TOEFL SPEAKING

ADVANCED

5th Edition

1
Table of Cont ent s

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I can be reached by using the following:

Public Mailbox: tfc1100@126.com/ps:123456

This is where you can find most of our course materials,
including audio files for the integrated questions, practice
questions, useful books, TOEFL exam related softwares,
and many other materials that are contributed by others
just like you. And you are welcomed to add anything to it
to help your fellow students!

Email: tengda@gmail.com
This is the fastest and easiest way to get in touch with me.
You can also send your sample response or, even better,
your recordings, via email so I can take a look at them for
you.

: speaking
This is where I post lots of materials that are related to
TOEFL exam, English learning tip, but most of all, fun stuff
that Id like to share with people. Its also a great gateway
for you to find many of the fabulous teachers at New
Oriental from my follow list.

! Independent Tasks

1. Speaking (Free-choice response)

2. Speaking (Paired-choice response)

! Integrated Tasks Part I

3. Reading--Listening (Campus-life related)--Speaking

4. Reading--Listening (Academic related)--Speaking

! Integrated Tasks Part II

5. Listening (Campus-life related)--Speaking

6. Listening (Academic related)--Speaking

Task Type Task Description

1. Personal Preference Important people or places; event or activities; favorite

movies, food, books, etc.

2. Choice Personal choice between two contrasting behaviors or

courses of action. (watch movies at home or in the
theater?)

3. Campus Situation: Fit A notice or announcement (75~100 words) Presents a

and Explain campus related issue
A listening passage (150~180 words) commenting on
the issue
Test takers are asked to summarize the speakers
opinion within the context of the notice or announcement

4. L e c t u r e : G e n e r a l / A reading passage broadly defines a term, process, or

Specific idea from an academic subject.
Part of a lecture (150~220 words) provides examples
and specific information to illustrate the term, process or
idea from the reading passage

5. Campus Situation: The listening passage (180~220 words) is a

Problem/Solution conversation about a student-related problem and two
possible solutions.
Demonstrate understanding of the problem and to
express an opinion about solving the problem

6. Lecture: Summary Part of a lecture (230~280 words) that explains a term or

concept and gives concrete example to illustrate it.
Summarize the lecture and demonstrate an
understanding of how the examples relate to the overall
topic.

T1 N/A N/A 15 45

T2 N/A N/A 15 45

T3 45 0:50~0:60 30 60

T4 45 1:20~1:50 30 60

T5 N/A 1:00~1:30 20 60

T6 N/A 2:00~2:20 20 60

1. Delivery:
How clearly do you speak English (good pronunciation, natural pacing, and natural
initiation patterns).

2. Language Use:
How effectively you use grammar and vocabulary to convey your ideas.

3. Topic Development:
How fully you answer the questions and how coherently you present your ideas.

Delivery Language Use Topic Development

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Delivery Language Use Topic Development

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Answer to question The student answers the question throughly

Comprehensibility The student can be understood clearly

Organization The response is well organized and developed

Fluency The speech is generally fluent

4
Pronunciation The student generally has good pronunciation

Grammar The student uses advanced grammatical structure with

a high degree of accuracy

Vocabulary The student uses advanced grammatical structure with

a high degree of accuracy
Excellent4 / Good3 / Fair2 / Pass1 / Fail0

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25-28 3.5-4

20-24 3-3.4

14-19 2.0-2.9

5-13 1.0-1.9

5-0 1.0-0

13


[u] full look book

[u] fool loo boo

[i] big lip z ip live r ic h

[i] beat leap zee leave re a ch

[ei] hey day age stay play way

[ai] I eye rice ice like life

[i] boy toy enjoy choice oil point

[a] out now hour how about found

[v] vote voice very above seven five

[w] we week water work woman why

[] think thin both month health tooth

[] these this mother brother other the

[l] child smile file ill will bell

[s] nice likes books notice stress is

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 Give the students as much time as they need for
they have to apply their knowledge of the basic
emphasis pattern. Allow some discussion before
giving the answer. Here is the answer:

(a)me cha nic A PAper.

(b)en gi neer He can READ.
Pronunciation
(c)ma na ger HERE you are.
(d)pho to gra pher
fourth editi
English Pron
photograph compe a p p l rhythm
t e 3: Recognizing the stress-timed
Stage y
in English
photography competition application In picture (A), th
At this stage, we require the students to
differentiate the Chinese rhythm from English combination of ad
photographic compet t o r Have the studentsa work
irhythm. pplicant
in small groups. in hand. In picture
Look at the following pictures carefully. Can they soldiers marching
tell which of the following illustrations represents answer is (A). All
English rhythm? Picture (A) or (B)? with the knowled
two-stage instructi
represent stresse
me cha nic unstressed syllable
high_____________________________ English rhythm; ho
Picture (A) represent syllable
medium________cha_______________ syllables are stresse
low_____me_____________nic_______
As a final r
instruction of the s
en gi neer conclude the lesso
conventionally, the
high_____________________________ as stress-timed, wh
medium_________________________ However, Chinese
low______________________________ almost one beat per

Conclusion
ma na ger Pronunciation is important.
high_____________________________
medium__________________________
with some words they have already known:
low______________________________
benefit from consc
with some
(a) words
me cha nic they have already known: Picture(B)
(b) en gi neer we teach our st
(c) ma(a)pho
nametochagra
ger nic pher Picture(B) instruction to hel
(b) toen
(d) pho gi pher
gra neer English rhythm.
high_____________________________
(c) ma na ger includes a discov
medium__________________________
(d) pho
Give the students to gratime
as much pheras they need for English rhythm, t
low______________________________
they have to apply their knowledge of the basic English rhythm,
Givepattern.
emphasis the students
Allowassomemuchdiscussion
time as they need for
before stress-timed rhyth
givingthey have toHere
the answer. apply their
is the knowledge of the basic
answer: aural, visual, and
emphasis pattern. Allow some discussion before
giving the answer. Here is the answer:
(a)me cha nic A PAper. 4
Pronunciation is important.
(b)en gi neer He can READ.
(a)me cha nic A PAper.
(c)ma na ger HERE you are. Pronunciation is important.
(b)en gi neer He can READ.

(d)pho(c)ma
to granapher
ger HERE you are.
(d)pho to gra pher fourth edition of Manual of American
Stage 3: Recognizing the stress-timed rhythm English Pronunciation , 1985)
fourth edition of Manual of American
in English
Stage 3: Recognizing the stress-timed rhythm English Pronunciation , 1985)
in English
At this stage, we require the students to In picture (A), the rhythm is represented by a
differentiate the Chinese rhythm from English combination of adults and children, holding hand
At the
thisstudents
stage, work
we require In In
students toin hand.
thegroups. picture
picture(A),
(B),the
the rhythm
rhythm is consisted
represented of by a
rhythm. Have in small
differentiate the pictures
Chinesecarefully.
rhythm Canfromthey 15
English combination
soldiers marching of adults
along theand children,
road. holding
Clearly, the hand
Look at the following
rhythm. Have the students work in small groups.answerinishand.
(A). In
Allpicture
of the (B), the rhythm
students can getisitconsisted
right of
tell which of the following illustrations represents
soldiers marching along the road. Clearly, the
EnglishLook at the Picture
rhythm? following or (B)? carefully. Can theywith the knowledge acquired from the above
(A)pictures
tell which of the following illustrations representstwo-stage answer is (A). All
instruction. of in
Yes, thepicture
students(A),
canadults
get it right
with the
represent knowledge
stressed acquired
syllables, and from the above
children
as it is, half an hour, my pens out
of ink, not at all, first of all, once in
a week, rush hour, travel agent,
pull over, start over, one out of
five, good enough, in addition

hurry up, just do it, see us, I am,

he is, study English, carry it, three
hours, too easy

[h]
tell him, show him, sell her a book,
my sisters house, give her, inform
him

sit down, get ready, that child, set

to, get back, independent task

16


My sister is a teacher, he teaches high school English

My sister is a teacher, she teaches high school English

She is his wife, he is her husband.

He is his wife, she is her husband.

He like going to the movies.

He likes going to the movies.

I take my wife out for dinner last night.

I took my wife out for dinner last night.
If I have a million dollars, I will travel the entire world.
If I had a million dollars, I will travel the entire world.

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 TOEFL iBT Speaking

TASK 1
Example The following sample question consists of an announcement of a universitys
decision to increase tuition and a discussion between students about whether the
increase is justified. This example shows how a question of this type will be pre-
sented to you on your computer.

Characteristic
Describe

You will hear:

P.O.P.E: People, Object, Place, Even Narrator

In this question you will read a short passage about a campus situation and then listen
to a talk on the same topic. You will then answer a question using information from
Teacher Things that you: City Memory
both the reading passage and the talk. After you hear the question, you will have 30
seconds to prepare your response and 60 seconds to speak.

Family members Like Country

Then you will hear this: Festival
Narrator
Public figure Dislike TouristCityspot
University is planning toHoliday
increase tuition and fees. Read the announcement about
the increase from the president of City University.
Successful person Are interest in Landmark Key point in life
You will have 45 seconds to read the announcement. Begin reading now.

Celebrity Use very often Place in the city Party

Announcement from the President
The university has decided to increase tuition and fees for all students by approxi-
Fictional character Live with Place at home Graduation
mately 8% next semester. For the past 5 years, the tuition and fees have remained
the same, but it is necessary to increase them now for several reasons. The univer-
Someone youd like Work with Place at
sityschool Family
has many more students activity
than we had five years ago, and we must hire addi-
tional professors to teach these students. We have also made a new commitment to
to meet Play with Place research
to eat/shop/ Sport
and technology and will be renovating and upgrading our laboratory facil-
ities to better meet our students needs.

Study with live Hobby

Entertain with Public domain Historical moment
Pets and animal 172 Current news

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 will make your description informative and your reasons comprehensible.
should not rely on them too much in giving your answer.
Tip
The question will be read aloud by a narrator and will remain on the screen
When giving
throughout the time you descriptions, try to avoid
are giving yourpresenting
response.long lists since this will reduce the
time you have available to elaborate on the rest of your response.

Example The following example

After you areshows
presentedhow a question
with the question, youof this
will havetype will toappear
15 seconds prepare on your
an answer. You may want to jot down a few brief notes about what you will want
computer screen.
to say, but you should not try to write out a full and complete answer. There will
not be enough time for you to do that, and raters want to know how well you can
speak in response to a question, not how well you can read aloud from something
1. Chooseyou
a teacher you admire
have written. If you do and explain
jot down noteswhy you
during theadmire himtime,
preparation or her.
you Please
includeshould
specific
not examples
rely on them and details
too much in your
in giving your explanation.
answer.
The question will be read aloud by a narrator and will remain on the screen
throughout the time you are giving your response.

Example ! The following example shows how a question of this type will appear on your
computer screen.
Preparation Time: 15 Seconds
Response Time: 45 Seconds
1. Choose a teacher you admire and explain why you admire him or her. Please
include specific examples and details in your explanation.

You will be told when to begin to prepare your response and when to begin
Preparation Time: 15 Seconds
speaking. After the question is read, a Preparation
Response Time: 45 Seconds
Time clock will appear below
the question and begin to count down from 15 seconds (00:00:15). At the end of
15 seconds you will hear a short beep. After the beep, the clock will change to
!
read Response Time
You will beand
told will
when begin
to beginto to count
prepare down fromand
your response 45 when
seconds (00:00:45).
to begin
speaking. After the question is read, a Preparation Time clock
When the response time has ended, recording will stop and a new screen will will appear below
the question and begin to count down from 15 seconds (00:00:15). At the end of
appear alerting you that
15 seconds thehear
you will response timeAfter
a short beep. hastheended.
beep, the clock will change to
read Response Time and will begin to count down from 45 seconds (00:00:45).
When the response time has ended, recording will stop and a new screen will
appear alerting you that the response
T: Mr time
Wanghas ended. 167
S: 1 positive
167
Always smile, sees good in us
2 devoted
Well prepared for class

First reason is, second, thats why

I admire my high school math teacher Mr. Wang for two

reasons. First of all, he is a very positive person. There
is always a big smile on his face. Second, he is fully
devoted to students. We never fail to find him during his
office hour, and he can answer our questions throughly
every single time.

17

19

A:

B:

Person
1. Describe a family member that means the most to you, please give examples
and details in your explanation.

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 Answer: My mother is the family member that means the
most to me for two reasons. First, she is a good listener who
My mom always pays attention to what I have to say, that makes her
Good listener the person who knows me the best in the family. And also,
attention, encourage she has a good manner. Ive learned from her how to treat
Well mannered others around me with dignity and respect since I was young,
Threat others well, thanks to her I made many good friends in my life. Thats why
role model my mom means the most to me in my family.

2. What is the most important characteristics a good teacher must have, please
give examples and details in your explanation.

Answer: The most important characteristics a good teacher

must have are patient and creativity. Only when a teacher is
Patient patient, can he take the time to explain something to students
Over and over again over and over again, it also takes some patient to introduce
Creative new ideas to students and explain them in details. Creativity is
Fun lesson plan and also very important, because to be a great teacher, you have
project to be ready to develop custom, creative lesson plans and
projects, so students can be interested in what you teach.

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3. Describe a good quality of a friend, give examples and details in you

explanation.

Answer: A good friend is some one whos honest and

Good friend supportive of me and my goals. First, A good friend always
Honest tries to be clear about his intentions. This means that he tries
accurate picture, to present an accurate picture of different situations. When
things go wrong something doesn't seem right, he will let me know. Also, A
really good friend knows me well and is willing to help me
Supportive
become the person I want to be. They won't try to change who
Knows me well, wont
I am or drag me into situations that make me uncomfortable.
drag me down

Object (tangible, intangible)

1. Describe a book that you believe is the most useful to you, give examples and
details in your explanation.

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 Answer: The most useful book to me is encyclopedia. First of
all, It contains a wide range of knowledges covering almost
Encyclopedia
every field. For example, when I want to know about American
Wild range History, I can just turn to the history chapter for help. Second,
A m e r i c a n h i s t o r y, it can be super handy when I need to check some quick facts
history section for my paper. For example, when I have to mention the
Handy population of India in my Geography essay, I can easily find it
Population of India, in the book, which saves me tons of time so I can focus on my
quick reference assignment.

