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Written by IELTS Mentor

Here are a few more topics that you should study and practice to fluently answer the questions the examiner might ask you in your Speaking Test - Part 1. Keep in mind that the answers provided here are for reference only. You should NOT memorise them or use them in your test. You are encouraged to get ideas from those and then prepare your own answer from your own experience and idea.

IELTS Speaking Test - Part 1 - QUESTION SET: 2

Set 1    |    Set 2    |    Set 3    |    Set 4    |    Set 5    |    Set 6  |
 

Topic - History:

Q. What did you study in history lessons when you were at school? 
Q. Did you enjoy studying history at school? [Why/Why not?]
Q. How often do you watch TV programmes about history now? [Why/Why not?] 
Q. What period in history would you like to learn more about? [Why?]
 

Q. What did you study in history lessons when you were at school? 
Answer: When I was at school, I studied various aspects of national and international history. We covered a wide range of topics including ancient civilizations, world wars, important historical events, our national history, and significant figures from different time periods. Our history curriculum aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the past and its influence on the present.

Q. Did you enjoy studying history at school? [Why/Why not?] 
Answer: Yes, I did enjoy studying history at school a lot. History fascinated me because it offered a glimpse into the lives and experiences of people from different eras. Learning about past civilizations, their cultures, and the events that shaped our world helped me develop a broader perspective and appreciate the complexities of human history. I found it intriguing to analyze the causes and consequences of historical events and explore the factors that shaped societies.

Q. How often do you watch TV programmes about history now? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I enjoy watching TV programmes about history, but I don't watch them regularly. Due to various commitments and limited time, I am not able to dedicate as much time to watching television as I would like. However, whenever I come across an interesting history programme, I make sure to tune in and expand my knowledge on specific historical topics. These programmes provide valuable insights and visual representations of historical events, making them both educational and engaging.

Q. What period in history would you like to learn more about? [Why?] 
Answer: Well, I would like to learn more about the Renaissance era. The Renaissance was a pivotal era characterized by significant advancements in art, literature, science, and philosophy. It was a time of great cultural and intellectual growth, with notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo Galilei emerging during this period. I am intrigued by the Renaissance's impact on shaping the modern world and would love to delve deeper into its artistic and intellectual achievements.

Topic - Living place:

Q. Where do you live?
Q. What kind of place is it?
Q. What’s the most interesting part of your town/village?
Q. What kind of jobs do the people in your town/village do?
Q. Would you say it’s a good place to live? [why?]
 

Q. Where do you live?
Answer: I live in (...say your area name…) in (...say your town/village/city name...). I have been living there as long as I can remember as it is our permanent residence.

Alternative Answer: I currently live in a vibrant city called "Memphis Alley". 

Q. What kind of place is it?
Answer: This a large town where more than 2 million people reside in. It's a beautiful town and the people are nice and friendly. The area where I live in is in the north of the town centre and a magnificent place, especially because of the quiet environment and good neighbours.

Alternative Answer: It is a bustling metropolis with a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage. It offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and historical charm. The city is known for its impressive architecture, bustling markets, and a wide range of entertainment options. It is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including parks, gardens, and scenic waterfronts.

Q. What’s the most interesting part of your town/village?
Answer: Well, there are actually more than one interesting part and fact that I can recall about our town and among them, the most interesting part is that the entire town is an island. You have to take a ferry or a launch or cross a bridge on a bus to reach our town. Perhaps the second most interesting fact about the town is that wind power provides all the electricity we need. If I tell about the most intriguing area of our town, it would be the north part of the town which is the hub of the town.

Alternative Answer: The most interesting part of the city is its historic district. It is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and significant landmarks. The district is home to several museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions, which provide insights into the city's history and artistic heritage. Walking through this area feels like stepping back in time and offers a glimpse into the city's fascinating past.

Q. What kind of jobs do the people in your town/village do?
Answer: That would be tough to answer because the types of jobs people do in our town vary to a great extent. However, construction engineers, IT professionals, fishermen and salespersons would dominate the list, I believe. Many young people run online businesses and a few rich people own hotel chains in our town. Since it is a popular tourist destination, many locals are indirectly involved in the hospitality and tourism sector.

