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✨ Hello Kitty's IELTS Preparation ✨

 

Part 1

1. The area you live in

1. Where do you live? Do you like the area that you live in?

你住在哪里? 你喜欢自己住的地区吗? I live in... I love the area that I live in. I am so lucky that we have so much to do which are very close to us! Also, there is public transportation just one block from my building. Everything is so convenient!

2. What are some changes in the area recently?

你打算在那住很久吗? Over the past few years, some new restaurants have opened nearby which make eating out more convenient for everyone in the area. Also, last year, improvements were made to the park near my house. Some older trees were trimmed and some new varieties of trees were planted.

3. Do you know any famous people live in this area?

你想改变家里的什么? Well, I really don't think any famous people live near me. I have never heard of or met any famous person in my neighbourhood. I guess it's because the area I am living in is an area for middle income families, not for famous people who have much higher salaries.

4. Where do you like to go in that area?

你在家养植物吗? Like I said earlier, there are some new restaurants in the area. They are family-style restaurants, so they are the great places to go with my family for relaxed meals. Also, the park has always been a pleasant place to go. Everything I need or want is within walking distance to my home.

5. What part do you love most in the place?

你会给花拍照片吗? Well, I absolutely adore the convenience of my neighborhood! Being close to downtown means everything is within reach - there's a subway station just 5 minutes away, and several shopping districts nearby where I can easily grab a bite, watch movies or go shopping. Oh, and the best part is the park right across my street - I often take evening walks there enjoying the lovely scenery.

6. Would you like to live in somewhere with completely different environmental conditions?

你家附近的花多吗? Definitely! While I'm quite happy with my current place, I'd love to experience different lifestyles. A coastal town particularly appeals to me - imagine waking up to ocean breezes, walking on sandy beaches, and maybe even trying some crab fishing! It would be such a refreshing change from city life, though I might miss the urban conveniences after a while.


2. Hometown

1. Where is your hometown? Is that a big city or a small place?

最近那个地区有什么变化吗? I live in Guangzhou. It is located in the Guangdong Province and is known as the City of Flowers. It is the third largest city in China. It has a population of over 13 million people. It's a big place. It is the educational and cultural center of Southern China. It's also known as the City of Flowers because there are evergreens and flowers in bloom year round because of its climate. It's a pretty city.

2. How long have you lived there?

你身边有没有人很喜欢花? I have lived here all of my life, for eighteen years. My parents have lived here all of their lives too.

3. What do you like the most about your hometown?

你们国家的人经常给别人送花吗? I really like the food. The Cantonese food is excellent and there are so many other kinds of international restaurants to try. I also really enjoy Thai food.

4. Is there anything you dislike about it?

你知道如何种花吗? The humidity gets things damp in the house, so we have to use air conditioning a lot of the time. I don't really like air conditioning, but we don't have a choice but to use it.

5. Do you know the history of your hometown?

你喜欢舒适的鞋子还是漂亮的鞋子? Yes, I'm from Guangzhou, a city with over 2,200 years of history! It was a major port along the ancient Maritime Silk Road and later became the only Chinese port open to foreign trade during the Qing Dynasty. Landmarks like the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (built in the 1890s) and Zhenhai Tower (dating back to the Ming Dynasty) reflect its rich past. The city also played a key role in modern Chinese history, like the 1911 Revolution led by Sun Yat-sen.

6. Will you learn the history of your hometown? / Do the schools teach the history of your hometown?

你会学习家乡的历史吗? /学校会教你们家乡的历史吗? Actually, not really. While we do have history classes in school , they mainly focus on broader Chinese and world history rather than local history. However, we sometimes visit local museums where we can learn about our hometown's past through exhibitions and artifacts.

7. What is the most famous thing in your hometown?

你喜欢在网上还是线下买鞋? Two things stand out: Cantonese cuisine (like dim sum and roast goose) and iconic landmarks. The Canton Tower ("Little Waist") is now the city's modern symbol, while the Five-Ram Statue represents its ancient legend—myth says five immortal rams brought prosperity to Guangzhou.


3. Accommodation

1. Do you live in a house or apartment?

你通常在鞋子上花多少钱? I live in a high rise apartment building on the 5th floor overlooking the street with apartment buildings on either side. We have a balcony where we keep many of our plants and sometimes we'll sit there in the evening.

2. Which is your favourite room in your home?

你喜欢买鞋吗? 你多久买一次鞋? Definitely my bedroom! It's got the comfiest bed and the coziest decor. What really makes it special though is that it's where I keep all my favorite things: my gaming setup, novels, and everything I need for a perfect lazy weekend.

3. What will make your home more comfortable/happy?

什么东西会让你的家更舒适/快乐? Hands down, our robotic vacuum cleaner has been a game-changer. Before we got it, my mom and I had to do all the sweeping and mopping ourselves, which was such a chore. Now this little gadget zips around daily, keeping the floors spotless with zero effort from us.

4. How long have you lived there?

你最喜欢的科目是什么? I called that place home for a solid 18 years before heading off to university. It's where all my childhood memories were made. These days I'm mostly on campus, but I still go back during holidays - it'll always feel like my real home no matter where I live in the future.

5. Do you live alone or with others?

你学习的时候,有人帮过你吗? 他们是怎么帮你的? I live with my parents, my sister, and my dog. Sometimes my grandparents or aunt will visit us and they stay with us in our home.

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

在你开始这个课题之前,你认为它很难吗?

I'm hoping after I finish my education , I find a job and I can find my own home. Housing is expensive, so I may be home with my parents longer than I plan to be.

7. What do you want to change in the home?

你喜欢艺术吗? To be honest, I'm pretty content with my current place since I've gotten used to it over time. But if I had to pick one thing, I'd definitely replace our wooden sofa with a plush, cushioned one. Those hard wooden surfaces are just unbearable - you can't even relax properly after a long day!


4. Work or Study /

Study:

1. What is your major? Why did you choose that subject? ? ? I am majoring in International Business. I chose my major subject of study based on my aptitude in studying economics, accounting, and languages, my interest in travel, and advice from my parents and teachers. I felt this major area of study would prepare me for a career that I would find interesting and that I could be successful in.

2. What is the major about? Do you like it? ? ? This year, I'm taking advanced classes in Finance, Macroeconomics, English, and Information Technology. I am also taking a class in Modern European History because I thought this would be interesting. I love my subject because it is so interesting. I find the more I learn, the more I find interesting about it! I think everything I am learning will be useful in my career.

3. Do you think it is difficult? Why? ? ? Well, studying International Business can be quite challenging at times. The main difficulty lies in having to master both theoretical knowledge like trade policies and practical skills such as cross-cultural negotiation. That really makes it a difficult subject.

4. What do you do after classes? ? To be frank, most of my after-class time gets eaten up by assignments and course preparation - that's probably the biggest downside of my major. I typically spend 3-4 hours daily reviewing case studies or working on group projects just to keep up with the coursework.

5. Do you prefer to study in the morning or in the afternoon? ? I prefer to study in the afternoon. I feel more alert in the afternoon than I do in the morning or the evening. I seem to be able to read, and comprehend more, in less time.

6. Are you looking forward to working? ? I am definitely looking forward to using the things I have learned in school in my career. I'm also looking forward to making money to support myself.

7. Do you sometimes feel that you have to study too hard? ? Absolutely! I've always been quite diligent with my studies - you know, even in university where many students skip previewing lessons, I still maintain this habit. Especially during exam periods, I often find myself burning the midnight oil to aim for top grades rather than just scraping by.

Work:

1. What work do you do? ?

I'm a middle school mathematics teacher . Currently, I teach Grade 7 students at a school in Shenzhen . My work involves not only teaching mathematics but also managing the classroom, communicating with parents, and designing differentiated teaching strategies to help students at different levels improve their academic performance.

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

I chose to become a teacher because I have a genuine passion for education and I believe every child has the potential to progress. During my junior high school internship, I discovered that teaching is not just about transferring knowledge—it's about inspiring intrinsic motivation and finding the right key for each student . This experience helped me find my self-value, and I realized that helping students grow and succeed gives me the greatest sense of fulfillment.

3. Do you miss being a student ? ?

To be honest, I don't really miss being a student because I'm still learning every day as a teacher . In fact, I'm currently applying for a master 's program in Mathematics and Pedagogy at EdUHK to further my studies. I believe learning is a lifelong journey, and being a teacher actually allows me to continue learning while helping others learn.

4. Do you like your job? ?

Absolutely! I love my job deeply. What I enjoy most is seeing students make breakthrough improvements. For example, I've helped students improve their scores from 50 to 94 points, which was incredibly rewarding. Of course, teaching can be challenging—like dealing with students who don't submit homework on time—but I've learned that through innovative methods such as group competitions and differentiated teaching , I can make a real difference in my students ' lives.

5. Is your job connected to your college major? ?

Yes, quite strongly. I studied mathematics in university, which directly connects to my current teaching position. However, being a good teacher requires more than just subject knowledge—it also requires pedagogical skills, classroom management, and the ability to inspire students . That's exactly why I'm pursuing a master 's degree in Mathematics and Pedagogy—to combine my mathematical expertise with systematic educational theories.

6. Do you prefer to work in the morning or in the afternoon? ?

As a teacher , my schedule is quite fixed—I work from morning until late afternoon, but honestly, I enjoy both parts of the day differently. Mornings are great for teaching new concepts when students are fresh and focused, while afternoons are perfect for interactive activities, group discussions, and one-on-one guidance. Each time of day has its own unique energy in the classroom.


Part 1

1. Plants

1. Do you keep plants at home?

你喜欢参观美术馆吗? Yes, I do. I keep a few small plants on my balcony, like succulents and a bamboo plant. They are easy to take care of, and I feel relaxed whenever I water them or see them growing.

2. Will you take photos of flowers?

你想当艺术家吗?

Mostly I will, especially when I come across some flowers that I haven't seen before. I think taking photos of them is a pretty nice way to capture their beauty and elegance.

3. Are there many flowers near your home?

你喜欢现代艺术还是传统艺术? Not that I can recall. Off the top of my head I cannot come up with anyone around me who likes flowers. But I do know many flower youtubers on the social media. They are constantly uploading different videos related to flowers.

4. Is there anyone around you who likes flowers very much?

你喜欢和朋友聊天吗? From my observation, yes there are indeed various forms of flowers in the vicinity of my apartment. However, I don't basically know their difference that much. I am not a flower person.

5. Do people in your country often send flowers to others?

你和朋友见面时聊些什么?

Some people would, since it is one of the best ways to express their emotions. They usually get them wrapped up in different gift boxes. But I guess less and less people are doing this nowadays because of the declining popularity of flowers.

6. Do you know how to plant flowers?

你更喜欢在线聊天还是面对面聊天? Absolutely not. I am a layperson on flowers. I mean, I don't know anything regarding the plantation of flowers, like different growing conditions for different types. It is not a piece of cake to pick up the relevant skills to do this.


2. Shoes

1. Which do you prefer, comfortable shoes or pretty shoes?

你认为这些天人们聊天越来越多了吗? I definitely prefer comfortable shoes, because I walk a lot every day and I don't want my feet to hurt. Pretty shoes may look nice, but they are often not practical for daily use. For me, comfort always comes first, especially when I need to focus on study or work.

2. Do you like to buy shoes online or offline?

你曾经把书借给过你的朋友吗? I usually prefer buying shoes offline, because I can try them on and make sure they fit well. Online shopping is convenient, but sometimes the size or quality is not exactly what I expect. For important shoes, like sports shoes, I feel safer choosing them in a store.

3. How much money do you usually spend on shoes?

你喜欢把东西借给别人吗? I usually spend around 500 yuan on a pair of shoes, because I think mid-range shoes are both comfortable and durable. Sometimes I pay a bit more for sports shoes, since quality really matters for exercise. But in general, I don't like to waste money on very expensive brands.

4. Do you like buying shoes? How often do you buy shoes?

你知道有什么人住在这个地区吗? Yes, I like buying shoes because they can really change the way an outfit looks. I usually buy shoes about twice a year, mostly when the seasons change. For me, comfort is more important than fashion, so I don't shop for them too frequently.


3. Subjects

1. What is your favorite subject?

你会借钱给你的朋友吗?

Well, I'm a mathematics teacher , so naturally mathematics is my absolute favorite subject! What I love most about mathematics is its logical beauty and problem-solving nature. Unlike other subjects where answers might be subjective, mathematics has clear, elegant solutions that can be proven step by step. I find it incredibly satisfying when I can help students discover that "aha!" moment when a complex concept suddenly makes sense to them.

2. When you were studying it, did anyone help you? How did they help you?

你喜欢去那个地区的哪里?

Yes, absolutely. During my university years, I had a professor who completely changed my perspective on mathematics . Instead of just teaching formulas and theorems, she showed us how mathematics connects to real life and how it's the foundation of many other fields. She encouraged me to think critically and not just memorize methods. Her guidance helped me develop a deeper understanding of mathematics , which later inspired my own teaching philosophy—that mathematics should be about understanding and application, not just calculation.

3. Before you started this subject, did you think it was difficult?

你能把手机借给你的朋友吗?

To be honest, yes! In middle school , I found mathematics quite challenging, especially abstract concepts like functions and geometry. I used to think some people were just "born good at math " and I wasn't one of them. But later, I met a great teacher who showed me that mathematics is like a language—once you understand the logic and patterns, everything becomes clearer. This personal experience is exactly why I'm so patient with my own students who struggle with mathematics . I know that with the right approach and enough practice, anyone can improve .


4. Art

1. Do you like art?

学校有规定吗? Yes, I do. I enjoy looking at paintings and sculptures because they help me relax and think creatively. Sometimes I also try simple sketching myself, which makes me appreciate artists' work even more.

2. Do you like visiting art galleries?

你喜欢规则吗? Yes, I enjoy visiting art galleries whenever I have free time. They allow me to see different styles of artwork and understand the stories behind them. I find the atmosphere very peaceful, which makes the whole experience relaxing and inspiring.

3. Do you want to be an artist?

学校应该制定更多还是更少的规则? Not really. I admire artists a lot, but I don't think I have the talent or patience to make art professionally. For me, it's better to enjoy art as a hobby rather than a career.

4. Do you like modern art or traditional art?

老师们是认真的吗? I personally prefer traditional art because it reflects history and culture more vividly. For example, I enjoy looking at classical Chinese paintings, as they show harmony between humans and nature. Modern art is interesting too, but sometimes I find it a bit hard to understand.


5. Chatting

1. Do you like to chat with friends?

中国学校有规定吗? Yes, I really enjoy chatting with my friends because it helps me relax and share my daily experiences. We usually talk about school , hobbies, or even future plans, which makes our friendship stronger. For me, chatting is not just fun but also a way to feel supported.

2. What do you chat about when meeting friends?

你喜欢参观博物馆吗? When I meet my friends, we usually chat about our daily life, like school , work, or family. We also talk about hobbies, such as movies, music, or sports, which makes the conversation fun. Sometimes we even share our future plans, and that brings us closer together.

3. Do you prefer chatting online or face to face?

你多久去一次那里? I prefer chatting face to face, because it feels more personal and I can see my friends' emotions directly. Online chatting is convenient, but sometimes messages can be misunderstood. For me, real conversations build stronger connections.

4. Do you think people are chatting more and more these days?

你认为博物馆重要吗?

Yes, I think people are chatting more these days because of smartphones and social media. It's so easy to send messages anytime, and many people spend hours every day talking online. However, I feel that face-to-face conversations are becoming less frequent.


6. Borrow

1. Have you ever lent a book to your friend?

你上一次参观博物馆是什么时候?

Yes, I have lent books to my friends several times. For example, I once shared a novel that I really enjoyed, hoping they would like it too. I think lending books is a good way to exchange ideas and strengthen friendships.

2. Do you like lending things to others?

你住的城市拥挤吗?

Yes, I don't mind lending things to others, especially to close friends. I believe sharing items like books or notes can be helpful and shows trust. But I usually make sure the person will return them, because I don't want to lose something important.

3. Would you lend money to your friend?

你住的地方附近有拥挤的地方吗?

Yes, I would lend money to a close friend if they really needed it. I think helping friends in difficult times shows care and trust. But I would only lend an amount that I can afford to lose, just to avoid potential problems.

4. Would you lend your phone to your friend?

你喜欢拥挤的地方吗?

Yes, I would lend my phone to a friend if they needed to make a quick call or check something online. I think it's a simple way to help and it shows trust between friends. But I wouldn't feel comfortable if they wanted to keep it for a long time.


7. School Rules

1. Do schools have rules?

种植蔬菜在你们国家流行吗?

Yes, absolutely. As a teacher , I see rules as essential for creating a structured and effective learning environment. In my school , we have rules about homework submission, classroom behavior, and respect for others. These rules help students understand boundaries and develop self-discipline, which are crucial skills for their future.

2. Do you like rules?

你们城市有很多人种蔬菜吗?

Well, as a teacher , I have a balanced view of rules. I believe reasonable rules are necessary and helpful—they create order and fairness. However, I'm not a fan of overly strict rules that stifle creativity or individual expression. In my own teaching practice, I try to establish rules that are clear and purposeful rather than restrictive. For example, instead of just saying "be quiet," I encourage students to "respect others when they're speaking."

3. Should schools have more or fewer rules?

你经常在手机或电脑上看到广告吗?

I think it's not about the number of rules, but rather the quality and purpose of them. Schools should focus on having fewer but more meaningful rules that students can understand and respect. Too many rules can overwhelm students and make them feel restricted, while too few can lead to chaos. In my classroom, I prefer to involve students in discussing why certain rules exist, which helps them take ownership of their behavior.

4. Are teachers serious?

广告有重大影响吗?

Speaking from my experience as a teacher , I would say we need to be serious about maintaining a productive learning environment, but that doesn't mean we can't be warm and approachable. I'm serious when it comes to academic standards and classroom management, but I also make an effort to build friendly relationships with my students . I've found that students respond better when they see their teacher as someone who cares about them, not just someone who enforces rules.

5. Are there rules in Chinese schools?

你经常记得广告中的信息吗?

Yes, Chinese schools do have quite strict rules compared to some other countries. Students are required to wear uniforms, arrive on time, and show respect to teachers. There are also rules about homework completion and classroom behavior. While some might see these as strict, I believe they help create a focused learning environment. However, I've noticed that modern Chinese schools are becoming more flexible and student -centered, which I think is a positive development.


8. Museum

1. Do you like to visit museums?

有什么广告让你印象深刻吗? 这是关于什么的? Yes, I really enjoy visiting museums. They give me a chance to learn about history and culture in a more vivid way than just reading books. I also find the atmosphere in museums quite inspiring and relaxing.

2. How often would you go there?

未来会有更多的广告吗?

I don't go to museums very often, maybe just once or twice a year. Usually, I visit when there is a special exhibition that interests me. If I had more free time, I would definitely like to go more frequently.

3. Do you think museums are important?

你在公共场所戴耳机吗?

Yes, I think museums are very important. They preserve history and culture, allowing people to learn about the past in a direct and vivid way. Museums also play an educational role for young people, inspiring them to appreciate art and knowledge.

4. When was the last time you visited a museum?

你喜欢在公共休闲场所听音乐吗?

The last time I visited a museum was about six months ago. I went to a history museum in my city with some friends, and we saw an exhibition about ancient Chinese culture. It was really impressive and gave me a deeper understanding of our traditions.


9. Crowded place

1. Is the city where you live crowded?

你在公共场所会和陌生人说话吗? Yes, the city where I live is quite crowded, especially during rush hours. The streets are always full of cars and buses, and public transport is often packed with people. Sometimes it feels stressful, but the busy atmosphere also makes the city lively.

2. Is there a crowded place near where you live?

你喜欢呆在公共场所吗?

Yes, definitely. Near my apartment, there is a large shopping mall that is always crowded, especially on weekends. People go there not only for shopping but also for entertainment, because it has a cinema, restaurants, and even a skating rink. Personally, I find it a bit overwhelming during peak hours, but it is also quite convenient since I can buy almost everything I need in one place.

3. Do you like crowded places?

你喜欢去公共场所吗? To be honest, I don' t really enjoy crowded places.I often feel stressed when there are too many people around me, because it becomes noisy and difficult to move freely. For example, when I visit a popular tourist attraction or go shopping during a holiday, I usually get tired very quickly. That said, I sometimes don' t mind busy places like concerts or festivals, because the lively atmosphere can actually be quite exciting4.When was the last time you were in a crowded place? ? The last time I was in a crowded place was about two weeks ago, when I went to a big music festival in my city. There were thousands of people gathered in the open-air stadium, and it was packed from the very beginning. Although it was a bit uncomfortable to squeeze through the crowds, l really enjoyed the lively atmosphere, the cheering, and of course, the live performances. It was tiring, but overall it was an unforgettable experience

10. Growing vegetable {#growing-vegetable-}

你休息一下吗? Yes, growing vegetables is quite popular, especially in rural areas where many families have their own gardens. In cities, it' s becoming trendy too, as people want organic food and sometimes grow vegetables on balconies or in community gardens,

2. Do many people grow vegetable in your city?

你以前休息过吗? Not really. Since most people in my city live in apartments, they don' t have much space for gardening. But a few people still grow vegetables on their balconies or join community gardens for fresh and organic food3.Do you think it is easy to grow vegetables? ? I think growing vegetables is not that easy, because it takes time, patience, and some basic knowledge about soil and watering. But if people have the right tools and experience, it can become much easier and even enjoyable as a hobby4.Should school teach students how to grow vegetables? ? Yes, I think schools should teach students how to grow vegetables, because it helps them understand where food comes from and develop healthy eating habits. It can also teach responsibility and patience, which are useful life skills beyond the classroom

11. Advertisement {#advertisement}

1. Do you often see advertisement (on mobile or computer)?

你学习的时候睡过午觉吗? Yes, I see them almost every day on my phone, especially when I' m scroling through social media

2. Does advertising have a significant impact?

午睡后你感觉怎么样? Yes, I think it does, because it often influences people' s shopping choices and even shapes their lifestyle

3. Do you often remember the information in the advertisement?

你为什么需要休息一下? Not really,Iusually forget most ads quickly, unless they are really creative or funny

4. I's there any advertisement that impressed you much?What it is about?

你最喜欢那个地区的什么部分? Yes, I was really impressed by an advertisement from Apple about their iPhone. It showed how people could use the phone to take professional-quality photos, and the visuals were so creative that it stuck in my mind for a long time

5. Will there be more advertisements in the future?

休息时你通常做什么? Yes, definitely. With technology developing so fast, I think ads will appear even more often, especially on social media and streaming platforms

12. Public places {#public-places}

1. Do you wear headphones in public places?

喜欢长时间休息还是几次短时间休息? Yes, I often wear headphones in public places, especially when I' m on the subway or walking to school . They allow me to listen to music or podcasts without disturbing others, and sometimes they also help me avoid noise from the surroundings,

2. Do you like listening to music in public leisure places?

什么会让你快乐? Yes, I do.W hen I' m in public leisure places like parks or cafés, I enjoy listening to music because it helps me relax and creates a pleasant atmosphere. Sometimes it also makes the environment feel more lively and enjoyable

3. Do you talk to strangers when you're in public places?

你高兴的时候会拍照吗? Not very often.I usual ly keep to myself in public places, but if someone asks me for directions or starts a friendly conversation, I' m happy to respond. I think it really depends on the situation and whether I feel comfortable

4. Do you like staying in public places?

你看过哪些快乐的电影? Yes, I enjoy spending time in public places like parks, libraries, and cafes, because they make me feel connected to people even if l' m alone. But I prefer quieter spots, since crowded areas can sometimes be stressful

5. Do you like going to public places?

你什么时候感到快乐? Yes,I do. like going to public places such as parks or shopping malls, because they give me a chance to relax, meet friends, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. But I usually avoid very crowded areas, since they can be a bit noisy and stressful

13. Break time {#break-time}

1. Do you take a break?

你首先和谁分享你的快乐?

