PART I

1. Islands

1.1. Have you ever been to any island?

Yes, I have! Actually, I lived on an island for 3 months back in 2016. My mother was offered to work at a resort for 2 years, so I joined them there for 3 months. Island life was quite an interesting experience!
1.2. Are there any islands in your country?

Yes, there are. There is one famous island called X, famed for its crystal clear water and white sands. I’ve heard the pagodas are very interesting to visit there, as well. I haven’t been yet, but I dream of going there for a girls getaway (when women go on a trip together) sometime in the future.

1.3. Do you want to live on an island if you have a chance?
Not really. Islands are beautiful, but I felt really isolated (separated from others) when I lived on one before. As I’m an active person, I felt there wasn’t much to do. Sure, the beach is great, but it gets boring day after day.
1.4. What do you like to do when you are on an island?
Beach of course! Behind that, I like getting to know the local culture and food. I especially enjoy drinking coconut water fresh off the palm trees and trying local fish recipes. Moreover, I enjoy getting hair braided (hairstyle) by local people.

2. Makeup

2.1. Do you often wear makeup?
Yes, almost everyday. If I’m just bumming (relaxing) around the house, I don’t bother putting make-up on. However, I have a very professional job, so I always put on my best attire (clothes) and make-up when I go to work. If I go without make-up, I feel sloppy (messy) and unprofessional. I also like to wear make up when I go out, just so I feel more confident with my appearance.

2.2. What does wearing makeup mean to you?
To me, it’s a way of taking pride in (be proud of) my appearance. It makes me feel like the best version of myself. Furthermore, I’m artistic, so I see my face like a canvas (a picture painted with oil paints on canvas or other cloth)

2.3. Do you give makeup as a gift?

Sometimes, but I’m always hesitant, as I don’t always know the right shade of make-up to buy for another person. If someone requests make-up, I would certainly buy it for them. However, I would feel too nervous to pick it out myself, so I would opt for buying a gift card instead.

2.4. What do you think when you see a man wearing makeup?
Nothing in particular. Everyone has the right to express themselves, so who am I to judge? I wouldn’t even blink an eye if a guy walked by me wearing make-up. Actually, I often see it in my city, so I’m quite used to it.

3. Perfume

3.1. Do you like perfume?
Yes, I do! As I'm an athlete who sweats a lot, I tend to (usually) have a strong odor. Because of this. I buy perfume incase I don't have time to take a shower before I go out.
3.2. Do you use perfume?
Everyday! I always use it after my soccer practice as well as before dates with my boyfriend. It makes me feel a lot more feminine and confident.
3.3. How much money do you spend on perfume?
Although I don't earn a great salary, I budget (plan an amount of money to be spent) to be able to buy a new bottle of Chanel perfume every few months. It costs around $80 a bottle. Sometimes when I run out (to finish) of perfume, I temporarily use a body spray which is around $15 a bottle.

3.4. Have you ever given perfume as a gift?
Hmm let me think. Actually, I haven't. I feel nervous to choose a scent for someone in case they don't like it, so I would rather (give them a gift card to a department store so they can choose their own.

3.5. Would you ever give perfume as a gift?

Although I don't prefer it, I would definitely give it as a gift. However, I would make sure that I knew the brand or scent that they like before I buy it. I know that perfume is a sensitive gift to give someone!
 

4. Transportation

4.1. What’s the most popular means of transportation in your hometown? Without any doubt I would say motorbikes. Almost everyone travels by motorbike. The reason why motorbike is so popular I think is due to their reasonable price and convenience. They also extremely varied in terms of size, color and quality, thus a wide variety of choices is available for everyone.

Vocabulary

Without any doubt/There is no doubt that (expression) a phrase expressing certainty or agreement; yes

4.2. How often do you take buses?
Almost every day. Since my house is so far away from my university, it’s impossible for me to travel by motorbike. In addition, the air is heavily polluted by exhaust fumes and traffic jams always take place, especially during peak hours. Thus, I’d prefer to take the bus, to save time, save gasoline and causing less pollution.

Vocabulary

Exhaust fumes (n) waste gasses or air expelled from an engine, turbine, or another machine in the course of its operation.
Traffic jam (n) a line or lines of stationary or very slow-moving traffic, caused by roadworks, an accident, or heavy congestion. Peak hours/Rush hours (n) the busiest hours

4.3. Can you compare the advantages of planes and trains?
Planes and trains regularly depart and arrive on time. Plus, there are many convenient facilities catering particularly to certain groups of passengers. However, traveling by plane is clearly time-saving and enjoyable in terms of on- board services like meals or comfortable seats, while traveling by train offers you a chance to see the world outside, admire the views from their seats. It’s totally a great experience for most train-travelers.

Vocabulary
On-board services (n) provided on or within a vehicle
Cater (v) provide with what is needed or required

4.4. Is driving to work popular in your country?
Although cars themselves and gasoline are expensive, a lot of people prefer driving, possibly because driving is more comfortable in such weather, with such polluted and noisy surroundings.

4.5. Do you think people will drive more in the future?
If you’re talking about India, no, I don’t think it’s possible, even in the future. Cars and gasoline are becoming unaffordable for many people these days. Plus, the transport infrastructure in various regions in India is not appropriate for cars.

Vocabulary
Transport infrastructure (n) the framework that supports our transport system

4.6. Would you ride bikes to work in the future?
Definitely not. Riding a bike means you’re exposing yourself to the unpredictable weather and to air pollution. What is worse, I’m afraid the main streets or the highway are too dangerous for cyclists, as cars, motorbikes and buses will travel at a very high speed. Thus I’d rather ride a motorbike or take the bus instead.

Vocabulary
Unpredictable weather (n) to not able to be predicted; changeable

4.7. What will become the most popular means of transport in your country?
I think buses will take the lead. You can travel the distance without much worries about ticket price or rainy weather outside. Also new buses now offer better services like comfortable seats for the elderly or good air conditioning systems.

Vocabulary

To take the lead (v) to start winning a race or competition

4.8. Do you prefer public transport or private transport ?
I think I’d prefer public transport. It’s much more inexpensive and because it can contain a large number of people, it helps ease the intensity of traffic jams during peak hours and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions caused by vehicles. Private transportation is more costly in terms of fees, taxes and gasoline.

Vocabulary
Intensity (n) of extreme force, degree, or strength
Greenhouse gas emissions (np) the emission into the earth's atmosphere of any of various gases, especially carbon dioxide, that contribute to the greenhouse effect
 

5. Trust

5.1. Who do you trust most?

I would have to say my father. Although we have our differences, I know he is 100% someone I can count on (depend on). I feel that I could tell him any secret, and I know that he would never spill the beans (tell a secret) to anyone. He is a very trustworthy and sincere person.

