American Big Picture Intermediate
Transcripts
Ctrl + click on the track name in the table below to jump to the relevant page.
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
2.11
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9
3.10
3.11
R1
R2
R3
R4
R5
R6
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
6.9
6.10
R7
R8
R9
R10
R11
R12
R13
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
7.8
7.9
7.10
7.11
7.12
7.13
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
8.6
8.7
8.8
8.9
8.10
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
9.8
9.9
9.10
R14
R15
R16
R17
R18
R19
R20
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.9
10.10
11.1
11.2
11.3
11.4
11.5
11.6
11.7
11.8
11.9
12.1
12.2
12.3
12.4
12.5
12.6
12.7
12.8
12.9
R21
R22
R23
R24
R25
R26
R27
R28
R29
Unit 1: Communication
[1.1] page 4, Exercise 2
1
Ah, yes, this is a Kabuki dancer, isn’t it? And each dance tells a story, with the costume and the makeup
and the movements all communicating something different—the only problem… is you have to know
the language of Kabuki dance to understand what he’s saying!
2
She’s obviously angry about something and she has decided to protest about it. She’s using a poster to
communicate her message—and the strength of the crowd as well. That makes the message much louder
and more powerful.
3
This gesture says a thousand words, doesn’t it? So gentle, so tender, it’s communicating love and
protection. It’s amazing how a hand gesture can say so much!
1
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
4
I love this photo, the way the two people are looking at each other, the way they seem to be so deep in
conversation. They’re not just talking with words. The expressions on their faces and the gestures
they’re making with their hands are all part of the conversation.
5
Mm. There are two things going on in this photo. I mean first of all, there’s the keyboard, and that’s so
much part of modern communication, isn’t it? You know, people staying in touch by e-mail, instant
messaging services or social networks, but it’s also the hands. Look at the henna on her hands; that tells
a story, too. It communicates a lot about the person who’s typing, don’t you think?
6
OK, this one is obviously showing sign language. I wonder if they are listening to music and are having
trouble hearing each other, or maybe they don’t speak the same language.
[1.2] page 7, Exercise 2a
start
starts
watch
watches
text
texts
dance
dances
started
watched
texted
danced
[1.3] page 7, Exercise 3a
Today I’ve texted friends, tweeted with coworkers, I’ve e-mailed work contacts, I’ve Skype’d with my
girlfriend, I’ve spoken on the phone to a few people, I’ve chatted with people on the street. In fact, I’ve
discussed all kinds of things and I’ve watched lots of people talk on their phones, and I’m sure I’ve used
my body to say things. But I’m not sure if any of us have communicated with each other very much!
[1.4] page 8, Exercise 3b
1
Which sign do you think makes people pay the most attention? Why?
2
What rights is the man in the mask standing up for?
3
Do you think any of these signs can actually change anyone’s mind? If yes, which?
4
Which sign do you think is making the most important point?
5
Do you think making a sign is the best way to get a message across? Why/Why not? What other
ways are there?
6
Do you ever speak your mind in public like this? Why/Why not?
[1.5] page 8, Exercise 1a
I = Interviewer S1, 2, 3, 4 = Speaker 1, 2, 3, 4
1
I:
Hello, now tell me why you are holding this sign.
S1:
Well, we need change… I’m hoping that this economic recession will end.
I:
Why do you need a sign to do that?
S1:
Because I want people to know there are other people like me. I’m desperate, we don’t have
work, we don’t have a future.
I:
Do you think the sign will work?
2
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
S1:
I:
S1:
2
I:
S2:
I:
S2:
I:
S2:
I:
S2:
3
I:
S3:
I:
S3:
I:
S3:
4
I:
S4:
I:
S4:
I:
S4:
I hope so, but I just don’t know, but we have to do something… this crisis is killing us… if it
makes people change their mind and join us, that would be good.
How long will you stay here for?
It doesn’t matter, as long as necessary… As I said I don’t have a job to go to, so I really don’t
mind.
Hi, just a couple of questions. You’re holding a sign. What exactly does that sign mean? I mean
what is it saying?
Well, it’s a protest, of course.
What kind of protest?
About climate change.
Why did you decide to dress like this animal? I mean, what made you want to dress like a polar
bear?
It’s a powerful symbol of what’s happening as a consequence of global warming. Polar bears are
losing their habitat because the ice at the North Pole is quickly disappearing. We need to do
something now, before it’s too late.
Why did you use those particular words though?
Because normally we write “Save the Animals” on our signs. I thought it was effective to turn
that around. Sometimes you get more attention if you make a serious point but with a sense of
humor.
How long did it take to make the sign? Was it difficult to make?
Well, about an hour, I think. No, it was easy. I made it with a friend.
Who gave you the idea?
Nobody. I just love this soccer player. I asked myself how I could show that. I thought the TV
cameras might spot me, and they did! But I didn’t want England to win this game and, of course,
he wasn’t playing… but he was there in the crowd.
And what happened after the game? Did he say anything to you?
No, unfortunately he didn’t.
So, tell me, why are you here, sir?
Because I want to be the first, the first in line to get one of these things.
How long have you been here?
Twenty-four hours, I slept here overnight.
Who is the sign for?
Well, for nobody really… It was just a joke. But it’s really just for the other people in line… to
let them know I got here first! And for the TV cameras and reporters. Quite a few people have
taken photos, and others have stopped to talk to me.
[1.6] page 12, Exercise 3b
1
Hi! Have you heard the news about Jenny?
2
Did you watch the game then?
3
Hello… erm… I see you got a little wet…
4
Do you have any plans for the weekend?
3
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
5
6
Hi, Joe. Are you feeling any better?
How many of the people do you know here?
[1.7] page 12, Exercise 4
1
S = Sonia M = Michael
S:
Hi, how are you?
M:
Fine, thanks…
S:
I’m Sonia, Sonia Cruz.
M:
I’m Michael. How many of the people here do you know? I don’t know anyone…
S:
Well, not many people, just the hosts really… and now you.
M:
How did you meet Cathy and Craig?
S:
We were in college together…
M:
Wow, long time ago…
2
A:
Hi. So…erm… Do you have any plans for the weekend?
B:
Not really. Just need to relax a little, that’s all.
A:
Me, too.
B:
Do you want sugar with yours? I can’t remember…
A:
No, thanks.
3
A:
Morning, Gary. How’s it going?
B:
Good morning.
A:
Ah, did you watch the game last night?
B:
Yeah, just reading about it. Five nothing. Amazing!
A:
Absolutely, oh… this is my floor! See ya.
4
A:
Hello… erm… I see you got a little wet…
B:
Yeah, forgot my umbrella. I’m totally soaked. Oh well…
A:
Nasty weather, eh?
B:
So, it seems… Sorry, I’m going to try and dry off a little. Is there a restroom on this train?
A:
Yes, just go to the end of the car, and you’ll find it.
B:
Thanks, bye.
A:
Bye.
5
A:
Hi!
B:
Hi! Did you hear the news about Jenny?
A:
No. What happened?
B:
The flight’s been canceled, air traffic control strike.
A:
You’re joking!
B:
I just got an e-mail. Did they send you one?
[1.8] page 12, Stress
1
Your face is really familiar.
4
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Excuse me, can I give you a hand with that?
How are you feeling today?
So, how do you know Sergio?
What’s the problem? You look terrible.
What did you say your name was again?
Hi, what are you up to?
Did you sleep OK?
Hi, what brings you here at this time of day?
You don’t know me, but…
5
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 2: A Good Read
[2.1] page 14, Exercise 2a
1
I like the way he is concentrating so hard and the light from the cell phone illuminates his face as
he scrolls down the text on the screen.
2
You never normally see a photo like this, I mean, you just hear people reading a script out loud,
but you never see them. She’s very relaxed and informal, which is different from how you see
these people on TV.
3
This would be many people’s favorite place to read. You glance at a few lines of a novel and
then close your eyes, you never usually get past the first paragraph, and the picture captures
that…
4
While you’re waiting for the bus, this is a good place to check out the sports news. I like how the
people are all reading, not really aware of each other.
5
These are some candidates, waiting to take an exam; they’re looking through their notes for the
last time. I remember doing that; it’s too late to study anymore, but you do it anyway.
6
Sometimes there’s no better place to read than in the bookstore itself. This guy seems to be
looking up some important information in a reference book. It’s something he has to know right
away.
[2.2] page 16, Exercise 2
Beloved by Toni Morrison
This looks like a romantic novel, I mean, the title suggests that, but actually it’s about the slave trade in
the United States. It follows the life of a mother and daughter as they try to rebuild their lives after
escaping from slavery. It’s set in the United at the end of the nineteenth century. So, I think historical
novel is the best description for it.
Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
This is like a love story and a drama and a humorous novel all in one. The narrator looks back on his life
in the 1960s as a student in Tokyo, so it’s very nostalgic. It talks about the love affairs he had when he
was younger. It’s funny at times, but it has its tragic side as well. But if I had to choose, I think love
story is the best description.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
This is a story about the end of the world. We follow the story of a father and son as they walk across
America. The country has been virtually destroyed and only a few people have survived. Some people
might think this is like science fiction or fantasy, but I think it’s very real, which is what makes it so
frightening. It’s hard to classify but I suppose it’s an action/adventure story, but a very tragic one.
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
This story is set in Botswana, Africa. As the name suggests, it’s a detective novel, but with a difference.
It tells the story of Precious Ramose and her decision to become the first female private detective in
Botswana. The crimes are ordinary crimes and the problems are the everyday problems of the people of
Botswana. There are touches of comedy, but also of tragedy, and above all there’s the taste of Africa,
with all its colors, sights and sounds.
6
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[2.3] page 18, Exercise 2
H = Host TK = Tanya Kowitz
H:
Well, we have Tanya Kowitz here with us. Hi, Tanya. You’ve come into the studio today to tell
us all about manga. I keep seeing it everywhere, but I must confess I don’t know too much about
it. Can you enlighten us?
TK: Well, I figured that might be the case, so let me give you a brief introduction. The incredible
thing about it is that in Japan (where manga comes from) it represents close to 25% of what
people read, at least in print. In the U.S., novels are still the most popular, but in many parts of
Tokyo where I used to live, you can’t walk more than two or three blocks without encountering
these comics.
H:
And these are young people I presume?
TK: Oh, no, it isn’t just for young people; everybody reads manga —business people and housewives
alike. You can see them on the subway or even walking down the street, their heads buried in the
latest series they are reading. Hiroshima even has a public library devoted to manga. But it’s not
just about books. You can even get manga novels sent in installments to your cell phone.
H:
I was going to ask you about that. So, manga’s available in every shape and size…
TK: Absolutely, and there’s a reason for that… you know… nearly all of Japan’s cultural production
comes from manga. Most anime (animated) movies, you know, cartoons and television series, as
well as many videogames and collectible figures, began life as manga comics.
H:
And what about outside Japan? Has this manga industry evolved in the same way?
TK: Yes, for sure. Manga hadn’t reached a global market before, but now I’d say it could be the
country’s most influential export. I mean, one of the most popular, Naruto, is now translated into
many languages, with adaptations… you know, designed to suit different cultures.
H:
So it’s a global product, but it’s localized for particular markets…
TK: That’s right… A UK firm has recently published manga versions of Shakespeare’s most famous
works, including Hamlet. Well, the character of Hamlet is the man we know and love, but the
plot is very different and so’s the setting. In this manga version Hamlet lives in the year 2107 on
an Earth destroyed by global warming.
H:
Wow, that’s some change… What other stuff is out there?
TK: Erm, let me think about that one, erm… well, you know The World Bank and publisher Viz
Media teamed up to produce a thing called 1 World Manga. It’s a series of graphic novels in
manga format with themes that address things like HIV/AIDS, poverty and corruption. It’s a
great way to make young people aware of these things. They are donated to libraries, so more
people can read them… It’s a great idea.
H:
So would you say that manga’s become a central part of popular culture in many parts of the
world?
TK: Yeah, absolutely. You can even buy a Bible with manga style illustrations. Can you believe that?
And manga is even used by advertisers as a marketing device. You can see huge manga faces on
billboards or simply to decorate the facades of buildings. So what started off as comic book,
something you put in your pocket, just became the biggest icon the world has ever seen… and
this is helping manga become truly international. It’s not just Japanese anymore.
H:
Wow, that shows you what popularity can do. Incredible, Tanya, the images are amazing.
Thanks for sharing them with us.
7
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[2.4] page 18, Exercise 3b
1
No, manga represents nearly a quarter of what the Japanese read.
2
No, Tanya used to live in Tokyo, not now.
3
No, Hiroshima has a special library devoted to manga.
4
No, the plot of the manga Hamlet is very different, although the character is similar.
5
No, 1 World Manga are comics that look at serious global issues, such as AIDS.
6
No, large manga faces are used on billboards or to decorate the outsides of buildings.
7
No, Tanya’s final point is that manga is becoming truly international.
[2.5] page 18, Exercise 2b
1
I loved the original, but the movie version was terrible.
2
I like Lisa Simpson; she’s my favorite character on the show.
3
The book was great, but I had trouble understanding the plot. It was really complicated.
4
Tintin was the first comic book that I read as a kid.
5
I mostly read fiction, though not best sellers. They aren’t always that good.
[2.6] page 20, Exercise 1b
The first image is from a Hollywood movie from the 1990s starring Sylvester Stallone. It’s actually
called Cliffhanger and it’s set in the Rocky Mountains. It is basically a series of cliff-hangers, literally,
each one more impossible that the last, building up to the climax, where good finally triumphs over evil!
The suspense keeps the audience glued to their seats, and later, when the movie appeared on TV, it
meant they stayed there through the commercial breaks and didn’t change the channel. The second
image is taken from a classic serial movie from the 1930s. Serial movies told short stories about heroes
who were forever getting into trouble. They lasted about twenty minutes to half an hour and always
ended with a cliff-hanger in order to encourage the audience to return the next week to see what would
happen to their hero. Slowly the serial movies disappeared, and they were replaced by TV series instead.
The third photo is an image from an American TV series, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. This is
actually the closing image of the last episode of the eleventh season. The intention is to keep the viewers
hanging on, not just for the next episode, but for the next season! And now that a lot of TV series are
actually watched on DVD, I suppose the point is to encourage you to buy the next season!
[2.7] page 21, Exercise 1a
A:
Did you use to watch a lot of TV when you were a kid?
B:
No, we didn’t use to have a TV, but we used to go to the movies a lot.
[2.8] page 22, Exercise 2a
I = Interviewer L = Louise
I:
Evening, listeners. Today journalist Louise Fryer talks about the image of two men reading on
the Grand Concourse of Union Station and sees a metaphor for how badly we read these days.
