【A版Part3完整版】19年1-4月雅思口语part3参考素材

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2019 年 1-4 月雅思口语 Part 3 高频考题参考资料
(A 版)
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1. 2019 年 1-4 月 Part 3 高频考题整理如下，请大家按照 topic 序号对应查找相关话题和素
材。
2. 注意 Part1 和 Part3 考官可以即兴提问（尤其 Part3），因此无法覆盖全部考题。
！！以下均为真实考生回忆高频考题。复习过程中尽可能多的练习各种题目，增强表达能力。
3. 我们的题目是根据大量雅思考生的回忆一一核实后确定的，并参考了“雅思哥”等多个机
构的考题信息。接下来我们都会继续跟踪题库并进行必要的补充更新。如果对题库有疑问，
可以微信联系 Penny 咨询。
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祝您雅思过过过！
雅思过过过淘宝店铺原创（2019.01.17）
2019 年 1-4 月雅思口语 Part 3 高频考题题目列表

Part3 Topic（与 part2 题号相同）
Topic 1: 亲手做礼物送他人 Topic 29: 独处喜欢做的事
Topic 2: 教年轻人的经历 Topic 30: 休闲时光
Topic 3: 网上查找信息的经历 Topic 31: 美丽的城市
Topic 4: 看过并想尝试的运动 Topic 32: 国家有趣的地方
Topic 5: 花费长时间学会的技能 Topic 33: 去远方旅行
Topic 6: 好消息 Topic 34: 一条好的法律
Topic 7: 新建的公共设施 Topic 35: 参加过的聚会
Topic 8: 保持健康的方式 Topic 36: 在特殊场合吃的食物
Topic 9: 户外活动 Topic 37: 特定节日吃的食物
Topic 10: 想做但没时间做的事 Topic 38: 聪明的人
Topic 11: 收到自己恰好需要的礼物 Topic 39: 朋友成功的经历
Topic 12: 买了却不经常用的东西 Topic 40: 有趣的老人
Topic 13: 一次设备坏掉的经历 Topic 41: 祖父/母的工作
Topic 14: 抱怨但有好结果 Topic 42: 儿时偶像
Topic 15: 被骗的经历 Topic 43: 以前不喜欢现在感兴趣的学科
Topic 16: 糟糕的服务体验 Topic 44: 一个青少年
Topic 17: 家族企业 Topic 45: 保护环境的人
Topic 18: 有趣的演讲 Topic 46: 一个喜欢去学习的地方
Topic 19: 想见的有趣的人 Topic 47: 常做的帮助工作/学习的事情
Topic 20: 收到钱作为礼物 Topic 48: 理想的房子
Topic 21: 借东西 Topic 49: 感兴趣想了解的历史时期
Topic 22: 开心经历 Topic 50: 捡到别人丢了的东西
Topic 23: 改变计划/想法 Topic 51: 让你笑的电影或电视
Topic 24: 想一起工作/学习的人 Topic 52: 童年游戏
Topic 25: 见过的帅哥/美女 Topic 53: 重要的植物
Topic 26: 别人帮助下做的重要决定 Topic 54: 想学的二外
Topic 27: 最近读的一本书 Topic 55: 第一部手机
Topic 28: 想写的书
Topic 1. 亲手做礼物送他人
1. Have you received anything that was made by the giver?
Yes, I have! For my birthday last year, my aunt gave me a gorgeous scarf that she had knitted1 herself.
It was a soft blue that looked so nice on me. I was over the moon because blue is my favorite color,
which my aunt knew. It was such a sweet way for her to show her love for me. I really appreciated it.
In fact, I wear it all the time.
2. Do people prefer to receive handmade gifts or something bought in stores?

I suppose that generally, people prefer receiving handmade gifts. It really shows that you care when
you make something with your own two hands for someone. But I guess it depends; some people love
designer clothes or other gifts that can only be found in stores. Personally, I think it’s very sweet
when someone gives me a present they made themselves. It’s just a way of going that extra mile2.
3. What kinds of handmade gifts can be made at home? /What kinds of handcraft do people
like to make at home?
Um…you can make lots of simple gifts at home. For example, you can make cards or drawings for
loved ones. But if you have a knack for crafting, you can also make more elaborate gifts like picture
frames or little ornaments3. I know a lot of people who like knitting scarves or hats for their friends
and family. Personally, knitting isn’t my cup of tea, so I like making paintings for people as gifts.
4. Who are better at making handcrafts, boys or girls?

Well, it’s kind of a stereotype4, but I’d guess that girls are better at making handcrafts. You know,
generally girls have more patience, so they can sit for a long time and stay focused on the task. I
suppose that a lot of boys prefer being more active by running around or playing sports, so I don’t
think they’d want to make handcrafts that much. That being said5, there are always exceptions to the
rule6.
见下页
1 knitted: 编织的。（对于礼物，不同性别、不同喜好的同学会收到的礼物不同，请根据个人情况做调整，有疑问随时联系
Penny）
2 going that extra mile: 额外的付出，为…多付出几分
3 ornaments：装饰品 /'ɔrnəmənt/
4 stereotype: 刻板印象，这样说太有成见了
5 That being said: 话虽这么说
6 there are always exceptions to the rule：凡事总有例外
5. Is it important to learn art or music?

Yes, it’s crucial to learn art or music! Ideally, I suppose everyone should learn both. They’re both
great subjects that can help people find a creative outlet to blow off some steam7 or just focus their
energy on something nice and positive. Art and music are both really vital parts of society; they’re
involved with things like movies and TV shows, which entertain us and help relieve the stress of work
and study.
6. Do you have any handmade creativity education programs in China?

Honestly, there are none that I know of, or at least none that come to mind8. I definitely think there
should be, though. That would help people to have a creative outlet that they can use to express
themselves and let off steam. Nowadays, we’re too concerned with business and science and we don’t
pay enough attention to art. I really hope there are some programs like that out there.
7 a creative outlet to blow off some steam: 释放压力和感情的更有创意的方式

8 there are none that I know of, or at least none that come to mind：（对这个问题）我不太了解，至少现在我想不到任何与之有
关的。同样是可以灵活运用的模板句哦。
Topic2. 教年轻人的经历
1. Is motivation important for learning new things?
Yes, I believe motivation is key when it comes to9 learning new things. To be specific, when you
want to learn something new outside of work or school, the only thing that will get you to learn it is
your own will. You have to be determined and motivated because there isn’t any outside pressure for
you to learn. I suppose that people can be motivated to learn new things by focusing on the benefits
that knowledge can bring them.
2. What do people learn from parents and teachers respectively?

Well, since your parents are with you literally for your whole life, they have a huge influence on you.
I think parents teach you how to treat others, whether they’re friends or other family members. They
help shape your outlook on the world10. But teachers mainly teach knowledge related to academic
subjects, like language and science. They also teach you about the world and give you new
perspectives.
3. What skills should be taught to kids before they go to school?

It seems to me that kids should be taught interpersonal skills11. They need to know how to get along
with other kids, even if they don’t immediately like them. In that way, they can make school a more
welcome environment for all the students. They can also get the most out of12 their education by
making friends as well as learning new things. So their parents should teach them how to be kind and
considerate towards others.
4. In general, what skills do adults need to have?

Well, from my perspective, adults should have good communication and interpersonal skills. They
need to know how to express themselves and explain what they want and expect from others. If they
don’t know how to communicate properly, they could end up stepping on someone else’s toes13 or
cause confusion. They should also know how to get along with others, whether they’re colleagues or
coworkers. That’s an important skill you need for life. 见下页
9
A is key when it comes to B: 说到 B, A 是关键。用来表达某个事情很重要的句型。
10
shape your outlook on the world：帮助你形成世界观
11
interpersonal skills：人际交往的能力
12
get the most out of：从…中最大化受益
13
end up stepping on someone else’s toes：最终会冒犯别人，惹人生气
5. What are the skills that you want to learn?

I would really love to learn some sports-related skills. Sports have never really been my cup of tea,
but lately I’ve been looking for a way to keep fit and my friend recommended getting into swimming.
Of course I’ve swum before, but just for kicks, never for an actual sport or anything. So I hope I can
learn some swimming skills like the butterfly stroke14. It would help me stay healthy and hopefully
be fun as well.
14
the butterfly stroke: 蝶泳
Topic 3. 网上查找信息的经历
1. What ways can people get information these days except the internet?
There are tons of ways for people to get information nowadays, even aside from the internet. For
example, there are plenty of tried-and-true15 methods like getting info from books, magazines, or
newspapers. With the popularity of television and movies, lots of people learn a ton of information
from those mediums too.
2. What are the differences between getting information from a library and getting information
from a newspaper? / Given the fact that many books in libraries are often out of date, are
libraries still necessary?
Well, (even though some of the materials in libraries can be out-of-date, I still believe they’re one of
the best sources for reliable and valid information.16) When you get information from a library, you
can look at books or articles that have definitely been fact-checked and published by reputable people
and publishers. But I think in general, newspapers can be more biased and less objective about the
truth.
3. Is information found on the internet reliable? / What are the disadvantages of getting
information from the internet?
I suppose that it depends. There are tons of educational sites that are constantly fact-checked so
they’re accurate. But a lot of the internet is created by people who don’t care about being true to life,
so you can often find a lot of fake news or information when surfing the web. That’s definitely a
disadvantage of getting information from the internet; sometimes it can be a challenge to tell what’s
real and what’s fake17.
见下页
15
tried-and-true: 靠得住的
16
括号中的内容可用来回答第二种问法
17
it can be a challenge to tell what’s real and what’s fake：难辨真假
4. How do you distinguish if the information you searched online is real or not?
Well, I generally look at what kind of sources have been used, and I also judge the appearance of the
website. For example, if a website has poor graphics and lots of grammatical errors, it’s probably not
displaying information collected by professionals. But if there are reliable sources listed on the
website, then you’re probably safe to go ahead and take it at face value 18 . Of course there are
exceptions to every rule. You just have to be very careful.
5. How about getting information from TV?

Well, when you get information from TV, it can be pretty easy to just take it at face value. This is
especially true if you’re watching a news program. Most of the time, the information that’s shown on
those types of shows has been fact-checked, so you can generally trust it. But it’s always better to be
safe than sorry19, so I think it’s good to double-check something when you hear it on TV.
18
take it at face value：take someone/something at face value,表示相信某人或某物，不需要再调查验证
19
it’s always better to be safe than sorry：以防万一，小心驶得万年船
Topic 4. 看过并想尝试的运动（低频疑似在考题）
1. What kind of sport can all people do?
Well, I don’t really have a good head for20 sports, so I don’t tend to keep track of21 that kind of thing.
But if I had to guess, I’d say22 swimming. You know, swimming is technically a sport even if you’re
not doing it competitively, and you don’t really have to be a specific age to go swimming. Of course
you don’t want a super young kid to go out in the water, but generally there isn’t an age barrier.
2. Is it good for athletes to endorse brands?

Yeah, I suppose that generally speaking it’s good for athletes to endorse23 brands. For one, it really
helps the company they’re supporting. If it’s a sports company that has really good values and
sportswear, then I don’t see any problem with athletes helping them become more well-known. Plus,
endorsing the brand helps the athlete out. I’m sure they make a decent buck off24 of that.
3. Are there too many sports programs on TV?

Well, personally sports aren’t my cup of tea, so I don’t really follow sports programs on TV. But from
what I’ve seen from flipping25 through channels, I think there are too many of them out there. I don’t
get what the draw is26; you’re just watching someone else play sports instead of doing it yourself. So
it seems to me that there should be programs devoted to more helpful or interesting things.
见下页
20
have a good head for: 有…的才能，擅长…
21
keep track of: 知道…了解…的动态
22
if I had to guess, I’d say…（万能句）如果让我猜的话，我觉得…
23
endorse: 代言
24
make a decent buck off…得到（不错的）收入，buck 意为 money
25
flipping: 转换频道
26
I don’t get what the draw is: 我不理解这有什么吸引力（当你对被问到的内容不感兴趣或者不了解某方面内容时，可以想
想是否可以这么表达~）
4. Why people like watching sports rather than do sports themselves?

Well, it’s mainly because when you watch sports, you’re usually watching people who are
professionals and really have a knack for what they’re doing. So I think that in itself can be more
entertaining than actually playing sports yourself. Plus, I know a lot of people are couch potatoes27
who only do something active once in a blue moon28. It’s a lot easier to just kick back and relax by
watching someone else play sports instead.
5. Do young people and old people like watching same kind of sports?
I believe young people and old people are at opposite poles29 when it comes to watching sports.
Young people tend to love fast-paced and intense sports, like basketball or swimming competitions.
But I suppose old people like sports that are a lot slower and not as crazy, like golf or baseball. I think
that for young people, watching a golf game would be about as fun as watching paint dry30.
27
couch potatoes: 窝在家里看电视，对运动不感兴趣的人
28
once in a blue moon: 很少见，很罕见
29
at opposite poles: 截然相反
30
as fun as watching paint dry: 很无聊，没意思
Topic 5. 花费长时间学会的技能
1. What kinds of job need patience?
I guess jobs where you have to deal with people all the time definitely require patience. For example,
if you’re a teacher – especially with young kids- you need a ton of patience to keep your cool and
avoid blowing up at31 them. The same thing goes for people32 in customer service. You often deal
with very frustrated customers so you have to learn how to handle situations calmly and patiently.
2. What skills may take a long time to learn?

It seems to me that learning instruments or learning a trade33 takes a long time to learn. Some people
have a natural knack for music, but it still might take them a while to learn how to play an instrument
well. After all, practice makes perfect. When it comes to learning a trade, like plumbing 34 or
engineering35, it can take years to get really good at it. I really respect people who can commit to
learning skills like that. It definitely takes patience.
3. Do young people like to spend their time on learning new skills?

Yes, I think lots of young people are interested in learning new skills, and they’re more than willing
to36 spend their free time to do so. For example, my friend Lisa just spent a few months learning how
to play the ukulele. It’s fun to try new things, even if it takes time. Plus, some practical skills, like
computer skills and math skills, also help you build up your resume37. It’s worth it in the end38.
见下页
31 blowing up at sb. 冲某人发火

32 The same thing goes for people… 对于某类人来说也是这样的
33 learning a trade：学一项技术
34 plumbing：水暖技术
35 engineering: 工程技术
36 more than willing to：非常乐意
37 build up your resume：丰富简历
38 It’s worth it in the end：最终你会发现是值得的
4. Why do people like to spend a lot of time learning new skills?

It seems to me that people like spending tons of time learning new skills because it’s a way of
broadening their horizons and stepping outside their comfort zones. You know, you can get bored out
of your skull39 if you never try anything new. So even if it takes a while, it’s worth spending time
learning new skills because it can teach you a lot and make you a better, more interesting person.
5. Why are some people unwilling to spend a long time to learn new skills?
Well, as much as40 learning new skills helps you to be better at work or life, it can also take a lot of
time, and some people are just too lazy to commit. But sometimes they just don’t have a lot of free
time to begin with, so they want to spend it in other ways. For example, some people think it’s more
important to spend time with family or friends rather than learning something new.
6. Do people feel satisfied after they have learned a new skill?

I believe for the most part, people feel really satisfied after they’ve learned a new skill. Not only does
it help them feel more accomplished, but it’s also cool to show off a new skill to their friends and
family. For example, my younger cousin just learned how to play the guitar. It’s adorable when she
plays it. She put on a concert for us and she was over the moon when we gave her applause.
39 get bored out of your skull: 会极度无聊

40 as much as：或许/也许…会…, 但是…(有转折义)
Topic 6. 好消息
1. Which kinds of people like reading news and which don’t like it?
I suppose that people who like to stay well-informed41 enjoy reading the news. Generally speaking, I
believe businessmen are regular readers of the news because they need to focus on whether new
policies have a good or bad influence on their business. On the flip side42, people who have a small
attention span43 or care about less serious things probably don’t like reading the news. You know,
those people aren’t that concerned with what’s going on in the world around them. They may care
more about their daily life and their own family.
2. What kind of news do people like?

I think that in general, people like news about celebrities. There are dozens of tabloid magazines44
that make money off of 45 people wanting to hear all the latest gossip about their favorite stars.
Personally, I think it’s really shallow46 of people to want to know so much about strangers, but I guess
it can’t be helped when we live in a society that focuses so much on famous people. Everyone just
wants to know the latest goings-on.
3. Do young people and old people like the same type of news?
I don’t think so. If you ask me47, young people like news about celebrities or pop culture. For example,
lots of my friends spend hours scrolling through news articles about their favorite stars. But when it
comes to old people, I think they probably enjoy news that are focused on politics. For example, my
grandpa likes staying up to date with the latest actions of famous politicians. They’re much more
serious in that regard48.
见下页
41
well-informed: 消息灵通的，见多识广的
42
On the flip side：反过来说
43
have a small attention span：注意力持续时间不长
44
tabloid magazines：八卦杂志
45
make money off of：利用…赚钱
46
shallow：肤浅
47
If you ask me: 如果让我说的话（注意对不同回答方式的总结）
48
in that regard：在那一方面
4. Besides TV, how do people get news?

Well, when it comes to people my age, I know that getting news from social media websites is actually
pretty common. For example, I often check out sites like Sina49 so I’m in the know with what’s going
on. But I know lots of other people get news the old-fashioned way through actual newspapers. Many
old people are subscribed to a ton of newspapers that keep them informed. To each their own50.
5. Do you think children should start watching news from a young age?
I don’t really think children should start watching news from a young age. A lot of what you see on
the news or read about in the papers is pretty serious. For example, there are lots of stories about
violent acts like robberies and murders. I think kids should be allowed to be kids51 and not have to
worry about heavy stuff like that. Maybe they can start paying attention to the news when they’re
older.
6. Do you think we should pay attention to the latest news?

