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Intermediate – Modal Verbs

Listen and complete the sentences

1. If you make a mistake in Britain, say _____________.

2. North Americans won’t think you’re rude if you show your _______________.

3. In Britain, it’s better to say Yes, that’s ______________ even if you disagree.

4. Always be ______________ in both countries.

5. Don’t kiss or ______________ people you don’t know well.

What information comes first? Number the topics

1. _____ children’s behavior

2. _____ showing emotions

3. _____ speaking politely

4. _____ shared customs

5. _____ meeting people

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Read along as you listen (track 17)

American or British?

Every culture has different “rules” of behavior. Here are some tips to help you if you go to Britain.

If you think that customs in the United States and Great Britain are the same, think again. Americans and British people may speak the same language, but if you visit each country, you will notice some important differences in behavior.

When you meet someone in Great Britain, you shake hands and say In the United Stated, you can just smile and say . North American men often shake hands, but women and young people don’t.

Most British people hide their emotions more than Americans do. When you’re in Britain, don’t cry or laugh loudly in public. People will think you are rude. It is more common to be open with your feelings in the United States.

North Americans don’t expect children to be quiet. You will see noisy children in U.S. parks, on the sidewalks, and even in some restaurants. You don’t usually see this behavior in Great Britain.

Always be polite, and say and when you’re in either country. If you make a mistake say in Britain and in the United States. If you disagree with an American, go ahead and say so – but if you disagree with a British person, just say .

The two countries share some customs: Don’t kiss or hug people you don’t know well. Don’t stand too close to people when you’re talking. Don’t yawn when someone is speaking to you, and don’t stare at people.

If you follow these simple rules, you’ll get along fine in either country.