Cue-Cards Jan-April PDF

KANGAROOZ
IMMIGRATION & ENGLISH SCHOOL
SPEAKING PART – 2 BOOKLET

CUE-CARDS
IELTS | PTE | SPOKEN | CD-IELTS
Address: Vishal Nagar, 30ft Road, Near Bus stand, Sri Muktsar Sahib
91428-91427, 98727-65065 Kulbir Bhullar(Director)
2
Table of Contents
1. Describe something that you did with someone/ a group of people
2. Describe a daily routine that you enjoy
3. Describe a place you visited where the air was polluted
4. Describe an actor or actress whom you admire
5. Describe a person you would like to study or work with
6. Describe a time when you were late
7. Describe an advertisement that you don’t like
8. Describe a person who inspired you to do something interesting
9. Describe a website which helped you to do something / website you visit often
10. Describe a piece of good news you heard from others
11. Describe a place where there was a lot of noise
12. Describe something you taught to your friend/relative
13. Describe your experience when you changed your school/ Describe your first day at
school
14. Describe a place/ country in which you like to live/ work for a short time
15. Talk about an interesting old person you met recently
16. Describe a piece of technology that you find difficult to use
17. Describe a historical period you would like to know more about
18. Describe an unusual meal that you had
19. Describe an achievement/success you are proud of
20. Talk about a thing you complained about something (but finally got a good result)
21. Describe when someone gave you something you really wanted /a gift your received
22. Describe a development in your country like shopping Centre, park etcetera
23. Describe a time when you had to lend something to a person you know
24. Describe a person you met at a party and enjoyed a conversation with
25. Describe an area in your home where you feel relaxed
26. Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free time when you were young
27. Describe a course that you want to learn / study you would like to do in future/
something that you would like to learn in the future
28. Describe a character from a movie
91428-91427, 98727-65065 Kulbir Bhullar (Director)
3
29. Describe an English class/lesson that you enjoyed
30. Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded
31. Describe an object you find particularly beautiful (For example, a painting, sculpture,
piece of jewelry/furniture, etc.
32. Describe a time you used your cellphone/ smartphone to do something important
33. Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college
34. Describe something that surprised you and made you happy
35. Describe a photo that you took and are proud of
36. Describe a problem you had while shopping online or in a store
37. Describe a time when you saw a lot of plastic waste (e.g. in a park, street, etc.)
38. Describe a time when you needed to search for information
39. Describe a person you know who is from a different culture
40. Describe a time you made a decision to wait for something
41. Describe a time when you received money as a gift
42. Talk about a TV show you like to watch
43. Describe a person who you believe dresses well
44. Describe a person who likes to grow plants
45. Describe a time you had a disagreement with someone
46. Describe a house/apartment that someone you know lives in
47. Describe a place where you go to do outdoor activities or play a sport
48. Describe a city you would recommend as a nice place to live (not your hometown)
49. Describe a time when someone asked for your opinion
50. Describe a time when you missed an appointment
51. Describe a time you were very busy
52. Describe a childhood friend
53. Describe something that you have shared with others (or another person)
54. Describe a story or a novel that was particularly interesting to you
55. Describe a movie you would like to watch again
56. Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic jam
57. Describe an invention that has changed how people live
58. Describe a family member whom you would like to work with in the future
59. Talk about an important river or lake in your country or hometown
4
60. Talk about a traditional object of your country or Talk about a traditional product of
your country that you bought
61. Describe a positive change in your life
62. Talk about an important/Special event you celebrated
63. Describe a time when you observed the stars
64. Describe a plant, vegetable or crop that you are familiar with
65. Describe a friend you like to talk with
66. An interesting neighbor
67. Describe a competition you would like to take part in
68. Talk about a special day which was not that expensive or on which you didn’t have to
spend a lot of money
69. Describe something that helps you concentrate
70. Describe an activity you do to keep fit
71. Describe something that saves your time
72. Describe something important that you lost
73. Describe an interesting thing you have learned from a foreign culture
74. Describe an occasion when you got positive feedback for work that you did
75. Describe a quiet place you like to spend your time in
76. Describe a popular/well-known person in your country
77. Describe a time when you helped a child
78. Describe something that surprised you
79. Describe an occasion when you lost something
80. Describe a creative person whose work you admire
81. Describe a difficult decision that you once made
82. Describe something that was broken in your home and then repaired
83. Describe a time when you organized a happy event successfully
84. Describe something you received for free
85. Describe a famous person that you are interested in
86. Describe a toy you liked in your childhood
87. Describe an exciting book that you enjoy reading
5
1. Describe something that you did with someone/ a

group of people
You should say
- What it was?
- Who you did it with?
- How long it took you to do this?
- And explain why you did it together?
 One of the most memorable activities that I did with my school friends was a weekend
camping trip.
 We had been planning for this trip for weeks, and we were all excited to finally be able to
spend some quality time together in the great outdoors.
 The trip started early on a Friday morning, when we all met at a designated location to pack
our gear and set off on our journey.
 We had planned to camp at a nearby hill station called Kasauli, and we had all brought our
own tents, sleeping bags, and other essentials.
 As we drove to the hill station, we chatted and laughed, eager to start our adventure.
 Once we arrived at the hill station, we set up our campsite and started to explore the area.
 We hiked through the forest, taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying the fresh air.
 We stopped to have a picnic lunch by a stream, and we even went swimming in a nearby lake.
 The evenings were spent around the campfire, telling stories and roasting vegetables and
meat.
 We laughed and joked, and it was a great way to bond with each other.
 We even played games and sang songs; the memories of that night are still fresh in my mind.
 On the second day, we decided to go on a longer hike.
 We set off early in the morning, and the hike was challenging, but also very rewarding.
 We were able to see some amazing views from the top of the mountain, and we even came
across a waterfall.
 It was a great way to spend the day, and we were all proud of ourselves for making it to the
top.
 On the last day, we packed up our gear and said goodbye to the beautiful campsite.
 We all hugged each other, and promised to do it again soon.
 Overall, the camping trip was an unforgettable experience.
 The reason why we did it together was because it was a great way for my friends and I to
spend time together, and to bond in a way that we never had before.
 We were able to disconnect from the world for a little while and reconnect with each other
and with nature.
 It was a weekend filled with laughter, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime.
6
Part 3 Follow Up Questions

1. How do you get along with your neighbors?
I have a very good relationship with my neighbors as I have known them for more than 10 years now.
It almost feels like that they are part of our family now, as we spend a lot of time at each other’s
place. We support each other during both good and bad times. Sometimes I think that our neighbors
play a more important role in our lives as compared to our relatives.
2. How do neighbors help each other?

Neighbors can help each other in a variety of ways, such as by lending tools or household items,
watching each other's homes when one is away, assisting with household repairs or projects, offering
to take care of pets or children, and sharing gardening or cooking tips. They may also look out for one
another's safety and well-being, and provide emotional support during difficult times. Additionally,
neighbors may work together to improve the community through volunteerism or organizing
neighborhood events.
3. Do you think neighbors help each other more often in the countryside than in the city?
It's possible that neighbors may help each other more often in rural or suburban areas compared to
urban areas. The reason being that in rural or suburban areas, neighbors may have a greater sense
of community, and may be more likely to know each other personally, and therefore be more likely
to offer help when needed. Additionally, in rural and suburban areas, people may have more
opportunities to interact with each other, such as while working on shared projects or participating
in community events.
4. How do children learn to cooperate with each other?

Children learn to cooperate with each other through a combination of socialization, modeling, and
direct teaching. For example, they can learn cooperation by playing with other children, as they learn
to share toys, take turns, and work together to achieve a common goal.
5. Do you think parents should teach children how to cooperate with others? How?
Yes, I believe that parents play a vital role in teaching children how to cooperate with others.
Cooperation is an important life skill that is needed in a wide variety of contexts, such as in the family,
at school, in the workplace, and in the community. Children learn by example, so when parents
demonstrate cooperation and collaboration in their own relationships and daily activities, children
will learn how to do the same. Parents can also provide opportunities for children to practice
cooperation by setting up games and activities that require teamwork. Additionally, parents can
teach children the importance of listening to others' ideas and opinions, compromising, and taking
turns.
6. Do you think it's important for children to learn about cooperation?

Yes, it is very important for children to learn about cooperation. Cooperation is a key social skill that
is essential for success in many aspects of life. Children who learn to cooperate with others are more
likely to develop positive relationship and achieve academic success.
7
2. Describe a daily routine that you enjoy

You should say
- What it is
- Where and when you do it
- Who do you do it with
- Explain why you enjoy it
 I have many routines that I do every day, such as taking a bath, preparing breakfast for
myself and sometimes my parents, going for a walk, studying, going to the gurdwara, and so
on.
 Here I would like to talk about a daily routine that I really enjoy and look forward to.
 It is doing a 3-mile walk at home with Leslie Sansone.
 Leslie has her own walk at home app in which she has these daily walks for people of all age
groups.
 My aunt told me about it.
 I used to go for a morning walk, but could not go when it was too hot or too cold or raining
outside.
 So my routine was broken.
 I have been doing this walk daily for the last 1 year.
 I have the app on my phone, but I prefer to open the webpage on my laptop as the screen is
bigger.
 Sometimes my mother joins me in the walk.
 We do it in our living room as it is very spacious.
 I enjoy it because it gives me a feeling that I have something for my body.
 I used to be a bit overweight, but now I have lost around 5 kg and my body shape also looks
and feels much better.
 Earlier I used to feel lazy and tired, but now I feel much energetic and healthier.
 I also suffered insomnia, and would toss and turn in bed for a long time before I actually fell
asleep.
 Now, I am asleep within minutes of touching my head on the pillow.
 Because of a good night’s sleep, I have more concentration in my studies too.
 This walk can be done any time of the day, but I like to start my day with it.
 Sometimes, if my morning is busy, I do it in the afternoon or evening.
 There are many other walking routines on the net, but I like walking with Leslie the most
 She adds upper body and abs exercises with the walk and that helps tone up the whole
body.
8
1. Should children have learning routines?

Yes, of course they should have learning routines. These add discipline to life. When children
follow routines, they learn to manage time. I believe all routines teach something, so can be a
learning experience. For example, a simple routine of a family meal can teach children many
things when they share their day’s happenings with their parents. They learn many social skills
and develop a bond with their family. A routine of going to bed in time can develop children’s
mental health.
2. What are the advantages of children having a routine at school?

There are many advantages of having routines at school. It gives students a predictable day at
school. So, they feel more confident and secure. It also saves time. They don’t have to ask
questions about what to do next. Teachers have already streamlined things for them. It becomes
easier for students to become focused and attentive.
3. Does having a routine make kids feel more secure at school?

Definitely, for younger children, a routine engages them in learning and helps them feel safe in
their environment, while it helps older children know what to expect and feel more
comfortable. This is why classroom routines are important.
Routines in the classroom make class time more enjoyable and productive. They offer students a
sense of stability. By having classroom rules and procedures that teachers set, their students will
know their expectations.
4. How do people’s routines differ on weekdays and weekends?

Weekdays and weekends are totally different, so their routines are also different. Weekday
routines are good, but on weekends people can afford some flexibility. Of course a person should
also plan weekends, otherwise they will disappear without giving you any time for fun and
relaxation. A weekend should relax a person after a busy week and also set him up for a successful
week ahead. Weekend should incorporate family time, cinema time, outing time, socializing time
and all what cannot be done on weekdays.
5. What daily routines people have at home?

People have daily routines like a family meal, a morning prayer, doing household chores together
and so on. Every family has their own routines set up, which make things easier for all members.
For example, in my family my father buys vegetables, fruits and grocery, while my mother does
the cooking and laundry. My father checks if all doors, windows and main gate is locked before
going to bed. I take my dogs out for a walk twice a day. These routines are more or less fixed.
6. What are the differences in people’s daily routines now and 15 years ago?
Life was slower and simpler in the past. People spent less time on social networking sites than in
the past, so they had more time to socialize. Routines included being with other people. Today’s
routines are more about spending time with oneself and technology.
9
3. Describe a place you visited where the air was

polluted.
You should say
- Where the place is
- When you visited.
- Why the air was not good.
- And explain how you felt about the place
• Pollution is everywhere nowadays.

• It’s difficult to find a place where the air is not polluted.
• Here, I would like to talk about the city which I visited, and I found that the air was very
polluted.
• Last year. I happened to go to New Delhi with my parents
• We had to go to visit some relatives.
• There was a function in their house.
• We went by train
• Then we hired a three wheeler.
• As we were sitting in the water, I started feeling a burning sensation in my eyes, and my
eyes started watering.
• I looked at my parents, and I felt that they were also feeling the same.
• We live in Punjab and a small town in Punjab, and I realized that the air is much less polluted
here than in Delhi.
• I noticed that the local people there were not having much problem.
• Perhaps their eyes were used to that pollution.
• Released to relatives house, and then washed my face with cold water.
• I felt some relief after that
• My uncle told me that Delhi is probably one of the most polluted cities in India.
• The main reason for this is that the development of Delhi has largely been unplanned, and
the industrial units in Delhi are spread over residential and commercial areas and not
designated areas.
• Another reason why Delhi is more air polluted, as compared to other cities is that it has a
landlocked geography.
• The Himalayas obstruct the escape routes of air.
• Stubble burning also contributes to the air pollution in the region
• During the winter months the stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan cause a
thick blanket of Smog cover over Delhi.
• Air pollution affects human health severely
• There is a higher prevalence of chronic bronchitis where there is more air pollution
• I was happy that I was just visiting Delhi and that I was not living there permanently.
• I really feel pity on my relatives who permanently reside in Delhi.
10
1. Is there more pollution now than in the past?

Yes, there is more air pollution now than in the past. New industries are opening every day.
Strict rules and regulations have not been laid down for effluent treatment. Industries are
not planned well to be opened in designated areas. So, all this development is leading to
more air pollution now than in the past.
2. In what ways can the air pollution be reduced effectively?

Many steps can be taken to reduce the level of air pollution. The government can lay down
strict rules and regulations for effluent treatment. New industries should only be allowed to
open in designated areas. It is not the responsibility of only the government, but the people
also to follow the rules and regulations nicely.
3. Do you think the city is cleaner or dirtier than the countryside? Why?
I think the cities are dirtier than the countryside. The main reason is that all the
development, the new industries are opening in the cities. The industrialists do not follow
the rules and regulations laid by the government nicely. Proper treatment of effluents is not
done. Another reason is that the population of cities is more than the countryside. So, more
vehicles are there in the cities which are also adding to the pollution. Not only air pollution,
noise pollution is also more in the cities than the countryside. So for all these reasons, I feel
that cities are more polluted than the countryside.
4. What can factories and power plants do to reduce pollutants?

Factories and power plants can do a lot to reduce pollution. The first thing they can do is
follow is the norms laid down by the government. For example, if the factory has a chimney,
the height of the chimney can be increased according to government regulations. New
industries should start with the alternative sources of energy, whereas the older ones can
switch to alternative sources of energy. These steps can go a long way in decreasing
pollution.
5. Do you think many companies have been forced to reduce pollutants?

Yes, many companies have been forced to reduce pollutants. However, unfortunately these
industries find loopholes to escape the penalties and so the steps taken by the government
are not proving very effective. When companies pay fines, they start thinking that now they
have the license to cause pollution.
6. Do you think the wind has any effect on pollution? How?

Yes, I think the wind helps to disperse the pollutants. That is why despite the high auto
mobile population, Chennai has less pollution than in Delhi. This is because the sea breeze
provides an effective entry and exit for dispersing pollutants. Delhi is landlocked, so the
whole pollution accumulates there only.
11
4. Describe an actor or actress whom you admire.

You should say,
- Who he/she she is.
- What he/she looks like?
- What kind of movies he/she appears in
- And explain why you admire this actor/actress.
• I am very fond of watching movies and TV series.

• And I admire all those actors and actresses who live their roles.
• Here, I will talk about one actor Pankaj Tripathi who has really impressed me with his acting.
• In all the roles he has played, it looks like he is the actual character and is just living his role.
• I saw a movie Kaagaz, in which he is a wedding bandmaster and really looks like one.
• Another movie in which he has a lead role is Sherdil.
• Then I happened to watch a crime TV series, Criminal justice, on Hotstar
• He has done the role of a lawyer in this series and has given a stellar performance.
• Another TV series ‘Mirzapur’ on Amazon Prime, where he plays a Mafia don is worth
watching.
• He is tall, fair, and must be in his mid-forties.
• He did minor roles in many movies, but he came into the limelight after the movie Gangs of
Wasseypur, in which he played a negative role.
• I didn’t know much about him apart from his role in these movies and TV series, but recently
I read his interview in the Times of India newspaper.
• He has a very humble background.
• He struggled a lot to get noticed as an actor.
• He said that he came to Mumbai in 2004, but no one noticed him before the Gangs of
Wasseypur happened in 2012.
• Now whenever I watch any old movie in which he has even a tiny role, I feel like watching
the movie to the end because of his role.
• He has done all sorts of roles and has added life to all the characters he has played.
• Many of his movies have been big hits, and he has made a place for himself in Bollywood.
• He has also acted in some Tamil films.
• Pankaj Tripathi is just fabulous and deserves all the success.
1. Are actors or actresses very interested in the work? Why?

Yes, I believe actors and actresses are very interested in their work because if they were not
interested, then they would not put their heart and soul into acting, and then they would
not be successful in their life.
2. Is being a professional actor or actress a good career?

Yes, I believe being a professional actor or actress is a good career. If one is successful, one
can earn much more than in any other profession. However, I also believe that it is a very
demanding profession. It requires total dedication and perseverance. Only then can an actor
or actress survive in today’s era of cutthroat competition.
12
3. What can children learn from acting?
Children can learn a lot from acting. Firstly, it builds confidence. While acting, they interact
with people of all ages and so it also builds social skills. It also improves their public speaking
skills which are very important in adult life. Acting also teaches them discipline and
patience. Children have to memorize lines, and so it also sharpens their memory.
4. Why do children like special costumes?

Children like special costumes because it makes them enter a world of fantasy, and they
imagine situations around those costumes which increase their creativity and give them
happiness.
5. What are the differences between actors or actresses who earn much and those who earn
little?
Actors who earn much enjoy name, fame, and a world of luxury, whereas those who earn
little suffer from frustration and depression and also may have suicidal tendencies
6. What are the differences between acting in the theatre and that in the film?
Acting in the theatre and that in the film is totally different. In theatre performance, actors
have just one chance to get it right. There are no retakes. Secondly, the distance between
the audience and the actor is much more in theatre acting. So, actors have to exaggerate
facial expressions and gestures so that every audience member can see what’s going on.
However, in films, the camera can get extremely close to the actor, which closes the gap
between the audience and the actors. So actors on film must use subtle, controlled and
natural expressions and body language. Finally, stage actors must deliver the same
performance with new energy each time they perform.
5. Describe a person you would like to study or work

with
- Who is that person?
- Why would you like to study with him/her?
- What will you study?
● I normally study alone as I find it hard to study with someone else.

● However, there are times when I don’t feel like studying and it helps if someone can
motivate me.
● Moreover, there are subjects like history, which I find really boring to study alone.
● In these cases, I do prefer studying with someone else.
● I had a classmate, Yash in 10th standard and many of my friends told me that he was a very
good study partner.
● So if I do get a chance, I would like to study with him.
● He has many unique qualities.
● First, he has a very good grasping power, so he was always able to understand things really
quickly.
● He is also very patient. I have heard from friends that he can sit and explain things for hours.
13
● One of my major problems in studying has been my inability to memorize facts and figures
and he is very good with mnemonics, which I feel like can be really helpful for me.
● I remember in school days, he made a mnemonic for the first twenty elements of the
periodic table and it became so popular in the school.
● Everyone used it and that’s why perhaps my entire class found chemistry very easy.
● That’s one more reason I would like to study with him. He is willing to share his knowledge.
● I have heard him saying many things in class that the best way to increase one’s knowledge
is to share knowledge.
● At the moment he is doing masters in economics in Canada.
● He is at the same college I am interested in attending.
● Hopefully, I would get a chance to meet him there and study something together.
1. What kind of people do you like to study or work with?

I like to study or work with people who are intelligent, cooperative and helpful. Moreover, I
don’t like procrastination, so I avoid working with people who don’t follow deadlines.
2. Do you think managers can be friends with their subordinates?

Yes, they can. But the subordinates must realize that such a friendship can be affected if
they become complacent at their work well because of their friendship.
3. Which one is more important for you at work, development in work related skills or the
recognitions from your supervisor?
Both are equally important for me. Development in work skills is very essential to progress
and get promotions at work. Recognition from supervisors gives me the impetus to work
even harder.
4. Should children be allowed to choose whom they want to sit with or should it be decided by
the teacher? Should children be allowed to choose their classmates?
In the primary classes, it should be decided by the teachers, because the teacher will know
better which students could be more helpful for each other if made to sit together. In senior
classes, children can figure out for themselves about whom to sit with.
5. Should children be involved in management activities of the school?

I believe that they should be. They feel important and they learn confidence. They can voice
out their problems and help the school authorities find answers for them.
6. How should one behave in office to get along well with others?
One should behave nicely. One should be polite to others and cooperate with them. One
should not do leg-pulling of other colleagues.
7. Is it important for children in school to get along well with others?

Yes, it is very important for children to get along well with others. If children learn how to
get along with their peers at school, they will learn how to get along with others in life when
they are older.
14
8. What kinds of people are popular at work?
I think people who stay calm and deal with issues without getting themselves or stressing
others are popular. For example, people who are able to employ humor during high
pressure situations to lighten the mood. At the same time, people need to be competent,
because otherwise feel that they have work extra to fulfill their responsibilities.
6. Describe a time when you were late

- When it was
- why you were late
- how you felt about being late
 I am a very punctual person and try to reach everywhere on time.
 I got this habit from my father, who is very disciplined and strict about being on time.
 He always told me that if you are punctual, it tells people that you are dependable.
 If I have an appointment, I take extra caution and try to reach at least 10 minutes before my
appointment time.
 But sometimes, even giving myself this extra time has not helped, and I have been late.
 I remember being late to my best friend’s wedding.
 My best friend ‘Ajay’ got married last year.
 He is the first one to get married among my friends, and we were all very excited.
 Indian wedding ceremonies are very lavish, and usually there are 2-3 functions before the
ceremony.
 A day before the wedding, there had been a sangeet ceremony where we danced and partied
till late night.
 I was tired in the morning but woke up and got ready on time to be with my friend on his
special day.
 The wedding ceremony was in the Gurudwara on the outskirts of our city, about 15kms from
my home.
 I had been there before with Ajay, and he had given me directions that time.
 I am bad with remembering directions and road names. I always rely on my cell phone’s map
app.
 On the wedding day I put the address in my phone and started from my home well on time.
 After 40 minutes, my mobile gps said that I had arrived at your destination but when I looked
around there was no Gurudwara and just some old buildings there.
 I realized that since the Gurudwara was new and away from the city, the map app had not
recognized the address and taken me to a different address.
 I got out and asked around. Fortunately, someone knew the exact location and told me the
directions.
 I had taken the wrong route and driven the opposite way.
 I was so annoyed with myself for not paying attention.
 I called another friend who was at the wedding and asked him to share his location in case I
got lost again.
 By the time I reached, the ceremony had already started, and about was half done.
 I felt terrible about being late to my friend’s wedding. Till this day he teases me that I, who is
always punctual, was late to his wedding.
15
1. Are you ever late for anything?/ Are you a punctual person?
No, I am a very punctual person. I value time and am never late for anything, unless it is due to
some unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances.
2. What excuses do you use when you are late?

I am usually not late for any meetings or appointments. However, if at all I am getting late due to an
unavoidable circumstance, then I inform the person I am meeting, beforehand. I don’t make
excuses.
3. Why are people often late for appointments or meeting?

I think it’s a problem with time management. For example, people often underestimate the
timethey need for something and they realize they need much more time when they start doing
it. Moreover, many people don’t consider being a little late to be wrong.
4. Do you think people are born with time management skills or they can be taught?
I think time management is something we acquire over time. It’s something we learn from our
parents. If parents are punctual and strict on time, children also become punctual. Moreover, it also
has a cultural aspect. For example, Japanese people are generally very punctual.
5. How would you teach your children time management?

Time management can be taught to children by helping them make a timetable and ensuring that
they follow it. Also, children can learn easily from stories or movies, which teach them a lesson
about the importance of time and managing it well. The parents are role models for children and
they should set a good example for their children.
6. Do old people and young people manage time in a similar way?

No, old and young people do not manage their time the same way. Old people have more life
experience and they understand the importance of time management better than the young
generation. The young people may be too impulsive or impatient and may not understand the
importance of planning ahead. Another difference is the way the younger generation manages
time. They make more use of technology and the old people may use the traditional methods, like a
timetable or writing down a list of tasks.
16
7. Describe an advertisement that you don’t like

- When did you see it?
- What is it about?
- Where you saw it/how you came to know about it?
- Why you didn’t like it
• Well, I generally don’t like to watch a lot of advertisements because I think they are a waste
of time.
• Although some ads are funny and informative but then there are some ads which can really
annoy or irritate people.
• And today, I would like to talk about one such advertisement which I really dislike whenever
it’s on air.
• It is the ad of a toilet cleaner and it’s run time is about 45 seconds
• What happens in this advertisement is that a TV show host visits four to five different
households and asks the house owners about the cleanliness level of their toilets.
• Most of the people say that their toilets are clean but then he insists on seeing them.
• Next, the camera zooms on to the actual toilet seats, which are very dirty and have yellow/
dark brown stains on them.
• The host then recommends the blue colored toilet cleaner and applies it to the dirty toilet
seats
• After this the toilets are shown as sparkling clean just like a brand new toilet.
• Now there are two main reasons why I hate this advertisement.
• First is obviously the dirty toilets seat being shown on television.
• I think it would give nausea to anyone watching it.
• The second and the worst part about this ad is its timing.
• Normally, I watch the television while having my food i.e. during Lunch or Dinner and this
is the time when they show this ad repeatedly.
• It makes me feel so disgusted, and I am not able to eat my food after watching this ad.
• Nowadays this ad is being shown on YouTube as well and I always do skip ad whenever
itcomes online.
• I wish there should be a method that should allow the viewers to choose the type of ads
they would like to see.
1. Why do some people hate advertisements?

People do not like advertisements while they are watching a program because ads break the
continuity. Another annoying factor is that most of the ads are very repetitive and there is nothing
new. But the fact remains that if there are no advertising agencies to sponsor the programs we will
not be able to watch good programs.
2. Do people usually buy stuff after watching advertisements?

Yes definitely many people buy the products after they watch an ad. Many of the advertisements
are very innovative as well as informative these days. An advert can lure a wide range of people, from
small children to the senior citizens.
17
3. Is music useful in advertising?
Yes, music adds life to the ad. Music can add meaning to anything and so music is useful in ads. For
example, some jingles keep ringing in your ears even after the ad is over. So, the purpose of ad is
fulfilled.
4. What are advantages of TV advertisements? How about internet advertisements?

TV ads have both audio and video component. So these give visual reminders of the products and
that is what sells the products. Internet adds can be skipped and it is optional and upto the user
whether to view them or not.
5. Where usually do we see adverts?

We see ads all around us – on TV, on radio, on roadsides, in newspapers, in magazines, on the
internet, on phones and as flyers.
6. Are there any advertisements at school?

Sometimes, supermarkets and fast food outlets give money to schools and open their outlets in
schools. This is a way of advertising their products.
7. Are there some inappropriate adverts, like that of a condom?

There are some inappropriate ads, like the ad of some perfumes, which imply that if a boy wears that
perfume, girls will flock around him, and the ads of some drinks like coke and pepsi. The ad of
condoms is not inappropriate in my opinion. It is an important step in sex education.
8. Why does the government allow such ads?

Government allows such ads, because these ads spend a lot, which boosts the economy. Not only
does the government earn, the people working in these ads also earn a lot.
9. Do you think it is bad for children?

Yes, sometimes children are lured to buy such things, but I feel that parents can play a very positive
role by keeping an eye on their children and guiding them what is right or wrong.
10. Do parents complain about it?

Yes, parents complain about it at times, but the advantages these ads are giving to the country, are
much more than the negative effects of these ads.
11. What are the most advertised products in your country?

Most advertised products in my country are skin, makeup, and hair care products, and food products
like carbonated drinks, chocolates, flour, rice, etc. I also see a lot of ads for cars and mobile phones.
12. Which one is often more effective, newspaper advertising or online advertising?
Online advertisements are more effective as they allow businesses to find and reach people
interested in their products. With newspaper ads, you won’t know who has seen them, but online
ads are traceable; thus, companies can focus on customers who have clicked their ads. Also, in this
digital world, people mostly go online to read news, and the circulation of newspapers has fallen. So
ads in newspapers are not even seen by many.
18
13. What are the benefits of Advertisements?
Advertisements provide information on new products. They help create jobs by increasing demand
for products and services. Some food ads help people make healthy choices and live a better life. Ads
bring about many positive social changes like curbs on female feticide, equal rights for women, and
reduction of child labor.
14. What do you think of celebrity endorsements in advertising?

I think it’s not good as many celebrities ignore the public interest while endorsing the latest fashions
and products. For example, many celebrities promote sugary drinks or fast foods, even though they
themselves do not consume them.
Also, celebrities are often portrayed drinking or smoking in advertisements, TV shows, and movies.
This normalizes and glamorizes behavior like smoking, binge drinking, and illicit drug use, making
youth feel that it is appropriate to do the same.
15. Does advertising encourage us to buy things we don’t need?

Yes, advertising encourages people to buy things they don’t need. The repetitive ads make them
believe that a product is better than another product or something that they already own. Consumers
buy these tempting products without insight into what they need or can even afford to buy. I bought
a coffee expresso machine after seeing an Instagram ad for it, and I have used it two times this month.
16. What role does a social medium play in advertising?

Social media ads are very effective as businesses can reach many people from different parts of the
world within seconds of posting an ad. It also helps them engage with their customers in real time,
get their feedback, and build loyalty. Companies also use social media influencers to expand the reach
of their brand on social media.
8. Describe a person who inspired you to do

something interesting.
You should say:
- Who is this person
- What they inspired you to do
- How they inspired you
- How you feel
-
 A person who inspired me to do something interesting is my cousin's wife, Priya.
 My cousin got married a few years ago, and he and Priya moved to Ludhiana, about 40 minutes
from my hometown.
 Priya is a computer engineer by profession and works at a software company.
 Once while I was visiting them, she mentioned that she had started to learn Indian classical
dance.
 I knew she was a good dancer as I had seen her dance at her wedding and other family
functions before.
 But Indian classical dance is complex and takes a lot of training.
 She said she was driving home one day from work and saw the advertisement for a new
classical dance academy close to her office.
19
 She knew it was her chance to learn something new.
 It was also convenient as it was on her route, so she won't waste time commuting.
 She said she had been going to Bharatnatyam classes for almost six months.
 She was one of the top students in her batch, and the academy even hired her to start teaching
children on weekends
 She was so passionate about it and talked about opening her own dancing studio one day.
 I was truly inspired to see that she managed to keep up with it, along with a full-time job.
 I shared with her my interest in music and how I have always wanted to learn to play guitar.
 Growing up, I was busy with studies and never got the time.
 And now that I am older, I feel it was too late to learn.
 She told me age is just a number and learning anything new needs consistent practice. If she
can learn a new skill at her age, so can I.
 I was so inspired after meeting her. I got myself a guitar and bought a couple of guitar books.
 I looked up YouTube videos to learn the basics.
 There were so many resources online for learning guitar and even teachers who taught
through zoom.
 After a few months of learning the basics, I found a guitar teacher near my home who could
teach me in person.
 He helped me work with more complex music, and I was able to refine my skills.
 I was amazed by my progress and eventually started playing for family and friends.
 Now, it’s a hobby that I really enjoy. It not only relaxes me but is a good escape from the stress
of everyday life
 I will be thankful to Priya for inspiring me to pursue my passion.
1. Who motivates children the most?

I think at an early age, parents and teachers motivate children the most. They are role models, and
children naturally look up to them. Once they are older, children start idolizing movie and sport
stars, and they can motivate children too.
2. How can teachers motivate children?

Teachers can motivate children by encouraging them, recognizing their efforts, setting achievable
goals, and allowing them to explore their curiosity and think outside the box.
3. How is it different from teaching kids?

Students who are not motivated will not learn effectively and teaching alone won’t improve
academic performance. Motivated students are more excited to participate in class, and
unmotivated students can disrupt the whole class.
4. What should teenagers have?

Teenagers want to be accepted and valued by their friends, which can sometimes lead them to risky
behavior. If parents are supportive and take the time to communicate with their children, they can
influence teens to remain motivated and achieve their goals. Parents need to keep a watch on them
and respect their independence
20
9. Describe a website which helped you to do

something / website you visit often/ use regularly
- Which site is it?
- How did you know about it
- How it helped
- Why do you visit it often
 I surf the internet very often, in fact daily.

 There are many websites which help us to do many things.
 Here I would like to talk about a website through which you can find videos to do almost
anything
 It is youtube.com
 Whenever I have to do something, which I have not done before, I search a video on this site,
and believe me ma’am, there are many to choose from
 My friend sent me a video of 3D origami once, and I was amazed to see the clear instructions.
 It has helped me in many ways.
 I have done many school assignments with the help of YouTube videos.
 If I like any channel on YouTube, I subscribe to it and then get that channel’s updates in my e-
mail.
 Recently, I baked a cake by watching a You Tube video.
 It turned out perfect.
 It was an eggless chocolate cake.
 I bought all the ingredients, such as self-raising flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, condensed
milk, vanilla extract.
 Once my mother was not at home.
 I made rice by watching a video.
 That too turned out perfect.
 Videos are better than oral or written instructions.
 So this is the website, which has helped me many times to do something.
1. What are the most popular and least popular apps in your country?
I think it’s nearly the same the world over. The most popular apps are the social media apps like
Facebook and Instagram. Moreover, Google as a search engine and YouTube for watching videos
are also very popular. Regarding the least popular, well I would have known about them, if they
were abit more popular.
2. What the difference between the internet and the TV?

I think the main difference is that we have choice in selecting what we watch or read about on the
internet. We also have choice in regards in TV but it is among a few different options, it is not as open
ended as the internet. Moreover, the internet is more interactive as it gives us the option to express
our self. For example, we can post reviews and rate movies after watching them.
21
3. Why do some people like to read news on the internet instead of getting it from TV?
The main benefit is that people can directly search for the news they are interested in. For example,
if someone is interested in sports news, he can directly move to the sports section. Moreover, people
can also read the news in detail along with watching the video on the Internet.
4. Are libraries still beneficial? Why or why not?

Libraries are much more than places with a collection of books. They are places which provide a quiet
environment for people to sit and concentrate on their work. Thus, if we look at them from the
perspective of increasing noise in the world, their importance has increased. Moreover, the internet
has a lot more information but the information is scattered and it’s really hard to not get distracted
while working on the internet.
5. What kinds of people still like to go to the library to study?

