你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 What kind of people tend to lose things more often than others? First thing that comes to mind is those who are absentminded. I’m not too sure what causes absentmindedness, but I reckon it’s because people aren’t keyed into what they are doing. I think we can say a lack of presence of mind. Perhaps it also happens to those who are in a rush and tend to not pay close attention to where they place their items and probably think they’ll remember later, but in fact forget where they placed something. For instance, individuals with a hectic work schedule or students with a tight deadline are prime examples of those who might hurriedly pack their bags or gather their belongings without double-checking. * absentminded 心不在焉 * keyed into 专注于 * presence of mind 心神在焉 * in a rush 匆忙 * pay close attention to 密切关注 * a hectic work schedule 忙碌的工作日程 * tight deadline 紧迫的截止日期 * hurriedly 匆忙地 * pack their bags 收拾东西 * gather their belongings 收拾好自己的东西 * double-checking 再次检查 [Image] What kind of things do people often lose? From personal experience, I would say it would have to be everyday items, that perhaps are of little intrinsic value, but are so commonly used they are easily forgotten, for example sunglasses and umbrellas. As mentioned, I think they are commonly lost simply because they are frequently used and handled in various environments, like a sunny day, and one wears sunglasses, but once inside, they aren’t needed, so, they might be chucked onto a chair or a table and then forgotten, same goes for umbrellas. Once in a while, and much more devastating, is the loss of a wallet or phone, which is certainly not uncommon. * of little intrinsic value: 没有什么价值 * so commonly used: 常用 * easily forgotten: 容易被忘记 * chucked onto: 随意扔到 * and much more devastating: 更加糟糕的是 * uncommon: 不常见 [Image] What do you think are the reasons why some people pick up lost things and don’t give them back? I guess the first reason is the attitude of “finders keepers”, you know, the attitude that “you lost it, I found it”, and as such, it is now mine. This is especially true when the person who finds the item simply does not know how to return it. Secondly, I would say there's a more deliberate, and perhaps unfortunate or one could say, sinister reason which is driven by a type of selfish opportunism. When someone finds a valuable item like a wallet or a smartphone, the temptation to keep it can be strong, especially if there is the opportunity to pilfer money. The immediate benefit of gaining money, consequently, such as using the credit cards found in a wallet or selling an expensive phone, can outweigh their moral judgment about the right thing to do. This scenario can be compounded by laziness and not wanting to go through the hassle of contacting the person and meeting them or reporting the loss to the appropriate authorities. * finders keepers 谁捡到就是谁的 * deliberate 故意 * unfortunate 不幸 * sinister 邪恶的 * driven by 驱动 * opportunism 机会主义 * the temptation to…can be strong …的诱惑可能很大 * pilfer 偷窃 * moral judgment 道德判断 * the right thing to do 正确的行为 * scenario 情况 * compounded by 由…加剧 * laziness 懒惰 * go through the hassle of 经历…的麻烦 * the appropriate authorities 相关权威机构 [Image] Should parents teach their children to return things lost by others? Absolutely, I think this type of thing actually is one of those key character molding points in life, where children’s moral compass can be, perhaps inadvertently so, miscalibrated so that the child begins to think that being selfish is equivalent to being right, and where being “good” is left out of the equation. So, yes, for sure parents should teach children to return lost and found items. This not only instills a strong sense of morality and integrity but also reinforces the value of empathy and respect for another’s property. This lesson goes beyond just returning lost items; it's about cultivating a culture of honesty and responsibility. When children learn from a young age to do the right thing, even when no one is watching, they grow into more responsible adults, that’s for sure. * moral compass 道德准则 * inadvertently so 不经意地 * miscalibrated 校准错误 * equivalent to 等同于 * left out of the equation 被排除在外 * lost and found items 失物招领物品 * instills 灌输 * a strong sense of morality 强烈的道德感 * integrity 正直 * reinforces 加强 * empathy 同理心 * property 财产 * goes beyond just... 不仅仅是... * cultivating a culture of 培养...的文化

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 Is the city where you live crowded? I’d say so. The city I reside in can be described as bustling with people. I currently live in Singapore, an island-nation that, despite its modest size of roughly 730 square kilometers, is densely populated with over 5.5 million residents. This high population density, coupled with the constant influx of tourists visiting the country's world-famous attractions, ensures that places of interest and public transport, particularly the MRT trains, are often teeming with people. That being said, however, the city also offers tranquility away from the usual hotspots in the way of nature walks, parks, and even some city paths, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. * reside 居住 * can be described as 可以描述为 * bustling with 熙熙攘攘 * modest size 面积适中 * densely populated 人口密集 * influx of 涌入 * ensure 确保 * places of interest 景点 * tranquility 宁静 * hotspots 热门景点 * providing an escape from 提供了逃脱……的机会 * hustle and bustle 喧嚣 * urban life 城市生活 [Image] Is there a crowded place near where you live? Yes, the metro station is just a stone's throw from my apartment and is invariably swarming with people. With multiple transit lines intersecting, this station draws in a constant stream of commuters. Navigating the sea of bustling crowds across numerous escalators and moving walkways is an everyday adventure for me – the station's sheer scale and busyness make it seem akin to traversing a busy international airport! * just a stone's throw from 一箭之遥 * swarming with 拥挤着 * multiple 多条 * transit lines 交通线路 * intersecting 相交 * draws in 吸引 * a constant stream of 持续的 * commuters 通勤者 * navigating 穿行 * numerous 众多的 * escalators 扶梯 * moving walkaways 自动人行道 * akin to 类似于 * traversing 穿越；穿过 [Image] Do you like crowded places? I guess I’d have to say it depends as I have mixed feelings about crowded places. There are moments when I crave the energy of a bustling crowd, like a splash of color in my otherwise mundane routine. Yet, I’d have to say that, more often than not, I seek to find solace in less busy spaces and that sometimes, I even daydream about a tranquil life in a small coastal town, far from the city's roar, but as I said, now and then, being in the midst of throngs of people can be refreshing and enlivening. * mixed feelings 矛盾的感受 * crave 渴望 * a splash of color 一抹色彩 * mundane 平凡的 * solace 安慰 * daydream 白日梦 * tranquil life 宁静的生活 * coastal town 海边小镇 * far from the city's roar 远离城市的喧嚣 * in the midst of 在...之中 * throngs of people 人群 * enlivening 使活跃 [Image] When was the last time you were in a crowded place? The last time I found myself in a crowded place was just yesterday when I visited Gardens by the Bay here in Singapore. That's the spot with the iconic Supertree Grove—truly a spectacle to behold and a magnet for both tourists and locals alike. Despite having been multiple times, the allure doesn't fade. I always prepare for the crowds, so yesterday, I arrived early in the evening to secure a good spot for my picnic blanket. As I lay there enjoying the vibrant light and music show, I was surrounded by hundreds of others, all mesmerized by the performance. It's one of those places where the crowd actually enhances the experience, like a concert, making it feel even more thrilling and riveting. * iconic 标志性的 * a spectacle to behold 值得观赏的景象 * a magnet for 吸引人的地方 * multiple times 多次 * allure 魅力 * secure a good spot for 为...找到好位置 * picnic blanket 野餐毯 * vibrant 生动的 * mesmerized 被迷住的 * enhance 增强 * thrilling 令人兴奋的 * riveting 吸引人的

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 Do most people prefer to watch movies at home or in a cinema? I think these days the majority of people tend to watch movies at home rather than at the cinema mainly due to the convenience and cost-effectiveness it offers. With the advent of digital streaming platforms, access to a wide array of films has become remarkably easy, allowing people to enjoy their favorite movies without stepping out of the comfort of their homes. This home-viewing option is not only comfortable but also economical as most streaming services offer monthly subscriptions that allow unlimited viewing, making it a more affordable choice compared to the high ticket prices at cinemas. * the majority of people: 大多数人 * the convenience: 方便 * cost-effectiveness: 省钱 * with the advent of: 随着……的出现 * digital streaming platforms: 数字流媒体平台 * access to a wide array of: 能接触到广泛的 * remarkably easy: 特别简单 * stepping out of the comfort of their homes: 离开家的舒适 * economical: 经济的 * monthly subscriptions: 按月订阅 * unlimited viewing: 无限观看 [Image] What are the advantages of going to the cinema with friends? I think one of the main benefits of watching a film with friends at the cinema is that it is a day, or date, out in the town. Usually, theaters are in shopping malls, so it allows friends to not only catch a flick, but also to dine and shop, so it’s like mini-event during one’s otherwise mundane week. Also, the large screen and immersive sound system significantly amplify the movie-watching experience, creating an atmosphere that is difficult to replicate at home. Sharing this experience with friends, whether you're laughing at a comedy or tearing up during a drama, also fosters shared emotions, so it can also help to build stronger bonds between friends. So, I think those are the three main benefits or advantages of going out with friends to a movie theater. * out in the town: 出门 * catch a flick: 看一场电影 * dine: 用餐 * mundane: 平凡的 * immersive sound system: 沉浸式音响系统 * replicate: 复制 * tear up: 流泪 * foster: 培养 * movie theater: 电影院 [Image] What kind of movies do you think need to be seen in the cinema to be fully appreciated? For sure, I would say it has to be action movies and science fiction films. The primary reason for this is the availability of advanced cinematic technologies, such as 4D experiences. These features, including motion seats and special effects like wind, mist, and even scents, alongside 3D glasses, enhance the visual spectacle and make viewers feel as if they are part of the action, standing alongside the characters. Moreover, the superior sound quality and the expansive screens in cinemas amplify every detail, adding to the overall immersive experience. Such elements are crucial for enjoying the full intensity and scope of high-action and futuristic settings that these genres typically present. * action movies: 动作片 * science fiction: 科幻片 * the