UNIT 1

1. What is a stroke and what are the causes and effects of a stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts,
causing brain cells to die. It can be caused by a blood clot, high blood pressure, or a
ruptured artery. The effects depend on which part of the brain is damaged — some people
may have trouble speaking, moving one side of their body, or remembering things.
2. Which effect of a stroke would upset you more, the loss of the ability to speak or the
loss of your past memories? Why?
For me, losing my memories would be harder. Memories are my personal story — my
relationships, experiences, and lessons I’ve learned. Even if I couldn’t speak, I could still
feel connected to who I am inside, but losing my memories would feel like losing myself.
3. In what way does language affect who we are?
Language shapes how we think and how we see the world. It’s tied to our culture, humor,
emotions, and even how we connect with others. The words we use can influence how we
express love, solve problems, and build relationships.
4. Talk about a person having suffered from a stroke.
My neighbor’s father had a stroke last year. He lost movement on his right side and
struggled to speak at first. It was tough to watch, but with physical therapy and speech
exercises, he’s improved a lot. It reminded me how much strength and patience recovery
takes — not just for the patient, but for the family too.
5. In the modern world, do you think it is better for a child to have a private tutor at
home or learn in a school setting?
I think both have value. School teaches kids social skills, teamwork, and how to adapt to
different people and situations. A private tutor can focus on a child’s specific needs and
learning speed. Ideally, a mix of both would give the best results.
6. Do people who know two languages have different thoughts in each language or just
different words for them?
I think people who know two languages often have slightly different thoughts in each
language, not just different words. Each language carries its own way of expressing ideas,
emotions, and cultural values, so switching languages can also change how you feel or how
you see a situation. For example, a joke or a saying in one language might not have the same
meaning or feeling in another. So it’s not only about vocabulary—it can actually influence
the way you think.
UNIT 2
1. What are some factors that you consider when planning a vacation?
Well, when I plan a vacation, I usually think about how much money I can spend, how
many days I have, and what the weather’s like there. I also look at what activities I can do
and if the place is safe to visit.
2. In which situations work, education and fun overlap?
I think work, education, and fun come together in things like studying abroad, going to
summer camps, or working on creative projects. You learn, you work, and you still enjoy
it.
3. What is voluntourism? What are the advantages and disadvantages of
voluntourism?
Voluntourism is when people travel to another place to do volunteer work while exploring
the area. The good thing is you can help people, learn about their culture, and have a
meaningful trip. The downside is sometimes it doesn’t really help in the long run, or it
might even cause problems if it’s not done well.
4. Which place in the world could benefit from the contributions of volunteer tourists?
Why?
I think rural villages in developing countries could benefit a lot from volunteer tourists.
These areas often have limited access to education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure.
Volunteer tourists can help by teaching, building facilities, or providing medical support.
At the same time, they bring new ideas and skills that can inspire local communities. This
kind of contribution can make a real difference in people’s daily lives and create long-
term positive changes.
5. What should teachers be more concerned about—whether students are interested
and excited about what they need to learn, or whether they are learning as much
information as possible about the subject?
I think teachers should focus more on keeping students interested and excited about what
they’re learning, because when students are engaged, they’re more motivated to study
and explore the topic.
If they actually enjoy the lessons, they’re more likely to remember the information and
apply it in real life, rather than just memorizing facts for a short time. Of course, learning
as much as possible is important, but without interest, students may quickly forget what
they’ve learned.
6. How might going abroad to study or testing video games for a software company be
considered areas where work, education, and fun overlap?
Going abroad to study can be a mix of work, education, and fun because you’re learning
new subjects, adapting to a different culture, and meeting people from around the world,
which is exciting. It’s hard work to study in a new environment, but it’s also a unique life
experience that can be really enjoyable. Testing video games for a software company is
similar—you’re doing a job and learning about game design, programming, and
technology, but at the same time, you get to play and explore new games, which makes
the work fun and engaging.
7. What are the factors affecting the choice of a school trip?
I think several factors can affect the choice of a school trip. First, safety is the most
important—teachers and parents want to make sure the destination is secure for students.
