Shared experiences in American Culture

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Today is September 11.  It is a significant date in American Culture because it was on this day in 2001 that planes were hijacked and flown into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon killing thousands of people. My thoughts are with the families of all those who were lost that day.  

Although it happened over 10 years ago most Americans, including myself, can tell you exactly what they were doing on that day.  The significant tragedy is burned into our collective memories and connects us through this shared experience. 

The Topic for this week here at Fast Food English is Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon.  This event is another one of those significant moments in American Culture and history that most Americans can tell you exactly what they were doing when it happened.  In this case, we shared our pride in American accomplishment not just with each other but with the world as we were all glued to our TV sets watching as Neil Armstrong stepped on to  the surface of the moon and uttered these famous words, "One small step for man, One giant leap for mankind."   


I found some great podcasts about Neil Armstrong for you this week.  Listening to podcasts is a great way to practice English.  So, if this is a topic you are interested in give these podcasts a try. You'll find the links in the show notes. 

The first one is from esl-library.com.  Because it is from an English as a Second Language site, the presenter is speaking slowly and clearly.  They don't use advanced vocabulary or slang. So, it's a good resource to improve your listening skills.   esl-library podcast

The second podcast is an interview with a writer who wrote a book called "First Man" about Neil Armstrong. It's a little bit harder but has a lot of interesting information.  And because it's an interview, you will get a chance to hear two people talking and asking questions.    "First Man" interview

I hope you will give these podcasts a try.  

Thanks for Listening.  This has been Cassie Brenn for fastfoodenglish.blogspot.com