Giao Trinh Speaking Level 4 [PDF]

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TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC DUY TÂN KHOA NGOẠI NGỮ BỘ MÔN: ANH VĂN KHÔNG CHUYÊN

GIÁO TRÌNH

SPEAKING LEVEL 4

LƯU HÀNH NỘI BỘ Đà Nẵng, năm 2015

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Table of contents Lesson 1: Consolidation of Part 2,3 & 4 Lesson 2: Set phrases for Offering Solutions Lesson 3: Practice Proposing a Solution Lesson 4: Using Contrasts and Conjunctions in Expressing Opinions Lesson 5: Introducing Support Lesson 6: Supporting your Opinions Lesson 7: Concluding your Opinions Lesson 8: Practice Expressing your Opinions – Topics related to Companies Lesson 9: Practice Expressing your Opinions – Topics related to Parents and Children Lesson 10: Practice Expressing your Opinions – Other topics Lesson 11 & 12: Model Test 1 Lesson 13 & 14: Model Test 2

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LESSON 1: CONSOLIDATION OF PART 2, 3 & 4

6 STEPS TO DESCRIBE A PICTURE 1.

Determine the way to describe: describe from the main person / thing first

then the surroundings. Make a rough guess on what the picture is about. (the main object or focus of the picture) 2.

Find out useful words /phrases

e.g: family, preparing for a meal, standing around the table, cutting the turkey, smiling, looking at, glasses of wine, various dishes, brick wall 3.

  Talk about the picture generally: maybe the location or the situation of the

picture. Start describing from the background to the foreground, and from the left hand side to the right. Useful Expressions} -in the fore/background -in front of ~ / at the back of ~ -on the left/right hand side 2

-on the upper/lower left/right corner e.g. This is a picture of a family preparing for a meal in a dining room. It looks like a picture of a family gathering for a holiday dinner. 4.   Describe from the main person / thing e.g. The mother is standing up *1cutting a big turkey with a knife and fork. *2

On either side of the mother, her husband and daughter are smiling and

looking at the turkey. *1

 Using participle phrases to describe. (using this method for picture with lots of

actions) e.g. The girl is sitting down waiting to begin her meal. *2

 Using prepositions

A man is standing next to her looking at the turkey. 5. Describe other things around Imagine your answer based on the information in the picture. {Useful Expressions} -looks like ~ -appears to ~ -probably / could be / may be ~ because /due to the fact that e.g. There are a lot of dishes and glasses of wine on the table in the middle of the dining room. Also, I can see some wooden shelves and a brick wall in the background. 6.   Finish the description with your own opinions e.g. Overall, everyone looks happy and the mood seems light. From the picture, I can tell they‘re celebrating Thanksgiving Day. PRACTICE: 3

DIRECTION:  In question 3 you will be asked to describe a picture. You need to provide as many details about the picture as you can in the time allowed. Describe the basic picture and then break down the details in a logical manner. 1.

2.

3.

4. 4

5.

6.

7.

8.

5

9.  

10.

PART 3 : RESPONDING TO QUESTIONS DIRECTION: This section of the test evaluates examinees' ability to form relevant and complete ideas related to the test content (in addition to the skills found at questions 1 - 3). Examinees will answer three questions based on a scenario (2 short and 1 long). There will be no time to prepare answers. Examinees have 15 seconds to answer questions 4 and 5 and 30 seconds for question 6. Situtation 1:  A fitness center is doing a research in your area.  You have agreed to participate in an interview about exercise.  Do you work out regularly?   [Question 4] Why do you exercise? [Question 5] What else do you do other than exercise? [Question 6] What do you think of the benefits of doing exercise?  Situtation 2: 6

Imagine that you are participating in a shoe store survey. [Question 4] What kind of shoes do you like? [Question 5] Do you consider comfort or style? [Question 6] Is there a specific brand that you like?  Situtation 3: A Hollywood advertising agency is collecting information about movie viewing habits. You are answering their questions about watching movies over the telephone.  Question 4: How often do you watch movies? Question 5: What kind of movie do you usually watch? Question 6: Describe your favorite kind of movie?  Situtation 4: Imagine that a North American marketing firm is doing  research in your country. You have agreed to participate  in a telephone interview about movies. Question 4: When and where did you last watch a movie? Question 5: What are your favourite kinds of movies? Question 6: How important is it to monitor the movies that children watch and why?  Situtation 5: A clothing line asked you to participate in an interview about the kind of fashion you usually use at your workplace or school. Question 4: What do the people usually wear at your workplace or school? Question 5: How often do you purchase new clothes to wear at work or school? Question 6: What makes a clothing store a good clothing store?

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Situtation 6: Imagine that a Canadian marketing firm is doing research in your country. You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about television viewing.  Question 4: How often do you watch television? Question 5: What kinds of programs do you usually watch? Question 6:  Describe your favorite television program. Situtation 7: Imagine that a North American marketing firm is doing research in your country. You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about movies. Question 4: When and where did you last watch a movie? Question 5: What are your favorite kinds of movies? Question 6: How important is it to monitor the movies that children watch and why? Situtation 8: Imagine that a British marketing firm is doing a research in your country.  you have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about eating. Question 4: What is your favorite food? Question 5: How often do you eat in a day? Question 6: Describe the typical meal you would have for dinner. Situtation 9: A student training in the hospitality sector is gathering information from the public for a term paper. Assist him by answering his questions.     8

Questions 4:  How many vacations from work do you take that are a week or more in length? 5.  Do you have a place you go to regularly for a holiday? 6.  Tell me about the best vacation you have ever had.  Situtation 10: Scenario: A student training to be a teacher is applying for a job at the local library. Assist the student by answering her questions. Question 4. Why do you want to work at the library? Question 5. How will you balance working and studying? Question 6. What will you do if we hire you and you don't end up liking the job?   PART 4 : RESPONDING TO QUESTIONS USING PROVIDED INFORMATION DIRECTION:  Respond to questions using information provided. This part will check how well the student can respond to three related questions using the given information. This part consists of questions 6,7, and 8. You will have 15 seconds for question 7, 8 and 30 seconds for question 9.  Here are the criteria for testers   • pronunciation • Intonation and stress • grammar • vocabulary • cohesion • relevance of content  

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TEXT 1:    Normandy Department Store Sale Items Name                                  Original                   

Price Sale               

Double layer mini -dress          $310.00                      $123.90 Tricolor mini -dress                  $288.00                      $169.90 Silk knit dress                           $290.00                      $98.20 Floral mini dress                      $298.00                      $178.80 Dot dress                                 $425.00                      $178.80   Sale starts September 9 at 10:30 am

Narrator: Hello, I was shopping online and noticed that a sale is coming up shortly. Could you send me the list of sale items with the price?  [Question7] What items are mainly on sale? [Question8] Are pants also on sale? [Question9] My shopping budget is four hundred fifty dollars. What can I purchase with this budget?

TEXT 2:   Memorandum To: Supervisors From: Judy Linquiest, Human Resource Manager Sub: Probation periods As of January 1st all new employees will be subject to a 3 month probationary period. Medical, holiday, and flextime benefits will not apply to new staff members until the full 3 months have expired. After the three months have been completed, please contact your employees and inform 10

them that their probationary period has ended. The HR department will contact you by email 2 days in advance to remind you of the date. Thank you for your cooperation.

