Home
Listening
Listen to an Academic Talk Test #046
Listen to an Academic Talk
1. What is the main topic of the lecture?
A) The history of urban development
B) The definition and importance of third places
C) How technology improves social interaction
D) Difficulties of working from home
2. According to the professor, what is considered a "second place"?
A) A community center
B) The home
C) The workplace
D) A public park
3. What can be inferred about a community with many third places?
A) It likely has a strong sense of social connection.
B) It probably has high levels of social isolation.
C) Its residents spend most of their time at work.
D) Its residents prefer digital communication.
4. Why does the professor mention cafes and parks?
A) To question their importance in modern society
B) To suggest they are becoming less common
C) To contrast them with first and second places
D) To provide examples of a key concept
Professor: Today, we'll discuss the concept of "third places," a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg in 1989. In his view, our first place is the home, and our second place is the workplace. Third places, then, are the informal public spaces where people gather and interact. Think of places like cafes, parks, libraries, or community centers.
These spots are crucial for civil society and community vitality because they foster a sense of belonging and encourage casual, creative interaction among diverse people. Oldenburg argued that these are anchors of community life.
However, many social observers note a decline in third places, particularly in suburban areas dominated by private homes and cars. The rise of digital communication has also changed how we interact. This shift could have significant implications, potentially leading to increased social isolation and a weaker sense of local community.
These spots are crucial for civil society and community vitality because they foster a sense of belonging and encourage casual, creative interaction among diverse people. Oldenburg argued that these are anchors of community life.
However, many social observers note a decline in third places, particularly in suburban areas dominated by private homes and cars. The rise of digital communication has also changed how we interact. This shift could have significant implications, potentially leading to increased social isolation and a weaker sense of local community.
Highlights
| ID: | #io3576691982 |
Tags
New TOEFL