1. Do all inventions have both benefits and drawbacks? What does this fact depend on? How has electricity or the internet changed the way we live?
2. Have you ever been in a situation where you changed sides and joined a different group or team? What made you switch, and what was the experience like? Share experiences of switching allegiances, whether in a social, academic, or sports context, and reflect on the reasons and outcomes of that choice.
3. Can you describe a time when someone in your life changed their tune about a particular issue or topic? What do you think led to their change in perspective? Think about shifts in attitudes or opinions you have observed and analyse possible reasons behind those changes.
4. Has the pace of
social change accelerated in the twentieth century? What changes
occurred more rapidly at the end of the century than they did at the beginning?
5. What dramatic
changes has IT brought us?
6. What far-reaching
changes have we recently witnessed in the world’s opinion towards the
environment?
7. What would make
you move within the same city or town? And to a different one or to a
different country?
8. Can you think of an area in your life, community, or even society as a whole that has undergone significant changes recently? What impact have these changes had, and do you think they are positive or negative?
9. In your
opinion, what is the reason why some people have difficulties in adjusting
to being a parent? Is it harder for men or women?
10. On the third
Sunday in October clocks go back by an hour. Do clock changes
affect you adversely or positively? In what ways does changing the clocks affect you?
11. Tell your
partner about a time when you had to modify your views about something?
What made you modify them?
12. Do you work
in shifts? If so, do you like working in shifts? If not, would you like to?
What about the night shift?
Monologue
Student A
1. Compare the
time we live in with fifty years ago. In what ways have the following changed? mass
media, transports, housework, the roles of men and women, work, food, raising
children, education, medicine, culture, politics, technology, travel, clothes
and fashion, entertainment, leisure, religion, housing conditions.
2. What are the
top 10 inventions that have changed our lives for the better? Can
you think of any that have changed our lives for the worse?
3. Discuss the ways in which modern times are evolving and the impact these changes have on society, culture, and individual lives.
Student B
1. Talk about:
something you try to vary in your life, a time when you had to modify
your behaviour or language; the problems someone might encounter when converting
to a different religion.
2. Tell us about how
easily you adapt to change; how easily people in general adapt to
change; something which has changed significantly in the town you
live in in recent years; any changes you would like to make to your lifestyle.
3. Can you describe a time when you pursued a major change in your career to follow your ambitions? What motivated you, and how did it impact your life? What would make you change to a new type of work?
Vocabulary
Pictures
rocking chair: a chair with two curved pieces of wood under it that
make it move backwards and forwards.
Barefoot: not wearing anything on your feet:
e.g. poor children going barefoot in the street.
We
can see a middle-aged man with receding hair / a receding hairline.
double-decker: a bus with two floors, one on top of the other
billboard: a large board on the outside of a building or at the side of the road,
used for putting advertisements on.
A man is climbing up a ladder
a bus conductor: a person whose job is to collect money
from passengers on a bus or check their tickets.
ironing board: /aɪənɪŋ/ a long narrow board covered with cloth, and
usually with folding legs, that you iron clothes on
iron:
/aɪən/ a tool with a flat metal base that can be heated and used to make
clothes smooth.
do the ironing.
Salt cellar: a small container for salt, usually with one hole in
the top, which is used at the table. (Sp. Salero)
Sugar bowl: container for sugar
She is wearing a dressing gown (Sp. bata).
Bucket: an open container with a handle, used for carrying or holding
liquids, sand, etc.
A rolling pin
is a cylindrical food preparation utensil
/juˈtensəl/ used to shape and flatten dough
/dəʊ/
A tea towel is a small towel used for
drying cups, plates, knives, etc. after they have been washed
Boiler: a container in which water is heated to provide hot water and heating
in a building
Pot:
a deep round container used for cooking things in.
Dishcloth: a cloth for washing dishes (Sp. bayeta).
Mop:
a tool for washing floors that has a long handle
Meat mincer: /ˈmɪnsə/ a machine for cutting food, especially
meat, into very small pieces.