Question 7: What is the main purpose of this memo? Question 8: When does the change come into effect? Question 9: How will the HR department contact you? TEXT 3:   (Narrator): Hello, I'm calling to ask about an advertisement for a business seminar on March 1 that I saw in the newspaper.

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It's about maintaining good relations with your customers. I would like to get some information about the seminar.

  Question 7: What is the cost of attendance? Question 8: Can you please tell me when the seminars start and finish? Question 9: I may be somewhat late in the morning. Can you please tell me about the morning seminars? 12

TEXT 4:  JOB OPENINGS: Part-time jobs available at Margate Hotel near shopping center.  Kitchen staff, waiters, bellhops, drivers needed.  Wages range from  $10 to $12 per hour.  Four further information, call the assistant manager at 555-0174.

Question 7: What is the advertisement for? Question 8: What kind of jobs do they offer? Question 9: What should you do to get more details?

TEXT 5:  FREE SUNGLASSES  AND CASE Purchase a 12 month subscription to Vacation the Nation today and receive a free pair of Sunnies Sunglasses with your very own soft leather case.* To get your free Sunnies follow these 3 easy steps.  1. Purchase a copy of Vacation the Nation, New York's #1 Travel magazine. 2. Fill out the application card (found in the center of the magazine) 3. Mail the card and $21. 95 US to the address provided *This is a limited time offer only. Application and funds must be received no later than Dec 1st 2004. Canadian residents should add $3 US for shipping. Offer not available for residents outside of North America. Question 7: What is this advertisement for? Question 8:.How much do the sunglasses cost? 13

Question 9: Who cannot benefit from this special deal?

TEXT 6: 

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Question 7: When will be the volunteers from the local Cancer Research Society collecting donations?  Question 8: Where will they be collecting the items at 2- 4 PM? Question 9: What kind of items can each individual  donate? Why? TEXT 7:  Are you setting up a small business? Worried about the costs of renting office space and employing the right people? Rebus Virtual Office World can help you. With our Basic Office Deal, we can set up a virtual office for you practically overnight. We will give your business a professional image and our polite, friendly staff will handle your calls and present your business in the best possible way. We can provide you with: a professional business address, a local phone number and we will also handle mail. For a more personal approach, with the option of forwarding mail and messages to your home address, don’t hesitate to ask us about our Premier Office Deals.

Question 7: Where is the text from? Question 8: What does the service provide? Question 9: Which of the following is not included in the Basic Office deal?

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PART 5: PROPOSE A SOLUTION LESSON 2: SET PHRASES FOR OFFERING SOLUTIONS Language focus:

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17

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Useful expressions *How to present a condition or suggestion: A.

Condition

1.

Last minute changes are not allowed.

2.

you should inform us at least 48 hour ahead.

3.

you should inform us 2 hour prior to the schedule.

4.

In order to attend the seminar, people should register through the internet.

5.

The ticket are non-refundable.

6.

you will be fined unless you park your car in the designated area.

7.

You can’t use the locker room since you extended the term.

8.

You should send us the total amount within 24 hours.

9.

You should pay some extra fee because of the late notice.

10.

I’d like to have a day off next week instead of this week.

11.

Children under 15 should be accompanied by parent or legal guardian.

B. Suggestion 1. I’d like to recommend another agency. 2. Our company has many branches. 3. I know some people who would like to have the part-time job. 4. I can introduce another expert in the field. 5. Driving your own car is not good idea since we don’t have enough parking space. 6. Please take the shuttle bus at the station. 7. I will call them and rearrange the time. 8. We have built a north wing, so we can hold the ceremony. 9. If you don’t have the receipt, please tell us the serial number (product’s number) of the item. 10. If you don’t have the receipt, check the credid card statement. * How to present a solution 1. Words / phrases related to placing an order a. refund I would like to give you refund. 19

We will pay you for the loss. b. replacement I will replace the defective product with a new one. c. express service We will send the product by express courier for free. d. missing item We will find the missing item in our stock and send it to you immediately. Would you like to receive the instructions by fax? e. free You can get a free program from our company website. We will offer you a 10% discount coupon. f. available stock We are out of the item now, but we will have more in stock soon. 2. Words / phrases related to damage /repairment a. repair We will send a repairman to fix the problem right away. I will have some one check the system. b. install One of our staff members will install the machine. Let me tell you over the phone how to put the bike together. c. warranty We would like to give you a two-year warranty on the DVD player. d. free I’d like to offer you free installation for the air conditioner. We are not going to charge you for repairs for one year. 3. Words / phrases related to problems at hotels / restaurants / department stores a. hotel We would like to offer you a complimentary breakfast. You can access to our sauna or gym for free. Limousine service will be provided while you‘re in town. 20

We will offer you a room with a great ocean view. b. restaurant The dessert will be served for free. We will reserve a table which has a beautiful night view. I will prepare more seats for additional people. The reservation was made under your name. c. department store we will give you 30% of the original price I will have employee check the same product. We will place an order for a gray suit. d. travel agency, airline We will upgrade you to business class for the next flight. You will receive a ticket for a domestic flight for free We’d like to offer you a free international flight during the off-season. e. rental service You can rent a big van for the same price. You can check out books from 8 am to 6 pm. You can use a boat for an hour. f. bank we will extend the due date for the loan. I’d like to offer you a lower interest rate for the loan. We will issue a new card. I will give you another PIN number. g. park, movie theater The admission fee is included in every package. You can try a maximum of five rides with this ticket at the amusement park. Tickets bought one month in advance are 50% off. We offer 30% off a membership. 4. Words / phrases related to documents / work a.

I will submit the report by the due date.

b.

please inform us the changed date. 21

c.

We are going to send the corrected bill.

d.

We will train the employees.

e.

I will send the document by e-mail.

f.

Please try to find a near by internet café so you can check your e-mail.

g.

I will contact another staff member so he/she can go to the factory.

Practice: Proposing a solution (Question 10) This part will check how well a student can asked to propose a solution. The student should show that he/she has recognized the problem and should propose a way of dealing with the problem. You will have 30 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 60 seconds to speak. The evaluation criteria are as followed:   -Pronunciation, intonation and stress. -Grammar, vocabulary and cohesion. -Relevance and completeness of content. TASK 1: Respond as if you are the customer of that company who has just send them a letter about their product. When you respond, please: 1.

demonstrate that you understand the problem, and

2.

offer a solution to the problem.

Please listen to the recorded message.  This is John Kim from EG. I was delighted to get your letter regarding how much you enjoyed using our product. We are very proud of the product and are pleased with the positive response we are getting from people like you. The marketing department is working on a new marketing

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campaign for the product to allow us to reach more people. We were hoping that you would give us permission to use some of the comments from your letter in our new campaign. If you agree to this, please sign and return the enclosed consent form, using the self-addressed, stamped envelope. As the form states, we assure you that your comments will be printed exactly as they appear in your letter. When you return the envelope, please feel free to add more comments if you have any. And please inform us of your phone number and e-mail address. We’ve also enclosed a discount coupon toward your next purchase, as a small token of our appreciation.