Firstly, I think people who find it hard to concentrate at home or those who need a peaceful and quiet
environment still go the library. Moreover, people who find looking at the computer screen straining
like to go to the library.
6. What is difference between the old and young in regards to internet use?
I would call the young to be experts and old as amateurs in this regard. I think young were born with
the internet and thus am much more comfortable in using it. They know all the ins and out of the
internet, they know the reliable websites and they can recognize the scams as well. Moreover,
internet is a part of life for the youth - they use it for anything or everything, while the old it is till
limited to some specific areas like banking or online shopping.
7. Can internet help children in their study?

Yes, definitely. The Internet is an ocean of knowledge. Children can take the help of many educational
sites on the net.
8. Will downloading music or movies for free cause a problem?

Yes, it can cause problems. It can affect the sale of this music and the movies also. But it cannot be
stopped. People will always find ways of doing so. This has also made many amateur singers and
actors famous overnight.
9. Some people say that different age groups have different tastes on the internet content. What do
you think?
Yes, interests change according to age. Children like to watch cartoons on internet whereas the
younger generation uses it mainly for social networking and shopping. The elderly are using it for
finding and sharing information.
10. What influence can (or does) the internet have on children?
Internet has positive as well as negative impact on children. If the internet access is not supervised
or appropriate parental controls are not implemented, children can access restricted websites which
can have a negative influence on them.
11. What kind of people don't use the internet and what are the disadvantages that those people
suffer because they don't use the internet?
Some people who are against technology and have orthodox thinking do not use the internet. But
22
mostly poor people do not have access to internet. These people are not aware about things
happening around them and how technology has brought convenience to our life. So they are
dependent on others all the time for information.
10. Describe a piece of good news you heard from

others
- What it was
- When you received this news
- How you received this news
- Why you feel it was a good news
• In our day-to-day life, we hear a lot of news from others.

• Some are good and some are not so good
• Here I would like to talk about news, which I heard from my neighbors.
• The news was that an international level sports stadium is going to open in my home town.
• About six months ago, as I was walking in a park near my home, I saw some neighbors
standing in a group and discussing something.
• I joined them and came to know that they were talking about this stadium.
• As it is the sports facilities in my hometown are not so good and the young people do not
have a place to develop their sporting talent.
• Many young people who are serious to do sports as a career have joined academies in
Jalandhar and Phillaur.
• If there will be such facilities locally, then many more youngsters would be encouraged to do
sports regularly.
• I feel it is good news because we are leading sedentary lives.
• There is hardly any physical activity.
• Obesity has become a common problem among the people, especially young children.
• The youth is going towards drugs and other such vices.
• An NGO, run by some NRIs of my home town have donated two acres of land for this
project.
• Our local MLA has got the approval for this and is being very proactive for fetching funds for
this project.
• This stadium would have an underground car parking to accommodate 500 cars.
• The construction work has already started.
• The stadium would have a seating capacity of 5000.
• It would have covered seating areas also.
• There would be changing rooms for the sportsmen, and washrooms for the public.
• There would be drinking water facility at regular intervals.
• There would also be surveillance cameras all over, so that no untoward incidence happens.
• If people know they are being watched, then they refrain from doing anti-social things such
as petty crime.
• There would be lights run by solar energy.
• The stadium would be so well lit even at nights that sports could be played there 24/7.
23
Another idea
• In our day-to-day life, we hear a lot of news from others.
• Some are good and some are not so good
• Here I would like to talk about news, which I heard from my neighbors.
• The news was that a multi-specialty hospital is opening in my home town
• I heard this news about six months ago.
• About six months ago, as I was walking in a park near my home, I saw some neighbors
standing in a group and discussing something.
• I joined them and came to know that they were talking about this hospital.
• As it is the medical facilities in my hometown are not so good and the people who suffer
from any medical facilities have to be shifted to Jalandhar or Ludhiana.
• Many people, who are serious, sometimes suffer from irreversible damage to their
healthbecause of this delay.
• For example, if a person suffers heart attack or stroke, then there are injections which
prevent irreversible damage to the heart or brain.
• If there will be such facilities locally, then many people would get timely treatment and get
well very soon and lead normal lives.
• I feel it is good news because we all may need such treatment at any time during our lives.
• We are leading sedentary lives nowadays.
• There is hardly any physical activity.
• Obesity has become a common problem among the people, especially young children.
• Obesity is the root cause of many ailments.
• An NGO, run by some NRIs of my home town have donated two acres of land for this
project.
• Our local MLA has got the approval for this and is being very proactive for fetching funds for
this project.
• This stadium would have an underground car parking to accommodate 500 cars.
• The construction work has already started.
• The hospital would be 200 bedded.
• It would have separate wings for all specialties.
• There would also be surveillance cameras all over, so that everything would be under
scrutiny.
1. How do people share good news?

People share good news in many ways. They just tell each other face to face. They also use social
media like Facebook, Twitter and Whatsapp. They also call the other person and tell about any good
news. They write e-mails also for this purpose.
2. Why do people share news on social media and is it good to share news on social media?
Social media is a quick and time-saving platform for sharing news. People just have to post one
message and it reaches a very wide audience instantaneously. I generally don’t see any harm in
sharing something on social media. However, it should be don’t privately with one’s family and
friends instead of publicly.
24
3. How does modern technology affect the delivery of information?

It affects in many ways. It has made the delivery of information instant. You just update your status
on Facebook or Whatsapp and all your friends and group members are reached at once.
4. Should the media only publish good news?

Definitely not, I think it’s important to publish both. Nowadays a lot of media just focuses on crime
and disasters as they get them better TRP. Fair media should depict both the positive and negative
stories - so that viewers can get a better image about what’s happening in the world.
5. When do people share good news?

People share good news when they want their near and dear ones to know what good has happened
to them. For example, if anyone becomes a parent, he wants to share this news with everyone. If
anyone buys a new home or a new car then he wants his friends and relatives to know about that. If
anybody clears an exam or gets a new job, he wants others to know about it.
6. What kinds of good news have you received before?

I have received many kinds of good news. I received the good news that my cousin was blessed with
a baby girl. I also received the good news that my cousin had topped in his 8th grade exam.
7. What kind of good news do people like to hear?

People like to hear good news about any achievements of their friends and relatives, any celebrity
visiting their town or city, any festival celebration and any new movie released of their favourite actor
or actress. People also like to hear any new developmental projects that have been sanctioned for
their community or city
8. Do most people like to share good news?

Yes, its human nature. We are social beings and sharing good news with others give us happiness.
However, a lot of time people do not share the negative things in their life and this leads to problems
like depression and loneliness.
9. Do people like to hear good news from their friends?

In most cases yes; however, sometimes it can lead to jealousy. For example, if two friends are
preparing for the same exam and one clears it while the other doesn’t. The friend who failed might
not be so welcoming to hear the good news of the other friend. Its human nature.
25
11. Describe a place where there was a lot of noise/

Describe a noisy place you have been to
- When this happened?
- Where it was?
- Why there was a lot of noise
- Explain what you did when you heard the noise
 Noise pollution has become an inevitable part of our life.

 Whether we like it or not, we have to tolerate it. We can’t escape it.
 Here, I’m going to talk about a situation when there was too much noise.
 A religious function, which we call jagrata or jagran, was held last Sunday in my neighborhood.
 In such functions people sing hymns and chants in praise of Gods and Goddesses the whole
night long.
 The function started at 8 PM and went up to 5 AM.
 There is a law against using loudspeakers after 10 PM but people don’t abide by the law in the
name of religion.
 They do not realize that some people might be suffering from excessive noise.
 I was not able to sleep the whole night.
 I closed all windows of my house to reduce that sound, but it did not make any difference.
 Then I put earplugs in my ears but that too did not work.
 There might have been many other people who suffered like I did that night.
 I am not against any religious event, but I’m definitely against using loud speakers after 10 PM.
 Such laws should be implemented more strictly, and I believe that the use of pressure horns
also must be restricted.
 Noise pollution has a negative effect on our mental health as well as physical health.
 It can lead to hearing impairment, Fatigue, Heart problems, Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression and
so on.
 It can also reduce the work efficiency.
 One of my uncles has come from Canada and he tells me that in Canada people are not using
horns unnecessarily and still the traffic runs very smoothly.
 I hope we all realize the menace of noise pollution and do our bit to reduce it from our lives
1. Is noise pollution serious in India?

Yes, it is. We have noise all around us, most of which can be avoided. There is unnecessary honking
of pressure horns from vehicles. Industries are making noise. People use loudspeakers for personal
functions, and neighbors are forced to bear the noise.
2. Do you like to live in a noisy place?

No, definitely not. But, unfortunately it is difficult to find places in cities, which are noise free.
3. Do you like to go to noisy places?

Once in a while, I like to attend parties and functions where DJ is playing loud music and I can dance
and enjoy with my friends and relatives.
26
4. Where can you hear a loud noise?

We can hear loud noise all around us. There is unnecessary honking of pressure horns from vehicles.
Industries are making noise. People use loudspeakers for personal functions, and neighbors are
forced to bear the noise.
5. Do you think that there is more noise in people’s lives today than in the past?
Yes, I think so. The number of vehicles is growing day by day. All these are making noise. Industries
are also growing in numbers. These are also making too much noise. As these sources of noise are
increasing, so definitely we are suffering from more and more noise these days.
6. Do you think that cities will become noisier in the future?

Yes, I suppose so. Whether we like it or not, the noise producing things are increasing and so it is
quite probable that cities will become noisier in the future.
7. What is the noise in life?

The noise in our life means the distractions that do not let us focus on the goals in our life.
For example, nowadays, people do not concentrate on their studies or work, and are often busy
scrolling unimportant feeds/updates on their mobile phones. The loads of data that they consume
everyday become the noise in their life.
8. How is the noise level in your city?

My city is an industrial city and on top of that it is on the national highway. So, the noise levels are
very high.
9. Where does noise in urban areas come from?

The noise in urban areas comes from pressure horns of vehicles, industries and loud speakers.
10. Do you think it is important to be alone sometimes?

It is very important to be alone sometimes. Everyone needs to introspect at times. One needs to
know about ones likes and dislikes and everyone needs time for one’s personal work which can be
best done in solitude.
11. What is the importance of belonging to a certain group?

There is a lot of importance of belonging to a social group. Man is a social animal and cannot live
alone for long. One needs to share one’s happiness and sorrows with others. That is why we join
social groups and feel part of these groups. Social groups are a sort of support system. They give us
support when we are low in life. It is mentally unhealthy to be alone for long.
12. What are problem you could have if you go out together in big group?
There could be a lot of problems in a big group. It is difficult to organize a big group. Mismanagement
can lead to conflicts. It could end up in a lot of wastage of time. It has been well said that “two is a
company and three is a crowd”.
13. Why people like going to noisy places, like a restaurant or pub, even they know these places are
noisy?
27
Some people like to enjoy loud music that is why they like to hang out at such pubs or discs.
Moreover, since their aim is to socialize so they are not bothered by the noise at these places.
14. Shall we encourage children to make noises?

We should tell children to make noise only when they feel that they are in a dangerous situation. This
way they can alert others or save themselves from a tragedy.
15. Do you think it is good for children to make noise?

No I don’t think it is good to allow children to make noise unless and until they face a threat from
someone. Unnecessary noise creates a lot of disturbance and distracts everyone around.
16. What kind of noises are there in our life?

There are many different types of noises that we can experience in our daily lives, including:
Environmental noises, such as traffic, construction, and nature sounds (e.g. birds singing, wind
blowing).Mechanical noises, such as those produced by appliances, machinery, and vehicles.
Human-generated noises such as talking, laughing, and music. Biological noises those produced by
animals, insects, and other living organisms. Acoustic noise such as from sound systems, and other
audio sources.
17. Which area is exposed to noise more, the city or the countryside?
Cities tend to have higher levels of noise pollution than rural or suburban areas. This is because cities
have a higher population density, more traffic on the roads, and more industrial and commercial
activity, all of which can contribute to noise pollution.
18. How would people usually respond to noises in your country?

I think that the way people respond to noise in India can vary depending on factors such as age,
culture, and socioeconomic status. But in general, people in my country may be more accustomed to
living with a higher level of noise pollution than people in some other countries. This is because noise
is a common part of daily life in India, where cities are often very crowded and busy, and there is a
lot of traffic and other activity on the streets.
19. How can people consider other’s feelings when chatting in public?
I believe there are many ways people can consider others' feelings when chatting in public. Firstly,
people should speak at a moderate volume. They should speak in a normal tone of voice and avoiding
talking loudly. This can help prevent conversation from disrupting the people around them.
Secondly, people should be aware of their surroundings. They should be mindful of where they are
and who might be around them. For example, if they are in a library or a quiet area, it's best to keep
the voice down. Finally, they should be sensitive to the topic of conversation and avoid discussing
sensitive or controversial topics that might offend or upset others.
28
12. Describe something you taught to your

friend/relative.
What you taught him/her?
- When it was?
- How long it was for?
- And explain how you felt about it.
 My sister lives in the US.

 Last summer, she and her children visited us in India during the summer vacations.
 Both her children, my niece and nephew are quite inquisitive and they are always keen on
learning something new.
 One day, they saw me playing chess online and they immediately developed an interest in
chess.
 They requested me to teach them.
 They visit India very rarely, so I thought it would be a nice way to spend some quality time
with them.
 They were visiting for 2 months, so we had plenty of time.
 I started with the basics and explained how each piece moved first.
 With time, I covered some of the complex mechanics like castling and en passant.
 I also bought them a membership at chess.com, so that they could practice alone when I was
busy.
 The website has some nice puzzles, which teach how to think in difficult positions.
 They played against computer bots and other players as well
 Chess is about practice and the more they played different players, the more they learnt.
 They were very quick to pick up things and by the end of two months, they had also beaten
me two three times.
 In fact, I also learnt a few special moves from them.
 It was a very fulfilling experience overall.
 I think it was first time I taught someone something.
 I felt very proud when they picked up things and them beating me was icing on the cake.
 I lost as a player but I succeeded as a teacher.
1. What are things that young people can teach old people to do?
I think they can teach them anything they are good at. However, if I had to pick something specific I
would say the use of technology like how to use mobile phone features, apps and computer soft
wares.
2. What skills can young people teach the old besides technology?
I think they can teach them the ability to change and adapt. Old people are generally hesitant and
unwilling to take risks and make changes but they are necessary to survive in today’s world. They
can also teach them how to take risks.
3. Why older people have problems in learning new things?
29
I think it’s about memory. I think people’s memory deteriorates with time and people start
forgetting things. For example, sometimes when I am teaching my mother, she forgets the previous
steps. However, when I repeat it once or twice, she picks it up.
4. Do you think showing is a better way than telling during education?

Of course, it’s easier to remember things we see. I am not sure why but I think our visual memory
isfar better. Moreover, there can be misunderstandings when telling something as words can be
interpret differently.
5. Do you think constant training is important for people to study something?

Yes, practice is the key to success. I remember I once watched a video which said that if a person
spends about 1200 hours on something, he can become an expert at it. I couldn’t agree more. I
remember I taught my mother how to use Microsoft Word and now she knows about it more than
me because she uses it much more.
6.) How can the young teach the old?

I think the best way would be show them to do something rather than telling them what to do.
Young people need to be patient while teaching and remember that it takes the aged a little bit
more time.
13. Describe your experience when you changed your

school/college" or Describe an experience about moving to
a new school or house/ Describe your first day at school
- Why did you change your school/college?
- When was it?
- Was that helpful?
- What were the consequences after that?
• I have been to two schools in my life.

• My primary school was different from my secondary school.
• I have vague remembrances of my primary school as I was too small then.
• Here I would like to talk about my secondary school in which I studied from 6th to 12th class.
 I had to change my school because my father got transferred to a different city and we had to
move with him
• My school’s name was SD Model Senior Secondary School.
• I vividly remember I was very nervous on the first day.
• This school was much bigger than my primary school.
• I was afraid of getting lost there.
• I was a little bit excited also.
• I just walked inside with the other students and went where they were going.
• I was a new face for them so many of them were staring at me.
• I asked one student about where 6th class was.
• Coincidently she was also in 6th class.
• She took me to her class.
30
• That was the beginning of my new friendship.
• Her name was Harleen and till today we are the best of friends.
• She made me feel very comfortable.
• All my nervousness vanished.
• We attended the classes before the lunch break and during recess she showed me the whole
school.
• I was awed by the infrastructure of the school.
• There were separate labs for physics, chemistry, and computer science.
• There was also a huge library.
• Badminton and volleyball courts were also there.
• The canteen was the most impressive.
• All the teachers were also very nice.
• I studied for 7 years in that school.
• Those were the most memorable years of my life.
Part 3 - Follow-up Questions
1. Are children better at solving problems than adults?

I don’t think that children are better problem solvers as compared to adults because problem-solving
requires two things; one is the logical ability and second is experience. Although children might be
good at applying new approach or perspective towards the problem, however, they sometimes don’t
have the experience to solve the problems that they face. Sometimes who can solve it better will
also depend on the nature of the problem.
2. If people move frequently, is it better to stay in one house all the time?
I don’t think it would be wise to stay at one place if someone moves or gets transferred frequently to
different cities or towns. For example, my brother, who is in the Army, gets posted to a new city after
every 2 years, he always moves to the new place with his family because if he chooses to opt for a
permanent home, then he would have to live away from his wife and children.
3. What are the pros and cons of living in a high-rise building?

I think the advantages that high-rise building offers are the beautiful views and easy access to
facilities like gyms, swimming pools shops. On the other hand, the disadvantages include the fire risks
and the fact that people have to live in compact spaces because the apartments and rooms in high-
rise buildings are comparatively smaller in size.
4. What are the pros and cons of living in an old and new neighborhood?
I think the major difference of living in old and new neighborhoods is the access to facilities. For
example, in old neighborhoods it is difficult to find parking spaces because during their construction
cars were not that popular, whereas the new neighborhoods are much better planned and focus on
the challenges that people face today.
5. How do parents prepare their kids to go to school on the first day?

I think firstly they should ensure that their children have a proper morning routine so that they get
up on time. Secondly, they should stock up on all the school supplies like stationary and notebooks.
Finally, I think they should talk to their children and tell them what they should expect, what they
31
should do if they face any problems. It’s important that the child doesn’t see the school as a burden.
6. How do children socialize with each other?

I think children socialize with each other when they spend time with each other at school studying or
when they do other extracurricular activities like painting. At younger ages it can be non-verbal and
as they become older, they start communicating verbally.
7. Is socialization important for children?

I think the importance of socialization cannot be overstated. Socialization makes them confident and
teaches them to deal with new social situations. Also, socialization is the key to communication skills
as well. Above all, socialization is the key to making friends.
8. What are the benefits of changing schools?

In my opinion, children learn adaptation. Change is a part of life and its very necessary that children
learn how to deal with new situations from a young age. Changing schools can be difficult for children
as they would need to make friends again so it necessary for parents to be present to help their
children during this phase.
9. What are the reasons for job change?

There are many reasons for changing job. Firstly, it can be done to break the monotony of life or in
other words to find something new to do. Another major reason is money. Some people also do it
for the work environment as they find the work environment toxic.
14. Describe a place/ country in which you would

like to live/ work for a short period of time
- Where you would like to live/work
- What you want to do there
- When would you like to go there
- Why you want to live there
• I am planning to go abroad for my higher studies.

• My dream country for my further studies is Canada.
• I would like to work there for the time that I am there.
• I have heard that students can work part time while studying over there.
• My friend went to Humber College Canada for his Business Management course.
• He told me a lot about the education system there.
• He is working part time in a pizza outlet.
• He gets 10 Canadian dollars an hour.
• He can work 20 hours per week but he can be flexible with the number of hours he can work
per day.
• So he works 5 hours on Saturday and 5 on Sunday and two hours per day on weekdays. In
this way his study is not disturbed.
• He is managing his overhead expenses very nicely.
• I intend to join him soon.
32
• He has promised to help me find a job there.
• I would like to work in the library.
• Part time jobs in the library get filled up very fast.
• If I don’t get a job in the library, I would like to work in a restaurant or a fast food outlet.
• I think it would be a very good way to learn about the culture and to meet new people and
make new friends.
• Canada is a beautiful country.
• My friend is in Toronto and he has told me that he has visited many places there.
• He told me about the CN Tower and the Niagara Falls.
• So, I would definitely like to live in Canada for a short time
1. What kinds of jobs are easy to get in a foreign country?

My cousin who lives in Canada tells me that there are many jobs that are easy to get for students
studying there. The most common ones are the jobs in restaurants or fast food outlets like
McDonald’s, Burger King, Subway, and those in the college campus itself, like jobs in the library, etc.
2. Should young adults work abroad?

Yes, young adults should work abroad because of several reasons like, taking care of their overhead
expenses, taking the financial burden off their parents’ shoulders, they become more independent
and responsible and they gain experience about the work culture, which would help them in their
future. It is also a good way to learn about the culture of that country and to meet new people and
make friends.
3. If they don’t work abroad, would it be helpful for them to travel in a foreign country?
Yes, travelling is definitely helpful. They would come to know about the culture, meet new people,
see new places, and make new connections. However, if they don’t work, they may not be able to
afford travelling.
4. Do Indian parents encourage their children to work abroad?

Yes, Indian parents encourage their children to work abroad. They prepare their children well
before they travel abroad, about the situations and hardships they may have to face and the
importance of working while studying there, so that they can cover their expenses and also gain
work experience.
5. If you had an opportunity to live abroad, which country would you like to settle down in?
If I have an opportunity to live abroad, I would like to settle in a developed country, like Canada,
Australia or the USA. I have heard from my friends and relatives living abroad that life there is very
comfortable, with better facilities and infrastructure. They also tell me that the standard living is
very high there, as compared to India. Also, there are a lot of job opportunities available there.
6. Would you like to live in a developed city with a high salary but with polluted air?
If I am in dire need of money for my family, I would go for it, but otherwise I would avoid it. I would
use a face mask to filter the polluted air. I would also avoid taking my family there with me.
33
7. Would you like to live alone or share a room with others?

This would also depend on my financial condition. If sharing a room would save me money, I would
share; otherwise, living alone would give me more privacy and independence.
8. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living alone?

Disadvantages are that it would be costly and I would have to do all my household chores myself,
but the advantages are that I would have more privacy and I can live according to my wish.
9. Do people prefer planned travel?

Yes, there are too many options to choose from nowadays. That’s why it has become really
important for people to plan their travel. Planning also reduces costs as last minute reservations or
booking are really expensive.
10. Why are places with historical attractions more active in developing tourism?
I think historical places hold a unique charm for people. People often want to visit places they have
read in history books, up close. Moreover, historical places are unique in the sense that we can find
places with natural beauty anywhere for example hill stations, beaches but historical sites are
particular to that location.
11. Why do you think people usually travel?

People travel to get a break from the monotony of life. They travel to meet new people, to
experience a new culture. People also travel to spend some quality time with their loved ones as it
is very difficult to find time during daily life nowadays.
12. Why do you experience more noise when living in a tourist city?
I think the major reason is increased traffic due to tourists. Moreover, there are entertainment
centres like shopping malls, club, movie theatres and amusement park, which add to the level of
noise.
13. Do you think tourists can experience bad things in other countries?
Certainly, firstly, there are many scams that target tourists especially for example exorbitant
transportation charges. As tourists don’t know much about the area, they are more likely to
become a victim to such scams. Moreover, tourists may also experience racism sometimes.
34
15. Talk about an interesting old person you met

recently
- Who is this person?
- How you met him? How you know him
- What you do with this person (optional)
- Why you found him interesting?
 I know many old persons, but here I would like to talk about my friend Sonia’s grandfather.
 I met him about 6 months ago and I found him very interesting.
 His name is Mr. Jaswant Singh.
 He is in his mid-seventies.
 He is not tall, but looks very handsome.
 Even at this age he is very lithe and agile.
 Sonia tells me that he is very health conscious, and never misses his morning and evening
walk.
 He retired as a colonel from the Indian army.
 Once i visited Sonia’s place to work on a project and there I met him for the first time.
 He was sitting in the lobby doing something on his laptop.
 I found it very interesting that a person of his age was so comfortable with a laptop.
 He was placing an order at Amazon.in for some headphones.
 My parents find it difficult to handle a smartphone and he was using a laptop like a pro.
 He greeted me very warmly and so I started chatting with him.
 I was amazed at his vast knowledge.
 He told me stories of his life in the army.
 He told me stories of his life in the army.
 He told me how he participated actively in the Kargil war.
 So now whenever I go to Sonia’s house, I make it a point to sit with him for some time and
learn something new.
1. Do you think old people and young people can share the same interest?
It may sometimes be difficult for old people and young people to share the same interests. Young
people are generally more energetic, so they prefer outdoor sports, but old people can only play
those games which are not physically trying. It would be wrong to say that they cannot share the
same interest. They both can share the same interest in TV programs, movies, indoor games, etc.
2. What skills can the old teach the young?

Old people today have seen a lot of changes in their lifetime. My grandfather has told me many
stories of how difficult his life was when there were no vehicles and horses were used for
transportation. He has also seen a lot of technological advancements. For example, the evolution of
music started with radio and was followed by gramophones, cassette players, cd’s and dvd’s, and
finally IPods and Mobile Phones. The most important life skills such as adaptability, versatility and
35
openness to change, can be taught by the old to the young.
3. What skills can the young teach the old?

Young people are faster at learning about modern technology and better at operating gadgets. They
can definitely teach these skills to old people. Also, since young people are now entering various
businesses, other young people understand them and can do a better job of negotiating prices of
goods and services. This too is an important skill for old people who are always keen to get a good
bargain.
4. Do you think the old people should live with their family?
Ideally they should. But, if not possible for some reasons, they should be in old age homes and not
live alone. Living alone can be dangerous for them.
5. Do you think the old and the young can have the same interests?
It may sometimes be difficult for old people and young people to share the same interests. Young
people are generally more energetic, so they prefer outdoor sports, but old people can only play
those games which are not physically trying. It would be wrong to say that they cannot share the
same interest. They both can share the same interest in TV programs, movies, indoor games, etc.
6. Do you think people are more selfish or self-centered than in the past?
I don’t think so. People are more ambitious and busier than in the past. As a result, people don’t have
much free time to help their friends or family members. I don’t think that’s being selfish, it’s just
prioritizing work.
16. Describe a piece of technology that you find

difficult to use.
- When did you get it?
- What did you get it for?
- How often do you use it?
- How do you feel about it?
 We live in a time where technology has made it possible to do many things considered
unimaginable in the past.
 But it has also come at the cost of simplicity.
 Today, I would like to talk a washing machine, which offers so many features but is also very
complicated to use.
 Recently, our previous washing machine broke down and we decided to buy a new one.
 I compared the different models online and ultimately decided on a Gen Z model from a
famous company.
 It boasted 102 different washing modes for different types of clothes.
 None of the other models came even close to it.
 When I bought, I never thought if I really needed 102 modes.
 There are 102 different modes, but it is impossible for the machine to have 102 buttons.
36
 The modes have to be changed and selected on the basis of just 10 buttons.
 Its really hard to remember the buttons I need to press.
 In fact for the simple basic wash cycle, I have to press five buttons in a particular order.
 For this, I always need to keep the user manual closely.
 Many times, if I click on a wrong button I have to start all over again.
 It gives a headache to use it.
 Earlier, our maid used to easily use the washing machine
 However, this one is too complicated for her to use as she doesn’t know English and the user
manual is only in English.
 I really regret buying this machine.
 But I have also learnt a valuable lesson.
 More is not always good.
 I don’t think I will ever end of using more than five modes in my life.
 When buying things, I shouldn’t care about what the technology offers but rather what I need.
1. What technology products or technologies are used by people now?

Our life is full of technology. In fact, we use a technology from waking up to sleeping. A few examples
are all the kitchen gadgets, vacuum cleaners, washing machines, mobile phones, laptops, cars and so
on.
2. Why do large companies often produce new products?

I think it is a game of constant one-upmanship. Companies are trying to cram in more and more
features trying to outdo each other without really thinking about what is essential. For example,
there are mobile phones out there with more than 10 cameras.
3. Why are people so enthusiastic about buying newer iPhone models, even when nothing much
changes?
I think the main reason is that the people want to show off that they own the latest model. Moreover,
I think buying something new makes it exciting. We don’t have the same bonds with products we
earlier did and thus it’s very easy to throw away the older model for the newer one.
4. What changes has the development in technology brought in our life?

I think our life has changed tremendously. Some changes have had negative consequences, whereas
others have made our life better. On the negative side, socials bonds have become weaker as we
don’t as much time with each other as earlier. In addition, our life has become sedentary as there is
much less physical activity in our lives. On the positive side, we have much more options than the
past. We have faster transportation, better healthcare and better food options. So, I would say its a
mixed bag.
5.Has technology affected the way we study? How?

Yes, to a certain extent. For example, there are multiple modes of education like videos, audios, presentation and
not just books. It has also changed the way we search for information. However, it hasn’t completely replaced
classroom learning, which is still the main mode of education all over the world
37
17. Describe a historical period you would like to

know more about
- What period do you want to know about
- Why do you want to know about it
- How do you think you can know about it
● History has never been my favorite subject

● But there are some periods of history, which have always fascinated me, and I would like to
know more about them
● One such period is the Indus Valley period
● I recently saw the movie Mohenjo Daro, which tells about the way people, lived during
those days.
● First time I learnt about the period from my history book at school. My school also
organized a trip to National Museum, New Delhi where there are many seals and pots from
that period.
● I also saw the plans of the Indus Valley Architecture.
● Indus Valley people were very ahead of their times. They lived in cities with walls, in a time
period which dates back to 2600-1900 BC.
● Many buildings like baths, bead factories, and granaries have been excavated at their ruins.
● An interesting thing about the Indus valley people was they lived in burnt brick houses like
today.
● The streets met each other at right angles. There were drains, which could be cleaned.
● Also there were no places of worship; people worshipped nature elements like air, water.
● There are still many mysteries about this period that still need to be resolved.
● There script has not been deciphered as of yet.
● There is a mystery regarding the decline of the civilization.
● Some scholars say that there was a massive earthquake.
● Others say that outsiders attacked them.
● Still others say that they died because they have prolonged droughts and famine because
ofdeforestation.
● Sometimes I dream of going back to the past and uncovering all these hidden mysteries.
● So this is the period of history I would like to know more about.
1. Do you think it is important to know about history? Should everyone learn about history?
Yes, it is very important to know about history. History tells us about our past and gives us a sense of
our identity, and it makes us feel like we are a part of something bigger. For example, we can’t
appreciate the freedom we enjoy today, unless we know that we were slaves in the past. History also
teachesus not to repeat the mistakes of the past.
2. How can children learn about history?

Children can learn about history from books written by eminent historians, from museums, and from
art galleries. Also, nowadays many websites have information about history. Finally, children can
watch historical movies and documentaries to learn about the past.
38
3.) What is difference between learning about history from books and from videos?
I think books contain a lot of factual details like dates and names which can make learning history
boring in a sense. Moreover, learning through videos can increase recall as our visual memory is far
long lasting. However, students also come out a lot of misinformation when learning from videos as
there are a lot of inaccuracies in films.
4.) Do you think it is difficult to protect and preserve historic buildings?

Yes, it’s very difficult in a sense as the maintenance costs for historic building is very high. To add to
it, not enough people are visiting such buildings and they are not earning enough. Finally, many
tourists are ignorant and vandalize the heritage sites by drawing graffiti on them. This leads to added
security challenges.
5.) Who should be responsible for protecting historic buildings?

I think, everyone should be responsible, the government authorities, the local people and the
tourists as well. Firstly, protection requires funds, which can only be organized by government. The
local people also have the responsibility to report any damaging activity to the government and
finally, tourists have the responsibility to no litter or harm the buildings in any way.
6.) Who should pay for the preservation of historical buildings?

I think it should be partly funded by the government and partly by the entry fees charged to the
visitors. It really depends upon the popularity of the historical building. If it’s very famous tourists,
the ticket prices may be enough to pay for the preservation. However, if it’s not as famous, then
government has to pay a considerable amount.
7. How do you think famous historical figures can serve as models for young people today?
Famous historical figures can definitely serve as role models for the young people of today. For
example, when the young people of my country learn about the sacrifices done by our great martyrs,
they are filled with a sense of patriotism, and want to do something for the country
8. Do people in your country like to visit museums?

Yes, people in my country like to visit museums. They learn a lot from them. The modern interactive
museums are more interesting for the young people and children. For example, people of my state
like to go to Pushpa Gujral Science City museum more than the other museums because they have a
lot to do and see over there.
9. Who do you think likes to go to museums more – children or adults?

Both, children and adults like to go to museums, but children enjoy those museums, which are
interactive.
10. Do you think museums should be free of cost to enter?

No, I do not think museums should be free of cost. These museums require a lot of maintenance. So
a minimum fee should be there. Moreover, people do not value something, which is given to them
absolutely free.
11. Do you think local people and tourists should pay the same amount to enter a museum?
Yes, local people and tourists should pay the same amount to enter museum. If tourists were charged
39
more it would be unfair. Some people think that local people are already paying for the upkeep of
the museums through taxes, so it would be okay if tourists were charged more. But I feel that tourists
are helping in the economy in many other ways, so there is no need to charge them more for
museums or other historical sites.
12. How do you think the museums of the future might be different from the museums of today?
What the future holds in store, no one can tell, but as far as I can see, the museums of the future
would be more interactive. New things would be added to them from time to time. Activities would
be there to entertain the children and others. Audiovisual aids would be used more.
13. How do you think the museums of the future might portray the 21st century?
Museums of the future might portray the 21st Century as an era of rapid progress in the field of
technology, transport, education and health.
18. Describe an unusual meal that you had.

- When did you eat it
- Where did you eat it?
- With whom you had the meal?
- Why do you think it was unusual?
 When I was a child, I used to be a very selective eater.

 My mother was always worried about my health.
 I used to drink milk but then I started avoiding it too.
 I remember, I used to intentionally spill milk or throw it in the washbasin when no one was
looking.
 Once I mother caught me throwing it.
 My parents scolded me a lot.
 My dad told my mother that I should not be given milk again.
 My mom was caught between a rock and a hard place.
 I don’t know how she came up with a fried milk recipe but the next day I was given some
cutlets instead of milk.
 I had no idea what they were but I loved them.
 From then on, every morning, I ate those fried things.
 I felt like the luckiest kid.
 I also took a few for my friends in school.
 They all loved them too.
 Someone in school asked me, what they were made of.
 I asked my mom but she said it's a secret.
 For a few days I forgot about it but then one day, I actually saw my mom making them from
the kitchen window.
 They were made from milk. It was fried milk.
 My mother had found a way of feeding me milk and at the same time making sure I didn’t
throw it.
 She added many other things to it like eggs, lemon peels, and cornstarch.
40
 I don’t think I would have eaten them, if I knew they were made from milk before tasting
them.
 My mother made a whole meal out of something I hated.
 It was of course less healthy as it was fried but she used very little oil too.
 Even now, I sometimes crave them.
 My mother is always ready to make them.
1. Do you think having dinner at home is a good idea?

