MakkarIELTS Solved Cue Cards and Follow Ups Jan-April 2017-2

2017
makkarIELTS Speaking
Cue Cards & Follow Ups
(Part 2 & 3) – Jan’17 to
Apr’17
Version 3.0 – 12 Jan’17
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makkarIELTS Speaking Cue Cards & Follow Ups (Part 2 & 3) – Jan’17 to
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Apr’17

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Apr’17
Contents
1. Two People from the Same Family ....................................................................................... 8
Cue Card 1: Follow up Questions ............................................................................................... 9
2. An interesting neighbour ....................................................................................................... 13
Cue Card 2: Follow Up Questions ........................................................................................... 14
3. An event in the history of your country .......................................................................... 16
Cue Card 3: Follow Up Questions ........................................................................................... 17
4. A plan of yours not related to work or study ................................................................ 18
Cue Card 4: Follow ups ................................................................................................................ 19
5. A café you visited........................................................................................................................ 20
Cue Card 5: Follow Ups ................................................................................................................ 20
6. A time you spent with a child ............................................................................................... 23
Cue Card 6: Follow Ups ................................................................................................................ 24
7. A polite person ........................................................................................................................... 29
Cue Card 7: Follow ups ................................................................................................................ 30
8. A tall building ............................................................................................................................... 34
Cue Card 8: follow-up questions ............................................................................................. 35
9. An Advertisement ..................................................................................................................... 38
Cue Card 9: Follow-up questions ........................................................................................... 39
10. A Website ................................................................................................................................... 44
Cue Card 10: Follow-up questions ........................................................................................ 45
11. A small business ..................................................................................................................... 47
Cue Card 11: Follow Up Questions ......................................................................................... 48
12. An important equipment ................................................................................................... 51
13. A wild animal ........................................................................................................................... 53
14. A park you visited and liked ............................................................................................. 59
15. A speech you heard .............................................................................................................. 61
Cue Card 15 Follow Ups .............................................................................................................. 62
16. A book you would like to read again ........................................................................... 64
Cue Card 16: Follow Ups ............................................................................................................. 64
17. A person you met and would like to know more about ..................................... 67
Cue Card 17: Follow ups: ............................................................................................................ 67
18. Describe a village near your hometown .................................................................. 68

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Apr’17
Cue Card 18: Follow ups ............................................................................................................. 68

19. Describe a gift you gave someone ............................................................................ 69
Cue Card 19 Follow ups ............................................................................................................... 70
20. Describe a situation when you were not allowed to use cell phone ........ 72
21. How you prepared for a happy event ........................................................................ 74
22. Favourite weather ................................................................................................................ 77
23. A shop that has opened in your hometown ........................................................... 79
24. A well paid job ........................................................................................................................ 81
Cue card 24 Follow up questions: .......................................................................................... 82
25. An incident or situation, which made you laugh ................................................. 83
26. Describe a popular place where people like to go swimming ..................... 86
27. Describe an occasion when you received a good service from a
restaurant or a shop ......................................................................................................................... 88
Follow ups cue card 27 ................................................................................................................ 89
28. Describe a new/exciting activity that you want to try for the first time .... 90
Follow Up Questions ..................................................................................................................... 90
29. Describe your favorite movie ......................................................................................... 91
30. Describe a kind of foreign food you have had ..................................................... 93
31. Describe a bicycle/motorbike/car trip that is interesting ................................. 95
32. Describe a place in other countries where you would like to work for a
short time ................................................................................................................................................ 97
33. Describe a time you had good experience in the countryside .................... 99
Follow Up Questions .................................................................................................................. 100
34. Describe a decision made by others that you disagreed with ................. 101
35. Describe an activity that is a little expensive ..................................................... 103

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Apr’17
Expensive activity ............................................................................................................................ 104

36. Describe a family member who has had important influence on you .. 105
37. Describe a famous person that you are interested in ................................... 107
38. Describe a family member who made you proud ........................................... 109
39. Describe a garden you have visited ....................................................................... 110
40. Describe a holiday you want to go on in the future ........................................ 112
41. Describe a time you needed to use imagination ............................................. 114
42. Describe an important place like (stadium, swimming pool] in your city
115
43. Describe an interesting house or apartment you visited ............................. 116
44. Describe an interesting song ...................................................................................... 118
45. Describe a method that helps you save money ............................................... 120
46. Describe a time when you missed an appointment ....................................... 122
47. Describe a person that just moved home ............................................................ 124
48. Describe a quiet place .................................................................................................... 126
49. Describe a place where you relaxed ...................................................................... 128
50. Describe an area of science that you are interested in {such as physics,
mathematics) ..................................................................................................................................... 130
51. Describe a special meal you have had ................................................................. 132
52. Describe a team project for study or entertainment ...................................... 135

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Apr’17
53. Describe a time you were very busy ...................................................................... 137

54. Describe an interesting or unusual thing you did recently {in your free
time). 139
55. Describe a time that you were waiting for something ................................... 141

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Apr’17
1. Two People from the Same Family

Describe two people who you know from the same family.
- Who these two people are
- How you know these people
- How much these two people have similar personalities (characters) / how much
they look similar
- And explain how (or, how well) the two people get along with each other.
 I know many people and many families.

 But, here I would like to talk about two people of the same family.
 They live in my neighbourhood.
 I have known them since my childhood.
 They are my friends too. Their names are Jyoti and Simran.
 They are sisters, in fact they are twins.
 They spend all their time together.
 In fact they seem inseparable.
 I chose to talk about them because they are my good friends.
 They are 22 years old.
 They both have long hair, fair complexion and sparkling black eyes.
 Jyoti has a mole on her chin and this is the only point of difference in them.
 They look as similar as two peas in a pod.
 But when you come to know them better, you find that they are poles apart in nature. Jyoti
is a very polite and down-to-earth person whereas Simran is very blunt and rude at times.
 Despite their differences, they get along very well together.
 Jyoti is an extrovert and likes socialising.
 She is also very helpful.
 Whenever I am in any need I go to her.
 She never lets me down.
 In fact she helps anyone who goes to her for any help.
 Simran, on the other hand, is an introvert.
 She is very quiet and remains in her own shell.
 She gives the impression of being selfish.
 But as I know her well, I know that she is just the quiet types.
 She likes her own company and can sit alone for hours.
 I sometimes wonder how two identical twins could be so different in nature.
 I like both of them, but I have a better rapport with Jyoti.
 We were in the same class.
 We used to go to school together.
 Both were good at studies.
 They did their masters in computer applications.
 Now both are working in a multinational company.

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Apr’17
Cue Card 1: Follow up Questions
Family Life
1. Have there been any changes to family life in your country in the past 20 or 30 years?
Yes, the last two or three decades have seen a lot of changes to family life. Earlier we had
joint families but now nuclear families are the norm. In most families both parents are
working, and children are left on their own after school hours.
2. Do you think modern families are the same as families in the past?
(Same as above)
3. What effects do you think this might have in the future?

This might have great effects in the future. The bonding with grandparents will decrease.
Children would not know how to get along with relatives. Because of less care and
affection children might go on the wrong path.
4. How do you think family life might evolve in the future?

What the future holds for us is difficult to predict, but as far as I can see, people are
becoming aware and are realizing the importance of family. I cannot see people going
back to the joint family system, but close-knit extended families will become very common.
Some people are also downshifting, which means that they are not accepting any
promotions, so as to give more time to their family.
5. Compared to 20 or 30 years ago, do people today spend more time together as a family,
or less time?
Unfortunately, nowadays, people are spending much let less time together as a family
then in the past. What time they’re spending together is also very superficial, because
everyone is busy on their own electronic gadgets, and they’re hardly talking to each other.
It is only when they go for outings as a family that didn’t spend sometime together and
come to know each other.
6. Would you say family is important to most people?

Yes, family is important to most people, because most people realize that friends can be
fair-weather friends, but family will be with them through their thick and thin. There is a
very famous Chinese adage that ‘in times of test family is best’
7. Is family important to you?

Yes, family is very important to me. I love my family a lot. I cannot place my friends above
my family.
8. Do young people like to spend time with their parents?

It is a difficult question to answer, because we cannot generalize it for all young people.
Most young people like to spend time with their friends more than with their parents. They
feel more comfortable with their friends, cause their line of thought is similar. When they
are with their parents, they have differences of opinions, which we call the generation gap.
9. For young people, which are more important, their friends or their parents?
Both are important, but for most young people friends are more important.
10. Do you think the role of women (wife/mother) in the family has changed in the past few
decades?
Yes, the role of women has definitely changed in the past few decades. Now, women also
go out to work, and so the role in the family has also begun to be shared by both husband
and wife.
11. Which do you think is better, to have a small family or a big family? (I.e., the number of
children)
It’s better to have a small family, because then you can look after your family better. You
can provide the best education to children, and you can spend more time with them.

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Apr’17
12. Have family values changed much in the past few decades?
Family values have changed a lot in the past few decades. Joint families have almost
disappeared. People live self-centered and isolated lives. Face to face communications
have become rare.
13. Do you think it's good for older members of the family (grandparents) to live with their
sons or daughters?
I definitely think it is good for the older members to live their sons or daughters. They
could look after the grandchildren, and teach them moral values. Grandchildren love the
affection showered on them by grandparents. Grand parents also spend happy time with
them and not feel socially isolated. It would be a win-win situation for all.
14. Do you think there are any benefits from having older members of the family living with
(grandparents) the younger members?
(same as above)
15. What do family members in India do together?

Family members do a lot of things together. They eat together, watch TV together,
entertain guests together, go for outings together, cook together, do shopping together
and do many other things together.
16. If a child has no brothers or sisters, (a single child), do you think they can communicate
with their parents better or not as well as a child from a big family?
An only child has only his parents to communicate with, so it can be said that he can
communicate with his parents better. However, I do not think that being an only child has
anything to do with the ability to communicate. It all depends on the parents.
17. Do (young) people today still like living with their parents as much as young people did
years ago?
Today’s young people like to live alone, because they like their independence. They do
not like the old ways of their parents.
18. What are some of the problems that people have when they live alone?
There are many problems they face when they live alone. They feel lonely when they
have some health problems. They have to lock their homes properly when they go out.
Their children are not looked after well when they are at work. They may mismanage their
money without any guidance, and land up in debt.
19. What are the benefits (and possible disadvantages) of living in extended families?
Extended families are a blessing. In such families, people live in nuclear units but are very
connected to each other. They have no disadvantages. They have all the advantages of
nuclear and joint families.
20. Do you think the government should be responsible for teaching people about parenting?
(teaching parental skills)
Good parenting is a challenge, but I don’t believe that government is responsible for
teaching people about parenting. The government can however aware people to join
parenting classes.
21. When both parents go out to work, how does this affect their family?
When both parents go to work, they have to be very careful about the upbringing of their
children. They have to see to it that their children are not neglected. They also have to
look into the security of their home when they go to work.
22. What are the responsibilities of parents?

Good parenting is a daunting task. Parents are responsible for bringing their children into
this world. They have to see that the children grow up to be responsible citizens. They
have to make their children self-dependent and responsible. They must give quality time
to the children. They must provide good education to the children so that their children do
not face any difficulties in their adult life.

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Apr’17
23. What problems do people have when they are trying to bring up a child or children?
People have to face a lot of problems when they bring up the children. They have to earn
enough to give them the best education. They have to give time to the children to teach
them moral values. They have to keep an eye on the friend circle of their children. They
have to see, where to be friendly and where to be firm with their children. Sometimes one
parent may have to give up his or her job for bringing up the children.
24. In India, do employers provide any support for parents?

I am not severe if private companies are going so, but many government offices do we
have anganwadis, where working mothers can leave their 0-6 year old children safely
during work hours.
25. How do parents (in your culture) try to correct bad behaviour in the children (and teach
good behaviour)?
Parents try to correct the bad behavior of their children, by telling them that something
they did is bad, and they should not do it again. Sometimes the parents have to scold the
child or even give a physical punishment, if the change continues to do his bad behavior.
The Influence of Friends & Family
26. How do people choose their friends?

It depends on age. Small children are not judgmental, and can make anybody their friend.
Their friendships are very innocent. Older people however, make friends by carefully
judging the other person. They become very calculative. They try to see if the other
person can be useful to them. They see the likes and dislikes of the other person. They
see if the interests of the other person match their interests.
27. Are you very similar to your friends?

No I am not very similar to my friends. I am an introvert, but my friend is very outgoing and
friendly. She has changed me a lot. I like her because of her extrovert nature. We have
similar likes and dislikes. Be both like watching movies and going for long walks. We both
dislike eating out. We enjoy each other’s company.
28. Do most people make friends with others who are similar to themselves, or different to
themselves?
It is a matter of personal choice. Some people like similar friends, whereas other people
like to make friends with those who are different from them.
29. Who do you think has the greater influence on children (and young people), their families
or their friends?
Once children start going to school, the influence of their friends becomes more than that
of parents. This is because nowadays parents do not given enough time to children. It has
been seen that when parents give quality time to their children, read out stories to them,
take them for outings and watch TV with them, then their influence is more than that of
friends.
30. What influence do parents have on the behaviour and attitudes of their children?
Parents have a lot of influence on the behavior and attitudes of the children. Knowingly or
unknowingly children copy their parents. They do what their parents do; they behave as
their parents behave and they develop the same eating habits as their parents.
Personality Development
31. Do you feel that the characteristics of parents are always passed on to their children?
Genes do play part in the characteristics of a person, but it would be wrong to say that the
characteristics of parents are always passed on to the children. Some children are very
different from their parents.
32. Do children usually have personalities that are similar to their parents?
(Same as above)

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Apr’17
33. Do parents affect in a big way the development of their children's personalities?
Yes, children’s personalities are affected in a big way by the parents. Children imitate
their parents, and do everything like their parents do.
If parents are very strict, then children become introverts and withdraw into their shells.
Sometimes they may also become rebels. If parents are friendly and caring, then children
develop to their full potential.
34. Do you think people become more like their parents as they grow older?
Not necessarily. Some children imbibe the habits of their parents, but some grow up to be
very different.

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Apr’17
2. 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
- and 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 ten
years ago.
 I see him every day because I daily go with him for morning walk.
 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.

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Apr’17
Cue Card 2: Follow Up Questions

Neighbours, Friends and Community
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. Now that most people watch a lot of TV, how do you think this has affected people’s
relationships with their neighbours?
Yes, too many channels and 24 hours TV, has certainly affected people’s relationships
with their neighbors. Earlier, people had time to come out of their homes and spend time
with neighbors, but today everybody’s busy watching their favorite TV program, so we can
say that TV has taken away neighborhood time.
5. How should (or, how can) modern people communicate with their neighbours?
People themselves have to realize that good relations with neighbors are very important.
Neighborhood parks should be well maintained, so that people can come out with the
children and socialize with each other. Potluck lunches and dinners could be organized
among neighbors. Important festivals could be celebrated together.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Do you think it’s important to teach children how to have good relations with neighbours?
(Why?)
Yes, it is very important to teach children how to have good relations with neighbors.
Neighbors are very important for everyone. If we will not teach our children today to have
good relations with neighbors, they will not carry on this tradition forward and a day will
come when everyone will be leading very isolated and secluded lives.
9. What is the best kind of neighbour for a child to have?

Children need neighbors who are friendly with them, who have a good sense of humor,
and who can tolerate their naughty pranks without getting mad at them. Good neighbors
should also be good role models. For example, they should not smoke or drink or abuse
others in front of children.

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Apr’17
10. Is it important for children to grow up in a good neighbourhood? (Why? = How does a
good neighbourhood affect children?/Why not?)
It is very important for children to grow up in a good neighborhood. If all people of the
neighborhood nice and friendly, then children will also become like them. On the other
hand, children cannot blossom nicely in an unfriendly neighborhood
11. How do people of neighbourhood become friends? (or, How can neighbours become
friends?)
Neighbors can become friends by meeting each other regularly. They can go for morning
and evening walks together. They can have potluck lunches and dinners on weekends.
12. Are there any organizations to help people (neighbours) become friends?
As such there are no organizations, but in some places people have themselves stepped
forward and made a neighborhood committees.
13. What are some of the reasons why it's not always easy to make new friends?
There are many reasons why people find it difficult to make new friends. The main reason
is that today life has become very hectic. Nobody seems to have time. People have
become workaholics, in a quest to earn more and more. Digital relations have grown, but
face-to-face relations have come down. People also find it difficult to trust the other
person.
Government
14. Compare the differences between local and national government in India, in terms of how
they are managed.
Local governments look after the state affairs, whereas the central government looks after
the affairs of the whole country.
15. What should be the responsibilities of local government and what should be the
responsibilities of national government?
Local government is responsible for developing the infrastructure of the state. It is
responsible for maintaining law and order in the state.it is responsible for providing good
education and health facilities to people of that state. On the other hand the central
government has to look into the defense of the country. It has to look into foreign affairs. It
has to look into the economy of the country. It has to allocate funds to the state
governments.
Housing
16. Did you grow up in an apartment (or a flat) or a house?

I grew up in a house. It is a single story house with some open space in the front and back.
17. Which do you prefer, houses or flats?

I prefer houses, because they’re more open and you can have more privacy in houses.
18. Do you think people have enough privacy in flats? (E.g., Can you hear your neighbours
through the walls?)
I do not think people have enough privacy in flats. Sometimes it is possible to hear noises
from the neighboring flats.

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Apr’17
3. An event in the history of your country

Describe an important event in the history of your country.
- What event it was
- When it occurred
- How you know about this event
- and explain why you think it was important.
 Every country has its own history.

 India too has a rich historical background.
 Here I would like to talk about an important event in the history of my country, which is
the Swadeshi Movement.
 It was started by Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation in 1905.
 It involved boycotting the use of all things of foreign origin.
 It brought out a sense of patriotism among the people of India.
 This patriotism was very much needed in those days.
 Actually the Britishers forced the Indians to buy their products.
 The whole profits went into their pockets.
 This was not helping the economy of the Indians.
 If people bought only Indian products then at least the profits would remain within
India.
 The culture of India was also taking a back seat because of the use of foreign goods.
 Under the effect of this movement people burnt all foreign made products that were
there in their homes.
 This definitely disturbed the British people.
 During this movement large numbers of schools were opened in different parts of the
nation particularly in Bengal
 Children of all castes could study in these schools.
 These schools also spread Indian culture and traditions.
 Education was given in the national languages.
 Many patriotic songs were also written in that time by Rabindra Nath Tagore and
others.
 I came to know about this event from my history book of 10th class.
 It was the first chapter of the book.
 It was important because this movement and many other such small steps finally led
to the freedom of India in 1947.

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Apr’17

1. Do you think it is important to know about history?
Yes, it is very important to know about history. History tells us about our past. It teaches
us many things. Everything has its history. We enjoy the freedom we have to day only
because we knew that once we were slaves. History also teaches us not to repeat the
mistakes of the past. We learn about the progress we have made through history.
2. What can we learn from history?

(Same as above)
3. How can people get reliable historical information?

People can get reliable and historical information from books written by eminent historians,
from museums, and from art galleries. Now ideas many reliable sites have information
about history on the Internet.
4. How do you think famous historical figures can serve as models for young people today?
Yes, famous historical figures can 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
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.

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Apr’17
4. A plan of yours not related to work or study

Talk about something that you plan to do in life besides your work and study
- What do you want to do?
- What should you do for your plan to come true?
- Why do you want to do it?
- How would you feel once you have achieved it?
 I plan to do many things besides my work and study.

 Here I would like to talk about a philanthropic activity which I really wish to do.
 I would like to do it with my friends.
 We are four friends – Rohan, Ravi, Tejinder and I
 We plan to open a charitable hospital for the poor who cannot afford treatment.
 I know it is a herculean task but I would definitely be able to achieve it one day.
 For my plan to come true I know, a lot of hard work is needed.
 I am a student yet, and have to study further and after that get a good job to earn well.
 Once my uncle was very ill and was hospitalized.
 He was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
 I had to stay with him for a few days in the hospital.
 He recovered but the hospital bill was exorbitant.
 My uncle could afford it but there are so many poor people all around us who cannot
afford such costly treatment.
 Then I decided that in future I would like to help such people.
 When I talked about my plan to my friends, they too liked it and so now we are a team
with one goal.
 I am very optimistic and I believe that nothing is impossible.
 I really wish God gives me the capability to carry out my future plan.
 I would be the happiest person on Earth once I achieve my goal.
(Another idea)
 I plan to do many things besides my work and study

 But the one plan I would like to mention here is of immigrating to Canada.
 For my plan to come true I have to work very hard.
 Canada is inviting immigrants to settle there.
 But they have some pre-requisites.
 First I have to clear IELTS
 Then I shall consult some immigration agency to study my case and prepare my
application.
 I want to do so because Canada is a developed country and I have relatives there.
 When they come to India in holidays they spend money as if it grows on trees.
 I also want to be able to spend so much without giving it a second thought.
 They tell me that they work very hard over there.
 I am also prepared to work hard.
 I am prepared to do any work to make a living.
 I have seen people work very hard here but still they don’t have enough money.
 So I would like to be a part of the developed world.
 My family would have a better life if I am able to immigrate to Canada.
 I love my country and would definitely like to do something for the needy over
here.
 That would only be possible if I earn a lot over there
 I would feel very happy once I have achieved my goal.
Note – You can also talk about a place you would like to visit

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Apr’17
Cue Card 4: Follow ups
1. Do you think it is important for a person to have a career plan?

Yes, it is very important for a person to have a career plan. A career plan gives a
person something to look forward to. He can then plan his education according to that
career plan. Without a plan, any work seems meaningless. So, it is very important to
have a plan. Sometimes, a person may change his plan midway, but all the same
without a plan taking any step ahead is impossible.
2. How do most people plan their future education and their future career?
Most people plan their future education and career by talking to their parents,
teachers, career counselors and by consulting some people who are already in the
same career.
3. Do you think it’s important to include the factor of one’s salary in a career plan?
Yes, salary is a very important factor in a career plan. It is generally seen that in the
early stages of one’s life money is needed for everything. One cannot go for a career,
which doesn’t pay well in the early stages. Later on in life, one can go for a career,
which one loves even if it doesn’t pay well.
4. Do you think planning is important or is it a waste of time?

Planning is very important. It is definitely not a waste of time. If things are done
without planning, then it wastes a lot of time because most of the effort may go in the
wrong direction and prove futile.
5. What kinds of personal plans should people make for themselves?

People should make plans about their studies, about their careers, about their
married life, about places they want to visit, and about their retirement.
6. In general, how do people make plans?

People make plans according to their situation, by consulting their elders and also by
realizing their own interests and hobbies.
7. For a person with children, what influence does this have on their personal plans for
the future?
When a person has children, on his personal plans take a backseat, and the
upbringing of the child comes first. All the personal plans become flexible and revolve
around the needs of the family and children. I think this flexibility has a charm of its
own.

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Apr’17
5. A café you visited

Café you have visited
- Talk about the interiors of the café
- When did you visit
- With whom
- What did you like and dislike about it
 I have visited many cafes in my life.

 Here I would like to talk about café coffee day or CCD as it is popularly called.
 It is opposite the bus stand.
 The interiors are very well decorated.
 There are pictures of different types of coffee on the walls.
 There is very comfortable cane furniture and there is always some light music
playing in the background.
 I go there once or twice a month.
 Last time I went there with my friend last Sunday.
 She treated me to coffee and do-nuts as her sister had been blessed with a baby
girl.
 I like everything about this café; their coffees are just superb.
 They offer Cappuccino, which is a coffee made with hot frothy milk.
 They also offer latte, which is stronger than cappuccino.
 Mocha is a very high quality coffee but is also very expensive.
 They also have iced coffee and cold coffee.
 The thing I dislike is that they do not have enough parking and enough seating
capacity.
 As it is opposite the bus stand, it is a very crowded area.
 CCD is in fact a chain of coffee outlets.
 They also export their coffee to USA
 Their first CCD outlet started in Bangalore in 1996 and now they have outlets all
over India.
 They make coffee from freshly ground beans.
 They also make designs on the coffee with cream like smileys and leaves which
look awesome.
Cue Card 5: Follow Ups
Cafes and Restaurants
1. What kinds of people choose to go to cafe?

All types of people like to go to cafes. Cafes are nice places to hang out with friends.
2. What is the difference between cafe and restaurant?

Cafes primarily aim to sell coffee - good coffee, different types of coffee - and things that
go with coffee, like light sandwiches, cakes, breakfasts, and snacks; also, a variety of
drinks as well as tea, for people who don't like coffee. Restaurants focus on selling you
the whole meal.
3. Which do you think is more suitable for a family gathering?

I think a restaurant is more suitable for a family gathering. Restaurants are generally
bigger and have more seating capacity then cafés. They have more choice of food also.
4. Why do some people like to invite others at their home, while some take them out?

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Apr’17
Some people like to entertain at home because they feel more comfortable at home with
their guests. It is also cheaper at home. People can also show off their culinary skills.
Some like to entertain outside in cafes and restaurants because they feel that at home
they would not be able to give enough time to their guests, as they would be busy in the
kitchen all the time.
5. Apart from eating meals, what are the other things people do together at home?
People watch sitcoms and movies together, they play cards and other indoor games and
enjoy each others company.
6. Do you think it's suitable to talk in a cafe?

It is perfectly suitable to talk in the café, but it is not suitable to gossip, because other
people are also sitting very close to each other, and can overhear you.
7. What are some of the disadvantages of going to cafes?

The main disadvantage is the cost. Most cafés are overpriced.
8. What do people do in a cafe?

People sit in the café, talk to each other and enjoy their tea coffee and snacks.
9. Do you often go to a cafe?

No, I don’t often go to a café. There is a CCD in my hometown, but I go there once in two
or three months.
10. Did you ever go to cafe when you were a child?

No, I never went to a café in my childhood.
11. Why do some young people prefer to go to a cafe instead of going to a restaurant?
Some people prefer a café to a restaurant, because the service is faster in a café.
Besides, they don’t want to eat the traditional food, but enjoy the snacks and beverages
offered in a café.
12. Do young people prefer to go to cafes or fast food restaurants such as KFC and
MacDonalds? (Why?)
Young people prefer to go to all these places equally.
13. What types of people choose to go to a restaurant instead of a cafe?

Businessmen choose the restaurant instead of a café, because they can discuss things
over lunch or dinner with each other. Cafes are more noisy, because they’re frequented
mostly by the young people. In a restaurant, you have more privacy than a Café.
14. Which place do you think would be more suitable for a business discussion, a cafe or a
restaurant?
(Same as above)
15. What do you think of the decor (the inside appearance & furnishings) of most cafes?
The inside appearance and furnishings of most cafés are very important. The décor, if
done in soothing shades, gives peace of mind.
Socializing at Home versus Socializing in a Restaurant
16. Do you often invite friends to visit your home?

