UNIT 1 : THE SCIENCE OF SHOPPING
1. Do you assume that an item with a high price is always good quality? Explain.
2. In your view, which kinds of commercial buildings generally have the best design:
stores, restaurants, or office buildings?
3. Would you agree that working in retail is good experience for a teenager?
4. In what ways do stores encourage consumers to buy things they do not really need? 5. Where do you
shop to get the best bargains? What bargains have you found recently?
6. What is one past purchase that you regret buying? Explain.
7. When you have to study something complex, what study techniques do you find effective?
8. What do you say when you bump into someone? Are there times when an apology isn't necessary?
9. Who is most likely to make you alter your behavior and why: your family, your friends, or celebrities?
10. Would you agree that anything which is enjoyable could become addictive?
Yes, I would agree that anything which is enjoyable has the potential to become addictive,
though it depends on the individual and the context. Enjoyable activities, like playing video
games, eating delicious food, or even exercising, can provide a sense of pleasure or reward.
Over time, if someone finds that activity fulfilling, it leads to repeted engagement even an
obsession ,
For example, people might get addicted to social media, where the constant interaction and
validation can feel rewarding. However, I think the difference between something being simply
enjoyable and becoming addictive lies in how much it starts to interfere with other aspects of
life, like responsibilities or relationships.
That said, it’s important to remember that not everyone who enjoys something will become
addicted to it. It really depends on hơw someone Manages their ime and prioirities
11. What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of shopping a market?
Shopping at a market has several advantages and disadvantages.
One advantage is the variety and freshness of products. Markets often offer fresh produce, local
goods, and unique items that may not be available in supermarkets. Additionally, prices can be
more affordable, especially when buying directly from vendors, and there’s often room for
bargaining.
On the downside, markets can be crowded and chaotic, which might make shopping less
enjoyable for some people.
Overall, while markets offer a more personalized and potentially cheaper shopping experience,
they can be less convenient and sometimes less comfortable.
12. Have you visited an outdoor market? If so, how was the experience ? if not, would you like to
shop at an outdoor
Yes, I have visited outdoor markets a few times, and the experience was always enjoyable. I
particularly like the vibrant atmosphere, with vendors selling fresh produce, handmade goods,
and local products. I remember one market I visited had a variety of food stalls offering delicious
street food, and I loved trying different flavors. Overall, it’s a fun and immersive experience that
allows you to interact with the community while discovering unique items.
13. Do you think markets like this will still exist 50 years from now? Why or why not?
I believe outdoor markets will still exist in 50 years, though they might evolve. While online
shopping and supermarkets are growing, outdoor markets offer a unique experience that many
people value, like the personal interaction with vendors and the sense of community.
Additionally, as people become more interested in sustainability and supporting local
businesses, outdoor markets could become even more popular. However, they might adapt to
new technologies or trends, such as offering online ordering or using eco-friendly practices.
14. If you need to buy clothes, where do you usually go shopping? Why?
I usually go shopping at shopping malls or online stores. Malls offer a wide range of brands and
styles, so I can find different options in one place. I also prefer shopping online because it’s
more convenient, and I can easily compare prices and find deals. Plus, online shopping lets me
browse at my own pace without feeling rushed.
16. If you could go anywhere on vacation, where would you go? Why?
If I could go anywhere on vacation, I would choose Japan. I’ve always been fascinated by its
rich culture, history, and natural beauty. From the bustling city of Tokyo to the peaceful temples
in Kyoto, there’s so much to explore. I’d love to experience the blend of modern life and
traditional customs, try authentic Japanese cuisine, and visit places like Mount Fuji or the hot
springs in Hakone. Japan offers a unique and unforgettable experience that combines both
adventure and relaxation.
17. What restaurant would you go to if you wanted to have a special celebration? Why?
If I were celebrating a special occasion, I’d choose a fine-dining restaurant with a great
atmosphere, like one that offers a mix of local and international cuisine. For example, a high-
end restaurant with a beautiful view or elegant décor would make the experience more
memorable. I appreciate places that offer excellent service, a carefully curated menu, and a
wide selection of wines. .
