Autor: wolfgang kugler

If you stay focused, you can make it to the top – what a career

Chef Reza Kurniawan is the Executive Chef at Amanjiwo, a beautiful resort near the famous Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Indonesia. He has been a chef for almost 20 years and has worked in many countries like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia.

Before coming to Amanjiwo, Chef Reza was the Executive Chef at Shinta Mani Hotels in Siem Reap, Cambodia. He loves using fresh, local ingredients and cooking traditional food with new ideas. At Amanjiwo, he makes dishes that show the rich culture and history of Java.

Chef Reza offers special experiences at Amanjiwo, like the Chef’s Table at Joglo Sawah. Guests can enjoy a seven-course meal and learn the story behind each dish. He also organizes cooking classes where guests can learn how to make traditional Javanese food.

Chef Reza’s goal is to create meals that are not only delicious but also tell the story of Java. His food is full of flavors and shows his passion for cooking and sharing local culture.

#########################

Vocabulary

• __________Something new, not old or spoiled.
• __________From a place nearby, not from far away.
• __________The foods or things you need to make a dish, like rice, vegetables, or spices.
• __________To give someone something or make it available for them.
• __________Something special that you do or feel.
• __________To feel happy or have a good time doing something.
• __________To make something new.
• __________The taste of food or drink.
• __________A very strong love or interest in something.
• __________To let someone else have or enjoy something with you.

Find the definition

experience – local – passion – offer – create – ingredients – share – fresh – flavor – enjoy.

################################

Here are 10 statements — correct or incorrect?

1. Chef Reza Kurniawan is the Executive Chef at Amanjiwo.
2. Amanjiwo is near the Angkor Wat temple.
3. Chef Reza has worked in many countries like the United States and Qatar.
4. Chef Reza was a chef at Shinta Mani Hotels in Cambodia before Amanjiwo.
5. Chef Reza only cooks food from France.
6. At Amanjiwo, Chef Reza uses local and fresh ingredients.
7. Chef Reza teaches guests how to make traditional Javanese food.
8. The Chef’s Table experience offers guests one small meal.
9. Chef Reza’s food tells stories about Java’s culture.
10. Chef Reza started working at Amanjiwo when he was a teenager.

__________________________________-

1. Chef Reza Kurniawan is the Executive Chef at Amanjiwo.
2. Amanjiwo is near the Angkor Wat temple.
3. Chef Reza has worked in many countries like the United States and Qatar.
4. Chef Reza was a chef at Shinta Mani Hotels in Cambodia before Amanjiwo.
5. Chef Reza only cooks food from France.
6. At Amanjiwo, Chef Reza uses local and fresh ingredients.
7. Chef Reza teaches guests how to make traditional Javanese food.
8. The Chef’s Table experience offers guests one small meal.
9. Chef Reza’s food tells stories about Java’s culture.
10. Chef Reza started working at Amanjiwo when he was a teenager.

################################

Here are 10 multiple choice questions – and more than one answer may be correct:

1. Where does Chef Reza Kurniawan work now?
A) Amanjiwo
B) Shinta Mani Hotels
C) Borobudur Temple
D) United States

2. Where is Amanjiwo located?
A) Central Java
B) Cambodia
C) Near Borobudur Temple
D) Thailand

3. In which countries has Chef Reza worked?
A) United Arab Emirates
B) Saudi Arabia
C) Japan
D) Cambodia

4. What kind of ingredients does Chef Reza like to use?
A) Frozen ingredients
B) Local ingredients
C) Imported ingredients
D) Fresh ingredients

5. What did Chef Reza do at Shinta Mani Hotels?
A) Executive Chef
B) Waiter
C) Pastry Chef
D) Worked in Siem Reap

6. What special experiences does Amanjiwo offer with Chef Reza?
A) Jungle trekking
B) Cooking classes
C) Chef’s Table dinners
D) Swimming lessons

7. What does Chef Reza’s food show?
A) Love for Javanese culture
B) The history of Java
C) Only French cooking
D) Modern city life

8. What do guests learn at the cooking classes?
A) How to make traditional Javanese food
B) How to paint
C) How to cook local dishes
D) How to build houses

9. What is Chef Reza’s goal when he cooks?
A) To tell the story of Java
B) To make delicious meals
C) To open a restaurant in Paris
D) To win cooking competitions

10. What describes Chef Reza’s style of cooking?
A) Traditional with new ideas
B) Only fast food
C) Modern but with respect for local food
D) Expensive and fancy only

———————————-

1. Where does Chef Reza Kurniawan work now?
A) Amanjiwo

2. Where is Amanjiwo located?
A) Central Java
C) Near Borobudur Temple

3. In which countries has Chef Reza worked?
A) United Arab Emirates
B) Saudi Arabia
D) Cambodia

4. What kind of ingredients does Chef Reza like to use?
B) Local ingredients
D) Fresh ingredients

5. What did Chef Reza do at Shinta Mani Hotels?
A) Executive Chef
D) Worked in Siem Reap

6. What special experiences does Amanjiwo offer with Chef Reza?
B) Cooking classes
C) Chef’s Table dinners

7. What does Chef Reza’s food show?
A) Love for Javanese culture
B) The history of Java

8. What do guests learn at the cooking classes?
A) How to make traditional Javanese food
C) How to cook local dishes

9. What is Chef Reza’s goal when he cooks?
A) To tell the story of Java
B) To make delicious meals

10. What describes Chef Reza’s style of cooking?
A) Traditional with new ideas
C) Modern but with respect for local food
###############################

Interview with Chef Reza:

Interviewer: Hello Chef Reza! Can you tell us where you work now?
Chef Reza: I work at Amanjiwo, a beautiful resort near Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Indonesia.

