VOCABULARY BANK
by Tamara Illyassova
VOCABULARY BANK
1. People. Social Interactions.
Family and Friends.
Appearance. Personality. Relationships.
2. Education
3. Nature and Environment.
Global problems, social tensions and solutions.
Weather
Gender Equality. Men and Women.
4. Health.
Food and Diet.
Healthcare and Sports
5. Government and Politics
Crime and the Law
Social Tensions
6. Hometown and Country
Travel
Holidays
Accommodation
Geography, Languages
Transport, On the Road
7. Media communication, entertainment and Arts
Books, Film and Music
Advertising
News
8. Money and Finance
Business
Shopping: Clothes and Fashion
9. Science, IT and Languages
10.Workplace
Vocabulary 1 Family (closest community) and Friends
birth rate (the number of live births per thousand of population per year)
acquaintance / mate / buddy / pal / friendship / inseparable / crony (close friend)
commitment to the relationship / intimate relationship
relatives / siblings / kinship / in-laws
soulmate / marriage partners / spouse / fiancée
take on the role of housewife/husband / sacrifice their careers
equal opportunities / equal rights movements / respect
parental role / assume childcare responsibilities
monetary needs / materialistic and consumer driven culture
breadwinner - a person who earns the money to support family
strengthen the ties between family members / bonding
be on good terms / get on with / be close to / sympathise with
admire / adore / be fond of / noble, amiable, generous person
have a lot in common / shared interests / see eye to eye
positive outlook on life
to cope with modern life / fall out with … / fight with
withstand the hindrances and problems that they can encounter
children need a strong support system
a fulfilled and happy life are emotional security and comfort
decline in the closeness of families / alienated
family life / starting a family
nuclear / extended family
divorced / separated / single-parent family / dysfunctional family
authoritarian / responsible individual
dependent / adopt / foster (child) / orphans
upbringing / background
raise / bring up / nurture / discipline / influence / inspire / encourage
mould / shape personality
over-protective / strict supervision
lenient / well-adjusted
rebellious / running wild / juvenile delinquency
infancy: infant / baby / toddler / youngling / offspring
adolescence / formative years: child / kid / youngster / adolescent / teenager / minor
-
we seek contentment / health, security, financial stability or success
depending on a person’s age, culture or background, norms and values
on a daily basis / regularly
adults equate happiness with
an integral part of the local community
a feeling of pleasure in a particular moment
a state of mind
opposed to… for ethical reasons
A little bit of empathy and understanding might go a long way in making the life easier
Appearance
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you look like any other people in your family?
Carlo: No … not at all … take my brother for example … he has short cropped hair and has
quite a pointed face … he’s also quite fair-skinned compared to me …
Examiner: Tell me about your family.
Andrea: My father’s getting on a bit … he’s in his 60s … but he looks very young for his
age … he still does lots of exercise and is quite well-built …
Examiner: What does your best friend look like?
Mandy: She’s the same age as me … she has shoulder-length hair… fair hair … she has a slim
figure and is medium height …
Part 2-style task
Describe a person whose appearance you like. You should say
• who this person is
•
what their relationship is to you
•
what they look like
and say what it is about their appearance you like.
Monique: OK … I’d like to talk about my aunt … her name’s Marta and she’s quite a character
… she’s middle-aged but has a very youthful appearance … she’s a little overweight I
suppose but not too much … she has a friendly round face framed by thick blonde hair … she
has a lovely complexion and she’s always well-turned out … she actually always looks like
she’s going out for the evening to somewhere special … there’s never a hair out of place …
I’ve always thought she bears a striking resemblance to someone on TV … I can’t remember
the name now … she wears glasses and always seems to have a different pair on every time I see
her … I like the way she looks because she wears clothes that are right for her age and manages
to look glamorous without it looking like she’s too done up … yes … I’ll be happy if I look like
her when I’m her age
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Is it important to dress well whenever we go out?
Mark: It depends where you’re going … I know some people get done up just to go to the shops
… but I don’t see the point … you shouldn’t go out looking scruffy with disheveled hair but I
really don’t see the point in getting dressed up to the nines unless you’re going somewhere
special …
Examiner: Do people worry too much about their appearance as they get older?
Mira: I’m sure they do … yes … but it happens to all of us doesn’t it … we all go
grey eventually and get hard of hearing … we start to lose our figure … that’s why plastic
surgery is so popular … personally I think we just need to grow old gracefully and not worry
too much about how we look …
Examiner: Is attractiveness a quality worthwhile aiming for?
Phoebe: I’d like to say no … it shouldn’t matter what we look like in terms of our physical
appearance … but unfortunately it seems women especially are taken more seriously if they
are good looking with a slender figure with perfect make up and so on …
Definitions
• to bear a striking resemblance: to look very similar to
• cropped hair: very short hair
• disheveled hair: untidy hair
• to dress up to the nines: to dress very smartly or glamorously
• fair hair: light-coloured hair
• to be fair-skinned: light skinned
• to get done up: to dress smartly
• to be getting on a bit: to be getting old
• to go grey: to have hair that is turning grey
• to be good looking: to be attractive
• to grow old gracefully: to act in a way that embraces the fact you are getting older
• to be hard of hearing: to find it difficult to hear
• in his/her 30s/40s: to be 20/30 something
• scruffy: dressed untidily
• to look young for your age: to look younger than you are
• to lose one’s figure: to have a figure that has lost its toned shape
• complexion: natural skin colour and texture
• make up: cosmetics
• medium height: average height
• middle-aged: approximately between 45-65
• to never have a hair out of place: perfectly styled hair
• to be overweight: to weigh more than is regarded as healthy
• pointed face: the opposite of a round face
• shoulder-length hair: hair that comes down to the shoulders and no further
• slender figure: a figue that is tall and slim
• slim figure: attractively thin
• thick hair: a lot of hair
• to wear glasses: to use spectacles
• to be well-built: to be muscular
• to be well-turned out: to look smart
• youthful appearance: to look young
Personality
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: How would you describe yourself?
Paula: Everyone tells me I take after my mum as I’m quite laid-back … I think I’m good
company but you should ask my friends if they agree …
Examiner: In which ways are you similar to your friends?
Manuel: I seem to be attracted to introverts … not people who are painfully shy but most of my
friends are a little reserved … and I think that’s what I’m like …
Examiner: Are you similar or different to your brother(s)/sister(s)?
Mira: I think my brother and I are very similar … I’d say we’re fun-loving and tend to be a
bit extroverted … my brother is certainly the life and soul of the party … I’m not sure that
applies to me …
Part 2-style task
Describe a teacher you once had who you enjoyed being taught by. You should say
• who this person was
•
when they were your teacher
•
which subject they taught you
and describe what it was about their character that you liked.
Carolina: I’d like to describe my English teacher from school … Miss Thomas … this was a few
years ago now and she was my teacher at a time when I was getting a little bored with being at
school … unlike some of the other teachers Miss Thomas never lost her temper … she was very
calm and easy-going … she was also very broad-minded … we were able to ask her questions
about lots of subjects that some other teachers would refuse to discuss which made us respect her
even more … she had a great sense of humour too … she’d laugh at our jokes as well as making
us laugh … and she would also bend over backwards to help us with our work … she
always put us first and often stayed around at the end of class to talk with anyone who needed
help … apparently she was highly respected within her field but you would never know as she
was the type that hid her light under a bushel … she was very modest and self-effacing … so
yes … Miss Thomas was a teacher I have fond memories of …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Which personal qualities do you think we most want to pass on to our children?
Martin: I certainly would want my children to be self-confident and self-assured … I really
believe that people who feel good about themselves are in a good position to face what life has to
offer them … and I’d hope they wouldn’t be self-centred … but remembered to think about
others …
Examiner: Which characteristics do you think are the least appealing in a person?
Marianne: Well … people who are very narrow-minded are difficult to get on with … it’s nice
when someone is open to other people’s opinion and willing to think about their own views …
and people who are two-faced can be a little irritating … relationships are built on trust and
without honesty there’s not much left …
Examiner: Which personality types do you think are less likely to suffer from stress or anxiety?
Sol: Probably people who are thick-skinned … who don’t let people or problems affect them too
much … and if you are fair-minded you’ll be less likely to overreact to situations or be quicktempered …
Definitions
• to be the life and soul of the party: a fun person, someone who is the centre of activity
• to bend over backwards: to try very hard to help someone
• broad-minded: prepared to accept other views or behaviours
• easy-going: relaxed and not easily worried about anything
• extrovert: an energetic person who likes the company of others
• fair-minded: to treat people equally
• fun-loving: to enjoy having fun
• to hide one’s light under a bushel: to hide one’s talents and skills
• good company: enjoyable to socialise with
• good sense of humour: the ability to understand what is funny
• introvert: someone who is shy
• laid-back: see ‘easy-going’
• to lose one’s temper: to suddenly become angry
• narrow minded: opposite of ‘broad-minded’ (see above)
• painfully shy: very shy
• to put others first: to think of others before yourself
• quick-tempered: to become angry quickly
• reserved: shy
• self-assured: confident
• self-centred: thinks only of oneself
• self-confident: believes in one’s own ability or knowledge
• self-effacing: to not try to get the attention of others (especially in terms of hiding one’s
skills or abilities)
• to take after: to be like (often another member of the family)
• thick-skinned: not easily affected by criticism
• trustworthy: can be trusted
• two-faced: not honest or sincere. Will say one thing to someone to their face and another
when they are not present.
Relationships
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you see your friends very often?
Louisa: Yes … we meet up most weekends … we all get on really well and have a lot in
common so we’re always happy doing the same things and going to the same places.
Examiner: What do you like about your close friends?
Anna: I think we enjoy each other’s company … we see eye-to-eye on most things so we
rarely fall out with each other.
Examiner: Have you known each other long?
Amy: Most of them yes … although my closest friend Carrie … we struck up a relationship at
college and got on like a house on fire… but yes … my other friendships go back years to
when we were at school.
Part 2-style task
Describe a person you are very close to. You should say:
• who this person is
•
when you met them
•
where you met them
and say what it is about them you like so much.
Reiko: I’d like to talk about my boyfriend … Jose … we got to know each other at University
almost 4 years ago … we were in the same department … initially we were just good
friends and used to go out in a group with our other friends … when Jose went back to Spain for
the holidays we would keep in touch with each other … then one year he invited me to come to
Spain with him … and that’s when we fell for each other I think … so you couldn’t really say it
was love at first sight as it had been over a year since we’d met … but we really hit it off and
by the time we got back to university in September we were able to tell all our friends that we
were in a relationship … what do I like about Jose … well he’s very kind … very funny … and
very supportive … and we’re really well matched in our interests … he hasn’t popped the
question yet though … we’ve talked about getting married and I think we’re both ready to settle
down and have children … we’ll just have to wait and see …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Do you think marriage is still as important as ever?
Cristine: Yes … it certainly is in my country … I think the problem for some people is a lack of
commitment … all relationships have their ups and downs …. but some people prefer to break
up rather than working at the relationship.
Examiner: What do you think is the ideal time to get married?
Terry: Personally … I think you should wait until you’ve found yourself first … decided if you
want a career … perhaps do some travelling … you should do this before tying the knot …
although if you fall head over heels in love plans like these can easily be forgotten.
Examiner: Is it important to keep in contact with our friends when we’re in a relationship?
Maria: Absolutely … it’s so easy to drift apart from your friends when you fall in love … but I
think both partners should try not to lose touch with their friends … that’s the best way to have
a healthy relationship with your partner.
Definitions
• to break up: to end a romantic relationship
• to drift apart: to become less close to someone
• to enjoy someone’s company: to like spending time with someone
• to fall for: to fall in love
• to fall head over heels in love: to start to love someone a lot
• to fall out with: to have a disagreement and stop being friends
• to get on like a house on fire: to like someone’s company very much indeed
• to get on well with: to understand someone and enjoy similar interests
• to get to know: to begin to know someone
• to go back years: to have known someone for a long time
• to have a lot in common: to share similar interests
• to have ups and downs: to have good and bad times
• a healthy relationship: a good, positive relationship
• to hit it off: to quickly become good friends with
• to be in a relationship: to be romantically involved with someone
• to be just good friends: to not be romantically involved
• to keep in touch with: to keep in contact with
• to lose touch with: to not see or hear from someone any longer
• love at first sight: to fall in love immediately you meet someone
• to pop the question: to ask someone to marry you
• to see eye to eye: to agree on a subject
• to settle down: to give up the single life and start a family
• to strike up a relationship: to begin a friendship
• to tie the knot: to get married
• to be well matched: to be similar to
• to work at a relationship: to try to maintain a positive relationship with someone
There is a general increase in anti-social behaviours and lack of respect for others. What
are the causes and solutions?
The widespread problem of anti-social behaviours and disrespectful attitudes towards
others has long been a major topic of concern in society. Some of the major culprits of this
problem will be discussed before the most important solutions are drawn.
Reasons for this alarming situation vary. In some cases, people may hold an anti-social
attitude or disrespect others because they live in an environment where violence and
discrimination are the norms. For example, children of sexist parents in rural families in
Vietnam, irrespective of their gender, show a worrying tendency of disrespecting women.
In some other cases, it is the lack of parental guidance that is to blame. As modern parents
are becoming increasingly busy with their jobs, they may have the proclivity to be
indifferent to children education. When there is no one to help young children distinguish
between the good and the bad, ill-mannered attitudes may emerge and develop among
them without being controlled.
A number of definite actions could be taken to mitigate the problem. On the national level,
the first obvious solution is to reduce violence and discrimination. As this would be a
massive act, all voters and legislators should be responsible. Together, they could call for
stricter enforcement of the laws on violent and discriminatory acts to deter them from
happening. In addition, on the nuclear-family level, parents must not underestimate the
significance of their guidance for children. If they notice any signs of an anti-social or
insolent manner in children, they must provide them with negative evaluations of these
signs. At the same time, parents could also educate their children about social manners by
instilling a pro-social sense in them. These actions, albeit small, could have a strong
influence on children when they mature.
To conclude, it is clear that violence, discrimination and the indifference of parents to
children education are the major catalysts for increase in anti-social behaviours and
disrespect for others. Strong measures, such as stringent law enforcement on violent and
discriminatory acts, must be taken to alleviate this distressing situation.
Vocabulary:
rural families - сельские семьи
worrying tendency - тревожная тенденция
parental guidance - родительское воспитание
ill-mannered attitudes - disrespect, irrespective / плохо воспитанный
emerge - appear, show up / появляться, всплывать
proclivity - tendency / склонность
insolent manner - rude, arrogant, lack of respect / нагло
instilling a pro-social sense - прививать про-социальное чувство
stringent law enforcement - строгое соблюдение закона
alleviate - make less severe / смягчать
PARENTING and CHILDCARE
Some people are of the opinion that children should be rewarded for good behaviour. Others
think they should be punished for bad behaviour.
Discuss both views and give your personal opinion and reasons.
The debate over a child’s moral education is difficult due to the various view points each
party holds. The question of discipline is exceptionally important, moreover whether to
treat good behaviour with a neutral attitude or to just focus on correcting incorrect actions.
My personal opinion is that any positive actions ought to be immediately recognised by the
parent and vice versa for negative conduct. This balanced approach makes for a more
positive outcome for both the child and family.
Firstly rewarding a good act immediately signals a positive reaction in the child’s brain
which should encourage the child to want to behave similar in the future. Failure to
recognise such behaviour leaves the child with the same emotional feeling as if they had
done nothing. Therefore rewarding the child regularly for good behaviour enforces the
action making it more likely to repeat itself in the future.
Secondly punishing the son or daughter is also necessary, failure to discipline could have
serious consequences in the future. For example if a child has no clear concept of respect
for elders or authority it is quite possible to encounter more serious problems later in life.
This pattern is prevalent in marginal neighbourhoods throughout the world. Therefore
it is essential to immediately discipline the child whenever witnessing an unruly act so as
to enforce the correct behaviour from an early age.
To conclude both bad and good actions need to be recognised and dealt with immediately to
correct or encourage the future actions. Failure to do either of these could result in a less
fortunate life or a youth who rarely performs any good acts for anyone. Therefore it is
critical that both types of behaviour are recognised dealt with accordingly for the benefit
of the child in the future.
Vocabulary:
vice versa - opposite / наоборот
This pattern is prevalent in marginal neighbourhood throughout the world. - Эта модель
поведения распространенна на окраинах по всему миру.
unruly act - naughty / непослушное поведение
witness - a person who sees something take place / свидетель
behave - conduct yourself / вести себя
enforces - принуждать / заставлять
should be dealt with accordingly - должно решаться соответсвенно
SOCIETY and GENERATION DIFFERENCES
Young people have different ideas and attitudes than their parents and grandparents. What
are the differences and what problem it may cause?
Generation gap is nothing new and it is not uncommon for children to have radically different
views from their parents and grandparents on many aspects of life. Most of the times, these
differences pertain to areas such as relationships, career and health and sometimes they do cause
problems.
To begin with, young people have a rather carefree and casual attitude towards marriage and
relationships. They are more self-centred and insist on having their space in a relationship.
Unfortunately, this leads to more divorces and broken homes. Old people, on the other hand,
consider marriage as a sacred institution. It hurts them when their children get into casual
relationships for fun. In many cases, parents also disapprove of their children’s career choices.
Every parent wants their children to have a safe and secure source of income. Young people, on the
other hand, do not mind taking risks. Many of them want to be their own boss and start up.
Unfortunately, parents often discourage the entrepreneurial ambitions of their children because
they believe that launching one’s own venture is risky. Young people and their parents also tend to
differ on matters concerning health. While the older generation was quite conscious about health,
youngsters tend to take it for granted.
While it is quite common and normal for parents and children to have different opinions on many
things, sometimes these differences do cause problems. For example, young people who are not
serious about relationships are unlikely to have a stable family life and their children are the worst
affected by this. Studies have shown that children coming from dysfunctional families are more
likely to get into anti-social activities. Needless to say, a stable family is the fundamental unit of a
healthy society and it is important for young people to give due importance to their relationships
just like their parents do. Young people should also learn something from their parents about the
importance of eating well and staying healthy. As for career choices, in my opinion, it is important
for parents to trust their children and their vision.
To conclude, it is quite normal for young people and their parents to have different views and
opinions on many matters. Sometimes this does cause problems and in such situations, it is better
for young people to listen to the sage advice of their parents.
Vocabulary:
pertain - relatable / подобать, относиться, иметь отношение к чему-то
carefree / casual / self-centred / having their space - беззаботный, эгоцентричный
sacred institution - священное учреждение
do not mind - не возражать
entrepreneurial ambitions - предпринимательские амбиции
launch a venture - запустить предприятие, авантюру
tend to take for granted - склонны принимать как должное
dysfunctional families - неблагополучная семьи
fundamental unit - фундаментальная единица
sage advice - мудрый совет
Task 1: Complete these sentences with an appropriate word or expression from A, B or C.
1. Mr and Mrs Smith live at home with their two children. They are a typical example of a modern
family
A. extended
B. nuclear
C. compact
2.
Mr and Mrs Popatlal live at home with their aged parents, children and grandchildren. They are a
typical example of a traditional
family
A. nuclear
B. enlarged
C extended
3.
Mrs Jones lives on her own and has to look after her two children. There are a lot of
families like hers
A. single-parent
B. mother-only
C mono-parent
4. Some parents need to
A. bring down
B. bring about
their children more strictly
C bring up
5. When I was a child, I had a very turbulent
A. upbringing
B. upraising
6. Mrs Kelly is
A. divorced
A. convalescence
C uplifting
and finds it difficult to look after her children on her own
B. divided
C diverged
7. Many men believe that
A. childhelp
B. childcare
8.
topic specific vocabulary
Children and the family
is the responsibility of a woman
C chiidaid
is a particularly difficult time of life for a child
B. adolescence
C convergence
9. A person's behaviour can sometimes be traced back to his/her
A. creative years
B. formulating years
C. formative years
10. The country has seen a sharp drop in the
A. birth rate
B. baby rate
11. She has five
A. dependants
12.
in the last few years
C born rate
who rely on her to look after them
B. dependers
C. dependents
is on the rise, with over 20% of serious crimes being committed by children
under the age of seventeen
A. junior crime
B. juvenile delinquency C minor crime
Task 2: Match sentences 1-12 with a second sentence A-M. Use the key words in bold to help you.
1.
Mr and Mrs White are very authoritarian parents.
2. Mr. Bowles is considered to be too lenient.
3. Mr and Mrs Harris lead separate lives.
4. Billy is a well-adjusted kid.
5. The Mannings are not very responsible parents.
6. My parents are separated.
7.
Parents must look after their children, but they shouldn't be over-protective.
8.
Professor Maynard has made a study of the cognitive processes of young children.
9.
I'm afraid my youngest child is running wild.
75
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Children and the family
10. She looks quite different from all her siblings.
11. There are several different and distinct stages of development in a child's life.
12. Tony was raised by a foster family when his own parents died.
A. They don't look after their children very well.
B. He is fascinated by the way they learn new things.
C. He very rarely punishes his children.
D. I live with my mother and visit my father at weekends.
E. He never listens to a word I say, and is always playing truant from school.
F.
Brothers and sisters usually bear some resemblance to one another.
G. Although they are married and live together, they rarely speak to each other.
H. They are very strict with their children.
I.
Of all of these, the teenage years are the most difficult.
J.
Children need the freedom to get out and experience the world around them.
K. He's happy at home and is doing well at school.
L
Foster families take in children who are not their own.
Task 3: Now read this case study and fill in the gaps with one of the words or expressions
from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to
change some of the word forms.
Bob's
problems
began
2
during
his
1
___
years.
His
parents
when he was young, and neither of his parents wanted to raise him or his
brother and sister, so he was 3
by a 4
chosen by his
parent's social worker. Unfortunately, his foster-father was a strict 5
beat him. Bob rebelled against this strict 6
already 7
8
got
and often
, and by the time he was eight, he was
, stealing from shops and playing truant. By the time he reached
, sometime around his thirteenth birthday, he had already appeared in court
several times, charged with 9
that children needed 10
. The judge blamed his foster parents, explaining
parents and guardians who would look after them
properly. The foster father objected to this, pointing out that Bob's 11
brothers and sister - were 12
- his two
children who behaved at home and worked well at
school.
This has raised some interesting questions about the modern family system. While it is true that parents
should not be too 13
want, or be too 14
with children by letting them do what they want when they
by sheltering them from the realities of life, it is also true that
they should not be too strict. It has also highlighted the disadvantages of the modern
15
family where the child has only its mother and father to rely on (or the
16
family, in which the mother or father has to struggle particularly hard to
support their 17
family values and the 18
). In fact, many believe that we should return to traditional
family: extensive research has shown that children from
these families are generally better behaved and have a better chance of success in later life.
76
Peter Collin Publishing, (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Practice Question:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
In your country, what sorts of things do people do together as a family?
Do you live by yourself or with your family?
Is the generation gap between you and your parents a big problem for you?
How would you describe your lifestyle?
Do you have any English speaking friends?
Do you live close to your family? Can you tell me about your fame members?
Do you do much during your free time?
Do you have any plans for the weekend?
Do you like sports?
Do like adventure sports? / Are there any adventure sports that you would like to
try?
Do you play any musical instruments?
What do you do to relax?
Do you prefer to go out in your free time or stay at home? Why? / Do you enjoy
parties? Why/ why not?
How many hours a week do you usually work/ study (English)?
What time do you usually arrive at work/ university?
Do you have many friends?
How long have you known your best friend/ oldest friend?
Which are more important to people, their family or their friends? Why?
What do you think causes friendships to break up?
What do you think are the most important qualities for friends to have
How important is it to learn good communication skills at school?
Why do people need to have good communication and presentation skills?
Do you think the role of grandparents has changed from how it was in the past?
How has it changed?
Do you feel that older people talk more to their family than friends?
Has there been any situation in which you have helped a friend?
What is the role of conversations in our life?
What are people talking about on a daily basis?
What personality (or character) traits are most important (or, most valued) in your
country?Do you think people generally choose to make friends with others with
similar personality traits, or with people who are different?
In what ways do parents want their children to help them (around the home)?
Do parents in your country expect their adult children to give them help?
In general, who do you think is more willing to help others, boys or girls?
How can parents teach their children to help others?
If you had a problem, would you go to your friends or family? Why?
Can you give me an example of such situation?
Do you think it is always better to talk to your friends about such a problem?
When did you last see your friend?
Vocabulary – 2 Education (education system)
pupil / junior / scholar / (under)graduate / apprentice / sophomore / first-year / peer
inquisitive student / thirsty for knowledge / exchange student
nursery / kindergarten / pre-school
rudimentary education / essential / basic principles
private / state (public) school / gymnasium / lyceum
1st-4th grade elementary / junior / primary / grade school
5th-8th grade intermediate / middle school / junior high
9th-12th grade secondary / (senior) high school
college / foundation / A levels
university / higher education / higher institution / tertiary education
education center / after school
(non) verbal, visual learning / compulsory, mandatory, obligatory, required
course / faculty / program / morning - evening - night classes / distance learning
major in Physics / specialising in Arts / occupation / profession
class / lecture / lesson / tutorial / seminar / session / lab work
physical education (PE) / ICT (information communication technology)
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) / IELTS / humanities / applied sciences subjects
enrol into university / being expelled from the university
tuition fee / payment
grant / scholarship / discount / subsidy / financial aid (assistant) / stipend
syllabus / schedule / timetable / curriculum
topic / theme / chapter / theory
quarter / semester / term
teacher / tutor / lecturer / professor / adviser / instructor / supervisor / trainer / coach
communication / correspondence with a tutor about my dissertation
learning resources: textbooks / materials / bibliography / lecture notes / academic papers /
scientific articles / research / video lectures /
acquire / obtain / receive / evaluate / analyse knowledge / emphasis to knowledge
literacy skills / interpersonal skills / experience / abilities / knowledge / expertise / talent
take / fail / retake / retake (an exam)
grades / qualification / degree
high-school diploma / certificate / bachelor (undergraduate) / master (postgraduate) /
doctorate / PhD / MBA
graduate / alumnus
the possibility of taking a gap year
a future aim of mine
passionate about what they are learning
the chance to immerse themselves in
influenced by some of my own experiences, ideas and views
certain key subject areas
fall behind with studies
Education
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Are you studying English at a school?
Michel: Yes … I’m taking an intensive course at a local private language school … I attend
classes three times a week …
Examiner: Would you say you are a good student?
Susan: I’m OK I think … 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 …
Examiner: When you were younger did you enjoy your time at school?
Theo: Yes … I liked 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 …
Part 2-style task
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
and say why you were so happy.
Caroline: 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 Bachelor’s 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
uni 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 don’t think I’ve ever had so many friends … I had
my graduation ceremony last year in the local cathedral and I know my parents were really
proud … so yes … that was a really happy time … I’m thinking of doing a Master’s
Degree soon … though that might be through distance learning as I have a full-time job now …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What qualities do you think a good teacher has?
Anna: They should be patient … they should be subject specialists and be able to explain the
subject clearly … they should give feedback quickly … for example not hang on to essay for
ages like some of my teachers …
Examiner: What are the advantages of studying on a distance learning course?
Florrie: 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 …
Examiner: Do all children get equal opportunities in education?
Julie: 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 …
Definitions
• to attend classes: to go to classes
• bachelor’s degree: an undergraduate course which usually lasts 3-4 years
• boarding school: a school where pupils live during term time
• distance learning: a way of studying where tuition is carried out over the Internet or by post
• face-to-face classes: as opposed to distance learning the traditional way of studying in a
classroom with colleagues and a teacher
• to fall behind with your studies: to progress less quickly than others
• to give feedback: to offer guidance on a student’s work
• a graduation ceremony: an event where a successful student receives his or her academic
degree
• higher education: education, usually in a college or university, that is followed after high
school or secondary school
• an intensive course: a course that offers lots of training in order to reach a goal in as short a
time as possible
• to keep up with your studies: to not fall behind
• to learn something by heart: to memorize it
• a mature student: a student who is older than average and who has usually returned to
education after a period at work
• master’s degree: a period of study which often follows the completion of a bachelors degree
or is undertaken by someone regarded as capable of a higher-level academic course
• 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: an independent school run as a business concern
• public schools: exclusive independent schools in the UK
• a single-sex school: a school where only boys or girls attend (as opposed to a mixed-sex
school)
• to sit an exam: to take an exam
• state school: a school paid for by public funds and available to the general public
• subject specialist: a teacher who has a great deal of knowledge about the subject they teach.
• to take a year out: to spend a year working or travelling before starting university
• tuition fees: the money paid for a course of study
• to work your way through university: to have a paid job whilst studying to support
yourself financially
There has been a dramatic growth in the number of people studying at universities in the last few decades.
