The Lost Phone
Featured Story
The Lost Phone 📱
Javier has a major problem: his phone is missing.
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🟢 Beginner:
Javier cannot find his phone.
"Where is my phone?" he asks.
He looks in his bag. He looks in his pocket.
"Ah! It was in my hand!" he laughs.
Expression: Right under your nose (something is very close but not noticed)
• Phone (noun, a device used to make calls or send messages)
• Pocket (noun, a small fabric pouch in clothing for carrying things)
• Bag (noun, an object used to carry things)
• Laugh (verb, to make a sound when something is funny)
• Find (verb, to discover something that was lost)
Example:
Emma searched the whole house for her glasses. She checked the table, the kitchen, and even the bathroom. "I can’t find them anywhere!" she said. Her brother looked at her and laughed. "Emma, they’re right under your nose!" he said, pointing at the glasses on top of her head.
🟡 Intermediate:
Javier was running late for a meeting when he realized his phone was missing.
He searched his bag and jacket pockets.
"I swear I just had it!" he muttered.
His friend pointed at his hand. "Javier, it’s right there!"
Javier groaned. "I need more sleep!"
Expression: Lose your mind (to feel very confused or forgetful)
• Running late (phrase, not being on time)
• Realize (verb, to suddenly understand something)
• Mutter (verb, to speak in a quiet, unclear voice)
• Swear (verb, to promise or to use strong language)
• Groan (verb, to make a low sound when frustrated or in pain)
Example:
Sophie opened the fridge and frowned. "Where is the milk? I just bought it!" she said.
Her roommate pointed at the counter. "Uh… it’s right there."
Sophie sighed. "Ugh, I think I’m losing my mind!"
🔴 Advanced:
Javier sprinted through the airport, panic rising.
"Where’s my phone?" He retraced his steps, checking the café, the security line, and the restroom.
He finally asked an airport worker, "Has anyone turned in a phone?"
The worker smiled and held up a device. "This one? Someone found it at the coffee shop."
Javier exhaled. "I’m never putting it down again."
Expression: A close call (a situation where something bad almost happened but was avoided at the last moment)
• Retrace (verb, to go back over your steps to find something)
• Panic (verb, to feel sudden fear or anxiety)
• Security (noun, protection against danger or loss)
• Exhale (verb, to breathe out air)
• Device (noun, an electronic or mechanical tool)
Example:
Lena stepped off the sidewalk, ready to cross the street. Suddenly, a car sped past, missing her by just a few centimeters. She jumped back, her heart pounding.
Her friend grabbed her arm. "That was a close call! Be careful!"
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