2. Q: What game do you enjoy playing? Describe the game and explain why you
like to play it.

Answer: The game I enjoy playing the most is Monopoly. It is a turn

based board game, the goal of the game is to bankrupt other players
Monopoly
and gain as much wealth as possible. The first reason I like playing
Classic game this game is that this is such a classic game, since its introduction in
1933, Billions of player 1933, it is played by more than a billion people all over the world and
Surprise has been popular ever since. The second reason is the element of
Real life like surprise. Very much like when you have your highs and lows in real
Fun life, you never know what youll get till the dices stop rolling. Finally,
Close friends playing the game with my close friends can be so exciting, we would
Laughter poke fun at each other and the laughter lasts for hours.

23


3. Which subject do you want to learn more about? Please give examples and
details in your explanation

Answer: For me, the subject I want to learn more about is Geology.
One reason is by learning Geology I can get a better understanding
Geology
of how everything works in our eco system on earth. For example,
Understanding of eco system what causes earth quake, and how snow storms form. Another
Earth quake reason is I travel a lot. With more knowledge of the power of nature,
Snow storm I can appreciate the wilderness even more. And that will make
Travel everyone of my adventure more meaningful and enjoyable, also I
Appreciate wilderness have more to talk about with my friends when we explore our natural
Meaningful adventure world. That is why I find Geology fascinating and would like to learn
More to talk about more about it.

4. What is the most important gift that you have ever received? Please give
examples and details in your explanation

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 Answer: The most important gift I have ever received is a film
camera from my dad. I got it in the first year of my junior high school.
Camera from dad It was an Olympus OM10 film camera. I took it everywhere with me
What kind, when to take pictures of whats interesting in my life. It is how I learned to
Olympus, high school find beauty in the most unlikely places. Many years later I went to art
How it changed me school and became a photographer. I have handled countless
Begin learning different camera equipments though out the years, but the old
Art school later on Olympus OM10 had always remain the most special to me. Not only
Importance because it was my first camera ever, it also brings back many
Most special treasures in my memory. I thank my dad for giving me that camera
Memories till this very day, and this camera is the single most important gift I
have ever received in my life.

5. What is a skill you do not have but would like to learn? Please give examples
and details in your explanation

Playing piano Answer: The skill I dont have but would like to learn the most is playing
Dream the piano. First of all, I have always wanted to learn playing an
Sounds good instrument since I was a kid, and the piano is my favorite instrument. I
Best instrument love the sound of it and I think it is the most capable instrument to
Piano CDs express complex human emotions. I have a large piano CD collection
that I listen to almost every day. Second, my family couldnt afford a
Before/ after
piano nor had the room for one when I was young. But since I am more
Cant afford one
successful now, I finally have the time and money to buy one and learn
before
how to play it.
Can afford one now
Wife can teach me

25


6. Q: What kind of reading material such as novels, magazines, or poetry do you

mostly like to read and why?

Answer: I enjoy reading magazines the most. First of all, magazines are
visually intriguing. I find the all the photographs in the magazines
Magazine
amazing to look at. And when I see a photograph that I love, I can take
visual that page out and put it in my scrap book. Second reason I like reading
Photograph, keep magazines is that they have the most interesting page layouts
them comparing to other books. That makes magazines fun to read. Finally, I
Page layout am studying Advertising in school. There are countless high quality
Fun to read advertisements in the magazines, some people may find them
Help my school work annoying, but they work perfectly for me, I can get many inspirations
Inspiration from them.

7. What is your favorite book, please give details and example in your response.

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 Answer: Harry Potter is the book thats pretty important to me. First of all, its the first book Ive
read in English. I had a great time learning English from it because the story is fun to read. I get
bored easily reading my English text books, and usually fall asleep within half an hour. But when I
read HP, I can go all day long. Second, the book taught me what true friendship is. For example,
Ron never gives up on Harry or abandons him no matter how difficult the situation gets, and they
can trust each other with their lives. I wish I have a friend like that in my life.

8. What characteristics of a house or an apartment do you think are the most

important? Please include specific example and details in your explanation.

Answer: First, a decent apartment or house should be big enough for all
Roomy my needs. For example, the living rooms large enough so I can invite all
Living room, my friends over to party. The kitchens nice and big and have all the space
kitchen, bathroom I need to enjoy cooking. The bathrooms large enough to fit a bathtub so I
can take a warm bath before going to bed. Also, the location is pretty
Location
important as well. Itd be great if theres a grocery store near by where I
Grocery store,
can buy food. Its a big plus if theres a subway station or bus station
bus station, train
nearby so I dont have to walk too far every morning like I do now.
or subway station

27


Place
1. Choose a place you go to often that is important to you and explain why it is
important.

A: The zoo is a place I go to often that is important to me for a couple of reasons. First of all, I love to
learn about animals and nature. I find all the animals fascinating to look at, and I get to learn new
knowledge about them each time I visit the zoo. There are these tags in front of all the display about the
animal inside, I like the fact that I can study the animal while being able to look at them up close. Its way
better than reading about them from text books. Secondly, I like to take pictures of the animals. For
example, monkeys are almost as expressive as us human, If you pay attention, you can see many
emotions on their face. Be it happy, anger, bored or excited. I took many good pictures of monkey and will
never get tired of taking more.

2. What country would you like to visit? Choose one and explain why

A: The country I would like to visit the most is Italy. First reason would be the Arts. In Italy one can find
more than half of the works of art and sights of the entire world. They are also extremely varied, as they
are expression of various historical eras, covering 2,800 years. Second reason is to see all the townships.

28
The Italian civilization was the first to stress the importance of cities. No other country in the world has so
many towns, so different, so rich in art and history, and so beautiful. And finally, I am a huge fan of Italian
cuisine, it is a dream of mine to try all the famous Italian dishes in Italy.

Event
1. Describe a situation when you asked someone for help. What were the
results?

A situation where I asked for help: asking for direction in a new city
First reason: faster and easier
Details: better than map
Second reason: flexible
Details: better route, more local information

A: Once I had to ask for direction while visiting TianJin. First reason I ask someone for help instead of
looking up the map is that it is quicker and easier. Local people are very nice and friendly, it only takes
them a few seconds to figure out where I am trying to go and point me to the right direction. Second
reason is that when getting direction from local people, they would give me a shorter and more
convenient route. Sometimes they even introduce me to a few interesting things to see along the way
which can bring nice surprises to my journey.

29
2. What is a special day of celebration in your country, and what do you do on
that day? A special day of celebration: Chinese New Year

First reason: most special day for Chinese

Details: new beginning, family reunion
Second reason: what activities we do
Details: fireworks, feast, dumplings, family party

A: In my opinion, Chines New Year is the most special day of celebration in my country. I feel this way
because this day marks a new beginning for everyone. Its a time of harmony and peace, and considered
to be the luckiest day of the year. We have these huge family parties where everyone will show up. On
the New Years Eve, all the family members would gather to have the biggest feast of the year. And later in
that evening, people set fireworks around the whole city which is such a magnificent display to watch if
you live in a high raise building. By midnight, we would have Chinese Dumpling with all our families, and
the party usually last till morning. Its the one celebration every Chinese looks forward to all year long.

3. What was the news in the past that made you the happiest.

First reason: all the hard work paid off

Details: many sleepless night study, hard work
Second reason: exiting new life
Details: new professor, new friends, new opportunities

A: The news that made me the happiest was when I found out I have been accepted to my dream
University. The main reason is many years of hard work finally paid off. It is a extremely satisfying
experience achieving my goal and it gives me confidence that no matter how difficult the task, as long as I
give it every effort, I can succeed. In addition, it marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Im
eagerly waiting for school to start so I can make many new friends and meet my professors. College life
can be very exciting, and there are new challenges ahead my way. I cant wait to jump in. Therefore the
news that made me the happiest was when I got accepted to my dream school.

30


4. what is a challenging experience you have overcome, and how did you
overcome it?

First reason: training

Details: never gave up
Second reason: diet
Details: more veggie, less junk

A: Ive been over weight for the most part of my adult life. I decided last year it was time for me to lose
some weight or my health will be at risk. So I started going to the gym on a regular basis. My personal
trainer was very patient with me and supportive, so I could carry through my training plan. It wasnt easy
at the beginning, but after a month into the training I got the hang of it and started to see some promising
results, that helped keep me going. Second, I set myself to a strict diet. Im eating more vegetable and
fruit now, and am able to stay away from junk food. A year later I have shed around 40 pounds and I am
living a better life than before. I am very proud of myself to have overcome such a challenging
experience.

31


People

Adaptable Adorable Ambitious Brave Bright

Calm Charming Cheerful Confident Dazzling

Delightful Determined Entertaining Fabulous Faithful

Frank Funny Generous Gentle Helpful

Kind Lively Lovely Mature Quiet

Romantic Self-assured Sensitive Sincere Skillful

Successful Talented Thoughtful Tough Warm

Place

Alive Amazing Beautiful Bright Calm

Colorful Crowed Deserted Different Fresh

Incredible Interesting Magnificent Modern Mysterious

Natural Noisy Pleasant Quiet Remarkable

Silent Terrific Unique Unusual Wild

Traditional Sensational Romantic Magical Mystical

Object

32
 Event

33

1. Describe a special and valuable object that is important to you. Explain why this
object is important to you. Include details and examples in your explanation.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

2. Describe a tool or equipment that you rely on often in your daily life. Explain why it is
important to you. Include reasons and examples to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

3. Describe one kind of your skills which you are good at (such as drawing pictures
playing basketball). Explain why this skill is important to you. Include reasons and
details to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

34
4. Describe your favorite subject when you were in primary school. Explain why you like
it. Include reasons and examples to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

5. People have a lot of ways to make friends. What do you think is a good way to make
friends?Include specific reasons and details in your explanation.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

6. What are some important effects of Internet on modern peoples life? Use specific
details and examples to support your response?
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

35
7. What do you think is the most important invention in the past 100 years? Explain why
this invention is important. Include details and examples in your explanation.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

8. What food would you like to introduce to a visitor from a foreign country? Explain why
youd like to introduce this food to this visitor. Use specific reasons and examples in
your answer.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

9. Which technology has made the greatest impact on peoples life in your country?
Airplane computer or television. Use specific reasons and examples to support your
response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

36
10.Which transportation do you think is the most enjoyable for you? It could be
bicycle automobile or train. Explain why you think this transportation is important to
you. Include reasons and examples to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

11.Describe a special gift you gave to some one else. Explain why it is a special gift?
Include details to support your explanation.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

12. What is the most interesting class you have ever taken? Explain the aspects of the
class that made it interesting. Include details and examples in your explanation.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

37
13. What is your favorite way to relax? Explain why you like to use this way to relax
yourself. Include reasons and details to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

14. Choose a subject that you would like to learn more about. Explain which subject
youd like to learn more about and why youd like to learn more about it. Use specific
reasons and details in your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

15. Describe a goal that you want to achieve in the future. Explain why this goal is
important to you. Include reasons and details to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

38
16. Describe a job career or profession which you wish to pursue. Explain why this job
is your ideal job. Include reasons and details to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

17. Describe a piece of good news which made you feel happy. Explain why you felt
happy about that news. Include reasons and examples to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

18. Describe a particularly enjoyable day in your life. Explain why this day was
enjoyable to you. Include reasons and details in your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

39
19. Describe an important thing that you learned from your parents in your childhood.
Explain why this thing is important to you. Include reasons and details in your
response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

20. If you could study a subject that you have never had the opportunity to study what
would you choose? Explain your choice using specific reasons and details.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

21. Choose a school which is very impressive to you and explain why it is impressive to
you. Include reasons and examples to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

40
22. Describe a popular gathering place where people in your town usually go for
relaxation. Explain why people in your town like to go there. Include reasons and
examples to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

23. Describe an outdoor place youd like to go for outdoor activities in nice weathers.
Explain why youd like to go to this place.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

24. Describe your favorite place to shop for clothes. Explain why you like to go to this
place to shop for clothes. Include specific reasons and details to support your
response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

41
25. Describe a person whom you enjoy spending time with. Explain why you would like
to spend time with this person. Include reasons and details to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

26. Describe a special friend in your childhood why he or she is special to you?
Include reasons and details to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

27. Describe a famous person you admire most. Explain why you admire this person.
Include details and examples to support your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

42
28. Describe a piece of news or a story that you are interested in recently. And explain
why you think it was interesting. Include reasons and details in your response.
Topic:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

43
 TASK 2

I believe strongly that_______________, the first reason is_______________, for

example_________________.the second reason is,________________, for
example_________________. This is why I believe_________________.

Type A:
Some schools have all of their first-year students live together in dormitories.
Other schools have first-year students live together with students from other
years. Which do you think is better and why?

44
A: Some schools have all of their first-year student live together in dormitories, other schools have first-
year students live together with students from other years. Personally, I prefer to live with first-year
students in dormitory in my first year college. First of all, it will be easier for us to make friends with each
other since we are all freshmen. We will have more to talk about, for example our new life and campus
experiences. Secondly, I am sure the senior students wont like it because first year students are usually
louder, and like to party all the time. Finally, since first-year student have most of the introduction level
course, it will be easier for us to form study groups if we lived in the same building.

Type B:
Do you agree or disagree that the use of cell phones should be prohibited in
public

A: I do believe strongly that the use of cell phones should be prohibited in public. Because first of all, it
can be very disrespectful to others around you, especially when people talk really loud to their phones in
noisy environment such as in restaurants and on buses. It give me a real bad headache because I am
forced to listen their conversations which I have absolutely no interest in. Second it can be distracting in
quite public place such as library and theaters. All it takes to ruin a good movie is when someone next to
you pick up a call and start talking during the show. Last but not least, I cant stand it when people talk on
their phone while driving, its very dangerous and extremely irresponsible.

45

1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statements which is students
should take classes during the day and work part-time jobs at night or on the
weekend.

