Reader 07
The Late Train
Four coworkers were traveling to another city for a training meeting. They planned to take the 8:15 train and arrive early enough to have breakfast near the meeting place. However, when they entered the station, they saw a long line at the ticket machine.
James looked at the station clock and said, “We’re cutting it close.”
“If we miss this train, the whole morning could get thrown off,” Mina replied. “The next train doesn’t leave for another hour.”
Omar checked the schedule on his phone while Kelly searched for another ticket machine. She found one near the other entrance, but several people were already waiting there too.
When the group finally reached the front of the line, an announcement came over the speaker. Their train would begin boarding in two minutes.
“We still have time if we move quickly,” Kelly said.
They bought their tickets and hurried toward the platform. As they reached the train, the doors opened. They stepped inside and found four seats together.
James sat down and took a deep breath. “That was too close for comfort.”
Mina smiled. “Next time, we should buy our tickets before we come to the station.”
Everyone agreed. They had made the train, but they did not want to begin another trip that way.
SPEAK
Answer in complete sentences.
Why were the four coworkers traveling to another city?
What caused the group to worry about missing the train?
What did Omar and Kelly do while they were waiting?
How did the group manage to catch the train?
What could they do differently before their next trip?
WRITE
Write 3 full sentences to explain:
What happened after the coworkers arrived at the train station?
LISTEN
Listen to the recording and respond in complete sentences.
What did the speaker say?
Do you agree or disagree with the speaker? Why?
