2023 年第三季度口语机经库

9-12 月
  Topic Pool——Part One（2023.09-12）

Study/Work Hometown Accommodation The area you live in Fishing

Geography Cinema Coffee or tea Musical instruments Robots
Noise Running Chatting Helping others Maps
Clothes Gifts Transport Riding bikes Ice cream
Concentration Fixing things Friends Rainy days Bags
Ambition and
Teachers Wild animals Languages Day off
dream
Keeping Favourite The city you live
healthy day in

 注：红色为必备话题；蓝色为本季新题；黑色为保留旧题。

Study
1. Do you work or are you a student?
I’m a student at Tsinghua University in Beijing.
I’m a student, and I’m a freshman in Tsinghua University.
I’m a student, a high school student.

2. What subject are you studying?

I'm studying for a Master's degree in Tsinghua University, specializing in the field of
Math Studies.

3. Why did you choose that subject?

I chose math because I liked it in high school. I was always strong in math and
science, so it seemed like a natural progression. Also, I did some research on career
opportunities, and it seemed to be a subject with a promising future.

4. What would you like to do in the future?

I would love to be a teacher. Most of the women in my family are teachers, they have
a huge impact on my life. I think it is wonderful to get to change people’s lives by
what I say or do on the stage. It requires a person to be responsible and caring, and I
want to be such a person.

5. What are the most popular subjects in China?

It’s hard to say nowadays. You know, due to the globalization, our country is much
more developed than ever. Every subject has something to offer to the society.
Students just choose their subjects based on what they are interested in, which then, in
turn, can become a trend.
1 / 116
6. Do you think it’s important to choose a subject you like?
Definitely! I think interest is the best motivator, if I choose something I’m keen on, I
will be willing to sacrifice my leisure time because it is a worthwhile sacrifice to me.
In addition, when I face some difficulties, I will do my best to overcome the problems.
Quitting in the middle will never be an option. We should consider carefully our
choice from the start, rather than carelessly choosing the wrong path, then regretting
it.

7. Are you looking forward to working?

I have been wanting to work full time, that’s for sure. I can now imagine myself
waking up early in the morning, getting my business attire on and sitting behind my
office desk. I wonder how it feels to work with other professionals and with the boss
always around… It could be stressful but interesting, I guess. The best part I would
say would be to finally receive a salary and spend my own money. I would not have to
bother my parents then. But, like most things in life, it really depends on what the job
is and whether the environment is positive or not.

8. Do you like your subject? (Why? / Why not?)

Honestly, I don’t. I am halfway through my college career. But reality struck me when
the material we learned in class was much more difficult and the assignments weren’t
fun. I’m thinking about changing my own major now.

9. Do you prefer to study in the mornings or in the afternoons?

I am not a morning person, I’m afraid. But to be honest, studying in the afternoon is
even worse. I get really sleepy from one to four in the afternoon. So, actually, my
brain is at its best in the evening. It works better then. I can stay sharp even until very
late at night.

10. Is your subject interesting to you?

Absolutely. I find computer science really stimulating. Imagine creating something
useful just using codes and numbers. It requires a good level of imagination and quite
a good level of number skills, critical thinking and logic skills as well as a keen ability
to solve problems.

11. Is there any kind of technology you can use in study?

For studying I use a computer and my phone. I often download research papers and
read them on my phone and make notes onto the notes section of my phone too. I use
my computer to actually write essays and do other homework tasks.

12. What kind of learning method helps you?

Well.. I am not so familiar with different learning methods, but off the top of my head,
I’d say that collaborative project work in groups with classmates is something that I
really benefit from – more so than sitting at individual desks reciting stuff, anyway.

2 / 116
13. How many hours a week do you study for?
I probably study alone, after university, for maybe around 15 hours a week, but it
depends on the time of year. Closer to exams, I study more, during the summer, I
study a lot less!

14. Is there any difference between the study life of you and your parents?
Well, I’m not entirely sure about what my parents’ study life was like when they were
in school, but I think it was a lot more traditional – they didn’t have multimedia (like
computers, or videos) in the classrooms, and they certainly had a stricter learning
environment.

Work
1. What work do you do?
I am a teacher at a high school. I started working there in Jan 2015 after graduating
from college. I would say it is a pretty challenging job.

2. Why did you choose to do that type of job?

Teaching is my passion. I don’t view my career as a “job” per say. I see it more as my
calling in life. It is my life’s purpose.

3. Do you like your job?

Definitely! I enjoy the variety and special projects where I can take ownership of the
final product. My job provides me with both, so yes, it is a good job and I find it very
rewarding.

I’m not interested in my job… because it is so mundane and repetitive, two traits I
despise and try to stay away from. I hope to find a better job that challenges me to
aspire to new heights.

4. Do you miss being a student?

I definitely do! Sometimes I just wonder what would have happened if I had studied
harder when I was in university. I just miss the days when I had nothing to worry
about but the exams. Now, all the pressure from work and family is difficult to deal
with.

5. Is it very interesting?
Most of the time, yes! The daily challenges from new projects provide constant
opportunities to learn new things and to some extent re-invent myself. Every day is
unique. My colleagues provide me with support but also healthy competition. I find
my job most interesting when I am challenged to reach outside of my comfort zone.

6. Is there any kind of technology you use at work?

I use mainly a laptop computer and my phone at work. Sometimes I also use a

3 / 116
photocopier scanner, and a video camera if I’m making short promotional videos with
my company. But mainly, I just use a computer.

7. Can you manage your time well when you work?

Yes, I am a project manager in my office, so I am quite good at managing my time
and the other people's time on the team. I've worked as an IT manager for several
years now.

8. Who helps you most at work?

My team members – I have a great team and they are all hardworking, supportive,
smart and attentive to the needs of others and the project goals.

9. How many hours a week do you work for?

I work for about 40 hours a week – at least that is what my contract stipulates, but in
reality I would say that I work almost 60 hours a week because I do a lot of extra stuff
for my team, and end up taking on more projects outside of my normal scope of work
– pretty often, actually.

Hometown
1. Has your hometown changed much these years?
Absolutely! Take traffic as an example, the most common transport facility used to be
buses, it could be really crowded sometimes since people didn’t have any other
options. However, today, BRT and subway systems have made people’s lives easier
than ever.

2. Is that a big city or a small place?

This city is so huge. I often get lost here. Like the other day, I travelled to a new
neighborhood that had this restaurant people were raving about. I made a wrong turn
and it took me 20 minutes to figure out where I was.

3. How long have you been living here?

For about half my life, so that is about 10 years. I went to school here, and now I’m
working in the same city. In fact, time has gone by really quickly because so there’s
so much to do here and I’ve been so active.

4. For you, what benefits are there living in a big city?

Well, first of all, there are a great number of opportunities for both education and
job-hunting in big cities, which explains why people from small cities, towns and
villages are flooding to big cities nowadays. Plus, the fact that cities offer more
modern facilities and conveniences makes them even more attractive to people.

5. Is there anything you dislike about it?

Unfortunately, this city has a huge problem with pollution, especially air pollution.
The air is so contaminated that we all have to wear masks every time we go out of the

4 / 116
house. This problem has escalated to a serious level that it’s been catching the
attention of the international community. I hope that the government will be able to
save this city before the problem gets worse.

6. What do you like most about your hometown?

What I love the most about it is the mystery. I mean there are so many places inside
this city that I have yet to explore. I could spend years checking out every restaurant
and attraction Beijing has to offer.

7. Where in your country do you live?

I live in Beijing. However, since the city is so big, it would take hours to even scratch
the surface, but to sum it up, Beijing is the political and cultural heart, and one of the
major economic centers of the world today.

Accommodation
1. Are the transport facilities in your city very good?
Honestly, I wish they were better. I have to walk 20 minutes to the bus stop, and the
subway takes another 30 minutes when I get to work. My dream home is a house
located right next to a bus stop or subway terminal.

2. Which room does your family spend most of the time in?
My family loves to stay in the living room as this is the only place in the flat where
we can do a lot of things together. We play board games, watch films and TV
programs. We play cards sometimes and we spend time working on huge puzzles
together.

3. Do you live in a house or a flat?

I live in a flat, and my flat is situated in a quiet little neighborhood on the north side of
city. My parents first moved there in 2000 when they wanted to start a new life and
raise a family.

4. Do you plan to live here for a long time?

Not really! I want to blaze my own trail and live in a place that forces me to reach out
and meet new people. I was thinking about moving to Shanghai for a few days to gain
a bit more cultural experience of the world.

5. Do you live alone or with your family?

I’m a student at the moment, and I live with my parents. Actually I quite like it,
because my mother is the best cook that I know - it’s always wonderful to have a tasty
meal after a day of school work. We also talk about our days with each other while
we’re enjoying dinner, it just feels good.

6. How long have you lived there?

I’ve lived there for three years and I really love my place. Since it’s on the 11th floor,

5 / 116
it’s well ventilated and there is plenty of sunshine. I love to sink into the soft sofa to
watch TV and eat snacks. There’s a large shopping centre within 5 minutes’ walk so
it’s very convenient for me to go shopping, watch movies and eat out. I wish it was
my apartment.

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

At weekends, I spend most of my time studying and sleeping in my room. On
weekdays, I spend time in the kitchen, baking some cakes or sweet stuff for my
mother. Sometimes, we watch films in the living room. On Sundays, we usually clean
the house and do some laundry.

8. Which is your favourite room in your home?

I think it must be my bedroom. My bedroom is not that big but quite neat. There are
some posters of Kobe Bryant on the wall because he is my favorite basketball player.
My room is kind of a private space for me - I usually play some video games, do my
homework and play the guitar in it.

9. What's the difference between where you are living now and where you lived in
the past? (If you want to say you have not lived elsewhere)
I have not moved home at all. I have lived in the same flat since I was born. I love our
small place. I have a lot of good memories here, and I treasure them. I’d happily stay
here for many more years?

10. What can you see when you look out the window of your room?
I can see the whole community from my window. In the morning, people are going to
school or work, everyone is in a hurry. However, in the evening, it is not that
fast-paced anymore. I can see parents taking a walk after dinner and children playing
games in the neighborhood.

11. Would you be willing to live in the countryside in the future?

In the future, probably. There is a peacefulness I enjoy when visiting the countryside.
People there are friendly and always willing to start a conversation. I think when I
retire, living in the countryside is a nice option to me.

The area you live in

1. Do you like the area that you live in now?
Yes, I like the area where I live. Since I have lived there for a long time it makes me
feel comfortable. There is a saying: “Home is where the heart is”. My family lives
there and we enjoy each other’s company so my heart is there. I like the phrase from
one old movie: “There’s no place like home.”

2. Do you think the area you live in now is suitable for people of all ages?
Yes, most certainly. I think that I am very lucky to be living in a very central area of
my city, close to great public transport facilities, and quite a few entertainment and

6 / 116
leisure options too. There are a few malls nearby, with fantastic restaurants in, lots of
shops, a gym, which I go to every day almost, a swimming centre which I attend with
my family on weekends, and there’s quite a few nice parks within a short walking
distance too. So, yeah, it’s a great area. In addition, the community I live in has a nice
garden too.

3. Are people in your area friendly?

I wouldn’t say people in my area are especially friendly, or unfriendly, really. They are alright,
I suppose. I thought they were relatively friendly, before I went to Spain on holiday and found
how friendly and happy people seemed to be in service interactions, in the streets, on public
transport, and so on, there in Spain. When I came back to my city and my area, I started to
think that people were a bit rude, grumpy and not so helpful when you need them to be. So, I
have a sort of neutral stance on this – I guess it depends on what you compare my area, my
city or my culture with, as to whether you assess that the people are friendly or not.

4. How has your area changed in recent years?

Some positives changes are that the pollution is getting better. It was a lot worse a few
years ago. Recently, the government has made some changes to the factories nearby
you see. This has had a positive effect on the air quality. Some negative changes are:
first, there are too many public bikes such as OFO and Mobike. They clog the
sidewalks and there isn’t enough room for pedestrians to walk sometimes. Secondly,
there are not enough taxis. It is very difficult to get a taxi if you are in a hurry or it is
raining.

5. Do you know any famous people in your area?

In my district of my city, I don’t know any famous people. I think famous people tend
to live away from the crowds in China, in places where they will be left alone and not
bothered by people or the press.

6. Where do you like to go in your area?

I like to go shopping and hang out with my friends. When the weather is nice, I like to
go to the park and enjoy the nature. It makes me feel refreshed. When my friends go
with me it is even better.

Fishing
1. Do you like eating fish?
I love eating fish, although I don't like dealing with fish bones. I like simple white fish
or salmon, served with a light sauce. Fish is apparently very good for you and have a
number of essential oils in it. I actually prefer sea and river fish than other types of
seafood like crabs or lobsters.

2. Is fishing popular in your country?

Fishing is indeed quite popular in my country. It's a recreational activity enjoyed by
many, especially in coastal regions and near lakes or rivers. Many families have a
tradition of going fishing together on weekends.

7 / 116
3. Have you ever been to a place where there are lots of fish around you?
Absolutely, I've had the chance to visit some picturesque lakeside locations where fish
abound. It's a serene experience, connecting with nature. The sparkling water and the
gentle sound of the waves make it a perfect getaway.

4. Have you seen any movies featuring lots of fish?

Yes, I've seen several movies featuring underwater worlds teeming with fish. These
documentaries often reveal the astonishing diversity of marine life, which can be both
mesmerizing and educational. So, I suppose a documentary is like a movie really….
oh oh, I have actually seen Finding Nemo, which is an animation, a really funny one,
featuring a lot of fish and sea creatures.

5. Why do some people like fishing?

Fishing is a calming sport…well, it's a hobby really for most people. I often see
people from spring onwards, fishing on the landmark river in Beijing. Usually it's men
who enjoy fishing. They sit underneath the willow trees on little chairs, with long
fishing rods, and seem to sit there all day hoping to get a bite from a fish. Often I
think they do it just as a form of relaxation, more than the desire to actually catch lots
of fish. There's a number of ancient Chinese stories, one by the philosopher, Zhuang
Zi, where he talks about the calming benefits of fishing.

6. Where can you see fish?

There are lots of places to see fish in my city. Firstly we have some really nice parks.
It's quite common in Chinese parks to have ponds and lakes with goldfish and carp in
them, so if we go to the park on the weekend it's very likely we will sit by the ponds
and look at the fish. Apart from that there are quite a few people who keep fish in
aquariums in their homes. Goldish or even sometimes tropical fish.

Geography
1. Have you ever studied geography at school?
I did study geography, yes. Physical geography, like plate tectonics – volcanoes and
things like that, as well as land formation, and farming and the water cycle, and all of
that type of stuff. We also studied human geography as well – population,
demographics and things like that.

2. Do you like geography?

I do, actually. I find it quite interesting – especially physical geography. I’m interested
in things related to the natural environment and the planet. And I am concerned about
climate change and environmental issues facing us today, so I find geography relevant
as well as interesting.

3. Do you want to travel to a country because of its geographical conditions?

Yes, I think so. At least it is one of the reasons I would choose to travel to a country,

8 / 116
yes. For example, I am interested in lakes – I would like to spend some time in
Sweden at the lakes – I heard they have a lot of lakes and it’s common to spend
holidays at the lakes, go in boats and things like that. So, yes, I would choose a
country with lots of lakes and water.

4. Do you want to be a geography teacher?

Well, I can’t say I’ve ever really thought about it, but no, I don’t want to be a
geography teacher. In fact, I don’t want to be a teacher at all – I don’t like having to
present or explain things to groups of people, and I don’t enjoy the prospect of
disciplining children or teenagers as a central part of my job!

5. Do you think geography is useful?

Absolutely, geography is incredibly useful. It helps us understand the world around us,
from the physical features of the Earth to the cultural and environmental factors that
shape our lives. Whether it's planning a trip, making informed decisions about the
environment, or even studying history, geography plays a crucial role in our lives.

Cinema
1. Did you often go to the cinema when you were a child?
I didn’t really no. I went occasionally with my sister, but not very often to be honest.

2. Do you often go to the cinema with your friends?

Nowadays I go to the cinema about once a month – there’s a new cinema complex
right near my home in a mall. It’s a fantastic cinema and they have all the latest
movies.

3. Do you still like the same kind of movie which you liked when you were a child?
Pretty much. I’ve always liked fun, romantic and lighthearted films. I still enjoy a lot
of animations and cartoons too.

4. What genres of films do you like?

I have a diverse taste in films; I enjoy genres like action, drama, and science fiction. If
I was to say which I really preferred, though, I would probably say action movies that
are based around spy stories, secret agent thrillers and things like this – I prefer this
genre than the superhero genre, most of the time. I find these films truly gripping.

5. Do you think going to the cinema is a good way to spend time with friends?
Going to the cinema is an excellent way to spend quality time with friends, discussing
the movie afterward enhances the experience, especially if you go for a meal and a
few drinks and have time and the mood to chat about it. But this is only really fun if
it’s a good film that you all enjoy.

Coffee or tea
1. Do you like to drink coffee or tea?

9 / 116
I prefer having a cup of Americano in the morning, which is strong enough to give me
a kick start. As an addict myself, I know a quick fix when I’m tired or not in a good
mood, and this is a good cup of Joe.

2. How often do drink coffee or tea?

Well, I usually have one or two cups every day. A cup of cappuccino is always part of
my morning routine, which really works to pick me up. If I feel sleepy or need some
energy for work, I also drink coffee in the afternoon.

3. Do Chinese people like to drink coffee or tea?

As I’m sure you know, traditionally, tea is the number one drink in China, actually we
are quite famous for our tea drinking, so I’d have to say tea rather than coffee, but
more recently coffee is becoming increasingly popular especially with young people,
overall though it’s not quite as popular as tea yet.

4. Do you prefer to use tea or coffee to serve your guests?

I typically offer my guests a choice between tea and coffee, but this is perhaps
because I’m a younger and more international person, let’s say. Older people, or more
traditional Chinese people might just offer a guest tea or juice, as coffee has only
really been a popular drink in recent years – perhaps it’s now even a bit fashionable.
So, generally, I do offer tea or coffee, but most people would offer tea or juice.

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

I had a cup of coffee before coming to this exam today, I like a cup of coffee once or
twice a day just to perk me up, you know to give me some energy, I don’t drink that
much tea though, I’m not really much of a tea drinker to be honest, I’m more of a
coffee person.

Musical instruments
1. Do you know how to play a musical instrument?
Yes, I can play the piano. I started learning it when I was a child, and I still play it
occasionally for relaxation. I wouldn’t say I was particularly good at the piano, but I
do enjoy playing from time to time. Come to think of it, I really should get back into it
properly and try to improve.

2. Do you think students should learn to play musical instruments at school?

Absolutely, learning musical instruments at school is very beneficial. It nurtures
creativity and discipline in students and can also be a lifelong skill. I think that
creative arts, performance arts and music are quite important for children and adults,
alike, and can really foster an innovative mindset and a sensitive soul.

3. Have you taken any classes on musical instruments in school?

Yes, I received piano lessons in school, which helped me develop my musical abilities.
I also started to learn an instrument called the pi pa, but I was very bad at it, and to be

10 / 116
honest, I’ve never really liked that instrument, but I did have a few lessons in school.

4. Which musical instrument do you like?

Among musical instruments, I have a special affinity for the violin due to its melodic
and expressive qualities. I actually have never really played it, or had lessons, but I
love listening to violin music, and cello music, come to think of it, and I find baroque
music like J.S. Bach, deeply moving and inspirational.

5. How easy would it be to learn to play a musical instrument without a teacher?

Learning a musical instrument without a teacher can be challenging, but with online
resources and dedication, progress can certainly be made, though it really requires a
certain persistence and passion to learn properly from online lessons and videos. I,
personally, would prefer a real teacher.

Robots
1. How do robots affect our lives?
Robots have revolutionized our lives, from automating manufacturing processes to
aiding in daily tasks, making life more convenient. By robots, I mean automated
technology really. Intelligent technology is constantly evolving and the impact it will
have on our lives will become more significant in the years to come, I’m sure.

2. Are you interested in robots?

I'm genuinely intrigued by robots, particularly their role in fields like healthcare and
space exploration, but I guess it’s also interesting to see how they will affect our daily
lives with the new developments in AI computing and machine learning – these things
are now having quite an impact on society – I find this fascinating.

3. Did you like any films about robots when you were a child?
During my childhood, I enjoyed movies like "Wall-E" and "Transformers" that
featured robots as central characters. In fact, there’s now a lot of blockbuster movies
which feature intelligent machines, like Iron Man, come to think of it – and I like
them all!

4. Do you use robots in daily life?

Yes, I suppose I do. I mean, I use apps on my phone to control the smart lights in my
bedroom, and I sometimes use my mother’s robot vacuum cleaner, which goes around
the room by itself and can identify corners and knows when to turn around and so on
– so, yes, I suppose I do use robots in daily life in one way or another.

5. Will you feel comfortable if you are on a car driven by a robot?

While I appreciate the potential for safer transportation with robot-driven cars, there
might still be some initial apprehension – I mean, I think I’d be pretty scared being in
a car controlled 100% by a robot or computer – especially if you saw the crazy traffic
in my city, you’d be concerned and a bit skeptical too, I guess!

11 / 116
Noise
1. Do you like to stay in a noisy place?
Personally, I prefer quieter environments. I find it easier to concentrate and relax
when there's less noise around. Noise pollution, in my opinion, can be quite stressful.
So, if I want to study or relax and read, I much prefer quieter places.

2. Are there any quiet places in your city?

Fortunately, my city has a few tranquil spots, like parks and nature reserves, where
you can escape the hustle and bustle. These places offer a peaceful retreat from the
daily grind.

3. Do people have the right to make noise?

People should have the right to enjoy themselves, but it's important to strike a balance.
Excessive noise can disrupt others and lead to conflicts. Respecting noise ordinances
is essential for harmonious living.

4. Do you like loud music?

While I appreciate music, I prefer it at a moderate volume. Loud music can be
enjoyable at times, but not when it disturbs others or causes discomfort. Finding the
right volume for the situation ensures everyone can enjoy the music without any
unnecessary disruptions.

Running
1. Do you like running?
I am not really very keen on running to be honest. I'm not into sports at all. I guess I
like walking… I really enjoy walking actually, although it's not really a sport as such.
But running I just find tiring and boring. Especially running in a gym.

2. Where do you run?

Well, like I said, I don't run. Ever. But my friends go running quite often. In fact they
are really into fitness and sports, so they go running several times a week when the air
quality is good. They go running in the local park, I think, or on campus. Our campus
is really big so you often see students running there.

3. Which places do you think are perfect for running?

Large university campuses in China are ideal for running. Some parks are good for
running, and of course there are leisure centers and sports areas in the city that are
ideal for running. Some people do cross country running, and outside of Beijing there
are lots of cool places in the hills where people can do that.

4. Do you think running is a good way to stay healthy?

Yes, most certainly. It's a great form of exercise and it keeps people healthy in terms
of muscle-strength and cardio-vascular exercise. It's a shame I really don't like

12 / 116
running, because I'm very aware that it has lots of health benefits.

Chatting
1. Do you often chat with friends?
Yes, I engage in conversations with friends regularly, using both online messaging
platforms and face-to-face interactions – I’m a pretty social person so I enjoy chatting
about life and exchanging ideas with friends and also listening to their problems when
they feel down.

2. Do you prefer to chat online or face to face?

My preference for chatting—whether online or in person—depends on the context
and convenience. In an ideal world I prefer face to face communication – I enjoy
hanging out with friends in coffee shops, over meals in a restaurant, or in bars. So, yes,
I’d say I prefer face to face communication if there is the time and opportunity.

3. Do you prefer group chats or individual chats?

For individual discussions, I prefer one-on-one conversations, while group chats are
more suitable for organizing events and gatherings. As I said, I’m pretty social, so I do
enjoy both, but I think I lean more towards one-on-one chats. I like to listen and feel
that people are more genuine when not in groups.

4. What will you do if you have disagreement with others?

In disagreements, I aim for a constructive dialogue, seeking compromises and
common ground to resolve issues amicably. Last week I had a disagreement with a
friend, and I ended up not saying much in the end, and waited a day or two until she
felt calmer, and then we talked again and the issue was easier to resolve. Patience and
acceptance of diverse opinions is key to conflict resolution, I find.

Helping others
1. Do you usually help people around you?
Yes, helping those around me is something I really value. Small acts of kindness can
make a big difference. I think that people today are sometimes a bit mean when it
comes to helping others, especially helping strangers in need. I like to set a good
example and help anyone who needs help.

2. How do you help people around you?

I provide assistance to people by running errands, offering emotional support, or
volunteering when possible. I also help strangers or people in the street who ask for
help, or look like they need a helping hand.

3. Do your parents teach you how to help others?

My parents have instilled the value of helping others in me since childhood, but also I
learned about the importance of helping others in school, as well. I know that not
everyone has this kind of education at home as well as school, so I appreciate my

13 / 116
having had this kind of encouragement to help others from my parents as well as
teachers.

4. What have you done to help the elderly?

To support the elderly, I've volunteered in the admin at a local nursing home, spending
time with and assisting the residents, too – that was last summer as part of a
community volunteer initiative. I also quite regularly help an old lady who lives
nearby – you know, I help her with shopping and some chores from time to time.

Maps
1. How often do you use maps on your phone?
I use maps on my phone quite frequently, especially when I'm traveling to unfamiliar
places. While I consider myself decent at using maps, technology has made
navigation much more accessible. I don't have physical maps at home, but I do have
digital maps readily available on my devices.

2. Are you good at using maps?

I'm reasonably proficient at using maps, especially digital ones on my phone.
However, I do occasionally make wrong turns or get momentarily lost, which can be a
bit frustrating.

3. Are there any maps in your home?

I don't keep physical maps in my home, as digital maps are more convenient and
up-to-date. However, I do have a collection of maps from places I've visited as
souvenirs, neatly stored away as mementos of my travels.

Clothes
1. How much time do you spend in choosing clothes every day?
I usually spend about 10 to 15 minutes in the morning choosing my outfit for the day.
I like to pick something comfortable and suitable for the weather, ensuring that it also
matches the day's activities.

2. Do you prefer casual clothes or smart clothes?

It really depends on the occasion. For work or special events, I prefer smart clothes
like suits or dresses. But for everyday wear, I'm more comfortable in casual clothes
like jeans and T-shirts. It's all about striking the right balance between style and
comfort.

3. Did you choose your own clothes when you were young?
Yes, I did choose my own clothes when I was perhaps an early teenager, especially as
I got older. My parents encouraged me to develop my own style and make decisions
about what I wanted to wear. This helped me become more independent and
fashion-savvy.

14 / 116
Gifts
1. What kinds of gifts do you usually like receiving?
I appreciate a wide range of gifts, but I particularly enjoy receiving books, as I'm an
avid reader. Also, thoughtful, handmade gifts hold a special place in my heart.

2. Are you good at choosing gifts?

I'd like to think I'm pretty good at choosing gifts for others. I always try to consider
the person's interests, hobbies, and preferences to find something really meaningful.

3. Have you ever given a person a gift you made yourself?

Yes, I have. I find that homemade gifts often have a unique personal touch and can
convey deeper emotions. I once gave my grandmother a card, which I made myself,
with a watercolour painting on it, which I painted myself. She cherished it for years.

4. What do you consider when choosing a gift?

When choosing a gift, I consider the recipient's tastes, interests, and my relationship
to them and the message I want to send in giving the gift. I believe a good gift is one
that shows you've put thought into it.

Transport
1. How do you go to work/school?
I typically use public transportation to get to work. It's convenient and gives me some
extra time to read or relax during the commute. However, on occasions my father
takes me to work in his car if he happens to be going to same way, or if I’m late and in
a rush. It takes a slightly shorter time by car if the traffic isn’t too bad.

