#FebruaryChallenge
#Podcast

Topic: Funding Bias in Scientific Research

This is another nuanced and seldom-discussed topic in IELTS.
Finding the right podcast on the subject was really challenging so I had to choose the one that's slightly longer in duration.
And since the ready-made transcript wasn't available, I am working to create one. As soon as the transcript is ready, it will be on its way.

For now, just enjoy the podcast think of an IELTS writing question that speaks to this issue.

P.S. Any volunteers willing to assist with the transcript are welcome!

#FebruaryChallenge

Here I am sending the WORD version; It is 80% accurate, but if you want, you can make corrections while you listen to it and share it in the comments section;
We will adopt the version with the fewest mistakes and turn it into a pdf document later!

Good luck! Let's see who has the best listening skills :)

#FebruaryChallenge

Day 7 'Funding Bias'

Additional reading material (bonus)

This particular passage fits in well with one of the official IELTS T2 writing questions:

Governments should be responsible for funding and controlling scientific research rather than private organizations.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

P.S. Hopefully, now you can see the connection between the materials I am sending and some of the authentic writing questions that are beyond mainstream topics.

#GuessTheIDIOM

What expression or idiom do you think is depicted here?

Definition: the act of accepting an offer or reacting to a situation in a way that someone has been led or tempted to, often to their own detriment.

Example: Despite the warning signs and his better judgment, John couldn’t resist the lucrative job offer and _____ __ ___, only to realize it involved unethical practices. (each blank represents one word).

#FebruaryChallenge

Podcast Transcript

#FebruaryChallenge

Topic: Personality Tests in Hiring

Discussion: Should companies use personality or intelligence tests in employment? What are advantages and disadvantages of using personality tests in recruitment?

#FebruaryChallenge

Feb 12: Zoning and Urban Planning: pros and cons

Today, I've decided to start with a YouTube video to introduce today's topic: Zoning in Urban Planning

We definitely need to learn how to plan our cities given all the pollution problems in Tashkent, hopefully, after learning more about today's topic, maybe we can encourage someone to take on this challenge in the future. At the very least, you will be prepared to handle any IELTS question related to this topic.

https://youtu.be/WNe9C866I2s?si=pAsVT0oWsYL7zy-Q

#FebruaryChallenge

Here is a short article covering some of the basic arguments about the advantages and disadvantages of zoning.

Are you familiar or can you guess the writing task 2 question that is based on this concept?

I have been experiencing a cough and sore throat, so it is only natural I was looking at this informative YouTube video about the immune system. It was so incredible that I wanted to share it with you guys as well!

https://youtu.be/lXfEK8G8CUI?si=megCa0sRYzbB8la4

#FebruaryChallenge

Feb 13: Finding Focus

#Podcast

We spend more and more of our lives staring at screens. Our cellphones, smartwatches and laptops allow us to communicate instantly with people anywhere in the world, and quickly look up obscure facts. But our digital devices are also altering our brains in profound ways. This week, psychologist Gloria Mark explores how our ability to focus is shrinking, and offers ways to protect our minds in a world filled with endless distractions.

Original podcast can be found: https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/finding-focus/

#FebruaryChallenge

A bonus article- for those who like reading- with a lot of great vocabulary!

Happy reading!