Contents (1) (1) UNIT ONE Introduction to IELTS Speaking Module + I .A Brief Outline of the Speaking Module --- Il .Skills for the Speaking Module --~ (3) UNIT TWO Phase 1: Introduction (12) 1 . Introduction (12) I] . Requirements = (12) Il Dos and Don’ ts --- + (12) WV. Useful Expressions (13) \ . Exercises (14) Vi. Answer Keys (1s) UNIT THREE Phase 2; Extended Discourse --- (17) I . Introduction ++ (17) (17) (18) I] . Requirements Ml .Dos and Don’ ts IV. Useful Expressions (18) V . Exercises (19) Vi. Answer Keys ++ e+ (24) UNIT FOUR Phase 3: Elicitation (29) Exercises (35) (39) I . Introduction (29) II Requirements (29) Tl Dos and Don’ ts -- = (30) WV. Useful Expressions + (30) Vv. M. Answer KeysMI .Cue Cards for Role Play (41) Wi. Possible Questions and Answers for Some Situations (49) FIVE Phase 4: Speculation and Attitudes + (98) 1 Introduction « + (98) IL Requirements ++ + (99) Ill Dos and Don’ ts --+~ * (99) IV. Useful Expressions. ++ ~ (100) V . Exercises -* + (104) M.-Answer Keys + (107) AT SIX Phase 5; Conclusion + (109) I . Introduction + (109) I] .Requirements ~ (109) II .Dos and Don’ ts + (109) IV .Useful Expressions -- + (110) UNIT SEVEN Possible Questions From the Interviewer and Suggested Answers (1) I .Possible Questions + (ID Tl Suggested Answers -* = (121) UNIT EIGHT Useful Words and Expressions for IELTS Speaking Test. --- (167) UNIT NINE Oral Function Bank -- - (181) UNIT TEN Sample Interview - (199) UNIT ELEVEN Strategies for IELTS Speaking Test - » (208) Appendices + (221) I .IELTS Application Form + (221) Il .Brief Introduction to IELTS ~ (223)UNIT ON Introduction to IELTS Speaking Module I .A Brief Outline of the Speaking Module (10-15 minutes) Phase 1: Introduction 1-2 minutes Exchange greetings Check the candidate's identity Settle the candidate down ‘Ask basic personal questions about candidate's life, town, etc. Skills /Functions + Using social formulae * Providing personal information * Providing general factual information Phase 2: Extended Discourse 3-4 minutes Encourage candidate to speak at length Skills / Functions * Providing general factual information Expressing likes and dislikes Giving directions and instructions Narrating events and sequences of events Explaining how something works or why something is the case Topics + Marriage ritual or wedding ceremony * The teaching of Science/Arts in schools * City life + Family life + Festivals * Leisure interests Travel by air + Tourism* Pollution * Industries and industrialization + Education systems * Style of architecture in the candidate’s country + Equipment in schools * Income, distribution of wealth and poverty Phase 3; Elicitation 3-4 minutes Get the candidate to elicit information using ‘information gap’ activities Skills /Functions * Eliciting general factual information + Expressing needs, wants, likes and dislikes * Eliciting information about objects, events and sequences of events * Eliciting opinions, attitudes and values * Eliciting explanation of how something works or why something is the case Phase 4; Speculation and Attitudes 3-4 minutes Encourage the candidate to speak about academic and vocational interest and talk about future plans ‘Skills /Functions * Providing general personal and factual information + Expressing needs, wants, likes and dislikes + Expressing opinions, intentions, attitudes, moods, possibilities, values and emotions + Describing and comparing objects, events and sequences of events + Explaining how something works and why something is the case * Speculating on future events and their consequences Phase 5: Conclusion 1 minute To round off the interview (Skills /Functions * Using special formulae * Saying farewell, thankingIl . Skills for the Speaking Module Before the test begins, the examiner will check your identification. For security reasons you will be asked to bring your passport or some other photographie identifica tion. You will be asked to sign your name, which will be matched up with the photo- graph and signature on your IELTS application form. The test will then be conducted in five phases, which we will now describe in tum. Phase 1; Introduction In Phase 1, the examiner will first introduce himself or herself and will invite you to do the same. You may be asked some general questions about your back- ground, family, home or personal interests. SKILL Greeting the interviewer and introducing yourself. Phrases you could use: + ‘Good afternoon. My name is (name) . * + ‘Hello, my name is (name) , but most of my friends call me __(shortened version of name/nickname)." Think about questions that the examiner might ask about the personal informa- tion you provided on the application form. With a partner, take turns interviewing each other with questions based on this information. Try to give full and comprehen- sive answers to each question. Phase 2: Extended Discourse In Phase 2, the interviewer will encourage you to speak for a longer period of time on a familiar topic. You may be asked to speak on topics related to your country, such as customs or lifestyle, and your personal involvement with these. The aim of Phase 2 is to show the interviewer that you can describe something, tell a story, give information or directions or express your opinion without relying on the interviewer to help you through the task. The idea is for you to talk and give as much information as you can. Do not sim- 3should be like a conversation. Do not memorise responses. If you appear to be reciting from memory, the examiner ply answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Remember, the intervi will interrupt and ask a different question. Before you begin preparing for Phase 2, you may wish to make a list of topics re- lated to your country, culture, lifestyle, personal interests, ete. Once you have com- pleted such a list, form questions that relate to each of the skills for this phase. Think about possible questions that could be asked. With a speaking partner, practise interviewing and being interviewed. Try to give full and comprehensive answers to each question. SKILL Providing general factual information. Questions you may be asked: + ‘What are some important festivals in your country?” * ‘What kind of climate does your country have?” * ‘What are some of the main industries in your country?” SKILL Expressing your opinions and attitudes. Questions you may be asked: + ‘What do you enjoy about the traditional music of your country?” + ‘What do you think are the positive and negative aspects of your country’s e- dueation system?” * ‘Would you prefer to live in the city or in the countryside and why?” SKILL Describing a place, event or situation. Questions you may be asked: * ‘Could you describe the village/town/city in which you grew up?” + ‘What happens during (cultural event, such as Chinese New Year /Christ- mas) in your country’? * ‘Could you tell me how you like to spend your leisure time?’ SKILL Comparing places, events or situations. Questions you may be asked:“How is (city where candidate is studying) different from (candidate’ s home city)?” “What is the difference between shopping in (city where candidate is study- ing) and shopping in ( candidate’ s home city)?” “What do you like most about living in (country where candidate is study- ing)? How does that compare with ( candidate’ s home country)?” SKILL You should be able to give directions and instructions. Questions you may be asked: * ‘Could you tell me, in detail, how you got from your home to the test centre this morning?” * ‘If | had to catch a train or bus in ( candidate’ s home city), what would | do?” * ‘If 1 were to meet (an important older person) in your culture, how should T greet them to be polite and show respect?’ SKILL You should be able to retell a story or a sequence of events. Questions you may be asked: + ‘What happens in (an important festival ) in your country?’ + ‘What isthe most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?’ + ‘What did you do when you were preparing to leave ( candidate’ s home country) to come to (country of study)?” SKILL Explaining how or why something is done. Questions you may be asked: * ‘Why do people do that?’ ( referring to something just mentioned ) * ‘Could you tell me more about the procedure involved in ( the topic under dis- cussion)?” + ‘How do people celebrate the New Year in ( candidate’ s country)?’ Phase 3: Elicitation In Phase 3, the interviewer wants to ascertain how competent you are at gaining ~ osinformation on a given topic. ‘You will be given a card. On this card will be written a brief outline of a particu- lar situation. The card will state your role and the role of the interviewer. You need to ask questions to find out more information. The card will suggest things for you to ask but these are only given to you as a guide. Do not feel compelled to follow these suggestions if you have ideas of your own. You are responsible for starting the conversation and, to some degree, develop- ing and directing the flow of dialogue. To prepare for Phase 3, select one of the exercises from the Practice work cards below. Practise asking questions with a partner. ‘TRIP FOR OVERSEAS STUDENTS ‘You have been invited by your university to | attend a special ovemight excursion. The in- terviewer is the Student Activities Coordina- tor. Ask him or her for details about the trip. FIND OUT ABOUT: date ‘transport accommodation cost dlothing food activities registration PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION ‘You have just arrived in a new city and need to find out about the public transport sys- tem. The interviewer is a Public Transport Information Officer. Ask him or her for de- tails about using the system. FIND OUT ABOUT: types of public transport where to buy tickets fares student discounts timetables /frequency ‘operating hoursSTUDENT IDENTITY CARD | You have just enrolled as an overseas student and need to apply for your student identity card. The interviewer works at the Student Resource Centre. Ask him or her about get- ting and using the card. FIND OUT ABOUT: applying for the card fees waiting period where to use the card student discounts card renewal what to do when the card is lost Phase 4; Speculation and Attitudes SPORTS FACILITIES You are a new student on campus and want | to find out about the sporting facilities there. The interviewer is the Sports Services Offi Ask him or her for information about fa- and services. ci FIND OUT ABOUT: types of sports facilities rules and regulations borrowing equipment sports teams membership fees student sports shop ‘opening hours changing-room facilities In Phase 4, the interviewer will converse with you in greater depth on a particu- lar topic. Topics that may be discussed include your plans for the immediate and long- term future and the impact that these may have on you and your family. Your opinion about, attitudes towards and reasons for your particular future plans may also be dis- cussed. The interviewer may not understand or agree with some of your responses. You may be asked to expand or elaborate on some point that you have made, so be pre- pared for such a response. Being prepared, however, never means memorising set re- sponses. During Phase 4, the interviewer will allow the discussion to become more com- plex. He or she may refer to other comments you have previously made, so you may have to defend your opinion or give a more detailed explanation of an idea you have al- ready mentioned. Before you begin preparing for Phase 4, you may wish to make a list of your fu- ture plans under the headings of academic, professional, personal and possible conse- quences of these plans. Also, make a list of topics that relate to your personal inter- ests in life as well as a wider range of topics relating to your country, profession and specific area of study.SKILL Discussing your future plans. Questions you may be asked : + ‘Tell me what you plan to do when you finish your undergraduate studies. " + ‘Have you thought about which university you would like to study at and why?’ * ‘How did you come to choose (a chosen area of study)?’ * ‘Would you ever like to have your own business? Why or why not?’ Here are some key phrases you could use: l 1 In the future T hope to successfully | foundation I would like to complete course. a master’s degree. In a few years I intend to graduate from the University of | [I'm planning to | study at Riversdale. Astoria College. | In two years what [have in major in Psychology. | ‘mind is to study International | explore the area of | Trade. | Marketing. Within three years J imagine I will receive aBA. complete an MA. an MBA. | a Ph.D. SKILL Expressing your feelings, opinions and attitudes. Questions you may be asked: + ‘What are your thoughts about (controversial issue)?” * ‘How would you feel if (a controversial issue) were to happen in the next three or four years?” + "You seem to support (a controversial viewpoint ). Why is this?” + ‘Have you ever had to choose between (X) and (¥)? How did you make this, decision? How did you feel as a result of your choice?”SKILL Explaining why you made certain decisions in the past and giving reasons for your plans for the future. Questions you may be asked: + ‘How did you know that you wanted to become a ( candidate’ s choice of profession)?” * ‘When did you decide to study overseas? What influenced you to make this decision?’ * ‘Why have you decided to study ( candidate’ s choice of study)? How will this help your future career?’ SKILL Expressing agreement and disagreement. Questions you may be asked: + ‘Tagree with you to a point on this matter, but could you expand on it a little more, please?” “I'm not quite convinced by what you are saying. Could you develop your idea more for me, please?’ “I’m sorry I don’ t quite understand what you are trying to say. Could you put it another way, please?” Phrases you could use when agreeing: + ‘Well, of course... Naturally... couldn't agree more...” Phrases you could use when disagreeing: + ‘I'm sorry. I can't agree with you. ...T don’t really think so...” * ‘That may be so but... Unfortunately, I have a different point of view. .. SKILL Discussing hypothetical situations and speculating on future events. ‘Questions you may be asked: * ‘How do you think having a degree from an overseas university is going to help your job prospects when you return to (candidate’ s home country)?” + ‘Do you think that the time spent studying in a foreign country is going to benefit you personally? If so, in what ways?’ * ‘How do you think your country benefits when students return from studying 9abroad?” SKILL Following and responding to changes in tone and direction in the interview. Questions you may be asked: * ‘Do you have any regrets about choosing ( candidate’ s choice of profession ) or (candidate’ s choice of country in which to study)?” “If you could repeat the last year of your life, what would you do different- ly?” “What advice would you give other students planning on ( studying over- seas)?” Phase 5; Conclusion This 4. The interviewer will let you know that the interview has come to an end, wish you good luck and say goodbye. You can prepare yourself for this phase by becoming familiar with common ex- is the final section of the assessment and will naturally follow on from Phase pressions of leave-taking, noting them and practising responses to them. SKILL Noting that the interview is finishing and saying thank you (with a smile! ) Phrases you could use: * ‘Could I ask you to speak more loudly please?” * ‘Sorry but I didn’t catch that. Would you please repeat what you just said?” * ‘I'm not quite sure what you mean. Could you explain it to me?’ Coping with the interview There may be times in the interview when you may not understand what the ex- aminer is saying because he or she may be speaking too softly or to quickly. Perhaps the examiner may be using words or phrases you do not know. At these times, do not be afraid to assert yourself. Ask the examiner to speak more loudly, more slowly or to use other words. Also, do not hesitate to ask the examiner to repeat his or her words at any time.Phrases you could use: * ‘Could I ask you to speak more loudly please?” * ‘Sorry but I didn’t catch that. Would you please repeat what you just said?” * ‘I’m not quite sure what you mean. Could you explain it to me?”UNIT TWO Phase 1: Introduction I . Introduction: ‘The interviewer will introduce him/herself and may begin the interview by asking you some questions about the information you gave on your application form. This form has information of your educational and work background as well as your plans. It will help you in this section if you fill out the form carefully. This section tests your ability to use social area provide information about your- self and to state facts. It is not likely to seem very difficult. The interviewer’ s main stage is to help you relax} aim at this Il .Requirements: ‘The requirements for effective performance in Stage | are that you * introduce yourself in a relaxed, friendly manners * produce basic information about yourself simply, ate and as fluently as possible; + present yourself as a person who is willing to tall: and has interesting things to say about yourself. Remember: Stage \ is mainly concerned with who you are, what you have done , and briefly what you aim to do in the future. Il .Dos and Don'ts: * v x 1. Show the examiner you are confident 1. Do not tell the examiner that you are by smiling and looking at him or her nervous or Bin your eyes or move 12in the eye 2. When the examiner shakes your 2. hand, return his or her handshake firmly. 3. Answer the questions you are asked 3. as clearly and in as much detail as possible. 4. Show that you are in control by talk- 4. ing freely about yourself and your past. 5. Make sure you have practised enough, 5. before the test so that the past ee you use are accurately. formed and appropriate, 4 LR IV .Useful Expressions: about too much. Do not shake hands with the examin- er as if your extended hand were a cold wet fish! Do not cut the conversation short with answers of only one word, or short answers. Do not wait for another question if you know that the examiner wants you to keep talking. Do not be afraid to correct yourself if you make a grammatical mistake. But fluency is more important than grammar at this stage. 1. Greetings used when you meet somebody for the first time : How do you do? Glad to meet you. Pleased to meet you. Nice to meet you. Delighted to meet you. Good morning /afternoon/evening. Hello/Hullo! (informal ) Hi! (informal) 2. Other useful expressions What exactly would you like to know? ‘As you can see from my IELTS appl Perhaps I can begin by telling you about. . . ion form. .. Recently, I've been studying /working at... . I’ve been studying English now for (I year). .. The reason I’m taking the test is because. . Would you like to know about. .? Before that I studied/worked at. At the moment I’ m studying/working at. . . 2BHave I answered your question? Is there anything else you wish to know? V . Exercises: Exercise 1 ‘The following personal information questions could all be answered by simply saying “yes” or ‘no’ or by using a single word. However, in an interview situation you will give a much better impression by answering them as fully as possible. ‘Look at the first question below and a possible answer, and then answer all the questions by giving as much information about yourself as possible. Example question: Are you married? Example answer: Yes, | am. My husband is a teacher at a local college. «Are you married? Have you got any children? . What do you do exactly? . Where are you from? How long have you lived here/there? . What do you like doing in your spare time? « Have you ever been abroad? Naweene Exercise 2 Which of the answers to the questions below do you think are good answers? Why (not)? Work with a partner and ask each other the same questions. (If you are alone, record yourself. ) ‘Questions: Answers: 1. Where do you live? In Beijing. 2. Where are you from? Well, I was born in Shanghai, but I’ve lived in Beijing since I was 4.3. What do you like doing in I like swimming. your spare time? 4, Can you tell me about your research? Yes. I’m part of a team at the university trying to develop a low- cost satellite communication system for third world countries. Exercise 3 Read the dialogue below: Interviewer: Right. So tell me about your family. Candidate: Well, I have three children, two boys and a girl. My, mip : Uraoys wife’s a nurse and all of my children are at fie? school. Interviewer: Oh, I see. And do you live in the capital of your country? Candidate: Yes, we do. We’ ve got a small flat—too small really, but we’ re used to it. We share a garden with other residents in the block. Now ask a partner to ask you the same questions asked in the dialogue, and a few more using the personal information topics such as jobs, interests, family, study, hometown and ambitions. VI. Answer Keys: Exercise 1 1. Are you married? Yes, Iam. I got married eight years ago. 2. Have you got any children? Yes, I have a six-year-old boy. He is going to school. + What do you do cae / +e le: ere T work in an investment ompany. My major work is to liaise with the which our company has invested in 4. Where are you from? oeI'm from Qingdao, a beautiful seaside city in Shandong province. .. How long have you lived here/there? I lived there for 20 years. Two years ago I came to work in Beijing. 6. What do you like to do in your spare time? agp, | like swimming. I think swimming is an ideal sport for physical exercise. 7. Have you ever been abroad? No, I haven't. I hope to go abroad some day and have a look at the world. aw Exercise 2 Answers to questions No. 2 and 4 are good ones because the person tries to give more information related to the topics.UNIT THREE Phase 2: Extended Discourse I . Introduction: You willbe asked tg tat about one or more topics. The topic, or topics, will general- ly be some asy your own country, of its life, culture and customs, or some as- pect of your own experiences. This section tests your ability to talk about a familiar general or personal topic. It tests ow well you cn give general nfgmatigns describe directions, provide a description, make a comparison, describe cae a 8 dec ow meting mr i| ay \fe It is not a good straté&y*to memorise a ‘ talk” on a likely subject. Firstly the inter- viewer will change your topic if it seems you have learnt something by heart. Secondly interviewers want you to be able to hayg a conversation an the topic, not to deliver a ae 3 wih uns or es. af thecoweretion, However, yo ave sill expated to tke the ite fe tion. ‘This means that you should develop the topic as far as you can, offer your own lecture. The interviewer may ideas and give explanations if necessary. Do not simply answer ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to the interviewer’ s questions. Tl .Requirements: The requirements for effective performance in Stage 2 are that you * talk at some;l iyen topic without a lot of help from the examiner, and if onthe a ita AF opinions, or give formal, objective points of views * explain, describe or naryate ing or has happened regarding the t is iat RIS Yon HO At + show yourself willing to discuss the topic, even if you know very little about it, in which case you will need to talk around the topic.Remember : topic often related to your interests. I .Dos and Don’ ts: v 1. Organise your reply by first commenting on the topic given. > . Then think of at least 2 main aspeets of the topic that are worth discussing. x » . Explain thet you will discuss each aspect in tum bo wt begin your galle in LG ly and objet is earnest. best) * Try to talk around a difficult topic by guessing. Using ‘maybe’, ‘perhaps’ etc. It is much better than saying noth- ing! IV .Useful Expressions : Stage 2 is concerned with your ability to speak in organised detail on a x . Do not say that you cannot talk about the topic, or that you’ ve never thought about it. Do not worry if you do not un- derstand a question/topic. Ask the examings to, repeat it. |. Do not ied ‘much. Keep to the topic. Otherwise it will appear as though you do not un- derstand what the qui is. topic . Do not wait for questions—show that you are capable of discussing the topic without being prompted by the examiner. Could you please rephrase that question/topic? I’m not exactly sure what you mean. . . I’m not exactly sure how to answer that question, but (perhaps)... . That's a rather difficult question, but (maybe). . . I’ m sorry, but I don’t know much about. ... that... However, it might be possible Maybe I can answer your question by telling you about a personal experience I had... That's an interesting question. . . Let me see. Well, I suppose that... Well, I think there are 2 (or 3 or more) reasons: First,... 18 Second, . . . Final-lyse. In my opinion, there are three ways of looking at it: First of all,... Next, Then,... ‘You can state you have finished by saying: Have I given you enough information? Is that all you'd like to know? 1 think that’s about it. Would you like me to tell you more about. . I'm afraid that's about as much as I know. I can’t think of anything else right now. I think that’s all. That's it, I think. Have I answered your question? Does that give you a clear idea? You can invite your interviewer to talk by saying: I think you know more about this than I do. Bob, don’t you agree? What's your opinion? What do you think? Texpect you will agree with me when I say... T don't know what you think, but... V .Exercises: Exercise [0 ©) On the tape you will hear two dialogues in which the candidates answer the inter- viewer’s questions about the same topic in two different ways. 1. Decide what they are talking about. 2. Decide which candidate gives the better answer. Why is it better? 3. Work with a partner and talk about the following topics: yourself. )+ a major festival in your country * your job + the university/college you have graduated from * your hometown Exercise 2 Spend a few minutes thinking about things that make your country’s culture and customs special and different from other countries. ‘Talk about the following topics and other ideas you may have: Marriage: Festivals: ‘Transport: Folk tales and songs: Exercise 3 At what age? What kind of ceremony? What kind of preparations are necessary? What are the major festivals each year? What do most people do at this time? Is there any special food? Is there a special kind of traditional transport? How do most people travel today? What about in the past? Is there a group of stories or songs that all people know? How do you learn them? Do you know their origins? Continue the candidate’ s answer to the following questions. Record and analyse your answers, paying particular attention to their organization: 1. Interviewer: Candidate: 2. Interviewer; 20 Tell me a bit about your educational background. Well, first I went to... Do you find American English easier to understand than British English?Candidate: Yes, I do/No, I don’t... 3. Interviewer: T have never been to your country. What’ s Candidate: ‘That s big question. .. 4. Interviewer: Which is the best university in your country? Candidate: I suppose X is, because. . Exercise 4 Practise talking about the follor Discuss (in detail) * the advantages and disadvantages of the use of computers * the banning of alcohol and tobacco advertising in the media * price differences between various items in your country and Britain/Australia/ Canada * examinat ns at school in your country and their relevanc: + the importance of video and television in education * the causes and effects of traffic jams in major cities + the qualities and skills required of a good company manager Describe (in detail) * the recreational facilities in your city/town, * the night life in your city/town + the public transport system in your city/town + an interesting vacation you have taken recently * how a vacuum cleaner or other modern appliance works your journey to this country your first impressions of (your host country) Cin detail) « the rules of basketball(or your favourite game or sport) * how space travel can be of benefit in the future * why crime occurs in modern citi * the need for an international language Exp 2* why you chose your particular field of study Narrate (in detail) +a folk story in your culture that has significance * the plot of a good book you have read recently Exercise 5 What summary sentences or phrases would you use in your answer to the following questions? 1. What did you study at high school? 2. Which is the most popular sport in your country? 3. How do people spend their weekends in your country? 