Yeah, I believe it’s important to pay attention to the latest news. After all, a good citizen is an
informed citizen. If you watch or read the latest news, you can know more about what’s going on in
the world. That’ll give you material for interesting and informative conversations with the people
around you. Actually nowadays, people are too focused on themselves. It’s good to branch out52 and
pay attention to stuff like that.
49
check out sites like Sina: 我会经常翻看新浪等网站（这里的新闻网站可以按照自己喜欢的来说）
50
To each their own: 每个人的喜好都不同
51
kids should be allowed to be kids：孩子就应该是孩子的样子
52
branch out：扩大范围
Topic 7. 新建的公共设施
1.Are public facilities important?
Yes, I believe public facilities are key when it comes to a healthy and happy society. Some of them
meet our basic needs, like hospitals, while others help with our sense of security and safety, like
police stations. Without those two, it would be hard to live peacefully. Plus, some others lend a hand
in building community, like libraries. Without public facilities, it’s much harder for society to
function the way it should53.
2. What are the public facilities near your home?

Well, I don’t live downtown, so there aren’t too many public facilities around. I know for sure there’s
a hospital nearby, which is a big relief54 in case I ever get injured. It’s good to know that help is just
a hop, skip, and a jump away55. And there might be a police station close by too, which also sets my
mind at ease. It definitely makes me feel a lot safer when I sleep at night.
3. What are the differences between public facilities used by young people and old people?
I think young people tend to use public facilities that match their lifestyles, which in their case are
very active and engaging. So they tend to use recreational centers or public gyms. Anywhere they can
work up a sweat is usually a good place for them. On the flip side56, old people use more basic
facilities like libraries. They enjoy more relaxed places where they can just wind down and enjoy
some peace and quiet.
见下页
53
to function the way it should: (社会)以其应有的方式运行
54
a big relief：心里会轻松很多
55
a hop, skip, and a jump away：近在咫尺，形容距离很近
56
On the flip side：另一方面，反过来说
4. Are new public facilities better than old ones?

I suppose that it’s safe to say57 new public facilities are better than old ones. Since they’re more up-
to-date, their quality is worlds away from58 that of the run-down facilities. When it comes to facilities
like hospitals in particular, quality is super important. But that doesn’t mean we should get rid of all
the old facilities. You don’t want to throw the baby out with the bathwater59. Those places can still
have uses.
5. What’s the difference between facilities in the countryside and the ones in the cities?
I think facilities in the countryside are more basic. You know, you’d probably just have hospitals and
police stations but nothing more up-to-date like gyms or recreational centers. They’re probably not
as high-quality either, since there aren’t as many people in the countryside as there are in the cities
so nicer, more expensive equipment is harder to afford. But when it comes to cities, public facilities
usually need to cater to a larger number of people, so they have to be bigger in terms of both size and
quantity.
57
it’s safe to say：可以很肯定的说（P2 素材中也有同样表述，注意素材积累灵活运用）
58
worlds away from：距离很远，表示二者差异大
59
You don’t want to throw the baby out with the bathwater：在丢掉某个东西时，不要把其有价值的东西也丢掉。
Topic 8. 保持健康的方式
1. How should schools teach students to live healthily?
I think schools can teach students to live healthily by keeping them informed. For instance, they can
explain what kinds of foods are best to eat and how to properly exercise to stay fit. They can also
include that kind of information in science classes. If kids know more about how their bodies work
through studying biology, they can figure out how to treat their body in order to keep things running
smoothly60.
2. What do people usually do to maintain their health?

As far as I know, the two main things people do to maintain their health are exercising and eating
right. The first one is super important. Keeping a nice body shape is good not only for appearances,
but for your overall health. Your weight can become an issue if you don’t keep it in check61. But it’s
also important to eat the right kinds of foods, like fruits and vegetables. Nutritional foods can provide
all the vitamins you need as well as enough calories.
3. Is health education important?

Yes, health education is definitely important, especially for younger and more impressionable
students. They need to learn at an early age how to take care of themselves, or they run the risk of62
developing unhealthy habits that can negatively impact their health in the long run63. So learning
about what kinds of foods to eat and how to exercise the right way is key for individuals’ health.
Health education is the first step in creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
见下页
60
keep things running smoothly：在这里指的是保持健康（让身体机能顺利运行）
61
keep it in check：控制（体重）
62
run the risk of: 冒着…的风险
63
in the long run：从长远来看
4. What kinds of lifestyles are unhealthy?

Well, off the top of my head, I guess I’d have to say that a sedentary lifestyle64 is pretty unhealthy.
It’s not good to just lie around all day without exercising. It can make you less fit or even have back
pain. You also need to eat properly, so lifestyles full of over-eating are also bad for your health.
Basically, to stay healthy you need to exercise and eat good food. Otherwise, you might end up
developing lots of different health issues.
5. What can doctors do to help people solve health-related problems?

The first thing that comes to mind is giving patients medicine. Different kinds of medicines can be
used to solve a wide variety of illnesses and other health-related problems. Another thing doctors can
do to help people with health issues is giving them instructions for their daily life. For example, they
can suggest types of exercises to help with muscle pain. At the end of the day65, doctors really are
life-savers.
64
a sedentary lifestyle：久坐不动的生活方式
65
At the end of the day：总体来说（综合所有考虑的因素）
Topic 9. 户外活动
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of playing outdoor sports?
Honestly, sports really aren’t my cup of tea so I might be a little biased. But if I have to think of
advantages, I guess one is that you usually have much larger areas to play in. Another advantage is
that you get fresh air while you play. But the downsides would be that you’re subject to the weather,
which can change on a dime66. It would suck67 to be caught in a downpour.
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of playing indoor sports?

Off the top of my head, I would say that the advantages are that the environment is way cleaner and
more controlled than it is outside. When you’re playing outdoors, you have to deal with inclement
weather68. But inside, you can manage the temperature and you don’t have to worry about getting too
dirty. But on the flip side, indoor sports can often get crowded since facilities tend to be small.
3. What sports involve teamwork?

There are tons of sports that require you to be a team player. I’m not exactly an expert when it comes
to sports, but I can think of a few like basketball, soccer, and volleyball. Those ones obviously require
teams. But there are also smaller-scale sports like badminton, which involves teamwork when you
play it in pairs. In all of those sports, you have to trust your teammates and make sure you work well
together.
4. What kinds of outdoor sports are popular in your country?

I’m not a giant fan of outdoor sports, but a lot of my friends are. As far as I know, badminton and
volleyball are really popular, especially in the summer. During the last summer holiday, some people
I know actually set up a badminton tournament69. It was a blast just to watch them all go at it70. I
guess another one would be soccer. It’s probably a good way to blow off steam but I’d rather just
watch.
见下页
66
change on a dime：天气变化很快，说变就变
67
suck：糟糕的
68
inclement weather: 恶劣天气
69
set up a badminton tournament：安排了一场羽毛球比赛
70
go at it：以很大的热情努力做某事
5. Which one is more exciting, indoor sports or outdoor sports?

Personally, I think outdoor sports are a lot more exciting. As far as I know, many outdoor sports are
more intense than indoor sports. And people also get more active and adventurous when they’re
outside. For example, a ton of people like playing football because you get to run in a really large
field as well as have a lot of fun playing against the other team. In contrast, many indoor games like
yoga or dancing are less competitive than outdoor sports.
Topic 10. 想做但没时间做的事

1. Is time management important?
Time management is super important, especially if you’re a student. In order to juggle all your
assignments well71, you have to make and stick to a schedule. It’s not that easy to plan out your time,
but once you get the hang of it72, you realize that time management is such a life-saver. It helps people
get things done on time and avoid procrastinating. It really comes in handy73 when it comes to getting
good grades.
2. What are the effective ways to manage time?

The first thing that comes to mind is making a to-do list. When you have a ton of stuff to do, you
should order them from most important to least important. Then, starting at the top, you can work
your way down74 so you get your high-priority tasks done first. Another effective way to manage time
is getting rid of distractions. Turn off your phone or anything else that isn’t helping you focus.
3. Which kinds of things will occupy a whole day for people?

Well this is a tricky question…Actually now people are always tied up with their work or study, so
they spend most of their time on their schoolwork or jobs. Another thing I can think of is that young
couples often spend a whole day on a date. You know, lots of young guys want to have a full-on
experience when it comes to a date. So as far as I know, young couples do a lot of fun activities with
their partner during a day, like having a good meal, watching a movie, or going shopping. All of those
cost time.
4. Do you think most people can manage their time well?

I suppose that in general, most people can manage their time well. I’m thinking more of adults, who
have had more experience and know how to schedule better. You know, most Chinese adults don’t
have that much free time; many of them need to work overtime as well as run errands after work75.
So they have to know how to make the most of the free time they have. If you think of it this way,
you’ll find that many people are really good at handling their time.
见下页
71
juggle all your assignments well：把所有作业都安排好
72
get the hang of it：掌握了窍门
73
comes in handy：非常有用
74
work your way down：挨个处理下去
75
run errands after work: 下班后又有很多琐事
5. What do old people and young people do during their free time?
Well, as far as I know, a ton of elders in China love square dancing. It’s a kind of group dance that
many Chinese people love doing in an open space. It’s quite popular among seniors. And it’s a very
healthy activity both physically and mentally. When it comes to young people, I think what they do
the most to kill free time is playing cellphone games. Honestly, many people my age look at screens
day in and day out, which is really a decadence76.
6. Apart from study and work, is it necessary to have time for relaxing?
Yes, it’s really important to have time to just kick back and relax. Work and study are definitely
important because they keep us productive and help maintain our livelihood, but if we don’t have
time to unwind77, we might press ourselves until we break. Relaxing is good for our physical and
mental health. Nobody wants to overwork themselves. Sometimes the best thing you can do for
yourself is take time to wind down.
76
a decadence：颓废、堕落
77
unwind：放松
Topic 11. 收到自己恰好需要的礼物

1. Do you often receive gifts that you want?
Yes, I do! I’m very lucky to have people in my life who know me well and can pick out great gifts. For
example, my friends got me a pair of expensive headphones for my birthday. It was the exact pair that I
had been eyeing for78 a long time. I felt over the moon that my friends knew me so well. Most of the
time, they’re really on the ball79 when it comes to giving me gifts.
2. What things do young people like to buy?

I suppose young people like buying things according to the latest trends. For example, a lot of my friends
try to keep up with the newest styles by buying fashionable clothes and accessories, or even technological
gadgets80. These things make young people feel better about themselves because they’re putting their
best foot forward81 and leaving a good impression on people. Plus, it’s just nice to treat yourself every
once in a while82.
3. Why do people buy things that are not necessary？
Well, sometimes it’s not about getting what you need – it’s just about getting what you want. Every now
and then, it’s nice to treat yourself. Sometimes these things make people feel better about themselves.
After all, if you can afford to buy things that aren’t absolutely necessary, then it shows you’re pretty
well-off83. Plus, some luxury items can just make life more enjoyable or convenient. It’s not so bad to
spend money on stuff like that.
见下页
78
had been eyeing for：一直关注的
79
on the ball：（在为我选礼物这件事上）朋友们都很厉害，很聪明，知道我想要什么。
80
technological gadgets：科技产品
81
putting their best foot forward：尽力体现出自己完美的状态
82
treat yourself every once in a while: 偶尔犒劳一下自己
83
well-off：富裕的，家里还是有点矿的
4. Can shopping promote a country’s economy?

Yeah, I definitely think shopping can help promote a country’s economy. If there are tons of important
businesses in a country, they can attract lots of people to work or shop with them. In the long run84, this
helps boost the economy on a local and then a national scale. Even though it might seem like a carefree
activity, shopping is very vital in that way. I believe that every country should have a healthy shopping
industry.
5. Do your friends influence your shopping choices?

Yeah, my friends definitely influence what I buy, at least to a certain extent. I’m an introvert but my
friends are more extroverted, so when it comes to clothes, they get me to try on brighter colors and
flashier outfits than I would normally be drawn to85. In that way, they help me get out of my comfort
zone and try new things. Then when something looks good on me, they kind of talk me into86 buying it.
6. Is advertising important? Why do many famous brands still need to advertise heavily?
Yes, advertising is super important. It makes people aware of a company’s products, not only by
displaying their appearances but also explaining what each product does and why the customer should
buy it. Without advertising, there’s basically no way of getting customers on a daily basis. Lots of famous
brands still have to advertise because they need to stay relevant and attract new customers, especially
younger generations that might not be as familiar with them.
84
In the long run：从长远来看
85
be drawn to：被…吸引
86
talk me into：说服我…
Topic 12. 买了却不经常用的东西

1. Can shopping boost an economy?
I believe shopping can definitely boost an economy. Granted 87 , I don’t really have a head for 88
financial stuff. But from my perspective, I think that shopping contributes positively to the economy
because sales can help grow businesses. When there are lots of businesses, the economy naturally
grows and everyone benefits from it. That being said89, you have to take what I say with a grain of
salt90. I’m not an expert on the subject.
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of shopping at a mall?

Well, I’m a pretty avid shopper91, so the advantages are easy to think of. The first one I want to
mention is variety. When you go to a mall, there are lots of different stores to browse around in.
Another advantage is convenience since you don’t have to waste time going from place to place. But
in terms of disadvantages, I guess one is that shopping malls can get super crowded. During the
holidays, people are packed in like sardines92.
3. Which one is more important for buying an item, quality or price?

I think quality is definitely more important when it comes to buying something. I get it when people
are tight with their budgets93; after all, money doesn’t grow on trees94. But it’s more important to
focus on the quality. If you buy something high-quality, you won’t have to spend extra money
replacing it. So in a way95, it actually saves you money. As my parents always say, a penny saved is
a penny earned96.
见下页
87
Granted：表示后文要说的是真实的，相当于说 it is true/honestly
88
have a head for: 擅长，对…了解
89
That being said：话虽这么说（转折时候可积累的表达）
90
with a grain of salt：（你可以对我说的）持保留态度，整体后半句可以做积累，在你对某话题领域不熟悉的时候，可以这
样说。“我不懂这个领域，所以我说的你也可以持怀疑态度。”
91
pretty avid shopper：狂热的爱逛街的人
92
packed in like sardines：非常拥挤，像罐头里的沙丁鱼
93
tight with their budgets：预算紧张，没有钱
94
money doesn’t grow on trees：钱不是大风刮来的
95
in a way：在某种程度上说
96
a penny saved is a penny earned：省一分就是赚一分
4. Are used items recycled in your country? Is it common?

I’m not too sure, but I think it’s pretty common for used items to be recycled in China. A lot of items
can be recycled and resold for money, such as aluminum cans97, paper, or plastic bottles. And it’s
pretty common in China. Actually nowadays people are way more environmentally conscious98 than
they used to be. So it’s a great thing that we find ways to help protect the environment. I suppose that
recycling is a small way for everyone to help share a huge responsibility.
5. Do you pay attention to environmental protection?

Honestly, I probably don’t pay as much attention as I should when it comes to environmental
protection. Sometimes I read articles about movements that are meant to help the environment, but I
couldn’t tell you one off the top of my head. Personally I just try to stay aware about99 how I can
change my habits to help out the earth. For example, I use public transportation whenever I can and
I recycle all my used items.
97
aluminum cans: 铝制罐（易拉罐）
98
way more environmentally conscious: 更有环保意识
99
stay aware about：随时注意
Topic 13. 一次设备坏掉的经历

1. What are the common useful home appliances that people often use these days?
There are tons, but the first one that comes to mind is a microwave. As a student, I use a microwave day
in and day out to warm up leftovers100, whether it’s food that I made or food that I bought from a takeout
place. Plus, you can actually cook using a microwave. My favorite dish to make in a microwave is instant
noodles. And…some other helpful home appliances are toasters101 and coffee-makers.
2. Are you good at handling problems on your own?

Well, that honestly depends on what the problem is. If it’s something to do with my personal life, I can
usually sort it out102 on my own. I’m pretty good at settling conflicts103 that come up between me and
my family or friends. But if it’s something that requires a lot of experience, especially if it’s a mechanical
issue, then I have to call my parents, or even an expert if the problem’s pretty bad.
3. What do people feel when they buy new equipment?

I think a lot of people feel really pleased when they buy new equipment. It’s a way of treating
themselves104, even if it’s a necessary replacement. For example, I felt really happy when I bought a new
rice cooker105. The old one made the rice too dry, so getting a new one made my day106 because it meant
better-made meals. Plus, it was nice to be able to afford a replacement. It made me feel very
accomplished107.见下页
100
leftovers：剩饭剩菜
101
toasters: 烤面包片机
102
sort it out：解决掉
103
settling conflicts：解决冲突
104
treating themselves：犒劳自己(他们)
105
rice cooker: 注意此处用到了 P2 的素材（三个 Part 尽可能充分灵活运用）但是大家可以根据自己喜好来替换此处例子。
106
made my day：让我很高兴
107
accomplished：很有成就感
4. Do you think modern technology makes people lazier?

Well, yes…I suppose that back in the olden days, when people had to do a lot of basic tasks themselves,
it made them more hard-working and dedicated. But now that everything is designed to be as convenient
as possible, people tend to be a lot lazier when it comes to handling business in their everyday lives108.
They don’t want to do something themselves if a machine can do it for them. It’s a real pity when you
think about it.
5. When an electronic item of yours does not work, would you repair it or buy a new one?
Well, I generally try to repair an electronic item if it doesn’t work. For example, I recently broke the
display on my laptop. Fixing it wasn’t exactly cheap, but buying a new one would’ve cost me an arm
and a leg109. So I decided that it was worth it to invest in my current laptop since it was still working
fine, other than the screen. I think in the end, that’s usually the best option.
108
handling business in their everyday lives：处理日常琐事
109
cost me an arm and a leg: 花费大笔钱
Topic 14. 抱怨但有好结果

1. Do people often complain? What do they often complain about?
Yeah, I suppose people complain pretty often. Nowadays, people are used to convenience and
efficiency. So when something is slow or broken, people can blow their temper at the
inconvenience110. For example, my sister went on a giant rant111 because her phone wasn’t working
properly. Plus, I know a lot of people who just complain when things don’t go their way, like when
they don’t get a promotion they were hoping for.
2. Do complaints really work? Can complaints help solve problems?