A: I agree with the statement that students should take classes during the day and work part-time jobs at
night or on the weekend. First of all, a part-time job can cover part of the tuition and school expenses.
Many of my friends work their way through college without interfering their academic life as long as they
dont work too many hours pre week. Second, students can gain a different kind of experience while
working off the campus. One can learn how to interact with people and deal with real world problems.
These abilities will become very handy when students graduate and leave school. But one thing is
certain, one do have to keep his or her working hours under control so it doesn't effect school works.

2. Some people believe it is better to go to university or college right after

graduating from high school, other people believe it is better to take a year off
between high school and university or college. Which do you prefer and why?

A: I think it would be best for students to start university right away. First of all, it is better to start higher
education as soon as possible when the human brain is most productive. We all know the younger, the
easier it is for us to absorb new information and understand new ideas. If working is the reason one
would take a year break between high school and college, one can easily find a part-time job on or off
campus when attending university. That way, student can gain some working experiences while in school,
and he or she can graduate one year earlier.

46


3. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Having money and
power is the best way to measure success.

A: I do not believe having money and power is the best way to measure success. First of all, there is no
denial that money and power are important aspects of life, but it is not the only way to measure if a
person is successful. For example, a university professor might not be as rich as a business person, but
we can not consider him less successful. He is more successful academically. A skilled craft man certainly
is not as powerful as a politician. However, it is foolish to call him an unsuccessful person because he
doesnt possess the same kind of power. He is successful after many years of practice, he will become an
expert of his own trade. These are two of the many examples of successful person who is neither very
rich or powerful.

47
4. Some people like to read nonfiction books. Others like reading fiction books.
What kind of books do you like to read and why?

A: I myself is a big fan of fiction books. First of all, fiction books are much more fun to read compare to
nonfiction books. I can escape reality and explore another world far from my own life, I find that very
exciting. Secondly, fiction stories are much more unpredictable than nonfiction books, it suites my taste
perfectly since I like surprises a lot. The ones I like to read the most are science fiction novels. They never
fail to amaze me and can take me onto so many unforgettable adventures.

5. Some people like to watch films. Others like to attend concerts. Which activity
do you prefer and why?

A: I prefer going to the movies. The first reason that makes me enjoy movies more is I get to enjoy a
good story when going to the movies, which concerts can not offer. The second reason is when watching
a movie, besides fatalistic music and sound effects, there is also fabulous imaging on the screen which is
such a treat for my eyes. Generally movies give me a more engaging entertainment experience than
concerts. This is why I like to watch a movie than going to concerts.

48
6. Some students like to stay on campus and attend school during summer
vacation. Other students prefer to get jobs and work off campus. Which
activity do you think is better and why?

A: I personally believe that getting jobs and work off campus is a better way to spend summer vacation.
First of all, students have been living and attending classes during semester, it will be nice to leave
campus during summer for a change. By work off campus, student can gain some real world working
experience plus meet different kinds of people. Changing environment during summer can help students
clear their mind, so they can go back to falls semester refreshed. Secondly, the job students work during
summer can also pay for their students loan. They may even go back school with extra money for parties
and stuff. I dont see why students shouldnt work during summer vacations.

49
7. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? People in modern
society live more comfortable lives than their grandparents generation did.

A: I can not a agree more with the statement that people in modern society live more comfortable lives
than their grandparents generation did. First of all, look at all the technologies we have today. For
example, thanks to computers and internet, we rarely have to go to the library when we need to learn
something. We can do most of the simple researches without ever leaving our house. Another example
would be transportation. During my grandparents time, it took them days even weeks traveling to another
city. Today, bullet train can take us almost anywhere within the country in matters of hours. Not to motion
when we take the airplane, we can fly to any country in the world within 24 hours.

8. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? People cannot learn
important lessons about life in classrooms?

A: I do agree with the statement that people cannot learn important lessons about life in classroom. First
of all, classroom is not a place to learn important life lessons about life. We can only learn about life in the
real world and from our own life experiences. People learn how to operate a computer or solve a difficult
mathematic problem in school, but we cannot learn how to interact with other people or make difficult life
decisions by sitting in a classroom. The profound lessons about life can only be learnt from our own
achievements and failures, or what happens around us. We learn skills in class, but it is from our
experiences, we learns the true meaning of life.

50

1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Cell phones can improve our
lives greatly. Use specific reasons to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

2. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Children should be required
to help with household tasks as long as they grew old enough to do so. Use specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

3. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Having class discussions
makes students learn more. Use specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

51
4. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It is easier to be a teacher
than to be a student. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

5. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It is more beneficial for
students to study in larger classes than study in smaller classes. Use specific reasons
and examples to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

6. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Participating in class

discussions makes students learn more. Use specific reasons and examples to
support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:

52
Details:

7. Some college students prefer to take classes on campus during summer vocations.
Others prefer to have a rest or work off campus during summer vacations. Which do
you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

8. Some people like taking their vacation in a city. Others prefer spending their vacation
in the countryside. Which do you prefer and why? Include details and examples in
your explanation.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

9. Some people prefer to attend indoor activities in their spare time. Others prefer to
attend outdoor activities in their spare time. Which do you prefer and why? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

53
Reason B:
Details:

10.Some people prefer to attend outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming on
their vacation; While others prefer to do less physical activities at home on their
vacation. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to
support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

11.Some people prefer to attend team sports. Others prefer to do individual sports.
Which do you prefer and why? Include details and examples in your explanation.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

12.Some people prefer to buy prepared food from restaurants. Others prefer to prepare
and eat at home. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples
to support your response.
Preference:

54
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

13.Some people prefer to have a busy schedule with a lot of activities. Others prefer to
have a lighter schedule with a lot of free time. Which do you prefer and why? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

14.Some people prefer to live in big cities; while others prefer to live in countryside.
Which do you prefer and why? Include reasons and details in your explanation.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

15.Some people prefer to travel to some new places that they have never been; others
prefer to travel to places that they have been before. Which do you prefer and why?
Preference:

55
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

16.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? College education should be
free. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

17.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It's a waste of time for
university students to take courses outside their major fields. Use specific reasons
and examples in your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Students should be given a
one-year-long holiday before entering universities. Use specific reasons and examples
to support your answer.

56
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

18.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? While choosing friends,
people should always choose those who have different interests from their own.
Include specific reasons and examples in your explanation.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

19.Some people believe that people can use their cell phones at anytime. Other people
believe that cell phones should be prohibited on some certain occasions. What is
your opinion and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

57
20.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It is better for children to
grow up in countryside than in big cities. Use specific reasons to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

21.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It is important to study the
history from our ancestors. Use specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

22.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? People should always tell the
truth. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

58
23.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Students should be given a
one-year-long break from academic studies before attending colleges. Use specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

24.Some high schools require all students to wear school uniforms; other high schools
permit students to decide what to wear to school. Which of these two school policies
do you think is better? Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

25.Some one prefers to focus on one job throughout his or her life; others prefer to
change from one job to the other. Which do you think is better? Use specific reasons
and examples to support your choice.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

59
26.Some people believe that universities should focus their money on academic
studies. Other people believe that universities should also use their funds to provide
students more entertainments such as movies and concerts. What is your opinion
and why?
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

27.Some people prefer to celebrate their birthdays or holidays with a large group of
people in a party. Others prefer to celebrate their birthdays or holidays alone and
quietly. Which do you prefer and why? Include details and examples in your
explanation.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

28.Some people prefer to collect enough information about their destination before they
start their traveling. Others dont. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons
and examples to support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:

60
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

29.Some people prefer to finish reading a book once. Others prefer to finish reading a
book for several times. Which way do you prefer and why?
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

30.Some people prefer to get news or current information from newspaper or magazine;
others prefer to get news or current information from TV or other sources. Which way
do you prefer and why? Include reasons and examples in you explanation.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

31.Some people prefer to get up early in the morning and start the day's work. Others
prefer to get up later in the day and work until late at night. Which do you prefer? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your choice.
Preference:

61
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

32.Some people prefer to have a few favorite foods that they are familiar with. Others
always prefer to try new style of foods. Which do you prefer and why? Include details
and examples in your explanation.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

33.Some people prefer to keep in touch with their family members and friends by letters
and e-mail. Others prefer to keep in touch with their family members and friends by
telephone. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to
support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

62
34.Some people prefer to plan activities for their free time very carefully. Others choose
not to make any plans at all for their free time. Which do you prefer-planning or not
planning for your leisure time? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your
choice.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

35.Some people prefer to spend time with small group of close friends. Others choose
to spend time with a large group of acquaintances. Which way do you prefer? Use
specific reasons to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

36.Some people prefer to spend time with their family or friends. Others prefer spend
time alone. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to
support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:

63
Details:

37.Some people prefer to travel to new places; others prefer to travel to places that they
have been before. Which do you prefer and why?
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

38.Some people prefer to work with profession in a group. Others prefer to work with
profession individually. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and
examples to support your response.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

Reason B:
Details:

39.Some people say that physical exercise should be a required part of every school
day. Other people believe that students should spend the whole school day on
academic studies. Which opinion do you agree with? Use specific reasons and details
to support your answer.
Preference:
Reason A:
Details:

64
Reason B:
Details:

65
 TASK 3

A reading passage (75-100 words) presents a campus-related issue.

A listening passage (60-80 sec) comments on the issue
The question asks the test taker to summarize the speakers opinion within the context
of the read passage
Preparation time: 30 sec
Response time: 60 sec
You do not contribute your ideas to the argument.

Read a Passage Listening to a Conversation Putting the Pieces Together

Respond

What
Why 1
Why 2

66


Reading
What:
Why 1:
Why 2:

Listening

M W

67

The school has decided to/ the student letter suggests:
In the conversation, the man agrees with the plan/proposal for two reasons:
First of all, he thinks that:
Also, he believes that:
This is why the man disagrees with the plan/proposal:

Agreeing Opposing

Unfair! It wonderful!
It is unnecessary! I think this reform is great!
Silly! Its a good idea!
It makes no sense! It cant be better!
Its ridiculous! It works!
Its only a short-term solution I cant agree with it more
Its not practical!

68
 3.
3. You
3. You will
You will now
will now read
now read aa short
read a short passage
short passage and
passage and then
and then listen
then listen to
to aaa talk
listen to talk on
talk on the
on the same
the same topic.
same topic. You
topic. You
You
will
will then
will then be
then be asked
be asked a question
asked aa question about
question about them.
about them. After
them. After you
After you hear
you hear
hear thethe question,
the question, you
question, you will
you will have
will have
have
30
30 seconds
30 seconds
seconds toto prepare
to prepare your
prepare your response
your response and
response and 60
and 60 seconds
60 seconds
seconds to to speak.
to speak.
speak.

Now
Now play
Now play Audio
play Audio Track
Audio Track 26
Track 26 to
26to hear
tohear Question
hearQuestion 3.
Question3.
3.

Reading
Reading time:
Reading time: 45
time: 45 seconds
45 seconds
seconds

Bus
Bus Service
Bus Service Elimination
Service Elimination Planned
Elimination Planned
Planned
The
The university
The university has
university has decided
has decided to
decided to discontinue
to discontinue its
discontinue its free
its free bus
free bus service
bus service for
service for students.
for students. The
students. The rea-
The rea-
rea-
son
son given for this decision is that few students ride the buses and the buses
son given for this decision is that few students ride the buses and the buses are ex-
given for this decision is that few students ride the buses and the buses are
are ex-
ex-
pensive
pensive
pensive toto operate.
to operate. Currently,
operate. Currently, the
Currently, the buses
the buses
buses runrun from
run from the
from the center
the center
center ofof campus
of campus past
campus past
past
university
university buildings
university buildings and
buildings and through
and through some
through some of
some of the
of the neighborhoods
the neighborhoods surrounding
neighborhoods surrounding
surrounding thethe cam-
the cam-
cam-
pus.
pus. The
pus. The money
The money saved
money saved by
saved by eliminating
by eliminating the
eliminating the bus
the bus service
bus service will
service will be
will be used
be used
used toto expand
to expand
expand thethe
the
overcrowded
overcrowded student
overcrowded student parking
student parking lots.
parking lots.
lots.

Now
Now hear
Now hear aa conversation
hear a conversation about
conversation about the
about the same
the same topic.
same topic.
topic.

The man
The man expresses his
his opinion of
of the universitys
universitys plan to
to eliminate the
the bus service.
service.
The man expresses
expresses his opinion
opinion of the
the universitys plan
plan to eliminate
eliminate the bus
bus service.
State his
State his opinion and
and explain the
the reasons hehe gives for
for holding that
that opinion.
State his opinion
opinion and explain
explain the reasons
reasons he gives
gives for holding
holding that opinion.
opinion.
Preparation time:
Preparation time: 30 seconds
seconds
Preparation time: 30
30 seconds
Response time:
Response time: 60 seconds
seconds
Response time: 60
60 seconds

GO ON
ON TO THE PAGE g
THE NEXT PAGE
GO
GO ON TO NEXT PAGE g
TO THE NEXT g
69

273
273
273
Listening Script:
Man
I dont like the universitys plan.
Woman
Really? Ive ridden those buses, and sometimes there were only a few people on the
bus. It did seem like kind of a waste.
Man
I see your point. But I think the problem is the routes out-of-date. It only goes through
the neighborhoods thatve gotten too expensive for students to live. Its ridiculous that
they havent already changed the routeyou know, so it goes where most off-campus
students live now. I bet if they did that, theyd get plenty of students riding those buses.
Woman
Well, at least theyre adding more parking. Its gotten really tough to find a space.
Man
Thats the other part I dont like, actually. Cutting back the bus service and adding park-
ings just gonna encourage more students to drive on campus. And thatll just add to the
noise around campus and create more traffic . . . and thatll increase the need for more
parking spaces . . .
Woman
Yeah, I guess I can see your point. Maybe it would be better if more students used the
buses instead of driving.
Man
Right. And the university should make it easier to do that, not harder.