18. Discuss how it makes you feel that "stores are trying to alter" your behavior. Also discuss how
you might shop differently now that you know this.
It feels a bit uncomfortable knowing that stores try to influence my behavior through strategies
like discounts, product displays,. Sometimes I realize I end up buying things I didn’t plan on, just
because of these marketing strategies.
Now that I’m aware of this, I would shop more carefully. I’d stick to a shopping list, avoid
impulse purchases, and be more mindful of how stores try to shape my choices. This way, I can
make more thoughtful decisions and not be swayed by clever marketing.
19. Discuss the pros and cons of each of these situations.
paying for items with a credit card
eating out at restaurants
going shopping with friends
taking a vacation overseas
Paying for items with a credit card
Pros: It’s convenient and allows for easy tracking of expenses. Credit cards also offer rewards,
like cashback or points, and can help build a credit history.
Cons: It’s easy to overspend, as the money isn’t immediately deducted from your account. If not
managed properly, high-interest rates can lead to debt accumulation.
Eating out at restaurants
Pros: It’s a great way to enjoy good food and experience different cuisines. It’s also a social
activity, ideal for spending time with friends or family without the hassle of cooking.
Cons: It can be expensive, especially if done frequently. The portion sizes might be larger than
necessary, leading to overeating, and the quality of food may vary depending on the restaurant.
Going shopping with friends
Pros: Shopping with friends can be fun and help you get different opinions on your choices,
which can improve your buying decisions. It can also be a social bonding experience.
Cons: It might encourage impulse buying, especially if friends are also making unplanned
purchases. Additionally, it could lead to comparisons, where you might feel pressured to buy
things you don’t really need.
Taking a vacation overseas
Pros: It’s an opportunity to explore new cultures, relax, and experience unique destinations. It
can be educational and provide unforgettable memories.
Cons: It can be costly, especially with flights, accommodation, and activities. Also, long-distance
travel can be tiring, and there may be language or cultural barriers that make it challenging at
times.
20. What refeshments are usually sold in your country? Do you buy refreshments at a movie theater?
Why or why not ?
In my country, common refreshments sold at stores include soft drinks, bottled water, chips,
candy, and pastries. At movie theaters, you usually find popcorn, candy, soft drinks
Personally, I don’t usually buy refreshments at the cinema. I prefer to bring my own snacks
because I find cinema prices quite high. Plus, I’m not always hungry during the movie, so I don’t
see the need to spend extra money. However, occasionally, I might get popcorn if it’s a special
treat or if I’m craving it during the movie.
21. A decoy is a thing designed to trick a person or animal. Does this change how you feel
about companies using the decoy effect? Why or why not
The idea of a decoy does make me feel uneasy about companies using the decoy effect. It can
seem manipulative because it tricks people into choosing something they might not have picked
otherwise. However, if the decoy isn’t misleading or harmful, I think it’s a clever tactic.
Ultimately, it’s up to consumers to make informed decisions, but companies should be
transparent and ethical.
22. Will you change your shopping behavior after learning about the decoy effect? If yes,
what will you do differently? If no, why not?
Learning about the decoy effect does make me more aware of how companies can use
psychological tactics to influence our choices. The decoy effect, where a less attractive option is
introduced to make another option seem more appealing, can be a clever marketing strategy,
but I don’t think it will drastically change my shopping behavior. I’m generally aware of these
tricks, so I tend to focus on what I actually need or want rather than being swayed by the pricing
strategies.
23. What else do businesses do to encourage consumers to spend more?
To encourage consumers to spend more, businesses often offer discounts, promotions, and
loyalty programs to attract repeat purchases. They also use effective advertising, appealing
visuals, and flexible payment options like installment plans. Additionally, creating a positive
shopping experience can boost consumer confidence and spending.
24. Are you familiar with loyalty cards? In your view, do loyalty cards really make people
more loyal to a particular store or restaurant?
Yes, I’m familiar with loyalty cards. They reward customers with points or discounts for repeat
purchases.
