LESSON 01 | BEGINNER (A1–A2)

Welcome to your first lesson! In this video, you'll practice 36 real-life English conversations — spoken slowly and clearly so you can follow along, repeat, and build your confidence step by step. Below you'll find the full transcript, a vocabulary list with Vietnamese translations, and exercises to test yourself. Let's get started!

💡 Tip: Listen once to understand the general meaning. Then listen a second time and try to speak along with the conversations. This active practice is the fastest way to improve!

What's in this lesson?

• Part 1: Full Transcript (36 Conversations)
• Part 2: Vocabulary List (30 Words)

Part 1: Full Transcript

Social & Introductions

Conversation 1 — First Meeting Social

Sarah: Hi! My name is Sarah. What's your name?

Tom: Hello, Sarah! I'm Tom. Nice to meet you.

Sarah: Nice to meet you too, Tom. Where are you from?

Tom: I'm from Canada. And you?

Sarah: I'm from Brazil. How long have you been here?

Tom: About three months. I'm still learning English!

Sarah: Really? Your English is very good!

Tom: Thank you! I practice every day.

Conversation 2 — At a Party Social

Lisa: Hey, I don't think we've met. I'm Lisa.

Kevin: Oh, hi Lisa! I'm Kevin. I'm a friend of Mike's.

Lisa: Oh cool! How do you know Mike?

Kevin: We went to school together. What about you?

Lisa: We work together. Are you enjoying the party?

Kevin: Yes, very much! The food is amazing.

Lisa: I know, right? Do you want to get some more?

Kevin: Sure! Let's go.

Conversation 3 — Introducing a Friend Social

Anna: David, I want you to meet my friend, Emma.

David: Hi Emma, it's great to meet you!

Emma: You too, David! Anna has told me a lot about you.

David: Good things, I hope!

Anna: Of course! I said you're the funniest person I know.

David: Ha! That's very kind. What do you do, Emma?

Emma: I'm a teacher. And you?

David: I'm a software engineer. That's interesting — what do you teach?

Emma: English, actually!

David: No way! I've been wanting to improve my English.

Emma: Well, you sound great to me!

Daily Life & Routines

Conversation 4 — Morning Routine Daily Life

A: What time do you wake up every day?

B: I usually wake up at 6:30. What about you?

A: I wake up at 7. I'm not a morning person!

B: Me neither, but I have to start work at 8.

A: What do you do first in the morning?

B: I make coffee and check my phone. Then I shower.

A: Do you eat breakfast?

B: Yes, always. I have eggs or cereal. Breakfast is important!

A: I agree. I usually have toast and orange juice.

B: Sounds healthy! How long does it take you to get to work?

A: About 30 minutes by bus. You?

B: I drive, so about 20 minutes.

Conversation 5 — Evening Routine Daily Life

A: What do you usually do after work?

B: I go to the gym on Mondays and Wednesdays. Other days I relax at home.

A: What do you do to relax?

B: I watch TV or read a book. Sometimes I cook dinner.

A: Do you cook often?

B: About three times a week. I enjoy it.

A: What's your favorite thing to cook?

B: Pasta! It's easy and delicious. Do you cook?

A: Not really. I usually order food online.

B: You should try cooking. It's fun and saves money!

A: Maybe you're right. Can you teach me?

B: Sure! Come over on Saturday.

Shopping & Restaurants

Conversation 6 — Ordering Coffee Shopping

Barista: Hi! Welcome. What can I get you?

Customer: Hi! Can I have a latte, please?

Barista: Of course! What size? Small, medium, or large?

Customer: Medium, please. Can I also get a blueberry muffin?

Barista: Sorry, we're out of blueberry. We have chocolate chip and banana.

Customer: Chocolate chip sounds great!

Barista: Sure! Would you like anything else?

Customer: No, that's everything. How much is it?

Barista: That'll be $7.50, please.

Customer: Here you go. Can I pay by card?

Barista: Yes, of course. Tap here, please.

Customer: Thanks! What's the WiFi password?

Barista: It's "cafe2025". Enjoy your order!

