Vocabulary:

▪ to attend classes
▪ bachelor’s degree/ master’s degree
▪ boarding school
▪ distance learning / online education
▪ face-to-face classes / classes delivered on campus
▪ compulsory education
▪ co-educational school / mixed-sex school. OPP: single-sex school
▪ to fall behind with one’s studies: to fail to make progress in studies
▪ to provide feedback
▪ a graduation ceremony
▪ an intensive course
▪ to keep up with one’s studies: to catch up with study load
▪ to learn something by heart / to memorize
▪ to meet a deadline: to finish a job or task in the time allowed or agreed
▪ to play truant: to stay away from classes without permission
▪ private language school
▪ public schools: exclusive independent schools in the UK
▪ to sit an exam: to take an exam
▪ subject specialist
▪ to take a year out: to take a gap year
▪ tuition fees
▪ to work one’s way through university: to work and study simultaneously
▪ to pay off the student loan: to finish the loan
▪ to be disqualified because of the cheating
▪ to revise the notes prior to the exam
▪ to follow invigilator’s instructions
▪ to excel in sth: to upskill in sth
▪ humanities
▪ to be adept at = to be very good at
▪ bookworm/ to be eager-beaver
▪ to go the extra mile: to put all the efforts
▪ attendance
▪ absence mark
▪ to put a mark
▪ to mark smb down
▪ compulsory or optional subjects
▪ assignment
▪ to assign a homework/task
▪ tutorials
▪ to get passing grades
▪ to finish with distinction
▪ school curriculum
▪ a final-year student/senior student
▪ a freshman/ junior student
▪ sophomore: a second-year university student
▪ a last year student/ senior student
▪ to major in smth/ to do a degree in
▪ to enroll for
▪ to miss/skip lessons/lectures
▪ to be a qualified [job title] / to qualify in [subject]
▪ to drop out of university: to stop going to classes
▪ to goof around: to spend time foolishly
▪ to pass with flying colors: to pass successfully
▪ to broaden horizons: to increase general knowledge
▪ literate/educated/ well-educated/qualified individuals
▪ literacy rate
▪ to be involved in extracurricular activities
▪ to be engaged in group projects/research work
▪ to conduct/carry out research
Phrases in sentences

▪ I like my studies because they provide:

▪ In-depth training in a specialized field
▪ An opportunity to acquire profound knowledge and communicate with fellow
students
▪ Students are engaged in extensive extra-curricular activities
▪ I receive a reward and positive feedback for my effort
▪ I have friendly, approachable and knowledgeable teachers
▪ We study subjects that are vitally important for our future and will help us to succeed
in our future career
▪ We have team projects through which we build up our communication skills and
learn to collaborate

▪ I dislike:
▪ Too much theory and too little practical experience
▪ Too many assignments that none of us can do them thoroughly
▪ My teachers get angry for no obvious reason. They are too strict and restrict our
freedom. They do not motivate us either.
▪ Teachers pile too much work onto us
▪ We are taught subjects that are of no practical utility and irrelevant to my future
career
▪ We are supposed to memorize amounts of unnecessary information
▪ The school curriculum does not take into consideration individual differences and
capabilities of students
▪ I also dislike team projects because everyone gets the same grade irrespective of how
much each person has done as well as Involvement and participation of members are
unequal
Exam Questions

Part 1

Do you work or study?

▪ I neither work nor study. At the moment I have a bachelor’s degree and I am planning
to apply for a master’s degree as soon as I have met the requirements of the program.
I guess I have missed the boat for the fall semester, so I ll try not to miss the deadline
for applying for the winter one
▪ I am a student, and this is my final year at school. Now I am working hard in order to
get passing grades to enter the college in Canada. If everything goes smoothly, I’ll
already be studying there, majoring in journalism.

What do you dislike about your studies?

▪ As a high school student I can safely say that I dislike school very strongly mainly
because Teachers pile too much work onto us that we hardly get 5 hours of sleep a
night. No matter when you go to bed, you must wake up early. To top it off, most
subjects are boring and irrelevant to my future career. So it causes a lot of stress,
making me and my fellow students reluctant to study.
▪ Well, my pet hate is that the school curriculum does not take into consideration
individual differences and capabilities of students. Despite the fact that we all are
different we are supposed to study the same subjects at the same pace. Also, I do not
like the fact that our education system relies heavily on teamwork. Of course I realize
that they are trying to teach us to collaborate and team work skills, but I think that it is
not fair that Everyone gets the same grade irrespective of how much each person has
done while involvement and participation of members are unequal

Are you studying English at a school?

Yes … I’m taking an intensive course at a local private language school … I attend
classes three times a week And I plan on pursuing my studies in the future, too...

Would you say you are a good student?

I’m OK I think …Despite the fact that I am neither eager-beaver nor a teacher’s pet, I’m pretty
good at meeting deadlines and I’m keeping up with my studies… plus, I find it quite easy
to learn things by heart which is useful when learning a language …

When you were younger did you enjoy your time at school?
It was an ordinary state school, nothing special, a single-sex school … which I’m not sure I
liked … but the teachers were great … I had lots of friends and I never played truant like
some pupils there

Do you like studying at school?

I've never really liked school... I'm not a bookworm and a lot of humanities subjects seemed
too boring to me. However, the workload was not too big... The other good thing about
school is being able to see your friends. And fortunately, I had wonderful classmates.

What was your favorite subject as a child?

I loved English as young and I still love it. Those English literature stories have always
aroused interest in me and made me read them more. I started writing when I was in class IX
and too an extent I think it was my love towards English that has helped me shape my career.

Who was your favorite teacher?

My favorite teachers have changed over a period of time. However, I remember Swatantra Sir
because of his deep faith in me. He was one of the teachers who asked me to improve on my
English and take part in different activities. I remember him giving all of us lot of advises on
how to live a better life.

What is the education system like in your country?

Our country follows the British education system, so it is mostly revolving around lot of
research work instead of practical. However, in recent times, with coming of Internet and
smart classes, there has been a considerable shift towards practical, although it still remains
research oriented at the fundamental level.

Do you think your country has effective education system?

Too an extent it is effective. So, when talking about the education provided till class 12th, it is
great. But, when it goes on to higher education, I think it does lack, in a sense that it is only
the best colleges that have good facilities and getting into them is quite tough, because of
seat limitations. I think if some how either the number of seats to good colleges be increased
or better facilities are provided to other colleges, we can hope things get better.

Part 2

✓ Describe a time during your education that you really enjoyed. You should say:

• when this period was

• where you were
 • what you were studying at the time
• why you were so happy.

I’d like to tell you about my time at university … I was a mature student … I didn’t go to
university until I was 25 … and it was my first time away from my parents so it was very
exciting … I was doing a Bachelors Degree and it was a bit of a challenge … some
people take a year out but I’d been away from education for 8 years … plus I had to work
my way through university so I was very busy … and sitting exams at the end of each
year was a new experience for me as well but I really enjoyed higher education learning
about a subject I loved … history … and the social life was great as well. I’m thinking of doing
a Masters Degree soon … though that might be through distance learning as I have a full-
time job now …

✓ Describe a period of time from your studies that was the most difficult for you so far.
You should say:

• When it was
• Why was it hard
• What you were doing at that time

I would like to talk about my last school year. It was really diffucult due to enormous
amounts of homework I had to do and all the exams I had to prepare for... Em, so I studied
hard, having no time to goof around ... Moreover, I forgot a lot of things from the school
curriculum, that's why I had to do a lot of revision... But despite the tough preparation, I
managed to set aside some time to rest and interact with my friends and family... After all,
my efforts were not in vain... I passed all the exams well and was admitted to the university of
my dream.

Describe a teacher who had a profound effect on you and your education:

I met Aydin in my elementary school. Actually, He was my mentor and with his direct supports
and suggestions, I have crossed many of the barriers of my life - both academic and personal.
So, I am really grateful to him and have been greatly inspired by his teaching techniques. If he
did not guide me in my education, I think I would not be able to arrive in this position today.
Mr. Aydin was the teacher of general science in the school. He was really a great teacher and
used to teach in some unconventional methods. He hardly used books or other teaching
materials for teaching in the classroom. He also had some other techniques to impress the
students. And most importantly, he knew all the names of his students which I had never seen
before.

He was special in the sense that he knew how to teach the students. Mr. Aydin also
supported his students in some other matters and mentored like his own children. The other
most important thing about him is that he used to keep in touch with the parents of the
children. He regularly updated the parents with the latest information about their kids. As a
result, he turned into a popular figure among the parent community.

I am highly influenced by this person. He had some special ways to complete things. He was
straightforward and never turned biased to any of his students. He loved all the kids like his
own children which attracted me most. Whenever I met him with some sort of troubles, he
guided me the way out of them. So, I like him much.

Part 3

What qualities do you think a good teacher has?

Well, a good teacher should possess some qualities. The most important thing about being a
teacher is to communicate effectively. If the teacher fails to communicate with students, the
teaching would be unsuccessful. Students usually follow their teachers. Hence, the teacher
should also be punctual, honest and sincere in executing responsibilities. The teacher should
also know how to manage the classroom. The teacher must have a good command on the
students to maintain discipline in the classroom. The personality of a teacher should be
different from other and obviously, s/ he should have vast knowledge on the relevant subject
matter. They should be subject specialists and be able to explain the subject clearly. They
should give feedback quickly, for example, they should not hang on to essay for ages like
some of my teachers. Last but not least, every teacher should be able to catch student's
attention.

What are the advantages of studying on a distance learning course?

It’s a more flexible way of studying especially if you have a job … tuition fees are usually
cheaper … but you have to be very motivated … and I would imagine more people fall
behind with their studies compared to face-to-face classes.

Do all children get equal opportunities in education?

In my country I think it is quite equal but in the UK I’ve heard that most people who go to the
top universities have studied at public schools … you have to be very rich to study in a
school like that … they’re usually boarding schools as well so the fees are enormous …

Definitely not. I think it really depends on a country you live in... Moreover, it depends on
your financial capabilities... Some schools and universities are just too expensive... Only
a small fraction of people can afford to study there.

Further questions:

Is higher education too expensive in your country?

I think that it is very costly to go into higher education in my country. They recently
hiked the prices up, making it extremely difficult for most people to affor d it. On the
one hand, spending thousands on an education is worth every penny, but on the
other hand, it can bring years of debt to a student and their family. In today's
society, no one is guaranteed to get a good job straight after university, so these
course fee debts often continue to follow people around for life.

Should all students pay for their university education?

In my view, many students should be entitled to have a free higher education,

especially if they can't afford the fees but have consistent high grades. For those
who are high achievers getting a paid tuition to the university of their choice could
be life-changing. For example in many countries in Europe, they offer free higher
education to those who obtain high grades in high school, which encourages them to
develop their learning and progress into a good profession.

What advantages do universities bring to society?

I think that there are many positive things that universities can offer the
communities around them. They bring students into the area for one, which means
housing will be in demand. They will spend money on food, go out and books for
their course, making the town or city a buzzing hub of student life. For the students
they benefit from having a high level of education, which can then be translated into
skills in the workplace, keeping society going with their knowledge.

Which is more important, research or teaching?

I think that for those who prefer to research, they enter programmes for further
education, like completing a Master's degree or a PhD. This can develop a further
understanding of a subject and allow the person to develop their research skills.
Many people who complete these higher levels of education, also teach as a way of
sharing their knowledge and gaining respect from their peers. You can't really teach
at that level without undertaking some sort of extensive research, there fore I see
them of equal importance.

How should students spend their summer vacations?

In my opinion, I think that students should spend some time relaxing during the
summer break but should also continue to study and read. A better way to make use
of all of that time off is to get an internship or other work experience that will be
useful for their CV. They could also have a paid part -time job so that they can save
money for the forthcoming school year. When completing a degree, it is really useful
to gain experience from internships, save money and continue to study. Making the
most of all of that free time is important. Being idle during that time period is not
really going to help them to go anywhere in the future.

How has education changed in your country in the last 10 years?

The education system in my country went through numerous changes in the last decade and
the use of technology is the most noteworthy. Besides, teachers are more trained today and
have a much friendlier relationship with students, unlike the past. The exam system has been
revamped and more emphasis is put on the practical exams these days.

What changes do you foresee in the next 50 years?

50-years is a long period and it is really hard to predict the changes especially the pace in
which technology is advancing. After 5 decades, the education system in our country will go
through a paradigm shift, I believe. Changes in the education system of Cyprus would be
much prominent. The classrooms might be remodelled, application of multimedia will be very
common and even there might be systems to learn sitting at home. The students might not
need to visit the educational institutions physically. And textbooks may also disappear with
the passage of time. The robots and computers would be the main mentors and the exam
system would be fully automated and computer-based
What method of learning works best for you?

In fact, I can adapt to all types of learning methods. But I think the multimedia classes are
more effective to me than the conventional way of learning from textbooks. I often use video
tutorials for lessons that I find hard to grasps.

How beneficial do you think it is to group students according to their level of ability?

Forming groups based on the students’ level is highly beneficial for them. When some of the
students of the same level gather in the same place, they can share their knowledge. And this
is helpful to expand their realm of knowledge and learning becomes easier for them. The
teachers, on the other hand, can prepare lessons according to the average skill level of these
students. I personally believe that grouping similar students in terms of their capability and
talent is far more beneficial than a mixed group.

How technology has changed the way people learn new things?

The use of technology has made learning easier. Earlier, people had to struggle a lot to learn
new things. But with the course of time, learning system has evolved for the blessing of
technology. For instance, the use of chalk-boards vanishes from classrooms. Teachers either
use white-board or multimedia presentations while teaching. Technology has made
communication during learning easier. Students and teachers interact through latest
communication devices. The textbooks have been modified and the rise of e-books is another
example that technology has changed the learning system. Distant learning is the other
impressive way that technology has added to learning
 Bonus Sentences

Foreign Languages

• People that excel in foreign languages usually have a successful career.