TASK 2: Directions: In this part of the test, you will be presented with a problem and asked to propose a solution. Respond as if you work at the bank.  In your response, be sure to • show that you recognize the problem, and • propose a way of dealing with the problem. Now listen to this: Hi, uh, this is Ron Thomas. This afternoon I shopped at your supermarket and I think you made a mistake. When I got home I checked my receipt and you charged me for two bottles of cooking oil but I only bought one bottle. I know it's not a big charge, but I, well, I shouldn't be charged for something I didn't buy. I can come back to your store if you need me to or please ask your manager to give me a call at 733-0770. Let me know what I should do.

TASK 3: Respond as if you work at a credit card company.  When you respond, please: 1. demonstrate that you understand the problem, and 23

2. offer a solution to the problem. Please listen to the recorded message.  Examinees will hear:  Hello, this is Dan Connor. I'm calling about my new credit card. Ah, actually, the problem is that I haven't received it yet. My old card expires this week and I would like to get my new card . . . I actually sent a letter to your office last month but I didn't receive a reply. Anyway, this card is very important for me because I use it for my business . . . In fact, I use a credit card from your company almost every day. I've been using your company for several years now and have always been very happy with the service d . . .I hope that I can continue using your services in the future. Could you please call me back at work? I'll be out of my office this morning because of a business meeting but I would like to know how to get my new card as quickly as possible. This is Dan Connor. My office number is 555-4321. Thank you.

TASK 4: Directions: In this part of the test, you will be presented with a problem and asked to propose a solution.  In your response, be sure to - show that you recognize the problem, and - propose a way of dealing with the problem  Transcript of what you would only HEAR: Hello, this is Nancy Polanski. I'm calling from the airport. One of your taxis dropped me off at the international departure terminal 20 minutes ago. I think my passport got left behind in the taxi. I noticed it was missing when I checked in with the airline. I can't find it in my purse or my carry-on bag. I've retraced my route since arriving, and I cannot locate it. My passport must still be in the taxi. I don't remember the driver's name. Part of his licence number is 3562. Can you please find the driver and ask him to look for it? I can't miss my flight. It's leaving in an hour. I'll pay for it to be delivered to me. Please call me as soon as possible. My number is 555-8890. Thank-you. 24

LESSON 3: PRACTICE PROPOSING A SOLUTION Dealing with each task, you will have 30 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 60 seconds to speak. TASK 1: 25

Respond as if you work at the bank. In your response, be sure to • show that you recognize the problem, and • propose a way of dealing with the problem. Narrator:  (You will hear...) Hi, this is Delphine Roy.  I can't seem to open my company's account on your website.  Could someone call me and help me fix this problem?  I have to use your system to download a file that our client uploaded there this morning.  It's really frustrating because I need to work on this file today before I go home.  I can't even open the file online.  Everything freezes after I put in my password.  I have called your office a thousand times today, but the phone is always answered by the answering machine.  Please improve your standard of service.  My company is always looking for other options that are more cost effective, and you are not the only company who can provide this service.  Please give me a clall as soon as you get back.  Again, my name's Delphine Roy from Audrey Classics, and my phone number is 412-4532, extension 203.

TASK 2: In your response, be sure to  • show that you recognize the problem, and  • propose a way of dealing with the problem. Now listen to the voice message. 

 Hi, this is Marsha Syms. I’m calling about my bank card. I went to the bank machine early this morning, you know - the ATM - because the bank was closed, so only the machine was open. Anyway, I put my card in the machine and got my money out, but then my card didn’t come out of the machine.

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I got my receipt and my money, but then my bank card just didn’t come out. And I’m leaving for my vacation tonight so I’m really going to need it. I had to get to work early this morning and couldn’t wait around for the bank to open.    Could you call me here at work and let me know how to get my bank card back? I’m really busy today and really need you to call me soon. I can’t go on vacation without my bank card. This is Marsha Syms at 555-1234. Thanks.

TASK 3: In your response, be sure to - show that you recognize the problem, and - propose a way of dealing with the problem Now listen to the voice message. 

Good morning Ma'am.  This is Mina Alberts of No. #2, apartment, Beverly Hills. I'm afraid that the enclosed (xyz) product doesn't work. It is the third one I've had to return this month (see attached correspondence). I bought it from ABC stores at Newtown, Big County on (date).I was careful to follow the instructions for use, honestly. Other than the three I've had to return recently, I've always found your products to be excellent. I'd be grateful if you could send a replacement and refund my postage (state amount). I really appreciate your help.

TASK 4: In your response, be sure to - show that you recognize the problem, and - propose a way of dealing with the problem

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Now listen to the voice message. 

Hello, this is Dale Evans. I recently purchased one of your Techbrite kits for my little son, the police station model?  Unfortunately the kit didn’t come with an instructions manual for putting the kit together. Now I’ve  bought a few Techbrite kits for him before and they’ve always had a full color building manual inside. I’ve already tried to put the kit together myself just  going by the photographs on the kit box.  But it’s almost impossible to get it fully right. Anyway, my son likes to put the models together himself following along to the step by step guide in the manual.  This was his main birthday present this  year so he’s pretty upset for not putting his police station model together – sort of ruined the surprise for him, really.   I hope you’ll be able to do something about this as quickly as possible.  Please call me back. This is Dale Evans 324-6745.

TASK 5: In your response, be sure to - show that you recognize the problem, and - propose a way of dealing with the problem Example problem (transcript):

Hi, this is Angelina Robinson. I'm calling from room 23 down the hall. We are a family of six, and there are only two small beds in this room. The man at the front desk said this was the only room available, and he must have assumed it was only for me and my husband. We can't possibly all fit on these two beds. We have two teenagers, a toddler and a baby. Are you sure there are no other rooms available? All of the other hotels in town are booked because of the marathon tomorrow. My husband is one of the competitors and he needs a good night's rest.

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PART 6: EXPRESS AN OPINION LESSON 4: USING CONTRASTS & CONJUNCTIONS IN EXPRESSING OPINIONS A.

WORDS / PHRASES FOR SIMILARITY AND DIFFERENCE

SIMILARITY 1.

Use these comparative words to show similarity. 29

The apples are the same. (pronoun) These apples are alike. (adj) The apples are similar. (adj) The apples ripen similarly. (adv) This apple is like that apple. (prep phrase) 2.

Use the expressions below to show similarity: as…as, the same…as, like, etc.

This apple is as red as that apple. (adv - adv) This apple has the same flavor as that apple. (noun - adv) This apple and the other apples are the same.* This apple looks like that apple. (verb phrase) This apple is similar to that apple. (adj - prep) This apple is like that apple. (prep) This apple is just the same as that apple. (adv - pronoun - adv) Both this apple and that one are sweet. (focusing adverb - conjunction) Neither this apple nor that one is sweet. (focusing adverb - conjunction) DIFFERENCE 1.

Use these comparative words to show difference.