Interviewer: Where did you work before coming to Amanjiwo?
Chef Reza: Before Amanjiwo, I was the Executive Chef at Shinta Mani Hotels in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Interviewer: In which countries have you worked during your career?
Chef Reza: I have worked in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia.

Interviewer: What kind of ingredients do you like to use in your cooking?
Chef Reza: I like to use fresh and local ingredients. They help me show the real flavors of the place.

Interviewer: What special experiences do you offer guests at Amanjiwo?
Chef Reza: I offer experiences like the Chef’s Table at Joglo Sawah, where guests enjoy a seven-course meal, and cooking classes to learn traditional Javanese food.

Interviewer: What is your goal when you cook for guests?
Chef Reza: My goal is to create delicious food that tells the story of Java and shares the rich culture of the land.

_____________________________________
A simpler version:

Interviewer: Where do you work?
Chef Reza: I work at Amanjiwo, near Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Indonesia.

Interviewer: Where did you work before?
Chef Reza: Before, I worked at Shinta Mani Hotels in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Interviewer: Which countries have you worked in?
Chef Reza: I’ve worked in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia.

Interviewer: What ingredients do you use?
Chef Reza: I use fresh, local ingredients to bring out the true flavors.

Interviewer: What do you offer guests at Amanjiwo?
Chef Reza: I offer a Chef’s Table with a seven-course meal and cooking classes for Javanese food.

Interviewer: What is your goal when you cook?
Chef Reza: My goal is to create food that tells the story of Java and shares its culture.

some general thoughts

When you work as a waiter in a restaurant, most guests are friendly and kind. But sometimes, you will meet guests who are rude or annoying. It can be hard to deal with them, but you should stay calm and act professionally.

First, try to stay calm. If a guest is angry or rude, take a deep breath and don’t take it personally. Remember, you are just doing your job. Staying calm will help you think clearly.

Second, listen to the guest. Even if they complain, let them talk. Try to understand their problem and respond in a kind way. Say things like, “I’m sorry” or “Let me fix that for you.” This can help the guest feel better.

Sometimes, the problem is not your fault, like when food is cold or late. Still, you should try to help. Talk to the kitchen or bring a new dish. Show the guest that you care.

If a guest becomes too rude or makes you feel uncomfortable, tell your manager. It’s okay to ask for help when a guest is too difficult to handle alone.

In the end, try to smile and stay professional. You want every guest to have a good experience, even if some are not nice. Being patient and kind is an important part of your job.
_________________________________

Vocabularies

1. Annoying
Someone or something that makes you feel a little angry or bothered.

2. Kind
A person who is nice and caring to others.

3. Rude
A person who is not polite and does not show respect.

4. Calm
Feeling relaxed and not angry or upset.

5. Deep breath
Breathing in a lot of air slowly to help you relax.

6. Complain
To say that you are not happy with something.

7. Respond
To answer or reply to someone.

8. Fault
The reason something is wrong or not working well.

9. An experience
Something that happens to you or something you do and learn from.

############################

Here are 10 multiple choice questions. Each question has 4 answer options, and more than one may be correct.

1. What should you do when a guest is rude?
A. Stay calm
B. Shout back at the guest
C. Take a deep breath
D. Leave the guest alone without saying anything

2. Why is it good to listen to the guest?
A. To understand the problem
B. To make the guest feel better
C. To interrupt them
D. To show you care

3. What can you say to a complaining guest?
A. “It’s not my fault”
B. “I’m sorry”
C. “Let me fix that for you”
D. “Go talk to the chef”

4. What should you do if the food is late or cold?
A. Tell the guest to wait
B. Help solve the problem
C. Talk to the kitchen
D. Blame the other staff

5. What should you do if the guest makes you feel uncomfortable?
A. Call your manager
B. Stay silent and walk away
C. Ask for help
D. Keep smiling and ignore it

6. What does it mean to be professional?
A. Stay calm
B. Be kind
C. Argue with guests
D. Do your job well

7. What helps you stay calm?
A. Taking a deep breath
B. Talking loudly
C. Remembering it’s not personal
D. Getting angry

8. What does a good waiter try to do?
A. Solve problems
B. Make the guest feel worse
C. Smile and be polite
D. Do their best

9. What is the writer’s main advice?
A. Be patient and kind
B. Always ask for a tip
C. Shout if the guest is rude
D. Stay professional

10. When is it okay to ask your manager for help?
A. When you feel bad
B. When the guest is very rude
C. When the guest is kind
D. When the problem is too big

__________________________________
Here are the correct answers:

1. A, C
2. A, B, D
3. B, C
4. B, C
5. A, C
6. A, B, D
7. A, C
8. A, C, D
9. A
10. B, D
    ##############################

Correct, incorrect?

