Makkar IELTS

Contact for Online IELTS coaching: https://www.ieltsking.
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Speaking guesswork Sep-Dec 2022 by IELTSKING
Speaking Guessbook (September to

December 2022)By ieltsking
Copyright
All rights reserved with the Author. It is illegal to share this ebook in public,
whether whole or in part. Anyone found doing so might face legal consequences.
Any Facebook pages/groups or Instagram accounts found sharing this ebook
might face complaints lodged against them, and further legal action.
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Contact for Online IELTS coaching: https://www.ieltsking.in/contact
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING

This is only a tentative list of September to December 2022 exam questions. You
may beasked questions that are not part of this list.
Speaking Guesswork
We, at Ieltsking, are well aware of the challenges students face in their Speaking
Module. While sometimes it is a lack of impressive ideas, at other times students
struggle with poor vocabulary leading to ineffective communication.
Our Speaking Handbook is an attempt to solve all your Speaking worries and give
you the ultimate key to a high band performance in your Speaking test.
What it contains
A comprehensive list of probable questions with sample answers for Parts 1,2 and 3
for September to December 2022.
Extensive range of vocabulary, idioms, phrasal verbs, complex sentence structures

and idea inputs to give you the best tools for optimal performance.
How it can help you
Read through the sample answers. Read aloud a few times noting the words used
and the sentence structures till you get a grip of the language used. As you continue
to do this, you will find that your language quality has improved tremendously and
you can now speak fluently and express your ideas freely.
Memorising the answers would not serve the purpose. So our advice to you is to re-
frain from blindly mugging up the notes. Use them as signposts and interact with the
material trying to get a feel of the language.
We would also like to clarify that some words may have multiple meanings, but we
have given only the one that is apt for the context.
We are confident of the quality of our Speaking Handbook and its ability to take your
speaking skills several notches higher.
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Hi students, I wish you all the best for your exams. Don’t approach the IELTS
exam with fear and anxiety. Stay positive, work hard and believe that you
can do it. This journey towards your required Band Score is challenging and
exciting at the same time. Enjoy it.
Mani Dhaliwal
Founder&CEO “IELTSKING”
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Contents
Sep to Dec 2022 Guesswork
1. Describe a time when you had to go to see a doctor.
2. Describe an appointment that was put ahead of schedule.
3. Describe a handmade gift you gave to a friend or relative.
4. Describe how you behaved in a stressful situation.
5. Describe a natural calamity that you fear
6. Talk about an own thing which would like to remove
7. Describe a situation you were not allowed to use your cell phone.
8. Describe an outdoor sport that you haven’t done yet and would like to do
in the future.
9. Describe a faraway place that you would like to visit
10 A visit you made using public transport
11 Describe plant grown in your country you think is important
12 Describe idea of your dream vacation
13 Describe a person who works on protecting environment
14 Describe an activity you enjoy doing when you alone
15 Talk about your teenager friend
16 Talk about something you would like to get replaced
17 Describe the time when someone took a good photograph of you.
18 Describe a time when you saw lots of people smiling
19 Talk about a wish that you could not accomplish for a long time
20 Talk about an English lesson you enjoyed or Describe an English class,
seminar or training session that you enjoyed.
21 Describe a shop that has opened in your hometown
22 A Radio or TV programme you like to talk to others with
23 Describe a couple who you think have a happy marriage
24 Talk about a day off that you took to relax from work
25.TALK ABOUT A DEBATABLE ISSUE
26. Describe a Fountain you really liked
27. Talk about a time when you were asked opinion in a survey
28. Talk about A Joke That Made You Laugh
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9 Band Sample Answers
1 A time you were stuck in a traffic jam ................................................................... 13

2 Describe an invention that has changed how people live ....................................15
3 Describe a family member you would like to work with in the future .................... 18
4 Talk about an important river or lake in your country or hometown...................... 21
5 Talk about a traditional object of your country ...................................................... 24
6 Describe a positive change in your life ................................................................ 27
7 Describe an interesting neighbour........................................................................ 30
8 Describe a chocolate you didn’t like ..................................................................... 33
9 Describe a plant, vegetable or crop you are familiar with..................................... 35
10 Describe a competition you would like to take part in ......................................... 37
11 A time when you observed the stars ................................................................... 40
12 Talk about a special day which was not that expensive
or on which you did not spend a lot of money .................................................... 43
13 Describe something that helps you concentrate ................................................. 47
14 Describe an activity you do to keep fit ................................................................ 50
15 Describe a fishing area you visited ......................................................................53
16 Describe an introvert whom you know ................................................................ 55
17 Describe something that saves your time ........................................................... 58
18 Describe a friend you like to talk with .................................................................. 61
19 Describe something important that you lost ........................................................ 64
20 Describe an interesting thing you have learned from a foreign culture ............... 66
21 Describe an occasion when you got a positive feedback for work that you did. 68
22 Describe a popular/well known person in your country ....................................... 71
23 Describe a time when you helped a child ............................................................ 74
24 Describe something that surprised you ............................................................... 76
25 Describe a person you only met once and want to know more about ................. 78
26 Describe an ambition that you haven’t achieved ................................................ 80
27 Describe a time when you organized a happy event successfully ......................82
28 Describe something you received for free .......................................................... 85
29 Describe a famous person you are interested in ................................................. 87
30 Describe a resolution you made in the new year ................................................ 90
31 Describe an interesting song ...............................................................................92
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32 Describe a thing you cannot live without (other than your phone or computer) ..... 95
33 Describe something that was broken in your home and then repaired .................. 97
34 Describe a toy you liked in childhood ..................................................................... 99
35 Describe a long walk you had .............................................................................. 102
36 Describe a person you follow on social media ..................................................... 105
37 Describe a thing you did to learn another language ............................................ 108
38 Describe a course that impressed you a lot ........................................................ 111
39 Describe a special cake you received from someone .......................................... 113
40 Describe an interesting conversation you had with a friend .................................116
41 Describe a place in a village you visited.............................................................. 119
42 Describe a skill you learned from an older person .............................................. 122
43 Describe an item of clothing someone gave you................................................. 124
44 Describe a city you think is very interesting ......................................................... 126
45 Describe a rule that you don’t like ........................................................................ 129
46 Describe someone you really like to spend time with.......................................... 132
47 Describe a time you visited a new place ............................................................. 135
48 Describe a house or apartment you would like to live in ..................................... 137
49 Describe a person who contributes to society ..................................................... 140
50 Describe a story someone told you and you remember ...................................... 143
51 Describe a gift you would like to buy for your friend ............................................ 146
52 Describe a time when you moved to a new home or school ............................... 148
53 Describe a time when you felt proud of a family member ....................................151
54 Describe an activity you do that wastes your time ............................................... 153
55 Describe a skill that was difficult to learn..............................................................155
56 Describe the person who impressed you the
most when you were in primary school ............................................................... 158
57 Describe an item on which you spent more than expected ................................ 160
58 Describe a difficult thing you did..........................................................................163
59 Describe a time you were friendly to someone you didn’t like............................. 166
60 Describe a plan in your life not related to work or study...................................... 168
61 Describe a person who solved a problem in a smart way ................................... 170
62 Describe a useful or exciting book you read .......................................................173
63 Describe a difficult decision you once made ........................................................ 175
64 Talk about an art or craft activity you had at school ............................................. 178
65 Describe an article you have read about health ................................................... 181
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66 Describe a time when you woke up ...................................................................183

67 Describe a time you bought something from a street market ............................ 185
68 Describe a time you were waiting for
something special that would happen ............................................................... 188
69 Describe a creative person whose work you admire ......................................... 190
70 Describe a cafe you like to visit ......................................................................... 192
71 Describe someone older than you, whom you admire ...................................... 194
72 Describe a town or city you would like to live in the future ................................ 197
73 Describe a foreign person you have heard about
or known who you think is interesting................................................................ 199
74 Describe an activity that you do after school/work ........................................... 202
75 Describe a piece of equipment that is important in your home ......................... 204
76 Describe a place you visited on vacation ......................................................... 207
77 Describe a quiet place you like to spend your time in ......................................210
78 Describe a law on environmental protection .................................................... 212
79 Describe an argument two of your friends had.................................................. 215
80 Describe a natural talent you want to improve (like sports or music) ................ 218
81 Describe a puzzle (a jigsaw, crosword,etc) which you play .............................. 221
82 Describe a time when you shared something with another person .................. 223
83 Describe an occasion when you were not allowed to use you mobile phone .. 226
84 Describe an occasion when many people were smiling ....................................228
85 Describe a time you saw something interesting on social media ...................... 230
86 Describe a skill you can teach others ................................................................ 232
87 Describe a time when you needed to use your imagination .............................. 235
Warm Up Questions (Part-1).................. 239

1 Your home / accommodation ............................................................................... 240
2 Your work or study ............................................................................................... 241
3 Mirrors ................................................................................................................. 242
4 Watch .................................................................................................................. 242
5 Talent ................................................................................................................... 243
6 Books .................................................................................................................. 243
7 Watching sports programmes.............................................................................. 244
8 Old Buildings ....................................................................................................... 245
9 Meeting places .................................................................................................... 245
10 Computers ......................................................................................................... 245
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11 Collecting things ................................................................................................... 247

12 Boring things ......................................................................................................... 247
13 Advertisements .....................................................................................................247
14 Films .................................................................................................................... 248
15 Your country..........................................................................................................249
16 Spending time with others ................................................................................... 249
17 Pets and Animals ..................................................................................................250
18 Headphones ......................................................................................................... 250
19 Shoes ................................................................................................................... 251
20 Apps ..................................................................................................................... 252
21 Colour ....................................................................................................................252
22 Flowers ..................................................................................................................253
23 Barbecue .............................................................................................................. 254
24 Car trip ................................................................................................................... 254
25 Relaxing ............................................................................................................... 255
26 Special Costumes ................................................................................................ 255
27 Wallet.................................................................................................................... 256
28 Primary School ..................................................................................................... 257
29 Environment Protection ........................................................................................ 257
30 Your living area ..................................................................................................... 258
31 List ......................................................................................................................... 259
32 New Year .............................................................................................................. 259
33 Decorating your house ......................................................................................... 260
34 Window view.......................................................................................................... 261
35 Tidiness ............................................................................................................... 261
36 Reading ................................................................................................................ 262
37 Waking up early .....................................................................................................262
38 Singing ................................................................................................................. 263
39 Staying Happy ...................................................................................................... 263
40 Farm .................................................................................................................... 264
41 Furniture ............................................................................................................... 265
42 Stages of life......................................................................................................... 265
43 Handwriting .......................................................................................................... 266
44 Neighbours ........................................................................................................... 266
45 Remembering names ........................................................................................... 268
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46 New activities ..................................................................................................... 268

47 Trees ..................................................................................................................269
48 History ................................................................................................................ 269
49 Picnic .................................................................................................................. 270
50 Mathematics ....................................................................................................... 271
51 Text Messaging ................................................................................................... 271
52 Recycling ............................................................................................................ 272
53 Taking a break .................................................................................................... 272
54 Plans................................................................................................................... 273
55 Fishing ................................................................................................................ 274
56 Water Sports....................................................................................................... 274
57 Running .............................................................................................................. 275
58 Cake/ Desserts ................................................................................................... 276
59 Science ...............................................................................................................276
60 Laughter/ Jokes ................................................................................................. 277
61 Spending time alone ........................................................................................... 278
62 Haircut .............................................................................................................. 278
63 Parks .................................................................................................................. 279
64 Sports .................................................................................................................279
65 Patience ............................................................................................................. 280
66 Plans.................................................................................................................. 281
67 Art .......................................................................................................................281
68 Numbers .............................................................................................................282
69 Scenery .............................................................................................................. 282
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Sep to Dec 2022 Guesswork

All 6.5+ sample answers
Note: these Cue cards are provided by the students who have done their
speaking exam.
1. Describe a time when you had to go to see

a doctor.
 You should say-
 What was the problem?
 When did it happen?
 How did you feel about it?
Well, anyone does not like to go to a hospital and see a doctor but,
sometimes, we have to see a doctor. Here, I would like to talk about a time
when I had to go to the hospital. I recently had visited a doctor. Dr. Johan
one locality doctor I had suffered from fever, headache and continue
sneezing.
I had to go. I did not want to go but, I had to go. I visited the hospital and
wanted for twenty minutes outside Dr. Johan’s chamber. Finally, I went into
the chamber. Dr.Johan had checked up my body temperature and infection
in my throat. then, he said to me that it was just normal viral infection due to
changes of season. he took his prescription pad and wrote some medicine.
After it, he recommended me that do not drink cold water, cold beverages,
and fried food as well as spicy also. I asked him how long I might be
healed, then he just little smiled. he told me for rest as well as, visit for a
checkup after three days. I had felt very good and comfortable. Then, I
visited the hospital after three days and I was normal. so, I started a
connection on my daily works without heavy head and fever.
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2. Describe an appointment that was put ahead

of schedule.
You should say-
 What was this appointment?
 Why had it put ahead of schedule?
 How did you feel about it?
Well, we fix a time for appointments many times. It is important to attend a

fixed appointment because time is very precious. But some times we have
to cancel it or put it ahead of schedule. Here I would like to talk about such
a time when my appointment was put ahead of schedule due to some
reasons. I explain it briefly.
About two months ago, I applied for the job of a computer teacher in a well-
reputed school named Preet Convent School. I sent a Resume to that
school’s principal. then, the principal called me via phone and informed me
that your interview for a teacher is after 7 days. I thanked him. I thought that
I have enough time to prepare for this interview.
I decided that I will do all the preparations two days from the interview.
Then, I indulged in the other works. I just forgot about that interview. But
suddenly, after three days, a teacher from Preet Convent School called me
and told me that your interview will be tomorrow. I felt so shocked. I did not
know what I have to do?
Then, I said about this problem to my mom, she told me to do it calmly. So,
the next day, I went to attend the interview which was put ahead of
schedule. The principal took my interview and answered all his questions
very patiently. He told me about the matter that why he put this interview
ahead of schedule. Actually, that principal is a member of a musical group
and the next day, he has to go to London to present a performance there.
So, he did it. he appreciated me for behaving patiently. I thanked her. So,
after one week from this interview, the Principal sent me an email in which
he said to me to join the job of a teacher in his school. I felt immensely glad.
I thanked him again.
All in all, that was the time when my interview was put ahead of schedule
due to some reasons.
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3. Describe a handmade gift you gave to a

friend or relative.
You should say:
 what the gift was
 who you gave it to and when
 how you made it by hand
Well, the gift was a wooden doll (I must confess that doll did not look that
great as I made it when I was only 15 years old and I had little skills making
such things). Yet my sister loved it so much and felt so proud for making
this gift for her. It was a late winter evening probably in 2001 when I took
my Bister to the market to buy her a pair of shoes. On our way back home,
she showed me a large doll displayed in a fancy toy shop She told me that
she would love to own a doll like that She knew the price of that doll would
be really high and did not have enough money to actually buy her that doll
This event made me sad a lot and I asked my father, who lived in a different
city for his job to buy her a doll. He probably forgot about the doll and did
not send any doll in the next two weeks. My sister's birthday was
approaching and I wanted to make her a beautiful doll before her birthday, I
used to make boats, wooden pens, and other types of toys in my childhood
as a passion but making a doll was something I never thought would do
someday. However, dared to make one and worked for more than 7-8 days
to finally make something that I could claim as a doll. I took a fine quality
wood large enough to give it a shape of a doll, used other tools, glue and
other ingredients to make this doll. I painted that doll and tried to mimic my
sister's facial features in this doll. When gave this doll to my sister, she was
so amazed that she kissed me and thanked me again and again. She even
recognised that tried to mimic her face in that doll. Then I told her that the
name of this doll is Emmy'. She laughed and told me that it was even more
beautiful than her
A few weeks later my father bought her a very expensive and beautiful
doll but my sister was somehow convinced that the one I made was prettier
Maybe that was because of her love and affection for me.
I basically wanted to make my sister happy and to give her something
before her 8th birthday. I did not have enough money to buy her a big doll
and I had some skills in making toys with woods and papers. Considering
all these facts was convinced that I should make a wooden doll by myself
for my sister.
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4. Describe how you behaved in a stressful

situation.
You should say-
 When it was?
 Why had you faced it?
 How did you feel?
Well, I have experience of a number of stressful situations in which I felt

sad. And here I would like to describe one stressful situation of my life.
About two months ago I had lost my passport in a taxi. I explain it briefly.
One day, I was going to my friend Saba’s house to meet him. I had kept my
passport in my skirt’s pocket. Actually, I was going there to fill the form for
the IELTS exam online. Saba has had internet access on his laptop and
she told me that she will fill my IELTS exam’s form. So, I took a taxi to
reach my destination.
I was in the cab, then suddenly my phone started ringing. Saba was calling
me to know my location because she was waiting for me. I received her call
and said to her that I am nearby her home. When she cut the phone call, I
reached her home. I gave traveling costs to a taxi driver and went to Saba’s
house.
When she asked me for my passport, I checked my pocket. Unfortunately, I

had lost it. I was worried so much. Quickly, I went back to my home and
started searching for my passport. I could not have found it.
Then, my phone had started ringing, It was an unknown number. I received

this phone call, this was the phone call of a taxi driver who was telling me
about my passport. Actually, I had kept a slip in the cover of my passport on
which I had written my mobile phone’s number.
He told that he checked this number and called me. I thanked him. I
requested him to keep my passport with himself. I said to him that I will take
it the next morning from the taxi stand. So, the next day, I went to the taxi
stand and took me a passport. I thanked him a lot.
Eventually, by the grace of God, I had found my passport. It was a very

stressful situation for me.
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5. Describe a natural calamity that you fear

You Should say :
 What it is?
 Why do you fear it?
 How it affects people’s lives?
 And explain how to think damage can be reduced.
Well, natural calamities or disasters occur due to an imbalance in the

earth’s environment. And here I would like to talk about a natural calamity
named earthquake from which I fear so much. The earthquake is also
known as a quake, tremor temblor.
It is a shaking of the surface of the earth, results from the sudden release of
heat or energy in the earth’s lithosphere that creates seismic waves. Some
Earthquakes are so weak but some are violent enough to toss people
around and destroy whole cities. I have experience with this calamity.
And here I like to tell you about a time when Earthquake occurred during
the night. About two years ago, I was sleeping in my bedroom at night.
Suddenly, the window of my room was opened and it made a loud sound. I
felt that my bed is shaking. I opened my eyes and then I went to nearby the
window.
I saw that there was a fast wind was blowing. All the plants nearby my
home were producing the horrible sounds. It was a nightmarishly terrible
scene.I thought that it is definitely occurring due to an earthquake. I tried to
close the window but I Could not have done it. I had afraid so much and
started screaming because all the objects in my bedroom were shaking.
I ran to my mom’s bedroom and she woke up with my loud voice. she gave
me water to drink and said to me to sleep with her.
Eventually, this natural calamity becomes the cause of death of many

people who live in the soil houses. because when an earthquake occurs,
houses have broken with the strong shaking. I fear it.
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6. Talk about an own thing which would like to

remove
You should say:
 What is that thing?
 Why do you want to change it?
 Talk about an own thing which would like to remove
Everyman has a plethora of things in his life which are may be very useful
or some things are not. Sometimes, people want to remove old things
because it might become unimportant for them. Here, I would like to talk
about a thing which I want to remove. It is an old bookcase. I bought it 7
years ago from ” Lara Furniture Shop”. It is made of wood. I really fond of
reading books and magazines, so I purchased it. I took a plethora of books
on it. It has four shelves to keep books or anything other. When I purchased
this bookcase, it really mesmerized me with a mirror on the front of it but,
now its condition is very bad. Except for the mirror, the whole bookcase has
spoiled because of fungus.
moreover, the three shelves have broken and now, I cannot keep my books
as well as, magazines in this bookcase. By the way, I have one another
bookcase which has made of iron. I can keep books in the new one. I like
and I will really do it. I have kept the old bookcase till now because I bought
it with my first job salary but, now I feel sad as well to remove it. But, I can
use its mirror and set it up on the front of the iron made bookcase. Further
more, I will feel quite good after removing the old bookcase.
7. Describe a situation you were not allowed to

use your cell phone.
You should say:
 Where was it?
 When was it?
 Why you were not allowed?
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 What did you want to do with your cell phone?
Well, in this contemporary era, mobile phones have become part and parcel
of our life. More than a luxury these days, it is a necessity to stay connected
with our near and dear ones(kith and kin). Moreover, we are so addicted
and dependent on this device that we can’t even imagine our life without it
for a single moment. However, uses of mobile phones are prohibited at a
myriad of places, like hospitals, temples, in flights, and while driving.
Besides, a similar thing happened to me a couple of months ago, when I
had to visit a bank and was not allowed to use my cellphone.
We are so habitual to check our mobiles every now and then for everything,
like WhatsApp messages or emails, that if we are asked o stay away from
it, then certainly we feel as if we are standing on a death’s door.
Actually, due to some financial transactions related to my education loan, I
had to visit one of the bank’s branches in my city. Just like any other day,
the bank was overcrowded. Since I was aware that mobile phones were
restricted inside the bank, I turned my phone into silent mode. And being a
responsible citizen, I lined up in the queue and waited for my turn patiently.
When my turn came, I presented all the documents to the bank cashier.
However, to my surprise, the check leaf was missing from the papers. That
time I realized that accidentally I would have left it at home. Therefore, I
took out my mobile and started to make a call to my father.
Nevertheless, I was stopped by a security guard, to not make any calls from
inside the building due to security reasons. At first, I was in a dilemma as I
couldn’t understand what to do, so I requested him to let me make a call so
that someone from my home can get the chequebook for me.
But he added an insult to injury by saying that if he would allow me, then
everyone could start demanding it. On the one hand, I began to have blues
if I moved from the line, then I must wait in the queue again for my turn to
come while on the other hand, he was also reasonable. Since I had no
option, with a heavy heart, I went outside the bank and called my dad to get
the chequebook.
Indeed, I was frustrated to the core by the strict rule, but I also do realize
how significant it is for the security system. Additionally, from that day
onwards, I am extremely cautious about my documents as I learned a good
lesson to be attentive and careful.
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8. Describe an outdoor sport that you haven’t

done yet and would like to do in the future.
You should say:
 what is it?
 when and where you would do it?
 what preparations and equipment you would need?
sports are an important part of human’s life.it has a great role to play in the
life of every human being. I like sports and played in my childhood and
school time. I belong to a village and there are ordinary sports to play in a
village. but today I would like to talk about an outdoor sport which I didn’t
play in my past life but I would like to play in my future life.it is the game of
hockey which is the national game of India.
in my school days, I have seen many boys playing this game but I didn’t get
a chance to play at that time. because in my school days I was
concentrating on my studies. I am much worried about my future at that
time. after completing secondary education I went to college for my further
studies. I got tough subjects in my graduation.but my inspiration toward
hockey was increasing day by day. now I am in the final year of my
graduation.i often met the hockey coach of my college hockey and he
always motivated me to play this game.i will play this game in my post-
graduation when I will go to the university.
I need a coach who has deep knowledge about this game. I already contact
some players who had played hockey at the school time. I would buy a
hockey, a ball, a hockey dress and sports shoes. I often watch hockey
matches telecasted on the tv which is a great source of knowledge for me.i
also watch the matches organized on the zone level in my city.i hope I
would definitely fulfill this wish in my future.
follow-ups
Q-1 Do you play any sports at night?

Ans: no, I don’t play sports at night because I am so busy during daytime at
my work.so I get tired due to work. so I prefer to play at daytime.
Q-2 What are the benefits of playing sports?

Ans: there are many benefits of playing sports.first of all one could pursue
his career in sports.because successful sportsmen choose for higher jobs.
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the other benefit is one could keep himself fit and healthy.
Q-3 What is the difference between playing sports on your own and
playing sports in the group?
Ans: playing sports on your own could give you chance to bright like a star
and pursue your career.but playing in a group or team could give the feeling
of team spirit and promote brotherhood.
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9. Describe a faraway place that you would like

to visit
You should say:
 Where is It?
 Why do you want to go?
 When do you want to go?
Well, I have visited several places in my whole life such as an Air castle in
Jaipur, Red Fort in Delhi, Zoo in Indore and so on. But here I would like to
talk about a place which is located at some distance from my hometown.
That place is a museum which has known as “Shaheed Bhagat Singh
Museum”.
This museum is located in a city named Lialpur which was the birthplace of
Great-martyr Bhagat Singh. I heard about it from one of my friends named
Saba. He told me everything about it that many things related to Punjab’s
traditions and culture are set up over there. Besides it, the whole biography
of Shaheed Bhagat Singh is presented there through his pictures. When
Saba was explaining everything to me, then I felt very excited to see it.
Shaheed Bhagat Singh was the freedom fighter of India who fought with the
British government before the freedom of India. he hung up on 23rd March
by the British Government for doing anti-British government activities. 23rd
March has announced as a national holiday by the Indian Government.
Shaheed Bhagat Singh was very brave and confident since his childhood.
He wanted to do something to get freedom from the British government. He
joined Freedom Association which did various activities to defeat British
officers. In this, he met with two other freedom fighters named Sukhdev and
Rajguru.
These three made a plan and threw the bomb in an assembly in Lahore.
This explosion was never for killing anyone because it was only thrown to
put lacs of screams of Indians in the ears of the British government. After
this explosion, they did not run from there and arrested by British officers.
Court Punished them and ordered them to hand them. After this, Indian
people got awareness and started a fight against the British government to
go back to their country, Britain. As a result of it, India got freedom in 1947.
On 23rd March, several functions organize in India, especially in Punjab.

Also In my school, a programme organizes every year to recall the
20
memories of martyr Bhagat Singh. I visit over there each year and gain
knowledge about Shaheed Bhagat Singh.
All in all, I would like to visit this museum because it is related to a great
martyr Shaheed Bhagat Singh who helped us to get freedom from cruel
British officers. I believe, everyone should be like that brave martyr. I shall
go there as soon as possible.
21
10. A visit you made using public transport

You should say:
 When and where you went?
 What kind of transport did you use?
 How was your trip?
Well, every day I go to college in public transport. According to me, public

transportation is safe for long journeys as well as for short visits. But here I
would like to talk about a visit which I made via a bus. I explain it briefly.
About two months ago, I had made a plan to go to the Golden Temple
Amritsar with my two friends. We decided to travel via bus.
According to our plan, we reached the bus station in my hometown Moga.

On the bus station, We bought eatable things and beverages to drink. We
took a
bus in which only a few people were traveling. During this journey, We sit
on the same seat on the bus. We shared many views with each other. My
one friend who was traveling with us is a very talkative person. He makes
each and every moment memorable with his funny and captivating talk. He
was doing funny activities on the bus. After some time, When the bus
conductor came near to seat, then we got a ticket from him.
When one hour passed during the journey, we ate the food which we
carried with us.
Then, we reached the city of Amritsar after one hour. We went out of the
bus and took a cab to reach GoldenTemple. We went in just ten minutes.
We did supplication over there for the goodness of our loving families.
Moreover, I prayed to God for the strong relationship between us three

friends. After prayer, we came back to the bus station and took the bus to
reach home.
Eventually, till the evening, we came back to my hometown. So, that was
the time when I went with my friend by bus.
22
11. Describe plant grown in your country you

think is important
You should say:
 What is it?
 Why do you think it is important?
 Where is it found?
Well, India is a diverse country. There are a variety of plans that are being
grown by Indian citizens such as Neem, Basil, Turmeric and so on. But here
I would like to talk about the most important plant named Aloe Vera plant.
This plant is small in size and very easy to grow. Because we can plant it in
any type of soil. This plant has multifarious benefits to a human being. I
explain it briefly.
Firstly, Aloe Vera is used in various medicines such as antibiotics, anti

fungus and so on. The doctor adviced to diabetic patients to apply Aloe
Vera gel on their feet to reduce the effect of diabetes. Secondly, many
people grow it in front of their home for the decoration purpose. I also have
grown it nearby the main entrance of my house. It needs less water to grow
but a large amount of sunlight to grow well.
Moreover, some persons grow it in the beautiful pots and keep it in their
bedroom just near to the window. Because it produces ten times extra
oxygen in the environment rather than other plants. It sucks harmful
bacterias from the air and refreshes the bedroom. Apart from it, Aloe Vera
has been using in the home remedies by Indian manpower. Its gel is very
beneficial in the skin as well as hair problems such as tanned skin, hair fall,
uric acid, and joint pain.
People cut this plant’s parts and cook it as a dish that purifies the blood of a
human body. Furthermore, I use its gel on my hair to make them healthy
and lengthy. I have been doing it for one year in order to reduce the hair fall
problem. In the past time, my hairs were short and I wanted to make them
longer.
Then, once a time I read about a home remedy to grow long hairs
on the internet. I watched that Aloe Vera gel is also a part of this remedy.
So, I grew it in my home and started using it. Now, my hairs are so long and
a plethora of humans ask about my long hairs. I say them that it is a miracle
of Aloe Vera gel.
All in all, it is a very beneficial plant for each and every person.
Everyone should grow it in the home.
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12. Describe idea of your dream vacation

You should say:
 Where you want to go?
 Why do you want to visit this place?
 What do you know about this place?
well, everyone love vacations and I am one of them. I love to travel to

different places to explore different culture and lifestyles. normally I don’t
get enough free time for a long vacation but yes if I get a chance then I
would like to go to Australia for at least 15 days.
To be honest, going to Australia just like a dream come true. I heard a lot
about this place and in fact, my cousin sister also lived there. she shared
pictures with me one of the beautiful city of Sydney in Australia. after
watching the beauty of this city I just love this and my curiosity to be going
there is on peak now.
I have planned so many things .when I go there first I want to see Sydney
opera house which looks incredible in pictures and I love to see it in reality.
Apart from it, some other places which I like to visit such as “the Sydney
harbour bridge “, “the rocks “, queen victoria building and so on. I hope I go
there very soon because of my cousin sister invite me to my nephew’s
birthday party .if I got the visa for traveling then definitely I explore the
beauty of Sydney. my mother also planned to go with me so it would make
my trip more memorable. we planned to stay with my sister house
throughout the vacation.
she also free on that time due to summer off so there is no worry for her to
take off from work especially for us. she promised me to help me to explore
each and everything. I also want to try some local food in their country.
when this dream come true I would capture it with my cam for saving this
loving memory. overall, I still waiting for this type of vacation hope it will
possible as soon as
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13. Describe a person who works on

protecting environment
You should say:
 Who is he?
 How do you know him?
 What efforts does he make for the environment?
It is quite evident that the Degradation of an environment is getting grimmer

day by day. And many persons have been putting the contribution to
protecting the environment. Although I belong to a small village, It is a
miniature developing village which includes modern facilities such as a
dispensary, school, bank and so on.
In my village, a human being named John Drill who has been working to
protect the environment. Mr. John has established a youth club that works
for my village such as cleaning all the allies, solve problems of villagers,
helping to poverty-stricken people with money and so on. Mr. John is a
leader of that youth club.
About three months ago, Mr. John had organized an awareness

programme for villagers in order to aware them about the deformation of an
environment and solution to defend it. I went over there with my mother.
He invited all the people to come over there in this programme. On that day,
the programme started with a lecture of Mr. John on Solutions to secure the
environment at 10:30 AM. Each and every villager was listening to him very
patiently and calmly.
Mr. John told that earth is our home and we are being unwise by
degenerating it. If the earth will vanish, then, all individuals will terminate.
He explains it very well to villagers. He leaves a profound impact on their
minds. He requested manpower to grow more and more plants because
trees are a cause of life on the earth and it is our duty to do it.
At the end of this awareness programme, Youth club distributed plants to

every person to grow in their homes. By seeing all these things, I was so
astounded by Mr.John’s work for the protection of the environment.
All in all, Mr.John is the person who works to defend the environment
known by me.
25
14. Describe an activity you enjoy doing when

you alone
You should say:
 What are you doing?
 Why do you like to do?
 How do you feel after doing them?
Well, there are a number of activities which I love to do when there is no

one at my home. For instance, working in the kitchen garden of my home,
reading a book, cleaning my bedroom, surfing the internet, watching a
movie on television and so on.
But here I would like to talk about an activity which I do commonly when I
alone at my house and that is cooking. I love to cook food for myself as well
as for my loving family. My mother has great culinary skills and I have
learned cooking from her. When I feel bored due to loneliness, then I go to
the kitchen trying to prepare new dishes.
To be honest, I do not like to have food from a food corner situated in any
market because I know very well that many times food has prepared in the
unhygienic conditions which harm to anyone. So, I make food in my home’s
kitchen. I like to try a variety of recipes. For instance, I can bake a cake of
any flavor, Chinese food, Italian food, Dhokla, Punjabi dishes like Daal
Makhani and so on.
Moreover, sometimes I cook special dishes for my family members as per

their choice and give a surprise to them. They feel immensely glad when
they see their favorite food items. I remember that about a couple of weeks
ago, I was alone at home and other family members went outside due to
work or study. I had a holiday on that day. I felt bored.
Then, I went into the kitchen and started preparations to cook a healthy
dish. I decided to make a special dish named “Gajar Ka Halwa” which is my
mom’s favorite dish. I cooked it with milk, sugar, butter, carrots, and dry
fruits. when I had cooked it, I tasted it. It was mouthwatering.
When my mother came back home, I showed it to her. She ate it and felt
highly elated. For this, she kissed me. I felt on the ninth cloud at that time
because a smile on her face made my day. So, I like to cook food when I
alone at my home.
26
15. Talk about your teenager friend

You should say:
 Who is he/she?
 Why do you like him/her?
 What do you experience from him/her?
Well, I have met with a plethora of teenager and beautiful girls. But I like
one teenager from them, I admire her beauty as well as her good
personality. I explain about her briefly.
Her name is Manpreet Kaur. She is my classmate. She is very attractive

because of her beauty. She is tall, fair complexion with black hair. She
maintains her beauty and looking stunning. Every type of dress suits her
because she is a slim lady.
Moreover, she is a well-educated human being. She is 17 years old. She is

studying with me in a well-reputed school in my home town. She is very
honest about her studies. She is very intelligent. From morning to night,
She does everything for the goodness of her family as well as for her
studies.
Apart from it, she teaches to poverty-stricken students in the evening every
day. She does if free for poor learners.
Furthermore, she donates money y in schools from her pocket money for
the help of intelligent and poor juveniles. Besides it, all her activities attract
others as well as myself so much such as her way of talking, sense of
humor, politeness, creativity and so on.
All in all, she is the backbone of her family who has attached to all family
members. I meet with her many times. Ii invited her once on the marriage of
my cousin. During a marriage function at my house. She came to my home
with his family to attend the wedding party of my cousin’s marriage.
She impresses me whenever I meet her. She also does chit-chat with me
on facebook. I like her very much and wish to be like her.
27
16. Talk about something you would like to get

replaced.
You should say:
 what is it?
 when you replace it?
 why you replace it?
Today is the world of technology.new inventions are coming day by day into
the market.new versions of available products with updated and new
functions are introducing in the world.people are crazy for buying new
versions with the latest technology.in earlier time simple TVs were
available.but with the advent of technology LCD, led, and now smart TVs
came into the market. smart TVs have come with HD picture quality and wifi
direct, youtube facility.so I would also like to replace my ordinary tv with
smart tv.
I would like to replace it in the coming weeks because I had started to save
the money for this one year ago. when I would have the desired amount I
will buy it. moreover, when I am free, I go to the market with my friend to
see the different kinds of models of different brands. because a large
number of brands are available in the market. I want to buy the best model
of best brand. my friend has already bought it a few months ago.so he
could guide me to buy it in a better way.
I want to replace it because it has a big screen with HD picture quality.so it

would be an experience like theatre at home. furthermore, it can be
connected to the internet through wifi and one can see anything on
youtube.one can also experience other social websites on it like facebook,
Instagram etc.it is slim in size and would be installed in a little space.it could
also be hanged on the wall of your room.so it has a large number of
facilities and I want to replace it.
28
17. Describe the time when someone took a

good photograph of you.
You should say:
 when and where the photo was taken?
 who took the photo?
 what does the photo depict?
In this modern era technology is developing day by day and new inventions
are coming onto the market.in the earlier time, a few people had cameras to
capture pictures and cameras were very heavy to carry by someone with
him or her. but nowadays with the advent of technology, mobiles phones of
different brands are available in the market which has a large number of
functions like one could capture pictures and makes videos at any time and
anywhere.these mobile is not only easy to carry but have high dimension
picture quality.i have a Samsung mobile and always capture pictures on
different occasions. but today I would like to talk about a picture which was
taken by my sister in law with my mobile when we had gone to wonderland
Jalandhar after my marriage.
I had gone to wonderland Jalandhar in the month of June just after my

marriage with my in-laws. my sister in law candy is fond of taking pictures
and she is very expert in it.we were wondering in the garden. then I saw an
artificial fountain where water was falling from an artificial hill made with
heavy rocks. It presented a beautiful view of nature. we decided to capture
pictures there because it was a beautiful location to take the
pictures.everyone was taking pictures one by one turns. then I asked my
sister in law candy to capture our picture. she took our picture in a beautiful
way.it is really awesome.
in the picture, my wife sits on the rock at the center of the fountain and I sit
beside her by holding her shoulder.water is falling from the hill behind us.it
is really a beautiful picture and it is one of the best pictures in my album.the
picture shows our love and our affection with nature.
follow-ups
Q-1 do you like to take photographs?
Ans: yes definitely I like to take photographs.it is a good source to capture
your memories and preserve them for a long time. I like to take photographs
since my childhood because my uncle gave me a camera as a gift on my
fifth birthday.
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Q-2 what are the new and easily available sources to capture
photographs?
Ans: in the past time there were only a few sources to capture
pictures.there were only ordinary cameras with a reel in it by through one
could have captured only 35 to 36 pictures.but in this modern era,there are
not only available higher internal memory cameras by which one could
capture a large number of pictures but mobile phones also with an internal
memory of 8GB, 16 GB, 32gb and 64 GB.
Q-3 what is the new style to take pictures with mobile cameras
prevailed in the society nowadays?
Ans: the new style to take pictures with mobile cameras is named selfie.
mostly youth of the nation is crazy about this new style. some young
persons became mad to take selfies that sometimes they have to lose their
lives. this style is not only prevailed in my country but all around the world
also.
30
18. Describe a time when you saw lots of

people smiling
You should say:
 what it was?
 when it was?
 why people were smiling?
 How you felt?
First of all thanks for giving such a nice topic. A smile can make anyone’s
day but in fast-growing life, we can forget the value of smiling. here I would
like to share with you a time when I laughed too much and that time was
remember me till now.
In last month I and my uncle attend a party which was held in “laughing
club” Chandigarh. My uncle has the membership of that club. In that party
maximum, 200 people have come. all Generations ( senior citizens,
youngsters or as well as children ) were there.
That was a theme party and theme was “How to live happily”. Children
performed some activities such as ( crapes jokes, funny dress competition,
memocarry of Bollywood stars). the main motive of that activities was given
a smile to everyone and it really worked.
When 2 children play a role in some famous personality and crape a joke
on each other. Everyone who suited in club laughed loudly. That time was
the best time when I saw the whole member of the club laughed and they
feel very relaxed and happy.
31
19. Talk about a wish that you could not

accomplish for a long time
You should say:
 what it is?
 how long you have it?
 what you have to do to achieve it?
Everyone has some wishes or dreams but all cannot be fulfilled at the same
time. Here I would like to talk about one of mine wish which is unfulfilled till
now. I have a dream to start cooking classes or cooking blog since10 year
ago but unfortunately, due to very busy schedule, I can not start work on it.
I love to do the cooking and I want to share my own recipes or technique of

cooking with others. now I decide to make a timetable I add my passion
work also. First of all, I create a blog online and start free classes for those
who love to do the cooking.
After that, I want to start offline classes also for the needy student who can
not afford internet fees. Its really help that student who moves outside due
to their job or studies. They learn cooking skills and able to cook them self. I
love to fulfill this wish as soon as possible.
32
20. Talk about an English lesson you enjoyed

or Describe an English class, seminar or
training session that you enjoyed.
You should say:
 Who gave the lecture?
 When did you attend?
 Where did you attend?
 What did teacher do?
 What do you think it was enjoyable?
During my school time, I was very weak in the English Language. Hence to
improve my English Language skills, I had to attend few English classes.
Among the classes I have attended, few were quite boring, except the one
class which was very interesting and I enjoyed attending that class a lot. So
here I would share my experience about attending that enjoyable class.
The lesson was basically related to English Grammar. But this class was
different, as in this class the more significance was given to advanced
grammar, and less on simple grammar. And only in this class, for the first
time, I learned about Advanced Grammar, before that I had no idea about
this form of grammar.
I attended this class at my school. At that time, I was in 12th class. And this
happened some 4 years ago. This class was presented by Mr. Baldev.
I learned a plethora of skills from this class. I was introduced to numerous

useful tips and tricks on how to improve grammar. Apart from this, he made
us aware of articles, linking verbs, determiners and many more topics
related to grammar.
Honestly saying, I enjoyed this class a lot. But there’s a reason behind my
interest in this class. Normally, students find grammar class uninteresting
and tiresome. Even a class of 10 minutes can make the student feel sleepy.
But in this class, everyone, including myself were excited and were paying
full attention towards the lesson.Mr.Baldev teaching style was very
interesting.
So this was all about an English lesson that I enjoyed.
33
21. Describe a shop that has opened in your

hometown
You should say:
 What shop it is
 What it sells (or, what you usually buy there)
 when you first started going to this shop (or, how you came to know
about this shop)
 and explain why you like (to go to) this shop
I live in a famous town of Punjab, Moga it is one of the districts of the state
it is known for its export of eatable products to different parts of the world
made by Nestle India limited it is a famous industry established by the
reunion of the Indian and Swiss governments both countries have equal
share in it, but today I would like to talk about shop which is recently
opened by this company in our hometown this shop is opened in the heart
of the city .
It is a big shop where all kind of products includes candies, chocolates,

coffee, milk powder Ghee, Tammaro sauce, etc. this shop sell these
products on a wholesale basis.I heard about this shop from my uncle who
works. In that company, he is a good friend of my father. He always visited
my home to meet my father.
One day when he came to my house, he told me about the shop and
suggested me to visit the shop. One day when I was free, I decided to go
there with one of my friends. When we reached there, we saw that there
was an excellent parking facility for the vehicles. The shop was huge, and
all the items were displayed on stands.
The place was elegant, and clean .baskets were available to carry different
products, and you could pay at different counters. The price of every
product displayed on it, and there was no need to ask for price .there were
concessions on some items. so I liked that shop very much and I often visit
there
34
22. A Radio or TV programme you like to talk

to others with
You should say:
 what kind of TV program it was?
 when you saw this TV program.?
 what the TV program was about.?
Nowadays there are a 500+ of Television channels and many programmes

are running on Television. The one programme I am going to talk about
here is FRIENDS. It is my all-time favorite tv series. In fact, all my family
members enjoy this serial together. Later on, I discuss this with my friends
too. We all have a good laugh at the serial the next day. Earlier it was on
Zee Cafe but now it is telecast on Colors Infinity Channel.
Its time is 10.30-11.30 pm. This show about Ross Geller, Rachel Green,
Monica Geller, Joey Tribbiani, Chandler Bing, and Phoebe Buffay are six 20
something-year-olds living in New York City. Over the course of 10 years,
these friends go through family, love, drama, friendship, and comedy.
Monica Gellar – A compulsive neat freak, who has trouble with her love life.
Monica was teased when she was in high school for being overweight.
However, now a head-chef at a top restaurant in Manhatten Rachel Green,

Ross Geller, Monica Geller, Joey Tribbiani, Chandler Bing and Phoebe
Buffay is six 20 something year-olds, living off of one another in the heart of
New York City. Over the course of ten years, this average group of buddies
goes through massive mayhem, family trouble, past and future romances,
fights, laughs, tears and surprises as they learn what it really means to be a
friend. Rachel Green – A popular schoolgirl of the past, is now a spoiled
brat living off her father’s finance. Ross now is devoted to finding a girl to
settle down with, without a divorce, and makes it his personal goal to share
happiness with Rachel.
Phoebe Buffay – Brought up as a fatherless child, Phoebe is a ditzy yet

loveable hippy, who has become a personal masseuse Phoebe often
performs at the ‘Central Perk’ coffee house, and strongly believes in herself.
Chandler Bing – A financially secure data processor, who relies on humor
as a defense mechanism. Joey Tribiani – Despite being close to all the
friends, he is especially open with Chandler, who his also his roommate.
Joey is a small time actor, he always saying ” how you Doing” to every girl.
At the end of the serial, there is a lesson as to what should have been
done. Every show taught a lesson to us
35
23. Describe a couple who you think have a

happy marriage
You should say:
 Who the couple is?
 How they look like?
 Why you consider they happy marriage?
Well, I know several happy couples out there including my parents who
have a great relationship, however, today I want to talk about my cousin
and his wife. You know, they have been married for almost twenty years
now and whenever I see them they always seem to be cheerful and still-in-
love.
I must say that there are the bunch of reasons for their healthy relationship.
First thing I want to mention is that they have a lot of common interest such
as their passion for music. Whenever I go to their home, I frequently watch
them play music together, in fact, they are a perfect combination when it
comes to this matter because my cousin plays the piano while my sister-in-
law plays guitar and both can sing very well.
The most interesting thing is that they both work in the same hospital
because they are both professional doctors. However, the most important
thing is that they share the household chores together, they work as a team
as they help each other at home on a quite regular basis.
My cousin cooks delicious food while my sister-in-law washes the dishes.

