2026 年 9-12 月雅思口语题库（三）：Part 2/3 全部 61 张话题卡

系列导航（共 3 篇，纯文本无链接）：（一）使用说明 · 总览与速查 ｜（二）Part 1 全部 41 题 ｜（三）本文 Part 2/3 全部 61 张话题卡。

媒体类（9 张）

🆕新题｜令人印象深刻的课程

Describe a course that impressed you a lot

You should say:

• What the course was about
• Where you took the course
• What you did during the course
• And explain why it impressed you a lot I’d like to talk about an online course on Consumer Psychology and Digital Marketing that I completed last year on an educational platform called Coursera. The course focused on how psychological triggers influence human decision-making in the digital age, and how brands build authentic customer engagement. Rather than just memorizing theoretical models, we engaged in hands-on practical projects. Every week, we analyzed real-world business case studies, designed mock ad campaigns, and even conducted A/B testing to see which visual elements yielded higher conversion rates. What impressed me most was the hands-on methodology and the instructor’s expertise. She was an industry veteran who shared insider knowledge and real failures from her own career, rather than just reciting textbook definitions. Ultimately, the course completely reshaped my mindset. It taught me to look beyond surface-level metrics and understand the emotional drivers behind consumer habits. It was incredibly eye-opening and equipped me with practical skills that I still apply to my daily work today.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What do people need to remember in their daily lives?

人们日常需要记住哪些东西？

In our daily lives, people need to manage both practical commitments and emotional priorities. On a functional level, staying on top of work deadlines, scheduled appointments, and financial obligations keeps life running smoothly. However, on a deeper level, it’s equally vital not to lose sight of personal health and cherished relationships amid the hustle and bustle of modern life.

What can we learn from history?

我们能从历史中学习到什么东西？

History serves as an invaluable guide for the present. Crucially, studying past events allows us to analyze historical precedents so that society can avoid repeating systemic mistakes, such as economic crises or conflicts. Furthermore, understanding historical context helps us decipher the root causes of contemporary global issues, fostering collective wisdom and informing better policy decisions for the future.

Why do some people have a better memory than others?

为什么有些人的记忆力比别人好？

Variations in memory performance often stem from a combination of genetic predispositions and cognitive habits. On a biological level, some individuals naturally possess higher neuroplasticity, enabling their brains to process and retrieve information more efficiently. Equally important are lifestyle factors and mental strategies—those with superior recall frequently employ mnemonic techniques and maintain habits like quality sleep and regular exercise, which optimize overall cognitive function.

Which can help people remember things better, words or photos?

什么东西能够帮助记忆，文字还是图片？

Generally, photos are more effective for immediate recall due to the picture superiority effect, as the human brain processes visual information far quicker than text. A single photo acts as a powerful visual trigger, instantly evoking emotions and vivid memories. However, words remain irreplaceable for retaining abstract concepts, complex ideas, and nuanced context that a static image simply cannot convey.

Can technology help people remember things better?How?

科技可以帮助人们提升记忆力吗？为什么？

Absolutely. Technology acts as a powerful external memory aid, significantly offloading cognitive burden. Digital calendar apps and smart reminders ensure we never miss critical tasks, while spaced repetition algorithms in modern learning software optimize long-term retention by prompting review at ideal intervals. Instead of replacing human memory, technology effectively cues our recall when we need it most.

🆕新题｜一本让你兴奋的书

Describe an exciting book you have read

You should say:

• What the book is
• What it is about
• Why you read it
• And explain why you think it is an exciting book I’d like to describe a sci-fi thriller titled Dark Matter by Blake Crouch, which is easily one of the most gripping books I’ve ever picked up. The plot revolves around a brilliant physicist named Jason, who is kidnapped and thrust into an alternate reality where his life unfolded quite differently—he chose scientific glory over marrying his wife. To return to his true family, he must navigate an infinite maze of parallel universes while constantly evading alternate versions of himself. I decided to read it after a close friend passionately recommended it, praising its fast-paced storytelling and unique premise. What makes this book exceptionally exciting is its relentless narrative momentum paired with a mind-bending premise. From the very first chapter, the author throws you into a high-stakes survival story where every decision creates a branching timeline. It seamlessly blends cutting-edge quantum physics with profound emotional depth, forcing you to ponder existential “what-if” questions about life choices. The intricate plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat, making it an absolute page-turner that I finished in a single sitting.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kinds of books do people like to read nowadays?

人们现在喜欢读什么类型的书？

Nowadays, reading tastes largely split between self-improvement literature and immersive escapist fiction. Driven by high-pressure lifestyles, many turn to personal finance, psychology, and productivity titles to gain actionable insights for self-optimization. Simultaneously, blended genres like ‘romantasy’ and sci-fi remain immensely popular as they provide a much-needed cognitive retreat from daily anxieties. Furthermore, given today’s fragmented attention spans, people increasingly lean toward digestible non-fiction and audiobooks.

How are the books young people read different from those older people read?

年轻人和老年人喜欢读的书有什么区别？

The distinction primarily lies in reading motivations and genre preferences. Younger demographics often gravitate toward fast-paced, high-concept fiction—such as fantasy or dystopian literature—and practical self-help books aimed at career building and identity formation. In contrast, older readers frequently prefer historical memoirs, biographies, and classic literature, seeking reflective narratives that mirror their rich life experiences. Additionally, youth tend to consume more digitally serialized content, whereas seniors generally value the tactile and uninterrupted immersion of traditional print.

Why can some books remain popular for a very long time?

为什么有些书可以持续流行很长时间？

Classics endure because they explore enduring universal themes—such as mortality, ambition, love, and morality—that transcend temporal and cultural boundaries. Rather than relying on fleeting trends, timeless literature offers profound psychological insights that every generation can re-interpret through its own societal lens. Ultimately, their longevity stems from capturing the fundamental human condition, rendering their message perpetually relevant regardless of how much the world evolves.

Do you prefer reading the book or watching the film first? Why?

你喜欢读书还是喜欢看电影？为什么？

I strongly advocate for reading the book first. Literature provides an unfiltered narrative depth and intricate internal monologues that allow your imagination to construct the visual world organically. Watching the movie afterward offers a fascinating cinematic adaptation to compare against your mental blueprint. Doing it in reverse often anchors your perception, effectively spoiling the mystery and stripping away the nuanced character development that makes original literary works so compelling.

Do people like the film adaptations after reading the books?

人们是否喜欢先阅读书籍然后看电影？

More often than not, readers find film adaptations somewhat underwhelming, if not outright disappointing. Because books allow for boundless internal monologues and intricate world-building, movies are forced to streamline complex subplots and make creative concessions to fit a standard runtime. While book purists frequently lament the loss of subtle nuances, audiences can still appreciate an adaptation when filmmakers deliver a breathtaking cinematic spectacle that captures the emotional core of the source material.

🆕新题｜不喜欢的一部电影

Describe a movie you dislike

You should say:

• What the movie was
• When you watched it
• Who you watched it with
• And explain why you dislike it I’m going to talk about a fantasy film that I really didn’t enjoy. Its name is Dark Horizon. I watched it about two years ago at home. It was on a streaming platform, and my best friend picked it. We watched it together on my laptop during a weekend evening. To be honest, I had high expectations before we started. But the movie turned out to be pretty disappointing. First of all, the plot was confusing. The story did not make much sense, and many important parts felt rushed. Also, the characters were flat; I could not connect with any of them. What’s more, some scenes were really predictable. I could guess what would happen next almost every time. Even though the visual effects were okay, the weak story ruined the whole experience. That is the main reason why I disliked this movie, and I would not recommend it to others.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kinds of movies do people in China like to watch?

中国人喜欢看什么类型的电影？

Chinese audiences enjoy a real mix, but comedies and big action blockbusters are probably the most popular because they offer pure entertainment and an escape from daily stress. Family dramas and patriotic war films also do very well here, especially during major holidays. And with streaming platforms growing so fast, young people are getting more into science fiction and Hollywood films as well.

Do young people and older people like to watch the same kinds off movies?

年轻人和老年人喜欢看的电影类型一样吗？

Not really. Young people usually prefer fast-paced films like superhero movies, sci-fi and thrillers, partly because they’ve grown up with streaming and global pop culture. Older viewers, by contrast, tend to go for slower, story-driven films such as historical dramas or classic movies that remind them of their own lives. So age and life experience clearly shape our taste in films.

Why are sci-fi movies popular today?

为什么科幻片如今很受欢迎？

I think it’s mainly because of the amazing visual effects — modern technology makes distant planets and futuristic worlds feel completely real, which is exciting on a big screen. Beyond the spectacle, sci-fi also asks big questions about technology, AI and the future of humanity, and those topics feel very relevant right now. So it’s entertainment and food for thought at the same time.

Is it better to watch a movie in its own language?

看电影是不是看原声版更好？

Yes, I’d say so. When you watch a film in its original language, you hear the actors’ real voices and emotions, which dubbing often loses, so subtitled versions appeal to many serious movie fans. Of course, for children or people who aren’t used to foreign languages, a good dub makes the story much easier to follow. So the best choice really depends on the viewer.

Where do Chinese people usually watch a movie?

中国人通常在哪里看电影？

These days most people watch films at home through streaming platforms, because it’s cheap, private and convenient. But for big blockbusters, people still make the effort to go to the cinema for the huge screen and the surround sound. Watching a highly anticipated film on its opening night with friends remains a popular social occasion in China.

How do people watch movies today: at the cinema or at home?

现在人们看电影主要去电影院还是在家看？

I think home viewing clearly dominates nowadays. Online platforms offer thousands of films at a low monthly price, and you can pause or rewatch them whenever you like. That said, cinemas haven’t disappeared — people still go out for special effects movies, dates or family outings, so the two actually coexist.

♻️保留题｜一个有趣的生物知识 🔗 机考练习

Describe something interesting you learned about biology.

You should say:

• What it was
• When you learned it
• How you learned it
• Why you found it interesting
• And explain whether it changed the way you think about nature One interesting thing I learned about biology is how the human immune system works. I learned this when I was in high school during a biology class. We were studying the human body, and our teacher explained how white blood cells protect us from viruses and bacteria. I learned it through classroom lessons, diagrams in our textbook, and a short documentary video that showed how the immune system reacts when a virus enters the body. The video made it much easier to understand because it visualized something that is normally invisible. I found it very interesting because it feels like the body has its own intelligent defense system. The idea that millions of cells are constantly working together to protect us without us even noticing is amazing. It made me realize how complex and well-organized the human body is. Yes, it definitely changed the way I think about nature. I used to think of the body as something simple, but now I see it as a highly advanced system that is similar to a machine. It also made me more appreciative of how delicate and powerful life can be at the same time.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do you think children are interested in learning biology?

你认为孩子们对学习生物感兴趣吗？

I think some children are interested in biology, especially when it is taught in a fun and visual way, like through experiments or videos. However, others may find it a bit difficult or boring because it involves a lot of scientific terms and memorization. Overall, their interest often depends on how the subject is introduced to them.

2 Why are many children interested in animals?

为什么很多孩子对动物感兴趣？

Many children are interested in animals because they are naturally cute, lively, and easy to relate to. Animals also appear in cartoons, books, and games, which makes them familiar and fun for kids. In addition, children often enjoy visiting zoos or seeing pets, which increases their curiosity about animals.

3 Should schools teach children more about biology?

学校应该教孩子更多生物知识吗？

Yes, I think schools should teach children more about biology because it helps them understand how living things and their own bodies work. This knowledge can also encourage healthy habits and increase awareness of the environment. In addition, it can spark curiosity and inspire some students to pursue science-related careers in the future.

4 Do you think visiting zoos or museums can help children learn biology?

你认为参观动物园或博物馆能帮助孩子们学习生物吗？

Yes, I think visiting zoos or museums can definitely help children learn biology. Zoos allow them to see animals in real life, which makes learning more interesting and memorable, while museums often provide interactive exhibits that explain scientific concepts clearly. These experiences can spark curiosity and make biology feel more fun and practical rather than just something from textbooks.

♻️保留题｜想颁布的新法律 🔗 机考练习

Describe a new law you would like to introduce in your country.

You should say:

• What law it is
• What changes this law brings
• Whether this new law will be popular
• How you came up with the new law And explain how you feel about this new law. One new law I would like to introduce in my country is a law that limits the amount of homework given to primary and middle school students. In my opinion, many students are under too much academic pressure nowadays, and they often spend most of their evenings doing assignments instead of relaxing or developing hobbies. This law would set a maximum amount of homework teachers could assign each day, especially for younger students. Schools would also be encouraged to provide more sports activities, art classes, and social events so that students could have a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. I think this law would be quite popular among students and parents because many families already complain that children do not get enough sleep or free time. However, some teachers and parents might worry that reducing homework could affect academic performance, so there would probably be some debate at first. I came up with this idea after talking with several students who said they felt exhausted and stressed almost every day. I also noticed that many young people seem to lose interest in learning because studying becomes more like a burden than something enjoyable. Personally, I strongly support this law because I believe education should not only focus on exam results. Children should also have time to rest, explore their interests, and enjoy their childhood.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 What rules should students follow at school?

学生们在学校应该遵守哪些规则？

I think schools mainly need rules that keep students safe and allow everyone to learn in a calm environment, such as arriving on time, not using phones in class, and respecting teachers and classmates. Rules about behaviour, like no bullying or fighting, are equally important because they protect weaker students. A few simple, clearly explained rules work far better than dozens of strict ones.

2 Do people in your country usually obey the law?

你们国家的人通常会遵守法律吗？

Generally speaking, yes. Most people follow traffic rules, pay their taxes on time and respect public order, mainly because the law is enforced fairly consistently. Of course, minor violations like jaywalking or littering still happen, but serious crime is relatively rare. I’d say most citizens are law-abiding in their daily lives.

3 What kinds of behavior are considered as good behavior?

什么样的行为算是好行为？

Good behaviour usually means being considerate of others — things like queuing patiently, giving up your seat to elderly people on the bus, and speaking politely. In public spaces it also means not littering or shouting. These small acts matter because they make shared environments pleasant for everyone.

4 Do you think children can learn about the law outside of school?

你认为孩子们能在学校之外学到法律知识吗？

Yes, definitely. Children absorb a lot from their parents and from everyday life, such as learning to cross the road safely or realising that taking things without paying is wrong. TV programmes, news stories and even games about social rules can also teach them. School is still the main place, but real life probably leaves the most lasting impression.

5 What are the benefits for people to obey rules?

遵守规则对人有什么好处？

Obeying rules makes life safer and more predictable for everyone. If all drivers respected traffic lights, there would be far fewer accidents, and if people queued properly, there would be much less daily conflict. On a personal level, following rules also builds a good reputation and keeps you out of trouble.

6 How can parents teach children to obey rules?

父母如何教孩子遵守规则？

The most effective way is to lead by example, because children copy what their parents do far more than what they say. It also helps to explain the reason behind a rule instead of just saying “because I told you so”. And praising good behaviour works better than punishing every small mistake.

♻️保留题｜当地的新闻 🔗 机考练习

Describe a piece of local news

You should say:

• What it was
• When you heard/saw it
• Where you heard/saw it
• And explain how you felt about it One piece of local news I remember clearly was about a new high-speed railway station being built in my city. The news said that the project would improve transportation and make it easier for people to travel to nearby cities for work or tourism. I first heard about it around six months ago. At that time, many people were discussing it because it was considered one of the biggest construction projects in the area. I saw the news on a short-video platform while I was scrolling through my phone in the evening. Later, I also read more detailed reports on local news websites and social media. According to the report, the new station would reduce travel time significantly and create more job opportunities for local residents. Some business owners were especially excited because they believed it would attract more tourists and investment to the city. Personally, I felt quite excited and optimistic when I heard the news. I think better transportation can really improve people’s daily lives and help the local economy develop faster. Besides that, I felt proud because it showed that my hometown is becoming more modern and connected with other cities. I also hope that after the station is completed, I will have more chances to travel conveniently and explore different places nearby.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do many people talk about local news?

很多人会讨论本地新闻吗？

Yes, fairly often. Local news directly affects people’s daily lives — things like new bus routes, property prices or school closures get discussed at work and among neighbours. Unlike distant national politics, local topics feel close to home, so people are naturally more willing to share their opinions about them.

2 Do young people or old people care more about local news?

年轻人和老年人谁更关心本地新闻？

I’d say older people care more. They have usually lived in the same area much longer, so they feel more attached to the community and are more affected by local changes like redevelopment or hospital services. Young people, by contrast, mainly follow national or global stories, celebrities and entertainment on social media.

3 Do people pay more attention to local news or national news?

人们更关注本地新闻还是全国新闻？

I think national news grabs more attention, mainly because the media gives it far more coverage and it feels more significant. Big national stories, such as economic policy or natural disasters, are also discussed everywhere, including on social media. Local news matters when it touches people directly, but national headlines usually dominate the conversation.

4 Do you think people in your country watch local news more often or international news?

你觉得你们国家的人更常看本地新闻还是国际新闻？

Honestly, most people watch national and local news more often than international news. International stories can feel distant unless they involve major events like wars or big economic news. That said, interest in international news has grown along with globalisation and social media, especially among younger and better-educated people.

5 Do people often buy newspapers to read news nowadays?

现在人们还经常买报纸看新闻吗？

No, hardly anyone buys newspapers anymore. Almost everyone gets the news for free on their phones through news apps or short-video platforms, which update instantly. Buying a paper now feels slow and wasteful, so sales have dropped sharply, although some older readers still keep the habit.

6 Are the neighbors in your community familiar with each other?

你所在社区里的邻居们彼此熟悉吗？

It varies a lot. In older neighbourhoods or small towns, neighbours often know each other well and greet one another daily, whereas in modern apartment blocks people tend to keep to themselves. In my community, most residents recognise each other but don’t really socialise beyond a quick hello. City life has made us more private, which is a little sad.

7 Do you think it is better to be unfamiliar with neighbors or as close as people used to be?

你觉得和邻居保持距离好，还是像过去那样亲近好？

I think some middle ground is best. Being friendly with neighbours makes daily life safer and more pleasant — they can lend a hand in emergencies or collect your parcels. But being too close can also feel intrusive, because everyone values privacy nowadays. As long as people are polite and ready to help when needed, that’s probably enough.

8 Why do people get involved in the community?

为什么人们会参与社区活动？

Some people get involved because they care about local issues and want their area to improve, such as better parks or safer streets. Others simply enjoy the social side, since community activities are a great way to make friends, especially for retired people or newcomers. In many cases, involvement also gives people a sense of belonging and purpose.

♻️保留题｜有趣的视频 🔗 机考练习

Describe an interesting video

You should say:

• When and where you watched it
• What it is about
• Why you watched it
• And explain how you feel about it One interesting video I watched recently was a documentary-style video about the abandoned city of Pripyat near the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. I watched it about two months ago on YouTube while I was relaxing at home on a weekend evening. The video mainly showed what the city looks like today and explained the history behind the nuclear accident. The creator walked through empty schools, hospitals, and apartment buildings, and everything looked frozen in time. There were old toys, books, and furniture left behind, which made the whole place feel both mysterious and sad. The video also included interviews with experts and some historical footage from the 1980s. I watched it because I’m very interested in history and documentaries, especially topics related to science and human society. The title and thumbnail immediately caught my attention because the city looked like a scene from a movie. Besides, I had heard about the Chernobyl disaster before, but I didn’t really understand how serious it was until I watched this video. I found the video extremely fascinating and thought-provoking. It not only taught me a lot of historical knowledge, but also made me realize how powerful and dangerous nuclear technology can be if it is not managed properly. At the same time, the quiet and empty atmosphere in the video left a very deep impression on me. Even after finishing it, I kept thinking about it for quite a long time.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 What kind of videos do people in your country like to watch?

你们国家的人喜欢看什么类型的视频？

Short videos are by far the most popular nowadays, especially funny clips, food videos and life-hack videos on platforms like Douyin. Young people also watch a lot of vlogs, gaming videos and educational content. Documentaries and TV dramas are still watched, but mainly on streaming sites rather than traditional television.

2 Which is more helpful, watching videos or reading books?

看视频和读书哪个更有帮助？

It depends on what you’re trying to learn. Videos are great for practical, visual skills — you can literally watch someone fix a bike or cook a dish, which is far clearer than words. Books, on the other hand, go deeper and force you to think, which makes them better for building knowledge and concentration. So I’d say we need both: videos for quick learning, books for real understanding.

3 What skills can people learn from watching videos?

人们能通过看视频学到哪些技能？

Almost any practical skill, honestly — cooking, working out, using software or even fixing things at home. Tutorial videos are especially useful because you can pause, rewind and follow the steps at your own speed. Language learning is popular too, since you can hear natural pronunciation and watch real conversations.

4 Are there any differences between the videos that young people and old people like to watch?

年轻人和老年人喜欢看的视频有区别吗？

Yes, quite big differences. Young people usually prefer fast, entertaining content like short comedy clips, gaming videos and celebrity gossip. Older people tend to watch news, health advice and documentary-style content, and they often prefer longer, calmer formats. Basically, the choice reflects their different lifestyles and interests.

♻️保留题｜动物的故事 🔗 机考练习

Describe a story that involves an animal which you learned from a movie or a book

You should say:

• What the movie or book is about
• When and where you watched it
• Are there any other animals in the movie or book
• And explain how you felt about this movie or book One interesting story about an animal that I learned from a movie is from the film “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale.” It is based on a true story and it is about a loyal dog named Hachiko and his owner. I watched this movie about one year ago at home on my laptop in the evening. I found it on a movie streaming platform because a friend recommended it to me. I decided to watch it because I like emotional and meaningful stories, especially ones involving animals. The story is about a professor who adopts a puppy, and the dog grows up to be very loyal. Every day, Hachiko goes with his owner to the train station and waits for him to come back from work. One day, the owner suddenly passes away at work, but the dog does not know this. Even after his owner’s death, Hachiko continues to wait at the train station every single day for many years. There are also some other minor characters in the movie, such as the professor’s family members and people at the train station, but the main focus is the relationship between the man and the dog. I felt this movie was extremely touching and emotional. It made me realize how loyal animals can be, especially dogs. I actually felt a bit sad while watching it, especially at the end, but at the same time I also felt warm because of the strong bond between the dog and his owner. It is a movie that I will probably never forget because it left a deep impression on me.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Is it necessary for children to learn things related to animals at school?

孩子们有必要在学校学习与动物相关的知识吗？

Yes, I think it’s necessary. Learning about animals teaches children empathy and respect for other living creatures, which is an important part of growing up. It also helps them understand nature and issues like endangered species. Schools are the natural place for this, because children can learn it in a systematic way from a young age.

2 Some parents think it is a waste of time for kids to learn about animals. What is your opinion?

有些家长认为孩子学动物知识是浪费时间，你怎么看？

I strongly disagree with that view. Animal-related knowledge is far from useless — biology is the foundation of medicine and agriculture, and early curiosity about animals often sparks an interest in science. Besides, observing animals develops patience and caring. Calling it a waste of time ignores how much children actually gain from it.