Well, in some cases I believe complaints can solve problems. For example, when it comes to an issue
with a company or a manufacturer, if enough people complain about the same issue they’ll probably
work on addressing it faster112. So in those kinds of situations, complaints can actually work. But I
think for the most part, complaints are kind of unnecessary. It’s better to try and address things in a
positive manner.
3. Do young people complain more than old people?

Personally, I guess old people are more likely to complain. I think that today’s young people are more
willing to try to work through problems instead of just complaining about them. But I know tons of
old people are very quick to complain if something doesn’t go their way. They’re used to a certain
way of life and they complain when things change.
见下页
110
blow their temper at the inconvenience：因其不便利性而生气
111
a giant rant：大吼起来
112
addressing it faster：解决的更快
4. Which is better, a face-to-face complaint or a complaint letter?

It seems to me that a face-to-face complaint is usually better than a complaint letter. If you present
your complaint in person113, you can better explain yourself to the person you’re complaining to.
Sometimes you can get your issue resolved on the spot 114 , and you can have a more positive
experience in person than getting an impersonal115 reply to a letter. But on the flip side116, you might
lose your temper117 more easily depending on how the interaction goes.
5. Why do companies need to solve customers’ complaints actively and quickly?

Well, I suppose companies need to solve customers’ complaints actively and quickly in order to
protect their reputation. After all, no one will want to do business with a company that can’t handle
issues and solve customers’ problems. You want a company that’s reliable and trustworthy to handle
your business needs. If companies can’t solve complaints, then they’ll probably experience a dip in
sales and might even go bankrupt. So companies definitely need to prioritize118 this.
113
in person: 面对面，当面
114
on the spot：立刻，当下
115
impersonal：没有人情味的
116
on the flip side：反过来说
117
lose your temper：发脾气
118
prioritize：首先处理，优先处理
Topic 15. 被骗的经历

1. In which circumstances do people tell white lies?
It sounds kind of funny, but I think that119 people usually only tell white lies to be polite. For example,
you might not like your friend’s outfit, but you might tell a white lie and say that you do because you
don’t want to hurt their feelings. After all, you attract more flies with honey than with vinegar120.
Besides, some people tell white lies to their family to keep them from being worried121. I remember
that when my parents called me to see how I was doing, I always told them I was good even though
sometimes I was not.
2. Is telling small lies harmful? Is telling small lies a big deal?

I like to think that I’m an honest person, but I suppose that telling small lies isn’t that bad in the right
situation. Sometimes you don’t want to hurt other people’s feelings or step on their toes122, so you try
to lie your way around it. If it’s just to be polite I don’t think it’s a big deal, but telling small lies can
add up to bigger problems. As we all know, to hide a lie, a thousand lies are needed. So it’s best to
be honest whenever you can.
3. Do you think is it okay to lie? What is the harm of lying?

Well, I don’t think it’s okay to lie in all circumstances. Sometimes it happens, but you should try to
avoid it. The harm of lying is that it can lead to people’s feelings getting hurt if they find out you
weren’t telling the truth. And telling lies not only hurts people, but also causes them to lose trust in
you. Once people know you are a liar, they can hardly believe you anymore.
见下页
119
It sounds kind of funny, but I think that：听起来（这个观点）可能有点可笑，但是…；这里也是一类开头回答方式。注意
素材中对于不同回答方式的总结哦~
120
you attract more flies with honey than with vinegar：好话（蜜）比尖酸刻薄要好得多
121
keep them from being worried：尽量不让家人担心
122
step on their toes：冒犯他人
4. Which modern techniques can help police solve a crime case?

Nowadays, technology is worlds away from what it used to be. When it comes to solving crimes,
there’s all kinds of cool gadgets and gizmos123 that can help the police. For example, examining DNA
from a crime scene124 can usually help officers track down 125 the criminal. Another cool modern
technique is having surveillance126 in public places. If a robbery takes place, the store usually has
security footage127 that shows whoever is responsible for the crime.
5. Do you think it’s important to teach children to be honest?

Yes, it’s definitely important to teach children to be honest. Even though there are some situations
where they’ll want to lie, they should learn that honesty is the best policy. If they don’t learn that,
they might think it’s okay to tell lies just to get what they want. That’s definitely a bad behavior that
can negatively affect their relationships in the future. It’s up to parents to teach them right from
wrong128 and make sure they know not to lie.
6. Some people say that liars are those who have a good memory; what do you think?
Well, I’ve never actually heard that expression before. But I guess it makes sense129. If you lie a lot,
you’d have to have a good memory to stay on your toes and not get caught130. I have watched several
detective dramas, and liars in the dramas have to remember all the details they lied about or they will
be easily found out. So maybe there’s some truth behind it131. Personally, I try not to lie, so I don’t
have a lot of experience on the subject132.
123
gadgets and gizmos：工具和装置
124
a crime scene：犯罪现场
125
track down：追查，追捕
126
surveillance：监控
127
security footage：安保录像
128
teach them right from wrong: 教他们明辨是非
129
I’ve never actually heard that expression before. But I guess it makes sense：我没有听过这种说法，但是我觉得是有道理的
（可积累的 P3 回答方式）
130
stay on your toes and not get caught：保持警惕，别被发觉
131
maybe there’s some truth behind it：这其中应该是有一些道理的
132
I don’t have a lot of experience on the subject：我对这个话题不是很有经验，不是很了解（同样是可积累的 P3 回答方式）
Topic 16. 糟糕的服务体验

1. What kinds of service are bad service?
Thankfully I haven’t experienced a lot of bad service in my lifetime, but I would say that bad service
is anything that makes the customer uncomfortable or upset. For example, if a staff member is
impolite or ticks you off133, then they’re not doing their job right. Service should be friendly and
helpful. Employees should assist you with your problem in the best way possible134. This also includes
being efficient and effective.
2. What would most people do when they have bad service?
I think most people would be impatient or even angry if they get bad service. People come to expect
professionalism and cooperation from staff members, so if they get anything less they can easily lose
their cool. And many of them would complain about the service issue to the managers or supervisors
of the place. Plus, nowadays it’s so easy to write a bad review on the internet. And tons of people,
especially young guys, would choose to share their feedback about the terrible service they had on
social media.
3. Why do some people choose to remain silent when they receive bad service?
In my opinion, some people just don’t want to get staff members in trouble. I always feel bad reporting
an employee for bad service. Even though it was their fault, I don’t like being responsible for what
may happen to them. I would feel awful if someone got fired just because I spoke up. So I guess a lot
of people think that way as well. But it’s also possible they just don’t think it’s worth the trouble.
After all, making a complaint can cost a lot of time and might not solve the problem.
见下页
133
ticks you off: 把你惹生气
134
assist you with your problem in the best way possible：尽可能以最好的方式帮你解决问题
4. What can a company do to promote service?

I’m no expert, but I believe there are definitely some easy ways for companies to improve their service.
The first one that comes to mind is doing employee training specifically for good service. This would
involve teaching all staff members how to be polite, friendly, and helpful when helping out customers.
Another way is having customer feedback available. If people can talk about their experiences at the
company, then the company can use those reports to improve any problem areas.
5. What kinds of jobs require good service?

I think jobs that involve working face-to-face with customers require good service. Off the top of my
head, a good example is a salesperson. Whether you’re selling clothes or cars, you have to interact
with the customer and give them any help they might need. Since all your interactions are in person,
you have to be friendly and polite. A lot of sales jobs include commissions135, so that motivates you
to step up136 your service to get good wages.
135
commissions：赚提成
136
step up: 提高（服务质量）
Topic 17. 家族企业

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a family business?
I believe one main advantage is that you have way more control over how business is carried out.
When it’s a small, family-owned business, the day-to-day stuff is all under the family’s control.
Another advantage is that you can build the business from the ground up137 and have that satisfaction
to yourself. But the disadvantage is that you can run into personal conflicts easier. When you are
working with the people closest to you, the disputes 138 in business may damage your family
relationships.
2. What qualities does a successful businessman need?

I think a successful businessman needs to have ambition and confidence. They need to have clear
goals and pursue them, which requires both of those qualities. Additionally, they have to have good
people skills. A lot of business comes from successful relationships with clients and other companies.
Plus, I believe a successful businessman also needs to have a good head for numbers139. They should
know about as many aspects of business as they can.
3. Do people like to work for a big company or a small company?

I guess people like working for small companies better. Even though the job might not come with as
many perks as a big company could offer, I think there are more opportunities to become close with
coworkers and have a more welcoming work environment. Big companies can be too concerned with
making a profit and neglect their employees in the process, but in general small companies usually
value their employees more.
见下页
137
from the ground up：彻底的，从头到尾的
138
disputes：争吵，争论
139
have a good head for numbers: 对数字敏感
4. What conditions are needed to start up a business?

I suppose you140 need to have lots of financial resources and a great team of employees. It’s very hard
to start up a business by yourself and without a lot of money. You need people you can trust to work
hard and do well. You also need a great business plan to set yourself apart from141 other companies.
I don’t think I’d be able to start up a business myself, but those are the things I think you need.
5. Do you think globalization is a positive development?

Well, I believe there are definitely pros and cons, but overall globalization seems to be a positive
development. For one, it helps expose people to new and different cultures. In this way, they can
broaden their horizons and become more sympathetic to people from other countries. Globalization
can also help boost national economies and increase a country’s international trades. But every rose
has its thorn142, one downside I know is that it may decrease the number of jobs and wages because
of a cheaper foreign workforce.
140
you：注意这里的 you 不是指此刻问你问题的人，而是泛指人们
141
set yourself apart from…：让你自己能和别人与众不同
142
every rose has its thorn: 没有不带刺的玫瑰，事物都有优缺点
Topic 18. 有趣的演讲

1. Is it important to be a good listener?
Yeah, I think it’s definitely important to be a good listener. For one, it can teach you sympathy and
empathy143. If you’re hearing someone else’s point of view, it can help you become a better, well-
rounded person144. Another reason why it’s important is that it helps you build stronger friendships.
People appreciate it when you make them feel heard. It’s a way for you to gain their trust and
understand them better.
2. How to be a good listener?

You can be a good listener by letting the person express themselves fully without interrupting. Even
though it can be tempting to butt in145 and give your own opinion on what they’re saying, it’s much
better to just sit back and listen to them. Another way to be a good listener is to avoid being distracted
and give the person your full attention. The speaker will be more focused when they see you are
listening carefully.
3. What techniques do you use to remember content when you are listening a speech?
Honestly my memory isn’t the most reliable, but there are a couple techniques I use to remember
things when I’m listening to a speech. The first one is relating things the speaker says back to my
own personal life. If something they say reminds me of a person in my life, I use a mental association
to remember the info. Another technique is making quick notes. As people always say, the palest ink
is better than the best memory146.
见下页
143
sympathy and empathy: 感同身受，有同情心和同理心
144
well-rounded person：更全面发展的人
145
butt in：插嘴
146
the palest ink is better than the best memory：好记性不如烂笔头
4. What kind of jobs require the skill of speaking in public?

There are definitely lots of jobs that require you to be able to speak well in public. The first one that
comes to mind is a teacher or professor. You have to able to give a lesson to tons of people, whether
they’re high school or university students. Another job that I can think of off the top of my head is an
activist147. Sometimes you have to give speeches about your cause to giant crowds148.
5. What is required to be a good public speaker? Is confidence important?

I think that in order to be a good public speaker, you definitely have to be confident. If you aren’t
sure of yourself, it’ll show and people won’t be as engaged with your speech. Another important
quality is having a clear, loud voice that can reach crowds. It’s good not to stutter149 or trip over your
words150. I believe a lot of it comes with practice. After all, practice makes perfect151.
147
activist：自由言论的积极分子
148
giant crowds: 一大群人
149
stutter：结结巴巴
150
trip over your words: 说错话
151
practice makes perfect：熟能生巧
Topic 19. 想见的有趣的人

1. How do people make friends nowadays?
Well, at least for my generation, I think people make friends online or through other people. It’s not as
common for young people nowadays to go out to new places and just strike up a conversation with a
stranger152. But when it comes to older people, I guess they make friends through their workplaces.
After all, you spend so much time together that it’s hard not to153 get to know each other.
2. Why do some people feel lonely even though they have many friends?
Well, that’s hard to say. But I suppose some people feel lonely even though they have lots of friends
because having a real connection is still pretty hard, even when you know lots of people. It’s about
quality, not quantity. You can have lots of friends, but it’s possible for none of them to really connect
with you. So when you find that no one around really understands you, you may feel very lonely.
3. How can you judge people’s personality or characteristics by the way they dress?
Well, it’s not always good to make assumptions, but I suppose that in general, people with more
introverted personalities avoid wearing flashy clothes154. They don’t like colors that draw attention to
themselves, so they stick to discreet155 ones like blue or grey. Meanwhile, more outgoing people like
wearing bright colors like red and orange, or even green and yellow. They also like outfits that make
them the centre of attention.
见下页
152
strike up a conversation with a stranger：和陌生人聊天，搭讪
153
it’s hard not to：…是很难避免的一件事
154
flashy clothes：特别花哨的衣服
155
discreet：低调的
4. If you have a new co-worker or a new classmate, how can you help them adapt to the new
environment?
Well, I think whether it’s a new co-worker or a new classmate, the most important thing is making the
person feel welcome. So you can do that by being friendly and helping them with any questions they
might have. Another thing you can do to help someone adapt to a new environment is learn more about
their preferences so you can help them feel at home. For example, if they are foodies, share some snacks
with them.
5. Do you prefer to expand your social circle or be friends with a small group of people?
Personally, I’m a bit of an introvert, so I’m much more at home with a small group of people instead
of trying to expand my social circle. I really think that it’s about quality, not quantity, so I try to focus
on having a tight circle of friends156 instead of making tons of acquaintances157. When you’re friends
with158 a small group of people, it’s easier to get to know each other better.
6. What should you be careful about when you make friends on the internet?
Well, the first thing is to make sure that people are who they say they are159. The internet makes it easy
for people to lie about their identities; you hear in the news all the time about grown men pretending
to be young so they can befriend teen girls. It’s very concerning. For those kinds of reasons, you should
also not give them all your personal information in case they turn out to be dangerous.
156
having a tight circle of friends：身边有几个老铁
157
acquaintances：泛泛之交
158
you’re friends with: 和…是朋友
159
people are who they say they are：（要确保）本人是真如其所说的那样
Topic 20. 收到钱作为礼物

1. When do you think children start to have a concept of money? / When do they think money
is important?
I suppose children start to have a concept of money as soon as they want to get something themselves.
For example, if they want a toy but their parents won’t buy it for them, it makes them think about
how they can get it on their own, which means understanding the idea of money and how much things
cost. That’s when money starts to become important to them. In my experience, that usually happens
around age six or seven.
2. Is it a bad thing to reward children by giving them money?

I don’t think it’s bad at all! If you’re smart about it, you can teach kids how to manage the money
that they get as a reward and even save it up for the future. In that way, you can help them become
responsible spenders so as they grow up160, they can take care of themselves and all their material
needs. I believe it can be very positive to give kids money, especially for doing important things like
chores.
3. In your country, do parents give children money for doing housework?

No, I don't think so. Maybe a few parents do that, but most Chinese parents don't reward their kids
with money just because they help do the chores. As far as I know, none of my childhood friends ever
mentioned that their parents gave them extra allowance161 for doing chores at home. Believe me, if
they had, I would know. Anyway, I think it’s mainly because in Chinese families, giving your parents
a hand with household chores is part of children’s responsibility in the house. At least that’s how our
generation was raised162.
见下页
160
so as they grow up：随着他们的成长，随着他们不断长大
161
extra allowance: 额外的零花钱
162
that’s how our generation was raised：我们这一代是这样长大的
4. What are the pros and cons of credit cards?

One pro is that they’re convenient and easy to use. You just have to slide it on POS machine and enter
your PIN number163. Another advantage is that credit cards are actually safer than cash. When it’s
stolen, it can’t be used unless they know your PIN number. But that’s actually also a con; it can slip
your mind164 that you have to pay your bill and you can end up being charged165.
5. Which payment method do people use more nowadays, credit cards or cash?
I believe people use credit cards way more than cash. For one, credit cards are pretty convenient. You
don’t have to carry wads of cash166 around; you just have to worry about a thin piece of plastic. Plus,
you don’t have to pay off your credit card right away, which is very appealing for some people.
Personally, I only use cash once in a blue moon. Credit cards are just way faster in my opinion.
163
PIN number：也就是我们常说的密码，但是在英语里和 password 是不同的
164
slip your mind：忘记…
165
end up being charged：（逾期不交）会被收费
166
wads of cash：很多现金
Topic 21. 借东西

1. Why do some people like to borrow things, such as books and CDs, instead of buying them?
Well, for one, borrowing things is a lot cheaper than buying them. People nowadays can be very tight
with their budgets167. After all, money doesn’t grow on trees168. Secondly, if you’re not sure if you’ll
like something, like a book or a CD, it’s nice to just borrow it so that you aren’t stuck with it after if
it’s not your cup of tea. That’s why libraries are so popular for borrowing books.
2. What would you do if people didn’t return the money they borrowed from you? What if the
borrower was your best friend?
Well, if someone didn’t return the money they borrowed from me, my first response would probably
be to talk to them about it. If it’s been a while and they still haven’t repaid their debt, I would try to
sit down and chat about it so that we can figure the problem out169. I would try not to blow my top170;
that doesn’t help anyone out. If they were my best friend, I honestly wouldn’t mind. I’d give them
anything, ha-ha.
3. Why are people embarrassed when they borrow money from others?
Well, I guess many people are too proud to ask for money because they think asking for it means
they’re too dependent on others. And I believe some people think borrowing money from others
makes them look desperate or foolish. For example, my sister wanted to borrow money from my
parents so she could buy a nice outfit, but she was pretty embarrassed that she hadn’t saved enough
money on her own.
见下页
167
be very tight with their budgets：预算很紧张，都省着花
168
money doesn’t grow on trees：钱不是大风刮来的
169
figure the problem out：解决掉问题
170
blow my top：生气，大发雷霆
4. What do you think of the sharing economy?

