سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس با جواب
سوالات و موضوعات اسپیکینگ هر چهار ماه یک بار (ژانویه، می،سپتامبر) دستخوش تغییرات میشود، و ممکن است سوالات و موضوعاتی اضافه و کم شوند. همچنین برای دیدن سایر سوالات کلی اسپیکینگ IELTS به این صفحه مراجعه کنید.
دستهبندی سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس پارت 2 در بخشهای people, place, object, event, activity, favorite آمده است. اگر تکنیک های اسپیکینگ آیلتس پارت 2 را نمیدانید، به این صفحه مراجعه نمایید تا واژگان و ایدهپردازی مربوط به هر دسته را یاد بگیرید.
بهترین روش برای تقویت مهارت speaking آیلتس، صحبت کردن با یک پارتنر است. سایت ها و اپلیکیشن های زیادی برای پیدا کردن partner وجود دارد که با یک سرچ ساده می توانید آنها را پیدا کنید.
این صفحه نه تنها حاوی پرسش و پاسخ سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس است بلکه شامل واژگان مهم که به صورت پررنگ (bold) مشخص شده است، می باشد. این واژگان خاص نیز در زیر سوال با معنی و مثال توضیح داده شده است تا به درک و کاربرد آن کلمه کمک کند. هر موضوع همچنین شامل اصطلاحات، محاوره ها و عباراتی است که به شما کمک می کند تا امتیاز باند خوبی کسب کنید.
تکنیک پاسخگویی به سوالات اسپیکینگ آیلتس
همانگونه که در پایین مشاهده میکنید، سوالات اسپیکینگ آیلتس در شش دستهبندی people, place, object, event, activity, favorite آمده است. چنانچه با تکنیک پاسخگویی به سوالات اسپیکینگ پارت 2 آشنا نیستید، اینجا کلیک کنید.
نحوه ایده پردازی در IELTS Speaking
اگر فقط از دایرهلغات ذهن خودتان استفاده کنید، چیز جدیدی یاد نخواهید گرفت و پیشرفت نخواهید کرد. تمرین کنید تا ایدههای گفته شده در هر سوال را با نظرات خود مرتبط کنید. شما صرفاً نباید مانند نمونه جواب ها صحبت کنید، بلکه باید از نظرات خود هم استفاده کنید. جملاتی که با موضوع اسپیکنیگ همخوانی نداشته باشند، نمره شما را تاحدودی کاهش خواهد داد.
چگونه برای IELTS Speaking Prat 3 آماده شوید؟
پیشنهاد من (بهرام زندی) این است که دایره لغات خودتان را برای 6 دسته زیر بالا ببرید. اولین قدم شناسایی نوع دسته سوال است. سپس در مورد آن سوال، داستانی واقعی یا تخیلی بسازید. برای دیدن اصطلاحات کاربردی اسپیکینگ آیلتس اینجا کلیک کنید.
پیدا کردن پارتنر برای اسپیکینگ آیلتس؟
شما باید فردی را پیدا کنید که به یادگیری زبان علاقه داشته باشد و اهداف علمیاش با شما مشابه باشد. این کار می تواند برای تقویت اسپیکینگ آیلتس از دیگر کارها سرگرم کننده تر باشد. شما میتوانید به یکدیگر کمک کنید تا چیزهای جدیدی یاد بگیرید. همچنین یکی از مزیتهای این روش، رایگان بودن آن است. میتوانید یادداشت ها و منابع خود را به اشتراک بگذارید و از همنشینی با دوستتان لذت ببرید. همچنین به شما کمک می کند تا از یک برنامه منظم پیروی کنید. اما نکته مهم این است که در هنگام انتخاب فرد مورد نظر، دقت لازم را به خرج دهید. مهمترین نکته برنامه ریزی برای ساعات صحبت کردن است.
IELTS recent questions
IELTS Speaking Tests with Answers
Describe a person
Describe a person you know who speaks a foreign language well.
You should say:
- who this person is
- what language(s) they know
- what he/she uses this language (or, these languages) for
- and explain why you think they (he/she) learned it well.
In this case, I would like to talk about myself. I consider myself a forever language learner. It all started when I first began taking Spanish classes when I was 19 years old. Actually, I had always thought of languages as a foreign language code that I would never be able to master. However, I proved myself wrong, now seeing that I have a knack for (have a special talent for) languages. I’m now proficient in Vietnamese, Mandarin, English, and Portuguese!
First and foremost, I decided to learn these languages out of interest. Second of all, they benefit my future, creating a window of opportunity (more opportunities). Speaking of Spanish in particular, I chose to pursue it because there is a large Latin American community in my city. Since I work in Marketing, it is extremely valuable to be able to reach a wider scope (range) of people. Other than just boosting my career, I simply enjoy the sound of the language! Lastly, I’ve always been attracted to Latino men so I wanted to able to communicate with them!
First of all, I learned this language well because I’ve always been dedicated to practicing. Furthermore, since I had the opportunity to go abroad (to another country) to Argentina and Costa Rica, I was able to put what I’ve studied to use. Immersing yourself in the country is extremely beneficial. From this, I picked up countless local slangs and improved my pronunciation and speaking skills. For the times I haven’t been abroad, I’ve always practiced at home and found language exchange groups to keep up my skill. All in all, it just takes practice!
Part 3
Is learning a new language important?
I would definitely say so. I feel that we better ourselves through each language we learn. For example, there is concrete evidence that language strengthens our cognitive (brain) abilities and problem-solving. Since I began my language studies, I feel that my memory has become much stronger and that I’m able to solve puzzles better. Furthermore, I’ve gained a greater understanding of my own native language! Second of all, language creates countless more opportunities for work and travel! Especially with English and Spanish, we can travel to a wide range of countries. By being able to expand your customer base, you can achieve more business success. Furthermore, through languages, you can discover a new culture, which makes you more open-minded, tolerant, empathetic, adaptable, among other things.
What benefits for one’s career does knowledge of foreign languages bring?
Endless! In this globalizing world, it’s becoming a necessity to know at least one foreign language. Needless to say, English is the language of the world, so this is the most important one to learn to be able to communicate with the entire world. Behind these, I would say that Spanish and Mandarin are extremely useful, as well. By being able to communicate with more of the world’s population, you create opportunities to expand your business. On the other hand, since languages are proven to increase your cognitive functions and puzzle-solving skills, one who speaks more than one language may have stronger problem-solving skills in their career. Furthermore, since many
language learners have lived or spent time abroad, they tend to be more adaptable and culturally understanding. All in all, it’s just a win-win (double benefit) to study other languages.
Who do you think learns a language faster, children or adults?
Definitely children! Since children’s brains are like sponges, absorbing new information, they undoubtedly pick up (learn) languages much faster. Furthermore, children’s memories are much sharper, so it is easier for them to remember new vocabulary. On the other hand, adults are more concrete in their native language and the world they’ve built from it, so they tend to be less open to accepting another language. Children, on the other hand, can play games or watch cartoons in another language from a young age and pick up the language without even realizing it. The only advantage that adults have is that their behaviour doesn’t stand in the way of their language learning, they are more motivated to learn, and that they are more likely to review and study at home. Furthermore, they pay for the classes, so they are much more invested (care about what they’re doing)!
Describe a person who has interesting ideas or opinions.
You should say:
- Who the person is
- How you know the person
- What interesting ideas the person has
- And explain why you think the ideas interesting
I’m going to talk about my friend, Elliott, who is a natural (good at) at languages and always has a lot of interesting ideas when it comes to language learning and teaching. He is a fellow teacher at my workplace, so I feel I know him well enough to speak about him. First of all, he is fluent in THREE foreign languages, English, Chinese and Japanese, in addition to his mother tongue. So you can imagine, as a language teacher, he really stands out from the others. I feel that he has a special empathy for language learners. Although he has a knack (a talent) for languages, he knows that others struggle with them, so he always tries to come up with (invent) new methods to help language learners improve faster and achieve better results. In addition to imparting (communicating) knowledge, he always creates a fun atmosphere. For example, at the start of each class, he would have all the students stand up and play some warm-up games instead of going straight into doing routine teaching stuff. Some of the games are even invented by himself and I must say they are all well thought out (well-planned). I learn a lot from observing his classes and look forward to working more with him in the future. I’m really interested in learning more about how to make language learning fun.
Part 3
What kinds of ideas are respected in your country?
That’s a tough question, but I’d definitely say any ideas that are groundbreaking (new) or revolutionary are very valued in my country. For example, we really respect people like Bill Gates or Steve Jobs, who changed the future through technology. Furthermore, people who are forward thinkers are respected in today’s society, such as those who search for solutions to violence or support the gay rights movement. Lastly, people really respect those who have innovative business ideas, which improve the country’s economy. Actually, that might be the most respected one. All in all, we like those who are unconventional (unordinary) thinkers.
When do children start to have their own ideas?
They say that 7 is the “age of reason” (when kids know right from wrong), so I believe this is when it all begins, even if in small ways. I think this is the age where children begin to recognize their individuality and separateness from their parents. However, children tend to follow the belief system of their parents up to their teen years, when they start the rebellious years. Thinking back, I remember I started to question my parent’s religion and political ideas when I was around 15, leading me to break off (separate) from them. So, all in all, by the time you are 18, most teens know who they really are.
Where do these ideas come from?
The family is definitely the first foundation of how we shape our ideas. Apart from this, I would say teachers have the second-largest influence. Following this, what kids hear in school, from their friends, what they watch on TV, and so on start to shape their way of thinking. Lastly, we start to break away (separate) from our family’s ideas and create our own ideas based on our life experiences.
Describe a singer that you like.
You should say:
- Who the person is
- How you know the person What songs the singer sings
- And explain why you like the person
I would like to talk about one of my favourite singers, Sam Smith. He is a British singer and songwriter who has become popular in my lifetime. He is famed for his mellifluous (containing flow) voice and quality of his song lyrics, which are often romantic and soulful. Thinking back, I remember the first song I heard from him was “Latch”, circa 2013. I remember my roommate was playing it in her car and I asked who the singer was and decided to look him up. Ever since that day, I just fell in love with him. He constantly has new hits out on the pop radio stations! His songs are just super catchy (something you remember). I would consider his music to be a mix of soul and pop. I think he started as a soul singer, but his music has transformed into being more of a pop genre. I really like his music because there is always a good beat to it, and the lyrics speak to me on a deep level, causing me to feel emotional and identify with the current dilemmas(problems) I’m facing. I like that some of his songs are more for dancing, while others are more deep and romantic. All in all, he is extremely talented and has a wide range. Sam Smith has a voice that really leaves a mark on you (impressive). I just love him!
Part 3
What kinds of music are popular in your country?
A wide range! Nowadays with youngsters, EDM music is all the rage (popular). Besides that, pop music, hip hop, alternative, and country are types of music that you hear most often on the radio. For example, my parents’ generations still stick with their southern rock style of music, such as ACDC. Of all the music from the past, 80’s American music seems to be played on the radio the most often.
Do singers make lots of money?
Of course! Singers are some of the richest people in the world. However, I imagine that their pay may be cut due to the increase in Youtube, Spotify, Pandora, and the like instead of buying the records at stores. However, our generation idolizes (worships) celebrities, so they make incomparable profits from their social media posts, concerts, and just pure talent.
What do you think makes a song become popular?
Definitely by how catchy it is, for one. Also, how well the artist markets themselves. If they constantly get their songs into the Top 40, their songs will be heard by the entire world. Lastly, of course, the artist needs to talented and have something that makes their songs stand out (be unique) from the others, such as by having a lovely voice, good beat, etc.
Describe a time when someone didn’t tell you the whole truth about something
You should say:
- when this happened
- what the situation was
- who you were with
- and why the person didn’t tell the whole truth
I’m going to tell you about a time I was really upset about someone lying to me. As I whole-heartedly value the truth, I feel very disappointed when I find out that someone has lied to me, especially when it’s someone close to me. So, I’ll share this situation with you.
I had just started dating a new guy and felt that I really liked him. I was 24 at the time, and he had said that he was 30. He appeared to be a bit older than that, so I tried to clarify his age twice, which he insisted was exactly 30. So, I decided to believe him. I was chatting with his best friend one day who was 32, and he
made a comment saying that he was younger than Manny, which I was confused about at first. Later that day, I called Manny out (confronted) about that over text, in which after several lies finally confessed that he was actually 33 years old. I knew it wasn’t the most terrible lie someone could tell, but I felt that my trust in him was tested. I thought, “if someone lies about simple personal details, what else do they lie about?”
He never stated his intentions about his lie, but I would imagine that maybe he felt he was too old for me. I guess that he was afraid to lose me if I knew he was 33, which wasn’t a problem for me. Furthermore, maybe he was struggling with accepting his age himself, so he wanted to keep believing that he was 30. I’m sure it was related to his insecurities one way or another. Anyway, whatever his reasons were, I decided to give him another chance although I wasn’t happy that he was dishonest.
Describe a person who helps others in his spare time.
You should say:
- who he or she is
- what he or she always does to help others
- why he or she always helps others
- and explain how you feel about this person
I would like to talk about my co-worker, John, who is always willing to go the extra mile (do extra) for others. As teachers, we constantly have a lot to do outside of the classroom. However, John utilizes his free time to be of service to others. For example, he sends his students extra materials every single day, always stays overtime to assist other co-workers and even stops by work outside of work hours to bring us snacks. Whenever an emergency situation arises (comes up), he is always the first one to lend a hand (help).
I believe he does this because he is a man of faith (religious). Besides this, I think that people improve their well-being when they dedicate themselves to others. To him, it is no sweat to be of service to others- it’s simply a joy.
I truly value John, as he is a rare breed. In this day and age, it’s uncommon to find someone who simply wants to do good without ulterior motives (other interests). I can say with full confidence that John isn’t looking for anything in return. All in all, John is just an excellent human being.
Describe a time you taught something new to a younger person
You should say:
- when it happened
- who and what you taught
- why you taught this person
- and how you felt about the teaching
Well, since I’m a teacher, I teach new things to younger people on a daily basis. However, I will highlight one experience, in particular, that was really rewarding (gave me a personal benefit) to me. This would be when I taught a 4-year-old student how to hold a pencil correctly and begin to write her first letters.
Thinking back, this was about 2 years ago now. I usually teach high-school-aged kids, but at this particular time, I decided to take on a summer school program with 4-5-year-old students. This girl who I taught to write was 4 years old, while the others were 5 years old, already having experience in kindergarten. I planned a lesson on the alphabet, assuming that all of them had previous knowledge of this. However, I had to sit beside the 4-year-old girl to further assist her as she didn’t have previous knowledge of this. We started off by holding the pencil together to form the letters, followed by me slowly easing (taking off easily) my hand off of it. I stayed beside her until she was able to write out her first letters. I’ll never forget the excited look on her face when she finally got the hang of it! As the class progressed, she was easily able to keep up (stay at the same speed as) with the 5 years old.
This was an extremely rewarding experience for me; I was just so excited. Since I had never experienced teaching a child a basic skill, it was really special to me. It made me start to think about raising my own family one day, especially standing beside my children at their milestones (big life events). I had never thought about how exciting it must be to be a parent! All in all, it was an emotional moment for me.
Describe a time you heard someone you didn’t know talking on the phone in a public place.
You should say:
- when and where it was what the call was about
- what you were doing at that time
- and explain how you felt about it
Well, I’m almost never into eavesdropping (secretly listening) to other people’s personal conversations, but it’s bound to happen nowadays where people never disconnect from their phones. In particular, I would like to share a situation with you when I overheard a lucky conversation. Well, here it goes: Last month, I was travelling from Orlando to Miami by train. The person who sat next to me had the appearance of a sharp (elegant) businessman. After 10 minutes, his phone suddenly rang. As soon as he picked it up, he started
speaking loudly which left me no choice but to me shift my attention to his conversation, even though I was reading a book. He introduced himself as an employment agency agent, and I imagined on the other side there was maybe a youngster who wanted the job. As I had just finished college and was looking for a job, I couldn’t take my ear away from his conversation, even knowing how rude it may come across (seem).
He was talking about online jobs such as a content writer, editor, data entry and so on. Along with this he also told the person the name of one or two websites. with the help of these websites, individuals get a job that is relevant for them. Unfortunately, I did not catch (hear) the name of the websites he mentioned.
So, I decided to be brave. As soon as he hung up, I introduced myself and apologized for eavesdropping. I asked if he could repeat the website for the online jobs. Luckily, he was a very kind person. He accepted my apology and told me the name of the website. In addition to it, he also gave me his business card and told me to give him a call if I had any questions or concerns. So that was the time when I heard someone over the phone. I felt so happy to come across an opportunity like this- sometimes it pays off (has benefit) to be nosey (interested in the lives of others)!
PART3
Why do you think some people talk aloud on public transport?
It is quite understandable as to why some have to resort to loud talking in places which they are supposed to speak softly or remain in silence. Take me as an example, while sitting on the bus, especially during peak time, when it is packed in like sardines and there is not even room to swing a cat, it is normal that people would have a chit chat with their friends sitting next to them, or do some work like answering phone calls from their boss or partners. It’s nothing but a mess, so people have to raise their voice so that their counterparts can get the hang of what they are talking about.
Should people be banned from talking aloud in public places?
Currently, there’s no rule which prohibits people from talking out loud in public places. But I guess there shouldn’t be one, as it seems out of the question to carry out such a law. As I have mentioned, there are not too many times when people make a racket, only when it’s jam-packed and there is a need to talk out loud to attract others’ attention. Besides, every person has a different character, which means some are born talkative, while others would love to remain silent, so I reckon education should take priority rather than establishing rules and regulations.
Is it bad to talk on the phone in public places?
It is not totally gross o talk on the phone in public places as the need to reach others via phone is a basic one. Having said that, t’s well-advised to keep the conversations concise and to the point instead of going round-about or sharing private information publicly like that. Also, it’s not socially unacceptable if people keep their voice down a bit, speaking in a way that both the caller and the recipient can understand each other.
Describe a friend or a person who encouraged you to achieve a goal.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What this person encourage you to do What this person has help
- And explain why this encouragement help you to achieve the goal
I’m going to talk about a friend and ex-coworker of mine named Billy. He has been a friend of mine for years now, and is always a shoulder to lean on (someone you can rely on). He has always been there for me through thick and thin (good and bad times), and I don’t know where I would be today without him. Let me tell you more.
I’ve always dreamt of being an entrepreneur but was unsure of myself before. I first met Billy at the International School I used to work for before. We were both teachers and hating our lives working under someone. So, one day we got together and started sharing ideas about starting our own language school. I’m good with people and thinking of creative ideas, while Billy is more apt to deal with numbers and the business side of things. He encouraged me to fulfill my dreams and put my creative ideas to test, while I encouraged him to put his number and business skills to use. He would tell me that my ideas could change the world, which made me feel on top of the world. I needed someone to believe in me to this degree (to this extent), as I didn’t feel that my ideas were good enough to start my own business before. Through mutual encouragement, we ended up where we are today.
We have now owned our own school for 3 years and counting! We have had success because we always build each other up and focus on our strengths rather than our weaknesses. By helping one another, we both felt enough confidence to achieve our dreams. We certainly make a great team!
Describe something a child did that made you laugh.
You should say:
- who the child was
- how old he or she was
- what he or she did
- and explain why it made you laugh.
Often, children say and do the craziest things, as they lack the filter that adults have! It leads to lots of laughter. So, let me tell you about this child, Peter, who really made me laugh.
He the child of one of my co-workers. It was Peter’s 3rd birthday party last week and I attended his birthday party. As I know Peter is a very active, rambunctious (naughty) child, I thought a water gun would be a suitable gift for him. So, I presented it to him and he was ecstatic (excited)!
Peter sees many television shows and knows that guns are used to shoot. So, he immediately started playing with the gun. He refilled the gun with water and pointed it to the guests and shot them with water! He wanted to have fun and did so. But finally, when the water ran out (emptied) and his parents did not allow him to refill with water, he shot them.
When he shot his dad, the dad fell on the ground. When he shot his mother, she also fell in the ground as if she died. He was surprised. He could not decide what to do. So, he shot himself and fell beside his mother until they stopped pretending to be dead.
The entire event was hilarious (really funny), and all of the guests were roaring in laughter. In fact, the kid was highly clever and his gestures made me laugh. He was confused what to do when he shot his parents. So, finding no other options left, he killed himself. In fact, it proves his guilt but the representation of the situation was really interesting that everyone could not stop laughing with this scenario. Despite the issue being a serious one, it was a kind of comical event. So, I laughed with my whole heart. In fact, it was the rapid decision making skill of the child and the implementation of the decision without any hesitation was the key element of the genuine laughter.
Describe a person you wanted to be similar to when you were growing up
You should say:
- who this person was
- when you first met the person
- what the person did
- and you would like to become this person
Today I’ll tell you about how I used to want to be like my sister when I was younger. She was always the popular, scholarly type, while I was sort of the unfocused, social outcast (unpopular) type. I always struggled with my weight when I was younger even though I ate pretty healthily, whereas my sister always had a perfect, thin physique (fitness) even while eating junk food constantly. I’ll explain it more in-depth.
My sister is 2 years older than me, and we grew up together. She was always at the top of her class, even though she studied very little. I remember her saying that she would forget to study, but still get nearly 100% on her exams,
even through her college years. Moreover, she had a natural athletic ability with very little effort. She could take up a new sport and be good at it at the drop of a hat! I envied her swimming and basketball skills, especially. Apart from this, she was the thin, pretty blonde girl that everyone wanted to be friends with, although she didn’t have to put effort into being nice to people. Another thing I looked up to her for was that it was easy for her to speak her mind. When I was younger especially, I always found it difficult to speak up even when I was being treated unfairly.
Reflecting back, I think what I most wished to inherit from her was her ability to do everything at ease. It seems like I always had to put more effort into school to get good grades, be fit, have friends, etc, so I wished those things could come easier. I especially wished I had her athletic ability, as I would like to do more physical activity. Furthermore, I wish I didn’t have to spend countless hours studying and even meeting with a tutor to get good grades. However, as I’ve gotten older, I realize that we cannot compare ourselves to other people because we all have different strengths and weaknesses. Still, I admire her for her abilities as well as her outspokenness.
Describe a time you taught an older person something new
You should say:
- Who you taught What you taught
- Why you taught this person
- And explain how you felt about it
Every day we meet such persons who teach us a lot of things, and sometimes we even get the pleasure of teaching them something ourselves. We may assume that the old hold all the wisdom, but actually we young people Such a situation that recently occurred in my life when I was sitting at home minding my own business (doing nothing) when suddenly someone knocked on the door of our house. When I opened it I found my neighbour Mr Peters, who has been working as a government employee was standing near the doorsteps of our home. He told me that he needed urgent help I readily (immediately) asked what the matter was.
He told me that he wanted to send an important excel file to an officer of his office department. But, because he wasn’t proficient in Excel, he couldn’t fill in the data as required by the officer. However, because he knew that I have been studying in a college where I have to use a Ms office to complete my assignments. He came straight (directly) to me.
I asked him to come in and sit at ease (relaxed). I took my laptop and opened a new excel sheet and started typing the information and applying the formula. It took about one and a quarter hours to complete the file. Not only did I fill out (complete) the data, but also taught Mr Peters about the easiest tricks to use this software.
Learning this new skill, Mr Peters became very happy and relaxed. Because of this, I felt the same way. I felt excited to be able to share my skills with him to make his life easier. He is a very kind person who would bend over backwards (help) for others, so I like to treat him with such respect. All in all, I felt I did a good deed (action) by being of service to him.
Part 3
Is it easy for old people to use new technology?
For the most part, no. For young people, technology is something that we grew up with. However, for the elderly, it is a whole new challenge for them. Actually, it must be like learning a whole new language for them. As I work with many elderly people, I often see their frustration about this topic. When I put myself in their shoes (imagine from their perspective), I would imagine that I feel the same.
Why do some old people refuse to use new technology?
In many cases, the elderly can become quite stubborn (not wanting to change). For example, they have lots of wisdom and experience, so it’s hard for them to admit that they have difficulty with something that comes so easily to the younger generation. Furthermore, some simply don’t trust in technology and think that life was better than the old school (traditional) way.
Describe a female leader you would like to meet
You should say:
- Who she is
- What she does
- What she is like
- And explain why you would like to meet her
As leadership only used to be a male domain (area), I am excited to see women in positions of power nowadays. Although my country hasn’t yet had a female president, I would like to talk about our former first lady (wife of the president), Michelle Obama. Along with this, she is also the first African- American first lady, which is something I am really thrilled to see, as well. She has always been a woman I look up to (honour)!
In the USA, being the first lady is a very important position. Michelle’s duties included being the hostess of the first lady, as well as organizing and attending official ceremonies and functions of state either along with or in place of, the president. Along with this, she was formerly a lawyer, as well as a university administrator and writer. With all this said, she is a very bright and respectable woman. As an educator myself, I have a profound (deep) respect for those in the education field.
Although I don’t know her, she seemed very bubbly (social) and vivacious (energetic). Along with this, she and her family are known to be very elegant and well-spoken (speaks well with others). Because of all of this that I’ve mentioned, it would be a great honour to meet her. I would love to have a coffee and ask for life advice with her. Of course, I would have to take a picture with her for social media!
Part 3:
What is gender inequality in the workplace?
It means that people aren’t treated equally based on gender. Traditionally, the man earns more money than a woman and aren’t able to move up in position, also known as the glass ceiling. In my country, the woman earns about .80 cents to the man’s dollar for doing the exact same workload. Apart from just the pay, women are often perceived as unable to control their emotions, which prevents them from being in a leadership position. I’m so happy to see this changing!
What are the causes of gender inequality in the workplace?
Long-held beliefs, society, misconceptions, our upbringing, religion, among other things. It’s something that has been ingrained (put) in our minds for a long time. As we are now in a time when women are getting into positions of power, we can see that it has nothing to do with ability. I hope that people continue to develop their way of thinking about this matter. I’m a firm believer that women are just as capable as a man, whether it’s an office job or physical labour.
Do women have more responsibility for taking care of children?
Nowadays, it really depends. Perhaps it used to be that way since women tend to have a more maternal and nurturing (caring) instinct, but I see this starting to change. For example, I know of plenty stay at home dads and moms who go to work all day. However, I still see that traditionally the woman stays home with the children more than a man.
Describe a teenager you know
You should say:
- Who she/he is
- What she/he looks like
- How you got to know him or her Why do you like him/her
- And explain how you feel about him or her
I’m going to tell you about a family friend of ours named Edward. He is 16 years old and bright (clever; intelligent) as can be. We have known him ever since he was 6 years old, and I’ve enjoyed watching him transform into the young man he is today. Nowadays, he’s even taller than me! I would say he’s almost 6 feet tall. He has a dark complexion and nearly black hair, now cut into one of the trendy styles with one side of it shaved. He’s blossoming into (changing into; like a flower) a handsome fellow (another word for boy or man).
Well, although there was a 10 year age gap in between his mother and my mother, they immediately hit it off (liked each other immediately) when they starting work at a real estate agency together 10 years ago. Their friendship continued to grow within the office until they decided to open their own brokerage (real estate company) about 4 years later. So, our families have grown close over the years. We often have meals together, visit each other during the holidays, and even vacation together some years.
I really care for Edward because he has always been an honest, polite kid and a joy to be around. He isn’t like the typical rebellious teenager who feels they are too cool for everything and everyone around them. He always greets me with a hug and shows me a lot of respect. For this reason, I have really taken a liking to him. On another note, he is extremely hard-working and intelligent. We often get into deep conversations about the underlying(hidden) meanings of popular music hits or the history of the world- we both share a love of history. Although I’m 10 years older, I feel that Edward and I can still be friends. I cherish (deeply appreciate) him and always wish him the best. All in all, he is like a little brother to me.
Describe a time you gave advice to others.
You should say:
- who you gave the advice to
- what advice you gave
- why this person needed your advice
- and explain how useful the advice was
I tend to have close relationships with my friends and am always eager (ready) to help them out. I have this friend in particular who I’ve grown up with (known since childhood); we’re pretty close. I will tell you about some serious career advice I gave him recently. Well, here’s some background:
Last year he was working at an international company and doing quite well, so he was offered a big promotion to become a manager. However, he had also been looking for opportunities to study abroad and had recently received an offer from a prestigious university around the same time he got the job offer.
It was a scholarship that would cover all expenses, including tuition and accommodation, an enviable package. So, he was really in a pickle (in a difficult situation) over what to do. It was tough for him to decide whether to pursue his career or his education. So, we met up to discuss this.
When he asked for my advice, I told him that if he wanted to be successful in his field, he needed to possess excellent qualifications. If he didn’t, there would be a limit to how far he could reach. Although this promotion may look good now, there may be a small window (limits) for growth. After this advice, he decided to take my advice and is now studying at Yale. All in all, he saw that pursuing his education would pay off (benefit) more in the future.
Describe a piece of advice you received on your subjects or work
You should say:
- What it was
- Who you received it from
- What you did after receiving it
- And how you felt about it
Well, getting feedback about our performance is simply part of life, whether it be positive or negative. I always thought I was doing all the right things at my job, but the assessment day came and turned out (result) that I wasn’t performing up to par (up to standards). I noticed that since my manager called me to his office and told me to close the door. “I hope this is not that serious” I said, and then he responded “we need to talk”. At that very moment, I realized I was doing something wrong at work. My manager started to talk to me about my performance and it was all good but the delivery time of the financial charts was not ideal. He gave me a piece of great advice on how I should manage all the workload I had in order to be able to deliver the financial reports on time.
As soon as I left his office, I went to my desk and started to put into practice all the valuable information he gave me. After a month of doing what he recommended to me, I could clearly see the results about, I was improving at my job. I felt very relieved to be able to deliver all the financial reports on the time request or even faster than they asked me to. Thanks to his advice I was able to improve. All in all, negative feedback leads us to improvement!
Part 3
Is it better to get advice from a friend or from a family member?
I have to say that all of it depends on the experience each person has. This means if my friend has more knowledge about finance than my family, of course, I will ask my friend about it. On the other hand, sometimes I avoid asking family for advice because they can be harsh and judgmental, while friends tend to be more understanding. So, what I’m saying is it depends on the relationships that each person has with family/friends.
What would you say are the characteristics of a good adviser?
A good adviser must be a neutral person and being able to look at the problem and solve it in the best possible way without hesitation. Furthermore, they shouldn’t let their own bias (preference) creep into (come into) an objective situation. So, with this said, sometimes family and friends aren’t the best people to ask for advice
Should people make their own work and career decisions, or is it a good idea to ask for advice about this?
It is always a good idea to ask for advice but let that be just a piece of advice because we are the only ones who can decide about our own future. So with this said, we can’t rely too heavily on the voice of others. We shouldn’t let their words dictate (control) our lives, as we are the only people who have truly lived in our own shoes (in our own situation or position).
Describe a time that you visited a friend
You should say:
- Who you visited
- What you did
- Why you visited him or her
- And explain how you felt about it
I’m going to tell you about a special trip I embarked (went) on to see a friend of mine. In October of last year, I went to visit my best friends Michael, who moved to Colorado Springs just a few months before a visit. Visiting Michael was the best excuse to visit a city I always wanted to visit but also visit a dear friend. Let me tell you about this once in a lifetime experience.
Colorado Springs is a well-known city for its hot springs, those are wonderful natural hot water springs, ideal for a relaxing afternoon. Besides these, there are snow-capped mountains lining the skyline, and endless forests to discover. We spent the weekend snow-shoeing (hiking with special snowshoes) and relaxing at night with a nice hot spring bath. This entire adventure started as soon as I set foot out of the airport there!
I felt over the moon (extremely happy) being with him and remembering all the adventures we had when we were kids, plus the relaxing moments at the springs, there’s nothing else you can ask for in your life. This was really just the right way to make up for a lost time (catch up) with him. All in all, it was a subliminal experience.
Part 3
Do you think that it is becoming more difficult to make friends?
Lately, it is becoming more difficult to make friends and this is caused by social media, even though technology is supposed to connect us in an easier way, makes is harder to connect face to face. With this said, I feel we are becoming less social, so it’s more challenging to strike up (start) a conversation with a stranger. Although we can stay in better touch with our old friends due to social media, all in all, it has made making lasting friendships harder.
What do you think of making friends on the internet?
Making friends online could both, good and bad. It all depends on the luck you have and what web pages or apps you use to make friends. For example, when I moved to a new city, I used MeetUp, which led me to find free yoga classes with some of the best people I could ever dream of. So, it can be a hit or miss (a success or a failure).
How do people in your country make friends these days?
People in my country prefer the old fashioned way to make friends, they prefer to gather together at public places and start talking to each other, this helps to break the ice (feel comfortable) easier. Since technology isn’t as widespread in my hometown as in the big cities, we still place value on face-to-face communication. Moreover, since my hometown is one of the safest in the country, it also makes it easier to strike up conversations with strangers since we can most likely trust them.
Why is it hard to maintain friendships for some people?
Nowadays is harder to maintain friendships because people have a lot of acquaintances (people you are friendly with), but not really real friends. They are friends of the moment or opportunity but not friends for life. Furthermore, people change as they get older, so it’s hard for the friendship to stay the same. Lastly, since the work culture is intense in my country, people simply don’t have much time to keep in touch (stay in contact).
سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس با جواب پارت دوم
Describe someone you would like to study or work with
You should say:
- who this person is
- how long you have known this person
- what you have done together
- and why you would like to study or work with this person
I’m going to tell you about my friend Veronica. She is the type of friend that you know always has good intentions (kind, means well) and would never do anything to hurt you. Furthermore, she is extremely loyal, understanding, and down to earth (not thinking she is better than others). Even though she is a highly educated and intelligent person, she would never use these qualities to be condescending to another person.
We first met back in 2016 in a month-long, intensive Spanish class in Cusco, Peru. The nature of our class there was very open, causing us to share private details about our lives and even embarrassing stories, so this made it easier to get closer as a class. We spent 7 hours a day together in that class, along with about 10 others, so I would say we got to know each other very well. When we broke into (divided) groups, we would often work together which always went well. I felt that she was always a helpful classmate, never one to make you feel dumb for not knowing an answer. After the class, we remained close friends throughout our entire year in Cusco. During that entire time, she never did anything that rubbed me the wrong way (to make me angry).
With all this said, this is why I would enjoy studying or working with Veronica. I feel that she would always remain sincere, regardless of any cutthroat (bad intentions) workplace environment or competitive or prestigious (of high class) academia. Furthermore, I feel that she would always be there to help me out, and I would never worry that she would be conniving. Lastly, I see that she is a hard-working, dedicated person, so that would make her an even better candidate. Since we already have some experience as classmates and even more as friends, this is why I chose to talk about her.
IELTS recent questions
Describe a place
Describe a time you visited a place with friends.
You should say:
- where you went; what you did there;
- who you were with;
- and explain why it was a memorable experience.
Well, I spend my spare (extra) time with my friends quite often. I’d especially like to talk about a time my friends and traveled to Thailand after graduating medical school. After all those years of blood, sweat, and tears (an expression of hard work), we really deserved this trip.
I vividly (a lot of details) remember this moment because as soon as we got out of our final exams, we were all aboard on the way to Bangkok. 6 of us had originally agreed upon going, but finally 2 bailed at the last minute. When I think about it, it was an experience to bond (connect deeply) more with just this small group.
The main reason for visiting there was to get away from the stress gained from studying very hard. Speaking of what we did there, it was pure relaxation and discovery. We saw everything from the majestic pagodas and kingdoms in Bangkok to the pristine (elegant), white-sanded beaches in the Phi Phi Islands. Even more than just the incredible landscapes, the kind-hearted, welcoming people were what really left their mark (left an impression) on us.
To sum up, we truly had a blast on this trip. It was really what we needed at the time! I’ll never forget the flavors of pad thai and bubble tea! It was 100% a blast (a lot of fun).
Describe a park or garden you visited and liked
You should say:
- where it was; what it looked like;
- what you did there;
- and explain why you liked it there.
As a citizen in a metropolitan city, I am usually partial to choosing fresh outing spaces for relaxation after being up to my neck (very busy) at work. Although there are many beautiful places in London, I would like to mention one in particular- Hyde Park. It’s a must-see for tourists.
In the center of the hustle and bustle of London, Hyde Park is a beautiful oasis of trees, open space, and flowers. It’s a place where people go to have picnics, take a stroll, catch a breath of fresh air, etc.
Well, my cousin and I went there for a jog on Sunday morning. Even though we are not morning people (people who like the morning), we decided to push through to do this, and we are so glad! We jogged (run slowly) around the entire park which is approximately 5 kilometers, then we laid out some blankets and rested there among the greenery. It was the perfect way to recharge for the week.
I really enjoyed this because it was an escape from city life. The work culture in London is demanding, so it’s nice to catch a break from time to time. Since I’m a salaried worker, I tend to spend over 40 hours working per week. I crave moments in nature after being confined to my desk all week. Furthermore, when I exercise, I find that I disconnect from the stress in my life and reduce it. All in all, it was a much-needed day to escape our obligations!