3 Why do people always use animals when telling stories to children?

为什么给孩子们讲故事时总是用到动物？

I think it’s because animals are naturally attractive to children — they’re cute, lively and easy for young minds to remember. Animals also let storytellers talk about human behaviour in a gentle, indirect way: a lazy rabbit or a brave dog can teach a lesson without sounding preachy. This tradition goes back to ancient fables, which were used for exactly the same reason.

4 Do people in your country usually keep pets?

你们国家的人通常养宠物吗？

Yes, keeping pets has become very popular in China, especially in cities. Dogs and cats are the most common, and many young people treat them almost like family members. Although pets take time and money to care for, owners say the companionship helps reduce stress and loneliness, which is why the trend keeps growing.

5 Some people think pets should be banned in cities. What is your view?

有些人认为城市里应该禁止养宠物，你怎么看？

I don’t think a total ban is the answer. Pets bring real joy and comfort to millions of people, especially elderly people who live alone. Instead of banning them, we should enforce rules more strictly — cleaning up after pets, keeping them on leashes in public and controlling noise. In that way people can enjoy pets while keeping cities clean and safe.

6 Is the zoo a good place to take young children?

动物园是带小孩子去的好地方吗？

Yes, on the whole it is. Children can see real animals that they’ve only met in books or cartoons, which is both exciting and educational. It also gives families a pleasant outdoor day out together. The main concern is animal welfare, so I’d support zoos where animals live in large, natural spaces rather than tiny cages.

7 What can children learn from the zoo?

孩子们能从动物园学到什么？

Children learn about different animals’ appearance, habits and natural environments, which makes their biology knowledge vivid and real. A zoo visit can also teach them respect for wildlife and awareness of endangered species. On top of that, it sharpens their curiosity, since children naturally ask endless questions about the animals they see.

8 What do you think are the benefits of animal stories?

你认为动物故事有什么好处？

Animal stories are both entertaining and educational for children. They pass on values like loyalty, courage and kindness through simple, memorable plots, and children accept these lessons more easily when they come from a cute animal character. Such stories also build children’s imagination and their interest in the natural world.

9 Some people think animals are very dirty. What is your opinion?

有些人认为动物很脏，你怎么看？

I think that’s a stereotype. Many animals actually clean themselves constantly, and a well-cared-for pet is no dirtier than a person who plays outdoors. If an animal looks dirty, it’s usually because the owner hasn’t taken proper care of it. So the real question is responsible pet ownership, not the animals themselves.

♻️保留题｜一直以来的追求

Describe an ambition you have had for a long time

You should say:

• What it was
• How you got the desire to want to achieve it
• What you have to do to achieve it
• And explain feel about it The ambition I have carried for a long time is to open a small bookshop with a coffee corner in my hometown. I first got this idea when I was about fifteen. My mother used to take me to an old second-hand bookshop every Sunday, and I still remember the owner letting me sit on a low stool and read comics for free. That warm, unhurried feeling never left me, and I promised myself that one day I would create the same kind of space for others. The desire grew stronger during university, when I noticed how few people read for pleasure anymore — everyone was glued to their phones. I wanted to prove that a quiet place full of real books could still attract people, especially young readers who had never known the joy of browsing shelves. To achieve this, I have been saving money from my part-time jobs for years, which is not always easy. I have also read widely about running a small business, and I visited several independent bookshops in other cities to learn how they survive. My plan is to keep my current job for another two or three years, build a clear budget, and only then open the shop on a small scale. Honestly, I still feel excited every time I picture it. I know the business will be risky and probably not very profitable at first, but this dream has shaped so many of my choices that I am sure it is worth pursuing.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kind of ambition do young people have and why?

年轻人通常有什么样的抱负？为什么？

Young people’s ambitions nowadays are often connected to career and personal development — things like landing a good job, becoming financially independent or travelling the world. I think the reason is that society is competitive and social media constantly shows successful examples, so young people feel they need clear goals early. That said, some simply want a balanced, happy life rather than fame or great wealth.

How should parents view their children’s pursuit of goals?

父母应如何看待孩子对目标的追求？

Parents should be supportive rather than controlling. It’s natural for them to worry about stability and to want their children to choose safe paths, but every generation has different dreams. I think the best approach is to listen, offer honest advice, and let children try things themselves, because pursuing one’s own goal teaches responsibility. As long as the goal isn’t harmful, parents should respect it.

人物类（20 张）

🆕新题｜做困难事情并成功的人

Describe a person you know who did something difficult and was successful

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What difficult thing this person did
• Why this person was successful
• And explain how you feel about this person I’d like to talk about my close friend, Leo, who accomplished something extraordinarily challenging: transitioning from a non-technical background in marketing to a professional software engineer within a single year. It was immensely difficult because he had zero prior coding experience, and he couldn’t afford to quit his job. To make it work, he literally had to burn the candle at both ends. For 12 straight months, he woke up at 5 AM every morning to study coding, and spent every weekend building real-world web applications. Facing a steep learning curve, he often felt completely overwhelmed, especially after receiving dozens of job rejection letters in a row. However, against all odds, his sheer determination and resilience paid off. He kept refining his portfolio, reaching out to mentors, and practicing coding algorithms until a reputable tech firm finally offered him a full-stack developer position. I deeply admire Leo because his success wasn’t due to luck, but to unwavering discipline. Witnessing the fruits of his labor showed me that with absolute focus, even the steepest obstacles can be overcome.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Is it difficult to do business in today’s world?

在当今世界做生意困难吗？

Yes, I think doing business today is quite challenging, mainly because of fierce competition and rapid technological changes. Fast-paced market: Technologies like AI and social media evolve constantly. If companies don’t adapt quickly, they can easily get left behind. Low barrier, high competition: While it is much easier to start an online shop now, it’s actually harder to stand out because customers have endless choices from all over the world. So overall, while starting a business has become easier, surviving and keeping it profitable in the long run is definitely harder than before.

How can companies help protect the environment?

公司如何帮助保护环境？

Well, I suppose there are a couple of major ways businesses can take action. First off, the most obvious step is switching to renewable energy—like using solar or wind power in their factories, which hugely lowers their carbon footprint. On top of that, companies can really make a difference with their packaging. If they replace single-use plastics with biodegradable materials, it stops tons of waste from ending up in landfills. And lastly, simply encouraging paperless operations or hybrid work can cut down on daily commuting emissions. So yeah, it’s all about making sustainability part of their everyday routine.

Does money equal success?

金钱就等于成功吗？

Well, to be honest, I don’t think money strictly equals success, even though a lot of people measure it that way. I mean, having money definitely brings financial security and freedom, which is a huge part of feeling successful. But at the end of the day, true success is much broader than a bank account. Things like good health, meaningful relationships, and doing work that brings you genuine fulfillment matter just as much, if not more. I’ve seen people who are extremely wealthy but completely burnt out or isolated, and I wouldn’t call that a successful life. So yeah, I’d say money is a super useful tool for achieving success, but it’s definitely not the whole picture.

🆕新题｜喜欢拍照的人

Describe a person in your life who really like taking photos

You should say:

• Who he or she is
• When and where does he or she take photos
• Why you think he or she likes taking photos
• And explain how you felt about him or she A person in my life who is absolutely obsessed with taking photos is my close friend, Leo. He snaps pictures virtually everywhere—whether we are traveling in a new city, grabbing coffee at a local cafe, or just strolling down the street. He always carries a compact camera around his neck wherever he goes. I think he loves photography because it is his primary way of capturing candid moments and preserving memories. For him, it is not about staged posing; it is about freezing genuine emotions and ordinary everyday life that others might miss. He truly has an incredible eye for detail. Overall, I really admire his passion. Although it can occasionally be a bit patience-testing when he stops every two minutes to get the perfect shot, I deeply appreciate having him around. Thanks to him, our friend group has a rich visual archive of all our best times together.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kinds of photos do people usually enjoy taking?

人们通常喜欢拍哪些类型的照片？

People generally enjoy taking photos that capture cherished memories or highlight visually striking experiences. Selfies and group portraits are universally popular for documenting special occasions with loved ones. Additionally, travel shots of iconic landmarks and daily food photography are widely favored, serving as ideal social media fodder to share candid moments with friends and followers.

Do you think it is acceptable to take photos anywhere?

你认为在任何地方拍照都是可以接受的吗?

No, certainly not. Photography should always have boundaries based on privacy, security, and etiquette. Taking pictures in restricted areas like military zones, courtrooms, or sacred religious sites can compromise security or show cultural disrespect. Additionally, snapping photos in private spaces without consent infringes on privacy, so people must exercise discretion wherever they go.

Some people don’t mind including strangers in their photos. What’s your view on this?

有些人在拍照时不介意把陌生人拍进去，对此你怎么看？

It depends on the context, but I believe people should be cautious. While having strangers accidentally in the background of public shots is usually unavoidable, intentionally capturing identifiable individuals without consent infringes on privacy. Especially when posting on social media, it’s vital to respect personal boundaries and seek permission to avoid making others feel uncomfortable.

Why do some people enjoy taking photos while others rarely do?

为什么有些人很喜欢拍照，而有些人却很少拍？

It comes down to personal motivation and how people experience moments. Photo enthusiasts love curating digital archives and freezing memories to look back on. Conversely, those who rarely take photos often prefer living in the moment without digital distractions, or they simply find constant snapping a hassle that disrupts genuine engagement.

Why do so many people choose to share their photos on social media?

为什么现在这么多人喜欢在社交平台分享照片？

Primarily, it stems from a desire for social connection and validation. Sharing photos allows people to broadcast life updates to friends and family instantly while receiving positive feedback. Additionally, platforms like Instagram serve as spaces for self-expression, enabling individuals to curate an idealized image of their lives and showcase their life highlights.

🆕新题｜一个很开心的人

Describe a happy person you know

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What traits or qualities this person has
• Why you think this person is so happy
• And explain how you feel about this person I’d like to talk about my next-door neighbor, Mr. Li, who is genuinely the happiest person I know. He’s a retired high school teacher in his late 60s, but he has the energy and optimism of someone half his age. When it comes to his qualities, he is incredibly warm, approachable, and simply radiates positivity. He’s a total glass-half-full kind of guy who greets everyone in our building with a broad, contagious smile. I think the main reason he’s always so joyful is that he’s deeply content with the simple things in life. Instead of chasing wealth or social status, he finds genuine pleasure in small daily routines—like tending to his balcony garden, cooking meals for his family, or having a casual chat with neighbors. On top of that, he has a remarkable ability to take things in stride. If something unexpected goes wrong, like bad weather ruining his morning walk, he never complains; he just chuckles and switches to reading a book instead. Personally, I feel deeply inspired and uplifted whenever I’m around him. In today’s fast-paced world where everyone is stressed out, his upbeat mindset is a constant reminder for me to stop overthinking and appreciate the present moment.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Do you talk about this person often？

你经常谈论这个人吗？

Yeah, I’d say I bring him up quite a bit, actually. Not in a preachy way, but whenever my friends or colleagues are going through a tough time or feeling overwhelmed by stress, I often share his story or his outlook on life. His mindset is just such a great example of how to stay grounded and positive, so talking about him is almost like passing along a bit of encouragement. Plus, he’s just a great topic of conversation because people always love hearing stories about someone who genuinely spreads good vibes.

What things make students happy at school?

学生为什么在学校感到开心？

I think most students are happiest when they feel accepted by their classmates and encouraged by their teachers. Free time also matters a lot — breaks, sports and club activities let them relax between lessons. And doing well in a subject they enjoy is a big source of happiness, though too much exam pressure can quickly cancel that out.

What about students who study hard but still don’t do well?

你怎么看有一些学生学习很努力单成绩不好？

That’s a painful situation, honestly. I think it usually comes down to study methods rather than effort — some students revise very passively, just reading their notes over and over, so the knowledge never really sticks. They may also be under so much pressure that anxiety blocks their memory during exams. The right response isn’t to push them harder but to help them study smarter.

Is it more important to like your job?

喜欢自己的工作重要吗？

Yes, I’d say liking your job is more important than many people admit. We spend a huge part of our waking lives at work, so doing something we enjoy gives us energy instead of draining it. A job you hate may pay well, but it can slowly wear you down both physically and mentally. Of course, liking a job doesn’t mean every day is fun — it just means the work itself feels meaningful.

Do people who don’t like their jobs feel they are wasting time?

如果人们不喜欢自己的工作是浪费时间吗？

Quite often, yes. When someone goes through the same motions every day without any real interest, the hours really do feel lost, and many people describe that heavy, empty feeling on Sunday nights. Some stay anyway because they need the salary or fear change. Over time, though, that feeling usually pushes people to switch careers or at least find meaning outside work.

🆕新题｜一个比你年长且让你佩服的人

Describe someone older than you whom you admire.

You should say:

• who this person is
• what he or she does
• what he or she is like and explain why you admire this person so much. I’d like to talk about a senior colleague of mine named David, who is in his late 50s and someone I deeply respect. He works as a senior manager at our company, overseeing digital projects and team operations. When it comes to his personality, David is remarkably down-to-earth and approachable. Despite having over 30 years of industry experience, he never talks down to younger staff or acts like a know-it-all. Instead, whenever someone runs into a problem, he listens patiently and offers constructive guidance without making them feel uncomfortable. I think what really sets him apart is his passion for learning. While many people his age tend to get set in their ways and just wait around for retirement, David is a true lifelong learner. In fact, recently he’s been actively picking up new AI tools and modern software to streamline our daily workflows, just to stay ahead of the curve. Honestly, the main reason I admire him so much is that he leads by example. In today’s fast-changing world, he proves that getting older doesn’t mean becoming rigid or outdated. Being around him constantly reminds me to stay curious, keep an open mind, and remain young at heart.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What can young people learn from older generations?

年轻人能从老一辈身上学到什么？

I think the main thing is resilience. Older generations have been through plenty of life’s ups and downs, so they know how to stay calm and take things in stride when stuff goes wrong. They can teach young people to look at the big picture instead of panicking over short-term setbacks.

What can older people learn from younger people?

老年人能从年轻人身上学到什么？

I’d say tech-savviness is definitely at the top of the list. Younger people grow up with technology, so they can easily teach older generations how to get the hang of digital tools and stay connected. Plus, youth can bring fresh perspectives, encouraging older people to keep an open mind toward modern trends.

Do you think there is a big generation gap between young and old people nowadays?

你认为现在年轻人和老年人之间有巨大的代沟吗？

Yeah, absolutely. The gap is probably wider than ever, mainly because of how fast technology has evolved. Young people live in a digital-first world, whereas older generations tend to value traditional ways of doing things. As a result, they often have completely different mindsets when it comes to careers and lifestyles, so they don’t always see eye to eye.

What roles do older people play in a traditional family?

在传统家庭里，老年人扮演什么角色？

In a traditional family, older people usually serve as the backbone of the household. First, they often take on the role of caregivers, helping out with child-rearing so younger parents can focus on work. On top of that, they pass down family traditions and offer wisdom, acting as a guiding light when the family faces major decisions.

How has the status or role of elderly people changed compared to the past?

与过去相比，老年人的地位或角色发生了怎样的变化？

In the past, seniors were seen as the ultimate authority figures and the main source of wisdom. Today, that’s shifted a bit because knowledge is so easily accessible online. Plus, with nuclear families becoming the norm, many older people live independently and focus more on their own post-retirement lifestyles rather than running the entire household.

🆕新题｜采访一个名人的经历

Describe an occasion when you interviewed a famous person

You should say:

• Who this person was
• Where and when the interview took place
• What you asked or talked about during the interview
• And explain how you felt about this experience I’d like to talk about the time I got to interview a well-known tech entrepreneur named Mark, who was visiting our campus to give a talk on innovation. This happened about two years ago when I was writing for our university’s student magazine. After his main presentation, my editor managed to secure a quick ten-minute exclusive Q&A session with him backstage. To be honest, I was completely starstruck and super nervous at first, so I had to take a deep breath to compose myself. During the interview, I asked him about how he handled major setbacks when starting his company, and what key advice he’d give to fresh graduates entering a competitive job market. Despite his massive success, Mark was remarkably down-to-earth. He gave really candid and practical answers rather than giving generic advice. My biggest takeaway from his response was that failure is just feedback, not the end of the world. Overall, it was a unforgettable experience that really boosted my confidence in communication.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kinds of people are usually interviewed in the news?

新闻里通常采访什么样的人？

Generally, it’s a mix of two main groups. On one hand, you have subject-matter experts and public officials who provide authoritative analysis on major events. On the other hand, journalists frequently talk to eyewitnesses or everyday citizens on the street to add a human touch and share authentic, first-hand accounts.

What qualities make a good interviewer?

好的采访者需要具备哪些素质？

I’d say active listening is at the top of the list. A great interviewer doesn’t just stick to a rigid script; they pay close attention and ask insightful follow-up questions on the spot. On top of that, being empathetic helps them build rapport quickly, making the guest feel comfortable enough to open up and share genuine stories.

How do interviewers usually prepare before speaking to a celebrity?

采访名人之前，记者通常会做哪些准备？

Mainly by doing thorough background research on the celebrity’s recent projects and past interviews so they can avoid asking cliché questions. They also usually liaise with publicists beforehand to establish clear boundaries and know which sensitive topics to steer clear of.

Do you think famous people have a right to privacy?

你认为名人有权拥有隐私吗？

Absolutely. While public figures do choose a life in the spotlight, privacy is still a fundamental human right. Constant intrusion by paparazzi or fans crosses a line and creates immense mental strain, so their personal lives outside of work should strictly be off-limits.

How does the media affect the lives of famous people?

媒体如何影响名人的生活？

It’s really a double-edged sword. On one hand, media exposure boosts their profile and unlocks lucrative commercial deals. On the flip side, living under the microscope creates immense mental pressure, as every tiny mistake gets blown out of proportion.

🆕新题｜擅长做手工的人

Describe a person who makes special objects (by hands or a technology)

You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you knew this person
• What does this person make
• And explain how you felt about this person I’d like to talk about a local artisan named Mr. Chen, who is a master leather craftsman. I first met him a couple of years ago when a friend took me to visit his cozy studio tucked away in the old town area. He specializes in creating bespoke leather goods, ranging from handcrafted wallets and key holders to custom backpacks. What makes his creations special is that everything is made entirely by hand using traditional saddle-stitching techniques. He hand-selects full-grain leather, then painstakingly cuts, stitches, and polishes every piece without using automated machinery. I have immense admiration for him. In an era dominated by fast consumerism and mass-produced items, his devotion to artisanal craftsmanship is truly inspiring. Every piece he makes carries exceptional durability and a genuine personal touch. Seeing his meticulous attention to detail really made me appreciate the value of slow, intentional handiwork.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Do children enjoy doing arts and crafts?

孩子们喜欢做手工或艺术活动吗？

Generally speaking, yes, most children naturally gravitate towards arts and crafts. It provides them with a creative outlet to express their boundless imagination without the pressure of rigid rules or right-or-wrong answers. Plus, the tactile, hands-on process of painting, cutting, or moulding is simply fun and deeply engaging for young minds.

Is creativity an innate trait or can it be cultivated over time?

创造力是天生的，还是可以后天培养的？

I believe it’s a combination of both. While some individuals may have a natural predisposition towards imaginative thinking, creativity isn’t a fixed trait. It can definitely be nurtured and honed through continuous learning, exposure to diverse ideas, and an environment that encourages experimentation. Without proper cultivation, even innate talent can wither away over time.

Should all children take art classes?

所有孩子都应该上艺术课吗？

Yes, absolutely. Art education isn’t just about training future artists; it plays a vital role in holistic development. Engaging in the arts fosters lateral thinking, emotional expression, and problem-solving skills that benefit children across all academic subjects. In a heavily exam-oriented system, art classes provide a well-rounded curriculum and an essential outlet for self-expression.

What impact does artistic and cultural development have on society?

艺术和文化发展对社会有什么影响？

Artistic and cultural development serves as a vital anchor for any thriving society. On a social level, it fosters social cohesion and a shared sense of cultural identity, bringing diverse communities together. Economically, a vibrant arts scene drives tourism and boosts the creative industries. Most importantly, exposure to art encourages empathy and critical reflection, helping a society challenge outdated norms and evolve gracefully.

🆕新题｜见了一面却想继续了解的人

Describe a person you only met once recently and want to know more about

You should say:

• Who he or she is
• When you met him or her
• Why you want to know more about him or her
• And explain how you feel about hime or her I’d like to talk about a local café owner named Leo, whom I bumped into just a couple of weeks ago at a weekend coffee festival in my city. Leo was running a small booth showcasing hand-brewed specialty coffee. What immediately caught my attention was his incredible passion and expertise. Unlike typical vendors who just hand you a cup, he took the time to explain the entire journey of the beans—from small sustainable farms to his local micro-roastery. He even walked me through how subtle tweaks in water temperature could completely transform the flavor profile. The main reason I’d love to know more about him is his captivating career journey. During our brief chat, he mentioned that he used to be a corporate software engineer but quit his high-paying job to pursue his lifelong dream of opening an artisanal café. I find that transition fascinating because it takes immense courage to step out of one’s comfort zone like that. Overall, I feel truly inspired and intrigued by him. He radiates this vibrant energy and authenticity that is quite rare nowadays. I’d really love to sit down with him again over a cup of coffee to learn more about how he navigated that career pivot and what drives his entrepreneurial spirit.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What can we do to leave a good impression on people we meet for the first time?

第一次见面时，我们怎样才能给别人留下好印象？

To leave a great first impression, non-verbal cues are essential. Offering a warm smile, maintaining confident eye contact, and showing open body language immediately signal approachability. Additionally, being an active listener—asking engaging questions rather than dominating the conversation—makes others feel genuinely valued.

What should we not talk about when we meet a person for the first time?

第一次见面时不应该谈论什么？

It’s best to steer clear of controversial subjects like politics, religion, and personal finances. Probing into private matters—such as relationship status or income—can come across as invasive and create awkward tension during a first encounter.

How do people make friends in China?

在中国，人们是怎样交朋友的？

In China, people primarily build friendships through shared environments like schools or workplaces, where daily routines foster trust. Additionally, interest-based communities—such as sports clubs or hobby groups—and digital platforms like WeChat or Xiaohongshu make it easy to connect with like-minded people. Introductions via mutual acquaintances also remain a traditional, reliable way to expand one’s social circle.

On what occasions do people like to make friends?

人们通常喜欢在什么场合交朋友？

People are generally most open to making friends during major life transitions, such as entering university or starting a new job, where everyone is actively seeking a sense of belonging. Social gatherings—like parties, workshops, or group travel—also create relaxed environments where shared experiences naturally spark conversations and foster new connections.

Is it important to have the same hobbies and interests when making friends?