1. You should always shout back at rude guests.

2. Taking a deep breath can help you stay calm when dealing with difficult guests.

3. It is important to ignore a guest’s complaints and walk away.

4. You should listen to the guest to understand their problem and respond kindly.

5. If the guest is rude, you should argue with them to defend yourself.

6. It’s okay to ask your manager for help if a guest makes you feel uncomfortable.

7. You should always blame the kitchen if the food is not right.

8. Being polite and professional is part of being a good waiter.

9. When a guest complains, it’s best to just say “It’s not my fault.”

10. Staying calm and professional helps to improve the guest experience.
_________________

Correct: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10

################################
The opposites are:

1. Annoying – _______
2. Rude – _______
3. Calm – _______
4. Complain – __________
5. Better – _______
6. Cold – _______
7. Uncomfortable – _______
8. Important – _______
   
   Fill in:
   praise – pleasant- unimportant – agitated – hot – polite – comfortable – worse
   
   ##############################

Answer in complete sentences:

1. Are most of the guests polite or rude?
2. Do you stay calm or get angry when a guest complains?
3. Is it better to listen to the guest or ignore them?
4. Do you try to fix the problem or leave it as it is?
5. Should you ask for help when you feel uncomfortable or handle it yourself?
6. Is it important to stay professional or act like the guest?
7. Do you stay relaxed or get stressed when a guest is upset?
8. Should you argue with guests or respond kindly to them?
9. Is it better to stay silent or speak to the guest if there is a problem?
10. Do you make guests feel better or worse when they complain?

__________________________
Here are the answers in complete sentences:

1. Most of the guests are polite.
2. You should stay calm when a guest complains.
3. It is better to listen to the guest rather than ignore them.
4. You should try to fix the problem instead of leaving it as it is.
5. You should ask for help when you feel uncomfortable, rather than handling it yourself.
6. It is important to stay professional instead of acting like the guest.
7. You should stay relaxed when a guest is upset.
8. You should respond kindly to guests rather than argue with them.
9. It is better to speak to the guest if there is a problem instead of staying silent.
10. You should make guests feel better when they complain.
    ##############################

>>>If you’ve had a rude, annoying guest,
>>>>be it in a restaurant, or at the front desk,
>>>>>write a brief report on your experience.
>>>>>>You can send it to me via SMFrockZ(at)gmx(dot)at,
>>>>>>>I’ll have a look at it, if necessary correct,
>>>>>>>>and add some comments.
>>>>>>>>>BRUSH UP YOUR ENGLISH

what a guy

Bill Bensley is a famous architect and designer who creates eco-friendly resorts and hotels. He started his career after studying at Harvard and later opened design studios in Bangkok and Bali. He has worked on many luxury resorts, including Four Seasons and Oberoi hotels.

Bensley is known for his colorful, creative style and love for nature. He believes in „Minimal Intervention,“ which means building around nature instead of removing it. For example, at a resort in Thailand, he kept all the trees and worked with the land’s natural shape.

In Cambodia, he built a luxury tented camp in the Cardamom Mountains. The money from this camp helps protect wildlife and forests. Bensley also teaches others about eco-friendly design through his book Sensible Sustainable Solutions and a TV show called Designing Paradise.

His goal is to prove that luxury travel can also help the environment. He wants the travel industry to care more about nature and be more responsible.

################################

Vocabulary explained:

• Eco-friendly: Good for nature; not harmful to the environment.
• A resort: A place where people go to relax or have a vacation, often with hotels, pools, and activities.
• Creative: Having new and fun ideas; being able to make interesting things.
• Intervention: Stepping in to change something or help with a situation.
• To remove: To take something away.
• The natural shape: The way something is in nature, without being changed.
• Tented camp: A place to stay where people sleep in large, fancy tents, usually in nature.
• Wildlife: Animals that live in nature (like birds, tigers, or monkeys).
• Sensible: Smart and reasonable; makes good sense.
• Sustainable: Something that can last a long time without hurting the planet.
• A solution: An answer or way to fix a problem.
• To prove: To show that something is true.
• Environment: The natural world around us (like trees, water, animals, and air).
• To care about: To think something is important and want to help.
• Responsible: Doing the right thing and thinking about how your actions affect others or the planet.

################################

Correct or incorrect?

1. Bill Bensley is a designer who loves nature.
2. He started his first design office in New York.
3. He likes to build without cutting down trees.
4. His idea is called „Minimal Intervention.“
5. He went to Harvard University.
6. He built a tent camp in the Cambodian desert.
7. The camp helps save animals and forests.
8. His designs are boring and plain.
9. He uses bright colors and fun ideas.
10. He made a resort in Thailand and kept all the trees.
11. The camp gives money to big shopping malls.
12. He has a TV show called Designing Paradise.
13. He wrote a book about helping the planet.
14. He wants luxury travel to protect nature.
15. He doesn’t care about the environment.