Yes, I often invite friends to visit my home. My mother is an excellent cook, and my
friends enjoy the snacks prepared by her.
17. Do people in your country feel that they don't really know someone until they have eaten
together? (Why?)
I don’t think so myself. I am not aware if other people of my country think like that.
18. Why do you think eating is such an important part of socializing?

Socializing over food may have some of the following benefits:

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Apr’17
It prevents eating on the go in a stressed state, which improves digestion. Secondly, it

helps us become open to new experiences and eat outside of our comfort zone. It also
helps children learn the importance of taking time to enjoy food. Moreover, it allows us to
bond with others over a pleasurable event. It helps us feel as though we belong due to our
common interest in food with others. Then, it takes our mind off what we did before sitting
down to eat and what we need to do after, encourages us to be present in the moment
19. Where do people generally arrange to meet new friends, at home or in a restaurant or
some other eating place?
It’s a matter of personal choice. Normally, people don’t entertain complete strangers at
home, but sometimes one has to look at ones pocket also. Entertaining outside could be
very costly.
20. When people are entertaining visitors or friends etc. in your country, do they usually prefer
to go out to eat in a restaurant or to eat at home?
It depends on the length of stay of the visitors. If the stay is long, then most meals are at
home, and only a few are at some restaurant. If the visitors have come for a very short
time then they can be taken out, so that you get to spend time with them.
21. In what circumstances do you think it is more suitable to entertain guests at home?
Sometimes the guests prefer to have simple home cooked meals. Sometimes, they may
not be able to tolerate the spicy food of restaurants. Sometimes, they may not be in very
good health. In all these circumstances, it is better to entertain them at home.
22. When do people in your country usually choose to entertain guests at home?
(Same as above)
23. When people have family gatherings in your country, do they usually go to a restaurant or
eat at home?
During family gatherings, usually people hire professional cooks for few days in their
homes, so that any number of guests can be entertained at any time.
24. Why do some people prefer not to entertain guests at home?

Some people do not want to entertain guests at home because they do not want to go into
the hassle of cooking, and they want to be able to spend time with their guests.
25. In your country, how is the restaurant usually paid when a group of people eat in a
restaurant?
Mostly, the host of the party pays, or sometimes people share the bill.

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Apr’17
6. A time you spent with a child

Describe an experience when you spent your time with a child
- Who was it
- What did you do
- How did you feel
 I know many children, and I have spent time with many of them, but here I would like to
talk about my niece, Gia, who is three years old.
 She is my cousin Jyoti’s daughter, who lives in Canada.
 Last year my cousin spent a week with us, when she came to India in December.
 Gia is very cute and I just adore her.
 She is a very chubby child.
 When she smiles, she has dimples on both cheeks, which look very beautiful.
 I always feel like picking at her cheeks but she screams when anybody does so.
 She has curly hair and does not like getting her hair combed.
 I shared my room with my cousin and Gia.
 I am a very organised person and keep my room spic and span, but Gia loved to mess
everything up.
 Normally I don’t like if anyone messes up my things but with Gia I didn’t mind at all.
 I would make sad faces, when she fiddled with my things, but she would look at me with
her cute smile and dimples and then I would forget everything.
 She loved chocolates and candies and I had kept some in stock for her.
 She is only 3 years old but she really knows how to twist everyone around her little finger.
 It is sometimes very amusing to watch her small pranks.
 She surely knows what she wants and gets it somehow.
 My cousin told me that she had to leave her job because she wanted to be with her
daughter, and not leave her with a nanny.
 Nannies are very expensive in Canada, and on top of that, are not very good at their job.
 Schools start only after the child is 5 years old.
 There is a park in my neighbourhood, where I took Gia almost every day when she was
with us.
 All the children in the park would surround her and she loved being the centre of attention.
 She loved the swings and the merry-go-round in the park, and would cry every time we
had to come back home.
 The week with Gia passed very quickly
 I am looking forward to her visit this summer also.
 May God bless her with a long and happy life.

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Apr’17

1. Why is it hard for parents to raise a child?
Raising a child is a full-time job. Many parents find it difficult to raise a child because
they are busy in their work, and hence find it difficult to manage enough time. They
have to work also because they want to provide their child with the best education
and other things. The situation is worse in families where both parents are working.
2. What things can children learn from toys?

Children can learn a lot from toys. They develop imagination and creativity when they
make stories with their toys. They also learned sharing when they share their toys
with their friends.
3. What’s the best age to raise a child?

As such, there is no best age for raising a child. One should have a child only when
one is fully prepared to enter the commitment of raising the child. That is why,
perhaps, nowadays people are having children later on in life. Raising a child is a full-
time job and requires the full commitment of at least one parent.
4. What do you think about children from rich families who have lots of toys?
I think it is not good to buy children lots of toys. Children who have lots of toys do not
learn to share their toys. They also do not value their toys, because they have too
many of them. It also has been seen that children who have lots of toys do not
develop their imagination as compared to children who have fewer toys.
Children
5. Do you think children are important?

Yes, children are important because no one lives forever. Children are the future of
any civilization. They carry the times forward.
6. How do you think children and teenagers are different?

Teenagers are also children, but slightly older children. They are confused children.
They don’t know whether they are children or adults. When they play with small
children they feel out of place, when they sit with older people, they feel out of place.
Important physical and hormonal changes are going on in their body, which is
stressful for them. They are still children at heart, but they have started looking older.
7. Do you think children today are happier than children in the past?
No, I do not think so. I think that today’s children are faced with more stress than
children of the past. They are exposed to the global culture, and want to adopt it, but
their parents want them to stick to the traditional culture. This stress was not faced by
the children of the past.
Moreover, children are exposed to a lot of career options, and want to walk on the un-
trodden path, but their parents want them to follow the traditional courses and
traditional jobs.
Being a Parent
8. For parents, what is important when bringing up their child?

It is important to provide their child with a good education, and also teach him/her
moral values. Parents need to realize that just providing things to children is not
enough; they have to give time also.
9. What does a child need in order to develop well?

A child needs good education, good surroundings, quality time with family and moral
values.

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Apr’17
10. How do you think young parents can know how to (or, learn how to) bring up their
child?
Yes, young parents can certainly know how to bring up a child. They can learn from
their elders at home. If they’re living alone, they can join some parenting classes.
11. Who do you think has more responsibility to take care of a child, the mother or the
father?
I think both parents have equal responsibility to take care of the child. Raising a child
is a daunting task, add should not be left on one parent.
12. Do you think mothers and fathers have different roles to play in bringing up a child?
Nowadays, there’re no gender differences in bringing up a child. Traditionally, the
mother was responsible for the emotional needs of the child, when is the father
looked after the financial needs. But today, fathers changing diapers and cooking for
their children is a common sight. Both parents have begun to realize that at least one
parent should be there with the child in the growing stage.
13. Who (or, which) do you think is more important for a child, the mother or the father?
Both are equally important.
14. Why do mothers sometimes have a job outside the home?

Nowadays, mothers have to work outside the home, because two incomes are
needed to run the house.
15. Do you think it's good for a mother to also have a job?
I think it is good for the mother to have a job, but both parents should manage their
time in such a way that their child is not left unattended.
Single-Child Families
16. Do you have any brothers or sisters?

(Personal answer)
17. (If you answer "No") Would you like to have a brother or sister?
Yes, I would because I would not feel lonely at any time, and would always have
someone to play with or share my feelings with.
OR
No, I am happy being an only child. If I have a brother or sister, I would have to share
my room and things. Now, I have the undivided attention of my parents. Then, their
love also would be shared.
18. What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages for children to have
brothers and sisters (or, a brother or sister)?
(Same as above)
19. For parents, which do you think is better, to have one child or more than one?
I personally think, two children should be there in every family, because children learn
to share and care for each other. They also give each other company when parents
are busy at work.
20. Do you think parents of a single child treat their child differently to the way parents
who have several children treat their children?
I think, all parents treat all their children the same, but sibling jealousy is very
common. Older child feels that more love is being given to the younger child.
21. (Similar to above, but different) Do you think parents of a single child give their child
more love than parents who have several children?
(Same as above)

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Apr’17
Children's Play - Indoors and Outdoors
22. Is there any difference between the way children play today and the way children
used to play, in the past?
In the past children used to play outdoor games, but today children most deeply
indoor games. They play electronic games, which are usually played alone.
23. Which do you think is better (for the development of) children, indoor activities or
outdoor activities?
I think both indoor and outdoor activities are needed for the development of children.
It is the responsibility of parents to see to it that their children do both indoor and
outdoor activities equally.
24. (Similar to above) Which do you think is better for children, to spend time indoors or
spend time outdoors?
I think it is equally important for children to spend time indoors and outdoors.
25. What benefits are there for children (and/or young people) in playing sport?
Children have a lot of benefits of playing sport. Firstly, it develops them physically.
Secondly it also leads to mental development. We all know that a healthy mind
resides in a healthy body. Sports also teach children many virtues of life. They learn
competition, cooperation and sportsmanship, which means winning with modesty and
losing with grace.
26. Do you think children today should do more physical exercise?

Yes, children today should do more physical exercise because lives have become
very sedentary. On top of that children eat a lot of junk food, which is rich in fats and
salts and is leading to childhood obesity.
27. What sports do you think are most suitable for children?
All types of sports are most suitable for children. They learn competition from
competitive sports, which are played alone, and they learn co-operation from team
sports, which they play in a group.
28. How do you think indoor games affect the development of children?
Indoor or electronic games are very important for the development of children.
a) Video game playing introduces children to computer technology
b) Some games provide practice in problem solving and logic. E.g. Age of Empires
c) Video games have proved to improve visual skills.
d) They make learning fun. The cost of failure is lower. This encourages risk-taking
and exploration.
e) Some games have therapeutic applications with patients.
f) Games are entertaining and fun.
29. What about outdoor activities? How do they affect the development of children?
(Same as answer 25)
30. How important do you think it is that young children's play allows them to get some
physical exercise (such as running around outside)?
I think it is very important for children to play outside. It gives them the much-needed
exercise and also give them a chance to be with nature.
31. Do you think computer games (and/or hand-held electronic games and /or online
computer games) are good for children?
(Same as answer 28)
32. Do you think watching TV is good for children?

Watching TV is very good for children but only if it is done in a limit. When children
watch too much TV, then they forget their homework and other outdoor activities.
33. Do you think it's important for children to learn to co-operate with other children?

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Apr’17
Yes, it is very important for children to learn to cooperate with others. In adult life we
have to cooperate with others around us, and so children should learn this skill in their
childhood.
Family Life
34. Which do you think is better, having (or being part of) a big family or a small family?
Both big and small families have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
However, I feel that big families are better.
35. Please compare the benefits of the nuclear family as opposed to a joint and
an extended family?
A nuclear family has a lot of benefits. The cost of running a nuclear family is lesser,
because you need a smaller house. In a nuclear family parents can give more time to
their children, because they don’t have to look after the other elderly members of the
family. There is more privacy in the nuclear family.
On the other hand, in a joint family you’re never alone. Children are well looked after.
If managed properly the cost of living of a joint family can also come down, because
the ordered expenses are shared. You don’t need two refrigerators, two washing
machines and other such things.
36. Do you think family planning is good?

Yes, I think family planning is very good. First of all, when to have the first child
should be planned, and then whether to have the second child should be planned.
Planning a family and then running it well, is a daunting task.
37. Do you think it would be a good idea to have classes, which parents could attend to
learn how to be good parents?
Yes, it would definitely be good to have parenting classes, because bringing up
children needs a lot of commitment. There is no room for making mistakes.
Children's Education
38. Which do you think is most important for a child's education, family, friends or school?
All these things are equally important. A family educates the child in different ways.
Friends and schooling have their own role in educating a child. A family gives social
values. Friends teach sharing and caring. Schools impart academic education apart
from social values and other things.
39. (Similar to above) Where do you think children learn more, at home or at school?
(Same as above)
40. What types of books do children like?

Children like books with lots of graphics, such as comics. They also like books of the
bold font. They like books, which pique their imagination.
41. Do you think parents should read adult books to their children?
No, I think parents should read children’s books to children. Children can read adult
books when they become adults.
Children, education and play
42. What do you think are the differences between studying at home (possibly = home
schooling) and studying at school?
When children are homeschooled, they get one on one attention of their teachers.
They can study at their own pace. They can study any additional subject of their
choice, such as any language. They could do some other activities because the time
to going and coming from school is saved.

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Apr’17
On the other hand, going to school has its own benefits. Children learn a lot from their
peers at school. They can do team sports at school. Practical subjects are better
learnt in the laboratories at school.
43. Why do you think learning theoretical material is emphasized more than learning
practical skills in India?
Theory has its own importance. It is the base of all practical work. That is why,
perhaps, it is emphasized more.
44. Why do you think so many Indian people go abroad to study practical skills?
Practical skills are emphasized more in the developed countries. They have a better
labs to teach practical subjects.
45. Do you think the education system in India should be reformed? (If yes, how?)
Yes, I think the education system in India should be reformed. More emphasis should
be given to the practical skills.
Children and families
46. Do you think hitting children is sometimes necessary for discipline? (Why?)
I do not think corporal punishment is needed to discipline the child. Corporal
punishment can prove very damaging in the long run. Children can become rebels or
they may withdraw into their shell. Corporal punishment can turn stubborn children
into even more stubborn children.

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7. A polite person
Describe a polite person who you know.
- Who the person is
- How you know him/her
- And explain why you think this person is polite.
 Politeness is a very nice quality.

 I know many polite persons but here I would like to talk about the politest person
known to me.
 He is none other than my father.
 He is in his late forties.
 He is not very tall but looks very handsome.
 His hair is graying at the temples but he doesn’t dye his hair.
 He believes in going grey gracefully
 He does not do anything special to show his politeness.
 His politeness is reflected by his way of talking to others.
 He is very helpful.
 I have seen that many times he goes out of the way to help others.
 That is why everyone in my family and neighbourhood loves him.
 He is very predictable.
 Even if he is himself sad or depressed, he never lets it affect us.
 He is a perfect role model for us.
 My grandfather is a bit short tempered but my father always shows respect to him
and does whatever he says.
 He is also a perfect husband.
 He always listens to my mother and lets her have her way in family matters.
 They both are a perfectly happy couple.
 He is also a perfect father.
 Whenever I am wrong or make any unfair demand then he reasons with me like a
friend.
 He believes that if we want to earn love and respect then we must first learn to
give love and respect.
 He uses the word ‘ji’ for calling anyone. For example if calls our gardener as
maaliji and our laundryman as dhobiji.
 That is why I can call him the politest person known to me.

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Politeness in Your Country
1. Do you think you are a polite person?

Yes, I think I’m a polite person. I don’t speak rudely with anyone. I try to help anyone
who comes to me for help.
2. How do you show politeness?

I don’t think anyone can show politeness. It just reflects in one’s behavior.
3. Do you think politeness is important?

Yes, politeness is very important. Politeness begets politeness. If we are polite to
others, only then we can expect politeness from them.
4. In your opinion, why is it important to show respect to others?

It is important to show respect to others, because it reflects our own nature. If you will
respect others only then you will get respect from others. If you will disrespect others,
no one will care for you.
5. Can you give me some other examples of how people show politeness in your
country?
People show politeness in many ways. Giving an elderly person your seat in the bus
is one method of showing politeness. Standing up when the teacher comes in the
class is another method of showing politeness. Stopping your car to let the pedestrian
cross the road is also a way of showing politeness. Helping an elderly person cross
the road is also a way of showing politeness.
6. Are there any differences between urban and rural people concerning politeness?
Urban people are living a faster life. They have no time for showing politeness. On the
other hand, life in the villages is slower. People help each other, and spend time with
each other. So it can be said that rural people are more polite.
7. Do young people show politeness in the same way as old people?

Old and young people to show politeness in different ways. Old people can show
politeness by not being mad at children when they’re playing and making noise.
Young people can show politeness by giving the elderly their seat or by just sitting
and talking to them
8. Do young and old people have the same attitude towards politeness?
I think the attitude of both is the same, but the way of showing politeness is different
9. Are people more polite with non-family members than they are with their parents?
Yes, people are a lot more polite with nonfamily members, because they take their
family members for granted and expect that they would not mind even if they are not
very polite with them
10. Do you think there have been any changes in recent decades to the way people show
politeness to others?
As life has become faster, politeness has slipped away from people’s minds. They
are so busy in their own life that they hardly find time to show politeness.
11. (Similar to above) Are people today as polite as people were in the past?
Same as above)
Cross-Cultural Relations
12. Do you think there are any differences between politeness in your country and in the
West?

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Apr’17
I don’t think politeness has anything to do with the country one comes from. There are
polite and impolite people in every country.
13. (Similar to above) Do you think politeness is different in different countries and parts
of the world?
(Same as above)
14. How can one evaluate other cultures?

One can evaluate other cultures by talking to the people, and sharing views with them.
15. What do you think might happen if the nations of the whole world showed respect to
other nations?
If the nations of the whole world showed respect to other nations, then life would
become very harmonious and beautiful.
Politeness in Your Country (in your culture)
16. In general, what is "politeness"?

Politeness is talking softly with everyone; politeness is sitting with the elderly and
giving them company; politeness is helping a blind man cross the road; politeness is
greeting others with a happy face; politeness is in small good gestures that make
others happy.
17. Why do people show politeness towards others? (= What is the purpose of
politeness?)
The purpose of politeness is to give a meaning to your life, and to make this world a
happy place.
18. On what occasions do people need to be (especially) polite?

I think we should not find occasions to be especially polite. We should be polite all the
time.
19. What are some ways that people in your country show politeness towards others?
(answered above)
20. Do you think politeness is something natural (innate to humans) or is it learned

behaviour?
Politeness is a learned behavior. When children see other people polite, they also
become polite by nature.
21. What are the differences between politeness and impoliteness?

(About politeness, I have talked of above)
Impoliteness is thinking too high of oneself and not respecting the life of another
person. And impolite person is generally not liked by anyone.
22. (Similar to above) What are the differences between polite behaviour and impolite
behaviour?
(Same as above)
23. (Similar to above) How do you (or, how do people) judge what is polite and what isn't
polite?
24. Why do we show different levels of politeness to different people or in different
situations?
We show different levels of politeness to different people, because we have different
feelings for them. For example, if we don’t like somebody we can just greet him with a
smile to show politeness, but if we like somebody, we will greet him with a smile and
also hug and kiss the person to show our politeness.
25. What do you think are the differences between a polite person and a friendly person?

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A friendly person is always polite, but a polite person may not always be friendly. For
example, one can be polite to complete strangers even without being friends with
them.
26. (Possibly the above question is worded this way) Is being friendly the same as being
polite?
(Same as above)
27. Do you think it's possible to show politeness and friendliness at the same time?
Yes, at times it is possible to social politeness and friendliness at the same time. For
example, one may just help another person out of politeness, and then start a friendly
talk with him.
28. Do you think it's possible to be too (= overly, excessively) polite?

It is possible to be too polite, but I personally think it would look very artificial.
Teaching Children about Politeness
29. How can parents teach their children to be polite?

Parents can teach their children to be polite, by setting an example in front of them. If
parents are polite, children automatically learn politeness.
30. (Similar to above) How do parents in your country teach their children to be polite?
(Same as above)
31. Can you think of any examples when young children are not very polite?
Children are not polite when they go to the park and don’t offer their swing to the
other children when their turn comes. Children are not polite, when they make too
much noise and disturb people of the neighborhood. Children I’m not polite when they
go to somebody’s house and mess things up.
32. Do you think there is a certain age when children should be expected to be polite?
No, I don’t think so. Children should be taught politeness and should learn to be polite
from a very young age.
33. In your opinion, how should (or, how can) parents correct their children when the
children are impolite?
When children are impolite, pigeons should ask them to say sorry. They should also
apologize to the other person. In this way children will not do that mistake again.
34. Do young children learn about politeness at school?

There are no special classes on politeness, but children do learn politeness by
observing their teachers and other students.
Public Awareness of Politeness
35. Do you think that everyone in society is aware of what is and isn't polite behaviour?
More people are aware of polite and impolite behavior.
36. Sometimes there are occasions when the government (or some other authority)
wants to remind people about being polite. Can you think of any examples of that?
Sometimes, the government has to appeal to the people to be patient and polite. This
happens especially on festivals, when people drink and forget what it is right or wrong.
37. What methods can (or does) the government use to remind people about some
aspect of politeness?
The government takes the help of media such as TV or radio to aware people.
Truthfulness and Politeness

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Apr’17
38. Do you always tell the truth to people?

No, not always! Sometimes a white light also has to be spoken. For example, recently
my six-year-old niece drew a flower, which was not very nice, but I told her that it was
very beautiful because I didn’t want to hurt her feelings.
39. (Similar to above) Do you think people are (or should be) honest all the time when
they speak to others?
Yes, people should be honest when they speak to each other. But sometimes, it is
okay to speak a white lie, if the situation demands it.
40. Do you think telling lies is impolite?

No, not always! White lies are not impolite. A doctor might have to tell his patient of
terminal stage of cancer that he will get well very soon, even if it is not correct.
41. Are there any times when it might be polite to tell a lie?
(same as above)
42. Which do you think is better, to always show your feelings or to sometimes conceal
your feelings?
It is always better to be able to conceal ones feelings, especially if it would hurt the
other person to know your true feelings.
43. (Similar to above) Which do you think is better, to always show your real thoughts or
to sometimes conceal your thoughts?
(Same as above)
44. On the question of expressing what one really thinks (or feels), do you think males
and females are the same?
I think there are no gender differences, as far as hiding one’s feelings are concerned.
Some men are good at hiding their feelings, and some women are capable of hiding
their feelings. So it is not a question of gender.
45. When (or, in what situations) do you think it is acceptable to express what one really
thinks?
When some important discussion or debate is going on, you have to be clear which
side you are on.
46. Do you think pretending to smile is polite?

Yes, at times pretending to smile is polite, especially when you do not want the other
person to feel hurt by knowing that you are sad

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Apr’17
8. A tall building
Describe a tall building in your hometown you like or dislike
- Where it is
- What it is used for
- What it looks like
- Explain why you like or dislike it
 I belong to Phagwara, and there are no tall buildings in my hometown.

 Here I would like to talk about the Qutub Minar, which is in the Mehrauli area of Delhi.
 It is used as a tourist attraction nowadays.
 It looks very beautiful.
 It is 73 metres in height or 240 feet tall building.
 The building is tapering towards the top.
 The base has a diameter of 47 feet and the top has a diameter of 9 feet.
 It is the tallest brick minaret in the world.
 Inside the tower there is a circular staircase with 379 steps leading to the top.
 Qutub Minar was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1200 AD
 His son in law Iltutmish added 3 storeys in 1820.
 The top storey was damaged by lightening in 1369 and was restored by Feroz Shah
Tuglak
 I visited the Qutub Minar when I was in 10th.
 I really disliked the fact that we could only see the Qutub Minar from outside.
Otherwise I like the building a lot.
 We were told that the public access to the staircase had been banned as there was
some accident in 1981 in which 45 people including children were killed.
 Our school organised a tour to Delhi.
 We were 40 students and 4 teachers.
 It was a five-day tour.
 We visited many places in and around Delhi.
 We visited the Red Fort, Jantar Mantar and India Gate.
 We did boating at the India Gate.
 There was an International trade fair going on.
 Our teachers took us there also.
 We enjoyed a lot.

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Cue Card 8: follow-up questions

1. What kinds of buildings are popular in India now?
a. India is a diverse country. All types of buildings are popular in India. It
depends on geographical area and also on the density of population. In
metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi, there are tall buildings to
accommodate more people, but smaller towns and cities have buildings,
which spread horizontally and not vertically.
b. In areas with heavy rainfall, there are sloped roofs, whereas in other areas
there are flat terraces. So, it is difficult to generalize what types of buildings
are popular in India now.
2. Compare old buildings and modern buildings. Which do people prefer to live in?
a. Old buildings were more spacious, but modern buildings are more compact.
Old buildings spread horizontally, but modern buildings spread vertically. Old
buildings mostly used locally available materials, but modern buildings use
materials from around the world. Old buildings had visible wiring and
pipelines, but modern buildings have concealed wiring and water pipes.
b. Today people prefer to live in modern buildings. Modern buildings are more
comfortable and easy to manage.
3. How do people in India feel about old buildings?

a. People have different feelings about old buildings. Some people think that
these should be demolished and new ones should be made instead. However,
other feel that we should preserve these old buildings
4. Do old people and young people in India have the same attitudes towards old
building?
a. Old people and young people do not have the same attitude towards old
buildings. Old people are emotionally attached to old buildings, and so they
want to preserve them and restore them. However, young people like the
modern buildings instead because they think that old buildings can be
hazardous to live in.
5. Is it important to preserve old buildings? (Why?)

a. Yes, it is important to preserve some old buildings, especially those which
have some historical importance and can attract tourism. However those
buildings, which are in a very dilapidated state should be demolished and
new ones built instead.
6. What aspect of culture do old buildings reflect?

a. Old buildings reflect how people lived in the past. Most old houses were very
spacious. The bathrooms were in one corner. Most houses had a central
courtyard around which there used to be bedrooms.
7. Do you think it’s worth the money to preserve old buildings?

a. I do not think it is a waste of money to preserve those old buildings, which
have some historical significance and can earn revenue in the form of tourist
dollar. Some old buildings can be put to good use. For example, the Sainik
School of Kapurthala was once the home of maharaja Ranjit Singh.
8. How have buildings changed in the past few years?