So I get the impression that they treat each other very well. In addition to
that, I’ve noticed that my cousin always drives his wife to and from work
every single day.
All in all, there’s no doubt that they’re really happy together, and I think
they’re actually great role models on keeping a marriage strong and
healthy.
36
24. Talk about a day off that you took to relax

from work
You should say:
 what you did,
 where you went,
 who was there with you, and
 what you did to relax.
I’ve had many relaxing days in my life, but the day I’m going to talk about
here is last Sunday.
The whole month before that I was very busy.
We were getting our house re-painted and I was busy helping my parents in
setting and re-setting the furniture and almirahs.
So, last Saturday the whole work was over and we all family members
heaved a sigh of relief.
On Sunday, we went to see a movie.
We saw Dabang in Sarb Multiplex.
We really enjoyed a lot.
We had popcorns and pepsi in the interval.
After the movie we went for shopping
We didn’t buy much but we enjoyed the window shopping
Then we went to Haveli and enjoyed the traditional Punjabi food at Rangla
Punjab
We also saw a cultural programme that was going on over there
You know ma’am, on that day Gurdas Mann had come there with his
troupe.
There was a lot of rush there.
People were queuing up to take his autograph.
He is a very popular Punjabi singer, lyricist, actor and director.
We returned home very late in the night.
It was a day full of fun and frolic.
It was a very relaxing day for me.
37
25.TALK ABOUT A DEBATABLE ISSUE

You should say:
 What the issue is?
 Why it is debatable?
 Which side did you support?
 And How do you think it can be resolved?
Well, it is not uncommon to see debates getting sparked on minor as well

as major issues and the topic which is very much in controversies these
days in society and the one I am going to talk about is whether the
employees should be allowed to continue to work from home or not.
Actually, the thing is that during the Corona pandemic, the employees were
supposed to work from home.
The fact is that there was a complete lockdown and it was not feasible for
companies to allow their employees to visit the office on regular basis. This
is the reason, employees started working from home. Now, the debate is
that the employees want to continue to work from home. The fact is that
earlier, they were unable to maintain or strike a balance between their
professional and personal lives. Now, they can do it better because they are
not wasting the time that they were wasting earlier traveling to and from
work.
But, there is another segment or a group which believes that working from
home is having a detrimental impact, especially on the work efficiency of
the employees. They are not giving their 100 percent to work. At the same
time, their professionalism and commitment to work are also affected. Since
there is no interaction with their colleagues or there is no supervision of
their employers.
For that reason, they are not working as they should be and if I talk about
myself, I too believe that there is certainly a drastic fall in the
professionalism of workers. They are becoming lethargic and that's the
reason why I think the best idea to resolve this debate or to come up with
the best solution to resolve this problem is that the workers and the
employers should come up with some kind of agreement. There has to be
an arrangement under which employees are expected to visit their
workplace for a few days a week while for the rest they may continue to
work from home. This way, both parties would be satisfied and the problem
would be resolved.
38
26. Describe a Fountain you really liked

You should say
 Where it is?
 How did you learn about it?
 Describe the fountain.?
 Why did you like it so much?
Well, falling water is something that mesmerizes everyone and it is not

uncommon to see fountains erected in most public places especially
gardens and squares to simulate natural waterfalls. Here, I am going to talk
about a newly constructed fountain in my city's biggest park "The Nature
Park". Well, the council erected this fountain just a couple of months ago
and I got to know about it from one of my friends who regularly visit this
park.
On his recommendation, I visited this park and I was completely astonished

to see how beautiful and massive this fountain is. It is actually in the shape
of a mermaid almost 15ft tall a burst of water goes high up in the air and
when it falls, it creates a lovely and breath-taking view. In fact, the sound of
the falling water is just so pleasing that when you close your eyes and listen
to it, you feel a connection with nature.
What's more, The main fountain is surrounded by a cluster of small

fountains and the water gets collected in a pond where there are a few
ducks as well. In fact, this fountain has enhanced the beauty of this park
and just because of this fountain, the footfall has increased greatly.
The best part of this fountain is that it is equipped with thousands of LEDs
and at night time you get amazed to see the color of the water changing
from red to blue and green to yellow. In no time, this fountain has become
extremely popular in the area and youngsters especially visit this park to
take photographs or selfies in front of this fountain.
I am grateful to the council who consider erecting this fountain and I hope it
would be maintained and would be taken care of properly so that in times to
come, it keeps on attracting the visitors and giving them a good time to
relish and relax their stressed minds.
39
27. Talk about a time when you were asked

opinion in a survey
You should say:
 When it was
 Where it was
 What it was about
 Explain about the survey experience
Well, I have participated in quite a few surveys conducted by different

organization But, here I would definitely like to share the experience of
participating in survey that I had just last month fact is that, I was at a bus
stand waiting for my bus that was suppose to leave in another twenty
minutes During this time I saw a canopy of Samsung mobile phones with
some people around.
I too approached to see with excitement what is going on and I got to know
that Samsung Company is conducting a survey of its latest release Note
Ten Plus mobile
Since, I am user of this mobile phone so, I too decided to take part in it. Mr.
Singh who was one of the representatives at this canopy he handed me
over a questionna There were about ten close ended questions that were
regarding different features of this mobile and at the bot there was also a
suggestion box I answered all the questions as per my experience with this
mobile and in the suggestion box,
I left my comments that this mobile is little too pricey and should be more
affordable. During this time also served me a cup of coffee. I must taking
part in this survey was quite a satisfactory experience I felt I am directly
communicating with company and sharing my feedback that would be quite
beneficial for the company Overall, it was the wonderful experience now I
never miss a chance to part in a survey.
40
28. Talk about A Joke That Made You Laugh

You should say:
 Who told you joke?
 When and where?
 What the joke was?
 Why did you find it interesting?
Well,laughter is the best medicine and people often love listening to jokes to
have some good fun and here I am going to share a funny incident narrated
by my cousin which is as good as any funny joke. I vividly remember that
my cousin simran was visiting us during summer holidays and one day we
were sitting in a restaurant to enjoy some snacks while having food, he
shared this funny incident with me.
He said that he was having big trouble with his friends who are really very
stingy by nature. They are never willing to spend a penny and always make
him to spend money on their behalf and never pay him back in any
circumstance. So, Simran decided to teach his friends a lesson and for that
one day, he called and invited all his friends to reach a restaurant by 6 pm
where he is going to throw a party.
Actually, he pretended to throw a party, but his intention was something

else. Now, sharp at 6 pm, all the friend's arrived and this was the time when
Simran said to all that you can order anything you want from the menu and
In greed, they ordered the most expensive food items in the menu and In
fact ordered more than what they could eat. My cousin was observing all
this and when the food was served, he made an excuse to use the
washroom and from there, he eloped and switched off his phone.
Now, his friends were trapped at this restaurant because they had no
money to pay. The restaurant owner detained them and made them clean
the restaurant and dishes till midnight. They had terrible experience at the
restaurant but they were truly sorry for their behaviour to Simran as well.
Listening to this incident, I started laughing hysterically and everyone was
staring at me in restaurant. Somehow I controlled my laughter that day but
now everytime I recall that incident, I start laughing again. Overall, it was
one funny incident or a joke that I heard that made me laugh a lot.
41
9 Band Sample Answer

Those are listed below
1. A time you were stuck in a traffic jam

Say when and where it happened
How long you were in the traffic jam
What you did while waiting
And explain what you felt when you were in the traffic jam
Sample Answer traffic we began to

plod ahead , but still
Bangalore is known for its perennial traffic blocks and I had at snail’s pace. I
a taste of it recently and I can say it was a nightmarish ex- couldn’t go beyond
perience. 6-7 km and every
traffic light meant a
I happened to visit Bangalore last October as I had to get five minute wait.
my laptop from the TCS Bangalore office.
The experience was
My cousin who stays in Bangalore had warned me to start an exasperating and
from my hotel early to factor in the traffic delays. So I started nerve racking one and
off one hour in advance , but still I was two hours late. I still shudder when I
think of it. For me,
The usual traffic congestion had been worsened by a pro- India’s Sili-
test march by Congress workers. Some of the arterial roads
were completely choked due to the march and there was a Perennial - lasting for a
massive gridlock. long time
Factor in - include some-

The police had set up diversions and alternative roads, but thing when you are doing
these too were jam packed. a calculation
My feelings went from frustration to boredom and finally I Arterial roads - a major
road carrying high vol-
just began observing people around me and how they were umes of traffic
responding to the chaos. Some were nervous, stressed and
anxious about reaching work late probably. Choked - blocked
Gridlock - traffic block

Some hot headed drivers repeatedly kept trying to switch
lanes and honk continuously.Some were just bored and Hot headed - getting
were killing time by chatting on their mobile. angry soon
After about an hour and a half of being stuck in this sea of At snail’s pace - at a very
slow pace
42
Exasperating - frustrat-ing
Nerve racking - stressful
43
con Valley lost much of its sheen due to the state of its road
infrastructure and its traffic snarls after that visit.
Part 3
1 Are traffic jams common in Indian cities?
Yes they are. Most metropolitan cities in India such as

Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore are some of the most choked
cities in the world, ranking high in congestion level parame-
ters. Traffic snarls are perennial in these cities, with average
residents spending hours caught in these jams.
2 Why are cities facing serious traffic issues?

One major cause is the rapid unplanned growth of the city.
With the huge influx of people, the population in most cit-
ies has expanded manifold, whereas the infrastructure has
failed to keep pace with it. Rise in use of private vehicles,
due to inefficient and inadequate public transit systems is
yet another cause for the clogging of streets.
3 What can be done to improve traffic conditions in cities?
The most effective solutions for traffic congestion are invest-

ing in high quality public transport and walking and cycling
infrastructure. Along with this people must be incentivised
to shift to these modes. A highly efficient public transport
network along with encouraging non motorised transport
for short trips by providing comfortable footpaths, protected
bicycle lanes would go a long way in addressing this issue.
4 Can developing public transport help resolve traffic issues

in cities?
Yes definitely. A car centered urban culture is the major

cause of congestion and so curbing the car culture and
making sustainable public transport a reality, would be the
best solutions.
44
2 Describe an invention that has changed

how people live
Say what it is
How it has changed people’s lives
What benefits it has brought
And explain how you feel about it
Sample Answer Massive - huge
Umpteen - a number of
Evolving technologies have undoubtedly transformed our
lives. One among these inventions is the Internet. Navigating - finding the
direction
One of the most dramatic changes the Internet has brought
about is the way we connect with each other. We can stay Leveller - something that
affects all classes of peo-
in touch with friends and family across the globe through ple in the same way
chat applications or video calls.
Hub - centre
Never before have people been so connected. Connectivity
also has made remote work possible. Overstate - exaggerate
Another massive change is the convenience it brings to our

lives. There are umpteen things we can use the internet for,
such as shopping, checking the news, navigating, booking
transport, carrying out bank transactions and so on.
This is particularly useful for elderly people, who can carry

out many of their day to day affairs from the comfort of their
homes.
Also access to information is perhaps the most significant

benefit. Long before the internet or search engines existed,
we would have to go to a library, search and read through
books for information. Now we can just ask Google and get
our answers.
This also means that the internet helps in education. We

can do courses online, upskill ourself, acquire a host of
skills and become proficient in any task imaginable.
The Internet can be called a great leveller.It offers equal

opportunities to everyone, to grow, advance and acquire
knowledge.
45
The internet is also of course, the hub of entertainment with

the latest films, series, online gaming and so on.
Overall, it’s hard to overstate the impact the Internet has

had.
Part 3
1 How has technology made our life easier?
Technology has come a long way over the past years and
has brought a lot of ease and convenience into our lives. It
is so much easier for people to communicate, shop, work
or study. We also have access to volumes of information on
our fingertips.
2 Which invention do you think is the most useful at home?
Well I think almost all household appliances and gadgets

are indispensable. However if I have to pick one, I would
choose the water filter. The quality of tap water in many
places, especially urban areas is suspect , But thanks to
technology, today we have a solution for accessing pure
and healthy drinking water. Water purifiers not just remove
microbes, but also chemicals and other contaminants and
keep waterborne diseases at bay.
3 Is it more difficult for old people to accept new technolo-

gies?
Yes, most elderly people struggle with new technologies

and are less inclined to use them. There are many barriers
to accepting modern innovations, the most significant one
being that they generally find them very complicated and
feel intimidated.
4 What can be done to make old people use technologies?
I think plenty of things can be done to encourage the aged

to embrace technologies. Technology classes specially
designed for older people would be a great start. Manufac-
46
turing elderly friendly devices would also go a long way in

achieving this goal. For example phones with big buttons,
bright screens and big font sizes would make them easier
to use for people with arthritis and sight issues.
5 Will our life be better if we live without technology?
Technology has pervaded almost every area of life today

and considering the conveniences it has ushered in, it
is almost unimaginable to think of life without technology.
It would not only be laborious and burdensome but also
would lack colour and vibrance.
47
3 Describe a family member you would like to

work with in the future
Say who he is
How you know him
What he does
And explain why you would like to work with him.
Sample Answer Proven his mettle -

showed his worth
A person I would like to work with is my nephew Davis.
Phenomenal- unusually
Davis is a digital media marketing manager with a company great
in Bangalore.
Out of the box thinking -
In the four years that he has been working there he has imaginative thinking
proven his mettle in marketing and managed to phenome- Catchy - memorable,
nally expand their customer base and sales revenue. appealing
Today digital marketing is vital to expand a business and Steep learning curve -
create brand awareness. learning quickly
Companies need to have a solid digital media presence

and digital advertising strategies to stay ahead in the com-
petition.
This needs innovative and creative thinking skills.I have

seen some of the marketing campaigns Davis had run for
his company . He uses multiple platforms for advertising
such as Facebook, Twitter and Youtube.
His out of the box thinking and excellent use of design and
visuals to get the message across, is really impressive. He
finds ways to attract,engage and delight customers online.
Recently he devised a catchy phrase about his business

and used it as a hashtag inorder to trend on Twitter.
I would like to work with him to get some smart insights to

succeed in online marketing. I would also be able to get a
better understanding about the algorithms used by different
social media platforms as well as digital marketing strate-
gies.
48
I am sure working with him would put me on a steep learn-

ing curve.
Part 3
1 What kind of family businesses are there in India?
I think there are several types of family run ventures.

Restaurants, retail outlets,event management companies
and pickle businesses are some of them.
2 Are there any positive effects of working with family mem-

bers?
Working with members of the family would mean a more

supportive and pleasant work environment. The trust and
closeness between family members would help them give
emotional support and advice in times of need. The atmo-
sphere would be friendly, relaxed and stress free, which
would make collaborative work much easier.
3 What makes family businesses successful?
Family members would definitely be more committed and

willing to sacrifice more time and effort to make the busi-
ness successful than hired staff from outside. Task delega-
tion, planning and strategizing would be easier and more
effectively managed.
4 What are the differences between big companies and

small companies?
Large companies are huge in terms of investments, re-
sources, turnover, infrastructure and employee strength.
They usually have a large customer base probably world
wide and usually diversify into various areas. They invest
heavily in advertisements and brand building to get an edge
in the market. Small businesses run on much smaller capi-
49
tal and usually are limited in terms of number of employees

and reach.
5 What are the benefits of working in big companies
Big companies offer better exposure and it is easy to ad-

vance in one’s career through the number of opportunities
to network with professionals with high expertise and talent
as well as inhouse training programmes. They also offer
perks such as insurance coverage, family tours, member-
ship of different clubs etc.
6 Are there many big companies in your country?
Yes, India is all set to be an economic powerhouse and it

has numerous large companies such as Tata Steel, Reli-
ance Industries, Bharat Petroleum,, Hindustan Petroleum,
Coal India Limited etc.
7 How can a small company grow big?
There are many big companies that began as small enter-

prises. For growing big, companies need to have uncom-
promising quality, smart advertising and marketing strate-
gies and also huge financial backing.
8 Should big companies donate more to charities?
Large companies have huge resources and hence should

have greater responsibility to the community. Donating to
charities also builds greater respect and good will among
customers and thus would indirectly benefit them.
9 Should big companies be punished more seriously if

they break the law?
Yes, definitely. Corporate houses that violate laws should

be penalized. No one is above the law and businesses
should be subject to existing regulations and should adhere
to sustainable business practices.
50
4 Talk about an important river or lake in your

country or hometown
Say which it is
How you know about it
And explain why it impresses you
Lifeline - something you

Sample Answer
depend on to lead your
life
India has hundreds of rivers and lakes crisscrossing the
length and breadth of each state. All of them are significant Mesmerizing - fascinat-
in one way or the other. ing
Picturesque - stunning
While some serve as a lifeline for the country, others may
hold value due to their sheer charm and mesmerizing Triggered - started
beauty.
Hordes - large number of
One such lake is the picturesque Pangong Lake in Ladakh Alluring - magical
in Jammu and Kashmir. Actually the lake lies partly in Lada-
kh and partly in Tibet. Bucket list - list of things
to do in their lifetime
It’s a major tourist destination for people, especially young- Iconic - famous
sters in search of adventure. I came to know about this
enchanting place from my cousin who had gone on a bike
trip to Ladakh some years back.
I was completely amazed by the pictures of this shimmering

turquoise lake that he showed me.
The tourist boom to this place was triggered by the HIndi

blockbuster 3 Idiots. The climax was shot in the backdrop
of this lake and after the release of the movie, it has been
attracting hordes of tourists.
This lake has captured the imagination of many more film

makers and so has featured in many Indian movies.
One curious thing about the lake is that it is situated at a

height of 4350 kms and is the world’s highest salt water
lake. Its blue waters stand in stark contrast to the arid rocky
mountains surrounding the lake.
51
Another thing that makes this lake alluring is that it chang-

es colours through the day - changing from a light sky blue
to a turquoise and then a deep royal blue,
There are a variety of camps on the banks of the lake of-

fering budget to luxurious accommodation. Visiting this lake
is on my bucket list. I have already done a considerable
amount of research about the tour operators, the route, the
accommodation facilities and so on. I cannot wait for the
day when I’ll finally land on this iconic location.
Part 3
1 What kinds of activities do people like to do in places near

water bodies?
Areas near water bodies like rivers and oceans are enjoy-
able getaways. People like to swim in rivers or just take a
dip.Sometimes just sitting by the riverside and watching the
river flow is a pleasant experience.Cruising on the rivers
on country boats or houseboats is also an amazing option.
People also engage in various water sports like rafting and
kayaking in rivers.
2 What do people like to do on the beach?
Beaches are fun places for enjoying with friends and family.
Just walking on the soft sand barefoot is a thrilling experi-
ence. Children and adults both like to play with the waves,
make sand castles and draw with sticks on the sand.Some
water sports include water surfing, parasailing and water
skiing.
3 Why are people fascinated by the sea?
People have always had a great fascination for the sea. The
endless stretch of water and the continuous motion of the
waves are a mind blowing sight. The sound of the waves is
also a fascinating experience. Watching the sunrise and the
sunset at the beach is also quite memorable.
52
4 What are the advantages and disadvantages of travelling

on the ocean?
Travelling on the ocean in a ship is a relaxing and enjoy-

able mode of travel. We can enjoy the fresh, pollution free
air and the cool sea breeze. It is a real vacation from the
outside world as there are no noises or hustle and bustle of
cities and vehicles.
But cruising on a ship can have a downside.Some people

are sea sick and so it may not be possible for them to enjoy.
Also when the weather is bad, the sea can be rough and
bumpy.
5 How important is water in daily life?

Water can be called the elixir of life. It is impossible for peo-
ple to survive without water. About 60 % of the human body
comprises water and hence it is said that we need at least
2 litres of water a day. Not getting enough fluids can result
in dehydration which can be life threatening especially for
the elderly.
6 Do you think human activities are posing a threat to

oceans globally?
Yes, definitely. One danger is over fishing. Unsustainable

fishing is a threat to marine life. Pollutants on land such as
untreated sewage, garbage, fertilizers, pesticides and plas-
tics eventually reach the ocean and pollute it. Also oil spills
and dumping of rubbish from ships endanger marine habi-
tats around the world.
53
5 Talk about a traditional object of your

country
Say what it is
How it looks
What it is used for
And why it is important
Sample Answer Treasure chest - box of

treasures
India is a treasure chest of a vast number of indigenous ob-
Indigenous - occurring
jects which are part of our cultural heritage. One such ob- in a particular place
ject which has been around for centuries is the harmonium.
It’s a musical instrument which is an integral part of Indian Synonymous - having the
music. same meaning
Spectrum - range
It would not be an exaggeration to say that it is almost syn-
onymous with Indian music. Waned - decreased
The harmonium is a kind of portable wooden box.The keys

are played and the bellows are compressed simultaneously.
It is extensively used to accompany folk songs and classical

music. Indian musicians traditionally sat on the floor when
they gave concerts and the harmonium could be played
while placed on the ground.
Many famous musicians like Bhimsen Joshi and Rabin-

dranath Tagore used this instrument while they sang. Al-
most all religious groups such as HIndus, Sikhs and Chris-
tians adopted it for their devotional music.
Harmoniums can be found in most temples and gurudwara.

It is also often used for social and religious gatherings and
stage performances.
It’s also used across a wide spectrum of music such as folk

music, classical music and even film music.
I have seen this instrument since I was a child. In fact in the

music classes in school our teacher used to play this instru-
ment and even taught us how to play the basics.
54
I would say it’s one of the easiest musical instruments.
Today many modern musical instruments have emerged on

the scene such as the electronic keyboard and the electric
guitar, but the popularity of this humble instrument has not
waned and still continues to remain intact.
Part 3
1 Name some traditional objects of your country.
India is rich in innumerable traditional arts and crafts. Every

region, city and village boasts of its own handmade tradi-
tions and skills—the centuries-old knowledge embedded
deeply in our culture. These handicraft works include in-
clude items such as terracotta Pottery, Zardozi Embroidery,
and Wood Carving of Uttar Pradesh, Pashmina shawls of
Jammu and Kashmir and the Madhubani paintings of Bihar.
2 What are the benefits of traditional objects to locals?
Handicrafts and traditional items keep culture and heritage
alive. They help local people get an awareness of their rich
and priceless heritage and also preserve these skills from
dying.
3 Do you think the government should help in the promo-
tion of traditional items?
Yes definitely. With industrialization and new age technolo-
gy, handmade products have taken a back seat. As a result
many artisans have moved to urban centres, seeking low
paid unskilled jobs. This has caused many traditional skills
and crafts to disappear. So it is vital to launch initiatives to
protect and preserve these skills.Workshops must be held
to train craftsmen in marketing, micr-finance and branding.
The government must also empower these artisans and
craftsmen to also effectively use technology to market their
products worldwide.
4 What is the difference between traditional items and

modern items?
Traditional items are painstakingly crafted by artisans who
have been doing this trade for generations and have honed
their skills. Each piece is created uniquely and takes a lot
of time. On the other hand machine made items are mass
55
produced and identical. Large scale production means low-

er costs and hence machine made items would be cheaper
than handmade ones.
5 Should young people learn about traditional objects of

their country?
Handicrafts are a vital part of our rich cultural heritage.

So it is important for young people to be given awareness
about them to revive and preserve them. Craft workshops
in schools and colleges by artisans would generate greater
respect and understanding about these crafts.
6 How can we make young people more interested in tradi-

tional art?
I think introducing traditional art in the school curriculum
would be an effective way to ignite their interest. Taking
students on trips to villages to observe artisans and crafts-
men engaged in this art could also fuel an interest in it.
Arranging exhibitions and shows depicting traditional art
can be yet another way to expose them to the beauty and
timelessness of such art.
7 What do young people think about traditional handi-

crafts?
I think young people are quite appreciative of traditional
handicrafts and believe they should be preserved. Many
choose to buy handicraft products to support the economy.
There are many NGOs started by young people to preserve
several traditional handicraft skills.
56
6 Describe a positive change in your life

Say what it is
Why you made this change
When you made it
Sample Answer Incorporated - included
Cinch - easy
A positive change that I have incorporated in my life is the
habit of going for a morning walk.I started doing this about Sluggish - slow
six months back.My main motivation was to lose weight.
I had gained weight and I knew I needed some kind of

‘exercise. I considered several options and I figured out that
a morning walk would be the ideal one.
So I set the alarm to wake up earlier than usual and go

for a 30 minute walk. Well I must say it wasn’t as easy as I
thought it would be.
I’m not an early riser and waking up early was the first bat-
tle. When the alarm went off at 5 my first impulse was just
to switch it off and go back to sleep, but in a week or two I
managed to wake up early and now it’s a cinch.
I can sense that the morning walk has benefited me in

many ways.I can feel the difference. The most noticeable
change is in my energy levels.I feel so much more energet-
ic. Earlier I used to be sluggish, slow and tired throughout
the day but now I’m full of energy.
These walks give me an energy boost and I’m much more

productive than I typically used to be.
Another wonderful aspect is the cool morning air. It’s so

refreshing and peaceful. The only sound you hear is the
chirping of birds.
I have also made some friends in the park where I walk and
my morning walk buddies keep me motivated and account-
able. So definitely this change that I initiated in my life by
57
making these adjustments to my lifestyle and habits has

greatly enriched my life and I hope to sustain this change.
I can say that this is a small change but it has made a big
difference.
Part 3
1 Is your country changing rapidly? In what ways?
There have been phenomenal changes in my country over

the years and they are continuing at a relentless pace.
Improved infrastructure such as roads, railways, airports,
highways, electricity,wired internet connectivity are among
the major ones, both in villages and cities. High band inter-
net connectivity has enabled online shopping, studies, bank
transactions and so on. There has also been an increase
in the development index which considers factors such as
health,education and income. India is also one of the fast-
est growing economies in the world.
2 Are all these changes positive?
Yes definitely. People are enjoying the benefits of these

advances. Living standards have improved and opportuni-
ties for personal and professional growth have advanced
exponentially. The divide between rural and urban areas
has also narrowed and there is a greater degree of social
equality and justice.
3 Do you think change is good?

Changes are unavoidable. However some may be good,
while others may produce a negative outcome. I think the
important thing is to have the right perspective and see the
positives in every change.For instance if a person lost a job,
it would seem like a negative change, but it can be used
as an opportunity to upskill themselves or launch their own
business. So I feel perception and attitude matters.
4 What are some of the major changes that usually occur in

people in their lives?
58
People experience many changes in their lives. Changes

may come by choice, as a result of a crisis or just by chance.
Some of these may be a change of residence, loss of loved
ones, marriages, birth of children and so on. While some of
these make us happy, others may be stressful, challenging
and may force us to step out of our comfort zone.
5 Should people change according to their surroundings?
Yes definitely. Change is the law of life. It is important to

adapt to them instead of trying to resist them.We need to
develop an open attitude and resilience so that we can use
changes as opportunities to learn and grow.
59
7 Describe an interesting neighbour

Say what it is
Why you made this change
When you made it
Sample Answer Wonderstruck - a feeling

of delight or admiration
My neighbourhood is a large close knit community. Among
Spectacular -impressive
my neighbours, one person whom I find very interesting
and unique is Shiela. Sheila and her family had just moved Awestruck - filled with
into our neighbourhood a few years back and so one day I admiration or respect
decided to pay my new neighbours a visit.
Meticulous - extremely
careful
The moment I stepped into their house I was wonderstruck
by the charming interior decor. The living room was tasteful- Intrigued - interested
ly decorated with paintings, indoor plants and small handi-
craft items. Downtime - free time
Metamorphose - to
I came to know that Sheela is an art teacher in a nearby change into a completely
school and she herself had created all the beautiful art different form
works showcased in that room.
She had transformed her home into a mini gallery, where

she displayed a wide variety of her spectacular handwork.
There were beautiful wind chimes, dream catchers, hand
painted bottles and home made planters.
I was awestruck by the stunning creativity, the meticulous

work and intricate designs. Since I also have an eye for
creativity, I am always intrigued by her creations.I find them
truly mesmerising.
I was so fascinated by her creative ideas and aesthetic

sense that I am now a regular visitor at their house.
Whenever she gets some downtime, she takes out her craft
supplies and gets working. With her creative juices flowing,
she gives a unique spin to mundane materials or waste
items like beer cans, cardboard or plastic bottles .
60
Her creativity never fails to surprise me.Recently I saw

beautiful earrings and bracelets she had made for her
daughter using buttons.
Coconut shells invariably find their way to the trash bins in

every household. But for Sheila they are raw materials with
huge possibilities and in her hands they metamorphose into
beautiful craft products. I can say I am a huge fan of Sheila
and her creativity fascinates me no end.
Part 3
1 Why are good neighbours important?
Neighbours are the people closest to us in times of emer-

gencies. If we run out of groceries we can always go over
to our neighbour’s place and borrow. Neighbours can also
protect our homes because they would be aware if they
see something suspicious. In addition, having a good rela-
tionship with neighbours enriches our social life as we can
have fun sharing meals, going for outings or doing work
together.
2 What are the qualities of a good neighbour?
Decent and helpful neighbours make a community warm

and inviting, whereas if they are obnoxious and disrespect-
ful, it would be very unpleasant living in that area. Good
neighbors are always willing to help and careful to respect
our boundaries. In case differences arise, such as a dispute
over borders or a problem with a pet, they would handle it
in a mature way.
3 Do most people in your country know their neighbours?

Yes people generally try to have good neighbourly relations
in my country. Many neighbourhoods form friendly commu-
nities, where there is plenty of cooperation and give and
take. However, there are instances when relationships be-
come strained due to misunderstandings, property disputes
and so on.
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4 How can we improve relationships with neighbours?
Like every relationship, this too needs time and concert-

ed effort. Smiling and saying hello can be a simple way of
making contact with our neighbours. Organising parties and
get togethers or inviting them over for dinner can cement
relations.
Also offering help in times of need, such as watching over

their pets and keeping a close eye on their property when
they are away would also go a long way in building a closer
community.
62
8 Describe a chocolate you didn’t like

Which it was
When you tasted it
How it tasted
And explain why you didn’t like it
Sample Answer Luscious - having a sweet

taste
I think no one can resist the charm of a luscious and
Unpalatable - not pleas-
creamy chocolate bar. These smooth, melt in your mouth ant to taste
delicious treats are universally loved.
Grimace - an ugly
However, a chocolate I found absolutely unpalatable was expression on the face
dark chocolate. When my friend Smriti handed me a bar of Diehard - strong
dark chocolate some time back, I was not at all prepared for
the strong bitter taste that hit me. Let me off the hook - to
allow one to escape
It was my first experience of dark chocolate. It had a chalky
texture and was hard as a rock. As my face turned into a
grimace, my friend burst into a fit of laughter and went on to
enlighten me about dark chocolate.
She told me that it has a bitter flavour due to the high con-
tent of cocoa which has huge health benefits. It’s rich in
minerals and antioxidants and therefore good for the heart
and also lowers the risk of diabetes.
On the other hand, the commercial milk chocolate that we

all love to eat,has mainly milk and sugar and very small
quantities of cocoa. This information was an eye opener but
the chocolate still didn’t hold any appeal for me.
Smriti turned out to be a diehard fan of dark chocolate. She

was not ready to let me off the hook. She was determined
to change my mind about this chocolate.
She suggested pairing it with fruits such as bananas or

dates or having it with honey to neutralize its bitterness .
But all of these suggestions have been quite futile. I believe

there are many things we wish we would like for the health
63
benefits they offer, but are unable to. My list of those foods
included broccoli and spinach and now of course dark
chocolate.
Part 3
1 Why do people love chocolate generally?
No one can deny that chocolates are delicious and almost

addictive. They are gooey, sweet, creamy and just melt in
your mouth. They are the ideal option if you wish to satiate
your sweet tooth.
Chocolates are also excellent stress relievers as well as

energizers and popping them into your mouth at the end of
a hard, stressful day immediately peps us your spirit and
elevates your mood.
2 What are the different types of chocolates?
There are a wide range of chocolate varieties to delight our

taste buds. Milk chocolate, dark chocolate and white choc-
olate are some of the common types I know about. Choco-
lates are combined with fruits or nuts like almonds or wal-
nuts or may have a thin crispy wafer and come in different
shapes and sizes. There are several well known chocolate
brands such as Nestle, Cadbury and Hersheys selling their
own unique chocolates.
3 Have you ever gifted chocolates to anyone?
Yes of course.I feel chocolates are a perfect gift for all occa-
sions and it is one present that everyone would be glad to
get. There are chocolates to match every budget. High end
premium chocolates are perfect for someone special. We
get chocolates packed in exquisite tin boxes, which gives
the packaging an elegant and extravagant look.
64
9 Describe a plant, vegetable or crop you are

familiar with
Say which it is and where it grows?
What you like or dislike about it
And explain why it is important in your country
Sample Answer Green thumb - interested

in gardening
My country India has a diverse variety of flora mainly due
Intimidating - scary
to its tropical weather, and one common household plant is
the aloe vera.It is found in gardens as well as homes as it Thrive - flourish
can be grown both indoor and outdoors.
Novice - new comer
Frankly I don’t have a green thumb and growing plants is Therapeutic - medicinal
quite intimidating for me.But I’m quite fond of this plant be-
cause it’s a low maintenance plant that can thrive without Hydrated - cause to ab-
much care. And so it’s a perfect choice for novices. sorb water
The aloe vera has a unique and attractive appearance.It

has a short stem with about fifteen to twenty leaves spread-
ing out like a rosette.
The leaves are light green in color, I think about 20-30 cms
long and are thick and fleshy.
I think the aloe vera looks spectacular when planted in

clusters or along a walkway and that’s the reason why it’s
commonly used in landscaping
It also looks incredibly pretty if you just put it in a terracotta

plant and place it indoors.
But aloe vera is more than a decorative plant. For centuries

it has been known for its therapeutic properties. The thick
leaves of the aloe vera are filled with a gel which can be
used to treat cuts, burns and insect bites.
Also its the latest beauty craze.The gel is supposed to be

very good for the skin and hair. It keeps the skin young
and hydrated, nourishes damaged hair and helps in hair
65
growth.
I use this gel quite frequently. Sometimes I apply it directly
on my face, other times I prepare a pack combining it with
honey and rose water. I have experienced its wonderful ef-
fects on my skin and complexion. So I must say this spikey
green plant is surely a wonder plant.
Part 3
1 Do people grow plants in your country?
Yes, people like to grow plants. Those in the countryside

plant a variety of agricultural crops, fruit trees, vegetables,
herbs etc, while those in towns and cities where space is
limited, generally have potted plants such as orchids, roses
and begonia. Some even cultivate vegetables such as to-
matoes, peas and beans in pots.
2 What plants are important to the economy of your coun-

try?
There is a huge demand for medicinal plants used in

Ayurveda medicine. Plants such as cocoa, tea, turmeric
and eucalyptus also have huge economic importance. India
is also one of the largest producers of fruits and vegeta-
bles. I believe the climatic and geographical conditions in
my country are conducive for a wide variety of horticultural
plants.
3 Do you think technology will change farming in the fu-

ture?
Technology has ushered in sweeping improvements in the

quality and yield of crops. In the future we can expect more
advances in genetic modification of crops. Packaging for
long term storage, improved nutritive quality, improvement
in techniques like hydroponics and aeroponics can be ex-
pected.
66
10 Describe a competition you would like to

take part in
Say what it is
What you would do in this competition
And explain why this interests you
Sample Answer Outperforming -

perform better than
I am an avid runner and have been jogging for most of my
Sparked my interest -
life. I’ve found it very effective for staying fit and healthy. So create interest
running a marathon is a challenge that I would like to take
up. Perseverance. - contin-
ued effort
All my running is limited to just a few rounds of a nearby
Plagued by - troubled by
park. So I have a keen desire to compete in a 5 km mara-
thon and win a prize.
I know its seems scary and almost impossible, but it is

something that I think will push me out of my comfort zone
My interest in marathons began after I read an article about
animals and long distance running.
To my surprise, humans were ranked on top, second only to

horses. I couldn’t believe that my body was capable of out-
performing lions and tigers, when it came to long distance
running. I think that is what sparked my interest in mara-
thons.
For the last few years I have been following the marathons
hosted in different cities.The energy, the passion, the excite-
ment I can see on the faces of the runners, both men and
women of all ages, is truly inspiring.
I know this will require commitment and perseverance.I will

need to practice rigorously for my body to adapt to running
for longer duration.
I also need to research the different marathons and decide

one that would be appropriate for me and finally register for
it. I feel more than the physical preparation, I would need
to prepare myself mentally for the challenge. Anxiety, self
67
doubts and fear often tempt me to quit the idea. I am often

plagued by questions like - will I be able to finish? What if
I injure myself? So I need to conquer these fears and push
on.
I know crossing the finish line in a marathon ahead of oth-
ers will be a proud moment for me. I will be proud that I was
able to push my boundaries and exceed my limits.
Part 3
1 Is competition good?
Yes definitely. Competitions push people out of their com-

placency and motivate them to excel. It makes them in-
novate and be more creative. It also teaches how to take
setbacks and failures gracefully and prepares them for wins
and losses in life. Competitions also develop skills such as
perseverance, tenacity and resilience. At the workplace,
encouraging healthy competition pushes employees to
achieve higher goals and raise the performance bar.
2 What is the difference between healthy and unhealthy

competition?
Unhealthy competition emphasizes the outcome rather than

the process or the journey. When winning becomes the sole
focus, a person or team may be compelled to do whatever it
takes to win, such as adopting unethical practices or tear-
ing others down. Healthy competition on the other hand,
puts more focus on participating than on winning.
3 What kind of competitions do people take part in?
There are a host of competitions in sports, academics, at

the workplace or those involving other talents such as mu-
sic, dance, painting and so on.
68
4 Why are there so many competition programmes on tele-

vision?
I think there is an abundance of talent and these reality
shows on television help to showcase and nurture them.
A second reason is that such shows like Indian Idol, Star
Singer etc enjoy huge popularity and high TRP ratings.
There is plenty of drama in such shows with the reactions
of the judges, the rivalry of the contestants, the emotions
when results are announced, the lively compering etc. So
on the whole I think these shows are quite high on the en-
tertainment factor. Also we see ordinary people becoming
stars overnight, which is very appealing to the audience.
69
11 A time when you observed the stars

Say when you observed the stars
Where and with who you went
What you observed
And explain how you felt when you saw the stars
Sample Answer Enthralling - amazing
I recently had an enthralling experience of viewing a clear Spell binding - captivat-

ing
and glittery sky. It was a spellbinding sight.We had gone on
a trip to Munnar , a hill station located almost 2000 ft above Overwhelmed - over-
the sea level. While we were there, one night our guide took come
us on a stargazing trip.
Out of the world -
extraordinary/superb
We headed out to a nearby mountain armed with warm
clothes, insect repellants ,blankets and of course binocu-
lars.
The sky was clear and pitch black and the stars were shin-
ing so brightly that I literally gasped. When we reached the
mountain top, we camped there for the night and as we lay
under the dazzling, twinkling sky, I was overwhelmed with
wonder.
I had downloaded an app for looking at stars . Once it is

installed and we set our location, the app indicates what is
in the sky right above us.
All we need to do is point the phone at the night sky and

the app informs us what we are seeing -whether it is stars,
constellations satellites, or the International Space Station.
Using the app, we were thrilled to discover that the bright

white star hovering over the horizon was actually Venus.
Our guide told us that the International Space station,

which is home to six astronauts from around the world, is a
frequent sight, but unfortunately we did not see it that day.
I felt so happy and calm just looking at the vast expanse

of the sky. I feel stargazing is a fine way to travel far outside
70
the four walls of our home and our limited surroundings.

Truly lying underneath the stars is an out of the world expe-
rience. It fills us with marvel and wonder at the beauty of
the infinite cosmos.
Part 3
1 Why do people like to study the sky?
I think astronomy holds great fascination for everyone. The

vast expanse of the cosmos fuels people’s curiosity. While
amateurs just like to enjoy looking at the stars, planets and
constellations, professionals like to push the boundaries
of knowledge and expand their understanding of what lies
beyond. Organizations such as NASA and ISRO launch sat-
ellites and rockets as well as various other space projects
to get a deeper understanding of celestial bodies like aster-
oids, meteors, galaxies, planets and so on.
2 Do you know any stories related to planets?

I have not read any stories related to planets but have
watched plenty of science fiction movies based on space,
planets and extra terrestrial beings such as Star Wars, Star
Trek and Interstellar.
3 Do you think children should be told planet stories to im-

prove their imagination?
Yes definitely. Space is an interesting topic for children and
the little ones may be filled with wonder about things like
the stars, the moon and the sun. So fictional stories based
on space, the planet and galaxies would pique their interest
and fire their imagination. I also believe that as they grow
older they should be given interesting books which would
introduce them to the facts about space - such as the milky
way galaxy or how astronauts survive in zero gravity and so
on.
4 Would children be benefitted from watching stars?

I think stargazing is a fun activity. It can fill children with
wonder and excitement. It can also spark interest in science
or astronomy from an early age. Buying them inexpensive
binoculars or telescopes, taking them on visits to planetari-
ums etc would help them explore the heavenly objects and
71
gain more knowledge about them. However, even if children

are not very interested in astronomy, such activities would
be a nice time for family bonding and would give children
some great memories.
5 Did you like to watch the sky when you were young?
Yes I always had a fascination for the sky especially during
sunset and sunrise. Growing up in the countryside, I was
able to view the vast expanse of the sky easily and I still
remember the fiery reddish orange sky in the evenings.
Sometimes we used to go to the beach, where the sunsets
were truly breathtaking.
72
12 Talk about a special day which was not

that expensive or on which you did not spend
a lot of money
Say when it was
What the occasion was
What you did
And explain how you felt
Sample Answer
Feelers - remarks de-
It was my father’s birthday. My brother and I started making signed to bring out the
opinion of others
plans on how to celebrate this day weeks in advance. From
a surprise party at home to a dinner at a luxury hotel, we Ardent - enthusiastic
explored a variety of options.
Buddies - friends
We also started trying to get some feelers from our father
Screen share - sharing
about what his most ardent desires were. During one such the contents of your
conversation, we realised that he greatly missed his class- screen with another
mates at school. device
That set us on a hunting trail and we managed to find the

whereabouts of almost twenty of his closest buddies at
school, many of whom had moved abroad.
We decided to arrange a zoom party on his birthday in-

viting all these friends. We sent out the links to the zoom
party. We instructed them all to have a candle and matches
ready to light and hold onto the screen to have the birthday
boy blow them all out at once.
We also asked everyone to have their cakes ready, so ev-

eryone could eat together.
We decorated the room with string lights, flowers and bal-

loons. Once everyone had logged in I brought my father
into the room.
His eyes opened wide with wonder and excitement as he

saw all of his long forgotten buddies right before his eyes.
He was totally surprised as all guests broke into the birth-
day song. He blew the candles and cut the cake.
73
After the cake cutting, we had some activities. Mainly we

got everyone to sing along with my father. We screen
shared karaoke videos of his favourite old Malayalam hit
songs.
After about an hour, we wound up the party. On the count of
three everyone shouted one final Happy Birthday and then
waved goodbye.
It was not a fancy celebration but it created some fun mo-

ments and wonderful memories on a very humble budget.
I realized we don’t have to spend too much to build lasting
memories and fill our lives with laughter.
Part 3
1 What events do people in your country like to celebrate?
In my country people celebrate different types of occasions.

They usually celebrate milestone birthdays such as the first,
eighteenth, fiftieth and so on. Wedding anniversaries, the
beginning of a year,the birth of a baby, getting a promotion
or a job are also events that call for a party with friends and
family. Religious festivals are also occasions for elaborate
celebrations.
2 Why are celebrations important?
Celebrations are a way of marking the milestones in our

life.They also serve as occasions for people to meet, so-
cialise and build bonds. They give much needed break from
the drudgery of day to day life , allow people to let their hair
down and create lasting memories. So I believe they play a
key role in people’s lives.
3 Why do some people like parties and others hate them?

I think people enjoy parties since they are fun occasions to
meet friends, enjoy good food, music and dance. However
those with introverted nature may feel shy and awkward as
74
they struggle to deal with social situations. Such people are

happier to be on their own.
4 Why do some people prefer grand celebrations?
There are some who are more inclined towards lavish

bashes, with guest lists running into hundreds, conducted
at luxurious venues with multi-course menu, grand decor
with fresh flowers, drapes and lights and of course music
and dance. Very often highly affluent people opt for such
extravagant celebrations. The reason for this could be to
flaunt their wealth or just to make the day memorable and
enjoyable for everyone.
5 Do you think celebrating national events too lavishly is a

waste of money?
I don’t think so. Celebrating them is a way of reinforcing

our patriotism and sense of nationality. It also serves as an
occasion to foster unity as well as pride in our accomplish-
ments as a nation.
6 How can people plan for an event?
I think every event, be it small or large, needs detailed plan-

ning. Establishing the budget, picking the venue and date,
the food options and entertainment are the most important
aspects. Organising games, music and dance as well as
decorations for the venue and making the guest list are
parts of the event planning checklist.
7 Have you ever had a bad shopping experience?
Yes, I had an unpleasant experience recently. I had or-

dered a top from a new online store, only to find that it was
a fake site. The product I received was very poor in quality
and had no resemblance to what was shown in the picture.
There was no way to contact them as the contact numbers
were also fake. That is when I realized that there are scam-
mers who run fraudulent sites and sell counterfeit goods.
Since then I make it a point to shop only from reputed
stores.
75
8 What are the advantages and disadvantages of shopping

online?
The biggest perk of shopping online is the convenience. We

can shop sitting on our couch, free of hassles like pushy
salespeople, long queues at cash counters, crowds and the
chaos. We can land some great deals, discounts, rebates
and access a much wider range of items from any part of
the world. Another advantage is that we get to make more
informed choices as we can research ratings and reviews
before making purchases.
On the other hand there are some negatives. One down-

side is the delay in shipping the items.Also risks of frauds,
credit card scams, hacking, counterfeit products and bogus
websites are quite common. The fact that we cannot touch,
feel or try items, especially garments is another concern.
76
13 Describe something that helps you

concentrate
Say what it is
When you do it
How you learnt about it
And explain how it helps you concentrate
Sample Answer Depletion - decrease
With all the stress , distraction and continuous multitask- Tangible - clearly visible
ing, I had begun to experience a depletion in my concen-
Diehard - strong
tration levels.
At length - in detail
That’s when my friend Sweta suggested that I should try
meditation. It has been about four months since I started Sidetrack - become
doing this activity and I can observe a tangible change in distracted
my focus and attention.
Sweta is a diehard fan of meditation and always talks at

length about its positive effects. She told me that it has a
strong and transformative effect on the brain, helping peo-
ple focus and concentrate better.It also reduces stress and
increases inner peace and happiness.
She advised me to start with 10 minute sessions and then

build up gradually. I agreed to give it a try and started my
sessions.
It was quite frustrating in the beginning as my mind kept

getting distracted. Sweta had told me to just concentrate on
my breath as I inhaled and exhaled and to count my cycles.
I realized that my mind would begin to wander before I

counted even up to 3. At each session several thoughts
and feelings kept sidetracking me and I had to shake them
off and bounce back to the object of my focus.
With time and patience, however, my ability to focus im-

proved .After about one month, I had gained better control
of my wandering mind and could count longer. I increased
my meditation time to 20 minutes and then half an hour.
Today, I can experience several benefits of this activity. My

77
focus has sharpened and I’m much more productive and

goal oriented.
Part 3
1 When do you need to concentrate?
Concentration is vital for everything we do as it improves

the quality of work and minimises scope of error.I think
multitasking does not bring quality. Whatever we do, wheth-
er it is having a conversation, watching a movie, reading a
book, doing an assignment , cooking or driving, concentra-
tion is key to achieving better outcomes.
2 Why do people find it hard to concentrate ?

