The National Association of Nutritionists issued a report today. While the report recommends that people reduce the amount of processed and refined sugar that they eat, this doesn’t mean people have to remove all sweet foods from their diets. Instead, they should replace sugar with honey, fruit juice, and other natural sweeteners.
Ladies and gentlemen, we’ll be landing shortly in Atlanta, where the temperature is a pleasant twenty-three degrees. At this time, please move your seat to the upright position, fasten your seat belt, and turn off any electronic devices. Luggage should be placed under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. Thank you for flying Langston Airways.
Describe a picture
This looks like a scene from some country in Southeast Asia. There is, I think it’s a man, in the red pants, balancing two baskets on his shoulder on a stick. And they look like, the both baskets carry tropical fruits and some vegetables. There is a woman behind him on the bicycle. There is another younger woman on the motorcycle in front of him. It seems to be in downtown.
This is a picture taken probably in Southeast Asia. And it looks like there’s person holding two baskets of fruit. In one basket, there are some durians, and in another basket, I can’t quite tell, but possibly lemons. And this person is standing next to a road where there’s somebody riding a bicycle and another person on a motorbike. And somebody’s also crossing the street.
Interview about clothes shopping
In the past three months, how many times have you gone shopping for clothes, and what did you buy?
I went once, and I bought a red waterproof breathable jacket.
I’ve gone shopping probably once, and I bought a red waterproof jacket.
How do you decide which store to visit when you go clothes shopping?
The first thing I check is whether they have a sale or not. It’s much cheaper to buy clothes that way.
I have a favorite clothing store that’s near my house. It sells used clothing that is in very good condition, and I like the atmosphere there, so that’s where I go most often.
Do you enjoy shopping for clothes? Why or why not?
I actually don’t enjoy shopping for clothes because I don’t necessarily find something that fits or something I like in one store, and I have to spend a lot of time going through different stores. That’s boring.
I enjoy running around every minute for clothes shopping because I can’t wait to find something that fits or something I like in the store, and I spend most of vacations going through different stores. That’s exciting.
I really don’t enjoy shopping for clothes because it takes a lot of time, and I don’t like to spend money on clothes. I prefer to spend them on other things. But mostly, it’s about how long this process takes.
I really enjoy shopping for clothes because it makes a good day, and I spend quiet a deal of my money on clothes. It gives me most of lovely memories. To me, it is worth every penny.
Information provided
Hello, this is Charles Dean. I’m flying in for the national sales meeting tomorrow, and I didn’t get an agenda. Can you give me some information about tomorrow?
I heard there’s going to be a guest speaker. Can you tell me about that?
The guest speaker will be Leopold Kaminski, the author of Dynamics of Positive Thinking. He will be speaking at eleven a.m.
Yes, at eleven a.m., there is a guest speaker. His name is Leopold Kaminski, and he is the author of Dynamics of Positive Thinking.
Last quarter, I remember we started right at nine o’clock. If I get there at eight-thirty, I’ll be plenty early, right?
Well, this year, we will be starting at ten a.m., so if you come in eight thirty, you will have a lot of time to kill.
Yes, in fact, it starts at ten o’clock, so you’ll be very early.
What’s on the schedule for the afternoon?
Well, at one p.m., there is a “Keys to Organization” program and is given by Brenda Aselton from central region sales. And then, at two p.m., the program, it’s “Setting Goals: Avenue to Success; Measuring Success; Believing in Yourself,” given by Sue Penn, southern region sales. And that’s the end of the program.
In the afternoon, there are two sessions. One is called “Keys to Organization,” and it’s about your time, your records, and your team, and at two o’clock, there’s a session about setting goals.
Propose a solution
Hi, it’s Chris Monroe in New Business Development. I need someone in the personnel office to call me back. I’ve received approval for my proposal to hire three new people to help us with a big account we just landed. In fact, I already have interviews set up with two job applicants, and if things work out, they could start as early as two weeks from now. The problem is, there is absolutely no extra space in my department. We’re already cramped as it is. Even if I find three people to hire, we have no place to put them. There’s no way we could fit even one additional desk in our area, let alone three. I really don’t know what to do. Do you have any suggestions? Give me a ring. It’s Chris, extension seven-one-six. Thanks.
Hi, Chris. I’m calling you back regarding your desk issues. So you have two candidates already for the three job openings. That’s great. But then you don’t really have the space for them. Well, one possibility is to put them in the division next to you. They probably have some office vacancies although I’m not sure I can fit all three of them. In that case we’ll have to look company-wide, and that may be a little inconvenient for your new employees if they are too far. I’ll try to get the desks for them as close to your area as possible.
Express an opinion
Some movies deal with serious topics. Other movies are designed to amuse and entertain. Which type of movie do you think is better for people to watch? Use specific reasons or examples to support your answer.
I can really see the benefits of both, but some of the movies that are serious, especially like something based on history or some really serious events, you get to see what people may have gone through, and you think about problems that is not just limited to you, but some other people’s sufferings, and that will give you some perspective.
I prefer movies that are designed to amuse and entertain, because life is a serious thing, and there are a lot of bad things that happen. And when I sit down to watch a movie, I want to be distracted from that. I want to see something that’s fun and entertaining. But I think that even movies that are fun can sometimes talk about serious issues, and often that makes them better movies.
There are three black mugs, four white mugs, four spoons and one fork on the table.
There are many cups and spoons on the table.
The table has both black and white cups on it.
A man is picking up a book with plain cover. 010214
The man picks up the report from the fax machine.
The man is standing next to a printer and is picking up some paper.
The man just next to the motorcycle is pushing a cart on the street
The man pushes the cart along the street.
There is a man pushing carts in the street.
The passengers are waiting in the lobby of the airport because of a delay of the flight.
Many passengers are forced to wait in the airport lobby because of cancelled flights.
Because of the holiday weekend, many passengers are waiting in the airport lobby to check in.
The couple are looking for the map in order to find out where to go during the vacation.
The couple is reading the map in order to find their way back to the hotel.
In order to get to the train station on time, the tourists consulted the map.
Respond to a written request
From : J.Cho@Pro-Tech.com
To : M.Smith@Accuserve.com
Subject: Upcoming Staff visit
Sent : June 22
Dear Mike,
I will be coming to your offices on Friday to discuss our upcoming joint project. I have never been to your city before, so I am going to stay a few extra days to visit it. Do you have any recommendations about what I should see?
Thank you,
Jung-Min
Respond to the e-mail. In your e-mail, ask ONE question and make TWO suggestions.
Dear Jung-Min,
It is good to hear from you, and we are all looking forward to your visit. Tainan is the cultural capital of Taiwan, perfect for sightseeing and trying out all kinds of local cuisines. We recommend that you visit Anping Harbor, which boasts old trading house and great seafood. Another popular tourist destination that I recommend is Confucius Temple. While the temple is within walking distance of your hotel, you will need a car to get to Anping Harbor. Would you like us to find tour guide with a car for you? Please let us know how we can be of help. Thanks.
Dear Jung-Min,
It seems that your visit has come around very quickly. I’m looking forward to your coming. Are you bringing your children? If so, take them to the Natural History Museum. They will have a great time looking at all the interactive exhibits. Even if you are traveling alone, there is much for the adults as well. Another place that Freetown is famous for its shopping malls. If you want to buy something for your wife and children, you’ll find them here.
All in all, I think your visit will be fantastic; not just for our companies, but also for you, too.
See you soon,
Mike Smith
Dear Jung-Min,
I’m glad to know that you are going to stay a few extra days in my home town and I will have the opportunity to guide you.
I know that you are interested in history and pre-historical culture, so you will like the National Pre-historical Museum in the suburb of Taitung City. You may enjoy the art facts of the aboriginal people.
Then, I will take you to the Restaurant Mi-Ba-Nai. There are many aboriginal dishes of Amis clan. I recommend that we devour all the cuisine at the lunchtime.
At last, I want to make sure how you will come to here on Friday to prepare in details.
Have a nice day.
From : R. Reinhart,, Reinhart Corporation
To : Hearty Catering Services
Subject: Business lunch
Sent : June 18
Dear Hearty Catering Services:
I am organizing a business lunch at our office in two weeks, and a colleague of mine recommended your catering service. Please tell me about your food and the services you can provide.
Thank you,
Rob Reinhart
Reinhart Corporation
Dear Mr. Reinhart,
Thank you for your inquiry. We are an international cuisine team with more than 20 years of experience. We firmly believe that every occasion deserves the best food, excellent service and immaculate set up. We offer a wide selection of food and beverage in both casual an elegant styles. For healthy eaters, we offer both low-fat and organic cuisine without compromising great taste. We can also provide for large corporate events of 800 people or prepare small intimate dinners at your kitchen. Our menu and services consist of various pricing options to fit your budget. We are happy to visit your office to discuss your needs. We look forward to hearing from you.
Isaac Jón
Corporate and Event Caterer
Dear Mr. Reinhart,
Thank you for your inquiry. We are one of the largest local cuisine teams with more than 20 years of experience. We are not only able to provide a menu of for most tastes as well as giving vegetarian alternatives, but also to cater for parties of any size up to 100 tables.
If any of the patrons have special dietary need, this is also no problem and would not affect the bill. Live music can also be organized.
There are three different menu types to choose from as well as a wine list. A typical party would cost between 300 and 500 dollars per table, depending on the size of party and menu, and we provide one free glass of wine for each guest.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me!
Yours sincerely,
Isaac Jón, Vice Manager of Hearty Catering Services
Write an opinion essay
Some employees enjoy working alone. Other like to work with a team of coworkers. Which do you prefer? Why? Support your opinion with specific reasons and examples.
No matter where you look, it seems as if there are supporters of teamwork and collaboration everywhere. You would find it challenging to find a workplace that did not require employees to work in teams. We may be living in a society which values team work, but I prefer working alone. When I work independently of others, I find myself able to obtain more success through working as an individual rather than as a part of a team.
The first reason is that when working alone, I am more efficient than when I must collaborate closely with others. For example, I have the flexibility of choosing not only the time which for me, but also the approach and style I believe is the most efficient. With such freedom, I can work at the time when I am more alert, which is typically late at night, without worrying about whether it is too late to call my colleagues. I am empowered to finish the project considerably faster because I do not have to waste time coordinating with team members.
In addition, as the sole person responsible for every single task of a project, I know the various aspects more thoroughly. Even if I have not mastered every element of a project at the beginning of the assignment, when I have completed the project, I find that I have become an expert who with a thorough understanding of the big picture. When I have a presentation to give, I always ask the manager if I could do it individually. I prefer performing all tasks myself, from doing the research, conducting analysis, to giving the presentation, knowing that every aspect of the preparation is carried out to my expectation.
Finally, I get a unique sense of satisfaction from working alone, knowing that I used my own brain and did everything myself. No one else could take the credit from me. For me, success is not simply finishing the work. Rather, I prefer knowing that I was integral to its success. Therefore, while many jobs require teamwork, I try to ask for individual work because that working style suits me well.
I enjoy working with team of coworkers and believe that teamwork creates synergy. Although we live in a society which values individual talents, there are many advantages in teamwork.
In general, a team would help you save time and resources. When more people are devoted in a common project, your team is likely to make progress faster than if you work independently. This is because the workload of work can be divided among members, and each person has the chance to choose a task which is most suitable for him. 050414
Teamwork should be encouraged because brainstorming is one of the best ways to generate new and good ideas. Different people tend to examine the same issue from different perspective. Even when people have different opinion, the process of working toward a consensus helps each member understand the issues more clearly. By bringing together different viewpoints in a brainstorming session, not can a group come up with a solution quickly, but they may be able to think of multiple solutions.