Coffee grinder: /ˈɡraɪndə/ a machine or tool for grinding a solid
substance into a powder.(Grind ground ground: Sp. moler)
cutlery: knives, forks and spoons, used for eating and serving food.
crockery: plates, cups, dishes, etc
appliance: a machine that is designed to do a particular thing in the home, such
as preparing food, heating or cleaning: e.g. electrical / household
appliances. They sell a wide range of domestic
appliances—washing machines, dishwashers
and so on.
Housework: the work involved in taking care of a home and family,
for example cleaning and cooking: e.g. to
do the housework.
Chore: a task that you do regularly: e.g.
doing the
household / domestic chore.
I do the washing (= wash the clothes) in
our house.
Do the washing-up: the act of washing plates, glasses, pans,
etc. after a meal: e.g. If you cook,
I’ll do the washing-up
There is a globe on a stand so that it can be turned
The books are piled up
I can see gently falling snowflakes that are drifting slowly toward the parasol.
A man wearing swimming trunks is shivering on a sunbed.
The woman is wearing a bobble hat, a scarf and gloves
There is a fence in the background.
Dustcart (Br E) garbage truck (Am E): a vehicle for collecting rubbish / garbage from outside houses, etc
Can: a metal container for food and drink.
Dustman: (also informal: binman; formal: refuse collector; NAmE: garbage man): a person whose job is to remove waste from outside houses, etc
In the old days the radio was called the wireless. You can say for example: I heard it on the wireless.
The whole family gathered round the Radio
In the past people used to listen to the radio. Nowadays we usually watch TV.
They had to tune the radio dial whereas we switch TV channels.
There is a globe on a stand so that it can be turned
The books are piled up
I can see gently falling snowflakes that are drifting slowly toward the parasol.
A man wearing swimming trunks is shivering on a sunbed.
The woman is wearing a bobble hat, a scarf and gloves
There is a fence in the background.
Dustcart (Br E) garbage truck (Am E): a vehicle for collecting rubbish / garbage from outside houses, etc
Can: a metal container for food and drink.
Dustman: (also informal: binman; formal: refuse collector; NAmE: garbage man): a person whose job is to remove waste from outside houses, etc
In the old days the radio was called the wireless. You can say for example: I heard it on the wireless.
The whole family gathered round the Radio
In the past people used to listen to the radio. Nowadays we usually watch TV.
They had to tune the radio dial whereas we switch TV channels.
Questions:
1. Do all inventions have both benefits and drawbacks? What does this fact depend on? How has electricity or the internet changed the way we live?
Electricity brought far-reaching prosperity. However, the old paradigm can't be sustained.
The greatest invention ever is said to be the wheel. What impact did the wheel have on the way people lived? Controlling fire for the purposes of providing heat and light was one of mankind’s first great achievements. What were the consequences of such control?
The invention of the wheel really transformed the world. It immediately led to a sweeping change (having an important effect on a large part of sth)
When people learned to control fire, certain routines changed drastically. For instance they varied their diets.
The invention of the wheel really transformed the world. It immediately led to a sweeping change (having an important effect on a large part of sth)
When people learned to control fire, certain routines changed drastically. For instance they varied their diets.
3. Can you describe a time when someone in your life changed their tune about a particular issue or topic? What do you think led to their change in perspective? Think about shifts in attitudes or opinions you have observed and analyse possible reasons behind those changes.
Change your tune: (informal) to express a different opinion or behave in a different way when your situation changes. E.g. Wait until it happens to him—he'll soon change his tune.
4. Has the pace of social change accelerated in the twentieth century? What changes occurred more rapidly at the end of the century than they did at the beginning?
A change in government of course meant economic and social changes.
5. What dramatic changes has IT brought us?
New technologies brought about a sweeping change in the second half
of the twentieth century. It was a time of radical change caused by the
many changes happening in technology with new advancements, discoveries,
and inventions.
6. What far-reaching changes have we recently witnessed in the world’s opinion towards the environment?
Far-reaching: likely to have a lot of influence or many effects. Sp. De gran alcance. Trascendental. E.g. far-reaching consequences/ implications. Far-reaching changes/reforms.
People’s attitudes towards global warming have changed substantially
People’s attitudes towards global warming have changed substantially
7. What would make you move within the same city or town? And to a different one or to a different country?
Travelling and living in different countries has been one of the highlights
of my life so far, at times an overwhelming experience and a
great eye-opener.
