iSpeaktu
⚡ 0 XP
Login

Conversation Advance · Module 20 · Unit 97

Pros and Cons of Online Learning

C2 Proficient

Learning Objectives

In today"s class, you will talk about comparing school systems and improve your everyday vocabulary.

Discussion

Direction: Answer these questions.
  1. What was the most challenging subject for you in school?
  2. How do schools in your country compare to what you see in movies?
  3. Have you ever had to catch up on a missed lesson?

New Words & Expressions

Direction: Listen and repeat these words with your teacher.

  • Curriculum

    noun

    /kəˈrɪkjələm/

    Meaning:The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.

    The school updated its curriculum to include more technology.

    Real Life Tip:

    Often debated in terms of what students should learn.

  • Pedagogy

    noun

    /ˈpedəɡɒdʒi/

    Meaning:The method and practice of teaching.

    Their pedagogy focuses on student-led projects.

    Real Life Tip:

    A sophisticated term used in academic or professional settings.

  • Catch up

    phrasal verb

    /kætʃ ʌp/

    Meaning:To reach the same standard as others after falling behind.

    I worked hard all weekend to catch up on my reading.

    Real Life Tip:

    Frequently used in both academic and workplace contexts.

  • The tip of the iceberg

    idiom

    /ðə tɪp əv ðɪ ˈaɪsbɜːrɡ/

    Meaning:A small part of a larger, hidden problem.

    Poor grades are just the tip of the iceberg regarding school stress.

    Real Life Tip:

    Used to suggest deeper underlying issues.

  • Cram

    slang

    /kræm/

    Meaning:To study intensively over a short period of time.

    I had to cram for my final exam last night.

    Real Life Tip:

    Refers to last-minute, high-pressure studying.

Conversation

Direction:

  • Listen carefully as your teacher reads the conversation aloud.
  • Role-play the conversation with your teacher
David and Olivia meet at a coffee shop to discuss the local education system.
  • David
    I was reading about the new school curriculum, and it seems very demanding.
  • Olivia
    It is. I think their pedagogy is outdated compared to other systems.
  • David
    Students are forced to cram so much information just to pass tests.

Q&A

Direction: Answer the questions based on the conversation.
  1. What does David think about the new curriculum?
  2. What is the problem with current test scores according to Olivia?
  3. What do David and Olivia want to suggest at the meeting?

Exercise

Direction: Choose the correct answer to complete each sentence, then read it aloud. Each question gives you 5 Points.

  1. What is pedagogy?

  2. What does it mean to cram?

  3. I have to ____ up on my assignments.

  4. That policy is just the tip of the ____.

  5. is / updated / the / curriculum / school

  6. test / is / pressure / the / high

Ask Your Teacher

Direction: Ask your teacher these questions.
  1. How would you describe your ideal teaching pedagogy?
  2. Do you think current curricula are too focused on exams?
  3. How do you personally handle the pressure to catch up?

Your Time To Speak

Direction: Answer using the language you have learned in this lesson. Talk about yourself!
  1. What are the benefits of a modern curriculum?
  2. How can teachers change their pedagogy to be more effective?
  3. Is cramming ever an effective way to learn?
  4. How can parents help kids who are struggling?
  5. What does the tip of the iceberg represent in education?
  6. Are there alternatives to standard testing?
  7. How can I manage stress in a demanding school system?
  8. Why is it important to have a balanced curriculum?
  9. How do I support friends who are behind on their work?
  10. What is the future of classroom learning?
Olivia
Exactly, and test scores are only the tip of the iceberg regarding their success.
  • David
    What happens if a student misses a week? It must be impossible to catch up.
  • Olivia
    They fall behind immediately. The pressure on these kids is immense.
  • David
    Maybe we should suggest some changes at the next community meeting.
  • Olivia
    I agree. We need a system that focuses on learning, not just memorizing.