1) Read each expression out loud one by one.

— It’s my job.

— I’m new at this.

— I know this like the cover of a book.

— This is a first for me.

— I know this inside and out.

— This is all so new to me.

— I know all the tricks of the trade.

— I’m sorry, I’ve never done this before.

2) Play the roles of Employer and Barbara in the following dialogue after reading it loud, paying attention to the underlined expressions.

Employer:From your résumé, I can see that you did a wonderful job at college studying.

Barbara: Thank you.

Employer:But do you have any work experience? Think you have what it takes to make a success of this job?

Barbara: To be honest, this is a first for me. But I’ve learned so much at college. I know with just a little hands-on experience I’ll be off and running. You won’t regret hiring me.

Employer:But this is all so new to you. How can I be sure of your competence and ability?

Barbara:For sure my confidence and dedication will help me fast pick up the practical skills needed. I’m a very quick learner.

Employer:You sound so self-assured. Very convincing.

Barbara:Thanks! I know I have what it takes. In the drop of a hat I’ll master all the tricks of the trade. You’ll soon see, I promise.

*Tell class there is no substitute for experience. The following serves as an example.

Topic: No Substitute for Experience

You know what I mean when I say that education pays. Education means the whole world to us. A person without an education is a person without a future. That’s why we are here at college.

Yet to succeed, education is not entirely enough. It won’t guarantee success. The key is putting your education to work. Success has to do with combining theory with practice. That’s what’s called experience.

The real world is complex. It’s full of problems waiting to be solved. To do so requires us to put our hands to each problem. There is no substitute for experience. You have to acquire it. You have to earn it. Then you can make something of yourself.