Opción B - II. Use of English · Inglés PAU Andalucía Extraordinaria Reserva A 2013

OPTION B: “Time Is Worth More Than Money.”

1 “Today for you, tomorrow for me”, six words that sum up the spirit of an initiative that has appeared in many

2 cities around the world: time banking. There is no money in these peculiar banks. Instead, they offer a variety of services

3 based on the abilities of the members, and they pay with hours, not money. Each client offers their own abilities to the rest of

4 the members and can earn the help of others who want to share what they know. The hours system offers a variety of

5 possibilities, such as advice about investing in the stock exchange, teaching how to cut hair, technology or language classes,

6 and even plumbing.

7 Time banking is different from other community or volunteering projects because everyone’s time is valued equally.

8 The system recognises that everyone has needs and something to offer. When joining a time bank, people agree to both

9 give to and benefit from the project, increasing self-esteem, integration and personal relationships. People are able to access

10 help or services that they may not otherwise be able to afford. It also reduces isolation and loneliness. Everyone benefits

11 from being part of something bigger than themselves.

12 Time banks help build a sense of community where people know neighbours and can rely on each other for support.

13 They bring together people of different ages, cultures, backgrounds and abilities, who interact with each other with mutual

14 respect and understanding.

15 The only objection some people make is that they sometimes have doubts and may feel uncertain of other members’

16 offerings of service. However, in order to overcome this emotion and for security reasons, everyone who wants to become a

17 member is interviewed and must provide references. Those wishing to work with children or vulnerable adults are checked by

18 the police.

II * USE OF ENGLISH (3 points; questions 6-9, 0.25 points each; 10-13, 0.5 points each)

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