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Apr’17
a. Buildings have changed a lot in the past few years. Today we have more
high-rise buildings. Materials used in the buildings are also imported from all
over the world. Buildings today focus more on utility than beauty. People are
using prefabricated materials for doors and windows and so less of wood is
used. Today’s buildings are more energy-efficient.
9. Are expensive buildings a waste of money?

a. It depends. If too much money is spent to improve the façade of the building,
then it is a waste of money. But, if money is spent to make the building more
energy efficient and utilitarian, then it is certainly not a waste of money.
10. Is it important to design a building

a. Yes, it is very important to design a building. It would be very unwise to just
start constructing without a plan. The lighting, ventilation, security and many
other things have to be considered. A well designed building has proper
space management and saves a lot of hassle later on.
11. Can natural calamities affect people living in tall buildings?

a. Yes, definitely. That is why very tall buildings need highly skilled architects
and engineers. Today’s architects can design skyscrapers which can bear the
brunt of such natural calamities.
12. What has been the biggest change in your hometown in the last few years?
a. The biggest change has been the building of two flyovers, which have greatly
improved the traffic problem.
Important points which can also be incorporated in writing tasks
Advantages of tall buildings/skyscrapers
1. Accommodate large number of people, which is important as the population is burgeoning

and land is getting scarce.
2. Tall buildings allow green spaces for parks, which are the lungs of the community.
3. Water supply, central heating and cooling, waste disposal etc. are more efficient when done in
small spaces.
4. Tall buildings are more attractive
5. They are more affordable
Disadvantages
1. Highly skilled architects and engineers are needed, so the cost goes up. If the tall buildings is
just 4-5 storeys then cost is less, but for constructing skyscrapers a lot of budget is needed.
2. Tall buildings have to be strong enough to bear the wind forces.
3. Risky in case of natural calamities such as earthquakes.
4. They can block the view and sunshine of the neighbouring buildings
Advantages of horizontal cities

1. People who live in horizontal cities can enjoy a better quality of life. The population of these
cities is small, and residents have more opportunities to interact with their neighbours,
creating a community with strong bonds.
2. More over the competition is not so intensive than that of vertical cities. Therefore, horizontal
cities have a better quality of life.
3. People living in houses with one or two floors feel a sense of spaciousness as they have a
broad view of the sky. Ventilation system is also much better in the small buildings compared
to tall buildings.
4. In addition, the small house is safe in case of risks, which are caused by natural calamities
such as earthquakes.
Modernization of Buildings

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Advantages of modernizing:
1. To meet the needs of the growing population
2. Some old buildings may be a threat to life
3. Modern materials are more practical
4. Energy efficient houses
Disadvantages of modernizing:
1. Loss of architectural diversity:
2. Loss of tourism:
Modernization of cities
Advantages of modernizing:
1. To meet the needs of the growing population
2. Modern material are more practical
3. Energy efficient houses
4. Expanding road system
5. To expand trade
Disadvantages of modernization
1. Loss of architectural diversity
2. Loss of tourism
Historic Buildings
Advantages of destroying historic buildings
 To meet the needs of the growing population
 Will not be a threat to life
 Road systems are being expanded
Advantages of not destroying
 Serves a very good purpose
 Attract tourists and good revenue

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Apr’17
9. An Advertisement
Ad you saw or read recently

- When and where you saw it
- What was the advertisement about?
- Explain how you felt about it
 Advertisements are ubiquitous nowadays.

 I have seen many ads in my life but the ad I am going to talk about here is of Nokia
N8
 I saw this ad on Star News Channel
 Priyanka Chopra is the brand ambassador for this phone.
 I want to buy it because it’s a very attractive and beautiful phone and has many new
features and applications.
 It has a fully touch screen interface.
 It is available in black, white and silver colours.
 It has a 12 megapixel camera
 It is 3 G enabled
 It has a qwerty key pad.
 It has many other applications such as video player, MP3 player
 It also has latest mobile games
 It has a calculator, alarm, timer, FM radio, calendar and internet facility.
 Its memory is 8 GB
 It has a wi-fi facility
 It has a navigation system
 She is the leading Bollywood star nowadays.
 She is also my favourite actress.
 I have seen all her movies.
 She also anchored the TV show – Khatron Ke Khilari
 I watched this show because of her.
 She has a versatile personality.
 She fits into every role.
 So when she endorses a product, people really want to buy it.
 After seeing this ad I really wish to buy this phone.
 But it is out of the range of my pocket
 I have started saving money for this.
 It is for 24,000 rupees.
OR
An advertisement you like
 Ads are ubiquitous nowadays.

 Ads are all around us on TV, radio, Internet and so on.
 Here I would like to talk about my favorite ad.
 It is of a car, the Nano car.
 It is manufactured by Tata Motors.
 There are numerous reasons why I like this ad.
 Firstly, I like the slogan of this ad.
 It is - Khushion ki Chabi- which means – the key to happiness
 Secondly, the ad is shot in Mumbai and it is a very fascinating city of my country.
 It is picturised in front of the Taj Hotel, which is very famous all around my country.
 The whole ad is very colourful.
 Almost 100 people are there in the ad and all of them are youngsters wearing
fashionable clothes.

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 The main reason why I like this ad is that the theme and story they create in this ad is
just stupendous.
 There is a magician in this ad who changes all the characters from what they are into
new personalities
 He transforms a girl into a bold and dynamic girl.
 In this ad the whole atmosphere is of celebration and all are singing and dancing in
the ad.
 The most attractive thing about this ad is the background music.
 In this ad all the versions off this car are shown.
 The car is available in many colors, like yellow, white, black, blue and so on.
 After watching this ad I have planned to buy this car.
 The car is not very expensive
 I would buy the deluxe version of this car in white color
 I am saving my pocket money so that I can buy this one very soon
 This car would be very useful for me and my family
Cue Card 9: Follow-up questions
1. In general, what are the pros and cons of advertising?

There are many pros and cons of advertising. The advantages are that ads tell us about the
new products. They also tell us about the working of these products. Ads also touch social
issues like female foeticide and pulse polio. Ads help businessmen to sell their products,
which improves the overall economy of a country.
The cons are that sometimes ads make false claims and the products are not that good
otherwise. Secondly, the cost of promoting the product is added to the cost of the product
which makes things costly. Thirdly, ads target children who are vulnerable and are easily
influenced by ads. They pester their parents to buy the products, which upsets the family
budget. Children also copy the stunts shown in the ads and can injure themselves. Finally,
ads create a feeling of inadequacy among people by bombarding them with newer products
every day. In order to buy these products people have become workaholics. Sometimes the
young people resort to unethical means to buy these products.
2. Do you think there's too much advertising in our daily lives?

Yes, there is too much advertising in our daily lives. In fact advertising has become an
industry. It has become the backbone of many economies of the world. Ads are ubiquitous
nowadays. We see ads on TV, newspapers, hoardings and flyers. We also get ads through
the radio, cell phone and the Internet.
3. In what ways do advertisements influence people?

Ads influence people in both good and bad ways. On the positive side ads tell us about the
new products. They also tell us about the working of these products. Ads also touch social
issues like female foeticide and pulse polio. Ads help businessmen to sell their products,
which improves the overall economy of a country.
The negative influences are that sometimes ads make false claims and the products are not
that good otherwise. Secondly, the cost of promoting the product is added to the cost of the
product which makes things costly. Thirdly, ads target children who are vulnerable and are
easily influenced by ads. They pester their parents to buy the products, which upsets the
family budget. Children also copy the stunts shown in the ads and can injure themselves.
Finally, ads create a feeling of inadequacy among people by bombarding them with newer
products every day. In order to buy these products people have become workaholics.
Sometimes the young people resort to unethical means to buy these products.
4. Do you think children are influenced by advertising in the same way that adults are?
No, certainly not. Children are vulnerable and are easily influenced by ads. They pester their
parents to buy the products, which upsets the family budget. Children also copy the stunts
shown in the ads and can injure themselves. On the other hand adults are mature and are not
easily swayed by the ads. Before making a purchase they discuss with friends and family and
do not just rush to buy the product after seeing the advert.

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5. What are the main ways that advertising reaches people?

Advertisements reach people through TV, newspapers, hoardings and flyers. We also get ads
through the radio, cell phone and the Internet.
What are the different forms of advertising that we have in society today?
We have ads on TV, newspapers, hoardings and flyers. We also get ads through the radio,
cell phone and the Internet.
6. How do advertisements differ between the different forms of media?

TV ads are audio visual. They have a better impact than radio ads which are only audio.
Newspaper ads target those groups of people who read those newspapers. For example,
local ads come on the local newspapers. Ads related to jobs come in newspapers such as
Employment News. Magazines also target specific groups of people. For example, sports
magazines have ads related to sports goods.
7. How are advertisements on TV different to those in magazines or on the radio?

TV ads are audio visual. They have a better impact than radio ads which are only audio.
Magazines also target specific groups of people. For example, sports magazines have ads
related to sports goods.
8. Which of those do you think is the most effective means of advertising?

TV is the most effective means of advertising because it is an audio visual medium. TV is the
most pervasive medium nowadays. It has reached every household.
9. What is the purpose of advertising?

The purpose of advertising is to sell products or services. Ads also touch social issues like
female foeticide and pulse polio. Ads help businessmen to sell their products, which improves
the overall economy of a country.
10. How do advertisements achieve this purpose?

Ads achieve this purpose by using celebrities. For example, when Priyanka Chopra says a
face cream is good, people rush to buy that cream. Ads also keep bombarding people
repeatedly about new products. Ads also offer discounts on products to lure people into
buying those products. Ads also offer schemes such as free gifts with their products.
11. Do you think most advertisements achieve their purpose? (Why? / Why not)
Yes, most ads achieve their purpose because ads repeatedly show these products and
people cannot resist buying them. Moreover, people blindly follow those celebrities who
endorse these products.
12. How are these advertisements effective?

These ads are effective because they repeatedly show these products and people cannot
resist buying them. Moreover, people blindly follow those celebrities who endorse these
products.
13. What makes a "good" advertisement?

The celebrities used to endorse products, the jingles used in the ads, the humour used in the
ads and the repeated telecast makes a good ad.
14. In general, what makes an advertisement effective?

ads and the repeated telecast make an ad effective.
15. What makes an advertisement attractive to people?

ads and the repeated telecast make an ad attractive to people.
16. What would happen if a product was not advertised?

The product would not get a good sale. Even if the product is good, people need to be told
that such a product is there in the market. Sometimes ads tell about the working of the
product which is also helpful for the people.

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If a businessman does not advertise, then the product would need a long time to become
popular through word-of-mouth. If a company needs mega-sales then ads are a must.
17. Do you think the contents of advertisements are good?

Generally, the contents are good. Today, we belong to an era of cut-throat competition and
the ads making false claims cannot survive for long. However, some ads show stunts which
mislead children and so are not good. For example the ad of Thumbs Up is not good for
children.
18. Do you think there should be any controls put on advertising?

Yes, definitely. The ads showing stunts should be banned. Ads of liquor and tobacco should
be banned. Ads making false claims should also be banned.
19. Are there any problems concerning advertising in your country?

Yes, there are some ads showing stunts which put bad impact on children.
20. Do you think advertising should strictly give truthful information about the products being
advertised?
Yes, I think so because if ads make false claims then people would feel cheated and would
lose their confidence in ads.
21. Who controls advertising in your country?

The government controls ads in my country.
22. Do you think the government should have stricter control over advertising?
Yes, definitely. The ads showing stunts should be banned. Ads of liquor and tobacco should
be banned. Ads making false claims should also be banned.
23. Do children pay attention to advertisements?

Yes, children pay attention to ads because ads today are very colourful, entertaining and so
attract children.
24. What do you think is the impact of advertising on children?

Children are vulnerable and are easily influenced by ads. They pester their parents to buy the
products, which upsets the family budget. Children also copy the stunts shown in the ads and
can injure themselves.
25. Do you think advertising a certain product can ever have negative effects?
Yes, if and ad makes false claims then it can have negative impact. For example, the ad of
AXE perfume shows that the boy who uses the perfume is followed by girls but recently, I read
in the paper that someone has sued the company as the person who used this perfume for
seven years failed to attract even a single girl.
26. What about adverting tobacco and alcohol - do you think these products should be advertised
at all (or regulated)?
Definitely not! These products are bad for health and should never be advertised.
27. What are some (famous) brands names that are especially popular with young people (or,
teenagers)?
Many brands are popular such as Reebok’s, Nike, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger etc.
28. Why do you think young people are attracted to some particular brands?
Young people are attracted to these brands because they are endorsed by famous celebs and
young people consider them as status symbol. Secondly, some of these brands are very
durable and are good value for money.
29. In what ways are some advertisements aimed especially at young people (or, teenagers)?
Some ads are aimed especially at the young people by using celebrities to promote them. For
example, John Abrahim promotes an oil-free face wash for men. Young people follow such
celebs and rush to buy these products. Bikes are promoted by hot celebs such as Salman
Khan and MS Dhoni to attract the youth.

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30. Do you think the brand of a product is important?

Yes it is important at least for me. I would rather buy one Levis Jeans a year than 5 non
branded ones. I am very brand conscious. It is a status symbol for me.
31. For the producer (the company that makes a product), what are the advantages of having a
well-known brand name?
A well known brand name does not require any effort to sell.
32. Do you think the products with the less well-known brands are competitive with the well-
known brands?
There are many people who cannot afford the well-known brands. In fact in a country like
India with a population of 1.2 crores, the population of those people is higher. So those lesser
known brands also have their own share of sales.
33. Are well-known brand name products cheaper or more expensive than products that have no
brand name (or whose brand name is not well known)? (Why?)
Well known brands are definitely more expensive.
34. Do you think too much money is spent advertising brand name products?
Yes, I think so. These brands use celebs who take exorbitant amount for these ads. However,
now these brands are so popular that they do not need any advertising.
35. What do you think would be the result if less money were spent on this advertising? *
The prices of these brands could come down if less money were spent on these ads
36. Is there much advertising on the internet?

Yes, there is too much advertising on the net.
37. Why do many websites have advertisements?

Websites have ads to make money out of their sales.
38. What do you think of these advertisements?

I think they are pretty good. But, they have a limited audience.
Points for related essays
Advantages of advertisements:
There are many advantages of advertisements.
Firstly ads tell us about new products. Ads also tell us how to use these products. If there is
no electronic and print advertising many new products would not be bought. So, in this way
ads help the manufacturers and consumers both.
Secondly, ads also educate people about non commercial issues like AIDS, deforestation,
and family planning. Advertising is a powerful medium and can reach out to the remote
corners of the country. Finally, the advertising industry provides jobs to thousands of people.
Disadvantages of advertisements:
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages also. Some people, especially kids can be
easily attracted by the false claims made by the ad companies.
Secondly, ads create false needs i.e. promote consumerism. We end up buying and piling up
things in the house, we do not need.
Another disadvantage is that ads are unwanted intruders. Just when a TV programme is going
on, there is a commercial break. Telemarketing is another example. It is very disturbing. Just
when you are doing some important work, you get a phone call to tell about a product or
insurance plan, some surveys also claim that there is an increase in consumption of alcohol
and cigarettes after viewing such ads.
More points for essays - Advertising industry is worth million of dollars across the world.
Points against:
1. Level of ad too much- ubiquitousstreets Buses TV E-mail

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2. Tyranny of choice or choice overload. Research has shown that people are less
happy now than 30 years ago with less choice. Disappointments after buying things
as some ads make false claims. Shoppers guilty of not choosing wisely.
3. Ads can’t be ignored because they use underhand methods like attention grabbing
words and provocative pictures. Some ads are hidden in what seems like pieces of art
or public information.
4. Some ads make people feel inferior ( a feeling of inadequacy) if they don’t have the
product e.g. Amitabh Bachan in the ad of parker pen.
5. Ads don’t have the good of society in mind only profit e.g. fast food ads.
6. Small companies can’t compete with big ads and so lose business.
7. Increase the cost of product as all the money spent on hiring celebs to endorse
products goes into the cost of the product.
8. Ads target vulnerable children who pester their parents into buying those products.
9. Some ads show stunts which may be followed by children and cause injury. For e.g.,
the ad of Thumbs-Up.
SHOPAHOLISM
15. What is shopaholism?

Ans: Shopaholism is uncontrolled shopping in order to feel better about oneself.
Shopaholics usually come back with bags and bags of items most of which will never be used.
16. Can anything be done to solve the problem of shopaholism?

Ans: Many things could be done. The onus is on the person himself
Always pay in cash. Never take your credit card. The best thing would be to destroy the credit
card altogether.
Make a shopping list before you go and stick to it.
Work out a monthly budget.
Avoid ordering goods from catalogues and don’t watch shopping channels on TV.
Consumerism
Advantages of Consumerism
Consumerism possesses many benefits.
There is a greater level of employment as a result of consumerism, since industry depends on
a strong labour force, made up of workers who produce a wide range of goods. Mass
production = mass employment
It provides consumers with greater choice, which can only be beneficial.
Mass production means the prices of things come down which benefits the consumer.
Another benefit is that consumerism increases spending and boosts a country’s economy.
Moreover it can increase its status in the world.
Disadvantages of Consumerism
There are however negative aspects to consumerism.
It can create a throw-away society. This has a negative impact because it can spoil the
environment. For instance, it can create huge amount of waste which has to be disposed off
through the use if landfill sites.
Other problems include issues such as air and water pollution. This occurs as a result of bye
products of consumerism being released and absorbed.
Consumerism also makes people spendthrifts. They waste their energy and money in buying
trivial things.
Furthermore, such attitude of higher spending generates vigour in people to earn more money.
They become workaholics. Cant strike a balance between work and leisure or family and so it
leads to stress.
This leads to an adoption of unethical practices. People want to buy things and they can’t
afford them the right way they may do petty crime – chain snatching, pick-pocketing, shop-
lifting etc.

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10. A Website
Website you visit often
- When you found it
- What it is about
- How often you visit it
- Why you like it
 One of my hobbies is surfing the net and I have visited many sites.
 One useful website is yahoo.com.
 My friend told me about this site.
 It is educational, family friendly, safe for kids and adults and above all it is very easy
to navigate.
 I check my e-mail regularly on yahoo.com. My e-mail ID is kiran@yahoo.com
 I also have yahoo messenger which helps me to chat online with my friends and
relatives who also have this messenger.
 Sometimes I play games online.
 My favourite game is Word Racer.
 It is a vocabulary building game.
 I have learnt many new words through it.
 Yahoo answers is a forum on this site where you can ask any question and you will
get replies from all over the world.
 Yahoo maps is a link on this site through which you can locate any place of the world.
 There is also an astrology link on this site.
 You can do a lot of online shopping at yahoo.
 You can search for jobs at yahoo jobs. You can read the latest news and the latest
advertisements.
 There is something for everyone on this site. I think this is a complete site in itself.

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Cue Card 10: Follow-up questions
1. What are the benefits of the Internet?

There are many benefits of the Internet. Internet has revolutionised each and every field of life.
Today we can video chat with anyone across the world, do shopping from any corner of the
world and study from any college or university of the world.
2. Should the Internet use be compulsory for all students? Why?

The Internet is a powerful tool for the students today. However, I don’t think its use should be
made compulsory. If its use is made compulsory, the students of poor strata may be burdened
with the cost of computers and the Internet connection.
3. Can elderly people benefit from using the Internet, as well?

Of course, the elderly can be benefited the most. They can stay connected with their children
and grandchildren all the time. The elderly have a lot of time at their hands, so they can pass
their time by surfing the net and playing games online. They do not need to go anywhere for
small requirements. They can order anything sitting at home. They can consult any doctor
anywhere in the world by showing their digital scan and X-Ray reports.
4. Compared to several decades ago, do you think the Internet has changed people’s lives?
The Internet has totally transformed people’s lives. Life without the Internet now seems
incomplete. It appears as if one is cut-off from the world and life has come to a standstill. It
has made many things easy, but at the same time increased our dependence on such
technology.
5. What impact has the Internet had on modern people’s lives?

The Internet has taken over modern people’s lives. Every thing they do is dependent on their
Internet connectivity. In many ways the Internet is like power in their hands, but in some ways
the effects are negative. Face to face communication has taken a back seat. People are well
connected online but otherwise are leading isolated lives.
6. What are the pros and cons of children using the Internet?
When children use the Internet, it is very important to see what they are surfing and how much
time they are spending on the Internet. It is very easy to enter sites with obscene content,
which can be very detrimental for children. The Internet can be a very powerful educational
tool for children, but as they are immature to know what is good or bad for them, so they need
to be supervised when they are online.
7. How do you think children could be encouraged to (or, taught to) use the Internet in positive
ways?
First of all, parents should themselves set an example by surfing the net in positive way and
not opening vulgar content on their computers. Then they should monitor what their children
use the net for. Teachers can also play a role in making children aware of the harmful effects
of the wrong use of the Internet. They should be told that if they will use the Internet in any
wrong way then they can be caught by cybercrime cell and the punishments are severe.
Parents can also block some sites, which they don’t want their children to land upon even
accidentally.
8. Do you think online education is good?

Definitely online education is a boon for those who are in remote areas and cannot attend
college or university. It is also good for working people, as it allows them to study at their
convenient time. Those who are handicapped can also benefit a lot by online education.
Students can also get education from the best universities of the world by sitting in their home
country. However, actually attending a college or university has an edge over online
education. The interaction with the teachers and other fellow students has an advantage,
which can never be matched by any online lectures. Practical work is difficult to grasp online.
Extracurricular activities in the colleges and universities go a long way in the holistic
development of students. They develop global network in universities.
9. Do you think the Internet (or, computers) will ever replace teachers?

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The Internet can never completely replace teachers. A computer can tell you whether you are
wrong or right, but only a teacher can tell you where you went wrong. Teachers keep the
students focused on study. Today teachers have raised their level of teaching by using the
Internet to keep themselves updated with the latest academic knowledge. They then devise
their own innovative methods to teach in even better ways.
10. In what ways is the Internet used for entertainment?

The Internet is a powerful tool for entertainment. We can listen songs, download movies and
other videos and also stream movies and see them online. We can join a group of other
people with similar interests and interact with them.
11. Do different age groups use it for entertainment in different ways?

Yes, different age groups use the Internet for different purposes. Online shopping has
become very popular among the young generation. The elderly mainly use it for connecting to
their children and grandchildren, who are living away because of any reasons such as for jobs.
12. What is the effect of Internet on communication between people?

The Internet has connected people and the fact cannot be denied that the young generation of
today has the widest network of friends than ever before in the history of mankind, but face-to-
face communication has suffered. On the whole, people are connected 24/7. Mothers are not
worried is their children are away, as they can call and ask of their wellbeing all the time.
13. What do you think about Internet access in libraries?

Internet access is a must in libraries these days. Libraries with traditional books have their
own importance, but the Internet access helps students prepare assignments and access
those books, which are not available in the physical form.
14. Do you think the Internet is slowly taking over the libraries?
As the Internet has made possible, virtual libraries, which means libraries without walls, so
some people fear that it is taking over the libraries. However, I believe that libraries have an
aura, an ambience, which attracts people to go there. There is an atmosphere there, which
promotes reading, and so the Internet can never take over libraries completely.
15. Does it mean in the future libraries will disappear?

Libraries have their own importance and will never disappear completely.
16. Why is the Internet useful for global economy?

Internet connects the globe. So, global economy is dependent on the Internet. Every second’s
happenings can be uploaded from the Internet. In fact, the Internet is the backbone of
anything we call global. It is the IT revolution, which has brought about the terms such as
global economy. Before the coming of the Internet, even neighbouring countries were not
affected by each other’s economy.

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11. A small business

Describe a small business that you would like to open, (or, start or run or own or
have) if you had the chance
- What is the business
- How you came to know about it
- When will you open it
- How will you prepare for it
-
 I am not sure whether I would do any business in my life because it requires great
courage to take the risk of being an entrepreneur.
 But, if I had the chance, I would like to open a beauty salon.
 My aunt is running one and is doing well.
 She did not do much initial investment but added things as her clients grew.
 I would follow her footsteps because I would get some know-how from her.
 Beauty is a growing business.
 Good looks have become very important in today’s competitive era.
 My mother tells me that earlier a beauty parlour was frequented only my girls.
 But, today men and women both can be seen in these salons in equal numbers.
 If I start off well, I would add some exercise machines also because I feel that beauty
is not just about good looks; a good body is also needed for overall personality.
 Obese people cannot look good by adding layers of makeup.
 I would also hire good dieticians for my salon, to guide my customers about good and
healthy eating.
 It has been well said that – ‘You are what you eat’.
 My clients would stick with me if I provide them all these facilities.
 I know that I will have to innovative and provide good value for money if I want my
business to run well.
 My aunt started two years ago and her client base has grown 10 times. She has
expanded and now she also trains budding beauticians.
 If I do this business, I would like to be as successful as she is.

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1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a family business?
Advantages
It keeps the family together. Family members understand each other better.
Maximum efficiency is ensured. They are more committed than outsiders.
Most family members have solid informal internal training. This is because such businesses
are usually passed from grandparents to children and grandchildren.
Disadvantages
Misunderstandings at home could also be brought to the office and the family expenses could
be deducted from the business.
Some of the family members might become too comfortable knowing that their own family is
working, and as a result there may not be proper planning and budgeting which may result in
misunderstandings later on.
Family businesses also tend to appoint family members even if they lack training or
experience. Outsiders might have ideas and skills that can be useful to the family business
but their ideas won’t be incorporated because they are outsiders.
There can be conflicts among the family members, which may result in total collapse of the
business at times.
2. Are men and women equally good at running a business?

There are no gender differences nowadays. It is a matter of personal aptitude. As more and
more girls are going into management courses, they are successfully entering the world of
business. We have many examples, such as Kiran Majumdar, who is the CEO of Biocon
company.
3. Is market research important for export business?

Yes, definitely. Market research is important for any business and not just for export business.
If China exports those products which are not in demand, then it will be out of business very
soon. Even if we talk about small scale business, without adequate market research nothing
will sell properly. For example in a poor country, branded showrooms will not survive.
4. Is it important to be competitive and why?

Yes, it is very important to be competitive nowadays. We belong to an era of competition.
Today, we are not competing with the person next-door or in the same town or country. We
are competing with the people of a global village.
5. In business, do companies need to be competitive?

Yes, definitely. Business is all about competition. If you don’t compete how can you run a
business? You have to sell your products and for that you have to compete with your rivals.
Otherwise they will succeed and you will lose.
6. Should companies promote competition and why?

Yes, surely. Companies should promote competition because if they don’t compete how can
they run a business? They have to sell their products and for that they have to compete with
their rivals. Otherwise they will fail and others will succeed. However, they should promote
healthy competition and should not use unethical means to compete.
7. What challenges and difficulties people face when they try to have a successful small
business?
They have to do proper market research and see if there is demand of their product or service.
They also have to see if they will be getting competition from the international sector. For
example, a bicycle manufacturer from India may not be able to compete with the cheaper and
better looking bicycles from China. Then there are other formalities like government approvals
etc.
8. What should be the governments’ role in how small businesses are run?
Government should promote small businesses by providing subsidies to budding
entrepreneurs. This way unemployment will be reduced. It should do careful and fair

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evaluation of the business plan of the person and help in all the ways it can. Prime Minister
Modi’s ‘Make in India’ Campaign is a step in this direction.
9. What are the advantages and disadvantages of small businesses compared to large
companies? (Difference between big companies and small companies?)
There are many differences between big and small companies. To begin with, big companies
offer bigger pay packages than small companies. Secondly, these companies give many
perks and bonuses from time to time. These companies give benefits like health insurance
and travel allowance. Another big advantage of big companies is that it is a status symbol to
work in these companies. Furthermore, they provide opportunities to travel overseas.
Moreover, in a big company hands on training is provided to all new workers.
On the other hand, in a small company, everybody knows everybody. You are not part of a big
crowd as in a big company. If you do some good work, you are applauded for it.
If you open your own small business, you are your own boss. You decide your paycheck. The
more you work, the more you earn. The disadvantage is that there is a lot of risk and in case
you don’t do well, you can suffer a heavy financial loss.
10. How can businesses benefit the community in which they are located?
Businesses can benefit in many ways. They can provide scope for many supporting
businesses to flourish. For example, restaurants, hotels, and many more.
11. What kinds of small businesses are most popular?

