# Cross-Country Foundations: An A1 Journey Across the USA **Language:** English **CEFR Level:** A1 > Listen in as Maya and Jack talk about exploring all 50 US states on a cross-country road trip in real, everyday English. By the end of this course their conversation will feel easy to follow, and you'll be ready to join in. **Setting:** Maya and Jack are driving across the United States in a shared camper van on a 28-day road trip to visit iconic landmarks and small towns. As long-time friends exploring the country together, they chat daily about their route, food choices, local weather, and observations along the highway. ## Lessons ### 1. Introducing Ourselves and Saying Hello Maya greets Jack and asks if he is ready, and Jack explains that he needs coffee. ### 2. Stating Ages and Places of Origin Maya offers Jack coffee from the van, and Jack asks if it is hot. ### 3. Naming Family Members and Relatives Jack thanks Maya for the coffee and compliments its taste, while Maya shares where it came from. ### 4. Identifying Colors and City Objects Jack asks Maya if the van and her bags are ready, and both confirm where their luggage is. ### 5. Counting Numbers and Basic Quantities Maya compares Jack's two bags to her four bags and explains that she packed cameras. ### 6. Describing Basic Shapes and Appearances Maya tells Jack she brought three cameras because she takes many photos. ### 7. Expressing Simple Feelings and Weather Maya asks Jack for the travel map and comments on its large size. ### 8. Listing Everyday Objects and Clothing Maya asks Jack how many days and states their road trip will cover. ### 9. Discussing Daily Routines and Times Maya expresses surprise at visiting fifty states and Washington, D.C. in twenty-eight days. ### 10. Naming Animals and Nature Words Maya asks to take the first shift driving, but Jack explains that he wants to drive first. ### 11. Expressing Likes, Dislikes, and Food Maya agrees to drive tomorrow instead and asks Jack where their first stop will be. ### 12. Describing Physical Appearances and Sizes Maya asks how far the Grand Canyon is, and Jack clarifies that it will take about eight hours today. ### 13. Talking About Basic Jobs and Workplaces Maya confirms that the Grand Canyon is in Arizona and plans to take photos with all three cameras. ### 14. Giving Simple Directions and Locations Maya asks about the weather forecast, and Jack explains that it will be sunny and very hot in the desert. ### 15. Discussing Weather and Winter Clothing Maya and Jack realize six bottles of water are not enough and agree to stop to buy more. ### 16. Counting Higher Numbers and Farm Animals Maya mentions she is hungry, and she and Jack agree to stop at a diner on the highway. ### 17. Stating Days of the Week and Schedules Maya talks about her love for diners and pancakes, while Jack reacts with hesitation. ### 18. Describing Seasons and Weather Changes Maya learns Jack dislikes pancakes, and Jack says he wants eggs and toast instead. ### 19. Talking About Size, Distance, and Space Jack asks for more coffee for the long drive before Maya gets interrupted by her ringing phone. ### 20. Naming Wild Animals and Habitats Maya answers a call from her brother and explains to Jack that he calls every Saturday. ### 21. Describing Nature Colors and Landscapes Maya passes along greetings from her brother, and she and Jack talk about their ages. ### 22. Expressing Physical Feelings and States Maya finishes her phone call with her brother in Seattle and asks Jack about his family. ### 23. Discussing Food, Drinks, and Temperatures Maya asks Jack about his family in Boston, and Jack mentions his two brothers and three sisters. ### 24. Talking About Simple Future Plans and Dreams Maya suggests visiting Jack's family during the trip, and Jack checks the map to plan it for day fifteen. ### 25. Describing Nature and Present Actions Jack mentions his mom loves visitors, and Maya asks if she makes pancakes. ### 26. Discussing Hobbies, Drinks, and Preferences Jack goes through a final checklist with Maya to ensure she has her coffee and cameras. ### 27. Using Basic Survival and Help Words Jack and Maya celebrate departing on day one and name breakfast as their first stop. ### 28. Using Polite Phrases and Saying Goodbye Jack and Maya review their next stops and say goodbye to Los Angeles as they head out.