While some people see this as a positive trend which raises the general level of education within the
community, others fear that it is lowering the quality of education. What are the advantages and
disadvantages of the increase in student numbers at university?
Education plays a crucial role in the development of a country and its people. Of late, there is a
sharp rise in the number of youngsters studying at university. While some people argue that it is a
positive trend because it raises the educational standard of the general populace, others opine that
it could dilute the quality of education. In my opinion, when more and more students go to
university, it is definitely a positive development; however, it does have some downsides.
The most significant benefit of this development is that it produces highly educated and skilled
workforce. Graduates and postgraduates learn vital job skills at university and once they graduate,
they are ready to immediately join the workforce. Skilled workers enhance the productivity of the
organisation they work for and earn good remuneration. They also contribute to the development
of the country by paying taxes. In addition, an educated populace is more aware of their rights and
responsibilities and makes valuable contributions to their country.
On the downside, when too many youngsters join universities, the quality of education may suffer.
One of the main causes of this problem is the resource crunch. University education is expensive
and many universities lack the right infrastructure or adequate resources to cater to the needs
of all students that join them. As a result, they will be forced to increase the strength of classes
which in turn will prevent students from getting adequate individual attention. Under-equipped
laboratories and libraries also reduce the quality of education. Unemployment is another issue that
could arise when there is an increase in the number of graduates. If the governments or industries
do not create enough job opportunities then there could be an issue of unemployment and people
may start looking for other options like migration to rich countries for work. Unemployment may
even increase the crime rate in the society.
To conclude, when more students receive university education, it is usually a positive development;
however, the government should closely monitor the functioning of universities and ensure that
they have sufficient resources to cater to the needs of the growing number of students. Otherwise,
the quality of education may suffer.
Vocabulary:
• crucial / vital - ключевой, жизненно необходимый
• general populace - население в целом
• dilute - разбавлять, ослаблять
• enhance - усилить
• remuneration - вознаграждение, зарплата
• contribute - вносить вклад
• right infrastructure - правильная инфраструктура
• adequate resources - адекватные ресурсы
• to cater to the needs of - чтобы удовлетворить потребности
• under-equipped - недостаточно оборудованный
• closely monitor - внимательно следить
• ensure - обеспечивать, гарантировать
• sufficient resources - достаточно ресурсов
EDUCATION
Some people think that a person improves their intellectual skills more when doing group activities.
To what extent do you agree?
In recent decades, many researchers have studied the importance of group-level cognition.
Indeed, to my mind, there is now convincing evidence that group activities improve the
intelligence of individuals. In this essay, I shall examine how research in team-games and
study-groups supports this view.
To begin with, team-games clearly require individuals to perform a diverse range of rapid
mental calculations. This is because, in a sporting context, players must predict and
anticipate possible actions within tight time constraints. For example, a recent Cambridge
study showed that soccer players can – within the span of seconds – calculate over a dozen
different permutations that could result from a single soccer related action. Such predictive
powers clearly improve players’ mental abilities and result from activities performed in a
group context.
Secondly, study-groups enable individuals to obtain information that they could not acquire
in isolation. This is because peer feedback allows individuals to refine their understanding
of concepts and to also learn new information from other members in the study-group. For
example, a study by The British Institute for Learning found that, if individuals participated
in study-groups, they had a far more objective and sophisticated understanding of a topic
than learners who were not part of study-groups. Therefore, it is certainly the case that
learning in a group improves an individual’s mental abilities.
In conclusion, I strongly agree with the notion that group activities improve intellectual
abilities. In the future, we will certainly see schools take greater measures to ensure that
more group-level cognition occurs in the classroom.
Vocabulary:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
group-level cognition
diverse range
mental calculations
predict and anticipate
tight time constraints
within the span of seconds
permutations
peer feedback
refine their understanding of concepts
Task 1: Look at the sentences below and fill in the gaps using the appropriate word from
A. B or C
1. He didn't get a good grade the first time he did his IELTS exam, so decided to
A. resit
B. remake
C. repair
2 People who attend university later in life are often called
A. aged
B. mature
C old
„__ it.
students.
3 Although she had left school and was working, she went to evening classes at the local College of
Education.
A. Upper
B. Further
C. Higher
4. After he left school, he decided to go on to
Edinburgh University.
A. further
B. upper
5 He received a local government
A. fee
B. fare
6
education and applied for a place at
topic specific vocabulary
Education
C higher
to help him pay for his course.
C grant
Education helps us to acquire knowledge and learn new ________
A. skills
B. powers
C abilities
.
7 Although she already had a first degree from university, she decided that she wanted to work towards
a
degree later in life.
A. further
B. senior
C higher
8 We should make the best of every
A. chance
B. opportunity
9
Nowadays,
A. body
to learn.
C availability
education is promoted a lot in schools.
B. health
C. vitality
10. A large number of parents are dissatisfied with the
children into private schools instead.
A. government
B. national
C state
education system, and put their
11. Because so many students find exams stressful, some colleges offer a system of
assessment instead.
A. continual
B. continuous
C ongoing
12. He has read a lot of books and
A. acquired
B. won
a lot of knowledge.
C achieved
Task 2: Complete sentences 1-11 with a suitable word or expression from the box.
primary • numeracy
discipline •
literacy
•
•
graduate •
day release
evening class • course
•
kindergarten • enrol
secondary • skills • pass • correspondence • qualifications • degree
1. When Michael was three, he started going to a
2. At the age of five, he entered
3.
He
and
learned
.
education.
basic
such
as
,
49
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Education
4. After he turned eleven he began to attend
school.
5. Although he was lazy and lacked sufficient .
his exams.
___________
, he was able to
6. When he was eighteen he found a college which offered a
and Design.
7. He was able to
for the course a few days before his nineteenth birthday.
8. He worked hard and three years later was able to
in Art and Design.
9. After that he followed a
using the Internet.
10. The
in Art
_____ with a
course in photography from a college in the USA
he gained impressed an advertising company he wanted to work for.
11. Although he is now working, he has decided to attend an
although he was disappointed that his boss didn't offer him
after work,
.
Task 3: Now read this essay and complete the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2. You may need to change the form of some of the words.
'You are never too old to learn'. Do you agree with this statement?
Education is a long process that not only provides us with basic (1)
such as
(2)
and (3)
, but is also essential in shaping our
future lives. From the moment we enter (4)
as small children, and as we
progress through (5)
and (6)
education, we are
laying the foundations for the life ahead of us. We must (7)
ourselves to work
hard so that we can (8)
exams and gain the (9)
we will need to secure a good job. We must also (10)__
_____ valuable life skills so
that we can fit in and work with those around us. And of course (11)
education helps us to understand how we can stay fit and healthy.
For most people, this process ends when they are in their mid-to-late teens. For others, however, it is the
beginning of a lifetime of learning. After they finish school, many progress to
(12)
education where they will learn more useful skills such as computer
literacy or basic business management. Others will (13)
on a programme of
(14)
education at a university where, with hard work, they will have the
opportunity to (15)
after three or four years with a well-earned
(16)
. After that, they may work for a while before opting to study for a
(17)
degree - an MA, for example, or a PhD, Alternatively, they may choose
to attend an (18)
after work or, if they have a sympathetic employer, obtain
(19)
so that they can study during the week. And if they live a long way from
a college or university, they might follow a (20)__
__
_
. course using mail and the
Internet. In fact, it is largely due to the proliferation of computers that many people, who have not been
near a school for many years, have started to study again and can proudly class themselves as
(21)
students.
We live in a fascinating and constantly changing world, and we must continually learn and acquire new
knowledge if we are to adapt and keep up with changing events. Our schooldays are just the beginning
of this process, and we should make the best of every (22)
to develop
ourselves, whether we are eighteen or eighty. You are, indeed, never too old to learn.
50
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2}
Practice Questions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Are you a full-time or part-time student?
Describe your education.
Why do you think people choose such a subject in your country?
Did you enjoy science lessons at school?
What do you plan to do when you finish studying?
What kind of school did you go as a child?
What was your favorite subject as a child?
Describe your favorite teacher.
Describe a project that you have made in school with your classmates or friends.
Talk about a course that you would like to do if you had enough time.
Did you work with a group or by yourself?
What is the education system like in your country?
Do you think your country has effective education system?
Can you describe yourself as a good student?
Do you study English now?
What are some essential qualities every teacher should have?
What are some pros of studying on a distance learning course?
Does everybody get equal opportunities to study?
Is a good education more important to a boy or a girl? Why?
3. How well do you think schools should prepare young people for working life?
Why do some people fail to study properly?
Do you think it is good to have a timetable for studying? Why?
Why do you think girls are better able to concentrate than boys while studying?
Why do you think some people fail to follow their study plan?
What are some good study techniques?
Which is better, online or classroom teaching? Why do you say that?
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of study groups?
What is the importance of storytelling for children?
Where do you think writers get their inspiration for stories?
What do you think are the achievements that people are usually most proud of? Why do
you think that is?
What are some of the most important decisions that people make in life?
Do you think schools should only provide education related to future careers? Why do
you think that?
Some people say that your school days are the best days of your life. Do you agree?
Do you agree there is too much pressure on young people at school these days?
Have there been significant changes in schooling methods in your country in recent
years?
Do you think schools and universities provide enough careers advice to their students?
Is there anything else you would like to study in the future?
What is the difference between the role of a teacher and a parent in the education of
children?
What suggestions would you give to teachers to improve education?
How can we help children realize their talents?
When a company hires a person, do they consider qualifications or experience?
Vocabulary 3 Nature and Environment
vegetation / plants / flora / greenery / herbage / vegetable life / life form
animal / beast / creature / mammals / fish / brute / cattle / living thing / organism
diversification / variety / mixture / range / variation / variance / contrast / heterogeneity
habitat / environment / homeland / motherland / birthplace / country / natural surroundings
evolution / Darwinism / natural selection
natural resources / organic / organic farming / natural behaviour
biodiversity / biofuels / biodegradable
ecology / ecosystem / eco-friendly / ecological / limit the carbon dioxide emissions
ozone-friendly / ozone layer
breeding / intensive farming / battery farming
conserve endangered species / extinct / rare breeds / animal rights / poaching / (in)
captivity
activists / environmentalists / environmentally friendly / reduce the human impact
recycle / renewable / sustainable energy / solar power / tidal energy / energy efficient
to prevent or at least mitigate climate change / global warming
green belt / greenhouse effect / greenhouse gases / impose “green taxes” on drivers
emissions / pollution / contaminated / genetically modified / acid rain / toxic waste
fumes / emit gas / smoke / vapour / other polluters
deforestation / degradation / desertification
erosion - being eroded by win, water or other natural agents
fossil fuels - a natural fuel such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the
remains of living organisms
rainforest - a luxuriant, dense forest rich in biodiversity, found typically in tropical areas
with consistently heavy rainfall
wildlife - wild animals collectively; the native fauna (and sometimes flora) of a region
many birds migrate, and many of the world’s frogs, lizards and snakes lie low during roller
periods of the year
- mink are well adapt to hunting prey
- The red algae thrives in places where the concentration of oxygen is very less
- represents a major threat to / the consequences will be disastrous / not optimistic that we
would be able to cope / the potential for human suffering would be huge
Government was committed to tackling the issue
invest in renewable energy production
the means to safeguard low-lying areas
Whenever a person drives through dense precipitation such as rain, snow, sleet, or
through fog, they have an understanding of potential danger, especially when the vehicle
is not equipped to face such conditions.
- rise in sea levels
- dispose of harmful waste
- the air quality is poor
-
Vocabulary 13
3.1 Global problems, social tensions, and solutions
charity / volunteer work
culture shock
Global problems:
1. climate change / global warming / destruction of nature / endangered species become
extinct / pollution of air / ozone-layer is getting thinner / ice and glaciers are melting
increasing sea level
Causes: massive use of fossil fuels / deforestation / intensive farming / exploitation of
resources / overconsumption / waste disposal
Solutions: renewable energies (solar, wind, biomass and geothermal) / energy and water
efficiency / responsible consumption and recycling / reduction of CO2 emissions
2. Large scale conflicts / wars
Causes: cultural appropriation - taking one aspect of a culture that is not your own and
using it for your own personal interest / discrimination: terrorism / racism / chauvinism /
nationalism / intolerance / inequality / genocide / extremism / ethnic cleansing (massive
killing of one ethnic or religious group) / prejudice (preconceived idea)
Solutions: respect human, civil rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality
tolerance / education / welfare of nations / speak up
cultural appreciation / cultural exchange program - understand and learn about
another culture in an effort to broaden their perspective and connect with others
cross-culturally
3. People living below the poverty line / hunger ignorance / accumulation of wealth by
privileged (corruption)
Causes: brainwashing / low level of education and literacy / economic situation
Solutions: eradication of corruption / create jobs / raise the minimum wage / increase the
earned Income Tax Credit for childless workers / Support pay equity
UNESCO The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation
UNHCR The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
homeless / exploitation of cheap immigrants labour / stateless / internally displaced people
UNICEF The United Nations Children's Fund
Environment
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 …
Definitions
• air quality: the cleanliness of the air we breathe
• to become extinct: to no longer exist
• to be under threat: to be in danger of becoming extinct
• climate change: the change in worldwide weather patterns
• to die out: see ‘to become extinct’
• endangered species: categories of animals or plants that are in danger of becoming extinct
• energy conservation: the careful management of energy resources to ensure they last as long
as possible
• environmentally friendly: behaviour and products that do not harm the environment
• exhaust fumes: the toxic gases given off by vehicles powered by petrol
• flash floods: floods that happen quickly
• fossil fuels: energy resources like gas and oil that are produced deep below the ground over
millions of years
• future generations: the people who live after us
• to get back to nature: to live a life that is closer to nature
• global warming: the increasing temperature of the world brought about by gases such as
carbon dioxide
• heavy industry: the manufacture of heavy articles and materials in large numbers
• humanitarian aid: the act of showing support to people struggling to survive
• impact on: the effect on
• loss of habitat: the decline in areas of land where animals and plants would normally exist
• man-made disaster: widespread damage or loss of life brought about by the action of
humans
• natural disaster: an event such as an earthquake, flood or hurricane which causes
widespread damage or loss of life
• natural environment: the place where animals and plants would normally be found in nature
• the natural world: the world of nature
• oil spill: waste usually deposited in the seas and oceans after an accident at sea
• poaching: to hunt and kill wild animals illegally
• pollution levels: the amount of toxic waste
• pressure group: a group of people who try to raise awareness of issues and try to affect the
views and actions of people and organisations
• toxic waste: poisonous, unwanted rubbish often produced by industrial processes
• wildlife conservation: to protect animals and plants and their habitats
Weather
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What’s the weather like in your country?
Katie: It’s quite changeable really … we have periods of time with clear blue skies then all of a
sudden we’ll have torrential rain.
Examiner: Which months have the best weather in your country?
Ernst: Well … I suppose it’s a matter of personal taste really … I like it around the end of
October and November … I’m not fond of the heatwaves we often get during the summer … it’s
not freezing coldduring these months and we still get lots of sunny spells.
Examiner: Does it bother you much when it rains?
Junko: It depends … if I get caught in the rain and I get drenched I don’t like it … but I’m a
gardener so a drop of rain is good for my plants.
Part 2-style task
Describe a time when you experienced extreme weather conditions. You should say
• when this was
•
where you were
•
what the weather was like
and say how you felt about the experience.
I was studying English in a language school a few years ago … we were in Cornwall in the UK
… we’d been enjoying lovely sunny days … not a cloud in the sky … when all of a sudden
there was a change in the weather … we were in town walking around the shops when it
started to pour down … I’d never seen such heavy rain before … within about 10 minutes the
roads were full of water … I think they call it a flash flood … it was like being in the middle of
a tropical storm … the water was almost up to my knees … the weather forecast hadn’t
predicted it so everyone was taken by surprise … I’m not sure you could call it ‘extreme’
weather as a few hours later it started to clear up … the sun came out and slowly the water
level went down … but a lot of people’s houses were flooded so it would have been extreme for
them … I found it all quite exciting … in my country we generally have a very mild climate and
don’t often get floods like this so it was quite an experience for me.
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Do you think the weather affects how people feel?
Tierre: Absolutely … yes … I don’t mind the occasional cold spell but I think the winter months
can make you feel down. I hate having to leave the house in the winter … there’s often a thick
fog every morning and we sometimes get bitterly cold winds … the winter certainly makes me
feel a little depressed … though having said that … it’s always nice to see the town covered in
a blanket of snow.
Examiner: Do you think the weather is changing due to global warming?
Ceri: I don’t know if it’s due to global warming or not but the weather in my country is certainly
changing … we’ve been getting quite mild winters lately … the temperatures are
sometimes below freezing but only occasionally … and then during the summer it can
get boiling hot with a lot of older people even suffering from heatstroke.
Examiner: In which ways are weather forecasts useful?
Sinita: Well … if you’re planning a trip or going on holiday it’s important to know whether
you’ll need to dress up warm or take an umbrella … farmers need to know what the long-range
forecast is so they can plan their work … I suppose people who organise outside events need to
know as well in case things get rained off.
Definitions
• to be below freezing: below zero degrees Celsius
• bitterly cold: very cold and unpleasant
• a blanket of snow: a complete covering of snow
• boiling hot: very hot (informal)
• changeable: weather that often changes
• a change in the weather: when weather conditions change
• clear blue skies: a sky without clouds
• to clear up: when clouds or rain disappear
• to come out (the sun): when the sun appears out of a cloudy sky
• a cold spell: a short period of cold weather
• to dress up warm: to wear warm clothes to protect yourself against wintry conditions
• a drop of rain: a little bit of rain
• a flash flood: a sudden and severe flood
• freezing cold: very cold (informal)
• to get caught in the rain: to be outside when it rains unexpectedly
• to get drenched: to get very wet
• heatstroke: a serious condition caused by being too long in hot weather
• a heatwave: a period of very hot weather
• heavy rain: intense rainfall
• long-range forecast: the weather forecast for several days or weeks ahead
• mild climate: a climate without extreme weather conditions
• mild winter: a winter that isn’t particularly cold
• not a cloud in the sky: see ‘clear blue skies’ above
• to pour down: to rain heavily
• to be rained off: to be cancelled or postponed due to poor weather
• sunny spells: short periods of sunny weather
• thick fog: a dense fog that makes visibility very poor
• torrential rain: see ‘heavy rain’ above
• tropical storm: a storm typical of ones that you find in tropical climates
• weather forecast: a TV/radio programme or section in a newspaper/magazine which predicts
weather conditions
GENDER EQUALITY
Women can do everything that men can and they even do it better. They also can do many
things that men cannot. But it is a fact that their work is not appreciated as much as men’s,
although they have to sacrifice a lot for their family and career… It is said: "A woman’s
place is in the home." What do you think?
Women and men have had different roles in the community since the beginning. Under
modern pretexts these differences are slowly converging. However, due to the genetic
inheritance and socio-demographic components, these differences do exist.
Firstly, men are undoubtedly better adapted genetically to perform physical tasks.
Therefore, the assumption that women can match men in everything is clearly flawed. The
difference between their physical abilities is clearly demonstrated in the sporting arena.
Take, for example, the Olympics or any international sporting event. It can be clearly seen
that in these competitions the genders are separated due to inherent differences between the
sexes.
Secondly, it has been argued that women are less appreciated in society due to their
traditional roles in the home. This statement is true to a certain extent because it largely
depends on the society. In certain traditional societies in Africa, females working is frowned
upon and is seen as neglecting the family, whereas in Afghanistan, in general, females are
allowed to do little else but stay at home, being a housewife. Consequently a woman’s value
is largely dictated by the society, culture and history. Nevertheless, to state that her place is
in the home is widely considered sexist in modern western societies.
To conclude, differences do certainly exist; however, these are largely through nature. Also,
the role women may have is usually dictated by other factors, such as, religion or society,
not ability.
BIODIVERSITY
Influence of human beings on the world's ecosystem is leading to the extinction of species and loss
of bio-diversity.
What are the primary causes of loss of bio-diversity?
What solutions can you suggest?
Despite knowing about biodiversity’s importance for a long time, human activity
has been causing massive extinctions of different species. This essay will examine
the main causes of loss of biodiversity and possible solutions of this problem.
The two main causes of species extinction are change of their habitats and
overexploitation of natural resources. When humans artificially transform the
environment, they destroy vegetation and animals’ natural habitat. For instance, to
build new roads people are cutting down the trees and cementing the soil, altering
the environment. Because of that, a lot of species are dying out. Also, when the
activities connected with capturing and harvesting a natural resource are too intense
in a particular area, the resource becomes exhausted. For example, too frequent
fishing doesn’t leave enough time for fish to reproduce and makes them disappear.
In other words, human activities often deplete local flora and fauna and cause loss
of bio-diversity.
Some possible solutions to this problem are protecting natural areas and promoting
awareness among people. By protecting areas where human activity is limited and
avoiding overexploitation of its resources, we can save the untouched environment
and prevent species from dying out. Moreover, the next step in fighting bio-diversity
loss is informing the general population about the dangers of this problem. This way,
people will be more conscious of the environment and won’t overuse or destroy its
resources.
To conclude, people’s activities that change the environment have negative impact on
the world's ecosystem. However, we can significantly lessen the extinction of species
by protecting natural areas and enlightening people as to this problem.
topic specific vocabulary
The environment
Task 1: Match the first part of each sentence in the left-hand column with its second part in
the right hand column. Use the words in bold to help you. Check that each sentence you put
together is grammatically correct.
1. Some modern agricultural methods have
been heavily criticized,...
(A) ...in many countries poaching is considered
more serious than drug smuggling.
2.
B ...and rare breeds parks are very popular
with many.
If you wear a fur coat in public,...
3. It is illegal to kill pandas, tigers...
C ...in wildlife management
4. If we don't do more to protect pandas,...
5. A lot of British people are interested in
unusual animals,...
D ...the government's conservation
programme has been very successful.
6. National parks in Kenya are currently
recruiting experts...
E ...they'll soon be extinct.
F ...with battery farming in particular
receiving a lot of condemnation,
7. In an attempt to preserve forests around
the country...
G ...it was fascinating to observe their
natural behaviour.
8. We would like to carry out more scientific
study into rainforests...
H ...on a successful panda breeding
programme.
9. I don't like zoos because I think...
10. I saw a fascinating documentary about the
way animals live in Venezuela and
thought...
I ...keeping animals in captivity is cruel.
J ...or any other endangered species.
K ...but it is often difficult to get people to
fund the research.
1 1 . In order to increase the birth rate, the
Chinese government has spent a lot of
money...
L ...you risk coming under attack from
animal rights activists.
12. Hunters have killed so many animals that...
Task 2 : Replace the expressions in bold with a word or expression from the box which has the
same meaning.
unleaded petrol
•
genetically modified
erosion
•
fossil fuels
•
greenhouse
contaminated
biodegradable packaging
•
•
•
recycle (things)
•
organic
rain forest • global warming
environmentalists
acid rain
•
•
Green Belt
•
emissions
•
ecosystem
1. In Britain, building is restricted or completely banned in the area of farming land or woods and parks
which surrounds a town.
2.
Many companies are developing boxes, cartons and cans which can easily be decomposed by
organisms such as bacteria, or by sunlight, sea, water, etc.
3. The burning of some fuels creates carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, methane and
other gases which rise into the atmosphere.
4.
Farmers have cleared hectares of thick wooded land in tropical regions where the precipitation is very
high.
60
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
5. Planting trees provides some protection from the gradual wearing away of soil.
6. We should all try to process waste material so that it can be used again.
7.
These potatoes are cultivated naturally, without using any chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
8. This bread is made from wheat which has been altered at a molecular level so as to change certain
characteristics which can be inherited.
9.
More and more cars are built to use fuel which has been made without lead additives.
10. Polluted precipitation which kills trees falls a long distance away from the source of the pollution.
11. Human beings have had a devastating effect on the living things, both large and small, in many parts
of the world.
12. The gases and other substances which come from factories using oil, coal and other fuels which are
the remains of plants and animals can cause serious damage to the environment.
topic specific vocabulary
The environment
13. Don't drink that water! It's been made dirty by something being added to it.
14. Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace and other people concerned with protecting the environment are
holding a forum in London next month.
15. The heating up of the earth's atmosphere by pollution is threatening life as we know it
Task 3: Now look at this essay and complete the gaps with one of the words or expressions
from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to
change the form of some of the words.
'Environmental degradation is a major world problem. What causes this problem, and what
can we do to prevent it?'
There is no doubt that the environment is in trouble. Factories burn 1
which produce 2
, and this kills trees. At the same time,
3
gases rise into the air and contribute to 4
,
which threatens to melt the polar ice cap. Meanwhile farmers clear huge areas of
5
in places such as the Amazon to produce feeding land for cattle
or produce wood for building. Rivers and oceans are so heavily 6
by industrial
waste that it is no longer safe to go swimming. Cars pump out poisonous 7
which we all have to breathe in. 8
. and overfishing are killing off millions
of animals, including whales, elephants and other 9
. In fact, all around us, all
Irving things large and small which comprise our finely balanced 10
are being
systematically destroyed by human greed and thoughtlessness.
There is a lot we can all do, however, to help prevent this. The easiest thing, of course, is to
11
waste material such as paper and glass so that we can use it
again. We should also check that the things we buy from supermarkets are packaged in
12_
. packaging which decomposes easily. At the same time, we should
make a conscious effort to avoid foods which are 13
(at least until
someone proves that they are safe both for us and for the environment). If you are truly
committed to protecting the environment, of course, you should only buy 14
- jit and vegetables, safe in the knowledge that they have been naturally cultivated. Finally, of course,
he should buy a small car that uses 15
which is less harmful to the
environment or, even better, make more use of public transport.
The serious 16
, however, do much more. They are aware of the global issues
involved and will actively involve themselves in 17
by making sure our forests
are kept safe for future generations. They will oppose activities which are harmful to animals, such
as 18
. And they will campaign to keep the 19
around our towns and cities free from new building.
We cannot all be as committed as them, but we can at least do our own little bit at grass roots level.
We, as humans, have inherited the earth, but that doesn't mean we can do whatever we like with it
61
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 1: Complete sentences 1-15 with the correct word or expression from A, B or C. In each
case two of the options are incorrectly spelt.
1. Thousands of buildings were flattened in the San Francisco
A. earthquack
B. earthquake
C earthquaik
of 1906.
2. The
A. hurricane
damaged properties all along the coast.
B. hurriccane
C. huriccane
3. A
A. tornadoe
B. tornado
4. The
A. taifun
;
B. typhone
5. The
new life.
A. volcano
caused immense damage in the regions along the coast
C. typhoon
has been dormant for years, but last month it showed signs of
B. vulcano
6. Several
A. explossions
I.
struck the southern coast with tremendous force.
C tornaddo
The American
north.
A. civil war
C volcanoe
B. explosiones
were heard during the night as the army occupied the city.
C explosions
of 1861-1865 was fought between the south and the
B. sivil war
C dwil war
8. There has been a major
_____
A. acident
B. accident
9.
A. Torrential
topic specific vocabulary
Global problems
. on the motorway.
C. acciddent
_______
rain has brought serious problems.
B. Torential
C Torrantiat
10. The storm caused widespread
_____________________
along the coast.
A. devvastation
B. devastation
C devastation
I1. The
A. floodes
were caused by heavy rain.
C flouds
B. floods
12. Relief workers are bringing food to
A. draught
B. drought
13.
-stricken areas.
C. drouhgt
is widespread in parts of Africa, with millions suffering from
malnutrition.
A. famine
B. fammine
C. faminne
14. The authorities are taking steps to prevent an
A. epidemmic
B. epidemic
15. The
A. plague
B. plaque
of cholera.
C eppidemic
was spread from rats to fleas and then on to humans.
C plaigue
Task 2: Complete sentences 1-10 with an appropriate word or expression from the box. In
some cases, more than one answer is possible. There are five words which do not fit into any
of the sentences.
disaster • survivors • spouted • suffering • ran • erupted • broke out
shook • casualties • spread • refugees • relief • flamed • wobbled • swept
1. The disease
2. The fire
rapidly, killing everybody in its path.
through the slums, destroying everything.
95
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2}
topic specific vocabulary
Global problems
3.
When the volcano
, people panicked and tried to escape.
4. The ground
_ violently when the earthquake began,
5. Fierce fighting
between government soldiers and rebel forces.
6. A funeral was held for the
7.
8.
9.
_
An aid convoy was sent to help
of the fire.
of the hurricane.
from the conflict in Mantagua have been fleeing across the border.
The poor people in the city have experienced terrible
the disaster.