All types of small businesses are popular. My home town is the hub of small scale industry,
such as motor parts. Jalandhar is famous for sports goods. Ludhiana is known as the
Manchester of India because of small scale industry, especially the hosiery industry.
12. Why do some people open their own business?

Some people open their own business because they want to be their own boss. They know
they can grow big that way.
13. What qualities does a small business owner need to have?

He should have the competitive spirit. Should have the ability to take risks. He should be hard
working and know how to get work from his employees.
14. Are there many big companies in your country?

Yes, there are. India is a fast developing country. There are many Indian companies, which
are very big such as Tata, Mahindra, Godrej, Reliance, Videocon, Onida and so on. There are
also many multinational giants which have opened branches in India, such as Samsung, LG,
Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and so on.
15. How can a small company grow big?

Small companies can do so in many ways. They can work hard, employ skilled workers, focus
on quality and employ good marketing strategies.
16. Should big companies donate more to charities?

Yes, they should. I believe that anyone who has enough should help the needy on
humanitarian grounds. Many big companies help the NGOs and NPOs. This is a win-win
situation for both. When they get publicity for their charity work, they are getting advertisement
for free.
17. Should big companies be punished more seriously if they break the law?
No, they should not. Law should be the same for all – big as well as small companies. Usually,
big companies have big connections. So, they try to get away with their wrong doings. This
also should not happen. Punishment should be equally serious for all law offenders.
Advantages of self-employment
1. Self-employment offers greater freedom than working for a company. You decide your pay
check.
2. Nowadays, it is easy to set up a company. Young entrepreneurs are being encouraged by
loans from the government.
3. The Internet provides a global marketplace

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4. If you do well, you get all the credit, but if you work for someone you are not given any credit if
they do well.
Disadvantages of self-employment
1. However, there are risks to starting a new business. Self-employed people may face financial
difficulties.
2. Many businesses fail to make a profit. There is less stability in self-employment.
3. There are no benefits like pensions, sick pay and holiday pay.
4. Self-employment involved hard work, long hours and total responsibility

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12. An important equipment

An equipment you use at home
- How you got it (or, who, bought it)?
- What you use it for?
- How often you use it?
- and explain why you think this thing is useful?
 There are many tools or equipment’s in my house and I use them for different
purposes.
 The tool I would like to talk about today is the vacuum cleaner that I use to clean the
furniture, carpet and other places in my house.
 I clean my house 1-2 times a week and mostly on days off.
 Cleaning the whole house and the furniture is very time consuming and difficult.
 The vacuum cleaner that I use makes it easy specially cleaning the dust on carpet.
 The machine or equipment is very handy and I find it important to keep our house
neat & clean.
 Our house is just beside the main road and that makes it more prone to dust. Before
purchasing the vacuum cleaner, it was very tiresome and tough to task for us to clean
the house.
 But this has become easier after we started using this tool.
The vacuum cleaner is electronic equipment that requires the AC current.
 It is of Euroclean company and is blue in colour.
 It was for approximately 5,000 rupees
 It does dry as well as wet cleaning.
 It has different attachments for different purposes.
 It has a very nice attachment, which goes under the bed also.
 It is very useful for removing spider webs from the walls and ceiling.
 After plugging in I turn on the power switch and use the long handle that sucks all the
dust.
 I place the front of the machine towards the dust and it gulps the dust and the dust-
filled bags are then emptied in a dustbin.
 The vacuum cleaner is an important tool for me as it does an important task of our
home.
 I remember, before we had the vacuum cleaner, keeping the house spic and span
was a herculean task.
 My mother had the major brunt of cleaning work and she often suffered backache
because of bending to mop the floor.
 Because of the vacuum cleaner, everyone takes turns to clean the house and that too
happily.

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1. How do you think modern technology has changed the way we work (compared to the
past)?
Modern technology has revolutionised the world of work. Today, we can do in minutes,
what earlier used to take days. Maintaining ledger books has become a piece of cake.
Automated machines are doing repetitive monotonous work and humans are enjoying a
much more convenient life.
2. Do you think that operating equipment at work can ever have some bad effect on the
body?
Yes. Operating equipment can have bad effect, if the persons are not trained to handle
that equipment. Accidents can happen and people can lose their lives also if machines
malfunction.
3. Do you think it's important for employees (in-industry) to be trained to use the equipment
at work?
Definitely yes. Training employees is very essential. Otherwise it can be very hazardous.
4. Do you agree that older people have difficulties in using (advanced) modern equipment?
How can we help elderly people to use these modern devices?
Older people are not so techno savvy. They find it difficult to learnt the functioning of
modern gadgets.
5. Are there any disadvantages of using modern equipment too much in the home?
Yes, there are. Young people are so engrossed in these that they forget that they should
interact with other family members. People become so dependent on machines like dish
washers, washing machines and microwaves that all work comes to a standstill if these
things do not work.

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13. A wild animal

Describe a time when you were really close to a wild animal
- What it looks like
- Where can you see it
- What it likes to eat or do
- Why you like it
 India is a diverse country

 There are many types of animals found in India
 There are pet animals, domestic animals and wild animals
 Here I am going to talk about an animal, which I saw for the first time in Mini zoo at
Chandigarh.
 I saw it from a distance of eight to ten feet.
 It is the elephant
 I like it because even though it is a wild animal, it doesn’t seem so intimidating as the
lion or tiger.
 The elephants are the biggest land animals.
 They are herbivorous and can be identified because of their trunk.
 The trunk is the projection of their nose and the upper lips.
 There are two types of elephants, the Indian and the African.
 African elephants are bigger than their Indian counterparts.
 They have comparatively larger ears.
 Among the African elephants both the males and females have tusks whereas, only
the males among the Indian elephants have tusks and so they are called tuskers.
 The back of the Indian elephants are convex whereas that of the African elephants
are concave.
 Indian elephants can be tamed and they are more beautiful.
 Elephants are gregarious animals and live in herds headed by tuskers.
 They have a well structured family life.
 The young ones, called the calf, are looked after by the cow elephants.
 Their cry is called trumpet.
 In India, elephants are captured, tamed and used for various purposes.
 Elephants are among the few animals whose existence is not endangered till now.

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1. Besides the animal you just spoke about, what other wild animals are there in your country (or,
around where you live)?
There are many other wild animals in my country such as tigers, leopards, snakes, camels,
deer, giraffes, rhinoceros, lions, hippos, alligators, crocodiles, monkeys etc.
2. In general, how do people in your country feel about wild animals?

People have different feelings for wild animals. Some people are scared of them, some
worship them, some like them and specially go to the zoos to see them. Some even hunt wild
animals for their body parts.
3. In general, what is the attitude of people in your country towards wild animals?
People have different attitudes towards wild animals. Some people are scared of them, some
worship them, some like them and specially go to the zoos to see them. Some even hunt wild
animals for their body parts.
4. Do you like (all) wild animals? (Why?/Why not?)

Yes, I like all wild animals but from afar. I love to see programmes of wild animals on the
Discovery Channel and the National Geographic Channel and I even enjoy watching them in
the zoos.
5. In general, do you think people like wild animals?

Yes, I think they do. The Discovery Channel and the National Geographic Channel are very
popular. People even go to the zoos to see them. Whenever I went to any zoo, I see a huge
rush of people there.
6. Are there any wild animals that you dislike? Why?

I don’t dislike any wild animal when I see it on TV or in the zoo. But I am sure, I don’t want to
be near any wild animal in reality.
7. What about lions and tigers, do you like them? After all, they sometimes eat people!
Normally lions and tigers are happy eating other animals of the wild like the zebras but only
when humans provoke them that they eat them.
8. In your country, are people's attitudes towards wild animals today the same as people's
attitudes in the past?
Today, the attitude of people towards wild animals is quite different than in the past. Earlier
people were afraid of wild animals and used to worship them. They even used to hunt and kill
them in great numbers. However, today people are more aware about the importance of
animals. They want to conserve them. Some societies such as the SPCA ( Society for
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is taking steps for animal rights.
9. Do people in the rural areas have the same feelings about wild animals as people in the
cities?
People in the rural areas are little less aware about the importance of animals. Some rural
areas are very near the forests. There we generally see news about some wild animal coming
into the village and attacking humans. But this is also because these villages have
encroached into the home of these animals.
10. Do you think (all) wildlife should be protected?

Yes, definitely. All animals are part of an ecological chain. If any link of this chain is broken
then we all suffer. Let us take the example of bats. Bats are on the verge of extinction. If we
do not conserve them, we will be in danger. Let me explain why. Bats eat insects. If bats die,
the number of insects will increase many fold. These insects will eat our crops. So we will
have nothing to eat. So it is very important to conserve all animals.
11. How/why are some wild animals endangered?

This is because of many reasons. We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals.
If they have nowhere to live, they die.

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Even our technology is affecting animals. For example, the rays from telephone towers have
affected bird life. We hardly see any sparrows nowadays.
We are doing unnecessary experiments which are harming animals.
We are hunting animals for meat and their body parts.
So, because of all these wild animals are endangered.
12. In your country, who takes responsibility for protecting wild animals?
The government and some NGOs ( non Government Organisations) such as the SPCA.
13. Are there any special organizations in your country that help protect wild animals?
Many special organizations are there such as The Corbett Foundation, The Wildlife
Conservation Society, Project Tiger , Ranthambore Foundation
14. Is the government in your country doing anything to protect wild animals?
The government of India is doing a lot. There is a special Ministry for Environment and
Forests and there is also an Indian Board for wildlife. They take steps to conserve and protect
wildlife and also spend money on doing research on them.
15. (Similar to above) In what ways are wild animals protected in your country?
The government of India is doing a lot. There is a special Ministry for Environment and
Forests and there is also an Indian Board for wildlife. They take steps to conserve and protect
wildlife and also spend money on doing research on them.
16. Do you think it's (always) worth it if the government spends a lot of money to protect a wild
animal?
Yes, definitely. Wild animals are very important. We are all a part of an ecological chain. If any
link of this chain is broken, we are all affected. Let us take the example of bats. Bats are on
the verge of extinction. If we do not conserve them, we will be in danger. Let me explain why.
Bats eat insects. If bats die, the number of insects will increase many fold. These insects will
eat our crops. So we will have nothing to eat. So it is very important to conserve.
17. Are people in your country very aware about animal protection?
Awareness among people is increasing day by day. But still, there are a lot of people who do
not know much.
18. What do you suggest could be done to make people more aware of this issue?
A lot could be done. The government could aware people through the media. For example,
when the government took the help of media for awaring people about the project tiger, many
people came to know about the importance of tiger and a lot of funds were collected for
saving our national animal.
19. Do you think human activities are affecting wild life?

Yes, definitely. We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals. If they have
nowhere to live, they die.
So our activities are definitely affecting wild life.
20. What are the reasons that some species of animals and birds are becoming extinct?
This is because of many reasons. We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals.
If they have nowhere to live, they die.
So, because of all these some species of animals and birds are becoming extinct.
21. What should the government do for the conservation of these species?
Government should do a lot. It should aware people about the importance of animals.

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It should make laws against hunting and cutting trees.

It should have strict punishment for law breakers.
Wildlife sanctuaries and parks should be made and maintained well so that they can live in
their natural habitat.
22. Why do people like to see animals on TV?

We like to see animals on TV because many species of animals are endangered and on the
verge of extinction and we can see them only on TV.
Moreover, animals are the beautiful creation of God and we feel happy to see how they live in
their natural habitat. We feel enchanted by their pranks. Nowadays zoos are very rare and TV
is the only source to see animals.
23. Why do children like to have toy animals?

Animals enchant children. They love their pranks. They love to play with animal toys. Parents
also provide toy animals because they are educative. For example if they play with a toy tiger
they learn about their national animal.
24. What is the effect of humans on animals?

Humans have a lot of effect on animals.
We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals. If they have nowhere to live, they
die.
So our activities are definitely affecting wild life.
25. How can we contribute to the conservation of animals?

We can contribute in a number of ways.
We can stop cutting trees.
We can stop hunting animals
We can become vegetarians
We can avoid using technology
We should not use leather purses.
We should try to reduce pollution.
We can aware other ignorant people around us of the importance of animals.
26. Is animal conservation important?

Yes definitely. We are all a part of an ecological chain. If any link of this chain is broken, we
are all affected. Let us take the example of bats. Bats are on the verge of extinction. If we do
not conserve them, we will be in danger. Let me explain why. Bats eat insects. If bats die, the
number of insects will increase many fold. These insects will eat our crops. So we will have
nothing to eat. So it is very important to conserve.
27. Do many people in your country have a pet at home?

Yes, many people have dogs as pets. Some even have a parrot as a pet. Cats are not so
common in my country as pets.
28. What pets do people in your country like to have?

People like to have dogs, parrots and cats as pets.
29. Do you think the fish that some people keep at home can be called "pets"?
Fish are ornamental pets. They are not playful. They just look beautiful.
30. Why do some people have fish in their homes?

Having a fish as a pet has health benefits. Pet fish help people relax after a hard days’ work.
Studies have reported that there is a significance decrease in blood pressure readings after
gazing at the aquarium for a certain period of time. At an old-age home, it was noticed that
patients with Alzheimer’s improved because of the aquarium placed on their living room. They
ate more than the usual and took less supplements all because of their fishy friends.
Amazingly, they also became less aggressive than before.

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There have also been studies that IQ of children improves if they gaze at fish in an aquarium.
31. Why do people have (or, keep) pets?

People have pets for many reasons. The most important reason is for companionship. Pets
are playful and can be very comforting when you are alone. Secondly pets are stress busters.
They help you relax. Another advantage is that pets like dogs can give you security. They
warn you if any intruder is around your property. Pets are also good for children.
32. Do you think there are benefits for children to have a pet?
Yes, certainly. There are many benefits of pets for kids. Pets are a wonderful stress buster for
kids. Pets are wonderful playmates and sympathetic listeners. They also stimulate
communication skills in children. Pet ownership is an excellent way to teach children about
responsibility. Pets require a great deal of attention, guidance and care. In return for feeding,
grooming and exercising their pets, children obtain companionship and unconditional love. So,
pets make wonderful, loving companions that offer unconditional love.
33. Do you think having an animal in the home can ever be dangerous?
Yes, having an animal can be dangerous. If the pet is not immunized, it can be dangerous.
Sometimes the pet can turn violent if not treated properly and can bite.
34. Do you think a pet can ever present a safety hazard to children?
Yes, having a pet can be a safety hazard. If the pet is not immunized, it can be dangerous.
Sometimes the pet can turn violent if not treated properly and can bite.
35. What animals do you think are unsuitable to have as pets in the home?
I think it is unsuitable to have big breeds of dogs such as Labradors or German shepherds as
pets if you live in a small apartment because these breeds need space for playing. Otherwise
they can turn violent.
36. Do you think it's cruel to keep a dog in an apartment?

It is OK to keep smaller breeds in an apartment. I think it is cruel to have big breeds of dogs
such as Labradors or German shepherds as pets if you live in a small apartment because
these breeds need space for playing. Otherwise they can turn violent.
37. In what ways do animals bring benefits to people?

Animals bring benefits to people in many ways. People get work from animals. For example
bulls are used to plough fields and horses to pull carts. We get milk and eggs from animals.
We also keep pet animals for recreation and security.
38. What animals have economic value for human beings?

Almost all animals have economic value for humans. Animal parts like the tusks of elephants
and horn of the rhinoceros are very costly. Some animals give milk which is used as food.
Animal hide is used for making shoes and coats. Some people even make money from pet
animals by selling pups. Wild animals kept in zoos also fetch a lot of money.
39. Do animals contribute to the economy of a country?

Yes, animals contribute to the economy of a country. Animal parts like the tusks of elephants
and horn of the rhinoceros are very costly. Some animals give milk which is used as food.
Animal hide is used for making shoes and coats. Some people even make money from pet
animals by selling pups. Wild animals kept in zoos also fetch a lot of money.
40. Do people in your country raise animals in order to make money?

Yes, people raise animals to make money. People raise cows and buffalos, horses, pigs in
their farms to make money. This is called factory farming.
41. Some people (vegetarians) choose not to eat meat. Why do you think they make that choice?
Some people are vegetarians because their religion does not permit them to eat meat. Some
are vegetarians because vegetarian diet is healthier. It has more fibre and less cholesterol
and fat

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42. What do you think about eating dog meat (eating dog / eating the meat of dogs)?
I think it is not good. But I’ve heard that in some parts of the world like China and Japan
people eat dog meat.
Positives of Zoos
1. Zoos play an important role in wildlife conservation. They can help to protect endangered
species
2. Zoos allow scientists to study animals and their behavior
3. Zoos are educational, interesting and fun. Children, in particular, enjoy learning about
animals
4. Zoos provide job opportunities.
5. Zoos attract tourists – economy is boosted
Negatives of Zoos
1. Zoo animals are kept in artificial environments. They are kept in cages or have limited
space
2. Zoo animals rely on humans. They lose the freedom to hunt for food.
3. They best way to save endangered species is by protecting natural habitats.
4. Some people believe that zoos are unethical. Zoos exhibits animals with the aim of
making money. We have no right to use animals for entertainment and profit.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Zoos – Paragraph writing
Animals have been kept in captivity for many years and there are many advantages of zoos.
Firstly, in modern zoos animals are placed in enclosures which try to simulate their
natural habitats. In these enclosures they are protected from their natural predators and
well looked after. The animals are provided with shelter, food and medical attention.
Secondly, zoos provide the public with educational information about animals. They
increase the public’s knowledge of the dangers many animals face and the kind of
habitats they live in. Lastly, zoos often rescue animals which would have otherwise been
killed or animals in captivity which have been treated cruelly by humans.
On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages of zoos. Campaigners argue that zoos
are cruel for animals and that the enclosures where they are kept are far too small. They
also argue that some animals are taken out of their natural environments. Problems have
arisen for animals that are faced with different climates, especially those from hot
countries that then have to survive cold winters somewhere in Europe for example. Finally,
not all zoos provide their animals with the care and attention they require. In some zoos
animals are kept in dirty cages, are undernourished and not given any medical treatment.

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14. A park you visited and liked

Describe a park you visited and liked
- Where is it
- When you went there
- Why you liked it
1. Parks are the most popular leisure places.

2. My home town has many parks.
3. There is one park just opposite my house.
4. But the park that I am going to talk about here is Virender Park.
5. It is about 2 km from my home.
6. My friend, Suman, lives near that park.
7. She took me to that park about 6 months ago.
8. I never knew that such a beautiful park was there in my home town.
9. It is named after Virender Deol, brother of famous film star Dharminder Deol.
10. This is the most attractive and well-maintained park of my home town.
11. It is a big garden having one main gate and two side gates.
12. It has a long jogging track that passes along the circumference of the garden.
13. This offers maximum length to these who want to walk or jog.
14. This park is full of activity in the mornings and in the evenings.
15. This is frequented by people of all age groups.
16. A number of octogenarians and centenarians of my home town can be seen here.
17. There is an NGO in my hometown, which offers free yoga training to people in the
morning and evening.
18. So people come to this park with their yoga-mat and do yoga here.
19. My friend and I also did yoga that day with them.
20. On one side there are swings and see-saws for children.
21. It was so much fun to see little children take turns on the swings.
22. There are many trees in the park.
23. Suman’s father is very fond of topiary work.
24. Topiary is an art in which decorative shapes are made by clipping shrubs.
25. He has made an elephant and a giraffe in one corner of that park.
26. He is very creative.
27. Suman took me there, because she wanted to show me her father’s art work.
28. There are also benches for people to sit and relax.
29. I just loved that park.
30. Sometimes, I go there and sit there for some time.
31. I feel so peaceful after going there.

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1. How often do you visit parks?

I visit parks very often. I go to a park near my home, for morning walk. It is a very nice
park with lots of trees and greenery.
2. Do we need big parks or small parks in the city

We need small parks at regular intervals so that people can enjoy these parks near
their homes.
3. Why is it important to have parks in a city?

Parks act as lungs of the community. They are very important. As it is, we are living in
concrete jungles
4. What kinds of things should a park offer to visitors?

Parks should have shady trees, benches, jogging tracks, rest room and water facility.
5. Should people visit parks every week?

Yes, people should visit parks very often, at least once a week, to be in the lap of
nature and breathe some fresh air.

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15. A speech you heard

Describe an interesting talk or speech that you heard recently.
- Where you heard it
- Who the speaker was
- What the talk or speech was about
- and explain why you think it was interesting.
 I have heard many talks in my life.

 But here I would like to discuss with you a speech which I heard recently in the
environment fair held in my home town
 This environment fair is held every year in December in my home town.
 I was surprised to see my old school principal S. Gurbax Singh over there.
 He is very famous person in my home town and is known for his oratorical skills.
 He talked on the topic of global warming.
 The whole globe is involved in it.
 The way he described the causes and effects was very interesting.
 It was an eye-opener for me.
 He said that we humans are the causes and we humans can lessen it.
 He also told us how the pollution which is caused by cutting trees, having more
industries and cars and other human luxuries - is leading to global warming.
 Then he told us about the effects of global warming.
 First effect is the rise in the sea level.
 This is because of the melting of mountain peaks.
 Second effect is the changing climate.
 We all know that summers are getting hotter and winters are getting colder.
 Finally, we are having epidemics of diseases like malaria and dengue.
 This is because mosquitoes and flies prosper in the heat.
 He also told how to lessen this phenomenon by simple measures like
Not cutting down trees.
Planting more trees.
Using recycled materials.
Saying no to plastic bags.
 I felt very enlightened after listening to his spellbinding speech.
 I try to avoid using plastic bags and also accept recycled material even though quality
is low.

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Cue Card 15 Follow Ups

1. Why do people get nervous when they speak in public?
I think public speaking is the most common fear among people. There are many
reasons why people feel nervous when speaking in public. It may be due to lack of
confidence, lack of knowledge about the subject or the topic, hesitation due to the
feeling that they are being judged or it maybe because of shyness or an introvert
nature.
2. How can they improve their public speaking skills?

Public speaking can be improved by gaining more knowledge about the topic or the
subject. This will build up confidence. It can be practice with friends and family, who
can help improve the speaking skills by giving feedback. We can also make use of
technology by recording our speech and replaying it. And getting a lot of practice
before the actual event helps improve the confidence to speak in front of public.
3. What different kinds of speeches or lectures have you attended in your life?
I have attended many kinds of speeches and lectures that in my life. During my
school and college years, I have attended various lectures delivered by my teachers
or guest speakers, about various topics and subjects. I have attended some
motivational speeches about things like time management, positive thinking, etc.
There are many religious speeches that I have heard at the
Gurudwara/temple/church/mosque. I have also hears speeches from/by political
leaders, usually right before elections. I have attended speeches and lectures about
social issues also, like drug addiction, female feticide, dowry issue and many more.
4. What qualities (attributes) should these visiting speakers have?

There are many qualities/attributes required to be a good speaker, like confidence, in-
depth knowledge about the topic, good memory, ability to keep the audience engaged,
which can be achieved through an interactive session, where everyone in the
audience is involved or maybe by adding a touch of humor. A good command on the
language is also a must and the person should speak clearly and confidently.
5. Why do you many people find it hard to give a talk to young children?
I think it is hard to give a talk to young children because they usually have a very
short attention span. They get distracted easily and it is important to keep them
constantly involved and engaged during the speech. They are not mature enough to
know the facts and there have different strategies used to explain the subject or the
topic to them, for example, by telling a story that they can relate to and understand.
6. Why do you think many people are nervous before they give a speech?
Same answer as for question 1.
7. Why do people give speech to children?

The main reason for giving a lecture or a speech to children is to teach them moral or
social values or to give knowledge about a particular topic or subject. It could also be
used to motivate children to perform better or maybe to become more organized.
8. Who makes people do so?

It could be the parents, the school/college management, local NGOs, government
authorities, like the traffic police, etc.
9. How media relates to the speech to children in school?

Media plays a very important role in everyone’s life these days. The speeches given
to children in schools can be published in newspapers or broadcast on TV, which
further helps spread the message or awareness among other schools/educational
institutions and the children.
10. What kind of people can give speech to children?

People with in-depth knowledge about the subject or the topic and those who
understand that children have a very short attention span and need to be constantly
kept engaged and involved are the ones who can give speech to children.

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11. How about people on normal jobs?

People on normal jobs can definitely give speeches to schoolchildren. It helps the
children understand the importance of various jobs that people do, be it a firefighter or
a bank employee or a police inspector and so on.
12. What’s the aim of giving speeches to children?

Same as the answer to Ques. 7.
13. Do you think people who are good public speakers have talents that they were born
with?
Some people are born with good oratorical skills, but some people can develop these
skills with constant practice
14. Nowadays technology has replaced some aspects of communication. Can you give
any examples of that?
Yes, nowadays people can make presentations, and then it becomes very easy to
speak because they don’t have to mug up things to speak. The points they have to
elaborate on, are visible in the presentation
15. Do you think visual aids are useful when giving a talk or a speech?
(Same as above)

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16. A book you would like to read again

Describe a book you recently read that you would like to read again
- What book it was?
- What the book was about?
- Why you read it?
- What you learned from this book?
- And explain why you would like to read it again
 I have read many books but here I would like to talk about the Wings of Fire” by
Dr.A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
 That is a very good book.
 My friend got this book as a prize when she participated in a declamation contest
 It is Dr Kalam’s auto-biography.
 It was first published in 1999.
 This book became popular only after Dr. Kalam became the president of India.
th
 He was sworn in as the president of India on 25 July 2002.
 Mr Arun Tiwari helped Dr Kalam in writing the book.
 Dr. Kalam says why he wrote his autobiography.
 This book is very motivating.
 From this book I came to know all about the life and achievements of Dr A.P.J.Abdul
Kalam
 Dr Kalam was born in a very poor family in the southern parts of India at
Rameshwaram.
 The reason why I admire him is that his life shows how & ordinary boy from a
deprived class (poor family) could reach the highest level of the nation.
 He became not only the best rocket engineer but also the first citizen of the nation.
 It is true that he described his posting as the president as a piece of luck, but his
achievement as a rocket engineer were absolutely because of sheer hard work.
 He is role model for one & all.
 The success of Dr Kalam depended on the fact that he was willing to grow daily.
 He learned everything that come to him &was looking for thing to learn.
 The real success of Dr.Kalam is in his application of the discipline, what he learned, in
other fields also.
 That is why he could contribute to artificial limbs of lesser weight.
 In him we find a person with insatiable quest for knowledge & with great love for
suffering fellow beings.
 Unfortunately, we don’t have Dr Kalam with us today, but he will live in the hearts of
all Indians.
 I would like to read this book again, because it is a very motivating book.

1. Do people in your country like to read books?
Yes, people of my country like to read books. There are book shops in most towns
and cities, which are all doing good business.
2. What kinds of books are most popular in your country?

All types of books are very popular. India is a diverse country. People have diverse
tastes in everything, including reading.
3. Do you think reading is important?