Alternative Answer: It is a thriving economic hub, and the residents engage in a variety of professions. The city offers diverse job opportunities across sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, tourism, and creative industries. Many people work in corporate offices, while others are involved in entrepreneurial ventures. Additionally, the city attracts professionals from various fields due to its universities, research centres, and cultural institutions.

Q. Would you say it’s a good place to live? [Why?]
Answer: Having a great neighbourhood where people are nice and the environment is quiet is always preferred by people as a living place. In this regard, our town is a great place to live in. Because it's an island, you can get fresh fish and vegetables, and if you are fond of seafood, you will love our cuisine. Finally, job opportunity in our area is another reason people often move to our town. I am happy to be a resident of this town.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I would say "Memphis Alley" is a great place to live. The city provides a high quality of life with its excellent infrastructure, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and recreational options. It offers a wide range of employment opportunities, allowing individuals to pursue their careers and professional growth. Moreover, the city has a vibrant social and cultural scene, with numerous festivals, events, and art exhibitions taking place throughout the year. The diverse community and friendly atmosphere make it an inclusive and welcoming place to call home.

Topic - Reading:

Q. Did you have a favourite book when you were a child? [Why/Why not?] 
Q. How much reading do you do for your work/studies? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What kinds of books do you read for pleasure? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Do you prefer to read a newspaper or a magazine online, or to buy a copy? [Why?]
 

Q. Did you have a favourite book when you were a child? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I had a favourite book when I was a child. It was a fantasy novel called "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" by Mark Twain. I was captivated by the adventurous spirit of the main character and the vivid descriptions of his escapades. The book transported me to a world of imagination and sparked my love for storytelling and reading.

Q. How much reading do you do for your work/studies? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: As part of my work and studies, I engage in a significant amount of reading. Reading plays a crucial role in expanding my knowledge base, staying updated on current research, and gaining insights into various topics. Whether it's academic journals, textbooks, research papers, or online articles, reading helps me gather information, understand concepts, and develop critical thinking skills necessary for my professional and educational pursuits.

Q. What kinds of books do you read for pleasure? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: For pleasure, I enjoy reading a wide range of genres, including fiction, mystery, science fiction, and self-help books. I believe that reading for pleasure allows me to relax, escape from reality, and explore different perspectives and worlds. Fictional stories offer an opportunity for emotional connection with characters and allow me to immerse myself in their experiences. On the other hand, non-fiction books, such as self-help or personal development, provide valuable insights and knowledge that can contribute to personal growth.

Q. Do you prefer to read a newspaper or a magazine online, or to buy a copy? [Why?]
Answer: I prefer to read newspapers and magazines online rather than buying a physical copy. Online platforms provide convenience and instant access to a wide range of publications. I can easily browse through different articles, search for specific topics, and access them anytime and anywhere through digital devices. Additionally, online versions often offer interactive features, multimedia content, and the ability to engage in discussions or share articles with others. It also reduces paper waste, contributing to environmental sustainability. However, I still appreciate the experience of holding a physical copy and sometimes enjoy browsing through magazines or newspapers in print format when available.

Topic - Accommodation:

Q. Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in?
Q. How long have you lived there?
Q. What do you like about living there?
Q. What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?
 

Q. Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in?
Answer: I live in an apartment with my family and the apartment is approximately twenty-five hundred square feet. Our apartment is on the fourth floor and it has four bedrooms, a guest room and a large dining space. The building is located near the city centre and we enjoy a good view from our apartment.

Q. How long have you lived there?
Answer: My father bought this flat almost 3 years ago, and since then we have been living there. Before that, we used to live in a rented flat in the same area.

Q. What do you like about living there?
Answer: We are happy with the apartment we live in and a great lake view from the apartment is the best thing about it. Since the building is located beside a lovely lake, we enjoy the fresh air and can walk by the lake in the morning and evening. I also like the area because almost all the modern amenities we need are present in the vicinity.