2. Is driving to work popular in your country?

It’s hard to say because most people I know take public transport to get to work -
mainly the subway, sometimes a taxi. It used to be very popular to drive to work, or at
least it used to be something that people aspired towards, but now the traffic situation
in my city has become so bad, and in most major cities in my country, that I think it’s
becoming less cool to drive to work because of the hassle of parking, the traffic –
things like this – although private cars and driving to work are still regarded as the
most comfortable means of getting to work, I would not say they were the most
popular.

3. Do you think people will drive more in the future?

I believe that with advancements in technology and the increasing focus on electric
and autonomous vehicles, people might drive less in future. Public transportation and
alternative modes of commuting might become more prevalent, leading to reduced
traffic congestion and a more sustainable way of traveling.

Riding bikes
1. Did you ride a bike when you were young?

15 / 116
Yes, I used to ride a bike a lot when I was young. It was my primary mode of
transportation during my school days. My father bought me a small bike when I was
about 10 years old, and I rode it every single day – I loved it.

2. Did/Do you go to school by bike?

Absolutely! I rode my bike to school for many years. It was a convenient and
eco-friendly way to commute.

3. Will you choose to ride a bike if you go out these days?

Nowadays, I still prefer riding a bike for short trips around the neighborhood or when
I want to get some fresh air and exercise. It's a healthy and eco-conscious choice. And
now there are quite a few hire-bikes in my city, that you can scan with an app, and
effectively ‘borrow’ the bike and drop it off at your destination for somebody else to
use.

Ice cream
1. Do you like eating ice cream?
I do. I love eating ice cream. Recently, in my city, there are quite a few places that
specialize in ice cream, offering all sorts of different and interesting flavours, from
pistachio, to mango, to green tea, to raspberry chocolate flavour – loads of different
types!

2. Did you eat ice cream when you were a child?

I didn’t really eat so much ice cream as a child, because there wasn’t really any ice
cream available in my town. There were types of ice lollies on sticks that you could
buy in freezers in shops, but there wasn’t really any real ice cream.

3. Are there any shops selling ice cream near the place where you live?
I now live in quite a bit city, and there are quite a few shops in the local mall that sell
ice cream – one is an authentic Italian ice cream shop, which has a host of different
flavours on sale.

4. Can you make ice cream by yourself?

I have no idea how to make ice cream! I believe you have to have a special machine,
and I’m not totally sure what ingredients you need to make it. Possibly cream or milk,
and chopped fruits…I’m not sure to be honest.

Concentration
1. Could you stay focused in class when you were a child?
I was pretty good at staying focused, yes. I’ve always been a person with a calm
demeanour who pays attention to things and has the ability to sit and concentrate for
quite a long time without too much trouble.

2. What do you do to help you concentrate?

16 / 116
I put on noise-cancelling headphones - you know, those kind of headphones that play
music but do not allow other external sounds to enter your ears! I put on light
classical music, and I make sure I shut the door and I tell my friends and family that I
need to study in peace.

3. Is it difficult for you to stay focused on something?

Yes, I've got a poor concentration span. Well, a lot of the time, anyway. There are
times when I can focus really well - when I've had a good night's sleep, or when I am
feeling calm and confident. But if I am stressed or nervous, I find it hard to
concentrate on things and I am easily distracted.

4. When do you need to be focused?

Usually I need to concentrate and be focused when I am doing homework. Some
people can study when there is a lot of noise around them, but I can't, I have to be in
complete silence. I must be in a place where there is no music, no household noise, no
people talking… total silence. Maybe I am not good at concentrating and I get
distracted too easily… but that's just the way I am. It's my personality.

Fixing things
1. Can you fix things?
I’m pretty good at fixing and repairing things, but really it depends what type of
things. Nowadays so much is digital. I am not sure how to fix things that might go
wrong – like my phone, or computer or so. But I used to be good at fixing my bicycle!

2. What kinds of things can you fix?

Mechanical things mainly – things like my bike… emmm… I’m also pretty good at
fixing things around the home that might go wrong, like pictures or a wobbly chair leg.
Basic things like that.

3. Have you ever asked people to teach you how to fix things?
Not that I can remember… let me think… I think once I asked my grandmother to
help me repair a hole in a pair of jeans I had. You know, she had a sewing kit – needle
and thread etc. So, yeah, she taught me how to sew, come to think of it. I can sew
quite well. You know, holes in my socks and things like that!

4. Do you think fixing things is a necessary skill?

Nowadays I don’t think it’s that essential really. People don’t really fix things often.
We live in quite a throw-away society these days, which is quite wasteful, really.
People don’t repair things when they go wrong. Also, many things need experts to
repair them and are not easy for everyday folk like me to fix.

Friends
1. How important are friends to you?
I believe friends are quite important to me. I don’t need to have a very active social

17 / 116
life, or lots of friends, but I do feel I need to have a few good friends that I really feel
I can rely on and trust.

2. Where do you often meet?

I often get together with friends in a restaurant, sometimes in a bar or KTV.
Occasionally we go for walks in the park when the weather is nice, or go shopping in
the local malls and grab a milk tea or coffee in a coffee shop.

3. What do you usually do with your friends?

I usually hang around in cafes, go shopping a little bit, try new restaurants and bars,
and occasionally play sports. Things like this. At times I go to the cinema with a
friend, or maybe for a long walk in spring or summer.

4. Do you have many friends?

I have lots of friends. I think that, talking of “real friends” I have mainly 3 or 4. But I
have lots of other friends… you'd maybe call them acquaintances. So, yes, I'd say I
have many friends – I'm a really social person. But I am also very aware that we can
only have a few genuinely close friends in life – people that we really click with, who
also will support us through thick and thin.

Rainy days
1. Do you like rainy days?
Not particularly, no. I don’t like having to think about wearing a coat or finding an
umbrella. Also, the streets get a bit mucky when it’s raining and I don’t like that.

2. Does it rain much in your city?

Not very often, no. It rains mainly in summer – and when it rains it rains really hard.
But for most of the year it’s pretty dry – in fact, probably too dry really.

3. Would you like to live in a dry or wet place?

I’d prefer to live in a place which has fairly normal seasons and has enough rain to be
good for the fields and the crops and the plants, but not too much that it’s annoying. I
spent a holiday in Ireland once, and it rained every day almost – I don’t like that at all.

4. Have you cancel any plans because of rain?

Yes, quite a few times. You see, I do a few outdoor sports, like basketball on an
outdoor court at my university campus. So, if it rains, we have to cancel. It’s so
annoying.

Bags
1. Do you usually carry a bag?
Yes, I carry a bag almost always. A simple bag really, in which I put my wallet, my
bank cards, stuff like this – my phone…tissues… random daily things.

18 / 116
2. What kinds of bags do you use when travelling?
I use a suitcase mainly – if I’m going on a normal travel, you know, a holiday or
something, or back to see my family at Spring festival. I take a large suitcase that I
bought in a store in Beijing. And a handbag, and sometimes a backpack too.

3. Do you often change bags?

No, not really. I’m not someone who buys new bags and accessories very often. I
usually buy a couple of good quality bags, a decent enough suitcase, and a backpack
and they last years.

4. Did you use a backpack when you were a child?

Yes, definitely. To go to school. For my school books, my PE kit – you know, my
sports clothes and things. I used a backpack for most of my school life, actually.

5. Would you give others bags as gifts?

Yes, I think so. Bags are quite common gifts – especially purses and handbags for
girls and women. Designer bags are very popular in China today, too. So, wealthy
people will often buy bags for their family or friends as luxury gifts.

Teachers
1. Do you remember your teachers from primary school?
Yes, I remember most of them quite well. I remember the ones I really liked, and I
also remember the ones I really disliked! The motivating, humorous and inspiring
teachers, as well as the strict, serious and critical teachers!

2. Do you have a favorite teacher?

Yes, it was my mathematics teacher. She was really good at making the subject
interesting and she always gave real-life examples, and not just boring repetition drills,
so I found I remembered what we learned in class much easier.

3. Did you want to be a teacher when you were young?

I didn’t really, no. I didn’t really think about it, actually. I always had aspirations to go
into business or the medical field. I was not really interested in teaching, and neither
did I like the idea of dealing with classrooms full of children.

4. What kinds of teacher do you prefer?

I prefer teachers that seem to be very sincere and ‘human’ – you know, the kinds of
teachers that make a subject really seem inspiring and worth learning about. A good
teacher, who has a sense of humour and the ability to inspire interest, can change your
whole attitude to school!

Wild animals
1. Are there any wild animals in your country?
Yes, my country is quite big, and there are icy regions, tropical regions and desert

19 / 116
regions, so we have a wide variety of wild animals of all sorts of different kinds. I
believe we also have animals like tigers, in certain regions, but they’re an endangered
species.

2. Have you ever been to a zoo or a safari park?

I have yes. I’ve been to the kind of zoo where you see a lot of animals in different
cages and zones, and I’ve also been to a drive-through safari where you go through a
large area in your car and the animals come right up to your windows sometimes –
rhinos, giraffes and so forth.

3. What is the animal you would like to see in the wild?

If I could go on a really wild safari or adventure holiday I’d go to Africa, to the
Serengeti plains and I’d like to see giraffes. I love giraffes, I think they’re so special
and unique. I’d love to have the chance to study them up close and learn more about
them in their natural habitat.

4. Are there TV programs about wild animals in your country?

Yes, there are plenty of wildlife documentaries aimed at both adults and children.
They are fairly popular. People like to learn about animals and their habits and
lifestyles.

Languages
1. What languages do you speak?
I speak English, Chinese and a little Japanese. I studied all three languages in school
from a very early age. Of course, Chinese is my native language so I also learned to
speak at home, as a child, like most children.

2. Have you ever learnt any foreign languages in school?

Yes, in school I learned English since I was in primary school, and later on I learned
Japanese and some Russian. I enjoy learning languages and learning about the culture
of the countries where those languages are spoken.

3. Do you think it's difficult to learn a new language?

I think it honestly depends on what the language is, and whether you are familiar with
the language family or not... I mean, if you are Chinese then it might be easier to learn
Japanese than, say, German… or Russian, because they share some characteristics in
common, at least in the written form. So, it really depends.

4. Will you learn another language in the future?

To be honest, I hope not. I don't really like learning languages much. I think that 3
languages is enough and I would like to focus on speaking those as well as possible,
and then focus my energy on my master's degree studies – in international relations.
So, it's not a priority for me to study any new languages. At least not in the
foreseeable future.

20 / 116
5. Why do people learn foreign languages?
People learn foreign languages for a few key reasons: mainly for work prospects in
the future – you know, to work in international business it’s good to speak another
language to facilitate communication. Others learn languages because of personal
interest.

Ambition and dream

1. Do you think you are an ambitious person?
That’s a good question….Actually, I don’t think I am that ambitious really. Usually in
life I choose to do things which I find to be predominantly stable and secure, rather
than especially ambitious or adventurous things – you know, when it comes to career
and work choices as well.

2. What was your dream when you were a child?

When I was a child I had simple and accessible dreams I’d say – I wanted to be a
teacher. I loved the idea of teaching children and sharing my thoughts and experiences
in life with them. I always had this dream as a youngster.

3. What is your main ambition in life now?

My main ambition in life, to be honest, is to maintain a stable, secure and simple
happy life. I don’t want to do anything especially fancy or amazing really. I enjoy the
simple things in life, I’d say. Nice food, family and good friends and company on the
weekends.

4. Are you the kind of person who never gives up on dreams?

I am the kind of person who persists, yes, at least with certain things. Because I have
realistic dreams I always feel they are obtainable, so I make sure I put the necessary
effort into making them come true. I rarely aim for things that I know I’m unable to
attain.

Day off
1. Do you usually spend your day off with parents or friends?
I usually spend my days off on my own a lot of the time. Maybe that sounds
anti-social, but I live alone in a flat in Beijing, and one of my favourite things is to
spend a weekend on my own watching TV series, reading and perhaps doing a bit of
shopping. So, generally I don’t really spend time with family or friends.

2. What do you often do on your days off?

On my days off I usually do things at a fairly relaxing pace, unless I have any
important things to do. I shop, I read, I watch TV, I take a coffee in a local mall. Stuff
like this.

3. When was the last time you had a few days off?

21 / 116
Last month I had some days off. I learned to bake cakes, I watched an entire TV series
(I’m a huge fan of detective TV series and crime thrillers), and I did some yoga.

4. What would you like to do if you had a day off tomorrow?

Tomorrow… I would stay at home, clean my house – it’s a real mess at the moment –
and sit on the sofa and watch a film and eat snacks. That’s exactly what I feel like
doing right now.

Keeping healthy
1. How do you keep healthy?
I do a few things. I ensure I eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, I drink a lot of water,
and I do a lot of exercise – go to the gym and play indoor tennis. I’m not a health
fanatic or anything, but I’m moderately health-conscious and keep fit.

2. What is your favorite sport?

Tennis, I love tennis, and I play all the year round. In summer, outside, and the rest of
the year I play in an indoor leisure centre. I’ve always been a big tennis fan. I like the
speed of the game and it keeps you really fit.

3. Are there any classes about keeping healthy in your school?

Not especially, but in physical education class in school we learn the basics of how
the body works and how to keep fit and what kinds of foods are better or worse for the
health.

4. Do you have any advice on keeping healthy for youngsters?

Youngsters shouldn’t be paranoid about their health, but they should make sure they
avoid two things – the temptations of eating junk food in malls, which is increasingly
available today, and having a highly sedentary lifestyle of sitting down playing
computer games or on their phones!

Favourite day
1. Which day is your favorite in a week?
Saturday. I love Saturdays. I feel really free on Saturday and usually do some sports,
go out with friends to a restaurant at night and generally let myself go and have fun on
Saturdays.

2. How do you usually spend your time on this day?

I usually wake up late, I have a good breakfast, I meet with friends in a mall and take
tea somewhere, and then I go to play basketball or tennis, maybe go to the cinema.
I’m always pretty active on Saturdays.

3. Which day is your least favorite in a week?

My least favourite is actually Sunday. Especially Sunday evening, as I feel a sense of
dread that my weekend is over and my working week is about to begin. I actually

22 / 116
even feel a bit depressed on Sundays. It’s silly, I know, but hey, that’s how I feel!

4. Is there anything you do every day?

I have some fairly strict routines to be honest. I often get up at the same time each day,
around 8am. I get dressed, of course, have a shower, and then I do some studies in the
morning, perhaps go for a run a few times a week on campus. These are the main
routines I have, not necessarily in that order!

The city you live in

1. What city do you live in?
I live in Chengdu, which is in Sichuan province. It’s an ancient city, well, originally,
and it’s famous for its spicy food, and its wonderful climate. It’s a very interesting and
pleasant place to live.

2. Do you like this city? Why?

I like the people actually – I find them friendly and warm. I also like the climate – it’s
basically spring most of the year round, well.. sort of… it actually can get pretty hot
in summer, but I like that too!

3. How long have you lived in this city?

I have lived in Chengdu almost all of my life, actually, except for a few years when I
was a baby – I was not actually born in Chengdu, you see, I was actually born in
Chongqing, but my parents moved to Chengdu when I was about 3 years old.

4. Are there any big changes in this city?

Like most cities in China, Chengdu has changed a lot since I was a child – it has
developed significantly in terms of infrastructure, facilities and amenities, public
transport and general modernization. However, it has maintained its traditional charm.

5. Is this city your permanent residence?

Yes, it is. I am working there as a marketing manager at the moment, and I’m lucky to
be able to find and develop a stable career in my home city, actually. I’m very happy
to live here for the foreseeable future.

23 / 116
 Topic Pool——Part Two (2023.09-12)
(蓝色为本季新题，黑色为保留旧题)
 People: (11)
Describe a foreigner who can speak Chinese well.
Describe a person you know who likes to cook for others.
Describe a famous athlete you know.
Describe an interesting person you never met but you would like to know more
about him/her.
Describe a successful business person you admire.
Describe a person you study/work with who is successful in his/her life.
Describe a person who has interesting ideas or opinions.
Describe someone you know who has recently moved to a new place.
Describe someone living in your area who often helps others.
Describe a popular person.
Describe a person you know who is from a different culture.

 Object:
（具体 6）
Describe a photo that makes you happy.
Describe a painting/drawing you enjoy watching.
Describe a piece of clothing you wear most often.
Describe an invention that is useful in your daily life.
Describe a book you have read many times.
Describe a piece of technology you own that you feel difficult to use.
（抽象 8）
Describe a rule that is important in your school or at work.
Describe one area of science (medicine, physics and etc.) that sounds interesting
to you.
Describe a good advertisement that you think is useful.
Describe a historical period you want to know more about.
Describe a movie you watched recently that you felt disappointed about.
Describe a job you are interested in.
Describe a sport you enjoy watching.
Describe a water sport you would like to try in the future.

 Place: (7)
Describe a place in your country that you think is interesting
Describe a park or garden in your city.
Describe a beautiful city you have visited.
Describe a new shop that recently opened in your city/town.
Describe a house that you would like to have.

24 / 116
Describe a place you went to where there are a lot of people.
Describe a place far away from your home and you want to visit it in the future.

 Event: (21)
 Describe a time when you had a problem with using the computer.
 Describe a time when you waited a long time for a nice thing.
 Describe a time when something changed your life in a good way.
 Describe an activity you did that made you feel tired.
 Describe a party you enjoyed.
 Describe a bad service you received in a restaurant or shop.
 Describe a piece of good advice that you gave to someone.
 Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study and you felt
proud of the experience.
 Describe an exciting activity you did with others.
 Describe a long car journey you went on.
 Describe a happy experience in your childhood.
 Describe an occasion when you lost your way.
 Describe an occasion when you spent time with a young child.
 Describe a game you played in your childhood.
 Describe a time when you had to talk to a group of people.
 Describe an exciting adventure you would like to go on.
 Describe an occasion when you got incorrect information.
 Describe a traditional celebration in your country that you enjoy.
 Describe a time when you saved money to buy an expensive gift for others.
 Describe an important decision you made in life.
 Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free time when you were young.

 注：二、三部分具体题卡如下

25 / 116
 Topic Pool——Part Two & Part Three
People:
 Describe a foreigner who can speak Chinese well.
 Describe a person you know who likes to cook for others.
 Describe a famous athlete you know.
 Describe an interesting person you never met but you would like to know
more about him/her.
 Describe a successful business person you admire.
 Describe a person you study/work with who is successful in his/her life.
 Describe a person who has interesting ideas or opinions.
 Describe someone you know who has recently moved to a new place.
 Describe someone living in your area who often helps others.
 Describe a popular person.
 Describe a person you know who is from a different culture.

Describe a foreigner who can speak Chinese well.

You should say:
Who he/she is
How you know him/her
Why he/she can speak Chinese well
And explain how you feel about this person

I would like to talk about my friend Sarah, who is a remarkable foreigner proficient in
speaking Chinese. I first met Sarah during our college years when we were both
enrolled in a Chinese language course.

Sarah's ability to speak Chinese fluently is truly impressive. She dedicated a

significant amount of time and effort to learning the language, starting from scratch.
She not only attended regular language classes but also immersed herself in Chinese
culture by watching Chinese movies, reading Chinese literature, and even
participating in language exchange programs with native Chinese speakers.

What sets Sarah apart is her unwavering determination and passion for the language.
She was always eager to practice her Chinese skills, whether through daily
conversations or participating in Chinese-speaking clubs or meeting random people in
bars and just talking to them. She even spent a semester studying in China, which was
a transformative, which also further honed her language abilities.

I have great admiration for Sarah's language skills and her commitment to mastering
Chinese. I’m a little bit envious of her dedication, to be honest. Her dedication serves

26 / 116
as an inspiration to many, including me, and her proficiency in Chinese has opened up
numerous opportunities in her career, making her a valuable asset in an increasingly
globalized world.

Overall, Sarah's ability to speak Chinese fluently is not only a testament to her hard
work but also a testament to the idea that with dedication and perseverance and a
certain open-mindedness, anyone can overcome language barriers and embrace the
richness of another culture.

Part 3
1. When do students in China start to learn foreign languages?
In China, students typically start learning foreign languages in primary school, which
can begin as early as six years old. English is the most commonly taught foreign
language, but some schools introduce other languages like Japanese or Russian or
even Spanish at a later stage. Until recent years, learning a foreign language was also
something that many young people did in academies or private language schools,
though today this isn’t so much the case, as the world of education is going through a
number of reforms.

2. What qualities should a language teacher have?

An effective language teacher should possess several qualities. First and foremost,
they should have a deep understanding of the language they are teaching. Patience,
adaptability, and strong communication skills are crucial to effectively convey
complex language concepts. Additionally, being culturally aware and open-minded
can enhance the learning experience for students.

3. Do you have any techniques in learning languages?

Yes, there are several techniques that can aid in language learning. Immersion, where
a learner surrounds themselves with the target language, can be highly effective.
Regular practice through speaking, reading, and writing is essential. Utilizing
language-learning apps, flashcards, and language exchange programs can also be
beneficial.

4. Compared with adults, do you think it is faster for children to learn languages?
Generally, children tend to learn languages more quickly than adults. Their
developing brains are more adaptable to new linguistic patterns and sounds. However,
the speed of language acquisition can vary greatly among individuals, and motivation
and exposure to the language play significant roles. Children, however, can also be
less motivated, at times – especially if they are introduced to something in a really
boring way – but if you make something a bit more exciting, then you can really
engage children in learning new things and they will learn really fast compared to
adults.

5. How does technology influence language learning?

27 / 116
Technology has a profound effect on language learning. Language apps, online
courses, and interactive software provide learners with accessible and engaging
resources. Virtual communication tools like video conferencing allow learners to
connect with native speakers for practice. However, technology should complement
traditional learning methods, as face-to-face interaction and cultural immersion
remain essential components of language acquisition – at least in my opinion.

Describe a person you know who likes to cook for others.

You should say:
Who this person is
What he/she likes to cook
How this person learned to cook
And explain why this person likes to cook for others.

I have a close friend named Sarah who has an incredible passion for cooking,
especially when it comes to preparing delectable dishes for others. She's not just
someone who occasionally dabbles in the culinary arts; she's a true aficionado who
thrives in the kitchen. Sarah's culinary journey is nothing short of remarkable, and it's
her dedication and enthusiasm that truly sets her apart.

One of Sarah's standout qualities is her ability to craft an astonishing range of dishes,
but where she truly shines is in her baking prowess. Pastries, cakes, cookies, and pies
emerge from her oven like masterpieces of edible art. These baked goods are not just
delicious; they're carefully crafted works of culinary excellence. It's not uncommon to
see Sarah meticulously decorating a cake with intricate designs or arranging the
perfect combination of ingredients for her signature pastries.

Sarah's journey to culinary expertise has been a blend of formal education and
self-driven learning. She embarked on her culinary adventure by enrolling in a
renowned culinary school, where she underwent rigorous training. There, she honed
her techniques, learned the nuances of flavor pairing, and perfected the art of creating
intricate desserts. But what truly sets Sarah apart is her insatiable curiosity and
determination. In addition to her formal education, she spends countless hours
experimenting in her kitchen. She seeks inspiration from cookbooks, culinary blogs,
and cooking shows, which she then translates into her unique creations.

The reason behind Sarah's unwavering commitment to cooking for others is her belief
in the profound impact of food on human connections. She sees cooking as a beautiful
form of self-expression and a means of conveying her love and warmth to those
around her. For Sarah, the act of preparing a meal is not merely about the food itself
but the experience it fosters.

Part 3

28 / 116
1. What do we need to prepare when we cook?
When we cook, there are several things we need to prepare. First, we need the
ingredients, which include the main components of the dish and any spices or
seasonings. Then, we require the necessary kitchen utensils and equipment, such as
pots, pans, knives, and cutting boards. Additionally, we should have a recipe or a
general idea of how we want to prepare the dish, as well as a clean and organized
workspace. All these elements contribute towards a successful cooking experience.

2. Do you agree that food is an important part of Chinese festivals?

Yes, food is undoubtedly an integral part of Chinese festivals. In China, festivals are
often associated with specific dishes and culinary traditions that have been passed
down through generations. These foods not only have cultural significance but also
play a vital role in bringing families and communities together to celebrate. Whether
it's dumplings during the Spring Festival or mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn
Festival, food is a symbol of togetherness and tradition in Chinese festivals.

3. Should children learn cooking in school?

Teaching children how to cook at school is a valuable and practical skill. Cooking not
only fosters independence but also promotes a healthy lifestyle. It's essential for
children to learn about nutrition, food safety, and meal preparation from a young age.
Cooking classes can teach them valuable life skills that they'll carry into adulthood,
helping them make healthier food choices and reduce their reliance on processed
foods.

4. Do you think cooking should be a compulsory or an elective course at school?

Why?
Whether cooking should be a compulsory or elective course at school depends on
various factors. Making it compulsory ensures that every student gains essential
cooking skills, promoting healthier eating habits and self-sufficiency. However, some
students may have a limited interest in cooking, and making it elective allows those
who are genuinely interested to pursue it while providing flexibility for others to
choose different subjects. Ultimately, the decision should consider the educational
goals of the curriculum and the needs and preferences of students.

Describe a famous athlete you know.

You should say:
Who he/she is
How you knew him/her
What he/she has achieved
And explain why he/she is famous

Well, I don't really know much about sports. I'm not a very sporty person or very
interested in sports. However, not so long ago I saw a documentary about a famous

29 / 116
boxer called Muhammed Ali. He was born in 1942, and I think he died a few years
ago now. Anyway, he became a really famous boxer in the 1960s, and beat some of
the very best boxers in the world. He was also a very good speaker, and a charismatic
individual, so he also became an actor and featured in numerous films. In the early
1980s, however, he developed Parkinson's disease which many people thought had
been triggered by his countless boxing injuries.
The documentary I saw traced his life from childhood to his death, and his story is an
interesting one. He's an example of one of those people from a fairly modest
background, who rose to fame through a combination of hard work and determination
and a certain amount of chance and personality. In the mid-1960s he refused to enter
into the US military to take part in the Vietnam War, as he had a moral objection to
the war, and this annoyed the authorities somewhat, as it inspired many other fit and
able men to also follow him and refuse to go to war as well! Anyway, I find these kind
of documentaries very interesting, and a boxer, as far as I know, is regarded as an
athlete, so… that's the story of the athlete that I know a little bit about.

Part 3
1. What kinds of exercises do Chinese people like to do?
All sorts. There isn't really one type that all Chinese people enjoy doing. Some people
like jogging, some enjoy working out at the gym, some get involved in team sports
like basketball, some play football… I know people who engage in a wide range of
sporting activities and physical exercise.

2. What characteristics do you think an athlete should have?

I think most good athletes, first and foremost, have a strong determination to succeed
and a will to self-improve. You'd got to be ambitious and determined if you want to be
an athlete, and that's the most important quality. If you have the drive and confidence,
then that's half the hard work done… and you can go from there to develop a talent.

3. Do you think PE classes should be replaced by academic classes?

Physical education (PE) classes should not be entirely replaced by academic classes.
Both types of classes are essential for a well-rounded education. PE promotes
physical health and teaches teamwork and discipline, while academic classes develop
cognitive skills. So, in general, I do not think it’s good to replace PE with academic
subjects – schools should find a way to create a balanced curriculum.

4. How can people know whether a child has talent for sports?
Identifying a child's talent for sports can be done by observing their performance,
assessing their physical abilities, and providing opportunities for them to participate in
various sports activities. Another way, that some people promote, is regular sports or
physical education tests or exams. I, personally, am not a fan of this approach, but
some would say that it is an important way to keep children motivated in sports, as
well as assessing their competence and level of development in these areas.

30 / 116
 Describe an interesting person you never met but you would like to know
more about him/her.
You should say:
Who this person is
How you knew him/her
Why you think he/she is interesting
And explain how you feel about this person

One intriguing individual I've always been curious about is Dr. Jane Goodall, the
renowned primatologist and conservationist. I first came across her work through
documentaries and books. Dr. Goodall's pioneering research on chimpanzees in
Tanzania's Gombe Stream National Park revolutionized our understanding of these
creatures and their complex social structures.

