Reading Passage

Public Transportation

Public transportation plays an important role in modern cities. Buses, trains, and subways help millions of people travel every day. They are often cheaper and more environmentally friendly than private cars.

One major advantage of public transportation is that it reduces traffic.
When more people use buses or trains, there are fewer cars on the road. This helps decrease air pollution and saves time during busy hours.

However, public transportation also has some disadvantages. It can be crowded, especially during peak times. In addition, delays and limited schedules can cause problems for passengers who need to arrive on time.

Despite these challenges, many cities are improving their transportation systems by adding more routes and modern vehicles. This makes public transport a better choice for the future.

Nature & Animal Idioms

1- Let the cat out of the bag – reveal a secret
Example: He let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.

2- Kill two birds with one stone – achieve two things at once
Example: I killed two birds with one stone by studying while traveling.

3- A fish out of water – feel uncomfortable in a situation
Example: I felt like a fish out of water at the new school.

4- The lion’s share – the largest part
Example: He took the lion’s share of the money.

5- Cry wolf – give a false alarm
Example: If you keep crying wolf, no one will believe you.

6- Hold your horses – wait or be patient
Example: Hold your horses! We’re not ready yet.

7- Straight from the horse’s mouth – from a reliable source
Example: I heard the news straight from the horse’s mouth.

8- A snake in the grass – a hidden enemy
Example: He seemed friendly, but he was a snake in the grass.

9- Eagle eye – very sharp vision or attention
Example: The teacher has an eagle eye for mistakes.

10- Busy as a bee – very busy
Example: She is as busy as a bee preparing for the event.

Reading Passage

The Role of Technology in Daily Life

Technology has become an important part of daily life. People use smartphones, computers, and the internet for communication, work, and entertainment. These tools make life easier and faster in many ways.

One of the main benefits of technology is communication. People can send messages, make video calls, and share information instantly, even if they are far away. Technology also helps students learn through online resources and educational apps.

However, technology also has some negative effects. Spending too much time on devices can reduce physical activity and affect health. In addition, some people become too dependent on technology and find it difficult to live without it.

In conclusion, technology plays a major role in modern life. While it offers many benefits, people should use it wisely and maintain a healthy balance.

Unit 6 — At Work: Job Satisfaction

1– job satisfaction (noun) – a feeling that your job is worth doing and fulfils you
Example: Job satisfaction is more important to me than a high salary.

2– workplace (noun) – the place where you work
Example: A pleasant workplace improves productivity.

3– run-of-the-mill (adjective) – ordinary, not special or exciting
Example: Even a run-of-the-mill job can be satisfying.

4– put up with (phrasal verb) – tolerate something unpleasant
Example: Some people put up with stress for financial reward.

5– short-term (adjective) – immediate; opposite of long-term
Example: He accepted the job for short-term financial gain.

6– financial reward (noun phrase) – money gained
Example: She works hard for financial reward.

7– staff morale (noun) – amount of confidence felt by a group
Example: Staff morale was low after the pay freeze.

8– freeze (on pay rises) (noun) – stopping salary increases
Example: The company announced a freeze on pay rises.

9– teamwork (noun) – working together for a common purpose
Example: Good teamwork helps solve problems quickly.

10– job stability (noun) – a job that is not likely to change
Example: Many people prefer job stability over excitement.

11– fast-moving (adjective) – developing or changing very quickly
Example: She works in the fast-moving tech industry.

12– work-life balance (noun) – time spent working compared to time for personal life
Example: He left his job to improve his work-life balance.

13– dynamic (adjective) – continuously developing and energetic
Example: It’s a dynamic company with big plans.

14– challenging (adjective) – testing your ability
Example: The job is challenging but rewarding.

15– demotivated (adjective) – feeling less enthusiastic about work
Example: Employees felt demotivated after the changes.

16– seek a career in (verb phrase) – look to work in (consider or plan)
Example: She is seeking a career in marketing.

17– maternity leave (noun) – time away from work for a mother after having a baby
Example: She is on maternity leave for six months.

18– paternity leave (noun) – time away from work for a father after a baby is born
Example: He took two weeks of paternity leave.

19– adoption leave (noun) – time off work after adopting a child
Example: They were entitled to adoption leave.

20– perks / benefits (noun) – extra things apart from salary
Example: Company perks include a car and health insurance.

21– holiday entitlement (noun) – number of paid holiday days you have the right to take
Example: My holiday entitlement is four weeks per year.

22– salary increments (noun) – increases/rises in salary
Example: Employees receive regular salary increments.

23– performance-related pay (noun phrase) – pay rises depending on how well you do your job
Example: The company offers performance-related pay.

24– annual bonus (noun) – extra money paid once a year based on performance
Example: Staff receive an annual bonus in December.

25– overworked and underpaid (expression) – working too much and not paid enough
Example: Many nurses feel overworked and underpaid.