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"go out on a limb" = do something risky

"I went out on a limb to find him a job, but he didn't thank me."

"bark up the wrong tree" = make the wrong decision or get the wrong idea

"Listen. You're barking up the wrong tree. I didn't take your cell phone. It's a lie."

More of Randall's Favorite Learning Resources

[ Quiz Script ]

Landscaping Secrets
1. Pre-Listening Exercises
2. Listening Exercises
3. Vocabulary
4. Post-Listening Exercises
5. Online Investigations

Level:Topic: Type:Speakers:Length:
Difficultlandscapingconversationtwo men01:14

1. Pre-Listening Exercises [Top]
What types of landscaping do people use around their homes (or businesses) in your country? What rules or regulations are in place to protect homeowners in particular neighborhoods? What kinds of problems can arise when there are disagreements between neighbors on their yards?

HELPFUL TIP: Planting flowers can be a great way of landscaping a yard, but not all plants grow well together. Furthermore, certain flowers can cause allergies or take over other parts of your garden. Talk with a local nursery for advice.


II. Listening Exercises [Top]

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1. What is one problem with the man's trees?
A. The branches are very old and long.
B. The trees dump too many leaves into the yard.
C. The dogs are scared of them during storms.

2. The tree was planted ______________ years ago.
A. 20
B. 23
C. 25

3. What happens to the dog when he eats the walnuts?
A. He pukes all over the place.
B. He chokes on them and can`t breathe.
C. He suffers from intestinal problems.

4. Why is the neighbor able to cut the other man's trees?
A. Some of the branches cross over into the neighbor's yard.
B. The trees are becoming a real fire danger.
C. He has a city permit to cut and remove the trees.

5. What do you think happens at the end of the conversation?
A. The men get together for a barbecue.
B. The neighbors get into a big fight.
C. The men become friends and plant trees.

Score =
Correct answers:

Listen to the conversation again as you read the Quiz Script.

3. Vocabulary Activities [Top]

4. Post-Listening Exercises [Top]
What are common problems that could happen between neighbors? What are the best ways to resolve such issues?

Caring for a yard around a house is more than just throwing some grass and flower seeds on the ground and hoping that things will grow well. Instead, careful planning is the key. Search the Internet and find 10 money-saving landscaping tips that can beautify any area. Then, share your findings with a partner.


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