Ready for C1 p 56. Comparing Two Holidays and Two Jobs. Monologue. Sample Answer. Cloze

 

I would like to start (1)_______ talking about two places I have visited on holiday. The first was Santorini, a Greek island famous for (2)__________ whitewashed buildings and stunning sunsets. The second was Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, which is a great (3)__________ more cosmopolitan than Santorini. While Santorini is easily the (4)___________ breathtaking destination I have ever been to, Bangkok is considerably (5)___________ bustling and vibrant. The Greek island is known not so (6)_________ for its sights as for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, whereas Bangkok offers a chaotic mix of history, culture, and nightlife.

That (7)_________ said, Bangkok is not (8)____________ as unspoilt as Santorini, but it is by (9)__________ the most captivating city I have visited. (10)_________ this were not enough, the food in Bangkok is absolutely incredible, making it a paradise for food lovers. On the (11)__________, I would say that while Santorini is significantly more picturesque, Bangkok came a (12)___________ second in terms of excitement and cultural richness.

Let’s now move (13)__________ to the jobs I have done. The first was working as a customer service assistant in a busy shopping centre, and the second was teaching English to children. The retail job was nothing (14)___________ as rewarding as teaching, as it often involved dealing with difficult customers, (15)__________ could be quite frustrating. However, it wasn’t quite (16)___________ a demanding job as teaching, (17)_____________ I didn’t have to prepare lessons or worry about keeping children engaged.

Teaching, on the other hand, was the most challenging by a (18)_________ way, but at the same time, it was much more fulfilling. Nothing gives (19)___________ bad an impression as a teacher who lacks enthusiasm, (20)__________ I had to be constantly energetic and creative. Personally (21)______________, I found that teaching was nowhere (22)____________ as mind-numbing as retail work, because every day was different, and I could see my students improving.

All things (23)_____________, I enjoyed both experiences, but teaching was (24)___________ far the most rewarding. On (25)__________ of all this, it gave me valuable skills in communication and leadership, which have been useful in other areas of my life.

(26)_____________ a final point, I’d like to add that both holidays and both jobs taught me something different, and comparing them helps me appreciate the variety of experiences I’ve had. (27)___________ conclusion, I would like to say that while Bangkok was perhaps the most stunning in terms of cultural diversity, Santorini was the most picturesque. Similarly, while teaching was the most demanding, it was also the most fulfilling.

Well, this brings me to the end of (28)__________ I wanted to say about my holidays and jobs. All (29)__________ all, both experiences have shaped me, and I wouldn’t trade them (30)___________ anything.

KEY

1. by

2. its

3. deal

4. most

5. more

6. much

7. being

8. nearly

9. far

10. If

11. whole

12. close

13. on

14. like

15. which

16. such

17. since

18. long

19. so

20. so

21. speaking

22. near

23. considered

24. by

25. top

26. As

27. In

28. what

29. in

30. for

Ready for C1 p 60. Work. Speaking Sample

 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

1. so much the better: that is even better.
2. E.g.

   "we want to hear what you have to say, but if you can make it short, so much the better"

24. than

25. have

26. Were

27. all

28. otherwise (Sp. otra cosa)/ differently 

29. Should

30. table

31. point/ use

32. nowhere

33. point

34. done

35. were/ was

36. hope ("wish" is not possible here)

Ready for C1 p 52. Starting Up a Business. Mediation. Word Formation

You recently came across an infographic about the best time in life to start a business. Finding it fascinating, you decide to write a blog post about it.

The Advantages of Start-ups for Young Entrepreneurs

I. Limitations of Regular Jobs

• Repetitive tasks, little value for entrepreneurs.

II. Start-up Benefits for Young People

• Varied responsibilities: managing accounts, product design, and marketing.
• Traditional jobs are a waste of time.

III. Fearless Mindset

• Youth's fearlessness fosters risk-taking, often leading to business success.
• Older individuals often lack the courage.

IV. Key Strengths of Youth

• Confidence, ambition, and flexibility.
• Age is an advantage, not a barrier.

Sample answer:

Why Start-ups Benefit Young Entrepreneurs

A typical job has little to offer the (1)____________ (WOULD) entrepreneur, as it often requires an employee to repeat a limited number of tasks. In a start-up, however, a young person will, by (2)_____________ (NECESSARY), be engaged in multiple roles per day, such as doing the accounts, (3)____________ (ENHANCEMENT) product design and seeking new marketing opportunities. There is no reason, then, to waste time in regular employment. Furthermore, because the business world is largely (4)_______________ (KNOW), young people tend not to be (5)___________ (HOLD) back by fear. As such, they are more likey to take chances and succeed in getting their business off the ground. This is why people in their thirties or forties may (6)______________ (CONTEMPLATION) the idea of a start-up, but do not often have the stomach for it. Working in young people's favour is their confidence and ambition, and a flexible lifestyle. It is fair to say that age will help, not (7)______________ (HINDRANCE) their efforts.