The apple and the orange are different. (adj) The apple and the orange are unalike / not alike. (adj) The apple and the orange are dissimilar. (adj) The apple and the orange grow differently. (adv) The apple is unlike the orange. (prep) 2.

Use the expressions below to show dissimilarity: not as…as, different…from,

unlike, etc. The apple is different from/ than the orange. (adj - conj) This apple is not as sweet as this orange. (adv - adv) The apple is more beautiful than the orange. (adv - conj) The apple is much more beautiful than the orange. (adv -adv - conj) The apple grows on a tree unlike the tomato. (prep) The apple is more like a pear than the orange. (prep - adv) 30

The skin of the apple contrasts to the skin of the orange. (verb - prep) The orange in contrast to the lemon is sweet. (prep - prep) The orange is sweet in contrast to the lemon which is bitter. COMPARISON / CONTRAST Use more or less to modify verbs That is, we will use more and less to modify verbs. For example: 1. OR

I like ice cream more than frozen yogurt.

I like frozen yogurt, but I like ice cream more.

PHRASES FOR COMPARING 1.

exactly the same as

6.

slightly different from

2.

the same as

7

different from

3.

about the same as

8.

very different from

4.

very similar to

9.

completely different from

5

similar to B.

CONJUNCTIONS

COORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS F

A

N

B

O

Y

S

for and nor but or yet so NOTE: DISTINGHUSH “BUT” & “YET” “BUT” 1.   To show in a positive way what the first part of the sentence implied in a negative way (on the contrary is also used): 

Mr. Lee seemed to waste time, but he completed all the work. 

2.   To take the place of with the exception of:  

No one but Bert remembered to bring a notebook to class. (Everyone

forgot to bring a notebook, with the exception of  Bert.)  3.   To show join contrasting ideas: 31



Amanda never gets tough, but she still commands a lot of respect. 

“YET” Yet has two functions: 1) as an adverb 2) as a coordinating conjunction. It has several meanings: 

in addition      (Yet another fine mess you got me in!)



even                   (yet less interesting. . .)



still                 (She is a beginner, yet.)



eventually      (CC may yet get unpacked.)



at this time     (He's not here yet.)

CORRELATIVE CONJUNCTIONS

Conjunction both. . .and

Sentence Sample

Joining

Both red and white wines are good for cooking.

subject + subject

either. . .or

You can have either chicken or fish.

noun + noun

neither. . .nor

Neither Lionel nor Herbert can tap dance.

subject + subject

not only. . .but also

whether. . .or not. . .but

Not only did Martin lose his wallet, but he also lost his keys. Whether to stay or to go is a decision only you can make. Not a day goes by that I don't remember

sentence + sentence

verb + verb sentence + sentence

the fresh air, but I don't wish I were still in the mountains. Just as. . .so too

Just as you sow, so too shall you reap. 

  SUBORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS

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sentence + sentence

Indicates

Indicates

Indicates

Indicates

Indicates

Indicates

Time

Place

Manner

Reason

Condition

Concession

After

where

as if

because

if

although

Before

wherever

as though

Since

unless

though

Since

 

How

so that

until

even though

When

 

 

Why

in case (that)

while

whenever

 

 

in order that

provided that

whereas

While

 

 

now that

assuming that

rather than

Until

 

 

As

even if

 

As

 

 

So

only if; if only

 

Once

 

 

 

whether or not

 

as long as

 

 

 

that

 

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Conjunctive Adverbs and the Relation They Indicate  To add to

To compare

To concede

again, also, and, and

also, in the same way,

granted, naturally, of although, and yet, at the same

then, besides, equally

likewise, similarly

course

To emphasize**

To summarize

certainly, indeed, in fact,

al in all, altogether,

of course, to be sure, I

as has been said,

hope, naturally, after all

finally, in brief, in

in short, at least,

conclusion, in other

remarkably, in fact,

words, in particular,

I think, it seems, in brief,

in short, in simpler

clearly, I suppose,

terms, in summary,

assuredly,

on the whole, that is,

important, finally, first, further, furthermore, in addition, in the first place, last, moreover, next, second, still, too, in fact

To contrast

time, but at the same time, despite that, even so, even though, for all that, however,  in contrast, in spite of, instead, nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the contrary, on the other hand, otherwise, regardless, still, though, yet  

definitely, without doubt, therefore, to put it for all that,

differently, to

on the whole, in any

summarize

event, importantly,

 

certainly, naturally To show a time sequence

To conclude an

To illustrate

argument after, after a while, afterward, again, also, and

consequently,

then, as long as, at last, at length, at that time,

therefore, as a result, even, for example, for

before, besides, earlier, eventually, finally,

accordingly

formerly, further, furthermore, in addition, in the

after all, as an illustration, instance, in conclusion, indeed, in fact, in other words,

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first place, in the past, last, lately, meanwhile,

in short, it is true, of course,

moreover, next, now, presently, second, shortly,

namely, specifically, that is, to

simultaneously, since, so far, soon, still,

illustrate, thus, truly

subsequently, then, thereafter, too, until, until now, when, later

LESSON 5: INTRODUCING SUPPORT SET PHRASES TO INTRODUCE AN OPINION Stating your Opinion It seems to me that … In my opinion, … I am of the opinion that …/ I take the view that .. My personal view is that … In my experience … As far as I understand / can see, … As I see it, … / From my point of view … As far as I know … / From what I know … I might be wrong but … If I am not mistaken … I believe one can (safely) say  … It is claimed that … I must admit that … I cannot deny that … I can imagine that … I think/believe/suppose … Personally, I think … 35

That is why I think … I am sure/certain/convinced that … I am not sure/certain, but … I am not sure, because I don't know the situation exactly. I am not convinced that The interest rate I have read that … I am of mixed opinions (about / on) … I am of mixed opinions about / on this. I have no opinion in this matter. Outlining Facts The fact is that The (main) point is that … This proves that … What it comes down to is that … It is obvious that … It is certain that … One can say that … It is clear that … There is no doubt that … Giving your Opinion In my opinion / view... Generally speaking, I think... Personally, I haven’t the faintest idea about / whether...

(starting with this expression

may be interpreted as off-hand and could suggest that you have nothing else to say!) To my mind... I’d just like to say... As far as I’m concerned... I’m quite convinced that...(only use this expression to express a very strong opinion!) To be quite honest / frank... If you ask me... 36

Finally, I’d just like to say that the negative of ‘I think he does...’ sounds more natural as ‘I don’t think he does...’ rather than ‘I think he doesn’t...’ The latter is not necessarily wrong, it just sounds less natural, in my opinion. e.g. In my view, birds should not be kept in cages. If we want to use point of view, I think we would more often say from my point of view rather than according to my point of view. Both these expressions emphasize the position or angle you are judging the situation from: From my point of view it makes no difference whether you return on Saturday night or Sunday morning. From a political point of view, the agreement of the UN is extremely important. From the point of view of safety, always wear a helmet when you are on the building site. to my mind / etc In my view, from my point of view, in my opinion are all fairly formal ways of expressing your opinion characteristic of written English. Less formal equivalents more characteristic of spoken English, include the following: to my mind: to emphasize that this is your opinion reckon: usually to express an opinion about what is likely to happen feel: to express a strong personal opinion if you ask me: to express an opinion that may be critical to be honest (with you): to express a critical opinion without seeming rude as far as I'm concerned: to express an opinion that may be different from others'

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e.g. To my mind the quality of their football is just not good enough. I reckon it'll rain later today. Let's go tomorrow. I feel she shouldn't be getting married so young. If you ask me, it's unreasonable to pay for something which should be free. To be honest (with you), I'm surprised you got into university with such low grades. As far as I'm concerned, the matter is over and done with and we can now move forward. Other ways to express opinions If you are required to write an academic essay in which you are asked to express an opinion (see below), useful alternatives to in my view include: I think that… It seems to me that… I would argue that… I do not believe that… I am unconvinced that… I do not agree that… e.g. Question: How acceptable is it for wild animals to be kept in zoos? I believe that it is quite unacceptable for animals to be kept in zoos. It seems to me that when they are confined to a cage they never have enough room to move around. I would

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argue that it is kinder to allow a rare animal to die naturally in the wilds rather than to prolong its life artificially in a zoo.