10. International aid agencies are trying to bring
population.
as a result of
___
to
the
starving
Task 3: Now look at this report and fill in the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to change
some of the word forms.
REPORT FROM THE INTERNATIONAL CHARITIES SUPPORT FOUNDATION (ICSF)
The last year has been a particularly busy one for the ICSF. Outlined below are a few of the areas we have
been busy in.
1.
Following 1
- -rain in eastern Mozamlumbi in January, millions were
made homeless as 2
waters rose. The water also became polluted
and there was a cholera 3
.
as people continued to use it for drinking
and cooking. Furthermore, as the harvest had been destroyed and there was not enough food to go
round, 4
became a problem. Charities around the world worked
particularly hard to bring 5
to the area.
2.
Mount Etsuvius, the 6
which had been dormant since 1968,
7
suddenly in April. Thousands had to be evacuated to camps thirty
miles from the disaster area. They still have not been rehoused.
3. The 8
in the Caribbean in July, which saw wind speeds of up to 180
miles per hour, caused immense 9
on many islands. Islands off the
Japanese coast also suffered their worst 10
in almost thirty years,
with prolonged winds in excess of 150 miles per hour. There were many
11
who had to be evacuated to hospitals which were not properly
equipped to deal with the disasters.
4. The 12
in the northern part of Somopia continued into its second
year, with millions of acres of crops destroyed by lack of rain. Meanwhile, the
13
between those loyal to the president and those supporting the
rebel leader continued into its fifth year. 14
from the conflict have
been fleeing across the border, with stories of atrocities committed by both sides.
96
5.
In October, afire 15
.
through Londum, the ancient capital of Perania.
The 16
, which probably started in a bakery, destroyed thousands of
homes. There were several 17
when the fire reached a fireworks
factory, and a number of people were killed.
6.
An outbreak of bubonic 18
was reported in the eastern provinces of
Indocuba in November. It is believed to have been caused by a sudden increase in the number of rats
breeding in the sewers.
A full report will be available in February, and will be presented to the appropriate departments of the
United Nations shortly afterwards.
Peter Collin Publishing, © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 1: Look at the words and expressions in bold in the following sentences and decide if we
generally consider them to have a positive connotation or a negative connotation.
1. At the interview, the manager was impressed by her astute comments.
2. In the power struggle between men and women, neither side will win.
3.
After the takeover, the staff hoped that things would improve, but the new manager was just as
ruthless as the man he replaced.
4. Some men believe that women are the weaker sex and should leave real work to men.
5. Our boss is a male chauvinist and believes that women should get less money than men for the
same job.
6. John doesn't consider women to be very intelligent. To him, they are just sex objects.
topic specific vocabulary
Men and women
7. Our company is male-dominated; all the top management positions are occupied by men.
8. Maureen is a multi-faceted worker. She is able to do a number of different jobs, often at the
same time.
9. He holds egalitarian views and believes that everybody should be treated equally.
10. The new management has taken steps to ensure equality in the office; from now on, everyone will
receive the same money regardless of their sex or age.
11. Militant feminists have thrown paint at a well-known television personality in order to stress their
views.
POSITIVE
NEGATIVE
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
87
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Men and women
Task 2: Use the words and expressions in the box to complete the conversation below.
gender
roles
•
child-rearing
breadwinner • stereotypes •
battle of the sexes
Chris:
Cleaning
and
male
are
a
counterparts
household management •
Sex Discrimination Act
cooking
at 1.
Terry:
•
•
woman's
job.
•
After
role division
social convention
all,
men
are
no
good
.
What rubbish! Thank goodness the 2.
exists to prevent men from taking
advantage of women.
Chris:
Well, let's face it, in the workplace women never do as well as their
Terry:
And I suppose you think that women are only good for changing babies' nappies and other
tedious aspects of 4.
Chris:
3.
.
.
No, but I do believe that in a modern household there should be a clearly-defined
5.
. Men are good at DIY, for example. Most women aren't. And I'll always
believe that it's the man who should be the 6.
, providing food and shelter
for his family.
Terry:
Well, all I can say is that I'm glad your ideas of 7.
are not shared by most
people.
Chris:
Nonsense! A lot of people believe in traditional 8.
; the man goes out to
work, the woman stays at home. It's as simple as that.
Terry:
Men at work and women at home? Come on dear, those are such typical 9.
With people like you around, the 10.
Chris:
Oh, shut up dad.
Terry:
Sorry Christine, but it's an issue I feel strongly about.
will always continue.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
88
Peter Collin Publishing, (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 3: Now read this essay and complete the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2.
'Men and women are, and always will be, different in the way they behave and are treated'.
Do you agree with this statement?
A totally (1)
__
society, in which sexual (2)
between
men and women is the norm, is still a long way off. This is certainly the case if you watch television, where
men are often portrayed as the (3)
, bringing money home to the wife, who
is usually depicted as the (4)
, prone to extreme emotions and temper
tantrums. But is this really the case? Is it still fair to create (5)_
such as this?
topic specific vocabulary
Men and women
After all, as more women go out to work and more men stay at home to look after the house and the
kids, it is quite clear that so-called (6)
are merging and disappearing.
Take the office workplace as an example. For years, businesses and companies were
(7)
- the directors, managers and businessmen were always men, the
secretaries and personal assistants always female. This was probably because men have traditionally been
seen as more (8)
, more able to deal with the cut-and-thrust of business.
But now women are proving that they can be equally tough, while simultaneously being
more (9)
(10)
and caring. In fact, in many ways, women are more
than men, a vital aspect of modern business where you are expected to
do more than just one job. And thanks to the (11)
, women are paid the same
as men. It would appear that, in many cases, the (12)
is a dying breed.
At home, too, there is less evidence of (13)
. It is no longer the
woman who does all the cooking and cleaning and (14)
(15)
is now often shared equally. (16)
. Such
no longer
requires the woman to stay indoors all day while the man stays out until all hours. Whether this is due to
the struggle by the (17)
in the 1960s and 1970s, or whether it is due to a
natural shift in attitudes is unclear.
What is clear, however, is that women no longer feel they need to be regarded as
(18)
(20)
, the underdogs in a (19)
.. In fact, many believe that in the (21)
with their
, it is
women who have come out on top.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
89
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-0&-2)
Practice Questions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
What’s your favourite animal? Why?
Are people in your country fond of animals?
Do you think cities are suitable places for keeping a pet?
Do you think pollution is a big problem nowadays?
What do you do to prevent the environment from pollution?
Are you worried about climate change?
Have you ever participated in any environmental events?
Do you use renewable energy?
Do you recycle? What kinds of things do you recycle?
Do you ever litter?
Is there a big litter problem where you live?
Do you take an interest in nature?
Are you concerned about protecting the environment?
Describe something you do regularly that helps protect the environment
Describe a time you saw a rare or endangered animal
If you could choose one alternative energy source to develop which one would you choose?
Why?
What do you think your country’s environment will be like in the future?
Describe an environmental problem you’ve heard about.
What do you consider to be the most serious environmental issues in the world today?
Do you think it is the responsibility of governments alone to protect the environment?
What measures can individuals take to protect the environment?
In which way do people damage our planet?
Do you think that the environmental situation will improve in the nearest future?
Do you think it is the responsibility of governments alone to protect the environment?
Do you think large companies and business organizations should be more environmentally
friendly? Why? How?
Do you think large companies and business organizations should be more environmentally
friendly? Why? How?
Why do we have to protect endangered animals??
Is it good to keep endangered animals in a zoo?
Is endangered animals’ natural habitat affected by people?
Are there any problems with the climate in your country?
How can we teach children about the importance of protecting the environment?
In your opinion, do you think that human activities are a direct cause of climate change?
Should fresh water be charged at a higher price so that people can appreciate its real value?
Do you like rainy days?
What is your favourite season?
Do you like winters?
Does the weather affect your mood?
Does air pollution affect the weather?
How can the world be peaceful when other countries are not trying to bring peace.
Is war necessary?
How can we end global hunger?
How often do you think about third world countries?
What causes countries to engage in a war?
What are the biggest social problems we face as a humanity?
Are there many discrimination instances in your country?
How do people in your country feel about immigrants?
Are there a lot of homeless people in your country?
What standards of living does your country have?
Can you tell me an example of cultural appropriation?
Vocabulary 4 Food and diet
drink / beverage / refreshment / brew / broth
alcohol / liquor / glass of / a bottle of bubble / sparkling wine / champaign
food / meal / dish / cooking / cuisine / snack / take a bite / edible material / nourishment / groceries
a doggy bag - leftovers of a meal in a restaurant taken home
consumption of food / food intake / eating patterns / dietary habits / ingestion / food daily rations
restaurant / pub / kitchen / bar / cafeteria / canteen / coffee shop / diner / pizzeria / eatery / cafe
home-cooked food / dining out / in a walking distance of / take away / quick snack / ready meal
to follow a recipe / to foot the bill / to grab a bit to eat / to have a sweet tooth / to wine and dine
- I think that cooking is more of a chore than a pleasure
- I adore pasta, pizza and Italian cuisine in general.
- My mouth is watering (super delicious) every time I think about my grandmother’s apple pie.
- After not eating the whole day, he tucked into the burger like a savage
- He must have worked up an appetite in the gym
- I first thought that restaurant was too expensive, but now after I’ve tasted the chef’s signature
dish I understood that their quality justified the bill
- My husband is a fussy eater (picky eater), and it seems impossible to please him.
allergy / allergic to / (lactose) intolerance / chronic pain
eating disorders: anorexia nevrosa / bulimia nevrosa / binge eating disorder
(widespread) diseases, sicknesses, illnesses: food poisoning / intoxication / salmonella / heart
disease / obesity / overweight / underweight / diabetes / botulism / cancer / high blood pressure
contamination / pollution / infection / spoiled / traces of dangerous chemicals
cut down on / reduce consumption of: junk food / fast food / processed food / refined
carbohydrates / genetically modified (GM) / preserved with chemicals / toxic substances
human body / immune system / healthy nutritious organs and tissues
nutrition / (adequate amount of) calories / vitamins, minerals: calcium
nutrients: (simple/complex) carbohydrates, protein and fats
saturated fats (fatty beef, lamb, pork) / monounsaturated fats (nuts, avocado, peanut oil/butter)
nutritious snacks (kale chips, celery sticks, cottage cheese with flax seeds and cinnamon)
free range poultry / fat farm / harvest
balanced diet / healthy foods / organic / fiber foods (whole grain, barley, berry, potatoes with skin)
vegan / veganism / vegetarian / vegetarianism
(regular) daily exercise / workouts / burn fats / physical activity / keep fit / stay in shape
-
accumulation of fat in the arteries
Total cholesterol levels less than 200 milligrams per decilitre are considered desirable for adults
scarcity of food, people are malnourished
Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are
either not enough or are too much such that the diet causes health problems, malabsorption.
Symptoms are problems with physical or mental development, poor energy levels, hair loss,
swollen legs and abdomen.
It can be prevented by improving agricultural practices, reducing poverty, improving sanitation
and empowerment of women.
Vocabulary 4.1
6 Healthcare and Sports
fall ill, get sick
minor diseases: flu, ear infection, sore throat, cough, cold, hay fever
heart attack / stroke and cerebrovascular diseases / coronary artery disease / Alzheimer’s
in poor shape / sedentary lifestyle / unhealthy / to be out of condition
symptoms manifested
skin problems / acne / eczema / sunburn
addiction / narcotics / drugs / give up smoking
proper medical service / health facility / health subsidies / hospital / clinic / doctor’s office /
urgent care / emergency room
diagnose: chronic asthmatic / OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)
examine a patient / medical checkup / free medical care
GP (general practitioner) - family doctor
Paediatrician, neurologist, psychiatrist, rheumatologist / nurse
administer / dispense / apply a remedy or drug
in good shape / keep fit / active / look after yourself / exercise regularly
sports center / health club / sport facilities
take up a sport, an exercise / jogging / brisk walk / swimming / aerobics / to train hard
to set a record / a personal best
coach / trainer - athlete / sportsman
competitive sport / team sports / team spirit / unite
supporter / spectator / hooliganism / violence / banned
umpire / referee: draw - equalise the score / win - beat an opponent / lose
court / stadium / arena / match / bench
alleviate the problem - make (suffering, deficiency) less severe
- it can also help to reduce the inflammation and infection associated with acne
- TB is a contagious disease that spread through the air
- Individuals had to learn the importance of clean hands and basic personal sanitation to
stop the rampant spread of infectious disease
- Is the government capable of preventing a bird flu epidemic?
- Don’t panic if doctors suggest an evaluation for autism or cognitive impairment
- a deterioration in the condition of the patient
- In Africa, private philanthropy is buying vaccines for measles and hepatitis.
- ways to prevent or slow the spread of infections
- these developments are desirable
- the government has to intervene and make the health care affordable for all and provide
free services for poor citizens
- epidemic diseases are often spread among the destitute population and then affect the
whole nation
- it is imperative that we keep ourselves fit and healthy by eating quality foods and leading
an active lifestyle
- Seek sponsorship for the event
Food
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you like to cook?
Mandy: Not really no … most of the time I eat ready meals and take-aways … that’s one of the
reasons I love visiting my mum … you can always guarantee lovely home-cooked food …
Examiner: What time do you usually eat dinner?
Michelle: We have our main meal at around 7.00 … I’m usually starving hungry by then … in
fact I often grab a bite to eat as soon as I get home from college … a sandwich perhaps … but
not too much to spoil my appetite …
Examiner: Are there any types of food you don’t like?
Lionel: No not really … I’m not a fussy eater at all … actually I eat like a horse … I do a lot of
sport and work up quite an appetite …
Part 2-style task
Describe a restaurant that you like to use. You should say
• where this restaurant is
•
what kind of food it serves
•
how often you go there
and say why you like eating there so much.
Howard: OK … this is a nice topic to talk about … there’s a restaurant just around the corner
from where I live … it’s an Italian restaurant so as you’d expect you can eat various pasta dishes
and pizzas and I usually go there with my family for a slap-up meal if we have anything to
celebrate … it’s quite a posh restaurant … the kind of place you would take someone if you
wanted to wine and dine them … we usually order a 3-course meal… a light starter then a main
dish … and I have quite a sweet tooth so I always look forward to the dessert … I usually order
Tiramisu … it makes my mouth water just to think about it … I’m always totally full up by the
end … why do I enjoy it there … well … it’s not cheap … my parents always foot the bill and
we couldn’t afford to go there regularly so it’s always a nice treat …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: How can we encourage people to eat more healthily?
Anna: I think the best approach is to have everything in moderation … processed food won’t kill
you if you only eat it occasionally … but people should also be encouraged to eat a balanced
diet … try to cook fresh ingredients at home a few times a week …
Examiner: Do you think people enjoy their food as much as they should?
Florrie: I don’t know really … I suppose it’s true that people will often eat a quick
snack because they’re bored not because they’re dying of hunger … and often they just bolt it
down and don’t savour it … so yes … perhaps we could take more time over our food …
Examiner: Do you think cooking is a pleasure or a chore for people who have busy lives?
Julie: Well … whether you follow a recipe or make something up as you go along … I think
cooking is a very creative process … and cooking for other people is a particular pleasure …
there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing people you love tucking into something you’ve
cooked yourself …
Definitions
• to be full up: to eat to the point that you can no longer eat any more
• to be starving hungry: an exaggerated way of saying you are very hungry
• to bolt something down: to eat something very quickly
• to be dying of hunger: an exaggerated way of saying you are hungry
• to eat a balanced diet: to eat the correct types and amounts of food
• to eat like a horse: to eat a lot
• to follow a recipe: to cook a meal using instructions
• to foot the bill: to pay the bill
• a fussy eater: somebody who has their own very high standards about what to eat
• to grab a bite to eat: to eat something quickly (when you’re in a rush)
• to have a sweet tooth: to enjoy sugary food
• home-cooked food: food cooked at home from individual ingredients
• the main meal: the most important meal of the day, usually eaten in the evening
• to make your mouth water: to make you feel very hungry for something
• to play with your food: to push food around the plate to avoid eating it
• processed food: commercially prepared food bought for convenience
• a quick snack: to eat a small amount of food between meals
• a ready meal: see ‘processed food’
• a slap up meal: a large meal
• to spoil your appetite: to eat something that will stop you feeling hungry when it’s mealtime.
• a take away: a cooked meal prepared in a restaurant and eaten at home
• to tuck into: to eat something with pleasure
• to wine and dine: to entertain someone by treating them to food and drink
• to work up an appetite: to do physical work that leads to you becoming hungry
Health
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Have you got a relation you’re particularly fond of?
Sinita: Yes … my granddad … he’s 94 years old but generally he’s as fit as a fiddle … we’re
very close and see each other a lot … whenever he goes down with a cold or is under the
weather I make a point of visiting him …
Examiner: Do you do any sport?
Jon: Yes … I’m keen on skateboarding … but I haven’t done it for a while … I had a bad fall
recently and pulled a muscle and had a few cuts and bruises … but I’m on the mend and hope
to be doing it again soon …
Examiner: Is there anything you’re particularly afraid of?
Davide: The dentist … I hate going to the dentist … I only ever go if I have a toothache so it
usually means I have to have a filling or even have a tooth out … I really don’t like it …
Part 2-style task
Describe a time when you were ill. You should say:
• when this was
•
what your symptoms were
•
how long the illness lasted
and say how it affected your life at the time.
Pierre: This is a tricky one really as I’m usually quite healthy … I’ve never been seriously ill …
like everyone else I sometimes get a few aches and pains or catch a cold … I can remember a
few months ago I had to have time off work with a heavy cold … I had the usual symptoms … a
blocked nose … sore throat … it lasted quite a while … about 2 weeks I think though I didn’t
have that much time off work … for a few days I remember feeling poorly but I was over the
worst of it after a few days and went back to work … I always find it’s better to be active when
you feel ill as it keeps your mind off your symptoms … I think my family get a little fed up with
me when I’m ill though … I tend to feel sorry for myself and lie on the sofa all day as if I’m at
death’s door … but as I said earlier … on this occasion it was nothing serious and didn’t really
cause me any problems
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What costs are involved when you are ill in your country?
Anya: Well … people have to pay prescription charges which can be quite expensive … but
fortunately general healthcare is free … unless you want to go private of course and then you
can pay a fortune for your treatment …
Examiner: In your experience are people too quick to take time off work when they’re ill?
Alicia: Yes .. I’ve got friends who have a day off work if they wake up with a runny nose … and
in most cases they seem to make a speedy recovery after they’ve phoned in sick …
Examiner: Do women pay more attention to their health than men?
Julie: I think so yes … women are more likely to see their GP for a check-up if they’re
concerned about something … men tend to avoid facing up to any health problems they have …
my dad always seems to have a very chesty cough but refuses to go to make an appointment to
see the doctor …
Definitions
• aches and pains: minor pains that continue over a period of time
• to be a bit off colour: to feel a little ill
• to be at death’s door: (informal) to be very ill indeed
• to be on the mend: to be recovering after an illness
• to be over the worst: to have got through the most serious or uncomfortable stage of an
illness
• to be under the weather: (informal) to not feel well
• a blocked nose: when the nose has excess fluid due to a cold
• to catch a cold: to get a cold
• a check-up: a physical examination by a doctor
• a chesty cough: a cough caused by congestion around the lungs
• cuts and bruises: minor injuries
• to feel poorly: to feel ill
• as fit as a fiddle: to be very healthy
• to go down with a cold: to become ill
• to go private: to choose to be treated by commercial healthcare rather than by services
offered by the state
• GP: General Practitioner (family doctor)
• to have a filling: to have a tooth repaired
• to have a tooth out: to have a tooth removed
• a heavy cold: a bad cold
• to make an appointment: to arrange a time to see the doctor
• to make a speedy recovery: to recover quickly from an illness
• to phone in sick: to call work to explain you won’t be attending work due to illness
• prescription charges: money the patient pays for medicine authorised by a doctor
• to pull a muscle: to strain a muscle
• a runny nose: a nose that has liquid coming out of it
• a sore throat: inflammation that causes pain when swallowing
Sport
Part 2-style task
Examiner: Do you do any sports?
Loiuse: Not really … no … I always say I’m going to take up exercise and try to get into
shape but I never seem to get started … I sometimes wonder whether I should get a personal
trainer … someone who will sort out a fitness programme for me and make me train hard ….
Examiner: How do you spend a typical weekend?
Stella: I’m a big football fan and weekends always centre around a football match … I support
FC Utrecht and have a season ticket so I go to most of the home games and quite a few of
the away games too … I’m really looking forward to the new football season starting soon …
Examiner: Have you got any hobbies or interests?
Theo: Yes … I’m really keen on sports … I do judo once a week and play tennis in the summer
… I think it’s really important to keep fit… it makes you feel good and energised for work and
your studies ….
Part 2-style task
Describe a place you like going to in your leisure time. You should say:
• what this place is
•
when you go there
•
what you do there
and say why you enjoy it there so much.
Maurice: I’d like to talk about my local sports centre … it’s a place I spend a lot of time in …
it’s a new building with all the latest sports facilities … I probably go there at least twice a week
… sometimes more often … it’s a huge place … there’s an outdoor athletics track and
some football pitches … I play football so I’m often out there … there are several
indoor squash and tennis courts that I use occasionally … a big swimming pool … although I
don’t use that very often … I’m not a very strong swimmer … there’s a gym … lots of things
really … why do I enjoy going there … it’s just a really fun place to be … there’s a good social
side to it all … you can enter competitions … meet up with other people who want to do the
same sports … and because there are so many activities on offer it gets you interested in different
things … for example I was listening to some people talking about training to run the
marathon and I’ve decided I might even think about that … I go jogging a couple of times a
week so it would give me something to aim for … so yes … the sports centre … that’s the place I
really like to visit …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Should people be encouraged more to take up sport?
Alejandro: I think young people should be given the chance to discover which sport they might
like … watching sport is sometimes a good way to get people started … not on TV but actually
getting out … take athletics for example … they could go to an athletics meeting … there are so
many different sports on show one might interest them …
Examiner: Why do some people enjoy participating in sport more than others?
Florrie: That’s a good question … I suppose some people are more concerned about their health
… they can’t stand the thought of being out of condition … other people might be driven to
excel … they want to set records or get personal bests …
Examiner: Which sports do you think are best for people who aren’t used to physical activity?
Julie: Well … I think people like this should avoid strenuous exercise so things like circuit
training are definitely out of the question … maybe just doing a brisk walk every day … or
swimming is always a good way to get started …
Definitions
• an athletics meeting: an event where various athletics sports are held
• an athletics track: a running track
• an away game: a football match played in the opposing teams stadium
• a brisk walk: a fast walk
• to do judo: (not go or play)
• a football fan: someone who likes football
• a fitness programme: a schedule of activities to keep fit
• a football match: a game of football
• a football pitch: the surface on which you play football (as opposed to a stadium, which
is the building)
• a football season: a period in the year when football is played
• to get into shape: to become fit
• to go jogging: to run around the streets
• a home game: a football match played in the teams own stadium
• to keep fit: to stay in good physically condition
• to be out of condition: to not be physically fit
• a personal best: to achieve the best personal result so far in a sport
• a personal trainer: a sports coach that helps you on a one-to-one basis
• to play tennis/football: (not do or go)
• to run the marathon: to run a distance of 42.195 Kilometres
• a season ticket: a ticket that gives you entry to most of a team’s home games during the
sporting year.
• to set a record: to achieve the best result in a sport
• a sports centre: a public building where people can do various sports
• sports facilities: the equipment and services needed to do a sport
• a squash/tennis/badminton court: the surface where you play these sports
• strenuous exercise: exercise that needs a lot of physical effort
• a strong swimmer: a good swimmer
• a swimming pool: the place where you swim
• to take up exercise: to start doing exercise
• to train hard: to train with a lot of effort
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Doctors in many countries say that people do not do enough physical exercise. What are the
causes of this trend? How can the situation be improved?
Despite frequent warnings from medical professionals around the world about the dire
consequences of a lack of physical activity, many people continue to get little to no
exercise. The causes of this can be traced to the way modern society operates, but there
are potential ways to tackle this issue and improve people’s quality of life.
The majority of most people’s lives is spent working or traveling to and from work. Simply
put, this means the majority of people struggle to find time to exercise. Moreover, any free
time they do have, they are too exhausted and rundown by work to find the motivation to
exercise. Related to this is the fact that people have many other choices and distractions in
their downtime. Streaming a movie or scrolling through endless memes is more
appealing than going to the gym or even taking a casual stroll.
Because the problem exists at a social level, it requires changes to society. People need to
have more free time rather than just existing to work and sleep. Reducing the length of the
working week or cutting back on the conventional 9-5 working day are two such
possibilities. At the individual level, people need to have more personal respect for
themselves and accept that exercise is not a choice but an essential part of achieving the
best physical and mental health that they can.
The sedentary society we live in is one of the main causes of escalating rates of mental
health problems and costs billions of dollars ever year in healthcare expenses.
Nevertheless, by emphasizing the importance of exercise and adapting society to meet
human needs rather than vice versa, this looming issue can start to be resolved.
HEALTHCARE
Many childhood diseases can now be prevented through the use of vaccines. Should parents
be made by law to immunize their children against common diseases or should individuals
have the right to choose not to immunize their children?
The general argument is that parents know what is best for their children but this is not
always the case. For example, there are still many parents who choose not to vaccinate their
children. While some people argue that parents should have the option to opt out of child
vaccination programmes, I believe that the government should make it illegal for parents not
to immunise their children.
Of course, not every child is a candidate for vaccines and some exceptions should be made.
Some kids are born physically weaker than other kids. For this reason, their parents should
consult medical experts prior to getting their children immunized to prevent unwanted side
effects. For example, children who are diagnosed with some genetic disorders should not
be given vaccines that can cause more harm than good. Next, isolated tribes that are cut
from the outside world should also be exempt from vaccinations. For instance, the
Amazonians are living in the deep jungle of Brazil and they have no contacts with outsiders;
hence, they are not exposed to many diseases that typically affect children. As a result,
modern vaccines are deemed unnecessary for these people who live in isolation.
On the other hand, since the vast majority of children benefit from vaccination, it is the
duty of the government to ensure that they have access to it. One way of achieving this is to
make it compulsory for parents to immunize their children. This will not only ensure that
children are given the best possible protection against incurable illnesses, but also help to
prevent the spread of some diseases. For example, polio has been successfully eradicated
due to government intervention that made polio vaccination compulsory in the 1950’s. In
many parts of the world, there are still parents who choose not to provide vaccinations to
their children because of superstitions and various socio-religious reasons. Making
vaccinations mandatory is the only way to ensure that all kids have access to lifesaving
shots. The government should also make vaccination certificates mandatory for admission
to schools.
In conclusion, vaccinations help save lives and the only way to ensure that all kids have
access to them is to make it a legal requirement. Of course, children should be exempted
from receiving vaccinations in cases where the downsides of receiving the shots outweigh
the benefits.
topic specific vocabulary
Healthcare
Task 1: Match the sentence in the left-hand column with a sentence in the right-hand column.
Use the words in bold to help you.
PROBLEMS
1 . Mrs Brady has suffered from terrible
rheumatism for years.
2.
More women than men are affected by
arthritis.
(A) Illnesses which affect the circulation of
blood are particularly common with
people who are overweight
(B) This is deposited on the walls of the
arteries and can block them.
3. Air conditioning units are often
responsible for spreading infections
around an office.
(C) They can easily be spread from one person
to another.
4. Cardiovascular disease is becoming more
common in Britain.
(D) Pains or stiffness in the joints or muscles
can be very difficult to live with.
5. Too much exposure to the sun can cause
skin cancer.
6.
It is important not to eat too much food
with a high cholesterol content.
7. Too many people these days live a
sedentary lifestyle.
8.
9.
People in positions of responsibility often
have stress-related illnesses.
Premature babies are vulnerable to
illnesses.
10. The National Health Service is suffering
from cutbacks and underfunding.
11. The AIDS virus is incurable.
(E) They don't get enough exercise.
(F) Their immune-system is not properly
developed and can be easily hurt.
(G) The painful inflammation of a joint may
require surgery.
(H) The government has reduced its
expenditure in this area.
(I) But there are drugs which can slow down
its cell-destroying properties.
(J) Once the body's cells start growing
abnormally, a cure can be difficult to find.
(K) The pressures of a high-powered job can
cause nervous strain which may require
drugs.
Task 2: Replace the words or expressions in bold with a word or expression from the box
which has the same meaning,
CURES
protein • holistic medicine • a diet •
therapeutic
•
traditional medicines
surgeon
•
active
•
consultant
•
minerals • vitamins
•
welfare state
conventional medicine
1. If you suffer from a bad back, a massage may be able to cure or relieve the disorder.
2.
