Interactive English lesson about political terminology, polite questions, non-count nouns, and political beliefs.
Open these only when you want to check the original lesson pages.
Start by testing your political vocabulary. Choose the correct term for each definition.
Paul: What a coincidence! I was just thinking about calling you. It’s been such a long time.
Carlo: It sure has. Let’s sit down and catch up. What are you up to these days?
Paul: Busy, busy. The office has been crazy, with the election coming up next month. You can imagine.
Carlo: But I’ll be working at a TV station is exciting. Hey, Paul, do you mind if I ask you a political question? I hope it’s not inappropriate. I’m not sure it’s polite to ask about politics here in the U.S.
Paul: That’s funny. They always say not to talk about religion or politics, but everyone does. Shoot.
Carlo: OK. Who are you planning to vote for in the election?
Paul: Well, because we’re friends, I’ll answer. But I should warn you that it might not be a good idea to ask just anyone that question. Some people might find it a little personal.
Carlo: Oops.
Paul: No worries. Actually, I haven’t made up my mind. I’m leaning toward Clancy, though. I think he’s better than the other guy.
Choose the sentence that has the closest meaning to the expression from the Photo Story.
Rule: Abstract ideas such as advice, education, health, information, news, peace, politics, poverty, progress, and work are always non-count nouns.
Use a singular verb with these ideas when they are the subject: Good news is important. Do not add -s: say advice, not advices.
Radical and reactionary are usually the two strongest ends of the continuum. Moderate is closer to the middle. Liberal usually supports change, while conservative usually prefers tradition or slower change.
A: Do you mind if I ask you a political question?
B: No problem. What would you like to know?
A: Well, are you a liberal or a conservative?
B: Actually, I’m neither. I like to make up my mind based on the issue.
A: So, would you say you’re an independent?
B: I guess you could say that.
A: If you don’t want to answer ...
B: No offense, but I feel a little uncomfortable talking about that. I hope you don’t mind.
A: Absolutely not. It’s a good thing I asked.
Are you a conservative? can have different meanings depending on which word receives the strongest stress.
CONservative can show surprise about the belief. YOU can show surprise about the person. ARE can show that the speaker wants to confirm the idea.
Answer these five important questions to finish the lesson.