4. Could you tell me why you choose to study at the Ut Exercise 6 In the speaking part of your test your interviewer may ask you to talk about some- thing relevant to you. We have started a list of general topics which could be discussed: Festivals and Holidays Economy and Trade Famous Places Education Food Sports ‘Transport and Communications Hobbies If your interviewer asks you to tell him/her about one of these topics, he/she is ex- pecting a detailed description. “Just a Minute’ Work with a partner or group if possible. This is a game which can be quite fun in your own language as well as English. Ask your partner to choose one of the topics given in the list above. Your partner should time you. See if you can speak for one minute on this topic without stopping.To make the game even harder your partner can stop you if you make any mistakes. Exercise 7 On the tape you will hear two people explaining how to do something. 1. The first time you listen, decide what they are explaining. 2. Now listen again, and decide which of the two descriptions is clearer. Why is it clearer? Make some notes of the features which help you to understand it. 3. Work with a partner or group. Think of something to explain. Possible topii * How to play a sport/game * Application procedures (job, college, elub) * How to use a piece of equipment * How to borrow a book from a library Without telling your partner(s) your topic, give an explanation of how to do/use its they should decide what it is you are explaining, and if possible tell you how clear they thought your explanation was. Exercise 8 Ask the following questions in as many ways as possible: 1. What is your job? Where were you born? How many brothers and sisters have you got? What's the climate like in your hometown? climate What aspect of English do you find most difficult? What are typical working hours in your country? What are the main tourist attractions in your country? What is the biggest social problem in your country? What part of the city do you live in? eer ay eepy 23VI. Answer Keys: DIALOGUE ONE Interviewer : Can you tell me something about food in your country? Candidate: Well, it’s very famous. Interviewer: Why is it famous exactly? Candidate : Recause it tastes very good. Interviewer: Are there any special ingredients which make it taste good? Candidate: Yes, of course: Interviewer : Can you give me some examples? Candidate: Well, we use spices a lot. DIALOGUE TWO Interviewer: Can you tell me something about food in your country? Candidate: Ah, yes. We" re famous for our cooking. We have a lot picy food which some foreigners find too hot. but Fe essential for the flavours we like. We like meat a lot, but beans are also important in our dishes Have you ever tried any of our food? 1. They are talking about food in their country. 2. The 2nd one gives the better answer, because he/she gives a full answer without a lot of help from the interviewer Exercise 3 1. Well, first I went to primary and high school in my hometown. ‘Then I enrolled in nce. I studied software development for four years and graduated in 1992. After that T went on Fudan University in Shanghai, where I majored in computer s with postgraduate courses in my university for two years. 2. Yes, I do find American English easier to understand than British English. There are several reasons: 24of all, when I studied English in college, most of my foreign language teach- ers were from America, so I was used to the pronunciation of American English. Besid member. Finally, 1 am working for an American company. My boss and some of s, I find the vocabulary in American English easier to understand and re- my colleagues are American. 3. First of all, China is a large country with a territory of 9,600,000 square kms. Another thing you should know is that China has a long history of over 5, 00M) years: Again, China has the largest population in the world 4. I suppose Beijing Universit For one thing, it has a world-wide reputation as a comprehensive university. It has been my dream to go to Reijing University since | was a child For another, a lot of famous statesmen and scholars used to study or teach there. One more reason is that it is in the capital of China. 1 ve always wanted to have a look at the beautiful city Exercise § 1. Well, we studied quite a few subjects. But they were mainly foundation cours- 2. Well, it’s different from place to place. However, | think there are two sports that are popular in most places. . *3. Well, it really depends. I guess there are two main types of activities: indoor and outdoor on 4. There are mainly two reasons. First... Exercise 7 Speaker 1 Well, first you sit a written test and when you’ ve finished that... er. marks it the teacher ‘And then you go to one room—oh! I didn’t say, did I? —when you do your written test, you go to one room which is marked in reception—there’s a map, and you sit your written test there and you wait in that room as the teacher marks it. 25‘Then you go to another room for your oral test and you sit your oral, oh—you don’t sit it right away, you probably have to wait for a while. And then you have your oral which is five minutes. When that’s finished you move on to reception and you pay your money if you want to. Oh! When you’ ve had your oral the teacher gives you a mark and that gives you your level, so when you go to reception they know what your level is and tell you what class you’ re going to be in. Speaker 2 Okay. As you can see you’ ve got twelve pieces. Your opponent also has twelve pieces of a different colour. The object is to move all your pieces into the spaces in which your opponent's pieces are now. And your opponent will be trying to move his or her pieces into your spaces. The winner is the first person to locate all at a time or much quicker. You can jump over your own pieces or your opponent’ pieces. 1, Extract 1 described a registration procedure for new students at a school. Extract 2 described how to play a board game. 2. Extract 1 was difficult to follow because the speaker did not present the informa- tion in an organised way and had to keep going back to mention things that he/she missed. In contrast, Extract 2 was easy to follow because: + the speaker ordered information logically, starting with the object of the game. * the speaker used the construction ‘you + verb’, which is very commonly used to give instructions in English. * short sentences help to keep the message clear. 3. How to apply to go to a foreign university First, you look up the address or E-mail address of a university from a library or the internet. Then you write or send an E-mail to the school and get an application form. After that, you send it in with a copy of your school records and some let- ters of recommendation from your former teachers. The university may require you to take the TOEFL test, and for some schools, especially those in the Com- mon Wealth countries, I think you may have to take IELTS. Finally, you just wait for the letter of acceptance from the university. 26Exercise 8 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) i) What is your job? What is your occupation? What do you do? Whar do you do for a living? How do you make a living? What does your job involve? What’ s your line of business? Where were you born? What is your hometown? Where are you from? Where do you come from? Were you born in Beijing? How many brothers and sisters have you got? Do you have any brothers and sisters? ‘Are you the the only child of your family? How many people are there in your family? Tell me something about your family? What's the climate like in your hometown? Tell me something about the climate in your hometown. it very hot /oold/warm/humid/dry in your hometown’ What's the difference in climate between your hometown and Beijing? What aspect of English do you find most difficult? What are your main difficulties in learning English? Do you find it difficult to learn English? Do you find American English easier than British English? ‘What are typical working hours in your country? How many hours per week do people work in your country? Do you work five days or six days a week? ‘What are the main tourist attractions in your country? Are there any places of interest in your country /home town? ‘What places do you think a foreigner should visit in your country? ‘What places would you recommend a foreigner to Are there any historic sites in your country? in your country? n8) 9) 28 ‘Are there any natural beauties? ‘What is the biggest social problem in your country? What is the biggest social problem China faces today? What proplems is China confronted with now? What do you think are the greatest problems facing your country at present? ‘What part of the city do you live in? Do you live in the city or in the suburbs? Do you live in the downtown area or in the outskirtUNIT FOUR Phase 3: Elicitation I . Introduction: The interviewer will show you a card, which presents an imaginary situation and in- vite you to ask questions about it. Your task is to get as much information as possible about the situation that he/she is pretending to be in. So, you must show curiosity about the imaginary situation, and ask a lot of questions. This section tests your abi ty to ask questions and to find out information about objects, events, sequences, opinions, attitudes, values or how things work. Some candidates find this section difficult because they have to stop talking about real experiences and have to start “playing a game” or ‘taking a role’. It is important that you are prepared for this change of focus. You will be judged by how successfully you find out the information that the game requires. There is no need to be embarrassed by asking ‘personal question: ‘The interviewer is playing the game as well, and the answers he or she gives will not be about him/herself in real life. Be prepared to ad- just your language according to the role he/she plays. For example, if the interviewer pretends to be a fellow student, use direct questions (“Where are you going?” ) and if he/she is pretending to be someone socially superior to you, use polite indirect forms (‘Could you tell me... 2" Or ‘Would you mind telling me. ..?”). It may be helpful to think of this stage of the interview as being like the communication tasks that are part of the training in many English classrooms. The interviewer wants you to use a variety of question forms, to ask questions in a logical order, to ask sensible questions and to ask them in a natural way. Avoid starting questions with ‘How about’ too much of the time. I Requirements: The requirements for effective performance in stage 3 are that you 29* understand exactly what the situation is and what you have to find outs * take charge of the role-play and use the questions that you form to find out as much as you can about the situation and, perhaps, solve a particular problem; * ask a number of accurate and well-chosen questions from those given on a card and, if possible, ask some of your own choices. Remember : stage 3 is concerned with your ability to ask accurate questions to discow- er certain information in some detail . -Dos and Don’ ts: Vv 1. Make sure you totally understand the role you play and the situation before you begin asking any questions. 2. Divide the role-play up into three parts: (i) setting the scene ii) asking questions iii) goodbye and thank you. 3. Set up the role-play by first explain- ing who you are and what you want. 4. Ask as many questions as you can to find out everything about the situa- tion—at least 6-7 questions, if possi- ble. JV .Useful Expressions: x 1. Do not pretend you understand the situation or your role if you do not really know what to do. Just ask the examiner to tell you again. 2. Do not ask questions from the topics con the card before you have set up the role play. Try to make it sound like a natural conversation. 3. Do not simply take the topic words tions. from the cards to form ques ‘They are headings only, and will not always help you to form natural questions. 4. Do not ask personal questions of the examiner unless you are specifically required to do so. 1. A summary of some typical questions that you may need to ask about some typical topics in different cue-card situations: (Notice how most questions avoid using 30the same formal topic words from the cards. ) 1) Questions that may be asked with “Who” : @ Organiser @ Participants @ Speaker @® Chairman Who is going to hold /host/organise the party/ lecture. ..? Who will take part in/oin in the. Who will speak /give a talk at th Who will hold/host/cheir the meeting /confer- ence. ..? 2) Questions that may be asked with “What” ; @ Topic/Subject © Event @ Occupation @ Entertainment @ Memory @ Weather/Climate @ Emergency ® Fines B Accommodation ® Schedule ® Classes ® Registration (at a police station) @ Students Union ® Prize © Intention ‘What will the meeting/ecture. . . be about? What happened will happen? What do you /does he do? ‘What do the students do in their spare time? What is your first/best childhood memory? What do you remember most deeply about. What is the weather climate like in. ..? What should I do in emergency situations? What are the penalties/fines for overdue books? ‘What kind of accommodations are there? What's the schedule like? What kinds‘of courses are available? What documents do I have to take with me? What are the benefits of joining the Students U- ion? What did you win? What are you going to do? 3) Questions that may be asked with “Where” ; ' ® Accommodation @ Place @ Tickets @ Place of submission @ Restaurants/post office/ Where can I find a shared room/cheap house? Where is it going to be held? Where can I get the tickets? Where do we hand it in? Where is the nearest/cheapest. . .? 31supermarkets/theatre. . . @® Prescriptions @ Library(Books) @ Information ® Address Where do I get the medicine? Where are/can I find books on (subject)? Where are the computers? Where can I get information on travelling /insur- ance/English classes. ..? Where do you live? 4) Questions that may be asked with “When /What time” : @ Time ® Schedule @ Submission date ® Opening hours @ Transport @ Registration ® Departure/Arrival time ® Available time When is it going to be held? What time will the party begin finish? When is the deadline? When do we have to hand it in? When is the library restaurant/park /post office. . .open? What time are the first/last buses? When do I have to register? (for a conference/with a doctor) What time does the flight/train leave/arrive? ) When is convenient for you? When are you free? (of your tutor/professor. .. 5) Questions that may be asked with “Which” : @ Best choice @ Preference Which is the best theatre in town? which is the cheapest restaurant around here? Which one do you prefer? 6) Questions that may be asked with “How” : 32 @ Transportation/Direction ® Membership How can I get to (place)? How do I become a member(of Ss Union/ club. ..? @ Finding books in a Library How do I go about finding books? ® Health care How can I find the books I need? How do I get health care? How do I get dental treatment?7) Questions that may be asked with “How many /much” + ® Education @ Participants @TV ® Accommodation @ Membership ® Entrance of park 8) Questions that may be asked with “ How often” @ Frequency @ Students Union @ Hobbies/Interests @ Tests/Meetings How many "A" levels did you get? How many people /students do you think will take part in the party? How many channels are available? How much is the rent? How much is the deposit? How much is it to join the club/society. How much is it to get in the park? How often do trains leave for London? How often are the elections held? How often do you go swimming? How often are we going to be tested? 9) Questions that may be asked with “How long”: ® Duration of (meeting/game How long will it last/take? flight /partyAecture/test ) @ Transportation © Library @® Writing Assignment How long does it take to get to the airport by taxi? How long can I keep the book? How long does it have to be? 10) Questions that may be asked with “How far” : @ Accommodation ® Station/Airport 11) Other Questions ® Feeling( about climate/food/ How far is it from the city centre/college? How far it from downtown/the college? How do you like/what do you think book/invitation/present/news...) about. ..? ® Partner @ Attendance compulsory ® House facilities ® Sharing Can I/Is it OK to bring a friend along? Can I bring someone with me? Do I have to go? Must I go? Is there a washing machine/garden. . .? Would it be possible to share the place 33,with a friend? ® Food Will I be able to find Chinese foodstuffs to cook with? © Discounts Can students get some kind of conces- sions? Can | get reduced price travel? 2.SUGGESTED QUESTIONS AND PHRASES FOR PHASE 3 LIBRARY CARD You want to join a local | library and need to find | €)) car for a few days to ‘out how to obtain a 0 sightseeing around brary card. the city, | RENT-A-CAR You want to rent a You need to find out as much as possible about a Student Meeting to | be held at your univer- a)| b) ) ROLE-PLAY SETUP Questions ean 1 Excuse me, 1 wes wondering if you could Delp me? Are you the (esuminer"s re)? be kd ble " Meee | Can yelp me? fd thoy have ay nfomatem shun? ; > you hve my nkratin abo...” | ‘qvestioning_ be ve jt Cenrolled at university) and Uhave 1 bve time to anew a few cations? bs fe N _Pesoe ine time ams stn! | pao re a ne time the student meet ee esx dus sights (for at the stad allowed to borrow books: dare vchice. oat ine | _ estas tere two ques: — om ) ASKING QUESTIONS _t Wh / How 4) What time does the — b) Which form do I have to ©) How much does it cost ‘qestionss ‘meeting start and fin: fill out to get @ library per day to rent a car? me oi? Qustins ) Suu | wow wwiing 6) Gn I gu ay Wil wae wens | si ml x rete meng? Wray cad iT hse doa fT sh vob ‘howe? St cad? & ve " 4) Oh, good. Icen goto the —b) I have to pay extra if 1 ¢) That’ s not too bad. I om Me in mecting after moming Jose the card? Oh well, ‘thought @ station wagon pe two or lass. ‘never mind. ‘would cost a bot more. tree oe —_ _ ore MSome of the cqestons 4) Do you happen to know —b) Have you any iden whether c) Can you give me a rough mn indicote whet the meeting is cam we this card at other iden of how much the that yo shout? rae in town? pour will ast for six might not days? be expecting - tohenea bt V . Exercises: Exercise 1 Rate the following sentences as good or bad gambits to open a conversation with a foreigner. 1) I would like to practise my English. Can I talk with you? 2) Excuse me, are you a new student here? 3) Excuse me, do you speak English? 4) Excuse me, I’m new here. I don’t know my way around. Is there anywhere where people get together? 5) Hello. My name’s David. 1’ m looking for new friends. 6) It’s getting a bit warmer now, isn’t it? Are you planning to go to the Taiji classes? 7) Hello. Do you want somebody to practise Chinese with? 8) What’s your name? 9) Can I ask you a few questions? 10) My name is Matt. What's yours? 11) Hello. T haven’t really met you yet. My name's... 12) Hello. Do you mind if I sit here? 13) What are your plans for going to Britain? 14) What's your impression of the courses so far? 15) Excuse me. Haven’ t we met somewhere before? 16) I'd like to help you with your Chinese. Can you help me with my English? 17) It’s a lovely dog, isn’t it? (to a lady with a dog) 18) Hello. Is your bike broken? (to somebody repairing his bike) 35Exercise 2 How many questions can you ask about any particular topic in 60 seconds? Record yourself doing the following task on cassette and then check how many questions you asked and how many mistakes you made. Do this exercise everyday and make a chart or graph to track your progress. Exercise 3 ‘Transform the statements in the following passage into questions: ‘The Minister for Sport and Recreation, Mr. John Bottomly, announced yesterday that the government would provide five million dollars to fund a building program of sports centres in rural areas throughout the eastern part of the state of Victoria. The Minister went on to say that people living in country areas had been seriously disad- vantaged in the past and this program would provide more equality. Choose any passage in English and transform the statements into questions. Exercise 4 You may have to ask your examiner questions in your speaking test as well as answer him/ her. ‘There are several different types of questions in English. Look at the list of questions below and divide them into two groups. 1) Do you live in Malaysia? 2) Could you tell me where the station is? 3) Where is the doctor’ s? 4) How much does membership cost? 5) Would you mind telling me where you live? 6) Can [ask you what your name is? 7) What's the time? 8) Can you tell me who the manager is? 9) Who did you see yesterday? Group A Group B 36Which group contains direct questions? Which indirect? What are the differences in function and structure between them? Exercise § Look at the two dialogues below. Which do you prefer? Why? Dialogue One Dialogue Two A: Good morning. Would you A: Good morning. Would you mind mind telling me your name? telling me your name? B; Robert Murray. B: Robert Murray. A: Thank you. And could you tell A: Thank you. When were you born? me when you were born? B: 21 June, 1958. : 21 June, 1958. A: Right. Can I ask you what A: Right. And what's your address? your address is? w Exercise 6 Rewrite the following dialogue. There are both grammar mistakes and inappropriate question types. Shop assistant: Good morning. Customer: Good morning. I wonder if can you help me? I’m looking for a pair of shoes. Shop assistant: Certainly. Can you tell me what style you would like? Customer: Yes. 1 want a flat pair that is comfortable for walking. Shop assistant: OK. Can you tell me what size you take? Customer: Six. Shop assistant: Right. Would you mind telling me what colour you prefer? Customer: Light brown, I think. 7Shop assistant You like this pair? Exercise 7 [0 0 Practise a dialogue between a bank manager and a customer. The bank manager wants to find out the following things about the customer: full name address date of birth marital status job salary why the customer wants a loan Remember to vary your question types! Look at the following exchanges, which are drawn from interactions over a short pe- riod of time. Indicate the free information and ask a follow-up question: 1) Az You certainly dance well. Have you had many lessons? B: No. This is my first lesson here, but I used to go out dancing every night when [ was living in Scotland. 2) As Hi Bob, I haven't seen you for ages. B: Yeah, well, my son’ been sick, so I’ ve had to spend more time at home. 3) A; I'm glad to know I’m not the only one who gets most of his news from looking through papers at news stands. B: I’m too busy with my bank work to read much these days. 4) A: Hi. Is Peter around? B; No, he’s out buying a birthday cake. 5) A: When is the bus due? B; It was supposed to be here fifteen minutes ago. It’s usually pretty much on time. 38‘VI. Answer Keys: Exercise 1) bad 2) good 3) good 4) good 5) bad 6) good 7) bad 8) bad 9) bad 10) bad 11) good 12) good 13) bad 14) bad 15) good 16) bad 17) good 18) good Exercise 3 1) Who is Mr. John Bottomly? 2) Who is the Minister for sport? 3) What did the } 4) How much money will the government provide? 5) What will the money be used for? 6) Where will the sports centres be built? 7) Which part of the state will the centres be built in? 8) Why has the government decided to fund the building program? ister announce yesterday? Exercise 4 Group A 1)_3) 4) 7) 9) GroupB _2) 5) 6) 8) We use indirect questions when difficulty is involved, we don’t know the person we’ re talking to, we need to be polite, or we’ re asking for something major. Indirect questions use a phrase or expression followed by word order like a statement, NOT like a question: Could/can you tell me Would you mind telling me what his name is? Can I ask you T wonder if you could tell me (NOT what is his name? )In most direct questions, an auxiliary verb comes before the subjects ‘no auxiliary verb we use do/does/did. Where do you live? Example: Wy as he left? Exercise 5 was used to establish po- liteness, then ‘A’ used direct questions. In fact, when we ask a series of questions ‘The second dialogue is better: initially an indirect questic we shorten questions more and more. For example: What about your job? And your work experience? When a lot of questions are asked, using varied question types is more natural than re- peating one type again and again. Exercise 6 Shop assistant: Good morning. Customer: Good morning. I wonder if you can help me. I'm looking for a pair of shoes. Shop assistant Certainly. Can you tell me what style you would like? Customer: Yes. [ want a flat pair that is comfortable for walking. Shop assistarit: OK. What size do you take? Customer: Six. Shop assistant: Right. And the colour? Customer: ight brown, I think. ‘Shop assistant: i Exercise 7 Bank manager: Good morning. Can I help you? Customer: Yes, please. I'd like to ask for a loan. 40Bank manager: Certainly. We’ Il have to fill out some form. May I have your full name, please? Customer: David Brown. Bank manager: Thank you, Mr. Brown. And what"s your ad- dress? Customer: No. 28, Main Street. Bank manager: Right. When were you born? Customer: 21" May, 1958. Bank manager: OK. Are you married? Customer: Yes, 1am, Bank manager: And your occupation, please? Customer: Yes, I'ma lawyer. Bank manager: Fine. Now could you tell me what your annual income is Mr. Brown? Customer: $60,000. Bank manager: Good. So why do you want a loan? Exercise 8 1) A; Scotland! When was that? What's it like there? 2) A: Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. What's wrong with him? /Is it serious? 3) A: What do you do exactly at the bank? 4) A: Oh, who's birthday is it? 5) A: What happened today? VI.Cue Cards for Role Play: 1. Lecture A guest speaker from a neighbouring university is going to give a lecture. You are interested in the lecture and want some further information. ‘Who the speaker is Subject of the lecture Length Time and place Who are expected to come Attendance 2. Studying at the University 41You would like to enrol in a university as an undergraduate student. Talk to the student Admission Officer to find out the course details. Pre-requisites Length of study Hours per week of study Commencement date Cost per year 3. Emergency Notice on Class Change For some reason, there are some class changes for the next week. You are in this, class and would like to know the details of the change. Your interviewer is the de- partment secretary. What change/detailed changes involved (time/place) Reasons for the change Inconvenience caused to you Re-schedule Need to tall to the professor 4. Film You are interested in a new film. But you don’t know much about it. So you ask your examiner about it. Find out about: Title of the film Content Reason for its era AL ® Time and place for the next show Price for the ticket 5. Photography Cones You are interested in a photography contest announced on a notice board. Your in- terviewer is also reading it. Ask him about: Subject ‘Time of the contest Works required for the contest Deadline for submission Prize 6. Reading Club You want some information about a reading club. Your interviewer is one of its members. Membership Club activities (reading /seminars/discussion /recreation) Meeting place and time Frequency of meeting Cost 7. Weekend Camp for New Students You are interested in finding out some information about a weekend camp. Your interviewer is one of the organizers. 