Concentration difficulties can be related to intrusive
thoughts , overactivity, or inattention. It is believed that psy-
chological conditions like anxiety and depression can also
hinder concentration. In addition, I think external distur-
bances such as notifications on the mobile, honking of vehi-
cles etc can also pose hindrances to concentration.
3 How can we improve concentration?

I think brain training games, improved sleep, exercise and
meditation can have a big impact on concentration.
4 Do you think you can do many things at the same time?

I am not a huge fan of multitasking. I think when we try to
get more quantity work done, the quality gets compromised.
5 Is it important for children to learn how to concentrate?

It is vital for children to master the art of concentration. It
has far reaching benefits in their life. It helps them do better
in studies. Academic activities require them to concentrate
for long hours. Improved attention span also improves their
relationships and confidence.
6 What can employers do to help employees concentrate

better?
Concentration levels of employees directly affect produc-
78
tivity and consequently the growth of the business.Hence

this is an aspect employers need to give serious thought to.
Employees can be encouraged to turn off their mobiles, but
take regular breaks to check their phones. Providing the
staff with the right tools and equipment would allow work-
flow to go unhindered.The work environment must also be
free of noise and distractions and must be comfortable.
7 What kinds of jobs require higher concentration?

I think concentration is a key ingredient for best outcomes.
From a baker to a surgeon, almost all jobs need sharp
focus.I think jobs that require working with numbers or data
especially require a peaceful and quiet work environment.
Accountants, business analysts and programmers need
keen focus. Writers both fiction as well as non fiction writers
such as novelists, copy writers, bloggers etc also crave for
peace.
79
14 Describe an activity you do to keep fit

Say what it is
When and where you do it
How you do it
And explain how it keeps you fit
Sample Answer Tweak - to make changes
A daily habit that has made my life healthier and happier is Cinch - easy
a morning walk. Two years back, when the lockdown was
Sluggish - slow
imposed, working from home meant that my only commute
was from one room to the other and in this new routine I Ripple effects -
had gained a few kilos. continuing effects of an
action
I knew I needed to tweak my daily routine and add some
Incorporated - included
kind of adoptable healthy habit. I considered several op-
tions and I figured out that a morning walk would be the
ideal one.
I am lucky that the small town I live in is spotted with a

number of open grounds. I chose the vast ground of a
nearby school and my neighbourhood buddy, a retired
bank employee, was keen to join me.
Like two excited school kids, we made our plans. We de-

cided to wake up at 5 and go for a walk early in the morn-
ing in the nearby school ground.I’m not an early riser and
waking up early was the first battle.
When the alarm went off at 5 my first impulse was just to

switch it off and go back to sleep, but in a week or two I
managed to wake up early and now it’s a cinch
I can sense that the morning walk has benefited me in

many ways. I was able to achieve my weight loss goals
very soon. The most noticeable change is in my energy
levels.I feel so much more energetic.
Earlier I used to be sluggish and slow and tired throughout

the day but now I’m full of energy and I feel these walks
give me an energy boost and I’m much more produc-
tive than I typically used to be. Of course daily walks can
80
strengthen the heart and lungs and ease joint pain and
much more.
I think such healthy habits not only improve physical health

but also have ripple effects on our overall well being. I pat
myself on my back for having incorporated and sustained
this healthy habit in my routine.
Part 3
1 What do old people in your country do to keep fit?

There are many elderly people who are conscious of main-
taining fitness and try to include some kind of exercises.
Some of them go for walks, while others may do some
bending or stretching exercises recommended by their doc-
tors.
2 Why do some people enjoy extreme sports?

I know there are many people who are daring enough to
try dangerous sports like bungee jumping, base jumping,
kayaking etc. They do these sports for the excitement, the
adrenaline rush and the thrill it gives. They like to push their
limits and face their fears. Probably it gives them great sat-
isfaction to accomplish dangerous feats. However I find
them too scary. Just the very thought of jumping out of an
airplane or off a cliff gives me goosebumps.
3 What are some popular outdoor activities in India?

In India I think most common outdoor recreational activities
include trekking, hiking and camping. Young people love to
go on long bike rides. Photography and bird watching are
also activities many people are interested in. If there are
water bodies, fishing, swimming or boating are also delight-
ful activities people like to do.
4 How do outdoor games benefit children?

Such games can be very critical for the healthy develop-
ment of children. They give more opportunities for activities
like jumping, climbing, running etc. When they are outdoors,
children explore the environment and develope a connec-
tion with nature and such games also build social skills.
81
5 What is the difference between indoor and outdoor

sports?
Indoor sports such as chess or carroms are played inside
the house and involve very little physical exertion. On the
other hand, outdoor sports like cricket, football, badminton
etc involve a lot of physical movements such as running,
jumping and leaping. Also outdoor activities bring people
closer to nature and offer greater opportunities for making
friends and building relationships
82
15 Describe a fishing area you visited

Say where it is
When you visited it
What you did there
Sample Answer Captivated - fascinated
Tranquil - peaceful
I had an exciting experience of seeing people fishing while
on a trip to God’s own country Kerala around five years Teem - full of
back. We were staying in a resort called Vembanad Lake
Resort, overlooking Lake Vembanad. Haul - catch
It was a charming place and we were captivated by the

view of the tranquil lake and the gently swaying coconut
trees bordering the lake.
While we were there our gracious host invited us one day

to see how the local community caught fish at the lake. He
explained to us that the backwaters of Kerala teem with
fish especially during the monsoons.
Casting a net was the most common method and fisher-

men would get a good haul. I saw fishermen throwing nets
over the water surface and when they pulled back the nets
after some time,they were filled with small and medium
sized fishes.
Some fishermen went further into the lake on canoes to

cast their nets. It was quite scary to see them balance
themselves in the canoe while doing this. But they were
highly skilled and had a great sense of balance.
We were also surprised to see children catching fish with

fishing lines. We watched how they hooked earthworms to
the fishing rods as bait. We also learned some names of
the fish such as mackerel, salmon, pearl spot and pomfret.
I too tried my hand at fishing. I waited for about 15 min-

utes, rod in hand, for a fish to bite my bait but nothing was
happening. After that to my great excitement a fish bit and
I hauled up the rod. My first catch was about 6 inches and
83
was a slimy brown coloured fish.
On the whole, the green shady trees and the vast blue
expanse of the lake, the vibrance and energy of the local
community all together made it a pleasant and memorable
outdoor experience.
Part 3
Which is the most popular water sport in your country?

India has vast coastlines and therefore water sports are
quite popular. I think river rafting, surfing, kayaking and sail-
ing are the most popular ones.
Why are people interested in doing different activities relat-

ed to water?
Water based activities are exhilarating and enjoyable. They
give a more thrilling experience than activities on land and
it is less tiring. Splashing and frolicking in the water cools
the body especially during the hot summers and it is an
ideal way to be in perfect harmony with nature.
Should schools teach swimming to the students?

Swimming is not only a survival skill but an excellent exer-
cise as it is a high intensity cardio workout.So it would defi-
nitely help children stay fit and healthy. Also If children are
good swimmers, they can not only escape water accidents,
but can even offer a helping hand in case they see a per-
son drowning at some point. in their life. Being in water is
also an excellent relaxation for students after their gruelling
studies..
4 Why should water transport be developed?
Water transport is a cheap and non polluting form of trans-

portation. There are plenty of places that are amenable to
different modes of water transport like country boats, motor
boats and jengars and hence infrastructure should be de-
veloped to cater to the needs of people living close to water
bodies like lakes, rivers etc.
84
16 Describe an introvert whom you know

Who he is
How you know him
What makes him an introvert
And explain how you feel about this person
Sample Answer Stood the test of time - to

continue for a long time
In college we were a gang of four friends. We used to do
Introspective - to exam-
everything together, from preparing for exams and shop- ine one’s thoughts and
ping to bunking classes and playing pranks on others. We feelings
are all in different places now, but still our friendship has
stood the test of time. Video chats, texting, sharing pic- Outgoing -friendly
tures on social media and occasional get-togethers kept Spectrum - range
our bond intact.
Got along - have a good
relationship with
Among us Shyla was always quiet, reserved and introspec- Small talk
tive, while all the others were outgoing and talkative. Due
to these different traits that Shyla had, we all understood
early on that she was an introvert. While we all were social
butterflies who loved to socialise and party, Shyla preferred
to spend a quiet time with her books or hobbies.Although
Shyla and the rest of us were like two ends of the person-
ality spectrum,we got along very well.
I have realized that Shyla is not the kind of person who

likes small talk . While we could go on chatting about su-
perficial matters, such as the weather or fashions, Shyla
likes deep and meaningful conversations. She feels very
comfortable in our group and is chatty and bubbly but when
she meets new people she tends to withdraw into her own
shell.
Shyla is one of the most sincere and straightforward peo-

ple I have ever known. She is very understanding, takes
genuine interest in others and is also a very good listener.
I feel very comfortable confiding in her and she always has
nuggets of wisdom to pass on to me.
I have always felt that introverts are often misunderstood

85
and undervalued. Our culture gives greater importance to

values like assertiveness and being outgoing rather than for
self reflection or contemplation, which make introverts very
special.
Knowing Shyla has increased my appreciation for this intel-

ligent, refined and sensitive personality type.
Part 3
1 Why do people get nervous when they speak in public?

People often experience stage fright, stress and anxiety
when they have to face an audience. This can range from
panic to a paralysing fear. It could be because they are in
the spotlight and all eyes are on them.
2 How can people improve their public speaking skills?

I think people can overcome stage fright and become confi-
dent in public speaking through practice and proper prepa-
ration. There are several speaking groups such as Toast-
masters that help polish public speaking skills.
3 What kind of different lectures or speeches have you

attended?
I have attended a host of different lectures and speeches in
various forums and venues.Many of them were of course
connected with my course in college or school. I am also
very interested in listening to motivational speakers as well
as attending workshops and seminars related to my pro-
fession, where I get to listen to experts sharing their inputs.
Functions such as farewell parties, centenary celebrations
etc have speakers giving speeches related to the occasion.
4 What qualities should a public speaker have?

I think a thorough knowledge about the topic is a key factor.
Effective public speakers should have excellent communi-
cation skills and the ability to grab the attention of the audi-
ence. Use of humour, body language, intonation and pitch
modulation are qualities of a master orator.
5 Why is it hard to give a talk to young children?

Children may get bored very easily and lose focus. If speak-
86
ers just stand and deliver their talk, children will probably
never pay attention. They are mostly visual learners so
using some kind of visual aids during the speech would be
helpful.
87
17 Describe something that saves your time

Say what it is
When you usually do it
Why you do it
And explain how you think it saves your time
Sample Answer
One thing which has proved to be a massive time saver in Barrage - to come in a
my life is grocery delivery service. fast continuous flow
I have always been quite a busy bee struggling hard to bal- Tedious - tiring
ance my professional and personal fronts. My daily routine
Evades - escapes
is so hectic with the barrage of workplace and household
responsibilities, that at times I feel 24 hours are not enough Navigating - to find a
to finish all my work. direction
Grocery shopping is one such tedious and unavoidable

chore. Every time I realize we have run out of something I
pop over to the store.
Each trip means spending more time than I need to. I end
up walking around the aisles attracted by the ‘top deals’
and ‘ lowest price offers”. If the aisles are overcrowded and
the queue at the check out is long, the minutes spent at the
store pile up higher.
I have made many attempts to avoid these frequent trips.

I have tried to do some planning in advance but there al-
ways seems to be something that evades my attention like
a packet of salt or detergent.
Home delivery has proved to be an amazing time saver.

Groceries delivered right at our doorstep!
I am really amazed by the amount of time it saves me. I

can just shop from my couch, my office or when I am on
the move, without navigating crowded aisles and lengthy
cashier queues. I can keep adding items to my cart as and
when I remember til the day of delivery. This means that I
don’t have to trek to the store each time I forget something.
Free time had become a scarce commodity for me, but

thanks to grocery delivery services, now I have lots more
88
time which I can spend more productively.
Sample Answer 2
I have always wanted to manage my time better and be-

come more organized and efficient with my time. One prac-
tical thing that has given me considerable success in this
area is making a plan for the day.
I have seen that a lot of time gets wasted without proper

planning.
Often I end up going several times to the store or perhaps

forgetting something behind at home and then having to go
back again, forgetting important office tasks and spending
more time on something which was not that important. All of
this means precious time wasted.
I have realized that having a plan of action for my day, a

clear to do list, helps me stay focussed. I have a clear mind-
set of how I need to move to accomplish all that needs to
be done.
Writing all my tasks on paper makes it look more manage-

able. After the task is done, crossing it off the list gives a
sense of progress and achievement. I feel this spurs me on
and motivates me to keep going.
To do list also means that I do not end up mindlessly scroll-

ing through social media posts. Without proper plans, it was
hard for me to resist the urge to go from one post to the
next or one video to another.
But ever since I have started making daily plans, I have

been able to strictly limit my screen time also.
All it takes to put pen to paper and make this list is just
about five to ten minutes each morning. Time truly well
spent.
89
Part 3
1 How can we avoid wasting time?

It is very crucial to make the best use of time and avoid frit-
tering it away on unproductive activities. Time tracking helps
us to know how exactly we are spending minutes and hours
and identify areas that need to change. Also making a list
of priorities or a daily timetable of things to do helps us
accomplish more and keeps us focussed. I believe avoiding
distractions like social media notifications, messages etc is
yet another way we can save precious minutes.
2 Is time management important?
If you lose money, you might get a chance to make it back;

but a wasted time is irreplaceable. It is a finite resource and
time lost is lost forever. Hence managing time in an optimal
manner is essential to be successful. It allows us to create
a healthy balance in our workflow and home life and in-
creases productivity.
3 Should parents teach children time management?
Yes I believe it is a core skill that will be highly useful to

them all through their life. Parents can encourage children
to make a daily schedule incorporating various activities
like study, home work, play, television time etc. Parents can
also set good examples by regulating media time and being
more disciplined.
4 Is it a waste of time to relax?

Definitely not. Leisure time is indispensable and vital for
physical and mental well being. It helps us unwind and is a
perfect antidote for stress. Setting aside time periodically to
relax energises us and enhances our output.
90
18 Describe a friend you like to talk with

Say who he is
What you like to talk about
Why you like to talk with him
And explain why you like to talk with him
Sample Answer Anecdotes - incidents
Ups and downs - happy

I have a large circle of friends with whom I enjoy hang-
and sad moments
ing out ,just cracking jokes, sharing funny anecdotes or
discussing the latest series on Amazon Prime. However, Shortcomings - faults
among them Rani is my closest friend with whom I have
the most meaningful conversations. Non judgemental -
without judging others
When I spend time with Rani, conversations go much Sounding board - some-
deeper than just the light and superficial talks I generally one you use to test an
do with other friends and acquaintances. So generally our idea
topics are not films, fashions or TV shows.
In a huff - angrily
We talk about our struggles, our fears or our plans. Some- Vented - released
times we argue and get into debates which even get a little
heated but still our friendship remains strong as ever. Sulk - to be bad
tempered
Rani has been with me through the ups and downs in my
life and has been my support system. She knows me in-
side out and accepts me with all my shortcomings.So I can
always be me, when I am with her.
I can communicate openly.She is always non judgemental

and tries to see things from my point of view and gives me
her honest opinions.
Whenever I am planning to do something I go to Rani who

is like a sounding board to test my ideas. She always gives
me her honest feedback.
A few months back when I wanted to resign in a huff since

my junior colleague had been promoted to a post I was
expecting. Rani listened to me patiently as I vented all my
frustration and anger.
Then she advised me not to sulk and behave immature-

ly but rather to do some serious self evaluation and try to
91
upskill myself.
That was the best advice I received.It was unpleasant but

only a true friend would talk to me so bluntly. I think true
friends are irreplaceable.
Part 3
1 What topics do young people in India talk about?

Young people today are exposed to global culture and they
often talk of Hollywood movies, music, celebrities, and
sports. They also like to talk about education and job oppor-
tunities abroad, their goals and future plans. There are also
some young people who are interested in politics and social
issues.
2 What is the difference between the topics that are popular

now and the popular topics in the past?
I believe in the past, topics were mostly limited to local or
national matters. In the pre internet era, people had limited
access to global events and happenings. Also there was
more interest in matters concerning the community at large
than personal affairs.
3 How do you know if others are not interested in the con-

versation?
There are many ways to know if others are not connecting
with us in a conversation. Body language is one important
cue. People crossing their arms while speaking or looking
elsewhere is a sign of disinterest. Also they may not con-
tribute much to the conversation or ask questions and their
responses may be perfunctory.
4 What is the influence of modern technology such as the

internet and emails on our communication?
The rise of the internet and social media use has dramat-
ically changed the way people communicate and main-
tain friendships. Now people can use email, social media,
chat messengers, video conferencing, video calls, images,
videos, symbols, diagrams, charts, and emoticons, etc.
for communication. Geographical distances have been
eliminated and it is possible for us to maintain friendships
across countries. Modern technology also allows 24*7 con-
92
nectivity . However high internet use may lead to lack of

social skills and increase feelings of loneliness, and deprive
us of real and more intimate face to face communication.
93
19 Describe something important that you

lost
Say what you lost
When and where you lost it
What you did to find it
And explain how you felt about it
Sample Answer Audiophile - one who

loves music
I am really very careful with my things and rarely lose them.
Unmatched - without
However recently my earphones went missing, but I had comparison
the good fortune of getting them back.
Frantically - with fear
I’m a bit of an audiophile and I love listening to music.So and anxiety
a few months back I bought a new pair of expensive ear- Rummaged - searched
phones.I bought them from House of Marley after doing
extensive research. They have unmatched sound clarity
and base.
I adored my earphones and I couldn’t get enough of them.

I carried them wherever I went and last week I had to ac-
company my niece to her dance rehearsal at school be-
cause her parents were busy.
As soon as I reached the classroom I wrapped up my ear-

phones in a knot and kept them on a table. Just then my
niece’s teacher walked in. So I went to have a chat with her.
We talked for a while and then I watched their rehearsal.
And afterwards I returned to the table where I had kept my
earphones and to my horror the entire table was cleaned
out.
I was panic stricken. I frantically searched all over but I

couldn’t find my prized earphones.
Anxiety and dread began to creep in. My niece suggested

talking to the cleaning lady. We went to her and she told us
she had cleaned the class and all the waste was collected
in trash bags.
So we quickly hunted out the trash bags, rummaged

through them and miraculously found my earphones.
94
A wave of relief passed over me.Luckily they did not get

dirty as the bags contained only paper waste.I was over-
joyed and I profusely thanked the staff.Since then I try to be
more mindful about where I put my belongings.
Part 3
1 Why do people lose things?

It could be because they are absent minded, or maybe they
are preoccupied with several things. There are also greater
chances of losing things when people are tired, stressed,
disturbed or in a hurry.
2 What are the things people lose?

People frequently misplace things of everyday use such as
keys, pens, chargers, wallets, the TV remote or even mobile
phones
3 How can people find things they have lost?

It can be frustrating and annoying to lose things but it’s pos-
sible to find them.We need to stay calm. First we must try to
figure out where we may have kept it where we last used or
saw it. We also need to retrace our steps and look every-
where - cupboards and boxed and every nook and corner.
4 How can we avoid losing things?

We can avoid losing things by being more organised. We
should set designated places for every object. We should
form habits and rules. We should also be more mindful of
where we put things away.
95
20 Describe an interesting thing you have

learned from a foreign culture
Say what it was
How you learnt it
Why you learnt it
And explain how you think it will help others
Sample Answer Mindblowing - amazing
Alien - Unfamiliar
I believe knowing about other cultures is very enriching
and each culture has something valuable to teach us. One Discarded - thrown away
such thing I have learned is the art of Kintsugi from the
Japanese culture. Flaws - defects
Dejected - upset
I read some articles on this art and it gave me a wholly
new perspective. Demoralized -
discouraged
Kintsugi is a 400 year old technique of repairing broken
vessels by sealing the cracks with liquid gold. When we
break a bowl or vase we throw it away as useless but with
Kintsugi the cracks are not hidden but made more visible
and the cracks filled with gold make the vessel more beau-
tiful and valuable.
This concept is truly a mindblowing one and quite alien to

our use and throw culture where every broken thing gets
discarded off as junk. Kintsugi has taught me to repair and
repurpose things rather than throwing them away.
The Japanese also apply Kintsugi to their lives. They be-

lieve that broken, painful and difficult parts of our life make
us stronger and better.
Mistakes, wounds, hurts and failures are all part of our

lives.But all this can be used as raw material to create
something more amazing. So we don’t need to be ob-
sessed with being perfect. Imperfections can also create
beauty when approached with an open and positive atti-
tude.
Applying this philosophy in my life has made me more opti-

mistic and joyful. Any crack that I see in my life, caused by
pain, failures or hurts, I am ready to fill it and move ahead
96
with the confidence that no experience is wasted. Kintsugi

has taught me not to be dejected and demoralized by my
scars and flaws, but to accept and celebrate them.
Part 3
1 What is the importance of traditions and festivals?

Festivals and traditions are part of our culture and they help
us understand our glorious heritage and pass them on to
the next generation. They also play a vital role not only in
strengthening our relationships, and deepening our sense
of community, but also giving us special moments of fun
and togetherness.
2 What is the difference between celebrations in the past

and those now?
I believe there is more importance on splurging and out-
ward celebrations these days, compared to the past. The
sense of community and the togetherness also seems to
have diminished as people hardly have time for get togeth-
ers and celebrations.
3 Do you think western festivals like Christmas are replac-

ing traditional festivals?
The influence of global culture is undoubtedly being felt in
all aspects of life today and we have adopted many western
ideas such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s day etc. These days
festivals like Christmas are also celebrated with great gus-
to among Indians , of course more for the pomp and splen-
dour rather than the religious significance.
4 Is it wrong for children not to celebrate festivals?

Yes I believe it would not be proper for children to be indif-
ferent to festivals. They are essential to nurture bonds with
family, friends, and society and to create a sense of unity.
Festivals also help children experience and understand
their rich culture and heritage and thus keeps them rooted
in their identity.
97
21 Describe an occasion when you got a

positive feedback for work that you did
Say when it happened
What you did
Why you got positive feedback
Sample Answer Kudos - praise
Apprehensive - fearful
I still remember the kudos and appreciation my friends
and I received in our final year of college. We had been Falling short of - not
assigned the task of hosting the send off party for our prin- reaching
cipal and my teacher had made me the team leader. We
were all apprehensive about this huge responsibility and Brainstorming - thinking
of ideas
dreaded the thought of falling short of everyone’s expecta-
tions. Tirelessly - without rest-
ing
However we decided to give it our best shot .We started off
immediately with brainstorming sessions and drew up a Hiccups - problems
to-do list. We had to create an estimated budget and get Skyrocketed - increased
approval, draw up the guest list, choose a caterer , order dramatically
the memento etc.
We split all the work among us and set off tirelessly to

accomplish what we were assigned to do. It was hard work
for a week but I can say working as a team made it fun and
enjoyable. It kept all of us enthusiastic and on our toes. Ev-
ery evening we used to meet over tea and banana fritters
to track each one’s progress and coordinate the flow.
As the day approached, our stress levels went up, but we

kept encouraging and supporting each other. There were
no last minute hiccups or disasters and our mission was
accomplished.
To our great relief, the event went off smoothly and we got
wide appreciation from everyone for organizing everything
so well. We all felt very proud of the validation and positive
feedback we got. Words of appreciation came from the
principal, our teachers and also our guests.
I must say being showered with all those praises felt really
good. We were thrilled at being recognised for all our ef-
98
forts. Our self worth and motivation surely skyrocketed. A

pat on the back is truly a wonderful feeling.
Part 3
1 How can children help their parents?

Children can assist parents mainly with simple household
chores like tidying the house, washing dishes, clearing the
table etc. They should also be encouraged to keep their
rooms clean, fold their clothes, polish their shoes etc.
2 Should parents reward children when they help them?

Rewards are an effective way of reinforcing positive be-
haviour. Children will feel motivated to continue doing such
work when they feel they are appreciated for it.
3 What are the benefits of children helping parents?

By helping parents, children become more competent and
confident. In the process of doing various kinds of chores,
they learn valuable life skills. Also helping parents reduces
their work and gives more time to spend with the children.
4 Do people help others more than in the past?

I think people are now too preoccupied with their own affairs
and hardly have the time or the inclination to help others.
However in the past there was a closer sense of community
and willingness to reach out to others.
5 Should parents teach children to help others?
Being caring and helpful are vital qualities that should be

instilled in children. It can be done by setting good exam-
ples for them to copy. Parents should exhibit a culture of
selflessness and compassion in their words and deeds.
6 Which professions involve helping others?

Doctors, nurses, teachers, those involved with emergency
services all help people in need.
7 Why are some people very willing to help others?

They may be compassionate and selfless by nature. They
always put others and their interests before their own and
hence they are ever ready to lend a helping hand.
99
8 Should people today participate more in voluntary work?

Volunteering is a way of giving something back to the com-
munity. It can make a serious impact on the lives of those
less fortunate. On a personal level it will offer new life ex-
periences and insights into social issues and get people
out of their comfort zones. Hence I believe volunteering
should be a part of our lives.
9 Is international aid important?

Yes definitely. International aid can contribute to fighting
poverty, hunger and help get access to medical care in
poor countries. Studies reveal that millions die in third world
countries due to preventable diseases and nearly 30.5 mil-
lion face starvation. Financial aid also helps such countries
build their economy through developmental programmes.
100
22 Describe a popular/well known person in

your country
Say who the person is
What he has done
Why he is popular
And explain how you feel about this person
Sample Answer Renown - fame
Philanthropic - helping
There are numerous people who have achieved great
others
renown in different walks of life such as business, sports,
politics or films. One such person is the actor Sonu Sood. Prowess - ability
He has acted in several films in Bollywood as well as the Initiative - effort

South Indian film industry. However Sood’s popularity Catapulted - launch
comes more from his philanthropic efforts than his acting
prowess. Spotlight - getting public
attention
About two years back I read about an initiative he had
undertaken through Facebook and began to follow him.
He helped migrant workers in Mumbai to reach their

homes during the nationwide lockdown due to the Covid
-19 pandemic.
As part of his ‘Ghar bhejo’ campaign, he helped over

12,000 migrants reach home. He launched a toll free num-
ber through which anyone could reach out to him for help.
During the second wave, he launched helplines to help

people find oxygen cylinders and hospital beds.He is also
helping underprivileged young people with free education
and scholarships.
These activities have catapulted Sonu Sood to the national

spotlight.
Recently Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal named Sonu

Sood brand ambassador for ‘Desh ke Mentors’ programme
to give career related guidance to government school stu-
dents in Delhi.
Sonu Sood’s Twitter followers have crossed the 10 million

101
mark and people still continue to approach the actor for

help. This real life hero, respected and admired across the
country, is a true inspiration.
Part 3
1 What are the qualities that make people popular?
I think there are several traits that are associated with pop-
ularity. Popular people generally have a great sense of
humour and are pleasant and fun loving. They are good
listeners and are ever ready to help and support others
sincerely. They treat everyone with respect and radiate a
warmth and openness, which makes others feel comfort-
able being with them.
2 Do you know of any popular film star who likes helping

people?
I think many film stars are involved in humanitarian activ-

ities. I have read that many Bollywood stars like Salman
Khan, Raveena Tandon and Akshay Kumar are actively in-
volved with NGOs and donate generously to the needy and
underprivileged. I also read somewhere that Nana Patekar
donated almost 90%of his earnings to charity every year.
3 Do you think children should imitate their idols?

It is definitely good for children to have idols. But often ce-
lebrities and famous stars seem to be obsessed with glam-
our, wealth and status. This would send unhealthy messag-
es to children and lead them to have wrong priorities in life.
It is important for children to imitate idols for the qualities
which made them reach those heights, such as determina-
tion, hard work, perseverance and dedication.
4 What influence do popular stars have on teenagers?

Stars who enjoy great media popularity have a powerful in-
fluence on teenagers. Young people look up to them, idolize
them and try to imitate them. Often celebrities are obsessed
102
with things like their body image, dressing styles, make up

or hair styles. This would motivate youngsters to give great-
er priority to these superficial matters. Celebrities also fail
to set up high standards of moral and ethical behaviour.
Hence generally I believe their influence is unhealthy.
5 Do you think popular stars have more or less freedom?

Fame comes at a price and mostly privacy and freedom are
the price. I think popular stars are constantly hounded by
the media and hence are generally unable to enjoy much
freedom. They are mostly denied simple pleasures like
going shopping with family or spending time in a park since
they are always in the public eye and can never enjoy priva-
cy.
103
23 Describe a time when you helped a child

Who you helped
What you did
Sample Answer Headed - go towards
Straddle - to sit or stand

A few months back I taught my neighbour’s son Appu how
with one leg on either
to ride a bicycle. Appu had just turned seven and on his side
birthday his parents gifted him a cycle, his long cherished
desire. Over the moon - very
happy
Seeing how eager he was to learn cycling and since his Brimming - overflowing
parents were busy those days, I offered to teach him. The
next morning we headed to the open area near our house. Ample - more than
enough
First I taught him how to straddle the cycle. I told him to
Gratification - satisfac-
stand on one side and lean it towards him and then get on tion
it. The cycle was big for Appu and when he sat on the seat
his feet were a few inches above the ground.He seemed a
bit uneasy as he sat on the cycle.
I asked him to look ahead and start pedaling. Holding on

to the seat and handle bars I jogged alongside as Appu
pedalled furiously. Occasionally I let go and allowed Appu
to balance. Slowly I released my hold for longer and longer
time till Appu was balancing on his own. I kept a close eye
on him all the while, running alongside, ready to grab him if
necessary.
In about an hour, Appu had learnt to balance the bicycle

and ride on his own. I was huffing and puffing with all the
running but Appu was over the moon. He didn’t want to
stop.It was not long before he was brimming with confi-
dence and taking on new riding obstacles and challenges.
He kept going in circles, clockwise and then anticlockwise
and even tried to look back at me while pedaling.
When his parents got back from work that evening he

proudly showed them his cycling skills. Appu soon set off
on his cycling adventures with his friends. I often see them
104
trying to race or show stunts.
I can say it is a proud moment for me when I see Appu on

his bicycle, balanced and confident. The thrill on his face is
ample gratification for all my efforts.
Part 3

However in the past I believe, there was a closer sense of
community and willingness to reach out to others.
Yes definitely. I think being caring and helpful are vital qual-
ities that should be instilled in children. It can be done by
setting good examples for them to copy. Parents should
exhibit a culture of selflessness and compassion in their
words and deeds.

I would say doctors, nurses, teachers, those involved with
emergency services all help people in need.

There are people who are very service minded. This may
be because they are compassionate and selfless by na-
ture. They always put others’ interests before their own and
105
24 Describe something that surprised you

Say what it was
How you found out about it
What you did
And explain whether it made you happy
Sample Answer Furball - pet animal
Taken aback - surprised

My mother sprang a surprise on me on my birthday in the
form of an adorable kitten with a fancy red bow around her Speechless - surprised
neck.
Lobbied - tried to
I had been asking my parents for a pet cat for years. But influence
they were always uncomfortable with the idea of keeping a Try every trick in the
pet and kept brushing aside my requests. My mother used book - try everything
to lecture us about what a huge responsibility it was and
the health issues it could cause. Budge - change an
opinion
So when my mother handed me this cute furball on my Turnaround - a complete
birthday, I was taken aback.I was totally speechless to see change
this adorable kitten.
Perched - sat
My sister and I had begged, lobbied and tried every trick
Irresistible -
in the book to get our mother to agree to bring home a cat. uncontrollable
But she would not budge an inch. So we couldn’t believe
our mother had made this complete turnaround.
I named my kitten Maxie. She has the softest, fluffiest fur

and the roundest green eyes. She is so cute.
She has become a part of our home now. It’s funny to see
how she lies on her back with her legs perched up in the
air.
A few months after Maxie became part of our home, I was

in for another surprise. My mother turned from being a cat
hater to a cat lover. Maxie had won her over.
Now she sneaks into her lap when she is watching

television or reading a newspaper and my mother strokes
and cuddles her. Sometimes I find Maxie fast asleep on my
mother’s bed.
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She also likes to play,stretch and jump on the kitchen

shelves and play hide and seek among the jars when my
mother is in the kitchen. My mother also fell for Maxie’s irre-
sistible charms.
Part 3
1 What are some of the things that make you happy?
I find joy and fulfilment in simple things that I experience

every day. Hanging out with friends, reading a book or lis-
tening to soulful music are some of the simple pleasures I
enjoy. Time spent with family is also a source of great joy for
me. Nature walks, watching the sunset or waves crashing
on the shore are yet another source of delight.
2 How would you define happiness?

I think there is no one- size- fits- all definition since every
individual perceives it as per his own psychological condi-
tioning. I think what brings joy to one may be just an ordi-
nary and mundane experience for another. For example,
while a person with an artistic temperament may enthuse
over a glorious sunset , a practical minded person would be
untouched by it.
3 Do you think artistic activities can make a person happy?

I believe creating some kind of art or enjoying someone
else’s artistic work can make people happier. Art is a cre-
ative activity and involves new ideas and imagination. It is
a form of self expression and helps in giving vent to our
feelings and emotions.Further, creating art offers a feeling
of accomplishment and boosts self esteem. So art can be
very therapeutic, relaxing and pleasurable.
4 Do you think talented people are happier than others?

I believe talented people would have greater levels of hap-
piness. Their talents in different fields such as music, dance
or sports help them perform well and thus gives a sense of
achievement and self fulfilment. Also pursuing talents is a
pleasurable pastime, which would help people unwind and
forget about their stresses.
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25 Describe a person you only met once and

want to know more about
Say who he is
When you met him
Why you want to know more about him
And explain how you feel about him
Sample Answer
Septuagenarian : a
person in his seventies
Often in a lifetime, our lives are blessed with the presence
of people who can touch our hearts, illumine our mind and Verbatim: word to word
inspire the hero in us In my life, one such person is a
septuagenarian, Mr Wilson John. He is a professor of Forte: strength
Literature in a college in my city and a motivational speaker. Intrinsic: basic
Once I got a chance to attend his book launch function. At Charisma:

the event, he delivered an excellent speech which I almost attractive personality
remember verbatim.
His forte and passion is to inspire and motivate the young

to dream big. Mr. John is a firm believer in the intrinsic
value, worth and giftings of each individual.
So all his efforts both in his role as college lecturer and

motivational speaker, are directed towards equipping
people to lead fulfilling lives, stepping beyond their
limitations. He says his goal is to bridge the gaps between
where people are and where they wish to be.
His speech that day lasted about 45 minutes and it infused

a new energy and passion into me. I realized I had no clear
goals in life and was just frittering away my life . Suddenly
I wanted to dream big, set goals, unleash my potential and
be a person of influence.
I was impressed by Mr John’s combination of charisma,

personality and intellect. Even though he is in his seventies,
his passion and energy would put a youngster to shame. I
wish to know more about his life and his achievements.
I believe that one can share only what one has

experienced. And I would like to know more about his life
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and struggles as well as, how he overcame them.

Emulate: copy
I admire his warmth and sincere wish to help others. which
are rare qualities in this self centered world we live in. I am
truly privileged to have a person to look up to, to learn from
and whose values and actionsI would like to emulate.
Part 3
1 What is the influence of social media on friendships?

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Whatsapp etc
have helped friendships transcend distances, time zones
and physical circumstances. Today we have opportunities to
develop and nurture friendships that would have been al-
most impossible before.
2 How do people make friends in India?

I believe most people love to meet new people and the
internet can be one of the best ways to start friendships.
People meet on online forums and social media and find
people with similar interests and thus bond with them easily.
People also make friends at workplaces, neighborhoods or
while travelling.
3 Is it important to have the same hobbies and interests

when making friends?
I believe similar interests, tastes and hobbies are the back-
bone of great friendships. Friends can spend time doing
things that interest both of them and talking about common
areas of interests. However, If interests are different, friend-
ships are not likely to last long.
4 What qualities make true friends?

I believe true friends are trustworthy and reliable. They ac-
cept us with all our shortcomings and flaws. They are fierce-
ly loyal to us and stick with us through thick and thin.
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26 Describe an ambition that you haven’t

achieved
Say what it is
Why you haven’t achieved it
What you did about it
Sample Answer Nursed an ambition: to

have an ambition for a
I have always nursed a secret ambition right from my long time
school days. It is to write a detective novel. I am an avid
reader of detective novels and I believe there are very few Avid: keen
things than can outmatch the thrill of a murder mystery.
Outmatch: be
Whether it is a book, a movie or a web series, I always love superior to
these enthralling complicated whodunnits and I think in
the midst of enjoying them, I developed the desire to write Enthralling : highly
one myself. interesting
Although I have not started taking any serious steps, I Whodunnits: murder
always make it a point to carefully note the components of mystery
every murder mystery.
Beacons: Guiding lights
I know writing one would require very careful planning of
the plot or even many subplots within the main story, the
clues, the criminals and the motives. I will have to plan the
sequence of the story and decide what clues should be
planted so that the detectives will find them.
The vocabulary and detailing should be such that it brings

alive the twisted plots and keeps readers in suspense.
I have never written any literary piece in my life, so I know I

will have to research and study about how to do it. With my
present job and responsibilities I will not be able to spend
much time on it.
However, I have it on the back of my mind and I try to take

small steps towards it, whenever I can, and I know I will
fulfil it one day.
There are an overwhelming amount of resources on the
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internet to guide me through the process and of course my Beacons: Guiding lights
leading lights and beacons Agatha Christie and Sherlock
Holmes to motivate me.
Part 3
1 Should parents encourage children to follow their ambi-

tions?
I think parents should support and encourage their chil-
dren to achieve their ambitions and should not rubbish their
ideas however silly they may seem. Telling them about
success stories and role models can embolden and inspire
them to chase their dreams. When children are praised and
appreciated for their effort and perseverance, they will de-
velop a healthy self esteem and see themselves as having
unlimited potential.
2 Should parents interfere in the ambitions of their children?

While advice and guidance are desirable, too much inter-
ference would prevent children from developing their own
opinions and independent thinking.
3 What is the difference between the ambitions of adults

and that of children?
Adults grapple with realities of life and tend to typically aim
for career success, making money and getting settled. Chil-
dren may have fanciful ambitions like becoming a magician
or a rock star.
4 Why are some people very ambitious in their work?

There are several people who have a fire in their belly. They
are always striving for more, setting the bar higher and are
never content with where they are. I think it could be in their
genes. Being ambitious is an inherent quality for some and
they are always on the lookout for the next goal or target. I
believe being ambitious could also be a result of a sense
of competition. The desire to do better than friends and
siblings can make people determined and ambitious about
achieving more and more.
5 Why is it that some people do not have any dreams?

This could be due to a lack of confidence or a fear of failure.
Those who have no dreams probably lack the courage to
take the risks and create their future.
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27 Describe a time when you organized a

happy event successfully
Say what the event was
How you prepared for it
Who helped you to organize it
And explain why you think it was successful
Sample Answer Resounding success:

huge success
A recent event that I organized with the help of my cousins
was the ninetieth birthday of my grandfather. It was a Roped in: brought in
resounding success.
Screenshared:sharing
With the travel restrictions imposed due to the pandemic, your screen with
there was no way of getting all of my grandparents’ eight multiple devices
children and 14 grandchildren together. While some were in
other parts of the country, others were abroad. Buddies:friends
The only solution was to have a zoom party. So I roped in

a few of my cousins and started planning. We made a list
of invitees. We decided to include my grandfather’s closest
friends, all of our uncles,aunts, cousins and a few other
relatives spread across almost the whole world.
We sent out the links to the zoom party. We instructed them

all to have a candle and matches ready to light and hold
onto the screen to have the birthday boy blow them all out
at once. We also asked everyone to have their cakes ready,
so everyone could eat together.
We decorated the room with string lights, flowers and

balloons. Once everyone had logged in I brought my
grandfather into the room. He was totally surprised as all
of the over 50 guests broke into the birthday song. He blew
the candles and cut the cake.
After the cake cutting, we had some activities. Mainly we

got everyone to sing along with my grandfather. We screen
shared karaoke videos of his favourite old Malayalam hit
songs.
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We had managed to make a virtual scrapbook compiling Buddies:friends

recorded videos of greetings from my grandfather’s old
classmates from the school and college he studied in. We
screen shared the video.
My grandfather’s eyes opened wide with wonder and

excitement as he saw all of his long forgotten buddies right
before his eyes.
After about an hour, we wound up the party. On the count of

three everyone shouted one final Happy Birthday and then
waved goodbye.
The virtual party was a huge success and everyone appre-

ciated my efforts. For me the satisfaction was to see how
much my dear grandfather enjoyed the day. We had man-
aged to make it truly special.
Part 3
1 How can parents help children to be organized?

I believe it is vital for parents to teach their children to be
more organized. They can be trained to have a fixed daily
routine. Making to-do lists and checklists can ensure that
everything gets completed on time. Giving them organizers
and boxes to keep their belongings in an orderly manner
would also lay the foundation for an organized and disci-
plined lifestyle.
2 On what occasions do people need to be organized?

People need to be organized in almost every area of their
life. Finance is an important area that needs to be orga-
nized well. In addition, living spaces need proper and sys-
tematic organization. Also,when planning events and func-
tions, every tiny detail regarding the venue, the catering, the
chairs etc need to be well planned in advance.
3 Does everything need to be well prepared?

I believe proper planning leads to proper execution. Poor
planning may cause chaos and confusion. We may be
unprepared for unexpected emergencies or happenings.
However, thinking beforehand of all possible scenarios and
being prepared can save us much stress.
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4 Do people need others’ help while organizing things?

Yes, definitely. I believe assistance from others is essential.
It is not possible to organize things especially on a large
scale on one’s own. There are people who may have better
ideas,better skills or knowhow and hence seeking their aid
is definitely sensible.
114
28 Describe something you received for free

Say what it was
Who you received it from
Where you received it
Sample Answer Freebies: free gifts
I think there is no one who wouldn’t like to get a free gift. Giveaways: free gifts
Freebies and giveaways are irresistible for people. I too
was pleasantly surprised when I got a lovely glass bowl as Irresistible: cannot be
a free gift at a supermarket nearby. resisted
The bowl was a freebie being offered for purchases of over Bespoke:custom made
Rs 2000. The bowl had a bespoke design and looked
elegant as well as contemporary. It was a multi purpose Contemporary:
bowl which could serve as a dining table decor, a vase or modern
a potpourri bowl.
Potpourri bowl: bowl
The next time I had guests, I placed some floating candles with dried petals
in the bowl, which instantly spruced up the aesthetics of and leaves to give a
my living room and earned me plenty of compliments. pleasant smell
The story however does not end with me feeling excited Spruced up:
with this new home decor accessory. I wanted one more of decorated
this item, so I could set them as a pair. I tried searching for
a similar bowl on several online stores, but couldn’t find one Underlying:
exactly similar to the one I had. fundamental
Left with no other option, I headed back to the supermarket, Manipulative : clever
where the free gift offer was still on. This time I did not need
to purchase items worth Rs 2000, but since that was the Woo: attract
only way I would be entitled to receive the gift, I ended up
buying a cartful of unnecessary items. Naive: lacking
experience or wisdom
As I headed back home, happy to have got my second free
gift, I had an underlying feeling of guilt for having spent so
much.
I realized I had fallen prey to the clever manipulative

strategies employed by supermarkets to woo naive
consumers like me into over spending. I learnt my lesson to
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be more wary of free gifts. But I have to admit that my two

glass bowls look stunning, sitting side by side.
Part 3
1 Do you think people should pay for higher education?