While loyalty cards can encourage customers to return, I don’t think they create true loyalty.
People are still likely to choose a store or restaurant based on factors like quality and service.
Loyalty cards may bring people back, but they won’t necessarily keep them loyal if a competitor
offers something better.
25. In your experience, what do you find to be the most frustrating thing about shopping?
In my experience, the most frustrating thing about shopping is dealing with long lines and slow
checkout processes. Sometimes, even when you’re in a hurry, you can end up waiting for a long
time just to pay for your items, especially during busy hours or holidays
26. What are some tasks that children generally consider to be chores, but which people often enjoy
as they get older
Cooking is a task that many children initially view as a chore, especially when they’re asked to
help prepare meals or clean up afterward. It can seem time-consuming and sometimes
repetitive, especially when they don’t yet know how to appreciate the creative and practical
aspects of it. However, as people get older, they often begin to enjoy cooking more. cooking
becomes a way to express creativity or even relax after a busy day. Adults also often find joy in
cooking because they can experiment with new recipes, improve their skills, and enjoy the
satisfaction of preparing meals that are both delicious and nourishing. Additionally, cooking for
friends or family can become a meaningful social activity, making it even more enjoyable as
people grow older.
27. Which makes you more frustrated when an item you want is out of stock or when it is too
expensive to buy? Why?
For me, I would say I get more frustrated when an item is too expensive to buy. When
something I want is out of stock, it can be disappointing, but I know it’s usually temporary and I
can try again later. However, when the price is too high, it feels like there’s no solution,
especially if it’s something I really need or want. It’s frustrating because it’s not about waiting for
it to become available again; it’s about not being able to afford it, which feels more limiting. So, I
think the financial barrier tends to bother me more than simply waiting for an item to be
restocked.
28. Which sounds more exciting: interacting with older people from another
country or with people your age from your country? Why?
I think interacting with people my age from my own country sounds more exciting to me. The
reason is that we share similar experiences, cultural references, and a common understanding
of our environment, which makes it easier to connect and communicate. We can bond over
current trends, popular music, or social media, which often leads to more dynamic and engaging
conversations.
29. Which would you find more boring: a documentary about loyalty or one about gender? Why?
30. Which option would make you more relaxed after working all day: taking a bath or going for a walk?
Why?
I would find a documentary about loyalty more boring than one about gender. Loyalty is a more
abstract concept and often seems repetitive in documentaries. While it’s important, the stories
around loyalty can feel similar and less interesting to me. In contrast, documentaries about
gender cover a wide range of issues, such as equality, culture, and human rights. These topics
are more complex and current, which makes them more engaging and thought-provoking.
31. Which would you be more interested/ in doing: watching a movie or going to a party? Why?
I would be more interested in watching a movie. I enjoy the quiet and relaxed atmosphere that
comes with it. Watching a film allows me to escape into a different world for a couple of hours,
and I can do it on my own or with a small group of friends, which I find more comfortable. Going
to a party can sometimes feel overwhelming because of the noise and the large number of
people, which isn’t always to my taste. So, overall, I prefer the calm and immersive experience
of watching a movie.
32. The professor discusses a research study titled "Men Buy, Women Shop." What do you think this
title most likely means?
The title “Men Buy, Women Shop” likely refers to the different approaches that men and women
take when it comes to purchasing items. It suggests that men tend to focuse on buying what
they need and leaving quickly. In contrast, women may engage in a more extended process,
involving browsing, comparing products, and enjoying the experience of shopping. Essentially,
the title highlights the idea that men and women approach the act of acquiring goods in different
ways, with men emphasizing efficiency and women potentially valuing the experience or
process.
34. Brainstorm a smartphone app (a software application) that would BRAINSTORMING help
shoppers in some way, such as by solving a problem that many shoppers have. Discuss your app's
benefits, features, price, and name
My app idea is called ShopSmart. It’s designed to help shoppers save time and money by
providing smart, personalized shopping experiences.
Features include:
• Personalized recommendations based on user preferences.
• Price comparison across online and physical stores.
• Store locator to find nearby retailers.
