ANACHRONISM (n.)
The false assignment of an event, person, scene or •language to a time when the event, person, scene, or word did not exist
Northern Renaissance artists often included ANACHRONISMS in their paintings. For example, Last Supper by the 15th century artist Dirk Bouts shows Christ and his disciples eating in a royal palace in what is today Belgium. While the ANACHRONISM in Bouts’ painting is deliberate, the ANACHRONISMS in modern movies are unplanned blunders. For example, in the Civil War movie Glory, a digital watch is clearly visible on the wrist of a boy waving goodbye to the black soldiers of the 54th Massachusetts Regiment. And in the movie Gladiator, you can see a gas cylinder in the back of one of the overturned "Roman" chariots!
Quick Quiz:
To set up the background scene for the play, we should stick to the period to which the events in the play occur; in fact, any anachronisms, would —---------.
A. make our product more valuable
B. elicit favorable critiques
C. lower the effect of our work
Answer: C
@ibtil
The false assignment of an event, person, scene or •language to a time when the event, person, scene, or word did not exist
Northern Renaissance artists often included ANACHRONISMS in their paintings. For example, Last Supper by the 15th century artist Dirk Bouts shows Christ and his disciples eating in a royal palace in what is today Belgium. While the ANACHRONISM in Bouts’ painting is deliberate, the ANACHRONISMS in modern movies are unplanned blunders. For example, in the Civil War movie Glory, a digital watch is clearly visible on the wrist of a boy waving goodbye to the black soldiers of the 54th Massachusetts Regiment. And in the movie Gladiator, you can see a gas cylinder in the back of one of the overturned "Roman" chariots!
Quick Quiz:
To set up the background scene for the play, we should stick to the period to which the events in the play occur; in fact, any anachronisms, would —---------.
A. make our product more valuable
B. elicit favorable critiques
C. lower the effect of our work
Answer: C
@ibtil
Writing Topic: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: One quality that a successful leader must have is to make decisions quickly; when a leader takes too much time to make decisions, he will be seen as ineffective to the people he leads.
Sample Essay:
Of all the skills that contribute to a leader’s success, such as confidence, tenacity and keen insight, the ability to make wise decisions has always been regarded as an indispensable quality. While there are circumstances in which excellence is determined by how quickly the leader makes decisions, I do believe that, most of time, taking time to make decisions will not be seen as ineffective since good judgments always require deliberation and full-scale evaluation.
Indeed, in a few cases, a successful leader must make decisions quickly in response to the ever-changing outside environment. Especially in the commercial industry, a prominent leader ought to capture the most transient economic opportunities before its rivals in order to dominate the market. For instance, the social networks in my country were not well developed five years ago. My uncle, who was the CEO of a computer software company, keenly realized the great potentials of the development of social networks and shifted the company’s focus to this area before any other competitors. As a result, the first social networking system, developed by his company, won tremendous success; his company now ranks top 10 in the nation.
However, for the majority of leaders, making decisions requires careful weighing of the pros and cons; thus, it is plausible that it takes time to make up one’s mind. Because most decisions have long-lasting and profound influence on the lives of others, making decisions quickly would be considered hasty in most cases. At the end of the World War II, the US president faced a dilemma; should the US drop the atomic bomb to force Japan to surrender? Being a successful leader, he did not settle on the issue rapidly; instead, he organized numerous meetings with his consultants, asked the opinions of allied countries, and considered both the advantages and the downsides of his decision back and forth for days. The dropping of the atomic bombs, though still controversial today, finally brought the bloody and destructive war to an end.
Furthermore, a thoughtful leader should not jump to the conclusion to an issue because decisions often may incur a heavy cost. If decisions are made in a short period of time, they mostly lack deliberation and ignore the high expenses of such an action. For example, implementation of social welfare is considered a slow process. It may take a president some years to finally carry out such a fundamental government project to provide aids for housing, food and medical care for people who live below the poverty line. The president has to realize the high cost of the social welfare and its pressure on the tax payers. Therefore, it may take a president a lot of time to weigh the true values of this program in comparison to its high price.
In brief, I do believe that despite few circumstances, a successful leader should take time to make final decisions and should not be considered ineffective for such deliberation, for careful judgments of the costs and effects are required. @aalaeeTOEFLiBT
Sample Essay:
Of all the skills that contribute to a leader’s success, such as confidence, tenacity and keen insight, the ability to make wise decisions has always been regarded as an indispensable quality. While there are circumstances in which excellence is determined by how quickly the leader makes decisions, I do believe that, most of time, taking time to make decisions will not be seen as ineffective since good judgments always require deliberation and full-scale evaluation.
Indeed, in a few cases, a successful leader must make decisions quickly in response to the ever-changing outside environment. Especially in the commercial industry, a prominent leader ought to capture the most transient economic opportunities before its rivals in order to dominate the market. For instance, the social networks in my country were not well developed five years ago. My uncle, who was the CEO of a computer software company, keenly realized the great potentials of the development of social networks and shifted the company’s focus to this area before any other competitors. As a result, the first social networking system, developed by his company, won tremendous success; his company now ranks top 10 in the nation.
However, for the majority of leaders, making decisions requires careful weighing of the pros and cons; thus, it is plausible that it takes time to make up one’s mind. Because most decisions have long-lasting and profound influence on the lives of others, making decisions quickly would be considered hasty in most cases. At the end of the World War II, the US president faced a dilemma; should the US drop the atomic bomb to force Japan to surrender? Being a successful leader, he did not settle on the issue rapidly; instead, he organized numerous meetings with his consultants, asked the opinions of allied countries, and considered both the advantages and the downsides of his decision back and forth for days. The dropping of the atomic bombs, though still controversial today, finally brought the bloody and destructive war to an end.
Furthermore, a thoughtful leader should not jump to the conclusion to an issue because decisions often may incur a heavy cost. If decisions are made in a short period of time, they mostly lack deliberation and ignore the high expenses of such an action. For example, implementation of social welfare is considered a slow process. It may take a president some years to finally carry out such a fundamental government project to provide aids for housing, food and medical care for people who live below the poverty line. The president has to realize the high cost of the social welfare and its pressure on the tax payers. Therefore, it may take a president a lot of time to weigh the true values of this program in comparison to its high price.
