of our brothers friend
owns the bank.
18. She loved the music. The sound of the music lled the air.
19. I saw Mr. Johnson while shopping at the mall. Mr. Johnsons son is still ill.
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20. He kicked the box into the other room. The contents of the box was our
china.
The ending -s is used for most singular nouns. But if a singular noun
already ends in -s, just add an apostrophe to make it possessive (Mr. Jones car,
Chris house). However, an apostrophe with an -s can also be used (Mr. Joness
car, Chriss house). Some examples of words that can take either form of the
possessive follow.
SINGULAR NOUN
POSSESSIVE -
POSSESSIVE -S
boss
boss
bosss
class
class
classs
gas
gas
gass
miss
miss
misss
Most plural nouns already end in -s. In that case, just add an apostrophe
(two boys bikes, those girls books). But some plural nouns are irregular. These
form their possessive by adding -s, but the meaning is still plural.
one goose
two geese
one man
two men
one woman
ve women
ve womens shoes
one mouse
ten mice
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Plurals are formed very simply in English: add -s or -es to most words. If a
word ends in -s, -z, -sh, -x, or -ch, add -es for the plural. When a word ends in
-y, it tends to form the plural by changing -y to -i and adding -es (candy, candies; lady, ladies; penny, pennies). There are some exceptions to that rule, for
example, when -y follows a vowel (buy, buys; key, keys; joy, joys). In all other
cases, form the plural with -s. Some examples:
bus, buses
buzz, buzzes
wash, washes
box, boxes
perch, perches
baby, babies
laundry, laundries
country, countries
try, tries
job, jobs
kid, kids
song, songs
ladder, ladders
shipment, shipments
The list of irregular plurals is quite short: child, children; foot, feet; goose,
geese; man, men; mouse, mice; ox, oxen; person, people; tooth, teeth; woman,
women.
Heres a simple rule for knowing whether a word is used as a plural or a possessive: plurals end in -s. Possessives end in -s or -s.
Look what happens to denite (the) and indenite (a, an) articles when a
noun changes from singular to plural:
the boy, the boys
the clock, the clocks
a river, rivers
an apple, apples
The indenite article in the plural is dropped, and the plural word stands alone.
The difference between the denite and indenite article usage is the same for
both the singular and plural. The denite article is specica certain person
or thing that you are thinking about (the man, the car, the problems). The
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of possessive.
1. The young man
verdict is fair.
commands.
5. The women
his words.
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Exercise 1.29 Rewrite the sentences and change all italicized nouns to the plu-
ral. Dont forget to change verbs and other words wherever necessary.
1. The goose had laid a golden egg.
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Exercise 1.30 Look at the phrases in parentheses ( ). Decide which phrase best
in such small
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new house?
4. (the man, the men, the mens) Can you tell me where
room is?
5. (Mr. Roberts, Mr. Roberts)
Seattle.
in the desk
located so far
8. (a grown woman, grown women, the grown womens) Its true that
has a lot of responsibilities.
9. (soups, of soup, the soups) A large bowl
dollars.
costs two
10. (eggs, the eggs, the eggs) The cook needs a dozen
11. (the bosses, the boss) Someone parked in
space.
12. (The tourist, The tourists, The tourists)
to be in order.
13. (my sisters, my brothers, of my cousins) Thats
car on the corner.
.
parking
visa seemed
new
are swollen
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For longer words, comparatives are usually formed by adding the word more
before the adjective or adverb, as in the following:
intelligent Mike is really more intelligent than Tom.
interesting Your last article was more interesting than the one you wrote
in June.
uently Juan speaks more uently than his father.
For longer words, superlatives are usually formed by adding the words the
most before the adjective or adverb, as in the following:
intelligent I think my grandfather is the most intelligent.
interesting The most interesting thing about the movie was the music.
uently She speaks the most uently of anyone I know.
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English has a few irregular forms in the comparative and superlative that
just have to be memorized:
POSITIVE
COMPARATIVE
SUPERLATIVE
good
better
(the) best
well
better
(the) best
bad
worse
(the) worst
much (singular)
more
(the) most
many (plural)
more
(the) most
little (amount)
less
(the) least
Exercise 1.31 Change the italicized adjective or adverb to the comparative. Use
the word in parentheses ( ) to make the contrast. For example, you will see:
Michael is tall. (Bill) You should write: Michael is taller than Bill.
1. My sister is pretty. (my cousin)
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Exercise 1.32 Change the italicized adjective or adverb to the superlative. For
example, you will see: Michael is tall. You should write: Michael is the tallest.
1. My sister is pretty.
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If you have completed all the exercises in this chapter with a high degree of
accuracy, you are ready to go on to the next stage of the writing program. If you
feel you need more review, repeat the exercises that gave you trouble.
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Beginning to Write
Sentence Completion
In Chapter 1 you manipulated the sentences provided for you by changing the
tense of the verb, changing the subject or object of the sentence, or adding
words, such as auxiliaries and modiers. And you dealt with these things separately in categories: verbs, pronouns, adjectives, passive voice, and so on. Upon
completing that kind of practice, you are ready to write more creatively.
But before you begin to write original sentences, you should practice completing different kinds of sentences to test your skill with the things you practiced in Chapter 1. In this chapters exercises you need to decide what word or
phrase makes the most sense for completing each sentence. In each case you
want to be sure that the grammar and the meaning of the words are appropriate.
A variety of elements is missing from the sentences in these exercises. Some
require a subject, others a direct object or the object of a preposition. And still
others are missing a verb or a modier. Look at each sentence carefully, and
decide what kind of element is missing and what meaning is required to make
a good sentence.
Exercise 2.1 Write in the phrase that best completes each sentence.
1. It
cant
cant be able
isnt difcult
wont happen
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3. It was clever of
a. him
b. thieves and robbers
c. singing so quietly
d. the moment
4. You mustnt
a. back down
b. to become angry
c. forget
d. have forgotten
5. Jack discovered
a. alive and well
b. they had
c. several tiny kittens
d. never been
During
In spite
As a result of
Concerning
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9. Its
a.
b.
c.
d.
employment
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this meeting is
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nd a new job.
22. I want to show you the old book I was telling you
.
a. which
b. of which
c. about
d. that
23. Have these customers
a. been waited on
b. paying their bill
c. to order
d. to place an order
yet?
25.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Perhaps
Well,
Of course,
Lets
son is the
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28. My uncle
a. will soon
b. is going
c. will go
d. isnt
29.
left by midnight.
Exercise 2.2 You will see a variety of incomplete sentences, which you may
complete in any appropriate way. Some are missing only one word. Others can
be completed by adding a phrase. Study the examples that follow. Use them as
your model as you go through the exercises.
Mark has been my friend since kindergarten.
She cried when she fell on the ice.
I met a man whose son is also in college.
1. I
2. When
country.
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4. My grandmother has
take a nap.
travel to Mexico.
about this problem all day.
wear a raincoat.
to leave the park at ten oclock.
I work with.
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24. Although
Exercise 2.3 You will see a variety of incomplete sentences, which you may
complete in any appropriate way. Some are missing only one word. Others can
be completed by adding a phrase.
1.
2.
3.
to a different prison.
6. It is impossible to know
8. William suggested he
10. Maria
11. The students
12. My uncle
13. They will have
14. I never
15. If I understood
, I would
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, I knew you
17. He didnt
25. I didnt
, because I knew
why
28. In
I like to
29. During
.
.
Exercise 2.4 You will see a variety of incomplete sentences, which you may
complete in any appropriate way. Some are missing only one word. Others can
be completed by adding a phrase.
1.
2.
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3.
5.
.
if you hadnt borrowed so much money.
.
.
Beginning to Write
Exercise 2.5 You will see a variety of incomplete sentences, which you may
complete in any appropriate way. Some are missing only one word. Others can
be completed by adding a phrase.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
.
if you spend any more money.
.
.
I spent a lot of time in
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.
nor
.
.
.
, and the children will clean the
basement.
25.
If you have completed all the exercises in this chapter with a high degree of
accuracy, you are ready to go on to the next stage of the writing program. If you
feel you need more review, repeat the exercises that gave you trouble. Look at
the Answer Key for suggestions for completing the sentences.
EXAMPLE SENTENCES
B. direct object
C. indirect object
D. object of a preposition
because
F.
possessive -s
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J.
P.
antecedent of an elliptical
relative pronoun
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the new waiter.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
7. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
Exercise 3.2 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase some old friends.
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10. after the conditional phrase If she had loved me (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
Exercise 3.3 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the new boss.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
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10. after the conditional phrase If you had helped us (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
Exercise 3.4 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase two dangerous criminals.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
5. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase When I saw him (Compare
to sample sentence I.)
10. after the conditional phrase If we had the money (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
Exercise 3.5 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase our Mexican guests.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
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8. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
Exercise 3.6 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the bravest woman.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
10. after the conditional phrase If he had lived longer (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
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Exercise 3.7 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase a registered letter.
1. direct object (Compare to sample sentence B.)
6. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
10. antecedent of the relative pronoun that (Compare to sample sentence O.)
Exercise 3.8 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the proud parents.
1. indirect object (Compare to sample sentence C.)
5. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
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Exercise 3.9 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase his youngest daughter.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
5. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase When I saw him (Compare
to sample sentence I.)
6. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
10. after the conditional phrase If I had been wrong (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
Exercise 3.10 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase an angry mob.
1. object of the preposition to (Compare to sample sentence D.)
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10. subject of a passive past tense verb (Compare to sample sentence R.)
Exercise 3.11 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase several pretty girls.
7. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase When I met him (Compare
to sample sentence I.)
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10. after the conditional phrase If he had seen her (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
Exercise 3.12 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the drunken soldier.
Exercise 3.13 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase his drivers license.
1. object of the preposition on (Compare to sample sentence D.)
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10. after the conditional phrase If she had seen us (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
Exercise 3.14 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the best candidates.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
8. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase When I found them
(Compare to sample sentence I.)
10. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
Exercise 3.15 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the bride and groom.
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5. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase When he hit me (Compare to
sample sentence I.)
10. after the conditional phrase If you had lied to me (Compare to sample
sentence S.)
Exercise 3.16 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase a foreign diplomat.
4. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase While she was living in
Europe (Compare to sample sentence I.)
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Exercise 3.17 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase her former partner.
5. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase As soon as he left the room
(Compare to sample sentence I.)
7. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
Exercise 3.18 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase several of the guests.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
6. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
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10. subject of a passive past tense verb (Compare to sample sentence R.)
Exercise 3.19 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase Canadian stamps.
1. subject of the sentence (Compare to sample sentence A.)
6. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase When he arrived (Compare
to sample sentence I.)
10. subject of a passive past tense verb (Compare to sample sentence R.)
Exercise 3.20 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase my nearest relatives.
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4. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase While I was visiting Korea
(Compare to sample sentence I.)
Exercise 3.21 Write ten sentences similar to the examples in AS. Next to the
part of speech for each sentence you will see which example sentence is similar to your new sentence. Use the phrase the soaring eagles.
1. direct object (Compare to sample sentence B.)
5. with a verb in the past tense after the phrase As soon as the rabbit left its
hole (Compare to sample sentence I.)
7. with a verb in the future perfect tense (Compare to sample sentence K.)
10. after a conditional phrase, such as If the nest were attacked (Compare to
sample sentence S.)
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Story Completion
Understanding the Format
In this section of the writing program you will write a variety of stories. But
you do not have to make up the entire story. Parts of it are provided. You ll in
the missing phrases that make sense in the sentence and that follow the story
line. Although the story conforms to a certain idea, you can be creative and give
the details that put your personal touch on the story.
This kind of exercise will give you the practice you need for the time when
you eventually write a complete story on your own.
Study the story in each exercise, and take note of the missing phrases. Certain words will give you a signal as to what kind of word or phrase you should
write. A conjunction, for example, tells you to add a word, phrase, or sentence.
Quotation marks tell you that someone is making a direct statement. Prepositions require an object after them.
You should ll in appropriate phrases that conform to the plot of the story
and the grammar of the sentence. Be careful of tenses and spelling. Follow the
same directions for each story in this chapter. If you are not satised with your
version of the story, check the suggested completions in the Answer Key.
John and Mary wanted to take a vacation. They had worked hard
all year and
. But where
115
116
or to
?
Or how about
John said.
But no matter how much they talked, they couldnt
. John believed
, but Mary wanted
. How could they decide what would be best for both
of them?
John opened the newspaper and saw
. He showed Mary the article, and she
.
That sounds like fun, Mary said. Id love
.
Story Completion
? Mary suddenly
117
118
Exercise 4.2 The Ant and the Grasshopper. The story line: An ant is busy work-
ing to prepare for winter. A grasshopper is lazy and just enjoying himself. The
ant warns the grasshopper that the sunny days will come to an end. When winter comes, the grasshopper learns just how right the ant was.
jumped from a
bouncy leaf to
and
. He was enjoying the
Story Completion
, play-
The little ant shook her head and went back to work. She
and nally
.
The grasshopper saw the ant working nearly every day. And every
day he just
. Soon it began
The snow
hopper understood
. He
119
120
Exercise 4.3 Im No Cook! The story line: A man is taking care of his children
and his house by himself. He wants to make a nice supper for his children.
Although he prepares the foods carefully, he makes some mistakes, and the family has to go to a restaurant for dinner.
. Our
. John was
Everything started out smoothly the rst day. I cleaned the kitchen
and
. I ironed
and took the dog
because
Story Completion
. I peeled a cucumber
. I sprinkled
over the salad and went to place it
in the refrigerator. But when I placed the bowl on the shelf in the refrigerator, the shelf broke and
. I sprinkled salt
121
122
and pepper
and
. I peeled three potatoes and
six
and
Before I put the roast in the oven, I checked the shelf. I didnt want
. Then I carefully put the
roast in the oven and
They hurried into the kitchen and took their seats. John was hungry,
and Anne
!
.
Story Completion
Exercise 4.4 The Circle of Stones. The story line: Two women claim to be the
mother of a lost child. A judge has to decide which woman is the real mother.
By using a test he discovers which woman treats the child the most kindly and
awards her the child.
This was the strangest case the judge had ever had. A child had been
lost for
and
. The poor child did not know its real
mother, because
. Two
.
The rst woman told of
when
? The rst
123
124
. Each
because the second woman would not harm the child. Therefore I am
certain that
He gave the child to the second woman and sent the rst woman
. The child had been reunited
with its rightful mother, who
Story Completion
Exercise 4.5 The Joke. The story line: A boy takes a girl sledding. As they zoom
down a hill, he whispers affectionately in her ear. But she is not certain what
she hears. Later she marries and moves away. When she is old, she returns to
her hometown and plays the same trick on her friend from the past.
.
, he sat behind Lara
and
rst, but
and
. They built up speed, and by now
. Lara screamed with
. He
.
. So, as
.
.
And he said in a rush, I love you, Lara. She began to blush. She wasnt
125
126
sure
Was
When she returned to her hometown many years later, she learned that
Victor
old now and
it was time for
,
. The wind was blow. The leaves
. Victor
Story Completion
. Then she
and said in a whisper, I
Exercise 4.6 The Worst Day of My Life. The story line: A man is driving to visit
some friends in another city. But he has many problems. His car stalls. It starts
to rain. He gets splattered with mud. And he loses his money. Worst of all, his
friends are not at home.
Everyone has a bad day now and then. But I had the worst. It happened while I was visiting
around dusk.
127
128
to
.I
. As I stepped
Story Completion
I didnt realize how far it still was to their house. When I arrived at their
house,
. When I reached
. Well see
Exercise 4.7 The Desert. The story line: A family moves out West. The brother
loves riding his pony. The sister loves playing in the desert. One day the sister
gets lost, and the brother rides out to nd her. When he discovers her, he sees
something dangerous crawling in her direction. The boy saves his sister.
129
130
. Jimmy liked
and thought the West was
just
.
His little sister, Laura, was ve and loved
. She often played in the desert and
. Jimmy warned her not to
, but Laura
, which
was very far from their house. When she didnt come home for lunch,
everyone
He rode as far as
. Then he
. By three oclock he had
ridden
, but he couldnt
. He was ready to cry or
even
Then he saw it! It was a large
where Laura often
rode up to
.
,
. He
. And there was
Story Completion
. She
didnt see
. He missed! He
and saved
his sister.
Exercise 4.8 The Hero. The story line: A girl lives with her grandfather in a cozy
house. One cold day they build a re in the replace. Its very warm in the room
and they fall asleep. The girl wakes up to see that the re has spread into the
room. She puts out the re and saves her grandfather.
,
. There is a large
,
.
131
132
walls
was
. He
. Anna curled
Anna suddenly opened her eyes. Something was wrong! She smelled
! She saw
and
. The
Story Completion
and
water
out, and
. When Grandfa-
Exercise 4.9 The Pickpocket. The story line: A thief is watching the crowds of
people on the street. When he sees an easy victim, he sneaks up and steals the
victims wallet or purse. Finally a policewoman sees what he is doing and arrests
him. The policewoman nds what the thief has stolen, and the man is sent
to jail.
,
. He came up behind
133
134
. The
He pulled out
. Mike
, Mike
decided
and
. He got away that time
and knew
woman
him and
. Mike dropped
Story Completion
and tried
. But the policewoman had
; Mike was caught. He knew he couldnt get away now
and said,
. The policewoman
, the
. Trying
But no one believed him. For the next few months Mike
.
Exercise 4.10 Laddy to the Rescue. The story line: When a little girl goes for a
walk, she soon nds that she is lost. She becomes frightened by a noise in an
empty house and runs off to hide. Her dog senses that something has happened
to her and hurries out to look for her. Finally he nds her and leads her home,
where he receives a reward.
During
, a seven-year-
.
.
. The little girl walked
135
136
Soon
;
, but Laddy
.
Suddenly there was a familiar scent on the ground. Laddy lowered his
head and
and left. He barked
Laddy
. He looked right
. Then
until he found
Story Completion
. A few
. When
Exercise 4.11 The Day I Got Fired. The story line: A man has a job in a factory.
His foreman doesnt like him and treats him poorly. When the man arrives late
for work one day, the foreman threatens to re him. And when the man ruins
an important job, he does get red. Fortunately, he has a better job now.
137
138
and began
Story Completion
After lunch I started soldering some new circuit boards. They had
to be shipped to
. I was
hurrying because
. But I
!
I never went back there again. And now I have a better job, and my
boss is
Exercise 4.12 The Blind Date. The story line: A young man decides that its time
to date again after ending a long relationship. His friend sets him up with a blind
date. The young man and woman discover they have a lot in common and begin
dating regularly. Finally they decide to marry and start a family.
139
140
, so I
was interested to meet her. At eight P.M. on Saturday, I left home and
. I went in and took a seat
near
woman who
Story Completion
Exercise 4.13 No More Used Cars! The story line: A woman wants to buy a used
car because she cannot afford a new car. She nally nds one that looks good,
but it doesnt run well. It breaks down regularly. Finally the woman pays for a
tune-up, and the car runs better. But she hopes she doesnt have to buy another
used car.
141
142
. I had to make
a compromise between
and
. I nally found a
with a little rust on it, but
it seemed to run
and sounded
. My brother was impressed with my
But my father was skeptical. He laughed and said to me, Used cars
.
Story Completion
My new car ran well for a long time. Then on a very cold morning in January, I went to the garage and
. But the car
. Finally the
. One of my
, and I
143
144
was stuck in the middle of the street. I got it started again, and two
blocks later the radiator
. My father
And I learned a lesson: if youre going to buy a used car, you had better
Exercise 4.14 Computers Can Be Dumb. The story line: A man has to use a com-
puter in his new job. But the computer acts like the mans enemy. It makes mistakes and provides wrong information. The man is eventually red. But a few
days later he is rehired because the management discovered that the computer
was faulty.
Story Completion
. In
, but
As I gained more experience, the computer seemed to make more mistakes. Id type in one number, and the computer
. I complained to my boss that the computer I
was using
. He laughed
and told me to
.I
come
from? I didnt type in those things. I knew it was the computer trying
.
145
146
? I said
? It was
too incredible.
Then I got the news. The manager sent word to my boss that
. The next day I got my
nal paycheck. My boss said my work had too many mistakes and
. He told me to
. I went home and felt
.
Two days later I got a telephone call. It was the manager. He said
that
I returned to work the next day and sat down to a new computer.
This one was friendly, and we
Story Completion
Exercise 4.15 How I Became a Millionaire. The story line: A woman receives
the news that she has won a large sum of money. She and her friend go on a
buying spree and live like royalty. Her friend suggests she put some of her money
in the bank. After enjoying her riches for only a short time, the woman wakes
up. It was all a dream.