Well, when it comes to the sharing economy, the first instance of it I can think of is definitely bike-
sharing171. In Chinese cities, no matter where you go, you see tons of shared bikes parked on the
sidewalk. It’s convenient and the cost is dirt-cheap. But I suppose the sharing economy still has
imperfections172. For example, a typical problem of bike-sharing is the oversupply of bikes. It not
only occupies a lot of public spaces, but also actually wastes so many resources.
5. What problems would happen when people borrow things?

Well, the first problem that comes to mind is that sometimes people can forget to return what they
borrow. For example, I lent my friend Lisa my favorite book so she could read it, and it took three
years for her to return it! Every time I asked for it back, she said she would bring it the next time we
hung out, but she always forgot. I swear she’d lose her head if it wasn’t attached to her shoulders173!
6. What things would neighbors borrow from each other? (Things they can return)/ Is it good
to borrow things from neighbors?
Well, in my experience, neighbors usually borrow small things, like a tool for repairs or some
kitchenware when they’re in a pinch174. One time, my neighbor was baking a chicken but her baking
bowl was suddenly broken. So my parents lent her our baking pans that she needed at the time. I think
it’s nothing bad to borrow something from your neighbors as long as you can return it in time. And I
believe it helps neighbors to understand and build trust between each other. If you can help them out
when you can, they will give you a hand when you need help.
171
bike-sharing: 共享单车
172
imperfections：缺陷
173
she’d lose her head if it wasn’t attached to her shoulders: 俚语，比喻的说法，形容要不是脑袋长身上，怕是头也能忘家里。
形容一个人老忘事儿。
174
in a pinch：在紧急的时候，在正需要的时候
Topic 22. 开心经历（低频疑似在考题）

1. What are the connections between money and happiness?’
Well, you know what they say – money can’t buy happiness. But I think that having money means
you can have a comfortable life, and you can afford things that make you happy. For example, for
people who are bookworms, buying books actually brings them a lot of joy. Plus, with money you
can give your loved ones gifts, which from personal experience can make you really happy.
2. Do most people think that money is important?

Yeah, I’d say so. Actually a lot of people believe money is the key to a successful life, but as I said
just now, money can’t buy happiness. You can’t depend on having money that much175; it’ll just let
you down in the end. But in my opinion, people think money is important because it helps them lead
a comfortable life and meet their basic needs. So in that way, having enough money is definitely a
must.
3. Are rich people happier than poor people?

Well, this is definitely a tough question to answer. On the one hand, money can buy external things176,
but true happiness comes from inside. So people shouldn’t assume that the rich are happier than the
poor. But on the other hand, people are generally happier when they don’t have to worry about making
ends meet. When you’re not living paycheck to paycheck177, you can focus more on building healthy
and happy relationships, which brings you a lot of joy in the long run.
见下页
175
that much: 表示程度，太过于依靠…(素材中有很多类似的小词，有疑问联系 Penny)
176
external things: 身外之物
177
living paycheck to paycheck: 靠薪水生活
4. Does work make people feel happy?
I’d say it depends on what kind of work they’re doing. A lot of people believe that if you love what
you do, you’ll never work a day178 in your life. So if people are doing work that they’re passionate
about and really interested in, then I’m sure their work will make them feel over the moon. But if
people hate their job, it’ll just make them miserable179.
5. What are the differences between happiness from money and happiness from socializing?
I think the happiness that comes from money is very self-centered180. People tend to spend money on
themselves, so they’re the only ones who really gain anything. But happiness that comes from
socializing benefits everyone involved. For example, when people have a blast at a party, it’s because
they’re all talking to each other and sharing their experiences. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.
178
work a day: 平淡的
179
miserable: 很痛苦
180
self-centered: 自我中心的、利己主义的
Topic 23. 改变计划/想法

1. What are the main reasons that make people change their mind?
Well, it depends on the situation. Sometimes, I think that people change their mind when they receive
advice. For example, if someone wants to move out, but a friend they trust tells them it would be a
bad idea, then that person will probably change their mind about it. But sometimes, they change their
mind because the circumstances change. Those are usually outside of people’s control181.
2. What would you do if you need to convince someone to change their mind or plan?
I would try to be as logical as possible. It’s important to know and stick to facts, not feelings,
especially when you’re trying to make someone change their mind. I know a lot of people who are as
stubborn as an ox182, so it can be a real challenge to get them to listen to reason183. But reason is the
best tool to use when it comes to changing people’s minds.
3. How would you tell your friends when you must change your plan?
The important thing is to give them plenty of notice, if possible. The last thing you want to do is ditch
them at the last second184 if you’ve made plans together. When it comes to changes in plan, you need
to be open and honest about the reasons why you’re changing your plan and what’s going to happen
because of this decision.
见下页
181
outside of people’s control: 无法左右，不受控制的
182
as stubborn as an ox: 犟的跟牛一样
183
listen to reason: 听进去道理、说服
184
ditch them at the last second: 形容说好的事情结果临到时间又取消了计划
4. Does technology, like cellphone and the internet, make people change their mind or plan
easier than before?
Yes, I believe technology definitely helps people change their mind or plan things easier than before.
For one, technology like cell phones and the internet help people keep track of all their plans by
creating calendars and schedules. So when it comes to changing plans, they can easily switch things
around according to what works the best for them. Staying organized is easier than ever.
5. Who often change their plans, young people or old people?

Um…I guess young people are more likely to change their plans. They tend to be more spontaneous185,
so they can switch their plans at the drop of a hat186. But when it comes to old people, they’re generally
stricter about planning things. They don’t like switching things up at the last second. Instead, they like
having everything set in stone187.
185
spontaneous: 率真、随性
186
at the drop of a hat: 立刻、马上
187
set in stone: 固定不变
Topic 24. 想一起工作/学习的人

1. What kinds of colleagues do you like to work with?
I like to work with colleagues who are nice and responsible. Since you have to spend a lot of time
with the people you work with, it makes a world of difference188 if you can get along with them.
Having things in common189 with them also helps. But they should be responsible too. One of my
favorite coworkers is always accountable for her actions190. When we work on something together,
she always does her part carefully and makes sure we are on the same page191.
2. What abilities do you need to get along with coworkers?

I think you need to be patient and considerate to get along with coworkers. Even though your goal
should always be acting nice towards others, it’s just a given that192 you won’t like everybody you
meet. So to get along with them, you have to be really patient and be on your best behavior. Plus, you
have to be considerate about their thoughts and feelings so you can get along.
3. Which is more important to you at work, development in work-related skills or recognition

from your supervisors?
Well, development in work-related skills is definitely more important to me at work. It’s really nice
to get recognition from my supervisors, but in the end, that won’t get me as far in life as developing
skills will. You can always take skills with you to the next job in case you want to switch things up193.
In other words, building more skills is equivalent to building up your resume.
见下页
188
it makes a world of difference：（做…的话）结果会是完全不一样的
189
Having things in common：有共同爱好
190
accountable for her actions: 对自己的行为负责
191
on the same page：意见一致，达成共识
192
it’s just a given that：有一点是可以肯定的
193
switch things up: 转换，调整工作
4. Do students have the right to choose who they share a desk with?
That’s definitely a tough question. On the one hand, students have to spend a lot of time with their
desk-mate and they’re very close to them, so it would help if they had a say in the matter194. But on
the other hand, especially when students are young, they need to learn how to get along with their
peers, so maybe it’s best to leave those decisions with the teachers.
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of seats assigned by teachers?

Well, talking about the advantages, one thing I can think of is that teachers can pair students who can
help each other with studying by letting them share a desk. My desk-mate in high school, who was
also my best friend, often gave me a hand when I had difficulty in math. But the disadvantage is that
you might end up sitting with a student you can't get along with.
194
if they had a say in the matter：如果他们能说了算的话，如果他们能有决定的权利的话
Topic 25. 见过的帅哥/美女

1. Do you think beautiful looks are important to people?
It’s a shame, but195 I think nowadays people are pretty focused on looks. So people who are attractive
are usually more popular. I know that looks shouldn’t really matter that much, but I have to admit,
I’m more likely to pay attention to people who look nice. That includes wearing a stylish outfit and
having an up-to-date hairstyle. Whether we want to admit or not, looks can really get you far in this
world196. People naturally tend to help others who look attractive.
2. Is it a good thing that companies use models in their advertisement?

Yeah, it’s a good thing that companies use models in their advertisement. It’s a way of appealing to
people’s humanity. If they see models using the company’s products, they can picture themselves197
using the products more easily. But on a less positive note198, using models can sometimes produce
really unhealthy standards for what people should look like. For example, companies often use really
attractive people to sell their products, which can make more ordinary people feel self-conscious199.
3. What are the disadvantages of being beautiful?

It’s hard to think of one, but I guess every rose has its thorn 200 . So if I have to talk about the
disadvantages of being beautiful, the first one that comes to mind is that people can assume you’re
shallow. For example, my friend in high school was drop-dead gorgeous201. But that made everyone
think she spent all her time on her appearance and didn’t care about anything else. It was a shame
because she’s a sweet and very hardworking person.
见下页
195
It’s a shame, but：很遗憾，但事实就是这样
196
get you far in this world：让你走的更远，长得美运气不会太差
197
picture themselves：想象自己（使用/穿）是什么样的
198
on a less positive note：不太好的一面是
199
self-conscious：相形见绌，感到自卑和难堪
200
every rose has its thorn：每朵玫瑰都带刺，事物都有两面性
201
drop-dead gorgeous：超漂亮
4. Which part of country is the most beautiful place?

Well, actually China is a huge country and has countless beautiful natural landscapes. Each part of
China has its distinct202, beautiful places. I really hope I can travel to most of them in the future. But
among all the natural sceneries I’ve been to, the most breathtaking one is the top of Tai Mountain.
It’s a really grand mountain. And I saw the most wonderful sunrise on the top of it. It was stunning!
5. Which is more beautiful, cultural attractions or natural landscapes?

From my perspective, natural landscapes are way more beautiful. I think there’s something admirable
about cultural attractions, like the Great Wall and other manmade places, but they’re not really my
cup of tea. Natural landscapes are just so stunning; they can literally take your breath away203. I would
much rather check out an awesome mountain range than see a cool building. I also think that being
in nature is a good way to set your mind at ease204.
202
distinct：明显有区别的
203
take your breath away: 美到让人吃惊
204
set your mind at ease：放松身心
Topic 26. 别人帮助下做的重要决定

1. Why do some people like to ask for others’ help when they need to make a decision?
Well, some people aren’t as confident about making decisions on their own. They want input from people
they trust so they can feel better about any choices they might make. But sometimes it’s not about
confidence or anything like that. They might genuinely205 not know what to do in a certain situation.
They feel like they don’t have all the important experience or information to make a call206, so they turn
to others who know more about the issue.
2. Is it better to make a decision quickly or slowly?

Um…I suppose it’s better to take your time with207 a decision and go slowly. Otherwise, you might rush
into208 something that’s not right for you. For example, my friend didn’t know what college she wanted
to go to, but actually she got accepted into two of her top choices. You know, instead of taking enough
time to think about it, she made a snap judgment209 and ended up at a school that really didn’t suit her.
It was a real pity.
3. Personal decisions or career decisions, which one do you like to ask others for advice?
Well, as for me, I think when it relates to personal issues, I won’t ask others for advice because I don't
think they can really help. For example, no one could give me objective advice about things like whether
I should marry my boyfriend or not; after all, no one knows my boyfriend better than me. But when it
comes to decisions about my career, I really like getting advice from people who are more experienced
or have been through the same situation. I think seeing a situation from different perspectives can really
open your eyes about the right choice to make.见下页
205
genuinely: 真的
206
make a call：make a decision 的意思
207
take your time with: 花点时间做…
208
rush into：仓促
209
a snap judgment: 很仓促的决定、判断
4. What kinds of important decisions do teenagers have to make?

I think there are lots of important decisions teenagers are faced with on a day-to-day basis. The first one
that comes to mind is what career path 210 they want to take. Even though they might not enter the
workforce until they’re older, they have to choose as teenagers what classes to take and interests to focus
on so that they can go to the college or university program that they want.
5. What are the differences between men and women when they make decisions? Who are more
likely to make impulsive decisions, boys or girls？
It seems to me that men are quick to make decisions while women prefer to take their time. For example,
my dad and my uncle make decisions very quickly while my mom and my aunt wait and weigh the pros
and cons211 before deciding anything. So in that respect, I think boys are more likely to make impulsive
decisions212. It’s literally been proven that girls mature faster than boys, so I guess women generally
have better decision-making abilities, which means they aren’t as impulsive.
210
career path：职业方向（的选择）
211
weigh the pros and cons：权衡利弊
212
impulsive decisions：冲动的决定
Topic 27. 最近读的一本书

1. What kind of books do children read?
I think children like reading fantastical books about made-up lands213 because it lets their imagination
run free214. They also love books that have lots of adventure in them, or at least a lot of pictures. Since
kids aren’t fully developed yet, they’re more attracted to things that are very visual, so a lot of them
love reading picture books, at least until they’re old enough to like words as well.
2. What kind of books do adults read?

Well, it really depends on the person. I’ve found that idealistic people215 love reading romances or
action-packed216 books, while more down-to-earth people217 like reading biographies or nonfiction.
Generally, I guess adults like books that are about real-life topics and issues. I don’t think they’re as
interested218 in things that are completely made up, like fantasy. That being said, an adult friend of
mine loves reading about dragons. Sometimes I think he believes they’re real! He’s a little off his
rocker219.
3. When it comes to cultivating children’s reading habits, who are more important - teachers
or parents?
Well, it’s tough to say, because I believe both parents and teachers are very influential in a child’s
life. However, I suppose that parents are more important when it comes to cultivating children’s
reading habits. Teachers can show their students ways to develop habits, but the responsibility for
enforcing those habits is in the parents’ hands. The parents have more of an influence in their
children’s lives, so it’s up to them to make sure their children are reading regularly.见下页
213
made-up lands：童话世界，不存在的世界
214
lets their imagination run free: 放飞想象力
215
idealistic people: 理想主义的人
216
action-packed：情节紧张刺激的
217
down-to-earth people：脚踏实地的、更现实的人
218
as interested：对…那么的感兴趣
219
off his rocker：（我觉得）他疯了~~~
4. Which is more beneficial - reading books or watching TV and films?

Well, I’m a little biased because I love reading books more than watching TV and films. In my opinion,
reading books is more beneficial because it helps teach people critical thinking skills220. With TV and
films, the information is very obviously presented to you and they don’t make you think as hard. But
with books, you usually have more room 221 for interpretation, and you can also exercise your
imagination more.
5. How should parents encourage their children to read books?

I suppose parents can encourage their children to read books in lots of ways. One of the easiest and
most important ways is to expose them to books at an early age. This can be done by reading them
bedtime stories before they go to sleep. That way, the child will have a positive association with
reading because it reminds them of the time spent bonding with their parents. It definitely did the
trick222 for me!
6. What do you think about bedtime stories?

It seems to me that bedtime stories can be a very important part of someone’s childhood. For example,
I really bonded with my mom because she read me lots of stories right before I went to sleep. It was
a nice time for us to hang out and feel close to one another. So in that respect223, I think bedtime
stories are great for children’s development. They also help them develop a sense of imagination.
7. What are the influences of modern technology on reading habits?

Well, modern technology has definitely changed the way that people read things, whether it’s books
or magazines or newspapers. With the development of technology, more and more people are reading
information online. Many newspapers have adjusted by publishing their issues on their websites,
while books are increasingly being published as e-books rather than paper books.
220
critical thinking skills：批判性思维
221
more room：更多的空间
222
did the trick (for me): 对我来说是奏效的
223
in that respect：在这方面
Topic 28 想写的书（疑似题，暂未发现 Part3 考题）

Topic 29. 独处喜欢做的事
1. What do people usually do in their spare time?
I think people usually do relaxing activities in their spare time. Nowadays, we get so caught up with the
hustle and bustle of work and study that any free time we have is really valuable. So in general people
don’t want to do anything that stresses them out even further. Some relaxing activities include playing
card games, watching TV or movies, or just kicking back and relaxing with friends and family.
2. Nowadays, many young people like sitting for a long time; what do you think of this?
I think that it just shows the downsides224 of modern life. It’s great that technology has come so far, but
that also means people have more ways to entertain themselves at home, and most of them require you
to sit in front of a screen, like playing video games or watching TV shows. As far as I know, most of my
friends often sit in front of computers for hours on end225 on a daily basis, which I think is a really
unhealthy lifestyle. It’s much better to be active and productive, in my opinion.
3. Do you think children’s spare time should be scheduled by themselves or by their parents?
It seems to me that parents should schedule their children’s free time, but only to a certain extent. If they
manage their children’s activities, they can make sure that they’re doing beneficial things and not just
wasting all their time. But on the other hand, children should have some amount of226 control over what
they do, or else227 they might grow to resent228 their parents. It’s important to find a healthy balance.
见下页
224
downsides：缺点
225
on end: 连续的
226
some amount of: 一定程度上的（掌控）
227
or else：否则的话，要不然
228
resent：怨恨
4. Do young people work longer hours now than in the past?

Well, I think that it depends on the type of job. Compared to people who worked in the fields or did
other kinds of manual labor229 in the past, young people definitely work less hours. But some young
people who work in an office are actually very busy and end up working long, exhausting days because
tons of companies nowadays require employees to work overtime. Plus, if young guys like me want to
get ahead and have a successful career, we have to work harder, don't we?
5. Does overtime work improve a company’s profits?

