STAGE 2 – Presentation Task
Prompt:
“Online learning has become more common, especially since the pandemic. While it offers flexibility, some people believe it’s not as effective as classroom learning.”
Task:
What are the pros and cons of studying online instead of in person? Include both viewpoints and your own experience.
Presentation Sample:
“I will now begin my presentation.”
Online learning has become very popular in recent years, especially after the pandemic. One main advantage of online learning is flexibility. Students can study from home and set their own schedule. For example, I can attend lectures while traveling or during a free afternoon, which is very convenient.
However, online learning also has disadvantages. Some people believe it is less effective because students may not get enough interaction with teachers and classmates. It can feel lonely, and it is easy to get distracted at home.
In my personal experience, online learning has helped me manage my time better, but I sometimes miss asking questions directly in class and discussing ideas with friends.
In conclusion, online learning is useful and flexible, but it cannot completely replace the benefits of classroom interaction.
“Thank you for your attention.”
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STAGE 3 – Essay Task
Prompt:
“Financial experts say that saving is a skill that should be taught at a young age. (Source: The Citizen)”
Question: What are the positive and negative aspects of saving money?
Sample Essay (200–250 words):
Financial experts often say that saving money is a very important skill, and it should be learned from a young age. Saving has many advantages, but it can also have some disadvantages if done incorrectly.
One positive aspect of saving money is that it helps people prepare for emergencies. For example, if someone saves regularly, they can pay for unexpected medical bills or other urgent needs. Saving money also encourages discipline. For instance, a friend of mine used to save part of her weekly allowance and finally bought a laptop without asking anyone for money. Furthermore, saving at a young age helps people plan for long-term goals like higher education or buying a house.
On the other hand, saving can sometimes be harmful if it becomes too strict. Some people focus too much on saving and avoid spending on basic needs or enjoyable activities. This can cause stress or unhappiness. Also, in times of inflation, money that is simply saved without investment may lose its value. For example, my brother saved money to buy a bicycle, but by the time he had enough, the price had increased.
In conclusion, saving money is very useful for the future and managing risks. However, it is important to balance saving and spending to ensure both financial security and a happy life.
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Stage 3 – Sample Questions and Answers
1. What does the word discipline mean in the context of your essay?
Sample Answer: Discipline means the ability to control your habits and manage your money carefully.
2. Can you explain the sentence “Saving at a young age encourages discipline” in your own words?
Sample Answer: It means if you save money early, you learn how to manage your money and develop good habits.
3. What is a synonym for the word emergency?
Sample Answer: Crisis, urgent situation, or unexpected problem.
4. Define ‘inflation’ in simple terms.
Sample Answer: Inflation is when the prices of goods and services increase over time.
5. What do you understand by the term financial security?
Sample Answer: Financial security means having enough money to pay for your needs and emergencies.
6. Can you give a different word for restrictive when talking about money?
Sample Answer: Limiting, controlling, or strict.
7. What does inflation mean and how can it affect your savings?
Sample Answer: Inflation means prices go up, and it can make your saved money worth less.
8. Have you ever saved money for something important? What was the result?
Sample Answer: Yes, I saved money for a smartphone, and I was able to buy it without asking my parents.
9. Do you think saving should be taught in schools? Why or why not?
Sample Answer: Yes, because learning to save helps students manage money wisely in the future.
10. Would you rather save money or spend it on experiences? Why?
Sample Answer: I prefer to save money for emergencies, but I also spend a little on experiences to enjoy life.
11. Do you think people who save too much miss out on life? Explain.
Sample Answer: Yes, if someone saves too much and never enjoys, they may feel unhappy.
12. How does saving money reduce stress in adulthood?
Sample Answer: Saving money provides a safety net, so you don’t worry about emergencies.
13. Can saving money negatively affect someone’s social life? How?
Sample Answer: Yes, if you never spend money on friends or outings, you may miss social events.
14. Besides financial security, what other benefits can saving bring?
Sample Answer: It helps achieve goals, teaches discipline, and builds confidence.
15. What could happen if someone only saves and never spends on enjoyment?
Sample Answer: They may feel stressed, unhappy, and miss out on fun experiences.
Stage 4:
- Can you describe what is happening in this image? Sample Answer: In the image, a young boy is playing outside. He seems very happy. He is running and laughing while enjoying the fresh air.
- What season do you think it is, and how can you tell?
Sample Answer: I think it is spring or summer because the trees are green, the weather looks sunny, and the boy is wearing light clothes. - Why do you think the boy is enjoying this activity?
Sample Answer: The boy is enjoying running and playing freely. Outdoor games are fun, and he can move around and feel happy. - What are the benefits of outdoor play for children?
Sample Answer: Outdoor play helps children stay healthy, active, and strong. It also improves their social skills and creativity. - Do children in your country play like this often?
Sample Answer: Yes, many children play outside in parks or playgrounds, especially after school or during holidays. - How has children’s playtime changed in recent years?
Sample Answer: Nowadays, many children spend more time on phones or computers, so outdoor play has decreased a little. - What kind of outdoor places are common in your area for kids?
Sample Answer: In my area, there are parks, school playgrounds, open fields, and sometimes gardens where children can play. - What do you remember about your own childhood play activities?
Sample Answer: When I was a child, I loved playing football, running in the park, and riding my bicycle with friends. - Do you think technology affects how children play today?
Sample Answer: Yes, technology has changed playtime. Many children now spend more time on video games or mobile apps instead of playing outside. - How can parents encourage children to spend more time outdoors?
Sample Answer: Parents can encourage outdoor play by organizing trips to parks, playing with their children, and limiting screen time.
- What season do you think it is, and how can you tell?