Yes, absolutely. As a teacher , I believe breaks are essential for maintaining energy and focus. Between classes, I usually have a short 10-minute break where I can prepare for the next lesson, grab some water, or chat briefly with colleagues. I've found that taking these breaks helps me stay energetic and gives my best to each class.

2. Have you rest before?

你外出时总是带着手机吗?

Of course! Teaching can be quite demanding both mentally and physically, so I make sure to rest regularly. After a long day of teaching and lesson planning, I need time to unwind. Sometimes I'll rest by reading educational articles to improve my teaching methods, or sometimes just by relaxing at home. Proper rest is crucial for being an effective teacher .

3. Have you ever taken a nap when studying?

你出门时带硬币吗?

Yes, I have. When I was preparing for my university exams, and now when I'm studying for my master 's application, I sometimes take a short power nap of about 20 minutes if I'm studying intensively. I've found that a brief rest can actually improve concentration and memory retention. It's better than pushing yourself when you're exhausted and not absorbing anything.

4. How do you feel after the nap?

你外出时会带食物或零食吗?

Usually, I feel refreshed and more alert after a short nap. It helps clear my mind and makes me more productive when I return to studying. However, I've learned to keep naps short—20 minutes or so—because if I sleep too long, I sometimes feel groggy and it takes time to get back into a focused state.

5. Why do you need to take a break?

你多久用一次现金?

Breaks are essential for maintaining high performance. Whether I'm teaching or studying, my brain needs time to process information and recharge. I've noticed that when I don't take breaks, I become less effective, more easily frustrated, and my creativity decreases. Short breaks help me maintain my passion for teaching and my enthusiasm for learning .

6. What do you usually do during a break?

你有没有做得很好的经历?

During my breaks at school , I usually interact with colleagues—sometimes we discuss teaching strategies or share stories about our students , which is actually quite refreshing and helpful. During personal study breaks, I might stretch, take a short walk, or review my teaching notes to see what worked well and what I can improve . I find that staying active during breaks is better than just scrolling through my phone.

7. Do you prefer long break or several short breaks?

你是否有过老师认为你做得很好的经历?

I prefer several short breaks throughout the day rather than one long break. For me, short, frequent breaks help maintain my energy and focus consistently. In teaching , this works well because I have natural breaks between classes. When I'm studying for my master 's, I use the Pomodoro technique—25 minutes of focused study followed by a 5-minute break—which keeps me productive without feeling overwhelmed.

14. Happy things {#happy-things}

1. What will make you happy?

你经常告诉你的朋友他们做得好吗?

As a teacher , the thing that makes me happiest is seeing my students have those "aha!" moments when they finally understand a concept they've been struggling with. There's nothing quite like the look on a student 's face when they realize, "I can do this!" I also feel happy when I see students helping each other or when a student who was struggling suddenly starts improving. Outside of work, spending time with family and friends, and achieving my own goals like pursuing my master 's degree, also bring me great joy.

2. Will you take photos when you are happy?

Yes, I do! When I see heartwarming moments in the classroom—like students working together collaboratively or celebrating a class achievement —I sometimes take photos to capture those memories. I also enjoy taking photos during my personal time, whether it's celebrating a milestone with family or friends, or documenting important moments in my educational journey. These photos serve as reminders of the positive moments that keep me motivated.

3. What happy movies have you seen?

哪些常见的活动可以让人放松?

I recently watched "The King's Speech," which I found really inspiring. While it's not a comedy, it's an uplifting story about overcoming personal challenges and finding one's voice. As a teacher , I really connected with the theme of perseverance and the importance of having someone who believes in you. The film reminded me of why I do what I do—every student needs someone to help them find their confidence and voice.

4. When do you feel happy?

为什么有些人喜欢极限运动?

I feel happiest when I see tangible progress in my students ' learning and confidence. For example, when a student who used to be afraid of mathematics starts raising their hand to answer questions, or when I receive a message from a parent saying their child has started enjoying mathematics for the first time. I also feel happy when I'm learning and growing myself—like when I'm preparing for my master 's application and discovering new educational theories that I can apply in my teaching .

5. Who do you share your happy things with first?

极限运动是好是坏?

I usually share my teaching triumphs first with my colleagues, especially those who understand the challenges and rewards of education . We often celebrate our students ' successes together. For personal achievements, like when I decided to pursue my master 's degree, I shared the news with my family first—they've been my biggest supporters throughout my journey from Liaoning to Shenzhen . Sharing happiness with people who understand and support you makes the joy even more meaningful.

15. Carry something {#carry-something}

1. Do you always take your mobile phone with you when going out?

Yes, I always take my phone with me when I go out, because it' s really useful for navigation, communication, and even mobile payments. Without it, I would feel a

2. Do you carry coins with you when going out?

过去一百年里最伟大的发明是什么? Not really. I hardly ever carry coins nowadays, because most payments can be made by mobile apps or bank cards. I only keep a few coins if I need them for vending

3. Do you bring food or snacks with you when going out?

科学对人类生活产生了什么影响? Not usually.I don' t often bring food or snacks with me, because it s easy to buy something outside if I get hungry. But sometimes, for a long tr ip, I like to pack some fruit or biscuits just in case

4. How often do you use cash?

个人能为科学研究做些什么? Hardly ever. In my daily life, I usually pay by mobile apps or bank cards, because they re faster and more convenient. I only use cash on rare occasions, like in small markets or when the machines don' t work

16. Doing something well {#doing-something-well}

1. Do you have an experience that you did something well?

国际科学合作能带来哪些影响?

Yes, absolutely! One experience I'm particularly proud of was during my junior high school internship. I faced a challenge where nearly half of my Grade 7 students weren't submitting homework on time—the submission rate was only 60%. Instead of just lecturing them, I designed an innovative " Math Task Card" group competition mechanism. I divided exercises into different difficulty levels and encouraged students to help each other earn points. I also established a "Growth Record" and "Secret Mailbox" to listen to their voices. The results were remarkable—the homework submission rate jumped from 60% to 98%! This experience taught me that effective teaching is about inspiring intrinsic motivation, not just forcing compliance.

2. Do you have an experience that your teacher thought you did a good job?

Yes, I do. When I was working at Shenzhen New Oriental, my supervisor recognized my teaching approach by honoring me as " Teacher of the Month" three times. What impressed them most was my differentiated teaching strategy—I developed customized approaches for students at different levels. For struggling students , I focused on building foundations and creating positive feedback; for advanced students , I provided specialized training on complex topics. The results spoke for themselves: I helped one student improve from 50 to 94 points, ranking second in the class. My supervisor really appreciated how I could identify each student 's potential and help them achieve breakthrough improvements.

3. Do you often tell your friends when they do something well?

所有博物馆和历史建筑都应该售票吗?

Yes, I do! In fact, this is something I do quite often, both with my friends and with my students . I believe that genuine recognition and encouragement can be incredibly powerful. When I see my colleagues trying a new teaching method or my students making even small progress, I make it a point to acknowledge their effort and celebrate their success . I've found that positive reinforcement not only boosts confidence but also motivates people to continue improving. It's something I learned from my own teaching experience—when students feel seen and appreciated, they're more likely to stay engaged and keep pushing themselves.


Part 2&3

1.

Part 2

Describe a new activity that you tried for the first time and felt excited about

You should say:

  • What it was

  • When you tried

  • Who you did with

  • and explain why did you feel excited

One new activity I tried for the first time was kayaking. I did it last summer during a short holiday trip to a lake near my city. I went there with two of my close friends, because we all wanted to do something adventurous together.

At the beginning, I was a little nervous since I had never controlled a kayak before, and I was afraid that I might fall into the water. But after the instructor gave us some basic training, I quickly got the hang of it. Once l started paddling, I felt really free and relaxed, as if li was part of nature.

What made it even more exciting was that the water was crystal clear, the weather was perfect, and we were racing each other across the lake. I could also see beautiful mountains in the background, which made the whole experience unforgettable.

I felt excited because it was completely different from my daily routine. Normally, I spend most of my time studying indoors, so trying kayaking gave me a sense of adventure, achievement , and a strong connection with nature.

Part 3

1. What common activities could make people relax?

你认为人们更喜欢去哪里参观? Many people relax with light exercise like a short walk or gentle yoga because rhythmic movement and breathing help them switch off. Others prefer screen-free routines - reading for pleasure, journaling, cooking - or low-stakes socialising like having tea with a friend. The common thread is that the activity feels low-pressure and repeatable.

2. Why do some people like extreme sports?

人们更喜欢哪种建筑,别墅还是公寓? Some people like extreme sports for the adrenaline and a sense of mastery - the clear goals and instant feedback create a flow state that everyday life rarely provides. They also enjoy the identity and community that come from pushing their limits, while managed risk - with better gear, coaching and safety rules - makes the thrill feel acceptable.

3. Are extreme sports good or bad?

为什么人们更喜欢住在新房子里? I d say both good and bad.They can build fitness, focus and confidence, and give a rare flow state and sense of community; but when risk is unmanaged - poor training, peer pressure or unsafe locations - the chance of injury and cost rises. So they' re positive only when people use qualified coaching, protective gear, gradual progression and clear limits.


2. ()

Part 2

Describe an area of science (physics, biology, psychology, etc) that interests you

You should say:

  • What it is

  • When you knew it

  • How you learnt it

  • And explain why you are interested

Well, the area of science that fascinates me the most is psychology, which is the study of the human mind and behavior. I first came across it during my high school years when I read an article about how stress can affect people' s physical health.

At that moment, I realized that psychology is not only about theories but also closely linked to everyday life.

Later, I began to learn more about it through books and online courses. For instance, I read “Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman, which explains how people make decisions, sometimes logically and sometimes irrationally. I also took several free online lectures, which helped me understand basic psychological concepts such as memory, learning , and motivation. These resources really opened a new window for me.

The reason why l' m particularly interested in psychology is that it helps me better understand myself and the people around me. For example, learning about emotional intelligence taught me how to manage stress and communicate more effectively with others. What ' s more, psychology has practical applications in many fields, such as education , healthcare, and even business, which makes it a very versatile subject.

In conclusion, psychology is the area of science that inspires me the most because it not only deepens my knowledge about human behavior but also improves my daily life. I believe I will continue exploring this subject in the future, maybe even at a profesional level.

Part 3

1. What is the best invention in the past one hundred years?

人们更喜欢哪一种,现代建筑还是传统建筑? I would say the internet is the best invention in the past hundred years. It has completely changed the way we live and work, making information instantly accessible. More importantly, it connects people worldwide, which was unimaginable before, so l believe nothing else has had such a huge impact.

2. What is the influence of science on human life?

Science has a huge influence on human life because it makes our daily activities much easier and more efficient. For example, modern medicine allows people to live longer and healthier lives. It also drives innovation in areas like transport and communication, which makes the world more connected than ever before.

3. What can individuals do for scientific research?

谁更喜欢长途旅行,年轻人还是老年人? I think ordinary people can contribute to scientific research in several ways. For instance, they can take part in citizen science projects, like recording local weather data or tracking wildlife. They can also support research f inancially through donations, or simply by spreading awareness about scientific findings

4. What influence can international cooperation in science bring about?

人们在旅行前准备了什么? International cooperation in science can speed up progress because countries share resources, knowledge, and technology. For example, global teamwork in developing vaccines during the pandemic Saved milions of lives. It also builds mutual trust among nations and helps address global issues like climate change more effectively.


3.

Part 2

Describe an interesting building you'd like to visit

You should say:

  • Where it is

  • How did you know it

  • What do you know about it

  • and explain how will you feel if you go there

One building l' d really like to visit is the Eiffel Tower, which is in Paris, France.

It's probably one of the most iconic structures in the world, and I've always dreamed of seeing it in person rather than just in pictures.

I first learned about the Eiffel Tower when I was a child. I saw it in a postcard that my aunt brought back from France, and later I came across it in films and travel shows.

Each time I saw it, I felt even more curious about what it would be like to stand beneath it.

What I know is that the tower was completed in 1889 for the World' s Fair, and it was originally criticized for its unusual design. However, over time it became a symbol of Paris and French culture. I' ve also read that it lights up beautifully at night, which makes it even more romantic.

If I get the chance to visit, I think I'll feel really amazed and emotional. Standing at the top and looking over the whole city of Paris would be unforgettable. It would also give me a sense of achievement , because it' s been on my bucket list for such a long time.

Part 3

1. Should all museums and historical buildings sell tickets?

人们通常会为旅行做计划吗? 1 don' t think all of them should charge admission. Some national museums or historical sites could be free so that everyone has access to culture and history. But for special exhibitions or sites that require high maintenance, selling tickets is reasonable to cover the costs.

2. Where do you think people prefer to visit?

为什么人们更喜欢在自己的国家旅行而不是在国外旅行? I think many people prefer to visit famous cities, such as Paris or New York, because they offer a mix of culture, history, and modern attractions. Others may enjoy natural destinations like beaches or mountains, where they can relax and escape from busy city life. It really depends on individual interests and lifestyles.

3. Which kind of building do people prefer, villa or apartment?

为什么人们认为长途旅行比短途旅行更难? I think it really depends on people' s lifestyle and income. Many young people in big cities prefer apartments because they are more affordable and closer to work.

However, wealthier families often choose villas since they provide more space, privacy, and a better living environment.

4. Why do people prefer to live in new houses?

People prefer new houses mainly because they are usually more comfortable and modern. New buildings often have better facilities, like elevators, parking spaces, and good insulation. Also, living in a new house can give people a sense of freshness and pride

5. Which do people prefer, modern buildings or traditional buildings?

孩子们有什么样的天赋? I think people' s preferences really depend on the purpose. For daily life, many prefer modern buildings because they are more convenient and have better facilities. But when it comes to tourism or cultural value, traditional buildings are often more attractive since they represent history and identity.


4.

Part 2

Describe a long journey you want to enjoy again

You should say:

  • When you took the journey

  • Where you went

  • Who you with

  • and explain why you wanted to go again

About three years ago, I went on a long journey during my summer holiday. It was one of the most unforgettable trips I have ever had, and I still remember every detail clearly.

I traveled from my hometown to Tibet by train, which took almost two days. The scenery along the way was breathtaking, with endless grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and clear blue skies. It felt like traveling through a painting.

I was with two of my best friends, and we spent most of the time chatting, playing cards, and enjoying the views together. Sharing the journey with close friends made it even more memorable and fun.

I would love to take this journey again because it gave me a sense of peace and freedom that I can hardly find in daily life. Traveling across such magnificent landscapes reminded me how big and beautiful the World is. Going there again would be a perfect way to relax and recharge myself.

Part 3

1. Who prefer long journey, young people or old people?

我们怎么知道一个孩子是否有天赋? I think young people usually prefer long journeys because they are more energetic and curious about exploring new places. Older people, on the other hand, might enjoy shorter and more comfortable trips since long travel can be tiring. But of course, it also depends on individual health and interests.

2. What do people prepare before journey?

过分要求孩子做事会有什么后果? Before a journey, people usually prepare basic things like clothes, tickets, and travel documents. Many also plan their itineraries in advance to save time and avoid stress. In addition, some people prepare snacks, medicine, or even cameras to make the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

3. Will people usually make plans for journey?

人才对社会有多有用? Yes, most people like to make plans before a journey because it helps them manage time and avoid unexpected problems. For example, they may book hotels and check transportation in advance. However, some travelers prefer a flexible schedule, as they enjoy the freedom of making decisions on the spot

4. Why do people prefer traveling in their own countries to foreign countries?

如果人们不发挥他们的才能,这是浪费时间吗? Many people prefer domestic travel because it is usually cheaper and more convenient.They don't need to worry about visas, language barriers, or long flightsIn addition, traveling w ithin their own country allows them to explore local culture more deeply and feel a stronger sense of belonging.

5. Why do people think long journey is more difficult than short journey?

People find long journeys more difficult mainly because they require more time, money, and energy. Sitting for hours on planes or trains can be exhausting and uncomfortable. Also, long trips often involve complicated planning, like booking multiple tickets or arranging accommodation, which makes them more challenging than short ones.


5.

Part 2

Describe a natural talent that you have (e.g., music/ mathematics )

(/)

You should say:

  • What it is

  • Why it is your natural talent

  • When you use it

  • and explain how you feel about it

One natural talent I believe I have is storytelling. Ever since I was a child, I've found it quite easy to make up stories and share them in an interesting way, whether it's for school activities or just chatting with friends.

I think it's a natural talent because I don't need much preparation, and ideas just come to me quickly. Unlike other skills that require hours of practice, storytelling feels natural and spontaneous. People often tell me they enjoy listening to my stories, which makes me more confident.

I often use this talent when I give presentations at school or when I'm trying to make new friends. It helps me break the ice and keep people engaged. Sometimes I also use it when helping younger children with reading, as I can make the stories more vivid for them.

I feel really proud and grateful for having this ability. Storytelling not only makes my life more enjoyable but also allows me to connect with others in a meaningful way. I hope I can develop this talent further and maybe even use it in my future career.

Part 3

1. What kind of talents do children have?

为什么现在人们越来越不愿意和家人一起吃饭? I think children often show talents in areas like music, drawing, and sports. They are usually very creative and learn new skils quickly. Some kids are also good at storytelling or performing, which shows their confidence and imagination.

2. How can we know a child have talent or not?

不同场合的食物有什么不同? We can usually notice a child' s talent by observing their interests and performanceFor example if a child spends a lot of time drawing and improves quickly, it may show artistic talent. Teachers and parents can also give opportunities in different activities to see where the child shines.

3. What are the consequences of overly demanding children to do things?

人们在谈论大事时需要食物吗? If chidren are pushed too hard, they may feel stressed and lose interest in the activity. In the long run, this pressure can harm their confidence and even damage the relationship with their parents.Instead of developing talent, they might end up feeling frustrated or resistant.

4. How useful talent is for society?

Talent is very useful for society because talented people can drive progress in areas like science, art, and technology. For example, great scientists develop life-saving medicines, and gifted artists enrich our culture. Talents not only solve real problems but also inspire others to achieve more.

5. Is it a waste of time if people don't use their talents?

为什么人们喜欢去有树或森林的地方? l wouldn' t say it' s always a waste of time, but it can be a pity if talents are never developed. Talents are valuable resources that could benefit both the individual and society. If someone ignores them completely, they might miss opportunities for personal growth and contribution.


6.

Part 2

Describe a time when you had dinner together with your friend

You should say:

  • When it was

  • What did you eat

  • What did you talk about

  • and explain how do you feel about it

Last month, I had dinner with one of my closest friends to celebrate her birthday.

We chose a cozy Italian restaurant near my university, and it turned out to be a really special evening.

We ordered a variety of dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood risotto. For dessert, we shared a slice of chocolate cake, which was beautifully decorated. The food was delicious and full of flavor, making the meal unforgettable.

During dinner, we talked about our plans for the future, such as travel, career goals , and personal dreams. We also shared funny memories from high school , which made us laugh a lot. The conversation was both meaningful and enjoyable.

I felt really happy and relaxed that evening. Spending time with a true friend reminded me of how important friendship is in my life. I would definitely love to have more dinners like that in the future.

Part 3

1. Why do people nowadays less and less willing to have meals with their families?

自然景观比城市景观好吗? I think the main reason is that people are busier with work or study, so they have less time to sit down with their families. In addition, many young people prefer eating out with friends or ordering food online, which makes family meals less common. Modern lifestyles have simply changed people' s priorities.

2. What are the differences in food for different occasions?

所有人都需要大自然吗? Food often varies depending on the occasion. For example, during festivals or weddings, people usually prepare special dishes like dumplings or big banquets to celebrate. On ordinary days, meals are much simpler and mainly focus on being quick and convenient. The difference is that festive food carries cultural meaning, while daily food is more about practicality.

3. Do people need food when they are talking about big things?

人们是否天生就要保护环境? I don' tthink food is always necessary when people discuss important matters, but it can create a more relaxed atmosphere. Sharing a meal often helps people feel comfortable and open, which makes serious conversations easier.That' s why many business meetings or family discussions take place over dinner.


7.

Part 2

Describe a place with a lot of trees that you would like to visit (e.g. a forest, oasis)

()

You should say:

  • Where it is

  • How you knew this place

  • What it is like

  • And explain why you would like to visit it

One place with a lot of trees that I would love to visit is the Amazon rainforest in South America. It's the largest tropical rainforest in the world, stretching across several countries such as Brazil and Peru.

I first learned about the Amazon in geography class when I was in middle school .

Later, I saw documentaries showing its incredible biodiversity, with thousands of species of plants and animals. Those images left a strong impression on me.

The Amazon is full of towering trees, winding rivers, and dense vegetation. It is often called "the lungs of the Earth" because it produces so much oxygen. The environment looks both mysterious and magnificent, almost like another world.

I'd like to visit the Amazon because it would be an amazing adventure and a chance to experience untouched nature. Exploring such a unique ecosystem would not only be exciting but also educational . I believe the journey would inspire me to care more about protecting the environment.

Part 3

1. Why do people like visiting places with trees or forests?

People enjoy visiting forests because they offer fresh air and beautiful scenery, which help people relax. Spending time among trees also reduces stress and gives people a break from noisy city life. In addition, forests allow visitors to feel closer to nature and appreciate its beauty.

2. Are natural views better than city views?

你认为赢得比赛还是遵守体育规则更重要? I think natural views are generally better because they give people peace, fresh air, and a sense of relaxation. Mountains, rivers, and forests often feel more refreshing than crowded streets and tall buildings. However, city views can also be attractive at night, with all the lights and modern architecture.

3. Do all people need some nature?

你同意有时候人们应该撒谎吗? Yes, I believe everyone needs some connection with nature. Green spaces and fresh air are important for both physical and mental health. Even people living in big cities benefit from parks or short trips to the countryside, as these experiences reduce stress and improve well-being.

4. Are people hard-wired to protect environment?

你怎么知道别人在撒谎? I don' t think people are naturally hard-w ired to protect the environment. Many people care more about convenience or economic benefits than sustainability However, with education and awareness, people can develop a stronger sense of responsibility and take action to protect nature.


8.

Part 2

Describe a time when you told your friend an important truth

You should say:

  • Who your friend is

  • What the truth was

  • What your friend's reaction was

  • And explain why you think it was important to tell your friend the truth

One of my closest friends is Anna, a classmate from high school . We have known each other for many years and usually share everything honestly.

A few years ago, she was preparing for an important exam, but I noticed she was spending too much time on her phone instead of studying. I decided to tell her the truth - that she was getting distracted and needed to focus more on her preparation.

At first, she felt a little embarrassed and even argued with me. But later she admitted I was right and thanked me for being honest. Eventually, she reduced her phone use and worked harder on her studies.

I think it was important to tell her the truth because real friendship is based on honesty and support. By being straightforward, I helped her realize her problem and improve her performance. It also strengthened the trust between us.

Part 3

1. Do you think it's more important to win a game or follow the rules in sports?

你认为我们应该一直说实话吗? I think following the rules is more important than just winning. Rules make the game fair and enjoyable for everyone, while winning through cheating has no real value. Of course, athletes should try their best to win, but they must respect the spirit of sportsmanship first.

2. Do you agree that sometimes people should tell lies?

Yes, I agree that in some situations small lies are acceptable. For example, people may tell a white lie to protect someone' s feelings or to avoid unnecessary conflict.

Of course, honesty is important in general, but being kind and considerate can sometimes matter more.

3. How do you know when others are telling lies?

在你们国家流行什么样的音乐? lt' s not always easy, but sometimes you can notice small signs. For example, people might avoid eye contact, change their tone of voice, or give very vague answers. Of course, these signs are not always reliable, but they can make you feel something is not quite true.