• Barcode scanner for instant price checks.
• Budget tracker to monitor spending.
Benefits: ShopSmart saves time, helps find better deals, and keeps users within their budget.
Price: It’s free to download, with a premium version for $5/month offering extra features like
early sale alerts.
The app’s goal is to help shoppers make smarter, more efficient purchases.
Unit 2 : MOTHER NATURE
1. In what ways do documentaries differ from other films?
Documentaries differ from other films in that they focus on real-life events and aim to inform or
educate, whereas other films are typically fictional and designed to entertain. Documentaries
use real footage, interviews, and factual narratives, while fictional films rely on scripted stories
and actors. Essentially, documentaries present reality, while other films create imaginative
stories for entertainment.
2. Nature is one common subject for documentaries. What other subjects are common?
Apart from nature, other common subjects for documentaries include history, politics, culture,
social issues, and science. Many documentaries explore historical events, important political
figures, or societal challenges like poverty and human rights. Others focus on scientific
discoveries, technological advancements, or the lives of influential people. These subjects help
raise awareness and provide insight into various aspects of our world.
3. In general, documentaries are less popular than typical Hollywood movies. Why do you think this
is
I think documentaries are less popular than Hollywood movies because they tend to be more
informative and less entertaining. Many people prefer the escapism and excitement offered by
Hollywood films, with their engaging plots and special effects. Documentaries, on the other
hand, can be more serious and sometimes slow-paced, which may not appeal to everyone.
Additionally, Hollywood films often have bigger budgets for marketing, making them more
accessible and widely promoted compared to documentaries.
5. What documentaries have you watched that you would recommend? Why would you recommend
them?
One documentary I’d recommend is Our Planet, narrated by David Attenborough. It showcases
the beauty of nature and highlights the environmental challenges the world faces. I’d
recommend it because it’s visually stunning and raises awareness about the importance of
conservation.
6. In general, do you prefer watching documentaries or other types of movies? Why?
I usually prefer watching documentaries because they teach me something new. I enjoy
learning about real-life topics like nature, history, and social issues. Documentaries help me
understand the world better and often make me think more deeply. While I do watch movies for
fun, I find documentaries more interesting and meaningful because they offer real facts and new
perspectives.
10. Which of these, if any, do you feel are good reasons for cloning animals? Why?
to bring back particular dead animals such as much-loved pets
to bring back extinct species such as Tyrannosaurus Rex or other dinosaurs
to copy animals with certain characteristics such as fast racehorses
to produce animals with characteristics that benefit humans
to save endangered species such as some types of sea turtles
I think cloning animals to save endangered species, like certain types of sea turtles, is a
good reason. These species are crucial to the ecosystem, and cloning could help increase
their population and prevent extinction. It could also provide a more sustainable solution to
conservation efforts, especially when traditional methods are not enough.
11. If it were possible for scientists to bring back just one extinct species through cloning, what criteria
would you use to decide which species to bring back
12. Discuss how life would be affected if this species suddenly went extinct.
13. Discuss what humans could do to make sure this species does not become extinct.
If a species were to suddenly go extinct, it could have a significant impact on the environment
and ecosystem. For example, if sea turtles were to disappear, the balance of marine
ecosystems could be disrupted. Sea turtles play an important role in maintaining healthy coral
reefs by feeding on jellyfish and controlling the population of certain species. Without them,
these species could overpopulate, leading to imbalances in the food chain.
Additionally, the extinction of any species can affect other organisms that depend on it for food
or other ecological functions. For example, predators might struggle to find enough food, and
plants might lose pollinators or seed dispersers. Overall, the loss of a species can have a ripple
effect, causing a decline in biodiversity and potentially threatening the stability of the ecosystem.
14. The Kemp’s ridley sea turtle is the most endangered of all sea turtle . What human activities do
you think threaten it?
The Kemp’s ridley sea turtle is mainly threatened by human activities like habitat destruction,
particularly due to coastal development. As beaches are developed for tourism or urbanization,
nesting sites are lost. Pollution is another significant threat, with plastic waste and oil spills
harming the turtles both in the water and on land.