交朋友时兴趣相投重要吗？

While shared interests definitely serve as an icebreaker and make initial interactions smoother, they aren’t strictly necessary for a deep friendship. Common hobbies give you easy activities to share, but lasting bonds depend far more on shared core values, mutual respect, and emotional support. In fact, having friends with different passions can actually broaden your horizons and introduce you to new perspectives.

What qualities make true friends?

真正的朋友具备哪些品质？

True friendship is primarily anchored in unwavering loyalty and empathy. A genuine friend offers unconditional support not just during smooth sailing, but especially through thick and thin. Beyond that, high levels of mutual trust and transparency are essential—being able to be completely vulnerable without fear of judgment is ultimately what sets a true friend apart from a casual acquaintance.

🆕新题｜喜欢历史的人

Describe a person you know who is interested in history

You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know this person
• What kind of history this person is interested in And explain why this person likes history. I’d like to talk about my maternal grandfather, an insatiable history buff whose passion for the past has been a constant inspiration to me. Having grown up around him, I’ve witnessed his unwavering fascination with history for as long as I can remember. His home is essentially a mini-library packed with dense historical chronicles, maps, and biographical texts. While he enjoys world history broadly, he is particularly captivated by ancient civilizations and the socio-political shifts during the Han and Tang dynasties, as well as European medieval history. As for why he is so enamored with history, he doesn’t view it as a dry collection of dates and names, but rather as a living, breathing tapestry of human nature. He firmly believes that the past is a vast repository of human wisdom and that modern geopolitical conflicts are simply repetitions of historical precedents. For him, studying history offers the lessons of hindsight, allowing one to understand the underlying motives behind human actions and navigate the complexities of the present with greater perspective.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Do you like learning about history?

你喜欢学习历史吗?

Absolutely, I’m deeply fascinated by history. Rather than viewing it as a dry chronicle of dates and events, I see it as a captivating narrative of human evolution. Studying the past provides invaluable perspective on contemporary geopolitics and societal structures, allowing us to trace the root causes of modern issues and appreciate how historical precedents continue to shape our present reality.

Do many students enjoy learning history at school?

很多学生喜欢在学校学习历史吗?

It’s quite a polarizing subject. Unfortunately, many students find history tedious when it’s reduced to rote memorization of dates, facts, and key figures purely for standardized testing. However, when educators pivot from dry facts to an interactive narrative—utilizing storytelling, primary sources, or digital reenactments—student engagement skyrockets. Ultimately, whether students enjoy history hinges heavily on the pedagogical approach rather than the subject matter itself.

Should children start learning history from a young age?

孩子应该从小开始学习历史吗?

Unquestionably. Introducing history early helps children develop a foundational sense of cultural identity and moral empathy through age-appropriate storytelling. Rather than overwhelming them with complex geopolitical analysis, early history education can focus on local heritage, folklore, and key figures, which ignites curiosity and nurtures critical thinking. Ultimately, learning history early helps young minds contextualize their surroundings and understand how modern society came to be.

At what age should children start learning history?

孩子应该从多大开始学习历史?

Children should ideally be introduced to history around early primary school age—roughly six or seven years old. At this stage, learning shouldn’t revolve around memorizing rigid timelines or dates, but rather formative storytelling centered on family heritage, local traditions, and historical fables. This early exposure fosters chronological awareness and moral empathy in a developmentally appropriate manner. As children reach early adolescence—around eleven or twelve—the curriculum can naturally transition into formal historical inquiry, incorporating critical analysis, primary sources, and broader socio-political frameworks.

Who can teach children about history before they go toschool?

孩子上学之前,谁可以教他们历史?

Prior to formal schooling, primary caregivers—especially parents and grandparents—play the most pivotal role in introducing history. They pass down oral histories, personal anecdotes, and family heirlooms, transforming abstract concepts of the past into intimate, tangible stories. Beyond the immediate family, museum docents during early childhood visits, community storytellers, and creators of educational children’s media also act as key informal educators, using interactive picture books and animated fables to plant the early seeds of historical consciousness.

Do you think it is important to learn how people lived iin the past?

你认为了解过去的人是如何生活的重要吗?

Crucially so. Understanding everyday life in the past humanizes history, shifting the focus from abstract political timelines to the lived realities of ordinary citizens. Examining historical lifestyles provides a valuable comparative perspective on modern conveniences, fostering both gratitude and a deeper appreciation for time-tested human resourcefulness. Ultimately, studying how earlier generations adapted to their environments grounds us in our shared socio-cultural evolution and offers practical lessons in resilience that remain profoundly relevant today.

Should people learn ancient history before learning modern history?

人们在学习现代历史之前,应该先学习古代历史吗?

There is a compelling argument for establishing a foundation in ancient history first, as it provides the chronological blueprint needed to fully grasp modern events. Ancient civilizations laid the primordial foundations for legal frameworks, political philosophies, and urban infrastructure that contemporary societies still rely upon. Without understanding these root developments, analyzing modern history is like entering a theater midway through the film. That said, rather than adhering strictly to a rigid linear timeline, a thematic approach—connecting ancient precedents directly to modern global issues—is often far more effective at making history relevant.

🆕新题｜有条理的人

Describe a person you know who is well organized

You should say:

• Who this person is
• When you got to know this person
• Why he or she needs to be well organized
• And explain how you feel about this person I’d like to talk about my former project coordinator, Sarah, who is without a doubt the most meticulously structured individual I have ever worked with. I first met her about three years ago when we were co-leading a high-stakes, multi-departmental initiative. Right from the outset, her extraordinary capacity for organization was immediately apparent. Given the sheer complexity of her position, being organized isn’t merely a preference for Sarah—it is an absolute operational necessity. She is responsible for orchestrating complex workflows, aligning conflicting department schedules, and managing massive volumes of data under strict deadlines. Without a rigorous system to track these moving parts, the entire project would easily succumb to operational chaos and costly bottlenecks. To maintain efficiency, she employs time-blocking techniques, real-time tracking dashboards, and systematic prioritization frameworks. I hold a profound sense of admiration for Sarah. Observing her operate with such unwavering methodical discipline under intense pressure has been genuinely transformative for my own work habits. She radiates a sense of cognitive clarity that instills immense confidence in her team, proving that true organization is ultimately about optimizing efficiency and maintaining composure in demanding environments.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Why is it important for people to be well organized?

为什么有条理对人们很重要？

Being well organized is essential primarily because it optimizes cognitive efficiency and mitigates psychological stress. In an information-dense world, structured routines help individuals streamline daily workflows, minimizing decision fatigue and preventing costly oversights. Furthermore, systematically managing time fosters proactive adaptability, enabling people to navigate unexpected disruptions with composure. Ultimately, personal organization serves as the bedrock of productivity and sustained mental clarity.

Do you think children need to be well organized?

你认为孩子需要有条理？

Absolutely. Developing organizational skills early is crucial for fostering self-regulation and academic autonomy. When children learn to structure their routines and prioritize tasks, it strengthens their executive functioning skills, which prevents anxiety and cognitive clutter. Rather than imposing rigid perfectionism, encouraging basic structure instills a sense of personal accountability, equipping young minds to navigate the increasing complexities of adolescence and formal education.

Should parents teach their children to be well organized?

家长需要教孩子有条理吗？

Indubitably. Parents serve as the primary architects of a child’s foundational habits through behavioral modeling and structured routines. By providing gentle scaffolding—such as co-creating daily schedules or setting up organized study environments—parents help children internalize order without feeling stifled. However, the ultimate goal should be to foster an internal locus of control rather than resorting to overbearing micromanagement. Teaching organization early equips children with essential life skills that enable a smooth transition into independent adulthood.

Are well-organized children more likely to be successful?

有条理的孩子会更成功吗？

Statistically and developmentally, yes. Personal organization directly strengthens executive functioning, enabling children to manage academic workloads efficiently while cultivating grit and self-discipline. This structured mindset minimizes cognitive fatigue and fosters a proactive orientation toward complex challenges. While creative adaptability and emotional intelligence are equally vital, strong organizational habits serve as a powerful catalyst for long-term achievement in both academic and professional spheres.

Do employees need to be well organized?

老板需要有条理吗？

Unquestionably. In modern professional settings, organization is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and mitigating workplace burnout. Organized employees excel at task prioritization and workflow management, ensuring strict deadlines are met without compromising quality. Furthermore, personal organization minimizes friction in cross-functional collaboration, as structured documentation and clear systems allow team members to seamlessly align efforts. Ultimately, it transforms raw individual talent into sustained professional execution.

And what about managers？Do they need to be well organized too?

管理者呢？他们需要有条理吗？

For managers, being well organized is not merely beneficial—it is a critical prerequisite for effective leadership. Unlike individual contributors who manage personal workloads, managers oversee resource allocation, cross-departmental alignment, and macro-level strategy. A disorganized manager inevitably creates systemic bottlenecks, leading to operational drag and heightened anxiety across the team. Conversely, a systematically structured leader establishes clear priorities and transparent workflows, which fosters psychological safety and ensures that high-level corporate objectives translate smoothly into actionable outcomes.

What can people do to become more organized?

人们如何变得更有条理？

To cultivate better organization, individuals should implement systemic behavioral frameworks rather than relying solely on willpower. First, leveraging externalized cognitive systems—such as digital planners or task management software—enables cognitive offloading, freeing up critical mental bandwidth. Second, applying ruthless prioritization frameworks ensures energy is directed toward high-impact objectives rather than mere urgency. Finally, optimizing one’s physical and digital environments through friction reduction renders order a seamless default habit rather than an exhausting daily effort.

🆕新题｜本地名人

Describe a famous person in your local area

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What he or she has done
• Why he or she is popular
• And explain how you feel about this person A prominent figure in my local community is a visionary educator and philanthropist who has earned widespread recognition for pioneering transformative educational equity initiatives within our municipality. Rather than acquiring renown through conventional media channels, this individual established a non-profit foundation dedicated to mitigating educational disparities in underprivileged districts. By constructing state-of-the-art community learning hubs and mobilizing philanthropic capital for merit-based scholarships, they have directly facilitated upward socioeconomic mobility for thousands of local youth. Their widespread popularity is rooted in a rare synthesis of altruistic leadership and tangible civic impact. In a culture often fixated on transient digital celebrity, this person commands profound authority because their efforts directly address structural inequalities through sustainable, community-driven interventions. Subjectively, I view this individual with immense intellectual and moral admiration. Their work serves as a powerful catalyst for prosocial motivation, proving that localized civic empowerment can yield substantial long-term societal dividends. They embody the archetype of a transformational leader who successfully translates individual capacity into collective flourishing.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Is it always good to be a popular student at school?

在学校里成为风云学生是好事吗？

Not inherently. While high sociometric status confers immediate social capital, it simultaneously exposes students to intense conformity pressure and hyper-visibility, frequently inducing severe evaluation anxiety.

Why are some students popular?

为什么有些学生更受欢迎？

Student popularity primarily stems from high interpersonal intelligence, strong prosocial competence, and strategic impression management, which allow individuals to accumulate substantial social capital within peer networks.

Why do people like local celebrities?

为什么人们喜欢本人名人？

Affection for local celebrities stems from spatial proximity and cultural resonance, which foster a heightened sense of perceived accessibility and strengthen parasocial affinity within a shared regional identity.

How can local celebrities influence their hometown?

本人名人如何影响他们的家乡？

Local celebrities drive economic revitalization through regional branding while acting as powerful catalysts for civic cohesion and prosocial modeling that elevate community pride.

🆕新题｜教你新技能的人

Describe a person who taught you a new skill

You should say:

• Who this person was
• What the skill was
• How this person taught you
• And explain how you felt about learning this skill I’d like to talk about a former senior colleague of mine named Alex, who taught me the fundamentals of digital design and data visualization during my early days at an educational tech firm. At the time, I had zero background in multimedia software, so facing complex editing suites felt like a monumental task. The skill involved taking raw educational data and transforming it into clear, engaging infographics and visual content for online learners. What made Alex such an exceptional mentor was his patient, hands-on methodology. Instead of overloading me with technical jargon, he demystified the process by breaking it down into digestible chunks. First, he had me shadow him while he worked, explaining the core principles of visual hierarchy and balance. Then, he transitioned into a scaffolded approach—giving me small, manageable tasks while offering immediate, constructive feedback. Crucially, he never micromanaged; he encouraged me to experiment and troubleshoot errors on my own, which really fostered my autonomy. Initially, I felt quite intimidated by the steep learning curve, constantly worrying that my output wouldn’t meet professional standards. However, as I mastered the software workflows and keyboard shortcuts, that anxiety morphed into a profound sense of empowerment and accomplishment. Learning this skill significantly expanded my professional toolkit and changed how I approach visual communication. Looking back, I’m deeply grateful for his guidance, as it gave me a creative edge that continues to serve me well.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Why should children learn new skills?

为什么孩子需要学新技能？

Learning new skills fosters cognitive adaptability and builds emotional resilience from a young age. Beyond boosting self-confidence, it sharpens their problem-solving capabilities, equipping children to navigate an increasingly unpredictable world.

Where can children learn new skills?

孩子可以在哪里学到新技能？

Children can acquire new skills in formal educational settings like schools and extracurricular clubs, as well as informal digital environments at home. While structured programs foster teamwork and discipline, interactive online platforms enable self-paced, interest-driven learning.

How can parents and teachers teach children new skills?

家长和老师如何教孩子新技能？

They can adopt an incremental scaffolding strategy, combining explicit role modeling with structured, hands-on practice. By breaking complex tasks into manageable milestones and providing constructive reinforcement, adults cultivate both practical mastery and self-efficacy in young learners.

How do adults learn a new skill?

成年人如何学新技能？

Adults learn best through goal-oriented, self-directed learning anchored in immediate practical application. Unlike children, adult learners actively draw upon prior experience, relying on structured problem-solving, deliberate practice, and real-world execution to achieve functional competence.

What are the differences between learning from a teacher and learning by oneself?

向老师学习新能或自学有什么区别？

Learning from a teacher offers structured guidance and real-time feedback, which significantly streamlines the learning curve. In contrast, self-directed learning fosters unparalleled autonomy and critical problem-solving, though it relies heavily on personal discipline and trial and error.

Why is self-discipline important when learning a new skill?

当学习一个新技能时，自律为什么很重要？

Self-discipline is essential because skill acquisition requires consistent, deliberate practice over time. It empowers learners to push through the initial steep learning curve and overcome learning plateaus when initial motivation wanes, ultimately turning effort into lasting procedural mastery.

🆕新题｜一个成功的运动员

Describe a sportsperson from your country who did well in a sports event

You should say:

• Who this sportsperson is
• What the sports event was
• What he/she did in the event
• And explain why you think he/she did so well in it When it comes to a sportsperson who achieved something extraordinary, the first person that comes to mind is Zheng Qinwen, a phenomenal Chinese tennis player who made history at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. She competed in the Women’s Singles Tennis tournament held at the iconic Roland Garros clay courts. Going into the event, the competition was fierce, featuring world-class players like Iga Swiatek, who had dominated clay-court tennis for years. During the tournament, Qinwen delivered a series of masterclass performances. In the earlier rounds, she endured grueling back-to-back three-hour matches under scorching heat, displaying unbelievable stamina and resilience. Her defining moment came in the semifinals, where she pulled off a massive upset by defeating the world No. 1, Swiatek, in straight sets. She then went on to win the final with remarkable composure, capturing China’s—and Asia’s—first-ever Olympic gold medal in singles tennis.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What are the most popular sports in your country?

你们国家最受欢迎的运动员是谁？

Table tennis and badminton remain nationwide favorites due to high accessibility, while basketball dominates among the youth as a major recreational and spectator sport. Recently, distance running has also seen an unprecedented surge.

What is the second most popular sport in your country?

第二受欢迎的呢？

In China, basketball is widely considered the second most popular sport after table tennis. It boasts a massive youth following, supported by accessible community courts and the widespread influence of major international leagues.

Should children learn many different sports?

儿童应该学习不同的运动吗？

Yes, early diversification is far better than early specialization. Playing various sports builds well-rounded motor skills, minimizes the risk of repetitive overuse injuries, and prevents athletic burnout. It also exposes children to different team and individual dynamics, helping them discover their natural aptitudes before committing to a single discipline later in life.

What can children learn from doing sports?

儿童能从运动中学习到什么吗？

Children learn essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Sports teach them how to collaborate effectively toward a shared goal and gracefully bounce back from failure.

What skills does a successful sportsperson need?

一个成功的运动员应该有哪些技能？

A successful athlete needs exceptional physical mastery, high tactical intelligence, and unwavering mental resilience. Beyond technical proficiency, they must possess the composure required to perform consistently under extreme pressure.

How is technology used in sports?

科技如何改变运动？

Technology is primarily used to enhance performance analytics, optimize recovery, and ensure officiating precision. Wearable sensors track real-time biometric data for training adjustments, while advanced video systems like Hawk-Eye minimize human error during critical calls.

🆕新题｜一个拥有健康作息与习惯的人

Describe a person you know who has healthy habits and a regular daily routine

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What his or her daily routine is
• What healthy habits he or she has
• And explain why you think his or her lifestyle is healthy I’d like to talk about my cousin, who sticks to really healthy living habits. He gets up at around seven every morning, even on weekends. He never stays up late. In the morning, he usually does some exercise, like jogging for half an hour. For meals, he prefers fresh vegetables and fruit, and he seldom eats fast food or junk snacks. He drinks plenty of water every day and rarely drinks sugary drinks. Besides physical health, he also pays attention to mental rest. He puts down his phone an hour before bedtime, so he can sleep well. I really admire his lifestyle. Many people around us stay up late and eat take‑out all the time. His regular routine helps him stay energetic and keep in good shape. That is why I think his living habits are fantastic.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Are health‑oriented communities important?

以健康为导向的社区重要吗？

Yes, quite important. When an area has clean parks, safe cycle paths and fresh food markets, residents find it much easier to stay active and eat well. Such communities also reduce illness, which takes pressure off hospitals and families alike. In that sense, a health-oriented environment shapes people’s habits more than we realise.

Can healthy communities give people a sense of belonging?

健康的社区能给人们归属感吗？

Definitely. When neighbours exercise together in a park or join the same running group, they naturally get to know each other, and that shared routine builds a real sense of community. People feel they belong when they use the same public spaces and care about them together. So health activities strengthen social bonds as well as bodies.

Do governments play a role in building healthy communities?

政府在建设健康社区中发挥什么作用？

Yes, a very big one. Governments decide where to build parks and sports facilities, and they fund public services like healthcare and clean water. They can also pass supportive policies, such as limiting junk food advertising near schools or encouraging cycling. Without government support, individual efforts alone cannot create a truly healthy community.

Do you think young people have healthier lifestyles than old people?

你认为年轻人的生活方式比老年人更健康吗？

In some ways yes, in some ways no. Young people are usually more active and more aware of nutrition, but they also stay up late, stare at screens and eat a lot of takeaway food. Older people exercise less, yet they often keep more regular routines and eat simpler home-cooked meals. So neither group is clearly healthier — each has its own bad habits.

What unhealthy habits are common among teenagers?

青少年中常见的不健康习惯有哪些？

Staying up late is probably the most common one — many teenagers sleep with their phones and lose hours of rest every night. Unhealthy eating is another big problem, like skipping breakfast and relying on sugary drinks or instant noodles. On top of that, they sit for long periods and rarely exercise, which leads to weak eyesight and poor fitness.

🆕新题｜一个受欢迎的人

Describe a person who is very popular

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What he or she does
• How you feel about the fact that he or she is popular
• And explain why you think he or she is popular I’d like to talk about my college classmate Leo, who is really popular among our classmates. He is a warm‑hearted young man. He is always ready to give others a hand. For example, if someone struggles with schoolwork, he will patiently explain difficult points. Besides, he has a good sense of humour. He often tells light‑hearted stories to cheer people up when they feel stressed. He also takes part in group activities and respects everyone around him. Personally, I admire that he can get on well with so many people. I am a quiet person myself, so I do not aim to be that popular. Even so, I think his popularity is well‑deserved. The main reason he is popular is that he treats people sincerely. He does not pretend to be nice just to win favour. Most people enjoy staying with someone genuine and easy‑going, and that is exactly what he is like.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kind of children do you think are popular at school?

你认为学校里什么样的孩子比较受欢迎？

Well, usually kids who are outgoing, humorous and friendly tend to be popular. They are good at communicating and willing to play with classmates. Also, students who are good at sports or schoolwork can easily draw other kids’ attention.

Do you think popular children should help others?

你认为受欢迎的孩子应该帮助别人吗？

I think it is a good quality if they are willing to offer help. They have more influence among peers, so their kindness can inspire other students. That said, they are not obliged to help everyone all the time. Besides, I’m actually an introvert, so I never aimed to be super‑popular at school.

In some countries, people like Elon Musk, who were introverted and unpopular in childhood, tend to achieve success. Why is that?

在一些国家，像埃隆·马斯克这样童年时内向、不受欢迎的人长大后往往很成功，这是为什么？

I suppose introverted kids spend less time on socialising. Instead, they focus deeply on their own interests and ideas. They are not distracted by peer pressure, so they can devote plenty of energy to what they really care about. That may explain why some of them become successful later in life.

Do you think being popular is a good thing in a company?

你认为在公司里受欢迎是好事吗？

It can be beneficial to some extent. Popular employees get along well with colleagues, which makes teamwork smoother. However, being too focused on being liked may distract people from their actual work performance.

Is it a good thing for a boss to be popular?

老板受欢迎是好事吗？

Popular bosses can motivate their staff and create a pleasant working atmosphere. Nevertheless, a boss’s priority is to make sensible decisions for the company. Sometimes tough but necessary decisions may make them less popular, yet they are still good leaders.

What’s your opinion about popular people?

你对受欢迎的人有什么看法？

Popular people generally possess great social skills and can build connections easily. Still, popularity does not equal perfection. Some people gain popularity by following others, while quiet people can also be capable and valuable, even if they are not well‑liked by everyone.

♻️保留题｜想从事医疗行业的人 🔗 机考练习

Describe someone you know who would like to work in the medical field.

You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know this person
• When he or she started to want to work in this field
• Why he or she wants to work in the medical field And explain how you feel about his or her career choice. One person I know who would like to work in the medical field is my cousin Lily. She is currently a university student majoring in biology, and she hopes to become a pediatrician in the future. I’ve known her all my life because we grew up together and our families are quite close. Even though we now live in different cities, we still talk regularly online and sometimes meet during holidays. She first became interested in the medical field when she was in high school. At that time, her grandmother became seriously ill and had to stay in hospital for several weeks. During that period, Lily was deeply impressed by the doctors and nurses who took care of her grandmother. She often told me that the medical staff were not only professional, but also patient and kind, which made a huge difference to the whole family. Another reason why she wants to become a doctor is that she genuinely enjoys helping people. She is a very caring and responsible person, and she has always been interested in science and human biology. In addition, she believes that working in the medical field is meaningful because doctors can save lives and improve people’s quality of life. Although she knows the job can be stressful and requires many years of study, she still feels passionate about it. Personally, I really admire her career choice. In my opinion, working in the medical field requires intelligence, patience, and a strong sense of responsibility, and not everyone can handle that pressure. I think Lily is suitable for this profession because she is calm, hardworking, and compassionate. I also feel that society will always need dedicated medical workers, so her future job will be both stable and valuable.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do you think it is easy or difficult to become a doctor?