4. Do you think we should tell the truth at all times?

年轻人喜欢什么样的音乐? I don' tthink we should tell the truth at all times. In most situations, honesty is the best policy because it builds trust. But sometimes, a small white lie can be kinder, especially when the truth might hurt someone' s feelings unnecessarily.


9.

Part 2

Describe a friend of yours who is good at music/singing

描述你的一个擅长音乐/唱歌的朋友

You should say:

  • Who he/she is

  • When/where you listen to his/her music/singing

  • What kind of music/songs he/she is good at

  • And explain how you feel when listening to his music/singing

One of my close friends is Lily, a university classmate who is really talented at singing. She has been part of the school choir for several years and is often invited to perform at different events.

I usually listen to her singing during campus events, such as cultural festivals or talent shows. Sometimes she even sings casually in the dorm, and her voice immediately grabs everyone' s attention.

She is especially good at pop and classical songs. For example, she can sing Adele's ballads with powerful emotion, but she can also perform traditional Chinese songs with elegance and control. This wide range really shows her versatility.

Whenever I listen to her singing, I feel both impressed and inspired. Her voice has the power to lift my mood and sometimes even brings me to tears. I' m really proud to have a friend who can touch people' s hearts through music.

Part 3

你认为音乐对学校里的孩子有益吗? In my country, pop music is the most popular, especially among young people.

Many local singers produce catchy songs that are widely shared on social media.

Traditional music is still valued, but modern pop and rap seem to attract larger audiences today.

2. What kind of music do young people like?

孩子学习乐器有什么好处? Young people usually enjoy pop and hip-hop music because it i s energetic and trendy. Many also like electronic music for parties and social events. At the same time, some prefer soft ballads when they want to relax, so their choices often depend on mood and occasion.

3. Do you think music is beneficial for children at school ?

你知道今天的孩子们喜欢什么样的音乐吗? Yes, I think music is very beneficial for children at school . It helps them develop creativity and improves their concentration. Music classes also give students a chance to express emotions and work together, which builds teamwork and confidence.

4. What are the benefits of children learning a musical instrument?

你认为政府应该在音乐会上投入更多资金吗? learning a musical instrument can improve children' s patience and discipline, because regular practice requires focus. It also develops their memory and coordination skills. Besides, playing music can boost their confidence when they perform in front of others.

5. Do you know what kind of music children like today?

Yes, I think most children today enjoy lively and catchy music, such as pop songs or K-pop. Many of them also follow cartoon theme songs or music from online games, which are fun and easy to remember. Their choices usually reflect what they see on social media or hear from friends.

6. Do you think the government should invest more money on concerts?

为什么有些人比其他人更愿意保护野生动物? I think the government could support concerts, butit shouldn' t be the top priorityConcerts do promote culture and give people entertainment, but public money is often needed more for healthcare and education . A balanced approach would be best, with some funding for cultural events but not too much.


10.

Part 2

Describe a wild animal that you want to know more about

You should say:

  • What it is

  • When you saw it

  • Where you saw it

  • And explain why you want to know more about it

The wild animal I would like to know more about is the panda. It's one of the most famous animals in China and also a symbol of peace and friendship around the world.

The first time I saw a panda was about five years ago during a family trip. We went to a zoo in Chengdu, which is well known for its panda breeding and research center.

I remember standing in front of a large enclosure where several pandas were eating bamboo. They looked so relaxed and playful, which made the experience unforgettable.

I want to know more about pandas because they are endangered and need protection. Learning about their behavior and living habits might help us understand how to save them. Also, pandas are so adorable that I'd love to learn how they survive in the wild.

Part 3

1. Why are some people more willing to protect wild animals than others?

你认为带孩子去动物园看动物重要吗? Some people are more wiling to protect wild animals because they are more aware of environmental issues and the importance of biodiversity. They may also feel a stronger sense of responsibility or empathy towards animals. Others, however, might focus more on their own daily problems and see wildlife protection as less relevant to their lives.

2. Do you think it's important to take children to the zoo to see animals?

为什么孩子们喜欢动物? Yes, I think taking children to the zoo is important because it gives them a chance to see real animals rather than just pictures in books. This experience can spark their curiosity about nature and teach them the value of protecting wildlife.

Moreover, zoos often provide educational programs that make learning more engaging.

3. Why do children like animals?

孩子们如何学习动物? Children like animals because they find them cute and interesting. Many animals are playful, which makes children feel happy and excited. Also, kids often see animals in cartoons or storybooks, so they naturally feel curious and connected to them.

4. How can children learn about animals?

旅游业对动物有积极还是消极的影响? Children can learn about animals in different ways. They can read books and watch documentaries to gain knowledge, and they can also visit zoos or wildlife parks to see animals directly. In addition, schools often organize science classes or activities that teach children how animals live and survive.

5. Does tourism have a positive or negative impact on animals?

Tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on animals. On the one hand, it raises awareness and provides funding for wildlife protection. On the other hand, too many tourists may disturb animals' natural habitats and cause stress. So the impact really depends on how tourism is managed.


11.

Part 2

Describe an interesting traditional story that you've read

You should say:

  • What it is about

  • When you read it

  • How you feel about it

  • and explain why do you think it is interesting

One traditional story that I found really interesting is Journey to the West, a classic Chinese novel. It tells the adventures of the Monkey King, who accompanies a monk and other disciples on a journey to India to collect Buddhist scriptures.

I first read this story when I was in primary school , and later I watched several TV adaptations. At that time, I didn't fully understand all the religious elements, but I enjoyed the magical battles and imaginative characters.

The story made me feel amazed and entertained. I admired the Monkey King's cleverness and bravery, and I also felt inspired by the monk's persistence in pursuing his goal despite so many challenges .

I think the story is interesting because it combines fantasy with moral lessons. On the one hand, it's full of imaginative scenes, and on the other hand, it teaches values like teamwork, loyalty, and perseverance. That's why it is still popular and meaningful even today.

Part 3

1. Why should children listen to bedtime stories?

为什么孩子们应该听睡前故事? Children should listen to bedtime stories because they stimulate imagination and creativity. Stories also teach moral lessons in a simple way, helping children understand values like kindness and honesty.

In addition, bedtime reading builds a closer bond between parents and children.

2. Are good stories important for movies?

好故事对电影重要吗? Yes, I think good stories are very important for movies because they keep the audience engaged from beginning to end. Even if a film has great actors or special effects, it won't be memorable without a strong storyline.

A good story gives the movie depth and emotional impact.

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

孩子们喜欢读什么样的书? Children usually enjoy picture books and fairy tales because they are colorful and easy to understand. Many also like adventure stories or animal stories, which stimulate their imagination. As they grow older, some begin to prefer comic books or fantasy novels.

4. What stories in China are adapted from real events?

中国有哪些故事是根据真实事件改编的? In China, many stories are adapted from real historical events. For example, the story of Yue Fei is based on a loyal general from the Song Dynasty, and his spirit of patriotism is still admired today. Another example is the story of Lei Feng, which encourages people to help others and serve society.

5. Is it good for children's development when parents tell them bedtime stories?

父母给孩子讲睡前故事对他们的发展有好处吗? Yes, I think it is very good for children's development. Bedtime stories not only improve their language and imagination but also teach them moral lessons in an easy way. More importantly, storytelling builds a close bond between parents and children, which is essential for emotional growth.


12.

Part 2

Describe a person you know who works in a family business (such as store/restaurant)

(/)

You should say:

  • Who he/she is

  • What the business is

  • What products it sells

  • And explain what you have learned from him/her

One person I know who works in a family business is my friend Jack. He helps his parents run a small restaurant in my hometown, and he has been involved since he was a teenager.

The restaurant is quite popular in the local community. It mainly serves traditional Chinese dishes, and people like to go there for family gatherings or celebrations.

Apart from food, the restaurant also sells homemade sauces and snacks that customers can take home. Jack once told me that these small products actually bring in extra income for the family.

From Jack, I learned the value of hard work and responsibility. Even though he is young, he balances schoolwork with helping in the restaurant. His attitude showed me that family businesses are not only about making money, but also about teamwork and supporting each other.

Part 3

1. Would you like to start a family business?

Yes, I would like to start a family business in the future, maybe something related to education or food. I think working with family members can build stronger relationships and create a sense of trust. Of course, it might be challenging at times, but the shared goals would make it worthwhile.

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of family businesses?

你想创办家族企业吗? One advantage of family businesses is that they are built on trust and strong relationships, which makes teamwork easier. They can also pass down experience and values from one generation to another. However, a disadvantage is that personal conflicts may affect business decisions, and sometimes it's hard to separate work from family life.

3. Why do young people start their own business?

家族企业的优缺点是什么? Young people often start their own businesses because they want independence and the freedom to make their own decisions. Many of them also hope to turn their passions, like technology or fashion, into careers. Besides, with the rise of the internet, it has become easier for young entrepreneurs to find opportunities and customers.

4. What qualities do people need when starting their own business?

年轻人为什么要创业? I think people need creativity and problem-solving skils when starting their own business, because new ideas attract customers. They also need persistence, since running a business usually involves many challenges . Finally, good communication skills are essential to build networks and win trust from clients.


13.

Part 2

Describe an occasion when you lost your way

You should say:

  • where you were

  • what happened

  • How you felt

  • And explain how you found your way

I remember once getting lost in Beijing when I was visiting the Summer Palace with my friends. The place is huge, with many gardens, lakes, and winding paths, and I accidentally walked too far from the main entrance.

At first, I tried to follow the signs, but they were a bit confusing. I walked in circles for almost half an hour and even ended up near the same lake twice. It was quite frustrating because my phone battery was very low, so I couldn't fully rely on the map app.

I felt nervous and a little embarrassed, especially since my friends were waiting for me at the gate. At the same time, I was worried that I might keep them waiting too long.

Finally, I asked a security guard for directions, and he kindly guided me back to the main entrance. I was relieved when I saw my friends again, and I learned that sometimes asking for help is the fastest solution.

Part 3

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

人们在创业时需要什么品质? Some people get lost more easily because they have a poor sense of direction or weak spatial awareness. Others may not pay enough attention to their surroundings, especially if they rely too much on digital maps. In contrast, people with good memory and observation skills usually find it easier to navigate.

2. Do you think it is important to be able to read a map?

Yes, I think it' s important to be able to read a map because it helps people understand directions without relying completely on GPS. Map-reading also improves spatial awareness and problem-solving skills. Even though technology is convenient, knowing how to read a map can be very useful in emergencies.

3. Do you think it is important to do some preparation before you travel to new places?

为什么有些人比其他人更容易迷路? Yes, I think preparation is very important before traveling to new places.It helps people learn about local culture, transportation, and safety tips, which makes the trip smoother. Without preparation, travelers may waste time or face unexpected problems.

4. How can people find their way when they are lost?

你认为能读懂地图重要吗? People can find their way by using digital maps on their phones, which usually give accurate directions. Another way is to ask local people for help, since they know the area well. In some cases, looking for clear landmarks like stations or main roads can also guide them back.

5. Is a paper map still necessary?

你认为在去新地方旅行之前做一些准备重要吗? I think a paper map is stil necessary in some situations.For example, when people travel to remote areas with no internet or when their phone battery dies, a paper map can be very helpful. Even though most people rely on digital maps now, paper maps are a reliable backup.

6. How do people react when they get lost?

当人们迷路时,他们怎么能找到路呢? People react differently when they get lost. Some may feel anxious and frustrated, especially if they are in an unfamiliar place. Others try to stay calm and look for solutions, like checking a map or asking for directions. It really depends on their personality and experience.


14.

Part 2

Describe a toy that you loved in your childhood

You should say:

  • What the toy was

  • Who gave it to you

  • How often you played with it

  • And explain why it was so special to you

One toy that I really loved in my childhood was a small Lego set. It wasn't very big, but it came with colorful blocks that could be used to build houses, cars, or even little robots.

It was a birthday gift from my parents when I was about seven years old. I still remember the excitement I felt when I unwrapped the box and saw all the tiny pieces inside.

I played with it almost every day after school . Sometimes I would follow the instructions, but most of the time I preferred to create my own designs. It really kept me entertained for hours.

This toy was special to me because it developed my creativity and imagination. It also gave me a sense of achievement whenever I finished building something. Even now, when I see Lego, it reminds me of the happiest part of my childhood.

Part 3

1. Do boys and girls prefer different kinds of toys?

还需要纸质地图吗? Traditionally, boys and girls tend to prefer di ferent kinds of toys. For example, boys often like cars or action figures, while girls may choose dolls or art sets. But nowadays, the difference is becoming smaller, because many children enjoy building toys, puzzles, or electronic games regardless of gender.

人们迷路时会有什么反应? Toys in the past were usually simple and traditional, like dolls, wooden cars, or board games. Nowadays, many toys are electronic or digital, such as video games and smart robots. Compared with the old ones, modern toys are more interactive, but they may not encourage as much imagination as traditional toys did.

3. What should people consider when choosing a toy for a child?

When choosing a toy for a child, people should first consider safety, to make sure there are no small parts that could be dangerous. They should also think about the child' s age and interests, because toys that match these are more engaging. Finally educational value is important, since good toys can help children learn new skills while having fun.

4. Should kids be permitted to pick their own toys at a toy store?

男孩和女孩喜欢不同种类的玩具吗? Yes, I think kids should be allowed to pick their own toys, because it gives them a sense of independence and choice. However, parents should guide them to select safe and age-appropriate toys. This way, children can enjoy freedom while still learning to make responsible decisions.


15.

Part 2

Describe a time you received a good service from a staff member in a shop/company

描述一次你从商店/公司的工作人员那里得到良好服务的经历

You should say:

  • Where the shop/company is

  • When you received the good service

  • What service you received

  • And explain how you felt about the service

Last year, I received excellent service at an Apple store in Beijing. I went there to fix my iPhone because the screen had cracked after I dropped it accidentally.

It happened on a busy weekend, so the store was full of customers. I expected to wait for hours, but one staff member came quickly, registered my information, and explained the repair process clearly.

He not only arranged for my phone to be repaired in less than two hours but also gave me a temporary phone to use while I waited. On top of that, he patiently answered my questions about battery care and phone updates.

I felt really satisfied and impressed, because the staff member was both professional and considerate. The whole experience made me trust the brand even more, and I realized that good service can completely change a customer's mood.

Part 3

1. Do you think expensive services are necessarily good services?

过去流行的玩具与现在流行的玩具相比如何? I don' t think expensive services are always good. Sometimes high prices only reflect brand value or location, rather than the real quality of the service. In fact, many affordable services can be just as professional and satisfying, depending on the staff' s attitude and skills.

2. Do you think good services are important?

人们在为孩子选择玩具时应该考虑什么? Yes, I think good services are very important because they directly affect customer satisfaction. Even if a product is good, poor service can make people feel disappointed. On the other hand, excellent service can build trust and encourage customers to return.

3. Which one is better, face to face service or online service?

孩子们应该被允许在玩具店挑选自己的玩具吗? I think both have their advantages, but face-to-face service is often better when personal interaction is needed, like in healthcare or education . Online service, on the other hand, is more convenient for simple tasks such as shopping or paying bills. So it really depends on the situation and the customer' s needs.

4. What jobs require staff to get in touch with many people?

Jobs in customer service, such as sales assistants or hotel receptionists, require staff to interact with many people every day. Teachers and doctors also meet lots of individuals because their workis directly connected with people' s needs. In general any job that provides public service involves constant communication.


16.

Part 2

Describe an experience that someone apologized to you

You should say:

  • When he/she apologized

  • What he/she had done to you

  • Why he/she apologized to you

  • And explain how you felt about it

I remember a time when my classmate apologized to me during high school . It happened after a group project, around the middle of the semester.

In our project, he forgot to complete his part of the research, which caused us to hand in the assignment late. At first, I was really upset because I had spent a lot of time trying to finish my own section.

The next day, he came to me and sincerely apologized, saying that he had been sick and couldn't manage his time well. He promised to take responsibility and do more work for the next task.

I felt relieved and accepted his apology because I could see he was honest. After that, we worked better as a team, and our final project turned out really well. This experience taught me the value of understanding and forgiveness.

Part 3

1. Why do some people not like to apologize?

你认为昂贵的服务一定是好的服务吗? Some people don' t like to apologize because they feel it hurts their pride or makes them look weak. Others may avoid it simply because they find it uncomfortable to admit mistakes. In some cases, people think saying sorry won' t change the situation, so they prefer to stay silent.

2. Do people in your country like to apologize?

你认为好的服务重要吗? Yes, I think people in my country are generally willing to apologize, especially in daily life situations like bumping into someone on the street. Saying sorry is ofter seen as a polite gesture rather than a big admission of guilt. However, in more serious cases, some people may hesitate because they worry about losing face.

3. Are words more important than deeds?

面对面服务和在线服务哪个更好? I think deeds are usually more important than words, because actions show real commitment. For example, promising to help is good, but actually helping means much more. Still, words also matter in building trust, but without actions they can feel empty.

4. Are there people who apologize and acknowledge responsibility for their faults?

哪些工作需要员工与很多人接触? Yes, of course. Many people do apologize and take responsibility when they make mistakes, especially in professional settings like workplaces. Such behavior shows maturity and helps to rebuild trust. in fact, admitting faults often makes relationships stronger rather than weaker.


17.

Part 2

Describe the first time you had a conversation with a foreigner in a foreign language

You should say:

  • Who the foreigner was

  • Where and when it happened

  • What you talked about

  • And explain how you felt during and after the conversation

The first time I had a real conversation with a foreigner was with an American tourist I met in Beijing. He was visiting some famous historical sites and seemed very curious about Chinese culture.

It happened about five years ago when I was a high school student . I met him at the Forbidden City, and he asked me for directions because he was a little lost.

At first, I was nervous, but I managed to explain the way to the exit in simple English.

Then we chatted briefly about Chinese food and where he could try authentic Peking duck. He thanked me warmly, and I felt proud that he understood me.

During the conversation, I felt both nervous and excited, because it was my first chance to use English in real life. Afterward, I felt more confident about speaking a foreign language and realized communication is possible even with limited vocabulary.

Part 3

1. Do you think it's difficult to learn English?

Yes,I thinklearning English can be dificult, especially at the beginning, because the grammar rules and pronunciation are quite different from Chinese. However, with enough practice and exposure, it becomes easier over time. In fact, many people find it enjoyable once they can use English to communicate with others.

2. Why do people learn foreign languages?

为什么有些人不喜欢道歉? People learn foreign languages for many reasons. Some do it for practical purposes, like studying abroad or finding better job opportunities. Others learn because they enjoy foreign culture, movies, or music. In general, learning a new language opens doors to communication and broadens people' s horizons.

3. At what age do you think is the best time for people to learn a foreign language?

你们国家的人喜欢道歉吗? I think the best time to learn a foreign language is during childhood, because young children pick up sounds and vocabulary much faster. They are also less afraid of making mistakes, which makes learning more natural. However, adults can still succeed if they stay motivated and practice regularly.

4. What methods should teachers use to make language learning more interesting?

言语比行动更重要吗? Teachers can make language learning more interesting by using interactive activities, such as role-plays or group discussions.They should also bring in real-life materials like songs, movies, or news articles to make lessons more engaging. In addition, incorporating technology, such as apps or online games, can motivate students to practice outside the classroom.


18.

Part 2

Describe a person who shows his/her feelings very openly

You should say:

  • who this person is

  • how you know this person

  • why you think he/she is such a person

  • and explain how you feel about him/her

One person who shows her feelings very openly is my teammate, Claire. I've known her for about three years since we joined the same product team at work, and from day one she seemed to wear her heart on her sleeve.

In meetings, her emotions are easy to read. If an idea excites her, she lights up, leans forward and says, "This is brilliant - let's build on it." If she's unsure, she doesn't sugar-coat it; she admits it and asks clarifying questions. Outside work, she's the same - during a team movie night she even teared up, then laughed at herself and said she was being "sappy," which made everyone relax.

I think she's like this because she values emotional transparency and psychological safety. She journals every evening, which helps her name what she feels, and she sets healthy boundaries: when she's overwhelmed, she'll say, "I need ten minutes to breathe," rather than snapping at anyone.

I genuinely admire her openness because it builds trust and reduces misunderstandings. It also nudges me to be more direct and kind in my own communication. Not everyone is comfortable being so expressive, but with Claire it never feels dramatic - just authentic and constructive.

Part 3

1. Do you think it's good or bad for people to show feelings openly?

有人道歉并承认对自己的错误负责吗? Overall, it' s mostly good, because appropriate openness builds trust and reduces misunderstandings, when people name their feelings, others can respond constructively.

2. Who tend to show their feelings more openly, adults or children?

Generally, children show feelings more openly because they have less impulse control and fewer social filters; they laugh, cry or complain right away.Adults, by contrast, often manage emotions due to social norms and workplace expectations.

3. Regarding showing emotions, are there any differences between women and men?

你认为学英语难吗? On average, yes - mainly because of socialisation. Women are often encouraged to verbalise feelings and seek support, while men are pushed toward restraint or express emotions through actions, humour, or problem-solving.


19.

Part 2

Describe a shopping mall you often visit

You should say:

  • Where it is

  • Who you usually go with

  • What you do there

  • And explain why you like going to this mall so often

A shopping mall I often visit is Harbor Square, which sits next to the riverside park about ten minutes from my apartment by Line 2. It's easy to reach, and the entrance opens straight onto a wide, glass-roofed atrium.

I usually go there with my roommate on Saturday afternoons; we treat it as a mini catch-up. If I'm busy, I'll drop by on my own after work, because it's on my commute and I can pop in without planning.

We tend to grab a coffee, browse the bookstore, and check the electronics floor for new gadgets. Then we split the grocery list at the supermarket and meet in the food court for something quick. If there's time, we might catch a late screening at the cinema or walk on the rooftop garden.

What I like most is the convenience: everything - from returns to repairs - is handled in one place. The mall is bright, clean, and well-signed, so it never feels chaotic even when it's crowded. Plus, their loyalty app gives decent discounts and contactless payment makes the whole visit fast and painless. So it's become my go-to spot for both errands and a little downtime.

Part 3

1. Some people believe building shopping malls isn't a good thing, what do you think?

人们为什么学习外语? lt s both good and bad: great when a well-planned, mixed-use mall sits by public transport, but harmful if it' s car-oriented and squeezes small retailers by raising congestion and rents. So l' m in favour only when it meets green building standards and keeps parts of the public realm open.

2. Why do people enjoy going to malls?

你认为人们学习外语的最佳年龄是什么时候? People enjoy malls because they offer one-stop convenience - shopping, food and services in a safe, climate-controlled space, often close to public transport. Beyond buying things, malls act as social hubs with cinemas, food courts and pop-ups that create experiential retail, so people can meet friends, window-shop, and be entertained without pressure.

3. What do people usually buy in malls?

教师应该用什么方法让语言学习更有趣? People usually buy apparel and footwear, cosmetics/skincare, and everyday essentials like groceries and household goods; they also pick up electronics and accessories, gifts, and kids' items during promotions. For big-ticket purchases - phones, small appliances or homeware - malls are handy because you can compare brands, try products, and get in-store after-sales.

4. What problems might consumers face while shopping?

Consumers often face pricing and availability headaches-misleading “discounts”, hidden fees or shrinkflation, and plain stockouts - plus long queues and patchy service, which can be frustrating. Both channels carry risks: in-store upselling and opaque return policies; online counterfeits/quality issues, delivery delays, payment failures and data-privacy concerns - so clear labelling, transparent returns, and reliable after-sales are crucial.

