TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC DUY TÂN

KHOA NGOẠI NGỮ

BỘ MÔN: ANH VĂN KHÔNG CHUYÊN

GIÁO TRÌNH
SPEAKING LEVEL 3

LƯU HÀNH NỘI BỘ

Đà Nẵng, năm 2014

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

LESSON 1 : Cohesion and Structuring a Response in Picture Description……………………………….3

LESSON 2: Expressions to Add information or Expand your Response In Part 3 Of Toeic Speaking…...8
LESSON 3: Tips to Improve Your Response and Real Practice for Part 4 in Toeic Speaking……………12
LESSON 4: Introduction to Part 5 – Propose a Solution- and Types of Voicemail Message……………..16
LESSON 5: Common Expressions in Different Types of Message……………………………………….20
LESSON 6: Basic Practice for Part 5 in Toeic Speaking…………………………………………………24
LESSON 7: Explaining Reasons and Responding to Difficult Requests………………………………….26
LESSON 8: Further Practice for Toeic Part 5…………………………..…………………………………29
LESSON 9: Introduction to Part 6 – Express An Opinion- and Types of Topics ………………………. 33
LESSON 10: Common Ways to Express Opinions …………………………………………………… 37
LESSON 11: Practice expressing opinions with an Answer Template and Comparison Forms ……… 41

LESSON 12: Tips to improve your opinion expressions for Part 6 ……………………………… ……. 46
LESSON 13: Tips to improve your opinion expressions for Part 6 (Cont’d)…………………………… 48
LESSON 14: Basic Practice for Part 6………………………………………………………………… 50

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 LESSON 1
COHESION AND STRUCTURING A RESPONSE IN PICTURE DESCRIPTION I.
Language Focus
In part 2 of Toeic speaking Test you will describe a picture in as much detail as you can. You will
then have 30 seconds to prepare your response. Then you will have 45 seconds to speak about the picture.
In order to give the best description for each picture, you should pay attention to the following instruction:
First, describe what the person or people are doing or the condition of the main thing in the image.
Then describe how the action is taking place, where the person or thing is, and the focus of the action
or attention. Remember to use adjectives to describe the nouns and adverbs to describe the verbs when
possible.
You can follow a temple like this to help you organize your response.

- Refer to the photo.

- Say who is in the photo
- Say where the person or people are
- Say what the person or people are doing

1. Language Focus 1.
You must always keep your response coherent and easy to understand by using suitable transitions and
conjunctions.
1. Sequential Transitions: These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence.
Numerical:
in the (first, second, etc.) place, initially, to start with, first of all thirdly, (&c.)
to begin with, at first, for a start, secondly,
Continuation:
subsequently, previously, eventually, next, before (this), afterwards, after (this),
then

2. Adversative Transitions: These transitions are used to signal conflict, contradiction

concession, dismissal, &c

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Conflict:
but, by way of contrast, while, on the other hand, however, (and) yet, whereas, though
(final position), in contrast, when in fact, conversely, still
Concession:
but even so, nevertheless, even though, admittedly, however, nonetheless, despite (this),

although, in spite of (this), regardless (of this), (and) yet, though

2. Language Focus 2
Remember to keep your response relevant and to focus on main ideas. Don't get lost in small
details or talk about insignificant things in the image.
However, if you are not sure, you should make guesses by using adverbs or adjectives to express certainty
or uncertainty.
You can also use of modals of certainty. Look at the chart for examples.
Expressing Certainty/ Uncertainty with Adjectives and Adverbs
Uncertain Somewhat sure Very sure
I'm not positive.... Possibly It's certain (that)....
It's not likely (that).... Probably It's likely (that).....
I'm not sure but... Perhaps Surely
I'm doubtful about... Maybe Undoubtedly
Might be Most likely Definitely
Could be.... May be ... Must be
Should be...

II. Practice.
Task 1:Look at the photo then number the sentences from 1-6 to put them in the correct order.

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1. So, finally, I'd say that they might be colleagues at the same company.
2. The young woman is on the left, and she's wearing a blouse and black pants. She's holding a
document.
3. The man and the woman are standing in a mail room or a copy room, in front of a photocopy
machine and near some mailboxes.
4. And it looks like they have just made copies, which they're looking over.
5. Next to the woman is a young man wearing a white shirt and casual slacks.
6. Well, there are two people in the picture, a man and a woman.
Task 2: Make these sentences less certain by adding adverbs or changing the underlined words. There is
more than one possible answer for each sentence.
1. I think that the woman is the man's boss.
2. I'm sure the man is waiting for a document.
3. The woman must be the children's mother.
4. It's likely that the man is there to repair the computer.
5. The man and the woman are definitely running in a race.
6. Undoubtedly, the man is a new employee at the company.
Task 3: Describe the following photos

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P5. P6.