I believe that to a certain extent, working overtime definitely improves a company’s profits. If people
work longer hours, they can accomplish more and finish important tasks that help the company do better.
But at the same time, working overtime can stress employees out, which leads to less productivity and
an overall drop230 in a company’s profits. So in order to keep making profits, a company has to strike an
important balance231 when it comes to overtime work.
229
manual labor：体力工
230
an overall drop：整体全面下降
231
strike an important balance：求得一个很重要的平衡点
Topic 30. 休闲时光

1. What do people like to do when they are free in your country?
I mean, I can’t really speak for everyone, but as far as I know, people like doing relaxing activities
like going for a walk around the neighborhood or watching a movie at the theater. Nowadays, we can
get so tied up with work and study that we barely have any time to just kick back and relax. Whenever
we have free time, it’s best to just chill out232 and do something with as little stress as possible.
2. Do people have more or less days off than before?

I actually think people have more days off than they used to. First of all, people dozens of years ago
didn’t have as many public holidays as we do now. My father mentioned that mid-autumn day was
not a public holiday when he was young. Plus, higher productivity in today’s society allows us to
have more holidays and free time to relax. We don't need to work day in and day out like our previous
generations.
3. Will future technology bring people more free time?

I believe future technology can definitely bring people more free time. A lot of our time is consumed
with doing jobs that could eventually be done by robots. For example, cleaning the house can take
the better part of a day233, but if everyone had cleaning robots, they could just kick back and relax
and not have to worry about housework. On the downside234, I think that would make everyone pretty
lazy.
4. Do men and women do different things on their free days?

From my own experience, men and women like to do different kinds of activities on their days off.
Men usually like to watch sports or TV when they have free time. Lots of young guys spend their
time at the gym or playing video games. But women like doing more social activities, like shopping
or having lunch together. But actually both men and women like doing relaxing things like going to
see a movie.
见下页
232
chill out：relax, 放松
233
take the better part of a day：占据一天中的很多时间
234
On the downside：缺点，负面影响
5. What do children always do when they are free? Do you think parents should make plans for
their children?
From what I remember, kids just like playing with each other. Whether that means going to a
playground or just talking with each other, they enjoy spending time with one another. I think parents
can be involved with what their kids do, and they should definitely be in the know235, but I don’t think
they have to make plans for their children because only the children know what they want to do or
play the most during free time.
6. What do young people usually do during free time?
In my personal experience, young people usually do fun things together during their free time. It’s
not uncommon to see236 groups of them going to the movies or hanging out at the mall. Young people
are pretty social. They like chilling with each other237 and just shooting the breeze238. Sometimes they
also like playing on their phones and checking social media. Older generations might call them lazy,
but I suppose that they just like building friendships.
7. Do you think it is good for workers to work overtime?
It seems to me that it’s good, but only to a certain extent. Working overtime usually means you get
paid more, so it does wonders for your bank account239. It can also give you a sense of achievement
when you go beyond expectations and do the extra work. But every rose has its thorn240. If you
overwork yourself, you can easily get stressed out, which negatively impacts your mental and
physical health.
8. Can limited free time affect family life?
Yeah, I believe limited free time can affect family life. The biggest concern is usually with parents.
If they’re always busy with work, they won’t have enough time to spend time with their kids. As a
result, their kids might feel lonely or neglected. This can negatively impact them in the long term.
Also, if the kids spend more time away when they grow up, they might not be able to have a strong
relationship with their parents.
235
definitely be in the know：应该要了解、掌握（孩子动态）
236
It’s not uncommon to see：…是很常见的
237
chilling with each other：相当于说 hang out together
238
shooting the breeze: 漫无目的瞎聊天
239
it does wonders for your bank account：it does wonders for 表示对…有效、有帮助，这里指自己能多赚些钱，银行账户可
以多入账
240
every rose has its thorn：每朵玫瑰都带刺，事物都有两面性
Topic 31. 美丽的城市

1. Why do some people like to visit historical places?
I suppose some people like visiting historical places because it makes them feel like they’re more in
touch with the past. For example, if you visit historical buildings, you get a sense for241 what things used
to be like in the past. Some other historical places can have personal significance – for example, if your
ancestors had something to do with a historical place, it can make you feel closer to them if you visit.
2. Do you think the government should protect historical buildings?

Yes, to a certain extent, the government should protect historical buildings. Lots of historical buildings
have rich cultural significance. They can help educate today’s generation about the way things used to
be in the past. In this way, they can function as real-life history lessons. But I think that governments
should allow some historical buildings to be repurposed242 or even replaced to suit today’s needs; we
can’t always be focused on what was important in the past.
3. What can we do to stop visitors from damaging historical places?

I think we can set up certain rules and work on educating people in order to protect historical places from
damage. For example, if you’re visiting a certain building that’s already in poor shape, you can make
rules about what people are allowed to bring or how many people are allowed to visit at a time243. Plus,
you can increase people’s awareness of why certain historical places are important so that they’ll respect
them more.
见下页
241
get a sense for: 得到一种…的感觉
242
repurposed：重新利用，重新规划
243
at a time: 每一次
4. Why are there more and more tall buildings in cities?

Well, I believe one part of it is definitely to give cities a unique look. But the more important reason why
there are more high-rise buildings in cities is simply because so many people live there. You need to
make sure there’s enough space, which is why tall buildings are so important. They’re more vertical244
than horizontal245, so you can have more of them built and thus fit more people into246 the cities.
5. Are there big differences between life in cities and life in the countryside in China?
Well, lifestyle does vary in different places. The first difference I can think of is that the pace of life in
cities is way faster than it is in the countryside. It’s mainly because most city residents work nine-to-five
jobs, which is more intense than what most rural people do. Um… of course, living in the city also means
you can take advantage of247 some public services that are weak or don't even exist in villages, like
developed public transportation or entertainment facilities.
244
vertical: 垂直的
245
horizontal: 水平的
246
fit more people into：（城市）可以容纳更多的人
247
take advantage of: 利用
Topic 32. 国家有趣的地方

1. What’s the difference between people living in cities and people living in countryside?
/What’s the difference between lifestyle in cities and lifestyle in countryside? (请参考“Topic21.
美丽的城市”，第 5 题)
2. What makes a place interesting? What attracts people to live in a place?

I suppose having beautiful scenery and diverse places to eat at and visit are what make a place
interesting. For example, I went to a seaside town this summer and really enjoyed seeing the ocean.
I also tried some amazing seafood restaurants. So I guess factors like that248 attract people to live in
a place. Besides, a place also needs to have a safe and welcoming environment to be suitable to live
in.
3. What are the differences between southern and northern China?

Well, one obvious difference is the weather. Southern China tends to have a more tropical climate
while northern China has more regular seasons. Another difference is the people. There are lots of
stereotypes249 that say people in southern China are more superstitious250 and shrewd251 than people
in northern China. For example, fengshui252 is way more popular in southern provinces like Canton
than in northern areas. Northerners are often stereotyped as burlier 253 than southerners, and are
supposedly more likely to eat wheat-based foods, like noodles and steamed buns.
见下页
248
factors like that: 这类型因素
249
stereotypes：常规固有的刻板印象
250
superstitious: 迷信的
251
shrewd: 精明
252
fengshui: 风水
253
burlier: 说话直接、粗鲁
4. Do you think cities worth visiting are also suitable to live in? Why are some places suitable
for tourism but not suitable to live in?
Well, I guess this answer will change a lot depending on who you ask, but personally254 I don’t think
that cities worth visiting are always suitable to live in. For example, I visited a city by the ocean last
summer. The scenery blew me away, but I don’t think it’s suitable to live there because there are
often huge hurricanes255 in that area. That’s one reason why some places are suitable for tourism but
not suitable to live in.
5. Do you like living in big cities or small cities? What are the differences between big cities and
small cities?
Personally, I like living in small cities better than big cities. I suppose big cities are way too noisy
and crowded. If you live downtown, it can be hard to get a wink of sleep256. But in smaller cities,
there are less people so it’s not as hectic. It’s easier to get around, whether you’re taking public
transportation or driving, and it’s also easier to meet new people and develop friendships.
6. What makes countries different? Why?

Well, there are plenty of things that make countries different from each other. Off the top of my head,
I can think of three main factors: the climate, the culture, and the people. Some countries are tropical
year-round while others have regular seasons. Countries can also have very different cultures – some
really value257 art and literature while others focus more on sports and science. And of course the
different ethnicities258 in each country separate them from one another.
254
this answer will change a lot depending on who you ask, but personally: “你要是问不同的人，这个问题的答案可能都不一
样”。同样是可以在 Part3 出现的模板句，同时也是加分句。
255 huge hurricanes：飓风/'hʌrɪkənz/
256
get a wink of sleep：睡个好觉，（很难）睡好
257
value：动词，重视
258
ethnicities: 种族，民族/eθ'nɪsɪtɪ/
Topic 33. 去远方旅行

1. Where do Chinese people like to travel to?
As far as I know, tons of people in my country, including me and my family, really love having a
vacation at seaside resorts during their holidays. I mean, the beautiful natural sceneries at the beach
and variety of fun activities there can allow you to blow off steam easily. Plus, many Chinese people,
especially the elderly, also prefer to travel to historical attractions. Places like the Forbidden City and
the Temple of Heaven259 can truly blow you away.
2. What kinds of activities do people like to do for holidays?

Well, I suppose it depends on what type of people you’re talking about. Some introverted people
might like just kicking back and relaxing at home, but more extroverted people probably like
travelling far from their normal environment and doing activities outside their comfort zone. I think
in general, people like doing something that gives them a break from their normal routines260, whether
that’s something calm like reading books at home or exciting like going skiing.
3. Why do some people prefer to stay at home during holidays?

It seems to me that some people prefer staying at home during holidays because they’re more
introverted. Homebodies like being where they’re most comfortable, which is in a familiar
environment. So it makes sense that they wouldn’t want to go outside their comfort zone by travelling
somewhere new during the holidays. Sometimes it’s about practicality261 though. My parents like
staying at home because they think travelling is too hectic262 during the holiday season.
见下页
259
the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven：故宫和天坛
260
gives them a break from their normal routines：从他们日常生活中解脱和放松一下
261
practicality：实际情况，现实问题
262
too hectic：太燥了，太乱了
4. What do you think about young people having a gap year before they enter university?
I think having a gap year can be very helpful for some young people before they start working or
enter university. Some of them don’t have an inkling of263 what they want to do with their lives, so
instead of throwing their money down the drain on264 a degree they might not be interested in, it’s
better to take a gap year and explore their options. Sometimes they need a break before they begin
the next chapter of their lives.
5. Do people in China have enough holidays? Do people want more holidays?

Um…definitely no. I mean, who doesn’t want more holidays? Even though there are technically
enough holidays for people in my country, I believe they would appreciate some more. Everyone
needs time to just blow off steam or kick back and relax, which can be hard to do even when on
holiday. I suppose that it could really help people be more productive at work and school if they had
more time off.
263
don’t have an inkling of…: 对…一无所知
264
throwing their money down the drain on: 把钱白白浪费在…
Topic 34. 一条好法律

1. What kind of people can become police officers? /What qualities do they need?
I guess people who can keep their cool265 during stressful situations and have good teamwork skills
can become police officers. They need to be the type of person who can be quick on their feet and
know how to deal with very difficult obstacles. Um…they should also be fairly physically fit, in case
they need to pursue criminals. And I believe they also need to be very courageous so they can face
dangerous situations without too much fear.
2. What do you think about being a police officer? / Do young people want to be police officers?
I suppose being a police officer would be amazing, to be honest. You would get to help serve your
community and keep it safe. It’s a noble line of work266. Actually I’m kind of a chicken267 when it
comes to scary situations, so I don’t think it’s the right job for me. But I guess lots of young people
are interested in being police officers; they want to do right by their community and do something
heroic268.
3. Why do many people think being a lawyer is better than being a police officer? /Why is a
lawyer’s income usually higher than a police officer’s income?
Well, a lot of people think being a lawyer is a more “clean-cut” job269. You have more regular hours270,
you can have very rich clients, and you don’t have to get your hands dirty271 with hard physical work,
like police officers sometimes have to do when chasing criminals. Maybe that’s why a lawyer usually
makes more compared to police officers. Police officers are also paid by the government, but lawyers
get to have clients who probably pay better on average.
见下页
265 keep their cool: 冷静，保持淡定

266 a noble line of work：一项高贵的工作
267 a chicken: 胆小的人
268 do something heroic: 做有勇有谋的事情
269 a more “clean-cut” job: 一个很体面的工作
270 have more regular hours：工作时间更加固定
271 get your hands dirty：do hard and difficult work, 辛苦工作
4. Do people in your country always obey the law?

No, they don’t. It would be a perfect world if everyone always obeyed the law, but sadly that’s not
always the case272. There are lots of reports in the news about people stealing from others or even
killing them. But I suppose that for the most part273, I live in a pretty peaceful part of the country;
there aren’t a lot of people stirring up trouble274 on a daily basis. So most people I know are law-
abiding citizens.
5. Is there any unreasonable law in your country?
This is a tricky question to answer275. Um…the first one that comes to mind is definitely the law that
forbids residents in mainland China from using foreign websites like YouTube, Google and Facebook.
It’s a breach if you do so. The government even builds a firewall that literally blocks people from
accessing tons of foreign websites that they consider unsafe. As consenting adults276, we’re supposed
to have the rights to log onto whatever websites we want to see, aren’t we? That’s why I think it’s
unreasonable.
6. What law do people often break? /Are there many people in your country breaking the law?
/ What law do people dislike to obey?
Well, actually, even though the crime rate in China is actually way lower than average in the world,
it doesn't mean that everyone abides by the law perfectly. One breach that basically every young
person has done is downloading pirated277 music and movies. It’s clearly a violation of the Intellectual
Property Law278, but almost everyone does it. After all, when a law is difficult to implement, I believe
people are more likely to break it because it has no cost to them.
7. Do you think both men and women can be police officers?

Absolutely! I don’t think that being a police officer is specific to only one gender. Even though there
is a stereotype that women are less suited to be police officers because they sometimes aren’t as
physically strong as men, they are definitely just as qualified because it’s not always about brawn
over brain279. As long as someone has the proper training, it doesn’t matter if they’re a man or a
woman.
272 that’s not always the case：情况并非总是如此，事情并非总是如我们所愿

273 for the most part：大多数情况下，大部分时候
274 stirring up trouble：兴风作浪
275 This is a tricky question to answer: 这是个很难回答的问题
276 As consenting adults：作为有独立思考能力的成年人
277 pirated: 盗版的
278 a violation of the Intellectual Property Law: 违反了知识产权保护法
279 brawn over brain：体力工作多过脑力工作
Topic 35. 参加过的聚会
1. How do children in China celebrate birthday party?

I think children usually celebrate birthday parties by giving gifts and doing a fun activity like playing
video games or visiting a zoo. At a young age, they don’t really know why birthdays are that important;
to them, it’s just a fun day where they get to pig out280 on cake and goof off281. But they like having
birthday parties, because it’s a chance for them to play with each other and enjoy each other’s
company282.
2. What do children often do in a birthday party? / What do children love to do in a party?

I haven’t taken part in a child’s party for years. But I guess children like to do party games pretty
often when it comes to celebrating birthday parties. Besides, when I was young, what children liked
the most was unwrapping283 their birthday gifts. I’m sure that’s a big deal for a lot of children, and
there’s a ton of fun in opening the gift wrap and finding out what toys are in there. Young kids are no
exception284 when it comes to getting a kick out of having many new toys.
3. Should parents spend a lot of money on children’s parties?

Well, I don’t think parents should spend a ton of money on children’s parties. It’s kind of crazy to
break the bank285 on a party that the kids probably won’t even remember when they’re grown up.
Plus, when they’re young, kids don’t need super elaborate 286 or expensive things to keep them
entertained. So spending the big bucks287 on a children’s party is kind of ridiculous.
见下页
280
pig out: 狼吞虎咽，大吃特吃
281
goof off: 偷会儿懒，玩耍（一天）
282
company: 陪伴
283
unwrapping: 拆开
284
no exception: 无一例外的
285
break the bank: 耗费钱财
286
elaborate: 精心制作的
287
the big bucks: 一大笔钱
4. What are the differences between adults’ party and children’s party?
I suppose adults’ parties are a lot more serious and often have a purpose, like for a business where
it’s all about building networks or having a formal ceremony. Usually they just focus on conversation,
and there isn’t a lot in terms of entertainment. But when it comes to children’s parties, the atmosphere
is a lot crazier. After all, most parents just let their kids run around and blow off steam288 by playing
with each other. It can get out of hand pretty quickly.
5. Do you think people can make more friends if they often join parties?
Yeah, people can definitely make more friends that way. Even though sometimes, going to parties
means stepping out of289 your comfort zone, it’s a great way to get to know new people by meeting
them face-to-face. Nowadays, so many people just stay at home and socialize with the people they
already know. It’s good to get out once in a while and make new friends.
6. Why do so many people love playing computer games at home?

Well, to be honest, I think it’s a form of escapism290. You know, a lot of people are really wound
up291 after a long day of work or study. So for them, playing computer games at home is a way of
blowing off steam and escaping into a made-up world292. Even though it’s not that productive, it’s
important because it gives them a chance to just kick back and relax293.
288
blow off steam: 发泄、释放情感
289
step out of: 走出
290
escapism: 逃离现实
291
wound up: 紧绷的状态
292
made-up world: 虚拟世界
293
kick back and relax: 放松
Topic 36/37. 特定节日吃的食物

1. Which food is popular in China?
There are tons of popular foods in China since the Chinese have a very rich food culture. A dish that
a ton of Chinese people love eating is ramen, especially Lanzhou Ramen. It’s definitely one of the
tastiest kinds of noodles in China. Another one of the best kinds of traditional food is hotpot, which
is a little similar to fondue. We can put all kinds of meats and vegetables into the hotpot and eat it
with dipping sauce294. There are dozens of styles of hotpot in China but without a doubt, they all taste
amazing. I especially love the spicy Sichuan hotpot.
2. Have people’s eating habit changed compared to the past?