42Purpose of the camp Where it is being held Arrangement for getting there and back ‘Accommodation Cost 8. Sports Prize Your interviewer has just won a prize. You want to know about prize. Sport Kind of prize Training practice Fecling about winning Plans for the future 9. Joining the Environment Pressure Group . Your interviewer is a member of Globewatch. Ask him about: Member of membership Joining procedure Membership cost Frequency of meetings Location of meetings: 10. Hospital Rules Imagine you are a patient entering a hospital. Speak to the nurse and find out about the hospital. Meal times TV...) Smoking ‘Things to bring with you Times of getting up/¢ Velephone call Entertainment (book, 11, Moving House Your Prof. is moving to Boston from Montreal. Talk to him and find out about: Reasons for moving Packing Assistance ‘Transportation Poss lity of paying his family a visit later on 12. Bus Pass You've won a bus pass in TV quiz show. You" ve come for the prize. Your inter- viewer is the organizer of the quiz program. Kind of prize What for Days of the bus-pass Date of expiry Possibility of someone else using it 13. A Membership Card You’ ve been advised to apply for a membership card at a local food market. Your 43interviewer works at the market. Benefits of the end How to use it Procedure for joining When the card is ready Date of expiry 14. Eating at Restaurants ‘You would like to enjoy your weekend at a Chinese restaurant. There are two restaurants in the local area. Ask for information to decide which restaurant you would prefer. Kind and names of restaurants Location Foods and services Difference in price Tips 15. Holidays on Campus You are a new international student on campus and would like to know how in- ternational students spend their holidays. Your interviewer is.your fellow stu- dent Kinds of holidays Christmas School activi Celebration and food Staying with families 16. Holiday on a Farm Your professor will spend his summer break with his family on their farm. You are invited to spend a few days with them. Location Number of people invited Length of stay Expected activities ‘Need to buy any presents 17. Lunch at a Fast-food Restaurant It is lunch time now. You and your classmate are in a fast-food restaurant. Ask the person who is serving you at the food counter about: Foods being served Soft drinks Prices 18. Waiting at the Bus Station You are waiting in a bus station for a long-distance bus, and need some help. Ask the woman/man sitting next to you about:19, 20. 22. 23. ‘Timetable Ticket Arrival at your destination Problems at the Library You have received a notice from the university library saying that you have lost a book. But you know that you have already returned it. Now you are in the li- brary, trying to get the matter settled. Ask the librarian about the notice and the book: Notice Book (the day you borrowed it and the day you returned it) Complain about service Broken Laptop Computer Ten days a ago, you bought a laptop computer in a computer store not far from the university where you are studying. And it broke down this morning. Now you are in the store, trying to change it for a new one. Complain about the inconvenience Want to change it for a new one Complain about the quality of the laptop + The Cheapest Way You are going to be studying at a British college. You meet a student who studies in the same city as you hope to go to. Find out about the cheapest way to live there. Accommodation Food Entertainment Transportation Books Discounts for students Shopping ‘The Survey ‘As part of your course at your college in the UK, you have to do a survey of British people. Your examiner is one of the people you are interviewing. Occupation Family members Edueation Personal interests/Hobbies The Party You have just arrived at your college in Britain and you hear about a party to wel- come new students. You would like to go. So you go to the Overseas Students 45Office to get some more details. Your interviewer works there. Organiser Cost Activities ‘Time Partner ‘Transportation Place 24. The Newspaper Article You are going to write an article for the Student’ s Union newspaper about your tutor. Ask him/her some questions. Your interviewer is your tutor. Eamily Childhood memories School Friends (still in touch?) 25. The Reception You have just arrived at your college in Britain. You hear that there will be a re- ception for new students to which you would like to go, so you go to the dean's secretary to find out more. Held by (host) Activities ‘Tickets Time and place Food & drink Attendance Compulsory? Participants Dress Anything else 26. The Writing Assignment You were absent from your writing class yesterday in which the students were given an assignment. Your interviewer is one of your classmates. Ask him/her about the assignment. Topie/Content Presentation Submission date Length Title page Place of submission 27. Entertainment in London You have just arrived at your college in London and want to find out about the capital’ s entertainment. Your interviewer is a British student. Ask him/her about it. Cinema Pubs Sports Theatre Restaurants Vv 4628. Health Care You are a new student at a British College. You go to the Welfare Office to find ‘out about health care provision in the UK. Your interviewer is a welfare officer there. Health care facilities Medical Insurance Publie/private health care Emergencies Registration (doctor) Prescriptions/medicine 29. The Library You are a new student at a British college. You go to the college library to find out about it’s facilities. Your interviewer is a librarian who works there. How to join Finding books Special facilities Borrowing books Layout Opening hours Fines 30. The Meeting You have been notified of an urgent meeting of the Students’ Union, so you go to the Students” Union Office to find out more details. Your interviewer sec- retary there. Subject of meeting Time & place Attendance Compuboory? Participants Length of meeting Anything else Chairperson 31. The Local Town You have been in Britain for a few days when you meet a second-year student. Ask him/her about the local town. ‘Accommodation Sports Books Transport Food Discounts for students Entertainment ‘Shopping 32. Accommodation You have just arrived in the UK and are staying in temporary accommodation, but you need to find something more permanent, so you go to the university ac- commodation office to find out what’s available. Your interviewer works there. 47‘Types of accommodation Rent Possibility of sharing Location Facilities Notice Period Distance from college Kitchen /Bathroom Possible to view? “Transportation ‘Telephone 33. The Conference You have been informed of a conference that will take place next month. Go to the conference organiser’ s office to find out more details. Your interviewer works there. Topic When & where Socia Speakers How to get there Registration Schedule Accommodation activities 34. College Information Office (1) You have been at your college in Britain for a few days when you go to the infor- mation office with a few questions about the college. Your interviewer works there. Student Welfare Office Health care English language classes Student counsellors/tutors Insurance ‘Travel information 35. College Information Office (2) On arrival at the university, your instructions are to proceed to the University Information Office. Your interviewer is the information officer on duty. Location of your accommodation Joining the Students” Union (booked in advance) English language test Location of dining halls Location of your department Registration with the police 36. University Information You have been at your university for a few days when you are introduced to a second-year student. Find out a bit about the university. Students’ Union Sports facilities Travel Union Societies/Clubs Campus entertainment37. The Bank Holiday A Bank Holiday is coming up and you would like to go somewhere for the week- end, so you go to the local tourist information office to find out what’ s available. What's available How to get there Locati Opening times Entrance fees Anything else 38. The Competition (1) Your interviewer has won a competition. Ask him/her about the prize. Kind of competition Interviewer’ s feeling Prize Interviewer’ s intention 39. The Competition (2) Your colleague in the UK has won second prize in a competition. Ask him/hér about it. The interviewer is your colleague. ‘Second prize Kind of competition When/How long for First prize Organiser Travel arrangements 40. Tutor’ s Accommodation At your college in the UK, you have to work on a project with your tutor, so you arrange a time to meet at his/her place. When he/she’ s available Where he/she lives Kind of accommodation Facilities Interviewer’ s feeling about accommodation WH.Possible Questions and Answers for Some Situations: 1. The Lecture 1) Who the speaker is Candidate: Excuse me, I’ m interested in this lecture I’ ve been hearing about. The guest speaker is from a near-by university. Do you know his name? Interviewer: Yes, his name is Donovan Leitch. He is a professor of linguistics at 49the University of London. 2) Subject of lecture C. Oh, I’ve never heard of him before. What will he be speaking about? [He will be discussing speech impediments. People who stammer and the ways in which they might be helped. C- ['m sorry, I am not familiar with the term “stammer” IA stammer is someone who, when they talk, cannot complete their sentence or thought because they get stuck on one word and repeat it over and over a- gain. 3) Length Oh, now [understand what you mean. That sounds interesting. Do you know how long the lecture will run’? I It’s scheduled for 2 hours. Though, if enough people are interested there might be an informal question and answer meeting afterwards. 4) Time and place C-At least 2 hours, OK. Do you know when and where it will be held? I. It’s going to be at the Stevenson Center at 6pm next Monday. C. The Stevenson Center, where is that? 1 It’s on the north side of campus, near the dinning hall. 5) Who are expected to come C- That big grey building, I know where it is. By the way, who else is expected to attend? I The dean of the humanities department will be hosting the lecture. He and Mr. Leitch are old friends. 6) Attendance C- Sounds important. Is attendance required? Do I have to go to the question and answer part if I attend the lecture? 1 Hf you are a linguis major then you must attend the entire lecture. Other- wise attendance is not mandatory and you can leave whenever you like. [think I might try to go. Thanks so much for your time. I No problem. 2. Studying at the University 1) Prerequisites C- Good morning, I am a student interested in attending this university. Could 50you please explain the prerequisites for admission? T- All entering freshmen need t6 have a graduated highschool with a 3.0 grade point average. All transferring students need the transcripts of their former colleges and also have a 3.0 GPA. 2) Length of study CC. Oh, if Tam accepted, about how long do I need to study for an undergradu- ate degree? I Most majors can be completed in 4 years, all transfer students must spend a minimum of 2 years before receiving a degree. 3) Hours per week of study CT may have to work after class, how many hours will I need a week for class time and studying? I You will need 20 hours for class time and another 20 hours for studying. 4) Commencement date C- This sounds perfect, When is the first day of the new term? 1 The Autumn term begins on September 1", the Spring term begins on march r 5) Cost per sear Tam very excited about attending this university, but is it very expensive? Each term is 1,000 pounds, that’s not including room and board or books. C. That is in my budget, could you give me an application to take home? 1 Here you go, have a good day. C. Bye. 3. Emergency Notice on Class Change 1) What change /detailed changes involved (time/place) C- Excuse me. I am enrolled to take Professor Lee’s Biology 102 class, but I heard some changes were made. Can you tell me anything about this? I. Yes, there have been some changes made. The class has been moved to the Science Building room 214. Also, instead of being held on Monday, Wends- day and Friday from 2—3 pm the class is now on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2-4 pm. C- What changes! Mr. Lee will still be teaching the class, right? IL Yes, he will. 2) Reasons for the change 51CC. Why did they make so many changes? I. The professor had scheduling conflicts and had to change the time. The room was moved because he wanted a classroom with a video screen. 3) Inconvenience caused to you C- Well that means he’ Il probably be showing lots of videos then. Though, my problem is that I work every Thursday, all afternoon! 4) Re-schedule T- Perhaps your boss will let you switch your workdays with another employee, or maybe you can take a different biology class. CC. My boss is not that kind and I need this particular class to graduate. A differ- ent class won't help me. 5) Need to talk to a professor I. If the situation is that desperate then I suggest you speck to Mr. Lee him- self. Maybe another student can take notes for you on the days you cannot attend class. C- Having someone take notes for me is a good idea, but I'd hate to miss so many classes. Do you know Mr. Lee's phone number? I Yes, his number is 5555 ~ 8484. Where is his office? I Building H, room 316. C I'll go there now. Thanks, you’ ve been really helpful. I Anytime. I hope everything works out for you. 4. Film 1) Title of the film CT keep hearing about this new film that is number one at the box office this week. Do you know what the film is called? I Yeah, you're talking about the new Pokemon film from Japan. 2) Content C- Oh you've heard of it, what's it about anyway? I. It is a cartoon about little monsters called Pokemon. Their human owners catch them and train them to fight. Some Pokemon are good and others are bad. 3) Reason for its craze C- That sounds weird, why is Pokemon so popular? 52.I. Well, mainly children go to see this film. They also sell Pokemon toys and games. 4) Time and place for the next show CC. My little sister will probably like it Do you know when the next showing is? I. _ If you go to the Rio Theatre they only show Pokemon all day long, I think the next show is at 2:00 pm. 5) Price for the ticket C OK, I'd better hurry then, by the way, how much does it cost? I _Before 3pm at the Rio all tickets are £3.00, after 3pm children are £4.00 and adults are £6.00 a ticket. C- Thanks for the information, see you. I See you later. 5. Photography Contest 1) Subject Hil I don’t want to disturb you but I saw you looking at that announcement over there about the photography contest. The bottom of the paper with all the information is torn off. You wouldn’ t happen to have heard anything about it? T- Actually, I’m one of the organizers of the contest. What did you want to know? Wow! It is lucky I ran into you then. What subjects should the photographs center around? [All the photographs should be about family. Family? My family? 1 That is for you to decide. Whoever best and most creatively explores the sub- ject of family will win. 2) Time of the contest C- That's challenging. When is the contest? I. Two weeks from Thursday, on the 25". C. Where will the photographs be exhibited? I At the community center on 5" Street. 3) Works required for the contest C- Not far from my home, good. What are the requirements for the submis- sions? 531- You must enter $, 8X 10 photographs. C- Black and white or colour photographs? I. Whichever you prefer. 4) Deadline for submission C- When must 1 submit them by? 1 They must be turned in by the 23! 5) Prize C. Thave to ask, will there be a prize for the winner? 1. Of course. First place receives 500 pounds and a new camera. Second place wins 50 rolls of film. Third place gets a life time supply of SPAM. (SPAM? What does that have to do with photography? Very strange. By the way, who will be judging the contest? [George Owens, the famous photographer, the president of the SPAM Cor- peration and myself. (Well, 1 guess that’s all I need to know. Thank you. [Don't mention it. [ hope to see you there. 6. Reading Club 1) Membership (Hello! If you are not too busy could you please tell me a little something about the reading club here’? 1 Yes, what would you like to know? C Well, how do I join? I _ All. you have to do is give us your name and phone number and start coming to the meetings. It is that simple. 2) Club activities C- That is easy. What sort of things does the club do? 1 In addition to the regular discussion meetings, there are occasional readings by famous authors held here in the store. There are also discussion groups held outside the store with members from other book clubs around the city, as well as short day trips. C- What sort of day trips? I. In the past there have been vi museums. To get more information you should attend the next meeting. 3) Meeting time and place to famous writers’ homes and to various 34C- When is the next meeting? I. On Tuesday, two days from now. 4) Frequency of meetings CAre meetings held every Tuesday? L Yes. C- At what time? 1 They start at 6pm. When do they end? 1 Usually around 9, but sometimes they are a bit shorter or longer. It depends on the level of interest of the group. 5) Cost C. Sounds good. It would be even better if it was free. How much does mem- bership cost by the way’? I You will be happy to know that itis free. You do not even have to buy your books at this store. (C-That is very generous of you. Who pays for the extra activities? I Well, that you have to pay for yourself. Sorry. C-That is all right. Thanks for your help. I guess 1 will be seeing you. I Good bye. 7. Weekend Camp for New Students 1) The purpose of the camp (CHi. T have just started school here and was wondering about the weekend camp for new students. Céuld Task you, what the aim of the trip is? 1. The main purpose of the camp is for new students to become familiar with each other so that they will feel a bit more comfortable. It is a way to make some friends, meet some teachers and learn about the resources available here on campus. Can foreign students join too? I All are welcome. 2) Where is it being held C That is good because I am an exchange student here. Where is the camp be- ing held? 1 About 50 kilometers away from here up the coast. I think at a campsite right ‘on the beach.3) Arrangements for getting there and back C- How fun! However, I do not have a car. How will I get there? 1 There will be @ bus that will take all the students there and back. C- When does the bus leave? I It leaves at 8 am Friday morning and returns 8 pm the following Sunday. 4) Accommodation C8 am! That is a bit early! I need my rest. Speaking of which, if we are stay- ing at beach, where will we sleep? [Everyone will be sleeping in tents. C- Sounds uncomfortable. What about food? 1. Three meals a day will be provided 5) Case C- So how much does the entire trip cost? 1-30 pounds. C- 30 pounds! That is expensive for sleeping on the ground and family style meals. 1. Well, the buses cost a lot to rent. CL will have to think about it. Thanks anyway. I. No problem. 8. Sports Price 1) Sport C Hey, I just heard that you won some sporting event. You play so many sports, which one did you win in? I-Ie was the 25 meter sprint. C- No kidding, I did not know that you were a runner. What place did you come in? TL came in second. 2) Kind of prize C- Second place! Not bad, what did you win? L Twon a silver medal. 3) Training practice C You won a medal? How neat! That is something that you can save as a me- mento. As I said, I did not know that you were a runner. How long have you been training for? 561. Actually, I have only been in training for a year. 4) Feelings about winning C Only a year? That is not very long. Are you surprised you won? I. Yes, Iam surprised. Some of the people I raced against have been training for much longer. I can not believe I best some of them. 5) Plans for the future You must be a natural born runner then. Do you think that you will keep 2 Do you have plans to compete in any other races? J.T think I might try to compete in a couple of more short races, but what I re- ally want to do is train to run Marathons. | would like to be able to run 3-5 kilometers in one race. C-3-5 kilometers in one race? I am beginning to feel very lazy compared to you. I. Maybe we can work out together sometime? C. Thank you. Give me a call sometime, OK? 1 Will do. See you around. 9. Joining an Environmental Pressure Group 1) Number of membership C- Hello, I wanted to ask you about something. I just overheard you talking to your friend and you said that you are a member of Globewatch. Can you tell me something about the organization? 1 What do you want to know? C How many people are involved with Globewatch? J. We have over 15 million members in 30 countries worldwide. C How many are in the local chapter? 1 There are actually two local chapters. Our group has about 100 members. 2) Joining procedures C- Tam thinking about joining your group. What do I have to do to join? I. First, you should talk to John Smith, he is the president. He will give you a membership card and tell you a little bit more about the Globewatch organiza- tion. C- How can I get in touch with him? I- By phone is the best. If he is not there leave a message. His number is 3555- 2323. 3) Membership cost 7C. $555-2323, got it. How much is membership? [It depends on how much you are willing to contribute. 15 pounds, paid year- ly, is the minimum fee. 4) Frequency of meetings C- That is a reasonable fee. How often are meetings held? 1 There is a meeting every other weekend, though often we have emergency meetings. We never know when one of those is going to come up. C- Are there emergency meetings often? I No, not usually, but sometimes, like last month, we had quite a few. You never can tell. 5) Location of meetings C- Where do the meetings take place? I The location changes because meetings are always held at our members’ , then you should take the bus. C- Naturally, those are the most environmentally friendly options. 1 They are also quite convenient. 10. Hospital Rules 1) Things to bring with you Excuse me, Nurse, I will be checking into the hospital tomorrow. What sort of supplies do you think I should bring? 1. Well how long will you be staying? C- Probably 3 days. I am having minor surgery. IT would suggest that you bring two changes of clothes and whatever toiletries that you may need. 2) Times of getting up and going to bed C.OK, and what time will I be expected to wake up and go to sleep? [That is entirely your decision. Except on the day of your surgery of course Then you will have to be awake and prepared in time for the operation. 3) Meal times C- That is nice, not having to be woken up on someone else's schedule. What time are meals served? {Breakfast is served between 7 and 9 am. Lunch is given between 11 and 1 pm. Dinner is served between 5 and 7 pm. C Do I have a choice in what I am given to eat? I am a vegetarian. 38L-_ Special dietary considerations can be made. Just tell the head nurse when you check in. 4) Telephone calls C- What about using the telephone? Can I make and receive calls? I Every room has a private phone. Alll calls you make will be charged to your room's bill. You can receive calls as well. 5) Entertainment (books, TV...) C- Good, and what about entertainment? Since Iam going to be here for three days I will have a lot of free time. Is there anything special to do? I There really is not much to do here, since this is a hospital. Every room has a TV complete with cable, though. I suggest you bring books, magazines or a deck of cards. Whatever you enjoy doing to pass the time. 6) Smoking C. Actually, I love to smoke. Is smoking allowed in the hospital? [Noy never. Sorry. C- Very unfortunate. Thank you for your time. 11. Moving House 1) Reasons for moving C- Professor! I have heard that you are moving to Montreal, is this true? Yes, I'm very excited! C- But why? Everyone at Boston University really likes you. I. Well | like you all too, but my mother is ill and I plan to teach in Montreal so that I can keep an eyé on her. 2) Packing C- Oh, I''m sorry to hear your mother is not well. Have you already started packing yet? T- No T haven't found the time to pack. 1 plan to call a few moving companies today to ask for prices. 3) Assistance Cc M I That is very nice of you, I may just ask you for help if I need it. C- Of course, call me any time. My number is 555 ~ 3342. 4) Transportation C._ By the way, how do you plan to move your things? By truck or by train? takes a lot of time. I would be happy to help in any way possible. 391. Why do you ask? C- My brother works for a train company, he says it is sometimes cheaper to ship by rail. I Really, I didn’t know that. 5) Possibility of returning to Boston CI know everyone is very disappointed you must leave. Is there any chance you will return to Boston? I. T hope to come back when my mom is well. I will miss Boston a lot. Good luck, and once again call me if you need my assistance. LI will, see you in class. 12. Bus Pass 1) Kind of prize C- Now that I have won first place in your quiz contest, I would like to ask what my prize is. I. The prize you’ ve won is a bus pass. 2) What for How useful, a bus pass! Is it for long distance trips or just for use within this city? I The pass is for within the city only. 3) Days of the bus pass On what days can I use the pass? I- It can be used everyday of the week, Monday through Sunday. C Can 1 use the pass at night or just during the day? 1. The pass can be used twenty four hours a day. 4) Date of Expiration Do you know when the pass expires? 1 The pass is good for one year. C- Can I use it as much as I like in the year? I. Yes. You have unlimited usage. 5) Possibility of someone else using it C- Can other people use this pass, or just me? T- Only you can use it because your picture is put on the front of the card. Speaking of which, later you will have to go down to the bus pass office and have your picture taken.What if I lose the pass? I Report it immediately to the bus pass office and they will give you a new pass. C Thanks. I think I'll go to the office right now. 13. A Membership Card 1) Benefits of the card C. Excuse me, could you give me some information about your store’ s member- ship card? What are the benefits? I The main benefit of having our store’s card is every time you shop here we give you five percent off your total purchase. Also, sometimes we have spe- cial discounts that are given only to cardholders. What sort of special discounts? I Sometimes, we have “buy one get one free” promotions, 25% off specials and contests where you can win free groceries. 2) How to use it CC. That seems like I could save quite a bit of money. How do I use the card? I. It’s very simple. When you are ready to pay, show the cashier your card, and you will be given your discount after the total has been calculated. 3) Procedure for joining C- That is convenient! How do I join? I. _Alll you have to do is to go to the back of the store to the booth with the “Membership” sign above it. They will give you a short form and take your picture. 4) When the card is ready When will the card be ready? I- Tt will be ready within ‘half an hour. Probably by the time you have done shopping. C- Does it cost anything to join? I Yes, 25 dollars a year. However, you will save more than that in the first couple of months. 5) Date of Expiration C. In fact, I shop here so often I will probably save more than 25 dollars in a week! How long is the card good for, anyway? I The card is good for one year. 61Cc c Can other people in my family use it? Yes, as long as they have the same last-name as you. ‘That’ s excellent! I often send my children to do the shopping for me. Thank you for the information. You said the membership booth is at the back of the store, right? Correct. 14. Eating at Restaurants 1) Kind and names of restaurants oe L Cc L Excuse me sir, I’m not from around here but I really want to eat some Chi- nese food. Do you know of any restaurants in the area? Why yes, there are two I can think of. Really? What are they called? Well there is the Whole Duck Restaurant and Golden City Chinese Food. 2) Location c L Is that so? Do you know where they are? Sure thing! The Whole Duck is on Jameson Street past the trolley station. Golden City is right next to the university on Guy Hawkes Boulevard. 3) Foods and services Cc L Cc L Cc L Have you eaten at both restaurants? Yes, I have. What kind of food do they serve? I really like northern Chinese food. Well the Whole Duck specializes in roast duck, but they also have seafood. The Golden City is a family style restaurant and very authentic, I think they are from Beijing. What about karaoke? I really like to sing after a big meal. Only the Whole Duck has karaoke. 4) Difference in price oe IL Cc I can't spend too much money, which restaurant is less expensive? You could spend up to 20 pounds at the Whole Duck. Golden City is much cheaper. Oh, well, so much for karaoke. 5) Tips Cc L 62 Could you tell me if these restaurants have a service charge? Almost every restaurant expects you to leave a tip around here.C. Gosh, how much should I pay? I- Polite people leave at least a 15% tip. Thank you so much for your advice. I I'm happy to help. 15. Holidays on Campus 1) Kinds of holidays Hello. Are you a student here? L Yes, 1 am, Good. I was wondering something about the school holiday schedule. [What do you want to know? How many holidays are there during the school year? I There are two major holiday breaks, winter and spring. Both are about one month long. There are also shorter ones, two and three days holidays. 