147
148
the rest on
. Why not? I
was a millionaire!
I bought several new dresses for myself, and for Anna
. She was elated and said,
. We both loved shoes, so
. And I stocked up on
and
Story Completion
. It wasnt
fair!
I had been a millionaire for
Just like so many others, I had only dreamed it. My wealth was just
.
149
Writing Letters
The Friendly Letter
The friendly letter is exactly what youd think it would be: a casual letter that is
sent to a friend. The style is informal, and the content is personal. It reads very
much like what you would be saying if you were chatting with a friend. The
content can be intimate or informative or can even be a request. It is up to you,
the writer, to put the thoughts on paper that you wish to send to a friend.
There are some simple rules to follow when writing a friendly letter:
Put the date at the upper left or right of the page. You may add your
address below the date, but it is optional.
June 30, 2009
2990 West Main Street
Johnstown, IL 60622
Begin with a greeting. You can show affection or love in the greeting.
Dear Mary,
Dearest Mom and Dad,
My beloved Mary,
Close the letter at the lower right or left. You can express affection or
love in the closing as in the opening.
Sincerely yours,
Affectionately,
With all my love,
151
152
You can add a postscript with a nal thought at the very end.
P.S.
Notice that the greeting and the closing are followed by a comma (for example,
Dear Mary, and Sincerely yours,).
Look at the three possibilities for the greeting of a friendly letter. Greetings
can be friendly, affectionate, or loving:
FRIENDLY
GREETINGS
AFFECTIONATE
GREETINGS
LOVING
GREETINGS
Dear Mary,
My Dearest Mary,
My Beloved Mary,
My Dear Mary,
Dearest Mary,
My Darling Mary,
Hello, Mary,
My Dearest,
My Sweet,
Hi, Mary,
Dearest,
My Darling,
Darling,
AFFECTIONATE
CLOSINGS
LOVING
CLOSINGS
Sincerely,
Fondly,
Love,
Sincerely yours,
Affectionately,
Lovingly,
Truly,
Truly yours,
I love you,
Yours truly,
Yours sincerely,
Writing Letters
153
154
Exercise 5.1 Compose a friendly letter by lling in each of the following boxes
with the suggested information. Put two or three sentences in each of the three
boxes in the body of the letter.
Date
Your address
Greeting
Closing
Writing Letters
Exercise 5.2 Compose a friendly letter by lling in each of the following boxes
with the suggested information. Put two or three sentences in each of the three
boxes in the body of the letter.
Date
Your address
Greeting
Closing
155
156
Exercise 5.3 Compose a friendly letter by lling in each of the following boxes
with the suggested information. Put two or three sentences in each of the three
boxes in the body of the letter.
Date
Your address
Greeting
Write about the kind of house you would like to own someday
Closing
Exercise 5.4 Following the format shown in the rst three exercises, write a
Writing Letters
Most individuals do not use letterhead, so the examples of business letters given
here will be for paper without a letterhead.
There are several possible parts to a business letter. Compare these to the
parts of a friendly letter:
Start with the date on the left. Then include your return address, about
two lines below the date. Your phone number is often included
immediately following your address.
June 30, 2009
2990 West Main Street
Johnstown, IL 60622
(311) 555-1234
Skip a line and then type the name of the person to whom you are
writing followed by the company name and address.
Ms. Mary Brown
Jones Medical Center
400 East Oak Street
Johnstown, IL 60634
If you dont know the name of the person to whom you should be
writing, use an attention line to identify who should be looking at your
letter (manager, accountant, etc.).
Attention: Billing Manager
157
158
Skip a line and then begin the body of the letter. Use as many lines or
paragraphs as necessary to express why you have written to this person.
I am a patient who . . .
Type your full name and title (Manager, Chairperson, etc.) after the
space left for your signature.
[Your typed name]
[Your title]
If someone else typed your letter, show your initials in capital letters
(WS), followed by a slash, followed by the initials of the person who
typed the letter in lower case (bk).
WS/bk
If you are enclosing a document with your letter, skip a line and indicate
that at the end of the letter.
Enclosure (1)
Writing Letters
Sample 1 You know the name of the person to whom you are writing.
William Green
WG/bk
Enclosure (1)
159
160
Sample 2 You do not know the name of the person to whom you are writing.
William Green
WG/bk
Enclosure (1)
Writing Letters
with the suggested information. Put two or three sentences in each of the three
boxes in the body of the letter. You are complaining about a defective product.
Date
Your address
Subject:
161
162
Greeting
A polite statement
Closing
Your name
Writing Letters
Exercise 5.6 Compose a business letter by lling in each of the following boxes
with the suggested information. Put two or three sentences in each of the three
boxes in the body of the letter. Inquire about job opportunities in a large
business.
Date
Your address
Subject:
Greeting
163
164
A polite statement
Closing
Your name
Exercise 5.7 Compose a business letter by lling in each of the following boxes
with the suggested information. Put two or three sentences in each of the three
boxes in the body of the letter. Complain about a poorly heated apartment and
what you want done. You do not know the name of the person to whom you
are writing.
Date
Your address
Writing Letters
Attention:
Subject:
A nal statement
Closing
165
166
Your name
Exercise 5.8 Write a business letter to a travel agency to get information about
a trip you would like to take. You can get the address of a travel agency in the
phone book.
Exercise 5.9 Write a business letter to a professional sports team to get its
schedule of games for the next season. You can get the address of a sports team
in the phone book.
use the same amount of time for each exercise. That will help you follow your
progress more objectively. Look at the suggested structures and, if you wish, use
them anywhere in your theme. You should write at least three paragraphs on
each theme.
Exercise 6.1 The Car Ive Always Wanted
167
168
169
170
Some helpful vocabulary words: lottery, wealth, extravagance, mansion, limousine, charity
Exercise 6.10 My First Job
Make this nal exercise creative and challenging by writing the story of your
own life. You will likely use all of the structures mentioned previously and
you should use a wide variety of vocabulary words.
171
Appendix A
PRESENT TENSE
PAST TENSE
PAST PARTICIPLE
am, are, is
was, were
been
bear
bore
born, borne
beat
beat
beat, beaten
become
became
become
begin
began
begun
bend
bent
bent
bet
bet
bet
bind
bound
bound
bleed
bled
bled
blow
blew
blown
break
broke
broken
bring
brought
brought
build
built
built
burn
burned, burnt
burned, burnt
buy
bought
bought
can
could
catch
caught
caught
choose
chose
chosen
cost
cost
cost
creep
crept
crept
cut
cut
cut
dig
dug
dug
do
did
done
draw
drew
drawn
drink
drank
drunk
drive
drove
driven
eat
ate
eaten
173
174
Appendix A
PRESENT TENSE
PAST TENSE
PAST PARTICIPLE
fall
fell
fallen
feed
fed
fed
feel
felt
felt
ght
fought
fought
nd
found
found
ew
own
forget
forgot
forgot, forgotten
freeze
froze
frozen
get
got
got, gotten
give
gave
given
go
went
gone
grow
grew
grown
hang
hung
hung
have, has
had
had
hear
heard
heard
hide
hid
hidden
hit
hit
hit
hold
held
held
hurt
hurt
hurt
keep
kept
kept
know
knew
known
lay
laid
laid
lead
led
led
leap
leaped, leapt
leaped, leapt
leave
left
left
let
let
let
lie
lay
lain
light
lit, lighted
lit, lighted
lose
lost
lost
make
made
made
may
might
mean
meant
meant
pay
paid
paid
put
put
put
read
read
read
ride
rode
ridden
ring
rang
rung
rise
rose
risen
PRESENT TENSE
PAST TENSE
PAST PARTICIPLE
run
ran
run
say
said
said
see
saw
seen
sell
sold
sold
send
sent
sent
shake
shook
shaken
shoot
shot
shot
show
showed
shown
shut
shut
shut
sing
sang
sung
sink
sank
sunk
sit
sat
sat
sleep
slept
slept
speak
spoke
spoken
speed
sped
sped
spend
spent
spent
spring
sprang
sprung
stand
stood
stood
steal
stole
stolen
stink
stank, stunk
stunk
swear
swore
sworn
swim
swam
swum
take
took
taken
teach
taught
taught
tear
tore
torn
tell
told
told
think
thought
thought
throw
threw
thrown
understand
understood
understood
wear
wore
worn
wed
wedded
wedded, wed
will
would
win
won
won
work
worked, wrought
worked, wrought
write
wrote
written
175
Appendix B
TO WORK
TO BORROW
work
borrow
you
work
borrow
he/she/it
works
borrows
we
work
borrow
you (pl.)
work
borrow
they
work
borrow
TO KISS
TO WASH
kiss
wash
you
kiss
wash
he/she/it
kisses
washes
we
kiss
wash
you (pl.)
kiss
wash
they
kiss
wash
TO TRY
TO FLY
try
you
try
he/she/it
tries
ies
177
178
Appendix B
PRONOUN
TO TRY
TO FLY
we
try
you (pl.)
try
they
try
TO SAY
TO BUY
say
buy
you
say
buy
he/she/it
says
buys
we
say
buy
you (pl.)
say
buy
they
say
buy
TO GO
TO DO
go
do
you
go
do
he/she/it
goes
does
we
go
do
you (pl.)
go
do
they
go
do
MUST
SHOULD
TO BE ABLE TO
TO HAVE TO
must
should
am able to
have to
you
must
should
are able to
have to
he/she/it
must
should
is able to
has to
we
must
should
are able to
have to
you (pl.)
must
should
are able to
have to
they
must
should
are able to
have to
TO BE
TO HURRY
TO FEEL
am being
am hurrying
am feeling
you
are being
are hurrying
are feeling
he/she/it
is being
is hurrying
is feeling
we
are being
are hurrying
are feeling
you (pl.)
are being
are hurrying
are feeling
they
are being
are hurrying
are feeling
TO BE
TO HAVE
am
have
you
are
have
he/she/it
is
has
we
are
have
you (pl.)
are
have
they
are
have
TO PLAY
TO ASK
played
asked
you
played
asked
he/she/it
played
asked
we
played
asked
you (pl.)
played
asked
they
played
asked
TO KNOW
TO SEE
knew
saw
you
knew
saw
he/she/it
knew
saw
we
knew
saw
you (pl.)