Q. What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?
Answer: Honestly speaking, I prefer a house over an apartment as a place to live in. However, due to increasing housing and accommodation demands, owning or renting a house in the city centre is really impossible. So for the time being, we are happy with the apartment we live in. But if I have a choice, I would relocate to a town and own a large house with a beautiful lawn in front of it.

Topic - Drink:

Q. What do you like to drink with your dinner? [Why?]
Q. Do you drink a lot of water every day? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Do you prefer drinking tea or coffee? [Why?]
Q. If people visit you in your home, what do you usually offer them to drink? [Why/Why not?]
 

Q. What do you like to drink with your dinner? [Why?]
Answer: With my dinner, I usually prefer to drink water. Water is a refreshing and hydrating beverage that complements the flavours of the food without overpowering them. It helps to cleanse the palate and aids in digestion. Additionally, water is a healthier choice as it has no added sugars or calories, and it keeps me well-hydrated throughout the meal.

Q. Do you drink a lot of water every day? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I make it a point to drink an adequate amount of water every day. Water is essential for maintaining proper bodily functions, regulating body temperature, and promoting overall health. It helps to hydrate the body, flush out toxins, and support various bodily processes. Additionally, staying hydrated helps me feel more alert, energized, and focused throughout the day.

Q. Do you prefer drinking tea or coffee? [Why?]
Answer: Personally, I prefer drinking tea over coffee. I find the taste and aroma of different types of tea to be soothing and comforting. Tea offers a wide variety of flavours, ranging from herbal and fruity to rich and earthy. I appreciate the calming effect that tea has, and it often serves as a relaxing ritual for me. Moreover, tea contains less caffeine compared to coffee, making it a preferable choice for me as I am sensitive to the effects of caffeine.

Alternative Answer: Personally, I prefer drinking coffee. I find the rich, bold flavour and the aroma of coffee to be quite appealing. The taste of coffee stimulates my senses and provides a delightful experience. Moreover, coffee has a higher caffeine content compared to tea, which gives me an energizing boost and helps me stay alert, especially in the mornings or during busy days. I also appreciate the variety of coffee beverages available, from simple black coffee to lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso-based drinks, allowing me to explore different flavours and enjoy the art of coffee-making. 

Q. If people visit you in your home, what do you usually offer them to drink? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: When people visit my home, I typically offer them a selection of beverages to choose from, including tea, coffee, water, and some soft drinks. I believe in providing options to accommodate different preferences and tastes. It allows guests to choose what they would enjoy the most and makes them feel welcomed and comfortable in my home. 

Topic: Colour:

Q. What’s your favourite colour? [Why?]
Q. Do you like the same colours now as you did when you were younger? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What can you learn about a person from the colours they like?
Q. Do any colours have a special meaning in your culture?
 

Q. What’s your favourite colour? [Why?]
Answer: My favourite colour is pink, and I guess many other girls like me also have a fascination with this colour. Pink is a delicate colour that means sweet, nice, playful, cute, romantic, charming, feminine, and tenderness. Pink is the colour of the universal love of oneself and of others. I love it more than any other colour.

Alternative Answer: My favourite colour is blue - the colour of the ocean and the sky. This colour is associated with depth and stability and symbolizes wisdom, trust, confidence, intelligence, faith, and heaven. From my childhood, I had been attracted to this colour and always preferred blue pairs of jeans.  I believe blue is a colour that suits me and perhaps this is one of the reasons I like it so much.

Q. Do you like the same colours now as you did when you were younger? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, pink has always been my favourite colour. My father bought me a beautiful pink doll when I was only 4 years old, and my parents painted my room pink in my childhood. Since then I am in love with this colour, and interestingly, it is still the same.

Alternative Answer: White and red were my favourite colours up until I turned 19. Strangely, I started realising the importance of the blue colour when I started travelling extensively. I watched a movie titled ‘Blue’ and then did some extensive research on this colour. Besides, my fascination with the blue pair of jeans also enhanced my weakness in this colour.

Q. What can you learn about a person from the colours they like?
Answer: I believe the choice of colours often represents some personality traits, and this tells a lot about a person. For instance, people who choose black as their favourite colour are often artistic and sensitive, and those who love the green colour are often affectionate, loyal and frank. Clearly, these are generic descriptions but provide the clue to assessing different personality types that exist within a group. More scientifically speaking, the choice of colours defines someone's preference and could be used to speculate that a person's life experience and preferences.