################################

Here are 10 multiple choice questions based on the text. Each has 4 answer options, and more than one may be correct:

1. What is Bill Bensley’s job?
A) Architect
B) Chef
C) Designer
D) Tour guide

2. Where did Bill Bensley open design studios?
A) Bangkok
B) Bali
C) New York
D) Singapore

3. What does “Minimal Intervention” mean in his work?
A) Building without changing nature too much
B) Using fewer workers
C) Cutting all the trees first
D) Designing around nature

4. What is special about his resort in Thailand?
A) It uses bright colors
B) It kept all the trees
C) It is in the desert
D) It follows the land’s natural shape

5. What is true about the tented camp in Cambodia?
A) It’s in the mountains
B) It helps protect animals
C) It gives money to shopping malls
D) Guests sleep in fancy tents

6. How does Bensley share his ideas with others?
A) Through a TV show
B) By writing books
C) By selling clothes
D) Through speeches and interviews

7. What is Bensley’s style like?
A) Colorful
B) Boring
C) Creative
D) Simple and plain

8. What does Bensley want the travel industry to do?
A) Care more about the planet
B) Make bigger hotels
C) Be responsible
D) Protect nature

9. What did Bensley study in school?
A) Design
B) Business
C) Architecture
D) Law

10. What does Bensley believe about luxury travel?
A) It can help nature
B) It should ignore the environment
C) It can be eco-friendly
D) It must be simple and cheap

################################

What is the message? What is the correct order of words?

1. is a Bill great Bensley designer.
   YOU WRITE: Bill Bensley is a great designer.
2. environment He about cares the .
3. Harvard University studied He at
4. many luxury He on resorts works
5. fun uses designs He
6. a camp He tented built
7. protects animals The and camp forests.
8. a TV He on show made
9. is sustainability book about His
10. He hurting without builds nature.

##############################
Which word are we looking for?

1. ___________Good for nature and the environment.
2. ___________ place where people go for vacations.
3. ___________Having new, original ideas.
4. ___________Changing or helping something in a situation.
5. ___________To take something away.
6. ___________Related to tents or inside a tent.
7. ___________Animals and plants that live in nature.
8. ___________Wise and reasonable.
9. ___________Able to be continued without harming nature.
10. ___________A way to fix a problem.

################################

Interviewing Bill Bensley

Interviewer: Bill, what does „eco-friendly“ design mean to you?

Bill Bensley: It means creating designs that protect nature and the environment.

Interviewer: Can you tell us about the resorts you design?

Bill Bensley: I design resorts that blend with nature and wildlife.

Interviewer: What does „sustainable“ design mean in your work?

Bill Bensley: „Sustainable“ means designing things that last without harming nature.

Interviewer: You mention „Minimal Intervention.“ What does that mean?

Bill Bensley: It means I work with nature, not against it.

Interviewer: Can you tell us about the tented camp you created?

Bill Bensley: I designed a tented camp that protects wildlife and forests.

Interviewer: How important is wildlife to your work?

Bill Bensley: Wildlife is very important in my designs and projects.

Interviewer: What makes your designs different from others?

Bill Bensley: My designs are creative, colorful, and nature-friendly.

Interviewer: What do you want people to feel when visiting your resorts?

Bill Bensley: I want them to feel connected to nature and relaxed.

################################

Which word are we looking for?

L i n k

1. Set a Clear Goal

Everyone has a dream, but to achieve it, a young person must first know exactly what they want. A clear goal gives direction and helps stay focused. Without a goal, it is easy to get lost and distracted.

2. Make a Plan

A dream without a plan is just a wish. To succeed, one must break the dream into small steps and follow them daily. Planning helps in staying organized and tracking progress.

3. Stay Motivated

Challenges and failures will come, but staying motivated is important. A young person should always remember why they started. Reading success stories, listening to inspiring people, and staying positive can help maintain motivation.

4. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

Having the right people around makes a big difference. Supportive friends, family, and mentors provide encouragement and useful advice. They help during difficult times and keep the dream alive.

5. Learn from Mistakes

Failure is not the end; it is a lesson. Every mistake teaches something valuable. The key is to never give up and keep improving. Many successful people failed before they achieved their dreams.

Conclusion

With clear goals, hard work, motivation, and learning from mistakes, any young person can turn their dream into reality. The journey may not be easy, but determination will lead to success.

#####################

If you had to give a presentation on the topic, your keywords could look like that:

Main Topic: How a Young Person Can Achieve Their Dream

1. Set a Clear Goal

• Know exactly what you want
• Helps stay focused
• Avoid distractions

2. Make a Plan

• Break the dream into small steps
• Follow the steps daily
• Stay organized and track progress

3. Stay Motivated

• Challenges will come, don’t give up
• Remember why you started
• Read success stories, stay positive

4. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

• Good friends and mentors give advice
• Encouragement during hard times
• Keeps the dream alive

5. Learn from Mistakes

• Failure is a lesson, not the end
• Improve with each mistake
• Success comes with persistence

Conclusion

• Hard work, patience, and learning lead to success
• Stay determined and never stop trying