Second, the educational value matters; the trip should connect to what students are
 learning in class. Cost is another big factor, because it needs to be affordable for most
families. Travel time is also important—if it’s too far, it can be tiring. Finally, the trip
should be enjoyable and age-appropriate, so students can both learn and have fun at the
same time.
UNIT 3
1. What does “blend into the surroundings” mean? Can you give an example?
“Blend into the surroundings” means that an animal uses its natural colors or patterns
to match the background around it, so it’s harder to see. This helps it avoid predators
or sneak up on prey. For example, a chameleon can change its skin color to match the
leaves or tree bark around it. That way, it becomes almost invisible in its
environment.
2. How do animals “mimic the environment”?
When animals mimic the environment, they actually copy the appearance of
something else in nature. This could be another animal, a plant, or even a rock. For
instance, a stick insect looks so much like a twig that it can sit on a branch without
being noticed. This trick confuses predators, who think it’s just part of the plant.
3. Why do animals need to “adapt to their habitat”?
Animals adapt to their habitat because it helps them survive in the specific conditions
where they live. If they can blend in or hide better, they’re less likely to be eaten by
predators. At the same time, they can also approach prey more easily without being seen.
For example, polar bears have white fur that blends with snow, which makes it easier to
hunt seals.
4. How does camouflage help animals “conceal themselves from predators”?
Camouflage helps animals hide from predators by making them less visible or even
invisible in their surroundings. A predator might walk right past without realizing the
prey is there. For example, a leopard’s spotted coat matches the patterns of light and
shadow in the forest, so it’s very hard to spot.
5. Why do many creatures “rely on natural camouflage”?
Many creatures rely on natural camouflage because it’s one of their best defenses against
danger. Some animals are small or slow, so they can’t run away quickly. Instead, they
hide in plain sight. For example, an arctic hare’s white fur helps it survive in snowy
landscapes, especially in winter when predators like foxes are hunting. Without
camouflage, many animals would have a much lower chance of survival.
VC4
1. What does it mean to be a global citizen from an individual and business viewpoint?
From an individual viewpoint, being a global citizen means being aware of the world
beyond your own country, respecting different cultures, and taking responsibility for
global issues like climate change or human rights. For example, you might recycle,
 donate to international causes, or volunteer abroad. From a business viewpoint, it’s about
operating in a way that benefits not only shareholders but also employees, communities,
and the environment worldwide. This could mean fair trade practices, reducing carbon
emissions, or supporting community projects in different countries.
2. What do you think are the most serious problems caused by businesses and
corporations that the Global Compact should force them to address?
I think one of the most serious problems is environmental damage—things like pollution,
deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Another major problem is poor labor
conditions in developing countries, where workers might be underpaid or work in unsafe
environments. The Global Compact should push companies to act responsibly in these
areas, because these issues affect not just one country but the whole planet.
3. Do you think corporations that follow the Global Compact are motivated more by
the desire for profits, the desire to be better global citizens, or something else?
Honestly, I think it’s a mix. Some companies do care about being responsible global
citizens, but many are also motivated by how it looks to the public. Following the Global
Compact can improve their image, attract more customers, and even increase profits. So,
it’s often both moral responsibility and business advantage that drive them.
4. Do you think the support of famous celebrities makes a real difference in gathering
help in a national and international crisis?
Yes, I do. Celebrities have a huge influence and millions of followers. When they speak
out or donate, it gets a lot of media attention and encourages more people to help. For
example, during natural disasters or global health crises, celebrity campaigns have raised
millions of dollars in just a few days. Of course, the effect also depends on the sincerity
of the celebrity and the cause they’re supporting.
5. Who should pay for the global aid following a natural disaster, such as a tsunami or
the destruction following an oil spill?
I think it should be a shared responsibility. Governments should contribute, especially
those with strong economies, because they have the resources. Corporations involved—
like an oil company responsible for a spill—should also pay for damages. On top of that,
international organizations and even individuals can help through donations, because
global aid often requires a lot of funding.
6. What kinds of local or national problems would you be willing to volunteer time to?
Personally, I would be willing to volunteer for education programs in rural areas. I think
giving children access to good education can change their future and help break the cycle of
poverty. I’d also be interested in environmental projects, like planting trees or cleaning up
beaches, because protecting nature is something that benefits everyone in the long run.