9. In your opinion, what is the reason why some people have difficulties in adjusting to being a parent? Is it harder for men or women?
New parents can suddenly feel overwhelmed by how their life has changed.
As much as they thought about how their life was going to change, no one can
really prepare them for it. I think new dads tend to get back into their
routines much faster than new mums.
10. On the third Sunday in October clocks go back by an hour. Do clock changes affect you adversely or positively? In what ways does changing the clocks affect you?
I find it difficult to adjust to clock change in the winter. I would
prefer to do sports and other outdoor leisure activities during daylight
hours.
11. Tell your partner about a time when you had to modify your views about something? What made you modify them?
In many cases, we need to first change our behaviour before we can change
our beliefs. I have to start with acting differently and it's the process of engaging
in new behaviours that helps me start to develop new attitudes.
12. Do you work in shifts? If so, do you like working in shifts? If not, would you like to? What about the night shift?
Working in shifts has a number of advantages as well as
disadvantages. Advantages, in my opinion, far outnumber the
disadvantages….
However, people who work in shifts tend to neglect socializing due to the constant schedule changes.
However, people who work in shifts tend to neglect socializing due to the constant schedule changes.
Monologue:
A
1. Compare the time we live in with fifty years ago. In what ways have the following changed? mass media, transports, housework, the roles of men and women, work, food, raising children, education, medicine, culture, politics, technology, travel, clothes and fashion, entertainment, leisure, religion, housing conditions.
Our generation
has witnessed a
significant change.
One of the most radical changes in the last 50 years or so has been globalization. It is transforming our world.
One of the most radical changes in the last 50 years or so has been globalization. It is transforming our world.
2. What are the top 10 inventions that have changed our lives for the better? Can you think of any that have changed our lives for the worse?
Since the invention of the internet our lifestyles have changed significantly
The invention of the atomic bomb brought about a dramatic change and not precisely for the better.
Mobile phones have completely transformed our social habits.
The invention of the atomic bomb brought about a dramatic change and not precisely for the better.
Mobile phones have completely transformed our social habits.
3. Discuss the ways in which modern times are evolving and the impact these changes have on society, culture, and individual lives.
In today’s world, we are witnessing a sea (1)_____________ across various aspects of life, driven (2)____________ technological advancements, shifts in cultural values, and transformations in how people connect and communicate. These changes, while often beneficial, bring both challenges and opportunities (3)__________ impact our daily lives, societal structures, and global interactions.
One of the most significant drivers of change is technology, (4)____________ has changed significantly how we work, learn, and even how we socialize. Many now work remotely, using digital tools that allow collaboration across borders—a welcome change for those seeking flexibility in balancing (5)___________ personal and professional lives. (6)______________, this trend has also blurred the line between work and home, sometimes resulting (7)_____________ a change for the (8)_____________________ as people work longer hours, leading to increased stress. The rise of social media has similarly changed considerably how we connect, making it easier to bring people together globally. (9)____________ this connectivity can bring about social change by fostering a global community, it can also create feelings of isolation and social comparison.
Cultural values are also evolving in response to these technological and social shifts. There is a growing emphasis (10)__________ equality, sustainability, and mental well-being, which many consider a desirable change . More people are advocating social issues through online platforms, allowing for diverse voices to be (11)________________ and social movements to gain momentum quickly. This welcome change is making societies more inclusive and encouraging individuals to embrace diversity. However, some people resist change, (12)______________ when traditional norms are challenged, leading to a divide in society that can make (13)____________ difficult to maintain respectful dialogue. In these cases, unexpected changes in cultural norms can create tension, requiring a careful balance between progress and tradition.
These changes are also impacting individual lives profoundly. Younger generations, for example, are growing up with unprecedented access (14)_____________ information, which has changed their perspectives considerably compared to previous generations. They are more aware of global issues like climate change and feel responsible for bringing (15)____________ social change for a sustainable future. However, adapting to a job market transformed by automation and globalisation can present a daunting challenge, sometimes leading to an unwelcome change in job security and stability.