knew
saw
they
knew
saw
179
180
Appendix B
TO MAKE
TO DO
made
did
you
made
did
he/she/it
made
did
we
made
did
you (pl.)
made
did
they
made
did
TO GO
TO BE
went
was
you
went
were
he/she/it
went
was
we
went
were
you (pl.)
went
were
they
went
were
TO BUY
TO TEACH
bought
taught
you
bought
taught
he/she/it
bought
taught
we
bought
taught
you (pl.)
bought
taught
they
bought
taught
MUST
SHOULD
TO BE ABLE TO
TO HAVE TO
must have
should have
was able to
had to
you
must have
should have
were able to
had to
he/she/it
must have
should have
was able to
had to
PRONOUN
MUST
SHOULD
TO BE ABLE TO
TO HAVE TO
we
must have
should have
were able to
had to
you (pl.)
must have
should have
were able to
had to
they
must have
should have
were able to
had to
TO BE
TO HURRY
TO FEEL
was being
was hurrying
was feeling
you
were being
were hurrying
were feeling
he/she/it
was being
was hurrying
was feeling
we
were being
were hurrying
were feeling
you (pl.)
were being
were hurrying
were feeling
they
were being
were hurrying
were feeling
TO LOOK
TO TRY
have/had looked
have/had tried
you
have/had looked
have/had tried
he/she/it
has/had looked
has/had tried
we
have/had looked
have/had tried
you (pl.)
have/had looked
have/had tried
they
have/had looked
have/had tried
TO KEEP
TO SLEEP
TO SEND
have/had kept
have/had slept
have/had sent
you
have/had kept
have/had slept
have/had sent
he/she/it
has/had kept
has/had slept
has/had sent
we
have/had kept
have/had slept
have/had sent
you (pl.)
have/had kept
have/had slept
have/had sent
they
have/had kept
have/had slept
have/had sent
181
182
Appendix B
TO SPEAK
TO TAKE
have/had spoken
have/had taken
you
have/had spoken
have/had taken
he/she/it
has/had spoken
has/had taken
we
have/had spoken
have/had taken
you (pl.)
have/had spoken
have/had taken
they
have/had spoken
have/had taken
TO FIND
TO CUT
TO SING
have/had gone
have/had found
have/had cut
have/had sung
you
have/had gone
have/had found
have/had cut
have/had sung
he/she/it
has/had gone
has/had found
has/had cut
has/had sung
we
have/had gone
have/had found
have/had cut
have/had sung
you (pl.)
have/had gone
have/had found
have/had cut
have/had sung
they
have/had gone
have/had found
have/had cut
have/had sung
TO GO
TO SAY
you
he/she/it
we
you (pl.)
they
TO HOPE
TO UNDERSTAND
I*
will hope
will understand
you
will hope
will understand
he/she/it
will hope
will understand
we*
will hope
will understand
you (pl.)
will hope
will understand
they
will hope
will understand
TO GO
TO SAY
I*
will be going
will be saying
you
will be going
will be saying
he/she/it
will be going
will be saying
we*
will be going
will be saying
you (pl.)
will be going
will be saying
they
will be going
will be saying
TO LOOK
TO SPEAK
I*
you
he/she/it
we*
you (pl.)
they
183
184
Appendix B
TO GO
TO SAY
I*
you
he/she/it
we*
you (pl.)
they
TO BE
TO HAVE
TO DO
TO LOOK
be
have
do
look
you
be
have
do
look
he/she/it
be
have
do
look
we
be
have
do
look
you (pl.)
be
have
do
look
they
be
have
do
look
TO BE
TO HAVE
TO DO
TO LOOK
were
had
did
looked
you
were
had
did
looked
he/she/it
were
had
did
looked
we
were
had
did
looked
you (pl.)
were
had
did
looked
they
were
had
did
looked
TO BE
TO SEE
would be
would see
you
would be
would see
he/she/it
would be
would see
we
would be
would see
you (pl.)
would be
would see
they
would be
would see
TO BE HELPED
TO BE SEEN
TO BE LEFT
am helped
am seen
am left
you
are helped
are seen
are left
he/she/it
is helped
is seen
is left
we
are helped
are seen
are left
you (pl.)
are helped
are seen
are left
they
are helped
are seen
are left
TO BE HELPED
TO BE SEEN
TO BE LEFT
am being helped
am being seen
am being left
you
he/she/it
is being helped
is being seen
is being left
we
you (pl.)
they
185
186
Appendix B
TENSE
TO BE ANNOUNCED
TO BE TAKEN
Present
it is announced
it is taken
Past
it was announced
it was taken
Present Perfect
Past Perfect
Future
it will be announced
it will be taken
31 The Imperative
COMMAND TYPE
TO BE
TO GO
TO HAVE
you
Be.
Run.
Have.
you (pl.)
Be.
Run.
Have.
Let's
Let's be.
Let's run.
Let's have.
Answer Key
Exercise 1.1
1. Her brother looked for us. Her brother had looked for us. Her brother will
look for us.
2. Are you looking for your wallet? Have you been looking for your wallet?
Had you been looking for your wallet? Will you be looking for your
wallet?
3. Does she help Tom? Did she help Tom? Has she helped Tom? Had she
helped Tom?
4. I dont ll out the application. I didnt ll out the application. I hadnt
lled out the application. I wont ll out the application.
5. Did they play soccer? Have they played soccer? Had they played soccer?
Will they play soccer?
6. He is making a good salary. He was making a good salary. He has been
making a good salary. He had been making a good salary.
7. Juan visits his aunt and uncle. Juan visited his aunt and uncle. Juan has
visited his aunt and uncle. Juan will visit his aunt and uncle. Juan will have
visited his aunt and uncle.
8. She carries the child to her bed. She has carried the child to her bed. She
had carried the child to her bed. She will carry the child to her bed.
9. My sister often dated Michael. My sister has often dated Michael. My
sister had often dated Michael. My sister will often date Michael.
10. They hire him. They hired him. They had hired him. They will hire him.
11. How do they do that? How have they done that? How had they done
that? How will they do that?
12. The boys never eat broccoli. The boys never ate broccoli. The boys have
never eaten broccoli. The boys had never eaten broccoli.
13. I was studying for an exam. I have been studying for an exam. I had been
studying for an exam. I will be studying for an exam.
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188
Answer Key
14. The manager res the entire staff. The manager red the entire staff.
The manager has red the entire staff. The manager will re the entire
staff.
15. She teaches herself to play the guitar. She has taught herself to play the
guitar. She had taught herself to play the guitar. She will teach herself to
play the guitar.
Exercise 1.2
1. Her brother was very rich. Her brother had been very rich. Her brother
will be very rich.
2. Are the children good? Have the children been good? Had the children
been good? Will the children be good?
3. Is she ill? Was she ill? Has she been ill? Had she been ill?
4. I am not angry at all. I was not angry at all. I had not been angry at all. I
will not be angry at all.
5. Did you go there often? Have you gone there often? Had you gone there
often? Will you go there often?
6. What do you do? What did you do? What have you done? What had you
done?
7. The girls have a bad day. The girls had a bad day. The girls have had a bad
day. The girls will have a bad day. The girls will have had a bad day.
8. Maria has ten dollars. Maria has had ten dollars. Maria had had ten
dollars. Maria will have ten dollars.
9. My brother did nothing all day. My brother has done nothing all day. My
brother had done nothing all day. My brother will do nothing all day.
10. They dont go to the movies. They didnt go to the movies. They hadnt
gone to the movies. They wont go to the movies.
11. We get a letter from a distant relative. We have gotten a letter from a
distant relative. We had gotten a letter from a distant relative. We will
get a letter from a distant relative.
12. Dont you expect that? Didnt you expect that? Havent you expected
that? Wont you expect that?
13. Mr. Phillips was writing a novel. Mr. Phillips has been writing a novel. Mr.
Phillips had been writing a novel. Mr. Phillips will be writing a novel.
14. Carmen doesnt believe you. Carmen didnt believe you. Carmen hasnt
believed you. Carmen hadnt believed you.
15. Do you stop for gas there? Did you stop for gas there? Had you stopped
for gas there? Will you stop for gas there?
Answer Key
Exercise 1.3
1. Mark liked the new girl. Mark had liked the new girl. Mark will like the
new girl.
2. Her boss was trying to understand. Her boss has been trying to
understand. Her boss had been trying to understand. Her boss will be
trying to understand.
3. The letter carriers go into the ofce. The letter carriers have gone into
the ofce. The letter carriers had gone into the ofce. The letter carriers
will go into the ofce. The letter carriers will have gone into the ofce.
4. Are you talking to Richard? Have you been talking to Richard? Had you
been talking to Richard? Will you be talking to Richard?
5. His son breaks a window. His son broke a window. His son had broken a
window. His son will break a window.
6. The secretary is writing letters. The secretary was writing letters. The
secretary had been writing letters. The secretary will be writing letters.
7. Dont you sing, too? Didnt you sing, too? Havent you sung, too? Hadnt
you sung, too?
8. They arent going shopping. They werent going shopping. They havent
been going shopping. They hadnt been going shopping.
9. Carlos gets up before dawn. Carlos got up before dawn. Carlos has
gotten up before dawn. Carlos had gotten up before dawn. Carlos will
get up before dawn.
10. By seven-thirty he leaves for home. By seven-thirty he left for home. By
seven-thirty he has left for home. By seven-thirty he had left for home.
By seven-thirty he will leave for home.
11. Ms. Jones arrived by noon. Ms. Jones has arrived by noon. Ms. Jones had
arrived by noon. Ms. Jones will arrive by noon. Ms. Jones will have arrived
by noon.
12. He does nothing. He did nothing. He has done nothing. He will do
nothing. He will have done nothing.
13. She exercises before breakfast. She exercised before breakfast. She has
exercised before breakfast. She had exercised before breakfast. She will
have exercised before breakfast.
14. The chef roasts a turkey. The chef has roasted a turkey. The chef had
roasted a turkey. The chef will roast a turkey. The chef will have roasted a
turkey.
15. Little Tommy probably breaks it. Little Tommy probably broke it. Little
Tommy has probably broken it. Little Tommy had probably broken it.
Little Tommy will probably break it.
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Answer Key
Exercise 1.4 Note that these are example answers. Your pronouns may differ.
1. Was he on time? Have I been on time? Had she been on time? Will they
be on time?
2. Doesnt he like the book? Hadnt you liked the book? Wont they like the
book?