2) Christmas C- What about Christmas? [The Christmas holiday is during the winter break. 3) School activities Oh! The reason I am asking is because I do not think I will be going home for the holidays and I was wondering what there is to do here on campus when classes are not in session. I- Well, there really isn’ t much to do since almost all of the students and teach- ers leave for the break. 4) Celebration and food C- Do you mean that the school does not provide any recreational activities for students who are staying? Do they ever throw holiday parties?’ What about meals? I. They don’t do anything special, unless you live in the dormitories. CI do live in the dorms. I Well then the dinning halls will be open during their normal hours. You can still eat there. During Christmas the students that remain living in the dorms usually have parties and exchange gifts. However, the students themselves onganize those parties. 5) Staying with families C.That sounds nice, but what about spending the holidays with local families? 1 63am an exchange student and I would like to see first hand how British fami- lies celebrate the holidays. I You can do that too. Just let your director know that you'd like to spend some time with @ local family and he can help you get in touch with one. People are often very generous with their time around the holidays. C- Thanks. You’ ve been a great help. [Tt was nothing 16. Holiday on a Farm 1) Location C- Thanks again for inviting me to stay on your family’s farm, professor. ‘Where exactly do they live? I fotgot the first time you told me. T- Cornwall England, my family has farmed there for 700 years. 2) Number of people invited C- This is so exciting! Will there be anyone else travelling with us? I Two other of my best students, as well as my wife will be going on the trip. 3) Length of stay I’ve never been to an English farm, I hope I have enough time to see every- thing. I- Don’t worry, you will. There really isn’t that much to do. C- About how long will we be staying? I- The week of Easter, and then we have to return to school in time for exams. 4) Expected activities Sounds like I’ ll have to do some studying while I'm there. What else is be- ing planned for us to do? I- Well you will learn how to milk a cow, shear wool off a sheep and make shepherd’ pie English style. CT hope a week is enough time! 5) Need to buy any presents CI am so happy that I will meet your family. Would it be OK if I brought them some gifts for the house? I- That isn’t really necessary. . . C- But I insist, you are all being so kind to me. I. Thank you, my family will be very pleased by your thoughtfulness.17. Lunch at a Fast-food Restaurant 1) Foods being served Hello, can I ask you what type of food you serve at this restaurant? We serve American fastfood. I'm sorry, what exactly does that mean? Well, we have hamburgers, sandwiches, fried chicken and French fries. 2) Soft drinks C- I'm getting hungry already. What do you have to drink? 1. We have Coke-a-Cola, Sprite, lemonade, orange juice and coffee. C- What about tea? 1. I’m sorry, we no longer serve tea. 3) Prices °. . No tea? That’s disappointing. How much is the food? 1. Hamburgers and hotdogs are 2 pounds each, sandwiches are 3 pounds, French fries are 1 pound, and a basket of fried chicken is 7 pounds. C- 7 pounds for chicken? That's outrageous! How much are the drinks? L All drinks cost 1 pound. C- Do you get free refills? I. Absolutely. C. That’s fair. Are there any special deals or discounts? Yes. If you buy a hamburger or hotdog and drink you get French fries for free. Also if you are over 55 years of age you get 15% off. Since I am not over 55 I will just have a hamburger, a Coke and a free box of French fries. Very well. Your total is 3 pounds. Please step to the right to receive your food. 18. Waiting at the Bus Station 1) Timetable Pardon me, can I ask you @ question? Is it personal? What? Oh no. . its’ about the bus timetable. Yeah sure, what do you need to know, eh? Well, I want to take a bus from Vancouver to Toronto, but there are so 65many choices, 1 don’t know which bus I should take. Do you have a sugges- tion? I. That’s an easy one, take the Maple Express 404. It leaves in half an hour. 2) Ticket C- Half an hour! I'd better hurry then. Could you point out the ticket booth to me, please? I No problem, just walk down this corridor to the end of the hall. You wouldn't happen to know how much the ticket is? I. _ Last time I went to Toronto it cost me $45. 3) Arrival at your destination C- Great! I have just enough money. Is it a long bus ride? I really hate sleeping on the bus. I. You'll be lucky if you get there by tomorrow morning. It’s a long way to Toronto. (Ub! Thanks for your time. 1 Better run, they won’ t wait for you. 19. Problems at the Library 1) Notice C- Excuse me, but I just received this notice saying I didn’t return a book that I know I already returned. Can you help me with this? I. Sure. Can I see the notice? Yes. [ have it right here. I. It says here that you were supposed to have retumed the book over three weeks ago, but you say you already turned it in? 2) Bonk (the day you borrowed it and the day you returned it) C- Yes, I handed it in about a month ago. The book is Jane Eyre by Emily Bronte. I borrowed it on 30 March and returned it on 7 April, over a month ago. I Let me check my computer. No, the computer says the book is not in the li- brary and that you were the last one to check it out. The computer is wrong. I know I already returned the book. How much does the computer say I owe in fines? I. Well, the fine is 20 pence per day and you are 23 days over due. You now owe 20.30 pounds. If the book is not returned within the next 8 days youwill be charged a missing book fee of 50 pounds. C- So you mean I might have to pay about 80 pounds? 1. No. If you tum in the book now, or within the next 8 days, you only have to pay the late fee. However, if you report the book as lost or missing then you must pay 50 pounds. C- What if T refuse to pay the fine? 1 You will not be able to borrow anymore books until the matter is settled. 3) Complain about the service What? This is stupid. 1am only a student. | cannot afford to pay such high fines, especially when I know I already returned the book. Where can I go to complain about this? 1. You ean go to the Accounting Office and speak with them. You might also try looking on the shelves in the section where you got the book. It might be there. Sometimes we make mistakes. C- If the book is on the shelf, and you made the mistake, will you give me 50 pounds? I. Sorry, we can’t do that. C- Of course. Where is the Accounting Office? I. The bottom floor of the Student Center. © OK. Thank You. - 20. Broken Laptop Computer 1) Complain about the inconvenience C. Hello, is this the returns department? 1. That's us, what can I do for you? C- Ten days ago I bought this laptop from your store, but this morning it crashed and now it won’t even turn on. I Do you have a receipt? C Yes, it’s right here. I- OK, well we can have this fixed for you by next month, if you will just sign right here we can. .. C+ next month! This is ridiculous. I just bought this computer! I- I promise that we will try to have it back to you as soon as possible. C- I’m not leaving here without a working laptop. Already I am running behind on a paper I’m writing for class. This is completely unfair! or2) Want to change it for a new one [- Well, Tcan’ t fix it for you right now. CT don’t want you to fix it right now. I want to exchange for a new one. I Look, I can’t just let anybody switch computers whenever they feel like it, there are procedures we have to follow. Then I demand to speak to your boss! 1. He’sat lunch. Besides, he will tell you exactly what I just told you No, he won't. It says right here on my receipt that if I have any problems within the first 30 days, your store will give me a new computer. No ques- tions asked. I. You’ re right. OK sorry. I'll get you the same model right away. 3) Complain about the quality of the laptop C- Could you please give me another model? I. Why, what's wrong with this one? C- From the beginning this laptop gave me problems. The screen was fuzzy and it took all day just to load Windows. I. Well, I'm not sure if I can do that. CC. If there is a price difference I will pay more. I just want good quality for my money. Is this going to be a problem? T- No sir,have you another choice in mind? C Yes, I want this one here. I- That computer will cost one hundred dollars more. C No, it won"t. I will only pay 50. I- Fine, fine, 50 dollars more, here you go. Thank you for shopping here. C- You'll be hearing from me if I have any more problems. L I'msure I will. 21. ‘The Cheapest Way Hi! Is it all right if I ask you a few questions about living in London? I heard you studied there before... Accommodation: What is the cheapest accommodation like? Where can I find it? ‘Transportation: How did you get around town?Shopping: Food: Entertainment: Student discounts: ‘Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Accommodation a) Private sector Is the bus/train system very good? Do many people ride bikes? What's a good bargain in London? Where's the best place to shop for clothes? What's the best deal that you" ve found in Lon- don? Are groceries very expensive? Is there any place where I can buy food at a low price? Are there any good restaurants that are fairly inex- pensive? Where can I find a secondhand book shop? Can I buy books from the university? How much does it cost to go out for dinner and a film? What do students in London do for fun? What's the cheapest night out you’ ve had? Do students get any kind of reduced rate for any- thing? What other kinds of student discounts are avail- able? Renting a house or a large flat with 3 or 4 friends is often cheapest way. Individual flats are most expensive. b) University accommodation Self-catering halls cheapest(shared kitchen) . c) Where to find it—university accommodation office, ads in local newspapers, 0notices on university notice boards. 2) ‘Transportation a) Bus—weekly /monthly /seasonly bus passes b) Long distance—coach (National Express student coach card) Trains: expensive, especially at peak hours. c) Bike: second hand bikes advertised in local papers 3) Shopping a) Can buy cheap household goods, clothes, fruit and veg. at street markets and special discount stores. b) Good second-hand clothing and furniture at charity shops(e.g. Oxfam). 4) Food a) Supermarkets tend to be cheapest and most convenient. Also street markets. b) Eating out—cafes, pubs. Can usually find cheap Indian/Chinese/Italian. 5) Books a) Second-hand book stores/shops b) University Book Exchange—Can buy used textbooks and also sell your old ones. 6) Entertainment a) University entertainments tend to be cheapest—films, discos, theatre, bar etc. b) Prices usually the cheapest in town. Cinemas /theatres give student concessions. Often free sports facilities in parks. 7) Discounts for Students a) Travel—student railcard/coachcard(a third off normal price) b) Museum/cinema/theatre entrance fees. 22. The Survey: Excuse me, but would you mind answering a few questions for me? I’ m do- ing a survey for a course at the University of Edinburgh. Occupation: First of all, could you tell me your occupation? ‘What exactly do you do everyday in your job? Education: What is the highest level of education you complet- ed? Do you still plan to continue your education?Family members: How many brothers and sisters do you have? Are you married? Do you have any children? How many? Personal interests: What do you do in your spare time? ‘What kinds of things do you enjoy doing when you have some time? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Occupation: Primary school teacher(3 yrs) 2) Education: 4°A’ levels, Left school at 18, Went on to Teacher Training College(4 yrs) 3) Family Members; Unmarried, 2 brothers, 1 married with 2 children. 1 sister, married, no chil- dren. 4) Interests /Hobbies: Sports, windsurfing, horse-riding 23. The Party: Excuse me, but I was wondering if you could tell me about the welcome party ‘for new students. Organiser : Is this party sponsored by the Overseas Students Office? Who is holding the party? Time: When does the party start? How long do you think the party will go until? Place: Could you tell me where the party will be held? How exactly do I get there from here? Cost: Do we have to buy tickets to go to the party? 1How much does it cost? Partner: Is there anything special | have to do if I want to bring a friend? Is it OK to bring someone along? ‘What is the party about? What kinds of things will we do at the party? Are there going to be any special activities there? Transportation: Will there be a bus to take us there and back? ‘What's the best way to get there? Is parking available? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Organiser: the Overseas Students Association. They do this every year. 2) Time: Friday evening. 8pm. 3) Place: The Smithdown Bar in the basement of the Students’ Union building 4) Cost: Free of charge. Don't have to get tickets. 5) Partner: Can bring a friend—doesn’t have to be an overseas student 6) Activities: Nothing special, just dancing, chatting, getting to know one another. Members of the Overseas Students Committee will be there. 7) Transportation: As party will end at midnight, mini buses will be arranged for students who live in halls of residence. 8) Other: Will be a bar with drinks at special reduced price. Snacks will be provided. ‘Around 200 Students should be there, both from overseas & UK.24. The Newspaper Article Thanks for letting me interview you for the newspaper. I hope you don’ t mind answering some personal questions. Family: School ; Childhood memories: Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Family: Tell me something about your family. ‘Are you married? Do you have any children? What do they do? Who in your family has had the most significant in- fluence on you? Where did you go to school? What did you study? Did you enjoy that? What were you good at? ‘What's one good memory you have about school? What's one bad memory you have about school? Why did you go into education? What's one thing you remember about your child- hood? If you could change one thing about your child- hood, what would it be? How has an event in your childhood impacted your life today? Who is your oldest and dearest friend? Do you still keep ini touch with your childhood friends? High school friends? University friends? Tell me about one of your most unusual friends. Married. One brother. Parents both retired. 2) School: Went to state school. Quite a good pupil. 3B3) Childhood Memories: Being lost in a park aged 4. Impression left by grandmother’ sudden death. 4) Friends: In touch with 3 school friends and several university friends. 25. The Reception ; Excuse me. don't know if you" re the right person to ask, but I” m trying to {find out some information about the reception for new students. Host: ‘Who is hosting the reception? Who are the organisers? Time & place: Where will it be held? Where exactly is that? What time does it begin? Approximately how long will it last? Participants: Who is invited? Can anyone attend or is it just for new students? How many people are you expecting to come? Will faculty members also be there? Activities: ‘Are there any special activities planned? What kind of things are we going to do there? Food & drink: Ts this a dinner or lunch reception? Will it be buffet or a sit-down meal? Is there a cash bar? Will we have to pay for all our drinks? Dress: Ts there a dress code? Is it formal or casual? Tickets: Can I buy a ticket now? How much does it cost? Can we buy tickets at the door? 4Attendance: Are all new students expected to attend? If I really can’t attend, will that be a problem? Anything else: Is there anything else I should know? ‘Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Host: Dean of the department 2) Time & Place: ‘Thursday 7pm, Abercromby Hall in the Students’ Union building. 3) Participants: Both old and new students in the department. Staff members of the department, both teaching and admin. The Vice Chancellor. 4) Activities: Vice Chancellor will give a welcoming speech. Staff members of the department will be introduced. Nothing special, chatting, socialising. . 5) Food & Drink: Drinks and snacks will be provided. 6) Dress: Smart but casual 7) Tickets: Tickets are free, but must apply for them from the Dean’ secretary. 8) Attendance Compulsory? : No, but good opportunity to meet students & staff. 26. The Writing Assignment ; Were you in class yesterday? I wasn’ t able to make it. Could you tell me what the teacher assigned? Topic/Content: What was the main topic of the assignment? What did the teacher say we should include? Length: How long should the assignment be? How many words are required? ryPresentation: Is there any special format we need to follow? Will we have to give an oral presentation as well? Do we have to type it? Title page: How did the teacher want us to do the title page? Do we need to make a title page? Submission: When is the assignment due? ‘What is the due date? ‘When is the deadline for the project? Place of Submission: Where do we hand it in? Who do we give it to? Should we bring the assignment to class to hand in? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Topic/Content Choose from the recommended reading list. 2) Length: 2,000 to 3,000 words: 3) Presentation: Must be typed, double spaced. 4) Title Page: Must include your name, tutor’s name, title and course code 5) Submission Date: Before the last day of term(in four weeks). 6) Place of Submission: Tutor’s office, if not there, in a box outside office. 7) Others: Extensions must be granted by tutor, and only for exceptional circum- stances. Will be returned in first week after vacation. 27. Entertainment in London ; Excuse me, I'm new to London , and I wonder if you can help me get to know this place a bit better. 76‘Cinema: What kind of films do they play at the cinema? ‘How much does it cost to see a film at the cinema? Where is the closest cinema? Theatre: Are there any theatres close to the college? I heard London was one of the best places for live theatre. Is that true? Pubs; What time do pubs close? What is the legal drinking age in Brit Do a lot of students hang out in the pubs on week- ends? Restaurants; What kind of restaurants are around here? Where can I find good, inexpensive Chinese food? Sports; What's the most popular sport in Britain? Which is the best team? How much do tickets cost to watch a local football «match? Cari you get CNN? Do I have to get cable TV or are there plenty of channels available? What time is the news? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Cinema: Many cinemas, The Odeon, The Plaza. ABC, Showing both new releases and older films. To see alternative and foreign films, go to the Bluecoat Arts Centre. 2) Theatres: In the West End, all kinds—classics, drama, comedies, musicals. The Barbican Centre, home of the Royal Shakespeare Company. The National Theatre—3 sepa- rate theatres in new building. The Royal Opera House—home of National Opera Company and Roy al Ballet.3) Pubs: Most popular social activity in UK. Therefore many pubs in different styles. Old, traditional /newer American style bars/with disco/attached restaurant. Most have a darts board/pool table/dominoes, and serve bar meals. Open from 11:00am — 11:00pm. 4) Restaurants: Alll kinds of national restaurants—mainly around Soho Large Chinatown. 5) Sports: Six top football teams in London. Tennis at Wimbledon in June. Rugby Union at ‘Twickenham. Cricket at Lord’ s. Many sports centres, swimming pools, and gyms in London. 6) Tv: 4 channels: BBC 1: General viewing programmes—films, documentaries, plays, comedies, soap operas. BBC 2; educational programmes. ITV: commercial channel—light viewing. Channel 4: programmes for minority audiences. 28. Health Care: Hi! I would like to get some information about the kinds of health care provid- ed in the UK, if I may. Facilities: Can you tell me something about the health care facilities? How modern are the health care facilities? Does each health care facility use the latest medical technology? Does the university have its own clinic? Public/Private: ‘What’ s the main difference between public and private health care? Is private health care really worth it? Registration: If I register with one doctor, do I always have to see him/her? BI’m not quite clear how the registration procedure works. What does it mean if I register with a doc- tor? Insurance: What does my current medical insurance cover? Do you recommend that I purchase additional med- ical insurance? Is medical insurance necessary? Emergencies: What are the procedures for emergencies? What kind of emergency medical services are avail- able? Prescriptions: Where can I get my prescriptions filled? ‘Does my medical insurance cover the cost of pre- scription medicine? How about nonprescription medicine? Cue Card for the Interviwer ; 1) Health Care Facilities University Health Clinic for all students. 4Doctors.’ Appointments in morning. Morning surgery no appointments necessary. 2) Public/Private Health Care Public: Free of charge (for students staying over 6 months) Private: Have to pay, expensive, but avoids waiting lists. 3) Registration Register at university clinic upon arrival, or with local GP. Unnecessary to register with dentist. Just go to one for treatment /check- up. 4) Medical Insurance Can take out cover for medical expenses (treatment, medicine). Will cover you a- gainst both illness and accident. 5) Emergencies 5 Dial 999 for ambulance/police/fire brigade. Book an emergency appointment with your doctor. 6) Prescriptions MedicineDoctor will give you a prescription, which you then take to a chemists to get the medicine. Medicine free, but small prescription charge. 29. The Library: Excuse me. I’ m new to this school, and I d really appreciate it if you could help me find my way around the library. Joining: Borrowing: Fines: Finding books: Layout: Special facilities: Do I have to complete a special application to get a library card? Is there a membership fee? How do I borrow books? ‘What's the procedure if | want to borrow a book? ‘What is the late fine for overdue books? Is there a limit to the total amount of fines for ‘overdue material? What's the easiest way to look for a book on a cer- tain subject? If I know the title and author’s name, what’ the best way to track down the book? Is it possible to know if a book has already been taken out by another member? Can you give me a general idea of the layout of the library? How many floors are there? What types of books are on each floor? Is there a map I can look at to get a better idea of how the books are laid out? Besides books, what other kinds of facilities are available for members’ use? Are there any special facilities or activities I shouldknow about? Opening hours; When does the library open? When does it close? What are the library’ s hours? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) How to Join By completing a form. Must produce your departmental student card. 2) Borrowing Books Post gradates may borrow up to 10 books at one time for up to 6 weeks. Can re- new for another 6, unless books have been recalled. 3) Fines 10p per day per book. 4) Finding Books a) All catalogue is on computer Can look up book under author or title, or do a search under subject index. Computers on all floors. b) Catalogue also still on card index. But only under author. Library staff will be giving tours of library and demonstrations on how to use the computers throughout Fresher"s Week. 5) Layout Plan on the wall, also lists of subjects on each floor. Ground floor—short term loan collection, card catal&@f®, photocopiers. Ist floor-refereyes,. periodicals, journals. Candidate’ ton third floor. 6) Special Facitities 7.9 ah a) Audio-visual area: Video tay can pe viewed/Audio tapes listened to. b) Computer area: Gives neo renin computer network, can also access other college networks, so can keep up to date with latest developments within your field, ¢) Microfilm readers and printers. d) Private study rooms for research students. 7) Opening Hours Mon-Fri: am-10pm, Saturday: Sam-6pm, Sunday; am-Spm 30. The Meeting: 8I heard there was an emergency meeting, so I rushed over here as fast as 1 could. Unfortunately, I don” t know anything at all about the meeting. Could ou fill me in a bit on what” s going on? Subject: Participants: ‘Time/Place: Attendance: Anything else: Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Subject of Meeting: First of all, what is this meeting all about? ‘What’ s on the agenda? ‘What is the main purpose of the meeting? Why are we meeting? ‘Who has been asked to attend this meeting? Is it just a meeting of student representatives or will someone from the university be in attendance too? ‘Who is chairing the meeting? When and where exactly is the meeting? How long do you think the meeting will last? How long will the meeting be? Do I have to go? in Pa ‘Who has to go? Sc . Is this meeting compulsory? ‘What else should I know? Is there anything else I need to know? Proposed closure of the Slanton Library. Due to reduced government funding, the university authorities have had to make cuts, one of which will be the closing of this library. The library holds extensive specialist materials on science and technol- ogy. 2) Participants: 82Vice chancellor, Students’ Union Executive Committee, students. 3) Chairperson: ‘The president of the Student’s Union 4) Time & Place: Wednesday 2pm in the Mountford Hall, Students’ Union building. 5) Length: About an hour to an hour and a half. 6) Attendance compulsory? : No, but since it is very important, as many students as possible should go, partic- ularly if science/technology students. 7) Anything else: Meeting will clarity situation & look at suggestions to make savings. Will also dis- cuss possible action against closure. 31. The Local Town ; Hi there. Do you have a few minutes? I’ m new here and I’ m trying to find out more about this town . It" Ul just take a moment . Accommodation: First of all, what kind of housing do most students live in? What types of accommodation are available around here? How much does it generally cost for accommoda- tions? ‘Transport: Is there a bus system in this town? How is it? How much does it cost to take the bus? How much do taxis cost? How do people get around here? Entertainment: What kinds of entertainment are there? What do students usually do for fun? ‘What happens here on the weekends? Sports: Is there anywhere where I can take tennis lessons? - 83‘What sports are most popular? Are there any sports matches nearby? Food: Where’ s a good place to eat around here? Is there a supermarket nearby? What kinds of restaurants are within walking dis- tance? Shopping: ‘Where’ s a good place to shop? What types of shops are there? ‘Where can I get a good bargain? Books: Where's the closest bookshop? Is there tax on books? Is there a secondhand bookstore in town? What are the libraries like? ‘Student discounts; Do students get discounts? Is there a student rate for the bus? What kinds of discounts are there for students? Cue Card for the Interviwer ; 1) Accommodation University accommodation a) Halls of residence: single or double room, shared bathroom, no cooking facili- ties—eat in dining halls. b) Self-catering halls: single rooms, shared bathroom and kitchen. c) Shared flats: with up to 10 other students, own room, shared facilities. d) Sharing a house: cheap own room, shared facilities. Most students live in Smithdown area, cheapest area in city. e) Flat: 1/2 rooms, own kitchen and bathroom. ‘Where to find it: University Accommodation Office/newspaper ads/college notice-board. 2) Transportation Regular bus services, first bus Sam, last bus 11pm, can buy weekly /monthly /sea- 84sonly bus-passses. Black taxi cabs, Minimum charge of 70p 3) Entertainment 2 good theatres, opera house, concert hall, numerous cinemas, good pubs. 4) Sports Premier league football team. Top tennis tournament in summer Sports centre with swimming pool, gyms, tennis, badminton, volleyball courts, five-a-side football, golf course. 5) Food Most students shop at large supermarkets—quick & convenient. Many good cheap restaurants near college—Chinese, Italian, Indian, Mexican. 6) Shopping . Large shopping precinct in centre—department stores and specialist shops. 7) Books Waterstones and Blackwells—2 largest bookshops. Many 2nd-hand bookshops. 