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CYCLE 1 ▶ Discuss personal preferences
CYCLE 2 ▶ Discuss ways of learning and life skills
MASTER
If you could make a change to your country's educational system, what would it be?
Use specific reasons and details to show why this change is beneficial.
Learning: Anywhere, Anytime, for Any Reason
LEARNING PATHS
go to college
take online courses
take traditional training classes
study on your own
set up a study group
attend conferences
watch filmed lectures
LEARNING BENEFITS
get a degree
meet people and expand your network
change jobs or career path
get a raise or promotion at work
get a professional license or certification
learn something that makes your life easier
have fun
CYCLE 1 ▶ Discuss personal preferences using would rather and would prefer; talk about learning preferences and types of learning styles.
1 WARM UP Learning preferences
Learning objective: talk about popular college majors
Which universities are considered prominent in your country, and do they operate as private or public institutions?
What fields of study do students typically pursue at these universities?
Is attending college a common choice for individuals in your country? What factors influence this decision?
These majors are in high demand in 2024
Business management, Nursing, Education, Finance, Construction managers, Information technology, Pharmaceutical science, and Architecture.
2023
2 VIEWPOINT Campus Survey
Learning objectives: discuss a campus survey; see examples of rather and prefer in context
CAMPUS SURVEY
Listen to a survey about adding course to the curriculum.
study on my own
join a study group
both
art course
professional
neither > language
online
traditional
neither >
either >
Springfield Center for Continuing Education
PERSPECTIVES A survey
A Listen to a survey that a school is conducting about student preferences. Check the student's answers.
New courses survey
1. Would you rather study on your own or join a study group?
⬜ a. I'd rather study on my own.
⬜ b. I'd rather join a study group.
⬜ c. I'd rather do both.
2. Would you rather take and art course or a professional course?
⬜ a. I'd rather take an art course.
⬜ b. I'd rather take a professional course.
⬜ c. I'd rather not take either. I'd rather take a language course.
3. Would you prefer to take an online course or a traditional course?
⬜ a. I'd prefer to take an online course.
⬜ b. I'd prefer to take a traditional course.
⬜ c. I'd prefer not to take either. I'd prefer to hire a private tutor.
B Pair work Take the survey. You can change the underline information. Discuss your answers with a partner.
3 PRONUNCIATION Intonation in questions of choice
Learning objective: notice and use rising and falling intonation in questions of choice.
When we ask someone to choose between two things, we use rising intonation on the word before "OR" and falling intonation on the word after it. There is a slight pause before "OR".
Listen and practice. Notice the intonation in questions of choice.
Would you prefer to study online or at school?
Would you rather learn something fun or useful?
Would you prefer to study nursing or education?
Would you rather be a psychologist or an engineer?
Would you rather take broadcasting or economics?
Would you prefer to play the guitar or the violin?
Would you rather study fashion or hospitality?
Do you prefer to study in the day or at night?
4 GRAMMAR POINT Would rather and would prefer
Learning objective: practice would rather (not) and would prefer (not) to
Would you rather + (NOT) + base form of verb I'd rather learn. I'd rather not waste time.
Would you prefer + (NOT) + infinitive I'd prefer to learn. I'd prefer not to waste time.
Would rather takes the base form of the verb. Would you prefer usually takes an infinitive. Both are followed by not in the negative.
Would you rather take an art course or a professional course?
I'd rather take an art course.
I'd rather not take either.
I'd rather take a language course than study art.
Would you prefer to take an online course or a traditional course?
I'd prefer to take an online course. I'd prefer not to take either.
Let's join a study group.
I'd rather not join a group.
I'd rather not.
I'd prefer not to join a group.
I'd prefer not to.
▶Would you rather take a media class or a health class?
I'd rather take a media class.
I'd rather not take either.
I'd rather take another course than study media or health.
▶Would you prefer to study film studies or broadcasting?
I'd prefer to study film. I'd prefer not to study either.
Let's join a choir. /ˈkwīər/
I'd rather not join a choir.
I'd rather not.
I'd prefer not to join a choir.
I'd prefer not to.
Complete the conversations with would and the appropriate forms of the verbs in parenthesis. Then practice with a partner.
A: _____ you rather _____ (take) a technical course or an art course?
B: I would prefer _____ (take) an art course. I'd like to learn to paint.
