English as a Second Language in Context

Learning the finer points of the English language, with all its idiomatic expressions, multiple meanings, and verb tenses can be challenging.
Emily Rose and Valerie would like to share their dialogues with you as they learn to master the language.

Dialogues of Emily Rose and Valerie:

Dialogue Number 1 with Emily Rose and Valerie, starring Idioms

EmilyRose: Hi, Valerie!!! How are your end-of- term assignments shaping up?

Valerie: In a nutshell, all right. However, in a couple of courses, I am not out of the woods yet. A few stumbling blocks remain.
Emily Rose: I get the message. In my grammar course, I am finally beginning to see the light. I am glad I got those computer assignments finished early. I guess it is the case of the early bird catching the worm. With the preliminary work completed, I have time to concentrate on other courses.

Valerie: It's the time of year when I feel that I am running around like a chicken with its head cut off. Assignments, presentations, Christmas preparations!!!!!!!! And you know how I get goose bumps and lily-livered when I have to present in class??

Emily Rose: Ya?

Valerie: Well, I decided to stop being a worrywart and start from scratch. When my name was called to present, I strode confidently to the front of the room. I pretended everyone in the room was naked. Then, I started the ball rolling, moved into top gear, and kept the show on the road. I felt like a million dollars.

Emily Rose: That's great, Valerie. You are really on top of things. Well done!!