8) Dissounts for Students ite Cinemas, theatres, concerts all give concessions" Student Rail card/Student Coach card both give a third off travel. (ae my 32. Accommodations : Hello there. Is this the university housing office? Could you tell me where I can find advertisements for flats to rent? ‘Types of accommodation; What kinds of housing are available near the campus? Distance from college: _I really want to stay within walking distance of the university. What is available close by? How far is it from the university? Location: I want to live in a good neighbourhood, if possible. How much would a basement flat nearby cost? Where is it exactly? Transportation: If I live further from the campus, what is the pub- 85Rent: Facilities: Kitchen/Bathroom: ‘Telephone: Possibility of sharing: Notice period: Possibility to view: Cue Card for the Interviwer : 86 lic transportation like? Is it very reliable? How can I get there? Do I need to sign a one-year lease?(¥7 What is the going rate for a one-bedroom flat in the south side of town? How much do I have to pay a month? What kind of facilities should I expect to find in an flat house? I’m interested in finding a place with good recre- ational facilities. Do you know of any place like that? Approximately how much would it cost for @ room with a shared kitchen and shared bathroom? Is it possible to rent a flat with my own kitchen and bathroom at a reasonable price? If [want a phone in my flat, how much will that cost? How much does a telephone line cost each month? Do you have a list of flats to share? How can I find someone to share an flat with me? If really don’t like my flat, how much notice do I have to give my landlord? What" s the standard notice period if I want to move out? Would it be possible for me to see some of these flats? AT1) Types of Accommodation ‘Two. types: a) University halls or shared flats b) Private—bedsits/flats/shared house Shared Halls/Flats Flat/Shared House /Bedsit 2) Location Next to university precinet._, Southfields. Student area 3) Distance 2 mins to S. U. building 15 mins by bus to university. 10 mins into centre 10 mins by bus to centre. 4) Transport Bus stop just outside halls. Bus stop 100yds down the road. (buses every 15 mins) (buses every 10 mins) ‘Taxi rank nearby. 5) Rent x per week Shd house/bedsit_ 5 exclusive Inclusive of bills _, Flat 5 of bills ies 3 POP Be launderette, TV room Shd_house/bedsit: 2 rooms, wi] kitchen & bathroom games room, music room sports gro Flat: own room Flats: TV, loungé, washing Both fully furnished/gas machine, small garden cooker/small garden at back. 7) Kitchen/Bathroom £25 Hi Halls: Both shared with corde PT ia Shd house/bedsit: Shared both with (10 people) 4 others(students). Both washing machine 8) Telephone Halls; Pay phones in all Shd house: Incomihg)calls only. corridors. flat: No telephone. Flats: pay telephone 9) Notice Period 2 weeks 1 month 33. The Conference: 87Hi! I’ m not sure if you" re the right person to ask, but I heard that there would be a conference next month, and I’ d like to find out more information about it. ‘Topic: What is the conference on? What is the main topic of the conference? Speakers :Who will be the keynote speakers? Have they already determined who the speakers will be? Schedule:Can you give me a rough idea of what the conference schedule will be like? When/Where: When exactly will the conference be held? Where will the conference be meeting? How to get there: I’m not very familiar with that area. How do you get there from the highway? Will maps be provided to help us find our way there? Accommodations; What kind of accommodation will be included with the con- ference fee? What will the accommodation be like? Social activities: Will we get a chance to do any purely soci Are there any social nights planned? Registration: What are the registration procedures? Bh a How do I register? | Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Topic: fh, de AIBA, Candidate’ s field of study 2) Speakers: Leading experts from that field 883) Schedule: . tt Friday: Registration eed! o Saturday: Sam—Spm: conference gy (4x ~~ Sunday: 9am—12: smaller optionat meetings on various topies of specialisation 2pm— 4pm: Closing session 4) When & Where: Manchester Conference Centre. In 2 weeks time (weekend of 21 st) 5) How to Get There: By train/coach Between 4—9prit on Friday, special conference mini-buses will run form Piccadilly coach station & Victoria train station to conference centre. Otherwise buses No 2146. 6) Accommodation: Hotel attached to conference centre. 7) Social Activitic Welcoming reception on Friday evening. Cheese & wine party on Saturday evening. 8) Registration: Unnecessary to register now. Register upon arrival in Manchester. Registration fee of 0 34. College Information Office (1): Hi! I’ ma new student , and I’ m lost. You wouldn’ t by any chance have any time to help me out, would you? . ‘Student welfare office: I’m not sure what the Student Welfare Office does. Can you fill me in a bit? Student counsellors/tutors: _ How do I go about fi ‘What do I have to do lor? How does a counsellor help me? ing a tutor? I want to see a counsel- Health care: ‘Does this school have its own medical clinic? 89What kind of health care does the university pro- vide? Insurance: ‘What kind of insurance do I need to get? What is available? Is it worth it to get insured? English language classes: Can you tell me about the English language class- es offered here? What kinds of classes are there for learning Eng- lish? ‘Travel Information: How easy is it to get around town? ‘Where can I book airline tickets? Cue Card for the Interviwer ; 1) Welfare Office wy” Information/advice centregtll gspects of college life and living in the UK, yet ital accommodation guidance for overseas stu- dents, leaflets/booklets on most common areas of en- vio. Bi Her 2) Comsat itors . Counsellors; Deal with academic/social /emotional /clinical problems. ‘Tutors: Volunteer students assigned to new students to help them settle in. 3) Health Care Aue. ee hy University Health Contre: Provides comprehensive Haital service, Froe if stay for more than 6 months, R arrival, Appointments in afternoon only, Or register with local GP Denti 4) Insurance Endsleigh Insurance: Student insurance company. Branch in SU building. 5) English Language Cl: 1 registration unnecessary. English Language Unit: Phoyides and courses for overseas students. a) Intensive pre-sessional:72/3 during July—Sept. b) English for academic purposes: 1 year, full time application c) In-session language support classes held during lunch hour or late afternoon, 90be y Free, Maximum of 5 hrs per week, Contact the Language Unit for more de- tails. 6) Travel Information Union Travel Shop in SU building, Cheap travel, Open 9am ~ Spm daily. 35. College Information Office (2): Excuse me, 1’ ve just arrived at the university. Can you help me? Location of accommodation: I’ve been assigned to the South Residence Hall. Could you help me find it? Location of dining halls: Where can I find the dining halls? How easy is it to find the dining halls? Location of department: Would you be able to direct me to my department? I'm not very sure where to find my department Registration: How do I go about registering with the police? Is it really necessary to register with the po- lice? Joining the Students’ Union: — Am I automatically a part of the Students’ U- nion? ‘What do I have to do to join the Students’ U- nion? English language test: Do all students have to take the English lan- guage test? ‘When will the English language test be held? What happens if I don’t pass the English lan- guage test? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Accommodation 91William Morris Tower (single study rooms), Tall building just across square. 2) Dining Halls Behind William Morris Tower, hexagonal shaped building. 3) Registration With Police All non-Commonwealth & EC nationals must register with police within 7 days of arrival. 4) Student's Union Automatic, free membership Recreational & social centre of college. societies, clubs, bars, cafes, shops. music, games area, travel shop, welfare advice. Collect Union membership card from sports hall during Fresher’ s Week, passport photo required. Also serves as student ID to get concessions. 5) English Language Test Al non-native speakers must take English test upon arrival. Two aims: a) to advise students on possibility of extra tuitions b) keep statistical check on overseas students” level of English. Takes 2 hours, listening, reading, writing. Details sent later in week. 6) Location of Department Dept. is on other side of campus. Monday 8:45 am, student tutor will take them to dept. and show around 36. University Information ; Excuse me, are youa student here? I just arrived a few days ago, and wonder if you have time to help me find my way around. Students’ Union: Could you show me where the Students” Union office is? What exactly does the Students’ Union do? Union society /clubs: What other societies and clubs are there? ‘What fraternities and sororities are on campus? Sports faciliti ‘What kinds of sports facilities are available here? Do we have to pay extra to use the sports facilities?Campus entertainment; — What do people do around here for fun? ‘What's there to do on weekends? ‘Travel: Is there a campus travel agency? How easy is it to plan a travelling holiday? ‘Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Student’s Union Recreational, social, cultural & political centre of college, represents students’ terests within the college and campaigns on their behalf. Umbrella for union societies & clubs. Films, theatre, concerts. ‘Welfare and support service. 2) Union Societies Religious, cultural, national, international, political, social, musical. Sporting. Elect own executive committees and manage own finances. Usually nominal fee to join. 3) Sports Facilities All kinds—sports hall, outdoor/indoor pitches, courts, swimming pool, gymnasi- um, nearby sailing centre. 4) Entertainment Theatre: student & professional performances, Cinema: films twice a week, Dis- cos, parties, dances, concerts, rock groups. Bars & cafes. 5) Travel Union Travel Shop—discounted travel. 37. Bank Holiday: Hello\ 1d like to plan a weekend trip for the upcoming holiday. Can I ask you a few questions? What's available: Well, for starters, what kind of weekend trips are there? How to get there: Would you suggest I travel by car or by plane? Is it very difficult to get there? 93Entrance fees: Are entrance fees included in that price or are they extra? How much is the ticket for the museum? Location: Where exactly is the park located? How far from downtown is it? Opening times: What are the opening hours of the parks and museums? What time does the museum open’ ~ Anything else: Is there anything else I’ ve forgotten? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Museums a) National Museum of the Moving Image. South Bank Complex. History of film and TV. Special exhibition on Eastenders( popular UK soap opera). 10am ~ 6pm daily. Admssn cones: 50 Tube station: Waterloo lines: Bakerloo/Northern. b) The British Museum, Bloomsbury Avenue. Exhibits from UK & abroad, past & present. 10am ~ Spm daily except Sunday 10am— 4pm. Admssn Free. ‘Tube station: Bloomsbury lines: Central. c) Science Museum. Exhibition Road Special display on Michael Faraday. 9am ~ Spm daily. Tube station: South Kensington lines 2) Bodiam Castle East Sussex Most complete medieval fortress in Europe( built 1385) Museum & shop 10am — 6pm daily. Admssn 50. Train: BR Victoria to Bodiam(2 hrs) Other side of town (signposted). 3) Thorpe Park, Staines Rd, Chertsey, Surrey Fun Park: many different rides, log Flume, Roller Coaster, Canadian Creek, Railway, Treasure Island, Restaurant & theatre. Open 8am ~ 8pm deily. ‘Admssn. 0 Cones 5 includes all rides Train: BR Euston to Chertsey (1 hr), Regular shuttle buses operate between sta- tion and park.4) Capital Radio Folk Festival, Crystal Palace Bowl, Park Road Sponsored by London Radio Station, Dance & music from around Britain. All day programme starting 10am until 11pm. ‘Admssn. 0 Cones. Some events may incur extra charge. BR Waterloo to Putney (20 mins) or Jubilee line to Crystal Palace. 5) Safari Park, Windsor Just 3 miles from Windsor Castle, so could visit that too. 9am ~ Spm daily ‘Admssn. 2.50 Cones. 50 Train: BR Kings Cross to Windsor (2 hrs). Buses every half hour to park. 38. Competition (1): Congratulations! I heard you won a competition! Great stuff! Kind of competition: What exactly was the competition all about? What did you have to do for the competition? Prize: What did you get for winning the competition? What prize did you get? Interviewer’ feeling: So, how do you feel about winning? Are you pretty excited about coming in first? Interviewer's intention: Where do you go from here? What’ s next on the agenda for you? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) Kind: local supermarket. Had to complete an advertising slogan. 2) Prize: Dinner for two in local French restaurant. 3) Interviewer’ s Feeling: Not pleased, doesn’t want to go. Last time went, was ill afterwards. 4) Intention: Will probably give prize to friends. 9539. Competition (2): Well, congratulations on a fine showing! I heard you won second prize! Sounds like it must have been a pretty tough competition | Second prize: First prize: Kind of competition: Organiser: ‘When/How long for: ‘Travel arrangements: Cue Card for the Interviwer 1) Second Prize: What was the second prize? What kind of award did you get for second place? What did the first-place winner get? What was the first prize like? What was the competition for? What kind of competition was it? Who were the organisers of the competition? Who organized the competition? When are you going on the trip? How long will it last? How will you go there? Where are you going to stay? Are you going to take someone along? 2 weeks vacation in the USA. Plus x spending money. 2) First Prize: 3 weeks in the Caribbean. 3) Kind: Geographical competition in magazine. Had to answer general knowledge questions onvarious countries. 4) Organiser: the magazine 5) When/How Long: 96Winners can choose when to go within a year. 2 weeks. 6) Travel Arrangements: Fly from London Heathrow to Florida. Spend week in Miami then on to Key West, vi ing Disneyland. Stay in a 5 star hotel. 40. Tutor’ s Accomodation : Maybe we should set up a time to meet and work on this project . When available: What's a good time for you? When are you free? ‘Where he/she lives: Whereabouts do you live? ‘What's the nearest major intersection to your place? Facilities; Will we have enough room if we meet at your place? Can we get access to the Internet from your place? Kind of accommodate : What are you living in? What kind of place do you have? Interviewer’ feeling about accommodation; How do you like where you' re liv- ing? ‘Are you pretty happy living there? Cue Card for the Interviwer : 1) When Available: next week, Thursday evening. 7pm. 2) Lives: in Toxteth area(near centre). 24 Lark Lane. 3) Type of Accommodation: large old terraced house. 4) Facilities: 4 bedroomed, large garden at back. 5) Interviewer’ s Feeling: Just moved into accommodation 2 weeks ago, Very pleased with it, Re-decorating at the moment, so a mess. Nice neighbours.UNIT FIV! Phase 4: Speculation and Attitudes I . Introduction: ‘The interviewer will refer to the information you gave in section one and ask you about your plans for your studies and what you intend to do after you complete the next stage of your education and in the future. You may have to talk about your am- bitions and hopes or what you will do if some of your plans do not work out the way you hope they will. This section tests: * how well you can talk about your own attitudes, opinions, emotions and plans: + whether you can speculate about the future and use conditional verbs: + how well you can talk about your acade * how well you can describe and compare objects and eventst + whether you can cope with changes between formal and informal languages. ferests3 Section four is intended to push your English to the limit of your ability. The inter- viewer is likely to include some surprising questions. This means that you will almost certainly experience some difficulty by the end of the test. Dont worry, it is the aim of the test to find out the level at which you begin to experience difficulty. If you are asked to discuss your future plans and hopes, it briefly. Nor should you say that you have no plans or that you don’t know. Firstly, not a good idea to answer it appears weak to western eyes if a person has no plans for their future. Secondly, at this point in the interview the interviewer is looking at how well you can use the lan- guage of conditionals and hypothesis, of what might happen if... , or what you might do if... Talk about your hopes, plans and fears: I hope to. a personality does not seem weak when a person expresses possible alternative plans. * In western culture If you really are unsure of your future, you can talk about your options, or you can in- vent some plans—it does not have to be the truth, although clearly the truth is usually easier to talk about. 98section also covers your personal plans as well as your professional plans. It is ac- ceptable to talk about your hopes of (maybe)getting married and rearing a family, of your sporting and non -professional interests. Remember that western people enjoy a lot of sport and hobbies, so the interviewer expects to hear you talking about these things as well as about your professional career. Finally, bear in mind that this section is your last chance to show the interviewer just how good your spoken English is, so give it everything you have! Tl .Requirements: ‘The requirements for effective performance in stage 4 are that you * talk at some length about your future plans—usually about your work or study goals—with as little prompting as possible; “© provide as much detail as you can about some aspect of your future; * speculate on what may or may not happen in the future and indicate your atti- tude to various outcomes; + talk around difficult questions ities. more simple language to experss complex- Remember ; Stage 4 is concerned with your ability to speak in detail about your in- tended future— prepare a likely future plan for yourself in advance . ll .Dos and Don’ ts: Ni 1. Plan the talk about your future in sections similar to those given in the flowchart in exercise 4. Of course, you can use your own plan- ning ideas if you wish. 2. Prepare before the test by asking yourself wh/how questions of each section of your talk. The answers x 1. Do not simply mention that you will, say, work for a company af- ter you graduate. Name a compa- ny: imagine your future position, and pretend. You will never see the examiner again! 2. Do not be surprised if the examiner asks you questions as you talk. Once you have finished answering in detail, 99can form the basis of your talk. 3. Use appropriate future forms and phrases to express the chance of a future situation occurring. you can continue where you were be- fore in the conversation. 3. Do not overuse the word “will” ‘There are many other ways to ex- press the future in English. “Will” is often too definite to indicate _ plans which, after all, may or may not happen as you wish. 4. Try to talk around a difficult ques- tion by speculating, using simple words to express complex ideas. It is not a good idea to give up and fail to try and express yourself. IV .Useful Expressions: 1. Suggested Phrases and Topics For Stage 4 at the moment I’m |] studying at working Well, as you know, as.I told you before, I'm preparing right now to go to... so my short-term plan is to... I've already found out |. alot about (sour intended course), for instance..." If I’m successful, I'll probably. ..s0, in the long-term, | hope to. If I'm not successful, that is if something goes wrong, I think I'll probably. Vm | certain (do something) Pmeertain "ibe | going to (do something) I'm going tobe —_|(doing something)] intending to. (co something) T intend to be thinking of (doing something.) [think Ill be _ i most probably lo something , eu probably (be able to) (de thing) possibly 7 o_o - = 1 | possibly won’ t mething’ bly won’ t (be able to) (do something) most probably won’ t | 7 T might even. .. Perhaps I"Il even. I’ve thought about (doing something) Of course, I could always. .. Ie's al ble that a good . a50-50 chance of | smethin Pega | 0 (doing something) litle l —i mw 100J don't know if I'll...,, but I might be able to... * I probably won't..., but if Ido IIL. Sometimes | wonder} i¢ Vil. whether I'm not sure if I'Il..., but... @F certainly will bound to ‘most probably probably (possibly / maybe) (may) might / perhaps it’s 50-50 whether I'l... possibly won"t / maybe I won't (may) might not/perhaps I won't probably won't ‘most probably wont surely won't / sure [ won't O7/definitely won't SHAR 4 RERP CIEL RAAG LERMHR TARA Oh FH TURAL, 4 PRD ERRA RS AG, eT MA aT ED RAR AS kL 2. Asking for Opinions What's your opinion of. ..? What do you think of... How do you feel about: T was wondering what your opinion of. . . was? I was wondering where you stood on the question of. . What about. . .? 3. Giving Opinions I'd like to point out... As far as I"m concerned, . . In my opinion, .. . From my point of view, I think. .. Personally, I think... It would seem to me that... As far as I’m able to judge. .. Frankly, I think... I reckon. If you ask me... You know what [ think, I think that... I'd say that... The point is... 2 101Wouldn't you say that. ..? Don’t you agree that... As I see it... I'd just like to say that I think that... 4. Agreeing and Disagreeing Agreement I agree entirely. I totally agree. I couldn't agree more. I agree with you on that. That's just what I was thinking. You know, that’s exactly what I think. That’s a good point. I take your point. I'm with you on that. I'd go along with you on that/there. Disagreement Do you really think so? I wouldn't agree. I don’t agree. I disagree. I see what you mean, but... Yes, that’s quite true, but... I'm not really sure if 1 would agree with you on that. I wouldn't go along with you there/on that. Well, you have a point there, but... can’t accept that. Perhaps, but don’t you think that. . . can’t agree with you there. You can’t be serious. Come off it! Don’t be so silly! ‘You must be joking. A5. Tentative Ways of Expressing an Opinion I sometimes think that. . ‘Well I’ ve heard that Would you agree that. . 7 Do you think it's right to say that... 6. Asking For Clarifications I'm sorry, I don’t quite understand what you mean by. .. I didn’t quite follow what you were saying abou I'm sorry, could you explain what you mean by. I don’t quite see what you mean, I’m afraid. I'm afraid I'm not really very clear about what you mean by. . T don’t quite see what you' re getting at. What do you mean by...? 1. Giving Clarifications Well, the point I'm trying to make is that... Let me put it another way... Well, what I’m trying to say is that... That's not quite what I meant. .. Sorry, let me explain. .. I think what I mean is that... What I mean is that... What I'm saying is that... Well, to be frank. .. Well, frankly. .. 8. Hesitating Um er Well Actually In fact The thing is You know Let's see now How shall I put it It’s like this, you see Sort of a (lengthened to ayy) the (lengthened to thee) to (lengthened to tooo) 1039. Interrupting Politely Can I say something here? I'd like to say something, if I may. If I could just come in here. . Sorry to interrupt, but. . Can Tadd something? Can I add here that... I'd just like to say that... Excuse me for interrupting, but... That reminds me. . I'd like to comment on that. Can I ask a question? May I ask something? Sorry, but... Um... um...um... (repeated until the speaker lets you speak) . (to change the subject) By the way 10. Responding to What Has Been Said ‘That's interesting. . . Yes, I agree. I'm not sure I entirely agree. . 11, Introducing a Topic There are two main differences, really. Well, it’s quite simple. First... 12. Saying you don’ t know I'm sorry... I’m afraid I don’t know the answer to that. V .Exercises: Exercise 1 Answer the following questions: 1) What are you going to major in? In your answer, speak about: subjects employment your reasons 1042) Are you going to do your own cooking when you are at university? In your answer, speak about: intention uncertainties, preferences 3) Do you think you’ ll be able to cope with the English-language demands of your intended study programme? In your answer, predict language demands/give examples assess your language skills/give examples predict your performance Exerei Answer the following questions. Pay attention to the organisation of your answers: 1) If you hadn’t studied X, what field would you have chosen? 2) What qualities does a good teacher need? 3) What do you see yourself doing in five years time? 4) What is successful communication, in your opinion? 5) What are your goals in life? Exercise 3 Give a one-minute, totally unprepared talk to the class. The idea is to keep talking constantly and not be silent while you are talking. In fact you should try to give as little information as possible. Choose from the following one subject you know least about. ‘The best way to start is “Well, I’ ve been asked to talk about...” Architecture Crime Art Food Clothing Classical music American politics ‘The Queen of Great Britain Touri ‘Smuggling Antarctic Journalism Television Pollution Information superhighway Cyberspace Power politics NATO Smoking Homosexuality 105Sex discrimination Healthy food Exercise 4 ‘Talk about your future with the hints in the Sample Flowchart: PRESENT SITUATION ALmANS marriage / children / boy / gl fiend? hob —— bes? travel to counties? Joln cub? write a [ead book? sports-tike up pl? ssh? tems? et | with the FUTURE fi Interestvlearm to type? do. computer Lpresent_| ‘STUDY CAREER PLANS one N wt-term| | Tong-term \study /careen—~|study /caree plans. plans PERSONAL PLANS N. — [short-term] [ Tong-term personal || personal {plans} L_plans_| TOPIC Note: You can choose the topic that the ex- - aminer Might wish to examine in | ® Topic related to greater detail by leading into it at the (your future Beorcise 5 end of your future plans talk. How optimistic or pessimistic do you feel about the future? Discuss these statements and questions with a partner. Spend at least two minutes on each one. + Humans have realised too late the environmental consequences of their activities. * If scientists’ predictions about global warming are accurate, how do you think your country will be affected? + In the next 50 years, the world’ s population will start to decrease. * Are there any ways that you personally can contribute to improving the environ- ment? * My children will inherit the consequences of our abuse of the world’s resources. + How do you think the lives of your grandchildren will differ from your own? + How will a better knowledge of English help you (or someone you know) in your present situation? 106Exercise 6 [@ o] Listen to the dialogue and answer the two questions. 1. Do you think the man is optimistic or pessimistic about the future? 2. Did he make any points that you made when you talked about the same statement? VI. Answer Keys: Exercise 2 1) Well, let me see. I think I would have chosen psychology. There are several rea- so inst, I have always wanted to know how people’ s mind works since I was very young. When I was a little boy/girl, I was often wondering why people had dif- ferent ideas and were in different moods. I was always curious about what people were thinking about, even what I was thinking about myself. Another reason is that I am a teacher, and I think 2 good knowledge in psychology would be very helpful to me in my work. Finally, I'd like to help people with mental problems. 2) Well, It’s a big topic. I think a good teacher should have several qualities: First of all, a good teacher should love his/her job and be responsible for his/her students. He/she should also be patient with them and always ready to help them solve their problems in their studies. Again, a good teacher should be knowledge- able in his/her field. And of course he/she should have a clear speech. 3) Refer to question No. 165 in Unit Seven. 