Sample answers – Speaking – In-class practice – Lesson 8

1. Family
1. How often do you meet with your family?
It’s normally once a month. At present I’m studying and working in another city, which is quite
far from my hometown, so I can only set aside time for my family at the end of the month,
because of the distance and heavy workload, you know.
2. How do you spend the time with your family?
We often spend quality time together on eating scrumptious meals prepared by my mother,
talking with each other while enjoying our favorite delicious foods. It’s a precious time when we
can momentarily get away from the hectic whirlwind of daily activities.
3. Do you want to live with your family in the future?
I’d prefer we live in the same city, so that we could take good care of each other, while making
sure our family’s bond is secure and will not suffer from potential discrepancies in our individual
lifestyles or the generation gap.
4. What activities do your family like doing together?
My family often gather around the table enjoying a cozy meal together, communicating and
sometimes busting into laughter because of my father’s humorous stories. We’re also
particularly into family game nights, when we huddle together to play cards or other family
favorites.

2. Gifts
1. How often do you buy others gifts?
Not very often, I think. I used to send gifts to my friends on most occasions when I was younger,
but I haven’t been doing that these days.
2. Do you like to send expensive gifts?
Well I’m still a student, so sending expensive presents is a no-no for me. I prefer giving gifts that
show my love and care for that person, for example handmade ones.
3. What kinds of gifts are popular in your country?
Birthday gifts, such as books, clothes or accessories are always popular. Or teddies; when I was
in secondary school and high school, we used to send each other teddies or photo frames as
birthday gifts.
4. Why do people send gifts?
I think people send gifts to show that they care for the other party and that they treasure the
relationship between the two. It can be more specific, like to express their affection, gratitude,
or even to ask for forgiveness.

3. Flowers
1. Do you like flowers? (Why?)
Yes, flowers give me a lot of pleasure, especially bright colored ones. I love the way various
types of flowers harmonize with each other in a garden or in florist shops, creating a beautiful
picture. Every time I admire a gorgeous bunch of flowers, I feel relaxed, and optimistic.
2. Which/What is your favorite flower?
I’m really keen on colorful flowers and sunflowers are definitely my favorite flower due to their
symbolic meaning. This flower represents the flexibility to overcome obstacles, happiness and
good luck.
3. Do you think flowers are important?
Personally, I think flowers play an important role in our lives. They make people feel positive,
energetic and they lift our spirits. Without gorgeous and colorful flowers, the world seems to be
dark and boring, and that causes people to feel, depressed and lacking in inspiration.
4. Are flowers important in your culture? (Give examples)
Of course, besides representing beauty, some flowers also show our Vietnamese people’s key
virtues.
For instance, the Lotus was chosen to be our national flower due to its beauty and its
representation of the virtues of the Vietnamese people namely purity, and faithfulness.