Conversation 7 — At a Restaurant Shopping

Waiter: Good evening! Do you have a reservation?

Guest: Yes, we do. It's under the name "Johnson." Table for two.

Waiter: Perfect, Mr. Johnson. Right this way, please.

Guest: Thank you. This is a lovely restaurant.

Waiter: Thank you! Can I start you off with some drinks?

Guest: Yes, I'll have sparkling water. And my wife will have a glass of red wine.

Waiter: Excellent choice. Here are your menus. I'll give you a few minutes.

Guest: Actually, I think we're ready to order.

Waiter: Great! What would you like?

Guest: I'll have the grilled salmon, and she'll have the pasta.

Waiter: Would you like soup or salad to start?

Guest: A Caesar salad for both of us, please.

Waiter: Perfect. Your food will be out shortly!

Conversation 8 — Asking for the Bill Shopping

Customer: Excuse me! Can we get the bill, please?
Waiter: Of course! Was everything okay?
Customer: Yes, it was delicious! The steak was amazing.
Waiter: I'm so glad to hear that. Here's your bill.
Customer: Thank you. Do you accept credit cards?
Waiter: Yes, we do. Visa and Mastercard.
Customer: Great. Here you go.
Waiter: Would you like change?
Customer: No, keep the change. Great service tonight!
Waiter: Thank you so much! Please come again.

Conversation 9 — At a Clothing Store Shopping

Staff: Hi, can I help you find anything?
Customer: Yes, please. I'm looking for a jacket.
Staff: What style are you looking for? Casual or formal?
Customer: Something casual. For the weekend.
Staff: How about this one? It's very popular right now.
Customer: I like it! Do you have it in blue?
Staff: Let me check. We have navy blue and light blue.
Customer: Navy blue, please. In a medium.
Staff: Here you go! The fitting rooms are on the right.
Customer: Thank you. It fits perfectly! How much is it?
Staff: It's $65. But it's 20% off today!
Customer: Oh great! I'll take it.

Conversation 10 — At a Supermarket Shopping

Customer: Excuse me, where can I find the pasta?
Staff: Pasta is in aisle 5, on the right side.
Customer: Thank you! And what about olive oil?
Staff: That's in aisle 6, near the cooking sauces.
Customer: Perfect. One more thing — do you have fresh basil?
Staff: Yes! Fresh herbs are in the produce section, near the entrance.
Customer: Thank you so much. You've been very helpful!
Staff: My pleasure! Is there anything else?
Customer: No, that's everything. Have a great day!
Staff: You too!

Travel & Transport

Conversation 11 — On the Street (Asking for Directions) Travel

Tourist: Excuse me, I'm lost. Can you help me?
Local: Of course! Where are you trying to go?
Tourist: I'm looking for the Central Museum.
Local: Oh, it's not far! Go straight down this street for two blocks.
Tourist: Okay, two blocks. Then what?
Local: Turn left at the traffic lights. You'll see a big park.
Tourist: Left at the traffic lights. Got it.
Local: Walk past the park and the museum is right there. You can't miss it.
Tourist: About how long will it take to walk?
Local: About 10 minutes. It's a nice walk!
Tourist: Great, thank you so much!
Local: You're welcome. Enjoy the museum!

Conversation 12 — Taking the Subway Travel

Traveler: Excuse me, which train goes to downtown?
Helper: You want the Blue Line. Platform 3.
Traveler: Is this the right station to buy tickets?
Helper: Yes, the machines are over there. Do you need help?
Traveler: Actually, yes. I've never used this subway before.
Helper: No problem! Press "Single Journey" then enter your destination.
Traveler: Like this? Central Station?
Helper: Exactly! Then tap your card or insert cash.
Traveler: Great, it worked! How many stops is it?
Helper: Four stops. About 12 minutes.
Traveler: Thank you so much! You're a lifesaver.
Helper: Happy to help! Have a great day.

