Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4–5 minutes)
1.Do you like numbers? Why or why not?
Yes, I do like numbers. I find them interesting because they’re everywhere in our daily lives. Whether it’s calculating expenses, measuring time, or analyzing data, numbers help us make sense of the world.
2.Are you good at math?
I wouldn’t say I’m particularly great at math, but I manage well with basic calculations. I find it challenging when it comes to complex formulas or abstract concepts, but I do enjoy solving real-life problems involving numbers.
3.Do you often use numbers in your daily life?
Yes, numbers are part of my daily routine. I use them when budgeting, planning my schedule, cooking, and even tracking the time. They play a big role in helping me stay organized.
4.Do you think people in your country like numbers? Why or why not?
Yes, people in my country use numbers quite a bit, especially in business and education. People often rely on numbers for financial management, statistics, and data analysis, which are crucial in modern society.
5.Are you interested in statistics or data?
Yes, I am interested in statistics because they help me understand trends and patterns. I find it fascinating how numbers can be used to represent different aspects of life, such as economic growth, health, or even social behaviors.
Part 2: Long Turn (3–4 minutes)
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you had to use numbers in your life.
You should say:
•when it was
•why you had to use numbers
•how you used them
and explain how you felt about using numbers in that situation.
Sample Answer:
I remember a time when I had to use numbers to manage my personal finances. About a year ago, I decided to track my monthly spending to get a better understanding of my budget and savings.
I used numbers to calculate my income, set up a budget for different categories like rent, food, and entertainment, and then tracked my expenses throughout the month. I also used a spreadsheet to make sure I stayed within my budget.
At first, I found it a bit tedious, but as I continued, I became more comfortable with the process. I felt proud once I saw how much I could save and how my spending habits improved. It gave me a sense of control and helped me make smarter financial decisions.
Part 3: Discussion (4–5 minutes)
1.How do numbers affect our daily lives?
Numbers affect our daily lives in many ways. We use them for time management, budgeting, and measurements, among other things. Numbers are essential for planning, making decisions, and understanding the world around us.
2.Do you think numbers are important in education? Why?
Yes, numbers are very important in education, especially in subjects like mathematics, science, and economics. They help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to analyze and interpret data.
3.Do you think people rely too much on numbers today?
In some ways, yes. While numbers can be very helpful, sometimes people rely too much on them and ignore other factors, such as intuition or creativity. It’s important to balance numerical data with other forms of understanding.
4.How do you think technology has changed the way we use numbers?
Technology has made it much easier to work with numbers. We now have access to powerful tools and software that allow us to calculate, analyze, and visualize data quickly. It has also made managing things like finances and time more efficient.
5.Can numbers be misleading sometimes?
Yes, numbers can be misleading, especially when they are taken out of context or manipulated. For example, statistics can be misused to support a particular argument or agenda. It’s important to consider the source and context of the numbers before making conclusions.