I believe higher education must have a reasonable fee.
However there should be scholarships for meritorious stu-
dents who cannot afford the costs, so that they too can gain
college education. Interest free loans can also be provided
to ensure that everyone can avail themselves of tertiary
education, regardless of their financial status.
2 Is it good or bad for people to have free education in the

future?
I think the idea of free education is not a sensible one. Any-
thing that people get freely tends to be valued too lightly. As
a result, the quality of education may decline and students
may tend to lack seriousness regarding education. Free
education can be given only in exceptional cases where
students are too financially backward to afford it.
3 What free gifts do companies usually give to their

customers?
Companies offer a host of giveaways to attract and lure cus-
tomers. Complimentary giveaways may include gift vouch-
ers, small items like pens, key chains, chocolates or even
grocery.
4 Why do customers like to receive free gifts from compa-

nies?
Customers always need to pay for the smallest of purchas-
es and money matters to everyone. So naturally when they
get things totally free of cost, it is definitely exciting and it is
likely that they would develop a positive attitude and trust
towards the company.
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29 Describe a famous person you are

interested in
Say who he is
How you know him
What sort of life they had before they became famous
How this person became famous
And explain why you like this person
Sample Answer Penchant: a strong

liking
The world is filled with people who fascinate us with their
lives and tales and for me one such person is Robert Versatile: good at
Downey Jr. many things
He is an American actor and producer, who rose to the Sass: boldness

heights of fame and is today one of the biggest and most
beloved stars in the world through his portrayal of Tony Incarcerated: put in
Stark in Iron man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. prison
I, myself, began to have a strong penchant towards him Bleak: gloomy,

ever since I saw the first Iron man movie . Since then I have disappointing
become a huge fan of his.
He is an amazing and versatile actor. I am awestruck by

his charm, sass and naturality. I feel he is one of the key
reasons why Marvel studio movies have been so
successful, especially the Avengers Endgame, which
broke records in almost all countries.
Although RDJ , as he is commonly called, is hugely

successful today, what people don’t know about him is his
struggles with drug addiction.Way back in the 1990’s he got
into a lot of trouble.
He was even incarcerated and this brought his career to a

standstill. He lost big budget projects under prominent
banners.
However he overcame his addiction and even managed to

get a few minor roles in movies and finally in 2008, he got a
lead role in Iron man and from there it was blockbuster after
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blockbuster. Bleak: gloomy,

disappointing
So what I love about RDJ is not just his talent and charisma
but his ability to rise from the ashes.He did not quit when
things looked bleak.
He was able to get back on his feet and get his life and
career on track. His life journey teaches me that no matter
what adversities you face, it is never too late to turn your life
around and become the best possible version of yourself.
I cannot help but feel an immense sense of admiration and

respect for this amazing actor.
Part 3
1 How do people become famous?

In my country, people earn fame due to their talent in sing-
ing, dancing, acting or playing some kind of sport. Others
may become famous for some things they did in a particu-
lar situation. Social media allows news tidbits to travel fast,
due to which people can achieve a certain amount of fame
for their achievements both big and small.
2 What type of people are famous in your country?

Politicians and leading businessmen, educationalists are
people who tend to be in the limelight very often. Celebrities
like film stars, sports persons or other such top achievers in
their respective fields also enjoy a certain amount of fame.
Another recent group of famous people is the influencers
who gain millions of views and a large following on social
media and thus become famous.
3 Is there any difference between famous people now and

famous people in the past?
I think in the past, famous people like writers, actors or
politicians achieved fame due to their abilities, hard work
and talents. However people today seem to become famous
overnight for trivial matters mainly through the power of the
media.
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4 What qualities do famous people have in common?

Famous people have certain common attributes. They are
goal oriented and hard working. They have worked their
way through setbacks and challenges through their grit and
resilience. They are willing to take risks in life and set high
standards for themselves.
5 What is your opinion about nepotism among famous peo-

ple?
I think nepotism is totally wrong and unethical. Favoritism
towards family members and acquaintances is an abuse
of power and is unfair because it disregards true merit and
talent. This can affect the morale of other more deserving
people and lead to mediocrity.
119
30 Describe a resolution you made in the

new year
Say what it was
How you plan to stick to it
Why you made this resolution
Sample Answer Clean slate: a fresh

start
I have always been very excited about making new year
resolutions. But they are much easier to make than to keep Turn a new page: a
and quite often by March, I abandon my resolve and settle fresh beginning
back into my old habits.
Taken aback:
However this never discourages me from making surprised
resolutions each year. I believe every year is a clean slate
with opportunities to make changes, improve ourselves and Surpassing:
turn a new page. exceeding
This time my new year resolution was to give one

compliment a day. I believe this is a far easier goal than the
more physically demanding ones like reducing weight,
waking up early or daily exercises.
I made this resolution since I feel complimenting people

spreads positivity around. I realized that I was becoming so
focussed on myself that I had no time or interest in
appreciating good things I saw in people around me.
I started with complimenting my mother for the cup of tea

she brought me. She was taken aback by that unexpected
appreciation. That same day I passed on at least ten
compliments far surpassing my mandatory number of
compliments.
As I continued, I realized that there was so much to

appreciate and compliment and I had been quite blind and
self centered not to even have noticed them.
My colleague had the most charming smile, the security

guard at the gate had a remarkably thick moustache, my
next door neighbour had a beautiful garden and the list
went on. As the days pass, it has become very easy to spot
120
positive traits in people. Affirmations: positive

I have also realized that giving a compliment can be a good declarations
conversation starter or a good way to get over a bump in a
conversation. Follow through:
continue an action to
Also, being generous with affirmations benefits the giver its conclusion
too. It makes us optimistic and creates a happier outlook.
They cost nothing and can change lives for good. It has
been two months now and I am still going strong.
I do hope that this time I will finally follow through over the
whole year.
Part 3
1 What kind of decisions do people take everyday?

People make small and big life changing decisions in their
day to day life. The decisions may be on trivial matters like
what to eat, which movie to watch, how to spend their time
etc. Or it could be on weightier matters like career choice,
deciding on whom to marry, how to invest money, relocating
to another country etc.
2 Can children make their own decisions?

Yes children can be encouraged to take decisions in small
matters like what dress to wear, what game to play, which
toy to buy etc. Decision making is one of the most important
skills children need to develop to become healthy and ma-
ture adults.
3 Why do people change their decisions sometimes?

People may change decisions when they realize it was not
the right decision. Sometimes decisions are taken hastily,
without proper thinking or we may be unsure of our deci-
sion. Sometimes other people may influence us to rethink.
4 Why do people need to make decisions?

Decision making is inevitable in our life and almost every
second we are forced to make choices from the options
before us both big and small.
121
31 Describe an interesting song

Say what the song is
What the song is about
Whether the song is popular
And explain why you think it is interesting
Sample Answer Span: cover
I am a music lover and my interests span a range of Genres: styles or

genres from hip hop and rap to slow melodies. I think there categories
is so much emerging talent we get to see on social media
today, that we can enjoy amazing music all the time. Turn up their
noses at: be scornful
One song that I find very fascinating is the ‘Pawri ho rahi about
hai’ meme song. Conventional music composers and
lyricists would probably turn up their noses at this song. It Garnered: gathered
was composed by the upcoming music composer Yashraj
Mukhate. Hilarious: very funny
It was released last year and garnered over 70 million Groove: dancing
views and continues to be a popular number among
millions of netizens. I can say that it’s a song which has Quirky: strange
almost the entire nation tapping its feet .It would be more
apt to call it a dialogue with beats rather than a song. Blends: combines
Yashraj Mukhate has a very unique style of creating music. Vibing: enjoy by
He takes dialogues from reality shows, Tv shows or videos listening to music or
and adds a musical twist to it. The end result is hilarious. dancing
It makes you laugh and groove at the same time. All of his
meme songs went viral on Instagram garnering millions of
views.
I first noticed his talent two years back when he released

his first rap song which was a remix of a scene from a
popular Hindi soap opera. I think that song made him an
overnight Youtube sensation.
In the ‘Pawri ho rahi hai’ song he takes a video by Pakistani

influencer Dananeer Mobeen called ‘Pawri ho rahi hai’ -
meaning a party is going on.
She deliberately says the word party with an accent, which

122
adds to the charm of the song. It is amazing how Yashraj Quirky: strange
takes this simple dialogue and turns it into something
quirky and fun.He makes a beat according to the dialogue Blends: combines
and a pitch and tempo that blends with it and plays it on a
loop. Vibing: enjoy by
listening to music or
The ‘pawri ho rahi hai’ mashup has become a hit across all dancing
sections of society. Actors, politicians, sportspersons and
celebrities can be seen vibing with this song.
It has become a hot favourite during wedding parties and

other gatherings. The best part is that this song is some-
thing people in India and Pakistan can enjoy together.
Part 3
1 Why are many music competitions popular in India?

I believe there is an abundance of musical talent in India
and these competitions offer a platform for showcasing and
nurturing it.There are many participants who went on to
become famous singers in the film industry or on social me-
dia. A second reason is that such shows on television are
hugely popular and have high TRP ratings. Almost every-
one enjoys music and spending time watching music based
reality shows can be very relaxing and entertaining.
2 What kinds of music do young people like?

I think young people are mostly fond of hip hop and rap.
More and more new artists are emerging with their own
unique styles and are skyrocketing to stardom. Artists like
Eminem, Justin Beiber and Taylor Swift are also hot favor-
ites. Closer home we have Punjabi music with popular art-
ists like Badshah and Diljit Dosanjh.
3 What kind of people like traditional music?

I think traditional music appeals more to the older gener-
ation. The young crowd is more inclined towards western
forms of music, creative fusion of east and west as well as
remixes.
4 What are the differences between a live concert and an

online concert?
Enjoying live musical shows is an exhilarating experience
123
.The energy, the loud music, the cheering crowds and the
atmosphere gives an exciting and euphoric experience.
On the other hand, online concerts would lack the energy
and vibrance of a live concert, but would help people enjoy
the music without distractions and disturbance from rau-
cous members of the crowd.
5 Do teenagers and old people enjoy the same kind of

songs?
Definitely not. While the aged are inclined more towards
haunting, soulful melodies of the yester years, youngsters
are open to new genres especially western music such as
pop, rock, reggae and fusion music.
6 What are the factors that make a song popular?

While some songs sound insipid and dull, others stick in
people’s heads and go on to be chart busters. They usually
have some features like a catchy tune, good rhythm and
tempo as well as appealing lyrics.
7 On what occasions do people in your country sing togeth-

er?
Songs are an inseparable part of functions such as wed-
dings, pre wedding ceremonies as well as parties. There
are also specific songs people sing together during festi-
vals and other religious ceremonies.
8 What kind of songs are suitable for children?Why?

I think songs that are easy to sing and have a fast rhythm
are the songs that children would prefer.
9 Why do musical tastes vary with age?

Musical choices do undergo changes with age. I think ad-
olescence is the age for intense and aggressive kinds of
music such as pop or heavy metal.As people grow more
mature, I think, there is a greater inclination towards more
124
32 Describe a thing you cannot live

without (other than your phone or computer)
Say what it is
How long you have had it
Why you cannot live without it
Sample Answer Relegated: transferred
A thing that is an absolute essential for me is my wrist Penchant: liking

watch. Today, of course, we have the time on our phones
and watches seem to have been relegated to the Reconcile to: accept
background. But I still have a penchant for watches.
Analog: watches with
I believe a strong reason why I wear it is due to habit. traditional watch face
Having worn a watch for so many years, I think I find it hard
to reconcile myself with the idea of discarding it. Fishing for: trying to
find out
I started wearing a watch in my tenth standard. My first
watch was a gift from my father. It was an HMT watch with
a gold square dial and black leather strap. I wore it proudly
to school and almost everywhere I went.
I have had a few more watches since then. In college I

bought my first digital watch, but it did not appeal to me
much and I stuck to analog ones after that.
Many people ask me why I wear a watch when I can tell

the time from my mobile. But I think getting the time from
my watch is so much more effortless than fishing for my
phone in my bag and pulling it out . There are so many
places where it’s even impossible to do that, like in a
crowded bus or in a meeting.
Also you whip out your phone to look at the time, but you
get distracted by the notifications and end up spending
more time on your phone than you intend to.
Another thing that makes watches irresistible for me is

that they are a great accessory to wear. The straps both
leather and shiny metal, look quite eye-catching. I think
they enhance my appearance and I can match them with
125
my outfit.They work very well as style statements. So I can

say that my watch is my favorite, most used and must have
accessory.
Part 3
1Why are people attracted to new things?

People have a tendency to purchase the latest trend and
styles. One reason could be that they become bored with
old things and want to try out something different. Also
checking out new things in malls or online stores.has be-
come a common mode of entertainment , I also feel the
desire to buy new stuff could also stem from a desire to to
impress others,
2 Why do some grown ups hate to discard old things?

I believe the older generations lead frugal lives and try to
avoid throwing away things. They try to minimize wastage
and look for ways to repurpose things rather than throwing
them away.
3 In what ways have people’s buying habits changed?

I think the most significant shift is that shopping has evolved
from being a need based activity, to something people do
for fun and relaxation. It is very common for people today
to go shopping just for pleasure and purchase things on an
impulse. In other words, the levels of consumption today are
far higher than in the days of our thrifty older generations.
Also the trend of online shopping is picking up at a furious
pace, with perks such as convenience, discounts, fast ship-
ping and wider options.
4 What influences people to buy new things?

I think one reason why people end up making unplanned
impulsive purchases is what they see on social media. Life-
styles, fashions, outfits of others can push us into buying
similar stuff. Advertisements also play a key role in shaping
people’s desires and pushing consumption.
126
33 Describe something that was broken in

your home and then repaired
Say what it was
How it was broken
How you got it repaired
Sample Answer
Scurried: move in a
This happened just a few months back. I was playing with hurry
my pet Peppy and as he scurried around the house , he
bumped into a vase. Wobbled: move
unsteadily from side
I watched in horror as my mother’s favorite whilte and blue to side
ceramic flower vase wobbled and then crashed to the floor.
A small portion of the vase was chipped at the top and Chipped: a small por-
there was a long crack on one side. tion broken off the
edge
My heart sank. The vase was my mother’s treasured
possession, a gift from her dear friend and colleague. Heart sank: became
Although I was feeling guilty and horrified, I started disappointed
thinking of ways to reverse the damage.
Sneak: go secretly
I carefully picked up the vase and the broken pieces and
sneaked into my room. Dressing down:
scolding
Thankfully I was alone in the house and was saved from a
dressing down from anyone. I took the broken piece, Undetectable : cannot
applied a layer of super glue on it and gently pressed it onto be easily seen
the vase till the bond was secure.I also applied the glue
inside the entire length of the crack and then lightly brushed Ornate: with elaborate
some white and blue paint over the crack. decorations
Once the glue was set and the paint dried, I realized that Keepsake: something
the repair was almost undetectable. The ornate keepsake kept in memory of the
was restored back to its original form. I heaved a sigh of person who gave it
relief .
My Superglue was truly a lifesaver that day as on numerous

occasions before. It’s happened so often that a coffee mug
slipped from my grasp or the buckle of my sandal came off.
Super glue is a fast bonding, easy to use and instant

adhesive that never fails to come to the rescue. Its
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versatility makes it a must have staple for me. I can say it Versatility : having
helps me repair, reuse and recycle which are the mantras many uses
for eco friendly living
Part 3
1 Is the quality of products worse than it was before?

Yes I think products today are manufactured with a poorer
quality and a shorter shelf life. Durability and quality do not
ensure profits. So I think it is a shrewd marketing strategy
to make products of inferior quality so that people need to
discard the old and keep buying new things.
2 What kinds of things do people like to repair by them-

selves?
People like to repair objects of daily use such as sandals,
cups, crockery and so on which can be fixed easily. Usually
they can be repaired with some glue or tape. Torn clothes
can be repaired with a sewing machine or a needle and
thread. There are also electrical appliances, which can be
repaired.
4 Why do people like to get their mobile phones repaired

from specialized service centres?
One reason is that if the phone is within the warranty peri-
od, repairs are done freely by authorized service centres.
Also these centres are subsidiaries of mobile manufactur-
ers and so parts would be 100% original, whereas local
shops may use duplicate parts for our smartphones.
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34 Describe a toy you liked in childhood
Say what it was

How it was broken
How you got it repaired
Sample Answer Captivate : attract and

hold the interest and
I had quite a big collection of toys when I was growing up. attention of
And one that I prized the most was a toy train.
Vivid: producing
It was gifted to me by my uncle. He lived abroad and every powerful feelings or
year when he came for holiday he would visit us and take strong, clear images
me and my brother to the nearby toy store and ask us to in the mind
pick whatever we wanted.
Pang: a sudden sharp
Going toy shopping with my uncle is one of my happiest pain or painful
childhood memories. emotion
I remember the shelves of the big toy shop lined with such Nostalgia: a feeling
a wide variety of toys like remote control cars, buses, dolls, of pleasure and also
superhero figures, teddy bears etc. It was during one such slight sadness when
trip that I picked up this toy train set. you think about things
that happened in the
If my memory serves me correctly, I was about eight years past
old. I felt so captivated by the picture of the train on the
box. I didn’t see the train because it had to be assembled.
As soon as we got back home my uncle opened the box

and took out all the pieces, there were many pieces of
tracks, some were curved, some straight. They could be
interconnected. The engine, the passenger carriages and
the goods carriages were also separate pieces and we
could join them with hooks.
The train was battery operated and once I had assembled

everything, it was thrilling to see the train running on the
tracks.
My train became my favourite play item and I vividly

remember the fun time I had playing with it. Often my
neighbourhood friends would join me, sometimes we would
make the train pass through mountain tunnels made of
129
mud. All my action heroes would be railway guards waving

the green or red flag.
So my toy train offered me such a variety of fun

possibilities, I still have a few pieces of that train in my
cupboard and whenever I see it, I feel that pang of
nostalgia.
Part 3
1 What kind of toys are suitable for different age groups.

Each age category has its own type of toys. For infants,
bright colourful rattles, squeeze toys, musical toys, teething
toys would be ideal. For toddlers and older children, the
best toys would be vehicles, plastic animals, stuffed toys,
kitchen sets, dolls, modelling clay, picture books and build-
ing blocks
2 How are toys beneficial for children

Toys are fun and an endless source of enjoyment. They
also help children improve fine and gross motor skills. Addi-
tionally toys boost creativity and imagination and stimulate
concentration.
3 What are the differences between toys that girls like and
the preference of boys?
We can see a gender stereotype in toys. Boys are more
predisposed to toys like cars, guns, superhero figures and
robots, while girls prefer to play with dolls, kitchen sets or
colouring books.
4 Does technology have an influence on toys?

Technology has pervaded the realm of toys too. With sen-
sors, chips, remote operated toys etc, they have become
more advanced and allow greater interaction with children.
Gone are the days of crude and simple toys made of plastic
or wood. Artificial intelligence and virtual reality will usher in
much more sophistication in future toys.
5 Parents don’t spend much time with their children and

instead give toys. Is it good enough?
Children love to have new toys but the most important thing
for them is the presence of their parents. When parents give
130
their children time and attention, it builds a sense of

security, confidence and self esteem in the child.
131
35 Describe a long walk you had

Where you walked
Who were with you
And explain how you felt about this walk
Sample Answer Extolled: praised
Walking is something that is extolled by one and all for the Shirked: avoided
huge health benefits it gives. However I was a person who
totally shirked the idea of walking and preferred to drive Inside out: thoroughly
even short distances.
Itinerary: planned
However, a few years back, I trekked nearly 6 kms while on route
a trip to Nainital and I can say the experience was so
memorable that it helped me overcome my stubborn Cringe: to shrink back
resistance to walking.
Elapsed: passed
I had gone there with my family and our tour guide was
Swati, my friend who hails from Nainital. Knowing the place Taken aback:
inside out, Swati helped organize, manage and plan the surprised
whole journey so that we could enjoy it to the fullest.
Every stop in our itinerary was unlimited fun.
However one day we were heading to the next destination

and midway I got a blow when we were asked to park our
vehicles and walk. I cringed at the thought of walking. But
on this trip, I didn’t want to miss out on anything so I set
out. It was an uphill climb along a narrow path dotted with
boulders and passed through a forest full of eucalyptus and
cypress trees .
Enjoying the scenic views, the cool mountain air, chirping of

birds and the tranquil atmosphere, I didn’t realize that three
hours had elapsed since we started walking. I was taken
aback when the guide told us that we had covered 6 kms.
I just couldn’t believe I had walked that long.
Of course we had taken short breaks in between to click

some Instagram worthy pictures and enjoy hot ginger tea.
However I can say that I was so captivated by the
picturesque surroundings that it gave me tremendous zest
to walk without fretting or even experiencing any kind of
132
fatigue. Once we reached the top we were awestruck by Awestruck: amazed

the stunning and panoramic view of the city and the
surrounding majestic mountains of Kumaon region.
The long trek was definitely worth it and I felt a sense of

achievement , not just for the out of this world experience,
but also because I had managed to overcome my aversion
to walking and I am ready to get on my feet more often.
Part 3
1 What outdoor activities do people like?

From walking, trekking, swimming to adventure sports such
as river rafting, surfing, kayaking and sailing , there are a
host of outdoor activities that people are interested in. I be-
lieve the interest in such activities is rising as people want
a break from their dreary daily routines and wish to experi-
ence some adventure and fun.
2 What is the difference between indoor and outdoor

sports?
Indoor sports such as chess or carroms are played inside
the house and involve very little physical exertion. On the
other hand, outdoor sports like cricket, football, badminton
etc involve a lot of physical movements such as running,
jumping and leaping. Also outdoor activities bring people
closer to nature and offer greater opportunities for making
friends and building relationships
3 What are the differences between outdoor activities of

children in the past and now?
With regard to outdoor activities now, I feel the interest in
waning among children today. With new fangled entertain-
ment options such as browsing, playing mobile games,
binge watching web series on OTT platforms, the electronic
media had virtually replaced outdoor activities. In the past,
children used to spend most of their time outside running,
climbing trees, playing different sports and so on.
4 Is leisure important to everyone ? Why?

I think with the never ending demands of work and home
today, leisure has almost become a luxury. But it is essen-
tial for everyone to have adequate leisure time. Leisure
133
activities such as playing games, having chit chats, indulg-

ing in hobbies or watching movies give much needed relax-
ation to our minds and help us unwind. They are a perfect
antidote to stress and help energize our minds and bodies.
I think leisure costs us nothing but provides multiple gains.
So instead of neglecting it, we must find time for leisure to
become happier and healthier versions of ourselves.
4 Do women have more leisure time than men?

I do not think so. Most women are employed and shoulder
a lion’s share of the household and child care responsibil-
ities. I believe women end up working more than men and
hence have less time available for leisure than men.
134
36 Describe a person you follow on

social media
Say who he is
How you know him/her
What he/she posts on social media
And explain why you follow him/her
Sample Answer Staple: a common

commodity
Social media is a staple for young people like me. I spend
quite some time browsing through Facebook, Instagram Initiative: attempt
and Twitter.
Stranded: stuck
There are over 500 influencers that I follow on different
media. They include my family members, friends, sports Gets a bad rap: get a
personalities, film stars and a few other celebrities. I also bad reputation
follow a few others who post quality content, which I find
very inspiring or informative.
One such person is the actor Sonu Sood. He is a talented

actor who has acted in several films in Bollywood as well as
the South Indian film industry. About two years back I read
about an initiative he had undertaken through Facebook
and began to follow him.
He helped migrant workers in Mumbai to reach their homes

during the nationwide lockdown due to the Covid -19
pandemic.
Thousands of migrant labourers had been stranded in

urban areas with no livelihood or money to survive during
the lockdown, which forced them to go back home on foot.
Each day Sonu Sood organized buses for the workers to
travel to their respective hometowns. As part of his ‘Ghar
bhejo’ campaign, he helped over 12,000 migrants reach
home.
He launched a toll free number through which anyone could

reach out to him for help. Each day at least 45,000 people
were provided food and water.
135
During the second wave, the actor launched several Gets a bad rap: get a
helplines for people to enable them to find oxygen cylinders bad reputation
and hospital beds.
This year he has been providing medical assistance to

patients affected by Covid 19
Social media often gets a bad rap for being a distraction

but influencers like Sonu Sood show how this media can be
harnessed for good.
It is a tool to reach out to the needy,mobilize support, raise

funds as well as inspire more such initiatives.
Part 3
1 What all things can people do on social media?

I think there are billions of people who turn to social media
for various purposes. Some like to update themselves on
daily happenings and news while others seek entertain-
ment. It is also a place to find quality content and advice on
a host of topics such as lifestyle, fitness, beauty or travel.
Social media platforms like Instagram are places where
people like to socialize, meet and talk with others
2 Do you think older and younger people will use the same
kind of social media software?
No, I don’t think so. There is a hip element to social media
and the newer generation will always want to be part of the
hip and trendy platforms. We see it happening in real life
as the older generation of social media users use facebook
and we see the younger generation use instagram, though
they are quite similar.
3 Do old people spend much time on social media?

No they do not. There is a technology barrier. While some
of them have Facebook accounts and are active on social
media, the vast majority are basically not very interested
in using social media platforms. For them staying in touch
with friends means calling or visiting them and convention-
al media like television or newspapers are their choice of
resources for updating themselves.
136
4 Are non social media like television and newspapers still

useful?
I think a vast majority of the population still uses these,
mainly out of habit.
But I believe the idea of television and printed news is here
to stay, since there is a large population of people, who pre-
fer this form of media.
137
37 Describe a thing you did to learn another

language
Say what language you learned
What you did
How it helped you learn the language
Sample Answer Toyed with: thought

about
Soon after my engineering course, I got a job in a
multinational company. My first project was for a French Held no charm: did not
client. like
Although we used to communicate with the client in Nuances: small

English, I realized that being fluent in French would be an differences
added advantage, not just to ease the communication, but
to build a better rapport. Tedium: boredom
I had studied French as a third language at school and was Drabness: monotony
aware of the basics of grammar and vocabulary but lacked
fluency.
I toyed with the idea of enrolling for a course in the

language,but the idea of sitting for a class at the end of a
tiring and exhausting day held no charm for me. That’s
when I thought of the idea of watching French movies.
I could relax and at the same time pick up the nuances of

the language.
I downloaded a few good French movies. I started off with

the first movie,watching it several times, with and without
subtitles. Movies are a way of seeing how language is used
in a practical context.
I started paying careful attention to the accent and

pronunciation. I could also observe the body language and
other oral and non- verbal cues.
I would fast forward, rewind and even turn it into slow

motion or pause for a while. I continued doing this everyday
for nearly a month.
138
My confidence in the language increased significantly and

today, I am not where I used to be.
I can definitely say that watching films in another language

is an excellent learning experience , which takes away the
tedium and drabness from learning and makes it more
fun, enjoyable and effective.
Part 3
1 What difficulties do people face when learning a lan-

guage?
Learning a language presents a host of problems. Lan-
guage learners need to start with the basic alphabets, pro-
nunciation, grammar and syntax. Remembering new words
and their meanings can also be quite demanding. Also they
need to step out of their comfort zone to practice speaking,
which can be really frustrating.
2 Do you think language learning is important ? Why?

Yes, I believe proficiency in several languages can be highly
useful in today’s world where the world is more intercon-
nected than ever before. Bilingualism and multilingualism
arebecoming highly attractive features in resumes. In addi-
tion to providing an edge in the job market, knowledge of
other languages opens a window to other cultures.
3 Which is better - to study alone or in a group?

I think both have their merits. While studying alone, stu-
dents know what works best for them and they can use
techniques and plan schedules that are most effective.Also
they may be able to accomplish much more due to lesser
distractions.
On the other hand, studying collectively enables students to
develop many skills such as social skills,decision making,
communication and leadership. It also allows for new in-
sights and perspectives.
4 What is the best way to learn a language?

I think motivation and hard work are prerequisites for
language learning. Immersion can help improve listening
139
and speaking skills. This can be done by listening to pod-

casts or watching shows in the language. Learning key
phrases and vocabulary can help us make fast progress.
Also we can harness technology such as tutorials and apps
to make language learning fun and easy.
140
38 Describe a course that impressed you a lot

Say what the course was
Where you took it
What you did during the course
And explain why it impressed you a lot
Sample Answer
Age appropriate:
A course that I found highly useful and impressive is a one
suitable for the age
day course in first aid, which I did when I was in the
eleventh standard.
Abrasions: cuts
It was a free hands-on practical programme delivered by
Invaluabl e: very
Red Cross Society, for students and teachers in schools in
important
our area.
Promptly: immediately
Accidents can happen any time to any one and this course
equipped the students and teachers to step up and do the
Fretting: complaining
needful.
Commendable:
The best thing about the course was that it was given to
students right from the primary to senior school. Each age admirable
group was given age appropriate lessons.
For instance the primary school students were taught how

to recognise an emergency and call for help. The middle
school students were trained in putting the person into a
recovery position and checking for vital signs.
I was in senior school and we were given more advanced

lessons covering various emergency situations such as
cuts, abrasions, burns etc and the appropriate action to be
taken such as setting up a splint ,the right way to bandage
etc. We were also introduced to CPR and given hands-on
experience on mannequins.
I liked the way the course was structured, from simple to

more complicated steps. At every stage we were given a
thorough understanding and explanation of the techniques
and procedures, followed by practical demonstrations. We
also got ample hands on training sessions.
I think first aid skills are invaluable as they help us to

141
respond quickly to accidents and deal with them promptly Promptly: immediately
before professional help arrives.
Fretting: complaining
Once my nephew sprained his ankle and my normal
reaction would be worrying and fretting, But having Commendable:
attended the course, I confidently proceeded with the admirable
first aid.
I applied an ice pack to the injury to control the swelling

and then tied a compression elastic bandage firmly and
elevated the leg, before we sought medical help.
So I believe this course was highly commendable not just

in its utility value but also for the way it was delivered.
Part 3
1 Why do some people have a better memory?

I think some people have better memory by virtue of nature.
It could be hereditary. Others may become memory cham-
pions using proven techniques that keep their brains and
memory skills sharp.
2 Which can help people remember things better - words or

photos?
It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Images
speak louder than words. So I believe visuals can be un-
derstood and processed much faster and also retained for
much longer period than words.
3 Can technology help people remember things

better?How?
I think there are ways to stimulate brain function and re-
verse memory lapses. I am not very aware of these technol-
ogies. However, keeping reminders and marking things on
our phone calendars are ways we can get assistance from
technology in remembering important things.
142
39 Describe a special cake you received from

someone
Say when this happened

Where it happened
Who gave you the cake
And explain why it was special
Spoilt for choice:

Sample Answer
unable to choose
since there are so
With confectioners and expert home bakers offering the
many good choices
most delectable cakes for sale, people are spoilt for choice.
However, one cake I consider very special is the one baked
Quirky: strange
by my dear friend Rosanne , when we were in the tenth
standard.
Settle for: agree to
Rosanne wanted to bake a cake for my birthday. I was quite

Obstinately :
amused by this quirky desire of hers. She knew nothing
stubbornly
about baking, had never baked before and did not even
have an oven.
Resolutely: with
determination
Still she would not settle for the idea of buying a cake and
held on obstinately to the idea of baking one herself. She
Dissuade: discourage
was quite an adventurer by nature and resolutely and fear-
lessly pursued opportunities to try new things. I tried to
Stuck to her guns:
dissuade her.
refuse to change your
opinion
I was quite sure that it would be a disaster and feared the
prospect of having to eat something undercooked or burnt
Trepidation: fear
for my birthday. Rosanne stuck to her guns.She told me she
would bring the cake to school and we would cut it during
Apprehensions: fears
the recess.
To a T: exactly
The next day I went to school with some degree of trepida-
tion. I wondered if Rosanne had gone ahead with her bak-
ing plans.
Lunch break came and Rosanne came rushing to my class

with a cake box. She opened it and it was a flawless choc-
olate cake. All of my classmates gathered around the cake.
They sang the birthday song.
I cut the cake and distributed it to everyone. I took one bite

143
and all my apprehensions melted away. It was soft and

spongy and tasted perfect.
She told me that she had bought a cooker cake mix and
followed all the instructions to a T. This pressure cooker
chocolate cake remains a truly memorable and special one
till date. It was not from a seasoned baker, but a novice with
a desire to make a friend’s birthday memorable.
Part 3
1 What kind of foreign dishes are available in your country?
There are several global cuisines that are now available in

our country and are quite popular. Chinese dishes, I be-
lieve, are the most common with dishes like chow mein,
chilli chicken etc available practically everywhere. Italian
foods especially pizzas and Thai dishes have also entered
Indian markets.
2 Is it expensive to eat outside in your country?

There are a wide variety of options available in my country
for dining out. From street food stores and roadside vendors
to cafes, fast food chains and elite classy restaurants, there
are places to suit every kind of budget. I
I feel the all time favourite , however, is the street food
which is easy on the pocket and delicious too
3 Do you like to cook food at home?

Yes I love cooking at home. I am very fond of trying new
recipes, especially North Indian and Chinese. With restau-
rants and cafes closed for the most part of last year, I took
to more serious home cooking. I think, all through this peri-
od of lockdown due to the Corona pandemic, many people
turned to cooking as a hobby, sharing their favorite recipes
and pictures of the dishes they cooked on Instagram. With
so many food blogs, youtube cooking videos, it is easy and
fun and of course extremely satisfying to whip up exotic
dishes.
4 What is the difference between Indian food and Western
144
food?
I think there are huge differences between Indian and West-
ern foods. When we speak of Western food, it conjures up
images of burgers, pizzas and french fries. I believe west-
ern food mainly consists of processed foods and ingredi-
ents. On the other hand, Indian food consists of fresh and
homemade dishes, mostly vegetarian.
5 What is a healthy diet?

Well I would say a healthy diet is one that provides a bal-
ance of all the necessary nutrients such as proteins, fats,
carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Personally, I
don’t go in for strict limitations or rules but try to make sure
I include plenty of vegetables and fruits in my diet, minimize
processed and refined foods. I also drink plenty of water
and keep away from sugary drinks.
6 Why do some people choose to be vegetarians?

I feel the trend of veganism is on the increase and this
could be due to multiple reasons. For some, the reasons
are ethical. They oppose animal exploitation and find facto-
ry farming cruel and inhumane Others choose a vegan diet
for health reasons or because of their religious convictions.
7 Is the food that people eat today in your country different

from the food that people used to eat in the past?
I think food has evolved a lot from the past, when people
only ate traditional foods, made of locally available produce.
Today people have wider choices from a range of different
cuisines. Western foods such as pizzas, burgers and fries,
the Chineses noodles and Italian pasta are all household
names today. Takeaways, ready to eat meals, convenience
foods and microwave meals have become the norm today
,as they fit perfectly into people’s hectic and frenzied sched-
ules.
8 What can you say about the food habits of people in the
future?
I think in the future people will switch to healthier food
options such as organic foods and nutrient-based foods
rather than processed, fried and calorie rich ones. Super-
foods such as avocado, kiwis, quinoa and green tea are
now readily available in India. So I believe the trend towards
healthy eating will pick up in the coming years.
145
40 Describe an interesting conversation you

had with a friend
Say who the friend was

Where you were
What the conversation was about
And explain why you think it was interesting
Catch up with: to talk

Sample Answer
to someone whom
you have not seen for
A few months back I bumped into an old school friend at a
some time to find out
supermarket. Having met after ages, we decided to catch
what they have been
up with each other over a cup of coffee.
doing
We reminisced about our classmates, our school, our
Weird: strange
teachers, the pranks we played, the classes we bunked, the
drama rehearsals and of course Anjana’s struggle with En-
Rules are bent: rules
glish.She always got into trouble with our English teacher.
are not followed
Either it was wrong spellings or incorrect grammar.
In splits: laughing
Anjana still had not got over her confusion with the rules of
loudly
the English language. I had always managed to get decent
scores in English, and tried to explain that they were not
Conclusive: without
that confusing.
any doubts
However, she told me she could prove that English is a
My mind harks back to :
funny and weird language. She then began to give me ex-
remember
amples to prove her point.
something
She told me that when the stars are out they become vis-
ible, but when the lights are out they are invisible. When
she wound up her watch, she started it, but when she
wound up her story, she ended it.
She went on to show me how grammar rules are bent in so

many instances. The plural of box is boxes, while the plural
of ox is oxen.
C-u-t is pronounced cut and ‘b-u-t is pronounced but,

whereas p-u-t has a different pronunciation.If the plural of
man is men, shouldn’t the plural of pan be pen?
I was in splits over these examples and had to admit to

146
these peculiarities. I added a few instances such as the fact

that a guinea pig is neither a guinea nor a pig. There is no
egg in eggplant.
Anjana next moved on to weird pronunciations. She point-

ed out that the pronunciation of words like debt, doubt or
receipt or queue had no connection with the way they were
spelt.
By the end of the conversation, we had gathered conclusive

evidence to prove that in spite of being the most widely
spoken language in the world, English has its comical and
crazy aspects.
Even today as I prepare to take the IELTS exam and come

across an illogical grammar rule, my mind harks back to
the fun conversation I had with Anjana.
Part 3
1 What topics do young people in India talk about?

Young people today are exposed to global culture and they
often talk of Hollywood movies, music, celebrities, and
sports. They also like to talk about education and job oppor-
tunities abroad, their goals and future plans. There are also
some young people who are interested in politics and social
issues.
2 What is the difference between the topics that are popular

now and the popular topics in the past?
I believe in the past, topics were mostly limited to local or
national matters. In the pre internet era, people had limited
access to global events and happenings. Also there was
more interest in matters concerning the community at large
than personal affairs.
3 How do you know if others are not interested in the con-

versation?
There are many ways to know if others are not connecting
with us in a conversation. Body language is one important
cue. People crossing their arms while speaking or looking
elsewhere is a sign of disinterest. Also they may not con-
tribute much to the conversation or ask questions and their
responses may be perfunctory.
147
4 What is the influence of modern technology such as the

internet and emails on our communication?
The rise of the internet and social media use has dramat-
ically changed the way people communicate and main-
tain friendships. Now people can use email, social media,
chat messengers, video conferencing, video calls, images,
videos, symbols, diagrams, charts, and emoticons, etc.
for communication. Geographical distances have been
eliminated and it is possible for us to maintain friendships
across countries. Modern technology also allows 24*7
connectivity . However high internet use may lead to lack of
social skills and increase feelings of loneliness, and deprive
us of real and more intimate face to face communication.
5 Do you think women are more talkative than men?

I don’t think so. It depends on the individual rather than the
gender. While some are more loquacious, others are re-
served. I don’t think it has anything to do with one’s gender.
6 Are conversation topics of men and women different?

I think women are more interested in talking about personal
topics and building relationships. Men on the other hand
stay away from personal matters and choose topics like
current affairs, their business, sports and so on.
7 What is the difference between chatting and gossiping?

I think chatting is just light informal talk between friends or
family. Gossip, however, is idle ‘alk about others. It is be-
hind-the-back conversation mainly intended to spread neg-
ativity. It can be mean and malicious.
148
41 Describe a place in a village you visited

Say which place it was
When you visited it
What you did there
And explain how you feel about this place
Sample Answer
Bedlam: confusion
Cities are a bedlam of annoying sounds - the honking of
Getaway : holiday
cars, the high decibel construction noises, the shouts of
destination
street vendors, cars and buses whooshing past, the wail of
sirens or music playing from a window.
Clamour: loud
confused noise
So a visit to the countryside was a pleasant change for
me. It was a quiet and secluded getaway, far from all the
Soundtrack: sounds
clamour, where I could just relax and unwind.
Nook: corner
I got a chance to visit this place last year. It is my friend
Swati’s ancestral village called Manimala and during one
of her visits there, she invited me to accompany her. It was
a five hour drive from the place we live in and we reached
there by noon.
Swati’s uncle stayed there in their huge elegant ancestral

house. We enjoyed their gracious hospitality and the lip
smacking lunch they had prepared for us.
After a little rest we spent the evening strolling through

trees, the farms and the plantations. Swati’s uncle had a
huge farm where he grew vegetables such as pumpkin,
okra, carrot and leafy greens.
I was also impressed by the mushroom and ornamental

flower farm. I was quite impressed to know that he synthe-
sized his own organic compost and manure and also made
organic pesticides with neem leaves.
There was a small stream, with clear sparkling water,

flowing close to the house and we had some delightful time
frolicking in the stream
We spent the rest of the evening just sitting and chatting in

149
the open pillared verandah soaking in the peace and seren-

ity.
Of course there was the beautiful soundtrack scored by the

numerous birds around us and the sound of the wind blow-
ing through the trees, all of which were soothing and pleas-
ant to our ears. After spending the night there, we headed
back home early in the morning.
Visiting this picturesque place was a welcome break for me

from my mundane daily routine and I was greatly blessed to
experience this tranquil nook.
Part 3
1 Why is it hard to find quiet places in cities?

Cities are congested places, full of hustle and bustle.
Sounds from road, rail and air traffic, construction, factories,
televisions blaring, hawkers selling their wares, all create a
never ending din.
2 Why is it quieter in the countryside?

Countrysides are less populated, less congested and have
fewer vehicles. There are vast open spaces full of greenery.
So we don’t hear the harsh annoying city sounds of honking
of vehicles, sounds of engines and machinery in factories
etc. We get to hear soothing sounds like the chirping of
birds or the sound of the wind.
3 Why do people like to go to quiet places?

Peaceful places soothe the mind and help people relax. Be-
ing constantly exposed to noise can be irritating and over-
whelming. Silence allows us to get in touch with our own
thoughts, focus better and enjoy the time spent alone.
4 Which age group prefers quiet places - the young or old?

I think younger people like noisy bustling places while those
advanced in age prefer tranquility. This explains why young
people like to visit crowded shopping centres and busy
malls. Old people , on the other hand, prefer secluded plac-
es.
150
5 Why do some people not like quiet places?

For some people, loud sounds are stimulating and exciting.
They feel uncomfortable in the absence of sounds. Probably
they like to plug into loud music all the time.
6 Do you need a quiet place when you’re working?

Yes, I am able to work only in a silent environment. Noises
are distracting for me. I am not able to focus,concentrate,
get ideas or be creative, when there is some kind of noise
in the background. I am also able to achieve much more in
totally peaceful environments.
7 How has life changed in the countryside in your country

or state?
I think the most visible change in the availability of digital
data even in remote rural areas. There is also improvement
in infrastructure especially transport and health care. So
I believe these changes have managed to bridge the gap
151
42 Describe a skill you learned from an older

person
Say what it is
Who you learned it from
How you learned
Sample Answer
Gleaned: obtained
My grandmother has always been a hero of sorts for me
Nuggets: pieces
and I can say I have gleaned nuggets of wisdom and
unique insights from her along with a host of skills. One
Insights: awareness
such skill is frugal living.
Frugal living : living
She lived in times where the income was meagre and there
without spending
were many mouths to feed So she was an excellent penny
much money
pincher.
Meagre: very little
She was very cautious with money and would make every
penny count. Nothing in the house ever got discarded as
Penny pincher: stingy
my grandmother would find some clever way to repurpose
with money
and upcycle it. She also believed in DIY ing.
Splurge: spend
In stark contrast,I belong to a generation that lives on credit
extravagantly
cards. I often feel guilty at the amount of money I tend to
splurge on non essentials. My salary is gone before the
Keep tabs on:
month is over. I realized I needed to be more careful with
carefully monitor
money and that’s what made me turn to my grandma’s tips.
My grandmother taught me to be mindful about the way

I spend and to resist impulse buying .She had a habit of
making a monthly budget on how much to spend and how
much to save.
I also began keeping an account of daily expenses as

well as setting aside some amount as savings. My grand-
mother’s motto of consuming less is another lesson I de-
cided to emulate. When my Grandma used to get cash,
she followed the envelope system, keeping a set amount in
separate envelopes.
Taking cue from her I decided to use an app to keep tabs

on money. I have also made it a habit to explore ways to re-
152
pair or recycle broken items rather than throwing them and

buying replacements.
Knowing the basics of saving, investing and developing

good financial habits is a lifelong gift and for this I owe a big
thanks to my Grandma
Part 3
1 What can children learn from their parents?

Parents are the first teachers and children can learn a host
of things from them. They can learn about adequate sleep,
healthy eating and discipline from their parents. They can
also imbibe values such as honesty, integrity and empathy
along with good behaviour. Parents can also teach their
children how to communicate openly.
2 What can children learn from their grandparents?

Grandparents share a special bond with their grandchil-
dren. Grandparents often tell them stories both imaginary
and real life, which can convey important values and mor-
als. Grandparents can teach children about respecting and
caring for others. There are also traditional skills, simple
games and fun activities of the bygone days that grandpar-
ents can impart to the young ones.
3 What kind of help do you think old people need?

The aged generally feel isolated and lonely,Hence giving
them companionship, encouragement and support would
make them happier. Helping them understand and use
modern technology can help them lead more fulfilling lives.
Old people also need help with going for health check ups
and buying medicines.
4 What can young people learn from old people?

The elderly have a wealth of wisdom and experience. They
can teach young people how to stay strong and overcome
challenges and adversities in life. They can give valuable
advice, teach life lessons, instill values as well as educate
youngsters about their rich culture and heritage.
153
43 Describe an item of clothing someone

gave you
Say what the clothing was
Who gave it to you
When you got it
And explain why this person gave it to you
Sample Answer
Thrilled to pieces: very
About two years back I received a very special birthday gift pleased
from my aunt in Delhi. It was a leather jacket.
Prohibitively
expensive: costing so
I had just bought a bike and my aunt assumed that a leath-
high that it cannot be
er jacket would be the right style for a biker.
afforded
I was thrilled to pieces.
Inseparable: that which
It was a black leather biker jacket.It had two slit pockets
cannot be
and a classic collar, just the kind I wanted. I have always
separated
been fascinated by the cool looks of a leather jacket and
wished to own one.
Elevate: lifted up
But the good ones are prohibitively expensive and I had giv-
Timeless appeal: so
en up on my dream of owning one. So the gift was a dream
beautiful that it cannot
come true.
be changed by time
I wear my jacket almost every time I ride my bike. Some
time back we had gone on a biking tour with my friends and
my jacket was my inseparable partner.
It gives me excellent protection from the weather and keeps

me comfortable.
I usually like to pair it with my denim jeans. That gives a ca-

sual look. But the best part is that I can pair it with chunky
boots and checked pants and elevate my style.
In whatever way I choose to wear it, I know it looks smart

and trendy and makes heads turn.
It is a classic item and will definitely never go out of fashion.

I take very good care of it. After use I put it on a hanger so
that it will keep its shape.
154
I know the jacket is of top quality leather so I hope to use

it for many more years to come. With its timeless appeal,
I can always turn to my jacket to make a bold style state-
ment.
Part 3
1 What is the importance of uniforms in schools?

