Using words from the text and lecture in exercise 1, prepare answers to the following questions:
a. Some people believe that discredited theories like phrenology should still be taught in universities to help students understand the history of science and how scientific ideas evolve. Others think it’s a waste of time and resources. What is your opinion and why?
Get Ready: 00:15
b.Do you agree or disagree with the idea that young athletes who are genetically predisposed to succeed in a particular sport should receive special scholarships or support? Use details and examples to explain your answer.
Get Ready: 00:45
Use one of the following speaking-1 templates:
Basic Template:
Main Point (choose one):
- "I support the view that…"
- "I believe it is preferable to…"
- "I find it a great/poor idea to…"
Transition (optional):
- "I hold this opinion for several reasons."
First Reason:
- "To begin with…" + "For instance…" (followed by a personal example).
Second Reason:
- "Additionally…" + "To elaborate…" (and include more details).
Advanced Template:
Personally, I firmly believe [MAIN POINT].
This is mainly due to [REASON 1].
By this, I mean [expand on the reason].
Furthermore, [REASON 2].
For example, [expand on the reason or provide an illustrative example].
Beginning next semester, the university’s athletic department will introduce a new scholarship program aimed at strengthening the volleyball team. In addition to performance in tryouts, players who submit genetic test results showing positive markers for traits linked to athletic ability—such as speed, endurance, and injury resistance—will become eligible for enhanced scholarships.
According to the department, “This initiative will help us invest in students with the best long-term athletic potential, based on both skill and science.”
—Office of Sports Affairs
Step 2. Listen to the audio file below. During the real exam you will hear the audio only once. But now you can listen to it as many times s you want.
Honestly, I think this is a terrible idea. I mean, sure, genetics might play a role, but we’re not just machines built for performance. What about students who work super hard, improve steadily, and still make the team? They might be overlooked just because their DNA doesn’t check some boxes. Also, asking for genetic test results feels really invasive. It's health information, and it shouldn't be a requirement for financial support. This might pressure students into taking tests they’re not comfortable with—just to stay competitive. That’s not fair or respectful.
Step 3. Prepare and record (in a messenger) an answer to the following question.
Preparation time - 30 seconds, speaking time - 60 seconds.
The woman expresses her opinion of the university’s announcement. State her opinion and the reasons she gives for holding that opinion
- "There are two reasons why the woman supports/objects to this ...."
- "The woman has negative feelings about this decision." (for mixed-opinion scenarios).
First Reason:
- "To start with, she states that…"
Second Reason:
- "In addition, she points out that…"
Advanced Template:
The announcement/article discusses [the proposed change].
This is partly due to [reason 1], as well as [reason 2].
The woman promptly voices her support/objection to this change.
Initially, she claims that [details], elaborating further that [additional details].
Moreover, she seems to believe that [details]. From her perspective, [more detailed reasoning].
Integrated speaking_4
Step1. Read the text
Reading time: 45 seconds
Read: 00:45
Genetic Predisposition in Athletic Performance
In recent years, sports science has increasingly emphasized the role of genetics in determining an individual’s potential in various athletic disciplines. Researchers have identified certain gene variants that influence muscle fiber composition, oxygen uptake, and reaction time—traits essential for success in sports. For example, the ACTN3 gene is often linked to power and sprinting ability, while the ACE gene is associated with endurance. These genetic markers suggest that some individuals may be naturally better suited to specific types of athletic activity, such as sprinting, swimming, or long-distance running. Although environmental factors like training, diet, and motivation are critical, genetic predisposition can significantly influence how far an athlete may progress in elite competition.
Critics, however, warn against over-reliance on genetic testing in youth sports. They argue that focusing too heavily on genetic traits could result in excluding potentially successful athletes who develop later or who succeed through training and resilience. Still, many sports academies and research institutions are beginning to consider genetic testing as part of their broader talent identification programs.
Step 2. Listen to the lecture
Note: Take notes of illustrations of the ideas given in the reading!
Step 3. Prepare and record your answer (send in a messenger)