Yes, people’s diets today are very different from their diets in the past. Young people especially have
diets that are worlds away from those of our grandparents and great-grandparents. In the past, China’s
economy wasn’t as developed so people didn’t have the wide range of choices for food that we have
today. For example, vegetables and fruits like okra295 and cranberries296 are popular food ingredients
nowadays, but didn't exist in farmers’ markets even a decade ago.
3. What’s the difference between North and South of China when it comes to eating habit?
Well, talking about differences in diet among people in different parts of China, I have to say people’s
tastes vary a lot in terms of location. For example, a ton of northern dishes are quite salty. In contrast,
many people in southern parts of China prefer sweetness, so you will find many kinds of dishes with
a sweet flavor. However, China is a huge country, and each town has its own features in terms of
food.
4. Why do some people grow their own food these days?

I believe some people grow their own food because they want to have more control over what they
eat. A lot of people think that store-bought food297 has too many chemicals in it. They want to know
exactly where their food comes from and what goes into it. Others just grow their own food because
it’s a fun hobby that helps them wind down. I think both are good reasons. It’s pretty cool to make
your own meals like that. 见下页
294
dipping sauce：蘸酱
295
okra：秋葵
296
cranberries: 蔓越莓
297
store-bought food: 现成的食品，店里买的加工好的食品
5. Is it hard to grow a plant?

No, I don’t think it’s that hard. All you really have to do is make sure you give it the right conditions
to grow. For example, if it needs a lot of sunlight, you can make sure it’s in an open area that gets lots
of light. The tricky thing is remembering to water it every day. Personally, I can be really forgetful,
so I wouldn’t trust myself to take care of a plant.
6. Will more people grow vegetables in the future?

Well, right now, growing vegetables is a big trend298. So I think that in the future, more and more
people will give it a try. It’s a pretty cool habit that makes for a good conversation topic. It’s probably
also healthier to grow your own food instead of getting it from the store. If you grow vegetables
yourself, you have control over the whole process. I think it’s pretty neat.
7. Do you think people should eat every meal with their family?
Well, that’s tough. I suppose that it would be nice if people ate every meal with their family. Eating
together is a great way to strengthen relationships between family members. But at the same time,
it’s not always possible to eat every single meal with family. People have different work schedules
and are often apart during the day299. I think as long as you can have one meal a day with your family,
you’re doing fine.
8. What are the influences of industrial development in the food industry on our eating habits?
I’m not really an expert on this subject. But the first thing that comes to mind is the types of food we
eat nowadays. Basically, we have to watch our eating habits and diet300, because the industrialization
of the food industry has made many people used to eating processed food 301 . As we all know,
processed food usually contains a ton of calories but way less nutrition than natural food302. I believe
it’s an important reason why we can see more people becoming overweight. We should eat less food
produced by factories and more natural food, like vegetables and fruits.
298
a big trend：很流行
299
are often apart during the day：白天都经常不在一起
300
watch our eating habits and diet：关注自身的饮食习惯
301
processed food：加工过的食品
302
natural food：天然食品
Topic 38. 聪明的人

1. What kinds of people are clever?
That’s a tough question to answer. But I guess that people who are clever are usually smart. They’re
able to look at a problem and come up with303 an interesting or unique solution. They think outside
the box304 and look at things from a bunch of different perspectives. You can also call clever people
crazy as a fox305; it might seem like they’re acting weirdly but they’re as smart as a fox is supposed
to be.
2. Which kinds of ways can develop children’s intelligence?
Well, there are many different ways to develop a child’s intelligence. The first one I can think of is
having them read306. Reading helps them develop literacy skills and allows them to start thinking
critically, both of which are very important when it comes to smarts. Another way is exposing them
to a variety of subjects to help them have a well-rounded mind. That could include doing math and
different kinds of physical exercises. I believe this can help students think better from the perspective
of science.
3. Are cleverer people happier? Why?
Well, to be honest, I don’t think cleverer people are necessarily happier307 than anyone else. I mean,
on the one hand, clever people can be happier because in general they have more successful careers
and higher income than normal people. Being clever can make your life more comfortable. But on
the other hand, we all have challenges in life whether we’re clever or not. Sometimes, problems like
family conflicts and emotion struggles are even harder for clever people to solve because they
might overthink the issues. So I don’t really think that cleverer people are automatically happier.
4. Do you think smart people tend to be selfish?
Well, I’ve been called smart myself, so I really hope not! But I can see why some people might think
that. Smart people can get their way a lot easier, so in that sense they could be selfish and use their
intelligence just to better themselves308 and no one else. But I believe a lot of smart people are very
generous to others, so it’s not fair to call them all selfish. For example, a lot of famous and genius
entrepreneurs like Bill Gates and Warren Buffet have donated most of their wealth to charity. That’s
very respectful.
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303
come up with：想出
304
think outside the box：跳出固有思维模式
305
crazy as a fox：像狐狸一样精明
306
having them read：让他们多读东西
307
necessarily happier：（不是）一定快乐，必然快乐
308
better themselves：提升自己
5. Who do you think plays a more important role in a child’s development, teachers or parents?
I suppose that parents play a more important role in a child’s development. For one, they’re with the
child from the day they’re born. So they have a huge influence on them for basically their whole life.
Plus, the parents are the ones in charge of raising the child. They can effect what the child believes
and how they behave. Teachers still have an important role in children’s lives, but I think parents take
the cake309.
6. How should teachers develop children’s intelligence?

I suppose that teachers should develop children’s intelligence by challenging them in lots of different
ways. They should obviously teach them how to read and write, but they should also teach them
different skills that involve math and science. By expanding their horizons through different subjects,
they can help them become well-rounded and intelligent students. They can also help them develop
intelligence by giving them challenging questions and encouraging them to work it out as much as
they can. After all, the more you use your brain the better it works.
7. What are the qualities of good teachers?

Off the top of my head, the first thing that comes to mind is patience. Good teachers stick with their
students no matter how hard they’re struggling. They always encourage them to do their best. It kind
of goes without saying310, but good teachers should also be smart and clever. They should know how
to teach in different ways to help get the point across to different kinds of students.
8. Has the invention of the computer made people smarter? Or does it make people think less
than before?
Well, personally I suppose that computers are lifesavers. They can help us think in different and
challenging ways because of all the new technologies it uses. For example, you can analyze data and
learn science easily on computer. But on the flip side, computers can also make us think less because
they give us answers at the press of a button. People don’t really have to put their minds to311 anything
anymore because the computers do it for them. So it’s definitely a double-edged sword312.
309
take the cake：（几个选项之间）某一个是最突出的
310
It kind of goes without saying：（这件事情）是显而易见的，被大多人认可的一个事实。这里指好的老师要一定要很聪明
的。
311
put their minds to：花心思做…
312
a double-edged sword：双刃剑
Topic 39. 朋友成功的经历

1. What are the factors of being successful?
Off the top of my head, I’d say that you need to be really motivated to be successful. Sometimes life
will throw you a curveball313, so you have to stick to your plan no matter what. People who don’t
have a lot of motivation might just give up when things get difficult. Other than that314, I think you
should also be confident and good at communicating. People who have a knack for communication
can convince others easily. In that way, they’re more likely to be successful.
2. Do you think a university degree would guarantee one’s success in a career?

Actually, I don’t think having a university degree is a guarantee for success in a career. Nowadays,
people rise through the ranks315 in lots of different ways. Having a university degree definitely gives
you a boost316, but it’s not the only way to be successful. Many people never get a university degree,
but they are still great at what they do and have an awesome career. As we all know, lots of famous
entrepreneurs, like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, were even dropouts317 from college.
3. How would you define a student’s success?

Well, that’s a hard question to answer since every student is so different. But I suppose that in general,
a student is successful when they’ve become proficient in a subject and when they can extend their
skills in that class to real life318. It’s one thing to know319 how to read a book; it’s another to use
thinking skills to get a job. I think that’s how you can define success when it comes to students.
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313
life will throw you a curveball：生活给你一击（总会有困难出现）
314
Other than that：除此以外
315
rise through the ranks：步步高升
316
gives you a boost：助力
317
dropouts：退学的人
318
extend their skills in that class to real life：把课堂所学实践到生活中
319
It’s one thing to know… it’s another to use…知道…是一回事，（会做）是另一回事
4. How can you be successful at work? How can you be successful at your company?
It seems to me that in order to be successful at work, you need to be driven and responsible. You also
have to have a clear goal and work hard to achieve it. As far as I know, most bosses like employees
who show those qualities, so they are more likely to be promoted faster than others. Besides, you
should also be passionate about your job. After all, if you love what you do, you’ll never have to work
a day in your life. Caring about your job can help you be better at it.
5. How should successful students be rewarded?

I suppose successful students should be rewarded with praise from their teachers. It’s always helpful
to receive constructive criticism320, but it’s even better when your teachers are building you up321 and
making you feel good about your work. I also think awards are a good way of motivating students
and rewarding them when they do well. That’s a way of recognizing their efforts so they can be more
confident and have more passion to study hard.
320
receive constructive criticism：收到有建设性的批评意见
321
building you up：树立信心
Topic 40. 有趣的老人

1. What are the common hobbies that young people and old people have?
I think that both young people and old people like doing relaxing activities. The first one that comes
to mind is going to the movies. It’s a fun social event that doesn’t take up that much time or energy,
so people of all ages enjoy it. Another common hobby is reading. The only difference might be how
they read. Old people probably prefer paper books while young people often read on their phone or
tablet.
2. What can old people teach young people?

Well, old people have tons of wisdom to share with young people. For one, they can teach them
practical skills, like how to manage their time and money. Old people have had way more experience
so they can share their knowledge with the younger generations. Another thing old people can teach
young people is knowledge about the past. For example, they can tell them about what life used to be
like and pass down important family traditions.
3. What can young people teach old people?

Well, being a young person myself, a lot of things come to mind. The first one I can think of is that
young people can help old people learn about technology. They can teach them how to use the latest
gadgets322 like tablets and cellphones. Young people can also teach old people how to adapt to new
trends in society323. Things can change pretty dramatically within a few generations, such as dress
styles and the ways of entertainment.
4. What are the differences between old people and young people when they learn new things?
I believe young people are a lot more enthusiastic about learning new things. They don’t have as
much experience as old people so they’re eager to expand their horizons. From my own experience,
it’s really exciting to learn something that you don’t already know. But I suppose that in general, old
people are more hesitant to learn new things. They don’t like change as much, so it’s hard for them
to take in new knowledge324 that might change things.
见下页
322
the latest gadgets：最新的科技产品
323
adapt to new trends in society：适应社会新潮流
324
take in new knowledge：吸收新的知识
5. Do you think old people should live with their family?

Well, it would be really nice for old people to live with their family. For one, it helps keep the family
close. It’s important to respect your elders, and there’s no better way to respect them than to take
them into your own home. That way the younger generation can still bond with325 the older one. But
on the flipside, elders might have different lifestyles than young people. So sometimes living with an
elder means you have to compromise in your daily life.
6. Why are some people considered boring?

I think some people are considered boring because they never go out of their comfort zone. For
example, there are many people who never like doing anything new. So whenever their friends want
to try something exciting, they refuse. It makes them seem like a total bore326. People can also be
boring if they never get excited about anything. It’s healthy to have a passion, and people who don’t
tend to be downers327.
325
bond with：与…保持亲密的关系
326
a total bore: 很讨厌
327
downers：很扫兴的人
Topic 41. 祖父/母的工作

1. What kinds of jobs are difficult to do in your country?
I believe any job that involves big risks is difficult. A good example is a police officer or a firefighter.
Those jobs put you face-to-face with danger pretty much on a daily basis. For those kinds of jobs,
you have to be really brave as well as physically fit. It’s definitely not a walk in the park328. Some
difficult jobs also involve a lot of intelligence, like doctors and scientists. Actually only a very small
proportion of people have the talent to be doctors and scientists. And those jobs also require years of
study and training.
2. Do you think difficult jobs are more interesting than easy jobs?
Yeah, I would say so. Difficult jobs might be riskier, but they’re also more interesting because of it.
For example, being a police officer would be way cooler than being a salesperson because police
officers get to help keep the community safe. They get to investigate cases329 and do interesting kinds
of work. Being a scientist would also be more interesting than an office job because of all the new
discoveries they can make.
3. Do difficult jobs offer high wages?

I mean, I sure hope so. If you’re doing hard work, you should be paid well for it. Thankfully, I think
that’s usually the case 330 . Lots of difficult jobs give you high wages, like police officers and
firefighters. Since they technically work for the government, I think they get paid a pretty penny331.
Doctors and scientists usually make good money as well, at least to my knowledge332. It makes the
difficulty of the job worth it.
见下页
328
It’s definitely not a walk in the park：这不是一件容易的事情
329
investigate cases：调查案件
330
Thankfully, I think that’s usually the case：还好现在大部分情况是这样的（大部分难度高的工作都薪水高）
331
a pretty penny：赚的不错
332
at least to my knowledge：至少据我所知是这样的（同样是可积累的万能表达）
4. Do you think robots would replace human workers in the future?

I believe they’ll replace some human workers, but definitely not all of them. For one, it would be
pretty expensive to actually make all those robot workers. For another, there are lots of jobs that
robots can’t do, like being therapists333 or police officers or artists. Most importantly, robots can’t
create and control things the way humans do. So I don’t think we have to be worry about robots
stealing all our jobs.
5. What kinds of jobs cannot be replaced by robots? What kinds of jobs can be replaced by
robots?
I mean, robots can take care of manufacturing jobs, which has already happened in a lot of factories.
They can even do jobs that involve selling things or serving people. But I don’t think they can replace
that human touch when it comes to more arts-based jobs, like writing books, making movies, or even
designing things. I definitely hope robots won’t take over all jobs in the future. It would make the
future pretty bleak334.
6. Do you think it would be beneficial to provide training to employees?

Yes, I definitely think it’s beneficial to provide training to employees. Every company has
expectations for their employees. So if they give their employees training, there’s good
communication and understanding between both ends335. The company can make it clear how they
want their employees to behave while on the job. Without training, employees might try to do things
their own way and cause confusion. I can’t imagine the kind of chaos336 that would cause.
333
therapists：心理治疗师，理疗师
334
bleak: （人生前途）暗淡无光的
335
both ends: 两端
336
chaos：混乱
Topic 42. 儿时偶像

1. What kinds of famous people do children like?
It seems to me that children are interested in famous people who act and sing. Those kinds of talents
are really easy to see and admire. For example, I have a young cousin who really loves the American
singer Taylor Swift. She’s little but she likes that kind of music, and she can recognize a Taylor Swift
song at the drop of a hat337. Besides actors and singers, I think famous magicians also have an impact
on children. Their performances can always attract children.
2. What are the changes to children’s lives compared with before? Are they positive or negative?
I suppose that children’s lives are a lot better than they used to be. The past was a lot more difficult
for basically everyone. People didn’t have the same luxuries as they do nowadays. My parents told
me that children didn't have any toys when they were young. And they even had to help parents do a
lot of chores that children today won’t do, like washing clothes and making meals. Nowadays, kids
are treated to the latest technologies and they have tons of entertainment at their fingertips338. So I
think it’s mostly a positive change from the past.
3. Should celebrities be role models to children?

Yeah, celebrities should set a good example for kids. Even though it’s not technically their job, being
in the public eye339 means that you have a huge influence on people, no matter what their age. So I
think that celebrities should be on their best behavior340 in public. That way, they can be good role
models for kids. I wouldn’t want any child of mine to admire someone who acted really badly, even
if they were famous.
见下页
337
at the drop of a hat：不假思索
338
at their fingertips：轻而易举（就能有…）
339
being in the public eye：成为公众人物
340
be on their best behavior：展现出最好的一面
4. What are the responsibilities of celebrities to society? Why?

Well, it’s weird to think that 341 celebrities have responsibilities to society. But in a way, they
definitely do. Just like everyone else, they owe it to society to be good citizens342 and help contribute
positively to the community. But since celebrities have such a huge influence on the public, I suppose
that they should use their fame to support important social movements and bring awareness to some
public issues343. It’s a way of using their status for good.
5. Is it a good thing to be famous as a child?

I actually think it’s really bad to be famous as a child. Growing up is tough enough without everyone
watching your every move344. When children are famous, they can quickly let the attention get to
their head and become really spoiled. They also run the risk of having more anxiety since they’re in
the public eye so often. So I guess fame would add too much stress to their daily life.
6. Do you think advertisements aimed at children should be endorsed by famous people?

Well… I don't think advertisements aimed at children should really exist to begin with. Advertisers
should just leave kids alone. They shouldn’t be targets of advertising; they’re too young to think about
that stuff. So in that sense, I don’t think famous people should endorse those types of advertisements.
When companies use popular actors or singers to sponsor their products, they can take advantage
of345 children easily and end up ripping off346 them.
341
it’s weird to think that…: 这样想很奇怪
342
owe it to society to be good citizens：成为好市民是我们对社会应尽的责任
343
bring awareness to some public issues：让公众对一些社会问题引起注意
344
without everyone watching your every move：没有人盯着你的一举一动
345
take advantage of：利用
346
ripping off：欺骗
Topic 43. 以前不喜欢现在感兴趣的学科

1. Should students learn many subjects or learn a few subjects but learn them deeply?
I suppose that it’s best for students to learn a wide range of subjects. There are definitely benefits to
learning only a few subjects well, but students need to be exposed to a variety of things first. That
way, they can narrow down their interests 347 as they grow older. They might not know they’re
interested in something until they’re taught about it. That discovery wouldn’t happen if they only got
to learn a few subjects.
2. What are the influences of teachers’ course design and teaching methods on students?
Teachers obviously have a huge influence on students. The courses they pick and the way they teach
them affect the subjects that students will be interested in. For example, if a teacher has a very boring
course design for history and doesn’t use effective teaching methods, students might be turned off
from348 the subject of history and not want to study it anymore. On the flip side, if a teacher can teach
children in an interesting way, I guess even those students who don't like studying might be attracted
by the course. So teachers have to balance those things in order to make every subject as appealing
as possible.
3. Should school classes be interesting? Do interesting classes help students to learn better?
I definitely think classes should be interesting. I mean, the main thing is that they should be
educational above all else349. But it really helps if classes are interesting as well. That way, students
are way more likely to pay attention, and thus they’ll study better. I don’t think anyone wants to sit
through350 a boring class. That’s about as fun as watching paint dry351. It’s much better to be in a class
that’s both educational and interesting.
见下页
347
narrow down their interests: 缩小他们的兴趣爱好的范围
348
turned off from：lose interest in something, 失去对…的兴趣
349
above all else：高于一切（重要性）
350
sit through：在很无聊沉闷的场合一直坐着
351
as fun as watching paint dry：形容无趣（看着油漆变干）
4. How can teachers make math class more interesting?