In brief, I do believe that despite few circumstances, a successful leader should take time to make final decisions and should not be considered ineffective for such deliberation, for careful judgments of the costs and effects are required. @aalaeeTOEFLiBT
FUTILE (adj.)
Completely useless; doomed to failure
The Deepwater Horizon oil spill released a PRODIGIOUS (huge, massive) flood of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico. BP engineers made repeated attempts to control or stop the spill. However, all of their initial efforts proved to be FUTILE. Although crews worked tirelessly to protect hundreds of miles of beaches, wetlands, and estuaries local residents worried that these efforts would also prove to be FUTILE.
Quick Quiz
Futile attempts at farming and failure to continue successful fisheries (due to the silting of harbors and marine disasters offshore) —--------.
A. were praised by all the town’s residents
B. was the cause of the mayor’s reelection
C. led to the town's decline
Answer: C
@ibtil
Completely useless; doomed to failure
The Deepwater Horizon oil spill released a PRODIGIOUS (huge, massive) flood of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico. BP engineers made repeated attempts to control or stop the spill. However, all of their initial efforts proved to be FUTILE. Although crews worked tirelessly to protect hundreds of miles of beaches, wetlands, and estuaries local residents worried that these efforts would also prove to be FUTILE.
Quick Quiz
Futile attempts at farming and failure to continue successful fisheries (due to the silting of harbors and marine disasters offshore) —--------.
A. were praised by all the town’s residents
B. was the cause of the mayor’s reelection
C. led to the town's decline
Answer: C
@ibtil
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Dancing
• Do you dance? When was the last time you danced?
To be honest, I don’t really know how to dance, but I remember last summer I went to a party and danced with some friends. I think dancing is a good way to exercise and make friends.
Why do people like dance?
Some people like to dance because they think it’s a good way to exercise. Dancing can help them keep in shape and stay healthy. Others like dance because they like the passion or excitement or take it as a good way to make friends.
• What do you feel when you watch dancing programs on TV?
Those dancers are really in perfect shapes, their movements are graceful. But sometimes I find too many similar activities on TV, which decreases my interest.
• Do you like to watch dance performances?
Yes. I sometimes watch dance performances on TV. When I was a child, I would always get excited when I saw them dance on TV and wanted to learn from them.
• Have you ever learned to dance?
Not really, but I think I should learn in the future because dance can help us stay healthy and make friends. It’s a very good way to make our life more colorful.
• Is it important to learn how to dance?
I think learning how to dance is important. Dance is an art form used as a form of expression, social interaction or presented in a spiritual or performance setting. Many social dances are partner dances, which is an important way to get socialized in some formal situations. If we learn some traditional dances, we can understand our cultural value even better. It’s also believed that dancing is a great way to exercise our muscles and keep us fit. Because of so many benefits, it’s hard to say that we don’t want to learn it.
• Do you dance? When was the last time you danced?
To be honest, I don’t really know how to dance, but I remember last summer I went to a party and danced with some friends. I think dancing is a good way to exercise and make friends.
Why do people like dance?
Some people like to dance because they think it’s a good way to exercise. Dancing can help them keep in shape and stay healthy. Others like dance because they like the passion or excitement or take it as a good way to make friends.
• What do you feel when you watch dancing programs on TV?
Those dancers are really in perfect shapes, their movements are graceful. But sometimes I find too many similar activities on TV, which decreases my interest.
• Do you like to watch dance performances?
Yes. I sometimes watch dance performances on TV. When I was a child, I would always get excited when I saw them dance on TV and wanted to learn from them.
• Have you ever learned to dance?
Not really, but I think I should learn in the future because dance can help us stay healthy and make friends. It’s a very good way to make our life more colorful.
• Is it important to learn how to dance?
I think learning how to dance is important. Dance is an art form used as a form of expression, social interaction or presented in a spiritual or performance setting. Many social dances are partner dances, which is an important way to get socialized in some formal situations. If we learn some traditional dances, we can understand our cultural value even better. It’s also believed that dancing is a great way to exercise our muscles and keep us fit. Because of so many benefits, it’s hard to say that we don’t want to learn it.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Books & Reading
• Do you like reading (books)? (Why?/Why not?)
I used to, but now I’m busy all the time, so I don’t spend a lot of time reading. I used to read novels and they could help me enrich my life.
• What books did you like when you were a child? What about now?
Same to above
• What (kinds of ) books do you like to read?
I used to read novels and they could make my life more colorful. When I read novels, I always feel I’m in a different world.
• For children, what do you think are the benefits of reading?
They can learn knowledge and develop their imagination. I learned many fictional characters from reading when I was a child. I love history books. Through them, I learn a lot of history knowledge.
• Would you like to write a book?
I always want to but it’s not an easy thing to do. Maybe when I’m old, I can write my own biography to share my own stories with others.
• Do you like receiving a book as a gift?
Yes, I think it’s nice to get a book as a gift. I also like giving other people books as gifts. It’s a great thing to share what we like with our good friends.
• What books did you like to read in your childhood?
When I was a child, I loved cartoon books because the vivid illustrations could always make me feel that the stories were alive in front of me. I still remember the book my mom bought me when I was five. It’s called Jack and the Beanstalk. I still remember all the details in that book.
• Do you like reading (books)? (Why?/Why not?)
I used to, but now I’m busy all the time, so I don’t spend a lot of time reading. I used to read novels and they could help me enrich my life.
• What books did you like when you were a child? What about now?
Same to above
• What (kinds of ) books do you like to read?
I used to read novels and they could make my life more colorful. When I read novels, I always feel I’m in a different world.
• For children, what do you think are the benefits of reading?
They can learn knowledge and develop their imagination. I learned many fictional characters from reading when I was a child. I love history books. Through them, I learn a lot of history knowledge.
• Would you like to write a book?
I always want to but it’s not an easy thing to do. Maybe when I’m old, I can write my own biography to share my own stories with others.
• Do you like receiving a book as a gift?
Yes, I think it’s nice to get a book as a gift. I also like giving other people books as gifts. It’s a great thing to share what we like with our good friends.
• What books did you like to read in your childhood?
When I was a child, I loved cartoon books because the vivid illustrations could always make me feel that the stories were alive in front of me. I still remember the book my mom bought me when I was five. It’s called Jack and the Beanstalk. I still remember all the details in that book.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Colors
• What's your favorite color? (Why?)
