A: You’re new here, right? B: Yes, I am new

Task 1.

A: You’re new here, right?

B: Yes, I am new.

A: Is this your first semester?

B: I just transferred from another university.

A: What university did you transfer from?

B: I came here from Bukhara state university.

A: Do you like it here so far?

B: I am really enjoying it here so far.

A: Which is better, here or Bukhara state university?

B: I think Bukhara state university is a lot better than here.

A: Why didn’t you just stay at Bukhara state university?

B: I graduated, and now want to get a BA.

Task 2.

As an online student at Achieve Virtual, communication is a bit different than in a face-to-face setting.  We pride ourselves in providing several opportunities for social interactions, but the difference is that most communication is via written text in an online environment.  Because this means you are missing body language cues and immediate feedback from your “listener,” it is very important to understand some common rules for good online etiquette.  This ensures that the message you intend to convey is received correctly.

Be respectful. While it is easier to say hurtful or disrespectful things without standing face-to-face with someone, it is important to remember that your classmates and teachers are real people who are affected by the words you say and write.  It is essential to keep in mind the feelings and opinions of others, even if they differ from your own.  If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, don’t say it online either.

Be aware of strong language, all caps, and exclamation points. It is easy for written text to be misread and misunderstood.  Have you ever sent a text message with good intent but your recipient thought you were being rude? If so, then you’ve experienced this firsthand.  By being cognizant of strong language, you can identify potential confusions before sending messages.  Tip: Read everything out loud before you send it.

Be careful with humor and sarcasm. Certainly you shouldn’t avoid being funny. We love to see your personality shine through in online classes.  Many of our teachers are exceptionally funny too.  But like mentioned in Rule #2, make sure that it is clear you are being funny and not being rude. Emoticons and smileys can be helpful when conveying humor or sarcasm so that it is read correctly. Just remember to keep the smiley faces away from academic papers. 😉

Yes, grammar and spelling matter. While texting, textspeak can b gr8 4 ur friends.  In an educational setting (even online) however, keep it formal.  Your written communication should be professional and reflect proper writing style.  Save written shortcuts and less than stellar grammar for Snapchat if you must, but follow grammar rules for school.

Cite your sources. Whenever you are sharing an idea that originated from someone else (even if it is not word for word), it is good practice to cite that source.  This applies to discussion forums too.  If you read a great thought in your text, share it, but be sure you let your audience know where you saw it first.

Don’t post or share (even privately) inappropriate material. Enough said there. Nothing is truly private online.

Be forgiving. Remember that not everyone will know these rules before posting. Try to be understanding of others when they struggle with written communication.  It is very different than simply talking to a person face-to-face.

Task 3.1

Mark: Hi Peter! How are you doing these days?

Peter: Oh, Hi Mark. I’m not doing very well, actually.

Mark: I’m sorry to hear that. What seems to be the problem?

Peter: ... you know I’ve been looking for work. I can’t seem to find a job.

Mark: That’s too bad. Why did you leave your last job?

Peter: Well, my boss treated me badly, and I didn’t like my chances of advancing in the company.

Mark: That makes sense. A job without opportunities AND a difficult boss isn’t very attractive.

Peter: Exactly! So, anyway, I decided to quit and find a new job. I sent out my resume to more than twenty companies. Unfortunately, I’ve only had two interviews so far.

Mark: Have you tried looking online for a job?

Peter: Yes, but so many of the jobs require moving to another city. I don’t want to do that.

Mark: I can understand that. How about going to some of those networking groups?

Peter: I haven’t tried those. What are they?

Mark: They’re groups of people who are also looking for work. They help each other discover new opportunities.

Peter: That sounds great. I’ll definitely try some of those.

Mark: I’m glad to hear that. So, what are you doing here?

Peter: Oh, I’m shopping for a new suit. I want to make the best impression possible at my job interviews!

Task 3.2

A: Could you help me figure out how to look for a job?

B: We have lots of options, what type of job do you need?

A: I want to work in an office.

B: Do you want to work part-time or full-time?

A: I want to work full-time.

B: We have binders with local job listings or you can make use of the computers. OK?

A: I am confused a bit but I am sure that I can figure it out.

B: If you make an appointment with a job counselor, they can also provide you with a lot of information. Do you want to see a counselor?

A: No, I don’t think I need to do that.

B: Well, you know that this job center is here for your use, so help yourself. Good luck!

Task 3.3

A: Could you help me try and figure out how to get ready for my job interview?

B: The most important thing to do is to make sure you know the company and what services or products it provides. Do you know all about them?

A: Yes, I pretty much understand the company.

B: Well, after you’ve done your research, you have to decide whether the company is casual or formal. Have you decided what they are yet?

A: Yes, I’ve been observing them.

B: When you are choosing what to wear, keep all of that in mind. Have you chosen what to wear?

A: I already have something to wear.

B: I would always be ready to go shopping with you! Should we talk about other basics?

A: I am ready to think of other things.

B: You need to make sure you arrive on time, smile, be pleasant and friendly, look the person in the eye and answer all questions to the best of your ability. You’ll do great!

Task 4.1

A: How are you?

B: I’m well. Thank you for asking.

A: What can I do for you?

B: I need to open a bank account.

A: What kind of account?

B: I just need a checking account.

A: You can open a savings account, too.

B: All right. Open both.

A: You need to deposit at least $50 into both accounts.

B: I will be depositing $300 today.

A: I will set your accounts up right now.

B: Would you please put $150 in both accounts?

Task4.2

A: How are you?

B: I’m fabulous. 

A: What can I help you with?

B: I need to make a withdrawal.

A: How much are you withdrawing today?

B: I need $300.

A: What account would you like to take this money from?

B: Take it from my checking account.

A: Here’s your $300.

B: Thank you so much.

A: Will you be needing anything else?

B: That’s it for today.

Task 4.3

A: How’s everything with you today?

B: I’m fine. Thank you.

A: What can I do for you?

B: I need to transfer money.

A: Do you know which account you want to take the money from?

B: From my savings account.

A: Where are you transferring the money to?

B: I would like it transferred to my checking account.

A: How much?

B: I want to transfer $200.

A: Will that be all?

B: Yes. That will be all.