Q. Do any colours have a special meaning in your culture?
Answer: White is considered the symbol of peace, and red for violence in our culture. Interestingly, red is sometimes referred to as the colour of friendship and sacrifice which contradicts the earlier meaning of this colour! As far as I know, green, in our country, represents nature and prosperity while yellow is the colour of sunshine and happiness. Finally, black is considered something gloomy and sad and relates to the dark past in history. However, black is often revered, by some people in our country, as the colour of intelligence and a mystical world.

Topic: Maps:

Q. Do you think it's better to use a paper map or a map on your phone? [Why?]
Q. When was the last time you needed to use a map? [Why/Why not?]
Q. If you visit a new city, do you always use a map to find your way around? [Why/Why not?]
Q. In general, do you find it easy to read maps? [Why/Why not?]
 

Q. Do you think it's better to use a paper map or a map on your phone? [Why?]
Answer: Personally, I find using a map on my phone to be more convenient and practical. The digital maps available on smartphones provide real-time navigation, accurate directions, and the ability to zoom in and out for a detailed view. They also offer additional features like traffic updates, alternative routes, and points of interest, making it easier to plan and navigate my journeys. Furthermore, carrying a phone with a map application is more compact and easily accessible compared to carrying a physical paper map.

Q. When was the last time you needed to use a map? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: The last time I needed to use a map was during a recent hiking trip in a nature reserve. The hiking trail was quite extensive and had several intersecting paths, so having a map was crucial to ensure I stayed on the right track and reached the desired destinations. The map helped me navigate through the different trails, identify landmarks, and estimate the distances to various points of interest. It was particularly helpful in areas where the signage was limited, and the terrain was unfamiliar. 

Q. If you visit a new city, do you always use a map to find your way around? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, whenever I visit a new city, I generally use a map to find my way around, especially if I am unfamiliar with the area. Exploring a new city can be exciting but also overwhelming, and having a map provides a sense of direction and helps me navigate through the streets, locate landmarks, and plan my itinerary effectively. It allows me to get a better understanding of the city's layout, identify key attractions, and find the most efficient routes to reach different destinations.

Q. In general, do you find it easy to read maps? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I find it relatively easy to read maps. Over the years, I have developed good map-reading skills through practice and experience. Understanding the symbols, legends, and scales used on maps has become second nature to me. I can interpret different types of maps, such as road maps, topographic maps, or city maps, and effectively use them to navigate and plan my journeys. However, I do acknowledge that some maps can be complex, especially those with intricate details or unconventional layouts. In such cases, it may require more concentration and patience to decipher the information accurately.

Topic: Flowers

Q. Do you like to have flowers in your home? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Where would you go to buy flowers? [Why?]
Q. On what occasions would you give someone flowers?
Q. Are flowers important in your culture? [Why/Why not?]
 

Q. Do you like to have flowers in your home? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: This is an interesting question and I would be delighted to answer that. In fact, whenever we have a special occasion at our home, we buy flowers and consider it an integral part of the celebration. For instance, if it’s a birthday or a marriage anniversary, we buy different types of flowers and love to have them at our home. Flowers are refreshing and enhance the appeal of the celebration.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I absolutely love having flowers in my house. Flowers bring a touch of beauty and freshness to the living space. They add colour and fragrance, creating a pleasant and uplifting atmosphere. Flowers have a way of brightening up the surroundings and bringing a sense of joy and positivity.

Q. Where would you go to buy flowers? [Why?]
Answer: If I need to buy some common types of flowers, I go to a nearby floral shop that sells a good variety of flowers and flower bouquets. It offers fresh flowers and home delivery. However, if I need to purchase a flower which is not so common like chocolate cosmos or night lily, I order them from a large online shop which specialises in making bouquets for different occasions and has a great variety of flowers.