What makes Dr. Goodall fascinating is not just her scientific contributions but also her
unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and animal welfare. Her
journey from a young, untrained researcher to a leading figure in primatology is
nothing short of inspiring. I would love to learn more about her experiences in the
wild, her perspectives on conservation, and the challenges she faced as a woman in a
male-dominated field.

It's not just her professional accomplishments that intrigue me; it's also her
compassionate and empathetic approach to understanding and protecting our planet. I
find her dedication to making the world a better place deeply inspiring and believe
there are many lessons to be learned from her life and work.

I think we can learn quite a lot from taking inspiration from such people, and I think
that watching documentaries about them or hearing about them in class in school can
help to motivate and educate young people about issues in the wider world.

Part 3
1. Compared with the countryside, do you think big cities are more suitable for
children?
The suitability of big cities versus the countryside for children depends on various
factors. Big cities offer more educational and extracurricular opportunities…maybe…,
but they may lack the natural surroundings and safety and communal atmosphere that
rural areas provide. The choice often depends on individual preferences and priorities.

2. Do you think people nowadays prefer online talking to face-to-face talk?

People's preferences for communication methods can vary. While online chat and
digital communication are convenient, many still value face-to-face interactions for
the depth and authenticity they offer. Although online chatting is incredibly popular
and you might argue that people are addicted, or hooked on, online social media, I

31 / 116
actually strongly believe that people need and thrive off face-to-face social
interactions; so, ultimately, however much we rely on online communications,
nothing will actually come to fully replace the human need for person-to-person social
interaction.

3. Do you think it is easier for people in cities to feel lonely than those living in the
countryside?
Loneliness can affect people in both cities and the countryside, but the factors
contributing to it may differ. In cities, the pace of life and high population density can
lead to social isolation, while in rural areas, physical distance from neighbors and
limited social opportunities may play a role. Loneliness is a complex issue influenced
by various individual factors, personality factors, family issues, as well as
environmental factors.

4. Where and how can people get to know new acquaintances?

People can meet new acquaintances through various means, including social events,
clubs, sports activities, volunteering, online communities, and workplace interactions.
Building connections often involves shared interests and common activities. There’s
also a personality factor involved: if someone is extrovert, outgoing, they are more
likely to throw themselves into situations where they are going to meet new people,
regardless of where they live; however, if someone is more introvert, they may be shy,
they may take longer to have the confidence to put themselves into new situations.

Describe a successful business person you admire.

You should say:
Who this person is
What kind of business this person does
Why this person are successful
And explain why you admire this person

A business person I really admire is my auntie, actually. She started a small clothing
company in our home city about twenty years ago. She had some connections with
designers in France, and imported unique boutique garments and accessories. Initially
she sold these items in a very tasteful shop, but as the internet became a popular way
of doing business she started an online store. She gradually started to expand the
product range that she sold, while maintaining a consistent company image and brand
image. She really displayed a great head for business. I think one of the reasons she
became quite successful in her small business was her capacity to adapt to the
changing times and changing trends, both in the online shopping world, and in terms
of the kinds of designs that she chose. She didn’t just sell anything she could sell –
she chose the items very carefully and established herself as an exclusive boutique
outlet. I admire her because I think she combined a good head for business, strategy
and management, and a great passion for fashion and design. She wasn’t too greedy or

32 / 116
attracted to selling anything just to make money. I haven’t seen my auntie since I left
our home city, and I haven’t maintained that much contact with her, so I am not
exactly sure what she’s doing now, but I guess she’s still running the business, both
her physical shop in the city and her online store. I should get back in touch with her
and see how she’s doing, actually!

Part 3
1. Are there many family businesses in your country?
Family businesses are quite common in my country. They often have a strong sense of
tradition and heritage, and they contribute significantly to the economy. These
businesses can span various industries, from retail and manufacturing to agriculture
and services.

2. What are the advantages of working in a family business?

Working in a family business can have several advantages. Firstly, there is often a
strong sense of shared values and commitment to the business's success among family
members. This can lead to increased dedication and a long-term perspective. Secondly,
family businesses often have a more personal and flexible approach to management,
allowing for quicker decision-making and adaptability. Additionally, the passing down
of knowledge and skills through generations can foster innovation and resilience.

3. What do you think is the most important quality of an employee?

The most important quality of an employee can vary depending on the specific job
and workplace. However, adaptability and a willingness to learn and grow are
generally highly regarded qualities. Employees who can embrace change, acquire new
skills, and contribute to the organization's goals tend to be highly regarded by
employers.

4. Is it easy for a business to be successful without affecting the environment?

Achieving business success without negatively affecting the environment can be
challenging, but it is increasingly essential. Many companies are now focusing on
sustainability practices, which can enhance their reputation, reduce costs, and attract
environmentally-conscious consumers. Success without environmental harm often
requires a commitment to eco-friendly practices, responsible sourcing, and ethical
considerations in production and distribution.

5. Do happy employees help to run a company?

Happy employees can indeed play a crucial role in running a company effectively.
Contented workers are typically more motivated, engaged, and productive. They tend
to collaborate better, offer creative solutions, and provide better customer service.
Employee satisfaction can reduce turnover rates, recruitment costs, and training
expenses. Overall, fostering a positive work environment and prioritizing employee
well-being can contribute significantly to a company's success.

33 / 116
 Describe a person you study/work with who is successful in his/her life.
You should say:
Who this person is
How you knew him/her
What makes him/her successful
And explain how you feel about studying or working with this person

One of the individuals I've had the privilege to study with and who has achieved
remarkable success in life is my college friend, Sarah. We first crossed paths when we
enrolled in the same program at university. Sarah has always been an inspiration to
me due to her unwavering dedication and a unique blend of talents that make her
successful.

Sarah's success can be attributed to her incredible work ethic. She's always been the
first one to the library and the last one to leave, consistently maintaining a high level
of commitment to her studies. Moreover, she possesses excellent communication and
leadership skills, allowing her to excel in group projects and extracurricular activities.

What truly sets Sarah apart is her passion for making a difference in the world. She is
involved in various volunteer and philanthropic initiatives, working tirelessly to
address societal issues. Her determination to create a positive impact on the
community is truly inspiring.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have studied alongside Sarah. She not only excels
academically but also serves as a role model for those around her. Her success is a
testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a genuine desire to make the
world a better place. I find spending time with people like this motivating – they set a
good example for the rest of us – as some of us, like me, for example, sometimes find
it hard to really dedicate ourselves to something with discipline and passion.

Part 3
1. Do you think a successful person can be popular at the same time?
Yes, a successful person can be popular at the same time. Success often comes with
recognition and achievements, which can make individuals well-known and admired
in their fields or communities. Popular figures are also more likely to gain
opportunities and support that can contribute to their own success.

2. Which one is more important? Being popular or having good grades?

Both being popular and having good grades have their significance, but their
importance depends on individual goals and values. Good grades are essential for
academic and career development while popularity can be valuable in social and
networking contexts. Ultimately, the balance between the two depends on one's
priorities and personality.

34 / 116
3. Do you think students who do well in academic study will be become successful
later in life?
While academic success can be an indicator of potential success in later life, it's not
the sole determinant. Success is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various
aspects, including personal skills, determination, and adaptability. Some individuals
who excel academically may not necessarily achieve success in their careers, while
others with different strengths may thrive. So, it really depends.

4. Do you think rich people are successful?

Being rich is one aspect of success I guess, but it doesn't guarantee overall success.
Success can be defined in various ways, including personal achievements, fulfillment,
and happiness, and contribution to society. While wealth can be a factor in success, it
doesn't encompass all aspects of having a successful life.

5. Do you think it is easier for people to become successful nowadays than in the
past?
It’s challenging to make a general comparison between success in the past and present
because the definition of success has evolved over time. The availability of
opportunities, technology, and societal expectations have changed, making it difficult
to conclude whether it's easier or harder to become more successful today. Success
remains a subjective and context-dependent concept.

6. What do people need to sacrifice in order to be successful?

To achieve success, individuals often need to sacrifice time, effort, and sometimes
personal comfort. They may have to forgo leisure activities, invest in educational
training, or make difficult career decisions. Sacrifices can vary greatly depending on
one's goals and circumstances.

Describe a person who has interesting ideas or opinions.

You should say:
Who this person is
How you knew him/her
What this person does
And explain why you think his/her ideas or opinions are interesting

I'd like to tell you about a college professor named Dr. Anderson, whom I had the
privilege of knowing during my undergraduate studies. I first met Dr. Anderson when
I enrolled in his philosophy course, which was a requirement for my degree. He is a
well-respected academic with a specialization in ethics and moral philosophy.

Dr. Anderson's classes were always filled with engaging discussions and debates. He
had a unique ability to present complex philosophical concepts in an approachable

35 / 116
manner, making it easier for students to grasp ethical theories. His teaching style
involved encouraging students to think critically and question conventional wisdom,
which I found really stimulating.

What sets Dr. Anderson apart and makes his ideas and opinions particularly
interesting is his unorthodox approach to ethics. While he respects classical ethical
theories, he often challenges them with innovative new perspectives. For instance, he
introduced us to the concept of "experimental ethics," where he argued that ethical
theories should be tested and refined. This approach was quite unconventional, at least
in my society, but thought-provoking for me.

Moreover, Dr. Anderson's commitment to real-world application of ethical principles

was inspiring. He actively participated in community outreach programs,
collaborating with local organizations to address ethical dilemmas, you know, like
hospitals and hospices, and to promote social justice. His dedication to bridging the
gap between theory and practice made his ideas even more fascinating.

Overall, Dr. Anderson's ability to make philosophy relevant and his willingness to
explore unconventional viewpoints make him a truly remarkable person with
interesting ideas and opinions – at least in my view. He has influenced my perspective
on ethics in profound ways, and I continue to be inspired by his work today, as I
progress in my career in mental health.

Part 3
1. How do inventors and philosophers come up with new ideas?
Inventors and philosophers often come up with new ideas through a combination of
factors. They may draw inspiration from their observations of the world around them,
analyze existing problems, and think critically. Collaboration with others, extensive
research, and a deep understanding of their field can also contribute to generating
innovative ideas.

2. Do you think children should have their own opinions?

Yes, I believe it's important for children to develop their own opinions. Encouraging
children to form their own viewpoints fosters critical thinking and independence. It
allows them to express themselves and build confidence in their decision-making
abilities, which are essential skills for their personal and intellectual growth and their
careers in the future.

3. Why do children often have similar opinions to their parents?

Children often have similar opinions to their parents because parents serve as
significant role models and influences in their lives. Children tend to adopt their
parents' values, beliefs, and opinions during their formative years. This alignment can
result from both direct guidance from parents and the natural desire to fit in with their
family's values, traditions and expectations.

36 / 116
4. Do you think teachers influence students’ opinions?
Teachers can indeed influence students' opinions to some extent. Educators play a
crucial role in shaping students' perspectives by providing information, facilitating
discussions, and encouraging critical thinking. However, the degree of influence can
vary depending on the teacher's teaching style, the students' receptiveness, and the
subject matter being taught. Ultimately, students should be encouraged to explore
diverse viewpoints and form their own conclusions.

Describe someone you know who has recently moved to a new place.
You should say:
Who he/she is
What the new place is like
Why he/she moved to this place
And explain whether his or her move has a positive impact on you

Well, my cousin, actually. I was speaking to him on the phone only a few days ago.
He has recently moved to Xi’an, because he got a place in Xi’an International Studies
University – he’s studying English there, in fact. He’s really excited about it, not only
because he’s keen to start university, but because he likes the city. It’s always been
quite a cool city, in my opinion. It’s got a unique vibe to it, great food and a variety of
restaurants, and good nightlife, and a very attractive city centre too – the south gate,
the old city wall, the bell tower, and the Muslim quarter. All nice areas not just for
tourists, but for locals too. The move will certainly have a positive impact on me too,
because I already have made plans to go visit him. You see, he’s going pretty early,
he’s not waiting till just before his course starts – he has rented an apartment with two
friends not far from campus, and I will go help him set it up, and stay there for a few
weeks. I’m super excited about it actually, because we will discover the city together.
Although both of us have been there before, it was many years ago, and with our
parents on holiday, so it’s not the same as being there for weeks, left to our own
devices with freedom to do whatever we want! So, yeah, you could say that my
cousin’s move to Xi’an will certainly have a positive impact on me, definitely.

Part 3
1. Is it a positive thing for young people to live by themselves?
I think in general, it is, though there are certain drawbacks to it. It’s great to have the
freedom of living alone, being independent, fending for oneself, etc. However, it’s
also a bit challenging for some people, as they’ve got to learn how to do lots of
domestic things, possibly for the very first time, and they’ve got to cope with life in
an apartment with no family around them – possibly learn to get on with a flatmate
that they are not so familiar with. These kinds of moves can be quite a big deal for
young people.

37 / 116
2. Apart from cooking, are there any other skills that people need to learn if they
live on their own?
People often learn to do daily domestic tasks like washing, cleaning, organizing the
home, keeping clean and tidy. Also, being alone more – waking up in the morning and
not having someone else there to talk to, or put breakfast on the table, or prepare your
clothes. There’s a lot of daily things that young people take for granted when they live
with their parents, that they suddenly realise they have to be very on top of when they
live alone – and they often realise that these daily domestic tasks and chores take a lot
more time than they think, and as a result they come to appreciate their parents more
too!

3. What kinds of people tend to live by themselves?

I don’t think there is a specific type of person who lives on their own. But, I suppose
it’s people who move to new cities to do new jobs for the most part. For example, I
have a number of friends, who, after graduation, got jobs in big companies in Beijing,
and of course, they moved there. They had to find an apartment, rent it out, make a
home for themselves, as well as get used to a new job. This is fairly common today.
So, often it’s graduates who have found a job in another city – these are the people
who usually end up living by themselves, at least until they get married.

4. Why do some young people keep moving?

Some young people keep moving because they follow the jobs they get. That’s the
main reason. I don’t think in China people move just because they want to live in a
certain place. Usually, it’s motivated by a job offer, although, of course, there are
exceptions, some people, perhaps more arty types, might decide to go live a different
lifestyle someplace else – I have two friends, for example, who moved to a small
town outside Dali, because they like the Yunnan lifestyle, and it’s ideal for music and
art and all that. So, that’s something that happens too. And then after a few years they
might move somewhere else, like Hainan, or somewhere.

5. What’s the difference between living alone and living with roommates?
Living alone can be a double-edged sword really. I mean, it’s great to be alone and not
be bothered by living with different people. But, also, it can be fairly lonely at times. I
don’t think a lot of girls like living on their own, for example. But, also, having
roommates can be a real challenge, especially if they are really messy or they have
very different habits to us. So, like many things in life, it depends on the people, the
situation and the place that you’re living.

Describe someone living in your area who often helps others.

You should say:
What he/she is like
How he/she helps others
Why his/her help is beneficial
And explain why he/she often helps others

38 / 116
A person that immediately comes to mind who lives in my area who always helps
others, is an elderly lady we call Mrs. Liu or Miss Liu. You see, we live in a fairly old
community which consists of about 5 apartment blocks, 5 stories high, set around a
fairly nice central garden with pathways and car parking spaces. There’s also a sort of
trellis with plants growing over it, and some stone tables and stools where a lot of
older people sit from spring until autumn. Miss Liu is a pensioner who lives on the
bottom floor of our building. She’s almost always sitting outside the building in the
shade of a dragon claw tree (I think that’s what the tree might be called). She is the
person who knows absolutely everyone in the community and is friendly with
everyone. She’s not just friendly, but she’s massively helpful. She actually enjoys
helping people so much that it has basically become her ‘unofficial role’ – she knows
everything about everything – or, at least, it seems so! She helps people by putting
them in contact with painters and decorators if they are renovating their apartments,
by calling an electrician if someone has an electrical problem, and even talking to
people about their emotional problems… She also gives people fruits and vegetables
sometimes, if she has any leftover. There is a really old man who is not in good health,
living in the building opposite, and Miss Liu will often give him soup in a metal bowl,
almost every day actually. So, her help is not just beneficial for everyone in the
community, I ’ d say it was almost essential for some of us! She’s so remarkably
helpful, and always really bouncy and happy and positive too, in a very sincere and
genuine way. I think she is motivated by a love for humanity, really. I don’t know
exactly why she is like this. I’ve never really thought about it – it’s just her personality,
I suppose.

Part 3
1. What can children help parents with?
Children can help parents with all sorts of domestic chores around the house. I know
that a lot of parents tend to spoil their children and not let them do household chores
and stuff like this, but I think this is a bad idea. I think children should learn to help
around the house and learn that life is not all fun and games – adults have to do things
they don’t enjoy (like washing up or cleaning the house etc) and so children should
learn from an early age that life is like that – there are jobs we need to do at home. So,
if kids learn to muck in by helping clean up, wash dishes and do stuff like this on a
daily or weekly basis, then this is good for everyone.

2. Should children be taught to help others?

Yes, children most definitely should be taught to help others, yes. It’s an important
part of living in society with others – being polite, kind and helpful to others. Children
need to learn to get along with other people and a main feature of this is basically
being a helpful person. Of course, at the same time, children should learn in what
situations and with whom, they should be helpful. They need to grow up to be astute
and be able to judge and gauge who they should help and trust and who they should

39 / 116
perhaps keep more of a distance from, in order that they avoid being exploited, or
avoid potentially dangerous situations with people who cannot be trusted. But in
general, if done judiciously, children definitely should be taught to be helpful
members of society.

3. Should students do community services?

I think that it’s a good idea that students get involved in some sort of voluntary work,
most certainly. And, to be honest, not just students, but all of us! The world would be
a much better place if everyone did a certain amount of voluntary work every month –
whether it’s helping take food to the homes of older people with mobility issues, or
whether it’s helping drive sick people to hospital for treatment, working in an
orphanage, collecting clothes for refugees – there are plenty of charitable things
people can do in the local community – doing this kind of thing is very good for our
development too.

4. Why do some people do volunteer work all over the world?

Some people are motivated by helping humanity more than others, and not pursuing
goals for their own financial gain. This is a really admirable quality, but also can be
because those people have personal interests which also align with helping
professions – it can be a personality thing, is what I’m saying. You know, some
people who want to get involved in global helping projects actually want to combine
their love for adventure with helping others – perhaps like doctors who enjoy working
with the infirmed and poor in lesser developed countries, for example: they are
combining their medical knowledge, skill and interest with their personal desire to
contribute to humanity and make the world a better place. These things can come
from a great compassion – some people are simply much more compassionate than
others!

Describe a popular person.

You should say:
Who he/she is
What he/she has done
Why he/she is popular
And explain how you feel about him/her

I’d like to talk about a guy in my class in university who is really popular. In fact, I’m
a bit envious of him, because he is popular with everyone – the girls, the boys, the
teachers, and even people we meet outside! It’s unbelievable. Although I’m a bit
jealous of him, I actually also really like him! Which makes it even more annoying –
he’s a genuinely a nice guy. He’s cool, fashionable, handsome, strong and always
really well-dressed, but also a really nice, friendly, polite and kind, generous guy, too.
It’s like he has it all! He always makes us laugh, tells really funny jokes; he always
studies hard too, without being a boring geek! He always gets involved in sports and

40 / 116
social activities on and off campus and he is always willing to help people if they
need help with literally anything. I don’t really know how he manages to be so nice,
and cool at the same time. He has a very even temper, he very very rarely shows it if
he is annoyed about something, and strives to understand how other people feel in a
really mature way. I think that’s also why the teachers like him, too – he’s quite
mature and grown-up for his age really. As if he’s had a lot of life experience which
he has integrated into his personality really well. I have been friends with him for a
few years now, and although, like I said before, I do feel a bit jealous of him, I also
really enjoy spending time with him. We go for drinks in the bar opposite university
and do KTV together and chat about life, and he always attracts other people to our
table, so I get to make new friends almost every time we go out together. So, yeah, all
in all, he’s the most popular person I know.

Part 3
1. Why do some students want to become popular?
Some students want to become popular basically because it’s really great when a lot
of people like you! I mean, everyone wants to be liked, yeah? But, also I think some
people are more inclined to want popularity than others – people who are more
extrovert are more likely to want to become popular. Some kids are more introverted
and definitely don’t really care about popularity much, whereas others are highly
social and care a lot about what their peers and other people think of them and seek to
maintain friendships with more people. So, it’s most certainly a personality thing too.

2. What kinds of people are more popular at school?

The kinds of students who are popular in school are usually the ones who are
easy-going, sporty and fashionable. At least to some extent. You know, those people
that appeal to the mainstream tastes. Everyone is attracted to people who are positive,
too, so being a positive person with a sense of humour and an outgoing attitude to life
is always something that attracts other people.

3. Do you think a good teacher should become popular?

I’m not sure. I think that good teachers are often not the teachers that are the most
popular. So, it’s hard to say. Some teachers are fun and popular simply because they
are easy-going and not very strict, but that doesn’t mean they are good teachers – it
simply can mean that they are relaxed with the students and don’t put that much
pressure on them. So, when it comes to teachers, sometimes popularity isn’t always a
sign that they are actually good teachers.

4. Why are some celebrities not popular?

Some celebrities are more popular than others, naturally, as, after all, they are only
human, just like the rest of us! But I’d say that the ones that are least popular are those
that end up letting their fame go to their heads and display a negative attitude to others
in the media, or end up getting involved in scandals which give them a bad name. Not
all celebrities are “good people” in terms of how they behave and how they treat

41 / 116
others, and there are plenty of stories in which celebrities end up tarnishing their own
reputations and losing popularity because they behave badly, or get involved in doing
things that have a negative influence on their public image.

Describe a person you know who is from a different culture.

You should say:
Who he/she is
Where he/she is from
How you knew him/her
And explain how you feel about this person

The person I’d like to talk about who is from a different culture is a co-worker of
mine called Jez. Jez is from America. We have a lot of exposure to Americans and the
key symbols of American culture, from the world of music, cinema and popular
culture. One could argue that American world domination has come in the form of
commercialism, big business, and a drive for free markets and entrepreneurship.
Whatever we may think of America and Americans, the good things and the bad
things – the point is: Jez really is from a different culture to me, and the more we
work together the more I realise what some of these differences are. I’ll talk here very
concisely about a couple of positive and negative aspects of his culture, the way I see
it. Americans seem to be quite open, direct, and generally motivated and positive on
the surface. They aren’t very reserved really – at least not about superficial things, and
at least not in public. They exude a certain confidence, and that can be inspiring and
welcoming, too, because they can also be quite positive about others. I’ve had a lot of
encouragement from him at work, for example. On the other hand, I can’t help
thinking that sometimes he’s a bit simple-minded. At times, it seems that they are too
open and outspoken and put on too much of a ‘positive face’ with everything, and at
the same time are too critical of other people’s cultures, and don’t make that much
effort to really deeply understand them. So, with Jez, I have experienced both positive
and not-so-positive aspects of American culture. I feel good about him, though, he’s a
colleague and friend and after all, we have to accept people have different ways in the
global world we live in today.

Part 3
1. How can we get to know people from different cultures better?
Well, one of the most important things is to try to listen to them, ask them questions
about their lives, their experiences, their families and their views, and adopt a less
judgemental stance. Usually people understand each other better through talking
about things, entering into discussion, and even agreeing to disagree – having
discussions where we do not share the same viewpoints and being open to this. These
are all ways to understand people from other cultural backgrounds.

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of cultural diversity?

42 / 116
The advantages are that a country can leverage more talent and more varied talent.
When a place is highly multicultural there will be a greater sharing of different ways
of doing things, and different ways of thinking. And, of course, the downside is that
there will inevitably arise more conflict, as well. When people with different views
mix together, there will be both greater sharing and at the same time greater conflict,
as well.

3. How can traditional culture and other cultures coexist?

Well, they certainly can co-exist because they have been co-existing in many
countries for thousands of years. People are highly adaptable if they are given the
right contexts and environments to live in – a society that encourages diversity and
diverse different views and perspectives will enable different cultural elements to
co-exist – and though there will be clashes between traditional cultures, modern
cultures and different cultures, there will also be a rich co-existence at the same time.

43 / 116
Object:（具体）
 Describe a photo that makes you happy.
 Describe a painting/drawing you enjoy looking at.
 Describe a piece of clothing you wear most often.
 Describe an invention that is useful in your daily life.
 Describe a book you have read many times.
 Describe a piece of technology you own that you feel difficult to use.

Describe a photo that makes you happy.

You should say:
What the photo is like
When and where you took this photo
How often you look at this picture
And explain why this photo makes you happy

The photo that brings a smile to my face is a picture of my family taken during a
summer vacation a few years ago. In this photo, we are all gathered around a beach
bonfire, with the sun setting over the sea behind us. The warm, golden hues of the
setting sun cast a beautiful glow on our faces, and the joy on everyone's faces is
evident.

I captured this moment during a family trip to a coastal town in Hainan. It was a
serene evening by the beach, and the photo was taken just before we lit the bonfire.
The salty breeze, the sound of crashing waves, and the laughter of my family
members created a perfect atmosphere.

I don't look at this photo too frequently, but I often come across it when I'm scrolling
through my digital album on the phone. It's one of those pictures that instantly
transports me back to that wonderful vacation.

This photo makes me incredibly happy for several reasons. Firstly, it reminds me of
the precious moments spent with my loved ones. We lead busy lives, and it's not often
that we are all together like that. Secondly, it captures the natural beauty of the beach
and the tranquility of that moment, which I find extremely soothing. Lastly, the
happiness on our faces seems almost infectious, and it serves as a reminder of the
importance of cherishing family bonds and creating lasting memories.

Overall, this photo encapsulates the essence of happiness and togetherness, making it
a cherished memory that always makes me warm.

Part 3
1. Do people take more photos now than before?

44 / 116
In the age of smartphones and social media, people are certainly taking more photos
than ever before. With the modern convenience of having a high-quality camera in our
pockets -our phones- it's become a natural habit to document our lives, from the
mundane to the extraordinary. We're capturing moments that we might have
overlooked in the past. However, it's also worth noting that the sheer volume of
photos can sometimes dilute the value of each individual image.

2. Do you think equipment is important to photography?

Equipment undoubtedly plays a crucial role in really professional photography, but I
believe it's not the only factor that determines the quality of a photograph. While a
professional camera with the right lenses can produce stunning results, a skilled
photographer can create compelling images even with more modest equipment or just
with their phone. What truly matters is the photographer's understanding of
composition, lighting, and the ability to capture a story or emotion within a frame.

3. Do you think being a professional photographer is a good job?

Being a professional photographer can be a rewarding career for those who are
passionate about it. However, it's a highly competitive field with its challenges.
Success often depends on not only artistic talent but also business acumen and
marketing skills. It can be a good job for those who are willing to put in the effort to
build their brand and clientele, but it may not be suitable for everyone.

Describe a drawing/painting you enjoy looking at.

You should say:
When you first saw this drawing/painting
What the drawing/painting was about
Who drew/painted it
And explain how you feel about this drawing/painting

One of the most captivating drawings I've had the pleasure of enjoying is a
remarkable piece of art titled "Starry Night" by the renowned Dutch artist Vincent van
Gogh. I first encountered this masterpiece during a visit to the Museum of Modern Art
(MoMA) in New York City a few years ago.

"Starry Night" depicts a serene and dreamlike scene with a small village nestled under
a swirling night sky filled with stars. The cypress trees in the foreground twist and
turn, seemingly dancing with the night breeze. The stars, painted in vibrant and
swirling patterns, dominate the canvas, creating a mesmerizing sense of movement
and wonder.

Vincent van Gogh, the brilliant yet troubled artist, is the creative genius behind this
extraordinary painting. His bold and expressive use of color and texture in "Starry
Night" has always left me in awe of his artistic prowess and emotional depth.