5.2. What kind of people do you trust?
I trust people who are transparent, those who are open with their emotions. When I feel someone keeps everything inside, I wonder what it is that they have to hide, so naturally my trust lessens. Furthermore, I trust people who aren’t always just looking out to gain something for themselves, and someone who doesn’t have a criminal background, especially involving theft.

5.3. Have you ever lost trust in somebody?
Of course! In high school, my best friend and I were attached at the hip (very close). We used to have sleepovers (when kids sleep at each other’s houses) almost every weekend, until one day my mother discovered that my friend was stealing money from her savings jar. Since that day, I felt that I couldn’t trust someone who would take advantage of my mother who always opened her home to my friend.

5.4. Do you trust artificial intelligence?
That’s an interesting question. Well, I believe that technology nowadays is advanced enough to create intelligence, but I wouldn’t say that it’s equal to human intelligence. While a robot may be better on paper (objectively more intelligent), they lack feelings, which leads me to believe that they aren’t emotionally and/or socially intelligent, which ties everything together. So, all in all, I’m not overly trusting of artificial intelligence.
 

6. Borrowing & Lending

6.1. Have you ever borrowed books from others?

Yes, I have! Actually, my friends and I often have a book exchange. I see it as a waste of money to buy every book you want to read, so it’s very effective to do this! I always look forward to (excited for) the books I’ll get from them. 6.2. Have you ever borrowed money from others? Who hasn’t? It isn’t something I enjoy doing, but something that has been necessary at certain points. For example, one time my washing machine and oven broke simultaneously (at the same time), so I asked my father if he could lend me some money to get a new one. I, of course, paid him back as soon as I could.

6.3. Do you like to lend things to others?
I would say so. To be honest, I’m always skeptical (suspicious) when I lend money to people because I’m afraid they won’t pay me back, but I do it for family members and friends when they need it anyway. Fortunately, I have friends and family that will willingly do the same for me.

6.4. How do you feel when people don’t return things they borrowed from you?
Upset, of course. I am a person of my word (does what I say), so I feel upset when others aren’t. I have been very irritated several times when people, especially my little sister, has borrowed something from me and lost or damaged it. However, if it wasn’t something very valuable, I try to remember that it isn’t the end of the world (something big or important).

6.5 Do people feel embarrassed when they request the things back from friends?
My ears often turn red out of embarrassment when I ask things back from my friends. It's natural because I don’t want to undermine the relationship we are having and requesting stuff back can hurt others’ pride and self-respect.
 

7. Mathematics

1. Do you like math?

Not at all! Maths has always been my worst subject. While I can write an amazing essay or learn foreign languages easily, I can't seem to understand numbers very well. I always feel stressed and frustrated with myself in Maths class for not being able to think logically.

2. Do you think females are good at maths?

Hmm, I can't say. I haven't noticed whether one gender is better than the other at Maths. However, I've heard the stereotype that women don't tend to think as logically as men, so maybe this affects their mathematical abilities.

3. When did you start learning Math?

Since I was 6 years old, maybe even 5. I remember doing some basic addition activities, such as counting chickens on the board. After that, we progressed onto subtraction, and then even multiplication tables and division!

4. Do you think maths is important?

Yes, I do. However, I don't think that advanced math subjects, such as Calculus, Trigonometry, Geometry, etc. are very applicable in day-to-day life. On the other hand, basic math such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are something that we use everyday, such as at the grocery store or work.

5. Who taught you maths?

My teachers, with my parents’ help at home. It all started with very basic equations like “If I take away one of these jelly beans, how many are there?”, which my parents practiced with me at home, also. But, first and foremost, it started at school.

6. Is maths difficult for you to learn?

Totally! I tend to have a more abstract (illogical) brain, so I am more apt (able) to subjects like art, literature, or music. Math was always the class I would dread (not look forward to) all day. Actually, I even failed Geometry in high school.
Do you like to use a calculator?
Yes! Calculators have made life much more convenient. Thinking back, I can’t remember a time without them. I remember my high school algebra teacher didn’t believe in them, which made the class even more of a challenge. However, I agree with her to an extent because it strengthened my mental math (math in your head) skills!
 

8. Smiling

8.1. Do you like to smile?

I love it! I have traveled extensively and seen that some other cultures smile more than others. When someone smiles, it brings me positive energy and instantly improves my mood. With this said, I have taken it upon myself to smile as much as possible to give others a warm feeling.

8.2. How often do you smile?

As much as possible! I've noticed that even when I'm having a bad day, a smile or laugh always helps. So, I try to smile whenever I meet or pass someone, as well as after a bad day.

8.3. Do you smile when you are having your picture taken?

Yes, I do! Although I prefer a more serious look for my selfies which shows off my bone structure more, I always smile in a group photo. Actually, sometimes I can't help but to smile because I am having such a good time!

8.4. When do people smile to others?

In many different cases, but I would say usually when they make eye contact with someone or to people in their workplace. In my country, people usually don't smile at everyone on the streets because that person may suspect us of wanting something from them.

8.5. Can you sense (or feel, or tell) if someone's smile is fake?

Yes, I can! I can sense a fake smile but how much it looks forced. When someone's smile is fake, they smile with just their mouth instead of their eyes. With this said, you can always tell a genuine smile by the eyes.
 

9. Time management

9.1 How do you organize your time?

Hmm, well I'm not always the most organized person, but the good thing is that

I'm not a procrastinator (someone who waits until the last minute). I always do what needs to be done first, such as my errands or work tasks. After I do what I need to do, I will then allow myself to relax.

9.2. Do you make plans every day?

No, I don't. I'm more of a spontaneous (unplanned) person. I don't like to plan every second of every day, as plans can quickly change. I only plan out what I need to do and how to get it done, but I let my social interactions come up (arise) unplanned.

9.3. Would you say you manage your time well?

More or less. I'm not the most organized nor disorganized person on the planet. However, I can say with certainty that I always complete what is asked of me. On the other hand, I sometimes can't do things like plan vacations very well.

9.4. Are you ever late for anything?

Once in a blue moon (very rarely)! I am a stickler (serious) about time, so I am almost never late. When I think about it, the only times I've been late for work were because of a traffic jam or an accident.

9.5. Do you think young people organize their time in the same way?

No, I don't. I think that's too general of a question. I believe everyone organizes their time in different ways. However, young people tend to have heavy work and study schedules, so they may not be able to manage their time and tasks as well as someone who doesn't. So, in this case, young people have to prioritize(decide what is most important) more.

9.6. What's the biggest difficulty you have when managing time?

I would have to say my social life. As I have a demanding work schedule, I tend to lose track of time and forget to add in time to spend with my friends and family. I am looking for a way to manage this better.