5. How did people pay in the past, and how do they pay now?

你认为人们公开表达感情是好是坏? In the past, people mostly paid with cash and cheques, and for larger purchases they used bank transfers. Everything was paper-based and slower. Today, contactless cards, mobile wallets/QR codes, and instant bank transfers are common with buy-now-pay-later options and biometric or two-factor checks making payments fast yet secure.

6. What are the downsides of mobile payments?

谁更倾向于公开表达自己的感受,成年人还是孩子? Mobile payments do have downsides: they depend on battery and connectivity - if your phone dies or the network drops, you're stuck - and they raise exposure to scams like phishing, fake QR codes, or account takeovers. There are also privacy and budgeting issues, because "frictionless" checkout can trigger overspending, so I use spending limits, two-factor checks, and keep a backup card.

7. How do young people shop compared to older people?

在表达情感方面,男女之间有什么不同吗? Young people are mobile-first and omnichannel: they discover products via social media/short videos, compare prices in apps, pay with mobile wallets/BNPL, and expect fast delivery with easy returns. Older shoppers, by contrast, prefer in-store for fit-and-feel and trust, use loyalty cards and credit/cash, seek staff advice, and often research online but buy in store.


20.

Part 2

Describe an old thing that has been in your family for a long time

You should say:

  • What it is

  • What it looks like

  • How long it has been in your family

  • And explain why your family has kept it for so long

An old thing that has been in my family for a long time is a small jade pendant that I inherited from my grandmother. I first saw it when I was a child, and she later gave it to me as a keepsake. It's oval and pale-green, slightly translucent with a soft patina from years of wear. If you hold it up to the light, it almost glows. There's a fine carved cloud motif on one side and a tiny plum blossom on the other, and it hangs from a red silk cord. There's also a hairline crack near the edge, which somehow makes it feel even more personal.

It has been in my family for nearly seventy years. My great -grandfather gave it to my grandmother in the 1950s when she started college; later it was passed to my mother after her wedding, and to me on my eighteenth birthday. We tend to wear it at family milestones, like graduations or New Year gatherings.

What makes it special is not the price but the craftsmanship and stories attached to it. My grandmother wore it to her first job interview and called it her "good-luck piece." For me, it symbolizes resilience and continuity - a reminder to stay calm and work hard, whatever happens. I plan to keep it safe and pass it on to the next generation.

Part 3

1. What kinds of old things do people keep?

People tend to keep family heirlooms (jewellery, watches, medals), memorabilia (old photos, letters, yearbooks), vintage media (books, vinyl, film cameras) and well-made functional items like solid-wood furniture, porcelain or teaware. Some also keep collections (stamps, coins) and traditional clothing or instruments, because they carry stories, craftsmanship, or investment value that new things can't replace.

2. Why do people keep old things?

有些人认为建造购物中心不是一件好事,你怎么看? People keep old things because they carry memory and identity - heirlooms and memorabilia preserve family stories, a sense of continuity, and even cultural belonging. They also do it for practical and economic reasons: older items often have better craftsmanship, are repairable, may retain or gain value, and reusing them is more sustainable than buying new.

3. Do young people like old things?

为什么人们喜欢去商场? Many young people do like old things - vintage clothes, vinyl, film cameras or second-hand furniture - because they feel unique and authentic, support sustainability through thrifting, and sometimes hold value thanks to better craftsmanship and repairability. That said, preferences are split: others prioritise the convenience, warranty and latest features of new products, so interest is strongest among creative/eco-minded groups or when items can be easily styled and used.

4. What are differences of keeping things between young people and old people?

人们在商场里通常买什么? Older people tend to keep items for sentimental value and durability - heirlooms, paper photos, well-made tools - often repairing rather than replacing. Younger people, by contrast, keep fewer physical things but "digitally hoard" photos/files, rotate clothes via resale platforms, and keep functional gadgets, with space constraints and a minimalist/sustainable mindset pushing them to declutter more often.

5. Why do people go to visit museums?

消费者在购物时可能会遇到什么问题? People visit museums to learn from curated collections and see artifacts up close; interactive exhibits, audio guides, and rotating exhibitions make history, science and art feel tangible and relevant. They also go for inspiration and community - to see iconic works, attend talks or family workshops, and connect with heritage and identity, which broadens perspectives.


21.

Part 2

Describe a great friend who is important to you

You should say:

  • Who he/she is

  • How/where you got to know about him/her

  • How long you have known each other

  • And explain why he/she is important to you

A great friend who is very important to me is Leo, my university teammate from the debate society. He's the kind of person who is calm under pressure and honest without being harsh.

We first met at freshers' week and bonded during a late-night practice round before a tournament. I was struggling with my rebuttals, and he stayed behind to coach me, breaking down arguments into simple steps and showing me how to structure my notes.

We've known each other for about eight years now. Even after graduation, we kept in touch through weekly calls; whenever one of us changes jobs or cities, we visit, and he's the person I turn to when I need clear, level-headed advice.

What I value most is his mix of empathy and accountability. When I feel stuck, he listens first, then gives candid, actionable feedback and helps me set deadlines - he even ran mock interviews with me the night before a big assessment. Thanks to him, I've grown more confident, more organised, and more patient with myself and others.

Part 3

1. What are advantages of making friends at different life stages?

人们过去是如何付款的,现在又是如何付款? Making friends at different life stages expands your perspective and social capital: older friends offer mentorship and hard-won wisdom, peers give solidarity, and younger friends keep you curious and current. This diversity buffers life transitions- study, jobs, parenting or retirement - and creates bridging ties for opportunities and collaboration, so you don't get stuck in an echo chamber.

2. Do you think it is better for children to have a few close friends or casual friends?

移动支付的缺点是什么? I'd lean toward a few close friends as a child's core, because stable, trusting relationships build emotional security, conflict-resolution skills and prosocial behaviour. That said, a small number of casual friends is healthy for social exposure and flexibility - so the ideal is a tight inner circle with a looser outer circle.

3. Do you think a child's relationship with friends can be replaced by that with other people, like parents or other family members?

与老年人相比,年轻人如何购物? Not really. Parents give attachment, guidance and a secure base, but friendships are equal-status and teach perspective-taking, boundary-setting and conflict negotiation - skills a child can't fully practise with adults. Ideally they complement each other: a strong family "safety net" plus a small circle of close friends builds autonomy, resilience and a sense of belonging beyond home.

4. Is it possible that employees make friends with their boss? How do children make friends?

你会想住在其他环境因素完全不同的地点吗? Yes - friendship is possible as long as both sides keep professional boundaries and manage the power dynamics. It works best in flat teams with transparent feedback; otherwise it risks favouritism or conflicts of interest. Mostly through proximity and shared play - classmates, neighbours, clubs - where repeated games build trust and belonging. Simple prosocial moves like sharing, turn-taking, and copying each other's interests quickly turn into friendships.


22.

Part 2

Describe a creative person whose work you admire (e.g. artists or musician)

()

You should say:

  • Who this person is

  • How you knew him/her

  • What creative work he/she does

  • And explain why you admire him/her

A creative person whose work I truly admire is Yayoi Kusama, the Japanese contemporary artist best known for her polka dots and immersive "infinity" rooms. Her practice cuts across painting, sculpture, installation and performance.

I first discovered her in a short documentary at university, and later I visited a touring exhibition in my city. Walking into a mirrored room filled with glowing dots felt like stepping into a different universe; it was playful yet strangely contemplative.

Kusama builds site-specific installations that transform ordinary spaces with repetition, symmetry, and high-saturation palettes - pumpkins, dots and mirrored panels that seem to extend forever. She also publishes drawings and soft sculptures that blur the line between fine art and design, inviting viewers to participate rather than just observe.

I admire her because she turns personal struggles into radically accessible art, proving that creativity can be both serious and joyful. Her discipline and consistency inspire me to take measured risks in my own projects, and her audience-first approach reminds me that great work can comfort, connect, and challenge at the same time.

Part 3

1. Should children learn painting or drawing?

Yes - children should learn painting or drawing because it develops fine-motor control, visual-spatial reasoning, creativity and gives them a safe outlet to express emotions and tell stories. Beyond the arts, sketching supports science and math (observation, diagramming, basic geometry) and builds focus and perseverance - the key is regular, low-pressure practice with constructive feedback, not “innate talent.”

2. What are advantages of learning painting or singing for children?

人们保存什么样的旧东西? Painting and singing help in complementary ways: painting builds fine-motor control, visual-spatial reasoning and creativity, while singing strengthens listening, memory, breath control and language/phonological awareness - and both offer a safe outlet for emotions. Beyond the arts, they foster focus and perseverance, social skills through ensembles or group projects, and confidence from exhibitions or performances - benefits that transfer to broader learning and well-being.

3. Do you think people should encourage children to learn musical instruments?

为什么人们保留旧东西? Yes - people should encourage it provided it's child-led and low-pressure: learning an instrument strengthens auditory processing, fine-motor control, rhythm, and executive functions (attention/working memory), builds discipline and perseverance, and ensembles develop teamwork and communication. To keep it sustainable, give kids choice and access (trial lessons, rent/borrow), use short, playful practice with clear but flexible goals , and focus on intrinsic motivation rather than competition.


23.

Part 2

Describe a time when the electricity suddenly went off at where you live

You should say:

  • When it happened

  • How long it lasted

  • What you did during that time

  • And explain how you felt about it

I remember one evening last summer when the electricity suddenly went off in my apartment. It was around 8 p.m., and I was in the middle of watching a TV show when everything went completely dark.

The blackout lasted for about two hours. At first, I thought it was just my apartment, but then I realized the whole neighborhood had no power, including the streetlights outside.

During that time, I lit some candles and used my phone as a flashlight. Since there was nothing else to do, I sat by the window, enjoyed the breeze, and even chatted with my neighbors in the corridor. It felt like an unexpected break from technology.

Although it was inconvenient, I actually felt quite relaxed. Without the usual distractions, I had time to slow down and appreciate the quiet atmosphere. Looking back, it was a small reminder that life without electricity can still be peaceful in its own way.

Part 3

1. Does the place where you live often experience power cuts?

年轻人喜欢旧东西吗? No, in my city power cuts are quite rare nowadays because the electricity supply is very stable. In fact, most outages only happen during extreme weather, like heavy storms or heatwaves. Compared with the past, the infrastructure has improved a lot, so people hardly worry about blackouts anymore.

2. Do power outages happen frequently in your city?

年轻人和老年人在保管东西方面有什么不同? No, power outages don't happen frequently in my city. The electricity system is quite reliable, and blackouts only occur during extreme weather, like typhoons or heavy storms. In general, the local government has invested a lot in infrastructure, so the supply is stable and people rarely experience interruptions.

3. Is electricity expensive in the place where you live?

人们为什么去参观博物馆? I wouldn't say electricity is very expensive in my city, but the price has gone up a little in recent years. It's still affordable for most households, although in the summer, when people use air conditioners a lot, the bills can be quite high. Overall, I think the cost is reasonable compared with people's income.

4. Do you think people will prefer electric bicycles or ordinary bicycles in the future?

I think electric bicycles will become more popular in the future because they are faster and more convenient, especially for commuting in big cities. Ordinary bicycles, however, will still have their place, since they are cheaper and give people more exercise. Overall, I believe e-bikes will dominate urban transport, while traditional bikes will be preferred for leisure and fitness.


24.

Part 2

Describe a time when you broke something by accident

You should say:

  • What it is

  • How you broke it

  • How you felt at that time

  • And explain what you did after you broke it

One time I accidentally broke my mother's favorite vase. It was a tall, blue-and-white ceramic vase that she had placed in the living room as decoration.

I broke it while I was cleaning the table. I moved a chair too quickly, and it accidentally hit the vase, knocking it onto the floor. The vase shattered into pieces instantly.

At that moment, I felt really shocked and guilty, because I knew how much my mother valued it. I was also nervous about her reaction, since it had been in our home for many years.

Afterwards, I carefully collected the pieces and admitted what had happened. My mother was upset, but she forgave me when she saw how sorry I was. Looking back, it taught me to be more careful and responsible when handling things at home.

Part 3

1. What types of goods are typically produced in modern factories?

在不同的人生阶段交朋友有什么好处? In modern factories, a wide range of goods are produced. For example, electronics like smartphones and laptops are very common, as well as cars and household appliances. Many factories also produce everyday items such as clothes, packaged food, and even medicines. These goods are usually made on a large scale to meet global demand.

2. Do factories usually rely on machines or manual labor for production?

你认为孩子们最好有几个亲密的朋友还是随便的朋友? Nowadays, most factories rely heavily on machines because automation makes production faster, cheaper, and more consistent. However, manual labor is still important in areas that require delicate skills, quality control, or creativity, such as handicrafts or luxury goods. So I'd say machines dominate mass production, while human workers add value in specialized fields.

3. Which do you think is better for production: using machines or making things by hand? Why?

你的家乡在哪里? 是大城市还是小地方? I think using machines is generally better for production because they make the process faster, cheaper, and more consistent. But handmade products still have their value, especially when it comes to craftsmanship, uniqueness, and cultural meaning. Overall, machines are better for mass production, while handmade items are better for personal or artistic purposes.


25.

Part 2

Describe an outdoor place that you can get to the nature

You should say:

  • Where it was

  • When you went there

  • Why you went there and did the activity

  • And explain how you felt about it

One outdoor place where I could really connect with nature is West Lake in Hangzhou. It's a famous scenic spot in China, surrounded by mountains, gardens, and temples.

I went there last spring with some of my close friends. The weather was warm and sunny, so it was perfect for walking around the lake and taking a boat ride. We also rented bicycles and cycled along the shore, which was really relaxing.

The main reason I went there was to take a break from my busy study schedule and get some fresh air. Spending time in nature helped me forget about stress and gave me more energy afterwards.

Overall, I felt calm and refreshed after that trip. It reminded me how important it is to escape the city once in a while and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Part 3

1. What do you think could children do outdoor?

你认为孩子与朋友的关系可以被与其他人的关系所取代吗,比如父母或其他家庭成员? I think children could do simple outdoor activities like running, cycling, and playing ball games, which help them stay healthy. They can also take part in group activities such as hide-and-seek or team sports, which improve their social skills. Besides, exploring nature, like going on short hikes or observing plants, can make them more curious and creative.

2. Do you think people in city can get close to nature?

员工有可能和老板交朋友吗? 孩子们是如何交朋友的? Yes, I think people in cities can still get close to nature, but it might be a bit limited. Many cities have parks, riversides, or botanical gardens where people can enjoy greenery and fresh air. However, it's not the same as being in the countryside or mountains, so the experience is usually less immersive.

3. Do you think vegetarians are protecting nature?

Yes, to some extent vegetarians are protecting nature. By eating less meat, they reduce the demand for livestock farming, which produces a lot of greenhouse gases and uses huge amounts of land and water. Of course, vegetarianism alone can't solve all environmental problems, but it definitely helps make our lifestyle more sustainable.

4. Does your country care about the nature?

孩子们应该学画画吗?

Yes, I believe my country is paying more attention to protecting nature in recent years. For example, the government has invested in renewable energy, created more urban green spaces, and introduced stricter laws against pollution. Of course, there are still challenges , but overall, people's awareness of environmental protection is much stronger than before.


26.

Part 2

Describe something important to your family

You should say:

  • What it is

  • What it looks like

  • How long it has been in your family

  • And explain why it is important to your family

One important thing in my family is an old photo album. It's a large, leather-bound book with slightly yellowed pages, and it contains pictures of my grandparents, my parents, and even me as a child.

This album has been in my family for more than thirty years. My parents started collecting photos when they got married, and since then, every important event like birthdays, graduations, and weddings, has been recorded in it.

For me, the most touching part is seeing pictures of my grandparents when they were young, because I never met them in real life. The album makes me feel more connected to my family history and gives me a sense of belonging.

Overall, this album is important because it preserves our memories and reminds us of the values of love and togetherness. Whenever we look at it, it brings the whole family closer.

Part 3

1. Do young people like old things?

学习绘画或唱歌对孩子有什么好处? I think it really depends. Some young people enjoy old things like vintage clothes or traditional furniture because they feel unique and meaningful. But many prefer modern items, since they are usually more convenient and fashionable. So, it often comes down to personal taste and lifestyle.

2. What do you think are the differences between the things that young people and elder people prefer?

你认为人们应该鼓励孩子们学习乐器吗? I think young people usually prefer modern and trendy things, like the latest smartphones, fashionable clothes, or fast entertainment. Older people, on the other hand, often value practicality and durability, such as comfortable furniture or traditional food. These differences mainly come from their lifestyles and priorities at different stages of life.

3. Why do people like to go to museums?

People like to go to museums because they can learn about history, culture, and art in a direct way. Museums also provide a unique experience, since you can see real objects rather than just pictures in books or online. Besides, many people enjoy the quiet atmosphere, which makes it a good place for reflection and even family activities.


27.

Part 2

Describe a famous sportsperson you admire

You should say:

  • Who this person is

  • What you know about him/her

  • What achievement he/she has done

  • And explain why you admire him/her

One famous sportsperson I really admire is Li Na, the retired Chinese tennis player. I first got to know her when she won the French Open in 2011, which was a historic moment because she became the first Asian player to win a Grand Slam singles title.

I know that before her breakthrough, she had faced many challenges , such as injuries and pressure from the media. But she showed great determination and a strong personality, which made her stand out from other athletes.

Apart from winning the French Open, she also won the Australian Open in 2014. These victories not only raised her profile internationally, but also inspired millions of young athletes in China to pursue tennis.

I admire her not just for her achievements, but also for her courage to speak her mind and challenge traditions. She proved that with confidence and persistence, people from Asia could also succeed on the world stage.

Part 3

1. What sports do Chinese usually do? Why?

你在那里生活了多久? I think the most common sports among Chinese people are badminton, table tennis, and basketball. Badminton and ping-pong are popular because they don't require much space and are affordable, so almost anyone can play. Basketball is also huge, especially among young people, partly because of the influence of the NBA and famous players like Yao Ming.

2. Should students have physical education and do sports at school ?

你住的地方经常停电吗? Yes, I think physical education is essential for students . Doing sports at school not only improves their health but also teaches teamwork and discipline. Besides, it helps them release stress from academic work, which is really important for their overall development.

3. Some schools don't set sports courses, why?

你们城市经常停电吗? I think the main reason is that some schools put too much emphasis on academic subjects, so sports are seen as less important. Another reason could be limited resources, like not having enough space or qualified PE teachers. In some cases, schools just want students to spend more time preparing for exams.

4. What kind of sports are unsuitable for children? Why?

你最喜欢家乡的什么? I think high-risk sports like boxing, wrestling, or extreme activities such as rock climbing are unsuitable for children. The main reason is that their bodies are still developing, so serious injuries could affect their growth. Also, these sports often require strong self-control and professional training, which young kids usually don't have.


28.

Part 2

Describe a time when you wait to buy a special thing

You should say:

  • When it was

  • What the item was

  • Why you wait for it

  • And explain how you feel about it

I'd like to talk about the time when I waited to buy a new smartphone, the iPhone

  1. It was around two years ago, just after it was released, but the demand was so high that I couldn't get it immediately.

At that time, I was still using my old phone, which had a cracked screen and a very weak battery. I really wanted to upgrade, but I had to wait for almost a month because the stores were always out of stock.

I decided to wait because I believed the new model had much better features, like a longer battery life and an improved camera. Also, I wanted to buy it from an official store to make sure it was genuine and came with a warranty.

When I finally got the phone, I felt really satisfied, and the waiting made it feel even more valuable. Looking back, it also taught me to be patient and appreciate things more when they don't come too easily.

Part 3

1. Do you think it is important to be a patient person?

你住的地方电费贵吗? Yes, I think patience is really important in today's world. It helps people handle stress better, whether it's at work, in relationships, or even when learning new skills. Without patience, people may give up too easily or make poor decisions. So being patient can actually lead to greater success and healthier lifestyles.

2. When do people often need to wait?

你认为未来人们会更喜欢电动自行车还是普通自行车? People often need to wait in daily situations like seeing a doctor, taking public transport, or queuing in banks and restaurants. Another common case is waiting online, for example when tickets or new products are released. In general, people have to wait whenever demand is higher than supply.

3. Why do some people dislike to wait?

I think many people dislike waiting because they feel it wastes their time. In modern society, everyone is used to efficiency and instant results, so even short delays can be frustrating. Some also get anxious when they wait, especially if they are in a hurry or have other tasks to finish.


29.

Part 2

Describe something interesting you discovered/found on social media

描述你在社交媒体上发现/发现的有趣的东西

You should say:

  • What it was

  • Where you saw it

  • How you felt about it

  • And explain why you found it interesting

One interesting thing I discovered on social media was a short video about a new AI translation app. I came across it while scrolling through my WeChat feed a few months ago, and it immediately caught my attention because it looked really futuristic.

In the video, the app could translate spoken English into Chinese almost instantly, and even display subtitles on the screen. I was amazed because the demonstration looked so smooth, as if two people who spoke different languages could communicate without any barrier.

I felt really excited because it reminded me of those futuristic gadgets in science fiction movies. It made me imagine how much easier travelling abroad or studying in another country would be if everyone had access to such technology.

Overall, I found it interesting not only because of the advanced technology, but also because it showed how social media can introduce us to innovations that may soon change our daily lives.

Part 3

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of social media?

现代工厂通常生产哪些类型的商品? I'd say the biggest advantage of social media is that it helps people stay connected and share information instantly. It can also be a powerful tool for learning and promoting new ideas. However, the downside is that it sometimes spreads fake news and can be addictive, which affects people's productivity and even their mental health.

2. Who do you think shouldn't use social media?

工厂通常依靠机器还是体力劳动进行生产? I think very young children probably shouldn't use social media, because they are too vulnerable to harmful content and may not know how to protect their privacy. Another group would be people who are easily addicted, since spending too much time online can affect their studies or work. For them, limiting or avoiding social media might be healthier.

3. How often do you use social media?

你认为哪一种更适合生产:使用机器还是手工制作? 为什么? I use social media almost every day, mainly to keep in touch with friends and check the news. However, I try not to spend too much time on it, maybe around half an hour to an hour a day. I think it's useful, but if I used it constantly, it would definitely be a waste of time.

4. Do you think you/your friends spend too much time on social media?

你认为你/你的朋友在社交媒体上花了太多时间吗? Yes, I think many of my friends do spend too much time on social media. Sometimes they scroll for hours without realizing it, which makes them less productive. Personally, I try to control myself, but even I occasionally get distracted, especially when I watch short videos.


30.

Part 2

Describe an occasion where an electrical appliance stopped working

You should say:

  • What the appliance was

  • When and where it happened

  • What you were doing at the time

  • And explain how you dealt with the problem

One occasion I remember clearly was when my laptop suddenly stopped working. This happened about two years ago, in the middle of my university library, when I was preparing for an important presentation.

At that time, I was typing my slides when the screen went black without any warning. I tried pressing the power button again, but nothing happened. It was really frustrating because I had spent the whole morning polishing my slides, and I hadn't saved the latest version.

Since I didn't want to panic, I asked the library technician for help. He suggested plugging the laptop into another socket to check if it was a power issue. To my relief, it turned out that the adapter was broken, not the laptop itself. After I borrowed a spare charger from a classmate, the laptop worked perfectly again.

Looking back, although it was a stressful experience, it also taught me an important lesson: always back up my work and stay calm when something goes wrong. Now I save my files to the cloud regularly, just in case a similar situation happens again.

Part 3

1. Can electric vehicles replace bicycles?

I don't think electric vehicles can fully replace bicycles. Bikes are cheaper, healthier, and more convenient for short trips, while electric cars are better for long distances. So, I'd say they complement each other rather than one replacing the other.

2. When will equipment break normally? Why?

你不喜欢那里的什么? Well, equipment usually breaks after being used for a long time, especially if it's not maintained properly. For example, machines often wear out because of constant friction or poor quality parts. So in most cases, it's a mix of age, heavy use, and lack of care that causes equipment to stop working.