3. We are driving very slowly. You were driving very slowly. They had been
driving very slowly. She will be driving very slowly.
4. I nd him just in time. You found him just in time. She has found him just
in time. They will nd him just in time. He will have found him just in
time.
5. I arrange a party for her. You arranged a party for her. He has arranged a
party for her. She had arranged a party for her. We will have arranged a
party for her.
6. She brings it home by noon. I brought it home by noon. You have
brought it home by noon. They had brought it home by noon. We will
bring it home by noon.
7. I ate too much. He has eaten too much. She had eaten too much. We will
eat too much.
8. You put the tools back before lunch. He has put the tools back before
lunch. She had put the tools back before lunch. We will put the tools back
before lunch. They will have put the tools back before lunch.
9. I cut out the dress before bedtime. You have cut out the dress before
bedtime. He had cut out the dress before bedtime. We will cut out the
dress before bedtime. They will have cut out the dress before bedtime.
10. I steal the money by midnight. You stole the money by midnight. They
had stolen the money by midnight. She will steal the money by midnight.
11. We gain nothing by doing this. We gained nothing by doing this. We
have gained nothing by doing this. We had gained nothing by doing this.
We will have gained nothing by doing this.
12. They got up by seven A.M. They have gotten up by seven A.M. They had
gotten up by seven A.M.They will get up by seven A.M. They will have
gotten up by seven A.M.
13. Who wins the contest? Who won the contest? Who had won the contest?
Who will win the contest? Who will have won the contest?
14. You dont understand a thing he said. You havent understood a thing he
said. You hadnt understood a thing he said. You wont understand a
thing he said. You wont have understood a thing he said.
15. I depart before dawn. I departed before dawn. I have departed before
dawn. I had departed before dawn. I will have departed before dawn.
Answer Key
Exercise 1.5
1. Are they going to bring some dessert along?
2. Im going to be home at midnight.
3. The janitor is going to sweep the ofces after closing time.
4. He isnt going to return the money he borrowed.
5. This movie is going to be very exciting.
6. The party is going to be held at Marias house.
7. Is Martin going to apply for a new job?
8. She is probably going to spend the night at Marys apartment.
9. Are you going to order a hamburger or a hot dog?
10. The boys are going to clean the kitchen for you.
11. Someone is going to get a wonderful surprise today.
12. Professor Martin is going to travel to Egypt.
13. Are James and Tina going to attend the concert?
14. Michael and I are going to prepare lunch for you.
15. Are you going to be at home tonight?
Exercise 1.6
1. Could you hear me well enough? (Were you able to hear me well
enough?) Have you been able to hear me well enough? Had you been
able to hear me well enough? Will you be able to hear me well enough?
2. Martin wants to buy a car. Martin has wanted to buy a car. Martin had
wanted to buy a car. Martin will want to buy a car.
3. I am supposed to go home by eight oclock. I had been supposed to go
home by eight oclock.
4. Might I try on your new coat?
5. She was not able to visit you today. She has not been able to visit you
today. She had not been able to visit you today. She will not be able to
visit you today.
6. Do you have to study before the test? Did you have to study before the
test? Had you had to study before the test? Will you have to study before
the test? Will you have had to study before the test?
7. one tense shouldnt
8. one tense ought to
9. Juan had to work all day. Juan has had to work all day. Juan had had to
work all day. Juan will have to work all day. Juan will have had to work all
day.
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192
Answer Key
10. She doesnt need to get there on time. She didnt need to get there on
time. She hasnt needed to get there on time. She wont need to get
there on time.
11. They cant unlock the door. They havent been able to unlock the door.
They hadnt been able to unlock the door. They wont be able to unlock
the door.
12. I never want to become a lawyer. I never wanted to become a lawyer. I
have never wanted to become a lawyer. I will never want to become a
lawyer.
13. Jack needed to nd work again. Jack has needed to nd work again. Jack
had needed to nd work again. Jack will need to nd work again.
14. Are you able to / Can you stand up? Were you able to / Could you stand
up? Have you been able to stand up? Had you been able to stand up?
15. Susan had to get to work on time. Susan has had to get to work on time.
Susan had had to get to work on time. Susan will have to get to work on
time.
Exercise 1.7
1. James wants to borrow a book from Maria.
2. I needed to nd some extra money.
3. Mr. Sanchez must leave his luggage at the door.
4. Could you already speak English as a child?
5. We havent been able to write the whole assignment.
6. You were supposed to help me.
7. The children ought to be careful.
8. Why should they live in that little apartment?
9. I have often wanted to travel to Europe.
10. Nick may read all the books on the top shelf.
11. We will have to take the train as far as Chicago.
12. They were able to speak with very little accent.
13. Can you help the child tie his shoes?
14. The designers are supposed to turn their work in on time.
15. Will Victor have to work overtime tomorrow?
Exercise 1.8
1. We dont go to the movies.
2. He doesnt eat so fast.
3. After supper we took a little nap.
Answer Key
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Answer Key
Exercise 1.11
1. Is the window repaired? Has the window been repaired? Had the window
been repaired? Will the window be repaired? Will the window have been
repaired?
2. The dog is struck by a car. The dog has been struck by a car. The dog had
been struck by a car. The dog will be struck by a car. The dog will have
been struck by a car.
3. The package is shipped by rail. The package was shipped by rail. The
package had been shipped by rail. The package will be shipped by rail.
The package will have been shipped by rail.
4. Everything is arranged. Everything was arranged. Everything had been
arranged. Everything will be arranged. Everything will have been
arranged.
5. The fort is attacked at dawn. The fort was attacked at dawn. The fort has
been attacked at dawn. The fort will be attacked at dawn. The fort will
have been attacked at dawn.
6. Her drivers license is taken away. Her drivers license was taken away. Her
drivers license has been taken away. Her drivers license will be taken
away. Her drivers license will have been taken away.
Answer Key
7. A new song is written for the rock concert. A new song was written for
the rock concert. A new song has been written for the rock concert. A
new song had been written for the rock concert. A new song will have
been written for the rock concert.
8. Is the injured man rescued in time? Was the injured man rescued in time?
Has the injured man been rescued in time? Had the injured man been
rescued in time? Will the injured man have been rescued in time?
9. Isnt the damage noticed by then? Wasnt the damage noticed by then?
Hasnt the damage been noticed by then? Hadnt the damage been
noticed by then? Wont the damage be noticed by then?
10. The king was whisked away to safety. The king has been whisked away to
safety. The king had been whisked away to safety. The king will be
whisked away to safety. The king will have been whisked away to safety.
11. Our candidate is elected before noon. Our candidate was elected before
noon. Our candidate has been elected before noon. Our candidate had
been elected before noon. Our candidate will have been elected before
noon.
12. A protester was being removed from the meeting. A protester has been
removed from the meeting. A protester had been removed from the
meeting. A protester will be removed from the meeting. A protester will
have been removed from the meeting.
13. He is sentenced to a week in jail. He was sentenced to a week in jail. He
had been sentenced to a week in jail. He will be sentenced to a week in
jail. He will have been sentenced to a week in jail.
14. Is the dessert prepared in time? Has the dessert been prepared in time?
Had the dessert been prepared in time? Will the dessert be prepared in
time? Will the dessert have been prepared in time?
15. She is warned against saying that. She was warned against saying that.
She has been warned against saying that. She will be warned against
saying that. She will have been warned against saying that.
Exercise 1.12
1. being
2. attacked
3. was
4. been
5. be
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196
Answer Key
6. changed
7. spoken
8. wasnt
9. blown
10. been
11. has not
12. declared
13. be
14. being
15. is
16. were
17. is going
18. broken
19. be
20. to be
Exercise 1.13
1. speak
2. sing
3. nd
4. be
5. had
6. would be
7. played . . . would win
8. would have bought . . . had been
9. were
10. hire
11. had seen . . . would have reported
12. live
13. would speak . . . smiled
14. would have helped . . . had known
15. be
16. had helped
17. come
18. would come
19. learn
20. were / would approve
Answer Key
Exercise 1.14
1. If Jorge had been at home, he would have answered the telephone.
2. If you had earned enough money, you would have been able to buy the
car.
3. If Alicia had sent him a picture, he would have been the happiest man
alive.
4. I wouldnt have said such a thing if I had been the boss.
5. My brother would have sold the old radio if it had been his.
6. Would you really have kissed me if I had asked you to?
7. If Mr. Johnson had gotten a ticket, his wife would have been very angry
with him.
8. If it had snowed, they would have had to go skiing.
9. If Robert had overslept again, he would have lost his job.
10. If only my sister had been here.
11. Would you have trusted me again if I had given you my word of honor?
12. I wouldnt have liked it at all if Barbara had gone out with Bill.
13. If the carpenter had had time, he would have built you a nice cabinet.
14. If he had known the truth, he wouldnt have written such a nasty letter.
15. If Enrique had worked harder, he wouldnt have needed to work
overtime.
16. If she had seen the movie, she would have understood why I like it.
17. It would have helped a little if you had loaned us a few dollars.
18. Would you really have married Jim if he had proposed to you?
19. If you had been a rich man, you could have helped / would have been
able to help feed the poor.