Conversation 17 — Checking In at the Airport Travel

Agent: Good afternoon! Where are you flying today?
Passenger: To London, please.
Agent: Can I see your passport and booking reference?
Passenger: Here you go.
Agent: Thank you. How many bags are you checking in?
Passenger: Just one suitcase.
Agent: Could you put it on the scale, please? That's 22 kilos — just within the limit!
Passenger: Oh, that was close!
Agent: Do you have a seat preference? Window or aisle?
Passenger: Window, please.
Agent: I've got you in 24A. Here are your boarding pass and baggage tag.
Passenger: What time is boarding?
Agent: Boarding starts at 3:15. Gate B7. Have a pleasant flight!

Conversation 18 — At a Hotel Travel

Receptionist: Good evening! Welcome to The Grand Hotel.
Guest: Thank you! I have a reservation. The name is Williams.
Receptionist: Let me check. Yes! A double room for 3 nights. Is that correct?
Guest: That's right.
Receptionist: Excellent. Can I have your ID and a credit card for the deposit?
Guest: Sure. Here's my passport.
Receptionist: Thank you. Your room is 412 on the 4th floor. Here are your key cards.
Guest: Great. Does the room have WiFi?
Receptionist: Yes, complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel. The password is on the card.
Guest: What time is breakfast?
Receptionist: Breakfast is served from 7 to 10 AM in the dining room on the 2nd floor.
Guest: Perfect. Is there a gym?
Receptionist: Yes, on the 6th floor. Open 24 hours.
Guest: Wonderful. Thank you!

Work & Office

Conversation 13 — First Day at Work Work

Rachel: Good morning! You must be the new employee.
James: Yes, hi! I'm James. I start today.
Rachel: Welcome, James! I'm Rachel, the team manager.
James: Great to meet you, Rachel.
Rachel: Let me show you around the office first.
James: Thank you. I'm a little nervous, honestly.
Rachel: Don't worry, everyone is very friendly here.
James: That's good to hear. What time does the day usually start?
Rachel: We start at 9 and finish at 5:30. We have a one-hour lunch break.
James: That sounds good. Where do people usually eat lunch?
Rachel: Some people bring food, others go to the café downstairs.
James: Perfect. I have a lot to learn!
Rachel: You'll be fine. Let me introduce you to the team.

Conversation 14 — In a Meeting Work

Manager: Okay everyone, let's get started. First item on the agenda — the new project.
Team member: Before we start, can everyone hear me okay?
Manager: Yes, loud and clear. So, where are we with the project timeline?
Developer: We're on track for the most part. The design is done, and we start development next week.
Manager: Great! Any concerns?
Team member: I just want to flag that we might need extra resources in week 3.
Manager: Good point. Can you send me a breakdown after the meeting?
Team member: Sure, no problem.
Manager: Any other updates?
Developer: The client asked for a progress report by Friday.
Manager: I'll handle that. Thanks everyone. Let's wrap up.

Health

Conversation 15 — At the Doctor's Office Health

Doctor: Good morning. How can I help you today?
Patient: Hi, I haven't been feeling well for a few days.
Doctor: I'm sorry to hear that. What are your symptoms?
Patient: I have a sore throat, a headache, and I feel tired all the time.
Doctor: Do you have a fever?
Patient: I think so. I felt hot last night.
Doctor: Let me take your temperature. Yes, you have a slight fever — 38.2 degrees.
Patient: Is it serious?
Doctor: It looks like a common cold or mild flu. I'll prescribe some medicine.
Patient: Should I stay home from work?
Doctor: Yes, I recommend resting for 2–3 days. Drink plenty of water.
Patient: Okay. When should I come back?
Doctor: If you don't feel better in 5 days, come back immediately.

Conversation 16 — At the Pharmacy Health

Customer: Hi, I have a prescription here.
Pharmacist: Of course. Let me take a look. Okay, I'll get this ready for you.
Customer: Thank you. How long will it take?
Pharmacist: Just about 5 minutes. Do you have any allergies?
Customer: I'm allergic to penicillin.
Pharmacist: Good to know. This medicine doesn't contain it, so you're fine.
Customer: Great. How should I take it?
Pharmacist: Take one tablet twice a day — morning and night. Always with food.
Customer: For how many days?
Pharmacist: Seven days. Make sure you finish the full course.
Customer: Understood. Thank you!
Pharmacist: Feel better soon!