Well, math has never been my cup of tea. But I suppose a way to make math classes more interesting
is by having real-life examples. In that way, it’s easier for students to understand the math theories.
For example, I remember I had a math teacher who taught us about percentages. She made it
interesting for us by talking about sales. You know, if something was thirty percent off at a store, I
could calculate the price on the spot352 because of her class. That skill has really come in handy353.
5. Do you think the internet is an important source of information?

Yeah, I would say the internet is a good source of information. There are so many interesting articles
about all different kinds of topics. From news to pop culture, you can stay in the know354 by looking
at the internet. It’s really amazing when you think about it. However, there’s also a lot of fake
information on the internet. So you just have to be careful about where you get your info from.
6. What subjects are more practical to learn nowadays?

Nowadays, I think it’s practical to learn subjects in the sciences, like physics, biology, and chemistry.
Those things can be applied to tons of different jobs. They’re especially practical because they help
other people out. Besides those basic subjects, I believe computer science and programming are the
most practical subjects in today’s world, since we basically use computers to work and study every
day. I believe no matter what you do in the future, knowing how to code will be a great advantage at
work.
352
on the spot：当场，马上
353
come in handy：非常有用，迟早派上用场
354
in the know：对某个东西很了解
Topic 44. 一个青少年

1. What’s the difference between teenagers and children? What are the differences between their
behaviors?
Well, children tend to be a lot more enthusiastic about things. They’re also very easy to please355 when
it comes to entertainment. But when they become teenagers, they’re generally more reserved356 and they
don’t tend to put themselves out there357 as often as kids do. Plus, they’re never that satisfied unless they
have the latest new-fangled358 thing. In contrast, all you have to do to keep a kid satisfied is play a simple
game with them.
2. What are teenagers’ attitude towards old people usually? Do young people respect old people
nowadays?
It seems to me that usually, teenagers are pretty respectful of old people. Most of them have elderly
people in their lives, and those relationships are generally pretty good. As far as I know, lots of young
people are on good terms with 359 their older relatives, such as their grandparents. I think teenagers
understand that old people have lots of experience and wisdom. So I believe that for the most part, young
people respect old people nowadays.
见下页
355
easy to please: 很容易被逗乐
356
reserved：叛逆
357
put themselves out there：（不像小孩一样）表现自己。毕竟青少年可不会随便愿意被拉出来唱歌背唐诗哦~~
358
new-fangled：最新奇的，最流行的
359
on good terms with…与某人的关系很好
3. What are the difference between young people’s lifestyle and old people’s lifestyle?
I guess that young people are a lot more carefree360. They’re not as burdened with the stresses of work
– at least not yet – and they don’t have to worry about providing for their families. So they like living in
the moment and taking risks361. In contrast, old people prefer routines and having everything planned
out362. They are more careful with their time and money, so I think they’re a little more stressed out than
young people are.
4. What age do teenagers turn to be adults? / What age do you think people should be considered
as adults?
I suppose teenagers can be considered adults when they turn twenty (20-22). Honestly, most people are
legally adults when they turn eighteen, but from personal experience, you don’t really feel like an adult
until you’re officially363 out of your teens. Plus, when you’re twenty you usually have a job (or a part-
time job) and lots of other responsibilities, which is part of being an adult. So for those reasons, it seems
to me that twenty is a good age to be considered an adult.
5. Do you think teenagers today are better than those 30 years ago?
Well, it’s tough to say since I wasn’t even around 30 years ago. But from what I’ve heard, I think that
teenagers nowadays are better than those 30 years ago. Even though teenagers in the past might’ve been
harder workers because of more difficult circumstances, I think teens nowadays are more knowledgeable
and capable because they’ve had longer and better education. Plus, youth today are more socially
aware364 and globally-minded than the previous generations because of influences from social media.
360
carefree: 无忧无虑
361
living in the moment and taking risks: 活在当下，敢于冒险
362
having everything planned out: 计划好一切
363
officially: 正式地
364
socially aware：更有社会意识，社会责任感
Topic 45. 保护环境的人

1. Do you think it is important to protect the environment?
Yes, I think it’s very important to protect the environment! We depend on the environment to maintain
our way of living, and if we keep damaging it, we won’t be able to live very well. So it’s important
for everyone, no matter their age or occupation, to do their part to help keep the Earth healthy. If we
don’t look out for365 the environment, we’re basically not looking out for ourselves either.
2. Should schools teach students to protect the environment? /Is it necessary to make
environmental protection a subject?
Yes, I believe it’s literally a matter of life and death when it comes to protecting the environment, so
it’s definitely important for students to learn about it. After all, they are the future generation who are
going to inherit the earth. So I think that schools should take up that cause366 and educate students
about how to protect the environment.
3. What should individuals do to protect environment?

I suppose individuals should try to change their daily habits so that they can lend a hand to the wider
environmental protection movement. For example, instead of driving everywhere in a private vehicle,
they could take public transportation to cut down on carbon emissions367. Additionally, they could
try to reduce the amount of plastic and other wasteful materials they go through on a daily basis. It
all adds up in the end368.
见下页
365
look out for：照顾，负责；对环境的不负责就是对我们自己的不负责。
366 take up that cause：承担起这个事业
367 cut down on carbon emissions：减少碳排放
368 It all adds up in the end：最终能够积少成多，聚沙成塔
4. Which industry causes the most environmental pollution? Why?

Well, I don’t know a ton about that kind of stuff369, but I believe the manufacturing industry causes
the most environmental pollution. A lot of factories create greenhouse gases and carbon emissions,
which is very harmful to the atmosphere. Furthermore, manufacturing creates products that are often
wasted or thrown by the wayside370 in our daily lives, such as plastic bags. Those products end up in
landfills371 and result in a lot of pollution.
5. Do you think companies should take responsibility for environmental protection? Why?
Yeah, I definitely think that companies should take responsibility for environmental protection. We
all have to do our part to help protect the environment, and companies are hardly an exception to the
rule372. In fact, I believe they carry more responsibility because they also produce a lot of waste that
can be harmful to the environment. They should try to go paperless373 as much as possible and work
on using environmentally-friendly products in the workplace.
6. What should the government do to reduce pollution?

I suppose the government should take practical measures that help people maintain a high standard
of living while also reducing pollution. For example, they should try to cut down carbon emissions
by implementing a carbon tax 374 . They should also try to encourage people to use public
transportation, which helps reduce air pollution, and it’ll be better if they can introduce other laws
that keep companies from creating too much environmental waste. It’s important that we all do our
part.
369 I don’t know a ton about that kind of stuff：对于这方面，我了解的不多。注意这类表达的灵活运用。

370 thrown by the wayside：扔在路边
371 landfills：垃圾填埋场
372 hardly an exception to the rule: …几乎也不例外
373 go paperless：无纸化办公
374 implementing a carbon tax：收碳排放税
Topic 46. 一个喜欢去学习的地方

1. Do you like to learn on your own or with others?
I think I love learning with others more than learning on my own. When you learn with others, you
have the chance to bounce ideas off of them375 or talk about what you’re learning together. If you’re
on your own, you can get pretty caught up in your own head376 and forget the importance of relating
to other people. Plus a class is way more fun if you have other people to take it with.
2. Do you have a study routine? Will you make a study plan every day? /Will you work or study
by your plan?
I do have a study routine. Every morning, I open my planner and I write down all the assignments I
have to do that day. I assign an amount of time for every assignment so that I can be sure I’ll get them
all done. Sometimes I slack off or get off track377, but for the most part, I stick to my study plan. It’s
worked like a charm378 for me ever since I started university a few years ago.
3. Which is better, studying in a classroom or through the internet?

It seems to me that studying in a classroom is way better than studying through the internet. For one,
there are a lot less distractions in a classroom. Even though you’re surrounded by other students who
can be loud, it’s nothing compared to379 the distractions available when you’re studying through the
internet. You can easily open a new tab and get distracted by something irrelevant. If there’s no
teacher guiding you, you can get off track very fast.
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375 bounce ideas off of them: 从他们身上得到启发和灵感

376 get pretty caught up in your own head: 容易钻牛角尖
377 slack off or get off track：有点懈怠工作，分心
378 worked like a charm：…很有效
379 it’s nothing compared to: 和…没法比
4. Do you need rest during study? How often do you take a break?
Yeah, I generally need rest during study. It’s really easy for me to blow a fuse380 while looking
through notes because it can be very frustrating and draining381. So to avoid that, I take a break every
hour. Even if it’s just for a few minutes, it helps me recharge my batteries so I can focus on studying
and do well on assignments and tests. If I didn’t have breaks, I guess I’d lose my head382.
5. Which is more important, education background or working experience?

Well, it’s hard to say. Sometimes you can’t have one without the other. But I think that in general,
working experience is more valuable. On the one hand, your education background can help you get
great jobs. But on the other hand, having actual experience in a chosen field or specific job can be
really important in daily life. That way, you can build up your resume383 and advance in your career.
It’s a tricky call to make384 though.
6. What makes you lose your concentration on study?

Honestly, I’m easily distracted. So if I have my phone with me and I see or hear it go off with a
message or notification, I immediately drop whatever I’m doing and I go look at it. When I’m
studying, I have to put my phone on silent or else385 I won’t get anything done. All it takes is a glance
at social media to get hooked into it and spend hours scrolling386.
380 blow a fuse：容易生气，无法控制住自己的脾气

381 draining：精疲力竭，心力交瘁
382 lose my head: 晕头转向，失去理智
383 build up your resume: 丰富你的简历
384 It’s a tricky call to make：这是个棘手的问题，很难说清楚
385 or else：否则的话
386 All it takes is a glance at social media to get hooked into it and spend hours scrolling：只是瞅一眼的功夫，就会让你完全陷进
去，好几个小时翻看手机停不下来。（练习中多按照自己的理解去表述，关于练习方法有疑问请随时联系 Penny）
Topic 47. 常做的帮助工作/学习的事情

1. What’s the routine of people in your country?
I think that most people in China work 9-5 jobs. So basically they’re busy during most of the day, but
they have evenings and weekends off to spend at home. If they’re students like me, their routine is
based around school. They go to classes during the day and then study at night. People usually only
break their routine for vacations or holidays, which usually come around summer or winter.
2. Some people don't have a daily routine. Is it good?

Honestly, that sounds really relaxing. But I believe that having a daily routine is important. It keeps
you on track387 and prevents wasting time on meaningless things. I think that a routine can help people
from falling into a slump388. It’s not good to just sit around or to constantly change what you’re doing
from day to day. Having a set routine to follow can definitely help you be productive and make the
most of a day.
3. Is it important for children to have a daily routine? Why?

Yes, it’s really important for children to have a set routine. For one, it gives them a sense of order389.
By having a schedule to follow, kids can feel like things are in control. This will help them have less
stress and anxiety. Another advantage is that it teaches them how important it is to manage time well.
That’s a skill that’ll really help them out in the long run. In general, people with good time
management are usually more productive at work as well.
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387
keeps you on track: 保证你一直在做自己该做的事，没有脱离轨道
388
slump：表现不好或状态差
389
a sense of order：井然有序的感觉
4. Which kinds of jobs need a routine? Which kinds of jobs don't need a routine? Why?
Off the top of my head, manufacturing jobs require a routine. You have to do things in a very specific
order390 in factories and other places like that, so it’s safe to say things are pretty routine in those
kinds of occupations. But jobs that involve service, whether it’s sales or designing, don’t have the
same kind of routines. You can be more flexible in those types of jobs since customers’ demands
change over time. Besides, I believe jobs that involve research also don't need a routine because
people who need to do that have to be creative and can’t be limited by a fixed schedule.
5. Should daily routine on holidays be the same as usual?

Well, if you’re on holiday, there’s no need to follow your usual daily routine. One of the best things
about holidays is that they’re a break from routine. It gives you the chance to shake things up391, but
not for so long that you become out of touch with392 your routine altogether. Honestly, I think it’s
important to take a break, because otherwise you can get sick and tired of the same old thing and feel
really bored with your life.
390
in a very specific order：特定规划好的顺序
391
shake things up：做一些改变
392
out of touch with：这里指与日常生活习惯脱节
Topic 48. 理想的房子

1. What types of residential houses are popular in China?
Most Chinese people prefer living in flats or apartments in high rise buildings. It’s especially the most
popular living option for urban people. I suppose that the most important reason why Chinese people
have this preference is that apartments are more affordable than a detached house393, even though
most of them still carry the burden of a huge mortgage394 through buying an apartment. Plus, living
in an apartment isn’t high-maintenance395. As long as it’s well-decorated, it can easily be a sweet
home.
2. Do people prefer living in an apartment or a house?

I think it depends on the person, but usually people prefer living in an apartment. For one, apartments
are a lot cheaper than houses. In general, families can afford to buy an apartment, even though most
families will get saddled with a mortgage396. But it’s unrealistic to buy a house in China for an average
family397. Plus, apartment buildings, especially the high-rises, are usually located in urban areas.
Living in an apartment usually means being closer to the downtown area of a city, which means more
convenience and easy access to a lot of public services.
3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in an apartment or a flat?

A big advantage is that it’s a lot cheaper compared to living in a house. You don’t have to worry
about up-keep398 as much. You can also get a cooler view if you’re living on a higher floor. But on
the downside, apartments don’t have as much space as houses do. You get a small balcony instead of
a big backyard. Plus, you might have noisy neighbors that would bug399 you more in an apartment
than in a house.
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393
a detached house：独立屋
394
carry the burden of a huge mortgage：承担巨额房贷
395
high-maintenance：维护费用不需要很高
396
get saddled with a mortgage：背负贷款，被贷款缠身
397
an average family：普通家庭
398
up-keep：维护，维修
399
bug：烦恼，惹人烦
4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a house?

The first advantage that comes to mind is that you have lots of space when you live in a house. You
can have a large living room as well as multiple bedrooms. If it’s big enough, you can also put a gym
in there. Plus, living in a house usually means you have a front yard or a backyard where you can
grow flowers or plants that you like. However, houses are way more expensive to live in. You usually
have to get a mortgage, which really costs a pretty penny400.
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in cities?

Off the top of my head, an advantage of living in a city is that you have access to lots of different
things. There’s a variety of facilities and stores to go to. There are usually more job opportunities as
well. But every rose has its thorn. Cities can be very crowded and expensive to live in. It’s very
common to see people packed like sardines on public transportation in cities, especially during rush
hour. Plus, a lot of urban people in China say the cost of living in a city makes them very stressed
nowadays.
6. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in the countryside?

One big plus of living in the countryside is that you get to be around nature401. Most of the time, you
get to breathe fresh air and enjoy beautiful natural scenery. Another nice thing is that there’s lots of
space. It isn’t all jam-packed with buildings. But on the downside, there may not be as many stores
and facilities to enjoy. Life in the countryside tends to be very slow-paced, which can eventually
become boring.
7. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a new house? How about living in an
old house?
Well, when you live in a newly built house, everything is up-to-date and usually suits your tastes402.
It’s really nice living in a place like that because it feels very modern and stylish. But that can be
pretty expensive. Some new houses cost an arm and a leg to move into. Old houses are usually much
cheaper. So they’re more affordable for average families. But they probably require a lot more
maintenance to keep up.
400
costs a pretty penny：花费一大笔钱
401
get to be around nature：亲近大自然
402
suits your tastes：适合你的口味，符合你的需求
Topic 49. 感兴趣想了解的历史时期

1. What can we learn from historical heritages?/Why should we protect old buildings?
Historical heritages can teach us about society and culture before our time. They’re an important part
of understanding who we are and where we came from. It can help explain why things are the way
they are now, like why we have certain traditions and beliefs. Actually nothing is set in stone403;
history is always changing, and understanding the history of our heritages can help us continue to
shape them.
2. How can we protect old buildings? (government and common people)

I think the government can protect old buildings by putting rules in place that forbid their destruction.
If they make laws about preserving old buildings because of their historic and cultural value, then
nobody can legally tear them down404 or repurpose them405. Ordinary citizens can help protect old
buildings by advocating for those kinds of laws and raising awareness about how important they are.
In the end, everyone can do their part406 to protect these buildings.
3. Is it useful to learn history?/What can we learn from history?

Yes, I believe it’s definitely worth your while407 to learn about history. After all, history helps explain
how we got to where we are today, and why that’s important. For example, history can teach you
about the place where you live, where certain traditions and beliefs come from, and important and
inspiring figures from the past. Plus, it helps us learn from past mistakes.
4. What are the ways to learn history?