P7. P8.

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P9. P10.

P11. P12.

P13. P14.

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 LESSON 2
EXPRESSIONS TO ADD INFORMATION OR EXPAND YOUR RESONSE
IN PART 3 OF TOEIC SPEAKING
I. Language Focus
In part 3 of the TOEIC speaking test, you will answer three questions. For each question, begin
responding immediately after the question has finished. No preparation time is provided. You will have
15 seconds to respond to Questions 4 and 5 and 30 seconds to respond to Question 6.
You must answer your questions completely and always keep your response relevant. You
should stay focused on the topic, but give as many details as you can.
Going off topic can negatively affect your score. If you don't answer all parts of the question, you will
lose points on your score as well.
When answering the questions, you can use expressions like these to add information or expand
on your answer.
Common Expressions For Adding Information Or Expanding On Your Answer
Also,........./ ....................., too. Another thing is...............
In addition,.... Finally,......
Plus,....... Moreover,......
Beside,............. ..................as well

II. Practice
Task 1: Read each question and write numbers to put the sentences into the best order for a response.
Question 4: What's your Question 5: How often do Question 6: What do you
favorite restaurant? Why? you eat at this restaurant? think about the service at
this restaurant, and how
could it be improved?

1. I think they have the best 1. That's because it has 1. If they want to maintain the
canoli in town. become very popular. restaurant's popularity, they
2. I would have to say my 2. I usually eat at this should make those changes.
favorite restaurant is Piccolo restaurant once a week. 2. But sometimes the service is
restaurant. 3. so now I go only if I can get slow because the restaurant is

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3. Another thing is that the a reservation. so crowded.
food is really delicious. 4. I would go more often, but 3. One thing I think they could
4. I like it because I enjoy the it's difficult to get a table. do to improve the restaurant is
relaxing atmosphere. to hire more servers.
4. Most of the time, I think the
service there is excellent.
5. Another suggestion is that
the servers could bring more
bread while you wait for your
meal.

Task 2: Read each question and circle the response that is NOT connected to the topic.
1. What's your favorite type of literature?
a. I like historical novels.
b. My favorite type of literature is fiction.
c. I would have to say that biographies are my favorite type of literature.
d. I like to read sports statistics in the newspaper.
2. What kind of dessert do you like best?
a. My favorite kind of dessert is chocolate ice cream.
b. I think that vanilla cake with chocolate frosting is my all-time favorite dessert.
c. I like to eat potato chips for a snack right after dinner.
d. The kind of dessert I like best is apple pie. It is really delicious with ice cream on top.
3. What is your favorite season? Why?
a. My birthday is my favorite day because I love to have a big party.
b. I would have to say that fall is my favorite season because I enjoy the colors of the leaves.
c. My favorite time of year is winter because I enjoy winter sports, like skiing and ice-skating.
d. I like summertime the best of all. I love to be near the ocean and spend my day on the beach.

1. What is your hobby?

2. How long have you had a hobby?
3. Why do people have hobbies?

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4. Why did you start your hobby?
5. Can you make money from doing your hobby?
6. How many hours a week do you spend on your hobby?
7. Is your hobby safe or dangerous?
8. What is a hobby?
9. Why do people need hobbies?
10. What can one do as a hobby?
11. How much time can one spend on his/her hobby?
12. What is your hobby?
13. Does your hobby interfere with your work/study/personal life?
14. Do you spend money on your hobby?
15. Does your hobby influence your choice of friends?
16. Can a hobby save a child from bad peer influence?
17. Can a hobby be dangerous?
18. Have you got a hobby?
19. How long have you had your hobby?
20. Which hobbies are the most expensive?
21. Which hobbies are the cheapest?
22. Which hobbies cost nothing at all?
23. Which hobbies are the most popular in your country?
24. Is hunting a hobby or a sport in your country?
25. Which hobbies are the most popular with women in your country? With men?
26. Did you have any hobbies when you were a child?
27. Can you think of any hobbies which are popular with children and adults?
28. Do you think a hobby is different from a sport?
29. Are there any hobbies you would like to try?
30. Are there any dangerous hobbies?
31. Are there any hobbies you can do in other countries, but not your own?
32. Which hobbies do you think are the most difficult?
33. Do you prefer to have many friends or just a few that you are close to?