4) L think successful communication should have the following features: First, the people involved in the communication should be honest and frank to each other. They should tell each other what they really think. On the other hand, they should respect each other's opinions and not try to force the other side to fol- low his/her own idea. 5) Refer to question No. 166 in Unit Seven. Exercise 5 Did you have enough ideas to spend two minutes on each statement or question? If it 107was difficult, why? Were the topics unfamiliar? Remember, you may be asked to talk about topics that are not directly related to your life or work in the IELTS interview. You also had to speculate abou the future: that is, make guesses and predictions, for example, about your country’s future. Did you follow up your responses with suggestions about possible actions? Exercise6 ff 6] A: What do you think about this statement ~ ‘My children will inherit the conse- quences of our abuse of the earth's resources. "? B: Hmm. Well, think It’s probably true. A: Why? B; Well, I think that it’s our generation that's seen a huge rise in the use of fossil fu- ik els. We’ re using up the forests of the world, we’ re using up the coal, well, of the consumption of oil. It’s absolutely colossal! A: Yeah. But 1 sequences? is talking about the consequences in the future. | mean what con- B: Well, I suppose it’s going to run out, isn't it. I mean there won’ t be any oil. Perhaps our children will still have it, but looking further ahead at our grandchil- dren, great—grandchildren, those generations are just not going to have oil, coal and gas to use. A: And what about things like global warming? Do you believe what scientists say? B: Umm, Well, I think it’s still uncertain, but it’s certainly another example of abuse. I think it’s a very serious problem that because we burn so much coal and oil we’ re destroying the ozone layer, I mean, I suppose it’s true to say that our children will inherit the consequences of our abuse but I think they will also inher- it the awareness that has come from that abuse. There’ s an awful lot of knowl- edge now about how we’ re destroying the atmosphere and the environment even if we continue to do it. But perhaps at least that knowledge will enable people to do something about it in future generations. The man is pessimistic about the future. 2. Depending on the reader’s answer. 108,UNIT SIX Phase 5: Conclusion I . Introduction: Section Five ' This is the conclusion of the interview. The interviewer will thank you, and give you the opportunity to ask questions if you wish. Responding to this section will probably not seem very difficult. The interview is now over. Tl .Requirements: ‘When the examiner has finished asking questions in Stage 4, the Speaking Test is al- most at an end. Now, in stage 5, he or she thanks you for talking and concludes the interview. * Thank the examiner for his or her time and say goodbye. If you have questions about the test itself, such as when the results will become available , talk to the person in charge of the day’ s proceedings. I .Dos and Don’ ts: Vv x 1. Relax and remain in control right up 1. Do not tell the examiner how re- until the moment you leave the in- lieved you are the test is over, and terview room. there is no need to comment on your performance! 2. Shake hands confidently if it is ap- 2. Do not overdo your friendliness at 109propriate and thank the exeminer for his or her time. » . Remember that last impressions, can be just as important as first impres- sions. Simply say: “Thank you very much for your time. I enjoyed talking with you. Goodbye.” or a similar concluding sentence or two of your own. IV .Useful Expressions: ‘Thank you for your time. It has been very helpful talking to you. ‘You have been very helpful. Goodbye. Nice talking to you. T enjoyed talking with you. Goodbye Hope to see you again. 110 the end. Be glad you did your best, smile and leave the room. 3. Do not ask the examiner for your Band Score. He or she is unable to give you that information.UNIT SEVEN Possible Questions From the Interviewer and Suggested Answers I .Possible Questions: What is your name? 2. Does your name have any special meaning? » What's the literal translation of your name? 4. Does your name affect your personality? 5. Where do you come from? 6. Where were you born? 7. Where is your hometown located? es . What kind of landscape surrounds your hometown? 9. What kinds of things grow in the fields in your hometown? 10. What is the main crop in your hometown? II. Could you tell me something about your hometown? 12. What are the main tourist attractions in Beijing? 13. What is the climate like in your hometown? M120. 21. 22. 23. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 3 . What is the character of the people like in the region where you live? . What are the differences in accent between the people of your hometown and Bei- jing? . . What is people’ s favorite food in your region? . How do you make Baozi? . How do you make dumplings? |. What is the biggest traditional festival in your country? ‘What do you do during the Spring Festival? Can you describe one of the main festivals celebrated in your country? Tell me something about the customs of your country. How long have you lived in Beijing? . What is the weather like in Beijing? How do you compare the climate in Beijing with that in your hometown? What place in Beijing do you like best? Why? What places in Beijing should a foreigner visit? Why? What are the major social problems in Beijing? How can they be solved? What is the biggest problem China faces? What places do you recommend a foreigner to your hometown and why? . Which city, in your opinion, is the best city in China? 1232. 33. 34, 36. 37. 38. 39. 40 41. 42. 43. 45. 46. 47. 48 49. Could you tell me something about your family? Have you any children? What is your child’ s name? Does his name have a meaning? |. What is your son’ s/daughter’s character like? ‘What does your wife/husband do? When did you get married? Describe your wedding, please. Was there any kind of ceremony? What did you/your wife wear on your wedding day? Where did you go for your honeymoon? Did you have to ask for permission from your parents before you got married? Could you tell me what happens at a wedding in your country? What kind of parent do you intend to be? . What is the population control situation like in China today? What is your opinion of family planning? Why do people in China traditionally want to have a son? What is the birth control situation in the cities? What is the situation in the rural areas in China? ‘What is the cause of the rising birth rate in the rural areas in China? 113°St 52. 53. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 61. 62. 63. 65. 66. |. What difficulties do Chinese farmers have concerning their old age? ‘What do you think needs to be done in order to relieve the farmers’ worries? What hope or fears do you have for your children? What sort of China would you like to see your children living in? ‘What sort of culture do you hope your child will grow up in? ‘Asa parent, do you plan to do anything different for your child than your parents did for you? How different is your life from the lives of your parents? Are you going to bring up your child differently? How? Are you going to bring up your child differently from the way you were brought up? How? Do you enjoy shopping? |. Who does most of the shopping in your family? Do you enjoy cooking? ‘Are you a good cook? ‘Who does most of the cooking in your family? ._ Is there sex discrimination in China? How do you sum up women’s conditions in China? ‘What are the causes of sex discrimination? 11467. 68. 69. 70. 7 72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 77. 7B. 79. 81. 82. 83. Is motherhood a career? Would you want your wife to continue with her career or to stay at home taking care of the household after you get married? Have you ever wished to be one of the opposite sex? Why (why not)? What would you do if your next-door neighbour were noisy nearly all the time? « Do you have a lot of friends? What does friendship mean to you? What kind of people do you make friends with? What do you think is the difference between friendship and love? What is your major? Why did you choose software development as your major? How do you like your major? When and where did you graduate? What qualifications have you obtained? Could you tell me something about your educational background? Which is the best university in your country? . Why do you think Qinghua is the best university in you country? Could you sum up your own study habits in a few points? What would be your criteria for a top student? Explain. What do you think of the practice of setting up key schools in primary and sec- ondary school education in China? 1584. Do you think the subjects you are studying today are relevant to present-day soci- ety? Why? 85. What do you think education should be? Should it be a process of learning what is useful for your future life or should it be simply learning for enjoyment? Why? 86. Where do you work? 87. What do you do? /What do you do for a living? 88. What is your line of business? 89. What is your job? What does your job involve? 90. What is your routine work? What do you do exactly every day? 91. How do you like your job? 92. Could you tell me something about your job? 93. What made you decide to become a teacher? 94. Do you have any hobbies? What are they? 95. What do you do in your spare time? 96. How do you spend your weekends? 97. What is your favorite sport? What are the rules? 98. What is the most popular sport in your country? 99. What are the sporting facilities like in your university Beijing? 100. What do you know about Qigong? Do you believe in Qigong? 116101. 102. 103. 105. 106. 108. 109. 110. I. 112. 113. 114 115. 116. 117. ‘How do you spend your free time? Do you often read newspapers? If not, why not? If you do, which ones do you read? What do you think of TV and newspapers? Do you often go to the cinema/theatre? Which cinema do you often go to? What kind of films do you like best? . What is your favourite pastime? Do you often watch TV? What is your favourite programme? What kind of music do you like best? Who is your favourite film star? Will you describe him/her to me? Do you enjoy travelling? Do you smoke? Do you think smoking is a problem that needs special attention and has to be solved? If so, why? What do you know about Britain/Canada/Australia, etc. ? What problems do you think you will have in Britain /Canada/Australia, etc? How will you overcome the difficulties/How will you deal with them? Do you think you will be able to cope with the English-demands of your intended study programme in Britain/Canada/Australia, etc? 417118. 119. 120. 121. 122, 123. 124. 125, 126. 127. 128. 129. 13 132. 133. What difficulties do you think you'll encounter in your studies in Britain /Cana- da/Australia? Can you imagine what life in Britain/Canada/Australia etc. would be like? How will you fare in Britain/Canada/Australia, ete. without your family? What do you want to study? /What do you intend to study? Which university are you going to study at? Why did you choose this university? Could you tell me why you choose to study at university of X? Where are you going to study in Britain/Canada/Australia, etc. and why? What are your plans in Britain/Canada/Australia, etc.? What is your research proposal all about? (in detail) What do you hope for most from your study abroad? What will your study abroad do for your career? Should you study more theory or do more practice? Give your reasons, please. |. How important are the roles of theory and practice in your discipline? . What kind of differences in the cultures are you expecting between China and the UK? How will your study in Britain benefit your work in China when you come back to China? ‘What do you intend to do after you finish studying? 11813: a 136. 137. 138. 139. 140. 14) 142. 143, 144, 145 147 148. 149. . What problem can you foresee in the future when you come back to China? Will there be any adjustment problems in your life when you come back to Chi- na? If so, what are they? Will you have to make any changes in your work/life when you come back to China? Do you think there will be a gap between your knowledge gained in China and the level of knowledge you are going to encounter on arrival? If so, what will it be? What do you think of the future of China if China keeps an open policy? ‘What do you regard as the most significant events in your country’s recent his- tory? Are there any special places you want to see in Canada? What are they? What do you especially want to do in Canada? How do you like your life in XX X University? What do you think of the training in the university? In what way do you think university training is helpful or falls short? What aspect of English do you find the most difficult? . Do you find American English easier to understand than British English? What sports are played in your country? Could you describe the traditional architecture of your country? What role does religion play in everyday life in your country? 119150. 151. 152. 153. 154. 155. 157. 158. 159. 160. 161. 162. ‘What do you think is the most important event in China’s recent history? How aware do you think people are nowadays about environmental issues? Could you-tell me why you chose to study at the University of X? What are sporting facilities like in your hometown? What role does tourism play in your country’s economy? How serious is unemployment in your country? In your opinion, what are the most serious problems associated with modern life? What do you think have been the most important changes in your field over the past 5 years? What are you going to major in? Are you going to do your own cooking when you are at university? Some local students feel that overseas students get preferential treatment, What is your opinion? Do you think you will have any difficulties with your English when you study abroad? What do you think are the main causes of road accidents? . How do you think road accidents can be prevented? . Do you think the government is doing enough to prevent road accidents? . What do you see yourself doing in five years” time?166. 167. 168. 169. 170. 171, 173. 174, 175, 176. 177. 178. 179. 180. What are your goals in life? How do you think China's membership in WTO will benefit China? Do you think drug-trafficking is a serious problem in China? What are the conse- quences? ‘What do you think of the unemployment problem in China? How do you think the unemployment problem could be solved? What's your opinion of the gap between rich and poor? . How do you understand “knowledge economy”? What is the housing situation /condition like in your city? What do you think are the main consequences of smuggling? What do you think is the most serious problem in China? Global warming has become a popular topic nowadays. What do you know about it? How do you think global warming can be prevented? How do you anticipate the development of Information Technology? What’ s your view on the increasing divorce rate in China? What does happiness mean to you? II .Suggested Answers: 1. What is sour name? 121My family name is Huang, and my given name is Qi Guang. But most people call me Xiao Huang. 2. Does your name have any special meaning? a. Yes. My family name “Huang” means yellow. My given name has two parts. The first part “ ” means something like enlightenment or the start. The sec- ond part “Guang” means light. It was given to me by my grandfather. Actual- ly, all the boys in my generation have the same “Qi” part in their names. b. The first part of my name means “bright”—as i light. The second part means “true” or “truth”. Taken together, my name meens“Bright Truth”. My grandmother gave it to me. 3. What’ s the literal translation of your name? Well, Huang literally translates as “yellow”, and “Qi” means “enlightened or the start”. “Guang” literally means “light or bright”. So, taken together, my given name means something like “the beginning of- light” or “being enlightened with light” or something to that effect. 4. Does your name affect your personality? a. In some ways, yes. Because my name means being enlightened with light, I try to be more enlightened, which means that I try to be very open-minded about things. It may sound kind of strange, but I am trying to live up to the name that my grandfather gave me. I suppose that as I get older, 1"ll find oth- er ways to do that. b. Mmm. ...yes, I think it does, at least for me it has. My name means “Bright Truth”, so I’ ve always tried to be truthful. I kind of think that I need to live up to my name. I mean, it’s not like I think about it all the time, but it is im- portant to me. 5. Where do you come from? a. I was born in Xi'an, which is one of the major cities in China. It used to be a capital city at one point in China's history. 12210 i. b. I come from Shanghai, but I was born in Xi’ an. My parents moved to Shang- hai when I was just 4 years old, so I really don’t know much about Xian, a- Part from occasional summer visits to see some good friends of the family. In fact, I don’t have any family at all living in Xi’ an. « Where were you born? I was born in Xi'an, which is in the centre of China. It’s a famous historic city, and is also well known by tourists who travel the Silk Road. « Where is your hometown located? Xi’ an is located in Shanxi province, which is in central China. + What kind of landscape surrounds your hometown? Xi’ an is mountains, the Qinling Mountains to the south. surrounded by plains, and is bordered by a plateau to the north and - What kind of things grow in the fields in your hometown? Quite a few things: cotton, maize, wheat, vegetables, pomegranates, and per- simmons. But actually, Xi’an isn’t famous for its produce. It’s more of a textile and manufacturing centre. What is the main crop in your hometown? We have several types of crop which are grown in my hometown. They all are more or less equally important. We grow mostly cotton, maize, and wheat. Could you tell me something about your hometown? a. Hmm. . . well, the population is about 6 million. It’s famous for its historic sites, especially for the Terracotta Warriors. Xi’ an was named the capital of China several times over across many dynasties. Also, Xi’ an is the beginning of the famous Silk Road, which was important in ancient times. The weather 123,ee 13. 14. 15. is extremely hot in the summer, about 40 degrees Celsius, and fairly cold in the winter, about 14 degrees below zero. b. Okay. Well, first of all, my hometown is “X”. I was born in the city, but moved to the outskirts of town when I was small. “X” is a fairly large city— a pretty important economic centre actually. It has a population of 3 million. It’s pretty flat, and is situated right on a large lake. What are the main tourist attractions in Beijing? There’ s the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Beijing has quite a lot of other famous sites as well. What is the climate like in your hometown? a. It's generally very hot in the summer, like about 40 degrees Celsius. In win- ters, it’s cold—about minus 14 degrees Celsius. The spring and autumn are both mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging around 12 to 25 degrees Celsius. Oh, and summer time is extremely humid as well b. There are four seasons. Winter is cold and snowy; spring is short and rainys summer is hot and humid; and autumn is beautiful. What is the character of the people like in the region where you live? a. They are usually very friendly and somewhat conservative. If you were to vis- it X’an, you’ d soon notice that the people still retain many ancient customs and traditions, which is what I mean by conservative. You'd also notice that people there are very helpful. If you ask someone for directions, they will try to help you out, or find someone else who can help you. b. It’s a bit hard to say. I guess people are generally pretty friendly and helpful Some people say that we are quick tempered but don’t hold many grudges. Other than that, there’s not much difference between us and other Chinese. What are the differences in accent between the people of your hometown and Beijing? 124. In (name of hometown), we pronounce (word) like hometown’ s pronuncia- tion), but in Beijing, they say (Beijing’s pronunciation). ‘There are quite a few differences between my hometown dialect and Beijing’s. I can’t even begin to describe them. When I speak in my local di- o alect, people in Beijing have no idea what I'm saying. . Well, you know Beijing’ s usually have an “errr"added to a lot of words. We don’t do that in my hometown. Also, some of the tones are different, and there’ s slight differences in pronunciation. In Beijing, people might say “shi” meaning “ten”, but in my hometown, we say “si”. Those are most of the main differences. d. In my hometown, if we want to say “a little”, we say “yi dian dian”. But in Beijing, they say “yi diar”. The accent in Beijing has a very strong “rrr” sound to the end of words. We don’t have that at all in my hometown. And, even | found it hard to get used to at first when I came to Beijing. . What is people’ s favorite food in your region? Definitely jiaozi or dumplings. My province is famous for its vinegar, which is used when we eat dumplings. . How do you make Baozi? Well let me just first say that I’m not an expert, but I can tell you generally how it's done. There are two parts—the filling and the dough. You can make the filling in many different ways—with meat or vegetables or both. Add cil, spices, and soya sauce. To make dough, mix flour, yeast and water together. Set it a- side until the dough rises. Once it’s risen, roll out small pieces of dough. Place the filling inside and pinch it closed. Then steam it for 15 minutes. That's it. . How do you make dumplings? First, you mix water and flour together to make the dough. Cover it and set it a- side. Next, make the filling by mixing meat and/or vegetables with spices, oil, ginger, and soya sauce. Knead the dough until it is smooth. Break off small pieces and roll them thin. Take a small amount of filling and place it in the cen- tre of the wrapper. Then, pinch the wrapper edges together. Meanwhile, boil 2 125large pot of water. When the water is at a full boil, put the jiaozi or dumplings in. When it comes to a boil again, pour in a cup of cold water. Do this three times. Then, your jiaozi are cooked and ready to eat. 19. What is the biggest traditional festival in your country? Definitely the Spring Festival. I suppose it’s somewhat like Christmas is in western countries. Spring Festival is the only time when all families gather to- gether and stores and business are closed for several days. 20. What do you do during the Spring Festival? 1 usually go back to my hometown and spend a week in my parents’ home. We eat delicious food, visit family and friends, and watch TV. 1 also like to try and contact my high school friends and see how they’ re doing and what they’ re up to. We give each other presents and we buy ourselves new clothes to wear for the new year. 21. Can you describe one of the main festivals celebrated in your country? National Day, which is on October Ist, is a big holiday. We get three days off and there are a lot of fireworks displays. There are large flower pictures and oth- cer types of flowers decorating the city, and some of the larger cities hold pa- rades. 22. Tell me something about the customs of your country. China has @ great many customs. Let me tell you something about friendship. Really good friends will always help each other. T can go to a friend’ s home any time of the day, and he will drop what he is doing and welcome me. It might sound strange to you, because I know that in the West, people usually schedule appointments with each other in advance. But, our friendships in China are very strong and deep, and it would be unheard of to not drop everything and invite a friend in. 23. How long have you lived in Beijing? 12624. 26. 27. 28. - How do you compare the climate in Beijing with that in your hometown? Almost 4 years now. | first came to Beijing in July 1996. It's kind of surprising that I’ve already lived here for 4 years. T wasn’t planning on staying for a long time, but then I got a good job in a joint-venture company. What is the weather like in Beijing? ‘There are four seasons. Winter is cold, dry and windy, with a bit of snow. Spring is short and wet. Summer is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching to.as the high as 30 degrees. It’s pretty miserable in the summer unless you have air conditioning. Fall is probably the best season—it" s very comfortable—not windy, nor cold, nor humid. It’s about the same, except that we get a lot more snow in my hometown than we get in Beijing. I suppose it has something to do with the geography of the two cities. What place in Beijing do you like best? Why? I like the Temple of Heaven best because it’s very beautiful. The park around it is very spacious and is filled with large gingko trees and some very old trees. Al- so, in the early morning, it’s very peaceful. The older generation are practicing their Tai Ji, while the younger children are running around and playing. What places in Beijing should a foreigner visi Why? I would recommend the Great Wall, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and the Forbidden City. Those are the most famous places in the city. Of course, there are many other places as well that have less historic significance, but those four places are really worth seeing. What are the major social problems in Beijing? How can they be solved? There are a lot of people who have recently been laid off work. They have little income and many have a family to support. I think they should be given a chance 12729. 33. to get another job—maybe by giving them more training or something like that. Pethaps if the government were to provide a short-term vocational training course to people who have been laid off. .. that would help with the unemploy- ment problem. What is the biggest problem China faces? Overpopulation. Even though China has the one-child policy, it still has a huge population. The government wants to provide food and education for everyone, but they haven’ t yet reached their goal. A lot of China’ s problems stem from overpopulation. What places do you recommend a foreigner to visit in your hometown and why? I'm from Xian. | think the Terrarcotta Warriors is really worth s It is the tomb of Qinshihuang, the first emperor of antient China as a unified country. ‘There are thousands of Terracotta soldiers burried together with the emperor’ s body in the tomb. It looks really magnificent. . Which city, in your opinion , is the best city in China? Beijing, because it’s the capital of China and has a very rich culture. In addi- tion, Beijing is more beautiful than the other cities, because it’s the showcase of China. A lot of money has been invested in Beijing and it is a very interesting place to visit. - Could you tell me something about your family? I have 3 brothers and no sisters. Both of my parents are still alive, and are still working. My grandparents on my father’s side are both alive too, though my mother 's parents have already passed away. I am also married. . . | got married 2 years ago. Have you any children? a. Yes, a son. He's 2 years old now and he’s very active. My mother-in-law 12837. takes care of him during the day. b. No, not yet. But, I do hope to have more than one child some day. . What is your child’ s name? Does his/her name have a meaning? His name is Zhang Wei Jun. It means something like being handsome forever. | chose this name for my son because I thought he was the most beautiful baby I had ever seen. So, I wanted to remember his handsome features in his name. . What is your son’ s ‘daughter’ s character like? ‘At first, he seems to be quite shy. But, once he gets to know you, you’ Il find he’s very talkative and even a bit bossy. He likes to win and be first at every- thing, but he will allow other children to take their tums too. He's very funny and loves to make all sorts of word games with me. . What does your wife/husband do? My husband is a teacher. He’s been working in Beijing Language and Culture University ever since he graduated from university. I think he really loves teach- ing, and he’ Il probably stay in this profession forever, even though it’s not @ very lucrative job. When did you get married? On February 14th, 1994. We chose to get married on Valentine’ s Day because we thought it would be very romantic. Also, it was about 2 years before, on Valentine’ s Day when we first met. . Describe your wedding, please. Was there any kind of ceremony? It was a small wedding. Just our family and close friends came, We didn’t have any special ceremony, just a banquet in the evening to celebrate our wedding. I was very tired during the banquet because we had to constantly take care of our friends. We had to light each of their cigarettes, pour their drinks and just gen- erally serve them. They also played tricks on us to try to get us to kiss or hug 129each other. It was a lot of fun, but I just remember being extremely tired when. it was all over. 39. What did you/your wife wear on your wedding day? a. She wore a pink wedding dress—western style, then changed into a red tradi- tional Chinese dress. She also had fresh flowers in her hair and wore a pink veil over her head. When she changed into the red dress, she also changed her hairstyle and shoes. b. He wore a new navy blue suit with a white shirt and bow tie. Even his shoes were brand new. He still has the suit that he wore on our wedding day, and takes it out only for special occasions. 