Alternative Answer: When I want to buy flowers, I usually visit a local florist. I prefer going to a florist because they offer a wide variety of fresh flowers and have expertise in floral arrangements. They can guide me in choosing the right type of flowers for different occasions and help create beautiful bouquets or floral decorations. Moreover, supporting local businesses is important to me, and visiting a florist allows me to contribute to the local community.

Q. On what occasions would you give someone flowers?
Answer: In our country, we can give someone flowers almost on any occasion to congratulate or wish good luck to this person. Perhaps giving flowers at a sad and mournful event is not recommended, and apart from that, I can present someone flowers anytime for any occasion.

Alternative Answer: Giving flowers is a common practice on various occasions. Some of the occasions when I would give someone flowers include birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, graduations, and as a gesture of appreciation or apology. Flowers symbolize love, joy, and celebration, and convey heartfelt emotions. They are thoughtful and expressive gifts that can brighten someone's day and make them feel special.

Q. Are flowers important in your culture? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Flowers are extremely important in our culture. They represent purity, innocence, happiness, selflessness and good fortune. A large number of people offer flowers to the deity they pray to while others find it a source of freshness and beauty and give them to their dear and near ones.

Alternative Answer: Yes, flowers hold significant importance in my culture. They are often used in religious ceremonies, festivals, and traditional celebrations. Flowers are considered auspicious and are used to decorate homes, temples, and public spaces during festive occasions. They symbolize purity, beauty, and prosperity. Additionally, flowers are exchanged as gestures of goodwill, respect, and affection in social and personal relationships. They play a vital role in expressing emotions and enhancing the overall ambience of cultural events and ceremonies.

Topic: Fast food

Q. What kinds of fast food have you tried? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Do you ever use a microwave to cook food quickly? [Why/Why not?] 
Q. How popular are fast food restaurants where you live? [Why/Why not?]
Q. When would you go to a fast-food restaurant? [Why/Why not?]
 

Q. What kinds of fast food have you tried? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: As I have grown up, fast food is no longer my favourite, but once upon a time I was crazy about them! I tried pizzas, sandwiches, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, tacos, doughnuts, burritos, fried chicken, pancakes, muffins, noodles, chips, milkshakes, and whatnot! However, my all-time favourites are pizza and burritos. 

Alternative Answer: I have tried various kinds of fast food, including pizzas, cheeseburgers, fried chicken, hot dogs, tacos, burritos and chicken nuggets. Fast food is easily accessible and convenient, especially when I'm in a rush or craving a quick bite. It offers a wide range of flavours and options, making it appealing to try different types of fast food. However, I do try to consume fast food in moderation and balance it with healthier food choices.

Q. Do you ever use a microwave to cook food quickly? [Why/Why not?] 
Answer: Yes, we have been using a microwave oven at our house for more than a decade. Though we mostly use it to reheat a food item, we sometimes use it to cook food faster or make an item when it is necessary, for instance, to prepare a homemade pizza. It offers the great convenience of reheating foods and cooking food by saving time and energy. 

Alternative Answer: Yes, I do use a microwave to cook food quickly on occasions when I need a fast and convenient meal. Microwaves are efficient in heating or reheating food within minutes, which saves time and effort. It's particularly useful for warming up leftovers or preparing pre-packaged meals. However, I also value the importance of fresh and homemade meals, so I try to incorporate a balance between using the microwave and cooking meals from scratch.

Q. How popular are fast food restaurants where you live? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Fast food restaurants are insanely popular, especially among children and teenagers, in the place where I live. They are everywhere, and you just need to walk a few steps to find a flamboyant fast-food restaurant with many customers. I believe they are popular among children and the young generation because they are very fond of those scrumptious, sugary and calorie-packed food items that usually satisfy their taste buds. 

Alternative Answer: Fast food restaurants are extremely popular where I live. They are widely available and attract a large customer base, especially among busy individuals or those looking for a quick meal option. The fast-paced lifestyle and time constraints of many people contribute to the popularity of fast food. Additionally, the marketing strategies and affordability of fast food chains make them appealing to a wide range of customers.

Q. When would you go to a fast-food restaurant? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I am more of a person who prefers homemade food these days but it does not deter me from visiting a nice fast-food restaurant once in a while. I believe I eat at a fast-food restaurant around three to four times a month. So there is a good possibility that I will visit one in a week or so with a few of my friends.