Working together also provides social network which is critical to the success of a team. Teamwork makes the job less stressful. The members can support each other not only in sharing the workload but in providing emotional support. Member can write down his/her feelings and stress and take a break at work. When other members notice these messages, they will help out before one get paralyzed by fear and worry. Such team support can result in higher productivity and better team spirit. In team working, people go through hard times together and are recognized and rewarded as a team.
I believe working in group is one of the important skills a person should develop in order to gain success. Not only is it a wise, time-saving tactic for companies, but it is a proven method for thinking of creative ideas and reducing work stress. This is why, before students graduate to join the workforce, they are often assigned group projects, so they can acquire team working skills.
I would like to working with a team of coworkers because I need someone to examine my ideas to see if it has the value to come true.
The opinions to the issue may differ from which industry the survey-takers are in. In my industry, the public service, almost all my crewmembers usually work alone. Some officers of high rank will work in a team. However, I prefer to work in a team with coworkers in the future.
A research of Carnegie Center revealed that it depends more on the social skills than the professional skills how well a worker perform in the long term. Furthermore, about 85% of workers succeed because of their excellent social skills with their teams and only about 15% of workers succeed in long term because of their excellent professional skills.
Firstly, I think that I have the potential to a person of commander, strategic thinker, maximizer of efficiency and an idea contributor but I think that I also need to cooperate with a team to compensate with each other’s weakness then we can share the fruits after struggling.
In addition, I firmly believe that one person’s achievement will be determined by the closest five partners according to the theory of social network by Robert Ciaodini. I want to be one in the future who will be able to complete my first dream list, even the second and the third and so on. From my intuition, I’m completely in favor of that we all the crewmembers are connected and we should help ourselves to fit in a larger web out of our responsibility.
To sum up, as a member of the integral net and of the company of explorers, I practice some doings like receiving the critics for an analyst or avoiding the loop hole against my ability step by step in order to build my team in the other day.
030414
Help us celebrate the grand opening of Glenview’s very first home improvement store! Tomorrow, September twelfth, the Home Design Center will hold a one-day sale. So, if you’ve been planning to renovate, don’t miss this opportunity to save up to fifteen percent on paint, tiles and wallpaper. Let up help you turn your house into your dream home.
On behalf of the board of Sencap Corporation, the president, and all of our officers, I welcome you to our fourth annual sales conference. We have planned some great sessions to introduce you to our new product line, the XTD Series, which we think is a true breakthrough for our industry. So without further delay, let me introduce your team leader.
Describe a picture
It looks like it’s a city park Maybe it’s during a weekend because people are sitting there. They’re standing, talking to each other. There’s a man standing and holding his bike. There’s another bike. And some other are holding bags, so maybe they went shopping. There are trees everywhere, but it looks like that it’s winter or early spring because there are no leaves on the trees.
There are a lot of people outside. Some of them are standing next to bikes. Well, one person is standing next to his bike. Further back in the middle of the picture, some of them are sitting on some kind of a fence. One of the people is holding a bag. In the background, there is a long building with some columns. It looks like an older building, and it’s a very, nice-looking building. And there are some people sitting on the grass, or actually walking near the grass.
Interview about mobile phones 030414
In what situation do you usually use a mobile phone?
I usually use my mobile phone to call my friends and family, but primarily family, to see and check if they’re well or to make an appointment.
I use my mobile phone to keep in touch with my family, and sometimes call my friends.
What are the advantages of having a mobile phone?
The advantages are that you can always stay in touch with the people you care, and if you get lost, you can call someone or something happens to you, they can help.
There are many advantages. If I need to get in touch with someone and there’s no landline, I can use my mobile phone. In addition, it is convenient when I’m driving.
When is it not appropriate to use a mobile phone and why?
There are many situations where it’s not appropriate, and one that I can think of is obviously at the movies and when you go and listen to a lecture. I even don’t like to use it at work because I work in a cubicle, and I don’t want disturb the people around me as they are working. But other than that, I can’t think of anything else.
I think it’s not appropriate to use mobile phone when there are a lot of other people around, and they’re in the middle of something, like, in the middle of a meeting, or at the movie theater.
Information provided
Hi, I work in the shipping area and my supervisor wants me to learn about the new database software we’re going to use.
When does the training start and where is it located?
The training begins at nine a.m. and it’s in the Technology, Room 222.
It starts at nine o’clock in the morning on March sixteenth, and it’s in Room two twenty-two in the Technology Training Center.
I may need to leave for a few minutes at 11:00. Is that when the break will be?
No, the coffee break will be from ten to ten fifteen. At eleven o’clock, you will begin your individual practice.
No, the break is actually between ten and ten fifteen, and from eleven to twelve, there’s gonna be individual practice.
I heard there would be chances to practice using the software. Could you explain what this means?
Yes, from eleven to twelve, it’s individual practice time. And you can choose one practice test: producing reports, entering new data or searching for data.
Yeah, at eleven to twelve, you can choose from one of the practice tasks. You can either learn how to produce reports, enter new data, or search for data.
Propose a solution
Hello, uh, Charles Redding here. I’m a regular customer at the Bayside Hotel. Well, last month I reserved a room at your hotel for next week – Tuesday to Saturday. And just today I received a confirmation notice from you about the room. It says I’ve been given a single room. I reserved a suite on the tenth floor. I need a two-room suite because I’m meeting with clients. I spoke with the reservation desk just now and was told that the suites are completely booked for the entire week because of a conference. I’m sorry. I just can’t accept a single room. As a hotel manager, you must be able to do something about this. Please call me back. Again, it’s Charles Redding, 555 four thousand.
Hello, Mr. Redding. I’m the hotel manager at Bayside Hotel. I received your message about your reservation. I realize that you need two rooms because you have your meeting with customers, unfortunately we don’t have the two-room suites right now. I’m really sorry that we only have single rooms available, but what I can do, I can let you meet your customers in one of our meetings with your customers, so I can reserve the rooms for you. You will find them very attractive, there’s coffee and tea, and will be no fee.
Hi, Charles. This is the hotel manager. I understand that you booked a suite, and that somehow we made a mistake and double-booked the room, and there’s no suite available for you. I am very sorry for our mistake. We almost never have situations like this happen. So what I’m gonna do is book you a suite with a hotel that’s just around the corner from our hotel, and it has all the same facilities, and it’s just as nice as our hotel. And also, I’m gonna give you a five-hundred-dollar credit towards your next stay with us. So if you have any question, just give me a call back. Thanks so much.
Express an opinion
Some people say that physical exercise should be a required part of every school day. Other people believe that student should spend the whole school day on academic studies.
Well my opinion is that yes, physical exercise should be a required part of every student school day. I don’t believe that anybody can sit through eight to ten hours of lectures and pay attention to an academic task without having the chance to move, reinvigorate themselves, and take their mind off academic tasks. I think it’s gonna make your mind more alert, and it’s gonna help you think better and pay attention better.
I think that physical exercise is very important and should be a part of the school day because it’ll make sure that the children grow up healthy. And if they’re healthy, they can do better in school anyway, However, I don’t think there should be so much physical exercise that it takes away from learning math, science, or other subjects.
For instance, not knowing the dialect, young natives would find it difficult to appreciate the art of Taiwanese opera. If this trend continues, the future of opera becomes endangered. There are increasingly smaller audience, until finally there are none. However, by reviving the language, we can help make sure that there will be a future for opera and opera lovers. Many dialects contain high amount of wisdom. For example, there is a proverb of Ming-nan dialect saying that borrowing money from friends or ask friends to do you a favor too much will damage friendship.
Although elementary school students are required to learn the dialects in school, many are reluctant to learn. In addition, tt is common to find out most of social vulnerable groups can merely use the dialect to communicate and, thus, they cannot receive the latest information. Therefore they suffer a low social status and financial condition. I think that they should be an integrated part of our society. Therefore, we can enjoy a higher diversity of culture and enrich our lives. If we want to reach some social vulnerable groups, we should adapt us to their cultures, including their dialects. Also, Many dialects contain high amount of wisdom. For example, there is a proverb of Ming-nan dialect saying that borrowing money from friends or ask friends to do you a favor too much will damage friendship.
To stabilize the society, we should keep in touch with the social vulnerable groups. Because many of them use dialect, so we must have a basic understanding of their respective dialects. If we have a stabilized society, we can also live under safety and thus bring down the cost of living. Promoting dialects may face strong opposite opinions and many difficulties, but it will a profound way to improve the welfare.
I will practice the tradition of gathering of family in the Chinese New Year because it makes me gain confidence from knowing that I am not isolated from one another or from the earth and the life on it.
In my opinion, the challenges and the revolutions can’t change the fact that we Mandarin people are all in a linked web in the future, even we live apart from our family. In Taiwanese society, it is a believe that we should practice some doing that can help the family reunion in the Chinese New Year, such like avoiding the quarrels, quitting some vocabulary related to death, damages or something bad like that and smiles with congratulations.
However, there are some inevitable changes to the tradition of Chinese New Year, such as the dinner in the New Year’s Eve. I think that these changes emerge from the outside of the large web, maybe the ecosystem, because the capability of natural environment cannot allow us to cook the reunion dinner with controversial food, for example, the shark fin or with the traditional method which will cost more time and money than the modern way.
Furthermore, we still practice the customs in the New Year, for instance, giving the red envelopes and shooting the firework in the sky, and will not modify them too much. Some examples include that the Mayor of Taipei City, Hau Long-Ping, gave the red envelopes in the Taipei City Zoo while the people waited in line to visit the new-born panda named Yuan-zai and there are almost at the same time firing the firework in the sky among the major cities in Taiwan. We congratulate each other, wish that it will be a happy new year and reflect upon our faith and our roles.
To sum up, whether there is any change to the tradition or not, I will practice those customs of New Year to cherish the connection between my family, our society and the environment. I take them as the effort to fit us into the larger picture of value system and therefore build the religious belief by practicing the tradition.
What is your motto?
What would you like if you can choose to let it happen again?
When is the most beautiful moment in your life?
How would you like to face your death?
What is your favorite in your life?
What character of your friends do you cherish the most?
What phrase do you use frequently?
What is your significant character?
What character of others do you hate the most?
Who do you admire?
Describe your mind-set?
What do you fear the most?
What talent do you want to have?
What is the ideal happiness for you?
I usually (action / behavior) once / twice / three times a week / month.
My favorite (object) is / are (object)…
Because … (reason).
In my opinion, (object) has many advantages
There are two / three advantages…
Firstly, I like (object) because (reason 1)
Not only this, (reason 2). So, (result).
In short, (conclusion).
140214
Movie
Interview
What difficult problem have you ever solved?
How will you deal with the problem in reality?
How do you define ‘difficult problem?’
Describe you latest project.
Who did you work with?
What is the toughest challenging?
How do you organize the resources in the project?
How do you help other people while working on a project?
Describe the most significant moment in your life?
What kind of event may motivate you?
What is the origin of your enthusiasm?
Who are the last one you dismissed?
Did you give them the chance to explain?
Describe your experience about failure.
Would you like to take the risk on the work or the topic of life?
What clothes did you wear last time?
Why did you wear in that way?
What will you do if you are under a pressure?
What do you care most?
How do you deal with heavy work?
What value do you believe in?
What is the power from your heart?
When will you lean in and fight against the unfairness?
Suite…
The girl in the red skirt is…
There is some salt and pepper on the table.
The dog is lying quietly on the grass.
I can see some yellow, pink, and orange flowers growing in front of the fence.
I think the woman is the girl´s mother.
She seems to be pointing at something.
Perhaps they´ve made some homemade soup.
I think they are playing a game, or something.
The man looks around 40 years old.
Propose a solution
Caller’s name:
Request:
Suggestions:
My role:
Step 1
Hello, This is Isaac Jón from Board Building Management returning your call.
Step 2
I received your message about the water problem in your apartment.