40. Where did you go for your honeymoon? We went to Thailand. It’s a country that I’ve always heard about and had been eager to visit. I must say that I enjoyed it very much. The Thai people are ex- tremely hospitable, and everything in Thailand is very cheap. . . even cheaper than in China! It was fun to explore a new country with my new husband. 41. Did you have to ask for permission from your parents before you got married’? . No, in fact my parents didn’t even know I had gotten married until after the fact. I suppose I should have asked them for permission zhead of time, but they always let me do whatever I want to do, so I thought they wouldn’ t mind if I got married. Now that I think about it, I really should have asked them. s Yes. Both my fiancé and I had to ask our parents for their permission. It was quite awkward at first, because our parents didn’t know each other and they each had many questions to ask about my fiancés family. I hope my fiancé didn’t feel uncomfortable when my parents were grilling me about his family. But after an hour or so, they felt quite happy about our engagement, and gave us their blessings to be married. 42. Could you tell me what happens at a wedding in your country?43. 44. 45. Well, It varies from place to place. But usually a wedding begins early in the morning. The bridegroom, together with some of his relatives and friends has to pick up the bride and her family from her home by beautifully decorated cars. ‘Then the two families and friends will usually have a banquet together. The bride and bridgroom have to bow to their parents, the god and to each other, then they have to serve the people with food, drinks, cigarettes and candies while some young people may try to play tricks on them. the whole thing will come to an end in the afternoon. What kind of parent do you intend to be? I want to have a good relationship with my child. I have seen so many kids who don’t really know their own parents, and I don"t want to end up like that. I do plan to be strict, but loving. I want my child to always feel comfortable to ap- proach me, whether they’ ve been good or bad. It's pretty easy to tell you what kind of parent I want to be, but when I actually become a parent, I’m sure I’ have to revise my ideals a bit. What is the population control situation like in China today? It’s better than before. At least things are pretty much under control, but there are still a lot of people in China. I think everyone accepts the fact that they can only have one child. Some of my friends are even thinking of not having any children at all. Most of them, though, are delaying having children, because they’ re focusing more on their careers right now. What is your opinion of family planning? a. T agree with China’s one-child policy. I think that China needs to control the population right now. How else can we make China strong and provide e- nough food and education for all the people? Perhaps in the future when our country is more developed, we can allow people to have more children. But for now, the government’ policy on family planning is necessary. b. I disagree with the one-child policy. I think people should be allowed to have as many children as they want. There are a lot of families who need more than one child in order to take care of their farmlands. The peasants are the 131cones who are suffering the most, because in the past, they used to be able to have more than one child to help with the work. In the city, many families only want to have one child anyways. I do hope that this policy will change very soon, because it’s not a fair policy. 46. Why do people in China traditionally want to have a son? Sons are preferred because they carry the family name. Also, when they marry, their wife joins the family. This means that the parents gain a daughter-in-law. But when a daughter marries, she joins her husband’ s family. In the country- side, sons can also help out more on the family’s farm, just because they’ re stronger and have more endurance. 47. What is the birth control situation in the cities? It’s much stricter than in the countryside. There is a large financial penalty for couples who have more than one child. It’s also probably easier for the govern- ment to monitor how many children are born into each family in the city than in the countryside, just because everyone lives so much closer together. 48. What is the situation in the rural areas? It’s not so easy to monitor and control the population growth in the countryside than in the city, because the country side is so widespread. Besides, some farm- ers still give birth to more than one child in spite of the penalty from the govern- ment because they need sons to help with farmwork and to take care of them when they grow old 49. What is the cause of the rising birth rate in the rural areas in China? Well, I think there are mainly three causes. First of all in the countryside, especially in underdeveloped areas where farm- work is done mainly with manual labour, people want to have as many children as pessible to help out in the field. 132uw Si. 52. 53. Another reason is that many farmers are still quite concervative and prefer to have a son to carry on their family names. Besides, there is no retirement insurance in the rural areas, so farmers need more than one child to support them when they are too old to work. « What difficulties do Chinese farmers have concerning their old age? They have no pension and therefore must rely on their families to support them. If they have a son, by tradition, he must take care of his parents. But, if it’s a daughter, she leaves to join her husband’ s family, and there is no one left to provide for the parents in their old age. It's really a terrible situation for farm- ers, because they work so hard all their lives, and if they don’t have a son, they have no security when they get old. What do you think needs to be done to relieve the farmers’ worries? Either he should be allowed to have a son, or the government should provide some sort of pension for farmers. I’ ve heard of pension schemes where the gov- ernment helps farmers to put away some money each year so that they will have money when they retire. In addition, if the government were to provide some money to retired farmers each month, this would ease the burden considerably. What hopes or fears do you have for your children? T hope my child will go to university, find a good job, and have a family. But, children have a very tough life these days. They must study all the time just to have a chance to go to university. They have very little time to play and enjoy being a child. I really fear that my child will be old before his/her time. Then, what's the point of having a child after all? What sort of China would you like to see your children living in? A country where there is equality and more opportunities for education, a more prosperous lifestyle, and a stronger country. I want my child not to have to strive like a madman to get what most people can have in other countries. But on 133the other hand, I want my child to know the value of hard work. I hope China will have good relations with other countries too by the time my children are grown up. 54. What sort of culture do you hope your child will grow up in? T hope my child will still know about China’s ancient culture and traditions, but also have a chance to combine these with modem society. I don’ t want him to just accept everything that is “western” and throw away everything that is “Chi- nese”. Certainly there are people who just think “western” things are better than “Chinese” things. I want my child to be proud of his Chinese heritage, but also be able to choose the best from the West and the best from the East. 55. Asa parent, do you plan to do anything different for your child than your parents did for you? a. No. In fact, my parents were really very good. They praised me and hugged me often. I remember the stories they taught me and the way they spent time with me. I do hope to be the same kind of good parent to my child, as my parents were to me. b. Yes. I want to hug and praise them more. My parents rarely complimented me about anything, though I know they love me very much. They just worked hard and provided for my physical needs, but they never, ever asked me about how I was feeling and things like that. T wish T could have commu- nicated more openly with them. 56. How different is your life from the lives of your parents? It’s very different. I have had many more opportunities and a much more com- fortable life than they had. I remember my father telling me stories about having just one egg to eat each week, and that was the highlight of his week. I can’t really imagine life like that, so I'm grateful that I have a better life than my par- ents did. I appreciate their hard work to get us to this point in our lives. 57. Are you going to bring up your child differently? 058. 59. 60. 61. I will let my child choose his own path in life. I will not be as strict with him as my parents were with me. At the same time. I'll give him/her my advice and suggestions. I'll try to be a guide instead of an instructor. Asa parent, do you plan to do anything different for your child than your parents did for you? T would like to bring up my child differently from the way I was brought up be- cause I want him/her to have better chances in life. I want him/her to develop his/her imagination, creativity, persistence and independence. Do you enjoy shopping? . Yes! I spend most of my weekends shopping. Even if it’s just buying some- thing small, I love to walk around and see what’ on sale and what’ avail- able. My husband thinks I’m crazy about shopping, and he always tells me that I’m spending too much money. So, it’s a bit of an tween my husband and me right now. . No, not at all. I really can’t stand it. Whenever my wife wants to go shop- ping, I just hand her some money and tell her to have a good time. I°d rather stay at home and just relax than fight the crowds in a busy shopping mall. also hate just standing around and waiting for my wife to decide what to buy. Tt seems she takes an eternity to make a simple decision. sue of conflict be- s Who does most of the shopping in your family? Well, I do most of the grocery shopping because there’s a market very clase to my work. It’s very convenient for me to pick up milk or eggs or whatever on my way home from work. But, my wife also enjoys shopping very much. She usual- ly does a lot of the clothes shopping for my son and me. Do you enjoy cooking? a. Yes, very much. I can cook many different styles of dishes—from Sichuan style to Peking duck. My husband says that I’ m really a very good cook, and he always talks about opening a restaurant one day, and hiring me as his chief 135cook. b. No. I really Hate cooking. I just don’t like to spend much time on cooking, 0 I usually eat in the cafeteria. I know the foods not very tasty in the cafe- teria, but I don’t have enough money to eat out in a restaurant all the time, and I’m too lazy and unmotivated to cook for myself 62. Are you a good cook? a. Yes. [ learnad everything from my mother who was really famous in our hometown for her cooking. I suppose she learned how to cook from her moth- er as well. [ think that’s how I won my husbands heart, by being such a good cook. He really does appreciate good food, and I enjoy cooking for him. b. No. I'ma terrible cook. No one ever taught me how to cook. I barely know how to boil an egg. Well, I do know how to make instant noodles, but it’s just a matter of pouring boiling water on them and waiting for a bit. I don’t like cooking either, but I do like eating. I suppose I’Il have to marry someone who is a goon cook. 63. Who does most of the coaking in your family? My husband does most of the cooking. For some reason, he finds cooking more enjoyable than I do. He also gets home from work earlier than me, so he just starts cooking dinner. By the time I get home, dinner’ s almost ready. I do cook meals on the weekend, but most of the time, it’s my husband who cooks. « Is there sex discrimination in China? a. Yes, I think there is. I’ ve heard of female students who have recently gradu- ated from university having a hard time finding employment. Some employers even blatantly told the female applicants that they were just looking to hire males. Also, once a woman is working in a company, there’s only so high she can move before she reaches what they call a “glass ceiling”. This means that she cannot move to higher management positions, because there is a bar- rier. Usually equally qualified men don’t hit that same barrier. . No, not that I know of. In fact, I haven't encountered any sex discrimina- tion myself. [ think China treats men and women equally. > 13665. How do you sum up women’ s conditions in China? ‘Women have almost equal opportunity with men. But in the count le, women aren’t treated very well still. In the city, educated women have excellent oppor- tunities to get good jobs and move up the career ladder. But women in the coun- tryside are treated almost like property. The less educated the woman or her husband is, the more likely it is that she will not be treated well. 66. What are the causes of sex discrimination in China? I think there are three reasons for sex discrimination in China. One reason is the traditional concept of men playing the main role in family and in society. Second- ly men bear the biggest burden of labour in the countryside. And thirdly, women are considered more dispensable than men in an economic recession. 67. Is motherhood a career? . Not in China. Most mothers must return to work 6 months to a year after they have a child. So, they cannot stay at home full time to take care of their child. At most, it’s a part-time job, which is definitely underpaid. . .T mean, it’s not paid at all! Yes, but it’s not common in China to be a mother/housewife. If your hus- band is working in a good company and has a high salary, then you could choose to stay at home and take care of your child if you want to. I think very few women actually choose this option, because it really goes against the norm. z 68. Would you want sour wife to continue with her career or stay at home taking care of the household after you get married? If have a good job, my wife can do whatever she wants. I think as long as she’s happy, that’s the main thing. If she wants to work, then I don’t mind helping out more at home. If she is happier at home, then Ill be very happy to return to a nice dinner and a beautiful home from work. 69. Have you ever wished to be one of the opposite sex? Why or why not? 13770. 71. a. No, because I’m perfectly happy being female. I think if you wish to be the opposite sex, you’ re probably a bit mixed up. I ve heard of people getting sex-change operations because they really felt they were the opposite sex, even though their anatomy proved otherwise. b. Once in a while, in certain situations I think it would be easier to be male. But, those times are few and far between. Like when I’m trying to carry something very heavy, I wish I was strong like a man. Or when I’m facing sex discrimination, I think, “If I were a man, I wouldn't be treated this way.” But really, I’m very happy to be female overall. What would you do if your next-door neighbour were noisy nearly all the time? a. I'd approach him/her in a friendly way and ask him/her if he/she could be a bit moré quiet. At first, I think it’s important to give him/her the benefit of the doubt, and explain that the noise was bothering us. Perhaps he/she didn’t really know that he/she was so noisy. . I probably wouldn’ t do anything. I’m not the kind of person who likes to o confront others. I'd probably just put my pillow over my head at night and try to sleep. I might even hope that my other neighbours would talk to the noisy neighbour instead of me. Do you have a lot of friends’? It depends what you mean by “a lot”... do have one or two very close friends, which is all that I need. [don’t have any trouble making friends, and I do have many good friends and acquaintances. But, really I feel most close to just one or two friends. ~ What does friendship mean to you? What kind of people do you make friends with? Friendship is extremely important to me. It’s like being brothers or sisters, but even more than that. I mean, I would do nearly anything for my friend, and I'd expect that he’d do the same for me. If he didn’t help me when I was in need, then I would not consider him a good friend. I have a lot of different kinds of friends. Some are loud, others are shy. There’s not really just one type of 13873. 74. 75. 76. friends that I am friend with. 1 prefer having a real variety of friends. What do you think is the difference between friendship and love? Friendship is a kind of loyalty love. It’s strong and devoted, but it doesn’t have the same feeling as love. When you fall in love with someone, there”s this ex- citement, this chemistry, this feeling in the air that makes you feel really good. Friendship can provide you with some of that feeling, but not the depth nor heights of it. Love is stronger and more intense than friendship. What is your major? T majored in Accounting, which is part of the School of Business at my universi- ty. I mainly studied international accounting system in foreign trade, to be more specific. Why did you choose software development as your major? Because I’ ve always enjoyed working with computers and I was always good at math and logic. I was fortunate to have a computer in my home when [ was in high school, and I spent quite a lot of time just playing around on the computer. My parents bought me all sorts of books on computer programming, and I just started to read them and pick up the ideas in them. How do you like your major? a. T enjoy it very much. I didn’t know very much about it before I studied it, but I’m glad I chose it because it suits me a lot. My father actually suggested that I major in Accounting, because he thought that I would enjoy it. b. Tdon’t like it at all. I wish I could have chosen a different one, but it’s next to impossible to change majors. I just hope that when I get a job, T won’ t have to do a lot of work in my major. - When and where did you graduate? What qualifications have you obtained? I graduated in 1995 from Beijing Science and Technology University. I have a 139Bachelor’ s degree in Civil Engineering, and I’m a licensed Professional Engineer in China. 78. Could you tell me something about your educational background? I went to Beijing University and studied Civil Engineering. I graduated with a Bachelor’ s degree in 1992. Then, I worked for 3 years in a factory before I went back to school and continued my studies at Beijing Polytechnic University, where I just graduated last year with a Master’ s degree in Business. 79. Which is the best university in your country? Qinghua University is probably the best, although there are also others which are considered to be top notch. Still, Qinghua has the best international reputa- tion, so I think most people would say it’s the best. 80. Why do you think Qinghua is the best university in you country? 8. 82. Because it is one of the leading centres of scientific research, not only in China but around the world. Many of the professors are doing research projects with professors in other countries, and are at the cutting edge of new technology. Al- s0, it is one of the most difficult universities to get into. Because it is one of the leading centres of scientific research, not only in China but around the world. It is also the most difficult university to get into. Could you sum up your study habits in a few points? am a very organized and highly motivated student. I study very hard, and like to constantly review my lecture notes and textbooks. After each class, I re-read all my notes and cross-reference them with the textbook. When I encounter something I’m not sure of, I make a point of finding the professor and asking them for further explanation. Also, I have a very good memory. Once I learn something, I remember it for a very long time. What would be your criteria for a top student? Explain. 14083. I think it’s important for a top student to be very intelligent, hardworking, and motivated to succeed. Without these three key factors, a student will not achieve his/her full potential. Also, the very best student must be more intelligent, more hardworking and even more motivated to succeed than his peers. What do you think of the practice of setting up key schools in primary and sec- ondary school education in China? a. I think it’s a good system because it helps the brighter students receive the e- ducational challenges they need. When the students are streamed by ability level, it allows the schools to pick up the pace of instruction and the bright students never feel bored in school. . I think it’s an old system that needs changing. Not every intelligent student is accepted to a key school, even if they are academically able. Also, intelli- gent students shouldn’ t be segregated. They need to learn to deal with all kinds of other students. Segregating bright students doesn’t provide them with the skills they need to communicate and interact with others, which is what they’Il need to do once they start working, c Do you think the subjects you are studying today are relevant to present-day soci- ety? Why? Most of them are relevant, but some, like History and Politics, are not. I think that most of what I’m currently studying will be useful some time in the future. It’s true that there have been many changes in China, and there will be many changes to come. So, I suppose it’s not possible that alll my subjects will be rele- vant in the near future. Even so, I know that I’m learning a lot of good princi- ples that will be important no matter what changes may occur. . What do you think education should be? Should it be a process of learning what is useful for your future life or should it be simply learning for enjoyment? Why? Education should really be a time where you learn new ways of thinking and are challenged to go beyond what you know. But if I were to choose between learn- ing useful things versus learning for enjoyment, I would definitely choose learn- 4187, 88. 89. J ing for enjoyment. I don’t mean just learning when I feel like it. Rather, I meen studying things that interest me. If I am truly interested in a subject, [ will delve into the material in greater depth and detail. « Where do you work? I work in the head office of Motorola. It’s near the Lufthansa Centre, by the third ring road and Liangmahe road in Beijing. I' ve been there since 1985. What do you do? /What do you do for a living? T'man engineer. But my day-to-day work involves quite a lot of management. In fact, I’m in charge of the Beijing branch of Motorola, and have a dozen or so engineers working under me to handle the technical side of the work. What is your line of business? I'm in the teaching business. I'm a professor in the Mathematics Department at Renmin University. I’ve been there for 9 years already. What is your job? What does your job involve? I'ma sales manager. I’m in charge of overseeing sales operations for all of northern China, including Beijing. I have about 40 employees under me who are the regional sales representatives. . What is your routine work? What do you do exactly every day? Most of the time, I sit behind a desk and answer phone calls. It’s not a very ac- tive job, but I do enjoy it most of the time, except when I get a phone call from a very angry customer. Sometimes, they just want to shout at someone, and be- cause I’m the first one to answer the phone, I get the full vent of their anger. ‘How do you like your job? T enjoy it very much. It does have its ups and downs, but really it’s quite a good 14293. 94. 95. job. I enjoy the people I work with too, which really can make or break a job. We work very well together and can trust each other to do our fair share. Could you tell me something about your job? / Your teaching method? Well, I'm a French teacher. I teach undergraduate students who are majoring in French. I've been working for about 10 years already, teaching a whole variety of courses over the past 10 years. I suppose my teaching method is rather uncon- ventional. I like to use French in the classroom as the medium of instruction. Many professors still prefer to teach the second language while speaking Chinese. I really feel that students need to be challenged from the very start to overcome their insecurities of speaking a different language. What made you decide to become a teacher? I didn’t really plan to be a teacher at first, but my parents encouraged me to go into teaching. At first I really disliked it immensely. I lacked confidence and felt very insecure standing in front of a room full of students. Somehow, I made it through the first term, and managed a bit better the second. After that, I felt that I had made an impact on some of my students, and when they came to thank me for teaching them, I really was deeply touched. From that point on, I decided to work harder at preparing my classes so that I could teach them well. The following year went really well. I enjoyed my classes and the challenges of teaching. That's when I knew that teaching was the right profession for me. Do you have any hobbies? I'm a big basketball fan, even though I’m not very good at playing basketball myself. I love to watch the NBA on TV whenever I get a chance. I play ping pong and volleyball whenever I can. I also enjoy listening to music and seeing new films. What do you do in your spare time? I like to play on the computer and surf the internet. Once I get on the internet, I find that time really passes very quickly. Before I know it, several hours have 143passed and my back and neck are aching. I also like to go for walks and read novels on ancient Chinese history. 96. How do you spend your weekends? T usually sleep in on Saturday morning if I can, study in the afternoon in the li- brary, and go out with friends in the evening. On Sundays, I like to go shopping and just spend time walking around outside, if the weather is nice. If I don’t have much money, I still like to go window shopping and I almost get as much pleasure out of that! 97. What is your favorite sport? What are the rules? I like football most. The rules are basically this: There are two teams of eleven players. Each team tries to kick the ball into the other team’s goal. You can’t hit the ball with your hands, unless you’ re the goalkeeper. Also, football is a non-contact sport, so if you tackle an opposing player, you will be given a wamn- ing, and you might even be kicked out of the game if you persist. 98. What is the most popular sport in your country? I'd have to say that football is really the most popular sport in China. There are literally millions of crazy football fans. Whenever there is a match on TV be- tween China and another country, you can hear loud cheers and shouts all around the city, whenever China scores a goal, and loud groans and moans when the other country scores. 99. What are the sporting facilities like in your university /Beijing? a. At my university, we have mostly outdoor facilities—a track, football field, volleyball and badminton courts, and ping pong tables. The university is just now building a new sports facility, but I’m not really sure what it’s going to be. I think there will probably be a weight room and maybe even a swimming b. Beijing has a lot of modern indoor facilities offering bowling, tennis, swim- ming, and other things. But, it’s too expensive for most Chinese, and you101. 102. 