• Being able to speak several foreign languages can help your acceptance
to scholarship programmes.
• Students that are exposed to two or more different foreign languages acquire better
communicative abilities and have access to two different worlds.
• Some people have an innate ability to learn languages easily and this ability usually
opens up career opportunities as it makes a favourable impression to potential
employers.
• When a student tries to immerse himself/herself in a language, she/he should avoid
using the dominant language and find ways to maximise his/her exposure to the
new language.
• Being fluent in a foreign language is not only a medium of communication but also a
medium that surpasses language barriers.
• The school system should reinforce the knowledge of foreign languages by making
them compulsory and by new teaching methods that will make learning easy and fun.
• People fluent in two or more different languages learn to embrace diverse cultures.
• People that are able to speak foreign languages usually have high self-esteem.
Vocabulary:

▪ A highly-skilled/ well-qualified professional/expert/specialist in the field of…

▪ To apply for a job/post/promotion
▪ To specialize in (field)
▪ To be qualified for (job)
▪ To be responsible, accountable for/ to be in charge of…
▪ To be between jobs: to be unemployed
▪ To go the extra mile: to put all the efforts
▪ To learn the ropes: to learn basics of how to perform the task
▪ To know something inside out: to know sth very well
▪ To buckle down: to work hard and put effort towards something after not having done
so
▪ To have a solid background in ____ (ex: IT)
▪ To land a(an)__________ job to secure/to get a job
▪ Arduous/challenging/labour-intensive/physically demanding/ monotonous/
repetitive/unpaid/badly paid/lucrative/indoor/outdoor/freelance/day-to-
day/demanding/dead-end job/well-paid/low-paid/9-to-5/permanent/temporary/high-
powered/decent
▪ Land a job straight out of school: to get a job immediately after school
▪ To promote smb/ to get promoted
▪ To receive adequate remuneration: to get sufficient salary
▪ To resign from work: to quit the job
▪ To hand in your notice: to tell your employer that you intend to leave your job soon
within a set period of time.
▪ To make redundant: to dismiss a person/ employees
▪ To dismiss/ to fire someone: ending employee’s contract
▪ To get the sack: to be fired/dismissed
▪ To offer a position
▪ To upskill: undergo trainings to build up one’s capacity
▪ To pursue a career in something
▪ A job which is in line with ( my qualification/talent)
▪ to be called for an interview
▪ to do a job-share
▪ a heavy workload/ to be overloaded/overburdened/piled up with (tasks/increasing
workload)
▪ holiday entitlement
▪ job satisfaction
▪ maternity/paternity leave
▪ to meet a deadline
▪ one of the perks (benefits) of the job is that …..
▪ perks and the fridge benefits
 ▪ to be self-employed: to run your own business. OPP: to work for smb
▪ to be entitled to sick leave
▪ to be stuck behind a desk
▪ to take early retirement
▪ working conditions
▪ to work with your hands: to do manual job
▪ Throw a sickie: to call your employees and let them know that you will not attend as
you are sick
▪ to have a hectic schedule
▪ Shift work
▪ Morning/Night shift
▪ To take up challenges
▪ Tempting offer
▪ Make a decent living out of (this)job: to make good amount of money through the job
▪ To cover the expenditures/ increasing costs
▪ To be able to apply the knowledge
▪ To take paid/unpaid leave
▪ To be well paid. Opp: To be badly/poorly paid
▪ To maintain the balance of work and (family/study): To juggle work and family
responsibilities

Phrases in Sentences

▪ To do a job swap
▪ After doing a job swap, I just got a living wage which didn’t commensurate with my
experience & ability.
▪ Carve a niche for myself ( as someone)
▪ After graduating, I practiced medicine for a number of years in London. I managed
to carve a niche for myself as a specialist in dermatology.
▪ Earn a good living/ make living/
▪ I had a substantial volume of work – private students and marking exams – and was
able to earn a good living
▪ To take time off
▪ Taking time off is one of the best ways to re-engage your mind and make yourself
more productive
▪ Move up the ladder:
▪ I was put on a fast-track scheme and was moving up the ladder fast
▪ To start massive layoffs/ to lay off the staff
▪ My start-up went through a difficult period and had to lay off staff
Expressions

▪ Choosing this job was a bit of dilemma for me

▪ Choosing this job was a tough decision
▪ I did not have a clue what I wanted to do with my life
▪ My parents insisted on my choosing it
▪ It was a good match for my talents
▪ I was a whiz at..
▪ It was in line with my qualification
▪ Poorly organized and unproductive meetings.
▪ Feel recognized and respected
▪ To move initiatives forward
▪ To be tired of rat race
▪ Provide a work-life balance
▪ Provide smb with a competitive/decent salary
▪ Allows me to work remotely/ to work flexible hours
▪ I am not paid overtime
▪ I am not kept informed/posted
▪ What I particularly dislike is …..
▪ The only thing I dislike is….
▪ What I like best about my job is….
▪ To reap the fruits of hard work
▪ To derive considerable benefits
Exam Questions

Part 1

Do you work or study?

▪ I am a student and this is my final year at school. Now I am working hard in order to
get passing grades to enter college in Canada. If everything goes smoothly six months
from now I’ll already be studying there. I want to major in journalism as I have a
burning passion for writing essays and articles. I am going to do a three-year course at
X college
▪ I neither work nor study. At the moment I have a bachelor’s degree and I am planning
to apply for a master’s degree as soon as I meet the requirements of the program. I
have missed the boat for the fall semester, so I ll try not to miss the deadline for
applying for the winter one. I want to pursue a career in IT.
▪ Currently I am unemployed. A year ago the company I was working for started massive
layoffs so, as a result, I was made redundant. Now I am looking for a job which would
be in line with my qualification and experience.
▪ I do a job-share with a friend in a boutique. I like working with customers …
unfortunately it’s only temporary work but one of the perks of the job is I get a discount
on the clothes, beside it, I do not get stuck behind a desk doing something boring

Why did you choose this job?

▪ One of the principal reasons was that I was always good at numbers. As far as I
remember, it was not a tough decision. And frankly speaking, it was the only possible
choice I could make.

▪ Back in the day when I was a high school student, I wanted to do something related to
fashion, but my parents insisted on my choosing accounting. Frankly, I wish I had not
listened to them as I do not enjoy at all being accountant.

Do you like your job?

▪ I do. Because it is never boring. In fact, the more challenging, the better. Of course I
put a lot of effort in order to complete such tasks successfully but job satisfaction it
gives me significantly outweighs the hours and the stress. Among other things, there is
nothing to complain about as my remuneration is more than adequate, let alone all the
perks that my employer provides.
 ▪ Well, I hate that I often have to work against the clock to meet deadlines and it seems
that I will never be able to escape this constant rat race. I feel this jampacked schedule
is robbing me of my life. Sometimes I can’t help feeling envious of people who have
less responsibility and fewer tasks.

Have you changed your mind on your dream job?

➢ I have changed as I understood that I am not ready to:

➢ Have a jampacked schedule
➢ Have a fast-paced environment
➢ Work against the clock to meet deadlines
➢ Work under time pressure

➢ I haven’t changed because it:

➢ Is what I really dreamed about
➢ Is a good match for my talents and skills
➢ Is in line with my qualification
➢ Pays well/ allows me to make a decent living
➢ Provides a satisfying work-life balance

➢ I haven’t but now I realize that there are quite a lot of things in this career which
I did not think about at a younger age, for example, the fact that working under
pressure is robbing people of their life, taking them from their families and
pushing them to participate in a rat race in order to get recognition and make a
decent living.

Part 2

Describe your ideal job. You should say.

• what this job is

• whether you would need any qualifications
• whether it would be easy to find work
• why you would enjoy this job in particular

I’ve always loved watching wildlife programmes on TV and often thought how much I’d
enjoy working with animals, perhaps in a safari park ,something like that … you’d
probably need a degree to have any chance of being called for an interview and this
 job probably wouldn’t be well-paid either but money isn’t everything I’d get so much
job satisfaction … I can’t imagine it being the kind of job where you get stuck in a rut .
I’d love to work with animals as I enjoy manual work and I’m a good team player … so
even though the working conditions might not be the best I think that would be my ideal
job …

Everyone has their dream job, and I am no exception. Since I was a little boy, it has
been my dream to work as human resources manager in a multinational company.
What make me really want to have the job is that I am fond of interacting with other
people, then working in the work place will give me the chance to deal with human
relationships, not to mention that a teacher from my university compliment on
my leader skills and he said that I have the ability to organize people to work together
and lead them to boost the productivity, which is one of the reason driving me to the
job. Generally, working in human resources field is likely to be well paid, besides it is
also challenging for me to find work in the area because the position will require high
level of qualification and large amount of experience. Thus, to prepare for my career, I
have gained a bachelor in business administration, and I am about to do a master
degree in human resources management. Apart from my studies, at that time I did my
bachelor, I also took part in several voluntary work. By doing that, I gained a great
deal of valuable experience such as social skills and business knowledge. I hope that
all of this can help me to get my ideal job easier.

Part 3

If there are a limited number of jobs available who should be given priority, young
people or older people with more experience?

▪ Things are so different these days … a few years ago older employees would
often take early retirement or go onto part-time contracts and there were always
opportunities for younger people but now jobs are so scarce … I think younger people
need to be given the chance whenever possible …
▪ I believe that it should be young worker, Although you people cannot possess a rich
source of knowledge like the elderly do, they are full of energy, then can motivate
other coworkers to work harder, which could have a positive effect on the company.

What are some of the important things a candidate should find out before accepting a
job?

Well … you’d need to know about your area of responsibility and your salary of course and
then there are things like holiday entitlement … maternity or paternity leave and what the
situation is regarding sick leave. You have to take into account such kind of things.
What are the advantages of having your own business rather than working for
someone else?

Well … unfortunately being self- employed at the moment is very stressful. People have
very heavy workloads, they’re always under pressure to meet deadlines. Beside it, running
your own means that you have to take a large financial risk. You also have to accept that your
income will be unstable, for instance, it can be really high sometimes, but some months you
just earn nothing. But I do think it would be far more satisfying as you work in a field that you
really enjoy. I mean that you are not obliged to do the job which doesn’t appeal you or leaves
you cold. Moreover, your schedule can be more flexible. If you plan something special you do
not need to ask for permission, you can take a day off and spend this time with your lovely
ones. And I strongly believe that the advantages of being your own boss significantly
outweighs its disadvantages.

Bonus Sentences

Workplace

• People should get ahead in the workplace only through hard work, punctuality, and
talent.
• A pleasant working environment makes a huge difference to employees as
it generates positive feelings and increases productivity.
• Employees shouldn’t be treated as commodities by their bosses; employers should be
able to promote teamwork and team spirit among employees as this will trigger
their motivation.
• If a company has high expectations from its employees then, it should reward them
for good performance; this will boost their creativity and personal motivation even
more.

Job Market

• There is a rising demand for web developers.

• In order to compete in the job market you need to be well equipped forthe position
you want and have suitable qualifications.
• Only the basic requirements will not get you very far in relation to employment
prospects.
• In order to secure a job you have to impress potential employers not only with
your academic achievements and work experience in your field but also with
your social skills.
• A desirable job helps you gain independence.
• Being suited to a job in terms of qualifications increases your prospects for
promotion.
Vocabulary:

▪ to be engrossed in: to be completely focused on one thing

▪ bedtime reading: reading before the sleep
▪ to be based on: to be about
▪ to be heavy-going: dull and boring
▪ the central character: main character
▪ to come highly recommended
▪ couldn’t put it down: couldn’t put aside
▪ to flick through: to turn the pages
▪ hardback. OPP: paperback
▪ a real page turner: a book that you want to keep reading
▪ gripping: firmly holding the attention or interest; exciting.
▪ spine-tingling: thrilling or pleasurably frightening.
▪ tear jerking: sentimental
▪ plot: the main events in a film or book
▪ to read something from cover to cover: to read every part of sth
▪ to take out a book
▪ to tell the story of
▪ beautifully crafted book
▪ skim-read
▪ a book worm
▪ a letdown / it didn’t live up to my expectations
▪ his new novel hit shelves last week

Types of books:

fiction/non-fiction/comic/classic/action and adventure/ science fiction/self-improvement +

book
Exam Questions:

Part 1

Do you like to read books?

Yes, absolutely. I like nothing more than to be engrossed in a good book … I regularly take
out books from the library and usually read them from cover to cover in no time and I can’t
go to sleep at night without some good bedtime reading

What kind of books do you like to read?

I am really into fantasy books because I think they are creatively made and the authors have
a great deal of imagination

Where do you like to read?

I am usually read books at my home because, firstly, it is the coziest place for me and my bed
is the most comfortable corner of my house. Moreover, as I live alone, unlike some book-
cafes I do not get exposed to much noise at home and in this case I concentrate more on
what I am reading.

Part 2

Describe a book you have read .You should say:

• what this book was

• when you read or saw it
• why you decided to read the book

Sample 1.

I like reading, especially, English novels. it’s a great way to improve your vocabulary and
there are so many fantastic authors to choose from . One book that came highly
recommended by my teacher was The Mayor of Casterbridge. I was studying at a school
in The UK at the time and she said it would give me a picture of what life was like years ago in
the area I was living, well I have to say I absolutely loved it. It was a real page-turner, it’s
a historical novel and the setting was a fictional town called Casterbridge … but actually it
was based on a town near where I was studying called Dorchester. To cut a long story
short, it tells the story of the downfall of a man called Henchard the central character who
lives during a period of great social change around the time of the industrial revolution … the
reason I enjoyed it so much … apart from the great story … it gave me a picture of what life
had been like in the place I was studying at the time I really couldn’t put it down

Question 2:

Describe a book you have recently read. You should say:

o what kind of book it is

o what it is about
o what sort of people would enjoy it
o explain why you liked it.

One of the books that I have recently read is called At Home: A Short History of Private
Life by an author called Bill Bryson. It is a thick, factual book about many different
subjects. It is really a collection of information and anecdotes related to our private lives,
past and present.

The book is mainly about things that have been included in our homes over the
centuries. The author started out by wondering about the history of everything in his own
home. As it is a factual book rather than a novel, it does not have a plotas such. Each
chapter in the book covers the history of a particular room. For example, the chapter
on the kitchen talks aboutthe history of running water, electricity, gas cooking and so
on. The chapter about the bathroom looks at the history of plumbing, sanitation and privacy.
The book contains so much interesting information that I think I will have to read it again
in order to take it all in.

As to the kind of people who would enjoy it, I think anybody who is interested in history
and enjoys learning lots of interesting facts would enjoy reading this book. It would also
appeal to a busy person, as it’s a good book to dip in and out of, because you don’t have to
follow a story, as you would with a novel. You can just take it chapter by chapter, or
even page by page, as there is something to learn on every page. Each chapter is written
like a story, even though it is a factual book, so it takes the reader to all sorts of
unexpected places, and for me it was a real page-turner.