10. Flats/Houses/Accommodation

10.1. Do you like a house or a flat/ an apartment?

I believe most people would prefer to have their own house rather than to rent a place and so do I. Hence, if I have my way, a house with a small garden would be my choice since I don’t enjoy the constant disturbance from next-door apartments and elevator rides everytime coming home.

Vocabulary

Have/ get one’s way (idiom): get or do what one wants in spite of opposition

10.2. What kind of housing/accommodation do you live in?

For the past 21 years I have lived in a house with my family. And I think if I can move out and start making a living on my own, I would try my best to have an independent place where I can plan and design a house layout to suit myself since sharing a room or a flat with strangers sounds so troublesome to me.

Vocabulary

To afford (v) to be able to financially support/have enough money to pay for Sth
Suit myself (v) to do exactly what you like/want
Troublesome (adj) causing difficulty or annoyance
To make a living (v) to earn enough to support one’s self

10.3. What do you usually do in your house/flat/room?

Well definitely I’ll spend some me-time there. I study, I chill out by reading, drawing and dancing all by myself. Sometimes I also invite one or two friends to spend time with. We’ll watch some movies together and tell each other endless stories.
Chill out (phrasal verb) relax
Me-time (phrase) time for one’s self alone
To do Sth all by one’s self (phrase) to do Sth alone

10.4. Who do you live with?

I live with my family. There are 5 of us and we all have our own room, which is way more comfortable as the older we grow, the more privacy we need for ourselves. I think our house is big enough for us yet still a warm and cozy place that I call home.

10.5. How long have you lived there?

Although during my childhood my family had to move a lot, I’ve lived in the most recent house for almost ten years. Comparing to the old houses, I think this house has been the best so far.

10.6. Do you plan to live there for a long time?

The answer would be yes if the respondent is my parents, since moving in and out is too time-consuming and exhausting. Cleaning and arranging everything all over again would be like torture to them. For me, on the other hand, as I’m thinking of moving out to start my adult life, hopefully soon I’ll be able to afford to live in a flat or an apartment.

Vocabulary

All over again (idiom) used for saying that you do the whole of something again starting from the beginning, or that the whole of a long
Torture (n) great physical or mental suffering

10.7. What’s the difference between where you are living now and where you have lived in the past?

As I’ve already mentioned my family moved several times when I was younger. And the most current house where we’ve been living for about ten years is the best house so far. All of us have separate rooms for our need of privacy yet a big dining room where we can spend the whole evenings together watching TV or having dinner.

Vocabulary

Need of Sth/doing Sth (phrase) circumstances in which something is necessary; necessity

10.8. Can you describe the place where you live?/ Please describe the room you live in

Briefly, my humble house locates in a small and quite street, so coming home to me is like all the craziness happened outside is left behind. Just beside my house stands a big old tree. I have my own room with walls painted violet, which is kinda a peaceful color. The air outside is fresh. I usually open the window to enjoy the wind and sunshine, which will help cool down my room without an air conditioner. Since I spend most of my time staying at home, my room means the whole world to me. It’s like a friend who is always there to share ups and downs with me. So yeah, I would always miss my house, my room whenever I’m away.

Vocabulary

Humble (adj) having or showing a modest or low estimate of one's own importance
To help (SO) do Sth (v) to make it easier or possible for (someone) to do something by offering them one's services or resources.
To share ups and downs (v) together being through good and bad times
To be away (adj) to or at a distance from a particular place, person, or thing

10.9. Which part of your home do you like the most?

It’s the dining room where my family spends our time together. Not only lunch or dinner but all our family reunions take place in the dining room where we can enjoy a harmonious atmosphere. We always try to keep the family dinner as something we cannot go a day without, since for us it’s the family bonding that lies behind.

Vocabulary

Reunion (n) a social event for a group of people who have not seen each other for a long time
Harmonious (adj) friendly and peaceful
To go a day without Sth/doing Sth (v) to feel not necessary to do Sth on a day

10.10. Why do you think some people invest a huge amount of money in buying houses?

People certainly have different reasons to buy a property. I believe the most important one is privacy. You will gain much more independence and freedom to refurbish the place as you please since you are the owner. Besides, it would create a pride of ownership. No matter how small or big your house is, it is yours to renovate or brag about.
Property (n): a building or buildings and the surrounding land
Refurbish (v): to clean and decorate a room, building, etc. in order to make it more attractive, more useful, etc.
As one please (idiom): whatever you like, or in whatever way you prefer Ownership (n): the fact of owning something
Renovate (v): to repair and paint an old building, a piece of furniture, etc. so that it is in good condition again
Brag (+about) (v): to talk too proudly about something you own or something you have done

10.11. Should we live in a flat or a house?

It heavily depends on people’s preference and affordability since each type of property has its own perks. If one enjoys the modern amenities that an apartment complex can provide such as gyms, swimming pools and convenience stores and, of course, he has money, an apartment would be a great choice. In contrast, houses are usually suitable those who prefer privacy and a quiet lifestyle.

Affordability (n): the fact of being cheap enough that people can afford to buy it or pay it; how affordable something is
Perk (n): a benefit or advantage that you get from a situation
Amenity (n): a feature that makes a place pleasant, comfortable or easy to live in
 

11. Reading

11.1. Do you like reading?

Yes, I’m definitely a book worm (a person who loves to read)! I believe that books are a way to not only escape, but also to gain more knowledge. By the same token, people who read tend to have a richer vocabulary and a higher level of general knowledge, so they tend to have more to converse about.

11.2. What books do you like to read?

I’m definitely a fan of fiction. I don’t know why, but I’ve always been more into reading about real-life accounts, self-help books, or biographies rather than far- fetched (unreal) fantasies or science fiction novels. I know it’s an unpopular opinion, but I’ve never liked Harry Potter or Star Wars!

11.3. What book did you read recently?

I recently read a book by a Buddhist monk called “How to Love”. The book goes over (reviews) the ways to love someone in a nourishing way, such as giving them freedom and always searching for understanding rather than seeking possession.

11.4. What did you learn from it?

I learned so much from this book! I learned about different meditation uniques and some new ideas on how to define love. After reading this book, I felt in such a deep zen (relaxed) state.

11.5. What was your favorite book as a child?

I remember being very fond of a book called “My Sister’s Keeper”. I recall that it was the story of two sisters, one of which needed a kidney transplant. Although the sister was initially apprehensive (scared; nervous) to do so, she ended up donating a kidney to her sister and saving her.
 

12. Rubbish/ Garbage

12.1. Do you think it’s important to keep the city clean?

Very! Our future generation relies on what we do to take care of our planet in the present. Furthermore, I believe we all have a social responsibility to do what we can to keep it as clean as possible. It is negative to our health, as well as how it looks aesthetically (appealing to beauty) to have a dirty city.