I am returning your call regarding (problem).
Step 3
It seems that because of the cold weather last night, you water pipes froze and broke.
In your message, you said that (the process of problem)…
I´m afraid that…
It seems there was some kind of problem with…
I believe there was some confusion over…
So you want, (requirement)
After hearing your message, I checked and found out that (situation).
I think there must have been (explanation).
Step 4
I´m really sorry to hear that your water has stopped.
I´m / We´re sorry that / for / about…
I´d / We´d like to apologize for the mistake with…
We sincerely hope you will accept our apologies for this situation.
Firstly, I am terribly sorry for that inconvenience.
Step 5
We´re sending someone out this afternoon to repair the pipes.
But I am glad to tell you that (solution).
And I will make sure (solution) so you (result).
Also, I would like to give you (compensation).
We will fix the problem immediately…
We´re going to arrange…
We´ll send out…to…
On the other hand,
The only thing I can suggest is…
I´d like to offer you…
However, as this is an emergency, if you can…
Step 6
Once again, I am very sorry for any inconvenience this has caused. If this is OK with you, please call me immediately, and we can get started. Thanks a lot.
Please call us back if you have any more question. Thank you.
If this is good for you, please call me immediately and we can get started.
So as soon as you get this message, please call me right away.
If this sounds OK, please stop by or give us a call.
Please call me, and let me know if this is OK for you.
Imagine that an Australian marketing firm is doing research in your country.
You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about movies.
When was the last time you went to the movie theater, and what did you see?
The last time I went to a movie theater was two months ago on a Saturday, and I watched a movie called Transformer 2 which is about a hero with pioneering technologies.
I think the last time I went to the movie theater was may maybe like six months ago, and I saw the movie Friends with Benefits.
Who do you usually watch movies with?
I usually go to the movies with my wife and sometimes with my friends.
What influences your decision about which movies to see?
I sometimes read about a movie on the magazine, Today’s Cinema. I read the review. I also read about it from Facebook or hear about it on the radio to see what’s new out there, and what the critics say about it.
Well, I think the genre is important. I really like action and political movies. So I like to see a lot of those. Also the director, there are certain directors I like a lot and I like to see pretty much anything they put out and maybe the actors as well.
My name is Jim Saunders. What time am I supposed to give my seminar
You’ll teach from one p.m. to two p.m. The seminar will be in the Smithville Teacher Resource Center.
You are scheduled to give your seminar at one o’clock. And they’re being held at the Smithville Teacher Resource Center.
I have a lot of information to present. It would be great if I could have two hours instead of one. Would it be possible to extend my seminar to two hours?
Yes, because the class after yours has been canceled. So you can teach your class and them the next one from two to three.
Yes, it actually would because the person who is originally scheduled to present at two has canceled. So that is possible.
I might need to use the morning to finish preparing my seminar. What is the schedule for the morning?
It begins at nine, and there is a “Creative Class Presentation” until ten. Then from ten to eleven, “Managing Large Classes.” And from eleven to noon, “Making Homework Interesting.” Then you have you have the lunch break from noon to one.
Well, at nine o’clock, there’s a session by Tim O’Mealy called “Creative Class Presentations.” And at ten o’clock, Ellen Kranston will be presenting her seminar entitled “ Managing Large Classes.” And then at eleven, Ming Ling, Lin will be presenting “Making Homework Interesting.”
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Propose a solution 010414
Hello, this is Martha Ryan calling from the finance office. There’s some money in the budget for improving the office. I’m really interested in doing something that the staff will appreciate. Since you’re the office manager, I’d like you to find a way to collect suggestions from staff for using among the money. Plus, you’ll need to find a way select the best idea from among all the suggestions. We need to submit a proposal for improving the office two weeks from now, or we’ll lose the money, so I hope you can put together a plan quickly. Give me a call as soon as possible to let me know how you plan to collect ideas and choose the best one. Again, it’s Martha Ryan at extension 3948.
Caller’s name: Martha Ryan
Request: select the best idea for improving the office
Suggestions: send out a survey, asking for suggestions by e-mail, vote
My role: office manager
Hi, Martha, I receive your message, and I understand we only have two weeks to find a way to improve the office. So I was thinking of using the first week to send out a survey and collect ideas. And then the second week we can decide which ideas to use and maybe also run them by you, so you can also be a part of the decision.
Hi, Martha, it’s Isaac, the office manager. I got your message about the actual money we have in the budget. And I wish you get the information from people about using this money, what the best way is. I think the easiest way is t send everybody an e-mail, asking for their suggestions about how we can improve the office. And then we have it narrowed down to that selection, we can have everybody vote on what they think is the best option. So for that will be the most democratic way to do it.
Express an opinion 010414
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The Internet has improved communication between people. Support your answer with reasons or examples.
Well, I don’t really believe that Internet has improved communication because it’s made things very impersonal. You can, for example, in the workplace, you can just send a message to somebody who is sitting two feet away from you by Line Apps when you can just easily before you have actually spoken with them face to face. So I think you lose some of that personal contact there. Also I think that people have become kind of informal in e-mail and so on. So, like with the abbreviations and things like that, the level of formality has really gone down. And this is much different than it used to be in the past. So, again I think it’s made communication easier, but as far as the kind of communication people are doing, I don’t really think it’s an improvement.
Yes, I think the Internet has improved communication. For instance, in my case, I live abroad, and yet I can communicate with all my friends and family around the world because of the Internet. I can write to them, talk to them in real time; even see them when I want to.
Write a sentence 010414
The woman sitting on the chair picked up the telephone.
The woman on the telephone looks anxious.
The secretary spends a lot of time on the telephone to clients.
Jessica is on the telephone all the time during working hours.
Right now, the man is reading the newspaper.
My father likes to read newspaper every morning.
The man has a new desk.
The chefs are finishing the desserts together.
We ate in the garden because it was a nice day.
They are probably going bowling after they finish work.
I haven´t got much free time today.
Are you almost ready?
When the train arrived, the passengers went on board.
When the passengers arrived at the platform, they noticed that the train was already there.
Respond to a written request
From: J. Mason
To: F. Carvajal
Subject: Problem during your stay
Sent: Feb. 16, 3:17 P.M.
Dear F. Carvajal,
We understand that you experienced some problems during your recent stay at Summit Hotel.
We regret any inconvenience to you and would like to make sure that these problems don´t happen again.
Could you please describe the problems that you experienced?
John Mason
Manager, Summit Hotel
Dear Mr. Mason,
It was good hearing from you.
I stay at Summit Hotel last week and found the hotel facility very modern and comfortable.
Unfortunately, my experience was spoiled by a couple of problem.
First of all, I´d like to point out that many of the staff seems to be very unwilling to help me.
Also, the air conditioning did not work properly, and it took the technician more than 30 minutes to have it repaired.
Could I please ask you to look into this matter.
I hope you can address these issues soon for the sake of your future guests.
Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to your reply.
Best regards,
Fernando Carvajal.
Dear Mr. Mason,
Thank you for responding to my first e-mail.
To begin with, there were loud noises caused by the construction in the hotel.
When I booked the holiday, the brochure had said the hotel would give us a peaceful environment.
However, I discovered this was not the case, and the construction began too early.
I suggest the hotel organize all building work to begin after 9 A.M. to give people a chance to wake up and have breakfast.
Second, the TV remote control didn´t work properly in our room.
I suggest the service department should consider keeping extra TV remote control in stock, so the broken ones can be replaced right away.
Thank you for your time.
Fernando Carvajal 010414
I would like to make a suggestion. If the air conditioning does not work, it is better to offer hotel guest a new room right away.
I appreciate your e-mail. I feel I have to put my feelings in writing.
From: J. Rice
To: H. Garner
Subject: Computer problems
Sent: March 17, 8:30 A.M.
Hello Mr. Garner,
I am still unable to use my computer.
I have not been able to get any help from the technical help group.
As a manager, would you be able to get me help more quickly?
Thank you,
James Rice
Hello James,
I have read your message and will write to the manager of the IT department immediately.
He will assign a technician to help you as soon as possible.
To expedite the process, could you answer the following two questions?
Firstly, could you tell me the exact nature of the problem?
This way, the IT department can pinpoint the problem more quickly.
Also, I need to know exactly how long it has been a problem.
I know it has been a long time, but can you give me a date of when you noticed the problems occurring?
Thank you again, and I promise it will be sorted out quickly!
Harry
Dear James,
Sorry that it is taking a long time to solve your problem with your office computer.
I will go down to the IT Department before lunchtime to make sure your request is taken care of.
Firstly, could you briefly describe the computer problem you are having?
I will need as detailed an answer as possible to help you more efficiently.
Also, could you find out who did you contact at the IT department to help?
I will ask the IT department to assign a high priority to your request.
I understand you are behind on your work due to the problem.
If there is anything else I could do to help, please let me know.
Harry Garner
Think about a job you have had or would like to have.
In your opinion, what are the most important characteristics that you and the people you work with should possess to be successful in that job?
Use reasons and specific examples to illustrate why these characteristics are important.
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My career goal is to become a diplomat of my country. A diplomat is responsible for the country´s foreign policy. To be successful in the role, I believe such profession should possess several important quantities.
Firstly, one important quality of successful ones is that they should be connected seamlessly to the benefits of each other states and every type of resource available among the international community. Diplomats are expected to stay informed with the issues about the global web. This is usually done through reading a lot of materials or participating in various activities to collect the information about the international state quo. While they may have mastered the knowledge needed to be in such traded, their characteristics of connectedness plays a vital role when they should be able to explain a complicated issue about foreign affairs in a simple and clear way. Therefore, other crewmembers can feel confident that they have understood the issue fully.
In addition to strong connectedness, they also need to be strategic , especially under crisis and chaos. For example, if you were to find yourself working in the confrontation of tensions between both countries, you would never know what would be coming next. These qualified decision makers should play out alternative scenarios with the perspective that allows them to see patterns where others simply see complexity.
Moreover, unlike some other careers, they feel no discomfort with imposing their views on others. Even they are not frightened by confrontation; rather they know that confrontation is the first step toward resolution once their opinion is formed or their goal is set. The strength is important because others may avoid facing up to unpleasantness from exterior relationship crisis.
To sum up, I firmly believe that the ideation will be the last part of their daily life. Apart from professional training, they should be intrigued when seemingly disparate phenomena can be linked by an obscure connection. Then, starting from their perspective of connectedness, they can stabilize the state quo with all four characteristics mentioned before that will help that person succeed in his/her career.
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My career goal is to become a marketing manager of a consumer product company. A marketing manager is responsible for the company’s marketing strategies. To be successful in this role, I believe a marketing manager should possess several important qualities.
One important quality of successful marketing manager is whether or not they stay up to date with the market. Marketing managers are expected to stay informed with the demands of target consumers. This is usually done through reading industry and trade reports or working with financial research firms to collect market information. Understanding the pulse of the market helps marketing managers decide what product features to highlight in advertising.
Creativity is another desirable characteristic. Sometimes a product idea is difficult to convey to the customers. A successful slogan can help capture the spirit of the product and allow consumers to remember your firm and products favorably. An example of a product slogan is Nike’s “Just do it”, which inspires young people to be active.
Finally, an effective marketing manager should be able to think in strategic terms so that the product line yields a desired profit. An example of such a strategic decision is pricing. The manager and his marketing colleagues must be familiar with the cost structure of the product, so they can price products properly. The manager should also be able to develop a realistic budget for the product line and evaluate the financial performance of products to make sure the profit target is achieved.
The head of marketing management plays a critical role in the success of a company, and therefore care should be taken to ensure a well-qualified manager is hired. An ideal candidate for the position is a person who reads a lot to understand the market, is creative enough to come up with good marketing ideas, and thinks in strategic terms.
