Question 1: How often do you buy things online? [Why?]

Sample Answer: Oh, it really varies, to be honest. Some weeks I'll be online shopping almost every day, picking up little things like stationery or groceries – mostly because it’s just so convenient, especially with the grocery delivery services. I can do it while I'm watching TV or even during my lunch break at work. Other times, it might be a couple of weeks before I even think about buying anything online. It really depends on whether I need something specific or if I'm browsing for things I want. I suppose I'm more likely to buy online if I know exactly what I want and can compare prices easily – that's a big advantage for me.

Question 2: What was the last thing you bought online?

Sample Answer: Oh, um, let me think… I actually bought a new pair of running shoes online last week. They were from this smaller brand I found on Instagram, they looked really cool and got great reviews, so I decided to give them a try. I’d been needing new trainers for ages, my old ones were completely worn out, and I'd been eyeing up some new ones in a few shops but they were all a bit pricey. These ones were a little cheaper, and the delivery was surprisingly fast – I got them two days later! I haven't actually worn them for a proper run yet, but they feel really comfortable so far. I’m hoping they’ll last me a while.

Question 3: Do you ever see things in shops and then buy them online? [Why/Why not?]

Sample Answer: Yeah, it happens pretty often, actually. I guess it's a combination of things. Sometimes I'll see something in a shop, like a new pair of headphones or a specific type of book, and I'll just want to check the price online first. Retailers often have sales or price match guarantees, so I'll browse around to see if I can get it cheaper. Other times, I might like the product, but I just need a little more time to think about it, and buying online gives me that – I can browse other options too before I commit. And sometimes, it’s just convenience; I might not have the space in my bag to carry it home right away, and ordering it online means it gets delivered straight to my door. So yeah, it's a pretty regular thing for me.

Question 4: Do you think the popularity of online shopping is changing your town or city centre? ‘[Why/Why not?]

Sample Answer: Definitely, yeah. I think online shopping's having a huge impact on our city centre. You see fewer people browsing the high street these days, especially in the smaller shops. A lot of the bigger stores are holding on, but even they seem to be struggling a bit. I think it's because it's just so much easier to shop online – you can do it anytime, anywhere, and often find better deals. Plus, a lot of the smaller, independent businesses haven't really adapted to the online world, so they're losing out. It's a bit sad, actually, because it's making the city centre feel a little emptier and less vibrant. There are fewer people around, and some of the shops that used to be bustling are now closing down. So yeah, I think it's changing the feel of the place quite dramatically.

Question 1: Describe a time when you enjoyed visiting a member of your family in their home.

Sample Answer: Oh, that's easy! Last summer, I went to visit my Aunt Clara in her little cottage by the sea. It's this adorable place, all whitewashed walls and climbing roses, really picturesque. She lives right on a cliff overlooking the ocean, and the sound of the waves crashing is just constant, so relaxing. We spent the whole week just pottering about – she showed me her amazing vegetable garden, we went for walks along the beach collecting shells, and she taught me how to knit. I'm terrible at it, but it was so much fun just sitting there with her, chatting and trying to keep up with her needles! In the evenings, we'd have dinner – she makes the most incredible seafood paella – and then just sit on her veranda, watching the sunset. It was so peaceful and different from my usual busy city life. It was really a chance to reconnect with her, and I felt completely rejuvenated after the visit. It was just so simple, but incredibly special.

Question 1: When do families celebrate together in your country?

Sample Answer: Well, in my country, we have lots of occasions for family celebrations! Big ones are definitely national holidays like New Year's, where everyone gets together for a big meal and fireworks – it's a really huge deal. Then there are religious holidays too, like [mention a relevant religious holiday and briefly explain its family significance e.g., "Lunar New Year, where we visit relatives and give out red envelopes with money," or "Christmas, where we usually have a big roast dinner and exchange gifts"]. And of course, birthdays are a big thing, especially milestone birthdays like 18th or 60th – we'll often have a big party for those. Beyond the big events, though, families often get together for smaller things like weddings, graduations, or even just a Sunday lunch – it really depends on the family, but spending time together is really valued.

Question 2: How often do all the generations in a family come together in your country?

Sample Answer: Well, it really depends on the family, you know? Some families are incredibly close-knit and manage to get everyone together for major holidays like Tet, which is our Lunar New Year – that's a big one, everyone makes a real effort. Others, it's maybe just a couple of times a year, maybe at weddings or funerals, unfortunately. And then there are some families where it's really rare, maybe just once every few years, if at all, because people move away for work or study and it becomes harder to coordinate. I think it's becoming less common for all generations to be together regularly, especially with younger people moving to cities for opportunities, but the big holidays still tend to bring everyone back together, at least for those who can make it.

Question 3: Why is it that some people might not enjoy attending family occasions?

Sample Answer: Well, I think there are a few reasons. For some, it might be the pressure to be sociable and put on a brave face when they're actually feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Family gatherings can be intense, especially if there are unresolved conflicts or difficult personalities involved. Then there's the whole travel aspect – long journeys, arranging childcare, the expense… it can all add up to feeling like more hassle than it's worth. And for others, maybe they just find large groups of people draining, they prefer smaller, more intimate gatherings or even just quiet time alone. It really depends on the individual and their personality, I think.

Question 4: Do you think it is a good thing for parents to help their children with schoolwork?

Sample Answer: Well, it's a bit of a mixed bag, isn't it? On the one hand, I think it's really beneficial, especially when kids are younger and are still grasping basic concepts. Having that extra support and guidance from someone who cares about them can really boost their confidence and help them develop good study habits. My mum used to help me with my maths homework when I was little, and I think that really helped me get a solid foundation. But then, on the other hand, there's a danger of overdoing it. I think it's important for kids to learn to be independent and figure things out for themselves. If parents are constantly doing their homework for them, they're not really learning how to solve problems or think critically. So I guess the ideal scenario is a balance – offering support and guidance when needed, but also encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. It's about finding that sweet spot, you know?

Question 5: How important do you think it is for families to eat together at least once a day?

Sample Answer: Well, I think it's really important, ideally. It's not always possible, of course, with busy schedules and everything, but when it does happen, it's amazing. It's a great way to connect, you know? You catch up on each other's days, share stories, and just generally feel closer as a family. Plus, it's a chance to teach good table manners and maybe even try new things – my mum always tries to introduce us to different cuisines. I think it contributes to a stronger family bond and creates positive memories, which I think are invaluable. It's not about the food itself so much as the time spent together, really. But realistically, I know a lot of families struggle to make it happen every day, so even a few times a week is a big step in the right direction.

Question 6: Do you believe that everyone in a family should share household tasks?

Sample Answer: Well, ideally, yes, I think it's fairest if everyone pitches in. It's not about making it perfectly equal – some people have more time or energy than others, or maybe certain tasks suit different people better. But I think everyone should contribute something, even kids. It teaches responsibility and teamwork, plus it makes life easier for everyone in the long run. In my family, we try to do that, but it's definitely not always perfect! My younger brother tends to...let's just say he's not the tidiest, so my mum and I often end up picking up after him. But he's getting better, and we try to make sure he has age-appropriate chores he's responsible for. I think it’s a really important life skill, and it strengthens family bonds too, even if there are arguments about whose turn it is to do the dishes!