Lesson 2A – Reading and Vocabulary
When my parents planned a family trip this summer, my first thought was that I should stay home and help my uncle with his business. Then I thought again, ‘I’ll have left home for university in September, and I won’t see my family as often after that. A holiday will be a great opportunity to spend quality time together.’
Main Idea: The blogger was unsure at first but then realized the holiday was a good chance to spend time with family.
So, how was it? Well, Jordan is an amazing country and the holiday was surprisingly fun. We all had a great time exploring a new place together and it turned out to be a memorable experience – especially
the weather! It was so hot we were melting by midday, so we made good use of the pool! What made it a success? Read on for my three golden rules …
Main Idea: The family holiday in Jordan was fun and memorable, despite the hot weather.
As you read this, your parents are probably searching online for tips on ‘how to survive a holiday with teenagers’. Having a positive attitude can help things go smoothly for everyone. Try to appreciate simple pleasures such as sun, sea and a lack of homework. Show an interest in your parents’ life by asking them questions like ‘What were family holidays like when you were teenagers?’ They’ll appreciate this, and you might uncover some great stories about interesting things your mum and dad did with their parents.
Main Idea: Having a positive attitude helps the family holiday be more enjoyable. | الفكرة الرئيسية: التمتع بموقف إيجابي يجعل العطلة العائلية أكثر متعة.
Things might not go to plan, but try to see the funny side. In Jordan, we decided to go off the beaten track and visit the ruins of Petra. We hired a car, planned the route, hit the road and got lost almost immediately. Trying out Arabic using his translation app, my dad asked a local man the way. Whatever my dad said, the man thought it was hilarious. We turned back and eventually found the ancient site, but the laughing Bedouin man is what we’ll really remember from that day.
Main Idea: Unexpected problems can be fun and memorable if you keep a good sense of humour. |
Your parents may well need a break more than you do, so let them have it. They work really hard and this is their opportunity for some much-deserved downtime. Let them have a lie-in while you help out with younger siblings, or be kind and do the shopping for them. Remember your headphones and a good book. There will be times when you need some peace and quiet too.