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Conversation Advance · Module 15 · Unit 72

Daily Routine at Work

Pre C2 Proficient

Learning Objectives

Today, you will explore the daily routine at work and discover useful words and expressions for everyday situations.

Discussion

Direction: Answer these questions.
  1. What is the first thing you do when you arrive at work?
  2. Do you think having a set routine helps you climb the ladder faster?
  3. Have you ever had a gig that required a very strict schedule?

New Words & Expressions

Direction: Listen and repeat these words with your teacher.

  • Delegation

    noun

    /ˌdelɪˈɡeɪʃən/

    Meaning:The act of giving tasks to other people.

    Effective delegation is key to managing a team.

    Real Life Tip:

    Crucial management skill.

  • Deadline

    noun

    /ˈdedlaɪn/

    Meaning:The latest time or date by which something must be completed.

    I am working hard to meet my project deadline.

    Real Life Tip:

    Source of common workplace stress.

  • Burn through

    phrasal verb

    /bɜːrn θruː/

    Meaning:To use up something very quickly.

    I burn through emails in the morning to get them out of the way.

    Real Life Tip:

    Implies speed and high volume.

  • Clock in

    phrasal verb

    /klɒk ɪn/

    Meaning:To record the time you start work.

    I always clock in at eight o'clock sharp.

    Real Life Tip:

    Traditional way of tracking hours.

  • 9-to-5

    idiom

    /naɪn tuː faɪv/

    Meaning:A standard workday.

    I am tired of the 9-to-5 life; I want more freedom.

    Real Life Tip:

    Refers to conventional office hours.

Conversation

Direction:

  • Listen carefully as your teacher reads the conversation aloud.
  • Role-play the conversation with your teacher
James and Sarah compare their daily office routines.
  • James
    My 9-to-5 is so repetitive. I clock in, answer emails, and repeat.
  • Sarah
    At least you have structure. I am always burning through tasks to meet a deadline.
  • James
    That sounds stressful. Have you tried delegating some work?

Q&A

Direction: Answer the questions based on the conversation.
  1. Why is James bored with his 9-to-5?
  2. What does Sarah struggle with at work?
  3. What advice does James give Sarah?

Exercise

Direction: Choose the correct answer to complete each sentence, then read it aloud. Each question gives you 5 Points.

  1. What is delegation?

  2. What is a 9-to-5?

  3. I have to meet my ____.

  4. I ____ in at 9 AM.

  5. my / is / deadline / today

  6. I / 9-to-5 / hate / the

Ask Your Teacher

Direction: Ask your teacher these questions.
  1. Do you like your 9-to-5 or do you prefer flexible hours?
  2. How do you feel about delegation in your workplace?
  3. Do you often find yourself burning through tasks before a deadline?

Your Time To Speak

Direction: Answer using the language you have learned in this lesson. Talk about yourself!
  1. How can I manage my workload better?
  2. Is it possible to have a successful career without a strict 9-to-5?
  3. How do I delegate work without sounding bossy?
  4. What do I do if I cannot meet a deadline?
  5. Is it normal to feel burnt out by a daily routine?
  6. How do I stay focused when I clock in?
  7. What are the best tools for task management?
  8. How do I talk to my boss about my routine?
  9. Does burning through tasks affect the quality of work?
  10. How can I make my 9-to-5 more interesting?
Sarah
I try, but it is hard to find someone who does it as well as I do.
  • James
    That is the trap of management. You have to let go eventually.
  • Sarah
    I know. My boss keeps telling me to focus on the big picture.
  • James
    He is right. Maybe try setting a smaller deadline for yourself.
  • Sarah
    Good idea. I will try that tomorrow morning.