TED Talk English Learning Lesson
Cameron Russell: 
Looks aren't everything. Believe me, I'm a model

In this English learning lesson, Cameron Russell, an American fashion model, talks about her image and why her looks aren't what you might imagine.

Cameron has been modeling for more than 10 years and has been featured in the international editions of Vogue magazine and in ads for famous brands like Benetton, Luis Vuitton, and Yves Saint Laurent. She has also been a runway model for Victoria Secret, Chanel, Versace and numerous other famous designers.

In this TED Talk, Cameron talks about how powerful image can be but also why image isn't everything. She also answers some of the popular questions that people ask her.

It's time to practice your English comprehension. Don't worry, the video is less than 10 minutes long and if you have trouble understanding, there are some learning aids: 

Instructions for this English learning lesson:

1. Watch the video below.
2. Take the quiz to test your comprehension.
3. Read the transcript for further practice.
4. Watch the video again with the translation in your language if you need additional help understanding the video. The video is currently translated in 35 languages!
5. Leave comments on what you think about the video.
6. “Rinse and repeat” (= do the steps over again) if you want additional practice.

English learning lesson step #2: Quiz

Let's see what you were able to understand. This is a really short quiz to check your understanding of the video.

Click here to take the short quiz

 

English learning lesson step #3: Review the transcript/translation 

Cameron Russell: 

Hi. My name is Cameron Russell, and for the last little while I've been a model. Actually, for 10 years. And I feel like there's an uncomfortable tension in the room right now because I should not have worn this dress. (Laughter)

So luckily I brought an outfit change. This is the first outfit change on the TED stage, so you guys are pretty lucky to witness it, I think.

If some of the women were really horrified when I came out, you don't have to tell me now, but I'll find out later on Twitter. (Laughter)

I'd also note that I'm quite privileged to be able to transform what you think of me in a very brief 10 seconds. Not everybody gets to do that. These heels are very uncomfortable, so good thing I wasn't going to wear them.

The worst part is putting this sweater over my head, because that's when you'll all laugh at me, so don't do anything while it's over my head.

All right.

So why did I do that? That was awkward.

Click here for the full transcript and instructions for how to see the translation. 

You can also watch this video on Ted Talks' website.

Your Turn to Practice Writing

Now it’s your turn to practice your writing skills!

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