Uniforms create a sense of equality and eliminate all kinds
of differences.
They foster a sense of pride and unity. They also help peo-
ple identify which school a student belongs to.
2 What are the advantages of uniforms at the workplace?

They act as an identification due to which customers can
easily spot the employees.They can help market a brand
through the logo or emblem.
Uniforms give a professional image Some uniforms help in
safety such as the uniforms of fire fighters.
3 Are there any disadvantages of wearing uniforms?

Sometimes it may be quite boring to wear the same out-
fit day in and day out Also poorly designed uniforms may
hamper performance, for example flight stewardesses need
to wear high heeled shoes which may cause pain when
they need to stand for long hours.
4 Do clothes reveal personality?

Yes, clothes define personality to some extent.
People who wear bright colours are friendly, have positive
thoughts and are outgoing.Those who wear black and grey
are usually more sophisticated
Those who wear abstract, tribal or geometric prints are
usually very creative, unique and bold.
5 Where do Indian people buy clothes from?

They mostly purchase their outfits from online stores like
Myntra, Ajio etc and conventional textile stores. There are
also street markets in several places that sell only clothes
and many young people are attracted to such markets
where trendy and stylish articles of clothing like tops, skirts
jeans etc are available at dirt cheap rates.
155
44 Describe a city you think is very

interesting
Say where it is
What it is famous for
How you know this city
And explain why you think it is very interesting
Sample Answer Loquacious: talkative
Melting pot: place

A city that never stops to fascinate me is New York.I was
introduced to the city through one of my childhood friends, where people of dif-
Harkiran who moved to the city for her graduation. Normally ferent cultures live
she is a quiet person but she becomes loquacious when together
asked about the city.
Open minded:
So I have managed to garner plenty of tidbits from Harkiran receptive to different
when we talk. views
Hub: centre
I realized that I am not the only one who considers the city
very appealing. It was named as the most exciting city in
Mundane: dull
the world recently by a global magazine.
Metropolis: large city
The most striking quality of this city is its ethnic diversity.
This city is known as the melting pot of America with more
than 800 languages spoken there.
There are immigrants from different countries with their own

New York story. This is one point of attraction for me person-
ally,
I believe if you live with people from varied backgrounds,

you can understand, appreciate and respect other cultures,
as well as be more open minded.
New York has also plenty to offer on a cultural level. There

are magnificent museums, theatres, music ,opera, acres
and acres of parks and vast grounds.
There are also the iconic and historical landmarks such

as The Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, St.
Patrick’s Cathedral and the Grand Central Station. We can
attend a concert, ride a bicycle through the vast open spac-
156
es or go on picnics.
There is always something to see or do in this city that nev-

er sleeps. It is also supposed to be a foodie’s paradise with
about 25,000 restaurants serving nearly 60 international
cuisines.It is a hub of business, fashion, entertainment and
technology, with vast job opportunities. So truly life is never
mundane in this exciting metropolis
Part 3
1 Why are people attracted to cities?

I believe the chief reason people opt for city life is that they
are social and financial hubs. People can access better job
opportunities. Eventually it leads to quality of life which en-
compasses better living standards, healthcare system and
top notch school and university education. The reason for
these facilities is because cities are designed to be social
and financial hubs.
2 What are the differences between the young and old with
regard to choosing a place to live?
The general consensus is that old people or retired people
seek to live in a quiet neighbourhood, whereas young peo-
ple would prefer to live in a thriving locality with lots of op-
tions. Young adults choose to live in a city where an ample
amount of professional opportunities present themselves.
On the other hand pensioners favour the tranquility and
calm of the countryside.
3 Which is better, living in one place all our life or living in

different places ?
For me, living in different places throughout our life is more
beneficial and exciting. Firstly it would give wider opportu-
nities for professional development and personal growth.
Furthermore, shifting to a new place is exciting as it is an
unknown and unfamiliar area that you can explore. New
places also give you a chance to interact with different
communities, cultures and people.
157
4 Do you think tourists affect historical places positively or

negatively?
I believe tourism can impact historical spots in both positive
and negative ways. Firstly it is the tourist interest that moti-
vates the state to ensure they are conserved properly. With-
out historical value, old places would fall into a state of total
disrepair.On the other hand, influx of tourists means more
pressure on the land and resources and fragile old struc-
tures can be greatly threatened.
158
45 Describe a rule that you don’t like

Say what it is
Why you don’t like it
How others feel about the rule
And why you dislike it
Sample Answer
Stickler for : someone
I have always been a stickler for rules, but there is one rule who insists on
that I find quite irksome and totally unreasonable.
Irksome: irritating
This is a rule imposed by Kottayam Public library, a library
in my city, forbidding members from charging their phones Unreasonable:
or laptops while in the library. illogical
The library is a book lover’s paradise and is a well stocked Genres: style or
one offering a host of resources . My friends and I are fre- category
quent visitors to this place.
Downtime: free time
Along with thousands of books of all genres and news-
papers , members can also avail themselves of computer Umpteen: numerous
terminals and free Wi-Fi. You can even get your own laptops
and work for hours Idyllic: perfect
.
Whenever I am looking for some quiet downtime or want to Aggravating : causing
work undisturbed on a project, complete an assignment or annoyance
just catch up on some reading, I head to this library.
Have a beef wit h: have
But there have been umpteen occasions when I have been a complaint about
rudely jolted out of this idyllic setting by my laptop battery
getting completely drained. There is nothing more aggravat- Repeal: cancel
ing than being in the middle of some important work and
suddenly the laptop dies. Flout: violate
Although there are power sockets in the library, the rule Arbitrary: based on
forbidding charging of devices, means that you are forced to desire rather than
head back home. reason
Such disruptions in work can easily be avoided if the library Decorum: correct
would allow members to charge their devices. behaviour
Several members have complained about the unfairness

of this rule. College students, free lancers, researchers
159
all have a beef with this policy and have made repeated
requests to the management to repeal this rule, but to no
avail. There are some who try to flout the rules when the
staff is not around.
I am basically a respecter of rules and libraries definitely

need strict rules and regulations to ensure their smooth
and hassle free functioning. But I feel this rule is totally ar-
bitrary and illogical and seems to bear little connection with
maintaining the library decorum.
Part 3
1 Why do we need rules?
We see rules everywhere and we may even feel at times

that they restrict our freedom and are oppressive.However
the fact is that without rules there would be anarchy and
chaos.Rules are the building blocks of harmonious and
peaceful societies.Rules ensure civil behaviour and as well
as ensure fairness, justice and safety. Rules provide the
framework on which to act and operate.
2 Why do schools make rules?

Schools make rules to ensure their smooth functioning and
create a peaceful learning environment. So students have
rules related to punctuality, uniforms, exams and so on.
Many rules in schools are designed to keep students safe.
They also play a key role in disciplining students, shaping
their behaviour and equipping them for the future.
3 What’s the importance of obeying laws?

It is imperative for people to obey laws. If people were to do
what they please, there would
be chaos. Laws are put in place to ensure a safe and
peaceful society in which individual’s
rights are respected.
If people break laws there would be conflicts and disagree-
ments between social groups and communities. Laws help
safeguard people’s life and property.
4 What can parents and teachers do to help children follow

rules?
160
Parents and teachers must be unequivocal and clear about

rules. Children must be strictly told to obey rules and break-
ing them must have consequences. This would give them a
clear understanding of the paramount need to respect rules
and abide by them.
5 What rules do children usually follow at home?

Most homes have clear rules. They may be related to dental
and body hygiene, being polite and respectful or even with
regard to household chores.
161
46 Describe someone you really like to spend

time with
Say who this person is
What you usually do together
And explain why you like to spend time with him/her
Sample Answer
Prattle: simple talk
A person whose company I enjoy thoroughly is my nephew.
Antics: funny
He is my brother’s three year old son Rahul and we call
behaviour
him Appu. Like all three year olds, he is lively , energetic
and sociable.
Stomping: walking
One can never get bored with Appu, with his funny antics
With a loud step
and non stop prattle he never fails to make us all laugh.
cuddle: hug, hold
He is a bit more inclined to me than all other family
closely
members and I think that’s because usually I am the only
one willing to play with him.
Bombarding: keep
asking
We both do a lot of fun things together like playing hide
and seek, firing water guns at imaginary thieves ,making
Rummages: searches
swords out of cardboard or stomping and splashing in wa-
ter puddles after the rains.
His parents are strict with him and have rules but Appu
knows that I allow him to do whatever he wants. I indulge
him with sweets, toys and ice creams. Everyone in the fami-
ly says I am spoiling him.
At night, Appu likes to cuddle with me in bed and listen to

stories. Telling him stories actually requires a huge amount
of patience because he keeps bombarding me with ques-
tions .
Whenever I return from college, he grins from ear to ear

and runs to me, arms held out and gives me a big bear hug.
My lap is his favourite place and once we sit he rummages

my bag for his favourite chocolate. that I always buy for him.
162
Sometimes Appu does naughty things like scribbling with

crayons on the walls, jumping on the couch or playing with
his father’s laptop, gets a scolding or spanking from his
parents and comes sobbing to me.
I take him in my lap, tickle him,tell him jokes and he is hap-

py again.
I can say that time spent with Appu is full of wonderful sur-
prises and priceless moments which I will always cherish.
Part 3
1 What are the benefits of younger and older generations

living together?
There are significant perks of this arrangement. One ben-
efit is that elders can get assistance and care from their
children since they usually have age related disabilities and
health issues. Family members can keep an eye on their
medical needs such as periodic health check ups, daily
medications etc. Also elders also get to enjoy the company
of their grandchildren. This removes feelings of loneliness
and isolation.
Children on the other hand can enjoy the undivided atten-

tion and love from grandparents and also learn many things
from them. Further, in families where both spouses go for
work, household chores can be shared and grandparents
can help with care of children. Thus family bonds and rela-
tionships can be strengthened.
2 What are the disadvantages of older and younger gener-

ations living together?
There can be friction, strife and differences of opinion. Dis-
agreements can also arise over issues like finances, family
responsibilities, parenting etc.
Moreover people will have less personal space and hence
less privacy.
3 Do you think there are differences between how men and

women care for children?
163
Yes, I think the approaches of the father and mother to-

wards their children can be quite different. Fathers tend to
be tough and strict, while mothers are soft towards their
children. Another difference is that mothers are more open
and demonstrative of their love and affection than fathers.
4 Is family bonding important for happiness in life?

I would say, a warm caring family environment plays a key
role in the proper emotional development of children. Chil-
dren feel loved and secure which helps them grow into
happy and confident adults.
164
47 Describe a time you visited a new place

Say when you went there
Which place it was
Why you went there
Sample Answer
Stunning: attractive
A stunning getaway that I visited a few years back was
Munnar. It is a picturesque hill station in Kerala and one of
Getaway : an esape
the most popular destinations in South India.
Mist Clad: covered
I went there with my family during the Christmas holidays
with mist
about four years back.
Sprawling : spread out
Mist clad mountains, rivers that look like silver ribbons,
sprawling tea plantations and gurgling waterfalls, make this
Picturesque : attractive
place, one of the most charming destinations.
We stayed in Munnar for 3 days . The weather was cool and

charming and it was the perfect time to visit Munnar.
There are numerous places for sightseeing and a host of

things to do in and around Munnar, so every minute there
was packed with fun and excitement.
I thoroughly enjoyed trekking up the enchanting mountain
trails.
We trekked to a place called Echo point. When we reached

the top, we were able to enjoy some stunning views and we
had fun listening to our echo as we shouted and screamed.
Another captivating place to visit in Munnar is the Eraviku-
lam National Park.
This wildlife sanctuary is famous for the highly endangered

species called the Nilgiri Tahr. We also visited a spice gar-
den where we got an insight into how cardamom, ginger
and turmeric are cultivated.
Visits to tea factories are also an integral part of the itiner-

ary. Our guide arranged jeeps for us to travel up the bumpy
roads to the factory.
165
There we saw how the freshly plucked tea leaves from the
plantations are processed into the tea we get at the mar-
ket. I was very excited to meet the plantation workers, who
explained to me how they picked the leaves by hand.
This trip was truly memorable for me. The picturesque

beauty of this place refreshed and rejuvenated me. I carried
back some of the most beautiful memories of this trip.
Part 3
1 What measures should be taken to deal with damage to

public facilities?
The government should deal strictly with those who dam-
age or vandalize public facilities. Young people are espe-
cially seen damaging public property and it is important to
deal with such miscreants sternly.
2 What are the differences between new and old facilities?

Old facilities such as parks or libraries were simple and did
not involve much expenses. However new ones are extrav-
agant and built with the latest features and are of global
standards.
3 What facilities do young and old people like in your coun-

try?
All age groups like facilities for fun and enjoyment.Parks,
malls, theatres etc offer people a break from their stressful
lives, improve bonding within family and community and
enhance the quality of life.
4 What is the difference between facilities in the countryside

and those in cities?
The countryside usually has only basic facilities such as ed-
ucation or health care., whereas cities offer entertainment
and leisure options for city dwellers to unwind and enjoy.
Facilities in the countryside are modest and simple, where-
as in cities, they are top notch and are aimed to offer a taste
of luxury and extravagance.
166
48 Describe a house or apartment you would

like to live in
Say which it is
Where it is
Why you would like to live there
Sample Answer Scout: search for
I recently got an opportunity to visit a newly constructed Aesthetic: artistic

apartment complex in Cochin with my friend Geetikia. Actu-
ally Geetike is planning to relocate to Cochin from Mumbai Panoramic: of a wide
and wanted me to help her scout around some properties in area
the area.
Bowled over: amazed
I was highly impressed by the functional yet aesthetic de-
sign of the Haritha Apartments that we visited and I would Pastel : light colours
definitely like to move into it sometime in the near future.
Recessed wall niches :
The apartment is in the heart of Cochin city and all of the small hollow space
city’s best shopping, entertainment and dining destinations inside a wall
are within a five kilometre radius.
Rundown: in a poor
There are also many malls and markets within walking dis- and neglected state
tance or a quick ride in the Metro..
Minimalistic: simple
Each of the flats has a view of the waterfront. In this crowd- and plain
ed bustling noisy city, we can enjoy a haven of peace just
sitting on our balcony and enjoying the beautiful panoramic
view of the sea. I was completely bowled over by that idea.
I was also very impressed by the open kitchen plan with

a built-in breakfast counter. It felt it was an optimal use of
space.
The bedrooms and living area are large and have floor- to-
roof windows which allow the sunlight to flood in and make
the rooms bright and airy.
The pastel shades of the walls make it look very trendy.

The hallway has a series of recessed wall niches for plants
167
or decor items.The modern cabinets and cupboards , the

stylish sinks and bathroom fixtures and the granite coun-
tertops all add to the modern look of the apartment.
There is also plenty of storage space in the form of walk in

closets, racks and storage nooks here and there.
My present flat is quite an old one with a basic design and

rundown rooms and I would love to move into this apart-
ment with its contemporary minimalistic features and luxury
amenities
Part 3
1 Do most Indian people live in an apartment or house?

Well, in urban areas, apartments are generally the most
preferred accommodation. City dwellers find apartments
very convenient due to the proximity to modern amenities
and their compact design. So I can say that people in cities
prefer apartments, while those in the countryside are more
inclined towards large spacious houses.
2 Do young people like to live with their parents or by

themselves?
There is an increasing trend of millennials and gen zers
moving out of their homes. They are more independent and
most of them opt to move out and stay on their own or with
their friends especially once they start earning.
3 How are modern home designs different from those in

the past?
I think modern homes give greater importance to optimal
space utilization. They tend to be minimalistic in design with
open floor plans, unlike houses in the past where rooms
were all separate. Today a wide variety of modern construc-
tion materials are available such as glass, steel, hardwood
along with finishing materials such as ceramic, stone or
even glass, which are not only cost effective but aesthetical-
ly pleasing.
168
4 Do people usually rent or buy a house?

I believe that while the older generation favoured the idea of
owning a house, millennials prefer renting houses. This may
probably be due to the fact that young people today are less
inclined to the idea of staying in one place and tend to relo-
cate in search of better prospects. Experts forecast that the
growth in the rental market could outpace homeownership
over the next decade.
169
49 Describe a person who contributes to

society
Say who he is
How you know him
What type of work he does
And explain why you think he contributes to society
Sample Answer Unsung heroes:

persons not noticed
There are numerous inspiring men and women who are for their hard work
famous for their positive contributions to society. There are
also several unsung heroes who work silently and sincerely Hefty: heavy
to make the world a better place.
Meagre: ittle
One such person is Pratima Devi, a rag- picker and a slum
dweller in Saket in South Delhi,. She seems like a highly Forego : do without
unlikely candidate to be named as a contributor to society.
However her life story is nothing less than extraordinary Furry companions: pets
and unbelievable. (cats/dogs)
She isn’t just a normal morning to evening rag- picker, she

is also a guardian of dogs.She has made her life’s mission
to care for over 400 stray dogs .
Protima Devi is a perfect example of the fact that we do

not need a hefty bank balance to help others. Despite her
meagre daily earning, she not only makes sure that her
dogs are properly fed but that they also get the proper med-
ical care.
She lives in a shabby tin shack and often foregoes her own
medicines, but makes sure her furry companions never lack
anything.
Protima Devi got married early and marital abuse forced

her to leave her home in Nandigram in West Bengal. She
reached Delhi and in the large unfamiliar new city, it was
her furry friends who gave her company and soon became
her family.
She continued to feed, protect and take care of her adopted
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strays. She has three children, who are now grown up and
live in their own homes and keep inviting their mother to
stay with them.
But since the dogs are not welcome in their homes, Protima
Devi continues to stay on in her shack.
Of course, there are many people who genuinely care
about the well being of others but often it is done in ways
that do not harm their pockets or their convenience.
For Protima Devi, her needs always come second. It is this

selflessness that makes her truly inspiring. It is no wonder
that the story of the dog lady had reached far and wide.
Many dog lovers visit her and offer her help. Dog mother
India is an ideal name for her.
Part 3
Part 3
However in the past there was a closer sense of community
and willingness to reach out to others.

Being caring and helpful are vital qualities that should be
instilled in children. It can be done by setting good exam-
ples for them to copy. Parents should exhibit a culture of
selflessness and compassion in their words and deeds.

Doctors, nurses, teachers, those involved with emergency
services all help people in need.

They may be compassionate and selfless by nature. They
always put others and their interests before their own and
5 What is more important in a job, the income or the inter-

est one has in it?
Well I believe a job which interests me would be more
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preferable for me because I would be passionate about it. I

would be able to put my heart and soul into it and that will
give me such a huge sense of self fulfillment and satisfac-
tion and it would be highly rewarding.
6 Are there many well paid jobs that are not very interest-
ing?
Yes there are jobs that come with impressive paychecks but
can be quite boring. I think accountants, computer program-
mers, database engineers all sit at a desk staring at their
computers and do tedious jobs but take home a six figure
salary.
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50 Describe a story someone told you and

you remember
Say what the story was about
Who told you the story
Why you remember it
Indelible mark: a
Sample Answer lasting impact
Stories never fail to fascinate and inspire us. One story that Perspectives: attitude
left an indelible mark on me was the one I heard on the
orientation day programme for us new recruits in a firm. The The bigger picture:an
story was about three masons. overall view
They were all working at a construction site. Each of them Mundane: dull and
was asked what he was doing. boring
The first one said that he was laying bricks, the second one Guiding force:
answered that he was building a wall, while the third one motivating principle
proudly said that he was building a palace for the king.
Although all three were doing the same thing everyday,

they had different perspectives on what they were doing.
Each one had a different attitude towards their work and

this would make a huge difference in the quality of their
work.
The story very powerfully brings out the importance of

seeing the bigger picture. When we see the end result of
what we’re doing, we have a greater enthusiasm and pride.
This would make us excel in what we do. On the other

hand, our tasks would be mundane and boring if we lack a
sense of purpose.
I recently read something very similar to what this story

conveys. Once late American president John F Kennedy
visited NASA and he saw a janitor mopping the floor.
Kennedy asked him what his job at NASA was and the
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janitor replied that he was helping send a man to the moon.
So understanding the big picture has always been a

guiding force for me At work, instead of always focussing
on just the small details and day to day tasks, I consider the
larger impact, the overall plan and vision of the
organization. I believe this gives me greater purpose and
fulfillment.the organization. I believe this gives me greater
purpose and self fulfillment.
Part 3
1 Has storytelling changed over the years?

I would say that the art of storytelling is dying.I think chil-
dren born in the eighties and before had the opportunity to
listen to their parents or grandparents telling them stories
mostly during bedtime. With the coming of books, people
began to read stories aloud to children imitating the actions
and voices of the characters, which made the stories more
engaging. However, nowadays children get initiated into the
world of technology at a very early age and hence listening
to stories has been replaced by watching cartoons, movies
or playing online games. Digital stories have also appeared
on the scene transforming the way stories are delivered.
2 Which is better - traditional storytelling or the use of tech-

nology in storytelling?
Traditional storytelling means a person narrates a story .He

uses his voice, different tones ,facial expressions etc to tell
the story, whereas doing this digitally involves using com-
puter based tools. Digital stories incorporate several other
elements like sound, music, images and videos. So I be-
lieve using technology definitely adds to the experience of
the story but the traditional method ensured a greater bond-
ing and intimacy between the storyteller and the listener.
3 Do you think generally people are good at storytelling?

Yes I think generally all people are good raconteurs, sharing
their experiences and life stories with others. Sometimes
it may be round the dinner table to make people laugh or
it may be to inspire and motivate a friend. I think sharing
anecdotes is a kind of story telling
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4 What makes storytelling effective?

Stories must have a meaningful sequence. It must be a
chronological account. There must be a strong central
theme or message. The narrative style, the voice, facial
expressions and tone of the storyteller can all play a role in
making the story engaging and interesting.
5 Is it important to tell stories?

Yes I think stories are a powerful way to engage others.
We all tell anecdotes from our life or other stories to others
to inspire,entertain or influence them. Telling stories helps
with learning also since they are easy to remember. This
is probably why more and more corporates are embracing
storytelling as an effective way to motivate and inspire their
staff as well as sell their products.
6 Do older children like the same stories as younger chil-

dren?
I think older children would prefer stories with plenty of
characters and complicated plot, whereas smaller children
like small stories, mostly fables or fairy tales.
7 Why do children like stories?

Children love stories as it feeds their imagination. Stories
transport them to imaginary worlds and sometimes children
think of themselves as part of that world. So stories about
fairies, giants, witches and superheroes are very exciting
for children.
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51 Describe a gift you would like to buy for

your friend
Say what gift you would like to buy
Who you would like to give it to
And explain why you would like to give this gift
Sample Answer A tough call: a difficult

task
I love giving gifts but selecting the right gift is often a tough
call. I have been pondering for quite some time over the Pondering: thinking
perfect gift for my bosom friend Jyoti who is tying the knot
next month. Scouring: searching
I have settled for the idea of gifting her a watch. Snazzy: stylish
For quite some time I had been scouring gift shops, check- Caught my eye:
ing out gift ideas on websites. attracted my attention
I was in a dilemma over whether the gift should be some- Old school: old
thing functional and practical or sentimental and meaning- fashioned
ful.
Fetish: a strong liking
However, a few days back, I happened to come across an
advertisement of a watch company in a magazine and the
snazzy watch featured in the advertisement caught my eye.
I visited the website of the company and when I saw the

range of stylish and stunning watches, right then and there
I made up my mind that my gift would be a watch.
Almost the entire world has moved from watches to their

mobile phones to find out the time, but Jyoti is old school
and has a fetish about watches. In the ten years that I have
known her, I have never seen her without a watch.
So I am confident that a watch is a gift she will appreciate

and treasure.
I plan to give her a rose gold tone Fossil watch. It has a

mesh bracelet a white dial with crystal hour markers. It
176
has a contemporary look and is the perfect combination of

beauty and utility.It would not just be functional but also a
style statement.
Part 3
1 Why do people give gifts?

Gifts make the receiver feel special. Gifts are a nice way of
communicating our feelings such as our love, affection or
appreciation. Thus they help to strengthen relationships.
2 Do you prefer handmade or store bought gifts?

Well personally I prefer receiving DIY gifts.It is very touch-
ing and heartwarming to know that someone put in so
much of their time and effort to make something unique and
personal. It means a lot to me.
3 What are the common gift ideas?

Most people prefer to give something functional and useful.
For a house warming function, gifts like cookware, decor
accessories or clocks are considered good gifts. For birth-
days or weddings, people scout for something based on
the people’s tastes and interests. Offbeat gift ideas such as
tickets for a concert, a year’s subscription for Netflix etc are
also common.
4 Does the cost of the gift matter?

For me what counts is the affection and the thought behind
it rather than the cost.
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52 Describe a time when you moved to a new

home or school
Say when you moved
Where you moved
Why you moved
Sample Answer Traumatic: stressful
Moving from one place to another can be quite a thrilling Uprooting: leaving a
experience for some, but for others it can be quite place
traumatic. When I had to say goodbye to my childhood
home a few years back, it was an intensely painful Transition: change
moment.
Bereaved: saddened
It was in the year 2014 that my parents retired from their
respective jobs and decided to relocate to their hometown. Perched :seated
This came as a shock to me as I had never, even in my Terrain: a

wildest dreams, thought of uprooting myself from the city geographical area
and home that I grew up in.
Memorabilia: objects
I had lived here for nearly 20 years and although this that are collected as a
transition was unavoidable, I couldn’t help feeling remembrance
bereaved. Every corner of this house was bursting with
memories both good and bad. Discard: throw away
My younger siblings were born in this house. My mother Vignette: scene

had a large vegetable garden in the backyard and we
children were allotted small spaces where we made our
own gardens and competed with each other.
There were many children in the neighbourhood and we all

were one huge gang hanging around together in the
evenings. We were like one family. The huge guava tree was
our favourite hangout place, with each one of us perched
on one of its branches.
It was depressing to go through the whole packaging and

shifting process and above all that it was heartbreaking to
step out of my childhood home once and for all and enter a
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totally unfamiliar terrain. My house had served as a haven Terrain: a

for assorted memorabilia. I had to sort through my boxes geographical area
full of keepsakes - my class photos, report cards,
newspaper clippings, my high school jacket, my first Memorabilia: objects
painting, my dolls and magazine cutouts. that are collected as a
remembrance
I had to go through the painful process of deciding what to
keep and what to discard. Obviously I could not take Discard: throw away
everything to the new house.
Vignette: scene
As my parents proceeded with the selling, paperwork and
packing, I knew I had to accept this change. I walked
around with my camera and took pictures of every room,
each little vignette.
I realized that in life we need to simply let go and move on. I

made peace with the change.
As I realized later change doesn’t always mean loss - it can

open up opportunities for new things in life, a fresh start. I
love my new home now. I have a whole new set of
memories here with my loved ones.
Part 3
1 Why do people move to a new home?

In my country, people move from the home of their parents,
to a new home when they get married and wish to set up a
family of their own. They also do so when they relocate to a
new city or country in search of jobs or for higher studies.
2 What problems do people face after moving to a new

place? How do people solve them?
A new place comes with new challenges. The first thing,

of course, is to find a suitable house or an apartment. We
need to get familiar with the roads and transportation. The
packing, unpacking and adjusting with the new environ-
ment, the topography, the neighbours or maybe even a
totally unfamiliar culture can make the process tedious and
frustrating.
However, the process can become less stressful through
proper planning at every step. Being systematic and me-
thodical with packing, finding efficient movers and getting
179
professional help can make relocating less burdensome.

Also, if we are adaptable and adjusting,issues related to
unfamiliar surroundings can be resolved quite effortlessly.
Further, in most places, the sense of community is often
strong and this support helps in easy integration into a new
area.
3 What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in

the same place?
Residing in the same location can help us form close
bonds with our community, so much so that the entire
neighbourhood can begin to feel like a family. However the
downside is that it can get quite dull and monotonous living
in the same surroundings.
4 Is it good to move to new places frequently?

I don’t think relocating too often is a good idea. It would de-
prive people, especially children, of a sense of belonging or
roots. Also it is quite stressful transporting goods from one
place to another. The emotional setbacks of having to part
from close friends and neighbours and move to totally unfa-
miliar places is yet another downside.
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53 Describe a time when you felt proud of a

family member
Say when it was
Who the person is
What he did
And explain why you felt proud of him/her
Sample Answer Apprehensive: worried
Just last year my brother cleared the Chartered Gruelling: long and
Accountancy exam. That was a moment of pride for our tiring
family. The CA exam is considered the toughest exam in the
world with a success rate of just 6-7 percent and to crack Consistent: not
this exam was no mean achievement. changing
The exam is divided into different levels and at each level Stuck to his guns: not
there are four or five papers. It is a really challenging exam changing one’s beliefs
and people take almost 7-8 years to clear the entire exam
i.e. all the levels. Tenacity:
determination
I remember when my brother expressed his interest in
becoming a Chartered Accountant, we were all quite Perseverance : hard
apprehensive and tried to discourage him. work
We knew how hard and gruelling the exam was and the Paid off: gave results
years of consistent effort he would need to put in. But
he was quite determined and stuck to his guns. No goal The long haul : taking
comes effortlessly or easily. We watched how he pursued long time and lot of
his goal with tenacity, determination and perseverance all effort
those five years.
There were hurdles, obstacles and failures. He had to

sacrifice a lot of things. He missed family functions and
parties, stayed away from social media , and studied for
about 10-12 hours everyday.
All his efforts paid off and finally a few months back he
cleared his final paper. Our family, friends and relatives
were all thrilled and overwhelmed by this exciting news.
His disciplined approach, positive attitude and patience to

survive the long haul helped him. We feel truly proud of his
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hard earned achievement.
Part 3
1 When do parents feel proud of their children?

Parents love their children unconditionally and are always
proud of them. However every time their children score high
in exams or top in extracurricular activities, parents experi-
ence a great sense of pride.
2 Should parents reward children?
I believe it is a must for parents to reward their children. Re-
wards are an effective way of reinforcing positive behaviour.
Children will feel motivated to continue doing well when
they feel they are appreciated for it.
3 Is it good to reward children too often?
I believe rewarding children each time they behave well

or do good things may seem like a bribe and thus can be
manipulative. Instead of imbibing good behaviour, children
may do things only to impress and get rewards. It is possi-
ble that as they grow up they will constantly seek approval
and admiration.
4 On what occasions would adults be proud of themselves?

Adults are likely to experience a sense of pride in their
accomplishments. It may be landing a lucrative job, buying
a house, passing a tough exam, starting their own business
or even losing weight. There are people who feel proud of
the way they overcame setbacks in their life and steered
ahead in the face of tragedies. Some may have fought de-
bilitating diseases and emerged victorious. So there are a
host of different things people may pride themselves in.
182
54 Describe an activity you do that wastes

your time
Say what it is
Why you do it
And explain why you think it is a waste of time
Sample Answer Seemingly: Outwardly
During the Covid19 lockdown phase, I faced days of Hooked: addicted

isolation at home and since recreation sources are limited
in the home setting,I started watching web series on Netflix. Cliffhangers: an
episode of a serial
What started off as something seemingly harmless ending in suspense
however has become an addiction. Nowadays it has
become common for me to binge watch them for hours on Resolution: decision
end. I am so hooked on it that I am forever in front of the
television, often neglecting important tasks. Back to back: on
following the other
I must say the content on web streaming platforms is so
thrilling. Jamtara, Delhi Crime and Mirzapur are some of my Colossal: huge
favourite series.
So even though I know fully well that it’s a sheer waste of

time, I am unable to put the remote down. All episodes end
in cliffhangers and it is impossible to tear myself away,
when I have immediate access to all the episodes.
So unable to bear the suspense I fast forward to the next

episode and end up watching upto 4-5 episodes in one
sitting. With the good old television, I would be forced to
stop after the day’s episode. But with streaming services we
have access to all the episodes of a season.
My daily routine is almost fixed now. As soon as my office

work is done, I turn on the television, sit comfortably on the
couch, grab some snacks and although I start with a
resolution to just watch one episode, I end up watching
them back-to-back before I know it’s 4 in the morning.
I am deeply aware of the colossal waste of time this is. I

know it affects my work, my goals and my commitments. It
183
interferes with my daily routines.

Snapping out: getting
This is even disconnecting me from my friends and even out
my family as I hardly get to spend time with them. Trading
my sleep for more Netflix time is also leaving me fatigued Reclaiming : get back
and tired. again
I have started working on snapping out of this

unproductive practice. I have enrolled for an online baking
class and have started to spend some of my evening time
on this new found hobby. So I can say I am already making
good progress in reclaiming my life.
Part 3
How do you balance work and life?

It is vital to strike a balance between work and life to lead
a happy and healthy life. Being over committed to our work
and working long hours can adversely affect our physical
and mental well being as well as our home and relation-
ships. To strike the right balance, I make it a point to draw
clear lines between work and home and I never allow one
to encroach on the other. I always try to divide my time
carefully between these two areas, so that I get a sense of
fulfilment in both. It is absolutely necessary to find time for
family, friends and hobbies along with meeting deadlines.
Will you continue doing something when you are aware that
it wastes your time?
Definitely not. I believe that time is a precious commodity.
Once lost it’s lost forever and a key tool to success is opti-
mal use of time. So if I feel that an activity is a huge draw
on my time, I would definitely avoid it.
What kind of things make people pressured?

People experience stress from various sources. It may be
financial stress, where they struggle to make both ends
meet. It could be workplace pressure due to the enormous
demands, tight deadlines or friction and strife among the
colleagues. Another source of pressure could be relation-
ships at home or at the workplace.
184
55 Describe a skill that was difficult to learn

Say what it is
Why you do it
And explain why you think it is a waste of time
Sample Answer Uphill task: difficult job
I am quite an expert driver today but about five years back Smooth sailing: easy
when I started learning driving, it was an uphill task. progress
All my friends had learnt to drive quite fast and I assumed it Manoeuvring :
would be smooth sailing for me.But the reality was just the controlling
opposite.
Stalled: to stop
I faced problems at every step. Just getting behind the suddenly
wheel made me nervous. The idea of manoeuvring a large
machine all by myself and the damage I could do scared Panicky : scared
me. I was confused with changing gears and had trouble
with the clutch and accelerator. Rich dividends : brings
advantages at a later
I ended up getting stalled many times in the middle of busy date
roads, as I released the clutch abruptly. Busy roads were
another challenge.
Just the sight of the heavy traffic would make me panicky

and at times I would be so terror stricken that I would just
slam the brakes abruptly in the middle of the road.
I realized that driving a car requires me to multitask. I was

supposed to remember all the rules, use the right signals
and know what road signs meant.
My driving instructor was quite patient with me, probably

because he had seen worse drivers than me. He
encouraged me and slowly I gained confidence in driving
through better busy congested roads.
I became more skilled in the different maneuvers like

making U-turns, driving in roundabouts and intersections.
With each kilometer I clocked, kept improving my skill. I
became more and more comfortable behind the wheel and
185
finally cleared my driving test in the first attempt. I feel al- Rich dividends: brings
though the skill was difficult to master, it pays me rich advantages at a later
dividends. date
Part 3
1 At what age is it difficult to learn skills?

I think determination and persistent efforts can enable
people of all ages to acquire skills but as age advances the
level of difficulty is likely to increase.
2 Will the age of 5 or 20 be better?

Both these ages are suitable for acquiring skills appropriate
for the age. For instance a five year old cannot be taught
driving or computer skills.
3 Who will you learn a skill from - friends, teachers or par-

ents?
I think teachers would be better instructors as they would
have better experience and knowhow regarding how to
impart skills to others. From their experience of teaching
numerous students they would be able to customize their
approach and achieve faster results.
4 What is the difference between children learning what

they like and learning what they are forced to ?
Learning with interest ensures faster and better results, as
there would be a greater degree of passion, involvement
and pleasure in what they are doing. However forced study
is boring, monotonous and progress is likely to be very
slow.
5 What are the different kinds of skills that are important

for people?
We all need a variety of skills in our day to day life. These
requirements depend on our life circumstances and situa-
tions. Communication and interpersonal skills are extremely
crucial to live and work with others. Decision making and
problem solving skills are required to meet our day to day
challenges at home and work.
At college students need to develop their reading, writing
and leadership skills. Time management, money manage-
186
ment, note making etc are also relevant especially in stu-

dent life.
6 What are the skills important in the workplace?

Skills are especially valuable for employees. Niche skills are
of course vital so that they have expertise in that specific
area such as programming, coding, designing etc. However
there are also some general skills that are equally valuable.
These include organizational skills, critical thinking and
team work skills.Honing these skills can definitely maximize
our chances of being successful in our jobs.
187
56 Describe the person who impressed you

the most when you were in primary school
Say who he or she was
How you knew him/her
Why he/she impressed you
And explain how you feel about him/her
Sample Answer Upbeat: cheerful
Although much of my primary school days are a blur, I Emanated: spreading

remember a few people I was very fond of. One among from
them was Mrs Shivani, my class teacher in the first and
second standards. We all just adored her. Contagious: spreading
She used to breeze into class grinning broadly and we Oozed: seeped out
knew she was as happy to see us as we were to see her.
She always had an upbeat mood, a sense of vitality and Intimidating: scary
enthusiasm.
Belittled: humiliated
The energy she emanated was contagious and there was
never a dull day for us.
She taught us through fun activities like role plays,

competitions and quizzes.
I think what distinguished her from all other teachers was

the love and affection that she oozed. There was a genuine
warmth about her.
She would hug us, nurse our wounds when we hurt

ourselves and sympathise with us when our toys broke.
Her role was not just limited to teaching. She had to tie our
shoelaces, fix our ponytails and help us draw straight lines
in our notebooks.
She was like a second mother to all of us. Her hugs and
kisses along with her words of appreciation and
encouragement helped us build a strong sense of
confidence in ourselves and carried us through the chal-
lenges that we faced in later years.
As we moved to senior classes, there were teachers who

were strict and intimidating and often belittled and
188
demeaned us for our mistakes. But the trust Mrs Shivani Reposed: placed
had reposed in us, kept our self esteem intact. Truly she
was an outstanding teacher who made a significant impact
on the lives of her students.
Part 3
1 Why do people always miss their childhood?

I think every single person cherishes his childhood days.
This stage can be called a golden period in life, when we
just soak up all the love, affection and pampering of our
parents and other relatives. In childhood we have no cares,
anxieties or responsibilities and we just flit from day to day
enjoying, exploring and having fun with our gang of friends.
However as we grow, life becomes more and more compli-
cated with burdens and responsibilities of studies,
workplace,household demands and so on.
2 Are kids happier than adults?

Yes, I believe kids are happier than adults. They have no
cares in the world. Their minds are innocent and they are
quick to forget and forgive. They are curious and full of
wonder at the things around them and so each day is
packed with new discoveries and fun.
3 Why do people still remember many of their friends from

primary school?
It is probably because those are usually the first friends
they make and they remain together almost all through the
primary school years. They often create happy memories
together with their childhood friends of playing with toys,
getting wet in the rain or their various school activities.
4 What kind of primary school teachers impress students?

Usually children are very close to their teachers at the
primary school level. They consider them almost like their
second mothers. Students are so fond of them that they
share everything with them, tell them about all that hap-
pened, show them their new toys or dresses and even
share their candies with them. So I think teachers who are
loving and affectionate are the type of teachers, who appeal
to children the most.
189
57 Describe an item on which you spent

more than expected
Say what it is
How much you spent on it
Why you bought it
And explain why you think you spent more than expected
I love window shopping on ecommerce websites. I am Thrifty: stingy

basically thrifty by nature and my main objective as I scour
the different online stores is to see if I can land some at- Objective : aim
tractive deals.
Scour: search
A few months back I planned to buy a phone as mine
was almost three years old. I was over the moon to see Over the moon: very
a Realme phone with just the features I wanted at a 30% happy
discount.
Dumbstruck: shocked
It was an end of season offer and I could hardly contain my and unable to speak
excitement. The discount meant that I could get this amaz-
ing phone with all the advanced features for just Rs 20,000 Long drawn out:
which was well within my budget. extending for a long
time
I immediately placed the order. Often items get out of stock
very fast during flash promotions and sales and I didnt Ranted and raved :
want to miss this offer. speak loudly and
angrily
A few days later I got a call informing me that there was
some problem with the stock and so I would have to wait Penny pincher:
until the new stock arrived. I definitely didn’t mind waiting a someone who is very
few more days. careful with money
About two weeks later my package arrived. To my horror, Mortified:

the delivery executive demanded Rs 33,000 which was the embarrassed
full amount. I was dumbstruck.
I immediately contacted the customer care service. I was

informed that my phone was not shipped during the time-
frame of the discount and hence I would not be able to
avail myself of the discount.
I felt angry, frustrated and confused. I had a long drawn out

argument with the executive but it did not go anywhere.I
ranted and raved but to no avail.
190
I did not want to return the product as I had waited over 2

weeks and I was eager to use the new phone. So I reluc-
tantly paid the full amount.
As a penny pincher I was quite mortified that I had

purchased such a costly phone, but slowly as the days
passed I realized it was definitely value for money.
Part 3
1 Do you often buy more than you expected?
I am quite an impulsive buyer and tend to buy whatever

attracts me. I have often ended up buying bags or dresses
even when I never needed any. I know being a spendthrift
is not a good tendency and I must exercise more prudence
and restraint while shopping.
2 What do you think young people spend most of their mon-

ey on?
I think people generally tend to spend a major part of their
money on items like electronic goods, cars, kitchen and
home items, clothes, cosmetics and jewellery.
3 Is increasing consumerism a good trend?

I think consumerism is a trend which has both pros and
cons. Among the advantages, the primary one is that it
boosts economic growth. The demand for goods and ser-
vices helps businesses to flourish and allows the economy
to grow. Also as consumers keep looking for better prod-
ucts, businesses need to bring greater innovation and cre-
ativity to design better products. However, on the flip side,
consumerism has huge environmental costs. As production
increases to meet demand, resources are consumed at a
faster pace and waste and pollution levels also rise.
4 Do you think it is important to save money?

Yes, absolutely. The future is unpredictable. Nobody can
foresee what might happen in the next second. Sometimes
people may lose jobs or they may have a hospital emer-
191
gency, while in other cases it may be a vehicle breakdown

requiring expensive repairs. When such emergency situa-
tions arise, savings can be a huge help. On the other hand,
if people have no money, it would add to the stress as they
would have to run from pillar to post to collect the needed
funds.
5 Why do people buy things they don’t need?

With modern day malls and supermarkets stocked with
a dazzling array of products, it is only natural that people
would be tempted to spend mindlessly. Along with that
many shops have irresistible offers like ‘Buy one, get one
free’ or ‘ 50% off’ which lures people into reckless spending.
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58 Describe a difficult thing you did

Say what it was
How did you complete it
Why it was difficult
And explain how you felt about doing it?
Sample Answer Binge watching:

watching multiple
A really challenging thing I did recently was to reset my episodes of a series
sleep schedule. Due to the long period of lockdown, I had or programme in
become used to sleeping late and rising late. succession
Binge watching web series on Netflix, scrolling through Onerous: difficult

social media and late night chatting with friends, meant that
sleep timing was getting extended to 1 or 2 am. Tweaking : changing
As lockdown restrictions were relaxed a few weeks back Early bird: a person
and the government announced reopening of colleges, I who rises early
was faced with the onerous task of tweaking my lifestyle morning
and getting back to the habit of waking up early.
Hard nut to crack:
I must say making a shift to an early bird lifestyle was a difficult task
hard nut to crack. The first week I set a target of getting to
bed by 11 and waking up by 6 am. I turned in by 11 but Turned in: went to bed
kept tossing and turning in bed for a long time.
Eluding: avoiding
Sleep kept eluding me. And when the alarm went off at 6
the next morning, I turned it off and didn’t wake up till about Endeavour: effort
9 am.
Distraught: extremely
The first few days of my new endeavour were a total upset
disaster. I realized the real battle was not waking up early,
but going to sleep on time. Starters: as first stage
Now I was hit by the seriousness of the situation. I was Recalibrate : change
distraught at the prospect of not being able to wake up
early and get to college on time. Cinch: easy
I turned to online resources for tips. After watching some

videos, I realized that the change could happen only grad-
ually. I set up more realistic bedtime and wake up goals. I
also made some serious alterations to my lifestyle.
193
For starters, I took some steps like having an early dinner, Starters: as first stage
turning down the lights, avoiding my phone and also cutting
down on coffee in the late evenings. Recalibrate : change
I also began to incorporate some workouts close to Cinch: easy

bedtime, so that I would be totally exhausted and would just
plop down on bed and go to sleep.
All this was not easy at all. I had to be disciplined and

consistent. My efforts paid off finally.
I managed to recalibrate my system, to get up early,

feeling fresh, while at the same time getting the sleep I
need. Now waking up early is a cinch.
Part 3
1 What kinds of jobs require people to be confident?

I think confidence is vital in all workplaces. From teachers
to doctors, almost all professions require people to have
confidence in their skills and abilities. Confidence and self
assurance are keys to success and high productivity. Con-
fident people would be able to stay calm when faced with
challenges and would be able to tackle them effectively.
Also I believe, confidence helps others trust you more easi-
ly and your views would be taken more seriously.
2 On what occasions should children be encouraged?

Children should be encouraged to be confident and strong.
They can be encouraged to try out new hobbies or learn
new skills. Some children may feel discouraged by poor
academic grades and a word of encouragement would be
of great help on such occasions.
3 How can you help children to stay focussed?

Children get distracted due to several factors. Minimising
these could help them concentrate better on their task. Dis-
tractions from mobile phone notifications or other electronic
gadgets are the most prominent. They may also be distract-
ed by noisy environments.
4 What challenges do young people face today?