Alternative Answer: I would go to a fast-food restaurant when I'm in need of a quick and convenient meal, such as during busy workdays or when travelling. Fast-food restaurants offer speedy service and have a wide variety of options to choose from. They are suitable for times when I have limited time for meal preparation or when I'm looking for a specific fast-food craving. However, I also prioritize balanced nutrition and try to make healthier choices when dining out, even at fast-food restaurants.

Topic: Friends

Q. Are your friends mostly your age or different ages? [Why?]
Q. Do you usually see your friends during the week or at weekends? [Why?]
Q. The last time you saw your friends, what did you do together?
Q. In what ways are your friends important to you?
 

Q. Are your friends mostly your age or different ages? [Why?]
Answer: Most of my friends are about my age. Only two or three of them are junior to me by five to six years. As my friends are mostly from my class, it's natural that we do not have a noticeable age gap. For junior friends - they are from my neighbourhood and were my playmates in my childhood. So they became good friends of mine over time despite the age difference.

Q. Do you usually see your friends during the week or at weekends? [Why?]
Answer: I am still a student and have a few good friends in my college. So I mostly see them during the weekdays when we have classes to attend to. If we have something special to do or a plan to execute, we even meet on weekends. As for my friends from my neighbourhood, I mostly see them in the evening on weekends.

Q. The last time you saw your friends, what did you do together?
Answer: We watched a movie together at our house. That would be around two weeks ago and we watched the latest Avengers series movie. After the movie, we had numerous conversations and we talked about our plans after we graduate from college. Since I was preparing for my IELTS exam, we did not meet afterwards. But we will hopefully meet again within two to three days.

Q. In what ways are your friends important to you?
Answer: My friends actually represent me. As it is commonly believed, a person could be judged by the companies he or she keeps, and this is true in my case as well. They are my friends because we are like-minded. They often inspire me to attain excellence and carry on in my troubled days.

I can be absolutely myself with my friends, can share anything with them and they are by my side whenever I need them. In this regard, they are important to me to a great extent. I can recall numerous occasions when they selflessly supported me. I believe friends make life worth living and more colourful.

Topic: Neighbours

Q. How well do you know the people who live next door to you?
Q. How often do you see them? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What kinds of problem do people sometimes have with their neighbours?
Q. How do you think neighbours can help each other?
 

Q. How well do you know the people who live next door to you?
Answer: I know my neighbours very well. Mr and Mrs Patrick, who live adjacent to my house, are more than our neighbours, and in fact, they are like close friends. Mr Albert, who lives across from our house, is a great person and I often visit him to play chess with him. I have a few neighbours who are close family friends. Thus some of my neighbours are intimate and dear to us and we have a great relationship.

Q. How often do you see them? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I see them almost every day. Every time I go out, I see someone waving his/her hands at me and I do the same whenever I see them. Besides, some of our neighbours who walk in the park in the morning often exchange greetings with me. In terms of visiting each other, we go to their house, and they also visit us quite frequently - I would say at least once a week. Since our neighbours live close to us, we see them more frequently and have more conversations with them than our relatives.

Q. What kinds of problem do people sometimes have with their neighbours?
Answer: I believe the dispute with the fence and boundaries is a common issue among neighbours and that could be sometimes the reason for their animosity. Besides, lack of mutual respect, irrational behaviour, and letting pets run wildly could be a few other reasons people do not have a healthy relationship with their neighbours. Sometimes jealousy can crack their bond as well.

Q. How do you think neighbours can help each other?
Answer: Neighbours are often more important than relatives in the sense that our neighbours would be on our side whenever we need their help and they share our happiness and sorrows alike. Thus a good neighbour can be helpful in a tremendous way by extending his or her supporting hands in times of distress and discomfort. They look after our property when we are away and can also become our good friends over time. To cite an example, when my grandfather became severely ill all of a sudden in the middle of the night almost six months ago, my neighbours came to our help and we could have been in great turmoil without their prompt support and assistance. Thus good neighbours are a blessing for us.
 