I like this book because I learned such a huge amount from it, which has made me look
around my own home with different eyes and appreciate just how far we have come in a
short space of time in terms of architecture, technology, lighting, comfort and many other
things.
 o I was so touched by the book and _____
o The book was appealing and touchy.
o _____________ touched my heart.
o I could not leave the book until I finished it and I was deeply touched by
___________________

Part 3

Is reading as pleasurable in digital format?

Personally I prefer reading a paperback or hardback … especially if I’m reading a

classic which I don’t think feels right as an e-book … but I can see it can be good for others
… my grandmother has an e-reader and she loves the way you can enlarge the text …

Do you think bookshops will survive the digital revolution?

I think so … at least I hope so … I love flicking through books in a bookshop … online

shopping is useful … finding out on Amazon if a book you want has got a good review …
maybe getting one that is difficult to find … but I still love the experience of being in a
bookshop …

Statistics show that visits to the cinema are up despite the availability of DVDs and
online downloads. Why do you think this might be?

I think it’s the whole experience that the cinema offers … going out to see a film when
it goes on general release … and seeing it on the big screen is more exciting
than watching the filmat home on TV … especially if it’s an action movie … and watching it
with others makes it even more special …

Do children need to learn how to read while they are still young?

In my opinion, children has to learn how to read in as early as three to six years of age.
(Explain) In the first six years, a child’s brain is like a sponge which can easily absorb
information and make them easier to teach. (Example) For example, I have been teaching
reading classes to graders and after talking the parents, I figured out that the students who
can effortlessly remember what I teach are those who started reading at a very young age.
Do you think there is a difference between reading habits in the past and in the present
day?
Yes. There is a huge difference in the way people read before and now. (Explain) In the past,
people tend to read paper books to gather information or to kill time. However, these days,
people prefer reading articles, books, and other written material using electronic devices such
as smartphones, computers, and tablets. They say that it’s more convenient to read using
these gadgets since it is handy and pocket-friendly. (Example) For instance, if I want to read
before sleeping, I don’t have to switch on the light in the bedroom to be able to read. All I
have to do is adjust the brightness of my smartphone screen to read well.

What is the impact of e-books on reading habits?

In my opinion, the most significant impact of digital books in our reading habit is that, it makes
our every reading experience hassle-free. (Explain) As we all know, e-books can be accessed
conveniently. We can actually read whenever and wherever we please. Therefore, more and
more people have the opportunity to gather information and learn. (Example) For example, in
the past, people need to buy books or borrow from the library in order to do their homework or
to study but now, they can study without bothering to go to other places because all they need
is their smartphone or tablet.

Tips to talk about books

When you are talking about the book you like below mentioned points are must to include

1. The name of the book, its author and its English title
2. Genre. ( horror novel, coming-of-age story). Use adjectives. ( thrilling, hilarious )

3. Next you should really think about the plot of the novel. You don’t need to say
everything. Instead, summarize it. Think about the main action and key scenes. Talk
briefly about the beginning and ending, or any important moments. When talking about
the plot of a film or book, you can use the present simple or past simple.
4. Structuring your answer. be sensible and think of a logical order in your head.
Make sure these are in your notes so that you don’t forget anything.
5. Make sure that you cover all the bullet points.
Vocabulary:

Describing movies

• a box office hit: a financially successful film

• a blockbuster: a film that is a big commercial success
• to catch the latest movie: to see a film that has just come out
• the central character: the main person in a film or book
• to come highly recommended: to be praised by another person
• to go on general release: when a film can be seen by the general public
• a low budget film: a film made with a small amount of money
• plot: the main events in a film or book
• soundtrack: the music that accompanies a film
• special effects: the visuals or sounds that are added to a film which are difficult to
produce naturally
• to spoil – to reveal

Adjectives to describe films:

• action-packed: full of action.

My brother loves action-packed movies. Probably that's why his favourite film is
"Terminator".

• entertaining: funny and enjoyable

• heartbreaking: that breaks your heart and evokes sad emotions.

When my aunt watched "Titanic" she cried all day! It's such a heartbreaking film.

• inspirational: evoking inspiration.

• tear-jerking: tragic, making you cry.

My sister is very emotional. I would rather watch a comedy with her than a tear-jerking
movie!

• thought-provoking: a book or film that makes you think of new ideas or that changes
your attitude to something.

Ray Bradbury's novel "Fahrenheit 451" is deeply thought-provoking. I had to rethink my

attitude to legislation and censorship after I read it.

• true-to-life (a real story)

 • Oscar-winning

Here are some ways you can tell the story (plot) of a film you've seen.

It's set in…(New York / in the 1950's). The film's shot on location in Arizona. The main
characters are … and they're played by… It's a mystery / thriller / love-story.You can tell the
story of the film in the present simple tense.

Well, the main character decides to… (rob a bank) But when he drives there…

Giving your opinion

I thought the film was great / OK / fantastic… The actors / costumes / screenplay are/is …
The special effects are fantastic / terrible The best scene / the worst scene is when … The
plot is believable / seems a bit unlikely

Movie Genres

Action – I like action films because they are…exciting, exhilarating, enthralling.

Documentary – They are educational, engaging, challenging. They can teach us about our
world, open our eyes to important issues, inspire us to action.

Animated – Such films are interesting and captivating.

Biopic – Short for ~biographical motion picture~ AKA a biography. Biopics are fascinating,
however some of them distort the truth.

Comedy – They are hilarious, make us laugh, amusing, humorous and hysterical.

Fantasy – Such movies involve magic, supernatural events, mythology, folklore, and exotic
worlds and characters.

Horror – This kind of movies are scary, frightening, terrifying, creepy, spine-tingling, bone-
chilling, horrifying.

Science Fiction or Sci-Fi – These movies are imaginative, creative, inventive, original,
fanciful.

Thriller – These are often called ~suspense films~ because they use suspense and tension
so much. They usually involve dangerous situations, and often people die.
 Exam Questions:

Part 1:

How often do you go to the cinema?

Unfortunately we don’t have a cinema near us so we have to go into the nearest town to
catch the latest movie … I usually avoid seeing popular box-office hits which I’m not
always keen on seeing … I prefer low-budget films … sci-fi especially … and there’s a great
cinema I go to that has frequent showings of films like these …

Do you prefer reading books or watching films?

I’m not really a big reader … I find books quite heavy-going … so I much prefer to see a film
… perhaps it’s the special effects or the soundtrack … I don’t know … I just prefer a film …

Do old people and young people like watching the same kinds of films? (Compare the
differences.)

Well I think that old people like to watch stories about their country since they wore so
involved in this time period. They also like to watch a variety of programmes that show the
native singing and dancing from different regions in my country. Young people on the other
hand go for the foreign films, as I already mentioned. There are some films that both young
and old like to watch such as historical movies

Part 2:

Describe your favourite movie. You should say:

• what the name of the movie/ film is

• what the theme of the movie/ film is
• why you like it
• and describe the story of the movie in brief.

Model Answer 1:

The name of my favourite movie is 'Casablanca' which was directed by Michael Curtiz. It was
released in 1943 and the story was adapted from a stage-play named 'Everybody comes to
Ricks'. The movie starred Humphery Bogart & Ingrid Bergman and was made in the USA. It
was a romantic drama film and the storyline was set during World War II.

It focuses on a man torn between love and virtue. In 1941 American expatriate Rick who
professed to be neutral by all means met his former lover Ilsa in his nightclub and gambling
den. She was accompanied by her husband, Laszlo, a renowned fugitive Czech Resistance
Leader. They needed a letter to escape to America, where he can continue his work against
the Nazis. German Major came to Casablanca to see that Laszlo does not succeed. One
night Ilsa confronted Rich in the deserted cafe and asked for the letter. She threatened him
with a gun for the letter and later on confessed that she still loved him. Rick's bitterness
dissolved learning that Ilsa was married to Laszlo before even their relationship began. When
Rick and Ilsa planned to fly together, she could not do so because all of a sudden she found
that her husband was still alive and needed her badly to recover. Hearing the story Rick
calmed down and agreed to give the letter to Laszlo so that he can fly to America safely. They
would take a different path to fly away together. But finally, Rick let Ilsa and Laszlo fly to
America which surprised IIsa very much.

In 1989, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry a
being deemed 'Culturally', 'Historically' and 'Aesthetically' significant. It is the second best
movie of all time based on AFI's 100 best movies of all time.

I've seen the movie more than 2-3 times. The story is excellent, the casting, plot, acting,
dialogues and all other aspects of the movie are superb. The movie deeply touched me and
became the most favourite movie I have ever seen.

Model Answer 2:

Thank you very much for letting me talk about this cue card topic. Interestingly, I initially
thought that it would be so easy to talk about my favourite movie but then I realised it is not
because there are so many things to talk about but the time is limited! However, I will try.

Well, my favourite movie is 'Citizen Kane', - an American mystery drama by Orson Welles
which is often considered the best movie ever made. Orson Welles was also its director,
producer, co-screenwriter, and the protagonist. This movie won an Academy Award for
Original Screenplay and I believe the screenplay of the movie makes it so distinctive and
brilliant. Considered by many critics, filmmakers, and fans to be the greatest film ever made,
Citizen Kane is especially appreciated for its cinematography, music, editing and narrative
structure, which have been considered innovative and precedent-setting.
Orson Welles's epic tale of a publishing tycoon's rise and fall is entertaining, poignant, and
inventive in its storytelling, earning its reputation as a landmark achievement in the movie
industry. When a reporter is assigned to decipher newspaper magnate Charles Foster Kane's
dying words, his investigation gradually reveals the fascinating portrait of a complex man who
rose from obscurity to staggering heights. Though Kane's friend and colleague Jedediah
Leland and his mistress, Susan Alexander shed fragments of light on Kane's life, the reporter
fears he may never penetrate the mystery of the elusive man's final word, "Rosebud."

The film was absolutely a masterpiece and I had several reasons to like it. Acting, production,
cinematography, music, editing and narrative structure, which have been considered
innovative and trend-setting, are the main reasons anyone would enjoy this movie. It's a kind
of movie that we do not watch quite often and for me, I consider it the best movie I have ever
watched.

At the end of the movie, the reporter - who was assigned to reveal Kane's last word,
concludes that he is unable to solve the mystery and that the meaning of Kane's last word,
"Rosebud", and it will forever remain a mystery. As the film ends, the camera reveals that
"Rosebud" is the trade name of the sled on which the eight-year-old Kane was playing on the
day that he was taken from his home in Colorado. Thought to be junk by Xanadu's staff, the
sled is burned in a furnace. The innocence of childhood and happiness in simple thing are
incomparable and often hold the secret of life, is something I learned from the movie.

Model Answer 3:

It’s quite hard to say what my favourite movie is because there are quite a few to choose
from! But I would say that the one that made the strongest impression on me is a German
film called ‘The Lives of Others’.

This film is set in communist East Germany, shortly before the fall of the Berlin Wall. At
that time, the Stasi, the East German secret police, used to spy on all kinds of people. The
two main characters in the film are a playwright called Dreyman and a Stasi spy called
Weisler, whose job it is to keep Dreyman under 24 hour surveillance. Weisler is supposed to
be reporting back to his superiors at the Stasi in order to discredit the playwright. However, he
develops a strong sympathy for the playwright and his girlfriend, and determines to protect
them by not reporting anything significant. The scenes in the film where it cuts from the
colourful and interesting lives of Dreyman and his friends to the lonely attic where Weisler is
sitting really show the contrast between the two men. The film is shot in such a way that it
makes you believe you are also spying on Dreyman, it even made me feel a bit guilty!

I like this film because it has fascinating, 3-dimensional characters, and also the plot
has plenty of twists. Right up until the end of the film, we are left guessing how it could
possibly end. It is also very thought-provoking because it makes you wonder how many
people working for the Stasi actually did protect the people they were spying on.
As for the message it gives, I would say the main message is that we can find kindness
and humanity in the most unexpected of places. The film makes us realise that nothing is
ever black and white! The film also serves as a warning about the dangers of an
oppressive, paranoid regime and is perhaps quite pertinent in this current age of mass
surveillance.

Part 3:

What do you think people can learn from watching films? (or should films be
considered as entertainment only?)

Oh I think that people can learn so much from films. You know there is an old saying that
goes “A wise man learns from his mistakes, but a wiser learns from the mistakes of others.”
Just by watching a movie and seeing what a character does in certain circumstances, you
know whether you should do something or not. You can see picturesque sceneries that you
might not be able to see if it were not for movies. So definitely, you can learn from watching
films.

Do you think that film stars deserve the large incomes that some of them receive?

From my viewpoint, celebrities deserve as much money as they make per movie or
episode. Though actors have a choice to choose between their roles, but once they have
signed something, they have to completely work their socks off to reach the director’s
expectations. They help the director achieve his dream and only when they are paid, they
give their best. Besides, acting is work, and unlike many jobs, it requires real skill. There’s a
definite difference in quality between actors of different skill levers. That being said, it’s hard
to justify some of the outrageous price tags of the most famous actors. These are not
necessarily being paid for their skill, but for their fame and ability to bring people into theatres.
At a certain level, film watchers ‘re paying for fame instead of talent.

What do you think about censorship?

I believe in it. I think that some of the stuff that is available to the public is just pure garbage.
Not censoring would be like allowing garbage to be strewn around your living room. I believe
in freedom of speech but I believe that also goes along with a sense of responsibility of who
would be around to hear it. Some things are just nor all audiences. Maybe censorship can go
too far but if you have a good balance in what is censored it is not such a bad thing.

Should films be classified before release?

Of course this goes along with my previous answer. It is considered that there are certain
types of content and portrayal that should be prohibited like sexual acts accompanied by
offensive perversion. Besides, I hope that you don’t think that I am being too negative on this
subject but realistically speaking expanding the ratings of classifications would not be a bad
idea. I think that the rating system is too simplistic and many more guidelines and ways to
classify movies are long overdue.
Vocabulary

▪ single storey – with only a ground floor level

My elderly parents are buying a single storey house as they find it difficult to climb the
stairs.

▪ two-storey – with two floors levels

Sanjay found a lovely two-storey property to rent close to his workplace.

▪ detached house – a house that is not connected to any other houses

We’d love to buy one of the new detached houses being built near the lake but they’re
out of our price range.

▪ semi-detached house – a house that is joined to another house on one side

Aynur lived in a semi-detached house and could sometimes hear her neighbours arguing
through the adjoining wall.

▪ terraced house (UK) / row house (US) – a house in a row of similar houses joined
together on both sides

Having a property either side of us means that our terraced house stays warm in winter.

▪ cottage – a small house, usually located in the countryside

For lots of people, a cottage in the countryside is their idea of a dream home.