Making concessions To achieve balance in expressing opinions, it may be useful to incorporate opinions that are different from your own. Useful linking words and expressions include: Of course, many / some people argue… It is sometimes argued… Admittedly… While… It is sometimes argued that it is possible for conditions in the zoo to replicate the wild animal's natural habitat. While this may be feasible for smaller reptiles, it will never be possible, in my view, for the larger mammals which needs acres of space to roam around in. Clarifying an opinion It may sometimes be necessary to explain a thought in greater detail. Useful linking expressions for doing this include: By this I mean… Here I'm referring to… To be more precise… That is to say… By spending money on confining wild animals to zoos, we are wasting resources. By this I mean there are more urgent economic problems to deal with: hospitals and schools should be our first priority.

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USEFUL EXPRESSIONS TO EXPRESS YOUR OPINION   In my opinion, ...                                   

It is my impression that ...

 In my eyes, ...

I have the feeling that ...                         

To my mind, ...                                      

 My own feeling on the subject is that ...

As far as I am concerned, ...        

I have no doubt that ...                           

 Speaking personally, ...

 I am sure / I am certain that ...                

From my point of view, ...                    

I think / consider / find / feel / believe /

As for me / As to me, ...

suppose / presume / assume that ...

My view / opinion / belief / impression /

I hold the opinion that ...                        

conviction is that ...                 

 (I form / adopt an opinion.)                    

I hold the view that ...

I dare say that ...

I would say that ...                                

I guess that ...                                     

 It seems to me that ...                  

I bet that ....                                        

I am of the opinion that...

I gather that ...

My impression is that ...                        

It goes without saying that ... 

 I am under the impression that ...                          USEFUL WORDS TO EXPRESS YOUR AGREEMENT

I agree with you / him ...                      

etc.) is  right 

I share your view.                                   

He is quite right / absolutely right          

I think so.                                     

He may be right.

I really think so.

I have no objection.                              

(The author / the narrator / the protagonist /

I approve of it.                                        40

I have come to the same conclusion              

That is right.

I hold the same opinion.              

That's just it !                                        

We are of one mind / of the same mind on

 Fair enough !                                      

that question. 

Quite so !

I am at one with him on that point.         

Just so !                                                

It is true.                                             

Yes of  course !

USEFUL WORDS TO EXPRESS YOUR DISAGREEMENT

I don't agree.                                         

 I am afraid that is not quite true.

 I disagree.                                            

I take a different view.                            

 I don't think so.

 I don't share his/her/your view.                 

You are / he is wrong.                           

This argument does not hold water.

 I think otherwise.                               

Not at all !                                            

I don't think that's quite right.

 Nonsense !                                            

I don't agree with you/him.                      

Rubbish !

I don't agree with what you say.              

He's off his head !

Example 1 : Some people prefer to live in a city while other people prefer to live in the countryside. Which do you think is better and why? Suggested Introduction: Some people prefer to live in a city while other people prefer to live in the countryside. In my case, I prefer to live in a city and there are some reasons. 1. Some people prefer to live in a city while other people prefer to live in the countryside. (Use the question to make an introduction. Although this is not the best way, it also helpful for you while you have not had any other sentence to start your answer.) 2. In my case, I prefer to live in a city and there are some reasons. (Give your opinion about the topic) Example 2: 41

Topic: Some people prefer to spend their vacation by the sea and other prefer to spend their time in the mountains. Which do you prefer and why? Some people like spend their vacation on the beach while other prefer to spend their time in the mountains. In my case, I definitely want to spend my vacation on the beach. (Paraphrase the topic and present your opinion) Some people like spend their vacation on the beach while other prefer to spend their time in the mountains. In my case, I definitely want to spend my vacation on the beach and there are some reasons. (Paraphrase the topic, present your ideas and mention how many reasons you will present) In my case, I definitely want to spend my vacation on the beach and there are some reasons. (Present your ideas directly and mention how many reasons will be shown) *Some common ways to make an introduction A. State again the question Some people prefer to spend their vacation by the sea and other prefer to spend their time in the mountains. B. Identify your opinions a. Used for any topics - I think /believe Some people believe that student should wear uniform at school. What is your opinion?  I think student should wear uniform at school In my case (in my opinion) Some people believe student should wear uniform at school and others believe student should wear what they want. b. Suitable for alternative situations - Agree/disagree People should experience traveling alone. Do you agree or dis agree?  I agree (disagree) people should experience traveling alone. -

Prefer/rather 42

Which do you prefer, travel alone or with a group?  I (would) prefer to travel alone. -

Support/oppose

Would you support or oppose this statement? Traveling alone has more benefits than traveling with a group.  I would support (oppose) the statement that traveling alone has more benefits than traveling with a group Present the Topic sentence using the given questions TASK 1: Ex: Why do many people like to listen to music? There are several reasons why people like to listen to music. Why do so many people work overseas now? ____________________________________________________________________________ Why do many people often move to other companies? ____________________________________________________________________________ Why do some people get fired from their workplaces? ____________________________________________________________________________ TASK 2: Ex: Some people prefer to communicate face-to-face while others prefer to use se-mail, letter, or the telephone. Which do you prefer and why? Some people like to spend their vacations alone while others prefer to spend it with family or friends. Which do you prefer and why? ____________________________________________________________________________ Some people want to drink alcohol at parties to have a good time whereas others want to drink non-alcoholic beverages. Which do you prefer and why? __________________________________________________________________________ Some people think children should be disciplined with physical punishments while others think such punishments have negative effect on their education and should be banned. Who do you think are correct and why? _______________________________________________________________________

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TASK 3: Make an introduction to the topic in 3 ways Topic: Some people prefer to have a job which requires a lot business trip and others prefer to have a job which doesn’t involve a lot of travel. Which do you prefer and why? Method 1: Paraphrase the topic and present your opinion ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… Method 2: Paraphrase the topic, present your ideas and mention how many reasons you will present ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… Method 3: Present your ideas directly and mention how many reasons will be shown ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………