Plans, Hobbies & Interests

Conversation 19 — Making Weekend Plans Social

A: Hey, what are you doing this weekend?
B: Nothing much. Why, what's up?
A: A few of us are going hiking on Saturday. Want to come?
B: That sounds fun! Where are you going?
A: Green Valley Trail. It takes about 3 hours.
B: I've never been hiking before. Is it difficult?
A: Not at all for beginners. The trail is easy and the view is beautiful.
B: I'm in! What time are we leaving?
A: We're meeting at the parking lot at 8 AM.
B: Should I bring anything?
A: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks. That's all!
B: Easy enough. I'm excited!
A: It'll be a great day. See you Saturday!

Conversation 20 — Canceling Plans Social

A: Hey, I'm so sorry but I have to cancel tonight.
B: Oh no! What happened?
A: My boss just gave me a project that's due tomorrow morning.
B: That's stressful. Don't worry about it.
A: I feel really bad. We've been planning this for weeks.
B: Honestly, it's fine. Work comes first. Can we reschedule?
A: Absolutely! How about next Friday?
B: Next Friday works perfectly for me.
A: I'll book the restaurant again. Same place?
B: Yes, I loved that place. You better not cancel again though!
A: Ha! I promise. Thanks for understanding.

Conversation 21 — On the Phone Daily Life

A: Hello? B: Hi, is this the City Library?
A: Yes, it is! How can I help you?
B: I'd like to know what time you close today.
A: We close at 8 PM on weekdays.
B: And are you open on Sundays?
A: Yes, we're open Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
B: Great. I also wanted to ask — can I renew my books over the phone?
A: Yes, you can! I just need your library card number.
B: It's 47823.
A: Thank you. Which books would you like to renew?
B: I have two. "Learning Spanish" and "The Great Gatsby."
A: Both renewed! They're due back in 3 weeks.
B: Perfect. Thank you so much!

Conversation 22 — Tech Support Daily Life

Dan: Hi, thanks for calling TechHelp. My name is Dan. How can I assist you?
Caller: Hi Dan. My laptop keeps shutting down randomly and I don't know why.
Dan: I'm sorry to hear that. How old is the laptop?
Caller: About two years old.
Dan: Has this been happening recently, or for a long time?
Caller: It started about a week ago.
Dan: It might be overheating. Is the bottom of the laptop very hot?
Caller: Yes, actually! It gets really hot.
Dan: Try cleaning the vents with compressed air. Also, make sure it's on a hard surface, not a pillow or blanket.
Caller: Oh, I always use it on my bed!
Dan: That blocks the airflow. Try using it on a desk.
Caller: Okay, I'll try that. What if it keeps happening?
Dan: Then bring it in and we can run a full diagnostic for you.

Conversation 23 — Talking About Weather Social

A: Can you believe this weather? It's freezing!
B: I know! I wasn't expecting it to be this cold in April.
A: Did you see the forecast? It might snow tomorrow.
B: Really? That's unusual for this time of year.
A: I love snow, but not in April. I already put my winter coat away!
B: Me too! I had to dig it out this morning.
A: Do you prefer hot or cold weather?
B: Definitely warm. I love summer. You?
A: Same! Give me sunshine and the beach any day.
B: Hopefully this cold spell passes soon.
A: Fingers crossed!

Conversation 24 — Small Talk at a Party Social

A: So, what do you do for work?
B: I'm a graphic designer. What about you?
A: I'm a nurse. Do you work for a company or freelance?
B: Both, actually! I have a part-time job and freelance on the side.
A: That sounds busy!
B: It is, but I enjoy it. What's it like being a nurse?
A: It's tough, but very rewarding. No two days are the same.
B: That sounds exciting. Have you been a nurse for long?
A: About six years now. Do you enjoy graphic design?
B: I love it! Turning ideas into visuals is so satisfying.
A: I can imagine. Do you design anything specific?
B: Mostly logos and brand identities. Here, let me show you some work on my phone!