▪ apartment block / high-rise – an apartment building with at least 10 floors

There is little space for housing in my city and most people live in a high-rise.

▪ block of flats – a tall building with flats on many levels

They are clearing some of the old terraced houses in our town and replacing them
with blocks of flats.

▪ suburb/ on the outskirts – a residential area on the edge of towns or cities

Nearly all my colleagues at work live in the suburbs and commute by train each day.

▪ downtown – near the centre of a town or city, especially the business or shopping
areas

I’m looking for a flat downtown so I don’t have to commute far to work.
 ▪ within walking distance – not very far; close enough to reach by walking
▪ We chose to live here because it’s within walking distance of the school.
▪ close-knit community – a neighbourhood where people are helpful and supportive

This is a close-knit community and there’s always someone to turn to if you need help.

▪ to rent – to pay money to the owner of a property to be allowed to live there

One day I hope to own my own home but for now, I can only afford to rent.

▪ to rent out / let out – to allow someone to live in your property for a fee

I inherited my mum’s bungalow when she died and I’ve decided to rent it out.

▪ tenant – someone who rents a flat or house from the person who owns it

The people renting Adil’s flat gave notice last week so he’s looking for new tenants.

▪ to give notice – to inform someone that you will be leaving or that they are required to
leave

We gave the landlord the required 30-day’s notice that we would be moving out of the
flat.

▪ to put down a deposit – to make an initial payment as part of a rental agreement or to

secure a purchase

The landlord said that once we’d put down the deposit of £200, the flat was ours.

▪ lease – the contract a tenant signs when renting a property

We gave him the £200 deposit immediately and agreed that we’d visit the office later to
sign the lease.

▪ short-term rental / lease – a rental agreement that lasts for a short time, usually 3 - 6
months

The flat was only available on a short-term lease as the landlord wanted to sell it.

▪ fully-furnished/ well-equipped – a rented property with all furniture included

As a student, I didn’t have any money to buy furniture so always rented fully-
furnished accommodation.

▪ estate agent (UK) / real estate agent (US) – someone whose job it is to help people
buy and sell property. Some deal with rentals as well.
Tuyen told the estate agent what sort of property she was looking for and he gave her the
details of ten houses she might be interested in looking at.

▪ mortgage – a large loan given to buys a house or flat

Julio was delighted when his mortgage application was accepted and he could go ahead
with his house purchase.

▪ to take out a mortgage – to borrow money from the bank in order to buy a house

Taking out a mortgage is a big commitment and most homeowners spend all their
working life paying it off.

▪ first-time buyer – someone buying a property for the first time

The developer converted the old house into four apartments that would be affordable
to first-time buyers.

▪ repossess – to take back possession of something, especially a property when

mortgage payments have not been made

Luther lost his job and couldn’t pay his mortgage so the bank repossessed it.

▪ utilities – gas, electricity, water

On top of the rental fee, they had to pay for the utilities as well.

▪ to convert – to change the form of something

Our plan is to convert the garage into a study.

▪ to add an extension – to build an extra room onto a house

Many people add an extension as their family grows rather than buying a larger house.

▪ to redecorate – to paint one or more rooms again or put new wallpaper on the walls

The colour scheme in their new house was dull and old-fashioned so
they redecorated before they moved in.
Exam Question:

Part 1:

1. Do you live in a house or an apartment?

I live in a flat in a 25-storey apartment building with my family. I enjoy my life there, because
all facilities and services are available within walking distance, which means I can easily
grab anything I need in just a few minutes.

2. Can you describe the place where you live?

Answer A: I own a small but well-planned house which has proper fencing and a secure
entrance. It is a 3 BHK at with all basic facilities. A fully furnished kitchen, well-equipped
bathrooms and spacious, ventilated rooms are its integral parts. A beautiful garden
enhances its beauty and makes us feel closer to nature. The best thing about this house is
that it is located in a sophisticated colony.

Answer B: I live in an eight-storey building and all storeys have the same type of ats but they
are independent. The building is surrounded by a fence. It has round-the-clock security
and it can be accessed by two gates: front and back. We have a common terrace. All the
doors are equipped with a working and well-kept lift. At the back side of the house, there is a
parking space for two cars. Overall, it is a well-planned building.

Answer C: Briefly, my humble house locates in a small and quiet street, so coming home to
me is like all the craziness happened outside is left behind. Just beside my house stands a
big old tree. We have rooms with walls painted violet, which is kinda a peaceful colour. The
air outside is fresh. I usually open the window to enjoy the wind and sunshine, which will help
cool down the room without an air conditioner.

2. What is your favorite room in your home? Why?

Definitely my own bedroom. It’s the personal space where I can do whatever I want without
getting scolded by my mom. Besides, my bedroom is an ideal place for me to avoid noise, so
I tend to lock myself up in my bedroom whenever I need to concentrate on my study.
Since I spend most of my time staying at home, my room means the whole world to me. It’s
like a friend who is always there to share ups and downs with me.

3. What do you usually do in your house/flat/room?

Answer A: Well, definitely I’ll spend some me-time there. I study, I chill out by
reading, drawing and dancing all by myself. Sometimes I also invite one or two friends to
spend time with. We’ll watch some movies together and tell each other endless stories.
Answer B: Eventually, everyone loves to spend time at home. Some people like to sit idle and
watch TV, some of us prefer to do household things like cooking and cleaning the house.
When I am at home, I enjoy the delicious homemade food which my mother cooks, and if
there is a cricket match on that day then it’s a golden opportunity to spend time with friends
and family with heavy pizza orders. Sometimes, I help my mother in her household chores.

4. Would you change anything about your home? Why / why not?

Well, perhaps I would expand the dining area. It is the common space for family members to
gather, so I think it would be nice if my house’s dining room could be a little more spacious.

5. Would you like to move to a different home in the future?

Answer A: Although my current accommodation is perfectly fine, I would love to experience

living in a villa once. Since it was my childhood dream to have a swimming pool and a garden
of my own, a villa seems like an ideal house for me.

Answer B: The answer would be yes if the respondent is my parents since moving in and out
is too time-consuming and exhausting. Cleaning and arranging everything all over
again would be like torture to them. For me, on the other hand, as I’m thinking of moving out
to start my adult life, hopefully soon I’ll be able to afford to live in a flat or an apartment.

6. How is your apartment decorated?

My home is styled in a minimal way. Almost everything is painted in plain white, and a few
landscape paintings act as a delicate touch. The interior design is simple, but very pleasant
to look at.

7 . Do you plan to live there for a long time?

Answer A: My answer would be yes. I have nothing to complain about with my current
accommodation. Everything is up to par, from the neighbours to the vicinity to amenities.
That’s why my family has no intention of leaving this wonderful neighbourhood.

Answer B: That was never my plan. Two years ago I decided to rent a room here because my
house was too far and it took me forever to get to my office. But I only stay here for maybe 1
or 2 years more before I can afford a house of my own.

8. Do you have a garden?

Unfortunately, no. There is not enough space for a garden in our flat, but I would love to have
one in the future. I think every household needs a green space, not only because it is
aesthetically pleasing, but also because it is a good way to get in touch with the natural
world.

9. Are there many amenities near your home?

My house is located in a residential complex, so everything is within reach. There is a gym,

a park, as well as a wide variety of shops, which are more than enough to cater for all
residents in my area.

10. How long have you lived there?

I’ve been living here since 2016, so it’s 2 years more or less although I did spend 6 months
living in HCM city. I thought about moving somewhere else, but living here is pretty great and
fun. Besides it’s really close to my office.

11. Are the public transport facilities to your home very good?

Not even slightly! The bus stations are always crowded with people who are really
inappropriate and always talking out loud. The floors are so dirty that I don’t even want to
step inside a station.

12. Do you prefer living in a house or a flat?

Each type has some things to offer me but I would have to go for a house. There’s usually
more space, and the water supply is much more reliable.

Part 2

Describe a home you have visited that you really liked. You should say:

• where it was
• whose house or apartment it was
• what it was like.

A few years ago I saw a photo in the window of an estate agent of a fabulous property in a
village quite near to where I live. It was my idea of a dream home so I just had to have a look
around it. I felt a bit bad about doing this as I knew I couldn’t afford the house. I’ve never
done anything like it before, or since.
The house itself was quite modern. It had three bedrooms, separate kitchen, brightly-lit
dining rooms and a spacious lounge. It was mostly carpeted and the large windows let in
plenty of natural light. There was also a utility room and a double garage. It was actually a
fairly ordinary house but would have made a lovely home and it certainly felt cosy.

All the windows had wonderful views over the surrounding countryside which is something I
would make a priority if I was house-hunting for real. The owners said that they often saw
deer out on the hillsides.

All this was very nice, but I haven’t told you about the best part of the property yet,
the garden. That’s what had attracted me in the photo. It was amazing and exactly what I
would love to own. For a start, it was huge. There was a large area of lawn, several pretty
flower beds and a terrace sheltered by a fence. Even better than that was the stream running
through the garden into a big pond with ducks on it. I wish I had that in my garden. You
crossed the stream via a little wooden bridge that led to a small field that was also part of
the property. It was perfect.

The location of the house was also ideal. It was down a small lane on the outskirts of the
village. I know the village well and it’s a close-knit community, something else that would be
important to me if I was thinking of moving house. While the area is beautiful countryside, the
beach is only 15 minutes away so it has the best of both worlds.

I’m glad I visited the property. One day I’ll buy a home like it but for now, I’ll just keep
dreaming.

Part 3

1) What are the advantages of living in a house compared to an apartment?

I’d say that the biggest advantage is that you don’t have people living above and below you
as you do in a flat. Noisy neighbours can be a real problem if you live in an apartment block.

Secondly, most apartments don’t have a garden, although some do have a communal
outdoor that all the residents share. That was what I missed most when I lived in a block of
flats. It was the main reason I decided to move to a house.

Finally, a house feels more like a home of your own, even if you rent it, as you aren’t
sharing any part of the building with other people.

2) Do you think that everyone would like to live in a larger home?

Certainly not. In my opinion, it’s mainly people with young families who want a
more spacious home. As their family grows, they like to have a separate bedroom for each
child and more than one bathroom. Because it’s so expensive to buy and sell a property,
many people add an extension rather than buying a larger house.

Once the children have left home, many parents downsize as they no longer need so many
rooms. They often use the money they make from buying a smaller property to help their
children get a mortgage and buy a home of their own.

Also, many retired people move from a two-storey house to a bungalow so they don’t have
any stairs to climb as they get older. Modern bungalows are cosy and cheap to heat so
there’s a saving on utility bills as well. This is important when you’re living on a pension.

In conclusion, although many of us would like a nicer home, I don’t think size is the most
important thing for a lot of people.

3) What do you think living spaces will be like in the future?

That’s not something I’ve ever thought about but I would guess that more people will live
in high-rises because some places in the world are running out of space for building
new houses.

I saw a programme on TV recently where someone had designed a small apartment where
the furniture folded away so you could quickly change the same space from a living room to
a dining room and then into a bedroom. The kitchen appliances were hidden in cupboards
so were shut away until you needed to use them. It was amazing and I think this sort
of accommodation could become common in the future. However, in places with more land
available I don’t think there will be much change in the near future. Perhaps in fifty years,
people will be living in space but I can’t imagine what their accommodation would look like.
Vocabulary:

▪ to go shopping – to go to the shops to buy things

I won’t be home until 6pm tonight because I’m going shopping after work.

▪ to do the shopping – the activity of buying items from shops

I hate doing the shopping as it’s always so crowded in the supermarket.

▪ goods – things that are sold

Department stores have a wide range of goods on sale.

▪ window shopping – the activity of looking at goods for sale, especially in shop
window displays, without the intention of buying anything

One of my favourite activities on a Saturday is to go window shopping with my friends to

see the latest fashions.

▪ bargain hunting – looking for products that are good value for money, usually
because they are on sale at a lower price than normal

I love bargain hunting and feel great when I find something I need at a knock-down price.

▪ shop around – compare prices before buying something

I always shop around before buying high value items as prices can vary considerably.

▪ Browse in/around shops – looking at things in one or more shops without a firm
intention to buy anything

When I go into town, I often browse around the clothes shops to see if I can pick up any
bargains.

▪ shopping therapy – the practise of buying things in order to make yourself feel better
when you are unhappy

I need some shopping therapy to help me get over the disappointment of not getting a
promotion at work.

▪ hit the shops / stores – to go on a shopping spree

I’m taking a bus into the city with some friends on Saturday and we’re going to hit the
shops.
▪ an impulse buy – an unplanned purchase when something is bought suddenly without
careful thought

My waterproof jacket was an impulse buy as I was actually looking for some new walking
boots, but it was such a bargain that I just had to get it.

▪ a shopaholic – someone who loves shopping and does it often, sometimes to the
point of it being an addiction

My friend Sally is a true shopaholic but I do worry about her as she can’t really afford all
the designer clothes she buys.

▪ to try on – to put on an item of clothing to see if it fits or looks good

Can I try on these two dresses please as I’m not sure which size will fit me best?

▪ take something back – return an unwanted item to a shop

I’m going to have to take this jacket back to the shop as the colour doesn’t match my skirt.

▪ to return an item - to take or send something back to the retail outlet it was purchased
from

I’ll have to return the jumper I bought online as they sent the wrong size.

▪ exchange – change an item that has been purchased for a different one

The shirt I bought my dad for his birthday is too large so I’m going to exchange it for a
smaller one.

▪ for sale – available to buy

I was really impressed by the quality of goods for sale in the new furniture shop in town.

▪ to give someone the hard sell – try to sell someone something in a forceful way

When I said I needed to go away and think about it before buying the car, the
salesman tried the hard sell on me.

▪ to order – to request a product over the internet or from a shop when the required item
is not in stock

I must remember to go online and order the computer game my brother wants for his
birthday or it won’t arrive in time.

▪ shopper – a person who is shopping

It was the start of the summer sales and the high street was packed with shoppers.

▪ customer – a person who buys goods or services from a shop or business

I like to do my shopping early in the morning before the shops get busy with customers.

▪ bargain hunter – someone who is looking for goods that are very good value for
money, usually because they are on sale at a lower price than normal

My sister is a keen dedicated bargain hunter and rarely pays full price for anything.

▪ shop assistant / sales assistant – a person who serves customers in a shop

These days, shop assistants are often too busy chatting to one another to help their
customers.

▪ cashier - the person who takes the money in a shop

The cashiers were all busy and I had to join a queue to pay for my groceries.