Youngsters face various kinds of challenges.In academ-
194
ics they are faced with the huge syllabus and the cutthroat
competition to get into premier institutions. Socially young
people struggle for acceptance and approval and are con-
stantly making efforts to keep up to the standards of society.
Young people also face huge turmoil in relationships when
they fail to find trustworthy friends or an emotional support
system.
195
59 Describe a time you were friendly to some-

one you didn’t like
When and where it happened
Who he was
Why you didn’t like this person
And explain why you were friendly to him on that occasion
Sample Answer Cross paths with: meet
Along life’s road, we cross paths with different kinds of Put down: to insult
people. While some may be charming and likeable, there
may be others we may find hard to get along with. Uphill task: difficult task
Although we would definitely like to avoid such distasteful Riled up: Annoyed
people, it may not alway be possible to do so.
Poker faced: an
One such person I found difficult to deal with was my impassive expression
classmate Shilpa. I found her very snobbish and difficult.
She always felt that everyone else was beneath her and Exasperating : intensely
would put others down with rude remarks. frustrating
I always tried to avoid her. But one day my science teacher Grinding my teeth: being
put us together in a group for our project work. I was very angry
horrified at the prospect of working with her, but there was
no escape. Lauded: appreciated
Civility
The project was about the tribals in India. We had to divide
the work among the four of us in the group. Shilpa always
wanted her way and wanted to take all the decisions.
From the start, it was an uphill task adjusting with her

ridiculous ways. But I decided that I had to be tactful and
diplomatic and should try to ignore her irritating behaviour.
She never missed a chance to criticize my inputs and

ignore what I had to say. All this got me riled up, but I
made a conscious effort and let those feelings dissipate.
I tried to put on a poker face and focus on completing the

task. Although It was exasperating, I was just smiling with
my front teeth and grinding my back teeth.
196
Finally the project was over and it turned out well. While our
teacher appreciated our efforts, I lauded myself for getting
along with Shilpa with a fair degree of civility.
Part 3
1 Why are some people friendly with people they don’t like?
While some people are blunt and demonstrate their dislike
towards people, others may be more diplomatic and tend to
hide or mask their real feelings. Or maybe they are more
mature and accept that there will always be differences in
values and opinions, and personalities. Due to this open
minded attitude, they act with decorum towards people they
dislike.
2 What kind of people are usually friendly?

I think people who are amiable are usually pleasant and
warm. They like meeting people and are approachable.
They have the knack of putting people at ease and
genuinely care about others.
3 What is the difference between being friendly and polite?

Being polite means being well mannered in speech or ac-
tion. It means to be courteous and civil. I think this mostly
has to do with the outward behavior.
On the other hand, friendliness is a quality on the inside
of a person. Friendly people are caring and compassion-
ate. They have a genuine interest in others and are open
minded. I think both politeness and friendliness are vital life
skills.
4 What do you think about people who are always straight-

forward?
Personally I like straightforward people. They wear their
heart on their sleeves and never hesitate to speak the truth
however harsh it may be. They never feel the need to sugar
coat their words. I like such people because they are hon-
est and can always be trusted.
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60 Describe a plan in your life not related to

work or study
Say what it is
Why you made this plan
What you would need to do first
And explain how you would feel if it is successful
Sample Answer Nurtured: cared for
A plan that I have nurtured since a long time is to take part Outperforming:
in a marathon. I am an avid runner and have been jogging perform better than
for most of my life. I’ve found it very effective for staying fit
and healthy. Sparked my interest:
create interest
So running a marathon is a challenge that I would like to
take. All my running is limited to just a few rounds of a Perseverance : continued
nearby park. So running a 42 km marathon surely seems effort
impossible and scary, but it is something that I think will
push me out of my comfort zone
My interest in marathons began after I read an article about

animals and long distance running. To my surprise, humans
were ranked on top, second only to horses.
I couldn’t believe that my body was capable of

outperforming lions and tigers, when it came to long
distance running. I think that is what sparked my interest
in marathons. For the last few years I have been following
the marathons hosted in different cities.
The energy, the passion, the excitement I can see on the

faces of the runners, both men and women of all ages, is
truly inspiring.
I know this will require commitment and perseverance.

I will need to practice rigorously for my body to adapt to
running for longer duration.
I also need to research the different marathons and decide

one that would be appropriate for me and finally register for
it. I feel more than the physical preparation, I would need
to prepare myself mentally for the challenge.
198
Anxiety, self doubts and fear often tempt me to quit the Plagued by: troubled by
idea. I am often plagued by questions like - will I be able to
finish? What if I injure myself? So I need to conquer these
fears and push on.
I know crossing the finish line in a marathon will be a proud
moment for me. I will be proud that I was able to push my
boundaries and exceed my limits
Part 3
1 Do you think it is important for a person to have a career

plan?
Yes absolutely. Having a clear plan give you direction in life.
It helps you find the appropriate courses and skill sets you
need to acquire.Without a plan it is likely that we may fritter
away time unproductively and just stay in a rut. Plans, on
the other hand, keep us motivated and focussed.
2 How do people plan their education and career?

The first step that most people take while planning is to
understand their strengths, weaknesses, interests and
aptitude. They also do plenty of research on different job
profiles that match our interest, talk to professionals to un-
derstand the ground realities or seek guidance from career
experts.
3 Is salary an important factor while planning a career?

Definitely, money is an important part of career planning.
While job satisfaction is a crucial aspect, we also need fi-
nancial stability. With rising living costs, not having an ade-
quate source of income can be stressful. Beyond the basic
needs, money helps us enjoy life, have fun, travel, pursue
higher education and even make a difference to the lives of
other people.
199
61 Describe a person who solved a problem

in a smart way
Who this person is
What the problem was
How he/she solved it
And explain why you think he/she did it in a smart way
Sample Answer Ingenuity: cleverness
Life is beset with problems, big and small. But for every Incredibly: unbelievably
problem there are solutions if we think with ingenuity.
To a T: exactly
I would like to talk about a time when my friend helped me
find an incredibly clever solution to a problem I faced Heart sank: was
recently. disappointed
I had invited some of my friends for lunch and instead of Gone awry : went wrong
ordering food from a restaurant, I had decided to cook on
my own. My best friend Shyla had offered to help me. Awestruck: impressed
So we had decided on making biryani and in about 1 hour Astute: clever

it was ready. I also wanted to bake a cake. I had baked on a
few occasions and had come up with decent results. In deep waters: in great
trouble
So I hunted out a slightly more sophisticated cake recipe,
unlike the simpler ones I had tried before. I followed the Saved the day : some-
recipe to a T and soon I had the batter in the oven and sat thing that prevented a
waiting for my beautiful cake to be ready. defeat
Finally the timer went off. I took the cake out of the oven. Tide over: to survive
But when I saw it, my heart sank. It had burnt around the
edges and the middle had sunk. Instead of a lighty spongy Culinary : related to
cake, I had a flat hard one. I was heartbroken. cooking
My plans to impress my friends had gone awry. However,

strangely instead of panicking, Shyla kept her cool and
instantly came up with a brilliant idea to repair the damage.
She broke up the cake into little bits. Arranged them at the
bottom of a bowl, added a layer of whipped cream and then
toasted nuts and jam.
Then she repeated the layers till the bowl was full and
200
it was the best dessert. I was awestruck by her astute Awestruck: impressed
move. I knew I’d have been in deep waters, but thanks to
Shyla, the crisis was thwarted. Astute: clever
All my friends complimented me on the amazing dessert In deep waters: in great

and wanted the recipe. Shyla’s creativity saved the day trouble
and helped me tide over this mishap. I was deeply grateful
to Shyla for her creativity and quick thinking , which helped Saved the day : some-
transform a culinary disaster into something truly thing that prevented a
memorable. defeat
Tide over: to survive
Culinary : related to
cooking
Part 3
1 Are children born smart or do they learn to become

smart?
While I believe we inherit a certain degree of intelligence
from our parents, it can lie latent in us unless developed
fully with hard work and diligence. So genes and hard work
both go hand in hand.
2 How do children become smart at school?

At school, students study a variety of different subjects. Do-
ing Maths builds the IQ, while speaking,reading and writing
improves linguistic skills and the ability to communicate.
Performing group activities nurtures emotional intelligence
and social skills.
3 Why are some people well rounded while others are only
good at one thing?
Some people may put all their energy and effort into devel-
oping and honing one talent they have. Others may have a
broader range of interests and thus develop in a more well
rounded manner. There are schools which are focussed on
more holistic development of students and thus incorporate
a wide range of activities geared to nurture different types
of talents and skills. This would definitely help students to
be talented in multiple disciplines.
3 Why does modern society need talent of all kinds?

Society definitely needs a broad spectrum of talents. While
a company may need people talented in accounts, mar-
201
keting, advertising or decision making, the entertainment

industry needs people with talents like video creation, pho-
tography, story telling, music or dance. Being a good listen-
er, being persistent or friendly are also talents which are
vital in building harmonious societies.
202
62 Describe a useful or exciting book you

read
Say which it was
When you read it
What it was about
And why you found it exciting or useful
Sample Answer Captivating: attractive
I recently read the novel ‘Five Point Someone’ by the Drawbacks:

famous Indian novelist Chetan Bhagat. Frankly I am not disadvantages
very fond of reading but my friend recommended this novel
very strongly and it’s just about 300 pages.
So I decided to give it a try. Once I started reading, it was

so captivating that I couldn’t put it down. The novel is
about three friends Ryan, Alok and Hari who are studying in
IIT Delhi, which is one of the most prestigious engineering
colleges in India.
The story depicts how they struggle to cope up with the

highly competitive and stressful environment of the college.
There are several things I found really fascinating about this

novel. One is that we can easily connect with the
characters.They are so real.
The pressure they face is what every student experiences.

The frustration with the endless tutorials, lectures,
assignments, projects and exams is something we can
easily relate to.
Also the novel portrays the drawbacks of the education

system, which gives so much importance to marks. Ryan ,
Alik and Hari just score five points which is the lowest in the
college and they are labelled as useless and good for
nothing., when in fact they are bright and intelligent.
So the novel conveys the message that students can never

be judged on the basis of grades.
And life is not just about marks but friendships, having fun
203
with family, chasing our dreams and identifying and Engaging : interesting
nurturing our unique talents.
So I think Chetan Bhagat is an excellent storyteller. With an

easy, simple and flowing style.which makes the novel high-
ly entertaining, engaging and easy to read. I would
definitely like to read the other novels of this author.
Part 3
1 Do people in your country like to read?

The interest in reading is dwindling due to the lure of mod-
ern entertainment media like mobile games, social net-
working media etc. While the older generation is very inter-
ested to read in their leisure time, young people rarely take
it up as a hobby.
2 What kind of books are most popular in your country?

I think people mostly like to read fiction - such as short sto-
ries or novels wih family or romantic themes while there are
some who have a greater affinity towards murder mysteries
and detective novels.
3 .Can ebooks replace paper books?

Although e books may not entirely replace conventional
books, it is highly likely that their use will increase manifold
owing to their numerous merits. They are convenient to
carry, handle, store or distribute. Also they are eco friendly
unlike paper books which are made of pulp from trees.
4 What are the benefits of reading?

Reading offers multifarious benefits. It widens the horizons
of our mind and makes us more knowledgeable. It improves
attention span, concentration, imagination and also im-
proves language skills. Reading offers endless pleasure
and can be therapeutic.
204
63 Describe a difficult decision you once

made
What the decision was
When you made the decision
How long it took you to make the decision
And explain why it was a difficult decision to make
Sample Answer Fending for myself: take

care of yourself
It is said that the hardest choices require the strongest of without help from
wills. We all undergo numerous circumstances, where we anyone
are forced to make tough calls.
Cocoon: a safe place
One such instance that I clearly recall happened right
after my board exam results were declared. I had to decide Riddled: filled with
where I would do my undergraduate studies.
Deter: prevent
On one hand, I had the convenient choice of joining a
college in my hometown, staying in the comfort of my own Vacillates between: swing
home. On the other hand, moving to another city or between
country meant stepping into the unknown.
Springboard: launch
Faced with this difficult decision, I experienced many days pad
of internal dialogue. I kept listing the pros and cons of both
sides. Uncertainty and self doubt plagued me. Hapless: helpless
Talked to my family , friends and mentors.I listened to Metamorphosed:

everyone with an open mind and finally I got a better clarity transformed
of the situation and I made the decision to join a college in
Mumbai.
It meant I had to move away from Delhi, my home and

my parents and start from scratch fending for myself for
everything from accommodation to cooking. My instincts
screamed out against leaving my cocoon and the constant
presence of my friends.
I knew the days ahead would be riddled with problems and

challenges but I remained focussed and did not let anything
deter me.
I rid my mind of all limiting thoughts that were holding me

back from my dreams. I came to accept the fact that life is
205
a long journey of constant change and vacillates between

comfort and discomfort, pleasure and pain.
Today, I’m armed with a good degree, relevant qualification

and training that serves as a springboard to a bright fu-
ture.
Now I proudly boast of the decision I took at the cusp of my

career. From a hapless, shy, dependent, home food addict,
full of inadequacies to a confident , independent and
fearless person, I have come a long way indeed. I have
metamorphosed into a whole new person and that’s the
power of a right decision, though a difficult one.
Part 3
1 What kind of decisions do people make everyday?

People make small decisions as well as big life changing
ones in their day to day life. The decisions may be on triv-
ial matters like what to eat, which movie to watch, how to
spend their time etc. Or it could be on weightier matters
such as career choice, deciding on whom to marry, how to
invest money, relocating to another country etc.
2 Can children make their own decisions?

Yes children can be encouraged to make decisions in small
matters like what dress to wear, what game to play, which
toy to buy etc. Decision making is one of the most import-
ant skills children need to develop to become healthy and
mature adults.
3 Why do people change their decisions sometimes?

People may change decisions when they realize it was not
the right decision. Sometimes decisions are taken hastily,
without proper thinking or we may be unsure of our deci-
sion. Sometimes other people may influence us to rethink.
4 Why do people need to make decisions?

Decision making is inevitable in our life and almost every
second we are forced to make choices from the options
before us both big and small.
206
5 Which is easier, making a decision by one self or making

a decision after a group discussion?
I think that if leaders try to solicit the opinions of their team
members in all matters and then try to reach a consensus,
it can cause too much delay. However not consulting others
may adversely affect the trust of the team. Hence it is im-
portant to strike a balance between both these approaches,
where leaders should consult and get valid feedback, but at
the same time take decisions themselves.
207
64 Talk about an art or craft activity you had

at school
Say what you made
How you made it
What it looked like
And explain how you felt about this activity
Sample Answer Blur: unclear
Art and craft classes in school are a treasured memory for Vividly: clearly
me. We spent many delightful hours creating art with
materials like paper, clay, sand and play dough. Creases: folds
Among them the sessions that were very dear to my heart Misshapen: not having a
were the origami sessions in primary school. normal shape
Although most of my primary school is a blur, the origami Plain sailing: easy
classes are vividly alive in my memory. progress
I remember when our teacher transformed pieces of paper High-point: most

into different shapes like jet planes, finger puppets, dogs, exciting time
and cats we almost thought she had some magical powers.
It sparked our interest and we were all gung-ho about

learning the art.
I must confess we were all very clumsy in the beginning.

Our creases were not sharp, our folds often went wrong
and we ended up with misshapen figures.
Origami definitely requires patience and hard work, both of

which were not my strong attributes. But with some more
practice, the paper folding techniques were plain sailing.
Gradually origami sessions became the high point of my
day.
I attended them with zest and motivation to master the art.

We started with simple designs and slowly moved on to
more elaborate ones. I even won several prizes in the craft
competitions.
Even to this day I remember how to make many of those

origami models and I have taught them to many. I also find
208
them quite handy when I am around children, especially Handy : useful

my nephews and nieces.
I love to get some sheets of paper and quickly turn them

into tulips, birds, cats and then see their eyes go wide with
wonder and excitement. This easy and inexpensive craft I
learnt in my childhood, is a source of fun and relaxation to
this day.
Part 3
1 Do people in your country give handicrafts as gifts?

Gifts are an integral part of our culture. I think most peo-
ple give store bought gifts. On the other hand, we can view
children making efforts to make gifts from scratch for their
dearest. They make items like photo collages, handmade
flowers etc. I believe handicraft gifts add a personal touch. It
shows you have dedicated your time for the gift.
2 What do young people think about traditional handicrafts?

I think young people are quite appreciative of traditional
handicrafts and believe they should be preserved. Many
choose to buy handicraft products to support the economy.
There are many NGOs started by young people to preserve
several traditional handicraft skills.
3 Should art be a compulsory subject in schools?

Absolutely. One proven stress buster is to express yourself
creatively. There is no better medium than art to portray
an individual’s creativity. Art classes lay the foundation for
a child’s emotional intelligence which cannot be achieved
through math or science classes. Art is also a way of foster-
ing creative thinking and imagination, which drives all inno-
vation. Additionally, art classes aid in evolving skills which
are crucial in life like social skills, decision making, motor
skills and presentation skills.
4 How can we make young people more interested in tradi-

tional art?
I think introducing traditional art in the school curriculum
would be an effective way to ignite their interest. Taking stu-
dents on trips to villages to observe artisans and craftsmen
engaged in this art could also fuel an interest in it. Arrang-
209
ing exhibitions and shows depicting traditional art can be

yet another way to expose them to the beauty and time-
lessness of such art.
5 Why do some people find it difficult to understand works

of art?
I think it is mostly in the case of modern art that people find
it difficult to interpret what the artists are trying to express.
Modern art tends to be more abstract and what we see on
canvas may not be actual representations of things around
us. However portraits or still life paintings are more realistic
and hence very clear to the viewer.
210
65 Describe an article you have read about

health
Say what it was about
When and where you read it
Sample Answer Informative: giving lot

of information
I read an interesting and informative article recently on the
importance of sleep and I’d like to talk to you about it. Piqued: aroused
It was my grandfather who showed me this article in a Deprivation: lack

magazine, probably because he had noticed that I stayed
up late, when I was in his house a few months back. Skimping: to give
insufficient attention to
The article was based on an interview with Arianna
Huffington who wrote a book called ‘The Sleep Revolution.’ Deficit: lack or
The article was boring initially but as I continued reading, it deficiency
piqued my interest.
The article explained how sleep quality and duration is

directly linked to our physical and mental health. I was
surprised to read that sleep deprivation is the major cause
of health disorders such as diabetes and heart disease.
Skimping on sleep can also cause mental health issues

such as anxiety and depression and a good night’s sleep
is essential for maintaining a healthy and calm mood and
being productive.
The article included a lot of findings from various studies

and showed how most people get less than six hours of
sleep nowadays when the required amount for adults is 7 to
8 hours.
The article made a lot of sense to me. I could notice how

the sleep deficit was impairing my own performance.
I realised that I had seriously neglected this aspect as I also

stayed up late nights with my mobile phone. I believe that
although we all know the importance of a nutritious diet and
regular exercise, sleep is an often neglected component of
good health.
211
I managed to find the digital version of this article and sent

it to all my friends and I also shared it on social media
platforms. This article overhauled my approach to sleep
and I began to give greater priority to it.
Part 3
1 What are the things people do to maintain good health?

Now there is much more awareness regarding a healthy
lifestyle. One thing people focus on is a nutritious diet
which includes plenty of vegetables and fruits They cut
down on fatty and processed food and junk food and tend
to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated also make sure
they do something to exercises
2 What can you say about the health status of people to-
day?
There is an increase in the number of people suffering from
disorders such as diabetes, high blood pressure obesity
and sleep disorders These are due to poor dietary choices,
sedentary lifestyle and high stress conditions. On the other
hand, the lifespan of people has increased due to medical
advances and better nutrition.
3 Do people read a lot of magazines nowadays?

Well magazine readership seems to have declined. Very
few people opt to buy magazines because they prefer to
read online.
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66 Describe a time when you woke up

extremely early
When it happened
Why you woke up early
What you did
Sample Answer Nightowl: a person

who is habitually
I must confess I’ m not an early riser. I’ve been more of a active or wakeful at
night owl all my life and dragging myself out of bed early in night
the morning is a difficult and dreadful thing for me.
Contrary: opposite in
But a few months back I happened to wake up early, nature, direction or
contrary to my usual routine and I’d like to talk to you meaning
about it.
Blissful: extremely
My friends and I had gone on a trip to Munnar and while happy
we were there, we decided to experience the famous
sunrise at the Kollugumala hills. Glorious: having a
striking beauty
Our guide told us that we would have to start from our hotel
at 3.30 in the morning to reach the sunrise point. We set Crisp air: air that is
our alarms at 3. cold, dry or fresh
Needless to say, when the alarm went off, shaking me out

of my blissful sleep, my first impulse was to switch it off
and go back to sleep. But the thought of the glorious
sunrise made me jump out of bed. We had a cup of black
coffee and set off.
It was still dark and totally quiet and peaceful outside and
during the drive I felt very drowsy and I kept dozing off.
However, once we began to climb up the mountain, the
bumpy ride through the rocks completely knocked off my
sleepiness.
So by the time we reached the mountain top I was wide

awake and fresh. The air was crisp and cold.I could see
the town below still asleep and the street lights scattered
around like tiny stars.
The serene morning ambience was a rare experience for

213
me. We sat in silence and watched the sky change. There

was yellow, orange, vermillion red and all these rich colours
spread across the sky.
I watched the bright red sun ascend the horizon. It was a
stunning view. As I sat there soaking in the beauty of the
morning, I realized there’s something very magical and
Part 3
1 Why do people wake up early?

Early risers probably like to get a head start during the
day. Waking up early allows them to finish their day’s work
faster. Some like to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the
morning atmosphere or take a walk or do some yoga early
in the morning.
2 In what kind of situations do people need to arrive early?

I think people need to arrive ahead of schedule for import-
ant meetings, interviews or other such appointments. It is
always advisable to arrive beforehand rather than be late.
Also arriving at a good time for big events or shows can
ensure that we get better seats.
3 Why do some people like to stay up late?

Some people are most productive and concentrated at
night. They can achieve much better outputs when they
stay up late rather than when they rise early. There are
many students who are night owls and prefer to study
through the night as well as adults who achieve much more
working late nights.
214
67 Describe a time you bought something

from a street market
What it was
When it was
Where the market was
Sample Answer Crammed: Full of
Street markets are my favourite places to hang out with Captivating: attractive
my friends. One market that I frequently visit is the bustling
Sarojini Nagar Market, just about 10 kilometers from my Scout around: search
house.
The place is crammed with shops selling a huge variety

of items, from trendy outfits, classy footwear to electronic
gadgets and everything at unbelievable prices.Often during
these visits I end up getting some attractive deals.
Recently as I strolled through the narrow crowded lanes of

the market, a terracotta wind chime caught my attention. It
was quite captivating.
I am a huge fan of terracotta items. I have numerous items

like planters, wall hangings and table pieces. This particular
piece was a delicately hand crafted and hand painted one
in bright maroon and yellow colours.
It had a loop on the top from where it could be hung . I

instantly decided to purchase it and got ready for some
serious bargaining.
The shopkeeper asked for Rs 800, but with my superb

bargaining skill, I was able to slash it down to Rs 450.
Once I got back home, I began to scout around for the

best place to hang it. Ideally I wanted a place where it could
catch the breeze and chime.
So I decided to hang it in our garden so that the vibrant

colours stand out amid the foliage. It is a perfect place for
the wind chime, as it is not just visually pleasing but also
fills the air with the sweet delightful jingling sound.
215
Every time a nice breeze comes, I eagerly wait for the Enamoured: impressed
symphony to start. I must say, I am quite proud of this new
garden accessory. Wow factor : an
impressive quality
When visitors drop by, they are completely enamoured by
its exotic look. It gives a wow factor to my garden. I always
believe that decorating our homes with handicrafts not only
adds a good vibe to the space but also a traditional and
ethnic touch.
Part 3
1 What kinds of markets are there in India?
I think in India there are various kinds of markets that form

an integral part of the local economy. There are weekly
markets on specific days in a week with temporary shops
selling mostly groceries,vegetables, cloth items or uten-
sils. There are also shops in every neighbourhood close
to residential areas, where people can buy items like milk,
stationery, groceries or eatbles for daily use conveniently.
Shopping complexes or malls are common in urban areas
mostly selling high end branded items. Street markets are
yet another type of markets which are bustling chaotic plac-
es selling a wide range of items such as local handicrafts,
street food or accessories at super cheap rates.
2 Do you think small markets will disappear in the future?

I think the emergence of malls and supermarkets has
made this question relevant today. These places are attrac-
tive and appealing for the ambiance and convenience they
offer. However I believe they can never supersede small
shops. There are wide sections of society who would al-
ways prefer small shops. The items are relatively cheaper
and there is a closer bond that customers develop with
small shop owners through shopping over the years. So I
believe small markets will continue to coexist with malls,
super markets and e stores.
3 How have people’s shopping habits changed in recent

years?
216
I think the most significant shift is that shopping has evolved

from being a need based activity to something people do
for fun and relaxation. It is very common for people today
to go shopping just for pleasure and purchase things on an
impulse. In other words, the levels of consumption today are
far higher than in the days of our thrifty older generations.
Also the trend of online shopping is picking up at a furious
pace, with perks such as convenience, discounts, fast ship-
ping and wider options.
4 What are the differences between shopping in street mar-

kets and big malls?
Malls offer a wide range of high end, high quality branded
merchandise under one roof. They are centrally air con-
ditioned and come with entertainment facilities such as
theatres, gaming zones and food stalls. They create a wel-
coming ambiance where families can spend an entire day
shopping, eating or watching movies. However the products
are quite exorbitantly priced and hence not affordable to ev-
eryone. Street markets, on the other hand, offer items at dirt
cheap rates. Also street markets exhibit the ethnic image of
an area, unlike malls which house international brands. For
many people enjoying the hullabaloo of the market, gorging
on delicious street food and landing some great deals are
the charms of a street market that malls can never match.
217
68 Describe a time you were waiting for

something special that would happen
What you waited for
Where you waited
Why it was special
And explain how you felt when you were waiting
Sample Answer Thrilled to pieces:

very excited
Something special that I awaited eagerly was a get together
with my old school friends. Staying cooped up at home for Glad tidings: good
months was quite stressful for me. news
Our homes were no longer spaces where we once relaxed Stand the test of time:
and spent quality time with our families. Our bedrooms were to work well over a
now gyms, our living and dining rooms, classrooms or work long period of time
from home stations.
Exhilarating:
So when eventually covid cases began to dwindle, I heaved thrilling
a sigh of relief. It was when life was limping back to
normalcy, I got a call from my friend Angeline who is Aflutter: nervous
currently in the US saying that she was coming on a and excited
holiday. I was thrilled to pieces on hearing the glad
tidings. Took precedence:
became more
This news was almost unbelievable. We decided to contact important
our other gang members. We were four friends right from
our school days. Rummaging:
searching
We used to do everything together, from preparing for
exams and shopping to bunking classes and playing
pranks on others. We were all in different places but still our
friendship had stood the test of time.
Video chats, texting, sharing pictures on social media and

occasional get-togethers kept our bond intact.
Now the prospect of meeting everyone after a long time

was too exhilarating for words.My mind was filled with
anticipation and my heart was aflutter.
All of us were buzzing with excitement, planning all the

details of the reunion. We were planning a whole weekend
218
of activities. The countdown had started, but time seemed

to be going slowly.
I couldn’t think of anything else. Our reunion took

precedence over everything. I was on my feet, planning,
dreaming, making arrangements, rummaging through my
cupboard in search of outfits to wear and buying gifts . I
could hardly contain the excitement of it all.
Finally the wait was over but I must say the longer the wait,
the more we appreciate and treasure it when it arrives. That
special day was truly worth the wait.
Part 3
1 On what occasions do people usually need to wait?

People need to wait for buses, trains or flights. Sometimes
they need to wait to receive a product after placing an order
for it. After exams or an interview, there is a long and tense
wait for the results. Cash counters at supermarkets are also
places where waiting is unavoidable.
2 Who behaves better when waiting - children or adults?

Generally adults are more patient when they need to wait.
Children tend to get impatient faster. They get easily an-
noyed, frustrated and tend to complain about the delay.
3 Compared to the past, are people less patient now?

I think people today want instant gratification. In the age of
instant connectivity, instant streaming,instant noodles and
instant delivery, the word instant has become so much a
part of people’s lives, that if things don’t happen instantly,
they become restless and intolerant.
219
69 Describe a creative person whose work

you admire
Say who he is
How you know him
What creative things he/she has done
And explain why you think he or she is creative
Sample Answer Wonderstruck: a

feeling of delight or
A person who has oodles of creativity is my neighbour admiration
Sheila. Sheila and her family had just moved into our
neighbourhood a few years back and so one day I decided Spectacular:
to pay my new neighbours a visit. impressive
The moment I stepped into their house I was Awestruck: filled with
wonderstruck by the charming interior decor. The living admiration or respect
room was tastefully decorated with paintings, indoor plants
and small handicraft items. Meticulous:
extremely careful
I came to know that Sheela is an art teacher in a nearby
school and she herself had created all the beautiful art Intrigued: interested
works showcased in that room.
Downtime: free time
She had transformed her home into a mini gallery, where
she displayed a wide variety of her spectacular handwork. Metamorphose: to
There were beautiful wind chimes, dream catchers, hand change into a
painted bottles and home made planters. completely different
form
I was awestruck by the stunning creativity, the meticulous
work and intricate designs.
Since I also have an eye for creativity, I am always

intrigued by her creations.I find them truly mesmerising.
I was so fascinated by her creative ideas and aesthetic
sense that I am now a regular visitor at their house.
Whenever she gets some downtime, she takes out her

craft supplies and gets working. With her creative juices
flowing, she gives a unique spin to mundane materials or
waste items like beer cans, cardboard or plastic bottles .
Her creativity never fails to surprise me.
220
Recently I saw beautiful earrings and bracelets she had

made for her daughter using buttons.
Coconut shells invariably find their way to the trash bins in

every household. But for Sheila they are raw materials with
huge possibilities and in her hands they metamorphose
into beautiful craft products. I can say I am a huge fan of
Sheila and her creativity fascinates me no end.
Part 3
1 Do you think you are a creative person?

Yes I think I am a person with creative ideas. I can think of
new ways to do things like decorating my room or working
out solutions to problems. I think I am able to think out of
the box.
2 Is it good for children to learn arts?

I think it is vital for children to get involved in the arts. When
children draw pictures, use colours, enact plays or make
clay models, they are encouraged to create, design and
generate new ideas. It is a fact that advances and inno-
vations in all fields such as technology, architecture or
even medicine are fuelled by such out of the box thinking.
Hence art can act as a catalyst in moulding creating origi-
nal thinkers.
3 What kind of jobs require people to be creative?

There are various jobs that require high levels of creativity.
These include jobs of film and video editors, website devel-
opers, graphic designers, product designers and architects.
In all these fields, people need to generate original ideas,
designs or plans. They need to be inventive and original.
4 Do you think leaders need to have creative ability?

Yes, I believe a certain degree of creative thinking is vital
in leadership. This can help them find innovative solutions
to problems companies face and come up with new ideas..
They can convert challenges into opportunities, improve
products and services, understand customer needs better
with a creative mindset.
221
70 Describe a cafe you like to visit

Say where is it?
What kinds of foods and drinks it serves
What do you do there?
And explain why you like to go there?
Sample Answer Charming : Beautiful
One of the most charming cafes that I have ever visited is Blown away: Very im-
the Cha Bar in Delhi. It is a bookstore and cafe rolled into pressed
one.
Hideout: a place of
I had gone to the Oxford bookstore hunting for a book a retreat
few years back, when I stumbled upon this cosy little cafe
tucked between the bookshelves. I was totally blown away Delectable: tasty
by this new concept of bookstore cafe, which is catching up
quite fast in cities all over India. Genres: types
These bookstore cafes offer booklovers a charming Captivating: stunning

hideout to bury themselves in their favourite books and get
some precious me time. Enticing: attractive
And of course as they sit and read they can enjoy the Vibes: atmosphere
delectable delicacies and sip hot coffee. The items on the
menu are limited but delicious. What an awesome
combination of books,coffee and snacks!
For me spending time here is sheer bliss. The Oxford

bookstore has floor to ceiling shelves lined with books on
almost every genre, ranging from autobiographies to
mythology. There is fiction and nonfiction by Indian as well
as international authors.
The tastefully done interiors, the captivating artworks in

the walls and the brightly coloured walls create a vibrant
ambiance. Although there is the hustle and bustle of the
city outside, the cafe is quiet and peaceful .
Once we are inside, we are hit by the enticing smell of old

books, baked goodies and espresso coffee.
The staff is courteous and friendly and the cafe always has
welcoming and heartwarming vibes.
222
I visit this place very often. I head straight to the rows of

books and once I get the book of my choice, I can flop
down on one of the squishy cushions or the bean bags and
order a plate of crispy chilli potato or choco chip cookies
with a cup of hot steaming coffee.
I can eat, drink and read to my heart’s content with no one

disturbing or interrupting me.
As a book lover, this place is a dream come true for me,

truly a book lover’s paradise.
Part 3
1 What kind of people like to go to a cafe?

I think millennials and Gen Zers are most likely visitors
to cafes. They love to hangout in such places with their
friends.
2 Why do young people like studying in a cafe instead of at

home?
One reason for this is that it is an ideal space for undis-
turbed study. There are no distractions from family, visitors,
the television and so on. Another reason could be that be-
ing surrounded by young people and the vibrant ambiance
make cafes a pleasant and delightful alternative to being
cooped up at home.
3 Do Indian people like to drink coffee?

I think coffee is a staple beverage of South India. South
Indians typically begin their day with a hot cup of filter cof-
fee, which is an amazing rich milky brew made of infusing
frothy milk with a coffee decoction. Some have coffee at
least twice or thrice a day, while others may have it more
frequently.
223
71 Describe someone older than you, whom

you admire
Say who this person is
How you know this person
What kind of things you like to do together
Explain how you feel about this person
Sample Answer Stern: strict
Family is the foremost space from which we draw No nonsense: straight-

inspiration that eventually shapes our personalities. forward
I, for one, have always found that in my father throughout
the years. Look up to: respect
His name is Mr Babu Joseph and he is a 66 years old Regaling : entertaining

retired Accounts Manager with a handsome face, salt and
pepper hair, and a sweet smile. He has a pleasing Make it big: become
demeanour and is also very soft spoken yet at the same successful
time, he is stern and a no-nonsense person.
Perseverance : hard
I have always looked up to him since my childhood as he work
has been more of a friend to me. We have shared a lot of
amusing instances and moments with productive talks Flaws: defects
especially when he used to drive me to school everyday.
Bouts: short periods of
He finds immense pride in regaling me with his struggles
and hardship of living in a small village with minimal
prospects and making it big through his hardwork and
perseverance.
He always advises me about the importance of maintaining

strong relationships and being responsible. More than
anything he would emphasise on living life in the moment
and being content with even the smallest of things life gives
you.
My father also exhibits a very dynamic persona as he has

active involvement in various committees and events other
than the ones pertaining to his work. It inspires a sense of
awe in me to see how respected he is in all spaces and I
too aspire to be like him.
Like all humans he too is not devoid of flaws. He has bouts

224
of short-temperedness and I have seen him lose his cool

on a few occasions.
However he bounces back and is quick to make amends.
My father is truly my hero.
Part 3
1 What can young and old learn from each other?

I believe there are valuable insights both generations can
gain from each other. The young generation can learn
wisdom and life lessons, which the elderly have gained
through their life experiences - their trials, setbacks and
triumphs. They can also understand the family history , sto-
ries about their ancestors, traditions and rituals.
On the other hand, the older members can gain immensely
by learning the basics of new technologies and skills from
young people. They can understand the changes happen-
ing around them and the beliefs and views of young people.
2 Has old people’s quality of life improved when compared

to the past?
I believe the elderly enjoy a positive quality of life compared
to the past. Advanced medical facilities and treatments
allow them to lead longer healthier lives. Along with their
medical needs, I believe their mental emotional needs are
also met adequately these days. There are numerous lei-
sure centres where they can meet and interact with each
other. Also improved financial security and social lives
have improved significantly, making retired life a fulfilling
time for the aged. Technological advancements help se-
niors to keep in touch with loved ones and thus alleviate
loneliness.
3 Why is there a generation gap between the young and

the old?
The generation gap is an unavoidable reality which often
hampers intergenerational relationships. This gap is often
due to differing perspectives, views and opinions. The areas
of differences are mostly seen in areas such as interests,
tastes, moral values, religious beliefs.
225
4 What do old people usually do?
Many elderly people find themselves unable to be very

active due to health problems. Others however remain busy
physically and mentally. They prefer activities like watching
television, gardening, cooking or playing with their grand-
children.
226
72 Describe a town or city you would like to

live in the future
Where it is
What it is famous for
And explain why you would like to live there
Sample Answer Loquacious: talkative
The city where I dream of living is New York. I was Melting pot: place
introduced to the city through one of my childhood friends, where people of
Harkiran who moved to the city for her graduation. different cultures live
together
Normally she is a quiet person but she becomes
loquacious when asked about the city. Open minded:
receptive to different
New York, or The Big Apple was named as the most views
exciting city in the world recently by a global magazine.
The most striking quality of this city is its ethnic diversity. Hub: centre
This city is known as the melting pot of America with

more than 800 languages spoken there. There are
immigrants from different countries with their own New York
story.
This is one point of attraction for me personally, I believe if

you live with people from varied backgrounds, you can
understand, appreciate and respect other cultures, as well
as be more open minded.
New York has also plenty to offer on a cultural level. There

are magnificent museums, theatres, music ,opera, acres
and acres of parks and vast grounds.
There are also the iconic and historical landmarks such

as The Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, St.
Patrick’s Cathedral and the Grand Central Station. We can
attend a concert, ride a bicycle through the vast open
spaces or go on picnics.
There is always something to see or do in this city that

never sleeps. It is also supposed to be a foodie’s paradise
with about 25,000 restaurants serving nearly 60
227
international cuisines. Mundane: dull

It is a hub of business, fashion, entertainment and
technology, with vast job opportunities. So truly life is never Metropolis: large city
mundane in this exciting metropolis.
Part 3
1 Why are people attracted to cities?

I believe the chief reason people opt for city life is that they
are social and financial hubs. People can access better job
opportunities. Eventually it leads to quality of life which en-
compasses better living standards, healthcare systems and
top notch school and university education.
2 What are the differences between the young and old with
regard to choosing a place to live?
The general consensus is that old people or retired people
seek to live in a quiet neighbourhood, whereas young peo-
ple would prefer to live in a thriving locality with lots of op-
tions. Young adults choose to live in a city where an ample
amount of professional opportunities present themselves.
On the other hand, seniors favour the tranquility and calm
of the countryside.
3 Which is better, living in one place all our life or living in

different places ?
For me, living in different places throughout our life is more
beneficial and exciting. Firstly it would give wider opportu-
nities for professional development and personal growth.
Furthermore, shifting to a new place is exciting as it is an
unknown and unfamiliar area that you can explore. New
places also give you a chance to interact with different
communities, cultures and people.
228
73 Describe a foreign person you have heard

about or known who you think is interesting
Say who the person is
What kind of person he is
And explain why you think he/she is interesting
Sample Answer Penchant: a strong

liking
The world is filled with people who fascinate us with their
lives and tales and for me one such person is Robert Versatile: good at
Downey Jr. many things
He is an American actor and producer, who rose to the Sass: boldness

heights of fame and is today one of the biggest and most
beloved stars in the world through his portrayal of Tony Incarcerated: put in
Stark in Iron man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I, prison
myself, began to have a strong penchant towards him ever
since I saw the first Iron man movie.
Since then I have become a huge fan of his. He is an

amazing and versatile actor. I am awestruck by his charm,
sass and naturality.
I feel he is one of the key reasons why Marvel studio

movies have been so successful, especially the Avengers
Endgame, which broke records in almost all countries.
Although RDJ , as he is commonly called, is hugely

successful today, what people don’t know about him is his
struggles with drug addiction.
Way back in the 1990’s he got into a lot of trouble. He was

even incarcerated and this brought his career to a
standstill.
He lost big budget projects under prominent banners.

However he overcame his addiction and even managed to
get a few minor roles in movies and finally in 2008, he got a
lead role in Iron man and from there it was blockbuster after
blockbuster.
229
So what I love about RDJ is not just his talent and charisma Bleak: gloomy,
but his ability to rise from the ashes.He did not quit when disappointing
things looked bleak.
He was able to get back on his feet and get his life and
career on track. His life journey teaches me that no matter
what adversities you face, it is never too late to turn your life
around and become the best possible version of yourself.
I cannot help but feel an immense sense of admiration

and respect for this amazing actor.
Part 3
1 Do you have any foreign friends and do you think having

foreign friends is a good way to know about other coun-
tries?
Yes, I have a few international friends from countries like
the US and Spain. I think they help us get insights into their
culture, cuisine, traditions and tourist spots in their country.
We also end up learning a few bits and pieces of their lan-
guage.
2 Do you think it’s important to know the culture and lan-

guage before going to another country?
I don’t think it is necessary to get information about aspects
like culture and language of a country we plan to visit. How-
ever I believe doing some research on what to expect in
terms of food, weather, hotels etc.would be useful. We can
also avoid being cheated by the locals. It also helps us plan
our itinerary more effectively.
3 What do you think of people who work in international

companies?
Global multinational companies hire the best talents. These
companies not just look for niche skills and abilities but
also soft skills such as team spirit and communication. So
I think the employees in such workplaces would be people
who are qualified and have well developed personalities.
4 What abilities do people need to have when working in an

international company?
Multinational companies often have people of multiple cul-
tures working together. Hence it is vital to be culturally sen-
230
sitive. People should be able to embrace the diversities and

be open minded and tolerant. Respecting others and their
traditions helps create trust and harmony.
231
74 Describe an activity that you do after

school/work
Say what it is
When you do it
How often you do it
And explain why you like this activity
Sample Answer Hooked on: addicted

to
A fun pastime for me is playing Sudoku. I have always been
a fan of puzzles. Right from my childhood, I found all types Insurmountable : hard
of puzzles irresistible, from simple jigsaw, crossword or to overcome
math puzzles to more complex ones.
Stumped: unable to
I would spend lots of time in the evenings or weekends answer
working them out. To take on the challenge of solving them,
applying your logic, reasoning and critical thinking and then Fathom: understand
finally cracking it, is fun and exciting.
Clear my head: relax
Among all the different puzzles, my favourite is the to be able to think
Sudoku. I came across this puzzle in The Hindu a few clearly
years back, and began solving it. I must say once I started
playing it, I got hooked on it.
The Sudoku is a popular number puzzle with a square grid

which has nine rows and nine columns. The challenge is to
fill the grid with numbers such that the numbers 1 to 9
appear in each row and column only once.
The puzzle comes with a few spaces already filled in.The

tougher puzzles have very few numbers filled in.
There are several levels of Sudoku.
The ones in the newspaper were quite easy but there are
also really difficult puzzles that are almost
insurmountable. Sometimes I get totally stumped and
unable to fathom the solution and such occasions can be
really frustrating.
Often I take a break, clear my head and come back to it

and keep trying till I solve it. Sometimes it takes one or two
hours to solve the really tough ones and my office work
232
tends to suffer. But perseverance always pays and I am Downtime: freetime

finally able to crack them.
Put on my thinking cap:
Sudoku is available online . I have also downloaded a to think
Sudoku app with thousands of puzzles of five difficulty
levels.Whenever I get some moments of downtime, I whip
out my phone, put on my thinking cap and get started on
another brain workout.
I think working out these puzzles invariably lifts my spirits

and cheers me up. The sense of accomplishment it gives
when I successfully crack them is beyond description.
Part 3
1 Why do some people enjoy extreme sports?

I know there are many people who are daring enough to
try dangerous sports like bungee jumping, base jumping,
kayaking etc. They do these sports for the excitement, the
adrenaline rush and the thrill it gives. They like to push their
limits and face their fears. Probably it gives them great sat-
isfaction to accomplish dangerous feats. However I find
them too scary. Just the very thought of jumping out of an
airplane or off a cliff gives me goosebumps.
2 Are men more likely to do adventure sports than women?

Although earlier adventure sports was considered the realm
of men, today I think both genders equally participate in
them. I have read about many women who are defying
stereotypes and trying sports like paragliding, white water
rafting, rock climbing and I think they will inspire many more
women to follow suit.
3 What are some popular outdoor activities in India?

