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General Listening Quiz

“Our Family Roots”

Level Topic Speakers Length
Intermediate Family History Man 01:17
Photograph of Ana Maria Cavazos

Pre-Listening Exercise

Doing your genealogy or family history is an exciting way of learning about your past. Now, watch a short documentary of Randall’s family roots. What details would you expect to hear about the life of Randall’s grandmother, Ana Maria Cavazos?

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.

  1. Knowing your family history is important for understanding your health.
  2. Family history influences personality more than environment.
  3. People should research their ancestry even if it is expensive or difficult.
  4. Family traditions are more important than creating your own new traditions.
  5. Learning about family history can cause unnecessary stress.
  6. Genetic testing is better than asking relatives about family history.
  7. Family history is less important in modern life than in the past.
  8. People should share family history with children from a young age.
  9. Knowing your family’s financial history is as important as medical history.
  10. Family history should guide major life decisions, like career or health choices.

Listening Exercise

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Post-Listening Exercise

Collect information on one of your ancestors by interviewing relatives and prepare a short presentation. Details could include:

  • where the person was born
  • the names and occupations of his or her parents
  • childhood and early family experiences
  • the person’s educational background
  • his or her work history
  • the person’s hobbies and interests

Online Investigation

What do you know about your own family history? Use the internet to see if you can find information about these topics:

  1. What is the origin of your family name?
  2. Where is the hometown of your grandparents and great-grandparents?
  3. What online resources are available to help you find the names of your ancestors?

Try More Free Listening at Dailyesl.com