I like many colors and my favorite color is green because it’s the color of nature. When I buy something, I tend to choose green ones because this color can make me feel relaxed and comfortable.
• Do you usually (or, always) wear clothes in your favorite color?
Yes, although I like other colors too, I tend to choose green if I have the choice.
• What color would you choose to paint the walls of your room?
I would paint my walls light green because my favorite color is green. It’s the color of our nature. Green can make me feel relaxed and comfortable.
• What kind of color do you dislike?
I don’t like very bright colors, such as yellow or red because they can make me feel a little dizzy. Also, I think bright color clothes are more difficult to match. I prefer colors that are softer and are easy to match other colors. So I would usually buy clothes that are not too bright.
• What color did you like in your childhood?
When I was a child, I was fond of the blue color, coz I liked the blue sky, which would always make me feel relaxed and delighted. And I liked the blue sea water, coz it reminded me of my being tiny in the world. However, these days, it is not so easy for me to see the blue sky since it is always gray, and I have few chances to go to the sea because life in the city is so busy for me.
• What colors do Iranian people dislike?
Black is the color used in funerals, so a lot of people don’t like this color.
• What's your favorite color? (Why?)
I like many colors and my favorite color is green because it’s the color of nature. When I buy something, I tend to choose green ones because this color can make me feel relaxed and comfortable.
• Do you usually (or, always) wear clothes in your favorite color?
Yes, although I like other colors too, I tend to choose green if I have the choice.
• What color would you choose to paint the walls of your room?
I would paint my walls light green because my favorite color is green. It’s the color of our nature. Green can make me feel relaxed and comfortable.
• What kind of color do you dislike?
I don’t like very bright colors, such as yellow or red because they can make me feel a little dizzy. Also, I think bright color clothes are more difficult to match. I prefer colors that are softer and are easy to match other colors. So I would usually buy clothes that are not too bright.
• What color did you like in your childhood?
When I was a child, I was fond of the blue color, coz I liked the blue sky, which would always make me feel relaxed and delighted. And I liked the blue sea water, coz it reminded me of my being tiny in the world. However, these days, it is not so easy for me to see the blue sky since it is always gray, and I have few chances to go to the sea because life in the city is so busy for me.
• What colors do Iranian people dislike?
Black is the color used in funerals, so a lot of people don’t like this color.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Swimming
• Can you swim?
Yes, not very good though. I learned it at a swimming pool near my home when I was in middle school. At first, I felt it was very difficult, so I even bought a book about swimming. Finally, I realized that I could swim. Now it has become very easy to me and I always go swimming, especially in summer.
• Do you like swimming?
Yeah. I think swimming is a very good way to exercise and keep me fit. When I swim, I would feel that I’m like a fish. I usually swim at the swimming pool near my home or go to the beach.
• Have you ever been trained in swimming?
Yes, my parents enrolled me in a swimming lesson at the swimming pool near my home when I was in middle school. The coach I had was very nice and she gave me a lot of encouragement. Now I could do freestyle and butterfly stroke swimming.
• Is it important to learn swimming?
Definitely. We all know swimming is a good way to exercise our body. When we face disasters or emergencies involving water, swimming can also help us get away from dangers.
• Would you rather swim in the sea or swimming pools?
It’s a dilemma. I like swimming in the sea because it makes me feel close to nature and there’s more space for me to stretch my arms and legs. However, if I have my private swimming pool, I’d love to swim in it because the water is fresh and shallow so I can enjoy my time without worrying about being drowned or the taste of the salty water.
• When did you learn to swim?
I learned to swim when I was in middle school. At that time, there were often reports of children drowning in water, so my father sent me to a swimming school, hoping that I could be free from the threats of drowning in water.
• Where do you like to swim?
I have never tried to swim in some other places but the swimming pools. However, it now seems not interesting to always swim in the swimming pool. I hope one day I can swim in the natural environment, such as the shallow sea or some rivers. I think that will be more interesting.
• What should children pay attention to when they are learning swimming?
Well, when they are learning swimming, there must be someone there to look after them, in case emergencies happen. Also, they should be brave enough to bury their head under water, so that they can learn to swim quickly.
• Which one is safer, swimming pools or the sea near the beach?
Of course, swimming pools are safer because the water is usually shallower and there are always some lifeguards watching the people who are swimming. Comparatively, the ocean is so big and deep and it’s very hard to predict what might happen in the next minute. So we should be very careful when we swim in the ocean.
• Can you swim?
Yes, not very good though. I learned it at a swimming pool near my home when I was in middle school. At first, I felt it was very difficult, so I even bought a book about swimming. Finally, I realized that I could swim. Now it has become very easy to me and I always go swimming, especially in summer.
• Do you like swimming?
Yeah. I think swimming is a very good way to exercise and keep me fit. When I swim, I would feel that I’m like a fish. I usually swim at the swimming pool near my home or go to the beach.
• Have you ever been trained in swimming?
Yes, my parents enrolled me in a swimming lesson at the swimming pool near my home when I was in middle school. The coach I had was very nice and she gave me a lot of encouragement. Now I could do freestyle and butterfly stroke swimming.
• Is it important to learn swimming?
Definitely. We all know swimming is a good way to exercise our body. When we face disasters or emergencies involving water, swimming can also help us get away from dangers.
• Would you rather swim in the sea or swimming pools?
It’s a dilemma. I like swimming in the sea because it makes me feel close to nature and there’s more space for me to stretch my arms and legs. However, if I have my private swimming pool, I’d love to swim in it because the water is fresh and shallow so I can enjoy my time without worrying about being drowned or the taste of the salty water.
• When did you learn to swim?
I learned to swim when I was in middle school. At that time, there were often reports of children drowning in water, so my father sent me to a swimming school, hoping that I could be free from the threats of drowning in water.
• Where do you like to swim?
I have never tried to swim in some other places but the swimming pools. However, it now seems not interesting to always swim in the swimming pool. I hope one day I can swim in the natural environment, such as the shallow sea or some rivers. I think that will be more interesting.
• What should children pay attention to when they are learning swimming?
Well, when they are learning swimming, there must be someone there to look after them, in case emergencies happen. Also, they should be brave enough to bury their head under water, so that they can learn to swim quickly.
• Which one is safer, swimming pools or the sea near the beach?