One of the secrets to remaining in good health is to choose food to eat that is high in fibre and low
in fat.
3.
Most people, when they are ill, rely on modern pills and tablets to cure them.
4. Some old-fashioned cures for illnesses, such as herbal tablets and remedies, are becoming
increasingly popular.
62
Peter Collin Publishing. C 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students {1-901659-06-2)
5. Many people are turning to treatments which involve the whole person, including their mental
health, rather than just dealing with the symptoms of the illness.
6. Doctors sometimes refer their patients to a medical specialist attached to a hospital.
7.
It takes many years of training to become a doctor specializing in surgery.
8.
Meat, eggs and nuts are rich sources of a compound which is an essential part of living cells, and
which is essential to keep the human body working properly.
9.
On his holiday, he had to take essential substances which are not synthesized by the body but are
found in food and are needed for growth and health, because the food he ate lacked the B and C
groups.
10. Calcium and zinc are two of the most important substances found in food.
11. Most doctors recommend an energetic lifestyle, with plenty of exercise.
topic specific vocabulary
Healthcare
12. British people enjoy free healthcare thanks to the large amount of money which is spent to make
sure they have adequate health services.
Task 3: Now look at this extract from a magazine article and complete the gaps with one of
the words or expressions from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be
possible. You may need to change the form of some of the words.
A cure for the future in the past?
For over fifty years, the people of Britain have relied on the 1
to make sure they have
adequate health services. But now the National Health Service is sick. Government 2
and 3
are forcing hospitals to close, and waiting lists for treatment are getting longer.
Under such circumstances, it is no surprise that more people are turning to private (but expensive)
healthcare.
For some, however, there are alternatives. They are turning their back on modern pills, tablets and other
4
. It seems paradoxical, but in an age of microchips and high technology,
5
(the old-fashioned cures that our grandparents relied on) is making a comeback.
Consider these case studies:
Maude is 76 and has been suffering from 6
______
for almost ten years. "The inflammation
in my joints was almost unbearable, and my doctor referred me to a 7
at the London
Hospital. I was told that I needed 8
, but would need to wait for at least two years
before I could have the operation. In desperation, I started having massage sessions. To my surprise, these
were very 9
, and while they didn't cure the disorder, they did relieve it to some
extent".
Ron is 46. His high-powered city job was responsible for a series of 10
illnesses, and
the drugs he took did little to relieve the nervous strain. "I read about treatments which involve the
whole person rather than the individual symptoms, but I had always been sceptical about
11
. However, my friend recommended a dietician who advised me that part of my
problem was 12
-related. Basically, the foods I was eating were contributing to my
disorder. She gave me a list of foods that would provide the right 13
and
14
to keep me in good health. At the same time, she recommended a more
15
lifestyle - running, swimming, that kind of thing. I'm a bit of a couch potato, and
the 16
lifestyle I had lived was compounding the problem. Now I feel great!"
So is there still a place in our lives for modern medicine? While it is true that some infections and viruses
may be prevented by resorting to alternative medicine, more serious illnesses such as
17
need more drastic measures. We do need our health service at these times, and we
shouldn't stop investing in its future. But we mustn't forget that for some common illnesses, the cure may
lie in the past.
63
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 1: Find words in the box below which have the same meaning as the dictionary
definitions 1-11. A sample sentence with the word removed has been given to you.
1. Units of measurement of energy in food.
(Example: She's counting
to try and /ose weight)
2. A compound which is an essential part of living cells, one of the elements in food which you need to
keep the human body working properly.
(Example: Eggs are a rich source of
)
3. A chemical substance containing carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.
(Example: Bread, potatoes and rice are good sources of
)
4. A white substance from plants or animals which can be used for cooking.
(Example: Fry the meat and drain off the
5.
topic specific vocabulary
Food and diet
)
Matter in food which cannot be digested and passes out of the body.
(Example: A diet that doesn't contain enough
can cause intestinal problems)
6. A fatty substance found in fats and oils, also produced by the liver and forming an essential part of
all cells.
(Example: If you eat too much
, it can be deposited on the walls of
arteries, causing them to become blocked)
7. Essential substance which is not synthesized by the body but is found in food and is needed for health
and growth.
(Example: He doesn't eat enough fruit and suffers from
C deficiency)
8. Substance which is found in food, but which can also be dug out of the earth.
(Example: What is the
content of spinach?)
9. Too heavy, often as a result of eating too much.
(Example; The doctor says I'm
and must go on a diet)
10. The result of not having enough to eat, or the result of eating too much of the wrong sort of food.
(Example: Many of the children in the refugee camp were
)
11. Receiving food.
(Example: We are developing a scheme to improve
w
E
M
C
Y
S
U
in the poorer areas)
C
A
L
R
T
Y
U
H
F
V
F
H
E
N
R
B
O
H
Y
D
R
A
T
E
5
C
E
A
C
Z
0
W
T
E
R
T
0
H
E
R
V
z
X
C
V
B
N
A
I
P
R
O
T
E
I
N
A
D
F
G
H
M
J
K
L
I
L
N
U
T
R
I
T
I
O
N
M
C
V
E
E
B
N
A
Z
X
C
V
B
N
M
L
K
S
S
J
H
M
I
N
E
R
A
L
B
M
N
T
V
C
I
L
K
G
F
D
Y
E
W
E
N
R
T
J
Y
H
U
B
T
U
I
0
P
F
I
B
R
E
A
E
Q
W
E
D
G
T
X
H
D
0
V
E
R
W
E
I
G
H
T
B
C
E
M
A
L
N
0
U
R
I
S
H
E
D
Y
Q
W
E
G
S
T
C
V
T
W
R
D
W
T
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
73
topic specific vocabulary
Food and diet
Task 2: Match sentences 1-10 with a second sentence A-J. Use the key words in bold to help you.
1. A lot of people are allergic to nuts.
2. Many people do not trust genetically modified foods.
3. Organic vegetables are more expensive but are better for you.
4.
We refuse to eat battery chickens.
5. We prefer to eat free range meats.
6. The harvest has been very bad this year.
7.
Following the floods in Mozambique, there was a terrible scarcity of food.
8. There has been an outbreak of salmonella, listeria and other food poisoning in Perth.
9. Too many people don't eat a balanced diet.
10. Fast food is very popular.
A. This is because they are cultivated naturally, without using any chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
B. There wasn't enough to feed everyone affected by the disaster.
C. They are not sure that altering the composition of cells to change certain characteristics is safe.
D. It's good to know that the animals were given enough space to express their natural behaviour.
E. Terrible weather conditions have prevented the crops from ripening and reduced the yield.
F.
A lot of people are in hospital as a result.
G. Unfortunately, a diet of burgers, pizzas and fried chicken is not very healthy
H. They physically react very badly.
I. This is because they spend their life confined in a small cage.
J.
They don't consume sufficient quantities of the different food groups.
Task 3: Now complete this article with one of the words or expressions from Tasks 1 and 2. In
some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to change some of the
word forms.
Most children enjoy eating 1
, but scientific tests have shown us that burgers and
pizzas can lack essential 2
and 3
, which are essential for health
and growth, while simultaneously containing large amounts of 4
and
5
which can result in obesity and heart problems. Many children end up suffering
from 6
, since they eat too much of the wrong sort of food. In fact, in many areas of
the developed world, a lot of children show similar symptoms to those in poorer developing countries,
where 7
of food causes thousands of deaths from starvation, especially in the wake
of natural disasters which ruin crops and in some cases totally destroy the annual 8
.
Dieticians tell us that we must eat a 9
, as it is essential we consume sufficient
quantities of the different food groups. They tell us that we should all eat more 10
,
which cannot be digested by the body, and fewer foods which are high in 11
, as
this can block the walls of arteries and lead to heart problems. This is good advice, of course, but our
lifestyles often make this difficult. Many of the ready-prepared foods we buy from supermarkets are high
in 12
, giving us more energy than we actually need. 13
foods
are appearing on our supermarket shelves, even though nobody is really sure if altering the composition
of food cells is safe. We have the option, of course, of buying 14
foods, but
naturally-cultivated fruits and vegetables are expensive. And to make matters worse, we are continually
hearing about outbreaks of 15
and 16
which put us off eating
certain foods, as nobody wants to spend time in hospital suffering from 17
.
A few things to watch out for next time you go shopping. If you have the time and the money, that is!
74
Peter Collin Publishing. (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Practice Questions
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Can you cook?
Who does cooking in your family or house?
What is your favorite dish?
What is the most famous dish from your country? Can you describe it?
Do you prefer eating at home or in a restaurant?
On what occasions do you eat special food?
And what is your favourite cuisine?
Describe a place you like to eat at
How can we make people eat healthier food?
Do you think people enjoy what they eat on a regular?
Do you think that cooking is a pleasure a burden for most people?
How do you feel about packaged food? Why do you feel that way?
Are there any foods you can’t eat? Is it difficult to avoid them?
Are people in your country generally knowledgeable about healthy and unhealthy foods, do you
think?
What could be the consequences of people’s changes in diet?
Do you think your government is doing enough to improve people’s diets?
What can be done to make young people eat healthier food, do you think?
How important is retaining a country’s traditional food culture, in your opinion?
Do you believe that people in your country learn enough about healthy eating at school?
Do you think that restrictions on the sale of very unhealthy foods is a good idea?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a fast food restaurant in your local area?
In what ways does packaged food benefit society?
Do you think there is a danger that your country’s traditional cuisine could disappear?
How have people’s attitudes to foreign food changed over the last 50 years in your country?
What are your predictions for people’s diets in the next twenty years?
Do you think that the food available in supermarkets is getting better or worse? (What makes
you say that?)
Do you think that people’s attitude to chemicals in food is changing?
Are modern “health foods” really good for us, do you think?
Tell me about the types of food that people eat in your country.
How are the eating habits now in your country different from eating habits in the past?
How healthy is your country’s food?
Why do you think different cultures have different table manners?
How may eating habits change in coming decades?
How technology has changed the way we prepare our food these days?
Do you have any unhealthy habits?
In what ways do you try to stay healthy?
Is it easy to keep fit where you live?
What do you think is more important, eating healthy or doing exercise?
What are the health benefits of playing a sport?
Have you ever had any habits which you consider to be unhealthy?
Do you think more about your health now than when you were younger?
Describe something you do to keep healthy
Describe a time when you were ill
Do you think people pay enough attention to their health today?
What costs are involved when you are ill in your country?
Do you think most people worry more about their health as they get older?
How can people be encouraged to stay healthy?
what sports are popular among young people in your country?
Is it easy in your hometown to find places to exercise?
Do you think the government should do more to encourage people to exercise?
Do you like sports?
Which sports are most popular in your country?
Vocabulary 5 Government and politics
law / legislation / rule / policy / directive / principle
referendum / committee
the House of Representatives / Congress / legislature / constituent assembly
politician, statesman: president / prime minister / parliament / confrontation / congressman /
congresswoman / technocrat
deficit / shortage / shortfall / deficiency / loss / debt / scarcity
counterparts / equivalent / parallel / analog
negotiation is a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement
Coalition / alliance
Communism / Capitalism / Liberalism / Democracy
independence / democracy / freedom
Monarchy is not inherently bad, and there have been fine kings and queens in history.
federal law originates with the Constitution
Napoleon Bonaparte purportedly used this technique during his military campaigns
The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states of the United States of America
the Republic of Kazakstan is the world’s largest landlocked country
Nur-Otan party, first and foremost, should take matters of national security as a top priority
In a modern state, it is a basic role of the government to protect its citizens irrespective of
their ideology and beliefs.
Deeply attached to his native land, he died in exile in France.
International sanctions during the Ukranian crisis
totalitarian regime / authoritarian government / dictatorship
run for election / to vote / polling day / ballot (box) / turnout
electoral fraud (election manipulation and vote rigging)
transparency / clarity / clearness | the government should increase transparency
Kazakhstan will have to restructure its external debts to China to avoid default
Unfortunately, opposition in Kazakhstan is non-existent
opposition candidate Amirzhan Kosanov occurred to be no more than a puppet
It was no surprise, when Tokaev've won a landslide victory with up to 70% votes for him
Dariga Nazarbayeva is the incumbent Chairwoman of the Senate of Kazakhstan
It seems as if the citizens try to avoid confrontation with the authorities at all costs
to canvass
federal law originates with the Constitution
CRIME and PUNISHMENT
There seems to be an increasing number of serious crimes being committed each year. While
some think that the best way is to use the death penalty as a deterrent, many people believe
that other measures will be needed. Discuss both sides of view.
Over the years there has been a dramatic increase in the number of serious crimes being
committed. While some people are of the opinion that capital punishment is the best way to
tackle this problem, others disagree. In other opinion, other measures are required to reduce
the crime rates. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument in detail.
Capital punishment will certainly deter at least some people from committing heinous
crimes. For example, a study in the US found that the rate of serious crimes in states that
implement capital punishment is considerably lower than the crime rate in states that do not
have capital punishment. This is clearly an indication that people are afraid of getting
executed and that fear helps to reduce the crime rate.
However, capital punishment alone will not reduce the crime rates. If that was the case, then
most countries should be free of serious crimes now because death penalty is still given in
the majority of developed and developing countries. Therefore, the argument that other
measures are also required to reduce crime certainly holds water.
One of the main reasons of increasing crime rates is the easy access to firearms. For
example, many countries have liberal laws that allow almost everyone to own firearms.
Crime rates are certainly high in countries like the United States in spite of the fact that they
have an efficient penal system. If the US restricted the possession of guns, perhaps that
alone would reduce the crime rates in that country. The government also needs to
investigate the factors that compel people to commit crimes. In poor and developing
nations poverty and unemployment are the main causes of increasing crime rates. If the
government creates more jobs, the crime rate will automatically reduce.
In conclusion, there are several reasons behind increasing crime rates. Although some
people insist that death penalty is the best way to tackle the problem, I agree with the
argument that other measures are also required.
topic specific vocabulary
Politics
Task 1: Look at the sentences 1-12 and rearrange the letters in bold to make a word connected
with politics. (The first and last letters of each word are underlined. A dictionary definition is
included to help you.) Then put the words into the grid below. If you do it correctly, you will
find a word in the bold vertical strip which means 'rule of a country by one person'.
1.
We live in a meyoadcrc. (A country governed by freely elected representatives of the people)
2.
Scotland is aiming for ndnpnijedceee in the next few years. (Freedom)
3.
A aidtdenac for the Labour Party called at our house last week. (A person who is standing for election)
4. The military junta abolished the constitution and set up a ioaialrtttan regime. (Having total power and
not allowing any opposition or personal freedom)
5. An huiatoitaarrn government is not necessarily a bad thing. (Controlling people strictly)
6. The Prime Minister has appointed a group of octthraecns to run the government. (People with
particular skills brought in to run a country or an organisation)
7.
The Conservative Party lost the election and is now in gpsionotip. (The party or group which opposes
the government)
8. France is a picybrel, with a president and prime minister. (A system of government which is governed
by elected representatives headed by an elected or nominated president)
9. Governments often impose strict economic ontincsas on countries which abuse their power.
(Restrictions on trade with a country in order to try to influence its political development)
10. The American Congress is formed of the eoHus of Representatives and the Senate. (Part of a
parliament)
11. Her socialist ottdgype led her to join the party. (A theory of life based not on religious belief, but on
political or economic philosophy)
12. HarPatmen has passed a law forbidding the sale of cigarettes to children. (A group of elected
representatives who vote the laws of a country)
58
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2}
Task 2: Look at these sentences and decide if they are TRUE or FALSE. Use a dictionary to help
you.
1. A monarchy is a system of government with an elected king or queen.
2. A politician is a person who works for the king or queen.
3. A statesman or stateswoman is an important religious leader or representative of a country.
4. A cabinet is a committee formed of the most important members of a government.
5. A president is the head of a republic.
5. A ministry is a person who works for the government.
topic specific vocabulary
Politics
7. A constituency is an area of a country which elects a Member of Parliament.
8. A policy is a government which is controlled by the police.
9. A referendum is the process of choosing by voting.
10. An election is a vote where all the people of a country are asked to vote on a single question.
Task 3: Now look at this extract from a current affairs radio programme and complete the gaps
with one of the words or expressions from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer
may be possible. You may need to change the form of some of the words.
Good evening, and welcome to today's edition of Today in Government'
There were angry scenes in both 1
_____
of Parliament today following an
unprecedented walkout by the Prime Minister and other members of his 2
during
a speech by the leader of the 3
. Criticising their 4
on law and
order, the Prime Minister called his opposite number a 'strict 5
who wants to take
away the freedom of the individual and turn the country from a freedom-loving 6
to a 7
run by one man.'
It's almost time for the people of Britain to vote again and it is now only one month until the
8
. All over the country, 9
from all the major parties are
knocking on doors asking people to vote for them. We conducted a recent survey to find out who people
will be voting for. Surprisingly, many support the Workers' Union Party for their policy of changing the
country from a 10
into a 11
of getting rid of the Queen in favour of an elected president.
Members of Parliament have called for a 12
: a lot of people support the idea
so that the people of Britain can
decide whether or not the country joins the 'One Europe' organisation. This follows a survey in the town
of Woolhampstead, the Prime Minister's own 13
.
The Ministry of Education was accused by the press today of employing too many
14
. Chris Smith, editor of the Daily News, defended his attack. 'It's no good having a
department full of computer experts if they are unable to run our schools properly', he said.
Michael Yates, a senior statesman for Britain at the European Commission, has called for EU member
states to impose strict economic 15_
___
on the government of BoSand. This follows
alleged human rights abuses on tribesmen in the north of the country who are demanding
16
. Their leader, Asagai Walumbe, called on countries around the world to help
them in their struggle for freedom.
59
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Crime and the law
Task 1: Match the words and expressions in the box with their correct definition 1-9.
law-abiding
offender
•
•
solicitor
victim
•
•
barrister
defendant
•
judge
*
•
jury
witness
1. A person appointed to make legal decisions in a court of law.
2.
A group of twelve citizens who are sworn to decide whether someone is guilty or innocent on the
basis of evidence given in a court of law.
3. A person who sees something happen or is present when something happens.
4. A person who is accused of doing something illegal.
5. A person who is attacked or who is in an accident.
6.
A qualified lawyer who gives advice to members of the public and acts for them in legal matters.
7. A person who commits an offence against the law.
8. A lawyer who can present a case in court.
9. An expression used to describe someone who obeys the law.
Task 2: The following groups of sentences describe the legal process which follows a crime.
However, with the exception of the first sentence, the sentences in each group are in the
wrong order. Put them into the correct order, using the key words in bold to help you. Some
of these words appear in Task 1.
Part 1
A. One night, Jim Smith committed a serious crime. = Sentence 1
B.
Jim asked the officer for a solicitor to help him.
C At the same time, the police arranged for a barrister to prosecute him.
D. They took him to the police station and formally charged him with the crime.
E. When the trial began and he appeared in court for the first time, he pleaded his innocence.
F.
The next morning the police arrested him.
Part 2
A. His barrister also said he was innocent and asked the court to acquit him. = Sentence 1
B. While he was in prison, he applied for parole.
C. As a result, the judge sentenced him to two years in prison.
D. He was released after 18 months.
E. However, there were several witnesses, and the evidence against him was overwhelming.
F.
Having all the proof they needed, the jury returned a guilty verdict.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
66
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Part 3
A. Unfortunately, prison failed to rehabilitate him and after his release he continued with his misdeeds,
attacking an old woman in the street. = Sentence 1
B.
Jim promised to reform and the pensioner withdrew her call for more severe retribution.
C.
With this in mind, instead of passing a custodial sentence, he fined him a lot of money and ordered
him to do community service.
D. He was re-arrested and returned to court.
E.
F.
His new victim, a pensioner, thought that the judge was being too lenient on Jim and called for the
re-instatement of corporal punishment and capital punishment!
At his second trial the judge agreed that prison was not a deterrent for Jim.
topic specific vocabulary
Crime and the law
Task 3: Now look at this extract from a politician's speech and complete the gaps with one of
the words or expressions from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be
possible. You may need to change the form of some of the words.
Are you worried about crime? I am. We read it every day in the papers. A terrible crime has been
1
, the police have 2
someone, he has appeared in
front of a jury in 3
, he has 4
his innocence but has
been found 5
of his crime and he has been 6
to
ten years in prison. We are all very relieved that the criminal is being punished for his
7
, and 8
citizens like you and me can sleep more
safely at night.
But what happens next? We all hope, don't we, that the prisoner will benefit from society's
9
, that a spell in prison will 10
him and make him
a better person. We all hope that he will 11
and become like us. We all hope
that when he is eventually 12
and let loose on the streets, he will be a good
character, the threat of another spell in jail being a suitable 13
which will stop
him from breaking the law again. Oh yes.
But let's face it. The reality is usually very different. The prisoner may be released on
14
, before the end of his sentence. He will try to re-enter society. But then he
often becomes a 15
himself, unable to find work and rejected by society. It
isn't long before he's back in prison again.
So what alternatives are there, I hear you say. What can we do to the 16
to
make sure he doesn't commit another crime? There are alternatives to prison, of course,
such as 17
in which he will provide a service to those around him. Or he
can pay a large 18
. Alternatively, we could establish a more severe system of
punishment, including 19
and 20
, but we like to
consider ourselves civilized, and the idea of beating or executing someone is repellent to us. Oh yes.
The answer, of course, is far simpler. We need to be tough not on the criminal, but on the cause of the
crime. We should spend less of the taxpayer's money funding the 21
and
22
and all the other people who work for the legal system, and put the
money instead into supporting deprived areas which are the breeding grounds for crime. We in the
ConLab Party believe that everybody needs a good chance in life, and this is a good step forward. Vote
for us now!
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
67
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Social tensions
Task 1: Match each newspaper headline in the box with the first line of its accompanying
story below. Use the words in BOLD to help you.
A. ILLEGAL ALIENS TO BE EXPELLED
B. ETHNIC MINORITIES 'LIVING BELOW POVERTY LEVEL'
C. HOMELESS SQUATTERS EVICTED
D. INSTITUTIONAL RACISM STILL A PROBLEM
E. INTERNALLY DISPLACED IN NEW GENOCIDE HORROR
F. EXTREMISTS ACCUSED OF PROMPTING HOSTILITY
G. UNREST. RIOTS AND ANARCHY CONTINUE
H. REBELS VICTORIOUS IN LATEST POWER STRUGGLE
I.
DISCRIMINATION AND EXPLOITATION A MAJOR PROBLEM IN BRITISH INDUSTRY
J. DISSIDENTS ASK AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FOR POLITICAL ASYLUM
1. Officers from the Thames Valley Police Force swooped on a house in Kidlington earlier this morning
and forcibly removed a family who had been staying there illegally since they lost their home in
August.
2. Almost 50% of factory workers in national companies claim they have received bad treatment or have
been taken advantage of because of their class, religion, race , language, colour or sex, it has been
revealed.
3.
The UN has accused the government of Zarislavia of further atrocities committed in the west of the
country, where hundreds of migrants are reported to have been killed by security forces.
4.
Opponents of the government in Yugaria have asked to stay in Sydney because the political situation
in their own country is making it unsafe for them to return.
5. The police have once again been accused of discriminating against minority groups, despite their
reassurances earlier this year that they had reformed their practices.
6. Neo-Nazi groups in Paris were today condemned for inciting violence against non-whites in the centre
of the city,
7. A shocking survey has revealed that almost 30% of Asian and African racial groups living in London
are suffering financial hardship.
8.
Following further devaluation of the Malovian dollar, violence has once again erupted on the streets
of the capital.
9.
Groups fighting against the government of George Malikes in Livatia have succeeded in capturing and
occupying the parliament building.
10. The Government has ordered the immediate deportation of over 200 immigrants who entered the
country without passports or visas last year.
68
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 2: Match the words and expressions in the first box with a word or expression in the
second box which is either the closest in meaning or which is normally associated with it.
Some of these also appear in Task 1,
ethnic cleansing
•
rebel • picket line
prejudice
•
civil rights
•
• poverty-stricken • refugee
harassment
• outcast
reject (noun) • non-conformist • blackleg • human rights • destitute
discrimination • displaced person • intimidation • racial purging
topic specific vocabulary
Social tensions
Task 3: Now look at this news programme and complete the gaps with one of the words or
expressions from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You
may need to change the form of some of the words.
Good evening. Here is the news.
Neo-Nazis and other 1
have been held responsible for a wave of
2
in the Bratilovan Republic, The United Nations estimates that over 20,000
people have been murdered there in the last six months. 3
who have escaped
from the country have asked the British government to grant them 4
, as they
fear for their safety if they have to return.
The government are to deport 500 5
whose visas have expired. Angry
members of the opposition have accused the government of 6
, as most
of the deportees are of African origin. Meanwhile, the police have been accused of
7
, after Asian families in Bradford complained they had been pestered and
worried by officers following a series of robberies in the city.
8
leaders in the USA have held a demonstration in Washington against the
death penalty. They have called for a total abolition of capital punishment, claiming that it is contrary to
basic 9
principles outlined in the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.
10
fighting the government of President Stanislow have taken control of the
television station in the centre of the capital. This follows a long-standing 11
.
between Mr Stanislow and the principal opposition party which has seriously weakened his power.
A spokesman for the 12
community in London has presented a petition to the
government asking them to provide housing for everyone. He argues that the government's refusal to
raise the minimum wage rate has resulted in thousands living in 13
, with not
enough money to pay for somewhere to live. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police evicted several
14
who took over a house in the city centre last week and refused to leave
until the government took positive action.
A recent survey reveals that at least 30% of public companies have been accused of
15
__
and 16
in the past year. The main offender is
Anglo-Amalgamated Telecommunications, a Bristol-based company. Their employees, many of them
Asian women, claim they have received bad treatment or been taken advantage of by the company.
And finally, the Cardiff police are preparing for angry scenes at the Welsh International Computers factory
tomorrow when 17
, anxious to return to work after six months on strike, will
attempt to break through the picket line. A senior officer has expressed his concern that there will be
18
and people will get hurt as a result.
69
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Practice Questions
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Are police officers popular in your country?
Do people like being a police officer in your country?
What qualities should a police officer have?
Why some people prefer to be a lawyer?
Do you think that people in your country obey the law all the time?
What do you think the most common crime in your country is?
Should police in your country be stricter or less strict?
Is your country a safe country?
Have you ever seen a crime?
Do you think criminals can change?
Is shoplifting common in your country?
What kind of people shoplift and what kinds of things do they steal?
Does your country have a big organized crime group like the mafia?
What is the best way for police to keep neighborhoods safe?
Can you tell if a kid will grow up to be a criminal?
Should the government support artists, such as, -musicians, writers, andpainters? Is it economically beneficial or is it just a waste of money?
Every person is essential to the development of a country. Talk about what you
think is your role in the development of your country.
What do you like most about your government?
Is your government transparent?
Does the government in your country pay enough attention to elderly and
disabled people?
Are you satisfied with the government in your country?
What is better socialism or capitalism?
Is it important to have an opposition? Why?
Do you think voting is important? Why?
What law would you implement if you had a chance?
Would you like to become a president? Why?
Vocabulary 76 Your hometown and Country
• Almaty, a former capital, is located in south-eastern Kazakhstan, at the foot of the
northern of Tien Shan ridge - Zaili Alatau.
• Almaty is fairly traditional and modern because of having several festivals celebrated by
locals, and at the same time it is starting to be developed with increasing number of
sophisticated infrastructures and establishments
• Baibek, as a mayor of Almaty, has performed a decent work with reviving and
rejuvenation a stagnated centre of the city
• pedestrianisation of Panfilov Street occurred to be a tremendous success. It certainly
improved and increased social and cultural interaction in the town.
• Government must continue to subsidise social work and public transport
amenities / facilities / service / industry / production / manufacturing
accommodation / property / living quarters / place to stay / residence / building sites /
construction / apartment blocks / cottages for residents / sleeping quarters
housing projects to build more dormitory areas / quite, peaceful neighbourhood
restaurants / theatre / shopping mall / sports facilities / park / zoo / hospital / library
amtosphere: lively, busy traffic / lifestyle / nightlife
urban sprawl / metropolitan / built-up / downtown / suburban / inner city
rural / countryside / province / suburbs / outskirts / fields / agricultural / crops / harvest
traffic jam / congestion / overcrowding / blockage / depopulation / population explosion
livelihood / cost of living / means of support - a means of securing the necessities of life
The house has been carefully renovated
traffic calming - the deliberate slowing of traffic in residential areas by building speed
bumps or other obstructions
local customs / traffic-free / rush-hour / peak times / park and ride / speed limit
freeway / highway / cycle lane / sidewalk / crosswalk / intersection
accelerate / joyriding / overtake / brake / pull in / pull over / tailgate / drunk driving
• low accessibility of some places due to problems of public transportation systems
• There are plans to demolish old constructions and rebuild them to modern residential
areas (preserve / conserve / protect / maintain old buildings / protected area)
• it has regained confidence in the city’s investment environment
• It has a considerable architectural and historical heritage to build on.