(16)____________ conclusion, as times continue to change, individuals and societies must adapt to new realities. While these shifts bring numerous benefits, (17)_____________ as increased connectivity and social progress, they also pose considerable challenges. (18)____________ welcoming these major changes and working together to solve the problems they cause, we can create a future that balances innovation with well-being and inclusivity. Ultimately, we should aim (19)_______________ make sure that these changes lead to a change for the (20)_____________ and thus a better life for all.
KEY
1. change
2. by
3. that
4. which
5. their
6. However/ Nevertheless/ Nonetheless
7. in
8. worse
9. While/ Whilst
10. on/upon
11. heard
12. especially/particularly
13. it
14. to
15. about
16. In
17. such
18. By
19. to
20. better
B
1. Talk about: something you try to vary in your life, a time when you had to modify your behaviour or language; the problems someone might encounter when converting to a different religion.
I would like to
vary my daily routine in order to have a less boring life.
I gave up just about everything to pursue my career.
I was quite happy about the whole thing until I had the worry about whether or not I had rushed into it too soon.
I gave up just about everything to pursue my career.
I was quite happy about the whole thing until I had the worry about whether or not I had rushed into it too soon.
2. Tell us about how easily you adapt to change; how easily people in general adapt to change; something which has changed significantly in the town you live in in recent years; any changes you would like to make to your lifestyle.
I wish I had put a bit more effort into adapting to that
significant change.
We are faced with the need to adjust to change. Younger generations in particular adjust effortlessly. They are used to life at a high-speed. Some people adapt easily in a shorter period of time. Sometimes older generations struggle to cope with change.
We are faced with the need to adjust to change. Younger generations in particular adjust effortlessly. They are used to life at a high-speed. Some people adapt easily in a shorter period of time. Sometimes older generations struggle to cope with change.
3. Can you describe a time when you pursued a major change in your career to follow your ambitions? What motivated you, and how did it impact your life? What would make you change to a new type of work?
After finishing my degree, I found myself (1)_______________ (EMPLOY) with plenty of time on my hands. Rather than letting that time go to waste, I decided to (2)______________ (PURSUIT) a teaching career. It wasn’t easy, but when I finally landed my first teaching position, the sense of (3)______________ (ACHIEVE) was worth it. Reaching this goal gave me a deep (4)__________________ (SATISFY).
Still, I had always (5)______________ (HARBOUR) a (6)____________ (BURN) ambition—my lifelong ambition had been to become an actor, though it had stayed a secret ambition while I focused on practical goals. But as I approached my thirtieth birthday, I realized there was no reason to hold back any longer. With my family’s support, I jumped at the chance and threw myself into acting, eager to fulfil my ambition. Those early days were (7)_____________ (THRILL), and this new chapter felt like a (8)____________ (FRESH) change.
Over time, though, the routine of acting started to feel (9)______________ (REPEAT), and I realized I was ready for a (10)_________________ (DRAMA) change. I wanted new challenges and opportunities for (11)__________________ (GROW). When I was offered a role as a creative director in a media company, I knew it was time for a (12)___________________ (SWEEP) change. The position allowed me to combine my love for (13)__________________ (PERFORM) with project (14)_________________ (DEVELOP) and (15)___________________ (LEAD). This move was more than just a career shift—it was a drastic and (16)____________________ (REACH) change that changed my lifestyle (17)______________ (SIGNIFY). It was also a welcome change that encouraged me to grow both professionally and personally.
At first, the shift was rather (18)________________ (EXHILARATION). The role brought a (19)___________ (PLEASE) change, filling my days with creative decisions, team collaboration, and the chance to bring new ideas to life on a larger scale. Looking back, each move wasn’t just about switching jobs—it was about having the courage to make significant changes, follow my (20)_____________ (PERSON) ambitions, and embrace the opportunities that allowed me to keep growing and evolving.
KEY
1. unemployed
2. pursue
3. achievement
4. satisfaction
5. harboured
6. burning
7. thrilling
8. refreshing
9. repetitive
10. dramatic
11. growth
12. sweeping
13. performance
14. development
15. leadership
16. far-reaching
17. significantly
18. exhilarating
19. pleasant
20. personal