L:
I think this image is really revealing. You see more people now like the man on the left gazing
into a screen or a smartphone, don’t you? How many people still read a paper like the man on the
right? Does that mean the printed word will disappear? Perhaps, but I’m not sure that’s the
problem. The main problem I think is that we don’t read well any more… Before, we used to
read in-depth the long texts we had to interpret. Now, we just scroll down text on the screen, we
8
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
don’t take it in, we don’t absorb the information and when we get bored, we just open another
window or click on another icon. Not only that, we don’t read enough. What we tend to do is
read the same information again and again. We click on the same websites to check the same
information to see if there has been an update. You know, is the weather forecast any different to
what it was an hour ago, has the price of that flight changed? Has anybody responded to my blog
in the last half hour? Because we can read like this, checking and checking again, we have
become anxious readers, we don’t know how to read for relaxation any more. Take away the
technology for a week and see what happens, see what you will discover about the world.
[2.9] page 22, Exercise 3a
I = Interviewer G = Giu E = Elana S = Svetlana M = Mark F = Flavio A = Adam
I:
Here’s how some of you responded to Louise’s words.
G:
You know, I don’t agree at all. The people Louise talks about are just bored; they have too much
time to waste, to read all that information again and again.
E:
I prefer books, the printed word, so I really see Louise’s point, but I don’t think it’s a problem of
technology. You can read very well onscreen; it’s just easier to lose your concentration and
browse somewhere else.
S:
I agree to some extent. I think what she said makes a lot of sense. We have to spend a day or two
without technology to realize that. We read the same information again and again, and it’s so
trivial.
M:
You know, I don’t see it that way. We read differently, but we don’t read any worse than we did
when we only had paper. Reading is more dynamic and enjoyable online.
F:
I couldn’t agree more. I hate reading online. But I think it’s a personal thing. A whole new
generation only reads online, it seems. Are they any the worse for this? There’s no proof they
are.
A:
I’m afraid she’s wrong about that. This is the typical argument of someone who cannot come to
terms with new technology and blames it for everything.
[2.10] page 22, Stress
1
You know, I don’t agree at all.
2
So I really see Louise’s point but…
3
I agree to some extent. I think…
4
You know, I don’t see it that way.
5
I couldn’t agree more, but…
6
I’m afraid she’s wrong about that.
[2.11] page 23, Exercise 4b
I took this photo in Patagonia in Argentina. The two narrow peaks that you can see are called Fitz Roy
and Cerro Torre. We had spent a few weeks hiking around that area and this was the end of the last day
of our trip. We were driving back on that desolate highway, and the light was dying when I caught a
glimpse of the mountain range in the rearview mirror and thought, “I just need to take one last photo of
that horizon.” It turned out to be the best photo I had taken on that whole trip.
9
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 3: Art Everywhere
[3.1] page 24, Exercise 2b
1
A:
I love this mural. It’s amazing how he takes these derelict old buildings and turns them into
works of art. I was amazed when I first saw it, really amazed!
B:
Yes, I know what you mean. But the images are pretty disturbing sometimes. I mean, all those
rats!
A:
Yeah, I guess his murals of rabbits are less shocking.
2
A:
Hey, this is a great photo. What is it?
B:
It’s an installation in an open-air sculpture park not far from where we live. It was a very hot
day, and we were really surprised, and so pleased when we came across this last installation. We
had no idea it was there. There was a tunnel into the hillside, and then we came out into this, like,
underground room. And there was this pool, and in the middle, a strange tower. It was so cool
and fresh. Just what we needed!
3
A:
So, did you get to see the Mona Lisa?
B:
Yes, eventually, but we had to stand in line for hours, and then when we finally did get to see the
painting, it was so disappointing. It’s so small! And the room was so full of people, you couldn’t
see a thing! It was so annoying—all these people taking photos with their phones!
4
A:
Is that Rodin? The Thinker? Where is it?
B:
There was an exhibition downtown with six or seven Rodin sculptures. And this one, of course.
The kids look really bored, don’t they? But actually they’re just imitating the statue’s pose.
5
Have you ever seen any of these 3D street drawings? People draw them on the sidewalk or
pavement with chalk, but they’re in 3D, and some of them look like there’s a hole or something.
Look, I have a photo of one on my phone. I tell you, this one is so lifelike that the first time you
see it, it’s terrifying.
[3.2] page 25, Exercise 4a
1
It’s amazing how he uses these derelict old buildings and turns them into works of art.
2
Yes, but the images are pretty disturbing sometimes. I mean, all those rats!
3
We were really surprised when we came across this last installation.
4
It was so annoying. All these people taking photos with their phones!
5
The kids look really bored, don’t they? But actually they’re just imitating the statue’s pose.
6
I tell you, this one is so lifelike that the first time you see it, it’s terrifying.
[3.3] page 27, Exercise 1a
A:
Mm, this isn’t very nice.
B:
Not very nice? It’s totally disgusting!
10
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[3.4] page 27, Exercise 2b
1
A:
This is quite interesting.
B:
Interesting? It’s absolutely fascinating!
2
A:
I’m very tired after that walk.
B:
Tired? I’m completely exhausted!
3
A:
Hey, this is really good, you know.
B:
Good? It’s really fantastic!
[3.5] page 28, Exercise 1a
This is a photo of Trafalgar Square in central London. It’s one of London’s best-known squares. It
attracts millions of visitors every year and has often been at the center of public demonstrations. In each
corner of the square there is a plinth, an enormous stone platform. Three of these plinths hold a
permanent statue, but the fourth plinth, the one you can see in the image, stood empty for over 150
years. It was originally designed to hold a statue of a horse, but due to lack of money the statue was
never built. In 1998, the local authorities started to experiment with different statues. These experiments
were very popular and attracted even more visitors to the square and a lot of discussion about what
exactly should stand on the plinth. In 2010, the mayor of London announced a competition that would
take place every two years where the public would decide. In the first competition, a number of
sculptures were suggested, and the public voted to choose their two favorite statues, one for 2012, the
year of the London Olympics, and the other for the year 2013.
[3.6] page 28, Exercise 3a
C = Camelia L = Luke M = Miguel E = Estefanía
C:
So, what do you think of these six sculptures, Luke?
L:
Well, I think I know which one will win, but it’s not my favorite.
C:
Well, tell us your favorite.
L:
I… don’t laugh… I like the cake. It’s by far the funniest.
M:
Really? No, no, I mean, the bird’s definitely the funniest and by far the most colorful… Well, I
think it’s as funny as the cake, don’t you? And… it will look great in the square. It will be such a
shock to the people of London. It’s just a crazy, crazy idea…
E:
Oh, come on. You can’t be serious, Miguel!
M:
OK, so who would you vote for, Estefanía?
E:
Me? I would vote for the brass boy on his toy horse. It’s a very personal image; everybody can
relate to that. It’s much more elegant than the bird anyway!
L:
You’re right, but I think a sense of humor is important. Anyway, that cake has a history, you
know. It’s a little more interesting than you think. It’s called Battenberg, and it was very popular
at the time the plinth was built. I really think it’s the most intelligent one.
E:
You men… you like the funny ones. What do you think, Camelia?
C:
My favorite is the general on the horse. It’s so simple. I don’t know, I think it’s a little more
appropriate, that’s all. For me, the boy on his horse is not as good; I don’t know why.
11
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
M:
C:
L:
C:
L:
E:
L:
E:
No way, that’s the worst!
Not at all. Did you know the original statue is actually around the corner from Trafalgar Square?
It has beautiful decoration. I think it’s a lot more artistic than the others, those beautiful jewels,
look at that…
She’s trying to convince us…
Anyway, you never told us which one you think is going to win.
Well, you know, I like cake, and I think the mountain landscape is one of the best, too but… I
think the horse will win…
Which horse? There are two…
The boy on the brass horse. It’s not as strange as the others. It’s classic. If it’s going to be in
Trafalgar Square, they’re going to choose something classic that fits in with the architecture,
don’t you think?
I’m not sure, but that’s my choice as well…
[3.7] page 31, Exercise 1a
This is one of my favorite places in town. I love to sit here drinking coffee and watching the world go
by. It’s a large town and a huge variety of people walk down this street, young and old, tourists and
locals, all kinds of cultures and backgrounds, all going about their business. I love watching them and
imagining where they’re going, what they’re like, what they’re thinking. It’s so much more interesting
than just staring into space. Sometimes I watch the people at the next table and tune in to their
conversations. Is that bad? I know I shouldn’t really listen in on other people’s conversations, and if
they’re too personal, then I turn away, but usually they’re simply passing the time of day or talking
about work. It’s surprising how many people come here to have business meetings over a cup of coffee!
[3.8] page 32, Exercise 2a
F = Frank J = Jane A = Adrian S = Sally
F:
I don’t understand what the problem with this building is… the crazy design, that’s the idea.
What I like is that it matches what’s inside—so much modern music is crazy—and that fits with
the building somehow. The most important thing is that people are talking about it. That doesn’t
happen with most buildings, which we don’t even notice.
J:
Maybe Frank has a point there, but what I hate about it is the location. There was a beautiful park
there before and now we have to look at this… thing… argh… I mean it’s absolutely
grotesque…
A:
Jane’s right, the building’s embarrassing. I mean, I’m embarrassed to look at it. The problem is
that the architect is famous and nobody wants to criticize him. That’s the problem. Yeah, OK, we
all know it’s a work of art, but it’s a bad one… I don’t want to have to see that every day of the
week, that’s why works of art should be inside museums. Buildings should be functional…
S:
I don’t agree with Adrian. I mean, why put a museum about creativity in a gray, square box? The
best thing about it is that it’s controversial, it provokes debate; you can’t be indifferent to it, can
you? I mean you either love it or hate it. And technologically, it’s incredible. The building is a
sculpture; the architect intended it to be like that, a work of art in its own right, you know? Our
city should celebrate that, not criticize it.
12
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[3.9] page 32, Stress
1
What I like best is that it matches what’s inside.
2
That’s the best thing about it.
3
The most important thing is that people are talking about it.
4
The problem is that the architect is famous.
5
What I hate about it is the position.
[3.10] page 33, Exercise 2a
1
A:
Excuse me, do you have a few minutes?
B:
Sorry, no, I’m on the way to work.
2
A:
Excuse me, I wonder if you could answer a few questions…
B:
Sorry, I’ve already answered…
A:
OK, thank you.
3
A:
Good morning, do you have a few minutes to answer a short survey? We’re offering twenty free
prints to everyone who answers our questionnaire.
B:
Yeah, sure.
A:
Thank you. Just a few quick questions to start with. How old are you? Between eighteen and
twenty-five? Between twenty-six and thirty? Over thirty?
B:
Between twenty-six and thirty.
A:
OK, thanks. Do you have a digital camera?
B:
A digital camera? No. I use the camera on my phone.
A:
What kind of phone do you have?
B:
Here it is… See… It’s a…
4
A:
OK, thank you, just one last question… Do you ever print your photos on photographic paper?
B:
No, never. It’s too expensive…
A:
Well, thanks for taking the time to complete the survey. Here’s a voucher for twenty free prints.
Bring in your phone or the memory card, and we’ll print twenty of your favorite photos.
B:
Thank you.
A:
Have a nice day.
[3.11] page 33, Exercise 5
1
Excuse me, do you have a few minutes?
2
Excuse me, I wonder if you could answer a few questions.
3
Good morning, do you have a few minutes to answer a short survey?
4
OK, thank you. Just one last question.
13
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Review A
[R1] page 34, Exercise 2a
I like communicating, and these new forms of communication are quick and easy. I like to keep things
separate though. I use e-mail for my work and business contacts and tweeting for family and friends and
also acquaintances. When I want to chat longer, with my mother for example, I can talk on Skype, which
is much cheaper. Face-to-face? Well, I sometimes have to give lectures or presentations for my work in
front of a lot of people, strangers… so that can get really stressful. With my boyfriend I like to chat
about all kinds of things; we discuss serious matters like politics and then, of course, we have
arguments, too… like all couples I guess.
[R2] page 34, Exercise 2
1
A:
How do you know John then?
B:
I met him at a party like this one!
2
A:
Hi! You don’t know me, but I’m Carl.
B:
Hello, I’m Mary.
[R3] page 35, Exercise 2b
I love romantic stories and one of the best I know is how my parents met. Apparently, they were sitting
next to each other on a plane to Sydney. As soon as they started talking, my mom knew that she had met
somebody very special. They had lots of things in common. Both of them were going to visit family in
Australia and that was exciting because neither of them had been there before, it was their first time.
They had both gotten divorced recently and both were thinking about starting a new life in a new land.
In the end, they decided that they could do that together. Isn’t that incredible, just from one conversation
on a plane?
[R4] page 35, Exercise 1b
1
A:
I think reading out loud is a great way to learn a language.
B:
I don’t agree at all.
2
A:
Some people can tell entertaining stories and jokes, and others just can’t.
B:
I agree to some extent.
3
A:
I love reading a good book.
B:
I couldn’t agree more.
[R5] page 36, Exercise 2
A:
What I like about it is that it’s free.
B:
Yes, that’s the best thing about the show for me. The exhibition is really good value.
14
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
A:
The only problem is that I don’t like any of the art!
[R6] page 37, Exercise 2a
1 Xavier
I’m really lucky. I have a few English-speaking friends. They’re exchange students studying at my
university. They don’t speak much French–one’s Dutch, another’s Brazilian–we get together once a
week and have a language exchange, a little bit of French, a little bit of Portuguese, not much Dutch!
But the main language we use together is English–it’s really helping me. I feel so much more
confident… it’s definitely the best way to learn.
2 Sue
When I was studying Spanish at school I used to listen to the radio in Spanish all the time–absolutely
anything, the news, the weather, sport, I didn’t care. And every now and then they would show a movie
in Spanish on the TV – I used to like watching them with the subtitles in English over and over again
until I understood every word they said.
3 Kat
Music has to be one of the most important things for me. It is absolutely incredible how easy it is to
remember words when you associate them with music. I spend hours and hours watching videos of my
favorite bands and reading their lyrics online. What did people used to do before YouTube? It is a totally
amazing language-learning tool. And it’s not just music, of course, there are chatrooms and so much
more. I don’t think you need a language-learning classroom anymore. You can learn it all online!
15
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 4: Man and Nature
[4.1] page 38, Exercise 3b
S = Silvia (Host) L = Lucas
S:
Treehuggers’ News Update is pleased to welcome Lucas Ainsworth to the show. Lucas has two
images to talk about this morning, isn’t that right, Lucas?
L:
Yes, that’s right, Silvia. These two photos are incredible because they show how man is
distorting, you know, changing out of proportion, the natural world in two very different ways.
OK, so, the first one was taken in Mato Grosso, Brazil, where a large part of the Amazon can be
found. You know, the best way to see man’s destruction of the Amazon rain forest is from the
air. Farmers and plantation owners have cut down an enormous number of trees to make space
for soybean crops or cattle ranches. Apart from the obvious environmental damage, these
changes are affecting human and animal populations that made their life in the Amazon. Some
animals will become extinct and many people will lose their homes; in fact that has happened
already because their land has been destroyed by burning. In other parts of the world, forest fires
destroy our green spaces… Here it is all man’s doing, and from the sky it is easy to identify.
S:
And the second photo?