Although it is not my chosen career, I imagine that being a medical doctor could be incredibly exciting. In this essay, I will explain which personality traits are needed in order to become a successful medical doctor.
Firstly, I believe that a doctor needs very good interpersonal communication skills. A large part of a doctor’s day would be to explain complex issues to the patients. Certainly, medical doctors spend many long years learning and training for their profession. While they may have mastered the knowledge needed to become physicians, not everybody will be as well acquainted with medical jargon. For that reason, a successful doctor should be able to explain a complicated medical issue in a simple and clear way so that no matter who the patient is, and no matter how familiar he/she is with medicine, he/she and his/her family can feel confident that they have understood the issue fully.
In addition to strong verbal skills, a doctor also needs to be a quick thinker, especially under pressure. For example, if you were to find yourself working in the field of medicine, you would never know what would be coming next. Physicians do not always have the luxury of knowing beforehand what is affecting a patient. To make an effective and accurate diagnosis, a doctor must be able to think carefully and quickly. This means you would need to be to think on your feet. It could also mean that some creativity is required to deal with a problem.
In my experience, while many doctors are clearly very intelligent, some do not possess the aforementioned skills. In my opinion, the lack of these skills might greatly hinder their performance. If the attraction of being part of the medical profession is due to money and status, then it is clear that you will never be a caring and successful doctor. However, if you are motivated by the challenge of working under pressure and have excellent interpersonal skills, you might have a good chance of success.
All things considered, it is very obvious that communication is large part of a doctor’s life. Apart from professional training, the ability to think quickly and clearly under stress is also very important. Whether getting across complex information in a manner that is easy for others or explaining what to do next to colleagues, these two characteristics will help a doctor succeed in his/her career.
020414
I firmly believe… / I´m completely in favor of… 020414
I agree / disagree that (question of part 6).
In my opinion… / If I had to choose, I would say…
Given the choice between (proposal 1) and (proposal 2), I’d prefer (proposal 1).
I would prefer…
I´m totally opposed to… / I really don´t agree with…
I believe this because (reason 1) and (reason 2). / I like (proposal 1) because (reason 1) and (reason 2). / To begin with, (cause 1). Because of (cause 1)…
First of all… / I will explain which…
In addition, moreover, also, what´s more, another point
Firstly, (reason 1). For example, (example, experience)
Second, (reason 2). To be specific, (added description)
Some examples include…/ One clear example of this is / For example, / Another example was…
On the other hand… / Although, / Whereas, / Also, (cause 2). Therefore, (description).
However,
Finally, / Last but not least, / In conclusion, / To sum up…
For these reasons, (conclusion). / All things considered, (conclusion).
270214
Read a Text Aloud
The Banking and Finance Day will begin at 2:00 pm with a walking tour around the historic center of Boston. This will take about two hours. We will then have a rest and refreshments will be served at our hotel. A presentation on Overseas Investments in North America will commence at 5:30 pm. Following this, there is free time until we all meet up in the Ballroom for a Dinner Dance at 8:00 pm. Black Tie, please.
Our Fitness Centers tone you up without stripping down your finances! We offer three great membership schemes, and one is bound to suit you. Come as an individual member during working hours, as an individual member 24/7 or as family group member (up to 4 persons) 24/7. The costs are very reasonable, and we offer three superbly equipped centers throughout the city. Visit us at www.fitness.com or call free at 0800-811511.
Describe a picture
This picture show some adults and children on the top of a tall building. It is possible to see the ground, tree and buildings through the wire mesh on the right hand side of the picture. It is a sunny day. In the foreground on the left a man in a grey shirt is pointing at something in front of him. To his left a young girl in a pink and white floral dress and straw hat is looking in the same direction. She has her hand on a telescope. I think she is perhaps the man’s daughter. More people can be seen behind these two.
You have agreed to participate in an interview about housing.
How long have you lived in your present residence?
I lived in my present apartment for about a year. It is a high-rise apartment.
What other types of residence have you lived in?
I lived with y parents when I was growing up – we moved several times. When I was young, we had small low-rise apartment but later owned a traditional Taiwanese farmhouse.
Would you rather live alone or with others? Why?
Well, I would rather live on my own. I find living alone is exciting as I have freedom to come and go without disturbing anyone else. I can also eat what I like and watch my favorite TV program. I have to admit it can be a bit lonely, especially if you are used to having family around you. On the whole, though, the advantages of living alone outweigh the disadvantages for me.
information provided
Freedom Theater, Seattle
(Next to City Hall)
HOW TO BUY YOUR TICKET
In Person
By Telephone: Call 0289-7697
By Post: enclose check
By Email: Send your telephone number to freetheat@theaterland.com. We will get back to you. Do not include debit/credit card details. This is for security reasons.
Come join us – Local Talent Welcome!
We always employ professional directors, but if you would like to act, make stage props, or help out generally, please contact John Edmond, General Manager.
Where can I find you?
We are next to City Hall in Seattle.
I cannot come in person to see you. Are there other ways I can buy tickets?
Yes, indeed, there are. You can telephone us at 0289-7697, write to us or email us at freetheater@theaterland.com. If you email us, please do not include your debit or credit card details.
I have always wanted to direct a play. Am I able to do that in your theater?
I am very sorry but, unless you have professional experience, it will not be possible to direct one of our plays. However, you are most welcome to join us as an actor or to help out with stage props or just generally. In fact, we are very happy to use local talent. Please contact John Edmond, our General Manager.
Propose a solution
My name is Fiona Adams at 963-1726. I often use your services, and I am a member of your Frequent Flyer Club. Last week I used your airline to fly from Washington to Sydney via Hong Kong… The flight was fine, no problems. But the thing is … when I got to Sydney you had lost my suitcase. I was told that it would probably arrive on a later flight and would be sent to me in a day or two. I gave you the hotel address and telephone number but I have heard nothing from you. It’s now ONE WEEK later. Well, I have phoned twice but was told that there is still no news about my suitcase. It contains important business papers that I must have for a meeting very shortly – in 2 days, actually. Please call me today. Again, this is Fiona Adams at 963-1726.
Propose a solution
Caller’s name: Fiona Adams
Request: fly from Washington to Sydney via Hong Kong; but suitcase was los;
Suggestions: free upgrade, sent by taxi, put on a plane today
My role: in charge of handling lost luggage
Hello, Ms. Adams. This is Isaac Jon speaking.
I am replying to your call about your lost suitcase on the Washington/Hong Kong/Sydney flight.
I am very sorry for the inconvenience that this matter is causing you.
I have made inquiries and found that your suitcase was accidentally taken off the plane in Hong Kong.
I’ll make sure it is put on a plane today, and it will arrive in Sydney this afternoon. It will then be sent to you immediately by taxi. As you are a valued member of our Frequent Fly Club, we would like to offer you a free upgrade to Business Class on your next flight with us.
I hope you will accept our most sincere apologies and hope you will find this satisfactory compensation. Thank you. Have a nice day.
I hope you will find this satisfactory compensation.
We hope to have the pleasure of serving you again.
I trust this will help restore your confidence in our service.
I hope you think that this is fair.
Express an opinion
What qualities do you think are necessary for a successful career? Give specific reasons to support your answer.
Well… let me think a moment.
The first quality necessary for a successful career is an ability to work hard. Without this, I do not think it is possible to do well in any job.
It is also necessary to be honest and reliable and to be on good terms with your employer.
Then, there are qualities that are useful in different careers. For instance, a salesman needs to be a very good communicator and also persistent. On the other hand, to be an effective nurse, kindness and patience are essential. A teacher needs a good mind and a fair attitude towards all students. He also needs to write and speak well. On the whole, I think that an outgoing personality will suit someone who seeks a career in, say, sales or the entertainment industry. Perhaps someone who is shyer will be happier in administration or research.
So there are some qualities that are important in all careers, and some that specially apply to certain types.
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Write a sentence
A policeman is riding on the motorcycle.
A woman holding a ticket is discussing with the man next to her.
Several tour buses are running on the road together.
Some people are blocking the road because they are repairing it.
Several customers are sitting on the terrace of the café so that they can talking aloud.
One policeman is sitting on his motorcycle.
The policeman on the right is not sitting on his motorcycle.
The policeman on the left sits on a motorcycle.
A woman discusses something with a man.
A man and a woman are discussing an idea with each other.
A woman is holding a paper and discussing it with a man.
Several buses are moving together along the road.
There are several buses close together on the road.
Several red buses are quite close together.
Several workmen repair the road surface because it is cracked.
Traffic cones are placed on the road because it is being repaired.
Perhaps because the road surface is old, several people are doing repair work on it,
The customers are sitting at a table so that they can have a break.
The customers are sitting at a table so that they can enjoy their drinks or snacks.
Several customers are sitting outside so that they can enjoy the fresh air.
Respond to a written request
From: J. Scott, Scott Caterers
To: Ben Frost, Bayswater Paper Supplies
Subject: Catering arrangements
Sent: 6 October, 4:45 pm
Dear Mr. Frost,
I have recently surprised and disappointed to hear that you will be using another caterer for the buffet lunch at your Annual General Meeting on 29 October. As we have had the privilege of providing food for the 100 or so guest these past few years, I would like to enquire why you have not used us again. I would very much appreciate the opportunity of hearing your views. Your business is very important to us. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jason Scott
Dear Mr. Scott,
Thank you for your regarding our switch to a new caterer for lunch at our Annual General Meeting on 29 October.
I am afraid I had little choice but to make the switch. Firstly, last year, several of our staff reported that some of the fried chicken pieces were still frozen in the middle. This could have cause food poisoning. Besides, when I mentioned this to the person in charge from your company, my complaint was not treated in a satisfactory way. May I suggest that you take all customers’ complaints and comments seriously?
I hope that this has explained the situation.
Sincerely,
Ben Frost
Special Events Coordinator
010314
Dear Mr. Scott,
I am replying your email about that we choose another caterer at our annual meeting. Your service is fine however, firstly, our new work fellows from branches of Islam region prefer another cater company that gets Halal certificate. Then, we have a theme for ‘Vegan year’ and therefore, we change the catering service in order to meet the dietary requirements this year. I suggest that you can apply the Halal certificate and propose a vegetarian menu to cope these requirements.
Best regards,
Ben Frost
From: John Peters
To: Jay White
Subject: Presentation to the Board, August 9
Sent: July 7, 3:49 pm
Hi Jay,
I just wanted to touch base with you regarding your presentation to the Board. We are very much looking forward to seeing you and hearing what you have to say about the marketing potential in Chicago. Do you have any special needs for your presentation? Is there anything our team here can do to help you get ready? Let me know.
Best regards,
John
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Hi John,
Thanks very much for your email.
I have a question. How much time do I have for the presentation? I also do need two pieces of information. Firstly, could you send me information about the sales figures for Vermont this year? Secondly, it would be helpful if you could send me a map that shows the route from my hotel to the venue.
Thanks, John. I look forward to hearing from you.
Jay
010314
Read a text aloud
Our College is unlike any other. How so? Because we offer courses in advanced Sales and Marketing techniques, in a state-of-the-art campus and at an affordable price. Our motto is “Success without Limits”. Many recent alumni are already working in major corporations as senior Sales Managers, earing salaries they only dreamt of before coming to us. Join them. You really can. Call us at 567-8902 for course details. Alternatively, visit us at www.gordon.edu.
Fellow workers – may I have your attention for a minute, please? I would like to tell you about the new company “Get Fit” scheme. This is really important. Being fit means you think sharper, act faster and look better. So please come and join us for a quick run today after work. It will be fun! Now, are there any questions?