12.2. Do you recycle things like paper and plastic?

Always. First, I separate the garbage in my house into paper, plastic, glass, etc then take it to the recycling bin which is available in my condominium complex. Along with this, I reuse plastic as often as possible.

12.3. What do you do when you see rubbish on the street?

Pick it up. If I can find a garbage can or recycling bin, I’ll take it there. If I can’t, I’ll carry it with me until I can dispose of it at my house. I know it’s yucky (disgusting) to carry it around, but it’s worth it.

12.4. Can you suggest why some people throw their litter on the ground?

I think it could be because of lack of concern, ignorance, or perhaps lack of education. I think this education all starts at home and school, so they just simply may not know if they never learned. Furthermore, I think some people simply don’t care because they don’t think their one small act with have a negative effect on the planet.

12.5. Would you like to help other people to keep your town or city tidy?

Absolutely! I love to take part in city clean-up activities. It would be my dream to start my own NGO, so I’m even thinking about creating one with an environmental cause. Apart from this, I’m a teacher, so I always integrate environmental topics into my classes.

12.6. Do you think plastic bags are a serious environmental problem?

Very! They aren’t the only subject to focus on, but there is concrete evidence of the negative effects that plastic has on our entire planet and ecosystems, as it cannot decompose. I feel very upset when I see videos of animals dying from ingesting plastic, etc.

12.7. Do you think it's important to protect the environment?

Very! It isn’t something that only affects us, but also our future generations. If we destroy the planet now, there won’t be a healthy one for our children, grandchildren, and so on. Furthermore, along with humans, we also have to think about the state of our ecosystems in order to create a sustainable future.

12.8. Do you think schools should educate children to protect the environment?

Of course! Education is a very powerful tool to change the world. We have to educate them on even the simple steps they can take to create a more sustainable future, as well as let them know the risks we face. Moreover, we have to show them the significance of it all.
 

13. Tea or coffee

13.1. What do you prefer, tea or coffee?

I’m definitely more of a tea person. However, I need a cup or two of coffee to shift myself into gear (to get started) in the morning. After this, I always stick with (choose) tea. Coffee tends to make me feel a bit anxious, whereas tea gives me a natural, energized feeling. Moreover, tea has more health benefits for me, especially since I’m prone to (easily get) colds and coughs.

13.2. What do you usually prepare for your guests, tea or coffee?

Definitely tea. As I don’t have a coffee-maker or French press, I wouldn't want to serve instant coffee, so I always heat up water in my kettle and serve some tea, either in bags or fresh. Since I have quite a collection of different teas, I feel prouder to share this with my guests.

13.3. When was the last time you drank coffee or tea?

Just before this exam actually! I drank 2 cups of green tea this morning with my breakfast. As I was a tad nervous, I decided not to drink coffee this morning, as it sometimes causes me to feel jittery (nervous and shaking).
 

14. Forest

14.1.When was the last time you went to a forest?

Hmm, let me think, it’s been a while. Well, a couple years ago, my boyfriend and I went on a hike through a forest on the border of Germany and Belgium. It was really beautiful! The pine trees and thick greenery were really impressive. 14.2. Do you like to go to a forest if you are free?

I like it, but it wouldn’t be my first place. Instead of a forest, I would rather go to the beach or the mountains. There’s something I find a little eerie (creepy) about being in a forest. I always fear the critters (animals), or even worse the people who could be lurking around (hanging out) in the forest.

15. Social Network

15.1. Are you a social person?
Very much so! I feel that I thrive on (survive) social interactions. I like a small amount of time to myself each day, but I feel most charged when I spend time with others. I prefer to spend my free time with friends or family rather than being in my room reading a book, for instance.

15.2. What kind of social networking websites do you like to use?

Just the usual ones, like Facebook and Instagram. I used to be into (interested) posting positivity on Facebook, but now I prefer to post just photography on Instagram instead. As I’m an avid (experienced) traveler, I like to showcase my photography as a way to share my stories with others.

15.3. What kind of people do you like to be friends with on those websites?

All kinds! I am friends with a wide range of people from my school years, family members, and friends I’ve recently met. Actually, I’m even friends with people who I’ve never even met before.

15.4. Is it easy to find a real friend on a social networking website?

It depends. The thing is, I think people are superficial on social media sites, and that some people lie about their identities. However, I think one can still meet a genuine friend online, but they must practice more caution.

15.5. What kinds of chatting apps do people in your country like to use?

I would say the most common are Facebook messenger, Imessage, Instagram Direct Message, and Whatsapp. Nowadays, as most people have Iphones, I think Imessage is the most prominent, followed by Instagram.
 

16. Visiting Relatives

16.1. Do you often visit your relatives? (Why?)

Yes, I do! When I was younger, I used to find it boring, but now that I'm older, I cherish (enjoy/value) the time I have with my relatives. I plan to see different relatives every Sunday.

16.2. What do you do when you visit them?

We usually keep it pretty simple. We tend to have a meal at one of our houses or just sit in the living room and talk. From time to time, we decide to go out to eat or to do something else, like maybe the cinema or the park.

16.3. When was the last time you visited them? what did you do?

Just this morning actually! I went over to bring my grandparents lunch, since they aren't very mobile anymore. We ate chicken salad then I helped them pay their bills online and chatted.

16.4. Do you prefer visiting your relatives, or your friends?

I like both for different reasons. I would say I probably enjoy seeing my friends more because it's a time to de-stress and have fun, whereas seeing family involves more stress and judgment. However, I think family is more important.

16.5. Do you take anything when you visit your relatives?

Of course! I always try to bring some flowers or some sort of contribution to the meal, as I'm not one who likes to show up empty-handed (with nothing). I especially like to bring something to my relatives after a vacation, like a souvenir- such a keychain, magnet, or T-shirt.
 

17. Amusement Park

17.1. Do you like amusement parks?

I love them! I think they are something that all ages can enjoy. I still feel just as excited about them now as I did when I was a child. There’s nothing like the feeling of your stomach dropping on a rollercoaster.

17.2. How often do you go to amusement parks?

Not very often anymore, maybe once every few years. However, in the past, we used to go every year. Nowadays, we go every few years. We’re planning on going to Six Flags this October for Halloween, actually. They always have a special event there with haunted houses and costumes!

17.3. What do you usually do at amusement parks?

Rides, eat at concession stands, go swimming, and wait in line for a long time! My favorite rides are roller coasters and water rides, especially on hot days. For example, I love the log flume ride where you get a huge splash at the end. Moreover, I love the wave pools (a pool with generated waves) and lazy rivers (rivers where you relax and float).
 