Conversation 25 — Talking About School Education

A: What are you studying?
B: I'm studying computer science. It's my second year.
A: That's great! Is it difficult?
B: Very! But I enjoy it. Math and coding all day.
A: Do you want to work in tech after you graduate?
B: Yes, I want to be a software developer. What about you?
A: I'm studying business management.
B: Cool! What do you want to do with it?
A: I want to start my own company one day.
B: Really? What kind of company?
A: Something in e-commerce. I love the idea of building something from scratch.
B: That's really inspiring. I might need you as a client when you're rich and famous!
A: Ha! Deal!

Conversation 26 — Talking About Hobbies Social

A: What do you like to do in your free time?
B: I love painting. It's very relaxing.
A: That's cool! What do you paint?
B: Mostly landscapes — mountains, beaches, forests. What about you?
A: I play guitar. I've been playing for about 5 years.
B: Wow, that's impressive! Do you play for fun or perform?
A: Just for fun. I play at home when I want to unwind.
B: We should combine our talents! You play, I'll paint the scene!
A: Ha! That would be awesome. Do you sell your paintings?
B: Sometimes, at local markets. It's not a lot of money, but it's fun.
A: I think that's great. Doing what you love and earning from it!

Conversation 27 — Talking About Sports Social

A: Do you follow any sports?
B: Yes! I'm a huge soccer fan. Do you?
A: I love basketball. I used to play in college.
B: Really? Do you still play?
A: Just casually, with friends on weekends. What team do you support?
B: I support Barcelona. You?
A: I'm a big Lakers fan.
B: Did you watch the game last night?
A: I missed it! What happened?
B: It was an incredible match. They scored in the last minute!
A: No way! I need to watch the replay.
B: Definitely worth it. Best game of the season so far.

Conversation 28 — At the Bank Daily Life

Teller: Good morning! How can I help you today?
Customer: Hi, I'd like to open a savings account.
Teller: Of course! Do you already have an account with us?
Customer: Yes, I have a checking account.
Teller: Great, that makes it easier. Can I have your ID, please?
Customer: Here's my passport.
Teller: Thank you. With a savings account, you earn 2.5% interest per year.
Customer: That sounds good. Is there a minimum balance?
Teller: Yes, $500 to open the account.
Customer: That's fine. I'd like to transfer $1,000 from my checking account.
Teller: Perfect. I'll set that up now. Would you also like online banking access?
Customer: Yes, please. That would be very convenient.
Teller: All done! Your account is ready. Here's your account number.

Conversation 29 — Checking In on a Friend Social

A: Hey, you look a bit down today. Are you okay?
B: Honestly? Not really. I've been stressed lately.
A: I'm sorry. What's going on?
B: Work has been overwhelming. I feel like I can never catch up.
A: I know that feeling. Is there anything I can do to help?
B: Just talking about it helps, actually. Thanks for asking.
A: Of course. Have you been sleeping okay?
B: Not great. I keep waking up in the middle of the night.
A: That makes everything harder. Maybe try to take a break this weekend.
B: You're right. I need to step back and breathe.
A: Even a short walk or a movie can reset your mind.
B: That's a good idea. Want to grab lunch this week?
A: Absolutely. How about Thursday?
B: Perfect. I'll look forward to it. Thanks for checking in.

Conversation 30 — Sharing a Recipe Daily Life

A: Something smells incredible! What are you making?
B: Tomato soup! From scratch. Want some?
A: Yes please! How do you make it?
B: It's simple. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then add fresh tomatoes.
A: What else?
B: Vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and a little sugar to balance the acidity.
A: Sugar? That's interesting.
B: Trust me, it makes a big difference. Then you blend it all together.
A: How long does it take?
B: About 30 minutes. Really easy!
A: I'm definitely trying this at home. Can I have the full recipe?
B: I'll write it down for you. And fresh basil on top — don't skip that part!
A: Got it. This is delicious, by the way!