你觉得当医生容易还是困难？

I think becoming a doctor is very difficult because it requires many years of study and training. Doctors also have a lot of responsibility since they deal with people’s health and lives every day. However, it’s still a rewarding career because they can help and save others.

2 Apart from having a lot of medical knowledge, what other qualities should doctors have?

除了丰富的医学知识，医生还应具备哪些品质？

Besides medical knowledge, doctors should be patient, responsible, and good at communication. They need to explain medical problems clearly and comfort patients who may feel nervous or stressed. I also think empathy is important because patients want to feel understood and cared for.

3 Why do some young people want to become doctors or nurses?

为什么一些年轻人想当医生或护士？

Some young people want to become doctors or nurses because they are motivated by a desire to help others and make a positive difference in people’s lives. Others are attracted by the respect and job stability that come with medical careers. In some cases, personal experiences, such as seeing family members receive good medical care, also inspire them to enter this field.

4 Do you think medical workers are respected in your country?

你认为医疗工作者在你们国家受到尊重吗？

Yes, I think medical workers are generally highly respected in my country. People appreciate their professionalism and the hard work they do, especially during emergencies or public health crises. However, in some situations, they may also face a lot of pressure and misunderstandings from patients or society.

♻️保留题｜童年好友 🔗 机考练习

Describe a friend from childhood who you remember very well.

You should say:

• Who the friend is
• How you met him/her
• What you used to do together
• And explain why you remember this childhood friend so well One childhood friend I remember very well is a boy named Kevin, who lived in my neighborhood when I was in primary school. I first met him when I was around seven years old. We were both playing in the same small park near our apartment complex. At that time, I was quite shy, but he was very outgoing and friendly. He came over and invited me to join a football game with a few other kids, and that’s how we started talking and became friends. We used to spend a lot of time together after school and during weekends. Most of the time, we played football, rode our bikes around the neighborhood, or collected small insects and explored nearby areas like it was an adventure. Sometimes we also did homework together, although we often got distracted and ended up playing instead. I remember him so well because he was my first close friend in childhood, and we shared many simple but happy moments. He also helped me become more confident and less shy around other children. Even though we eventually went to different schools and lost contact, I still clearly remember those days because they were carefree and full of fun.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do you still keep in touch with your friends from childhood? Why or why not?

你还和童年时的朋友保持联系吗？为什么？

Only with a couple of them, to be honest. We still chat online occasionally and meet when we’re both back in our hometown during holidays. As for the rest, we simply drifted apart after moving to different cities for school or work. It’s not that the friendship meant little — life just pulls people in different directions.

2 How important is childhood friendship to children?

童年友谊对孩子有多重要？

I’d say it’s very important. Childhood friends are often our first experience of trust and sharing, which teaches social skills that family alone cannot provide. Playing and even arguing with friends helps children learn cooperation and how to handle emotions. Many psychologists also believe such early bonds shape how we relate to people later in life.

3 What do you think of communicating via social media?

你如何看待通过社交媒体交流？

It’s convenient and keeps long-distance relationships alive, which is a clear advantage. But I also think it can be shallow — a hundred likes don’t replace a real conversation. And because messages carry no tone or body language, misunderstandings happen more easily online. So social media is a useful tool, but it should never fully replace face-to-face contact.

4 Do you think online communication through social media will replace face -to-face communication?

你认为社交媒体上的线上交流会取代面对面交流吗？

No, I don’t think it will completely. Text messages and video calls are great for staying in touch, but they can’t convey warmth the way real presence does — you can’t hug a friend through a screen. People still crave meeting in person, which is why we make time for family dinners and gatherings with friends. So online communication will keep growing, but face-to-face communication will always have its place.

5 What’s the difference between having younger friends and older friends?

交年轻朋友和年长朋友有什么区别？

Younger friends tend to be more energetic and spontaneous — they’re always up for new experiences, although they sometimes lack experience and judgment. Older friends, on the other hand, give steadier advice because they have been through more of life, and they help you see the bigger picture. Both are valuable: younger friends bring freshness, older friends bring wisdom.

6 Has technology changed people’s friendships? How?

科技改变人们的友谊了吗？如何改变的？

Yes, enormously. People now make friends online with people they have never met, based on shared hobbies instead of shared neighbourhoods. Keeping in touch has also become constant but lighter — quick messages and likes have replaced long phone calls and letters. That said, technology can weaken bonds too, because when a friendship is purely digital, it’s easier to let it fade quietly.

♻️保留题｜成功的企业家 🔗 机考练习

Describe a person you know about who runs a successful business

You should say:

• How do you know about this person
• What kind of business does he or she run
• How long has the business been running And explain why you think his or her business is successful. One person I know about who runs a successful business is the owner of a local chain of bubble tea shops in my city. I actually learned about him through social media and also from friends who often go there. His business mainly focuses on selling bubble tea and other casual drinks, but over time, he has expanded it into several branches across different parts of the city. The brand is quite popular among young people because of its modern style and consistent quality. As far as I know, the business has been running for around 6 to 7 years. It started as a single small shop near a university, and gradually grew into a well-known local brand. I think his business is successful for several reasons. First, he clearly understands his target customers, especially students and young professionals. Second, he pays attention to product quality and constantly introduces new flavors, which keeps customers interested. Finally, the branding and store design are very attractive, which makes people willing to share their experience on social media, helping the business grow even more.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Why do you think one can achieve success?

你认为一个人怎样才能取得成功？

I believe success comes from a combination of clear goals, hard work and the ability to learn from failure. Talent helps, of course, but it’s usually consistent effort over many years that separates successful people from the rest. Luck plays a part too, yet lucky people still need to be ready to seize the opportunity.

2 Why do people fail in starting a business?

为什么人们创业会失败？

The most common reasons are poor planning and running out of money. Many beginners underestimate costs or copy an idea that already faces too much competition. Others simply give up too early — they expect fast profits and lose heart when the first months are slow. So failure usually comes from a mix of weak preparation and low patience.

3 Is it difficult to start a business?

创业难吗？

Starting is easier than it used to be — registration is simple, and you can sell online from day one. But making the business survive is genuinely hard: you face fierce competition, rising costs and constant pressure. I’d say the real difficulty begins after the first excitement wears off.

4 Should the government support anyone who wants to start a business?

政府应该支持所有想创业的人吗？

I don’t think the government should support everyone equally, because not every business idea is viable. What it can do is provide fair conditions for all — simple procedures, tax relief for small firms, and accessible training or loans. Supporting everyone financially would waste public money, but removing barriers benefits the whole of society.

5 Should enterprises give back to society after making profits?

企业盈利之后应该回馈社会吗？

Yes, I strongly believe so. Successful companies grow partly because of society — skilled workers, public infrastructure and loyal customers — so returning some of the profit is only fair. This can mean paying taxes properly, protecting the environment or funding community projects. In the long run, a company that gives back also earns trust and a better reputation, so it’s good for business itself.

6 Many people think consumers have excessive demands. What is your opinion?

很多人认为消费者要求过高，你怎么看？

I partly agree. Some consumers do expect a lot for very little money, and businesses can receive bad reviews over tiny issues. But I think demanding quality is reasonable when people pay hard-earned money for a product. Companies that treat feedback as an attack usually fall behind, while those that take demands seriously keep improving.

7 Do you think companies should prioritize profits or consumers’ needs?

你认为企业应该优先考虑利润还是消费者的需求？

In the long run, consumers’ needs should come first, because a company that keeps customers satisfied will earn steady profits anyway. Prioritising short-term profit — cutting quality or hiding problems — quickly destroys a reputation. The smartest firms treat the two as the same thing: serve customers well, and profit follows naturally.

♻️保留题｜擅长学习和说外语的人 🔗 机考练习

Describe a person who good at learning and speaking new languages.

You should say:

• How you got to know him or her
• How he/she learns a new language
• What language he/she can speak
• And explain how you feel about him or her I’d like to talk about my university roommate, Jason, who is genuinely gifted at learning and speaking foreign languages. We first met on the first day of freshman year, when we were assigned to the same dormitory, and he quickly became one of my closest friends. Jason can speak four languages fluently: Mandarin, English, Japanese and Korean. English and Japanese he uses at work and in everyday conversation, while Korean he picked up more recently, mostly so he could watch shows and read novels in the original language. What impresses me most is the way he learns. He never forces himself to memorise long word lists. Instead, he watches dramas and anime first with subtitles and then without, and he repeats sentences out loud to copy the intonation. He also keeps a phone notebook of phrases he hears in daily life, and he practises with native speakers online almost every evening. His method sounds simple, but he is incredibly consistent — he spends about an hour a day on languages, and he has kept that up for years without fail. Honestly, I admire him a lot. He once told me he has no special talent, which I find hard to believe, but his example really changed my own approach to learning English. Watching him convinced me that progress comes from daily habits rather than sudden bursts of effort, and thanks to him I now study with much more patience.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Are there many people who can speak foreign languages in your country?

你们国家有很多会说外语的人吗？

Yes, quite a lot, especially among the younger generation. English is compulsory in schools, so most students study it for years, although speaking fluency varies greatly. In big cities you can also find people who speak Japanese, Korean or French, usually because of studying abroad, business or pop culture. Still, the overall proportion of truly fluent speakers remains fairly small.

2 Does speaking other languages help at work?

会说外语对工作有帮助吗？

Definitely, in today’s globalised economy. For example, employees who speak English can talk directly with foreign clients, which opens up more opportunities in trade or international companies. Knowing a second language also helps you understand foreign markets and documents without waiting for translations. So it’s a clear advantage when it comes to promotion and even higher pay.

3 Do people learn any languages other than English?

除了英语，人们还会学其他语言吗？

Yes, more and more people do. Japanese and Korean are popular because of anime, dramas and K-pop, and many learners are drawn by nearby cultures and travel. Others study German, French or Spanish for study-abroad plans or jobs in international companies. English remains the first choice, but interest in other languages is clearly growing.

4 What is it easier for children to learn new things than for adults?

为什么孩子比成年人更容易学会新东西？

I think the main reason is that children’s brains are still developing, so they absorb language and skills almost naturally, like sponges. They also have no fear of making mistakes — a child will happily say something wrong and try again, while adults often feel embarrassed. On top of that, children usually have more free time and fewer responsibilities, so they can practise without pressure.

5 How do people learn new things?

人们是怎样学习新事物的？

It depends on the person and the field. Some people learn best through courses and books, following a clear structure step by step. Others prefer hands-on practice — trying something, making mistakes and improving from feedback. In recent years, most people also combine online resources like video tutorials with real practice, because that is both fast and flexible.

♻️保留题｜做广告的名人 🔗 机考练习

Describe a piece of advertisement which is about a famous people

You should say:

• What the advertisement is about
• When and where you saw it
• What the famous person does in the advertisement
• And explain how you felt about it One advertisement involving a famous person that I remember clearly is a sports commercial featuring Cristiano Ronaldo. The advertisement was about a well-known sports brand promoting a new line of football shoes. I first saw it online on YouTube a few years ago, and later I also noticed it on TV during a sports program. It was widely shared on social media at that time, so it was hard to miss. In the advertisement, Cristiano Ronaldo is shown training very intensely on a football field. He is running, dribbling, and shooting with great speed and precision. The video also highlights his discipline and focus, showing him practicing even under difficult conditions like rain or strong wind. At the end, the camera focuses on the football shoes he is wearing, linking his performance to the product. I felt quite impressed when I watched it. The advertisement was not only visually exciting but also very motivating. Seeing a world-class athlete like Ronaldo working so hard made the product feel more powerful and trustworthy. At the same time, I also felt inspired because it reminded me that success comes from consistent effort and discipline. Overall, I think it was a very effective advertisement because it combined a famous celebrity with a strong message about hard work and performance.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 What’s the advantages and disadvantages of advertisements?

广告的优点和缺点是什么？

On the plus side, advertisements inform people about new products and services, which saves time when we shop, and they support free content like video platforms and newspapers. On the minus side, advertising is often exaggerated and pushes people to buy things they don’t need. Worse still, some ads are misleading and trick consumers, especially older people who trust them too easily.

2 Why do companies choose many celebrities to endorse advertisements?

为什么公司请很多名人代言广告？

Because celebrities attract attention and bring trust. When fans see their favourite star using a product, they are far more likely to buy it, and a well-liked face can make a new brand look credible overnight. It’s a shortcut to publicity, although hiring stars costs a fortune and carries the risk that a celebrity’s scandal will hurt the brand.

3 Where will you see advertisements?

你会在哪些地方看到广告？

Honestly, almost everywhere. On the street there are billboards and posters, and in lifts or on buses you see digital screens. Online, ads pop up in every app — in search results, short videos and even messages. Shopping malls and subways are full of them too, so advertising is basically impossible to escape these days.

4 Are advertisements useful?

广告有用吗？

Yes, they are, if we use them wisely. Ads inform us about new products, special offers and useful services, so we don’t have to search for everything ourselves. For example, learning about a discount through an ad can genuinely save money. The problem isn’t advertising itself, but being persuaded to buy things we don’t actually need.

5 Do you think online advertisements are better than offline ones?

你认为线上广告比线下广告更好吗？

In many ways, yes. Online ads can target the right people precisely — if you searched for running shoes, you’ll see shoe ads — and they’re cheaper for small businesses to run. They’re also easy to measure, update or stop at any time. However, offline ads still win when it comes to local reach and trust, so the two usually work best together.

♻️保留题｜喜欢种植物的人 🔗 机考练习

Describe a person who likes growing plants

You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know him/her
• What plants he/she grows
• And explain why he/she likes growing plants One person I know who really likes growing plants is my aunt. She is in her forties and works as a teacher, but gardening is her biggest hobby outside of work. I have known her since I was a child, and I often visit her home during holidays. What impressed me most is that her balcony looks almost like a small garden. She grows many kinds of plants, including flowers, herbs, and small vegetables such as tomatoes, chili peppers, and mint. She also has several indoor plants like orchids and succulents. According to her, growing plants helps her relax after a busy day at work. She enjoys watering them, changing the soil, and watching them slowly grow over time. She once told me that taking care of plants makes her feel peaceful and patient because it teaches her that good things take time. I think her hobby is very meaningful because nowadays many people spend too much time on their phones or computers, while gardening allows people to connect with nature. Every time I visit her home, I feel calm and refreshed because the environment is full of greenery and fresh air.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do you have a favourite type of plant to grow?

你有最喜欢种的植物类型吗？

Yes, I really like growing succulents. They’re small, cute and incredibly easy to care for, which suits a busy person like me. I keep several pots on my windowsill, and watching new leaves grow is surprisingly satisfying.

2 What preparations do you need for planting?

种植之前需要做哪些准备？

First you need the basics: suitable soil, a pot with drainage holes, and seeds or young plants. It’s also wise to check how much sunlight and water the plant needs, because different plants have totally different habits. If you plant outdoors, loosening the soil and adding fertiliser makes a big difference too.

3 Do you think planting is easy or difficult?

你觉得种植容易还是困难？

It depends on the plant and the person. Some plants, like succulents or herbs, are quite forgiving and easy for beginners, so planting can feel easy at first. But keeping plants alive long-term is harder than people expect — overwatering kills more plants than neglect. So I’d say starting is easy, while mastering it takes patience and experience.

4 What do you gain after solving problems in planting?

解决了种植中的问题之后你会收获什么？

First of all, a sense of achievement, because you’ve saved a living thing with your own effort. You also gain practical experience — next time you meet the same problem, you’ll know exactly what to do. And personally, I find that learning to wait and observe while planting has made me more patient in other areas of life.

5 Do Chinese people like gardening?

中国人喜欢园艺吗？

Yes, I think interest in gardening is growing quickly, especially among city dwellers. Many people grow flowers and vegetables on their balconies, and community gardens are becoming popular. Part of the reason is that urban life separates us from nature, so planting offers a relaxing escape and fresh food at the same time.

6 Why do people grow fruits and vegetables by themselves?

为什么人们自己种水果蔬菜？

The biggest reason is health — home-grown food is free of pesticides and known to be fresh, which is reassuring for families. Growing your own food is also much cheaper in the long run, especially as vegetable prices keep rising. And for many older people especially, gardening is simply a joyful habit that keeps them active.

7 Will more and more people grow plants in the future?

未来会有越来越多的人种植植物吗？

I believe so. As cities get denser, people feel a stronger need to reconnect with nature, and indoor planting fits that need perfectly. Technology will also help — smart pots and automatic watering systems make growing much easier for beginners. At the same time, rising awareness of food safety will push more families to grow their own vegetables.

8 Should students learn how to garden at school?

学校应该教学生园艺吗？

Yes, I think it’s a wonderful idea. Gardening teaches students where food comes from and encourages them to eat more vegetables, which is good for their health. It also develops patience, responsibility and cooperation when children care for plants together. And in an age of screens, a little outdoor work is exactly what many students need.

经历类（18 张）

🆕新题｜跟朋友度过的美好夜晚

Describe an enjoyable evening with your friends

You should say:

• When and where it was
• Who you spend the evening with
• What you did
• And explain why you think it was an enjoyable evening I’d like to talk about an unforgettable evening I spent with my close friends last autumn. It was at a cozy rooftop restaurant downtown, overlooking the city skyline right as the sun was setting. I was hanging out with three of my closest college friends. Because we’ve all been swamped with work lately, we hadn’t seen each other in months, so getting together felt extra special. We started by sharing a massive meal of local street food and craft drinks while catching up on the major milestones in our lives. Afterward, we didn’t just rush home; instead, we walked through a nearby night market, played a round of arcade games, and ended up sitting on a quiet park bench just reminiscing about our university days and laughing until our stomachs hurt. I think it was such an enjoyable evening because it offered a rare escape from the daily grind. In our fast-paced lives, it’s so easy to drift apart, but that night gave us a genuine sense of emotional connection and pure relaxation. It reminded me of how therapeutic it is to simply unplug and share good food and deep conversations with people who truly know you.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kinds of activities do people usually do with their friends?

人们通常和朋友一起做什么活动？

When hanging out with friends, people generally engage in recreational and social activities. For instance, younger generations often go out for meals, catch the latest movies, or play sports together to blow off steam. Others might prefer low-key gatherings like hosting a game night or grabbing a coffee to have a heart-to-heart, which helps strengthen their bond.

What activities do people usually do with their parents?

人们通常会陪父母一起做什么？

Activities with parents are typically more family-centric and routine-oriented. People often share home-cooked meals, run errands like grocery shopping, or go for gentle weekend walks in local parks. On special occasions, families might travel together or celebrate traditional holidays, which helps foster intergenerational bonding and cherish quality time.

Do young people and older people enjoy doing the same things in the evening?

年轻人和老年人在晚上喜欢做的事情一样吗？

Not usually, as their evening preferences are often in stark contrast due to differing energy levels and lifestyle priorities. Younger people tend to gravitate toward high-energy social activities, like dining out, attending concerts, or gaming late into the night to unwind. In contrast, older adults usually favor more sedentary and restorative routines, such as taking a quiet neighborhood stroll, reading, or spending quality time with family before turning in early.

Why is spending leisure time with friends important?

为什么和朋友共度休闲时间很重要？

Spending leisure time with friends is essential because it serves as a vital buffer against stress and supports overall mental well-being. Friends offer a safe space where individuals can vent without judgment and temporarily disconnect from academic or career pressures. Furthermore, engaging in shared social experiences fosters a deep sense of belonging, which helps prevent isolation and builds long-term emotional resilience.

How has the way people spend their evenings changed compared to the past?

与过去相比，人们度过晚上的方式发生了哪些变化？

In the past, evenings were largely centered around communal and low-tech activities, such as gathering around the family TV, reading, or dropping by a neighbor’s house for a chat. Today, however, evening routines have become far more individualized. People often spend their nights glued to screens—whether streaming content, gaming, or scrolling on social media. Furthermore, with the rise of remote work and continuous connectivity, the boundary between work and leisure has blurred, leading many to answer emails or work late into the night rather than fully disengaging.

🆕新题｜小时候学的新技能

Describe a new skill that you learned when you were a child

You should say What it is Who taught you How he/she taught you And explain how you felt about it A skill I learned as a child that really stands out was learning to ride a two-wheeled bicycle when I was about seven years old. It was my father who taught me. He was incredibly patient throughout the whole process. He started by removing the training wheels and taking me to a quiet paved park near our home. At first, he held onto the back of my seat while I pedaled, running alongside me to help me keep my balance. Whenever I wobbled or lost control, he’d gently steady the bike and encourage me to get right back on. The breakthrough happened one afternoon when he secretly let go without telling me. By the time I realized I was riding completely on my own, I had already covered quite a distance without falling. Initially, I felt quite intimidated and frustrated after a few minor scrapes. But once I mastered it, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and liberation. Learning to ride a bike gave me my very first taste of independence, and it remains one of my fondest childhood memories.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What skills can or should children learn before starting school?

孩子在开始上学前可以或应该学习哪些技能？

Before starting school, children should focus on foundational life skills and basic social interaction rather than heavy academics. Mastering simple tasks like using the restroom, sharing toys, and following basic instructions fosters self-reliance and emotional regulation, helping them adapt smoothly to a structured classroom.

can children learn new skills from their peers?

孩子们能从同龄人那里学到新技能吗？

Yes, absolutely. Children naturally learn through peer observation and play. Acquiring skills from friends often feels far less intimidating than formal adult instruction, which encourages kids to take risks and experiment more freely in a supportive environment.

What are the key differences between adult learning and child learning?

成人学习和儿童学习的主要区别是什么？

The main differences come down to motivation and mindset. Adults are usually goal-driven, learning for practical or career needs, but are often held back by a fear of making mistakes. In contrast, children act like blank slates—they absorb information intuitively through play and are far less self-conscious about failure.

Do you think children should learn practical skills, like cooking or cleaning?

你认为孩子应该学习做饭、打扫这类实用技能吗？

Yes, absolutely. Learning practical tasks like cooking and cleaning fosters independence and instills a strong sense of responsibility early on. Instead of relying entirely on parents, kids learn basic self-care, which builds confidence and ensures a much smoother transition into adulthood.

Is it better for children to learn skills at school or at home?

孩子在学校学技能好，还是在家里学好？

It really depends on the type of skill, as both settings complement each other. Schools are ideal for social interaction, teamwork, and structured academic learning. On the other hand, the home environment is perfect for practical life skills like cooking and personal hygiene, where children receive tailored guidance in a safe, supportive atmosphere.