L:
The second one… well, it’s ironic because here we can see humans adding some green, not
taking it away… but for what reasons? And as you can see, it’s a golf course. This is part of the
Bab Al Shams Resort built in the middle of the desert in Dubai—a golf course in the middle of a
desert! So we have tourists riding on camels with a guide, and then here you can see how the
specially planted palm trees provide some shade for the golfers. With such a dry climate, drought
means there are severe water restrictions; some people in neighboring countries don’t have
enough water to drink—and yet, think of the water needed to keep the grass as green as that!
Imagine what else they could do with all that water! At least in the middle of the desert they’ll be
able to find sand for the bunkers!
S:
That’s right.
L:
So, in both photos, we can see how man has divided up the landscape into neat sections; the
difference is that in Brazil, man has removed the natural green space to replace it with farmland;
in the case of Dubai, man has created an unnatural green space for leisure. Which do you think is
sadder?
S:
That’s hard to say, Lucas. Thanks for sharing these thoughts with us this morning…
[4.2] page 40, Exercise 1b
1
A:
Good evening, everybody, and welcome to another City Watch! Every city has its dangers, some
more serious than others; some are man-made, some are caused by nature. This week, we travel
the globe to hear people talking about how these dangers can be prevented. We asked local
people to comment on the dangers lurking just around the corner in their part of the world. We
start our journey in Melbourne, Australia… So, I take it that fires are the main problem here, is
that correct?
16
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
S:
2
A:
J:
A:
3
B:
4
A:
G:
A:
G:
A:
G:
Yes, there are more and more forest fires every year. It’s not good at all—and they’re getting
bigger and more destructive. We’ve already had three major fires this year, and it’s only
February! People have lost their homes, their businesses, but luckily no one’s lost their life—yet!
And the tragic thing is they’re so easy to start! It only takes one cigarette thrown out of a car
window to start a catastrophe here. The land is dry and the heat is intense. One of the biggest
problems is a sudden change in the wind direction; if the wind is blowing in the wrong direction,
it can be fatal. Most local people are aware of all this, but sometimes tourists or people from the
city don’t understand the dangers. Maybe they haven’t traveled in the bush before, and maybe
they don’t know the dangers; so we have to keep campaigning.
Thanks. And now to an area where a terrible natural disaster took place not so long ago—Phuket
in Thailand. What’s being done to take precautions in the future?
The terrible tsunami that came in 2004 caught us all by surprise. Luckily, we haven’t seen
anything like it since then, but we all know it could happen again. Locals and tourists need to
know what to do in case there is another tsunami. We’ve built new evacuation sites, and we’ve
put up signs like this to mark the sites very clearly. Look, here’s one. As you can see, the sign
shows you need to get to higher ground, above the waves. We’ve built more shelters on higher
ground as well.
That sounds good. Sometimes, more minor accidents involving water can occur. Our next visit is
to the English countryside. What’s the problem here?
Well, Norfolk is very prone to flooding. The land is very flat and very low. When it rains, roads
and bridges can flood very quickly. And these flash floods have become more and more common
recently. Warnings of flash floods in the area are always broadcast on the TV and the radio, but
too many people ignore the alerts. They go out in their cars without thinking and then get stuck
when the water level rises. Here the weather can change very fast; we get torrential rain and on
flatlands like this, that’s dangerous. The water can move at quite a speed, and the strong currents
can carry away cars and other vehicles. This sign is fairly new. We’ve put up a lot of them in the
area. We want to make sure people don’t just ignore the sign, so we’ve given it a humorous
message—hopefully that way they won’t forget!
Right. And finally, the kind of disaster that doesn’t happen very often and a sign that certainly is
alarming. We finish our tour in Recife, on the northeast coast of Brazil. We interviewed a
resident of Boa Viagem beach where the main danger lurks… and what a danger!
As you can see, the sign really hasn’t made any difference. People haven’t stopped coming to the
beach. There hasn’t been a fatal attack on this beach yet this year, thankfully, and I suppose
maybe until there is one, they’ll just keep swimming in the ocean.
Have you ever seen a shark attack?
No, I haven’t. I’ve seen sharks in the waters, and they come up really close to the shore. But
we’ve always been able to warn people in time. I’ve never actually seen one attack a person, but
we all know they can, and do.
So why do people continue to swim here?
They think if they aren’t swimming in deep water, it’s OK... as long as they stay close to the
shore. But you know, when there are sharks around, an attack can happen anytime, anywhere.
We’ve put up more signs, and we’ve visited the local schools and told the kids of the danger;
17
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
they’re the ones who take the most risks. Kids and tourists—that’s why the signs are also in
English—for the tourists, of course.
[4.3] page 45, Exercise 2b
In the fight to cut back on plastic, more and more governments are trying to phase out plastic bags, or at
least make customers pay for them at the checkout. In Ireland the government recently introduced a tax
on plastic bags, and in the first year bag use fell by 95%. It’s a high-profile campaign in many countries,
but is it really worth it? Well, probably it is, when you look at how many bags we use each year. And
especially when you look at what usually happens to most of them. Let’s look at a typical life cycle of a
plastic bag. A plastic bag starts out its life on a production line. It’s distributed to stores and retailers and
may have a logo stamped on it. In the store we use it to take our shopping home. Once at home, it may
get used again to carry more shopping, or possibly to clean up after the dog. We may take it with us on a
picnic. We may even put it in a trashcan, or better yet, a recycling container. But only a very small
proportion of bags actually ever get recycled. A much larger proportion are disposed of along with other
household waste and end up in open garbage dumps, where they may get caught by the wind and carried
far and wide. A lot of plastic bags end up in the ocean. The ocean is full of plastic, and not only plastic
bags; there are plastic bottles and plastic wrappers and plastic boxes, even children’s plastic toys. And
all this garbage gets carried by the currents and trapped in huge, floating garbage dumps. One of the
largest of these is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. It’s bigger than the state of Texas, and it is
continually growing. Governments say it’s too expensive to clean it up. Meanwhile, environmentalists
are studying the effects of plastic on marine life, and the results are truly scary.
[4.4] page 45, Exercise 2b
fossil fuels
harmful chemicals
trash cans
marine life
production line
recycling container
garbage dump
[4.5] page 46, Exercise 2
A:
Have you heard the story about the three boys who were rescued after fifty days at sea?
B:
No… Fifty days at sea?
A:
Yeah, apparently they survived by drinking rainwater, and they even managed to catch a
seagull…
B:
A seagull? How did they do that?
A:
Yes. It landed on the boat and they ate it raw.
B:
They did what?
A:
Yeah, apparently raw seagull is better than raw fish…
B:
Mm, I’m not so sure…
A:
Well, they ate raw fish, too, it seems… but raw fish is supposed to be saltier and makes you
thirsty.
B:
It is? Ah, yes, I suppose so, from the seawater. And what did they drink?
18
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
They collected rainwater in the night… They even had to drink their own urine.
Oh, no. They didn’t!
Yes, they did—and apparently they’d got so desperate that at the end they’d even started
drinking seawater.
Seawater? That’s supposed to be really bad for you, isn’t it? Though I’m not sure why.
Yeah, it speeds up dehydration I think…
So how were they rescued, then?
A tuna boat picked them up. They were really lucky—they were kilometers away from any
shipping lanes. Their families thought they were dead. They’d already held a memorial service
for the boys…
They had? Well, they must have been really happy to see them!
[4.6] page 46, Responding to news
1
A:
Three men broke into the bakery last night.
B:
They did what? Which one, the one around the corner?
A:
Yes, that’s right. The local bakery.
2
A:
My brother destroyed my bike on Saturday.
B:
Your bike? How did he do that?
A:
He rode into a tree.
3
A:
Lydia got the job, you know,
B:
Did she? That’s great, I’m so happy for her!
A:
Yeah, she’s starting next week.
19
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 5: Bridges, Borders and Barriers
[5.1] page 49, Exercise 1b
A:
Well, the computer screen is an easy one to analyze, isn’t it?
B:
Yes, social networking sites like Facebook allow you to contact anybody in the world.
A:
Yeah, for example, you can find someone you’ve lost touch with… it provides that link, so I
guess that Facebook could be building bridges.
B:
And… and we could also say the Internet reaches across borders, too.
A:
But then that can be a problem, can’t it? Some people see Facebook and Twitter as an invasion
of privacy, you know…
B:
OK, so, then you can put up barriers, even block particular people completely so they can never
get in touch with you.
A:
Right, I see what you mean.
B:
You have to do something to prevent everyone from seeing everything about your private life,
otherwise it can be dangerous. Too much information!
A:
Yeah, you’re right about that. OK. What’s next?
B:
Now I really like this photo… it’s beautiful really, I mean…
A:
I think it symbolizes reaching out… breaking down barriers between ages, bridging the
generation gap. Sometimes there’s this big gap between two people because of age.
B:
I guess that’s why it’s there, it’s like a contrast with the Facebook image, the woman sitting
alone looking at the screen, and here the two people are together, shaking hands, about to enjoy
each other’s company, however different they may be.
A:
Yeah… and joining hands refers to establishing new links with people and how we can do that.
And now finally this sad image…
B:
Keep Out! Yeah, that’s sad, I guess.
A:
You know, I was told that this photo was taken on the border between the USA and Mexico, in
the state of Arizona.
B:
Wow, OK, that’s symbolic… So, it’s saying you can’t cross this land for two reasons: one,
because it could be private land or two, because it might be a different country. So that’s a
barrier as well, of course, something that divides nations and people, that stops them from
connecting… It’s the opposite of the image of the two people shaking hands, connecting. Here a
border or a wall can only separate…
[5.2] page 50, Exercise 2
1 Jordi
I mainly use it to keep up with my friends. When we left college last year, we all went our separate
ways. A few of us still live in the same town, but, you know, we all have very busy lives and sometimes
it’s not easy to get together. Sharing stuff like links and music and funny comments really helps us feel
like we’re still in touch. It’s like I’m seeing them every day—just like when we were students.
2 Karina
Social networking isn’t just about staying in touch with friends, you know. It does a lot, lot more. There
are some really good pages dedicated to communities and good causes, like raising money for breast
cancer research, or helping build bridges between richer and poorer countries. And when there’s a major
20
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
international news story, like an earthquake, a demonstration or an act of terrorism, you can learn so
much more, and so much more quickly on a social network like Facebook or Twitter than you can on the
news.
3 Thom
I used to use social networks to share photos of my family vacations, but now I use it to help me with
my work. There are so many other people out there doing the same work as me, and they’re all
interested in sharing new information and new techniques. It’s a great way to learn, and the job market’s
changing so quickly. I think it’s the only possible way to stay up to date.
[5.3] page 51, Exercise 1a
1
Are you doing anything special this weekend?
2
What are you going to do after the class?
3
When are you going to do your homework?
[5.4] page 53, Exercise 2a
With today’s technology, it doesn’t matter that a mountain range or a sea divides two countries. There
are ways around these obstacles. One of the most important projects in the world along this line has just
reached a milestone. Yes, Switzerland’s Gotthard Base Tunnel is about to become the world’s longest
railroad tunnel. The engineering team has just completed the drilling work in the Swiss Alps. The tunnel
covers a distance of fifty-seven kilometers. It actually consists of two single-track tunnels, which,
together with the shafts and passages that link the two tunnels, cover a total of 115 kilometers. But
you’ll have to wait some time before you can actually travel through it. The Swiss Federal Railway
intends to open the tunnel to the general public in 2017. The tunnel is expected to shorten travel time
between Switzerland and Milan dramatically for locals, business travelers and tourists. The trip from
Zurich to Milan will be cut by two hours, thus reducing the travel time to ninety minutes. This is bound
to increase traffic and trade between the two cities. However, the project has been controversial; eight
people have been killed in the construction work, and green campaigners complained of environmental
damage to these beautiful mountains. On the other side of the world, a different kind of milestone is
being celebrated: the beginning of a new project. The Chinese authorities have just given the go-ahead
for what is certain to be the longest highway bridge in the world, joining the city of Macao to Hong
Kong. In fact, there will be a series of highway bridges and tunnels that will connect Hong Kong on the
east side of the Pearl River Delta with Macao and the mainland Chinese city of Zhuhai on the west. At
present it takes four and a half hours to make the trip by car, but the project hopes to cut the driving time
to forty minutes. Local politicians and economists claim that it is bound to have a positive effect on the
economy of the developing regions west of the delta. “The new transportation network aims to improve
finance, logistics and professional services in the Pearl River Delta,” said a statement posted on the
Hong Kong government website. The bridge will eventually be a six-lane expressway and is expected to
cost at least 107 billion dollars. It will include the building of two artificial islands. It is due to be
completed in 2016. The project also plans to boost the construction industry, and when completed, the
link will be a vital route for both trade and tourism. Environmental groups complain, though, of damage
to the natural habitat of the Chinese white dolphin, among other species.
[5.5] page 56, Exercise 2a
1
21
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
2
C:
D:
C:
D:
C:
D:
C:
D:
C:
D:
C:
D:
C:
D:
C:
Thank you. May I have your arrival card as well, Mr. Bianchi?
There you go.
Thanks. And your passport, please? Where are you staying in Thailand? You need to fill in that
part as well.
OK, sorry, it’s the Crowne Plaza hotel.
Is your trip for business or pleasure?
I’m on vacation.
And what is your occupation, sir?
Civil servant.
OK. And how long are you intending to stay here?
Three weeks.
And where are you traveling from?
Los Angeles. The United Airlines flight. There, you see…
OK. Are you planning to visit other parts of the country?
Yes, I want to visit Chiang Mai.
Oh, it’s very nice there… Well, I think that’s enough information. Thank you and welcome to
Thailand, Mr. Bianchi. Bye. Next, please!
Hello. Place your index finger there, Mrs. Strauss.
OK.
OK, now look straight ahead at the camera for two seconds… Thanks. Passport.
There you go.
Occupation?
I’m a dentist.
And… you’re from Germany but a resident of Spain, correct?
That’s right.
Why are you visiting Canada?
My brother lives here.
Are you going to stay with him?
Yes, I am. Here, in Toronto. I put the address here.
And you’re leaving… let me see… in ten days’ time, is that right?
Yes, that’s right. Here’s my return ticket…
OK, fine, that’ll be everything, then. Next!
[5.6] page 56, Exercise 3a
1
Where are you staying in Thailand?
2
And how long are you intending to stay here?
3
And where are you traveling from?
4
Are you planning to visit other parts of the country?
5
Are you going to stay with him?
6
And you’re leaving in ten days’ time, is that right?
[5.7] page 56, Sounding friendly or unfriendly
1
Thank you and welcome to Thailand, Mr. Bianchi. Bye. Next, please!
2
OK, fine, that’ll be everything, then. Next!
