English Lesson (Listening B2): "Decision Making" (Two Parts)

Vocabulary 1
A. RATIONAL – Based on logic, reason, and clear thinking.  Example: His decision was rational and well-thought-out. 

B. INTUITIVE – Understanding without needing conscious reasoning. Example: She had an intuitive understanding of how the machine worked. 

C. GUT INSTINCT – A feeling or sense based on intuition.  Example: He trusted his gut instinct when making the decision. Q: Do you trust your gut instinct? Give an example. –

D. BIASES – Tendency to make judgments based on personal feelings.  Example: Our biases often affect our decision-making process. 

E. EXISTING BELIEFS – Ideas or opinions held before any new information. Example: His existing beliefs shaped his reaction to the news.

Guide Questions
1. What does the speaker say about decision-making?
2. What does the speaker say about the different types of decision-making?
3. What is rational decision-making?
4. What is intuitive decision-making?
5. What does the speaker say about decision-making in the workplace?
6. What is confirmation bias?

American Accent

British Accent

Vocabulary 2

F. OVERCONFIDENCE– Having more confidence than is justified by reality. Example: His overconfidence led to mistakes in the project. Q: Talk about a time when you were overconfident (adjective) –

G. OVERESTIMATE– To think something is greater or more important than it is.  Example: We often overestimate how much time tasks will take.  Q: Talk about a time when you overestimated something. What happened in the end? –

H. RISK-AVERSE – Avoiding risks or preferring safer choices. Example: He is risk-averse and avoids investing in stocks.

I. UNCERTAINTY – The state of being unsure or unclear about something. Example: There is uncertainty about the future of the economy. 

J. CAUTIOUS – Being careful to avoid mistakes or risks.  Example: He was cautious when crossing the busy street.

K. RISK-TAKERS – People who are willing to take chances.  Example: Entrepreneurs are often risk-takers in business. 

L. CONSEQUENCES– Results or effects of an action or decision.  Example: The consequences of his actions were felt by everyone. 

Guide Questions 
1. What does the speaker say about overconfidence?
2. What is anchoring bias?
3. What does the speaker say about risks?

 American Accent

 British Accent

Other versions: Decision Making

• B1 version (in 2 parts) – Low intermediate level
• B2 version (in 2 parts) - Middle intermediate level
• B2 version  - High intermediate level