Describe a picture
This picture show that a workshop or presentation is going on. At the rear the room, the subject of the talk has been projected onto a big white screen. In front of this two men two men are sitting. The one on the right hand side in the white shirt is talking. The pink curtains on the right of the photograph are closed to keep out excess light. There are three rows of tables extending out into the room. They all have microphones on them so that people can be heard OK. At the bottom left three people are listening to the man who is talking. The woman on the far left is taking notes.
You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about hobbies.
What is your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is photography. I have a digital camera.
My favorite hobby is read and jogging.
Do you have other hobbies?
Yes, I do. I like to read and cook. These are more “inside” hobbies for when the weather is bad.
In what ways are hobbies important to you?
Hobbies are important to me in several ways. Firstly, they relax me. Then, they are very interesting. Taking photographs involves thinking about color, light and angle. Photography, reading and cooking also stimulate my imagination. Finally, I think they make me a more interesting person as I have more to talk about when I meet my friends.
With whom do you practice your hobby?
I usually practice it alone. Sometimes I cook with my girlfriend.
How much money do you spend on your hobby?
I spend between 2000 and 3000 NTD on it a month.
How much time do you spend on your hobby?
I probably spend about 2 hours a week.
What kind of hobby will you want to have?
I would like to travel and take photograph with my girlfriend after graduating from college.
Have you ever change your hobby?
Yes, I read the comic books every week in the past, but now I quit it.
Using information provided
Itinerary for William Downes
10:15 am Arrive JFK Airport. Staff member will meet you. Company car to Headquarters.
12:15 pm Brief tour of Headquarters
01:00 pm Lunch with CEO, David Woodward, and Chief of Finance, Robbie Corfield
02:30 pm Presentation to Board
04:00 pm Question and Answer Session with Senior Sales Executives
05:00 pm Car to Hotel
08:00 pm Meet David and Shirley Woodward for trip to New America Theater: “East Side Story” (a stage play)
Hi, this is William Downes. I have mislaid my itinerary and have some questions.
How will I be getting from JFK Airport to Company Headquarters?
A company representative will meet you at the Airport and take you to Headquarter by car.
Will I be meeting any senior staff before my presentation to the Board?
Yes, you will. You will have lunch with David Woodward, CEO, and Robbie Corfield, who is Chief of Finance.
What is my schedule after the Board Meeting?
Well, I will jest check your itinerary. Yes, here we are. You will have a Question and Answer session with Senior Executives for an hour. Then, at five you will be driven back to your hotel. David and Shirley Woodward have arranged to accompany you to the New America Theater for a stage production. It’s called East Side Story. They will meet you at 8:00 pm.
040314
050314
Propose a solution
Hi there. This is James from World Children’s Entertainment. My number is 0496-7821. Help! I have a real big problem. As you know, every year we put on a show at Thanksgiving for children in our area. Umm… I have just heard that the main event, the puppet show, cannot go ahead as the puppeteer is ill. The show is tomorrow. It is from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. Can you please rescue us? I am awfully sorry to give you such short notice, but … I know you have a lot of experience as children’s entertainer. Can you do a puppet show for us? This is James… 0496-7821. I hope to hear from you urgently. Thanks.
Caller’s name: James
Request: has arranged a puppet show for children but the person is ill; it’s 2-3 pm tomorrow; can you help?
Suggestions:
My role: help put on a show
greetings / summary / situation/ solution/ farewell
Hi, James. It’s Isaac Jon.
I received your call about your children’s show tomorrow.
Well, I am incredibly occupied tomorrow and, frankly speaking, I do not have much experience as a puppeteer.
But we have known each other for a long time, and I would like to help out if possible. So, I suggest moving the time for the show to 2:30 – 3:30 pm. If that is OK, I could do a magic show for you. If involves a lot of magic tricks and some face painting, but not any puppets. I give out quite a few small prizes – sweets and toys. For this reason it will probably cost more than the puppet show. It also tends to be quite noisy as the children can get excited.
Will this suit, do you think? Call me back for a chat – I’m at home this evening.
Express an opinion
It has been argued that many of the things we buy today are “over-packaged” and that it would be a help to the environment if manufacturers used less cardboard, plastic and paper. What is your view on this issue? Use reasons and examples to support your argument.
Let me see now.
Well, I agree with this statement. Many things we buy have far too much wrapping in order to tempt us to spend money.
This has always been true for luxury products such as expensive perfumes and chocolates. Nowadays, the trend seems to have spread to everyday items, especially food. I think it is ridiculous to buy fruits or vegetables with a layer of plastic around them.
Toys for children are also often wrapped in several layer of papers, cardboard and plastic. This is to make the toy look more expensive and colorful. Once the toy is opened, the wrappings are never used again!
On the other hand, it is essential to package, say, a tablet computer or flat screen TV well so that it will not break in transit. Umm… But essential packaging should be distinguished from excessive packaging.
All in all, therefore, I think that we use too much packaging today and we will help the environment by using less.
050314
Write a sentence
The man is holding a paint brush and a buckle of paint.
A man is holding a can of paint and a brush.
The man holds a brush in his right hand and some paint in his left.
A man holds some decorating materials and will perhaps start work soon.
A man next to the hand reel is standing in front of the counter.
A man is standing next to the counter.
A few clerks are sitting or standing next to each other.
There are a few computer screens standing next to each other on the counter.
Several people are looking at the items of exhibition around them.
Some people are looking around the exhibition.
Some people are wandering around an art exhibition.
Pictures are displayed all around the exhibition hall.
A man stands in front of a coffee stand as if he wants to buy some beverages and hamburgers.
If the food looks good, the man will perhaps buy a snack.
The man will buy a snack if the store offers nice food.
The man is wondering if he will buy some food.
Whereas the church looks old, the other building appears to be new.
There is a new building on the left whereas the church next to it looks ancient.
On the right is an imposing old church whereas a new building stands beside it.
Respond to a written request
From: Peter Smith
To: Wendy Tam, Manager, Sales Personnel
Subject: Holiday Leave
Sent: February 12, 9:00 am
Wendy,
Could you please check if I can change my days off next week? I originally asked for Wednesday and Thursday but would like to take Monday and Tuesday instead. Thanks a lot.
Peter
Peter,
As you want to change your days off to next Monday and Tuesday, I want to know that we will be handling the recent significant customers who will arrive on Monday and will be giving a presentation to the Board. Can you prepare the arrangement for the on Monday and for the presentation by yourself?
Wendy
Hi Peter,
I am replying to your request to change you days off next week.
I am afraid your request will cause difficulties. First of all, we are extremely short of staff already on Monday and Tuesday. Secondly, you will need to see a very important customer who is visiting us on Tuesday. This customer has asked to meet our top sales team, and this most definitely includes you! Is there a special and important reason why you need to change? If not, I am sorry that it will not be possible.
Thank you for your understanding.
Regards,
Wendy
From: Sarah Beng, Blue Valley Bus Tours
To: John Black
Subject: Vacancy for Tour Coordinator (Europe)
Sent: April 25, 4:00 pm
Dear Mr. Black
Thank you for your interest in the position of Tour Coordinator (Europe) with blue Valley Tours. I enclose an application form. Please let me have this back soonest. If you have any question about the company or job itself, please let me know.
Sarah Beng
Dear Ms. Beng,
Thank you for your reply. Could you please tell me where the job is based? If possible, I wish that your staff member meet me at the airport and takes me by car to your company. Besides that, could you sent a detailed itinerary for the interview on that day?
Sincerely,
John Black
Dear Ms. Beng,
Thank you for your email and the application form for the position of Tour Coordinator (Europe).
I have a query. Is the job based in Europe or is it necessary to travel to Europe only occasionally? This is important to me as I have a young child to consider. I also have two requests. I would appreciate it if you could send me a brochure about Blue Valley Bus Tours. Also, if I am shortlisted for interview, I could make a Thursday or Friday more easily than other days. Can you arrange this for me?
I look forward to your reply.
Sincerely yours,
John Black
050314
Writing an opinion essay
Before being offered a job, a person will be invited to attend an interview. What attributes and qualities do you think are necessary to show when going for an interview? Give reasons or examples to support your opinion.
I believe that an interviewee should show how much wisdom he or she has, why she or he is a trusted person, and what his or her potential is while going for an interview.
The first reason is that companies tend to employ wisdom candidates, not smart candidates. For example, Google Inc. choose some behavioral question instead of former puzzle-like questions because many of supervisors of human resource department at Google found that those smart candidates would not be capable employees, especially when crisis occurs and they are under a pressure. The head of mentioned department found that only wisdom work fellows can solve these crisis that make these smart ones freeze and fleet and the behavioral tests can only find these one.
The second reason is that many companies go bankruptcy and lose all visible and invisible value because some evil-minded staff cheats on the internal control system successfully and most of supervisors choose to trust them. One of these example is that a clerk who worked at the counter and cheated on the supervisor by faking the receipts that he issued. In the end, he got a lot of money and there was a re-arrangement of our department in my office in the Taitung County Government. Fortunately, most of our work fellows remain and the structure of our department is not totally changed but, from then on, I know that if you employ a person who is not worth trusting, the system cannot stop him or her to cheat on other people.
In addition, an enterprise needs some talents to lead itself to grow and, therefore, to exist. ‘Talents with potential’ means that they are some rather young persons below 45 years old, look like headhunter baits, and show a desire to get promoted and contribute more. For instance, one of my friends, who is named Mark, has failed many times on the job interview. One day, he got a advice from a former HR head, then he attended some activities, got some certificates and, the most important, he showed his eagerness appropriately. Finally, he got the job.
On the whole, I think that these three characters – wisdom, trust, and potential – help you dominant the interview.
Write an opinion essay
There are several different qualities and attributes that a person should demonstrate when attending and interview.
Firstly, it is necessary to know how to dress appropriately. Normally, this will mean dressing smartly and looking business like. For example, it I am asked to go for an interview for a job in sales, then I will dress smartly and make sure I look clean and neat. The way you dress at the interview is an indication of how you will be seen by future customers.
Secondly, it is essential to know something about the company to which you are applying. This entails having done some research into the company’s history and operations, as well as into the particulars of the job. This will enable you to ask an intelligent question about the position for which you are applying.
Thirdly, enthusiasm and a positive outlook are vital. It is important to actually want the job and to convince the interviewer of this. I only apply for jobs that I would like to do. This is important in order to be happy in the job. Also, I think that if an applicant does not really want the job, then this will be obvious.
Finally, there must be evidence that a person possesses the qualities to make a success of the job. Whenever I have been for interview, I have done some research into the kind of tasks that the job entails and also into my own strengths. Different jobs need different attributes. For example, a person applying for a sales position will need an outgoing and friendly personality while an office worker must have excellent communication skills and be well organized.
There are, therefore, a variety of qualities that an applicant needs to show at an interview. If the candidate tries hard in the areas mentioned above, I think there is a good chance that he or she will succeed and get the job.
060314
Write an opinion essay
Recently, valuable mineral deposits were discovered on the outskirts of your hometown. It has been decided to extract them. Do you agree or disagree with this decision? Give reasons or examples to support your opinion.
There are several reasons together with examples that we should undertake the development of mineral deposits on the outskirt of our hometown.
The first reason is that we can get rid of the severe unemployment haunting our town. According to those who express strong opposition, especially the Recue Wild Life League for Taitung City, the Richmonte Prospecting Inc. will provide 500 vacancies once the project is running and, most important, most of these labor force will be permanent residents because it will last for 10 years if the Congress approve it.
The second reason is that they may increase the competition and, therefore, change the atmosphere that many enterprise owners hate to face the competition and confront the innovation. For example, the aero balloon industry in Taitung grow rapidly from when many competitors in other county or city join the market, not from when there is few competitors nationwide. In addition, they are not merely low-educated work force but most of them, about 55% have at least one master’s degree. Our town will change gradually when they move into here.