70
 1. Bus Elimination

Reading

What: School plans to eliminate free bus service

Why 1: Not many students use it
Why 2: Money saved additional parking lots

Listening

M W

1. Routes out-of-date
Buses route, area, $!, no student,
suggestion: change R, more
student, use buses

2. New parking, X idea

- bus + parking= more ppl drive
on campus more car=
noise + traffic problems

Sample Response:

The school is planning to eliminate its free bus service for students, because not
many students use the bus and the money saved can be used to build additional
parking lots. The man disagrees. First of all, he thinks the bus route is out of date,
because the buses are only going through expensive areas. He suggests the school
to update the bus route to where more students live now. Also, he thinks if the school
cut the bus service and add more parking lots on campus, that will encourage more
students to drive on campus, and that will increase the noise level and create more
traffic problems on campus.

71
 Bus Service Elimination Planned

The university has decided to discontinue its free bus service for students. The
reason given for this decision is that few students ride the buses and the buses are
expensive to operate. Currently, the buses run from the center of campus past
university buildings and through some of the neighborhoods surrounding the campus.
The money saved by eliminating the bus service will be used to expand the
overcrowded student parking lots.

Reading

Listening

Complete Answer

72
 Student Center Cafeteria Too Crowded
I am writing this letter to express my feelings about the Student Center Cafeteria.
Ever since enrollment here increased, the cafeteria has become too crowded. This is
a tremendous problem during breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as there are simply not
enough places for students to sit and eat their meals. In addition, since the library
does not have enough room, many students use the cafeteria as a place to study.
Unfortunately, there are not enough spaces for the students to sit at. I strongly urge
the school administration to renovate the student center and enlarge the cafeteria.

Reading

Listening

Complete Answer

73
Listening Script:
Man:
You know... The author of this letter is right. The school should renovate the Student
Center Cafeteria.
Woman:
Hold on a second. They don't need to do that. After all, there are small eateries all over
campus. We have choices of where we want to eat.
Man:
Sure, but the cafeteria is so convenient.
Woman:
Yes, but you don't have to eat there. I mean... I go outdoors to eat when the weather's
nice. And don't you eat at that little cafe inside Robinson Hall? I've seen you there
before.
Man:
Okay, yes, I eat there sometimes.
Woman:
See. We have choices.
Man:
But what about the studying aspect? That's important
Woman:
Oh, come on. The student center is always full of students doing lots of different
activities. People are always chatting, and it's really loud. How can anyone study in that
kind of an environment?
Man:
But we can't study at the library.
Woman:
That's true. The desks are always occupied, and there's no room to study. You know,
the school should renovate the library instead of the cafeteria. That would help us out a
lot more.

74
 2. Student Center Cafeteria

Reading

What: Renovate and enlarge student center cafeteria

Why 1: No space to sit and eat
Why 2: No room to study

Listening

M W

1. Other choices around campus
Many small eateries
Eat outside when weathers nice
Small cafe in R.H.

2. SC cafeteria is too noisy to study

People chatting
Doing other activities
Suggestion: enlarge library
instead of SC cafe t

Sample Response:

The student in the letter suggests that the school should renovate and enlarge the
student center cafeteria because there isnt enough space for students to eat and
study. In the conversation, the woman disagrees with the proposal for the following
reasons. First of all, students can choose to eat at other places on campus, such as
eating outdoors when the weathers nice, or at any other eateries around campus.
Also, she doesnt think studying in the cafeteria is a wise choice, because the place is
too noisy. People are always chatting and doing all kinds of activities. In her opinion,
the school should enlarge the library instead of the student center cafeteria.

75
 All Freshmen May Live on Campus
Beginning next semester, all freshmen will be eligible to live in student dormitories on
campus. The previous rule not guaranteeing on-campus housing for freshmen has
been changed due to numerous complaints by both students and parents. This new
regulation will permit first-year students more easily to form study groups with their
their peers on campus. This should enable them to improve their over all grade point
averages. Additionally, the university had determined there is enough space in school
parking lots to accommodate the extra cars that will be parked there by freshmen, so
parking will not be an issue to consider.

Reading

Listening

Complete Answer

76
Listening Script:
Man:
Hey, they're letting freshmen live in the dorms. Great!
Woman:
The school means well, but I must say that their reasoning is completely illogical!
Man:
I disagree. That idea about forming study groups sounds good. I could've used one
when I was a freshman. But I didn't get to live on campus.
Woman:
I lived in the dorms when I was a freshman.
Man:
How was it?
Woman:
Noisy. Really noisy. I didn't have a study group because the atmosphere in the dorms
just wasn't conducive to studying. People were making noise at all hours of the day and
never studying. That's why I moved off campus my sophomore year, when, incidentally,
I actually joined a study group. It was much quieter off campus.
Man:
Okay, but what about this parking situation? That's nice, isn't it?
Woman:
The school's not planning to build any new parking lots. That's a huge mistake.
Man:
Do you think so?
Woman:
If every freshman living on campus has a car, the parking lots are going to be jam
packed. Nobody from off campus will get to park here. You can count on that.

77
 3. Freshmen Dormitory Policy

Reading

What: The school is permitting all first year student to live on campus
Why 1: They can form study groups easily
Why 2: There are enough parking space on campus

Listening

M W

1. Its really noisy on campus
Students make noise all the time
She cant concentrate in the
dorms, joined a std.group 2nd year
Much quieter off campus

2. Not enough parking on campus

If every one drives, parking lot,
jam packed,
Off campus students wont find
space to park

Sample Response:

The school is permitting all first year students to live on campus to encourage them to
form study groups, also, there will be enough parking space for everyone. The
woman disagrees with this new policy. First of all, she believes the dormitory cant
offer students a good study environment, because its filled with noise made by
students. It was when she moved off campus that she actually joined a study group.
Its nice and quiet off campus. Also, she believes if every freshman has a car, the
parking lot will be over crowded. And that will make it really difficult for off campus
students to find a parking space when they come to class.

78
 University Should Pave Running Trails
The university has about three miles of unpaved dirt running trails that pass through
the forest near campus. I think these trails should be paved with cement. One reason
for paving the trails would be to increase their safety. When it rains, the dirt turns to
mud and becomes very slippery, so the runners who use them can slip and fall.
Pavement would solve this problem. Also, paving would make the trails look nicer,
which would encourage students to use them. Bumps in the trail would be smoothed
out and weeds would be paved over, making the trail more attractive to runners.

Reading

Listening

Complete Answer

79
Listening Script:
Woman
Hey, Ted! You are a runner. Did you see this letter in the paper?
Man
Yeah, I did, and I used those.
Woman
And?
Man
I think its a terrible idea.
Woman
How come?
Man
Well, she really hasnt thought it through, like the thing about making them safer. What she is not thinking about is the
long-term consequences of running on a hard surface.
Woman
What do you mean?
Man
I mean its not good for you. Its too hard on your bones and joints. If you run repeatedly on a hard surface, it can lead
to injuries, or thats what Ive been taught anyway. Its better to run on a soft surface. It does less damage to your
body.
Woman
Oh, I wasnt aware of that.
Man
Yeah, so actually it wouldnt be safer, and her second point...
Woman
About changing the way they look?
Man
Yeah, I dont think people will like it.
Woman
So theyd use them less?
Man
Yeah, I mean one of the main reasons people enjoy them now is its a way of taking a break from the rest of campus,
from buildings and streets and stuff. Its, you know, a chance to feel like you are out in nature.
Woman
Oh, so you wouldnt get that effect anymore.
Man
Right, itd be just like you are on a regular street or sidewalk. It wouldnt be as relaxing.

80
 4. Running Trail

Reading

What: Student suggests school to pave the running trail

Why 1: Increase safety
Why 2: Make it look nicer

Listening

M W

1. It not safe to run on hard surface
Impact on bones and joints, long
term injury, negative
consequences
Its better to run on soft surface

2. People wont like the new look

Students run there to avoid
buildings and roads.
They want to take a break,
surrounded by nature

Sample Response:

The student in the letter suggests the school to pave the running trail with cement to
make it safer, and better looking. The man disagrees. His first reason is that its
actually not safe to run on hard surface, because that will put too much pressure on
the runners bones and joints, which could lead to injury. He thinks its much safer to
run on dirt surface which is softer. Also, he claims that a cement surface will
discourage runners to use the trails. Because students run there to get away from
every day surroundings such as buildings and sidewalks on campus. They want the
nature when they run, and changing the surface would ruin that relaxing experience.

81


Academic advisor

Academic Calendar

Academic plan

Academic standing

Admission deposit

Application fee

82
Advanced degree

Advising transcript

Alumni

Applicant

Approved

Assignments

Award

Financial Aid

Bachelors degree

Class schedule

Computing ID

Concentration

Confirmation of enrollment

Continuing student

Convocation

Co-operative education

Course description

Course numbering

Course outline

Cumulative grade point

average (CGPA)

Dean

Department

Distance Education Course

Elective

83
Enrollment

Enrollment appointment

Enrollment request

Exam (midterm and final)

Exchange student

Faculty

Full time student

Government student loans

Graduate courses

Graduate student

Honors program

Joint major

Lab

Lecture

Level

Library/ID card

Lower division

New student

Non-credit courses

Office hours

Orientation

Part time student

Prerequisite

Prospective student

Required to withdraw

Requirements, Admission

84
Scholarship

Semester

Seminar

Student Information
System

Student Society

Summer session

Teaching Assistant

Term papers and projects

Tuition

Tutorial

Undergraduate

Unofficial transcript

U-Pass card

Upper division

Visiting and Exchange

students

85
 Task 4

86

In the lecture, the professor talks about______, which means______
In the first example, ______
In the second example, ______

Social Interaction

People deal with each other every day. This interaction is at the heart of social life.
The study of social interaction is concerned with the influence people have over one
anothers behavior. People take each other into account in their daily behavior and in
fact, the very presence of others can affect behavior. For example, one principle of
social interaction, audience effects, suggests that individuals work is affected by
their knowledge that they are visible to others, that the presence of others tends to
alter the way people behave or perform an activity.

Social interaction study which is concerned with the influence people have over one
anothers behavioraudience effectindividuals work is affected by knowing that they
are visible to otherstends to alter their performance

When being watchedincrease speed at what we do

Shoelace, group one knows being watchedfaster than group two
Still true when we learn new skills
in accuracy

A: In the lecture, the professor talks about audience effect which means that people
would perform some activities differently when they are aware of being observed. In the

87
first example, two groups of students were asked to tie their shoelace while one group
knew they were being observed, the other group didnt. The result shows that the first
group tied their shoelaces much faster than the second group. The same thing also
happens when we learn a new activity, such as typing in the second example. When we
know that we are being watched by others when learning how to type, we would type
faster, but at same time, we will also make more mistakes.

Script

OK, so we said that the way we interact with others has an

impact on our behavior . . .
In fact, theres some interesting research to suggest that in one
type of interactionwhen were being observed specifically,
when we know were being watched as we perform some activity
we tend to increase the speed at which we perform that
activity.
In one study, college students were asked to each put on a pair
of shoesshoes with laces they would have to tie. Now one
group of students was told that they would be observed. The
second group, however, didnt know they were being observed.
The students who were aware that they were being watched
actually tied their shoes much faster than the students who
thought they were alone.
Other studies confirm the same is true even when were learning
new activities. Lets say someone is learning a new taskfor
example, learning how to type. When theyre conscious of being
observed, theyll likely begin typing at a much faster rate than
they would if they were alone.
But, and this is interesting, the study also showed that certain
common behavior things people typically do, like . . . making
mistakes when youre learning something new that behavior
pattern will also increase. So in other words, when were
learning to type, and we know were being watched, well type
faster but well also make more mistakes.

88


Social Interaction

People deal with each other every day. This interaction is at the heart of social life.
The study of social interaction is concerned with the influence people have over one
anothers behavior. People take each other into account in their daily behavior and in
fact, the very presence of others can affect behavior. For example, one principle of
social interaction, audience effects, suggests that individuals work is affected by their
knowledge that they are visible to others, that the presence of others tends to alter
the way people behave or perform an activity.

Reading

Listening

Complete Answer

89
 Groupthink

One process by which groups may make bad or irrational decisions is known as
groupthink. Individual members of a group attempt to conform their opinions to what
they believe to be the group consensus even though the result may be negative.
There are many reasons why groupthink happens. These include the desire to be
liked, fear of losing a job, or even not wanting to be the one employee delaying a
decision that seems inevitable. These kinds of implicit pressures to conform lead
group members to ultimately make decisions that each, by himself or herself, might
normally not make.

Reading

Listening

90
Script

So let me tell you about my own experience with this when I was working for a computer company a
couple of years ago. So one day, a coworker and I suggested we should give our computers a design
makeover, make them look more up to date. Market research was showing that new customers said
they would be more interested in buying our computers if they looked cooler. Our technology was
advanced, but the outside design looked really old-fashioned.

At first, more than half the group supported us. There were a few senior managers there though who
didnt support the design change. One of the senior managers said, Our focus has always been on
technology. Changing the look is an unnecessary cost. Almost immediately, some of our supporters
changed their minds. Even my coworker changed his mind. When I asked him why after the meeting,
he told me he didnt want to make a bad impression on the senior managers. He thought that
disagreeing with them might jeopardize his chances of getting a promotion by not looking like a team
player.

What about me? I hate to admit it, but after a few hours of discussion, I started wondering if it was
worth everyones time to argue about this. As more people sided with senior management, I started to
feel like I was the only one holding up the vote. Everyone else seemed to think change wasnt
necessary, so I voted against my own idea in the end. So we unanimously decided to stay with the
current old-looking design. But this decision ended up costing us a lot of money. That same year, our
competitor came out with a new design that attracted some of our customers and prevented us from
profiting on potential new customers.

Keys

Reading keys
Term: groupthink
Definition: some times people make bad or irrational decision within a group
Why do we do it?
Desire to be liked, fear of losing a job
Not wanting to be the only one, the minority
Listening keys
Professor and coworker wanted to change the look of their computer
Manager disagreed
Coworker changed mind
Did not leave a bad impression
Professor changed his mind as well
Did not want to be the only one thats holding back the vote
They were all wrong
Competitor came out with a new design that attracted many costumers

91
 Cognitive Dissonance

Individuals sometimes experience a contradiction between their actions and their

beliefs between what they are doing and what they believe they should be doing.
These contradictions can cause a kind of mental discomfort known as cognitive
dissonance. People experiencing cognitive dissonance often do not want to change
the way they are acting, so they resolve the contradictory situation in another way,
they change their interpretation of the situation in a way that minimizes the
contradiction between what they are doing and what they believe should be doing.