• People who commit burglary, robbery, carjacking, auto theft and other serious predatory
street crimes are disproportionately young, poor, and male. / to breed crime
• noise control or noise mitigation is a set of strategies to reduce noise pollution or to
reduce the impact of that noise, whether outdoors or indoors.
Vocabulary 6.1
10 Travel
The tourism industry has witnessed tremendous growth over the last few years
Tourism has helped in the preservation of many heritage structures and art forms which
would, otherwise, have died without leaving a trace
Travel exposes various cultures, which enhances tourists’ world view. Customs, traditions,
languages and skin colour are all unique to a country and need to be respected.
mass tourism involves plethora of people going to the same resort at the same time period
ecotourism directed towards exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to
support conservation efforts and observe wildlife
the independent traveler - someone who’s vacationing with a self-booked itinerary
vacation / holiday / break / rest / getaway / weekend / day-off / time-off / leave
journey / trip / cruise / voyage / excursion / tour / package tour / safari
being close to nature: camp / tent / campfire / rope / torch / hiking boots / raincoat
sightseeings, tourist attractions: museum / gallery / monument / Ascension Cathedral
tour operator / travel agent arranges travel for end clients on behalf of suppliers (hotel etc.)
airfare, travel insurance, national insurance and personal living costs
Tourist hotspots are also plagued by problems like theft, maimed begging and drug abuse
baggage claim / luggage / baggage / suitcase / backpack / travel bag
gate / passport control / boarding pass / captain / steward
business class / first class / economy class / coach class
I felt dreadful after a long-haul / short-haul flight
domestic travel should initially take precedence over international travel
local travel can also be of vital economic significance
passengers began to disembark
it takes time to acclimatise to increasingly warm weather
He poke eloquently of the difficulties and culture shock he experienced upon his arrival
all-inclusive hotel that caters every taste
check in (to a hotel or for a flight) / check out (of a hotel)
consulate / embassy
emigration / foreign country / move overseas / move abroad / relocate / resettle / expatriate
visa / green card / work permit / residence permit
family-based / employment-based / humanitarian immigration / economic migrant
alien / ET (extra terrestrial) / UFO (unidentified flying object)
internally displaced person is someone who is forced to flee their home but who remains
within country’s borders
deport - expel from a country on the grounds of illegal status
Nabokov was persona non grata with the regime
The United Nations hopes to repatriate all the refugees
no group trafficked in more illicit liquor than the bootleggers
Town and City
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What is it like where you live?
Christiane: I live in a residential area of a busy town in the south of Spain … we have all the
facilities you need … good public transport … a good shopping centre … it’s nice …
Examiner: Do you like living in the city?
Andrea: Yes I do … I like going out with my friends and there are lots of lively bars and
restaurants within walking distance of my apartment … I’m a bit of a culture vulture as well so
it’s great to have access to art exhibitions and that kind of thing …
Examiner: Do you get many tourists visiting your area?
Mandy: Not really no … I live in the inner-city and the area is a little run down … it’s basically
a lot of high-rise flats and many of the shops are boarded up … so nothing to interest tourists
really …
Part 2-style task
Describe an interesting town or city in your country that visitors might enjoy. You should say
• what the place is called
•
where the place is
•
what the facilities are like
and say why visitors might enjoy going there.
Monique: Anyone who comes to my country really should spend some time in Barcelona … it’s
a beautiful place … it’s not what you would call a sprawling city … it’s quite compact really
and you could walk across the city in a couple of hours … but there’s no need to do that as we
have a fantastic public transport system so it’s easy to get around … there are various districts
all with their own character … you have the upmarket shops in the centre … you’ll find lots
of chain stores you’ll recognise from your own country but also local brands as well … we have
the narrow streets in the Gothic district with lots of fashionable boutiques and tourist
attractions … there’s the Olympic area and the beaches along the coast … and dotted around the
city are some lovely public spaces … parks and squares in the city centre and on the
outskirts of Barcelona where people relax with their friends and family … and of
course pavement cafes everywhere … all that and some great historical places of interest … so
a great destination for tourists …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What are the advantages of living in a city or big town?
Carrie: I think it’s having access to local facilities really … local shops as well as access to
larger shopping malls in the city centre … and if you’re well-off you can afford to live in the
suburbs away from the busy traffic …
Examiner: In your experience are city centres usually attractive places?
Mary: Some can be yes … especially those with a historical interest … but sometimes they’re
full of ugly office blocks … multi-story car parks … and residents living in poor housing … it
depends on the city doesn’t it?
Examiner: What are some of the challenges facing towns and cities?
Penny: I suppose traffic congestion is a major problem … and the growth in out-of-town
supermarkets and retail parks mean lots of town centre shops are closing down … plus a
shortage of good quality housing … I think these are the major challenges …
Definitions
• boarded up shops: shops that are no longer doing business
• chain stores: well-known brands with shops in multiple cities
• to close down: to stop doing business
• fashionable boutiques: fashionable clothes shops
• to get around: to travel around
• high-rise flats: multi-story apartments
• inner-city: the central part of a city where people live and where conditions are often poor
• in the suburbs: the outer area of large towns and cities where people live
• lively bars/restaurants: bars or restaurants with a good atmosphere
• local facilities: local buildings or services serving the public
• multi-story car parks: car parks on several floors
• office block: a large building that contains offices
• out of town shopping centre/retail park: large shopping centres outside of the town or city
• pavement cafe: cafes with tables outside on the pavement
• places of interest: buildings that have a particular interest for visitors
• poor housing: housing that is not in good condition
• public spaces: areas in a town or city that are open to the public
• public transport system: public vehicles such as buses and trains that operate at regular
times on fixed routes
• residential area: an area where people live
• run down: old and of a poor standard
• shopping centre: an area consisting of multiple shops
• shopping malls: large indoor shopping centres
• sprawling city: a city that has grown over time and which covers a wide area
• tourist attraction: a place of interest to tourists
• traffic congestion: heavy traffic making it difficult to move around a town or city
• upmarket shops: expensive fashionable shops
Languages
bilingual / monolingual / multilingual / international / global / world language
second language / accent / pronunciation / learn English parrot-fashion
native language / fluent / mother tongue / extinction of national language / dying out
prevalence of one language / Lingua franca of the world is obviously English
dialects: Cockney / Yorkshire / Scottish / Northern Irish / Posh
dictionary / vocabulary / grammar / lexical resource / grammatical accuracy / literacy
linguistic programs
Accommodation
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you live in a house or an apartment?
Callum: Actually I live on campus … in a single room in halls of residence … all first year
students are encouraged to do that as they’re close to the university … next year I plan to move
into student digs in town …
Examiner: Tell me about where you live.
Julia: I live with my parents in the suburbs of Madrid … we only moved in recently … in fact
we had a house-warming party just a few weeks ago …
Examiner: What kind of accommodation do most people live in in your city?
Maria: In the city itself the majority of people live in apartment blocks … that’s what surprised
me about England … most people seem to live in terraced houses with lovely back gardens …
Part 2-style task
Describe a house or an apartment you would like to live in. You should say
• what kind of accommodation it would be
•
where it would be
•
who would live there with you
and say why you would enjoy living in this place.
Paolo: I think most people when answering this question would say they’d like to live in a
big detached house with spacious rooms… views of the countryside and so on … but actually
my ideal home would be a lot different … I’ve always loved the idea of having a mobile
home … a really expensive one with all the mod cons … so I could live wherever I wanted or at
least have lots of holidays and be able to take all my home comforts with me whenever I
travelled … I realise this would have to be a second home as I’d need a base … a permanent
address … but the mobile home would be the accommodation I’d find it exciting to live in … I
suppose once I settle down and have children I’ll want to get on the property ladder … I’ll be
like everyone else … saving up to put down a deposit on a house or an apartment … I don’t
think my family would want to live in a mobile home … but I like to think I’ll still keep
that dream home in mind …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Is it better to own your own home or to rent?
Ana: I think both have their advantages … living in rented accommodation isn’t necessarily a
bad thing … you don’t have a huge debt like you do when you take out a mortgage but I
suppose the property market offers you an investment for the future … I’m sure that’s why
most people prefer to own their own home …
Examiner: What options are available to young couples looking for accommodation in your
country?
Toni: If they want to buy their own home it isn’t easy for first-time buyers … mortgages are
hard to get so most people live with their parents or in rented accommodation … but that can
also be very expensive … you often have to pay rent in advance … and if the accommodation
isn’t fully furnished you have the expense of buying furniture …
Examiner: What are some of the pleasures involved in making a home for ourselves?
Suki: I suppose it starts with house-hunting … finding your ideal home … some people
enjoy doing up an old property … giving a property that’s old and tired a new lease of life …
others like making wherever they live feel like home with some home comforts …
Definitions
• (all the) mod cons: technology at home that makes jobs easier such as a washing machine,
dishwasher etc.
• apartment block: a large building made up of smaller units of apartments
• back garden: a garden at the rear of the house
• detached house: a house that is not physically connected to another property
• to do up a property: to repair an old building
• dream home: a home you regard as perfect
• first-time buyer: someone buying a property for the first time, especially when taking out a
loan (mortgage)
• fully-furnished: a rented property with all furniture included
• to get on the property ladder: to buy a property with the aim of buying another bigger or
more expensive one later in life
• hall of residence: a college or university building where students live
• home comforts: things that make a home feel comfortable to live in
• house-hunting: looking for a property to live in
• house-warming party: a party to celebrate moving into a new home
• ideal home: a perfect home
• to live on campus: to live on the university or college grounds
• mobile home: a home that can be moved by a vehicle or one that has its own engine
• to move into: to begin to live in a property
• to own your own home: to have bought the property you live in
• to pay rent in advance: weekly or monthly rent paid at the beginning of the week or month
• permanent address: a fixed address
• property market: the buying and selling of land or buildings
• to put down a deposit: to pay an amount of money as the first in a series of future payments
• rented accommodation: property owned by someone else and for which a person pays a
fixed amount to live in
• single room: a room for one person
• spacious room: a large room
• student digs: student accommodation
• the suburbs: a residential area on the edge of towns or cities
• to take out a mortgage: to borrow a large amount of money, paid back over several years, in
order to buy a house
• terraced house: a house connected on both sides by other properties
Holidays
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What kind of holiday do you like?
Miguel: I try to avoid tourist traps … I like to get away from it all and prefer going
somewhere off the beaten track … last year I had the holiday of a lifetime … a two
week wildlife safari in Kenya.
Examiner: What do you like to do when you’re on holiday?
Anna: I enjoy visiting the local places of interest … I like to go sightseeing and always sign up
for guided tours as it’s a chance to be shown around and take photographs … one of my
hobbies.
Examiner: Do you have many tourists in your country?
Amy: Yes … we have a lot of holiday resorts along the coast that are popular with tourists …
most people come on package holidays and stay in one of the many hotels and selfcatering apartments.
Part 2-style task
Describe a beautiful place you once visited. You should say:
• when you went to this place
•
where it was
•
who you went with
and say why you liked it so much.
Sally: A few years ago I went on a long weekend to the Lake District in the UK … it’s a very
popular holiday destination in the north of England … I went on my own and had a wonderful
time … I stayed in a youth hostel and met some really nice people … but the most memorable
thing about the holiday were the breathtaking views … and lovely picturesque villages … it
can get very busy with hordes of tourists so I decided to go out of season in the autumn … the
weather was fantastic and the shops were full of local crafts … a really great holiday … it’s
certainly not the kind of short break for someone looking for a busy nightlife but if you want to
relax in the middle of stunning landscape I would certainly recommend a holiday to the Lake
District.
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What do you think has led to the growth in the tourism industry?
Miguel: It’s much easier and affordable to travel now … nowadays you can get cheap charterflights or all-in packages … to somewhere near or to a far-off destination.
Examiner: How do people tend to choose a destination?
Anna: The Internet is a great source of information and high street travel agents are still very
popular … that’s where I like to go to get holiday brochures for the place I’m interested in.
Examiner: People sometimes say flying is the most glamorous form of travel. Do you agree?
Amy: I’m not so sure really … flying can be quite boring … queuing up at the check-in desk …
going through passport control … sitting for ages in the departure lounge … then the flight
itself can be quite uncomfortable … no … I’m not sure I agree.
Definitions
• all-in package/package holiday: a holiday where you purchase the travel and
accommodation together
• breathtaking view: an extremely beautiful view
• charter-flight: a cheaper form of flying than a scheduled flight
• check-in desk: the place at the airport where you register for your flight and deposit your
luggage
• departure lounge: where you wait for your flight to be called
• far-off destination: somewhere a long way away
• to get away from it all: to take a holiday to escape a busy or stressful lifestyle
• guided tour: an organised group shown around a place of interest by an expert
• holiday brochure: a glossy publication with details of holiday packages
• holiday destination: where you go for a holiday
• holiday of a lifetime: a special holiday that you are unlikely to repeat
• holiday resort: a place where lots of people go for a holiday
• hordes of tourists: crowds of tourists
• local crafts: objects produced locally
• long weekend: an extended weekend holiday including Friday or Monday
• out of season: outside of the main holiday period
• picturesque village: very pretty village
• passport control: the place where your passport is checked
• places of interest: sites of interest to tourists
• wildlife safari: a holiday, often in Africa, to observe wild animals
• self-catering: a holiday where you supply your own food
• short break: a short holiday
• to go sightseeing: to look around the tourist sites
• stunning landscape: extremely beautiful countryside
• travel agent: a shop that specialises in booking holidays
• tourist trap: somewhere where too many tourists go
• youth hostel: a cheap form of accommodation
LANGUAGES
People are using a lot of online language translation apps. Do the advantages of this
outweigh the disadvantages?
The importance and popularity of web-based language translation applications has grown
over the past few years due to globalisation. People from vastly different geographical
zones, educational backgrounds and cultural beliefs are more inclined to use such mobile
applications to learn and understand a foreign language. I strongly agree that its positives of
this development outweigh the negatives, and, in this essay, I will discuss this using
examples of current apps and The Times newspaper.
On the one hand, there is ample evidence that constant access to mobile phones has been
immeasurably beneficial to both our social life and business careers. Nowadays, citizens are
migrating to different countries in order to build a new future and dealing with overseas
companies for business purposes, so learning a second language has become their necessity.
Such mobile applications are facilitating them by providing a handy solution to their
language barriers. For example, Play store and Apple app store advertise multiple paid and
free to use apps such as Duolingo, Dictionary, Grammarly and Ginger which instantly
translate one language into another allowing crucial communication, be it social or
commercial to happen seamlessly. Therefore, it is apparent that many key aspects of
people’s lives are is being made easy through these handy and ready to use solutions.
On the other hand, whether language conversion apps benefit the public or cause potential
losses to a key section of the education establishment is also a controversial topic for
discussion. A recent study published in The Times newspaper has shown that there has been
a significant reduction in demand for bilingual teachers or native language tutors as more
people have started using such apps instead of spending money on the specialist tuition
required to learn a new tongue. For an instance, free apps simply require basic registration
details and email verification to register then begin, compared to the many hours or even
years needed to master an additional language to a proficient level of fluency. As a result,
despite the indisputable benefits of learning face to face, talented and experienced
professors, translators and interpreters are having to fight to justify their relevance in this
new world.
To conclude, I believe that if the situation favours the relatively accurate, easily accessible
use of online translation applications, which offer instant and quick solutions they can be
hugely beneficial for the community at large and in the future their flexibility and
sophistication will continue to be improved.
GOVERNMENT SPENDINGs and TRANSPORT
In a number of countries, some people thinks it’s necessary to spend large sums of money on
constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities. Others believe the money
should be spent on improving existing public transport. Discuss both these views and give
your opinion.
High-speed inter-city trains are now a common sight in Europe, China, and Japan. Due to
the success of these rail networks, a rising number of people believe that constructing new
railway lines of this type is a necessity. Conversely, there is a sizeable group who hold the
view that the money would be better invested in upgrading existing public transport
infrastructure.
Those in favour of connecting cities via high-speed trains believe that a modern society
needs an advanced transport system that is also affordable. In other words, these transport
systems allow people to travel quickly and cheaply, which is desirable in terms of economic
growth and social connection. To be precise, by reducing the cost and travel time, people
will be more able to conduct business and visit relatives than they have in the past when
they needed to be able to afford a plane ticket or endure a long and uncomfortable journey
by bus or slow train.
Nevertheless, opponents argue that already-existing public transport should be improved
before embarking on a high-speed rail project. This is mainly due to the fact that day-today public transport is a more immediate problem. Old buses pollute the city air with
thick acrid smoke, while their degraded condition makes people unwilling to ride them,
and this only exacerbates the problem of traffic congestion and air pollution in major
cities. Therefore, this issue should be fixed before any large-scale nationwide project is
undertaken.
Overall, while having cities connected by a modern high-speed rail network is a positive
thing that brings many benefits, improving public transportation as it exists today should be
the priority as this will have a more immediate and measurable benefit for people’s lives.
topic specific vocabulary
Travel
Task 1: Look at the following sentences and decide if they are true or false. If they are false,
explain why.
1.
A travel agency is the same as a tour operator.
2.
A package tour is a holiday in which the price includes flights, transfers to and from the airport and
accommodation.
3. An all-inclusive holiday is a holiday in which the price includes flights, transfers, accommodation, food
and drink.
4. When passengers embark, they get off an aeroplane or ship.
5. When passengers disembark, they get on an aeroplane or ship.
6. The first thing you do when you go to an airport is go to the check-in.
7. The first thing you do when you arrive at your hotel is check in.
8.
The opposite of a package tourist is an independent traveller.
9. Mass tourism can have a negative effect on the environment.
10. Eco-tourism is tourism which has a negative effect on the environment
11. The words trip, excursion, journey and voyage all have the same meaning.
12. It is always necessary to have a visa when you visit a different country.
13. A flight from London to Paris could be described as a long-haul flight.
14. Flying economy class is more expensive than flying business class.
15. A Canadian citizen flying to Japan will have to fill in an immigration card before he arrives.
Task 2: Complete sentences 1-11 with a suitable word or expression from the box.
deported
•
repatriated
•
economic migrants
1.
expatriates
immigration
•
•
•
internally
UNHCR
culture shock
At the beginning of the war, thousands of
country.
•
•
displaced
persona non grata
emigration
•
refugees
fled over the border to the next
2. Since the civil war began, almost a million people have been forced to move to another part of the
country. These
persons are now without food or shelter.
3.
Nineteenth-century governments encouraged
4. The government is encouraging
industries.
5.
to the colonies.
because of the shortage of workers in key
Going from California to live with hill tribes in India was something of a
6. Thousands of British
jobs.
7. The
the world.
.
live in Singapore, where many of them have high-powered
is under a lot of pressure owing to the huge number of displaced persons around
8. He was
from the country when his visa expired.
9. Because he had a criminal record, the government didn't want him to enter the country, declared him
and asked him to leave immediately.
10. After the economy collapsed in the east, thousands of
of finding a good job.
11. He didn't want to be
headed west in the hope
, but nevertheless was put on a plane back home.
64
Peter Collin Publishing, (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 3: Now look at this essay and complete the gaps with one of the words or expressions
from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to
change the form of some of the words.
Travel: the other side of the coin
Most of us have, at some point in our lives, experienced the joys of travel. We go to the
1
to
pick
up
our
brochures.
We
book
a
two-week
2
with flights and accommodation included (or if we are
3
, we make our own way to the country and travel around from place to
place with a rucksack on our back). We make sure we have all the right currency, our passport and any
4
that are necessary to get us into the country. We go to the airport and
5
. We strap ourselves into our tiny 6
aircraft seats
and a few hours later we 7
from the aircraft, strange new sights, smells and
sounds greeting us. Nowadays, it seems, the whole world goes on holiday at once: the age of
8
is in full swing!
topic specific vocabulary
Travel
But for the great majority of people around the world, travel for them is done in the face of great
adversity and hardship. They never get to indulge in an 9.
holiday in a luxury
hotel with all meals and drinks included. They never get to explore the lush Amazon rain forest or the
frozen wastes of the Arctic on an 10
holiday. For them, travel is a matter of
life and death, I refer, of course, to all the 11
escaping from their own
countries, or the 12
, moved from one part of their country to another by an
uncaring government, or 13
forced to find a job and seek a living wherever
they can.
Can you imagine anything worse than the misery these people must face? Let's not confuse
them with those 14
, who choose to live in another country and often have
nice houses and high salaries. These people are simply desperate to survive. As well as losing their homes
because of war or famine or other natural disasters, they must come to terms with their new environment:
for many, the 15
can be too great. And while many countries with an open
policy on 16
will welcome them in with open arms, others will simply turn
them away. These people become 17
, unwanted and unwelcome. Even if
they manage to get into a country, they will often be 18_
or repatriated. Their
future is uncertain.
Something to think about, perhaps, the next time you are 19
star hotel by a palm-fringed beach or sitting in a coach on an 20
castle in the countryside.
to your fiveto a pretty
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
65
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06- 2)
Task 1: Choose the most suitable explanation, A or B, for the following sentences. Use the
words in bold to help you.
1. People enjoy the mobility that owning a car gives them.
A. People enjoy being able to travel easily from one place to another.
B. People enjoy being able to drive very fast.
2. What's your destination?
A. Where have you come from?
B. Where are you going to?
3. Congestion in the city centre has increased dramatically.
A. It is now easier to drive around the city centre than it was before.
B. It is now more difficult to drive around the city centre than it was before.
4.
topic specific vocabulary
On the road
The local council wants to reduce the risks to pedestrians.
A. The local council wants to make it safer for people to walk along the street.
B. The local council wants to make it safer for drivers and their passengers.
5. Lead-free petrol reduces the risk of pollution.
A. Lead-free petrol does not make the environment as dirty as conventional petrol.
B. Cars fuelled by lead-free pollution are safer to drive.
6.
Traffic-calming measures are becoming increasingly common throughout the country.
A. People have to drive more slowly because of the increased number of police in villages and
towns.
B. People have to drive more carefully through towns and villages because of specially-built
obstacles in the road.
7. The centre of Camford has been designated a traffic-free zone.
A. You cannot take your car into the centre of Camford.
B. You can park your car for free in the centre of Camford.
8.
Container lorries and other large vehicles dominate our roads.
A. There are a lot of large vehicles on the roads.
B. There aren't many large vehicles on the roads.
9.
Young drivers have a higher accident risk than older drivers.
A. Young drivers are more likely than older drivers to be involved in a crash.
B. Young drivers are less likely than older drivers to be involved in a crash.
10. Public transport is heavily subsidised in most areas.
A. The government has made public transport cheaper to use by giving money to bus and train
companies.
B. The government has made public transport more expensive to use by increasing the price of
road tax.
11. The junction of London Road and Holly Street is an accident black spot
A. A lot of traffic accidents happen here.
B. Not many accidents happen here.
12. The city council needs to adopt an effective transport strategy within the next five years.
A. The city council needs to find a better way for people to get into, around and out of the city.
B. The city council needs to encourage more drivers to bring their cars into the city.
77
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
On the road
Task 2: Look at sentences 1-10 and decide what has, or hasn't, happened (sentences A-J). Use
the words in bold to help you.
1. Ambulance driver to policeman: 'The pedestrian's injuries are very severe and he has to go to
hospital.'
2. Judge to driver: 'Drink-driving is a serious offence and I therefore ban you from driving for a year'.
3. Driving instructor to student driver: 'Stop! That's a pedestrian crossing!'
4. Driving test examiner to student driver: 'I'm afraid you've failed your test because you don't know the
Highway Code'.
5. Policeman to driver: 'Do you realise you were speeding back there, sir?'
6. Driver to a friend: 'I can't believe it! He gave me a heavy fine and six points on my licence.'
7. Police officer to radio interviewer: 'Joyriding has increased by almost 50% and I am urging everyone
to think twice before they get involved in this stupid activity.'
8. Television news presenter: 'So far this year there have been 27 fatalities on Oxfordshire's roads.'
9. City council officer to journalist: 'As part of our new transport strategy, we are going to construct cycle
lanes in and around the city.'
10. City council officer to journalist:'The "Park and Ride" scheme has been very successful over the last year'.
A. Somebody is unfamiliar with the government publication containing the rules for people travelling
on roads.
B. More people have been leaving their cars in designated areas outside a city and catching a bus into
the city centre.
C. A lot of cars have been stolen, mainly by young people who want some excitement.
D. A person walking in the street has been hit and badly hurt by a vehicle.
E. Somebody has decided to make it safer to use bicycles.
F. Somebody has almost driven through a red light and hit a person walking across the road.
G. Somebody has had to pay money because of a driving offence.
H. Somebody has consumed an illegal amount of alcohol before driving their car.
I. A lot of people have been killed in traffic-related accidents.
J. Somebody has been driving too fast.
Task 3: Now read this article and fill in the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to change
some of the word forms.
1
and 2
on Britain's roads are increasing from year
to year: last year, 2,827 people were killed and almost 300,000 hurt in traffic-related accidents. Most of
these were caused by drivers 3
in built-up areas, where many seem to disregard
the 30mph limit, or 4
, especially around Christmas, when more alcohol is
consumed than at any other time. In many cases, it is 5
who are the victims,
knocked down as they are walking across the street at 6_
by drivers who seem
to have forgotten that the rules of the 7
order you to stop at red lights.
But these innocent victims, together with the help of the police and local councils, are fighting back. In
Oxford, a city plagued by 8
and 9
caused by
traffic, and a notorious accident 10
for pedestrians and cyclists, the city
council has recently implemented its new 11
, which has improved the flow of
traffic to the benefit of those on foot or on two wheels. 12
measures such as
bollards and speed humps have slowed traffic down. 13
schemes have helped
reduce the number of cars in the city, as office workers and shoppers leave their cars outside the city and
bus in instead. Cornmarket Street, the main shopping thoroughfare, has been designated a
14
, closed to all vehicles during the day. There are more
15
on main routes into the city, making it safer for the huge number of
students and residents who rely on bicycles to get around. And 16
public
transport has helped to keep down the cost of using buses. Meanwhile, the police and the courts are
coming down hard on drivers who misuse the roads, handing down large 17
__
on selfish, inconsiderate drivers who believe it is their right to 18
the roads.
78
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Town and country
Task 1: Match the sentences in the left hand column with the most appropriate sentence in the
right-hand column. Use the words in bold to help you.
1 . London is a truly cosmopolitan city.
2. A modern metropolis needs
integrated transport system.
3.
a
A. Drug abuse is also a big problem.
good
London suffers a lot from traffic congestion.
4. Poverty in the inner-city areas can breed
crime.
B. Shops, libraries, hospitals and entertainment
complexes are just a few of them.
C. Chief among these are concerts and
exhibitions.
D. In particular, I enjoy the atmosphere that is
unique to the city.
E. Prices in London are particularly exorbitant.
5. Cities around the world have seen a huge
population explosion.
F. Without them, they are unable to function
properly as cities.
6. Birmingham has plenty of amenities.
7. A lot of people visit Paris for its cultural
events.
8. Cities in poorer countries often lack basic
infrastructures.
9. The pressures of modem city life can be
difficult to deal with.
G. It is especially bad during the rush hour,
when thousands of commuters try to enter
or leave the city.
H. Stress-related illnesses are very common in
cities like New York.
I.
Nowadays there are more city dwellers than
ever before.
J.
Everywhere you go there are building sites,
pedestrian precincts, blocks of flats and
housing estates spreading into the
countryside.
10. The cost of living in some places can be very
high.
11. A lot of people appreciate the anonymity of
living in a large city.
K. They like to feel that they can do something
without everybody knowing about it.
L
12. I love the urban lifestyle I lead.
13. In Singapore, private cars are banned from
the Central Business District at peak periods.
14. Urban sprawl is prevalent in most cities.
Most people use buses and the underground
to get to the banks and offices where they
work.
M. Unfortunately, this is something that most
large capital cities lack.
N. It's a melting pot for people from all parts of
the world.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
82
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 2: Match the sentences in the left-hand column with an appropriate response in the righthand column. Use the words in bold to help you.
1. I enjoy a rural lifestyle.
2. There isn't much pollution if you live outside a
town.
A. Really? So why are we seeing so much
construction in the countryside around London?
3. There is a lot of productive land in this area.
B. I'm not so sure. All those pesticides and
chemical fertilisers that farmers use nowadays
can't be good for the environment
4. In recent years, there has been a lot of
migration from the towns to the cities.