availability of: ……的可用性 * cinematic: 电影的 * 4D experiences: 4D体验 * motion seats: 动感座椅 * special effects: 特效 * enhance: 增强 * visual spectacle: 视觉盛宴 * expansive: 广阔的 * amplify: 放大 * immersive experience: 沉浸式体验 * elements: 元素 * crucial: 关键的 * intensify: 加剧 * scope: 范围 * futuristic: 未来派的 * genres: 类别；流派 [Image] Do you think people can learn about a new culture through movies? Yes definitely. I would say that movies are a powerful medium through which people can learn about new ways of living. For many, films serve as a primary source of cultural education, especially for those who have not had the opportunity to travel to different countries. For example, Bollywood films provide a vibrant portrayal of Indian culture, showcasing its traditions of song and dance, which are integral aspects of many Indian celebrations. Through these films, the audience can also observe the traditional attire and get an idea about the culinary variety found in India. However, I think it's also important to recognize that while movies offer a glimpse into a culture, they often encapsulate stereotypes and may not provide a comprehensive or entirely accurate representation. Nevertheless, they do open a window to different cultures. * powerful medium: 强大的媒介 * primary source: 主要来源 * a vibrant portrayal of: 生动描绘 * integral: 不可或缺的 * audience: 观众 * traditional attire: 传统服饰 * get an idea about: 了解 * culinary: 烹饪的 * important to recognize: 重要的是要认识到 * offer a glimpse into: 提供了一窥……的机会 * encapsulate: 概括 * stereotypes: 刻板印象 * accurate representation: 准确的表现 * open a window to: 打开了一扇通往……的窗户 [Image]

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 Describe a movie/film that you felt strongly about You should say: What it is about When you watched it Where you watched it And explain why you felt strongly about it [Image] **Standard Phrase **Words showing Cohesion (C&C) A movie I feel strongly about is the film ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ as it left a profound impact on me. Based on the novel by Erich Maria Remarque, a German veteran of World War I, it portrays the frightening realities of war through the eyes of a young soldier named Paul. I watched this film at home last year, shortly after finishing the novel, and its raw emotional power resonated deeply with me. The film chronicles the outbreak of World War I in 1914 Germany, where Paul and his high school classmates, filled with patriotic fervor, eagerly enlist in the army to serve their fatherland. However, their idealistic notions are quickly shattered as they confront the cruel realities of the battlefield. The film masterfully captures Paul's transformation from a naive, eager recruit to a battle-hardened soldier, witnessing the senseless loss of his comrades' lives and the gradual erosion of his humanity amidst the unrelenting horror of war. What struck me most was the film's portrayal of the brutal physical and psychological toll of combat. The acting was exceptional, conveying all kinds of emotions soldiers experience – from initial enthusiasm to disillusionment, fear, and ultimately, a numbing detachment as the war consumes their very souls. The camera work and set design were equally impressive, pulling the audience into the trenches and showing the raw intensity of the battle scenes with striking realism. Ultimately, it was the tragedy of Paul's death near the end of the war that hit me hard. "All Quiet on the Western Front" is a strong anti-war movie that makes us face the brutal realities of war and remember the people who suffered through it. Its effect stays with you long after the movie ends, making it a film masterpiece that everyone should see. * left a profound impact on: 产生了深远的影响 * based on the novel by: 基于...的小说 * veteran: 老兵 * portrays: 描绘 * the frightening realities of: ...的可怕现实 * through the eyes of: 透过...的眼睛 * chronicles: 记录 * the outbreak of: 爆发 * filled with: 充满了 * patriotic fervor: 爱国热情 * eagerly enlist: 急切入伍 * idealistic notions: 理想主义的观念 * shattered: 粉碎了 * confront the cruel realities of: 面对...的残酷现实 * battlefield: 战场 * masterfully: 巧妙地 * transformation: 转变 * naive: 天真 * a battle-hardened soldier: 经历战火洗礼的士兵 * erosion: 侵蚀 * unrelenting horror: 冷酷恐怖 * psychological toll: 心理代价 * combat: 战斗 * exceptional: 杰出的 * initial enthusiasm: 最初的热情 * disillusionment: 幻灭 * numbing detachment: 麻木的疏离 * equally impressive: 同样令人印象深刻 * battle scenes: 战斗场面 * striking realism: 惊人的写实 * the brutal realities: 残酷的现实 * masterpiece: 杰作 [Image] [Image]

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 这期节目的目录： 1. What is a pie chart? 2. Key Points to Note When Describing Pie Charts 3. Questions You Should Ask Yourself When Describing Pie Charts 4. Example Essay structure 5. Sample Essay and Analysis 范文题目： 雅思口语考前急救包：