1. A: .......... you prefer .......... (sign up) for a course in biology or geography?
B: I'm not really interested in geography, so I'd prefer .......... (take) a biology course.
2. A: .......... you rather .......... (learn) English in England or Canada?
B: To tell you the truth, I'd prefer .......... (not study) in either place. I'd rather .......... (go) to Australia because it's warmer there.
3. A: If you needed to learn a new skill, .......... you prefer .......... (attend) a class or .......... , (have) a private tutor?
B: I'd rather .......... (take) a class than .......... (hire) a tutor.
4. A: .......... you rather .......... (have) a job in an office or .......... (work) outdoors?
B: I'd definitely rather .......... (have) a job where I'm outdoors.
5 LISTENING Just for fun
Learning objectives: develop skills in listening for main ideas and details; listen to people’s experiences
A Listen to three people talk about the part-time courses they took recently. What course did each person take?
What course each person took What each person learned
1. Linda
2. Rich
3. Gwen
B Listen again. What additional information did each person learn?
LISTENING Do what you love
A Listen to a conversation between a student and his guidance counselor. Check ✅ the suggestions the guidance counselor gives.
⬜ talking to professors ⬜ volunteer work ⬜ more classes
⬜ job shadowing ⬜ informational interviews ⬜ internships
B Pair work If you could learn more about a job, what job would it be? Why? Which options above would you use?
LISTENING COURSE WORK Continuing Education Center
A PAIR WORK Look at the students at the Continuing Education Center.
What courses do you think they are interested in? Discuss your ideas.
B Listen to an advisor at the Continuing Education Center. Write two things you can learn in each course.
1. Photography: How to improve both _____________________ and _____________________ photography.
2. Web-page design: What goes into _____________________ and how to use a web page for _____________________.
C Listen again. Complete the chart.
Experience needed Course length
Photography
Web-page design
D GROUP WORK Discuss these questions.
1. Which course would you prefer to take? Why?
2. Would anybody in your family be interested in either of these courses? Why or why not?
6 SPEAKING Learn something new
A Group work Think of a personal or professional skill you would like to learn or improve. Discuss how you are planning to learn it.
A: I want to speak Italian. I think I'm going to take an online course.
B: It's hard to learn a language online. I think you should go to a language school.
A: I don't know. I'm really shy. I'd rather not have classes with other people.
C: You could . . .
B Class activity Share your ideas with your classmates. Who is going to learn something unusual? How are they going to learn it?
7 READING A Lifetime of Growth
How important do you think it is to keep learning new things throughout your life?
A Complete this chart with information about yourself. Add one idea of your own.
two foreign languages I'd like to speak
two musical instruments I'd like to play
two dances I'd like to learn
two types of cuisine I'd like to learn how to cook
two evening courses I'd like to take
two sports I'd like to play
two skills that I'd like to improve
two . . .
B Ask three classmates to help you choose the things you wrote down in part A. Write their recommendations in the chart.
foreign languages
musical instrument
dance
cuisine
evening course
sport
skills
_____
The English Advantage
How One Language Opens Doors to Endless Learning
Continuous learning involves acquiring knowledge and abilities over one's lifetime, with the aim of improving personal, societal, or professional skills and expertise. Studying English serves as a doorway to lifelong learning by granting access to a vast array of resources, information, and cultural experiences. English, being a global language extensively utilized in academia, business, and cross-cultural communication, opens avenues to diverse educational opportunities such as literature, media, and online resources. Proficiency in English not only facilitates continuous learning and personal development but also enhances individuals' capacity to engage with international communities, pursue advanced education or career prospects, and contribute to global dialogues, rendering it an invaluable asset on the journey of lifelong learning.
Lifelong learning is an enduring commitment to acquiring knowledge and honing skills throughout one's life, transcending formal education. It embodies a dedication to personal growth and development, fueled by curiosity, adaptability, and a thirst for self-improvement. Lifelong learners seize opportunities for learning in various contexts, embracing both formal courses and informal experiences. The pursuit of lifelong learning yields a myriad of advantages, including mental stimulation, personal enrichment, and professional advancement. Lifelong learners often report heightened confidence, sharpened problem-solving capabilities, and enhanced communication skills. Moreover, continuous learning fosters resilience and adaptability, equipping individuals with the tools to navigate life's changes and challenges effectively.
According to the passage what are the benefits of continuous learning?