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34. What are the benefits of having just a few close friends? How about the benefits of having many
friends?
35. Describe your best friend.
36. Are you close friends with anyone who you knew in elementary school?
37. Why do people need friends? What can happen if a person has no friends?
38. What is the biggest thing you have done to help a friend?
39. Do you have any friends who would risk their life to save you?
40. Would you risk your life to save a friend? How about a stranger?
41. What kind of qualities do you look for in a friend?
42. What is the best way to make new friends? Do you like making new friends?
43. Do you think sites like Facebook are good for friendships or do they stop people from becoming
close?
44. How did you meet your best friend?
45. Are you a fashionable person?
46. What is fashion?
47. Who is fashionable that you know?
48. Do you read fashion magazines?
49. Which season is it the easiest to be fashionable?
50. Can you be fashionable without spending money?
51. Who is the most fashionable in your family?
52. Why do you think so?
53. Where is a fashionable city in your country?
54. Do you think your friends are fashionable?
55. Are you dressed fashionably today?
56. Why do some people ignore fashion?
57. Who is the most fashionable teacher you know?
58. How much do you spend getting ready to go to school?

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 LESSON 3
TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR RESPONSE AND REAL PRACTICE FOR PART 4
IN TOEIC SPEAKING
I. Language Focus
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 the question. You will have 15 seconds to respond to Questions 7 and 8 and 30
seconds to respond to Question 9.
It is not necessary to include to include a polite closing statement for question . However, if you find
that you have answered completely and still have time left, you can add something to make your answer
a bit longer and more polite.
For example: I hope I have answered all of your questions
Moreover, information texts often drop things like articles and prepositions. Be sure to add
them back in when you change the information from written form to spoken form.
As you can see, you will likely need certain grammatical forms to make your sentences.
Here are helpful grammatical forms to practice:
Grammatical Forms Sample Responses
Future Forms You will be leaving at 3:00 on March 6th
There are/ There is There's a lecture at 2:00
Statements There are several people attending that day
Modals You should call the office no later than 2:00
Passive Forms The conference will be held in August of this
year.

II. Practice

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TASK 1

Question 1: Could you please tell me some details of Mr. John’s flight to Tokyo and where he will be
staying?
Question 2: What is he going to do on the second day?
Question 3: Could you please tell me more detail about the activities for the last day?
TASK 2

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Question 1: When is the Grand Opening event being held and where?
Question 2: What time do we look around the facilities and who is leading it?
Question 3: Could you tell me who is the person giving closing speech?
TASK 3

Question 1: What items are mainly on sale?

Question 2: Are pants also on sale?
th
Question 3: How much will it cost me to buy a silk kit dress on September 9 ?
TASK 4

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Question 1: What is the purpose of this note?
Question 2: What does Casey ask Andrea to do?
Question 3: Why does Casey ask Andrea to do these things?

TASK 5

Question 1: Who is this memo directed at?

Question 2: Who wrote this memo?

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Question 3: What will the punishment be for cheating students?
TASK 6

Question 1: How long will the sale last?

Question 2: Which items do the shop sale?
Question 3: How much percent is applied for the minimum discount?

LESSON 4
INTRODUCTION TO PART 5 – PROPOSE A SOLUTION- AND
TYPES OF VOICEMAIL MESSAGE
I. Language Focus
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.
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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II. Practice
Task 1: Read the three following voicemails . Does the caller have a complaint, request or both?
Circle the correct answer.

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Voicemail 1:

Voicemail 2:

Voicemail 3:

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Task 2:
Read again the voicemails in Task 1 and use the templates below to take notes on key words.

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LESSON 5 COMMON EXPRESSIONS IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF MESSAGE I.
Language Focus.

In order to propose a good solution, you must be sure about the type of voicemails provided. The

following chart gives examples of some expressions that can give you clues about the reason for the call.

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II. Practice

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Task 1:

Task 2: Write the numbers of the purposes next to the correct sentences in the sample response. Use the
purposes in the box.

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 LESSON 6: BASIC PRACTICE FOR PART 5 IN TOEIC SPEAKING

TASK 1. Read the voicemail message, then answer the questions.

Sample message (script not available in test)

Good morning. My name is Marty Jones. I signed up to take the advanced Spanish course that meets on
Saturday morning. However, I just found out that I’ll be starting a new job this week and my work
schedule will include Saturday mornings. So I won’t be able to take that class. Could I take it at another
time? I’m free most evenings during the week and on Monday and Tuesday afternoons. If there’s an
advanced Spanish class that meets one of these times, maybe I could transfer it into it. Please let me know,
I can be reached at 403-555-1212. Thanks.

1. This call is about

a. a request
b. a complaint
c. both a request and a complaint
2. What is the caller’s main problem?
a. He can’t study, because he is too busy at work.
b. He thinks the class level is too advanced.
c. He can’t go to class at the scheduled time.
3. What does the caller want?
a. His money to be returned
b. A transfer to a different class
c. Extra help with his class work
TASK 2. Read the sample response. Notice the words and expressions the speaker uses to recognize the
problem and offer a solution. Write the numbers of the correct purposes next to the sentences in the reponse. Use the
purposes below.
Purposes
1.Proposed solution 4.Closing statement
2.Greeting and introduction 5.Reasons and conditions
3.Acknowledge of request 6.Response to request
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Sample response:
.2 . Hello, Mr. Jones. My name is Kim. . I understand that you can’t take the Saturday morning
Spanish class because of your new work schedule. I’m sorry that the class schedule doesn’t work for you.
I know that it can be complicated to try to study and work at the same time. . However, this problem is
very easy to solve. We do have another advanced Spanish class. It meets on Tueday afternoons, and
there’s still no room for another student in it. . I’ll put your name on the list for that class, so all you
have to do is show up next Tuesday afternoon at two o’clock. . Please let me know if you have any
problem with this. . Otherwise, we hope to see you next Tuesday.