KEY

1. would-be

2. necessity

3. enhancing

4. unknown

5. held

6. contemplate

7. hinder

Ready for C1 p 49. Job Interviews. True or False Listening

Speaker 1 

1. He had been advised to show he had done some research.

2. He mentioned irrelevant information.

Speaker 2

3. She practised the interview with a friend beforehand.

4. The interviewer told her she didn't stand a chance of getting the job due to her tardiness.

Speaker 3

5. He lacked the right qualifications.

6. His mother had nagged him to do something to control his nerves.

Speaker 4

7. Because of the effort she exerted while trying to sit in the right way, she experienced aches and pains.

8. She applied because a friend had persuaded her to do so.

Speaker 5

9. He failed to answer the questions well.

10. He appreciated the careers officer's advice.

KEY

1. T

2. T

3. F (with her dog)

4. F (it was her gut feeling)

5. T

6. T

be/go on at someone: to complain to someone again and again about their behaviour or to ask them to do something. Sp. dar la lata.

E.g.

be/go on at someone about something 

My parents are always on at us about having a baby. 

be/go on at someone to do something 

She's been on at me to get my hair cut.

7. F (trying to smile made her face ache)

8. T

9. T

10. F (so much for the advice from the careers office)

so much for something

used to suggest that something has not been successful or useful.

E.g.

So much for that idea!

Ready for C1 p 12. Tips for an Interview for a Coaching Position. Mediation

Write an email to a friend who has asked you for some advice for an interview for a job as a coach.

Use the information included in this infographic:  

 

 Tips to Make a Good Impact in a Coach Role Interview

1. Creating a Positive Impression

Show how you can present yourself effectively and perform well during the interview for the coaching position.

2. Expressing Your Values

Mention that you believe that fostering a sense of accomplishment in children is essential.

3. Coaching Philosophy

Emphasize that positive reinforcement is more effective than negative feedback or focusing on faults.

4. Benefits of Sport

Explain that sports help young people not only stay physically fit but also support their mental health, happiness, and confidence.

5. Communicating Motivation

You don’t need to claim that coaching children is your lifelong ambition, but you could say that you are passionate about supporting young people in reaching their goals.

On Screen C1 p 54 Ex 2. Word Formation. Mediation Subskills

You decide to give some tips to people who are looking for a job. Use this infographic and give some examples. Write a blog post using 120 words.

Strategies when looking for a job

- Be imaginative

- Do your research 

- Make yourself noticeable

- Attempt to appeal to your employer

Glasgow job centre

Your favourite one!

Opening hours 

Mo-Fri

9.00 a.m- 5.00 p.m. 

877-9889

Call and ask for an appointment!

Think of words and expressions that you can use to paraphrase the words in the infographic 

Select relevant information

 

Sample answer:

On Screen C1 p 54 Ex 2.

On Screen C1 p 49. How important is it for students to gain some work experience? Speaking. Sample Answer

 

Student B: Do you think it is crucial for students to get some work experience?

Student A: Absolutely! I feel (1)__________ strongly that work experience is vital to students.To begin with, I would like to mention that it has been said that all experience is valuable. In my opinion, work experience is extremely valuable to students for a (2)________ of different reasons.

Student B: I couldn't (3)_________ more. Firstly, you can put it on a CV and use it to help you get job interviews.  

Student A: Undeniably,  a graduate who has some work experience is (4)________ more likely to get a job after university than someone who has (5)_________. 

Student B: Secondly, working while at university allows you to explore career options. For instance, you can find out (6)_________ or not a particular line of work suits you. 

Student A: This is very (7)_________. In addition, working while studying has financial benefits. Not only will you be able to have some pocket money, but you will also avoid being burdened (8)_________ so many debts when you leave university.

Student B: I see your point. (9)_________, there is one disadvantage. It must be taken into (10)__________ that working while studying reduces the time you have for your university work.  

Student A: I fully agree with you. This is why you need to have good time (11)___________ skills. 

 

Student B: That's so (12)________. We all seem to be so (13)____________ for time these days. (14)________ for you personally, have you had any work experience (15)_________ far? 

Student A: Surprisingly (16)________, this summer I am planning to work in the hospitality sector. Wish me luck!

Student B: Don't worry! You will be a great asset (17)_______ the company 

Student A: You are too kind! Thank you for the encouraging words anyway. I really (18)________ that.

 

 

KEY

 

 

1. very

 

 

2. number 

 

 

3. agree 

 

 

4. far/much 

 

 

5. none 

 

 

6. whether 

 

 

7. true 

 

 

8. with 

 

 

9. However 

 

 

10. account 

 

 

11. management 

 

 

12. true 

 

 

13. pressed/pushed 

 

 

14. As 

 

 

15. so 

 

 

16. enough 

 

 

17. to  

  "You're too kind" is not meant to be taken literally. It is a hyperbole. Read literally, the person is saying "I do not deserve the amount of kindness you display to me." As an idiom, it means "Thank you for being kind.

 

 

18. appreciate