3. What are the reasons that something gets broken?

你认为孩子们可以在户外做什么? I think the main reasons are poor quality, overuse, and lack of proper maintenance. For instance, cheap products often break easily because the materials aren't durable. Also, even good equipment will wear out if people use it too heavily or never look after it.

4. Do people buy a new one when something is broken?

你认为城市里的人能亲近大自然吗? It really depends on the item. If something is cheap, like a phone charger or a kettle, people usually just buy a new one because repairing it costs more time and money. But if it's expensive, such as a smartphone or a washing machine, they might try to fix it first before deciding to replace it.


1. Flowers

1. Why do people like to give flowers as gifts?

你认为素食主义者是在保护自然吗? I guess different people may have different reasons. Obviously some people do like flowers, whereas others may find it convenient to buy a bunch of flowers to express their emotions.

2. Will you take photos of flowers?

你们国家关心自然吗? Mostly I wil, especially when I come across some flowers that I haven't seen beforeI think taking photos of them is a pretty nice way to capture their beauty and elegance3.Are there many flowers near your home? ?

4. Is there anyone around you who likes flowers very much?

From my observation, yes there are indeed various forms offlowers in the vicinity of my apartment. However, I don't basically know their difference that much. I am not a flower man? Not that I can recall. Off the top of my head I cannot come up with anyone around me who likes flowers. But I do know many flower youtubers on the social mediasThey are constantly uploading different videos related to flowers5.Do people in your country often send flowers to others? ? Some people would, since it is one of the best ways to express their emotions. They usually get them wrapped up in different gift boxes. But I guess less and less people are doing this nowadays because of the declining popularity of flowers6.Do you know how to plant flowers? ? Absolutely not. I am a layperson on flowers. I mean, I don't know anything regarding the plantation of flowers, like different growing conditions for different types. It is not a piece of cake to pick up the relevant skills to do this.


2. Remember

1. Can you remember anything when you were a child?

Yes absolutely. I still remember that back when I was still a primary school student , we had a football match, which was evenly-matched. I made a goal by the very end of it. If my memory serves me, everyone was yelling and shouting at that very moment. It is a very warm memory for me.

2. How to remember something important?

年轻人喜欢旧东西吗? I think it depends. Some people are leaning towards writing them down, whereas others prefer to do nothing but to be consciously aware of it. I think it is up to the individual preference.

3. Will you remember something important in future studies and work?

你认为年轻人和老年人喜欢的东西有什么不同? I guess so. Let's say, if I work as a teacher in the future, I definitely need to remember the importance of patience. You know, patience is a very important virtue.

4. Do you like to remember things?

为什么人们喜欢去博物馆? I do like to consciously remember some crucial things, such as the appointment with my supervisors. But when it comes to trivial things that need to be done routinely, I would rather do nothing about them.

5. Do you have difficulties in memorizing?

In most cases, I would say no. I have a sharp mind and I can easily memorize some complex principles, formulas and etc. But in some cases, if I feel drowsy and dizzy, I might find it hard to keep anything in mind.

6. Do people's memory better now or in childhood?

中国人通常做什么运动? 为什么? It's hard to say. Some people's memorization ability has been constantly declining since their childhood, while others might find it easier and easier to remember everything. I think the jury is still out on this question.


3. Stay Up Late

1. Do you often stay up late?

学生应该在学校接受体育教育和运动吗? Actually yes, it's really weird cause I usually go to bed at around 11pm, but I'll be on my phone for another 2-3 hours, you know, those short videos are really addictive.

2. Did you often stay up late when you were a kid?

为什么有些学校不开设体育课程? Absolutely not, cause when I was a kid, I had morning classes from Monday to Friday, and my parents required me to go to sleep at around 9pm and get up at 7, so yeah, I had a tough routine during my childhood.

3. What do you do when you stay up late?

什么样的运动不适合孩子? 为什么? Normally, I just check those short videos on Tik Tok, but when it comes to deadlines or when my schedule is way behind, I might work for a few hours, but I hate working overtime, so I would reduce the chances of doing so.

4. What does it feel like the next morning if you stay up late?

Not so well, it feels so exhausting and tiring the next day, you know, just, I couldn't see everything clearly and it's hard for me to focus.


4. Patient

1. Do you think you are a patient person?

你认为做一个有耐心的人重要吗?

Yes, I believe I'm a patient person, especially as a teacher . In my profession, patience is not just a virtue—it's a necessity. I've had students who needed weeks or even months to fully grasp a mathematical concept, and I never gave up on them. For example, I worked with one student who scored 50 points, and it took significant time and patience to help her improve to 94 points. I believe patience is about trusting the process and believing in others' potential.

2. Do you think patience is important for work and study?

人们通常什么时候需要等待?

Absolutely essential. In teaching , patience is crucial because every student learns at their own pace. Some students understand concepts immediately, while others need more time and different approaches. Without patience, I might give up on struggling students too early. In my own studies, like preparing for my master 's application, patience helps me stay focused on long-term goals even when progress feels slow. Patience is what separates those who succeed from those who quit prematurely.

3. What do you feel impatient about when doing?

为什么有些人不喜欢等待?

I admit I sometimes feel impatient when dealing with administrative bureaucracy or paperwork that doesn't directly benefit my students . As a teacher , I'm passionate about teaching and helping students learn, so when I have to spend excessive time on non- teaching tasks, I can get a bit restless. I've learned to handle this better by reminding myself that even these tasks contribute to the bigger picture of education , but it's definitely something that tests my patience.

4. If you need to do something for a long time, how do you feel?

It depends on whether I see the value and purpose in it. For example, helping a struggling student over an entire semester requires patience and persistence, but I never feel tired of it because I can see the positive impact. However, if I'm doing something without clear purpose or benefit, I might feel frustrated. I think having a clear goal and seeing progress, no matter how small, makes long-term efforts much more manageable and rewarding.

5. Which stage do you think you are more patient, in your childhood or now?

社交媒体的优点和缺点是什么?

Definitely now. When I was a child, I wanted instant results—I expected to understand things immediately and got frustrated easily. But growing up, especially through my own experience of struggling with mathematics in middle school and later becoming a teacher , I've learned that meaningful progress takes time. Now, I understand that patience is an active process of trusting the journey, not just passively waiting. Teaching has taught me that patience is one of the most powerful tools for helping others grow.


5. Thanks

1. When will you say thanks to others?

你认为谁不应该使用社交媒体? I think I will say thanks to others on almost all occasions, like when I need to express my gratitude or I simply want to express my friendliness. I think saying thanks is a symbolic buzz word being used widely nowadays.

2. Do Chinese people often say thanks?

你多久使用一次社交媒体? Definitely. As I said, everyone does. To some extent, it has already become an integral part of the modern society.

3. Have you ever sent messages to express gratitude?

你认为你/你的朋友在社交媒体上花了太多时间吗? Let me think about it. Yeah, donkey's years ago, I dropped my supervisor a message to express my thanks for him after the graduation ceremony. What surprised me was that he replied a message back to me immediately to wish me a good luck in the future. I was over the moon at that time.

4. How do you feel when you are thanked?

I will feel I am being honored by other people. I always feel a sense of pride whenever someone gives me a thumb's up. I think it is a human nature, right?

5. Do you often say thanks?

电动汽车能取代自行车吗? Definitely. As I said, everyone does, including me. To some extent, it has already become an integral part of the modern society.


6. Machine

1. Which is the most commonly used machine in your home?

设备什么时候会正常损坏? 为什么? That must be the vacuum cleaner, which can be used to clean up the whole room more effectively than simply mopping the floor manually. It is a must for me.

2. How often do you use it?

东西坏了的原因是什么? Almost on a daily basis. After I wake up, I will do it immediately to ensure the tidiness of my house. I like to see everything in order.

3. Do you think washing machines and sweeping machines are important?

当东西坏了,人们会买新的吗?

Absolutely. We could resort to them to do most of things that could only be done manually in the past. But if we overly rely on them, we might become lazy bones.

4. Do you read the instructions before using a machine?

Not necessarily. If a machine is not user-friendly, then reading instructions is a necessity. Otherwise you might simply fiddle around with it randomly. But if everything is handy, then I will use it straightaway.

5. Who will you turn to for repair if the machine breaks down?

为什么人们喜欢把花当做礼物?

I might simply search through some social media websites, with the purpose of finding something useful so that I could self repair it. But if solving the problem is beyond my capacity, then I must resort to the technician to come to help me.


7. Making a List

1. Do you like to make a list?

你会给花拍照片吗?

Absolutely. I have grown into the habit of making a to-do list for ages. You know, I am a well-organised person and I like to place everything in order.

2. Do you use paper or your cellphone to make the lists?

你身边有没有人很喜欢花

I think it depends. If my phone is working, then I will definitely use it since it is more efficient. There are different apps that enable people to make the lists conveniently. Only when my phone is dying will I consider using the paper to do it.

3. What are the benefits of making the list? Do you think it is useful to make lists for study or work?

你知道家乡的历史吗?

As I said, it can make us become well-organised. By way of listing different things according to their different categories, people can arrange their life more easily.

4. Will you make the list for studying/shopping/…?

() ?

Absolutely. Making a list for things is a must for me. Without doing it beforehand, I might be fully unprepared for the things.

5. Why do some people not like to make plans?

I guess they simply like to do everything on the spur of the moment. You know, some people like to make the last-minute decision rather than carefully make some plans for it. This is especially true for those freelance workers.


8. Free Time

1. What do you always do in your free time?

你能记住你小时候的什么事情?

1. What do you always do in your free time?

怎么记住重要的事情?

As a teacher , my free time is quite limited, but I make the most of it! During weekdays, after school hours, I usually spend time preparing lessons, grading assignments, or researching new teaching methods. But on weekends, I enjoy reading educational articles and books to improve my teaching skills. I also spend quality time with my family and friends, which helps me recharge. Recently, I've been dedicating quite a bit of free time to preparing my master 's application for EdUHK , which I'm very excited about.

2. Do you have more free time than before?

在未来的学习和工作中,你会记住一些重要的事情吗?

Actually, I have less free time now compared to when I was a student , but I don't mind it at all. Teaching is a demanding profession that requires extensive preparation and continuous learning . However, I find my work deeply fulfilling, so even when I're spending my "free time" on teaching -related activities, it doesn't feel like a burden. In fact, preparing lessons, researching new educational methods, or helping students outside of class time gives me a sense of purpose and satisfaction.

3. Which day do you have more free time on, Saturday or Sunday?

你喜欢记东西吗?

Sunday tends to be more relaxed for me. On Saturdays, I often use the time to catch up on lesson planning for the upcoming week, grade assignments, or participate in professional development activities. Sundays, however, are usually my day to rest and recharge—I might spend time with family, read for pleasure, or sometimes continue working on my master 's application materials. That said, as a teacher , I'm always thinking about my students and how to help them learn better, so even during downtime, educational ideas often come to me!

Loads of things, I think. I might simply take a stroll around our local park, which is

4. Would you like to have more free time in the future?

你记东西困难吗?

Absolutely yes. I hope I could travel abroad in the future to experience different types of cultures. I guess everyone would be delighted to have more free time, right?

5. Do children in your country have a lot of free time when they are young?

人们现在记忆力更好还是小时候?

Not so much any more. It would be very rare nowadays to see any children spending some quality free time. Instead, their free time has been largely sacrificed for some educational activities, such as English learning , painting, drawing, you name it. I am so terribly sorry for them, to be honest with you.


9. Take Photos

1. Do you often take photos?

Not as often as I would like to. I hope I could use my phone to capture different amazing moments. But the fact is that, I am not good at photography. I hope someone could take me to do it more often in the future.

2. Will you print photos?

你经常熬夜吗?

I don't think I will. I know we used to like to do it, especially in my grandparents' generations. But we don't do that much anymore. I think I might store them electronically on my phone.

3. Do you want to be a professional photographer?

你还是孩子的时候经常熬夜吗?

It's always on my bucket list. I've been doing many things to strive for this goal , such as attending some online courses and watching some useful videos. But obviously it is not a piece of cake to attain it because it requires much expertise.

4. Do you like taking photos?

你熬夜的时候会做些什么?

I used to like it, but not so much anymore. Back in my childhood, taking photos was my specialty, but it's been ages since I took my last photo. I guess that's because I don't like to edit the photos after taking them, though this has become more of a trend nowadays.

5. Have you taken photos with your family?

如果你熬夜了第二天早上会有什么感觉?

Absolutely yes. We took a photo back in the last spring festival. If my memory serves me, we were sitting together initially, and then my cousin Frank asked us to wear a bright smile. Finally, he captured a very harmonious family moment. Everyone was over the moon at that time.


10. Mobile Phone

1. How often do you use mobile phone?

Almost on a daily basis. I am always on my phone, scrolling through different social media websites. I cannot live without it.

2. What do you do using your phone?

你认为自己是个有耐心的人吗?

As I said, mostly keeping my eye on the social media websites, such as Bilibili and WeChat. Also, I might be on a call with my friends, but not as much as I used to.

3. Do you often break or lose your mobile phone?

你认为耐心在工作和学习中重要吗?

Not that I can recall. I am a cautious person and I've taken some protective measures to ensure the safety of my phone, such as the tracking service. You know, phone is important to me because it contains much confidential information.

4. Have you received a mobile phone as a gift?

你做什么事情会感觉到没有耐心?

Yes. Donkey's years ago, I got a brand-new phone from my cousin Frank on my 10th birthday. I remember that he went to the shopping mall to buy it a day before that and then he carefully got it wrapped up in a gift box. The moment when I opened the gift box and found there was a new phone inside, I was over the moon.


11. Cooking

1. How often do you cook for others?

如果你需要长时间做一件事,你会怎样?

Well, I actually cook for my family quite regularly - about five times a week to be precise. I prepare lunchboxes for everyone during weekdays since we should go to work/study, and it's more economical and healthier than eating out.

2. Are you willing to cook for a group of people?

你认为自己小时候更有耐心还是现在?

Absolutely! It's really satisfying showcasing my culinary skills and seeing people enjoy my dishes. My friends often compliment my cooking, which makes the effort worthwhile. It's a great way to bond with people too.

3. Would you like to learn the skill of cooking?

Definitely. In fact, I would watch some videos teaching you how to cook some foreign cuisine, like the spaghetti and sushi. I would follow the baby steps to learn some very useful techniques. And I always impress my friends with my culinary arts.

4. Do you think chef is a good job?

什么时候你会对其他人说谢谢?

Well it really depends on how you look at it. From a societal perspective, being a chef is undoubtedly valuable as they create delicious meals and make social gatherings more enjoyable. However, from a career standpoint, I'm less convinced - the profession demands years of training, offers relatively modest pay compared to the workload, and often involves long, grueling hours in high-pressure environments.


12. Housework

1. Do your family members train your skill or habits to do housework?

中国人经常说谢谢吗?

Definitely. Ever since I was a little child, my mom has been teaching me how to mop the floors and wash the dishes. She thinks such life skills are important for anyone, including me.

2. Will you often tidy your room?

你给其他人发信息表达过感谢吗?

Not as much as my mother expects. You know, she hopes that I could clean up my room on a daily basis, but I will only do it when it is messy already. I think I am a lazy bone.

3. What are the differences between housework now and in the past?

你被感谢时感觉如何?

Everything has been simplified. We've got vacuum cleaners and other automated cleaning machines nowadays, whereas in the past everything had to be done manually. I think our life has been pretty much easier.

4. Do you often organize a thorough cleaning?

你经常说谢谢吗?

Not that often, as far as I recall. The recent thorough cleaning I can think of off the top of my head happened almost 1 year ago. After my naughty brother Frank knocked things over, my living room was in a terrible mess. Then I called the cleaning company to come over to help me to clean it thoroughly, which took more than 3 hours to put everything back to normal. I was extremely knackered by the end of the day.


13. Technology

1. Have you ever used any technology?

() ?

1. Have you ever used any technology?

() ?

Yes, absolutely! As a teacher , I use various technologies daily. Of course, I use my smartphone for communication and scheduling, but what I find most interesting is educational technology in my classroom. I've used interactive whiteboards, mathematics software, and even encouraged my students to create "key point micro-explanation" videos to share with the class. I'm also preparing to learn more about AI in Education and Mathematical Principles of Machine Learning during my master 's studies at EdUHK .

2. How often do you use it?

Technology is integral to my teaching practice—I use it every day. In the classroom, I use digital tools to demonstrate mathematical concepts visually, which helps students understand abstract ideas better. Outside the classroom, I use technology for lesson planning, grading, and communicating with parents. I'm also constantly exploring new educational apps and platforms that can enhance my teaching effectiveness. Technology has become an essential partner in my educational journey.

3. Why did you use it last time?

你家里最常用的机器是什么?

The last time I used educational technology was this morning when I was preparing my lesson plan. I used a mathematics visualization app to create dynamic demonstrations for today's class on functions. I've found that when students can see how changing one variable affects the outcome in real-time, they grasp the concepts much faster. I also used an online platform to check which students had submitted their homework and to track their progress over time. Technology helps me personalize my teaching and provide timely feedback to each student .

Well, I use my smartphone big time. It has integrated a lot of functions and

4. Is there any technological tools that you want to buy but expensive?

你多久用一次?

Well, I would like to buy a mini-projector. It can project the movies or TV series on your tablet to a wall. I want it for binge-watching movies in my living room. It's stimulating and dazzling, but it's within my budget.

5. What is the latest technological device you bought?

你认为像洗碗机、扫地机这类的机器重要吗?

I bought a pair of earbuds. They are state-of-the-art with noise cancellation. So now I would listen to music lining up in a queue or doing the chores. It really goes well with the melodious music.


1. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an intelligent person you know

You should say:

  • Who she/he is

  • How you knew her/him

  • What she/he does

  • And explain why you think the person is intelligent

One of the smartest people I've met is actually one of my former students , let's call her Emily. She was a Grade 7 student in my mathematics class at Shenzhen New Oriental.

When I first met Emily, she was struggling significantly with mathematics —her score was only around 50 points. However, I quickly noticed something special about her. Despite her low scores, she was never discouraged. She would always come to me after class with specific questions, and I could see she had a natural curiosity and a logical way of thinking, even if she hadn't found the right approach yet.

What impressed me most was how quickly she could grasp concepts once they were explained in a way that made sense to her. For instance, when teaching algebra, I realized she was getting stuck on abstract formulas. So I started using real-life examples that she could relate to—like using shopping scenarios to explain equations. Suddenly, everything clicked for her.

Over time, with my guidance and her own determination, Emily made remarkable progress. By the end of the semester, her score jumped from 50 to 94 points, ranking second in the entire class! What makes her truly intelligent, in my opinion, is not just her academic improvement , but her resilience and her ability to reflect on her learning process. She started keeping a mathematics journal where she analyzed her mistakes and developed strategies to avoid them. This kind of metacognitive ability is rare even among adults.

I believe intelligence isn't just about innate talent—it's about the willingness to learn, the courage to face challenges , and the adaptability to find what works for you. Emily embodies all these qualities, which is why I consider her one of the smartest people I know. Her transformation also reinforced my teaching philosophy: every child has potential, and the key is finding the right approach to unlock it.

One of the smartest people I can immediately come up with is my best friend Frank,

Part 3

1. What kind of games could make children smarter?

你在使用机器之前会看说明书吗?

It must be those intellectual games, such as playing with puzzles. Usually some games were intended for practicing children's intellectual development. For instance, when children are playing with number puzzle games, they are able to improve their calculation skills. Similarly, the picture puzzle games could help to sharpen their cognitive skills. So I think intellectual games can truly help to make them become more intelligent, particularly in an educational sense.

2. Which careers need intelligent people?

如果机器坏了,你会找谁修理?

Loads of, I think, particularly those who are innovation-based, such as engineering and scientists. Because such careers require many innovative ideas to be constantly generated by human beings, and obviously a less intelligent person cannot realistically get his or her work done in a way that could meet the threshold of creativity and imagination. Perhaps this could well explain why such jobs are better-paid than others.

3. Is it reasonable to conduct intelligence tests for employees?

I think it is truly reasonable, but objectively speaking it is indeed a two-sided sword. On the one hand, conducting intelligence tests on employees is an efficient way to test their intelligence. Through asking them a lot of questions, employers can have an objective assessment of the potentials of their employees, which is a fair assessment model to examine one's ability in many respects.

But on the other hand, this could be unfair in some situations. If a person does not have any knowledge of his or her working environment or any working experience, the chances are that an intelligence test might produce negative results. But this does not mean a candidate is not intelligent at all. The truth is that, it always takes time to realise one's potential. So I think it is a mixed bag.

4. Why are some children more intelligent than others?

你喜欢做计划吗?

There are several reasons to explain this. One of the most likely reasons is that they were born with a strong talent. A talented person will always leave an impression on others that he or she is truly intelligent. I've seen quite a lot of children who have had an agile mind ever since they were little. Perhaps this could only be justified by considering some genetic factors.

But there are some other reasons of course. Constantly being hard-working might be another reason for explaining why someone is intelligent, which is especially the case in the current education system in which we all think "practice makes perfect". That means, if one keeps doing practice, he or she could stand out against others. So I think this question can only be answered on a case-by-case basis.

5. Who do you think plays a more important role in a child's development, teachers or parents?

你会用纸还是手机去做计划?

I cannot categorically tell you who is more important. In most cases they are equally important, because each of them play different but equally crucial roles for children. For teachers, I think they should be responsible for imparting knowledge to the children, which might not be easily done by their parents.

But on the other hand, parents could play indispensable roles in terms of offering some essential mental supports to their children. This is especially important for those children who need extra care from the adults, and parents obviously would take the demand of children in this regard more seriously than teachers do. So I cannot tell you who is more important than the other.

6. Do you think smart people tend to be selfish?

做计划的好处是什么? 你认为为学习或工作区做计划有用吗?

I think this is more of a philosophical question than a question that can be answered based on our life experience. Philosophically, it is true that one might become selfish if he or she knows how to do things in his or her best interests. The underlying reasoning behind this philosophical phenomenon is that people are greedy by their very nature.

But of course this also depends on other factors, such as the educational background as well as the life experience. Sometimes a very smart person can draw on some lessons from being overly-selfish.

7. Are smart people happier than others?

你会为学习、购物等事情(考官可能会问任意一件) 做计划吗?

I think whether a person is happy has less to do with whether he or she is smart or not. Because happiness is truly a subjective concept, which can be determined by many factors beyond the simple inquiry into whether a person is smart or not. Hypothetically a very stupid person can also be extremely happy because he truly enjoys his own life patterns, even though others might find it less attractive. So I think this question cannot be answered categorically.


2. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a person who wears unusual clothes

You should say:

  • Who she/he is

  • How you knew her/him

  • What her/his dressing style is

  • And explain why she/he dresses this way

I want to share with you a person who always dresses himself very strangely - my best friend Frank. Ever since I bumped into his in my university campus 8 years ago, he's been constantly impressing me by how his dressing style. Basically, he likes to try on everything that looks weird, such as a vampire, massacrer, you name it.

I think the reason why he likes to dress himself in this way is because he likes to live under the spotlight, attracting people's attentions. It wasn't until 7 years ago that I came to realise this point. If my memory serves me, there was a day when we had a Christmas show, in which he played a role as a killer. Normally speaking, a killer would dress very casually. But after he came on the stage, everyone was on the edge of his or her seat because he dressed up as a boss. He truly looked light a shinning star because he dressed all in black, including the black shoes, black ties, black suits and black sunglasses. I remember that everyone was yelling and shouting at that time for what he looked like, which distinguished himself from anyone else.

Part 3

1. What do people usually wear to work in China?

为什么有些人不喜欢做计划?

