Part 6

Questions 27-32
For each question, write the correct answer. Write one word for each gap.

The Tuesday Bowler

I work behind the counter at a bowling alley on the edge of town. Most of our customers come in groups – birthday parties, work outings, families on rainy afternoons. But there is one man who always comes alone. He arrives 27 Tuesday evenings at exactly 7 pm, pays for one game, and rents the same pair of shoes every time.

He never speaks 28 than necessary. Just a quiet “thank you” when I hand him the shoes. He bowls his game, puts the shoes back, and leaves. I have seen him do this more than fifty times. I do not even know his name.

One night, 29 he was putting his shoes back, he stopped. He looked at me and asked if I could help him improve his score. He said he had been bowling for years but never got better. I was surprised. He had always seemed like someone who kept to 30 .

I told him I was not a coach, but I had watched a lot of bowling. I pointed out 31 he was releasing the ball too early. He tried again, and his next shot knocked down eight pins – three more than his usual. He smiled. It was the first time I had seen him do that.

Now he comes on Tuesdays and asks for tips. He still plays alone. But sometimes, 32 the game, he looks over and gives me a small wave. That is his way of saying thank you. And that is enough for me.

For this task: Answers with explanations :: Vocabulary