Of course, swimming pools are safer because the water is usually shallower and there are always some lifeguards watching the people who are swimming. Comparatively, the ocean is so big and deep and it’s very hard to predict what might happen in the next minute. So we should be very careful when we swim in the ocean.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Photography
• Do you like taking photos?
Yes, I do. I think photography is a great invention because we can keep our memories through photos we take. I always take my camera with me when I go on a trip or have some big events with friends or family. I keep all my pictures on my computer and it’s nice to look at them during my spare time. I can recall many things.
• Do people in Iran like to take photos?
Yes, I think so. You could see a lot of Iranian people taking pictures at tourist sites. Also, we take pictures of new born babies to track their growing process. For students, they’ll have their pictures taken during graduation time and usually people will keep these photos for the rest of their lives. Pictures can help us keep good memories and even document historical events.
• What kinds of photos do you like?
I like a wide range of photos, such as people, buildings, natural beauty, and animals. I think different pictures can show us different dimensions of life. If we don’t get to go to our dream city, photos can help us see what is there and what the people are like. Photos can also be used as great visual aids if we need to demonstrate something or make our points clear.
• Do you like to take photographs when you are visiting new places?
Yes. Every time when I visit some new places, I would take a lot of pictures there. I would take photos about beautiful scenery, attractive events, and interesting people. You know, all these leave me very good memories of the places I visit.
• What is the most impressive photo to you?
One most impressive photo I have ever taken was the photo I took last year when I had a visit to the north. In that picture, a male bird was protecting and trying to save his dying mate. He even forgot the safety of himself. Because when I approached him, he did not fly away but tried to drag his mate away. Every time I look at this photo, I would be moved by the true love shown by the bird.
• Why some people dislike taking photos of themselves?
Well, they may be some introverted people and they may feel shy to be recorded in the photos. Also, some people who are not self-confident, may also be reluctant to have their photos taken, for fear that they may leave a poor impression.
• Why some people like to take photos of themselves?
Well, they may be too confident in themselves, and they hope their charm can be left on the photos to be enjoyed by others. Besides, when some people are happy with their experience and hope to have a record, they may like to have their photos taken, so that someday the photos can remind them of their happy time.
• Do you like taking photos?
Yes, I do. I think photography is a great invention because we can keep our memories through photos we take. I always take my camera with me when I go on a trip or have some big events with friends or family. I keep all my pictures on my computer and it’s nice to look at them during my spare time. I can recall many things.
• Do people in Iran like to take photos?
Yes, I think so. You could see a lot of Iranian people taking pictures at tourist sites. Also, we take pictures of new born babies to track their growing process. For students, they’ll have their pictures taken during graduation time and usually people will keep these photos for the rest of their lives. Pictures can help us keep good memories and even document historical events.
• What kinds of photos do you like?
I like a wide range of photos, such as people, buildings, natural beauty, and animals. I think different pictures can show us different dimensions of life. If we don’t get to go to our dream city, photos can help us see what is there and what the people are like. Photos can also be used as great visual aids if we need to demonstrate something or make our points clear.
• Do you like to take photographs when you are visiting new places?
Yes. Every time when I visit some new places, I would take a lot of pictures there. I would take photos about beautiful scenery, attractive events, and interesting people. You know, all these leave me very good memories of the places I visit.
• What is the most impressive photo to you?
One most impressive photo I have ever taken was the photo I took last year when I had a visit to the north. In that picture, a male bird was protecting and trying to save his dying mate. He even forgot the safety of himself. Because when I approached him, he did not fly away but tried to drag his mate away. Every time I look at this photo, I would be moved by the true love shown by the bird.
• Why some people dislike taking photos of themselves?
Well, they may be some introverted people and they may feel shy to be recorded in the photos. Also, some people who are not self-confident, may also be reluctant to have their photos taken, for fear that they may leave a poor impression.
• Why some people like to take photos of themselves?
Well, they may be too confident in themselves, and they hope their charm can be left on the photos to be enjoyed by others. Besides, when some people are happy with their experience and hope to have a record, they may like to have their photos taken, so that someday the photos can remind them of their happy time.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Computer
• Do you like using the computer?
Definitely. I think the computer has become an important part in my life. I use it to do my homework (work), get on the internet to do research and get some entertainment as well. I can’t imagine what my life will be like if I don’t have the computer.
• Do you use the computer often?
Yes. I spend almost more than five hours a day on my computer. I use the computer to get online and do my homework (work). Of course, I also play games and chat with friends occasionally. However, sometimes I tend to spend too much time on the computer, which is not good for my eyes and my spine. I think I should try not to use the computer all the time.
• What do you use the computer for?
Many things. I get on the internet to search for information, read news, and even chat with my friends. I also store all my digital photos on my computer so that I don’t have to go to a photo studio to print them out. When I need to write a paper, I’ll use word and print my paper when I finish it. It’s much neater than hand written ones.
• What does computer mean to you?
Computer means a lot to me. It makes my life convenient and helps me to get up-to-date information. It’s a great way for me to entertain myself. I could play games, read electronic books, and chat with my friends. If my computer is broken, my life will be much more different and difficult, I guess.
• How do you think about the advertisements online?
I think a lot of advertisements online are annoying, especially the pop out ones. They could block what you’re viewing and you have to click them to make them disappear. I think there should be some laws to regulate the ways advertisements are shown on the internet.
• Do you like using the computer?
Definitely. I think the computer has become an important part in my life. I use it to do my homework (work), get on the internet to do research and get some entertainment as well. I can’t imagine what my life will be like if I don’t have the computer.
• Do you use the computer often?
Yes. I spend almost more than five hours a day on my computer. I use the computer to get online and do my homework (work). Of course, I also play games and chat with friends occasionally. However, sometimes I tend to spend too much time on the computer, which is not good for my eyes and my spine. I think I should try not to use the computer all the time.
• What do you use the computer for?
Many things. I get on the internet to search for information, read news, and even chat with my friends. I also store all my digital photos on my computer so that I don’t have to go to a photo studio to print them out. When I need to write a paper, I’ll use word and print my paper when I finish it. It’s much neater than hand written ones.
• What does computer mean to you?
Computer means a lot to me. It makes my life convenient and helps me to get up-to-date information. It’s a great way for me to entertain myself. I could play games, read electronic books, and chat with my friends. If my computer is broken, my life will be much more different and difficult, I guess.