TASK 3. Now complete the response template below or use another piece of paper to create a response to
the message in Part A. Then practice your response aloud.

Response:

Thank you for calling,……………………………………………………………….

Your message said that you can’t…………………………………………………..
……………….because of your…………………………………………………….
I’m sorry to hear about this difficulty with your……………………………….
…………………………., but I think this problem is easy to solve. You said that you’re available
on……………………………………………….and…………
……………………………………….afternoons. We have an advanced Spanish class you can attend on
either of those days. Please choose which day you want and let me know. I hope this will work well for
you.

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 LESSON 7: EXPLAINING REASONS AND RESPONDING TO DIFFICULT REQUESTS

I. Language Focus
For complaints, after you introduce yourself and apologize, you should try to offer at least one possible
reason for the problem. This will help expand your answer an show you understand what is wrong. It is
fine to invent a reason, but your reason should be realistic.

Questions 10 requests will often be very urgent or difficult to do. Therefore, you should be prepared to
give an apologetic response or say no to the caller and explain the reason. Here are some expressions to
explain reasons for problems and respond to difficult requests.

1. Language Focus 1 GIVING REASONS FOR PROBLEMS

Set Phrases Detail Formats Examples

It’s/ It was most likely/ A person, place, thing, or an It’s most likely a problem
probably a problem with… event with the connection
It could/ may/ might be… It could be a loose wire.

It could/ must/ might/ may Past participle ( passive It could have been sent to
have been… verb); a person, place, the wrong address.
thing, or an event It must have been a bank
error.

There could/ must/ might/ A noun phrase There could have been a
may have been… problem in shipping.
There must have been
something wrong the the
phone system.

It seems/ appears that…. A sentence explaining the It seems that the booking
problem didn’t go through.

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2. Language Focus 2 RESPONDING TO DIFFICULT REQUESTS
Set Phrases Detail Formats Examples
I’m afraid there’s a A sentence explaining the I’m afraid there’s a
problem with that problem problem with that because
because… we don’t offer that service.

Unfortunately, it’s not our A verb phrase Unfortunately, it’s not our
policy to… policy to accept students
without applications

As you mentioned/ know so A sentence giving a As you mentioned, the

we won’t be able to…. condition stated in the morning course is full, so
message, a verb phrase we won’t be able to enroll
you in that course.

II. Practice

TASK 1: Read the full responses to the problems. Circle the expression you hear each speaker uses to give
a reason for a problem or respond to a difficult request.
Number 1:
Hi, Mr. Green. This is Janet Day, and I’m returning your call from earlier today. I understand that you’re
interested in having some pipes delivered. As you know, we don’t deliver. It’s not our usual policy, and
we don’t have a delivery truck. However, since this is an emergency and you’re such a good customer, we
might be able to help. One option would be to check with East Plumbing Supply. I know they deliver.
Maybe they could pick up the pipe and bring it over to you. Another option would be for us to rent a truck
and bring the pipes. If we did that, then you would need to pay for the delivery and for the rental cost. Just
give me a call back and let me know if one of these options will work.
Number 2:
Hello, I’m calling for Ms. Strand. My name’s Percy Rogers with Smith Hotels, and we just got your
message. We’d like to apologize for the problem with your room. We understand that you’re upset that
you didn’t get the room you wanted. I’ve checked your reservation, and everything seems to be in order. It
was probably a mistake with the computer system. It didn’t record the additional request for the deluxe

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double room. I can arrange for another room. In order to make up for the mistake, we’re going to give you
the deluxe double room at the cost of a single. Someone will come to your new room and give you your
key. We’re very sorry about any inconvenience.
Number 3:
Good morning, Mr. Arnold. This is Karen Stall with First Bank. I just wanted to get back to you about
your message. We’re sorry to hear that your card isn’t working. I know this is especially frustrating
because you’re travelling, so we want to help you as soon as possible. I talked to our customer service
center, and it seems that the card was stopped because there were charges in another country. This might
be because of your travel. I just need to ask you a few security questions. Then we should be able to fix
things or send you another card immediately. Please call me back as soon as possible. And in the future,
it’s usually best to let us know if you’re going somewhere. That way, we can avoid stopping the card.
Thank you very much for calling, and we look forward to helping you solve your problem.