Yes, of course. Home cooked meals are always healthier than meals at restaurants. At home we use
the best oils and add spices to our taste. We also wash the vegetables properly before cooking.
2. Do young people like to spend time with their families or friends?

Young people like to spend time with friends more because they have no generation gap with friends.
When they spend time with family, there are chances of misunderstandings. Parents have to be
friendly, otherwise young people drift away from them.
3. What do you think are the benefits of having dinner together?

When families have dinner together, it increases family bonding. They share their day’s happenings
with each other. It has also been seen that when families have 3-5 meals a week together, then
children do not fall into vices like drugs and alcohol.
4. Do you think people are less willing to cook meals by themselves these days, compared to the
past?
Yes, people have become more career oriented and have started earning more. When spending
capacity increases then people find easy way out and eat out.
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of eating in restaurants?

One significant advantage of eating in restaurants is that you don’t have to cook and clean. You get
to spend time with family and friends. You can try new cuisines and dishes that you don’t cook at
home. The disadvantages are it can be expensive and unhealthy. Restaurant food is full of saturated
fats and has a lot of calories.
6. What fast foods are there in your country?

In my country, you see hawkers selling fast food on every street. Typical fast foods are Pakora,
Samosa, Pav Bhaji, Tikki, Chole Bhature. Recently international fast-food chains like McDonald’s,
Pizza Hut, Burger King, Subway, etc, have opened up in all major cities and towns. So, Pizza, burgers,
and fries have become popular.
7. Do people eat fast food at home?

Yes, people do eat fast food at home. People are busy and don’t have time to cook. It’s very
convenient to have fast food delivered or order takeout on the way back from work. Sometimes it’s
even cheaper to eat fast food than cooking with fresh ingredients at home.
41
8. Why do some people choose to eat out instead of ordering takeout?
Eating out is fun, and people can meet friends and socialize. Also, people don’t have to wait in line
for takeout. They can sit down and relax in a restaurant. Also, food often gets cold by the time you
reach home.
9. Do people in your country socialize in restaurants? Why?

In my country people do socialize in restaurants. It is very relaxing, and people can bond with friends
and family over a nice meal.
10. Do people in your country value food culture?

Yes, food is an important part of our culture. India is very diverse and different states in India have their own
traditional food, recipes, and cooking techniques. People like to cook fresh homemade food daily and eat it
together with their families.
19. Describe an achievement/success you are

proud of
- What you did
- When did you do it
- How did you feel about it
- Why did that achievement make you proud
 Whenever anyone achieves anything, he or she is very proud of it.

 What may be a simple thing for one person may be an achievement for another.
 For me overcoming my glossophobia was a very difficult thing.
 I used to be very stage shy and could never speak in front of an audience.
 It so happened that once I participated in an environment fair held in my hometown.
 We were a team of four students – Mohit, Rohan, Ravi and I.
 We had to make a model on pollution.
 It was very difficult to collect ideas for the model, but our teacher, Mrs Promilla helped us.
 We collected all data from different sources like the internet, library, magazines and so on
 We presented all three types of pollution – air, water and noise pollution - on thermocol
 In this project we showed the causes, effects and ways to control pollution
 We had to speak turn wise on our model.
 I remember I was very afraid to speak.
 But my other friends gave me the confidence. I felt very good that I was part of that team.
 I spoke very well that time.
 Getting over my glossophobia was an accomplishment for me.
 I felt very good after that.
 We won the first prize in this competition.
 The judges specially mentioned that the first prize was mainly because of the verbal
explanation of the model.
 This fair was covered by the local cable TV and so many people of the neighborhood
congratulated me the next day.
42
 Our photograph was also there in the local newspaper Jag Baani.
 Our school principal also appreciated us
 I cannot forget that day.
 All four of us were on cloud nine on that day.
 So, this was an achievement I was proud of.
1. How to measure a person’s success?

It is very difficult to measure success. Success is a very subjective term. Different people give different
meaning to success. For some earning a lot of money means success. For others, leading a life in
which they can help others, means success. For a student, passing the exams with flying colors
means success. So measuring success is not easy.
2. Do you think the way people gain success has changed?

Yes, definitely, the way people gain success has changed. Earlier, people did a lot of hard work and
success was limited to a small area. Only politicians and film stars and sportsmen who were in the
news or national TV were successful over a wider area. But, nowadays, because of the reality shows,
any person with some talent can become successful overnight. People can get worldwide success
through the Internet, through YouTube and other such networks. Today, people know of Indian
successful businessmen, all over the world, because the world has shrunk.
3. How do you define success?

It is very difficult to define success. Success is a very subjective term. Different people give different
meaning to success. For some earning a lot of money means success. For others, leading a life in
which they can help others, means success. For a student, passing the exams with flying colors,
means success. So defining success is not easy.
4. How to reward successful people?

We can reward successful people by acknowledging their work. Some awards can be given. Some
monetary benefits can be given. Sometimes giving promotions is a good way to reward successful
people.
5. What’s the most difficult thing you have ever done?

I am very stage shy. I remember, in the annual science fair of my school, I had to speak on a model,
which I had prepared. The model was on different types of pollution. I found it very difficult, but
somehow I managed it. That was the most difficult thing I did.
6. What qualities does a person need to have, to be successful?

The person should be hard working. He should have good communication skills. He should have the
courage to take calculated risks. He should have a helping and caring nature.
7. Do you feel terrible when you fail to do something?

I feel terrible, but only for a short period of time. Then, I try to learn from my failure and work even
harder to succeed the next time.
43
8. Is failure a necessary thing in people’s life?
Yes, it is. Without knowing failure, we can never enjoy success. Without knowing about the night, we
can never enjoy the day. Without unhappiness, we can never enjoy happiness. The freedom we are
enjoying today is also because we have been under the British rule for a long time.
9. Is it important for young people to have some achievement?

I think it is an interesting question, having achievement at a young age certainly helps in gaining
confidence and teaches us the importance of hard work.
10. Which one is more important, personal goals or work goals?

I think both are equally important. Life is about balance, we can’t ignore either because ultimately
we will feel something missing if we ignore either. However, it is a fact that most people tend to
ignore personal goals as they aren’t monetarily rewarded like work goals.
11 Have your life goals changed since your childhood?

Certainly, firstly my interests have changed over time. I remember when I was really young, I saw a a
movie on space and I wanted to become a astronaut, but then it changed to becoming an doctor.
Moreover, as I grew older idealism was replaced by practicality. Finally, I have a achieved certain
goals in my life and so new ones have replaced them.
12. Does everyone set goals for themselves?

I think yes. They might not explicitly say what they want but everyone has certain goals in their minds.
Also, some people are more motivated than others to achieve them. So, we feel like some people
don’t have goals.
13. Do you think material rewards are important than other rewards at work?
Not necessarily. It really depends upon the person. Some people do care about money, but for others
it is about recognition and appreciation.
14. What makes people feel proud of themselves?

For me, it is about achieving something I knew was really challenging. I feel proud when I think I did
better than I expected. In addition, I feel proud when I do something that brings happiness to my
family.
44
20. Talk about a thing you complained about

something (but finally got a good result)
- What did you complain about
- Who you complained to
- When it happened
- What was the result and why you were satisfied with the result?
 Well, I am a kind of person who usually does not like to complain a lot.
 But when something is not done in the right way, I feel it's my duty to get it corrected, because
complaining about it will make sure that it does not happen again.
 Today, I would like to talk about a situation when I complained about a service and eventually
got it corrected
 It happened during last month when I had to get my account statement from the bank, which
I needed for applying my visa
 When I reached the bank in the morning, the officer told me that the bank’s printer was
broken.
 He asked me to come back again the next day.
 When I went to the bank the next day he again told me the same reason.
 I requested them to get it fixed as it was an urgent requirement for me, but the bank officials
did not seem to bother much about it.
 So I decided to file a complaint with the higher authorities.
 I came back home, opened the bank’s website and sent an email to the bank management at
their headquarters
 I immediately got a call back from them and they said they will take strict action against this
complaint.
 I thanked them and went again to the bank.
 To my surprise, as soon as I entered the bank, the manager came to me with my account
statement.
 They had got the printer fixed immediately after my complaint.
 I came to know that a lot of other people were also suffering because of this issue.
 The manager asked me to take my complaint back as senior management issued a notice to
him for not listening to the customers, but I refused to do the same.
 I told him it is his responsibility to look after the customers and listen to their problems.
 He then apologized for it and promised me that in future he will take great care about it.
 So this was a time when I complained about something and got a good result.
1. When do people usually complain?

People usually complain when they have been inconvenienced or face a discomfort. The other main
reason for people complaining is when they have been duped or cheated by someone. There are also
many people who may complain without any valid reason, as they may have a complaining attitude.
45
2. Can complaining help solve problems?
Yes, there are many scenarios when complaining helps solve problems. For instance, when a
product/appliance/gadget stops working or malfunctions, complaining to the customer support or
service helps solve the problem. There are many situations when people get duped or cheated and if
they complain to the authorities, they are very likely to get justice.
3. What other measures you should take to solve problems rather than complain
Sometimes complaining is not the best solution to problems that we face. For instance, the traffic
problems in many cities are due to people themselves not following the traffic rules. However,
complaining about it doesn’t solve it, taking steps and initiatives at the individual level can help
resolve such issues.
4. What kind of people complain?

People who are aware of their rights and entitlements complain when they do not receive what they
deserve or have been promised. However, there may be some people who complain without any
valid/solid reason. Such people are usually unaware and do not want to take responsibility for their
actions.
5. Do you usually get angry?

No, I do not usually get angry. However, there are situations which make me angry, like when I see
someone doing or saying something wrong and inappropriate. Sometimes reading or watching the
news about crimes, corruption, and terrorist attacks and innocent people losing their lives makes me
angry.
6. Do you think customers’ complaints will improve product or services?

Yes, definitely. Every company knows that the customer is the king nowadays. If they get a complaint,
they listen to it and try to improve. If they improve only then they retain their customers.
7. Is it necessary for companies to set up customer service?

Yes, it is necessary for companies to set up customer service. They have to listen to their customers.
Positive feedbacks, as well as negative feedbacks are important for every company.
8. Are there any disadvantages to set up customer service?

Yes, sometimes some rival company may misuse and put up negative things just to spoil the name of
the company.
9. Would you buy things in the shops in which you have made complaints before?
If my complaint has been listened to satisfactorily then I would go there again. This means they care
for their customers.
10. What product or services do people in your country like to complain about?
People complain about everything that doesn’t live up to their expectations. Supposing, someone
has paid a heavy amount for some product or service and they don’t get back what they expected,
they complain.
46
11. Do you think it is better to complain, by talking or in writing?
I think a written complaint is always better, because this helps to keep proof of steps taken by the
person to resolve the issue. If the issue is not resolved, it can be used as evidence in the courts.
12. Who are more likely to complain, young people or old people?
I think young people complain much more often as they have very high expectations and they are
also not very patient. Old people have seen how things have improved over time and thus even if
things are not perfect, they accept because they are generally better than the past.
21. Describe when someone gave you something

you really wanted /a gift your received
- Who gave it to you
- What was the thing
- When you received it
- Why you needed it?
- How you felt about it
● In my life, I have never asked anyone for anything but there have been occasions when people
have given gifts to me and it made me feel really happy.
● Today I would like to talk about once such occasion when someone gifted me a thing that I was
planning to buy on my own
● It was given to me by my brother who is working as an engineer in Canada
● My brother loves me very much and is a kind hearted person
● He gifted me the latest iPhone X and I was completely astonished (greatly surprised) when I
came to know that he got this phone for me.
● Actually I had been saving for this phone for a lot of months but still i didn't have enough money
to buy it
● I also read a lot of reviews about this phone and watched a lot of videos on YouTube as
wellabout this phone
● It’s an awesome phone with lot of great features like face recognition, wireless charging and
dual cameras.
● My brother was visiting us during the last winters and he saw me doing a lot of research about
this phone on the internet
● He knew that I wanted this phone badly
● So he went ahead and bought this phone for me without letting me know
● He gave this phone to me as a surprise on Christmas
● When I woke up on Christmas morning the phone was lying inside a sock next to my bed.
● At first I didn't believe if it was real or a dream but then when everyone started congratulating
me, I felt elated.
● I thanked my brother a lot and I called him my Santa Claus.
● So this was the moment when I felt extremely joyful on receiving something I really wanted.
47
1. What is the relationship between shopping and economy of your country?

Shopping improves the economy and as economy improves, people do more shopping. So,
both things depend on each other.
2. What are the things young people like to buy?

Young people like to buy clothes, shoes, electronic gadgets and many other products.
3. How your friends influence your shopping choice?

Friends suggest me things to buy. My friends are very brand conscious. So,they keep a
lookout on the various offers by various branded stores. For example, recently, there was an
offer on Levis jeans. Two jeans were free on purchase of one. So, we bought one for Rs
3000/- and got two free. Each one had to pay only 1000/- for the Levis jeans.
4. Is consumption important to a country?

Yes, consumption is very important to a country for its economy to grow/progress.
Consumption means customer demand and that leads to mass production, employment and
makes any business profitable. However, over consumption can be negative as it leads to a
consumerist and materialistic society. It also leads to environmental damage. So, people
should draw a line on their consumption of consumer goods and it shouldn’t lead to the
above mentioned drawbacks or a throwaway society.
5. What should parents do when their children ask for things their friends have?
Parents should make the children understand the difference between needs and desires.
Parents should also be transparent about the affordability and family budget limitations so
that children become more responsible and don’t demand things from their parents only
because of peer pressure.
6. Why do people buy things that are not necessary?

People sometimes buy things that are unnecessary because of their materialistic nature. It
could also be due to peer or societal pressures. Sometimes people may stock things in the
hope that it is something that they may need in the future.
7. Should employees have their own goals?

I think it’s really important for employees to have their goals, if they want to grow in life.
I think the work life is changing very rapidly because of technology and employees need
toupdate themselves with the latest skills if they want to succeed at work.
8. How should bosses reward employees?

The increasing attrition levels have made it really essential for companies to reward
employees. It can be done in different way. Firstly, there can be monetary incentives based
on performance. Moreover, there can be appreciation in the form of employee of the month
badge or a mention in the company newsletter or blog. Finally, I think one of the best ways
to reward employees is to offer time off work, as employees are finding it really challenging
to main work life balance these days.
48
9. What kinds of gifts do young people like to receive as gifts?

I think it really depends upon the person but if I have to generalize I would say technological
gadgets and clothes. I think young people’s lives revolve around technology so anything
technology oriented is appreciated.
10. How should children spend their allowance?

I think children should be allowed to decide that themselves based on their interests. For
example, if they like sports, they should be allowed to buy sporting goods. However, if they
waste their allowance, parents should be strict and not give them extra money.
11. Why do people like shopping more than in the past?

One reason is growing materialism. Owning new products gives us happiness. As a result, as
soon as things become old and lose their novelty, we tend to renew that charm by buying
something new. Secondly, people have more disposable income than in the past and thus
they can buy a lot more than in the past.
12. Do you think shopping is a good for a country’s economy?

Although there are certain drawbacks of excessive shopping, I consider it beneficial overall.
Shopping creates demand, which in effect creates jobs and growth of industries and thus benefits the
economy.However, shopping may also increase debt in the society which is detrimental.
22. Describe a development in your country like

shopping Centre, park etcetera
- What is the development
- When you heard about it
- How did it influence you?
• I think developments in infrastructure are very essential for the progress of a nation.
• Developments could be in sectors like healthcare, education, housing etcetera
• Today, I would like to talk about a recent development in our country which is related to the
transportation sector.
• Last month our honorable Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi ji inaugurated the first
automatic/unmanned/driverless metro train in the national capital Delhi.
• The launch of this train was covered by all the new channels and leading newspapers.
• That is how I came to know about it.
• This metro train connects several stations between New Delhi and Noida a city adjoining the
national capital
• The launch of this train has benefitted millions of people who otherwise travel by bus or other
transport means like their own cars and motorbikes
• It has reduced their travel time significantly and It has also become more convenient for them
to travel from one place to another.
• The coaches of the train are imported from Germany and are made of very high quality steel.
49
• I believe the government should introduce more such trains in the major cities of our country
because it provides a lot of benefits to the people and the environment.
• Moreover, it decreases the number of traffic jams in the city and the pollution caused when
people use their own private vehicles
• This train has no driver; it is remotely controlled by a computer thus avoiding any human
errors that can cause accidents.
• When I first told my friends about this train, all of them were surprised/amazed/astonished to
hear that a train can run without a driver as well.
• This train has 8 coaches and capacity to carry 1000 people at one time
• The coaches are very modern and have free Wi-Fi and phone charging facility as well.
• The train also has seats reserved specially for the elderly and women
• But when I showed them the news they were very excited about it.
• We have also made a plan to travel by this train, next month.
1.) What transportation do you use the most?

I normally travel by my own car. When I was younger and I couldn’t drive, I used to travel by bus.
2.) Is public transportation popular in India?

Yes, India is developing country and many people still can’t afford their vehicle. Therefore, public
transportation is quite popular.
3.) What can be improved in public transport services?

As far as India is concerned, the list is endless. It could be made faster and more comfortable. It
could also be made eco-friendly and finally the frequency needs to be improved as many people
need to wait a long time for the next bus or train.
4.) What leisure facilities can be used by people of all ages?

I think nearly all the leisure facilities can be used by all the people. However, shopping malls and
cinema theatres are the two, where people are more likely to meet people from all age groups.
5.) Do you think young people in your country like to visit cinemas?
Yes, I think young people are very interested in watching movies at the cinema. However, the
coming of OTT apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu have reduced their popularity to a certain
extent.
6.) How is the subway system developing in your country?

Its developing really fast, especially in big cities. It started with Delhi a decade ago and now nearly
every metropolitan city has a subway or underground railway system. Now government is planning
to construct metro is Tier 2 cities as well.
50
23. Describe a time when you had to lend

something to a person you know.
- What you lent
- When it happened
- Why he/she asked to borrow the item.
- Explain how you felt about this.
- Would you let him borrow it again in future
 Normally, I do not like borrowing or lending things.

 In fact, I borrow things only as a last resort. 
 In case of lending, I am strictly against lending money, but I do lend other things sometimes.
 Today, I am going to talk about a time when I lent my scooter to a neighbor.
 It was about a month ago. 
 My neighbor had an exam in the neighboring city, Jalandhar.
 Unfortunately, there was a public transportation strike that day.
 My neighbor has a bike but he had a small accident a few days prior to the exam, so his bike
was with a mechanic.
 The strike was also announced last minute, so he couldn’t make prior arrangements.
 On the day of the exam, he told me about his predicament and asked if he could borrow my
bike for a day.
 I had no work that day and so I lent it to him.
 Like I said before, I normally don’t like when others ask to borrow things for me.
 However, it was a rare circumstance and I couldn’t even think of saying no.
 In fact, I felt good about helping my friend. 
 At the same time, I was a bit worried because my bike was brand new.
 My friend returned the bike the same day as soon as he came back.
 In the future, I wouldn’t mind lending it again, if it is a dire situation like that time.
 However, I don’t think he will ask again.

1. What do you think of people who are posting about their personal life on social media?
Personally, I don’t do it because I think it can be really dangerous. However, I also think its
people’s personal decision and I don’t judge people on the basis of this. I know many people
are earning money by doing this, so I can see why people do it.
2. How do you feel about sharing research documents online?

I wouldn’t do it before the research is published, but I think if the research is shared for the
benefit of the people after publishing, it is completely understandable.
3. Do you think children should share their things with each other?
Within the family, I think there is no question that siblings should share their toys and clothes
with each other. With regards to other children, I think it good to share toys when they visit
to play but I don’t think they should lend the toys for them to take home.
51
4. Why aren’t children willing to share their things, such as toys?

I think they learn and observe these things from their parents. If their parents are very
possessive about materialistic things, they also turn out so.
5. How can parents teach their children about sharing?

I think children should be rewarded for sharing things. For example, they can be bought new
toys if they readily share their toys. Similarly, parents can punish them by not talking to them
for some time if they refuse to share their things.



24. Describe a person you met at a party and

enjoyed a conversation with. You should say
- Who was the person?
- What topics did you discuss?
- How did you feel?
 I am an introvert and so it is really difficult for me to converse with strangers.

 I don’t normally start conversations and let people strike up a conversation first.
 However, two three months I met a person at a marriage party and I had a really enjoyable
conversation with him.
 I was the groom’s friend and he was the bridegroom’s cousin.
 We were seated together at the wedding and he just randomly asked my name.
 As we started talking we came to know that we shared many interests.
 We are both interested in politics, cricket and video gaming.
 The conversation just flowed with him
 We talked about so many things.
 He told me about the recent games we had played online.
 We also added each other on steam, a gaming website as we both loved playing the same
game.
 He was from UP and I was really interested in what changes had came in UP with the new
government.
 I had seen and heard a lot of things in the news and I wanted to know if they were true.
 He gave me an insider’s perspective.
 Then, we started discussing cricket.
 We discussed our favourite players, the most memorable matches in recent times.
 We also planned to watch a match together in the future.
 It was really fun hanging out with him overall.
 Normally I feel bored at marriages and I am always eager to leave as early as possible.
 However, that day, we were among the last people to leave home.
52
1. Under what circumstances do you meet new people, and when do you communicate with people
you don't know?
I think I meet new people mainly when I am travelling or at parties. We are social beings and I
think we communicate with new people when we don’t know anyone. In other words, when we
feeling alone. We also do it when we find someone interesting and we want to know more about
them.
2.) Where do people go to meet new people?

I think earlier people used to functions, parties or travel to new places to meet new people. However,
now they go to social media websites and apps like Facebook and Instagram. Technology has really
changed the way we socialise and make new friends
3. What topics do you discuss with new acquaintances?

I think it can be anything I am interested in, which is in fact quite broad. I love talking politics,
sports, coffee, movies, tv shows, video games, fashion products. I sometimes also talk about studies
but that’s rare.
4. What topics are not suitable for discussion?

I think there are very few things, which I find unsuitable. Firstly, I don’t like talking about money or
how much people earn. In India, its quite common to talk about salaries even when we meet
someone the first time, but I don’t find it suitable. I also don’t feel its appropriate to talk about
religion.
5. What's the difference between chatting with friends and new people?
Firstly, I think I am much less reserved with friends. There are very few topics, I don’t talk about
with friends. Secondly, the conversation gets much more personal and detailed with friends. For
example, I have talked about mundane things like what I ate last night or what time I woke up with
my friends. Finally, I don’t mind discussing embarrassing stories with my friends, but I would never
do that with strangers.
6.) How do people start a conversation?

One of the most common ways to talk about the weather. Another way is to compliment someone
or their clothes and then ask where they got that particular dress from. Sometimes, people also just
introduce themselves.
7.) Is it difficult for Indian people to talk to foreigners?

Both yes and no. Yes, because naturally most Indians are bit shy and its difficult for them to initiate
a conversation. However, many Indians are also fluent in English, so that makes it easier.
8.) Why are some people unwilling to have conversations with strangers?
One of the reasons is increasing crime. People are worried about talking or mixing up with people
they don’t know. Secondly, many people consider it to be waste of time. They feel like we should
only converse if we have a purpose.
53
25. Describe an area in your home where you feel

relaxed.
- In which area/room do you feel relaxed
- Why do you feel relaxed there
- What do you do to feel relaxed
- It is undeniable that life is becoming more and more stressful day by day.
- So, I think relaxation is really important in our life.
- Different people do different thing to feel relaxed.
- I personally like to do yoga every morning to relax myself.
- I do this in the small balcony adjoined to my room.
- I do this for many reason.
- Firstly, there are many trees in the vicinity.
- Also, I do it in the morning, so I can hear the birds chirping.
- As such I feel like I am spending time with nature.
- It has a very calming effect.
- Secondly, yoga itself is the best form of relaxation.
- It is a mind body exercise which involves physical poses, controlled breathing and meditation.
- The combination of all three has a very soothing effect on our mind.
- Its as if we feel refreshed and renewed.
- Controlling breathing and meditation helps to silence the mind.
- It is a beautiful feeling thinking about nothing.
- Finally, I have painted the balcony and decorated it with my own hands.
- Whenever I spend time there I feel like I can see the efforts of my labour.
- In turn, it makes me feel like I can achieve anything I put my heart to.
- Sometimes, I just there with a hot cup of tea and read the newspaper.
- I don’t know why but I feel I can concentrate a lot better when I am in the balcony.
- For all these reasons, I find my rooms balcony as the best place to relax in my house.

1. Do you think exercise is important for mental and physical health?
Definitely, physical health is directly dependent upon exercise. With today’s sedentary lifestyles it is
nearly impossible to be healthy without exercise. Similarly, when we exercise, we feel more
confident about our looks and this makes us much more social, which in effect is good for people
mental health.
2. Why do people feel stressful all the time?

I think there are many reasons for the increasing stress in our lives. One is the growing competition,
which has reduced job security. So people are always stressed about their work and job. Secondly,
today people have very high expectations. When we expect much more than it is possible, we are
bound to be stressed. Finally, stress is relieved by talking to friends but as people are spending less
and less time with each other. As a result people feel stressed all the time.
3. Do you think there should be classes for teaching young people and children how to be relaxed?
Yes, I think it has become essential in today’s time. The growing rate of mental issues and
54
depression among youth are evidence that it is very crucial that we teach young people how to deal
with stress. I think it can be done by having relaxation classes in school itself. Moreover, if they
learn to deal with stress at a young age, they can deal with it much better when they become
adults.
4. Why is it difficult for some people to relax?

I think its just because they have really high expectations and they are not content with what they
have. Some people also find it difficult because they are in important positions and they constantly
face new challenges.
5. Do people in your country exercise after work?

Many people do but many people don’t. However, as people are becoming more conscious about
their looks and thus its becoming more common. In fact, that’s the reasons many gyms are opening
up.
6. Where do people spend most of their time at home?

I think most people spend the most time at home in the living room. As most places have a TV in
the living room, people like to spend their time in the living room. In recent years, as hobbies are
becoming more individual, people are spending more and more time in their own rooms.
26. Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free

time when you were young
You should say:
- What it was
- Where you did it
- With whom you do this activity
- And explain why you enjoyed it
 I enjoyed many free time activities when I was young, such as playing hide and seek reading
comics watching cartoon shows on TV and so many more
 Here, I would like to talk about playing cricket.
 There was an open ground in front of my house
 All the children of the neighbourhood used to play in that ground
 We made a team of 10 and started playing cricket
 I remember I was in seventh at that time
 We all pooled in money from our pocket money and bought a cricket kit
 I used to keep that kit in my home
 We used to play for 1 to 2 hours after school time
 I remember are used to finish my homework imagery after coming from school so that I
could go and play cricket.
 If I did not finish my homework, my mother would not allow me to go and play.
 It was the same with all other friends.
 So, in fact, this game brought some discipline in our lives.
 Our parents had no problem with us playing there as long as we did not disturb the
neighbours.
55
 I remember once I hit a six and it broke the window glass of one of my neighbours.
 My father had to pay for the damages done by me.
 After that we made it a point not to hit so strongly.
 This activity went on uninterrupted for about three years.
 After that a coloniser bought that area and started building houses over there.
 We could not play any more over there.
 But I still remember how much fun we had then.
 On Sundays we used to spend the whole day playing cricket there.
 The scorching heat of June and July did not deter us from playing.
 Whenever I see children play cricket in any ground, I am reminded of those good old days of
my childhood.
1. What do people in your country like to do when they are free?

People do a lot of things during their free time, most of the people like to gossip with each other or
get in touch with friends and mobile. Nowadays, most of the people use the mobile phones to listen
music or watch videos whenever they are free.
2. Do you think parents should make plans for their children?

Yes parents should definitely make plans for their children because if they are kept free then they
will get bored and might create trouble for others. Also the children can learn a lot of things if there
parents plan their time
3. Do you think most people are able to manage their free time?
I think most people get very little free time these days so they do not think about managing it.
Everyone is very busy these days and people hardly get time to relax so whenever they get free
they like to do nothing
4. What is the difference between the things people did in their free time in the past and the
things they do nowadays?
In the past there was hardly any technology so people mostly did gossip during their free time
whereas nowadays people have access to lot of gadgets which keep them busy when they are free.
5. Is it important to have a break during work or study?

Definitely, I think our brains can only pay attention to something for a limited time before getting
distracted. Without a break, we lose our ability to concentrate and ultimately it affects our
productivity.
6. What kind of sports do young people like to play nowadays?

Youngsters play the same kind of sports as in the past like cricket, football, soccer, hockey etcetera.
However, youngsters today play less sports as compared to the past as they prefer electronic
games.
7. Are they more activities for young people now than 20 years ago?
Without a doubt, yes. I think the coming of Internet has opened up so many more avenues than in
the past. For example, youngsters today have opportunity to play electronic games with their
56
friends online, spend time on social media. Even with regards to traditional activities, like playing
chess, they can play with so many people online, which was not possible in the past.
8. Can most people achieve work life balance in India?

On the contrary, I feel very few people are able to do that. The increasing competition and long
working hours mean that people are finding it very hard to find time for their loved ones.
9. Do people have enough time for leisure activities nowadays?

No, I don’t think so. The increasing familial responsibilities due to nuclear families and long working
hours give people very little time for leisure activities. This lack of time is the biggest time for the
increasing stress in people’s lives.
27. Describe a course that you want to learn / study

you would like to do in future/ something that you
would like to learn in the future
- What this course is
- When you want to learn it
- Where you can learn it
- And explain why you want to learn it
• A course I would really like to do in the future is a language course.

• A language I would like to learn is French
• There are many reasons for this
• The first and foremost reason is that I want to visit my uncle and aunt who live in France
• They told me that if you wish to communicate with Franco phones it is very essential to
know some French
• There, very few people know English
• My uncle has also offered to sponsor my fees for higher education if I decide to study in
France.
• In that case, if I choose to study there, then learning French would be a necessity
• Another reason is that my parents are planning to move to Canada
• So, my knowledge of French would come very handy there
• It might help me in getting a job
• French is spoken in 33 countries
• It is the second most commonly taught language after English
• Even in my country, if I know a foreign language, then I can get a good job in the tourism
industry
• Everyone knows, tourists from all parts of the world flock to India
• Those who are multilingual definitely stand a better chance in the job market.
• Fortunately, a language training Institute by the name of Aroma Language Centre has
opened in my home town
• They teach French, German and Italian.
• Their next batch is starting soon.
• I would enroll in that batch.
• Two of my friends have started learning French there.
57
• They told me that the teacher is very nice.
• They also told me that French is a beautiful language.
1. What’s the most popular thing to learn nowadays?

Digital marketing is a very popular skill to learn these days. Earlier companies mainly used print, TV,
and Radio to reach consumers. Now corporations worldwide use digital channels like websites, email,
search engines, and social media platforms to reach consumers. Digital marketing is one of the most
in-demand skills, and there are many job opportunities in this field.
2. At what age should children start making their own decisions? Why?
Once children reach high school, parents should let them make their own decisions. When they are
younger, parents can help them with their options and help them choose. But as they get older,
parents should let them decide and even let them face the consequences of their decisions. It’s a
learning experience for them. When the decisions are complex and complicated, like choosing a
major, parents should advise but let children make the final decision.
3. What influences young people more when choosing a course, income, or interest?
I think it differs from person to person. Some young people choose a career/course based on the
income and job opportunities in that field. They want to afford the necessities and give their families
a comfortable life. Some choose based on their interest, even if the area they choose is not that high
paying. They choose their happiness and passion over money. Sometimes, a person may be very
passionate about a career that also offers a big paycheck.
4. Do young people take their parents' advice when choosing a major?

Yes, most young people take their parents' advice when choosing a major. They understand that their
parents have more experience and want their children to be successful. Their parents may have
different views, and eventually young people should choose a major they want.
5. Besides parents, who else would people take advice from?

Students can also take advice from teachers and school counselors. Teachers have closely worked
with students and know their strengths and weaknesses. School counselors can also help students
decide on a career path. They can help them narrow down their interests and capabilities and choose
a major that will align with their career goals.
6. Why do some people prefer to study alone?

Some people prefer to study alone because they can concentrate better when they are by
themselves. They can also work at their own pace and understand the concepts of one topic
thoroughly before they move on to the next topic.
7. Should schools teach both arts and science?

Yes, schools should teach both arts and science. Both subjects are important in school. Science and
technology give us better life but arts tell us how to live that life. In Science truths are proved and
phenomena are explained. In art they are interpreted. Art makes people enjoy life, gives people the
pleasure of living from the mental level. That’s why both are important to be taught in schools.
58
8. What kinds of courses are useful for university students?
University students can do any course according to their choice. All courses have their own importance. Some
courses help in the job market. Some are just for personal fulfillment
9. What school activities are good for schoolchildren?

All curricular and extra-curricular activities are good for children. They should study academic
subjects as well as take part in sports, music etc.
28. Describe a character from a movie

You should say:
- Who is this character
- When did you watch the movie
- What was the character
 I am a movie buff and like to watch movies of all genres.

 Nowadays, I mostly watch movies on streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime.
 For some special movies like those starring my favorite actors or the big blockbusters, I like to
see them at the movie theatre.
 As far as characters, I feel that there have been many memorable and iconic ones that I have
admired
 Here I would like to talk about the main character of the movie Laal Singh Chaddha.
 This movie is the Bollywood remake and adaptation of the classic Hollywood movie Forrest
Gump.
 I watched this movie last year on its release day (August 2022).
 I was eagerly waiting for this movie as it stars my favorite actor Aamir Khan who plays the
character of Laal Singh Chaddha.
 Having seen Forrest Gump, I knew only Aamir Khan could do justice to the role of the main
character played by Tom Hanks in the original movie.
 He is a phenomenal actor and, in the past, has starred in many memorable Bollywood films
like Lagaan, Dil Chahta Hai, Dangal, etc.
 He is very picky, does only one movie a year, and gives his all to the movie. This movie was his
comeback to the big screen after four years.
 Its release got delayed several times due to covid restrictions.
 The main character Laal Singh Chaddha is shown as a slow-witted but kindhearted Sikh man.
 In the movie, he recounts his life story to some passengers he meets on the train.
 The movie is about his extraordinary journey and devotion to his loved ones and duties. His
life is full of miracles, and he becomes successful in everything he does.
 As a child, he wears legs braces due to a physical disability but one day when some bullies are
chasing him, he runs, his braces fall off and he becomes faster and faster.
 After college, he joins the army where he performs very well and is rewarded for saving several
lives during the war.
 He returns back home and starts an underwear company with a partner who is actually a
terrorist he saved. His company does exceptionally well and becomes popular throughout
India.
 He reunites with his only childhood friend, but when she leaves, he becomes lonely and starts
59
running. He runs across India for several months and becomes famous.
 People think he is running for a great purpose and start running with him.
 When he eventually stops, people ask him why he stopped, and he simply answers, 'I am tired
and want to go home.'
 I will always remember the emotional honesty of this simple character. 
1. Is it fun to be an actor?
I don’t think it is fun to be an actor as at the beginning of their career actors have to memorize
lines, give auditions and face rejections. Like any other job, it takes a lot of hard work, dedication,
and luck to be a successful actor. However, it is a rewarding career once you become famous and
successful.
2. What can children learn from acting?