• How do you think about the advertisements online?
I think a lot of advertisements online are annoying, especially the pop out ones. They could block what you’re viewing and you have to click them to make them disappear. I think there should be some laws to regulate the ways advertisements are shown on the internet.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Exercise/Workout
• What sports do old people like in your country?
A lot of old people love going to the park to do some soft sports. Sometimes, they go to some nearby mountains to go hiking. I think all these activities are good for the old to stretch their bodies and stay fit.
• Do you exercise regularly?
I try my best to exercise more, but not regular enough. I sometimes go jogging in the evening because it’s really hard to get up early in the morning. Occasionally, I go to the nearby indoor swimming pool to swim. I think swimming is a good way to exercise almost every muscle in my body.
• Do you think daily exercise is good for people?
Definitely. If we don’t do enough exercise, even young people can feel sick and tired all the time. Exercise can help us stay fit, and it’s also a good way to release the pressure from work and studies. I think we should exercise regularly.
• What can exercise bring to different age groups?
For children, if they exercise enough, they will grow strong and tall. For young adults, exercise is a good way to stretch the body after sitting in front of the computer for several hours and it can also make people feel relaxed. If old people exercise often, they can stay healthy and live a long life.
• What outdoor activities do you like?
I like many different outdoor activities. I go jogging in the evening if
I don’t have the companion. If I could find enough people, I love group sports, such as basketball, volleyball, and football. It’s also enjoyable to play badminton or table tennis with one partner.
• Were you active when you were a child?
I would say I was very active when I was a child. I never felt tired of playing. I was very energetic and spent most of my after school time on playing outdoor activities. I think tag, hide-and-seek, and rope jumping were very popular at that time, so I would play them all the time.
• What outdoor activities do people in your city like?
There’re a lot of. Some people love cycling with a group of people and they join a biking club. Some people love going to the gym to play badminton, tennis, or table tennis. Also, some others love to go swimming. I think different people have different ways to exercise.
• Would you say you’re an active person?
I think I was an active child, but I changed when I reached puberty. Now I stay a lot of time at home in front of the computer. I think it’s not good because too much indoor activities can make our bodies less healthy. I should work out more in the future and try to do sports regularly.
• What sports do old people like in your country?
A lot of old people love going to the park to do some soft sports. Sometimes, they go to some nearby mountains to go hiking. I think all these activities are good for the old to stretch their bodies and stay fit.
• Do you exercise regularly?
I try my best to exercise more, but not regular enough. I sometimes go jogging in the evening because it’s really hard to get up early in the morning. Occasionally, I go to the nearby indoor swimming pool to swim. I think swimming is a good way to exercise almost every muscle in my body.
• Do you think daily exercise is good for people?
Definitely. If we don’t do enough exercise, even young people can feel sick and tired all the time. Exercise can help us stay fit, and it’s also a good way to release the pressure from work and studies. I think we should exercise regularly.
• What can exercise bring to different age groups?
For children, if they exercise enough, they will grow strong and tall. For young adults, exercise is a good way to stretch the body after sitting in front of the computer for several hours and it can also make people feel relaxed. If old people exercise often, they can stay healthy and live a long life.
• What outdoor activities do you like?
I like many different outdoor activities. I go jogging in the evening if
I don’t have the companion. If I could find enough people, I love group sports, such as basketball, volleyball, and football. It’s also enjoyable to play badminton or table tennis with one partner.
• Were you active when you were a child?
I would say I was very active when I was a child. I never felt tired of playing. I was very energetic and spent most of my after school time on playing outdoor activities. I think tag, hide-and-seek, and rope jumping were very popular at that time, so I would play them all the time.
• What outdoor activities do people in your city like?
There’re a lot of. Some people love cycling with a group of people and they join a biking club. Some people love going to the gym to play badminton, tennis, or table tennis. Also, some others love to go swimming. I think different people have different ways to exercise.
• Would you say you’re an active person?
I think I was an active child, but I changed when I reached puberty. Now I stay a lot of time at home in front of the computer. I think it’s not good because too much indoor activities can make our bodies less healthy. I should work out more in the future and try to do sports regularly.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Emails and Letters
• Do you write many letters or emails?
Yes, I use email nearly every day to contact my friends all over the world. But I write letters not so often, maybe once a month.
• What are the differences between emails and letters?
There are a few differences. Emails are very free, convenient, and most importantly, very fast, but emails cannot contain your emotion, and we hardly review emails later. Letters are different. They are inconvenient, and need a long time to be received, but letters may convey your emotions better.
• What kind(s) of letter/email do you think is (are) the hardest to write?
I think emails to professors are the hardest to write, because I will be afraid if I don’t use the proper word or make him or her feel uncomfortable. But as for friends, we can write to each other quite freely.
• How do you feel when you receive a letter or email?
I will be very glad to receive a letter or email, because it means that there is someone who remembers me, and sends me something for greetings, or if they have something to discuss with me, I am also pleased to reply to them.
• What kinds of emails (or letters) do you receive that make you feel happy?
Whatever I receive, I will be glad. Of course, if my friends tell me some happy news about them such as weddings, or being admitted to a good university, such as Stanford, I will be really glad to share the happiness with them.
• Do you think people will still write letters in the future?
Yes, I think so. Because I think emails cannot take the place of your emotions filled in the writing letter, and that’s why you can see people still sending postcards, or writing letters to each other even if they are really far away.
• Do you keep letters?
Yes. I have kept a lot of letters from elementary school until now in my drawer. When I have free time, I take the letters out and review them. It seems that I return to that time, so I value the letters I keep.
• Do you write many letters or emails?
Yes, I use email nearly every day to contact my friends all over the world. But I write letters not so often, maybe once a month.
• What are the differences between emails and letters?
There are a few differences. Emails are very free, convenient, and most importantly, very fast, but emails cannot contain your emotion, and we hardly review emails later. Letters are different. They are inconvenient, and need a long time to be received, but letters may convey your emotions better.
• What kind(s) of letter/email do you think is (are) the hardest to write?
I think emails to professors are the hardest to write, because I will be afraid if I don’t use the proper word or make him or her feel uncomfortable. But as for friends, we can write to each other quite freely.
• How do you feel when you receive a letter or email?