I guess it must the job uniform. You know, wearing the job uniform is a required dressing code in China, the breach of which will lead to financial punishment. For instance, I've seen quite a lot of people who are constantly told off by their managers for not dressing the uniform. I think this is part of our Chinese culture to some extent.

2. Why do young and elder peopled wear different clothes to work?

I guess this is because they have different tastes for clothes. It is generally believed that young people are leaning towards dressing fashionable things, while the elderly people prefer to dress conservatively. To some extent, their different preference for dressing will decide how they choose to work. This is especially the case in the working contexts in which the employers are encouraging the diversity of dressing styles. So I think the answer to this question will ultimately come down to what they endorse differently.

3. What should people consider when shopping for clothes online?

你在空闲时间一般做什么?

There are basically two things that should be considered. First, people have to wary of the quality of clothes. Statistics have shown that people are more likely to come across the knockoff products online but less likely so in the real shoppes. If people don't keep their eye out, they might be deceived and suffer a lot financially.

Besides, we have to be cautious about the online scam. The truth is that, we are living in the cyber age in which any criminal behaviours can arise easily online. This is especially frequent when people are proceeding with transactions remotely.

4. Why do women enjoy shopping in malls to buy clothes?

你在空闲时间一般做什么?

I think this question can only be answered by way of considering women's gender characteristics. Unlike men, women tend to be more fussy about everything. I don't mean this is categorical in every individual case, but it is generally true if you look at how many women might spend ages in selecting clothes and setting the right tone for dressing, whereas men are leaning towards getting such things sorted as quickly as possible. Considering the gender difference, shopping in malls might offer the women a greater opportunity to try on things and compare things in a more straight forward manner, which cannot be effectively done online since they need to visualise everything on their mind. Even though the emergence of virtual dressing room could to some extent provide the women with a chance to try on clothes remotely, this would be less efficient compared to shopping in the real shops.


3. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a person you dislike at first but finally became friends

You should say:

  • Who she/he is

  • How you knew her/him

  • Why you disliked her/him at first but changed your mind

  • And explain how you feel about the experience

I want to share with an experience regarding how I became friends with Frank, a person I used to hate so much. Back in the primary school when I bumped into him, I would say he truly left a very terrible impression on me because he was very aggressive and offensive all the times. No matter what I said, he would immediately argue with me even though he was obviously wrong while I was right.

The reason why we become friends with each other was because I accidentally found that he is a person with a strong problem-solving skill, something at which I am never good. It wasn't until 3 years ago that I came to realise his specialty in this regard. There was a day when we had a very nice mountaineering trip in order to see the shooting star. We started from the city center at around 4am and we came all the way up to the mountainous area. Initially I didn't talk to him as he was constantly giving instructions to us in an unfriendly manner. When we were nearly half way through it, we got lost in an intersection. I would say it is a place in the middle of nowhere, in which you could hardly resort to anyone to help you. But what surprised me the most was that it only took Frank 3 mins to navigate through such a complex and geographically isolated area. If my memory serves me, he applied some essential geography knowledge he had picked up from the class, like how to rely on the compass to find a way out in a place not covering by the electronic map. Normally speaking, children wouldn't be able to do this in a way as he did. Finally, we came all the way back to where we started safely, but we would not have been able to make it without his wisdom. For once in my life, I expressed gratitude for him, and we soon became friends with each other.

Part 3

1. What do you think of making friends online?

你现在的空闲时间比以前多吗?

I think it is a mixed bag. We can literally meet up with anyone we want to come across online, especially those we are unlikely to encounter in our real life. For instance, we can make some foreign friends with different cultural backgrounds, but this could not be realistically done that much in our real life. So I would say making friends online could be every productive in this regard.

But on the other hand, making friends online can be risky. Since people can be anonymous in the online community, the chances are that we might be deceived by each other. I've seen quite a lot of people whose lifetime savings were lost after they came across some criminals online. So making friends in the virtual world could be dangerous to some extent.

2. Is it a good idea to make friends who are much older than you? Do people like to make friends with elder people or young people?

你会学习家乡的历史吗? /学校会教你们家乡的历史吗?

Absolutely yes. It is generally believed that being older could to some extent be equivalent with being more experienced. For instance, some elderly people are very knowledgeable because they've been through loads of things that young people wouldn't access easily in their life. So making old friends could enrich our knowledge base.

But this could also be less entertaining. The truth is that, the generation gap between people in different age groups might result in different tastes and preferences. That means, something can attract a young person might not necessarily attract an old person. So if they make friends with each other, a lack of common topics might not sustain their friendship.

3. Why do some people think it is difficult to make friends?

你周六还是周日的空闲时间更多?

I think one of the main reasons is that their are introverted. We all know that an introverted person might not be able to keep their hearts open to others. That means, when they have a chance to discuss something with others, they might choose to hide their feelings rather than exchange them with others. Considering that making friends requires more than simply knowing each other — it requires people to get to know each other deeply, making friends is truly tricky for the introverted guys.

4. Do you think friendship is important?

你未来想有更多的空闲时间吗?

I think it is important to varying degrees for different people. For some people, friendship will be placed in the paramount position. That means, they won't normally do anything that might jeopardise their friendship. For instance, some people are willing to do anything they are capable of doing for their friends' sake, even at their own cost.

But for others, friendship is obviously less important. When it comes to prioritising friendship over other factors, such as love, family and etc, they are leaning towards give priorities to the latter but not the former.


4. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a singer or musician that you like

You should say:

  • Who she/he is

  • What type is her/his song

  • When and where you listened

  • And explain why you like her/him

The singer I want to introduce to you is Taylor Swift, who is a popular music star across the whole world. Basically, she used to be a specialist in the countryside music, but since around 2010 her speciality has gradually changed to the pop music.

Ever since her first album was released many years ago, she's gone viral among the social medias. If you were walking down the street now, you would literally see many people listening to her music on their headphones.

The reason why I like her is because she is so friendly to her fans. It wasn't until 3 years that I came to know her friendliness. After luckily getting her live music concert ticket in a lottery activity, I went all the way up to the U.K to see her live performance. Of course, as usual, she was radiant on the stage, interacting with her fans from time to time. But what surprised me the most was the fact that she even had an informal fans' meeting right after the end of the live performance. If my memory serves me, when everyone was waiting for her in the corridor outside of the stadium, she walked slowly to us, wearing a heartly smile on her face. Normally speaking, a popular singer won't do this that much nowadays. I was over the moon at that time because I even got her signature by the very end of the day. Even now when I looked back on what happened on that day, her humble and friendliness truly impress me so much.

Part 3

1. What kind of songs do people in your country like?

你们国家的孩子小时候有很多空闲时间吗?

I think it depends. Some people are the hardcore fans of the pop music, whereas others obviously prefer the rock music. I think the underlying reasoning behind their different tastes for music lies in the difference of characteristics. For instance, it is generally believed that the introverted people won't be obsessed with the rock music because they might not echo with each other, but this is truly not the case for those extroverted people— when they are listening to the rock music, they could feel the power, emotions and other positivities that are deeply inside the music.

2. Should children learn instruments when they are young? Is it necessary for school to set some music courses?

你们家乡最出名的是什么?

I think yes, but not on a compulsory basis. On the one hand, learning instruments is one of the most effective ways to stimulate children's creativity and imagination. Through learning how to play drums, for instance, children are able to grasp the lovely melodies created by themselves. In this way, they are able to create some new melodies as they try more and more types of instruments, thereby improving their creativity and imagination levels.

But on the other hand, I don't think it should be a compulsory course. The truth is that, not every child is talented in music. If we force children to do it, it might be counterproductive to their cognitive development. I've seen some children who are constantly depressed because of a lack of talent in music. But if learning instrument is an optional but not required course for them, they would be able to choose whether this is something that they truly like or not.

3. Why do people listen to music?

I think different people have different reasons. For some people, listening to music is one of the most effective ways to release their emotions. You know, we are living in a hectic world in which the accumulation of negative emotions have truly crashed people down emotionally. That means, we do need to find a way to alleviate our negative feelings. Obviously, listening to music is an effective way in this regard because its lovely melody and fantastic lyrics can truly level people's spirits up.

But for others, listening to music might not be their voluntary actions. Let's consider some short video makers. The reason why they always need to listen to music is because they need to choose the right music for their videos. You know sometimes a nice piece of music could guarantee the quality of videos, thereby increasing a lot of fans.

4. Do you agree that everyone could be a good singer?

你经常拍照吗?

I think this is more of a philosophical question than a question that can be answered based on our life experience. Philosophically, I think yes. It is true that everyone can be good as long as he or she thinks himself or herself is good. In some extreme cases, a person who don't basically know the ABC of music might think himself as a good singer, regardless of what others might think of him.

But in our real life, obviously becoming a good singer is not as easy as we imagine. We've seen quite a lot of people who still cannot master music well even after several years of practicing it. I think sometimes talent is indeed crucial when it comes to examining whether you are good or not.


5. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a movie which made you laugh

You should say:

  • When did you watch it

  • Where did you watch it

  • Who did you watch with

  • And explain why did the movie make you laugh

One of the most funny movies I've ever watched is called Dogman. It's been ages since I watched it with my best friend Frank for the first time. Basically, this movies talks about a very hilarious story about how a man raises massive amounts of dogs and how he relies on them to take a revenge against those who have ever hurt him so much.

The main reason why I bursted into laughters when I watched it was because it captures the wisdom of dogs. I vividly remember that there is a super interesting plot, in which the man commands his dogs to take a stolen wallet back and hand it in to the police. Initially, the dogs secretly sneaks into the music bar through the back door, without being noticed by anyone. Prior to this movie, I had never watched any movies describing how to count on dogs to finish tasks, so I was laughing spontaneously.

But the funny things in this movie does not end here. What happens next is even more hilarious. If my memory serves me, there is another interesting plot where all the dogs are sitting together in front of the policeman after they finish the task, reporting every single detail in the police station. I could not stop but to laugh loudly at that very moment because it seems like dogs know exactly the human's language, thinkings and behaviours.

Part 3

1. Why do people like to watch comedies? Why do people make others laugh?

你住在房子里还是公寓里?

One of the main reasons is that watching comedies can truly release our pressures. Through watching some hilarious plots, people are able to deeply relax their nerves. This is especially important for those people who are overwhelmed by their daily tasks, and they truly need some funny things to flavour their life with laugh and relaxation.

2. Is it important for teacher to tell jokes in the class?

你会打印照片吗?

I think to some extent it could be very important. We all know that telling jokes could uplift students ' mood. For instance, some history teachers would like to tell students some jokes in relation to some historical events, which can stimulate their enthusiasm about this subject.

But I don't think telling jokes should be a must for a class. By that I mean it should be left to the teachers own devices to choose whether to tell a joke or not. I've seen some cases in which the head of school mandated that all the teachers should tell jokes in class, and result was quite disappointing because some teachers don't have any sense of humour. So I think it is quite important, but should not be compulsory.

3. Why do all the ages like to watch cartoon?

你想成为专业摄影师吗?

I think the fundamental reason is that we are all childish to varying degrees. By that I mean everyone, no matter how old he or she is, might still have some childish aspects. Watching cartoon is definitely one of the most symbolic characteristics in this regard.

4. Why do people want to go back to their childhood?

你喜欢拍照吗?

I think the principal reason is that humans are nostalgic by our very nature. By that I mean we all miss something that has already happened. Going back to childhood is undoubtedly one of the ways to bring us back to the past events. Through watching some old movies, listening some old music as well as talking to our old friends, we could to some extent experience our childhood in a way that our nostalgia can be spiritually satisfied.


6. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an article on health you read in a magazine or on the Internet

You should say:

  • When you read it

  • Where you read it

  • Why you read it

  • And explain how you felt about it

I would like to share with you a very well-written article regarding how to improve our physical health by doing meditation. Basically, this article provides a detailed explanation about the physical function and mental function of meditation respectively. To put it simply, meditation can not only balance our body posture and gesture physically, but also mentally provide us with a sense of peace.

The reason why I read it was because I was looking for a way to calm me down on purpose. If my memory serves me, I was initially quite agitated about many things, so I was scrolling through some health-related websites on social medias. Suddenly, there was one article that came into sight because of its catchy title—'meditation, the killer of your anxiety'. Prior to that point, I had never realised that meditation could mentally help us. Out of curiosity, I gave it a go in a way as the article says. I first sat down, crossed my legs, and put my hands on the legs, after which I closed my eyes for 30 mins without thinking about anything that had been worrying me.

You know, some magical thing did happen, which truly convinced me of the authority of the article — all of the negative emotions were off my mind entirely. I also felt like what the article says: it seemed like I received a new lease of life.

Part 3

1. How do today's people keep healthy?

你和家人一起拍过照吗?

I think it depends. For the old people, they are leaning towards doing things that are less physically intensive, such as meditation and jogging. You know, elderly people might not be physically capable of doing those things that do not fit for their age, like some extreme sports that are popular among young people.

2. Where can people find information about keeping healthy?

I can say the main medium through which we could find information is the social medias. We are living in a cyber age in which everything can be possibly gained online. By that I mean simply typing some key words in the search engine could help us to find out what we want. When it comes to information about health, some health-related websites or videos are truly accessible and downloadable on the Internet.

3. Do schools have the responsibility to provide health education ? What activities can school organize for children to keep fit? What can parents do to help improve their children's health awareness?

? /? /?

I think schools are partly responsible for being a health education provider. We all know that the function of schools is to provide the essential knowledge for students , the scope of which goes beyond simply the academic knowledge and should include the health-related courses. For instance, the PE class is one of the compulsory courses that schools have to provide for students , without which students might not be able to balance their study and life.

But I don't think schools should assume all the responsibilities in this regard. By that I mean others, including both students themselves and their parents, should also be responsible for this. Sometimes simply being health-conscious might work far more effectively than relying on the education to keep fit. I've seen quite a lot students who have been keeping up with doing regular exercise for ages, without any supervision from their schools.

4. Do you think people are healthier now than in the past?

你多久用一次手机?

Absolutely not. Physically, I think no. It is obvious that many people are currently leading a sedentary lifestyle, which means that there would inevitably be some physical illness arising from a lack of exercise. Some examples might include cardiovascular as well as diabetics.

Mentally, I think no either. Statistics have shown that many people are suffering severe mental problems nowadays, particularly those students and workers who need to study or work intensively. Some examples might include anxieties, depressions as well as other forms of mental distress.

5. What can governments do to improve people's health?

你会用手机做什么?

In addition to the above-mentioned educational measure, governments should also improve the existing healthcare system. Since the current healthcare service is not financially affordable for everyone, I think government should provide a free health care for those disadvantaged people, which can improve the health level of the general public.


7. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an activity that you have made plans for

You should say:

  • What it is

  • Who do you do with

  • Where will you do it

  • And explain what you feel about it

I want to share with you an important plan I've made for my future—pursuing a master 's degree in Mathematics and Pedagogy at The Education University of Hong Kong. This is something I've been planning carefully for quite some time.

Let me give you some background. After graduating from university, I've been working as a mathematics teacher in Shenzhen for several years. Through my teaching experiences at different schools, I've realized that while I have strong subject knowledge and practical teaching skills, I need more systematic educational theories to take my career to the next level. That's why I made this plan to apply for EdUHK 's master 's program.

My plan includes several stages. First, I need to complete my application and prepare for the entrance requirements. During my studies, I plan to focus on courses like Mathematical Principles of Machine Learning , Inquiry-based Teaching , and AI in Education , which will help me master modern educational technologies and methodologies.

After graduation, my plan is to join Shenzhen 's public school system and become a research-oriented teacher . In the long term, I aspire to establish my own famous teacher studio, where I can not only impart mathematical knowledge but also focus on cultivating students ' mathematical thinking and problem-solving confidence.

I feel really excited and determined about this plan. Looking back on my journey, I come from a small city in Liaoning Province. I missed the entrance exam for Beijing Normal University by just 10 points, but I wasn't defeated. Instead, I gathered the courage to come to Shenzhen , where I've grown so much both personally and professionally. Now, pursuing this master 's degree feels like the natural next step—a way to honor that younger version of myself who didn't give up, and to prove that with courage and perseverance, we can always find new paths to achieve our dreams.

Part 3

1. Why do people make plans?

你经常摔坏或者弄丢手机吗?

One of the main reasons is that making plans can ensure that everything can be done in a well-organised way. For instance, by writing down a to-do-list on the papers, people would be able to know what they should do in the time order. This is especially important for those people who are constantly slacking off. If they don't make plans, they might not get their work done on time.

2. Why do some people dislike making plans?

你收到过手机做礼物吗?

Well I guess the reason is that some people don't like to restrict themselves by the plans. Instead, they are leaning towards making the last-minute decisions. I've seen quite a lot of people who like to do everything on the spur of the moment rather than in an organised way. Even though they might be disoriented sometimes because of a lack of plan, they still find doing things impulsively more acceptable than doing things in order.

3. What are the benefits of making long-term plans?

Long-term plans can truly help people to carry out their tasks on track. Since doing things on a long-term basis relatively involves more uncertainties and unpredictabilities, making plans can ensure that people won't get lost in such a long process. For instance, some business people will sign long-term contracts with their partners. If they don't do it, they might not be able to foresee every eventualities in their business relationship. So I think making long-term plans can increase security and contribute to the allocation of risk to some extent.

4. Why can't people always follow their plans?

你多久给别人做一次饭?

One of the main reasons it that people cannot react to the sudden changes. Since making plans is essentially a way to arrange what we should do in the upcoming future, inevitably something might happen suddenly to prevent people from following their plans. For instance, when there is a more important thing that urgently happens, people will need to prioritise which thing they should do in the first. Dealing with the urgent things first essentially means the fact that they cannot strictly follow their plans. Perhaps this can well explain why many people are constantly changing their plans.


8. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an impressive conversation

You should say:

  • When did it happen

  • Who you talk with

  • What is your feeling about it

  • And explain why you think it was impressive

I want to share with you a conversation that completely changed my perspective as a teacher . It happened during my first year of teaching at Shenzhen New Oriental, with a student named Tom who was scoring around 50 points in mathematics .

The conversation took place after class one day. Tom had just failed another test, and he was sitting alone in the classroom, looking completely defeated. I walked over to talk to him, expecting him to say he wanted to give up on mathematics .

Instead, to my surprise, he looked me in the eye and said, " Teacher , I know everyone thinks I'm stupid at math . But I'm not stupid—I just don't know how to learn it. Nobody has ever taken the time to explain it in a way I can understand."

That moment hit me hard. I realized that all this time, I had been focusing on teaching content rather than understanding my students ' learning needs. I had assumed Tom wasn't trying hard enough, but he was actually trying—he just didn't know how to learn effectively.

We talked for over an hour that day. Tom shared his frustration with abstract formulas, his anxiety during tests, and how he felt embarrassed to ask questions in class. I listened, really listened, without interrupting or offering quick solutions. By the end of our conversation, I promised him that I would find different ways to help him understand mathematics , and he promised me he would keep trying.

This conversation was transformative for both of us. For Tom, he went from a student who sat in the back avoiding eye contact to someone who actively participated and eventually improved his score from 50 to 79 points. For me, it completely changed my teaching approach. I became more student -centered, more patient, and more creative in my teaching methods. I developed differentiated strategies, used real-life examples, and created a supportive learning environment.

What made this conversation so impressive was that it reminded me that behind every "struggling student " is a person who wants to learn but might need a different approach. It taught me that teaching isn't just about transferring knowledge—it's about understanding each student 's unique needs and helping them discover their own potential. This conversation became the foundation of my teaching philosophy and continues to influence how I teach every day.

I want to share with you a time when I had a very intriguing conversation with my best friend Frank regarding how he climbed to the top of mountain to see the sunrise. I remember what exactly told me during the 3-hour conversation. Basically, donkey's years ago, he had a very nice mountaineering trip in order to see the sunrise. He started from the city center at around 4am and he came all the way up to the mountainous area. By the time he reached the top of the mountain, it was 6 am and he successfully saw the sunrise at 6.30.

Part 3

1. What kind of topics do young people talk about?

你愿意给一群人做饭吗?

Most some trendy topics. You know most young people like to follow the fashion, which is particularly obvious in the cyber age in which almost everything can be easily accessed online. Once they've found a new stylish thing or topic, they would like to talk it to their peers, who also share the same interest with them in this regard.

2. Did young people in the past take a long time to communicate face to face?

你会学习做饭的技能吗?

Definitely much more than they do now. Since the young people in the past generations couldn't resort to the online communication, the only way in which they could communicate with other people was to do it face to face. For instance, in my grandparents' generations, they would even spend hours and hours in commuting back in their childhood for the purpose of seeing their old friends in person. But if they were able to access online chatting, everything would have been more convenient.

3. Do young people like to communicate with friends or parents?

你觉得厨师是一个好的职业吗?

I think it depends. Some young people like to communicate with their friends. Since they have more things in common with their peers, the chances are that spending time with them might bring about more intriguing conversations. This is especially obvious when it comes to discussing some trendy things which, as I said above, might provide a platform for young people to share their common thoughts with each other. I guess everyone likes to talk to his or her kindred spirits, right?

But some young people would rather talk to their parents. Sometimes talking to their parents could offer them some help that could not be realistically gained by talking to their friends. For instance, parents would be normally more experienced than their friends when it comes to the career planning. I've even heard of some cases in which talking to friends resulted in a totally wrong decision that should've been avoided in the first place. So I think parents might offer them something more experience-based.

4. Why do people need communication skills?

One of the fundamental reasons is that communication is essentially required in many parts of our life. We are living in a world in which the interpersonal communication has been an integral part of our everyday life. Examples might include the communication between the colleagues in the workplace and between the students and teachers in the schools.

More importantly, communication skill might be crucial in terms of the problem-solving. By that I mean sometimes having a solid communication skill might avoid the conflicts that are unnecessarily happening everyday. For instance, a customer service staff must be able to verbally solve the customers' complaints. Without a solid interpersonal communication skill, everything would not have been possibly solved in the first place.


9. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a skill that you are good at and will teach other people

You should say:

  • What it is

  • When you learned it

  • How you can teach others

  • And how you feel about this skill

I would like to share with you a skill I'm really good at teaching — mathematics problem-solving. As a middle school mathematics teacher , this is not just my profession but also my passion.

Let me explain how I teach this skill effectively. When I work with students , especially those who are struggling, I've developed a three-step approach. First, I help them understand the problem by breaking it down into smaller, manageable parts. For example, if a word problem seems overwhelming, we identify what we know and what we need to find. Second, I teach them to look for patterns and connections to what they've already learned. Mathematics is very systematic—once you see the pattern, everything becomes clearer. Third, I encourage them to explain their thinking process out loud, which helps reinforce their understanding and builds their confidence.

I remember working with one student who was scoring around 50 points. She would get so anxious when she saw a mathematics problem that she couldn't even start. Instead of just giving her formulas, I taught her how to approach problems step by step. We started with basic exercises and gradually increased the difficulty. I also used real-life examples that she could relate to, like using shopping scenarios to explain algebraic equations.

The most rewarding part was seeing her transformation. Over time, she stopped being afraid of mathematics . She started keeping a journal where she analyzed her mistakes and learned from them. By the end of the semester, her score improved from 50 to 94 points, ranking second in her class!

Teaching this skill gives me an incredible sense of fulfillment. I believe mathematics isn't just about numbers—it's about critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities that will benefit students throughout their lives. When I see a student go from "I can't do this" to "I understand this now," that's the best feeling in the world.

I would like to share with you a very practical skill, through which one can improve his or her health — doing meditation. Basically, there are two functions of meditation: the physical function and mental function respectively. To put it simply, meditation skill can not only balance our body posture and gesture physically, but also mentally provide us with a sense of peace. I've mastered this skill for ages so I would say it is my specialty.