################################

• To achieve– To reach or get something you worked for.
• A goal– Something you want to do or get in the future.
• To stay focused – To keep paying attention to something without getting distracted.
• To get lost– To not know where to go or what to do.
• To get distracted – To stop paying attention because of something else.
• To succeed– To do something well and reach your goal.
• To track– To check progress and see how well you are doing.
• To be motivated – To feel excited and ready to do something.
• A challenge– Something hard that you have to try to do.
• A failure – When something does not go well or does not work.
• A success– When something goes well and works.
• To inspire– To make someone feel excited to do something.
• To maintain– To keep something the same way over time.
• To surround– To be all around something or someone.
• Supportive– Helping and caring about someone.
• An encouragement – Words or actions that make someone feel good and want to keep going.
• An advice– A helpful idea or suggestion.
• Valuable – Very useful or important.
• To improve– To get better at something.
• To fail– To not succeed in something.
• Determination– The strong feeling to never give up.

################################

There are 3 spelling errors in each sentence – find them.

1. I want to acheve my gole and be succesful.
   achieve – goal – successful
2. She trys to stay focased but getts distrackted.
3. He was lost becuse he did not plan propperly.
4. Hard work helps you sucseed in life and rech your dreems.
5. We must track our proggress to see impruvement.
6. She is motiveted by her famly and freinds.
7. Every chalenge makes you stronger and smarter.
8. Failyer is not the end, its a lesson to lern.
9. He inspiers others with his kind words and suport.
10. Deturmination helps you keap going even when its hard.

################################

More than 1 answer may be correct!

1. What is the first step to achieving a dream?

A) Working hard every day
B) Setting a clear goal
C) Waiting for the right time
D) Making a plan

2. Why is it important to make a plan?

A) It helps you stay organized
B) It makes the goal easier to achieve
C) It makes success happen instantly
D) It helps track progress

3. How can a person stay motivated?

A) By remembering why they started
B) By avoiding all challenges
C) By reading success stories
D) By staying positive

4. What helps a person overcome difficulties?

A) Giving up when things get hard
B) Having supportive friends and mentors
C) Learning from failures
D) Staying determined

5. What does it mean to be distracted?

A) To focus on your goal
B) To stop paying attention because of something else
C) To get lost and not know what to do
D) To succeed in life

6. Why is failure not the end?

A) It helps you learn and improve
B) It means you should stop trying
C) It is part of the journey to success
D) It teaches valuable lessons

7. What makes a person successful?

A) Hard work
B) Determination
C) Never making mistakes
D) Learning from challenges

8. What does it mean to track progress?

A) To check how well you are doing
B) To forget about your goals
C) To see if you are improving
D) To stop working toward success

################################

Here’s a conversation where a young student asks a senior for advice on how to live her dream and stay focused – complete (useful answers/questions at the end of the text):


Student: How do I start living my dream?
Senior:_____________________________

Student:____________________________
Senior: Set a clear goal. Write it down and keep it in front of you.

Student:How can I stay focused on my goal?
Senior:Break it into small steps. Focus on one step at a time.

Student:___________________________
Senior: When you feel distracted, remind yourself why you started. Stay strong.

Student:______________________________
Senior:Challenges are part of the journey. Face them with patience and learn from them.

Student:What should I do when I feel like giving up?
Senior:______________________

Student:___________________________
Senior: Think about the rewards when you reach your goal, and keep a positive attitude.

Student:_____________________________
Senior: Yes, but choose people who support and encourage you.

Student:How do I learn from my mistakes?
Senior: See mistakes as lessons. They help you grow and do better next time.

Student:____________________________
Senior: Track your steps. Look back and see how far you’ve come.

a) Should I tell others about my dream?

b) What if I get distracted?

c) Keep pushing forward. Even small progress is important.

d) How do I know if I’m making progress?

e) Start by knowing exactly what your dream is. Be clear about it.

f) How do I deal with challenges along the way?

g) What’s the first thing I should do?

h) How can I keep myself motivated?
##############################

Cambodia is bringing back the Angkor Sankranta Festival in Siem Reap for Khmer New Year 2025. This event will take place from April 14 to 16 under the theme „Smile to Celebrate the New Year.“

Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed that this festival is for everyone. It is organized by a group of young people to attract more tourists and promote Cambodia’s culture. The Angkor Sankranta Festival first started in 2013 and has been held for 12 years.

This year, the festival will be more exciting, with activities at six locations, including Angkor Wat, the Royal Residence Park, Siem Reap River, King’s Road, Pub Street, and Angkor Gyeongju. Visitors can enjoy traditional Khmer games, performances, and cultural events. Some highlights include the Angkor Heartbeat Show, Khmer Chess, Traditional Martial Arts, Ox Cart Racing, and Buddha Bathing Ceremony. There will also be parades, folk dances, and a water festival.

This festival is an important way to celebrate Khmer New Year while sharing Cambodian traditions with both locals and visitors. It will bring happiness, fun, and culture to Siem Reap.

° Festival – A big party or special days with fun, music, and traditions.

• Event – A special time when people do something together.
• Celebrate – To do something fun for a happy day, like a birthday or New Year.
• Confirm – To say „yes, it will happen“ or „yes, it is true.“
• Attract – To make people come or like something.
• Promote – To tell people about something so they know and like it.
• Exciting – Very fun and interesting.
• Location – A place where something happens.
• Enjoy – To have a good time.
• Performance – A show with dancing, singing, or acting.
• Include – To have something as part of a group.
• Share – To give something to others.