22
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 6: Global and Local
[6.1] page 58, Exercise 3a
Today, we’re going to look at some typical festivals that take place every year and what happens when
these are held in different parts of the world. Some you’ll be familiar with and others you probably
won’t. Eid is an Arabic word meaning “festivity,” while fitr means “conclusion of the fast,” and so the
holiday commemorates the conclusion of the thirty days of daytime fasting that Muslims observe during
the month of Ramadan. Of course, it’s celebrated in the entire Muslim world, and nowadays that
includes countries like the UK where the Muslim community represents an important, and growing,
ethnic minority. Since 2007, this event has been held in Trafalgar Square in London, and it’s called “Eid
in the Square.” This shows how a country’s customs are altered by changes in population. It would have
been hard to imagine a Muslim festival taking place in Trafalgar Square a decade ago, but now it forms
part of the city’s multicultural identity.
[6.2] page 58, Exercise 3b
So, that’s a good example of a festival that now takes place in a country that never used to celebrate it.
Globalization and shifting populations are responsible for that. Nowadays, many countries also celebrate
well-known festivals such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween or Carnival even though they have no direct
link with their culture. This might also be because consumerism is taking over these celebrations. Two
not so well-known events that have a Japanese connection are interesting in this respect because they
show that globalization does not just mean Americanization. Americans adopt customs from other
countries as well. The first is the Cherry Blossom Festival, known as Hanami, which is celebrated every
spring in Japan. People hold outdoor parties and admire the trees. And it is also well-known in the USA
now. There the celebration commemorates March 27, 1912, the date when the mayor of Tokyo gave a
present to the city of Washington. Mayor Ozaki donated cherry trees in an effort to enhance the
friendship between the United States and Japan and to celebrate the continued close links between the
two nations. Now the festival includes a parade, a ten-mile run and an alternative music festival called
Cherry Blast, all very American phenomena. A Japanese festival has evolved into an American festival.
Another celebration, Cosplay, is also of Japanese origin. Cosplay means costume play. The idea is that
you can dress up as characters from comics, video games and fantasy movies. In fact, you can pretend to
be any person from the real or virtual world. This Japanese festival has now taken off in many countries
all over the world. The photo in front of me shows young Cosplay fans dressed as characters from
Japanese manga, outside the Frankfurt Book Fair in Germany, another example of how an international
event adapts to the changing tastes of a globalized world. But when local cultures are transformed, are
these changes for the better or for the worse? Are they permanent or temporary? Do countries lose
something of their cultural identity if they modify their behavior in this way?
[6.3] page 60, Exercise 1
1
The Carnival is OK, but you have to be careful of thieves. Going to the parade is an easy way to
lose your money if you ask me.
2
It’s only three days and there’s a unique atmosphere here. It’s a great time to be in Berlin. You
can’t miss it!
3
It’s an interesting way to find out about cultures; the world comes to Berlin! You can learn so
much and it’s so entertaining.
23
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
4
I think Berlin is the worst place to be at Carnival time. It’s too noisy and it’s full of tourists. And
it’s so commercial now. Everything is so expensive; it’s a good idea to stay away.
[6.4] page 61, Exercise 1a
At the end of October we have a special festival. It’s at the same time as All Saints on the first of
November, and it takes the same name, Todos Santos. There’s nothing religious about it, and I don’t
know of anywhere else that has the same celebration. Basically the vendors in the local markets close up
shop for a day and dress up their goods—meat, fish, fruit or vegetables. Each stand has a different
theme; they tend to be humorous, like pigs dressed up in bikinis or fish smoking cigars, that kind of
thing. In the evening the people line up to see the winners, and there’s a concert in the market square.
Recently people have been complaining that the festival is losing followers. Children used to dress up
fruit and vegetables to take to school. Now more and more are dressing up as ghosts and monsters and
throwing Halloween parties instead. They’re worried that if children start celebrating Halloween instead
of Todos Santos, the old traditions will disappear. Last year there was a protest against the “American
invader” with storekeepers in the old town refusing to sell Halloween costumes. I can’t see any harm in
it myself, but then, who knows, maybe they’re right.
[6.5] page 62, Exercise 1
I = Interviewer E = Eshan
I:
Hi, in our podcast this week, Eshan Brice tells us about a new group of superheroes who are
hoping to take over the world. Hi, Eshan. So, tell us something about these new superheroes.
Who are they?
E:
Well, the 99 are a group of young people from all over the world. Each one comes from a
different country, each one has a special, unique superpower that they have been given by one of
99 mystical Noor stones.
[6.6] page 62, Exercise 2a
E:
Each one comes from a different country and has a special, unique superpower they have been
given by one of 99 mystical Noor stones.
I:
Noor stones?
E:
Yes, these stones represent the 99 virtues, the 99 positive qualities of Allah that are described in
the Qur’an. The 99—this is the name given to this group of young superheroes—are the world’s
first Islamic superheroes. Their creator, Naif Al-Mutawa, wanted to take the universally popular
figure of the superhero, an American invention, and make it more relevant to young Muslims. He
wanted to give young Muslims everywhere role models they could be proud of and offer the
world a positive image of the teachings of Islam.
I:
So what’s the story behind it all?
E:
Well, the story starts in the thirteenth century. The great library in Baghdad known as the House
of Wisdom has been destroyed, but the knowledge contained in its thousands of books has been
saved. It has been stored in 99 mystical stones, the Noor stones, or the stones of light.
I:
The stones you talked about earlier?
E:
Exactly. Those stones are said to contain all the knowledge and power of all human wisdom. To
save the stones from the invaders they are sent to the farthest corners of the world. Each stone is
sent to a different destination where it remains hidden for hundreds of years.
I:
Until now I suppose?
24
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
E:
E:
E:
I:
E:
I:
Yes, that’s it. Now, in the twenty-first century, a psychiatrist, a descendant of the guardians of
the House of Wisdom, Dr. Ramzi Razem, is looking for the stones. He believes he can use their
power to fight evil and save the planet. I: Of course—the classic mission of all superheroes! So,
who are the 99?
They are 99 young people from around the world, and each one finds one of the stones. And the
stone gives them a superpower. Each power is different, each power is unique. Some have
classical superpowers like super strength or super speed; others have more unusual powers like
the ability to create light or to become invisible. Dr. Razem’s mission is to bring these young
people together, to teach them how to use their powers to fight darkness and evil. I: But who
exactly are they fighting against?
The main bad guy in the story is Rughal. He too knows about the stones and their powers, but of
course he wants to use the powers for his own personal gains. He wants to create an army of
superheroes who will follow his commands and take over the whole world. He has no
superpowers himself, but he’s a strong character. None of the 99 is strong enough to fight him
alone. If they want to win, they have to work as a team and learn about the three key values of
tolerance, acceptance and cooperation.
So, has the series been a success so far?
The series has become incredibly popular. The comics have sold millions of copies, both in the
Arab world and beyond. In 2009, the TV series was launched. In 2010, the 99 teamed up with
Superman, Batman and the other superheroes of the Justice League to fight together against evil.
So yes, I guess they’re a success.
Thank you, Eshan. So, are the 99 just another set of comic book heroes, or can they really be a
new force for good in real life? Write and let us know what you think! Send us an e-mail or leave
a comment.
[6.7] page 63, Exercise 2a
1
A:
It says thirty degrees and sunny for tomorrow.
B:
That can’t be right! It’s winter there right now. Are you sure it’s not thirteen degrees?
A:
OK, I’ll check again.
2
A:
It’s a private party… your name isn’t on the guest list.
B:
I’m sorry, but that must be a mistake.
A:
I’m sorry…
B:
Can I have a look?
3
A:
I’ve heard he’s getting married again, you know.
B:
Really? I suppose it might be true, but he’s very old.
A:
It is true. Denise told me…
B:
Don’t believe everything she tells you.
4
A:
I think it’s good they lost the game; it’ll make the team work harder.
B:
I suppose you could say that.
C:
Yeah, but it’s still three points lost though.
25
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[6.8] page 63, Exercise 3
1
Superman has been banned in elementary schools.
2
Teachers say children should watch at least five hours of TV a day.
3
Experts now say that video games can be good for kids.
4
Cartoon superheroes are good role models for children.
[6.9] page 66, Exercise 2
K = Katya M = Mario
K:
Look at this ad, there’s a flight for twenty dollars.
M:
Oh no, not another one…
K:
You’re not a big fan of budget flights, are you?
M:
Well, no, not really. These low prices mean that everybody travels now, the sky is full of planes,
people take trips that they don’t need to take.
K:
So are you saying that not everyone should be allowed to travel? Just a select few who have the
money?
M:
No, everybody should have the right to if they want to. What I meant was that before, we had to
have a good reason to travel; now, it’s so cheap and convenient, everybody does it all the time. I
don’t think that’s good.
K:
What exactly do you mean? When can you say a trip is necessary or not? I think budget flights
have done some great things. It’s been great for local economies, small towns with airports now
have a tourist industry, and we all can discover more of the world, can’t we?
M:
Right, OK, but what… at what cost? The world is being destroyed by tourism. You can go
anywhere now, and nothing’s unspoiled anymore. What I’m trying to say is, wherever you go,
there are tourists. It’s horrible! And budget flights have done that to the planet.
K:
Well, I see your point, but what we can do about it?
M:
There’s nothing we can do. The world is just a smaller, uglier place because of them.
K:
But then all air travel has done that, not just budget flights.
M:
True, but I have a particular dislike of the budget…
K:
So, do you mean you won’t be going on vacation again? Anywhere?
M:
Well, I don’t know about that…
[6.10] page 66
1
A:
So, you’re saying you would ban Halloween and other foreign festivals and only have local
ones?
B:
No, what I meant was that we need to preserve our traditions, that’s all.
2
A:
OK, sorry, I’ll rephrase the question. What I’m saying is would you rather eat a locally grown
apple or an imported one? It’s a simple question.
26
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Review B
[R7] page 68, Exercise 4
1
There’s water everywhere! The torrential rain brought devastation, and this village suffered the
most. This is the worst flood in living memory.
2
Some of the buildings were built to withstand this kind of tremor, but others fell as if they were
made of paper. The earthquake caused great destruction in the poorer parts of town…
3
It hit the coast with tremendous force. The wind direction changed suddenly and nobody was
prepared, partly because it was the first hurricane of the season.
[R8] page 68, Exercise 2
1
A:
Sorry, I’m late. I was caught in this really bad storm!
B:
A storm?
A:
Yeah, didn’t it rain where you were?
B:
No, not here.
2
A:
What a disastrous vacation! In fact, we came back early.
B:
You didn’t!
A:
We did! The weather was terrible and there’s nothing to do on the beach if the weather’s bad, is
there?
[R9] page 69, Exercise 2
1
People use social networks to get in touch with friends.
2
Soccer is a way of breaking down barriers and uniting people.
3
English can reach across borders because it’s a universal language.
4
Countries should build more bridges and tunnels to connect with other nations.
[R10] page 69, Exercise 2
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
Where are you traveling from?
Los Angeles.
How long are you going to stay in Hong Kong?
Three weeks.
Where are you staying here? In a hotel?
No, I’m going to stay with my brother.
And are you planning on visiting other parts of China?
No, I’m not.
Is this your first time in Hong Kong?
No, I’ve been here before.
27
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[R11] page 70, Exercise 2c
The Piazza San Marco is a real must. It’s a good idea to go in the spring because it’s not too hot then.
The worst thing you can do is go during Carnival–it’s full of tourists. If you have the time, don’t miss an
Italian opera.
[R12] page 70, Exercise 3b
Just a few things to bear in mind on your first day. We’ll pick you up from the station at 10 o’clock and
we’ll take you to your hotel to freshen up. Call us when you want to leave, and a car will take you to the
conference, say at 11:30 a.m.? You’ll be there until the morning sessions finish at 2 o’clock and then
we’ll go to lunch. After that, you’ll be able to rest until it’s time for the evening events.
[R13] page 70, Exercise 2
1
A:
Thanks for all in the info. So are you saying that I’m free from lunch until the evening?
B:
That’s right.
A:
Great!
2
A:
And another thing I don’t understand is what the evening events are…
B:
They’re just public relations.
A:
Sorry?
B:
What I mean is meeting potential clients, being nice to people.
28
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 7: Is This Yours?
[7.1] page 72, Exercise 2a
1
These treasured possessions—a few chairs, a carpet, a photograph and some old records—are looking
for their owners. They are, in a way, lost property, but nobody threw these things away. These are
household contents that have been left by a natural disaster, Hurricane Ivan. Ivan was one of the most
intense hurricanes ever recorded and, in 2004, caused heavy damage in Jamaica and Cuba before
affecting Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. This photo was taken in Pensacola, Florida. Homes were
destroyed and private property scattered everywhere. Did anyone ever claim these articles, I wonder?
2
These family belongings—toys, chairs, laundry baskets—are not in the street because these people are
moving. They are there because the police have just removed them from an apartment in Lafayette,
Colorado. The people living there could not pay the rent, so the owner had them evicted. As the
economic crisis continues, many Americans are finding it hard to pay their rent or mortgage. If this
continues, more and more stuff like this will start appearing on our streets.
3
This photo shows six objects that the family and friends of miner Edison Peña sent him while he was
trapped underground. Edison was one of thirty-three Chilean miners trapped underground for sixty-nine
days at the San José mine after it collapsed on August 5, 2010. He received these objects through a
narrow tube that acted as a lifeline, sending food, water and allowing regular contact between families
and their trapped loved ones. The six objects include a picture of his idol, Elvis Presley, some socks and
earplugs. Not long before his rescue, Edison sent these personal items back up to the surface.
[7.2] page 72, Exercise 5a
1
The objects laid out on the ground like that, that’s an amazing image… Elvis Presley and earplugs! It
makes you think about what it might be like to be stuck underground all that time, not knowing if you’re
ever going to see your family again. I wonder why this man treasured those particular objects so much.
And why did he send them back up to the surface?
2
I think the most shocking image is the one with all the toys; that’s somebody’s life that’s just been
dumped on the street there. You think it’s somebody moving, but it isn’t and you realize they’re going to
lose everything. It’s tragic. They probably really want to hold onto their stuff, but they don’t have
anywhere to put it, so they end up just having to get rid of it.
3
When I first saw this, I didn’t really understand the meaning of the sign. I thought these were belongings
that somebody had found and wanted to give away or even sell, maybe in a market. Or I imagined that it
was junk, items people had thrown away because they look dirty and old. But now I see how powerful
the image is, and that these are things a family had to leave behind when they fled the hurricane. It was a
kind of unexpected shock when I found out. I wonder what happened to that family…
29
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[7.3] page 75, Exercise 1b
My Bed is a work of art by the British artist Tracey Emin. It is her real bed. It was first exhibited at the
Tate Gallery in London in 1998. It created a lot of discussion and debate. It was bought by the British
advertising tycoon Charles Saatchi for £150,000 to be exhibited at the Saatchi art gallery in London
when it opened its new premises in 2003.
[7.4] page 76, Exercise 1a
Today we’re in the National Toy Hall of Fame, a museum that houses a collection of some of the most
popular games and toys of all time, new ones and old ones, digital and traditional, all much loved by
adults and children alike. To join the collection a toy must be recognized and loved across the world. It
must have been used by children for several generations, and it must encourage creativity and learning.