20. If that had been the case, I would immediately have agreed with you.
Exercise 1.15
1. If only he saw the truck in time.
2. I wouldnt give her the money if I knew why she wanted it.
3. Would you care if I went out on a date with Carmen?
4. Maria would have to stay overnight if she missed the last train.
5. If I didnt have a at tire, I wouldnt miss the sale.
6. If only you were able to (could) forgive me.
7. The boss would re her if he saw her sleeping on the job.
8. If he needed to borrow some money, he would come to me.
9. The thief would be caught if the police arrived sooner.
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198
Answer Key
10. If the computer were repaired, the data les would be nished on time.
11. Mary would slap his face if he tried to kiss her.
12. If they arrived by noon, we would be able to have lunch together.
13. If only you were a better student.
14. Bill would become an artist if he had some money to live on.
15. There would nally be peace if the diplomats signed the treaty.
Exercise 1.17
1. We went to bed early because it was such a tiring day.
2. Can you tell me where John is working?
3. Monday is the rst day of classes, and I still have to buy some books.
4. Juan is my only brother, but I havent seen him in a year.
5. The weather is terrible today; however, the parade went on as planned.
6. She started crying when I told her I love her.
7. I dont understand how you can live in the city.
8. The soldiers let out a cheer, for the war had nally ended.
9. Tom will help you if you pay him a few dollars.
10. We didnt know where she was hiding.
11. Let me know when you will be home.
12. Its been a long time since I last saw you.
13. Do your very best, but be careful.
14. She suddenly understood where Father got the money.
15. Its difcult to understand why we should help you.
16. I cannot read your writing, therefore I have to give you a failing grade.
17. Does anyone have an idea when the train will arrive?
18. Because you are so stubborn, I wont argue with you any longer.
Answer Key
19. Marie comes from France, and Juanita comes from Mexico.
20. This vacation was a very good idea, and Im glad I came along.
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200
Answer Key
Exercise 1.20
1. He stood up slowly and looked at the jury.
2. When I saw them on the corner, I gave a little wave.
3. I knew that she was our new boss.
4. Dr. Brown often wrote about it in her diary.
5. They were really much worse than mine.
6. I truly liked his daughter a lot.
7. We hoped to buy a car together.
8. Id help if her brother would help.
9. I think that the last two chairs at the table are ours.
10. You ought to have a few words with him.
11. We had been hoping to see Aunt Susan again.
12. It is terrible.
13. No one told them that there is no school today.
14. Id really like to dance with them (both of them).
15. John gave us tickets to the baseball game.
Exercise 1.21
1. Their bedroom needs to be painted.
2. Have you met his relatives?
3. It looks like its trunk is scratched.
4. Why is its cover torn off?
5. Her aunt is a physician in one of its clinics.
6. His neighbor used to work as a gardener.
7. Her voice began to crack.
8. Was her husband a carpenter, too?
9. It is really too small for their family.
10. Id like to see their new house sometime.
11. Are their wives going to be at the party?
Answer Key
Exercise 1.22
1. ourselves
2. him
3. myself
4. her, herself
5. them
6. himself
7. yourselves
8. itself
9. themselves
10. them
11. her
12. him, himself
13. it
14. yourself
15. ourselves
16. himself
17. her
18. me
19. themselves
20. itself
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Answer Key
Exercise 1.24
1. We decided to buy the newspaper that was printed in London.
2. Helena caught a sh that was nearly two feet long.
3. Are you going to rent the apartment in which William lived?
4. I have often chatted with the policeman that my father knows.
5. There was a horrible storm, which destroyed many trees.
6. Were going to the beach that my grandparents live near.
7. May I have the bike that is in need of repair?
8. They all like the new boss, who got them pay raises.
9. Davids mother is in the hospital, which is located on Main Street.
10. Do you have the money that I put on this table?
11. The children were lost in the forest in which an ugly witch lived.
12. I dont understand the problem that you wrote about in your letter.
13. Several men found the bear whose cubs had died.
14. She shouldnt wear the dress that has a stain on it.
15. They captured the ofcer whose troops attacked the fort.
16. Thats the factory that my brothers work in.
17. Martin sold the three bicycles, which he found abandoned in the alley.
18. Maria received the money from her aunt, to whom she sent a thank-you
note.
19. I have a taste for something that is cool and refreshing.
20. Lets try on the skirt that has fewer pleats.
Exercise 1.25
1. She agreed to buy the car I saw in the city.
2. Do you have the money I lent you?
3. Wheres the lamp I put on this table?
4. Thats the fellow I got the tickets from.
5. Tom got a job in the factory my father works in.
6. Where did you nd the books I lost?
7. Juan wrote the poem Maria is reading right now.
8. Help me nd the kitten the dog chased into the garden.
9. Theres the airline pilot we visited last week.
10. The thief stole the camera I had placed on this bench a moment ago.
11. This is the heroic boy the reporter wrote about.
12. I was the one who bought the bottle of beer Robert drank.
13. Our boss red the woman he had argued with.
Answer Key
Exercise 1.27
1. I helped the young student, whose grades were terrible.
2. Wheres the fellow whose car wont start?
3. I bought an old car, the interior of which was in bad condition.
4. Wheres the woman whose husband still lives in Mexico?
5. I need a carton, the size of which has to be two feet by three feet by
three feet.
6. Juan discovered a cave, the ceiling of which was more than thirty feet
high.
7. The doctor examined the child whose temperature was over one hundred
degrees.
8. The teacher punished the boys whose behavior was awful.
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Answer Key
Exercise 1.28
1. The young mans
2. of her eyes
3. the jurys
4. the captains
5. The womens
6. of his words
7. Our teams
8. our teams
9. of these countries
10. Thomas
11. of the poem
12. The mens
13. the lions
14. of Switzerland
15. your childrens
16. of the concert
17. The geeses
18. of these countries
19. Our students
20. The little puppys
Answer Key
Exercise 1.29
1. The geese had laid golden eggs.
2. My uncles bought the houses at the edge of town.
3. The churches were damaged by the storms.
4. Soldiers carried the helpless infants to safety.
5. Did the women nd their children?
6. Strange men came up to the windows and looked in.
7. Their bosses are going to re the new employees.
8. Large boards fell on Juan and broke his feet.
9. The cities are too far from the factories.
10. The nurses covered the patients with heavy blankets.
11. Our neighbors need the tools right now.
12. Whose children gave you those magazines?
13. We saw the strangers in the back rooms.
14. The dentist has to pull the infected teeth.
15. Dont break the dishes!
Exercise 1.30
1. The boys
2. the animals
3. your parents
4. the mens
5. Mr. Roberts
6. of names
7. the airports
8. a grown woman
9. of soup
10. eggs
11. the boss
12. The tourists
13. my brothers
14. his stories
15. Toms feet
Exercise 1.31
1. My sister is prettier than my cousin.
2. Our team played poorer (or more poorly) than your team.
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Answer Key
Exercise 1.32
1. My sister is the prettiest.
2. The best recipes are in this book.
3. Your nephew does the least work around the house.
4. The most important idea in the book is learning to be patient.
5. Maria swam fastest and won a blue ribbon.
6. I have the most problems.
7. I feel that Juan is the most intelligent one.
8. Bill arrived the earliest and left the latest.
9. The oldest car costs the least money.
10. Your pronunciation is the worst.
11. I think yours is the best idea.
12. An SUV is the most logical choice for a family car.
13. My aunt has the most money.
14. Alicia spoke the most brilliantly about the Civil War.
15. This brown pup is the smallest.
16. The newest equipment runs the best.
17. The poorest people are often the loneliest.
18. John Jones is not the smartest.
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Exercise 2.1
1. isnt difcult
2. whose machine
3. him
4. back down
5. several tiny kittens
6. if
7. During
8. was more embarrassed
9. rather doubtful
10. several issues
11. nd
12. relates to me
13. wont stand
14. the richest man
15. how
16. regarding
17. the color of which
18. been
19. therefore
20. themselves
21. ought to
22. about
23. been waited on
24. where
25. Lets
26. whose
27. wasnt able
28. is going
29. After the war
30. will have
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7. The new waiter soon will have earned enough for his vacation.
8. The new waiter quit, and the cook went wild.
9. Wheres the new waiter that you hired?
10. This is the new waiter I spoke of.
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Travel Plans
John and Mary wanted to take a vacation. They had worked hard all year
and had saved every extra penny. But where should they go? To someplace
warm or to a place with interesting sightseeing?
I want to go to Mexico, Mary said. I heard its beautiful there and the
food is so interesting.
I think Id like to go to India, John replied. I want to see the great palaces
and wild tigers and elephants.
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India is so far away, Mary said to him. I think we should stay in North
America. Or we could travel to Europe if you want to go somewhere a little
more exotic.
Or how about Hawaii? John said.
But no matter how much they talked, they couldnt agree on a destination.
John believed being in a large city was important, but Mary wanted to be in
the countryside or at a beach. How could they decide what would be best for
both of them?
John opened the newspaper and saw an ad for a resort outside of Miami.
He showed Mary the article, and she thought the place looked inviting.
That sounds like fun, Mary said. Id love to spend time at that pool or
on the beach.
We could swim during the day, and at night we could go dancing or dine
in the city, John said. And we could go shopping if the weather got bad.
Mary was happy with the idea, because the beach really appealed to her
and she knew John would like visiting Miami. John wouldnt mind spending
time at the beach, because he knew that it would make his wife so happy. But
there still was a problem.
Do we have enough money for such an expensive resort? Mary suddenly
asked. Do we have enough in the bank?
John thought a moment, and then he smiled slyly at Mary. He opened the
desk drawer and pulled out a small book. He showed Mary a bank book with
some extra money he had saved, but she was still concerned that a fancy
resort was too expensive. John smiled at her and said, Dont worry. This extra
money should be enough. And if its not enough, we can borrow a little more
from the bank.
Oh, John, Mary said happily. Now we can have what we both want. This
vacation will be the best one we ever had.
Then he kissed her cheek, because seeing his wife happy was the best part
of any vacation.
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Then he saw a small black ant near a dead tree limb. She was pulling a crust
of bread through the dried leaves. She tugged and pulled, but her efforts never
seemed quite enough. Then the ant stopped for a moment to rest and laid the
crust of bread on the ground next to her. Why are you doing that? the grasshopper asked. Are you going to waste this wonderful day on such foolishness? he inquired with a laugh.
Im bringing food to our colony, the little ant replied. When winter
comes, this crust of bread will come in handy.
Winter is a long way off, the grasshopper said. Id rather sing and relax
in the sun.
You might be sorry when it turns cold and the sun is behind the clouds,
the ant warned. You should plan for your future.
But the grasshopper just laughed and stretched his long legs. He jumped
over a tin can and hopped across the long grasses, playing, singing, and being
as lazy as a grasshopper can be.
The little ant shook her head and went back to work. She put the crust of
bread on her back and nally got past the dead leaves and scurried home.
The grasshopper saw the ant working nearly every day. And every day he
just watched with amusement. Soon it began to grow cold. The wind changed
to the north and brought more cold with it. The snow began to fall and soon
covered the elds where the grasshopper played. And the grasshopper understood that the ant had been right all along. He made his way to the ant colony
and called out, I need some food and shelter. But the ants could not hear
him. They were busy feasting, and the poor grasshopper jumped from icy twig
to icy leaf in search of food and some shelter from the cold.
Im No Cook!
My wife was called away to New York on business. I took some vacation
time and decided I would take care of the house and our kids. Our two kids
were in school during the day, and in the evening they stayed home to do
homework or watch TV. They were old enough to take care of themselves, but
I had to make their meals and wash their clothes. John was eleven and spent
his time on his computer. Anne was ten and enjoyed sports like baseball and
soccer.
