Living Standards.

8. Read the text and learn the information from it.

LIVING STANDARDS

The median income of American families is about $ 34,200. The needy ageds receive aid under federal and state assistance programs.

Americans spend money freely when necessary to buy things they want. The buying habits of Americans have changed in recent years: since World War II, the demand for education, medical care, service, travel and recreation, while a smaller percentage of incomes goes for food, clothing and automobiles.

But most families manage to save money in banks and credit unions or through insurance policies. About 88 percent of all families own some life insurance.

(From “This is America”, pp. 65-67)

9. Word Study. Read the following words and phrases and make close study of their meaning. You will need them while listening to the story.

character – characteristics communication - talking

type - typical = usual dr. = doctor

value = appreciate converse - conversation

individual – individuality custom n be accustomed

master = owner appoint - appointment

Mr. = mister accept an invitation

destiny = fate materialistic on

one’s mind = opinion the whole = generally

since = because generous = big-hearted

be in a hurry = make haste by and large = in general

adopt = accept, take profession - professional

colleague = person working with guest - host (who receives)

feel - felt