Part 3

1. Should teachers be funny when they teach?

你的家人会训练你做家务的习惯或者技能吗?

I think to some extent it could be very important. We all know that telling jokes could uplift students ' mood. For instance, some history teachers would like to tell students some jokes in relation to some historical events, which can stimulate their enthusiasm about this subject.

But I don't think telling jokes should be a must for a class. By that I mean that it should be left to the teachers' own devices to choose whether to tell a joke or not. I've seen some cases in which the head of school mandated that all the teachers should tell jokes in class, and result was quite disappointing because some teachers don't have any sense of humour. So I think it is quite important, but should not be compulsory.

2. What qualities should teachers have? Do you think everyone could be a teacher ?

你家里最喜欢的房间是哪个?

I guess they must be confident enough to express their ideas to the students . Because learning is primarily concerned with how to communicate with each other. If a teacher is not confident enough to talk to his or her students , how could the students effectively pick up some essential academic skills?

On top of that, I think teachers must also be patient enough. You know, patience is a virtue, isn't it? This is especially important when it comes to how to encourage students to learn academic subjects in an elementary stage, in which inevitably they might come across some setbacks. So I think both confidence and patience are the pre-requisites for becoming a teacher .

3. Which do you think is more important, practical skills or academic skills?

你会经常整理房间吗?

I cannot realistically tell you which one of them is more important than the other. To some extent, both of them can be equally important because they have totally different values and functions. We all know that academic skills are the touchstone in the current knowledge-driven society, whereas the some practical skills, such as social skills, are also important after the fresh graduates enter the society. It is too categorical to argue that one is more important than the other.

4. Which age group is the best at learning new things? Which stage in life do you think is suitable for learning ?

什么东西会让你的家更舒适/快乐?

I think absolutely the younger group, especially those children in their early childhood. Scientists have found that children in their 4-7 are good at turning the things they've seen into what they can actually do in practice. The underlying reasoning behind it, from my perspective, lies in the fact that children are good at imitating others. Whenever they see anything interesting in their life, they are leaning towards picking it up in their own ways. But this is not the case when it comes to considering the elderly group, who are obviously not quick-learners because of the aging issues.


10. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an experience of looking at the sky (e.g. birds, sunset, etc.)

()

You should say:

  • Where you did it

  • What you looked at

  • How long it lasted

  • And explain how you felt about it

I want to share with you a time when I had a very nice sky watching trip with my best friend Frank. Donkey's years ago, we had a very nice mountaineering trip in order to see the sunrise. We started from the city center at around 4am and we came all the way up to the mountainous area in the vicinity of my city. By the time we reached the top of the mountain, it was 6 am and we successfully saw the sunrise at 6.30.

This sky watching experience truly impressed me a lot because it was full of surprises. Initially we were already satisfied with the fact that we witnessed the entire process of sunrise. If my memory serves me, the sun gradually went up and up until it was hanging on the sky. But what happened next even impressed us much further. After about an hour and a half, we spotted a shooting star flying across the sky which, to our astonishment, was bright green in colour. At that time I was on the edge of my seat because I had never seen such a spectacular natural view up till that point. I remember that prior to our trip, we did check the weather forecast, which didn't say that there would be a shooting star flying across the sky in the early morning. Luckily, we had taken our camera and we used it to capture that fantastic moment. I guess normally speaking everyone would be stunned by the sudden appearance of the shooting star, right?

Part 3

1. Why do people look at the sky? Why do people like to look at stars/sunrise/sunset?

为什么人们喜欢看星星/日出/日落? 为什么人们会看天空?

I guess different people have different reasons. Some people like it because of the religious value of the sky. You know, in some countries, there is a religious belief that watching sky can actually bring us some good fortune. I've noticed that many people, especially old people, tend to follow it so much in their life.

Another more obvious reason is that the beauty of sky can truly impress people a lot. Since we can clearly see the clouds, stars as well as sunrise and sunset, watching sky has been a very popular recreational activity across the whole world.

2. Will people notice the appearance of dark clouds?

过去和现在的家务有什么区别?

Definitely yes, but less obviously nowadays. Normally speaking people can definitely notice it, because the appearance of dark clouds is very obvious. This is especially in those regions where the sky is constantly blue and crystally clear. If there are dark clouds appearing, it is of course noticeable.

But I think this is less obviously nowadays. You know the environmental degradation becomes quite severe now, which has already clouded the sky to some extent. By that I mean that if the sky is already not as pure as it used to be, then basically the appearance of dark clouds will be less noticeable.

3. What are the differences of the sky between now and past?

你会经常组织大扫除吗?

One of the main differences, as I mentioned above, is that it is less clear than ever before. On top of that, we can see more extreme sports or activities going one more frequently nowadays. Examples include the parachuting, hot air balloon and etc, all of which could not be realistically seen that much in the past.

4. Why should people learn about other planets?

I guess different people have different reasons. Some people are obsessed with other planets because it can stimulate their creativity and imagination. Through exploring different galaxies, planets and stars, they are able to immerse themselves in a world in which everything is in many ways different from what they can often see on the earth. For instance, some parents like to read some planet-related novels for their young children, which can vastly boost their children's imagination levels.

But for other people, like scientists and astronomers, their purpose is to explore the alternative planet to live in the future. The truth is that, the over-population crisis and the scarcity of energy resources have already pushed humans to search for other places to which we could possibly relocate. In that sense, learning about other planets is for everyone's sake.


11. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a website which sell or buy second-hand things

You should say:

  • What the website sells

  • What you bought there

  • How often you used it

  • And explain how you felt about it

I would like to share with a website in which we are able to buy all sorts of second-hand things, which is called 'Ebay'. Basically, you can buy anything you want there, including the second-hand bag, shoes, trousers, you name it. All you need to do is to put what you want in the search engine and you will be surely surprised by the numbers of results and their prices. You know, I've used it for ages ever since I traveled to the U.K.

Although I've been using it almost on a daily basis, I still think that we should be wary of the knockoff products out there. It wasn't until about 2 years ago that I came to realise this possibility. Prior to that point, all the things I had bought were perfect in their qualities. But I unfortunately came across a defective product on that day. If my memory serves me, I bought a pair of second-hand noise-cancellation earbuds, but it turned out to be totally unworkable. Initially I was double-checking whether I was using it improperly because I had never experienced such situations previously from this website, but then I was sure that it was truly a knockoff product. Finally, I issued a return and got my refund back. Ever since that awful shopping experience, I've been cautious about the quality of products on 'Ebay'.

Part 3

1. How can food be recycled?

你使用过科技(产品) 吗?

I think one of the main ways is that we could make the best use of the remainings of food for a different purpose. By that I mean that we could reuse the food that has been left from our 3 meals everyday in other contexts. For instance, I've seen quite a lot people who like to use the remainings of food as fertilisers for the growth of soil. I think that could be a good idea to save resources.

2. Some people think it's a waste to buy too much clothes for kids, what's your opinion?

你使用过科技(产品) 吗?

I think it is not necessarily a waste. One the one hand, I got to say that this behaviour will of course lead to a waste of money. Since kids are physically growing stronger and taller with lapse of time, buying too much clothes for them will necessarily lead to a big financial waste. One thing that suits a 5-year-old kid might not suit him or her any longer when he or she is at 7.

But sometimes buying too much can actually help children to understand the diversity of dressing styles. I've seen quite a lot children who know how to dress differently on different occasions because they've got many choices in their wardrobe. If parents didn't buy diverse kinds of clothes for them, they wouldn't have been possible to diversify their dressing styles in the first place. So I think it is a mixed-bag.

3. Why do some people buy second-hand clothes, while others don't like it?

你多久用一次?

I think it is largely determined by people' different consumption attitudes. Some people might place a big emphasis on pursuing the trendy style of the clothes, whereas others might be leaning towards a more economical life pattern when it comes to buying clothes. In the former situations, people might be constantly buying new clothes because that is the only way to keep themselves updated about fashions. In the latter situations, by contrast, I think people might be cautious about buying clothes at a greater cost. It makes sense to argue that buying the second-hand clothes is a more cost-effective choice for those people who aim at saving money as much as possible. So I think the question is decided by people's attitudes towards consumption.

4. Should the government encourage people to recycle items? How?

你上次用它是为什么?

I think absolutely yes. Governmental encouragement is always effective in terms of stimulating people's motivation and enthusiasm. By way of providing some incentives for those people who can recycle items in their life, more and more people could respond more actively to the needs of recycling items, thereby saving natural resources at a social level.

But I think citizens themselves should also be self-conscious in this regard. By that I mean sometimes simply reminding ourselves of the importance of recycling items would lead to a desirable result, without relying on the encouragement from the government. More importantly, relying overly on the government might not work in a long term. It is unrealistic for any national or local government to constantly encourage citizens to do one thing.


12. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a time that you set a goal and how well achieve it

You should say:

  • What it is

  • Why should achieve it

  • What did you do

  • And explain what you felt about it

I would like to share with you a time when I set a professional goal during my teaching internship and achieved remarkable results.

When I started my internship as a Grade 7 mathematics teacher , I faced a significant challenge —nearly half of my students weren't submitting their homework on time. The submission rate was only around 60%, which was quite concerning. I set a clear goal : to increase the homework submission rate to over 95% within one semester.

To achieve this goal , I knew that simply lecturing students or punishing them wouldn't work effectively. Instead, I needed to understand the root causes and design innovative solutions. After talking with students and observing their learning patterns, I realized many students lacked motivation and found the homework repetitive and unengaging.

So, I designed a comprehensive strategy with several components. First, I created a " Math Task Card" group competition mechanism. I divided exercises into different difficulty levels and encouraged students to work in teams, earning points for completing tasks. This gamification approach made homework more engaging and fostered peer learning .

Second, I established a "Growth Record" system where students could track their own progress and celebrate small wins. I also set up a "Secret Mailbox" where students could anonymously share their thoughts and struggles, giving me valuable insights into their learning needs.

The results exceeded my expectations. Within just a few months, the homework submission rate jumped from 60% to 98%! More importantly, students became more engaged and confident in mathematics . This experience taught me that effective goal -setting requires not just determination, but creativity, empathy, and the willingness to innovate. It also reinforced my belief that in education , "nurturing people" is equally important as " teaching knowledge."

I would like to share with you a time when I set a goal to pick up a very practical skill — doing meditation, through which I can improve my health conditions.

Part 3

1. How do people set a life goal ? What does a life goal contain? / What factor may influence the goals ?

? /? /?

I think there are basically two ways to set a life goal . First of all, we should be clear about what we truly want. If we don't know it, then one might not be able set it in the first place. Once we know what we need, then we should specify what we need to do in order to attain it. Since most life goals might require a reasonable amount of time to be achieved, we should learn to divide them into different stages.

2. Are the goals of every ages the same? Will it change all the time?

你在那里住了多久?

I think it is constantly changing. Since people in different age groups usually have different targets, they have to specify different goals so that we can achieve them respectively. For instance, young people will normally set goals to enter the universities in their 20s, whereas old people might focus primarily on their health issues. I think it is truly hard to have a generalised goal that remains unchanged during the course of our whole life.

However, I think there are some goals that are permanent by their very nature. One of the striking instances is love, which might follow us around forever. It makes sense to argue that when we fall in love with someone, we tend to love him or her forever, which is part of our life goals regardless of our ages. Even though time has changed a lot, love is still there.

3. Do people usually set long-term goals or short-term ones?

你有什么想买但很贵的科技产品吗?

I think it depends. Some people are leaning towards setting long-term plans, which can truly help them to carry out their tasks on track in a long run. Since doing things on a long-term basis relatively involves more uncertainties and unpredictabilities, making plans can ensure that people won't get lost in such a long process. For instance, some business people will sign long-term contracts with their partners. If they don't do it, they might not be able to foresee every eventualities in their business relationship. So I think making long-term plans can increase security and contribute to the allocation of risk to some extent.

But some people prefer to make short-term goals rather than the long-term ones. The fact is that, sticking to the long-term goals can be quite challenging for those who might are not determined enough. In order to ensure that their goals can be effectively satisfied, making short-term goals could be a more realistic choice.

4. Why is setting goals important?

你最近买的一个科技设备是什么?

One of the main reasons is that making plans can ensure that everything can be done in a well-organised way. For instance, by writing down a to-do-list on the papers, people would be able to know what they should do in the time order. This is especially important for those people who are constantly slacking off. If they don't make plans, they might not get their work done on time.


13. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an advertisement which introduced a product you have seen

You should say:

  • When and where you saw the advertisement

  • What the product was

  • How you liked the advertisement

  • And explain how you felt about it

I would like to share with a pop-up ad which introduces a pair of noise-cancellation earbuds. Basically, this ad provides a detailed introduction about the function of this newly-released product. As the name of it suggests, it has a new noise-cancellation function, which can effectively insulate us from the noisy surroundings. Besides, this product is advertised by a famous celebrity in China, Frank, whose popularity lends credibility to its usefulness.

To be honest with you, I am wary of the reliability of this ad, though it looks so stunning and credible. It wasn't until about 2 weeks ago that I came to realise why it is not as credible as it looks like. Prior to that point, I had never bought anything after watching its advertisement, but since I truly needed a pair of earbuds at that time I still gave it a go. But what happened next was far beyond my expectation. First of all, the function of the product I bought was totally inconsistent with what the ad describes. If my memory serves me, after I put it on, it felt like there was something wrong with it because I could still hear the noises around me in a way as I used to feel. At that time I realised that this is either a defective product, or a product that has been deceptively promoted by the ads. Truth to be told, I had never experienced such situations previously up till that point, but what happened truly convinced me that it was truly a deceptive ad. Finally, I issued a return and got my refund back. Ever since that awful shopping experience, I've been cautious about any product ads.

Part 3

1. Are advertisements good or bad for children?

什么类型的游戏会让孩子们更聪明?

I think it is a two-sided sword. On the one hand, watching advertisements can truly help children to access some essential information about their life and study. For instance, there are some public service announcements who aim at educating children about some important moral values, such as integrity, honesty as well as patience. Through watching such kinds of ads, children can truly pick up some important messages.

But on the other hand, some ads can be misleading for children. The truth is that, children cannot effectively distinguish right from wrong, which means that they might not be able to tell whether the ads they are watching are good or bad.

2. Do children enjoy watching advertisements?

哪些职业需要聪明的人?

I think it depends. For those ads which contain some entertaining information, such as toys and games, I think they would. Such ads can truly catch their eyes no matter what they are doing.

But when it comes to some ads that are too boring and dull for them, I don't think they would be obsessed with them. I've seen quite a lot of children who are quite resistant towards the public announcements because they don't want their spare time to be filled with those things they often get in their schools.

3. How does advertising affect people?

给职工做智力测试合理吗?

Basically advertising can provide people with access to the relevant information about product or service. For instance, people are constantly watching ads with the purpose of purchasing some trendy clothes. Without the ads, people might find it hard to access the up-to-the-minute information about fashion, which is especially obvious in the current cyber age in which online ads are almost everywhere.

More importantly, ads might affect people's decision-making process intangibly. The truth is that, most ads nowadays are full of entertaining pictures or catchy music, which might look or sound very appealing to the audience and consequently entice the audience to purchase products or service spontaneously.

4. Do advertisements necessarily have famous people, such as celebrities?

为什么有些孩子比其他孩子聪明?

Not necessarily. There is no doubt that famous people could promote the sales of the products. We all know that celebrity endorsement is a very widespread social phenomenon that is affecting almost everyone, particularly those young customers who are loyal to their favorite celebrities. That said, when customers bump into the ads in which their favourite stars are advertising the product, they tend to buy it more impulsively. In this way, the sales of the products could be effectively boosted.

However, I don't think it is necessarily needed. To some extent, the basic function of ads, which is to provide information for the customers, has nothing to do with celebrities. By that I mean that the presence of celebrities might not be as necessary as we always think of when it comes to considering how to fulfill the basis function of the ads. I've even seen some ads which use AI facial technology to replace celebrities, and the results are still good enough.


14. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a sports event and as the part of audience

You should say:

  • What it is

  • Who do you want to go with

  • Why you want to watch it

  • And explain how you felt about it

I would like to share with you a time when I witnessed an amazing sports event organised in my university — doing meditation. Basically, the competition was about whether the candidate could finish every single step of the meditation successfully. If yes, then he or she could win it. If not, then he or she will fail.

Technically, it was more of an individual-based competition rather than with other candidates. Having heard that the first meditation match would be held in my university's sports stadium, I went all the way to the auditorium and saw the entire process.

I kind of felt that the meditation match is far more difficult that how we do it on a daily basis. Prior to that point, I had never realised that the meditation match would require the candidate to sit still for more than 30 mins, and for that wrongful impression I thought every candidate could easily attain the goal of winning the meditation match. If my memory serves me, after each candidate sat down, crossed legs, and put hands on the legs, everyone was closing his or her eyes for a very long period of time and maintaining the same body posture without moving a bit. It wasn't until that moment that I came to realise it was obviously beyond the physical capacity of the most people. And what happened next was well within my expectation— there were at least 5 candidates who couldn't hold their body posture any longer and stood up before the end of the match, which obviously meant that they failed the match. Although I had already understood the techniques of meditation much long time ago, I was so lucky that I didn't sign up for the match. As you see, had I gone for it, I wouldn't have been able to get over the match successfully.

Part 3

1. What kinds of competitions do people in your country like? Why?

你自己住还是和别人住?

I guess different people have different preferences for competitions. It is obvious that young people like computer game competitions because most of them are addicted to playing online games themselves. Whenever they see such competitions going on, they are always on the edge of their seat.

But that is certainly not the case for elderly who, in my observation, are leaning towards watching music-related competitions. I've seen quite a lot of elderly people who always keep an eye on any music competitions on the music TV channel, particularly those in relation to the classical music.

2. Are there many sports programmes in your country?

你认为谁在孩子的成长中更重要,老师还是家长?

Absolutely yes. In China, for instance, there are various forms of sports programmes, including track fields, football, basketball, you name it. Most of them are live matches that essentially allow for a more engaging watching experience.

3. What are the benefits of increasing sports programme?

你认为聪明人会更自私吗?

One of the main benefits of doing this is that people could have wider access to the sports they like. The truth is that, some sports, like handball, are not as popular as others. If the numbers of sports programme are limited, then basically only the popular sports will be broadcasted and some people would be prevented from watching those less popular sports.

4. Should athletes be rewarded more?

聪明人会比其他人更快乐吗?

I think athletes should be rewarded above the average level. We cannot deny their incredible contribution to the national sports, which go far beyond what an ordinary worker would normally do nowadays. For instance, I've heard of that a professional swimmer would need to do more than 10-hour intensive practice on a daily basis in order to attend the Olympics. If the governments don't reward them far more greatly than the ordinary workers, their contributions would not out of proportion to what should be rewarded, which of course would be extremely unfair.


15. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a shop/store you enjoy going to

You should say:

  • Where it is

  • How to go there

  • Who you often go with

  • And explain why you like to visit it

I would like to share with you my all-time favourite store, which is a yoga store located in the vicinity of the city center. Basically, it is a store that provides different yoga courses for us to practice our yoga skills, such as the meditation skill. I remember how I came across it by accident about 3 years ago when it was newly-opened. At that time I and my best friend Frank were roaming around in a shopping mall, and suddenly we saw a free trial lesson poster right outside of this yoga store. Both of us walked into it and gave the lesson a free try.

I kind of feel that the service by the working staff in this store is super professional. Prior to that trial lesson, we had never realised that meditation skill could be picked up so easily with the help of the yoga staff, and for that wrongful impression I had never tried for it in the yoga store up until that point. I remember that, after I first sat down, crossed my legs, and put my hands on the legs, I would say everything was far easier than what we normally think of. By the end of the class, under the guidance of my personal trainer I even closed my eyes for 30 mins without thinking about anything that had been worrying me, which symbolised that the trial lesson was successfully done. I would say although I had already understood the techniques of it much long time ago, it wasn't until that free trial lesson that I finally got a chance to do it in real practice which, without the help of the yoga staff, could never have been achieved. So as you see, had I not walked into this store, I wouldn't have been able to pick up the relevant skills of doing meditation.

Part 3

1. How have people's shopping habits changed in recent decades?

中国人通常穿什么去工作?

One of the most striking changes is that more and more people have chosen to shop online rather than in the real shops. The truth is that, in the cyber age everything can be done so easily online, and for that reason the shopping process could be massively simplified. For instance, simply putting the product information in the search engine could lead to number results for the shoppers to consider and compare. I think people living nowadays could truly benefit a lot from the Internet when it comes to shopping.

2. Do you think shops and shopping malls will disappear in the future?

为什么年轻人和老人会穿不同的衣服去工作?

To a large extent, I think yes. As I mentioned, the virtual shopping has already gone viral nowadays, which essentially means that the numbers of shopping malls will inevitably decline with lapse of time. You know, the world is being digitalised at an irreversible pace, which means that one have to accept the gradual disappearance of the real shops and try to live with it rather than do anything against it.

3. What are the differences between shopping in street markets and in big shopping malls?

网上买衣服时人们需要考虑什么?

One of the main differences is that shopping in street markets enables us to bargain with the vendor over the price of the product, whereas the price is relatively fixed in the shopping malls. And because of that, shopping in the former would normally be disturbing and annoying, while shopping in the latter is more comfortable and relaxing. How many times we've been to the street markets, and we would usually be surrounded by the bargaining noises around us, but that is surely not the case when we are shopping in the shopping centers where there is always soothing music going on.

4. What are the differences between the shopping habits of different age groups?

为什么女人喜欢在商场逛街买衣服?

Generally, I think young people tend to shop impulsively while the elderly might shop more rationally. The underlying reasoning behind their difference lies in the fact that young people are relatively less experienced in shopping than the old ones. By that I mean that they might simply buy things on the spur of moment, without considering seriously whether it is truly what they need. But that's not the case when it comes to the elderly, who will rely on their life experience to rationalise the shopping process, mainly by way of assessing whether they truly need it or not. In that sense, the difference in terms of the life experience will decide the different shopping habits in two age groups.


16. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an old person who lives an interesting life you know

You should say:

  • Who this person is

  • Where she/he lives

  • What she/he has done in his/her life

  • And explain how you feel about this person

I'd like to talk about Professor Wang, who was my university mentor and has been a tremendous inspiration in my life and teaching career. Although she's now in her 60s, she still teaches part-time and remains incredibly passionate about education .

Professor Wang has dedicated over 40 years of her life to mathematics education . What makes her life particularly interesting is not just her longevity in the field, but her continuous innovation and adaptation. She started teaching when traditional methods were the norm—chalk, blackboard, and rote memorization. But over the decades, she has embraced every new educational technology and methodology, from computer-based learning to interactive whiteboards, and now she's even exploring AI in education !

What I find most inspiring about her is that despite her age and experience, she remains incredibly curious and open-minded. She once told me, "In education , if you stop learning , you stop being a good teacher ." Even in her 60s, she attends educational conferences, publishes papers, and mentors young teachers like myself. She was the one who encouraged me to apply for the master 's program at EdUHK , believing that I have the potential to become an exceptional educator.

Beyond her professional achievements, Professor Wang has an interesting personal life as well. She travels during school breaks, often visiting schools in different countries to observe their teaching methods. She also practices calligraphy and traditional Chinese painting, which she says helps her maintain patience and clarity of mind—qualities essential for teaching .

I deeply admire Professor Wang not just for her knowledge and experience, but for her unwavering passion for education and her genuine care for students . She taught me that teaching is not just about transferring knowledge, but about inspiring others and never stopping your own journey of growth. Whenever I feel challenged in my teaching career, I think of her and remind myself that with passion and continuous learning , age is just a number.

My great uncle is a very special person who has lived a really interesting life. He lives in a small village surrounded by beautiful countryside. He's a bit older now, but he still has a lot of energy and enjoys doing things.