Improved personal and professional skills
Increased access to information and resources
Enhanced communication skills
Boosted problem-solving abilities
Greater adaptability and resilience
Personal growth and development
Increased confidence
The world keeps changing - you'd rather be swept along or keep learning and surfing the wave?
You'd prefer to stay stuck in your comfort zone or keep growing by embracing new knowledge?
A good advice
Talk about what to learn, ways to learn, and personal qualities
A: I don't know if I'd rather speak Portuguese or Korean. What do you think?
B: Hmm. If I were you, I'd learn Portuguese.
A: Why Portuguese and not Korean?
A: Well, you already know Spanish, so Portuguese might be easier to learn.
Is it a good advice? Why or why not?
CYCLE 2 ▶ Discuss ways of learning, life skills and personal qualities using by + gerund for manner
8 CONVERSATION It works for me.
Learning objectives: practice giving advice on language learning; see by + gerund in context
A Listen and practice.
Marta: So how's your Mandarin class going?
Kevin: Harder than I expected, actually. I'm finding the pronunciation very difficult.
Marta: Well, I imagine it takes a while to get it right. You know, you could improve your accent by watching movies.
Kevin: That's a good idea. But how do you learn new vocabulary? I always seem to forget new word.
Marta: I learn new English words best by writing them down and reviewing them many times. I've been using this vocabulary-building app. It really works for me. Look.
Kevin: Hmm. Maybe I should try something like that!
B Listen to two other students, Rick and Nia, explain how they learn new words. Who uses technology to study? Who organizes words by category?
C Class activity How do you learn new words in a foreign language?
8 CONVERSATION Maybe I should try that!
9 GRAMMAR POINT By + gerund to describe how to do things
Learning objective: practice by + gerund to describe how to do things
You could improve your accent by watching movies.
I learn new words best by writing them down and reviewing them many times.
The best way to learn slang is not by watching the news but by watching TV series.
A How can you improve your English? Complete the sentences with by and the gerund form of the verbs. Then compare with a partner.
1. A good way to learn idiom is _____ (watch) American sitcoms.
2. The best way to practice what you have learned is _____ (use) it in messages or conversation.
3. Students can become better writers _____ (read) more.
4. You can learn to use grammar correctly _____ (do) grammar exercises online.
5. The best way to develop self-confidence in communication is _____ (talk) with native speakers.
6. You can improve your accent _____ (listen) to songs and singing along.
7. A good way to memorize new vocabulary is _____ (play) vocabulary games.
LEARNING A LANGUAGE
A Complete the sentences. Use by + gerund and the phrases in the box.
✅ keep a vocabulary notebook ⬜ take every chance to speak it
⬜ look them up in the dictionary ⬜ use a grammar reference book
⬜ read articles online ⬜ watch movies in English
1. A good way to become fluent in a language is by taking every chance to speak it .
2. You can find out the meaning of new words _______________________________.
3. You can check your grammar _______________________________.
4. You can improve your listening _______________________________.
5. You can become a better reader _______________________________.
6. A good way to expand your vocabulary is _______________________________.
B Choose three sentence beginnings from part A. Complete them with your own ideas.
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
CHOICES
A What choices do you prefer? Complete the You column in the chart.
A sport you would like to try
A country you would like to visit
A person you would like to meet
A skill you would like to learn
An instrument you would like to play
Choices
snowboarding or surfing
South Africa or New Zealand
Jennifer Lopez or Brad Pitt
cooking or car repair
violin or piano
You
Your partner
B Pair work Ask about your partner’s preferences. Write the answers in the Your partner column.
A: Would you rather try snowboarding or surfing?
B: I’d rather try snowboarding. I think it’s more exciting. How about you?
A: I’d prefer to try surfing because I love the water!
10 DISCUSSION Learning styles
Learning objective: discuss learning and practice the vocabulary
A Listen to James and Sophia describe how they developed two skills. How did they learn? Complete the chart.
James Sophia
1. become an effective public speaker
2. learn to drive
B Group work How would you learn to do the things in the chart?
C Group work Talk about different ways to learn to do each of these activities. Then agree on the most effective method.
take professional-looking photos
manage your time
cook
become a good conversationalist
break dance
swim
play a musical instrument
DISCUSSION Ways of learning
A First, discuss how you would learn to do the things in the chart. Then listen to Todd and Lucy describe how they developed these skills. How did they learn?