In India I think most common outdoor recreational activities
include trekking, hiking and camping. Young people love to
go on long bike rides. Photography and bird watching are
also activities many people are interested in. If there are
water bodies, fishing, swimming or boating are also delight-
ful activities people like to do.
233
75 Describe a piece of equipment that is

important in your home
Say what it is
When you bought it
What you use it for
And explain why it is important for you
Sample Answer A piece of cake:

something that can
I think if we were to make a list of household devices that be done easily
enhance our lives, it would be pretty long. From the small
alarm clock that wakes us up, to the washing machine that Suspect: what cannot
makes cleaning dirty laundry a piece of cake, every piece be trusted
of equipment plays a key role in our lives today.
At bay: keep away
I’d like to talk about one such vital appliance and it’s the
water purifier. Overwhelmed:
completely overcome
We have a wall mounted Kent RO purifier. We bought this in mind
about four years back and I must say it was one of the
smartest purchases that we made. At a loss: not knowing
what to do
The quality of tap water in our area has always been
suspect and so my mother used to boil water before using
it for cooking or drinking. It was a tedious and time
consuming process and was not always practical.
We also experimented with bottled drinking water, which

was too costly.
But thanks to technology, today we have a much better

solution for accessing pure, clean and healthy drinking
water. Water purifiers are truly a blessing and our most
trusted partners in keeping many water borne diseases
at bay.
I remember when we decided to purchase one, we were

quite overwhelmed by the wide range of options available.
There were so many brands and so many types that we
were completely at a loss.
They come with assorted different features to suit different
234
types of water. After some research on the different func-

tions that these purifiers perform, we decided to purchase
a Kent RO purifier, which not just removes microbes, but
also chemicals and other contaminants.
On the other hand, boiling water only kills the microorgan-

isms, but doesn’t remove heavy metal from water, making it
unsafe for consumption.
This appliance was not heavy on the pocket, but quite rea-
sonably priced. It also came with a warranty, making re-
pairs easy and affordable.
So finally today we have a highly efficient and cost effective

means to access clean and pure drinking water at all times.
Part 3
1 How do you think modern technology has changed the

way we work?
Technology has revolutionized all aspects of life today and
the workplace is no exception. Technology gives tools and
resources to work more efficiently and with greater speeds,
Messages can be sent instantly to clients across the world
and teams spread in different countries can work collab-
oratively through video conferencing or cloud based file
sharing tools. Working remotely or telecommuting has also
become a possibility today.
2 Do you think operating equipment at work can even have

some bad effects on the body?
There are several types of equipment and machinery in
factories and industries and operating them can pose
health and safety risks. High levels of noise or polluted air
can pose serious health risks. Handling of equipment can
affect the back, limb joints or muscles. Sometimes there are
also risks of injuries.
3 Do you think it is important for employees in industry to

be trained to use the equipment at work?
I think it is mandatory to instruct and train employees in the
use of all types of equipment . They will be able to carry out
their tasks safely and without risks to health. They should
be given clear instructions and guidelines to identify
235
hazards, understand warning signs and how to use protec-

tive gear.
4 Do you agree that older people have difficulties in using

modern equipment?
I think seniors struggle with modern devices. They feel
intimidated by them and think they are very complicated.
They fear that they will make mistakes and mess up every-
thing. Difficulties may also arise due to physical hindrances
like weak eyesight , unsteady hands or poor memory.
5 Are there any disadvantages of using modern equipment

too much in the home?
Although modern advancements usher in ease and con-
venience, there is a downside of being over dependent on
them. Labour saving devices such as washing machines
and vacuum cleaners make life sedentary, while the mobile
phone usage can almost become addictive. Use of calcula-
tors for every calculation can make our brains weaker and
reduce cognitive skills.
236
76 Describe a place you visited on vacation

Say where it is
When you went there
What you did there
And explain why you went there
Sample Answer Stunning: attractive
A stunning getaway that I visited a few years back was Getaway : an esape
Munnar. It is a picturesque hill station in Kerala and one of
the most popular destinations in South India. I went there Mist Clad: covered with
with my family during the Christmas holidays. mist
Mist clad mountains, rivers that look like silver ribbons, Sprawling : spread out
sprawling tea plantations and gurgling waterfalls, make
this place, one of the most charming destinations. Picturesque : attractive
We stayed in Munnar for 3 days . The weather was cool

and charming and it was the perfect time to visit Munnar.
There are numerous places for sightseeing and a host of
things to do in and around Munnar, so every minute there
was packed with fun and excitement.
I thoroughly enjoyed trekking up the enchanting mountain

trails. We trekked to a place called Echo point.
When we reached the top, we were able to enjoy some

stunning views and we had fun listening to our echo as we
shouted and screamed.
Another captivating place to visit in Munnar is the

Eravikulam National Park.
This wildlife sanctuary is famous for the highly endangered

species called the Nilgiri Tahr. We also visited a spice
garden where we got an insight into how cardamom, ginger
and turmeric are cultivated.
Visits to tea factories are also an integral part of the

itinerary. Our guide arranged jeeps for us to travel up the
bumpy roads to the factory.
There we saw how the freshly plucked tea leaves from the
plantations are processed into the tea we get at the market.
237
I was very excited to meet the plantation workers, who Picturesque : attractive
explained to me how they picked the leaves by hand.
This trip was truly memorable for me. The picturesque

beauty of this place refreshed and rejuvenated me. I carried
back some of the most beautiful memories of this trip.
Part 3
1 What are some popular attractions in your country?

India boasts of a wide range of tourist attractions. There are
historical places and world heritage sites for history lovers
such as the Taj Mahal and Red Fort. For adventurous tour-
ists, India has the most charming hill stations , sea beach-
es, coastlines, forests, lakes and rivers. Places like Shimla
have mist clad mountain ranges and wonderful lakes. Ker-
ala has a long coastline with spectacular beaches. For
wildlife buffs there are national parks like the Jim Corbetter
Reserve and Ranthambore. National Park.
2 Do Indian people like to travel abroad?

Indians love to travel abroad, but unfortunately due to the
often prohibitive cost of travelling to foreign countries most
Indians choose to limit their travels to within the country. But
whenever they get the opportunity, they try to travel abroad.
Sri Lanka, Dubai, and Singapore are some of the places
that Indians often travel to.
3 Who prefers travelling abroad - the young or the old?

Often it is the young who are more adventurous and thus
they tend to travel abroad more often than the old. Young
professionals with disposable incomes are more receptive
to new experiences and cultures, and they make it a part to
set aside some time to travel and explore. Recently though,
there is an increased tendency amongst older people, es-
pecially retirees, to spend some of their savings and travel
abroad.
4 How much time do you think people should spend on a

trip abroad?
People find inspiration and creativity when they travel, as
well as receive the opportunity to learn about other cultures.
238
While it can be a truly eye-opening experience, I think it

would be best to limit our travels to not exceed more than a
couple of weeks, as the leisure we seek must not interfere
with our ability to perform our duties well.
5 Which do you think is a better way of knowing about a

country - reading about it or visiting it?
While we can glean a lot of information about a place by
reading about it, it is still a second hand experience, we
can only come to truly understand something by experienc-
ing it personally. While books are a great way to get a birds-
eye view of a place, to truly know a place, we must visit it.
239
77 Describe a quiet place you like to spend

your time in
Where it is
How often you go there
What you do there
And explain why you like the place
Sample Answer
Cities are a bedlam of annoying sounds - the honking of Bedlam: confusion

cars, the high decibel construction noises, the shouts of
street vendors, cars and buses whooshing past, the wail of Getaway : holiday
sirens or music playing from a window. destination
So every once in a while I head to a quiet and secluded Clamour: loud con-
getaway, far from all the clamour to just relax and fused noise
unwind. This peaceful hideaway that I love to visit is my
ancestral house in a small remote village about 50 kms Hideaway: a place for
from my place. relaxing
Quaint: old fashioned

The village itself is a quaint sleepy one. It is full of verdant
greenery and dense foliage. Visiting this picturesque place Din: loud confusing
and breathing in the fresh air and listening to the loud noise
chirping of birds is a welcome break for me from my
mundane daily routine. Soundtrack: sounds
I am far from the concrete structures, the traffic and the din
of the city where I live. This haven of peace and tranquility
that never fails to refresh and rejuvenate me.
The huge elegant house lies uninhabited as the entire fam-

ily relocated to different parts of the world. The caretaker
who lives nearby takes care of the maintenance and clean-
ing. I spend an entire day there just sitting in the open pil-
lared verandah soaking in the peace and serenity.
Of course there is the beautiful soundtrack scored by the

numerous birds around me, or the sound of the wind
blowing through the trees, all of which are soothing and
pleasant to my ears.
240
Nook: corner
Finding solitude and silence has become a luxury for
people in urban areas, and I am greatly blessed to find this
tranquil nook.
Part 3
1 Why is it hard to find quiet places in cities?

Cities are congested places, full of hustle and bustle.
Sounds from road, rail and air traffic, construction, factories,
televisions blaring, hawkers selling their wares, all create a
never ending din.
2 Why is it quieter in the countryside?

Countrysides are less populated, less congested and have
fewer vehicles. There are vast open spaces full of greenery.
So we don’t hear the harsh annoying city sounds of
honking of vehicles, sounds of engines and machinery in
factories etc. We get to hear soothing sounds like the
chirping of birds or the sound of the wind.
3 Why do people like to go to quiet places?

Peaceful places soothe the mind and help people relax.
Being constantly exposed to noise can be irritating and
overwhelming. Silence allows us to get in touch with our
own thoughts, focus better and enjoy the time spent alone.
4 Which age group prefers quiet places - the young or old?

I think younger people like noisy bustling places while
those advanced in age prefer tranquility. This explains why
young people like to visit crowded shopping centres and
busy malls. Old people , on the other hand, prefer secluded
places.
5 Why do some people not like quiet places?

For some people, loud sounds are stimulating and exciting.
They feel uncomfortable in the absence of sounds.
Probably they like to plug into loud music all the time.
6 Do you need a quiet place when you’re working?

Yes, I am able to work only in a silent environment. Noises
are distracting for me. I am not able to focus,concentrate,
get ideas or be creative, when there is some kind of noise
in the background. I am also able to achieve much more in
totally peaceful environments.
241
78 Describe a law on environmental

protection
Say what it is
How you heard about it
And explain who benefits from it
Sample Answer
Mitigating: reducing
I believe environmental laws are absolutely essential for
Poaching: hunting of
ensuring sustainability of the environment in the present
animals
times. They are put in place by governments to achieve
goals such as mitigating climate change, reducing
Reassuring :
pollution and preventing widespread species and habitat
comforting
loss. I’d like to talk about the Wildlife Protection Act.
I came to know about it when I read about the arrest of

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan some years back for
poaching two black bucks in Rajasthan . He was fined and
also sentenced to five years in prison. Black bucks are
among the endangered animals listed in the Act and there-
fore hunting them is a criminal offence .
I read about this rule again last year in the news. The
Odisha government imposed a seven month ban on
fishing in certain rivers to protect the nests of the
endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles. The ban was imposed
under the provisions of the same Act.
Reading about the Act in these two news reports was

truly very reassuring for me. I feel this legislation is truly an
urgent need of the hour. With several animal and bird
species already extinct and others on the verge of
extinction, this rule will go a long way in safeguarding our
invaluable flora and fauna.
We all know that human activities like clearing of forests

for farmlands, logging, pollution,hunting and poaching of
animals have led to rapid decline in wildlife species. So it is
important to take steps to counteract the harm done .
However, I think merely enacting such laws is not enough.

It is also vital that they are implemented strictly. It is
heartening to know that over 400 cases were filed under
242
this act in Rajasthan in just one year. However there are Toothless: ineffective
other laws like the Pollution Control Act which have
become practically toothless . Hardly any cases are filed Blatantly: without any
under it in spite of the numerous polluting industries, shame
factories and vehicles which blatantly flout this law.
Flout: disregard
So I hope that any kind of violations of the Wildlife
Protection Act are strictly dealt with. This would ensure
that the objectives of this law are achieved and wildlife
populations will be increased and habitat will be protected.
It will also educate people about the importance of wildlife
conservation.
Part 3
1. Do you think this law is acceptable to the people?

Absolutely. I believe people are convinced that human ac-
tivities which harm the environment must be limited. There
is a consensus regarding the fact that environmental issues
can no longer be swept under the carpet, but need proac-
tive response.
So most people welcome such laws, with many taking to
social media to air their views or point out blatant violations.
2. Is there any situation wherein people may disobey the

law?
Flouting of environmental laws mainly occurs for profits and
monetary gains. Animals are poached to sell their body
parts, which can be sold for astronomical sums. Factories
and industries pollute the air and let effluents flow into
water bodies. Extensive quarrying, mining, logging etc are
done with little regard for the environment. All this is done
purely for the money it can bring in.
3. Do people like being a police officer in your country?

I am not sure how popular this profession is. I do not have
any of my friends or acquaintances who have opted for this
career. So probably it is not very high on the list of popular
careers.
4. What qualities should a police officer possess?

Police officers are part of the law enforcement machinery
and have a job that can be physically or mentally demand-
ing. They need to be brave and courageous. They should be
243
able to act appropriately to situations, some of which can

be dangerous. Keen observation and evaluation, along with
critical thinking is essential to be able to gauge situations
quickly. They must be able to remain calm in volatile situa-
tions and also have a high sense of social responsibility.
5. Why do some people prefer to be a lawyer?

Lawyers are part of the justice system of a country and
hence the profession is very noble and respectable. They
ensure that people get justice and thus protect the defense-
less and the oppressed.
6. Should people be penalized when they use mobile

phones while driving?
Absolutely. Using the mobile while driving is a grave offence
which puts not only the driver but others at risk. I think
stringent penalties must be imposed on such reckless and
irresponsible acts.
7. Is kindness the most important quality of a police officer?

Definitely. Being kind and compassionate would help build
a rapport with the citizens and thus they would be willing to
cooperate better with them. Being aloof and cold might, on
the other hand, distance people.
8. Do you think both men and women can be police offi-

cers?
Today men and women rub shoulders with each other in
almost all professions and I can say there is no job that is
out of bounds for women, unlike in the past. I think we are
seeing a new breed of courageous progressive minded
women ready to take on any challenge a job poses and
they have already made significant inroads into
conventionally male dominated professions such as the
Defence Forces.
9. Do you think the police officers are paid too much?

I don’t think they are paid astronomical amounts.I feel their
salary is in accordance with the work they do and the
critical role they play in ensuring safety and security in our
communities and keeping them crime free
244
79 Describe an argument two of your friends

had
When it happened
What is was about
How it was solved
How you felt about it
Sample Answer
When I think of an altercation between friends, my mind Harks back: think of

harks back to my college days when my friend Sam lost something from the
his cool and an argument ensued. past
Sam, Ashima and I were thick friends all through college. Lost his cool:
During our final year, as was our custom,we were all become angry
huddled together in the cafeteria during our lunch break. The
pressure of exams, placements and project deadlines was Ensued: happened
building up and we were not in our usual lively, zesty mood.
Zesty: energetic
Everyone was a little snappy and that was probably why this
Innocuous:
conflict happened. It began as an innocuous exchange
harmless
between Sam and Ashima. Ashima had joined another group
of students to work on the term project, although she had
Flew off the handle:
earlier planned to join Sam and me.
became angry
suddenly
Sam questioned Ashima about it and soon the conversation
escalated into an argument. Sam flew off the handle and
Snowballed:
the argument snowballed, while I watched embarrassed. I
increased in inten-
tried to reason but Sam got hysterical.
sity
The war of words continued and things were spiralling out of
Stormed out: left the
control. They were hurling accusations and counter
place
accusations at each other and emotions were running high.
Finally, our seniors had to intervene to stop the argument.
Swallow his pride:
Sam stormed out of the cafeteria and Ashima was reduced
become humble
to tears.
I was fretting about what to do and then just decided to give

them space for a little while and wait until the emotions died
down. After a few days, I advised Sam to swallow his pride
and apologize to Ashima.
Thankfully, they admitted that they were both behaving

245
immaturely. They decided to let bygones be bygones and Let bygones be

the friendship was rekindled. bygones: forget an of-
fense
Rekindled: revived
Part 3
What do family members generally argue about?

In a family there are a range of subjects that people may
argue about. It may be about petty matters like which
channel to watch, what to cook for dinner or where to hang
a newly bought painting. There may also be arguments
between parents and children about what kind of haircut to
have or dress to wear. However, there are also arguments
that can turn out to be nasty and bitter. It could be between
siblings regarding the share of the family inheritance and
other such money matters.
Is it easier for you to have arguments with friends or family

members?
There are several occasions when we may have
differences of opinion with our families and friends. I
honestly think fights with our families are uncomplicated.
Even if you have a serious fight with a family member ,
it is resolved quickly. Families make it a point to prioritize
issues, resolve them and move forward. However, this may
not be the case with friendships. Tiffs may spiral out of
control and lead to breaking down of the relationship.
If two people argue, do you think a third person should be

involved to settle it.
It is often the case that two people having a quarrel are not
able to reach a healthy resolution. In such situations
seeking the help of a third person is desirable. When two
people are arguing both of them are biased towards what
they feel is right. Intervention of a third person brings a
fresh set of eyes or perspective and consequently, an
impartial solution can be suggested. However the mediator
must be acceptable to both parties.
Why do disagreements arise?

I suppose one fundamental reason for disagreements is
lack of communication. In any institution like family, work-
place, religious place and so on and so forth if open and
honest communication lines are not established disagree-
246
ments and arguments take shape. Another cause could be

differences in temperaments, personality or backgrounds.
Can disagreements be useful in any way?

Disagreements are unavoidable but as long as arguments
stay within certain boundaries they can be productive and
healthy. When people disagree, they are communicating
openly rather than bottling up their feelings. Being silent
may worsen the problem, whereas dialogue can help find
solutions. However, if disagreements are done maliciously
and degenerate into name calling and shouting it can be
unhealthy.But if they end in successful reconciliations they
can strengthen the relationship.,
247
80 Describe a natural talent you want to

improve (like sports or music)
What it is
How you discovered it
How you plan to improve it
And explain what you feel about it
Samlple Answer
It is a fact that all individuals are born with immense natural Doodling: scribble
talents and abilities and in my case it is a talent to draw. absent mindedly
When I was in school, often, my classmates used to catch
me doodling. Dabble: take part
casually
I used to dabble on and off with art at home also. From
my early school years teachers spotted my innate drawing Interred: buried
talent and told my parents about it. Of course, I didn’t value
it much and my parents wanted me to concentrate on my Hiatus: break
studies.
Wilted: withered
So my talent remained interred throughout my growing
years. As I became busy with acquiring a college degree Scoured: searched
and a job,my art supplies gathered dust.
Ignited: lit
However recently with the lockdown restrictions and the
option to work from home, I realized that I had some un-
expected time to kill. That’s when I picked up my drawing
pencils and my paint brushes. After the long hiatus I was a
bit nervous about how it would turn out.
I painted a sunset scene and my family was awestruck. My

brother promptly got it framed and today the painting hangs
in our living room.
My long wilted interest was suddenly revived. Oozing

with enthusiasm and excitement, I scoured the internet for
tutorials and found some really good ones. I am planning to
sign up for a tutorial on acrylic painting.
I realized how satisfying it is to follow our passions and

interests.There is no struggling, no stress, no huffing and
puffing, it just comes naturally.With my passion ignited, I
am sure I am in for a change in my growth trajectory.
248
Part 3
1 Should artists focus on their talent?

Artists are people with artistic talent and stifling the inborn
abilities and passions can be very frustrating. So it would
be ideal to allow those creative juices to flow and give
wings to their creativity. However, unfortunately, art does
not seem to be a lucrative career option, so often people
with creative ability choose mundane jobs to get a stable
paycheck.
2. Is it possible to identify talents in 3 or 4 year olds?

I think if parents are observant, they can easily recognize
the giftings their children have. Children would be more
likely to indulge in activities they are talented in. While some
may like to draw, others may be more inclined towards
music, dance or sports. For example a child with a talent
for dancing would have a good sense of rhythm and would
sway and tap to music whenever he hears it. These signs
indicate that a child has the potential to become a highly
accomplished musician, sportsperson or chef, provided he
gets the right training and means to hone his talent.
3 Do parents feel guilty for putting too much pressure on

their children?
Parents, who keep goading their children to get top scores
and excel,do this out of good intentions. They want the best
for their children - the best colleges, respectable jobs etc.
So they feel they are doing their duty when they push their
children to aim higher and reach their full potential. It’s very
rare that parents realize that there is a fine line between
caring and pressurising. And I feel, for parents generally,
that line is blurred.
4 Why do people like to watch talent shows?

Talent shows like Indian Idol, Star Singer etc enjoy huge
popularity and there is no sign of it waning, despite shows
running for years. I think these shows have a fairy tale el-
ement of ordinary people becoming stars overnight, which
is very appealing to the audiences. There is also plenty of
drama in such shows with the reactions of the judges, the
rivalry of the contestants, the emotions when results are
announced, the lively compering etc. So on the whole I
think these shows are quite high on the entertainment fac-
tor.
249
5 Do you think it is more interesting to watch shows of fa-

mous people or those of ordinary people?
I think it’s a matter of individual choice. While some may
be predisposed towards shows about everyday lives of
ordinary people, shown in an authentic and honest style,
others may find celebrity shows with all the glamour and
razzle dazzle more appealing.
250
81 Describe a puzzle (a jigsaw, crosword,etc)

which you play
Say what it its
How easy or difficult it is
How long it takes you to solve it
Sample Answer
I have always been a fan of puzzles. Right from my Hooked on : addicted to

childhood, I found all types of puzzles irresistible, from
simple jigsaw, crossword or math puzzles to more complex Insurmountable : hard to
ones .To take on the challenge of solving them, applying overcome
your logic, reasoning and critical thinking and then finally
cracking it, is fun and exciting. Stumped: unable to
answer
Among all the different puzzles, my favourite is the
Sudoku. I came across this puzzle in The Hindu a few
years back, and began solving it. I must say once I started
playing it, I got hooked on it.
The Sudoku is a popular number puzzle with a square grid

which has nine rows and nine columns. The puzzle comes
with a few spaces already filled in.The tougher puzzles
have very few numbers filled in.
The challenge is to fill the grid with numbers such that the
numbers 1 to 9 appear in each row and column only once.
There are several levels of Sudoku.The ones in the
newspaper were quite easy but there are also really difficult
puzzles that are almost insurmountable.
Sometimes I get totally stumped and unable to fathom the

solution and such occasions can be really frustrating. Of-
ten I take a break, clear my head and come back to it and
keep trying till I solve it.
Sometimes it takes one or two hours to solve the really

tough ones and my office work tends to suffer. But
perseverance always pays and I am finally able to crack
them.
Sudoku is available online . I have also downloaded a

Sudoku app with thousands of puzzles of five difficulty
251
levels.Whenever I get some moments of downtime, I whip Downtime: freetime

out my phone, put on my thinking cap and get started on
another brain workout. Put on my thinking cap:
to think
I think working out these puzzles invariably lifts my spirits
and cheers me up. The sense of accomplishment it gives
when I successfully crack them is beyond description.
Part 3
Are puzzles good for children?

I believe puzzles are an excellent learning tool since they
develop many vital skills such as cognitive skills, problem
solving skills, fine motor development and hand eye
coordination. Working out puzzles not only enhances
attention span and concentration, but also offers
opportunities to encourage cooperative play among kids.
What kind of puzzles improve people’s intelligence?

I think recent years have seen a resurgence in the
popularity of jigsaw puzzles as many adults are working
them out during their leisure time. People view it as a
mental workout. Moreover it boosts your visual-spatial
reasoning. In addition people who do jigsaw puzzles have
reduced chances of Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss or
dementia.
Why are detective novels appealing to people?

Humans by and large have the natural drive to find
solutions. Clearly our brain is a puzzle solving machine.T
his could be one reason why people often find detective
novels alluring. It is noteworthy that detective novels not
only gratify the puzzle solving element but also invoke our
imagination. I think that makes the suspense of whodunits
gripping and enticing.
4 Which do you think is better, a detective novel or the

movie adaptation of the novel?
I believe that cinematic adaptations of detective novels
offer a richer experience than the novels themselves. It is
gripping to see the characters come to life. The acting, the
soundtrack and the cinematography blend together to give
an impact that reading the novel would not be able to mim-
ic.
252
82 Describe a time when you shared

something with another person
Say what it was
Who you shared with
Why you shared
Sample Answer
I have no qualms about sharing. It’s a trait that’s inherent Qualms: doubts
in me. I feel sharing is a prime virtue worth developing.
Something I shared recently was the recipe for a chocolate Inherent: inborn
cake.
Cooped up: held in a
Recently, cooped up at home during the lockdown, I small space
decided to get my oven out and do some baking. I had
decided on my favourite chocolate cake. I got my Tantalising: tempting
ingredients ready and in about fifteen minutes the batter
was ready and the cake was in the oven. Aroma: pleasant smell
Just then, my friend Rekha, who lives next door, walked in Sure fire recipe:
saying that the tantalising aroma of the cake had recipe that is sure to
accosted her. She watched me remove the cake from the be successful
oven and when she had tasted it, her eyes widened with
delight and she wanted the recipe for the cake. It was her Novice: inexperienced
father’s birthday the next day and she was planning to
order a cake online. However, after seeing my cake, she Flawless: perfect
wanted to bake one herself.
Niggling: persistent
I was only too happy to share the recipe with her. One
reason was that it was an almost sure fire recipe. It can be Mustering : gathering
made quickly and easily without any elaborate baking skills.
Rekha was a novice at baking, but I was confident that
this recipe would come out flawless - deliciously soft and
moist textured and perfect for the occasion.
I listed out the ingredients and also supplied her with items
she did not have. She was delighted but still she had
niggling doubts about trying it the next day. I encouraged
her and gave her an elaborate step by step explanation of
the entire process and things to be careful about while
baking. Mustering courage, she left, inviting me to the
birthday party the next day.
253
Gobbled up: eat

The next evening I was at Rekha’s place and when it was greedily
time for her father to cut the cake, she brought out her
home baked chocolate cake. It was a perfect, moist and Ecstatic: very thrilled
melt in your mouth cake with rich deep chocolate flavour.
Rekha got compliments from everyone and as they Ripple effects: an
gobbled up the cake, they all wanted the recipe. event that causes
other events to happen
Rekha was beaming with pride and I felt ecstatic when I
realised I had contributed to that smile on her face. As she
passed on the recipe to others, I realized how simple acts
of sharing have ripple effects. It can be a smile, a kind
word or just a simple recipe. They may be small but when
done with a heart of caring and desire to help others, they
serve as catalysts for more acts of kindness.
Part 3
1. Do you like to share?

Yes I think I am basically a kind and generous person. I am
very open to sharing my belongings with others. I think right
from my young age, my parents taught me to share every-
thing with others. I have come to understand that keeping
everything to yourself and being self centered makes you
isolated. On the other hand, being open and empathetic
can help you get more friends and build better relationships.
2. What are the consequences if children don’t like to share?

I think not learning to share and be generous could lead to
problems for children. They may not be able to make friends
and would be selfish. They would fail to empathize with oth-
ers due to their self centredness.
3. How do you feel about sharing accommodation with

others on campus?
Sharing accommodation can be challenging or pleasant
depending on the kind of person who is your roommate.
We need to adjust, understand and respect each other’s
privacy and personal space. Clear agreements would be
needed to be set in place regarding cleanliness,
organization of space, sharing chores etc. However the up-
side is that your roommates can become your best buddies.
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4. How could parents teach young children to share?

I think the best way parents can help children inculcate this
quality is by being good role models. They should set ex-
amples of sharing that their children can follow. Also chil-
dren can be given opportunities to practise sharing, when
they are with others. It can start with sharing their toys,
sweets or cookies with their friends.
5. Would you ever share your food with someone else?

Definitely. We would always share food at school and col-
lege. Lunch breaks were always fun as we got to taste a
variety of dishes from different tiffins. I think sharing food is
a great way of bonding.
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83 Describe an occasion when you were not

allowed to use you mobile phone
When it was
Where it was
Why you were not allowed to use your mobile phone
Sample Answer
Life without smartphones is unimaginable today and we Quirky: peculiar

are so attached to our phones that they have become an
extension of ourselves. However a few weeks back I had an Foot the entire bill: to pay
unusual experience of not being allowed to use my phone. for something
Actually some of my old college friends and I had planned
to meet for lunch at a restaurant. Reminisced: recollected
past events
It was there that one of our friends, Deepa, shared
something quirky that she had read online. She said Itching: longing
there was a challenge in which people who met to eat at a
restaurant kept their phones on the table and didn’t touch Succumbed: unable to
them till the end of the meal. And whoever touched his or resist
her phone before that would have to foot the entire bill.
Digital detox: a period
It was a funny idea and we decided to give it a shot. We all when a person avoids
placed our phones at the centre of the table. For the next using electronic
one or two hours, we just chatted, cracked jokes, laughed devices such as phone
and reminisced about our college days, our teachers, the or laptop.
happy and sad moments. We updated each other about
the recent happenings in our lives and we just enjoyed the
delicious food.
We all had the urge to look at our phones from time to time.
We were itching to check our messages when the
notification lights blinked. But we resisted those urges and
no one among us succumbed to the temptation. So there
was no loser and we just split the bill among ourselves as
we used to do in our college days.
This no-phone policy during the time that we spent

together helped us have a great time of bonding. There
were no distractions from Facebook, Instagram or
Whatsapp. And so we just focussed all our attention on
each other and just enjoyed the moment.
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I must say this break from my mobile screen was a

refreshing experience for me. I am seriously thinking of
attempting some digital detox on a regular basis.
Part 3
1 What are the uses of smartphones?

Well there are numerous functions and a wide range of
applications available on smartphones. The first one is of
course communication. We can stay connected via calls or
messages on Whatsapp, Facebook etc. We can stay up-
dated with the latest happenings around the world. There is
ample entertainment like video games, movies, music etc.
Mobile phones bring convenience. We can make payments
and do our shopping. Mobile phone cameras also help
us create memories through photos and videos and even
share them.
2 What are the negative effects of cell phone dependence?

Overuse of mobile phones affects focus and concentration
and thus has a negative impact on learning outcomes and
productivity. Moreover excessive use of smart phones is
also associated with sleep deficit, stress and anxiety. Also
as digital use increases, it can cause health problems like
eye strain, vision problems, back pain, neck pain and head-
aches. Being engrossed on mobile screens also affects re-
lationships and social skills. It makes people more isolated
and socially withdrawn.
257
84 Describe an occasion when many people

were smiling
When it happened
Who were with you
What happened
And explain why many were smiling
Sample Answer
I happened to witness a sea of smiling faces recently. It was Straight face: not to
during a cultural programme conducted by the Kindergarten smile
students of a school nearby.My friend was the
photographer for the event and I happened to Bloopers: a mistake
accompany him.The four and five year olds had put up a
variety of items. Goofing up: make a
silly mistake
They sang songs, recited nursery rhymes, performed action
songs, danced and even presented a play. From the Gaudy : too bright
beginning to the end, there was no way we could watch the
programme with a straight face. Bloopers after bloopers Smudged: smeared or
kept happening. spread
The young ones kept goofing up. While sometimes Hilarious: funny
moustaches fell off their faces, at other times they dropped
their mikes. While some of the little ones forgot their lines, Unabashedly: without
there were others who just stood smiling cutely to see their any shame
parents sitting in the audience. The dancers with their
gaudy costumes and make up looked extremely cute. Many Leaves me in splits:
had their lipstick and eye paint all smudged. make me laugh
uproariously
The most hilarious part was when one of the boy’s dhoti
fell off during a group dance. Instead of retrieving it, he
continued dancing unabashedly in his shorts. The teachers
backstage tried their best to maintain their sanity and keep
the programme going.
The audience which consisted mainly of parents and

other family members of the young ones went from
chuckling and giggling to laughing hysterically. It was an
amusing one hour, which still leaves me in splits when I
replay some of those scenes in my mind.
The innocent little children with all their imperfections and
258
messes had spread smiles on hundreds of faces, which

probably a well executed performance may not have been
able to do.
Part 3
1 When and why do people smile?

Smiles are one of the most beautiful human gestures.
People smile when they are happy. Smile is a way of ex-
pressing warmth, pleasure or politeness when we greet a
person. Also people often show their approval and appreci-
ation through a smile.
2 How can you distinguish between a fake smile and a gen-

uine smile?
There are smiles which are just polite smiles but there are
also smiles which come from the bottom of our heart.I think
we can differentiate between the two by looking at the eyes.
In a real smile, the eyes also light up but when a smile is
feigned it uses only the mouth.
3 Why do people smile while taking photographs?

I think everyone looks better when they are smiling. Also
smiling faces make better memories than grim and serious
looking ones.
4 Who smiles more - men or women?

I have noticed that women have a greater readiness to
smile. They smile more promptly when they meet strang-
ers than men, who mostly remain serious. Women always
tend to put others at ease through their smiles and create a
pleasant atmosphere.
5 Do you think people who like to smile are more friendly?

A smile makes people look more approachable and charm-
ing. People tend to gravitate towards people who smile than
towards those with a serious demeanour. A smile is a pos-
itive body language and sends out a message of warmth.
So people with beaming smiles are likely to have a larger
circle of friends.
259
85 Describe a time you saw something

interesting on social media
When it was
Where you saw it
What you saw
And explain why you think it was interesting
Sample Answer
I see hundreds of posts on social media everyday and one Mimicked: imitate
thing that caught my attention was a picture with a caption
“Hand of God”. Simulate: create a
model of
The picture was that of an unconscious covid patient whose
hand was covered by two disposable gloves filled with Resurgence :
warm water. The gloves mimicked the feeling of a person’s increase
hand grip. As I read on, I came to know this was a kind
action by a nurse who tried to simulate a human touch Unflinching: without
using surgical gloves. fear or hesitation
This happened in Brazil, where the coronavirus Humane: showing

pandemic is seeing a resurgence and the health care compassion
system is under severe pressure. Since family members
are barred in isolation wards, the nurse was trying to do her
best to create a feeling of someone holding the patient’s
hand and comforting her.
She filled the gloves with warm water and tied them
together with the patient’s hand.
This post was extraordinary . The empathy and compassion

of the nurse, who went beyond her professional duty to give
a loving touch is remarkable.
As frontline workers struggle to provide care to patients,

these efforts show their unflinching dedication and
compassion.
It is also a reminder of the one thing that everyone needs:

the human touch and its power to comfort, reassure,
strengthen and give hope. It conveyed very clearly that,
much more than our training and skills, the most vital need
is to be humane.
260
The post went viral on social media with thousands of

people commenting on the creative and compassionate
gesture.
Part 3
1 Why do people use social media?

I think people use social media like Facebook or Whatsapp
to stay connected with each other. People share photos,
events, achievements etc with friends. It is also a place to
keep ourselves abreast with daily news and current events.
Businesses use social media to market and advertise their
products or services.
2 What kind of things are popular on social media?

I think funny videos, interesting articles or news stories are
the most trending posts on social media. Videos offering
information or entertainment also attract a huge amount of
traffic.
3 What are the advantages and disadvantages of using

social media?
The primary benefit of social media is that it allows
worldwide connectivity. It brings people together and helps
build communities across geographical boundaries. It is a
key tool to share information. Raising funds for charity,
protesting a government decision or raising awareness
about matters etc are much easier on social media.
On the other hand, sharing too many things on social
networking sites can cause trouble. Also spending too
much time on social media platforms takes time away from
face to face relations and generally reduces intimacy in
relationships.
4 What do you think about making friends on social

networking sites?
Social media is a nice place to befriend people with
similar interests, through mutual friends or while playing
video games. However there is an element of risk involved
and we need to be cautious about sharing personal
information.
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86 Describe a skill you can teach others

Say which it is
How you learnt it
How you can teach it to others
And explain what you feel about this skill
Sample Answer
A skill that I acquired recently and would be happy to Impart: give

impart to others is how to give first aid. Stuck at home Worthwhile: valuable
amid the pandemic, with plenty of extra time on my hands,
I wanted to do something worthwhile. Binge-watching: watching
multiple episodes in a
Although playing mobile games, binge-watching my fa- single sitting
vourite web series and trying out new recipes were good Take the plunge: to do
pastimes, I wanted to use my time more effectively and something after some
that’s when the idea of learning first-aid struck me. hesitation
Writhing: twisting and

A recent incident also helped me take the plunge.
turning
My next door neighbour fell from a ladder and although I
was the first to rush to the spot, I had no clue about what to Scoured: searched
do.
Zeroed in: aimed at
She was writhing in pain and I badly wished I knew how to
comfort her and reduce the pain.
I felt helpless and that’s when I realized how important it

is to have basic first aid skills. Emergency situations can
arise anywhere and anytime without prior notice and I didn’t
want to be a mere bystander.
So having made up my mind to learn it, I scoured the

internet and zeroed in on a web site which had some high
quality videos alongside written guidance.
The course covered various emergency situations such as

cuts, abrasions, burns etc and explained the appropriate
action to be taken such as setting up a splint ,the right way
to bandage etc.
After doing the course, I‘ve had several occasions, when I

was able to assist people.I feel quite proud that I made
myself useful to others by knowing these invaluable skills.
262
A few days back my nephew sprained his ankle and my Empower: to make
normal reaction would be worrying and fretting, However, confident or strong
this time, I confidently proceeded with the first aid.
I applied an ice pack to the injury to control the swelling and

then tied a compression elastic bandage firmly and
elevated the leg, before we sought medical help.
I would really like to teach this skill to as many people as I

can. I can show them basic techniques and procedures.
I would be happy to recommend useful websites and

tutorials that can help them master the skills.
I’m sure it will empower them to help themselves and

others. I believe this area is highly neglected and taking
the training programme has convinced me that it’s really
worth it.
Part 3
1 Is it important for teachers to be funny while teaching?

Definitely. Humor is by far the best thing that can bring peo-
ple together. It can help learners connect with their teachers
and also help them get over the anxieties and pressures of
an academic environment. More importantly, studies have
shown that it is extremely difficult for teachers to hold the
attention of learners for long periods of time. Interspersing
learning with humor can boost concentration and ensure a
better academic outcome.
2 Which type of skills, do you think are more important -

academic or practical?
We live in a world of hyper-specialization, which is creat-
ing professionals, who are becoming more and more out
of touch with the world that we live in. I think that while
there definitely is the need to inculcate academic skills in
students, the current scenario places too small a focus on
practical skills, such as fixing a flat tyre, car maintenance,
managing a bank account etc. This is placing young learn-
ers at an extreme disadvantage, therefore, I think we should
try to increase the importance given to practical skills.
3 What are the qualities a teacher should have?

263
I believe one of the most essential attributes of a great

teacher is a passion for teaching. She should be passion-
ate and creative enough to make lessons interesting and
engaging. She should be caring, compassionate and ap-
proachable, so that students would be encouraged to share
problems and concerns with her, A good teacher should
also be a good communicator, who is able to clearly articu-
late her viewpoints, as a learner looks to a teacher for clar-
ity
4 Which age is the best for learning new skills?

Children definitely have an advantage over adults in pick-
ing up new skills, but it doesn’t mean that one cannot pick
up skills later on in life. I believe that you can acquire new
skills at any point, as long as you are dedicated and willing
to approach things with an open mind.
264
87 Describe a time when you needed to use

your imagination
Say when it was
What the situation was
How difficult or easy it was
Sample Answer
I think our imagination is one of the most important Adversities: hardships

faculties that we possess. It helps us overcome tough
Rummaging: search
situations and adversities by coming up with creative unsystematically and
solutions. untidily through
something
I remember an occasion when I had to put all my creative
abilities to play, to tackle a really challenging Onerous: involving a great
deal of effort
situation.
This happened about a few months back. My uncle and

aunt had to make an urgent trip to the bank and they left
their two children in my care.
They were aged two and four. Bubbly, active and full of
energy, the moment they came in they started running
around, rummaging my study table and messing up my
clothes, I scratched my head wondering how I would man-
age these bundles of energy.
I was alone at home with no one to help me in the task and

as luck would have it, there was no electricity. This meant I
could not switch on the cartoon channel for them, or charge
my phone to show them funny videos.
Now I was faced with the onerous task of keeping them

busy. That’s when I began creating pretend games. I pulled
out an old cardboard box and that was our ship, which was
sailing on the seas.
Suddenly we were attacked by pirates, so we had to es-

cape them by shooting them with our cardboard guns.
Once they got tired playing that, we imagined the floor was
lava and to escape that, we had to walk on the furniture.
265
Touching the floor would mean we would get scalded.

Next we made a fortress with pillows and I made them take Twinge: a sudden, sharp
a nap in it. localized pain
Nostalgia: an affectionate
We played many of these games, with the children trans- feeling you have for the
forming themselves into superheroes with capes or doc- past
tors with stethoscopes.
I enjoyed as much as the kids, probably because

somewhere deep down,when I played with them, I went
back to my own childhood and the delightful little games we
played, and couldn’t help feeling that twinge of nostalgia .
When their parents came to pick them up, they didn’t want
to leave but more than that, I didn’t want them to go.
That was a time my imagination and creative skills helped

me change a potentially burdensome task into something
truly exciting.
Part 3
Are adults imaginative?

Irrespective of our age, everyone has the ability to be imag-
inativ. The fact that some of our most famous writers are
quite old, stands as a testament to this. The issue is that
most people dismiss the imagination as not being import-
ant as they grow older and become adults. They think that
imagination is the same as fantasy, but imagination is actu-
ally an aspiration for something better than what is already
present. As long as we can remember this, anyone can be
imaginative, irrespective of their age.
Do scientists need imagination?

Most people assume that scientists are unimaginative, but
it is their ability to be imaginative that allows scientists to
come up with creative solutions to problems. If scientists
were unimaginative then they would never be able to make
new discoveries or inventions. For example, till the Wright
brothers invented the aeroplane, the reality was that human
beings could not fly, it was their child-like ability to imagine
a world where human beings could fly, that helped them
invent the aeroplane.
What kind of jobs need imagination?

266
One needs imagination to do any job well, because imagi-

nation is basically borne out of a firm belief that the way we
do things currently can be improved, and to come up with
a better solution, one needs to be able to imagine a better
way. Imagination comes most into play in jobs that have a
creative aspect to it, like for writers, movie directors, entre-
preneurs, and scientists. Anyone who has a responsibility
to come up with something new will need a strong imagina-
tion.
How can we develop our imagination?

The best way to improve our imagination is to hold onto
our childlike curiosity, even as we grow up. The second we
accept that the current system is the only one possible, we
lose our ability to be imaginative. As long as we are will-
ing to aspire for the better and spend time to think about
things, we can develop our imagination.
267
https://www.ieltsking.in/contact
268
Warm Up Questions (Part-1)
Four ID Checking Questions

Good morning, my name is XYZ. Can you tell me your full
name please?
Good morning, my name is Manpreet singh.
What can I call you?
You can call me Manpreet.
Can you tell me where you are from?
I’m from a small town called panjgraian, in Sangrur
District.
Can I see your identification, please?
Sure
269
1 Your home / accommodation
Do you live in a house or a flat?

I live in an independant house, It’s a single storeyed mod-
ern structure. We have three bedrooms with attached bath-
rooms, a living room, a dining hall, a kitchen, a service area
and a front veranda.
Which is your favourite room?
My favourite room is my own room. It’s my own space

where I can enjoy my privacy and do whatever I wish to do
like play video games, watch movies and chat with friends
sitting on my comfortable couch or just lying down on my
bed.
What are the benefits of living in flats?

Flats are compact and much more easy to maintain than
houses. They are safer because they are within a gated
community with round the clock security and CCTV. They
have plenty of amenities like swimming pools, gardens,
lawns etc and are usually located in prime locations. Also
they offer ample opportunities to develop friendships. In ad-
dition, they have inhouse maintenance staff like plumbers,
electricians etc for maintenance work which saves us from
many hassles.
What are the benefits of living in independent houses?

The main benefit is that you have greater freedom and pri-
vacy. Independent houses are also more spacious and we
can set up our own garden, cultivate plants, keep pets etc.
270
2 Your work or study

Are you working or studying?
I’m working. I’m a high school teacher in a school in my
hometown called St Mary’s High School.
Work
Do you enjoy that work?

Absolutely!! Because I love being around young people
who are full of energy and I have a passion for teaching.
Would you say your work environment is good?

Yes certainly. That’s because we are surrounded with chil-
dren and it is impossible to be bored or stagnant in this job.
We are constantly challenged to find creative ways to teach
and deal with our students and the daily problems.
Study
What subjects are you studying?

I have opted for the Commerce stream, so I study Com-
merce, Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics and
English.
Why did you choose to study this?

I plan to opt for a career in the banking or finance field,so
this stream would allow me to enrol for undergraduate pro-
grammes in this field. .
How much do you study every week?

We have about thirty hours of classes per week at school.
In addition I do at least two hour of private study daily.
How can you improve your efficiency as a student?

I think proper time management would enhance my pro-
ductivity. I get sidetracked from my studies by social media
notifications, messages etc on my mobile phone and this
creates a backlog in my studies. If I make a proper study
timetable and stick to it, I would be able to accomplish
more.
271
3 Mirrors
How often do you look at yourself in the mirror everyday?
I mostly look at myself in the mirror when I need to get
dressed to go out. I am basically not very particular about
my looks and so I don’t spend much time in front of the
mirror.But my sister who is very style conscious spends a
lot of time examining her flaws, her pimples, her eyebrows
and so on.
Have you ever bought mirrors?

Yes I purchased a mirror for my bathroom. I opted for a
large oval shaped one.
Would you use mirrors to decorate your room?

Yes I think they are a stylish piece of decor. They come in
various sizes and shapes. Some have artistically designed
borders of metal, wood or even sea shells. I had once pur-
chased a mirror with sea shells on its borders from Kanya
kumari.
4 Watch
Do you wear a watch?
I still wear a watch although it has been relegated to the
background now with people preferring to get the time from
their phones.
Have you ever got a watch as a gift?

Yes, in my fifth standard my father gifted me a Titan watch
with a round gold dial and leather strap. It was my very first
watch.
Do you think it is important to wear a watch?

I don’t think it is important to wear a watch. However it is
important to keep track of the time by whichever means
people may prefer, so that they can carry out their day to
day activities in a time bound manner.
Why do some people wear expensive watches?

Probably it is because they see a watch as a great acces-
sory to enhance their appearance and make a style state-
272
ment. Expensive watches are also the ultimate prestige

symbol.
5 Talent
Do you have talent?
Yes I am a talented artist and have done some impressive
paintings on canvas using water colours and acrylic.
Do you think your talent can be useful in your future work?

My talent makes me very creative and creative ideas are
always useful at my workplace.I am always able to come up
with innovative ideas due to my creativity and imagination.
Do you think anyone in your family has the same talent?
Yes.I have inherited this talent from my mother.She was

also a very artistic person.I still have some wall hangings
done by my mother.My aunts and even my grandmother
also had this artistic talent and excelled in handicrafts and
stitching.
6 Books
Do you like to read books?
Yes I am an avid book reader.My favourite genre is detec-
tive novels. Sherlock Holmes, Alfred HItchcock and Agathe
Christie are my favourite authors.
Are your reading habits now different from that in the past?
Yes I think my interest in reading has waned compared to

the past.Today the lure of electronic entertainment media
is too irresistible and I find that I am more inclined towards
spending time on Facebook, Youtube or binge watching
web series on OTT platforms rather than reading books.
Have you ever read a book that has been adapted into a
film?
Yes, many of the stories of Agatha Christie have been
273
adapted into movies. The movie adaptations are much

more appealing than the books.
Which do you prefer - watching films or reading books?

