Response Points: (Response time: 1-1.5 minutes, please select and discuss 4 out of 6 topics listed below) 

• Mention the book title, author, and a brief summary of the book.

• Explain why you chose the book and how it aligns with your interests or academic goals.

• Discuss key themes or ideas in the book that resonate with you.

• Highlight any new perspectives or insights you gained from reading it.

• Relate the book to your current studies or future aspirations, if applicable.

• Mention how the book has influenced your thinking or broadened your knowledge.

Sample Response:

Right now, I’m reading “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari (referring to point 1). I picked it up because I’ve always been fascinated by how human societies have evolved, and this book offers a really broad yet accessible overview of our history from the emergence of Homo sapiens to the present (referring to point 2).

One of the main themes that has caught my attention is how human cultures and societies are shaped by myths and shared beliefs, which, in turn, create things like religions, nations, and even financial systems (referring to point 3). It’s interesting to see how these intangible ideas have had such a concrete impact on history.

What I find particularly insightful is the way Harari connects historical events with human psychology. It’s made me reflect on how we, as individuals, contribute to and are influenced by larger societal structures (referring to point 4).

As someone who is curious about both history and technology, I also appreciate how the book touches on the future of humanity, especially in terms of technological advancements and artificial intelligence. It aligns with my interest in understanding the broader context of technological developments (referring to point 5).

Overall, it’s given me a new perspective on the forces that have shaped our world, and I think it has definitely broadened my thinking about the intersection of science, history, and society (referring to point 6).

Response Points: (Response time: 1-1.5 minutes, please select and discuss 4 out of 6 topics listed below) 

• Explain your general learning strategy or approach to acquiring new vocabulary.

• Mention specific techniques or tools you would use (e.g., flashcards, spaced repetition, language apps).

• Discuss the importance of active usage of the words, such as writing sentences or engaging in conversation.

• Highlight the role of consistency and daily review in mastering vocabulary.

• Talk about how you would track progress and ensure retention of words over time.

• Relate the approach to your broader learning style or experience with language acquisition.

Sample Response:

If I were to learn 50 new words every day, I’d start by breaking them down into manageable chunks, maybe groups of 10 throughout the day. I think dividing the workload helps prevent feeling overwhelmed and makes it easier to focus (referring to point 1).

For learning tools, I would definitely use flashcards—probably a digital app that incorporates spaced repetition. This method works because it brings back words for review just when I’m about to forget them, helping them stick in my memory (referring to point 2).

But I know that just memorising words isn’t enough. I’d make sure to actively use them by writing sentences or even trying to use them in conversation. I find that using words in context really helps solidify them in my mind (referring to point 3).

To keep track of my progress, I’d probably make a list of the words I’ve learned and periodically test myself to make sure I’m retaining them. This way, I can make adjustments if I notice any words slipping away (referring to point 5).

Response Points: (Response time: 1-1.5 minutes, please select and discuss 3 out of 5  topics listed below) 

• Start by describing the physical properties of the plastic bag (size, colour, texture).

• Consider the material and speculate on its possible uses based on its durability or composition.

• Discuss the environmental or cultural context, including how the plastic might reflect the time period it was used in.

• Speculate on the technology or methods that could have been used to create the plastic.

• Mention the significance of finding such an artifact, including what it reveals about society, economy, or habits at that time.

Sample Response:

If I found a plastic bag 2,000 years from now, I’d probably start by describing its physical characteristics—maybe it’s a thin, flexible material, lightweight, and likely transparent or slightly coloured (referring to point 1). It would feel smooth and maybe a bit crinkly to the touch.

Looking at the material, I’d assume it was made for short-term use, given its lightweight and non-biodegradable nature. It could’ve been used to carry goods or everyday items, something that people might’ve discarded quickly after use (referring to point 2).

From an environmental perspective, it would stand out as a sign of a time when humans used synthetic materials that lasted far longer than their intended use. This might tell me that the society that created it wasn’t fully aware of or concerned with the environmental consequences of their materials (referring to point 3).

In terms of technology, I’d imagine it was produced in large quantities using some kind of mass-manufacturing process, maybe involving petroleum-based products. It would reflect a level of industrialization where efficiency and convenience were prioritised (referring to point 4).