LESSON 6: SUPPORTING YOUR OPINION 44

Here is the chart to show steps to support your opinion

Asking for Support or Details Why do you think that? Could you elaborate? Could you give (me) an example? Can you illustrate that? What evidence do you have? Could you explain it in more detail? Could you provide some details? Supporting your Opinions Let me illustrate, For example, For instance, To give you an example, 45

Let me give you an example, To elaborate, First, (second), etc. (These phrases can be followed by details, examples, elaboration, or a summary of your main points.) Useful Language То express opinion: I believe, In my opinion, I think, In my view, I strongly believe, I see it, It seems to me (that), As far as I am concerned, I am (not) convinced that..., In my opinion/view … My opinion is that …, I (firmly) believe …, I (definitely) feel/think that, I am inclined to believe that …… То list points: In the first place, first of all, to start with, Firstly, to begin with То add more points: what is more, another major reason, also, furthermore, moreover, in addition to this/that, besides, apart from this, not to mention the fact that То introduce contrasting viewpoints: It is argued that, People argue that, There are people who oppose, Contrary to what most people believe, As opposed to the above ideas To introduce examples: for example, for instance, such as, in particular, especially To conclude: To sum up, All in all, All things considered, Taking everything into account. EXAMPLE Physical Education should be taught in schools. Do you agree or disagree? Support your opinion with arguments and examples. Physical Education has been a part of the school curriculum for years, and I believe that it should remain so for a variety of reasons. In the first place, offering Physical Education is vital for children who have neither the time, nor the opportunity to do sport elsewhere. Physical Education is especially beneficial for children living in crowded cities who do not have space to play. Doing sport at school gives them the opportunity to exercise and get rid of their excess energy. In addition, team sports develop children’s social skills encouraging them to work as part of a team and to cooperate with others.

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On the other hand, some parents feel that Physical Education should not be a compulsory subject as not all children enjoy or are good at sport. These parents forget, however, that all children can benefit from physical activities and doing sport will give them the chance to improve their skills and their health. In conclusion, I believe that Physical Education is an important part of every school curriculum since physical activity helps children to keep fit and stay energetic and alert. PRACTICE: TASK 1: Step 1: Distinguish point of view and reason among the given sentences Ex: It has a big screen. (reason) I prefer to go to the movie theater. ( point of view) I can see new movies.  (reason) 1. a. No delay or waiting.  ( ) b. Price are low.  ( ) c. I like go to fast-food restaurants. ( ) 2. a. Very unhealthy with high amounts of calories, fat and salt.  ( ) b. I avoid going to fast-food restaurants.  ( ) c. Not taste very good. --. ( ) Step 2: Choose the best reason to support the viewpoint Ex: He is very rich -

He eats a lot.

-

He is handsome.

-

He comes from rich family.

1. Learning a second language is very difficult. a. Grammar is difficult to understand. b. It is not interesting. c. Foreigners are not kind. 2. Some students fail a test. 47

a. They didn’t go to the library. b. They didn’t study enough. c. They didn’t sleep well. Step 3: Combine the given sentences in the order of viewpoints and examples Ex: -

It has a big screen.

-

I prefer to go to the movie theater.

-

I can see new movies.

 I prefer to go to the movie theater and there are two reasons. First, there is a big screen and other reason is because I can see new movies. 1.

a. I like go to fast-food restaurants. b. Prices are low. c. No delay or waiting.

 I like to_____________________________________. 2.

a. I avoid going to fast-food restaurants. b. Fast-food is very unhealthy with high amounts of calories, fat and salt. c. Fast-food does not taste very good.

 I avoid ____________________________________. TASK 2: Look at the chart below and try to make support for your opinion (brainstorming)

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Suggested ideas: The 1st reason

The first reason is to work in a different department so they can meet new people and learn new things.

The 2nd reason

Next, they want to have a long-term vacation to have enough time to enjoy. For example, people can travel to foreign countries or get enough rest

The 3rd reason

Lastly, the location can be the reason. For instance, when people live not far from their workplace, they can save time commuting to work or they can use public transportation.

TASK 3: Complete the chart below to make the support for your opinions about the topic “Why do people use computers?” First, people use computers to get information from different sources such as the Internet or ebook. 49

Next, . For example, . Lastly, _____________________________________________________.

LESSON 7: CONCLUDING YOUR OPINIONS A. General view of the Introduction and Conclusion 50

51

Making the conclusion:

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Example 1.The sentence to emphasize the viewpoint Topic sentence: There are four major reasons I like Seoul.  For these reason, Seoul is a great place to live or visit. 2. A brief sentence concluding those mentioned reasons There are three reasons why people think Seoul is a nice place to visit. First, the people are kind. Second the Han River is beautiful. Lastly, there is a variety of shopping malls  Because of the kind people, the beautiful Han River, and many shopping malls, people think Seoul is a nice place to visit. PRACTICE TASK 1: Making a conclusion bases on the given information A. The sentence to emphasize the viewpoint Some people like to go to a gym while other people simply want to exercise at home. In my case, I prefer working out at a gym. I recently joined a fitness center close to my workplace. There is a lot of fitness equipment that I can freely use and personal trainers are always available when I need to ask for help on how to use equipment. I also enjoy meeting other people at the gym. _______________________________________________ B. A brief sentence concluding those mentioned reasons Sunny is very happy these days. She studied graphics at a university. Lately, she found a job in the graphics industry. She enjoys working at her company because she is recognized by her employer for her talent in graphics and she has been given opportunities to travel overseas to attend various seminars. TASK 2: Make a similar conclusion (The sentence to emphasize the viewpoint) Ex: there is a main reason why people want to have a job.  For this reason, people want to have a job. There are three reasons why some children start their education at an early stage.  _________________________________________________________ There are some reasons why people should not drink and drive.  ___________________________________________________________ TASK 3: Make a similar conclusion (A brief sentence concluding those mentioned reasons) 53

Example: I agree that outdoor social activities can improve relationships between co-workers. For example, doing physical activities such as sports or games brings people closer together. Plus, having a variety of parties and events can help co-workers better understand one another. Though physical activities and many kinds of parties or events, I believe the relationships between co-workers can be improved. A. I believe advances in technologies made our life happier than in the past. I can easily name many technological advances. The first one is cell phones. Using a cell phone, we can now talk to our loved ones anywhere we are. Another technology that we benefit from is automobiles. Cars these days are more comfortable than the ones in the past. _______________________________________ B. I believe doing business between friends car ruin friendships. Sometimes things do not turn out well in the end, especially when money is involved. And also, even close friends can argue about the amount of work they do because it is not easy to divede the workload evenly. __________________________________________

LESSON 8: PRATICE EXPRESSING YOUR OPINIONS - TOPICS RELATED TO COMPANIES 54

A. Consolidation of part 6-question 11 

Useful language

Also Besides Give additional idea and reason

In addition Another reason is ~. Moreover For instance

Give example Present the sequences / reasons or examples

For example Such as First, second,… First of all Then, Next Finally, Lastly As a result Therefore , so

Present the conclusion

Thus, hence For these reason That’s why ~. In conclusion In brief In short

1. Check-Up: In the passage below, which group do the words / phrases in bold belong to? Some people like to spend their vacations on the beach and others want to go to the mountains. I prefer going to the beach and there are several reasons. First, I can enjoy a variety of water sports in the sea such as water skiing, sailing, swimming and even fishing. Next, an unobstructed view of the bright sunrise and the glorious sunset is also fantastic to watch. Also, people can spend their time just watching beautiful waves on the sea, white sand or some flying seabirds. Finally, spending time on the beach is fun for 55

anyone. For example, a group of people can play many kinds of sports together such as beach volleyball or scuba diving. Young children can make sand castles and adults can relax on the beach getting a tan in the sun or walk along the seashore. For these reasons, I favor going to the beach for vacation. 2.