▪ market trader / market vendor – a person who runs a stall at a market

I was late getting into town and many of the market traders were already packing away
their stalls.

▪ chain store – a group of shops that belong to one company

These days, most towns in the UK are full of chain stores and there are very few
independent retailers left.

▪ independent stores – shops not owned by large companies

When I want to buy a special outfit for a wedding, I shop in an independent store so that I
can be sure that no one else will be wearing the same thing.

▪ department store – a large shop that sells different types of items in different areas or
departments of the store

The department store in our town sells everything from clothes and shoes to bedding,
kitchenware and cosmetics.

▪ convenience store – a small local shop that is open for long hours and sells a limited
range of everyday food and other goods

If we run out of bread or milk, I send one of the kids down to the convenience store at the
end of the road to buy some.
▪ flea market – a group of stalls selling old furniture or clothes

The flea market in Portobello Road, London, started in the 1800s and is still popular with
both locals and tourists.

▪ to purchase – to acquire something by paying for it

Kari couldn’t decide whether to buy the red or the blue pair of shoes so she purchased
both of them.

▪ gift voucher – a card that you buy at a shop to give as a gift, which entitles the person
to exchange it for goods worth the same amount

I often give my nieces and nephews gift vouchers for their birthdays so that they can buy
what they want.

▪ discount voucher – a ticket or piece of paper, often with a code on it, that gives
money off the purchase price

When I bought my new TV, I got a discount voucher for 20% off my next purchase from
the shop.

▪ receipt - a piece of paper showing the amount of money you have paid for something
used as proof of purchase

I always keep the receipt when I buy something in case I have to return it.

▪ refund – money given back to a customer when they return a product they are not
happy with

I took the faulty clock back to the shop and asked for a refund.

▪ price tag – a label that states the price of an item

When I see an item of clothing I like, I check the price tag first to see if I can afford it.

▪ discount – a reduction in the price of something

If I’m buying lots of items from a shop, I always ask for a discount.

▪ a sale – a period during which a shop sells goods at reduced prices

I need a new vacuum cleaner but I’m waiting until the January sales to save money.

▪ on sale / on offer - for sale at a reduced price

Umbrellas are on sale at the moment so I’m going to buy one ready for the rainy season.
▪ to pick up a bargain / to snap up a bargain – to buy something cheaply

She picked up some great bargains in the sale.

▪ knock-down price – extremely cheap or costing much less than the usual amount

Now that spring is here, they’re selling off winter coats at a knock-down price.

▪ to slash prices - to reduce prices a great deal

Mr. Patel is closing down his clothes shop and has slashed prices to sell off his stock.

▪ to be good value for money – to be worth the cost

My new laptop was quite expensive but has all the latest features so I think it was good
value for money.

▪ over-priced – to cost more than you think it is worth

The sunglasses made me look really cool but they were over-priced so I didn’t buy them.

▪ to save up – to put money aside for something until the required amount is reached

Khalil was saving up to buy a new bicycle.

▪ haggle – to negotiate the cost of an item

I had to really haggle with the car salesman to get the price I wanted.

▪ checkout – the place where payment is made for goods, especially in a supermarket

The girl on the checkout was very friendly and chatted as she took the payment for my
groceries.

▪ Queue ( to be/ to wait in a queue) – a line of people waiting

The supermarket was really busy and I had to queue for ages at the checkout.

▪ shelves – the place where they put the products in a shop, especially in a supermarket

With Christmas only a few weeks away, the shelves were stacked with festive food.

▪ trolley – a large container with wheels that you use to put products in, especially in a
supermarket

It’s important to pack your trolley carefully so that your fruit and eggs don’t get squashed
under heavy items.
 ▪ changing room / fitting room – place in a shop where you can try clothes on before
buying them

Aydan wasn’t sure which size blouse would fit her best so she took a small and a medium
into the changing room to try on.

▪ brand-name goods – products made by a well-known company

Teenagers are a huge market for brand-name goods as having the same brand as the
cool kids makes them feel cool too.

▪ second-hand – something that is for sale but has been used before

I often browse the second-hand clothes shops to see if they’ve got anything worth having
in my size.

▪ throwaway society – the idea that we have become a society that consumes a lot of
stuff and readily throws it away, replacing it with new goods

Whilst the transition to throwaway socieities is good for economic growth, it's leading to
a huge waste problem.

▪ to shop until you drop – to continue shopping until you are exhausted; to shop
intensively over a short period of time

I’m meeting my best friend in town on Friday afternoon and we’re going to shop until we
drop.

Exam Questions:

Part 1:

Do you often go shopping for personal items?

When I can afford it yes … my college is in the city centre and I do a lot of window
shopping … but being a student I’m on a tight budget so I have to be careful with
money …

Are there many shops where you live?

We’ve got a few local shops nearby and a few independent stores but none of the big high
street names … I have to go into town for them …
Do you enjoy shopping?

It depends … I hate it when the sales are on … crowds of people all trying to snap up a
bargain … I find it all a bit stressful … I also get annoyed when shop assistants try to give
me the hard sell when all I want to do is look around …

Part 2:

Describe a time when you bought something for someone. You should say:

• when this was

• what is was you bought
• who you bought it for

I’d like to tell you about the time … about four years ago … my husband and I bought a
computer for our daughter … she was about to go to university and we’d promised her we
would treat her to one … at the time there had been a big advertising campaign for the
latest Apple Macbook and our daughter was very keen to have one … she kept telling us they
were value for money … even though they seemed very expensive to us … anyway we tried
to shop around to see if we could pick up a bargain … this was in the middle of
the summer sales and wherever you went prices were being slashed on big
brand names … but unfortunately not Apple products … we ended up having to pay the full
price … I remember my daughter justifying the cost by pointing out how nice the Apple
carrier bag was … but it was lovely to see her so excited and the customer service she’s
received during the four years she’s had it has been excellent … so it was value for money
after all …

Part 3

Do you think we will stop using paper money in the future?

I think it’s almost certain … at the moment it’s still possible to pay in cash but I’m sure this
will change … the problem is people are more likely to get into debt and run up a credit
card bill when this happens.

How do companies encourage the consumer to spend their money?

 Well … a recent development in my country is something called ‘Black Friday’ where people
are encouraged to shop until they drop and buy the latest must-have products … then
there are things like loyalty cards to get the customer back in the store …

What do you think shops need to do to create a positive shopping experience?

The main thing for me is not being pressurised to buy … I appreciate that shop assistants are
probably on commission but if I’m looking for clothes for example I like to take my time … to
try something on … and to ask for help if I need it …

Extra samples:

1. Do all people enjoy shopping for clothes?

I can’t say for sure since it largely depends on personal demand and interest. Women seem
to be more obsessed with fashion and shopping than the rest of the population but, of course,
there are exceptions. Those who love spending time and money on beautiful pieces of
clothing pay great attention for their appearance and take pleasure in the act itself, while
others consider it a waste of resources. However, people have different reasons to buy
clothes which are not necessarily related to whether they enjoy it or not. For example, most
men tend to avoid clothes shopping unless they need a new suit for some formal event or
simply because they’re run out of clothes.

2. Why women like to do shopping?

Women are usually considered creatures of beauty, which may explain why they love
shopping and enjoy lavish costumes to a considerable degree. First and foremost, outfits
are visual indicators of personal image and personalities, hence, they want to dress
accordingly. Secondly, shopping is not only for the sake of fashion but also an effective
means of relaxation. In modern society where lots of people are under constant stress
every day, indulging oneself in some serious shopping may help to take the weight off
their mind, despite temporarily. Last but not least, women don’t usually shop for themselves
alone but most of their spending is on family and friends. They relish the idea of giving gifts
or buying nice clothes for their beloved ones, therefore, shopping sits high on their to-do lists.

3. Why some women buy cheaper clothes and expensive ones at the same time?

Admittedly, the more high-priced a piece of clothing is, the more exquisite it looks. However,
it doesn’t mean low-cost costumes are less appealing or fashionable. Therefore, many
women have both high-end items as well as more budget-friendly ones in their closet for
different purposes. Luxury brands such as Gucci, Channel or Louis Vuitton are more familiar
with the upper class and frequently make their appearance in upscale places or events.
Yet, more affordable apparel brands like ZARA or H&M are not falling behind in terms of
fashion trends or stylish designs. Thus, many prefer them and their products are suitable for
various occasion from daily wear to special ones.

4. Do you think it is good for people buy expensive clothes? Why?

People have their own preference when it comes to fashion which satisfy both their taste and
affordability. I believe it’s more economically wise not to spend exorbitant amount of money
on clothing since such amount can be invested more efficiently. The first reason is fashion is
mainly short-lived. Once a certain type of clothing goes out of style, it is likely to be left
untouched for eternity in spite of only being worn for a few times. Imagine the exact same
thing happens with dozens of other pieces in your closet and the amount of money you waste
will add up. Furthermore, it will be more beneficial to invest in experiences and knowledge
rather than material items. Travel more and explore the world while you still can will bring you
more pleasure and wisdom than a fashionable dress ever could.

5. Why do some people like shopping with friends?

Plenty of people, including me, enjoy shopping with friends rather than by themselves
because of some privileges they can’t find otherwise. People tend to seek advice or ideas
on the products or services when shopping. Hence, a companion can provide you with more
objective and fairer remarks on the item you want to buy but are uncertain of, which is
extremely helpful when it comes to fashion. Besides, it might be impossible for you to refrain
yourself from overspending and that’s where your co-shopper comes to your rescue.
Before they let you go over your budget, they make sure you are aware of the pros and
cons. Thus, unless all my friends are occupied, I rarely go shopping alone.

6. Why people like shopping for clothes online?

Online shopping, especially for apparel, has become a thriving business in a past few years
for good reasons. To begin with, buying online is incredibly time-saving. Instead of spending
hours driving to your favorite malls to get some new clothes of the latest collection, your
problem can be solved with only Internet connections and, of course, your fine taste in
fashion. No energy is needed, either. Secondly, you always have best deals when
subscribing to any online stores, which can save you tons of money that you don’t even
notice. Some shops even offer exclusive promotions for loyal customers, therefore, get
ready for special treats. Lastly, you can easily switch from site to site to have even more
choices without moving anything but your fingers.
7. What risks would take when shopping online? Why?

Everything always has two sides and shopping online may not always prove to be the best
choice. Many online shoppers have experienced unpleasant situations in which either
products or service, or sometimes both, fell short of their expectations. The most common
problem is false advertisement in terms of color, size or material which is profoundly
disturbing since each person has a unique figure that suits some certain pieces of clothing.
As a result, you don’t get what you pay for. In addition, unless you order on trustworthy online
stores of well-known brands or the like, customer service can’t be guaranteed. It may take
days or weeks until your concern is addressed or worse, forever. Therefore, be careful and
selective before any purchase decision to avoid irksome experience.

8. What special clothes do people in your country wear on official or formal

occasions?

General speaking, there isn’t any strict dress code in most of the events, except some
exclusive ones but people do share some implicitly agreed idea when it comes to formal
attires. As regards men, suits, blazers or tuxedos are their common choice. This is
understandable since a nicely tailored suit can not only boost a man’s confidence and
exude power but also an indicator of honor and respect. After all, it’s better to overdress than
underdress. Women, on the other hand, usually dress up in elegant dresses or gowns which
can accentuate their feminine figures and make them shine. And depending on the formality
level of the event, the types of dresses can vary greatly from little black dresses, cocktail
dresses to fabulous gowns.

9. What is the different dress style between boys and girls?

Needless to say, boys’ and girls’ taste in fashion is as different as chalk and cheese since
the former looks for the ease of use while the latter is all for style and beauty. Due to their
dynamic nature, most boys actively engage in outdoor games or physical activities such as
gardening, roller skating and other sports. Hence, clothes that are sweat-absorbent, loose-
fitting and hard-wearing are often preferable to male youngsters. However, girls appear to
develop a sense of style sooner than their counterparts, therefore, their outfits are more
diverse, form-fitting and fashionable ranging from blouses, shirts, tank tops to mini dresses,
skirts or culottes.

10. Do you like jewel?

I love collecting tiny pieces of art like jewelries since they are not only accessories but perfect
complements to your whole look. There are thousands of types and designs of jewelries for
you to choose from so I bet everyone, regardless of genders, can find at least one item they
love, from earrings, bracelets, necklaces to watches. The materials of which they are made
also varied from luxurious ones such as silver, gold, diamond to more affordable and street-
style ones like artificial stones, copper or other metals. Thus, they can go with different kinds
of styles and if you do it right, they will make your outfit less boring and livelier.

11. Do you wear many jewels?

Even though I have a whole jewelry collection at home, I’ve never attempted to put on more
than five pieces since I live with a motto “simplicity is the best”. I have a habit of picking up
eye-catching accessories whenever I come across one but always consider carefully before
matching them with my costume. For example, if I dress in an off-shoulder top, a simple
choker is good enough to highlight my long neck. Other times when I tie my hair in a messy
bun, I prefer a pair of sophisticated earrings such as hoop or feather ones to add more
feminine and romantic vibes. But all in all, never exceed five at the same time.

12. Why some people wear a jewel for a long time?

I suppose each has their own reasons. In most cases, if people get attached to a certain
piece of jewelries, there might be a story behind it. It could be a family heirloom that has
been passed down generations to generations so it has a special meaning to the owner.
Or it may belong to someone they hold dear such as their spouse, parent or soulmate which
can explain why they don’t want to take it off. Another reason is that they keep wearing the
same jewel just out of habit. They get accustomed to it after a while and are too lazy to
change the new one so there it stays.
Vocabulary

▪ Inadequate care
Because of inadequate care by parents children sometimes misbehave at public places

▪ To place children with someone

When the parental care is inadequate, children should be placed with those who are
best able to care for them

▪ Sibling rivalry

My brother and I get along well now that we are adults but when we were kids we had a
major sibling rivalry and we would compete with each other constantly.
▪ To be related by blood

For much of the recorded history in view of safety and trust kingdoms have been
predominantly ruled by the people related by blood.
▪ To have blood in veins

He had noble blood in veins and could not get used to the life in slums of Moscow.
▪ To raise someone as his flesh and blood

She found him in a dark night in close proximity of her house and raised him as her own
flesh and blood.

▪ To be authoritarian

Authoritarian relatives should get used to the inevitable fact that their children has
personal interests and views too, and quit insisting on total obedience since such
rearing deprive them of individuality and personal point of view.