I will be very glad to receive a letter or email, because it means that there is someone who remembers me, and sends me something for greetings, or if they have something to discuss with me, I am also pleased to reply to them.
• What kinds of emails (or letters) do you receive that make you feel happy?
Whatever I receive, I will be glad. Of course, if my friends tell me some happy news about them such as weddings, or being admitted to a good university, such as Stanford, I will be really glad to share the happiness with them.
• Do you think people will still write letters in the future?
Yes, I think so. Because I think emails cannot take the place of your emotions filled in the writing letter, and that’s why you can see people still sending postcards, or writing letters to each other even if they are really far away.
• Do you keep letters?
Yes. I have kept a lot of letters from elementary school until now in my drawer. When I have free time, I take the letters out and review them. It seems that I return to that time, so I value the letters I keep.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Music 1.What types of music do you like to listen to?
I usually listen to Iranian pop music. I’m very fond of two pop stars from Iran, but I doubt you know their names．I also frequently listen to some American pop songs. I’m fond of two bands called West Life and the Backstreet Boys. I love the rhythm and the lyrics of some of the songs. Occasionally I listen to a bit of rap too. Although I don’t understand the lyrics, the tune gives me energy. I have uploaded many songs onto my MP3 player, so I can listen to any kind of music I like, anytime, anywhere.
2. At what times of day do you like to listen to music?
Usually I put my earphones in when I go to school in the morning．I take the bus every single day. I prefer listening to my own music rather than the bus radio．I often listen to music after school too, on my way back, and sometimes in my room at night after doing my homework. Music can help me relax.
3. Do you prefer to listen to recordings or live performances?
I guess I don’t really have a preference．It depends on who is playing．Usually recordings are much clearer, the voices are better, and if the song is in English, it’s much easier for me to understand the lyrics．However，live performances are very exciting, especially after the song, when the artist talks to the audience, and everyone cheers and claps．It can create some pretty cool feelings.
4. What types of music are popular in your country?
Well, Iranian pop music is huge here. This is the type of music you can hear if you turn on your TV to a music channel. Nowadays many young people like Iranian pop groups which are active abroad. Of course traditional instrumental music has always been well-appreciated.
5. Do all children in your country study music at school?
Not, really. Music is not a compulsory subject at school in Iran. Usually children have to go music schools if they want to learn music. There they learn how to sing, and how to recognize the musical notes.
6. Do you play a musical instrument?
No. When I was a child, I started learning the violin but it didn’t last long. I didn’t like it, and my mother kind of forced me to. We had a big fight one day, and that was it（＝it was over). I would like to learn how to play the guitar in the future. Right now, I have no time because of my studies．Maybe during the next summer holidays.
7. Do you think children should learn to play a musical instrument?
I think it’s great if parents can give their children an opportunity to learn how to play one instrument, but the problem is that, very often, kids don’t enjoy it, but they keep on learning because their parents expect them to. Maybe it’s better to wait until the children are old enough to actually make the decision on their own.
I usually listen to Iranian pop music. I’m very fond of two pop stars from Iran, but I doubt you know their names．I also frequently listen to some American pop songs. I’m fond of two bands called West Life and the Backstreet Boys. I love the rhythm and the lyrics of some of the songs. Occasionally I listen to a bit of rap too. Although I don’t understand the lyrics, the tune gives me energy. I have uploaded many songs onto my MP3 player, so I can listen to any kind of music I like, anytime, anywhere.
2. At what times of day do you like to listen to music?
Usually I put my earphones in when I go to school in the morning．I take the bus every single day. I prefer listening to my own music rather than the bus radio．I often listen to music after school too, on my way back, and sometimes in my room at night after doing my homework. Music can help me relax.
3. Do you prefer to listen to recordings or live performances?
I guess I don’t really have a preference．It depends on who is playing．Usually recordings are much clearer, the voices are better, and if the song is in English, it’s much easier for me to understand the lyrics．However，live performances are very exciting, especially after the song, when the artist talks to the audience, and everyone cheers and claps．It can create some pretty cool feelings.
4. What types of music are popular in your country?
Well, Iranian pop music is huge here. This is the type of music you can hear if you turn on your TV to a music channel. Nowadays many young people like Iranian pop groups which are active abroad. Of course traditional instrumental music has always been well-appreciated.
5. Do all children in your country study music at school?
Not, really. Music is not a compulsory subject at school in Iran. Usually children have to go music schools if they want to learn music. There they learn how to sing, and how to recognize the musical notes.
6. Do you play a musical instrument?
No. When I was a child, I started learning the violin but it didn’t last long. I didn’t like it, and my mother kind of forced me to. We had a big fight one day, and that was it（＝it was over). I would like to learn how to play the guitar in the future. Right now, I have no time because of my studies．Maybe during the next summer holidays.
7. Do you think children should learn to play a musical instrument?
I think it’s great if parents can give their children an opportunity to learn how to play one instrument, but the problem is that, very often, kids don’t enjoy it, but they keep on learning because their parents expect them to. Maybe it’s better to wait until the children are old enough to actually make the decision on their own.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Shopping
1.Do you enjoy shopping?
• Yes, definitely, a lot. You know how much most girls like shopping, and I am no exception. I frequently go shopping with my mother or some friends. There are many new shopping malls in my city, with a lot of new shops, more choices．It’s always exciting to go there, and relaxing too．
• No, I can’t say I like it and I hardly ever go to the mall unless I know for sure what I want to buy. Some people, especially some girls, can go window shopping all afternoon, just trying on new clothes even if they don’t need anything new because their closets are already full at home. They think it is fun and exciting, but I find it tiring and boring to walk around with no precise aim. My girlfriend frequently asks me to go shopping with her, and I must admit I am running out of excuses not to go!
2. Do you prefer shopping in modern stores or in traditional markets?
I definitely prefer to go to the modern department stores, because I know I can find whatever I want there. The shops offer a great variety of brand-name clothes．Usually the traditional markets in my hometown only sell cheap products or counterfeit items．In my neighborhood there are a few clothes shops as well as a bookstore I like to go to. But most of the shops sell furniture, because I live in a residential area with a lot of new buildings, and the owners of these new apartments need to purchase beds, tables, and sofas to furnish their new places．I guess the business is quite good for these stores. In addition, there is a pretty big supermarket like 5 minutes away from my place.