18. Tiredness

18.1. What kinds of things make you tired?
I’m generally a lethargic (tired; low energy) person, so I tend to get tired easily. I usually start to feel sleepy when I sit in a boring lecture and work in an office. Moreover, I tend to feel tired when I eat too much or drink alcohol.

18.2. What do you do when you feel tired?

Sometimes I decide to fight it with a cup of coffee or another form of caffeine, or I simply surrender (give up) and take a nap. However, when I take a nap, I tend to sleep for too long and feel even more tired afterwards, so it’s better to fight through my fatigue (tired).

18.3. Who do you usually talk to when you feel mentally tired?

Just my closest friends or family. When I feel that way, I don’t like to be in social situations in which I have to meet new people because I feel that I can’t give my best self to them. I would rather retire to my room to listen to some music and fall asleep.

18.4. Do you like to talk to strangers when you feel mentally tired?

Not at all. I like to have full energy when I meet new people. When I meet new people when I’m exhausted, I feel dull (boring) and unable to engage in meaningful conversation.
 

19. Work/Study

Work

What is your job?

I’m the founder and project manager for a volunteer organization called Corazon de Apus. We find local children living in poverty or with difficult family situations and bring them to a safe place after school where they can learn English with the volunteers from Western countries, get homework help, and simply play and escape their problems. We also pitch in (everyone gives some money) to provide them with school supplies, dental care, and uniforms.

How long have you been doing your job?

This is my 4th year on the job. Actually, at university I studied Finance, but I realized a 9- 5 isn’t for me. I knew I needed to do a job that helps those in need. However, my finance skills do come in handy (are useful) in this job!
How was your first day at work?

I felt a little overwhelmed with all the volunteers coming to me asking all the ins and outs (all the details), but very excited at the same time. All of the stress was worth it when I saw the smiles of the children. Actually, they tackled me (to jump on and push to the ground) to ground with hugs!

Do you prefer part time or full time job? Why?

Well, of course I would rather have a part-time job! If I had a part-time job, I would invest the rest of my time to do the things that truly interest me, such as yoga, meditation, see family and friends, etc. I’m sure we would all feel happier if we were able to do this. Unfortunately, the problem is the money though! Which job did you want to do when you were a child?

I used to dream of being a zookeeper. I have no clue why I thought it would be enjoyable to clean up after large, exotic animals! I guess I always loved animals. Anyway, this dream has passed!
Which job do you prefer in the future?

I would like to continue in the volunteer field, but keep expanding the projects. For example, I have dreamt of going to remote villages in the mountains and educating the people about public health, as it is a big problem in Peru. I hope to aid in (to help) reducing preventable disease.
 

Study

Describe your education

I’m on a 5 year study plan, so I’ll finish in 2 years. Next year, I’ll begin my internship at a clinic for substance addicts. I really look forward to that hands on experience. After my Bachelor’s, I plan to go onto my Master’s, perhaps even my PhD.

What is your area of specialization?

I’m a Psychology major with a minor in Spanish language.

Why did you choose to study that major?

As I’ve always been fascinated by how the mind works, I felt that Psychology was the ideal field of study for me. Furthermore, I believe I have wonderful interpersonal skills and can easily connect and empathize with others, making me the perfect fit.

What was your favourite subject as a child?

I’ve always loved Art because it helps me relax and well, I’m quite good at it. After all the strenuous hours of book work in the other classes, it was always a relief for me to come to my canvas. I feel that Art is an incredible outlet (a way to express feelings) for me.

Do you think your country has an effective education system?
To an extent yes, but I also think it can be too theoretical at times. I think they need to teach us how to use the information we learn more rather than just have us memorize for the exam. All in all, I cannot complain too much though.

Are you looking forward to working?

Absolutely! I cannot wait to put into effect what I’ve been learning for years now. I’m eager to help people with the psychological struggles that they face. I believe I can make a difference in the world.

20. Travel & Festival

20.1. Do you like traveling?

Not really actually! I’m more of a creature of habit (someone who doesn't like changes to routine), so I’m usually not keen to change my daily routine. When I change it up, I often feel anxious and disoriented (not a clear mind). Furthermore, I have a fear or airplanes and get carsick, so traveling just isn’t for me.

20.2. Do you often travel by air?

Not at all! I try to avoid it at all costs (very seriously). If I must travel, I will take some motion sickness (getting sick from any kind of transportation) medicine and go by car or train. I was once on an airplane on my honeymoon that came very near to crashing, so my phobia (strong fear) stems from (comes from. Stem is the part where the flower grows) this.

20.3. How long was the longest trip you took?

I once had to go on business to the Philippines. It was a 24 hour flight! It was a nightmare (we saw this when something is very terrible). On top of this, I was seated next to a child who was relentlessly (not stopping) crying during the entire journey.

20.4. Which country would you like to travel to in the future?

I’m dying to (I really want to) go to Egypt. I’ve always dreamt of going there since I was a child, actually. I’m really fascinated by their ancient culture. I would be in awe of (amazed by) the Grand Pyramids I’m sure. Unfortunately, since I despise (hate) flying, I dont think I’ll ever get there.

20.5. Would you like to travel to space?

Perhaps! I’m not sure how it feels to be in a rocket. I think it would be incredible to see a completely foreign galaxy (another world). I’m curious if other life forms (aliens) exist, so I would definitely go along on this journey to find out for myself. I also wonder if the moon is made out of cheese!

20.6. What is your favorite festival?

Hmm, that’s a tough question because I’m definitely a holiday person (a person who likes holidays), but I would have to say New Years Eve. I’m always keen (want) for change and new beginnings, so I love setting new goals at the start of each new year, not to mention I really enjoy the parties. Second to this would be Valentine’s Day, since I’m a hopeless romantic (a very romantic person).

20.7. How do you celebrate the festival?

In my culture, it’s more very family-oriented holiday. We usually have a special family dinner at home followed by the countdown to midnight. However, in my culture we add something special to it. At the clock ticks down to midnight, we eat 12 grapes which signify a different wish for each month. After this, we go out to the city or town streets to drink with our friends and wish them a happy new year.

20.8. What is the most popular festival in your country?

Definitely Christmas, since I’m from a Catholic country. Nearly every town and city goes out of the way to deck (decorate) the streets out with Christmas lights and decorations. However, unlike other countries, we celebrate the epiphany, or day of the three wise men, on January 6 just as much at the 25th. This is the day in which we exchange gifts and watch parades.

20.9. Do you like western festivals?

Of course! They are part of my culture. I especially love Christmas, Easter, and New Years since they have always been part of my upbringing (childhood). However, I also find eastern festivals interesting. I lived in Vietnam for 2 years, and I was in awe (amazed) of the Lunar New Year and Mid-Autumn festival.

