| Level |
Topic |
Speakers |
Length |
| Intermediate |
Computers |
Man – Man |
01:19 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
What are the most important computer or technical skills needed in the following jobs: (1) teacher, (2) auto mechanic, (3) engineer, (4) doctor, (5) store manager, and (6) architect. Explain your reasons.
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 check your progress.
- Computer jobs are much easier than traditional office jobs.
- People in computer jobs sacrifice their health because they work too many hours.
- Programming is more valuable than design in tech companies.
- Everyone should be required to learn basic coding, even if they don’t plan a computer career.
- Remote work makes computer jobs more productive than in-person work.
- Computer jobs are less stressful than other professional jobs.
- Artificial intelligence will take away more jobs in tech than it creates.
- AI is a bigger threat to computer workers than to people in other professions.
- People in computer jobs are overpaid compared to workers in other industries.
- AI is making creativity more valuable than technical skills in computer jobs.
Idioms
“odd jobs” = different jobs
“He had a number of odd jobs before he was hired as a computer programmer.”
“land a job” = succeed in getting a job
“She was able to land a job with a very prestigious computer company.”
Listening Exercise
A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.
[ Although this conversation was recorded years ago, it is still a fun and interesting topic. ]
Post-Listening Exercise
Discuss these questions:
- Do you think Mr. Taylor prepared for this interview? Why or why not?
- What could Mr. Taylor have said to make a better impression, even if he didn’t have all the skills?
- If you were the interviewer, what advice would you give Mr. Taylor for his next interview?
Online Investigation
Having some background in computers can make a major difference in your ability to land a good job in some fields. Imagine you want to learn more about computers to improve your job skills. Search the internet for online schools that offer computer training. Compare the cost, types of courses, and class requirements for two schools. Report on your findings.