3. What sorts of things do you enjoy buying most?
I like to buy books. I read a lot, and I enjoy seeing all the books on the shelves in my house. Books are great; they allow me to relax, and they open the doors to an imaginary world. They make me dream. In addition, I love the smell of new books. I know it’s a bit weird, isn’t it?
4. Who does the daily or weekly shopping in your household?
It really depends. My mother often goes grocery shopping after work, but my father frequently goes to the market to buy fish, meat and vegetables on the weekend. Occasionally my grandma also buys groceries. It depends on who’s got time to go.
5. How often do you go shopping for things apart from food?
Rarely. I am a university student, so I don’t have that much money, and I don’t want to spend my parents’ cash on things I don’t need. I enjoy shopping, but I don’t think it’s run if I know I can buy whatever I like. I guess I will go shopping more often as soon as I find a job and start earning my own money.
6. Do men and women have the same attitude to shopping?
No definitely not! Most women could spend whole afternoons shopping, wandering around the shops, whereas men usually know what they what. And men are not ready to waste time.
1.Do you enjoy shopping?
• Yes, definitely, a lot. You know how much most girls like shopping, and I am no exception. I frequently go shopping with my mother or some friends. There are many new shopping malls in my city, with a lot of new shops, more choices．It’s always exciting to go there, and relaxing too．
• No, I can’t say I like it and I hardly ever go to the mall unless I know for sure what I want to buy. Some people, especially some girls, can go window shopping all afternoon, just trying on new clothes even if they don’t need anything new because their closets are already full at home. They think it is fun and exciting, but I find it tiring and boring to walk around with no precise aim. My girlfriend frequently asks me to go shopping with her, and I must admit I am running out of excuses not to go!
2. Do you prefer shopping in modern stores or in traditional markets?
I definitely prefer to go to the modern department stores, because I know I can find whatever I want there. The shops offer a great variety of brand-name clothes．Usually the traditional markets in my hometown only sell cheap products or counterfeit items．In my neighborhood there are a few clothes shops as well as a bookstore I like to go to. But most of the shops sell furniture, because I live in a residential area with a lot of new buildings, and the owners of these new apartments need to purchase beds, tables, and sofas to furnish their new places．I guess the business is quite good for these stores. In addition, there is a pretty big supermarket like 5 minutes away from my place.
3. What sorts of things do you enjoy buying most?
I like to buy books. I read a lot, and I enjoy seeing all the books on the shelves in my house. Books are great; they allow me to relax, and they open the doors to an imaginary world. They make me dream. In addition, I love the smell of new books. I know it’s a bit weird, isn’t it?
4. Who does the daily or weekly shopping in your household?
It really depends. My mother often goes grocery shopping after work, but my father frequently goes to the market to buy fish, meat and vegetables on the weekend. Occasionally my grandma also buys groceries. It depends on who’s got time to go.
5. How often do you go shopping for things apart from food?
Rarely. I am a university student, so I don’t have that much money, and I don’t want to spend my parents’ cash on things I don’t need. I enjoy shopping, but I don’t think it’s run if I know I can buy whatever I like. I guess I will go shopping more often as soon as I find a job and start earning my own money.
6. Do men and women have the same attitude to shopping?
No definitely not! Most women could spend whole afternoons shopping, wandering around the shops, whereas men usually know what they what. And men are not ready to waste time.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Reading
1．What kinds of things do you read?
Well, I read a lot of textbooks at school. I major in economics, so most books I read are related to this subject. However, in my spare time I enjoy losing myself in a good novel. As a child I really liked fantasy novels, but nowadays I’m keen on thrillers. In addition, I occasionally read the news on the Internet, and I buy magazines maybe once a month.
2. Why do you read?
At school I read in order to learn about my major. Whenever I read the news, it’s because I am curious, and also it’s a good chance to get some information about the world. And finally, when I read magazines or novels, it’s because I want to relax. I like to read for pleasure. I think that most of the time reading is informative and entertaining.
3. How much time do you spend reading?
I don’t really know, I don’t really keep track, but I would say approximately 2 or 3 hours a day when I am at school, and maybe a little less when I go home．At university I don’t have a TV, so whenever I go home during the holiday I soak up as much TV as I can!
Not much. I am very busy with my job, and I don’t get many chances to sit down and read anything other than the newspaper. When I get home, I usually have dinner with my family; we talk, we relax a bit, and then I help my child with his homework. There’s hardly any time for me to enjoy a good book.
4. At what time of day do you prefer to read?
Definitely at night, just before turning the lights off and sleeping. I usually read in bed. It could be a textbook if I have a test coming up or a novel if I have time. It’s a habit I have gotten used to since I was a child.
5. Where do you like to read?
I enjoy reading on my bed or on the sofa at home. In the winter I get a blanket and roll myself in it. In the summer, I turn the AC（＝air conditioner) on. My bed is the coziest (cozy ＝comfortable) place to read, and I like the sofa because our living room at home is very bright.
6. How important is reading for you？
Reading is extremely important for me．I must read in order to study. You know, reading is the best source of knowledge for students．Reading can make me smarter. In addition, I find reading very relaxing, especially when I read comic books．It’s a great way to entertain myself.
1．What kinds of things do you read?
Well, I read a lot of textbooks at school. I major in economics, so most books I read are related to this subject. However, in my spare time I enjoy losing myself in a good novel. As a child I really liked fantasy novels, but nowadays I’m keen on thrillers. In addition, I occasionally read the news on the Internet, and I buy magazines maybe once a month.
2. Why do you read?
At school I read in order to learn about my major. Whenever I read the news, it’s because I am curious, and also it’s a good chance to get some information about the world. And finally, when I read magazines or novels, it’s because I want to relax. I like to read for pleasure. I think that most of the time reading is informative and entertaining.
3. How much time do you spend reading?
I don’t really know, I don’t really keep track, but I would say approximately 2 or 3 hours a day when I am at school, and maybe a little less when I go home．At university I don’t have a TV, so whenever I go home during the holiday I soak up as much TV as I can!
Not much. I am very busy with my job, and I don’t get many chances to sit down and read anything other than the newspaper. When I get home, I usually have dinner with my family; we talk, we relax a bit, and then I help my child with his homework. There’s hardly any time for me to enjoy a good book.