20.10. Where do people usually go during festivals?

Between homes and the streets. We hold meals in our homes for the holidays, as we value home-cooked meals. However, we are people who enjoy going out, so we often go out to celebrate at bars or even in the streets. For example, the Christmas Eve celebration entails going to a bar with friends until the wee hours (early hours) of the morning, followed by a family lunch the next day.

Do you like travelling?

I adore it! I definitely caught the travel bug (became addicted to) after my first trip abroad in 2011 to Australia. Since I first discovered the thrill of being lost in a new place, I have become an avid traveler.

Do you like travelling long distance?

Yes, I do! I don’t mind the long flights or jet lag whatsoever. I am thrilled by discovering other cultures and customs completely opposite from my homeland. Actually, I never fear what’s foreign to me.

Do you often travel by plane?

Several times a year, sometimes even once a month. I’m a travel addict, so I always have my next plane ticket booked to keep me going. Although I don’t have a high salary, I always find a way to fly via discount airlines and saving year-round.

Would you say your country is a good place for tourists to visit?

For sure! We have a wide range of ecosystems- from the Amazon Rainforest, The Iguazu Waterfalls, to the pristine coastlines. Brazil has so much rich culture and festivals to offer to tourists, not to mention the warm, fun-loving people.

In which season do you prefer to travel?

As I have 4 weeks of vacation in the winter, I prefer to travel during this time. I usually spend Christmas with my family in Brazil, then travel around to my neighboring countries. Actually, last year I traveled to Canada and now this year I will go to Vietnam Cambodia, and Thailand.

What was your first travel in your life?

Fortunately, the first trip I ever took abroad was to Australia. My parents sent me to stay with a host family in Australia to learn English while I traveled. Along with Australia, I visited New Zealand the the island of Fiji.

Where do you plan to travel next?

This coming year, I have a trip planned to Southeast Asia- to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand with my husband. We will begin in Bangkok and discover the islands and elephant sanctuaries of Thailand, then move onto Hanoi, Vietnam and ride motorbikes to the south, then enter Cambodia to visit Angor Wat and Phnom Pen. I can’t wait to discover this part of the world!

21. Street Markets

21.1. Do you like going to street markets?

I love it! I love the whole experience of seeing people selling their products, as well as I believe that the freshest produce comes from there. I would much rather go to a street market than a large name brand supermarket, where the produce is treated with pesticides and other chemicals to keep it from perishing.

21.2. Are there many street markets in your country?

Not really. There a few farmer’s market, but they aren’t very common. People usually do their grocery shopping at large supermarkets.

21.3. What do people usually buy at street markets?
I’d say the most common items are fresh fruits and vegetables, maybe even meats or fish as well. However, the farmer’s markets in my town tend to only sell fruits, vegetables, and local products such as honey from their bee farming.

21.4. What is the difference between street markets and supermarkets?

Street markets have fresher products and usually involve local people or farmers coming to sell their products, whereas supermarkets sell more commercialized products. Although street market food may be tasty and fresh, supermarket food can be safer since they have tighter restrictions from the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

22. Playing

22.1. Where did you play when you were a child?

As I grew up in an outdoorsy (someone who likes nature) family, I always used to play outside in my yard. Since we lived on a large piece of property that was partly wooded, I often used to play in there and find creatures such as snakes, turtles, salamanders (a lizard-like animal), frogs, or other critters. As a kid, I was never afraid of creepy crawlers (scary insects like spiders)! On rainy days, I would come inside and spend hours by my doll house or coloring.

22.2. Did you play at your friend's home?

Yes, I did! I had a few best friends, so we would often set up playdates (when parent arrange a time for their kids to play together). All of my friends also had big yards, so we would play tag, jump on the trampoline, play hide and seek, etc. One of my friends had a Nintendo Game Cube which I didn’t have, so we would spend hours playing Mario Kart or Super Smash Bros.

22.3. Did you prefer to play outside or inside when you were young?

Definitely outside! I always had more fun in my sandbox or finding critters (small animals/insects) rather than sitting inside playing games or watching TV. I know that no matter how much I change, I’ll always be an outdoorsy person.

22.4. Do you think it’s important for children to play outside?

Very! Nowadays, I feel sad that children are glued to (always attached to) video games and TV rather than spending time taking in breaths of fresh air. Of course some video games and cartoons are okay, but I think children should spend more time outdoors to benefit their mental and physical health.

23. Sports/ Physical Exercises

23.1. Do you like to watch sports on TV?

Not at all! I despise (hate) it. I get extremely bored and disinterested. I usually try to avoid watching sports on TV at all costs unless it’s an exciting event, like the World Cup or Super Bowl. In that case, I go for the social event rather than the game itself.

23.2. Do you play any sports?

Not anymore. I was an avid (enthusiastic) swimmer as a child, but I gave that up after high school, as it was quite time-consuming. Nowadays, I enjoy going to the gym, running around the lake by my house, and going on mountain treks. I’m not sure if these are considered sports, but I’m really into physical activity.

23.3. Which is the popular sports in your country?

Soccer of course! As soccer is the sport of the world, that would be number one. People go wild when our team wins a game- they even drive around waving flags, blocking off the streets! Apart from this, many people enjoy playing tennis and doing martial arts.

23.4. Who is your favorite sports star?

As I’m not a big sports fan, I don't really have one. However, I think I may like Cristiano Ronaldo. Although I don't know anything about him or his athletic abilities, I think I've always been drawn to him (attracted to) because of his looks.

23.5. What kinds of sports would you like to try in the future?

I’m really intrigued by soccer. I think it’s something that can really connect people, as well as is good cardiovascular and coordination activity. Actually, I wish I had gotten into it as a child. I think it would be interesting to join a league in my city.

23.6. Do you do any physical exercise?

You could call me a couch potato (a lazy person who sits on the sofa a lot. “Couch” is another word for sofa). I’m naturally thin without any exercise, so I’m quite lazy when it comes to exercise. I do go for mountain hikes, but I should definitely do more to gain muscle.

23.7. Do young people in your country like to do exercise?

Gyms are not very popular in my country because of the cost, but I would say that people get their fair share of exercise everyday because of the hills in the city. Many people climb a mountain to their home every single day! I used to live in a house that was unreachable by car and a total of 200 stairs to get there!

23.8. Do you think people are keen on doing physical activity? Why?

Well, I think they are quite accustomed to it. I don’t think they would be too keen on going to the gym, but they really enjoy going on mountain hikes. Since our religion is based upon the Mother Earth and the Mountain Gods, these treks are a spiritual journey.