🆕新题｜帮助他人的时刻

Describe a time you helped someone solve problems

You should say： When it was Who you helped What problem you solved And explain how you felt about this experience A memorable instance of helping someone occurred last semester when I assisted my close friend, who was struggling with a high-stakes university presentation. He had collected a vast amount of research but was completely overwhelmed, struggling to structure it into a coherent narrative. Sensing his growing anxiety, I stepped in. Over the course of an evening, we worked together to streamline the key data points and transform dense text into an engaging visual story. I also ran a couple of mock practice sessions to help him refine his delivery and manage his stage fright. Ultimately, his presentation was a resounding success. I felt immensely gratified knowing that a small investment of my time helped alleviate his stress and turn a nerve-wracking ordeal into a major confidence booster.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Do people like helping others?

人们喜欢帮助他人吗？

In general, yes. Helping others is deeply rooted in human nature and provides a strong sense of social cohesion and personal fulfillment. While fast-paced modern lifestyles can sometimes make people hesitant to step in, most individuals still feel a natural altruistic impulse when they see someone in genuine distress.

Is it important for parents to teach their children to help others?

父母教育孩子帮助他人重要吗？

Crucially so. Parents serve as a child’s primary role models, making early guidance essential for shaping foundational values. Cultivating a spirit of helpfulness at home fosters empathy and prosocial behavior, which helps children build healthy interpersonal relationships and ultimately grow into civic-minded individuals.

Is it enough if only parents teach their children?

光靠父母来教育孩子（帮助他人）就够了吗？

No, parental guidance alone is insufficient. While home is where values are first introduced, educational institutions and the wider community play an equally pivotal role. Children spend a massive chunk of their time around teachers and peers, who reinforce these lessons through collaborative projects and daily interactions. Ultimately, instilling a spirit of helpfulness requires a collective effort across all social circles.

What kinds of problems do people usually need help with in their daily lives?

人们日常生活中通常需要在哪些问题上获得帮助？

In daily life, people usually seek assistance with either practical tasks or emotional guidance. Practically, this often involves technical troubleshooting with modern gadgets or household maintenance that requires an extra set of hands. On an emotional level, people frequently turn to others for sound advice when navigating personal stress or making tough choices, relying on friends and family to provide a fresh perspective.

Do you think people today are less willing to help strangers compared to the past?

与过去相比，你认为今天的人们不太愿意帮助陌生人吗？

To some extent, yes. Modern fast-paced lifestyles and a heightened fear of scams have made people more cautious and guarded around strangers in public. However, I wouldn’t call it a total decline in empathy. While face-to-face assistance on the street might be rarer today, people simply express altruism differently now, often channeling support through digital platforms and online crowdfunding instead.

🆕新题｜遇到的有挑战性的技术问题

⚠️ 易混卡：与「遇到的技术上的问题」区分——本卡强调该问题“有挑战性、难以解决”，重点是一次攻克难题的技术经历。

Describe a challenging technological problem you faced

You should say:

• What the problem was
• When and where it happened
• How you solved it
• And explain why it was challenging I’d like to describe a major server overload and database latency issue I encountered two years ago while launching a new interactive feature on our educational testing platform. It happened right during peak traffic on a Sunday evening. Thousands of users logged in simultaneously to access timed test materials, causing the platform to crash and generating widespread error logs. The system became unresponsive, leaving users unable to submit their work. To solve it under intense pressure, I immediately conducted root-cause analysis to isolate the bottleneck. I discovered that unindexed queries were overloading the database. I temporarily throttled concurrent traffic, implemented an emergency caching layer, and deployed a hotfix to optimize database queries, restoring full stability within two hours. What made this particularly challenging was the high-stakes nature of the crisis. Every minute of downtime risked data loss and damaged user trust. Fixing it required not only deep technical troubleshooting, but also maintaining composure under pressure to execute a flawless solution while the clock was ticking.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Do you think people rely too much on technology?

你认为人们是否过于依赖科技？

Undoubtedly, society has reached a point where over-reliance on technology is becoming detrimental. While digital tools exponentially boost efficiency, they have also led to cognitive offloading, where people delegate basic problem-solving, navigation, and memory entirely to algorithms. This excessive dependence not only erodes critical thinking skills but also weakens real-world interpersonal dynamics, leaving us overly vulnerable whenever technical systems fail.

What kinds of technology do most people use today?

如今大多数人使用哪些科技产品？

Today, everyday life is overwhelmingly dominated by ubiquitous smart devices, cloud-integrated infrastructure, and pervasive artificial intelligence. Smartphones, wearables, and automated smart-home appliances form the backbone of personal communication and routine management. Concurrently, cloud services and AI algorithms operate seamlessly in the background, driving everything from personalized content curation and predictive navigation to remote collaboration tools.

Has technology made our lives easier or more complicated?

科技让我们的生活变得更简单还是更复杂？

It presents a classic technological paradox. On an operational level, technology has undeniably simplified existence through automation, instant connectivity, and frictionless logistics. However, it has simultaneously introduced unprecedented psychological complexity. The constant influx of data leads to information fatigue, while hyper-connectivity blurs the boundary between work and personal life, leaving many feeling perpetually tethered to their devices.

What can people do when they cannot solve a tech problem themselves?

当人们自己解决不了技术问题时，可以怎么做？

When individuals hit a wall with technical issues, they typically resort to a multi-tiered approach. First, they can tap into crowdsourced knowledge through specialized online forums and tech communities, where users aggregate diagnostic solutions for niche bugs. Alternatively, for critical software crashes or hardware failures, escalating the issue to certified IT specialists or vendor support is paramount. Increasingly, users also leverage AI-driven troubleshooting assistants to run automated diagnostics and isolate system anomalies before seeking human intervention.

Why do many people feel anxious when technology fails?

为什么很多人在科技出问题时感到焦虑？

Anxiety stems primarily from our deep structural reliance on digital systems for essential daily functions. When technology fails, it triggers an immediate perceived loss of control, leading to productivity paralysis and halting critical workflows. Furthermore, because digital tools serve as our primary portal for social and professional connectivity, an unexpected outage induces a sense of instant isolation, exposing the underlying fragility of our modern routines.

Should schools teach children how to solve common technology problems?

学校应该教孩子解决常见技术问题的方法吗？

Incontestably, yes. Basic technological troubleshooting should be treated as a core literacy skill alongside reading and mathematics. Teaching children how to debug minor software glitches or network issues fosters digital resilience and shifts them from passive consumers into empowered problem-solvers. Crucially, it cultivates systematic thinking early on, ensuring they aren’t rendered helpless when technological disruptions inevitably occur in their academic and professional lives.

🆕新题｜一个浪费时间的日常活动

Describe an activity you routinely do but is a waste of time

You should say:

• What the activity is
• How often you do it
• Why you think it is a waste of time
• And explain how you feel when you are doing it An activity I find myself routinely engaging in—despite fully recognizing its unproductive nature—is mindless doomscrolling through short-video algorithms on social media. I fall into this cognitive trap nearly every evening, typically during the wind-down period right before sleep or in brief pockets of downtime throughout the day. I consider this a profound waste of time because the content curated by these hyper-optimized algorithms yields negligible intrinsic value. Instead of offering genuine relaxation, it trapping users in a state of passive information consumption. It creates a superficial illusion of engagement while quietly exacerbating cognitive fatigue and displacing far more restorative habits, such as reading or reflective writing. While actively doing it, I experience a fleeting surge of low-effort gratification driven by intermittent dopamine feedback loops. However, this transient pleasure quickly dissolves into a lingering sense of frustrated agency and subconscious guilt, as I become acutely aware that my attention span is being systematically monetized at the expense of meaningful personal growth.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Why should people have a daily routine?

为什么人们会有日常活动？

A daily routine minimizes decision fatigue by converting routine tasks into automatic habits, thereby conserving cognitive bandwidth for high-value pursuits and fostering psychological stability.

How can people develop a daily routine?

人们如何开展日常活动？

Developing a daily routine relies on habit stacking—anchoring new behaviors to established triggers—and environmental friction reduction, which minimizes cognitive resistance and automates daily actions without exhausting finite willpower.

Why do some people dislike following a routine?

为什么人们不喜欢遵循日常活动？

Some individuals reject routines because strict predictability induces behavioral monotony and triggers psychological reactance against lost autonomy, stifling their intrinsic need for spontaneous adaptability.

Do you think a certain amount of stress is good for people?

你认为有一定的压力是好事吗？

Absolutely. Moderate stress—termed eustress—triggers optimal cognitive arousal, which sharpens focus, combats complacency, and fosters adaptive resilience without escalating into chronic fatigue.

What kinds of stress do elderly people often face?

老人通常如何面对压力？

Elderly individuals primarily face stress stemming from physiological degeneration, diminished functional autonomy, and acute social isolation following retirement and bereavement.

What activities can help people relax?

有什么活动可以帮助人们放松？

Activities promoting mindful immersion—such as nature exposure, physical exercise, or creative expression—induce parasympathetic activation, facilitating cognitive deceleration and nervous system recovery.

🆕新题｜等待特殊事件发生的经历

Describe a time when you had to wait for something special to happen

You should say:

• What this special thing was
• Why you had to wait for it
• What you did while you were waiting And explain how you felt about waiting for this special thing to happen A memorable occasion when I endured a prolonged period of anticipation was waiting for the final decision regarding my application for a highly competitive international educational fellowship. I had to wait nearly three months primarily due to the selection committee’s rigorous multi-tiered evaluation protocol. The committee was tasked with conducting exhaustive background verifications, peer reviews, and portfolio assessments across thousands of global applicants, rendering a swift outcome practically impossible. To mitigate the inevitable anticipatory anxiety during this hiatus, I deliberately employed structured distraction strategies. Rather than fixating on the outcome, I channeled my cognitive energy into demanding research projects and maintained a strict physical conditioning routine. By practicing this form of cognitive offloading, I insulated myself from the urge to obsessively refresh my inbox or succumb to unproductive speculation. Subjectively, the waiting period was a profound exercise in delayed gratification. Emotionally, I navigated a state of affective ambiguity—constantly oscillating between cautious optimism and underlying apprehension. However, enduring that prolonged suspense ultimately cultivated greater emotional resilience, making the final positive notification feel exponentially more rewarding and psychologically validating.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What are some everyday situations when people have to wait?

有什么每天都需要人们等待的事情？

Everyday waiting typically stems from transit bottlenecks during peak commutes, service-point friction in retail or healthcare environments, and digital latency when awaiting automated system processing or online queueing.

Why do many people really dislike waiting?

为什么很多人不喜欢等待？

Waiting triggers frustration because it imposes an unrecoverable opportunity cost while threatening an individual’s perceived agency, sharply conflicting with modern cultural conditioning toward instant gratification.

Do you think adults are better at waiting than children?

你认为成年人比儿童更擅长等待吗？

Undoubtedly. Adults possess fully matured prefrontal cortexes, enabling superior executive functioning and impulse control for delayed gratification, whereas children lack the cognitive architecture to process temporal delay rationally.

How do you feel when you have to wait for something?

当你必须等待时，你的心情是怎样的？

I experience a blend of temporal anxiety and cognitive friction caused by a perceived loss of agency, though I typically mitigate this discomfort through immediate cognitive reframing.

Are you usually a patient person?

你是一个有耐心的人吗？

Generally yes, as I leverage cognitive reframing to sustain high frustration tolerance, though unpredictable situational friction can occasionally strain my executive control.

Were you more or less patient when you were younger?

你年轻的时候比现在更耐心吗？

Significantly less patient. Younger age lacks neurobiological maturation- specifically regarding impulse control-whereas age fosters superior emotional regulation and a higher threshold for delayed gratification.

🆕新题｜听不感兴趣的话题

Describe a time when someone talked about something you were not interested in but you kept listening

You should say:

• Who the person was
• What he/she talked about
• Why you kept listening
• And explain how you felt about the experience A distinct instance that comes to mind involved a senior colleague during an informal networking retreat, who launched into an exhaustive, highly technical monologue regarding the micro-mechanics of cryptocurrency arbitrage algorithms—a domain entirely outside my professional domain and inherently unappealing to me. For nearly half an hour, he provided a granular breakdown of market inefficiencies, blockchain latency, and automated execution protocols. Despite my complete absence of intrinsic interest, I sustained visual contact and delivered deliberate micro-verbal affirmations to demonstrate attentiveness. My decision to remain engaged was primarily dictated by impression management and the maintenance of social cohesion. In professional dynamics, abruptly redirecting the narrative or signaling disinterest can inflict interpersonal friction and undermine professional rapport. I consciously reframed the situation as an exercise in empathic engagement, choosing to honor the speaker’s intellectual passion over my own immediate comfort. Subjectively, suppressing my restlessness required significant cognitive effort, resulting in temporary attentional depletion and a drain on my cognitive bandwidth. Navigating the conversation demanded continuous emotional regulation to mask my boredom under a facade of polite interest. Ultimately, while the subject matter remained thoroughly uninspiring, I viewed the encounter as a valuable test of interpersonal discipline and conversational tolerance.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kind of topics do young people like to talk about today?

现在的年轻人喜欢什么话题？

Younger generations predominantly gravitate toward discussions surrounding identity formation, career volatility, and algorithm-driven pop culture, using these conversations to navigate existential anxiety and seek peer validation in a hyper-connected environment.

What would happen if the listener didn`t listen carefully?

如果听众不认真听会发生什么？

Inattentive listening precipitates informational distortion and cognitive misalignment, ultimately triggering acute interpersonal friction and the gradual erosion of relational trust.

How can we tell if a listener is listening carefully?

怎样才能知道听众是否在认真听？

Careful listening is manifested through non-verbal postural alignment, sustained eye contact, and subtle paralinguistic cues, signaling genuine empathic attunement and active cognitive processing.

🆕新题｜好的购物服务

Describe a time when you received good service in a shop or store

You should say:

• Where the shop is
• When you went to the shop
• What service you received from the staff
• And explain how you felt about the service A memorable instance occurred last autumn at a specialized digital hardware retailer in the central commercial district. I visited the store experiencing considerable cognitive friction while attempting to configure an optimized workstation setup for complex data processing. Instead of encountering aggressive, profit-driven sales tactics, I was assisted by a specialist who exhibited remarkable empathic engagement. Rather than pushing high-margin inventory, they conducted a rigorous needs assessment, carefully diagnosing my technical constraints and recommending a streamlined, highly cost-effective hardware combination. What distinguished this encounter was the staff member’s authentic prosocial motivation. They voluntarily spent nearly an hour explaining system compatibility, resolving technical bottlenecks, and actively discouraging unnecessary expenditures. Subjectively, the experience immediately alleviated my initial decision fatigue and replaced technical anxiety with profound reassurance. This departure from purely transactional engagement significantly elevated my perceived service value and cultivated long-term brand loyalty, demonstrating that exceptional service relies on establishing trust rather than maximizing short-term monetization.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Why are shopping malls so popular in China?

为什么购物中心在中国很流行？

Shopping malls in China function as multi-functional third places that transcend traditional retail, fulfilling urban demands for experiential consumption, climate-controlled leisure, and social aggregation in high-density living environments.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of shopping in small shops?

在小店购物的利弊是什么？

The main advantage is relational engagement that fosters local social capital, while the primary disadvantage is a lack of economies of scale, leading to restricted inventory diversity and higher price premiums.

Why do some people not like shopping in small shops?

为什么有些人不喜欢在小商店购物？

Aversion to small shops usually stems from severe inventory constraints, higher price premiums, and the loss of transactional anonymity, which undermines consumer autonomy.

What are the differences between online shopping and in-store shopping?

线上购物与实体店购物有哪些区别？

Online retail optimizes for frictionless convenience and algorithmic efficiency, whereas in-store shopping provides immediate sensory gratification, embodied decision-making, and high-touch relational engagement.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of shopping online?

线上购物的利弊是什么？

Online shopping maximizes transactional efficiency and offers unbounded variety, yet it creates a total tactile deficit and exposes consumers to heightened impulse susceptibility driven by persuasive algorithms.

Can consumption drive economic growth?

消费能刺激经济增长吗？

Undoubtedly. Domestic consumption directly fuels aggregate demand, driving capital reinvestment and enterprise expansion while triggering a powerful macroeconomic multiplier effect that accelerates GDP growth.

🆕新题｜改变重要决定

⚠️ 易混卡：与「对结果开心的重要决定」（做出决定后对结果满意）及「重要的决定」（一般性重要决定）区分——本卡关键在于“改变主意”：先有原定决定，改变主意后做出新的决定。

Describe a situation where you changed your mind and made a significant decision

You should say:

• When you changed the decision
• What the original decision was
• Why you changed it
• And explain how you felt about the experience I’d like to talk about a time during my senior year of university when I made a major u-turn regarding my career path. Originally, my plan was entirely set in stone: I was going to pursue a traditional corporate job in accounting right after graduation. I had spent nearly three years preparing for professional qualification exams and building a resume tailored for finance firms. To me, it seemed like the most stable and conventional route to take. However, about six months before graduation, I had a complete change of heart. During a three-month internship at an accounting firm, I realized that crunching numbers day in and day out felt deeply monotonous and uninspiring. Around the same time, I got involved in a side project creating online educational content and digital learning tools. I quickly discovered that I had a genuine passion for ed-tech and interactive media. I found myself looking forward to working on digital projects until late at night, whereas my daytime internship felt like a chore. Recognizing that sticking to my original plan would likely lead to early burnout, I decided to pivot. I dropped my corporate applications and chose instead to focus entirely on building a career in the digital education sector. Initially, making this sudden shift was incredibly nerve-wracking. I felt a wave of anxiety about stepping off a well-paved path into uncharted territory, especially when comparing myself to peers who had already secured corporate offers. However, once I took that leap of faith, I felt an overwhelming sense of liberation and clarity. Looking back, changing my mind was one of the most empowering decisions I’ve ever made, as it allowed me to align my career with my true interests rather than societal expectations.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Should teachers listen to their students’ opinions?

教师应该倾听学生的看法吗？

Absolutely. Encouraging students to share their views fosters a collaborative learning environment and boosts overall engagement. Furthermore, it provides teachers with crucial feedback to tailor their pedagogy to meet students’ diverse needs.

Whose opinions do university students listen to?

大学生会听谁的观点？

Primarily, they rely on seasoned industry professionals for career guidance, and peers or digital influencers for daily lifestyle choices. While they respect academic authority, young adults tend to place far greater weight on relatable, real-world experience over purely theoretical advice.

What are the differences between China and the US in listening to opinions and making decisions?

中国和美国会听谁做决定？

Broadly speaking, decision-making in China is more consensus-driven and hierarchical, where deference to authority and collective harmony play a central role. In contrast, the US leans toward an individualistic and bottom-up approach, prioritizing open debate, personal autonomy, and swift individual execution.

Who has more influence on children, teachers or parents?

谁能更影响孩子，老师还是家长？

Parents arguably exert a more foundational influence, as they shape a child’s core values and emotional stability from infancy. However, teachers play an indispensable role in cultivating academic aptitude and social adaptability. Ultimately, parents lay the groundwork, while teachers build upon it.

Who do people share their ideas with more often?

人们通常跟谁分享观点？

Most people tend to confide in close peers or family members first, as high levels of mutual trust create a safe space for unfiltered brainstorming. However, for specialized or professional concepts, individuals increasingly turn to like-minded communities or colleagues for constructive feedback.

🆕新题｜庆祝派对

Describe a celebration party you went to

You should say:

• Where the party was
• Why there was a party
• What happened at the party
• And explain how you felt about this party I’d like to talk about the party we held for my grandmother’s seventieth birthday. It took place about a year ago, and we booked a private room in a restaurant near my home, because there were about twenty of us. The reason for the party was simple: my grandmother had just turned seventy, and the whole family wanted to celebrate this milestone together. It was also a good excuse for everyone to meet, because these days we only see each other two or three times a year. A lot happened at the party. We ordered a big table of food, and her favourite dishes were put right in front of her. After the meal, my cousins and I sang a birthday song and helped her cut a large cake. My uncle made a short speech, and we all laughed when my little nephew tried to copy him. At the end, we took a family photo, and my grandmother looked really happy the whole evening. I felt very warm and relaxed at this party. It reminded me that family gatherings are quite rare nowadays, because everyone is busy with work or study, so I really valued the time together. I was also glad to see my grandmother so cheerful. That is why the party stayed in my memory, and I hope we can organise something like it more often, not only for big birthdays.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

On what festivals or occasions do people usually have parties?

人们通常在什么节日或场合举办聚会？

People usually have parties on personal milestones, like birthdays, weddings and graduations, because these are happy events worth celebrating with others. National festivals are also common occasions, especially the Spring Festival or New Year’s Eve, when families get together for a big meal. Companies and schools often throw parties at the end of the year as well, so I’d say almost any happy event can become a reason for a party.

Is it better to have a party with friends or with family?

和朋友聚会好还是和家人聚会好？

I think it depends on the purpose of the party. Family parties are warmer and more formal, and they help relatives stay close, which is important in our culture. Parties with friends are usually more relaxed and fun, because we can play games, talk freely and stay up late. So both have their value, but I personally enjoy parties with friends a bit more.

Are there any dress requirements for parties?

参加聚会有什么着装要求吗？

It depends on the type of party. For formal occasions, like weddings or company dinners, people dress up, so men often wear suits and women wear dresses. But for casual parties with friends or family, most people just wear comfortable clothes, like T-shirts and jeans. So the general rule is: the more formal the occasion, the more careful you should be about your clothes.

Why do people hold family parties in your country?

在你们国家，人们为什么举办家庭聚会？

The main reason is to strengthen family bonds, because nowadays family members often live in different cities and rarely see one another. Special dates, like the Spring Festival or an elderly person’s birthday, give everyone a natural reason to come back home. Besides, older people love these occasions most, because seeing the whole family together makes them feel happy and proud.

Do people like to party indoors or outdoors?

人们喜欢在室内还是室外聚会？

I’d say most parties happen indoors, because it’s more convenient. You have tables, chairs and a kitchen, and you don’t have to worry about the weather or the noise. Restaurants and homes are the most common choices. Outdoor parties are popular too, but mainly among young people and only in good weather, like a picnic or a barbecue in a park.

Have there been more family celebrations in the past than today?

过去比现在有更多的家庭庆祝活动吗？

I think family members gathered more often in the past, but the celebrations were simpler. In the old days, relatives usually lived close to each other, so any festival or family event could bring everyone together without much planning. Today, people are busier and more scattered, but when a family does celebrate, it’s often bigger, like renting a restaurant room or booking a short trip for the whole family.