The inside of the museum looks more like a giant playroom than a museum. There are toys and games
from, and for, all ages. You can touch and explore and play. There are giant building blocks and an
enormous train set. There are board games and puzzles. Choose your favorite one, and sit right down
and play.
[7.5] page 76, Exercise 3a
OK, I’ve spotted one or two of my childhood favorites. I’ve played with Lego blocks and a giant Mr.
Potato Head, so now it’s time to look at some of the more unusual exhibits. Here in this box is one of my
favorites. It’s so obvious, but I hadn’t thought about it as a toy before—although of course I must have
played with hundreds of them. It’s a relatively recent addition to the collection, but it must be one of the
oldest toys in history; in fact, I think it might actually be the number one toy of all time. Children of all
ages, from all over the world have played with them. You can find them everywhere. They come in all
shapes and sizes, and with a little imagination they can be anything. Even animals play with them. Have
you guessed it yet? Yes, it’s a stick! And here in the Hall of Fame there are so many different sticks, big
ones, small ones, straight ones, bent ones… and photos of all the different uses sticks can be put to…
The one in the corner is a sword, this long one is a horse and this other one is an airplane. In this photo,
someone’s drawing with one in the sand, and here they’re building a house with sticks. And of course
there’s a photo of a boy playing the most popular stick game of all: throwing one for his dog! With so
many toys to choose from, you really should come and find out which one you like best. Now, if you’ll
excuse me, I’m going to join a game of Scrabble…
[7.6] page 77, Exercise 1
1
A:
Look, that’s the one!
B:
What, the red one in the corner?
A:
Yes. Don’t you think it’s great? He’ll love it.
B:
It’s kind of small, isn’t it?
2
A:
Can I have another one, please?
B:
Yes, sure, which would you prefer?
A:
The one with the chocolate chips, please.
B:
Go on, have two, why not?
A:
No, one is enough, thanks!
3
30
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
A:
B:
A:
So which one is it going to be?
I don’t know. I like them both. What do you think?
I think the first one looks better, the rainbow one. It’ll look great in your living room.
[7.7] page 77, Exercise 1a
A:
What about you, Mark? Can you remember any childhood games?
B:
Well, yes, there’s one we used to play all the time; it was a very simple game. I guess
everybody’s played something similar. Basically there was one person who went off to hide.
A:
A kind of hide-and-seek?
B:
Yes, but in our game only one person hid and everybody else counted. We had to close our eyes
and count to fifty. The one who was “it,” you know, whose turn it was to hide, went off to find a
hiding place.
A:
Just one?
B:
Yes, that’s right. Then the rest of us would run off and look for the one hiding. When you found
where they were hiding, you had to hide with them.
A:
What? In the same place?
B:
Yes, in the same place. And the last person to find us all was the one who had to hide the next
time.
A:
Did the game have a name?
B:
Yes, we called it packed sardines—I think it’s because when we were all hiding in the same
place, it was like being in a can of sardines!
[7.8] page 79, Exercise 4b
This is my favorite object in the whole collection. It’s a very simple object, a penny, but it’s the writing
on the penny that I find interesting. Can you read it? It’s a protest. At the time, women were asking for
the right to vote. This penny is interesting for two reasons: it represents money and its importance in
society, but it also symbolizes the fight for independence and democracy.
[7.9] page 79, Exercise 1b
This beer can is interesting because it comes from a small brewery in my hometown—a company that’s
been making beer for years and years. It was the first brewery to produce beer in cans outside the U.S.
At that time, in the 1930s, beer cans didn’t have pull-tabs, you know the little metal flap you pull to
open them, like today, but bottle tops.
[7.10] page 80, Exercise 3a
A:
Hi, what you up to? Are you catching up on some work?
B:
No, I’m looking for a present for my mom.
A:
Your mom? Is it her birthday?
B:
No, it’s Mother’s Day on Sunday—remember?
A:
Oh yes, of course! I’d totally forgotten. I always give mine flowers.
B:
Yeah, well, I can’t go home to visit this Sunday, so I need to have something sent to her through
the mail. That’s why I’m looking online.
A:
Flowers. That’s easy enough.
B:
Nah, I want to get her something different, something a little more personal, you know.
A:
So what are you looking for?
31
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
I don’t know! She’s so difficult to buy for. She’s always complaining that her house is cluttered
and too full of stuff, so I can’t buy her a picture or a plant or anything like that.
Get her something for the kitchen. You know, some kind of kitchen appliance.
No, she’d hate that! No, I want to get her something for her, something she can enjoy.
A book maybe?
No, more stuff!
Music?
I don’t know. Her taste is so different from mine, I just never seem to get it right.
Chocolates?
She does love chocolate, but no, she says she’s trying to lose weight, so she wouldn’t thank me
for that!
Hey, what about this?
What?
This link here—see. It says “experiences.”
Experiences? What’s that?
It’s stuff like tickets to concerts, a free trip somewhere, or something like dinner for two, or a
day at a spa, that kind of thing.
Hey, that might be a good idea. Let’s look at the spas. I like this one—a day for two at a local
spa.
Check to see if there’s one near where she lives.
Yes, there is. Great, that’s it! Problem solved. Thank you! It’ll be a nice surprise for her. What
about you? Are you going to get something similar for your mom?
Nah, I’ll just get flowers.
[7.11] page 80, Exercise 6b
1
A:
What would you like for your birthday?
B:
I’d like something different like a ticket to a concert or a trip to a spa or something.
2
A:
We really should get a thank-you present for the neighbors.
B:
Yes, you’re right. I think we should get something small, just a token, maybe some sort of pastry
or something.
3
A:
Do you have any ideas about what I can buy for your sister for her birthday?
B:
She really loves ethnic stuff, you know, incense, candles, ornaments, that kind of thing.
[7.12] page 80, Stress
I’d like something different…
We should get something small…
…maybe some kind of pastry.
She really loves ethnic stuff, you know, incense, candles, ornaments, that kind of thing.
[7.13] page 81, Exercise 2a
1
32
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
You probably wonder what this is. It’s not something valuable or precious or anything like that, but it
has great sentimental value. I guess it’s one of my most treasured possessions, and it has some very
special associations for me. What? Well, I was in Mexico on vacation a few years ago, and I was staying
in a hotel on the beach. Anyway, in the hotel they gave us a free gift, and it was this. When you got into
the room, there was this little animal next to your bed. When I checked out, I took the toy with me. I
travel a lot for work, and whenever I travel I take the tortoise with me. It’s like a reminder of home,
something familiar among the unfamiliar. It’s embarrassing to admit it, I guess, because I’m an adult
and I shouldn’t be traveling around with a child’s toy. Now, when I arrive at a new hotel, the first thing I
do is place the little animal next to my bed. When I wake up in the morning, there it is and I like to see
it. I know it’s stupid, but there’s something reassuring about having it with me. The funny thing is, if I
lost it or left it behind, I don’t think I’d be sad because I realize it’s silly to be attached to a toy.
2
It wasn’t difficult for me to choose an important object. I can’t live without my glasses because I can’t
read without them: it’s as simple as that. I mean, they’re an absolute necessity. I can’t leave the house
without them. These particular glasses are fairly new. I’ve only had them for about two months. I had
my old ones for years, and of course my prescription changed. By the end I couldn’t see a thing with the
old ones; these new ones are great. I try and make sure I always keep them in the same place, but
sometimes I put them down somewhere else… and I can spend ages looking around the apartment until I
find them! It’s terrible to be so dependent on something. I guess I could get a spare pair; that would
solve that problem. I should do that…
33
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 8: Telling a Different Story
[8.1] page 83, Exercise 4a
1
Well, I’m not sure. I don’t think women like soccer much. Soccer stadiums are usually full of men,
aren’t they? But, yes it does bring people together. People are always exchanging stories and opinions
about it. My problem with soccer is that it’s always in the media. Every time you turn on the news or
open a newspaper, it’s always the same old story—soccer, soccer, soccer. What if you’re not interested
in soccer?
2
Yes, absolutely right. Hip-hop is a great way to express yourself. It’s like poetry you recite, that you
read aloud. People can find a voice when they rap, and women do it, too, of course! Just because of one
or two well-known cases years ago, now all we get is negative stereotypes about it. People prefer to
marginalize it and make up these lies. It’s time to tell the other side of the story.
[8.2] page 85, Exercise 1b
curious
poverty
opposite
beautiful
outsider
initial
official
incredible
[8.3] page 86, Exercise 1
So, here we are—day three in London! We’ve been so busy; it’s such an incredible city. On the first day
here, we did all the usual tourist things. We went for a ride on an open-top bus, we saw Trafalgar
Square, Tower Bridge, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, of course! Yesterday we took it easy. In
the morning we had a long, slow breakfast at a street café, watching the people go by, just unwinding,
having coffee. Then we went shopping; there are some great street markets in London and some great
bargain hunting to do. My favorite is Camden Market. We had a great time browsing the different stands
and so on. I bought a couple of T-shirts and we had some delicious Indian food. It was really cheap as
well. But today has been the best day of all. We went on a walking tour. There are so many great
walking tours in London, but this was a tour with a difference. They’re called the Unseen Tours. The
guides are homeless people, people who live and sleep on the street. The tours are organized by
volunteers, and eighty percent of the ticket price goes to the guides. They told us to meet them on the
street at 3 p.m. and to bring a camera!
[8.4] page 86, Exercise 3a
It was the most interesting tour I’ve ever been on. Our guides knew so much about their city. They told
us stories about history, about the famous people who’d lived on those streets. But they also told us their
personal stories—stories about living on the street and all the good and bad things that can happen there.
34
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
We asked them to show us where they slept, and they told us how to avoid pickpockets and where to get
the best cup of tea. At the end of the tour we all went to a pub to continue our conversations. We asked
so many questions! It was fascinating to be able to get to know our guide and get such an interesting
insight into a whole new side of London. I took some great photos, too, by the way. I really feel like I
know the city so much better now. If you’re ever in London, I really recommend these tours. I wonder if
they’d work back home as well. The Unseen Tours of São Paulo. It’s certainly an idea that’s worth
thinking about!
[8.5] page 89, Exercise 1a
A:
Did you read that article I sent you?
B:
Yeah, interesting. I was thinking about that the other day…
A:
What, citizen journalism?
B:
Yeah, you know, and all the stuff about Twitter and people finding out about the news from the
people who are there, you know, like the fire the other day.
A:
The fire? Oh, you mean the one in the hotel?
B:
Yeah… I mean, you know, the first thing I heard was from my roommate when he came home.
He’d been riding his bike near there, and he said he’d seen this huge cloud of smoke… but he
didn’t know where it was coming from…
A:
I saw that cloud, too—it was massive!
B:
Yeah, well, we looked it up on the Internet… you know, on the local newspaper’s website…
A:
…and there was nothing there?
B:
No… no… There was a story there, with a photo and some eyewitness reports—you know,
guests who were staying at the hotel, passersby, that kind of thing…
A:
Yeah…
B:
And the story said there were forty people stuck on the roof… but that’s all… no more
information; so we went on Twitter and it was amazing!
A:
Really?
B:
Yeah—there were two people actually tweeting from the rooftop! With photos and comments
and quotes from the other people on the roof. It was fascinating… so much detail… and a
minute-by-minute commentary. We really got caught up in it!
A:
I bet!
B:
Yeah… I mean, the news story was interesting, but normally I’d have given it about two minutes
of my time, but the Twitter side of the story was like watching a movie or something!
[8.6] page 90, Exercise 1a
S = Secretary N = Natalie M = Marc D = Damian
1
N:
Hello. May I speak to Peter Moorcroft, please?
S:
Hold the line, please.
N:
OK, no problem.
S:
Hello, I’m afraid Peter isn’t picking up the call. Do you want me to take a message?
N:
I just wanted to check that he’d received a file from me.
S:
Who’s speaking?
N:
It’s Natalie Martin. I sent him a file this morning, and I just wanted to know if he received it. It’s
important. Could you ask him to call me, please?
35
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
S:
N:
S:
N:
2
M:
Of course. I take it he has your number, Natalie?
Yes.
Fine. I’ll let him know.
Thanks.
You’ve reached the voice mail of Sabine Meyer. Please leave a message after the tone.
Sabine, listen. It’s Marc. You won’t believe this, I’m still at the airport. Uh… there are terrible
delays, same old story… Um… I won’t be able to travel tonight. So… do you think you could
call Pamela? Tell her not to pick me up at the airport or text me her number. I don’t have it for
some reason. Thanks a lot! Bye!
3
D:
The cell phone you’ve called is turned off or currently unavailable. Leave a message after the
tone.
Sarah, hi, this is Damian. I’m in the square. Where are you? You asked me to be here at 4:15,
didn’t you? I texted you before. Call me, I’m here, OK, in front of the town hall? OK, bye!
[8.7] page 90, Exercise 5a
S = Secretary P = Peter S = Sabine Pa = Pamela Sr = Sarah
1
S:
Hello, Peter.
P:
Yes.
S:
Natalie Martin has just called. She told me that she sent you an important file. Can you let her
know that you received it OK?
P:
Oh, yes, I forgot. Yes, I’ll call her right back.
2
Sa:
Pamela?
Pa:
Hello, yes?
Sa:
It’s me, Sabine. Listen, Marc just called. He said he wouldn’t be able to travel tonight, so don’t
pick him up at the airport.
Pa:
How come?
Sa:
Terrible delays. He told me to give you that message, OK?
Pa:
What a shame.
Sa:
Could you call him? He sounded pretty annoyed.
3
Sr:
Hi! Damian, I got your message. It’s Sarah. Are you there already?
D:
Of course! I’m waiting for you.
Sr:
But why? I told you that we were meeting at 5:15, silly, not 4:15.
D:
What? Really, that’s weird. I’m sure that you said 4:15. Oh, well. I’ll go and get a cup of coffee
then. Just get here when you can.
Sr:
OK, I’m on my way!
[8.8] page 90, Stress
I told you that we were meeting at 5:15… not 4:15…
Tell her not to pick me up at the airport.
36
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[8.9] page 91, Exercise 2a
A:
Hi, Gary. Is it a good time for you to talk? Now, I wonder if you could prepare the following
things for next week’s meeting on the tenth. Can you take this down?
B:
Sure, of course.
A:
Well, we have to get an agenda together and send it out to all parties ASAP. Can you do that by
this afternoon?
B:
Fine.
A:
Then get in touch with Sandra in marketing, and have her bring up some publicity material—
dossiers, posters, etc. We’ll need all that to show to the clients.
B:
OK, no problem. Anything else?
A:
We’re going to have a cocktail party in the evening, and we’ll need to have it catered. Can I
leave that up to you?
B:
Sure.
A:
And can you decide who would do a better job? Remember, it’s a small gathering—twenty
people maximum. Very exclusive.
B:
I think Richards would do a good job.
A:
Well, you decide.
B:
Sure.
A:
Oh, yes, and another thing, it has nothing to do with the meeting, but it’s urgent.
B:
Yes?
