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General Listening Quiz

“Payday Loans”

Level Topic Speakers Length
Intermediate Payday Loans Man – Woman 01:43

Pre-Listening Exercise

Is borrowing money for these things a good idea? Why or why not?

  • a new car
  • a used car
  • a vacation
  • school tuition
  • new clothing
  • a wedding
  • cosmetic surgery
  • a smartphone
  • a house

Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!

These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.

  • In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.

  • In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?

  • For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and check your progress.

  1. Getting a loan is helpful for people in financial emergencies.
  2. Loan services exploit people who are financially vulnerable.
  3. The government should strictly regulate payday loan companies.
  4. People should avoid borrowing money at all costs.
  5. Borroing money from a bank is easier and faster than asking family or friends for money.
  6. High-interest rates on loans are fair because of the risk lenders take.
  • a wedding
  • cosmetic surgery
  • a smartphone
  • a house

Idioms

nest egg” = extra money to save for the future
We need to have a nest egg in case the economy worsens.”

be broke” = be out of money
Brandon is broke, so I can’t buy any food this week.”

Listening Exercise

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Post-Listening Exercise

Listen to the conversation again. What advice can you give the man in this situation? Is he making a good choice? Are there other ways he could pay for his plans instead of taking out a payday loan? Explain.

Online Investigation

Use the internet to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of payday loans. Are such companies or services available in your country? 

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