Yes, reading is very important. It develops imagination and also develops language
skills.
4. Do you think paper books will eventually be replaced by electronic books?

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Not completely, but to a large extent yes. E-books have a lot of advantages
Benefits of e-books over traditional books

Easy to carry while traveling – eBooks allow you to bring a whole library with you
wherever you go. You can switch between titles with ease and the weight is lighter
than a standard paperback.
Need less storage space - Those who own a lot of books know how much space they
can take up, but with a reader, your bookshelf is located on a small handheld device,
your computer or on both.
Less costly - eBooks are often cheaper in the long run because there are no printing
fees associated with them. In fact, you can often find free eBooks online, whereas
physical books almost always cost you something. However, you have to spend one
time on a reader, such as a kindle or any other tablet.
Immediate purchase - When you buy an eBook, your reward is instantaneous.

Whereas if you order a book online you have to wait for it to arrive before the fun
begins.
You can do font adjustments. With an eBook, you can instantly change the darkness
of the lettering or the size of your font.
You can do night reading. If you read in bed, an eBook may be a good option as
many readers come with built-in reading lights.
5. Some people like to collect books. Why do you think they do this?
They do so because they love books. They treat books as collectibles, and are proud
of their collection.
6. Is compulsory reading (in school) is a good idea?

Yes, definitely. In order for students to achieve in math, science, English, history,
geography, and other subjects, reading skills must be developed to the point that most
of them are automatic. Students cannot struggle with word recognition when they
should be reading quickly for comprehension of a text. But the ability to read and write
develops with careful planning and instruction. Children need regular and active
interactions with print.
a. Reading Is A Good Workout

Just like muscles, the brain benefits from a good workout. And reading is more
demanding than watching TV or listening to the radio.
b. Reading Builds Vocabulary

While reading books, especially challenging ones, you will find yourself exposed to
many new words you wouldn’t be otherwise.
c. Reading Helps Self Esteem

Another one of the key reading benefits is that the more you read, the more
knowledgeable you become. With more knowledge comes more confidence. More
confidence builds self esteem. So it’s a chain reaction.
d. Reading Improves Creativity

Reading exposes you to new ideas and more information helps to develop the
creative side of the brain.
7. What books do children read and what do adults read?

Children read fantasy, fiction and books on supernatural characters like Barbie,
superman and shaktiman. Adults read biographies, fiction and religious and spiritual
books
8. Why men and women prefer different books?

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This is because they have different tastes.
9. Why some books become internationally popular?

This is perhaps because, these receive a lot of publicity.
10. What type of books children read nowadays?

Nowadays, generally speaking, the reading habit of the children is on the decline.
Whatever books they read are based on fantasy, fiction and supernatural characters
like Barbie, superman and shaktiman.
50 years ago – Children read a lot. They read moral and spiritual books. They read
animal stories.
After 50 years – I do not think they will do any reading. All the time will be spent in
front of computers.
11. Do you think children have lost their interest in stories?

No, I don’t think that children have lost their interest in stories. However, the stories
they read today are very different from the past.
12. Can story books be an ideal gift for children?

Yes, definitely! Story books can be an ideal gift for children. They can help the child
imagine the characters in the mind which is the first step to creativity. Another
important benefit is that we can impart the knowledge of culture, tradition, moral
values and religion in the mind of the child. This forms the basis of the child’s
personality. Finally, story books enhance the curiosity of the child and enhance their
mental growth.
13. What can be done to encourage the habit of reading among children?
A lot can be done to encourage the habit of reading among children. The first and
foremost step would be to make books available. There should be good libraries in
the schools as well as in neighbourhoods. Story telling competitions could be
organised. If children have to take part in these competitions, then naturally, they
would be encouraged to read books. Finally, books could be made more interesting
by adding graphics.
14. How does reading help a child?

Reading helps to improve concentration. It also helps to improve general knowledge.
It also improves the language skills and satisfies the curiosity of children on various
things.
15. What sort of books can be suggested to children to read?

Children should be encouraged to read religious and historical books. They should
also read biographies and autobiographies of famous people so that they get
motivation from them. They should also be encouraged to read books on science and
technology. However, these books should be made very interesting by adding
pictures.
16. How much should a child read every day?

A child should read half to one hour daily. I think that would be enough considering
that they have to go to school and do their homework as well.
17. What is the difference between the books sold in the past and the books sold
nowadays?
In the past, books related to culture, tradition, religion and history were sold.
Nowadays, books are mostly based on fiction and fantasy.

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17. A person you met and would like to know more about
Describe a person you met and would like to know more about
- Who is he/she
- Where did you meet him/her
- Why you want to know more about him/her
 In our day-to-day life we meet many people.

 Some leave an imprint on our mind and we want to know more about them
 Here, I would like to talk about a person whom I met in my friend Suman’s house last
month.
 It was Suman’s birthday.
 She had invited a few friends and relatives over for lunch.
 It was there that I met her maternal aunt Jyoti.
 She is in her 40s, but looks much younger.
 She was wearing a pink sari, and was looking very beautiful.
 Suman told me that her aunt was a home-science lecturer in a government college at
Chandigarh.
 Suman showed me a cross-shoulder bag, which her aunt had stitched for her birthday.
 It looked like a work of art.
 What impressed me about her was that besides working and taking care of the
household, she still managed to find time for her hobbies.
 She also knew a lot about Indian history which was something even I had an interest
in since my childhood.
 I also came to know that she had won Miss Jalandhar beauty pageant(contest) during
her youth.
 I was just awed by her personality.
 Suman told me that she had learnt a lot of creative things from her aunt.
 I enjoyed Suman’s birthday lunch and then returned home.
 Ever since I met Jyoti aunty, I have been thinking about her.
 I would like to meet her again and know more about her.
 I want to learn so many things from her.
Cue Card 17: Follow ups:

1. How do Indian people make friends?
(refer to follow ups of cue card 1)
2. Who is more important for you, friends or family?

3. Do you like to be friends with someone who is different from you?

4. Do you have any foreign friends?

No, I do not have any foreign friends.
5. Why is it easier to make friends on the Internet than in reality?

People today are leading digital lives. They are online most of the time. So
they are finding it easy to make friends on the Internet. Secondly, they don’t
have to worry about their physical looks when making friends online. They
can make fake IDs and befriend anyone.

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18. Describe a village near your hometown

Describe a village near your hometown
- What is it
- Where is it
- When you went there
- Describe your experience there
 I belong to a small town Phagwara

 It is on the National Highway 44 between Jalandhar and Ludhiana
 There are many villages near my hometown.
 But here, I would like to talk about village Plahi, which is the most hi-tech village of
India.
 Actually, our school took us for a visit to the Plahi village, last year.
 I was awed to see the village.
 This village developed so much because of the efforts of the NRIs of this village.
 The local people of the village set up an NGO – National Rural Development Society
 This NGO has transformed the lives of 3800 people.
 This NGO is providing free internet to all residents.
 There is a big soundproof community hall, which can accommodate more than 1000
people.
 There is a stadium and a polytechnic also in the village.
 It has a well maintained public park and an energy park.
 It is the only village in Punjab, which runs almost entirely on renewable energy
sources.
 Street lights, water heaters, pumps, cookers – everything is solar.
 People have smokeless chullas and biogas plants in their homes.
 No wonder, it is called the energy village.
 Palahi fills people with pride.
 The village makes you think big; it makes you feel small.
 This village surely knows how to dream.
 I remember we were all very inspired by the visit to this village.
1. What are the differences between rural and urban life?

There are many differences between rural and urban life. In villages is slower, and
people are friendlier. In cities, everybody seems to be running after something. Air is
relatively pollution free in villages.
2. What can be done to improve the life in rural areas?

Many things can be done to improve the life in rural areas. Good schools and health
centers could be opened there. The connectivity with the cities could be improved.
3. Does government pay more attention to rural areas or urban areas?

Government pays more attention to urban areas because there are more people
living in urban areas. Mostly the authorities focus on providing facilities in the cities as
compared to the villages.

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19. Describe a gift you gave someone

A gift you gave
- What the gift was
- Who you gave it to
- Why you gave it
- And explain whether this person liked the gift or not
 I have given and received many gifts in my life

 Here I am going to talk about a gift which I gave to my best friend on his eighteenth
birthday.
 It was a mobile phone.
 He had always wanted a mobile phone.
 But his parents would not buy him one
 I saved all my pocket money for five to six months to buy this mobile
 It cost me Rs 2800
 It is a small mobile – a Samsung X-210 model
 It is black rectangular and a folder type model
 It has many features like watch, calculator, FM radio, alarm, timer and a memory card
to store phone numbers
 It does not have a camera but all the other features are very useful
 I saw an ad of this phone six months ago and immediately started saving money to
buy it.
 Then, I used to get Rs 500 per month as pocket money.
 I was so fond of chocolates and candies that I used to spend all my pocket money on
these things.
 But I remember I did not eat a single chocolate those six months.
 I was overjoyed to see the happy look on my friend’s face when I gave him the mobile
phone.
 I honestly feel that there is more pleasure in giving than receiving.

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Cue Card 19 Follow ups
1. What is the importance of gifts?

Gifts are gestures of love. They strengthen bonds of friendship. Gifts make the recipient
feel special.
2. Is there any pressure on us to buy presents?

As such, there is no pressure on us to buy presents. But sometimes when we receive
costly presents then there is a pressure to reciprocate in the same way. Then it may
cause pressure. I believe that gifts should be just gestures of love. Too costly gifts should
not be there.
Nowadays, we belong to a consumerist society. There are so many choices of gifts. This
may seem good to some, but I often get confused when it comes to selecting a gift.
3. Do Indian people often give gifts?

Yes, Indian people like to give gifts. They give gifts on special occasions such as
marriages, birthdays and anniversaries etc.
4. What’s the value of giving presents?

Gifts are gestures of love. They give happiness to the giver as well as the receiver.
5. Describe some of the gifts that Indian people give each other on different occasions.
People give all sorts of gifts to each other. They give sweets, chocolates, clothes,
electronic items or gift cards to their friends and relatives.
6. What kinds of gifts are suitable for friends to give each other?
Friends know each other well, so they can give any gift, which can be useful to the other
person. The gift need not be expensive. It should be taken as a gesture of love and not for
economic value.
7. What factors do people consider when buying a gift for friends?

People consider a lot of things when buying a gift for friends. They consider the friends
requirement and they consider their own pocket.
8. Why do people give presents?

People give presents as gestures of love. Presents give happiness to the recipient as well
as the person who is giving the present.
9. Do children prefer receiving gifts or spending happy time with their parents?
Children are very innocent. They love receiving gifts. They take the happy time with their
parents as granted. So, they don’t give it much value.
10. Compare the kinds of gifts that boys like with those that girls like?
Gender differences are disappearing nowadays. But generally boys like electronic
gadgets and girls like barbie dolls and stuffed toys.
11. Compare the kinds of gifts that well educated people like with those that less educated
people like?
I do not think that the literacy level of the person has anything to do with the choice of gifts.
Every person has his or her own taste. A very educated person may not appreciate a
book as a gift, which may be very much liked and appreciated by a less educated person
12. Are expensive gifts always better than cheap gifts?

I definitely do not think so. A simple inexpensive flower may give more happiness to the
person than a very costly gift.
13. Do men and women have the same attitudes towards gift giving?
There are no gender differences nowadays. Both like to give and receive gifts and even
the choice of the gifts is almost similar nowadays.

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14. How are gifts that people give each other today different to gifts when you were a child?
Today we belong to an era of globalization. The market today is flooded with choices. You
can buy any gift, and there are gifts to suit every pocket. Earlier, the choices were
restricted. Today we have a lot of electronic items also.
15. How are toys today different to toys of the past?

Today we have electronic toys, whereas earlier we had wooden toys and plastic toys.
16. 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 and more electronic gadgets in the future, which the children will play with as toys.
17. 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.
18. When you buy toys for very young children and babies, what should you pay special
attention to?
When I buy toys for very young children, I pay special attention to the age rating on the
toy. I would also not like to buy anything in low quality plastic, because that can be
harmful for the child.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. What could be the result of that? (same as above)
22. 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 then the gifts they give them.

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20. Describe a situation when you were not allowed to

use cell phone
Describe a situation you were not allowed to use your cell phone
- Where was it
- When was it
- Why you were not allowed
- What did you want to do with your cell phone
 Cell phones have become an indispensable part of our lives

 Today, we cannot think of a life without the cell phone.
 There are many places, where the use of a cell phone is very disturbing.
 For example, in religious places like temples, restaurants and hospitals.
 Here, I would like to talk about a situation when I was not allowed to use the cell
phone
 Last month, my aunt had come from the UK to spend a few days with us and do some
shopping for her daughter’s wedding.
 We decided to go to the Golden Temple Amritsar on the weekend.
 I remember vividly, there was a long queue to enter the main building.
 Our turn came after one hour’s wait.
 Just as we entered the main prayer hall, my phone started ringing.
 Everybody turned to look at me as if I had committed a crime.
 I had forgotten to turn my cell phone off.
 There were notices all around that cell phones had to be turned to the silent mode
before entering the hall.
 I cut the call and immediately turned off my cell phone.
 I felt very embarrassed.
 There were so many people there but nobody’s cell phone was ringing.
 After doing the circumambulation of the holy book, we came out.
 Then we went to the community kitchen, where food is served round the clock.
 After another one hour, we came out of the main building of the temple, and then I
switched my cell phone back on.
 There were four missed calls from my cousin
 I called her and told her why we didn’t answer her calls
 She understood.
 So this was the situation when I was not allowed to use my cell phone.

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1. What is the impact off the cell phone?

I believe cell phones have both positive and negative impact on our lives.
Due to the cell phones we have instant access to information and also
because of them we can connect with our loved one’s; anywhere, anytime.
But at the same time if you think about the negative impacts cell phones have
also become a great cause of stress in our lives. The need to always stay
connected is taking a toll on our personal lives.
2. What is the smartphone used the most for?

I think, nowadays the smartphones are primarily used for accessing social
networking applications such as whatsapp, facebook and twitter etc. People
also use them for Official and Entertainment purpose like checking office
email or watching movies and playing games.
3. What is your opinion about selfies?

I believe, selfies are one of the biggest trends of our era. People are not
camera shy anymore and with the advent of front facing cameras on
smartphones they are taking selfies for every occasion and at every place
they visit.

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21. How you prepared for a happy event

How you prepared for a happy event
- What was the event
- When it was
- Who was with you
- Why you prepared for it
 Happy and sad events are part of our lives.

 I have enjoyed many happy events in my life such as marriage parties and birthdays.
 Here I would like to talk about a time when I prepared for my brother’s (sister’s,
nephew’s or anybody’s) surprise birthday party.
 I vividly remember that day because I had to prepare things in advance, as well as
keep things secret from my brother.
 My parents were with me in this birthday preparation.
 We invited all his friends and some children from the neighbourhood.
 It was 26th May and we did not wish him happy birthday in the morning.
 We all did it on purpose.
 He was turning 13 that day.
 We could make out that he was feeling perplexed that we all had forgotten his
birthday.
 Then he went to school and my mother and I started the preparations.
 My mother has excellent culinary skills.
 She baked an excellent vanilla cake and many other snacks like cutlets, fries, bread
toast and so on.
 I decorated the house with buntings and balloons.
 It was real fun.
 I also prepared gifts for some games I had prepared.
 When my brother came home from school, we all were waiting for him.
 I can never forget that surprised and happy look on his face.
 I gifted him a wristwatch on that day.
 It was an important birthday for him as he had entered into his teenage.
 So, we tried to make it special for him.
 We clicked many photographs on that day.
 One photograph has come out very nice.
 We’ve got it enlarged and laminated.
 It is hanging in our living room.

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1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 bathroom singer. Talented people can make others happy with their talent.
4. Do you think money makes people happy?
To some extent, yes, money can buy happiness. A person who does not have the basic
amenities like food, clothing and shelter can get happiness if he gets the money for these
things. But after a certain extent, other things become more important. Good health and good
relations with friends and family are more important which cannot be bought with money.
5. Are the things or events that make people happy today the same as several decades ago?
Things that bring happiness haven’t changed. Celebrations of festivals, marriages, birthdays
and passing exams, all bring happiness even today, but today people can celebrate happy
events together globally through technology. For example my friend could not come for his
sisters marriage as he was away. But, he was all the time there through apps such as skype.
6. Why do people feel happy when they are with members of their family?
Family is like a person’s own body part. Everyone has a strong bond with one’s family. Family
is always with you through thick and thin. So being with family, gives happiness.
7. What are some examples of family activities that make people happy?
Eating together, watching TV together, playing games together, going for outings and many
other such family activities make people happy.
8. Do you think there is any difference between a person’s age and happiness? (Why/Why not).
Do young people and older people find happiness in the same things?
As age advances, one’s priorities change and the things, which give happiness also change.
Young people are happy when they themselves achieve something. Parents get happiness
from their children’s achievements. The elderly are happy if they are fit ant not dependent on
their children.
9. Some people say the happiest time in people’s lives is the period when they are at school? Do
you agree?
I think when a person looks back at his life, he may realise that school days were the happiest.
Unfortunately, when we are at school, we don’t realise this. There is so much competition and
burden of studies.
10. When you are older, what kind of things will bring you happiness?
Achievements of ones children and grandchildren, a fit body and financial security give
happiness in old age.
11. Do you think people in the past were happier than they are now?
Earlier, life was slower and people were more relaxed. So, it appears that people were
happier then. But, I believe that happiness is a state of mind. Those who want to stay happy
can find happiness even in the torrid pace of life today.
12. What makes people happy?

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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.
13. Do you believe that people used to define happiness in a different way in the past, or that the
concept of happiness hasn’t change with the passage of time?
I believe that concept of happiness has not changed with time. But, the way people show their
happiness has changed because of advancement of technology these days. For example,
when India won the cricket World Cup this time it was celebrated all over the world at the
same time. There were firework displays everywhere.
14. Do you believe that old people can be happier than young people?
I believe that old people can be happier than young people because young people today have
a lot of burden on their shoulders. They have the burden of choosing a career. They have the
burden of adopting the culture. They are forced by their parents to adopt the traditional culture
but they want to adopt the global culture. They are exposed to a consumerist society in which
there are a lot of things, which they want to own, but they don’t have the money for those
things.
15. What do you have to do to achieve a long-term happiness?

We should have a steady career. We should have a good family life and good health. One
should know how to strike a balance between work and leisure. One should not be a
workaholic.
16. Is unhappiness always a bad thing?

No, unhappiness is not always a bad thing. It is the unhappiness, which makes us realize the
importance of happiness. It is the night, which tells us the value of day.

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22. Favourite weather

Describe your favourite weather.
- What kind of weather it is
- When this weather usually occurs
- What you usually do during this weather
- Explain how this weather affects you
- And explain why you like this type of weather.
 Weather is a short term atmospheric condition

 It keeps changing every now and then.
 We enjoy many types of weather in India
 We have the hot weather in summers and cool weather in winters.
 The weather in spring and autumn is generally pleasant.
 The weather I am going to talk about here is the pleasant weather we have during the
spring, that is March and beginning of April.
 This is a very welcome weather because it brings great relief from the intense cold of
winters.
 The flowers are in full bloom everywhere, and you can hear the happy chirping of the
birds.
 Spring season gives you a reason to smile.
 It infuses colour in your life.
 The spring season is important for farmers.
 Crops ripen in the fields.
 Farmers store wheat and barley at home.
 Everybody feels a sense of joy and happiness.
 Besides, spring is a season of festivals of the Hindus.
 Holi is a festival of eating and drinking.
 I enjoy it the most.
 Holi adds to the glory of the spring season.
 Days and nights are neither too long nor too short.
 I hate the cold wind of winter.
 I do not like the hot sun of summer.
 I dislike mud and dirt caused by the rains.
 So spring is my favorite season, and its weather is my favourite weather.

1. Do you often pay attention to the weather forecast? (Why?/Why not?)
Yes, I pay attention to the weather forecast on a regular basis. The reason is I travel a
lot and it becomes necessary to know about the weather to be prepared in advance.
Also the climate change has made the weather unpredictable. It sometimes rains
even in the dry season as such knowing the weather on a day to day basis has
become a necessity.
2. How does the weather (or, the weather forecast) affect what activities people do?
People prefer to stay indoors on a hot sunny days or rainy days and go out for picnics
on pleasant days. Also there are things we like to eat in certain weather – for example
fritters in rainy days, ice creams on warm days etc. It also affects the clothing patterns.
People wear light colored loose cotton dresses in summers and dark warm clothes in
cold weather.
3. (Similar to above) How does the weather affect people's daily lives?
4. Why do some people dislike some kinds of weather?

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I think its because weather can limit people’s activities. If weather restricts people
from enjoying their favourite activity, it can make them dislike that weather. My friend
hates rainy days because he likes to play cricket and he can’t do that because of the
rain.
5. Do people wear different clothes in different types of weather (or, different seasons)?
( Same as 2)
6. Does the weather have an effect on the economy?

Yes weather affects our economy. For example due to milder winters, a lot of people
from cold northern countries visit us during that time. Thus it promotes tourism. Also
certain weather like hot sunny days boost earning of local ice cream vendors.
Similarly winters boost the jackets and sweaters industry.
7. (Similar but different) (In your country), are there any differences in economic activity
in the different seasons?
There are differences in certain economic activities. For example warm clothes’
industry gets a boost in the winter season. Similarly farming is also dependent upon
seasons – certain crops like rice is grown in summers whereas others like wheat in
winters.
8. Are there any festivals in your country that are related to a season (or, related to the
change of the seasons)?
Many festivals are related to seasons. For example Baisakhi celebrates the onset of
spring and the harvest season. Teej in Punjab celebrates monsoon. Seasons affect
the agriculture , they determines the sowing and harvest period and there are many
festivals which are linked to agriculture and thus seasons.

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23. A shop that has opened in your hometown

Describe a shop that has opened in your hometown.
- What shop it is
- What it sells (or, what you usually buy there)
- when you first started going to this shop (or, how you came to know about this shop)
- and explain why you like (to go to) this shop.
 I belong to Phagwara, and it is a shopper’s paradise.

 It is a rich town as many people are NRIs and spend a lot when they come from abroad
during vacations.
 A shop, which has recently opened is the Vishal store
 It is on the G.T.Road, just opposite the bus stand of my home town Phagwara.
 It is a one-stop store for all shopping needs.
 Everything needed in day to day life is available under one roof.
 The best thing is that it is easily approachable and has a huge underground parking to
accommodate about 200 cars.
 The whole store is centrally air conditioned and has escalators and lifts for the
convenience of the customers.
 There are four floors.
 The ground floor has grocery and vegetables and fruits.
 The first floor has garments and accessories such as purses, wallets, jewellery and socks.
 The second floor has electronic gadgets and other miscellaneous household items.
 The topmost floor has a food court where we can get pizzas and burgers.
 I go there very often, in fact once or twice a week.
 Sometimes I accompany my mother for her grocery shopping and sometimes with my
friends to do some window shopping.
 I buy all my clothes from this shop.
 It has all the leading brands and also some non-branded clothes at very reasonable rates.
 The thing that impressed me the most is that this store has a membership card system
and offers special discounts for the members.
 The salesmen are very nice and friendly.
 They are always ready to help if you can’t find anything.
 So this is the shop, which has impressed me a lot and I find very interesting.
Shopping in General
1. Do you think shopping is an important part of life?

Yes, shopping is an important part of life. Everybody needs things, and they have to buy
them from the markets.
2. Do men and women have the same attitudes towards shopping?

Although, gender differences are disappearing, but in some ways there are some
differences. Women generally shop for household items and clothes, and men go for
electronic gadgets.
3. Why do you think some people are "crazy about" shopping?

Some people are crazy about shopping because they are shopaholics. They are lured by
the things available in the markets and cannot resist buying them.
4. Why do you think online shopping has become so popular?

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Online shopping has become popular primarily due to two reasons. Firstly, It’s very
convenient for people to buy anything online by just clicking on a button. They don’t have
to spend time on going to shops or in finding car parking. Secondly, ecommerce
companies offer a lot of discounts online, hence making the products cheaper than their
retail prices.
5. Do you think credit cards are a good thing?

In many ways credit cards are good, but there are some disadvantages also.
Advantages
1. Firstly, you can use them practically everywhere, even overseas.
2. They can also boost your purchasing power because they can be used to buy goods
and services over the phone, through the mail and online.
3. They provide financial backup in the event of an emergency, such as an unexpected
healthcare cost, job loss or auto repair. For instance, if a person is on a holiday and
has a medical emergency, he will have no problem in paying the hospital bills.
4. Credit cards allow you to purchase items and pay them off in monthly installments.
5. They also offer discounts and rewards at stores. For instance, when you make
purchases using the credit card you can collect points, which accumulate and can be
used to get free items, such as airline tickets. Some cards may offer cash back as an
incentive to use the card.
6. They can help build your credit history. A person with a good credit history does not
face problems when applying for a loan for any reason.
7. Credit cards also keep a record of your expenses, helping you to monitor your
financial activities.
Disadvantages
1. The most dangerous part of credit cards is not paying them off on time, and once you
fall behind by one payment late fees, interest, and penalties build very fast because of
which many people find themselves sunk in credit card debt with no way out.
2. Another big disadvantage is the hidden costs. There is the start-up fees and
processing fees and also the annual fees, which is quite an amount.
6. How is shopping today different to several decades ago?

Shopping today is very different to several decades ago.
7. Which is more popular in your country, shopping in shopping malls or shopping online?
Both are equally popular. Online shopping is gaining a lot of popularity. Malls also lure
customers by attractive discounts.
8. In what ways do you think "globalization" is changing shopping (in your country)?
Because of globalization, online shopping has become very popular. Even in malls all
foreign brands are available. So globalization has in a way revolutionized shopping.
9. What changes do you think we will see in the future concerning shopping?
I think, online shopping will become even more popular in the future.
10. Which do you think better, buying things online or buying things in real shops?
I think it’s really hard to decide which one is better because both of them offer their unique
advantages. For example, online shopping provides you the comfort of ordering anything
in the world with just a click of a button, whereas retail shopping provides you a great
experience and the ability to feel the product before making a buying decision.
11. How do people pay for things they buy online?