Reading

Listening

92
Script

This is a true story, from my own life. In my first year in high school, I was addicted to video
games. I played them all the time and I wasnt studying enough. I was failing chemistry. That
was my hardest class. So this was a conflict for me, because I wanted a good job when I
grew up, and I believed, I knew, that if you want a good career, you got to do well in school.
But I just couldnt give up video games. I was completely torn.

And my solution was to... to change my perspective. See, the only class I was doing really
badly in was chemistry. In the others, I was... I was Ok. So I asked myself, if I wanted to be a
chemist when I grew up, and the fact is I didnt. I was pretty sure I wanted to be a
sociologist, so I told myself my chemistry class didnt matter, because sociologists dont
really need to know chemistry. In other words, I changed my understanding of what it meant
to do well in school. I reinterpreted my situation. I used to think that doing well in school
meant doing well in all my classes. But now I decided that succeeding in school meant only
doing well in the classes that are related directly to my future career. I eliminated the conflict,
at least in my mind.

Keys

Reading keys

Term: cognitive dissonance

Definition: the discomfort caused by the conflict between our actions and believes
Fix: to see the problem from another perspective
Listening keys

Example
Conflict
Playing video games caused him a poor grade
He knew he should stop and study harder

Perspectives
Old one: doing well in school = doing well in all subjects
New one: doing well in school = doing well in the courses that are related to future career
Reason
He didnt want to be a chemist in the future

He wanted to be a sociologist
Conclusion
Chemistry class was not important to him

93
 Verbal and Nonverbal Communication

When we speak with other people face-to-face the nonverbal signals we giveour
facial expressions, hand gestures, body movements, and tone of voiceoften
communicate as much as, or more than, the words we utter. When our nonverbal
signals, which we often produce unconsciously, agree with our verbal message, the
verbal message is enhanced and supported, made more convincing. But when they
conflict with the verbal message, we may be communicating an entirely different and
more accurate message than what we intend.

Reading

Listening

94
Script

Last month my favorite uncle paid me a surprise visit. I hadnt seen him for many years. The doorbell
rang, I opened the door and there was Uncle Pete. Now I am sure when I saw him, I said something
like Uncle Pete, what a surprise! How nice to see you! Anyway, my wife was standing next to me, and
according to her, I wasnt really aware of this, my eyes got really wide and I broke into a huge big
smile. She said I was actually jumping up and down like a little boy. Well, anyway, later that evening
uncle Pete told me how very very good he felt when he saw how happy I was to see him.

But compare that with this, my daughter, she is six. We were building a birdhouse together last week.
And I was showing her how to use a hammer and nail. And of course, stupid me, I wasnt being very
careful and I smashed my thumb with the hammer. Boy did it hurt! I almost felt like screaming, but I
didnt want to upset my daughter, so I said, Dont worry, honey, its nothing. Meanwhile, I was shaking
my hand as if that would stop my thumb from hurting, and my face was contorted in pain. My voice was
trembling too. So even though I told my daughter I was okay, Im sure she didnt believe me because
she kept asking me if I was okay.

Keys

Reading key

Main idea: relationship between verbal and nonverbal communication

Agree with one another: enhance and support each other

Conflict with one another: nonverbal is more accurate

Listening key

Example 1:

Uncle visits

Verbal: so happy to see you!

Nonverbal: jumping up and down, huge big smile, eyes got really wide

Nonverbal signals enhance verbal message

Example 2:

Teaches daughter how to use a hummer and nail

Verbal: its fine, its alright

Nonverbal: shakes hand, face full of pain

Nonverbal signals are telling the truth

95
 Short Term Memory
Everyday, people commit thousands of bits of information to their short-term
memories. Unfortunately, many memories remain only for a short time and are quickly
forgotten. Psychologists have determined two reasons as to why people lose their
short-term memories. The first is decay. A memory decays, or fades away, when it is
not used by the person. The second reason is interference. This is when a new
memory enters the brain and simply causes the other memory to depart. Because of
these two factors, people are unable to retain every short-term memory they have

Reading

Listening

Complete Answer

96
Script

Do you have a good short-term memory? You probably do for some things yet don't for others. So,
what makes people suddenly forget their short-term memories? There are a couple of reasons. I'm
sure you've all been told something, only much to your chagrin, to forget it a couple of hours later.
Perhaps your friend tells you his phone number, but you don't write it down. You might repeat it a
couple of times and remember it with no problem, but, an hour or two later, you can't even recall the
first digit. Why did this happen? You didn't use that knowledge, so the memory simply decayed. It went
away from disuse.
Here's a personal example. I went to a bookstore last week to purchase two books I wanted. I had the
list with me, but, when I got into the bookstore, I realized I'd forgotten the list in the car. Yet I still
remembered the books' titles. However, before I could grab them, I ran into an old friend. We talked
about a different book for a few minutes, and then my friend left. However, the only title I could
remember was the book my friend and I had conversed about. This new memory was interfering with
my ability to recall the names of the other two books.

Listening Keys

a phone # not written down an hour or two

can't recall the first digit
decay

@ the bookstore to buy some books ran into a

short-term memory lost friend talked about some other books
friend left remember the name they just talked
interference about can't recall the name of the books she
wanted

Sample Response

The professor talks about the two reasons as to why people lose their short-term memories.
The first is decay. For example, when you get a phone number from someone and dont write
it down, a few hours later, that memory will disappear from disuse. The second reason is
interference. For example, one day, the professor went to a bookstore to get some books.
She ran into a friend and they talked about some other books for a few minutes. After the
conversation,
shaping
all the professor could remember was the name of the books she and her friend
definition: people's behavior changes when aware
of being watched
just talked about. She couldt remember by others
which books she wanted to buy because this
memory has been replaced by some new information.
1st. group aware of being watched

tying shoes

Studies 2nd. group didn't know they were observed

Audience Effect

97

money
 Scent Marketing

Stores commonly search for ways to entice shoppers to purchase more products
when they visit. One effective method that they have discovered is scent marketing.
Sellers have discovered that shoppers often associate scents with certain memories
or even feelings. Studies have determined that, depending upon the scent, people
can be made to feel comfortable, relaxed, tense, or many other feelings. Scents that
evoke pleasant memories are particularly effective. By ensuring that these scents are
in various section of their stores, owners can subconsciously encourage shoppers to
purchase more products than they normally would.

Reading

Listening

Complete Answer

98
Script

Well, it's called scent marketing, and it's the concept that various scents actually encourage people to
shop more.
There was a study conducted a while back about the scents used in a department store. One store
scented its entire women's clothing section with fragrances which were appealing to women. It also
sprayed its men's clothing section with aromas that men found to be pleasing. Interestingly, it doubled
the number of clothes that it sold. In a nutshell, both men and women, since they were attracted to
those smells, associated the clothes with those fragrances and made more purchases than they
normally would have.
There was also a survey about running shoes that was conducted recently. I think you'll find the results
fascinating. Well, more often than not, people preferred for the running shoes they purchased to have
some kind of fragrance. Furthermore, they actually expected to pay more money-around ten dollars in
most cases- for the shoes that smelled nicer. So, not only do smells encourage people to spend more,
but they also get people to pay more for the same products.

Listening Keys

def.: uses attractive smell to persuade people to

make more purchases

scent marketing clothing store spray perfume on clothing

buy more than normally would ppl were attracted by the smell X2 number of
cloth sold
effects
pay more for a product
running shoes if they smell good ppl willing
to pay more for them as much as $10 more

Sample Response

The professor talks about scent marketing which is a marketing method of using
short-term memory lost
attractive smell to encourage people to spend more in the store. In the first example,
a clothing
shaping store put perfume on both men and womens cloths, because people like

the smell, the store doubled the amount of cloths sold. Also, people are willing to pay
Audience Effect
more for a product which smells nicer. For example, researchers have found that if a
pair of running
money shoes smell nicer, people are willing to pay more to get it. As much as

ten dollars more.

ad.

99
 Task 5

The speakers discuss two possible solutions to the womans

problem. Briefly summarize the problem. Then state which
solution you recommend and explain why.

100

The man/ womans problem is_____________
The first solution is____________,
The second solution is, ________
I think__________is better.
Because, first of all__________,
And also____________.

101


Problem

Solutions

Solution Analysis

Sample Response

102
Man:
Mary, Im so glad I ran into you.
Woman:
Oh hello, Professor Jensen.
Man:
Listen, I know its short notice . . . and maybe youve already made plans for spring
break . . . but . . . one of my students just dropped out of the field trip to the Smithson
River Caves. Youre next on the waiting list, so now theres room for you to come along.
Woman:
youre kidding! [disappointed] I didnt think there was a chance . . . and . . . well, its a
three-day trip, right? I agreed to spend next week helping Professor Clark set up the
new museum exhibition. I think shes really counting on me.
Man:
Yeah, three days. But you know . . . if youd rather come on the field trip, why not speak
with her and see if she has anyone to replace you?
Woman:
Yeah, Id hate to miss out on the caves. Ill definitely ask Professor Clark if theres
someone else who could help her.
Man:
You know . . . we dont leave until Wednesday. If you still have to help out, any chance
you could get the museum setup done before then?
Woman:
Oh yeah . . . not until Wednesday . . . so then yeah . . . maybe thats possible too.

103
Problem

Need: She would like to go to the field trip

Obstacle: But promised another professor to set up museum exhibition

Solutions

Find someone else to set up the Set up the exhibition before going to the
exhibition for her field trip

Solution Analysis

less stress, use the time to do more
preparation for the trip
That person will have plenty of time to
set up the exhibition
She might disappoint the other
professor
The other professor might not find
someone else in time
She gets to do both activities. Learn
more, get more experiences
Still gets to keep her promise, wont let
the other professor down.
Rush her work at the museum, might
not do a decent job

Sample Response

The womans problem is that she wants to go to the field trip to study a cave, but she
has promised another professor to help set up the museum exhibition. There are two
solutions, she can find someone else to do the museum work for her, or she can get
the set up work done first, then go to the field trip.

I prefer the first solution for the following
reasons. First of all, this way she could
have plenty of time to prepare for the trip,
doing too much in a short period of time
is very stressful. Second, if she chooses
to do both, she might not have enough
time to make sure everything in the
museum is set up properly.
I prefer the second solution for the
following reasons. First of all, she will
learn more and gain more experience
from doing both activities. Also, it might
be hard for the other professor to find a
right person to replace her in that short
period of time.

104


Man:
Hey, Jennifer, why are you still here? I thought you were going to pick your friend up
from the airport right now. Aren't you going to be late?
Woman:
Yeah, well, I was going to drive there, but my cars got a flat tire. I'm not sure what I
should do now.
Man:
Why dont you take a taxi to get there and back? It should get you to the airport in plenty
of time if traffic isn't heavy. .
Woman:
That's not a bad idea, but do you know how much two taxis will set me back? They're
expensive. I've only got a few dollars left, and pay day isn't for another couple of days. I
don't know if I could afford them.
Man:
Well, what are you going to do then?
Woman:
Hey, I've got an idea. I could always ask my roommate Stephanie if I could borrow her
car. Then I could drive there by myself.
Man:
You could do that, but I heard Stephanie talking about how she is going out shopping
after school today. I'm sure she's going to need her car to do that.
Woman:
Oh, right. Well, the plane lands in a little less than an hour. I've got to do something
quickly.

105


M:
Jenny, how's that new apartment of yours working out? You must be so excited to have
finally gotten out of the dorms, huh?
W:
Well, I wish it were going all right. Unfortunately, it's not.
M:
Let me guess... It's too expensive?
W:
Oh, no, that's not it. It's my roommate Melissa. You know her. She's the art major.
M:
Okay. So what's she doing?
W:
Well, she painted the most horrid looking picture, and then she hung it up on the living
room wall, it's a total monstrosity. It covers the entire wall and looks terrible!
M:
Well, just tell her that you don't like it, and then she'll take it down.
W:
You know how sensitive Melissa is. If I told her that I hated her picture, she'd get upset
and start crying. She might never even forgive me.
M:
Yeah, I remember that about her. So, uh, what else can you do then?
W:
I guess I could just keep my mouth shut and not say anything. I could probably learn to
ignore that painting. I guess.
M:
What? But it's your house, too. You shouldn't have to see something you think is ugly
everyday just because your roommate likes it.
W:
I know, but it's a lot tougher than it seems. Put yourself in my shoes, okay.

106

Narrator
Now listen to a conversation between two students.

Student A
Hey, Mary! Hows your volunteer work going? You still involved in that after-school program with the elementary school kids?

Student B
Yeah! But Ive got a problem. Im supposed to be driving a bunch of them to the zoo tomorrow.

Student A
Yeah?

Student B
And I was supposed to rent a van for the trip. But I waited too long to call the rental agency to reserve one. And now it turns out
they dont have any vans available for tomorrow. I dont know what to do! These kids will be really disappointed if their trip gets
cancelled.

Student A
Um...well, doesnt one of your friends here on campus have a car? I mean, couldnt you borrow it for the day?

Student B
Yeah, probably, but Id need to borrow two cars or there wouldnt be enough space for all the kids.

Student A
Uh-huh.

Student B
Thats why I was going to rent the van. And then I need to find somebody else to drive too. I cant drive two cars by myself.

Student A
[Chuckles] Yeah, thats true! Well, Im sure you can probably find a volunteer, or if you wanted to save yourself the trouble of
hunting down the second driver, well... what about public transportation? Check the bus schedule. I...I think theres a bus line that
goes right past the zoo!

Student B
Yeah! Thats a possibility. But...I dont know. It might be a real challenge, supervising the kids on the bus.

Student A
[Chuckles]

Student B
Sometimes they are a handful when they get excited. Its an option, though.

107
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109
 Task 6

110

In this lecture, the professor talks about two__
The first ______is______, which means that_________, for example_____. The
second______is_______, which means that_________, for example_________.