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 Do you like singing? Absolutely, singing is one of my favorite pastimes. It's a form of expression that I turn to when I'm feeling joyful or simply at ease. Back in my childhood, I remember being known in my village for my passion for singing. I would eagerly absorb melodies from CDs and fervently sing them at the top of my lungs amidst the countryside. Moreover, I took great delight in teaching my siblings and neighborhood friends various tunes I picked up at school or from our music collection. This joy in singing is something that has stayed with me over the years, and it remains an activity that brings immense pleasure to my life. * a form of expression 一种表达形式 * turn to 转向 * joyful 快乐的 * at ease 舒适的 * back in my childhood 我小的时候 * passion for 特别喜欢 * eagerly 热切地 * absorb 吸收 * melodies 旋律 * fervently 热情地 * at the top of my lungs 扯着嗓子 * the countryside 乡村 * take great delight in 很开心 * siblings 兄弟姐妹 * pick up 学会 * stayed with me over the years 多年来一直伴随着我 * brings immense pleasure to my life 为我的生活带来巨大的快乐 [Image] Have you ever learned how to sing? No, I’ve had no formal training, but my school days did include weekly music classes. These weren't quite professional lessons though as they often doubled as impromptu study sessions for other subjects, yet it was during these times that I picked up singing informally—mirroring the melodies from CDs and vintage cassettes. It was a sort of mimicry that became my foundational singing education I guess you could say. * had no formal traning 没有经过正式培训 * often doubled as 经常充当 * impromptu 即兴的 * informally 非正式地 * mirror 模仿 * vintage cassettes 老式磁带 * mimicry 模仿 * foundational 基础的 [Image] Who do you want to sing for? I sing for my own pleasure in the solitude of my home. City life doesn't quite lend itself to the unfettered screaming performances I used to give during my hilltop yesteryears haha. So, I contain my melodies within my own four walls, where I'm my own audience and critic, indulging in the simple joy of song just for the sake of it. * solitude 孤独；独处 * city life 城市生活 * lend itself to 适宜 * unfettered 不受约束的 * yesteryears 往昔 * melodies 旋律 * within my own four walls 在自己家 * audience 观众 * indulging 沉迷 [Image] Do you think singing can bring happiness to people? Yeah, certainly. Singing has a potent effect on our spirits, often bringing us joy. I think it's a powerful form of expression that transcends mere words, enabling individuals to release a spectrum of emotions. The act of singing, whether it's a melancholic ballad that tugs at the heartstrings or an upbeat tune that sparks exuberance, it has a unifying force that can resonate deeply, especially during social gatherings. This is particularly evident in karaoke and can result in a collective celebration of life's moments through a song. * potent effect 强大的效果 * a powerful form of expression 强有力的表达形式 * transcends 超越 * mere 仅仅 * words 文字 * enable 使能够 * a spectrum of emotions 一系列情感 * melancholic 忧郁的 * ballad 民歌 * tugs at the heartstrings 触动心弦 * upbeat tune 欢快的曲调 * exuberance 充满活力 * a unifying force 统一的力量 * resonate 引起共鸣 * karaoke 卡拉OK * a collective celebration of 集体庆祝 [Image]

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 我是Lauren。 我在第一次雅思考试中，写作拿了7.5分： 其中的一个方法是：尽量用不同的句型。 在这期节目里，我和你分享其中的一种句型。它其实很简单，没有什么科技狠活。 首先，我们来观察这个例句： Seeing that e-commerce platforms are on the rise, consumers are increasingly turning towards online shopping for greater convenience. 这个句子是一个复合句。 我们先理清“复合句”这个概念。 复合句（Complex Sentences）由一个主句和一个或多个从句组成。 主句叫Independent Clause，你从"independent（独立）"这个词就能看出来，主句可以独立存在，表达一个完整的意思。 从句叫Dependent Clause，不能独立存在，需要依赖主句来表达完整的意思。从句提供背景、原因、时间或条件，补充说明主句。 需要注意的是，我接下来要分享的句型里的Dependent Clause，也就是从句，需要有动词。 再强调一遍，与主句不同的是，从句不能单独拎出来作为一个完整的句子，因为它不能表达一个完整的意思。 主句讲main idea，从句补充细节，这样的结构有助于： * 添加更多细节 * 显示idea之间的关系 * 使句式更加复杂 * 清晰地传达信息 在这期节目里，我只讲：“动词ing+从句，主句”这种结构的复合句。 现在来分析刚刚的句子： Seeing that e-commerce platforms are on the rise, consumers are increasingly turning towards online shopping for greater convenience. 从句：Seeing that e-commerce platforms are on the rise 主语：e-commerce platforms（电商平台） 动词：are on the rise（正在兴起） 这个从句提供了背景信息，解释了主句发生的原因或条件。 主句：consumers are increasingly turning towards online shopping for greater convenience. 主语：consumers（消费者） 动词：are turning（正在转向） 这是一个完整的句子，表达了一个完整的意思，可以独立存在。 接下来，我把这几个很简单的句子改成刚刚的结构，来看看效果： 简单句1： E-commerce platforms are on the rise. Consumers are turning towards online shopping for greater convenience. “动词ing+从句，主句”结构的复合句： Seeing that e-commerce platforms are on the rise, consumers are increasingly turning towards online shopping for greater convenience. 复合句里的从句: Seeing that e-commerce platforms are on the rise（看到电商平台正在兴起） 复合句里的主句: consumers are increasingly turning towards online shopping for greater convenience（为了更大的便利，消费者越来越倾向于网上购物） 简单句2： Our hospitals have implemented advanced medical technology. We have seen a significant improvement in patient care and treatment outcomes. “动词ing+从句，主句”结构的复合句： Having implemented advanced medical technology in our hospitals, we have seen a significant improvement in patient care and treatment outcomes. 复合句里的从句: Having implemented advanced medical technology in our hospitals （在我们的医院实施了先进的医疗技术） 主语：we (隐含的主语) 动词：implemented（实施了） 解释：这个从句提供了背景信息，解释了主句发生的前提条件。 复合句里的主句: we have seen a significant improvement in patient care and treatment outcomes （我们在患者护理和治疗结果方面看到了显著的改善） 主语：we（我们） 动词：have seen（看到了） 解释：这是主要观点或结果，描述了实施先进医疗技术所带来的结果。 简单句3： Schools are equipped with the latest educational tools. They are able to adopt innovative teaching methods to enhance student learning. “动词ing+从句，主句”结构的复合句： Being equipped with the latest educational tools, schools are able to adopt innovative teaching methods to enhance student learning. 复合句里的从句: Being equipped with the latest educational tools （配备了最新的教育工具） 主语：schools (隐含的主语) 动词：equipped（配备了） 解释：这个从句提供了背景信息，解释了主句发生的原因。 复合句里的主句: schools are able to adopt innovative teaching methods to enhance student learning （学校能够采用创新的教学方法来增强学生的学习效果） 主语：schools（学校） 动词：are able to adopt（能够采用） 解释：这是主要观点或结果，描述了配备最新教育工具所带来的结果。 