▪ Strict disciplinarian

Relatives grown in harsh and arduous conditions are more inclined to being strict
disciplinarians and making every endeavor to keep their children from harmful
external threats.

▪ To be defenseless against something

▪ To be vulnerable to something

▪ Families, which have members pursuing separate interests, are defenseless

(vulnerable to) against disintegration and internal vulnerability.

▪ Close/parental supervision
Parental supervision is not only a way to protect your child, but also a powerful tool for
personal formation. Its lack in childhood undermines the credibility of the world, and the
overabundance in adolescence is the confidence in the parents.

▪ Set a curfew

A curfew must be regarded as an emergency mean of guaranteeing control in the family

and not implemented unless there is an objective need in it.

▪ Two-way communication with

Two-way communication provides the foundation on which solid family-school

partnerships are created. When families and staff communicate effectively, positive
relationships are formed and students make progress.

▪ To be on good terms with smb

He did not hesitate to disclose his mistake to his family since all of them were on good
terms and there was no place for fear and procrastination.

▪ To live up to someone’s expectations

It is absurd to give children a fallacious example to follow and expect them to live up
bloated parental expectations.

▪ To cement the relationship between smb/smth

The peaceful solution of the conflict cemented the relationship between my parents and
made them feel closer.

▪ To follow in smb’s footsteps

The influence of parents on the choice of profession is very significant. Many children
take their parents as their role models and follow in their footsteps in professional
life.

▪ To express concerns/emotions/ thoughts

Leaving home he felt the expression of concerns, touching emotions and deep
thoughts on his mother`s face.

▪ Dent/shake smb’s confidence

Nothing could ever shake her confidence since from childhood she was reared in the
supportive and prudent atmosphere.
▪ To lead smb astray
 The sudden loss of job and kin lead him astray which lead to more troubles and
wrong decisions.
▪ Unsettled upbringing

He had unsettled upbringing, moving with his father from town to town.

▪ To stand on foot

They are women who are standing on their feet in spite of their unfair and unequal
circumstances.
▪ To ground someone

Not been grounded by own relatives child, will barely be able to do the same for own
children.
▪ .Idolise, look up to smb

The children look up to me and I feel nothing but will and ambition.

▪ Distance relatives

▪ Estranged husband/ wife

Some children after standing on own feet try to rejoin their distant relatives and
make estranged husband and wife feel warm again.

▪ Trial separation

▪ Bitter/acrimonious divorce
A trial separation can make them gain a deeper appreciation for each other and
▪ avoid bitter/acrimonious divorce
▪ Deprived childhood
▪ To come from a broken home
Most convicted juvenile offenders have no secondary education, come from a
broken home or dysfunctional family and have less than satisfactory living
conditions.

▪ Apply for custody of children

Women have the same right as men to apply for divorce and for custody of their
children. They are also entitled to remarry.

▪ Grant custody to smb/ award sole custody to

In cases where domestic violence against a pregnant woman or her unborn fetus has
occurred, there should be legal mechanisms to grant custody to the mother prior to
the birth of the baby
 ▪ Set up home

We live with my mom now, but we’ll set up home on our own soon.

▪ Hereditary.
All the men in our family are bald. I suppose it's hereditary.

▪ To receive a good upbringing

Breadwinner
As a result of the war, 20,000 people had been killed in Azerbaijan and many families
had been left without a breadwinner.
▪ To bear a remarkable resemblance to/ to be a spitting image of smb
Kate’s the spitting image of her mother. They both have blue eyes and dimples
▪ Live apart from each other.
▪ To give the child up for adoption
▪ Clear-cut roles

A man and a woman should be given clear-cut roles and tasks in the upbringing of
their children.

Useful phrases

It runs in the family

I like to be active and I participate in a lot of marathons and road races. It runs in the family
because my dad also runs in marathons sometimes.

My dad has high blood pressure and I started to develop it this summer. I guess it runs in
the family.

Heart disease runs in my family. I try to have a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise.

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree

My sister is just like my father. She jumps from job to job and can’t settle on one career
path. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

John ended up in prison just like his father. I guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
The black sheep of the family

Everyone likes me because I'm so quiet and obedient. The same cannot be said for my
wild cousin Nathan, who is the black sheep of the family.

Marvin is the black sheep of the family. He’s been in college for seven years and still
hasn’t graduated.

To take after someone

I take after my father. We’re both architects, and we both love soccer.

To be a chip off the old block

Tiffany is an accomplished pianist just like her mother. She’s a chip off the old block.

Like father, like son

Jimmy is tall just like his father, and they have the same smile. Like father, like son.

To be in one’s blood = something that is ingrained in that person’s family.

Law is in my blood. I’m a lawyer, and so is my father, my grandfather, and two of my aunts.

The apple of their eye.

Our grandson is the apple of our eye. We absolutely adore him.

Get along with (or get on with)

I feel fortunate that I get along with my family so well.

(just) one big happy family

To outsiders, they seemed like one big happy family, but they often fought behind closed
doors.

To have a falling out ( fall out)

Margaret and her sister had a falling out a few years back. They hardly even speak to
each other now.

Bad blood

There’s bad blood between Carlos and Alex, so let’s not invite them both to dinner

To wear the pants = hold the authority.

My mother definitely wears the pants in the family. My dad only thinks he does.

To rule the roost

As kids, my oldest sister ruled the roost. She made all the decisions and always told us
what to do.

Family man

Carl never goes out with his coworkers after work. He’s a true family man, and always
rushes home to be with his wife and kids.

Blood is thicker than water

Of course Karen is going to side with her sister in this argument. Blood is thicker than
water.

Born with a silver spoon in their mouth = born in privileged family.

We may both be wealthy now, but I was not born with a silver spoon in my mouth.
I had nothing when I was young, and all of my fortune is down to my own hard work.
Exam Questions

Part 1

Do you have a large family or small family?

I have a small family and there are only five members including my dad, mom, younger sister,
younger brother and I am (the eldest son of the family).

• Tell me something about your family.

Well, as I said we have got five family members in our family including me. My father is a
Doctor and my hero. My mother is a school teacher and a loving and caring person. We love
our parents very much. My younger sister is in grade 7 and she has got all the crazy and
creative ideas and she shares most of her secrets with me. My younger brother is studying
mathematics at a university and he has got a passion for playing football. He dreams to
become a professional football player someday though I have my doubts about it. I have
recently completed my Bachelor degree in Computer Science and have a plan to finish my
Master degree from a reputed foreign university. We are a happy family and share a strong
bonding that makes us care for each other a lot.

• How much time do you manage to spend with members of your family?

I usually try to spend most of the time with my family. But I cannot manage time when I am
out for my university. But after my return from the university, I do not make any late to share
the day-long events with the family members, especially with my mom.

• In what way is your family important to you?

Well, my family is the centre of my universe. My parents did everything humanly possible to
raise me up and ensure my education and well-being. Their sacrifices and contributions for
my life are unparalleled. I will always be grateful to be a member of such a happy and caring
family. My family members know me better than any other person and they will always be with
me no matter what. They are the people who had always been with me and supported me
every way possible. I believe that family comes first and that’s why my family is the most
important aspect of my life.
• What sorts of things do you like to do together?

Frequently we watch movies in theatres and also go for some day outs during the holidays.
Actually, my dad likes a lot to go out with the family members when he is free from his
professional engagements. But my mum prefers going to the cinema and thus we, the kids,
are to settle the issues.

• Did/Do you get well with your family? Why?

Yes, I get very well with my family members. They are supportive, positive, intelligent and
caring. I would not say that we never had any disagreement but that’s usually momentary.
Love is stronger among us and that conquers any misunderstanding that might arrive among
us. In fact, I am happy to be a part of such a wonderful family. They love me as much I love
them.

• Who are you close to in your family?

I am close to every single family member in my own way. However, in terms of sharing
personal secrets and spending time, I am more close to my mother than my father. My
younger sister considers me her best friend and thus we have a unique relationship.

• Should we rely heavily on our families or is it better to try to be independent?

I believe that being independent does not contradict our reliance on our family. Every single
person should be economically and personally independent at a certain age and should be
close to his/ her family at the same time. If being independent means living separately and not
having a strong relationship with the family, I do not want such independence and freedom.
We all possess unique personality and a desire to be independent, but that should not harm
our family relationship.

• Do you get along well with your family?

Yes, I do get along well with my family members. We have a strong bond among us and that
makes us a happy family.
• What is your special moment with your family?

Celebrations are remarkable, particularly the celebration of any special occasions like a
birthday, the anniversary of my parents or any special achievement by my siblings etc. These
events have so many special memories and we consider those occasions as our special
moments.

• Are people in your country generally close to their families?

Most the people prefer to be with their families and do everything for the members. But
exceptions are everywhere. The people living just opposite of our apartment do not have a
strong bond among the family members and always engaged in quarrelling with each other
which is unwanted and indecent.

Part 2

Describe the person in your family who you most admire. You should say:

• what their relationship is to you

• what they have done in their life
• what they do now
• and explain why you admire them so much.

The person I admire the most, not just in my family but in the whole world, is my mom. She is
a great wife and a wonderful mother. She is loving, caring, open-minded and very
understanding.
I love how she looks at things. She is very optimistic. I love her courage in raising me and
my brothers well, since my father passed away. She has been a single mom for about 17
years and did her best to act both a mother and father to us. She would always stood up for
us.
My mom resigned from work few years after my father died. Her reason was to spend much
more time with the family, especially when we were growing up. She felt the need to guide us
physically and emotionally. She then started her own business, which she is still running.
I love her so much. She is not just a mom but also a mentor and a friend.
Part 3

1. In what ways have families in your country changed in recent?

The roles of husbands and wives have changed in recent years. Both spouses have been
more open to perform different roles, such as seizing various job opportunities or being
more involved in the household. Another change, I think, is the trend to have less children.
Parents nowadays think of having smaller families due to high cost of living and career
perspectives.

2. Should husbands and wives have different roles within the family? Why (not)?

Traditionally, husbands and wives had had clear-cut roles in society. Husbands used work
and fulfill financial needs of the family, while women were expected to take care of the
house. Changes had occurred over time and both husbands and wives started to take part in
each of these roles. I think this change is rather positive. It is not necessary to sharply define
each role. I reckon, whatever role family members take, they should always move in the same
direction and pursue what is best for the family itself.

3. Which are more important to you: your family or your friends?

Both are fairly important, but my family takes place in my life that is dear to my heart. Friends
may come and go, but I know that my family will always be there for me, no matter what
happens in my life and no matter what decisions I take. Nevertheless, my friends are
the closest people with whom I can share and discuss things that sometimes are not
appropriate to bring up in the family circle.
Bonus Sentences:

Family

• Both parents should play a role in child bearing and spend quality time with
their offspring.
• Parents that view children as individuals and treat them with respect
usually raise children with a sense of responsibility.

• Children should learn to be respectful towards the elderly and apologise for their
disobedience.
• When children misbehave, they usually seek their parents’ attention.
• Raising children requires patience and diplomacy.

• The best way to handle a stubborn child is to express your disapprovalof

his/her behaviour and give a warning.
Vocabulary:

Serious Crimes:

abduction = taking someone against their will (kidnapping)

arson = setting fire to a property
assault = a physical attack
burglary = illegal entry to a building with an intent to commit a crime
child abuse = maltreatment of a child
domestic abuse= negative behavior one exhibits over another within families
cybercrime= crime carried out online
drug trafficking = importing illegal drugs
false imprisonment = imprisoning a person against their will
fraud = deception for personal or financial gain
hacking = unauthorised access to data in a computer system
hijacking = illegally getting control of an aircraft or vehicle
human trafficking = illegally transporting people, usually for slave labour or commercial
sexual exploitation
murder (homicide USA)
premeditated murder = murder that is intentional (planned before hand)
unpremeditated murder/ manslaughter – murder that is not intentional (not planned)
attempted murder = planning to kill another person
genocide = systematic killing of a race or religious group
organised crime = crime by an organised gang or organisation
smuggling = illegal import or export
terrorism = unlawful violence or threat with political aims
white collar crime = financially motivated non-violent crime by a worker
embezzlement = stealing money from the place where you work

Minor crimes:

pick pocketing = taking from another person’s pockets

shoplifting = taking products from a shop without paying for them
traffic offences =breaking the rules of the road and driving
drunk driving = driving whilst under the influence of alcohol
jay walking = crossing the road at an undesignated spot
running a red light = going through traffic lights when they are red
speeding = driving over the speed limit
vandalism = deliberate destruction or damage to a building
bullying = hurting and frightening someone and often forcing them to do the things
they do not want to do
 harassment = illegal behavior towards a person that causes mental or emotional
suffering including repeated unwanted contacts, threats, touching, offensive language.
The most common version of harassment is sexual harassment and the collocation
used with this word is to be subjected to..

Criminals:

➢ crime = criminal/ offender/ delinquent/culprit

➢ murder = murderer
➢ theft = thief
➢ hijacking = hijacker
➢ terrorism = terrorist
➢ smuggling = smuggler
➢ shoplifting = shoplifter
➢ vandalism = vandal
➢ teenage criminal/ juvenile delinquent

Types of punishment:

➢ the death penalty (capital punishment) = punishment of death

➢ a prison sentence (imprisonment) = imprisonment
➢ forfeiture = property is taken away (confiscated)
➢ a fine = to pay money as a punishment for an offence
➢ house arrest = imprisoned in one’s own house rather than in prison
➢ to revoke a license = to take away someone’s driving license
➢ non-custodial sentence = a sentence which is not done in prison
➢ community service/ social labor = punishment by doing community work

Punishment for school children

➢ detention = to stay in school after hours for punishment
➢ to give lines = punishment where a child must write the same sentence again and
again
➢ isolation = to be kept apart from others as a punishment
➢ grounding = to be unable to go outside home as a punishment
➢ scolding = an angry reprimand
➢ corporal punishment = physical punishment from a teacher or headteacher at school

Categories of crime:
Personal Crimes These are crimes that result in physical or mental harm to another person.
Personal crimes include:
✓ Assault
✓ Battery
✓ False Imprisonment
✓ Kidnapping
✓ Homicide – crimes such as first and second degree, murder,
✓ and involuntary manslaughter, and vehicular homicide
✓ Rape, statutory rape, sexual assault and other offenses of a
✓ sexual nature

Property Crimes. These are crimes that do not necessarily involve harm to another person.
Instead, they involve an interference with another person’s right to use or enjoy their property.
Property crimes include:
✓ Larceny ( theft )
✓ Robbery (theft by force) – Note: this is also considered a
✓ personal crime since it results in physical and mental harm.
✓ Burglary ( penalties for burglary )
✓ Arson
✓ Embezzlement
✓ Forgery
✓ False pretenses
✓ Receipt of stolen goods.