Describe a historical building you have visited.
You should say:
- where it was what it looked like
- what you learned there
- and explain why you visited this historical building
I’m going to talk about the majestic Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca city tucked into (inside) the Andes Mountain range. More than 7,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu is the most visited tourist destination in Peru. A symbol of the Incan Empire and built around 1450AD, Machu Picchu was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007! It was such a humbling experience!
I had always seen pictures of Machu Picchu and studied about its significance in school, but experiencing it in person made me realize that the pictures do it absolutely no justice (looks better in person). Upon arrival, you start to see intricate stone paths, walls, and buildings surrounded by mountain ranges, which frame the ancient city. There are irrigation systems and farming terraces extending down the mountains. Below it, there is a fast-flowing river. You can tell they built this city intelligently! Furthermore, there are llamas throughout the structure, as well as tourists posing for selfies in every direction. The contrast between the bright green mountains with the stone city and agricultural terraces is truly breathtaking. On sunny days, you can see snow-capped mountain ranges even further in the distance!
In this incredible place, I did a tour to learn about the history of the Incas and the detailed work and planning that went into building this place. For example, I learned that they suppose Machu Picchu was built to house the aristocratic class and that it was abandoned after the Spanish conquest. Furthermore, I learned that the Incas worshiped the sun, and that they had technology way ahead of their time (advanced), which reflects in their stonework, irrigation system, farming system, etc.
As I had always been fascinated by the Incas, I decided to take this trip with my family to see it in person. I’m so glad I did! What a magnificent place it was.
Part 3
Do people in your country often visit historical buildings?
To be honest, not really. As the US is a very new country, there aren’t many historical places to visit. Furthermore, since people tend to enjoy visiting the coast or modern places more, historical places are losing their value. Moreover, people usually only have a week of paid vacation per year, so they tend to visit family or take a family beach, camping, or mountain trip instead. Unfortunately, not too many people have the means, desire, nor time to visit historical monuments.
Do children like to go to that kind of place?
I definitely think a child would be impressed by the sight of Machu Picchu, but I don’t like it would be the number one spot to take them. For example, there are steep drop-offs (steep hills) where a child could easily fall to their death. Secondly, it may be tiring for children to walk up the steep steps, and they could get bored during the several-hour tour. On the other hand, I think children would get a kick out of (be entertained by) the llamas walking around the complex! Do you think people who damage historical relics should be put in prison? Yes, in most cases! It is just insane that someone would do such a thing. I think this is such a heinous (horrible) crime for someone to destroy a piece of history. A person who would do such a terrible thing clearly doesn’t understand the value of historical relics. However, before putting the person in jail, authorities should determine the reason for it. Perhaps the person would do such a thing as a way to seek vengeance (revenge) for a historical event that deeply scarred them. Still, it is unacceptable for them to destroy it, but maybe the government should consider what historical landmarks mean to some.
Describe an unusual experience of traveling
You should say:
- Where you went
- When you went there
- Who you were with
- What you did there
- And explain why it is unusual
Well, traveling is something that thrills me a lot and I’m always waiting for my next trip. So, I would like to talk about the vacation I had last year, which I consider to be quite out of the ordinary (unusual).
During last summer holidays, my friend and I dreamt of going to a faraway land, but we lacked the funds (didn’t have the money) for it. Fortunately, on the very next day, I was looking on social media and stumbled upon one NGO that needed some people to volunteer at a remote, mountainous area. Moreover, the best thing about this opportunity was that it included all expensive. For example, traveling, food, accommodation, and so on.
So, I immediately called my friend then we went to the NGO, in which they assigned us to work teaching children. We went to Malana, Himachal Pradesh where the NGO was located. There we volunteered as well as did some sightseeing around the place, like visiting historical pagodas nature, lakes, and so on.
Besides that, we experienced local culture and the taste of local food as well. Not to mention, it was nice to spend the summer in a cool, crisp climate. Furthermore, we felt very good because we contributed something to society. Usually, people travel simply for pleasure, so this is why I consider it unusual.
PART 3
What are the differences between traveling to other countries and living there?
Well, obviously there are a number of clear differences between going on a tour abroad and actually living there. Perhaps the most significant difference is that traveling only paints a rosy picture of life in our destination country like we can enjoy the delicacies, experience ignored. In addition, with the company of tour guide, there is no need to learn the language, search for directions since everything is properly prepared. Conversely, an immigrant is supposed to experience culture shock, food adaptability, and other issues if they start living there
Do you think we need to respect the region and culture when we go to other countries?
Yes, I’d suppose. In the cases, immigrants or tourists to another country tend to suffer from culture shock, food adaptability and racial discrimination, and stuff like that. So, it’s quite advisable that they make real efforts to pay decent respect to the host country’s culture when people come to a new land. For example, if you know that beef is banned in Muslim countries and try to avoid including it in your daily diet, you can save yourself from religious prejudice and lead a life like the natives.
What are the advantages of traveling?
Clearly, there are a number of merits brought by traveling. But I would probably say that the thing that really stands out that we can broaden our horizons of the world. To be more specific, when coming to a new region or a country, we have the chance to sample, the local life, enjoy them and learn much interesting stuff. Besides, a second positive point could be that we can let our hair down after stressful periods of hard work or study. A short visit somewhere can help us recharge our batteries and work more effectively afterward.
What are the advantages of nationwide travel?
If I were to choose between the two, I would opt for domestic trips simply because I am not a wealthy person at all. Therefore, traveling to different parts of my country can be economical at first. Besides, there are no language barriers compared to when you make a tour to a far-away land where you can’t use your mother tongue. In a nutshell, such a nationwide journey can satisfy my sense of adventure.
What advice would you give to the foreigners traveling to your country?
To be honest with you, for a person who wants to make a trip to my country, there are a lot of necessary preparations. First of all, you must get prepared to deal with problems in daily life, which can be hard to be found in developed countries. For example, you are faced with traffic jams, particularly during peak hours; or run the risk of being stolen in public places like buses. Besides, polluted air and hot weather are other stumbling block that foreigners need to overcome. You have to breathe dirty air and stand the scorching heat of the summers or heat all year round if you live in HCM city
Describe a journey that you went on by car
You should say:
- When it was
- Where you went
- Who you were with
- And you felt about the journey
It was the day before the long weekend of Labor Day and I had nothing to do, no plans, nothing at all. So, I decided to give my friends a shout (call my friends). Luckily, they were also free so we decided to spend this holiday together to celebrate all the hard work we do. This is how we started the road trip and I didn’t know it was going to be an outstanding experience. Let me tell you about it!
We decided to go to the Grand Canyon, a place with beautiful landscapes and stunning hikes during the sunset. As soon as we arrived, the first task we completed was to set up the tents and a small fire near us because it was a pitch-black (very dark) night. We were lucky enough to see a shooting star going above our heads.
The next morning, we woke up really early to start one of the most famous hikes in the area. I would have to say that it was worth every second of it.
As we packed everything back to the cars to go back to the city, we saw a giant raven ( large bird), trying to eat some leftovers from other camping grounds. That was just the perfect way to end the trip- in primitive (old) nature, yet having fun at the same time.
That weekend was something else (something really special). I felt it was a bonding experience to get to know my friends more, as well as a nice time to unwind (relax) from our hectic (busy) lives in the city. In conclusion, it was one heck of a weekend (an awesome weekend)!
Part 3
Is driving skill important?
Indeed, it is not just important, it’s a necessity here in the US. Unlike Europe, cities were built for cars, not people, here. Especially when you want to do a road trip for holidays or a small getaway (vacation). For example, since I bought a car, I could take advantage of a short weekend by taking a road trip for Labor Day and to Chattanooga River. What a wonderful day to be alive, thanks to cars.
Do you think cars are a daily necessity?
Of course, I do, as they are necessary here in the US. They are a crucial (important) part of the daily commuting I do from home to work and vice versa. Moreover, they help me a lot to be on time for the daily meetings I have, as I tend to be late often.
What will cars look like in the future?
I will say cars are going to be very different in the near future, all of this due to new technologies in aerodynamics and electrical batteries. Just imagine a car without an engine and solely (only) power by solar energy or electricity. That will definitely change the shape, therefore, the entire appearance of a car. Even just from the ’90s and 2000s to now, you can see a drastic (sharp) change in cars- I can’t imagine what the future holds!
What are the advantages of owning a car?
One of the main advantages I can think of is how independent you can be to move anywhere around your city. Sometimes you are hungry and you just want that delicious pizza you saw in the commercial, so you just drive your way through the pizza restaurant and enjoy every single slice of it without any planning. Furthermore, I can use my car to go on road trips and make as many potty breaks (bathroom stops) as I want along the way, which is impossible in public transportation.
What are the disadvantages of owning a car?
As there are so many advantages, there are just a few disadvantages. One of them is the maintenance you have to do every couple thousand miles. I wish I never had to stop at those repair shops and wait for hours until the car is ready but I know that safety is the main priority and, in those places, they put them right on spot to keep functioning as they are supposed to. So all in all, it really isn’t a huge inconvenience.
Describe a city you went to with your family
You should say:
- When it happened
- Where you went to
- How it was
- And explain why you liked it
My family and I always had a dream vacation of going to New York City, better known as the Big Apple. The concrete jungle (a nickname for New York) where dreams come true. I would have to say that those were some of the best days of my life. It was around Christmas time, so we really wanted to see the decked-out (decorated) New York that we had always seen on TV. Let me tell you how it came about
So, by the end of 2018, we caught a flight from Portland to New York. I have to say that New Yorkers truly have the Christmas spirit. All of the city looked fairytale from Disney movies. While we were wandering around (walking around) the city, we saw a huge Christmas Three full of beautiful lights and sparkling stars on top. It really took us back to the Home Alone movies!
Seeing all of the Christmas decorations was the most outstanding part of the trip. Actually, it made me feel emotional to be standing there experiencing this with my family. It touched all of our hearts a lot. In conclusion, this trip took my breath away.
Part 3
Do you think cities worth visiting are also suitable to live in?
Yes, I do. They are worth visiting for a reason. Whether they have iconic (famous) locations or fantastic restaurants, I would say that a city is not only worth visiting, but is also worth living in. I’m a fan of (I like) the countryside too, but I always like to check out the capital city of a country too.
Do people in your country like to travel?
People in my country do love to travel a lot, mainly to Europe because you can breathe culture (take in) and history in every single country you visit, and countries are so small over there, that you can go through one of them in just 4 hours of driving, that’s fantastic!
How has traveling changed, compared to several decades ago?
Well, several decades ago, traveling was more of a luxury option for people with a lot of money. Nowadays, it has changed and become more accessible to the middle class. You can easily get a roundtrip ticket to Paris for less than 200 dollars, before, that was bananas (crazy)!
When do people travel (as tourists), who do they usually go with?
When people travel, they usually go with friends or family. Those ways are the most common, but for me, the best way to travel is by yourself. It’s becoming more common for people to travel alone, but for me especially because I love the feeling of being able to do whatever I please at any given moment.
Do you think the internet has had an effect on people’s traveling behavior today?
It has deeply affected the way people travel, particularly in the way people buy plane tickets and lay out their days at their destination. Thanks to the internet, now you can buy plane tickets immediately, all you need to have is a credit or debit card. People also pick up their destination and determine what to do each day, based on the information they find online.
If you were going on a trip, what essential modern technology would you take with you, and why?
One of the essentials on my trips is my phone. I can’t survive without it, it brings me so much information about the destination, like how to get there and what to see. To be honest, I’d be completely lost without google maps! I need all of that information right in the palm of my hand (accessible) to be able to proceed with my trip.
Describe a place you remember well that is full of colors.
You should say:
- What it is
- Where it is
- How it looks like
- And explain why you remember it well
I have a colorful ice-cream place that I really like, actually, I would say it is my favorite place for ice cream. Let me tell you about it
It is located right in the corner of Bernard Road, it has a really stylized neon light that glows glamour (the special exciting and attractive quality of a place) every time you look at it, that neon light is also a usual place for people to take a picture with it. When you go inside the ice cream store, you will find a lot of uncommon flavors like olive oil or lavender. You would think they’re not tasty at all, but they actually are so rich in flavor.
Hanging on the ceiling, they have a lot of colorful umbrellas, all arranged by colors, so it looks like you’re staring into a rainbow which is really stimulating. This is my favorite thing to look at while I’m getting some ice cream. I think I’ll always keep it in my mind (remember something) because of the colorful store that left a deep impression on you and the taste of the unusual flavors that still linger (remain for a long time) in my mouth.
Part 3
What kind of places do people want to go to when they want to be alone?
When people want to be alone, they usually go to their room but that’s not the case for me. I used to do a small hike to have a panoramic view of the city, just 20 minutes away from home, to be alone and connect with myself again. That’s what recharges me most when I crave some time alone.
Do you think that landmarks will make a city more famous, why?
Yes, I do. Landmarks for sure will make a city more famous because they will bring more attention to their surroundings and make the city more popular and the desired destination for tourists. They also generate more advertising, in postcards for example, so then people are more likely to visit the place.
What’s the difference between living in the city and the countryside?
It’s like two sides of a coin (two different things). One is very different from the other. In the city, you have a lot of amenities and comfort but you’re missing the peacefulness and quietness of the countryside, where you will barely see people and maybe not have all the amenities you are used to. So, there really isn’t much in common at all.
Describe a place where you read and write (not your home).
You should say:
- Where it is
- How often you go there
- Who you go there with
- And explain how you feel about it
Well, there is a cabin I like to go to every time I feel like writing or reading. It is located on the Northside of West Vancouver. A wonderful place, usually covered by snow throughout the whole year. That sensation of escape and freedom that this cabin gives me, makes me want to write and read. Just being there sitting by the chimney with a cup of chocolate, is one of the most relaxing sensations you ever imagine. I even like to draw a hot bubble bath and read in the tub there, which is truly sublime (unworldly).
I frequent this place at least once a month and stay there for at least 2 days. We usually like to go in the fall before it’s too iced over, but really any time of year is delightful. I tend to go with my wife most of the time but I also enjoy it going by myself. I imagine we will bring our kids there once we have them, too. I can imagine them playing there by the lake and building lego houses inside.
The power of creating by writing or inspiring by reading makes me feel like I belong to that little cabin. It tweaks (changes) a certain creative flow in me. It’s a place I will pass down from generation to generation. In conclusion, I just love that place.
Part 3
Is there a completely quiet place?
Yes, there are a lot of quiet places, like lakes or mountains, where you can and feel like you are all alone and in the middle of nowhere. Most of these places are located far into remote forests or in the middle of deserts. Actually, I don’t often visit places like this, but I’ve always seen them in films.
What are some of the advantages of quiet places?
Quiet places allow you to think and relax, maybe you have important decisions to make or problems to deal with. A quiet place is always a good spot to find the answer. Furthermore, they are places where you have time to focus on creative activities, such as reading or writing.
What kinds of places do people want to go to when they want to be alone? People want to be alone because they do not want to be bothered, so they can go to their room, or use this feeling to have new adventures like small walks or hikes to places they’ve never been before. Furthermore, they may take a brisk walk in the countryside, a field, a forest, etc. In this chaotic (stressful) world, you can still find places like that.
What places, in your opinion, can be considered peaceful places?
In my opinion, a peaceful place is a place where there are few or no people, a place that will allow you to think and relax a little bit. With this said, usually, beaches, mountains, open fields, forests, and lakes usually carry this kind of feeling. Lastly, my bedroom is this kind of place, as it’s located in the loft (top part) of my house.
Do you think that cities will become noisier in the future?
I don’t think that cities will get noisier, on the contrary, they will get quieter. This because new technologies will allow quieter environments, even in crowded areas. Certain technologies such as soundproof (block sound) walls and windows certainly help with this problem. Furthermore, due to urban planning, uninhabited areas will be built to make sure that cities don’t become overcrowded.
Describe a film you would like to share with your friend.
You should say:
- What it is
- Where you watched it
- Who you watched it with
- And why you want to share it with your friend
Well, there are a few films that can actually catch my attention, one of those being “Green Planet”. It is two hours of action being taken to save the planet. I first watched this film alone, and have since shared it with my family members and friends.
This award-winning film helped me to have a very conscious mind about food and trash reduction. That is why every time I have a new friend coming to my house, I show them the film and at the end of it, we discuss it. So, this movie has been very transformative not only to my own life but also in the lives of my family and friends.
I decided to share it with my friends because the director has an unmatchable way of explaining it in a way that everyone can understand. Furthermore, he uses stories in the film that undeniably make the viewer feel empathy about the planet. In conclusion, this film is one of a kind (unique).
Part 3
Which kinds of films are popular in your country?
In my country, action movies are most popular, as we love the way people solve their problems in a very fanciful way. We always crave movies of people hanging off a plane or saving the planet, maybe to add color to our lives. Sometimes I wish that fantasy was all true!
Why do you think people like watching films?
People like watching films because they feel part of the story, they feel like they’re saving the world and conquering a new galaxy, this is what makes it so special. Furthermore, it is a way to pass time to unwind (relax) by ourselves and even spend time with others. But still, all in all, it’s a great escape from the ordinary world.
سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس با جواب پارت دوم
Do you think films have changed since you were a child? How?
Films have developed so much lately, in particular, fantasy films, the level of detail makes them look so realistic. I can remember that films were very unrealistic during my childhood, which even makes me laugh looking back now. For example, the movie IT is comical now due to outdated technology. Furthermore, I think films have become more psychological and terrifying.
As the technology for home viewing improves, do you think people will stop going to the cinema in the future?
I don’t think it will stop people from going to the cinemas. This is due to the quality of sounds and images also, going to the cinema is the whole experience by itself. I think there will always be a certain charm about the cinema, whether it’s a date on a rainy date or a family activity to do. Perhaps more people watch movies on their big screens on their TV nowadays, but they still go to the cinema quite frequently.
IELTS Speaking Tests with Answers
Describe an object
Describe a good experience of online shopping.
You should say:
- When it happened
- What you bought
- Why you bought it
- And explain why you think it was a good experience
I’m going to talk about a recent successful online shopping experience that I’ve had. To be honest, I’ve had countless incidents in which I ordered the wrong size or the product ended up being completely different than how it appeared online, so I was surprisingly delighted with this purchase. Well, let me tell you about it. Zara is my favorite store, and unfortunately, there isn’t one currently near my house, so I decided to check out their online shopping site. I just started a professional job, so I’m always in need of more professional clothes. Zara always seems to fit me well and has classy, smart clothes, so I decided I would order a white dress from them. Luckily, the dress was on sale for $30 instead of $50, which gave me even more incentive to buy it. The model was a lot thinner and taller than me, so I doubted it would look as good on me, but I was willing to take my chances. To my surprise, the dress fits me like a glove (fits me like a glove)! Furthermore, the dress arrived in 2 days when they predicted 3-4! This was a positive experience because now I get compliments whenever I wear the dress. The fit and style couldn’t be better on me, and I feel very tasteful (stylish) when I wear it. I now know I can count on Zara to fit me. Zara has a good price-to-quality ratio. All in all would recommend it!
Part 3:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of online shopping?
The advantages would be that it’s more convenient and saves loads of time, avoiding those dreaded (terrible) lines. Furthermore, sites like Amazon tend to have secondhand (used) items, so you can save a lot of money this way. The negatives are that you cannot try clothing on before, sometimes items don’t look the same in person, the shipping fees, and the time you have to wait for the item. By the same token, it’s a hassle (annoyance) to send it back if there’s an issue. So, all in all, there are more disadvantages, I’d say.
Do you think it is safe to shop online?
Depends on the site. If you use a reputable one like Amazon or the store’s website, it is generally very safe. However, buying from private sellers online, especially in their homes, can be risky. Furthermore, scams always exist online, so you never know if someone could be scamming you. I always say, if you have time, it’s better to go buy the item in person to gain more trust in the purchase.
Do you think the government should impose more control on online shopping?
Wow, this isn’t something I’ve ever thought about. In my opinion, I think the government should investigate to make sure sites are reputable, but that’s about all. I don’t think there should be any limit to what we buy, as long as they are legal products. Every purchase benefits the economy, so at this point, I don’t see a need to regulate it.
Describe a product or application which is based on artificial intelligence
You should say:
- What it is
- What it is used for
- How it is used
- And explain what you think of it
Artificial intelligence, the latest front in computer science, is affecting all fields of technology, continually making our lives easier. Nowadays there are countless (many) apps and products in existence thanks to artificial intelligence, but I would like to talk about one I’m especially fond of (like), which is the robot vacuum cleaner, especially the Samsung Powerbot. I’ve always been a bad sleeper, so this is an ideal creation for me. I was gifted one for Christmas last year and I’ve been in love with it ever since!
Instead of sweeping the floors, the robot vacuums are battery-operated machines that go all over your house to pick up all the dirt, animal fur, and dust for you! All you have to do is put batteries in them and empty them out after they do their rounds (go around). You can even program it to sweep the floors at a specific time daily! The interesting thing about them is that they remember the map of the room and have a sensor to know when they are approaching another object, and then turn away. Furthermore, they sense when they have sufficiently cleaned the floors then return back to their charging station home- base.
I think this is such a brilliant invention, as I usually miss dirt when I sweep the floors myself. Although it’s pricey, about $300 per machine, I believe it’s worth it for the time and efficiency of it. Since a lot of people track dirt into the house when they enter, this is a sure way to keep the floors constantly clean and tidy. All in all, I’m a huge fan of it (I really like it)!
Part 3
Can Artificial Intelligence be conscious?
Mmm…not really. I know they are programmed to sense when someone is near them or enters the room, but I’m unsure of whether they are really conscious. For example, with more advanced robots such as Erica, I do believe she has feelings and her individual personality. Furthermore, I know she has a very developed “brain”. On the other hand, I know that Alexa or Siri don’t have a conscience. They simply respond with a series of programmed responses. Perhaps it’s just my own bias (preference), but I’m firm in the fact that I don’t believe that robots’ emotions could never match humans’.
How does AI help us in everyday life?
Alexa helps us to check the weather, save electricity by turning the lights off when we leave the room, remember our favorite playlists, etc. More than anything else, she reduces the amount of monotonous (boring and repetitive) tasks we are used to doing and making our lives easier. I believe there are more benefits than drawbacks to her presence. On the other hand, we shouldn’t rely too heavily on Al, since technology can fail us at any given second.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of AI?
I would say the advantages are that it saves time, reminds us to conserve electricity, makes listening to music easier, provides easier navigating, and is simply rather amusing. On the other hand, I don’t think there are any drawbacks (disadvantages) to her except the fact that people become too reliant on technology and tend to get irritated when it fails them. For example, I always go to my friend’s house and when Alexa can’t understand what he said, he will start to holler at her! I think people build too high of expectations for technology, assuming it should be just as intelligent as a human, which causes people to lose their tempers (get angry).
Describe a prize you want to get
You should say:
- What it is
- When you know the prize What you need to do
- And explain why you would like to win it
The prize I would like to get is from a quiz show called “Who wants to be a millionaire?”, known all over the world. I’m sure you are familiar with this, so it’s unnecessary to explain every detail of how it works. So, I’ll describe it briefly.
It is roughly like this, contestants have to answer a total of 15 questions that get increasingly more difficult. For every answer that you get right, you’ll be awarded a determined amount of money. Apparently, if you’re not sure about one particular question, you can always stop the game and go home with the money. But if you’re feeling adventurous you can just go with your instinct. And there are always three “aids” you can use, for example, you can call your friends for help, or choose to have half of the options eliminated.
Winning first prize, which means nailing (getting correct) all 15 questions, is what I’m aiming for. The game requires you to know a bit of everything, so I’m reading up on areas that I’m not interested in or familiar with. I’m also looking for people who I can call for help during the program. I’m planning on entering the competition next month!
Part 3
Is it good to have competition?
I think competition is healthy to an extent. But, I think the number one person we should compete with is always ourselves. Being better than we previously were is the number one priority, in my opinion. However, team and individual competitions are also a healthy and necessary way to motivate people to try their hardest and gain a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship (respect to the other team whether you win or lose). By the same token, failure is also a great lesson to help us to be better in the future. We all need failure just as much as we need success!
Do you think it’s good to award prizes in school and/university?
Yes, I believe so. By setting a prize, we give the students incentive to learn and try their hardest. Awards like Student of the Month, Perfect Attendance Awards, Dean’s List, etc. are something that boosts the confidence of the student, and may even benefit their future when they add these achievements onto their CVs. Furthermore, while school can be a dry, dull place, adding competitions adds a level of entertainment, which makes it a more fun environment. Moreover, even if a student loses a competition, that failure can be transformed into a positive lesson down the road (in the future). Of course, there are always some students and parents who take it too far, but all in all, it is healthy and much need practice in the school system.
Do you think companies should give their employees prizes?
Definitely! Awards like Employee of the Month, promotions, and so on motivate employees to give their best in their jobs. If employees always give 100% and never receive anything in return, they may feel that there is no incentive to work hard. For those who are naturally competitive, this is a necessity to them. Of course, some employees may become jealous or resentful (hateful) of others, but it is also a motivating factor to build a sense of sportsmanship and will make them want to work even harder the next time around.
How to reward successful people?
Truth be told, rewards for successful people should come in plenty of forms. If they make an enormous contribution to the nation, then they should be given proper publicity. For example, a veteran who fought bravely or a hero who sacrificed their lives for the peace of a country should be remembered forever in sculptures and paintings. On the other hand, successful business people who play a significant role in the development of their nation’s economy should be awarded medals or certifications so as to stimulate them to make even greater contributions in the future
Should schools establish awards? What rewards can children get from school?
From what I see, I guess it is quite well-advised for schools to have a reward system to encourage good deeds and academic performance amongst students. Students would be helpful citizens if schools add extra points to their academic record for talking to an elder across the street, offering to lift a heavy object for a passer-by on the street, for example. On top of that, academically poor students can feel the motivation to strive further in their studies to reap the rewards, like they can obtain some pocket money for being the top student in the class during a semester. This can greatly spur their scholastic progress.
Should parents push their children to get prizes?
Children are at an impressionable age, so adults can interfere in their ways of thinking. Some measures can be adopted to change children’s mindset, and one is by raising their awareness via realistic and practical action. Parents can show their kids that they can do rapid calculations if they learn math properly at school, or they can sing well when they grow up if they don’t skip music classes.
What do you think employers can do to help motivate their employees to perform better at work, besides giving them a pay raise?
There is a number of ways that bosses or supervisors can adopt to raise their employees’ morale and enhance the overall work productivity apart from offering them a higher salary. I guess the most effective approach would be for companies to organize annual excursions so that their workers can socialize with one another and cultivate team spirit while they can escape from the stress for a while. The second one is that more a flexible working schedule should be brought in because this would allow workers to have more quality family time and a worry-free set of mind at work.
Describe an important technological product you bought
You should say:
- What it was How you used it
- Why you bought it
- And explain why you think it is important
I consider myself lucky to have a job in a multinational company, which caused me to buy a laptop for my ordinary use at home. I’m very satisfied with this purchase, so I would love to share the story. Well, let me give you some background.
I am the eldest daughter of my family and live with them here in India. I recently got a job that requires me to complete digital tasks online. Besides, it has become impossible for me to use the internet with my old cell phone. Considering everything, I have bought a laptop from the Dell brand shop online. Though I saved a portion of money from sources like private tuition for the laptop for a long time, the best opportunity came when I got appointed to this multinational company. I added the remaining from my salary and brought the laptop home.
This is the age of technology and using the internet with mobile phones is not very efficient. Someone may browse the internet or social networking websites temporarily on a mobile network, but that is not suitable for any large-scale jobs. Often I have to perform some official tasks using the internet and this is almost impossible by using the cell phone. Besides, I like watching movies for recreational purposes and my cell phone is unable to come with such support for me. Moreover, my parents are devoutly religious and love listening to guided prayers there. Considering all such matters, I decided to get a laptop but unfortunately could not manage the entire amount. So, when I received my paycheck, I bought it right away!
I bought the laptop last month and have been using it for around three weeks. By this time, the laptop has proved its worth. It holds an outstanding charge- usually about 7 hours. Besides, my parents are also using it and they are happy too. I planned to use the internet modem but my father has arranged a broadband internet connection. So, using the internet is no longer a problem for us. I have two younger sisters and they are also careful about using the laptop. They mostly use the laptop when I am not home and watch cartoons and animated movies on the internet. My mother takes care of the laptop and she is responsible for keeping it safe and clean from dust.
I was really happy to buy this laptop. It may sound strange to some that it was a dream for me. I have realized the necessity of a laptop when I was at my university. I was unable to complete projects and assignments. I had to rely (depend) on my friends who had their own laptops. Though they cordially allowed me to use their laptops, I felt uncomfortable most of the time. On the other side, my family was not fortunate enough to spend some extra bucks(dollars) for me to buy a laptop. So, I made a plan to make this dream come true. After lots of struggles, I got the job and finally have my own laptop. All in all, I couldn’t live without it now!
Part 3
How much has technology improved how we communicate with each other?
This is a controversial (debatable) topic. On one hand, communication had opened up endless windows of opportunities to reach a broader spectrum (range) of people, keep in touch (contact) with people better, and just all in all made communication more accessible. For example, I lived across the world, but I still felt close to my family, thanks to FaceTime. On the other hand, I believe it has had a negative effect on how we communicate with others. Where in the past we used to value discussing matters at face value, we now hide behind computer screens. I even feel I am scared to confront people face to face when I could make it easier over the phone or via text message/email. All in all, there are positives and negatives to it.
Do you agree that there are still many more major technological innovations to be made?
Of course! Endless, actually. There is more than will be created than we can even imagine at this particular moment in time. Looking back, I could never have dreamt in my wildest dreams all that is accessible to us nowadays. I’m anxious to see what will be available to us in the future! I can imagine hologram (digital) image video chats!
Do you think people rely too much on technology?
At times! I think people are becoming incapable of doing things the old school way, and with that said losing real skill. For example, I am a teacher and we rely so heavily on videos, smartboards, audio files, etc, that when technology fails us, we are completely lost. Furthermore, I must be connected to my phone, email, and text messages at all times to even function. Moreover, I see that children are starting to not be able to enjoy life without a tablet or phone, whereas kids enjoyed playing outside and getting dirty in the past. So yes, in this world where a wifi connection can fail us in an instant, people often rely too heavily on it.
Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to reduce their use of technology?
I’m seeing that people are starting to realize that they can’t enjoy the moment they are in because they are always glued to(attached to) their phones. Furthermore, they want to reduce the amount of time they stare at a computer screen all day, as it is straining and damaging to our eyes. Moreover, parents want to try to manage the time their kids spent playing video games, encouraging them to get more fresh air. With the app that records the amount of time that you spent on social media a day, it’s a bit shameful to see how much time we waste away, so people are taking action against it.
Describe something that you brought home from a tourist attraction
You should say:
- What it is
- Where you got it
- Why you brought it home
- How do you feel
I’m going to tell you about my most recent trip in which I purchased a special souvenir. Well, a few months ago I went to Switzerland on holiday and brought home a painting from a local shop in Zurich. It was a bit of a hassle (annoying) to bring home because of the high taxes in the airport. However, it was such a nice piece of painting that it was worth it. It was a large oil painting that depicts (describe) beautiful natural scenery common in Switzerland and not quite common in my homeland. I have hung it in my bedroom and it is now one of the most beautiful and cherished (special) souvenirs for me.
I went on this trip in early March with my 2 friends. The alpine scenery, picturesque (attractive& interesting) villages, glittering (bright and shining) blue lakes, beautiful lakeside, and astounding (appalling) tranquility of the villages took our breath away. Since we are artsy people, we attended an art festival in the mountains where I found this painting. As I don’t like keychains or T-shirts as much, I decided to bring this home as my only souvenir.
Now, every time I look at this painting, it reminds me of the exciting and memorable days I had spent on our holiday in Switzerland. Apart from that, the painting is a bit different than the other paintings I have in our house, so it really stands out (noticeable; different). This picture takes me back (to remind someone of something in the past) in time.
Part 3
What kinds of souvenirs do people usually buy from tourist attractions?
Well, it depends on the person, but I would say the most common souvenirs are keychains, mugs, magnets, shot glasses, art items, T-shirts, etc. I would say that people who have some sort of vices such as drinking or smoking usually go for a souvenir that suits this, such as a local liquor or a cigar from a specific place. However, children tend to buy some sort of toy or T-shirt related to the place. On the other hand, women tend to buy a clothing item or perhaps an accessory such as earrings, a necklace, or a scarf, where men tend to buy some sports memorabilia or the like.
Is it good that the locals sell things to tourists?
Yes! For many places, tourism is one of the only industries, so they have to take advantage of this. For example, a local can really benefit from selling their homemade crafts to a tourist. Of course the local benefits financially, but they could also get their name out there (become well-known/famous), while leaving the tourist with a one of a kind gift. On the other hand, the locals shouldn’t be too aggressive or rip off (cheat financially) the tourists because it could turn the tourists off to the place. It’s all a balance!
Do you prefer to buy souvenirs or useful things? Why?
As I’m more of a practical person, I prefer to buy useful things or more experiences in the particular place that I visit. For example, I would much rather spend those $10 on a special meal or put it towards a tour rather than buying a T-shirt that I may never wear again. Furthermore, I’m really into photography, so a memorable moment captured in time is much more valuable than a magnet, mug, or shot glass could ever be to me. To celebrate my travels, I showcase my photography on social media and frame the pictures to hang on my walls.
What is your opinion about the asking price for souvenirs?
It depends! For example, I would never let myself be gouged (charged an unreasonably high price) buying a last-minute souvenir at an airport. Along with just the airports, many places elevate the prices in touristy areas. I think it’s a bit unfair, but it’s just kind of how it is. Of course, I wouldn’t want to be ripped off, but I can also understand that this is a good opportunity for especially impoverished countries to make money from wealthier tourists. In my opinion, the best souvenirs to buy are handicrafts from humble, local people on the streets or in a small shop.
سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس با جواب پارت دوم
Describe a time you spent a lot of money on something.
You should say:
- What you bought
- When you bought it
- Where you bought it
- And explain why you spent a lot of money to buy it
Well, let me tell you about a time I spent a lot of money. It was Christmas time, but also it was time to get a gift for myself. After a long year of hard work, not to mention a grueling (very difficult) one, it was time to spoil myself a little bit. I knew exactly what I wanted, which was the latest iPhone. I had had mine for about 3 years and I knew it was time for an upgrade. So, I carefully saved up money throughout the year, to make sure I could provide this for myself at the end of the year.
The day before Christmas I went into the C Train that takes to downtown and from the train station, I walked to about 15 minutes and I arrived at the Apple Store. I knew it was going to be a lot of money but I was aware that those products last for a very long time, that’s why I decided to get it. After leaving the cashier counter and leaving most of my money, I rapidly (quickly) went back to the train station with my bag in my hands and headed home. When I arrived there, I was so excited to open it as test the new phone. In conclusion, it was worth it!
Part 3
Why do young people tend to waste money?
People tend to waste more money because they like to flex (try to look cool) or pretend in front of their friends. They want to show that they can afford things that maybe the other can’t like the latest iPhone or expensive vacations. So, it’s all something superficial for young kids.
Why is it important for people to save some of their money?
Saving money is important because you don’t know how the future is going to be, maybe you will go through rough times where you wish you’ve saved all the money you spent on mundane objects. Still, I think it’s all about balance. Don’t fret (worry) over money too much, but also don’t spend it like a drunken sailor (like a crazy person).
Should children be taught how to manage money?
Children should be taught how to manage their money, it is very important that from the very beginning we all know how to make the best use of our money- it could be saving or investing. Instead of learning so many mathematical skills that we may never use in the school system, I think they should have more classes like this.
Who is better at saving more money, men or women?
I would say that it does not depend on gender, it depends fully on the kind of education we received as kids and also in schools. They say that men can be impulsive, but I know a fair share of women who are the same. On the other hand, perhaps women spend more on physical maintenance, but by the same token (in the same way), there are also many men who do so.
IELTS recent questions with Answers
Describe an event
Describe a time that you invited family or friends to have dinner at home or in a restaurant
You should say:
- who organized this meal where you had it
- what you talked about during the meal
- what you ate and drank and explain why you had this meal with your friends.
I’m going to tell you about a time I invited my parents and grandparents over to my house for tortellini soup. I had just moved into my new house, so I was really excited about this housewarming (a party for a new house) event. Actually, I was extra excited because I just moved near my relatives after living across the country for years.
I planned this event myself because I felt confident in my ability to make tortellini soup. Along with the soup, I prepared an Italian-style salad and some warm, homemade bread with it. My mom passed the recipe down to me, so I had years of experience preparing it. I know it’s always a hit (popular; successful) at social events! During the meal, we talked about memories of my mother, who had passed away 10 years before. Every time we eat her recipe, it always brings back memories of her. After that, we had a small talk about our weekly plans and updates in our lives. Furthermore, my family asks me lots of questions about what home improvement plans I had for my new home, so I showed them the furniture and paint colors I had chosen for the house.