简单句4： Companies allow employees to have more flexible work schedules. They are implementing remote work policies to increase satisfaction. “动词ing+从句，主句”结构的复合句： Allowing employees to have more flexible work schedules, companies are implementing remote work policies to increase satisfaction. 复合句里的从句: Allowing employees to have more flexible work schedules （允许员工有更灵活的工作时间） 主语：companies (隐含的主语) 动词：allowing（允许） 解释：这个从句提供了背景信息，解释了主句发生的前提条件。 复合句里的主句: companies are implementing remote work policies to increase satisfaction（公司正在实施远程工作政策以提高满意度） 主语：companies（公司） 动词：are implementing（正在实施） 解释：这是主要观点或结果，描述了允许灵活工作时间表所带来的结果。 以上句型的从句部分，尤其适合seeing, having, being, allowing这几个动词来引导。 这些复杂句通过从句提供背景信息或原因，进一步解释主句表达的主要观点或结果。通过这种结构，句子更具信息量、更有层次感，可以展示我们对复杂语法结构的掌握。 这种句型在学术写作中（比如雅思）尤为重要，有助于我们清晰、详细地传达信息。 但在雅思写作中，不推荐重复使用同样的句型，比如上面的句型，在一篇雅思作文中最多出现两遍就可以。 因为： * 雅思写作评分标准之一是语法的多样性和灵活性。重复使用同样的句型会让考官觉得你的语言能力有限，无法灵活运用不同的语法结构和词汇来表达思想。 * 此外，重复使用同样的句型会使文章显得单调乏味，缺乏变化。使用多样的句型和连接词可以增强文章的连贯性和逻辑性，使你的观点和论据更加清晰易懂。 所以在备考的过程中，多积累不同的句型和表达方式，你可以在考试中更好地展示英语水平。 [图片]

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 What kinds of markets are there in your country? In my country, markets are incredibly diverse and cater to practically every consumer need. There are wet markets, clothing markets, book markets, computer markets, flower markets, and the like. For instance, wet markets are a staple in many neighborhoods, offering an array of fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables. These places buzz with early morning activity, where the freshness of produce is paramount, and where even bargaining can be a part of the shopping experience. Clothing markets are also widespread, presenting affordable apparel options for the entire family. They are a go-to for those looking to update their wardrobe without breaking the bank. Computer and phone markets are also bustling hubs of the latest technology, where one can find cutting-edge gadgets or have their existing devices repaired or upgraded. Book markets are a haven for readers, providing a vast selection of literature across different genres, from educational to fiction. Meanwhile, those looking to furnish their homes can head to a furniture market, which offer a variety of styles and designs to suit any taste and budget. So, yes, indeed, there are markets for virtually every item in my country. * incredibly 难以置信地 * cater to 满足 * practically 几乎 * wet markets 菜市场 * staple 主要部分 * offer an array of 提供一系列 * fresh meats 鲜肉 * buzz with 热闹 * freshness 新鲜 * produce 产品 * paramount 至关重要 * bargaining 讲价 * shopping experience 购物体验 * widespread 广泛的 * affordable apparel 平价服装 * the entire family 全家 * a go-to 首选 * update 更新 * update their wardrobe 买衣服 * without breaking the bank 不花大钱 * bustling hubs 繁忙的地方 * cutting-edge 先进的；尖端的 * gadgets 电子产品 * devices 设备 * repaired 维修 * a vast selection of 大量的选择 * literature 文学 * across different genres 涵盖各种类型 * fiction 小说 * furnish 装饰 * virtually 几乎 [图片] Do you think small markets will disappear in the future? Hmmm, let me see, well, I guess in the foreseeable future, it's probable that small markets may indeed be phased out. The pervasive reach of online shopping has revolutionized how we do our shopping. The younger generation, for example, frequently purchase daily necessities like vegetables through e-commerce platforms, enjoying the convenience of home delivery. Personally, routine items for my pets, such as cat food and litter, are bought online in bulk, sparing me the inconvenience of transporting heavy goods. Moreover, the proliferation of expansive shopping malls has significantly altered the retail landscape. These all-encompassing complexes, which include a myriad of dining options, entertainment venues, and a vast array of retail stores, offer an integrated shopping experience that small markets struggle to compete with. Thus, these factors collectively suggest that smaller markets are at risk of becoming overshadowed in the future retail ecosystem. [图片] Have people’s shopping habits changed in recent years? Yes, definitely. There has been a definitive shift in people's shopping habits over recent years. I would say momentum has decidedly swung from traditional, offline markets to online platforms, and from quaint local bazaars to modern shopping malls. Where once the local markets and town stores were the go-to places for everyday purchases, nowadays the convenience of online shopping allows people to make purchases from across the country, with goods delivered straight to their doorstep. Additionally, the emergence of large, modern shopping malls has further influenced consumer behavior. These malls, with their comprehensive assortment of outlets, have become a one-stop destination for shoppers. For some families, visiting a mall has turned into a weekend ritual, spending half a day exploring the numerous shopping and entertainment options available. This evolution reflects a broader transformation in lifestyle and preferences, gravitating towards convenience and variety. [图片] Why do some people like to buy expensive goods? Where I live, like in many other cultures, there's a prevalent belief encapsulated by the expression "you get what you pay for." This proverb underscores the notion that the cost of an item is often reflected in its quality. Consequently, when purchasing ‘so-called’ durable items like home appliances, furniture, or cars, many adhere to this philosophy, opting for more expensive goods with the expectation of superior quality and durability. It's not just about the practicality though; there's also the aspects of prestige and status associated with owning high-end goods. Furthermore, suspiciously low prices can actually deter consumers, as they might associate the reduced cost with potential defects or inferior quality. Thus, people are willing to invest in expensive goods, believing that they are not just paying for the product but also for the assurance of excellence, longevity, and for some, status. Shownotes超字数了，需要看完整文本的朋友，请移步我们的同名公众号：英语考试Cat