4. At what time of day do you prefer to read?
Definitely at night, just before turning the lights off and sleeping. I usually read in bed. It could be a textbook if I have a test coming up or a novel if I have time. It’s a habit I have gotten used to since I was a child.
5. Where do you like to read?
I enjoy reading on my bed or on the sofa at home. In the winter I get a blanket and roll myself in it. In the summer, I turn the AC（＝air conditioner) on. My bed is the coziest (cozy ＝comfortable) place to read, and I like the sofa because our living room at home is very bright.
6. How important is reading for you？
Reading is extremely important for me．I must read in order to study. You know, reading is the best source of knowledge for students．Reading can make me smarter. In addition, I find reading very relaxing, especially when I read comic books．It’s a great way to entertain myself.
Forwarded from ibtil_ IELTS
Computers
1. How often do you use a computer?
Pretty much every day（＝almost every day) ．I have a computer at home, and I use it to chat with my friends on Instant Messenger; I read the news, and occasionally watch online movies. In addition, my father bought me a laptop last year, and I take it with me to school. I go to college and I stay there from Saturday to Wednesday. It’s convenient to have a computer because I can look up whatever info I need for my classes, and it’s also a good chance for me to keep in touch with my relatives and friends back home.
2. Which websites do you often visit on the Internet?
I use the Google search engine on a daily basis, and I frequently read the news on irna dot com. These are two of the most popular websites in my country. I like irna.com because I can get access to both national and international news. The website is well- designed and the articles are well-written. In addition, whenever I get online, I always connect to an Instant Messenger program called gtalk.
3. In what ways do young people use computers in your country?
Well, most students use the Internet in order to do a bit of research for their studies. They look for articles and info related to their homework. On the other hand, I think that most teenagers and young adults are addicted to Instant Messenger programs like yahoo messenger and MSN. They are constantly online, chatting with their friends or even strangers they meet on some group discussion forums. In addition, a lot of boys download online games, and play probably more than they should. I know that some of my friends, especially the girls, go shopping online, because they can find cheaper prices, more choices, and they say it’s quite entertaining too.
4. How "computer literate” are you?
I don’t know much about computers．I’m happy as long as it’s working, but whenever something goes wrong, I am useless. I ask my good friend to come to my place to fix the problem. I know how to use basic programs like Word, and PowerPoint, but I can’t say I’ m skilled at it.
5. Have you ever bought anything online?
Yes, I have. I actually frequently buy books online, and a few months ago I purchased a mobile phone online. It took me a wane to visit different websites in order to compare prices, and to make sure I wasn’t making a mistake, but it worked out very well, I received the cell phone within 48 hours, and it works just fine. I saved a lot of money instead of buying it at the mall.
6. How much have computers changed your life? (if you didn’t have one as a child)
Well, quite a lot actually. As a child I didn’t have a computer, and I only learned how to use it in high school. But nowadays, I depend on computers a lot at work and also at home for entertainment. I read the news online on a daily basis. I socialize through the Internet, and I manage my pictures and my schedule on my computer too．I might actually depend on it too much.
1. How often do you use a computer?
Pretty much every day（＝almost every day) ．I have a computer at home, and I use it to chat with my friends on Instant Messenger; I read the news, and occasionally watch online movies. In addition, my father bought me a laptop last year, and I take it with me to school. I go to college and I stay there from Saturday to Wednesday. It’s convenient to have a computer because I can look up whatever info I need for my classes, and it’s also a good chance for me to keep in touch with my relatives and friends back home.
2. Which websites do you often visit on the Internet?
I use the Google search engine on a daily basis, and I frequently read the news on irna dot com. These are two of the most popular websites in my country. I like irna.com because I can get access to both national and international news. The website is well- designed and the articles are well-written. In addition, whenever I get online, I always connect to an Instant Messenger program called gtalk.
3. In what ways do young people use computers in your country?
Well, most students use the Internet in order to do a bit of research for their studies. They look for articles and info related to their homework. On the other hand, I think that most teenagers and young adults are addicted to Instant Messenger programs like yahoo messenger and MSN. They are constantly online, chatting with their friends or even strangers they meet on some group discussion forums. In addition, a lot of boys download online games, and play probably more than they should. I know that some of my friends, especially the girls, go shopping online, because they can find cheaper prices, more choices, and they say it’s quite entertaining too.
4. How "computer literate” are you?
I don’t know much about computers．I’m happy as long as it’s working, but whenever something goes wrong, I am useless. I ask my good friend to come to my place to fix the problem. I know how to use basic programs like Word, and PowerPoint, but I can’t say I’ m skilled at it.
5. Have you ever bought anything online?
Yes, I have. I actually frequently buy books online, and a few months ago I purchased a mobile phone online. It took me a wane to visit different websites in order to compare prices, and to make sure I wasn’t making a mistake, but it worked out very well, I received the cell phone within 48 hours, and it works just fine. I saved a lot of money instead of buying it at the mall.
6. How much have computers changed your life? (if you didn’t have one as a child)
Well, quite a lot actually. As a child I didn’t have a computer, and I only learned how to use it in high school. But nowadays, I depend on computers a lot at work and also at home for entertainment. I read the news online on a daily basis. I socialize through the Internet, and I manage my pictures and my schedule on my computer too．I might actually depend on it too much.
Forwarded from IBTIL TOEFL iBT💎
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تجربه یکی از داوطلبان آزمون تافل اینترنتی شنبه 5 مارچ 2016 👇👇👇👇👇👇
»>دوستان عزیز در صورت تمایل می توانید تجربه خود را به صورت voice یا text به https://telegram.me/HamedAalaee ارسال نمایید. تجربه و نکات مفیدی که پس از آزمون توسط شما ارسال می گردد می تواند به داوطلبان دیگر کمک کند عملکرد بهتری در آزمون داشته باشند. با سپاس از همکاری شما
@aalaeeTOEFLiBT
تجربه یکی از داوطلبان آزمون تافل اینترنتی شنبه 5 مارچ 2016 👇👇👇👇👇👇
»>دوستان عزیز در صورت تمایل می توانید تجربه خود را به صورت voice یا text به https://telegram.me/HamedAalaee ارسال نمایید. تجربه و نکات مفیدی که پس از آزمون توسط شما ارسال می گردد می تواند به داوطلبان دیگر کمک کند عملکرد بهتری در آزمون داشته باشند. با سپاس از همکاری شما
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