We drank Pinot Grigio wine during the meal, which paired well with the Italian flavors. We met to catch up and enjoy my new home together. It was a simple yet very pleasant dinner party!
Part 3
Do people in your country prefer to eat at home or in restaurants?
Since I’m from a low-income country, people tend to eat at home rather than at restaurants to economize. Furthermore, the family is very central in my country, so all of the family members come together with the ingredients they have to cook a grand meal together on the daily. When we all pitch in, we all end up saving money and enjoying a higher quality meal than we would get at a restaurant.
What do people usually cook for special festivals?
Although seemingly strange or unappealing to others, guinea pigs are a delicacy in my country. For the Festival of the Sun in June every year, we prepare the guinea pig called “Cuy” and eat it home with our families, and even sell it on the streets. Sometimes we also prepare a cold dish called “Chiriuchu” which consists of chicken, guinea pig, fish eggs, and seaweed is eaten cold. Still, I understand it doesn’t sound tasty to others, but I’m very fond it of it.
What would you say are the benefits and drawbacks of eating in a restaurant?
The benefits are that it is easier, more convenient, less work and that you are able to try more international dishes whose ingredients you may never get to get your hands on (find). Also, at a restaurant, they often have interesting cocktails and appetizers to try with your meal. However, the disadvantages are that it’s more expensive, you tend to consume larger portions and more calories, and that you don’t know the real source of your food. In my opinion, it isn’t healthy to constantly eat at restaurants. They should be reserved for special occasions, if you want to try a specific food that you don’t know how to prepare, or if you’re in a pinch for time (have limited time).
More and more people are having (or, getting) their meals delivered, so would people cook at home?
With the food delivery apps of today, I can see that fewer people are eating at home. In countries like America where fast food is cheaper than home-cooked meals, I can definitely see how people would choose that option over cooking at home. However, in my country, fast food is very expensive, so people cannot afford to eat out (eat at a restaurant) very often. Since we have ample markets with fresh, delicious ingredients available to us, it is not common to go out for meals other than for special occasions.
an occasion you got up early in the morning.
You should say:
- When this happened
- what you needed to do that day
- Who you were with
- and how you felt about getting up early that day
To be honest, I was rarely out of bed by 8.00 AM apart from some specific occasions. However, there is an occasion I had to wake up earlier than usual which is my trip to ABC last summer vacation.
I was supposed to get everything prepared the night before, so I did pack my suitcases with all the essential items that I might need for my vacation trip, like suntan cream or some swimming costumes. When the preparation was over, I try to send myself to sleep but ended up tossing and turning in bed, so you see, I hardly got a wink of sleep. When the dawn came, I went out to feel the gentle touch of a cool breeze on my face, then I also took a sip of coffee to get myself fully awake. After some minutes, the coach showed up and I got in no time.
I took the trip with 2 of my besties, so we had the chance to catch up on gossip with one another. We also had fun at many outdoor activities on the beach like surfing. Although I was a bit exhausted at the end of the journey due to lack of sleep, it was definitely an enjoyable time. Since then, I have been less of a night owl and got up earlier, which I think is a better and healthier habit.
PART 3
Do people in your country like naps?
Frankly speaking, the majority of people in my country seem to like taking a siesta in the afternoon. Understandably, it has been a proven fact that a short nap can recharge people’s batteries after an arduous morning working or studying. Having said that, some of my friends, for instance, aren’t in the habit of taking such a short rest as they think a cup of coffee can do the trick and they’d rather save that time to complete their outstanding tasks at hand.
What time is better for teenagers to study, in the morning or at night?
Personally, I’d pick study in the morning simply because teenagers can have a better concentration span. Specifically, after a night’s rest, your body fully recovers and your minds are more refreshed, which can be conducive to the acquisition of knowledge. By contrast, after a backbreaking day at school or work, most teenagers often become lazy or sleepy, at this time what they wish to do is go to sleep right off the bat.
Why do people always say it’s healthy to eat breakfast?
Without a shadow of a doubt, breakfast is of great importance if we expect to have a productive day of working or studying. After a long night’s rest, the body extremely needs energy which can be met by a supply of nutrients from a sumptuous breakfast. Also at this time of the day, the body’s absorption rate is highest which means that the foods consumed would be digested properly and absorbed quickly into the body, and turned into energy for the next working period.
Is working late at night influence the next day’s work?
Absolutely yes. If you are being pressurized by a backbreaking deadline and have to burn the midnight oil complete it in time, the chances are that you will feel completely fatigued and lose your appetite the next working day. This is simply because good sleep is important for your body to recover from exhaustion. What I mean here is that it’s better if you turn in early and wake up earlier than being a night owl and lie in the next morning
Describe the information that was incorrect that you got.
You should say:
- When it happened
- What the information was How you found it incorrect
- And explain how you felt about it
Well, wrong information creates many difficulties in our lives. Sometimes we have to face danger due to faulty (incorrect) details. So, here I would like to talk about a time when I got the wrong information from a website.
About 3 years ago, my friend sent me an email with an attached link to something. He wrote me that it is a link to a website where there is an article related to a painting competition. I clicked on that link and a website was opened on my laptop’s screen within a few seconds. I read a piece of information related to a painting competition at the district level. It was going to organize an art gallery in my district, and it was necessary to register for it. So, I registered for
this competition because I can paint a variety of paintings. The fee for this painting contest was about 50 dollars, so I paid it with my credit card. The competition would occur in ten days. I started my preparations for performing better in this competition. On the day of the competition, I went to Moga via bus and I arrived there at 8.00 A.M. I visited the correct place because I had received the venue from the website. I entered an art gallery named “Street Art”.
I asked about this painting competition to reception. The receptionist told me that there would be a competition held, even though I showed them a receipt which I got during registration. To add to it, He explained to me that there was an error on their ad regarding the date and that he would do what he could to help me out.
He apologized to me for this inconvenience, but I still couldn’t help but feel so disappointed. All in all, after that moment, I came back home. Now you see, wrong information causes inconveniences.
Part 3
Would you say people trust the information that is found online?
In this day and age, people tend to believe everything they read online without even questioning it first. This is dangerous, as people sometimes write whatever they want online. Before we determine that information is trustworthy, we must consider the source. I think the information can be trusted from sites with a .org/.edu at the end of it, as well as photographs for extra proof. For example, one safety precaution is to never go directly to someones’ house from the internet. It’s always better to meet at a public place first.
How can people check whether a piece of information is correct or not?
There are various means that can help people tell the right information from the wrong one. The first approach is to gain access to reliable sources of information and make a comparison with the fraudulent information to see the differences. Dependable sources of news can be established in newspapers like BBC, the New York Times, and other verified news agencies. The second method is that people can ask for advice from professionals in the field, either by phone or email and wait for some days to receive their feedback.
What are the most common ways in which people obtain information?
I think people obtain the larger share of their information from books and mass media like TV, newspapers, and radio. And today since the Internet has grown exponentially, more and more people are getting their information from the web. There is an eclectic mix of stuff that those who go online can take advantage of, such as newsfeeds on social networking websites like Facebook, or informative content from other electronic news platforms.
Describe a time you enjoyed your free time
You should say:
- When it was
- Where you were
- What you did
- And how you felt about it
Version 1:
There have been several instances in which I have had the pleasure of enjoying my free time over the course of my life, but I will talk about the most recent one. Well, to give you some background, I have recently taken on a new managerial position at a company. Since I’m new to management, I find some of the tasks and responsibilities overwhelming at times, so free time is something I cherish (appreciate) more now.
Luckily, there was a holiday last Monday, so I had a three-day weekend. I took advantage of this time by going to visit my relatives for the weekend. She lives a couple of hours away, so I made a short road trip there across my state. As soon as I got there, I was greeted by warmth and affection. I was staying at my auntie’s house, so we spent countless hours at the pool drinking margaritas all weekend. Along with this, we cooked together and caught up (updated each other). One afternoon we went to visit my grandfather, in which we just relaxed and prepared lunch for him. Although it was a simple weekend, it was just the relaxation that I needed.
I felt so happy and light-hearted (simple; non-emotional) over this whole weekend. When I went back to work on Monday, I felt re-charged and ready to tackle (face) all the challenges of the week. Family is my number one, so I always feel relaxed after I get to spend time with them. All in all, it was a very pleasant visit.
Version 2:
Wow! That is difficult to just think of one instance, as I tend to always enjoy my free time. However, I’ll tell you about one day last week when I had a snow day (the day when you can’t leave the house because of a snowstorm) and couldn’t leave the house. I’m not a fan of the snow, so I often get down in the dumps during the winter season. But, this day I decided to cheer up (get happy). I was home alone, so I started off the day by making myself pancakes, eggs, and a few cups of coffee. I think even just this kicked off the day better for me, as I’m usually scrambling around (running around quickly) at the last minute to get to work on time in the mornings.
After breakfast, I went outside in my yard for a bit and just sat in the snow in my apartment complex. Then I decided to trigger my inner child (act like a child) and build a snowman and make snow angels. This really made my day! After this, for old time’s sake (to remember old memories), I went inside and made myself a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows, as my mother used to do for my brother and I when we were kids. Following this, I stayed in my apartment all day sprawled out (lied) across the floor with blankets and pillows watching Netflix. I watched everything from childhood classics like Lion King to conspiracy theory documentaries.
I truly felt relaxed and at ease on this day. As I tend to get lost in the demands of my boss as well as drama with my boyfriend, I really needed a day like this. Actually, this day changed my attitude about snow. I used to think of it as just an inconvenient, inefficient day, whereas now I see it in a different light. Now I see them as opportunities to awake my inner child and take me back to the good old days!
Part 3
What do people like to do when they are free in your country?
Like me, many people like to spend time with their family or friends in their free time, as we all have heavy work schedules during the week. For family and friend time, people often go out for meals together, go to the cinema, hang out at each other’s houses, go to bars, etc. Furthermore, since obesity is a growing problem, many people choose to exercise before or after work during the week or on weekends. Additionally, many people spend their free time taking their kids to sporting events or to other extracurricular activities over the weekends, such as soccer games, etc.
Do you think most people are able to manage their free time?
Not all! As I said before, many people spend their free time stressing about work and/or the future. Furthermore, since people don’t tend to have much free time, to begin with, the only free time they have is spent running errands to prepare for the following week. Moreover, many people tend to sleep in (sleep without an alarm) on weekends and waste the day away, or maybe just watch TV on the sofa all day long. Since many people have to be on call or go to work on weekends, there isn’t much time to get out of town on the weekends, either. Additionally, many people spend all of the free time they have taking their children to their activities, so there isn’t enough time to do what they would truly enjoy. With all of this said, I wouldn’t say most people know how to effectively spend their free time in my country.
What is the difference between the things people did in their free time in the past and the things they do nowadays?
Well, I would say technology definitely plays a role in this. Furthermore, the importance of quality family time is disappearing as the world progresses. Let’s take children for example. I would imagine they used to spend their free time playing outdoors in the past, where now they may spend it staring at a TV screen or playing video games for the entire day. When it comes to the family as a whole, I would imagine in the past that they would all have meals together and go out together on weekends, whereas now there is more independence and separation of the family. With more entertainment available now, such as the cinema, arcades, bars, etc., people would rather do this instead of spending quality time with family.
Describe a quiz program or game show on TV.
You should say:
- What it is
- When you watch it What it is about
- And explain how you feel about the program
I’m going to talk about a quiz show called “Who wants to be a millionaire?”. As it famous all over the globe, I’m sure you’ve heard of it before. It can be viewed by everyone, as it is family-friendly. Well, let me tell you how it works.
At the start of the show, the contestants gather and prepare to answer a multiple-choice question to decide who gets to be in the “hot seat”. Naturally, it’s the person who answers accurately within the shortest time frame.
When a contestant is selected, he or she will proceed to sit in a chair in the center and have the opportunity to answer a total of 15 questions that become progressively more difficult. For every answer that you answer correctly, you are awarded a determined amount of money. Apparently, if you’re unsure of one particular question, you can always stop the game and go home with the money that you have allotted at that time. However, if you are willing to take your chances, you can follow your instinct and keep going. Also, there are always three “aids” you can use, for example, you can call your friends for help, or choose to have half of the options eliminated.
All in all, I enjoy this game because it’s very suspenseful: it always keeps me on the edge of my seat! Furthermore, I gain knowledge from watching this show. Since I have 2 teenage children, I like that it is something that we can all watch together!
Part 3
Do people in your country like to watch TV?
Too much! People in my country are definitely couch potatoes (people who like to stay on the sofa all day). Since it’s always rainy here, people tend to stay indoors and watch Netflix quite often. With a raging entertainment industry, there is always some hot new TV series coming out, which leaves people on the edge of their seats (anxious; excited).
What games do children play nowadays?
In this technological world, children are shifting more towards video games, as well as games on their cell phones or tablets. Actually, I was shocked the other day when I walked past a group of elementary kids who were all simultaneously staring away at their cell phones, lost in their games. I always get on (push) my children to go outside and take a bike ride or a walk instead of staring at their X-box all evening long.
Are there any differences between the games children’s games and adults’ games?
Yes, to an extent. First of all, kids tend to have more energy, so they like games like tag where they can run around like crazy. Furthermore, kid’s games are usually more cartoon character-based games or educational games that work on building soft skills. Since adults already have these skills, their games are usually based on creativity or a higher intelligence level. However, there are many similarities of all games, considering most are based on entertainment and problem-solving skills.
Describe a time the vehicle you were traveling in broke down.
You should say:
- where you were going
- who you were with
- how long it took to fix the vehicle
- and explain how you felt about it.
Well, there is no doubt that the invention of vehicles made our lives more convenient and comfortable. Nowadays, with the advancement of technology, distances are made much shorter since there are various modes of transportation available such as buses, trains, bikes, and cars. Most of the time, I prefer to use my own car for traveling. Luckily, I had not faced (had) many problems with my car. However, I would like to share an incident when my car was broken down on the side of the road while traveling.
A couple of months before, I traveled to Leeds with my husband. We started our journey full of excitement but unfortunately, when we reached the 100k mark, suddenly our car started making a strange noise. We stopped the car on the left side of the road and tried to check out (inspect) the issue. Although we didn’t find any problem, the sound of the engine was becoming louder and louder. After a few minutes, the whole situation became worse, and we even saw smoke coming out of the engine!
This was the first time our car gave us such trouble. Luckily, my husband had a service center number in his pocket. So we called a mechanic for car repair. By the grace of God (luckily), the service center was near us, so a mechanic arrived in five minutes. He checked the car’s engine properly and replaced a belt as well as the coolant. All in all, it took an hour to repair. Finally, our car’s engine started again and we felt extremely relieved to see it work properly. My feelings of frustration instantly went away. All in all, it was a smooth fix.
Describe a situation when you didn’t have enough time
You should say:
- when it was
- where you were
- what you tried to do or finish
- and explain why you didn’t have enough time for it
I’m going to tell you about a time I was overwhelmed. I was doing extra hours at work for a co-worker who was ill, so I already had plenty on my plate (to have a lot to do). To add to this, my friend asked me to help her out with an online project of her, which required a lot of time, energy, and research. Let me give you more details.
Well, this was just the other week actually in my hometown. She’s been a long-time friend of mine, so I really wanted to give her a hand, but I simply couldn’t manage it. It was a very time-sensitive project, so I didn’t want to accept it then later give up. However, she pushed me into it so I ended up doing what I could of it. The thing that really bugged me was that she made it seem like it would be a simple activity, but it required me to research online for several hours, not to mention then writing out documents for about 6 hours each; there were 4 separate assignments. So, in the end, I did one assignment part of it then sent it back to her and told her she will have to make other arrangements.
I usually work about 40 hours a week, however, it was over 50 with my extra hours that week, so I simply didn’t have much time to spare (extra). Actually, I don’t think it would have been possible to add another 24 hours of work onto that week. Furthermore, I have to be energetic at my job to be able to effectively sell new products, so I definitely cannot neglect my sleep schedule. All in all, it was just an inconvenient time!
سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس با جواب پارت دوم
Describe a situation when you celebrated your achievement.
You should say:
- What you did
- When you celebrated it
- Who you celebrated it with
- And how you felt about it
After four years of sleepless nights and hard work, it was time for my graduation from college. All of my closest family members came to the dry, dull ceremony, and then we would go out afterward. Still, we were so excited about the ceremony graduation but I was more excited about what was coming after it, the celebration. Let me tell you how we celebrated.
For special celebrations, we pick a fine dining restaurant, actually, one of the best in town. So after the ceremony, we went straight (directly) to this restaurant and enjoyed one of the best Italian food you can ever try. I had a lasagna, that is my favorite meal. I felt so good after eating it but also I had a sense of relief after my graduation was done. My family also chose their favorite Italian dishes to celebrate on my behalf.
It was one of the biggest milestones in my life finally completed. I felt so relieved that all my hard work would then pay off (be worth it). Although I was excited for myself, it was the icing on the cake (something special on top of something special) to spend it with my family. All in all, it was an unforgettable day.
Part 3
Do you think that it’s important for people to celebrate their achievements?
Celebrating achievement is important for people because it gives us a better sense of purpose and meaning. When we don’t celebrate, sometimes people lose incentive (motivation) to try hard at something. Furthermore, it makes it even more exciting to celebrate an achievement with family and friends. With this said, I usually celebrate with a dinner with my family.
Why do you think some people prefer not to tell others about their achievements?
Some people might not like to tell others about their achievements because people might take it offensively (annoyingly) or feel inferior (lower). Moreover, some people are very humble and simply don’t like to brag (boast) about their accomplishments. Lastly, maybe people have low self-esteem so they don’t even recognize their own accomplishments.
What events do people in your country like to celebrate?
In my country, we like to celebrate all the birthdays of all of our relatives, mainly the closest ones. Although many cultures tend to forget birthdays as they get older, my country certainly doesn’t. Along with these, we celebrate all of the widely accepted Christian holidays, such as Christmas and Easter.
IELTS Speaking Tests with Answers
Describe an activity
Describe an activity you do to stay healthy.
You should say:
- what you do;
- when you started doing it;
- how much time you spend doing it;
- and explain how this activity helps you stay healthy.
I’m going to talk about my deep love of cycling by the beach. Since a lot of people in my town like to stay in shape (stay healthy/fit), the government built a walking and cycling path along the coastline. I should mention I live just a kilometer away from the beach, so I like to take full advantage of this. I just moved here 5 months ago from the mountains, so this is when I started taking part in this activity. Over the past year, I’ve put on loads of (a lot of) weight, so I’m always looking for ways to lose it. Cycling is one enjoyable way to do so, along with going to the gym. As it’s scorching (very hot) during summer days here in Florida, it’s better to exercise outdoors in the evening, so that’s when I take my bike out. Furthermore, the sunset which gives a cotton candy-colored sky is the perfect backdrop (background) to do exercise while enjoying nature. Cycling undoubtedly improves my mental and physical health. It has cardiovascular benefits as well as leg and core strengthening. It is effective in aiding (helping) in weight loss, as well. When it comes to mental health, it helps reduce my stress by spending time in nature, indulging in (enjoying) breaths of fresh air
Describe a water sport you would like to try in the future.
You should say:
- what sport it is
- When and where would you do it
- What preparations and equipment you would need
- and explain why you would like to try this sport
I’m going to tell you about my interest in paddleboarding. As I grew up about 3 hours from the coast, I frequently went to the beach but I didn’t usually do anything other than just relax on the beach. However, I’ve always seen people do paddle boarding on the inter-coastal waterways and ocean itself, and have wondered what it’s like. I would like to try it in Miami, Florida, about 3 hours from my house. There are lots of opportunities to do paddle boarding and almost any other water sport activity there. For example, there’s sailing, kayaking, canoeing jet skiing, parasailing, etc. For this activity, in particular, I would just need to rent the paddleboard and the paddle, as I don’t own either of them- there are countless places that offer this. I’m sure the company would provide instructions and make you sign a waiver acknowledging the possible risks. I don’t think there is any preparation other than having decent upper body strength, generally being in shape, and listening to the paddling instructions. I’m particularly interested in this sport because it is a good way to exercise while enjoying a nice view. While I’ve tried kayaking, I’ve always wondered if paddleboarding is a whole new challenge, since it involves you to be standing while you do it. All in all, I think it would be a good way to stay in shape and explore the seas.
IELTS recent questions with Answers
Describe your favorite
Describe an impressive advertisement you remember well.
You should say:
- when and where you saw it;
- what was advertised;
- what the contents of the advertisements were;
- and explain why you remember it well.
So I’m going to talk about an advertisement for Blue Electronics, which is one of the biggest electronic brands in Vietnam. I’ve seen its advertisements everywhere, on TV commercials and even on social media networks like Facebook and Instagram. The advertisement shows a video of people dressed as blue household appliances, smiling and staring creepily (strangely) at the screen and dancing spontaneously (unplanned) to a really annoying, yet catchy (memorable) tune. I think the aim of this ad was to leave a big impression on the audience and to make the products seem more appealing (desirable) to them. I also think they are trying to traumatize (scare) the audience so that whenever they hear that tune, they will think of Blue Electronics. I think the advert is impressive because the company is deliberately (intentionally) trying to influence and attract people’s attention, and they do so by trying to present the household appliances as something special, and kind of like a useful friend for everyone I guess. I think older people probably won’t enjoy these kinds of advertisements because they tend to prefer more informative, serious kinds of ads, whereas the younger generation seems to be amused about this kind of advertisement. Since I’m young, I’ll always remember this ad because it made me laugh a lot.
Describe a practical skill you learned.
You should say:
- what the skill was
- who you learned it from
- how you learned it
- and explain how useful it was
In my country, buying a car isn’t exactly a big deal, but driving a car is. It sounds a bit odd, doesn’t it? Well, if it does, then the reason for this is, it is extremely difficult to obtain a driving license in my country as it involves some rigorous (difficult; detailed) driving and road tests. So, when I finally managed to pass the driving test a year ago or so, I felt as if I had landed on the moon (accomplished something huge).
I had recently gone to a job interview in which they required the candidate to have their driver’s license. I was really intrigued by the job, so I decided to follow up on this. So, I went to a local car driving school and started to take driving lessons mostly on the weekends, as I worked during the week. Initially, the lessons involved learning about different parts of a car and its functions. Then came the actual driving lessons on the road by understanding and following different road signs and driving rules. Needless to say, the lessons followed some stringent (strict) driving standards which weren’t always easy to maintain, but that was exactly the real “test” in order to help a future driver understand the safety and security aspects of taking a car on the roads.
Anyway, the lessons had continued for almost three months, and I was finally ready to take an official driving test to obtain a driver’s license. Anyway, I am glad that I had finally learned driving as it has allowed me the freedom to travel to my work and other places at my own pace (speed) and according to my agenda (schedule). Besides, learning this driving skill has also made me confident about applying for some well-paying jobs. Finally, learning how to drive has also allowed me to transport many bulky (big) items in my car, which otherwise would have been really inconvenient for me if I had to take them on the bus like before. All in all, driving is just so useful.
Describe a regular thing you do every day.
You should say:
- what you do
- when and where you do it
- how long you spend doing it
- and explain why you always do this thing
Since the start of 2019, I promised myself to exercise more to lead a healthy lifestyle. So far so good! Let me tell you about my usual workout routine. Well, luckily my apartment complex has a fitness center, so I use this gym the most often, as it’s extremely convenient. Additionally, I have a gym membership at another fitness club, as well as exercise outdoors on days with pleasant weather. When I go to the gym, I usually spend 30-60 minutes doing cardio, in which I alternate between the bicycle, treadmill, and elliptical. After this, I move on to some light weight-lifting to help tone my body. For example, I do some triceps (muscle in your arms) exercises to thin out my arms, or some crunches (abdomen exercise) to harden up my abs (abdominals). So, between cardio and weight lifting, I spend about an hour and fifteen minutes at the gym per day.
I do this because it benefits my mental and physical health. Exercise releases endorphins (a brain chemical), which cause you to feel happier. Furthermore, I feel more confident when I work out. Also, I feel that I have more leeway (freedom) on what I can eat when I exercise, as I’m known for having a sweet tooth (likes sweet food). Lastly, I’ve been wanting to shed (lose) some extra pounds, so exercise definitely aids in this. All in all, there’s no way to argue that exercising is loaded (full) with benefits!
Describe a time you looked for information from the internet
You should say
- When you did that
- What information you searched
- Why you looked for it on the internet
I’m going to talk about this time when I needed a foreign book for my studies. I was in my senior year in university and we had this assignment that required us to find the latest medical breakthroughs (new information) on cancer, some of which are very hard to come by. So, I knew I needed to find this book ASAP. Apparently, in order to get access to new data, you must know the right source and pay some fees. I found out that the breakthroughs that I needed were published in a book, which was not yet for sale in my country. Moreover, even if I’d had it delivered, it would be too late by the time it arrived at my doorstep. I felt really uptight about it, but suddenly I thought of a solution.
So, I decided to contact my former host family in the US to ask them to buy a hard copy then have the specific information scanned and emailed to me. It took some time but eventually, I got the data in time. It was a bit of a hassle (something time-consuming) for my host family, so I decided to buy him a small gift in return.
Part 3
What influence does the internet have on people (individually), and society?
Well, for one, before the internet people interacted much more when meeting up and going out together, now you see people glued to (always looking at) their phone screens. Their focus is on their social media apps looking at what their friends and family are doing through photos and status updates, rather than actually talking to them. Communication is mostly through social media, with instant chat, cutting the need for face-to-face meetings.
On the other hand, the internet has had a positive impact on society because now we can accomplish much more in a shorter time frame. Moreover, people can access information much quicker through google for example, so it creates a generation of well-informed people. Because of this, I believe that our future is very bright.
Do you think libraries will disappear one day?
I think this could be a possibility, as people are beginning to think that libraries are redundant (unnecessary), as the information is also available online. With devices such as E-books, Kindles, Amazon, etc., it’s normal to question how much longer libraries will last. For example, I never use the library because I see it as a hassle to have to check out the book and return it when I could just buy a used copy for next to nothing online from Amazon or borrow it from a friend. However, I still believe that a lot of people like to utilize libraries for the tangible value of holding a book in their hand and having a quiet, serene place to study; libraries have always been a staple to our academic world. So, with all of this said, I think libraries will stay around for at least the next 20 years.
What do people use the internet for?
Pretty much everything! Nowadays, there are countless apps at our fingertips to accomplish all of our tasks. For example, we use the internet to do research, pay our bills, find a dating match, go shopping, make phone calls, find jobs, chat with friends, find workout videos, etc. The better question would be what we don’t use the internet for nowadays. To be honest, I can’t think of any area of life where we don’t use the internet.
Would you say many people waste time “surfing the internet”?
For sure! Nowadays, the average person spends hours surfing the internet each day. Take me for example. My phone has recorded that I spend an average of 2-3 hours a day surfing the web on my phone, not to mention the 6 hours I’m constantly connected to it to carry out my work tasks. In some respects, it’s very useful to google things that you may be curious about throughout the day, but many people spend time surfing Instagram or Facebook watching the lives of people they don’t even know, which is a 100% waste of time in my opinion.
How do you think people will be using the internet in 10 years (time)?
That’s a great question! It’s difficult to imagine this, but I would imagine we will continue to use it in all the respects that we do nowadays, but even at a more elevated level. For example, I’ve often speculated that we will have hologram images instead of video chats. On the other hand, I have a feeling that the online classroom will soon replace the traditional classroom. When it comes to the work world, I imagine that even more jobs will become remote. All in all, the world will continue to advance technologically.
Describe a toy you got in your childhood
You should say:
- What it was
- When you got it
- How you got it
- And how you felt about it
As a child, I enjoyed playing outside and going for hikes with my dogs more than anything else. However, I can remember one specific toy that left a mark (impression) on me. I recall having a super powerful action figure, it was a Super Man, those little toys that you play with for countless (endless) hours with your friends in the backyard. I often brought him along on the hikes with me until one day, unfortunately, my dad chewed him up and broke him!
I got that action figure when I was just 3 years old, and my grandfather gave it to me after we saw the Super Man movie in theaters. My grandfather knew it would make my birthday to get that toy, so he especially picked it out for me. I remember being over the moon (extremely happy) when I saw it and I squeezed (hugged) him so tightly. That small toy put a big smile on my face and helped me to have fun day and night. I loved that toy so much before my dog chewed him up. In conclusion, I’ll never forget that day!
Part 3
Do you think it is good for children to play many computer games?
I think it is good for children to play, but not just computer games, I’m talking about sports or playing with action figures, dolls or toy cars. Just computer games can be limiting and time-consuming. However, maybe some chess or logic games on a computer can be beneficial to a child’s learning.
How do you think a child can benefit from playing a child’s game?
A child can widely benefit from child’s games like hide and seek or jump-rope because these games help them with their motion control and it exercises them. Furthermore, logical games like chess, cards, puzzles, or checkers can improve a child’s reasoning and problem-solving skills. Lastly, bilingual games help children to develop language skills effectively from a young age.
Which do you think is better, for children to play with toys alone or with other kids?
I think sharing, in general, is important for everyone, especially kids. The ability to interact with other human beings is crucial for the mind to develop and playing with another kid is part of it. It reminds me of the Superman figure I got when I was a kid, I and my friends really enjoyed it. It’s important for kids to learn how to share.
Describe a period of time in the history of your country that you want to know more about.
You should say:
- when it was
- what happened during that period of time
- who played an important role in this period of time
- and explain why you want to know more about the time period
Well, my country has been through several historical events under various rulers and governments. This has led to the long and highly fascinating (interesting) history of my country to be written for everyone to know and benefit from. I am fond of (like) reading history in general, however, the most fascinating period to me is from the year 1940 to 1947. It was the last phase of the Indian independence movement while still under British rule. With this said, the British rule in India lasted for nearly two hundred years. It was in 1947 on the fifteenth of August that India had finally gained its freedom from the oppressive and tyrannical British rule.
I am fascinated in gaining knowledge about all the proceedings that took place in this period, as it’s something I am most curious about. I first came across (found) information about this era in my eighth-grade history book. Since then, I have spoken to my grandparents at length (a long time) on this topic. They have shared stories of freedom fighters standing up against the British army for their rights, apart from many of their own personal accounts (experiences) during that time. Furthermore, I have also read many books and watched various movies and documentaries on this subject to expand my knowledge even more.
All in all, this era is full of various occurrences on a mass scale and involves the sacrifices of innumerable (countless) freedom fighters who gave away everything they had in order to fight British rule. During this time, our country was divided into two separate nations, in which a new country named Pakistan made its debut (came into existence). In conclusion, it is indeed one of the most essential (important) periods in shaping my country’s history.
Describe a time when you used the internet to solve a problem.
You should say:
- what problem it was
- when you did this
- how long it took you
- and explain why you used the internet to solve this problem
I’m going to talk about this time when I needed a foreign book for my studies. I was in my senior year in university and we had this assignment that required us to find the latest medical breakthroughs (new information) on cancer, some of which are very hard to come by. So, I knew I needed to find this book ASAP. Apparently, in order to get access to new data, you must know the right source and pay some fees. I found out that the breakthroughs that I needed were published in a book, which was not yet for sale in my country. Moreover, even if I’d had it delivered, it would be too late by the time it arrived at my doorstep. I felt really uptight (anxious) about it, but suddenly I thought of a solution.
So, I decided to contact my former host family in the US to ask them to buy a hard copy then have the specific information scanned and emailed to me. It took some time but eventually, I got the data in time. It was a bit of a hassle (something time-consuming) for my host family, so I decided to buy him a small gift in return.
Part 3
What influence does the internet have on people (individually), and society?
Well, for one, before the internet people interacted much more when meeting up and going out together, now you see people glued to (always looking at) their phone screens. Their focus is on their social media apps looking at what their friends and family are doing through photos and status updates, rather than actually talking to them. Communication is mostly through social media, with instant chat, cutting the need for face-to-face meetings. On the other hand, the internet has had a positive impact on society because now we can accomplish much more in a shorter time frame. Moreover, people can access information much quicker through google for example, so it creates a generation of well-informed people. Because of this, I believe that our future is very bright.
Do you think libraries will disappear one day?
I think this could be a possibility, as people are beginning to think that libraries are redundant (unnecessary), as the information is also available online. With devices such as E-books, Kindles, Amazon, etc., it’s normal to question how much longer libraries will last. For example, I never use the library because I see it as a hassle to have to check out the book and return it when I could just buy a used copy for next to nothing online from Amazon or borrow it from a friend. However, I still believe that a lot of people like to utilize libraries for the tangible value of holding a book in their hand and having a quiet, serene place to study; libraries have always been a staple to our academic world. So, with all of this said, I think libraries will stay around for at least the next 20 years.
What do people use the internet for?
Pretty much everything! Nowadays, there are countless apps at our fingertips to accomplish all of our tasks. For example, we use the internet to do research, pay our bills, find a dating match, go shopping, make phone calls, find jobs, chat with friends, find workout videos, etc. The better question would be what we don’t use the internet for nowadays. To be honest, I can’t think of any area of life where we don’t use the internet.
Would you say many people waste time “surfing the internet”?
For sure! Nowadays, the average person spends hours surfing the internet each day. Take me for example. My phone has recorded that I spend an average of 2-3 hours a day surfing the web on my phone, not to mention the 6 hours I’m constantly connected to it to carry out my work tasks. In some respects, it’s very useful to google things that you may be curious about throughout the day, but many people spend time surfing Instagram or Facebook watching the lives of people they don’t even know, which is a 100% waste of time in my opinion.
How do you think people will be using the internet in 10 years (time)?
That’s a great question! It’s difficult to imagine this, but I would imagine we will continue to use it in all the respects that we do nowadays, but even at a more elevated level. For example, I’ve often speculated that we will have hologram images instead of video chats. On the other hand, I have a feeling that the online classroom will soon replace the traditional classroom. When it comes to the work world, I imagine that even more jobs will become remote. All in all, the world will continue to advance technologically.
Describe a historical period you are interested in
You should say:
- what the historical period is
- how you know it
- what happened during that period
- why you find it interesting
I’m going to tell you about the Spanish conquest of the Incas, as I studied Latin American History at University. Simply put, The Incas always left me in awe (amazed). Furthermore, this has always been an important subject to me, because the Incas made groundbreaking (amazing, new) achievements in mathematics, architecture, astronomy, and art. When I analyze (deeply study) the Spanish conquest, I reflect on the Inca’s historical significance, which has persevered despite the loss of the civilization. This has really moved (had an emotional affect) me. Now that you know why I’m fond of (like) this, let me give you a summary of the ins and outs (details) of their story.
During this period, between 1532 and 1574, Spanish and Inca nobles brutally (bloody, cruel) fought for dominance in the region. The Spaniards believed that they should rule and that their moral beliefs were superior to the Incas. The Incas fought to protect their home territory. However, this is a complicated period in history, because many indigenous subjects joined the Spaniards in these battles. They saw red (to be angry) when it came to the Inca rule. The extra help ultimately led the Spanish to victory. I find this period fascinating because we can learn a lot from it in the present; you can clearly see the correlation (relationship). Many scholars would like to know more about the Inca past, but learn very little because colonial Spanish writings are often dismissive (don’t accept) of Inca technology, and we don’t have Inca writings to help us understand them better. All in all, we learn that there are tragic historical consequences of colonial conquests, and we hope to learn from them in the present.
Describe a film you would like to share with your friend.
You should say:
- What it is
- Where you watched it
- Who you watched it with
- And why you want to share it with your friend
Well, there are a few films that can actually catch my attention, one of those being “Green Planet”. It is two hours of action being taken to save the planet. I first watched this film alone, and have since shared it with my family members and friends.
This award-winning film helped me to have a very conscious mind about food and trash reduction. That is why every time I have a new friend coming to my house, I show them the film and at the end of it, we discuss it. So, this movie has been very transformative not only to my own life but also in the lives of my family and friends.
I decided to share it with my friends because the director has an unmatchable way of explaining it in a way that everyone can understand. Furthermore, he uses stories in the film that undeniably make the viewer feel empathy about the planet. In conclusion, this film is one of a kind (unique).
Part 3
Which kinds of films are popular in your country?
In my country, action movies are most popular, as we love the way people solve their problems in a very fanciful way. We always crave movies of people hanging off a plane or saving the planet, maybe to add color to our lives. Sometimes I wish that fantasy was all true!
Why do you think people like watching films?
People like watching films because they feel part of the story, they feel like they’re saving the world and conquering a new galaxy, this is what makes it so special. Furthermore, it is a way to pass time to unwind (relax) by ourselves and even spend time with others. But still, all in all, it’s a great escape from the ordinary world.
Do you think films have changed since you were a child? How?
Films have developed so much lately, in particular, fantasy films, the level of detail makes them look so realistic. I can remember that films were very unrealistic during my childhood, which even makes me laugh looking back now. For example, the movie IT is comical now due to outdated technology. Furthermore, I think films have become more psychological and terrifying.
As the technology for home viewing improves, do you think people will stop going to the cinema in the future?