🆕新题｜对结果开心的重要决定

⚠️ 易混卡：与「改变重要决定」（先做决定后改变主意再做新决定）及「重要的决定」（一般性重要决定）区分——本卡关键在于“结果”：做出重要决定后对结果感到满意、开心。

Describe a time you made an important decision and were happy with the result

You should say:

• What the decision was
• Why you made the decision
• How easy it was for you to make the decision
• And explain why you were happy with the result The important decision I want to talk about is my choice to move to a big city for my first job after university. That was about three years ago. I had two job offers at that time: one from a small company in my hometown, and the other from a larger firm in Shanghai. I made this decision mainly because I wanted better opportunities. The company in Shanghai offered a clearer career path, higher pay, and the chance to learn from experienced people in my field. I also believed that living in a big city would push me to grow, because it is full of talented and hardworking people. To be honest, it was not an easy decision at all. I had never lived away from my family, and I was worried about the cost of living and whether I could handle the pressure alone. My parents preferred me to stay nearby, so I spent about two weeks thinking carefully and talking with friends before I finally made up my mind. In the end, I am very happy with the result. In the past few years, I have grown a lot, both in my career and as a person. I have made good friends, earned promotions, and learned to manage my own life. Looking back, I believe that decision gave me the confidence to face challenges, and I have never regretted it.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

How can we tell the difference between an important and a easy decision?

我们怎样区分一个重要决定和一个简单决定?

I think an important decision usually has long-term effects, so it changes your life in some way, like choosing a university, a job or a place to live. A small decision only affects your day briefly, like what to eat for lunch. Another sign is that important decisions are hard to reverse, so people spend much more time thinking about them.

Do you think it is a good idea to make a small decision every day?

你认为每天做一个小决定是个好主意吗?

Yes, I think it’s fine, because small decisions are part of normal life and we hardly notice them, like choosing clothes or ordering food. Actually, making small decisions daily can be good practice, because it trains you to compare options and accept the results. The problem only comes when people avoid big decisions, not when they make small ones.

What little decisions do people make every day?

人们每天会做哪些小决定?

People make lots of small decisions without even realising it, such as what to eat, what to wear, whether to take the bus or the metro, and what to watch or read. We also decide things like when to study and when to rest. Most of these are habits really, but each one is technically a choice.

What if people in a group have different opinions on a decision?

如果一个群体中的人对某个决定有不同意见,该怎么办?

I think the best way is to discuss the options openly and try to reach a compromise. Sometimes the group can vote, and sometimes it’s smarter to test both ideas on a small scale first. The leader should also listen carefully, because a decision that ignores everyone’s feelings usually fails in the end.

Do you think most of people’s decisions are made in their 20s?

你认为人的大多数决定都是在二十多岁的时候做出的吗？

To some extent, yes, because the 20s are full of life-changing choices, like which university to attend, which job to take, whether to go abroad and sometimes who to marry. These decisions shape the rest of your life. However, people keep making important decisions later too, like changing careers or moving to another city, so I wouldn’t say all decisions happen in the 20s.

Which is better, to make a decision quickly or slowly?

做决定快一点好还是慢一点好？

I think it depends on the decision. For small things, deciding quickly saves time and energy, because there is no need to overthink. But for big decisions, like studying abroad or buying a house, it’s wise to go slowly, because you need to collect information and consider the results. So the rule is: be quick with small matters, be patient with big ones.

🆕新题｜你不喜欢的短途旅行

Describe a short trip you often do but you do not like

You should say:

• Where you travel to
• How often you do this trip
• Why you need to do this trip
• And explain why you do not like this trip I’m going to talk about a short trip that I have to make quite often but really do not enjoy: the trip from my university city back to my hometown. The two places are about three hours apart by coach. I make this trip almost every weekend. The reason is that my grandmother lives alone in my hometown, while my parents work in another province, so I am the one who usually goes back to check on her, buy her food and medicine, and take her to the hospital when she has a check-up. I do not like this trip for several reasons. First, the coach is almost always crowded at the weekend, especially on Sunday evenings, when everyone is travelling back to work or school, and sometimes I have to stand for part of the journey. Second, the road passes through flat, boring countryside, so there is nothing interesting to look at. Most importantly, the trip takes up a large part of my weekend, and I always feel tired when I arrive, so by the time I return to the city, I am exhausted again. So even though I understand why I need to make this trip, it still feels like a tiring duty rather than a pleasant journey. I hope that in the future the high-speed railway will reach my hometown, because that would make the whole trip much faster and more comfortable.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What are the common ways that people travel?

人们通常用什么方式出行？

People travel by many different ways nowadays. For short distances, they walk, ride bikes, or take the bus and the metro, because those are cheap and convenient. For longer trips, many people take the high-speed train or fly, since those are fast and comfortable. Driving is also popular, especially for families, because it gives people more freedom.

What can happen when people travel at crowded times?

人们在出行高峰期旅行会发生什么？

When people travel at crowded times, like public holidays or rush hours, they usually face long queues, traffic jams and crowded stations. Tickets can also be hard to get, and everything costs more. Worst of all, the journey becomes very tiring, and some people arrive at their destination already exhausted and stressed.

What are the benefits of travelling abroad?

出国旅行有什么好处？

Travelling abroad opens your eyes to different cultures, food and lifestyles, which is a kind of real-life education. It also improves your language skills, because you have to speak and listen every day. And I think it makes people more open-minded, since you learn that other ways of living can work just as well as your own.

Why do people travel abroad?

人们为什么要出国旅行？

There are several reasons. Many people travel abroad for sightseeing, because they want to see famous landmarks and natural scenery that don’t exist at home. Others go for shopping or food, since some products are cheaper or better overseas. Some also travel to visit friends or relatives, or to experience festivals and events that are totally different from those in their own country.

Is there a short trip that you like?

有没有你喜欢的短途旅行？

Yes, I do enjoy some short trips. For example, I like going to the lake park outside my city with friends on a sunny day, because the fresh air and the green view help me relax. I also enjoy visiting museums or galleries in nearby cities when there is a new exhibition. I think the difference is that those trips are optional and relaxing, not routine and tiring.

♻️保留题｜朋友很久不回你消息的经历

Describe a time when your friend did not reply to your message for a long time

You should say:

• Who the friend was
• When it happened
• Why they did not reply to your message
• And explain how you felt about this experience I’d like to talk about a time when my best friend from high school did not reply to my messages for almost two weeks. This happened last winter, during our final year at university, and normally we chatted every few days and sent each other funny videos. At first, I did not think much of it, because I knew he was busy with his final-year project. But after about a week, I started to worry. I sent him several messages asking if he was okay, and I even called him once, but there was still no reply. I began to wonder whether I had said something to upset him. Later, I found out the real reason. He told me that he was preparing for a very important exam, and he had decided to put his phone away and only check it once a day, because he wanted to focus completely on his revision. He also said he was sorry for making me worry. When I learned the reason, I felt relieved, but I have to admit I felt a little hurt at the beginning. It was strange to be ignored by someone so close to me. However, after he explained everything, I understood, and I even felt proud of him for working so hard. This experience taught me that silence does not always mean a friendship is in trouble, and what really matters is that we talked openly in the end.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Do you prefer texting or calling?

你更喜欢发短信还是打电话？

I prefer texting most of the time, because it gives me time to think about what I want to say, and I can reply whenever I’m free. It’s also less awkward for short messages, like confirming a time or a place. But for serious topics, like a family problem or an apology, I think calling is better, because you can hear the tone and avoid misunderstandings.

How has the way people communicate changed?

人们的沟通方式发生了怎样的变化？

Communication has changed a lot, especially with smartphones and the internet. In the past, people mainly met face to face, wrote letters, or used fixed-line phones. Today, we send instant messages, photos and videos in seconds, and we can video-call anyone anywhere. The change is that communication is much faster and cheaper, but in some ways it feels less personal, because we talk more but often say less.

Why do people sometimes not reply to messages quickly?

为什么人们有时不及时回复消息？

I think the most common reason is simply being busy, like attending classes, working or driving, so people genuinely don’t see the message. Some people also reply slowly on purpose, because they want time to think about the answer, especially for difficult questions. And to be honest, some messages look unimportant, so people read them and then forget to reply.

Is patience important in friendship?

耐心在友谊中重要吗？

Yes, very important. No friendship is perfect, so friends sometimes forget things, reply late, or say the wrong words. If we react angrily to every small mistake, no relationship can survive. Patience also means giving friends space when they are busy or upset, and trusting that they will come back to us when they can.

How do you feel when a friend ignores your message?

当朋友忽略你的消息时，你感觉如何？

It depends on the friend and the situation. If the person is usually reliable, I just assume they are busy and don’t worry. But if it happens often, I start to feel a bit upset and wonder whether I said something wrong. I think the worst feeling is being unsure, because you keep guessing instead of knowing the real reason.

How can people avoid misunderstandings with friends?

人们怎样才能避免和朋友产生误解？

I think the key is clear and honest communication. If you can’t reply immediately, a short message like “I’m busy, I’ll call you later” can prevent a lot of guessing. When something bothers you, it’s better to talk about it directly and calmly instead of staying silent. And when you disagree, try to listen first, because most misunderstandings come from people assuming instead of asking.

♻️保留题｜早起的经历 🔗 机考练习

Describe a time when you got up early

You should say:

• when it was
• what you did
• why you got up early
• And how you felt about it One time I got up very early was last winter during an important exam period. It was around December, and I had an early morning mock test at school that started at 7:30 a.m. Since my home was a bit far from the school, I decided to wake up at about 5:30 a.m. to make sure I had enough time to get ready without rushing. After getting up, I quickly washed my face, had a light breakfast, and then reviewed some notes for about 30 minutes. I also checked my bag carefully to make sure I didn’t forget anything important like my ID and pens. Then I left home quite early and arrived at school before most of my classmates. I got up early because I didn’t want to be late or feel unprepared for the test. I also knew that being calm in the morning would help me perform better during the exam. At first, I felt a bit sleepy and tired, especially when the alarm rang so early. But after I started moving and focusing on my tasks, I felt more alert and even a bit productive. In the end, I actually felt satisfied because I managed my time well and handled the exam calmly.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do you know anyone who likes to get up early？

你认识喜欢早起的人吗？

Yes, I know a few people like that. For example, my grandfather wakes up at five every morning, even in winter, and then he goes for a walk or works in his garden. One of my classmates also gets up early to study English before class, because she says the morning is quiet and her brain works best then.

2 Why do people get up early?

人们为什么早起？

There are many reasons. Some people get up early for work or school, because they have to commute and arrive on time. Others do it for their health, since morning exercise is good for the body. And some simply enjoy the quiet time, when they can read, plan their day, or do things without being disturbed. So for some people it’s a necessity, and for others it’s a choice.

3 What kinds of occasions need people to arrive early?

哪些场合需要人们提前到达？

Formal occasions usually require people to arrive early. For example, you should be on time or even early for job interviews, important meetings and exams, because being late may cost you the chance. People also arrive early for flights and trains, since they need time to check in and pass security. Weddings are another example, because guests often come early to help and greet other people.

4 Why do some people like to stay up late?

为什么有些人喜欢熬夜？

I think the main reason is that the night is quiet and free from distractions. Many young people study, work or watch videos late because they feel more relaxed after midnight, and they also want to win back the personal time they lost to school or work during the day. However, some people simply have bad habits, like scrolling through their phones, and they can’t stop even when they feel tired.

♻️保留题｜现场观看体育比赛 🔗 机考练习

Describe a live sport match you have ever watched

You should say:

• What it was
• When you watched
• What it was like
• And explain how you felt about it One live sport match I remember watching was a local basketball game between two university teams in my city. I watched it about two years ago when I was still in college. A group of friends invited me to go with them, and we went to the university sports hall on a weekend evening. The atmosphere was really exciting. The stadium was full of students cheering loudly for their teams. The match itself was very intense, with both sides playing at a high level. There were several fast breaks, three-point shots, and even a close score in the final minutes, which made the game very thrilling to watch. I felt really excited throughout the match, especially when the game became very close at the end. Even though I wasn’t a big basketball fan before, that experience made me appreciate live sports much more. I also felt a sense of unity because everyone in the stadium was cheering together, which created a very energetic and unforgettable atmosphere.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 What kind of sports events do people usually watch in your country?

在你们国家，人们通常看什么体育比赛？

In China, people usually watch sports like table tennis, badminton, basketball and football. Table tennis is our national sport, so everyone watches it during big competitions, especially the Olympics. Basketball is also very popular among young people, mainly because of the NBA and our local league. Recently, more people have also started following marathons and swimming events.

2 What’s the advantages of watching sports events on site?

现场观看体育比赛有什么优点？

Watching on site is completely different from watching on TV. The atmosphere is the biggest advantage, because you can feel the excitement of the crowd and hear people shouting and cheering around you. You also see the players’ real speed and skill, which makes the game more impressive. And for fans, being there shows real support, so winning feels much more personal.

3 What’s the benefits of watching sports events on TV?

在电视上看体育比赛有什么好处？

Watching on TV has clear advantages. First, it’s cheap and convenient, because you can watch from your sofa without buying tickets or travelling. Second, TV provides clear slow-motion replays and professional comments, so you can understand the details of the game. Also, you can follow several matches at once or watch them at a time that suits you, which is impossible at a live stadium.

4 What sports competitions in China are suitable for children?

中国有哪些适合孩子的体育比赛？

I think children in China can join many competitions. School sports meetings are the most common, with running, jumping and ball games for different ages. Table tennis and badminton are very suitable, because they don’t need much space, and they train reaction and coordination. Swimming competitions are also popular and healthy, as long as the children are properly trained and supervised.

5 Do children nowadays face a lot of competition?

现在的孩子面临很多竞争吗？

Yes, definitely. In China, children face competition very early, mainly in study, because good schools are limited and exam results decide a lot. They also compete in music, art and sports, since parents want them to develop talents. However, I think the biggest pressure they feel is not from other children but from time, because their days are packed with classes and practice.

6 Is this kind of competition good for children?

这种竞争对孩子有好处吗？

It’s a double-edged sword. On the good side, a reasonable level of competition teaches children to work hard, set goals and handle pressure, which is useful later in life. But too much competition can make children anxious and unhappy, and it may kill their natural interest in learning. So competition is healthy only when it stays at a level that children can handle.

♻️保留题｜改变观点的经历 🔗 机考练习

Describe a time you changed your opinion

You should say:

• When it was
• What was your opinion
• Why you changed your opinion
• And explain how felt about it One time I remember changing my opinion was about two years ago, when I changed my attitude towards online games. Before that, I used to think that online gaming was a complete waste of time, because I had heard so many stories about young people becoming addicted and failing their exams. What changed my mind was my little cousin, who was in middle school then. He loved a team-based online game, and during the winter holiday I stayed at his home for a few days. He played with his teammates every evening, and at first I wanted to lecture him. Instead, I sat down and watched, and I was surprised by what I saw. He was not just pressing buttons; he was discussing strategies with his team, planning when to attack and defend, and after every game he explained to me why his side had won or lost. I also noticed that he was quite disciplined. He set a timer, played for about an hour, and then stopped to do his homework. Later I learned that he had picked up many English words from the game, because the international server is all in English. Now I believe that online games are not simply good or bad. They can train your reaction speed and problem-solving skills, and they can even teach teamwork and some language. But the key is balance, and young people need adults to guide them. This experience taught me how easy it is to judge something I knew nothing about, and I try to be more open-minded now.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 When do children develop their own opinions?

孩子什么时候开始形成自己的观点？

I think children start to form their own opinions quite early, maybe from three or four years old, when they begin to say things like “I like this” or “I don’t want that”. At school age their opinions become clearer, because they learn to compare and question things. But I believe opinions really develop during the teenage years, when children think about their future and start to disagree with adults.

2 For children, whose opinions matter more, parents’ or teachers’?

对孩子来说，父母和老师谁的意见更重要？

It depends on the child’s age. For young children, parents’ opinions matter most, because children spend most of their time with them and trust them completely. When children enter school, teachers’ opinions become very influential, since students want to win their teachers’ praise. During the teenage years friends may matter most of all, although parents still have the deepest influence in the long run.

3 Should teachers listen to students’ opinions in class?

老师应该在课堂上倾听学生的意见吗？

Yes, I think they should. When teachers listen, students feel respected, and they become more willing to speak and join discussions. Listening also helps teachers understand whether their students have really understood the lesson, so they can adjust their teaching. Of course, teachers don’t have to follow every opinion, but they should at least take students seriously.

4 Should children develop their opinions at school or at home?

孩子应该在学校还是在家里培养自己的观点？

I think both places are necessary. At home, children feel safe, so they can freely say what they think and make mistakes without being judged, which gives them confidence. At school, they meet different ideas from classmates and teachers, which teaches them to discuss, compare and defend their views. So home builds the base, and school broadens it.

5 Why do they hold different opinions from their parents?

为什么孩子和父母的意见不同？

There are several reasons. First, children grow up in a different era, so they face new technology, new jobs and new values that their parents never experienced. Second, young people want independence, so they naturally question their parents’ ideas in order to build their own identity. Finally, children meet many other influences, like friends and the internet, which widen the gap between the two generations.

6 How do children judge whether management is good or bad?

孩子如何判断管理是好是坏？

I think children mainly judge by feelings. If a rule is fair and the reason is explained, children accept it, but if they think it’s unfair, they will complain or quietly break it. Children also judge by results, like whether their teachers or parents keep promises and treat everyone equally. And of course, children like adults who are kind and patient, so management from such adults is usually welcomed.

7 Where can children develop their own opinions?

孩子在哪里可以培养自己的观点？

I think children can develop opinions anywhere, but some places help more than others. Reading is a great way, because books expose children to different people and ideas. Discussions at home and at school also help, especially when children are asked “what do you think” and allowed to answer freely. Travelling and watching the news can also shape their views, because real experience teaches better than words.

♻️保留题｜重要的决定 🔗 机考练习

⚠️ 易混卡：与「改变重要决定」（先做决定、后改变主意再做新决定）及「对结果开心的重要决定」（决定后对结果满意）区分——本卡是一般性的重要决定，不强调改变主意或对结果的感受。

Describe an important decision that you made.

You should say:

• What the decision was
• How you made your decision
• What the results of the decision were And explain why it was important. One important decision that I made was deciding to focus on building an AI-based IELTS learning platform instead of continuing with traditional teaching only. I made this decision about a year ago when I noticed that more students were preparing for IELTS online and relying heavily on AI tools for learning. At first, I was uncertain because creating a platform required a lot of time, money, and technical knowledge. I spent several weeks researching the online education market, watching competitors, and talking with students to understand their needs. Eventually, I realized that many learners wanted a more flexible and affordable way to practice IELTS, especially speaking and writing. After making the decision, I started working on the project step by step. Although there were many difficulties in the beginning, such as technical problems and marketing challenges, I gradually built a system that could help students practice more efficiently. The experience also taught me many new skills related to AI, product design, and online business. This decision was very important to me because it completely changed my career direction and way of thinking. It encouraged me to leave my comfort zone and try something innovative. More importantly, it gave me confidence that I could adapt to new technology and create something meaningful for students.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do you think children sometimes have to make important decisions?

你认为孩子有时也必须做重要决定吗？

Yes, children do face important decisions sometimes. For example, choosing which school to attend or which subjects to focus on can affect their future. Some older children also decide things like whether to keep a hobby or which friends to make. Of course, most of these decisions are guided by parents, but children should still have a voice, because learning to choose is part of growing up.

2 What important decisions do teenagers need to make after graduation?

青少年毕业后需要做哪些重要决定？

Teenagers face quite big decisions after graduation. The most important one is about education, like which university to apply to and which major to study. Some also decide whether to study in their hometown or in another city. Others may choose to work, join a training programme, or even start their own small business, so in many ways this is the time when their life direction is set.

3 Who can children turn to for help when making decision?

孩子在做出决定时可以找谁帮忙？

Usually children first turn to their parents, because parents know them best and always want the best for them. Teachers are also helpful, especially for study-related choices, since they see the children’s abilities in class. Older brothers or sisters and trusted friends can help too, because they are close in age and easy to talk to. So I’d say children have quite a lot of support if they are willing to ask.

4 Do you think advertisements can influence our decisions when shopping?

你认为广告会影响我们购物时的决定吗？

Yes, advertisements influence us a lot, probably more than we realise. When we see an ad again and again, the product feels familiar and trustworthy, so we tend to choose it in the shop. Advertisements also make products look better than they are, with beautiful pictures and famous people, which pushes us to buy things we didn’t even need. I have bought things just because I remembered a catchy ad, so yes, the influence is real.

5 Do you think the influence of advertising is good?

你认为广告的影响是好的吗？

I think it’s both good and bad. On the good side, advertisements inform us about new products and good offers, which saves time when we shop. On the bad side, some ads exaggerate and mislead people, especially children and older people, who may spend money on useless things. So advertisements themselves are neutral, but we need to be careful and think before we buy.

6 How do people usually make important decisions?

人们通常如何做出重要决定？

People usually go through several steps before making an important decision. First, they collect information, such as searching online or asking experienced people. Then they compare the choices by listing the good and bad points of each option. Many people also discuss with their family or close friends, because others can see things from a different angle. Finally, they make the choice and take responsibility for it.

♻️保留题｜在团队中工作 🔗 机考练习

Describe a time when you worked in a group.

You should say:

• What you did
• Who you worked with
• What problems you faced And explain why you worked in the group. One time I worked in a group was during my university years when my classmates and I had to prepare a presentation for a business course. There were four people in the group, including me. Our topic was about how social media influences consumer behavior. We divided the work based on our strengths. One person collected data, another designed the PowerPoint slides, and I was mainly responsible for researching examples and giving part of the presentation. We spent about two weeks preparing for it and often discussed ideas after class and online. Although we worked quite well together, we still faced some problems. The biggest challenge was that everyone had different schedules, so it was difficult to find a suitable time to meet. Besides that, we sometimes had different opinions about the structure of the presentation. For example, some members wanted to include more statistics, while others preferred adding real-life examples to make it more interesting. In the end, we solved the problem by combining both ideas and trying to balance the content. We worked in a group because the project was too large for one person to complete alone, and the teacher wanted us to develop teamwork and communication skills. Personally, I think group work can be stressful at times, but it is also very rewarding. Through this experience, I learned how to cooperate with others, listen to different opinions, and manage tasks more efficiently. In the end, our presentation went smoothly, and we received a pretty high score, so I felt very satisfied and proud of our teamwork.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Why do some people prefer to work by themselves?

为什么有些人喜欢独自工作？

Some people prefer working alone because they can fully control their time and their methods, which makes them more efficient. They may also dislike the trouble of coordination, like waiting for others or explaining their ideas again and again. Besides, some tasks simply don’t need a team, so doing them alone avoids unnecessary meetings and conflicts. That said, I think most people still need teamwork sometimes, because big tasks are hard to finish alone.

2 What should a leader do to make team members want to follow him or her?

领导者应该怎么做才能让团队成员愿意跟随？

A good leader should first set a clear goal, so everyone knows what they are working towards. He or she should also listen to members’ ideas and treat everyone fairly, because people follow leaders who respect them. It also helps if the leader works hard and takes responsibility when things go wrong, instead of blaming others. In short, a leader earns trust through fairness and example, not through orders.

3 Should students learn to do group work？

学生应该学习如何做小组合作吗？

Yes, I think group work is very necessary for students. First, it prepares them for the future, because almost every job today requires cooperation with others. Group work also teaches communication skills, like expressing ideas and listening to different opinions. And when students share tasks according to their strengths, they learn to trust others and manage time, which are useful skills for life.

