You will now read a short passage and listen to a lecture on the same topic. You will then be asked a question about them. After you hear the question, give yourself 30 seconds to prepare your response. Then record yourself speaking for 60 seconds.
Listen to Track 222.
Now read a passage about the field of aesthetics. You have 45 seconds to read the passage. Begin reading now.
Reading Time: 45 seconds
Aesthetics is the science of beauty and pleasure. Scientists in this field, known as aestheticians, seek to understand the fundamental nature of beauty, as well as how and why it affects our emotions so much. Aestheticians are also interested in how the ideals of beauty have differed across cultures and time periods. Some have even considered the idea that beauty can exist on its own, independent of human perception.
The study of aesthetics dates back over two thousand years to the ancient Greek philosopher Plato and his followers.
Listen to Track 223.
Using the professor’s examples, explain the field of aesthetics and discuss why it is not well-studied or well-understood.
Preparation Time: 30 seconds
Response Time: 60 seconds