Everything started out smoothly the rst day. I cleaned the kitchen and
scoured the bathtub and sinks. I ironed a stack of clean laundry and took the
dog to the vet for a shot. And for lunch I made myself a meatball sandwich
with a tall glass of beer. The kids ate lunch in the school cafeteria, because
students werent allowed to come home for lunch.
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At four oclock I realized that the kids would be on their way home, so I
decided to get their supper ready. I got a recipe book from the shelf and found
what looked like a simple plan for supper. It seemed easy enough, although
there were three parts to the meal. I got the ingredients I needed out of the
cupboard: our, spices, oil, and vinegar.
I started with the salad. I rinsed a head of lettuce and then chopped it into
large wedges. I sliced tomatoes and green peppers and scattered them over the
lettuce. But I forgot to add the fresh cilantro. I peeled a cucumber and an onion
and added them to the bowl of salad. I sprinkled some oil and vinegar over
the salad and went to place it in the refrigerator. But when I placed the bowl on
the shelf in the refrigerator, the shelf broke and the bowl fell and shattered,
and salad went everywhere.
I couldnt believe my eyes. There were lettuce and tomatoes on the oor
and green peppers and cucumbers on my shoes. I grabbed a broom and swept
up most of it. Then I got a bucket and scrub brush in order to clean the oor
and refrigerator. When I was done, I sat down and rested up from the ordeal.
The roast looked easier to prepare. I placed it in a large pan and covered it
with our and spices. I sprinkled salt and pepper over the whole roast and
placed pieces of garlic across the top. I peeled three potatoes and six large carrots and placed them around the roast. Before I put the roast in the oven, I
checked the shelf. I didnt want another accident to happen. Then I carefully
put the roast in the oven and checked the shelf one more time.
For dessert I made vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce and nuts. That
was Annes favorite, and John would eat anything that was sweet. I put the
three bowls of dessert on the counter. About four-thirty I heard my son and
daughter come in. They went to their rooms to start their homework.
I set the table and then called them down to supper. They hurried into the
kitchen and took their seats. John was hungry, and Anne sniffed the air trying
to gure out what was on the menu. But something had gone wrong. I hadnt
put the dessert in the refrigerator, and the ice cream had melted! And I had
forgotten to turn on the oven, so the roast was just a piece of raw esh!
The kids looked sad and began to complain that they were hungry. So we
got in the car, and I took them to a little Mexican caf down the street. We all
love tacos and fajitas.
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its real mother, because it had been an infant when it was lost. Two women
claimed to be the real mother and demanded the right to take the child home.
The judge needed more information rst and decided to interrogate the two
women.
The rst woman told of a terrible ood in her village, when people were
running for their lives and children were separated from their parents. The
judge understood but asked, Why didnt you return after the ood to look
for the child? The rst woman just shook her head and said that she believed
the child had died. Now the second woman gave her story, which told of bandits who stole her cart, in which her baby had been sleeping. She explained
that she looked for the bandits and her child for weeks, but they had disappeared into the countryside, and the judge believed her. But who is the real
mother? the judge thought. He looked at the child and asked, Do you know
which of these women is your mother? But the sobbing child could only reply,
I dont remember my mother.
Then we shall have a test, the judge said with a clever look on his face.
He placed the child in a ring of stones and told the two women to stand on
either side of the child. Each took the child by one hand, and they were told
to pull the child out of the ring of stones. They pulled to the right and then
to the left, and the child began to move one way and then the other.
The women pulled again, but once more the child did not leave the ring
of stones. Finally the rst woman saw her chance and pulled as hard as she
could. The child fell forward and rolled out of the ring of stones. The rst
woman laughed and proclaimed, I have won, and the child is mine. The second woman began to sob, because she couldnt bear to hurt the child anymore.
And the child sat on the ground, shaking and looking anxiously at the rst
woman.
The judge stood up and said, No, the second woman is the winner,
because the second woman would not harm the child. Therefore I am certain
that she is the real mother.
He gave the child to the second woman and sent the rst woman back to
her village with a sharp reprimand. The child had been reunited with its rightful mother, who embraced her and carried her off to their home.
The Joke
It was a cold day in the northern regions. Victor and Lara were school
friends and decided to enjoy the weather and the snow. The snow was fresh
and the hill was inviting, so they pulled their sled up the steep slope. When
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Victor had placed the sled in the perfect position, he sat behind Lara and
leaned close to her. They went slowly at rst, but as the runners of the sled
met an icy patch, they picked up speed and began a swift downward course.
They built up speed, and by now the air was rushing around them. Lara
screamed with delight, and Victor bellowed pretended words of fear. He liked
Lara a lot but was afraid she had no real interest in him. He wasnt shy, but it
was difcult to tell a girl how you felt. So, as they whizzed down the hill, he
thought of a joke that would let him say what he had in his heart. As the air
rushed past their ears, Victor leaned forward and whispered, I love you, Lara.
Lara didnt seem to hear him, so she leaned back against his face. And he said
in a hush, I love you, Lara. She began to blush. She wasnt sure what she had
really heard. Was it the wind? Was it her own thoughts? Was it Victor?
At the bottom of the hill, Victor looked at Lara, who cast a questioning
glance at him. But he only smiled and pulled the sled back to his home. He
could not say how he felt and only spoke of the snow and the cold weather.
They grew up, and Lara went off to live in the capital. While living there,
she married, raised a family, and in time buried her husband. When she
returned to her hometown many years later, she learned that Victor had never
married and still lived in the same old house. They were both old now and
spending their nal years with books and naps. Lara decided it was time for
a little joke of her own.
She saw Victor sitting in a lawn chair near a fence. She came up behind him
on the other side of the fence and listened to his restful breathing. She peeked
at him over the fence and saw that he was old and frail. And through a wide
crack in one of the boards, Lara whispered, I love you, too, Victor. The wind
was blowing hard and rushing past his old ears. The leaves were rustling above
his gray head. Victor wasnt sure he had heard correctly. Is someone there?
he asked, looking around. But there was no answer. Lara stood silently and felt
tears welling in her eyes. Then she leaned against the fence once more and
said in a whisper, I love you, too, Victor.
The joke was on both of them.
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The Desert
Jimmy was only eight when his parents decided to leave the city to live in
the country. They moved to a large ranch near a desert surrounded by a
mountain range. It was a wonderful place to live, but a bit lonely at times.
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Jimmy liked the playground at his old school in the city and thought the West
was just a lot of sand and too much open space.
His little sister, Laura, was ve and loved the outdoors and the little wild
animals. She often played in the desert and spent time looking at the strange
plants and chasing the friendly creatures she found. Jimmy warned her not
to go too far from the ranch, but Laura knew what she liked and did what she
wanted.
One day Laura hiked toward an interesting-looking hill, which was very
far from their house. When she didnt come home for lunch, everyone knew
she was lost in the desert somewhere. Jimmy was very worried. He got on his
pony and began galloping across the sand. He rode as far as the creek on the
other side of the ranch. Then he rode through the eld of gopher holes where
his sister often played. By three oclock he had ridden over acres of desert, but
he couldnt nd a trace of his sister. He was ready to cry or even just give up
hope and go home.
Then he saw it! It was a large hill, where Laura often went to collect owers. He rode up to the foot of the hill. And there was Laura asleep next to a
patch of white daisies. She didnt see the rattlesnake, which was crawling in
her direction. Jimmy jumped from his pony and moved silently toward his sister and the snake. He took his lasso, swirled it overhead, and then threw it
above the snake. He missed! He had to try again, so he threw the rope carefully into the air, and it landed over the rattlers head, and this time he caught
the snake and pulled it back into the brush and saved his sister.
The Hero
In winter it gets very cold in northern Alaska, because its located near the
Arctic Circle. A lot of snow falls to the ground, and a lot of icicles hang from
the rooines of houses.
Little Annas house stays warm and quite cozy, because it has thick log
walls that protect everyone from the wind and cold. There is a large replace
in the dining room, where her grandfather keeps a roaring re day and night.
Anna loves reading or playing near the re, while her grandfather works his
crossword puzzles or just dozes.
One chilly December day, when the temperature was falling quickly,
Grandfather noticed the re was getting low. He went out to the barn and
returned with an enormous bundle of rewood. Anna liked helping and
placed pieces of oak and maple in the replace. Soon the re was large
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enough to heat the house properly again. The dining room glowed with dancing red lights. The shadows on the walls moved from side to side, and everything in the house was warm and cheerful. Grandfather sat in his big, old
armchair and soon relaxed in the warmth coming from the hearth. He put his
feet on a footstool and wiggled his toes. Anna curled up on the oor under a
small blanket. Everything was quiet and perfect for a little snooze.
Anna suddenly opened her eyes. Something was wrong! She smelled the
strong scent of smoke! She saw embers on the oor and ames on the drapes!
She jumped up and looked around at the entire room. The re was no longer
just in the replace. The rugs and drapes were on re! Anna shook her grandfather, but he was in a deep sleep. She ran to the sink and lled a pot with
water. She began throwing water on the growing ames. Finally the re was
out, and the smoke had gone up the chimney. When Grandfather awoke, he
said, It looks like we need more wood for our re.
Anna just shook her head and smiled.
The Pickpocket
It was a hot day, and crowds of tourists wandered down Main Street. People enjoyed holiday time like this and looked in shop windows and enjoyed
the warmth of a summers afternoon. It was a happy time for Mike because it
was the perfect time to acquire some money. Mike knew there would be a lot
of pockets that were bulging with cash. The crowds were enormous, and everyone was busy looking around or just chatting. Mike couldnt have been happier if he had found the sidewalk littered with bills. When he thought the
moment was right, he walked slowly down the street and waited for a tourist
to come by. Finally he saw an elderly woman, who was very busy windowshopping. He came up behind her and carefully reached into her purse. The
poor woman was aware of nothing and continued to look at the goods in the
window. Her husband turned suddenly, but Mike ran off into the crowd
before he could stop him. On the corner Mike saw another preoccupied
woman, who had a heavy purse over her shoulder. Mike stood next to her and
then pretended to stumble. He pulled out a wallet from the womans purse.
Mike smiled; he was very happy with himself and walked briskly through the
crowds of people.