C That's probably because we import more food
from abroad.
5. The government has promised to leave the
green belt alone,
D. Mostly wheat oats and barley.
6. There has been a huge reduction in the
amount of arable land over the last twenty
years.
7. My uncle's farm covers almost 800 hectares.
8. What are the main crops grown in this area?
E. Really? How much is that in acres?
topic specific vocabulary
Town and country
F. I'm not surprised. With such terrible prospects
within towns, depopulation is inevitable.
G. Well I can't see much evidence of cultivation.
H. Really? I always find there's nothing to do in
the countryside.
Task 3: Now read this article and fill in the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to change
some of the word forms.
For seven years I lived in Singapore, a 1
of almost three million people. Like
London, Paris and New York, Singapore is a 2
city, with people from different
parts of the world living and working together. I enjoyed the 3
lifestyle I led
there, and made the most of the superb 4
, ranging from the excellent shops to
some of the best restaurants in the world. In the evenings and at weekends there were always
5
; with such diverse attractions as classical western music, an exhibition of
Malay art or a Chinese opera in the street, it was difficult to get bored. Perhaps most impressive, however,
was the remarkable transport 6
, with excellent roads, a swift and efficient bus
service and a state-of-the-art underground system which could whisk 7
from the
suburbs straight into the heart of the city (this was particularly important, as the government banned
private cars from entering the 8
during the morning and afternoon
9
in order to reduce 10
on the roads and
11
from the exhausts).
Of course, living in a city (ike this has its disadvantages as well. For a start, the
12
can be very high - renting an apartment, for example, is very expensive. And
as the city is expanding, there are a lot of 13
where new apartments are
continually being built to deal with the 14
which is a direct result of the
government encouraging people to have more children.
Fortunately, Singapore doesn't suffer from problems that are common in many cities such as
15
, which is partly the result of the government imposing very severe penalties
on anyone bringing narcotics into the country, so it is safe to walk the streets at night. In fact, the
16
housing estates there are probably the safest and most orderly in the world.
Singapore wouldn't be ideal for everyone, however, especially if you come from the countryside and are
used to a 17
lifestyle. The traditional villages that were once common have
disappeared as the residents there realised there were no 18
for their future and
moved into new government housing in the city. Nowadays, there is very little
19
around the city, which means that Singapore imports almost all of its food.
And despite a 'green' approach to city planning, the 20
which has eaten into the
countryside has had a detrimental effect on the 21
___ .
83
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Geography
Task 1: Put the words in each line in the box in order according to their size (the smallest first,
the largest last). In each list there is one word that does not belong with the others.
1. forest
•
2. road
3
•
mountain
•
4. gorge
•
5. gulf
•
6. cliff
7. city
8.
•
copse
peak
•
footpath
hillock
plain
•
brook
•
continent
•
puddle
shore
•
•
•
•
inlet
•
river
•
hill
ocean
•
track
•
wood
•
lane
mountain range
•
hollow
•
valley
•
bay
•
cove
•
tributary
•
beach
•
waterfall
ridge
•
pond
tree
estuary
•
county
•
cape
•
stream
•
country
•
lake
Forest
Mountain
Mountain range
Valley
Gorge
Plain
Gulf
River
Estuary
Sea
Lake
Task 2: Put the words and expressions in the box into their correct category in the tables on
the next page. Some can be included in more than one category.
depopulation • mountainous • urban sprawl • fertile • ridge • cliff
densely populated • coast • under-developed • summit • industrialised
peninsula • shore • vegetation • glacier • beach • plateau
irrigation • conurbation • cape • source • coastline • tributary
waterfall
•
mouth
•
peak •
overcrowding
•
highlands
90
Peter Collin Publishing. ©2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Geographical features associated with
water and the sea
Geographical features associated with
land, hills and mountains
Words associated with agriculture and
rural land
Words associated with towns and cities
(See also module 49: Town and country)
topic specific vocabulary
Geography
(See also module 49: Town and country)
Task 3: Now look at this report of a journey and fill in the gaps with one of the words or
expressions from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You
may need to change some of the word forms.
We began our journey in the capital, Trinifuegos, a 1
conurbation of almost ten
million. It is not a pretty place; heavily 2
, with huge factories belching out
black fumes, and miles of 3
as housing estates and shopping centres spread out
from the 4
centre for miles. It was a relief to leave.
As soon as we got into the countryside, things improved considerably. The climate is dry and it is difficult
to grow anything, but thanks to 5
, which helps bring water in from the Rio
Cauto (the huge river with its 6
high up in the snow-covered
7
of the Sierra Maestra 8
), the land is fertile
enough to grow the sugar cane on which much of the economy is based. We saw few people, however,
as many have moved to the towns and cities to look for more profitable work. It is largely due to this rural
9
that the sugar-cane industry is suffering.
Further south and we entered the Holguin 10
, with mountains rising high
above us on both sides. The land here drops sharply to the sea and the slow-moving waters of the Rio
Cauto give way to 11
which tumble over cliffs, and small, fast-moving
12
which are not even wide enough to take a boat At this point, the road we
were travelling along became a 13__
which was only just wide enough for our
vehicle, and then an unpaved 14
which almost shook the vehicle to pieces.
And then suddenly, the Pacific 15
was in front of us. Our destination was the
town of Santiago de Gibara, built on a 16
sticking out into the blue waters. The
countryside here undulates gently, with low 17
covered in rich tropical jungle.
The open 18
surrounding the 19
of the Rio Cauto as
it reaches the ocean is rich and 20
____,
ideal for growing the tobacco plants which
need a lot of warm, damp soil.
That night I lay in my cheap hotel, listening to the waves gently lapping the 21
,
and when I eventually fell asleep, I dreamt of the people who had first inhabited this
22
almost two thousand years before.
91
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Practice Questions
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
What is it like where you live?
Could you tell me a bit more about your hometown?
What do you like about your hometown?
Where is your hometown located?
In what ways can you improve your hometown?
What is the main reason for liking a hometown other than the fact you were born there?
Most people in this world do not live in their hometowns. Why?
Do you like travelling?
What is your favourite type of holiday?
What do you do on holidays?
Are there many tourists visiting your country?
Describe a tourist attraction you once visited.
Why do you think tourism is so developed now?
How people choose their destination?
What kind of transport do you prefer on holidays? Why?
Do you prefer travelling alone or in tour groups? Why?
What kind of places have you visited in your life?
Which place would you really like to visit? Why?
How do you prefer to travel on long journeys?
What’s the best place you’ve ever visited?
Which method of travel do you consider safest?
Has travel become safer in recent years?
What are the pros and cons of low-cost air travel?
What places in your country, would you recommend to a foreigner?
Would you say your country is a good place for travellers to visit?
What is the best season to travel in your country?
In which seasons do you prefer to travel?
When you visit new places, what do you like to do?
Do you think your hometown is a good place for a holiday?
Describe a trip that took longer than you expected.
Describe a trip that didn’t go as you had planned/expected.
A bicycle, motorbike or car trip you would like to go on in the future
What languages do you speak?
Do you learn any foreign language?
Do you think learning languages is important?
How did you learn the languages that you know?
Can you learn more than one language at a time?
Do you think foreigner should learn your country’s language when they arrive there?
How important it is to learn about other people’s cultures?
What difficulties can people living in a foreign country experience?
What benefits can there be for people working in a foreign country?
Are you in favour of adopting a universal language?
What negative effects might come from a country losing its traditional cultures?
Describe a foreign culture that you are interested in
How can we benefit from learning about other cultures?
What do you think is the best way to learn about another culture?
What is your understanding of the term “globalization”?
Do you think globalization is a good thing?
Do you think it’s easier to learn about other cultures today than it was before?
Vocabulary 87 The media communication, entertainment and Arts
mass media / media circus / media event / media tycoon / content / new media outlets
broadsheet / poster / placard / billboard / flyer / channel / across variety of convenient platforms
theme park / amusement park / kids game zone / art gallery
literature: newspaper / magazine / paper /article / book / script / novel / poetry
art: sculpture / painting / photography / movie / cinema / feature film / exhibition / artefact
live: play / theatre / concert / festival / opera / performance
broadcasting: radio / TV show, series, program, reality, news, radio, advertising
genre: action / adventure / detectives / crime, gangster / musicals / historical, epics / fantasy
comedy / romcom / drama / thriller / horror / documentary / Sci-Fi / (non)fiction
special effects (CGI) / plot / scenery (setting, location) / stars (cast) / soundtrack
box office / budget
compose music / improvise / lyrics / record a song
professions: writer / producer / director / Director of Photography / editor / journalist / reporter
online: internet / log on to a website / download / browsing pages / podcast / e-mail account /
innovative / neglecting real communication / isolated / social media / video conference / online
shopping / internet marketing / virtual assistant / steaming / subscribe / addictive / hack
paparazzi: gutter press / invasion of privacy / libel and slander / unscrupulous / unethical /
unprincipled / immoral / shameless / dishonourable / wicked
-
freedom of the press / honest information / read between the lines
the most reliable news source / veracity of the news / properly verified
restriction / corrupt / dishonest / selected information / controllers’ opinions and attitudes
the influence of the media is undeniable / have supplanted their influence
being able to omit distortions and think independently / think outside of the box
range of distinctive views about controversial issue, apart from the government’s idea
The result is hordes of people clicking on links to amuse themselves for a minute without casting
a critical eye over the veracity of the news
articles on wider societal implications
excessive usage of social media may in fact cause a detrimental effect on individual people as
well as society and local communities.
society as a whole is becoming increasingly disjointed and fragmented
video games enhances spatial thinking and hand motility, however they are time-consuming
abilities such as tremendous focus and extremely fast reflexes
this form of entertainment is a grave detriment
application of new types of software, web designing, and graphics
airtime - time during which a broadcast is being transmitted
censorship - the practice of officially examining books, movies, and suppressing unacceptable parts
this footage is in wide circulation - the public availability or knowledge of something
current affairs - events of political or social interest and importance happening in the world atm
I’ve been watching a great deal of coverage of imminent US Presidential elections on TV and
reading about it in the papers
dumbing down - to lower the level of difficulty and the intellectual content of (smth, textbook)
inform the audience on issues
BOOKS AND FILMS
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you like to read books?
Marie: Yes … I love reading … 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 …
Examiner: How often do you go to the cinema?
Jemma: 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 …
Examiner: Do you prefer reading books or watching films?
Louisa: 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 …
Part 2-style task
Describe a book you have read or a film you have seen. You should say:
• what this book or film was
•
when you read or saw it
•
why you decided to see the film or read the book
and say if you enjoyed it and why.
Pauline 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 … it had such a great plot …
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 … a fantastic story …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Is reading as pleasurable in digital format?
Alise: 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 …
Examiner: Do you think bookshops will survive the digital revolution?
Thomas: 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 …
Examiner: Statistics show that visits to the cinema are up despite the availability of DVDs and
online downloads. Why do you think this might be?
Jamie: 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
film at home on TV … especially if it’s an action movie … and watching it with others makes it
even more special …
Definitions
• an action movie: a film with fast moving scenes, often containing violence
• to be engrossed in: to be completely focused on one thing
• bedtime reading: something to read in bed before you go to sleep
• to be a big reader: someone who reads a lot
• to be based on: to use as a modal
• a box office hit: a financially successful film
• to be heavy-going: difficult to read
• 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
• a classic: of the highest quality
• to come highly recommended: to be praised by another person
• couldn’t put it down: wasn’t able to stop reading a book
• an e-book: a digital book
• an e-reader: a device for reading e-books
• to flick through: to look quickly through a book
• to get a good/bad review: to receive positive or negative feedback
• to go on general release: when a film can be seen by the general public
• hardback: a book with a rigid cover (see ‘paperback’ below)
• a historical novel: a story set in the past
• a low budget film: a film made with a small amount of money
• on the big screen: at the cinema
• a page turner: a book that you want to keep reading
• paperback: a book with a flexible cover (see ‘hardback’ above)
• plot: the main events in a film or book
• to read something from cover to cover: to read a book from the first page to the last
• sci-fi: science fiction
• to see a film: to see a film at the cinema (see ‘watch a film’ below)
• the setting: where the action takes place
• showings: performances of a film
• 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 tell the story of: to outline the details of someone’s life or an event
• to watch a film: to watch a film on TV (see ‘to see a film’ above)
Music
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What kind of music do you listen to?
Katherine: I’m a big fan of classical music … it doesn’t make me very popular with my children
… their taste in music is completely different … they always want to listen to their
favourite rock bands…
Examiner: Do you play any instruments?
Jamie: No I don’t … I’ve always wished I’d taken up a musical instrument … I’d love to be
able to play the guitar … but I think I’m a bit tone deaf so perhaps I’d find it hard …
Examiner: Have you got any hobbies or interests?
Marco: I’m really into live music … I go to a lot of music festivals … I think a live
performance always sounds more exciting than a recorded version … as long as the performers
can sing and play well of course …
Part 2-style task
Describe a song you like to listen to. You should say
• what the piece of music is called
•
how long you have liked it
•
when you like to listen to it
and say why you like it so much.
Millie: Well … I’m a little older than most students and when I was young Abba the
Swedish pop group were very famous … I don’t think it was cool to like them even though they
had a huge following but I think now people have realised what wonderful songs they wrote …
one piece of music in particular is called ‘Slipping through my fingers’ … it wasn’t a massive
hit but I love it … it’s a song for parents and it’s all about how quickly our children grow up …
it’s a slow number and like a lot of their songs it’s a very catchy tune … the two women in
Abba had great voices and it’s the kind of music you can also sing along to easily … even if you
don’t have a great voice … I listen to Abba when I feel like a sing-song … and I especially like
to listen when I’m doing the housework … it stops me thinking about the hard work …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Is the Internet a good or bad thing for the music industry?
Thomas: On the one hand it’s good for marketing new musical talent or particular bands but it’s
so easy to share and download tracks for free I think it is costing the industry a lot of money …
Examiner: Should music be treated as seriously as subjects like maths or sciences at school?
Carla: I think it should … I don’t think it should be taught in a boring way … I mean making
children read music … but I do think they should be encouraged to play instruments and to play
things by ear perhaps … to keep the lessons fun …
Examiner: Where do people usually enjoy listening to music?
Sally: In lots of ways or places … as background music when they are doing something else …
at concerts when a band goes on tour… or in clubs or discos …
Definitions
• adoring fans: people who love a particular band or singer
• background music: music that is played while something else is happening
• a catchy tune: a song that is easy to remember and makes you want to sing it
• classical music: music that is regarded as part of a long, formal tradition
• to download tracks: to obtain music from the Internet
• to have a great voice: to sing well
• to go on tour: to go on a planned series of performances around a region or country
• a huge following: a large number of fans
• live music: music that is listened to while it is performed (not recorded)
• live performance: (see live music)
• a massive hit: a record that sells lots of copies
• a music festival: music performances at a venue often over several days
• musical talent: skilled at music
• to be/sing out of tune: to not be in harmony/to sing the wrong notes
• a piece of music: an item of music
• to play by ear: to play without reading the musical notes
• a pop group: a small group of people who play or sing pop music together
• to read music: to understand and follow written musical notes
• a rock band: a group of musicians that play rock music
• to sing along to: to join in singing
• a sing-song: to sing informally, often with other people
• a slow number: a song with a slow tempo
• to take up a musical instrument: to begin learning a musical instrument
• taste in music: the music someone likes
• to be tone deaf: to be unable to distinguish the different notes in music
Advertising
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Are there any TV channels in your country that don’t have adverts?
Loraine: No … they’re all commercial channels and show adverts all day long … too many
really … and there’s also a lot of product placement going on … especially in soap operas
where they place an item just behind the actors.
Examiner: Do you enjoy watching adverts on TV?
Karin: No … not really … I hate commercial breaks during a film … it really spoils the flow …
and during prime time viewing they seem to squeeze even more ads in than usual … celebrity
endorsements also get on my nerves … everyone knows they’re only doing it because they’re
getting paid.
Examiner: What are the best ways for ordinary people to advertise something they want to sell in
your country?
Marianne: The simplest way is to place an advert in something like the classified ads section of
a local paper … or there’s the Internet of course … there are lots of sites like eBay where you
can buy and sell things online.
Part 2-style task
Describe an advert you once saw that was very effective. You should say
• where this advert appeared
•
when you saw it
•
what it was advertising
and say why you thought it was so effective.
Max: OK … well this was about 4 years ago … I was looking for some software to create videos
… one day I got an email from a mailing list I’d signed up to … there was a link in it to a press
release … a company had written something about a new product that was similar to what I was
looking for … at the end of the press release there was a link to the sales page … I hadn’t heard
of the company but I was interested and clicked the link to the ad …. what caught my attention
immediately were the number of testimonials from people who had bought the software … I
think testimonials are like the online equivalent of word of mouth advertising and are really
persuasive … anyway … when I got to the bottom of the page there was a great big call to
action button inviting me to buy … I was totally persuaded and ended up making a purchase …
what made it so effective I think was the power of those testimonials … they’d been written by
people very much like me … they’d had a need and the software had obviously turned out to be
just what they were looking for … when you think that this was a newish company they
wouldn’t have had any brand awareness at all … they probably wouldn’t have had much of a
budget for advertising … obviously you wouldn’t advertise a product like this through the mass
media on TV … they probably didn’t even have an advertising agency to support them …and
yet they’d managed to create a great deal of brand loyalty from previous customers … I think
that was really effective.
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What is it that makes an advert effective?
Spencer: Well … when a company launches a product they have to consider the Internet …
especially how it can be used to spread the word on social media … so in this context a video
that goes viral is probably the most effective type of advert you could make.
Examiner: What are the advantages to companies of advertising on the Internet rather than TV?
Stelios: I’d imagine the main advantage is you can reach your target audience much more
effectively … if you bring out a niche product for example … or you have a tight advertising
budget … you can advertise on particular sites that the people you want to reach visit … that’s
not something you can do on TV.
Examiner: What things do advertising companies do that might give it a bad name?
Raol: For me the most irritating is cold calling … we must get two or three of these every day at
work … then there’s junk mail that gets posted through the letterbox … and of course the online
equivalent of this … spam emails … I think it’s this kind of advertising that tends to annoy
people.
Definitions
• advertising agency: a company that creates adverts for other companies
• advertising budget: the amount of money a company decides to spend on advertising
• brand awareness: how well people know a particular brand
• brand loyalty: the degree to which people continue to buy from the same brand or company
• buy and sell: often used to refer to the buying and selling of items between individuals
• call to action: something that encourages someone to take a particular action, such as making a
purchase or clicking a link on a website
• celebrity endorsement: to have a well-known person promote a product
• classified ads: small advertisements often put in a newspaper or magazine by individuals
• to cold call: to call someone with the aim of selling something without them asking you to
• commercial break: the short period during TV programmes when advertisements are shown
• commercial channel: TV channels that make money from showing advertisements
• to go viral: to quickly become extremely popular on the Internet through social media
• junk mail: unwanted promotional leaflets and letters
• to launch a product: to introduce a new product
• mailing list: a list of names and contact details used by a company to send information and
advertisements
• mass media: large media outlets like TV, newspapers and magazines
• niche product: a product that is aimed at a distinct group of people
• to place an advert: to put an advert somewhere
• product placement: to advertise a product by using it as a prop in a TV show or film
• sales page: a page specifically used to promote a product or service
• to show adverts: to display adverts on TV
• social media: websites that enable users to create and share content or to participate in social
networking.
• spam email: unwanted, promotional email
• target audience: the people a company want to sell their product or service to
• word of mouth: recommendations made by individuals to others about a product of service
NEWS
Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn news. However, others believe
that they can learn news better through other media. Discuss both views and give your
opinion
Newspapers have been considered the most reliable news source for more than a century but
in recent decades newer forms of media have supplanted their influence. Some feel that
these new sources of news are better but in my opinion, newspapers are by far better
because of the amount of time and research that writers put into their articles.
The main reason that many people prefer newer media outlets is that they deliver news more
quickly across a variety of convenient platforms. The most notable example of this is online
news. The vast majority of people get their news from Facebook and other social media
websites which aggregate articles from various online publishers, including the online
version of print newspapers in some cases. The problem here is that websites are solely
concerned with increasing traffic and getting news up as fast as possible. It is a common
occurrence for a website to publish news quickly in order to beat others to the scoop before
it has been properly verified or even thoughtfully analysed. The result is hordes of people
clicking on links to amuse themselves for a minute without casting a critical eye over the
veracity of the news. These articles are then shared online or by word of mouth and false
information spreads rapidly.
Despite the conveniences of online media, the news that is printed in newspapers has been
better researched and verified in most cases. Newspapers frequently devote entire
departments to long-term investigative journalism. A standout example of this would be the
Boston Globe’s years long investigation into sexual abuse by the Catholic church. They
carefully interviewed victims and put together a convincing case which led to long-lasting
reforms and convictions of some individuals. They also published stories on the topic for
over a year which allowed for detailed and thoughtful analysis of the problem, suggestions
for solutions, and articles on wider societal implications. This type of reporting is anathema
to the fervent pace of online media.
In conclusion, even though newspapers are a dying industry I think they are more
informative and trustworthy than the largely online institutions that are replacing them. This
trend is irreversible and will have consequences for the future of democracies around the
world as people become less informed.
INTERNET and POPULARITY
Nowadays an ordinary person can become popular through the Internet and TV media. Is it
a positive or a negative development? Give your opinion and relevant examples.
Television and especially the internet have made it possible for an everyday person to
become a celebrity much more easily in the past. However, this phenomenon has also
created a situation where this can lead to a regular, innocent person having their life
devastated. Therefore, it seems that despite the positive aspects of this development, the
negative effects are more apparent.
The ability to become popular through digital media obviously leads to the opportunity to
become rich and famous. In the past, this was controlled by film studio executives and
record labels, but now a typical person can become a star simply by word of mouth. For
example, many popular Youtube stars became famous (and wealthy) simply by their fans
sharing their content and then things snowballed from there.
Nevertheless, the dark side of this ease of access to fame is that it can lead to infamy for a
person who maybe did not do much to deserve it. For every example of a new star emerging
from the internet or a TV talent show, there are myriad more instances of Everyday Joes
who have been harassed and had their lives ruined because of public scrutiny.
Furthermore, this can arise when someone is completely innocent, such as in the case of
online bullying, or even when someone seeks out attention but is ruthlessly mocked for
trying to do something creative.
Overall, an increase in the ability for people to express themselves and their creativity is a
desirable thing in general. However, in reality the opportunity to become popular is also the
opportunity to become popular for the wrong reasons.
Task 1: Match the words and expressions in box A with a suitable definition in box B.
Box A.
1. current affairs
2. reporters
3. journalists
4. tabloids
5. broadsheets
6. coverage
7. information overload
8. broadcasts
9. web
10. website
11. download
12. the Internet
13. log on
Box B.
A. large format newspapers
1.
the millions of pages and sites which
display text and images within the
Internet
J.
to transfer pages from a web site onto
our own computer
B. small format newspapers
C.
people who write for newspapers or
periodicals
D. the amount of space or time given to an
event in newspapers or on television
E. the political situation as it is now
K. the international network
millions of computers
F.
L
radio or television programmes
topic specific vocabulary
The media
linking
G. to enter a password and start to access
a computer system
a modern expression referring to the
inability of a human to process
everything he or she hears and sees
H. journalists who write reports of events
for a newspaper, periodical or television
programme
M. a collection of related pages on the
World Wide Web created by a company,
organisation or individual
Task 2: Complete this extract from a television interview with an appropriate word or
expression from the box.
entertainment • invasion of privacy • exploiting • libel • censorship
information • readership • media tycoon • paparazzi • freedom of the press
unscrupulous
•
gutter
press
•
chequebook
journalism
Interviewer:
Welcome to today's programme. Today we will
be discussing the
1
, and asking the question: Should we allow newspapers and
television channels to print or say whatever they like? In the studio I have television
personality Timothy Blake and 2
Rupert Poubelle, multimillionaire owner of the Daily Views newspaper. Timothy, let's start with you.
T.B.:
Thank you. In my opinion, it's time the government imposed stricter
3
of
the
press
in
order
to
prevent
4
journalists and reporters from making money by
5
people. I have often accused Mr Poubelle's organisation of
6
- nowadays I can't even sunbathe in my garden without
being photographed by his hoardes of 7
__
They're like
vultures. And everything they print about me is lies, complete rubbish.
Interviewer:
But isn't it true that the media provides us with valuable 8
51
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
The media
and 9
Rupert?
R.P.:
T.B.:
R.P.:
, and censorship would deprive us of much of this?
Of course. Mr. Blake's accusations are unfounded, as are the accusations of
10
we have received, and I can safely say that my journalists
never pay people money to create stories. We are simply reporting the truth. Of course,
if Mr. Blake wants to sue us for 11
, he is very welcome to try.
But he would be depriving our 12
- all eight million of them
- of the things they want...
You're talking rubbish, as usual, like the pathetic 13
and use to fill your pockets with dirty money.
you own
Now look here, mate...
Task 3: Now read this essay and complete the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2. You may need to change the form of some of the words.
The media plays a valuable role in keeping us informed and entertained. However, many
people believe it has too much power and freedom.' Discuss your views on this, giving
examples and presenting a balanced argument both in favour of, and against, the power and
freedom of the media.'
Barely a hundred years ago, if we wanted to stay informed about what was going on in the world, we
had to rely on word of mouth or, at best, newspapers. But because communication technology was very
basic, the news we received was often days or weeks old.
We still have newspapers, of course, but they have changed almost beyond recognition. Whether we
choose to read the 1
, with their quality 2
of news
and other 3
by top 4
and articles by acclaimed
5
, or if we prefer the popular 6
, with their lively
gossip and colourful stories, we are exposed to a wealth of information barely conceivable at the
beginning of the last century.
We also have television and radio. News 7
let us know about world events
practically as they happen, while sitcoms, chat shows and documentaries, etc. keep us entertained and
informed. And there is also the 8
, where we can access information from
millions of 9
around the world which we can then
10
onto our own computers.
However, these forms of 11
and 12
(or
'infotainment' as they are now sometimes collectively called) have their negative side. Famous
personalities frequently accuse the 13
(and sometimes even respectable
papers) of 14
by the 15
who are determined to
get a story at any cost. Newspapers are often accused of 16
by angry
politicians who dislike reading lies about themselves, and there are frequent accusations of
17
, with 18
reporters paying people to
create stories for their newspapers or television programmes. Of course, it is not just the papers
which are to blame. Sex and violence are increasing on the television. Undesirable people
fill the 19_
with equally undesirable material which can be accessed by
anyone with a home computer. And the fear of 20
prevents many from
21
to the Internet.
Many argue that the government should impose stricter 22
to prevent such
things happening. But others argue that 23
is the keystone of a free country.
Personally, I take the view that while the media may occasionally abuse its position of power, the benefits
greatly outweigh the disadvantages. Our lives would be much emptier without the wealth of information
available to us today, and we are better people as a result.
52
Peter Collin Publishing. (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 1: Look at sentences 1-10, which are all extracts from art reviews, and decide what is
being talked about in each one. Choose the most appropriate answer from the box. There are
some which are not needed.
Performing arts
a modern dance piece • a concert • a play • an opera • a film • a ballet
Literature
poetry • a biography • drama • a novel • a collection of short stories
topic specific vocabulary
The arts
Fine / Visual Arts
abstract art • a landscape • a portrait • a still life • a sculpture
1. Mimi Latouche is getting a little too old for this kind of thing, and as I watched her pirouette across
the stage in a tutu two sizes too small, she reminded me not so much of a swan as a rather ungainly
crow.
2. The scenery was wonderful. The costumes were marvellous. The cast were incredible. I wish I could say
the same about the script. The playwright should be shot.
3.
In his new book on Ernest Hemingway, acclaimed writer Michael Norris has brought the great man to
life in a way nobody else could.
4.
Move over Michelangelo! You have a rival. Vittorio Manelleto's marble pieces embody the human
form in a way that has not been achieved in over five hundred years.
5.
I had to study the picture for almost two minutes before I realised who it was. It was none other than
our Queen. I doubt she would have been amused.
6. There are no great tenors in Britain. That is until now. Brian Clack's performance in La Traviatta sent
shudders down my spine. What a man! What a voice! What a size!
7.
Herbert von Caravan has been conducting now for almost forty years, and his final appearance
yesterday was greeted with remarkable applause from both musicians and members of the audience.
8.
'Stone Angel' is an hilarious tale about the fall and rise of an opera singer. I picked it up and didn't
put it down until I had finished. A fantastic book.
9.
Dylan Thomas showed remarkable eloquence, and this latest compilation of some of his finest verse
will surely be a bestseller.