24. Hometown

24.1. Please describe your hometown a little

Where do I begin? My hometown is marvelous. It was the heart of (the center of) the Inca Empire, and is home many ancient Inca ruins, especially Machu Picchu. It lies at 3,100 meters up in the mountains. You can do a lot of trekking, site seeing, visit incredible natural landscapes, etc. It’s a perfect mixture of the ancient and modern world.

24.2. How long have you been living there?

I was born and raised in Cusco. I’ve lived there for my entire life, except for when I went to Lima, the capital city, to study my Bachelor’s Degree. After that, I needed to escape the hustle and bustle (noise from a big city) and come back to my lovely town.
24.3. What do you like (most) about your hometown?

I love that it’s a mix between the ancient and modern world. Furthermore, I like the mix of the indigenous (native people) and Spanish influence. Sometimes it feels like I’m walking in the shoes of the Incas. Furthermore, there is definitely a warm, friendly feel to the town which makes it a pleasant place to live.

24.4. Would you like to live there in the future?

Although my city is magical, I would consider moving somewhere else in the world. I think sometimes people become too accustomed to (used to) their daily routine. So, perhaps when and if I have a family, I would consider moving to another country in South America or to Spain. It would be our adventure!
 

25. Walking

To be honest, I kind of prefer to walk alone. For one, I’m kind of a slow walker, so I don’t like it when other people pressure (pressure somebody to do something to persuade somebody to do something) me to stay at their pace (speed). By the same token, I enjoy the self-reflection time I have when I walk.

26. Weather

26.1. Do you like hot weather?

I’m used to it. My city is very hot and humid, so it’s something I’m built for. I adapt by buying clothes that withstand sweat well, such as cotton or linen. On the other hand, I avoid materials like silk or wool that cause one to sweat more and/or feel sticky.

26.2. What kind of weather is typical in your hometown?

It’s a jungle climate, so it’s quite hot all year long. During wet season, it is extremely humid and sticky. For many, the climate is hard to take. For me, I’m used to it. I don’t even sweat profusely (sweat a lot).

26.2. What do you do in hot weather?

Since I live close to the coast, I often go to the beach on hot days. I also have a pool in my apartment complex, so you can often find me there on hot days, as well. On days that are unbearable, I stay inside in the air conditioning and watch TV or go to the gym.

26.3. What is your favorite season?

I would say dry season. It’s difficult to get around during wet season during a downpour since our culture is to go around by motorbike, not to mention that the streets flood easily. All in all, it’s a hassle (annoying or difficult). So, I much prefer the dry season since it’s a dry, more bearable heat.

26.3. Would you like to visit a hot country?

Sure! It’s something I’m used to. I am interested in countries in Asia and the Middle East, such as India, Cambodia, and Saudi Arabia, and the heat wouldn’t stop me from visiting there. I would simply wear breathable clothes and stay inside during the peak heat hours.

26.4. Do you like wet weather?

No! I don’t know why, but I tend to feel a little down in the dumps (depressed) in the rain. I especially feel that way when I wake up in the morning and it’s still dark. So, a sunny climate definitely suits me better!

26.5. How many seasons are there in your place?

Two seasons- wet and dry. They each last about half the year. In wet season, there are downpours (extreme, heavy rain) and it’s generally humid and sticky. In dry season, it is a dry heat. I find dry season to be a lot more comfortable although the flora in wet season is more impressive.

26.7. What kind of weather do you like most?

If I could choose, I would say about 28 degrees, dry, with a cool breeze. This would be ideal whether to go for a motorbike ride around the countryside or lie out on the beach. Since I don’t like extremes, this would be perfect for me.

27. City/ Countryside

27.1. Do you like the city you are living in now?

Yes, I really enjoy ABC city. Although it’s quite hectic, I love the liveliness of it. Apart from this, I think it’s exciting since it is developing at a rapid pace (quickly) and I love the international environment. This city never sleeps!

27.2. Which city have you been to recently?

I recently visited Bangkok for a short holiday. I had about 3 days free, so I went there to visit the floating market, palaces, Buddhist temples, and vibrant city center.

27.3. Do you prefer the city or the countryside?

I would say I’m definitely a city person. I enjoy the hustle and bustle (craziness) of city life, along with the endless opportunities to meet new people from all over. I feel too limited in the countryside, not to mention I’m terrified of critters (small animals, like spiders, etc).

27.4. What kinds of city do you like?

A mix of modern and old. I like when there is an old historic quarter, but also a district with skyscrapers and a more futuristic look. Moreover, I require a city with friendly people and smiles- I couldn't live in fast-paced, robotic (people moving so fast that they don't have any expression) place like New York City for example.

27.5. Which city do you want to go to?

I’ve always dreamt of going to San Francisco. I’ve always seen the Golden Gate Bridge, charming doll-house like homes, and cable cars on TV and imagined myself there. Moreover, San Francisco seems to be a very liberal city which I would be into.

28. Patience

28.1. Do you have patience?
Not at all! I’m quite an impatient person. I often feel on edge (stressed), especially when I’m behind the wheel or waiting in line. Moreover, I like immediate gratification, so I tend to lose my patience when I cannot obtain this. This is one my biggest downfalls (bad personality traits).

28.2. Do most people in your country have patience?

Not really. Since I come from a country of people who are used to having all conveniences at their fingertips (something easily accessible), they often become impatient when this doesn't happen. Furthermore, people spend a lot of time commuting (traveling from home to work) to their offices in the mornings, which tends to leave them feeling antsy (anxious) as well as angry at other drivers.

28.3. Have you ever lost patience?

Who hasn’t? There have been several instances. I once became quite impatient while I was waiting in a convenience store, not to mention with people cutting the line repeatedly, and I just left my items there idly (not doing anything) and stormed out (left angrily) of the store.

28.4. When do you need patience the most?

That’s a difficult question. I think having patience in general is quite a virtue (a good trait). I think it’s good to have it with your life in general. When you have this, I imagine your life goes more at ease from step to step. Moreover, I think it’s important to have it with your children so that they aren’t raised in an angry environment, and furthermore so they can develop it later on in life.
 

29. Pets/ Wild Animals

29.1. What's your favorite animal?

Hm.. I would have to say whales. I’ve been fascinated by them ever since I was a child. There’s just something so majestic about them, maybe it has to do with (is related to) their size. Plus they are highly intelligent and family-oriented creatures. It’s believed that they even speak their own languages!

29.2. Do you like to see animals in the zoo?

Not really. Sure, it’s interesting to see them, but I also feel sad seeing them in cages. In my opinion, wild animals should not be in captivity (caged) unless they have some sort of injury. Actually, I think it’s a shame that humans feel the need to see nature so badly that they cage them and charge people to enter.

29.3. Do you keep a pet?

Not currently. I would like to, but I’m actually not allowed to because of my apartment regulations. Additionally, I live in a small studio apartment so it wouldn't be the best environment for a pet, unless it were a cat or small animal. Moreover, I work full-time so I wouldn't have a lot of time to tend to the pet.