People normally pay through their Credit Cards or use Online Banking for making
purchases. But now a days ecommerce companies have also started providing the option
of Cash on Delivery, i.e. people can pay when they receive the product

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24. A well paid job

Describe a well-paid job you can think of
- Describe why it a well paid
- How you can get it
 There are many jobs in the world which are well paid, such as the job of a teacher, a
doctor, a nurse, a scientist, a politician and so many more.
 Here I would like to talk about a job, which is very well paid nowadays.
 This is the job of a teacher.
 Everyone passes through the hands of teachers in school and college years.
 Teachers are known as nation builders.
 All other professions such as doctors and nurses also pass through the hands of a
teacher.
 I believe that teachers have the power to make the world a better place.
 A teacher is like a candle that burns itself and shows light to others.
 Since age-old times, teaching has been considered a noble profession.
 In ancient India, there was the gurukul system.
 Even the king’s children stayed in the home of the guru or the teacher.
 They used to do the household chores of the guru and in return the guru imparted
knowledge.
 Teachers improve the literacy rate of a country.
 When literacy rate is high, crime and violence go down.
 A teacher requires good communication skills and depth of knowledge of his subject.
 A good teacher should treat all students equally.
 Nowadays, teachers are being paid handsomely be the government.
 This is to lure bright students to join this profession.
 A bachelor’s in education degree is required to be a teacher.
 I believe in enjoying what I do and at the same time I wish to do quality work.
 These children are our future.
 One of my aunt’s is a teacher.
 She is earning handsomely.
 She tells me that she enjoys her job very much.
 I have seen her students give her a lot of respect and love.
 One day, I wish I too become as successful as she is

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Cue card 24 Follow up questions:
1. Do you think you want to be take up this job?

Yes, I would definitely like to take up this job. It requires great commitment
but it is also well paid.
2. Which occupation should be given a better pay?

Teachers, doctors, nurses, entertainers, people in the civil services, people in
the defense, those working in fire brigades, should all be given better pay.
3. Is being rich a good thing?

Yes, being rich is a good thing. Rich people can help others. They can also
satisfy all their needs.
4. Do you think people should save for the future?

Yes, people should save for the future. The future is uncertain. There should
always be some saving for the rainy days.
5. What makes a person choose a job apart from the pay it offers?
Many factors help a person choose a job. The first is money, and the second
is job satisfaction. Then there are chances of promotion. Good relations with
the employers, perks and bonuses.

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25. An incident or situation, which made you laugh

Describe something that made you laugh.
You should say:
what it was
when it happened
who was with you
and explain why you laughed. *
or
and explain why you still remember this event. *
 I have faced many situations when I burst into peals of laughter.

 Here I would like to talk about one when I really laughed from my heart.
 It was my cousins wedding two months ago and we were all dancing on the beats of
DJ.
 The groom’s father, that is my uncle, had taken a few pegs of whiskey.
 He was dancing the maximum.
 His odd and weird dancing steps were very hilarious and everyone was laughing at
him.
 But he was not at all perturbed.
 He was thoroughly enjoying himself.
 My aunt tried to stop him many times but he wouldn’t listen.
 He was wearing a silken dhoti kurta.
 Suddenly he tripped and his dhoti came off.
 That was the most hilarious moment of all.
 The bride and the groom also had a hearty laugh.
 The photographer captured it all very nicely in his video camera.
 Even today when we see that we all have a hearty laugh.
 So this is the situation when I laughed from my heart.
 It has been rightly said that laughter is the best medicine.
 Unfortunately in the fast paced hectic lifestyle of today we are forgetting to realize the
importance of this free medicine.
 Even doctors are recommending this therapy for many depressive disorders.
 Nowadays people have again begun to realize its importance.
 No wonder, we can see many sitcoms on TV nowadays such as Comedy Circus and
Chhote Miyan.
 Laughter clubs have also opened in many cities where people come to laugh out their
worries and stress.
1. What makes people laugh in your country (your culture)?

Humour, Comedy and Jokes make people laugh. We also tend to a laugh in
social situations when we are together with friends and family.
2. Is comedy very popular in your country?

(Similar to above) Are comedy TV shows very popular in your country?
Yes comedy shows are very popular in our country. Nowadays every channel
has a slot for comedy shows. Earlier comedy shows only aired on weekends
but now they also air on weekdays.

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3. Do you think there are any differences between the comedy shows on TV that young
people like and those that old(er) people like?
(The question above might be this) Do you think there are any differences between
what young people think is funny and what old(er) people think is funny?
Comedy makes everyone laugh, both old and young. However there might be certain
jokes that only young people find funny and similarly there might be jokes that might
make only old people laugh. For example jokes about Internet might not make old
people laugh for they are not that familiar with it
4. What do you think are the differences between seeing comedy on TV and reading
funny materials in a book?
The first difference is that watching comedy on TV is a passive experience. It does
not engage our imagination as much as reading funny materials in a book does.
Second, comedy on TV uses expressions of people, books cannot capture certain
expressions. Lastly we can enjoy watching comedy shows with others but reading
books is something we do alone.
(Similar to above) What's the difference between comedy on screen and in books and
comics? FQx2
5. Would you like to appear in a TV comedy program?

Yes, if I given the opportunity I would certainly like to appear in a TV comedy show. I
am certain I can make people laugh.
(If you say yes to the question above) How would you make people laugh?
I can do mimicry of certain actors and actresses. I also know a lot of jokes. Besides
that I will prepare certain comedy skits , if I am given the opportunity.
6. Do you think it's easy to translate comedy TV programs into other languages?
No, it is actually very difficult. You have to explain what the word means in the
language sometimes and the jokes lose their charm if that is done.
Comedy in Advertising (Frequent sub-topic)
7. Is comedy used much in advertisements in your country? (Why?)

Yes , comedy is very popular in advertisements. Advertisements are normally
considered boring because they interrupt the flow of an interesting movie or a show.
Funny advertisements tend to grab people’s attention and hence they are very
common.
8. Do you think funny advertisements on TV are effective?

Advertisements are effective when people remember the product in someway
especially when they are out shopping. Our brain tends to remember funny things and
thus funny advertisements are very effective.
Humour
9. What do you think are the benefits of laughter?

Laughter is very good for health. It not only relieves the stress in our lives but also a
creates a positive vibe which makes others around us also happy.
10. Can you think of any examples of something that some people think is funny when
other people don't think it's funny?

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Yes, there are certainly differences in what different people find funny. For example
there are certain dark topics like cancer, skin color, religion that are not acceptable
(not acceptable – taboo) to some people.
11. Do you think there are differences between what males and females think is
humorous?
I do not think there are any differences in the interception of humour by males and females.
Both genders enjoy the sitcoms in the same way and share similar jokes.
12. Do you think there are differences between what people of different ages think is
funny?
Small children enjoy slapstick comedy more then stand up comedy, whereas older people
enjoy all types of comedy. Slapstick comedy is a humorous acting in which the actors behave
in a silly way such as by throwing things falling over and making funny faces. On the other
hand, standup comedy is performed by a single person telling jokes.
13. Why do you think some people find something funny that others think isn't funny?
(Same as answer 10)
14. Do you think people today are happier than people were before?
No, I don’t think people are happier than the past. The modern fast paced life has
brought stresses and tensions in life. Earlier people used to relieve their stress by
talking to people but now as everyone is busy in their own lives, it is no more possible.
15. Do you think people's idea of "happiness" today is different to the way they thought
about happiness in the past (e.g., 20 to 50 years ago)?
Yes, the definition of happiness has changed over changed. Today wealth is equated
to happiness. Owning a new iphone, an expensive car makes people happy. Earlier it
was more about spending time in the company of friends and family that brought
people happiness.
16. Does being part of a family make people feel happy?

Being a part of a family gives us an identity. Sharing our joys and sorrows with our
family makes us happy.

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26. Describe a popular place where people like to

go swimming
Describe a popular place where people like to go swimming.
You should say:
- Where is it
- What it is like
- Who likes to go there
- Why it is a popular place for swimming
 Swimming is a very relaxing exercise.

 There are three swimming pools, which are popular in my hometown.
 One is in the Latitude Gym
 Another one is in the City Club and the third one is in The J.C.T.Mill
 Here I am going to talk about the JCT mill swimming pool, which is the most liked by the
people.
 This is the best swimming pool in my hometown.
 The pool is free for the employees of the mill and their families but outsiders need a
special permission.
 This pool is situated inside the mill, which is in the heart of the city.
 It is very beautiful.
 It is very neat and clean.
 The water is filtered every week.
 That is why most people like to go there instead of other places.
 I also go there with my friends during the summer vacations.
 There are 5 trainers who teach swimming.
 The fee for learning swimming is also very nominal.
 There are shower rooms for people to change and take bath later on
 The pool has different depth levels on different sides.
 Beginners are only allowed the shallow side.
 The maximum depth of this pool is 16 feet
 There is also diving facility
 So, this is the swimming pool, which I like the most.

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1. Is it important to swim?
Yes, it is very important to swim. Swimming is a great recreational activity.
Apart from being fun it is a great way to keep fit. It is a new impact activity that
has many physical and mental health benefits.
2. Should children learn how to swim?

I think that boy children should learn how to swim, and that too as early as
possible. Water is all around us, even if it is a bath tub. Children should be
comfortable with water. Secondly, swimming is a fun activity. If children were
given this opportunity, they would do it readily. This will also keep them
physically fit. As it is, childhood obesity is on the rise. Many modern schools
have swimming pools in their campuses. Swimming also releases endorphins,
which aid in decreasing stress and improving mood.
3. Who can teach swimming well?

Swimming can be taught by swimming instructors, who themselves know
swimming very well. It is important that the instructor is certified by proper
authorities.
4. Why can swimming help people become healthier?

Swimming can help people become healthier as it is a low impact aerobics
exercise. Swimming also releases endorphins, which aid in mental health.
The joint movement made in water has been seen to prevent and cure
arthritis
5. Should a city have a lot of sports facilities?

Yes, a city should have a lot of sports facilities, because it would encourage
people to come out and do sports. As it is, lives have become sedentary, and
so it has become even more necessary to have such sports facilities as
stadiums, swimming pools and other playgrounds.

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27. Describe an occasion when you received a

good service from a restaurant or a shop
Describe an occasion when you received a good service from a restaurant or shop
You should say
What the service was
When and where you received the service
Whom you were together with
And explain why you think it was a good service
 I am a shopaholic and I love to purchase things.

 Here I would like to talk about a situation when I received a very good service from a
shop in a shopping mall in Jalandhar.
 Last month I went there with my cousins to buy some clothes for myself.
 I wanted to buy a pair of jeans and I had heard about this shop in Viva Collage which
sells jeans of all top brands.
 We went straight to that shop and the salesmen welcomed us with smiling faces.
 They started showing us various varieties and allowed us to try them on.
 We were very happy to know that Levis company was offering a deal.
 We picked out the colours of our choice and happily made the purchase.
 Two jeans needed slight alterations in length which they got done within an hour at no
extra cost.
 We were very happy with their prompt service.
 Later on we enjoyed at the mall and had lunch there at a food outlet.
 In the evening we watched a movie in the same complex.
 When I came home and showed my jeans to my family, they also liked it a lot.
 I refer that shop to all my friends and relatives because of their services.
- (Another idea)
 I am a shopaholic and I love to purchase things.

 Here I would like to talk about a situation when I received a very good service from Dell
company which deals with computers.
 Last year I made an online purchase of Dell laptop
 I bought the latest version with an 15 processor and 600 GB hard drive.
 It was the first time I had bought anything online.
 When I received my laptop, I was very happy.
 It was very nicely packed and delivered to me.
 It came with a one year guarantee.
 It worked very well for the first ten months, but after that it started giving problems.
 It would hang very often and the battery back-up became very less.
 Fortunately it was within warranty period.
 I called the Dell Company and told them about my problem.
 They assured me that within 24 hours, their representative would come and do the needful.
 The very next day, their person came and checked my laptop.
 He replaced my laptop's battery and also sorted out the other problems.
 He advised me to use the laptop with a cooling pad if I have to use it for long hours.
 I did not have to pay a single penny.
 I told about this to my friends and they were also surprised at such good
after-sale services.

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 Now my laptop is as good as new and I am not facing any problems.

 I would definitely recommend everyone to buy Dell laptops.
Follow ups cue card 27
1. What jobs requires staff to get in touch with many people?

There are many jobs which require their staff to be in touch with people, such as the
jobs of salesmen, some jobs related to go field work, Jobs in banks and malls,
teaching jobs and so on.
2. What qualities does the staff need? Why?

The staff needs good communication skills. They need to be polite all the time, and
also have a lot of patience. They need to have good knowledge of what they are
selling.
3. What’s the difference between services in big shops and small shops?
In big shops, things are displayed, and you can pick up what you need, but in small
shops, the salesman guide and personally show you what you ask for. They even
guide do about the products. The return policies of big shops are better than those of
smaller shops. Big shops offer more variety of products, whereas small shops have
less variety.
4. What should people do when they get bad service?

People should complain if they get bad service. They can complain to the store
manager or the company of which they have got the product.
5. Why do some people not know what service is good?

Some people do not know what service is good, because they have not compared
with the other stores or the other brands.

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28. Describe a new/exciting activity that you want to

try for the first time
You should say:
- What it is
- Where you can do it
- How you would do it
- And explain why you feel excited
 There are many exciting activities, which I would like to try for the first time.
 I would like to do bungee jumping, paragliding, under-water walk and white water
rafting, but I know these activities can only be done in special places.
 Here I would like to talk about one activity, which I would like to do, and fortunately it
can be done in my hometown and that is to attend Zumba Fitness classes.
 My cousin attends Zumba classes in the UK, and she has become very fit.
 She used to be very fat, but now she has the body of a model.
 A gym in my neighbourhood, by the name of Fire Dance and Fitness studio has
started Zumba classes.
 They have hired a certified Zumba instructor, who is giving training there.
 Zumba involves dance and aerobic movements performed to energetic music.
 The name "Zumba" has no particular meaning, it was chosen arbitrarily as a
brand name.
 I would like to join those classes and become fit.
 Each class is typically one hour long and one can burn 500-1000 calories in one class
depending on the energy one puts into it.
 First I would enroll in Zumba Gold classes, which are for the beginners and the elderly.
 Then I would do the Zumba Step, which is for the lower body.
 I am very excited that such a facility has come in my hometown.
 I am looking forward to joining these classes.
 I find the routine gym exercises very boring.
 The best thing is that these exercises are not risky.
 So, this is the exciting and new activity I would like to try for the first time.
Follow Up Questions
1. Do you like to do risky things?

Yes, I like to do risky things. I like fun and adventure, but I do not take too much risk,
which can cause danger to life.
2. Why is good to be adventurous?

It is good to be adventurous because adventure adds a spark to life. But being too
adventurous and risking one’s life is also not good.
3. Does it benefit people when they try new things?

When people try new things, it may or may not turn into their favor, but it always teaches
them something.
4. Why do some people eat the same things all the time?
Some people eat the same things all the time, because they do not like to try new things.
They don’t want to take any risk. They feel that the new thing which they eat may not be
good for their health.

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29. Describe your favorite movie

You should say:
- When and where you saw it;
- What type of film it was;
- What the film was about
- And explain why it is your favourite film
 Watching movies has always been the prime recreational activity for the Indians
 But in the last few years, movies have graduated to a different level.
 They are not only entertaining but also full of substance.
 Last weekend my friend Param bought two tickets for the latest block buster Dangal.
 Although I was tired and wanted to relax for the weekend, yet I accompanied him on
his insistence
 This is a very inspiring movie.
 The story revolves around the life of a sportsperson who has not been able to achieve
the desired goal
 He doesn’t lose hope, and instead he channelizes his energies in guiding and training
the young girls of his village
 Geeta and Babita, two sisters are coached in wrestling by him
 They do not succeed in the first attempt.
 But he encourages and imparts rigorous training .
 Finally they bring laurels to the country in the commonwealth games.
 This is my favourite movie as I am a sportsman /woman too
 We get Goosebumps while watching the matches
 It is not only a good example of modern cinematography, but also a marvel in good
direction.
 This is one movie, which I can watch again and again.
Follow Up Questions
1. Do you think (watching) films have (has) any educational benefits?
Yes, watching films has a lot of educational benefits. Some movies are based on events
that actually happened. Historical films offer insight about how life was in the past. Movies
expose us to various cultures. Documentaries provide educational benefits and are very
interesting to watch. By watching English films one can develop one’s English language.
2. In what ways are documentary films and films only for entertainment different?
 Feature films are mainly made to entertain the audience, whereas documentaries are
meant to inform, to confront people with reality, and sometimes to promote a point of
view.
 Feature films are mostly fiction, and sometimes total fantasy. They may be based on
real events or people, but the director and screenwriter do add some drama to it.
 Documentaries are usually low-budget, whereas feature films can cost crores.
3. Why do you think documentary films are not so popular?

Documentaries are not so popular, because they don’t have big name actors and
actresses, and also are low budget. So, people are not fascinated by them.
4. How are movies and real life different?

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Real life is very different from movies. Movies are mainly based on fiction, and even if
they are based on real life, some element of drama is added to them.
5. Do men and women like to watch the same kinds of films?

Mostly women like to watch romantic movies, and family movies, being as many like to
watch action movies. But these differences among genders are fast disappearing.
6. Do different age groups like the same kinds of films?

No, children like animation and cartoon movies, Young editors like action movies and
sports movies, elderly people like historical movies and family movies.
7. Do you like any particular film star? Why?

I like Amir Khan the most, because he’s an actor par excellence. He lives his role.
Recently in his movie Dangal, he actually puts on 20 Kg, because the character
demanded it.

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30. Describe a kind of foreign food you have had

You should say:
- When you had it
- Where you ate it
- What it was
- and how you felt about it
(Please check the pronunciation of pizza – peetza - Wrong pronunciation would be a blunder.
 Normally I eat traditional Punjabi food, but I love Chinese noodles and Italian pizza.
 I have had Chinese food many times and also the pizza.
 Here I would like to talk about a time when I ate the pizza for the first time.
 I vividly remember I was in tenth class, and during my summer vacation I went to stay
with my cousin in Chandigarh.
 It was his birthday, and he threw a pizza party for his friends.
 His mother that is my aunt, is an excellent cook.
 I was awed by her culinary skills.
 He had invited six friends.
 First we went to the market and bought 20 Pizza base, Pizza cheese, Pizza sauce,
capsicums, onions, carrots, mushrooms and mayonnaise.
 We also bought seasonings, such as chili flakes, basil, oregano and so on.
 That day I enjoyed learning how to make the pizza. I helped in chopping the
vegetables and grating the Pizza cheese.
 Then we went to get ready, and by the time we got back, my aunt had started making
the pizzas in the oven.
 His friends started pouring in, and we all started eating the pizzas.
 The pizza base was very crisp and yet the pizza was melting in my mouth.
 Honestly, when my cousin bought 20 pizza base, I thought he was mad. Who would
eat so many pizzas?
 I thought we would have to eat the leftover pizzas in the morning
 But when I took the first bite, I realized how wrong I was.
 In no time, all the pizzas were finished.
 Now, the Domino’s pizza outlet has opened in my hometown and I have tried their
pizzas a couple of times, but no one can beat my aunt’s pizzas.

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Follow Up Questions
1. Do you like to try new food?

Yes, I like to try new food, because by trying new foods I come to know about different
cuisines. When I eat Chinese food, it makes me want to know about their culture. I am a
food lover and I enjoy different dishes.
2. What kinds of foreign foods are popular in your country?

Chinese food like the Manchurian, cheese chilly, chop suey is very popular. Italian pizza
is also very popular. Mexican burrito wraps are very similar to Indian chapatis.
3. Do you like to cook at home?

Yes, I like to cook at home. I like trying new dishes everyday. I have learnt a lot of Indian
cooking from my mother. She has excellent culinary skills.
4. Is it expensive to eat out in your country?

It depends on where you go out to eat. If it is a roadside dhaba, it can be afforded by most,
but expensive restaurants are also there, where one cannot afford to eat very often.
5. What's the difference between Indian food and western food?

Indian food is spicier than western food. It is cooked in oil or ghee, which makes it heavier
calorie wise. It is more diverse. North Indian cuisine is poles apart from South Indian.
Western food does not have so much diversity.

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31. Describe a bicycle/motorbike/car trip that is

interesting
You should say:
- where you would like to go;
- how you would like to go there;
- who you would like to go with;
- and explain why you would like to go there by car, motorbike or bike
 I have never been on any bicycle or motorbike trip

 So here I would like to talk about a car trip that I found really interesting
 Last year my cousin came from Canada and he wanted to see Rajasthan.
 My maternal aunt and uncle live in Jaipur
 So we decided to visit Jaipur in Rajasthan.
 It was too late for train reservation, as my cousin had come for two weeks only.
 My uncle has a Toyota Innova, which is a seven-seater car and so my father
borrowed it from him for a week.
 We were six members my father my mother my brother my cousin my uncle and I
 We started at 6 AM
 During our journey we halted at many places
 We first stopped at Murthal, where there is a famous Motel, Jhilmil Dhaba, where we
had our lunch
 Then we stopped at Delhi for tea.
 We had minor halts at one or two more places
 Finally we reached my aunt’s house by 7 PM
 She had prepared sumptuous dinner for us
 The next morning we went for sightseeing
 We saw many places such as the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amer fort, Maharani
Palace and so on
 The next day we went to Chokhi Dhani
 This place has been the mirror of Rajasthani culture since 1989
 We learned a lot about Rajasthani culture over there
 Live dances and music performances went on throughout the evening
 Dinner was included in the entry ticket, and so we had dinner over there only
 The next day we did some shopping
 We enjoyed the hospitality of my aunt and uncle.
 We returned home after one week
 This road trip to Rajasthan will always hold pleasant memories for me.

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Follow Up Questions
1. Do Indian people prefer to travel by car or by train?
Four long journeys people generally travel by train, but for shorter journeys people prefer
their own car. It also depends on whether the person is going alone or with family. A
single person generally prefers the public transport but when one travels with family, then
car proves cheaper.
2. What are the advantages of travelling with a group of people?

There’re many advantages of traveling with a group of people. Firstly it is secure, as there
is always security in numbers. Secondly, it can be cheaper to travel in a group. Also, if
you’re traveling in a group, such as when you take a package holiday, you may develop
friendships for a lifetime.
3. Should young people travel abroad?

Definitely, young people should travel abroad. They can learn a lot, and can develop
networks, which may help them in the future careers.
4. Where do Indian people like to travel?

Indian people like to travel to many places. Within their country, they go to hill stations or
beaches. They also travel to foreign countries.
5. Is international trip popular with people in your country?

Yes, international trips are popular with people in my country. There is hardly any place in
the world where Indian people have not travelled to.

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32. Describe a place in other countries where you

would like to work for a short time
Describe a country in which you would like to work for a short time
- Where you would like to work
- What kind of job would it be
- When would you like to go
- Why you want to work 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.
 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.
 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 work in Canada for a short time

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Follow Up Questions
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.
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, the USA, etc. I have heard form 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.

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33. Describe a time you had good experience in the

countryside
You should say:
- Where you went
- What you did
- When you did it
- Who you went with
- And explain why it was enjoyable?
 I belong to Phagwara.
 It is a small town, and there are many villages near my hometown.
 My maternal uncle and aunt have a farmhouse in a village near my hometown.
 Their farmhouse is it the centre of lush green farms.
 Last year, they invited us over to stay with them for a few days.
 Their farmhouse is very well maintained, as they have given a portion of it to a family
who stays there and looks after it.
 They have maintained a very good kitchen garden, and I remember, the whole week
we enjoyed fresh veges from our garden.
 They had grown aubergines, okra, bottle gourd, broccoli, cauliflower, mint, coriander
and green chilly.
 My uncle is retired from the agriculture department, and he knew a lot about organic
farming.
 He never sprayed any insecticides and pesticides and even prepared compost at
home from the kitchen waste.
 Those vegetables tasted different.
 What we eat in the cities has so much spray of insecticides and pesticides, that the
taste of veges is different.
 It was so much fun.
 They have 4 dogs, two pugs and two german shepherds.
 Every morning, we used to go for long walks in the fields, and the four dogs would
walk by our sides without their leashes.
 In the cities, you always have your leash your dog while going for a walk.
 After the walk, we would all eat delicious parathas with butter made by my aunt.
 We played badminton in their courtyard, and sometimes we also played Frisbee.
 The air also seemed fresh and pollution free.
 The atmosphere was so calm and quiet. There was also no noise pollution.
 They have such a peaceful life, with absolutely no hurry and worry.
 I look forward to going and staying with them again this summer.

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Follow Up Questions
1. Do young people enjoy living in the countryside?

No, most young people don’t enjoy living in the countryside. Actually there
are less facilities in the countryside. The entertainment facilities are also few
in the countryside.
2. Do old people prefer to live in the countryside or in the city?

Old people prefer to live in the countryside, because they like the fresh air
and the slow life of the villages.
3. Why do many people move from small towns to big cities?

Many people move from small towns to big cities in such a better career
options and better facilities for their children.
4. What’ s the difference between living in the countryside and living in the city?
5. How has life changed in the countryside in your country?

Life has changed a lot in the countryside. That is better connectivity with the
cities. The villages, which are near the cities, have developed a lot, whereas
those, which are in remote areas are still neglected.

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34. Describe a decision made by others that you

disagreed with
You should say:
- What the decision was
- How it was made
- What you disagreed with
- And explain why you disagreed with it
 We all have to make decisions from time to time.

 Some decisions are agreed upon by all, whereas some decisions are not liked by all.
 Here, I would like to talk about a decision, which was made by my two friends Raman
and Sunder, when we were in 10th class.
 They decided to bunk school and go to watch a movie in a multiplex.
 I disagreed strongly.
 First of all, the idea of bunking school did not seem right to me.
 Then, going for a movie without parents’ permission was out of question as far as my
thinking was concerned.
 I advised them to go for the movie on a Sunday, in the morning show, after taking
permission from our parents.
 But they were adamant, and were forcing me also to accompany them.
 I was in a dilemma, as I did not want to disappoint my friends.
 But, my father is very strict.
 I knew that if he found out, he would be very upset and may even not talk to me for
days.
 I could not even bear to think of that.
 So, I said a firm no to my friends and again tried to dissuade them from bunking
school.
 They, however, did not agree and went for the movie.
 I remember, I felt very light at heart for not going with them.
 I cannot even think of lying to my parents, or hiding anything from them.
 So, this was the decision made by my friends which I did not like.

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Follow Up Questions
1. What skills are necessary when making decisions?

Every person has to make decisions from time to time. A good decision requires both
head and heart. Decision-makers need to ask themselves whether that decision makes
sense, and also whether it feels right.A good decision requires a good insight into what all
the outcomes of that decision could be. It needs rational thinking and a little bit ability to
look into the future.
2. How can people improve their decision-making skills?

With experience, the decision-making skills automatically improve. People are just have
to keep in mind, what all outcomes could be, and also be ready to face the consequences,
what ever they are.
3. How do you think computers will change the way people make decisions?
Computers can change the way people make decisions, as now through computers,
people can post their dilemmas in many forums and take advise from other people who
have faced similar situations.
4. Do parents in India allow their children to make important decisions about the future?
No, parents in India generally like to make important decisions about the future of their
children. They like to have their say when their child has to choose his future career, and
also when he has to choose his met his partner
5. Do you think that parents should make important decisions for their children?
I think parents should have a healthy discussion with their child when he has to make a
decision, and then let the child have the final say.