Topic: Your favourite place

Q. What place do you most like to visit? [Why?]
Q. How often do you visit this place? [Why?]
Q. Why do you like it so much?
Q. Is it popular with many other people? [Why?]
Q. Has it changed very much since you first went there? [In what way?]
 

Q. What place do you most like to visit? [Why?]
Answer: The place, I like to visit the most, is called the “White Cliffs of Dover” in Kent. I like to visit this stunning coastline, which has been saying ‘hello’ and ‘farewell' to thousands of people crossing the English Channel for centuries because of its gorgeous geology with dazzling white chalk faces, sharp edges rising 350 feet above the sea level along with the layers of wild and lush grasses.

Q. How often do you visit this place? [Why?]
Answer: I like to visit this place, one of the most famous landmarks in the UK, if not the most, twice a year because visiting beautiful places is one of the few things that I really enjoy out of my very busy work life, and White Cliffs of Dover seems to top the list of those places which helps me relax the most because of its stunning natural beauty.

Q. Why do you like it so much?
Answer: I like visiting this place so much because of its unique feature. In fact, there are very few places on this earth where one can see such a long stretch of coastline which is completely made of white chalk. I like it also because this place, standing tall as the guardians of the island, has witnessed many historical events such as the unsuccessful Roman invasion of Julius Caesar and being on the frontline of the First World War and the Second World War.

Q. Is it popular with many other people? [Why?]
Answer: Yes, it is popular with many other people because Dover Castle is the largest castle in the UK. And the Bronze Age boat as well as the stunning-looking White Cliffs of this place are the centre of attractions to many visiting tourists. In fact, in the past few years, an average of 3.4 million people chose Dover for a day trip, and of them, over 500,000 people chose to stay there overnight.

Q. Has it changed very much since you first went there? [In what way?]
Answer: Yes, it has changed since I visited this place last time as people can enjoy an annual plant fair event now where beautiful flower plants, as well as vegetable plants, are displayed for public view. Besides, the number of visitors had also significantly increased since I visited there last time.

Topic: Leisure

Q. Do you have any hobbies or interests? [What are they?]
Q. How did you become interested in (whatever hobby/ interest the candidate mentions)?
Q. What is there to do in your free time in (candidate’s hometown/village)?
Q. How do you usually spend your holidays?
Q. Is there anywhere you would particularly like to visit? [Why?]
 

Q. Do you have any hobbies or interests? [What are they?] 
Answer: I have a number of hobbies such as watching movies, gardening and reading story books. While I enjoy having all of those hobbies, depending on my location, mood and weather condition, the most special one to me is “reading storybooks”.

Q. How did you become interested in (whatever hobby/ interest the candidate mentions)?
Answer: I became interested in some hobbies in my early high school days. In fact, my school would declare nice “awards” for the best storytellers in order to encourage students like me to take part in the storytelling competition from our favourite storybooks. I became interested in “gardening” rather recently after learning how we could stop the greenhouse effects by planting more trees. As for watching movies, I became interested in it as for long as I remember. This is entertaining, educational and one of the most popular hobbies in our country.

Q. What is there to do in your free time in (candidate’s hometown/village)?
Answer: During my free time, where I live in, one can visit the Coffee Museum in the Al Fahidi neighbourhood in order to enjoy some of the best coffee in the world, and also to learn about the history of coffee as well as the history-related artefacts. Besides, one can also enjoy public sandy beaches during his/her free time.

Q. How do you usually spend your holidays?
Answer: I usually spend my holidays visiting my parents and relatives who are living outside of my city. I also like to take my family to one of my favourite restaurants in order to enjoy some of my favourite dishes. And finally, sometimes I enjoy sports competitions on TV on holidays. 

Q. Is there anywhere you would particularly like to visit? [Why?]
Answer: Yes, I would like to visit many places in the world, given that I have enough money and time. But one place, which I would really like to visit, is “Niagra Falls” in Canada, and the reason is obvious. I want to visit it because it is a geographical wonder and one of the most famous waterfalls in the world.

