CAE part 4

 Speaking part 4

Here are some team building activities which have been suggested for new members of a social club. Talk to each other about how effective these activities would be in helping people to get to know each other better. 

Possible questions. 

1. Some people say that team building activities are a waste of time. Do you agree?

2. What qualities does a person need to be a good team member?

3. What can managers do to make sure their teams of employees work well together on a day to day basis?

4. Large clubs and organizations are more likely than small ones to organize theme building activities. Why do you think this is?

5. What problems can arise if individuals in a large organization feel isolated or undervalued?

6. Is it always best for people to avoid conflict with others? Why not?

Extract 1

No, not at all. I think it's really important for people who are going to be spending time together to get to know each other properly as quickly as possible. I don't have any experience of these activities myself, but I imagine if they are well thought out, they can be very worthwhile for the people who go on them, as well as for any clubs and organizations they belong to. There are probably a few individuals who cant see the point of them - and ironically, these may be the people who most need these activities- but I'd say the majority find them enjoyable and useful. 

What do you think Martha?

Well. I think I’d benefit from them personally, but not everyone would be comfortable with activities like these and I don't think they should be forced to take part if they don't want to. 

Extract 2

I'd say it's easy for individuals to feel a bit lost in a large club, and particularly when they first join, especially if they don't already know anyone who belongs. In this situation team building activities provide opportunities for people to get to know each other better more effectively than simply leaving things to chance, so that when they start joining in club activities, they feel more comfortable. That's not likely to be such a problem for members of smaller clubs where everyone gets to know everyone else quite quickly. 

Do you agree, Laura?

Yes, I do. I think in smaller organizations people tend to get together socially, and maybe don't need things organized for them. 

Useful vocab

Nouns: achievement, a common goal, cooperation, incentive.  Verbs: appreciate, compete, contribute, cooperate, share, support, respect.  Adjectives: constructive, creative, productive, supportive, worthwhile.