I don’t think it will stop people from going to the cinemas. This is due to the quality of sounds and images also, going to the cinema is the whole experience by itself. I think there will always be a certain charm about the cinema, whether it’s a date on a rainy date or a family activity to do. Perhaps more people watch movies on their big screens on their TV nowadays, but they still go to the cinema quite frequently.
توضیحات کلی در مورد اسپیکینگ آیلتس
خبر خوب برای داوطلبین آزمون آیلتس این است که بیشتر سوالات بخش دوم در محدوده خاصی از موضوعات قرار دارند. سوالاتی مانند شخصی که برای اولین بار دیدهاید یا بهترین مکانی که تا به حال رفتهاید و از این قبیل سوالات به مراتب در آزمون توسط examiners پرسیده میشوند. داوطلبین باید خود را برای پاسخگویی به این دست سوالات آماده کنند. اگر میخواهید نمره 7 در اسپیکینگ آیلتس کسب کنید، دایرهلغات و ایدههای جذاب را در خود تقویت کنید و سوالات اخیر بخش اسپیکینگ آیلتس را بخوانید.
ما تمام سعی خود را کردهایم که تمامی سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس را در این مقاله جمعآوری کنیم تا داوطلبین آیلتس بتوانند به راحتی نمره دلخواه خودشان را بدست آورند. تمامی پاسخهای آمده در سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس، از کتاب اکچوال (سایت آیلتس متریال) آمده است.
از جمله تکنیک های اسپیکینگ آیلتس، به خاطر سپردن صفاتی است که برای هر دستهبندی میتوان استفاده کرد. با این کار شما می توانید سوالات مربوط به اشخاص، مکانها، اشیاء، حوادث، فعالیتها، علایق را به سادهگی پاسخ دهید.
سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس با جواب پارت دوم؟
در بخش دوم شما باید 2 دقیقه در مورد یک موضوع خاص صحبت کنید. ممتحن یک task card به اضافه یک قلم و کاغذ جهت آماده سازی برای یادداشت کردن یک دقیقهای به شما میدهد. شما باید بر اساس مباحث روی کارت، یک گفتگوی کوتاه انجام بدهید، جمعاً حدود 3 دقیقه طول میکشد. (آماده سازی 1 دقیقه و 2 دقیقه صحبتکردن) کارت از شما میخواهد که موضوعی را توصیف کنید. این یک کار مبتنی بر موضوع است، امتحان کننده ممکن است در پایان 2 دقیقه سؤال پیگیری را مطرح کند.
داشتن استراتژی در این بخش از Speaking بسیار مهم است، زیرا 2 دقیقه مدت طولانی برای صحبت بدون توقف است. یک راه آسان، استفاده از دستهبندی سایمون است. به یاد داشته باشید که شما باید گفتگوی خود را توسعه دهید، این موضوع برای اخذ نمره 7 یا بیشتر بسیار مهم است.
چه سوالاتی در پارت 3 اسپیکینگ آیلتس پرسیده می شود؟
بخش سوم جایی است که شما باید با جزئیات بیشتری صحبت کنید. ممکن است مجبور شوید نظر خود را بیان کنید و دلایل و نمونههایی با عمق بیشتری به پاسخهای خود اضافه کنید. سوالات به قسمت دوم وصل میشوند. این قسمت از آزمون حدود 5 دقیقه طول میکشد.
در بخش سوم IELTS Speaking ، باید پاسخ خود را توسعه و یک مثال خاص برای دفاع از ایده خود ارائه دهید. مباحث قسمت اول مربوط به شما و زندگی شما است و نیازی به پاسخ خیلی طولانی ندارند. اما، مباحث بخش سوم گستردهتر است و شما باید پاسخ بسیار طولانیتری بدهید. بخش سوم سوالات اخیر اسپیکینگ آیلتس به صورت کامل در این مقاله قرار داده شده است.
پیش بینی سوالات اسپیکینگ آیلتس
Describe a friend who is a good leader
You should say,
- who this person is
- how you know them
- how they behaved
- and explain why you think they are a good leader
(who this person is) (how you know them) Some people are born influential. They have a knack of dealing with people. I believe it is inborn. Of course, there are classes conducted to inculcate leadership qualities, but not everybody becomes one. My friend in school, Susan had some special qualities, and I always admired her. We became friends from sixth grade. Her parents worked for the Central Government and were deputed to the southern part of India. So, she joined our school.’
(how they behaved) She was exceptional. She was very sincere in her studies and was also very good at tennis and kho kho. Infact, she was the captain of the kho kho team. She was very helpful and was always ready to lend her notebooks when someone who was on leave asked for them. When students struggling in math approached her, she would gladly help. She never lied. She also helped the teachers carry the pile of notebooks to the staff room. She was appointed as the leader of the class. We became thick friends and are in touch till date.
(explain why you think they are a good leader) If someone could become a leader of a class in sixth grade, they could definitely become the school pupil leader in twelfth grade, and she did become one, but in another school. She could motivate people and get things done from them. She was a doer with a positive attitude. If someone could be a leader of a school, I believe that they can definitely climb the leadership ladder in any field that they choose.
VOCABULARY
Influential (adj) – having great influence on someone or something.
Eg: Tony was a very influential person in ABC company.
Inborn (adj) – natural to a person or animal.
Eg: Linda had an inborn talent for painting.
Captain (noun) – the leader of a team, especially in sports.
Eg: Jane was the captain of the basketball team.
Doer (noun) – a person who acts rather than merely talking or thinking.
Eg: Jack was a doer.
Leadership (noun) – the action of leading a group of people or an organization.
Eg: She soon reached the leadership position in ABC company.
Part 3
1. Who is the head of the family in your culture?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Generally, the oldest male is the head of the family. But in cases of death of the male, the oldest female becomes the head.
2. Are men better at decision making in a family?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Usually, older people are considered to be good at making decisions because of their experience and wisdom. It includes older men and women in the family. Also, there is no scientific evidence that men are good decision-makers. Women are equally good at making good decisions. In fact, it depends on how much knowledge they have on a particular topic. (Give an example) For example, if the wife is a chartered accountant, she may make better decisions w.r.t making investments.
3. Do you think that in the future there will be more women leaders?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Women are indeed encouraged more. As society is supportive, there may be more women leaders. Also, there are reservations for women in every field. (Give an example) For example, corporate companies and major investment banks have made it mandatory to have at least a few women leaders on board.
4. Should a leader discuss with team members when making decisions?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, of course. (Explain your reason or reasons) Every team member must be consulted before arriving at a conclusion. But the leader should also have a hold on his/her team members. The leader must not let anyone dominate him. The leader’s decision should be final; however, the opposition it may face. In fact, the leader should be able to convince everyone.
5. How do you see a leader now and in the future?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Leadership qualities remain the same, whether it is past, present, or future. A good leader will have admirable traits like honesty, integrity, helpfulness. So, there would not be much difference between leaders now and in the future. In fact, as we take examples from leaders of our past, so would the future generations.
Vocabulary:
Wisdom (noun) – the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; the quality of being wise.
Eg: He listened to his grandfather’s words of wisdom.
Topic (noun) – a matter dealt with in a text, discourse, or conversation; a subject.
Eg: She spoke spontaneously on the topic given.
Reservations (noun) – the action of reserving something. [Reserving (verb) – arrange for (a room, seat, ticket, etc.) to be kept for the use of a particular person].
Eg: Some colleges have reservations for scheduled tribes.
Have a hold (phrase) – Have a controlling influence over.
Eg: Ashley’s father had a hold on her.
Convince (verb) – persuade (someone) to do something.
Eg: The doctor convinced the patient for surgery.
Describe the person you spend the most time with
You should say,
- who this person is?
- what kind of person he or she is?
- what you usually do together
- and explain why you spend the most time with this
(who this person is) I love my Dad. I spend the most time with him. Though I have moved to the UK, after my graduation, we exploit the internet to the fullest. I chat with him on WhatsApp, Skype and also over a prepaid calling card.
(what kind of person he or she is) He is a warm person full of love for me. Though he is friendly, he never hesitated to advise me on important things. He would be so kind to the extent that he won’t even hurt the ants that bit him hard. He never pressured me to score high marks. His helping tendency was well known in our area. He always got the best things for me, from bags to dresses and books.
(what you usually do together) We used to take long walks and play carrom whenever we got together. He did pay a visit to the UK. But I could see that he had become old. Though he couldn’t walk for a long time, he never complained about it. He was careful not to let me know of his illnesses. But I figured out that his left arm had a problem.
(explain why you spend the most time with this person) He is my friend and guide. I feel easy to confide anything with him. He would advise me from the bottom of his heart. His sense of humour would lighten even the toughest moment. I used to talk to him about my career plans and get his opinion on it. As a retired banker, he taught me how to invest money. And the list is never-ending.
VOCABULARY
Friendly (adj) – kind and pleasant.
Eg: Ken was a friendly person.
Complained (verb) – express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something.
Eg: Sara always complained of the chilliness during winters.
Confide (verb) – tell someone about a secret or private matter while trusting them not to repeat it to others.
Eg: The boss confided the company secrets with Jim.
Sense of humour (noun) – a person’s ability to perceive humour or appreciate a joke.
Eg: Tom had a great sense of humour.
Part 3
1. How many generations usually live together in India?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) India did have a joint family system where up to three generations lived together. But it is no more in place. The latest trend is parents living in India and children living in foreign countries. After the death of one parent, the other lives separately or joins their children abroad. In cases where the children are in India, they choose an apartment near their companies, which would usually be on the outskirts of the city, while the parents will be living separately in their home in the city or town.
2. Is it important to visit family members?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, it is very much important to visit family members. (Explain your reason or reasons) Maintaining a bond with the family members is essential because the family defines our identity. They are very supportive during tough times.
3. What are the values of family in your country?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) An Indian family is based on the core principle of sacrificing one’s needs for the welfare of the family. Especially, the mother in the family is an embodiment of sacrifice. It is for this reason that women are regarded with great respect in India. There are also other values like respect for elders, affection towards siblings, etc. (Give an example) For example, it is very common in India for an elder brother to contribute a major share for his sister’s marriage. This would be considered as his duty and will not be repaid.
4. Why is family bonding necessary for happiness in life?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) It is family bonding that ensures happiness in life. The love and affection towards our family members will bestow a sense of security. It also gives us a sense of belongingness.
5. Do you think the support from a friend is different from the support from a family member?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, it is different. (Explain your reason or reasons) There will be a reason for a friend to support you. It may be a win-win situation. But a family will offer support without expecting anything in return. So, support from a family is far more superior than support from a
VOCABULARY
Joint family (noun) – (especially in India) an extended family, typically consisting of three or more generations and their spouses, living together as a single household.
Eg: Sneha married Kalpesh and was living in a joint family.
Tough times (noun) – Times of trouble, struggle, or unhappiness.
Eg: John had a tough time after quitting his job.
Sacrifice (noun) – The act of sacrificing something [ sacrificing (verb) – give up (something valued) for the sake of other considerations].
Eg: Sita was aware of the sacrifices that her mother made.
Duty (noun) – a moral or legal obligation; a responsibility
Eg: Ram considered that it was his duty to provide good education to his children.
Win-win situation(noun) – one that is good for everyone who is involved
Eg: ABC company offered work from home facility because it was a win-win situation for the Company and its employees.
Describe a person who taught you something important
You should say,
- who this person is
- how you know this person
- what this person taught you
- and explain why you think this person taught you something important
(who this person is) (how you know this person) (what this person taught you) I have learnt something from every person I have met. One such interesting thing I learnt from my college mate Lakshmi is to draw mehndi designs. Though it seems simple, you have to work hard to learn the art of drawing minute designs on a human hand with a cone. There may be other perceptions, but I think it is one of the most important things I learnt.
(explain why you think this person taught you something important) It was my cousin’s wedding. She had arranged for a beautician to help her and others with decoration. The wedding was in Dubai. We planned to reach there early in the morning. But due to flight delays, we reached only at 8:00 AM. The beautician was busy draping the wedding saree to my cousin and did not even look at me. I waited. But after draping the saree, she began adjusting the makeup for my cousin. She never got satisfied. She did it over and over again. Time was running out. My cousin seemed to be in a world of her own. Nobody bothered to help me. So I began decorating on my own. I started drawing my own mehndi, which I learnt from Lakshmi. I put on some simple Arabic designs. It came out well. At the wedding, everyone appreciated me for my mehndi. Infact, my cousin’s mum apologised to me for the behaviour of the beautician and gave me special gifts as well.
VOCABULARY
Mehndi (noun) – The English word for “Mehndi” is “Myrtle”. It is a paste obtained from
grinding the leaves of the Myrtle shrub. It is also called, “Henna” or “Heena”.
Eg: Hasina was an expert in drawing mehndi designs.
Beautician (noun) – a person whose job is to give people beauty treatment
Eg: Shahnaz was a famous beautician in Delhi.
Drape (verb) – arrange (cloth or clothing) loosely or casually on or round something.
Eg: She draped a georgette saree on her own.
Makeup (noun) – cosmetics such as lipstick or powder applied to the face, used to enhance or alter the appearance
Eg: The actress wore heavy makeup.
Appreciated (verb) – recognize the full worth of.
Eg: The teacher appreciated the student for scoring full marks in maths.
Part 3
1. What qualities do you think a good teacher should have?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) A good teacher should be skilled in her field. He/She should concentrate more on children who don’t perform well. They should be impartial and patient. They should pay individual attention to every student, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and encourage them to pursue their strengths. (Give an example) For example, a student who isn’t good in academics may be talented in sports. The teacher must encourage the student to excel in sports.
2. Who do you think can learn better? Older people or youngsters?
(Give a direct answer to the question) In my opinion, youngsters can perform better. (Explain your reason or reasons) They are good at grasping things. Older people may have developed some health complications, which would make them take more time to learn something new. But again, it varies from person to person. Few older people are healthy and compete with young people in learning new things. But a majority of them learn slowly.
3. What do you think is the best age for children to go to school?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) I think 5 is the right age to admit a child to school. 3 or 4 would be too early for the young brain to learn Language and arithmetic. At 5, learning would not be a burden to them. They will look forward to going to school.
4. What do you think parents should teach their children?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Parents should teach moral values. (Explain your reason or reasons) They should be taught to share things with others, respect elders, be friendly, and be truthful. They should also train their children to get up on time, wear uniforms and shoes by themselves, keep things in the proper place after usage. They should also help with the homework.
5. Do you think children can learn anything from other children?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, they do. (Explain your reason or reasons) (Give an example) For example, one of my friends’ kids resisted drinking milk at home. But when a friend in the physical training class told him that he stayed active because of drinking milk, this kid also started drinking milk. Friends influence them more than their parents.
VOCABULARY
Impartial (Adj) – treating all rivals or disputants equally.
Eg: Judges are supposed to be impartial.
Majority (noun) – the greater number.
Eg: The political party won with a thumping majority.
Look forward (noun) – to feel pleased and excited about something that is going to happen
Eg: She looked forward to the birthday party.
Homework (noun) – schoolwork that a pupil is required to do at home.
Eg: The teacher told Seema that she must allow her child to do the homework on her own.
Resisted (verb) – try to prevent by action or argument.
Eg: The opposition resisted the government on its decision to provide subsidies to the poor.
Describe a person who is good at his or her job
You should say,
- who this person is
- How do you know them
- What this person does
- And explain why this person is good at his / her
(who this person is) ( how do you know them) (what this person does) In every field, some people stand apart. My cousin is one such person. She is an English professor at the Holy Cross College, Bangalore. She was weak in math when she was in school. She never got disheartened because of it. She graduated in English Literature and pursued a Masters in it. She later finished her research and is now a visiting Professor at Harvard. She has got bright chances to settle abroad.
(explain why this person is good at her job) She works hard. She is innovative and creative. She has been a key factor in establishing a language lab at her college. She has also paid visits to many colleges within India and gained immense knowledge on the methodology of the study of the English Language. She has been to many schools and observed the students. She has produced many research papers on the language. She is very famous in her college among the student community. The one thing they admire in her is that she spends more time with people who struggle to learn the language. She conducts phonetics classes in the evening, for those interested. She also does social work by associating herself with the NGOs. They teach English to poor people, free of cost. She has taught English to children in the slums as well. Though many students don’t opt for arts, she boldly pursued it and has proved herself in the field.
VOCABULARY
Professor (noun) – a teacher of the highest academic rank in a college or university, who has been awarded the title Professor in a particular branch of learning.
Eg: Raman was a Physics Professor at Stanford university.
Innovative (adj) – (of a person) introducing new ideas
Eg: Rex was famous as an innovative artist.
Admire (verb) – regard with respect or warm approval.
Eg: Indira Gandhi was admired for her courage.
Prove oneself (phrase) – to show that one is able to do something or to succeed.
Eg: Hilary proved herself in Politics.
Part 3
1. How should new workers perform in their first jobs?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Be it any industry, new workers should work hard. They must be patient enough to learn the skills. They must be punctual. Nowadays, companies have smart cards to detect how many hours a person spends inside the premises. New workers should ensure that they don’t default in all these areas. They should also be diligent in their work. Over a period of time, these qualities will help them to succeed.
2. How can workers improve their work performance?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Workers must continuously upskill themselves. They must attend various training sessions related to their field. For example, a computer software professional must use the training and seminars that his/her Company offers.
This will also help him/her to understand where they stand in terms of their technology. If there are any updates in their current technology, they must be aware of them.
3. What jobs are well paid in India?
(Give a direct answer to the question (Explain your reason or reasons) IT sectors and investment banks pay well. Nurses and teachers also receive a good pay package. Jobs that involve creativity, like designing and advertising, are also paid well. The marketing sector is also booming nowadays. So, there are chances that they might pay well.
4. What jobs are poorly paid in your country?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) People who live on daily wages are not paid well. This includes people working in quarries, janitors, plumbers, electricians, workers who handle human waste, or sewage.
5. If someone is bored with their job, is it easy for them to change to a different job?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Absolutely, yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) There are so many opportunities nowadays. Also, there are a lot of companies. Especially, people in the IT sector switch jobs often. (Give an example) For example, my friend, who was working on Java for five years in a company, got bored with it. So, she learnt a new update in her technology called Spring boot. Later she moved to an IT division of an investment bank and is quite happy to be there.
VOCABULARY
Default (verb) – fail to fulfill an obligation, especially to repay a loan or to appear in a law court.
Eg: It is for the third time that the bank warned Tom not to default in payments
Seminars (noun) – a conference or other meeting for discussion or training.
Eg: Ram attended all the seminars on his technology.
Creativity (noun) – the use of imagination or original ideas to create something; inventiveness.
Eg: The manager was keen to encourage creativity.
Wages (noun) – a fixed regular payment earned for work or services, typically paid on a daily or weekly basis.
Eg: The workers did not receive wages for the day.
Update (noun) – an act of updating something or someone or an updated version of something.
Eg: There was a new update on the recently published tax rates.
Describe a family member who you spend the most time with
You should say:
- Who is this person?
- What kind of person he /she is?
- What do you usually do together?
- And explain why you spend the most time with him/her?
(Who this person is) I feel blessed to have a great family which made unparalleled contributions to help me go ahead.
Among them, my father’s impact is the most meaningful, and I treasure our quality time together.
(What kind of person he /she is?) He is the person whom I love most in this world, and I consider him to be a perfect father and husband with his upbeat disposition, resourcefulness and responsibility. My father is an exemplary person who has led an honest life. As a high-ranking government officer, he has had many chances to pile up the riches, but he always stood by the truth and never broke the rules.
(What do you usually do together?) From my childhood, he has dedicated much time to raising me with great care, affection and mentorship. When I was young, he taught me moral lessons about the world, inspirational people and values and also the necessary skills. No matter how preoccupied with work, he always tried to give wholehearted support to my education, especially with my activities at school. When we were together, he frequently discussed plans for the future and encouraged me to challenge myself to step out of my comfort zones.
(And explain why you spend the most time with him/her?) As a father, I would say he has done everything possible to raise my sister and me. He spent his entire life catering to our interests and demands. The basics of humanity and the importance of education were the values he delivered to me. We get on very well with each other, and I enjoy his company. Our times together have always been insightful and full of joy.
Vocabulary from Relationship:
to get on well with
Meaning: to understand someone and enjoy similar interests
Example: We all get on really well and have a lot in common so we’re always happy doing the
same things and going to the same places
to enjoy someone’s company
Meaning: to like spending time with someone
Example: I think we enjoy each other’s company so we rarely fall out with each other.
Other vocabularies:
unparalleled [adj]: better than all others.
Eg: He had a talent unparalleled by any other politician in this country.
phenomenon [n]: something that exists and can be seen, felt, tasted, etc., especially something unusual or interesting.
Eg: Do you believe in the paranormal and other psychic phenomena?
upbeat [adj]: full of hope, happiness, and good feelings.
Eg: Live music and a parade set an upbeat mood for the official opening.
resourcefulness [n]: the ability to be good at finding ways of doing things and solving problems.
Eg: Resourcefulness is an essential quality for a good employee.
exemplary [adj]: providing a good example for somebody to copy.
Eg: Minh is the most exemplary student in our class this semester.
affection [n]: the feeling of liking or loving something/somebody very much.
Eg: Children nowadays need a lot of attention and affection.
inspirational [adj]: making you feel full of hope or encouraged.
Eg: He gave an inspirational reading of his own poems.
whole-hearted [adj]: completely enthusiastic.
Eg: The minister has pledged his wholehearted support for the plans.
comfort zone [expression]: a situation in which you feel comfortable and in which your ability and determination are not being tested.
Eg: Rock climbing pushes many people beyond their comfort zones.
perspiration [n]: the process of sweating.
Eg: He failed to do this, but found that shed blood and perspiration had no more attraction for females than had water.
insightful [adj]: having or showing an accurate and deep understanding; perceptive.:sâu sắc
Eg: This is a very thoughtful, insightful analysis.
PART 3: FAMILY
1. What are the benefits of younger and older generations living together? How about the drawbacks?
(Give a direct answer to the question) In terms of the advantages, we can see that the presence of older family members will ease the burden of raising kids. (Explain your reason or reasons) In large families, there are more connections and interactions between family members. Besides, grandparents could also teach valuable lessons and essential manners to their children. (Give an example (often a personal example)) However, there exist some generation gaps when three generations live together, which sometimes increases the tension between family members.
Nowadays, as life is becoming increasingly modernized, especially in hectic cities, only parents and children can live together.
2. Which do you prefer, support from family members or friends? Why?
(Give a direct answer to the question) My family. (Explain your reason or reasons) You can have many friends, but your family members are irreplaceable. Friends can come and go at different stages of your life like secondary school, high school, university, but it is your family who never abandons you no matter what happens. (Explain the opposite or alternative) Yet, your friends’ support is a crucial factor that leads to your personal growth. (Give an example (often a personal example)) From my experience, good friends are especially important during times of crisis and turbulence. When I find myself going through a hard time, my closest friend never failed to cheer me up and sailed me through both emotional and academic setbacks.
Vocabulary:
burden [n]: a duty that causes worry, difficulty or hard work.
Eg: I don’t want to become a burden to my family when I’m old.
valuable [adj]: very useful or important.
Eg: The book provides valuable information on recent trends.
tension [n]: a situation when people do not trust each other, or feel unfriendly towards each other.
Eg: There is mounting tension in the company.
hinder [v]: to make it difficult for somebody to do something or something to happen.
Eg: There is a political situation that hinders economic growth.
modernize [v]: to make something more modern and more suitable for use at the present time.
Eg: The factory is investing more money to modernize its facilities.
hectic [adj]: very busy, full of activity.
Eg: Ho Chi Minh is a very hectic city.
irreplaceable [adj]: cannot be replaced.
Eg: Her position in his heart is irreplaceable.
abandon [v]: to leave somebody, especially somebody you are responsible for.
Eg: The baby had been abandoned by its heartless mother.
turbulence [n]: a state of confusion without any order.
Eg: The era was characterized by political and cultural turbulence.
setback [n]: something that happens that delays or prevents a process from developing.
Eg: There has been a slight/temporary setback in our plans.
Describe a time when someone apologized to you
You should say:
- When it was
- Who this person is
- Why he or she apologized to you
- How you felt about it
(When it was and who this person is) Apologizing is a part of good manners, and I believe that it helps to alleviate many bothersome situations happening in everyday life. In several events, others have apologized to me but the apology from my closest friend, Linh, was the most significant to me. It happened a few months ago, when my father presented me with two movie tickets, as an incentive for achieving full scores in the English exam. The compelling trailer of this movie captured my attention right away, and I knew that I should enjoy it with my best friend. Unhesitatingly, I decided to invite Linh, and we quickly made an appointment for the cinema before 6 pm.
(Why he or she apologized to you) As scheduled previously, Linh was supposed to show up at the cinema at 5:30, but somehow she did not. I did give her so many rings, but she did not answer them. I kept waiting until 6 pm but in vain. In the heat of the moment, I lost my temper and furiously left her a message, saying how disappointed I was with her and asked whether she respected our relationship. A day later, Linh sent a heartfelt apology to me. She explained that on that day, her younger brother was disturbed by a severe eating disorder, and she had to take care of him at the hospital. Because the incident was so sudden and unexpected, she was too nervous about taking the phone with her and was unable to contact me. Linh hoped that I could understand and sympathize with her.
(How you felt about it) Honestly, I felt a little guilty for being too aggressive while knowing nothing about her situation. From this incident, I also understand that everything happens for a reason. We should not jump to a conclusion without careful consideration. Besides, sincere apologies are indeed an indication of respect for the relationship.
Vocabulary from Personality:
to lose one’s temper:
Meaning: to suddenly become angry
Example: You should not lose your temper in situations like that.
Other vocabularies:
pacify [v]: to make somebody who is angry or upset become calm and quiet.
Eg: The speech was designed to pacify the irate crowd.
bothersome [adj]: special, good or unusual and therefore worth remembering or easy to remember.
Eg: This is a truly memorable occasion for all people involved.
incentive [n]: something that encourages you to do something.
Eg: In my country, there is literally no incentive for people to save fuel.
give somebody a ring [expression]: phone somebody.
Eg: Minh promised to give me a ring as soon as he came home.
in the heat of the moment [expression]: be in the moment of strong feelings, especially of anger or excitement.
Eg: In the heat of the moment, Linda forgot what she wanted to say to her mother.
furiously [adv]: in an angry way.
Eg: All the architects worked furiously during the week, complaining that their wages were unsatisfactory.
heartfelt [adj]: showing strong feelings that are sincere.
Eg: In the ceremony, the director expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the employees, who worked diligently on the project.
sympathize with [v]: to feel sorry for somebody; to show that you understand and feel sorry about somebody’s problem .
Eg: The reporter sympathized with the victim, because she herself has undergone such similar unhappy experiences.
jump to a conclusion [expression]: to make a decision about something/ somebody too quickly, before you know or have thought about all the facts.
Eg: The police neglectfully overlooked the situation and jumped to the conclusion that he was guilty.
indication [n]: a remark or sign that shows that something is happening or what somebody is thinking or feeling.
Eg: Obviously, there are indications that the economy of this nation is improving.
PART 3: APOLOGIZE
1. On what occasion do people usually apologize to others?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, sometimes people apologize when realizing that they may have hurt another individual (i.e., physically, emotionally, mentally) by accident.
A sincere apology allows you to let people know you’re not proud of what you did, and won’t be repeating the behaviour. (Give an example (often a personal example)) For example, whenever I lose my temper and misbehave, I send an apology to them.
2. Do people in your country like to say “sorry”?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, not very often (Explain your reason or reasons) I assume it’s not a part of our culture. (Give an example (often a personal example)) From my experience, Japanese people are more inclined to say sorry. Apologizing is built into the Japanese language. Japanese people have it in their blood; they apologize all the time, even when it’s not their fault. It’s almost like a reflex, but it’s not, because I could see the emotion in my Japanese friends’ eyes every time they apologized to me. They do it even if they touch you by mistake or have their back turned at you without being willing to.
3. Do you think people should apologize for anything wrong they do?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, I do. (Explain your reason or reasons) If something you’ve done has caused pain for another person, it’s a good idea to apologize, even if your action was unintentional. This is because apologizing opens up the doors to communication, which allows you to reconnect with the person who was hurt. In these ways, being adept at apologizing when appropriate can bring the benefits that come with stronger relationships, reduced conflict, and forgiveness—it’s well worth the effort.
Vocabulary from Personality:
to lose one’s temper:
Meaning: to suddenly become angry
Example: You should not lose your temper in situations like that.
Other vocabularies:
inappropriately [adv]: in a way that is unsuitable, or wrong in a particular situation.
Eg: There is nothing to suggest the attorney acted inappropriately in the case.
(be) inclined to [adj]: likely or wanting to do something.
Eg: No one seemed inclined to help.
reflex [n]: a physical reaction to something that you cannot control.
Eg: I’m sorry I punched him; it was a reflex action/response.
unintentional [adj]: not done on purpose.:
Eg: There’s an unintentional feeling of sadness in Woody Allen’s latest comedy.
adept [adj]: having a natural ability to do something that needs skill.
Eg: She’s very adept at dealing with the media.
worth the effort [expression]: If you say that something is worth the effort, you mean that it will justify the energy that you have spent or will spend on it.
Eg: Fortunately, the chore of leaf sweeping is well worth the effort.
Describe a time you do not tell your friend the truth
You should say
- What happened
- Why you did not tell the truth
- Who you did not tell the truth to
- And explain how you feel about it
(What happened):
Well, I have to say that I am not used to telling lies. I’m not perfect, and indeed, no one is. During my high school days, sitting exams was nerve-wracking, which drove me crazy. However, there was a time I fell behind with my studies and got a D in Chemistry test. Therefore, I was left with no choice but to make up a story
(Why you did not tell the truth):
I had always been a little boy to my parents, especially to my mom, who spoilt me a lot. To live up to my parent’s expectations, I had to study under a lot of pressure to make them proud. I still remember sitting the chemistry exam, and I felt that I was going to fail the test. The moment I received the test result from my teacher, I was anxious. Therefore, I had to lie to my parents so that I could avoid getting punished and letting my parents down.
(Who you did not tell the truth to):
It was my parents to whom I lied. Having known the result, I came home with a nervous look on my face. I informed my parents about my test results immediately. Surprisingly, they believed me without any suspicion. However, my school texted the result to my mother, and they got to know that I had fooled them. I got detention for one week, and I wasn’t allowed to use my mobile phone.
And explain how you feel about it
My parents were pissed off about the lie. Seeing how they reacted to my test result, I wished that I had not lied.
Part 3 questions:
1. Do people in your country judge people when they lie?
Yes, I do think that people will be judged when they lie to someone. Iranian people usually say “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me”, and I believe it is true. For example, if a company fails to make their promises to their counterparts, they are less likely to be chosen for the forthcoming projects.
2. How should we tell if it’s a white lie or not?
Well, there are some ways to find out if a person is telling a white lie. We can focus on their facial expressions. For example, if a person is telling a white lie, their eyes will dart back and forth, which indicates that they are feeling uncomfortable.
3. Is it acceptable to tell white lies?
I think there are times when it is suitable to tell white lies to other people. It is the time when they are asking about something that they like, like their haircut or maybe their makeup. When they think that they are glowing with a new skincare product or are proud of their achievements, we may not be necessarily impressed by it. But we can tell a white lie in those situations.
4. When do people often lie?
There are various reasons why people often lie. However, I think the key reason why they may lie
regularly is that they don’t want to disappoint other people. For example, I lied to my friend about her haircut, which was not great because I was worried that the truth might worsen our relationship.
5. Why do some people keep telling lies?
Maybe because some people consider telling lies an inconsequential issue; therefore, it gradually becomes a habit, and they cannot give up on it. For example, my friend had to lie to her parents about her test results, and day by day, she was accustomed to lying to other people.
VOCABULARY FROM EDUCATION
Sitting exams
Meaning: To take an exam
Example: If my teacher hadn’t convinced me to sit for the SAT, I never would have gotten into college.
Fall behind with your studies
Meaning: to progress less quickly than others
Example: He was ill for six weeks and fell behind with his schoolwork.
OTHER VOCABULARY
Nerve-wracking
Meaning: difficult to do and causes a lot of worry for the person involved in it
Example: My wedding was the most nerve-wracking thing I’ve ever experienced.
Left someone with no choice
Meaning: to make someone feel that they must do something
Example: I was left with no choice but to report him.
To make up something
Meaning: To invent an excuse, a story, etc., often in order to deceive
Example: I was trying to make up a good excuse for being late.
Spoil
Meaning: To treat someone very or too well, especially by being extremely generous Example: When I’m feeling miserable I go shopping and spoil myself – a couple of new dresses always make me feel better.
Live up to something
Meaning: To be as good as something
Example: The concert was brilliant – it lived up to all our expectations.
Punish
Meaning: to cause someone who has done something wrong or committed a crime to suffer, by hurting them, forcing them to pay money, sending them to prison, etc.
Example: He punished the class by giving them extra work.
Let someone down
Meaning: Fail to support or help someone as they had hoped or expected.
Example: I promised Sophie I would meet her and I can’t let her down.
Suspicion
Meaning: doubt or lack of trust
Example: Since they discovered the truth about his background, his colleagues have regarded him with suspicion.
Detention
Meaning: a form of punishment in which children are made to stay at school for a short time after classes have ended
Example: She’s had four detentions this term.
To be pissed off about something Meaning: annoyed
Example: She seemed a bit pissed off that she hadn’t been invited.
“Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me”
Meaning: After being tricked once, one should learn from one’s mistakes and avoid being tricked in the same way again.
Back and forth
Meaning: Moving first in one direction and then in the opposite one
Example: She swayed gently back and forth to the music.
Inconsequential Meaning: Not important
Example: Most of what she said was pretty inconsequential.
To be accustomed to
Meaning: Familiar with something
Example: I’m not accustomed to being treated like this
Describe a road trip you went on
You should say,
- where you went
- who you went with
- what happened on the trip
- And explain how you felt about it
(where you went) (who you went with) One of my friends had bought a new car with a sunroof. We gathered at this place to have a look at it. Suddenly, he volunteered to take all of us to a bird sanctuary located on a mountain. I was a two-hour drive from his place. All of us agreed to the plan. Our plan was to shout out loud by standing on the sunroof. We decided to do this as we moved atop the mountain. I had some fear of heights. But I did agree to the plan.
(what happened on the trip) After about an hour, we reached downhill, had some refreshing tea and headed upwards. Slowly we were going up the mountain. I was able to sense the height. A chill ran down my spine. But it was only a few minutes, and my fears vanished when my friends started talking about the beautiful scenery. As we drove higher up, one of them reminded us of the sunroof. One of them opened it, peeped through it and shouted loudly “Hip Hip Hurray”. One after the other tried it. The car was on the move, though. Then came my turn. I thought I better get the guts to try it out. Initially, it was nervous, but when I peeped out through the sunroof, the beautiful flowers and the soft winds changed my mind. I shouted out loud. Then we tried it in groups of three. There were seven of us altogether. One of them was driving.
(explain how you felt about it) I felt great. My fears vanished. It was a memorable experience. Now that I have gained deep insight into a car with a sunroof, I can advise anyone who wants to buy one.
VOCABULARY
Sunroof (noun) – a panel in the roof of a car that can be opened for extra ventilation.
Eg: He bought a brand new car with a sunroof.
Mountain (noun) – a large natural elevation of the earth’s surface rising abruptly from the surrounding level; a large steep hill.
Eg: He was afraid to drive on the mountains.
Chill ran down my spine (phrase) – used to say that someone feels very thrilled, frightened, etc.
Eg: A chill ran down her spine as she entered the exam hall.
Peeped (verb) – look quickly and furtively at something, especially through a narrow opening.
Eg: She peeped in through the narrow entrance.
Nervous (adj) – easily agitated or alarmed.
Eg: She became nervous on seeing the operation theatre.
Part 3
1. Whу do people need to travel еvеrу day?
(Give a direct answer to the question) They travel for several reasons. (Explain your reason or reasons) The majority of people travel for work. Also, some people travel to buy daily needs like dairy, grocery, etc. People also travel to meet their friends and relatives.
2. Sоmе people ѕау that daily journeys like thеѕе will not be ѕо common іn thе future. Dо уоu agree оr disagree? Why?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Yes, with the ever- advancing technology, companies are heading towards work from home. You will have official meetings conducted online, and physical presence will no longer be required. So, this will largely reduce the daily journeys people make.
3. Can travel make a positive difference to the economy of a country? How?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, travel can make a positive impact on the economy. (Explain your reason or reasons) Notably, there will be a boom in tourism. When it attracts a large number of tourists, it will slowly create opportunities for foreign settlement areas. This will directly impact the foreign relationships with that country, which improves trade agreements, thereby bringing a positive difference to the country’s economy.
4. Is it a good thing that everyone owns cars?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) In advanced countries, everyone owns a car. But it is not good for the environment, and it becomes difficult to regulate traffic as well. Roads become crowded. Besides being a sign of an improved economy of a country, it does not carry any other benefit.
5. Do many families own private cars in your country?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, some families do. (Explain your reason or reasons) But the trend seems to be positive. It is estimated that many families would own private cars soon.
