Level5 Unit2 Part4 Listening

World's oldest Murder

When the body of the Iceman was discovered, nobody realized that he had been murdered. It was first believed that he got lost in a storm and had died in the cold weather. However, with the discovery of an arrowhead in his body, it was clear that the Iceman was murdered. Analysis showed that the arrow had entered his body and cut through an artery in his chest. This would have caused severe bleeding and weakened him. With the loss of blood, he couldn't have survived for very long after being shot.

Further examinations revealed something more about how he may have died. Using a CT scan, scientists found blood in his brain. This indicated that he was struck on the head before he died. Either he was hit on the head or he fell and struck his head on a rock. This probably happened when he was in a weakened condition after being shot by the arrow.

Additional evidence showed that the arrow itself had been pulled out of the body. It had been pulled out with force, leaving just the arrowhead inside. Even more interesting was what was left behind, the copper ax. The technology needed to make such a weapon was new at the time. As a result, scientists believe it was a sign of great wealth and position. This suggests that the Iceman may have been an important leader. It also raises the question of why the killer didn't take it with him.

If the Iceman was important, he may have been the leader of his community. One leading theory about his death is that he was assassinated. In ancient times, to take power, you often had to kill the leader. Perhaps the Iceman was the target of an assassination. The murderer may have followed the Iceman and killed him from behind. Then, to protect his identity, he pulled out the arrow and covered the body. He left the copper ax behind so that he couldn't be identified. According to this theory, the Iceman was killed by a member of his own community. Therefore, the murderer was probably someone he knew.

Another theory is that the Iceman was killed after a battle with outsiders. Since his community was located along an important trade route it may have been attacked. The Iceman may have been a military leader fighting to defend his village. Perhaps he was in a battle with the attackers on the day that he died. According to this theory, he was fleeing from the battle and was caught from behind in an isolated area.

However, from an analysis of his stomach, it is unlikely that he was running from anyone. There was a half-pound of food in his stomach when he died. Since food only remains in the stomach for about an hour, he must have eaten a large meal shortly before his death. Someone who is in a hurry would never take the time to stop and eat such a large meal. And if he was killed by outsiders, why didn't they take the copper ax? So the question remains about what happened on that final day of his life. The truth is that nobody will ever know what really happened. The Iceman's murder will remain a mystery forever.

Level5 Unit2 Part4 Vocabulary

Interactions

To interfere, to slow something down or make it worse by getting in the way. Having too many meetings is interfering with our work. I told her to leave us alone and not to interfere in our problems.

To reflect, to think about or consider something, or to throw back image as from a mirror. Before I make a decision, I'd like some time to reflect. When you look into a mirror, your image is reflected back to you.

To influence, to have an effect on something. I think she can help us influence the others. I don't think we can influence the final result. They don't care what we think, so it will be difficult to influence their decision.

To focus, to bring attention to something and make it clear. If we don't focus on something, we won't get anything done. We aren't sure what to focus on, so everyone is confused.

To exaggerate, to describe something is larger or more important than it really is. It's difficult to believe what he says because he always exaggerates. She said she could sell anything, but of course that was an exaggeration.

Features of Information

To be persuasive, able to cause people to do something by asking or giving reasons. She is good at selling things, because she is very persuasive. You can be more persuasive if you have facts to support you.

To be convincing, to provide powerful support for a believe and to overcome doubts. The evidence that he was murdered was convincing. I couldn't convince them that I was telling the truth, so they arrested me.

To be misleading, to lead away from the truth, to give a false idea. Their advertisements are misleading, so be careful not to be fooled. He tried to mislead me into buying it by exaggerating the benefits.

To be unique, to be highly unusual or different from others. I like that design, because it's unique and attractive. She has a unique personality that some people don't like. 

To be ordinary, to be just like others, not different from any other. Their products are ordinary with nothing except a low price to recommend them. The food at that restaurant was expensive, but the taste was ordinary.

Level5 Unit2 Part4 Dialogue

Improving Personal Image

Did you see the beautiful sunset tonight?

It was gorgeous.

No I didn't, but I'm surprised you even noticed such things.

Really? Why are you surprised?

You are so focused on your work.

I didn't imagine you had room in your mind for nature.

Really? Well I just don't show it.

I make a point of it to notice such things as often as I can.

You know, I think you should try to show that side of yourself more often.

It will improve your image.

So you think my image needs improving?

Well, it wouldn't hurt to be a little less formal and to smile once in a while.

You might also improve the way you dress, maybe with a few more warm colors?

I'm afraid I don't know much about fashion design and warm colors.

Do you really think the way we dress influences people?

You must be kidding.

The first impression you give is based on your appearance and clothes.

Don't you ever notice the kind of shoes someone is wearing?

No, I hardly notice.

Well then, that explains why your shoes are always the same.

How old the shoes you are wearing now?

These? I don't know, probably a year or so.

And I bet you've been wearing them almost everyday.

They look like it.

That's right.

These shoes are comfortable and they weren't expensive.

I'll bet yours were expensive.

Well, they weren't cheap.

I think it's important to dress right. To dress for the occasion and make a good impression.

OK, why don't we go shopping together this weekend?

You can be my fashion adviser.

What’s in it for me？

If I like your advice, I'll buy you another pair of shoes.

How was that?

OK, but they won't be cheap.

You understand that, right?

Of course, but it'll be worth it if you think my new look will improve my image.

I guarantee it.