10. Bruschetta's studies of dead animals might not be to everyone's taste, but it is impossible to deny his
skill in representing inanimate objects like these on canvas.
79
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1*901659-06-2)
Task 3: Now look at this extract from a radio programme and fill in the gaps with one of the
words or expressions from Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be
possible. You may need to change some of the word forms.
Hello, and welcome to today's edition of 'But is it Art?'
Now, I don't usually enjoy 1
- all those pirouettes and pas de deux's and
dying swans usually send me to sleep, but last night's 2
of 'Sleeping Beauty'
at Nureyev Hall had me on the edge of my seat. And I'm not the only one: rave
3
in the national press praised the excellent choreography and the incredible
stage set It's on again tonight, but you'll have to move fast if you want a ticket!
The
current
4
of Monetto's paintings at the Wheatley
5
has been a disappointment. The pictures themselves are excellent, especially
the great artist's 6
of film stars, and of course his stunning
7
of a vase of daffodils, but the lighting inside the room was terrible. I would
have thought that, having received a government 8
of almost £100,000, the
Wheatley Arts Council could have invested it in some good lights.
topic specific vocabulary
The arts
Fans of the great twentieth century 9
George Orwell will be delighted to
hear that Swansong Press are going to release a collection of his greatest 10
,
which will of course include 'Animal Farm' and 'Nineteen Eighty Four'. Also included are some rare short
stories which were not 11
until after his death. Look out for the book, which
will be in the shops from the end of the month.
On the subject of books, a new 12
of the life of conductor
Charles Worsenmost is due to be released in January. Worsenmost conducted his last
13
in 1998 after a long and eventful career. This is highly recommended
for anyone who is remotely interested in classical music
Have you ever wanted to be an 14
singer? Well, now's your chance!
The National Music Company are looking for tenors and sopranos to audition for a new production of
Mozart's 'Marriage of Figaro'. If you're interested, we'll give you the number to call at the end of
the programme.
Potential Michelangelo's and Henry Moore's can try their hand at 15
this
weekend. The Gleneagles Museum is holding a series of workshops which will give you the chance to chip
away at a lump of stone to produce a piece of three-dimensional art. There's no need to book - just turn
up at the door on Saturday at nine o'clock.
And now here's that number I promised you...
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
81
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Practice Questions
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Where do you usually get the news from? (Why do you choose that medium?)
Do you regularly read any magazines? (What kinds of topics do they cover?)
Do you often read a newspaper? (Why/ Why not?)
Describe a television or radio station that you often watch or listen to.
Do large media organisations have too much influence? (What makes you say that?)
What is the most important medium for people in your country? (What about people your age?)
Do people in your country generally listen to the radio? (What kinds of things?)
How important are newspapers? (What is their future in the age of the internet?)
What could be the consequences of the decline of newspapers? (How important is it?)
How reliable are newspapers, television news and the Internet as news sources, do you think?
(Which do you trust most?)
How much do you think the government should get involved in making sure the media are well
balanced? (What could they do?)
Are the news sources available getting better or worse? (What about the content of an average
newspaper or television channel?)
Do you think your government is doing enough to protect children from sexual and violent
images? (What more could be done?)
What can be done to make the media better quality in your country? (Do you think that is likely?)
What are the advantages and disadvantages of people getting the news from the internet? (Do
the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?)
What is your favourite type of online entertainment?
How much time do you spend on online entertainment?
Do you ever feel you spend too much time online?
Are there any new online activities would you like to try in the future?
Describe a fun indoor game you played as a teenager.
Are there a lot of places in your country for young people to go out?
What kinds of live entertainment are popular in your country?
What are the dangers of spending too much time on online entertainment?
Is entertainment these days better than in the past because of technology?
What forms of online entertainment have become popular these days?
Are advertisements important?
Do you watch advertisements on television or on internet?
Are there many advertisements in your country?
Why do you think there are so many advertisements now?
Where are the places we see advertisements?
How do you feel about advertisements?
What kind of advertisements do you like the most?
What type of advertisements do you prefer to use for getting information?
Do advertisements influence your choice of product?
Have you ever bought anything after seeing its advertisements?
What are the differences in advertisements on television and those in magazines?
What do you think is the purpose of advertisements?
Do you think advertising plays an important role in today’s world?
What sort of advertisements have a deeper impact on people?
Did you see any recent ad which had a deep impact on you?
What are your favourite genre of film?
Do you enjoy watching films or tv series?
Do you watch more foreign or local tv?
How might TV influence children, both positively and negatively?
How has the social media changed the way we share the news with other people?
Is there any recent international news you felt was indeed good to hear?
How important is it to know the world news?
Why do you think people often do not share a good news with other people?
8 Money and Finance
Vocabulary 11
balance / deposit / bank statement / bill / invoice / check / receipt / credit card / debit card
salary / minimum wage / pay / earnings / income
market / advertise / sell / trade / promote
in the red - overdraft / company have spent more money than they have in their account and
therefore they owe money to the bank
lend / borrow / loan
financial loss / net loss
extravagant - (spends money unwisely) lacking restraint in spending money
exorbitant - unreasonably high, overpriced, overcharged (Apple is exorbitantly expensive)
worthless / valueless / poor quality / ineffective / second-rate - having no real value or use
bankruptcy - the state of being with no money / being broke / an insolvent person
inflation - a general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money
in the black - company is profitable or, more specifically, if it produces positive earnings
after accounting for all expenses
frugal / thrifty - spending money wisely, economically (not wasting money)
priceless - so precious that its value cannot be determined
dividends - is a payment made by a company to its shareholders (distribution of profit)
invest in stocks and shares / invest in the real estate
profit / revenue / financial gain - the difference between the amount earned and the amount
spent in buying, operating, or producing something.
economise - (use less) the water supply / economise savings and loan association
inherit - receive (money, property, or a title) as an heir at the death of the previous holder.
welfare - the health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group.
mortgage - ипотека
financial interest / interest rate - процентная ставка
pension - a regular payment made during a person's retirement from an investment fund
to which that person or their employer has contributed during their working life
bargain - an agreement between two sides as to what each side will do for the other
withdraw cash / ATM (Automated Teller Machine / Cash Machine)
income tax - is a tax you pay on your income directly to the government.
Shops all over the country are making huge reductions on just about everything.
refund - pay back to a customer who is not satisfied with goods or services bought.
rebate - a partial refund to someone who has paid too much money for tax, rent, or a utility.
When I got home, I noticed that I was undercharged.
Business
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you work or are you a student?
Hati: I run my own business actually … I have an online business selling cosmetics … I set up
the business 5 years ago and I’m really enjoying working for myself …
Examiner: What is your ideal job?
Kaori: I don’t think I’d enjoy working for a big company … I think I’d like to go it alone and
be self-employed … I’m not sure what area of business it would be but I think I’d enjoy the
process of drawing up a business plan and seeing if I could be successful …
Examiner: Is your town a nice place to live?
Monique: It’s OK … the main problem we have is our local high street … it used to be a busy
centre but lots of shops have gone bust … it must be very difficult to make a profit when you
have huge supermarkets in the area and a lot haven’t been able to survive with such cut-throat
competition
Part 2-style task
Describe a business you know that you admire. You should say
• what this business is
•
what the business sells
•
how long you have known about the business
and say why you like it so much.
Magda: Actually I discovered a business very recently that I like so much I’d like to do
something similar in the future … it’s a small niche business that runs courses in how to cook …
especially bread … the owner uses his kitchen for the courses and went into business with a
local community shop and sells a lot of the bread and cakes they make in the shop … I first got
to hear about the business last year … my wife paid for me to do one of the baking courses and I
got to know the owner during the training … it’s a lifestyle business really … he doesn’t have
plans to take on employees or expand into new areas … he’s happy earning a living doing the
thing he loves … I really admire what he does and I’m sure a lot of people would love to do
something similar … he has a web presence … in fact that’s how we got to find out about his
company … and he uses social media to raise the company profile… but he’s the only person
involved in running the business so he’s in complete control of where the business goes …
that’s something that must make it really satisfying … as long as he’s managing to balance the
books and the cash flow is healthy I’m sure he must be very pleased with what he has achieved
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Why do some people decide to set up their own business?
Marion: I suppose it’s the idea of being in control of your own destiny … or of believing in a
product or service idea you may have … plus it must be very exciting … launching
products … winning contracts … and seeing your sales figures improving must be wonderful
…
Examiner: What are some of the dangers involved in starting a business?
Hiro: Well … obviously you need to have a good idea … some people say you need
to do market research beforehand so you know what the market wants … if you don’t do this
you could go under … and if it is a good idea the chances are someone else is doing the same
thing so you could end up facing stiff competition…
Examiner: What are some of things you have to do when running your own business that might
not appeal to everyone?
Katy: Personally I don’t like being in debt so taking out a business loan wouldn’t suit me at all
… and I know a lot of companies do cold calling to try and drum up business … that’s
something I’d hate to do … and laying people off if the business gets into trouble … that would
be horrible …
Definitions
• to balance the books: to not spend more money than you are earning
• to be self-employed: to work for yourself/to not work for an employer
• to cold call: to make a sales call to someone without asking them for permission first
• cut throat competition: when one company lowers its prices, forcing other companies to do
the same, sometimes to a point where business becomes unprofitable
• to do market research: to do research into what potential customers would or wouldn’t buy
• to draw up a business plan: to write a plan for a new business
• to drum up business: to try to get customers
• to earn a living: to earn money
• to go bust: when a business is forced to close because it is unsuccessful
• cash flow: the money coming in and going out of a business
• to go into business with: to join another person to start or expand a business
• to go it alone: to start your own business
• to go under: (see ‘to go bust’)
• to have a web presence: to have a website or social media profile that showcases your
business
• to launch a product: to start selling and promoting a new product
• to lay someone off: when a company ends an employee’s contract of employment
• lifestyle business: a business that is set up to bring in a sufficient income and no more
• to make a profit: to earn more money than it costs to run the business
• niche business: a business that serves a small, particular market
• to raise a company profile: to make more people aware of a business
• to run your own business: to have a business of your own
• sales figures: a report of the income a company generates through sales of products or
services
• to set up a business: to start a business
• stiff competition: strong competition from other companies in the same area of work
• to take on employees: to employ people
• to take out a loan: to borrow money
• to win a contract: when a business gets legally-binding work with an individual or company
• to work for yourself: (see ‘to be self-employed’)
Clothes and Fashion
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you enjoy buying clothes?
Pedro: I used to … yes … like most young people I was a bit of a slave to fashion and I’d
always have to buy that must-have shirt or pair of shoes … I’m not so bothered now though … I
wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing something old fashioned but I’m not as bothered as I used to
be about what I wear …
Examiner: What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
Marco: I prefer casual clothes actually … I hate getting dressed up for special occasions …
personally I think it’s possible to look good in a pair of jeans … but that’s my opinion … I don’t
think my wife would call me a fashion icon that’s for sure …
Examiner: Are there many clothes shops where you live?
Sylvia: Yes … there are lots in my town … apart from the big chain stores we’ve got a couple of
really nice shops that sell vintage clothes … old clothes but in a classic style that never really go
out of fashion … I love going there …
Part 2-style task
Describe someone you know who dresses well. You should say
• who they are
•
how you know them
•
what kind of clothes they wear
and say why you like the way they dress.
Tomoko: I’d like to talk about one of my teachers … Miss Evans … she teaches us English in
the school I go to … we always look forward to seeing what she’s going to wear when our
lessons start … she’s always very well dressed and takes a lot of pride in her appearance …
it’s not that she dresses in very smart clothes … she doesn’t come to school dressed to kill or
anything like that … but what she wears really suits her … and she has a great sense of style as
well … we often ask her where she gets some of her clothes and most of the time they’re just off
the peg … and she says she’s not interested in designer labels or anything like that … she
doesn’t seem too concerned about keeping up with the latest fashion … she just wears clothes
that are timeless … yes … Miss Evans is the person I think looks great in the clothes she wears
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What factors do you think affect the clothes we choose to wear?
Maki: It depends … where we are or where we’re going is a big factor … if you are going out to
a club or party you’re going to dress for the occasion … and then there are those who think it’s
important to look like they’re on trend … they’ll want to wear the latest fashions … there are
lots of factors really …
Examiner: What kind of things determine what is in fashion and what we should be wearing?
Martin: I suppose the big fashion houses and fashion shows must have an effect but the clothes
you see on the catwalk don’t always reflect what normal people wear … so I suppose it will be
things like what singers are wearing in videos or models are wearing in magazines … that kind
of thing …
Examiner: Is it possible to look good without spending lots of money on clothes?
Corinna: I’m sure it is … yes … I suppose it’s about having an eye for what looks good …
knowing how to mix and match different items of clothing that go well together … I think you
can pick up great bargains in charity shops … sometimes for youngsters even hand-medowns can look good …
Definitions
• to be on trend: to be very fashionable
• casual clothes: not formal
• classic style: a simple, traditional style that is always fashionable
• designer label: a well-known company that makes (often expensive) clothing
• dressed to kill: wearing clothes that attract admirers
• to dress for the occasion: to wear clothes suitable for a particular event
• fashionable: in fashion
• fashion house: a company that sells (usually expensive) new styles in clothes
• fashion icon: a person who is famous for their sense of fashion
• fashion show: an event where modals show off the latest in fashion designs
• to get dressed up: to put on nice clothes, often to go out somewhere special
• to go out of fashion: to not be in fashion any more
• hand-me-downs: clothes that are passed down from older brothers or sisters to their younger
siblings
• to have an eye for (fashion): to be a good judge of
• to have a sense of style: the ability to wear clothes that look stylish
• the height of fashion: very fashionable
• to keep up with the latest fashion: to wear the latest fashions
• to look good in: to wear something that suits you
• to mix and match: to wear different styles or items of clothing that aren’t part of a set outfit
• must-have: something that is highly fashionable and therefore in demand
• off the peg: clothing that is ready made
• old fashioned: not in fashion any more
• on the catwalk: the stage that modals walk along to show off the latest fashions
• a slave to fashion: someone who always feel the need to wear the latest fashions
• smart clothes: the kind of clothes worn for a formal event
• to suit someone: to look good on someone
• to take pride in one’s appearance: to pay attention to how one looks
• timeless: something that doesn’t go out of fashion
• vintage clothes: clothes from an earlier period
• well-dressed: to be dressed attractively
Shopping
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you often go shopping for personal items?
Maxine: 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 …
Examiner: Are there many shops where you live?
Jenny: 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 …
Examiner: Do you enjoy shopping?
Marco: 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-style task
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
and say how you felt about buying it for them.
Coleen: 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-style questions
Examiner: Do you think we will stop using paper money in the future?
Louisa: 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.
Examiner: How do companies encourage the consumer to spend their money?
Peter: 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 …
Examiner: What do you think shops need to do to create a positive shopping experience?
Tania: 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 …
Definitions
• advertising campaign: a series of advertisements to persuade people to buy something
• big brand names: large well-known companies or product names
• to be careful with money: to not over-spend
• carrier bag: bags (usually plastic) supplied by shops
• customer service: the degree to which customers are treated well
• to get into debt: to owe money
• to give someone the hard sell: to put pressure on someone to buy something
• high street names: well-known shops
• independent stores: small shops independent of large companies
• local shops: community shops
• loyalty card: a card issued by a shop to allow customers to save money on the basis of what
they spend
• must-have product: a product that is very popular that a lot of people want to have
• to be on a tight budget: to have a limited amount of money to spend
• to be on commission: to pay someone in relation to the amount they sell
• a pay in cash: to pay for something using coins or paper money
• to pay the full price: to pay the full amount for something
• to pick up a bargain: to buy something much cheaper than the normal price
• to run up a credit card bill: to owe money on a credit card
• to shop around: to try different shops to find the best deal
• shop assistant: the person who serves customers
• to shop until you drop: to do a lot of shopping
• to slash prices: to reduce prices a great deal
• to snap up a bargain: to buy something quickly that is being sold cheaply
• summer sales: a period in the year when things are sold cheaply
• to try something on: to see if an item of clothing fits or is suitable
• to be value for money: to be worth the cost
• window shopping: to visit a store to look at items without the intention of buying anything
FINANCES and BUSINESS
These days some people spend a lot of money on tickets to go to sporting or events.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
The issue of whether to spend one’s hard earned wages on attending expensive football,
rugby or baseball matches or other exclusive diversions as opposed using it more wisely and
prudently has become a matter of concern for many. Critics argue that such frivolity is a
misuse of precious funds however, I personally believe the opposite. This essay will discuss
why the benefits of attending sport or cultural occasions are worth more than the actual
ticket price by using examples taken from the Harvard Business Review and the Woodstock
Festival.
On the one hand those festival goers and sports fans who attend concerts, gigs, matches or
athletic competitions happily extol the virtues of these on their overall well-being, both
physical and mental. The main reason for this is twofold, firstly by watching, participating
and enjoying a game people’s overactive stress levels can be radically reduced. Secondly,
many such important and well-respected events have become a noteworthy opportunity
for socializing or networking. For example, a recent article published by the Harvard
Business Review showed that key, ambitious top executives in the 500 Fortune companies
had invested in tickets for basketball games not only for themselves but for their clients
aiming to seek distraction and amusement while entertaining and nurturing future
business contacts. Therefore, although it could be suggested that the high price of ticket
sales has been exacerbated by powerful Corporates or event organizers with sky high
budgets, there is no doubt of the positive spin- offs to health and business.
On the other hand, if money is no object, then there is overwhelming evidence that going
to festivals, attending concerts or investing in experiences is a growing trend which is
appreciated because of its ability to build fond and durable memories which last a
lifetime and become part of a family’s history. An example of this was the mythical
Woodstock music festival in 1969, which was a peaceful milestone witnessed by thousands
of people who have afforded it legendary status. Thus, the emotional value of such events
cannot be overstated.
To conclude from the aforementioned arguments, I firmly believe that despite the frequently
prohibitively high prices of attending sport and cultural events, doing so can be enormously
positive and justifiable for the benefits it brings to those who are there. From the significant
growth in richly diverse Festivals worldwide, it could be predicted that in the future this
kind of events will continue to grow in popularity as people elect to spend their earnings on
experiences rather than in material goods.
ECONOMY and STORES
In some countries, small town-centre shops are going out of business because people tend to
drive to large out-of-town stores. As a result, people without cars have limited access to outof-town stores, and it may result in an increase in the use of cars. Do the advantages of this
development outweigh the disadvantages?
As a result of urbanization, cities are now surrounded by suburbs, and these areas often
feature a large mall or shopping centre. The concentration of products in one location
make these retail outlets attractive destinations for consumers, who almost without
exception drive to them. Despite the benefits of these all-in-one locations, there are some
notable drawbacks that should be considered.
Beginning with the positive aspects, it is clear that a gigantic mall offers more choice to the
consumer. Moreover, the large chain stores that populate these shopping centres generally
offer cheaper prices due to economies of scale. A further convenience is that a considerable
amount of the population resides in suburban zones, so these large shopping centers are
actually closer to people than traditional stores situated in the central business district.
Nevertheless, there are some highly undesirable effects of this situation. For one, large
stores and malls are operated by monolithic corporations who run small shop owners out
of business, while not returning much to the local community. In fact, Walmart, one of the
largest mega-stores in the United States receives a massive amount of government
welfare, while locally-owned businesses are forced into bankruptcy and even Walmart
employees are paid minimum wage and often rely on government handouts. Not to
mention, the almost ubiquitous practice of driving to malls and large chain stores puts a
strain on local transport infrastructure, increasing traffic congestion and contributing to
air pollution.
Overall, while having everything available in one location is undeniably convenient, the
harm to local communities is similarly clear. As the saying goes, ‘You can’t have your cake
and eat it too’, and in this instance it seems that the benefits of large stores is outweighed by
the economic and social harm they cause.
topic specific vocabulary
Money & finance
Task 1: Use a dictionary to find the difference
the following groups.
between the words and expressions in bold in
1. make a profit & make a loss
1 1 . a bank and a building society
2.
12. a discount & a refund
extravagant & frugal / economical
3. a current account & a deposit account
13. something which was a bargain, something
which was overpriced and something which
4. a loan & a mortgage
5.
was exorbitant
to deposit money & to withdraw money
6. a wage & a salary
14. worthless & priceless
7.
1 5. save money and invest money
broke & bankrupt
8. shares, stocks, and dividends
16. inflation and deflation
9. income tax & excise duty
17. income and expenditure
10. to credit & to debit
18. to lend and to borrow
Task 2: Match the sentences in column A with the sentences in column B. Use the words in bold
to help you.
Column A
Column B
1. The managing director believes the
company should start producing pocket
computers.
A. I'm really looking forward to spending my
pens/on.
B. The cost of living seems to go up every day.
2. I always put my money in a building society
and not in a bank.
3. I can't afford to buy a new car right now.
I don't have enough money.
4. I find Christmas a very expensive time.
5.
I came into a lot of money recently when
my uncle died.
6. Look at this cheque that came in the post
this morning from the Inland Revenue.
7.
I've been spending too much recently.
8.
In my country, there are a lot of very poor
people and only a few rich ones.
C. Of course, it's always so difficult to
economise.
D. Shops all over the country are making huge
reductions on just about everything.
E. I always seem to run up a huge overdraft at
the bank.
F.
G. Fortunately
benefit.
I
receive
unemployment
H. There is a very uneven distribution of
wealth.
I.
9. I lost my job last month.
Of course, the potential global market for
them is enormous.
J.
The interest they pay me is much higher.
It's the first time I've inherited something.
10. I retire next month.
K. It seems to be some kind of tax rebate.
11. Prices are rising quickly everywhere.
L
1 2. The January sales start tomorrow.
Maybe I should consider getting one on
credit.
56
Peter Collin Publishing. (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 3: Now read this passage and complete the gaps with one of the words or expressions
from Tasks 1 and 2. You may need to change the form of some of the words.
'Financial advice from a father to a son'
In the play 'Hamlet' by William Shakespeare, a father gives his son some financial advice. 'Neither a
borrower nor a lender be', he says. He is trying to tell his son that he should never
1
money from anyone because it will make it difficult for him to manage his
finances. Likewise he should never give a financial 2
to a friend because he
will probably never see the money again, and will probably lose his friend as well.
The play was written over four hundred years ago, but today many parents would give similar advice to
their children. Imagine the conversation they would have now:
Son:
topic specific vocabulary
Money & finance
Right dad, I'm off to university now.
Father: All right son, but let me give you some sound financial advice before you go.
Son:
Oh come on dad.....
Father: Now listen, this is important. The first thing you should do is to make sure you
balance your 3
- the money you receive from me - and your
4
- the money you spend. If you spend too much, you will
end up with an 5
at the bank. Don't expect me to pay it for you.
Son:
But it's so difficult. Things are so expensive, and the 6
time. 7
is running at about 10%.
Father: I know, but you should try to 8
restaurants. Also, put your money in a good 9
higher rate of 10
11
.
Son:
goes up all the
. Avoid expensive shops and
. They offer a much
than banks. Also, avoid buying things
Why?
Father: Because shops charge you an 12
amount of money to buy things over
a period of time. It's much better to 13
a little bit of money each week
so that when you see something you want, you can buy it outright. Try to wait for the sales, when
shops
offer
huge
14
and
you
can
pick
up
a
15
. And try to get a 16
.
Son:
How do I do that?
Father: Easy. When you buy something, ask the shop if they'll lower the price by, say, 10%. Next, when
you eventually get a job and are earning a good salary, try to 17
the
money in a good company. Buy 18
in government organisations or
19
in private companies.
Son:
OK dad, I've heard enough.
Father: One final piece of advice, son.
Son:
What's that dad?
Father: To thine own self be true.
Son:
You what?
57
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Business and industry
Task 1: Look at sentences 1-16, and replace the words and expressions in bold with a word or
expression in the box which has an opposite meaning.
unskilled labourers • employees/ workers /staff • credit • exports • loss
demand for • bust / recession • shop floor • state-owned industries
private • expenditure • lending • net • take on • retail • white-collar
1.
We have a limited supply of computer base units.
2. Last year, our company made a huge profit
3. Our gross profits are up by almost 150% on last year.
4.
Banks across the country are reporting a sharp drop in borrowing.
5. The company will debit your bank account with £528 each month.
6. The wholesale market has experienced a downturn since
the recession began.
7. The government is encouraging short-term investors to put their
money into the public sector,
8. Private enterprises are under a lot of financial pressure.
9. Skilled workers are demanding a 15% pay rise.
10. If this continues, we will have to lay off members of staff.
11. Blue-collar workers across the country are demanding
improved working conditions.
12. He works for a company which imports camera equipment.
13. A lot of people have benefited from the recent boom in the
electrical industry.
14. The management refuse to compromise on the quality of
their products.
15. Overall revenue is down by almost 15%.
16. A fight broke out in the boardroom over terms and conditions of
employment. (Note: you will have to change the preposition in to on)
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
92
Peter Collin Publishing, (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 2: Match the words and expressions in the first box with a dictionary definition from the
list A - Q below.
1. automation
2. unemployment
3. inflation
4. balance of payments
5, taxation
6. GNP
7. interest rates
8. primary industries
9. secondary industries
10. service industries
11. nationalised industries
12. monopoly
13. output
14. income tax
15. VAT
16. deficit
17. key industries
A. The
.)
B.
percentage
charged
for
borrowing
money.
(The
Bank
Industries involved in the manufacture of goods. (
suplly of raw maerials.)
of
England
has
raised
topic specific vocabulary
Business and industry
rely on the ready
C. The value of goods and services paid for in a country, including income earned in other countries. (Last
year's
was dose to £25 billion.)
D. The amount which a firm, machine or person produces. (The factory has doubled its
in the last six months.)
E. Industries involved in the production of raw materials. (Coal mining is one of the important
.)
F
Installing machinery in place of workers (
machines usually tend to be out of order when you need them most.)
can be a mixed blessing -
G. Industries which do not make products but offer a service such as banking, insurance and transport.
(
have become more important in the last decade.)
H.
The difference in value between a country's imports and exports. (The government is trying to reduce
the
deficit)
I.
The amount by which expenditure is more than receipts in a firm's or country's accounts. (The
company announced a two million pound
.)
J. A system where one person or company supplies all of a product in one area without any competition.
(The state has a
of the tobacco trade.)
K. Industries which were once privately owned, but now belong to the state. (Workers in
are to get a 3% pay rise.)
L.
Lack of work. (The figures for
are rising.)
M. The action of imposing taxes. (Money raised by
services.)
N. The most important industries in a country. (Oil is one of the
essential to the country's economy.)
pays for all government
which are
O. A state of economy where prices and wages are rising to keep pace with each other. (The government
is trying to keep
down below 3%.)
P. A tax on money earned as wages or salary. (She pays
at the lowest rate.)
Q. A tax imposed as a percentage of the invoice value of goods or services. An indirect tax.
(
in Britain currently runs at 17.5%.)
93
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Business and industry
Task 3: Now look at this extract from a business programme and fill in the gaps with one of
the words or expressions from Tasks 1 and 2, In some cases, more than one answer may be
possible. You may need to change some of the word forms.
1
rates are to rise by a further half a percent next month, putting
further
pressure
on
homeowners
2
paying
mortgages.
It will
also
discourage
people
from
money from the high street banks, who are already under a lot
of pressure. Last year, the National Bank was forced to 3
members
of
4
staff
across
'
5
the
country,
adding
_______
to
the
country's
2,000
rapidly
rising
rate
of
.
rose in the last year by almost 6%, despite the government's
pledge to keep price and wage rises no higher than 3%. This has had a negative impact on
6
, since the strong pound coupled with rising prices has made it
almost impossible for foreign companies to buy British goods and services. Especially affected are the
7
producing Pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
8
workers in 9
.
__
across the country are demanding higher 10
industries
. Unions and workers
are negotiating with 11
chiefs for an eight percent rise. This
follows the announcement that the government want more investors to put their money into the
12
__
sector.
13
for
14
home
computers
has
finally
overtaken
the
, making it once again a seller's market. There is now a two-
week waiting list to receive a new computer. This has pushed prices up by almost a third.
Bradford Aerospace Technologies, where overall 15
aircraft parts has dropped
16
by almost
10%
in the
for sales of
last quarter, will shortly become a
industry in a final desperate attempt to keep it open. The
government has promised it will keep on the current workforce.
Bad news too for Ranger Cars, who this week announced a 17
______
of
almost five million pounds. A spokesman for the company blamed high labour costs and the reluctance
by union leaders to approve increased 18
at the firm's factories.
They insist that the installation of new machinery will lead to redundancies.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
94
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2'
Practice Question
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Have you bought anything interesting recently?
How important is money to you?
Do you think you will have lots of money in future?
Would you like to become rich some day?
Do you think it is ok to lend money to friends or family members?