Part 3

1. What do you think people like to do when they are old?

你怎么看待网上交友?

When people are old, their preferences and interests can vary widely. Some may enjoy spending time with family and friends, engaging in hobbies and leisure activities, or traveling. Others may find comfort in quiet pursuits like reading, gardening, or meditation. Many seniors also appreciate opportunities for continued learning and personal growth, whether through educational classes, volunteering, or simply pursuing new interests. Ultimately, what people enjoy doing in their later years depends on their individual personalities, circumstances, and health.

2. Do you think grandparents can always have a good relationship with their grandchildren?

交比你年长很多的朋友是个好主意吗? 人们喜欢和老年人交朋友还是和年轻人交朋友?

Whether grandparents can always have a good relationship with their grandchildren depends on a variety of factors. Family dynamics, communication styles, and individual personalities can all play a role in shaping the relationship.

However, there are many benefits to having a close bond between grandparents and grandchildren, including emotional support, cultural and family history transmission, and the opportunity for intergenerational learning . With effort, patience, and open communication, grandparents and grandchildren can cultivate a strong and rewarding relationship.

3. Do you think it is good for children to stay with grandparents?

为什么有些人认为交朋友很难?

Yes, I agree with it. Grandparents and grandchildren can learn a great deal from each other. Grandparents can share their wisdom, life experiences, and cultural knowledge, providing grandchildren with a valuable perspective on history, family traditions, and life lessons. In turn, grandchildren can offer a fresh perspective on modern culture, technology, and social trends, helping grandparents stay connected to the present and learn new things. Additionally, both generations can benefit from the emotional support and companionship that comes from spending time together.

4. Is it easier to be parents or grandparents?

你认为友谊重要吗?

Honestly, being grandparents is generally considered less stressful. Parents bear the primary responsibility for child-rearing, including discipline, education , and daily care—which can be exhausting. Grandparents, on the other hand, often enjoy a more relaxed role, focusing on bonding and occasional babysitting without the constant pressure.

5. Why do some business like/dislike elder employees?

为什么有些企业喜欢/不喜欢高龄职工?

It's a mixed bag. Many companies value older workers for their experience, reliability, and mentorship qualities — traits especially useful in roles requiring institutional knowledge. However, some employers hesitate due to stereotypes about adaptability, particularly in fast-paced tech fields where younger staff might seem more comfortable with innovation. Cost can also be a factor, as senior employees often command higher salaries.

6. Why is there a retirement age limit?

你们国家的人喜欢什么类型的歌?

Retirement age exists primarily for practical reasons. From an economic perspective it ensures workforce turnover, creating opportunities for younger generations.

Health and safety also play a role—physically demanding jobs become riskier with age. However, this system is evolving; many countries are raising retirement ages as life expectancy increases, recognizing that older adults can remain productive longer.


17. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a place you visited that you would like to go back to

You should say:

  • Where it is

  • When you visited it

  • What you did there

  • And explain why you would like to go back

I want to share with you my all-time favourite tourist attraction in my city, which is an observation tower located on the top of the south mountain. Basically it has more than 300 years' history. As far as I know, it was constructed in the early 1800s as a military tower, after which it was soon abandoned by the government and has gradually become a tower as a tourist attraction. Ever since I came to visit it donkey's years ago, I've been thinking about a trip back to visit it once again.

The reason why I would like to visit it again is mainly because it is one of the best places to overlook the seasonal changes of the whole city. In other words, when one stands over this observation tower, he or she can easily overlook different seasonal views of the whole town from a hill. It wasn't until 3 years ago that I came to realise its unique function in this regard. At that time, my university organized a very nice spring mountaineering trip in order to see the sunrise. We started from the city center at around 4am and we came all the way up to the mountainous area in the vicinity of my city. By the time we reached the top of the mountain, it was 6 am and we successfully saw the sunrise at 6.30 by standing over the observation tower, having a spectacular natural view of the whole city. But what we didn't know was the fact we had a totally different view only after 3 hours. If my memory serves me, as the sun already came out, we could clearly see the cherry blossoms everywhere down the hill. Our teacher Frank told us when it is winter, we could see things differently, which truly amazed everyone on the spot. Normally speaking, we may not be able to find such a nice place to witness the seasonal changes of the whole city. Ever since we had that mountaineering trip, I've been constantly thinking about coming back to it to experience a different natural landscape even though technically it is still the same place.

Part 3

1. What are the benefits of living in the city? / What are the differences of city-life and rural-life? / What are the differences of city-life between the past and nowadays?

现在和过去的城市生活有什么区别? /住在城市里有什么好处? /乡村生活和城市生活有什么区别?

The countryside is definitely quieter since there are much less traffic and factories in countryside like villages, rural or mountainous areas. The only sound in there is the songs of birds and rivers, which makes the environment even quieter due to the absence of human noises.

Besides, people in countryside lead a simple life without a variety of technological devices like laptops, iPads, and smart phones which produce sounds and images. All they have is the quiet beautiful scenery of sunrise and fall which is not the case in the city center.

2. Do you think living in countryside is healthier than living in city?

孩子们应该在小时候就学习乐器吗? 学校设置音乐课是必要的吗?

Not necessarily. Most people truly are. Since the countryside is generally less polluted than the cities, most people won't be bothered by some pollution-related health concerns, such as bronchitis. This is especially obvious in those areas in which there is lush vegetation, which will generate more fresh oxygen that is good for people's health.

But whether someone's healthy or not cannot be fundamentally decided by where he or she lives. There are a lot of factors that can potentially influence our health level, such as lifestyles, eating habits, etc. It would be too categorical to argue that people living the countryside is absolutely healthier than those living in the cities.

3. Are people in countryside more friendly than who in city?

为什么人们会听音乐?

Not necessarily. Whether someone's friendly or not cannot be fundamentally decided by where he or she lives. There are a lot of factors that can potentially influence the friendliness of a person, such as education , culture, etc. It would be too categorical to argue that people living the countryside is absolutely more friendly than those living in the cities.

4. Why do people often feel the desire to revisit certain places?

你同意每个人都能成为一个好歌手吗?

I think the principal reason is that humans are nostalgic by our very nature. By that I mean we all miss something that has already happened, or the places we used to stay a lot. Going back to revisit certain places is undoubtedly one of the ways to bring us back to the past events. Through revisiting the old places as well as talking to our old friends, we could to some extent experience our childhood in a way that our nostalgia can be spiritually satisfied.

5. How does revisiting a place differ from visiting it for the first time?

为什么人们喜欢看喜剧? 为什么人们会让别人笑?

One of the fundamental differences is that revisiting a place could refresh our memory about we've already experienced, whereas visiting a place for the first time can bring us a new experience. For instance, when we travel to a tourist attraction for the first time, we might be deeply impressed by its cultural messages, but that might not be the case when we come back to visit it once again, especially visiting the same thing in the same place. I think their difference can well explain why many places are only worth visiting for one time only.


18. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a time that others helped you make an important decision

You should say:

  • Who helped you

  • What the decision is

  • Why it is important

  • And explain whether the decision is important

One of the most important decisions in my life was coming to Shenzhen to work as a teacher , a decision that was strongly influenced by my university mentor.

Let me give you some background. I'm from a small city in Liaoning Province. When I was applying for university, I missed the entrance exam for Beijing Normal University by just 10 points. This was a huge disappointment for me, and I felt quite lost about my future.

That's when my mentor, Professor Wang, had a serious conversation with me. She told me something that changed my perspective: "Sometimes missing a target doesn't mean you've failed—it means life is guiding you toward a different path." She encouraged me to consider going to Shenzhen , a city full of opportunities and energy, even though it was far from home and seemed intimidating.

At first, I was hesitant. Leaving my comfort zone to start a career in a completely unfamiliar city felt overwhelming. But Professor Wang persisted. She shared stories of her own students who had gone to Shenzhen and thrived there. She reminded me that growth only happens outside our comfort zone. Most importantly, she helped me see that my passion for education could blossom anywhere, not just at my dream university.

This decision was crucial because it completely changed the trajectory of my life and career. Coming to Shenzhen pushed me to become more independent and resilient. The work environment and colleagues here opened my eyes and gave me new ideas and courage. I've had incredible teaching experiences—from my internship where I designed innovative teaching methods to working at Shenzhen New Oriental where I was honored as " Teacher of the Month" three times.

Most importantly, this journey led me to discover my true calling and inspired me to pursue further studies. Now I'm applying for a master 's degree at EdUHK to become an even better educator. Had Professor Wang not pushed me to make this decision, I might still be in my hometown, wondering "what if." I'm incredibly grateful for her guidance—it taught me that sometimes others can see our potential better than we can ourselves.

One of the most important decisions I can come up with off the top of my head must be attending the English speaking competition back in my primary school .

Part 3

1. Why do some people ask others' suggestions when making decision?

老师会在课堂上讲笑话重要吗?

I think one of the main reasons is that offering suggestions can always help others to make up their mind to do something. The truth is that, we will all come across some situations in which we cannot make decisions ourselves. In those situations, the decision-making process would be way faster if someone could persuade us to make decisions. I guess this is particularly important for those people who are always ambivalent about everything.

2. Why do some people take more time to make a decision?

为什么所有年龄段都喜欢看动画片?

I think this question can only be answered on a case-by-case basis. In most cases, people obviously need to wait for more information before a decision can be possibly made. For instance, employees are often waiting for their employers to give them further instructions in order to finalize decisions. I think this is truly an integral part of the modern hectic life in which everything has to be decided after a long period of time.

But in some cases, making decisions way longer than what might normally take would be the individual's knowingly voluntary decision. The truth is that, some people don't like to make decisions on the spur of the moment; instead, they are leaning towards waiting for further information to show up whereby they could rationalise their decision-making process. This is particularly obvious when they need to make important decisions.

3. Which do you think is better, to make a decision faster or slower?

为什么人们会想回到童年时代?

I cannot categorically tell you which one of them is more important than the other because each has its own merits. In most cases making a decision faster could help to facilitate the things that need to be solved, particularly those things which need to be urgently sorted. But on the other hand, making a decision slower is indispensable in terms of rationalizing the decision-making process. This is especially important for those decisions which need extra time to contemplate, like its pros and cons, ramifications, etc. So I cannot tell you who is more important than the other.

4. What important decisions will teenagers do?

现在的人怎么保持健康?

For most teenagers that must be the decisions related to their academic progression. Since the academic-related progression is crucial for their future career, it must be put in the paramount position. For instance, I've seen quite a lot teenagers in China who need to seriously contemplate which subject they would like to study for 4 years in university. If they don't take such decisions quite seriously, they might end up wasting their time on something in which they are not interested at all.


19. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a time when you were happy that someone persuaded you to do something

You should say:

  • When it happened

  • Who persuaded you

  • What it that thing

  • And explain why you are happy about it

I would like to share with you a time when my colleague persuaded me to apply for a master 's degree, and I'm so glad I listened to her advice.

This happened about six months ago. I was working at Shenzhen Fuyuan School as a Grade 7 mathematics teacher . While I loved teaching and was proud of my achievements—like being named " Teacher of the Month" three times at my previous school and helping students make remarkable progress—I felt I had reached a plateau in my professional development.

One day, during lunch break, my colleague and mentor Teacher Zhang noticed I seemed a bit frustrated. When I shared my feelings with her, she said something that really stuck with me: "You're already a good teacher , but if you want to become a great educator who can make a broader impact, you need to equip yourself with more systematic educational theories."

She encouraged me to apply for the Master of Arts in Mathematics and Pedagogy at The Education University of Hong Kong. At first, I was hesitant. I was worried about the workload, the cost, and whether I could balance work and study. I was also uncertain if I was "good enough" for a master 's program, especially since I had missed Beijing Normal University by just 10 points years ago—that failure still lingered in my mind.

But Teacher Zhang didn't let me give up on the idea. She reminded me of how far I had come—from a small city in Liaoning to becoming an accomplished teacher in Shenzhen . She pointed out that my practical teaching experience was actually a strength, not a weakness. More importantly, she offered to help me prepare my application and even agreed to be my reference.

Her persuasion was gentle but persistent, and it came from a place of genuine care and belief in my potential. Eventually, I decided to give it a try.

Now, as I'm going through the application process, I couldn't be happier that I followed her advice. Preparing for this master 's program has already made me reflect deeply on my teaching practice. I've started researching more educational theories, and I can feel myself growing as an educator. This experience has also helped me overcome that old insecurity about missing Beijing Normal University. I realize now that setbacks don't define us—what matters is having the courage to keep moving forward.

I'm grateful that Teacher Zhang saw potential in me that I couldn't see in myself. Sometimes we need someone else's belief to unlock our own courage.

I would like to share with you a time when my best friend Frank advised me to pick up a very practical skill — doing meditation, through which I can improve my health conditions. There was a day when we were roaming around in a shopping mall, and suddenly we saw a free trial lesson poster right outside of a yoga store. At that moment, Frank encouraged me to give it a go, though I had no intention of doing it because I thought it would be beyond physical capacity. But since he was insistent, both of us gave it a free try.

Part 3

1. Who should children listen to more, their parents or their teachers?

人们从哪能获得关于保持健康的信息?

I cannot categorically tell you who is more important. In most cases they are equally important, because each of them play different but equally crucial roles for children. For teachers, I think they should be responsible for imparting knowledge to the children, which might not be easily done by their parents. But on the other hand, parents could play indispensable roles in terms of offering some essential mental supports to their children. This is especially important for those children who need extra care from the adults, and parents obviously would take the demand of children in this regard more seriously than teachers do. So I cannot tell you who is more important than the other.

2. Why people need to be persuade?

学校有责任提供健康教育吗? /学校可以组织孩子进行哪些活动保持健康? /父母可以怎样提升孩子的健康意识?

I think one of the main reasons is that persuading can always help others to make up their mind to do something. The truth is that, we will all come across some situations in which we cannot make decisions ourselves. In those situations, the decision-making process would be way faster if someone could persuade us to make decisions. I guess this is particularly important for those people who are always ambivalent about everything.

3. What are the ways to persuade children in the school ?

你认为人们现在比过去健康吗?

I think it depends on the age of the children. For children in the early childhood, we should persuade them to do some recreational activities. Since young children tend to be curious and passionate about anything that might stimulate their creativity and imagination, teachers should always take them to some recreational places, such as the amusement parks to inspire them to have fun in a way that could give them a spiritual satisfaction.

But this is not the case when it comes to the children in the middle childhood. The fact is that, children between 7-14 should focus primarily on improving their cognitive skills, which is the landmark characteristic of the current Chinese education system. In light of that, teachers will inspire children to do something which can contribute to their cognitive development, such as playing with puzzles.

4. What advice should people listen to?

政府可以怎样提升人们的健康?

Absolutely. The digital age has democratized knowledge acquisition to an unprecedented degree. While in the past information was confined to books and experts, today anyone with Internet access can instantly retrieve information on virtually any topic. The sheer volume of available data, coupled with powerful search technologies, enables people to learn more in minutes than what might have taken days of research in previous eras.


20. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe a time that you decided to wait

You should say:

  • What it was

  • Why you decided to wait

  • Do you think it is important

  • And explain how you feel about it

I want to share with you a time when I decided to wait for my student 's progress, even though it took much longer than expected.

During my time at Shenzhen New Oriental, I had a student named Tom who was scoring around 50 points in mathematics . When I first started teaching him, he had completely given up on himself. He would sit in class with his head down, barely participating, and his homework was often incomplete or missing.

Many teachers might have lost patience or focused their energy on students who showed quicker progress. But I decided to wait—to give him the time and support he needed, even when it seemed like nothing was working. I knew from my own experience that sometimes students just need someone who believes in them consistently.

I developed a special plan for Tom. Instead of pushing him to catch up quickly, I started with the basics and set small, achievable goals . I used real-life examples to explain abstract concepts, I created a supportive learning environment where he felt safe making mistakes, and I established a "Secret Mailbox" where he could share his frustrations without judgment.

For the first two months, I saw very little improvement . His scores barely budged, and sometimes I wondered if I was doing the right thing by waiting instead of pushing harder. But I remembered something important from my own teaching philosophy—that every child has potential, and finding the right key might take time.

Then, gradually, things started to change. Tom began asking questions in class. He started submitting homework regularly. One day, he told me, "I actually understand this chapter!" That was the breakthrough moment.

By the end of the semester, Tom's score jumped from 50 to 79 points—a remarkable improvement ! But more importantly, his confidence had completely transformed. He went from saying "I'm just bad at math " to "I can do this with the right approach."

This experience taught me that patience in education isn't just about waiting passively—it's about consistently believing in someone even when they don't believe in themselves. Had I given up on Tom earlier, he might never have discovered his own potential. Sometimes the most rewarding results come to those who are willing to wait.

I want to share with you a time when I made up my mind to wait for the sunrise on the top of the south mountain in my city.

Part 3

1. Is patient important?

为什么有人会做计划?

Absolutely yes. I think patience is the key to success . If a person is not patient, he or she may not be able to deal with things properly. For instance, I've seen quite a lot of people who cannot basically achieve anything that requires much time to think and plan, mainly because of the lack of patience.

Having said that, I think being patient does not mean that one has to always regard waiting as the best option. Sometimes we need to be flexible enough to adjust our strategies based on the situations. So I think patience is important, but should be exercised with caution.

2. Why do people have to wait in line?

为什么有人不做计划?

One of the main reasons is fairness. Waiting in line ensures that everyone gets served in the order they arrived, which is a fundamental principle of fairness in any service environment. Additionally, it helps maintain order and prevents chaos in public spaces.

3. Why do children lack patience?

长期计划有什么好处?

One of the main reasons is that children are not consciously aware of being patient. The simple fact is that children tend to react to things more instinctively rather than rationally. That means, even though something does require them to do or behave patiently, they would still react to it in their own way, without thinking about what their actions actually mean for others. For instance, some children cannot sit for a long time in the library and they might spontaneously behave in a very naughty way even though this might not be decent in such situations. So I think it is the nature of children to behave impatiently.

4. Do you think patience is necessary for life?

为什么人们不能按计划行事?

To some extent I think yes. As I mentioned above, patience is a very important virtue, without which one might not be able to behave properly.

Another reason why it is indispensable for our life is because it can be good for stabilising our mentality. It is often the case that an impatient person can easily lose his or her temper, and this will inevitably cause some further troubles to other people. But if a person could be fully aware of the importance of patience, he or she would have learnt to balance the mentality even though something disturbing or annoying has happened to him or her.

5. Is patience an inborn skill or acquired?

年轻人都讨论什么话题?

I think this is a very complex question, which might require further research. It truly makes sense to argue that it is an inborn skill. Statistics have shown that some people were born with a strong ability of patience without any further training.

However, more and more scientific research has also shown that this skill could be acquired by way of gaining some essential knowledge or accumulating some real-life practice, which seems to overturn the argument that it is an inborn skill. So I think the jury is still out on this question.

6. When should people wait for something in your country?

过去年轻人是否会花很多时间进行面对面的交流?

I think this question can only be answered on a case-by-case basis. In most cases, people obviously need to wait when there is a long queue, which is especially often the case nowadays. For instance, people are often queuing up in some famous tourist attractions. I think this is truly an integral part of the modern hectic life.

But in some cases waiting for something might be the individual's knowingly voluntary decision. The truth is that, some people don't like to make decisions on the spur of the moment; instead, they are leaning towards waiting for further information to show up whereby they could rationalise their decision-making process. This is particularly obvious when they need to make important decisions. So I think when we should wait varies from case to case.

7. Is it happier to get something after waiting?

年轻人喜欢和朋友沟通还是和家长沟通?

I think this is more of a philosophical question than a question that can be answered based on our life experience. Philosophically, it is true that one might become dissatisfied with something that has been gained easily. The underlying reasoning behind this philosophical phenomenon is that people are greedy by their very nature. But if there was something that required ages for them to accomplish, then they would probably value it more greatly.

So I think it is indeed the case that getting something after waiting might truly elevate our spiritual satisfactions.


21. (Part 2&3 )

Part 2

Describe an impressive English class you enjoyed

You should say:

  • When it was

  • What it was about

  • What you did in the class

  • And explain why you enjoyed it

One of the most impressive English classes I can come up with off the top of my head must be the one I attended back in my primary school . Back then I was still a student who basically didn't know anything about English, particularly with regard to some frequently used vocabularies and complex grammatical structures. But there was a day when my English teacher Frank organised an English speaking class, inviting different students to make a self-introduction one by one. If my memory serves me, the class lasted for about 3 hours and luckily I was the last person who did this.

The main reason why I was so obsessed with it was because I successfully overcame my anxieties to speak English. Prior to that point, I had never spoken English in practice, so I was extremely nervous initially. But what surprised me the most was the fact that Frank was constantly encouraging me to express myself as confidently as possible. Normally speaking, we can hardly come across teachers in China who is constantly encouraging you to overcome your problems. For example, I can clearly remember that there was a moment when I was kind of rambling on because of the nervousness, and he was constantly wearing a heartly smile to calm me down.

Although I made tons of mistakes, even including the pronunciation of my own name, I successfully introduced myself to everyone. I was over the moon by the end of the class, because everyone was applauding at that time.

Part 3

1. What personal characteristics and qualities do you think a good English teacher should have?

为什么人需要沟通技巧?

I guess they must be confident enough to express their ideas to the students . Because learning a language is primarily concerned with how to communicate with each other. If a teacher is not confident enough to talk to his or her students , how could the students effectively pick up some essential language skills?

On top of that, I think English teachers must also be patient enough. You know, patience is a virtue, isn't it? This is especially important when it comes to how to encourage students to learn English in an elementary stage, in which inevitably they might come across some setbacks. So I think both confidence and patience are the pre-requisites for becoming an English teacher .

2. Do you think grammar is important for learning English?

老师应该在教学中有趣一些吗?

Absolutely yes. Learning grammar is part of learning the ABC of English. Without a solid grammatical skill, students wouldn't be able to move on to a higher English learning stage, such as communicating people in a grammatically error-free manner.

However, grammar may not be equally important to everyone I guess. The fact is that, some people may not truly care about grammar at all, particularly on some informal occasions. For instance, there are some English speaking countries in which even the native speakers don't care about their grammatical mistakes. As long as they are able to communicate with each other, they won't be fussy about grammars. So I think grammar is indeed important, but it is important to varying degrees to different people.

3. Why do you think people learn foreign languages?

老师应该有什么样的品质? 你认为每个人都可以成为老师吗?

I think this is a fundamental way to understand the foreign cultures. We all know that language forms an integral part of a country's culture. Through learning foreign languages, one can effectively build his or her cultural awareness about different countries, thereby becoming more culturally-sensitive and open-minded.

4. What is the role of an English teacher ?

你认为实践技能和学术知识哪个更重要?

One of the most important roles must be the knowledge provider. It is truly crucial that English teachers should assume the responsibility for imparting knowledge to their students . This is very important in the current context of globalisation in which any knowledge or skills about language are essential to the career success of the fresh graduates, particularly for those who specialise in language and plan to embark upon the career in the language fields.

5. Why do some people learn faster than others?

哪个年龄段最擅长学习新东西? 你认为哪个年龄段最适合学习?

It is hard to say. Some people were born with a strong talent in learning , which renders them very competitive in terms of acquiring knowledge. For instance, some students can easily memorise some complex formulas or principles that might not be easy for other students , which could well prove the fact that the talent is indeed an important factor when it comes to explaining why some students are fast-learners.

On top of that, other people might be very diligent in learning things. Once someone has become hard-working, the chances are that he or she can master the essential skills for learning faster. I've seen quite a lot of students in the Chinese education system who can learn way faster than others after receiving some intensive academic training programmes. It seems to me that the dedication to study is closely related to speed of the study pace to some extent.

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