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Renovation

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Exercise 1

Vocabulary

renovation

Noun

ˌrenəˈveɪʃn

the act of improving an old building, piece of furniture, etc. by renewing or restoring it to good condition

The room's renovation is almost complete.

When the renovation is finished, we'll be able to move back into the building.

Major renovations at the airport are expected to cost 50 million dollars.

The school has to undergo considerable renovations because it is over 100 years old.

ceiling

Noun

ˈsiːlɪŋ

the top inside surface of a room

The room's ceiling lets in natural light.

This room's painted ceiling is beautiful.

plaster

Noun

ˈplæstər

a substance made of lime, water and sand, that is put on walls and ceilings to create a smooth surface

Plaster has been in use for thousands of years all around the world.

flake off

Phrase

fleɪk ɑːf

to break away from something bigger due to damage (as of paint or plaster)

Steam from the shower caused the paint to flake off the walls in the bathroom.

stepladder

Noun

ˈsteplædər

a folding portable ladder that is hinged at the top, so that it can stand on its own or be folded flat

Be careful; this stepladder is very unstable.

pliers

Noun

ˈplaɪərz

a metal tool with handles, used for holding things firmly and twisting and cutting wire

The men used pliers to remove the security tags from the stolen items.

spirit level

Noun

ˈspɪrɪt levl

a glass tube with liquid and a bubble of air inside, used to test whether a surface is level based on the position of the bubble

Spirit levels became a popular tool for carpenters at the turn of the 19th century.

whitewash

Noun

ˈwaɪtwɑːʃ

a mixture of chalk or lime and water, used for painting houses and walls white

In the early 60's everyone used whitewash to paint their houses.

company

Noun

ˈkʌmpəni

the state of being with someone while he or she is doing something

Most people just want dogs for company or emotional companionship.

eternally

Adverb

ɪˈtɜːrnəli

forever

I am eternally grateful for all of your help.

Exercise 2

Dialogue Practice

Read the dialogue aloud with your tutor.

Alex is hanging out with James at James' house.
	Alex I can't believe how much money we made at your garage sale the other week. Have you decided what you're going to do with it?
	James Well, by the time we got all the junk out of the attic it was obvious it needed renovation. All the paint is starting to flake off the ceiling. There are a few holes in the walls that I need to plaster over.
	Alex I was hoping you would spend it on a big party to thank me for helping out with the garage sale.
	James Alex, you know I'm eternally grateful for your help, and your company. But no, I'm going to spend that money on equipment to fix the attic.
	Alex What do you need?
	James Well for starters I need some whitewash and a stepladder so I can repaint the ceiling.
	Alex I'm guessing you also need some plaster to fix the walls.
	James That's right. There's a whole lot of loose nails on the shelving in there, too. So I'm going to get some pliers to pull out the nails and put up some new shelves.
	Alex Oh you don't need to buy pliers. I own a pair you can borrow.
	James Really? Thanks. Do you happen to have a spirit level as well? I want to make sure the shelves are level.
	Alex Yeah I think I do. I'll go through my tools and let you know what you can borrow.
	James Thanks, that would be very helpful.
	Alex You're welcome. Maybe if I save you enough money on tools, you'll throw me a party after all.
	James You're not getting a party!

Check your understanding:

Why does James need whitewash and a stepladder?

What tools does Alex offer to lend to James?

Why does Alex offer to lend James some tools?

Exercise 3

Role Play

Role-play the following situation with your tutor.

Situation

Imagine that you are renovating your apartment or house. Ask your friend to help you out. Explain what you plan on doing (e.g. covering the walls with wallpaper, painting, etc.) Persuade your friend to help you, and don’t forget to promise to give him or her something in return. The teacher will play the role of your reluctant friend.

Exercise 4

Discussion

Have you ever renovated a flat, house or room? What was your experience like?

Do people usually renovate buildings by themselves or hire someone else in your country?

Is it expensive to renovate apartments or houses in your country? Why or why not?

Have you ever used a spirit level? If so, what for?

What does your dream home look like? Describe it in detail.