This intermediate listening, note-taking, and discussion text will engage students through interviews and academic
lectures on stimulating topics within the field of American Studies. Topics include American government, race relations,
the history of U.S. immigration, and American values and culture. Each chapter begins with a warm-up activity,
then presents two or more informal interviews, and concludes with a two-part academic lecture. Exercises that accompany
the listenings develop important skills such as listening for main ideas, listening for specific information, and
making inferences. In preparation for the lectures, students practice note-taking skills such as using symbols
and abbreviations and organizing their notes. There are many opportunities for students to discuss content, express
their personal opinions, and make presentations to the class.