45 / 116
Every time I gaze upon this painting, I feel a profound sense of calm and wonder. It's
as if I'm transported into van Gogh's world, where the night sky becomes a canvas for
the expression of deep emotions. The vivid colors and swirling patterns seem to
capture the essence of a starry night's enchantment, filling me with a sense of
tranquility and appreciation for the beauty, and strangeness, of the universe.

In summary, "Starry Night" by Vincent van Gogh is a masterpiece that I find endlessly
captivating. It's not merely a painting; it's a visual symphony of emotions that stirs my
soul every time I have the privilege of looking at it. And it’s so much better to see it
there, in person, in the museum, on the wall, rather than how we often see paintings
these days, on our computer or mobile phones screens. Seeing a painting for real in a
gallery is a much more profound experience.

Part 3
1. Why do some people keep a painting for a long time?
Some individuals keep a painting for a long time because it holds sentimental value or
represents a cherished memory. Paintings can evoke emotions and serve as a timeless
reminder of significant life events. The visual beauty and personal significance of the
artwork provide a lasting connection to the past. Other people, namely collectors, may
keep paintings for a long time with the hope that they will increase in value and sell at
a higher price in an auction in the future. Or simply for the pride of keeping an
expensive painting to themselves - something treasured, something coveted,
something that everybody will like to have if they can afford it. There are also always
people like that in the world of collectors.

2. Do you think it is important for children to learn painting at school?

Learning painting at school is crucial for children as it fosters creativity,
self-expression, and aesthetic appreciation. It helps them develop fine motor skills and
encourages artistic thinking, which can benefit them in various aspects of life.
Moreover, exposing children to the world of art broadens their horizons and
encourages them to explore their inner creativity.

3. Why do some people attach importance to home decoration?

Home decoration is important to many because it allows individuals to create a space
that reflects their personality, style, and interests. It contributes to a sense of comfort,
identity, and well-being. A thoughtfully decorated home becomes a sanctuary,
enhancing the overall quality of life and providing a welcoming environment for both
residents and guests.

4. Do you think the objects we use in our daily lives should be beautifully designed?
Beautifully designed objects in our daily lives enhance not only aesthetics but also
functionality. Well-designed products often improve user experiences, making tasks
more efficient and enjoyable. Design plays a significant role in shaping our

46 / 116
interactions with everyday objects, elevating the mundane into enjoyable and efficient
experiences.

Describe a piece of clothing you wear most often.

You should say:
What it is
How often you wear it
What it is like
And explain why you enjoy wearing it

An item of clothing that I wear the most often is a t-shirt with a picture of a bear on it.
That may sound a bit strange, but let me tell you about it. When I was a teenager, I
was given a grey T-shirt with this picture of a cartoon bear on it. I instantly loved it
and I’ve had it ever since. Yes, for over ten years now. I have been wearing it in the
home all that time, and it’s still in good condition, and it still fits me. It’s the item of
clothing I almost always wear at home, especially when I’m in bed or studying in my
bedroom. I’m so attached to it! I used to wear it when I went out, but now I don’t.
Sometimes in the summer I wear it when I walk the dog in the community garden, but
if I go out to meet friends, or engage in activities or things like that, then I don’t wear
it anymore. It’s basically my go-to item for wearing around the home. I enjoy wearing
it both because it is comfortable, and because it has great sentimental value. And, I
must say, I’m pretty surprised that it’s still in good condition and has not fallen apart
or developed any holes despite having been washed countless times. The picture of
the bear on the front has faded somewhat, but I see that as part of the charm.

Part 3
1. When do people wear formal clothes?
People today can be a bit more relaxed than in the past when it comes to wearing
formal clothes. Well.. I think so anyway. It really depends. Generally speaking, formal
clothes are worn for job interviews, weddings, special company dinners and events,
and …. I can’t think of any more occasions really. Usually, most people go to work in
fairly casual clothes these days – especially if they do not work in customer-facing
roles. Some business people need to wear formal clothes pretty much all the time –
those that have to meet clients on a regular basis.

2. What is the difference between the clothes of the elderly and the young people in
China?
Older people don’t tend to follow fashions like younger people. Older people are
more focused on what looks presentable and comfortable, rather than what is
fashionable and trendy. Young people can even sacrifice comfort for fashion – you
know, wearing designer shoes and high heels that are not actually very comfortable or
good for our feet, but look really cool and ‘with the times’. Older people are more
pragmatic about what they wear, in general.

47 / 116
3. When do people in your country wear traditional clothes?
People in my country don’t tend to wear their national traditional costumes and
clothes very often. I mean, if you wear a qipao (the traditional Chinese female dress),
people might think that you work as a waitress in a restaurant! This is a bit sad, as the
qipao is a very elegant and sexy item of clothing. There are some minorities who still
wear their traditional dress though, mainly in countryside locations. And some monks
will wear traditional Buddhist clothing and robes.

4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of wearing a uniform at work and
school?
A uniform has the advantage of making all the people at work or school look the same,
look equal, and look conservative. This can give a unified, good impression of a
company or school, and a sense of strong identity to those working there and the
institution itself. The disadvantages, according to some people, might be that a
uniform stamps out individual style and personality, and makes everyone look too
much the same. And this can be uninspiring, especially if you want to encourage
innovation, personal flair and creativity in a workforce or body of students.

Describe an invention that is useful in your daily life.

You should say:
What the invention is
What it can do
How popular it is
And explain whether it is difficult or easy to use

Whenever asked to describe an invention everyone says the computer… but I think
that’s pretty boring, to be fair. We all tend to forget about the other, more important
and essential inventions that have literally transformed the way we live. For this
reason, I’d like to talk about the fridge. Yes, the refrigerator! It’s so easy to take for
granted because today everyone has one, but going back just one generation, everyone
didn’t have one, and go back two or more generations and they didn’t even exist.
Imagine living life without a means of effectively storing perishable food for days…
It sounds simple, I know, but the fridge is what really makes such a huge difference to
our home life, and it also saves us a tremendous amount of time. Food, especially in
the peak of summer, can be stored for days and kept fresh – especially things like
meat or fish which will most certainly go bad very quickly in hot weather. Did you
know that the amount of food-related sickness has declined massively since every
household, restaurant and shop started using fridges? As soon as a piece of meat is
taken from a cold environment it will start to gather all sorts of bacteria, and begin to
go off… to go bad. And when the bacteria take hold inside the meat, or fish, if you eat
it the chances of getting sick increase significantly. So, properly refrigerated and
stored food has been a huge thing for humanity. Not to be dismissed. Today fridges

48 / 116
are not just popular, they are ubiquitous. We don’t even consider not needing a fridge.
It’s just one of those things everyone buys. And.. many families buy two fridges – you
know how people in my country love their food! It’s so easy to use as well – basically
you just plug a fridge into the electricity, and it works – it uses a mechanism and a
special motor and liquid, I think, it keeps the ‘box’ cool. All you need to do is ensure
you set the temperature correctly. Apart from that, it’s an item that literally anyone can
use without any hassle at all.

Part 3
1. What qualities do inventors have?
I think inventors usually have a very creative and innovative mind, as well as one
which is very detail-focused and scientific. An inventor needs to have a combination
of passion, scientific knowledge, and a creative ambition and desire. I think that’s
traditionally the case, anyway. Nowadays a lot of inventions are based on computers
and programming so maybe the personality-type of an inventor today is rather
different, I’m not sure.

2. Do all inventions bring benefits to our world?

Certainly not – I mean, it’s very clear that some inventions like the nuclear bomb, are
not at all beneficial to humanity – or, at the very least, they have significant
down-sides which we cannot ignore. One of the latest debates is the invention of AI
(artificial intelligence) – and the huge step that AI has recently taken – people are
actively debating whether this could lead to machines not only taking our jobs, but
possibly even threatening our existence. So, every invention can have its downsides
too, I guess.

3. Do you think people who haven’t been educated in school can invent things?
I think they certainly can. Some people are just smart and very autonomous – they can
learn things themselves. I remember seeing a short documentary not long ago about a
Chinese man who invented a kind of submarine and actually managed to sail it
underwater down a river! I mean, he had never been to school, but had learned about
mechanics and engineering and science all by himself, through sheer interest,
determination and passion.

4. Do you think only scientists can invent new things?

No. I think that all sorts of different people are capable of inventing things. If you
look at some of the most successful inventors, or let’s say ‘innovators’ of our times,
they are not all scientists, they are people with great imaginations, desire and passion
and determination, and they usually are able to garner the support of the scientific
community as well. Inventing today is very much a shared endeavor which is often
inspired by an individual, but created by a team.

5. What inventions do you think should be improved?

Well.. I think that one of the main things that really needs improving today, are

49 / 116
batteries – yes, batteries. We are constantly charging our phones, computers, and now
cars. Batteries do not actually last that long – they do not store electricity for long
enough really, and this makes it quite inconvenient. We are constantly having to
charge up our items. And, so, I think one of the most important inventions of our time
that needs improving, is the life of batteries. If batteries could last much longer, then
cars, computers and phones would not need charging every day!

6. Are there any other inventions that make the world better?
Inventions related to medical care, medical advances, and climate – those are the most
important inventions today that would make the world a better place. The primary
concerns on earth should be looking after the health of people and the planet. Because
without a healthy population and a healthy living environment, then we have no
secure base from which to invent other things!

Describe a book you have read many times.

You should say:
What the book is about
How often you read this book
Why you have read it for many times
And explain what effect this book had on you

There is one book that I’ve read quite a few times, and I will no doubt read it again.
An old book, a classic book, you might say, called The Count of Monte Cristo. It’s a
big, thick book actually. But, I have to admit, I have an abridged version of it – you
know, a shortened, slightly simplified version – but it’s still a big book! It’s the story
of a man who was unfairly imprisoned, and how he coped with his imprisonment, and
how he eventually escaped from prison. It’s a great story, and I really enjoy that kind
of novel – you know, a person managing to escape and find freedom after being
treated so badly. Then, of course, he goes on to take revenge against the man who ‘set
him up’ to get imprisoned in the first place, many years later. I have read this story
multiple times over the years, and every so often I feel the urge to read it again. I
think it’s because I like the idea of someone good-hearted finding justice, or creating
justice for themselves after being downtrodden and treated really unfairly. It’s like a
feeling of great victory you get from the story. And now that I know what’s going to
happen in the end, it does not spoil the story at all, in fact, it makes it even more
exciting for me. So, I think I’ve read it so many times because I somehow, deep inside,
need that motivation, need to remember that however bad life can be sometimes, if
you are strong-willed and kind-hearted and determined, you can prevail – good can
prevail over evil – justice will prevail over injustice. So, this book has had a strong
impact on me and continues to do so

Part 3
1. What kinds of books do children like to read?

50 / 116
Children like to read books about magical things really. Magical lands, heroes with
magical powers and fantasy in general. I am not sure why kids love this kind of thing
– perhaps it is because they have really creative minds and enjoy indulging in fantasy
and things which are not possible in the real world. I, personally, think it’s a great
thing, even though they may learn some pretty strange vocabulary from this genre. I
mean, sometimes you find that young children have a wider vocabulary about magic
and fantasy than they do about things in the real world!

2. What can children learn from books?

Children can learn a tremendous amount from books. Firstly, they learn language, and
they learn reading and spelling and grammar and the mechanics of language. But, also,
they learn about stories – they learn about how stories evolve, and how characters
behave, and how that creates changes in their lives. For example, stories are all about
people (or maybe personified animals or objects), and how people interact, how they
go through challenges, and how they find solutions to problems. Most stories follow
this typical kind of arc. I think there is a lot that children learn from these story arcs,
these plots, and that can help them understand life better, too.

3. Do people prefer e-books or paper books in your country?

People, for the most part, prefer e-books, but paper books are still popular. Years ago,
when e-books first came out, along with the ability to read books on our phones and
tablets, and other devices, people really believed that we would see the complete
disappearance of paper books within a matter of years. Yet, ten years have gone by,
and paper books are still popular – people are still buying them for their studies, for
their children, and for their own personal reading enjoyment. Of course, a lot of
people do prefer e-books for sheer convenience, and e-books have certainly become
quite dominant, but perhaps not as dominant as we all thought they would become
when they first came out.

4. Do you think parents reading stories to their children is necessary?

I think it’s necessary yes, and vitally important for childhood development and
learning. Not just in terms of language, but for many reasons. For example, reading
stories to children at bedtime is a wonderful thing that helps them relax and go off
into a pleasant and lovely mental world before they go to sleep – and perhaps even
helps them to have positive dreams. It’s also a way for parents to connect with
children, too, and stories can also carry moral messages that help to educate children
or uplift their spirits and help them think positively about life.

5. Do you think reading books can make people happier?

I believe that reading books can most certainly help children, and people in general,
feel happier. I definitely think so. I think books, even quite tragic and sad stories, can
ultimately contribute to happiness because they enable us to reflect on life, reflect on
how people deal with things, reflect on different times, different situations, and
contemplate how people go about facing and overcoming challenges. All of these

51 / 116
things can give us the necessary mental space for reflection – reading books can be
like stepping out of our own daily lives into another world, but a world where we
learn things, too, that can, in turn, help us in our own lives.

6. Do you think e-books will make people read more?

I believe that e-books already make people read more, yes, simply because they give
people more reading options than before. Not because people will stop reading paper
books, but because people have such easy access to reading materials, that they can
read more often and in more situations than before. Let me give you an example: if
you are on the subway, or any other form of public transport, and you have an hour
commute ahead of you, you can literally just pull out your phone and read a book –
and your phone can store hundreds of books in it too, so you can even pick and
choose what you feel like reading depending on your needs or your mood. For this
reason, e-books most certainly incentivize people to read more often.

Describe a piece of technology you own that you feel difficult to use.
You should say:
What it is
When you got it
How often you use it
And explain how you feel about it

A piece of technology that I own that might be difficult to use is probably my desktop
computer. I know that in some ways a computer is easy to use, but I’ll explain why
mine is quite difficult at first, at least for most people. You see, I bought a special
set-up from the computer market because I am a huge fan of gaming – and the games
I play require a lot of fast memory and a lot of power – so the computer has some top
of the range graphics cards in it, and needs to be set up in a certain way. In fact,
depending on what game I need to play, I need to make some hardware changes –
change certain boards inside for others, and rig up a cooling system. See… it’s
sounding complicated already! So, you see, at first I found this quite hard to get to
grips with and I had to watch a few online videos and ask for some advice along the
way. Then I had to do some very basic programming stuff to set it up – so the whole
thing worked properly. I’m not sure how to explain that process, but anyway. I use the
computer almost daily. When I’ve finished my studies and other things I need to do, I
get going and start playing. I sometimes play games with people from all over the
world and I play these open-world huge fantasy games. My characters are a wizard
and a warrior. I love this one particular game so much – it’s also quite complex to get
used to, but when you know how to play, it’s fantastic – I can spend literally hours on
end playing it. Sometimes my parents get annoyed because I spend so long on my
computer, but to be honest, I’m quite disciplined with my studies, and don’t have
much of an outside social life, so I manage my time pretty well. So, generally my
hobby doesn’t interfere with other important aspects of my life.

52 / 116
Part 3
1. What technological products do people currently use?
People today use tablets and phones as the main tech products, really, moreso than
computers, actually. This is mainly because these technologies have advanced so
much that we can get a lot of work done as well as basic communications through
these tools. When they first came out they were more of a consuming medium – I
mean, you could play games but not really produce anything on them – but now
people write essays, emails, and even use complex graphics and illustration
programmes on their tablets and phones. So, things have advanced a lot in the past ten
years or so.

2. Why do big companies introduce new products frequently?

Big companies need to stay competitive, so they are constantly investing huge
amounts of money in research to stay ahead of the game in their field. So, it’s
essential for competitive reasons to be constantly working on releasing new products
to the market. Secondly, I think it’s a human urge and desire, to be creating new things,
breaking new boundaries, doing new stuff and innovating. I think it’s in our blood. It’s
part of the human spirit – to grow, develop, actualize.

3. Why are people so keen on buying iPhones even though they haven’t changed
much?
People are fashion victims basically. You know, people always want the latest
gimmicks, and advertising has an incredible power over people – phones are always
being made to look cooler and slicker and faster and more cutting-edge, and a lot of
this is image and presentation. Some companies really know how to make their
products look new and appealing and exciting, even though the hardware and
software hasn’t changed that dramatically really. One thing is the constant upgrading
of the phone cameras – people love taking photos with their phones, and every year a
new phone camera is introduced that claims to take sharper, better and more attractive
photos. People are suckers for this kind of thing.

4. Does the development of technology affect the way we study?

Yes, most certainly. The way we study has become way more efficient with the use of
technology, both in terms of reading and research and writing and producing
presentations, essays or reports. So, in general I’d say that our study and work habits
are transformed and improved by technology, and that process keeps on going as
technology advances, computers get faster and more capable. AI is probably the next
horizon in tech developments and advancements which will influence our studies. I’m
not quite sure how yet, but it’s sure to present new developments that make study life
a lot easier and more efficient.

53 / 116
Object:（抽象）
 Describe a rule that is important in your school or at work.
 Describe one area of science (medicine, physics and etc.) that sounds
interesting to you.
 Describe a good advertisement that you think is useful.
 Describe a historical period you want to know more about.
 Describe a movie you watched recently that you felt disappointed about.
 Describe a job you are interested in.
 Describe a sport you enjoy watching.
 Describe a water sport you would like to try in the future.

Describe a rule that is important in your school or at work.

You should say:
What the rule is about
What will happen if people break the rule
Why you think it is important
And explain how you feel about the rule

One of the essential rules in my workplace pertains to punctuality. This rule

emphasizes the importance of arriving on time for work-related meetings, projects,
and daily tasks. If individuals consistently break this rule and arrive late, it can result
in a series of consequences, such as warnings, a negative impact on performance
evaluations, or even eventual termination.

The reason I believe this rule is crucial is that punctuality is a fundamental aspect of
professionalism and efficiency in the workplace. When everyone adheres to a
consistent schedule, it ensures that meetings and collaborative efforts start promptly,
deadlines are met, and overall productivity is enhanced. Moreover, it reflects respect
for colleagues' time and demonstrates a commitment to one's responsibilities.

Personally, I appreciate the punctuality rule because it creates a structured and

organized work environment. It allows me to plan my day effectively, knowing that
meetings and collaborative efforts will begin as scheduled. This rule also fosters a
sense of responsibility and accountability, which are essential qualities for personal
and professional growth.

In conclusion, the rule of punctuality in my workplace is vital for maintaining an

efficient and productive work environment. It highlights the significance of respecting
time, colleagues, and one's duties. I fully endorse this rule, as it contributes to a
positive and successful work culture.

Part 3
1. What rules should people follow when using public transport?

54 / 116
When it comes to using public transport, it's essential for passengers to respect
designated seating, refrain from creating noise disturbances, and adhere to safety
guidelines. These rules not only ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for all, but
also maintain order and safety on public transportation. Adherence to these rules
fosters a sense of communal responsibility and consideration among passengers.

2. Do parents in China ask their children to obey rules?

Parents in China typically emphasize obedience to rules as it instills discipline and
respect for authority in their children. These rules can encompass daily routines,
studying habits, and household chores, teaching kids valuable life skills. Upholding
rules within the family unit establishes a foundation of order and mutual respect.

3. What rules should children follow at home?

Children should follow rules at home related to their safety, like not playing with
sharp objects or using the stove unsupervised. It's equally important to enforce rules
regarding respect, such as using polite language and cleaning up after oneself. These
rules create a secure and respectful environment within the household, helping
children understand the boundaries of safety and courtesy.

4. What are the reasons that make people break rules?

People may break rules due to various reasons, including personal needs, perceived
benefits, or simply a lack of awareness or a very rebellious personality! External
factors like peer pressure or societal norms can also influence rule-breaking behavior.
Understanding the root causes of rule-breaking behavior is essential in devising
strategies to promote adherence and societal order, without obviously becoming too
authoritarian. This can be quite a difficult balance to strike – how much freedom to
give people, compared to how much to force them to adhere to rules. It comes down
to fostering people through education at home and in school, who can have personal
responsibility for their actions and see the value in respecting the wider community.

Describe one area of science (medicine, physics and etc.) that sounds
interesting to you.
You should say:
What it is
When you knew it
How you knew it
And explain why it sounds interesting to you

An area of science that really interests me is geology. I mean, I don’t have a deep
interest in the field to be honest, but I had a collection of interesting stones when I
was a child and I used to look them up in books and learn about where they came
from, how they were formed and things like this. I got quite into it for a time, and I
used to read some National Geographic magazines, so this led me into finding

55 / 116
geography interesting, especially anything related to volcanoes. So, I guess you could
say I am mildly interested in geology and geography and the science behind the earth
and plate tectonics and how physical geography works. I also watch, occasionally,
documentaries, with my grandfather, about natural history and dinosaurs. I think this
kind of fits into the same or a similar area of science really, because we have found a
lot of fossils of dinosaurs and other creatures from millions or billions of years ago, in
stones in mountains and quarries and other areas. So, all in all I’d say that I’m
interested in this field more than any other field really. I’ve never really had an
interest in space, or technology or military science, or physics or chemistry really, or
the kind of things we learn in school. I don’t read about any of these things today –
but when it comes to geology and geography I still have quite an interest. In fact, now
you mention it, I think I’d like to develop this interest a bit more, especially as I enjoy
travelling to natural places. I once visited the karst mountains in Yangshuo, near to
Guilin, and I found this especially fascinating. You can even go into the caves on foot,
or in a boat through some underground rivers and tunnels. I’d love to do this again.

Part 3
1. Why do some children not like learning science subjects at school?
Children may not like learning science subjects at school because they find them
challenging or difficult to understand. Some students might also lack interest in
science due to the teaching methods or curriculum. Another reason might be that
science lessons can be presented in a rather boring way – the heavy theory can be very
off-putting to children. The more interactive and interesting the lessons are, the more
likely children are to be inspired with science classes.

2. Should children be encouraged to learn science?

Yes, children should be encouraged to learn science as it helps develop critical
thinking and problem-solving skills. It also fosters creativity and a deeper
understanding of the world around them. Children should be encouraged by schools
having a good, solid science curriculum with well-equipped labs and the opportunity
to actively and directly engage in experiments themselves. This can, indeed, be
expensive for schools, but is one of the best ways of encouraging and engaging
students in the scientific learning process.

3. Should people be encouraged to learn science after graduation?

Yes, lifelong learning in science should be promoted after graduation to keep
individuals informed about scientific advancements and their applications in daily life.
However, having said that, after graduation students often choose their own paths
according to what they want to do in the future. However, as technology is important
in the advancement of society, I think that there should be sponsorships and
scholarships and other incentives to keep more people learning and wanting to study
science after graduation and at master’s level.

4. How do you get to know about scientific news?

56 / 116
People typically get to know about scientific news through various sources such as
news outlets, scientific journals, social media, and educational programs. With mobile
phones today and ubiquitous internet access, people who are interested in science can
very easily search for the latest science news and there are even apps dedicated to
science and scientific discoveries which cover the latest debates about technological
advancements and all sorts. So, it’s pretty easy today to access information about this
kind of thing if you’re interested.

5. Should scientists explain the research process to the public?

Scientists should indeed explain the research process to the public to a point to
increase transparency and trust. It helps demystify complex scientific concepts and
allows the public to engage more actively in scientific discourse. Research today is
also becoming more transparent and people have a lot more access to interesting
scientific research explained in layman’s terms, too. So this is a good thing and brings
more of the general public into the scientific discourse.

Describe a good advertisement that you think is useful.

You should say:
Where you can see it
What it is about
Why you think it is useful
And explain how you feel about it

I'd like to talk about a remarkable advertisement that I find both compelling and
highly useful. This particular advertisement is featured on television and can also be
found on various social media platforms.

The advertisement is primarily focused on promoting environmental conservation and

sustainable living practices. It centers around a message of responsibility towards the
planet, urging viewers to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt eco-friendly habits.
The narrative unfolds through a visually stunning sequence of scenes showcasing the
beauty of nature, from lush forests to pristine oceans.

What sets this advertisement apart is its ability to evoke emotions and inspire action.
It skillfully combines breathtaking visuals with a poignant, thought-provoking
soundtrack that tugs at the heartstrings. As a viewer, I couldn't help but feel a sense of
urgency and responsibility towards protecting our environment.

The advertisement provides practical tips and easy-to-implement suggestions for

leading a more sustainable lifestyle. From conserving water and energy to reducing
waste and supporting renewable energy sources, it offers a comprehensive guide to
making a positive impact on the planet.

57 / 116
What I find particularly useful about this advertisement is that it doesn't merely
convey a message; it motivates individuals to take tangible steps towards a greener,
more sustainable future. It encourages recycling, reducing single-use plastic, and
supporting eco-friendly products and companies. In essence, it empowers viewers to
be part of the solution.

I feel deeply appreciative of this advertisement's effectiveness in raising awareness

and fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment. It serves as a reminder that
we all have a role to play in preserving our planet for future generations. Whenever I
see this advertisement, it reinforces my commitment to adopting eco-conscious
choices in my daily life, and I believe it serves as a powerful catalyst for positive
change in society.

Part 3
1. How do you feel about online advertising?
I believe online advertising is a powerful tool when used correctly. It can be
informative and relevant when it aligns with the user's interests and needs. However,
excessive or intrusive online advertising can be irritating and counterproductive. I
sometimes think that advertisements online can be quite misleading, – they are less
controlled than those in other media, and so they are more likely to slip through the
net of marketing regulations. However, these things are now being more tightly
controlled, so I think the world of online advertising will be the main source of
advertising for the foreseeable future and will become increasingly reliable.

2. Are there any great online advertisements?

Absolutely, there are many outstanding online advertisements that have creatively
captured viewers' attention. Some successful ones are those that tell compelling
stories or convey a strong message in a short time frame. These are usually very short
videos in which there are either actors or animations, and they can really capture the
imagination of the viewers, especially when they are waiting for a video to load up, or
a TV show to begin. There’s one I think is great, featuring animated animals – it’s a
simple ad for a Chinese wine company, but it’s so funny!

3. Why does buying new things make people happy?

Purchasing new items can elicit happiness because it often represents a sense of
accomplishment, fulfillment of desires, or improvement in one's quality of life.
However, this happiness can be fleeting and depends on the individual's values and
priorities. I, personally, feel that some people get sucked into buying new things as a
way to make themselves happy, but then they become almost addicted to “retail
therapy” – and in the long term they just become materialistic individuals that end up
being a bit shallow. We have to be very careful about these kinds of things.

4. Do people still watch useless advertisements nowadays?

People's tolerance for irrelevant or intrusive advertisements has significantly

58 / 116
decreased with the rise of ad-blockers and fast-forward options. Effective advertising
today should aim to provide value and engage viewers. Yes, people watch a lot of
trash, full stop! And if we are watching a TV series, there can be a lot of commercial
breaks with completely annoying and pointless adverts that, for me, interrupt the
mood of the programme I was watching. In my view most of these are useless and
irritating, so I welcome the dawn of a time when we have more ad-blockers and more
control of advertisements both on TV and in social media.

5. Do you think there is too much advertising in your daily life?

Yes, there is an abundance of advertising in daily life, from television and billboards
to social media. Striking a balance between informative advertising and avoiding
over-saturation is essential to maintain a positive consumer experience. There is
advertising on buses, in elevators, even on the walls of subway tunnels that light up
by the windows as the train whizzes past. You can’t escape them – it’s way too much
in my view.

Describe a historical period you want to know more about.

