The book provides beginning level ESL students opportunities for extended, yet structured speaking and discussion. High interest topics encourage students, even those with little knowledge of current events or Western culture, to take part in a variety of activities and tasks. It presents classroom ready, student-friendly materials; draws upon a range of speaking strategies, including discussions, short talks, interviews, problem solving and pairwork; offers a clear format with simple vocabulary; taps students` personal experience. A teacher’s guide is included in the text.