Lesson 3 -- Teds Day at School

 

Speaking English Like an American -- Lesson 3

Ted tells his parents he did poorly on his Chemistry test. They tell him he needs to get serious and study more.

Susan:   How was your day at school today, Ted?
Ted:      Bad. I had a Chemistry test, and I blew it.
Susan:   Maybe if you didn't cut class so often, you'd do better.
Bob:     That's right, son. Stop slacking off and start hitting the books.
Ted:      But I can't stand Chemistry class. Besides, it's a lost cause. That class is way over my head.
Susan:   You need to buckle down.
Ted:      When I'm a famous musician, people won't give a hoot about my knowledge of atoms and molecules.
Bob:     That's beside the point.
Susan:   We know you have your heart set on going to New York University.
Bob:      And you don't stand a chance of getting in there with such poor grades.

Idioms,

Beside the point – not relevant; not important

(to) blow something – to spoil or botch something

(to) buckle down – to start working seriously

Can’t stand – to hate

(to) cut class – to miss class without an excuse

Get real! – be serious or realistic about what’s going on

(to) have one’s heart set on – to really want something

(to) hit the books – to start studying

Lost cause – something hopeless

(to) not give a hoot – to not care about

Over one’s head – beyond one’s understanding

(to) slack off – to waste time

(to)stand a chance – to have the possibility of success