You should say:
What it is
How you know about this period of history
What you are interested in
And explain why you want to know more about this period

A period in history that I am especially interested in is the time of the pyramids in

Egypt. The ancient Egyptian period, maybe it’s called. I’ve always been fascinated by
that time, and the mysteries that surround it. For example, we don’t really know how
they built the pyramids and the tombs – there are various theories and speculations as
to how they achieved this huge feat of engineering. Also, I love the art work, the
hieroglyphics, the colours, everything about the designs and architecture of the period.
It was quite a brutal period in history though, as are most periods in the past – and if
you were rich and famous, or a king or something, you could live well, but if you
were a slave or a very common man, I imagine life was quite hard, and you were
permanently living with quite strict bosses and landlords. However, this was also a
time when many artisans developed crafts and people started to learn to write and read.
What is also interesting is that Egypt was the first country to record having cats as
domestic animals. They felt that cats were sacred and holy and they also incorporated
cats into their designs, statues and symbols. The famous Sphynx, in Giza, near the
great pyramids, is a combination of a cat and other animals, and was believed to be a
kind of God for the ancient Egyptians. So, yeah, there’s lots of different things about
this period in history that I find very interesting. I think it’s the aesthetics of the era
that interest me the most, and so I’d like to learn more about Egyptian design,
architecture and art work. I think that learning more about art of the period, and the
way they painted and carved images of the people, in that two dimensional way,

59 / 116
marked a very interesting period in the development of art in history. So I’d like to
learn more about that.

Part 3
1. How do children learn history?
Children usually learn about history in school, to be honest, or from programs on
television. We mainly learn about the history of our own country, for the most part,
but we sometimes have classes about world history too. Children should at least
develop a basic understanding of the history of their nation, and its relationships with
others throughout time, and also we can learn from the past, so history is quite
important.

2. Do you think everyone should know about history of their own country?
Yes, I think to some extent that is important yes. It depends on the objectives really. I
mean, if it is to promote a greater understanding of life and help young people to
contribute to making their country better in the future, then I think that’s a very good
reason, and we can also learn from the mistakes and failures as well as the victories
that our country has experienced in the past.

3. Do you think it is hard to protect historical buildings?

It isn’t that hard really, if there is money and funding resources directed to doing so.
But that depends on the decisions of the local governments, I think, and also how
important those buildings are and how expensive they might be to upkeep. I think that
it’s also a case of educating people about the importance of their own heritage.
Protecting old buildings can also bring tourism to a place and inspire interest in places
which maybe people have forgotten about. This, in turn, helps the economy of an area
develop as well.

4. What are the differences between learning history from books and from videos?
Learning history from books, for most people, is quite a tedious and boring
experience. I understand that people like professors and academics enjoy this and are
mentally equipped to really understand what is written in history books. But for
normal people like me, it’s much easier to learn about history from videos and
documentaries where we see bite-sized commentaries about people and places in
history, and a lot of real visuals to go with it. This makes things more interesting and
stimulating and therefore enables people to remember the details more – remembering
is a key part of the learning process.

5. Who should be responsible for protecting historical buildings?

Everyone in different ways should be responsible for protecting historical buildings.
The authorities need to be responsible in terms of providing laws, policies and
funding. And the local community responsible for advocating for those causes and
promoting awareness amongst the population. And everyday people should be
responsible in terms of how they behave when they are in historical sites – like not

60 / 116
damaging them, making donations, picking up litter and generally respecting them.

Describe a movie you watched recently that you felt disappointed about.
You should say:
What this film is about
Who you watched it with
Why you decided to watch it
And explain why you felt disappointed about it

I watched a film a few weeks ago that I expected to be really great, which actually I
found quite boring. It was recommended to me by a friend of mine. I’m not sure how
you’d translate the title to do it justice, but anyway, it has a really catchy and
interesting title in Chinese, and it sounds like it’s going to be a high-paced thriller
adventure detective sort of film. And in some ways I suppose it is. However, it starts
really slowly, and isn’t actually very stimulating – the plot evolves in a way which I
found highly predictable every step of the way, and the romance subplot I found
utterly pathetic – it was weak and lacked the tensions that are usually important in a
good story. All in all, although the acting, costumes, design and the computer graphics
were top notch, I found the story and the dialogue absolutely tedious and really rather
weak. I watched this film with two friends of mine in their flat just outside campus.
They also had been quite excited about it, and had read some good reviews online
about the film. But, like me, they were pretty disappointed by it, and also quite
mystified as to how it had become quite famous and got such good reviews. We
concluded that people’s tastes in movies these days was rather poor and governed
mainly by the headline actors in the film and the technical details and modern filming
and production techniques, more than the story itself or the dialogue. I find this a bit
sad, but I think it’s true.

Part 3
1. Do people read movie reviews before watching movies?
Yes, I think a lot of people do. I don’t think so many people read in-depth reviews or
anything like that – most people read the standard reviews you might see in the
mainstream media. But there are some movie buffs who will read online blogs in
great detail, join movie fan clubs and read specialist reviews about different genres of
films and new releases. Like most things in life, it takes all sorts – there are people
who do things, people who do things in real depth, and people who don’t do certain
things at all!

2. Are historical films popular in your country?

I think that films set in the past are pretty popular in China today. People enjoy
historical fiction, especially set around famous wars and conflicts in ancient history,
and the stories that run parallel to them. I think it gives people a window into their
ancient culture, and also a way of escaping their own everyday modern lives. Older

61 / 116
people tend to enjoy war movies as well, and I think it reminds them of events in their
own past or those of their older family members, and the things they may have lived
through in their early years.

3. Do you think films with famous actors or actresses would be more popular?
Most definitely. I think that films with really famous actors tend to make box office
hits almost every time. There’s a lot of hype surrounding famous people, and the lives
of famous people, and actors are always really interesting in the world of celebrity
gossip as well. They are people who live a life of luxury, a life of fantasy almost, in a
separate kind of world to our own everyday lives, and this makes them very attractive,
and by extension, the movies they are in become popular. Obviously, these movies
also have to have relatively decent plots and production as well, but it’s the actors that
usually market the movies to most audiences, for sure.

4. What kinds of films are popular in your country?

The films that are popular in my country really depend on the generation we are
talking about. Young people and older people have different tastes, and I would say
that younger people like more thriller and romance movies, and older people enjoy
more wartime historical movies. But, again, it really depends. International box office
hits are also very popular with younger people, which are mainly super hero films.
I’m not a huge fan of superhero movies but I know that the majority of young people
today love them.

Describe a job you are interested in.

You should say:
What it is
When you heard about this job for the first time
What qualities it requires
And explain why you are interested in this job

A job that I am really interested in is being a tour guide. I wouldn’t want to do this job
as a permanent career, but I would like to do it for a few summers, to earn some
money and also to enjoy learning and talking about local history. I am a pretty
sociable person, and I enjoy giving talks and things like this, and I am a big fan of
history, and I love walking – so, if you combine all of these things into an ideal
summer job, you get ‘tour guide’! I heard about this job many years ago, I can’t
remember the first time exactly, but the first time I became inspired by it was when I
was in Italy on holiday with my parents and we had a guided tour of beautiful gardens
just outside Rome. The tour guide was a Chinese student living in Rome who spoke
Mandarin Chinese and Italian. She was our guide. She was animated, she spoke
clearly and enthusiastically and it was obvious that she was very knowledgeable about
the gardens, the monuments there, the history and everything. She was clearly
genuinely interested in what she was doing. The sun was shining, and she entertained

62 / 116
us as well as informed us. It struck me at this moment that I would love to do this kind
of job, as I’m pretty extrovert and enjoy being the centre of attention sometimes – you
know, with an audience listening to what I’m saying! And… of course, I need to earn
some money. So, these are all the reasons why I think I would like to do it, and the
qualities I have that I think match the job.

Part 3
1. What kinds of jobs are popular in your country?
The kinds of jobs that are the most popular, career jobs, I’d say are… well, it depends.
I can’t really speak for the whole country, because China is so big and has so much
variety, but the people I know in my university and city tend to want to go into
business, like work for one of the big accounting firms, or work in the marketing of a
huge multinational company, or perhaps even go into a more government role. Some
want to do IT and programming because they think that is going to be the future. But,
to be honest, I don’t want to do any of these things! People have more diverse tastes
and ideas today than in the past, so it’s hard to say.

2. Do people in your country do the same job throughout their whole life?
I think that the older generations do, yes, or did. But today… the days of a job for life
are not quite like they were in the past. I know a lot of younger people who change
jobs, in fact, I think some younger people are too spoilt and change jobs way too often.
I do think that the economic boom of China has spoilt them in some ways, and that if
everything slows down a bit they may have to stick with one job more, be grateful for
it, and be loyal to their company rather than jumping from company to company
searching for a better deal or more superficially appealing job.

3. What kinds of people do low-salary jobs?

Well, generally speaking I think people who have less privileges in terms of family
background and education, end up doing the low-salary jobs. It’s a shame really,
because maybe a lot of these people are actually really capable of doing all sorts of
great things if they had the opportunity. But, to some extent, and this applies to any
country in the world, we are born with certain privileges and if we are from an
economically stronger family, and perhaps living in a place with more work
opportunities and connections, then we will already have a head start. So, the lower
salaried jobs are usually done by people who do not have such a privileged
background or good education.

4. Do you think universities should arrange classes for students, to teach them how
to find jobs?
I think that there should be some form of more formal career advice, most certainly.
Classes, I’m not sure, but definitely a career advice service that will listen to you and
recommend avenues that will suit your personality and qualifications and experience.
There is something like this in my university, but it’s not really taken very seriously. I
think that there should be a proper dedicated service that does this, not for profit, but

63 / 116
for helping students get ahead and start really thinking about what they want to do and
where the market is for those jobs. I think young people can feel quite lost in this
regard, or pressured by their parents, who are frankly not always in tune with the
latest job market trends. So, there certainly should be something provided by
universities to help students find and prepare for future careers and jobs.

5. If they do, what kinds of skills should students learn in such classes?
I think that if such classes did exist they should include lessons about how to match
your skills and abilities with your ambitions and desires. One thing I find is that a lot
of students are a bit disillusioned – they are not necessary good at the kinds of jobs
they want to do – they are looking at their dreams, but not really considering how
their own skills might align with those dreams. Another useful lesson would be one in
job interview preparation techniques… and, of course, writing a good and honest CV
or resume.

6. When do you think is the right time for young people to start making plans for
their future careers?
Well, I suppose the right time to start thinking about this would be in university, and
the right time to really start making an effort to put these thoughts into action would
be perhaps in the final year of university. By then I think students have a good idea if
they really are suitable and equipped to do what they previously had in mind, and can
start to more realistically plan a possible career path, or explore a few options and
decide which seems the most feasible. So, yeah, as a general rule I’d say there are two
stages to this: thinking about what you might want to do and tentatively finding out
what you can about it, in the first years of university, and then actually starting to take
more concrete actions in the final year.

Describe a sport you enjoy watching.

You should say:
What it is
When you watched it for the first time
Who you often watch it with
And explain how you feel when you watch it

A sport I really enjoy watching is tennis. I know that perhaps sounds quite normal.
I’m not sure what you think… but I love tennis. It’s something that has increased in
popularity in my country during the last ten years or so, and somehow has become
more popular in the mainstream. I first watched tennis at a live match on the campus
of a friend’s university in Beijing. I was visiting a mate who studied there, and she
asked me to come along and watch her and some friends play tennis. I’d never really
watched a game before. It was a bright sunny day. My mate’s campus is really
beautiful, too. I had such a nice day – I sat with some of her friends, people I had not
met before, and they shared some soft drinks and snacks in the interval, they chatted

64 / 116
to me, they told me the rules of the game… and that day, quite honestly, was a turning
point. I just felt so attracted to tennis and the whole culture that surrounds it. I soon
got involved in the tennis club there, made a whole new set of friends, and then
started following tennis on TV, national tennis, and international tennis, and following
celebrity players from all over the world on social media. I just love the game. So,
there we are – now I watch it at every possible opportunity. But, to be quite honest, I
am much more into playing the game at my local tennis club than watching it on TV –
yeah, I do watch it on TV, like I said, but my main interest is playing it with other
members of the club and competing with them and striving to improve with my
instructor helping me. I love watching live matches at the club, especially during the
summer months – tennis is such a thrilling and exciting game, can be really fast, can
be really dynamic, and highly competitive. It’s a wonderful sport.

Part 3
1. What type of exercise do people in your country often do?
It depends what types of people you’re talking about. People exercise in different
ways. Older people often go to the park, do some dancing or use these simple exercise
machines in their communities. Young people do all sorts – they go to the gym, they
play basketball, football or other competitive sports… other people like to go jogging,
or cycling or … there are lots of popular activities that people do here – pretty much
the same as anywhere in the world.

2. Do you think children should receive education in school about keeping fit and
healthy?
Yes, I believe they should, at least to a certain extent. In physical education class they
usually learn about the value of exercise and do some basic sports. At the same time
there is usually a bit of education about healthy foods and eating habits. I think that
most schools try to promote these kinds of things, to one degree or another.

3. What can be done to make children into doing sports?

I think that children already have a natural disposition towards taking part in games
and sports. At least a lot of children. I think that they enjoy collaborative games,
where they work together with other children towards a common goal – you know,
like team games with a certain element of competition. Children like a bit of
competition and it gives them a challenge. Healthy competition is a positive incentive
to get children to do more sports. I also think that making sports fun, not too serious,
also helps encourage more children to join in. Like I say, ‘healthy competition’ –
which means not too competitive to exclude the less sporty kids, but not too ‘free’
either, to mean that nobody takes the games seriously.

4. What’s the difference between watching sports on TV and watching it live?

Well, there’s quite a big difference. From the point of view of experience, viewing
experience, watching a match or game live in person is much more exciting, as you
get to be a part of the spirit of the game along with all the other audience members

65 / 116
who are inevitably getting excited supporting their teams, and so on. There’s a
particular atmosphere at sporting events when they are live that can’t be replaced by
televised sports. On the other hand, watching sport on TV is more convenient, of
course, because you don’t have to leave your home. You can be more comfortable and
certainly it’s much less hassle to turn on the TV and watch a game, rather than go in
person, wait in a queue, pay a lot for tickets, and be in thick crowds of people. So,
yeah, it’s quite a different experience on many levels.

Describe a water sport you would like to try in the future.

You should say:
What it is
What you need to do this sport
Why you want to learn this sport
And explain whether it is difficult or easy to learn this sport

A water sport that I would really like to try is jet-skiing. I’ve seen it on TV and I’ve
seen people do it in Hainan at sea, but I’ve never had the chance to do it myself. A
jet-ski is a kind of a motorized machine that you sit on – it has a seat, and handlebars
like a bike, I suppose, and instead of a front wheel it has two skis. The motor is
located at the back. When you sit on the jet-ski, and get it started, you basically move
quickly across the water, as if you’re in a speedboat, really, and steer the jet-ski,
making it go faster by turning the handle on the handlebars, very much like you would
on a motorbike. It looks really really fun, and people say it’s not so hard. At least it
seems easier than surfboarding, and it’s really fast too, or can be when you feel
confident enough to go at speed. I’ve seen a lot of people doing it, and it looks so cool
how the jet-ski can shoot across the waves even when the sea isn’t very calm. Often
you wear a wet-suit or a swimming costume because it’s inevitable that you fall off, at
least the first few times you try. I believe that when you hire a jet-ski, you also get an
hour of instruction from a qualified trainer too, so you do learn the basics of how to
get it going, how to steer, and what to do when you fall off, and how to get started
again. I can’t imagine it’s too hard to get to grips with because I’ve seen quite a few
young people and even kids of about 12 years old, doing it. I hope to do it this
summer if we go to Hainan on holiday – I’m planning a trip there with a bunch of
friends, you see.

Part 3
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of water transport?
Transport... well… that’s rather different to water sports. Transport is a necessary
thing on water if you live somewhere where there are islands, I suppose. For example,
I had a friend who lived on Lama Island outside Hong Kong, and you have to take a
boat, a ferry, actually, from Hong Kong to the island. There are a few islands around
there like that. A disadvantage of water transport is that it’s quite slow, a lot slower
than travelling by air or road, at least most of the time. Although, if you live on an

66 / 116
island you don’t have much choice!

2. What are the popular water sports in your country?

The most popular water sports are probably the simple ones that people do on holiday
– snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, and of course, swimming. Some people get involved
in sailing clubs and things like this, but mainly people who live near the sea and who
have a lot of time and money – sailing is seemingly a really cool and interesting
hobby, but something that takes time, and energy and a certain level of expertise. So, I
think the main types of water sports that most of us are familiar with are the more
everyday fun things you get to do when on vacation. I’m not sure what water sports
are really amazingly popular in China – to be quite honest it’s not something I know
an awful lot about, because most of my friends live in-land, and when we go on
holiday to the seaside we usually just play on the sandy beaches and sunbathe and
stuff like this, maybe do a bit of snorkeling.

3. Do you think schools should teach children how to swim?

I most certainly do. I think it’s important that children learn to swim, not just because
it can be a life-saver if they ever fall in water, but because it’s great exercise for the
mind and the body. Also, I have to say, kids usually find water really exciting, and
love playing in swimming pools, and, of course, if they can swim it means they are a
lot safer and get the most out of these activities without the parents worrying about
them being in danger. So, yes, for a few reasons I think that it’s good that children
learn to swim.

4. Are there many people in your country often go diving?

There are some people who learn to dive and go diving, but not many. Serious divers
learn to dive and get a special open water certificate. I think that’s what it’s called.
You know, proper diving with the aqualung oxygen tank apparatus on their back that
enables them to breathe underwater. I heard that in Beijing you can actually learn in
the Beijing aquarium, in the main huge tank – that sounds really cool actually. Then
after you get your first certificate you are qualified to go diving in open water at sea,
with an instructor, of course. I know there’s quite a few safety rules surrounding
diving. So, it’s not hugely popular with the majority of people but there are niche
groups of enthusiasts that do it and take it very seriously.

67 / 116
Place:
 Describe a place in your country that you think is interesting.
 Describe a park or garden in your city.
 Describe a beautiful city you have visited.
 Describe a new shop that recently opened in your city/town.
 Describe a house that you would like to have.
 Describe a place you went to where there are a lot of people.
 Describe a place far away from your home and you want to visit it in the
future.

Describe a place in your country that you think is interesting.

You should say：
Where it is
How you knew it
What special features it has
And explain you are interested in it

A place in my country that I find fascinating on a number of levels is a mountainous

area in southeastern Fujian province, home to the Hakka minority. I’ve visited there
several times with a photographer friend of mine, who was the person who introduced
me to the area, and each time I go back I learn a little more about it, and come to
appreciate it more and more

I particularly like the Fujian Tulou, which are called “roundhouses” in English, I think.
They aren’t so much houses though – they are more like huge round structures with
houses or apartments inside them. It’s pretty hard to describe without a photo to show
you really. They are really impressive, anyway, and I have visited and stayed in a
couple of them, and got to know some of the families who still live there. These
structures were built between the 12th and 20th century, originally as a way of
protecting people from outside attack or invasion. Today, of course, this isn’t a risk,
but you still experience a strong sense of community when you stay in a roundhouse
and it’s fascinating to observe the social dynamics between the families living there. I
would say that I’ve made some good friends there and I will always go back. I also
love the hot climate in that region of my country and find it is very conducive to
creative arts like photography.

Part 3
1. Do people in different regions of your country have different personalities?
People in different regions of my country can indeed exhibit somewhat different
personalities. This can often be attributed to cultural and environmental factors. For
example, individuals from coastal regions may have a more relaxed and easygoing
demeanor, influenced by their proximity to the sea, while those from urban areas

68 / 116
might display a more fast-paced and competitive personality due to the bustling city
life.

2. Do you think a great tourist city is a good place for living?

A city that's a popular tourist destination may not necessarily be the best place for
living. Tourist cities often have higher living costs and congestion, which can lead to
various challenges like traffic congestion and inflated property prices. What tourists
find attractive, like vibrant nightlife and historical sites, might not align with the
needs of a permanent resident looking for a quieter, more affordable place to call
home.

3. Why do some people believe that small towns are more suitable for living than
big cities?
Some people believe that small towns are more suitable for living because they offer a
slower pace of life, closer-knit communities, and a stronger sense of belonging and
safety. Small towns often have less traffic, lower crime rates, and a lower cost of
living, making them appealing for those seeking a quieter and more affordable
lifestyle.

4. Do you think only youngsters like trying new things? What about people of your
parents’ age?
Trying new things isn't exclusive to youngsters; people of all ages have a propensity
for exploration and new experiences. While the intensity and nature of these
explorations might vary with age, many individuals from older generations also
embrace novel activities and challenges. The desire to learn and grow doesn't
diminish with age, and my parents' generation, for example, often expresses a keen
interest in trying new hobbies or embarking on fresh adventures.

Describe a park or garden in your city.

You should say:
Where it is
When you often go there
What you often do there
And explain what it is like

I'd like to describe a beautiful park in my city called Green Haven Park. It's located in
the heart of the city, just a short drive away from my home, making it a convenient
escape from the bustling urban life.

I find myself visiting Green Haven Park quite often, especially during weekends or
whenever I need a break from my busy schedule. It's a peaceful oasis amidst the urban
chaos, and I often go there to unwind, relax, and recharge.

69 / 116
When I'm at Green Haven Park, I usually engage in various activities. I love taking
leisurely walks along the well-maintained pathways, surrounded by lush greenery and
vibrant flowers. Sometimes, I bring a good book with me and I find a quiet bench to
read and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Many people also gather here for picnics, and I
often join my friends or family for a delightful picnic amidst nature's beauty.

Green Haven Park is like a breath of fresh air in the city. The park is beautifully
landscaped with manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and a serene lake at its center.
There are plenty of tall trees that provide ample shade, making it a perfect spot to
escape the scorching summer heat. It's a popular destination for families, joggers, and
nature enthusiasts and students with their romantic partners.

In conclusion, Green Haven Park is a cherished gem in our city. Its tranquil ambiance,
lush green surroundings, and various recreational activities make it a delightful place
to visit. It's a place where I can connect with nature, relax, and create wonderful
memories with my loved ones.

Part 3
1. Do you think people should keep parks and gardens clean?
Absolutely, it's crucial for people to maintain the cleanliness of parks and gardens.
These spaces are not only for our enjoyment but also for the benefit of the
environment and the community as a whole, and as urban development increases and
cities expand and become busier, it’s even more important that people have quiet,
beautiful and natural spaces in which to spend time alone or with friends or family.

2. Are public parks or gardens popular among people who live in cities?
Yes, public parks and gardens are quite popular among city dwellers. They offer a
breath of fresh air, a break from the urban hustle and bustle, and a place for various
recreational activities. A lot of people in China enjoy parks – I’d say that it’s part of
the culture, in a way, especially for elderly people – it used to be a common sight to
see old people practicing Tai Ji, dancing and doing all sorts of sporting activities in
parks to keep fit. Occasionally, you’ll also see people playing musical instruments,
practicing calligraphy and playing Chinese chess. The traditional park in China was a
real centre of activity and community – you can still see this kind of thing if you go to
Kungming and places down south where the weather is warmer.

3. Why do some people like growing vegetables?

Some people enjoy growing vegetables as it connects them with nature and provides a
source of fresh, organic produce. It's also a rewarding hobby that promotes
self-sufficiency. I am not sure if that many young people like growing vegetables, but
I do know that a hobby of certain middle class young people and families, that has
sprung up in more recent years, is having a small plot of land out of town and having
your own mini-farm for fruits and vegetables; or simply going to such farms and
picking fruit and veg with your family – for an entrance fee, of course.

70 / 116
4. Do you think people of all ages like to go to parks?
Parks appeal to people of all ages. They offer diverse activities, from playgrounds for
children to walking paths and quiet spots for adults. Parks are inclusive and cater to
everyone's needs. I’d say, as I mentioned earlier, that the traditional Chinese park is
perhaps more popular with older people, but I wouldn’t say it was exclusively for the
elderly – lots of young people and families also enjoy parks, and parks with lakes
often have boats and other activities as well as eateries and all sorts of entertainment
facilities. So, in general, I’d say yes people of all ages go to parks.

5. What do old people like to do in parks?

Elderly individuals often appreciate the tranquility of parks. They might engage in
activities like leisurely walks, bird-watching, or simply enjoying the greenery, which
can have a calming and nostalgic effect. However, as I touched upon earlier, the main
activities for the elderly in parks in my country are dancing, tai ji and martial arts, and
perhaps getting some exercise on exercise machines – playing chess on low stone
tables, and practicing calligraphy.

Describe a beautiful city you have visited.

You should say:
Where the city is
When you went there
Why you went there
And explain why it is beautiful

I had the pleasure of visiting Venice, Italy, a city renowned for its timeless beauty.
Venice is located in northeastern Italy, situated on a group of 118 small islands
separated by canals and linked by bridges. I visited Venice in the summer of 2019
during my European tour, attracted by its unique charm and rich history.

The reason for my visit was to explore Venice's iconic canals, historic architecture,
and vibrant culture. Venice is famous for its intricate network of canals, and I wanted
to experience the city's unparalleled beauty by taking a gondola ride through these
picturesque waterways. Additionally, I was eager to visit landmarks like St. Mark's
Square, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge, all of which showcase the city's rich
history and architectural marvels.

Venice's beauty lies in its romantic canals, grand architecture, and enchanting
atmosphere. As I navigated the narrow waterways on my gondola, I was captivated by
the stunning Venetian Gothic and Renaissance buildings that line the canals, each
displaying intricate details and rich history. The reflection of these beautiful structures
in the waters of the canals created a surreal and magical ambiance. Venice's unique
character, blending history, art, and natural beauty, and romance, make it one of the

71 / 116
most beautiful cities I have ever visited.

Part 3
1. Why do some like to visit historical cities?
People are drawn to historical cities because they offer a window into the past,
allowing us to connect with different eras and cultures. Exploring the remnants of
ancient civilizations and witnessing the architectural marvels of bygone times is not
only educational but also spiritually enriching. Of course, there are other people that
visit historical sites because… that’s just what you do when you go on holiday.

2. Do you think it is hard to protect historical buildings?

Protecting historical buildings can be challenging due to factors like natural decay,
urban development, and the need for maintenance. There are many different things to
consider when working with historic buildings – like modern urban planning, the
aesthetic clashes of new developments and buildings of historic interest in the same
areas, and issues of transportation networks, residential areas, and whether an area
should, or should not, be developed for tourism. These are quite complex issues to
grapple with.

3. Who should be responsible for protecting historical buildings?

It often requires the concerted efforts of governments, preservation societies, and the
local community to ensure the preservation of these valuable landmarks. It's a
collective responsibility. But, like I said before, it involves many different experts
really, to take on this collective duty, because there are multiple complex, and often
clashing priorities and considerations that go into the protection of historic buildings,
especially those in the heart of cities.

4. Do you think those tall buildings in cities look similar?

Tall buildings in cities may share similarities in terms of architecture and design,
especially if they are part of a modern urban development project. However,
architects often strive to incorporate unique elements and styles into their designs to
create distinctive structures. So, while they may have some similarities, there are
usually distinguishing features that set them apart.

Describe a new shop that recently opened in your city/town.

You should say:
Where the shop is
What it sells
What kinds of people usually go to this shop
And explain how successful you think it will be in the future

Oh, this is interesting, because only a month or so ago a new shop opened not far
from where I live, and I think it’s a really interesting shop. It’s a shop that sells

72 / 116
musical instruments – mainly guitars. It’s down a little side street, off the busy main
road. The shop is run by a young man with a beard who is an amazing guitarist and
quite a ‘cool’ hipster-type person. He also plays other instruments, like the clarinet
and the flute. The shop has a whole selection of guitars from acoustic guitars, to all
sorts of different electric guitars. I have been in several times already, because I play
the guitar and this guy was really chatty when I first visited – he said it was fine if I
wanted to drop in, drink tea with him and listen to music and even play a little bit. So,
I started to go there and have built up a sort of friendship with him really – the owner,
that is. His friends also seem to hang out there – they’re all ‘arty musical type people’
and often they chat about a whole range of things related to the world of music and
performing arts. It’s so interesting and relaxing to hang out there. The other people
who visit the shop, random customers, seem to be similar to the owner and his friends:
young, alternative people who are into music. I think this shop could be moderately
popular in future. I don’t think it’s going to be a huge, booming business, but I think
it’s going to be successful and popular with this niche crowd of young people in the
city, yes.