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 Describe a time you bought something from a street (or outdoor) market You should say: * When it was * Where the market was * What you bought * And how you felt about it [图片] A time I bought something from a street market was last year in August during a Night Festival held near my University. It had a vibrant atmosphere filled with stalls selling various items, from crafts to street food. Among the bustling crowd, I found myself drawn to a particular stall at the food court, where they were selling a local street food delicacy called "potato tornado." The queue for the potato tornado was quite long, but I patiently waited as I was intrigued by the unique name and appearance of the snack. Finally, when it was my turn, I eagerly ordered one, dying to try the snack that looked so mouthwatering. The potato tornado consisted of thinly sliced potato pieces skewered onto a long stick and twisted to resemble a tornado shape. The vendor then sprinkled some spices on it to add flavor, giving it a slightly spicy kick. As I took my first bite, I was pleasantly surprised by the delicious taste and crunchy texture of the potato tornado. It was a novel experience for me, as I had never tried anything quite like it before. Enjoying the snack with my friends added to the enjoyment, as we laughed and chatted while exploring the other stalls at the market. Overall, buying the potato tornado from the street market was not just about satisfying my hunger but also about experiencing something new and exciting. It left me with a sense of culinary adventure and a fond memory of a fun day spent with friends. [图片] * a vibrant atmosphere 热闹的氛围 * stalls 摊位 * crafts 工艺品 * bustling crowd 熙熙攘攘的人群 * found myself drawn to 被吸引到 * foot court 美食广场 * delicacy 美味佳肴 * queue 排队 * patiently waited 耐心等待 * intrigued by 对……感到好奇 * unique 独特的 * eagerly 渴望 * dying to try 迫不及待想尝试 * so mouthwatering 口水直流 * consisted of 包含 * sliced 切成片状的 * skewered 穿在一根棍子上 * twisted 扭曲的 * resemble 类似于 * vendor 小贩 * sprinkled 撒上 * spicy kick 微辣的味道 * pleasantly surprised by 对……感到惊喜 * crunchy texture 脆脆的口感 * a novel experience 新奇的体验 * never tried anything quite like it before 从未尝试过类似的东西 * satisfying my hunger 满足我的饥饿 * left me with a sense of 给我留下了一种……的感觉 * culinary 美食的；烹饪的 * a fond memory 美好的回忆 [图片]

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 Do you prefer to save money or spend money? As a student, saving money is a priority for me, so I do exercise restraint, particularly in clothing and entertainment purchases, capitalizing on the perpetual warm climate that allows for simple attire like T-shirts and shorts to be worn. Once in a while, I’ll treat myself to a nice dinner, and when it comes to buying books, as I enjoy reading, I adhere to a self-imposed rule: acquiring only one or two at a time and ensuring their completion before purchasing more. Thus, while I allocate my finances to meet my needs, such as rent and food and lean towards a prudent approach to managing my finances, I suppose I could say I also enjoy being able to buy what I want, but alas, I know I must also save, and place that as my priority. * priority 优先事项 * exercise restraint 克制自己 * capitalizing on 利用 * perpetual 永久的 * treat myslf to 用……来奖励自己 * adhere to 遵守 * a self-imposed rule 自定的规则 * acquire 获得 * ensure 确保 * completion 完成 * allocate ... to 分配给 * meet my needs 满足我的需求 * lean towards 倾向于 * prudent 谨慎的 [图片] How do you save money? I guess one of the most effective methods I employ is to restrain impulsive purchases, so I have what I call a 'cool-down' period. When tempted to make a purchase, I remind myself to wait a week before buying it, particularly if it’s an expensive item. Surprisingly, most of the time, the desire for the item diminishes within a few days. This approach significantly reduces impulse buying and can contribute to substantial savings over time. Additionally, I make it a point to keep so-called expense funds on my phone, and the remainder in the bank, so a mental red flag will pop up if a purchase requires me to dive into my savings. This way I am forced to really question myself as to whether I really need the item or not. * restrain 约束 * impulsive purchases 冲动购买 * cool-down period 冷静期 * tempted to 受到诱惑 * diminish 减少；降低 * significantly reduce 大幅减少 * impulse buying 冲动购买 * substantial 可观的 * remainder 剩余 * red flag 警示信号 * dive into my savings 动用储蓄 * question myself as to whether 质问自己是否…… [图片] What do you think about payment apps or mobile payments? Oh, I think they’re great. Payment apps and mobile payments have revolutionized the way we manage our finances. Gone are the days of standing in bank queues or hunting for ATMs in order to transfer or withdraw money. With just a few taps on the phone, we can effortlessly make transactions anytime and anywhere. It's incredibly convenient and time-saving. However, I've noticed a downside – the ease of digital payments can lead to impulse buying and overspending. Without physically handing