Moreover, the deposits of rare earth on the outskirt will influent our nation security and peace of the international community as an cluster of strategic substance. It will dramatically change the role of Taiwan between Taiwan, China, Japan and Korea because it will make our national defense perform much better than past without nuclear weapons if it is combined properly with the pioneering technology.
However, many people concern about the environment issue, for instance, the water pollution that may happen while the mining is going on. Actually, I admit that some of the landscape will disappear for good and the discharge water is not as same as potable water. But it might cause serious damage, such as many potential investors may be scared away if we ban the project after they have finished the pre-treatment against the contamination and invest much money but fail in the end.
On the whole, I believe that the prospecting of natural deposits will benefit our local society.
It is not possible to present this decision in black and white terms as many factors are involved. However, all things considered, I support the decision to extract the mineral deposits for the sake of the economic development of my hometown and the surrounding areas.
The first reason for approving the decision is that my hometown is relatively undeveloped, and unemployment is higher than the national average. There is simply no alternative major industry to provide jobs and money in our area. The mining operations will provide many hundreds of new jobs. For example, these will include opportunities for construction and mining workers, drivers, engineers, management teams, town planners and so on.
The second reason is that it will make our town better known as it becomes a center or valuable mineral deposits. In turn, this will lead to more visitors, improved roads and trains, more houses and some supporting industries such as catering services and IT providers. In time, we will probably have an airport. Maybe a college will be built.
Nevertheless, I do appreciate that there are major concerns if the decision goes ahead. Mainly, this is because there will be an inevitable environment cost. The area where the minerals have been found is one of outstanding natural beauty. There are some rare species of butterfly which will be affected. However, I think nature is remarkable for being able to recover from change. Another concern is that mining is an ugly business as it leaves the countryside scarred and produces a lot of dust. With care, however, I think this troublesome part of the operation can be kept to a minimum.
While understanding the environment concerns, I nevertheless believe that our town has to grasp this golden opportunity to create new jobs, become wealthier and contribute effectively to our nation´s wealth. We may well never have another chance.
It is not possible to present this decision in black and white terms as many factors are involved. However, all things considered, I do not support the decision to extract the mineral deposits for the sake of the economic development of my hometown and the surrounding areas.
The first reason for not approving the decision is that there will be an inevitable environment cost. The area where the minerals have been found is one of outstanding natural beauty. There are some rare species of butterfly which will be affected. Another concern is that mining is an ugly business as it leaves the countryside scarred and produces a lot of dust.
The second reason is that our town has no special need of new industry It is well known for handicrafts and tourism. This new plan will stop visitors from coming to the town and, in the end, completely transform the area into an industrial one with new motorways, buildings, airport etc. I do not think that the tourist industry will survive.
The third reason is that a comprehensive survey of the mineral deposits has not been undertaken. We do not know exactly the extent of the valuable mineral deposits near our town. It would be a tragedy if great damage was done to the area only to find that the minerals are all extracted in, say, two or three years time.
Nevertheless, I do appreciate that there will be some advantages, most notably in jobs for local people - construction and mining workers, drivers, engineers, management teams, town planners and so on. Probably, also, more money will be put into education – we may even have our own business school one day. In spite of the possible economic prosperity, environmental consideration cannot be ignored because environment damage, once done, can hardly be recovered.
While understanding the business advantages, I nevertheless believe that our town should reject this plan. We may damage our town and change it for ever.
Hello John,
It was good hearing from you. Firstly, considering the preparation and the place, I want know how many people will attend the presentation. Then, could you ask everyone to shut down their mobiles or other devices during the presentation. Finally, I would like to give the paper what we will discuss about and will be sent to every director of the Board by 8 August. I am looking forward to your reply.
Sincerely,
Jay
Read a Text Aloud
If you’re shopping, sightseeing and running around every minute, your vacation can seem like hard work. To avoid vacation stress, come to the Blue Valley Inn on beautiful Lake Mead. While staying at our inn, you’ll breathe clean country air as you view spectacular sights. With its spacious rooms, swimming pool, and many outdoor activities, the Inn is the perfect place for a vacation you won’t forget.
260114
This looks like a photograph of an Asian market.
It looks hustle and bustle because there are a lot of people and many kinds of green groceries in the market.
In the background, there are several 3-floor buildings – some of them are stores.
They can also be places where people live.
In the middle of the picture is a street corner inside the downtown, where people can buy and sell goods in these blocks.
The man in a blue T-shirt is talking to a woman with a black purse.
What I see in this picture is a noisy market with a corner where some customers are picking fruits.
The market is filled with a lot of venders and stores where customers are talking to each other.
The market seems to be located near an Asian countryside.
The countryside provides many fresh crops.
So it seems like a nice place for shopping green groceries.
260114
Imagine that a Canadian marketing firm is doing research in your country.
For each question begin responding immediately after you hear a beep.
No preparation time is provided. You will have 15 seconds to respond to Question 4 and 5 and 30 seconds to respond to Question 6.
You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about television.
4. How often do you watch television?
I watch TV about 5 times a week, usually in the workdays in the lunch time.
5. What kind of programs do you usually watch?
What I usually watch is the news about foreign affair, the documentary of battles or wars or the travel programs.
6. Describe your favorite television program.
My favorite TV program, Nine at Night, has the contents of curiosity, connectedness and competition and shows the desires of human beings directly.
I think it has much reliable information. I mean the ideas are summarized quickly and properly for you.
You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about clothes.
4. What do you usually wear at school or work?
What I usually wear at work is a pair of jeans and a T-shirt with short sleeves.
5. In what situations do you dress casually?
In my office on weekday, almost all people dress casually and wear jeans.
And then of course, on the weekends and after work, I also dress casually.
6. Do you think companies should allow employees to dress casually at work? Why or why not?
I guess it really depends on what kind of company it is.
In my office, there is little interaction with clients and customers.
I guess it´s not vital for everyone to dress in regular business clothes.
But, in other industries where you are in touch with the public as much, then I think there should be a requirement.
You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about radio.
4. What kind of information do you get from radio?
I usually get news about the weather and also general news about what´s going on in the world from the radio.
5. When and where do you usually listen to the radio?
I usually listen to the radio in the morning on the way to work while walking.
And sometimes I listen to it on the weekends at home as well.
6. What are the advantages of getting information from the radio?
One advantage for me for getting information from the radio is that I can be doing other things at the same time.
Like I said before, I get information while I am walking.
On the weekends, when I am at home, I can be cooking or doing other things.
Also, I think the radio is pretty reliable.
I mean the information is summarized quickly for you, so it seems to be a good source of information.
Information provided
Could you tell me what time the conference starts and how long it will last?
I believe the conference starts at 9 A.M. It will last 7 hour.
How much does conference attendance cost?
It costs $95.00 dollars for each individual and $75.00 for each member of the Business Information Center, but lunch´s not included in Registration fee.
I may not be available for the full day. Could you give me information about the activities in the morning, before lunchtime?
Sure. There are of course lots of other things to do. From 9 to 11, there´s a seminar in Room 210 called ¨Financing Your Business¨ by Martha Rosa, Howard Brown will be hosting a seminar called ¨How to promote your business¨ in Room 312 and John Philips will be hosting a seminar called ¨Planning for Profit ¨ in Room 318 both from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M.
Hi, this is Marsha Syms. Um, I’m calling about my bank card. I went to the bank machine early this morning, you know – the ATM…because the bank was closed so only the machine was open. Anyway, I put my card in the machine and got my money out…but then my card didn’t come out of the machine. And I’m leaving for my vacation tonight so I’m really going to need it…I had to get to work early this morning and couldn’t wait around for the bank to open…Could you call me here at work, and let me know how to get my bank card back? I’m really busy today, and really need you to call me soon. I can’t go on vacation without my bank card. This is Marsha Syms at 555-1234. Thanks.
Hello, Ms. Syms.
This is Isaac Jón from the First National Bank.
I received your message about the bank card and I am very sorry about that inconvenience.
Of course, we want to make sure that you get your card by tonight.
So, with that said, I would like you to call me back and let me know a time when we can talk through the directions together over the phone.
We will be more than happy to help you with that.
If that´s not convenient for you, then perhaps you could give me the name of your travel agency and I can mail the card to the nearest branch so that you can get it.
That´s also another possibility
So, again my name is Isaac Jón.
Please contact me.
Thank you.
Hello, Ms. Syms.
This is Isaac Jón getting back to you regarding your message.
We understand that the time might be a bit tight for you to get your card before your vacation.
What we could is send your card to the nearest branch of us to your travel agency.
Hope that way works for you.
Please get back to me at your earliest convenience.
And if not, we can always talk through the possibilities together on the phone for another way.
So, I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Have a nice day.
Some people prefer to take job that does not pay well but does provide a lot of time off from work. What is your opinion about taking a job with a low salary that has a lot of vacation time? Give reasons for your opinion.
I prefer to take job that does not pay well but provide a lot of time off from work.
I am a idealistic but strategic person and it is tough for me that there is little time off from work.
I think getting much time off is also important to achieve your goal in long term.
For example, when I was seeking job, I compared some similar vacancies to find out which vacancy has highest pay among them.
But they are , at first, those vacancies I choose which have the most time off from work on the human resources web sites.
260114
Write an opinion essay
Drugs are so hard for some people to quit.
The drug dependency causes many problems worldwide.
Some people refer to urge government to ban substance abuse.
Others prefer to legalize certain drugs and the drug market.
As I know, it is much effective that government legalize certain drugs and regular the market to resolve the problems about drug dependency among those developed countries, while those under-developed ones usually ban substance abuse by police or even by military to cope the national interests.
For my country, I recommended that the government to ban substance abuse, meanwhile to research how to legalize the drug market as the way recommended by those 500 American economists in 2010.
Some people prefer to affordable housing policy to resolve the problem of unfairness of wealth and the ruin after the Global Financial Crisis in 2008.
Others prefer to keep the faire laize policy by reducing the governmental budget in the area like affordable housing, in order to maintain the effectiveness of economy.
I prefer to affordable housing to ease the uproar tantrum, especially in my country. According to the statistics of the Ministry of Interior, comparing to the cost of affordable housing, it cost three times more when there are no such policies to accommodating people under available housing.
Because they would cause more costs than what those economists assumed and discussed about the aspects of opportunity costs or social welfare damages, if they were expelled from work force and social network due to being unable to afford a house, both enterprise and government disagree what the invisible hand of economics can make sense in realty, especially the housing policies prevents the overthrown of nation many times.
If a tourism spot is occupied by a spiraling massive violence, would you avoid going there, or do you believe that it’s a something like 50% off tourist package actually when the stepped-up vigilance by officers make tourists safer now?
I will avoid going to some country where there are epidemic of massive violence or plaguing by martial conflicts such like Thailand or Ukraine recently.
Foreign travelers can hardly be protected by travel agency or by Embassy, even though native people may suffer from the drastic social challenges.
It’s not a good chance to 50% more off of tourist package when there are thousand times rates of the possibility of the murder of foreigner when there are conflicts between two opposite groups than air crash, according to the statistics. Think again, the trip may let your family or friends loss a beloved one permanently.
Some people prefer to challenge the environment to gain felicity of welfare, such like the engineering marvel-the Three Gorge Dam in China.
Others prefer to avoid overdeveloping the nature, such like some sections of the reservations for some certain endangered species from the express way in France.
At first, I think that we should modify our life style and leave room for nature as reservation.
Then, we start the development instead if, at any effort, we cannot satisfy the need of infrastructure or industry.
Because of the weakness and sensibility of the wild land of high bio-diversity, many experts have recommended that we had better plan for a decade before starting the development.
For example, there is an endangered fern tree containing a crucial substance to cure the cancer in Taiwan.