Conversation 31 — Viewing an Apartment Daily Life

Landlord: Welcome! Come on in. This is the apartment.
Visitor: Thank you! Wow, it's bigger than I expected.
Landlord: It's a two-bedroom, one bathroom. About 800 square feet.
Visitor: I love the natural light! What floor is this?
Landlord: The 4th floor. There's an elevator too.
Visitor: Great. Is the kitchen fully equipped?
Landlord: Yes — fridge, oven, dishwasher, and microwave all included.
Visitor: What about laundry?
Landlord: There's a shared laundry room in the basement. Very convenient.
Visitor: What's the monthly rent?
Landlord: $1,400 a month, utilities not included.
Visitor: Are pets allowed? I have a small dog.
Landlord: Yes, small dogs are fine. There's a $200 pet deposit.
Visitor: That works for me. I really like this place!

Conversation 32 — Talking About the Environment Education

A: Did you read about the new recycling program in the city?
B: Yes! I think it's a great idea. We really need to do more.
A: I agree. I've started composting at home.
B: Really? I've been thinking about that. Is it hard?
A: Not at all. You just separate food scraps and garden waste.
B: Does it smell bad?
A: If you do it right, no. There are easy starter kits online.
B: I might try it. Every little bit helps, right?
A: Exactly. I also started bringing reusable bags to the supermarket.
B: Same! I stopped buying plastic water bottles too.
A: Small changes, big impact. I wish more people thought this way.
B: Things are slowly changing. At least people are talking about it more.

Learning & Motivation

Conversation 33 — Tips for Learning English Education

A: How did you get so good at English? It's your third language!
B: Thank you! Lots of practice. And I really enjoy it.
A: What helped you the most?
B: Watching TV shows and movies in English — without subtitles.
A: That sounds hard!
B: At first, yes! But your ears get used to it quickly.
A: Did you take classes?
B: Yes, for two years. But self-study helped just as much.
A: What do you mean by self-study?
B: Reading books, writing in a journal, speaking to myself in English.
A: Speaking to yourself? Does that actually work?
B: Yes! It builds confidence. You practice without the fear of making mistakes.
A: That's genius. I'm going to start doing that.
B: Also, don't be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone does. It's how you learn!

Conversation 34 — Asking to Repeat and Clarify Education

A: Could you say that again? I didn't catch it.
B: Of course! I said the meeting starts at half past two.
A: Sorry, half past two? What does that mean exactly?
B: It means 2:30.
A: Ah, I see! I'm still getting used to telling time in English.
B: No worries. Another way to say it is "two thirty."
A: That's much clearer. And "a quarter to three" means?
B: 2:45. A quarter before three o'clock.
A: This is confusing but interesting!
B: It becomes natural after a while. Just keep practicing!
A: Thank you for being patient with me.
B: Always! Questions mean you're learning.

Conversation 35 — Saying Goodbye Social

A: Well, it was so nice seeing you today!

B: You too! We should do this more often.

A: Definitely. Let's not wait another 6 months!

B: Ha! Agreed. I'll text you next week.

A: Perfect. Say hi to your family for me!

B: Will do. Give my love to Mark.

A: I will. Safe trip home!

B: Thanks! Take care!

Conversation 36 — Motivational Ending Education

A: I'm starting to feel like my English is improving!

B: That's because it is! I can hear the difference from when we first met.

A: Really? That means so much to hear.

B: You never give up. That's the most important thing.

A: Some days feel really hard though.

B: Everyone has those days. The key is to keep going.

A: What advice would you give to someone just starting to learn?

B: Be patient with yourself. Celebrate small wins. And speak as much as possible.

A: Don't be afraid of making mistakes?

B: Exactly! Mistakes are just steps toward fluency.

A: I'll remember that. Thank you!

B: Keep going — you're doing amazing!

Part 2: Vocabulary List (30 Key Words)

Social & Greetings

Shopping & Restaurants

Travel & Transport

Work & Office

Health

Daily Life & Other

Want more free lessons like this?

Subscribe to our YouTube channel and get a new lesson every week — with transcript, vocabulary, and exercises on our website.

Subscribe — English in Minute