TASK 2: Read each complaint or request. Think of at least one reason why the problem could have
happened or why the request is difficult. Then write sentences to explain the reason or respond to the
difficult request. Use the expressions from the chart above. Then practice saying the responses aloud.

1. A woman’s dress was ruined by a greasy elevator. ……………………….

………………………………………………………………………………………
2. A man wants to get a doctor’s appointment today, but there isn’t one available.
…………………………………………………………………………………..
3. A taxi that a man ordered is late. ……………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………….

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 LESSON 8: FURTHER PRACTICE FOR TOEIC PART 5

TASK 1: Read the voicemail and make notes about the content.

Hello. This is George Smith at 602-555-8943. I ordered a coffeemaker from your website. It just arrived
today. When I took it out of the box, it looked fine, but I couldn’t get it to work. I plugged it in and
carefully followed the instructions for adding coffee and water. Then, when I pressed the power button,
the little green light went on, but nothing happened. The water didn’t heat up, the coffee didn’t brew, and
the machine didn’t make any sound at all. I don’t know if there is an easy way to fix this or what I should
do. I really would like a coffeemaker that works, as I’m expecting guests next week. Please let me know
what I can do about this. Thanks.
Notes
1. Name of caller:
2. Is it a request or a complaint (or both)?
3. Main problem:……………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………..
4. What happened:
5. Why it is a problem:……………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………
6. Special requests (if any):…………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………….

TASK 2:
Read the sample response to the message in Part A. Notice how the person organize the response. Then
complete the sentences below.
Sample Response
Thank you for calling us, Mr. Smith. My name is Carrie Jones. I understand that you haven’t been able to
get your new coffeemaker to work. I realize how frustrating this must be. There could be an issue with the
coffeemaker or with the programming. I’d like to suggest that you look at page 10 in the instruction
manual. There you will see some instructions for fixing common problems. If that doesn’t solve the

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problem for you, you can return the coffeemaker to us. Just repack it in its box and mail it to us at the
dress in the manual. We will send you a new coffeemaker. We will do your best to get it to you by the
beginning of next week. Thanks so much for calling, and please accept our apologies for the problem.
1. Apologize and show understanding of the problem.
I understand that you haven’t been able to………………………………………..
………………….. I realize how………………………………………………..
………………..this must be.
2. Give a possible explanation.
There could be………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………..
or …………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………….
3. Summarize the two solutions in your own words.
a…………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………
b………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………..
4. Give a closing statement.
Thanks so much for……………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………..
and please accept our apologies for the……………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………

TASK 3:
Read the message in Task 1 again. Then complete the template below to respond to the message. Use
phrases from Task 2 or your own ideas. Practice your response aloud and record it if possible. Be sure to
check the amount of time you use!
Response:
[Greeting and introduction]……………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………..
[Apologize/ Show understanding]……………………………………………

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……………………………………………………………………………
[Possible explanation]……………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………..
[Solution 1/ Details 1]………………………………………….............
…………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………….
[Solution 2/ Details 2]………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………….
[Closing statement]……………………………………………………….....

TASK 4: Read the message and then give your response. Time yourself as you speak and record your
response if possible.

Speaking Test
Question 10 of 11
Directions: In Question 10, you will hear about a problem and you will propose a
solution. You will have 30 seconds to prepare your response. You will have 60 seconds
to speak.

Respond as if you are a businessperson.

In your response, you should

- show that you understand the problem, and
- propose a solution for the problem.

Message:

Hello, Mr. Peters. This is Pat Clark. I’m calling about our appointment this afternoon. I had agreed to meet
with you about our new construction project. Unfortunately, something has come up, and I won’t be free

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at 2:00, so I have to cancel our appointment. I’m very sorry for this. I’m still interested in meeting with
you. I’m busy most of the rest of the week – this is a really busy time of the year for us – but I will
probably have some time available in my schedule next week. If there’s any time next week that you’re
free, then I hope we can reschedule the meeting. I don’t know what you wanted to discuss, so I hope next
week won’t be too late for you. Please call me back soon and let me know. Thank you.

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 LESSON 9: INTRODUCTION TO PART 6 – EXPRESS AN OPINION- AND
TYPES OF TOPICS

I. Language Focus
In Question 11 of the Speaking test, you will be asked to state your opinion about a topic. You will be
asked to agree or disagree with a statement, explain a preference, or discuss your opinion of a situation.
The question will appear on-screen and will be ready by a narrator. You will have 15 seconds to prepare
your response and 60 seconds to speak. You will be scored on your ability to respond appropriately to the
task, state your opinion clearly, and support it with examples. In addition, you will be evaluated on
pronunciation, stress and intonation, grammar, vocabulary, cohesion, and relevance and completeness of
content.
Things to remember:
1. First, form an opinion statement.
2. Next, think of three or four key points that support your opinion.
3. Begin your answer by stating your opinion.
4. Then list your supporting key points.
5. After each key point, give additional details about it, including personal information,
reasons, and examples.