A:
Can you call de Freitas about that shipment to Mexico, that has to go out tomorrow at the latest?
B:
OK, will do. I’d better go then. Bye!
A:
Sure, talk to you later then. Bye!
[8.10] page 91, Exercise 5
A:
Martin, do you have a minute?
B:
Sure, of course. What can I do for you?
A:
We need to straighten out the details of our stand at the convention next week. It’s urgent, OK? I
want you to be at the conference center on Monday, OK, to meet the guys who are setting up the
stand.
B:
Right, sure, Monday, you said?
A:
Yes. Now, do you have the designs for the stand?
B:
Yes, we’re going for something simple, black and white.
A:
Sounds great, and how much staff are we going to need at the convention?
B:
I guess a team of six should do it. I’ll work out a schedule.
A:
Thanks a lot. Just e-mail all that info will you, as soon as you can?
B:
OK, no problem.
A:
Thanks, talk soon.
B:
Bye.
37
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 9: Rules and Regulations
[9.1] page 93, Exercise 2
1
A:
It was really ironic. I mean, the presentation was all about using cell phones in marketing, and
there on the door to the room was this big sign: No Cell Phones Allowed!
B:
You mean, like, turn off all cell phones?
A:
Yeah, that’s it. You know, a big picture of a cell phone with a slash through it!
B:
Oh, no! That is ironic!
A:
And totally unnecessary! I mean, come on, what century are we in?
B:
So, did you turn your phones off?
A:
Nah, of course not—I mean, it’s not as if cell phones were illegal. In fact, we used them all the
way through the presentation; they showed us some great new apps as well. It’s amazing what
you can do with cell phones these days!
B:
It is, isn’t it?
2
A:
I saw this really funny sign in the park today.
B:
Yeah?
A:
Yeah, I’d never seen it before… It was, like, a high-heeled shoe with a slash through it.
B:
What? A shoe?
A:
Yeah, with high heels, in the children’s playground…
B:
You mean like no high heels allowed, for the moms I guess, not the kids?
A:
Yeah.
B:
They have a point, though. I mean, how can you play with your kids if you’re in high heels?
A:
I don’t think that’s the real reason.
B:
No?
A:
No, it’s because the heels damage the surface, you know, the soft rubber surface under the
swings and things…
B:
Ah, yes, of course, it makes sense now… I guess it’s a little selfish and a little irresponsible to
wear shoes that are going to damage the kids’ play area!
[9.2] page 94, Exercise 1a
I = Interviewer R1 = Respondent 1 R2 = Respondent 2
I:
So, what’s the situation in your school? Are you allowed to access the Internet on the school
computers?
R1:
In the library we have laptops that we can use to access the Internet, but there’s a very strong
firewall. We can’t access YouTube or Facebook, for example, and a lot of music sites and
chatrooms are blocked. In class, we use laptops as well—and sometimes our homeroom teacher
lets us use our cell phones to access sites that are blocked on the computers. Most of the teachers
hate cell phones! They make us turn them off as soon as we enter the classroom. One teacher
makes us leave them on the desk at the front of the classroom, and we aren’t allowed to have
them back until the end of the day! I think that’s a little extreme, but I guess I kind of understand
as well. I think they can be really distracting sometimes.
38
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
I:
R2:
I:
R1:
So, what’s the situation in your school?
Our school computers are carefully controlled, a lot of social networking and music sites are
blocked. Students aren’t allowed to access music sites or chatrooms on the school computers. I
think it makes sense from a security point of view. And, anyway, they can do all that on their cell
phones.
What about phones? Are those banned?
No, not at all. Students are allowed to bring their cell phones to class. It can be really good
because then we don’t have to rely on the school Wi-Fi, which isn’t always very efficient! And
they’re great for making recordings, taking photos, preparing presentations and so on. Of course
students must be taught to be responsible. We don’t share phone numbers in case of
cyberbullying, and we have to monitor their use very closely. They mustn’t misuse the Internet
whether it’s on their phones or on a computer. We’re very strict with offenders. They have to
learn about good and bad use of the Internet, and I think that’s something we really must help
them with; it’s such an important skill for their futures. We talk about it a lot in class, too…
responsibilities and duties and safety, above all safety. They really need to know about the
dangers of the Internet. I think that’s a really important part of my job.
[9.3] page 95, Exercise 1a
Students are allowed to bring their phones to school, but they aren’t allowed to bring them to class.
[9.4] page 87, Exercise 2a
1
We aren’t allowed to park anywhere downtown.
2
Kids are allowed to play soccer in the street.
3
Cars are allowed downtown.
4
People are allowed to play loud music.
5
People aren’t usually allowed to drink on the street.
6
Dogs aren’t allowed in the parks.
[9.5] page 96, Exercise 3
A = Anchor M = Marianne
A:
Today we have a story of a modern day Quixote fighting against the windmills of the new
Spanish smoking law. Marianne Allen reports from Marbella, where bars, restaurants and cafés
are coming to terms with the new smoking ban while others are breaking the law! Marianne…
M:
I’m here in Marbella, on a street lined with bars and restaurants, all showing the obligatory no
smoking signs. Under the old law, smaller establishments could choose whether to be smoking or
nonsmoking, while larger establishments had to designate a special, sealed-off area for smokers.
This could not be more than one-third of the total area available to the public. A lot of smaller
establishments went for the smoking option. They lost some customers, families with small
children, for example, but their smoking clients were more than happy. They didn’t have to stand
outside to enjoy a cigarette; they could continue to smoke while they ate or drank. But then the
law changed.
A:
And what did that change mean?
M:
Well, all public bars and restaurants, along with all public buildings, children’s parks and
entrances to schools and hospitals became no smoking areas. Restaurants and bars were no
longer allowed to choose. It was a blanket ban, and it came accompanied by heavy fines and the
39
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
A:
M:
A:
risk of being closed down. Most people accepted the change. Some grumbled and complained,
but on the whole it was seen as being inevitable. But one bar and restaurant owner here in
Marbella simply refused to accept the new law. He refused to accept that he wasn’t allowed to
choose what to do in his own establishment, and he decided to make a stand against the new law.
So what did he do?
He posted signs in his bar and restaurant stating that smoking was allowed. He claimed that
banning smoking would ruin his business. He let his customers continue to smoke and didn’t
make them stand out in the street. His regular customers were happy, but the neighboring bars
and restaurants weren’t. They reported him to the authorities, and he was threatened with a fine
of 145,000 euros and of having his business closed down immediately. The rebel bar and
restaurant owner stuck to his guns. When the authorities informed him he would be closed down,
he invited a group of friends to join him in a protest at his bar and restaurant, where they spent
the whole night smoking cigarettes and cigars. There was a party atmosphere, but the party soon
came to an end. After long talks with his lawyer and the local authorities, and being forced to
close down for almost a week, the bar and restaurant owner finally agreed to take down all the
smoking signs and posters attacking the antismoking law and replace them with the regulation no
smoking signs.
And did he? Yes, he did, and now his bar and restaurant is just like all the others, and all his
customers have to go outside if they want to smoke. Will this ruin his business? Only time will
tell!
[9.6] page 97, Exercise 1a
With the rest of Europe enforcing antismoking laws, you won’t believe it, but Holland is changing its
tobacco laws. Yes, it’s true. Authorities are to amend the law to allow people to smoke in small owneroperated bars, which the Dutch call pubs. These bars are less than 70 square meters in size and have no
other staff. The antismoking law was driving these small Dutch pubs out of business. The new coalition
government has also canceled 280 fines against smokers and bar owners. The relaxation of the smoking
ban will cover more than 2,000 bars, many of which had been openly challenging the law. The decision
has been popular, as many Dutch people thought the original law did not fit the country’s liberal
reputation. “The new law will allow consumer choice. A sign will inform customers whether or not they
are allowed to smoke on the premises,” a government spokesperson said. Clean Air Netherlands, a
public health lobbying group backed by the Dutch medical associations, has launched a campaign to
bring back the ban.
[9.7] page 100, Exercise 2a
1
A:
Oh, no! I’m so sorry, that was so clumsy of me! Would you mind helping me pick them all up
again? Thanks!
B:
No, of course not, no problem, here you are… Oh, yes, and these too… Mm, I think you’re going
to need a new bag…
A:
Thank you… Yes, I will, this one’s broken… sorry.
B:
There you are… new bag… everything back in its place.
A:
Thanks a lot! You were a great help.
B:
Don’t mention it.
2
40
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
3
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
4
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
B:
5
A:
B:
A:
B:
6
A:
B:
A:
B:
Hi, do you want a hand? Can I push the stroller for you? These steps are so difficult!
Thank you! Yes, the elevator is out of order! I can usually manage stairs, but these are really
steep—and there are so many of them.
I can remember what it was like when mine were that age!
Well, thank you for offering to help; not many people do, you know.
It’s a pleasure. There you are! Bye, have a nice day.
Thank you. You, too.
Sorry, do you think you could help? It’s just so difficult with the stroller.
Sure thing, no problem. Look, let me take the stroller; it’s easier that way.
Are you sure? We can take it up together…
No, no, you have enough on your hands! There you are.
Thank you so much! That was a big help; I don’t know how I’d have done it by myself.
No problem! A pleasure… Bye.
Thanks again, bye…
Oh, no! the bag broke…
Here, let me help you…
Thank you! They’re all over the place!
Here are a few more… Oh, yes, and there’s one over here.
I think we have them all now… thank you! That was so embarrassing!
Nah, happens all the time! I blame the bag!
Thanks again. Bye.
Bye.
Do you need any help with that? It looks heavy. Here, let me do it for you.
Oh, thank you, if you don’t mind, that’d be wonderful.
No problem at all. There you are. Safe and sound.
Thank you, you’re very kind.
Excuse me, I was wondering if you could please help me with this. I don’t seem to be able to get
it up on the rack.
Yes, of course. Here, let me do it.
Thank you so much!
You’re welcome. There you are.
[9.8] page 100, Using “please”
I was wondering if you could please help me with this.
[9.9] page 101, Exercise 2a
1
Every day I take my bike on the train. Well, anyway, this morning everything was normal when an
inspector stopped me as I was getting on. He said that a new regulation had gone into effect and that
between 7 and 10 in the morning and 6 and 8 in the evening, I couldn’t get on the train with my bike.
41
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
What really makes me angry about this is that the trains are not that crowded when I get on just after 7. I
just don’t see why they had to change it. What am I going to do now?
2
Budget airlines are really getting rude. Now you have to print your boarding pass before you get on the
plane, otherwise they charge you; it happened to me. The thing was I had no idea about that change, so
yes, I had to pay right then and there. What are you supposed to do if you don’t have a printer. That’s
what I want to know. Another thing… your luggage also has to be a certain size. If it’s too large, again
you have to pay, it’s crazy. Are you really going to measure your suitcase before you go to the airport?
It’s just a way for the airlines to make more money… It would be OK if the fares were always cheap,
but they aren’t. And then there all the rules about carrying liquids on board; you can’t even take a bottle
of water. They force you to buy their expensive water… I mean flying is getting ridiculous!
3
One thing that really annoys me is the change in the speed limit. The local government announced that
the limit would drop from 120 to 100 km/h on the freeway around the downtown area. It’s to prevent
accidents and to help the environment. If we go slower, there’s less pollution it seems. Well, anyway, I
didn’t know about the change, and during the first week I was fined. It wasn’t my fault; I just didn’t see
the signs. I mean, how was I to know? I was really annoyed about that.
[9.10] page 101, Exercise 3b
1
What really made me angry about this is that the trains…
2
I just don’t see why they had to change it.
3
…the thing was I had no idea about that change so, yes, I had to pay then and there.
4
What are you supposed to do if you don’t have a printer?
5
…it wasn’t my fault, I just didn’t see the signs.
6
I mean, how was I to know? I was really annoyed about that.
42
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Review C
[R14] page 102, Exercise 2a
1
A:
Would you like to try these on? Which ones would you like to try on?
B:
I’m not sure, I think those would suit me better…
A:
Well, it depends if you want a baggy or a tight fit.
B:
I like these.
A:
Which ones?
B:
The baggy ones.
A:
Oh, but they’re not on sale, I’m afraid. Anyway, what size are you? I’ll check for you…
2
A:
Do you like it black or with milk?
B:
Black, no sugar, please.
A:
And you?
C:
I’ve already had one, thanks.
B:
You can have another one, you know…
C:
Oh, OK. Same for me… black, no sugar…
[R15] page 102, Exercise 2
1
I’m looking for a present for my nephew, he likes model trains, that kind of thing.
2
I want to go on a vacation, somewhere I can relax and have a good time, things like that.
3
Before I start the job, I need to know something more about my schedule and other conditions.
[R16] page 103, Exercise 1a
1
A:
It’s Dr. Baron. Could you give him a message, please?
B:
Sure.
A:
Tell him that I have to cancel tomorrow’s appointment, and ask him to call me, please.
B:
To make a new one?
A:
That’s right, thanks. Tell him I’m very sorry.
2
C:
OK, tell him to call this number: 0489 230388, please.
B:
Can I have your name, please?
C:
No, it’s OK. Just say it’s urgent; please tell him to call as soon as he gets back.
B:
OK, thanks.
C:
Thank you, bye.
B:
There were two calls, Robert. Dr. Baron called and said that he had to cancel the appointment.
Can you call him to make a new one? He said he was very sorry. Then somebody else called and
asked you to phone this number: 0489 230388. They said it was urgent. Can you call as soon as
possible? No, they didn’t leave a name.
43
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[R17] page 104, Exercise 3a
1
I’m looking for a present for my nephew. He likes model trains, that kind of thing.
2
I want to go on a vacation, somewhere I can relax and have a good time, things like that.
3
Before I start the job, I need to know something more about my schedule and other conditions.
[R18] page 104, Exercise 3b
A:
I was very bad at first, but somehow I managed to pass the test, and now I can cope fine. It’s all
practice.
B:
I know what you mean. I couldn’t park at first, it was awful!
C:
I was terrible at this in school, I didn’t succeed in passing a single exam. I was convinced I
couldn’t do it, but now I love it.
D:
It’s strange, isn’t it? You even write your own songs now.
[R19] page 104, Exercise 1
1
I was wondering if you could give me a hand with this bag?
2
Do you think you could give me a hand with this bag?
3
Would you mind giving me a hand with this bag?
[R20] page 105, Exercise 2
When I first started studying English, it was in a classroom very much like the one in the photo. At the
time we thought this was cutting edge, state-of-the-art technology. Our teacher always told us how lucky
we were! We used to do a lot of work in this mini language lab. The teacher would ask us to listen to
dialogues on a tape that she played on her cassette player. The individual headphones were great. We
could record our voices, too and then listen to them. We were allowed to listen to them as many times as
we wanted. Hearing my own voice really helped my pronunciation. I thought the lab was really cool!
