●Word power

Step 1: Brainstorming

Think about the following topics:

Up to now we've learned English for several years. Do you agree there are some differences between American English and British English?

In which aspects do these differences exist, pronunciation, spelling, grammar or different expressions?

List some differences that you already know.

Differences Examples pronunciation spelling grammar vocabulary Step 2: Vocabulary learning

1. Focus on the examples listed in your books and distinguish these differences first.

2. Compare what you already know with these examples listed and keep them in mind.

3. Summarize all the differences between American English and British English.

4. Focus on the exercise and finish it individually first and then conduct a feedback activity. Then practise the dialogue with your partners.

Answers

(1) is that (2) center (3) suit (4) toilet

(5) programme (6) colour (7) She's just gone home. (8) on

5. Discuss the following questions:

As we all know, the accents in American English and British English are partly different. Which do you prefer, American English or British English? Do you think it helpful for you to be aware of these differences?

6. Read the article in Part A in Reading on page 90 in Workbook, so that yoou can learn more about this topic. Guess the meanings of some words from the context of the article, such as major, charming, episode, nature, naughty, caring, etc.

Answers

Part A (page 90)

1. Both the mother and father worked. Many parents who watched the programme also had the same difficult decisions to make about their families and they worried about their children's future.