I think children can learn a lot from acting. It builds their confidence, teaches them how to work in a
team, improves their public speaking skills and their creativity, and can be very fun at the same
time.
29. Describe an English class/lesson that you

enjoyed
You should say:
What was taught in the class
When did you take the class
Where it was?
What did the teacher do that made you enjoy it
 English is not my mother tongue.

 I had learnt English in my childhood
 However, because of lack of practice, I thought I needed to revise my basics before I took the
IELTS exam.
 So, I recently attended an English class while I was starting my preparation.
 Actually, when I started the preparation, I got some of my writing tasks evaluated by teachers.
 My teachers told me that I was making grammatical mistakes and I was making errors in the
usage of tenses especially.
 At first, I picked up the grammar book by Wren & Martin but it was too big.
 I think I read the first two chapters and then gave up.
 I didn’t have the time or the patience to read the whole book.
 So, I searched for some English tenses lessons on YouTube.
 There I came across a group of lectures on various tenses on a channel called Learn English
with Milly.
 The lectures had me hooked from the get go.
 The most interesting part of the lectures was that they made comparisons between the
tenses.
 It was like the lectures had been custom made to address the problem I was facing because
60
the main problem I was facing was in tenses.
 The teacher explained everything in detail and although the lectures were long, I didn’t get
bored.
 I think it was because of the humour.
 After every few minutes, the teacher said something that grabbed my attention and made me
alert.
 I never felt like I was attending a lecture but rather enjoying a fun conversation with time.
 I think my English has improved a lot because of those lessons and I am really glad I stumbled
upon those videos.
1. What are the benefits of learning a foreign language?

There are many benefits of learning a foreign language. Firstly, it helps students academically, as the
skills they learn in one language like comprehension and finding out the main theme of a paragraph
can also be applied to their language. Secondly, it opens up more opportunities in the future. For
example, it can help students pursue higher education in a foreign country. Similarly, a foreign
language can help people secure a job in a company, which deals with foreign clients.
2. What are the benefits of being a foreign language teacher?

The main benefit of teaching another language is that the person can enhance their knowledge of
the language. I think people learn much more about the language when they teach than when they
study it.
Secondly, foreign languages also tend to get paid better and they might also get opportunities to
travel abroad. Finally, I feel the language classes have the most diversity in terms of age. I have seen
people as old as seventy learning French and German. So, it never gets boring teaching a foreign
language as people get to meet different people.
3. Will computers replace foreign language teachers in the future?

I think computers are certainly beneficial in helping students learn a foreign language. However, I do
not think computers can replace language teachers completely. Computers can help students
improve their grammar and pronunciation but they cannot help students develop or express ideas.
Moreover, there are cultural aspects to a language, which can be only taught by a teacher in my
opinion.
4. Is grammar the most difficult part about learning a foreign language?

No, I don’t think grammar is the most difficult part as there are certain rules of grammar. I think it is
logical and so it can be learnt with practice. However, pronunciation can be very tricky as I find there
are no fixed rules to it.
5. Do you think grammar is important in language learning?

Yes, I think grammar is really important in language learning. If the grammar is wrong, the sentence
can give out a completely different meaning and it can lead to misunderstandings and
embarrassment.
For example, I taught, and I was taught mean completely different things, just the presence of was in
the middle - changes the meaning completely.
61
6 What makes a good foreign language teacher?
 I think a good foreign language teacher should have mastery in both the native and foreign language.
They should have in-depth knowledge about the vocab and rules of the language. Also the language
teacher should be patient with their students
30. Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded

You should say
- What it was?
- How did you complete it?
- Why it was difficult?
- And how you felt about doing it?
 Well, I have done many things in my life which I found difficult in the beginning but then with
practice they became easy.
 For example, I found cooking to be very difficult at first but now I can cook anything easily by
just following the recipe.
 But one challenging thing I would like to talk about today is when I assembled my own
Personal Computer two years back.
 It was after my exams were over and I had requested my parents for a new desktop.
 All my friends had bought branded Personal Computers from Dell and HP which came pre-
installed with all the software.
 However, being a gamer, I was more interested in getting a gaming computer with a more
powerful configuration but buying a branded gaming PC was out of my budget.
 So, I discussed it with one of my techie friends and he advised me to buy the computer parts
separately and assemble it on my own, as it would cost much less than a branded PC.
 Since I did not have much knowledge about computer hardware at that time, it seemed very
difficult to me to do this task on my own.
 But I still decided to go ahead and started reading a book on computer hardware and also
started to watch computer assembly videos on youtube, which gave me a lot of confidence.
 Through the videos I learnt a lot about the different computer parts and their functioning.
 Finally, after I gained enough confidence, I ordered all the components online as it was much
cheaper than the retail shops.
 It took me a complete day to put all the parts together and basically the most difficult part
was building the CPU.
 One has to be very careful while installing the processor on the motherboard and then
installing cooling fans over it.
 If this process is not done carefully it could lead to a short circuit and the processor could get
damaged.
 Luckily, I was able to put it all together perfectly in my first attempt and when I pressed the
power button, I heaved a sigh of relief.
 I was very nervous during the entire assembly process, but I also felt that if I hadn’t read the hardware
book and watched the videos on youtube, I would not have been able to do this thing on my own.
62
Follow-ups
1. What kinds of jobs require people to be confident?

I think all jobs require a certain degree of confidence but the ones which involve dealing with
customers require a lot more confidence. For example, if a salesperson is not confident enough then
he will not be able to convince the customers about the product he/she is trying to sell.
2. On what occasions should children be encouraged? How?

I think children should be encouraged in those situations where they feel hesitant in doing something
that is good for them. But also, the encouragement should be done to a certain limit, they should not
feel like something is being forced upon them. For example, we can encourage children to learn
something creative such as painting if they show interest in it. And to encourage them more, parents
can take them to a museum so they can develop their interest further
3. How do you help children stay focused?

There are many ways in which children can be helped. First of all, one can provide them an
environment which is free of distractions, like when they are studying, they should not be allowed to
use cellphones. Another way to help them focus would be to teach them about meditation in which
they have to focus on their breath or a single sound.
4. What challenges do young people face today?

Well, I think there are two main challenges that young people face these days. The first one is related
to the mind and mental health, nowadays everyone is aware of the rise in depression and suicide
cases among the youth. Another challenge faced by them is the ever-increasing competition in
education or their professional lives.
31.Describe an object you find particularly beautiful

(For example, a painting, sculpture, pieceof
jewellery/furniture, etc.).
You should say:
Where the artwork/object is
How it was made/Where you saw it
What it looks like
And explain why you find it particularly beautiful?
 Art is very difficult to evaluate because it is very subjective.

 To add to it, I have a very unique taste.
 Most times, the things that I find things appealing, my friends and family members find
ordinary.
 However, recently I bought a Lord Buddha statue for my room and most of my friends also
said that it looked amazing.
 In fact, some of them even asked me where I got it, so they could order one for themselves.
 I have always been fascinated with Buddhist culture since my youth and so I always wanted
63
to decorate my room with a Buddha statue.
 A smiling Buddha statue is also supposed to bring luck if given as a present.
 In the statue I got, he is also smiling, but at the same time, he is skiing
 He is wearing a snow cap, goggles, and a sort of kimono like dress.
 His hands are clasped together as if he is in a warrior stance.
 But his clothes and the smile on his face give him a very funny look.
 If I had to define the statue, I would say its a smiling warrior monk in the modern world.
 I just found it so exquisite and unique.
 As soon as I saw it, I wanted it for my room.
 In fact, it's the first piece of art I bought for myself.
 I don’t exactly know how it was made, because I purchased it from a store and I really didn’t
enquire about the making process.
 But I think it was hand sculpted from stone and then polished because the shop had hand-
made Buddhist statues written somewhere.
 I really think it is the most beautiful thing in my room.
 I have kept it on the top of my bookshelf as it is directly in front of my room’s main door.
 So, no one can miss it when they visit my room.
Follow Up Questions
1. Do you think there are more beautiful things now than the past?
In my personal opinion, traditional art and sculptures are much more beautiful. I think in the past, it
was easier for artists to find patrons in the form of kings and nobles and they could focus on their art
without any financial worries. However, today it is much harder to earn money as an artist. The art
being made today also reflects that - it is done more as a hobby rather than as a profession and the
works produced are far behind those of the past.
2. Do you think there are many scenic spots in India or there are many more in other countries?
I think India is one of the most diverse countries. It has everything, mountains, rivers, deserts, and
beaches. To add to it, it has one of the richest cultural histories. So, I think it is hard to beat India in
this regard. However, India is also one of the most highly populated and polluted countries in the
world and because of this, a lot of scenic spots cannot match the pristine and untouched beauty
present in some of the rich European and American countries.
3 Where do you think people usually come into contact with beautiful things?
People like to keep beautiful objects in their homes and offices as showpieces. They generally get
them from the décor shops in the malls.
4 Why do you think people create beautiful things?

People create beautiful things to express their creativity. Some people also say that art is a form
which connects us with our spiritual being. With the help of art people can also connect with each
other.
64
32. Describe a time you used your cellphone/

smartphone to do something important
You should say:
What happened?
When it happened
How important the cellphone/smartphone was
And explain how you felt about the experience
 In today’s world, it is hard to question the importance of cellphones

 They are not just about communication, they are used for many different things.
 Recently, I used my mobile phone for something I never imagined I would use it.
 I used to it lodge a complaint with the government authorities and I also got immediate
redressal for my complaint.
 I was travelling to Delhi by train.
 When I boarded, I noticed that the AC in my compartment was not working.
 I asked the coach's caretaker if they could get it fixed.
 He said it had just stopped working and nothing could be done about it.
 It would only be fixed at the final destination.
 Normally, I am very adjusting, but it was extremely hot and humid that day.
 So, I decided to tweet a complaint to the railway minister with my phone.
 I had seen videos on the internet, where people had talked about how they had gotten
immediate relief by doing the same.
 However, I had thought of them as publicity stunts by the government.
 So I wasn’t very hopeful, but within ten minutes, there was an electrician in my compartment.
 And in another ten minutes, he had fixed the AC.
 He also scolded the railway employee responsible for my coach and asked him, why he hadn’t
contacted him straight away when I raised the issue.
 The employee apologised and told me he didn’t think the problem could be solved.
 I was so surprised with the quick response, but more than that I felt so proud of the
government.
 I could never have imagined it happening four-five years ago.
 Cell phones have many purposes but I think one of the most important is that it is a tool for
an ordinary citizen to directly connect with their elected representatives.
 It has made the government officials much more accountable and responsive.
65
Part 3 - Follow Up Questions
1 What do you usually do with a cellphone?

I use my cellphone for many purposes besides calling and chatting with my friends. I use it for playing
games like chess and Ludo, listening to music, watching videos, and for navigation. Above all, I use it
for photography.
2 What are the differences between young people and old people when using a cellphone?
Old people mainly use mobile phones for calling and to some extent for chatting. However, young
people treat mobile phones like a mini computer. For most youngsters, their whole life nowadays
revolves around the mobile phone. They use it for entertainment, for studies, for clicking photos, for
shopping, for banking and so much more. The list is really endless.
3 Which one is more important, using a cellphone to make phone calls or to read messages?
I think it really depends upon the person. Some people like chatting, for them it’s about sending and
receiving messages, while for others it is about calling.
4 Do you think there should be a law to stop people from making phone calls in public?
I think there might be emergency situations, where it might be necessary to make calls. So I don’t
support a ban on calling in public places but I do think that we should encourage people to avoid
calling as it can be really disturbing. I consider audio calls as a sort of noise pollution and it has a
serious impact on our focus and concentration.
33. Describe an important thing you learned, not at

school or college.
- When did you learn it?
- How did you learn it
- Why did you think it was important to learn it
- How you felt when you learnt it
 I think life is full of learning.

 We start learning the day we are born and we don’t stop till the day we die.
 I have learnt many things in my life and one of the most important things I learnt recently was
cooking.
 Normally, my mother cooks in my house, and when she is sick or she doesn’t feel like cooking
we order out.
 However, now I am planning to go abroad for my higher education.
 So, I felt that it is necessary for me to learn cooking to survive abroad.
 I did not need to be an expert but I needed to be good enough to satisfy my taste.
 My mother is an amazing cook, so of course, I thought of learning it from her.
 Unfortunately, my mother is not as good a teacher.
 She used to get really mad when I made even small mistakes.
 So, I decided to employ the use of technology to learn it or in other words, cooking channels
on YouTube.
66
 I found a really good channel, which showed how to cook simple vegetarian dishes like dal
and mixed vegetables.
 Then, I learnt how to make rotis.
 Now I can make perfectly circular rotis like my mother.
 After learning the basic Indian recipes, I moved on to baking, because I love eating cakes.
 Again, I found a really amazing channel called - cooking with sugar.
 Baking was tough at first, I think even small mistakes can be costly in baking.
 The damage is irreversible too.
 I remember once I forgot to add flour to my cake batter and kept on wondering how I ended
up making a chocolate bar instead of a cake.
 However, now, I have started making really tasty cakes.
 My dark chocolate cake is a special request for family events.
 All my life, I dreaded cooking. Now that I have learnt it, I rather enjoy it.
 It is not a chore anymore, but rather something I look forward to.
 Of course, I don’t have to cook every day.
 
1. What do children learn from their parents?

Parents are children’s first teachers. They learn so many things from their parents. They learn even
the basic things like how to talk, how to eat, how to dress, and how to behave from their parents. In
fact, everything parents do in front of their children teaches them something.
2. Are some children well-behaved because of their parents?

Yes, I think parents are responsible for their children’s behaviour to a large extent. However, they are
not the only ones responsible for their children’s behaviour, it also depends upon other factors like
media and their friends and teachers.
3. Is it necessary for adults to learn new things?

Yes, I think life would be boring if people stopped learning. Moreover, today life is changing so fast,
that it is paramount to learn new things to survive. My mother is a teacher. During covid times, when
classroom education was not possible, she had to learn and teach through Zoom. If she didn’t, she
would have lost her job.
4. What are the options for learning new things?

Well, there are traditional methods of learning new things like joining evening classes or asking a
friend or relative to guide us or reading do it yourself books. Then, there are the modern methods
like watching YouTube channels or searching on google. There has never been a better time to learn
something new than today.
67
34. Describe something that surprised you and

made you happy
You should say:
- What it was
- Who did this
- How you found out about it and what you did
- And explain why it surprised you and made you happy
 I have been surprised many times but one incident that I remember very vividly is my 16th
birthday.
 My best friend Anchal planned a birthday party for me.
 I had no idea about it, and it was such a wonderful surprise.
 My 16th birthday was just a few weeks before the exams.
 I knew everyone would be busy preparing for the exams, so I decided not to have a party
with my friends that year.
 We were in 10th standard, and it was very important to score good grades that year.
 Usually, every year I start planning for my birthday weeks in advance. I am always excited
about my big day.
 I was so sad that I will not have a birthday party that year.
 I was jealous of my friends who either had their birthdays after the exams or much before.
 On my birthday, my best friend Anchal called me to her house in the evening to help her
with some math problems.
 I didn’t find it odd as we do usually study together at each other’s house.
 When I reached there, I got the surprise of my life.
 As soon I entered her house, I heard Happy Birthday wishes from all corners of her drawing
room.
 All my friends were there, my parents and my sister were there.
 There were decorations and balloons everywhere, and there was a big cake on the table.
 I couldn’t believe my eyes. How did she do it, when did she get the time and why are all
my friends here and not home studying?
 I had so many questions for her. She told me that knew how much this day meant to me.
 So, she conspired with my friends to throw me a little surprise party that day.
 They decided to keep it at her house, so I won’t figure it out.
 They even studied a bit extra every day that week so they could attend my birthday.
 She even involved my parents. I was surprised that they knew, and they didn’t let me know
what was going on.
 I was so happy that I got a party and celebrated my 16th birthday with all my loved ones.
 I couldn’t thank Anchal enough for making my day so special.
68
1. How do people express happiness in your culture?

People express happiness in different ways in my culture. I think in all cultures, a smile is the most
common way to express happiness. In my culture, people express it by celebrating their happiness
with their loved ones by having a party, cooking something special, buying gifts, etc.
2. Do you think happiness has any effect on people? How?

Happiness is contagious. It spreads and uplifts the moods of everyone around you. It gives meaning
and purpose to life. It also has many health benefits like better sleep, lower risk of cardiovascular
diseases, stronger immune system, etc.
3. How can people be happy?

People can be happy by focusing on good things and being satisfied with what they have in life.
Also, people should remind themselves that life can be tough at times but if they stay positive, they
can conquer the hurdles and get past the difficult situations.
Another way to be happy is to be with people who bring you joy and stay away from negative people
who try to bring you down.
4. Is it good for people to be unhappy? Why?

No, it’s not good to be unhappy. Good mental health is very important for our wellbeing
and being unhappy can lead to depression and anxiety. Sometimes it’s hard to force the mind to stay
positive and in such cases, meditation and deep breathing can help us stabilize our mind and chase
the blues away.
35. Describe a photo that you took and are proud of

- When did you take this photo?
- Where you took it?
- What is the photo about?
- Why you feel proud of the photo?
 I am not very interested in photography.

 In fact, the photos I take normally don’t come out that well.
 However, recently, I visited Sikkim with my family and there I took a photograph of my mother
and father sitting on a bench with the beautiful, picturesque mountains in the background.
 The picture came out really well.
 It was a not pre-planned photo, and I didn't use any special camera.
 It was just my phone camera.
 We had gone to a monastery in Sikkim, which is around 2 hours drive from Gangtok.
 The view of the monastery with mountains in the background was just breathtaking.
 I felt I had to capture it.
 But I feel, a picture without any people is boring and my parents hadn’t had a picture taken
with just them in recent times.
 I mean there are pictures of them, but it is with us or other family members.
 The only pictures of my parents alone are their wedding photos, and they are very old.
 So, I wanted to click a photograph that would capture their beautiful relationship.
69
 I didn’t know, how a photograph could do that, but the picture shows it.
 It’s very hard to describe it in words but whoever sees the photograph talks about the
beautiful relationship between my father and mother afterwards.
 So, the picture depicts it somehow.
 I am so proud that I clicked the picture.
 Recently, my parents got it photo framed and we have hung the photo on a wall in our living
room.
1. Why do some people like to use photographs to document important things?

I think photographs are one of the best ways to keep past memories alive. Whenever we look at
photographs, we cannot help but remember the events and people that happened during that time.
Also, photographs are one of the best ways to share our experiences with others. It is rightly said, a
picture is worth a thousand words.
2. What can one learn from photographs taken throughout history?

The main thing people can learn from photos is the successes and failures of our ancestors. On the
one hand, photographs are a living proof of human ingenuity and progress and on the other hand,
they also show how and where we failed. For example, photos of rich forests in the past at places
occupied by modern high-rise buildings show our architectural achievement but at the same time
show how we sacrificed our environment to achieve the same.
3. Are photographs the best way to remember something?

I used to believe that too. However, I recently read an article on how smells are much more effective
in making us remember. In fact, that is why storytellers of the past use incense sticks and spice bowls
when telling stories.
4. Which is better, taking photos or keeping a diary?

Both have their own importance but people hardly keep a diary these days. Clicking photos is more
convenient as it is instant and one can easily scroll through them, whereas maintain a diary requires
much more effort.
36. Describe a problem you had while shopping

online or in a store
- When it happened
- What you bought
- What problem you had
- And explain how you felt about the experience
 I normally don’t buy clothes or shoes online because of size issues.
 Different companies have different sizes and sometimes the large size of one company is a
small size for another company.
 However, recently my friend ordered Nike shoes from Amazon, and they were nearly half the
price of the Nike retail store.
 So, I also decided to buy shoes online.
 2 months ago, I placed an order for Adidas shoes from Flipkart, another famous retail store.
70
 Actually, the same shoes were available on Amazon as well but were about Rs 200 costlier, so
I decided to go for Flipkart.
 I was so excited about the shoes.
 In fact, I was boasting about the great deal I found on the Internet to my friends.
 However, when I opened the box, I was quite disappointed.
 My shoes were duplicates.
 The brand name written on the shoes was not Adidas but Adidaas, with a double a.
 I know a big brand could never make such a big mistake.
 So, I called the customer care number of Flipkart and told them about the problem.
 They told me to take a photograph and send it.
 Immediately, they offered me two choices.
 Either they could refund the money or I could buy something else for the same price.
 At the same time, they removed the seller from their platform.
 They told me to courier the shoes back to the seller.
 When I emailed them the courier slip, they refunded me the whole amount along with the
courier charges I entailed.
 I was quite happy with their handling of my complaint.
 However, I also felt it was a waste of time.
 The whole process took about two weeks.
 I could have directly gone to a store and picked up the shoes and the whole thing wouldn’t
have taken me more than an hour.
PART 3 - Online Shopping
1. What kind of customer service do you think is good?

I think that creating a good customer experience depends on multiple factors. The companies should
ensure that the staff providing the service should be prompt, attentive, and most importantly be very
patient and polite with the client.
2 What are the differences between shopping online and in-store?

There are numerous differences between online shopping versus shopping from brick and mortar
stores. First of all, online shopping is more convenient as it saves a lot of time and energy. Also, it can
be done 24X7, whereas, the stores are generally open for 10-12 hours only. The only benefit of retail
stores is that an individual can make a better judgement of the look and feel of the product which is
not possible online.
3 What problems do customers often have while shopping?

Generally, the customers are not able to easily find products/goods that match their needs or taste.
For example, sometimes if a person likes a particular piece of clothing, he/she might not be able to
find the right size for it. Other than that sometimes they might have to deal with rude and impolite
staff.
4 What do you think customers should do when there are problems with products bought online?
The customers should immediately lodge a complaint with the website from which they have bought
the product. Also, they should go through the refund and return policy for the product and then take
the necessary action.
71
37. Describe a time when you saw a lot of plastic

waste (e.g. in a park, on the beach, etc.)
You should say:
- Where and when you saw the plastic waste
- Why there was a lot of plastic waste
- What you did do after you saw it
- And explain what your thoughts were about this
 Recently, I visited Leh, a hill station in Ladakh.

 It became a really popular tourist destination after the movie 3 idiots was released because
some of the movie scenes were shot there.
 During these summer vacations, my parents and I went there.
 There, while travelling in Leh we saw huge mountains of plastic waste near a popular lake.
 At first, I thought the problem is the lack of dustbins.
 However, it was just the tip of the problem.
 Someone told us that each day more than 30,000 plastic bottles are dumped in Leh.
 And there has been a sudden rise due to the increase in tourism.
 There are no plastic recycling plants nearby and so there is no place to dump all the plastic.
 The only solution is for the government to transport it back to big cities, with recycling
facilities, or the government to build a recycling plant there.
 However, both options are quite costly.
 The government has started asking tourists to take the plastic bottles back with them instead
of throwing them there.
 I think the visit to Leh opened my eyes to the dark side of tourism.
 Sometimes, these small places do not have the capacity to accommodate so many tourists.
 I never thought about it from this perspective before.
 Although I know, personally I don’t think I can make a big difference, I have stopped drinking
from mineral water bottles if cleaner alternatives are available.
Part 3 – Plastic Waste
1 Do you think we should use plastic products?

No, I don’t think that usage of plastic products should be encouraged. Every day in the newspaper
we read about how plastics are destroying our planet, and there is not much we can do about it
except prohibit their usage. Most of the plastic waste cannot be recycled and ends up in landfills or
is dumped in the sea
2 How can we reduce our use of plastic?

There are many simple everyday things that we can do to reduce our plastic consumption. For
example, people can always carry a steel water bottle with them so that they don’t have to buy a
plastic one. Another thing that people can do is to use jute or any other cloth bags for carrying goods
from grocery stores.
3 What kinds of plastic waste are often seen in your country?

The most common plastic waste in my country would definitely be the plastic bags that people use
for grocery shopping. The plastic water or soft drink bottles take the second spot.
72
4 Why do people like to use plastic products?

I think there are two main reasons behind it. One is that plastic is more convenient as it doesn’t get
damaged easily and keeps the goods safe and dry. Secondly, plastic is cheaper as compared to metal
or other alternatives.
38. Describe a time when you needed to search for

information
You should say:
- What information you needed to search for
- When you searched for it
- Where you searched for it
- And explain why you needed to search for it
 Internet has made our lives really easy especially when it comes to searching for information.
 We can find out about anything with a click of a button.
 In 10th standard, my history teacher gave me a project to write about the life of a freedom
fighter.
 One of the instructions for the project was that I was forbidden to use the internet.
 I had no clue what I could do to search for it.
 It made me realise how dependent I had become on the internet.
 It was like I couldn’t survive without it.
 Then, I asked my parents for advice.
 They told me that I could visit the local library.
 There I might find some past newspapers and articles, which could help me.
 The library told me that they were also going digital and most of the articles and the past
newspapers had been uploaded on their website.
 Finally, I thought about the museum dedicated to Bhagat Singh, which is about half an hour's
drive from my hometown.
 In the museum, I came to know a lot about his life.
 For example ‘he had a slogan Inquilab Zindabad’ which means long live revolution.
 I had always thought the revolution meant freedom of India.
 However, it actually meant freedom from the tyranny of the rich and powerful.
 Bhagat Singh’s ideas were too advanced for his age.
 I also learnt that although he was hanged for violence, he had stopped believing in violence
long before he was even caught. Besides learning about Bhagat Singh’s life, I gained an
appreciation for the internet and at the same time, I learned how we are becoming
overdependent upon it.
Part 3 Follow Ups – Information
1 How can people search for information now?

I believe that smartphones are the best option for looking up information anywhere and at any time.
They just have to type a few words in google search engine and within milliseconds they can get
hundreds of documents and videos about the information they are looking for.
73
2 What information can people get from television?

Although television is mainly considered an entertainment unit or sometimes also called an idiot box,
I believe that if people watch the right channels they can learn a lot about the world and increase
their general knowledge by watching television.
3 Do you think libraries are still important in the digital age?

Yes, I feel that libraries still have an important role to play in our society. Apart from access to
thousands of great books at the same time, libraries also provide a studious and focused environment
for reading which is hard to replicate elsewhere.
4 Does the development of the Internet have any impact on some disadvantaged people?
Yes, technologies such as Internet have definitely helped the disadvantaged, especially those from
weaker economic backgrounds. It has allowed them to learn new things for free and also created
opportunities for them to earn more money by being able to reach more customers.
For example, a small time taxi driver who could get only a few customers from a particular location/
stand only can now ferry more customers in a day, and that too from any location because of mobility
apps like uber.
39. Describe a person you know who is from a

different culture
You should say:
- Who he/she is
- Where he/she is from
- How you knew him/her
- And explain how you feel about him/her
 I don’t know many people from other cultures because I have not travelled to other countries
much.
 However, today I am going to talk about a Japanese person, whom I met this past summer.
 My cousin did his higher education in Japan.
 There he fell in love with a girl Himiko from Japan.
 They got married in India and I met her for the first time at the wedding ceremony.
 She was wearing the traditional Indian wedding saree and she looked really pretty in it.
 She seemed very keen to learn and follow Indian rituals and traditions.
 She wore all the traditional dresses, she followed all the customs, and she wasn’t just following
them, she also asked why they were done. Even I learnt the reasons for some of the traditions
because of her.
 I was really impressed with her, and I wanted to know more about Japanese culture.
 However, as the marriage ceremony was very hectic, we couldn’t communicate much.
 However, after the marriage, they came and stayed with us for 1 day.
 They were visiting Golden Temple and our house lies on the way.
 The first thing I learnt was that the Japanese are very punctual.
 This was evident every place we went.
 For example, we decided to go for dinner at night and we kept a time of 7 PM so that at least
74
people would be ready by 7:30, to my surprise, she was ready 5 minutes before 7.
 The second thing I learnt was about cleanliness.
 She carried two three pairs of shoes and chappals even though she was visiting us for just one
day.
 She took off her shoes outside the house, inside the house she wore different shoes, and then
she had another pair of chappals for the bathroom.
 She told me it is the norm in Japan for hygiene reasons.
 It was a wonderful experience meeting her and learning about Japanese culture.
 I wish I get to visit Japan one day and experience its rich cult.
Part 3 Follow Ups – Person from different culture
1 Where and how can we get to know people of different cultures better?
I think social platforms such as Facebook, Reddit, and Instagram are great ways to interact/connect
with people from different cultures. Here people from different cultures can discuss like-minded
ideas and interests. However, the traditional way to learn about a different culture would be to read
books related to it, watch movies, or may be travel to that place.
2 What are the advantages and disadvantages of cultural diversity?

If I talk about advantages, cultural diversity makes our world more interesting. If there was only one
culture in the world, it would have been a really boring place. Cultural diversity acts as a change that
makes people curious about each other. Also, people get to learn a lot from each other’s cultures.
However, from a disadvantage point of view, cultural diversity can sometimes create a divide
amongst people. People of one culture might believe themselves to be superior as compared to
others and it can lead to hate and difference among them.
3 How can traditional culture and other cultures coexist?

For different cultures to co-exist together, especially traditional and modern, it requires a lot of effort
from the members of the society. Followers of both cultures should show respect and understanding
for each other and should not indulge in any activities that could hurt each other’s sentiments. Also,
I feel that the generation gap plays a huge role in traditional and modern culture, and narrowing it
down can help both cultures to co-exist peacefully.
4 Which Indian traditions are disappearing?

I am not a person who is much into following traditions and cultures. However, I also don’t think that
Indian traditions are disappearing, in fact, I feel that with the help of Internet and social media,
youngsters in India are becoming more aware of their customs and traditions. My family members,
relatives, and neighbours still follow the same old traditions which they used to 10-20 years ago.
75
40. Describe a time you made a decision to wait for

something
You should say:
- When it happened
- What you waited for
- Why you made the decision
- And explain how you felt while waiting
 I am a very impatient person, and it is very difficult for me to wait for things.
 But recently I waited to buy a mobile phone and it was one the longest times I had to wait for
something.
 My phone broke down 3 months ago and I had to buy a new phone.
 This time I was going to buy an iPhone.
 However, when I was searching online, I came to know that a newer version of the iPhone was
coming out in one month.
 I asked my parents, and my parents told me if I could live for one month without a phone, they
would buy me the latest version.
 I thought it would be easy, but I was so wrong.
 The one month seemed like a year.
 I couldn’t talk to my friends or chat with them.
 They used to call my parents if they needed to tell me something important but as my parents
needed their phones, I couldn’t talk for long.
 For the first two weeks I was very irritated and one or two times, I nearly broke down and told
my parents to just buy me the previous model.
 However, then I adapted.
 Because there was no phone, I had a lot of free time.
 I spent this time playing outdoor games with the neighbour’s children.
 I actually started enjoying it and I started missing my phone less and less day by day.
 If I had to talk to my friends, I just visited them.
 I also came to the realisation that I had become addicted to my phone.
 This wait was one of the best things to happen to me in my life.
 My parents also told me that I had started spending more time with them.
 I thought they might go back on their word but as soon as the new model was released, they
bought me the phone.
 Now I still use my phone but not as much.
 I am not on social media all the time.
 I do check it but occasionally.
76
Part 3 – Decision to wait
1 What do people in your country often do while waiting?

Nowadays most people spend time scrolling through social media applications on their phones while
they are waiting for something. People like to be aware of the new trends and they also find such
applications to be entertaining.
2 Why do some people like a slow-paced life?

I think some people just like to take things slow because they have a more relaxed and focused
approach towards life. Unlike others they don’t want to be in a rat race of earning more and more
money, instead, they prefer to live in the moment and discover life as it is.
3 Is being patient good for people? Why?

Yes, patience is a virtue that every person should have these days. Lot many times we see people
losing patience on simple matters and becoming angry which does not bring good for anyone. Being
patient helps people stay calm in difficult situations and stay in control of their emotions, whereas
impatient ones can easily lose emotional control and get into arguments
4 Are people less patient now than people in the past? Why?
Today’s generation is definitely less patient as compared to people in the old times. With
technological advancements, they have become accustomed to getting things instantly. For
example, people can now book flight tickets, order food, or transfer money with just the click of a
button. So, when they have to wait for something that would take more time than usual, it makes
them really impatient.
41. Describe a time when you received money as a

gift.
- When did you receive it?
- What did you do with it?
- How did you feel about it?
 It always feels nice to give and receive gifts.

 However, I normally, don’t like to receive money as a gift because my mother takes it from
me and I never get to see that money again.
 Today, I am going to talk about a time, when I actually got to spend the money I got as a gift.
 In Indian culture, when we visit an elder relatives house for the first time, they give us money
as a present.
 It’s a tradition.
 Recently, I visited my father’s cousin for the first time.
 He used to live in the US, but he shifted back to India after his retirement last month.
 He was very excited to see me and we had a wonderful time at this house.
 When we were leaving, he handed me a small envelope with money.
 I expected it to be a small amount but it was actually 100 dollars.
77
 So, I was completely shocked.
 At the same time, I was sad too because I knew I would never get to spend it
 My mother told me to return it, but my uncle refused to take it back.
 I knew my mother was going to take it from me so before she could, I handed it to my grandma
for safekeeping.
 This is how I outwitted my mother, if I had given it to my mother, she would have told me that
she spent it buying food for me and paying my electricity bills.
 Then after a few days, my phone broke and I had to buy a new one.
 So, I used the money to buy myself a new Samsung phone.
 The first thing I did was to take a photograph of the phone and send it to my uncle along with
a thank you note.
OR
● Money as a gift is extremely popular in my country.

● In fact, it can be called a tradition as well.
● People usually gift money to each other during weddings, birthdays etc
● Today, I would like to talk about one such occasion (out of so many others), when I received
money from someone instead of an actual gift item.
● The occasion was my 18th birthday.
● And as per Indian laws I became an adult on this day
● My parents gifted me a motorbike on my birthday as I was now eligible to drive a motor
vehicle
● When my friends came to know about this, all of them wanted a party from me.
● Unfortunately I did not have much savings at that time, to give a party to my friends.
● But luckily my grandparents were visiting us during that time.
● They had come to spend their winters with us.
● They always teach me a lot of good moral values and they love me a lot as well.
● Since my grandparents are tool old, they could not go to the market to buy a gift for me.
● Moreover they were not sure about what gift they should buy for me, which will make me
happy.
● So they decided it was best to give me money as a gift, so that I can use it for buying
anything I like.
● Initially I refused to accept the money but then my parents said I should not say no to the
elders as it would be a disrespect to them.
● I then thanked my grandparents and they gave me their blessings as well.
● I also told them that I had everything that I need but my friends were asking for a party so I
will use that money for the purpose of celebrating my birthday.
● My grandparents were happy that I was using the money to spend a good time and share
happiness with my friends and not spending it alone on myself.
● They wished me good luck for the party.
● I had a great outdoor party with my friends.
● So, this was one of the occasions when I received money as a gift and I used it for
celebrating with my friends.
78

1. In your country, do parents give children money for doing housework?
In my country, India, it is not very common for parents to give money to their children for
housework. There maybe very few parents who do this and it is mostly considered as the children’s
responsibility to help with the housework. In terms of money, children get pocket money for their
daily/weekly/monthly expenses.
2. Is it important for children to have a right attitude towards money?