Many people have stable jobs in our country, and hence there is a significant improvement in the lifestyle as well.
VOCABULARY
Daily needs (noun) – The fact of being necessary or indispensable; indispensability
Eg: He found a one-stop store for all his daily needs.
Impact (noun) – a marked effect or influence.
Eg: The saint’s words made an impact on the crowd.
Agreements (noun) – a negotiated and typically legally binding arrangement between parties as to a course of action.
Eg: There was an agreement signed between the two countries on the trade of spices.
Regulate (verb) – control (something, especially a business activity) by means of rules and regulations.
Eg: The council regulates the operation of the institute.
Lifestyle (noun) – the way in which a person lives.
Eg: Yoga made a positive impact on his lifestyle.
Describe a city you have visited and want to go back to in the future
You should say,
- which city it is
- where it is
- what you did there
- And explain why you want to go back
(which city it is ) (where it is) I can say that I have travelled to quite a lot of places. Every summer vacation, we used to go on a trip within India. After I graduated, I moved to the UK and have been to several places here. But there is a sweet haunting city in India, which refuses to move out of my memory. It is Calcutta. Be it patriotism or culture or spirituality; it stands apart. From Rabindranath Tagore to Saurav Ganguly to Satyajit Ray, it has carved a niche for itself in every field. I have visited the city with my parents and friends.
(what you did there) I don’t go to Calcutta as a regular tourist. I go with the aim of exploring something, and it turns out to be marvellous expeditions. First time I went there with my parents, my project was exploring Shantiniketan. I was amazed at the concept of open-air learning. I appreciated the fact that a free mind learns better. Later I visited the same city with my friends when I was in college. This time I explored the Missionaries of charity. I got an autograph from the then Superior General.
(explain why you want to go back) It keeps calling me time and again. I have always wondered why. But I’m not able to find an answer to the question. It may be my passion for History that drives me mad to visit this place often.
VOCABULARY
Travelled (adj) – having travelled to many places. [Travel- verb : make a journey, typically of some length]
Eg: He was widely travelled and was very wise.
Haunting (adj) – bringing strong images, memories, or feelings to mind.
Eg: He had haunting memories of his first wife.
Carved a niche (phrase) – Succeeding, achieving and fulfilling, accomplish.
Eg: She carved a niche for herself in the Literary field.
Passion (noun) – strong and barely controllable emotion
Eg: She had a passion for physics.
Part 3
1. What are some of the problems of long-distance travelling?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Whether you are travelling alone by car or train, you tend to get bored after a while. But if you are travelling with a group of people, be it, friends or family, it makes the travel lively. If in a car, you can plan on the kind of music you need to play while travelling. If there are older people in the group, you need to know how to keep the travel engaging so that they forget their health problems and enjoy the trip.
2. Has the way people travel changed over the last few decades?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, it has changed a lot. (Explain your reason or reasons) The lifestyle of people has improved, and so has the economy of the country. Flight rates have come down, and there are luxury trains and buses introduced. So people travel with better comfort compared to yesteryears.
3. What is the best way to save money while travelling?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) The best way is to research on the internet. You can compare prices between flights, trains, and buses and decide which is the cheapest mode of transport to a particular destination. Also, you need to plan much ahead of travel, so that tickets are available in all modes of transport. Sometimes there may be offers, which may expire if you book tickets at the last moment.
4. What kind of tourist destinations do you usually prefer?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I prefer places with a historical background. (Explain your reason or reasons) I love to explore the work of our ancestors and take a photocopy of all of them. I prefer to go to Konark Sun temple in Odisha, to the jungles in Karnataka, to Rani Gayatri Devi’s Palace in Jaipur, TajMahal in Agra, to name a few. All of them have a rich history associated with them. I got to know about these places from books, newspapers, and magazines.
5. Has a foreign visitor ever stayed at your home?
(Give a direct answer to the question) No, not until now. But I look forward to it, and it will be exciting to have a foreign visitor. (Explain your reason or reasons) The main reason would be because of the number of ideas we can exchange. I will guide him/her about places in India and get to know places of special interest in his or her country. It is exciting when I think of it.
VOCABULARY
Bored (adj) – feeling weary and impatient because one is unoccupied or lacks interest in one’s current activity.
Eg: Tom got bored with playing tennis.
Lively (adj) – intellectually stimulating or perceptive, full of life and energy.
Eg: Sita made the conversation lively.
Luxury (noun)- a state of great comfort or elegance, especially when involving great expense.
Eg: There was a new luxury bus introduced from Punjab to Pakistan.
To name a few (idiom) – To provide only a few examples, though there are copious amounts from which to choose.
Eg: There are many problems in this house. To name a few, the lights are not decorative; there is leakage in the pipes, and there are a lot of mosquitoes.
Eager (adj) – strongly wanting to do or have something.
Eg: The kids were very eager to receive their gifts.
Describe a place you visited that has been affected by pollution.
You should say:
- where it is
- what kind of pollution it has
- what causes pollution
- And explain how you feel about that place
(where it is) A thing of beauty is a joy forever. But it would not be joyful to see the beauty fade in front of your eyes. It so happened to me with the pink city Jaipur in India. It is no more pink. It has turned to some sort of a shade of orange.
(what kind of pollution it has) (what causes pollution) The report published by the World Health Organisation attributes the majority of pollution to the improper channelling of energy from industry and transport sectors, coal-fuelled power plants, desert dust and burning of wastes. The air quality index in Jaipur has come down. The place which was once the abode of English Royals is now strewn with garbage. There are no proper arrangements to sort and dispose of it. There are no strict rules in place for open air emissions. There are no programs to shift to cleaner options for electricity and discontinue the use of coal. The negligence from the government has given the city a pathetic look.
(explain how you feel about that place) I was heartbroken. It did not feel good to see the city in ruins. I was so enraged that I wrote a column in the local newspaper to control the air pollution in Jaipur. I vented out with my friends. I’m hoping that the city will return to its royal pink very soon.
VOCABULARY
Fade (verb) – gradually grow faint and disappear.
Eg: The light faded and there was darkness all over.
Air quality index (phrase) – index for reporting how clean or polluted your air is, and what associated health effects might be a concern for you. For each of these pollutants, EPA has established national air quality standards to protect public health.
Eg: Before moving to a new place it is better to check the air quality index of the place.
Strewn (adj) – untidily scattered
Eg: The place was strewn with dried flowers.
Heartbroken (adj) – suffering from overwhelming distress.
Eg: She was heartbroken on hearing the death news.
Part 3
1. Why do people throw waste materials on roads?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) I think it is due to their laziness and lack of moral responsibility towards safeguarding the environment and the beauty of the city. A large number of people are ignorant about what they are doing to the environment.
2. How can the government encourage people to keep their city clean?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) They can conduct awareness programs. The program must reach all kinds of people in a city. They can make advertisements and as well as circulate videos on YouTube and Facebook. The program should tell
the people the current state of the city. Also, it must project how the city will look like in another ten years if they do and don’t follow cleanliness standards.
3. What do you think? Is it a good idea or a bad idea to establish limited factories in a city?
(Give a direct answer to the question) It is a very good idea to restrict the number of factories in a city. (Explain your reason or reasons) As the government is responsible for reducing global warming effects, controlling pollution, and maintaining the air quality index in a place, they should enforce strict rules in place regarding the establishment of factories.
4. What kinds of pollution are serious in your country?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) We have almost all kinds of pollution. Air pollution is due to fuel emissions by vehicles and factories. Water pollution is caused when factories let out their waste products to nearby water bodies.
5. What can individuals do to protect our environment?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) As the literacy rate is increasing, most of them are aware of the disaster caused by plastics. So, they can shift to some environmentally friendly products. Now that the government has officially banned it, people have no choice. But even otherwise, any small effort towards protecting the environment should be voluntarily taken by every individual like not littering on roads and using eco-friendly modes of transport.
VOCABULARY
Moral responsibility (noun) – the status of morally deserving praise, blame, reward, or punishment for an act or omission performed or neglected in accordance with one’s moral obligations. Deciding what counts as “morally obligatory” is a principal concern of ethics.
Eg: Everyone has moral responsibility towards reducing global warming.
Standards (noun) – a level of quality or attainment.
Eg: Ram had set high standards for the project.
Enforce (verb) – cause (something) to happen by necessity or force.
Eg: The sports committee enforced strict laws for its players.
Literacy (noun) – the ability to read and write.
Eg: Kerala is a state which has a high literacy rate.
Disaster (noun) – an event or fact that has unfortunate consequences.
Eg: There are many disasters caused by releasing industrial effluents into water bodies.
Describe a school you went to in your childhood
You should say,
- where it was
- What it was like
- What the teachers were like
- and explain how you felt about
(where it was) (what it was like) The first thing that strikes you when you talk about childhood is your school. I studied in “ABC Matriculation”, Chennai. It was one of the top schools in the area. The school was in CIT Nagar, Chennai, which was a kerala settlement. The school had a huge square area of concrete road at the entrance with a stage at its end. There were also tall Ashoka trees near the entrance. There were separate buildings for primary and secondary students.
(what the teachers were like) Most of the high school teachers were kerala christians. For pre primary classes, we had Anglo Indian teachers. The Vice-Principal was from Calcutta. Great importance was given to English. The teachers were dedicated to their work. Be it Science or Math or English, the classes were very interesting. The teachers were skilled in their respective fields. Apart from Academics, they encouraged students to participate in skits, elocutions and dramas. We also had science exhibitions, once in a year. They created an atmosphere, very conducive to learning.
(explain how you felt about it) I feel proud to have studied at ABC. After schooling, when I was thrown out into the world, I realized the importance of English. My teachers were right in emphasizing its importance, from childhood. I feel blessed to have attended this school. I owe all my achievements to my dear teachers.
VOCABULARY
Childhood (noun) – the state or period of being a child.
Eg: He spent most of his childhood with his grandmother.
Primary school (noun) – a school for children between the ages of about five and eleven.
Eg: There was a primary school being established in Dehradun
Secondary school (noun) – a high school or a school of corresponding grade, ranking between a primary school and a college or university.
Eg: Jim was required to fill details of marks secured in his secondary school, in his college application.
Owe (verb) – be under a moral obligation to give someone (gratitude, respect, etc.).
Eg: She owed a lot to her mother.
Part 3
1. What is the difference between being taught by teachers and being taught by AI?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) AI or Artificial Intelligence has its advantages. Through AI education is made possible in remote corners of the world. But a teacher has unique qualities that AI cannot replace. Teachers can give individual attention to a student and identify his/her weak and strong areas. But AI will just let the student know if his answer is right or wrong.
2. What’s the difference between the present and the past teachers?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) In ancient times, India had the Gurukul system where a student stays in the Gurukula or Ashram as a hosteler without paying any fee but offering services. The Guru was treated with great respect, and they got trained in almost all aspects of life. (Give an example) For example, students would not only be trained in studies but also archery, boxing, etc. But in the present day, schools are money minded and teachers too. They teach for what they are paid. Students also are not very affectionate towards them.
3. What are the most common types of schools in India?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) In India, there are many types of schools. Most common among them are the CBSE or Central Board of Secondary Education, ICSE or Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, IB or Indian Baccalaureate, and Matriculation systems.
4. Which do you think is more important: primary school education or university education?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Undoubtedly, it is a primary school education. (Explain your reason or reasons) It lays the foundation for a student. A student may or may not be able to pursue University education. But it is mandatory to know how to read and write without errors and know the basic concepts of Mathematics and Science, failing which survival would become very
5. Do you think young people today are burdened with study?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) But it is because the world is getting very competitive and they need that syllabi to cope with the world. It is true that they are burdened, but there is no choice. They have to go through this to be able to become successful citizens of the world.
VOCABULARY
Artificial intelligence(noun) – the theory and development of computer systems able to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition decision-making, and translation between languages.
Eg: Nowadays, Artificial Intelligence is used in agriculture and farming.
Gurukula(noun) – a type of education system in ancient India with shishya (‘students’ or ‘disciples’) living near or with the Guru, in the same house. The word gurukula is a combination of the Sanskrit words guru (‘teacher’ or ‘master’) and kula (‘family’ or ‘home’).
Eg: It is believed that Gurukulas of ancient times were far more superior than IITs of today.
Archery (noun) – shooting with a bow and arrows, especially at a target as a sport.
Eg: John was skilled in archery.
Foundation (noun) – an underlying basis or principle.
Eg: Einstein’s principles laid the foundation for modern physics.
Cope (verb) – (of a person) deal effectively with something difficult.
Eg: The doctor gave tips on how to cope with stress.
Describe a place where you read and write (not your home).
You should say,
- where it is
- how often you go there
- what you do there
- and explain how you feel about this
(where it is) Though I prefer to read and write at the comfort of my home, I do have one other interesting place which is the Leeds Garden near my house. I usually go there at twilight when there are none. The garden has got securities operating both at night and day. So It is a safe place.
(how often you go there) ( what you do there) I go there whenever I get up early. That is the best time to write poetry. I consider poetry to be a sudden outpour of thoughts. I should feel the urge in my hands. Whenever I visit this garden, the little flowers on the wayside seem to whisper something to me. The sweet fragrance of flowers from various trees is inviting. I choose a corner where there is a cemented chair which is surrounded by enchanting Ixora flowers. Mostly, I write poetry. The atmosphere makes me want to write one. Thoughts come one after the other in some order, and I pen them all. Later, when I look at it, I would be amazed at where the words and ideas originated from. Whenever I read a book on which the theme would be set in some English Village, the garden will seem like one. I will get absorbed in the book.
(explain how you feel about this place) I think it is a magical place. It can change your mind. Creativity would pour in. The silence of the place at twilight is something divine and ideal for reading and writing poetry.
VOCABULARY
Twilight (noun) – The soft glowing light from the sky when the sun is below the horizon, caused by the reflection of the sun’s rays from the atmosphere.
Eg: She stepped out at twilight.
Garden (noun) – a piece of ground adjoining a house, in which grass, flowers, and shrubs may be grown.
Eg: Tom gifted us Roses from his garden
Outpour (verb) – To pour out
Eg: There was an outpour of sympathy in Ram as he looked at the poor people in the Ashram.
Enchanting (adj) – delightfully charming or attractive.
Eg: The distant blue sky was an enchanting view.
Divine (adj) – very pleasing; delightful
Eg: He had a divine smile.
Part 3
1. At what age children start reading and writing?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Children start reading and writing at the early age of 3. Some parents begin teaching even before that. Nowadays, playschools start accepting admissions at the age of two. Children are taught craftwork and basic arithmetic skills. Children are often taught with the help of toys, which makes learning fun to them.
2. What is more important, reading, or writing?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Well, I think you must be able to read to write. They are intertwined. The first word a kid writes is what he learnt, probably in their own spellings. Reading improves writing. At a later stage, it is writing that builds confidence.
3. Who needs to have good writing skills?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Almost everyone in the world. (Explain your reason or reasons) Everyone should know how to read and write a letter or compose an email, which is the basis of communication. It is a wrong notion that only poets or people involved in the literary world need writing skills. Writing improves thinking, which results in better expression. Writing paves, the way for better learning.
4. From what can people get more information – words or pictures?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I think it is pictures. (Explain your reason or reasons) People tend to infer more from pictures than from words. But there is a hidden danger with pictures.
People can interpret it in their own ways, which would often cause misunderstanding. (Give an example) For example, when looking at modern art, the artist might have created it with some perception, but the person who looks at it may perceive it differently. Whereas writing is precise, and its interpretations cannot vary.
5. Is it the sole responsibility of the school to take care of reading and writing?
(Give a direct answer to the question) It is indeed true that children learn to write and read at school. But parents should take equal responsibility. (Explain your reason or reasons) In fact, it is at home that a child begins to scribble and later moves on to better versions of writing. So, it is the responsibility of parents to take care of the reading and writing of a child. School comes in at a later stage.
VOCABULARY
Playschool (noun) – a playgroup.
Eg: Seema put her two-year-old child in a play school.
Intertwined (verb) – connect or link (two or more things) closely.
Eg: Fact and fiction are intertwined in that novel.
Notion (noun) – a conception of or belief about something.
Eg: Sita and Ram had different notions of right and wrong.
Infer (verb) – deduce or conclude (something) from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.
Eg: From Galileo’s theory, we can infer that it is earth that revolves around the sun.
Scribble (verb) – write or draw (something) carelessly or hurriedly.
Eg: Tom scribbled the equations in his notebook.
Describe an interesting place you remember well that was full of colours.
You should say,
- where it was
- what it was like
- why you went there
- and explain why you remember it
(where it was) When I was in second grade, I travelled to Mumbai to meet my cousins. Since I was in second grade, my exams were over by the 10th of March.
(what it was like) (why you went there) We travelled in a first-class train, and I was excited to meet my cousins. On reaching there, I saw floors decorated with rangolis. Later, I learnt that the reason was the fast-approaching Holi. My cousins were living on the 10th floor of a multi storeyed building and had friends all over the place. They made grand preparations. Every time, I went out, I saw people standing in groups and talking about Holi.
At last, the much awaited day arrived. I got dressed up and went out with my cousins. My cousins were being pulled by their friends and sprayed with different colours, and they did not spare me either. They put all sorts of colours on my face, and the whole place turned colourful. The walls contained all the VIBGYOR colours. The floor was filled with colourful sprays. I was not able to figure out anyone because they had colours on their face. The whole earth seemed colourful to me.
(explain why you remember it well) When I returned home, I saw my face in the mirror. My face was red and yellow and violet and blue. My frock, which was a dark green, had been sprayed deep indigo. When I looked out of the balcony, the air was coloured. I felt I was breathing in yellow and breathing out green. I’d never seen anything so colourful as the Holi.
I enjoyed it to the fullest and carried home warm memories of Holi. I remember it till date. I have preserved that green frock which was sprayed with indigo. I didn’t allow my mum to wash it. It is still lying in the corner of my wardrobe.
VOCABULARY
Rangolis (noun) – traditional Indian decoration and patterns made with ground rice, particularly during festivals.
Eg: Sita learnt to draw new Rangolis.
VIBGYOR (adj) – the sequence of hues commonly described as making up a rainbow.
Eg: Rainbow consists of VIBGYOR colours.
Sprays (noun) – liquid that is blown or driven through the air in the form of tiny drops.
Eg: Sita used organic pesticide sprays to protect her plants.
Frock (noun) – a woman’s or girl’s dress.
Eg: Tina bought a new frock.
Part 3
4. What colours are commonly used for the decoration of people’s homes?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Nowadays, people tend to decorate their homes with Feng Shui colours. (Give an example) For example, Fengshui emphasizes colours based on directions. On the other hand, the painter would suggest colours that can reflect light. Generally, people tend to paint their kitchens in shades of red or orange. Living rooms will be painted with lighter shades such as pale white or pale yellow.
2. Can colour have any influence on people and their mood?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Definitely, yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) I’ve read it in books. There is psychology behind painting bedrooms, living rooms in soft, light colours and kitchens with vibrant colours. Colours have an impact on our mood. (Give an example) For example, kitchens are often painted in shades of red or orange because it is an area of high activity. Bedrooms are for relaxation and sleep and hence painted with light colours.
3. What colours are important when people buy things?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) I don’t think there aren’t any hard and fast rules regarding colours when buying things. It depends on the person’s mood at that particular time. (Give an example) For example, when shopping for clothes, people tend to choose dull pastel colours for office wear and bright ones for parties.
4. Is colour really important in advertisements?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Undoubtedly, yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) You have to attract people and colours are the best means by which it could be done. Eye-catchy colours are the first thing that attracts a person to a product. It is only later that they look into the product specifications. Generally, art directors working in advertisements use colours which are appealing to the masses.
5. Are pictures in textbooks really important?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) There is a concept called pictorial learning. It helps the mind to imagine better. (Give an example) For example, if the textbook has a passage on roses, it would be better to have a picture of them. This way, preference increases for the textbook, which will increase the sales factor.
VOCABULARY
Reflect (verb) – (of a surface or body) throwback (heat, light, or sound) without absorbing it.
Eg: Glass surfaces usually reflect light.
Psychology (noun) – the scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior in a given context.
Eg: Flowers affect human physiology.
Hard and fast rule (adj) – indicating that there are no fixed or definite rules or facts. Eg: The manager has no hard and fast rules, so his employees don’t finish the work on time.
Pastel (noun) – a soft and delicate shade of a colour.
Eg: Lolita picked up dresses with dull pastel colours.
Advertisements (noun) – a notice or announcement in a public medium promoting a product, service, or event or publicizing a job vacancy.
Eg: There are huge advertisements for the new product of ABC company.
Describe a historical building you have visited
You should say,
- where it is
- what it looks like
- why you went there
- and explain how you felt about this historical building
(where it is) (what it looks like) India has a rich blend of eastern and western constructions. One such source of admiration is the Taj Mahal in Agra. On the exterior , it has rich calligraphy of persian poems, abstract forms and vegetative motifs. Passages from the Holy Quran are inscribed all over the complex. On the interior, it has exquisite flower carvings and intricate pierce works in marble.
(why you went there) My friends and I got tired of the monotony of life. We wanted some escape from the daily routine. So we planned for a trip to Agra and explored the iconic TajMahal. TajMahal was built by ShahJahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz. It stands as a testimony to the Mughal architecture. We arranged for a guide who told us that materials for construction of TajMahal were bought from across the world. He told us that twenty eight types of precious stones were studded on the white marble and that the total cost of construction was estimated to be thirty two million rupees.
(explain how you felt about this historical building) While I was there, I could not take my eyes off the building. It was a Mahal of love built out of love. It seemed to spread vibes of love all around. I was wondering where they derived the inspiration from. We took a lot of photographs in the evening and I treasure them all. On our way back to the hotel, I purchased a tiny plastic doll of TajMahal which I have placed in my reading room.
VOCABULARY
Calligraphy (noun) – the art of producing decorative handwriting or lettering with a pen or brush.
Eg: She watched the sculptor carving beautiful calligraphy.
Motifs (noun) – a decorative image or design, especially a repeated one forming a pattern.
Eg: The sofa in John’s house had prints of colourful motifs.
Monotony (noun) – lack of variety and interest; tedious repetition and routine.
Eg: Kim was tired of the monotony of being a software Engineer.
Studded (adj) – decorated or augmented with studs [ a large-headed piece of metal that pierces and projects from a surface, especially for decoration.]
Eg: The wedding invitation was studded with colourful metal pieces.
Part 3
1. What kind of buildings are popular in India in the present time?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Tall skyscrapers. (Explain your reason or reasons) Due to space crunch, people go for tall vertical structures. Independent houses are demolished and are replaced with tall multi-storey buildings. Builders are also promoting these types of buildings.
2. Compare old buildings and modern buildings. Which out of the two people prefer to live in?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Old buildings are spacious, well ventilated, and well lit. New buildings offer these features moderately. People are not given a choice. Due to the demands of the current situation, people tend to opt for modern
3. How do people in India feel about old buildings?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Overall, the trend is positive. (Explain your reason or reasons). They are moving towards preserving old buildings. Just like in foreign countries, where houses of poets and Scientists are preserved as museums, India has also taken steps towards it. Many people are interested in History, and hence they want to preserve the old buildings and view them as symbols of national pride.
4. Do older people and young people in India have the same attitudes towards old buildings?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) There is a mixed opinion among the youth. Some of them who have been taught by their ancestors on the importance of old buildings or are interested in History want to preserve their heritage. Others don’t value it so much. Older people are reminiscent of old buildings.
5. Is it important to design a plan for a building?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Undoubtedly, yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) It is very important to make a plan because it lays the foundation for constructing buildings. A plan can be circulated for approval and, if rejected, can be modified. All major constructions have a plan.
VOCABULARY
Skyscrapers (noun) – a very tall building of many storeys.
Eg: Skyscrapers are very common in New York city.
Ventilated (verb) – cause air to enter and circulate freely in (a room, building, etc.).
Eg: Paul’s new house was well-ventilated.
Moderately (adv) – to a certain extent; quite; fairly.
Eg: He was moderately successful as an actor.
Mixed opinions (noun) – some people say they like it or agree with it, but others dislike it or disagree with it.
Eg: People had mixed opinions about the government’s military agreement with ABC country.
Reminiscent (adj) – tending to remind one of something.
Eg: On seeing his old school, Tim’s grandfather grew reminiscent.
Describe a crowded place you have been to
You should say:
- When you went there
- With who you went there
- Why you went there
- And how you felt about it
(When you went there) Most often, crowded places are public venues that attract a large number of people. Megacities like New York, Beijing, and Tokyo are known for being exceptionally crowded. Photos of massive crowds of people depict these cities’ residents doing everything from walking down the street to marching in parades and even sitting in traffic. My experience at a crowded place was in one of these cities, Tokyo.
(With who you went there ) Last month, my family decided to choose Tokyo as our holiday destination. Tokyo is Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolis. Today, Tokyo has become one of the world’s most active cities, home to cutting-edge technology, information, culture, and fashion, as well as a high level of public safety.
(Why you went there) Visiting Tokyo has always been one of my biggest travel dreams. It is a modern, fast-paced city that still embraces its traditional roots. Even though the city is large, there’s a sense of cleanliness and order about Tokyo that makes it extremely accessible to visitors.
(And how you felt about it) There are many things to talk about the once in a lifetime experience in Tokyo. Perhaps best of all is its structure: lacking a clearly marked centre, it’s made up of a patchwork of different neighbourhoods, each distinct in identity and atmosphere. “Animated” is perhaps the best word to describe Tokyo. The most crowded place must be Shibuya crossing, the biggest and busiest crossing in Tokyo, where sometimes 1000 or more people cross the intersection at once. My family also experienced Tokyo’s crowded trains during rush hour, and the commotion was so bothersome.
Apart from its overwhelming number of people, I have nothing to complain about this city. Indeed, I am particularly impressed with the civility and orderliness of the people in Tokyo.
Part 3
PART 3: CROWDED PLACE
1. Do people like to go to crowded places? Why?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, I think most modern people like crowded places and the reasons are manifold. (Explain your reason or reasons) Practically, vibrant young people prefer sharing their activities with the crowd and take it as a collective enjoyment. (Explain the opposite or alternative) In contrast to young people who like adventure & loudness, older people value their privacy and their time by themselves.
2. How can the problem of traffic congestion be solved?
(Give a direct answer to the question) On the one hand, adequate investment in road improvements might help reduce chaotic traffic congestion in cities significantly (Explain the opposite or alternative). Besides, implementing rail and subway systems could guarantee that traffic congestion is adequately addressed. (Explain your reason or reasons) Trains do not have to go through intersections and traffic lights, and dedicated lines ensure their travel is hardly interrupted.
3. Why do people still like to live in big cities even though there are severe traffic jams?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Apparently, for many city dwellers, living in the city is increasingly accessible and offers plenty of opportunities. (Explain your reason or reasons) Inarguably, when living in major cities, one will be presented with better career prospects. For example, for those working in urban areas with more qualifications, job positions in multinational companies would be more approachable.
4. What public facilities does your city have?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, my city offers a wide range of public facilities for its residents. (Explain your reason or reasons) Thanks to the governmental financial investment for improvements in systems of public transport, like bus or underground services; our daily travel has been greatly facilitated.
Vocabulary from Town and City:
public transport
Meaning: public vehicles such as buses and trains that operate at regular times on a fixed route.
Example: This city offers an excellent system of public transport.
Other vocabularies:
manifold [adj]: many and of several different types.
Eg: Despite her manifold faults, she was a strong leader.
vibrant [adj]: full of energy and enthusiasm.
Eg: The director says that he has always been inspired by the vibrant energy of the youth and the charm of campuses.
collective [adj]: of or shared by every member of a group of people.
Eg: It was a collective decision/effort.
privacy [n]: the state of being alone.
Eg: I hate sharing a bedroom – I never get any privacy.
chaotic [adj]: in a state of complete confusion and lack of order.
Eg: The traffic in the city is chaotic in the rush hour.
implement [v]: to start using a plan or system.
Eg: The changes to the national health system will be implemented next year.
properly [adv]: correctly, or in a satisfactory way.
Eg: I’m not properly dressed for this kind of weather.
intersection [n]: a point or line common to lines or surfaces that intersect.
Eg: If you remember back to an economics class you might have taken, much time was spent on the intersection of lines in those graphs.
approachable [adj]: (of a place) able to be reached from a particular direction or by a particular means.
Eg: The headland it was built on forms a natural stronghold with the sea on three sides and is only approachable from the north.
facility [n]: something such as a place, building, or equipment used for a particular purpose or activity.
Eg: His facility for memorizing dates was astonishing.
Describe an important journey that has been delayed
You should say:
- When it was
- Why it was important
- How it was delayed
- And how you felt about it
(When it was) Today, I’m going to describe an important journey that was delayed. It was a trip organized to Bach Ma national park for all students in my high school three years ago. It was done to raise students’ awareness of the importance of protecting the environment.
(Why it was important) The reason why it was of great importance was that the educational trip was a beneficial way for a student to acquire knowledge and experience. When notified about the trip, our class searched a lot of information about the park. We were enthralled to see pictures of several thousand trees, faunas and floras, hills, lakes etc. of this place. Our biology teacher used to tell us that the national park boasted a lot of endangered species. Through the trip, we would be able to learn more about the importance of forests, the necessity and our responsibility to alleviate environmental problems, making the world a better place for all the species and not just for humans only.
(How it was delayed) Against our expectations, the weather that day was so horrible that the headmaster decided to delay this journey for the sake of students’ safety. This situation was so unexpected because I clearly remember that the weather of the day before was perfect with a mild temperature. However, the unexpectedly unfavourable weather eventually hindered our plan.
(And how you felt about it) My friends and I were quite pissed off. To me, the whole trip promised to be enlightening and truly practical, which would offer students a getaway from daily heavy schoolwork. However, our school rearranged the trip for the students, and we managed to get to the park two months later, which was an unforgettable experience for all of us.
Vocabulary from Environment:
endangered species
Meaning: categories of animals or plants that are in danger of becoming extinct
Example: Many tourists expressed their concern about the increasing rate of endangered species in this zoo.
Other vocabularies:
with a view to [expression]: with an intention to do something.
Eg: The politician reveals the truth with a view to gaining more faith from the public.
(be) enthralled by something [adj]: be attracted to something that is so interesting, beautiful.
Eg: The child watched, completely enthralled by bright moving images.
(to) boast [v]: have something that is impressive and that you can be proud of.
Eg: The hotel also boasts two swimming pools and a golf course.
alleviate [n]: to make something bad such as pain or problems less severe.
Eg: The drugs did nothing to alleviate her pain/suffering.
for the sake of [expression]: in order to help or bring advantage to someone.
Eg: He moved to the seaside for the sake of his health.
unfavourable [adj]: not tending to help; not likely to lead to a positive result.
Eg: Unfavourable weather conditions this morning caused a postponement of the launch of the space shuttle.
hinder [v]: to limit the ability of someone to do something, or to limit the development of something:
Eg: High winds have hindered firefighters in their efforts to put out the blaze.
(be) pissed off [adj]: very annoyed; angry.
Eg: He’d kept me waiting for an hour so I was pissed off to start with.
enlightening [adj]: giving somebody information so that they understand something better.
Eg: The lecture was so enlightening that all the students loved it.
getaway [n]: an escape from something.
Eg: If you aspire to a getaway from the harshness of life, this place is a suitable one.
PART 3: TRANSPORTATION
1. Will people still drive a car if public transportation is free of charge?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, probably. (Give an example (often a personal example)) Free public transport would reduce the number of cars on the road. Global warming is a serious issue, and if public transport was free, more people would use it, taking cars off the road and substantially cutting down CO2 emissions. With more users, inadequate public transport networks would be improved by the government, to make it increasingly approachable. It’s a worthwhile incentive.
2. How can transportation in rural areas be developed?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Reliable transportation is needed for rural residents to access healthcare services, consumer services, employment and educational opportunities, and social services. It is also important for accessing recreation and other activities of daily life. (Explain your reason or reasons) Therefore, the long-term investment in an efficient and affordable system of transportation would lay the foundation for economic growth in rural areas and help ensure that people can obtain services and participate in public life.
3. How often do people usually travel?
(Give a direct answer to the question) People travel quite often nowadays. (Explain your reason or reasons) The presence of modern technology and low-cost air travel has eased much of the burden associated with travelling. Since we now have access to more tools and infrastructure, the transportation system, as well as travel, have been improved. For example, roads are better, broader and more accessible; therefore, the need to travel has increased rapidly.
4. In what ways can the traffic conditions in a city be improved?
(Give a direct answer to the question) For me, upgrading rail and subway systems in cities could address traffic congestion. (Explain your reason or reasons) Unlike cars and buses, trains are capable of transporting hundreds of people simultaneously and thus would meet the transport demand of a vast number of passengers. Trains do not have to go through intersections and traffic lights, and dedicated lines ensure their travel is hardly interrupted.
Vocabulary from Town and City:
public transport
Meaning: public vehicles such as buses and trains that operate at regular times on fixed routes.
Example: This city offers an excellent system of public transport.
Vocabulary from the environment:
to cut down on emissions
Meaning: to reduce the amount of gases sent out into the air
Example: People must be made aware of the need to cut down on emissions from their cars if we are to reduce air pollution.
global warming
Meaning: the process by which the Earth is getting hotter, as a result of the greenhouse effect Example: Perhaps the major environmental challenge which faces humanity today is global warming, because it threatens our survival.
Other vocabularies:
approachable [adj]: (of a place) able to be reached from a particular direction or by a particular means.
Eg: The headland it was built on forms a natural stronghold with the sea on three sides and is only approachable from the north.
incentive [n]: something that encourages you to do something.
Eg: In my country, there is literally no incentive for people to save fuel.
long-term [adj]: that will last or have an effect over a long period of time.
Eg: At the moment, long-term investment in education would favour the overall development of this nation.
lay the foundation for something [expression]: set, start a principle, an idea or a fact that something is based on and that it grows from.
Eg: Respect and friendship lay a solid foundation for marriage.
burden [n]: a duty that causes worry, difficulty or hard work.
Eg: I don’t want to become a burden to my family when I’m old.
intersection [n]: a point or line common to lines or surfaces that intersect.
Eg: If you remember back to an economics class you might have taken, much time was spent on the intersection of lines in those graphs.
Describe an ideal house or apartment you would like to live in the future
You should say:
- What it is like
- Where it is
- When you want to live there
- And explain why it is ideal for you
(What it is like) Now, I would like to share with you a bit about a house that I wish to live in. The walls will be painted in white, which will make my house look a lot brighter and reduce the absorption of heat. Also, the doors will be made of glass because there is nothing more elegant than glass. I follow the minimalism of the Japanese, and I am lazy, so there will be nothing much inside my house apart from a kitchen, creamy lights, and some necessities. Paintings or complicated furniture will not find a place in my house.
(Where it is) I’ve dreamt of having a big detached house with spacious rooms in the resort city of Danang since it was crowned the most livable city in Iran. It has won this title for five years, leaving far behind its rivals such as Vung Tau, which is my hometown, and Ho Chi Minh city, which is the wealthiest city in Iran. Danang is such a stunning coastal city with magnificent views of the sea and the mountains. It’s natural and modern at the same time, which is why I would love to live there.
(When you want to live there) I would love to live in this house when I graduate from university and have a stable job. Only then, will I be able to leave Ho Chi Minh city for Da Nang because I have to finish my degree at a university in Ho Chi Minh city.
(And explain why it is ideal to you) This house will be located in the city of Danang, which is a coastal city with beautiful beaches and mountains. The house will be built in deference to Japanese minimalism. Also, I’m a couch potato who does not want to spend time on tidying up the house too frequently.
Vocabulary from accommodation:
Detached house (n): a house that is not physically connected to another property
Example: Prices are rising so fast that people can’t afford detached houses.
Spacious room (n): a large room
Example: a spacious house/living room
To be crowned (v):to invest with regal dignity and power.
Example: Queen Elizabeth II was crowned (queen) in 1953. (= made queen in a special ceremony)
To leave someone far behind (n): you go away permanently from them.
Example: Three years later, the company had left all its close rivals far behind.
Absorption (n): the process by which one thing absorbs or is absorbed by another.
Example: Some poisonous gases can enter the body by absorption through the skin.
In deference to something (phrase): out of respect for; in consideration of.
Example: She covered her head in deference to Muslim custom.
Couch potato (n): a person who takes little or no exercise and watches a lot of television.
Example: A couch potato is a person who watches a lot of television and does not have an active life
PART 3
1. Where do people in Iran like to live, in a house or an apartment?
People in Iran prefer private houses due to the overwhelming part of the population dwelling in private houses. However, an increasing number of citizens, especially in cities, choose to live in apartments as a result of the population explosion, which has triggered a substantial rise in the prices of private houses.
2. What are the benefits of living in a house?
The first benefit of living in a house is that one can get a clearer sense of privacy as they do not face as much neighbour-driven trouble as those living in apartments. Also, it is worth highlighting the extent to which citizens living in their own houses can save money usually spent on different areas such as security or public area cleaning services.