Court language

✓ judge = the person who controls the court proceedings

✓ jury = a group of independent people who decide whether the defendant is guilty or not
guilty
✓ justice = fairness or court law
✓ trial = legal proceedings to judge whether someone is guilty of a crime
✓ court = the place where the trial is held
✓ defendant = the accused person: the individual or group being accused in court of a
crime
✓ prosecutor = the lawyer against the accused person
✓ defense = the lawyer protecting the accused person
✓ witness = a person who sees an event happen
✓ evidence = facts or information supporting the truth
✓ proof = evidence supporting a claim
✓ guilty = not innocent as judged by a court of law
✓ to be found guilty = the court decided that the person did commit the crime
✓ conviction / verdict = formal sentence of a court
✓ circumstances of the crime = a condition or situation relating to a crime
 ✓ extenuating circumstances = a condition that makes the crime or mistake less serious
and more understandable
✓ maximum / minimum sentence = highest penalty / lowest penalty
✓ a harsh punishment = hard, strict penalty
✓ penalty / punishment are synonyms but penalty is often used for both minor offences
and major crimes.
✓ to investigate the crime= to examine a crime
✓ to take fingerprints
✓ to find evidence= to find proof
✓ to arrest the suspect = to take the person to the police station because police believe
that the person has committed a crime
✓ to pass= to adopt a law

COLLOCATIONS

To serve one’s/ a prison sentence = to carry out confinement in prison as a

punishment
Example: They are serving long prison sentences for their part in the assassination.
To turn to crime/ drugs = to start committing crimes or using drugs.
Example: During periods of high youth unemployment, some youngsters turn to crime
to obtain money.
To be tough on crime= to punish crime severely
Example: The crime rate is likely to fall if governments take strong measures to be
tough on crime.
To be soft on crime= to impose strict punishments on offenders
Example: In order to deter criminals effectively, governments must not follow policies
which are soft on crime.
A policy of zero tolerance= a policy of applying laws very strictly, so that every illegal
action is punished, even if it is not very serious
Example: I would argue that the most effective way to reduce crime is to implement a
policy of zero tolerance.
To contest the verdict= not agree with the decision of the jury after the trial of a case
Example: In many countries, the accused person has the right to contest the verdict
which was reached in the court.
To take into consideration= to consider, to think about a particular fact or detail
Example: The previous criminal records of those who are found guilty must be taken
into consideration when a sentence is passed.
To reintegrate back into society/ community= to restore someone through
education or therapy
Example: There is an increasing focus among policy-makers and practitioners on
identifying programs and strategies that will help prisoners successfully reintegrate
back into their communities without re- offending.
To embark on something= to start something new
Example: Young people sometimes embark on a life of crime as a result of the bad
influence of criminals whom they know.
To make a fresh start =to try something new after making mistakes in one’s life
Examples: I believe that people should have the opportunity to make a fresh start after
they are released from prison.
To act as a deterrent= a measure which makes somebody less likely to do something
Verb: to deter smb
Example: Longer prison sentences would act as a deterrent and would be one useful
measure to tackle rising crime.
Corporal punishment= to punish by physically harming the offender
Example: Many schools have abandoned the policy of corporal punishment for children
who misbehave and prefer to give extra work or detention after school instead.
Drug trafficking= importing and selling illegal drugs
Example: Some people argue that legalising drugs would put an end to the evil of drug
trafficking and the violence associated with it.
Non-custodial sentence= a sentence which is not served in prison
Example: There is a wide range of non custodial sentences which a court may give to
offenders, including: fines, probation orders or community service orders.
To plead/ to find guilty= the court decided that the person did commit the crime. Syn:
to be accused of/ to be blamed for
Example: If people are found guilty of committing serious offences, heavy
punishments should be imposed.
To impose a ban on sth= to enforce an official rule which says that something is not
allowed
Example: Most governments have imposed a ban on the sale of tobacco to those aged
under 16.
To convict a criminal= to find an offender guilty and to punish them
Example: Once the courts have convicted a criminal, the punishment should be
severe.
Law-abiding citizens= people who obey and respect the law
Example: The government could take some effective steps to protect law- abiding
citizens.
To enforce the law= to make sure that the law is obeyed
Example: The role of the police and the courts is to enforce the law.
To install surveillance cameras= to put cameras in a place where a crime is likely to
be committed
Example: The security company has installed surveillance cameras at all the entrances
and exits of the shopping mall.
To put on probation= to make a convicted person see an official at regular intervals to
check on their good behavior, as an alternative to going to prison Example: Sometimes
first-time offenders are not imprisoned but are put on probation for a set period of
time to ensure their good behaviour.
To punish wrongdoers = to punish people who do something illegal
Example: Stricter measures must be introduced by governments to punish
wrongdoers.
To arrest suspects= to stop and hold people who the police think may have
committed a crime
Syn: to put behind bars/ to send smb into prison
Example: The government should give the police greater powers to arrest suspects.

Loss of freedom= be not free

Example: Loss of freedom is a punishment that offenders have to face when they go to
jail.

White-collar crime= crimes committed by “office works”, for example, fraud.

Example: More and more employees who work in a bank turn into crime as white-collar
crime.

Social isolation= the state of separating somebody from our society.

Example: The offenders have to serve the prison sentence as the social isolation to
remain safety of society.

Motive for crime= the reason why people commit crimes

Example: A desire for revenge on his wife is a motive for his crime as murder.

To be imprisoned= go to a jail

Example: Being imprisoned is the best way to punish offenders for their guilty.

To breed future offenders= influence people, especially young people, in such a way
that they later commit a crime.

Example: Parents should give more attention to their offspring in order to

avoid breeding future offenders.
Easy money= money that you get without working hard for it, especially when you do
illegal activities to get this money

Example: To make easy money, the bank robbery have stolen two billion dollars from
five international banks in this year.

To break the law= do something illegal

Example: If a person breaks the law, he is certainly imprisoned.

Illegal activities: the illegal acts.

Example: It is alarming that more and more youngsters turn into illegal activities.

Juvenile delinquency= antisocial behaviour committed by people under eighteen

years old.

Example: It is true that juvenile delinquency rate is increasing alarmingly, which could
jeopardise the social stability.

Soaring crime rates: crime rates rising very fast

Mimicking violent behavior= repeat violent behavior seen

Children are more likely to mimic violent behavior they have seen in their family

Syn: crime is prevalent

Example: We are facing off soaring crime rates and it’s high time the criminals
were brought to justice.

Miscarriages of justice: Situation where innocent people are found guilty

Example: There have been a multitude of miscarriages of justice recently.

Release = set free

Example: After being released some criminals recommit/reoffend

Rehabilitate = To return someone to a good, healthy, or normal life or condition after

they have been in prison, been very ill, etc.

Example: The prison service should try to rehabilitate prisoners so that they
can lead normal lives when they leave prison.

Diminished responsibility= the condition in which someone's mental state,

etc. causes them not to be in full control of their actions:

Example:The accused pleaded not guilty on grounds of diminished responsibility.

WORD PATTERNS

VERBS

Commit (a) crime: Most crime is committed by young men.

Carry out a crime: The boy admitted that he’d carried out the crime.

Fight/combat/tackle crime: There are a number of ways in which the public can help the police
to fight crime.

Turn to crime (=start committing crimes): Youngsters who are bored sometimes turn to crime.

Solve a crime: It took ten years for the police to solve the crime

Report a crime: immediately telephoned the police to report the crime.

ADJECTIVES/NOUN + CRIME

Serious crime: Kidnapping is a very serious crime.

Violent crime/ Terrible/horrific crime : Figures show a 19% rise in violent crime.

Petty crime/ minor crime: Immigrants were blamed for the increase in petty crime.

Youth crime/ juvenile delinquency (=committed by children and teenagers): Police blame
gangs for a third of all juvenile crime in the city.

Alleged crime (=not proved to have happened): No evidence of the alleged crime

was presented.

Organized crime (=committed by large organizations of criminals): The growing threats of

terrorism and organized crime

CRIME + NOUN

a crime wave (=a sudden increase in crime in an area) Larger cities have been the

worst hit by the crime wave.

a crime spree (=when one person commits a lot of crimes in a short time) He was

arrested after a two-day crime spree.

crime prevention The police can give you advice on crime prevention.

the crime rate The crime rate has gone up.

crime figures/statistics The new crime figures are not good.

a crime syndicate American English (=an organization of criminals) Women found

themselves trapped by crime syndicates into prostitution.

a crime writer (=someone who writes stories about crimes, especially murder)

PHRASES

Victim of crime: Victims of crime do not always report the offence.

The scene of the crime (also the crime scene): Detectives were already at the scene of the
crime.

To be tough on crime (=punish crime severely): Politicians want to appear tough on crime.

To be soft on crime (=not punish crime severely enough): He accused the government of
being soft on crime.
Exam questions

Part 1:

What do you think the most common crime in your country is?

In my country there are so many crimes that are slowly becoming common. But, I think eve
teasing is the most common crime our country witnesses. In the eyes of law, it might not be
a very big crime, but as an individual it kills away your right to freely moving with self-respect
intact. Most of the times, the women that get raped are the ones that were eve teased by the
same criminal.

Should police in your country be stricter or less strict?

In my opinion, it is not about being more strict or less but more about being smart. That is
very important. They need to realize ways to stop crime rather than bringing out difficult
punishments for the criminals, because we don’t want more of criminals dying but less of
individuals becoming criminals.

Part 2

Describe a crime you involved in.

You should say:
When it was?
What crime it was?
Why you got involved?
How did you feel?

Model Answer:

Well, most of us do not have any criminal intent, yet once in a while, we get involved in
wrongdoings intentionally or unintentionally.
Here I would like to narrate an incident when I was caught for committing a crime and was
penalized for the same. I vividly remember I was almost fifteen years old. Most teenagers of
my age are curious to ride motorbikes. I requested my father many times to teach me how to
ride a bike but he always refused to do so and warned me not to try until you turn 18 as it is
illegal to ride a vehicle I always used to keep on thinking and dreaming of riding a bike at full
speed. One day, I was home alone. I took it as an opportunity and invited one of my friends at
home and out of curiosity we took the bike on the main road. I was driving it comfortably with
my friend sitting behind and all of a sudden, a traffic police officer stopped us at an
intersection for not wearing a helmet and when he enquired about the driving licence we got
numb.
The officer said, it is a crime to drive without a licence and since we were underaged too he
arrested us. My father arrived at the police station as soon as he got the news and he
pleaded with the officer to release us. We promised the officer that it will not happen again,
but my father still had to pay Rs. 5000 huge fine. At this point, my father was very angry for
not obeying him but I apologised to my father and felt sorry wholeheartedly and said I have
learnt the lesson and I will not get involved in any ill-activity again.

Part 3

What is the best way for police to keep neighborhoods safe?

The best way to keep neighborhoods safe is the presence of policemen. When almost every
area has a policeman standing, I think it becomes more difficult for a crime to happen.
Because, at the end, most of the criminals are beginners at some point of time and if we are
able to stop them at that moment, I think most of the criminals can be ejected from the
society.

Can you tell if a kid will grow up to be a criminal?

No, I don’t think that one can tell if a child will be a criminal or not. Because, you never know
what strikes the mind of an individual when they commit crime. There have been cases when
people have grown up in criminal families, hating the criminal world and its violence. And then
people, who had quite life, but because of certain incidence turned out to be criminals.
 Bonus Phrases:

Prison

• The role of the prison should be twofold; apart from protecting innocent people from
criminals, it should also rehabilitate former prisoners back to the society in effective
ways.
• Research shows that former prisoners almost always get back to prison. Hence, it
seems that the penal system is failing us.
• Instead of putting criminals in solitary confinement, the legal system should be set
up in such a way that it trains prisoners to learn a trade and gain qualifications that
will help them survive when they get out of prison.
• Prisoners need help and support not only while they serve their sentence but most
importantly when they are released trying to lead a new life.
• For petty crimes, it is preferable to do community service instead of going to prison.
• The cops believe they have both participated in an alleged crime and wish to get one or
both to give evidence.
• He called for making payment delinquency a felony crime in some cases.
• The agency also recently hosted a meeting of prefectural police to coordinate
investigations into crimes tied to the bad loans.
• Compared to most cities, Cedar Rapids has very little crime.
• The number of crimes reported in the New York City area has decreased dramatically
over the last ten years the growing problem of crime in the inner cities
• Reynolds became involved in petty crime at a very young age.
• Not surprisingly, the police say that 50% of serious crimes are drug-related.
• Increasing the number of patrol cars on the street has not had any effect on the level of
serious crime.
• He was sentenced to 25 years in prison for rape and other sexual crimes against
women.
• The police would let him use their files because he usually brought back good tips from
the crime underworld.
• For everyone there is a problem in understanding the nature of the crime when no
motive can be identified.
• The demonstrators called on the governor to make solving the crime a priority.
• Investigators believe that the crime was committed at around 7.30 p.m.
• In his past, however, there is an unsolved crime that continues to torment him.
• Violent crime increased by 11% last year.
E – crime

• People should be wary of cyber-criminals who hack into their computers illegally on
a global scale.
• Being online makes you instantly vulnerable that’s why you should always take the
right precautions to avoid falling victim to e-crime.
• It is advisable not to give away personal information online unless you trust the
source and it is important to invest in your security by installing and
updating security software.
• Dishonesty and deception are very common online and more often than not what
looks harmless on the surface may hide dangers that could ruin your life.
• Keep your personal computer safe from infections that could spread throughout your
system.
Vocabulary

Types of Environmental Degradation

Land and soil degradation: Degradation of soil quality from poor farming practices,
excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, leakage from landfills etc.
Water degradation: Pollution of water from trash dumped in oceans, illegal dumping,
disposal of large amounts of industrial waste into nearby rivers or lakes etc.
Atmospheric (air) degradation: This includes air degradation, particle pollution and
the depletion of the ozone layer.
Several other kinds of pollution: Apart from land, water and atmospheric
degradation, many other kinds of pollution such as noise pollution, light pollution that
are part of environmental degradation.

Causes of Environmental Degradation

➢ Land Disturbance

A more basic cause of environmental degradation is land damage. Numerous weedy plant
species, for example, garlic & mustard, are both foreign and obtrusive.