Part 3
1. What kinds of shops are popular in your city?
I’d say the most popular shops in my city today are probably places that sell food,
drinks and snacks mainly, and perhaps clothing stores, brand-named clothing stores. I
think that a lot of other shops have closed down due to the increasing popularity of
online shopping – which, in a way, is a big shame because I don’t like the idea of our
cities turning into mainly residential places with a few restaurants and not much else.
So, yeah, anyway, the most popular shops today that remain are definitely those that
sell food products, and branded clothing and accessories.

2. Why do young people enjoy shopping in boutiques?

Young people are increasingly attracted to shopping in boutiques, because I think
they’re getting tired of the popular high-street brands of clothing and accessories and
they want something more unique and original. Boutique stores offer a more
individual flavour, and I can see a lot more young people today wanting to express a
more original and unique taste. This is the main reason why, I reckon, boutiques are
becoming more popular.

3. Do you think location is the key factor that determines the volume of customers?
I think location, as most business studies experts will agree, is one of the most
important, if not the most important, factor in determining the success of a business.
Of course, it depends on other related factors, as well, like what the core product is,
whether that product is popular anyway, or whether there is a likely market for it.
However, today there is a big shift going on in the consumer products market, where
online purchasing has most certainly taken over. This ends up superseding ‘location’
as an important factor, of course, because the goods can be delivered to the customer
directly. But, yeah, in terms of traditional business, location is a key factor – you’ve

73 / 116
got to sell a product in an area where the main demographic who are likely to buy
your product, frequent in significant numbers.

4. Are there any methods to improve the popularity of shops?

There are all sorts of ways to improve a shop’s popularity. Firstly, standard marketing
strategies tend to work – from advertising, to having an attractive and inviting
window display and a quality design. Secondly, having sales and discounts can be a
way to bring in more customers. Another method might be to offer something unique
and different that is likely to turn heads, make people curious, and then inspire wider
interest. I heard recently that one shop launched a competition (advertised in the
window and online) and the winner gets to have a designer handbag made for them
with their name sewn onto the strap. That marketing strategy attracted literally
thousands of people, which really put the store on the map!!

Describe a house that you would like to have.

You should say:
What it is like
Where it would be
Why you would like to have such place
And explain how you feel about the place

I’m going to talk about my dream house which would be a one-level home close to
the seashore. When you sit outside on the back porch you can hear the ocean waves
and the seagulls. It would be very relaxing.

Speaking of the reasons I think the building would be perfect, well, the exterior of the
house would be made of light-colored reddish brick with some beautiful stonework
around the entry. The garage would be large enough for two cars and also have
enough space to have a workbench for projects that are too messy to be done in the
house. Also, the garage would have a large sink so we could wash things in it that
are too messy for the house sinks.

Other than that, the house would have three bedrooms so we could have overnight
guests. The kitchen would be large with plenty of work area. The flooring would be
made from wood stained with a light color. The color of the flooring would be dark
enough so as not to show every hair or crumb that falls on the ground though. I would
like this kind of house because it would be relaxing to live there and easy to maintain.

Part 3
1. What’s the difference between an apartment and a house?
Well, a house is a separate building where you’re not really attached to anyone else’s
residence, and you might even have your own private garden. An apartment is
effectively a room, or several rooms in a very tall residential building, or block of

74 / 116
flats, as they call it in the UK. Living in an apartment is a different lifestyle really –
you get an elevator to go to your floor… you likely don’t have a garden but you do
have a balcony in most cases. You have to be more organized because you’re living in
a smaller space. These are the key differences that come to mind right now.

2. What is the most common architectural style of buildings in China?

The most common architectural style today, at least for modern buildings, is concrete,
metal and glass, and very simple, smooth, grey and white modern structures. They are
getting more and more “space-age-looking” as time goes on, but the majority are just
square blocks really, and less and less decorative. There are all sorts of trends of new
architecture coming out every few years, but the most common style for residential
buildings hasn’t changed much – if anything it has got more simple, perhaps a bit
more curvy and slick in design than in the past.

3. What difficulties do people have living in the city?

People living in a city have a host of challenges really. Transport, traffic, cost of living
and air quality are main issues. Of course, city life is way more exciting, so these are
small sacrifices to make as far as “city folk” are concerned. But yeah, the distances
you need to travel to go to work, maybe school, or different places, or visiting friends,
can be a burden, and on busy days the traffic is almost always the biggest hassle –
there’s always traffic jams in my city. I hate that aspect of city life. And the queues of
people in supermarkets, train stations, everywhere… including hospitals. It actually
makes life feel more intense and more stressful – at least for people like me.

4. What can be done to reduce the stress of city life?

Well… I think the only real way to reduce the city stress is to actually live in the most
convenient area of the city, and have the money to do so! That’s the snag – cities
really push people to be much more money-minded, because the more money you
have the more convenient your life can be – you can get the best transport options,
live in the best area, near the best schools, with all the facilities right on your doorstep.
Another way to reduce the stress of city life, is your state of mind – maybe that’s why
some people enjoy the gym or doing meditation classes and things like this today –
these kinds of activities help to counterbalance the stress of everyday city life and
provide a sort of “medicine” for the soul!

Describe a place you went to where there are a lot of people.

You should say:
Where it is
Who you went there with
Why there were many people
And explain how you felt when staying with those people

I can’t stand crowds, so I can think of many an occasion when I’ve been stuck in a

75 / 116
place with lots and lots of people. But the time that springs to mind the most strongly
is the last time I went back home for Spring Festival. Because very few people had
travelled around my country for a couple of years, this year there was a huge holiday
rush of travelers. I had to go to the main railway station in my town with two suitcases
and a backpack, on my own, I was actually not with anyone else; and it’s almost as if I
had forgotten how utterly crowded these places were, and how everyone pushes and
shoves and shouts and… oh it was stressful… really stressful. I really can’t handle
situations like this very well, they really stress me out. I know that, in part, it’s my
fault, I mean… I’m a pretty sensitive person and this kind of situation makes me feel
a sort of sense of panic. I simply don’t like crowded places at the best of times, let
alone when I’ve got to carry a total of three bags and catch a train. It’s awful. So,
hey… anyway, that’s what it’s like when you’ve got a huge population of people all
wanting to catch trains at the same time from a central train station – we have to
accept that, frankly. I now understand why I’m the type of person who likes smaller
towns, and not big cities. I feel it’s such a waste of time living in crowded places to be
honest – you simply waste so much time and energy in tolerating huge crowds of
people, and people who are invariably so frustrated themselves, that they actually end
up behaving very rudely. So, yeah, I don’t really blame society totally – I blame
myself for not being thick-skinned enough to just deal with it without feeling really
anxious.

Part 3
1. What kinds of places are often crowded with many people?
Like I’ve just described – train stations…. but also nightclubs, bars, popular
restaurants, shopping malls – you name it, wherever there is anything that people need
that is popular, you’ll find crowds. It’s just one of those downsides of a large
population. Also, one of the worst types of crowds are those that gather in temple fairs
during the spring festival holidays. I don’t really go to live music venues or sporting
events, but I am sure they are really crowded too, as, very much like train stations,
everyone is crowded into one place all together.

2. Do you think young people often wait patiently in crowded places?

Not especially. Some young people wait very patiently, and others lose their patience,
and lose their nerves. Or... others are like me – they panic and get super-anxious
inside, but they don’t show it to others at the time, and they act politely at the time,
but they are actually furious inside. So, it really is all down to the personality and the
upbringing of a person, really. So, it’s not necessarily related to their age.

3. What kinds of people do not like to go to crowded places?

I think that older people are less tolerant of very crowded and noisy places, and
people who are a bit quieter and sensitive, like me. Some people are just more private,
and like personal space more than others. Some people are quite tough, mentally and
perhaps physically, and they don’t really mind crowds, even unruly crowds. They sort
of let it all go over their heads and don’t worry about it. I am not one of those people,

76 / 116
I know that!

4. What are the advantages of living on an upper floor?

The great thing about living on an upper floor in an apartment block is that you get to
have magnificent views across and over the city. That’s something that really makes a
big difference, because on clear days, both at night and in the day, you get really nice
views from being high up. The second advantage, and I know this sounds a bit silly, is
because the upper floors are warmer – if you have an apartment on the upper floors
you’ll get the benefit of everyone’s heat from their apartments below – because heat
rises!! So, you get to have the warmest apartment in the building in the winter
months!

5. What do you think of the phenomenon of people queuing up in restaurants for

more than an hour?
I think it’s crazy. I certainly don’t have the patience for that, but I know lots of people
that do. This is a very common thing with the famous hotpot restaurants in my city –
people will queue for hours to get a table. Often they put lots of small plastic stools
outside, even with snacks on little tables, so that people can kill time and be more
comfortable while waiting – you know, rather than standing in a line on the sidewalk
for hours. I suppose that makes it better. I still don’t have the patience for this kind of
wait just to eat hot pot to be honest, but I know plenty of people that do, and they
even make a bit of a social event out of it all.

Describe a place far away from your home and you want to
visit it in the future.
You should say:
Where you would like to go
When you would like to go
Who you want to go with
And explain why you want to visit the place

A place I really want to visit in the future is Alaska. I know that might sound a bit
strange, because not many people, especially people in my country, want to visit
Alaska. But, I do. I’ll tell you why. Alaska is the northern most state of America, and
it’s a large, cold, snowy state with a lot of wilderness and ice and glaciers and
countryside. I am interested in visiting Alaska for a few reasons – firstly, I saw a
documentary a few years ago about the place, which showed the changing seasons,
the rivers, the mountains and the winter snows and the animals that lived there. There
was something captivating about the place that really struck me as unique. Another
thing that attracted me to Alaska, was a foreign teacher of mine, an elderly man who
wrote a book about his adventures in Alaska – how he went fishing, how he built a log
cabin there and went for long walks and the outdoor pursuits he did there with his
brother. I was really drawn to the place. I know that a lot of people want to go to

77 / 116
tropical islands and beaches and sunny warm places, but I like challenge, I like
adventure, I like stories of explorers facing the elements and prevailing and seeing
remote corners of the world that other people might not experience much. I also heard
that the people in the small towns in Alaska are really open and friendly – and I like
that. I want to be somewhere where people are trusting and friendly and live simply. I
think Alaska seems to be that kind of place from what I’ve heard. I would go there
alone… or with my best friend, John, from the Czech Republic – he has a similar taste
for adventure as I do.

Part 3
1. Does tourism have to do with cultural exchange?
Yes, in many cases it does, but not always. I think that a lot of tourism involves a
strong element of cultural exchange, or at least should do – by default, when you visit
another place you are effectively stepping into another culture, to some extent. Even if
it’s another place in your own country. And by stepping into that other space, you are
also sharing, to some degree, your own culture, by your presence. So, this involves
being open-minded and careful about how we behave and how we respect other’s
cultural norms and customs, as well as the impression we give to others about
ourselves – we are, after all, representatives of our own cultures when we travel.
However, I guess there are also types of holidays where people are not really
exchanging culture much – like perhaps a holiday sitting on the beach exclusively, or
something like that.

2. Why do some people think it is enjoyable to stay at home during holidays?

I can understand this entirely. I think that some people, especially in my country,
simply don’t want the hassle of travelling in the holidays. They might have very short
holidays, or very few holidays, and they don’t want to spend half of the holiday in
trains or buses, or train stations or airports – my country is big… and when the
holidays come the transport hubs become really crowded with people – I mean, really
really crowded. So, some people just can’t be bothered with dealing with all of that,
and find it stressful and time consuming, so they prefer just to stay at home, rest with
the family, relax, cook, maybe go out and about in their home town or city, go eat in
restaurants, go to the cinema – you know, stuff like that, while most of the country is
travelling around!

3. What do you think is the most desirable place for people to visit during holidays?
Well, this completely depends on the personality and wishes of the individuals who
are travelling! People are very different – they like different things and have different
needs. Some people think a beach holiday staying at a really nice seaside resort is
their idea of a fantastic holiday; others find that tediously boring. Some people think a
hiking holiday in the mountains is amazing, and their idea of an incredible holiday.
I’m one of those people, actually. I love combining some exercise with being close to
nature and enjoying panoramic views – China is great for those kinds of holidays, too.
And there are also people who enjoy holidays in cities – seeing famous monuments,

78 / 116
buildings, temples and the everyday life in busy cities. It takes all sorts!

4. Do young people usually travel with friends or alone?

Young people often like to travel with friends really. It’s quite popular today to
arrange a holiday with a group of friends. People go with university friends, or
colleagues from the same company, or even old school friends who get together again
in the holidays. It’s really fun to travel with other people – I can understand why this
has become more common these days. However, of course, there are people who do
not enjoy travelling with others, too. They are perhaps not so social, or they don’t
really want to reach compromises with others about what to do every day, what to eat
every day and so on. So, it really depends. Generally, I’d say that most young people
today enjoy travelling with friends.

79 / 116
Event:
 Describe a time when you had a problem with using the computer.
 Describe a time when you waited a long time for a nice thing.
 Describe a time when something changed your life in a good way.
 Describe an activity you did that made you feel tired.
 Describe a party you enjoyed.
 Describe a bad service you received in a restaurant or shop.
 Describe a piece of good advice that you gave to someone.
 Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study and you felt
proud of the experience.
 Describe an exciting activity you did with others.
 Describe a long car journey you went on.
 Describe a happy experience in your childhood.
 Describe an occasion when you lost your way.
 Describe an occasion when you spent time with a young child.
 Describe a game you played in your childhood.
 Describe a time when you had to talk to a group of people.
 Describe an exciting adventure you would like to go on.
 Describe an occasion when you got incorrect information.
 Describe a traditional celebration in your country that you enjoy.
 Describe a time when you saved money to buy an expensive gift for others.
 Describe an important decision you made in life.
 Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free time when you were young.

Describe a time when you had a problem with using the computer.
You should say:
What the problem was
When and where it happened
How you solved the problem
And explain how you felt about this experience

I'd like to talk about a rather frustrating experience I had with a computer. It was a
few months ago actually when I was working on an important project for my job. The
problem arose late in the evening when I was at home in my home office.

The issue I encountered was with my computer's operating system. Out of nowhere, it
started to freeze intermittently, making it nearly impossible to continue working. This
was a particularly stressful time because I had a looming deadline.

I decided to start troubleshooting right away. I began by rebooting the computer,

hoping that a simple restart would resolve the issue. Unfortunately, the problem
persisted. I then checked for any recent software updates, thinking that a bug might be

80 / 116
causing the problem. After updating, the issue still persisted.

Growing increasingly frustrated, I reached out to a colleague for assistance. They

suggested I try running a diagnostic scan to identify any hardware issues. This scan
took quite some time, and to my dismay, it didn't reveal any specific hardware
problems.

Finally, after several hours of trial and error, I decided to restore my computer to a
previous state using a system backup. This proved to be the solution, and my
computer returned to its normal, reliable state.

Reflecting on this experience, I felt a mix of relief and frustration. While I was
relieved that I managed to resolve the issue and meet my deadline, I was frustrated by
the hours of productivity lost due to the computer problem. It also made me realize
the importance of regularly backing up important work to prevent such situations in
the future. Overall, it was a valuable learning experience, albeit a challenging one.

Part 3
1. Where can people learn to use electronic devices?
People can learn to use electronic devices through various channels. Formal education
institutions like schools and colleges offer courses on digital literacy. Additionally,
there are online tutorials, user manuals, and tech support services provided by
manufacturers. Many individuals also learn through trial and error, exploring the
functionalities of their devices independently. Mainly, however, I think people learn
how to use most electronic devices from their friends, actually – everyone shows each
other different features and how to use them, and very quickly you all become adept
at using the technology.

2. Do you think social media platforms like Youku or YouTube are good places for
people to learn to use electronic devices?
Social media platforms like Youku or YouTube can be excellent resources for learning
to use electronic devices. They host a vast array of tutorial videos, ranging from basic
to advanced topics. These videos are often created by enthusiasts or professionals who
can provide valuable insights and step-by-step guidance. However, it's essential to
exercise caution and verify the credibility of the sources to ensure accurate
information. I think, still, a lot of people learn to use devices from their mates –
there’s always someone who buys the latest technology when it comes out, and those
people, you could call them geeks, always learn how to use every feature, then share
their knowledge proudly with their friends.

3. Do you think current electronic devices are better than those in the past?
In many ways, current electronic devices are indeed better than their predecessors.
They are typically faster, more powerful, and offer a wider range of features and
capabilities. Technological advancements have led to improvements in areas like

81 / 116
battery life, screen resolution, and connectivity options. However, whether they are
"better" depends on individual needs and preferences. Some people may prefer the
simplicity and durability of older devices for specific tasks.

4. Why do people often have problems when using new products?

People often encounter difficulties when using new products for several reasons.
Firstly, unfamiliarity with the product's interface or functions can lead to confusion
and errors. Manufacturers may assume that users have a certain level of prior
knowledge, but this isn't always the case. Secondly, inadequate user guides or
instructions can exacerbate the problem. If the accompanying manual or online help
resources are poorly written or incomplete, users are left to figure things out on their
own, which can be very time-consuming and frustrating.

Describe a time when you waited a long time for a nice thing.
You should say:
When it happened
How long you waited
What you waited for
And explain why you waited a long time

I remember a time when I had to wait for what felt like an eternity for a special event.
It happened a few years ago during my high school graduation. I had been eagerly
looking forward to this event for a long time. The anticipation had built up over the
entire school year.

The day finally arrived in early June. I had counted down the days on my calendar for
months. I woke up early that morning, put on my graduation gown and cap, and
headed to the school with my family. The ceremony was scheduled to begin in the
afternoon, but we arrived much earlier to ensure we got good seats.

As I sat there waiting, time seemed to drag on. I watched as other graduates and their
families arrived, and the excitement in the air was palpable. The ceremony itself took
a few hours, with speeches, music, and the awarding of diplomas. It felt like an
eternity, especially when we were waiting for my name to be called.

But the reason I waited so eagerly was that this graduation was not just an ordinary
event for me. It marked the end of a significant chapter in my life, and I was filled
with a mix of emotions – pride, nostalgia, and excitement for the future. Waiting for
this special moment to arrive made it all the more memorable, and looking back, I
cherish that day as a symbol of achievement and new beginnings. So, even though I
waited a long time for my high school graduation, the anticipation and the
significance of the event made it absolutely worth it.

82 / 116
Part 3
1. On what occasions do people usually need to wait?
People usually need to wait when they want to take public transport like buses, trains,
and especially taxis. More recently taxis are booked online through apps and
sometimes it takes a really long time for drivers to pick up. Another situation in which
people routinely wait is when they have a doctor’s appointment – they can wait a long
time in queues for such appointments, especially in really busy places.

2. Why do most children have difficulty in waiting for a long time?

Children often struggle with waiting for extended periods due to their developing
cognitive and emotional abilities. Their sense of time is not as well-developed as
adults, making it challenging to understand and manage long waiting times.
Additionally, children tend to be more impulsive and seek immediate gratification,
which can make waiting difficult.

3. Do you think waiting is harder now?

It depends. In cities in China, yes, population is dense and there are lots of crowds. It
seems that in recent years, I think mainly because of the traffic in my city, I seem to
wait longer and longer for everything. I reckon this is becoming common for pretty
much everyone, and instead of getting more patient, I think many people are
becoming increasingly less patient the more that they are frustrated by long queues,
taxi waits, and all sorts of measures and protocols that are involved in going to
different places these days.

4. What can parents do to help children become more patient?

Parents play a crucial role in helping children become more patient. They can do so
by setting clear expectations and routines, teaching their children about the concept of
time, and using strategies such as visual aids like timers or clocks to help children
understand the passage of time. Additionally, parents can model patience in their
behavior and engage in activities that require waiting, gradually increasing their
child's ability to wait over time. It's essential to provide positive reinforcement and
praise when children exhibit patience to encourage their efforts in this area.

Describe a time when something changed your life in a good way.

You should say:
When it happened
Where it happened
What the thing was
And explain how it changed your life in a good way

One of the most transformative moments in my life occurred during my freshman

year of college. It was a crisp autumn day, and I was walking across the campus when
I stumbled upon a flyer for a study abroad program in Japan. Intrigued by the idea of

83 / 116
exploring a new culture and broadening my horizons, I decided to apply.

Several months later, I found myself on a plane to Japan, about to embark on a

life-changing adventure. Over the next year, I immersed myself in Japanese culture,
learned the language, and formed deep connections with both locals and fellow
international students. I experienced the beauty of cherry blossom season, explored
historic temples, and tasted a variety of delicious Japanese cuisine. I found it really
fascinating that the roots of a lot of Japanese art and culture are actually from China,
itself, historically, and it’s interesting to see how these have evolved in so many
different ways.

This experience changed my life in profound ways. It expanded my worldview,

fostering a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, and my own Chinese roots, and a
more profound understanding of global issues. I gained valuable insights into
communication, adaptability, and resilience. Moreover, I developed a passion for
cross-cultural exchange, which has since guided my academic and career choices.

Studying abroad in Japan not only enriched my personal growth but also opened up
new opportunities. It influenced my decision to pursue a career in international
relations and allowed me to work on projects that promote intercultural understanding.
Emm, and overall, this experience had a lasting positive impact on my life, shaping
my values, interests, and aspirations in a meaningful way.

Part 3
1. How do you adapt to changes in life?
Adapting to changes in life involves a combination of resilience, problem-solving
skills, and the ability to accept and learn from new experiences. Individuals who can
adjust effectively often find it easier to navigate life's transitions. They understand that
change is an inherent part of life and embrace it as an opportunity for personal growth
and development, despite the challenges it may present.

2. Who can adapt better to changes, children or adults?

Children typically possess a natural adaptability due to their developing cognitive
abilities and curiosity. They may find novelty exciting and are more open to learning
and embracing change. Their flexibility and willingness to explore new experiences
often lead to a richer and more diverse picture and perspective on the world. So, in
this regard, I believe, in general, children might be better at adapting than adults.

3. Why do people quit and change jobs?

People change jobs for a multitude of reasons, including career advancement, higher
income, improved work-life balance, or escaping a toxic work environment. These
decisions often align with personal goals and values. The pursuit of professional and
personal fulfillment drives individuals to make career changes that are in harmony
with their aspirations.

84 / 116
4. Do children like changing schools?
Children's attitudes toward changing schools can vary widely based on their age,
personality, and previous experiences. Some may embrace the opportunity for new
friendships, while others may find it unsettling to leave behind familiar surroundings.
This transition can be a pivotal moment in their academic and social development,
shaping their educational journey and life experiences.

5. What are the disadvantages when people keep making changes?

Frequent changes can lead to a lack of stability, making it challenging to establish
deep-rooted relationships or expertise in a particular field. It's essential to strike a
balance between change and stability to achieve personal and professional growth.
Maintaining continuity while selectively embracing change allows individuals to
build lasting relationships and expertise while still evolving and adapting to new
circumstances.

Describe an activity you did that made you feel tired.

You should say:
When it happened
Where it took place
What the activity was
And explain why it made you feel tired

Several months ago, I embarked on a challenging hiking expedition in the Lake

District of Northern England at the end of my 2-years of university study in Glasgow,
Scotland. The hike took place on a crisp autumn morning, starting from the
picturesque village of Grasmere. The activity, of course, was hiking, specifically a
demanding trail that led to the summit of one of the highest peaks in the region –
whose name I forget. I went with a group of friends from my university – a lively and
fun group of enthusiastic international students.

As we trudged up the steep slopes, the trail took us through dense woodlands, over
rocky paths, and eventually to the exposed ridge leading to the summit. The
combination of steep ascents, strong winds, and unpredictable weather made this
adventure both physically and mentally taxing.

What made it all worthwhile was the breathtaking scenery from the top. As I reached
the summit, I was greeted by panoramic views of the Lake District's rolling hills and
serene lakes. Despite the exhaustion, that sense of accomplishment and the sheer
beauty of nature revitalized me. I’d like to do a few more walks both in the UK and in
China – in fact, there are a lot of places in China where one can hike in the mountains,
and I think I will try to do more of this activity now I’m back here and have a bit more
free time on my hands this summer.

85 / 116
Part 3
1. When do people usually feel tired?
People typically feel tired at different points during the day, with common times being
in the late afternoon or evening. Fatigue often sets in after a full day of work or
activities. There are some people, however, who seem to possess more stamina than
others – take my grandmother for example, she’s in her early 80s, and she is always
on the go, not only doing housework, but social activities with friends, too. She only
ever seems to get tired at night. So, I think that personality and personal energy levels
have something to do with this, too.

2. What’s the difference between tiredness caused by doing sport and study/work?
Tiredness from physical exercise is often characterized by muscle fatigue, shortness
of breath, and the need to rest and recover. On the other hand, tiredness from study or
work is usually mental and can involve feelings of mental exhaustion, difficulty
concentrating, and the need for relaxation. I must say that tiredness due to physical
activities can be a unique and fantastic feeling – you get a high from exercise because
the body releases endorphins; you also get a real appetite, and food and drink is
always so much more satisfying and rewarding when you’re physically tired.

3. How much free time do you think office workers should have?
Office workers should ideally strike a balance of work and leisure time. The amount
of free time needed can vary from person to person, but having regular breaks and a
reasonable workday allows for physical and mental recuperation. I also think that
some office workers spend far too much time sitting in poor postures in bad chairs.
They really should have regular breaks so that they can exercise – this is also proven
to increase mental focus and productivity as well as individual health.

4. Do you think it is easier for people to feel tired today than 40 years ago?
In many ways, the demands and pace of modern life can make it easier for people to
get tired today compared to 40 years ago. The constant connectivity, longer work
hours, and information overload that many people face can contribute to increased
fatigue levels. However, on the other hand, life in the past was more physically
demanding, and people had to do a lot more chores themselves, so I think people then
used to get more tired, but perhaps in a different way – arguably a more natural and
healthy way, maybe.

Describe a party you enjoyed.

You should say:
When you went to this party
Where the party was held
What kind of party it was
And explain why you enjoyed this party

86 / 116
I'd like to talk about a party I attended a couple of years ago that left a lasting
impression on me. It was a close friend's housewarming party, which took place on a
warm summer evening. The location was their newly acquired apartment in the heart
of the city.

This party was particularly enjoyable for several reasons. Firstly, the timing was
perfect – a sunny weekend evening that set the ideal backdrop for an outdoor
gathering. The apartment's balcony overlooked the city skyline, creating a stunning
atmosphere as the sun began to set.

Secondly, it was a small, intimate gathering, which allowed for meaningful

conversations and connections. The hosts had put a lot of thought into the details,
from the selection of delicious homemade appetizers to the carefully chosen playlist
that provided the perfect ambiance.

What made this party truly special, though, was the sense of celebration and new
beginnings. It marked a significant milestone in my friend's life as they embarked on
the journey of homeownership. The joy and excitement were palpable in the air, and it
felt like we were all part of a significant life transition.

As we chatted, laughed, and shared stories, I realized how much I enjoyed the
camaraderie and the feeling of being part of a close-knit community. It was a simple
yet profound reminder of how meaningful human connections can be. This party
wasn't about extravagance or grandeur; it was about the warmth of friendship, the
thrill of new experiences, and the appreciation of life's little moments.

Part 3
1. What will you do if you are disturbed by your neighbour’s party?
If I were disturbed by my neighbor's party, I would initially try to resolve the issue
politely by speaking to them about the noise and expressing my concerns.
Communication is key in such situations. If the problem persists, I might contact local
authorities or law enforcement, depending on the severity of the disturbance and the
local regulations. It’s pretty important to maintain good relationships with neighbours
so I think that honesty and politeness are absolutely key in these kinds of situations.