Topic: Television

Q. How often do you watch television? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Which television channel do you usually watch? [Why?]
Q. Do you enjoy the advertisements on television? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Do you think most programmes on television are good? [Why/Why not?]
 

Q. How often do you watch television? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I am studying to pursue a post-graduation degree at one of the leading Engineering universities in China, and I also work at a shopping mall after school hours until 9:00 pm. By the time I arrive home after finishing everything, either it is a bit too late to do anything, or I am just exhausted. Therefore, I don’t really get to watch TV often unless there is a valid reason to do so.

Alternative Answer: I don't watch television very often. Nowadays, there are many alternative sources of entertainment and information, such as streaming platforms and online content, which offer a wider range of options and flexibility. I prefer to consume content on demand and choose programmes or movies that specifically interest me. However, I do occasionally watch television for special events, news updates, or to enjoy specific shows or movies that are being broadcasted.

Q. Which television channel do you usually watch? [Why?]
Answer: As I have mentioned earlier, I don’t really have much time to watch TV, but when I do get some time and opportunity, I like to watch “Discovery” and “AXN Asia”. I watch Discovery mainly because it allows me to learn about some of the most amazing and coolest things in the world, and I like watching AXN because it helps me to improve my English by offering subtitles for the content the channel shows.

Alternative Answer: Since I don't watch television regularly, I don't have a specific channel that I usually watch. However, when I do watch, I tend to explore different channels based on the content I'm interested in at that particular time. I may switch between news channels, documentary channels, or entertainment channels, depending on my mood or the type of program I'm looking for.

Q. Do you enjoy the advertisements on television? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I don’t exactly enjoy watching advertisements on television simply because I think of them as a waste of time. Besides, I also think that most advertisements have poor content and they try to deceive prospective customers into buying something that they don’t need.

Alternative Answer: Generally, I don't particularly enjoy advertisements on television. They can often interrupt the flow of a programme and feel repetitive. However, I understand that advertisements play a significant role in supporting television networks and programmes financially. Some advertisements can be creative and entertaining, catching my attention with their storytelling or humour. Nonetheless, I prefer watching programmes without constant interruptions from advertisements.

Q. Do you think most programmes on television are good? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Well, it depends on what kinds of programmes I am watching.  However, having said that, I would say that many programmes on television are not good because they offer very little educational perspectives. Even the news shows these days are not “objective” enough to offer the values of “news” and therefore, are not trustworthy. 

Alternative Answer: The quality of programmes on television can vary greatly, and it ultimately depends on personal preferences and interests. While television offers a wide range of content, including news, documentaries, dramas, reality shows, and more, not all programmes may appeal to everyone. Some programmes are well-produced, informative, and entertaining, while others may lack depth or originality. With the rise of streaming platforms and online content, viewers now have more control over the programmes they watch and can select content that aligns with their specific tastes and preferences.

Topic: Entertainment

Q. Do you prefer relaxing at home or going out in the evening? [Why?]
Q. When you go out for an evening, what do you like to do?
Q. How popular is this with other people in your country?
Q. Is there any kind of entertainment you do not like? [Why/Why not?]
 

Q. Do you prefer relaxing at home or going out in the evening? [Why?]
Answer: I usually prefer going outside in the evening. I think the evening time is suitable for meeting friends outdoors and doing some exercises rather than staying at home. I have been doing this for a very long time and if I stay home during the evening, I feel bored.

Q. When you go out for an evening, what do you like to do?
Answer: I mostly like to walk in a park or spend some time with my friends in the evening. I often take my bicycle and ride it for an hour or so once or twice a week. Sometimes, I go to a movie with my friends and have fun.

Q. How popular is this with other people in your country?
Answer: Walking in a park, hanging out with friends and riding a bicycle as part of outdoor activity are common among people in my country. Many young and elders do these often in the afternoon. Families often visit the theatre in the evening and spend some quality time together.

Q. Is there any kind of entertainment you do not like? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I guess I hate to see people wasting hours after hours in front of a television set. I do believe that television is a great media to get news and watch entertaining programmes, but some people are addicted to watching TV and they spend almost 6-8 hours a day watching television programmes. I just dislike this as I believe this time could be better utilised.

 

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