over cash, it's easy to lose track of expenses and succumb to frivolous spending. Despite this drawback, I appreciate the convenience and efficiency that payment apps offer us. * revolutionized the way 革新了……的方式 * gone are the days of 已经不存在了 * queues 排队 * hunt for 搜寻 * effortlessly 毫不费力 * transactions 交易 * incredibly convenient 极其方便 * time-saving 省时的 * a downside 一个不利的方面 * digital payments 数字支付 * overspending 过度消费 * handing over cash 给现金 * succumb to 屈服于 * frivolous spending 乱花钱 [图片] Do you think cash will still be popular in the future? No, absolutely not. I firmly believe that we are living in the end days of cash and that it will soon become obsolete, especially in China where digital payments reign supreme. Personally, I can't recall the last time I used cash in China while shopping. Whether in bustling cities or small towns, mobile payments have become ubiquitous in people’s daily life. From swiping my phone at big shopping malls to settling bills at mom-and-pop stores, cashless transactions have become the norm. In other countries though, I think they will take longer to reach the same point as we have in China, for example, even in Singapore and Australia, many people still rely on cash and is still quite prevalent. I know in Western countries, they prefer to use their debit card rather than using digital payment apps, but eventually they too will become digitalized, I’m sure. * living in the end days of 末日 * obsolete 过时 * reign supreme 盛行 * bustling 繁华的 * mobile payments 移动支付 * ubiquitous 无处不在 * swipe 刷（卡） * settle bills 结账 * mom-and-pop stores 小店 * cashless transactions 无现金交易 * the norm 普遍 * rely on 依赖 * prevalent 普遍现象；正常 * debit card 信用卡 * digitalized 数字化 [图片]

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 Where do children learn skills in your country? Hmm, I think that in my country children primarily acquire skills through formal education such as schools, where they receive structured instruction in subjects like math, science, and languages. Additionally, the home plays a crucial role as parents often impart practical skills like cooking and doing household chores, instilling responsibility and independence from a young age. Moreover, extracurricular programs cater to a wide array of children's interests, offering activities such as drawing, chess, music, and dance classes. These centers serve as hubs for skill development and socialization, providing opportunities for children to explore their talents and interests beyond the confines of the classroom. So overall, I would say a combination of formal education, parental guidance, and training schools contributes to skill development for kids in my country. * primarily 主要 * acquire skills 获得技能 * formal education 正规教育 * structured instruction 有组织的教学 * play a crucial role 有关键作用 * impart practical skills 传授实用技能 * do household chores 做家务 * instill responsibility 灌输责任感 * extracurricular programs 课外活动项目 * cater to 迎合 * a wide array of 广泛的 * socialization 社交 * beyond the confines of the classroom 课堂外 * parental guidance 家长指导 [图片] What are the differences between learning skills on your own and from others? Oh, tough question, let me see. Well, I guess learning skills independently often stems from personal interest or perceived necessity, which I believe can help foster a strong sense of self-motivation. This approach offers flexibility, allowing individuals to tailor their learning pace to suit their own preferences and schedules. However, the lack of external guidance may hinder problem-solving and limit opportunities for feedback and improvement. Conversely, learning from others provides access to a range of perspectives and experiences, helping to enrich one’s learning process. Interacting with instructors or peers enables individuals to receive valuable feedback and support, enhancing their understanding and mastery of the skill. Additionally, collaborative learning environments foster teamwork and communication skills, which are invaluable in various aspects of life. So I would say those are the main differences. [图片] What skills do you think teenagers should have? Hmm, well, I would say there are a number of skills teenagers should possess before reaching adulthood. Apart from being able to do basic household chores like cooking and cleaning, I think proficiency in at least one sport is something every teenager should aim for as not only can it benefit their physical health but can also help in areas such as teamwork, discipline, and mental health. In saying that, I also think swimming, besides any other sport, should be considered as a requisite to learn since it is a life-saving skill in my opinion. I think developing fluency, or at least a working knowledge of a foreign language should be developed since it can enhance communication and opens up opportunities in a globalized world. Another skill that should be learnt, which I suppose you can say is a soft or abstract type of skill, is to develop a sense of empathy, though I’m not sure if this could be considered a skill or not, but is something that I think should be encouraged for young people to cultivate, in a sense, a sort of psychological skill of being able to read and understand others. [图片] Who should teach teenagers skills? Well, I think, primarily, parents play a pivotal role due to their deep understanding of their child's strengths, weaknesses, and individual needs. They’re able to instill foundational life skills and values through day-to-day interaction and modeling behaviors. Equally important, however, are teachers, as adolescents spend a significant portion of their time at school. Teachers not only impart academic knowledge but also serve as mentors, guiding students in developing their critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills. Besides parents and teachers, I also believe family members and friends contribute to teenagers' skill development by providing support and practical advice in various aspects of their life. Ultimately, a holistic approach involving parents, teachers, and the teen’s broader social circle ensures comprehensive skill development tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of teenagers. Notes超字数了，需要看完整notes的朋友，请移步我们的同名公众号：英语考试Cat [图片]