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35. Describe an activity that is a little expensive

You should say:
- what it is;
- how much it usually costs;
- who you usually do it with;
- and explain why you like to do this activity.
- I Why do you think some people strongly dislike playing sports
 There are many hobbies, activities and sports that are expensive to pursue.
 Some of these are sports like golf and hobbies like photography.
 These days eating out and watching a movie in cinema has also become a little
expensive.
 I would like to speak about an activity that I often do, which is a little expensive.
 It is eating out at a local restaurant, in the hotel Cabanna.
 It is an expensive activity because one meal there costs around Rs. 1000 per person.
 I usually go there with my family and friends, to celebrate special occasions.
 We celebrate special occasions there around 3-5 times a year.
 I like eating there with family or friends because their food is really tasty and they are
very consistent in terms of the quality of their food and the taste.
 Also, the ambience there is very nice.
 Their restaurant is very tastefully decorated.
 They have very nice works of art that are big paintings that are hung on the walls.
 I am always fascinated by these beautiful paintings.
 They have live music playing every evening, which adds to the experience of eating
there.
 They have recently added a menu in which there are dishes that have pure gold as an
ingredient.
 These dishes are very expensive.
 A famous chef, Chef Harpal, has created these dishes.
 Whenever we go there, we enjoy the food, the live music and the beautiful ambience
that is created by the lighting, furniture and other décor.
 Even though it is an expensive activity, we visit it once every 2 or 3 months.

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Follow Up Questions
Expensive activity
1. What sports are popular in your country?
There are many sports that are popular in my country, like cricket, hockey, football,
kabaddi, badminton, swimmimg, wresting, etc. In fact cricket is followed like a religion
in India.
2. What are the major differences between ‘extreme sports’ and ordinary sports?
The major difference between extreme sports and ordinary sports is the risk of injury
is higher in the former. Most of the ordinary sports can be played anywhere there is
open space, however, the extreme sports require a specific kind of a location and
proper set up, with all the safety and security measures followed. For example, cricket
can be played in any open space, children in India also play it on the streets. However,
bunjee jumping cannot be performed anywhere and without a proper guide and an
instructor.
3. What do you think of expensive sports?

I think that the expensive sports are as good as any other sports, however, everyone
can’t afford playing them. These sports require special equipment and a special kind
of an environment that makes them expensive. For example, golf. A golf set is very
expensive and getting access or a membership to a golf range also costs a great deal.
However, the health benefits of this sport can be compared to any other sport.
4. Why do some people strongly dislike playing sports?

Some people strongly dislike sports because they do not understand the benefits of
playing sports. Some people think of it as a waste of time, as they may value money
over fitness and happiness. They think that such activities are a waste of time and do
not have any value.
5. Do you think people should be encouraged to try some of these extreme sports?
Yes, I think people should be encouraged to try some of the extreme sports, as there
is a lot to learn from such sports. It helps boost the confidence, overcome challenges,
promotes physical and mental fitness.
6. Do you like to (or would you like to) do a rather dangerous sporting activity?
Yes, I would like to try extreme sports. In fact, my cousin tried white water river rafting
and bungee jumping earlier this year in Rishikesh. He has told me that it’s exciting
and exhilarating. I am now planning to try these sports next year.
7. Why do you think some people like to do these dangerous activities?

I think people have different reasons to do these activities. Some do it to earn name
and fame. Some want to overcome their fears, like the fear of heights or the fear of
drowning and so on. These activities help boost confidence and promote self-esteem.
Many people want to try these challenging activities and feel the adrenaline rush and
excitement.

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36. Describe a family member who has had

important influence on you
Describe a family member who has had an important influence on you
You should say:
- Who the person is
- What kind of person he or she is
- What this person has done to influence you
- And explain why you think this person is important to you
 All our family members influence us in some way or the other.

 Here I would like to talk about a person who has had the maximum influence on me.
 This person is none other than my father.
 His name is Dayal Singh, and he’s in his mid-50s.
 He is tall and handsome, and looks much younger than his age.
 He generally wears pant shirt, but sometimes he wears kurta pajama.
 He is a very disciplined person.
 He’s very humble and polite by nature, and everyone in our family and neighborhood
loves him.
 He believes in leading by example.
 He gets up early in the morning, and motivates us also to do the same.
 He is very health-conscious, and guides us also to eat healthy.
 We live in a joint family, and he’s very caring towards my grandparents.
 Whenever he has time, he helps my mother in the household chores.
 He’s very particular that at least one meal of the day, should be shared by the whole
family.
 During that meal we all family members share our days happenings with each other.
 My father is also very helpful.
 Whenever anybody in the family or neighbors come to him for help, he goes out of the
way to help them.
 I have seen the look of admiration for him in everyone’s eyes.
 Because of this reason, I would like to be like him.
 He is not just my father, he is also my friend and guide.
 I love him the most in this world, and pray to God for his long and healthy life

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Follow Up Questions
1. These days, people from different generations live together, do you think this is a
problem?
No, I do not think this is a problem. In fact I think it is pretty good. Joint families have a lot
of advantages. In joint families, young parents do not have to worry about their children.
The grandparents are there to look after them. The elderly people of the family are also
looked after well. They do not suffer from social isolation. So it is a win-win situation for all.
2. Why do some children get spoiled at home?

Some children get spoiled at home because they do not have any supervision over them,
when both parents are working. Sometimes they fall into wrong company, and sometimes
they watch the wrong type of programs on TV. So they get spoiled.
3. Do young adults in your country like to communicate with old people?

It cannot be generalized for all the young people. Most young people in my country like to
communicate with old people. But, some young people do not like the interference of the
elderly, and so do not like to communicate with them.
4. How much do you think people should be responsible for (the welfare of) their own
parents?
I think, people should be totally responsible for their own parents. Parents have taken
care of their children and made capable adults, so he is the children’s responsibility now
to look after their parents.
5. Do you think family relationships are important?

Family relationships are very important. Family is the best support a person can have in
times of stress. Is the family relationships are strong, then children do not go astray and
become responsible adults.

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37. Describe a famous person that you are

interested in
You should say:
- who this person is
- 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
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
 Or
 A person I admire the most is our Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 He is the first Prime Minister who was born in Independent India, that is, post 15
August 1947
 He is a dynamic and development oriented leader.
 He represents Varanasi constituency in the Lok Sabha.
 He has been the Chief Minister of Gujarat for four 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
 I really appreciate his initiatives like Swach Bharat Abhayan, Make in India. I believe
these programs will help establish India’s presence among the developed nations.
 His other programs such as Mann ki Batt shows how good he is at governance.
 He is a kind of leader who practices what he preaches. For example, we have seen
him promoting Yoga by celebrating International Yoga day but many people don’t
know that he himself does Yoga every morning.
 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.

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Follow Up Questions
1. Do you think a person who is famous is well liked? Why?

Not necessarily. It depends on why the person has achieved fame. If the famous person is a
sportsman or a film-star, he is well liked but if the famous person is a terrorist or any other
criminal, he is not liked. He is in fact loathed/ hated by people.
2. What do you know about celebrities?

Celebrities are the famous people from the world of entertainment, business, sports and
politics.
3. Do you think celebrities are different in different countries?

Yes, of course, celebrities are different in different countries. All countries have their own
famous people in the world of entertainment, business, sports and politics. However, some
celebs are internationally famous. This is because nowadays we belong to an era of
globalization. The IT revolution and the satellite TV have made it possible for people to be
famous all over the world.
4. Were they different in the past?

They were different in the past because the media in the past was not that pervasive. Only
those persons were famous who had really achieved great heights and were in the local and
national news. Whereas today, the reality TV has made it possible for even the common man
with some talent to become famous.
5. What does motivate people to become well-known?

Famous people have power and money. This power and money is what motivates people to
become well known. We can see today that even small children who become well known
through reality TV shows are approached by ad companies to endorse their products. So
once a person becomes well-known, money starts pouring in through many doors.
6. Do you think technology can help people interested in it, to become well known?
Definitely yes. A person who is well versed with technology can become famous overnight.
Who has not heard of the youngest billionaire of the world, Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of
facebook. Some songs also became famous because of you tube videos.

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38. Describe a family member who made you proud

You should say:
- Who this person is
- When this happened
- What this person did
- And explain why you felt proud
 A family gives us a feeling of belonging.

 All my family members are very loving and caring, and I’m proud of all of them
 But here I would like to talk about a member who made me very proud.
 He is none other than my father.
 His name is Dayal Singh, and he’s in his mid-50s.
 He is tall and handsome, and looks much younger than his age.
 He is my role model, and I admire him for many reasons, but here I would like to
mention an incidence, when he specially made me very proud.
 It so happened, that about six months ago, our neighbour Mr Ram Singh met with an
accident and was hospitalized.
 We went to the hospital, and we saw there were many of his near and distant
relatives over there.
 The doctor came out after examining him and asked the relatives for blood.
 On hearing that, all the relatives seemed to vanish into thin air.
 My father went to the blood bank and donated blood.
 In exchange, we got a unit of blood for Mr Ram Singh.
 I felt so proud of my father that he had selflessly stepped forward to help a needy
neighbour.
 He did not think twice before donating blood.
 I wonder why many people are afraid of donating blood.
 It can save lives.
 Why do people forget that if today they will help others, they will get help when they
will need.
Follow Up Questions
1. What can children do to make their parents proud?

Children can do a lot. They can do well in studies, to make their parents proud. They can
do well at sports to make their parents proud.
2. What did you do to make your parents proud when you were young?
I didn’t do anything special. I think my parents were proud of me because I worked hard in
studies, helped in household chores and never put unreasonable demands in front of
them.
3. What characteristics of yours make you proud?

I am proud of my hardworking and polite nature. I never speak rudely to anyone, and
always try to help others in any way I can.
4. When was the last time that you felt proud of yourself?
The last time I felt proud of myself was when I go good marks in my senior secondary
exams.

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39. Describe a garden you have visited

You should say:
- where it was;
- what it looked like;
- what you did there;
- and explain why you liked it there.
 I have visited many gardens in my life.

 But here I would like to talk about the rock garden in Chandigarh.
 It is very different from the conventional gardens as there are no trees and plants in it like
other parks.
 I went there last month with my friends.
 We had heard a lot about the tourist attractions of Chandigarh and wanted to visit it once..
 We were four friends – Ravi, Rohan, rajinder and I.
 Ravi took his car and we shared the expense of diesel.
 We saw many places like the Rose Garden, Sukhna Lake, Mini zoo and the Rock Garden.
 The Rock Garden by Nek Chand is very interesting because it is made entirely of trash.
 We spent two hours there and clicked a lot of photographs.
 About 5000 people visit the rock garden daily.
 It has around 5000 sculptures.
 It is a unique garden that consists of various art objects.
 But the best part about the rock garden is that each of its artwork has been made by using
waste material.
 The Rock Garden has become immensely popular.
 Rock garden has been established in the form of an open-air exhibition hall.
 The garden has sculptures made by using a variety of different discarded waste materials
like frames, mudguards, forks, handle bars, metal wires, play marbles, porcelain, auto
parts, broken bangles etc.
 The garden highlights the value of materials many people consider trash.
 People come from different parts of the world to see this amazing garden.
 It is located in Sector 1 near the Sukhna Lake.
 Nek Chand received the Padam Shri in 1983 for his efforts.
 A sculpture also appeared on an Indian postage stamp.
 The Chandigarh Rock Garden is now acknowledged as one of the modern wonders of the
world.
Follow Up Questions
1. Are public gardens very important in India?
Yes, public gardens are very important, not just in India but everywhere in the world. The act
as the lungs of the community. As it is, we are living in concrete jungles. These are places
where people come in spend some time amidst nature.
2. Are there many public gardens in India?
Yes, there are many public gardens in India. The city and town development authorities have
made it mandatory to include gardens in residential areas where people can come and enjoy
the beauty of nature, and also socialize with each other.
3. Do you think there are enough public gardens in your hometown?

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Yes, there are enough public gardens in my hometown. Every colony has at least one garden.
4. What do you think are the benefits of having gardens in the city?
(Same as answer 1)
5. Very often, public gardens are not designed in a simple way but, instead, are laid out in a
rather complex way. Why do you think this is the case?
Sometimes, authorities do landscaping of the gardens so as to make them more attractive.

Once these gardens are well developed, they can become tourist attractions too. My friend,
who recently visited Bangalore told me that she visited the Lal Bagh over there, which has
tourist importance. She say a topiary area over there, where shrubs were cut in such a way
that they made animal shapes like elephant and giraffes. She also saw many bonsai plants
over there.
6. Do you think governments should provide public gardens for people to visit?
Yes, the government should provide public gardens for people to visit because, people will
come to know about different plants. If a small and nominal entry ticket is also there, then
enough money could be collected for their upkeep.
7. What do people do when they go to a public garden?
People enjoy the atmosphere of the garden. They breathe fresh air, and enjoy being in the lap
of nature for some time.
8. How do people of different age groups use public gardens?
Young people do brisk walking in gardens, and the elderly just do a leisurely stroll. Both age
groups enjoy being with nature.

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40. Describe a holiday you want to go on in the

future
You should say:
- Where you want to go
- When you would like to go
- What you can do for the holiday
- Who you would like to go with
- And explain why you want to have this holiday
 Holidays can be relaxing holidays in which a person just goes to some different place and
lazes around to relieve his stress.
 Holidays can also be hectic in which the whole aim is to do as much sightseeing as
possible.
 So for people who otherwise have physically active lives, a relaxing holiday would be
perfect.
 But for all others the hectic holiday would be ideal.
 I prefer to see new places and meet new people.
 So, for me a perfect holiday would be full of life.
 I would like to go to Jaipur with my family.
 We would go by train.
 We would go through Pack Travels tour operators..
 They have very reasonable packages for anywhere within India.
 We would stay there for a week and see a lot of places.
 There are a lot of forts and palaces in Jaipur.
 We will see the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, Maharani Palace and Amer fort.
 We would also do a lot of shopping there.
 I have heard that every December there is a handicraft fair there which has handicrafts
from different areas of Rajasthan.
 I would buy some handicrafts from there.
 I would buy some souvenirs for my friends.
 There is also a Chokhi Dhani place there just like Haveli where many artists display the
culture and tradition of Rajasthan.
 The entry ticket includes the traditional Rajasthani meal.
 I would enjoy that also.
 It would be a perfect holiday for me.
 Holidays break the monotony of day-to-day life
 They bring mental and physical relaxation.
 They help us to recharge our batteries and come back to work with added energy.

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Follow Up Questions
1. Do you like short holidays or long holidays?

Normally, I like short holidays, because it gives me a break after a few days of heavy work.
But ones in a while, a long holiday is also welcome.
2. Do you think modern lifestyles give people enough time for leisure?
Modern lifestyle is very busy. Everyone is in the rat race of earning more and more. So
people have to specially take out time for leisure.
3. What’s the most popular tourist attraction in India?

India is full of tourist attractions. It is difficult to pinpoint one main tourist attraction.
However, I believe the Taj Mahal is one of the most popular tourist attractions in India.
4. What’ s the most important factor for a tourist attraction?

The most important factor for the tourist attraction is that either it should have some
historical significance, or it should be a natural wonder.
5. Do you think we should have more public holidays?

No, I do not think that in India we should have more public holidays. India is a multicultural
and multi-religious society. We already have to many festivals and national holidays.

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41. Describe a time you needed to use imagination

You should say:
- what the situation was;
- why you needed to use imagination;
- what the difficulties were;
- and explain how you felt about it.
 We all use imagination in our day-to-day lives.

 Imagination is a wonderful thing
 When we read a book or hear a story, we imagine the characters.
 We also imagine the situation in our minds.
 In happy times we imagine good things.
 In sad times, all negative thoughts come in our minds.
 Here I would like to talk about a situation when I used my imagination.
 Once I took part in a painting competition in my hometown.
 I was in 10th class, and I represented my school in this competition, which was
organised by a local NGO, the J.C. club.
 We had to use our imagination to draw and paint a picture on the theme of – Drug
addiction.
 I knew that if we take addicting drugs, our bodies become lifeless and our lives
become meaningless.
 I used my imagination and drew two skeletons – one smoking a cigarette and the
other injecting itself with a drug.
 I wanted to convey the message that narcotic drugs can turn us into skeletons and
our end is near.
 I was overjoyed when my name was called out as the first prize-winner.
 All my friends and teachers who were there congratulated me.
 Our principal announced my name in the morning assembly the next day and
everyone clapped for me.
 I was on cloud nine.
Follow Up Questions
1. Why do most children have a wild imagination?

Most children have a wild imagination because they hear stories, which their parents
or grandparents read out to them. They also read story books. This stimulates their
imagination centre of the brain. They are not yet aware of the realities of life. So, their
imagination runs wild.
2. What kind of books can boost people’s imagination?

All sorts of books can boost people’s imagination. When we read books, we imagine
the characters in our mind. So, all types of books force us to imagine the scenario or
the characters. This is the main difference between reading a book and watching TV.
Reading is an active activity, where as watching TV is a passive activity.
3. Do you like to watch movies about the future?

Yes, I do. Watching such movies is fun. Someone has used his imagination to
envisage the future. It also makes us think what can happen in the future. Just as
yesterday’s fiction is today’s reality, who knows, today’s fiction may become
tomorrow’s reality.
4. What can schools do for student’s creativity?

Schools can have art classes. These bring out children’s creativity. They can also
hold story telling competitions. When children tell stories, they use imagination, and
this boosts creativity.

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42. Describe an important place like (stadium,

swimming pool] in your city
You should say:
- where it is;
- how often you go there;
- what people do there;
- and explain why you think it is important.
(Same as 26)
Follow Up Questions
1. Where do Indian people play sports?

Indian people play sports in stadiums and playgrounds.
2. Do you prefer indoor sports or outdoor sports?

I prefer outdoor sports to indoor sports. I like playing badminton and cricket.
3. What are the benefits of group sports?

Group sports teach us many things. They teach us cooperation. They also teach us
sportsman spirit, which means winning with modesty and losing with grace.
4. How can children be benefited from doing sports?

Children can be benefited from sports in many ways. First of all sports season physically
and mentally fit. Then they learn how to compete and cooperate from sports.
5. Should young people try dangerous sports?

If young people want to try dangerous sports, they should try them but under supervision.

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43. Describe an interesting house or apartment you

visited
You should say:
- Where this place is
- What it is like
- When you want to live in there
- and explain why you want to live in such a place
 I have visited many houses and apartments, and I liked most of them.
 But here, I would like to talk about a house, which I find very interesting
 This is the house of my aunt and uncle, who live in Chandigarh.
 It is a double storey house with four bedrooms, one kitchen, one hall and one
drawing room.
 I find the house very interesting, because the total energy needed to run the house is
obtained from solar panels.
 They have set up solar panels with a cost of twenty lacks and now all their air
conditioners and geysers run on solar panels.
 They also do not have to worry about power cuts because they are generating their
own power from solar panels.
 Otherwise also that house is very energy efficient.
 During the daytime there’s so much light from the windows that they do not need to
turn on the lights
 The house is so well ventilated that they do not need to switch on the fan also at
times.
 My uncle was telling us that now they have to pay the electricity bill of one thousand
rupees per month, whereas earlier it was about 25,000 a month.
 The maintenance cost of the solar panels is quite less.
 They have decorated the house with minimalistic approach, and there is no clutter of
unnecessary furniture.
 The woodwork is also very simple, which looks very good and is evergreen.
 I would definitely like to live in such a house one day.
Follow Up Questions
1. How is modern home design (both inside and outside appearance) in your country
different to that of the past?
Modern home designs are very different from the past. Earlier we had single storey
houses, but now we have multiple storey apartments. Earlier, that was more emphasis on
the utility of the house, but today the beauty and utility what factors are equally
considered. Earlier, local materials were used like wood and stone, but today important
and prefabricated materials are used.
2. In your country, what type of home do most people live in?

Most people live in single storey houses, but it is difficult to generalize for the whole of
India. In metros such as Bombay, tall buildings have become very common. In the
eastern parts of India where there’s a lot of rainfall, houses have sloped roofs, but in the
plains houses have flat terraces.

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3. Do people prefer to live in modern homes or the older-style homes (e.g., from 50 years
ago)?
People prefer to live in the modern homes, because these homes are made with today’s
climate in mind. These can accommodate more number of people in less space, which is
needed In today’s time.
4. How are modern homes different to older homes?
(Same as 1)
5. What do you imagine people's houses will be like in the future?

Houses of the future will be very energy-efficient. The focus will be on making tall
buildings so that less. space is needed
6. Why do people sometimes move to live in a different home?

Sometimes people have to move to a different home because they get a transfer in their
job. Sometimes they have to move because of health reasons.

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44. Describe an interesting song

You should say:
- What kind of song it is
- How you found it
- What it is about
- And explain why it is interesting to you
 I love music and I love listening to Hindi and Punjabi songs.

 Most of these songs are very meaningful.
 Here I would like to talk about a Punjabi song by a famous Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan,
which I find very interesting.
 The name of the song is Boot Polishan.
 It is from his album Boot Polishan
 It was released in 2008.
 The song gives the message that work is worship.
 Instead of begging for money a person should work and earn.
 It does not matter if the work is big or small such as polishing shoes of people.
 If a person works and earns he can always hold his head high.
 I heard this song about two years ago and since then it has become my favourite song.
 Actually Gurdas Mann is my favourite singer.
 He is a multifaceted personality.
 He is a singer, actor, director and a lyricist as well.
 He writes the lyrics of his songs himself.
 He has also acted in many Punjabi movies.
 All my family members also love his songs.
 When we go out anywhere together we play his songs in the car.
 All his songs have messages.
 He even performs in stage shows.
 He always has his tambourine in his hands when he performs.
 There is a village near my home town where he comes every year and performs for
charity.
 I went there last year.
 It was an electrifying experience.
Follow Up Questions
1. Do teenagers and adults enjoy the same kind of songs?

It depends on the personal taste. Generally speaking, teenagers like songs with fast beats
and adults like songs with good lyrics and soft music.
2. What are the factors, which make people like a song?

A song should have good lyrics, a good composition, a pleasing voice and a good video
to be liked by people.
3. On which occasions do people in your country sing together?

In my country, people sing together on birthday parties, marriages, anniversaries and
national holidays like the Independence Day and so on.
4. Which kinds of songs are suitable for children? Why?

I think folk songs are very suitable for children because they keep children connected to
our culture and tradition. As it is, today’s children are following the global culture and so,

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they need to be kept in touch with our traditional culture. Folk songs are a good way to
connect with our culture.
5. What do old people like to listen to?

Always people like to listen to religious songs, old film songs, and songs with slow beats.
6. How would your grandfather feel if you gave him some hip hop music to listen to
I don’t think he will like it. He loves old Hindi film songs.
7. Why do you think old people like old songs?

I think it is so because they feel connected to that time. Such songs bring back nostalgic
memories of the past.
8. Why do you think people of different age groups have different favourite songs?
This is because tastes change with age. At a younger age we like faster beat songs.
When we grow older, we start liking slow songs and songs related to religion.
9. What kinds of music do (small) children in India like to listen to?

Small children like to listen to songs with fast beats on which they can dance, even if they
don’t understand the lyrics.
10. What are the differences between popular music and the music that (young) children like
to listen to?
I don’t think there is any difference. Children like the popular music.
11. Why do some people like to play music (= play a musical instrument} in the open?
They do also perhaps because they want to share their art with the people outside, or
they want to play music in natural surroundings.

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45. Describe a method that helps you save money

You should say:
- What the method is
- When you started to use it
- How you knew it
- and explain why it is helpful
• It is very important to learn how to save money

• I started getting pocket money when I was 10 years old
• But I used to spend it all on candies and chocolate
• Then one day I happened to go to my cousins house
• My cousin Sonya is almost my age
• She showed me her video game, which she had bought from her own pocket money.
• She told me that she got Rs 500 per month and she saved all of it for 10 months to
buy this game
• That day I decided that I would also start saving money
• I bought a piggy bank for myself and started putting all my pocket money in it.
• My mother also encouraged me to save money
• She told me that if I did not spend any money on candies and chocolate, she would
add another thousand rupees to my savings after one year.
• Obviously I was very happy, and started saving money with all enthusiasm
• At first it was very difficult for me to fight my temptation for chocolates
• But I was very determined, and I succeeded.
• I remember when I bought my video game with my own saved money, it became a
very special thing for me
• I kept it with great care
• I get much more pocket money nowadays, and I can manage to save most of it.
• After my 18th birthday, my father opened my own bank account for me, and now I
save my money in that account.
• The next big thing to buy in my agenda is an iPhone 6S.
• I hope I can buy it very soon.
Follow Up Questions
1. What do young people in country like to buy?

Young generation in our country has been impacted a lot by social media. They have
access to all the information at their fingertips and they know what the latest trends
are. Due to these factors they are mostly interested in buying gadgets such as
smartphones and also interested in fashion.
2. Which do you think is more important, the cost of a product or the quality of the
product?
I definitely believe that the quality of the product comes first, because if the quality is
really good, then people normally don’t bother about the cost. For example, Apple
iPhones are known to be Premium quality devices and whenever they launch their
new Phones we can see long queues outside their stores even days before the
launch.
3. Why are imported products more expensive than locally made products?
Imported products are more expensive than locally made products because the
government wants to promote the development of local businesses. Also, custom
duties and other taxes have to be paid on imported goods. If the imported products
were to become cheaper, then there will be no economic growth of the local
businesses in our country and it will also hurt our economy.

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4. What do you think of those people who only buy expensive things and look down on
other people who buy cheap product?
I think that these people buy expensive things only to pretend they are cool and show
off their status. I feel that such people are vain and value material things more than
relations or others’ emotions. I believe that even if someone can afford to buy
expensive things, he/she shouldn’t look down upon those who can’t.
5. Which do you think better, buying things online or buying things in real shops?
I think it’s really hard to decide which one is better because both of them offer their
unique advantages. For example, online shopping provides you the comfort of
ordering anything in the world with just a click of a button, whereas retail shopping
provides you a great experience and the ability to feel the product before making a
buying decision.
6. Why do you think online shopping has become so popular?

Online shopping has become popular primarily due to two reasons.
Firstly, It’s very convenient for people to buy anything online by just clicking on a
button. They don’t have to spend time on going to shops or in finding car parking.
Secondly, ecommerce companies offer a lot of discounts online, hence making the
products cheaper than their retail prices.
7. How do people pay for things they buy online?

People normally pay through their Credit Cards or use Online Banking for making
purchases. But now a days ecommerce companies have also started providing the
option of Cash on Delivery, i.e. people can pay when they receive the product.
8. What can parents do to teach children to save money?

