Vocabulary

The Dropout

Stuart dropped out of high school last year. Since then he had done a number of odd jobs such as washing cars, washing dishes and delivering newspapers to people’s homes. Each lasted several months.

Meanwhile, his friend Peter graduated from school this summer, and was going to start university in autumn.

The Goal

One day, they met each other in a park.

“Are you looking for another job?” Peter asked Stuart.
“No,” replied Stuart.
“What are you up to now?”
“Hmmm. I . . . I . . . I’ll be . . . attending a music academy! That’s right. I’m going to become a professional musician!”

The Music Academy

And so Stuart enrolled at the music academy. He took up the violin (something which he had played as child), but didn’t practice enough since he spent much of his time listening to rock music, going to discos and partying.

As a result, his performance lagged behind his classmates.

During a class rehearsal, the music instructor asked Stuart what his problem was.
“You are off key and out of tune,” said the instructor.
“Uh, well, the problem is this violin; it’s old and of low quality.
“Then buy a new, better one,” retorted the instructor.

The Phone Call

After class Stuart called his father, asking him for £1,500 so he could buy a classical violin, so he could succeed with his music course.

A week later, Stuart received a special delivery through the post.
“Please sing this form,” said the mailman.

He did and ran into his bedroom.

Opening the box, Stuart found . . . a very beautiful, expensive, classical violin!

Questions

1. Stuart was probably a brilliant, excellent student with straight A’s. True or false?

2. After leaving high school, did he attend university? Do you think he was a dedicated, hard worker?

3. What was Stuart goal? Do you think he had wanted to become a professional musician since he was a child?

4. He was a fantastic, talented violinist. Is this right or wrong? Why wasn’t he a good musician? Did he say this to the music instructor?

5. Did the instructor give Stuart any advice? What did he advise him? What did Stuart do?

6. What happened in the end?

7. Is there a twist or surprise ending? What does this mean?

A. Everyone from my class and grade graduated from high school. Yes or no?

B. What happens to people who did not finish high school?

C. Is there a music academy or conservatory in your city or country?

D. My city has a symphony orchestra. Have you attended their performances?

E. My friends and I would like to become professional musicians. Yes or no?

F. Children often ask their parents for money. Do you agree?