Money

Professor
So, lets talk about money. What is money? Well, typically people think of coins and paper bills as
money . . . but thats using a somewhat narrow definition of the term. A broad definition is this: [slowly]
money is anything that people can use to make purchases with. Since many things can be used to
make purchases, money can have many different forms. Certainly, coins and bills are one form of
money. People exchange goods and services for coins or paper bills, and they use this money . . .
these bills . . . to obtain other goods and services. For example, you might give a taxi driver five dollars
to purchase a ride in his taxi. And he in turn gives the five dollars to a farmer to buy some
vegetables . . .
But, as I said, coins and bills arent the only form of money under this broad definition. Some societies
make use of a barter system. Basically, in a barter system people exchange goods and services
directly for other goods and services. The taxi driver, for example, might give a ride to a farmer in
exchange for some vegetables. Since the vegetables are used to pay for a service, by our broad
definition the vegetables are used in barter as a form of money.
Now, as I mentioned, theres also a second . . . a narrower definition of money. In the United States
only coins and bills are legal tendermeaning that by law, a seller must accept them as payment. The
taxi driver must accept coins or bills as payment for a taxi ride. OK? But in the U.S., the taxi driver is
not required to accept vegetables in exchange for a ride. So a narrower definition of money might be
whatever is legal tender in a society, whatever has to be accepted as payment.

A: In this lecture, the professor talks about the two definitions of money. The first is broad definition which
is anything that people can use to make purchases with. For example, a taxi driver earns 5 dollars for a
taxi ride, he can then use the 5 dollars to buy some vegetables. While in a barter system, the driver can
accept vegetable for payment too. The second is narrower definition of money, which is the only legal
tender to be accepted in a society. Take the same taxi driver for example, in the United States, only coins
and bills are legal tender, so he must accept paper bills or coins but vegetable as payment.

111
 Professor
Because the United States is such a large country, it took time for a common national culture to
emerge. One hundred years ago there was very little communication among the different regions of
the United States. One result of this lack of communication was that people around the United States
had very little in common with one another. People in different parts of the country spoke differently,
dressed differently, and behaved differently. But connections among Americans began to increase
thanks to two technological innovations: the automobile and the radio.
Automobiles began to be mass produced in the 1920s, which meant they became less expensive and
more widely available. Americans in small towns and rural communities now had the ability to travel
with ease to nearby cities. They could even take vacations to other parts of the country. The increased
mobility provided by automobiles changed peoples attitudes and created links that had not existed
before. For example, people in small towns began to adopt behaviors, clothes, and speech that were
popular in big cities or in other parts of the country.
As more Americans were purchasing cars, radio ownership was also increasing dramatically.
Americans in different regions of the country began to listen to the same popular radio programs and
musical artists. People repeated things they heard on the radiosome phrases and speech patterns
heard in songs and radio programs began to be used by people all over the United States. People
also listened to news reports on the radio. They heard the same news throughout the country,
whereas in newspapers much news tended to be local. Radio brought Americans together by offering
them shared experiences and information about events around the country.

A: In the lecture, the professor talks about how automobiles and radio brought Americans together. When
automobile became inexpensive, people from small towns could travel to cities or other parts of the
country. And thats how they started acting like people from those other regions and dressed and spoke in
the same ways too. Also, when radio became popular, people from different parts of the country began
listening to the same programs and the same news reports, so they began to speak alike and have
similar experiences and ideas.

112
I'd like to point out something about art from the past. In previous eras, making art was
expensive. Most artists required patrons merely to afford the paint, canvas, and
everything else they needed, and these patrons, naturally, kept most of the artwork in
their homes for their own personal viewing. This made art inaccessible to most people.
The artists, quite understandably, didn't appreciate this, so they came up with two ways
to enable the public to admire their work.
For one, many artists began using cheaper materials. This let them work without a
sponsor. This way, they could produce the art they wanted to and also retain possession
of their art. They were then free to display it wherever they wanted to. This, naturally,
permitted many more people to see their work. Of course, one drawback to this
approach was that the lower quality of the paint and other materials meant their work
often faded quickly. Fortunately, many of these works can now be restored
using modern methods.
Another thing artists did was to display their art both outdoors and in public places.
Remember that artists didn't just do paintings. They did statues, sculptures, and many
other kinds of art. Take a look at any cathedral. There is art everywhere. Look at the
statues and the stained glass window in them. They're all works of art. And consider one
of the greatest examples of art anywhereMichelangelo's work in the Sistine Chapel.
How many thousands or millions of people have seen his artwork? He attained what
most artists strive for for the greatest number of people to admire his work.

113
While we often point out how humans benefit by cooperating with one another, we
should also note that many animals act in concert, too. In fact, without cooperating with
one another, many animals would be much less well off. For example, many animals
cooperate to maximize their protection from predators while others work together in
order to locate and exploit new food sources.
Let's think about deer first. With their antlers, you'd imagine they wouldn't need any
protection. But what about does, fawns, and older deer? Wolves and other predators
can take down a deer easily, especially by hunting in packs. So what do deer do? Well,
one defensive measure they use is to feed in groups. This helps keep them safe from
predators. How? Well, for one, they can alert one another more quickly when predators
are nearby, which allows younger, older, or weaker deer to hide or escape. Second,
there's safety in numbers. Predators are far more likely to attack a single animal than a
large group of them.
Now, how about honeybees? They work together, too. You've heard of the honeybee's
dance, right? That's a textbook case of animal cooperation. When looking for food,
honeybees all head In different directions. When they find a potential food source, they
return to the hive. Then, they perform a complicated dance, which scientists believe,
actually gives the direction, distance, and amount of food located. This allows the bees
to abandon unpromising searches and move on to food sources that are closer and
which will be able to provide more food for the hive.

114
Let's move on to pollination and how flowers attract pollinators. Most flowers get
pollinated by insects, so let's focus on them. You've probably noticed that flowers
have their own distinct appearances and smells. Don't think those are for your benefit,
okay? They actually look and smell those ways in order to attract insects to
pollinate them. Allow me to explain in detail.
One major attractor, unsurprisingly, is appearance. It's the most important one of all.
Some insects can see colors well. So, there are some colors that, depending upon the
insect, make it just want to stop and sit down on the flower. For example, many
butterflies are attracted to the colors red and yellow, two of the three primary colors.
Think of the painted daisy. Here's a picture... It's got red petals and a yellow center.
Butterflies simply won't miss being attracted to that flower. It's irresistible. So
remember... That's why we see so many different colors of flowers. They are attracting
various kinds of insects to pollinate them.
Odor is the second most common attractor used. Unfortunately for flowers, most insects
can't differentiate colors. They're essentially colorblind. But they can recognize different
scents, that is, smells. Take the moth. You know, those insects that look like butterflies
but which always appear at night. Well, they're attracted to, um, sweet smells. Jasmine
is one example. Now, get a load of this. Jasmine produces a strong, sweet smell... but
only at night, which is the perfect time to attract moths. Amazing, huh? So the moths,
having been attracted, will be able to pollinate the jasmine plants. And that's nature at
work.

115
Did everyone do their reading last night? Excellent. Then I'd like to quickly review a
couple of the advertising techniques you read about. As you should recall, two
techniques were primarily focused on. They were the direct and indirect methods of
persuasion. I'd like to give a couple of examples of them now.
All ads try to persuade people to purchase the products which they're promoting. The
direct method is one popular way. When using this, advertisers note the features of their
products that make them extraordinary and different from other similar products. They
may cite various facts and statistics that will tell viewers exactly why they should go out
and purchase that particular product. For example, a car manufacturer using direct
advertising techniques might stress how safe the car is according to recent statistics. Or
it might mention the car's gas mileage and note how it's much more economical than its
competitors.
On the other hand, there is also the indirect method of advertising. Here, advertisers
attempt to persuade customers by using association. They might show the results of
using or purchasing their product. For example, let's go back to car ads. Perhaps the
car being sold is rather ordinary. Well, the manufacturer is going to show people smiling
while they're driving. The mom and dad will be in the front listening to music while the
kids in the back will be playing games or looking out the window to admire the scenery.
That's an example of indirect advertising. The company's trying to make P o t e ^ buyers
think they'H be as happy as the people in the ad if they purchase that company's
product.

116
2012.01.08

1. Talk about an activity you participated in recently, did everyone have a good time?

A: The activity that Ive participated in recently was Spring Festival, when I was having
fun with my family. In the daytime, we fired the firecrackers which represent a new
beginning and bring luck to the family. Then our family visited neighbors in new clothes
and children like me in our family got some lucky money. In the evening, all our family
members stayed at home and made jiaozi together which is the traditional Chinese
food. At 8 oclock in the evening, we fired the firecrackers again to celebrate this
moment. Then everyone got together to watch Spring Festival Gala on TV and talked
with each other happily.

2. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? A sixteen-year old is not mature
enough to drive.

A: I agree with the statement that a sixteen-year old is not mature enough to drive. First
of all, our brains are not fully matured, so we lack some decision-making skills. Lots of
young drivers at or under sixteen-year old I know are either fearful or hesitant on the
road. It's a generalization, yes, but true for the most part. Second, our body is also not
fully matured, so we cannot handle the long-time or even short-time driving properly. For
example, one of my sixteen-year old friends, July, crashed her car simply because she
was texting while driving, after getting tired by stretching her arms for a long time.

117
2012.01.15

1. Describe a person whom you would like to spend time with. Explain why you would
like to spend time with this person. Include reasons and details to support your
response.

A person who whom Id like to spend my time with is my brother Bob. First of all, Bob is
a super funny guy. Hes alway telling jokes, making funny faces and body movements to
make everyone laugh. When hes around, we are relaxed and happy and can forget
about all the troubles in our life. Second, he has an open mind. Because hes open to
new ideas, hed never argue with me when we have different opinions on things. He
doesnt get worked up and lose his patience like the rest of us do when we dont see
eye to eye. So its very easy being with him, I dont feel any pressure when talking to
him, I can just be myself in front of him and be completely honest.

2. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Students should always study
in quiet places. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

I agree with the statement that students should always study in quiet places. To begin
with, I cant focus myself when study in a noisy environment. For example, its almost
impossible for me to concentrate in my dorm room, because people are always talking
on their phone, pumping out music through loud speaker and playing computer games
at a high volume. When Im studying, I need quiet to read all my research materials and
books, and when I work on my paper, Im not just typing, Im thinking at the same time.

118
2012.02.05

1. What suggestions would you give if the school wants to protect the environment on
campus.

The suggestions I would give to a school in order to protect the environment on campus
are the following. First of all, encourage students to take public transportations rather
than driving to school everyday. This can be achieved by lowering the price of bus fair,
even increase the cost of on campus parking fees. Second, encourage students to
recycle when ever possible. For example, put brightly labeled bins for recycle waste in
every study area and print room where students throw away lots of paper waste.
Encourage students to use ebooks and type up their reports only before handing it in.
Reduce the number of printers around campus.

2. Some people prefer to buy movies or books that they like, others prefer to rent.
Which would you choose? Explain why.

I prefer buying movies or books rather renting them for the following reasons. First of all,
when you buy, you get to keep them as long as you want. You get compete ownership.
That means you dont have to watch the movie or read the book in a hurry. And you can
watch them for how many ever times you wish down the future. But when you rent, you
have to return it no matter you can finish it or not. Second, many of the books from the
library miss pages. And not all of them are in good conditions. Movies DVDs I rent
sometimes get scratches on them what make them unplayable. But when you buy, you
can take proper care or your books or DVDs.

119
2012.02.11
1. Your friend is considering keeping a pet, what kind of pet and advice would you give
him?

If my friend is considering keeping a pet, I would certainly suggest him to get a puppy.
First of all, as a dog owner, I think dogs are the best companion one can ask for. Unlike
cats, which can be a little snobby, dogs are way more friendly. And they are more aware
of owners emotions and feelings since dogs pays more attention at you rather than
cats. If my friend do get a dog, I would suggest him to potty train the puppy as soon as
he brings it back from the breeder, that will save him a lot of trouble down the road.
Also, take the puppy out plenty to get the excise it needs.

2. Some people prefer to read a novel, others prefer to read other type of publication
such as magazines. Which do you prefer? Explain why

I enjoy reading magazines the most. First of all, magazines are visually intriguing. I find
the all the photographs in the magazines amazing to look at. And when I see a
photograph that I love, I can take that page out and put it in my scrap book. Second
reason I like reading magazines is that they have the most interesting page layouts
comparing to other books. That makes magazines fun to read. Finally, I am studying
Advertising in school. There are countless high quality advertisements in the
magazines, some people may find them annoying, but they work perfectly for me, I can
get many inspirations from them.

120
2012.02.17

1. Describe the difference between two singers that you familiar with.

Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley are two very different singers. Michael Jackson is
known as the King of Pop and Elvis Presley is known as the Kind of Rock. They are
both known for their odd sense of style. If you are dressed in a bedazzled bellbottom
pant suit, everybody will say you are dressed like Elvis. If you wear a white t-shirt, black
pants, a black fedora, and a single glove, everybody will say you are dressed like
Michael Jackson. Both died young and both were known for their amazing performance
abilities. The style of music both singers performed, however, was very different. Elvis
would serenade with a smooth voice and the rhythmic strumming of his guitar. Michael
Jackson would get everybody dancing with an up-tempo chorus and a strong back beat.

2. who do you prefer to get advice, older people or peers? Why?

I prefer getting advice from older people. Firstly, I think older people could give more
practical advice for us, because they are more experienced and sophisticated than
peers. Secondly, older people are more caring and helpful. And they also can see
things fairly from different angles. In this way, they can provide us with earnest advice to
help us solve the problem when we face difficulties. In addition, older people may
understand us well so their advice is more practical and effective for us to make a
choice or deal with difficulties.

121
2012.02.24

1.Talk about an activity you recently attended at school.

An interesting activity I recently had at school is our annual party. First reason is that all
the students put on such a great show that day. Some sang, some danced, some even
did magic tricks that made people disappear. If it wasnt for the party, I wouldnt imagine
there are so many talented kids in my school. Also, this party gave me a chance to meet
and talk with students from other years. Im a very shy person, and get nervous easily
talking to people in quiet place. But during the party, everyone was really excited, so I
was more relaxed to have small conversations with them.