29.4. Did you have a pet when you were young?

Yes, I did. My parents were both animal lovers (people who love animals), so we always had a house full of pets. My first pet was a lizard named Charlie, then onto my very own black kitten named Pal. Although I played too hard with my pets and made them annoyed, I still got a lot of joy from them. Additionally, I also learned a sense of responsibility from a young age.

29.5.What pet will you have later?

Hmm. I think I want a dog and a cat. When I think about it more, I cannot imagine having a family without a dog for my children one day. I can envision them playing with a Golden Retriever or a Labrador retriever, as they have a friendly demeanor (way of being). On the other hand, I’m more of a cat person (a person who prefers cats to dogs), so I would like to have one as well.

29.6. If you raise children in the future, will you allow them to keep a pet?

Yes, for sure. I would like to make their dreams come true of having a pet, as many children want. Moreover, I feel a pet is a great addition to a family. Lastly, I think allowing them to have a pet is a good opportunity for them to begin to have a sense of responsibility when it comes to walking their pet, changing the litter box (the box where cats go to the bathroom), feeding them, cleaning the cage, etc.

30. Dance

30.1. Do you like to dance? (Why?/Why not?)

Yes, I do! Although I don't know how to formally dance very well, I enjoy letting loose (relaxing; not caring what others thing) and dancing with my friends. There is something about dancing that makes me feel incredibly carefree (fully relaxed). Furthermore, it’s a good way to exercise.

30.2. Have you ever learned to dance?

Yes, I have! When I was about 4 years old, my parents signed me up for ballet. Actually, I hated it with a burning passion back then. I would often burst into tears (to cry hard) before recitals and try to play sick (pretend to be sick to avoid something). Furthermore, we learned swing dancing, square-dancing, and ballroom dancing in school, which were humiliating at the time!

30.3. When was the last time you danced?

It’s been a while. Since my group of friends aren't into dancing, I haven't been out to a club for a while. However, I often dance around my apartment with music as a way to de-stress.

30.4. What kind of dancing do people in your country like?

It seems like many people are into salsa and bachata these days. I’m seeing more and more Facebook ads for these particular dances. Moreover, are into hip-hop dancing, as well as dancing along to EDM music.

30.5. Why do you think some (or, many) people like dancing?

I would say because it’s a way to let loose. Moreover, it’s a way of self- expression for many, especially those who are more talented. When you hit (go to) the dance floor, it seems like all your worries go away and you simply focus on the movements of your body.

30.6. Do you think there are any benefits for young people to go dancing?

Without a doubt! It’s important to know how to let loose and have fun, for one. Secondly, it builds confidence. I remember feeling really shy to dance in front of others as a child, but once I just did it, I stopped caring. Lastly, it’s an enjoyable form of exercise and builds certain skills, like flexibility, posture, etc.

31. Haircut

32. Voice

33. Jeans

33.1. Do you like wearing jeans?

34. Concentration

PART II & III

1/ 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 to boost 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 accept 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 behavior 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)!
 

2/ 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.
 

3/ 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.

4/ 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 paddle boarding. 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 intercoastal 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 paddle board 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 paddle boarding 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.
 

5/ Describe a person who has interesting ideas or opinions.

You should say:
Who the person is
How you know the person
What the 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 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.
 

6/ 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.

7/ 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 yon like the person

I would like to talk about one of my favorite 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 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 sticks 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.
 

8/ 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 for 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 of making 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 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 it, 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 eaten cold. Stil, 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 less 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.
 

9/ Describe 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.

QUESTIONS FOR 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 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.

Will 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 completing it in time, the chances are that you will feel completely fatigued and lose your appetite the next working day. This is simply because a 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
 

10/ Describe a practical skill you learnt.

You should say:
what the skill was;
who you learnt it from;
how you learnt 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 their 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.
 

11/ 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 for 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 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).
 

12/ 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 yon felt about it

Well, wrong information creates many difficulties in our lives. Sometimes we have to face danger due 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 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 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’s 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 newspapers like BBC, the New York Times and other verified news agencies. The second method is that people can ask for advice of 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 from, such as newsfeeds on social networking websites like Facebook, or informative contents from other electronic news platforms.
 

13/ 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.
 

14/ 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.
 

15/ 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) in 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!
 

16/ 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 in 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 year olds.
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.
 

17/ 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.

QUESTIONS FOR PART 3

Why do yon 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 loudly 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 off 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.
 

18/ 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 have 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!
 

19/ 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 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 breath-taking. 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 the 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.
 

20/ 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 the 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.
 

21/ 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 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 (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 extra curricular 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 it 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 into 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 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.
 

22/ 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.
 

23/ 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

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 tables. 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.
 

24/ 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 the 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!
 

25/ 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).
 

26/ 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.
 

27/ 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

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.
 

28/ 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.
 

29/ 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 the 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 your 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 work out 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 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.
 

30/ 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 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 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 the old school (traditional) way.
 

31/ Describe an unusual experience of traveling/ Describe a place you visited with your friends and you had a good time.

You should say:
Where you went
When you went there
Who you were with
What you did there
And explain why it is unusual

QUESTIONS FOR 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 travelling 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 you 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 travelling?

Clearly, there are a number of merits brought by travelling. 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 chances to sample, the local life, enjoy the and learn many 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 to somewhere can help us recharge our batteries and work more effectively afterwards.

What are the advantages for a 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, travelling 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 he foreigners travelling 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 jam, particularly during peak hours; or run the risk of being stolen in public places like buses. Besides, polluted air and hot weather is another tumbling 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
 

32/ 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 seeing 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 (honor)!

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 honor 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 the 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 labor.
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.
 

33/ 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 of the area. I would have to say that is 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 ant 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 to 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 90’s and 2000’s 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 roadtrips 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 shop 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.
 

34/ 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 star 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 is 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. 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 travelling changed, compared to several decades ago?

Well, several decades ago, travelling 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 tickets 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 layout their days at 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 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.
 

35/ 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 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, me and my friends really enjoyed it. It’s important for kids to learn how to share.
 

36/ 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 an 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 a 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 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 country side, 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.
 

37/ 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

38/ Describe a teenager you know

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.
 

39/ Describe a time the vehicle you were travelling 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.

40/ 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

41/ 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.

42/ Describe a piece of advice you received on your subjects or work

43/ 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.

Part 3

What influence does the internet have on people (individually), and the 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 your 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 work out 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 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.
 

44/ 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!
 

45/ Describe a time that you visited a friend

46/ 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 effect) me. Now that you now 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 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.
 

47/ 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 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 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.
 

48/ 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

49/ 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

50/ 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