Additionally, commercial fishing practices often result in accidental capture of sea turtles, known
as bycatch. Many turtles are also affected by illegal egg collection or disturbances to their
nesting sites.
In summary, activities like habitat destruction, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices are
the primary human-induced threats to the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle.
15. In addition to the threats by human,what other challenges do these turtles probably face?
In addition to human threats, such as habitat destruction and pollution, sea turtles likely face
several natural challenges. One major issue is predation, as their eggs and young turtles are
vulnerable to predators like birds, crabs, and other animals.
Another challenge is climate change, which affects the temperature of sand, influencing the
gender of hatchlings. Rising sea levels and extreme weather events also threaten their nesting
sites and habitats.
16. 1. When you are lost, are you comfortable asking a stranger for directions? Why or why not?
Yes, I’m generally comfortable asking a stranger for directions if I’m lost. I find that most people
are willing to help, and it’s often the quickest way to get back on track. I prefer asking someone
local because they usually know the area better. However, I’d make sure to ask in a safe
environment, especially if I’m in an unfamiliar place or feel uneasy. Overall, I think asking for
directions is a practical way to solve the problem.
16. In general, are you comfortable talking to people you don't know? Why or why not?
I’m not always comfortable talking to people I don’t know. It depends on the situation and my
mood. In some cases, I feel a bit shy or unsure, especially if the conversation feels forced or if
the person seems unfriendly. However, in more relaxed or casual settings, I’m usually okay with
it. I think it can be a good way to learn new things and make connections, but it does require a
certain level of comfort for me to feel fully at ease.
17. What are some situations in which you might need to begin a conversation with a stranger? What
strategies could you use to start talking to that person?
There are several situations where I might need to start a conversation with a stranger, such as
when I’m traveling and need directions, at an event where I don’t know anyone, or even when
I’m in a store and need help finding something.
To start the conversation, I’d usually begin with a polite greeting or a question related to the
context, like “Excuse me, could you help me with something?” or “Hi, have you been to this
place before?” In social settings, I might make a comment about the surroundings or ask a
simple question to engage the person, like “How are you finding the event?” Using open body
language and maintaining a friendly tone also helps to make the conversation more natural and
comfortable.
18. Would you be interested in taking a class that focuses on plant life? Why or why not?
Yes, I would be interested in taking a class that focuses on plant life. I find plants fascinating
because they play such an important role in our environment, from providing oxygen to
supporting ecosystems. Learning more about how plants grow, their different species, and their
uses in medicine or food could be really useful and interesting. Plus, it could help me become
more environmentally conscious and encourage sustainable living practices.
19. Why is it important to study how plants survive in a variety of conditions? What useful
information can we learn?
Studying how plants survive in different conditions is important because it helps us understand
how to protect and improve ecosystems, especially with the challenges posed by climate
change. By learning how plants adapt to extreme temperatures, droughts, or poor soil, we can
apply this knowledge to agriculture, conservation, and even urban planning.
20. You are going to create and present a short proposal for a 10-minute nature documentary.
Brainstorm answers to the following questions. When making your decisions, you may find it helpful to
discuss key criteria first.
What species will our documentary be about? Why?
What aspect of this species' life will we focus on? Why?
What will be the main scenes in our documentary? Why?
Which country or countries will we need to travel to? Why?
What will be unique or special about our documentary?
For our 10-minute nature documentary, I suggest focusing on sea turtles. We’ll highlight their
hatching and migration, showing their incredible journey from the beach to the ocean and the
challenges they face, such as predators and human threats.
The main scenes will include baby turtles emerging from their nests, the dangerous journey to
the sea, and conservation efforts to protect them. We’ll film in countries like Costa Rica,
Australia, and Indonesia, where sea turtle populations are thriving and conservation work is
ongoing.
What will make our documentary special is its focus on both the natural beauty of sea turtles
and the global conservation efforts to ensure their survival, offering a powerful message of hope
and responsibility.