Todd Lucy
1. become a good cook
2. become a good conversationalist
B Group work Talk about the best ways to learn each of these activities. Then agree on the most effective method.
dance better
ride a motorcycle
write a short story
use a new software program
play a musical instrument
be a good public speaker
11 Personal Qualities Quiz
Learning objectives: learn nouns to describe personal qualities; discuss what can be learned from doing specific activities
12 WRITING A short speech
Learning objective: write a short speech about a skill, hobby, or craft
13 READING Learning Styles
Learning objectives: develop skills in understanding vocabulary in context and reading for specific information; develop discussion skills; read a magazine article
14 WRITING Article with reasons, explanations, and examples
Before You Write
A Read the article. Where might you find an article like this?
Why Getting a Good Education Matters
Just like a delicious meal nourishes your body, a good education nourishes your mind. It equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in life. But what exactly makes an education "good"?
Three key ingredients
Curiosity and Exploration - A good education goes beyond memorizing facts. It ignites your curiosity and encourages you to explore different subjects. It provides opportunities to ask questions, experiment, and discover new things. Imagine a classroom where you can dissect a frog in biology, conduct a chemistry experiment that makes colors erupt, or debate the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in a social studies class. This kind of active learning fosters a love for discovery and a lifelong thirst for knowledge.
Critical Thinking and Problem - Solving - In today's complex world, simply having information isn't enough. A good education teaches you how to analyze information critically, think for yourself, and solve problems creatively. Imagine tackling a math problem with multiple approaches, or writing a persuasive essay that challenges a common assumption. By grappling with complex ideas and developing strong reasoning skills, you'll be prepared to tackle any challenge that comes your way.
Communication and Collaboration - The ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with others is essential for success in almost any field. A good education provides opportunities to develop these skills through group projects, presentations, and discussions. Imagine working with a team to create a documentary about climate change, or participating in a mock debate where you represent a historical figure. Through these experiences, you'll learn how to express your ideas clearly, listen attentively to others, and work together to achieve a common goal.
By prioritizing these elements, a good education empowers you to not only succeed in your chosen field but also become a well-rounded, engaged citizen of the world.
B Complete the chart
Reason
1. Curiosity and exploration
2. Critical thinking and problem solving
3. Communication and collaboration
Explanation
Ignites a love for learning and discovery
Develop strong reasoning and analytical skills
Teaches effective communication and teamwork
Example
Dissection in biology, chemistry experiments, debates about AI and social media.
Solving math problems and multiple approaches, writing persuasive essays
Group project presentations, discussions
Check
Your First Draft
A Choose a topic below or think of your own topic. Make a chart with important factors. Give reasons or examples.
getting a job continuing education
diving into knowledge learning a new language
B Write an article. Use the information in your chart and the article above as a model.
C PAIR WORK Read your partner’s article. Write answers to these questions.
1. Are the reasons clear?
2. Do the explanations and examples support the factors?
3. Can you suggest any improvements to the content or grammar?
Your Second Draft
Use your partner’s answers to revise your article.
10 benefits or continuous learning
Improved personal and professional skills Through continuous learning, you can gain new knowledge and abilities, which can make you a more skilled and valuable person in both your personal life and professional career. [1]
Increased access to information and resources Continuous learning helps you discover resources you might not have known about before, like vast amounts of information and cultural experiences available in English. [1]
Enhanced communication skills As you learn new things and engage with different people and ideas, your communication skills naturally improve. [3]
Boosted problem-solving abilities The constant process of learning helps you develop your problem-solving muscles, making you better equipped to tackle challenges. [3]
Greater adaptability and resilience By continuously learning, you stay up-to-date and develop the ability to adapt to change, which is crucial in today's world. [3]
Personal growth and development Continuous learning fosters a sense of curiosity and a desire for self-improvement, leading to personal growth and development. [3]
Increased confidence As you gain knowledge and skills, your confidence naturally increases. [3]
Exposure to diverse educational opportunities Continuous learning opens doors to a wider range of educational opportunities, like online resources, literature, and media. [1]
Engagement with international communities Proficiency in languages like English allows you to connect and participate in conversations with people from around the world. [1]
Career advancement New skills and knowledge can make you a more attractive candidate for promotions or new job opportunities. [1]
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