Fill in the blanks in the passage below using the given linking words First of all

Next

So

For example

Lastly

For these reasons

There are some reason why I believe student should wear school uniforms. _________, wearing a uniform doesn’t different the rich and the poor among students. If students wear the same clothing, it is not possible to notice who is rich and who is poor. _________ that makes everyone equal. _________, uniform help family budgets. ________, students or their parents have to spend money on buying different kinds of clothes if students can wear whatever they want. __________, students in uniform are easily identifiable. Students won’t be allowed to certain places that only adults are accepted.__________, I am in favor of school uniforms. Tips for Good Opinion speaking  You will need to be well prepared in order to write a good opinion paragraph. Here are the steps to take before you even start writing: Pick a controversial issue - something people clearly agree or disagree with it strongly. Decide which side you will take - do you agree or disagree with it? This will be your opinion. Get as much information as you can in order to defend your point of view - you will need facts to support your point, examples of why your opinion is the correct one. Find out as much as you can about opinions that are different from yours - get as much information about the other side as you can. Be ready to change your main idea if your research shows you that your thoughts were not correct to begin with!  Now you are ready to start Make sure your main idea - your opinion about the subject - is clear and well stated. For example:

Classes that start at or before 8 o'clock in the morning are not scheduled at the best time to benefit the majority of the students who have to take them. 56

Transition into the body of the paragraph - For example: There are many, many reasons for this. Give your second strongest reason to support this idea. For example: Most of the students are pretty young and stay up until late at night working or socializing. They don't know how to manage their time well enough yet. Give a specific example or statistics to support this statement. For example: Look at statistics from college campus studies on this subject - say something similar to this -  A study done by _____________, from the _________ reports that University of ________ freshman students work_______ hours in the evenings, and then socialize for _________ hours. They only get an average of ______ hours of sleep. Give your weakest reason to support this idea. For example: People have a difficult time getting up too early in the morning. Give an example to support this statement too. For example: describe how difficult it is for someone you know to get up and be ready in time. (look around your classroom, at the students in the cafeteria - how many look tired and not ready for the day's work yet?) Give your strongest reason to support this idea. For example: People learn best when they have rested long enough, and are awake and ready to learn. Explain and give an example of someone you know, or statistics you have found to support this thought. For example:

The ________ study conducted by  ________ concluded that _____% of the students who had not rested long enough, or well enough, fail their courses which are scheduled early in the morning, and the average grades from early courses are ____ lower than grades fro the same course scheduled for later in the day. Give the strongest reason that others who do not agree with you have. For example: Some people think that it is important to get your classes done and over with early in the morning, so there is time for other activities during the day. Refute this argument - prove that it is not really the correct view. For example: This is true, early courses do free the people up for other activities later, but what is the point of sacrificing learning, hurting chances for success, in order to be able to play during a longer period of the day? Finish with a good concluding sentence. For example: Even though early courses are good for a few people who are at their best in the early morning, they are not helpful to the majority of the students. 57

. Make sure: 1. you have a main idea 2. your supporting points are directly related to the main idea 3. your transitions are good and logical 4. your sentences are in the correct order 5. you mentioned the other side, 6. you refuted the argument from the other side 7. your sentences are well written, with as few errors as possible

COMMON TOPICS

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C. PRACTICE: Questions: 1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Businesses should do anything they can to make profit. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. 2. A company is going to give some money either to support the arts or to protect the environment. Which do you think the company should choose? Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. 3. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The most important aspect of a job is the money a person earns. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. 59

4. People work because they need money to live? What are some other reasons that they work? Discuss one or more of these reasons. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. 5. Some people prefer to work for a large company while others prefer a small one. Which one do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. 6. Businesses should hire employees for their entire lives. Do you agree or disagree? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. 7. In some countries, teenagers have jobs while they are still students. Do you think this is s good idea? Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. 8. What are some important qualities of a good supervisor (boss)? Use specific details and examples to explain why these qualities are important. 9. Telecommuting' refers to workers doing their jobs from home for part of each week and communicating with their office using computer technology. Telecommuting is growing in many countries and is expected to be common for most office workers in the coming decades. How do you think society will be affected by the growth of telecommuting? 10. In some countries the average worker is obliged to retire at the age of 50, while in others people can work until they are 65 or 70. Until what age do you think people should be encouraged to remain in paid employment? Give reasons for your answer.  SUGGESTED IDEAS: Question 2:

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Question 3:

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LESSON 9: PRACTICE EXPRESSING YOUR OPINIONS - TOPICS RELATED TO PARENTS AND CHILDREN Some Common Topics 1. Children watch television more than they did in the past 2. Parents should help their children choose a career. 3. Early education 4. Study abroad 5. School uniform 6. Physical punishment 7. Working parents Questions: 1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Parents are the best teachers. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. 2. Some people think the family is the most important influence on young adults. While others think that friends are the most important influence on them. Which view do you agree? Use examples to support your ideas. 62

3. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Children should be required to help with household tasks as soon as they are able to do so. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. 4. What are some qualities of a good parent? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. 5. Most modern families have both parents working and as a result children spend less and less time with their parents. What is the reason for this and what problems can this cause? 6. In many western countries, there is an increasing number of couples choosing to have no children. What are the advantages and disadvantages to couples having no children. 7. In many modern societies, grandchildren rarely spend any quality time with their grandparents. What do you think are the consequences of this. 8. Children should never be educated at home by their parents. Do you agree or disagree? 9. Children learn best by observing behavior of adults and copying it. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? SUGGESTED IDEAS: Question 1:

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Question 2:

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LESSON 10: PRACTICE EXPRESSING YOUR OPINIONS - OTHER TOPICS

EDUCATION 1.

Education is the single most important factor in the development of a country. Do you agree?

2.

What are factors which are related to academic success in high-school students?

3.

Do the benefits of study abroad justify the difficulties? What advice would you offer to a prospective student?

4.

The idea of going overseas for university study is an exciting prospect for many people. But while it may offer some advantages, it is probably better to stay home because of the difficulties a student inevitably encounters living and studying in a different culture. To what extent do you agree or disagree this statement? Give reasons for your answer.

5.

Education is recognized as vital to the future of any society in today's world. Governments throughout the world should make education compulsory for all children between the ages of 5 and 15. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

6.

Foreign language instruction should begin in kindergarten. Discuss.

7.