➢ Pollution

Pollution, in whatever form, whether it is air, water, land or noise is harmful to the
environment. Air pollution pollutes the air that we breathe, which causes health issues.

Water pollution degrades the quality of water that we use for drinking purposes. Land
pollution results in the degradation of the earth’s surface as a result of human activities.

Noise pollution can cause irreparable damage to our ears when exposed to continuous
large sounds like honking of vehicles on a busy road or machines producing large noise in a
factory or a mill.

➢ Overpopulation

Rapid population growth puts strain on natural resources, which results in the degradation
of our environment.
More population simply means more demand for food, clothes and shelter. You need more
space to grow food and provide homes to millions of people. This results in deforestation,
which is another factor in environmental degradation.

➢ Landfills

Landfills pollute the environment and destroy the beauty of the city. Landfills come within
the city due to the large amount of waste that gets generated by households, industries,
factories and hospitals.

Landfills pose a great risk to the health of the environment and the people who live there.
Landfills produce a foul smell when burned and cause substantial environmental
degradation.

➢ Deforestation

Deforestation is the cutting down of trees to make way for more homes and industries. Rapid
growth in population and urban sprawl are two of the major causes of deforestation.

Apart from that, the use of forest land for agriculture, animal grazing, harvest for fuelwood
and logging are some of the other causes of deforestation. Deforestation contributes to
global warming as decreased forest size puts carbon back into the environment.

➢ Natural Causes

Things like tidal waves, storms, and wildfires can totally crush nearby animal and plant
groups to the point where they can no longer survive in those areas.

Effects of Environmental Degradation

✓ Impact on Human Health

Human health might be at the receiving end as a result of environmental degradation. Areas
exposed to toxic air pollutants can cause respiratory problems like pneumonia and asthma.
Millions of people are known to have died due to the indirect effects of air pollution.

✓ Loss of Biodiversity

Biodiversity is important for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem in the form of
combating pollution, restoring nutrients, protecting water sources and stabilizing
climate. Deforestation, global warming, overpopulation and pollution are a few of the major
causes of loss of biodiversity.

✓ Ozone Layer Depletion

The ozone layer is responsible for protecting the earth from harmful ultraviolet rays. As it will
deplete, it will emit harmful radiation back to the earth.

✓ Loss For the Tourism Industry

The deterioration of the environment can be a huge setback for the tourism industry that
relies on tourists for their daily livelihood. Environmental damage in the form of loss of green
cover, loss of biodiversity, huge landfills, increased air and water pollution can be a big turn
off for most of the tourists.

✓ Economic Impact

The huge cost that a country may have to borne due to environmental degradation can have
a significant economic impact in terms of restoration of green cover, cleaning up of
landfills and protection of endangered species. The economic impact can also be in terms
of the loss of the tourism industry.

Various Causes of Air pollution

▪ The Burning of Fossil Fuels

Sulfur dioxide emitted from the combustion of fossil fuels like coal, petroleum for energy in
power plants, and other factory combustibles is one the major cause of air pollution.

Billions of vehicles run on roads are powered by gasoline and diesel engines that burn
petroleum for releasing energy. Petroleum is made up of hydrocarbons, and engines don’t
burn them cleanly. As a result, pollutants such as carbon monoxide, organic compounds, and
lead emit from vehicles causing a high level of pollution. These modes of transportation form
part of our daily basic needs, so we rely on them heavily. But, their overuse is killing our
environment as dangerous gases are polluting the atmosphere. Carbon Monoxide caused by
improper or incomplete combustion and generally emitted from vehicles is another major
pollutant along with Nitrogen Oxides, that is produced from both natural and man-made
processes.

▪ Agricultural Activities
Ammonia is a very common byproduct of agriculture-related activities and is one of the most
hazardous gases in the atmosphere. The use of insecticides, pesticides, and fertilizers in
agricultural activities has grown quite a lot. They emit harmful chemicals into the air and can
also cause water pollution.

Farmers also set the field and old crops on fire in order to keep them clean for the next round
of sowing. The burning to clean fields is said to cause pollution by releasing harmful gases in
the air.

▪ Waste in Landfills

Landfills are land areas in which waste is deposited or buried. These deposited or buried
wastes generate methane. Methane is a major greenhouse gas that is highly flammable and
very hazardous.

▪ Exhaust From Factories and Industries

Manufacturing industries release a large amount of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons,

organic compounds, and chemicals into the air, thereby depleting the quality of air.

Manufacturing industries can be found at every corner of the earth, and there is no area that
has not been affected by it. Petroleum refineries also release hydrocarbons and various other
chemicals that pollute the air and also cause land pollution.

▪ Mining Operations

Mining is a process wherein minerals below the earth are extracted using large equipment.
During the process, dust and chemicals are released in the air causing massive air pollution.
This is one of the reasons which is responsible for the deteriorating health conditions of
workers and nearby residents.

▪ Indoor Air Pollution

Household cleaning products, painting supplies emit toxic chemicals in the air and cause air
pollution. Have you ever noticed that once you paint the walls of your house, it creates some
sort of smell that makes it literally impossible for you to breathe
The Causes of Water Pollution

• Industrial Waste
Industries and industrial sites across the world are a major contributor to water pollution.
Many industrial sites produce waste in the form of toxic chemicals and pollutants, and
though regulated, some still do not have proper waste management systems in place. In
those rare cases, industrial waste is dumped into nearby freshwater systems. When
industrial waste is not treated properly (or worse, not treated at all), it can very easily pollute
the freshwater systems that it comes into contact with.

Industrial waste from agricultural sites, mines and manufacturing plants can make its way into
rivers, streams and other bodies of water that lead directly to the sea. The toxic chemicals in
the waste produced by these industries not only have the potential to make water unsafe for
human consumption, they can also cause the temperature in freshwater systems to change,
making them dangerous for many water dwelling organisms.

• Marine Dumping
The process of marine dumping is exactly what it sounds like, dumping garbage into the
waters of the ocean. Household garbage is still collected and dumped into oceans by many
countries across the world. Most of these items can take anywhere from two to 200 years to
decompose completely.

• Sewage and Wastewater

Harmful chemicals, bacteria and pathogens can be found in sewage and wastewater even
when it’s been treated. Sewage and wastewater from each household is released into the sea
with fresh water. The pathogens and bacteria found in that wastewater breed disease, and
therefore are a cause of health-related issues in humans and animals alike.

• Oil Leaks and Spills

The age-old phrase “like water and oil” is used when describing two things that do not mix
easily or at all. Just as the saying states, water and oil do not mix, and oil does not dissolve in
water. Large oil spills and oil leaks, while often accidental, are a major cause of water
pollution. Leaks and spills often are caused by oil drilling operations in the ocean or ships
that transport oil.

• Agriculture
In order to protect their crops from bacteria and insects, farmers often use chemicals and
pesticides. When these substances seep into the groundwater, they can harm animals,
plants and humans. Additionally, when it rains, the chemicals mix with rainwater, which then
flows into rivers and streams that filter into the ocean, causing further water pollution.
 • Global Warming
Rising temperatures due to global warming are a major concern in terms of water pollution.
Global warming causes water temperatures to rise, which can kill water-dwelling animals.
When large die-offs occur, it further pollutes the water supply, exacerbating the issue.

There are many everyday ways you can help reduce global warming, which will in turn help
lower water pollution. These methods include recycling, carpooling and using CFL bulbs in
your home.

• Radioactive Waste
Radioactive waste from facilities that create nuclear energy can be extremely hazardous to
the environment and must be disposed of properly. This is because uranium, the element
used in the creation of nuclear energy, is a highly toxic chemical.

Unfortunately, accidents still occur at these facilities, and toxic waste is released into the
environment. The coal and gas industries are, in many ways, no better. This is one of the
major impetuses behind the development of alternative, clean sources of energy, including
solar and wind.

Causes of Soil Contamination

Industrial waste

Industries are by far the worst polluters of the soil with all the chemicals they release into the
environment be it in liquid or solid form.

Deforestation

Clearing of trees leaves soil exposed to the elements so they are easily carried away by soil
erosion. This leaves land barren and incapable of supporting vegetation.

Excessive use of fertilisers and pesticides

The increased demand for food has forced farmers to use fertilisers and pesticides that
release nothing but toxins into the soil, killing useful microorganisms that are important in
plant growth.

Garbage pollution

Garbage that cannot be recycled is disposed of carelessly and this is not only an eyesore but
pollutes the land. Some of this waste can literally take thousands of years to decompose!

Solutions to Environmental Degradation

▪ Stop Deforestation
In order to mitigate the adverse effects of environmental degradation, stopping
deforestation is crucial for our environmental system. We cannot afford to cut or burn trees
down as trees store greenhouse gases, produce oxygen and are the natural habitat for
many animals and plants, which may become endangered if these forests are destroyed.

An extensive afforestation campaign should be launched in the interest of environmental

protection. We can further make a positive impact through reforestation or afforestation.

▪ Government Regulations

Governments require intervening and setting a framework whenever there are problems that
lead to significant eco-degradation. Governments set high taxes for activities that harm our
planet and support environmentally-friendly behavior with financial subsidies. These will
also force industries and private people to avoid activities that lead
to environmental degradation.

▪ Fines and Punishment For Illegal dumping

There should also be high fines for illegal dumping to reduce the adverse ecological
consequences. People and industries will continue to dump their trash illegally as they
know that even if they get caught, penalties are quite low. Therefore, raising fines for illegal
dumping would increase the incentive to dispose of trash at official waste disposal sites.

▪ Reduce Consumption Levels

It has become essential to reduce our consumption levels. Our developed society always
strives for the latest electronics, smartphones, and the trendiest clothes and so on. However,
this behavior leads to huge resource depletion and excessive production of waste. We have
to lower our consumption levels significantly to avoid the adverse ecological consequences.

▪ Reuse and Reduce Waste Generation

You can reduce waste production by using your items and food more efficiently. If you want to
get rid of old but still working things, be creative to give it a new look or use it in another way.
By doing so, your material things will be used more effectively. If they cannot be put to use
anymore, separate them and give them for recycling.

▪ Avoid Plastic

Plastic waste is a big environmental problem that leads to significant plastic pollution and the
degradation of our planet. In order to cut down plastic waste, avoid buying items with plastic
wrapper or packaging, refrain from using disposable plastic bags, cups, plates, containers,
cutlery, etc. Instead, bring your own reusable stuff, which can be reused several times.

▪ Education

It is highly essential that children should know about the adverse environmental
consequences of our daily life behavior and the ways we can improve our ecological footprint.
This education should start early in school. Children are usually more eager to learn new
things and change their behavior compared to adults. These children are more likely to act in
an environmentally-friendly manner when they grow up, and they might also convince their
parents to behave in a more ecologically friendly way.
Part 1-style questions

Examiner: Are there any environmental problems in your country?

Kelly: Yes … we have a serious issue with pollution levels in some of our big cities
… exhaust fumes from cars and lorries are definitely one reason for the problem but we also
have a lot of heavy industry in some areas and this also results in poor air quality …

Examiner: Do you take an interest in nature?

Jenny: Well … I’m a city person through and through and don’t get back to nature very
often I’m afraid … but like everyone else I’m fascinated by the natural world and I like
watching documentaries showing wild animals in their natural habitat …

Examiner: Do you or your family take steps to help the environment?

Mira: My parents have always tried to make us aware of our impact on the
environment … they’re really into energy conservation … and always try to
buy environmentally friendly products if they have the chance …

Part 2-style task

Describe an environmental problem that has been in the news. You should say

• when this was

• where the event happened
• what actually took place

and say how you felt about this problem.

Martin: Well … this is an interesting question … there are so many issues I could think of
… natural disasters like earthquakes and floods seem to be in the news almost every year
… but there was one story recently about some animals that were under threat … it wasn’t
focused on one place in particular … it was looking at various animals that could
actually become extinct in different African countries … if we don’t take steps to protect them
… these were really iconic animals like gorillas … leopards … rhinos … and apparently
they’re now listed as endangered species … what made it really depressing was they were
in danger thanks to us … in some cases it was due to a loss of habitat either because
people need more agricultural production … or even worse I think … because of hunting
and poaching … I hate to think of future generations being robbed of the chance to see
creatures like these in their natural environment … it’s lucky we have lots of
organisations that focus on wildlife conservation … hopefully with their help we can put
pressure on those in power to do something to stop creatures like these dying out …
Part 3-style questions

Examiner: What do you think is the main danger the world faces in terms of the environment?
Spencer: Well … climate change is a real issue … in my country we have flash floods and
heatwaves on a yearly basis … so yes … I think global warming is the biggest issue.

Examiner: What examples are there of how we damage the natural world?
Stella: There are so many examples … there are factories that empty toxic waste into rivers
and oceans … oil spills that damage the coastline … the way we destroy vast areas of
land and rain forests in search of fossil fuels or to increase agricultural production …

Examiner: In which ways do we respond well to environmental problems?

Mathius: Well … on the one hand there are various worldwide agencies that are always the
first on the scene with humanitarian aid after natural and man-made disasters … and on
the other hand we have environmental pressure groups that are constantly raising
awareness of issues and trying to stop disasters happening …

BONUS Phrases

Climate Change

• As citizens, it is advisable to keep electricity consumption to the minimum and use

energy efficient light bulbs.
• It will make a significant difference if governments economise on the natural
resources and take advantage of renewable energy that doesn’t run out
• The destruction of forests increases at such an alarming rate that governments all
over the world should consider a reforestation project as soon as possible.
• Global warming has severe consequences; the climate change will cause the rise of
sea level leading to hurricanes and floods.
• Deforestation and acid rain have devastating consequences.
• The emission of toxic gases, such as carbon dioxide, can damage the
environment
• Harmful acid rain is responsible for the contamination of food and water; thus, in
this poisonous atmosphere people can never be sure for what they eat, drink, or even
breathe.
• There is the need of an environmentally sustainable plan that will not destroy natural
resources and consequently people’s health
Recycling

• Governments should take effective measures to eliminate the toxic fumes released
into the atmosphere by the disposal of waste, especially plastic.
• It will make a huge difference if all companies used biodegradable plastic for their
products, as the disposal of regular plastic is a threat to the environment.
• Governments should use the media in order to raise public awareness in relation to
recycling.
• Governments should create laws to combat the problem of the disposal of waste and
ensure that people abide by these laws through regular inspections.
• If governments don’t tackle this issue immediately, the consequences are going to
be catastrophic in the long run.
• It is imperative that the issue of waste is addressed so as to reduce the risk to
people’s health due to potential health hazards.