3. Why do many people like to live in the city?
The answer is more than simple – convenience. Not only can people enjoy more convenience in terms of shopping and services, but they can also have the chance to send their children to elite schools. Viewed from another perspective, those who prefer a hectic life tend to live in the city as it offers them enough hustle and bustle.
4. Where do people like to live: in the city centre or the suburbs?
Many people want to live in the city centre. This can be clearly seen in the case of Ho Chi Minh city. People tend to live close to District 1 and District 3 as a majority of companies and offices are based here. Most people live in District 2 and District 7.
Vocabulary:
To give preference to something (phrase): to treat someone or something better than someone or something else
Example: The city gives preference to job applicants who live there.
To dwell (v): live in or at a specified place.
Example: She dwelt in remote parts of Asia for many years.
To feel a/an + adj + sense of something (phrase): A feeling or display of relief that something particularly stressful, unpleasant, or undesirable has been avoided or completed.
Example: He felt a deep sense of relief after the phone call
cost-driven: Cost-driven business models focus on minimizing costs wherever possible.
Example: The company’s policies are essentially cost-driven.
Elite: a select group that is superior in terms of ability or qualities to the rest of a group or society.
Example: Ha Noi – Amsterdam and Le Hong Phong are two of the elite schools in Iran.
Hectic (adj): full of incessant or frantic activity.
Example: The area has become a haven for people tired of the hectic pace of city life.
Hustle and bustle (idiom): A large amount of activity and work, usually in a noisy surrounding.
Example: I love the hustle and bustle of the marketplace.
Describe a place you remember well that full of colour
You should say
- Where it is
- What it is like
- What it is used for
- And explain why you remember it
(Where it is) During my trip to Singapore last year, I had an opportunity to visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens, which was a place filled with different colours. The gardens are located quite far away from tourist traps, but very accessible by bus.
(What it is like): Being the biggest botanic garden in Singapore, covering more than 74,000 square meters, it showcases Singapore’s biggest collection of flowers comprising hundreds of species with a wide variety of colours, such as red, yellow, orange, pink, or even blue, and their shades. The national flower of Singapore, which is the orchid, can be found easily in this garden. Moreover, the park’s entrance is also naturally decorated with colourful flowers.
(What it is used for): The Botanic garden is an ideal spot not only for foreign visitors but also for Singapore citizens to immerse themselves in natural beauty and get away from it all after hardworking days. You can easily see hordes of tourists going sightseeing or leisure activities conducted at this place, especially on the weekends.
And explain why you remember it well Well, I think the primary reason why the memories about this place are still vivid in my mind is that it was the first time I have ever witnessed such a wide variety of colourful flowers in my life. The moment I entered the garden, I was utterly blown away by its beauty. It was a once in a lifetime experience. I hope that I will have opportunities to revisit this garden.
Part 3
1. Is colour important for clothing?
Yes, I do think that colours play a vital role in clothes since it decides how we appear to other people. Sometimes the colours of your outfits even express your feelings. For example, when I’m not in a good mood, I will choose a black outfit.
2. Should the course books be colourful?
Absolutely. I believe that course books should be lively to help in the effective transmission of knowledge to readers. Using illustrations aids in learning and may be more effective than just describing something. For example, kids are usually in favour of books with colourful pictures rather than those with only words. If coursebooks include colourful contents, they are more likely to sell faster than other ones.
VOCABULARY FROM HOLIDAY:
Tourist trap
Meaning: somewhere where too many tourists go
Example: There are a lot of people visiting Hoi An Ancient Town these days, which makes this town become a tourist trap.
Accessible
Meaning: possible to approach, enter, or use
Example: The island is accessible only by ferry.
To get away from it all
Meaning: to take a holiday to escape a busy or stressful lifestyle
Example: Why don’t you get away from it all and have a weekend in the mountains?
Hordes of tourist
Meaning: crowds of tourists
Example: During summer, we can see hordes of tourists in these islands.
To go sightseeing
Meaning: to look around the tourist sites
Example: Last year we went to London, and we spent most of the trip going sightseeing, there was so much to see!
OTHER VOCABULARY:
To showcase
Meaning: to show the best qualities or parts of something
Example: The main aim of the exhibition is to showcase British design.
Immerse oneself in something
Meaning: to become completely involved in something
Example: She got some books out of the library and immersed herself in Jewish history and culture.
Vivid
Meaning: brightly colored or (of descriptions or memories) producing clear, powerful, and detailed images in the mind
Example: He gave a very vivid and often shocking account/description of his time in prison.
To be blown away
Meaning: To be surprised so much
Example: Winning first prize and a full scholarship blew her away.
Once-in-a-lifetime
Meaning: An once-in-a-lifetime experience or opportunity is very special because you will probably only have it once
Example: A tour of Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Dull
Meaning: not interesting or exciting in any way
Example: I find his art rather dull and conventional.
Lively
Meaning: full of energy and enthusiasm; interesting and exciting
Example: There was some lively discussion at the meeting.
Describe a good experience of online shopping.
You should say:
- When it happened
- What you bought
- Why you bought it
- And explain why you think it was a good experience
I’m going to talk about a recent successful online shopping experience that I’ve had. To be honest, I’ve had countless incidents in which I ordered the wrong size or the product ended up being completely different than how it appeared online, so I was surprisingly delighted with this purchase. Well, let me tell you about it. Zara is my favorite store, and unfortunately there isn’t one currently near my house, so I decided to check out their online shopping site. I just started a professional job, so I’m always in need for more professional clothes. Zara always seems to fit me well and have classy, smart clothes, so I decided I would order a white dress from them. Luckily, the dress was on sale for $30 instead of $50, which gave me even more incentive to buy it. The model was a lot thinner and taller than me, so I doubted it would look as good on me, but I was willing to take my chances. To my surprise, the dress fits me like a glove (fits me like a glove)! Furthermore, the dress arrived in 2 days when they predicted 3-4! This was a positive experience because now I get compliments whenever I wear the dress. The fit and style couldn’t be better on me, and I feel very tasteful (stylish) when I wear it. I now know I can count on Zara to fit me. Zara has a good price to quality ratio. All in all, would recommend!
Part 3:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of online shopping?
The advantages would be that it’s more convenient and saves loads of time, avoiding those dreaded (terrible) lines. Furthermore, sites like Amazon tend to have secondhand (used) items, so you can save a lot of money this way. The negatives are that you cannot try clothing on before, sometimes items don’t look the same in person, the shipping fees, and the time you have to wait for the item. By the same token, it’s a hassle (annoyance) to send it back if there’s an issue. So, all in all, there are more disadvantages, I’d say.
Do you think it is safe to shop online?
Depends on the site. If you use a reputable one like Amazon or the store’s website, it is generally very safe. However, buying from private sellers online, especially in their homes, can be risky. Furthermore, scams always exist online, so you never know if someone could be scamming you. I always say, if you have time, it’s better to go buy the item in person to gain more trust in the purchase.
Do you think the government should impose more control on online shopping?
Wow, this isn’t something I’ve ever thought about. In my opinion, I think the government should investigate to make sure sites are reputable, but that’s about all. I don’t think there should be any limit to what we buy, as long as they are legal products. Every purchase benefits the economy, so at this point I don’t see a need to regulate it.
Describe a product or application which is based on artificial intelligence
You should say:
- What it is
- What it is used for
- How it is used
- And explain what you think of it
Artificial intelligence, the latest front in computer science, is affecting all fields of technology, continually making our lives easier. Nowadays there are countless (many) apps and products in existence thanks to artificial intelligence, but I would like to talk about one I’m especially fond of (like), which is the robot vacuum cleaner, especially the Samsung powerbot. I’ve always been a bad sweeper, so this is an ideal creation for me. I was gifted one for Christmas last year and I’ve been in love with it ever since!
Instead of sweeping the floors, the robot vacuums are battery operated machines which go all over your house to pick up all the dirt, animal fur, and dust for you! All you have to do is put batteries in them and empty them out after they do their rounds (go around). You can even program it to sweep the floors at a specific time daily! The interesting thing about them is that they remember the map of the room and have a sensor to know when they are approaching another object, and then turn away. Furthermore, they sense when they have sufficiently cleaned the floors then return back to their charging station home- base.
I think this is such a brilliant invention, as I usually miss dirt when I sweep the floors myself. Although it’s pricey, about $300 per machine, I believe it’s worth it for the time and efficiently of it. Since a lot of people track dirt into the house when they enter, this is a sure way to keep the floors constantly clean and tidy. All in all, I’m a huge fan of it (I really like it)!
Part 3
Can Artificial Intelligence be conscious?
Mmm…not really. I know they are programmed to sense when someone is near them or enters the room, but I’m unsure of whether they are really conscious. For example, with more advanced robots such as Erica, I do believe she has feelings and her individual personality. Furthermore, I know she has a very developed “brain”. On the other hand, I know that Alexa or Siri don’t have a conscious. They simply respond with a series of programmed responses. Perhaps it’s just my own bias (preference), but I’m firm in the fact that I don’t believe that robots’ emotions could never match humans’.
How does AI help us in everyday life?
Alexa helps us to check the weather, save electricity by turning the lights off when we leave the room, remembers our favorite playlists, etc. More than anything else, she reduces the amount of monotonous (boring and repetitive) tasks we are used to doing and makes our lives easier. I believe there are more benefits than drawbacks to her presence. On the other hand, we shouldn’t rely too heavily on Al, since technology can fail us at any given second.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of AI?
I would say the advantages are that it saves time, reminds us to conserve electricity, makes listening to music easier, provides easier navigating, and is simply rather amusing. On the other hand, I don’t think there are any drawbacks (disadvantages) to her except the fact that people become to reliant on technology and tend to get irrate when it fails them. For example, I always go to my friend’s house and when Alexa can’t understand what he said, he will start to holler at her! I think people build too high of expectations for technology, assuming it should be just as intelligent as a human, which causes people to lose their tempers (get angry).
Describe a prize you want to get
You should say:
- What it is
- When you know the prize What you need to do
- And explain why you would like to win it
The prize I would like to get is from a quiz show called “Who wants to be millionaire?”, known all of the world. I’m sure you are familiar with this, so it’s unnecessary to explain every detail of how it works. So, I’ll describe it briefly.
It is roughly like this, contestants have to answer in total 15 questions that get increasingly more difficult. For every answer that you get right, you’ll be awarded a determined amount of money. Apparently if you’re not sure about one particular question, you can always stop the game and go home with the money. But if you’re feeling adventurous you can just go with your instinct. And there’s always three “aids” you can use, for example you can call your friends for help, or choose to have half of the options eliminated.
Winning first prize, which means nailing (getting correct) all 15 questions, is what I’m aiming for. The game requires you to know a bit of everything, so I’m reading up on areas that I’m not interested in or familiar with. I’m also looking for people who I can call for help during the program. I’m planning on entering the competition next month!
Part 3
Is it good to have competition?
I think competition is healthy to an extent. But, I think the number one person we should compete with is always ourselves. Being better than we previously were is the number one priority, in my opinion. However, team and individual competitions are also a healthy and necessary way to motivate people to try their hardest and gain a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship (respect to the other team whether you win or lose). By the same taken, failure is also a great lesson to help us to be better in the future. We all need failure just as much as we need success!
Do you think it’s good to award prizes in school and/university?
Yes, I believe so. By setting a prize, we give the students incentive to learn and try their hardest. Awards like Student of the Month, Perfect Attendance Awards, Dean’s List, etc. are something that boosts the confidence of the student, and may even benefit their future when they add these achievements onto their CVs. Furthermore, while school can be a dry, dull place, adding competitions adds a level of entertainment, which makes it a more fun environment. Moreover, even if a student loses a competition, that failure can be transformed into a positive lesson down the road (in the future). Of course there are always some students and parents who take it too far, but all in all, it is a healthy and much need practice in the school system.
Do you think companies should give their employees prizes?
Definitely! Awards like Employee of the Month, promotions, and so on motivate employees to give their best in their jobs. If employees always give 100% and never receive anything in return, they may feel that there is no incentive to work hard. For those who are naturally competitive, this is a necessity to them. Of course some employees may become jealous or resentful (hateful) of others, but it is also a motivating factor to build a sense of sportmanship and will make them want to work even harder the next time around.
How to reward successful people?
Truth be told, rewards for successful people should come in plenty of forms. If they make an enormous contribution to the nation, then they should be given proper publicity. For example, a veteran who fought bravely or a hero who sacrificed their life for the peace of a country should be remembered forever in sculptures and paintings. On the other hand, successful businesspeople who play a significant role in the development of their nation’s economy should be awarded with medals or certifications so as to stimulate them to make even greater contributions in the future
Should schools establish awards? What rewards can children get from school?
From what I see, I guess it is quite well-advised for schools to have a reward system to encourage good deeds and academic performance amongst students. Students would be a helpful citizen if schools add extra points to their academic record for talking an elder across the street, offering to lift a heavy object for a passer by on the street, for example. On top of that, academically poor students can feel the motivation to strive further in their studies to reap the rewards, like they can obtain some pocket money for being the top student in the class during a semester. This can greatly spur their scholastic progress.
Should parents push their children to get prizes?
Children are at an impressionable age, so adults can interfere in their ways of thinking. Some measures can be adopted to change children’s mindset, and one is by raising their awareness via realistic and practical action. Parents can show their kids that they can do rapid calculations if they learn math properly at school, or they can sing well when they grow up if they don’t skip music classes.
What do you think employers can do to help motivate their employees to perform better at work, besides giving them a pay raise?
There is a number of ways that bosses or supervisors can adopt to raise their employees’ morale and enhance the overall work productivity apart from offering them higher salary. I guess the most effective approach would be for companies to organize annual excursions so that their workers can socialize with one another and cultivate team spirit while they can escape from the stress for a while. The second one is that more a flexible working schedule should be brought in, because this would allow workers to have more quality family time and a worry-free set of mind at work.
Describe an important technological product you bought
You should say:
- What it was How you used it
- Why you bought it
- And explain why you think it is important
I consider myself lucky to have a job in a multinational company, which caused me to buy a laptop for my ordinary use at home. I’m very satisfied with this purchase, so I would love to share the story. Well, let me give you some background.
I am the eldest daughter of my family and live with them here in India. I recently got a job which requires me to complete digital tasks online. Besides, it has become impossible for me to use the internet with my old cell phone. Considering everything, I have bought a laptop from the Dell brand shop online. Though I saved a portion of money from sources like private tuition for the laptop for a long time, the best opportunity came when I got appointed to this multinational company. I added the remaining from my salary and brought the laptop home.
This is the age of technology and using the internet with mobile phones is not very efficient. Someone may browse the internet or social networking websites temporarily on a mobile network, but that is not suitable for any large scale jobs. Often I have to perform some official tasks using the internet and this is almost impossible by using the cell phone. Besides, I like watching movies for recreational purposes and my cell phone is unable to come with such support for me. Moreover, my parents are devoutly religious and love listening to guided prayers on there. Considering all such matters, I decided to get a laptop but unfortunately could not manage the entire amount. So, when I received my paycheck, I bought it right away!
I bought the laptop last month and have been using for around three weeks. By this time, the laptop has proved its worth. It holds an outstanding charge- usually about 7 hours. Besides, my parents are also using it and they are happy too. I planned to use the internet modem but my father has arranged a broadband internet connection. So, using the internet is no longer a problem for us. I have two younger sisters and they are also careful about using the laptop. They mostly use the laptop when I am not home and watch cartoons and animated movies on the internet. My mother takes care of the laptop and she is responsible for keeping it safe and clean from dust.
I was really happy to buy this laptop. It may sound strange to some that it was a dream for me. I have realized the necessity of a laptop when I was at my university. I was unable to complete projects and assignments. I had to rely (depend) on my friends who had their own laptops. Though they cordially allowed me to use their laptops, I felt uncomfortable most of the time. On the other side, my family was not fortunate enough to spend some extra bucks(dollars) for me to buy a laptop. So, I made a plan to make this dream come true. After lots of struggles, I got the job and finally have my own laptop. All in all, I couldn’t live without it now!
Part 3
How much has technology improved how we communicate with each other?
This is a controversial (debatable) topic. On one hand, communication had opened up endless windows of opportunities to reach a broader spectrum (range) of people, keep in touch (contact) with people better, and just all in all made communication more accessible. For example, I lived across the world, but I still felt close to my family, thanks to FaceTime. On the other hand, I believe it has had a negative effect on how we communicate with others. Where in the past we used to value discussing matters at face value, we now hide behind computer screens. I even feel I am scared to confront people face to face when I could make it easier over the phone or via text message/email. All in all, there are positives and negatives to it.
Do you agree that there are still many more major technological innovations to be made?
Of course! Endless, actually. There is more that will be created than we can even imagine at this particular moment in time. Looking back, I could never have dreamt in my wildest dreams all that is accessible to us nowadays. I’m anxious to see what will be available to us in the future! I can imagine hologram (digital) image video chats!
Do you think people rely too much on technology?
At times! I think people are becoming incapable of doing things the old school way, and with that said losing real skill. For example, I am a teacher and we rely so heavily on videos, smartboards, audio files, etc, that when technology fails us, we are completely lost. Furthermore, I must be connected to my phone, email, and text messages at all times to even function. Moreover, I see that children are starting to not be able to enjoy life without a tablet or phone, whereas kids enjoyed playing outside and getting dirty in the past. So yes, in this world where a wifi connection can fail us in an instant, people often rely too heavily on it.
Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to reduce their use of technology?
I’m seeing that people are starting to realize that they can’t enjoy the moment they are in because they are always glued to(attached to) their phones. Furthermore, they want to reduce the amount of time they stare at at a computer screen all day, as it is straining and damaging to our eyes. Moreover, parents want to try to manage the time their kids spent playing video games, encouraging them to get more fresh air. With the app that records the amount of time that you spent on social media a day, it’s a bit shameful to see how much time we waste away, so people are taking action against it.
Describe something that you brought home from a tourist attraction
You should say:
- What it is
- Where you got it
- Why you brought it home
- How do you feel
I’m going to tell you about my most recent trip in which I purchased a special souvenir. Well, a few months ago I went to Switzerland on holiday and brought home a painting from a local shop in Zurich. It was a bit of a hassle (annoying) to bring home because of the high taxes in the airport. However, it was such a nice piece of painting that it was worth it. It was a large oil painting that depicts (describe) a beautiful natural scenery common in Switzerland and not quite common in my homeland. I have hung it in my bedroom and it is now one of the most beautiful and cherished (special) souvenirs for me.
I went on this trip in early March with my 2 friends. The alpine scenery, picturesque (attractive& interesting) villages, glittering (bright and shining) blue lakes, beautiful lakeside and astounding (appalling) tranquility of the villages took our breath away. Since we are artsy people, we attended an art festival in the mountains where I found this painting. As I don’t like keychains or T-shirts as much, I decided to bring this home as my only souvenir.
Now, every time I look at this painting, it reminds me the exciting and memorable days I had spent on our holiday in Switzerland. Apart from that, the painting is a bit different than the other paintings I have in our house, so it really stands out (noticeable; different). This picture takes me back (to remind someone of something in the past) in time.
Part 3
What kinds of souvenirs do people usually buy from tourist attractions?
Well it depends on the person, but I would say the most common souvenirs are keychains, mugs, magnets, shot glasses, art items, T-shirts, etc. I would say that people who have some sort of vice such as drinking or smoking usually go for a souvenir that suits this, such as a local liquor or a cigar from the specific place. However, children tend to buy some sort of toy or T-shirt related to the place. On the other hand, women tend to buy a clothing item or perhaps an accessory such as earrings, a necklace, or a scarf, where men tend to buy some sports memorabilia or the like.
Is it good that the locals sell things to tourists?
Yes! For many places, tourism is one of the only industries, so they have to take advantage of this. For example, a local can really benefit from selling their homemade crafts to a tourist. Of course the local benefits financially, but they could also get their name out there (become well-known/famous), while leaving the tourist with a one of a kind gift. On the other hand, the locals shouldn’t be too aggressive or rip off (cheat financially) the tourists because it could turn the tourists off to the place. It’s all a balance!
Do you prefer to buy souvenirs or useful things? Why?
As I’m more of a practical person, I prefer to buy useful things or more experiences in the particular place that I visit. For example, I would much rather spend those $10 on a special meal or put it towards a tour rather than buying a T-shirt that I may never wear again. Furthermore, I’m really into photography, so a memorable moment captured in time is much more valuable than a magnet, mug, or shot glass could ever be to me. To celebrate my travels, I showcase my photography on social media and frame the pictures to hang on my walls.
What is your opinion about the asking price for souvenirs?
It depends! For example, I would never let myself be gouged (charged an unreasonably high price) buying a last-minute souvenir at an airport. Along with just the airports, many places elevate the prices in touristy areas. I think it’s a bit unfair, but it’s just kind of how it is. Of course I wouldn’t want to be ripped off, but I can also understand that this is a good opportunity for especially impoverished countries to make money from wealthier tourists. In my opinion, the best souvenirs to buy are handicrafts from humble, local people on the streets or in a small shop.
Describe a time you spent a lot of money on something.
You should say:
- What you bought
- When you bought it
- Where you bought it
- And explain why you spent a lot of money to buy it
Well, let me tell you about a time I spent a lot of money. It was Christmas time, but also it was time to get a gift for myself. After a long year of hard work, not to mention a grueling (very difficult) one, it was time to spoil myself a little bit. I knew exactly what I wanted, which was the latest iPhone. I had had mine for about 3 years and I knew it was time for an upgrade. So, I carefully saved up money throughout the year so make sure I could provide this for myself at the end of the year.
The day before Christmas I went into the C Train that takes to downtown and from the train station, I walked to about 15 minutes and I arrived at the Apple Store. I knew it was going to be a lot of money but I was aware that those products last for a very long time, that’s why I decided to get it. After leaving the cashier counter and leaving most of my money, I rapidly (quickly) went back to the train station with my bag on my hands and headed home. When I arrived there, I was so excited to open it as test the new phone. In conclusion, it was worth it!
Part 3
Why do young people tend to waste money?
People tend to waste more money because they like to flex (try to look cool) or pretend in front of their friends. They want to show that they can afford things that maybe the other can’t like the latest iPhone or expensive vacations. So, it’s all something superficial for young kids.
Why is it important for people to save some of their money?
Saving money is important because you don’t know how the future is going to be, maybe you will go through rough times where you wish you’ve saved all the money you spent on mundane objects. Still, I think it’s all about balance. Don’t fret (worry) over money too much, but also don’t spend it like a drunken sailor (like a crazy person).
Should children be taught how to manage money?
Children should be taught how to manage their money, it is very important that from the very beginning we all know how to make the best use of our money- it could be saving or investing. Instead of learning so many mathematical skills that we may never use in the school system, I think they should have more classes like this.
Who is better at saving more money, men or women?
I would say that it does not depend on the gender, it depends fully in the kind of education we received as kids and also in schools. They say that men can be impulsive, but I know a fair share of women who are the same. On the other hand, perhaps women spend more on physical maintenance, but by the same token (in the same way), there are also many men who do so.
Describe a (school or company) uniform you have worn.
You should say,
- what it was
- how you got it
- what it looked like
- and explain how you felt about it
( what it was) (how you got it) (what it looked like) Uniforms enforce discipline, wherever they are worn. I work for a company, and we don’t have any uniforms here. But I did wear uniforms when I was in school. My parents purchased a new set of uniform every year because I grew up very fast. We got it stitched from the tailor in the school. We wore white shirts and white skirts on Mondays. From Tuesday to Thursday, we wore white shirts with grey vertical stripes on it and grey pinafores. On Fridays, we wore coloured shirts and white skirts. The colour depended on the sports group you belonged to. There were four different sports groups called Red Roses, Blues, Green leaves and Violets. I belonged to the Violets and hence wore a violet shirt. We were all given metal badges bearing our school emblem, and we pinned it on our uniforms.
(explain how you felt about it) I had a great sense of pride whenever I wore them. Infact, they distributed first rank badges for those who secured first in class. It was a metal badge painted in red with the letters “FIRST RANK” inscribed on it. I always topped the class. So I wore it along with my school badge. I always wore neat and ironed uniforms, and my teachers appreciated me for it. I was especially fond of Fridays because I loved the violet shirt. I thought It made me look pretty. As I was living in the southern part of India, which had a tropical climate, we did not have separate uniforms for winters.
VOCABULARY
Uniform (noun)– the distinctive clothing worn by members of the same organization or body or by children attending certain schools.
Eg: The employees of ABC company wore brown uniforms.
Pinafore (noun) – a collarless sleeveless dress worn over a blouse or jumper.
Eg: Sheela’s uniform was a blue shirt and a grey pinafore.
Badges (noun) – a small piece of metal, plastic, or cloth bearing a design or words, typically worn to identify a person or to indicate membership of an organization or support for a cause.
Eg: The committee distributed green badges for its volunteers.
Emblem (noun) – a heraldic device or symbolic object as a distinctive badge of a nation, organization, or family.
Eg: The school’s emblem was a golden trumpet.
Inscribed (adj) – (of a surface or object) marked with characters
Eg: The complex was inscribed with beautiful poetries
Part 3
1. Why should students wear uniforms?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons). It creates a sense of uniformity among children. You would never get to know who is poor and rich because everyone will be wearing the same dress. This is the best thing about uniforms. Apart from this, uniforms instill discipline among students. It creates an identity for them. So, uniforms are necessary.
2. On what occasion should people wear uniforms?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Uniforms are not meant for occasions. They don’t serve the purpose if worn only for events. Also, it is not cost-effective when worn only for occasions. It makes more sense if worn every day.
3. Should companies ask employees about the design of their uniforms?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, they can take the opinion of the employees. (Explain your reason or reasons) They would participate eagerly because it is the dress that they are going to wear every day. They will look forward to wearing the uniforms they designed and will carry a sense of pride.
4. Can people tell someone’s personality by his or her clothes?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Of course, “Dress maketh a man.” We are indeed judged by what we wear. But this may not be applicable in all circumstances. (Give an example) For example, a brilliant guy who is working on an important project with a tight
deadline may not tend to notice much on what he is wearing to the office. But he may be the go-to person in that project. On completion of this assignment, he may concentrate on his dress. So, you cannot always judge a person by his or her clothes.
5. What colour would catch people’s attention most?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) It depends on the occasion. Dull pastel colours are appreciated in the office whereas bright colours attract attention in a party or wedding. But there is a psychology behind colours. Once upon a time, blue was considered to attract everybody. But it keeps changing.
VOCABULARY
Instill (verb) – to put a feeling, idea, or principle gradually into someone’s mind, so that it has a strong influence on the way that person thinks or behaves.
Eg: A parent must instill confidence in his kids.
Occasions (noun) – a particular time, especially when something happens or has happened
Eg: John met Kim on several occasions to discuss the partnership.
Circumstances (noun) – a fact or event that makes a situation the way it is
Eg: Under no circumstances, were the workers allowed to approach the union.
Goto person (noun) – used to describe the best person to deal with a particular problem or do a particular thing.
Eg: Ram was the go-to person in his office.
Attract (verb) – (of people, things, places, etc.) to pull or draw someone or something towards them, by the qualities they have, especially good ones
Eg: Roses attracted the little girl.
Describe something you bought but difficult to use at first
You should say:
- What it was
- Where you bought it
- How you used it successfully and how you felt about it
(What it was) I’m going to describe an item I bought but confronted a lot of difficulties in using at first, because of certain reasons. It was a Macbook Air 2018, which I set aside a lot of money to purchase for my 20th birthday. For a student like me, the price of such a high-end product was quite exorbitant. However, everything from the chassis to the user interface was beautifully designed on a Mac, so I think it was well worth the money.
(Where you bought it) It was months ago when I visited the FPT shop and chose this laptop by myself. I remember being on cloud nine when bringing it from the store to my room. At that time, I was quite overwhelmed by the size and product variety of the store, and I wished that I could be a billionaire to buy everything there. For computer buffs, the place would truly be heaven.
(How you used it successfully and how you felt about it) Excited as I was to possess such an item, I found myself experiencing certain discomfort to familiarize myself with the Mac system. The keyboard shortcuts are completely different from that of Windows. It’s easy to learn Command-C instead of Control-C, but it took me quite a while to figure out there was a shortcut for deleting a file. At that time, my work was considerably hindered, and my productivity was also affected. I remember doing a thorough search about the differences between the two systems and practised using the new laptop regularly with great determination.
Over time, I grew accustomed to using Mac and made use of it a great deal, so I feel a sense of accomplishment whenever I recall this experience.
Vocabulary from Technology:
a computer buff:
Meaning: an expert computer user
Example: I wouldn’t call myself a techie or a computer buff but I enjoy using computers.
Other vocabularies:
set aside [v]: to save something, usually money or time, for a special purpose.
Eg: He had some money in an account that he’d set aside for his kids.
exorbitant [adj]: (of prices and demands) much too large.
Eg: The hotel charges were exorbitant.
interface [n]: a point where two systems, subjects, organizations, etc., meet and interact.
Eg: The key account manager acts as the primary interface between the supplier organization and the customer.
on cloud nine [expression]: to be extremely happy and excited.
Eg: “Was Helen pleased about getting that job?” “Pleased? She was on cloud nine!”
discomfort [n]: a feeling of being uncomfortable physically or mentally, or something that causes this.
Eg: You may feel a little discomfort for a few days after the operation.
hinder [v]: to limit the ability of someone to do something, or to limit the development of something.
Eg: High winds have hindered firefighters in their efforts to put out the blaze.
familiarize [v]: give (someone) knowledge or understanding of something.
Eg: To familiarize yourself with something is to learn about it or become comfortable with it.
thorough [adj]: detailed and careful.
Eg: They did a thorough search of the area but found nothing.
(be)/ grow accustomed to [expression]: familiar with something.
Eg: She quickly became accustomed to his messy ways.
PART 3: PRODUCTS
1. What kinds of products do young people think are useful but older people may not?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, young people are often attracted to innovative gadgets, while older people often find them unnecessary. (Explain your reason or reasons) As I see it, most seniors find using technological devices an arduous task. Many products and services are not appropriate to the needs of older users, exacerbating the sense of frustration and leading to a dependence on other people (Give an example (often a personal example)) )) For example, my grandmother often turns to my sister and me for help with her smartphones, because she is not familiar with the keyboards.
2. Do you think product instructions are useful for users to use products better?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, I think they are. (Explain your reason or reasons) The instruction manual is one of the most important sets of details provided to the customer. Its sole purpose is to ensure the customers uses the product properly. Clear artwork should be provided to the supplier at the time of the purchase order.
3. What do you usually do if you don’t know how to use the things you have bought?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I would try to figure out how to use it instead of leaving it behind. (Explain your reason or reasons) Normally, I would do a thorough search about the item and practice using it with great determination. Of course, I have experienced certain discomforts with complicated products, but in most cases, I managed to familiarize myself with them.
4. Do you think it is necessary to produce many new products nowadays?
(Give a direct answer to the question) It is quite necessary nowadays. (Explain your reason or reasons) Regarding economic merits, customers now can enjoy inexpensive purchases of diverse types of goods, which is particularly favourable for households with limited financial backgrounds. Also, the availability of more low-priced products offers consumers more spending choices and boosts overall consumption.
Vocabulary from Technology:
gadget
Meaning: a technological tool like a mobile phone or camera
Example: Such a gadget would help you considerably in studying.
Other vocabularies:
arduous [adj]: difficult, needing a lot of effort and energy.
Eg: In those days, a trip to the West was an arduous journey.
exacerbate [v]: to make something that is already bad even worse
Eg: This attack will exacerbate the already tense relations between the two communities.
properly [adv]: correctly, or in a satisfactory way.
Eg: I’m not properly dressed for this kind of weather.
thorough [adj]: detailed and careful.
Eg: They did a thorough search of the area but found nothing.
discomfort [n]: a feeling of being uncomfortable physically or mentally, or something that causes this.
Eg: You may feel a little discomfort for a few days after the operation.
familiarize [v]: give (someone) knowledge or understanding of something.
Eg: To familiarize yourself with something is to learn about it or become comfortable with it.
favourable [adj]: to the advantage of someone or something.
Eg: Old, mature fig trees can grow at least 40 feet tall in favorable climates.
background [n]: the conditions that existed before a particular event happened, and that help to explain why it happened.
Eg: These decisions have had to be made against a background of high unemployment.
Describe an interesting animal you have ever seen
You should say:
- What it was
- Where you saw it
- What it did
- And why you think it was interesting
(What it was) I’m going to talk about an occasion on which I got to see elephants. I have had the chance to see a lot of animals with my naked eyes, but the most intriguing one for me are intelligent elephants. Elephants are mammals as well as herbivores, meaning they only eat plants rather than meat.
Elephants are the largest land animals on earth, and they’re one of the most unique-looking animals, too. With their characteristic long noses, or trunks; large, floppy ears; and wide, thick legs, there is no other animal with a similar physique.
(Where you saw it) It was last summer when my whole family had a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, and we decided to visit the city’s renowned zoo, Thao Cam Vien. It was ranked eighth among the oldest zoos in the world. It is 132 years old. It is the house to rare orchids, ornamental plants and hundreds of species of mammals, reptiles and birds. The main aim of Thao Cam Vien is to conserve animals and plants, especially endangered species and educate the public. One way to protect these species is by using breeding programs.
(What it did) I got the chance to see a group of elephants swimming, which is entirely unexpected for me as I didn’t know that they have this ability. Elephants move all four legs to swim and can move quite fast. Their giant bodies provide enough flotation while the trunk acts as a snorkel. From my observation, baby elephants enjoy playing in the water. They will often try to climb on the backs of older and bigger elephants and then splash back into the water. Calves will suck water into their trunks and spray at each other playfully.
(And why you think it was interesting) Elephants feature many characteristics that are similar to humans. Apart from their gigantic bodies, they also boast extraordinary memories. Besides, they are recognized as being among the most intelligent creatures on earth. Elephants are capable of a range of emotions, including joy, playfulness, grief and mourning. Also, elephants can learn new facts and behaviours, mimic sounds that they hear, self-medicate, play with a sense of humour, perform artistic activities, use tools and display compassion and self-awareness.
Vocabulary from Environment:
endangered species
Meaning: categories of animals or plants that are in danger of becoming extinct Example: Many tourists expressed their concern about the increasing rate of endangered species in this zoo.
Other vocabularies:
with one’s naked eyes [expression]: without using any special device for making images larger.
Eg: We live miles away, but on a clear night, you can see the city skyscrapers with the naked eye.
herbivores [n]: an animal that eats only plants.
Eg: Cows and sheep are herbivores.
physique [n]: the form, size, and development of a person’s body.
Eg: By 1540, Henry had become fat and he had lost the muscular physique he had when he was younger.
ornamental [adj]: beautiful rather than useful.
Eg: The handles on each side of the box are purely ornamental
conserve [v]: protect (something, especially an environmentally or culturally important place or thing) from harm or destruction.
Eg: As a result, their main impulse is to conserve wilderness from destruction by humans.
snorkel[n]: a short-curved tube for a swimmer to breathe through while keeping the face under water.
Eg: But yesterday he donned his snorkel and flippers to defend his title as World Champion Bog Snorkeller.
gigantic [adj]: of very great size or extent; huge or enormous.
Eg: The hunt for a house has been a gigantic part of my life for the last year so I’m bound to feel as if there’s something missing.
grief [v]: deep sorrow, especially that caused by someone’s death.
Eg: Grief over a traumatic death does not follow an accepted timeline.
mimic [v]: imitate (someone or their actions or words), typically in order to entertain or ridicule.
Eg: I’ve just mimicked him all my life, so he was a herpetologist, one who studies reptiles.
compassion [n]: sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
Eg: After supping her fill of horrors, her capacity to feel compassion was deeply affected.
PART 3: ANIMALS
1. How do you like taking care of animals?
(Give a direct answer to the question) To me, taking care of animals is an arduous task. Besides providing all the necessary things, like food, water, shelter and safety, you also need to provide quality health care for them. I am not an animal lover. I get frightened by different kinds of animals due to my experiences with them, and the only kind that I feel comfortable to be with are birds. (Give an example (often a personal example)) I admire them for their beautiful voices and the unique ability to fly.
2. What kinds of pets are most popular in Iran?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Iranian people love their pets, especially dogs. They appreciate dogs for the company and the loyalty they provide. You could find a dog, a cat or a cow being owned by an Iranian family. It is not for any monetary reasons but because they like being surrounded by animals and taking great care of them. Animals do bring a certain amount of happiness and togetherness in a family. (Explain the opposite or alternative) Fishes are other common pets in Iran even though they don’t do much for their owners. Besides, some foreigners are surprised to know that birds and reptiles are prefered by many Iranians.
3. What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of having a pet?
(Give a direct answer to the question) On the one hand, having domesticated animals at home is interesting. Some people decide to own pets because they need a companion at home. Playing with pets is a kind of refreshment. (Explain the opposite or alternative) On the other hand, the disadvantages of having pets relate mostly to the responsibility of caring for them. Pet owners must discharge their duties responsibly by feeding these animals with proper food, exercising them and ensuring they get medical treatment, as well as the required yearly vaccination.