Do you invest your spare money?
Do you think financial literacy is at the high level aross generations?
Describe something you want to buy but can’t afford
How much money is enough?
What problems does money cause in your society?
Do young people nowadays believe in saving money? What conflicts can arise between a
person’s family and a person’s friends?
Describe a small business that you would like to own/open
What challenges and difficulties do people face when they try to open a small business?
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of small businesses compared to large
companies?
How can small businesses benefit the people in their community?
Compare small shops with big international department stores and supermarkets.
What kinds of small business are the most popular in Kazakhstan?
Why do some people open their own business?
What qualities does a small business owner need to have?
How have small businesses changed in recent years in Kazakhstan?
How do you think small businesses will change in the future in Kazakhstan?
Compare owning and running a small business to being an employee in a large company.
Do you like shopping?
Would you describe yourself as a shopoholic? Are you addicted to shopping?
How often do you go on a spending spree?
Wha’s your attitude to bargain hunting?
Have you bought anything interesting recently?
Is it difficult for you to control your spending?
Are you good at saving money?
Do yo this it is ok to lend money to friends or family members?
Why do some parents give money to their children some fortune to spend each week?
Do you agree that schools should teach children how to manage money?
Do you think it is a good idea for children to earn money while studying?
Do you think in today’s society money cannot buy happiness?
What disadvantages do you think a society where the gap between rich and poor is large
has?
Is it possible to end poverty?
Are there many people living below the poverty line in your country?
Do you think that girls are better at saving money than boys?
Vocabulary 9 Science, IT and Languages
analyse / conduct a research / examine closely and scientifically
run, perform, do the test (experiment)
carrying out scientific study to find a cure
discovery / revolution / progress / innovation / success / advance / invention / disclosure
major technological breakthrough is achieved by
Biology: living organisms / physical structure / chemical processes / molecular interactions /
physiological mechanisms / development / evolution
some elements change their chemical composition when mixed with water
Who was the person who found penicillin? Alexander Fleming
chemistry: elements / compounds composed of atoms, molecules and ions
physics: studies matter, its motion and behaviour through space and time / energy and force.
cybernetics / Information Technology (IT/ICT) / digital
control / microchip / gadget / equipment / device
digital native a person born or brought up during the age of digital technology
cutting-edge technology / state of the art technology / up-to date / the latest
outdated system / old-fashioned / antiquated / terrified of modern technology
labour-saving device: dishwasher, stove, Internet-enabled refrigerator / remotely control
boot up / log in / sign up / click on the icon
keyboard / load / e-mail / download / hardware / software / website / printer / monitor
computer crash / re-install the program / back up files / keep hard copy
I am very careful with my privacy settings, especially in wireless hotspots
surf the web / Internet access / social media networks / shop online
hack into the Internet
modern technology tends to become rapidly obsolete so we become more and more a
throw-away society
People are losing physical contact with one another as they become glued to their screens
Emerging technology has the capacity to change our lives in so many ways
Robots and artificial intelligence are both reducing the amount of tedious work required in
a wide range of industries and professions
Technology
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you enjoy using technology?
Stephan: Well … I wouldn’t call myself a techie or a computer buff but I enjoy using computers
… I’d like to find out more about how they work … when my computer crashes I never know
what to do.
Examiner: Do you use the Internet for your studies?
Sophie: Yes … I’d be lost without it … I do lots of video conferencing to practise speaking
and social media like Facebook is a good way to meet up with other students … and I download
podcasts that teach English vocabulary and grammar.
Examiner: Do you have your own computer?
Tania: Yes … I have a Macbook Pro … I use it all the time … for word processing … browsing
websites and catching up with TV programmes I’ve missed.
Part 2-style task
Describe an item of technology you have that is very important. You should say:
• what the technology is
•
when you got it
•
how often you use it
and say how different your daily life would be without it.
Mattie: I don’t have many gadgets … just a computer … a laptop and my mobile phone … but
I’ll talk about my computer as it’s so useful … it’s funny really … 2 years ago I was still learning
to use computers … how to use email … send attachments how to access websites … then I
decided to do a digital editing course for video and photography … and so I bought the laptop
when I started the course … my husband had a desktop PC but it was very slow so I decided to
upgrade to a powerful one because we do a lot of video editing on the course … it’s a highspec laptop … very fast … the latest operating system … it boots up really quickly and it’s fun
to use so it makes working a pleasure … I’ve become a competent computer user now … if I
didn’t have it I daresay I’d have to spend more time at college using their computers … but on
the positive side I suppose I’d read a lot more if I didn’t have it … I probably waste a lot of
time surfing the web … but hopefully I won’t have to be without it …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What do you think are the important things people need to learn when they start using
computers?
Alejandro: Well … there are things like how to use the Internet … how to enter a web
address … how to navigate websites … that kind of thing but it’s also important to know
how to back up your files in case your computer crashes … and all about Internet security.
Examiner: What kind of technological developments have made the biggest impact on our lives?
Faydene: In my lifetime it has to be the Internet of course but I also think wifi has made a huge
difference to how we interact with the Internet … wireless networks at home and public wifi
hotspots mean we can go online easily … access our mail … log into our work intranet and
basically be connected wherever we are.
Examiner: Do computers make it much easier to study?
Jane: Definitely yes … researching information is much easier with the Internet .. you
can bookmark webpages for future reference and writing essays is much easier … being able to
cut and paste sections of text means you can experiment with organisation … so yes …
compared to years ago when you had a pile of books on your desk and a pen and paper … it’s
now much easier.
Definitions
• to access websites/email: to locate
• to back up files: to make a copy of files in case of a computer problem
• to boot up: to start a computer
• to bookmark a webpage: to mark a webpage for future reference
• to browse websites: to look at websites
• a computer buff: an expert computer user
• to crash: to suddenly stop working
• to cut and paste: to move text or images from one place in a document to another place
• a desktop PC: a computer that isn’t portable and remains in situ on a desk
• digital editing: to edit digital materials like audio or video files
• download (podcasts): to save a copy of a file from the internet to your own device
• to enter a web address: to type the address of a website into the address bar of your
browser
• a gadget: a technological tool like a mobile phone or camera
• to go online: to start using the Internet
• high-spec (laptop): powerful computer with top quality components
• Internet security: Internet safety
• intranet: a network of connected computers within an organisation that is not accessible
by unauthorised visitors
• to navigate a website: to find your way around a website
• operating system: the software that tells the computer how to work
• send an attachment: send an email with an accompanying file
• social media: media used to interact with other people such as Facebook or Twitter
• to surf the web: to look at a series of websites one after the other
• a techie: somebody who has an interest in technology
• to upgrade: to obtain a more powerful or feature-rich computer or piece of software
• video conferencing: to see and hear people from different locations using the Internet
• wireless hotspot: a public place where you can access the Internet
• wireless network: a network where users can access the Internet without the use of fixed
cables
• word processing; producing written texts on a computer
TECHNOLOGY and COMMUNICATION
Some people believe that technology has made man more social.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Experts throughout both the developing and developed world have debated whether the
advent of sophisticated modern technology such as mobile phones, laptops and iPad have
helped to enhance and improve people’s social lives or whether the opposite has become
the case. Personally, I strongly advocate the former view. This essay will discuss both sides
using examples from the UK government and Oxford University to demonstrate points and
prove arguments.
On the one hand there is ample, powerful, almost daily evidence that such technology can
be detrimental especially to the younger generation who are more easily affected by it’s
addictive nature and which can result in people feeling more isolated from the society.
The central reason behind this is twofold, firstly, the invention of online social media sites
and apps, such as Twitter and Facebook have reduced crucial face-to-face
interactions dramatically. Through use of these appealing and attractive mediums, people
feel in touch and connected yet lack key social skills and the ability to communicate.
Secondly, dependence on such devices is built up frighteningly easily which may have a
damaging effect on mental health and encourage a sedentary lifestyle. For example,
recent scientific research by the UK government demonstrated that 90% of people in their
30s spend over 20 hours per week on Messenger and similar applications to chat with their
friends instead of meeting up and spending quality time together or doing sport. As a
result, it is conclusively clear that these technology advancements have decreased and
diminished our real life interactions.
On the other hand, although there are significant downsides to technological developments,
its’ multifold advantages cannot be denied. This is largely because the popularity of
technology such as cellphones allows people to connect freely and easily with no
geographical barriers. People are able to share any type of news, information, photos and
opinions with their loved ones whenever and wherever they want therefore keeping a feeling
of proximity and closeness. For example, an extensive study by Oxford University
illustrated that people who work, or study abroad and use applications like Facetime and
WhatsApp to chat with their families, are less likely to experience loneliness and feel out
of the loop than those who do not. Consistent with this line of thinking is that businessmen
are also undoubtedly able to benefit from these advances by holding virtual real time meetings using Skype which may increase the chance of closing business deals without
the need to fly.
From the arguments and examples given I firmly believe that overall communication and
mans’ sociability has been advanced enormously due to the huge technological progress of
the past twenty years and despite some potentially serious health implications which
governments should not fail to address, it is predicted that its popularity will continue to
flourish in the future.
CHILDREN and TECHNOLOGY
Is it good for children to start using computers from an early age and spend long hours on
them? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
In recent years, children, like adults, have become increasingly exposed to computers.
While some child psychologists have claimed that this is a good thing, others have claimed
that it has an overwhelmingly detrimental impact on children. In this essay, I shall draw
upon a number of studies in cognitive science and industrial psychology that reveal the
positive and negative aspects of this phenomenon.
To begin with, there are clearly reasons why computers do not allow children to develop
long attention spans. This is because computers are packed with many supposedly childfriendly games that require minimal levels of concentration in order to be enjoyed. For
example, a study by the New York Child Learning Association found that children who read
from picture books were 50% less likely to get distracted than children who played
educational computer games. Therefore computers almost certainly have a negative impact
on young children.
However, since the world has become heavily reliant on computers, there are also clearly
advantages to exposing children to computers. This is because children with such exposure
will stand a better chance of finding employment. For example, after being interviewed by
Yale psychologists, over 70% of young office workers admitted that they had spent long
hours on computers in their middle and late childhood years. Therefore it is clear that
computer exposure can be beneficial to children.
In conclusion, there are advantages and disadvantages to early computer exposure.
However, if, in the future, the quality of educational gaming is increased, there is good
reason to believe that these negative consequences will fall entirely away.
topic specific vocabulary
Science & technology
Task 1: Replace the words and expressions in bold in sentences 1 - 18 with a word or
expression from the box.
analysed
•
genetic engineering
•
breakthrough
•
molecular biology
a technophobe • safeguards • development • cybernetics • invented
nuclear engineering
a technophile
1.
•
•
combined
innovations
•
•
react
life expectancy
•
•
an experiment
discovered
•
research
The company is carrying out scientific study to find a cure for Aids.
2. The planning and production of the new computer system will take some time.
3. Modern home entertainment systems and other modem inventions are changing everyone's lives.
4.
Some elements change their chemical composition when mixed with water.
5.
The scientists have created a new machine to automate the process.
6. Who was the person who found penicillin?
7. When the food was examined closely and scientifically, it was found to contain bacteria.
8. Ram joined together with CO2 gases produces acid rain.
9.
Ron is terrified of modern technology.
10. Geoff is very interested in modem technology.
11. Protection against accidents in this laboratory are minimal.
12. Scientists conducted a scientific test to see how people react to different smells.
13. Brian is studying the techniques used to change the genetic composition of a cell so as to change
certain characteristics which can be inherited.
14. Sarah is studying the things which form the structure of living matter.
15. Christine is studying now information is communicated in machines and electronic devices in
comparison with how it is communicated in the brain and nervous system.
16. Neil is studying the different ways of extracting and controlling energy from atomic particles.
17. There has been a sudden success in the search for a cure for cancer.
18. The number of years a person is likely to live has increased a great deal thanks to modern medicine
and technology.
70
Peter Collin Publishing. 6 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 2: Read this description of a computer. Unfortunately, the person who is describing
it is not very familiar with their computer vocabulary and cannot remember all the words.
Help them by using the appropriate word or expression in the box to give a more scientific
definition of their explanation.
log
on
•
hardware
mouse
•
•
keyboard
crashed
•
»
load
•
software
base unit / disk drive
•
•
e-mail
•
download
the Internet
web site
•
•
printer
scanner
•
monitor
topic specific vocabulary
Science & technology
OK, here's my new computer. As you can see, there are five main parts. Now this large box with
the slots and sliding disc carrier is the most important part (1)
the, eh, stuff that makes the computer work (2)
(3)
. It carries all
. You can also put in
your own games and other things (4)
it there is the thing that looks like a small television (5)_
. Next to
so that you can see
what the computer is doing. To the right of that, there is the machine that lets you make black and white
or colour copies of the documents that you create on the computer (6)
. You
can control the computer by using that rectangular flat thing with all the letters and numbers on
(7
) or that funny little object with the long lead which you can move across
your desk (8
). The large flat thing to the left of the computer is something
you can use to make copies of your photographs or other documents onto the computer, a bit like a
photocopier (9)
.
It's a very useful machine, of course. Once you, eh, get it up and running (10)
,
you can do lots of things on it. You can create documents, play games or get information from this
fantastic thing that links computers from around the world (11)
. A lot of
companies and organizations have their own special computer page (12)
which you can look at, and you can transfer the information (13)
to your own
computer files. Or, if you like, you can send messages to other people with computers by using this special
facility called, eh, um, something I can't remember (14)
Unfortunately, I can't let you use it as it stopped working (15)
.
last night. I
think I must have done something wrong, but I can't imagine what. I've got a typewriter you can borrow
if you like.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
71
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Science & technology
Task 3: Now look at this essay and fill in the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2. In some cases, more than one answer may be possible. You may need to change
some of the word forms.
Technology has come a long way in the last fifty years, and our lives have become better as a result. Or
have they?
The second half of the twentieth century saw more changes than in the previous two hundred years.
Penicillin has already been 1
many
remarkable
2
and used to treat infections; there have been
advances
in
medicine
that
have
helped
to
increase
our
average
way beyond that of our ancestors. Incredible 3
such as television have changed the way we spend our leisure hours. Perhaps the most important
4
, however, has been the microchip. Nobody could have imagined, when it
was first 5
, that within a matter of years, this tiny piece of silicon and circuitry
would be found in almost every household object from the kettle to the video recorder. And nobody
could have predicted the sudden proliferation of computers that would completely change our lives,
allowing us to access information from the other side of the world via the 6
or send messages around the world by 7
Meanwhile, 8
at the touch of a button.
into other aspects of information technology is making it
easier and cheaper for us to talk to friends and relations around the world. Good news for
9
who
10
love
modern
technology,
bad
news
for
the
who would prefer to hide from these modern miracles.
But everything has a price. The development of 11
led to mass automation
in factories, which in turn led to millions losing their jobs. The genius of Einstein led to the horrors of the
atomic bomb and the dangerous uncertainties of 12
(we hear of accidents
and mishaps at nuclear power stations around the world, where 13
accidents were inadequate). The relatively new science of 14
to prevent
has been seen as
a major step forward, but putting modified foods onto the market before scientists had properly
15
them was perhaps one of the most irresponsible decisions of the 1990s.
Meanwhile, pharmaceutical companies continue to 16
on animals, a move
that many consider to be cruel and unnecessary.
Of course we all rely on modern science and technology to improve our lives. However, we need to
make sure that we can control it before it controls us.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
72
Peter Collin Publishing. (c) 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Practice Questions
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Are you interested in science?
What was your favourite science subject at school? Biology? Physics? Chemistry? Why?
Do you watch scientific TV programs? Why?
Do you enjoy using technology?
Do you use the Internet for your studies/work?
Do you have your own computer?
Are you interested in robots? Why?
Is it good to have a robot at home?
Would you want to take a car where a robot is the driver?
Talk about some technology that you have started using fairly recently?
Describe a piece of equipment in your household (not a computer) which you find useful
Describe a science subject (such as chemistry, biology, math) that you studied at school
Describe a scientific development that has benefited mankind
Some people use the Internet to search for solutions to their medical problems. Is it
positive or negative development?
Some people believe that it’s not necessary to have internet access to live a full life. What
is your opinion?
It is often claimed that electronic devices will soon replace paper books. Do you agree?
Di you think scientific discoveries can have some positive and negative effects at the same
time?
Do you use internet much during the day?
What do you usually do on the internet?
What are some of the advantages of internet?
What according to you are the disadvantages of Internet?
Do people in your country use internet a lot?
Do you do any shopping on internet?
Do you send and receive email regularly?
Who do you usually communicate with?
How often do you check your email?
Do you think writing emails has strengthened or weakened people’s writing skills?
What are some of the disadvantages of emails?
What impact does social media have on teenagers?
Do you use social media apps?
Do you alter your photos before posting?
Does social media have a positive or negative affect on communicative skills?
What modern technological devices are most common in your country?
Do you think modern technology is useful?
Do you think people rely too much on technology?
Do you think men and women view technological devices differently?
Why do you think people spend so much money buying the latest devices?
What is the most impactful piece of technology in our lives?
How computers affect our everyday life?
How effective is the use of computers in the classroom?
10 Workplace
Vocabulary 12
unemployed / unskilled / semi-skilled
profession / occupation / specialty / major
Occupation status: employer / employee
freelancer / self-employed / flexible working hours
white-collar (middle class) - performing professional duties, often in an office setting:
Applications Software developer / accountant and auditor / market research analyst etc.
blue-collar (working class) - involving manual labor and compensation by an hourly wage
manufacturing industry / goods and services
part-time / full-time / overtime (extra hours) / unsocial hours (late at night, early morning)
salary / wage (minimum wage) / raise / fixed income
interviewee / interviewer
recruit / hire a candidate / applicant
diligent / hard-working / industrious / productive / workaholic / skilled
demanding / laborious / heavy / difficult / labour-intensive
adverse working conditions / incentive (a thing that motivates) / stimulus
perks / benefits and rewards / pension contributions / sickness benefit / dividends
job satisfaction / job security (steady job) / promotion
the annual increment - годовая прибавка
repetitive strain injury (RSI) - the pain felt in muscles, nerves and tendons caused by
repetitive movement and overuse.
sick building syndrome - a condition affecting office workers, typically marked by
headaches and respiratory problems, attributed to unhealthy or stressful factors in the
working environment such as poor ventilation
leave / retirement / resign
Laid off or displaced workers - those have lost or left their jobs because their employer has
closed or moved, there was insufficient work for them to do, or their position or shift was
abolished.
Downsizing in a company is defined to involve the reduction of employees in a workforce.
fire / dismiss a worker
Work
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What do you do?
Sasha: I do a job-share with a friend in a boutique … I enjoy it … 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 …
Examiner: Do you have any career plans yet?
Carly: Yes … I’d like to be my own boss one day … I’m interested in programming and I’d like
to create apps for myself or for other companies … I know being self-employed would be a
challenge but the idea of doing a nine-to-five job doesn’t appeal to me at all …
Examiner: What do you see yourself doing in 10 years time?
Marie: I’d hope to be working … not a high-powered job … but I’m quite a creative person
so something where I can work with my hands would be nice … as long as I’m not stuck
behind a desk doing something boring in a dead-end job I’ll be happy …
Part 2-style task
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
and say why you would enjoy this job in particular.
Max: 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 whether there are
many full-time jobs I don’t know … I’m sure a lot of parks rely on voluntary work so it might
not be easy … and it 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 … and I think I’d be good at it as well … I’d love to work with animals 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 …
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: If there are a limited number of jobs available who should be given priority, young
people or older people with more experience?
Anna: 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
Examiner: What are some of the important things a candidate should find out before accepting a
job?
Ali: 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 … if you’re
thinking of having children … and what the situation is regarding sick leave … that kind of thing
…
Examiner: What are the advantages of having your own business rather than working for
someone else?
Julie: Well … unfortunately being an employee at the moment is very stressful … people have
very heavy workloads … they’re always under pressure to meet deadlines … running your
own business isn’t easy … but I do think it would be far more satisfying …
Definitions
• to be called for an interview: to be invited to attend an interview
• to be your own boss: to have your own business
• a dead-end job: a job with no promotional opportunities
• to do a job-share: to share the weekly hours of work with another person
• a good team player: somebody who can work well with other people
• full-time: the number of hours that people usually work in a complete week
• a heavy workload: to have a lot of work to do
• a high-powered job: an important or powerful job
• holiday entitlement: the number of days holiday allowed
• job satisfaction: the feeling of enjoying a job
• manual work: work that requires physical activity
• maternity leave: time off work given to a woman about to have a baby
• to meet a deadline: to finish a job by an agreed time
• a nine-to-five job: a normal job that consists of an 8 hour day (approximately)
• one of the perks of the job: an extra benefit you get from a job
• part-time: working less than full-time
• to run your own business: see ‘to be your own boss’
• to be self-employed: see ‘to be your own boss’
• sick leave: time allowed off work when sick
• to be stuck behind a desk: to be unhappy in an office job
• to be/get stuck in a rut: to be in a boring job that is hard to leave
• to take early retirement: to retire early (retire: to reach an age when you are allowed to stop
working for a living)
• temporary work: work done for a limited time only
• voluntary work: to work without pay
• to be well paid: to earn a good salary
• working conditions: the hours, salary and other entitlements that comes with the job
• to work with your hands: to do manual work
WORK and SCHEDULE
Many employers are now offering their employees the option to work from home. As a
result, employees will have much more flexible working hours in the future. Is this a positive
or negative development?
In the modern world place, many workers are being given the option to undertake the job
from home, this leading to the managing of one’s own time. In my opinion, I believe that
this is a positive development. Firstly, this essay will discuss, how being able to work away
from the confinement of an office can bring positive elements into a worker’s life.
Secondly, it will discuss the positive impact this may have on a person when no longer
involved in the day to day activities happening in the office environment.
Firstly, having the option to work from home, can have a positive impact on any
employee’s schedule. This is especially so if the person has children or other dependants
because working long hours is not always possible depending on your lifestyle. Therefore, it
allows the employee to manage their own schedule while ensuring that they maintain a
work-life balance, working from wherever they are in the world. Having flexible working
hours means that collecting children from school, spending time travelling and being able
to attend non-work related appointments becomes much easier. For example, Google
allows senior engineers to work remotely, using flexible hours for those who travel a lot or
have the need to work with little interruptions.
Similarly, employees can develop better mental health when they are removed from the
everyday office environment. When working away from the office, the individual may feel
like they can work at their own pace, take breaks when needed and deal with less stress.
Working for long hours each day in an office environment with co-workers and
management can seriously impact a person’s mental health, leading to frustration,
depression and burnout. For instance, according to an article published in the New York
Times in 2016, survey of people who work online, from home in the state of New York
showed that 94% of people said they had developed overall better health.
In conclusion, in my view, there are more positive elements than negative, as there are clear
benefits to individuals who have the opportunity to work from home, including having a
flexible schedule. However, those working away from the office environment should also
manage their work/life balance, so they take care of their mental health.
Task 1: How would you generally feel, happy
or unhappy
following situations. Use the words in bold to help you decide.
1.
The company you work for is well-known for its yob security.
2.
You were suddenly made redundant.
, if you were in the
3. You received a promotion.
4.
You were given an increment
topic specific vocabulary
Work
5. You worked unsociable hours.
6. You had a steady job.
1. You had adverse working conditions.
8.
You suddenly found yourself unemployed.
9.
You took time off work because of repetitive strain injury.
10. The office where you work has sick building syndrome.
11. You receive regular perks as part of your job.
12. Somebody called you a workaholic.
13. Your company doesn't give you many incentives.
14. Your boss announces that there is going to be some downsizing of the workforce.
15. Your work didn't offer much job satisfaction.
16. Your company has a generous incentive scheme.
17. You receive a commission for the work you have done.
18. You receive support from a union.
19. You were under stress.
20. You were forced to resign.
21. You received a cut in your salary.
22. Your company gave you sickness benefit.
23. You found your job very demanding.
53
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
topic specific vocabulary
Work
Task 2: Match sentences 1-6 in box A with one of the sentences A-F in box B, Use the words
in bold to help you.
Box A.
1 . Samantha is the assistant manager of a bank and she works from 8.30 to 5.30 every day.
2. Tracy works on the production line of a factory which makes cars. She uses a machine to spray
paint onto the finished car parts.
3. Jane works for herself. She is a photographer. She works every day for about eight or nine
hours.
4.
Jeanette is a cleaner for a company in Birmingham, but she only works there for about three
or four hours a day.
5.
Claire has a powerful job in the personnel office of a large multinational company. She is
responsible for employing new people and getting rid of those that the company doesn't want
to employ anymore.
6.
Marie works in the finance department of an international college in Oxford.
A. She is a semi-skilled blue-collar worker in a manufacturing industry.
B. She is a self-employed and works full-time. She likes to describe herself as freelance.
C
She is responsible for hiring and firing.
D. She calculates the wages, salaries, pension contributions and medical insurance contributions
of all the staff.
E. She is a full-time white-collar worker in a service industry.
F. She is an unskilled part-time employee.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
54
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, sec the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Task 3: Now read this essay and complete the gaps with one of the words or expressions from
Tasks 1 and 2. You may need to change the form of some of the words.
'Some people live to work, and others work to live. In most cases, this depends on the job
they have and the conditions under which they are employed. In your opinion, what are the
elements that make a job worthwhile?'
In answering this question, I would like to look first at the elements that combine to make a job
undesirable. By avoiding such factors, potential 1
are more likely to find a job
that is more worthwhile, and by doing so, hope to achieve happiness in their work.
First of all, it doesn't matter if you are an 2
3
worker cleaning the floor, a
4
5
worker on a production line in one of the
, or a 6
other 7
topic specific vocabulary
Work
worker in a bank, shop or one of the
: if you lack 8
_
, with the knowledge that
you might lose your job at any time, you will never feel happy. Everybody would like a
9
in which he or she is guaranteed work. Nowadays, however, companies have
a high turnover of staff, 10
new staff and 11
others on a weekly basis. Such companies are not popular with their workers.
The same can be said of a job in which you are put under a lot of 12
worry, a job which is so 13
14
and
that it takes over your life, a job where you work
and so never get to see your family or friends, or a physical job in which
you do the same thing every day and end up with the industrial disease that is always in the papers
nowadays - 1 5
.
With all these negative factors, it would be difficult to believe that there are any elements that make a
job worthwhile. Money is, of course, the prime motivator, and everybody wants a good
16
of
. But of course that is not all. The chance of 17
being
18
given
a
better
position
in
a
company,
is
a
motivating
,
factor.
such as a free lunch or a company car, an 19
scheme to make you work hard such as a regular 20
inflation, 21
Likewise,
___^_
above the rate of
in case you fall ill and a company 22
scheme so that you have some money when you retire all combine to make a job worthwhile.
Unfortunately, it is not always easy to find all of these. There is, however, an alternative. Forget the office
and the factory floor and become 23
and work for yourself. Your future may
not be secure, but at least you will be happy.
Don't forget to keep a record of the words and expressions that you have learnt, review
your notes from time to time and try to use new vocabulary items whenever possible.
55
Peter Collin Publishing. © 2001. For reference, see the English Dictionary for Students (1-901659-06-2)
Practice Questions
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Describe a job you consider highly important?
What different information should you put in a CV?
Are there lots of people who do the same type of job in Almaty?
What was your first day at work like?
What responsibilities do you have at work?
Would you like to change your job in the future?
What career advice should be given to young people?
Is it a good idea to leave a secure job in order to pursue a dream?
Describe the company or organization you work for.
What should you do to make a good impression at a job interview?
What do you like about your job?
What do you dislike about your job?
Is it easier o change jobs now than in the past?
What would be your ideal job?
Describe the job you would most like to have?
Which jobs are the most respected in your country?
Some people say it’s better to work for yourself than be employed by a company. What’s
your view?
What changes in employment have there been in recent years in your country?
What things make an office comfortable to work in?
Why do some people prefer to work outdoors?
Do you agree that the building people work in, is more important than the colleagues they
work with?
What would life be like if people didn’t have to work?
Are all jobs of equal importance?
Why do you think some people become workaholics?
What are the Advantages of Working under Pressure?
Does it have any disadvantages also?
What is the Importance of Having Days Off?
What is the Best Way through Which an Employee can be Compensated for Working
Extra Hours or Days?
Do you Think that Technology Reduces Work Pressures Nowadays?
Describe a workplace you have worked in or know about.
Describe your idea about a perfect work environment.
Describe a positive work environment you know about.
Describe a company you would like to work for.
Describe a kind of job you have been engaged in
Do you have any career plan?
What’s your daily routine on a weekday?
What job are you going to apply for in the future?
Do you consider it important to have a career? Why?
Would you like to work full-time, part-time or flextime?