In fact, the discovery of the species triggered a series of discussions, about how many creatures had disappeared for good before we find the possible cures for fatal diseases, or some unknown materials that may lead a wave of scientific revolution from them.
Some people will practice the daily routine when it is the doomsday predicted by those prophetic.
Other will do something special on the D-day.
I will practice the daily routine instead of a special list of D-day.
First, almost all predictions of D-day never come to pass.
I will not pay attention to these one to come and make any preparation in the future.
Second, we actually cannot complete all the items on the wish list, if an unexpected catastrophe such like earthquake or tsunami hits, unless you have been trained particularly and had much luck to live a day more.
Will the visa waive program (VWP) among countries increase the likelihood that the people will visit to each other country?
According to the statistics, more than 50% countries of VWP have more foreign visitors and those visitors spend more and give more opportunities to job vacancy when they stay much longer and take trip easily. In other words, it makes sound economic sense that they sign the VWP among countries.
Do you support the movement for lessening wealth gap such as the Occupy Wall Street?
I don’t agree with the idea of such grassroots movement, because it is not a viable way to make changes but it simply calls for a radical enforced redistribution of wealth instead.
Although a statistics – that the share of wealth rises from 19.9% in 1976 to the current 35.6% - suggests that another Occupy Wall Street will make a comeback, the movement will someday be splintered into spin-off groups, with membership and donation dwindled drastically.
Finally, it cannot make repercussions among who is to be blamed for the Global Financial Crisis, unemployment and home foreclosure crisis.
Write an opinion essay
Some people agree that government employ extra surveillance technologies when hosting Olympics or Global Economics Forum.
Other worry that the freedom to speech and the privacy would be invaded when the government deploy soldiers and security workers.
In my opinion, if the government shall not employ extra surveillance technologies during events if the government would invade the privacy and freedom to speech by soldiers or apparatus to monitor the public.
For example, in Beijing and Athens, none of the surveillance systems installed for the Olympics were dismantled, and they have been used to actively monitor and put down social protests that took place in those cities.
Do you believe that the world is comparatively more decadent than in the past, or the world’s enjoying the lower rates of crime, teen pregnancy and other social illness?
I believe that the world is enjoying the lower rates of crime than ever because the mass communication medium makes the public take actions to starvation, warfare, poverty, crime and lack of political freedom.
Therefore, the civil and charity group can be empowered because of technology, then they can decreasing teen pregnancy rates or something decadent.
Should euthanasia be legal?
I think that euthanasia should not be legal because most of countries cannot enforce the regulations and the ethical requirements.
We don’t define exactly whether it is legitimate when patients are not terminally ill or their suffering are just emotional rather than physical.
However, there are more and more countries that will allow “aid in dying” or euthanasia like Netherlands.
Were the court rulings just about the cases of mercy killing?
I think that the court rulings are just, but it is inevitable to cause a social outrage whether the mercy killers are sentenced or acquitted.
For example, in 2004, a British centenarian slit the throat of his suffering wife of 67 years and he was acquitted with the judge calling his deed “an act of love.”
Some people are willing to relocate to a new country, to learn a new language, if there were better jobs and they lived in their native country with high unemployment.
Others are unable to go three years without seeing their family.
Which way do you prefer?
I am willing to relocate to a new country and able to go three years more with seeing my family because the particular situation of my family.
I want to locate my family in a country with an economy, growing at an extraordinary pace in order to begin my career and to waive the shadow of past.
Do you think that those TV watchers get the humor, or they are confused by culture gap in the global space?
I agree that many TV series like <<Louie>> or <<Seinfeld>>, eliminate the culture gap between different groups in the globalized space.
In fact, many high school students learn from these series, due to the plenty of example of avid conversations in the dialogue.
Some people learn something useful from watching TV show.
Others think that TV show has nothing worth learning.
For my industry of foreign affairs, TV series have fewer things worth learning from rather than some classical movies like <<The Thirteen days>>.
I learn the in-and-outs of workplace from online forum, text book and cram school before I entered my current department.
I also admit that my friends believe that they have learned much about the daily dialogues and workplace communications from TV.
Are pubs, night clubs or lounge bars detrimental to society, or do they serve a legitimate function?
I think that they serve a legitimate function in music and after-work life. For example, bands such like May Days and Soda Greens played at pubs before becoming famous in Taiwan. These artists in Taiwan also make themselves shown on the page by night life events.
Express an opinion
Is it more effective to learn at cram school, or is it more effective to learn by yourself? Use specific reason and example to support your opinion.
I think it is more effective to learn at cram school if you prepare the National Exam for Public Servant in Taiwan rather than by yourself.
However, if you prepare for some certificates like TOEIC in Taiwan, I recommend that you´d better learn by yourself.
For example, I pass the National Exam before studying at cram school for 6 months. I found those who studied by themselves with some text books failed in the exam, and if I studied by myself, I would have passed the exam after several years instead. But I found that I wasted tons of money at cram school for TOEIC, then, I dropped out of cram school and spent a few months learning by myself. Finally, I modified my plan and received 725 points which I was dying to get.
Would you prefer to work in an enterprise for other or work as an entrepreneur for yourself? Use specific reason and example to support your opinion.
I prefer to start my business if I had enough money to let me fall asleep easily at night, at least the first 6 months, when I start working as entrepreneur.
I think it is not only important to have the economic freedom, but also to create fortunes for the next generations and the society. After the Global Financial Crisis, I realized that it can´t be a broad way to bring welfare to us by play financial instruments and it can´t be the safe approach to be the guarantee of economic freedom, neither. I choose to work hard and save my money until I will start a new business.
Some people prefer to work alone .Others prefer to work in a team. Which way do you prefer to work and why? Use specific reason and example to support your opinion.
The opinions to the issue may differ from which industry you´re in.
I prefer to work alone. In my industry, almost all persons usually work alone and some crewmembers and supervisors of another department always work in a team. However, I am learning how to work better for being the next leader.
Ideation
You are fascinated by ideas. What is an idea? An idea is a concept, the best explanation of the most events. You are delighted when you discover beneath the complex surface an elegantly simple concept to explain why things are the way they are. An idea is a connection. Yours is the kind of mind that is always looking for connections, and so you are intrigued when seemingly disparate phenomena can be linked by an obscure connection. An idea is a new perspective on familiar challenges. You revel in taking the world we all know and turning it around so we can view it from a strange but strangely enlightening angle. You love all these ideas because they are profound, because they are novel, because they are clarifying, because they are contrary, because they are bizarre. For all these reasons you derive a jolt of energy whenever a new idea occurs to you. Others may label you creative or original or conceptual or even smart. Perhaps you are all of these. Who can be sure? What you are sure of is that ideas are thrilling. And on most days this is enough.
Seek work in which you will be paid for your ideas, such as marketing, advertising, journalism, design, or new product development. Find work in which you will be given credit for your ideas.
Yours is the kind of mind that bores quickly, so make small changes in your work or home life. Experiment. Play mental games with yourself. All of these will help keep you stimulated.
Seek brainstorming sessions. With your abundance of ideas, you will make these sessions more exciting and more productive.
Schedule time to read, because the ideas and experiences of others can become your raw material for new ideas. Schedule time to think, because thinking energizes you.
Discuss your ideas with other people. Their responses will help you keep refining your ideas.
Finish your thoughts and ideas before communicating them. Lacking your Ideation strength, others might not be able to "join the dots" of an interesting but incomplete idea, and thus might dismiss it.
Partner with someone with a strong Activator theme. This person can push you to put your ideas into practice. This kind of exposure can only be good for your ideas.
Partner with someone with a strong Analytical theme. This person will question you and challenge you, therefore strengthening your ideas.
Strategic
The Strategic theme enables you to sort through the clutter and find the best route. It is not a skill that can be taught. It is a distinct way of thinking, a special perspective on the world at large. This perspective allows you to see patterns where others simply see complexity. Mindful of these patterns, you play out alternative scenarios, always asking, "What if this happened? Okay, well what if this happened?" This recurring question helps you see around the next corner. There you can evaluate accurately the potential obstacles. Guided by where you see each path leading, you start to make selections. You discard the paths that lead nowhere. You discard the paths that lead straight into resistance. You discard the paths that lead into a fog of confusion. You cull and make selections until you arrive at the chosen path -- your strategy. Armed with your strategy, you strike forward. This is your Strategic theme at work: "What if?" Select. Strike.
Take the time to fully reflect or muse about a goal that you want to achieve until the related patterns and issues emerge for you. Remember that this musing time is essential to Strategic thinking.
You can see repercussions more clearly than others. Take advantage of this ability by planning your range of responses in detail. There is little point in knowing where events will lead if you are not ready when they do.
Talk with others about the alternative directions you see. Detailed conversations like this can help you become even better at anticipating.
Trust your intuitive insights as often as possible. Even though you might not be able to explain them rationally, your intuitions are created by a brain that instinctively anticipates and projects. Have confidence in these intuitions.
When the time comes, seize the moment and state your strategy with confidence.
Find a group that you think does important work and contribute your Strategic thinking. You can be a leader with your ideas.
Learn how to describe what you see "down the road." Others who do not possess a strong Strategic theme may not anticipate often or well. You will need to be very persuasive if you are to help them avoid future obstacles, or to exploit the opportunities you have seen.
Partner with someone with a strong Activator theme. With this person's need for action and your need for anticipation, you can forge a powerful partnership.
Command
Command leads you to take charge. Unlike some people, you feel no discomfort with imposing your views on others. On the contrary, once your opinion is formed, you need to share it with others. Once your goal is set, you feel restless until you have aligned others with you. You are not frightened by confrontation; rather, you know that confrontation is the first step toward resolution. Whereas others may avoid facing up to life's unpleasantness, you feel compelled to present the facts or the truth, no matter how unpleasant it may be. You need things to be clear between people and challenge them to be clear-eyed and honest. You push them to take risks. You may even intimidate them. And while some may resent this, labeling you opinionated, they often willingly hand you the reins. People are drawn toward those who take a stance and ask them to move in a certain direction. Therefore, people will be drawn to you. You have presence. You have Command.
Seek roles in which you will be asked to persuade others. Consider whether selling would be a good career for you.
You will always be ready to confront. Practice the words, the tone, and the techniques that will turn your ability to confront into real persuasiveness.
In your relationships, seize opportunities to speak plainly and directly about sensitive subjects. Your unwillingness to hide from the truth can become a source of strength and constancy for your colleagues and friends. Strive to become known as a candid person.
Help your colleagues and friends make commitments. You can provide the spark that will inspire them to act.
Find a cause you believe in and support it. You might discover yourself at your best when defending a cause in the face of resistance.
Ask people for their opinions. Sometimes your candor will prove intimidating, causing others to tread very lightly for fear of your reaction. Watch for this. If necessary, explain that you are candid simply because it feels so uncomfortable to keep things bottled up, not because you want to frighten other people into silence.
Partner with someone with a strong Woo or Empathy theme. Some obstacles do not need to be confronted; they can be circumvented. This person can help you to circumvent obstacles through relationships.
Excellence, not average, is your measure. Taking something from below average to slightly above average takes a great deal of effort and in your opinion is not very rewarding. Transforming something strong into something superb takes just as much effort but is much more thrilling. Strengths, whether yours or someone else's, fascinate you. Like a diver after pearls, you search them out, watching for the telltale signs of a strength. A glimpse of untutored excellence, rapid learning, a skill mastered without recourse to steps -- all these are clues that a strength may be in play. And having found a strength, you feel compelled to nurture it, refine it, and stretch it toward excellence. You polish the pearl until it shines. This natural sorting of strengths means that others see you as discriminating. You choose to spend time with people who appreciate your particular strengths. Likewise, you are attracted to others who seem to have found and cultivated their own strengths. You tend to avoid those who want to fix you and make you well rounded. You don't want to spend your life bemoaning what you lack. Rather, you want to capitalize on the gifts with which you are blessed. It's more fun. It's more productive. And, counterintuitively, it is more demanding.
