Asking about Bus/Train Routes or Schedules
A passenger needs to find out which bus/train to take to their destination or when the next service is arriving.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
bus line
A bus line refers to a specific route or number of a bus service, like 'line 14'. Use it when asking which bus to take to a place.
directly
Directly means straight to the destination without stops or changes. It's useful for confirming if a transport goes right to your spot.
peak hours
Peak hours are busy times, like morning or evening rush hours when more people travel. Opposite is off-peak, which is quieter times.
off-peak
Off-peak means less busy times, when services might run less often. Use this to understand bus or train schedules better.
exact change
Exact change means paying the precise amount of money needed, no more or less, because drivers can't give change back.
fare
Fare is the cost or price to pay for using public transport like a bus or train ticket.
transit card
A transit card is a special card for paying public transport fares, like a bus pass that you tap to pay.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I'm trying to get to the City Museum. Which bus line goes there?
This is a polite way to start asking for directions. 'Excuse me' gets attention, and 'which bus line goes there?' asks for the right route. Use it when you need help finding transport to a place.
The number 14 bus will take you directly there. It stops right outside.
This gives clear directions. 'Will take you directly' means no transfers needed. Useful for helping others or understanding responses about routes.
Do you know how often the number 14 bus runs?
This asks about frequency using 'how often' for schedule details. It's practical for planning travel and shows question structure with 'do you know'.
During peak hours, it's usually every 10-15 minutes. Off-peak, maybe every 20-25.
This explains schedules with time ranges. 'Every X minutes' is a common pattern for frequency. Use it to describe or ask about bus/train timings.
Do I need exact change for the fare, or can I use a card?
This is an alternative question ('or') asking about payment options. Helpful for checking how to pay, and teaches 'do I need' for requirements.
You can use a transit card if you have one, or you can pay with exact change.
This offers choices with 'if you have one' condition. It's useful for explaining payment methods in transit situations.
Got it. Thanks so much for your help!
'Got it' means I understand, a casual way to acknowledge info. Followed by thanks, it's polite to end conversations. Use after receiving helpful advice.