ToEFL - Listening - Lecture - Fads

What is the main topic of the lecture?

• The characteristics of fads

• The difference between fads and trends

• The characteristics of trends

• How fads and trends affect our lives

How does the professor introduce fads?

• He gives a definition.

• He tells a personal story.

• He contrasts them with trends.

• He asks the class a question.

According to the professor, what is the main difference between a fad and a trend?

• The length of time that each one lasts

• How quickly an industry accepts them

• How well they cross over into other industries

• How much money people earn from them

Prof: Distinguishing between fads and trends is an art, not a science. If it were easy, there would be a lot more rich people in the world. Yes, in the back.

S1: Yeah, um...can't people get rich from fads, too?

Why does the professor say this: "Yes, in the back."?

• He is introducing a new idea about trends and fads.

• He is telling a student there is something on the back of his or her shirt.

• He is recognizing a student who has raised a hand to ask a question.

• He wants students in the back of the room to quit talking and listen.

Prof: What do blogs, Pokemon, tattoos, Cabbage Patch Kids, pet rocks, and hula hoops have in common? Anybody?

S1: They're all stupid.

What does the student mean when she says this: "They're all stupid."?

• She thinks the people who started these fads are not intelligent.

• She thinks people who participate in these fads are foolish.

• She wants the professor to discuss a more humorous topic.

• She thinks all of her classmates are dumb.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a fad?

• It has a definite beginning and ending.

• It can cross over into different industries.

• Large companies do not accept it right away.

• It usually has a short-term influence.