2. Why do people like parties while others don’t?

People have varying preferences when it comes to socializing, and parties are no
exception. Some individuals enjoy parties as they provide opportunities for social
interaction, entertainment, and a break from routine. Others might not like parties due
to reasons such as introversion, discomfort in large gatherings, or different interests.
It's a matter of personal temperament and social inclinations – I don’t think one way is
better than another – it’s just the way people are – we all end up with different
personalities.

87 / 116
3. Do you think music and dance are a must at a party?
Music and dance can certainly enhance the atmosphere at a party, but whether they
are a "must" depends on the type and purpose of the party. While they are common
features in many celebrations, some gatherings, like dinner parties or networking
events, may not prioritize music and dance. It ultimately comes down to the
preferences of the hosts and attendees. I do know people who find music and dance a
bit overbearing and they prefer quieter parties where people mingle and chat over
cocktails or something. Again, it depends on the kind of party.

4. Do people in China like to hold parties at home or in public places?

In China, both home and public venue parties are popular, and the choice often
depends on the occasion and cultural factors. Traditional celebrations and family
gatherings might occur at home, while larger events like weddings or corporate
parties are frequently held in public places like banquet halls in hotels or restaurants.
It's a diverse landscape reflecting the rich social tapestry of my country.

5. What are the differences between party at home and those held in public places?
Parties at home tend to have a more intimate and personal atmosphere, often
involving close friends and family. Public place parties, on the other hand, can
accommodate larger guest lists and may offer more extensive entertainment options.
The choice between the two often hinges on factors like the scale of the event, cultural
norms and the occasion, and individual preferences regarding ambiance and
convenience.

Describe a bad service you received in a restaurant or shop.

You should say:
When and where it happened
What happened
How you dealt with it
And explain how you felt about the experience

A few months ago, I had an unfortunate experience with bad service at a local
restaurant. It was on a Saturday evening, and a group of friends and I had decided to
dine out at a newly opened eatery in the heart of the city. Our anticipation was high as
we had heard good things about the place. However, as soon as we arrived and were
seated, things started to go downhill.

The waitress, a young, long-haired moody girl called Nan assigned to our table,
seemed disinterested and inattentive from the start. It took an unusually long time for
her to bring us the menus, and even longer to take our orders. When the food finally
arrived, it was clear that there had been a mix-up in the kitchen, and I suspect it was
Nan’s fault. Several dishes were incorrect, and a couple were cold. We politely

88 / 116
pointed this out to Nan, the waitress, expecting a quick resolution, but she shrugged it
off and left us waiting for another excruciatingly long period.

Frustration began to mount among my friends and me as we watched other tables

receive prompt and courteous service, getting their meals and enjoying their food. It
seemed like our concerns were being intentionally ignored. We eventually had to seek
out the manager to address the issue, which further disrupted our meal. But this is
where things turned around fairly quickly – a short-haired and highly efficient female
manager called Xiao Xia, took our matter incredibly seriously.

She rectified the situation by being extremely -and sincerely- apologetic, offering
complimentary desserts and a huge discount. However, the overall experience had left
a sour taste in our mouths. It was disappointing to see such a lack of professionalism
and customer care in what was supposed to be a reputable establishment. I left feeling
frustrated and disappointed that what should have been an enjoyable evening with
friends was marred by such poor service. This experience served as a reminder of the
importance of attentive and responsive customer service in the hospitality industry.

Part 3
1. What are some of the reasons bad service can occur?
Bad service can occur for various reasons. It may result from miscommunication,
inadequate staff training, or a lack of attention to customer needs and satisfaction.
Sometimes, external factors like high workload, stress, or unexpected situations can
also contribute to service lapses.

2. How do most people respond to bad services?

When people encounter bad service, their responses can vary. Many individuals
choose to address the issue directly with the service provider, providing feedback and
seeking resolution. Others may opt to share their negative experiences through
reviews or social media, which can influence the reputation of the business. Some
may decide simply not to return to the establishment and may share their experiences
with friends and family.

3. Do you most restaurants and shops provide better services than in the past?
In recent years, many restaurants and shops have made efforts to enhance their
services, recognizing the importance of customer satisfaction in a competitive market.
Technological advancements have also allowed for improved service delivery and
customer interactions. While there have been positive changes in service quality, it is
essential to evaluate services on a case-by-case basis, as quality can still vary among
establishments.

89 / 116
 Describe a piece of good advice that you gave to someone.
You should say:
Who you gave the advice to
What the advice was
Why you gave the advice
And explain how he/she followed your advice

I vividly remember a piece of advice I offered to my younger cousin who was

struggling with time management during his first year of college. He was feeling
overwhelmed by assignments, extracurricular activities, and the newfound freedom
that comes with college life. He was really stressed out, but at the same time he was
engaging in a highly active social life and ‘burning the candle at both ends’.

The advice I gave him was simple yet effective: create a schedule and prioritize tasks.
I suggested he use a planner to jot down assignment due dates, club meetings, and
personal commitments. By allocating specific time slots for each task, he could ensure
that nothing was neglected, and he'd have a clear overview of his responsibilities.

I also encouraged him to take regular breaks to avoid burnout and recommended
setting realistic goals to prevent procrastination. To my delight, he embraced these
suggestions and even developed his own unique time-management techniques.

In the end, I was thrilled to see him excel academically and still have time for his
hobbies and social life. It reinforced my belief in the power of simple yet valuable
advice when faced with life's challenges. I like helping people and giving advice
and I think it’s important that as we get older we try to share some of the wisdom we
have learned from our life experiences, with younger people. That way, hopefully,
society can advance and progress.

Part 3
1. What advice should children get from their parents?
Children should receive a wide range of advice from their parents, including guidance
on values, ethics, safety, and life skills. Parents often play a crucial role in teaching
their children about responsibility, empathy, and how to navigate various life
challenges. Additionally, parents can offer insights into the importance of education,
hard work, and making ethical decisions, all of which contribute to a child's character
development and future success.

2. Why do some children not follow their parents’ advice?

Some children may not follow their parents' advice due to a desire for independence
and autonomy. Adolescents, in particular, may test boundaries and seek to make their
own decisions, sometimes disregarding well-intentioned parental advice. This
behavior is a natural part of growing up and establishing one's identity. It's essential

90 / 116
for parents to strike a balance between offering guidance and allowing their children
to learn from their own experiences.

3. Do you think it is necessary for us to listen to friends’ advice?

Listening to friends' advice can be valuable, as friends often provide different
perspectives and insights. However, the importance of such advice depends on the
nature of the friendship and the specific situation. Friends can offer emotional support
and practical suggestions, but individuals should also exercise their judgment and
critical thinking when evaluating the advice received. Trusting friends' advice should
be a part of the decision-making process but not the sole determinant.

4. What professions often give people advice?

Professions that involve providing advice include counsellors, therapists, teachers,
financial advisors, doctors, lawyers, and mentors. These professionals use their
expertise to guide and support individuals in various aspects of their lives. Counselors
and therapists help individuals with their emotional and mental well-being, teachers
provide educational guidance, financial advisors offer financial planning advice,
doctors and lawyers give expert advice in their respective fields, and mentors provide
guidance and support based on their life experiences. These professionals play
essential roles in helping individuals make informed decisions and overcome
challenges.

Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study and

you felt proud of the experience.
You should say:
What the task was
How you completed it
Why the task was difficult
And explain why you were proud of the completion of this task

I'd like to share an experience from my university days when I undertook a task that I
found both challenging and rewarding. It was during my sophomore year when I was
tasked with organizing a fundraising event for a local charity organization.

The event was set to take place in our university's main hall, and the goal was to raise
funds for a non-profit organization that provided education and support to
underprivileged children in our community. Although I had never organized such an
event before, I eagerly accepted the responsibility.

The first challenge was the logistics. I had to coordinate with various stakeholders,
including the charity organization, university administration, local businesses for
sponsorships, and student volunteers. Managing schedules, resources, and
expectations was no small feat.

91 / 116
Next, I had to come up with creative ideas to make the event engaging and appealing
to both students and the local community. We decided on a charity auction, live music
performances by talented students, and interactive games. I had to work closely with a
team to ensure everything ran smoothly.

One of the most demanding aspects was fundraising itself. We initiated online
campaigns, sold tickets, and organized bake sales and merchandise stalls. The task
required extensive promotion on social media and flyers around the campus.

As the event day approached, the pressure intensified. I was responsible for ensuring
everything was in place, from the auction items to the sound system for the
performances etc. On the day of the event, I was running around, ensuring all
elements of the fundraiser were executed seamlessly.

What made this task particularly challenging was the sheer amount of responsibility
and the tight deadlines. However, when the event was finally underway, and we saw
the turnout of both students and local residents, I couldn't help but feel an immense
sense of relief and accomplishment.

We not only met our fundraising target but exceeded it. The local charity organization
was thrilled, and the money we raised made a significant impact on the lives of the
underprivileged children they supported. Personally, this experience taught me
valuable skills in event planning, team coordination, and fundraising, which have
proven beneficial in my subsequent academic and professional endeavors.

Part 3
1. What are the things that usually make people proud of?
People often feel proud of various accomplishments and milestones in their lives.
These can include personal achievements like graduating from school, obtaining a
degree, landing a dream job, starting a family, or making a positive impact on their
community. These moments of pride are often linked to personal growth,
perseverance, and contributions to society.

2. What challenges do most young people face today?

Young people today face a myriad of challenges. Academic pressure, career
uncertainty, financial instability, and the ever-increasing use of technology are among
the common challenges. Additionally, issues related to mental health, environmental
concerns, and the need to balance work and personal life pose significant hurdles.
Young individuals often adapt by seeking support from mentors, pursuing further
education, and engaging in social and political activism.

3. How do young people handle difficult tasks?

Handling difficult tasks can be a formidable challenge for young people. They often

92 / 116
employ strategies such as time management, seeking guidance from mentors or
experienced peers, breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and leveraging
technological tools to streamline processes. Collaborative efforts and seeking
emotional support from friends and family also play a crucial role in overcoming
some of these challenges.

4. What kinds of rewards do people receive from work?

Work-related rewards vary, but typically include financial compensation, career
advancement, recognition, and personal satisfaction. Financially, people receive
salaries, bonuses, and benefits as tangible rewards. Career advancement involves
promotions and opportunities for skill development. Recognition can come in the
form of awards or acknowledgment from peers and supervisors. Importantly, personal
satisfaction from a job well done is a significant intrinsic reward, contributing to a
sense of fulfillment and individual motivation and personal self-esteem.

Describe an exciting activity you did with others.

You should say:
When it happened
What the activity was
Who you did it with
And explain why this activity was exciting

One of the most thrilling experiences I've ever had with others was when a group of
my friends and I decided to go skydiving. This exhilarating adventure took place last
summer when we were looking for an extraordinary way to celebrate the end of our
university exams.

We embarked on this daring escapade at a skydiving center located near the coastline.
As we suited up in our jumpsuits and received a comprehensive safety briefing, the
anticipation in the air was palpable. I jumped alongside three close friends, and we
were assigned professional instructors who guided us through the entire process.

The moment we leaped out of the plane and descended toward the earth at
breathtaking speeds was nothing short of electrifying. The feeling of weightlessness
combined with the stunning aerial views was an absolute adrenaline rush. It was a
thrilling experience that left us all in awe and disbelief.

What made this activity particularly exciting was the camaraderie and shared sense of
adventure among us. The nervous laughter before the jump and the jubilant cheers
upon landing created lasting memories. It was an opportunity to conquer our fears and
bond on a whole new level.

Overall, this skydiving adventure was not just about the breathtaking freefall but also

93 / 116
the bonds we strengthened with each other. It was an unforgettable experience that we
still reminisce about with great excitement and joy.

Part 3
1. What exciting activities do young people like to do?
Young people are often drawn to a wide range of exciting activities, including
adventure sports like rock climbing or skydiving, as well as engaging in hobbies such
as traveling to new places, attending music festivals, or participating in team sports.
These activities provide them with an adrenaline rush and a sense of adventure that
they find exhilarating.

2. What are the advantages of doing such activities?

Engaging in exciting activities offers several advantages for young people. Firstly, it
allows them to break away from the monotony of daily life and experience a sense of
freedom and self-discovery. Secondly, it can boost their physical and mental
well-being by providing exercise and reducing stress. Finally, such activities often
create opportunities for social interaction, helping them build friendships and develop
valuable life skills.

3. Why do some people like to do risky activities?

Some individuals are drawn to risky activities because they thrive on the thrill and
adrenaline rush associated with these pursuits. For them, the element of danger adds
excitement and challenge, making the experience more memorable. Additionally,
conquering risky activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and
self-confidence.

4. Should old people do risky activities?

Whether or not old people should engage in risky activities largely depends on their
physical health and personal preferences. While some older individuals may still
enjoy and be capable of participating in certain risky activities, others might prioritize
more relaxed and safer leisure pursuits. It's essential for older individuals to carefully
assess their health and consult with medical professionals before undertaking any
potentially risky activities to ensure their safety.

Describe a long car journey you went on.

You should say:
Where you went
What you did there
Who you went there with
And explain why you went on that journey by car

A long car journey that stands out most in my mind is a trip to Inner Mongolia that I
made with my elder brother and uncle a few years ago. We went from a city south of

94 / 116
Beijing, all the way to the grasslands where my uncle has a friend. It was a great drive
actually… when you get out of the city and down the main highways there are
incredible views of the mountains, and then after a few hours they open out into large
fields and grasslands on both sides of the road… the roads then get smaller, narrower
and wind around hills and small valleys and out into the open again. It was fantastic
and we took food with us – you know, some basic provisions to eat along the way.
When we arrived we stayed in a traditional Mongolian yurt, we rode horses, we ate
amazing barbecue lamb and we watched a man demonstrating how he tamed eagles
and buzzards. It was a really educational trip in a way and it was wonderful to be
somewhere with fresh air, open countryside and friendly people. The people are a
different ethnic group to us, so that was also pretty interesting, as well as the fact that
they speak a different language amongst themselves. It’s really fascinating to live in a
country with such ethnic and cultural diversity. I enjoyed the trip a lot and would love
to go back again. It’s more exciting to do a road trip than just travel somewhere by
plane – you see the evolution of the country along the way and it feels more
rewarding when you finally arrive at your destination.

Part 3
1. What benefit does public transport bring to the society?
Well, transport is pretty essential really, otherwise we would have to walk everywhere!
Today, as cities expand it becomes increasingly important that we have good public
transport infrastructure – because people need to commute increasingly long distances
to get to work. Also, there are a lot of private cars on the roads and the traffic is
horrific in most cities, therefore decent public transport is getting more and more
important both for reasons of convenience and environmental reasons.

2. Is it too late for people to get driving licenses at 18 years old?

No, I think that the earliest age you can get a driving license is 18. I’m not totally sure,
but anyway, I don’t think it’s too late. You can learn to drive at any time in life, to be
honest, though, like most things, it can be easier when you are younger. In my view
it’s best to learn to drive when you’re a bit older though – a lot of 18 year olds are still
so immature, especially the boys! And if they get behind the wheel of a car, especially
a sports car or something, they can drive crazily and without proper attention to safety,
and this can be dangerous.

3. Do you think the government should make it a rule for people to use public
transport?
I think that there should be more rules for taking public transport yes, and more
restrictions on private car use, most certainly. If you’ve ever experienced the traffic in
Beijing or Xi’an, then you will know how awful and stressful it is, and how the traffic
contributes negatively to the air quality issues we already have. I do think that public
transport is already very cheap in my city, and also pretty efficient. The government
have done a great job of improving public transport over the years, and they’ve kept it
really affordable for the majority of people, too.

95 / 116
4. What jobs require people to be good at driving?
Driving jobs usually are the delivery services – they often involve electric bikes and
trikes. There are also jobs that involve driving cars, of course – various taxi services
and car hire services. Some people, like top businessmen and executives, or
government officials, might have private drivers as well. This was a very popular
thing in the past but I’m not sure if it’s so popular today, because the new generations
seem to enjoy driving cars themselves.

Describe a happy experience in your childhood.

You should say:
What it was about
Who you were with
What you did
And explain how you felt about it

I’ll tell you about an experience that really makes me laugh today, in retrospect, but,
to be fair, I don’t think many people would regard it as a ‘happy experience’, but for
me and my friend at the time, we found it hilarious…. Perhaps I was a naughty kid.
When I was about 10 years old my mother took my friend Matthew and I to the zoo
for the day. I can’t remember why it was just my mother, Matthew and I, but anyway.
So, we all went to the zoo… We had a great time, but Matthew and I were quite silly
and it was clear that my mother was getting really tired of us after a while – always
fooling around, joking, doing silly things, like young boys often do.
At the very end of the day when it was time to go home, myself and Matthew did
something really naughty, though. We intentionally ran off while my mother’s back
was turned and decided to hide. I know, this isn’t funny, really… but… boys are
mischievous, you know…
We couldn’t find anywhere good to hide where there weren’t any people around that
would see us, then tell my mother, but then suddenly Matthew had an idea… he
pointed to an enclosed area where there was a kind of cat, a pole cat I think it was
called… It was not a caged area, like they have for most animals that can fly, jump or
climb. It was a walled area, like the places they keep the meerkat’s and goats and all
other types of animals like that. Anyway, so Matthew proposed that we both jump into
the enclosure with the pole cats… yes, climb over the wall and jump over into the
enclosure. So, with a grin, I agreed.
We hid there with these smelly pole cats around us, peeking over the wall from time
to time to watch my mother frantically looking for us around that area of the zoo….
She was getting more and more annoyed, but we remained in hiding… Eventually, we
couldn’t hide quietly anymore, and we poked our heads over the wall and shouted to
my mother. She was utterly shocked! She couldn’t believe that we had actually got
into an enclosure with the pole cats. So, anyway, we laughed a lot about that, and in
the end my mother also found the story quite funny – well, not at the time, but when

96 / 116
we look back on the day together, she finds it funny now. So, yeah, I think this counts
as a happy experience.

Part 3
1. Why do some people have better memory than others?
That’s an interesting question, it’s hard to say… I am not totally sure, I think some of
it is definitely down to genetics – you know, how we are made when we are born. And
some of it is perhaps our education, our learning habits growing up – the kind of ways
we were taught by our parents and our teachers; I think those things contribute to our
memories too. They say the brain is a bit like a muscle and if you use it correctly, you
know, exercise it in the right ways, it will become stronger or more powerful, and
perhaps that is something that contributes to a better memory too – mental agility,
exercises, doing things that improve cognition, and so on.

2. What kinds of things do people prefer to remember?

I think people have quite selective memories, actually. I believe that some people
choose to remember positive things about the past, because that helps them to feel
better and get on with life, and they choose to block out negative things, and not bring
them to our memories – sort of keep them buried deep inside, maybe. I think that
happens. I also think that some people are worriers by nature, and they actually
remember bad memories more, perhaps because they are negative people, or they are
more affected by negative experiences that they have not come to terms with… The
memory is a strange thing. I’m not sure I understand it fully.

3. Why do some people remember more of their childhood than others?

I really don’t know. Like I said before, I think our minds work in mysterious ways and
we are never really sure if some of this is influenced by our genetics or by our life
experiences and upbringing or both. I would say that some people just simply are born
with a better mental capacity for remembering things than other people. Also, maybe
people remember things that really matter to them, and kids who have had a really
positive childhood might be more inclined to remember it than kids who may not have
had such a pleasant time growing up… I can’t say for sure, really.

4. What can people do to improve their memory?

I believe the brain is very much like any other muscle in our bodies and if we give it
plenty of good exercise we can improve its function, and that includes memory. I
think that doing logic puzzles, crosswords, mathematical equations and things like
this, really improve our memory if we do them enough. And I think we should do
them from an early age. I know quite a few old people who believe they can still
improve their memories, however, by actively reading and doing all sorts of different
puzzles and trivia quizzes and things like that.

97 / 116
 Describe an occasion when you lost your way.
You should say:
Where you were
What happened
How you felt about it
And explain how you found your way

I’ve lost my way many times actually – I have a terrible sense of direction! But the
one time that I remember when I got really stressed and worried was when I was with
a friend in London. We had gone on a holiday together and we didn’t go out with our
mobile phones so we couldn’t use GPS maps to help us. We went to see the Tower of
London, which was a long walk from where we were staying, and on the way back we
got completely lost, and then it started to rain. We managed to get a paper map from a
friendly hotel receptionist, but the map was confusing and we got even more lost,
especially as the map started to get soaking wet with all the rain. The English weather
is really unpredictable. Eventually we gave up and hailed a taxi – taxis are really
expensive in London as well, but anyway, eventually we got back to our hostel,
showered and dried off. The thing I got nervous about was that London is quite big
and we ended up getting lost in some areas that seemed a bit run-down and perhaps
not very safe. You have to be very careful in big cities that you don’t know, because
you don’t know which areas are safe or not to go wandering around in, especially
when the sun sets and it gets dark. I felt a bit scared at times. Also when you get lost
in a foreign country you feel more nervous because you don’t feel in control, you’re
not on familiar territory, so getting lost can be a very unnerving experience. I was so
relieved when we eventually got back to the hostel though. Next time I’m in a foreign
country I will certainly make sure I have the international service on my phone open,
and take my phone so I can use GPS maps!!

Part 3
1. How can people find their way when they are lost?
I think the best ways to find your way when lost today are using the GPS apps on your
mobile phone. That’s what everyone does these days. Another way, especially if you
are in a town or city, is simply asking the people in the street or people in local shops,
for directions. Most people, I find, are more than willing to help give directions to you
when you’re lost and it can also be a good way of interacting with the locals in a new
place. These are the two most convenient ways of finding your way when lost, I think.

2. Why do some people get lost more easily than others?

Some people simply have a terrible sense of direction. Like me, for example! It’s just
how we are, it’s in our nature. I am not sure why, maybe there is some scientific or
psychological explanation, in fact, I am sure there is, deep down, but I don’t know
what that might be. All in all, I think that people are made differently, are born
differently, and some people have a very good internal system of navigation and

98 / 116
finding their way around. Take my brother, for example, he has an amazing sense of
direction, and none of us in my family know why, but he does!

3. Are paper maps still necessary?

For the most part, I would say that paper maps are a thing of the past. We don’t really
need them at all if we have a phone that is charged up, that is! Paper maps might be
necessary, however, if we are on a very long hike and we simply do not have our
phones, a means of charging our phones, or, more importantly, a phone signal which
can connect to GPS. So, I think it’s always a good idea if people learn how to use a
paper map, because we cannot be slaves to technology and mobile phones, because if
these things go wrong, then we are really and truly lost if we cannot read a paper map!

4. Do you think technology makes it harder for people find their way?
Technology makes it easier, not harder, for people to find their way. That’s a fairly
well-established fact, I reckon. Very few people would dispute that, to be fair. Mobile
phones today are perfectly equipped to help us locate where we are, whether we are
driving, walking, hiking or riding a bike. There are a host of modern apps that are
geared towards helping people find their ways if they are hikers, cyclist or drivers. I
think the driving navigation apps are probably the most popular and useful today and
they even tell us where there are likely to be traffic jams, road works, or even police
speed cameras too!

Describe an occasion when you spent time with a young child.

You should say:
Who the child is
Where you spent time with this child
What you did together
And how you felt about it

A time when I spent a time with a young child that I remember the most clearly, was a
couple of summer’s ago in my hometown during the holidays. My cousin had had a
baby, and I was staying with them. And because everyone was focusing on the new
baby, I ended up spending a lot of time with their other daughter, a 3-year old girl. I
had not spent that much time with her before, and to be honest I found it really really
fun and interesting. When children are 3 years old they are reaching an interesting
stage in their growth and development and are becoming much more aware of the
wider world, their relationships with others, and making friends in school, and also, of
course, their language skills have developed quite a bit so you can have conversations
with them about life and their opinions on different things. We played a few games
together, did some colouring, and watched some cartoons on the girl’s tablet. It was
really fun, and to be quite honest, I enjoyed it so much more than I had expected. I
had not previously spent much time with young children, and I was always under the
impression that I’d find it tiring and boring, but quite the contrary, I think I enjoyed

99 / 116
her company more than the company of most older people! So, it was an unexpected
pleasure.

Part 3
1. Do you think children should have a lot of toys?
As a general rule, no I don’t really. I think children should not be spoiled at all.
Children who are given too much can end up being really rude and not really learn the
value of things. I think it’s great if you give children toys, of course, but we should be
careful not to overwhelm them with too many things. They should learn to enjoy
playing with a few toys at once. Also, from my experience, children get bored of
things very quickly if they have too many toys, and constantly move on to the next
novelty, rather than appreciating what they currently have. So, there should be a fine
balance between being kind and generous, and spoiling kids to the point where they
themselves won’t appreciate the things that they are given.

2. Do you think there are too many rules for children to follow?
Well... that depends. In schools, yes, there are far too many rules and I think that is a
bit too much. They are often educated in systems which are far too negative in terms
of how mistakes are dealt with by teachers. I am a firm believer that children respond
better to kind and encouraging positive reinforcement, and I think a lot of rules and
strict guidelines can stifle their creativity and their flexibility and their personalities.
But, on the other hand, rules are important, and children can run wild if they do not
have rules to follow, and rules which are enforced consistently by responsible adults.

3. Do you think it’s good for parents to help their children choose friends?
I think that parents should observe and keep an eye on the people their kids choose to
spend time with but I don’t think they should actively intervene and ‘help’ them
choose friends, no. I think that’s going a bit too far. It’s important that adults
understand that children are wiser and more intuitive than we think. They are very
capable of choosing the people they want to spend time with, and the people they
don’t want to be with. Adults should, of course, try to ensure children spend time with
people who are going to be a positive, rather than negative influence in their lives, of
course.

4. How can parents help children make decisions?

Parents can help children make decisions about a whole range of things in life. And
the key here is that they help children make decisions rather than they decide things
for their children. I think that helping them make decisions involves listening to their
reasons and their desires, and trying to help them or guide them towards making the
best decisions that align with those desires. Sometimes the process of
decision-making is something children are not good at, although they do know what
they want ultimately. It’s this logical process of decision-making, and weighing up the
pros and cons of different decisions which is an important skill that adults teach
children.

100 / 116
5. At what age should children start to make decisions?
Children can make decisions about different things at different ages basically. I think
they reach the age of about 4 or 5 and they start to take an active interest in choosing
what they wear, for example. They even start deciding what they do or do not want to
eat – both of these things can be quite challenging for parents, as this causes a lot
more complication than when the kids were toddlers and they just pretty much
accepted whatever clothes you put them in or whatever food you put on their plate. So,
a key process of growing up are these different stages of development when children
begin to actually want to make decisions about their own lives. And this poses quite a
number of challenges for parents.

Describe a game you played in your childhood.

You should say:
What the game was
Where you played it
Who you played it with
And explain how you felt about the game

A game I used to play as a child that I really loved was hide and seek. I know it’s a
fairly common game, and probably everyone in the world has played it as a child. But
I absolutely loved this game. Also, I grew up in a countryside town, and there were
plenty of buildings around where we lived – outhouses, and farm buildings, and also
bushes and trees and a little woodland, and so on. What I mean is, this was absolutely
perfect for playing hide and seek in the spring and summer. There were so many little
nooks and crannies you could hide in, behind walls and trees, and under dusty old
places in the barns and buildings. It was fantastic, and all the children in the area
played it. I usually played with four or five friends of mine, including my cousins,
who lived right in the same area. I always found this game really exciting, and
contrary to what you might think, we did not run out of finding new places to hide.
That’s the great thing about little country towns – you actually have a lot more
freedom growing up there than you do in an apartment in a city. You can invent all
sorts of cool games in woodlands and fields, and you don’t have to go up in elevators
and get through security guards in order to go visit your friends! Everything feels
quite free and easy. And so, that kind of environment is perfect for games like hide
and seek. So, yeah, I felt great about this. I absolutely loved playing this game.

