DIRECTIONS: Read the dialogues below in English, then translate them and read them in your primary language (if needed). You’re encouraged to read these dialogues with your teacher, tutor, colleagues, family, and friends to practice and improve your American English even further.
Topic: Japanese Garden
Dialogue 1
Tom: Wow, this Japanese garden is something!
Lucy: Yes, it’s gorgeous. And so peaceful.
Tom: It’s like being transported to another world.
Lucy: I love how everything here is designed with Zen principles. The careful attention to detail is impressive.
Tom: Look at the koi fish swimming in the pond. They’re so colorful and graceful.
Lucy: Yes, they are lovely. Did you know that koi symbolize good fortune and luck?
Tom: No, I didn’t. That’s interesting.
Lucy: And over there, those rocks represent a mini mountain range.
Tom: Ah, I see what you mean. This place is truly inspiring.
Dialogue 2
Sophie: This is such a peaceful place. I love the Japanese garden.
Ben: Me too. It’s so calming here.
Sophie: Look at those koi fish in the pond over there. They’re enormous!
Ben: Yeah, they’re pretty impressive.
Sophie: Have you ever tried designing a zen garden?
Ben: No, but it would be interesting to try it. I’d have lots of moss and stones everywhere.
Sophie: That sounds beautiful. I’d incorporate some water elements like fountains or small streams.
Ben: You know a lot about gardens, don’t you?
Sophie: I’m studying Horticulture, so this is one of my interests. How about you? What brings you here today?
Ben: My sister told me about this place last time we talked on the phone. She came here with her friends from work and said it was terrific.
Sophie: Well, she wasn’t wrong. If you like, let me show you around and explain more about the different areas of the garden.
Ben: That’ll be great. Thanks, Sophie.