When he saw a man with a bulging back pocket, Mike decided there was
time for one more theft and soon was in possession of another wallet. He got
away that time and knew he had been lucky. But the policewoman on the curb
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had been watching Mike. Mike couldnt see the ofcer observing him and
tried still another theft. When he slid his ngers into a mans jacket pocket,
he was surprised to feel a strong hand on his arm. The policewoman had been
watching him and had run up to Mike as he stole the wallet. Mike dropped the
wallet and tried to make a run for it. But the policewoman had him rmly in
her grip; Mike was caught. He knew he couldnt get away now and said, I
should have stopped with three. The policewoman just laughed and replied,
You never should have started at all.
When they got to the police station, the ofcers there found the other three
wallets. Trying to explain, Mike said, I found them. But no one believed him.
For the next few months Mike would have time behind bars to think about
his life as a pickpocket.
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back to the woods. Something caught his eye; Laddy suddenly saw his mistress
blue shirt. He jumped over some bushes and headed straight for her. A few
moments later he saw the little stream, where the little girl was sound asleep.
When she saw her dog standing over her, she said, You rescued me, Laddy,
and the little girl kissed him several times.
Laddy led his little mistress out of the woods and across the meadow to
her home. Mother and Father were so relieved. And that night Laddy had a
heros supper: steak with gravy.
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dirty and there was anger in my face. My father laughed again and said, Dont
buy a used car unless you are a mechanic or own an automobile parts store.
I knew he was right and got a tune-up the next day.
My car wasnt perfect after that, but it got me to work and home again.
And I learned a lesson: if youre going to buy a used car, you had better check
it out carefully. As for me, I hope to get rich and never have to drive a piece
of junk again.
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Two days later I got a telephone call. It was the manager. He said that there
had been a terrible mistake and that I could have my job back. It turned out
that the computer was making the mistakes all along; it had a defective motherboard. I was so happy that I danced around the kitchen with the phone in
my hand.
I returned to work the next day and sat down to a new computer. This one
was friendly, and we became a real team immediately.
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But something did stop me. It didnt seem possible. It didnt seem like the
right way to end things. I was being tricked. Fate had cheated me. It wasnt
fair, and I lowered my head and wept loudly. It wasnt fair!
I had been a millionaire for only a short time. Just like so many others, I
had only dreamed it. My wealth was just a wish come true in my sleep.
August 1, 2009
3111 West Main Street
Johnstown, IL 60622
Dear Bill,
I nally bought the new car Ive been talking about. I was able to get a loan
from my local bank, and together with what Ive saved, I was able to get the car.
It is bright red and looks fantastic.
When fall comes, I want to take a drive to New England. Ive heard that the
autumn foliage is spectacular. And it will be a good opportunity to try out my new
car. Maybe youll have the time to come with me.
I had hoped to ask my brother to join me on the trip, but he was in a skiing
accident last winter, and his leg hasnt yet healed properly. Although hes still on
crutches, hes able to go to work.
Yours truly,
Jim
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October 5, 2009
1199 Oak Street
Johnstown, IL 60622
My Dear Barbara,
You may have heard by now that I lost some money recently. What you probably dont know is that it was a whole months salary. When I got my monthly
paycheck, I cashed it at my bank. Then I put the money in my purse and headed
for home, but somehow I left my purse on the bus. I know it was a careless and
stupid thing to do.
Yesterday a little boy came to my door and asked if I had lost anything
recently. I told him I had lost my purse and described it to him. He just looked
at me for a moment.
Then he pulled my purse from behind his back and handed it to me. Everything was in it: my wallet, my credit cards, my drivers license, and all my money.
I was so relieved that I gave the boy fty dollars. Its good to know that there are
nice people in the world.
Yours,
Aunt Mary
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August 7, 2009
3111 West Main Street
Johnstown, IL 60622
(311) 555-1234
James Jones, Manager
Specialty Electronics
5566 North Fuller Avenue
Johnstown, IL 60633
Subject: Defective CD Player
Dear Mr. Jones:
I have been a customer of your store for more than three years. On August
1 I purchased a Crown CD player (model A-2003) from you for $155.95.
From the rst moment when I tried to use the CD player, it was clear that
something was wrong with it. The power light did not come on. The buttons caused nothing to work. In short, the product is defective.
I have heard good things about this brand of CD player and would prefer
to have a replacement for it. If that is not possible, please arrange for a
refund of my money. A copy of my receipt is enclosed. I can be contacted
at the above address or phone number.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jim Brown
Enclosure (1)
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Michelle Miller
Enclosures (3)
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My old car needed a paint job and had bad brakes. It was time to buy a newer
car, something more modern and up-to-date. I went to the largest dealership
on Main Street and received help from one of the salesmen. He showed me all
the latest models. But everything was so expensive.
Finally I saw a dark blue convertible on the far end of the lot. It was a twoyear-old Chevy, and it was in great condition. The price was right, so the salesman drew up the papers, I gladly signed, and a half hour later I drove off the
lot in my almost new Chevy.
But getting this car hasnt been the best idea. My brother always wants to
borrow it. My girlfriend always wants to drive it. And I only get to use it when
I go to work and when the car needs gas.
My great-grandfather was ninety-two years old and suffering from a long illness. We knew he would pass away soon, but thats not easy even if someone is
old. His last wish was to have the entire family with him at the end. So on a cold
day that seemed designed for our impending loss, we gathered at his bedside.
Aunt Louise, who was Great-grandfathers youngest sister, sat next to him.
She said quiet, comforting words to him, but I doubt he heard her. Then something that no one had expected happened. Great-grandfather opened his eyes
and seemed to look around.
Its time, he said quietly. Then he shut his eyes and slipped into his eternal sleep.
Although I felt a certain sadness, I was relieved to know that he was nally
released from his illness. Death isnt easy, but its something we all must endure.
The most amazing thing happened one day when I was at the beach. I have often
spent time at the seashore, but this time it was something special. I was enjoying myself, watching the waves and the surf, when I found a bottle in the sand.
I have never gone looking for treasure, but the bottle was the vehicle that sent
me on such a course.
The bottle itself was nothing special: it was small and made of brown glass.
But inside was a note with just a few words: Look beneath the cliffs. Because
of those four simple words, I began a quest that went on for two weeks.
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I searched beneath every cliff along the shoreline. I hunted in caves and on
rocky slopes. But I didnt nd any treasure. Then one evening at sunset, I sat
beneath a jagged cliff and peered out over the sea. Thats when I found my treasure: the most beautiful sunset I had ever seen. It was unforgettable and gave
me a happiness I remember to this day.
It must have been difcult for the Founding Fathers to choose in favor of revolution and war against England. Such a step was surely taken with great fear.
Everything could be lost if the war ended in favor of England. And thousands
of men, women, and children from all the colonies would suffer or even die.
But the ght for freedom was just, and that made the war inevitable. The
American colonists had to take command of their own liberty or perish in the
process. When negotiations and diplomacy failed, it was time to act.
No war is good. It means death and destruction for so many, but perhaps
the good that is derived after the war is justication enough for it. At least that
was so in the case of the American Revolution.
My cousin, Anne, and her anc were married several years ago. Instead of a
June wedding, they got married in late October. The vows they spoke were simple but beautiful. Everyone cried, especially Annes new mother-in-law.
The reception Annes parents arranged was held in a large hall in the city.
Guests enjoyed dancing and wonderful food. But instead of an open bar, each
table was provided with several bottles of champagne. Everyone celebrated
happily.
Around midnight the bride and groom slipped away. The following morning they left for their honeymoon in Jamaica.
Next October they will have been married for ten years.
If I had known then what I know now about credit cards, I never would have
signed up for one. I thought a credit card would give me freedom and allow me
to enjoy the things that were out of my grasp nancially. But thats not the way
it turned out.
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I found myself buying things I didnt need. If I saw a dress I liked, I would
buy it, even if I thought it was too expensive. Little by little my debt grew, and
with the high interest rate, I found that I couldnt pay my bills.
One day I went to an ATM to get some money, and I discovered that my
credit card didnt work. I had spent too much, and I owed too much. But I had
nally learned my lesson. I cut up the card and got a second job. It took two
years, but Im nally out of debt. And I dont want another credit card.
At summers end last year, I was exhausted. I needed time away from work. So
I went to a travel agent to arrange a trip someplace quiet and relaxing. The agent
suggested Sanibel Island in Florida.
Are you going to be traveling alone? she asked me.
That was the rst time I had thought about it. I didnt want to vacation
alone. My brothers wife was visiting her mother for a while, so I invited him to
join me. But he couldnt get away from work. So I asked my friend Bill. But Bills
job required him to travel later in the fall.
Then I realized that it wasnt important where I spent my vacation time. It
was more important to be with the people I care about. I called the travel agent
and told her that I wouldnt be taking a trip anywhere that year. Im going to
spend my free time with family and friends instead.
Maria became my wife just two years ago. I love her so much and know that she
loves me, too. Our relationship is so strong and based on mutual affection and
respect. We both admitted long ago that we had found in one another our soul
mates.
Its so important to have someone that you love so much. Everyone needs
someone that he can talk to and conde in. Its a form of comfort and security.
And my Maria is all of that.
Our love is real and forever. And that kind of love is hard to nd. But when
you do nd it, you have to nurture it and care for it like a delicate ower. If you
do, it will go on and on.
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Who would have believed it? I won a million dollars in the lottery. Lots of people have been taken in by the notion that theyll strike it rich someday. But it
really happened to me. When it does, what do you do with all that money?
The answer isnt so easy. For years I have been plagued by the idea that having lots of money would solve all my problems. But money just adds to the problems. In addition to taxes, there are friends and relatives, all of whom need a
loan. Everybody seems to want something from you. You begin to feel that people only like you for your wealth.
I foolishly went on a buying spree. I bought three cars, a new house, a boat,
and a closet full of clothes for every season. How could I have been so stupid?
The money was soon gone, and I was back at my old job. But I had learned an
important and very old lesson: money doesnt always buy happiness.
I sometimes have to laugh when I think about my rst job. I was sixteen years
old and believed that a man of that advanced age ought to earn his own keep.
So I got a job sweeping up in a hardware store. I dusted shelves, swept oors,
and cleaned toilets. It was so boring.
One day Mr. Jones, the owner of the store, said I had to help customers
because he was shorthanded. I was glad to do it and to leave my broom in the
back room.
But there was a problem. I wasnt able to help anybody. I didnt know a dead
bolt from a coping saw. I didnt know that nails came in different sizes, and all
I did was frustrate Mr. Jones customers.
At the end of the week I got my paycheck and a little yellow slip that said I
was red. It was a relief.
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