Today’s picture: Northern tip of New Zealand

Part 1: Today's word

‘Indicate’ is a more formal, but also a weaker word than ‘show’. It’s used when the conclusion from the research isn’t so clear. This is very common, so the word ‘indicate’ is also very commonly found in research reports. It can also be used to refer to something you’ve said earlier in your essay – ‘As indicated in part 1, it’s difficult to make generalisations in this field. However, ….' The noun is ‘indication’ – meaning a sign.

Part 2: Test

Here are four sentences using the word of the day, but only three are correct. Which is the odd one out?

The latest research indicates a growing trend towards eating in cars.

The results can be seen as an indication of increasing uncertainty in the markets.

As he was a new employee, I indicated him how to access the various information systems.

The director indicated that she would not be part of the team in the long term.

Part 3: Practice Questions:

What gestures are used in different cultures to indicate agreement, disagreement, surprise or frustration?

What indications are there that the economy is getting stronger (or weaker)?

For more practice, try: www.academicenglishgenerator.com

Part 4: Kiwi Quiz Question

Maori people are also known as 'tangata whenua'. What does this mean?

Brave fighters
Permanent Residents
People of the land
First Nation

Part 5: Today's article:

Denmark World's Happiest Nation (from BBC)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/7487143.stm

Vocabulary for the article: marred / poverty / prosperity

Questions for the article:

How many countries were surveyed?
Which was the unhappiest?
What are the main factors which contribute to happiness?
Are people generally getting happier?

Today’s musical intro: from Bulgaria
Polegnala e todora by The Bulgarian State Radio and Television Women’s Vocal Chorus. From the CD ‘Le Mystere des Voix Bulgares. Nonesuch Records, 1990.