2. Learning & Education
- EXPLAIN → Why / How
- DESCRIBE → What you see / know
- COMPARE / CONTRAST → Same vs different
- OUTLINE → Simple examples
- DISCUSS → Multiple views & opinions
- EXPRESS OPINION → What I think
- RECOMMEND / SUGGEST → What should happen
PRACTICE THE VOCABULARY
2. Learning & Education ✔
PRACTICE reading
2. Learning & education - Reading B1 ✔
practice questions
Education
1. Have you got a university degree? If not, why not?
2. Do you enjoy learning languages or do you prefer other topics?
3. What is the best way to learn something new?
4. Did you used to enjoy studying on your own as a child?
5. Is it easy to get used to doing a new skill?
6. Are you going to learn an new subject in the future?
7. Would you say that it is essential to get a degree in today´s society?
8. Have you ever failed an important exam?
9. Are you the kind of person who spends a long time studying for exams?
10. Why are you studying English at the moment?
WORK
1. Would you prefer to work or be a student?
2. Should we get a job that you enjoy?
3. What motivates you more, having a challenging job or earning lots of money?
4. What would you work as in your ideal job?
5. Would you like to set up your own business in the future?
6. Have you ever worked in a job that you couldn´t stand?
7. Are you a very dedicated person when you have to work on something?
8. Do you tend to take many breaks while you are working?
9. How long have you been doing your current job?
10. Have you ever been unemployed for a long period of time?
watch video
'Bring on the learning revolution'
Level: B1-2
Length: 17:54
Produced by: Ken Robinson.
Exam queston B2
2. Learning & Education
B2 Oral Exam Task
Situation:
You are an education policy advisor working with schools and adult education institutions.
Part 1 – Describe
Describe the main changes in education systems that are mentioned in the text.
Part 2 – Discuss
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using digital technology in education.
Part 3 – Give your opinion
Give your opinion on whether modern education systems should focus more on practical skills than on traditional exams. Support your answer with reasons and examples.
"In recent years, education systems across Europe have been under increasing pressure to adapt to social, technological, and economic change. Traditional classroom-based learning, centred on textbooks and teacher-led instruction, is now frequently combined with digital tools, project-based learning, and independent research tasks.
One major development has been the integration of digital technology into schools and adult education. Online learning platforms, learning apps, and hybrid teaching models became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic and have remained in use since then. Supporters argue that digital tools allow for more flexible learning, personalised pacing, and improved access for learners in remote areas. Critics, however, point to increased screen time, reduced concentration, and unequal access to technology.
Another ongoing debate concerns the balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Employers increasingly emphasise communication skills, critical thinking, and adaptability, while education systems are often still assessed primarily through written exams. As a result, many institutions are rethinking assessment methods and experimenting with presentations, group projects, and continuous assessment.
Lifelong learning has also become a key concept in modern education policy. Due to rapid changes in the labour market, adults are expected to update their skills regularly throughout their careers. This has led to a rise in evening courses, online certificates, and workplace-based training programmes.
Educational experts agree that effective learning depends not only on content, but also on motivation, learning environment, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-life contexts."