A first-person account in English of one individual's experience of going to work, with most of the details focusing on the one-hour drive--useful for advanced beginners to learn everyday, conversational English about working life. Comprehension questions follow the text so you can check your understanding.
Going to work in the morning
My job is a long distance from my home, almost 50 miles away. I have to wake up early every morning, as I’m always in a rush. There’s never enough time for a relaxed breakfast. At exactly 6:00 AM, I get into my car and start the long drive.
I usually like driving on the highway more than in the city. During the morning rush hour, though, it’s not very enjoyable. The heavy traffic is a little bit annoying. So I always listen to my favorite classical music CD’s in the car – Chopin, Mozart, and Bach. That cheers me up a lot.
The drive to work takes about one hour. Going back home in the evening after work takes even longer, maybe around 70 minutes. Lately I’ve been thinking about trying to take the train to work instead of driving. That way, I could still listen to my music with headphones, and even read a novel at the same time.
Did you understand the text?
Please answer the following questions of understanding:
Question 1:
When does he wake up every morning?
a Late in the morning
b Early in the morning
c At exactly 6:00 AM
d After the morning rush hour
Question 2:
How is driving during the morning rush hour?
a It’s classical
b It’s relaxing
c Not very enjoyable
d Not as much fun as walking
Question 3:
Which kind of music CD’s does he enjoy listening to in the car?
a Jazz
b Disco
c Heavy metal
d Classical
Question 4:
How long might the evening drive back home take?
a Less than the drive in the morning
b Around 70 minutes
c 70 kilometers
d 50 minutes
Question 5:
What else does he think he could even do if he took a train to work?
a Sing songs
b Do crossword puzzles
c Write a book
d Read a novel
Please answer all questions about the text:
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