#########################

Multiple Choice Questions – more than 1 answer may be correct:

1. Where will the Angkor Sankranta Festival 2025 take place?
   A) Phnom Penh
   B) Siem Reap
   C) Battambang
   D) Sihanoukville
2. When will the festival be held?
   A) March 10-12
   B) April 14-16
   C) May 1-3
   D) April 20-22
3. What is the theme of the 2025 festival?
   A) „Smile to Celebrate the New Year“
   B) „Khmer Culture for Everyone“
   C) „Tradition and Tourism“
   D) „Angkor Festival of Light“
4. Who confirmed that the festival is for everyone?
   A) The King of Cambodia
   B) Hun Manet
   C) Hun Sen
   D) The Minister of Tourism
5. Why is the festival being organized?
   A) To promote Cambodia’s culture
   B) To attract more tourists
   C) To celebrate Khmer New Year
   D) To support local businesses
6. How many locations will host festival activities?
   A) Four
   B) Five
   C) Six
   D) Seven
7. Which of these places will have festival activities?
   A) Angkor Wat
   B) Royal Residence Park
   C) Phnom Penh Night Market
   D) Siem Reap River
8. Which of these activities will be part of the festival?
   A) Khmer Chess
   B) Traditional Martial Arts
   C) Buddha Bathing Ceremony
   D) Car Racing
9. How long has the Angkor Sankranta Festival been held?
   A) 5 years
   B) 10 years
   C) 12 years
   D) 15 years
10. What kind of performances will be at the festival?

• A) Folk dances
• B) Modern pop concerts
• C) Angkor Heartbeat Show
• D) Water festival activities

##############################

Correct or incorrect?

0. The Angkor Sankranta Festival 2025 will be held in Phnom Penh.

1. The festival will take place from April 14 to 16.
2. The theme of the festival is „Tradition and Tourism.“
3. Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed that the festival is for everyone.
4. The festival is being organized to promote Cambodia’s culture and attract tourists.
5. Festival activities will be held at only three locations.
6. Some festival locations include Angkor Wat, Royal Residence Park, and Siem Reap River.
7. The festival will feature Formula One car racing.
8. Visitors can enjoy traditional Khmer games, performances, and cultural events.
9. The Angkor Sankranta Festival started in 2020.

###############################

Upps, the words in the sentence are not in the correct order – find the original sentence:

• Prime everyone festival Minister Manet Hun confirmed for
• Activities exciting this year will be more
• Siem Reap locations festival have six activities
• Angkor Wat and include activities Royal Park
• Water festival will the part be of celebrations
• Young people group festival organizing the is
• Performances cultural will be there in the festival
• Visitors traditional games Khmer enjoy can and performances
• Started 2013 festival has in the Angkor

################################

An interview on the festival, find the proper answers (given below):

Interviewer: Can you tell us about the Angkor Sankranta Festival?
Answer:_______________________________________

Interviewer: What is the theme for this year’s festival?
Answer:_______________________________________

Interviewer: Who is organizing the festival?
Answer:_______________________________________

Interviewer: Where will the festival take place?
Answer:_______________________________________

Interviewer: What kind of activities can people expect?
Answer:_______________________________________

Interviewer: Why is this festival important?
Answer:_______________________________________

Interviewer: How long has the festival been held?
Answer:_______________________________________

a) It is a festival to celebrate Khmer New Year in Siem Reap.
b) It celebrates Khmer New Year and shares Cambodian culture.
c) It will be at six locations in Siem Reap.
d) A group of young people is organizing it.
e) The theme is „Smile to Celebrate the New Year.“
f) People can enjoy games, performances, and cultural events.
g) The festival started in 2013, and this is the 12th time.

################################

Can you complete – test/improve your vocabulary:

The Angkor Sankranta _____________is returning to Siem Reap for Khmer New Year 2025, from April 14 to 16.

The festival is organized by young people to _____________ tourism and share Cambodian culture.

It _____________ in 2013 and has been held every year since.

This year, there will be fun _____________ at six places in Siem Reap.

People can enjoy traditional games, performances, and cultural ________________.

The festival is a way to _________________the New Year and share Cambodia’s traditions with locals and visitors.

It promises happiness, fun, and culture for _______________ .

################################

For those interested: write a short essay about why you like the festival, about 100 words.
Send your text to me via SMFrockZ(at)gmx(dot)at, I’ll have a look at it, if necessary, I’ll correct it, and send it back – improve your English.

what is sending someone on an April Fool’s Day joke on April 1 ?

The phrase “sending someone on an April Fool’s Day joke” comes from a tradition in German-speaking countries and other cultures. It means tricking someone with a joke or a false task, especially on April 1st, which is April Fool’s Day. This day is when people play harmless pranks on each other.

The tradition might have started long ago, in the Middle Ages or Renaissance. One story says that before 1582, the new year began on April 1st in many places. When the calendar changed, people who still celebrated the new year on April 1st were teased and called fools. This led to the custom of playing tricks on that day.

