Everyone laughed. “That’s funny!” said Mia.

Here’s a short story based on the English Time 5 (Audio CD2) theme, using vocabulary and situations appropriate for that level (around ages 9–12, learning past tense, future plans, comparisons, and daily routines).

First, Leo did his magic trick again. This time, the coin came back! “Ta-da!” Mia sang her song perfectly. Ben finally told his joke without laughing first: “Why did the music teacher carry a ladder? To reach the high notes!”

Leo went first. He made a red scarf disappear. The audience clapped. Mia sang “Summer Sunshine.” Her voice was loud and clear. Everyone cheered. Ben walked to the microphone. His hands were shaking. He told the ladder joke. For one second, nobody laughed. Then — everyone laughed! Ben smiled.