1. Language Focus 1: Familiarize yourself with the question types. There are three main types of
questions that you can expect to see on the text: opinion, agreement/disagreement, and preference. It is
important to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you may encounter so that you can quickly
prepare a response that is relevant and addresses the question clearly. Learn to watch for key questions,
words and phrases to tell you what the question is asking for.
Types of Essay Key questions, Words and Examples of Typical Questions
Questions Phrases

Preference Which do you think is better Some people want to work at home.
and why? Others prefer to work in an office.
Which do you prefer and why? Which type of job would you prefer
Would you rather X or Y? and why?

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 Do you prefer X or Y? Would you rather work for a big
Some…Others… corporation or for a small company?
Give reasons and examples to support
your answer.

Opinion What do you think? At some jobs, employees are allowed

What is your opinion? issue to listen to music while they work.
…people think that…. What is your opinion on this issue?
Give reasons and examples to support
your opinion.

Agreement / Do you agree or disagree…? Do you agree or disagree with the

Disagreement Would you be in favor of…? following statement? “ If you work
Statement hard, you will be successful.” Give
Plan reasons and details to support your
answer.
Your company is planning to lay off
several older employees. They want
to do this so they can hire more new
employees at lower salaries. Would
you be in favor of this plan? Give
reasons and examples to support your
choice.

2. Language Focus 2: Think about what the question is mainly asking for and how you feel about it. You
have only 15 seconds to prepare your response, so you need to quickly form an opinion. Therefore, it is
important to be able to understand exactly what the question is asking for as soon as possible. That way,
you will have time to think about key supporting points and how you will organize your response.

II. Practice
TASK 1: Read each question or statement and choose the letter of the next part.
1. Some people like working at home better than working in an office.

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2. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?
3. Would you rather shop online or go to a store?
4. There is a plan to offer free wireless service in your city, but there will be a slight tax increase as a
result.
5. Many people feel that taking time to relax is the key to being productive at work and at home.
6. Some people think that all young people should be able to attend college for free.
a. “People should get a pay raise every year, even if they don’t perform well”
b. Would you be in favor of the planned tax increase? Give reasons and details to support your
answer.
c.What’s your opinion about free education? Support your answer with reasons and detail.
d. Give your reasons and examples to support your shopping preference.
e. How do you feel about taking tim to relax? Does it make people more productive? Use
reasons and examples to support your opinion?
f. Which work environment do you prefer and why?

TASK 2: Read the questions from TASK 1. As quickly as possible, circle the letter of the main
information each question is asking for. Then think about about your own opinion on the topic.
1. a. My opinion about working at home.
b. Would I like to work at home or in an office
c. If I agree that working at home is better
2. a. Would I like a pay raise every year, even if I don’t perform well.
b. My opinion about giving a pay raise every year.
c. If I agree or disagree that yearly pay raises should not be based on
performance
3. a. If I like to shop at home or in stores
b. If I agree or disagree that online shopping is more popular.
c. My opinion about online shopping.
4. a. My opinion about free wireless services offered by cities.
b. Would I like free wireless in my city or a slight tax increase.
c. If I would agree or disagree to pay more taxes for free wireless Internet.
5. a. Would I like having more time to relax at work.

36
 b. Would I agree or disagree that a relaxation at work is good.
c. My opinion about taking time to relax to increase productivity.
6. a. My opinion about offering all young people a free college education.
b. Would I agree that young people want a free college education
c. Would I like to attend college for free

37
 LESSON 10: COMMON WAYS TO EXPRESS OPINIONS

I. Language Focus
DESCRIPTION OF QUESTION TYPE
In this section of the test, you will be asked to give your opinion about something: advertising, economic
justice, parenting, etc. The topics will be fairly specific. You will have just 15 seconds to prepare your
answer, which is not enough time to work your answer out in writing. You will essentially be speaking on
the spot. However, the good news is, your answer is your opinion so there is no right or wrong answer.
You are also free to tailor your answer around your strengths and weaknesses in spoken English.
There will be one question of this type on the test. Get used to the format as you preview the following
question. Look at a sample Express an Opinon question below.

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.
11. Some people believe that money brings happiness. Others believe that the source of happiness is love. Still,
some believe that true happiness can never be experienced on this earth. How do you think people can
acquire true happiness? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. (60 seconds)
Vocabulary: source acquire specific

1.Language Focus 1: COMMON WAYS TO EXPRESS OPINIONS

1.1.Personal Point of View

We use these words and phrases to express a personal point of view:
In my experience…
As far as I'm concerned…
Speaking for myself…
In my opinion…
Personally, I think…
I'd say that…
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 I'd suggest that…
I'd like to point out that…
I believe that…
What I mean is…

1.2.General Point of View

We use these words and phrases to express a point of view that is generally thought by people:
It is thought that...
Some people say that...
It is considered...
It is generally accepted that...