Yes, it is very important for children to have the right attitude towards money. Children should
learn the importance of money and saving it/not wasting it starting at an early age, so that this
habit continues in the future when they start working and earning.
3. What do you think of the saying; love of money is the root of all evil?
I think this saying has a lot of truth in it. Love or obsession for money is not only the root cause of
unhappiness, but also brings many other problems in a person’s life, like insecurity, not being able
to trust others, unhappy family life, selfishness, etc.
4. Is it important to teach children how to manage their pocket money? Or Is it good and
necessary to teach children to save money?
Yes, it is very important to teach children to manage their pocket money so that in their adult life
they understand the value/importance of money, not waste it and are better at managing their
finances in the future.
5. What kind of occasions require people to send money as gifts?

Occasions like birthdays, weddings, congratulating someone on the birth of a baby, and some other
such occasions require people to send money as gifts, especially in the Indian culture.
6 Why do people rarely use cash now?

7 When do children begin to comprehend the value of money?
8 Should parents reward children with money?
79
42. Talk about a TV show you like to watch

- What is the program about
- When do you watch it
- Who do you watch it with
- Why do you like to watch it
 In my childhood, I used to watch a lot of TV shows.

 However, nowadays because I am busy with studies, I rarely find time to watch TV.
 Despite the lack of time, there is one show, I ardently follow.
 The name of the show is ‘Floor is Lava’.
 It is an American game show.
 It is also available on Netflix and that’s where I watch it.
 I normally watch it with my family when we have dinner.
 My parents also watch it, but I don’t think they are as crazy about it as I am.
 Different teams of 3 members compete with each other to cross obstacles without falling
on the floor as the floor is imaginary lava.
 If people fall, they get out.
 The team that gets through all the obstacles with the most members and the shortest
amount of time wins.
 The game seems so fun.
 It is a test of both physical stamina and mental fortitude.
 The obstacles are physically challenging but there are mental tricks to solving them as well.
 The obstacles are different every week so that teams have to think on the spot.
 There are multi paths of getting across.
 I really wish I could participate in the completion as well.
 However, only American citizens can apply to be contestants for now.
 It is still fun to imagine what I would have done if I was a participant.
 There have been two seasons till now and the third one is coming out soon.
 I have been eagerly waiting for it and I hope soon there is an international version where
people from all over the world could participate.
OR
● I have seen a lot of comedies and sitcoms in my life.

● Here I would like to talk about an interesting TV program which is Comedy Circus
● It comes on Sony Channel every Saturday and Sunday at 9 pm
● I watch it with my family.
● We all enjoy this program over dinner.
● Last Sunday also I watched this program.
● The performance by Kapil and Bharti was awesome.
● We all laughed a lot that time.
● Kapil is very good as a stand-up comedian but Bharti can also do slapstick comedy very well.
● Last time she became a cat and really looked like a cute little fat cat.
● Bharti has really cashed her obesity.
● She is an excellent dancer too.
80
● Archna Puran Singh and Sohail Khan are the judges in this program.
● Sudesh Lehri and Krushna got the highest points last Sunday
● Krushna is Govinda’s nephew.
● But because of this program, he has made a name for himself.
● On Saturdays and Sundays, my family and I finish all our household tasks and sit together at
the dining table and watch this program
● The best thing is that the comedy is clean and has no vulgarity in it.
● Laughter is needed by all of us these days.
● It helps to remain tension free.
● It is a good stressbuster.
● Nowadays even doctors recommend this as a therapy for depression.
● There is a laughter club in my hometown in which many elderly people are members, and
they assemble in a park and laugh out loud.
● This program fulfills my quota of laughter.
● All channels have sitcoms, but I just love this program.
1. What do Indian people like to watch?

India is a diverse country, and it is very hard to generalise what people like to watch. People
like to watch news, soaps, dramas, comedy shows, reality shows, and sports. It really depends
upon the person. I personally like to watch news, sport shows, and competitions.
2. Do you like watching foreign countries’ TV shows?

Yes, I watch a lot of foreign countries' TV shows especially Hollywood as I find they are much
more entertaining. I feel their budgets are better and so the visuals and special effects are
really good. Moreover, I think there is a lot of diversity available in Hollywood TV shows.
3. Do you think watching TV shows can be educational for children?

It really depends upon the type of TV show. Some TV channels like Discovery and National
Geography have shows that can be really educational for children. Others shows like dramas
and soaps are mainly a sort of entertainment but they can also educate children in some ways.
For example, watching them can improve children’s linguistic skills and they can learn about
other countries’ cultures and traditions.
4 What's the benefit of letting kids watch animal videos than visiting zoo?
The only benefit I can think of is that the animal videos would contain audio description about
the animals, their habitat, eating habitats and other related information whereas in the zoo
the children can only see the animals but not learn much about them.
5 Do teachers play videos in class in your country?
81
43. Describe a person who you believe dresses well

 Who this person is
 What kind of dresses he/she wears
 How do you know him/her
OR
Describe a person who likes to dress fashionably/well

You should say:
Who he/she is
What job he/she does
What kind of clothes he/she wears
And explain why he/she likes fashion
 I grew up in a small town and most of my friends have a dressing sense similar to mine.
 When I was in high school, we had a new neighbor Avinash.
 The first thing I noticed about him the day that he moved was his clothes.
 He was wearing a graphic T-shirt and red shorts.
 Personally, I have always stuck with browns, blues, or greys and that’s why his clothes stood
out to me.
 He made a great first impression on me because of how well dressed he was.
 He was my age, and we became very good friends.
 I found out that his whole family relocated to my town from Delhi as his dad got transferred
here.
 Delhi is a big metropolitan city, and I figured he had a lot of options to buy trendy clothes
there.
 He was always put together and his clothes were very stylish and fashionable.
 He was also very appropriately dressed, and he took the time to pick up his outfit.
 When we were playing outside, he would wear athletic clothes with cool sneakers.
 At parties, he would wear semi-formal clothes like dark-colored jeans with polo shirts.
 The best thing was that not all of his clothes were branded. Some were just simple clothes
that he mixed and matched to create the perfect outfit.
 He would make new outfits from some of his parents’ old clothes.
 I was in awe of his creativity.
 Not only that, he had a nice physique and carried himself well.
 That was one of the reasons he always looked so sharp and dapper.
 Somedays he would just wear jeans and a plain white t-shirt, but he made them look nice.
 His clothes were always nicely ironed.
 I asked him where he was shopping after moving to my town because the options were
limited.
 He told me that he shopped online and showed me where to find clothes online.
 He guided me and helped me pick up some nice outfits.
 Unfortunately, his family moved to another city after a few years.
 I miss having him around, and I have stayed in touch with him through email and social
82
media.
 He is my inspiration, and it would not be wrong to say he has a big role in how I dress now.

Part 3 Follow Ups
1 Do you think online shopping will replace in-store shopping in the future? Why?
No I don’t think that online shopping can completely replace the brick and mortar stores. It is
impossible to achieve the in-store real shopping experience with virtual shopping.
2 Why is fashion very important to some people?

Fashion is important to many people because it helps them to create an identity for themselves.
The way they dress or look signals an impressions to other about their personality and outlooks
towards life. Other than that for some people it is important because of their professions. For
example, actors and actresses always wear fashionable clothes.
3 Are older people as fashionable as young people? Why?

I don’t think older people focus much on fashion and they believe in wearing simple clothes with
sober colors. At their stage of life other things such as health, family relationships etc become more
important.
4 Are women more fashionable than men? Why?

Definietly yes, that is why most of the shopping malls have women’s clothes, cosmetics and
accessories available on the ground floor whereas men and kids shops are mostly located on the
first floor. While men don’t have much clothing options except formal and casual, women tend to
have a particular dress or cloth style for each and every occasion.

44. Describe a person who likes to grow plants
Who the person is
How do you know the person
What types of plants does he/she grow
Why does he/she enjoy growing plants
 Gardening is a very popular hobby in India.

 I know many people who like to do gardening.
 However, today I am going to talk about my grandfather because I learnt about growing
plants from him
 My grandfather started this hobby after retirement.
 He retired from the agricultural department of Punjab university as a lecturer, so he had
pretty good knowledge about plants.
 However, he never got much time, before retirement.
 His house has a big backyard, so there is a lot of open space to grow plants.
 He started with flowers like roses and jasmine.
 Then he planted some fruit trees like mango, papaya, and bananas.
 Now, he has a kitchen garden, and he grows all his vegetables by himself.
 There are a lot of pesticides and chemicals being used in farming nowadays.
83
 So, he doesn’t like to buy vegetables from the market.
 Although organically grown vegetables are also available in the market nowadays, their
prices are too high currently.
 I also feel that the vegetables grown by him have a different taste.
 Maybe it is because instead of using chemicals, he uses kitchen waste as compost.
 During corona time, I had a lot of free time and so I learnt a bit of gardening from my
grandpa.
 That’s when I came to know about his love for gardening and how much knowledge he
had.
 I think he could write books about it.

1. What kind of plants do people like to grow in their homes?

In India, people like to grow many different types of plants like medicinal herbs, flowers, fruits,
and so on. We also have many plants in our home, but I don’t know most of their names. The
few that I know are Neem, Tulsi, Rose, Hibiscus, etc.
2. Do people in India like to gift plants?

Gifting plants wasn’t very common a few years ago, but it is becoming popular. Earlier, people
used to mainly gift sweets, but now as many people are facing problems like obesity and
diabetes, people have started looking for different gifts and plants are one of them. Recently,
we attended my uncle’s housewarming party, and many people gifted them plants.
3 Are there many people growing their own vegetables now?

India is an agricultural economy, so , yes many people in India grow their own vegetables.
Also the trend of eating organic food has encouraged people to grow their own vegetables.
4 Do you think it's good to let kids learn how to plant?

Yes it is important to teach kids about plantation because through it they will be able to better
understand and realise the importance of plants and trees on our planet. They will also learn
how important the plants are for our future.
3 What do you think of the job of a farmer?

I believe that farmers have the most important job in our world. If farmers will not grow any
crops then we will not have any food on our table and there would be hunger and starvation
everywhere.
4 What are the differences between traditional and modern agriculture?

Traditional agriculture used a lot of chemicals for increasing the yield and preventing the crops
from diseases but modern agriculture is shifting towards organic and more environment
friendly approach.
84
45. Describe a time you had a disagreement with

someone
Who was the person
Why did you have the disagreement
Was the issue resolved? If yes, how?
How you felt about it?
 Life would be boring if everyone had the same views.

 I think there is nothing wrong with having disagreements, but we should try to resolve
them peacefully.
 Recently, I had a disagreement with one of my friends about our future.
 Actually, my friend is very patriotic and he wants India to grow.
 He believes that our country is not able to progress because of brain drain.
 He is against people moving abroad for greener pastures.
 I, on the other hand, believe that there is lack of opportunities in India and thus, there is
nothing wrong with youth moving to foreign countries.
 Moreover, the quality of life in India cannot be compared with the developed countries
like the US, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada.
 The disagreement happened when we were both discussing our future plans after
completing our 12th standard.
 He told me that he is planning to join the armed forces as he wants to serve the country.
 Then, I told him about my plans of settling abroad after completing my higher education.
 That’s how the disagreement started.
 He gave me all the reasons why I shouldn’t settle abroad, while I gave him all the reasons
why I decided to do so in the first place.
 What surprised me is that normally my friend is really calm, but on this issue, he got really
emotional.
 I could see that he really cares about the country.
 I think we had this whole argument for about 2 hours.
 At last, we both just agreed that we both had different viewpoints and there was nothing
wrong with having different views.
 However, this disagreement did make me realise one thing, I had more responsibility
towards my country.
1. If there is a disagreement, what do you do?

It really depends upon the issue. If it is a minor issue, I don’t let it escalate and just tell the
person, I disagree with and move on. However, if it’s something important, I ask my parents
and friends for advice.
2. How can we stop disagreements from escalating into a fight?

I think we just need to be calm and rational. I think the best way to de-escalate situations is
85
to give them time. We always make wrong decisions when we don’t give issues time. I also
try to involve a neutral person and ask them for advice.
3. Who do you think should teach children to respect- teachers or parents?

I think both parents and teachers have the responsibility of teaching children. However, I think
such things are not taught but rather learnt by observing others. Children pick up a lot of
things by watching their parents and so it is absolutely important that parents behave
appropriately in front of them.
4. What do you do when you have a disagreement with your parents?

Well, in this case, I am normally forced to accept their viewpoint. I know my parents have my
best interests at heart, so I don’t mind it. However, sometimes when I feel strongly about
something I do try to resist. Sometimes, they do let me prevail.
5. What disagreements do parents and children usually have?

Generally the disagreements between parents and children are related to discipline or about
things that children like to buy. For example, I always argued with my parent about sleeping
till late in the morning on Sundays but they never allowed it.
46. Describe a house/apartment that someone you

know lives in.
whose house/apartment this is

where the house/apartment is
what it looks like inside
and explain what you like or dislike about this person’s house/apartment
or Describe the home of someone you know well and that you often
visit
You should say:
Whose home it is
How often you go there
What it is like
And explain how you feel about the home
 I think that building a dream house is an ambition of almost every person in the world, and
today I would like to talk about the house of one of my uncle’s friend.
 The house is located in one of the posh localities of Chandigarh.
 In fact, it is just one km away from the famous Sukhna lake which is a big tourist attraction in
our city and most of the city residents love to go there for a morning walk.
 My uncle’s friend who has recently returned from Canada, bought this house last year.
 He had worked in Canada for almost 30 years before deciding to settle back in India.
 It took him almost one year to get the house renovated according to his liking.
 Also, I believe that he has spent a fortune on purchasing and rebuilding this property.
86
 It is a two-storey corner house with 3 bedrooms and a living room on each floor, and from the
outside, it looks like a 20th century luxury English Villa.
 There is ample parking space for 4 cars and a huge lawn in the front.
 Apart from it, the house is equipped with all the modern amenities that one could dream of.
 There is an indoor gym, a mini home theater, and a jacuzzi on the rooftop.
 All the rooms have huge glass windows which allow a lot of natural light to come into the
house and there is good ventilation as well.
 My uncle’s friend is a technocrat, so, he has installed a lot of smart electronic devices in his
home and he is able to control most of them through his mobile phone.
 For example, he can turn on the lights, open the curtains and control the conditioning, all with
the click of a button.
 Moreover, my uncle’s friend is also fond of gardening so he has planted many flowers and
exotic plants in his garden. He has also kept a lot of indoor plants in the house.
 I absolutely love each and every corner of the house, there is nothing to dislike about it
because so much attention to detail has been given to all the aspects such as interior design,
décor, and space utilization.
 My uncle’s friend is really proud of his house and loves to give a house tour to all the guests
who come to meet him.
Part 3
1 What are the differences between buildings in the city and in the countryside?
The primary difference is that buildings in cities have limited outdoor spaces and congested rooms
whereas the countryside buildings have more spacious rooms and large outdoor areas. Moreover
the high rise apartments are found in cities only, while the rural areas have maximum 2-3 storey
buildings
2 Do you prefer to live in the city or in the countryside?

I prefer to live in the city because it offers better amenities and also more opportunities and
experiences. City life is more fast, entertaining and with so many possibilities and things to
experience. Comparitively, the life in rural areas is dull and boring where individuals are restricted to
doing certain acitives only.
3 What safety risks are there in residential buildings in cities?

The main risk is of fire, especially in high rise buildings. Fire incident on one floor could spell disaster
for people living on the higher floors and could lead to a great loss of life.
4 Is it expensive to decorate a house or an apartment in the place where you live?

Yes it has become very expensive to decorate one’s house or apartment these days. The cost of
furniture and decorative items has skyrocketed. Also, the indoor plants which play an important role
in decoration have beome expensive these days.
87
47. Describe a place where you go to do outdoor

activities or play a sport
Where is it located?
What activities you can do at this place?
How often do you go there?
Why do you like this place?
Or Describe a popular place of sports that you’ve been to

You should say:
Where it is
When you went there
What you did there
And explain how you felt about this place
 I belong to Chandigarh and there are many places in my city where one can go to play sports
or do some outdoor physical activity.
 Some of them include international cricket stadiums, hockey stadiums and government run
sports complexes, where one can play a variety of sports like lawn tennis, badminton, squash,
swimming, etc.
 Today I would like to talk about the Lake Sports Complex which is located near Sukhna lake,
and I go to play Lawn tennis over there.
 This Complex was earlier known as Lake Club and was set up in 1961 making it one of the
oldest sporting clubs in the city.
 It is said to be spread over 10 acres of land and is one of the most popular Sports Centre of
our city
 It is the single largest centre that houses the facilities of gym, squash, tennis, table tennis,
billiards, archery, swimming, squash and a hi-tech gym having imported machines and access
for using other club facilities
 I got to know about the sports club from one of my school friends whose house was just a
stone's throw distance from it.
 It was because of his reference that I was able to gain membership at the club.
 People can take monthly, quarterly or annual membership and the charges are very nominal.
 I have been practicing there for the last two years and I really love playing there.
 I have made it a habit to go there at least 4-5 times a week. Every member gets an hourly slot
to play at the club and my slot is at 7 in the evening.
 I believe that playing sport is a great way to relieve everyday mental stress plus it helps one
to stay physically fit as well.
 Recently an open fitness centre has been opened at the Lake Sports Complex for local
sportspersons and members of the club
 The fitness centre has the facility of a running track, rope climbing and balancing
apparatuses, and other equipment for the usage of players and members.
88
1. Are outdoor activities better than indoor activities?

I believe that both types of activities have their own advantages and disadvantages and there are a
lot of factors involved behind. For example, in countries with extreme cold or hot climate, it is not
possible for people to do many outdoor activities, so they have to rely on indoor sports for staying
busy and fit. However, in countries with moderate weather people like to enjoy nature and play
outdoors.
2. What outdoor activities do young people like to do? Or Do young people like to do sports?
To be honest young people hardly step out these days as they have a hectic life schedule. But for
those who find it suffocating to stay indoors all the time, love to go for walks or morning runs in the
nearby parks. Off late lot of youngsters have become cycling enthusiasts and I can see a lot of them
cycling especially during the late evenings.
3. Do you think that people who like to do adventurous activities are more likely to succeed?
I don’t think there is any direct link between adventurous sports and success. There are so many
successful people in the world such as scientists, politicians, and businessmen who would have never
done any adventure sports activity. In fact, I hardly know any adventurous sports enthusiast who
became a successful leader.
4 What are the benefits of sports for children?

Sports bring multiple benefits to young children. Not only it improves their physical fitness, it makes
them mentally stronger as well. Young children also learn collaboration, competition and team work
by playing team sports.
5 Is it necessary to build public sports spaces?
6 What do you think of companies donating sports venues for poor children?
I believe it’s a great intitiave to provide sports factilites to the underpriviledged. It can help in
identifying young talent from such areas who might not otherwise get an opportunity to play sports
at a competitive level in their lifetime. It also helps the companies to develop a positive brand image
89
48. Describe a city you would recommend as a nice

place to live (not your hometown)
You should say:
What it is
Where it is
What you know about this place
And explain why you recommend it as a nice place
OrDescribe a place in your country or part of your country

that you would like to recommend to visitors/travelers
You should say:
What it is
Where it is
What people can do there
And explain why you would like to recommend it to visitors/travelers
 India is a diverse country.

 There are many beautiful cities in India.
 Some are beautiful because of their historical buildings, whereas others are beautiful
because of their modern architecture. Some cities are beautiful because they are in the
mountain valleys, whereas some are beautiful, because of the beautiful and warm smiles
of people.
 Here, I would like to talk about Chandigarh, which is also known as ‘The City Beautiful’
 It was designed by the French architect Le Corbusier.
 There are lot of tourists who travel to Chandigarh especially to study/experience its
architecture.
 It is the first planned city of India after independence.
 Chandigarh is the cleanest and the happiest city of India according to two different
surveys held in 2010 and 2015.
 It is also the first smoke-free city in the country.
 It is a union territory and is also the capital of two states - Punjab and Haryana.
 The Rock Garden in Chandigarh is a masterpiece made out of waste material.
 Sukhna lake is the biggest man-made lake. It is a beautiful place for people to enjoy with
their families.
 The sector 17 market is a shopper’s paradise.
 The Rose Garden is Asia’s largest garden
 The city has 50 sectors.
 Each sector has residential and commercial zones
 The roads are designed and oriented in such a way that for most of the time of the day,
they are under shade.
 There are huge parking areas in the commercial zones so that the parking problems
don’t create havoc on the main roads.
 The Parking lanes are as broad as the main roads.
90
 Recently a dedicated cycle track has been laid down across all the main roads by the
local authorities to encourage cycling amongst city residents and make the roads safer
for them.
 Chandigarh is also famous as the only city in the country where people definitely obey
the traffic rules.
 So, you see, while the city was planned in 1952, it is still the most well-planned and
beautiful city of India.
 I feel Chandigarh is the best city to live in India because the quality of life is very good
here.
 Unlike other cities, people do not have to deal with problems such as pollution, traffic
jams, and unhygienic living conditions. Moreover, people in this city also have access to
some of the best healthcare and educational facilities in the country.
 Finally, I believe that the greatness of a city depends on its people, and Chandigarh is
among the cities with the highest literacy levels. The people in Chandigarh are warm,
friendly, and ready to help each other in difficult times
 The city has a lot to offer to people from all walks of life.
1 Where do people like to live in your country?

Majority of India’s population still continues to live in rural areas and small towns. However,
this trend is changing and a lot of young people are now migrating to the big cities for better
employment opportunities and to gain access to advanced infrastructure facilities like
hospitals, universities, shopping malls, etc
2 Why do many people move to the city?

As I mentioned earlier people are moving to cities because they feel that they can get a better
quality of life in the cities as they offer a better living standard. The luxurious lifestyle, modern
amenities, and entertainment options in cities is what woos the youngsters towards them.
3 What are the advantages of living close to the workplace?

The biggest advantage of living close to the workplace is the reduced time and expenditure
on commute. People get to spend more quality time with their family members and avoid the
stress of being struck in long traffic jams. It is also good for the environment as people can
walk or cycle to their workplace instead of commuting by cars.
4 What kinds of places do older people prefer to live in

Most of the old folks prefer to live in societies that are serene and peaceful. They don’t prefer
living in noisy areas as it disturbs their sleep a lot. Also, they prefer to buy a house near a park
or garden so that they can easily go for morning or evening walks.
5 Is it important to take photos while traveling?

6 Can you trust other people's travel journals on the Internet?
7 What factors affect how people feel about traveling?
8 Will you go to a foreign country to travel because of the distinct landscape?
91
49. Describe a time when someone asked for your

opinion
You should say:
Who asked for your opinion
Why he/she wanted to know your opinion
What opinion you gave
And explain how you felt when he/she asked for your opinion
 Well in my country people keep asking for each other’s opinion all the time
 Sometimes people like to give their opinions on matters that even do not relate to them.
 They do it to show care and help others.
 Today, I would like to talk about a time when one of my cousins asked me about my opinion
on apple and android phones.
 My cousin had recently completed his 10th standard and because he had performed well in
his examination, his parents had promised to buy him a new phone.
 Since his parents are extremely wealthy, he had a budget of 70,000 Rs to buy the new
phone.
 My cousin reached out to me because I am considered a gadget freak in my family as I love
to try new phones and devices that come in the market.
 I have also created a lot of review videos of different technology products like
smartwatches, speakers, laptops, and mobiles, etc.
 So, when my cousin started the apple vs android debate, he really wanted to know which
product is a better choice and offers the most value for money.
 I explained to him the hardware and software offerings of both devices in detail and
discussed with him the different use case scenarios where each device can perform better
than the other.
 I told him that Apple devices offered better hardware, camera quality, privacy, and an
ecosystem that allows the users to connect seamlessly with other apple products, however,
the android devices offered more value for money as they provide all the same features at a
much lesser cost.
 Also, android users can do a lot of customizations on their phones as compared to apple
devices where the user experience is more controlled.
 Prior to our discussion, my cousin had a very negative opinion about android phones but
when I showed him some of the advanced features and tricks that an android device could
do, he was really impressed.
 Our discussion went on for almost 4-5 hours and at the end of it, my cousin had a different
opinion about the android devices.
 I felt really happy when he came asking for my opinion because I like to engage in such
discussions.
 I believe that having a healthy conversation like this helps to increase one’s intellect and
general awareness about things.
 Although sometimes people can also get into heated arguments, I think that people should
learn to respect each other’s opinions.
92
1 Why do some people dislike giving their opinions?

There are many reasons why some people do not like to share their perspectives/ideas about
things. Sometimes they lack the confidence or the ability to explain their opinion in detail.
They feel that they will be embarrassed if someone would counter their opinion and might
not be able to defend their opinion. Another reason could be that some people are just shy
in nature and like to keep things close to themselves.
2 Are there any apps designed for collecting opinions about products or services?
I am not aware of any app that only collects opinions about products but almost all the
shopping apps have an option for the users to comment about the products they have
purchased from their website. For example, many people write reviews on Amazon shopping
app and give ratings for the products available there.
3 Why do people like to express their opinions on the Internet nowadays?

The primary reason is that people want their voice to be heard and Internet provides them a
platform where they can express their views about anything and everything while being
anonymous. Internet also provides them a sense of freedom to express their mind without
having to worry about what others will think. Also, one can easily choose to engage or
disengage in a conversation as per their convenience.
4 What are the disadvantages of sharing opinions on the Internet?

I think there are many disadvantages of this trend. Firstly, a lot many times people hurt each
other’s sentiments by writing abusive content online. It is often seen in many chat forums
that people are hurling abuses at each other over minor disagreements. Secondly, I think that
online discussions are mostly not productive and waste people’s useful time.
50. Describe a time when you missed an

appointment
You should say:
When and where it happened;
What the appointment was for;
What happened when you missed it;
And explain how you felt about missing the appointment.
 Well, I usually do remember things as I have got a good memory but sometimes, I tend to forget even
important things if my life is already disturbed.
 I remember an incident when I forgot my appointment with the dentist.
 It was during the time of placements in college, and we all were very nervous and preparing for it.
 There were placement classes going on and many things were on my high priority list.
 It was during this time, I forgot to visit my dentist.
 I had braces on my teeth and the dentist used to change the bands on them every month.
 But during that time, I was really stressed because of the placements and the dentist’s appointment
totally skipped through my mind.
93
 Later, I got a call from my dentist reminding me that I had missed my appointment.
 I felt very bad about missing that appointment.
 I apologized to him for not being able to reach on that day and asked him for another appointment
for the next day.
 Thankfully his schedule for the next day was free and he rescheduled the appointment.
 I also put a reminder on my phone so that I do not forget the appointment again.
 The next day the dentist told me that if I had delayed the appointment further, it would have affected
my treatment.
 I realized that this is what pressure handling is all about
 You need to do things and yet make sure that you are still balanced and not missing out on other
important things.
1. Which events in your country do most people forget?

I don’t think we can generalize this, however, I think it is mostly birthdays and anniversaries of relatives
and friends that people tend to forget.
2. Do you think it is a good idea to use electronic devices for putting reminders?
Yes, I think it’s a very good idea to use electronic devices like cellphones, computers, tablets, etc. to set
reminders for important tasks and events.
3. Do you use them?

Yes, I have set reminders for birthdays; anniversaries, and I set alarms for important tasks. It helps me stay
organized.
4. How can memory help you to learn a new skill?

Memory is essential in learning a new skill. It is only through a good memory that we can remember the
rules or the techniques that have to be followed when learning a particular skill.
5. How can modern technology help you keep good memories?

Modern technology is very helpful in keeping good memories. We can set up reminders for important
events. We can use phones to capture special moments in the form of pictures.
6. Is human memory important nowadays?

Yes, human memory is as important as in the past. It is needed for learning anything new. It’s what is
needed to excel in any field. However, our dependence on technology makes us use our memory much
lesser than in earlier times.
7. Can electronic devices such as smartphones replace human memory?

No, electronic devices cannot ever replace human memory. We have to draw a line and limit our
dependence on gadgets for remembering and computing things for us to avoid the early onset of memory
related problems.
8. How often do you make appointments?

I don’t make appointments very often. Only when I have to go to my dentist or doctor that I get an
appointment.
9. Is it important to be punctual in your country?

I think it is important to be punctual everywhere, and not just in my country. If you are punctual, you save
your time as well the time of the other person.
94
10. Is it easy to make an appointment in India?

Yes, it is easy to make an appointment. However, it is very important that if you make an appointment, you
are punctual also
51. Describe a time you were very busy

You should say:
When it happened
Where you were
What you did
And explain why you were that busy
• Life is very hectic nowadays.

• We are all very busy in our day-to-day activities.
• I remember a time when I was very busy.
• It so happened that two months ago my cousin’s wedding was fixed.
• The groom was an NRI from Canada and the wedding was to take place within a week.
• My uncle and aunt were very tense about all the arrangements.
• I took over the responsibility and offered to help.
• I took a pen and paper and started noting down all the things to do.
• Then I distributed duties to other members of my family and close relatives.
• Everyone was very helpful.
• We took it on as a challenge and I remember how less we slept that whole week.
• We booked the marriage palace and the caterers.
• Then we booked the decorators.
• Shopping for trousseau was on my mother’s shoulders.
• She was very happy because she is a shopaholic and shopping for the wedding was a very enjoyable
activity for her.
• My father was busy getting the invitation cards printed and distributed.
• He made a list of all friends and relatives who were to be invited.
• Many relatives who live away were invited on phone only.
• We arranged the DJ also for the ring ceremony and the Sangeet.
• On the actual day of the wedding, I was very nervous, but everything went well.
• I got a lot of compliments for the perfect arrangements.
• Now whenever there is any event in the family, I happily take over all the planning.
• I have also thought about this event organising as a career option.
• This career option also came to my mind after watching the movie Band Baja Baraat.
Follow Up Questions
1. Do you like the fast pace of modern life?

I do not like the fast pace of modern life much, but I think that there is no escape from it. It has become a
part of our lives.
2. How do you feel when you are really busy?

When I’m busy, I don’t have time to think of anything, and that keeps me stress-free.
3. What is the best way to deal with stress?

The best way to deal with stress is to remain busy. One can have hobbies to keep one busy. If the person is
95
busy, he doesn’t have time to think of depressing things.
4. What kind of lifestyle is suitable for people in modern society?

People in modern society are busy. I think the fast-paced lifestyle suits them the most. Those who are not
living the fast life seem to be living in some other era.
5. What relaxation techniques do you usually use?
I do some yoga and listen to soft music to relax.
52. Describe a childhood friend

- Who this person is
- How you became friends with this person
- What kinds of things you like to do with this person
- Explain why you like him/her?
• I had many friends in my childhood, but here I would like to talk about my best friend,Shyam
because he is still my best friend.
• He is 20 years old and very handsome.
• He has dark brown eyes and a dimple oh his chin.
• We have been friends since school days.
• I met him when I was in the 4th class in the Govt. Primary School where I studied.
• At that time he used to be very chubby and had curly hair.
• Now he is very lean and thin and has short straight hair.
• I remember, I used to be very shy and never used to go to the teachers with my problems.
• But, he never had any hesitation to speak to the teachers or the principal.
• In fact, he used to represent the whole class, if we had any problem and needed to talk to our
school principal.
• He has no glossophobia and every year he used to represent the school for debates and
declamation contests and he won many trophies for the school.
• He always used to be selected as the monitor of the class. In college, now he heads the
students union.
• Whenever he talks on any subject, he speaks so well that people listen to him. He can bind
his audience very well.
• He is himself very disciplined and he always used to encourage other students to be punctual.
• He used to be very good in studies also.
• He was always in the top five students of the class.
• He used to be in the good books of all teachers.
• I really like to spend my time with him.
• I like him because he is an honest and straightforward person.
• He has a very good sense of humour.
• Whenever I was in trouble he used to come and help me.
• He tried to be very understanding and never fought with me.
• In class I was weak at maths and he used to help me.
• I had a very bad handwriting and he helped me to improve my handwriting also.
• He is a very loving, caring and affectionate person.
• So, he became a very intimate friend.
• Now also he lives near my house and we spend our evenings together
• We go for movies together, do shopping together and even play together.
96
1. How do people make new friends?

People make friends in many ways. It depends on age and gender. Children make friends in schools
and colleges. They also make friends in the neighbourhood by playing together. Women make friends
by joining kitty parties and men make friends at work or by joining social clubs.
2. What do you think makes people have a long friendship?

Mutual understanding makes people have a long friendship. If people can tolerate each other’s
shortcomings and be simple and straightforward, then friendships can be for a long time.
3. Does it make things easier in a friendship if you have similar interests?

Yes, definitely. With similar interests friends can spend time together and not get bored. They will
also have similar topics for discussion. In a lasting friendship it is very essential that your likes and
dislikes are similar.
4. How do people make friends now?

Now a days, people make friends through the Internet by joining social networking sites like
Facebook, Twitter, etc.
5. Do you think we meet new people differently now than in the past?
Yes, definitely. Nowadays, we meet new people through the Internet by joining social networking
sites like Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, etc.Earlier, people had lots of free time and they made friends
by meeting new people personally.
6. What do you think, what type of personality do people of the young generation admire?
Young generation admires people who are rich and famous. They admire young politicians like Rahul
Gandhi and Sachin Pilot. They also admire famous sports personalities. They admire reality show
winners.
7. Why is friendship nowadays so volatile?

Friendship is very volatile today because of many reasons. The main reason is that nobody has time
to maintain friendships. People have become workaholics and are in the rat race of earning money.
So, friendship has taken a back seat.
8. Secondly, today friends are not made from the heart. They are made by assessing the benefit
the other person can give you. Such friends are fair-weather friends and disappear into thin air when
you need them the most. Finally, today friends are also made through the net. Sometimes you have
never met the person in real life. There can be fake identities on the net and so such friendships do
not last long.
9. How do people in your country make friends these days?

People in my country make friends at schools, colleges, work places, at parties, when they travel etc.
These days making friends online has be come very popular because of the social networking
websites.
97
53. Describe something that you have shared with

others (or another person).
- What you shared
- When you shared it
- Who you shared it with
- And explain why you shared it or how you felt when you shared it.
 We all need to share many things in our day to day life.

