Relocating to a New Country: A Comprehensive Guide
Unit 1: Relocation
California vs. Other US States
California stands out for its diversity and liberal policies, often contrasting with other US states. Its unique political landscape and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular destination for people from all walks of life.
Preparing for a Move to Chile
| While in Chile | During Your First Two Weeks |
|---|---|
| – Open an international bank account – Prepare a study plan – Find a place to live – Get an international driving license | – Organize your time – Meet new people – Buy necessary furniture – Rent an apartment – Get a new phone |
Opening a Bank Account
- Choose a banking institution.
- Select the type of account (checking/saving).
- Save enough money for the initial deposit.
- Consider opening an account online or visiting a branch.
- Provide necessary information and proof of residence.
- Review the account agreement and associated fees.
- Make your first deposit.
- Wait for your checks and debit card.
Getting a Cell Phone
- Assess your needs and usage patterns.
- Research service carriers and plans.
- Consider a prepaid option.
- Identify essential features.
- Compare prices and read consumer reports.
- Check device compatibility with carriers.
Renting an Apartment
- Determine your budget based on monthly income.
- Establish criteria for your ideal apartment.
- Identify potential apartments that meet your criteria.
- Schedule visits to shortlisted apartments.
- Make a positive first impression on landlords or agents.
- Inspect for any problems (e.g., mold, pests, wear and tear).
- Inquire about the experiences of current tenants.
- Complete the rental application process.
- Review and sign the lease agreement.
Essential Vocabulary
- Suitcase Essentials: Underwear, toiletries, shoes, gadgets, socks, comb
- Packing Techniques: Folding, rolling, bundling
- Furniture: Bed, chest, stool, bookcase, wardrobe, shelf, rocking chair, sink, sofa
- Household Items: Table, vacuum cleaner, tap, bin, basin, washing machine, broom, mop and bucket, oven, power point, shower, lounge chair, cupboard, television, fan
- Grocery Shopping: Supermarket trolley, bread and cakes shelves, produce bags, meat section, butcher, drinks aisle
Home Decorating Tips
- Plastic Crate Shelf: Repurpose plastic crates as a modular shelving unit.
- Portable Spice Kit Organizer: Create a customized spice kit for travel or camping.
- Clear Plastic Cups for Cords: Organize and label cords using clear plastic cups.
- Plastic Container for Dice: Store dice and small game pieces in a container.
- Craft Supply Organizer: Build a cost-effective organizer for craft supplies.
- Ice Cube Trays for Office Supplies: Use ice cube trays to sort and store small office items.
- File Box for Schoolwork: Keep schoolwork and important documents organized in a labeled file box.
- Shoe Hangers for Video Game Accessories: Utilize shoe hangers to store video game controllers and accessories.
- Baskets and Totes: Maintain organization in any room with matching baskets or totes.
- Power Strip Organization: Conceal power strips and cords in a metal basket.
- Small Bathroom Organization: Maximize vertical space with a rope and basket system.
- Binders for Papers: Categorize and store papers in labeled binders.
- Mesh Hampers for Yarn: Keep yarn, needles, and knitting patterns organized in sectioned mesh hampers.
Across Cultures: Small Talk and Foreign Guests
- Conversation Starters: Hobbies, daily experiences, weekend plans
- Effective Communication: Active listening, showing genuine interest, avoiding sensitive topics, being mindful of cultural differences
Persuasive Language
- Use personal anecdotes and experiences.
- Present data and evidence to support claims.
- Address counterarguments and highlight the strengths of your position.
- Express opinions clearly and confidently.
Unit 2: Freedom Fighters
Victor Jara: A Symbol of Resistance
Victor Jara, a Chilean musician and activist, became a powerful symbol of the fight for human rights during Pinochet’s dictatorship. His music and unwavering commitment to social justice continue to inspire generations.
Education as a Catalyst for Change
- Advocating for free and accessible education.
- Empowering individuals to contribute to public education.
- Inspiring collective action for educational reform.
Gandhi vs. Mandela: Approaches to Freedom
| Gandhi | Mandela |
|---|---|
| – Non-violent protests – Symbolic gestures and moral principles | – Non-violent and violent resistance – Logical arguments and strategic resistance |
The Role of Politics in Society
- Politics provides structure and organization.
- It helps prevent conflicts and injustices.
- Effective governance promotes progress and development.
Harvey Milk: Champion of LGBTQ+ Rights
Harvey Milk, a pioneering gay rights activist, played a pivotal role in advancing LGBTQ+ equality in San Francisco and beyond. His legacy of tolerance and advocacy continues to shape the movement for LGBTQ+ rights.
Expressing Agreement
Synonyms for “agree”: concur, concede, share the same view, match, align with
Providing Examples
Phrases for introducing examples: For instance, this can be seen when, as illustrated by, as seen in, which is made apparent when, these include, particularly, especially
Emphatic Sentence Structures
- Using auxiliary verbs (do, did)
- Adding adverbs (not only, also, nor)
- Emphasizing specific elements (more important than, under no circumstance)
- Employing inversion (never had, rarely does, seldom has)
- Using time clauses (no sooner, hardly, scarcely)