Nan's story

Do you have a good memory, Rob? Can you remember people's names, or where you left your car kes?Well, I can remember people's faces, but I have a terrible memorey for names. And sometimes I'll be eagerly reading a book, but then a week later I can't remember a single thing about it!Well, you're not alone. Many people find it hard to remember things they've read or learned while other, sometimes ..

These days, our lives are filled with devices that were inimaginable only a few years ago- the sorts of things you read about in science- fiction novels, but never thought you'd own. Yes, like those robots that vaccum your floor or voice-activated lights- we call many of these things 'smart tech'.But while they can help with the little tasks at home, some people are worndering whether they can h..

Do you think robots could ever become intelligent, Sam?Well, if you believe Hollywood movies like 'Robocop', robots will grow more powerful than their human creators and take control. You've been watching too many sci-fi movies, Sam! But seriously- do you think robots will ever be able to think or drea? Could they fall in love or create art?It's hard to say, but because of the huge advances in a..

For centuries the relationship between humans and bats has been complex. In some cultures, bats are depicted as vampires, associated with Halloween, witches and dark, scary places. In others, they are considered messengers of the gods. Bats paly an important part in stories and myths from around the world. And a lare illuminated 'bat signal' shining in the night sky can mean only one thing- a ca..

Neil, would you describe yourself as 'numbers person'?If you mean, am I someone who understands numbers is good as using them and interpreting data, then no!OK, so, maybe like me, you weren't good at maths at school?No, I wasn't. Algebra, geometry, time tables- it was all very confusing. We're not alone, Neil, but the fear of numbers might just be in our heads, and might have enough number knowl..

Are you feeling well, Sam? No headache or sore throat?No, I feel fine, thanks, Neil. Why do you ask?Well, I've been reading some inspirational stories about the doctors and nurses fighting Covid. When I was a boy, I always dreamed of becoming a doctor. Ah, I see. Have you ever been in hospital?Yes, I have, and I remember the nurse's bedside manner- you kno, the kind and caring way that doctors a..

When it comes to sport, there's something for everyone. Do you play a sport, Georgina?I used to play in a netball team years ago. Now I go jogging and I enjoy swimming too. Yes, I go jogging sometimes and I play football, although I'm no Ronaldo!But some sports, the so- called 'full contact' sports like rugby. American football and boxing are much more dangerous. Now, the truth about the long-te..

This is the programme where we hope to add some color to your life by talking about an interesting subject and teaching you some useful vocabulary. And color is what we're talking about today. What's your favorite color, Neil?Oh, I like green- a fresh, bold color, that reminds me a natue- it can have a calming effect, and you?It's got to be blue- it reminds me of the sea, the sky- and holidays, ..

Neil, I'm going to tell you a joke. OK, come on. Which part of learning  the English language are boxers best at?Which part of English are boxers best at? I don't know. Punch- uation (punctuation)That's actually quite funny.Do you really think so?I do, yes. Well, I'm glad I made you laugh. But you might not thank me for it after the programme. Why's that?Because a paper publishee by the British ..

Do you think there are big differences between men and women, Neil?Apart from the old stereotypes we sometimes hear, like- that men can't express semotions...I suppose biologically there are differences, Rob. I mean, men and women's bodies are different. Right, and it takes both- a man and a woman- to make a baby. Well, that's true- in humans anyway. But in this programme, we'll be hearing about..