In Germany, people say “jemanden auf den ersten April schicken” to describe sending someone on a silly or fake errand as a joke. For example, a person might tell a friend, “Go to the store; they have free chocolate!” But when the friend gets there, it’s not true. It’s just a fun trick for April Fool’s Day.

This tradition is a playful way to celebrate the day, and it shows how people enjoy laughter and surprises on April 1st.

################################

Definitions :

• A fool: Someone who does silly things or believes things that are not true.
• Joke: Something funny you say or do to make people laugh.
• To trick someone: To fool someone by making them believe something that is not real.
• A task: A job or something you need to do.
• Harmless: Something that doesn’t hurt anyone or cause any damage.
• Pranks: Little tricks or jokes you play on people to surprise them, usually for fun.
• To celebrate: To have a happy time because of a special day or event.
• To tease: To make fun of someone in a light, not mean way.
• An errand: A short trip to do something, like going to the store.
• Playful: Happy and fun, like when you’re joking or not being serious.
• To enjoy: To like something and have fun with it.
• A surprise: Something unexpected that happens or that you give to someone.

################################
Here are 10 statements, with 5 correct and 5 incorrect:

1. April Fool’s Day is a day for jokes.
2. The phrase started in English-speaking countries.
3. Some people once celebrated New Year on April 1st.
4. The calendar changed in 1782.
5. Germans say “jemanden auf den ersten April schicken” for pranking.
6. April Fool’s Day began in the 2000s.
7. A prank example: telling someone a store gives free chocolate.
8. April Fool’s Day is for giving gifts.
9. People enjoy laughing and being surprised on April 1st.
10. Only Germany and Austria celebrate April Fool’s Day.

################################

Here are 10 multiple-choice questions – more than one answer may be correct:

1. What is April Fool’s Day about?
   a) Playing jokes
   b) Giving gifts
   c) Telling lies
   d) Having fun
2. Where did the phrase “sending someone on an April Fool’s joke” come from?
   a) Germany
   b) France
   c) England
   d) Austria
3. What might be an April Fool’s prank?
   a) Telling a friend a store has free chocolate
   b) Throwing a big party
   c) Sending someone on a silly task
   d) Buying a gift for a friend
4. When did some people celebrate New Year before the calendar changed?
   a) April 1st
   b) January 1st
   c) December 31st
   d) March 1st
5. What does the German phrase “jemanden auf den ersten April schicken” mean?
   a) To give someone a present
   b) To send someone on a joke errand
   c) To tell a funny story
   d) To make someone laugh
6. Which countries celebrate April Fool’s Day?
   a) Germany
   b) Only Austria
   c) Many countries
   d) Only the U.S.
7. When did the calendar change that may have started April Fool’s Day?
   a) 1582
   b) 1782
   c) 2000
   d) 1700
8. How do people feel about April Fool’s Day?
   a) Happy
   b) Angry
   c) Surprised
   d) Excited
9. Which of these is true about April Fool’s Day?
   a) It started in the Middle Ages or Renaissance
   b) It is a serious holiday
   c) It is only for children
   d) It is for playing tricks
10. What do people enjoy on April 1st?
    a) Laughter
    b) Surprises
    c) Giving speeches
    d) Playing pranks
    ##############################

Complete (words at end of exercise):

1. April Fool’s Day is a ___________ for jokes.
2. People ___________ harmless tricks on April 1st.
3. The __________ “sending someone on an April Fool’s joke” comes from Germany.
4. Some people once ____________ New Year on April 1st.
5. The __________changed around 1582.
6. Germans say “jemanden auf den ersten April schicken” to mean tricking _____________.
7. A common __________ is telling someone false information.
8. Many countries ____________April Fool’s Day.
9. April Fool’s Day is for ________ and laughter.
10. People __________ surprises on April 1st.

a) celebrate b) day c) someone d) celebrated e) phrase f) enjoy g) calendar h) fun i) play j) prank

################################
Which words are we looking for?

– A presentation

Easter Holidays in Europe – go on holidays to eg Cambodia,
April 12 – April 21, 2025.
Painted Easter eggs dominate.


Backgroundstory:

In Europe people have painted Easter eggs for many years. This tradition is popular in many countries. The egg is a symbol of new life and spring. In Christian belief, it represents Jesus‘ resurrection.
Long ago, people also used eggs to celebrate nature and fertility.

There are many ways to paint Easter eggs. Some people use natural dyes from plants, like onion skins or beets. Others use store-bought colors, wax, or paint. In Ukraine, people make special eggs called „pysanky“ with detailed patterns. In Greece, eggs are dyed red to represent Jesus’ sacrifice.

Painting Easter eggs is fun for families, especially children. It is a time for creativity and joy.
Some people give decorated eggs as gifts. Others use them for games, like egg rolling or egg tapping.

Today, some people use plastic or chocolate eggs instead of real ones. Still, the tradition of decorating eggs continues. It is a way to celebrate life, spring, and renewal.