But the rest of the time we had to do grammar exercises and vocabulary tests, and we didn’t get much
chance to speak. The course I’m taking now is so totally different… as is the classroom! We have a
projector and Wi-Fi access. We can watch videos and other clips on YouTube. I think that really helps,
though I actually prefer to do it at home when I can decide what to watch. But they’re great for starting a
conversation, and we get lots of opportunities to talk and learn through talking. I still love recording my
voice though, and playing it back and listening to it. The only difference is that now I don’t have to be in
a classroom to do it; I do it on my cell phone, so I can do it when I want, where I want. That’s the one
thing I love most about new technology—it’s all so portable!
44
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 10: Insights and Innovations
[10.1] page 106, Exercise 2a
Of the world’s total population of 6.5 billion, 5.8 billion people, or ninety percent don’t have access to
electricity, clean water, or shelter—a simple roof over their heads. The exhibition Design for the Other
90% explores low-cost, innovative solutions to support this majority. Here are three unique ways that we
hope will enable people to live their lives more happily: First is the FLAP (Flexible Light and Power)
Bag, a portable solar bag designed for those people who have no electricity. It includes a solar panel, a
reading light and a mini-USB port for recharging the batteries on small devices. These portable light
bags are made by local workers in Mexico’s Sierra Madre from a material that absorbs the heat from the
sun during the day and gives off light at night. FLAP is a light, personalized bag that can be carried to
provide temporary or permanent access to light and power depending on the situation. It is of great
benefit to local industries and has become an essential tool for leading a happier, more prosperous life in
communities without a reliable power supply. Then we have the LifeStraw, which has become
absolutely essential in parts of the developing world. It’s a personal, mobile water tool designed to turn
any water into drinking water. The straw is effective against diseases such as cholera and typhoid. It
removes particles as small as fifteen microns, enabling people to drink from puddles in the road! The
LifeStraw will be highly beneficial to rural communities, allowing people to access drinking water
without having to walk kilometers to find it. Finally, this bike cell charger works using an innovative
dynamo to convert your cycling into power. The phone is held to the bars of the bike with a big rubber
band. The charger will first be available in Kenya at an affordable price and will go on sale worldwide
by the end of this year. Pedaling at 9.5 kilometers per hour for just ten minutes gives almost half an hour
of talk time or thirty-seven hours of standby. The minimum speed required to charge a phone is 6.5
kilometers per hour, or walking speed, so even a short trip should be enough to keep your cell phone
going for a whole day. This affordable invention will prove a great help to communities without a
reliable supply of electricity and where people exploit cell phones for far more than just chatting.
[10.2] page 109, Exercise 3b
1
My bike was stolen.
2
The thief has been arrested.
3
Thousands of bikes are stolen from the downtown area every year.
4
A bike registration plan is being introduced.
5
Each bike will be given an electronic registration number.
6
That way the stolen bike can be tracked and found.
[10.3] page 110, Exercise 3a
N = Ned B = Bill
N:
How’s the running going, Bill? Still out every morning before breakfast?
B:
Yes, absolutely. But things have changed recently.
N:
What? You’re training for a marathon or something?
B:
No, no… not that. I’ve started running in a different way.
N:
In a different way? I thought there was only one way of running.
B:
You won’t believe this, but I’ve taken up barefoot running… it’s the latest thing!
45
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
N:
B:
N:
B:
N:
N:
B:
N:
B:
N:
B:
N:
B:
N:
B:
N:
Barefoot running? Are you nuts? That must be really hard on your feet!
No, listen, before you start, just let me tell you how I heard about it. I read this book called Born
to Run by this guy named Chris McDougall. His whole argument is that it is healthier to run
barefoot.
Because?
Well, he first read about this runner that won a 160-kilometer race through the mountains
wearing only a pair of sandals, at the age of fifty-five! And McDougall wondered how he could
run like that without being injured.
Well, he must have been pretty unusual, that’s for sure! B: Apparently he was a member of this
tribe, the Tarahumara, who all run like that—barefoot or with sandals. It’s a way of life for them.
They do it in a very natural way.
And so?
Well, that was his inspiration, and the book talks about a whole new way of looking at running.
For example, there are people who say that conventional running shoes give you more support
and protect your feet from impact when you’re running on hard ground. But when you read Born
to Run, you realize it’s just the opposite. In fact, sports shoes cause injuries. They put pressure
on your feet and…
I’m not sure I believe that. It seems more comfortable to me to run in sneakers, there’s no
comparison. To go running barefoot? I can’t imagine the pain!
No, it’s not like that. Well, at first, it’s not easy, but you get used to it after a while.
I’m not sure I could, you know.
Well, if you don’t like that idea, you can try out these sports shoes that make you feel like you’re
barefoot. They’re called FiveFingers and they’re incredible. They have thin, flexible soles that
are really comfortable, and they look amazing, like having gloves on your feet.
Now I’ve heard everything—hi-tech shoes that make you feel like you’re running barefoot. That
just doesn’t make sense.
There are lots of runners who have gotten rid of their shoes, and they’ve gotten rid of their stress
and injuries as well. They’ve changed their habits, and they’re having a lot more fun running.
What does that have to do with stress?
Well, the book says that the way we run is all wrong. First, there are races that require special
preparation and equipment, and there are companies that make a lot of money from running
products. It’s big business. And there are people who run marathons. They are obsessed with
beating their time and keeping up with others. When they don’t reach their goal, they just burn
out or give up. There are people who say you have to suffer, that running has to hurt. I think
that’s all wrong. For the Tarahumara, running isn’t work, it’s an art, and I believe that, too.
Well, good for you, but I think your barefoot running’s crazy, honestly I do.
[10.4] page 111, Exercise 4
1
Only use shoes I recommend.
2
I don’t understand people who run marathons.
3
It was the Tarahumara people who influenced Chris.
4
There are many things you can do barefoot.
5
It’s the FiveFingers shoes that resemble feet.
6
Runners I know don’t like being barefoot.
46
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[10.5] page 113, Exercise 1
Jenny
I’ve done things by the book all my life… I’m a good girl… but something you don’t know about me is
that three weeks into my second year I dropped out of college. One weekend I took the bus home to
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, spent a night at home to think about my future and then went back to
Pennsylvania in my dad’s car. I packed up my dorm room and I left all by myself. The one moment I’ll
never forget was when I was leaving the campus for the final time, after I had packed all my stuff. I sat
in the car and it was like this weight had been lifted off my shoulders, and I felt free. And that was my
epiphany moment. I guess right then I finally felt like an adult. I was independent and I didn’t have to do
what others told me… It was a really tough decision to make because my parents fought me over this.
They were really unhappy about what I did… I know I really disappointed them. But looking back I
know it was the right decision. Everyone goes to college because that’s what you’re meant to do… But
I’ve realized that you can create your own path, not follow the one everyone else follows.
Marco
My parents always wanted me to be a vet, like my father. So I studied veterinary medicine and started
working with my dad. Of course I love animals, but I’ve also seen so many suffer. I suppose that’s one
of the reasons why I didn’t want to continue. I wasn’t very good at dealing with the owners when their
animal had to be put down. One day, I’d had a particularly bad experience, and I decided to stop work
for a few days. I went home and thought about my future. That break gave me some perspective on
things; I realized that being vet wasn’t really for me. But what I could do instead? I thought of the
hobbies I’d had as a child, and I saw the light… I’d always loved taking pictures. So I decided to take a
photography postgraduate course and set myself up as a professional photographer. It’s not always easy
to find interesting work, but I’m doing something that I genuinely want to do. Photography has become
my new career path. My father wasn’t very happy at first, but now he sees it was the right decision.
[10.6] page 113, Exercise 1
1
Suddenly, I saw the light.
2
I had a flash of inspiration.
3
I was at a crossroads and didn’t know which way to go.
4
I had to choose a new direction.
[10.7] page 113, Exercise 2b
1
Suddenly everything clicked, I realized what I wanted to do.
2
Then, at that moment, it dawned on me that that was the right decision.
3
Then I realized, I was at the crossroads; I had to make a choice.
[10.8] page 114, Exercise 2a
1
A:
Hi, can you fix this for me, please?
B:
Let’s see. Yeah, that should be no problem.
A:
How long will it take?
B:
Can you come back in half an hour?
A:
But I don’t have anything on my feet!
B:
Ah, well, take a seat then, I’ll do it as quickly as I can. Mind you, the glue has to dry!
A:
Thanks. I’ll just read this magazine if that’s OK.
47
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
2
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
3
A:
B:
A:
B:
A:
4
A:
B:
5
A:
B:
A:
6
A:
B:
A:
I’d like two copies of this key, please.
I’m sorry, we don’t make copies of security keys.
Oh, no. Do you know of anywhere that does?
Mm… maybe the jeweler’s on the first floor does… You could try there.
OK, thanks. I’ll give it a try.
Hi, I’ve having problems with the gears; they seem to be stuck.
Let’s have a look. Mm… yes… I think we may need to replace the chain here… See.
Oh, dear… how long will it take?
Let me see… if we can get the parts delivered this afternoon… Yes, that’s no problem. We can
have it for you by tomorrow morning. Is that OK?
Yeah, that’ll be fine. Thanks!
Is there anywhere near here where I can get my bike fixed?
Erm… I’m not sure… let’s see… Oh, yes, there’s a new bike shop on West Street across from
the station. I think they do repairs.
Do you know where I can get a key made?
Yes, there’s a place next to the supermarket over there. See? At the end of the street?
Thanks!
Oh, no! The heel’s come off my shoe! I really need to get that fixed!
There’s a shoe hospital on the ground floor—you can get it fixed there.
That’s great. Thanks!
[10.9] page 114, Saying thanks
That’s great. Thanks!
OK, thanks. I’ll give that a try.
Yeah, that’ll be fine, thanks!
[10.10] page 115, Exercise 3a
Well now you know a little bit about the LifeStraw and why it’s so incredible, we’re going to see how it
works. As you might remember, a LifeStraw is a tube of durable plastic about twenty-five centimeters
long. It has string attached to it, so you can wear it around your neck. To use it, you simply stick the
LifeStraw directly into the water and drink as you would from any normal straw. But what happens
when you take that drink? Well, there are four stages as you can see from the diagram. First, the water
passes through a filter and the big pieces of dirt and sediment are removed. The holes in the filter are
about 100 microns in diameter. Next, the water passes through another filter, this time the holes are
much smaller, only 15 microns in diameter. That’s really small, each hole is just the tenth of the size of a
human hair. This catches the bacteria that can spread diseases. In the next stage, the water is sent
through a chamber of beads that are covered with iodine. Parasites and over 99% of bacteria and virus
are killed by the iodine. Finally, the water passes through a chamber of carbon filter. This improves the
taste and smell of the water and should kill any remaining parasites.
48
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 11: A Sense of Identity
[11.1] page 119, Exercise 1
1
Tonight, I’d prefer to eat out.
2
If I could go on vacation now, I’d go to Brazil.
3
It’d be nice if you said yes.
4
I’d never take that risk.
5
I wouldn’t like to say.
[11.2] page 119, Exercise 1
1
People criticize them a lot, but I don’t mind my son playing video games. I actually think it can be very
creative. If I understood what it was about, I’d be really interested in all of that stuff, science fiction and
all that.
2
If I could understand the rules, maybe I’d like them, but it’s so weird for me, you know, this pretending
to be someone else, losing yourself in these fantasy worlds. I’m sure it’s not healthy for the kids.
3
My kids love it; they’re on the Xbox and the Wii the whole time. Video games have a bad reputation,
but I think you can learn a lot from them, and the kids make friends as well through this. Of course if I
didn’t have children, I wouldn’t understand a thing.
4
Some of these games are very violent, these video games. That’s what I don’t like about them, and
they’re so addictive. If I had the chance, I’d throw them away, I really would, but my kids would
probably kill me.
[11.3] page 120, Exercise 3
I = Interviewer N = Nancy
I:
There is always something that you dislike about yourself— everybody gets frustrated
sometimes with an aspect of themselves. Well, Nancy Toteva is here to reveal some research
done on the subject. Nancy, you asked a number of different people what they disliked most
about themselves. What kind of results did you get?
N:
First of all, what surprised us was that being distracted or absentminded was number one on the
list, and this didn’t just apply to older people, it affected all age groups. This could be explained
by the use of computers these days and cell devices.
I:
I guess related to that is being indecisive, which is second on the list, right?
N:
Yes, but I’m not sure there’s a connection. I’m not sure being indecisive is a new thing. I don’t
think technology makes us more indecisive, nor does distraction. Everybody agonizes over these
things; it’s often the little decisions that are annoying, you know, what to have to drink or which
T-shirt to wear. People said that they found that kind of indecision really annoying.
I:
I know what you mean. I love it when other people make decisions for me! So, what’s next?
What’s in third place?
49
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
N:
I:
N:
I:
Well, according to our survey, being shy is third on the list. A lot of people wish they weren’t so
shy, especially in social situations. Interestingly, a lot of people who complain about being shy
say they find it easier to socialize online, you know. They say they can be more extroverted
online, but they’re still shy face-to-face. I wonder if this particular result is because we did the
survey in Northern Europe. People say that shyness is a characteristic of people here, that they
need to socialize more, be more extroverted.
OK, so what’s the last one?
Well, this is slightly different because it’s a physical thing. Some people are just clumsy, aren’t
they? They spill things, they knock things over, you know, they’re not coordinated, especially
when they’re feeling nervous.
I know exactly what you mean!
[11.4] page 121, Exercise 3b
I wish I had three-day weekends.
I wish I had a nap at noon.
I wish I had more time to play.
I wish I had greener grass.
I wish I had whiter teeth.
I wish I had summer all year around.
I wish I had six-pack abs.
I wish I had a magic wand
to make all my wishes come true.
[11.5] page 123, Exercise 1
Rashid
How will I be using English in the future? Well, I hope to have a successful career in which English
plays a part, sure. Maybe in some big global organization where I have to give presentations or
something like that. But I don’t see my relationship with English stopping there. I like the idea of
meeting new people through work, people from other cultures. That’s very attractive for me—
socializing and getting to know other cultures. I can see myself having trouble at first because I’m not a
very confident speaker. Sometimes I get very nervous, but I guess people will help me out. What else?
Well, traveling for work really appeals to me, sure, and English can allow me to do that. I can imagine
myself in airports, speaking in English, that kind of thing… chatting with new friends in bars and
restaurants, having fun.
Louise
How will I be using English in the future? Well, to start with, I’d like to live in an English-speaking
country, to feel part of a community, to talk to the neighbors, you know… to get to know another way of
life through the language. That would be important to me. Some things will be easy to achieve, I
suppose, the day-to-day stuff like asking directions or going shopping, but I’d like to think that I could
talk about more profound things as well. I mean, it’d be great to have a conversation about politics
sometime. I just don’t really know how achievable that is. It might never happen, but I can still imagine
it! Well, anyway, English is essentially a very useful language. I can see it helping me out in lots of
tricky situations in the world because it’s the world’s common language.
50
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[11.6] page 124, Exercise 3
1
A:
Have you thought about just focusing on one thing at a time? Turn off the computer, or
disconnect your e-mail or the Internet so that you won’t be tempted to get distracted by other
things.