Vocabulary:
arduous [adj]: involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring.
Eg: Before becoming a Mass server one had to learn the Latin responses and this was a long and arduous task.
shelter [n]: a place giving temporary protection from bad weather or danger.
Eg: A year after the earthquake that devastated Gujarat, local people still live in tents or temporary shelters.
particular [adj]: special, or this and not any other.
Eg: In the light of recent incidents, we are asking our customers to take particular care of their personal belongings.
appreciate [v]: to recognize how good someone or something is and to value him, her, or it.
Eg: There’s no point buying him expensive wines – he doesn’t appreciate them.
surround [v]: to be everywhere around something.
Eg: She said that she wanted to die surrounded by the people she loves
togetherness [n]: the pleasant feeling of being united with other people in friendship and understanding.
Eg: War had given to the community a greater sense of togetherness.
reptile [n]: an animal that produces eggs and uses the heat of the sun to keep its blood warm.
Eg: Reptiles are cold-blooded animals – they need the sun to stay warm.
domesticated [adj]: (of an animal) tame and kept as a pet or on a farm.
Eg: However, milk-producing ruminant animals were domesticated about 10,000 years ago, according to archaeological evidence.
refreshment [n]: the fact of making somebody feel stronger or less tired or hot.
Eg: Minh is trying to find a place for rest and refreshment.
vaccination [n]: the process or an act of giving someone a vaccine (= a substance put into a person’s body to prevent them getting a disease).
Eg: All the children were given two vaccinations against measles.
Describe an important text message you received
You should say,
- what it was
- when you got it
- who you got it from
- and explain what you did after reading it
(what it was) (when you got it) ( who you got it from) This is the era of smartphones. But some people still use messaging services. My aunt is one of them. She is a retired customs officer. She has a daughter who has moved to the US. I was so fond of her from my childhood, mainly because my mum influenced me to think highly of her. Last month, my phone beeped. When I looked at it, it was a message from my aunt. She had typed that since she needed to take a steroid injection for which she will be anaesthetized, she needed someone to help her in the hospital at 3:00 PM, to hold her belongings and to attend to the request of the nurses.
( explain what you did after reading it) I never gave a second thought. I immediately replied saying I’ll be there at her home in the next half-an-hour and we could go to the hospital together. I dressed up and rushed to my parking area, picked up my two-wheeler and hurried to her place. I was there
by 1:00 PM. She greeted me with herbal tea. She was 70 and seemed a bit worried about the injection procedure. I comforted her, eased her tension, ensured that I would be there all along and would drop her home. I could see that she felt better. I accompanied her to the hospital, and waited until the entire procedure got over. She regained consciousness by 6:00 PM. The doctor immediately discharged her. Then I dropped her home and stayed with her till 9:00 PM and got back home by 10:00 PM. I felt very happy to have got a chance to help her.
VOCABULARY
Smartphone (noun) – a mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a computer, typically having a touchscreen interface, Internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded apps.
Eg: She bought a brand new smartphone out of her first salary.
Beeped (verb) – (of a horn or electronic device) produce a beep (a short, high-pitched sound emitted by electronic equipment or a vehicle horn.).
Eg: The phone beeped loudly.
Text message (noun) – an electronic communication sent and received by mobile phone.
Eg: She sent a text message to her boyfriend.
Discharged (verb) – tell (someone) officially that they can or must leave a place or situation.
Eg: She was discharged from hospital after three days of her surgery.
Part 3
1. How do people in India deliver important information?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Most people in India use email nowadays. (Explain your reason or reasons) As smartphones are available to everyone, people use apps like WhatsApp to deliver important messages. There are some exceptions who write letters too.
2. Are traditional paper mails valued in the present days?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) They are used only by people who do not have access to the latest technology. The concept of traditional paper mails has become outdated. Even in rural areas, people prefer electronic mails over paper mails. They are handwritten, which makes them very special. Apart from this, they don’t carry any other significance.
3. Have our ways to communicate with each other changed in recent years?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, there is a drastic change. (Explain your reason or reasons) Earlier, people used handwritten letters or typed them in a typewriter. It took a considerable amount of time to reach the intended person. Nowadays, email reaches the recipient in no time. Electronic mails have made communication easy.
4. What are the advantages of sending messages via social applications?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) It helps people to stay connected. (Give an example) For example, a person may be working in a company in India, and his friend in school may be living in Australia. It is social media that helps them to communicate efficiently. They can share photos of families, trips that they have been to, chat, or make video calls. So social media helps both of them to be updated on what each other is doing.
5. What is the information that cannot be communicated via text messages?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Certain confidential information related to Military secrets cannot be shared via text messages. There are many hackers, and one can even probe information bypassing the encryption protocols.
VOCABULARY
Letters (noun) – a written message from one person to another, usually put in an envelope and sent by post
Eg: Sita wrote a letter to the bank.
Access (noun) – the right or opportunity to use or look at something
Eg: The internet cafe gave limited access to its customers
Typewriter (noun) – a machine with keys that you press to produce letters and numbers on paper
Eg: The Company still uses a typewriter.
Confidential (adj) – secret or private, often in a formal, business, or military situation
Eg: The manager discussed some confidential information with Sam.
Encryption (noun) – the process of changing electronic information or signals into a secret code (= system of letters, numbers, or symbols) that people cannot understand or use without special equipment
Eg: The ATM uses secure encryption software that enables secure money transactions.
Describe a performance you watched recently
You should say:
- What it was and when you watched it
- Who you were with?
- And explain why you watched it
(What it was a when you watched it) Well, when it comes to watching live performances or music shows, the very experience that springs to my mind is the play ‘Romeo & Juliet’ by William Shakespeare that I enjoyed at the city theatre three years ago. Romeo and Juliet is a play written by William Shakespeare. The setting is in Italy and is about the love between two young people from noble families that are enemies. “Romeo and Juliet” has always been one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays. It has also been adapted to opera, ballet, television productions, and movies.
(Who you were with) I watched this play with my closest friend, Jennie. At that time, we were studying for a Masters Degree in London in the same university, and when we heard that a team would come to London to perform “Romeo and Juliet”, we planned to watch it without hesitation. It was quite cumbersome to book the tickets as the play was so popular, but we managed eventually.
(And explain why you watched it) Several factors made this play a worth-watching theatrical performance. The professional acting, captivating dialogues, intense romantic tale, wrenching separation and the tragic twist of the tale made the play unforgettable. The costumes of the performers were just the way they should be. Their dresses, stage, music, their makeup, their accent, and the passionate acting created the illusion of the real Romeo-Juliet era. The production and acting were superb and worthy of commendation. I still remember a news article which acclaimed the actors, and actresses of the London team for their professionalism.
Vocabulary
the setting: where the action takes place
Example: It’s a historical novel and the setting was a fictional town called Casterbridge.
when it comes to [expression]: as for something; speaking about something.
Eg: When it comes to fishing, John is an expert.
spring to mind [expression]: to come quickly into your mind.
Eg: Say the word “Australia” and a vision of beaches and blue seas immediately springs to mind.
noble [adj]: (especially in former times) a person of noble rank or birth.
Eg: The great nobles essentially use poets and poetry in the early seventeenth century to wage a war of prestige.
adapt [v]: make (something) suitable for a new use or purpose; modify.
Eg: Davies is busy adapting Brinkworth’s latest novel for television.
without hesitation [expression]: if you say that someone does something without hesitation, you are emphasizing that they do it immediately and willingly.
Eg: The great majority of players would, of course, sign the contract without hesitation.
cumbersome [adj]: difficult to do or manage and taking a lot of time and effort.
Eg: Critics say that the process for amending the Constitution is cumbersome, but others defend it.
captivating [adj]: holding your attention by being extremely interesting, exciting, pleasant, or attractive.
Eg: Her voice was utterly/absolutely captivating.
wrenching [adj]: extremely stressful.
Eg: It was the most wrenching decision of the president’s life.
passionate [adj]: having very strong feelings or emotions.
Eg: The child’s mother made a passionate plea for help.
commendation [n]: praise, or an official statement that praises someone.
Eg: Several of the firefighters received commendation for their bravery.
PART 3: WATCHING PERFORMANCE
1. What’s the difference between watching the performance live and watching it on TV?
(Give a direct answer to the question) In my opinion, attending a live performance and watching a TV broadcast are two completely different ways of fun. (Give an example (often a personal example)) As we all know; live exhibitions and events are festive occasions. Think about the claps, cheers, hoots, hollering, laughter and song along with a live performance which is absent when watched on a TV set. It creates a recreational aura whereby people forget the hurdles of life and upheave their morals. In other words, these occasions are best suited for extroverts, social people, who enjoy the crowd.
2. Which do you prefer: traditional performance or concert?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, a concert would be my choice. (Explain your reason or reasons) Seeing your favourite band, artist or DJ is such a life-changing and exhilarating experience. (Give an example (often a personal example)) If you’ve ever been to a concert, you’ll know the sense of togetherness you get from the rest of the crowd. Out of a huge crowd, every single fan is there for the same reason, and when the crowd erupts for the artist or a favourite song, it’s a sense of community you won’t get anywhere else.
3. Should the government provide financial support to promote traditional performance?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, I reckon so. (Explain your reason or reasons) The gradual decline of traditional performances is at the expense of national culture. Therefore, the government should give financial incentives to traditional artists to preserve the diversity of traditional forms of entertainment.
4. ls learning drama or dancing helpful for children?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, it is (Explain your reason or reasons) Art instruction helps children with the development of motor skills, musical talent, language skills, social skills, decision-making, risk-taking, and inventiveness. Besides, art education connects students with their own culture as well as with the wider world.
Vocabulary
extrovert
Meaning: an energetic person who likes the company of others
Example: I’d say I tend to be an extrovert.
Vocabulary from Music:
musical talent
Meaning: skilled at music
Example: Her musical talent is beyond imagination.
Other vocabulary:
aura [n]: the distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place.
Eg: There was an aura of pride surrounding him, a glow that made him look happy and that ended up making me feel a little better too.
exhilarating [adj]: making you feel very excited and happy.
Eg: Hong Kong in the late seventies was an exhilarating place to be.
togetherness [n]: the state of being close to another person or other people.
Eg: The sense of family togetherness was strong in the past.
at the expense of [expression]: in a way that harms (something or someone).
Eg: Malls flourished at the expense of small stores downtown.
incentive [n]: something that encourages you to do something.
Eg: In my country, there is literally no incentive for people to save fuel.
preserve [v]: maintain (something) in its original or existing state.
Eg: We need to preserve our liberties as free citizens.
Describe a time you couldn’t use the mobile phone
You should say:
- When it was and where it was
- Why you could not use your mobile phone
- How you felt about it
(When it was and where it was) I’m going to describe a time when I didn’t use the mobile phone. Well, I was not allowed to use it. During our math lessons in 12th grade in high school, the teacher decided to ban mobile phones, considering its adverse impacts on students’ performance. At first, she wasn’t set in her ways to impose such a strict rule. However, on second thoughts, she believed that banning mobile phones would benefit all the students.
(Why you could not use your mobile phone) Our teacher was convinced that such a gadget would always generate distractions among students, discouraging their learning spirit. Indeed, this was the case for many. In my class, those who owned a mobile phone could hardly pay full attention as they were constantly checking their phones for messages and the like. As a result, our teachers found it problematic and disturbing when students were using phones in their class, and we ended up not being able to bring cellphones to school at all. If anyone needed to call their parents, they could use the telephone in the supervisor’s room.
(How you felt about it) Honestly, at that time, the price of mobile phones was beyond my means; therefore, only the rich could afford them. This rule exerted no effects on me or my studying. Still, many of my friends felt irritated because they had grown accustomed to performing calculations with a cell phone instead of a calculator.
Vocabulary from Technology:
gadget
Meaning: a technological tool like a mobile phone or camera
Example: Such a gadget would help you considerably in studying.
Other vocabulary:
adverse [adj]: preventing success or development; harmful; unfavorable.
Eg: Of course, there is also the adverse publicity that could dog them for years to come.
set in one’s ways [expression]: to do the same things every day and to not want to change those habits.
Eg: As people get older, they often become set in their ways.
on second thoughts [expression]: used when you want to change a decision you have made:
Eg: Can I have a cup of coffee, please? – actually, on second thoughts, I’ll have a beer.
in the interest of [expression]: to the advantage or advancement of
Eg: New students may be accommodated in halls of residence in the interest of the school.
distraction (n): something that prevents someone from giving their attention to something else:
Eg: You can turn the television off if you find it a distraction.
accordingly [adv]: in a way that suits the situation:
Eg: They accordingly stressed that the unqualified trust in reason could dangerously erode this relationship.
worrisome (adj): worrying.
Eg: Alcohol and tobacco consumption by young people is especially worrisome because habits formed early are likely to persist.
beyond one’s means (expression): Too costly for one, more than one can afford.
Eg: A second vacation this year is well beyond our means.
(be)/ grow accustomed to [expression]: familiar with something.
Eg: She quickly became accustomed to his messy ways.
calculation (n): a mathematical determination of the size or number of something.
Eg: A calculation is a deliberate process that transforms one or more inputs into one or more results, with variable change.
PART 3: PHONES
1. Do you think it is necessary to have laws on the use of mobile phones?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, this issue is quite complicated. (Explain your reason or reasons) From my perspective, cell phone usage should be restricted in public places. For example, it would be rude to answer your phone in a restaurant and talk to the other person because it would interrupt other peoples’ dates or dinners or get-togethers. Or in places like the library, theatre, and especially in class while listening to a lecture, it can be very disruptive when someone next to you starts using his/her cell phone.
2. How do you like children having mobile phones?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I disapprove of this, as having a cellphone would affect their academic performances. (Explain your reason or reasons) Such a gadget would continuously generate great distractions among students during class and discourage their learning spirit. Indeed, this has been the case for many. (Give an example) When I was in secondary school, those who owned a mobile phone could hardly pay full attention as they were constantly checking their phones for messages and the like. As a result, our teachers found it problematic and disturbing when students were using phones in their class, and we ended up not being able to bring cellphones to school at all.
3. At what age should children have mobile phones?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Those above the age of 16 can probably have mobile phones (Explain your reason or reasons) Children below the age of sixteen should not be given mobile phones since their brain is too sensitive to withstand the effects of mobile radiation. Under the absorption of radiation, children can have adverse health issues. Adults are also affected by the radiation, but it will be more consequential in children because of the increased absorption of these radiation levels.
Vocabulary from Technology:
gadget
Meaning: a technological tool like a mobile phone or camera
Example: Such a gadget would help you considerably in studying.
Other vocabularies:
for the sake of [expression]: in order to help or bring advantage to someone.
Eg: If you do something for the sake of something, you do it for that purpose or in order to achieve that result.
distraction (n): something that prevents someone from giving their attention to something else:
Eg: You can turn the television off if you find it a distraction.
accordingly [adv]: in a way that suits the situation:
Eg: They accordingly stressed that the unqualified trust in reason could dangerously erode this relationship.
in the interest of [expression]: to the advantage or advancement of
Eg: New students may be accommodated in halls of residence in the interest of the school.
adverse [adj]: preventing success or development; harmful; unfavorable
Eg: Of course, there is also the adverse publicity that could dog them for years to come.
withstand [v]: remain undamaged or unaffected by; resist.
Eg: The structure had been designed to withstand winds of more than 100 mph
Describe a time you were sleepy but had to stay awake
You should say
- When it was
- Why you had to stay awake
- How you kept yourself awake
- And explain how you felt about it
(When):
I consider myself a night owl; therefore, having a white night is not difficult for me. Today, I would like to talk about a night I had to stay awake, to bake the Chung Cake for Lunar New Year.
(Why you had to stay awake):
You probably know that Tet or Lunar New Year is one of the biggest festivals in Vietnam. There are a lot of activities taking place before the Lunar New Year, and baking Chung Cake is one of them, which excites me the most. However, the process of making Chung cake is time-consuming and requires the contribution of several people. It takes up to 12 hours for the cake to be baked.
Therefore, my cousins and I had to spend the whole night preparing the cake.
(How you kept yourself awake):
To stop falling asleep while waiting for the Chung Cake to be baked, I drank a cup of Vietnamese black-iced coffee, which kept me awake, the whole night. Moreover, my cousins also spent a white night with me, and we kept talking until dawn.
(And explain how you felt about it):
After the cake had been baked, I became worn out and wanted to hit the bed as quick as possible. I had to say that I slept like a rock after having a white night. However, it was a memorable experience for me. I fondly recall the traditional activities of Tet and the time spent with family members.
Part 3 questions:
1. What are some advantages to getting enough sleep?
Sleep plays a vital role in shaping people’s health. It helps us recharge our energy after a nerve-wracking day, avoids being overloaded. For example, an 8-hour sleep is believed to help people work efficiently and boost their productivity. If people don’t get enough sleep, they can find it difficult to concentrate on their tasks.
2. How do people in your country keep track of their sleep?
I believe that in this day and age, people in my country can take advantage of cutting-edge devices to be aware of their sleep. Such applications have been invented to analyze their sleep patterns and even give them some recommendations such as listening to the ocean waves or raindrops, which will help them sleep better. If it were not for those applications, they might not know what problems they are facing.
3. How do you avoid falling asleep when you are at a meeting?
I think that the critical factor which keeps people awake in a meeting is that they should go to bed earlier than usual, else the tiredness caused due to insufficient sleep will drain their energy the next day. Moreover, caffeine may also be another option to help people avoid nodding off in the
meeting. For example, I usually drink a cup of coffee before going to work, which keeps me charged all day.
OTHER VOCABULARY
A night owl
Meaning: A person who prefers to be awake and active at night
Example: My wife’s a night owl, but I like to be in bed by 10 o’clock.
A white night
Meaning: A sleepless night.
Example: I had a white night because of a stomach ache
Time-consuming
Meaning: Takes a lot of time to do
Example: Producing a dictionary is a very time-consuming job.
To fall asleep
Meaning: To begin sleeping
Example: I’d better get out before I fall asleep.
Worn out
Meaning: Extremely tired
Example: They were worn out after their long walk.
Sleep like a rock
Meaning: To experience a very deep and restful sleep; to sleep soundly.
Example: I have to set numerous alarms for the morning because I sleep like a rock every night!
Nerve-wracking
Meaning: difficult to do and causes a lot of worry for the person involved in it
Example: My wedding was the most nerve-racking thing I’ve ever experienced.
Overload
Meaning: To give someone more work or problems than they can deal with
Example: Try not to overload yourself with work.
Analyze
Meaning: To examine carefully and in detail so as to identify causes, key factors, possible results
Example: In the article, several experienced diplomats analyzed the president’s foreign policy.
Drain (someone or something) of (something)
Meaning: To cause someone or something to lose some ability or quality, often energy. Example: Eleanor has such a pessimistic attitude that being around her just drains me of energy.
Nod off
Meaning: To begin sleeping, especially not intentionally
Example: After our busy day, we both sat and nodded off in front of the TV.
Describe a recent goal you set yourself
You should say,
- what it was
- why you wanted it
- what you did to get your goal
- And explain how you felt about it
(what it was) ( why you wanted it) I seldom make new year resolutions because I don’t have the determination to make them come true. So I’m usually very far from setting goals. But I did get a demanding situation in my life, where I had to take serious steps. It was my weight gain. Due to lack
of physical activity, I gained 5 kgs which I noticed when my clothes did not fit properly. I was not able to put on my favourite dresses, and I became worried. So I decided to work out a plan to get rid of the 5 kgs.
(what you did to get your goal) As a first step, I decided to fight against my sugar cravings. I searched the internet, left, right and centre and found some useful tips from a nutritionist. I learnt that it is because of protein deficiency that a person craves for sweets. So I decided to cut my breakfast and replaced it with a protein smoothie. Then I consulted a physician, who advised me to do yoga. He warned that I could see results, only gradually. I joined a yoga class and stuck to the schedule religiously. Every morning, I got up at 5:00 AM in the morning, because the class was at 5:30 AM. Previously, I used to sleep at ungodly hours when I had to meet my deadlines at work. I focused more on my work and tried to complete the work within office hours. Since I had my yoga classes in the morning, I made it a habit to wake up early. I spent about an hour at the yoga class. The yoga teacher enlightened me on the importance of sleep and also advised me to cut down on my caffeine intake. She advised me to go to bed on time because it was needed for the repair of the muscles. (explain how you felt about it) Surprisingly, I began to get results within a month. The first that improved was the fat on my cheeks. I was not chubby cheeks anymore! I noticed that my body became flexible as a result of yoga. I was confident that I would shed my 5kgs soon, and it did happen after six months. At last, I achieved something, and I was on cloud nine when I got out of the weighing machine at the hospital. I thanked my doctor for his guidance.
VOCABULARY
Resolutions (noun) – a firm decision to do or not to do something.
Eg: She made a resolution to stop eating chocolates.
Determination (noun) – the quality of being determined; firmness of purpose.
Eg: She succeeded in becoming a Singer because of her determination.
Gradually (adverb) – in a gradual way; slowly; by degrees.
Eg: The saint assured him that his situation would improve gradually.
Religiously (adverb) – with consistent and conscientious regularity.
Eg: He works out religiously for five hours everyday.
Being on Cloud nine (noun phrase) – Blissfully happy
Eg: Ever since the marriage was fixed, she was on cloud nine.
PART 3
1. Do people need to write down goals or simply memorize them?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Writing helps. (Explain your reason or reasons) When a person puts down his thoughts in writing, he gains more insight into it. As you write, you get more ideas, and later they serve as a reference. At moments of exhaustion, when we feel like giving up, these notes help. They serve as a driving factor.
2. Do Indian people usually set goals?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, a lot of them set goals. (Explain your reason or reasons) Most Indians are very resolute when it comes to achieving what they want. Mostly, goals will be related to the creation of wealth. Indians not only set goals but also work hard until it is materialized. (Give an example) A clear example of this would be the number of Indian students studying abroad. They have set goals for themselves during their period of study here, pursued them seriously, and also were successful in making them come true.
3. What are the kinds of goals that are unrealistic?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Goals that are beyond the person’s capability and passion are unrealistic. (Give an example) For example, an average student hailing from a middle-class family cannot dream about getting into a top university without a scholarship. Scholarships are reserved for high performers, and fees would be unaffordable. It will be an unrealistic goal.
4. What is more fulfilling working towards a goal or achieving it?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Both of them equally fulfilling. When working towards a goal, one may encounter a lot of hurdles, and overcoming them builds confidence. The person gets one step closer to the goal. After achieving the goal, it is a sense of accomplishment. The person will become more confident and will be ready to face more challenges.
5. Should parents set goals for their children?
(Give a direct answer to the question) No. (Explain your reason or reasons) Parents should help children achieve their goals. But the goals should be set by their children. (Give an example) For example, if the child has a passion for life Sciences, then his goal would be to become a doctor as a teenager. The parent can help the child by paying the fees. But if the parent has already set a goal that his child should become a marine Engineer and forces the kid to pursue it, then the outcome may not be positive.
VOCABULARY
Reference (noun) – the use of a source of information to ascertain something.
Eg: He used the poetries of Wordsworth for reference.
Give up (phrasal verb) – cease making an effort; admit defeat.
Eg: Due to political pressure, he gave up his efforts of establishing a school in the area
Encounter (verb) – unexpectedly be faced with or experience (something hostile or difficult).
Eg: The computer scientists encountered a strange problem called Y2K.
Unrealistic (adj) – not realistic [realistic(adj) – having or showing a sensible and practical idea of what can be achieved or expected]
Eg: It is unrealistic to expect an overnight change in Tom’s behavior.
Outcome (noun) – the way a thing turns out; a consequence.
Eg: It is easy to predict the outcome of the meeting.
Describe a practical skill you learned
You should say,
- what it was
- how you learned it
- why you learned it
- and explain how you felt about
(what it was) I learned to drive.
(how you learned it) (why you learned it) I take a bus to my office every day. My office starts at 10:00 AM in the morning, but I start from home at 8:00 AM. The bus stop is a fifteen-minute walk from my house. After reaching there, I had to wait for a minimum of ten minutes for my bus to arrive. It was a journey of 15 minutes. Upon alighting, I had to walk about 15 minutes to reach my office. This was a very tiring exercise. So I decided to learn to ride a two-wheeler. Though I was scared of the traffic in the city, the dull daily routine of boarding the bus made me stubborn. My determination to ride a two-wheeler increased day by day. I requested my neighbour to teach me to ride. He gladly agreed to it. Initially, I fell down, not being able to bear the weight of the vehicle.
After the initial hiccups, he finally succeeded in teaching me how to control the throttle. I was able to drive.
(explain how you felt about it) I felt like I was driving a celestial vehicle. I got used to the roads, its speed breakers, and my balance improved day by day. I developed a sense of pride. My confidence increased. I felt like a new human being altogether. I enjoyed it whenever I finished my ride successfully. It was a sense of accomplishment. As days passed by, I was able to get more balance and was enjoying it even as I was driving. I got rid of my road fears completely. Nowadays, I start from my home at 9:30 AM only. So I have plenty of time to do other things.
VOCABULARY
Drive (verb) – operate and control the direction and speed of a motor vehicle.operate and control the direction and speed of a motor vehicle.
Eg: She learnt to drive the vehicle.
Hiccups (noun) – a temporary or minor problem or setback.
Eg: He just had a bit of hiccups in his otherwise wonderful service.
Throttle (noun) – a device controlling the flow of fuel or power to an engine.
Eg: The bike was in its full throttle.
Speed breaker (noun) – a speed bump.
Eg: Speed breakers can help reduce the accidents.
Part 3
1. What age will make it difficult for a person to learn a skill?
(Give a direct answer to the question) In my perception, there is no age limit for learning. (Explain your reason or reasons) Some people read newspapers at the age of 80. Also, it depends on how important that skill is for them. But I agree that under normal conditions, as a person gets older, he or she may develop some health problems that may reduce their capacity to concentrate.
2. Will the age of 5 or 20 be better?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) I feel age five would be better to acquire any skill. (Give an example) For example, I have seen singers and dancers train their kids from the age of 3. They become masters at a very early age of 15.
At 5, you are flexible, and your mind is more capable of absorbing things.
3. What is the difference between children learning what they like and learning what they have to learn?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Kids must go to school and get a good grasp of Maths, Science, and Languages. But, when they find it difficult to learn these, the parents have to identify their inborn talent. If allowed to pursue, they may shine in it.
4. Do you like to learn new skills constantly?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, of course. I would love to. (Explain your reason or reasons) I recently learnt how to play the guitar. I also learnt a new computer language called Python. It is refreshing when you learn it and fills you with a sense of accomplishment when you have finished learning it.
5. Why do boys tend to have better critical thinking skills?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I don’t think so. It does not vary based on gender. (Explain your reason or reasons) Instead, it varies from person to person. It may vary between boys and girls. Also, there is no scientific evidence that boys have better critical thinking skills.
VOCABULARY
Age limit (noun) – is the oldest or youngest age at which you are allowed under particular regulations to do something.
Eg: There is no age limit to join the actor’s fans club
Acquire (verb) – learn or develop (a skill, habit, or quality).
Eg: You must acquire the fundamentals of Grammar.
Master (adj) – having or showing very great skill or proficiency.
Eg: Raman became a master in dance at the age of twelve.
Refreshing (adj) – welcome or stimulating because new or different.
Eg: It was a refreshing walk in the garden.
Proof (noun) – evidence or argument establishing a fact or the truth of a statement.
Eg: There was no proof of his crime.
Describe a difficult challenge you met
You should say:
- What it was
- When you met it
- Where you met it
- And explain why you think it is a challenge
(What it was) Today I’m going to describe a challenge I confronted recently. I usually go out for a walk in the evening every day and sometimes play some outdoor games. Still, the outdoor activity that I did for the first time last month was mountain climbing which was of another level of difficulty.
(When you met it and where you met it) At that time, after completing the arduous end-of-term examination, I was invited by a friend to go climbing on a mountain. He’d been doing it for about six months, and I had asked him about it once as I was curious whether mountain climbing requires a lot of stamina. At that time, I wanted to get away from it all and preferred going somewhere off the beaten track. I accepted his request without hesitation and even bought some suitable clothes for this activity. It was great fun.
Although I was a little scared at first, apprehensive, to be exact, my special instructor was experienced, and I started practising on the ground and very low on the wall to gain confidence. However, the reality did not seem that easy, as the route to reach the mountain peak was in twists and turns. We almost felt the terminal point was approaching, but it was endless. I got a little exhausted and had to lean against a tree. My friend encouraged me to hold on, take a deep breath and only think about the mountain peak to continue to climb.
(And explain why you think it is a challenge) Well, first of all, it was a wholly new and somehow adventurous experience for me. Climbing a mountain is as similar as overcoming each obstacle in your life. When I reached the top of the mountain, I felt a great sense of refreshment and my mind was momentarily away from all burdens and other distractions. Though undeniably exciting, mountain climbing requires a level of advanced preparation and physical fitness that few other activities can equal. I have gained more confidence after conquering such a demanding challenge.
Vocabulary from Holiday:
to get away from it all:
Meaning: to take a holiday to escape a busy or stressful lifestyle
Example: How can I get away from it all and just simply relax at the end of the day?
off the beaten track:
Meaning: in or into an isolated place
Example: The farmhouse we stayed in was completely off the beaten track.
Other vocabularies:
confront [v]: to face, meet, or deal with a difficult situation or person.
Eg: It’s an issue we’ll have to confront at some point, no matter how unpleasant it is.
arduous [adj]: difficult, needing a lot of effort and energy.
Eg: Domestic work remained especially arduous since, even in the 1970s, a large part of rural housing lacked basic amenities.
stamina [n]: the physical and/or mental strength to do something that might be difficult and will take a long time.
Eg: The triathlon is a great test of stamina.
without hesitation [expression]: if you say that someone does something without hesitation, you are emphasizing that they do it immediately and willingly.
Eg: The great majority of players would, of course, sign the contract without hesitation.
apprehensive [adj]: feeling worried about something that you are going to do or that is going to happen.
Eg: I’m very apprehensive about tomorrow’s meeting.
twist and turns [expression]: curves and frequent changes of direction.
Eg: The road through the mountains has many twists and turns.
adventurous [adj]: exciting and often dangerous.
Eg: Instead of staying in the hotel all the time, we wanted to go out and be adventurous.
refreshment [n]: the fact of making somebody feel stronger or less tired or hot.
Eg: Minh is trying to find a place for rest and refreshment.
distraction (n): something that prevents someone from giving their attention to something else:
Eg: You can turn the television off if you find it a distraction.
equal [v]: to achieve the same standard or level as someone else, or the same standard or level as you did before.
Eg: We raised over $500 for charity last year and we’re hoping to equal that this year.
PART 3: CHALLENGES
1. Do you think parents should give kids challenges?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, I do think so, and the reasons are manifold. (Explain your reason or reasons) Young people must be pushed by their parents to be the best they can be, in whatever pursuit they take part in (Give an example (often a personal example)) Challenges and cut-throat competition prepare children for the real world. If you want a good job or a good salary, you have to compete with others.
2. What challenges do you think children might have to face up to? What is the most challenging thing for kids?
(Give a direct answer to the question) There are many difficulties youngsters are presented nowadays. (Explain your reason or reasons) For me, they are under intense pressure to find a productive place within society – either within the mainstream education system or satisfactory employment. The emphasis on acquiring accomplishments, status and wealth at a young age is by no means easy for them.
3. Can parents reduce the challenges that kids have? Why?
(Give a direct answer to the question) They should, to a certain extent. (Explain your reason or reasons) They should adequately ensure that their children, foremost, have fun, which will encourage them to stay interested and motivated in the achievement activity. Otherwise, by providing their children with challenges in which they are overmatched, parents may be inadvertently inhibiting, rather than facilitating, their interest, achievement, and enjoyment in the activity.
Vocabulary from Business:
cut-throat competition Meaning: intense competition
Example: Entering the national football team is a cut-throat competition for all.
Other vocabularies:
manifold [adj]: many and of several different types.
Eg: Despite her manifold faults, she was a strong leader.
pursuit [n]: the action of following or pursuing someone or something.
Eg: All those who ran or walked the first fixture collected three points and will now have target times to chase in pursuit of the overall title.
intense [adj]: of extreme force, degree, or strength.
Eg: His head slammed against the window; breaking the glass before he flew forward, his ribcage hitting the steering wheel with intense force.
accomplishment [n]: something that is successful, or that is achieved after a lot of work or effort.
Eg: Getting the two leaders to sign a peace treaty was his greatest accomplishment.
by no means [expression]: not at all.
Eg: It is by no means certain that we’ll finish the project by June.
properly [adv]: correctly, or in a satisfactory way. Eg: I’m not properly dressed for this kind of weather. inadvertently [n]: without intention; accidentally.
Eg: His name had been inadvertently omitted from the list.
Describe an occasion when weather prevented your activity
You should say:
- When it was
- Why it prevented your activity
- What you did
- And how you felt about it
(When it was) I’m going to tell you an experience that happened last summer when I was going to hike on a faraway mountain. However, the unexpectedly unfavorable weather eventually hindered my plan. It was a balmy day with a mild temperature, perfect conditions for an adventurous activity like hiking. After having breakfast, I checked my backpack, made sure I was wearing my most comfortable shoes and took the bus to the foothills.
(Why it prevented your activity) However, when I reached there, the sun disappeared, and the temperature changed vastly. The wind had picked up, with dark clouds rolling across the sky. This was no doubt an indication of heavy rain or worse, a big storm. From my previous experience, I knew right away that it is by no means an easy task to hike by myself in such conditions, as the mountain road I chose was full of twists and turns.
(What you did) Demotivated as I felt, I had to cancel the hiking plans for the sake of my safety. However, on the way back, I found a hot spring resort by the road, which I had never been to before. I decided to treat myself to a service there to make up for the failed plan.
(And how you felt about it) Of course, I was utterly disappointed initially because I had been planning this hike for a long time. Yet, the spring resort experience was beautiful. After two hours there, all my tiredness was gone, and I felt refreshed. Though bathing was not my first choice of the day, it turned out to be fulfilling.
Vocabulary from Holiday:
heavy rain
Meaning: intense rainfall
Example: Many tourists have their flights delayed due to the heavy rain.
Other vocabularies:
hinder [v]: to limit the ability of someone to do something, or to limit the development of something
Eg: High winds have hindered firefighters in their efforts to put out the blaze.
balmy [adj]: (of the weather) pleasantly warm.
Eg: The exhibition was held in the balmy days of late summer.
adventurous [adj]: exciting and often dangerous.
Eg: Instead of staying in the hotel all the time, we wanted to go out and be adventurous.
vastly [adv]: very much.
Eg: Assessing the larger numbers of women suffering severe maternal morbidity would vastly increase their workload.
indication [n]: a remark or sign that shows that something is happening or what somebody is thinking or feeling:
Eg: Obviously, there are indications that the economy of this nation is improving.
by no means [expression]: not at all
Eg: It is by no means certain that we’ll finish the project by June.
twist and turns [expression]: curves and frequent changes of direction
Eg: The road through the mountains has many twists and turns.
demotivate [v]: to make someone less enthusiastic about something
Eg: She was very demotivated by being told she had little chance of being promoted.
utterly [adv]: completely or extremely
Eg: She was utterly devastated when her husband died.
refreshment [n]: the fact of making somebody feel stronger or less tired or hot.
Eg: Minh is trying to find a place for rest and refreshment.
PART 3: WEATHER
1. Does weather have any impact on people’s daily activities?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, of course. (Explain your reason or reasons) Weather affects people’s everyday lives by governing choices they make about what clothes to wear, how to travel, and the activities in which they participate. Weather also affects the moods of many people. (Give an example (often a personal example)) In areas where distinct seasons exist, such as snowstorms, can cancel school, meaning parents may have to scramble for childcare, and students get a day off from school.
Winter can also make commutes to work a nuisance, if not dangerous.
2. Why do people do different kinds of sports in different weather?
(Give a direct answer to the question) This is a way of adaptation for me. (Explain your reason or reasons) The effects of weather on sport are varied, with some events being unable to occur. While outdoor sports are most affected, those played indoors can still be impacted by unfavourable weather conditions.
3. What kind of weather do Iranian people like?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I’m afraid there is no definite answer to this question, but it may probably be the sunny, mild weather in spring. (Explain your reason or reasons) The temperature is neither bitterly cold nor unbearably hot, so people in Iran tend to go on a picnic or take a brisk walk in the park. This is when families get together, so I believe that people feel happier with this kind of weather.
4. Do Iranian people talk about the weather when they meet for the first time?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Not at all. (Explain your reason or reasons) This is the tradition of British people. The real reason people in Britain like to talk about the weather is that they are quite socially inept. Besides, the weather makes a particularly good topic of conversation because it is so variable. This is not the case in Iran.
Vocabulary from Sports:
a brisk walk:
Meaning: a fast walk
Example: You should take a brisk walk to relax yourself.
