Exercise 1 – Vocabulary

Repeat each word, definition, and example sentence after your tutor.

1. flexibility (noun) – the ability to adapt easily to different situations.
   Example: Remote work gives employees greater flexibility in managing their time.

2. productivity (noun) – how much work is completed in a certain period of time.
   Example: Some companies reported higher productivity when workers stayed at home.

3. hybrid model (noun) – a system that combines two different approaches.
   Example: Many businesses are adopting a hybrid model of remote and office work.

4. collaboration (noun) – working together with others to achieve a goal.
   Example: Managers worry that remote work makes collaboration more difficult.

5. overhead costs (noun) – the basic expenses of running a business.
   Example: Remote work can reduce overhead costs like office rent and utilities.

6. talent pool (noun) – the group of people available for employment.
   Example: Remote work allows companies to access a global talent pool.

7. retention (noun) – the ability to keep employees in a company.
   Example: Flexible working hours improve employee retention.

Exercise 2 – Article

Remote Work and the Future of Offices

By 2025, remote work has become a permanent part of the business landscape. During the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of employees around the world began working from home. What started as an emergency solution has now evolved into a long-term strategy for many companies.

Businesses have discovered several benefits. Remote work reduces overhead costs and gives access to a larger talent pool, since employees no longer need to live near company headquarters. Employees often report higher job satisfaction and improved work-life balance, which can increase retention.

However, challenges remain. Collaboration can suffer when teams are not physically together. Many leaders also worry about maintaining company culture, training new staff, and measuring productivity fairly. To address these issues, many firms now use a hybrid model, combining office days with remote days.

Real estate companies are also adapting. In some cities, demand for traditional office space has dropped, while demand for co-working spaces and flexible offices has increased. Experts predict that the office of the future will be smaller, more flexible, and designed for collaboration rather than daily desk work.

As technology improves and attitudes change, remote and hybrid work are likely to shape the global economy for decades to come.

Exercise 3 – Discussion

• Do you think remote work increases or decreases productivity? Why?

• Would you prefer a hybrid model or fully remote work?

• What do you think are the biggest challenges of managing remote teams?

• How do you think company culture can survive without a physical office?

• Is remote work common in your country? Why or why not?

Exercise 4 – Further Discussion

• Do you think all jobs can be done remotely? Why or why not?

• How could remote work affect big cities and local economies?

• What role does technology (video calls, AI, cloud platforms) play in enabling remote work?

• Do you think younger employees should spend more time in the office to learn? Why or why not?

• What do you imagine offices will look like in 2050?

Exercise 5 – Writing Task

Write a short essay (150–200 words) on the following:

"Some companies want employees back in the office full-time. Others believe remote work is the future. Which side do you agree with? Give reasons and examples to support your answer."

Sample Essay (TOEFL Style)

I believe that remote work is the future of employment, and companies that resist this change will struggle to remain competitive.

First, remote work gives businesses access to a much larger talent pool. Instead of hiring only people who live near the office, companies can now hire employees from anywhere in the world. This not only increases diversity but also helps organizations find highly qualified candidates. For example, a company in New York can now easily employ a skilled programmer from India or Brazil.

Second, employees are more likely to stay with a company that offers flexibility. Studies show that flexible work arrangements improve retention because workers can balance their personal and professional lives more easily. By contrast, forcing employees back into the office may create frustration and even lead to higher turnover.

Of course, remote work brings challenges, such as collaboration and maintaining company culture. However, with today’s technology, these problems can be managed. Video conferencing, cloud platforms, and virtual team-building activities make it possible to stay connected.

In conclusion, remote work is not just a trend but a long-term shift in how business is done. It benefits both employees and employers, and I believe it will continue to grow in the future.