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Academic English

“Library Tour”

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Level: Topic: Speakers: Length:
intermediate tape recording man 01:22

Pre-Listening Exercise

Write down as many different types of resources and services you can find at a library (e.g., magazines, copy service, etc.). If you had to write a research paper on African lions, what steps would you take to find information at the library (without using the Internet)?

Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!

These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.

  • In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.

  • In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?

  • For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and self-assess your progress.

  1. It’s faster to find good information online than in a library.
  2. Libraries are more reliable than the Internet for academic research.
  3. Most students don’t need libraries anymore.
  4. Searching online teaches better research skills than using a library.
  5. Libraries are quieter and better for studying than home.
  6. Online sources are often more up to date than books in libraries.
  7. Using both online sources and libraries is the best approach.
  8. It’s easier to get distracted online than in a library.
  9. Library staff are more helpful than search engines.
  10. Digital libraries will eventually replace physical libraries.

Idioms

“thumb through” = look casually at
“I thumbed through a number of books related to my research topic, but I didn’t find what I needed.”

“bite off more than you can chew” = try to do more than you can accomplish
“I think you’ve bit off more than you can chew in this case. Trying to write a research paper on the history of civilization in one week is really impossible.”

Listening Exercise

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Post-Listening Exercise

What online libraries and resources have you used instead of visiting a library at your school or in the local community?

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