Discuss:
1. Going to university or starting work straight after school.
2. Working from home or working in a large office.
3. Having a well-paid but boring job or having a low paid interesting job.
Sample answer:
Anna: So, James, what’s your (1)__________ on going to university versus heading (2)___________ into work? Personally, I believe that getting a degree (3)_________ you at an advantage. What I mean is that it’s to your advantage to gain qualifications before entering the job market, as many careers require a degree.
James: I see what you mean, but I’d argue that going straight into work is by (4)___________ the best option for gaining real-world experience. If employers prioritise skills over qualifications, then spending years at university seems a bit (5)____________.
Anna: That may be true (6)__________ some extent, yet (7)________ I been given the choice, never (8)________ I have skipped university. The critical thinking skills and connections you make come in (9)___________ later on. Besides, not having a degree often puts you at a (10)____________ when applying for jobs, doesn’t it?
James: Fair (11)_____________. Nevertheless, if one (12)__________ to start working immediately, they could gain financial independence (13)___________ earlier. In fact, had I (14)___________ how expensive university life would be, I might have reconsidered! I didn't make good use of my first year at uni—I was too busy enjoying myself. Looking (15)______________, I should have (16)___________ full advantage of the opportunities there.
Anna: That’s a valid concern! But let’s move on—what (17)___________ working from home versus working in a large office? I, for (18)_________, would much (19)___________ work remotely. The flexibility it provides is unparalleled, and you avoid commuting, (20)___________ is an absolute nightmare!
James: Oh, I couldn’t disagree more! If (21)_________ you knew how motivating it is to be surrounded by colleagues! The atmosphere of an office fosters collaboration and creativity. Working from home is nothing (22)__________ as productive as being in an office. Besides, doesn’t it get lonely?
Anna: To a certain extent, yes. However, with technology, staying connected has never been easier. And let’s not forget the luxury of working in your pyjamas—so much the (23)_________!
James: Ha! I must admit, that does sound tempting. Still, I’d rather have face-to-face interactions (24)_________ endless Zoom calls. But let’s tackle the final question—would you rather (25)____________ a high-paying yet boring job or an exciting job that barely pays the bills?
Anna: Ah, the age-old dilemma! There comes a point in life when money simply isn’t enough to keep you motivated. (26)____________ money no object, I’d unquestionably choose a fascinating job. After (27)___________, what’s the point of earning a fortune if you dread getting up in the morning?
James: That’s an idealistic view, but reality often dictates (28)_____________. (29)__________ one struggle to pay rent, passion alone won’t be enough to put food on the (30)__________. I don’t really see the (31)__________ of doing a job you love if it means constantly worrying about money. Financial stability is absolutely crucial.
Anna: True, but if forced to endure a dull job, how long before one loses all motivation? At the very least, an engaging job brings personal fulfilment. A boring job is (32)_____________ near as rewarding as one that excites you.
James: You do have a (33)____________. Perhaps the best option is to find a balance—something reasonably well-paid but still enjoyable. Easier said than (34)__________, though!
Anna: Absolutely! If only life (35)__________ that simple. But hey, great debate—we should do this more often!
James: Agreed! Let’s just (36)_________ we both find that perfect job one day!
KEY
1. view/ take
2. straight
3. puts
4. far
5. pointless/useless
6. to
7. had
8. would
9. useful/handy
10. disadvantage
11. enough
fair enough: used to say that an idea or suggestion seems reasonable.
E.g. ‘We'll meet at 8.’ ‘Fair enough.’
If you don't want to come, fair enough, but let Bill know.
12. were
13. much/ far/ considerably/ way/
significantly/ a lot/ a great deal
14. known
15. back
16. taken
17. about
18. one
for one: used to emphasize that a particular person does something and that you believe other people do too.
Sp. por mi/tu/su parte
E.g.
I, for one, would prefer to postpone the meeting
Well, I for one enjoy classical music, even if none of my friends do.
19. rather/ sooner
20. which
21. only
22. like
23. better
- so much the better: that is even better.
- E.g."we want to hear what you have to say, but if you can make it short, so much the better"
