ESL Listening & Reading Practice: Sarah’s Healthy Glow Story
- Rose Sensei
- Nov 29
- 3 min read
Eating well isn’t just about staying healthy — it can also help us look and feel our best.
Today’s ESL lesson combines lifestyle, beauty, and everyday conversation in a short, friendly story between two women in their 30s.
Students can use it as listening or reading practice, learn new vocabulary, and answer a comprehension question at the end.
Perfect for beginner-high to intermediate adult learners!
ESL Listening & Reading Practice Story: “Sarah’s Secret Glow”
Sarah and Emily met at a quiet café after work, ready for a long overdue catch-up. As they settled in with their herbal teas, Emily suddenly leaned forward.
“Sarah, spill the tea—you’re glowing today! What’s your secret?”
Sarah laughed. “Honestly? I’ve been eating more veggies recently. Lots of greens—kale, spinach, peppers. I’ve been trying to add vegetables to every meal.”
Emily raised an eyebrow. “Just vegetables? Like salads?”
“Not only salads,” Sarah said. “Roasted veggies, green smoothies, stir-fries. And you know what? My skin looks clearer. I used to have breakouts, but now my face feels brighter and more radiant.”
Emily’s eyes widened. “No way! That’s amazing.”
“Believe me, Em,” Sarah smiled. “A veggie-rich diet really helps. I feel more energetic too. My immune system is stronger, and I don’t feel sluggish anymore.”
Emily nodded. “Maybe it’s time for me to overhaul my diet.”
Sarah lifted her cup. “Once you start eating more greens, you’ll feel like a whole new person. And veggies taste great if you cook them well.”
Emily laughed and held up her tea in a playful toast.
“Here’s to veggies! I guess I’ll be raiding the produce aisle tonight.”
They clinked their cups together, enjoying the warm, cosy moment — and the shared wisdom of two friends choosing healthier, happier lives.
📘 Vocabulary From the Story
Word / Expression | Meaning |
Glowing | Looking healthy and bright |
Spill the tea | Share news or gossip |
Greens | Green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach, etc.) |
Breakouts | Pimples or acne episodes |
Radiant | Bright, glowing |
Sluggish | Slow, tired, low-energy |
Overhaul | Make a big change or improvement |
Raiding the produce aisle | Excitedly shopping for fruits/vegetables |
🎧 Listening / Reading Comprehension Question
👉 What changes did Sarah notice in her skin after eating more vegetables?
(Students should listen or read carefully to find the exact answer.)
📝 Vocabulary Exercise
Match the words to the meanings:
Radiant
Greens
Sluggish
Overhaul
Breakouts
a) Feeling slow or tired
b) Bright and glowing
c) A big improvement or change
d) Episodes of acne
e) Leafy vegetables
💬 Teaching Tips (for teachers & self-learners)
Listen to the story first without reading.
Read it again and highlight new vocabulary.
🗣️ Discuss: Do you think food affects beauty and energy?
Try retelling the story with a partner.
👉 Want more stories like this?
Check out our ESL Reading & Listening Practice with Stories series.
📥 Download the free worksheet to practice vocabulary & comprehension.
🎧 Listen again without reading to challenge your listening skills.
🎙️Like this lesson? Subscribe for more English conversation practice!
👉Download your free worksheet here.
💬 Tell us in the comments: What vegetables do YOU eat every day?
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