Think about these questions, or answer them aloud.
In lesson 2 you learned A-R-E: Answer, Reason, Example or Extra detail. Questions about your routine and free time look easy, so many learners give a quick list and stop: I get up, I go to work, I come home. That is a list, not an answer.
This lesson adds three tools that make routine answers longer, clearer and more interesting:
| Word or phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| always / usually / often | I usually get up at about seven. |
| sometimes / now and then | Now and then I have lunch with my old classmates. |
| rarely / hardly ever / never | I hardly ever watch TV these days. |
| once / twice / three times a week (a month, a year) | I go to the gym three times a week. |
| every day / every morning / every other day | I call my mum every other day. |
| on weekdays / at weekends | At weekends I sleep in until nine. |
British speakers usually say at weekends; American speakers say on weekends. Both are correct.
| Purpose | Useful language |
|---|---|
| Weekdays and weekends | On weekdays I…, but at weekends I… / During the week…, whereas on Saturdays… |
| Now and before | I used to…, but these days I… / Recently I've started… |
| Usual and unusual | Most of the time I…, but now and then I… |
| Preferences | I prefer swimming to running. / I'd rather stay in than go out. |
| It depends | It depends on the weather. If it's sunny, I… If it's raining, I… |
| Strong likes and dislikes | I really enjoy cooking. / I can't stand waiting in queues. |
Complete each sentence with a word or phrase from the box. Use each one once.
Listen and repeat each sentence. Keep the small words short (to, at, than) and make the time words clear (twice a week, every other Sunday).
Listen to each sentence, then record yourself saying it the same way. Copy the rhythm, stress and intonation.
1.I hardly ever have time for breakfast.
2.I go swimming twice a week, usually before work.
3.During the week I'm always busy, but at weekends I relax.
4.I'd rather stay in than go out on a Friday night.
5.It depends on the weather.
6.I prefer cooking at home to eating out.
7.Every other Sunday, I visit my grandparents.
Answer with no preparation time, as in the real test. Use a contrast and at least two “how often” words. Aim for about 30 seconds.
Let's talk about weekends. Is your routine at weekends different from your routine during the week?
No preparation time · 0:30 speaking
A researcher is interviewing you for a study about free time. Answer with no preparation time. You have 45 seconds: give your preference, a reason with a contrast, and a real example.
Some people like to plan their free time carefully. Others prefer to decide what to do at the last minute. Which do you prefer, and why?
No preparation time · 0:45 speaking
Save words to review them later with flashcards.
“I hardly ever eat fast food.”
“I go to the gym every other day, so three or four times a week.”
“Now and then we go out for a nice dinner.”
“In my spare time, I like baking.”
“I usually unwind with a hot bath and some music.”
“My commute takes about forty minutes by train.”
“On Sundays I sleep in until ten.”
“At weekends I catch up on emails and housework.”
“I'd rather walk than wait for the bus.”
“It's sunny today, so let's make the most of it.”
“I'm always in a hurry in the mornings.”