Parent can teach children to save money by buying them piggy banks, and by setting
an example in front of them by saving money themselves.
9. Why do young people tend to waste money?
Young people tend to waste money because they don’t realize the importance of
money, and sometimes they just want to show off.
10. What kinds of things do people like to buy in your country?
People buy all sorts of things in my country. They buy clothes, footwear, electronic
gadgets and many other things.
11. Do schools in India teach anything about financial management?
No, schools in India I do not teach anything about financial management.
12. Why is it necessary to teach teenagers to manage money?
It is very necessary to teach teenagers to manage money, because otherwise they
just waste away money, which their parents earn with great difficulty
13. How do parents give pocket money in your country?
Some parents give weekly money, whereas others give monthly pocket money.

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46. 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 the appointment.
- you missed an important appointment for something
 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 other things were at 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
appointment totally skipped through my mind.
 Later, I got a call from my dentist reminding me that I had missed my appointment.
 I apologized to him for not being able to reach on that day and asked him for another
appointment next day.
 Thankfully his schedule for 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.
 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.
Follow Up Questions
1. Which events in your country most people forget?

I don’t think we can generalize this, however, I think it is mostly birthdays and
anniversaries of relatives and friend 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 memory can 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 are required 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.

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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 smart phones 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.
10. Is it easy to make an appointment in India?

Yes, it is easy to make an appointment. However, it is very important and that if you
make an appointment you are punctual also.

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47. Describe a person that just moved home

You should say:
- When and where this person moved
- How you know this person
- What this person brought
- And how this person felt about moving
 People need to move to new homes when they go to another city, for work or for their
studies.
 It could also be a move into a bigger or a better house in the same city.
 Today I will talk about a person who moved into a new house.
 He is my cousin Bharat.
 He is 40 years old.
 He lives in Chandigarh with his family of four members, his wife, two daughters and
him.
 He runs his own business in the IT field.
 He moved with his family into a new apartment in Sector 71, Chandigarh, in June this
year.
 He was earlier living with his parents, however, since his family is now growing, he
needed to move to a bigger house.
 He was very excited about the move and was getting the apartment ready for the last
one year.
 He has taken the help of experts and planned and designed his house really well.
 His house is on the fifth floor and the apartment building has two elevators.
 There is a big park in their society’s complex, where there is a track to walk and has
swings and a play area for children.
 It is a newly built apartment and they have furnished it well, with the latest interiors.
 They have installed many latest appliances in the new home.
 The kitchen is well designed and well equipped.
 His new house has three big bedrooms with attached bathrooms.
 All the relatives got together at the house-warming ceremony and we all loved his
new home.
 Since their parents are in the same city, they meet them almost everyday and their
daughters also has a strong bond with them.
 I think it was a very wise decision for them to move to a new home.

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Follow Up Questions
1. Do people like to live in big or small houses?

I think mostly people prefer spacious and comfortable houses, however, it also
depends on the family size. If it’s a big family, then a bigger house is needed and for
smaller families, a small house is comfortable to live in. These days bigger houses
have become a luxury because of scarcity of land.
2. Where do old people like to live, in the city or the countryside?

I think that older people prefer the countryside because it is quieter than the cities and
there is less pollution there. Also, there is usually more greenery in the countryside,
than in the cities; so older people prefer that to the cities. The only downside to that is
that there are better medical and transport facilities in the cities.
3. Do you like to move house frequently?

No I don’t like to move houses frequently because it is a very tedious and tiring thing
to do. It is a big hassle to move the furniture and other things to a new house and then
setting up the new house. It takes up a lot of time and energy.
4. Is it easy to move house in India?

Yes, these days because of the packers and movers facility available in every city,
moving has become easier than before. These companies not only transport the stuff,
but also help with the packing of the furniture and all the other things. This has made
moving a little less tiring for the person or family moving to a new house.

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48. Describe a quiet place

You should say:
- Where it is
- When you like to go there
- What you do there
- Why you like to visit there
• 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 home town, 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 fish pond 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.
• 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.

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Follow Up Questions
1. 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
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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.
5. 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 vehicles.

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49. Describe a place where you relaxed

You should say:
- where it is;
- what you usually do there;
- how often you go there;
- and explain why it is a relaxing place
 Relaxation is important in everyone’s life

 -Everyone has different ways of relaxation
 -Elderly people go to religious places and parks to relax
 -Young people have a lot of pent up energy, so they go to gym’s and discos to sweat
out that energy, and relax.
 -I usually go to a gurdwara to relax.
 -I went that last Sunday and spent the whole afternoon there.
 -I go there once or twice a week
 -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 fish pond 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 relaxation and peace of mind.
 -Last Sunday, I took 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.
 -So, this is the place I went to relax.
Follow Up Questions
1. Do you like to visit movie theaters?
Yes, I like to visit movie theaters. Once in a month or two I watch a movie in the
cinema.
2. Where do Indian people like to go on weekends?

Indian people like to go cinemas, shopping malls, and restaurants on weekends.
Sometimes they go to their relatives’ homes
3. What do old people do to relax?

Old people go to religious places. They go to parks and sit on the benches and talk
with others of their age
4. What is the importance of relaxation?

Relaxation is very important. It recharges one’s batteries. After relaxing people can
work better and students can study better.
5. What are the ways people relax themselves?

People relax in different ways. Some go to parks, some go to religious places, some
just sit at home and listen to music or watch TV. Young people have a lot of pent up
energy, so they go to gym’s and discos to sweat out that energy, and relax.

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6. What do you do to relax yourself?

Sometimes I go to the gurdwara. Sometimes I listen to music at home. Sometimes I
go to park near my home.
7. Do you think we should take a day off from our working?

Yes, we should take a day off from working, because then we can relax and go back
to work with more zeal and enthusiasm.
8. Do you think people can actually relax by relaxation exercises?

Yes, people can relax by relaxing exercises, such as yoga, and other stretching
exercises. Exercises also release endorphins, which relieve stress and help to relax.
9. Some people do nothing to relax do you thing it is a good idea?

Yes, sometimes just closing ones eyes and doing nothing also relaxes a person. It
depends on what sort of activities a person does in routine life. If a person does
physical work, then just doing nothing can be relaxing. If a person does sedentary
work, then other ways of relaxation are better.
10. Do you think relaxation should include some activity or doing nothing is enough?
(Same as above)
11. How did people relax earlier and how do they now?
Earlier people went out for relaxation, to parks and for picnics. But today, people go to
shopping malls and restaurants for relaxation. Young people sweat out their stress in
discos and gyms for relaxation.

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50. Describe an area of science that you are

interested in {such as physics, mathematics)
You should say:
- What it is
- When you started to become interested in it
- What you have learned from it
- And explain why you have interest in it
 Science is very important in a student’s life.

 It’s through the science subjects that we begin to think logically and find answers to
our questions.
 I found all the aspects of science interesting, like physics, biology and chemistry, as
these sciences answer everyday questions about why things happened and how we
evolved.
 Today I will be talking about a science, which I find the most interesting.
 It is computer science.
 I remember that I started becoming interested in it when in class 6th we started with
the computer science lessons.
 We had a wonderful teacher who taught us this subject in a very interesting way.
 Her name is Ms. Meenakshi.
 We used to have both theory and practical lessons for this subject.
 We used to look forward to the lab sessions as we got to work on the computers at
that time and try out several things we had learned in class.
 The lab sessions were always enjoyable, but our teacher taught it in a very interesting
way and we all enjoyed the theory lessons a lot too.
 There are many interesting things that I have learned from this science.
 The first thing is how we can use computers not just as a source of entertainment, but
it’s use is much more vast than that.
 It can be used to organize and plan things at home. It can be used for many other
day-to-day activities like, banking, research work, shopping, connecting with friends
and relatives and so on.
 Not only that, it helps the artists creates new art and helps designers create clothes,
cars, buildings, etc.
 Another reason that I have an interest in this science is because I know that in every
field today we need to use computers.
 It will help me with my higher studies and also in my career later.
 In this contemporary world, the computer science has become an important science
and it is essential that everyone is computer savvy to be able to do well in their
studies or work or even if it is used as a source of entertainment.
Follow Up Questions
1. What is your opinion of modern education (in schools)?

I think that modern day education has changed for the better. The schools today have
smart classes and technology has been incorporated really well in the classroom.
Also, the focus now is also shifting from an exam-based approach to a more learner
friendly approach that leads to a better understanding of concepts and various
subjects.
2. What school subjects do you think are most important (in primary school or high
school)? Why are they important?
I think that all the subjects currently a part of school curriculums are essential for the
holistic development of a child. These subjects range from sciences, languages,
literature, history, social science, moral science, etc.

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3. What subject or subjects do you think will be the most important in the future?
I think all the subjects are important, however, it is becoming increasingly important
that all the schools incorporate technology and have computer science and
applications as an important part of the school curriculums. There are many schools
in India and many other developing and under-developed countries, where the
students still don’t have the access to technology.
4. What school subject do you think will be the most useful in adult life?(or most useful
for society?)
I believe that all the subjects that we are taught in the school time help lay the
foundation of a good citizen. Through mathematics we learn to do everyday
calculations, through history we stay connected to our roots, through social sciences
we get to know about society, laws, rules and so on.
5. Which subjects do you think should be optional and which should be compulsory?
Subjects like mathematics, history, the sciences – like biology, physics, chemistry,
computers, social, etc., languages, literature, etc. should be compulsory. Besides
these, sports should be a part of the school curriculum, as a compulsory subject.
However, the students should have an option to choose from different sports. Arts &
crafts should be included as well, and the type of art and craft can be an option for the
students. Studying of any foreign language can be an optional subject.
6. What are the advantages of studying computing in high school?

Studying computing is very advantageous. We need computing in our everyday life-
when we shop, pay bills, and so on. When we set deadlines we calculate the days
and time we have, we need to compute taxes, interests when saving money, and it is
needed in so many other everyday things.
7. In the west, (upper) high school students are allowed to choose many of the subjects
they study. Do you think it would be a good idea in India?
I think in India all subjects should be taught till high school and like it happens now,
students have an option to choose the subjects they want to study in the senior
secondary education. I think we have a good education system and it builds a strong
foundation, which is evident from the fact that many Indians are working in the
western countries and are in great demand there, especially in the IT and finance
sectors.

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Apr’17
51. Describe a special meal you have had

You should say:
- where you had it;
- who you had it with;
- what you ate;
- and explain it was special for you
 I have had many special meals in my life

 Some were special because of the quality of food
 Some were special because of the persons with whom I shared the meal
 But, here I would like to talk about a meal, which was special from all angles.
 It was a lunch on which my friend Rania invited me along with our three other friends,
Harjinder, Sonia and Prabhdeep.
 Last month it was Rania’s birthday and we all friends asked her for a treat.
 She invited us over for lunch at her home.
 Honestly speaking I thought that a meal at home was not a great idea of a birthday
celebration.
 But when I reached her home I realised how wrong I was.
 Her mother had decorated the drawing room with balloons and buntings and also
prepared a very elaborate lunch for us.
 She has excellent culinary skills.
 That day she had prepared Chinese dishes because Rania knew we all loved
Chinese.
 The table was very well laid.
 First she served us sweet corn soup.
 It was yummy.
 Then we had noodles and cheese chilly and Manchurian.
 Believe me ma’m that was the most delicious Chinese meal I had ever tasted in my
life.
 All of us were practically licking our fingers.
 For dessert was a plum cake that also her mother had baked.
 Rania told me that her mother bakes many types of cakes.
 I also learnt a few recipes from her.
 After lunch we played some music and danced and enjoyed a lot.
 So this was the meal I was invited to.
Follow Up Questions
1. Describe what you think is a healthy diet?

A healthy diet is one which has the proper balance of micro and macronutrients.
Macronutrients are proteins carbohydrates and fats, whereas micronutrients are
vitamins and minerals.
2. Are there many vegetarians in India?

Yes, there are many vegetarians in India.
3. Why do you think some people choose to be vegetarians?

Some people choose to be vegetarians because they realize the importance of
vegetarian food. Some people are vegetarians on religious grounds.
4. Is the food that people eat today in India different to the food that people used to
eat in the past? (If yes, in what ways has it changed?)
Yes, today people eat a lot of fast food. Earlier they ate only traditional food.

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Apr’17
5. How do you think the way we eat will change in the future?
What the future holds in store for us no one can tell, but as far as I can see I feel
that ready-to-eat food will become more popular. Eating out in the restaurants will
also become more popular.
6. Is American-style ‘fast food‘ popular in India? (Why? Popular with whom?)

Yes, fast food is very popular especially among the youngsters.
7. What do you think of this popularity - is it as good thing?

I think this popularity is not a very good thing. Fast food is very rich in fats and
salts, which is the leading cause of obesity among youngsters.
8. More and more people are becoming overweight nowadays. What do you think
might be the causes of this?
There’re two main reasons of obesity. One is sedentary lifestyle, and the other is
the fast food culture.
9. Do meals have any special meanings in your culture?

Yes, meals are very significant in my culture. People give special importance to
the family meal in which all family members sit together and eat. The lady of the
house serves the meal with great warmth. This is also the time for the family to
talk about the days happenings with each other. It has been well said that “a
family that eats together, stays together.” Earlier families used to share three
meals a day, but now due to the fast paced life the only family meal is dinner.
10. Do meals change from one region to another in your country?

India is a diverse country. There is diversity in meals also. North Indian and South
Indian meals are poles apart. In North India the staple diet is wheat where as in
South India it is rice.
11. Do you think eating habits have changed? In what ways?

Eating habits have changed in many ways. Earlier, people used to sit together
and share all meals of the day. Now, breakfast is very-very hurried one and lunch
is also taken at the workplace. Earlier traditional foods were preferred but now
fast food culture is very popular. Ready to eat foods are also available and people
don’t cook like in the earlier times.
Some positive changes can also be seen. People are going towards organic
foods which are much healthier as they don’t have any fertilizers and insecticides
and pesticides. People have also become more aware about their health and are
using low cholesterol oils and lesser salts in their diets.
12. Do you think what we eat is healthy?

It is difficult to answer. Home cooked food is definitely healthier as we use the
best oils and lesser salts. Fast foods are not good for health. Therefore, not
everything we eat nowadays is healthy. Actually at times the palate rules over the
head.
13. Do you thing that governments should control the food production?
Yes, the governments should do so ideally. But it is very difficult for the
governments to do so because most farmers would like to grow cash crops. If
there are strict regulations then people will find loopholes to do what they want.
The governments can give special aid to those farmers who grow crops
suggested by the government.
14. Is eating healthy important?

Yes, healthy eating is very important because most of the diseases today are
because of unhealthy diets. Obesity is a very common problem nowadays. It is
the root cause of many other problems. Healthy eating means good quality food
and also hygienic food. We should eat less fats and salts and we should avoid
junk food which is rich in fats and salts.

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Apr’17
15. What is being done to promote healthy food?

A lot is being done to promote healthy food. Governments are giving ads about
healthy foods and even food inspectors are regularly checking food outlets to
monitor the quality of foods provided by them. Agriculture department is also
awaring farmers about the harms of insecticides and pesticides and also giving
subsidies on good quality fertilizers.
16. How do we get the message about healthy eating out to the community?
We can get the message about healthy eating out to the community through
media such as the TV and newspapers.
Arguments for Vegetarianism

Vegetarians do not eat foods that are produced by killing animals
1. Many people choose a vegetarian diet for moral reasons. It is unnecessary to kill animal
for food. Many people question the treatment of animals in factory farms
2. A healthy diet is possible without eating meat. Some foods like soya-beans have protein
content that is equivalent to non-vegetarian diet.
3. A vegetarian diet may reduce the risk of disease like cancer. Vegetarian diet contains
fibre which reduces the risk of cancer of the large intestine or colon.
Arguments against Vegetarianism

1. Vegetarians do not eat a balanced diet. In many cultures, meat is the main ingredient in
traditional meals
2. Meat-eaters argue that animals are below humans in the food chain. It is completely
natural for us to kill them for food.

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Apr’17
52. Describe a team project for study or

entertainment
You should say:
- When you did it
- Where you did it
- Who you did it with
- How you did it
- Why you liked it or disliked it
 I have done many team projects when I was in school such as playing games like cricket
and volleyball.
 But here I am going to talk about a group activity, which was making a model for
participating in an environment fair.
 This fair is held every year in December in my home town
 This model was on the topic of pollution
 We were a team of four students – Mohit, Rohan, Ravi and I.
 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.
 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 neighbourhood
congratulated me the next day.
 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.
(Another idea)
 Man is a social animal.

 Being part of a team, club or group is important for our lives.
 I too have been part of the cricket team of my school.
 I joined this team when I was in 9th class.
 My school was a co-ed school
 The boys and girls had separate cricket teams.
 Every day we used to play for two hours after the school timings.
 I joined this team because I love cricket.
 I have always been fascinated by the Indian cricket team
 I never miss any cricket match played by the Indian cricket team on TV
 We did a lot of activities there.
 I remember, my best friend, Rohan, was the captain.
 He used to make us work-out daily for 15 minutes.
 After that we would play a ten over match daily.
 We used to participate in the inter-school competitions also.
 Mostly, our school team won the trophy.
 Our team members co-operated with each other very well.
 Joining this team had a lot of importance for all of us.

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Apr’17
 We learnt many things.

 We learnt discipline.
 Because we had to practice daily, and we also did not want our studies to suffer, we used
to get up early and finish our home work.
 Then we learnt co-operation and patience.
 Not all of us got a chance to bat or ball every day, but we did not fight with each other
because of that.
 We also learnt sportsman spirit.
 How to win with modesty and lose with grace is a very important thing to learn in this
competitive era.
 Sometimes we lost from the girls’ team but we took it gracefully.
 Sometimes my mother used to crib when I was too involved in cricket but as I was doing
well in studies she did not say anything to me.
 Playing cricket also kept me lean and fit.
 Now, I have made a cricket team of my neighbourhood children.
 We play on Sundays
 I am the captain of that team.
 I look forward to Sundays now.
Follow Up Questions
1. What kinds of quality does a leader need?
A leader needs to have good communication skills. He should be able to lead by
example. If he wants his team to be punctual he should himself be punctual. You
should know how to get work done.
2. What are the reasons for the failure of teamwork?

Teamwork fails if there is no coordination between the team members. Teamwork
also fails if the team leader is not very competent.
3. Do children need to know more about teamwork?

Yes, children should know a lot about teamwork, because they have to work in teams
at all stages of their life.
4. Is cooperation more important than competition?

Competition and cooperation are equally important. Both competition and cooperation
are needed in our day-to-day lives. We need to compete with others in exams, or
when we start a new business. We need to cooperate with our colleagues at work,
and with other players in the team sports. Children should be taught both -
competition and cooperation. They should also be taught where to compete and
where to cooperate.

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Apr’17
53. 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 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 ladies 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.

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Apr’17
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’ s the best way to deal with stress?

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

People in the modern society, are busy. I think the fast-paced life style 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.

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Apr’17
54. Describe an interesting or unusual thing you did

recently {in your free time).
You should say:
- what you did
- when and where you did it
- who you did it with
- and explain why you think it was interesting or unusual.
 Few months back while our visit to a friend’s hometown, all of a sudden a friend
proposed to go inside a nearby forest and have a picnic there.
 This was a plan proposed by Rohan (...say one of your friends name...) and 4 of our
friends agreed to be part of this activity.
 This was bit dangerous as people scarcely go inside the forest and from the local
people we had heard different scary and wild stories about this jungle.
 Our main attraction was the abandoned house inside the jungle and we planned to do
the picnic there and take photos of wild life and the abandoned house.
 We knew that my friend's guardians won't permit us to do that and hence we planned
not to let them know about it upfront.
 On a Thursday morning we left the friend's house and bought the necessary
ingredients, vegetables, foods and other things that would be required for us to do the
picnic.
 We entered inside the jungle and to our surprise the inside was much more open and
beautiful than we thought it would be.
 With some difficulty we reached near the abandoned house and spent time till the
afternoon.
 This was a very exciting and unusual experience for us.
 We collected some wood and made arrangements for cooking.
 We ate the food we cooked and it was horrible in taste.
 However, we were looking for adventure and interesting stuff, so the bad food did not
kill our spirit.
 We could not enter the abandoned house as it was blocked and very fragile. We took
several photos of the place and we noticed that some of the wild animals were
observing us with suspicion.
 I have to confess that it was a bit dangerous and imprudent thing to do but we
enjoyed our interesting and unusual picnic inside a forest.
An unusual activity (Another version)
 To overcome the monotony of daily life everyone needs something interesting.

 I usually do many activities in my leisure time such as drawing, gardening and
dancing.
 But here I would like to talk about an unusual activity which I found really interesting.
 It was Furoshiki .
 It is a Japanese technique.
 I learnt this art from the internet.
 Actually my friend sent me link of its video on my e-mail account.
 It was a 10 minute video.
 I liked it very much.
 Furoshiki is an art of making handbags with the help of cloth and also it is art of
wrapping a gift with cloth.
 Such beautiful things made of cloth are a part of everyday life.
 I have made it by using old cloth.
 It is easy to make and quite attractive.
 It is elegant and timeless.
 It requires no sewing.

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Apr’17
 We can make a bag using a few knots and twists to cloth.

 It is amazing how a few twists and knots can transform a thin cloth to a beautiful
handbag.
 It can be used for many household purposes and also for shopping.
 I liked it because it is an eco-friendly bag and easy to carry.
 The Japanese government is promoting this art in an effort to save the environment.
 We all waste a lot of paper in wrapping gifts and other things.
 Furoshiki gift wraps are reusable.
 I have taught this art to many of my cousins and friends.
 Now, whenever I have to gift something, I use this method on some fine fabric and I
feel so happy when people appreciate it.
 I don’t use paper.
 It is my individual step to save environment.
Follow Up Questions
1. How do people in India spend their leisure time, for example, after school, after
work or on weekends?
People spend their leisure time in many ways. Some watch TV, some go out with
family and friends, some listen to music, some people surf the Internet and some
people spend time on their hobbies.
2. Compare how adults spend their leisure time with how children spend their leisure
time.
Adults spend that leisure time by watching TV, by listening to music, and by doing
some hobbies, whereas children watch TV, play video games, and some children also
play outside with friends.
3. What kinds of things do families in India do together in their leisure time?

Families watch TV together, go for movies together, eat out together, go for walks
together, and do many other things together.
4. Would you say that people have enough leisure time today?
Yes, people have enough leisure time, but they choose to work in that time also.
Modern technology has made life simpler and easier. Many of our works can be done
in much less time, but people chose to spend that saved time in doing even more
work.
5. How do you think science and technology has changed people's lives in India in
the past few years?
Science and technology has changed peoples’ lives in many ways. Machines to most
of the work, and so people but have a lot of time. Lives have become digital, and
people like to spend all their time online. Face to face communications have come
down.
6. Compare the way men spend their leisure time and the way women spend their
leisure time.
Men and women spend their leisure time in different ways, although in many ways
gender differences are disappearing. Women like to watch soaps on TV, men like to
watch sports channels and news channels. Both genders like sitcoms. Both like to do
shopping, but the things they buy may be different.

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Apr’17
55. Describe a time that you were waiting for

something
You should say
- When it happened
- Where it happened
- Who you were with
- What you were waiting for
- And how you felt about it
 There are many situations in life when you have to wait for things.
 Sometimes it is in your hands and sometimes we wait for things because it is not in
our hands.
 Here, I would like to talk about a situation when I decided to wait for buying a
cellphone of my choice.
 I could have bought a cheaper model, but I wanted an IPhone.
 So I waited till I had saved enough money for it
 On my 18th birthday, my father gave me Rs. 10,000 to buy a phone.
 I saw many models in the market, but I did not like any of them.
 My cousin had an IPhone and I had seen its features and working. So, I wanted
something like that.
 I decided to wait and save money before making my purchase.
 I get Rs.2000 per month as pocket money.
 I stopped spending on candies, chocolates and ice-creams, so that I could save all
my pocket money.
 I got some money from my brother and cousins on Rakhi.
 I six months I had saved Rs. 20,000.
 I went to a local Apple store and bought a second hand IPhone 5s, in a fairly good
condition.
 I am very happy with my IPhone.
 It is a rectangular phone in golden color.
 It has 16GB memory and a 14-megapixel camera.
 Waiting for this phone required a lot of patience, but I am happy that I decided to wait
for this purchase.
Follow Up Questions
1. Do you think patience is important?

Yes, patience is very important. Everything takes time. Nothing can be achieved
instantly. Patience helps to wait for things. If we are not patient, we tend to finish
things hurriedly, which spoils things.
2. Why is it difficult for children to be patient?

There are many reasons behind this. Children are not that mature. They don’t
understand many things. So they find it hard to have patience.
3. How to teach children patience?

They can be taught in many ways. Parents can become good role models for them
and tell them nicely that everything takes time. They can also be taught through
stories such as the hare and the tortoise. The hare runs fast and is not patient,
whereas the tortoise patiently and slowly completes the race without resting and wins
ultimately. Children can be taught that even if someone is better than them at
something, they can still beat that person by their perseverance and patience.
4. Would you easily feel angry when you wait for a long time?

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Apr’17
I am myself very punctual and don’t like to keep anyone waiting for me. So, I would
definitely feel angry if I have to wait for long. But then, I would also understand, if the
other person is late for some genuine reason.
5. Have you ever been late for meeting someone?

Normally, I am very punctual and don’t like to keep anyone waiting for me. But, I
remember, once I had to meet my friend in Jalandhar, and I got stuck in a traffic jam. I
was late for no fault of mine and so I called my friend and told her about my
predicament (difficulty or problem). She understood and was very patient.

143
Apr’17

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Cue Card 18: Follow ups ............................................................................................................. 68

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Expensive activity ............................................................................................................................ 104

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53. Describe a time you were very busy ...................................................................... 137

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1. Two People from the Same Family

 I know many people and many families.

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Cue Card 1: Follow up Questions

3. What effects do you think this might have in the future?

4. How do you think family life might evolve in the future?

6. Would you say family is important to most people?

7. Is family important to you?

8. Do young people like to spend time with their parents?

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15. What do family members in India do together?

22. What are the responsibilities of parents?

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24. In India, do employers provide any support for parents?

The Influence of Friends & Family

26. How do people choose their friends?

27. Are you very similar to your friends?

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 Neighbours are just like family in today’s era of nuclear families.

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Cue Card 2: Follow Up Questions

3. Do most Indian people know their neighbours?

6. What are some of the qualities of a good community?

9. What is the best kind of neighbour for a child to have?

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16. Did you grow up in an apartment (or a flat) or a house?

17. Which do you prefer, houses or flats?

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3. An event in the history of your country

 Every country has its own history.

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Cue Card 3: Follow Up Questions

2. What can we learn from history?

3. How can people get reliable historical information?

5. Do people in your country like to visit museums?

6. Who do you think likes to go to museums more – children or adults?

7. Do you think museums should be free of cost to enter?

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4. A plan of yours not related to work or study

 I plan to do many things besides my work and study.

 I plan to do many things besides my work and study

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