Should sports classes be sacrificed in High School so students can concentrate on academic subjects? MODERN SOCIETY  8. Nowadays doctors can become very rich. Maybe they should not focus on profitable activities such as plastic surgery or looking after rich patients and concentrate more on patients health, no matter how rich they are? 9. Does travel help to promote understanding and communication between countries? 10. In your opinion what factors contribute to a good movie? 65

11. Are famous people treated unfairly by the media ? Should they be given more privacy, or is the price of their fame an invasion into their private lives? 12. Is animal testing necessary? 13. Some businesses now say that no one can smoke cigarettes in any of their offices. Some governments have banned smoking in all public places. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons. 14. To what extent is the use of animals in scientific research acceptable? 15. Human beings do not need to eat meat in order to maintain good health because they can get all their food needs from meatless products and meatless substances. A vegetarian diet is as healthy as a diet containing meat. Argue for or against the opinion above. 16. Forests are the lungs of the earth. Destruction of the world's forests amounts to death of the world we currently know. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 17. Are our zoos cruel to wild animals? Discuss. 18. Zoos are sometimes seen as necessary but not poor alternatives to a natural environment. Discuss some of the arguments for and/or against keeping animals in zoos. 19. To what extent will migration from the developing world to the developed world become a social and political issue in the 21st century? 20. In Britain, when someone gets old, they often go to live in a home with other old people where there are nurses to look after them. Sometimes the government has to pay for this care. Who should be responsible for our old people? Give reasons. 21. The first car appeared on British roads in 1888. By the year 2000 there may be as many as 29 million vehicles on British roads. Alternative forms of transport should be encouraged and international laws introduced to control car ownership and use. What do you think? 22. The best way to reduce the number of traffic accidents is to make all young drivers complete a safe driving education course before being licensed to drive. 23. News editors decide what to broadcast on TV and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you think influence their decisions? Have we become used to bad news? Would it be better if more good news was reported? 24. TV: could you be without it? Discuss. 25. To what extent will migration from the developing world to the developed world become a social and political issue in the 21st century?

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26. The mass media, including TV, radio and newspapers, have great influence in shaping people's ideas. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer. 27. Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries but its disadvantages should not be overlooked. What are some of the problems of tourism? 28. The mass media, including TV, radio and newspapers, have great influence in shaping people's ideas. To what extent do you agree or disagree this statement? Give reasons for your answer TECHNOLOGY  29. Does modern technology make life more convenient, or was life better when technology was simpler? 30. Will modern technology, such as the internet ever replace the book or the written word as the main source of information? 31. We are becoming increasingly dependent on computers. They are used in businesses, hospitals, crime detection and even to fly planes. What things will they be used for in future? Is this dependence on computers a good thing or should we be more suspicious of their benefits? Use specific details and examples in your answer. 32. In what ways has information technology changed work and working practices in the past 10 years? ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY 33. To what extent should economic planning be influenced by the need of environmental conservation? 34. Damage of the environment is an inevitable consequence of worldwide improvements in the standard of living. Discuss. 35. The rising levels of congestion and air pollution found in most of the world cities can be attributed directly to the rapidly increasing number of private cars in use. In order to reverse this decline in the quality of life in cities, attempts must be made to encourage people to use their cars less and public transport more. Discuss possible ways to encourage the use of public transport. 36. The threat of nuclear weapons maintains world peace. Nuclear power provides cheap and clean energy. The benefits of nuclear technology far outweigh the disadvantages. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer. 67

OTHER TOPICS 37. The lessons we take from failure can be fundamental to later success. Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? 38. Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again? 39. Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma-anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution. 40. Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.

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LESSON 11 & 12: MODEL TEST 1

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LESSON 13 & 14: MODEL TEST 2 Questions 1–2: Read a text aloud Directions: In this part of the test, you will read aloud the text on the screen. You will have 45 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 45 seconds to read the text aloud.

If you're shopping, sightseeing and running around every minute, your vacation can seem like hard work. To avoid vacation stress, come to the Blue Valley Inn on beautiful Lake Mead. While staying at our inn, you'll breathe clean country air as you view spectacular sights. With its 75

spacious rooms, swimming pool and many outdoor activities, the inn is the perfect place for a vacation you won't forget. The Blue Valley Inn prides itself on the personal attention it provides to every guest. The Blue Valley motto has always been "A happy guest is our greatest treasure."

Question 2:

Quitting your job in these tough economic times is either brave or foolish, or perhaps both. But they do say that fortune favors the bold, and sometimes your best choice is to leave behind what to keep our options open, so we don't quit a job until we find another. But often it is only when we burn our bridges behind us that we are forced to look for something new. Resigning from my old job gave me the freedom to try something really new.

Question 3: Describe a picture Directions:  In this part of the test, you will describe the picture on your screen in as much detail as you can. You will have 30 seconds to prepare your response. Then you will have 45 seconds to speak about the picture.

Questions 4–6: Respond to questions 76

Directions: In this part of the test, you will answer three questions. For each question, begin responding immediately after you hear a beep. No preparation time is provided. You will have 15 seconds to respond to questions 1 and 2, and 30 seconds to respond to Question 3. (Narrator): Imagine that a Canadian marketing firm is doing research in your country. You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about television viewing. Question 4: How often do you watch television? Question 5: What kinds of programs do you usually watch? Question 6: Describe your favorite television program. Questions 7–9: Respond to questions using information provided Directions: In this part of the test, you will answer three questions based on the information provided. You will have 30 seconds to read the information before the questions begin. For each question, begin responding immediately after you hear a beep. No additional preparation time is provided. You will have 15 seconds to respond to Questions 7 and 8, and 30 seconds to respond to Question 9. (Narrator): Hello, I’m calling about a conference on May 27. I saw advertised in the newspaper. It’s about starting your own business. I was hoping you could give me some information.

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Question 7: Could you tell me what time the conference starts and how long it will last? Question 8: How much does conference attendance cost? Question 9: I may not be available for the full day. Could you give me information about the activities in the morning, before lunchtime? Question 10: Propose a solution Directions: In this part of the test, you will be presented with a problem and asked to propose a solution. You will have 30 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 60 seconds to speak. Respond as if you work at the bank. In your response, be sure to • show that you recognize the problem, and • propose a way of dealing with the problem Now listen to the voice message. You will hear: 78

Hi, this is Marsha Syms. Um, I’m calling about my bank card. I went to the bank machine early this morning, you know — the ATM (upspeak) ... because the bank was closed so only the machine was open. Anyway, I put my card in the machine and got my money out....but then my card didn’t come out of the machine. I got my receipt and my money but then my bank card just didn’t come out. And I’m leaving for my vacation tonight so I’m really going to need it....I had to get to work early this morning, and couldn’t wait around for the bank to open....Could you call me here at work, and let me know how to get my bank card back? I’m really busy today, and really need you to call me soon. I can’t go on vacation without my bank card. This is Marsha Syms at 555-1234. Thanks.

Question 11: Express an opinion Directions: In this part of the test, you will give your opinion about a specific topic. Be sure to say as much as you can in the time allowed. You will have 15 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 60 seconds to speak. Question: (Narrator): Some people prefer to take a job that does not pay well but does provide a lot of time off from work. What is your opinion about taking a job with a low salary that has a lot of vacation time? Give reasons for your opinion.

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