4 What group tasks are there in schools?

学校里的小组任务有哪些？

Schools arrange many kinds of group tasks. The most common one is the group presentation, where students research a topic and present it together. Students also do group experiments in science classes, prepare performances for festivals, and join team sports like basketball or football. Sometimes teachers even assign group projects, such as making a poster or carrying out a survey, so group work really runs through school life.

地点类（10 张）

🆕新题｜一个你觉得吵闹的地方

Describe a place that you think is noisy

You should say:

• Where this place is
• When you usually go there
• What kinds of noises you can hear there
• And explain how you feel about this place I’d like to talk about a local wet market just a few blocks from my apartment. I usually go there on Saturday mornings when I need to stock up on fresh groceries for the week. The place is an absolute sensory overload. The minute you walk in, you’re hit with a deafening cacophony of sounds. You hear vendors loudly hawking their daily catches at the top of their lungs, shoppers aggressively haggling over prices, and butchers rhythmically chopping meat. On top of that, there’s the non-stop clatter of plastic trays and background chatter from the dense crowd. To be honest, it’s definitely not a place to clear your mind because the noise can be overwhelming. However, I don’t totally hate it—it has an authentic, vibrant atmosphere that truly reflects the hustle and bustle of daily life.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Which environment do you prefer, a noisy one or a quiet one? Why?

你更喜欢安静的环境还是吵闹的环境？为什么？

I definitely lean towards a quiet environment. Constant noise can be extremely draining and makes it hard to maintain focus when I’m trying to work or read. A peaceful setting not only boosts my productivity, but also gives me a chance to decompress and clear my mind. That said, I don’t mind a bit of ambient sound, like a gentle buzz in a coffee shop, but prolonged loud noise is just too overwhelming.

Why are some places so noisy?

为什么有些地方那么吵？

It mostly stems from high population density and modern infrastructure. In urban areas, heavy traffic, ongoing construction, and public transit generate a constant baseline of noise pollution. On top of that, commercial hubs like markets, bars, and shopping districts draw dense crowds, where background music, street vendors, and general chatter naturally pile up.

Why can quiet places help people reflect on themselves?

为什么安静的地方能帮助人们反思自己？

Quiet places eliminate constant sensory distractions, which allows the brain to switch from reactive mode to reflection mode. When the external environment is calm, our mental chatter settles down, making room for introspection. It basically gives us the mental bandwidth to process complex emotions and gain clarity without outside noise crowding our thoughts.

How can noise affect people’s daily lives?

噪音如何影响人们的日常生活？

Noise disrupts both our mental productivity and physical health. Professionally or academically, persistent noise kills concentration, which slashes productivity and leads to frequent errors. Health-wise, chronic exposure to high noise levels disrupts sleep patterns and spikes stress, leaving people feeling chronically fatigued and short-tempered during daily interactions.

What can governments do to reduce noise pollution?

政府能做些什么来减少噪音污染？

Governments can tackle this on two main fronts: policy and infrastructure. First, they can enforce strict noise ordinances, like placing caps on construction hours and fining loud venues near residential areas. On top of that, investing in acoustic infrastructure—like building sound barriers along highways and upgrading to quieter public transit—can drastically cut down the baseline noise in major cities.

🆕新题｜自然之地

Describe a natural place (e.g. parks, mountains, etc.)

You should say:

• Where this place is
• How you knew this place
• What it is like
• And explain why you like to visit it I’d like to describe Jiuzhaigou Valley, an extraordinary nature reserve nestled in the high-altitude mountainous region of southwestern China. I first discovered this breathtaking location through a high-definition nature documentary detailing UNESCO World Heritage sites, and its mesmerising visuals immediately captivated me. It is renowned for its crystalline turquoise lakes, multi-tiered cascading waterfalls, and vast stretches of pristine alpine foliage. The landscape shifts dramatically with the seasons, transforming into a vibrant tapestry of crimson and amber hues during autumn, contrasted against snow-capped peaks in the background. What makes Jiuzhaigou my absolute favorite natural retreat is the profound sense of sensory liberation it offers. Walking along the wooden boardwalks amidst the quiet wilderness provides an immediate antidote to urban burnout. The pristine air and total absence of city noise foster a deep state of mindfulness, allowing me to completely disconnect from digital demands and immerse myself in the sublime tranquility of the natural world. It is an invaluable sanctuary where I can mentally recharge and regain perspective.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

What kind of people like to visit natural places?

什么样的人喜欢自然？

Broadly speaking, visitors to natural places fall into three main categories: urban-weary dwellers seeking respite, thrill-seekers craving physical exertion, and creatives or researchers looking for inspiration. For stress-laden city professionals, natural environments serve as a psychological sanctuary for a desperately needed digital detox, allowing them to unplug and rejuvenate. Conversely, outdoor adventurers are drawn to raw landscapes for the physical challenge and tactile engagement with the wilderness. Additionally, artists and nature enthusiasts visit to cultivate an intrinsic appreciation for ecology and draw creative inspiration from the untamed environment.

Are there any wild animals in the city?

城市里有很多野生动物吗？

Indeed, modern cities harbor a surprisingly diverse array of urban wildlife that have successfully adapted to anthropogenic environments. Beyond ubiquitous species like pigeons and rodents, many metropolises support opportunistic scavengers—such as raccoons, foxes, and coyotes—as well as apex predators like peregrine falcons nesting on high-rises. These creatures exploit specific ecological niches and urban green corridors, relying on human infrastructure and waste for food and shelter. Their presence demonstrates remarkable behavioral plasticity, though it increasingly presents challenges regarding human-wildlife coexistence.

Do you think it is a good idea to let animals stay in local parks for people to see?

你认为让动物待在本地的公园供人们参观是一个好的主意吗？

It is a double-edged sword that hinges entirely on the living conditions provided. On one hand, keeping animals in cramped, artificial enclosures purely for public viewing often compromises animal welfare, exposing them to chronic stress from noise pollution and excessive foot traffic. On the other hand, if local parks are designed as non-enclosed sanctuaries for native fauna—allowing wildlife to thrive naturally—it offers immense educational value. This approach cultivates ecological literacy and empathy among city dwellers without reducing living creatures to mere exhibits of entertainment.

Do children in your country often play outdoors?

在你的国家，孩子们通常在户外活动吗？

Regrettably, outdoor play among children in my country has seen a marked decline in recent decades. Driven by intense academic pressures, high urban density, and the pervasive lure of screen-centric entertainment, modern youth lead increasingly sedentary lifestyles. Unlike previous generations who enjoyed unstructured neighborhood play, children today are often confined indoors or funneled into tightly scheduled extracurricular activities. That said, health-conscious parents are increasingly making deliberate efforts to organize weekend outings to natural reserves to counteract this growing nature deficit.

What are the differences between a natural place and a city?

自然之地和城市有哪些区别？

The starkest contrast lies in their structural architecture and psychological impact. Natural places operate on organic ecosystems characterized by acoustic tranquility, seasonal rhythms, and biological diversity, serving as spaces for psychological restoration. In contrast, cities are heavily engineered environments dominated by concrete infrastructure, high population density, and frantic economic activity. While natural spaces foster mindfulness by reducing cognitive overload, urban settings subject inhabitants to relentless sensory stimulation and artificial light. Ultimately, one nurtures ecological balance, while the other prioritizes human efficiency and industrial productivity.

Do you think going to the park is the only way to get close to nature?

你认为去公园是亲近自然最好的方式吗？

Not at all. While manicured urban parks offer accessible green spaces, they are far from the sole avenue for connecting with the natural world. On a micro scale, individuals can cultivate indoor botany or balcony gardens, creating personalized micro-ecosystems directly within their living spaces. For a more visceral connection, venturing beyond municipal boundaries into untamed wilderness—such as alpine trekking, backcountry camping, or exploring coastal marine habitats—provides a far more immersive experience than landscaped lawns. Ultimately, getting close to nature is about developing an ecological mindfulness, which can be achieved anywhere from a home plant sanctuary to the open sea.

🆕新题｜拥挤的地方

Describe a crowded place that you have visited

You should say:

• Where it was
• When you went there
• Who you went there with
• What you did there
• And how you felt about the experience I’d like to talk about my visit to the Bund in Shanghai during the peak holiday season a couple of years ago, which was without a doubt the most packed place I’ve ever experienced. I went there with two of my close university friends for a weekend trip. Our primary goal was to take in the iconic night view of the illuminated Lujiazui skyline across the Huangpu River. However, as soon as we stepped out of the subway station, we were greeted by an overwhelming sea of people. Navigating through the streets felt almost like swimming against the tide, as the promenade was completely chock-a-block with tourists. We spent nearly an hour slowly shuffling along the waterfront just to find a spot near the railing to take a few photos and soak in the view, before heading off to a nearby side street to grab some local street food. My feelings about the experience were a mix of awe and exhaustion. On one hand, the sheer volume of people made it quite claustrophobic, and the non-stop hustle and bustle was physically draining. On the other hand, the collective enthusiasm of the crowd gave the entire waterfront a vibrant, electric atmosphere. While I certainly wouldn’t visit during a peak holiday again, it was definitely an unforgettable, high-energy experience.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Which cities in your country are particularly overcrowded?

你们国家的哪个城市特别拥挤？

In China, top-tier megacities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen are notoriously overcrowded. Their rapid economic development and concentration of resources continuously draw millions of job seekers, resulting in extreme population density, strained public infrastructure, and severe traffic congestion during peak hours.

Do you think cities will have more or less green space in the future?

你认为未来的城市应该增加更多绿色空间吗？

I believe future cities will actually feature more green spaces, though in more vertical and innovative forms. Driven by urban sustainability goals and climate resilience, city planners are increasingly integrating rooftop gardens, vertical forests, and pocket parks into dense urban architecture to combat heat island effects and boost public well-being.

Do you think people will use bicycles more or less frequently in cities in the future?

你认为未来的城市中应该有更多的自行车交通吗？

I predict people will use bicycles far more frequently. Driven by zero-emission targets and severe urban traffic congestion, municipalities are heavily investing in micro-mobility infrastructure—such as expanded dedicated cycle networks and e-bike sharing schemes—making cycling an increasingly fast, healthy, and carbon-neutral commute option.

Why do people go to crowded places?

为什么人们喜欢去拥挤的地方？

Primarily, people are drawn to crowded places for the vibrant social buzz and the collective energy of shared experiences, such as music festivals or holiday celebrations. Additionally, highly sought-after destinations—like popular night markets or iconic landmarks—offer unique cultural or commercial value that easily outweighs the inconvenience of packed spaces.

Do you think the continued growth of large cities is a positive trend?

你认为大城市变得越来越拥挤是好事吗？

I view it as a double-edged sword. On one hand, urban expansion drives economic agglomeration, fostering innovation, higher employment, and efficient resource distribution. On the other hand, unchecked growth often leads to environmental degradation, soaring housing costs, and severely strains public infrastructure. Ultimately, whether it’s positive depends entirely on sustainable management.

🆕新题｜想去的公共建筑

Describe a public building you would like to visit (e.g.a library or a sports center)

You should say:

• Where it is
• What it is like
• How you knew this place
• And explain why you would like to visit it One public building I’ve had on my bucket list for a while is the Royal Library of Denmark, affectionately nicknamed “The Black Diamond.” It is situated right on the waterfront in the city center of Copenhagen, bridging the gap between the historical city and the modern harbor front. I first discovered this landmark a couple of years ago while watching a documentary on modern Scandinavian architecture. The presenter showcased how the structure seamlessly fuses historic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary design, and the visual imagery immediately caught my attention. Visually, the building is striking. The exterior is clad in polished black granite imported from Zimbabwe, giving it a sleek, reflective surface that changes color depending on the weather and the angle of the sun. The building slants slightly outward over the canal, making it look like a floating dark crystal. Step inside, however, and the atmosphere completely shifts: a grand, eight-story atrium lined with warm wood and soft curves is bathed in natural light through a massive glass façade facing the water.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Do people prefer living in flats or in detached houses?

人们喜欢住在公寓还是大房子？

It largely depends on lifestyle and financial status. Young professionals often prefer flats for their central location, affordability, and low maintenance. Conversely, growing families lean towards detached houses for greater privacy, extra living space, and private gardens. In short, people balance urban convenience against personal space.

Which historical buildings are worth preserving?

哪些历史建筑值得被保护？

I’d say buildings with unique architectural beauty or deep cultural significance are most worth preserving. For instance, historic landmarks retain a city’s identity, while old structures can often be repurposed for modern public use, effectively connecting the past to the present.

What kinds of public facilities do many people use where you live?

在你生活的地方，哪些公共设施用的人比较多？

I’d say public transport networks and municipal parks are the most widely used facilities where I live. For instance, residents rely heavily on subways for their daily commute, while local parks offer essential spaces for outdoor exercise and relaxation, vastly improving our overall quality of life.

Do younger and older people use the same kinds of public facilities?

年轻人和老年人使用同样的公共设施吗？

I’d say they generally use different facilities based on their lifestyle needs. For instance, younger people tend to frequent sports centers and study hubs for active recreation, while seniors rely more on community parks and healthcare centers for gentle exercise and social interaction.

Do you think new public facilities are always better than old ones?

你认为新的公共设施总是比旧的好吗？

I’d say not necessarily, as it depends on what we value most. For instance, new facilities boast modern amenities and superior accessibility, while older ones often possess unique architectural charm and historical heritage that simply cannot be replaced.

♻️保留题｜喜欢或者不喜欢的高楼 🔗 机考练习

A high-rise building you like or dislike

You should say:

• Where it is
• What it looks like
• What it is used for
• And explain why you like or dislike it One high-rise building that I like is the Shanghai Tower in Shanghai, China. It is located in the Lujiazui financial district, which is one of the most modern areas in the city. The building is very tall and has a unique twisting design that makes it stand out from other skyscrapers. Its glass exterior gives it a very futuristic and impressive appearance, especially when it is lit up at night. The Shanghai Tower is mainly used for offices, hotels, and observation decks. Many international companies have offices there, and tourists can also go to the top to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. I like this building mainly because of its design and symbolism. It represents modern architecture and China’s rapid economic development. I also like how it combines practicality with creativity, making it not only a working space but also a tourist attraction. Every time I see it, I feel impressed by how human engineering can create such a remarkable structure.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Have you ever lived in a high-rise building?

你曾经在高楼里住过吗？

Yes, I have. I grew up in an apartment on the twelfth floor of a high-rise building, and I still live in a similar building now. Actually, most people in my city live in high-rise apartments, because land is expensive and the population is large. The building has an elevator, and from our balcony we can enjoy quite a nice view of the city.

2 What impact do you think climate has on architectural design?

你认为气候对建筑设计有什么影响？

I think climate shapes buildings more than people realise. In hot and rainy southern areas, buildings have wide roofs, big windows and open balconies, so that air can flow through. In cold northern areas, walls are thicker, windows are smaller, and heating systems matter most. So architects must first answer the question “what is the weather like here” before they design anything.

3 Why do you think many Chinese people now live in high-rise buildings?

为什么现在很多中国人住在高楼里？

The main reason is the shortage of land in cities. As more and more people move to cities for work, the demand for housing grows, so builders can only go upwards. High-rise buildings also allow many families to live close to workplaces, schools and hospitals, which is convenient. Compared with individual houses, apartments are also cheaper, so they are the realistic choice for most families.

4 In the future, will Chinese people prefer high-rise buildings or houses?

未来中国人会更喜欢高楼还是独栋房子？

I think high-rise apartments will remain the main choice for most people, simply because cities will stay crowded and land will stay expensive. However, as people’s incomes rise, more families will buy second homes, like villas or houses in the suburbs, for weekends and holidays. So I’d say most people will still live in high-rises, but more of them will also own a house somewhere quiet.

5 Why do you think some people design their own homes?

为什么有些人会自己设计房子？

Because a home is very personal, and ready-made houses never fit everyone’s needs perfectly. Some people design their own homes to match their lifestyle, like a big kitchen for cooking or a quiet room for working. Others enjoy the creative process itself, since choosing every colour and piece of furniture is satisfying. And in some cases it saves money, because self-design avoids paying for unnecessary decoration.

♻️保留题｜一个你去过喜欢上的城市 🔗 机考练习

Describe your favorite city that you have visited

You should say:

• Where it is？
• How you knew it？
• When you visited it？
• And explain why it is your favourite city？ My favorite city that I have visited is Chengdu, which is the capital city of Sichuan Province in southwestern China. I first learned about this city from social media and travel videos online. Many people recommended it because of its delicious food, relaxed lifestyle, and famous giant pandas. I had always wanted to visit it, so I finally went there with a few friends during a summer vacation last year. During the trip, we visited several famous attractions, including the panda base, traditional streets, and local hotpot restaurants. What impressed me most was the atmosphere of the city. Unlike some large cities that feel stressful and crowded, Chengdu has a slower pace of life. People there seem very relaxed and know how to enjoy life. I also loved the local food, especially spicy hotpot and various street snacks. This city became my favorite mainly because it gave me a perfect balance between modern life and traditional culture. The city is modern and convenient, but at the same time, it still keeps its historical charm and local character. In addition, the people were friendly, and the overall environment made me feel comfortable and welcome. If I have another chance in the future, I would definitely like to visit Chengdu again.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Which is more suitable for young people, urban life or rural life, and which is more suitable for old people?

城市生活和农村生活哪个更适合年轻人，哪个更适合老年人？

I think city life suits young people better, because cities offer more job opportunities, entertainment and chances to meet new people, and young people can enjoy things like concerts, restaurants and night life, which are rare in the countryside. For old people, rural life may be better, because the environment is quiet and clean, the food is fresh, and life there is slower and cheaper. However, older people also need good hospitals, so many choose to live near a city for that reason.

2 How do people choose a city to travel to?

人们如何选择旅游的城市？

People consider several things when choosing a city to visit. Most start with famous attractions, because they want to see the sights everyone talks about. Food is another big factor, since many people travel just to taste local dishes. Budget and travel time also matter, so popular choices are usually cities that are affordable and easy to reach. Besides, social media influences us a lot, because beautiful photos make a city look more attractive.

3 Do you think a tourist city is also a good place to live? Why?

你认为旅游城市也是居住的好地方吗？为什么？

It depends. A tourist city has many good points for living, like beautiful scenery, good restaurants and a lively atmosphere, and the service industry provides jobs. However, there are problems too. Prices in tourist areas are usually high, and popular places are always crowded with visitors, which can make daily life noisy and inconvenient. So a tourist city is nice for a short stay, but living there permanently is not for everyone.

4 Do most people prefer to travel in a modern city or a historical city?

大多数人喜欢去现代化城市还是历史城市旅游？

I think most people enjoy both, but for different reasons. When they want shopping, night life and big events, they choose modern cities like Shanghai or Shenzhen. When they want culture and beautiful old buildings, they choose historical cities like Xi’an or Beijing. Actually, the most popular travel cities often combine the two, which is why some places attract tourists all year round.

♻️保留题｜无聊的地方 🔗 机考练习

Describe a boring place

You should say:

• Where it is？
• Who you went there with？
• What you did there？
• And explain why you think it is a boring place？ One boring place I once visited was a small local museum in my hometown. It is located in an old building near the city center, and I went there with one of my classmates during a school holiday about two years ago. The museum mainly displayed old photos, farming tools, and some historical documents about the local area. At first, I thought it might be interesting and educational, but after walking around for a while, I quickly lost interest. Most of the exhibits were very old-fashioned, and there were very few interactive activities or modern technology to make the experience more engaging. My friend and I spent about an hour there. We slowly walked around the different rooms, read some introductions on the walls, and took a few photos. After that, we just sat on a bench because we didn’t really know what else to do. I think it was a boring place mainly because the atmosphere was too quiet and dull. There were almost no visitors, and the lighting inside made the place feel even more lifeless. Also, the information was presented in a very traditional way, so it was difficult to stay focused for a long time. I personally prefer places where I can interact with things, such as science museums, amusement parks, or places with more activities and energy.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Why do most children think education is boring?

为什么大多数孩子觉得教育很无聊？

I think the main reason is that school education focuses too much on memorising and exams, so children repeat the same exercises again and again. Children naturally love playing and exploring, but classes often force them to sit quietly and follow fixed rules. Also, many lessons are taught in the same way every day, with few games, stories or real examples, so it’s not surprising that children lose interest.

2 Why aren’t young people willing to listen to the experiences of older people?

为什么年轻人不愿意听老年人的经验？

I think young people believe the world has changed so much that old experience is out of date. Their grandparents’ advice was about survival and hard work, but young people now face completely different problems, like choosing careers in new industries. Besides, young people want to try things themselves and make their own mistakes, because they feel that personal experience is the only way to really learn. In my opinion, older people’s advice is still useful, but it has to be explained in a modern way.

3 What can people do when they feel bored?

人们感到无聊时可以做什么？

People can do many things to fight boredom. The simplest choice is entertainment, like watching films, playing games or listening to music, which fills time easily. But a better way is to do something productive, such as exercising, cooking a new dish or learning a skill, because those activities give a sense of achievement. Sometimes boredom is also a signal, so people can use the moment to rest or to think about what they really want to do.

4 Why are some teachers’ classes boring? Are there any solutions?

为什么有些老师的课很无聊？有什么解决办法吗？

Some classes are boring because the teacher just reads from the textbook and talks for the whole period, without checking whether students are following. The content can also be too abstract, with no connection to real life. To solve this, teachers can use more pictures, videos and stories, and they can design activities like discussions or games. Besides, asking questions and inviting students to share ideas makes the class lively, because students learn more when they take part.

♻️保留题｜宜居之地 🔗 机考练习

Describe a place you have visited that you think it is a good place to live

You should say:

• Where it is
• What you know about this place
• What people can do there And explain why you would recommend this place as a good place to live. One place I have visited that I think is a very good place to live is Vancouver in Canada. It is located on the west coast of Canada, in the province of British Columbia. I visited Vancouver about two years ago during a short trip with my family. I stayed there for almost a week and had a chance to explore the city. From what I know, Vancouver is one of the most livable cities in the world. It is famous for its clean environment, modern infrastructure, and high quality of life. The city is surrounded by mountains and the ocean, so the natural scenery is very beautiful. The weather is also quite mild compared to other parts of Canada, which makes it more comfortable to live in. People can do many things there. For example, they can go hiking in the mountains, cycling along the seaside, or walking in large parks like Stanley Park. There are also many shopping malls, restaurants, and cultural attractions. In winter, people can even go skiing in nearby mountain areas. I would recommend Vancouver as a good place to live because it offers a great balance between nature and city life. The environment is very clean and safe, and people seem friendly and relaxed. At the same time, there are many job opportunities and good public services like education and healthcare. Overall, it feels like a place where people can enjoy a comfortable and healthy lifestyle.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 What type of places do people like to live in?