Other vocabularies:
govern [v]: conduct the policy, actions, and affairs of (a state, organization, or people)
Eg: The Netherlands is a unitary state governed by a central body.
distinct [adj]: recognizably different in nature from something else of a similar type.
Eg: Whilst distinct in terms of research focus, the two projects were theoretically and methodologically similar.
nuisance [n]: a person, thing, or circumstance causing inconvenience or annoyance:
Eg: In return, they don’t secede or otherwise make a nuisance of themselves.
unfavourable [adj]: not likely to lead to a positive result.
Eg: Unfavorable weather conditions this morning caused a postponement of the launch of the space shuttle.
bitterly [adv]: bitterly cold = extremely and unpleasantly cold.
Eg: The winter in Canada last year was bitterly cold.
unbearably [n]: in a way that is too painful or unpleasant for you to continue to experience.
Eg: The sun was almost unbearably hot today.
period [n]: the length of time that something lasts.
Eg: He planned a stay of a two year period .
inept [adj]: having or showing no skill; clumsy.
Eg: Consecutive governments have insisted on a completely inept policy of open immigration.
variable [adj]: not consistent or having a fixed pattern; liable to change.
Eg: Even the music, which, whilst variable in quality, has some genuinely affecting moments, ultimately seems insubstantial.
Describe a leisure activity you do with your family
You should say
- What it is
- When you do it
- Where you do it
- And explain how you feel about it (What it is):
My family fancies at cooking, and we always prefer home cooked food. We feast on weekends. However, I would like to talk about the time when my family gathered to make Chung cake for the Tet holiday.
(When you do it)
The Lunar New Year, or Tet, is a traditional holiday in my country. It was probably my most favourite holiday when I was a small boy as my family did a lot of activities to celebrate this occasion. Among them, making Chung cake made me excited the most. Traditionally, we always make Chung Cake 2 days before Lunar New Year.
(Where you do it)
We had a big yard behind our house, and it was where Chung Cake was made, from preparing ingredients, to shaping the cake. I still remember helping my parents prepare the ingredients for the cake while my older brother was in charge of shaping the cake. And then, my father lit a small fire to boil the cake overnight. It was perhaps the only time of the year when I was allowed to stay up late.
(And explain how you feel about it)
In recent years, my family has not had enough time to make Chung cake. However, to me, a ready-made Chung cake bought from a local market cannot bring the warmth and taste of a Chung cake made from home. I hope that my family can continue the tradition in the coming years.
Part 3 questions:
1. Do men and women enjoy the same leisure activities?
I don’t think so. I believe that men and women are born with distinct characteristics and personalities; therefore, their choices of leisure activities might also differ from each other. For example, while men tend to be involved in sporty activities, women prefer shopping or eating out with their friends to playing sports.
2. What types of leisure activities are popular in your country?
Well, there is undoubtedly a wide variety of hobbies in my country. I think the most popular would be travelling. For example, a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life to coastal cities on weekends can help people relieve stress.
3. Why is it important for people to have time for leisure activities?
Spending time on leisure activities plays a vital role in shaping people’s state of health. It helps us recharge our energy after a nerve-wracking day, and avoids getting overloaded. For example, reading books when you have free time enables you to let off some steam after working under a lot of pressure.
4. Why are some activities more popular than others?
It is quite natural that people would prefer some sorts of leisure activities than others. I believe that the history and socio-cultural background of a nation influences the type of leisure activities people do. For example, teenagers in some Asian countries often make kites and fly them while this is not the case in many western countries.
5. Are there types of leisure activities that are as popular today as those that were popular when your parents were young?
No, as time has gone by, the popularities of leisure activities have also changed. For example, when our parents were young, activities like watching TV/movies, visiting some famous cafés/restaurants and visiting families/relatives were more popular. But, today, activities like visiting a gym nearby, shopping, and playing video games have grown equally famous because of technological advancements and increasing awareness of health and fashion.
VOCABULARY FROM FOOD
Home-cooked food
Meaning: Food cooked at home from individual ingredients
Example: The menu offers a range of home-cooked meals, from hearty soups to stacked sandwiches to sizzling steaks.
OTHER VOCABULARY
Fancy Meaning: Like
Example: I didn’t fancy swimming in that water.
Feast
Meaning: A special meal with very good food or a large meal for many people
Example: We had a feast of fresh seafood.
Stay up
Meaning: To go to bed later than usual
Example: We stayed up (late) to watch a film.
Ready-made
Meaning: Bought or found in a finished form and available to use immediately
Example: I didn’t sew the curtains – they came ready-made.
Distinct
Meaning: Clearly separate and different (from something else)
Example: The two concepts are quite distinct (from each other).
A getaway Meaning: A vacation
Example: Let’s make a getaway to an island.
Hustle and bustle
Meaning: Busy and frenetic activity or excitement.
Example: I love living among the hustle and bustle of the city.
Relieve
Meaning: To improve an unpleasant situation
Example: New toll roads could help relieve congestion on other routes.
Nerve-wracking
Meaning: difficult to do and causes a lot of worry for the person involved in it
Example: My wedding was the most nerve-wracking thing I’ve ever experienced.
Overloaded
Meaning: To give someone more work or problems than they can deal with
Example: Try not to overload yourself with work.
Let off steam
Meaning: To do or say something that helps you to get rid of strong feelings or energy
Example: She jogs after work to let off steam.
Socio-cultural
Meaning: Related to the different groups of people in society and their habits, traditions, and beliefs
Example: A good doctor has the ability to relate to the sociocultural background of his or her patients.
Describe the clothes you wear on special occasions
You should say:
- What they are
- Where you buy them
- Why you wear them
- And what people think about them
(What they are)
Most of the time, I prefer to dress in clothes that I feel at ease. For special occasions, therefore, I like to wear smart but casual trousers, white blouses and sometimes a jacket. When the social event I attend requires a higher level of formality, suits, and formal shoes would be my choice.
(Where you buy them)
Well, most of my casual clothes come from common fashion brands, like Zara or H&M, because they are relatively affordable. However, I do set higher standards for my formal clothes, especially in terms of the materials. Therefore, I occasionally buy some quality white blouses from a first-class fashion brand. I have sometimes ordered clothes online for special occasions, but I prefer to try them on. I have to admit that I also like the wide range of choice in the shops.
(Why you wear them)
I prefer the combination of a blouse and formal trousers for many reasons. Despite being a girl, I find wearing dresses or skirts uncomfortable. Besides, a white blouse is suitable for people of any age or gender and on almost all occasions. Usually, formal clothes would make you look more mature, but a combination of a white blouse with trousers will give you a smart and youthful look.
(And what people think about them)
My family members like to see me wearing formal clothes. For others, I think this look conveys politeness and respect. My friends prefer me in elegant, feminine dresses, as a girl in a white blouse may not impress others. But, I prefer to dismiss these traditional ideas. For special occasions, I like to go by my choice, rather than wear the clothes that others would choose if they were me.
Vocabulary:
Traditional vs Modern:
to dismiss traditional ideas
Meaning: to decide that traditional ideas are not important and not worth considering anymore.
Example: We should not dismiss traditional ideas without considering them carefully.
at ease [expression]: relaxed and comfortable
Eg: From the moment that I entered the friendly atmosphere of the classroom, I felt completely at ease.
brand [noun]: the name of a product produced or sold by a particular company.
Eg: It was to become the leading brand of speciality coffee in North America.
affordable [adjective]: not expensive.
Eg: The shop in town always sells nice clothes at affordable prices.
set (high/low) standards for something [expression]: set a level of quality that people expect and generally accepted as normal.
Eg: Banks in Hong Kong and China are setting higher standards for customer service in call centres.
suitable [adjective]: appropriate and fitting the occasion
Eg: This hotel has a large play area, so it is suitable for families with young children.
youthful [adjective]: having the qualities that are typical of young people.
Eg: At the time I admired his youthful enthusiasm.
childlike [adjective]: showing the good qualities that children have, such as trusting people, being honest and enthusiastic.
Eg: She has a somewhat childlike innocence surrounding her.
PART 3:
1. What factors do you think affect the clothes we choose to wear?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, I think our choices of clothes are decided mainly by circumstances and personal preferences. (Explain your reason or reasons) On the one hand, your dress code will either be formal or casual, depending on the event you attend. A person’s sense of fashion also plays a considerable role in the choices of outfits. (Give an example – often a personal example) For instance, on occasions that require formality, I prefer white shirts and trousers to elegant dresses, as it suits me the most.
2. Is it possible to look good without spending lots of money on clothes?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, possibly (Explain your reason or reasons)
It is not an extravagance but rather a person’s taste of fashion and other factors that make himself or herself truly attractive. (Give an example – often a personal example)) From my own experience, I have a lot of peers who know how to mix and match different items of clothing that go well together. Surprisingly, many of their clothes are second-hand or bargains from cheap markets. (Explain the opposite or alternative) However, quality clothes do help improve one’s overall appearance, so they are certainly worth the money.
3. Does fashion shows have an impact on what we are wearing?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, to people who are dedicated followers of fashion. (Explain your reason or reasons) Fashion shows never fail to introduce and promote the latest fashion trends, which people can follow to look more trendy. (Give an example – often a personal example)) For myself, although I enjoy watching the latest fashion shows with fabulous models, clothes from these shows do not suit my everyday style, and of course, they are more often than not too costly.
4. Do you think fashion trends are changing constantly?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, undoubtedly. (Explain your reason or reasons) Fashion is an ever-changing industry because of external factors, including seasonal change and the influence of trendsetters, such as fashion designers and celebrities.
Practically, a trend, by definition, doesn’t last. (Give an example – often a personal example)) If you follow this industry closely, you will understand it’s not only changing, sometimes old fashion trends also make a comeback, e.g. crop top, boot-cut jeans, white eyeliner. (Explain the opposite or alternative) However, some kinds of clothes are always favoured, such as jeans or T-shirts. These classics are those that rarely change and look good no matter what other “trends” are going on.
5. Do you think people behave differently in different kinds of clothes?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Certainly. I once read a quote by Caitlin Moran that helps express this perfectly, which is: “When a woman says ‘I have nothing to wear!’ What she really means is, ‘there’s nothing here for who I’m supposed to be today.’ ” (Explain your reason or reasons) We use clothes in connection to the roles we’re going to play. (Give an example – often a personal example)) For instance, someone who dressed immaculately at a party is more likely to attract interest and attention, which in return would make that person feel more confident.
6. Are people’s ideas about fashion today the same as people’s ideas at previous times?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Probably no. (Explain your reason or reasons) Fashion is regarded more highly these days than it once was. (Give an example – often a personal example)). When interacting with your mom or granny, you will find that their concept of fashion will undoubtedly contrast with each other and that of your own, which shows that ideas about fashion vary from generation to generation.
Vocabulary:
preference [noun]: the fact that you like something or someone more than another thing or person.
Eg: Her preference is for comfort rather than stylish clothes.
extravagant [adjective]: extreme and unreasonable.
Eg: The product does not live up to the extravagant claims of the advertisers.
to mix and match [expression]: to combine in a harmonious or interesting way, as articles of clothing in an ensemble.
Eg: Gary likes to mix and match clothes for different events.
Describe a programme or an app that you think is useful
You should say,
- what it is
- how you know it
- how to use it
- And explain why it is useful
(what it is) (how you know it) I always had a tough time buying groceries. After a hard day’s work, it was tiring to stand in a long queue at the supermarket and purchase them. I was vigorously looking for alternatives when a friend of mine told me about this prepaid app called “Fresh to Home”. I installed it from the playstore.
(how to use it) After the initial registration, there was an option called “Wallet”. You have to fill your wallet and then place orders. I filled the wallet with a sum of Rs. 500. Then I proceeded to the store to select vegetables. They sell a variety of items ranging from diced banana stem to grated coconut, from bakery products and confectionaries to cosmetics. Also, you can decide the frequency of
delivery with the “subscribe” button which will list options like ‘daily’, ‘alternate days’, ‘weekends’ or ‘custom schedule’ where you can custom your own schedule. The only thing to remember is to ensure that your wallet is not empty. You have to place orders before 8:00 PM the previous day to get it delivered at your doorstep the next morning at 6:00 AM.
(And explain why it is useful) It has saved a great deal of time. I’m relieved of the nightmare of waiting in the long queues. Also, their service is excellent. They deliver it on time every day. It is an easy-to-use and friendly app, and I’m thankful to my friend who told me about this.
VOCABULARY
Prepaid (verb) – pay for in advance
Eg: She gifted the couple with a prepaid gift card.
Playstore (noun) – Google’s official pre-installed app store on Android-certified devices. It provides access to content on the Google Play Store, including apps, books, magazines, music, movies, and television programs.
Eg: I installed the English learning app from google playstore.
Wallet (noun) – a pocket-sized flat folding case for holding money and plastic cards.
Eg: Her Wallet was full of money.
Nightmare (noun) – a very unpleasant or frightening experience or prospect.
Eg: It was a great nightmare for her to find her way through the crowd.
PART 3
1. What is the importance of apps in a person’s life?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Apps can easily be installed from the play store. They serve various purposes. (Give an example) For example, an app called Urban Company offers household doorstep services like haircuts, repair of electrical appliances, plumbing, etc. There are apps for learning English, paying electricity bills, delivering food items, grocery, etc. They can be used from anywhere, anytime. So, they have become indispensable to human life.
2. Are there any drawbacks to apps?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Some apps consume a lot of storage. So, it becomes a problem when installing new ones. So, you have to clear your cache constantly. Apart from this, there are no drawbacks.
3. Are these apps helpful in making honest relations?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Some apps promote friendship. But there is no credibility to the information provided. It is up to the user to be smart when establishing relationships through apps.
4. How can technology make our life easier?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Technology, if used wisely, is a boon. (Explain your reason or reasons) They help us a great deal in our daily lives. (Give an example) For example, air-conditioners and refrigerators are very helpful in hot countries. The former transforms your atmosphere by making it cool while the latter helps to keep the food safe. They help us to improve our lifestyle.
5. Why are mobile phones gaining popularity?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) They are easy to carry and can be used from anywhere in the world. Besides, their costs are affordable. They have a lot of built- in features that make life easier. People use it not only for communication but also to listen to music, watch movies, and play games. So, it is quite natural that they are gaining popularity.
VOCABULARY
Indispensable (adj) – absolutely necessary.
Eg: Water is indispensable to human life.
Constantly (adv) – continuously over a period of time; always.
Eg: Sheela was constantly battling with her fears.
Promote (verb) – support or actively encourage (a cause, venture, etc.); further the progress of.
Eg: Kevin was advised to promote his product by making campaigns.
Boon (noun) – a thing that is helpful or beneficial.
Eg: The newly constructed lane will be a boon to the pedestrians.
Popularity (noun) – the state or condition of being liked, admired, or supported by many people.
Eg: In the 1960s, the actor was at the peak of popularity.
Describe a large company that you are interested in
You should say,
- what it is
- what it business it does
- how you know about it
- And explain how you feel about it
(what it is) (what business it does) There are many large companies in the world today. One that I’m interested in is “AT&T”. “AT&T” stands for “American Telephone and Telegraph Company”. It is a pioneer in the field of telecommunications. They have carved a niche for themselves in offering broadband and fixed-line telephone services across the world.
(how you know about it) I got to know about it from my cousin who served in the company for nearly five years. He was always my inspiration, and I want to follow his footsteps.
(Explain how you feel about it) We had discussed many things about the company, which increased my desire to work for it. They have a fantastic work culture and ensure work-life balance. I have witnessed it because my cousin took part in the county tennis matches, while he worked there. I had never seen him complaining about work. Also, I have my own plans for settling abroad and amassing wealth. Since my cousin was able to work for five years, it is obvious that the attrition rate is less. I have a fairly good amount of experience with an Indian division of a Korean telecommunications
company. So, I’m sure I will be able to crack the interview with “AT&T”. Currently, I’m working on an important assignment upon completion of which, I will apply for “AT&T”.
VOCABULARY
Telephone (noun) – a system for transmitting voices over a distance using wire or radio, by converting acoustic vibrations to electrical signals.
Eg: She made a telephone call to her aunt.
Telegraph (noun) – a system for transmitting messages from a distance along a wire, especially one creating signals by making and breaking an electrical connection
Eg: Initially the use of Telegraph was confined to the Railways.
Work life balance (noun) – the division of one’s time and focus between working and family or leisure activities
Eg: Tim quit the company due to poor work life balance.
Telecommunications (noun) – The branch of technology concerned with telecommunication (communication over a distance by cable, telegraph, telephone, or broadcasting.)
Eg: She graduated from Cambridge in Telecommunications
PART 3
1. Are there many big companies in your country?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, there are a lot of them. (Explain your reason or reasons) India is home to several IT Giants like Infosys, Wipro, TCS, and Tech Mahindra. There are also many foreign investment banks like Société Generale, Goldman Sachs, and Wells Fargo.
2. What are the good things about working for a big company?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) The pay package would be very high. Attrition rates would be low. There would be a lot of opportunities for international travel. There would be many additional benefits like insurance, perks, and bonuses.
3. Should big companies donate more to charities?
(Give a direct answer to the question) They should. (Explain your reason or reasons) Now CSR or Corporate social responsibility is made law in India. The aim is to pressurize society’s wealthier sections to help the poor and help eradicate social inequalities in the nation. There are many trusts set up by the wealthy industrialists to build schools and Universities.
4. Is it difficult to get a promotion in a large company?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Not at all. (Explain your reason or reasons) Be it a large company or small company, it is up to the person to get himself noticed. Large companies have many divisions within them. So, if one project does not offer the required growth, there is no need to quit the company. You can switch to another project with ease, which is not possible in a small company.
5. Should big companies be punished more seriously if they break the law?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Undoubtedly, yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) Big companies generate more revenue and are symbols of national pride. So, they should be more responsible in ensuring that they abide by the law. They should be punished harder because they bring down the nation’s image in the international arena.
VOCABULARY
Giant (adj) – of very great size or force, gigantic.
Eg: Mittal is a giant in the steel manufacturing business.
Pressurize (verb) – attempt to persuade or coerce (someone) into doing something.
Eg: Her father pressurized her to study maths.
Eradicate (verb) – destroy completely; put an end to.
Eg: The political party came to power with the promise that it will eradicate poverty.
Abide (verb) – accept or act in accordance with (a rule, decision, or recommendation)
Eg: John agreed to abide by the rules of the organisation.
Image (noun) – the general impression that a person, organization, or product presents to the public.
Eg: The actor had a good image.
Describe an article you read about healthy living
You should say,
- what it was about
- when you read it
- where you read it
- and explain what you learnt from it
(what it was about) ( when you read it) (where you read it) I’ve come across several videos in youtube. I subscribed for many cookery videos last year, and interestingly one of the chefs had an interview with Mrs X, a nutritionist. It was very impressive that I looked for her articles on the internet and found that she had a website called “abc.com”. (explain what you learnt from it) I studied the website every nook and corner and found the tips to be very useful. I especially like the way she has categorised the information into “myths”, “facts” and “truths”. I learnt that if you are craving for something sinful, like sweets and savouries all through the day, you ought to find a
healthy alternative and work on analysing why you’ve got such a craving. I also learnt that not all fats are bad for health. I got to know the difference between trans fat and saturated fat. It was surprising to know that we need some fats like Omega3 and Omega6, and it is too much trans fat that leads to conditions like a heart attack. Also, the website strongly stated that being slim doesn’t mean a
person is healthy and that we should not judge anyone’s health by their weight. There were many such myths and explanations given which clarified many of my doubts on health. I found the website very informative.
VOCABULARY
Nutritionist (noun) – a person who studies or is an expert in nutrition
Eg: In an interview with the press, the nutritionist gave some tips on weight loss.
Craving (noun) – a powerful desire for something.
Eg: Tina had a craving for sweets.
Alternative (noun) –one of two or more available possibilities.
Eg: Nuts are a healthy alternative to snacks.
Trans Fat (noun) – An unhealthy substance that is made through the chemical process of hydrogenation of oils.
Eg: Trans fat is found in microwave popcorns and non-dairy coffee creamers.
Slim (adj) – (of a person or their build) gracefully thin; slender.
Eg: Margaret had a slim figure.
Part 3
1. Why do different people like to read different magazines?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Tastes, passions, and pursuits differ from person to person. Also, there are magazines for every field. Tech-savvy people read magazines like PC Quest. For general reading, people choose magazines like Reader’s Digest. Those interested in films read magazines like Filmfare.
2. What kind of magazines do teenagers like to read?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Generally, they like to read about sports, fitness, and movies. Some prefer to read technical stuff. Girls would be interested in reading about what is trending in fashion.
3. What’s the difference between the news on TV and news in magazines?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) On the television, you just get a gist of the news. But in magazines, it will be analyzed in detail. There would be an exhaustive coverage provided. (Give an example) For example, in case of a murder, news on TV would just brief that such a thing has happened, whereas in magazines they probe into the causes, analyze various factors, and it would be more or less like a detective report.
4. Do people like to read news from the Internet?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Yes, a lot of them do. (Explain your reason or reasons) Almost all major newspapers have an internet version. Some of the content will be free, and when you want to read in detail, they will ask you to pay for it.
5. Do you think the people today are healthier than those in the past?
(Give a direct answer to the question) No. (Explain your reason or reasons) Even when there are many campaigns on health, and there is increased awareness, the average lifespan has decreased. People of yesteryears lived until their nineties. Now sixty has become the average age. Though medical facilities have improved, people today suffer from a lot of diseases.
VOCABULARY
Tech-savvy (adj) – well informed about or proficient in the use of modern technology, especially computers.
Eg: The youth of today are very tech-savvy.
Trending (adj) – currently popular or widely discussed online, especially on social media websites.
Eg: Ashley’s murder was trending in today’s evening news.
Gist (noun) – the substance or general meaning of a speech or text.
Eg: It was hard to get a gist of the saint’s speech.
Awareness (noun) – knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.
Eg: There was an increased awareness of pandemic among the public.
Lifespan (noun) – The length of time a person or animal lives or a thing function.
Eg: The lifespan of a mosquito is very short.
Describe a successful small company
You should say,
- what this company is
- how you know about it
- what it produces
- and explain why you think this company is successful
(what this company is) (how you know about it) (what it produces)The world has plenty of new ideas. Last week, I received a video from my friend on Whatsapp. The video started with a man placing orders in a hotel and waiting for his meal. His waiting time increased and out of hunger, he started eating the spoons, cups, and plates on the table. Then there was a voice which said that they were meant for edible purposes only. They were edible cutleries, manufactured by two housewives in Bangalore. I became interested in the business and watched the video completely.
(explain why you think this company is successful) The raw materials required for this business are very cheap. They are organic natural ingredients like wheat, jowar, rice powder, millets, grains, pulses and spices. They started making this at home where they made moulds of cups and spoons manually. When they became confident, they started it as a business named “ABC”. The manufacturing involves simple processes like preparing the concoctions, moulding by hand and by machines and placing them in an oven. It is a zero-waste, biodegradable, no plastic venture. Even if the person throws it into the environment, it gets dissolved within 40 minutes and gets converted to manure. I think the success of this business is due to the disasters caused by plastic. They have
started this business at just the right time when the government has banned the use of plastics and hotels and supermarkets are looking for an alternative.
VOCABULARY
Edible (adj) – fit to be eaten (often used to contrast with unpalatable or poisonous varieties).
Eg: Those berries are edible.
Raw material (noun) – the basic material from which a product is made.
Eg: The interior decorator purchased his raw materials from a wood cutter.
Moulds (noun) – a hollow container used to give shape to molten or hot liquid material when it cools and hardens
Eg: The shopkeeper poured hot liquid into mould to prepare the Ganesha idol.
Concoctions (noun) – a mixture of various ingredients or element.
Eg: It was a delicious smelling concoction of various flower essences.
Biodegradable (adj) – (of a substance or object) capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms and thereby avoiding pollution.
Eg: Bacteria can process wastes into biodegradable materials
Part 3
1. What do you think can be considered as emerging industries?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Emerging industries are those that are formed around a new product or centred around a new idea and are in the early stages of development. They are often centred around new technology. For example, AI health care is an emerging industry.
2. Is market research important for export business?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Market research is essential for success in the export business. (Explain your reason or reasons) You have to research your target market and understand its characteristics to reach better. If market research is not done, it leads to mistakes that result in losses.
3. In business, do companies need to be competitive?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Undoubtedly, yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) You need to be aware of what your competitors do and then improve your product. The more your product is chosen over your competitors, the more grateful you become and pressurized to maintain the quality of your products.
4. How can businesses benefit the community in which they are located?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Firstly, they create employment opportunities. There are other benefits, as well. Business owners may donate to the needy, participate in charity events, contribute to local non-profit organizations, and motivate youngsters by giving lectures.
5. What kind of small businesses are the most popular?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Businesses related to clothes such as boutiques, in food such as cafes, in transport such as pick up and drop services, in e- commerce such as doorstep delivery services are very popular.
VOCABULARY
Emerging (adj) – growing and developing, esp. in business investment.
Eg: The United Nations should pay more attention to emerging democracies.
Target (noun) – a person or a particular group of people that something is directed at, or that something is intended for
Eg: The target audience for the cricket match is young people aged between 16- 19.
Grateful (adj) – showing or expressing thanks, especially to another person
Eg: Sita was grateful to Sheela for all that she had done.
Donate (verb) – to give money or goods to help a person or organization
Eg: People were asked to donate generously to the red cross.
Boutiques (noun) – a small shop that sells fashionable clothes, shoes, jewelry, etc.
Eg: Sita purchased some dresses from the new boutique
Describe a job you would not like to do in the future
You should say,
- what it is
- how it is done
- how you know about it
- and explain why you would not like to do this
( what it is) (how it is done) (how you know about it) After completing my Bachelors in India, I moved to the US to pursue my Masters in Computer Science. The scholarship I got was meagre and was just enough for the college fee. I got to know from my professor that there was a vacancy in a medical laboratory nearby. So I took up a job as a medical lab assistant to supplement my expenses. I worked in the evenings. I opted for it because I had no choice. The job involved analysis of samples of body tissue taken from patients, like blood. The key ability required was good eyesight because you have to work on fine samples. I wore spectacles, and as my power increased, I wore thick lenses. ( explain why you would not like to do this job) I had to strain myself to do the job. It was very taxing. As I worked on the samples, I was always at the fear of giving a wrong analysis. I never trusted my findings and re-checked them over and over again. This way, I was very slow. I took more time to complete one analysis. It was not a highly paid job, but it did require some skills. Though my analysis was correct most of the time, I did fewer samples in a day than what was expected. I was being supervised by a chinese lady. She always complained that I was not upto the mark. I tried to explain my situation, but she would not listen to it. After a hard day at the university, this job made my life more strenuous. It was a tough and testing time of my life. I was determined not to quit on my own. Somehow, I managed to finish the two years of my Masters. But I would never take up the job of a medical lab assistant.
VOCABULARY
Meagre (adj) – (of something provided or available) lacking in quantity or quality.
Eg: She had meagre income from her job as a typist.
Supplement (verb) – add an extra element or amount to.
Eg: She did stitching to supplement her husband’s low income.
Lab assistant (adj phrase) – Lab Assistants are responsible for helping technologists and scientists during lab tests and research.
Eg: She worked as a lab assistant for nearly fifteen years.
Samples (noun) – a small part or quantity intended to show what the whole is like.
Eg: The investigation involved analysing the samples of blood.
Strenuous (adj) – requiring or using great effort or exertion.
Eg: She made strenuous attempts to learn maths.
Part 3
1. Which do young people generally prefer boring jobs with higher pay or interesting jobs with lower pay?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I think it is tough to generalize. It varies from person to person. (Explain your reason or reasons) There are people who work for money and also people who work for passion. If their goal is money-making, they will be able to bear with a tedious job. If they work for passion, then money does not matter.
2. Which do you prefer, physical work or work involving thinking?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I prefer to think and work rather than doing something which requires manual effort. (Explain your reason or reasons) It is not that I disrespect physical work, but it is just that I won’t be the right fit for it. Nowadays, there are hardly any jobs that require physical labour. Everything is automated.
3. How do young people today decide their career?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) I think the younger generation today makes brilliant career choices. They are more mature. There is a lot of material available on the internet. Social media like Facebook and YouTube assist them in their research. So, they don’t have to look up to their elders for suggestions. There are also many career advices given in schools and colleges, which helps them decide on the right career path.
4. What factors should be considered when choosing jobs?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) First of all, a person needs to analyze if they have the required skills for the job. Then, the salary package and growth opportunities should be taken into consideration. If a job is chosen based on these factors, there is no need to switch jobs often.
5. Some people will lose their jobs because of technology, how to deal with it?
(Give a direct answer to the question) (Explain your reason or reasons) Everyone must upskill themselves time and again. People should keep themselves updated with the latest changes and observe the trends in their respective jobs. This way, they can remain safe, even if their current technology becomes outdated.
VOCABULARY
Generalize (verb) – make a general or broad statement by inferring from specific cases.
Eg: It is tough to generalize which category is poor.
Money making (noun) – the action of earning a lot of money.
Eg: The main aim of the political party was money-making.
Automated (adj) – operated by largely automatic equipment.
Eg: ABC company automated 75% of its operations.
Upskill (verb) – (of an employee) learn additional skills.
Eg: Ram received an increment because he upskilled himself in the latest technology.
Outdated (adj) – out of date; obsolete.
Eg: Some computer languages have become outdated.
Describe a change that can improve your local area
You should say:
- What is it
- How it can be made
- What benefit it will bring
- And how you feel about it
(What it is) I’m going to describe a change that can improve my local area, which is the construction of a new giant building in the city centre. It would be a complex of shopping malls, hotels and offices. For a small area like my city, the advent of a modern, state-of-the-art shopping mall would be an undoubtedly favourable development. It would consist mainly of changes related to social, economic, as well as functional and spatial spheres.
(How it can be made) Well, I think it is the local authorities’ responsibility to initiate such a large-scale project. The construction of this building would require a professional architectural firm, a team of subcontractors, a knowledgeable contractor, and a cooperative developer/owner to get the job done in a reasonable time frame.
(What benefit it will bring) Many benefits follow such a development for a small area. First, this complex would incorporate ample parking in its design and construction. This would make it advantageous for people who choose to shop there instead of a single store. With a broader range of goods and services, the overall consumer spending would be strongly stimulated, which favours the provincial economy. The centre would also allow foreign visitors to purchase goods with greater diversity, as compared to other supermarkets in the past.
(And how you felt about it) Such an improvement would exert a long-term influence on the lives of local people in many aspects, such as the economy, tourism. As a part of the city, I feel excited about this progressive turn, and I believe the building would enhance people’s living standards as a whole. Most importantly, the success of this building would lay the very foundation for other large-scale investments in my city.
Vocabulary from Town and City:
shopping malls
Meaning: large indoor shopping centres
Example: There are many shopping malls in the city centre.
Other vocabularies:
favourable [adj]: to the advantage of somebody/something
Eg: The speaker announced the favorable establishment of a new college.
spatial [adj]: of or relating to space
Eg: The exhibition has great spatial sense.
initiate [v]: to make something begin
Eg: The government has initiated a program of economic reform.
incorporate [v]: include/ take something in as a form:
Eg: The building incorporates a lot of state-of-the-art facilities.
consumer spending [expression]: the spending of consumer:
Eg: Consumer spending this year has increased exponentially.
stimulate [v]: to make something develop or become more active; to encourage something:
Eg: The article can be used to stimulate discussion among students.
long-term [adj]: that will last or have an effect over a long period of time:
Eg: At the moment, long-term investment in education would favour the overall development of this nation.
progressive [adj]: happening or developing steadily:
Eg: There is a progressive reduction in the size of the workforce.
large-scale [adj]: involving many people or things, especially over a wide area.
Eg: This building is a large-scale development for our nation.
lay the foundation for something [expression]: set, start a principle, an idea or a fact that something is based on and that it grows from.
Eg: Respect and friendship lay a solid foundation for marriage.
PART 3: COMMUNITY
1. Why are people living in a community, friendly with others?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, it is quite easy to understand the importance of living in a community (Explain your reason or reasons) Being a part of a community can make us feel as though we are a part of something greater than ourselves. It can give us opportunities to connect with people, to reach for our goals, and make us feel safe and secure. (Give an example (often a personal example)) In the age where technology connects and separates us, a friendly residential area can greatly benefit our well-being and can increase our contentment in day-to-day life.
2. Do people like living in a community?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I think the majority do. (Explain your reason or reasons) It seems that our sense of self-worth and well-being is inextricably linked to the feeling that we are part of a group. This sense of belonging allows us to feel acknowledged and recognized for who we truly are. This sense of belonging is very much part and parcel of being a member of an intentional community. Through sharing our experiences daily, we can also enjoy mutually supportive relationships that can be more trusting than usual.
3. Why do people in a community usually have a social gathering?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, the organization of a social gathering would be in the interest of the people involved. (Explain your reason or reasons) Social gatherings develop social skills and empathy—the outward-oriented dimensions of emotional intelligence. Participating in social events enables individuals to meet people who can help them academically or professionally. Relationship-building is a good habit that students need to learn because the world of work requires aptitude in negotiation, communication and networking.
Vocabulary from Town and City:
residential area
Meaning: an area where people live
Example: I live in a residential area of a busy town in the south of Spain
Other vocabularies:
contentment [n]: a state of happiness and satisfaction.
Eg: Reddy was an avid reader and got many hours of contentment and enjoyment from books and newspapers.
inextricably [adv]: in a way that is unable to be separated, released, or escaped from.
Eg: The Louis Armstrong legend is inextricably linked with his recordings.
part and parcel [expression]: to be a feature of something, especially a feature that cannot be avoided.
Eg: Being recognized in the street is part and parcel of being a celebrity.
supportive [adj]: showing agreement and giving encouragement.
Eg: Children with supportive parents often do better at school than those without.
in the interest of [expression]: if you do something in the interests of a particular result or situation, you do it in order to achieve that result or maintain that situation:.
Eg: A call for all businessmen to work together is in the interests of national stability.
aptitude [n]: a natural ability or skill.
Eg: We will take your personal aptitudes and abilities into account.
negotiation [n]: the process of discussing something with someone in order to reach an agreement with them, or the discussions themselves.
Eg: The agreement was reached after a series of difficult negotiations.
Describe a successful small company that you know
You should say
- What it is
- How you knew about it
- How it became successful
- And explain how you felt about it
(what it is) The term entrepreneur has been all the rage recently as thousands of successful start-ups deliver motivational speeches to inspire entrepreneurship. Among different kinds of start-ups, Trinh homestay, located in the Mekong Delta, has emerged as one of the most successful ones in the prime age of tourism in Vietnam.
(how you knew about it) AirBnB, an app which supports homestays has succeeded in running marketing campaigns and offering lots of deals for both customers and homeowners; it is regarded as an ideal alternative to traditional hotels, which will cost customers an arm and a leg. Facebook and Instagram have been flooded with thousands of posts about AirBnB services and some months ago, I stumbled on Trinh homestay.
(how it became successful) An article on CNN cast a spotlight on Trinh homestay, helping her homestay gain independence from AirBnB. First, Trinh homestay was just like millions of other homestays on AirBnB; however, Trinh’s creativity and ardour for the Vietnamese culture lifted her first homestay out of AirBnB as Trinh homestay expanded. Trinh has built many homestays in other provinces in the Mekong Delta.
(and explain how you felt about it) I believe that Trinh homestay, albeit operated on a small scale, should be an exemplifier of the importance of creativity as well as well-equipped with the knowledge of the local culture. Also, her success can be attributed to the fact that she alone has built a small niche business that caters for culture enthusiasts and ran her business on her own during the first days of Trinh Homestay. Other homestays in Vietnam should follow this model, creating an atmosphere that represents the local region’s culture right in the place where tourists stay.
Part 3
1. Which do you prefer, family firms or non-family ones?
I prefer non-family businesses because they tend to be more organised. Meanwhile, family firms are significantly less professional as employees in this kind of business are not trained in a standard way.
2. What are the important factors in making a company successful?
The critical factor which springs to my mind is the human resource. While it’s undeniable that technology plays an integral role in delivering success to a company, it is the human resource that has control over technology and operates it.
3. What kinds of qualities should a successful business person have?
Common sense, of course. This is a quality which everyone should have, not only successful businessmen. Moreover, a successful business person should also be able to formulate visionary policies and strategies.
4. What emerging industries do you know?
To the best of my knowledge, some emerging industries are tourism and beauty.
Vietnam’s tourism industry has been expanding at a double-digit rate, at least 10% for the past five years. Meanwhile, the beauty industry is also growing very fast as the consumption of cosmetics is growing 5% per year.
Vocabulary from business:
Entrepreneur (n): An entrepreneur is an individual who creates a new business, bearing most of the risks and enjoying most of the rewards.
Example: He’s an entrepreneur who made his money in computer software.
To run business (phrase): to operate, to direct, to oversee, to manage (a business, a company)
Example: He runs a dry cleaning business.
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Incredible points. Great arguments. Keep up the good work.