Seek roles in which you are helping other people succeed. In coaching, managing, mentoring, or teaching roles, your focus on strengths will prove particularly beneficial to others. For example, because most people find it difficult to describe what they do best, start by arming them with vivid descriptions.
Devise ways to measure your performance and the performance of your colleagues. These measures will help you spot strengths, because the best way to identify a strength is to look for sustained levels of excellent performance.
Once you have identified your own strengths, stay focused on them. Refine your skills. Acquire new knowledge. Practice. Keep working toward mastery in a few areas.
Develop a plan to use your strengths outside of work. In doing so, consider how your strengths relate to the mission in your life, and how they might benefit your family or the community.
Study success. Deliberately spend time with people who have discovered their strengths. The more you understand how marshaling strengths leads to success, the more likely you will be to create success in your own life.
Make your weaknesses irrelevant. For example, find a partner, devise a support system, or use one of your stronger themes to compensate for one of your weaker ones.
Explain to others why you spend more time building on strengths rather than fixing weaknesses. Initially, they might confuse what you are doing with complacency.
Things happen for a reason. You are sure of it. You are sure of it because in your soul you know that we are all connected. Yes, we are individuals, responsible for our own judgments and in possession of our own free will, but nonetheless we are part of something larger. Some may call it the collective unconscious. Others may label it spirit or life force. But whatever your word of choice, you gain confidence from knowing that we are not isolated from one another or from the earth and the life on it. This feeling of Connectedness implies certain responsibilities. If we are all part of a larger picture, then we must not harm others because we will be harming ourselves. We must not exploit because we will be exploiting ourselves. Your awareness of these responsibilities creates your value system. You are considerate, caring, and accepting. Certain of the unity of humankind, you are a bridge builder for people of different cultures. Sensitive to the invisible hand, you can give others comfort that there is a purpose beyond our humdrum lives. The exact articles of your faith will depend on your upbringing and your culture, but your faith is strong. It sustains you and your close friends in the face of life's mysteries.
Consider roles that ask you to listen and to counsel. You can become adept at helping other people see connection and purpose in everyday occurrences.
Schedule time for meditation or contemplation. Reflect upon: how your religious beliefs affirm your sense of connection to others; how your sense of connection gives you stability through your faith in people, the role of coincidences in your life.
Make a list of the experiences that support your sense of connection.
Explore specific ways to expand your sense of connection, such as starting a book club, attending a retreat, or joining an organization that puts Connectedness into practice.
Within your organization, help your colleagues understand how their efforts fit in the larger picture. You can be a leader in building teams and helping people feel important.
Help those around you cope with unpredictable and unexplainable events. In particular, you can help people find meaning in even sickness and death. Your perspective will bring comfort.
Partner with someone with a strong Communication theme. This person can help you with the words you need to describe vivid examples of connection in the real world.
Don't spend too much time attempting to persuade others to see the world as a linked web. Be aware that your sense of connection is intuitive. If others don't share your intuition, rational argument will not persuade them.
Competition is rooted in comparison. When you look at the world, you are instinctively aware of other people's performance. Their performance is the ultimate yardstick. No matter how hard you tried, no matter how worthy your intentions, if you reached your goal but did not outperform your peers, the achievement feels hollow. Like all competitors, you need other people. You need to compare. If you can compare, you can compete, and if you can compete, you can win. And when you win, there is no feeling quite like it. You like measurement because it facilitates comparisons. You like other competitors because they invigorate you. You like contests because they must produce a winner. You particularly like contests where you know you have the inside track to be the winner. Although you are gracious to your fellow competitors and even stoic in defeat, you don't compete for the fun of competing. You compete to win. Over time you will come to avoid contests where winning seems unlikely.
Select work environments in which you can measure your achievements. You might never be able to discover how good you can be without competing.
List the performance scores that can help you know where you stand every day. What scores should you pay attention to daily?
Identify an achieving person against whom you can measure your own achievement. If there is more than one, list all the people with whom you currently compete. Without measurement, how will you know if you won?
Take the time to celebrate your wins. In your world, there is no victory without celebration.
Seek competitive friends.
Try to turn ordinary tasks into competitive games. You will get more done this way.
When you win, take the time to investigate why you won. Counterintuitively, you can learn a great deal more from a victory than from a loss.
Design some mental strategies that can help you deal with a loss. Armed with these strategies, you will be able to move on to the next challenge much more quickly.
Let people know that being competitive does not equate with putting other people down. Explain that you derive your satisfaction from pitting yourself against good, strong competitors and winning. It is not satisfying to outperform a "hobbled" player.
In the morning, we will visit the famous Monument Tower
and the Modern Art Museum. This part of the tour will end in Restaurant Row,
where you will find a wide variety of French, Italian, Japanese, and Chinese
restaurants. After lunch, we will visit the antique markets in the historic
city of Ironhill.
Describe a picture
This photograph was taken in a very busy city. It looks
busy because there are many taxi cabs as well as a lot of people on the street.
In the background, there are tall buildings – some of them are restaurants. They
can also be places where people live. In the middle of the picture is a cross
walk, an intersection where people can cross the street. The man in the white
outline is telling people it’s safe to cross the street now.
Information provided
This is Charles Marley from the Hudson branch. I don’t
have the most updated agenda, so I have some questions.
Who’s giving the first report, and what is it about?
The first report will be given by Karen Anderson and
David Smith, and it will be about monthly sales.
The Customer Satisfaction Survey Results from Canada will
reported after lunch, right?
No, from the agenda, it appears that the customer
satisfaction survey results will be reported before lunch at 11 o’clock.
I heard that there will be updated from various departments.
Could you tell me more about that?
Yes, we have several updates schedule from 9 to 10 in
three areas. Sarah Hartley will be giving an update in the Research and
Development area. Mary Lambert will be giving an update about technology. And
John Colbert will be updating us on Public Relations.
Propose a solution
Hello. My name is Van Inglés. I’m calling because last
week I bought one of your brand of bicycles from a shop here in my town. It’s
supposed to be a surprise present for my son’s birthday, which is the day after
tomorrow. When I tried to put the bike together last night, there were no
instructions in the box with the parts of bike, and I have no idea how to put
it all together. I called the store where I bought the bike, but they said I’d
bought the last one, and to call the manufacturer about getting the
instructions. So that’s why I’m calling you. I need help – soon! I need to have
this bike together by the day after tomorrow. Again, it’s Van Inglés. My number
is 555-7711.
Hello, Mr. Inglés. This is Isaac Jón from the bicycle
manufacturing company. I received your message about the missing instructions
and I am very sorry about that inconvenience. Of course, we want to make sure
that your son has a very good birthday and we want to make sure that he gets a
good surprise. So, with that said, I would like you to call me back and let me
know a time when we can talk through the directions together over the phone. We
will be more than happy to help you with that. If that’s not convenient for
you, then perhaps you could give me your e-mail address and I can email the
directions to you. That’s also another possibility. So, again my name is Isaac Jón.
Please contact me. Thank you.
Express an Opinion
Some people prefer to learn through books. Others prefer
to learn through experience. Which way do you prefer to learn and why? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
Most of the time, I prefer to learn doing things through
experience. I am very social person and learning things through books is often
boring for me. I think learning through experience is important to create
connections in your brain to help you learn things more quickly and help you
remember how to do those things. For example, when I was learning how to cook,
I used the cookbooks to help and guide me. But it’s only through the experience
of actually cooking and playing around with the ingredients that I was really
able to learn how to do it well.
On Watertown Radio, we talk about what you want to hear
about. Whether it’s movies, sports, or local news, you’ll find it right here.
In addition, we update listeners every hour on the weather and traffic
conditions in our area. Now stay tuned for the local news, where we’ll tell you
all about today’s important events.
Attention, passengers for World Air flight 413 to London.
We will start general boarding for this flight in fifteen minutes. However,
we’d like to begin with pre-boarding now. Pre-boarding is for passengers with
small children, those needing assistance, or members of our World Air Frequent
Flyers Club. When we are ready to begin general boarding, we will make another
announcement.
Describe a picture
What I see in this picture is a quiet neighborhood with a
playground where families and friends are playing with their small children.
The playground is filled with a lot of playground equipment where children are
going up and down the slides. The parents are talking to each other. The
playground seems to be located near certain homes. The houses are next to each
other. So it seems like a very nice and good community to raise children.
Information provided
When is the workshop on interview skills?
I believe that workshop on Interview skills takes place
at 2 P.M. to 4 P.M.
The speech at 9 o’clock…is it being given by Henry Stone,
the author?
No, I am sorry. That information is different from what I
see. The first speaker will be Carla Hernandez, who’s the president of the job
center.
Besides going to the discussions, what else can people do
at the job fair?
Of course. There are lots of other things to do besides
the discussions. From 10 to 12, there’s a workshop in Area C called Writing the
Perfect Résumé. Also, anytime between 10:30 and 5:00, you’ll have the
opportunities to visit the representatives from 20 local companies in the main
hall.
Propose a solution
Hello, this is Lydia Han. This message is for Mr. Pat
Johanson in Personnel. Mr. Johanson, it’s 7:30 Tuesday night. I got a letter
today scheduling me for a job interview at 8:00 A.M. Thursday. I may have a
problem getting to your office by that time. I’ve never been there before, and
I live about 30 kilometers from the city center. If I drive in, I’m not sure I
will be able to find parking near your building. I know parking is very crowded
in City Center. If I take the train in, I don’t know how close your building is
to Central Station. The earliest train arrives at 7:40. Can I walk to your
building by 8:00? I don’t want to put off the interview, but I don’t want to be
late. Can you advise? Thanks. Lydia Han. 555-4321.
Hello, Ms Han. This is Isaac Jón from Mr. Johanson’s
office. Mr Johanson gave me your message about your interview time. We won’t
need to reschedule. You’re going to have plenty of time. I am sorry that the
specific directions weren’t included in the letter that we sent you. Anyway, I
am calling to let you know that the central train station is very close to our
office. If you take that early train in the morning, you will have plenty of
time for the job interview. What I’ll do is I will actually meet you in person
at the train station. So, I am looking forward to meeting you. Thank you.
Hello, Lydia. This is Pat Johanson getting back to you
regarding your message. We understand that the time might be a bit tight for
you to come into the office by 8 A.M. on Thursday. What we could do is schedule
you to come in to see us at 8:30. That way, you’ll have enough time to come
here either by car or take the earliest train. Hope that time works for you.
Please get back to me at your earliest convenience, whether 8:30 fits for. And
if not, we can always reschedule for another date. So, I am looking forward to
hearing from you. Have a nice day.
Express an opinion
Is it better to enjoy your money when you earn it, or is
it better to save your money for some time in the future? Use specific reasons
and examples to support your opinion.
I think it’s better to save your money for the future,
especially for me. I am pretty young and I think a lot of people in my age tend
to spend their money and they don’t save enough. Maybe they won’t have enough
money to be able to live comfortable lives when they retire. My parents are
good examples. My dad did a very good job saving money. They are both retired,
and they are in their sixties. They are able to go on a lot of trips and do a
lot of fun things now. They are still pretty young. People are living longer so
they can enjoy money later in life. I think it’s important to save money for
the future.
I think it’s good to earn your money and save it but also
to enjoy it. Sometimes it’s good to enjoy it because I can use my money to buy
something like a CD or even to take my girlfriend out. That’s a good way to
enjoy what I earn. I also believe it’s good for us to save money because in the
future you also want to save for that apartment that you want or to travel to
see certain places. I think it’s good to do both It’s good to enjoy yourself
and save for the future.
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