I prefer curling up in a quiet corner with a book. I admire
the way authors build character sketches, plots and sub-
plots and keep the readers hooked. I love to explore dif-
ferent literary genres and writing styles. Hence reading is
much more pleasurable for me than watching a movie.
7 Watching sports programmes

Do you prefer to watch live sports or watch it on TV?
As a sports fan, I know how electrifying watching a match
in person can be. However I am more inclined towards
watching on television or other streaming services. The
first reason is the convenience because we are free from
the hassle of travelling to the stadium, the traffic, the long
queues and the uncomfortable seats. Another major ad-
vantage is the replays and the different camera angles
available. So you never miss out on what is happening in
the field.
Why do some people like to watch live sports?

I think it is because they like to immerse themselves in
the excitement and the energy. In a stadium, we share the
entire spectacle with a large group of people like us, cheer-
ing, excited and full of energy. So the experience is always
better than a virtual one.
What kind of sports do Indian people like to watch?

I think cricket would win hands down as the most popular
sport in India. We truly are a cricket obsessed nation. Peo-
ple love to watch our ace players and are proud of their
sterling performances. You can also see children and adults
alike, indulging in the game in nearby open grounds or
even on the streets. Badminton is also another hugely pop-
ular sport. Many Indian players such as Saina Nehwal and
PV Sindhu have managed to make a mark in international
events. So I think this has generated greater interest in this
sport.
274
8 Old Buildings
Do you think old buildings should be preserved?
I think all old buildings need not be preserved. Only the
ones with historical or cultural significance must be pre-
served.However other dilapidated buildings must be demol-
ished to make space for new structures.
Do you prefer to live in old or modern houses?

I prefer modern buildings for the numerous conveniences
and aesthetically designed that they incorporate.
Are there any ancient buildings you would like to see?

Yes, I am interested in seeing some ancient structures. I am
very interested in the Mughal architectural styles and would
like to visit structures built in that style. I would also like to
visit the ancient magnificently designed temples in Tamil
Nadu.
9 Meeting places
Which kind of places do you like to meet your friends?
Our favourite hangout places are cafes,fast food joints or
parks. We like to spend hours chatting there muching on
snacks or sipping coffee.
Are there any differences between your favourite meeting

places now and the ones in your childhood?
In childhood we met in people’s homes or parks. The trend
of meeting in cafes, restaurants or fast food outlets was not
so common.
10 Computers
What do you mostly do on the computer?
I mostly use my computer to watch movies and read books.
Sometimes I also use it for work related matters like send-
ing various applications, and checking up on new oppor-
tunities on LinkedIn. I also use it to study various online
courses from Udemy and Skillshare.
How have computers changed the world?

275
Almost all of the smart devices that we use today from

smartphones to self-driving cars have mini-computers in
them and they have made life a great deal easier for us.
Computers have also allowed for the development of ro-
botics which is being used increasingly in factories. The
complex calculations needed for complicated activities like
space flight could also only be achieved with computers.
Have computers made our lives easier or more complex?

Computers have made our lives easier by enabling the
creation of devices that save us a lot of time and effort. For
example, computers and the internet allows us to access
information about any topic from anywhere as well as ac-
cess services like cabs and food delivery in a quicker and
more convenient way.
Do you think using computers has more negative than posi-

tive effects on children?
Yes, excessive use of computers by children is a major
problem in our society. Children are focusing less on their
academic work and spending too much time on YouTube
and on playing video games. While computers offer children
the opportunity to access a great deal of information, the
entry of children into internet platforms and social media
also puts them in the way of harm, as they are put at risk of
being exploited by miscreants online.
Should children be allowed to use computers at school?

While it is important to teach children how to use comput-
ers as part of the curriculum, their use of computers must
be strictly monitored, and they must only be allowed to use
it when necessary. Children should be allowed to use com-
puters to complete projects, but their access to computers
must be at the discretion of the teachers.
Do you think old people struggle with the use of modern

technology?How can we help them?
Old people tend to struggle quite a bit with modern technol-
ogy, they often don’t understand how to use them and are
frustrated when their early attempts fail. Young people can
help them by explaining how to use these technologies.
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Are there any differences between your favourite meeting

places now and the ones in your childhood?
In childhood we met in people’s homes or parks. The trend
of meeting in cafes, restaurants or fast food outlets was not
so common.
11 Collecting things
What kind of things do people collect?
People collect a variety of objects. While some collect
stamps and coins, there are some who have CD or feather
collections. Collecting old objects gives a sense of nostal-
gia also.
What are the benefits of collections?

Building collections give a sense of pride and satisfaction
as people see their collections grow. It also teaches people
how to take care of things.
12 Boring things
What kind of things are boring to you?
I find subjects like chemistry and physics dull and boring.I
find some movies also boring, mostly those which are too
slow and tend to drag.
What do you do when you feel bored?

I like to watch comedy programmes when I feel bored. They
tickle my funny bones and refresh me.
Did you find school boring?

I never found school boring as I used to have great fun with
my friends. So even dull classes would get pepped up in
the company of my friends.
13 Advertisements
Do you like to watch advertisements?
Yes I love watching advertisements because I like to see
how creatively they convey information about the product.
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What kind of advertisements do you dislike?

I dislike advertisements targeting children as I think it is un-
ethical to aim at children who are gullible and lack maturity.
Do you want to work in the advertising industry in future?

Yes definitely, if I get a chance I would like to definitely work
as a copywriter for the advertisement industry creating
catchy slogans and taglines.
14 Films
Do you like foreign or domestic films?
I like both domestic and Hollywood movies. However I am
very choosy about the movies I watch. I always read the
reviews, check the IMBD ratings and watch trailers before
watching so that I do not waste my time on mediocre mov-
ies, but rather on the really good ones.
Do people like to go to the cinema to watch movies?

With the coming of OTT platforms most young people pre-
fer watching films on their own devices. The older genera-
tion however still prefers to go to the cinema.
What are the different types of movies?

There are a wide range of genres in movies such as action,
drama comedy suspense , animation romance, documen-
taries, biopics and martial arts films.
How is technology used in films?
Technology has transformed the way films are made. In
the past movies were shot on film but now they are shot
using digital cameras. Movies are stored in internal storage
or memory cards not on film reels. Another use of technolo-
gy is the use of computer graphics or animation, computer
generated images and visual effects.Also movies can be
distributed through streaming websites like Netflix or Ama-
zon Prime etc.
What are the differences between Hollywood movies and

Indian films?
One difference is that Hollywood films are shorter in dura-
tion. Also they use more advanced technology. Further Indi-
an movies always have songs and dances, which is usually
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not there in Hollywood films. Also Hollywood movies are

mostly science fiction, horror or suspense thrillers, where-
as the themes that dominate Indian films are usually family
oriented or romantic.
15 Your country
Which part of your country do you live in?
I live in the southern most part of my country, in a state
called Kerala. It is flanked by the Arabian Sea to the west
and the state of Tamil Nadu to the east.
Are you proud of your country?

Yes absolutely. I am proud of the rich cultural diversity of my
country, its past and also the unity amidst the diversity.
Do you know the history of your country?

Yes of course. In school, we had to study the history of my
country in great detail. Right from the Indus Valley civili-
zation to the British rule, we have learnt of all the different
kings, rulers and empires. I must say I may not remember
all of the history, but I am aware of the important details.
16 Spending time with others
1 Do you like talking with people?

Yes, of course. I am basically an extrovert and I love meet-
ing people and talking to them. I think I’m quite talkative
and love chatting over the phone with my friends for a long
time.
2. How do you like spending time with friends?

I think being with your friends is an awesome experience.
The best thing about friends is that they accept you as you
are, with all your flaws and shortcomings. So we can just
be free and open with friends. There are no pretences. Also
we can share everything with friends. They are trustworthy
and never judgemental.
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3 Would you like to study alone or with others?
I think group study is fun, but I feel I can accomplish much

more when I study on my own. So although I do study with
my friends, when I am closer to my exam, I like to study
solo.
4 Do you remember a time when you needed to cooperate

with others?
All through school, there were group activities and projects.

I remember our project in senior school, where we were in
a group of 6 and we had to cooperate and collaborate with
each other.
17 Pets and Animals

What’s your favourite pet animal?
I love dogs. We have a pet dog. His name is Ponchee. I
think dogs are the most adorable creatures. They love un-
conditionally and are fiercely loyal. They are also wonderful
companions.
Have you ever had a pet before?

Yes I had a few cats before. I think cats are low mainte-
nance pets as we don’t need to give them a bath or brush
their fur like we need to do for dogs.
Where do you prefer to keep your pet - indoor or outdoor?

I keep Ponchee indoors. He loves to sit on our laps most of
the time. I have a dog bed for him where he sleeps during
the night.He loves to get into the kitchen, drawn by the
tempting smells, but we don’t allow him entry there.
18 Headphones
1 Do you use headphones?
Yes I do, I am an audiophile and love listening to music. So
headphones are a very important part of my life. I spend a
lot of time researching and finding the right pair
.
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2 What type of headphones do you use?

I use a JBL on ear headpone, it sits on the ear and is very
comfortable
3 When do you use headphones?

I usally use it when I’m trying to relax and unwind. The
noise cancellation and sound clarity are perfect for
listening to music. I also use them while listening to lectures
and informative podcasts related to my work or study
4 In what conditions do you avoid using headphones?

I generally avoid wearing them while walking in busy
streets so that I can pay attention to my surroundings and
traffic
19 Shoes
1 How often do you buy shoes?
I buy shoes when I feel the existing ones are worn out and
need to be replaced. So there is no fixed time frame.
2 Have you ever bought shoes online?

Yes. I prefer to buy leather shoes online. I manage to get
amazing discounts and a wider range of choices than I
would get at a local store.
3 How much money do you usually spend on those?

They are quite expensive and can cost upto Rs 3000. How-
ever they are durable and last long if we take good care of
them.So I believe investing in a quality pair is worth it.
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20 Apps
1 What apps have you recently used?

I use a wide variety of apps. The most go to app for
chatting is Whatsapp. I use Zomato and Swiggy apps to
order food and Spotify and Gaana to listen to music.
2 What kind of apps are you interested in?

I use all kinds of apps, but im especially interested in
education applications like udemy and coursera, I find a lot
of courses, many of them free that help me upskill for my
career. I also find courses that help me take my hobbies to
the next level such as guitar and baking.
3 What kind of apps would you like to use in the future?

I would like to use apps that can be used for self
development. I believe a reading app like juggernaut books
or kindle and a workout app like nike fitness would add a lot
of value to my life.
21 Colour
Which is your favourite colour?
My favourite colour is white. I think it is a soothing colour.
What colours do you like?

I love bright and vibrant shades
Do colours affect your mood?

Yes. I think green and blue have a soothing effect. Bright
colours are a source of pleasure and make us feel more
upbeat.White conveys a sense of freshness and purity. Dull
shades can dampen our moods.
Does colour matter when you are buying things?

Yes I give importance to colours when I purchase things.
For items like phone cover, bedspreads or home decor
items, I may opt for bright shades, whereas for home furni-
ture, bags and footwear I prefer softer tones.
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What is the difference between colour preferences of men

and women?
I think women have a penchant for vibrant shades, while
men prefer dull colours like brown and grey. However, the
reverse may also be true for some. There are many women
who love soft tints of colours like pink, while men may pre-
fer darker shades.
22 Flowers
1 What kind of flowers do you know about?
There are flowers all around. I feel so fascinated by their

vibrant shades. I know about a lot of flowers because my
mother is an avid gardener and we have several varieties of
flowers in our garden. There are orchids of different colours,
yellow and red roses, dahlia and lily.
Are there any flowers with special meaning in your coun-

try?
Yes, there are certain flowers with some religious or cultural

significance. Lotus is the national flower of India. For Bud-
dhists, the lotus symbolises divinity, knowledge and enlight-
enment. Hindus also consider the lotus auspicious. Easter
lily stands for purity.
Have you planted any flowers?
Yes I have. Gardening is my passion. I think I have inherited

this from my mother, who has a green thumb. I have plant-
ed many varieties of flowers in my garden. I often try to get
rare ones from nurseries. I recently planted some begonias
and tulips. There is nothing as refreshing as the sight of
these blooming beauties.
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23 Barbecue
1 Do Indians like barbecue?
Barbeque is an all-time favourite among Indians. They love
to gorge on the variety of flavorful barbeque dishes. I think
this is a fairly recent trend which started with a couple of
barbeque restaurants springing up in my state.
2 What kind of food do you like for barbeque?

My absolute favourite is marinated barbecued chicken. Just
the thought and I’m salivating. It’s simply irresistible. Barbe-
cue fish and other sea foods also taste delicious.
3 Would you like to eat barbeque dishes with family and

friends?
Nothing can beat the thrill of trying out barbeque recipes at
home with our family and friends. So every once in a while,
we fire up our grill and make some barbecue and enjoy it
with green salads and coleslaw.
24 Car trip
1 Do you like to travel by car?
Certainly, travelling by car is by far the most convenient
and safest mode of transport. It has always been my
first preference, also for the freedom, comfort and privacy it
offers.
2 When do you travel by car?

I drive to my workplace in my car. Also for weekend fami-
ly outings, all of us jump into the car. Car ride is a sure-
fire way to enjoy a weekend getaway.
3 Where is the farthest place you have travelled by car?
My cousin and I drove to Bangalore a couple of years back.

That was my longest car trip. We covered a distance of
nearly 500 kilometres in around 12 hours taking turns to
drive. It was truly an adventurous and unforgettable trip.
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25 Relaxing
1 What do you do to relax?
Personally, I find listening to music very relaxing. I sit in my

room, dim the lights and play some slow, soothing music. It
instantly calms me and creates a positive vibe. So whenev-
er I want to recharge my batteries, I tune in to my playlist of
some beautiful soulful songs.
2 Do you think sports is a good way to relax?

Certainly, sports is a surefire way to relax and re energise.
It also ups the fitness level.
3 Do you think vacation is a good time for you to relax?

Undoubtedly, vacation gives a much needed break from the
daily grind and also helps us to soothe our frayed nerves,
relax and unwind.
4 Do you think students need more time to relax?

Absolutely, students should get more time to relax as it is
refreshing and they can return to studies with renewed en-
ergy and vigour.
Regular breaks to relax will also boost their concentration.
26 Special Costumes
1 Do you like to wear special costumes?

I am not really interested in wearing costumes.There are
people who like to dress up in different sets of attires and
click pictures of themselves, like my cousin Deepu, who
has a Spider Man costume, which he purchased online.
2 Did you try any special costumes when you were young?
As a kid, I used to participate in many competitions. Hence,
as part of that, I remember wearing special costumes. I
remember dressing up as an angel once and as a tribal
woman on another occasion.
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3 When was the last time you wore a special costume?
The last time I wore a special costume was during Christ-

mas last year. I wore the costume of Santa Claus, just to
entertain my little nephews and nieces. I also carried a bag
full of goodies for them and they were thrilled to pieces.
4 Have you ever bought special costumes?

No, I have never purchased any special costumes. However
I have bought a joker mask.
27 Wallet
1 Do you use a wallet?
Wallet is a must- have for me. I keep all my valuables such
as my money, credit cards, identification documents and
business cards inside my wallet. Also, I fancy stylish wallets.
2 Have you ever lost a wallet?

In fact I was pickpocketed a few years back. I had boarded
a bus and it was crammed to capacity. I had to elbow my
way out through the pushing and jostling crowds, when I
reached my stop. I think that was when it got stolen.
3 Have you ever given a wallet to anyone as a gift?
Yes, wallets are one of my frequent go to gift options. That’s

because I know how useful they are and can be confident
that my gift will be appreciated.
4 Do your friends use a wallet?

Yes, I’ve seen all my friends using wallets. They keep their
essentials in it.
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28 Primary School
1 What did you like to do most in primary school?
Primary school was all about playing. There were swings,
slides and merry go rounds in the school and we couldn’t
wait to rush out after class to get on them. I was also fond
of the colouring classes, where we got to colour the books
with crayons or pencil colours.
2 How did you go to school in primary classes?

In primary school, my parents had arranged a van that
ferried about 10 of us from our apartments. The rides were
fun as we chatted, joked and laughed all the way up and
down. We had our fixed seats and did not like to give them
to others.
3 Did you like your primary school?

All of my school years, right from primary to high school
were the golden years of my life. It was a carefree time
when we just giggled, chatted non stop and had loads of
fun. There was no stress or pressure in primary classes.
Our teachers were loving and sweet and so school was a
second home for us.
4 What did you do in your free time in primary school?

During leisure time in primary school, I was out on my
voyages of discovery, as I was quite fascinated by the tow-
ering school building. So my friends and I used to scan the
biology lab, the huge library and the sports room. All these
places aroused my interest and free hours were the perfect
time to explore.
29 Environment Protection
1 Would you like to work in a company related to environ-
mental protection?
I love to be involved in protecting my planet and I would

definitely like to work with a government body or an NGO
dealing with safeguarding the environment.
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2 How can we protect the environment?
There are various effective ways to save the environment

and it should begin at an individual level. For instance,we
can promote reusable bags, recycle often, go paperless,
stop using bottled water and save electricity.
3 Do you think you have done enough to protect the envi-

ronment?
I haven’t done enough but I feel little baby steps from all of
us can bring in a sea change in the environment. In future
I’ll continue to do my bit in whichever way possible. I think
we can never say we have done enough. We need to make
environmental consciousness a part of our lifestyle.
4 Is environmental protection taught in schools?

Now steps are being initiated to incorporate environment
lessons in the school curriculum. Also teachers lead by
example to create environmental awareness.in the school.
Students are encouraged to reuse, reduce and recycle.
30 Your living area
Where are you living at the moment?
I live in a small town called Puthupally in the Kottayam Dis-

trict of Kerala.
How long have you been living there?

I have been living there for the past twenty years.
What do you like about your neighbourhood?

What I like about my neighbourhood is that it is a peaceful
and serene place and does not have the bustle of cities and
big towns. So it’s not noisy and congested, But we have all
the amenities we need, such as shops, good public trans-
port, a nice park, a theatre, healthcare facilities etc.
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What changes would you like to see in your hometown?

I would like to improve the waste management system in
my area. There is no proper and sustainable management
of waste which can have serious health and environment
consequences.
31 List
Do you make lists while shopping?

I always make a list when I need to go grocery shopping, as
I find it hard to remember all the items. I also feel it prevents
me from impulse buying and makes me focus on only the
things that I need.
Why is it that some people do not make lists?

It may be because they can make a mental note of all the
different items and they may be good at remembering them.
Do you make lists for work or study?

For my work, I make a daily to do list. That helps me priori-
tize important things, keeps me on tract and prevents wast-
age of time.
32 New Year
How do you celebrate New Year?
New Year is celebrated with great pomp and show with fam-
ily and friends,all busy preparing for new year’s eve party.
Bursting crackers,distributing sweets, conducting prayer
meetings are the common ways that we usher in the new
year.
Do you have any ceremonies to celebrate New Year in your

country?
I think different religions have their own ways of celebrating
new year. In Kerala, the festival Vishu ushers in the new
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year according to the Kerala calendar. Likewise Baisakhi

marks the Sikh new year.
Why do people think New Year is a new beginning?

New Year marks a beginning, a start of a whole new year
so people also tend to start afresh with renewed vigour and
let bygones be bygones.
33 Decorating your house

How have you decorated your house?
I love decorating my room and always try to explore new
ideas. I have attractive wall art and lamps to add an aes-
thetic touch. I have also kept an indoor plant and try to play
with colours to make my room look bright. So I have brightly
coloured cushions and floor mats.
Do people like to decorate their houses?

While artistically inclined people always keep thinking of
ideas to spruce up their living spaces, others may decorate
their house during festive time or on some occasions which
call for a celebration.
What is your favourite colour for decorating your house?

I love bright vibrant shades more than pastels. My favour-
ites are orange, yellow and blue.
What are the new trends in decoration?

I think hanging lamps and lanterns are becoming quite
trendy home decor items in my area. People are also pur-
chasing paintings to hang on the walls of their houses.
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34 Window view
What can you see from the window of your room?
The window of my room faces a park bustling with activity
from dawn to dusk. So I get to watch some really interesting
scenes from my window. I see the laughter club members in
the morning practising their loud laughing or joggers jog-
ging along the walkways and many other such scenes.
Do you like to watch the scenery from your window?

I love watching scenery from my window, it uplifts me after
the grinding routine. Also watching people as they go about
their different activities in the park keeps me amused.
Would you like to live in a house with beautiful window

views?
Absolutely, in fact it’s a ‘must have.’ I would prefer a window
that opens to a garden, a river or just plenty of greenery.
How do you feel when you cannot see any beautiful view
from your window?
I feel miserable and everything seems so monotonous.
35 Tidiness
Are you a tidy person?
Absolutely. I am a tidy person, I always want my surround-
ings to be neat and orderly. Infact, I am obsessed with tidi-
ness.
Do you think that it is necessary to be tidy?

Being tidy goes a long way in maintaining health, a good
frame of mind and acts as a catalyst to a successful life.
Do you think people should be tidy all the time?

Yes, people should be tidy all the time at least to a minimal
degree if not to a fetish extent because it is a habit worth
developing.
Do you keep your workplace tidy?

I am a tidy person so my workplace is always neat, with
things in the proper place and every thing well ordered.
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Are you tidier at work or at home?

Comparatively, I think I work more towards keeping my
surroundings tidy at home because I have the freedom to
take care of every detail. However, at work I am confined to
a small cabin and hence have less freedom.
Are your family members tidy?

They are not tidy but my habits of extreme tidiness have
rubbed off on them now.
36 Reading
Do you like reading?
I am an avid reader and whenever I get time I’m voracious-
ly devouring all kinds of books.
Do you like reading at home or at other places?

I am a book lover so the place doesn’t really matter, I am
engrossed be it home or any other place.
In what places do you find it difficult to read?
I am not able to read when there is too much disturbance
and jarring sound in and around my place. It distracts me a
lot.
37 Waking up early
Do you wake up early every day?
Yes I am a morning person. I love the quiet tranquil
morning moments of the morning.
Do you get up early on weekends also?

Yes, now waking up early has become a way of life, I
cannot get detached from it, infact now my body is wired
that way, it wakes me up early morning daily.
What do you usually do when you wake up early?

Waking up early gives me plenty of time to do things my
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way. I start my day with yoga and meditation. Then I tidy the
house.
38 Singing
Do you like to sing?
Yes, l like singing and I have a sweet voice.
Are you a good singer?

Yes I am a good singer.I am able to carry a tune well and I
have a melodious voice.
What kind of songs do you like to sing?

I prefer slow melodies to fast songs. I am very fond of film
songs especially songs of Shreya Goshal and Sonu Kakkar
Is it difficult to sing well?

Yes I think singing well is a talent and not everyone has this
talent.
Would you like to be a singer?

No, I don’t want to be a singer. Actually I get conscious
when I sing in front of others and my tune goes haywire.
39 Staying Happy
Is there anything that made you happy lately?
Yes recently I lost two kilos and that was a great news for
me, since I have been working out lately in the hope of
shedding some extra weight that I had gained.
What do you do to stay happy?
I am basically a happy and cheerful person, so I dont have

to do anything to stay happy. I always tend to look at the
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positive side of things and so I remain quite unruffled even

through difficult times.
Can you stay happy all the time?

There are occasions when I feel hurt, upset or sometimes
annoyed. Life is not always hunky dory and so it may not
be possible to stay happy all the time, but I do bounce back
quite soon.
Is it important to be happy?
Absolutely. Happiness makes our life more enjoyable. Hap-
py people are more productive, healthy and make better
relaionships. I feel they also enjoy longer lives.
40 Farm
Have you ever visited a farm?
Yes my uncle back in the countryside has a large farm,
where he grows vegetables and fruits.
What kind of farm do you like?

I like farms where animals are reared. I have seen people
rearing cows, goats etc.
Have you ever done any farm work?

I have never got any opportunity to get involved in farm
work. I know farm work is quite strenuous and laborious.
Often labourers are hired to manage the different types of
work in a farm.
Do you think farming is important?

Definitely. We depend on farming for food crops, dairy, veg-
etables, fruits and livestock products.
Does your country still use traditional methods of farming?

No, my country has made rapid strides in farming and
agriculture, with the use of modern technology. From mod-
ern farming equipment, pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers
to genetically modified foods and factory farming, we have
come a long way.
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41 Furniture
Do you have a lot of furniture in your house?
I am not very fond of cramped interiors, so I have very
minimal furniture in my house. We just have the most es-
sential pieces of furniture such as sofas, beds, a dining
table, a book shelf and a few tables.
Which among them is your favourite?

My favourite is an old teak wood table with beautiful carv-
ings on the sides.
What kind of furniture would you like to buy?

I would like to buy some cane furniture as I am very fond
of it. I would like to buy some chairs to put in our patio.
42 Stages of life
Do you like your current stage of life?
Yes, absolutely. I am working at the moment and I enjoy the

freedom, the challenges and the opportunities it offers me, I
feel every day is a new learning experience.
In which stage of life were you the happiest?
It is hard for me pick a particular stage, but I feel childhood

days were the most thrilling. Without a care in the world, en-
joying the pampering , love care and affection of my parents
and other relatives, childhood was truly a golden period.
What are your plans for the next stage of your life?
I plan to seek opportunities abroad and step into a new ca-
reer. I think this would be a milestone in my life and a door
to rich and exciting experiences.Though it will bring chal-
lenges, I think eventually it will help me grow, both in my
career and as a person.
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43 Handwriting
Do you usually write by hand?
Actually it is very rarely that I need to write by hand as I do

most of my work on my laptop. So I would say typing has
replaced writing for the most part.
Do you prefer to write by hand or type?

I prefer typing, I find it faster and more convenient. I am
able to type at a high speed and typing on the computer
enables us to easily correct errors.
Writing with a pen is slower and mistakes cannot be
erased.
Do you think handwriting will be replaced by typing on com-

puters?
I see a strong likelihood of handwriting being replaced with

typing. Many schools have removed cursive handwriting
from their curriculum in lower classes as it has almost no
practical use. I think writing is likely to be limited to just a
shopping list or a post it note.
Can you tell someone’s personality from his or her hand-

writing?
Yes it is possible to identify certain aspects of a person’s
nature from his handwriting. There is a whole science re-
lated to handwriting analysis. There are many companies
that use handwriting analysts or graphologists to help them
identify better candidates while recruiting.
44 Neighbours
Do you like your neighbours?
Yes I am very fond of my neighbours. There are four fam-
ilies near my house and almost all of them have children
who are my age and so I enjoy their company.
Are your neighbours close to each other in your country?
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Yes people generally try to have good neighbourly rela-

tions in my country. However at times there are disputes
between neighbours due to property issues or other misun-
derstandings.
What is your neighbourhood like?

My neighbourhood is not very congested. We have only
four houses near ours. We have a warm and friendly rela-
tionship with our neighbours and we all are ever ready to
help each other. We always try to keep our neighbourhood
clean and beautiful.
How can neighbours be helpful;?

Neighbours are the people closest to us in times of emer-
gencies. If I run out of groceries, which I urgently need, I
can always borrow from my neighbour. My neighbour who
is a teacher in a school often helps me when I face diffi-
culties with my studies. So I think there are plenty of ways
neighbours can be of help.
Do you think your neighbourhood is a good place for

children?
Yes I think so as it is not too congested and there are open
spaces for children to run around and play.
Do you think it is important to have good relationship with

our neighbours?
Cultivating a good relationship with our neighbours is very
essential. It enriches our social life as we have can have
fun sharing meals, going for outings or doing work togeth-
er. Neighbours can also protect our homes because they
would be aware if they see something suspicious.
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45 Remembering names
Is it easy for you to remember people’s names?
I must confess that I am very poor at remembering names.
However, though I tend to forget most names, some names
stick to my memory. I think it may be because the name is
rare or has a meaning.
How do you feel when people don’t remember your name?

It can be insulting when people you have met and interact-
ed with on many occasions do not remember your name. It
almost seems like an affront to me. However I don’t expect
people to remember my name if I have just met them once
or twice.
How do you remember people’s names?

Frankly I don’t have any strategies to remember names. I
just happen to remember some, while I completely forget
others.
46 New activities
Do you like to try out new activities?
Yes absolutely. Recently I started learning French and also
signed up for Zumba dancing. I think doing the same things
puts you in a rut and make life dull and dreary.
What activities did you like to do as a child?

As a child, I loved being outdoors. That was the age be-
fore smartphones and mobile games had appeared on the
scene and we enjoyed simple pleasures like climbing trees,
plucking fruit and playing simple games.
What activities would you like to try?

I am very keen to try adventure sports. I have already start-
ed doing my research on bungee jumping and I would like
to try it in the near future.
Would you like to try new activities on your own or with

friends?
298
I would prefer to explore new activities with my friends

which would probably reduce the stress and the nervous-
ness.
47 Trees
What kind of trees do you have in your hometown?
The most common tree in my state is the coconut tree, from
where my state takes its name. Other tree include fruit trees
like guava, jackfruit, and mango.
Do you like planting trees?

In school we used to have tree planting drives, when we
used to dig pits and plant saplings. However since I live in
the city I don’t get opportunities to plant trees, although I
am interested in doing so.
What are the benefits of planting more trees?

Trees purify the air by providing oxygen and thus combat
the effects of climate change. They offer shade, make the
place cool and enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces.
They also serve as homes to a large number of birds and
other creatures.
48 History
Did you enjoy studying history as a child?
I used to feel terribly bored during history classes in my

school. We began studying history from the sixth standard
and we had to learn about the different empires, the rulers,
the period of their reign etc. And memorising all this was
very tedious and boring.
Have you ever watched movies related to history?

299
Yes, I have watched several movies based on history, both

in my local language Malayalam and other languages like
Hindi and English such as Gandhi, Mangal Pandey, etc.
When was the last time you read a book on history?
I have never read any history based book after my school

days. We had a separate text for history in school which
covered important events of not just Indian history but also
,world history,
Do you think history is important?

Absolutely. The study of history connects us with our past. It
helps us understand our identity and also our culture.
49 Picnic
Did you go for picnics as a child?
Yes, we used to go for picnics regularly. We used to pack up

our food and head to a park or the lake nearby and spend
time just enjoying ourselves.
Do you go now?
I have not gone on a picnic for a long while now. When

we plan outings, our destinations are usually the mall, the
theatre or a restaurant. Picnics have lost their charm for me
nowadays.
Where do you go for a picnic?
When I was a child, we used to go to parks or the lakeside

for picnics. They gave the perfect ambience for a pleasant
and relaxing time in the lap of nature.
What is the difference between eating at a picnic and eat-

ing at home?
Eating at a picnic is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. It is

300
a huge change from the usual dining room and dining table
to just spread a mat under a tree and have your food with
the chirping of birds in the background.
50 Mathematics
When did you start learning Maths?
I started studying Maths from class 1.
Was it easy for you?

For me Maths has always been a tough nut to crack, I am
not among the whiz kid minority, so it was always a
struggle to sit through the Maths classes.
Did you like your Maths teacher?

Frankly, I never liked my Maths teacher. She was biased
and partial. She had a handful of favourites and mostly
ignored the rest of the
51 Text Messaging
Do you like texting?
I really like texting. Text messages can be exchanged even
when people are busy with their work. A hi ,a smiley or a
brief message to our loved ones is a nice way to keep in
touch when we don’t have the time to call and chat.
Do you prefer sending or receiving messages?

I prefer sending messages.
Maybe because I have the habit of sharing little nuggets of
news, forwards, videos and so many other stuff. Life is all
about sharing.
In what circumstances is it better to make a call rather than

301
send a message?
In crucial matters and also when a situation needs imme-
diate attention, it would be better to call rather than send a
message.
Have you ever got a text message which was confusing?

Some messages are really confusing and I’m left wondering
how to respond. It’s an awkward situation. Sometimes I may
not be able to guess the tone of a message, whether it is
harsh, angry or just hurriedly typed.
52 Recycling
Do you recycle?
Yes we have scrap pickers, who take items for recycling
especially glass and paper.
What kind of things do you recycle?

I recycle and I feel we should all drastically improve our
recycling habits.
90% of my kitchen waste consists of recyclable food scrap.
So for me, composting is the most undemanding and
eco-friendly way to recycle food waste.
Why is it good to recycle?
Recycling is crucial to the future health of our planet.

Recycling conserves important raw materials and protects
natural habitat.
53 Taking a break
Do you like taking short breaks or long ones?

I like taking short breaks which are refreshing and rejuve-
nating. They help me recharge my batteries so that I can
catch up with the neglected work quickly.
302
Why do we need breaks?

Caught in a frenetic pace, juggling ever-increasing work-
load and responsibilities, a break comes as a shot in the
arm. After a break, we come back with renewed vigour. A
break is very essential for physical and emotional health.
How often do you take breaks?

I take several small breaks at my workplace and one an-
nual long break to spend some quality time with my family
away from the bustling metropolis.
54 Plans
Do you make plans? When?

Yes I plan. In fact everything, from the smallest detail to big
endeavours. When I plan and visualise, the execution be-
comes easy.
Is it easy to stick to your plans?

No it’s not easy to stick to your plans. It needs a lot of disci-
pline. If we are not organised, all our plans get derailed.
Why is planning good?

Planning is good. It is the essence of good performance.
Planning helps to respond rather than react. It is a catalyst
to achieving our goals.Planning also keeps stress at bay.
303
55 Fishing
Do you like fishing?
I don’t like fishing because of my ingrained aversion to wa-
terborne activities. Besides, I am very clumsy and fishing
requires a lot of precision.
Is fishing a good hobby?
Fishing is a great hobby. The serenity and calmness that

you feel while sitting on the banks of a river catching fish,
makes you forget even the most complex problems and
worries. It ups our happiness quotient and recharges our
batteries.
Do you like to eat fish?
I love eating fish. Fish is the ideal non - vegetarian food. It

is loaded with protein and because of its nutritive value, it
is highly recommended.
56 Water Sports
Do you like water sports?

Frankly I am not a huge fan of water sports. I don’t know
swimming, so I like to stay away from water. So all kinds of
water sports are quite scary for me.
Would you like to try any water sport?
Although water sports of all forms fill me with fear and

dread, I am keen to try out scuba diving. From the time a
friend of mine shared her scuba diving experience, I have
been very excited and eager to have that kind of thrilling
experience. But I will have to overcome my fears first.
Are any water sports popular in your country?

Yes, there are numerous states in India such as Kerala,
304
Goa, Andaman and Nicobar islands with water bodies such

as seas, rivers, lakes etc in my country due to which they
are popular water sport destinations. The most preferred
ones are scuba diving, white water rafting, surfing kayaking
57 Running
Do you like running?
Frankly I dislike running. I am not the athletic type of per-

son and I am quite lazy to run. Also, since I am quite out of
shape, running is really hard for me and I get breathless
Where do people usually go for running?
Some people run on the streets. There are many parks

in our area. For runners there are trail and road routes for
running inside the parks . There are also many who do their
daily runs on a treadmill.
Have you ever run a long distance?
Usually in schools, our physical education teacher would

force us to join for the athletic competitions like 100 metres
or 200 metres races. But during my college days I once
participated in a mini marathon, which extended over a 2
km stretch along the main road in my city. It was an unfor-
gettable experience. I didn’t think I would be able to finish
the race. Half way through it , my legs and back were throb-
bing, but I felt proud that I managed to reach the finish line.
Do you like watching running races on television?

Yes, I enjoy watching athletics on television, especially
during the World Athletics Championships and the Olym-
pics. The Commonwealth Games also have numerous
racing competitions such as the running races, hurdle race,
relay race, marathon etc.
305
58 Cake/ Desserts
Do you like having dessert?
I love desserts. I have a sweet tooth, so I find them irresist-
ible . India has such a variety of traditional sweets to pick
from.
Do you like eating cakes?

Absolutely. Cakes are so mouth watering and delicious and
they come in so many varieties of flavours and styles that
everyone enjoys them. I think no occasion is complete with-
out a cake, be it a birthday, a wedding or just a simple cele-
bration.
Have you ever made any cakes?

I recently bought an oven and tried baking some simple
basic cakes like vanilla cake and chocolate cake. I just
followed the recipe and made sure the measurements were
right. I was quite delighted that my cakes came out well.
In your culture do people usually eat dessert at the end of

dinner?
Yes, in India we have a tradition of having dessert after
dinner. There are a wide range of amazing desserts in the
Indian cuisine such as fruit based desserts or those pre-
pared with milk and nuts. The rice pudding is also a much
liked sweet delicacy.
59 Science
Is it important to study science?
The study of science is definitely very beneficial. Science

subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology etc help us to get
an in depth understanding of our environment , our sur-
roundings, the earth, the animal and plant kingdom, our
body .
306
Today’s world is highly advanced scientifically and techno-

logically, and so scientific literacy is very important. Study-
ing science also fosters critical thinking skills and problem
solving skills.
Another positive is that it opens the door to many careers
and so a strong foundation in science is very important.
60 Laughter/ Jokes
When was the last time you laughed?
I think it was just last evening. We were watching a comedy

show and it was so hilarious that I almost fell off my chair
laughing.
Do you like watching funny shows?
I enjoy watching comedy shows. After a long day, it is very

relaxing to just sit back on my couch and get a dose of
humour. My favourites are series like ‘Friends,’ ‘Mr Bean’
,shows by stand up comedians like Kapil Sharma, and
competitions like the Great Indian Laughter Challenge etc.
Do you like to make people laugh?
I like making people laugh, sometimes by cracking a joke,

saying something witty or may be just making a funny face.
Finding something really humorous even in mundane situa-
tions is a way to have a lot of smiling faces around you.
307
61 Spending time alone
Do you like to spend time by yourself?
Yes, I think times of solitude are very relaxing. You can

reflect on things and think deeper about matters. Also
when we are very upset or disturbed, time alone can help
calm us down. We can also try out new things and explore
new activities.
What do you usually do when you spend time by yourself?

I enjoy going on solitary walks. I like to read or listen to mu-
sic when I am on my own.
62 Haircut
How often do you have a haircut?
My hair grows very fast and so I go to the hairdresser ev-
ery month to get my hair trimmed.
Have you ever had an unhappy haircut experience?

Yes,I’ve had many experiences when I was totally disap-
pointed after my visit to the hairdresser.
Do you like to have your haircut?

Yes, I do. It helps me look well groomed because my hair
grows fast and I tend to look a little shaggy if I don’t visit the
barber once a month.
308
63 Parks
Do you like parks?
Yes ,I find parks really wonderful. They are green spaces
that enhance the beauty of communities. They are open
areas where people can gather to play, relax and enjoy and
spend refreshing time in the lap of nature. It helps people
to be active especially in a time when people tend to spend
too much time indoors and lead sedentary lives, leading to
many health disorders.
Do you think there are enough parks or gardens in your

hometown?
I live in a small town and so we just have one park in our
area. It is quite a large area and I can say it forms the heart
of the community.
Do you think it is important for cities to have parks?

Parks are definietly vital in urban areas. In the midst of the
traffic congestion and concrete structures, these green
spaces help urban dwellers relax and unwind. They help
people get much needed physical exercise and socialise
witth each other and thus we can say they foster physical
and psychological health.
64 Sports
What kind of sports do you practice?
Frankly I don’t practice any sports nowadays. My days are
usually very busy and by the time I return from work, I am
too exhausted. I must confess I am in pretty bad shape. I
would like to start playing some sport or work out in a gym.
Did you do much sport as a child?

Yes, I was a good basketball player and I was part of our
school team and we won many competitions. However once
I moved to college, my studies, assignments and projects
309
took priority and sports took a backseat.
How do you keep healthy?

I go for walks in a park nearby. I take a brisk thirty minute
walk early in the morning and also try to stick to a healthy
nutritious diet.
Is it important to do sport?
Yes absolutely. It keeps people active , fit and healthy and
a sound body means a sound mind. Also sports is a nice
way to relax, unwind and reduce stress.
65 Patience
Do you think patience is important?

I think patience is a vital virtue. It keeps us peaceful and
calm when we do not get the desired results immediately.
There are many occasions in life when we need to exercise
this quality. It may be while waiting in a queue, when we
are stuck in a traffic block or when dealing with irritating
people.
Have you ever lost your patience?

Yes I have lost patience several times. I find it very difficult
to wait in long queues, which really tests my patience. I tend
to lose patience when I am trying to teach my younger sib-
lings and they don’t get it the first time.
Were you patient as a child?

I think I was totally spoilt as a child and expected everything
to go my way. I wanted everything immediately, whether it
was a toy, a new dress or something to eat.
310
66 Plans
Do you make plans? When?
Yes I plan everything, from the smallest detail to big en-
deavours. When I plan and visualise, the execution be-
comes easy.
Is it easy to stick to your plans?

No it’s not easy to stick to our plans. It needs a lot of
discipline. If we are not organised, all our plans get derailed.
Why is planning good?

Planning is good. It is the essence of good performance.
Planning helps to respond rather than react. It is a catalyst
to achieving our goals.Planning also keeps stress at bay.
67 Art
Do you like art?
I have a keen aesthetic sense and I am very attracted to all
forms of art - be it drawings, paintings, sculpture, mural art
or tribal art forms.
Are art classes important for children?

Art should be included in the classroom curriculum. It is
crucial in creating a well rounded and well prepared learn-
er. Art boosts creativity and imagination. Teaching through
art simplifies learning. Art education can also be a means
to connect students with their own culture as well as with
the wider world.
What kind of paintings do Indian people like?

Indians tend to like pleasant paintings that enhance their
decor. They like paintings of natural objects like flowers,
trees, the sunset etc. Some people are also fond of por-
traits.
311
68 Numbers
Are you good at memorizing numbers?
No, not at all. I am very bad at remembering numbers.
When I have to remember numbers, I save them on my
phone.
Do you have a favourite number?

I like the number 7, probably because my birthday falls on
the seventh.
Are you good at maths?

I am quite bad at maths. I dreaded the subject in school
and struggled a lot with my Maths topics like fractions, trig-
onometry, geometry etc. There were some students in my
class, who were brilliant in Maths, but for me it was a night-
mare.
Would you like to have a job dealing with numbers?

Since Maths has never been my cup of tea, I would like to
stay away from jobs that require number crunching, such as
banking, finance, accounts etc.
For what all purposes do we use numbers?

Numbers are used in all spheres of life. Our life revolves
around numbers from the time we are born. For calling
people on a phone, calculations, transactions, codes, ed-
ucation, finance management, business, construction etc
the list is endless. The use of numbers is inevitable and
numbers are ubiquitous.
69 Scenery
Does your hometown have beautiful views?
Yes my hometown is a charming place blessed with scenic
beauty. There is lush greenery everywhere . You can see
diverse vegetation, small rivers, coconut trees, exotic birds
etc.
Why do people take pictures of beautiful scenery?

312
Landscape photography is something everyone loves to do,

especially now that taking a picture is so much easier with
improved technology. It is a nice way to capture the beauty
of the place. Some like to take pictures to explore their pho-
tography skills and also to share them on social networking
sites.
313
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Speaking Guessbook (September to

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING

Extensive range of vocabulary, idioms, phrasal verbs, complex sentence structures

How it can help you

1 A time you were stuck in a traffic jam ................................................................... 13

66 Describe a time when you woke up ...................................................................183

Warm Up Questions (Part-1).................. 239

11 Collecting things ................................................................................................... 247

46 New activities ..................................................................................................... 268

Sep to Dec 2022 Guesswork

1. Describe a time when you had to go to see

2. Describe an appointment that was put ahead

Well, we fix a time for appointments many times. It is important to attend a

3. Describe a handmade gift you gave to a

4. Describe how you behaved in a stressful

Well, I have experience of a number of stressful situations in which I felt

When she asked me for my passport, I checked my pocket. Unfortunately, I

Then, my phone had started ringing, It was an unknown number. I received

Eventually, by the grace of God, I had found my passport. It was a very

5. Describe a natural calamity that you fear

Well, natural calamities or disasters occur due to an imbalance in the

Eventually, this natural calamity becomes the cause of death of many

6. Talk about an own thing which would like to

7. Describe a situation you were not allowed to

8. Describe an outdoor sport that you haven’t

Q-1 Do you play any sports at night?

Q-2 What are the benefits of playing sports?

9. Describe a faraway place that you would like

On 23rd March, several functions organize in India, especially in Punjab.

10. A visit you made using public transport

Well, every day I go to college in public transport. According to me, public

According to our plan, we reached the bus station in my hometown Moga.

Moreover, I prayed to God for the strong relationship between us three

11. Describe plant grown in your country you

Firstly, Aloe Vera is used in various medicines such as antibiotics, anti

12. Describe idea of your dream vacation

well, everyone love vacations and I am one of them. I love to travel to

13. Describe a person who works on

It is quite evident that the Degradation of an environment is getting grimmer

About three months ago, Mr. John had organized an awareness

At the end of this awareness programme, Youth club distributed plants to

14. Describe an activity you enjoy doing when

Well, there are a number of activities which I love to do when there is no

Moreover, sometimes I cook special dishes for my family members as per

15. Talk about your teenager friend

Her name is Manpreet Kaur. She is my classmate. She is very attractive

Moreover, she is a well-educated human being. She is 17 years old. She is

16. Talk about something you would like to get

I want to replace it because it has a big screen with HD picture quality.so it

17. Describe the time when someone took a

I had gone to wonderland Jalandhar in the month of June just after my

18. Describe a time when you saw lots of

19. Talk about a wish that you could not

I love to do the cooking and I want to share my own recipes or technique of

20. Talk about an English lesson you enjoyed

I learned a plethora of skills from this class. I was introduced to numerous

So this was all about an English lesson that I enjoyed.

21. Describe a shop that has opened in your