B:
That’s a good idea. Thanks a lot!
2
A:
In your situation, I’d take regular breaks, do something really different just to clear your head
and then go back to the work that you have to do.
B:
That doesn’t normally work for me.
A:
Well, you could always set yourself a schedule. Tell yourself you’re going to get this done by a
specific time. Set yourself a goal!
B:
OK, I’ll try that.
A:
Let me know!
3
A:
If that were me, I’d go somewhere else or I’d wear headphones. That usually helps my
concentration because it shuts out all the noise. If I had a mental block, that’s what I’d do, for
sure. You ought to try it.
B:
You know, I’d prefer not to… I don’t know why!
A:
Well, then get out of the house, do something different.
B:
Yes, that could work, thanks!
[11.7] page 124, Intonation
1
That’s a good idea.
2
That doesn’t normally work for me.
3
OK, I’ll try that.
4
You know, I’d prefer not to.
5
Yes, that could work, thanks.
[11.8] page 125, Exercise 2b
1
Well, thank you, everybody, for coming. I’m very nervous, but I’d just like to say thanks again.
It’s great to be here. My name is Ralph Sharma, I’m an expert in this field so I think this talk will
be really useful for you. Now, let’s get started, shall we?
2
A:
Good morning, pleased to meet you, Jonathan, come in.
B:
Hello there, nice to be here. Really nice office you have.
A:
Yes, it has a wonderful view. Now, tell me why are you interested in this position?
B:
Mm… I wouldn’t mind an office like this! Well, to answer your question, I’ve always wanted to
work with people like you. I think I have the experience to do it as well.
3
A:
Good-bye. It was nice to meet you. We’ll be in touch by e-mail.
B:
Yes, of course. Oh, I forgot—here, take my card. I’m trying to get rid of them… ha, ha!
A:
Oh, thank you. I gave you mine earlier, I believe.
B:
Yes, that’s right.
51
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
A:
B:
Well, you should be hearing from us within a week.
Well, I hope to get your call, sure. Stay in touch, as they say!
[11.9] page 125, Exercise 4
1
Well, thank you, everybody, for coming. I’d like to thank Logic Systems for inviting me to speak
to you all today. My name’s Ralph Sharma, and I’m going to speak about the field of industrial
design. I’d like to start by explaining the outline of my talk.
2
A:
Good morning, pleased to meet you, Jonathan, come in.
B:
Pleased to meet you, too. Thank you for giving me this opportunity.
A:
Now, tell me why are you interested in this position?
B:
Well, I feel I’m well qualified for the position because of my previous work experience… as you
can probably see from my CV.
A:
Yes, I was going to ask you about that. Are you experienced at organizing teams?
3
A:
Good-bye. It was nice to meet you. We’ll be in touch by e-mail.
B:
Yes, likewise. I look forward to hearing from you when it’s convenient.
A:
That’s great. You should hear from us within a week.
B:
Excellent, thanks very much. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any additional
information.
52
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Unit 12: Memories
[12.1] page 127, Exercise 2a
1
(This morning) I forgot to buy milk yesterday. My roommate had asked me to buy some milk on the
way home from work, but I forgot. So we had no milk for our cereal at breakfast. He wasn’t very
pleased!
2
(Yesterday) My friend had asked me to lend him a book for our course. He even called me up to remind
me to bring it with me—and I still forgot! I have such a bad memory! I felt really bad. But I did
remember to give it to him today!
3
(Last week) I felt awful about it. I completely forgot Sunday was Mother’s Day. It wasn’t until the day
after that I remembered. I’m usually good at remembering things like that. And the worst thing was I
usually call my mom on Sundays, but last Sunday, what with one thing and another, I just didn’t
remember to call. I sent her a late card, but it isn’t the same. I’ll definitely remember next year! I’ve set
my phone to remind me!
[12.2] page 127, Exercise 5
1 Ana
Yes, I think I usually do. I mean, for day-to-day things, you know, dates and appointments and things
like that. But for some reason I have a really bad memory for names! You know, I can clearly remember
where and when I met somebody, but I just can’t remember their names! It can be embarrassing
sometimes. And when it comes to distant memories, you know, childhood memories and things like that,
they become really vague. It’s awful, I can hardly remember anything!
2 Pete
Yes, I always forget where I put my keys! It really annoys my wife. I try to put them back in the same
place each time, but I just don’t remember! I spend hours looking for them every day! I forget other
things, too, like umbrellas, sunglasses. But when it comes to numbers and dates and things like that, it’s
completely different. I don’t know why, I think it’s because I have a photographic memory. I found it
really easy to memorize things at school. It really helped me on my exams!
3 Eli
I usually ask someone else to remind me. It really seems to help, even if they don’t remember to remind
me. It doesn’t seem to matter. The act of telling them seems to be enough. I use my cell phone for the
same thing—to remind me of important meetings, that kind of thing—but of course, the problem is
trying to remember to add the date to the phone! Sometimes I think I have a really bad short-term
memory!
[12.3] page 129, Exercise 1a
If he’d been there, he’d’ve done the same thing.
[12.4] page 130, Exercise 2
1
53
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
I love the smell of fresh coffee. It really takes me back. It reminds me of the time when I lived in an
apartment over a café. I always woke up to the smell of coffee. It used to fill the apartment in the
morning. The café had only just opened when I moved in, and it was really popular. I only lived there
for six months, and ever since I’ve always associated the smell of coffee with the clatter of cups and the
chatter of voices.
2
I grew up in the Czech Republic. I’ll never forget the first time I saw the ocean. I was nineteen. I had
never seen the ocean before. I had just started working for a family, taking care of their three kids. They
had planned a vacation in Spain, and they took me with them. Seeing the ocean for the first time was
incredible! It was such an amazing sight. So big, so open. I just stood there and looked at it, trying to
take it all in. And once I actually got in the water, they just couldn’t tear me away! I loved the waves,
the sound they made on the sand. We could hear them from our hotel room. The kids slept so well; they
were so tired. It made my job really easy, as they were lulled to sleep by the waves.
3
I love this photo. We took it on vacation last year in Buenos Aires. It brings back great memories of our
trip; this was one of the highlights. We’d just been to visit the antique market in San Telmo—It’s great.
It’s held once a week on Sunday; it’s a great place to just soak up the atmosphere. Anyway, we were just
sitting down for coffee when this couple started dancing in the square in front of us. It was amazing…
they were so good. I’ve seen the tango so many times in dance halls and theaters, but nothing beats
seeing it live on the streets of downtown BA. Whenever I look at this photo, the scene just comes
flooding back, and I can hear the music playing in my mind.
[12.5] page 130, Exercise 1b
1
I love the smell of fresh coffee. It really takes me back.
2
I had just started working for a family, taking care of their three kids.
3
I just stood there and looked at the ocean, trying to take it all in.
4
Once I actually got in the water, they just couldn’t tear me away!
5
I love this photo. It brings back great memories of our trip.
6
It’s a great place to just soak up the atmosphere.
[12.6] page 133, Exercise 6a
1
I keep a vocabulary notebook. I write down all the new words we learn in class in it. I use an address
book so I can write them under the correct letter. I try and write an example sentence and a definition
each time. I also translate them using my cell phone. It’s great, like having my own personal dictionary!
I take it with me everywhere, and when I have five minutes to spare, I take it out and try and learn four
or five new words each time.
2
I collect new words on cards. I put the word on one side and a definition or translation on the other. I
carry them around in my pocket. I keep the words I don’t know in my left pocket. As I learn them I
move them to my right pocket. When I think I know them really well, I take them out and put some new
ones in. I pick the words up from songs and video clips and short texts I read online.
3
I’m not very good at studying vocabulary. I take notes, but then I never look at them! But I do a lot of
reading, as much as I can really—comics, books, articles. I find that if you keep reading, the same words
54
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
come up again and again. I know it’s a lazy way to learn! Sometimes I try and write short summaries of
what I’ve read, and then I try to use the new words I’ve found. Or sometimes I just practice them in my
head, you know, kind of talking to myself in English. Mm… does that sound a little crazy?
[12.7] page 134, Exercise 2a
1
A:
Oh, no! I’m so sorry! That was so clumsy…
B:
Don’t worry, I’ll get a cloth.
A:
No, no, I’ll get one… Oh, no, on the carpet as well… I hope we can get it out.
B:
Look, here you are, try with this…
A:
I really am very sorry.
B:
Stop apologizing! It really doesn’t matter! Honestly!
2
C:
Hi? Can I come in? I’m really sorry about last night. I shouldn’t have gotten angry like that. I
was really out of line. Can I please come in? I just want to say sorry.
D:
OK, come in… Those flowers look like they need some water.
C:
Here you are. I really am very sorry. There was no excuse.
D:
It’s OK. Just don’t let it happen again! Here, give me those flowers.
C:
Nice, aren’t they?
D:
Yeah, not bad.
3
E:
Oh, no! What have you done? My clean sheets!
F:
I’m sorry, Mom.
E:
Well, sorry’s just not good enough. Now I’m going to have to wash them all over again!
F:
I’m really sorry. I promise it won’t happen again!
E:
Yeah… until the next time! Well, you can help me take them down and put them back in the
washing machine!
F:
Yes, Mom.
E:
And no TV for you this afternoon!
4
G:
So, can I please have your assignments? Thank you.
H:
I’m sorry, I forgot.
G:
What do you mean you forgot? Did you forget to do it, or did you forget to bring it, or did the
dog eat it?
H:
No, I just forgot to do it. Sorry.
G:
Well, you could at least offer me a good excuse!
H:
I don’t suppose there is one really. I’m sorry, I’ll do it for the next class.
G:
Well, I suppose that’ll have to do! And you, Tom?
[12.8] page 134
Sorry?
Sorry.
Sorry.
55
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
[12.9] page 134, Exercise 6a
1
We regret to announce that tonight’s performance has been canceled due to adverse weather conditions.
All tickets will be refunded at the ticket office.
2
All trains traveling south from New York will be delayed due to a temporary problem with the signaling
system. We apologize for any inconvenience.
3
We’re afraid we can’t answer the phone at the moment. Please leave a message and we’ll get back to
you as soon as we can.
56
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
Review D
[R21] page 136, Exercise 1b
This invention is of great benefit to people who live a long way from each other. It enables people to
communicate with each other cheaply, and it’s a great help to people who live alone.
[R22] page 136, Exercise 4a
1
Suddenly I saw the light; I knew I had to change jobs.
2
Then it just clicked; I realized I had to move away from this town and start afresh.
3
I was at a crossroads; I could go one way or the other… eventually I decided to stay with my
husband.
4
Then I had a flash of inspiration; the way forward was to open my own business.
[R23] page 136, Exercise 1a
1
A:
Excuse me. I need to get my driver’s license renewed.
B:
Just complete that form over there, please. It will be sent to your address within ten days.
2
C:
Can you get this suit cleaned by the end of the day?
D:
Let’s see… what time is it now?
C:
Ten o’clock.
D:
OK. We can get it done by seven tonight. Is that OK?
C:
Yes, that’s great, thanks…
[R24] page 137, Exercise 1b
1
She’s a big fan of the Yankees; she supports them even when they lose.
2
She’s a real animal lover; she really cares for them.
3
He’s a natural performer; he likes an audience and he was born to entertain.
4
She’s kind of a loner; she likes to escape and get away from other people.
[R25] page 137, Exercise 1a
A:
That’s it! I’ve had enough. I can’t take this anymore!
B:
What’s up?
A:
It’s my boss. She’s just sent me a text message. She wants me to go into the office tomorrow
morning.
B:
Tomorrow morning? But it’s Sunday!
A:
Don’t remind me!
B:
Well, if I were you, I’d just say no.
A:
I can’t do that; I’ll lose my job!
B:
You’d have to give her a good excuse of course. You could always tell her it’s your mother’s
birthday or something…
A:
No, that won’t work, she knows my mother!
57
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
B:
A:
B:
A:
Well, I really think you should say no… You can’t let her treat you like that. Have you thought
about looking for a new job? It might be time, you know.
Well, yes, I have actually, but I don’t want to leave this one until I do. I need my boss to give me
a good reference.
Well then, it looks like you’re gonna have to work tomorrow!
Yup… looks like it!
[R26] page 138, Exercise 3b
1
Like most people, I have a good short-term memory.
2
I have a very vivid memory of my first few years, it’s all very detailed.
3
An early memory is going to the fair with my parents and riding on a merry-go-round.
4
I have a real photographic memory, the image stays in my mind.
5
I think it’s true that sometimes people have a selective memory.
[R27] page 138, Exercise 2b
1
I’ve always wanted to fly a plane.
2
Yesterday, Carlos told me that he had just gotten married.
3
I had just gotten home when the telephone rang.
4
I had never been interested in English until recently.
5
I have been working full time for five years.
6
My favorite author’s latest book was published last week.
7
The football game is going to be shown live on TV tonight.
[R28] page 138, Exercise 1a
1
A:
I’m really sorry I forgot your birthday…
B:
Don’t worry… I don’t celebrate it anymore.
A:
Yeah, but, you know, it’s not like me… and I feel bad about it.
2
C:
I really am sorry that I haven’t had time to do that work you asked me for… I’ve just…
D:
Well, that’s not good enough. I need it by the end of the day. You’ll need to work after hours,
OK?
3
E:
I’m so sorry, I lost your keys. I don’t know how it happened.
F:
Oh, no…
E:
Do you have another set?
F:
Well, I do actually… Just don’t let it happen again, OK? This is the last spare set.
[R29] page 139, Exercise 1b
1
Well, I had an interview the other day, and after that I realized that I had to prioritize different things in
my English studies. I want to be a doctor and study in the U.S. Anyway, the interview didn’t go very
well. I was asked lots of different questions, and sometimes I didn't understand them the first time. So I
think I will benefit from more listening practice. I wish I had done some of that before the interview; it
was embarrassing to ask them to repeat. Also, the man who interviewed me spoke very formally. That
58
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012
wouldn’t have been a problem if I had been familiar with that kind of language, but I wasn’t. So, I think
I would find learning more formal expressions very useful as well. The good thing was that the
interviewer understood me, and the person who I spoke to at the end said I sounded very American.
2
The thing which I still find really… erm, difficult is… is sounding fluent. I still speak in short sentences.
I have to think about… about what I want…. what I’m going to say next. I really need to work on that. If
I had… if I had more time, I could do a language exchange. That’s where I could get some more erm…
some more practice. I have been told that just chatting a little bit… chatting a little bit everyday…
should help. I think that would be worth doing. I don’t really need English for work. And I don't want to
sound like a native speaker who says everything erm… you know… perfectly. I just want to be… erm
to sound like myself, with erm… the same confidence, the same confidence I have in my mother tongue.
I wish teachers had told me that when I was studying. Next week, I’m seeing an Australian erm…
friend who’s going to teach me all the… erm… slang, yeah, slang and street language from Australia.
That’ll be great!
59
American Big Picture Intermediate Transcripts
© RICHMOND 2012