你好呀，欢迎收听：英语考试Cat 🐱🐱🐱🐱 On what occasions do people have to do things in a hurry? Oh, let me see. Well, I think people can often find themselves in a rush when facing a serious situation, especially when it entails a dilemma. For example, perhaps deciding if one should go out or not, you know, to say home or to head out to meet someone or go for dinner or the bar or something like that, and then when push comes to shove, and they make the decision to go out, they need to rush to get ready to go out. I think another situation when people find themselves in a rush is when something can’t be missed, in other words, facing a deadline. I would imagine that a common scenario is one where the individual needs to catch a flight or a train, or even a bus. Of course, missing the mode of transportation could result in a substantial cost or disruption to their plans, hence, a deadline is a great motivator to get moving, without hanging around. But I’m sure there are many occasions when people have to think or act swiftly. Another example that comes to mind is when taking an exam, since not completing an exam within the stipulated time frame could lead to adverse academic consequences. I’d sum up by saying that the need to act in haste is often a response to the potential negative consequences that could follow if one fails to meet the demands of the situation. * in a rush 匆忙 * a serious situation 严重的情况 * entails a dilemma 意味着两难选择 * head out 外出 * when push comes to shove 到了紧要关头 * go out 出门 * get ready 准备好 * facing a deadline 面临截止日期 * catch a flight 赶飞机 * the mode of transportation 交通方式 * result in 导致 * a substantial cost 巨大的代价 * disruption to their plans 打乱计划 * a great motivator 强大的动力 * get moving 行动起来 * without hanging around 不耽搁 * act swiftly 迅速行动 * stipulated time frame 规定的时间 * adverse 不利的 * act in haste 匆忙行事 * fails to meet the demands of 未能满足……的要求 [图片] Why do some people spend a long time on having a meal? Haha, I’ve often wondered that myself! I find it almost unbearable how some people, especially girls, can take, like, half an hour to finish something such as McDonald’s French fries. In a way though, it’s also commendable as eating is more like a ritual, something that time should be spent doing, or as some form of relaxation, a type of downtime to relax and perhaps do something else while grazing on their food. Definitely, there are of course those who, when dining on something delicious, like fine cuisine, may simply wish to savor the flavors, and so enjoying the taste becomes far more important than simply eating, in other words, putting pleasure before utility. Attending a social gathering is another reason why people might dine leisurely since the meal will probably include conversation, and so communicating with your fellow diners takes precedence. Consequently, the unhurried pace allows people to not only relish the taste of their food but also to engage in a meaningful conversation, turning mealtime into an enjoyable social event. [图片] Would people feel more satisfied if they finished doing something quickly? I have no idea, but in saying that, it is true that in today’s world, people are far more susceptible to wanting immediate gratification. From watching a video to listening to a song, to everything that is considered a chore, and perhaps even their work, people seem to want to finish the task more quickly than before. So from that perspective, I would have to say yes, a degree of satisfaction derived from completing a task quickly is probably tangible; however, in saying that, I would also imagine it varies based on the individual’s personality traits. [图片] What might make some people more productive than others in completing tasks? Well, in terms of encouraging people to be more productive, I think the number one motivator has to be money. A financial reward, no matter which type of remuneration, has always been at the forefront of being able to motivate people to be more If, however, all external influences are equal when comparing people, the reasons why one might be more productive than another is that the person might be more efficient, or more task-oriented, or more effective in their decision-making, all of which could enable that person to complete the task more quickly. Additionally, I would say that the ability to plan and organize time effectively, in other words possessing time-management skills, also serves as a main determinant in productivity. So I would say a financial reward, a combination of inherent traits and the acquired skill of effective time management can all contribute to being more productive than others. Notes超字数了，需要看词汇释义的朋友，请移步我的公众号：英语考试Cat [图片]