1.3.Agreeing with an opinion

We use these words and phrases to agree with someone else's point of view:
Of course.
You're absolutely right.
Yes, I agree.
I think so too.
That's a good point.
Exactly.
I don't think so either.
So do I.
I'd go along with that.
That's true.
Neither do I.
I agree with you entirely.
That's just what I was thinking.
I couldn't agree more.
1.4.Disagreeing with an opinion
We use these words and phrases to disagree with someone else's point of view:
That's different.

39
I don't agree with you.
However…
That's not entirely true.
On the contrary…
I'm sorry to disagree with you, but…
Yes, but don't you think…
That's not the same thing at all.
I'm afraid I have to disagree.
I'm not so sure about that.
I must take issue with you on that.
It's unjustifiable to say that...

II. Practice
TASK 1:
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.

There is a lot of talk about how humans affect the climate. Many argue that we must all change our
habits. But others think that individuals can’t have a significant impact on the climate. What is your
opinion on and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. (60 seconds)

Rate your response based on the criteria in the chart below. If you have a study partner who can listen to
your response, ask him or her to help rate your response as well.

Criteria Comments How to improve

Pronunciation, Intonation &
Flow

Grammar & Vocabulary

40
Details, Examples &
Relevance

The teacher will show you a sample of a poor response and a good one. How are they different from
yours? How are they similar?

TASK 2
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.

Every year, there is a new diet that tells us to change our eating habits completely. First, we weren’t
supposed to eat fat. But then we were supposed to eat as much fat as we wanted, as long as we also ate a
lot of protein. What do you think of conflicting dietary advice? How much should people listen to it?
Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. (60 seconds)

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 LESSON 11
PRACTICE EXPRESSING OPINIONS WITH
AN ANSWER TEMPLATE AND COMPARISON FORMS

I. Language Focus
1. Language Focus 1: Using a template answer
As you learned in Chapter 5, an answer template is best used as a backup plan in case you don’t
understand the prompt or feel for some other reasons that you are not going to be able to give a reasonable
answer. Remember that in this section of the test, you are asked to express your opinion - the test scorers
have no idea what your opinion is, so you are free to tailor your answer around what you can and cannot
comfortably express in English. Even so, it never hurts to have a backup plan. Here is a template that wall
work for most questions on this section of the test:

You may encounter some questions that require you to modify the template. Not all questions will present
a problem, for example, so you may need to cut off the last sentence or rephrase the topic as a problem.
Using the template will also require that you take notes. Your notes for Exercise 5 of this chapter would
look like this:
Topic
Side A
Side B
Side you agree with
Example of side you agree with

42
Using the template and the notes to respond to Exercise 5 of this chapter, you would answer:

Memorize the answer template, and then use it to answer the prompts in the following exercises.
1.1. Practice
TASK 1
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.

11. Public schools are under a lot of pressure to make sure the slowest students get special help. But
some people complain that, as a result, teachers aren’t doing enough to challenge good students. Which
viewpoint do you agree with? Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer. (60 seconds)

Rate your response based on the criteria in the chart below. If you have a study partner who can listen to
your response, ask him or her to help rate your response as well.

Criteria Comments How to improve

Pronunciation, Intonation &
Flow

Grammar & Vocabulary

Details, Examples &
Relevance

The teacher will show you a sample of a poor response and a good one. How are they different from
yours? How are they similar?

43
2. Language Focus 2: Comparison Forms
In this section of the test, you are essentially being asked to use your opinions to justify ranking a set of
things-which are more important or more interesting. Therefore, you need to know more about
comparison forms so as to you them quickly and comfortably during the test. COMPARISON FORMS

EQUALITY
Comparing with as….as…
1. ….(not) as + adj. ….. as…
 The sales were as high as we projected
 She is not as intelligent as we expected
2. …..(not) as + adv. …. as…
 The turnover this year has increased as much as last year.
 She didn’t come as early as we thought

COMPARATIVES
 Form
• Short Adj:

• Long Adj:

 Ex
• Mary is taller than Max
• This morning is more peaceful than yesterday morning.
PRACTICE: Compare each pair of pictures below:

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SUPERLATIVES
 Form
• Short Adj: S + V + the + adv/adj + est
• Long Adj : S + V + the most + adv/adj
 EX
• Max's story is the longest story I've ever heard
• My dog is the biggest of all the dogs in the neighborhood.