2. Some people think that one needs to be talented to become an artist, others believe
that anyone could be an artist with years of practices. Which do you agree with?
Explain why.

I agree with the statement that everyone can become an artist with enough practice.
First of all, art is a craft. To know your craft and get good at it takes many years of
practices. Take photography for example, try giving a painter with zero photo taking
experience a camera and let him take pictures for a day, it wont be easy for him to
produce good shoots because he will be spending most of the day struggling, trying to
figure out how to use a camera. Same thing happens when you give a paintbrush to a
photographer who never painted in his life.

122
2012.02.25

1. What do you think of pet keeping?

Well, I dont like keeping pet. First of all, its a waste of time. coz you have to take care
of them, feed them, give them a bath, trim their hair, and play with them, if they are sick,
you have to take them to the hospital, those things will take up a lot of times. As a
student, I dont have so much time, the more time I spend with my pet, the less time I
spend on my study. Second, pet will make noise, sometimes its very annoying,
especially when you are trying to get something done, and it makes you difficult to
concentrate on your work. For example, last time, I was studying for my final test, my
friend Jack brought a little puppy to my room; it jumped ups and down, made up a lot of
noise which distracted me from my study. So I really dont like to keep pet.

2. Some people decide which career they want to pursue before going to college, others
do it the other way around. Which approach do you think is better?

I prefer going to college first then decide the career later. First of all, by doing this way, it
will be much easier for them to make up the right decision. In the first year of the
college, school will offer a lot of foundation courses such as science, math, art, the
purpose is to help us look at the world in a wider perspective, with the knowledge we
learn and the information we have, it will be much easier for us to find out pour interest
and decide our career. Take my uncle as an example, when he was in his middle
school, he wanted to be a scientist in the future, but after he went into the university, he
found out his real interest was art, then he changed his mind, he began leaning art, now
he is a famous artist in my hometown.

123
2012.03.03
1. For better understanding of nutrition and health, the school decides to open a cooking
class; do you think it is a reasonable decision?

I believe it is a reasonable decision to open a cooking class for students to better

understand nutrition and health. Because firstly the obesity rate is dangerously high that
we need to pay more attention of spreading the notion of eating nutritious food so that
our children can grow up in a healthy way. Secondly, a cooking class can facilitate a
students self-managing ability; they would have a chance to learn to how to take care of
themselves before they leave school, which can better prepare them when they are
entering the society. So that is the why I believe opening a cooking class is a
reasonable decision.

2.Doyouagreeordisagreewiththefollowingstatement?Childrenwilllearnmoreifthet
eachersarekindandfriendly.

I agree with the statement that children will learn more if the teachers are kind and
friendly, because firstly that children tend to be more communicable if they trust their
teacher. A kind and friendly teacher would gain childrens trust easier than the teacher
who is tough and serious. Second, kind and friendly teachers can make students be
more willing to ask them questions when they have difficulties in their studies, because
teachers are usually the authoritative figure that intimidates children; yet a kind and
friendly teacher can develop intimacy with children, which could help them to learn
more.

124
2012.03.04
1. For better understanding of nutrition and health, the school decides to open a cooking
class; do you think it is a reasonable decision?

I believe it is a reasonable decision to open a cooking class for students to better

understand nutrition and health. Because firstly the obesity rate is dangerously high that
we need to pay more attention of spreading the notion of eating nutritious food so that
our children can grow up in a healthy way. Secondly, a cooking class can facilitate a
students self-managing ability; they would have a chance to learn to how to take care of
themselves before they leave school, which can better prepare them when they are
entering the society. So that is the why I believe opening a cooking class is a
reasonable decision.

2.Doyouagreeordisagreewiththefollowingstatement?Childrenwilllearnmoreifthet
eachersarekindandfriendly.

I agree with the statement that children will learn more if the teachers are kind and
friendly, because firstly that children tend to be more communicable if they trust their
teacher. A kind and friendly teacher would gain childrens trust easier than the teacher
who is tough and serious. Second, kind and friendly teachers can make students be
more willing to ask them questions when they have difficulties in their studies, because
teachers are usually the authoritative figure that intimidates children; yet a kind and
friendly teacher can develop intimacy with children, which could help them to learn
more.

125
2012.03.10

1. What suggestions would you like to give a friend who wants to improve his grade?

If my friend wants to improve his grade, I would suggest the following two ways. First of
all, ask questions more frequently, especially the professors. When he confronts with
tough math problems after the new class and cannot figure them out individually, he
could try to contact with the professor to explain the concept as well as several solutions
to the question. Secondly, practice often. As an old Chinese saying tells us, Practice
makes perfect. For example, if he does more practice in the concept of Newtons law of
motion in physics, he would deeper his understanding of it, as a result, increasing his
ability of solving such physical problems. These are two ways Id like to advise to
improve his grade.

2. Some people play games for enjoyment, some people play games for winning. Which
one do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.

In fact, I believe students should play for fun rather than play for victory. First, as we
know students are always tired and exhausted nowadays, resulting from their
homework, the pressure of entering into a good university, many forms of contests they
take part in. In this way, they very need an outlet to release this stress. Playing for fun
enables them to enjoy themselves in the sports; they can talk to their classmates, so
that they wouldnt be overwhelmed. Also, Ive heard many students injured themselves
during some sports matches. Students are easily got excited and play too hard if they
are playing for the final victory. This is not good for their health.

126
2012.03.18

1. Aretheliving standardsofpeopletoday betterthanthepast?

Oh, yes! I totally agree! The living standards are getting so much better than before!
Nowadays it is much easier to buy food! We used to buy them along the street where it
could be polluted by the gas of the cars passed by. Now we can buy them in
supermarkets! Whats more, it is much easier for us to watch a movie than before. We
had fewer movie theaters in the past, so that people had to walk for miles to watch a
movie, but now, movie theaters are everywhere! We can enjoy our lives in a much
easier way!

2. Do you agree or disagree with the statement that internet plays a big role in our lives?

Internet plays a very important role in my life! First of all, its changing the way I
communicate. Take emails for example, it used to be the case that when I wanted to
reach someone in the US, I have to go to the post office to buy envelops and stamps
before mailing out the letter, and the other person has to wait for it to arrive for weeks,
but today, as soon as I click on send, the other person can see it right away, theres
zero waiting. Second, people obtain the majority of information from the internet these
days, I myself can survive without TV, newspapers or magazines, but I dont think I can
make it for more than a week without the internet, because thats where I get all the
news, weather reports and other kinds of information from.

127
2012.03.24

1. Is it a good idea to evaluateprofessors by the end of the semester?

I have to say it is such ridiculous idea and such inhuman behavior to evaluate
professors by the end of the semester. First, a good professor might not be a good
teacher, or lets say, a good public speech maker. If they have to be evaluated by the
not so bright students, the real good ones might be given a low grade while the ones
who are good at bragging blah could be given a higher grade. It would be too unfair that
great professors might decide to leave the school for a more considerate one. Second,
It will give professors pressure that students are their lords that they have to be treated
as kings and queens. This will make students disrespect professors and they might
believe that they can disrespect whoever they want in the society.

2. Would you prefer gifts bought from the shops or the ones made by hand? Please
explain why.

I would usually prefer gifts that are made by hand than the ones that are bought from
shops. When people make gifts by themselves and give them to me, I always think of
them as the most precious thing I've got and feel so thankful! For it is a symbol of true
friendship. I used to make cards for my friends many years ago as well, and I know how
much it takes to complete the work. Besides, I don't want to owe anybody anything, if
they bought me expensive gifts, I might start to worry about how to pay them back.
Usually, I would have to spend almost just as much to buy them gifts back, and all that
trouble can be avoided if one just sends me a handmade gift in the first place.

128
2012.04.14

1. Lots of people shop on line now, do you think it is a good idea?

Though a lot of people started to shop on line, I still shop for things in my own way. I
follow the tradition of going to real shops instead of buying things through the internet. It
doesnt mean that Im a stubborn person, just that I did make a few tries to buy things
on line when I first heard of this new way of shopping, but they were all bad
experiencesI once bought this dress from a popular on line shop, but it turned to be a
used one The other time, I clicked on a button which connects to a picture of a
beautiful skirt, but when I received the package, it was a similar one made of cheaper
fabric Seeing is believing, I would rather walk ten miles to a shop to buy the real thing
than to waste my time looking for the not so trust worthy goods on the internet.

2. Some students prefer to join school clubs for example sports teams right after they
enter collage, while others wait until the second semester. What do you prefer?

Well, as for myself, I would love to join the clubs right after I enter collage. This is
actually what I did when I just entered my school! I took part in the Jazz group right after
I registered for the very first semester! We are only young once, and never old twice!
The problem is there are only 4 years to go in collage, if theres a good chance to
realize your dream and you put it on hold until the next semester, you might be
disturbed by other things by then and lose this wonderful chance forever! The best way
to do it is to do it right now! If there is such good club to join, I Wouldnt hesitate at all.

129
2012.04.20

1. If the school received a barrel of money, what do you wish it will be spent on? A
sports gym or a laboratory?

I would choose a laboratory, because we cant only depend on what we study during the
class hours, theres always a lot more to be discovered by ourselves after class. How
could there be any better place than a lab to go seek for those answers? A school with a
large and advanced lab would definitely provide us a better academic environment.
Sports gym is actually something we can live without. We can do sports on the
playground which is likely to be the same. Money should be spent where it is more
needed!

2. Some people believe that it is important for young people to have a part-time job as a
working experience, while others think they should spend more time on their studies.
What is your opinion and why?

I believe it is important for young people to have a part time job because of the following
reasons: firstly, being a young person especially a college student also means being a
socially independent person who is preparing to enter the society. Having a part-time
job would teach students the social knowledge which they could not learn at school.
Secondly, a part-time job will help them to understand the toughness of making money
which will definitely help them understand how to make a living and be thankful to their
parents.

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2012.04.22

1. Your friend wants to drop out of university or college , agree or disagree ?

If my friend is studying somewhere else in the world apart from my country, I might tell
him to follow his heart, but if he is studying here, I would definitely tell him not to drop
out of his uni. First of all, it is a country that doesn't look at your real ability but judges
you only by your degree. Without a degree, I'm afraid my friend would have to be
prepared for being jobless soon after he quits school. Secondly, you can't drop out of
uni and come back after years in my country like what you can do in some of the other
countries like the developed ones. It means if you regret some day in the future, you
have no way to come back.

2. N/A

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2012.04.28

1. Describe your favorite place to study. Explain why you like to study in this place.
Include reasons and examples to support your response.

My favorite place to study is in my bedroom. I have a nice desk with a comfortable chair,
and if I need anything, I know where it is in my room. I dont really like studying in the
library, because it too quiet. Whenever anybody makes a noise, I can hear it very clearly
and I automatically look up to see what it is. Working in the library is very distracting for
me. Also, if I get hungry, they dont let you eat in the library. If Im studying in my
bedroom, I can easily go downstairs and get a snack from the kitchen. In addition, if I
have to study really late, the library always closes too early. If I work in my bedroom, I
can stay up as late as I need to, without disturbing anybody.

2. Some people prefer a job which deals with the same tasks every day. Others prefer a
job which deals with many different tasks. Which do you prefer and why?

I would prefer a job that has a little bit of variation. Sitting at a desk all day doing the
same thing over and over again would bore me out of my mind. I can't imagine that that
kind of job would be interesting at all. I think I am too intelligent to sit and do a mindless
task all day. Also I think those jobs will be taken over by computers soon. I would rather
have a job that requires me to go around and do lots of different things. Like teaching:
Every day there is a new lesson and I never know how class is going to turn out. I have
to be spontaneous in the classroom and I think I would prefer a job like that over any
other type of job.

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2012.05.12

1. If one of your friends wants to run a restaurant, what is your opinion or advice on food
and location?

As far as food is concerned, I would advise him to make the recipe unique enough in
order to be distinguishable by the average consumer, because, you know, there are too
many restaurants out there and the restaurant business is quite competitive. So I think
one of the keys to a restaurant's success is having a recipe that stands out from the
crowd. Also, I would advise my friend to develop an attractive presentation for each dish
because appearance is just as important as taste. Location is also an important factor to
take into consideration. I would recommend him to aim for a site in a highly visible
location, in an area that hosts a significant number of customers that the restaurant
wants to attract.

2. Do you agree that students nowadays work harder in study than before?

I definitely agree with the idea that students nowadays work harder. It is especially the
case in China where there is an ever increasing population. Here in china, Parents are
eager to make their only child a versatile genius capable of multiple skills such as
playing pianos, calligraphy dancing and so on; so students have to worker like crazy to
meet their parents high expectations for them. It is also due to the gloomy economic
prospect for the whole world. It is not uncommon to find a vacancy with a hundred
graduates competing for. Therefore, each student has to work harder to distinguish
themselves from the rest.

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2012.05.20

1. Your friend has suddenly received a lot of money. What do you think is the best way
for your friend to spend this money? Use specific reasons and examples from your
experience to explain your answer.

If my friend happened to receive a large amount of money, I would first suggest him to
travel around the world, which will definitely broaden his horizon and open up his own
world. Second, I believe it is necessary for him to spend this money on the education,
like learning a second language or another musical instrument, those are the tools that
helps you to understand human feelings better and introduces you to the realm of art.
Last, I would suggest him to give the rest of the money to the charity, and spend it on
people who eagerly need it than he does. The satisfaction that he gains simply by
helping others will be something that cannot be exchanged by bills.

2. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? People should always wear
fashion clothes. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

I believe fashionable cloth does not suit with anyone. First people should not blindly
follow the trend, because trends are always made by several fashion designers who
control the whole market. Second, fashion cloth may not be suitable in every occasion.
For example, if you are in an auction or at a ball, you should always wear formally.
Third, only by wearing clothes that are suitable with your characteristic can people be
comfortable with the environment around you. If you are very low key, you should wear
some simple but classic designs like the black and white pattern. If you are passionate,
the red dress will always enhance your confidence, since you are what you wear.

