Learning English

Finding somewhere to live

Everyone has to live with new people at some point in their lives, perhaps because of marriage, maybe when you’re a student, or perhaps you’re living away from home because of work. In this unit we look at the ups and downs of sharing living space with other people.

Maybe you'd like to move into a place with a living room like this? 

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Learn how to talk about where you live

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Read the text and complete the activity

Here are the thoughts of three people as they’re about to move into a new home. Sophie is going to live with her husband, Dave, in the same house as his parents. Ben’s starting university soon and is looking for somewhere to live with his course mates. Lana has just started work in a new town and can only afford to rent a room in shared accommodation.

Question: Can you work out who is happiest with their situation?

Sophie
It’s a pity, but we just don’t have the money for our own place. Dave’s mum is a nice person, but I’m sure some compromises will be necessary. Hopefully we’ll all get on with each other and there won’t be any conflicts.

Ben
It’s actually quite exciting. I’m moving out of my parents’ place next week. I haven’t got anywhere to stay yet – the university help you with that. I know a few lads going to study at the same place, so we might be able to find a house we can rent together. I’m not looking forward to getting up early for lectures.

Lana
My boss actually set up a flat share for me and some of the other girls working here. I don’t know anything about it yet. I think some people were living there before, so it might need a bit of tidying up before we can move in. I’m a little bit worried but I’m sure it will be fine.

Answer: So who seems to be the happiest? It was Ben. He was quite excited about moving. Sophie said it was a pity they can’t afford their own place, and Lana said she’s a little bit worried.

To do

How much did you understand about Sophie, Ben and Lana's situations? Have a go at this quiz and find out!

Next

Activity 1 is done! We hope you’ve picked up some new bits and pieces of vocabulary there. Go on to the next activity to learn some new words and find out what it takes to be the perfect flatmate!