45
Large larger the largest
Now, let’s try a practice exercise. Express your opinion about the things below by using a comparative
form of the adjective indicated. Sample answers are on p. 64, Answer Key Book.
Example:
• big dogs/small dogs: cute -> I think big dogs are cuter than small dogs.
1. green tomatoes/red tomatoes: ripe ->
2. short hair/long hair: practical ->
3. curtains/blinds: attractive ->
4. the bus/the subway: convenient ->
5. Koreans/Americans: friendly ->
2.2. Practice
Now use at least 2 comparative forms as you express your opinion in the following exercise.
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.
11. Modern life demands that we work a lot. Working hard is the only way to achieve success. But our
work schedules don’t leave much time for family and personal growth. How important is that time? What
is the price society pays for cutting it out? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. 60
seconds)

46
 LESSON 12
TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR OPINION EXPRESSIONS
FOR PART 6.
I. Language Focus
Structuring your response correctly is important to be sure your answer is well organized and easily
understood. It will also help ensure you address all points in the prompt.

1. Language Focus 1 Start by giving a basic statement of your opinion and introducing your supporting
statements. You can start your answer by restating the question and then adding your opinion. You will
often be able to use the same verb and many of the same words that are in the prompt. This helps make a
strong opening statement and shows that you understand what the question is asking.

2. Language Focus 2: Follow up with the statement to introduce your main points. When possible, you
should follow your statement of opinion with a sentence that introduces the main points to support your
opinion. This helps organize your response and give you time to think. Use expressions like the ones in
the chart to introduce what you will be talking about.

47
II. Practice

TASK 1
Change the questions into statements giving your opinion
1. Your boss has said that all employees must attend a three-day company trip every year. How
would you feel about this?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
2. If you were planning a vacation, would you prefer to go to the beach or to the mountains?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
3. Your company offers you the option to receive a raise in exchange for getting fewer vacation days.
Which would you prefer, getting a pay raise or keeping your vacation days?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
4. Some people think that young people should not be able to drive until they are 21. What do you
think?
…………………………………………………………………………………………

TASK 2
Write statements introducing support to go with your statements of opinionin the Task 1. Use the
expressions like those in the chart above.
1…………………………………………………………………………………………
2…………………………………………………………………………………………
3………………………………………………………………………………………….
4………………………………………………………………………………………….

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 LESSON 13
TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR OPINION EXPRESSIONS
FOR PART 6. (Cont’d)

I. Language Focus
Language Focus 3: Support your opinion with three key points with additional details. In order to score
well on Question 11, you must include support for your opinion. You can do this by giving key points that
offer reasons for an opinion or arguments for or against a viewpoint. This chart gives some basic phrases
for introducing key points.

4. Language Focus 4: Close with a restatement of opinion. If you have time left after giving your
supporting information, bring your response to a conclusion. Restate your original opinion and recap the
main key points. Use phrases like those in the chart.

II. Practice

TASK 1: Write three key points to support your own opinions for the questions.
1. In my opinion, taking time to relax is the key to being productive.

Key point 1:……………………………………………………………………….

Key point 2:………………………………………………………………………..

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Key point 3:………………………………………………………………………..

2. I guess I prefer to go shop online rather than shop in the store.

Key point 1:……………………………………………………………………….

Key point 2:………………………………………………………………………..

Key point 3:………………………………………………………………………..

3. I strongly disagree with the statement, “People should get a pay raise every year, even if they
don’t perform well.”
Key point 1:……………………………………………………………………….

Key point 2:………………………………………………………………………..

Key point 3:………………………………………………………………………..

4. I guess I prefer to work at home.

Key point 1:……………………………………………………………………….

Key point 2:………………………………………………………………………..

Key point 3:………………………………………………………………………..

5. In my opinion, all young people should be able to attend college for free.
Key point 1:……………………………………………………………………….

Key point 2:………………………………………………………………………..

Key point 3:………………………………………………………………………..

6. I would not be in favor of the planned tax issue.
Key point 1:……………………………………………………………………….

Key point 2:………………………………………………………………………..

Key point 3:………………………………………………………………………..

TASK 2: Write concluding statements for these opinions.

1. …………………………………………………………..... I think that electric cars will not solve
the word’s population problems.
2. ……………………………………………………………..I agree that if you work hard, you will
be successful.
3. ……………………………………………………………..I would rather work for a small
company.

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 LESSON 14: BASIC PRACTICE FOR PART 6

TASK 1: Read the sample question. Then answer the questions that follow to help prepare for your
response.

Question:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? “Young people should not be allowed to drive
cars until they are twenty-one years old.”Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

TASK 2: The sample response below is not in the correct order. Write numbers to order the
sentences from 1-9.

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TASK 3: Now think about your response. Then read the statements below. How well did your
response meet the scoring criteria? Check YES or NO. Keep practicing until all of your
answers are YES.

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