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2012.05.26

1. Describe some ways to reduce air pollution.

The world is getting polluted day by day. For these pollution humans are the most
sufferer. So, here are my suggestions to reduce air pollution. First, we should put in
mind that whenever we throw our garbage we must make sure to segregate the
biodegradable, non-biodegradable and hazardous trash. Make sure that no one should
burn plastics, tires, slippers and rubbers. Second, planting more trees, trees can lessen
or help reduce air pollution because they get their nutrients from carbon dioxide and will
let out oxygen, and oxygen is good for our body. To sum up, we must take good care of
our environment because we only have one earth, and it is not yet late to change.

2. Some people prefer to live in old and historic houses. Some prefer new and modern
buildings. Which one do you prefer and why?

I prefer to live in new and modern buildings. There are two chief reasons. First, since
those old houses were built decades ago without improving the structure, they are more
dangerous than new and modern buildings. If I live in an old and historic house, I will
image that it would collapse one day and make me injured, which pose potential hazard
to my lives. Second, it is not convenient to live in an old and historic houses for its
facilities are always in poor condition, which may breakdown from time to time. Besides,
compared with new and modern buildings, some old and historic houses spoil the
cityscape. Thats why I choose to live in new and modern buildings.

135
2012.05.26

1. Describe some ways to reduce air pollution.

The world is getting polluted day by day. For these pollution humans are the most
sufferer. So, here are my suggestions to reduce air pollution. First, we should put in
mind that whenever we throw our garbage we must make sure to segregate the
biodegradable, non-biodegradable and hazardous trash. Make sure that no one should
burn plastics, tires, slippers and rubbers. Second, planting more trees, trees can lessen
or help reduce air pollution because they get their nutrients from carbon dioxide and will
let out oxygen, and oxygen is good for our body. To sum up, we must take good care of
our environment because we only have one earth, and it is not yet late to change.

2. Some people prefer to live in old and historic houses. Some prefer new and modern
buildings. Which one do you prefer and why?

I prefer to live in new and modern buildings. There are two chief reasons. First, since
those old houses were built decades ago without improving the structure, they are more
dangerous than new and modern buildings. If I live in an old and historic house, I will
image that it would collapse one day and make me injured, which pose potential hazard
to my lives. Second, it is not convenient to live in an old and historic houses for its
facilities are always in poor condition, which may breakdown from time to time. Besides,
compared with new and modern buildings, some old and historic houses spoil the
cityscape. Thats why I choose to live in new and modern buildings.

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2012.06.10

1. If your friend wants to make a big purchase without having enough money, what can
she do to get enough money?

I think my friend should take time to save money up, if she wants to buy something she
couldn't afford right now. She should get a job and save up her money until she had
enough. When it comes to money, I think you shouldnt spend what you dont have.
Unless there is an emergency or other extenuating circumstances, I think it is wise to
spend within your means. If you cant afford to buy an iPhone, for example, dont borrow
money in order to do so. That is a bad habit and is how many people find themselves
overburdened with debt. Working hard to save up enough money to buy an iPhone is
also more rewarding. This will give you pride and you will enjoy your iPhone even more.

2. Do you prefer to a busy schedule or a light schedule? Explain why.

As far as I am concerned, I prefer having a busy schedule for the following reasons.
First, having a busy schedule means I can accomplish more things at a given time.
Everyones time is equal. We have the same 24 hours a day. But by choosing a busy
schedule, we can make each hour count. For example, besides taking a double major,
being the monitor of our class, I also take a lot of extracurricular activities like joining in
French drama and swimming clubs and at the same time, I am also a volunteer teacher
for a migrant workers children on the weekends. As the beginning, it was a hard job to
do all the stuff. But gradually, I learned to strike balance between study and life. By
following a busy schedule, I can do a better time management than before. Second,
having a busy schedule means our life is more organized, living little time for wandering
thoughts. Following my schedule, I know clearly what I am gonna do in the next hour, or
even the next minute. That is the secret for fulfilling all the tasks mentioned above.

137
2012.06.15

1. Which stage of life is the most important, childhood, juvenile, or adulthood? Explain
why.

I think childhood is the most important stage in ones life because of the following
reasons: First, according to various scientific researches, the best time for ones
intelligence development is in childhood, for example language acquisition and
character development etc. That explains why the pre-school educational training
market is so hot today in China. Second, childhood is the most carefree period in ones
entire life. Though parents might busy their children in various training classes, kids still
can enjoy most fun and free time in childhood compared with later life stages like
juvenile or adults for the latter two have so much pressure to handle, for example,
endless schoolwork, exams, job searching and even office politics etc.

2. Do you agree with the following statement that wealthy people should help the poor?
Explain with details and example to support your explanation.

I definitely agree that wealthy people should help the poor in a constructive way for the
following reasons: First, they are capable of doing so. After they made their fortune and
success, they dont have any financial burdens with their own lives. In paying back to
the society, which made them successful, they need to use both their money and brain
to help the poor in a constructive way. Second, nowadays the income gap between rich
and poor is so large in China. Many sociologists warned it is dangerous to be blind to
the ever-expanding divergence. The best solution, I think, is to ask the wealthy to give
back. So many rich people are indulging themselves in luxurious goods or services, it is
totally a waste and criminal considering so many are still struggling under poverty lines.
Third, they can do it in a constructive way instead of blind donation, for example building
universities, hospitals or public facilities etc., which will benefit those who need real help
instead of those lazy or drunk. A case in the point is Bill Gates and Warren Buffet, who
gave back 90% of their personal wealth to the society, rather than squandering away or
leaving wealth to their children. I think they are role models for Chinese rich people to
follow.

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2012.06.17

1. What do you think is the most challenging task for university students and why?

I think the most challenging task for university students is to have critical thinking. First,
universities in China often emphasize the facts and numbers memorization, this would
lead to a problem that students would not be able to analyze situations in a critical way.
A survey done by a university professor shows that 70% of university students struggle
with critical thinking. That is a huge waste on educational resources. Second, critical
thinking is very crucial for ones entire life esp. after graduation. There are so many
things that would not be taught in class, but would appear definitely in the future. Unless
we have trained our ability to think critically, can we overcome the difficulties that we will
face. That is why I think critical thinking is the most challenging task for university
students.

2. Do you agree or disagree that to be successful, a person should study in the

university.

I agree that attending a university will make the possibility of success higher for a
normal student. First of all, a university provides you with a solid foundation of
knowledge, including mathematics, literature, and geography, which will become the
common knowledge for you to communicate with others. Second, you will be taught to
manage yourself as well as others when you are involved in a group. And you will learn
how to do a perfect time-management when you are under huge pressure, this is the
define skill after you enter the job market. Third, attending university allows you to meet
people with different characteristics, and knowing how to get along with them, even
make them want to help you is the first step toward a successful leader, because no one
can achieve success just by himself. Thats why I agree with this opinion.

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2012.06.30

1. Describe an activity that you enjoyed doing with your family in your childhood. Explain
why it was enjoyable to do this activity with your family. Please include reasons and
details in your response.

Well, I think the activity I enjoy doing with my family in my childhood is travelling. My
parents love travelling, when I was a kid, they often took me to travel, We have been
travelled to many different countries such as Japan, England, Africa, by travelling, I can
experience some thing I have never experience before. For example, when I was 8
years old, we travelled to Africa, the place we stayed is a traditional African hut. Inside is
very comfortable but no electricity. The challenge there is to try to learn how to live
without the creature comfort that we are used to. Like a computer, like a TV. I think this
kind of things can push me or challenge me to expend my horizon. I really enjoy that.

2. Some prefer to record things, such as taking pictures, writing diaries, others are not.
Which do you prefer?

I prefer not to record those old things, as an old saying goes, let bygones be bygones,
Its a waste of time to record those old things. For example, when I was in my middle
school, I wrote diary every evening, trying to record the things happened at daytime, but
it took up a lot of time, I even didnt have enough time to get my homework done, coz
the more time I spend on writing diary, the less time I spend on my study. Besides,
those things already happened, its history, its past-tense. Why should we look back. I
think nowadays its very difficult for people to be in the moment, we always think about
what happens yesterday, what were gonna do next, but whats happening right now in
front of them, are they enjoying the moment in front of them, thats the most important
thing.

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2012.07.14

1. Among photographer, musician, and painter, who do you respect most? why?

Among photographer, musician, and painter, I respect musician most. The reasons are
based on the following factors. First and foremost, musicians bring us so many great
works which make our daily life more colorful. A good music created by a great musician
always helps us lead a more positive, happier, more effective life. Secondly, because of
musician, we have chance to appreciate different style of music with various
background. Therefore, musicians contribute greatly for international culture exchange.
At last, musicians enrich our emotion which means we can have a deeper feeling about
human world.

2. Which do you prefer to read, paper book or e-book? Why?

I prefer reading paper book instead of e-book. Well, firstly, I think paper book doesntt
have as much bad effect on our eyes as e-books. Therefore it is healthier way for me to
read paper book, although e- book is quite popular nowadays. Secondly, printed words
give more comfort, enjoyment or personal touch than electronic text. I like the feeling of
turning the pages and taking note on the book. Though computers are changing the
reading habits, I still choose to read printed books or paper books.

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2012.07.15

1. Your school want to make some improvement, what kind of improvement do you think
they can make ?

Well, I think there are a lot of improvements they can make. First of all, about the food. I
think school cafeteria can provide some healthy low calories food for students, as we all
know, nowadays many students become bigger and bigger than before, because of the
junk food they ate. Second, its about living. School should renew students dormitory,
offer free wifi service for students to use. And the school should enlarge the library, and
change the policy, they should make it easier for students to borrow books not harder.
Now, there are few books in the library, and they only allow students to borrow 2 books
at one time. But our dorm is really far from the library, it takes about 30 minutes walk, so
its really inconvenient.

2. Do you think that bicycle will be replaced by the modern vehicle such as cars or bus?

I think definitely no. As the development of our society, more and more people have
their own cars, there is no doubt about that cars are much faster than bike, but I think
they can not replace the bike. First of all, riding a bike is much safer than driving a car.
Because its fast, it will be more likely to get hurt during an accident. Another advantage
of riding a bike is that you dont need to worry about the traffic jam and finding the
parking lot. You can park anywhere you like, its very convenient. Finally, its a very good
exercise for people to ride a bike. Especially for those people who sit in the office all
day, riding a bike can help them keep fit and remain healthy. So I think bicycles will not
be replaced by cars.

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2012.07.22

1. Describe a change in your country. It could be a social, economical or political

change. Explain how this change influenced people in your country.

First of all, my country is china and I think the biggest change in my country is the
economical change. As the development of the economy and the open door policy,
china becomes more and more powerful than before, and our life has greatly changed.
Take my family as an example, now we live in a nice house, we have a fancy car, and
we even take one or two trips every year. Now Im planning to go to America for my
further study. But when I was a kid, our life was very tough, my parents struggled at
times to pay the bills and we didnt even have enough food to eat. Now things changed,
we live a better life than before and we feel happier than before.

2. Some students prefer to live alone or live with their friends when they study abroad.
Other students prefer to live with local family when they study abroad. Which way do
you prefer and why?

Well, I prefer to live with local family. First of all, it can help me to avoid the homesick. If
I live by myself, I might feel lonely. I might think of my parents. But if I live with local
family, I will have someone to accompany, some one to talk with, and I will be happier.
Besides, living with local family, I can practice the local language with them and I can
experience something I have never experience before. like the different culture. Last
time, when I travelled to America, I lived with the local family for a week, it really
broaden my horizon. They told me a lot of American idioms and slang, and introduced
some American holidays such Christmas day to me, and they even shared with me a lot
of interesting stories. I had a great time. So if I study abroad, I will definitely choose to
live with local family.

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2012.07.28

1. Your school is panning to allow students to keep pet in the dorm, What do you think
about this?

Well, I think its a bad idea. First of all, dormitory is not your home, there are going be
four students share one room, keeping pets will interrupt other students. Try to imagine,
when you are studying for a big test, a little dog jumps up and down, barking at you,
mess up with your room, what a horrible picture. Last time, my dorm mate brought a
little puppy to our dorm, it is very cute, but the little puppy just jumped onto my bed and
pee on my sheet, it drove me crazy. Besides, some students may be allergy to the fur or
the smell, keeping pet at dorm, its gonna kill them. So I think its a bad idea to allow
students to keep pets at dorm.

2. Some people believe that university students should choose their major in the first
year of school while other people believe that its better for them to choose their major
in their second year. What do you prefer, why ?

Well, I think its better for them to choose major in the second year of school, then they
can make a better choice. Normally speaking, In the first year of the university, students
are required to take many foundation courses which include many different subjects. Its
really good for them, because these kind of things can push them or challenge them to
expand their horizon, and they will have variety information from different industry.
Through learning these subjects, they will ultimately find out the subjects they like or the
subject that they are really good at. It can help them to look at the whole situations and
make decision off. So I think its better for students to choose their major in the second
year of university.

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2012.07.28

1. What do you think we should do to decrease the usage of car or other vehicle and
solve the traffic problems?

Well, this is a very good question. As the development of our society, almost every
family has a car, some families even have more than one car, and it did cause a lot of
traffic problems. Take Beijing as an example, Beijing is not only famous for the
Forbidden City but also traffic jam especially in the rush hour. I think the best way is to
provide people with free public transportation such as bus or subway, and encourage
people to take that instead of driving their own car. Government should develop more
bus lines and bus stations and separate the bus line from the car and make sure they
will be on time according the schedule. People will never be late by taking those buses.
By this way, I think people will give up driving their car and take the public transportation
and the number of the car will be decreased.

2. Do you think government should take responsibility and spend money to protect
those endangered species or the individual should carry the responsibility and spend
money on it.

Well, I think its the governments responsibility and they should spend money on
protecting and saving those endangered animals. First of all they can do a better job
than we do, they have more money and power to get things done. They can separate
some lands and set up the protection zone, create the suitable environment for those
species to live in and the government can also publish the protection law. Any one who
breaks the law will be punished. Besides, they also need to hire some professional
people to do some research and use the high technology to preserve some particular
species. Its a huge project, its impossible for individuals to do that. so I think
government should take the responsibility and spend money on that.

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