Part 3
1. Compared with computer games, do you think children today still like to play
traditional games?
I think children today, especially city kids, mainly just play computer or phone or
tablet games. They don’t really play traditional games so much, at least not as much
as in the past. However, having said that, in community gardens or residential areas, I

101 / 116
have seen kids playing tag and riding round on bikes and playing tennis and ball
sports and things like this. I’ve also seen girls skipping, too. So, many of these
traditional games still live on, and are, perhaps, kind of timeless.

2. Do young people like to play alone or with others?

If you mean children, then children usually always like to play with others. At least,
most children, I reckon. However, as children get older, I’m not sure, I think they start
to enjoy spending time alone as well as spending time with others. For example,
teenagers can spend hours on their own in their bedrooms watching TV series, or
doing stuff on their phones. And university students, also, spend a lot of time doing
things on their own sometimes, depending on their interests and their personality. So,
it depends really. But children, definitely pretty much always like to play with others
rather than alone.

3. Is winning important in games?

Winning is important to some people more than others. Some people are naturally
highly competitive and so they really feel an urge to win every time they play a game.
However, other people are more gracious when it comes to winning and losing, and
don’t really mind either way. From a moral perspective, I think that taking part in
games and sports and competitions is important and character-building and fun, and
winning isn’t the most important thing. But, not everyone agrees with this – especially
those highly competitive people that feel they must win or they lose face!

4. What can you learn from games?

Games are an excellent way of learning a whole variety of things. They can be highly
educational. Depending on the game, of course. For example, there are tonnes of great
game apps where kids can learn maths or languages or logic in a fun and interesting
way. Also, team games, like basketball, or football, can teach things like collaboration
and cooperation – which is an essential soft skill in life – as we need to learn to work
with other people in life in both our family lives and our future career lives. So, we
can learn a lot from games, and at the same time have fun, and keep our body, or mind,
‘fit’.

Describe a time when you had to talk to a group of people.

You should say:
When it happened
Who you talked to
Why you gave this talk
And explain why you had to give this talk

There is one time I remember so clearly, when I had to give a speech to a group of
people, and it was a big group of people, too! In fact, I was really nervous, at first. I’ll
tell you about it. I joined a society in my city called “Toast Masters” which is a

102 / 116
society specifically dedicated to public speaking. I am not sure why I joined, I think it
was after I had split up with a girlfriend and I was feeling really down, pretty
depressed actually; a friend of mine tried to get me out of the flat to do social things
like going for drinks or playing sports with him. But, you know, I’m not into drinking
and eating out really, and I’m not really into sports. I don’t even find much pleasure in
going to the cinema really. So, anyway, another friend of mine said that he was a
member of this ‘toast masters’ public speaking society, and though it sounded a bit
strange, I thought that it sounded new, interesting, and would perhaps help me boost
my self-esteem as well as helping me develop skills that might come in handy in
university and in a future career. Learning how to formulate ideas logically and
present them to others in a compelling manner, with confidence, is something that can
be useful in many aspects of life. So, I thought, yes, I’ll do this. Anyway, after
attending for a couple of months, it was my turn to prepare and deliver a talk. I
prepared a talk about the history of ancient Persia (something I’m fascinated about),
and delivered the speech in a fairly large theatre to an audience of about 400 people. I
was so nervous, but actually, when I got up on stage to give the talk, after the very
first sentence, I suddenly felt the adrenaline rush through my body, and I became quite
confident, composed and felt in control of myself and the audience. And from then on,
I loved it! I still go to Toast Masters today!

Part 3
1. What benefits does the Internet bring to communication? What about the
disadvantages?
The internet is revolutionary, there’s no doubt about this. It’s completely transformed
society on many levels. It’s hard to say in a brief answer, but, in short, we do almost
all our communication via the internet, almost all of our work, all of our information
exchanges and sourcing and most international business is also done across the
internet. And now, with the sudden advances in AI, then the world of communication
has reached new heights – new levels of information exchange which will transform
society once again – in some good ways, and perhaps in some bad ways. Some of the
disadvantages could be the power of AI spreading misinformation easily, controlling
people’s thoughts and actions too much, or taking over from human jobs, resulting in
greater unemployment in societies. So, I think the internet is at the core of all this –
and we are heading towards challenging times in terms of how the internet will
dominate our lives in new ways.

2. Which one is better, being a speaker or a listener?

Well, that completely depends on your personality – some people are more inclined to
be great speakers, and others, great listeners. In the world today, there should be room
for people of all different dispositions and tendencies. I think that, in an ideal world,
being a great speaker and a great listener would be perfect, but hey, we cannot expect
everyone to be perfect can we? Both skills are really important, but, in my honest
opinion, I think that being a good listener is something that more people need practice
at – so many misunderstandings derive from people not actually listening and

103 / 116
properly thinking – active listening, we call it – to what other people are saying and
how other people are feeling. So, if I’m forced to conclude which one is the better
quality, I’d have to say being a good listener.

3. How important it is to be a good listener in communication?

Like I said, a lot of people are so busy thinking about what they want to say that they
fail to properly listen to what others are saying and how others are feeling. Listening
is a skill that perhaps we don’t teach so well, or at least in the right way. We are taught
to listen and obey teachers and parents and authorities, but this is different to real
active listening. Real, mature, active listening is about genuinely focusing on what
others are saying and how they feel – the feelings behind the words – and seeking to
develop a quality of greater understanding of other people. This is why, if we are to
communicate well, especially in relationships and tense cross-cultural contexts, we
need to learn to listen properly.

4. What qualities do people need to speak in public?

To speak well in public there are a number of qualities that people should have or at
least strive to nurture. Firstly, confidence. A balanced, composed confidence. This is
important. And you gain confidence by preparing well, by knowing what you want to
say and calmly preparing it, or considering it well. Another important quality is
patience – you do not need to always rush to get your point across to others – the
important thing is creating an atmosphere that encourages others to listen, and this can
be done through appealing to the audience with humour, a personal anecdote or two,
and an attitude of calm patience. Passion is the third quality I’d say that makes a good
speaker. A genuine sincere passion, one that is not fake or contrived, but one that
comes across naturally. I think these are the qualities that really make a good public
speaker.

5. What kinds of people often give speeches?

A whole range of different people in society often give speeches. For example,
politicians are always giving speeches – often very formulaic speeches that are
televised or given to groups of reporters. Academics give speeches at conferences, too.
Presenting ideas about new academic theories or points they wish to share with others
to help contribute to the development of an academic field of interest. And thirdly, I’d
say speeches are given on special occasions, at weddings! That’s a more “everyday
person’s” example of when we all might have to give a speech at some point in our
lives – either at our own wedding or at the wedding of a family member. So, I’d say
those are three examples of the “kinds of people” and situations where people may
give speeches.

104 / 116
 Describe an exciting adventure you would like to go on.
You should say:
Where you want to go
Who you want to go there with
When you want to do this
And explain why you want to go on this adventure

An adventure I would love to go on, that I’ve been thinking about for a while now is a
road trip across China, through the desserts of Xinjiang and up into the grasslands in
Mongolia. I once saw a documentary on TV featuring a group of people who went in
two 4-by-4s and travelling hundreds, actually thousands probably, of miles on such a
trip, camping out along the way, sometimes staying in family homes, guest houses and
lodges along the way. I believe this is a fantastic way to really experience the vastness
and variety of my country, the diverse cultures, and the genuine local experiences you
have when you travel by car rather than take public transport. This is one of the main
reasons I would like to do a trip in this way, and why I think it would be a great
adventure – you always see the ‘real life’ when you go off the beaten track and away
from the usual tourist trails. I would like to do this probably in spring when the
weather is generally good but not too hot. Winter would be a cold time of year to do
the trip and the peak of summer might be way too hot, especially in certain regions.
So, to get the most out of the trip and enjoy it to the maximum, choosing the best time
of year is important. I would choose to go on this trip with a few friends, my cousin
and my uncle. I’d love to do it with my cousin and uncle because I know they share
the same kinds of interests and philosophy of life as I do, and they’re also really good
at driving and connecting with diverse people and dealing with some of the challenges
that travel brings. My friends, I just love their company and would like to share such
an adventure with them. So, yes, that’s an adventure I actually do intend to do in the
next year or two.

Part 3
1. Do you think children are more interested in adventurous stories?
Children definitely enjoy stories that are about adventure and heroism and things like
this. They enjoy seeing challenges but also they enjoy the victories when a hero finds
a treasure, marries a prince or princess or defeats an enemy after a big struggle. I think
that everyone enjoys this kind of thing, but children especially.

2. Why are some children addicted to adventurous games?

Children and indeed young people and teenagers can become really addicted to
computer games, especially fantasy adventure ones. They get addicted for a few
reasons, I think. One reason is that they are bored and stuck in apartments in cities
without a really interesting or active social life and this makes such games even more
inspiring and appealing. Another reason is that these games are heavily marketed at
young people today and often online gaming enables young people to connect with

105 / 116
each other without leaving their own bedrooms – young people can be pretty lazy – so
it’s only too easy for them to get on their game machines and get sucked into the
games, then addicted.

3. Why do some people prefer to read adventure books rather than actually take an
adventure?
Well, the reason is fairly simple – adventure books, like films, are safe – I mean, you
are watching other people go on adventures rather than having to go through it all
yourself! The reality of adventures is rather different than the fantasy, let’s put it that
way. Watching a hero in a film go through quite a challenging and difficult situation is
thrilling and exciting, but going through all that oneself, well.. is a different story,
really.

4. Does experiencing adventures broaden people’s horizons?

I believe it most certainly does. We all learn a lot from our life experiences, whatever
those experiences might be; and challenging and adventurous experiences can be
quite formative and educational – we learn from them. So, in this sense, our horizons
can be broadened by experiencing adventures. On the other hand, experiencing
adventures can cause us quite a bit of stress, as well – you know, adventures are not
always a positive thing! It really depends on what kinds of adventures we are talking
about!

Describe an occasion when you got incorrect information.

You should say:
Why you need this information
How you got it
How you found it was incorrect
And how you felt about this experience

The time I remember very clearly, when I was given incorrect information was when I
bought some cinema tickets to see a blockbuster movie, over the phone. I am
absolutely certain it was not my mistake – honestly – but the cinema ticket office
insisted it was not their fault. Anyway, I’ll tell you what happened. It was quite a few
years ago. I called the box office and decided to buy the tickets over the phone, giving
them my bank details and so forth. The lady on the phone gave me a schedule for the
film I wanted to see (Guardian of the Galaxy) and I selected the time that suited me
best. 530pm, on Saturday. It was for a group of friends, all of us together. I then paid
over the phone with my card, and then the lady gave me a reference number and said I
could collect the tickets on the day, before the film, on arrival. Saturday came around,
and we all got together really excited about seeing the film. We got to the cinema, and
I gave them my reference number and they told me that that film had stopped
screening the day before, and was not on at 5.30pm or any other time that day – the
last day of screening was the previous day. I couldn’t believe it. In fact, none of my

106 / 116
friends could believe it, and they were annoyed with me because they thought it must
be me who made the mistake. The person in the ticket office was insistent it was not
their mistake and did not want to give me a refund, even. So, we got into an argument,
which really spoilt my mood, and me and my friends went off to a restaurant instead,
ate a meal and then went out for drinks. Now, in retrospect, it doesn’t seem like a big
deal, but at the time I was absolutely livid.

Part 3
1. What kinds of websites do you use to acquire information?
Today I almost always use websites to buy things – online shopping is very popular
today. There are a host of different websites people can use today. Some sell all sorts
of products from household items to clothing and accessories. Others sell things like
theatre and cinema tickets and even flights and holiday packages. I use them all,
depending on that I want to buy. And I use them all to get information about the
products before buying them, and that’s the key thing, most of the websites I use to
acquire information are websites that give me information about things I want to buy.
For my studies I guess I do use other websites which give me information about, you
know, academic sources which help me with my assignments, but generally the
websites I use for information are those which sell products that I would like to buy.

2. Why do some people not believe information online?

I think that today online information is usually quite reliable, but at the same time,
you have to be careful. I can understand why some people remain skeptical – some of
their reasons makes sense, and some of their reasons are paranoia. Some people try to
scam you online, so you have to make sure that the company you are buying from is
official and legitimate. That’s the main thing. I think today this is easier to verify, so
I’m not really so worried, but some people still worry about this, especially the older
generation who are not so savvy when it comes to technology.

3. What is the influence of incorrect information?

Incorrect information can make you feel mistrusting of the source if you want
something from them in the future. This is why online shopping sites almost always
have a review system so you can look at the experiences of previous buyers and see
their honest feedback. This means you can gain insights into the reliability of sites
from real customers. So, incorrect information does have a negative influence on
people and causes mistrust in the platform or products, but these online review
systems provide a good solution to that problem, I think.

4. What kinds of information are often spread through text messages and emails?
All sorts! Text messages and emails are useful for personal information or business
information, and also are exploited and used by advertising companies as well. So,
like most channels of communication, they can be used for fair means or foul.
Information spreads fast online, too – it’s the common way for everyone to
communicate today, about almost anything they need to communicate about.

107 / 116
5. What kinds of jobs require staff to spread information to others?
I am not sure if you mean some sort of chain marketing emails – companies that
specialize in sending emails to people to advertise products, deals and services.
Maybe this is what you mean. So, I’d say customer service, sales jobs, marketing jobs,
these are the main jobs that require people to send out information to people, often
blindly. I think they call it cold selling… I’m not sure what the expression is off hand.

Describe a traditional celebration you enjoy in your country that

you enjoy.
You should say:
What it is
What people do in this celebration
Who you celebrate it with
And explain why you enjoy it

A traditional celebration that I really enjoy in my country is Lantern Festival. Lantern

Festival falls on the 15th day of the Chinese lunar new year. It is celebrated
nationwide, and in one way or another in other Asian countries. The festival dates
back to the Han dynasty where Buddhist monks would hang lanterns outside the
temples and homes symbolizing peace, reconciliation and forgiveness, but I'm not
sure if everyone remembers these virtuous roots today – but we still have a wonderful
feeling during the festival, anyway. In more traditional places, especially in the south
of China, you can see houses and buildings and some streets all adorned with different
coloured lanterns. It's an amazing sight. And in some countryside places, when lantern
festival comes there are all sorts of activities during the day and at night you can see
the lanterns stretched right into the countryside in the nighttime – people turn off the
lights of their houses and just have the lanterns on so they can see the lights from all
the villages around the area. On Lantern Festival people typically eat a dish called
Yuanxiao or Tangyuan, which are sweet rice balls filled with dates or nuts or fruits, in
a sweet sticky sort of sauce or juice. Today, in cities, it may not be so common to
adorn your home with lanterns, but most people eat tangyuan, and there are almost
always one or two parks where there are beautiful displays of coloured lanterns. As
the years go by I've seen the lantern displays get increasingly artistic and interesting
too. So, I enjoy going to see those. I enjoy the festival very much, and I take great
delight in trying to relive the old traditions, as well. I kind of wish more young people
would appreciate and help keep some of these old customs alive – not just eating the
food at festivals, or drinking wine, but actually indulging in some of the old cultural
customs like decorating the home, and things like this.

Part 3
1. Are there any festivals that have already disappeared in your country?
Well, I guess there are all sorts of minor festivals that don’t get observed today. I can’t

108 / 116
think of the names of these off-hand, but I do know that there are a lot of little
Buddhist festivals which are not celebrated anymore by the majority of people,
although they might be celebrated in temples by monks and nuns and followers of the
religions. I think that as countries develop, they are bound to lose touch with some of
the traditions, which is a bit sad really, but inevitable at the same time. It’s up to the
young people to continue to respect our national traditions and keep teaching them to
their kids, in turn.

2. Why do you think some traditional festivals are still celebrated by people (while
others already disappeared)?
I think some festivals remain popular because they still have an enduring meaning for
people. Whether this is because the government have made them into national
holidays, or not, I am not sure. But I tend to think that the festivals that have survived
are the ones that have been officially added to the national calendar, and therefore
have become official holidays, so people definitely adhere to them, companies must
follow them and give people time off work, and so they live on and are likely to
continue to live on. Those festivals that have not been officially recognized as
holidays in the national calendar are more likely to disappear because everyone
continues to go to work and basically doesn’t have time to put aside to celebrate them
as special occasions.

3. Why should children learn about traditions?

Children should learn about history and culture and national traditions simply because
this is what makes one country unique. Every country is unique in one way or another,
and history is a way to help preserve the identity of a people. It’s not good to forget
about our history, especially the important turning points in the year, and traditions
mark these turning points and become symbols of something important to us.

4. Are there any special music and food involved when people celebrate traditional
festivals?
Yes, almost always there are special foods first and foremost. That’s the key thing
when there is a national holiday or festival. Music, well, most families I know don’t
really care that much about music, but if you are a member of one of the ethnic
minorities, or you attend an event held in certain towns or regions where that minority
is prevalent, then yes you will definitely see traditional music being played, either on
a music system or actually by the musicians playing real instruments. Personally, I
love music and I wish there were more live performances of traditional music when
we have festivals – this is something that has died out a bit.

109 / 116
 Describe a time when you saved money to buy an expensive gift
for others.
You should say:
What it was
Why you wanted to buy this gift
How long you saved money for it
And explain how you felt when you bought the gift

I can’t think of much really. The only thing that really comes to mind is a painting that
I bought for my father when he was sick, about ten years ago. You see, my father got
really sick when I was about 12 years old, and he was in bed perhaps for weeks,
maybe even longer, maybe about 2 months. Anyway, he was in bed a long time, and
very sick. It was a sad occasion really. But, my mother and I spent a lot of our time
looking after him, and feeding him and making him feel more positive as much as we
could. I said to my mother that I think we should at least make the bedroom look more
attractive, seeing as he’s stuck in that one room all the time, day in, day out. So, I
started to save up my pocket money – well, actually, I counted the pocket money I
already saved and added to it, but anyway, I counted all this pocket money and after a
couple more weeks of adding to it, my mother and I went to a big art market which
was just outside of the city, and chose a painting of a lady in a golden gown… it was a
sort of Buddhist painting, actually. A modern version of a traditional Buddhist monk,
but a female one, or at least one that looked female. It sounds a bit strange but my
father has always been quite an artistic person and has a love for traditional arts and
culture, too, so we knew he would appreciate this modern painting about a traditional
topic. So, we bought this painting. We took it to a place in town to get it framed in a
golden-coloured frame and presented it to him as a gift. He was absolutely delighted.
We then hung it on the wall opposite the bed, so that he could see the painting when
he was lying in bed. Perhaps you’ll think I’m superstitious, but he very quickly started
to recover after that, and my mother and I still sustain that his recovery was partially
due to the painting we hung up there for him. So, yeah, this is one item, which was
expensive, that I saved money to buy as a gift for someone….. my father, when he
was sick in bed for quite a long time, and the painting, come to mind.

Part 3
1. Are you good at saving money?
I am not that good, generally no. Even in the example I’ve just told you about I guess
I didn’t really save up with any dedicated effort, I just had a collection of money that I
had been given over a period of a few special occasions that I kept in one place.
Generally, I’d say I am not that good at saving money – not these days anyway. I
think some people are; some people, including my brother, as one example, are more
money-minded and appreciate, or realise, the value of money from a younger age.
I’ve never really been that kind of person, myself.

110 / 116
2. Do you think it is hard for people to save money nowadays?
I think that the cost of living is increasing rapidly, and quite significantly, and so it’s
harder to save money than it used to be, say, in the late 1980s, when China was going
through quite a boom. I think that we have a much higher quality of life nowadays,
but that also means we have to spend more to maintain it, and buy all the things that
sustain that life. The quality of food and other products has increased a lot, which is
fantastic, but also that means that prices have gone up, too, so people don’t generally
save money so easily, unless, of course, they are already pretty rich.

3. Do you think children should have pocket money?

Yes, I think that a certain amount of pocket money is good for children. I mean, I
don’t think that parents should just give money to children all the time, but I do
believe that a little bit on special occasions is a good way to educate children about
the value of money and the importance of saving and basic money-management. So, I
think it’s good that parents give a bit of money to kids to try to encourage an
awareness of the importance of being a little bit money-conscious.

4. What do young people save money for?

Young people usually like to save money to buy electronic items like tablets and
things today. Well, I mean teenagers. I guess we are talking about teenagers, or
university students here. I think that they often want to get the latest electronic
gadgets and keep them updated. Another thing that young people save up for might be
things like little trips or holidays with their friends. When people are university-age,
they tend to like to go away with their friends somewhere, not just their family – like
a weekend at a resort on the beach, or a climbing holiday for a few days with a group
of friends who like hiking, maybe – stuff like this. I think this also requires some
savings, and so some young people, at least people I know, might save up for a short
trip like this, too. Other young people, especially girls, will save up to buy fashion
accessories or things to make them look attractive – perhaps some shoes, a handbag…
a nice top or skirt for summer. Things like this.

Describe an important decision you made in life.

You should say:
What the decision was
Why you made this decision
How you made this decision
And explain why this decision was important

An important decision I made in my life was a few years ago. I made the decision to
study in Chengdu, my home city, at university, and not take up a place university in
Beijing. This was a tough decision to make because a huge part of me wanted to go to
live in Beijing and study there, and some people said it would be a great opportunity
for me as the university that offered me a place there was more prestigious than the

111 / 116
one in my home city - at least ‘on paper’, as they say. However, I wanted to stay close
to my parents because my father is really sick and I am an only child, and I wanted to
stay around and help my mother take care of him while he recovers – if he recovers,
which I hope he does. So, I took the place in Chengdu and not Beijing. Actually, I do
not regret my decision at all. I am quite close to my family, and I feel that I want to be
around them, especially as my dad is not well. Also, I believe that the expense and the
stress of living in the big city would be quite overwhelming and possibly a distraction
from my studies. So, all in all, I think I made a good decision and I don’t feel in the
slightest bit remorseful about having made this decision. It’s an important decision,
because, as you know, the university you choose to study in can have a big impact on
your future career path and your life in general. But, I am someone who always looks
to the future and doesn’t look back with regrets, so I am not particularly worried about
this, and I’m loving my course and enjoying my classmates and teachers, and also
able to do a bit of work on the side, save money and be with my parents, especially
my dad, and help around the home. So, I’m happy with my decision and feel assured
it was the right decision to make.

Part 3
1. What important decisions do young people need to make after graduation?
Young people have to make a number of important decisions after graduation. At least
traditionally or typically speaking. Firstly, they might have to have a serious think
about the kind of career they would like to pursue, or at least the kind of job they
might do while they are thinking about their career. Secondly, they may also be
getting towards the age when they must start thinking about marriage, if they have
already found a girlfriend or boyfriend, especially if their parents are really
conventional and putting pressure on them. Parents tend to do this where I’m from. So,
there are the two main big life decisions that usually come at some point in the year or
two after graduation, I’d say.

2. Who can children turn to for help when making decisions?

Children can ideally turn to teachers and parents. Probably parents, mainly, as
teachers are very busy with thousands of other children they have to think about and
very busy. But there are some teachers who take time to give kids advice on things
like making small or large decisions in life, depending on where the school is, what
the environment is like and what kind of school culture exists there. And, of course,
the personality and inclinations of the teachers themselves. But, for the most part, the
people that kids can turn to are usually their parents or perhaps their aunts and uncles
and even grandparents sometimes.

3. Do you think children sometimes have to make important decisions?

Children need to make less important decisions in the grand scheme of things, but still
the decisions they have to make are important to them at the time, and that must be
remembered. Children, at least where I am from, have to decide things like which
after-school club they want to join, which kinds of sports or leisure activities they

112 / 116
might like to do on the weekend and stuff like this. Some parents today give their
children more free choice about these things than we had in the past – also because
there are more options today than there used to be. So, children are being brought up
to be a little more autonomous and make more decisions themselves about this kind of
thing, most certainly.

4. Do you think advertisements influence our decisions on shopping?

Adverts most certainly have a strong influence on our shopping habits. Perhaps we
underestimate that influence a lot of the time. I mean, we don’t necessarily realise the
power of advertising as adverts are so ubiquitous we almost take them for granted and
don’t even realise (or admit) that the ideas being marketed to us are actually going
into our heads and influencing our choices of what to buy. I think that this is the
insidious side of some marketing – it is designed to make us feel we need to buy
certain products in order to make our lives better, or in order to compete with other
people or maintain certain social standards and not look like we are “behind the
times” or “not keeping up with our peers”. Advertising plays on these human
tendencies and weaknesses sometimes, and therefore does have an influence on our
buying habits.

Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free time when you were young.
You should say:
What it was
Where you did it
Who you did it with
And explain why you enjoyed it

Well, I think I’m still young, to be fair! Haha. But anyway, an activity that I used to
enjoy when I was younger, in my first year at university, was dancing. I used to attend
a salsa dance class that was run by one of the South American teachers on campus – I
think she was from Ecuador. I can’t recall exactly. Anyway, I loved going to this salsa
dance class. It took place two evenings a week, and was a great way to stay healthy
and fit, enjoy great music, and get to know other people. Because a lot of these kind
of dances are interactive – men and women dance together as partners, and change
partners too – then it’s a really good way to break the ice with people of the opposite
sex and become friends, or maybe more… We would often go out for drinks after the
salsa evenings, and sometimes stay out late chatting, or even clubbing in the city. So,
yeah, these evenings I particularly enjoyed, and for a while the dance society at
university was one of the most important things in my life – apart from studying and
all that. It was my social outlet as well as my form of regular exercise, and a nice
chance to get involved in something more international. It’s a shame that I don’t seem
to get time to do something like that now, really. Or at least I don’t create the time and
opportunity. Maybe I should make the effort – just thinking about it makes me feel a
bit nostalgic actually. I had such a good time in those years! And became quite a

113 / 116
really good dancer!

Part 3
1. Is it important to take a break during work or study?
It’s very important yes! Anyone that says people should work like machines and that’s
a sign of dedication and diligence is talking nonsense! There was a phase a few years
ago when several big bosses of tech companies in China were praising the “wolf”
spirit of working and that started a ridiculous phase of some companies working a 996
working week – it was a perfect example of a totally unscientific and impractical idea
becoming popular for the sake of basically companies getting staff who would work
for them all the hours under the sun at the expense of the rest of their lives. Everybody
knows that people perform better at work if they have a good work life balance…
with the possible exception of a few individuals, geeks, or CEOs that stand to make
more billions if they stay up longer!

2. Are there more activities for young people to do now than 20 years ago?
Yes, of course, there is a lot to do today. However, I’m not sure that people take the
chances to use their free time productively. Sometimes I feel that when there are less
options people appreciate and make the most of their free time more. Today we have
so many options, and such a high level of digital connectivity, I think people get lazy
– in fact, I think young people spend far too much time on the cellphones and not
enough time doing other activities, with other people, in person.

3. Do adults and children have enough time for leisure activities nowadays?
Some do, some don’t. I think that a lot of people don’t to be honest. I think there is a
trend in the past ten years in my country where children and adults are pushed far too
hard to supposedly maintain a “higher” standard of living – but in reality, they are just
working all hours to try to compete with others in order to maintain the same standard
of living and not lose it, or not fall behind others. It’s a shame really. I think this has
driven people to lose sight of the value of free time and leisure, and frankly all the
work and study efforts are not really worth it for many. Not anymore.

4. What types of exercise do people in your country often do?

It depends what types of people you’re talking about. People exercise in different
ways. Older people often go to the park, do some dancing or use these simple exercise
machines in their communities. Young people do all sorts – they go to the gym, they
play basketball, football or other competitive sports… other people like to go jogging,
or cycling or … there are lots of popular activities that people do here – pretty much
the same as anywhere in the world.

114 / 116