 I also share many things with my siblings and friends.
 Here I would like to talk about something I shared with my friend, Rohan.
 I shared my books and notes with him.
 It so happened that just 15 days before our +2 final exam, Rohan lost his whole school bag.
 All his books and notes were in that bag.
 He kept it in the school ground as he wanted to play cricket for some time.
 After the game, he could not find his bag anywhere.
 He looked everywhere and asked everyone who was there, but no one knew anything about it.
 Someone had obviously stolen it.
 Actually, he used to always stand first and his notes were very precious.
 He was literally on the verge of tears.
 I told him not to panic and offered to share all my notes and books with him till the exams.
 Fortunately, he lives in my neighbourhood.
 So, sharing all these books and notes with him was easy.
 Most of my notes were copied from his notebooks only.
 I realised that sharing things with others gives happiness.
 Sharing my notes with Rohan, strengthened our bonds of friendship.
 It helped me also.
 Because I had to share my books, I studied them within my time.
 Normally, I have a habit of procrastination.
 I always study for my exams at the 11th hour.
 But this time, I studied in time and was well prepared.
 We both passed with flying colours.
1. Do people in your country (or, you) prefer to share public transport or do they (you) prefer to use private
transport?
Well, it depends on the financial status of the people. Those who can afford, like to use their own private
transport.Others, prefer public transport. It also depends on the availability and comfort of public
transport. Ever since, the AC buses have improved their frequency to Chandigarh, I prefer to travel on those
than going by my car.
2. Do many people in your country share their home with other or do they mostly live alone?
Most people live in their own home or live in a rented house. But they don’t share their home with
anybody. Students share apartments, if they study away from their home town.
3. Do you think there are any advantages to sharing your home with other (non-family) people?
If you can get along well with other people, then there are advantages. But if there are conflicts, it can be
98
a bad experience. Advantages are that the expenses can be shared. So, it becomes cheaper.
4. Would you ever share your food with someone else?

Many times, I have shared my tiffin with my friends. Yes, I would readily share my food with others.
54. Describe a story or a novel that was particularly

interesting to you
- What story or the novel was
- Where you came to know about it
- When you read it
- Explain how you felt about it
• There are many stories and novels, which I found interesting.

• Here I am going to talk about Pinjar which is based on a novel written by Amrita Pritam.
• In fact, a movie has been made on this novel.
• Amrita Pritam was a famous Punjabi writer
• My friend lent me this novel, when I was in senior secondary.
• Her mother reads a lot of Punjabi novels by Amrita Pritam and Nanak Singh.
• The novel is based on the plight of women during the partition of India
• It also reveals the religious tensions during that period.
• Pinjar literally means a skeleton
• It is the story of a young Hindu girl Puro, who lives with her family happily
• She is engaged to Ramchand
• One day Puro is kidnapped by Rashid.
• He kidnaps her as a revenge.
• Actually Puro’s uncle had earlier kidnapped Rashid’s aunt.
• Rashid is not basically a bad man.
• After kidnapping Puro, Rashid falls in love with her
• One day Puro somehow escapes and comes back home but her family does not accept her because
they think she is not chaste any more
• She returns to Rashid and gets married to him
• Puro is very unhappy with her life and becomes a Pinjar, Skeleton
• Then partition is announced
• Rashid gives her the option to go to her family in India but she refuses, because she has fallen in love
with Rashid.
• The novel ends on a happy note
• The film is also very good.
The lead roles are played by UrmillaMatondkar and ManojBajpai
99
1. What kinds of stories do children like to learn?

Children like to read fairy tales, stories of kings and queens, stories with animal characters and stories with
pictures.
2. How often do people in your country read novels?

India is a diverse country and people have varied interests. Those who like reading novels read them very
often, in fact every day. Others read novels occasionally. Some do not like to read novels at all.
3. What kinds of novels old people like to read?

Old people like to read fiction, biographies, autobiographies and so on.
4. What are the benefits of listening to stories or reading novels?

Such activities improve imagination and creativity. They develop language and communication skills.
5. Are you a good storyteller?

I think I am. I tell stories to my younger cousins when they visit us. They are glued to me when I tell them
stories. So, I suppose I am good at story telling.
1 How does technology help people tell stories?

I think there are two ways in which technology helps in telling stories. Firstly, with help of technology
people can animate their stories and help the audience to visualize the characters. Secondly, technology
helps to reach a wider audience.
2 Do you prefer to read e-books or printed books?

I prefer printed books over e-books because I find it difficult to read on a small mobile device. Moreover I
think reading ebooks on brightly lit screens is harmful for the eyes.
3 Why are mystery novels so popular nowadays?

Mystery novels are popular simply because of the curousity factor. People are always interested in things
involving suspense and in stories where the outcome is not certain. Such novels keep people guessing till
the end and thus they like it more as compared to any other novel in which they would know the ending
beforehand.
4 What kinds of novels are suitable for a film adaptation?

I think all kinds of novels, be it suspense, drama or thriller are sutiable for film adaptation. Anyhting that
can be written as a story could be visualized as well.
100
55. Describe a movie you would like to watch

again
- When you saw this movie
- With whom you saw this movie
- What the movie is about
- Why do you want to watch this movie again
 I watch a lot of Hindi movies.

 Few years ago a movie PK was released.
 Fornutately, my exams had just gotten over and my friends decided to celeberate, so we booked the
tickets for this movie.
 Aamir Khan has played the lead role in this movie.
 In this movie an alien comes from outer space in a UFO but unfortunately loses his remote control off
his UFO
 The whole movies revolves around his search for that remote control
 In doing so, this alien questions the blind faith of people in these man-made gods, and takes people
away from superstitions.
 This alien meets a girl and falls in love with her.
 This love is one-sided
 The girl loves somebody else
 But it is with her efforts that the remote control is ultimately found
 Anushka Sharma plays the role of the girl
 Aamir Khan does not act in many movies, but whatever work he does, he puts his heart and soul into
it
 I would like to see this movie again at home on TV.
 I am just waiting for any Over the top (OTT) App such as Netflix or hotstar to take the initiative and
make the movie available on their platform
 I would like to watch it with my family, as it is a family movie.
 I have seen this movie once in my life but I really want to see the movie again as Amir Khan is my
favorite actor
 That is why even though I know the story I would like to watch this film at home with my parents.
101
1. What’s the difference between watching a movie at home and watching it in the cinema?
There are many differences between watching a movie at home and in the cinema hall. When you watch
a movie at home, it saves your money and time. You can do some multitasking and also you can change
channels if you don’t like a movie.
In the cinema hall, you enjoy a movie on the big screen, which makes all the difference especially in action
movies. You enjoy the company of your friends and family and you also enjoy the refreshments in the
interval.
2. Do young Indians like to watch foreign movies?

Yes, they do. Foreign movies have much better technology and much better effects. They get to learn the
language and the storyline is also different from which they learn about the foreign culture.
3. How would you define a good movie?

A good movie should have a good script, good cast, good direction, good special effects and should have a
message.
4. Is it important to have famous actors in the movie if the movie wants to be successful? Or Are actors
or actresses important to movies? Why?
Not necessarily. A movie can be successful, without famous actors. Sometimes, the movie makes the debut
actor or actress famous.
5. Do you prefer to watch a movie at home or in the cinema?

I prefer to watch a movie at home than in the cinema. It saves me time and money. I can change channels
if I don’t like the movie. I can do some multitasking side by side. I can enjoy the movie in the cozy comfort
of my bed.
6. Do you think that cinemas will disappear in the future? Or Why are there fewer people going to the
cinema to watch movies nowadays?
What the future holds in store for us, no one can tell, but as far as I can see, cinemas will never disappear.
People love to go out and enjoy with friends and family. In the past few years there has been a mushroom
growth of multiplexes, which shows that people love to watch movies in cinema halls.
7 Where do people normally watch movies?
102
56. Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic

jam.
You should Say:
- When and where it happened

- How long you were in the traffic jam
- What you did while waiting
- And explain how you felt when you were in that traffic jam.
 I live in a small town and in general, there is not much traffic on the roads.
 The only time we face traffic jams is when there is a religious procession or a political rally.
 And most of the times, these are announced beforehand so I rarely get stuck in traffic jams.
 However, last month I had gone to Jalandhar to buy some clothes for my cousin’s wedding.
 When we went, there was no traffic.
 On the way back, the main road was shut down as there had been a collision between two
buses between Phagwara, my hometown and Jalandhar.
 Big cranes had to be called to remove the buses from the roads and that took time.
 This being a main road slowly led to a huge jam.
 The traffic police tried to get the traffic diverted through the service road.
 But the road was considerably narrower than the main road and because of that the traffic
built up.
 We were stuck in the jam for at least 2 to 3 hours.
 At first, we didn’t think we would have to wait for so long.
 We thought it was just busier than normal and things would clear up soon.
 However, when our car barely moved 100 metres in 15 minutes, my dad went out and
enquired about what had happened.
 We couldn’t really back up as there was no space.
 So, we tried to use the time by playing games and listening to music.
 To be honest, we also spent a big part whining about government failure, although we all knew
such circumstances are unavoidable.
 I don’t think I could describe what we felt at that time.
 We all just wanted the traffic jam to clear up and reach home as soon as possible.
 But the day ended on a happy note as far I as was concerned.
 Because we reached home late, my mother didn’t get time to cook.
 And we got Pizzas to eat for dinner.

Follow-ups
1. Are traffic jams common in Indian cities?
Yes, India has a huge population and traffic jams are not uncommon especially in big cities like
Delhi, Bombay, Chennai and Kokatta. Moreover, there is also a bad culture of parking cars on the
roads in India, which reduces available space for parking and leads to jams.
2. Why are cities today facing serious traffic issues?

I think the main reason for the serious traffic issues is increasing urbanisation. More and more
people are moving to cities for the better quality of life but this leads to more cars than roads can
103
handle. Moreover, some older cities have narrow roads as they were not designed keeping today’s
use of cars in minds. These narrow roads restrict traffic flow and lead to jams.
3. What can be done to improve traffic conditions in cities?

First, I think the government should promote the use of public transportation by making it more
comfortable and faster. For example, the traffic conditions in Delhi have improved considerably
after the launch of Delhi Metro. Also, the roads need to be widened wherever possible to
accommodate more cars.
4. Can developing public transport help resolve traffic issues in cities?

I think public transportation can resolve traffic issues but if it is fast and comfortable. Delhi had local
trains for long time and people did not prefer them because they were slow. However, the construction
of Delhi metro, which is quite fast and comfortable, made a real dent in traffic

57. Describe an invention that has changed how
people live.
You should say:
- What it is
- How has it changed people’s lives
- What benefits did it bring
- And explain if it is more important for older or younger people.
 Life has progressed by leaps and bounds due to inventions in science.

 Nearly every field in life has been impacted by some invention or the other.
 However, today I would like to talk the invention, which has had an impact on our entire life.
 It is the internet.
 Nearly everything we do has changed because of the internet.
 The biggest difference has been on the way we communicate.
 We can talk to anyone, anytime and from anywhere.
 Also, it is much easier to remain in contact with our friends and family members because of
the internet.
 Life has become faster as communication has become instantaneous.
 Internet’s impact is not only limited to just communication.
 It has made a difference to the way we shop, the way we learn and the way we seek
healthcare.
 We can access every luxury, sitting in the comforts of our home.
 On the other hand, there have also been a few negatives of the internet.
 Internet has in some ways decreased respect for the elderly.
 First, we don’t value them as much because we are not dependent upon them for advice or
suggestions as in the past.
 We can search for anything online.
 If we don’t know anything, we don’t need to ask anyone, we can just simply search it online.
 This is making us independent, but at the same time making our grandparents and parents
104
feel like they are losing their importance.
 Secondly, because they are not that comfortable with use of computers and the internet, they
haven’t been benefited as much as the young one’s have.
 Slowly, everything is moving online and the old people are finding it challenging to adapt
because of this.
Follow-ups
1. How has technology made our life easier?

Different technologies have made our lives easier in different ways. However, in effect most
technologies reduce our labour and save us valuable time, thus improving our quality of life
considerably. They also in a way reduce our need on others because we can do everything on our
own.
2. Which invention do you think is the most useful at home?

I think it’s very hard to choose one. It really depends upon the person and their use. For example, I
find dishwashers as very useful because in my house, I have the responsibility of washing utensils.
For my mother the answer might be the vacuum cleaner as she is responsible for cleaning.
3. Is it more difficult for old people to accept new technologies?

I think change is difficult for everyone and the difficulty increases with age because the time we
spend accustomed to something also increases as we grow older. I think rather than looking at it as
a problem, we should be focusing on ways to making it easier for our elders to accept them.
4. What can be done to help old people learn to make use of new technologies?
Many steps can be taken to encourage the use of new technologies. Firstly, these big technology
companies can organise seminars where older people can be taught about use of latest gadgets. I
remember when my mother first bought a laptop, she was offered a free two hour session on its
use for the whole week. At the end of the week, she knew many things, I didn’t. Secondly, family
members can also be helpful in helping their parents and grandparents when they are finding
something difficult.
5. Will our life be better if we live without technology？

Technology has improved our life in many ways but it has also brought many challenges. Life would
certainly be simpler, but I wouldn’t call it better. Moreover, I think we have become so accustomed
to technology just the idea of living without it is unfathomable.

105
58. Describe a family member whom you would like

to work with in the future.
You should say:
- Who the person is

- Have you ever worked with the person before
- What kinds of work you would like to do with the person
- And explain how you will feel if you can finally work together.
• I have always wanted to work in a big multinational company.

• I would never miss a chance to work in any such company.
• However, my uncle runs a spare part manufacturing company by the name of Akal Industries.
• I have seen him grow from a small firm with a handful of employees working under him, to a
fairly big company with about 300 employees.
• I am sure that with his way of working and his rapport with his employees, the day is not far
when it will be no less than any MNC
• I would love to work with him.
• I would like to do my ‘Masters in Business Management’ from Canada and then join him.
• I have never worked with him so far, but have seen him work many times.
• He is in his forties and is tall and very handsome.
• His son Aman is the same age as I, and we are both classmates.
• My uncle has promised that he would allow us to work for his company only after we have
both got some degrees from good colleges in hand.
• Aman wants to go for Mechanical Engineering and I want to do Business management.
• With different skills in hand we both would prove to be an asset to the company.
• I would feel very good if I would get a chance to work in my uncle’s company.
• Although he has so many employees, he himself also works with the machines with them. He
looks after their needs very well.
• All of them are happy working for him.
• He has taken part in many auto fests in India and abroad.
• He gets many orders from abroad and always fulfills them in time even though he has to make
his workers work double time.
• He is very quality conscious and if any end product does not meet his expectations, he takes
a second to discard it.
• It would be great to work for a person like him, and be like him one day.
Follow-ups
Family businesses:
1. Are there any positive effects of working with a family member?
Certainly, there are many benefits of working with a family member. A family member would be
more supportive if an occasional time off is needed. Secondly, the family member would also be
satisfied as he would not have the fear of any outsider cheating him in business. However, one
must realise that some work ethics have to be maintained even if one is working for a family
member.
106
2. What kinds of family businesses are there in India?

India is a diverse country and a fast growing one too. All sorts of family businesses are there in
India. My hometown Phagwara is a hub of small scale industry. Many people are into making auto
spare parts. I visited Rajkot in Gujarat and I saw many households run the business of Patola sarees.
You name a business, and you will find it in India.
3. Why do people like to set up a family business?

Family business ensures employment within a family. If a person has some business know-how, he
can start a small business and make it grow with family support. One does not have to go out
hunting for jobs. By having a family business, one can be a job provider rather than being a job
seeker.
4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a family business?

The advantages are that one does not have to go out hunting for jobs. By having a family business,
one can be a job provider rather than being a job seeker. An entrepreneur is his own boss. If the
whole family works hard and the business flourishes, it can be a rags to riches story.
The disadvantages are that if the business faces a slump, the whole family can turn from riches to
rags overnight. The family members may also have conflicts if they feel that some of them are just
reaping benefits without actually working hard.
5. What are the causes for the success of a family business?

The success of a family business are dependent on mutual trust among the family members,
disciplined atmosphere at work and recognition of each others inputs.
6. How is the relation among members of a family business?

For any family business to thrive, good relation among family members is of paramount
importance. If this is not there then the family business can see its doom very soon.
Family in general:
1. In what ways have families in your country changed recently?
Families have changed from joint to extended. This change has mostly been out of compulsion
rather than choice. Young people are getting jobs in metros and in foreign countries. So, they leave
their parents behind. However, these nuclear units are well connected to each other.
2. Should husbands and wives have different roles within the family?
Gender differences are disappearing these days and both husband and wife have to work outside
for making a comfortable living. So, roles within the family should ideally be the same. However,
these changes will take some time to implement. Women are yet supposed to look after household
chores more than men despite being out of the home for the same time as men.
3. Which are more important to you: your family or your friends?

Both are important to me, but family definitely has an edge over friends. Friends can turn out to be
fair weather friends, but family is always there through one’s thick and thin. It has been rightly said
that ‘in times of test, family is best’.
107
Working in large companies:
1. What are the advantages of working in a big company?
There are many advantages of working in a big company. Firstly, big companies offer big salaries.
Secondly, there is a status symbol attached. Also, there are chances of foreign visits. Finally, there is
multi-culture experience in big companies
2. Will promotion be easier in a big company?

I don’t think so. In a big company, you are part of a big crowd. Unless your work really stands out,
you are not even noticed.
3. Should big companies donate more to charities?

Definitely yes. Big companies have a corporate social responsibility. Under that, they are supposed
to do charity.
4. Should big companies be punished more seriously if they break the law?
I don’t think so. Punishment should be the same for all if they break the law. Even a small company
should be punished as severely.
108
59. Talk about an important river or lake in your

country or hometown
- Which water body is that
- How do you know about it?
- Why does it impress you so much
 India is a diverse country.

 There are many rivers, lakes, beaches in India which are important.
 One important river that I would like to talk about here is the river Ganges or the Ganga, as
we popularly call it
 I don’t exactly remember when I learnt about it but I think it was most likely in school.
 It was a part of Geography class which covered major Indian rivers.
 I think I learnt more about it through news as I grew older.
 I don’t know everything about it but I do know quite a lot about it.
 It emerges out of the Himalayas from the glaciers and falls into the Bay of Bengal.
 It is a perennial river as water is available throughout the year.
 It receives water from two sources, the glaciers in the Himalayas and the rainfall in the
monsoon season.
 It is impressive for many reasons, the first being its length.
 It is one of the longest rivers of the world and it is the longest river in India.
 Many people are dependent upon it for their livelihood.
 The farmers use its water for agriculuture and people also do fishing in this river.
 The river is also famous for religious reasons.
 It is considered sacred and many Hindu festivals are organised on the banks of river Ganga.
 In fact, last rites of Hindus are conducted on the river banks as well.
 A dip in the river Ganga is believed to wash away all the sins.
 However, in recent years, I hear about the river mostly for the wrong reasons like excessive
pollution, illegal fishing and illegal sand mining from the river banks.
 I have also heard about fish and dolphins dying because of these activities.
 The governments have promised to bring about changes but unfortunately the results have
been far from satisfactory.
 But, I also believe that government can’t do anything, if people do not support it in its actions. 

Follow-ups
1. Why do many people like going to places with water such as lakes, rivers, or seas?
People like to go to such places because they can do various activities there and have a fun time.
They can do swimming, boating, rafting, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and so on. Moreover,
India has a long coastline. People can find such places easily and so these places have become
important tourist destinations.
2. What kinds of leisure activities do people like to do in water places?

They can do swimming, boating, rafting, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and so on.
109
3. Do children and old people relax in the same ways when they go to beach?
No, they relax in different ways as their age allows them. The elderly just sit there and watch their
children and grandchildren play with the waves. Children run around the beach, play beach
volleyball, swim, splash in water and relax by sweating out their energy.
4. Why do people like water sports?

People like water sports because they are fun especially during the long summer months. For
people who don’t live near the coastal areas or any other water bodies, such places are a change
and so they are fun and exciting.
5. Do you think beach or seaside is more suitable for children or old people to spend their
leisure time at?
Yes, it is. However, they should refrain from going near water during high tide. Beaches where a lot
of people are there are relatively safer than those which are isolated.
6. Is there much water transportation in your country?

I live in the north of India. There is no water transportation here, but as you go south, there is a
long coastline where water transportation is very common.
7. Do people travel by boat in your country?

People living in coastal areas do travel by boat for short distances.
8. How important is water in daily life?

Water is the very essence of life. It is as simple as – no water, no life. That is why when space
exploration is done, the first thing to see is signs of water. Otherwise no life is possible there.
9. How important are rivers and lakes to the cities where they located?
Water bodies are very important. They are a source of livelihood for fishermen. These water bodies
attract tourists who in turn boost the economy of these places.
10. Do the rivers in your country suffer from serious pollution?

Yes, pollution of these water bodies is a big issue. That is why the government of India has launched
a massive campaign to save the river Ganges.
11. Do you think human activity is posing a threat to oceans globally?

Yes, definitely. People are dumping their waste in these oceans. Industries are dumping untreated
effluents in oceans. Then there are oil-spills from time to time.










110

60. Talk about a traditional object of your country or

Talk about a traditional product of your country that
you bought
- What is it
- How is it made
- When did you try it for the first time
- Why do you like it
• India is rich in tradition and culture

• It is also very diverse.
• Traditional products are different in different parts of India
• Here I would like to talk about a traditional product which is of Punjab
• Jutti is an urdu word for shoe with a closed upper attached to a sole
• These are traditionally made of pure leather.
• They are is beaded, threaded and embroidered in different eye-catching colours.
• They are made by skilled craftsmen.
• Some designs are very intrinsic and delicate
• Some are just plain or use coloured leather
• I have many Punjabi juttis
• I wear them very often
• I remember, the first time I wore Punjabi jutti was on my cousin’s wedding, two years ago.
• After that I liked it so much that I started wearing them in routine.
• They are very comfortable
• They are the most versatile footwear.
• They are popular among both genders.
• They can be worn everyday, on weddings, parties and on festivals
• They were first introduced by the Mughals and were very popular among the royalty
• First the raw hide is processed
• Then it is dyed
• Then the cobblers make the juttis
• Finally stitching and embroidery is done in the end.
• I like them because, they looks beautiful and are also very comfortable to wear.
111
Follow-ups
1. Describe another traditional product from your country (apart from what you spoke about)
India is a diverse country. There are many traditional products here. We have earthen pots, ceramic
pottery of Jaipur, puppets of Rajasthan, phulkari embroidery of Punjab, hand-knotted carpets of
Srinagar and many more.
2. What are the benefits of traditional products to locals?

Traditional products keep the locals in touch with their culture and tradition. They also become a
source of earning, when tourists show interest in these products and buy them.
3. Do you think the government should help in the promotion of traditional products?
Definitely, it should. If governments promotes traditional products, only then these will remain alive,
otherwise these products will die and so will our culture and tradition.
4. Do you think because of globalization countries are adopting each other’s traditions.
Yes, as countries know about these traditions, they adopt them. In a way it is good. Diwali is
celebrated by many people outside India also. We have also started celebrating Valentine’s Day,
Grandparents’ Day, Father’s Day and Mother’s Day etc
5. Why do people buy traditional products because of their traditional value or because of they
are handmade.
People buy these products for both these reasons. Handmade things have their own charm and only
handmade things can have the real traditional value. When things are made in bulk using machines,
then the whole traditional value of the thing is lost.
6. Did the traditional things of the past have more value than the present things?
Yes, of course. We must remember that the things we consider new and modern today will become
traditions for the future. So, the traditional things of the past were different and as time passes those
things become antiques and so become more valuable.
7. Did the traditional things of the past have better quality than the present things?
Not necessarily. The things made today also have good quality. Actually, it depends on the person
making those things. There have always been good craftsmen and bad craftsmen.
8. Is it necessary to protect traditions?

Yes, of course. Traditions are our roots. They bind us to our past. Without traditions we would feel
cut off from our past.
9. Do you think teenagers should learn about traditions?

Yes, they should be taught. Otherwise, they will feel cut off from the past. As it is, the teenagers of
today are being lured by the global culture and are drifting away from traditions
112
61. Describe a positive change in your life

- What the change was
- When it happened
- How it happened
- And explain why it was a positive change
• Change is the law of nature.

• We all make changes in our life from time to time.
• I have also made many changes in my life.
• Here I would like to talk about a positive change that I made in my life recently.
• This change is that I have started managing my time very effectively.
• Earlier I used to procrastinate a lot.
• I was a real cunctator. (You may skip this line)
• I used to do everything at the 11th hour.
• Most of my work was left undone.
• One day I read an article in The Tribune on Effective Time Management.
• The writer had very nicely explained the importance of time management.
• Everybody on Earth has the same 24 hours in a day.
• The only difference between success and failure is effective time management.
• Time is the most important commodity on Earth.
• We can buy gold and silver but we cannot buy time.
• The writer had also given simple ways to manage time.
• I started making a list of to-do things before going to bed.
• I try my best to fulfil it the next day.
• This has brought a sea change in my life.
• Now I have time for everything.
• I have time for my hobbies and even for visiting neighbours and relatives.
• It has also reduced stress in my life because not a single important work is pending.
• Earlier, I used to be very tense about my pending works, but now I complete all my work in
time and so feel relaxed all the time.
• I feel very good about it.
• I feel I am a new person.
Follow Ups
1. Is your country changing rapidly?

Yes, my country is changing rapidly. India is a developing country and is changing day-by-day for the
better. With the advancement of technology it is stepping fast from a developing to a developed
country. Change has always been happening, but technology has hastened the process of change.
2. How is your country changing?

I think my country is changing in many ways. Firstly, I can see the effect of globalisation, people are
wearing western clothes, eating western cuisines and watching foreign shows more and more.
Secondly, people are also becoming modern in their thinking and views. Many wrong traditional
practices like dowry are losing ground. Finally, we are developing in infrastructure and facilities. Many
modern facilities like fast internet connectivity , subways are accessible to people today.
113
3. Do you believe that the changes your country went through are positive?
For me, most of the changes have been positive. But I think this is also due to the fact that I am
optimist and I like to look at things from a positive side. Moreover, although I consider that most of
the changes have been positive, some have happened at a slower pace than I had hoped.
4. Do you think change is good？

Well change can be both good and bad. It really depends upon on the change and why we are making
the change. In the end, if we are changing for the right reasons, to make our ourselves better, then
change is definitely good. However, if we are being forced to change or if we are developing negative
habits like drinking, smoking due to stress or peer pressure, I would consider it bad.
5. What are some of the major changes that usually occur in people in their lives?
I think changes occur throughout our life. First are the physical and hormonal changes which occur
when we go through puberty like developing facial hair, deepening of voice and so on. Then, it is
mental maturity, which occurs as we experience and face different things. We learn how to deal with
issues and face challenges.
6. Is it important for people to make changes according to their surroundings?

Yes, I think there is no problem in changing according to surroundings as long we don’t feel like we
are changing our identity because of these changes. For example, when in a foreign country, it is
perfectly fine to try out foreign clothes and dishes. At the same time, if a person is a vegetarian, I
wouldn’t consider it fine to try non-vegetarian just to fit in
62. Talk about an important/Special event you

celebrated
- What was it
- When did you celebrate
- Where did you celebrate
- Who was with you
- Why was It special
 I have attended many events in my life such as weddings and festivals.

 Here I would like to talk about our national festival Diwali, which I celebrated with my family
on 19th October last year.
 I remember very well how the whole month before Diwali, we were busy in the cleaning of
our home.
 We bought gifts to give to our friends and relatives.
 Normally we buy crackers to burn on that day, but this year we did not buy any crackers, as
pollution is growing day by day.
 On the actual day of Diwali, we all went to the Gurdwara to pay obeisance to the almighty and
seek his blessings.
 After that we went to some friends and relatives homes to present them the gifts we had
bought for them
114
 Then we came home and decorated our home with candles and diyas.
 This time my father had also got some electric lights fitted in our home.
 My mother cooked special dishes for us and we enjoyed dinner.
 We also remember we turned on all the lights of our house and all the doors open because it
is believed that Goddess Laxmi visits the homes on that day.
 I felt very good as I enjoyed all that very much.
 You know mam/Sir, Diwali holds a special significance for us.
 It is celebrated because on this day Lord Rama returned from Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
 It is also celebrated because the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind ji was set free from Gwalior Jail
with 52 kings.
 On this day, the arrogant tyrant Bali was killed by lord Vishnu.
 So this is a traditional celebration, which all Indians celebrate with great pomp and show
Follow-ups
1. How do people in your country celebrate events?
People celebrate events in many ways. Some hold family get-togethers, others properties and some
celebrate by burning crackers. Some people celebrate by just going out for a lunch or dinner, while
some others celebrate by donating to charities.
2. What events do Indian people like to celebrate?

Indian people like to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, festivals like Deepawali and Dussehra. Some
people celebrate if they do well in their exams, other people celebrate if they win any competition.
3. Why do you think celebration is important?

Celebration is very important. It is a time when people spend some time together and share the
happiness of each other. Such events also bring about social harmony and peace.
4. Do you prefer big or small celebrations?
I personally prefer small celebrations, because in these we can interact with all the people present.
Big celebrations are just a show-off and the hosts hardly even come to know who all were there.
5. Why do some people like expensive and grand celebrations?

Some people like expensive and grand celebrations because they want to show their status, and they
want such events to be an everlasting memory in their minds.
6. Do you think it is a waste of money to spend much on celebrations of national events?

No, I do not think it is a waste of money to spend on celebrations of national events. Such events
bring a feeling of patriotism in the minds of young people, who are otherwise drifting away from their
culture and tradition. Such events also attach young people to their roots.
7. How can people prepare for an event?

People can prepare for any event by planning in advance. First they decide their budget and after
that they make a list of people home to invite. Then they decide what all they would like to do on
that day when all the guests have arrived. They arrange a proper lunch or dinner and also arrange
some games and other things which they would like to do on that day.
115
8. Do you like to plan for an important meeting or activity?
Yes, I would definitely like to plan for an important meeting or activity. If any event is not planned
then it can result in total chaos. If land well any event can leave an everlasting imprint on the minds
of all those who attend it.
9. What factors should be considered when planning an event?

The first thing to be considered when planning an event is deciding on a budget. After that all the
activities that need to be done on that they have to be looked into. Then it has to be decided whether
the event should be held in a hotel or at home. The games to be played on that day all the activities
to be done on that they have also to be blind well. All this can never be a one-man show. Teamwork
is very important in planning such events.
63. Describe a time when you observed the stars

- When you observed the stars
- Where and with whom you went?
- What you observed
- And explain how you felt when you saw the stars.
• I like to look at the sky at night and enjoy the twinkling stars.
• I have been doing that since my childhood.
• Here I would like to talk about a time, I remember well, when I observed the stars in a very
interesting way.
• Last year, it was my cousin’s wedding in September.
• We had so many guests, that my cousins and I had to sleep on the terrace.
• It was quite pleasant outside and we were happy with the arrangements of sleeping outside.
• After dinner, we all carried our beddings upstairs and laid our beds.
• It was a clear moonlit night and we could see the stars twinkling brightly.
• We started giving shapes to the star patterns.
• It was great fun.
• My cousin, Rubina is 13 years old and had come from America. She told us that her
geography teacher had told her a lot about constellations and the sun and the
planets.
• She told us in a very interesting way what the stars can teach us.
• We were very impressed by the way things were taught in her school in America.
• All I remember was mugging up chapters from my geography book to pass the exams.
• We gazed at the stars and enjoyed the twinkling and tried to figure out some constellations.
• She also told me the names of a few constellations, but unfortunately, I don’t remember
them now, as it is more than one year when she told me about them.
• There are many mythological stories related to stars.
• Once, my friend in school told me that when a person dies, he becomes a star.
• Many people who have lost their near and dear ones look at the stars to find them.
So this was the time that I remember well when I admired the stars
116
Follow-ups
1. Why do people like to study the sky?

People like to study the sky to notice the changes in weather; some see it as an inspiration for arts
like painting, photography, etc. It is also important to study about sky and space to understand that
we are a part of a very large universe, which ignites our curiosity about what’s beyond the sky. Some
people study it, as they believe that planetary movements affect a person’s fate.
2. Do you know any story related to planets?

I don’t remember any one story, but I used to read the comics series Chacha Chaudhary, in which
there is a giant named ‘Sabu’ who visits Earth from Jupiter and decides to stay back with Chacha
Chaudhary, after he tastes the food on Earth. There are also many movies made about superheroes
from other planets, like PK, Spiderman, etc
3. Do you think children should be told planet stories to improve their imagination?
Yes, definitely. It is very important that children be told stories about other planets. It most certainly
helps improve their creativity and imagination, because of the curiosity it ignites/creates in their
minds. Some children also end up taking it up as a career path and grow up to be astronauts, space
research scientists, rocket engineers, etc.
4. Would children be benefited from watching stars?

Yes, children would be benefitted from watching stars. They become curious about the universe and
outer space, which help increase their creativity and also, might help them chose it as a career path
in the future.
5. Would you like to watch movies on planets?

Yes, I like to watch movies about other planets and outer space. In fact, I recently watched one such
movie, PK, where an alien comes from another planet to Earth. It is a very good and inspirational
movie, where this alien character has been used very nicely to portray all the blind superstitions we
follow. This movie was a blockbuster/super-hit.
6. Did you like to watch the sky when you were young?
Yes, I liked to watch the sky when I was young. I remember that during summer vacations, we used
to visit our farmhouse and we used to sleep outside, in the open. At that time I did not know anything
about constellations, but we used to find the night sky with the twinkling stars very fascinating and
beautiful.
117
64. Describe a plant, vegetable or crop that you are

familiar with.
You should say:
- what it is and where it grows

- How you became familiar with it
- what you like or dislike about it
- and explain why this is important for your country.
india is a diverse country
• There are many kinds of plants in India
• All the plants are useful in some way or the other
• The plant I am going to talk about here is the bamboo plant.
• I recently received it as a gift from one of my friends.
• The small bamboo sticks were tied together using red ribbons and my friend also gifted me a
transparent glass container along with it.
• I first saw this plant in my uncle’s garden, I was probably 10 years old at that time.
• It is a very versatile and useful plant.
• There are more than 1500 species of this plant all over the world.
• It can be grown in a multitude of habitat from sea level to 12000 ft.
• It is one of the most adaptable plants with many uses.
• For instance, it can grow in very degraded soils.
• Because of this it can be used to repair soil damaged by overgrazing and poor agricultural
techniques.
• In addition, it has a complex root network.
• This is ideal for preventing soil erosion and flooding
• Unlike most tree species, harvesting does not kill the bamboo.
• So, topsoil erosion and other adverse effects of tree felling are kept to a minimum.
• The most important point is that bamboo produces 35% more oxygen than other trees.
• Research has shown that bamboo can absorb as much as 12 tonnes of carbon dioxide per
hectare per year.
• So, this plant can play a great role in stabilizing our country’s atmosphere.
• It can prove an eco-friendly alternative to slow-growing hardwoods.
• It is also being used by the construction industry for wooden flooring.
• It is very durable.
• It has resistance to shrink or swell.
118
Follow-ups
1. Do people in your country like to grow plants at home?

Yes, they do. Home gardening is a fast growing hobby among the urban people who have even the
slightest space for plants. People are also doing terrace gardening. Even I have a kitchen garden. I
don’t have much open space, but I have grown coriander, mint, green chillies, okra and aubergine in
pots. I also have a lemon tree and we enjoy fresh lemons throughout the year.
2. Do old people grow plants?

Yes, they love to. They have the knowledge also. My grandfather keeps guiding me about the water
requirements of plants. He also keeps changing the position of our pots. He knows which plants need
shade and which need sunshine.
3. How do schools teach students to grow plants?