###########################

• To paint – To put color on something using a brush or other tools.
• Spring (season) – The time of year when flowers bloom, trees grow new leaves, and the weather gets warmer.
• Belief – Something that a person thinks is true.
• Resurrection – Coming back to life after death.
• Fertility – The ability to have babies or grow plants.
• A dye – A liquid that changes the color of things, like clothes or eggs.
• Onion – A round vegetable with a strong smell and taste, often used in cooking.
• A pattern – A design made with shapes, lines, or colors that repeat.
• A sacrifice – Giving up something important for a good reason.
• Creativity – The ability to make new and interesting things.
• Joy – A feeling of great happiness.
• To decorate – To make something look nice by adding colors or designs.
• A gift – Something you give to someone to show love or friendship.
• Egg tapping – A game where two people hit their eggs together to see whose egg stays unbroken.
• Renewal – A fresh start or something becoming new again.

################################

Here are 10 statements based on the text – only 6 are correct. Which?

1. Easter eggs are painted to celebrate new life and spring.
2. In Ukraine, people make pysanky eggs with simple, single-color designs.
3. The color red is used in Greece to represent Jesus’ sacrifice.
4. People use only natural dyes, like onion skins and beets, to color eggs.
5. Egg tapping is a game where two people try to break each other’s eggs.
6. Painting Easter eggs is only for children, not adults.
7. The tradition of painting eggs has been around for many years.
8. Chocolate eggs have replaced real eggs in all Easter celebrations.
9. Easter eggs are sometimes given as gifts.
10. The egg is a symbol of new life and renewal.

##############################

Here are 10 multiple-choice questions based on the text – more than 1 answer may be correct:

1. Why do people paint Easter eggs?
   a) To celebrate new life and spring
   b) To show their love for animals
   c) As a symbol of Jesus‘ resurrection
   d) To make their food taste better
2. Which materials can be used to color Easter eggs?
   a) Onion skins
   b) Beets
   c) Store-bought dyes
   d) Salt
3. Which countries have special traditions for decorating Easter eggs?
   a) Ukraine
   b) Greece
   c) Japan
   d) Poland
4. What does the red color on Greek Easter eggs symbolize?
   a) Jesus’ sacrifice
   b) Love and friendship
   c) Spring and flowers
   d) The sun
5. Which of the following are games played with Easter eggs?
   a) Egg tapping
   b) Egg rolling
   c) Egg painting race
   d) Egg hiding
6. How can Easter eggs be decorated?
   a) Painting them
   b) Using wax designs
   c) Sticking paper on them
   d) Boiling them in plain water
7. What is a pysanka?
   a) A type of Easter egg with detailed designs
   b) A chocolate egg
   c) A traditional Polish Easter dish
   d) A natural egg dye
8. What do Easter eggs symbolize?
   a) New life
   b) Renewal
   c) The end of winter
   d) The moon
9. Which of these are common Easter egg traditions?
   a) Giving decorated eggs as gifts
   b) Eating eggs only in the summer
   c) Using eggs to make a necklace
   d) Coloring eggs with family
10. How do people celebrate Easter with eggs today?
    a) Painting real eggs
    b) Using plastic or chocolate eggs
    c) Throwing eggs at houses
    d) Playing games with eggs

################################

Here are 10 simple sentences based on the text – complete:

1. People paint Easter eggs to ___________ new life.
2. The egg is a symbol of spring and __________
3. In _____________ people make special eggs called pysanky.
4. Some people use onion skins to ___________ eggs.
5. In Greece, Easter __________are often red.
6. Families enjoy ______________eggs together.
7. Easter eggs can be given as __________
8. Egg tapping is a __________ played at Easter.
9. Some people use ___________ eggs instead of real ones.
10. ____________ Easter eggs is a fun tradition.
    
    a) eggs b) renewal c) chocolate d) decorating e) celebrate f) gifts g) Ukraine h) game i) dye j) painting

################################

Sentences got mixed up, can you re-write them?

1) to celebrate People eggs Easter paint

2) life and symbolize spring Eggs new

3) colors decorate with Families eggs

4) enjoy Children Easter eggs painting

5) tap in a game Players eggs.
#########################

Interview about Easter Eggs – complete, answers at the end of the dialogue:

Me: What are Easter eggs?
Friend: _____

Me: Why do people paint Easter eggs?
Friend: _____

Me: What do eggs represent?
Friend: _____

Me: How do people color the eggs?
Friend: _____

Me: What is a pysanka?
Friend: _____

Me: Why are some eggs red in Greece?
Friend: _____

Me: What games do people play with Easter eggs?
Friend: _____

Me: Can people give Easter eggs as gifts?
Friend: _____

Me: Do people only use real eggs?
Friend: _____

Me: Who decorates Easter eggs?
Friend: _____

a) Both children and adults decorate Easter eggs.

b) People paint eggs to celebrate new life.

c) Red eggs in Greece stand for Jesus‘ sacrifice.

d) Yes, Easter eggs can be given as gifts.

e) People use paint or dye to color the eggs.

f) People play egg tapping and egg rolling.

g) Easter eggs are eggs decorated for Easter.

h) No, people also use plastic or chocolate eggs.

i) A pysanka is a special Ukrainian egg with designs.

j) Eggs represent new life and spring.