人们喜欢住在什么样的地方？

It depends on people’s age and needs. Young people usually prefer places close to work, shopping and entertainment, so they choose city centres or areas near the metro. Families with children look for good schools and safe parks, while older people often choose quieter places with good hospitals nearby. In general, people like places that are convenient, safe and pleasant, but the exact choice depends on their lifestyle.

2 Why do some people like to go abroad?

为什么有些人喜欢出国？

People go abroad for many reasons. Many go for study or work, because some countries offer better education and higher pay in certain fields. Others want to experience a different culture, food and lifestyle, which broadens their mind. Some people also move abroad for a better environment, cleaner air or a less stressful life, although they usually find that life abroad has its own difficulties, like language and homesickness.

3 What are the differences in living arrangements between your country and other countries?

你们国家的居住方式和别的国家有什么不同？

There are some clear differences. In China, most city families live in high-rise apartments, and it’s common for three generations to live nearby or even together, so family members help each other a lot. In many Western countries, people prefer houses with gardens, and young adults usually move out after eighteen and live independently. Also, Chinese people often rent in big cities for work, but they still dream of buying their own apartment, because owning a home is seen as a symbol of stability.

4 What are the differences between the places preferred by the elderly and young people to live?

老年人和年轻人喜欢住的地方有什么不同？

Young people prefer lively and convenient places, like city centres with good transport, shopping malls and night life, because they have busy social lives and careers. Elderly people, on the other hand, usually prefer quiet areas with green spaces, because they enjoy walking, gardening and chatting with neighbours, and they need peace for good sleep. However, both groups share one important need: easy access to medical care, especially for older people.

5 What preparations should be made before moving to a new place?

搬到新地方之前应该做哪些准备？

Moving needs quite a lot of preparation. First, you should research the area, like transport, schools, hospitals and prices, to make sure it fits your life. Then you need to arrange practical matters, such as signing the contract, moving your furniture, and changing your address for bills and documents. It’s also wise to save some money, because the first months always cost more than expected, and visiting the place personally before moving is strongly recommended.

6 Is choosing a place to live one of the most important decisions in life?

选择居住的地方是人生最重要的决定之一吗？

Yes, I think it is. Where you live decides your daily routine, your commute, the schools your children attend and even the people you meet, so it shapes your whole life. A wrong choice can cause years of trouble, like a long travel time or an unsafe area, and moving again is expensive and stressful. However, few people can choose freely, because jobs and budgets limit the options, so the real skill is finding the best balance.

♻️保留题｜喜欢拜访但不想去住的家 🔗 机考练习

Describe a home that you like to visit but do not wantto live in.

You should say:

• Where it is
• What it is like
• Why you like to visit it And explain why you would not like to live there. One home that I really like to visit is my cousin’s apartment in Shanghai. She lives in a modern high-rise building near the city center, and I stayed there for a few days during a holiday last year. Her apartment is very stylish and modern. It has large floor-to-ceiling windows, simple but elegant furniture, and an amazing view of the city skyline at night. The living room is especially cozy because she decorated it with warm lights, plants, and lots of books. The apartment also has smart technology, so many things, like the lights and curtains, can be controlled by voice commands. I enjoy visiting this place because the atmosphere is relaxing and comfortable. Whenever I stay there, we usually cook together, watch movies, and chat late into the night. Also, the location is very convenient, with shopping malls, cafés, and restaurants nearby, so there is always something fun to do. However, although I like visiting it, I would not want to live there permanently. The biggest reason is that the city is too crowded and noisy for me. There are always traffic jams, and life there feels very fast-paced and stressful. In addition, apartments in big cities are usually expensive and have limited space. I personally prefer living in a quieter and more peaceful place where I can enjoy nature and a slower lifestyle.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Do Chinese people like to visit others’ homes?

中国人喜欢去别人家做客吗？

Yes, we do, especially among relatives and close friends. Visiting someone’s home is warmer than meeting outside, because the host prepares tea and food, and people can chat freely. However, in big cities visiting has become less frequent, because everyone is busy and homes are small. Usually, Chinese people visit others on festivals or special days, and they always bring a small gift, like fruit or tea.

2 What do Chinese people do when they visit others?

中国人做客时会做什么？

When Chinese people visit others, they first greet the host warmly and give a small gift. Then they usually sit in the living room, drink tea and chat about family, work or daily life. The host often prepares fruit, snacks or even a full meal. During festivals, guests may also play games, watch TV or help the host cook. The most important thing is being polite and friendly, so that everyone feels relaxed.

3 What kind of place do people in your country like to live in?

你们国家的人喜欢住在什么样的地方？

Most Chinese people prefer places that are convenient, so they like living near metro stations, schools, markets and hospitals. Young people enjoy lively areas with restaurants and entertainment, while families prefer quiet, safe neighbourhoods with good schools. Although many people dream of a big house with a garden, in reality most live in apartments, because that’s what they can afford in cities.

4 What’s the difference between homes in cities and those in the countryside?

城市里的家和农村里的家有什么不同？

The difference is quite big. City homes are usually apartments in high-rise buildings, smaller but very convenient, because shops, schools and transport are nearby. Countryside homes are often independent houses with a yard, so they are bigger and quieter, and people can grow vegetables or keep chickens. However, countryside homes are far from good schools and hospitals, which is why many families still choose to live in cities.

♻️保留题｜推荐的度假地 🔗 机考练习

Describe a place you went for vacation

You should say:

• When and where you went
• Who you went with
• What you did there
• And explain how you felt about this place I’d like to talk about a vacation I took to Sanya about two years ago during my summer holiday. It is a famous coastal city in the south of China, and many people go there to relax and enjoy the sea. I went there with two of my close friends from university. We had been busy with our studies for a long time, so we wanted to take a short break together. We stayed there for around five days. During the trip, we did many interesting activities. We spent a lot of time on the beach, swimming in the sea and taking photos of the beautiful sunset. We also tried some local seafood, such as grilled shrimp and fresh crab, which tasted amazing. One day, we visited a tropical park and rode sightseeing buses around the area. At night, we walked along the seaside and talked about our future plans, which was very relaxing. I really enjoyed this place because the weather was warm, the scenery was stunning, and the atmosphere was peaceful. Compared with big cities, life there felt much slower and less stressful. I felt refreshed and happy during the whole trip. Even now, I still remember the sound of the waves and the fresh sea air. It was one of the most memorable vacations I’ve ever had.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Is it difficult for young people to choose travel destinations?

年轻人选择旅行目的地难吗？

I think it’s both easy and difficult. On one hand, young people have endless choices, because social media shows them beautiful places all over the world. On the other hand, that’s exactly the problem: with so many choices, it’s hard to decide, especially when money and time are limited. Also, young people often need to match their friends’ schedules, so the final decision usually takes quite a long time.

2 How do people choose their travel dates?

人们如何选择出行日期？

People choose travel dates based on several things. The most important factor is their free time, so most people travel during public holidays, summer holidays or annual leave. Price matters too, because flights and hotels cost much less in off-peak seasons, so some people choose their dates in order to save money. Finally, the weather and local festivals also affect the choice, since people want to visit places at their best time.

3 What are the differences between the elderly and children when choosing vacation spots?

老年人和孩子在选择度假地时有什么不同？

Children usually want places that are fun, like theme parks, beaches and zoos, where they can play and see new things. Elderly people, however, prefer quiet, relaxing places, such as hot spring resorts, parks or famous historical cities, and they value comfort and good healthcare nearby. So children chase excitement while the elderly chase rest, which is why family trips often need a compromise.

4 What are the differences in dressing on weekends versus weekdays?

周末和平时穿衣服有什么不同？

On weekdays, people dress according to their work or school, so office workers wear suits or smart clothes, and students wear uniforms. On weekends, people are much freer, so they wear comfortable clothes like T-shirts, jeans and sports shoes. Also, weekend dressing often depends on the activity, so people may dress up for a wedding or a date but dress casually for shopping. In short, weekday clothing follows rules, while weekend clothing follows comfort.

5 Is the weather very important for holidays?

天气对假期重要吗？

Yes, the weather is very important, because it can decide the whole mood of a trip. Good weather makes sightseeing, swimming or hiking enjoyable, while heavy rain or extreme heat can ruin the plans and keep people in the hotel. This is why people check the weather forecast before booking, and some choose their destination for its climate, like going south in winter for warm weather. Of course, a good companion can still make a trip enjoyable in bad weather, but sunny days definitely help.

物品类（4 张）

🆕新题｜攒钱想买的东西

Describe a time when you saved money to buy something you wanted

You should say: What you wanted to buy Why you wanted to buy it How you saved money for it And explain how you felt after you bought it I’d like to talk about the time I saved up to buy a high-performance laptop. About a year ago, my old computer was getting terribly slow, which made video editing and research for my courses almost impossible, so I desperately needed an upgrade. To afford it without relying on my parents, I set a strict budget for myself. I cut back on unnecessary daily expenses, like buying coffee and eating out, and I also took on a part-time tutoring job on weekends. Resisting impulse buying was tough, but after about four months of disciplined saving, I finally hit my target. When I finally bought the laptop and unboxed it, I felt a strong sense of accomplishment. Using something bought with my own hard-earned money made it feel so much more rewarding, and it really taught me the value of financial discipline.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

Should schools teach children how to manage money from a young age?

学校应该从孩子小时候开始教他们如何管理金钱吗？

Yes, absolutely. Incorporating financial literacy into early education instills a healthy habit of delayed gratification, helping kids understand the real value of money rather than just spending impulsively. Especially in today’s cashless society, mastering basic budgeting skills from a young age paves the way for long-term financial independence in adulthood.

Should parents teach their children to spend money freely or to save money carefully?

家长应该教孩子大方花钱，还是更谨慎地存钱和使用钱？

Parents should definitely prioritize teaching careful saving, but with a balanced approach. Cultivating a saving habit builds financial discipline and ensures children are prepared to save for a rainy day. That said, completely restricting spending isn’t healthy either—kids need to make occasional purchases to understand value for money. Ultimately, it’s all about helping them strike a balance between enjoying life and securing their financial future.

Do you think it is easier to teach teenagers how to manage money when they are around 16 or 17 years old?

你认为在孩子大约 16、17 岁时教他们管理金钱会更容易吗？

Yes, 16 or 17 is really the sweet spot for learning money management. At this stage, teenagers start gaining practical independence, like taking on part-time jobs or handling larger allowances, which gives them real-world experience. Furthermore, their cognitive ability is mature enough to grasp abstract financial concepts like budgeting, interest rates, and long-term consequences, making the lesson much more impactful and relevant than it would be for a younger child.

Do people find it easier to save money or spend money?

对人们来说，存钱和花钱哪个更容易？

Spending money is definitely much easier because it offers instant psychological rewards with minimal effort. Modern shopping apps and frictionless digital payments allow us to buy things in seconds without feeling the physical loss of cash. In contrast, saving requires continuous self-discipline and resisting aggressive marketing, which makes it an uphill battle for most people.

Why do some people find it difficult to save money?

为什么有些人觉得存钱很困难？

It usually boils down to a mix of psychological triggers and economic pressures. On a personal level, we live in a consumer-driven culture that constantly encourages instant gratification, making impulse buying extremely hard to resist—especially with seamless digital payments. On a broader scale, the rising cost of living means a significant portion of people’s income goes straight toward basic necessities, leaving very little disposable income at the end of the month.

What kinds of things do people usually save money for?

人们通常会为了购买什么东西而存钱？

People generally save money for a mix of short-term rewards and long-term financial security. In the short term, it’s usually for major discretionary spending, like going on a luxury vacation or buying the latest tech gadgets. Over the long run, savings are usually directed toward major life milestones—such as putting down a deposit on a house, funding higher education, or building a safety net for unexpected emergencies and retirement.

🆕新题｜送朋友的礼物

Describe a gift you would like to buy for your friend.

You should say:

• How you knew your friend
• How long you have known him or her
• How you would choose a gift for hime or her And explain why you would choose that gift for him or her. I’d like to describe a gift I plan to buy for my close friend, Leo. We first met during our freshman orientation at university about seven years ago, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. When picking a gift for him, I always prioritize utility over novelty—I look for something that addresses his actual daily needs rather than just a decorative token. Since he recently started working remotely and travels frequently, I plan to get him a pair of top-tier noise-canceling headphones. I chose this specific gift because he often struggles to concentrate while working in noisy coffee shops or on long commutes. A high-end headset would effectively create a quiet sanctuary for him anywhere, dramatically boosting his focus and alleviating daily stress. Beyond its tailored functionality, it’s a practical investment in his well-being that demonstrates I truly pay attention to his lifestyle and personal well-being.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

When do people normally send gifts to others?

人们通常什么时候给人送礼物？

Gifts are typically exchanged during cultural milestones like birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries, as well as major festive occasions such as Christmas or Spring Festival. Beyond calendar events, people frequently present gifts to celebrate career achievements, like promotions or retirement, or simply as a token of appreciation to express gratitude and foster goodwill in personal or professional relationships.

Is it hard to choose a gift?

挑选礼物难吗？

Yes, it often can be quite challenging because finding a truly meaningful gift requires hitting the sweet spot between practicality and sentimentality. Striking a balance between the recipient’s nuanced personal taste, your own budget, and avoiding generic options creates considerable pressure. Ultimately, the difficulty lies in ensuring the gesture feels genuine and thoughtful rather than transactional.

Will people feel happy when receiving an expensive gift?

当人们收到昂贵的礼物会开心吗？

Initially, most people feel flattered and excited because high monetary value often signals generosity and effort. However, true happiness depends heavily on the context. If an expensive gift feels disproportionate to the relationship, it can create awkwardness, a sense of obligation, or social pressure to reciprocate. Ultimately, people derive lasting happiness when a gift aligns with their personal tastes rather than its sheer price tag.

Which do people give on traditional festivals, red envelopes or other kinds of gifts?

在传统节日人们会到什么礼物，红包还是其他礼物？

It largely depends on the specific festival and the dynamic of the relationship. During Spring Festival, red envelopes are the undisputed norm, symbolizing good luck, prosperity, and blessings—particularly from older generations to children. Conversely, during holidays like the Mid-Autumn Festival or Dragon Boat Festival, people lean toward traditional physical gifts such as mooncakes or tea, as these carry rich cultural symbolism and foster mutual goodwill through shared seasonal delicacies.

What do people usually consider when buying gifts?

人们在购买礼物时通常考虑什么？

When choosing a gift, people primarily weigh three main factors: utility, personal relevance, and budgetary constraints. Above all, buyers consider the recipient’s specific tastes and lifestyle needs to ensure the item is meaningful rather than generic. Additionally, the appropriateness for the occasion and the closeness of the relationship dictate the price point, preventing the gesture from feeling either underwhelming or overly extravagant.

Are there any unlukcy things that people should not buy as gifts in your country?

在你们国家，人们通常不会购买什么样东西作为礼物？

Yes, in China, gift-giving is heavily influenced by linguistic taboos and homophones, where items that sound similar to ominous words are strictly avoided. The most famous example is giving a clock, as the phrase ‘song zhong’ sounds identical to attending a funeral or paying one’s last respects. Similarly, gifts like umbrellas or pears are shunned among friends and couples because their pronunciations closely resemble words for separation or breaking up. Sharp objects like knives are also seen as a cultural faux pas, as they carry the symbolic implication of severing ties.

♻️保留题｜遇到的技术上的问题 🔗 机考练习

⚠️ 易混卡：与「遇到的有挑战性的技术问题」区分——本卡侧重某个具体技术故障/问题本身及其解决过程，不强调问题难度。

Describe a problem of technology you have encountered, like a computer or a cell phone

You should say:

• what it was
• when and where you had this problem
• how the problem was solved and explain how you felt when you had this problem. One technology problem I remember clearly was when my laptop suddenly crashed right before an online IELTS speaking class. It happened about two months ago at home, in the evening, when I was preparing some teaching materials and opening several tabs at the same time. Suddenly, the screen turned black and the computer stopped responding completely. At first, I felt really stressed and nervous because the class was going to start in less than ten minutes, and many students were waiting for me online. I tried restarting the laptop several times, but it still wouldn’t work properly. In the end, I quickly switched to my phone and used it to continue the class temporarily. After the lesson, I searched online for solutions and found out that the problem was caused by a system update error. I later fixed it by reinstalling the operating system and deleting some unnecessary software. Although the problem was finally solved, I was quite frustrated at that moment because technology is supposed to make life easier, but sometimes it creates even more pressure. However, this experience also taught me to back up important files regularly and always prepare a second device just in case something goes wrong.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 What tech products are you used at home？

你在家里使用哪些科技产品？

At home, I use quite a lot of tech products every day. The most important ones are my smartphone and my laptop, which I use for work, study and entertainment. We also have a smart TV, a washing machine, a fridge and an air conditioner, and my family often uses a smart speaker to play music or check the weather. Actually, I think modern homes are full of technology that we barely notice.

2 What’s the advantages and disadvantages of tech products for students?

科技产品对学生有什么优点和缺点？

Tech products bring both good and bad points for students. On the good side, they make study easier, because students can search for information, watch online lessons and keep their notes on devices. But there are clear disadvantages too, like distractions, since students often end up playing games or watching short videos instead of studying. Also, using screens for too long hurts their eyes, and some students depend on technology so much that they lose basic skills like mental calculation.

3 Do children rely on AI?

孩子们依赖人工智能吗？

Yes, children rely on AI more and more nowadays. Many students use AI tools to search for answers, check their writing, or even finish their homework, so they don’t always think deeply by themselves. They also use AI apps for fun, like chatting with AI characters or generating pictures. I’m not saying this is all bad, but the habit of asking AI first is growing very fast among children.

4 Do you think relying on AI is a bad thing?

你认为依赖人工智能是坏事吗？

I think it’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, AI saves time and helps people do things they couldn’t do alone, like translating or organising data, which is great. On the other hand, if people rely on AI for everything, their thinking and memory may become weaker, and they may lose creativity. So the problem is not AI itself but over-dependence, and we need to use AI as a tool, not as a brain.

5 What technology do family members generally use?

家庭成员一般都使用什么科技产品？

Most families use similar basic technology. Everyone has a smartphone, which is used for calling, messaging and paying bills. At home, families also use smart TVs, computers, washing machines, fridges and robot cleaners, which make housework easier. Older members may use health devices like blood pressure monitors, while younger ones use game consoles and earphones. So technology in families covers communication, housework, health and entertainment.

6 Why do people want to buy the latest technology?

为什么人们想买最新的科技产品？

There are several reasons. First, new products often perform better, with faster speed, better cameras or longer battery life, which makes daily life easier. Second, some people buy new products for social reasons, because having the latest phone is seen as fashionable, and they don’t want to feel left behind. Finally, companies release new models every year and stop supporting old ones, so people are pushed to upgrade even when their old devices still work.

♻️保留题｜特别节日的食物 🔗 机考练习

Describe a kind of food that you ate at special occasions

You should say:

• What it is
• What occasion or events it was
• How it is cooked or made
• Why you would like to eat it And explain why people eat it on that special occasion or event. One kind of food I often eat on special occasions is dumplings. In my family, dumplings are usually eaten during important events such as the Lunar New Year, family reunions, and sometimes birthdays. The most memorable occasion for me is the Spring Festival, when the whole family gathers together and makes dumplings at home. Dumplings are made with a simple dough wrapper filled with minced meat, usually pork or beef, mixed with vegetables like cabbage or chives. The filling is seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and other spices. After preparing the filling, we wrap it inside small dough pieces and shape them into half-moon forms. Then they are usually boiled in hot water, although sometimes they can also be steamed or pan-fried. I like eating dumplings because they are not only delicious but also very comforting. The combination of soft dough and juicy filling tastes really good, especially when they are freshly cooked. Also, I enjoy the process of making them with my family, which makes the food even more special. People eat dumplings during special occasions mainly because they symbolize unity and togetherness. The shape of dumplings is similar to ancient Chinese money, so they are also believed to bring wealth and good luck in the new year. More importantly, making and eating dumplings together helps strengthen family bonds and creates a warm festive atmosphere.

【Part 3 深度讨论】

1 Why are there special foods on special occasions or events?

为什么特殊场合有特别的食物？

I think special foods make the occasion feel different from ordinary days. Since food is the centre of every celebration, special dishes show that the event matters and that people have prepared carefully. Many special foods also carry meanings, like luck, wealth or reunion, so they express the family’s wishes for the future. In short, special food turns a date on the calendar into a real memory.

2 Are there any differences between the food people eat today and the food people ate in the past?

现在人们吃的食物和过去有什么不同？

Yes, there are big differences. In the past, people mainly ate seasonal and local food, because there was little choice and no cold storage, so meals were simple. Today, we can buy food from all over the world at any time, and processed and delivered food is everywhere. People’s eating habits have also changed: many people eat out or order takeaway instead of cooking at home. However, some people now care more about healthy, natural food, which is a kind of return to the past.

3 Do people in different regions eat the same special food every day?

不同地区的人每天都吃同样的特色食物吗？

No, not at all. China is huge, so different regions have completely different daily food. People in the south mainly eat rice, while people in the north prefer wheat food like noodles and steamed buns. The taste also differs: Sichuan food is famous for being spicy, Cantonese food is light, and food in the northwest often features lamb and bread. So regional food depends on local climate, farming and history.

4 What type of cuisine do people like in China?

中国人喜欢什么类型的菜系？

Chinese people love many types of cuisine. Home-style dishes are always popular, because they are simple and familiar. Sichuan cuisine is liked across the country for its spicy, rich flavour, and Cantonese food is popular for its fresh ingredients and light taste. Besides Chinese food, young people also enjoy Western fast food and Japanese or Korean dishes, so the modern Chinese table really mixes everything.

5 What are the differences between everyday food and festival food?

日常食物和节日食物有什么区别？

Everyday food is simple, quick and cheap, because people need it for energy during busy days. Festival food, on the other hand, is richer and more carefully prepared, with more meat, more dishes and traditional items that are only made on special days. Festival food often has symbolic meaning as well, like fish for surplus and dumplings for wealth. Also, everyday meals are often eaten quickly or alone, while festival meals bring the whole family together around one table.

6 What’s the advantages and disadvantages of cooking at home?

在家做饭有什么优点和缺点？

Cooking at home has many advantages: it’s cheaper than eating out, the ingredients are fresh and clean, and you can control the oil and salt, so the food is healthier. For many people, cooking is also a relaxing hobby. However, home cooking takes time and energy, because you need to shop, prepare and wash up, which is hard after a long day at work. Also, not everyone knows how to cook well, so the food may not taste as good as restaurant dishes.

7 Do you prefer eating at home or outside?

你更喜欢在家吃饭还是在外面吃？

I prefer eating at home most of the time. Home food is healthier, because I know exactly what goes into the dishes, and it’s also much cheaper than eating outside. Besides, eating at home feels comfortable and relaxed, especially with family. But I do enjoy eating outside occasionally, such as on birthdays or when I meet friends, because restaurants offer a wider choice and a different atmosphere. So my answer is: home food for daily life, outside food for special moments.