Unfortunately, schools do not teach these things. At least in the schools I know of. Some schools may
be doing so, by organising some activities related to the environment.
4. What is the main plant of your country?

India is a diverse country and enjoys tropical climate. All sorts of plants grow here. There is no plant,
which I can call as the main plant. Basil is worshipped in hindu homes, ginger and turmeric have
medicinal values, aloe vera has also become very popular.
65. Describe a friend you like to talk with

You should say:
- Who he/she is
- What you like to talk about
- Why you like to talk with him/her
- And explain how you feel about him/her
 I have many friends and it takes me no time to get comfortable with strangers.
 Today, I am going to talk one of closest friends, Ravi.
 I love talking to him and spending time in his company.
 Ravi and I are childhood friends.
 I think we first met when we were just 3 years old.
 Our topics of conversation cover everything.
 We have talked about politics, technology, books and even movies.
 And once we start talking, we can continue for ages.
 It is never-ending.
 However, the one topic we love to talk about, is sports and especially cricket.
 Both of us are avid cricket lovers.
 During the cricket season, we get together and watch almost all the matches together.
 I love talking to him because he is so knowledgeable about cricket.
 Whenever I talk to him, I learn something I didn’t know before.
 I also know a lot about cricket but its mostly about Indian players and Indian matches.
119
 He follows all the matches.
 Moreover, it is never boring talking to him.
 He is a story teller.
 He doesn’t tell facts like facts.
 He narrates a story.
 I feel lucky to have him in my life.
 Another reason that I like his company is that he is excellent secret keeper.
 I have shared some of my deepest secrets and problems with him.
 I somehow always feel lighter and happier after talking to him.
Follow ups.
1. Where do young people like to meet?

Young people mostly at places of entertainment like malls, cafes, clubs, restaurants etc. Also,
nowadays young people love working out at gyms together.
2. What do young people talk about when they meet up?

I think young people mostly talk about clothes, movies, fashion, sports and technology. They also
talk about their love interests.
3. Do you think people should be honest when talking with friends?

I really think if we can’t be completely honest with friends, they are not actually friends. Saying
that, I also have a few friends who can’t really keep a secret, so I do hide a few things from them.
4. On what occasions do people talk with strangers?

People talk with strangers everyday. Personally speaking, I mostly talked with strangers when I used
to travel by a public bus to my school. Nowadays, I talk with strangers mostly at parties.
120
66. An interesting neighbour

Describe an interesting neighbour of yours.
- How long you have known this neighbour
- What sort of person he/she is
- How often you see him/her
- And explain what kind of relationship you have with him/her OR explain why you consider
this person to be an interesting neighbour
• Neighbours are just like family in today’s era of nuclear families.

• I have many neighbours and I am very fortunate that all my neighbours are very good.
• Here I would like to talk about my next-door neighbour, Mr. Joginder Singh.
• I call him Jogi uncle.
• I find him very interesting because one can never feel bored in his company.
• He has so many interesting stories to tell.
• I have known him for the past ten years as he moved into our neighbourhood tenyears ago.
• I see him every day because I go with him for morning walk daily.
• He is in his eighties.
• He is not very tall but looks very good.
• Even at this age he looks very hale and hearty.
• He generally likes to wear Kurta pajama.
• I believe he is a good neighbour because he is always there whenever anyone needs him.
• He also helped me a lot in my studies.
• He treats me like his grandchild.
• Even though he taught history at college, he helped me in all subjects till my tenth class.
• He is very helpful to all people in the neighbourhood.
• Whenever anyone comes to him for help, he is always willing to help.
• He is a retired history teacher.
• He reads a lot and seems to know something about everything.
• During our morning walk he tells me many stories about his life.
• He is a self made man.
• He told me how he started from scratch after the partition and worked very hard to make a
living.
• He has two sons who live in the States but he prefers to lead a simple life in his own home
here.
• I love listening to his stories.
• He also has a great sense of humour.
• He can lighten up any tense situation by cracking jokes.
• He has a magnanimous personality.
• He donates his entire pension for charity.
• He believes in simple living and high thinking.
• So, Joginder Singh is the person I like talking to the most.
121
1. Do you think (good) neighbours are important? (Why? How? Why not?
Good neighbors are important because they are our family apart from our real family. When we
are alone, and we need somebody then neighbors are the first people who can give us company.
When we are sick and need to go to the hospital, the neighbors are the first people who can help.
When we have guests and need a helping hand, then neighbors are the first people who come to
our rescue
2. What are the qualities of a good neighbour? (What qualities would you like your neighbours
to have?)
Good neighbors should have many qualities. They should be cooperative. They should be helpful.
Good neighbors should respect boundaries, which means that they should know when they are
being helpful, and when they are interfering.
3. Do most Indian people know their neighbours?

In smaller towns and cities, and in villages most people know their neighbors, but in big cities and in
metropolis, people are leading self-centered lives and do not know their neighbors. In small towns
and cities life is slower, and so people have time for their neighbors, where as in big cities, life is
fast and so people do not have time for their neighbors.
4. What are some of the qualities of a good community?

A good community should care for each other. All people in the community should cooperate with
each other. This should help each other in times of emergency. They should all keep the
environment clean. They should have frequent get-togethers, and celebrate festivals together. If all
people of the community know each other, then miscreants could be spotted easily and everybody
would feel safe and secure.
5. In India, are there any facilities for improving relations between neighbours?
Yes, the government authorities such as, PUDA, Punjab Urban Development Authority, has
provided well-maintained parks at regular intervals so that people can socialize. Such facilities have
been provided by all states. Even the private housing societies, which make and sell apartments,
have some combined facilities for all people in that society to use.
122
67. Describe a competition you would like to take

part in
- What kind of competition it is?
- What would you do in this competition?
- Why does this competition interest you?
 When I was in school, I participated in many competitions.

 Once I participated in a science fair. I was part of a team.
 Here, I would like to talk about a competition, I would like to take part in.
 It is a painting competition.
 Every year there is an environment fair held in my home town
 The Rotary Club organises this in the month of December.
 Many competitions are organised, such as mono-acting competition, poetry recitation, flower
arrangement, salad decoration, painting and so on.
 Individuals can participate, and even schools can send their students.
 My friend participated in flower arrangement competition last year and won the 1st prize.
 The prize was a small trophy and a book ‘The Wings Of Fire’ by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.
 I am very food at drawing and painting
 So, I would love to compete in a painting competition and try to do my best to win a prize.
 The theme of the painting is announced on the spot only.
 The brushes and paints have to be carried with you, but the drawing sheets are provided by
the organisers
 I have made many paintings with poster colours and gifted them to my friends and relatives.
 Everyone in my circle knows that I love drawing and painting.
 I am waiting for the annuar art fair this year, so that I can participate and try my luck at winning
a prize.
Follow-ups
1. What kinds of people are competitive?
I think in their hearts, all people like to compete and see where they stand among others. But, some
people are confident and want to compete more often. Some people are not so sure, but are pushed
into competitions by their parents or teachers. The fear of losing takes away the competition spirit
from many. Many people realise their potential only after competing.
2. What kind of activities/competitions people like to take part in?

People like to compete in singing, dancing, painting, sports, quizzes and many more types of
competitions. It really depends upon people’s interest. For example, people who are into physical
fitness like to try for marathons, weight lifting or other sports competitions.
3. What kinds of competitions are popular in your hometown?

Many competitions are popular in my hometown. There is an annual environmental festival and
during these two days there are competitions on various activities like weight lifting, dance, painting
,drawing, science presentation, essay writing competition, debates and so on. Then dog shows and
competitions are also very common in my hometown.
123
4. Why do you think there are many competition programs on TV today?
Firstly, people like to watch competition programs and most of these shows have very high TRP
ratings. Secondly, these shows are cheaper to produce and more profitable as producers make
money from text messaging and calling besides advertisements. They don’t need much planning or
scripts like other shows and they have greater chances of success as well.
68. Talk about a special day which was not that

expensive or on which you didn’t have to spend a
lot of money
- - What was the occasion
- - Where you went?
- - Who did you celebrate with
- - Why it didn’t cost you much?
• Well special days are very important in everyone’s life and in our country people spend a lot
on their special days like birthdays, marriages etcetera
• If on such occasion one doesn’t have to spend a lot of money, then it will make the day extra
special.
• I would like to talk about one such special day when I organised a birthday party for my
friends at a newly opened restaurant in our town.
• It was my 20th birthday and all of my friends were asking me for a treat.
• Since we had tried all the major restaurants in our town, I thought of taking them to a new
place.
• I saw an advertisement in the newspaper about a new theme based restaurant that had
opened in our city.
• The name of the restaurant was Big Chill Café and it was based on a musical theme.
• I quickly called the café and made a reservation for 8 people.
• They told me that per person cost would be around 1000 Rs and I gave them the
confirmation.
• We reached there around 8 PM in the evening.
• As soon as we entered the café we were astonished/amazed by the interiors of the café.
• The walls were decorated with huge poster of famous singers.
• The furniture was very trendy and the restaurant had beautiful lighting.
• In the background famous rock songs were being played
• There were also lot of musical instruments like guitar and drums lying in one corner of the
restaurant
• They had reserved a huge table in the centre for us.
• We quickly ordered some snacks which were also named after famous songs
• The starters were really delicious and we had a great time enjoying the snacks along with
the music.
• After that we ordered some food and surprisingly the waiters also brought a surprise
birthday cake which was ordered by my friends.
• But the biggest surprise came when I asked for the bill and it was only Rs 100 instead of Rs
124
8000.
• First of all I thought it was a mistake but when we called the hotel manager they told us that
we were their 100th customer so they decided to give us a discount.
• I was really overjoyed on hearing this and when I told my parents about it, they were also
very happy
• So it was a special birthday on which I gave a grand party to my friends but still I didn’t have
to spend a lot of money.
Follow-ups
1. Do teenagers spend much more money than before?

Yes, teenagers spend a lot more money than before because the average income of families have
grown as compared to the past. Moreover since there are nuclear families nowadays so parents like
to fulfil the wishes of their children and in order to make them happy they give them more pocket
money to spend.
2. How can people save money as much as possible?

Well, there are lot of ways to save money nowadays. People can invest their money in small savings
scheme floated by the government . They can also keep a certain amount of money from their
incomes every month and save it for later.
3. Did you ever have bad shopping experience?

Fortunately I never had a bad shopping experience but a friend of mine was duped by a car salesman
who sold him a used car instead of a new one. My friend discovered this after a week when he took
his car for washing and discovered used plastic bottles under the seats of the car. He then complained
to the car company and got a new car after one month.
4. Why is online shopping so popular these days?

Online shopping is popular these days because it provides lot of convenience and better pricing to
the customers. People can order anything while sitting in the comfort of their homes, moreover they
get a lot of discounts when they shop online compared to brick and mortar stores.
5. Do you think you can buy something from a physical store without money?
Well it’s a very interesting question and recently I heard about a technology called amazon go in
which you can just walk into a store, pick the items that you need and just take it away in your bag
and money will be automatically deducted from your account. I saw a video of this technology on
youtube and I think it will become a lot popular in the future.
125
69. Describe something that helps you concentrate

- What it is?
- When you do it?
- How did you learn about it?
- How it helps you concentrate?
• Life has become very fast and it looks as if there is too much to do and too little time.
• So, concentrating on one thing and doing it nicely has become a big problem.
• I have tried many things to help me concentrate.
• Sometimes, I take a power nap and sometimes I do yoga.
• Here I would like to talk about a method which I tried doing to improve my concentration,
and it has worked wonders for me.
• I go out and do some brisk walking in a park opposite my house.
• I sweat out my worries and stress and feel very light after that.
• I have noticed that whatever I do after that, I can do with full concentration.
• You know ma’am, brisk walking is a form of aerobic exercise, which releases endorphins in
your body, which make you feel good and you can concentrate better with a happy mind.
• My cousin is a physiotherapist, and she told me the science behind this exercise.
• When I do yoga, even then my concentration improves, but brisk walking helps me shed
some pounds from my body.
• When I have to study long hours, such as during exams, I go up on my terrace and take a few
rounds.
• Then I can study with full concentration again.
• Walking is also good as we are all leading sedentary lifestyles.
• It provides the much needed exercise also
• So, walking is something, which helps me concentrate.
Follow-ups
1. Is it important for children to learn how to concentrate?
Yes, concentration is a very important skill and it is required at a lot of stages in life, like exams and
jobs. So children should practice to do their tasks with full concentration. If someone lacks
concentration then they find it difficult to understand things.
2. What can employers do to help employees concentrate?

There are lot of ways in which employers can help their employees in concentrating. Firstly, they can
provide them a silent workplace environment. They can also organize meditation camps for their
staff and teach them some concentration techniques.
3. What kinds of jobs require higher concentration at work?

I think, doctors specially surgeons require a high concentration at work. Other jobs are like drivers as
they have to always concentrate on the traffic.
4. Have you ever felt difficult to concentrate?

Yes, sometimes I find it difficult to concentrate. The reasons are sometimes internal or external.
Internal factors like stress take away the peace of mind and it becomes difficult to concentrate.
Regarding external factors, sometimes people lose their concentration because of loud noises.
126
5. What kinds of distractions bother you in life?

There are multiple distractions which affect me. The biggest one is my smartphone which keeps
buzzing constantly and takes my attention away from studies. Then sometimes my friends ask me to
go out with them and due to this I lose my precious study hours.
70. Describe an activity you do to keep fit

- • What the activity is
- • When and where you usually do it
- • How you do it
- • Explain why it can keep your fit
(Sample answer)
• I do a lot of things to stay healthy such as morning walk, yoga, cycling and so on but here
I would like to talk about the morning walk.
• Every day I get up early in the morning and go for morning walk.
• I go with my grandfather, who is 95.
• He has never missed his morning walk in his life.
• In fact his secret of good health is the morning walk.
• I joined him about a year ago and ever since I also have been very regular.
• We go to a park near our home.
• There is a jogging track in the park which is full of activity in those early morning hours.
• My grandfather and I both wear our track suits and walking shoes while walking.
• During our walk, my grandpa tells me a lot of stories.
• He has a lot to tell and sometimes I am surprised at his memory,
• Morning walk has a lot of benefits,
• I used to be very fat, in fact a couch potato, but now I am very fit - all because of the walk
and all because of my grandfather who made me do it,
• Morning walk also improves the blood circulation.
• It is a good exercise for all age groups.
• The young can do a brisk walk and the elderly can do a leisurely stroll.
• There is a laughter club in my home town.
• Sometimes they too are there in the park at that time.
• They come there to laugh out their stress and worries.
• Their laughter is so infectious that when they laugh we also can't help laughing with them.
• So a morning walk is the activity which I do to stay healthy.
Follow-ups
1. What do old people in your country do to keep fit?
Old people do a lot to keep fit. They do yoga, go for walks, eat healthy food, avoid junk food and take
proper food supplements.
2. What kinds of sports are popular in India?

India is a diverse country. All types of sports are popular such as cricket, hockey, football, volleyball,
tennis and so on.
3. Do you think young people should play dangerous sports?

Yes, they should if they want to. However, they should do so under proper supervision and after
127
undergoing proper training from licensed companies.
4. What else people can do to keep fit besides sports?

People can avoid fast foods and eat healthy and balanced diet.
5. What can parents do to make their children like sports?

• They can make them join sports classes. They can act as role models. If they themselves play outdoor
sports, their children will automatically follow them. Even if they don’t play themselves, they can go out
with their children and watch them play.
•
71. Describe something that saves your time.

You should say:
- What is it?
- When you usually do it?
- Why you do it?
And explain how you think it saves your time?
 Time is the only thing in our life that is truly invaluable.

 If we lose money, we can earn it back, if we lose reputation, we can build it back but if we
waste time, it is lost forever. We cannot get that time back.
 I have learned about the importance of time more and more as I have grown older.
 I have realised that because of wasting time, I am not able to fulfil my commitments and I fall
back on my work.
 I do a lot of things to save time but one activity that saves me a lot of time is taking a small
10-15 minute nap whenever I feel tired.
 I started doing this, a few years back after I read an article about advantages of taking a nap
in a magazine.
 It saves me time as it refreshes me.
 After a nap, my mind feels lighter and I am able to finish my work much quicker.
 I just close my eyes, keep an alarm and try to lay down.
 Earlier it was very hard for me but now I can sleep on cue.
 I don’t struggle with it anymore.
 The challenging part is getting up but my phone’s alarm clock has been my saviour in this
regard.
 I do this every four five hours.
 If I can’t find a place to lay down, I just close my eyes and try to switch off my brain for 10
mins.
 I have noticed I save time, as I have much more free time.
 I am able to finish my work sooner.
 I am also less irritated and so I don’t get negative thoughts.
 Without any distractions, I am able to concentrate on things better.
128
Follow Up Questions
1 What can people do to save time?
People can do many things to save time. They can keep a calendar and note down everything, they
can plan things ahead, they can stop devoting time to non-important decision like what to eat , what
to wear and so on. However, I think the biggest thing they can do is to stop multitasking as I feel
people waste more time when they try to do more things together.
2 Does technology help people save time? How and why?

Yes and no. Technology does save time as it provides us appliances like washing machines which take
a lot lesser to finish work. At the same time, people become addicted to mobile phones and computer
and they end up wasting time.
3 Do you think parents should be responsible for teaching children to save time?
I learnt saving time by watching my mother. She has a habit - she never sits idle. She does something
productive all day - like knitting, reading or gardening. So, I think parents have a big role in teaching
children how to manage time. At the same time, I feel teachers also need to play a role- by helping
children make a time table.
4 Do people who can manage time well, become successful more easily?
There is doubt in my mind that this is true. We all have 24 hours in day. All that matters is how we
utilise these 24 hours. People who do it better become successful because they are able to do more.
72. Describe something important that you lost

- What it was
- How you lost it
- Why was it important to you
- How you felt when you lost it
• We all lose something or the other in life.

• I have also lost many things.
• Here I would like to talk about an important thing, which I lost last year.
• It was my first cell phone
• I got my first mobile phone when I completed my high school.
• It was a Samsung S2
• My uncle gifted it to me.
• I was very happy when my uncle gave me this phone.
• Unfortunately, I lost it when I travelled from Phagwara to Jalandhar by bus.
• There was a lot of rush, but I got a seat in the front row.
• I took out my phone to make a call, but after that I don't remember whether I put it back or
not.
• When I got down, I realised my phone was missing.
• The bus was to go to Amritsar. So, it had already left.
• I realised with a sinking heart that my phone was gone for ever
• So I went to an Airtel service centre and got a complaint lodged and got my sim cancelled.
• It was black in colour.
129
• It was a rectangular phone and had 4.3 inches touch screen display
• It also had a calculator, a calendar, an alarm, a light and some games.
• Its battery backup was very good.
• I was very possessive about my Samsung phone.
• I never let anybody touch my phone.
• I used an Airtel prepaid connection with it.
• I had to pay for it from my pocket money.
• So, I used it very frugally.
• I used to play tetris on my phone.
• I also used the phone to send SMS to my friends.
• Sometimes I used the calculator and sometimes I listened to FM radio on my phone.
• It was a very sturdy phone.
• Many times it had fallen from my hands, but it did not break and worked perfectly well.
• It had a camera of 5 megapixels on which I captured some photos of my friends and family.
• I clicked many selfies with it.
• I used many applications like whatsap and facebook to stay connected with my friends.
I miss my phone because it was a gift and was precious for me
Follow-ups
1. What kinds of people may lose things often?
People who have a bad memory and are unorganized tend to lose things often.
2. What can we do to prevent losing important things?

We should try to keep things organized like instead of leaving things here and there we should have
designated places for things and we should always place them there. For examples car keys should
be hung on a key holder, that way you will never lose them
3. What would you do if you saw something valuable but didn't belong to you on the street?
If I find something that doesn’t belong to me, I will first try to find the owner of that thing. If I am
unable to do so, then I will donate it to the poor.
4. What kinds of things have you lost so far?

Well I keep losing a lot of things and sometimes I really feel bad about it. Once I lost my wallet and
it had my id documents as well apart from the money. I have also lost my mobile phone, lunch box
etc
5. What do you usually do to look for lost items?

Firstly I try to remember where I had last kept the item, if I am not able to recall it, I ask my parents
or my friends.
130
73. Describe an interesting thing you have learned

from a foreign culture.
You should say:
- What it is
- How you learnt it
- Why you learnt it
- and explain how you think it will help others.
• An interesting thing I learnt from a foreign culture is the celebration of Mother’s day.
• Growing up in my country we never had an official celebration of Mother’s day.
• In our culture most of us still live with parents and we are very close to them.
• We love and respect our elders every day but there is no special day to celebrate them.
• When I was in college one of my friends who was studying in USA came back home in summer
break.
• We were meeting after so long and she shared so much about her college and how the culture
there was so different.
• One of the things she told me that really impressed me was Mother’s Day celebration there.
• It is celebrated on the second Sunday in May every year to honor the mothers.
• It is an opportunity for children to show their love and thank their mothers for all they have
done.
• She stays with her aunt in US and told me that on Mother’s Day her cousins made cards for
their mother, made her breakfast in bed, and helped her with chores all day.
• There was also a celebration of Mother’s Day in her cousin’s school. They all went out for
dinner that day and her uncle got a beautiful ring for her aunt.
• I also wanted to do something special for my mother and told my sister about this popular
western culture.
• I am very close to my mom and have seen her do so much for me and my sister every single
day.
• She worked full time, helped us with homework, made our favorite dishes, organized our
birthday parties, took care of us when we got sick.
• I always went to my mother when I was feeling sad, and she would make me forget about my
worries.
• So, dedicating one day to celebrate her felt really good to me and I started celebrating
Mother’s day every year.
• I still remember the smile on my mother’s face the first time we celebrated Mother’s day.
• I woke her up with tea. It felt so nice making morning tea for her. We didn’t let her do anything
that day.
• My sister cooked her a nice brunch and then all went out to the mall to get her a present and
had dinner at her favorite restaurant.
• I think adopting this western culture helps us show our mothers how much we appreciate
them.
• It helps us understand how much they do every single day. We tend to take our mother’s for
granted and don’t even realize how much they do for us.
• They sacrifice so much for us and have to balance both work and home. Fathers can get away
with just having a job, but mothers do it all.
131
• They are superwoman and we really should cherish them every day.
• A special day just for them is the very little we can do for them
Follow Up Questions
1. How do you learn about celebrations that are related to your culture?
We learn about celebrations from our parents and grandparents. We also learn about them by
attending family functions. We also learn through media by watching daily soaps. We also learn
through school and college functions.
2. What do you think are common celebrations all over the world?
There are many celebrations, which are celebrated all over the world. Such as – New year celebration,
Christmas celebration, Valentine Day celebration, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and so on.
3. Do you think we should follow our culture and traditions and why?
Yes, definitely, we should follow our culture and traditions because it keeps us in touch with our
roots. We can pass on our rich culture to our coming generation only if we know about it. I believe
that every culture has some good points, which need to be preserved.
4. How do you react to spending a lot of money on celebrations?

I think it is sheer wastage of money. For example, burning crackers as a tradition on Diwali is OK butspending
exorbitant amount of money on crackers is bad. Similarly giving gifts is OK on occasions butbuying very expensive
gifts just to show-off is bad.
74. Describe an occasion when you got positive

feedback for work that you did
Or Describe a time when someone gave you positive advice/suggestion about your work/study
You should say

- What you did?
- When was it
- Why you got positive feedback?
- How you felt about it?
• There are many situations we come across in life when we help others or take help from
others.
• I would like to talk about one such situation, when I helped others and received appreciation for
it.
• It was when my neighbour’s daughter needed help with her computer exam.
• She knows that I have good knowledge about computers and programming.
• She needed help with the basics of using computers.
• I agreed to give her lessons for one hour every day till her exams
• I taught her the theory and helped with the practical aspect too.
• She scored really well in her computer exam
132
• She and her family thanked me for helping her.
• They invited my family and me over for dinner at their house.
• They praised me a lot in front of my parents.
• My parents were very proud of me.
• I felt an immense sense of satisfaction that day as I was able to help someone achieve their
goals.
• That day I realised that giving help gives more satisfaction than receiving help.
• We have developed even stronger bonds with our neighbours after this incident.
• We had to go out of station for few days. Our neighbours took care of our pet Bruno.
( Another idea)
• There are many situations we come across in life when we help others or take help from
others.
• I would like to talk about one such situation, when I helped others and received
appreciation for it.
• It so happened that I was going to Ludhiana last month to attend a wedding.
• On the way there is a petrol pump.
• We saw that a lady was lying on the side and there was a lot of blood from her head.
• This accident had just happened 2 minutes before.
• She and her husband were on a scooter and as they were coming out of the petrol pump a
speeding car hit them and sped away.
• We parked our car on the side and came out to see if we could help.
• Her husband had minor injuries but she was in a bad shape.
• We immediately called 108 for help.
• It is the number of the free ambulance run by the government.
• Within fifteen minutes the ambulance was there.
• We did not move the lady because it could aggravate her injury.
• She was breathing properly but had a lot of pain.
• There was a first aid team headed by a doctor in the ambulance.
• The ambulance people picked her very carefully on a stretcher and immediately rushed her
to Phillaur Civil Hospital.
• We took the number of other relatives of the patient from her husband and called them.
• Actually he was also very shocked because of his wife’s condition.
• We took him to the Phillaur hospital in our car.
• Only after they were settled, we moved on.
• A few days later the person called to thank us and praised us a lot.
• He said that because of our timely help his wife was doing fine now.
Follow-ups
• Do you like helping others?

Yes, I like helping others. I feel very happy when I can be of any help to anyone. Whenever any
person comes to me for help, I do my best to help that person
• In your view should children be taught to help others?

Yes, children student should be taught to help others. They should be made to realize that if today
they will help others, then tomorrow they will get help if they need help.
133
• How can we encourage children to help others?

• We can encourage children to help others by setting an example. If they see their elders helpingothers
they will automatically learn to help others
• Do you think people are less willing to help others these days compared to the past?
Yes, I think so. Today’s life is very fast. People have become workaholics. They have
become selfcentered. They have no time to help others.
• Do people trust others as much as they used to in the past?

No, I do not think so. My parents and grandparents tell me that life was simpler and slower in the
past. People trusted each other. Today, it is very difficult to find people whom you can trust.
• How do people in your community help one another?

People in my community help each other in whatever way they can. Some people help by giving
money and some people help by giving their time.
• How do students such as high school students help each other?

Students help each other by sharing notes. Some help each other by sharing their conveyance.
• How can charitable organizations help people?

Charitable organizations help people in many ways. They help by giving money or by teaching
people some skills which can help them to earn a livelihood. For example, they open free sewing
schools and free computer education centres.
• What are some examples of such organizations in your country?

Being humane is one organization run by Salman Khan. Then there are the Jaycees, The Lions and
the Rotary club.
• What do you think are the benefits of having unpaid volunteer workers?
There are many benefits of having unpaid volunteer workers. Even with very little amount of
funding a lot of people can be helped.
• How do you think the volunteers themselves benefit?

Volunteers themselves benefit in many ways. If today they help for free, then tomorrow they can
get a paid job from the same network. They also will get an opportunity to sharpen their practical
skills.
• Should professionals be hired rather than using volunteer workers?

It depends on the work. For example, if free eye surgeries have to be done then it is better to hire
professionals. Otherwise voluntary workers can serve the
• Do you think international aid, for example from my national government to another is
important?
Yes, I think it is very important. It develops good relations between countries. But I think instead of
giving direct financial aid, the wealthy countries should aim to provide jobs and other facilities to
the poor countries.
134
• Can you give examples of international aid?

Pulse Polio is an example of international aid by the Rotary international club to eradicate polio
from all over the world.
75. Describe a quiet place you like to spend your

time in
a. Where it is
b. How you knew it
c. How often you go there
d. What you do there
e. And explain why you like the place
 It is very difficult to find quiet places in the fast-paced life of today.

 However, I would like to talk about a place where I go quite often and I find great peace there.
 The place I am referring to is a Sikh temple in my hometown, Gurdwara Sukhchainana Sahib.
 I go there once a week, sometimes with family and sometimes with friends.
 Sometimes we walk to the gurdwara, and sometimes we go by car. It is about 3 km from my
home.
 It is away from the main road, so it is very quiet there.
 Whenever I go there, I do circumambulation of the holy book inside the main hall, and pay
obeisance to the almighty.
 There is a well-maintained fishpond in the gurdwara, which has many species of fish.
 I just sit on the steps of the pond and listen to the holy chants going on all the time there.
 It gives me great peace of mind. makk@r|eLtS
 Sometimes I take some bread from home and feed the fish.
 There are two catfish among the other many, who seem to be talking to me.
 I know it is all my imagination, but I love it over there.
 I feel that the tempo of life has slowed down a bit.
 It is so relaxing to watch the movements of the fish in the water.
 This activity takes away all the physical and mental tiredness away from my body.
 I feel very light-hearted after that.
 Even though there is always a great rush in this temple, yet one can find peace and quiet over
there.
 Sometimes, I offer voluntary services in the community kitchen over there.
 Free food is offered to one and all in the community kitchen and this service is round the clock.
 I generally go there on weekends and spend a good two hours over there.
135
Follow-ups
1. Is it hard to find quiet places in cities?

Yes, it’s very hard to find quiet places in cities nowadays because of increasing urbanization
and cars on the street. I think that’s one of the major reasons people go on vacations.
Unfortunately, tourist spots are even more crowded.
2. Why is it quieter in the countryside?

The main reason is the lack of traffic and industries in cities. Moreover, there is a lot of
greenery which absorbs noise rather than reflecting it.
3. Why do people go to quiet places?

I think the main reason is so that can think peacefully and concentrate on their work. Noise is
distracting and it also reduces our efficiency.
4. Compared with young people, do old people prefer to live in quiet places?
I think both the old and young prefer quiet places but young people cannot enjoy the luxury
of living in quiet places like the countryside as they cannot get good jobs there.
5. Why do some people not like quiet places?

Some people do not like quiet places because they want fun and frolic all around them. They
want activity and noise all around them.
6. Do you know other quiet places?

There are many quiet places in the countryside. Many of my friends live in villages. Whenever
I go to their homes, there is no noise of traffic, and you can hear the chirping of the birds and
the rustling of leaves, which is very soothing to the ears.
7. Do you need a quiet place when you are working?

Yes, I do appreciate a quiet place when I’m working, but unfortunately, it is not always possible.
So I’ve got used to some amount of noise around me.
8. Why do people like to spend time in quiet places?

People like to spend time in quiet places because sometimes they want to be with themselves,
then they go to temples or quiet places, and feel relieved of their stress.
9. Do you know anyone who likes noise?

I have many friends who like listening to loud music. They say that it kills the background noise
of the vehicle
136
76. Describe a popular/well-known person in your country

- You should say:
- What he/she has done
- Why he/she is popular
- And explain how you feel about this person
• I belive that India is a land of celeberties.

• We have the second largest population in the world, so we have many popular
people as well.
• Most of the popular people in India are either movie actors, cricketers or
politicians.
• Today I would like to talk about a sportsperson who has been a constant source of
inspiration to me and the millions of other people in our country.
• His name is Virat Kohli and he is a cricketer.
• He plays as a right handed batsman
• He is just 33 years old and also one of the greatest players of Indian Cricket team.
• He is the lead batsman in all the three formats of the game i.e. One Day
Internationals, Test Cricket and Twenty Twenty matches
• He is also ranked as one of the world’s most famous athlete by the Forbes Magazine
• One of his greatest achievements was leading Indian Under 19 team to victory in
World cup tournament
• He Debuted (note the pronunciation - debued) for India when he was only 19 years
of age and since then he has never looked back and broken a lot of records.
• Currently he has the second highest number of International centuries in the game,
just behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar
• From a personality perspective, he is an aggressive player with a winning attitude
and strong commitment towards the game.
• I feel that he is the perfect example of the saying that hard work is the key to
success.
• One thing that a lot of people don’t know about Kohli is that he lost his father while
playing a test match for his state team but he still continued to bat and only after
he had saved his team from losing, he went for the cremation of his father.
Apart from sports, Virat Kohli also does a lot of charity through his foundation
which works for better education and healthcare of underprivileged children.
• Few years back he got married to famous Bollywood Actress Anushka Sharma.
• They got married in Italy and it was one of the biggest weddings of year 2017.
• I wish that he will win the world cup for India in 2023 and lead India to number
one spot in all formats of the game
137
Follow ups
1. What are the qualities of being popular?
A popular person is one who is a people’s person. He should be friendly and approachable by
people. He should be helpful and empathetic. He should be a good listener and try to lead by
example.
2. Do you know any popular star who likes helping other people?
Many celebs are attached to some charity organisations or are running their own NGOs. Salman
Khan has his charity “Being Human’, which is doing a lot for Charity.
3. Do you think children should imitate their idols?

It is not a question of whether they should. We have to realise that they will always imitate. So, the
onus is on the celebs to be good role models and do what is good to be imitated.
4. What influence do popular stars have on teenagers?

Teenagers want to be like their favourite celebs. They take them as their idol. They are influenced in
both good and bad ways. If their popular star is endorsing any product then teenagers blindly want
to buy that product even if they don't need it. If their popular star is doing something good, such as
helping the poor, teenagers also go out and do the same.
5. Do you think popular stars have more freedom or less freedom?

I think popular stars have to lead a life, which is open to public. They cannot be themselves and
enjoy life like commoners can. In that respect, their freedom is restricted.
77. Describe a time when you helped a child

You should say:
- When it was
- How you helped him/her
- Why you helped him/her
- And how you felt about it
• Helping others is a very good thing.

• I have given and received help many times.
• Here, I would like to talk about a situation, when I helped a kid in my neighbourhood.
• When I was in 12th, my neighbor’s son, Rahul, suffered a sprain in his ankle while playing
football in the school.
• He was advised strict bed rest for three weeks.
 Rahul studied in my school only and was in 7th Standard at that time.
• The final exams at our school were about to start in few weeks, near and Rahul’s mother
was very worried that he would fail this time if he did not attend school.
• So, I decided to help him as much as I could.
• Every day after school, I would go to his house and teach him Maths, Science and English
• His mother was so happy with my efforts that she would prepare nice shakes or something
to eat for me everyday.
• Perhaps, that was her way of thanking me.
138
• I used to reach home very late, but when I told the reason, my parents were OK with it.
• Then the exams came, and Rahul and I both scored above 80% marks.
• I realised that in helping him, I had helped myself even more because when I taught him
these subjects it helped me to clear my fundamentals, and I was able to score good in
myexams.
• After this incident, Rahul and I became good friends.
• I have realised that helping others gives much more satisfaction than becoming selfish and
looking after one’s own interests.
Follow Ups
1. Do you like helping others?

Yes, I do. I love helping others. I have realised it gives a lot of mental satisfaction and
happiness.
2. Should parents teach helping others to their children?

Yes, of course. Parents are responsible for bringing their children into this world, and so it is
their duty to make their children into responsible citizens of the future. Parents don't have
to do anything special to accomplish this. They just have to lead by example. Children will
automatically follow their footsteps. If all citizens are helpful and nice, then the whole world
would become a nice place to live in.
3. Do you think nowadays people do more good work as compared to the past?
I don't think so. Life in the past was simpler and slower. People helped each other a lot.
Now, everyone is in the rat race of money and materialism. No one has the time to help
others.
4. Will you help others in the future?

