In this episode of the Vocaburger Podcast, Lucas and Mia explore the topic of visiting the doctor, focusing on common health vocabulary and how to use modal verbs like should, must, and could for giving advice. You’ll learn words like ache, symptom, appointment, medicine, and rest in context, and listen to realistic doctor-patient role plays. Perfect for intermediate English learners who want to improve their speaking, listening, and confidence when talking about health.
Grammar Focus: Modal verbs – should, must, could Level: B1 (Intermediate) Related Keywords: visiting the doctor, aches and pains, modal verbs, English conversation practice, ESL health vocabulary, English for doctors, English for patients
Podcast Notes
In this episode of the Vocaburger Podcast, Emma and Jack discuss the common struggle of losing weight.
1. Vocabulary Glossary:
Ache – a steady pain, not sharp. I have a headache after working on my computer all day. Symptom – a sign that something is wrong with your body. A cough is a symptom of a cold. Appointment – a set time to meet someone for a specific reason. I have an appointment with my doctor tomorrow. Medicine – something you take to treat an illness. The doctor gave me medicine for my allergies. Rest – stopping activity to relax and recover. You should rest after feeling sick.
In many countries, you need to make an appointment before seeing a doctor. Walk-in visits may not always be possible.
Doctors often give sick notes if you cannot go to work or school. Employers or schools may require this. In Western cultures, it is common for doctors to advise rest and medicine, but also to encourage healthy habits like drinking water, eating lightly, and avoiding stress.
Always explain your symptoms clearly when visiting a doctor. Doctors may ask follow-up questions such as “How long have you felt this way?” or “What did you eat before you felt sick?”