103. have to belong to the club in order to use the facilities. What do you know about Qigong? Do you believe in Qigong? T don’ t believe in Qigong really, but I think it’s a good way to exercise. I have seen many people practising Qigong outside. It looks something like Taiji, but it seems a bit more intense. It is said that Qigong can fully cultivate one” s physical and mental potential and may even help to cure diseases. How do you spend your free time? T attend training courses in the evenings. However, as a mother, I also take my son somewhere at the weekend. For example, I may drive to the suburbs or the countryside around Beijing and go fishing, swimming and mountain climb- life very much. ing. 1 enjoy famil Do you often read newspapers? If not, why not? If you do, which ones do you read? Yes, I like to read the 21st Century and the China Daily. I usually read as much as I have time for, which sometimes is quite a lot. Both of these newspa- pers are in English, and | find that it really is a good way:for me to practise my English. What do you think of TV and newspapers? I like knowing what"s going on, so TV and newspapers are good way for me to know what’s happening. I can’t say that I completely believe everything that 1 see on TV or read in the newspapers, but I do find them very interesting and entertaining. I’m kind of an information junkie, so I just like to know current things. « Do you often go to the cinema /theatre? a. Yes. On Friday nights, I usually go and watch whatever’ s playing. It’s kind of a family tradition that [ started when my son was young. 145105. 107. 108. 146 b. No. I'm not really interested in the theatre. I'd much rather read newspa- pers and watch TV than pay for the theatre. Which cinema do you often go to? There's a cinema just around the comer from my home. It’s called the Poly Plaza Cinema. It’s probably one of the largest cinemas in Beijing, so they al- ways play the most modern films. And, the ticket price i i able. . What kind of films do you like best? I definitely like comedy best. I don’t see why I should pay money to be sad or scared, so I really don’t like the tear-jerker type of films nor horror films at all. T don’t mind adventure-type films, just as long as they don’t become horror films. What is your favourite pastime? a. I'm kind of an indoor type of person, so I guess [ like reading most. 1’ m in- tereted in reading all kinds of books and newspaper or magazine articles, es- pecially those on current issues. I just want to be informed of what’ s going on in the world. I'm kind of an outdoor type. I like to go swimming or play badminton with my family or friends during weekends or holidays. If I have a longer vaca- tion, I usually travel to farther-away places all over the country. s Do you often watch TV? What is your favourite programme? a. No, I hardly watch TV at all. In fact, I don’t find most programmes inter- esting to me. I think it’s just a waste of time watching TV. b. Yes, I like watching the news. But, I don’t really watch many other shows ‘on TV besides the news. I just don’t have time to see what’ s on each week. Some TV shows are done in several parts. If you miss one or two episodes, you' re really lost. So, because I don’t watch TV that regularly, really find that it’s hard to follow a series when I miss several episodes. So,109 110. i. 12. T don’t watch them What kind of music do you like best’? Definitely classical music. I have nearly every famous classical work ever recorded. I could sit for hours in a room with my stereo turned up, just listen- ing to classical music. I have also attended several concerts here in Beijing, where world-famous orchestras have come to play the great works of Mozart or Beethoven or Chopin or other composers. Who is your favourite film star? Will you describe him/her to me? 1 like Leonardo di Caprio. I first saw him when he starred in Titanic, and after that I was head over heels in love with him. He’ s very handsome... . blonde hair, blue eyes. He has this look about him that makes him seem very sad, but at the same time hopeful. I have his posters all over my room at home. Do you enjoy travelling? Yes, very much. I've been to most of the major cities in China, and I ve also travelled to Thailand and Singapore. I think that the more I travel, the more I want to travel. It’s so interesting to see how other people live, and it helps me to have a better understanding for other people. It’s really an amazing way to learn about different cultures—much more exciting and longer lasting than just reading about it in a textbook. Do you smoke? a. Yes. I’ve had this bad habit ever since I was in university. My father also smokes a lot too, so I suppose I learned it from him. In China, it’s impor- tant to smoke because it’s a social custom. If I offer a cigarette to a stranger, it’s a gesture of friendship and it smooths the way for me to get to know that person better. I know it’s bad for my health, but right now [ think smoking is alright for me. b. No. I did try a cigarette once when I was in university, but I got so sick that I never wanted to try it again. Most of my friends smoke, though, and 147113. 114. MS 116. 148, 1 do feel a bit tempted to try it again. But, I just remember feeling so vio- lently ill that I don’t really feel tempted for long. I think it’s better for me anyway if I don’t smoke. I'll probably be in better health than my friends who smoke all the time Do you think smoking is a problem that needs special attention and has to be solved? If so, why? Yes. People in China aren’t aware of the terrible health consequences of smok- ing. They just smoke because it’s socially acceptable to do so. If more people knew they might get cancer from smoking, they would probably stop, or at least smoke less. I do think that the tobacco industry is big business, and if we tried to eliminate smoking, we'd also be eliminating jobs. It’s a tough situa- tion, but at the very least, people should be told that smoking causes lung can- cer. That way they can make an informed choice about whether to smoke or not. What do you know about Britain /Canada / Australia? I've never been to Canada, but I know it’s a developed country with excellent education and health care systems. The population is about 30 million, which find surprising, considering it has one of the largest land areas. One of my for- eign English teachers was from Canada, and he showed me many pictures of Canada. It’s a very beautiful country, with a lot of different kinds of land- scapes. Also, it’s quite cold there in the winter time. What problems do you think you zill have in Britain /Canada / Australia? I will probably have some trouble with English at first. I heard that once you get used to using English all the time, it gets a lot easier to pick it up. I suppose T'll also need to learn how to do things in Canada. For example, I won’ t know how to buy an underground ticket and use the transportation system, mail a let- ter, open a bank account, and other things. I think that’s pretty normal to face these troubles when I first arrive. How will you overcome the difficulties? How will you deal with them?117. 118 119. T have friends who are already living in Australia. They said they would help me if I ran into trouble. In fact, some of my friends are recent immigrants to Australia, and have just gone through the whole adjustment process. I also have a couple of friends who were born and raised in Australia, who promised to help me settle in. Also, I’ ve heard that people in Australia are very friendly. So, I hope to be able to ask them for a little help too. Do you think you will be able to cope with the English demands of your intend- ed study programme in Britain /Canada / Australia? Yes, but I think it will be difficult at first. But I am sure my English will i prove quickly. Once I get used to the British accent, I'll be able to understand things a lot better. Unfortunately, I have mostly focused on studying American English, so it will be a bit of an adjustment to learn British English. Also, 1 have been studying a lot of technical vocabulary to prepare me for studying my major in English instead of in Chinese. What difficulties do you think you' ll encounter in your studies in Britain/ Canada /Australia? Well, besides initial language difficulties, I'll have to adjust to a different sys- tem of education and research. 1’ ve heard that students are usually quite active in the classroom and often ask questions of their professors. We don’t do that at all in China, but I do think it’s a good way to learn. In China, we aren't taught to question the professor nor the textbook. But in Britain, I know that it’s important to not just accept what you hear or read without trying to truly understand it. On a minor note, I'll be a bit confused at first about using the li- brary, and I won't know exactly what to do when I want to buy-a meal in the cafeteria. Can you imagine what life in Britain /Canada / Australia will be like? T have seen many pictures of Canada. I’m looking forward to the fresh air and beautiful scenery. In some ways I can just picture me there. But, I’ ve never been to Canada before, so what I picture now, I’m sure, is not even close to what it will actually be like. Even though some of my friends have already im- 149120. 121. 122 123. 150 migrated to Canada or are there studying, I can only get a partial glimpse of what it will be like. I’m looking forward to the adventure! How will you fare in Britain Canada /Australia without your family? Of course I will miss them deeply, but we plan to email each other a lot. 1 know that my family will be alright in China, and probably they will be more wortied about me than I will be about them. There’s no doubt that it will be a sacrifice for us to be apart during my time in Australia, but as the old saying goes, “No pains, no gains.” What do you want /intend to study? I plan to study Business. Hopefully at the master’s degree level. I’ ve heard that if I can get an MBA from a university in the West, my chances of getting good job in a joint-venture company is very good. If I can’t get into Business, then I hope to study Computers. Business is really my first choice, though. Which university are you going to study at? It’s a small university in eastern Canada called Mount Allison University. It has a very beautiful campus, but it’s quite remote. The nearest town is at least an hour's drive away. It’ll be quite a change from living in a big city, but I’m looking forward to the peace and quiet. Why did you choose this university? Could you tell me why you chose to study at (name of university)? a. The London School of Economics is especially famous for Business and Eco- nomics. I have been in contact with some professors at the university, and Professor Duncan will be my supervisor for my research project. His work is right along the same lines as my research work in China. We' re quite excit- ed about the chance to work together, because we both feel that we can lear from each other, and also bring the best of the East and the West in E- conomic research. b, (Name of university) is famous for my major. I have been in contact with 2 An124 126. some professors at the university, and Professor (last name) will be my su- pervisor for my research project. Where are you going to study in Britain /Canada/Australia, etc. and why? In Toronto. There are three reasons for this: Firstly, it’s in the south of Candada, where the climate is suitable for Chinese. Another reason is that there are many Chinese in Toronto. Finally, the Univer- sity of Toronto, the biggest university in Canada, is located in this city. I be- came eager to study at this university after I visited their web site. . What are your plans in Britain ‘Canada /Australia? a. [plan to study at Monash University under Professor Smitty. That should take me about 4 to 5 years to complete a doctorate degree. While I’m study- ing, I'll also be doing a lot of research in my field, and hopefully 1” l be able to contribute to Professor Smitty’s work. Besides the academic side, I do plan to travel all over Australia and see the sites. I want to really get a good sense of Australia and how people think and live there. I’ve thought about this for a long time. As you know, I’m married, and my wife gave birth to our first child at the beginning of the year. So, though we applied for immigration as a family, I have to go to Canada first because my baby is too young. When I arrive in Canada, I must solve the accommodation problem by using my savings. Then, I'll ty to find a job to provide for my family. Finally, I hope to study part time for a master" degree if I can find a job, or I’ ll have to apply for a Joan to study full-time if I am unable to find a job. A fter a maximum of six months when everything is organized, my wife will bring our daughter to Canada. Then, as a family, we will build our life to- gether in this new country. & What is your research proposal all about? (in detail ) ‘The main research aims to find out whether prolonged usage of mobile phones has a causative role in brain tumours, especially malignant ones. There are ac- tually quite a few steps involved in this research, but that’s the general idea. If 151127 128. 152 ‘we can prove a correlation between high usage of mobile phones and malignant brain tumours, then we will have some serious recommendations to make to both telecommunications companies, mobile phone subscribers, and medical governing bodies. What do you hope for most from your study abroad? T hope to have a broader understanding of life in general. I know that I ve lived a fairly sheltered life from the outside world so far, and there is much to learn from living and studying abroad. I really want to improve my English to the point that it’s second nature to me. Also, I want to be able to take the best from the two cultures (that of the East and the West) and live my life with the best of both. What will your study abroad do for your career? Tt will help me to get a good job when I return to China. I know that if I want to work in a joint-venture company, I really must have fluent English, and preferably also a degree from a western university. Also, in order to work well with American or British colleagues at work, I think it’s important to really understand where they are coming from. By studying abroad, I” Il have first- hand knowledge of what people in America think and why they think this way. I’m sure this will help me relate better to my western counterparts. . Should you study more theory or do more practice? Give your reasons please. a. I prefer to study theory. Even if we do practice, it won’ t necessarily be ex- actly relevant to our future jobs. Also, learning theories helps to develop our way of thinking. It gives us new ways of understanding and seeing things. Learning these ideas will help us as we meet problems in our day to day work. We need to be good problem solvers, so if we learn many ways to conceptualize a problem, we will have more ways to also solve it. I think practice is more important. What good are theories if they can’ t be used in some practical way? I’ ve heard of many people who study in univer- sity and earn a bachelor’s, master’ s, or even a doctorate degree, but they’re really no use at work. This proves that practice is more important =130. 13, 132. than theory. I certainly don’t want to spend my time studying all kinds of theories, and then not know anything useful for my job. How important are the roles of theory and practice in your discipline? Certainly theory and practice are both important, and sometimes one is more important than the other. In Engineering, in particular, we really cannot func- tion without both theory and practice. A solid grounding in theory gives engi- neers the ideas and concepts they need to understand a problem or situation. But, we really need to have very practical knowledge too of what actually works and what doesn’ t work. So, in fact in Engineering, theory and practice are in- terrelated and inseparable. What kind of differences in the cultures are you expecting between China and the UK? I think the UK will be more religious than China, and I’m looking forward to fing a church there. Also, business in the UK will be more formal—based ‘on contracts, and a lot less on connections. I think that will be a bit hard to get used to. And, I think that life will move at a faster pace in Britain. I am not really looking forward to that, but I think I'll probably adjust after a while. I'm certain there are going to be other major differences that I'll encounter— perhaps in mindset or attitude, but I think I” Il have to experience those things before I can really understand them. vis How will your study in Britain benefit your work in China when you come back to China? If I can acquire some international management experience, I would have an opportunity to find a senior position with a Chinese company, because most companies now must cooperate with multinational corporations. . What do you intend to do after you finish studying? I plan to return to China and get a good job or if I have further opportunity, I hope to do some further study in my field once I complete this degree. It’s hard 153134 135 136. 137. 154 to really say what I'll be doing after my studies, because I do think that many doors will be open to me once I complete a degree in Canada. I really do intend to return to China and working in some capacity here. But, it really depends where I can get a good job. What problem can you foresee in the future when you come back to China? T have heard that some people have a “reverse” culture shock when they return to China. I think that I might have that same feeling. It’ Il be another kind of adjustment to return to my homeland after having spent so much time studying abroad. I’ Il certainly see things with a new perspective. In terms of a job, I don’t think I'll have a problem getting a good job, actually a better job, when T return to China. Will there be any adjustment problems in your life when you come back to Chi- na? If so, what are they? Well, it may take me some time to get used to my culture again. I don’t really know how big that adjustment will be though. Also, I'll have to look for a new job and probably a new place to live. That won't really be a big problem, but it will take some time to settle back down. I’ ve also heard that sometimes people don’t really adjust a all back to their homeland. ‘They’ ve tasted life abroad and they feel kind of boxed in once they return. I might feel like that too, but I hope not. Will you have to make any changes in your work /life when you come back to China? Yes. I'll have to look for a new job and another place to live. I have told my boss that I’m going to study abroad. He said he would hold my job for me, but I don’t think I want to resume my same position at my same company when I return. I will definitely be looking for something bigger and better. And, be- cause my housing is linked with my current company, if I don’ t continue there, I'll have to find a new place to live. Do you think there will be a gap between your knowledge gained in China and138. 139. the level of knowledge you are going to encounter on arrival? If so, what will it be? a. Idon’t think there will be much gap because I have read all the latest re- search that is being conducted in my field. I know that some people think wwe are all backwards in China, and we are just learning things that people in America learned ten or even twenty years ago. But, I have been reading ev- erything I can find in my field and area of research. Certainly the internet has closed much of that gap. There will definitely be some gap because some of my subjects used older textbooks, and my professors in China didn’ t always keep at the forefront of their fields. I don’ t really know what the gaps will be, though. Some of my friends who went abroad said that it took them about a year to close the gap. “a They didn’t elaborate on exactly what the gap was, but they said it was here and there. Not in any particular area. I’m expecting to encounter some gaps, but I believe through hard work, I will be able to handle them al- right What do you think of the future of China if China keeps an open policy. I think China’ s future is very promising. The open policy has brought many benefits to the Chinese. For example, our standard of living has increased, China has become a stronger nation economically, and we have gained much knowledge about the rest of the world. China needs to continue with an open policy in order for us to gain strength and respect as a world class nation. What do you regard as the most significant events in your country’ s recent his- tory. The Cultural Revolution, which really changed many people's lives. This time ‘was a very emotional time in China’s history, and many people suffered as a re- sult of the movement during 1966 to 1976. Deng Xiaoping’ s leadership has also changed China’ s economic situation quite significantly. With his guiding princi- ples, China has been able to increase trade relations with many countries, as well as gain much foreign investment in Chinese companies. Also, China’ s Oth Anniversary, which was celebrated on October 1st. This was a very proud 155141. 142. moment for us, because this government has been very stable and has made great strides in developing our country. . Are there any special places you want to see in Canada? What are they’? I want to see the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia and I also want to visit Quebec. I have heard so much about the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Also, Theard that Quebec is quite different than the rest of Canada. Some of my friends told me that it’ s like visiting Europe. Even though I don’ t speak French, I think it will be a very interesting place to visit. Eventually, I hope that I can drive all across Canada and really spend time getting to see all the fa- mous sites. What do you especially want to do in Canada? T want to buy a car. In China it is so hard to buy a car." There are all kinds of restrictions. Even though I’ ve had my driver’ license for more than a year, I still haven't had much opportunity to drive. Many of my friends bought a car once they arrived in Canada. It’s quite funny actually, because many Chinese are eager to buy their own car. Another thing I want to do is visit my former English teacher who lives in Vancouver now. I met her in 1992 when she taught me English at my university. We’ ve kept in touch until now, so I hope I get a chance to meet up with her again. How do you like your life in (name of university)? a. don't like it very much. The dormitory is very crowded, the food is taste- less and my teachers aren’ t very inspiring. When I was a high school stu- dent, I was looking forward to university life so much. I’m quite disap- pointed, because it’s really not what I expected. I know that I should prob- ably make the best of the situation, but life is very boring for me right now and I have little motivation to look on the bright side of everything. . I like it alright. Sometimes it is a little had to live in the university, but I have made many good friends and I enjoy my major. It was hard at first to live apart from my parents, but I think that it has been a good change for me. I am much more independent and more able to deal with troubles on my o143. 144. 145. ‘own. My courses are mostly interesting too, so I’m glad that I chose the major I did. I am kind of dreading the day when I graduate, because it’ Il mean that my university days are over. What do you think of the training in the university? a. J think most of my courses will be helpful in the future. My university has tried very hard to keep up to date with the latest developments in our field. Having said that, there are some compulsory classes which I have no interest in, like politics and history. But overall, I do think the university has pro- vided me with a good education. I don’t think it's possible to learn every- thing one would need for a job, but I am satisfied with my courses and know that they will give me a good start. b. I don’t think it’s very good. There are some compulsory classes which have no interest in. Also, our facilities are not very’modern, so there are many things we cannot do. In what way do you think university training is helpful or falls short? In China, going to university can help me get a good job. But, many courses are too old and not very useful. The professors are just recently graduated and very new in their field, or older and not current with new developments. Also, we have to take all sorts of courses that are not directly related to our field. This, I feel, is a complete waste of time. We could be learning much more in our own field, instead of spending time learning courses that have no use for our future. What aspect of English do you find the most difficult? Pronunciation. I wish that I could speak just like a native speaker. But, once I ‘open my mouth, it’s so obvious that I’m not a native English speaker. I al- ways have trouble with “I”s and “n"s. Sometimes I confuse them. Perhaps be- cause in my dialect, we interchange them all the time. I’m not even aware that I’m doing this. So, I really have to concentrate when I speak English, so that I'm very careful to pronounce things correctly. 157146. Do you find American English easier to understand than British English? Yes. It’s much easier to understand for me because I’ ve had 2 foreign teach- ‘ers—one of whom was from America and the other from Canada. I find the American accent to be more natural and informal, while the British accent is somewhat proper and inaccessible in some ways. 147. What sports are played in your country? Ping pong and football are probably the most popular sports. China has a very large following of football fans. Even though our football teams don’ t do well in international competitions—like the World Cup, we still are crazy about foot- ball. Other sports that are played in China are badminton, volleyball, basket- ball, swimming, and tennis. 148. Could you describe the traditional architecture of your country? Firstly, the buildings are made of wood or bamboo instead of stone or metal. Secondly, they are very high and always have curved eaves. Thirdly, the tradi- tional buildings have doors and windows that are adorned with paintings. 149. What roles does religion play in everyday life in your country? I think different religions have different practices. Buddhists, for example, usually don’t eat food from animals and pray to the Buddha at the bigginning and in the middle of each month of the Chinese lunar calendar year. People who believe in Islam don’ t eat pork and usually live together. besides, There are al- so Christians who believe in God and go to churches. 150. What do you think is the most important event in China’ s recent history? I think it was the third conference of the eleventh central committee of the Communist Party of china, which determined the policy of Reforming and Opening up. Because of the conference, our standard of living has improved dramatically.151. 152. 153. 154. 155. How aware do you think people are nowadays about environmental issues? ‘The average person knows very little about global environmental issues. Even environmental issues in China are nearly unheard of. I think it’s probably be- cause we’ re still a developing country, and we don’t have the luxury of spend- ing money on environmental concerns. I would say that most people know that it’s important to conserve water if possible, though. Could you tell me why sou chose to study at (name of university)? Mostly because it’s famous in my field, but T also wanted to study at the best university possible, so I applied for Beijing University. Also, because Beijing is the capital of China, and I always wanted to live in the capital city. I must say that I’m not disappointed at all in choosing Beijing University and the beautiful city of Beijing. But, the winters are really too cold for me. What are the sporting facilities like in your hometown? There aren’t very many sporting facilities that are free and open to the public. Most of the indoor facilities require you to be a member. The outdoor fields are open for anyone to use. We have two indoor swimming pools, four football fields, and many basketball, badminton and volleyball courts. Also, there are a number of outdoor swimming pools, which are very popular, especially in the summer. What role does tourism play in your country’ s economy? Tourism is playing a more and more important role in our country’s economy. ‘Since the opening up, the number of tourists has increased dramatically, and this is a useful source of foreign currency for the country. How serious is unemployment in your country? Because China has a large population, there is always an unemployment prob- lem. In recent years, however, things have been getting worse. Due to the fact that the economic environment is not good, many state-owned companies and 159