Yes, definitely. I believe that we must do unto others as we want them to do unto us. If I will
help others, only then I can expect help from others when I need it.
5. How do you encourage children to help others?

Nothing special is needed. Children are good observers and copy what their elders are
doing. All you have to do is help others and they will automatically follow.
6. How do world social organizations such as Red Cross collect their funds worldwide?
They do so by advertising their work. They organise activities and involve young people in
them. They also take the help of media.
7. Do small non-government organizations always need big organizations’ help or can they
collect funds themselves?
No, they do not always need big organisations help. If their projects are small, they can
manage on their own, otherwise they can seek help of their bigger counterparts.
8. Do you think people in India should help foreigners who are visiting India and who need
help? (Why? / Why not?)
139
Definitely, yes. India is known for its hospitality and helpful nature. Guests are treated like
Gods. Tourists are our guests. If tourists need help, they should be helped. They will take
back happy memories and more and more tourists will flock-in in the future.
9. What is the most important way for a country to help foreigners who are visiting the
country?
Foreigners can be helped by guiding them about our customs and traditions, so that they do
not unknowingly hurt anybody’s sentiments. They can be helped by providing them good
and hygienic food, which suits their taste. They can be helped by not fleecing them when
they buy some souvenirs.
10. Many people only look out for themselves and never think about helping others. What do
you think of this attitude?
I think such people are very short sighted. They do not thing that if they don't help others
they will also be left alone when they need help.
11. Do Indian people help others who need help, such as people in extreme poverty? (How?)
Yes, Indian people help others who are in extreme poverty. Some help directly and some
help through charity organisation.
78. Describe something that surprised you

You should say:
What it is
How you found out about it
What you did
And explain whether it made you happy
 Life is full of surprises, some good and some bad.

 However, today I would like to talk about a situation which was completely unexpected.
 In my 10th standard, I took part in an Maths Olympiad. 
 I am good at maths but I was nowhere near good enough to get a medal in the Olympiad. 
 I took part just for getting the participation certificate.
 Anyways, on the day of the Olympiad, I had a school exam as well for which I had to study the
whole night.
 The Olympiad was after my school exam from 2 to 5 PM.
 After my school exam, I was so tired that I wanted to skip the competition. 
 However, I went for it because my teachers convinced me that I should. 
 In that drowsy state, I did what I could.
 It was a multiple choice exam and I barely attempted 40 questions out of 100.
 For the rest of the questions, I just marked a random option as there was no negative marking.
 After a few days, I got a call from the Olympiad Organisers that I had won a Silver medal.
 At first, I thought it was a prank by my friends as they knew what was my state that day.
 After the call, I started thinking which of my friends was to blame and how I would get back at
him.
 To be honest, in my mind, I had even formed an idea who it was.
 However, the next day, my class teacher announced that I had won a medal in the competition in
140
the whole exam.
 I was in utter shock. 
 Nevertheless, I pretended that I had expected it all along.
 I didn’t tell anyone about it for many days.
 But I really loved the attention and respect, I got from my classmates.
 They thought I was a maths wiz.
 However, my happiness slowly transformed to guilt as I felt I didn’t deserve it.
 At last, when I shared with my friends that I think I just got lucky with guesswork, they didn’t
believe me at all. 
 
Follow Ups
• What are some things that made you feel happy?

Small things give me happiness. A pat on my back by my elders makes me happy. Food of my choice
makes me happy. Outings with my friends make me happy. If my parents are happy with me, I feel
happy.
• How would you define happiness?

Happiness is a state of mind. Different people have different concepts about happiness. For a nursery
student, being able to write ‘A’ properly can give happiness. A poor person may get happiness if he
wins a lottery. A person suffering from cancer can get happiness if a cure is found for his illness.
Parents feel happy if their children do well in school.
• Do you think artistic activities can make people happy?(Why/Why not)

Artistic activities can definitely make people happy. Art is a stress buster. It is a way of expression. It
is a way to communicate your inner feelings. Young people feel happy when they release their pent
up energy by dance. In a way they sweat out their stress. If stress is out, happiness is in.
• Do you think people who have more talent are happier than others? (Why/Why not) Happiness
has nothing to do with talent. Those who are talented and those who are not so talented can
be equally happy. Singing a song can give equal happiness to a talented singer and a
bathroomsinger. Talented people can make others happy with their talent
141
• .
79. Describe an occasion when you lost something

You should say:
What you lost
When and where you lost it
What you did to find it
And explain how you felt about it
 I am a very careless person and I have a bad habit of losing things.

 Today, I am going to talk about the most recent thing I lost- which was a pair of headphones.
 Last month, I travelled to Gangtok with my family for vacations.
 Our flight was at 6 AM and we had to reach the airport at 4 AM for check-in.
 Moreover, the flight was from Delhi airport, which is about 3 hours from my home.
 So, none of us got a proper night’s sleep the previous night.
 In fact, I barely slept for 2 hours.
 When we boarded the flight, I was barely able to keep my eyes open.
 As soon as I sat on the seat, I took off my headphones off and kept them in the seat pocket
in front of me.
 When I de-boarded, because of my sleepy state, I completely forgot about my headphones
and I got off without taking them.
 I remembered about them only when we reached the hotel.
 These headphones were Apple AirPods and they were quite costly.
 I had to try to get them.
 So I called the airline company and told them my flight number and my seat number.
 They told me that the airline had already departed back to Delhi from the airport, but they
will ask the ground staff to check for them at the airport.
 I was expecting them to call me, but I got no call back.
 Finally, I called them again the next day and enquired.
 I got the same response that the flight was in transit and they would ask the ground staff to
check when it lands.
 My whole vacation got ruined because of this and I wasn’t able to enjoy anything.
 In fact, I remained sullen throughout because of it.
 It has been a month since then.
 I didn’t get my headphones back and the airline company told me that a customer might
have taken them.
 However, the loss made me realise two things.
 First, I really need to be more careful and secondly, I should not materialistic losses spoil our
mood.
 I regret losing my headphones but I regret letting it ruin my mood much more than that. 
142
Follow Up Questions
1 What kinds of things do people usually lose?
The things people usually lose are the things they carry with them the most like keys, phones, wallets,
bags, sunglasses, jewelry, etc.
2 What do people often do when losing things?
People become nervous and frustrated after losing things. They start looking for them in a hurry. It’s
better to keep calm and try to remember where they could have kept them.
3 Is it an effective way to use rewards to find lost things?
Offering rewards for lost things may be a good incentive but it all depends on kind of lost thing. For
example, for something precious and priceless like pets, a reward is a great way to find them. For
expensive materialistic things like phones, wallets, jewelry, etc. a reward may not work as well.
4 What kinds of people may lose things often?
People who are not organized and have a lot of clutter usually lose things often. My brother keeps
losing his scooter keys as he puts them just about anywhere instead of putting them on their
designated spot - the hooks by our entryway.
80. Describe a creative person whose work you admire

You should say
- Who he/she is
- How do you know him/her
- What creative things he/she has done
- And explain why you think he or she is creative
• I think every person has some creative ability in him or her

• Some people show creativity in the kitchen,some in their kitchen gardens, some people show
their creativity in decorating their house, some people are creative in the drawings or
paintings they do, and some show creativity in the way they dress up.
• Here I would like to talk about a creative person who is my best friend Saloni’s mother
• Her name is Ramanpreet and she is in her early fifties.
• She’s always making something out of waste, things that we throw away.
• Whenever I go to her house she’s always making something or the other.
• Saloni tells me that she never sits idle
• She always has a project in her hands
• She has made many things out of waste papers.
• I’ve seen beautiful decoration pieces made of 3-D origami which her mother has made, and
they look spectacular
• I go to my friend’s house very often and every time I see something new.
• Last time I went she was making tote bags out of old clothes.
• The tote bag she was making looked superb and was very sturdy
143
• Her mother told me once that the making tote bags out of old clothes is in fact upcycling old
clothes and not recycling old clothes because the tote bags are used almost every day.
• She has gifted many tote bags to her relatives and friends, and everyone uses them every
single day
• Now that single use plastics have been banned everyone should get a tote bag while going to
the market
• I have also learnt many things from Saloni’s mother
• I used to admire Saloni for her creativity but I realise that all the creativity has come from her
mother.
• I think Saloni’s mother is very creative because she can put just anything at home to use.
• She has made flowerpots from old used bottles and oil cans
• Her whole house is decorated with beautiful things and none of these have been bought from
the market
• All these things are the result of her mother's creativity.
Follow-ups
1. Do you think you are a creative person?

Yes, I am a creative person, but all my creativity is for myself only. Every day I creatively mix and
match my old dresses and make them look new.
I also like to make pencil sketches out of my imagination and create different characters.
2. Is it good for children to learn arts?

Yes, it is very good for children to learn arts. Arts bring out their creativity and breaks the monotony
of tough academic studies. Arts also keep children in touch with their culture and tradition.
3. What kind of jobs require people to be creative? I think all jobs require people to be creative.
If people are not creative then their job may become dull and boring after just a few days. If any job
has to be done over and over again then some element of creativity has to be added to it. For
example, an engineer needs to think of new ways to do things, the plumber needs to learn new things
every day to make his work better and simpler, a carpenter needs to learn new ways of doing things
that can add grace to his work, a teacher has to bring up innovative methods to teach so that children
don’t get bored
4. Do you think leaders need to have creative ability?

Yes, I think leaders need to have creative ability. If they are not creative, people then stop following
them as they would appear boring to them, but if they add creativity to their work, to their talk, to
the way they do things, then they will keep having followers.
144
81. Describe a difficult decision that you once made.

You should say
- What the decision was
- When you made the decision
- How long did it take you to make the decision
- And explain why it was a difficult decision to make.
• I think each decision is difficult in its own way because we gain something and lose something
when we make any decision.
• And in today’s world, I think making decisions is all the more difficult because of the increasing
number of choices.
• One of the most crucial and difficult decisions of my life was when I had to decide which
stream to opt for during my senior secondary education.
• I made the decision around three years ago after graduating from high school.
• It took me nearly one month to make the decision.
• I was confused because I didn’t know what each stream entailed.
• During childhood, I never had a fixed dream job like others.
• Somedays, I wanted to become a doctor, then there was a phase I wanted to become an
astronaut.
• There was also a time, I wanted to become an actor.
• Some of my close friends were taking non-medical.
• So, I was also afraid that if I opted for some other stream, I would lose my friends.
• Every person I asked for advice gave me a different perspective.
• That was also a mistake I made, I asked too many people.
• Now, when I ask for advice, I only ask a few of my friends and my parents.
• Ultimately, my parents helped me make the decision.
• They asked me to take a 2 day exam, which tested my aptitude for different fields.
• After the test, they told me that I should consider only two things, my gut feeling and the
results of the test.
• I should ignore everyone else’s advice and after making the decision, I should not regret the
decision.
• Ultimately, I opted for commerce, and I am really glad that I made that choice.
Follow-ups
1. What decisions do people generally make in their daily life?

We are always making decisions in our life. People make decisions about small things like what to
eat, what to wear, when to do something, and what to watch. Our whole life is nothing but the
millions of decisions we take every day.
2. Which is easier, making a decision by oneself or making a decision after a group discussion?
It is definitely easier to make a decision after a group discussion because we have the advantage of
knowing different perspectives on the issue. However, I also believe that we should not get
influenced by others and listen to our gut feeling when finally making the decision.
145
3. Why are many young people unwilling to listen to their parent’s advice?
I think many young people think that their parent’s thinking might be outdated for today’s time. Also,
in general, young people by nature have a problem listening to figures of authority.
4. Why do middle-aged people tend to second guess their decision?

I think second guessing has nothing to do with age. We all tend to second guess our decisions when
it’s a difficult decision and when we are not confident about the decision. I think the best way to
avoid second guessing or rethinking the decision is to limit the choices and discuss it with close friends
and family members.
82. Describe something that was broken in your home and

then repaired
- You should say:
- What it is
- How it was broken
- How you got it repaired
 Nowadays, I normally buy a newer model rather than getting old things repaired.
 However, recently our washing machine broke down and as it was under warranty, we decided
to get it repaired.
 The machine just stopped working.
 When we switched it, the lights didn’t come on.
 At first, we thought that there might be a problem with the socket.
 However, when we plugged another electronic device into the socket it worked.
 That's when we knew the machine was broken for sure.
 I am not sure of the reason but I think it was voltage fluctuation.
 It rained pretty heavily and due to the rain, there was a voltage fluctuation in our area.
 The fluctuation probably caused burned one of the electronic circuits in the machine.
 We had purchased the machine just a few months before that incident, so it was under
warranty.
 We called the company and they scheduled a technician visit to our house.
 The repairman told us that the main circuit was burnt, but he was also not sure what caused
that.
 He said that the part was made to order, so ordered the part and told us that when he receives
the part, he will come again and replace it.
 I thought it would be quick but it took a whole week.
 Due to corona, there were shipment delays.
 Electronic equipments do break down.
 So, it wasn’t a big deal.
 But the time we had to wait to get it repaired was much more than we had anticipated.
 The repairman had warned us that it might take some time, but even he didn’t think it would
146
take a whole week.
 The laundry just piled up and we just waited.
 However, one good thing that happened was that I took out some clothes that I hadn’t worn
in a long time.
 My favourite clothes were sitting in the laundry and I had no option.
 Two days after the repairman came and fixed it, we got an apology email from the company.
 We all really appreciated that. I don’t think the company was at fault and yet they apologised.

1. Are IT-related jobs valued more by society?

I don’t think they are valued more or less than other jobs. But yes the significance of IT jobs has
increased in recent years as our dependence on technology has increased.
2. Is the quality of products worse than before?

I definitely think the quality has fallen in recent years. This is based on my personal experience. The
first refrigerator my parents bought still works fine but the ones we bought after that broke down
after three-four years and this is true for nearly every electronic product. I think the technology is
becoming more and more complex but that has taken a toll on product durability.
3. What kinds of things do people like to repair by themselves?

I think YouTube and Google have made it possible to repair anything and everything. Recently my
mom fixed her sewing machine by watching a YouTube video. I have fixed my mobile phone and
laptop many a times by just searching on google.
4. Why do people like to get their mobile phones repaired in specialised stores?
I think the main reason is that they don’t want to void the phone’s warranty. I think most companiesmention that
if the phone is opened by non-registered technician or store, the warranty would not be applicable. I think it is a
tactic by companies to ensure that they can charge people heavily for parts, which can be repaired cheaply
147
83. Describe an ambition that you haven't achieved

- You should say:
- What it is
- Why you haven't achieved it
- What you did
 I have many ambitions in my life.

 But the one ambition that I am working on right now is to go for higher education in Canada.
 Earlier I didn’t have any plans to go abroad, but a conversation with a friend who went to
Canada changed my opinion.
 He told me about the difference in the quality of education and the work opportunities
available there.
 So after completing my senior secondary education, I decided that it would be the best
opportunity for me.
 There are two main requisites to get admission in a good Canadian college.
 The first is good grades in senior secondary education.
 My grades are pretty satisfactory. So, I didn’t have to worry about that.
 The second is a good score in English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
 I learned that Canadian colleges give preference to IELTS and hence I am taking the IELTS exam.
 For the past two-three months, I have been practicing for the exam.
 I ordered the Cambridge books and started my preparation from them.
 There is a lot of free material available on the internet.
 So, I used that to prepare myself.
 I used to practice for about 8 hours every day.
 I used to try to cover every IELTS module twice.
 For listening and reading, I didn’t need much help.
 I just practised the test papers and looked at my mistakes after that, so I don’t repeat them.
 For speaking and writing, I joined a coaching institute and their teachers helped me a lot.
 I hope to get good bands, so I can move ahead to the next step, which is to apply for an offer
letter from a Canadian College.
 I don’t think it has been an easy journey.
 English is not my first language and I have had to practise really hard.
 But I hope the fruits of the efforts will definitely be worth the struggle.
148
1 What ambitions do children usually have?

Children have many ambitions. The first ambition is mainly about the profession- in childhood,
everyone has an ambition to do something noble like becoming a doctor or do something exciting
like becoming a pilot or an astronaut. Then, children also have an ambition of earning huge amounts
of money.
2 Why are some people very ambitious in their work?

I think it’s just a part of their nature. They are ambitious because they want to grow and achieve
something in their life. They want to be known for their work.
3 Why don't some people have dreams?

I think everyone has certain dreams. It’s just that some people are too lazy to work for their dreams.
On the other hand, there are others who can do anything for their dreams and it shows.
4 How do people balance work and life?

I think everyone does it in their own way. My mother switches off her work mobile phone after 5 PM.
Some people do it by taking regular breaks when they only focus on their family. I think it is something
almost every person tries to do and fails. In recent years, even governments are taking steps like
limiting work hours so people are able to do so.
149
84. Describe a time when you organized a happy event

successfully
- You should say:
- What the event was
- How you prepared for it
- Who helped you to organize it
- And explain why you think it was a successful event
 I love to organise events.

 On July 16th last year, it was my mother’s 50 birthday and I wanted to do something special
for her.
 However, due to the pandemic, most celebrations were forbidden.
 We were all cooped up inside our houses.
 I decided to give her a surprise online party.
 I asked my sister for advice on how we can make it special.
 We have a large family and we asked every one in the family, all our cousins, uncles, and aunt
to record something for my mother.
 It could be anything, there were no restrictions.
 One of my cousins recorded a dance performance, an uncle wrote a beautiful poem, my
grandpa sang a beautiful song in Gujrati.
 After receiving all the videos, we combined them into one big video.
 It was not easy though, we had to send reminders and message some of my aunts and uncles
again and again.
 Some even sent it one day before the birthday, but they all finally did it.
 Moreover, It was all hard to remind them to keep it a secret.
 We were sure one of our aunts or uncles would spill the beans.
 Thankfully no one did.
 Then, we organised a special get together on zoom for the family.
 This was also hard because some of our relatives live in a different time zone.
 We wanted to choose a time everyone could be available.
 Here we failed to some extent, but some of our relatives couldn’t be online at that time.
 The birthday fell on a weekday, so it was just not possible.
 On her birthday, I ordered her favourite- truffle cake.
 And then when everyone joined the zoom meeting, I handed my mom the phone and told her
someone wants to wish her a happy birthday.
 She was shocked to see all the family on the meeting.
 Then, she cut the cake, while I held the phone and everyone wished her happy birthday.
 Finally, for the big reveal, we played the video on the TV and recorded her reactions while
watching the video and we telecast it on the meeting on a split-screen.
 One screen showing her reactions and the other showing the video.
 My mother had happy tears in her eyes by the end of it all and I think that alone made it a
successful event.
 However, others told me it was such wonderfully organised and it was so nice meeting
everyone online. Even after the video was over, everyone stayed on the meeting and we kept
150
on talking and discussing everyday life.
1 How can parents help children to be organized?

I think parents should have a daily schedule for their children. They should also allot every task a fixed
amount of time. For example, they can ask them to write each task on the calendar and write how
much time they expect to give to it alongside it. Then, there should be rewards and punishments for
finishing or not finishing the tasks.
2 On what occasions do people need to be organized?

I don’t think people need an occasion to be organised. We should try to be organised all the time.
When we are organised we tend to save time and do things faster. Also, being organised creates a
good impression on others.
3 Does everything need to be well prepared?

I think all the important things should be well prepared, but the minor details can be left out. It's like
a speech, we prepare the main ideas but we leave some liberty to make some changes with the minor
details. Preparing everything in advance would be very exhausting if not impossible.
4 Do people need others' help when organizing things?

Well, it depends upon the task. If we are organising a big event, we definitely need help. For example,
wedding planners have a whole team of 10-15 members because a single person cannot manage
everything. But, if there are small things like a small family get together, I think a person can organise
it on their own.
151
85. Describe something you received for free

- You should say:
- What it was
- Who you received it from
- Where you received it
 I have received many free things in my life, but I would like to talk about a free coffee which I
got on my birthday.
 When I visit Delhi or Chandigarh I love to visit Starbucks as I love their coffee.
 During one of my first few visits, one of the salespersons in Starbucks told me to get a
Starbucks Card as I am a regular coffee drinker.
 She told me that the card was free and there are some amazing perks for regular coffee
drinkers.
 I was sceptical at first, as there is no Starbucks in my city and I was wondering how many times
would I actually drink one.
 But after some persuasion by the salesgirl, I got one, nonetheless.
 One of the benefits was a free coffee during the birthday month.
 I didn’t know this.
 So, by chance, I visited a Starbucks in June, which is my birthday month.
 When I was about to pay, the salesperson asked me if I was due a free coffee because of my
birthday month and should he make this order the free one.
 I wasn’t expecting it but more than that I didn’t ask for it, he offered it.
 I then inquired whether it could be any coffee and if I could make modifications like adding
whip cream.
 When he said, I told them to make it a mocha and add whip cream.
 I normally don’t make these additions because their coffee is already very expensive.
 I thought there would be no better opportunity to try it.
 So, I went for it.
 I really enjoyed the coffee.
 If I would have paid for it, it would have cost me around Rs 400.
 It wasn’t a big amount but it made me so happy like I had won a lottery.
 That day, I got a card made for my mother and my sister as well.
 However, then the salesperson told me that the free birthday month coffee is applicable only
when we buy coffee worth Rs 5000 in a year.
 I don’t think they will drink so much coffee, but I have already started looking forward to next
June and the next free coffee. 
152
1 Do you think people should pay for higher education? Why?

I definitely think that people should pay for higher education themselves. I think people should only
go for higher education when they are really interested. Paying it for ourselves means- we do it only
when we really want to. At the same time, I also feel that government should provide scholarships
and loans to poor students so that they don’t leave education because of money.
2 Is it good or bad for people to have a free education in the future?

I think free primary education is good because everyone should get primary education but I think
higher education should be paid for by the student themselves. Actually, I don’t think it is possible
for the government to fund higher education for everyone.
3 What free gifts do companies usually give to their customers?

In India, I think companies give small gifts like pens, calendars and cups, etc to customers. They are
free gifts for customers but in a way, they are advertising for the company. Then, there are also deals
like buy one- get one free, which are technically gifts, but in a way - the prices factor in the free gift
such that the company is still in profit.
4 Why do customers like to receive free gifts from companies?

I think there is no better feeling than getting something for free. It is just human nature, when we
get something for free- we feel lucky. When we buy something, we are always thinking, whether we
could have gotten something better for the same price, whether we were cheated, but when we get
something for free, we feel like we couldn’t get a better deal because what’s better than free.
86. Describe a famous person that you are interested in

- You should say:
- How you know about this person
- What sort of life they had before they became famous
- How this person became famous
- And explain why you like this person
• I would like to meet many famous people but here I am going to talk about India’s EX Prime
Minister Manmohan Singh
OR
• A person I admire the most is our ex-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
• He was born in Gah village, located in Punjab province of Pakistan and was the first Sikh Prime
Minister of India.
• He is a dynamic and development-oriented leader.
• He served as a member of the parliament, representing the state of Assam in the Upper House
of the Parliament.
• He had been the member of parliament for five consecutive terms.
• The reason why I admire him is that his life shows how an ordinary boy from a deprived(poor)
class could reach the highest levels of the nation.
153
• It is all because of his hard work and determination.
• During his tenure as fiancé minister in the 1990’s he opened up India’s economy to Foreign
investments which helped a lot in India’s economic growth
• He is one of the most influential architects of India's socialist economy, and helped it to
became a capitalistic one.
• I believe he helped establish India’s presence among the developed nations.
• He is also famous for the Indo-US civilian nuclear agreement which gave India access to
nuclear fuel and technology.
• His focus on development, eye for detail and efforts to bring a qualitative difference in the
lives of the poorest of the poor have made him a popular and respected leader across.
• He is a role model for one and all.
• I would like to meet him and seek his blessings.
• I would like to get his autograph.
• Every country needs people like him to take their nation to the top.
1. What type of people are famous in your country?

In my country cricketers very famous, Bollywood stars are very famous and at the same time, some
people who have an outstanding achievement or have accomplished something in life become public
figures. Most of these people are role models and many people dream of becoming like them. So,
people who can attract large crowds become famous in my country.
2. How do people become famous nowadays?

People become famous when they have achieved something that other common people have not
done so far. Some of the movie stars are very famous because they have a box office hit. Some
singers are famous because of their singing talent. Politicians become famous for their oratory skills.
There is another category of famous people that become famous among people by their wrong
deeds.
3. What is the difference between people who were famous earlier and who are famous now?
A few decades ago people were famous who had achieved something or had hit upon an invention.
Some people were famous for their sacrifice or for their giving nature for example Mother Teresa.
Nowadays many people are famous just because they are children of famous people, their dressing
sense or singing talents.
4. What qualities do famous people have in common

All the famous people have a public appeal they have a talent or charm that can attract crowds.
Some famous people are very intelligent like the famous mathematician Shakuntala Devi. But one
thing is sure, a famous person must always be humble and grounded only then he will retain the
fame.
5. What do you think about nepotism amongst the famous people

Nepotism is a practice to use power to favour their near and dear ones. Recently nepotism debate
was ignited in the Bollywood after the death of Sushant Singh Rajput. Basically, nepotism was always
present among the famous people because many politicians or celebrities wanted to use their
154
influence and give a platform to their children to achieve success. Even in the ancient times the kings
and the Nawabs used to have their near and dear ones on the highchairs So nepotism was always
present wherever there was fame
87. Describe a toy you liked in your childhood

- You should say:
- What kind of toy it is
- When you received it
- How you played it
• I had many toys in my childhood but here I am going to talk about my electric toy car.
• My father gifted it to me on my 11th birthday.
• I used to spend hours playing with it.
• I was greatly fascinated by it
• It was red in colour
• It worked with four pen torch batteries fixed in a box under the car
• When I switched it on, it would move in all directions
• If there was an obstacle on the way then the car could change directions
• Along with that it had lights, which flickered at times.
• I was so fascinated by this car that I used to finish its batteries very soon.
• I used to show it to my friends with pride.
• None of my other friends had such a beautiful toy car.
• I just loved it when I saw the jealous look in their eyes.
• I remember, once I took it to school in my bag.
• When I came home I got a big spanking from my mother.
• I was very possessive about my car and never used to let anyone touch it.
• Even though I don’t play with the car any more I still have it in my room
• Its colour has faded now but it has emotional value for me.
• That is why I have never thought of giving it away to my younger cousins.
• It brings back nostalgic memories of my childhood
1. What is the difference between girls’ and boys’ toys?

Traditionally, girls used to like toys like dolls, kitchen sets, fairies, and butterflies. Boys normally
preferred aggressive toys like guns, cars, and things to build and things, which make a lot of noise.
The other difference was that boys normally picked blue, brown and green. Girls, on the other
hand, chose pink with a tinge of purple. These differences have been disappearing over the years.
2. Do you think toys really help in children’s development?

Yes, toys play a big role in children’s development. It helps to develop their motor and sensory
skills and also their cognitive abilities. At the same time, it also leads to their social development,
especially when they play with other children. Children also learn responsibility when parents ask
155
them to properly store their toys.
3. Does modern technology have an influence on children’s toys?

Yes, modern technology has a big influence on toys. Both the type of toys available and the
children’s preferences for toys have changed over time. Today robots, app controlled cars are
more popular. Board games are becoming less and less popular. Simple action figures and dolls
have also become much more detailed.
4. Have we lost our hand skills such as sewing?

Sewing by hand has definitely become a thing of the past. Sewing machines have come up in a
big way. But manual sewing machines are still used. These have a hand pedal or a foot pedal. My
mother has a fully automatic computerised sewing machine, but she has to operate it herself
when she sews.
5. What toys are popular with kids in India today?

Many types of toys are popular in India. Children like wooden toys and other mechanical toys, but
electronic toys are fast gaining popularity.
6. In general, do children today have many toys?

Yes, they do. When I look at the children around me, I feel that they have too many toys. I never
had so many. I think parents, today, are substituting the time they have to spend with children by
giving them more and more toys.
7. Do you think playing with electronic toys has a good influence on kids?
Yes, electronic toys introduce children to technology. They increase the strategy forming skills.
They are good, but when children spend too much time on electronic games, they forget
everything else and then these become negative.
8. Do you think there are some toys that are only suitable for girls and some that are only suitable
for boys?
Not any more. Gender differences are disappearing fast and boys and girls play with the same
type of toys nowadays.
9. Which do you think is better, for children to play with toy alone or with other kids?
It is definitely better for children to play with other kids. They learn caring and sharing and many
other social skills when they play with others.
10. Do you think parents should encourage their children to share their toys with other kids?
Yes, definitely. They should encourage their children to share their toys with other children. In this
way they will not need to have many toys.
11. How are toys today different to toys of the past?

Today we have electronic toys, whereas earlier we had wooden toys and plastic toys.
12. How do you think toys will change in the future?

What the future holds in store for us no one can tell, but as far as I can see, there will be more
156
and more electronic gadgets in the future, which the children will play with as toys.
13. If you were going to give a present to a child, what would you give him?
I would give a child, a book as a gift. He may not like it at first, but it will shortly develop the habit
of reading one day. I believe that books are the best gifts. They remain with that person forever.
14. What kinds of gifts do parents give to their young children?

Pendants give all sorts of gifts to their children. They know the requirement of their children and
give gifts accordingly. Mostly parents give educational gifts, from which the child can learn
something in a fun way.
15. Is it good to give children too many presents such as too many toys?
No it is definitely not good to give a child too many presents. Children do not appreciate the value
of toys when they are given too many toys. It also decreases their imagination and creativity. They
also do not learn sharing with other children.
16. Some parents don’t spend much time with their child but instead give the child gifts as a way to
show their love. Do you think this is good enough?
No I do not think this is good enough. The time been didn’t spend with the children is more important than the
gifts they give them
88. Describe an exciting book that you enjoy reading.

You should say:
- When you read it
- What kind of book it is
- What is about
- And explain why you think it is exciting
 I read a lot of books.

 However, the very first book that I read is also one that I still enjoy reading a lot.
 It is none other than the first book of the Harry Potter series, ‘Harry Potter and the
Philosopher’s Stone’.
 It was gifted to me by my mother on my 10th birthday.
 Initially, I was really mad at her, because I wanted a recently released video game
 She told me that she would get me the video game as well but if I gave the book a chance first.
 So, I reluctantly picked up the book and started reading.
 I read just 10 pages and I was hooked.
 I remember I used the word unputdownable to describe the book to one of my friends, a few
days later.
 I started at 9 PM at night and I finally slept at 7 AM the next morning after finishing the last
page.
 Fortunately, it was the summer vacation or my parents would have taken the book away from
me at night and made me go to bed.
 Harry Potter needs no introduction - it is a story about magic, a story of good vs. evil.
 However, for me, it is also a coming-of-age story.
157
 It is a story about a boy becoming a man.
 Everything about the book is perfect, the world setting, the characterization, the magic
system.
 More than that, the book isn’t afraid of pulling punches.
 When the protagonist falls into a pit, he doesn’t come out unscathed, he gets hurt just like a
normal human being.
 Good characters die, they lose, the road to victory isn’t a straight one.
 Every fantasy book is about good vs evil, but the exciting books are those, where you cannot
predict what would happen next and Harry Potter is one of the best examples of that.
 And in the end, it would always be the book that got me into the habit of reading.
 So, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
 Even now I randomly pick up the book once a month and read two three chapters.
And I don’t know why but there is always something I feel that I hadn’t read before
Follow-ups
1. Do you prefer books or movies?

I think movies can never capture the detail and the emotions that books can. So, I always prefer
reading books to watching movies. But, then again, it’s not easy to find time to read books. So,
sometimes I still watch movies.
2. Do you think it is important to read the book before watching the movie version of it?
No, not really. Some movie adaptations are really good. A lot of my friends haven’t read the Game of
Throne series, but they still enjoyed the TV adaptation. Ultimately, it’s the person’s preference and
availability of time.
3. Do boys and girls like the same kinds of books?

I have seen some differences in the magazines boys and girls read. For example, I have seen a lot of
girls reading fashion magazines and very rarely in the case of boys. However, in the case of books, I
don’t think there is any particular difference.
4. What kind of books do Indian people like to read?

I think reading preference doesn’t depend upon nationality. It depends upon personal preference
and the book itself. For example, Harry Potter is famous all over the world, because it is a fabulous
book. I think it was meant for children, but I have seen a lot of adults calling themselves Potterheads.
If you aspire to score 7 or more, do browse our social
media platforms to get FREE counseling and
updated material, which also includes techniques
& strategies related to all modules.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086456179424
https://youtube.com/@kangarooz_muktsar
https://www.instagram.com/kangarooz_m...

Cue-Cards Jan-April PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Cue-Cards Jan-April PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Cue-Cards Jan-April PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

KANGAROOZ

IMMIGRATION & ENGLISH SCHOOL

SPEAKING PART – 2 BOOKLET

IELTS | PTE | SPOKEN | CD-IELTS

2. Describe a daily routine that you enjoy

3. Describe a place you visited where the air was polluted

4. Describe an actor or actress whom you admire

5. Describe a person you would like to study or work with

6. Describe a time when you were late

7. Describe an advertisement that you don’t like

8. Describe a person who inspired you to do something interesting

10. Describe a piece of good news you heard from others

11. Describe a place where there was a lot of noise

12. Describe something you taught to your friend/relative

15. Talk about an interesting old person you met recently

16. Describe a piece of technology that you find difficult to use

18. Describe an unusual meal that you had

19. Describe an achievement/success you are proud of

28. Describe a character from a movie

30. Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded

33. Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college

35. Describe a photo that you took and are proud of

36. Describe a problem you had while shopping online or in a store

38. Describe a time when you needed to search for information

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

40. Describe a time you made a decision to wait for something

41. Describe a time when you received money as a gift

42. Talk about a TV show you like to watch

43. Describe a person who you believe dresses well

44. Describe a person who likes to grow plants

45. Describe a time you had a disagreement with someone

46. Describe a house/apartment that someone you know lives in

47. Describe a place where you go to do outdoor activities or play a sport

49. Describe a time when someone asked for your opinion

50. Describe a time when you missed an appointment

51. Describe a time you were very busy

52. Describe a childhood friend

55. Describe a movie you would like to watch again

56. Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic jam

57. Describe an invention that has changed how people live

59. Talk about an important river or lake in your country or hometown

61. Describe a positive change in your life

62. Talk about an important/Special event you celebrated

63. Describe a time when you observed the stars

65. Describe a friend you like to talk with

66. An interesting neighbor

67. Describe a competition you would like to take part in

69. Describe something that helps you concentrate

70. Describe an activity you do to keep fit

71. Describe something that saves your time

72. Describe something important that you lost

75. Describe a quiet place you like to spend your time in

76. Describe a popular/well-known person in your country

77. Describe a time when you helped a child

78. Describe something that surprised you

79. Describe an occasion when you lost something

80. Describe a creative person whose work you admire

81. Describe a difficult decision that you once made

83. Describe a time when you organized a happy event successfully