Unit 3 : ON THE MOVE
1. If you could settle in any nation in the world, where would you choose?
2. Are you more interested in domestic news or international news?
3. What is one barrier to learning English that you are working to overcome?
4. What is a book you have read that was good enough to read at least twice?
5. What is something you want that you don’t have enough money?
6. What is one kind of food you love but think is too unhealthy to eat often?
7. What is something you enjoy that you have too little time to do these days ?
8. What is one annoying thing you think too many people are doing these days
9. Think about a city you know well. Make notes in answer to these questions.
What is the city called and where is it?
What does the city have enough of?
What does the city have too much of?
How livable do you think the city is?
10. Discuss what specific features make a city attractive and livable
11. What is one movie that you enjoyed watching? Give a short overview of it.
12. Where would you like to relocate to? Why?
13. Think about one of your dreams for the future. What is the prospect that it will come true?
14. What is your favorite subject at school? Which aspect of it do you like most?
15. Think about a difficult situation you have encountered. How did you deal with it?
16. How much human colonization of other worlds is expected to cost
17. What issues humans who emigrate to other worlds are likely to face
18. Which countries,groups,or organizations should colonize space first
UNIT 4 : OUR CHANGING PLANET
1.Do you prefer taking photos of people dramatic landscapes?Why
2. In addtion to water and wind,what else might cause a landscape to erode
3. Which type of weather do you least enjoy being exposed to?
4. Give an example of a situation when water id under pressure. What happens if the pressure is released?
5. What is one thing people might continue to use even if it has a crack in it?
6. What do you think is the most unique thing about you?
7. What nation parks are important in your country ?
8. When and where were you born?
9. When you were a child, what is one thing you were rarely allowed to do?
10. What were you often told by your teachers at school?
11. What is your favorite movie called, and who was it directed by?
12. Who are you most influenced by in your personal or professional life?
13. The film you just watched has been described as a "visual poem." What do you think this means? Do
you agree that the film is like a visual poem? Why or why not?
14. Think of an important river in your country. In what ways is it similar to the Colorado River? In what
ways is it different? What is unique about it?
15. Discuss what you think each of the sayings below means. Then discuss whether you agree fully,
partially, or not at all with each saying, and why. Use appropriate stress.
• If you get lost in nature, you will find yourself. • Nature is not a place to visit; it is home.
• Earth does not belong to us. We belong to Earth.
• We change nature, but nature also changes us.
UNIT 5 : MAKING A LIVING , MAKING A
DIFFERENCE
1. How did forming the cooperative help families generate more income in Chinchero?
2. Why is it important to have diverse kinds of businesses in a community; for example, large
department stores, small family- owned businesses, and entrepreneurs?
3. How do you think each person feels about his or her job?
4. How are these people making a difference through their work? In other words, how are they
helping others?
5. What type of work is most interesting to you? Why?
6. What kind of small business would you like to see open in your community? Why?
7. How many employees does this kind of business have? Do employees receive any job benefits,
such as health insurance, employee discount, or free meals?
8. Besides employment, what other benefits does the business provide to the community?
9. What statistics from page 90 can you use to support your ideas?
10. Which small business might bring the most benefits to the community?
11. Did numbers and statistics strengthen the presentations? What other numbers or statistics would
have been useful to include?
12. If only one of the small businesses could open, which one would you choose? Why?
13. Brainstorm a list of six or more ways you use electricity in your home. Then check the three
things you would miss the most if you didn’t have access to electricity.
14. Many people have more clothing, furniture, and other goods than they need. What are some ways
to make these goods accessible to people who really need them?
15. The two companies mentioned in the meeting are doing very different things. How much social
good do you think their different actions accomplish? Explain
16. At the end of the meeting, you hear a suggestion for a brainstorm session to think of ways the
software engineering firm could become more socially responsible and still make a profit. Which
of the actions below might have the most impact? Explain
17. What do you think is the most appropriate kind of career for you? Why do you think so?
18. What is your dream job?
19. What is the most influential technology company?
20. How do people get jobs with good companies
21. Would you want to be a member of a cooperative?
22. What kind of small business would you like to start?