Well, we can learn about history from studying history textbooks, but there are definitely more ways
than that. For example, we can watch old documentaries to see what life was like before we were
even born. We can also watch films and look at paintings from different time periods to learn about
the culture they came from. Plus, younger people can always talk to the older generations to learn
about their lives.
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403
set in stone：一成不变的
404
tear them down: 拆除
405
repurpose them：改建（用作其他用途）
406
do their part：尽自己的一份力
407
worth your while: 值得你花时间去做…
5. Do people prefer learning history through books or movies?
I suppose that people prefer learning about history through movies. Most of the people I know don’t
care for reading; books just aren’t their cup of tea. Instead, they like watching movies to learn about
history. It’s much more visual and engaging408 than books are. After all, everything is shown on
screen in front of you. You don’t have to imagine it for yourself. Plus, things are easier to remember
when you see them acted out409.
6. Why are some people not interested in history?
Well, some people don’t have any interest in history mainly because they only care about what’s
happening now. They don’t want to pay attention to what happened in the past. Honestly, many people
think history is too far from their daily life and feel learning history isn’t that helpful to one’s job and
life. Another reason is that history classes can often be really boring, so they focus on other things
and get distracted very easily. They may not realize how cool history can be. Personally, I’ve never
been a big fan of history. I think learning about the present is more important.
7. How can teachers make history classes more interesting?
I suppose that teachers can make history classes more interesting by using different kinds of media.
Instead of just using textbooks, they can show their students historical movies or let them read
historical novels. They can also try to get students to imagine what it would be like to live in past
centuries. This could involve assigning interesting projects that get students to think outside the box
and use their imagination.
408
engaging：有趣的，吸引人的
409
acted out: 演绎出来
Topic 50. 捡到别人丢了的东西

1. What kinds of things do people usually find?
Well, lots of people are forgetful these days, so I think it’s pretty common to find small objects like
sunglasses and keys lying around. Those things can easily fall out of people’s pockets. Sometimes
people even lose their phones, which is pretty unfortunate. I remember just the other day410 my friend
and I found someone’s wallet on a bench at a shopping mall. We didn't have time to contact the owner
myself so we gave it to the lost and found of the shopping mall.
2. What would normal people do when they find something doesn't belong to them?
I think the normal response is to411 bring the item to the lost and found. Normally, people don’t take
things they find for themselves. After all, it’s rude to take something that doesn’t belong to you. So
it seems to me that the proper protocol412 is bringing the item somewhere it can be found by its owner.
Another good idea is to give it to the authorities, but usually that’s just if it’s a big-ticket item413 like
a laptop.
3. How should parents educate their children when they find something that doesn't belong to
them?
Parents should be gentle but firm414 if their children have something that doesn’t belong to them.
They have to teach them that it’s wrong to take something that isn’t yours. But the child might not
know that, so the parents should patiently explain it. If possible, maybe they can get the child to return
the item to its proper owner. When I was little, I accidentally took a toy from my friend, and my
parents corrected me right away.
见下页
410
just the other day: 几天前
411
the normal response is to：正常的反应是…
412
protocol：礼节
413
a big-ticket item: 昂贵、高价的东西
414
gentle but firm：耐心、温柔，但坚决、坚定
4. Generally speaking, why do some people like to collect things?

Well, some people like collecting things because it relaxes them. It’s a good habit to develop if you
want something to wind you down at the end of a long day. It gives you something to focus on other
than your own stress and worries. For example, many office workers are comic books collectors; this
is a good way for them to unwind415. I also think collecting things can be really satisfying. When you
find something to add to the collection, it gives you a sense of fulfillment.
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of keeping collections?

I suppose one big advantage is that it’s a cool subject of conversation. You can bond over it 416 with
people who have similar collections or people who are interested in what you collect. Another
advantage is that it gives you an interesting habit. But on the flip side, it can create a lot of clutter417
in your house. Plus, keeping collections can stress you out if you take them too seriously. For example,
my cousin collects stamps. Whenever a new kind of stamp comes out, he is so worried about not
being able to get it, because most stamps are limited edition.
415
unwind：放松
416
bond over sth：用…拉进和别人的距离
417
clutter: 杂乱（名词）
Topic 51. 让你笑的电影或电视

1. Why do children like laughing? What makes children laugh?
It seems to me that children like laughing because they are easily amused418. For example, if you tell a
kid a simple joke, they’ll probably end up busting a gut. They also love laughing when they see funny
things, like people making faces or a person falling. Even though it might seem pretty immature to us
adults, it really gets kids going and makes them laugh out loud.
2. Do you think adults are likely to be happier than children?

Actually, I don’t think adults are likely to be happier than children. I suppose that children are much
more carefree so they tend to be very happy and relaxed. Besides, adults have a lot of responsibilities.
They’re often tied down with work or study419 and sometimes have to worry about providing for their
families420. That can give adults a lot of stress, which means they can often be in a sour mood421.
3. Is laughing good for people’s health?

Yes, laughing is definitely good for people’s health! It’s not good for you to always be downcast422 and
serious. I’ve heard it said that423 laughter is the best medicine, which I believe has some real truth to it.
Even though it can’t heal all illnesses424, it can lower your amount of stress425. Stress is tied to lots of
different health issues, so it’s always good to try and bring your stress level down by laughing.
见下页
418
be easily amused：很容易被逗乐
419
tied down with work or study: 忙于工作和学习
420
providing for their families: 养家
421
in a sour mood：心情不好，情绪不好
422
downcast: 沮丧
423
I’ve heard it said that：我听过这么一种说法…
424
heal all illnesses：治愈所有的疾病
425
lower your amount of stress：减轻压力
4. Why are some people good at telling jokes, while others are not?
Well, I guess that when it comes to telling jokes, you have to have a good memory and great comedic
timing426, plus you have to be a good storyteller. This basically means that you have to remember all the
important parts of the joke and tell it in an entertaining way. Having the right inflection427 can also be
important to tell the joke right. Some people just don’t have those qualities so they aren’t good at telling
jokes.
5. Should school classes be funny? / Should teachers be funny?

Honestly, I don’t think that’s necessary. The main goal of classes is to be educational, not to be
entertaining. So even though humor can help information go down a little more smoothly428, I don’t
think it’s as important. It definitely shouldn’t be a requirement. As for teachers, it’s pretty much the same
idea. Humor can make a teacher more relatable429 to their students but in my opinion, it’s definitely not
a must for them to be funny.
426
comedic timing：（把握好）让人笑的时机
427
inflection：音调变化
428
go down a little more smoothly: （知识）更容易被接受
429
relatable：让人觉得很亲切，很愿意接近
Topic 52. 童年游戏

1. What’s the most popular game now?
Um…off the top of my head, cellphone games are crazy popular nowadays. I’m not so obsessed with
cellphone games, but basically all my friends play games on their cellphones. Particularly, I’ve often
seen my friends and other young guys playing a shooting game called “Chi ji430” on their cellphone
recently. It seems that you can team up with people online and have a blast shooting others in this
game. It’s not my cup of tea, but as far as I know, it’s the most popular game at present.
2. Why do people play different kinds of games after they grow up?
Well, I suppose it’s mostly about their maturity and intelligence levels changing. For example, when
you’re a kid, you’re satisfied with playing simple games like tag431 or hide-and-seek432. But when
you get older and more mature, you’re generally smarter as well, so you want to play games that are
more intellectually stimulating433. For example, you might move onto something like card games or
mah-jong434. Those are probably more up older people’s alleys435 rather than childhood games.
3. Do you think winning is the most important goal of playing games?

No, I don’t think that at all. Winning isn’t always the most important goal when it comes to playing
games. Sometimes it’s more about bonding with someone or just enjoying spending time with them.
For example, when I play games with my friends, my only goal is kicking back and relaxing with
them. I’m never upset if I lose. Honestly we should not encourage people to focus only on winning;
it results in a lot of sore losers436.
见下页
430
Chi ji: 吃鸡，也可以说中文全称“绝地求生”
431
tag：捉人游戏
432
hide-and-seek：捉迷藏
433
intellectually stimulating：启发思维，提高智力
434
mah-jong：麻将
435
up older people’s alleys：up sb’s alley 表示正好是某人喜欢的东西
436
sore losers: 输不起的人
4. Do children prefer indoor games or outdoor games?

I believe children prefer outdoor games. Most of the kids I know are pretty active; they hate being
cooped up437 indoors. When they’re allowed to run free outside, they usually have a blast compared
to having to be inside. Plus, outdoor games can usually be more active than indoor ones. For example,
it’s pretty hard to play a fun game of soccer inside. That being said438, the shy kids like being inside,
so I guess it depends on their personality.
437
being cooped up: 被关起来
438
That being said：话虽这么说
Topic 53. 重要的植物

1. Do people in your country like to grow plants at home?
Yes, there are definitely people who like growing plants at home. Even though it can be hard to find
the space, it’s really lovely to have plants around because they can brighten up any living space439.
For example, my aunt has a row of cute plants on her balcony. She doesn’t use them for food or
anything; they’re really just window-dressing. But it sets my mind at ease440 to sit with her on her
balcony and admire the greenery.
2. Who likes growing plants more, old people or young people?

I guess old people like growing plants more. Honestly, I don’t think young people have the patience
to watch a seed grow into a plant; they like everything to be done with a snap of their fingers441. Plus,
a lot of young people I know don’t really see the point of442 growing plants at all. But on the contrary,
old people enjoy taking care of things. They have more nurturing443 personalities.
3. Are trees or plants important to cities?

Yes, I think so. For one, they provide more oxygen for citizens to breathe, so they’re essential to life
in that manner444. For another, they make cities look beautiful. You’d get pretty bored of a place with
only grey concrete and cement445; it makes a world of difference to have greenery in the area. I believe
it really brightens people’s day to see a little bit of nature around them.
见下页
439
brighten up any living space：点亮生活，给生活空间加点颜色
440
sets my mind at ease：让我很放松、心静平和
441
with a snap of their fingers：easily, 不费吹灰之力
442
the point of: …的意义
443
nurturing：培养，养育
444
in that manner: 在这方面
445
grey concrete and cement：（只有）混凝土和水泥（的城市）
4. Do children need to learn how to grow plants? (Should school set up courses about growing
plants?)
Yes, I think children need to learn how to grow plants. It helps them develop a sense of responsibility
and focus on things outside of their own needs. When kids are given a plant to take care of, they have
to pay attention to it and look after it on a daily basis, like watering it or observing its growth. Through
this process, they can also learn how to take care of others. Besides, for some children, they can
discover an interest in biology. Perhaps it would be helpful for their career choice in the future.
5. Why do some people like to move to the countryside?

I believe some people like to move to the countryside because it provides a more peaceful
environment for them to live in. For example, my grandparents moved from the city to the countryside
because the hustle and bustle of the city was really wearing them down 446. Aside from that, the
countryside offers beautiful scenery for people to enjoy. It can really set your mind at ease to see
nature all around them.
446
wearing them down：（让他们）很心累
Topic 54. 想学的二外

1. Should everyone learn a foreign language?
Yeah, I believe it’d be a great idea for everyone to learn a foreign language. For one, having a second
language can help brain development. For another, if you travel somewhere and everyone is speaking a
different language, it could be very helpful if you happen to know it. So not only can language sharpen
your intellect, but it can also help you to immerse yourself in447 new places and cultures.
2. What can people do to learn a second language?

I suppose there are tons of ways for people to learn a second language. The first one that comes to mind
is taking a class. Plenty of schools have elective courses448 where you can learn a foreign language. But
if you’re not in school anymore, you can always take an online class or even download an app to learn
another language. Another way is to actually travel somewhere foreign and try to pick up449 the language
from the locals.
3. Why do some people learn a language well, while others don’t?

I think a lot of it comes down to memory450. And good memory definitely helps when you learn a new
language. For example, my best friend Lisa learned English faster than the rest of us because she’s a
whiz 451 when it comes to memorizing things. In contrast, sometimes it’s hard for the rest of us to
remember the words, pronunciation, and grammar rules – information comes in one ear and goes out the
other452. So while Lisa was a natural in the English class, many of us struggled through most of it.
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447
immerse yourself in：融入
448
elective courses：选修课
449
pick up：（无意识的）学会
450
comes down to…：归结为…，是…的原因
451
whiz: 天才
452
comes in one ear and goes out the other: 左耳朵进，右耳朵出
4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a universal language in the world? What
are the advantages and disadvantages of only having one language in the world?
I think there are lots of pros and cons for having a universal language. For one, it would make
communication super easy since everyone would be able to understand each other. For another, it would
probably result in less prejudices because no one would say their language is superior to another’s. But
if we only had one language, we would lose all the different cultures that different languages represent.
It would be a crying shame453 for that to happen.
5. What’s the best way to learn a new language?

It seems to me that the best way to learn a new language is a combination of taking classes and working
with someone who speaks it as a first language. For example, one of my friend wanted to learn Japanese,
so she took an online class and then spent some time in Japan, where she hired a tutor to help her work
on her pronunciation. So I suppose that’s the most effective way to learn a new language.
6. How should teachers improve English classes?

Well, given the fact that I’ve been learning English in China for over a decade, I believe the biggest
problem with our English classes is that they’re way too exam-oriented454. I really hope English teachers
in China can change their classes from teaching to the test to practical USE of English. I mean, many
students are learning mute English455, which means they can read and write in English, but can’t speak
it well. So it would be awesome if English teachers can teach their students how to actually use this
language.
7. What other kind of language is important besides English?

Well besides English, as far as I know, Spanish is also an important language in the world. You know,
it’s widely used all over the world; countries like Spain, Mexico and tons of South American countries
all speak Spanish. There are also many Spanish speakers living in the States and Canada. Given456 China
has international trades with so many Spanish-speaking countries, I think being able to speak Spanish
greatly enhances your resume.
453
a crying shame：让人觉得很遗憾的一件事
454
way too exam-oriented: 太过于应试了
455
mute English：哑巴英语
456
Given：考虑到
Topic 55. 第一部手机（低频疑似在考题）

1. Do you think kids should have phones?
Personally, I don’t think kids need phones until they’re at least a teenager, or maybe even older than
that. Nowadays, everyone’s addicted to their phones. You only see someone without a phone once in
a blue moon. I believe for kids, they should learn how to socialize not just on a screen, but in person.
That’s an important skill for them to have in the long run.
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of cellphones/smartphones?

Cellphones have tons of advantages. They make life a breeze by making information more accessible.
Plus, they make it easy to contact people, whether they’re your friends and family or strangers from
halfway across the world. But every rose has its thorn457. Cellphones can make socializing in person458
harder to do, since everyone’s used to talking on a screen.
3. What do people at different ages do with cellphones?

I suppose younger people, like kids and teens, use cellphones to go on social media or listen to music.
Many of them are hooked on their phones because of how easy they make it to just stay in their own
little world. But I think older people, like adults and the elderly, mainly use cellphones to call or
otherwise contact people, like their friends or family members.
见下页
457
every rose has its thorn: 每朵玫瑰都带刺，事物都有优缺点
458
in person: 当面，面对面
4. Why people prefer texting over calling others?

It seems to me that people prefer texting over calling because it’s a lot easier in some ways. For
example, if you’re somewhere quiet like a library, or even if you’re just somewhere public, you might
not want to make a personal call so everyone can hear you. If you text, you don’t have to worry about
keeping your voice down. Plus, for people who are anxious about talking on the phone, texting makes
life a breeze.
5. What kind of apps are favored by young people?

Well, young people prefer social media apps, like WeChat and Weibo. Older generations probably
like more practical things like banking apps, but young people are all about communicating, whether
it’s with close friends or strangers on the internet. The younger generation also likes feeling connected
with what’s going on around the world, and social media really helps them keep in the know.

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雅思过过过淘宝店铺原创 （2019.01.

2019 年 1-4 月雅思口语 Part 3 高频考题参考资料

1. 2019 年 1-4 月 Part 3 高频考题整理如下，请大家按照 topic 序号对应查找相关话题和素

2. 注意 Part1 和 Part3 考官可以即兴提问（尤其 Part3），因此无法覆盖全部考题。

可以微信联系 Penny 咨询。

2019 年 1-4 月雅思口语 Part 3 高频考题题目列表

2. Do people prefer to receive handmade gifts or something bought in stores?

4. Who are better at making handcrafts, boys or girls?

5. Is it important to learn art or music?

6. Do you have any handmade creativity education programs in China?

7 a creative outlet to blow off some steam: 释放压力和感情的更有创意的方式

2. What do people learn from parents and teachers respectively?

3. What skills should be taught to kids before they go to school?

4. In general, what skills do adults need to have?

coworkers. That’s an important skill you need for life. 见下页

5. What are the skills that you want to learn?

5. How about getting information from TV?

2. Is it good for athletes to endorse brands?

3. Are there too many sports programs on TV?

4. Why people like watching sports rather than do sports themselves?

2. What skills may take a long time to learn?

3. Do young people like to spend their time on learning new skills?

31 blowing up at sb. 冲某人发火

4. Why do people like to spend a lot of time learning new skills?

6. Do people feel satisfied after they have learned a new skill?

39 get bored out of your skull: 会极度无聊

2. What kind of news do people like?

4. Besides TV, how do people get news?

6. Do you think we should pay attention to the latest news?

2. What are the public facilities near your home?

4. Are new public facilities better than old ones?

2. What do people usually do to maintain their health?

3. Is health education important?

4. What kinds of lifestyles are unhealthy?

5. What can doctors do to help people solve health-related problems?

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of playing indoor sports?

3. What sports involve teamwork?

4. What kinds of outdoor sports are popular in your country?

5. Which one is more exciting, indoor sports or outdoor sports?

Topic 10. 想做但没时间做的事

2. What are the effective ways to manage time?

3. Which kinds of things will occupy a whole day for people?

4. Do you think most people can manage their time well?

Topic 11. 收到自己恰好需要的礼物

2. What things do young people like to buy?

3. Why do people buy things that are not necessary？

4. Can shopping promote a country’s economy?

5. Do your friends influence your shopping choices?

Topic 12. 买了却不经常用的东西

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of shopping at a mall?

3. Which one is more important for buying an item, quality or price?

4. Are used items recycled in your country? Is it common?

5. Do you pay attention to environmental protection?

Topic 13. 一次设备坏掉的经历

2. Are you good at handling problems on your own?

3. What do people feel when they buy new equipment?

4. Do you think modern technology makes people lazier?

Topic 14. 抱怨但有好结果

2. Do complaints really work? Can complaints help solve problems?

3. Do young people complain more than old people?

4. Which is better, a face-to-face complaint or a complaint letter?

5. Why do companies need to solve customers’ complaints actively and quickly?

Topic 15. 被骗的经历

2. Is telling small lies harmful? Is telling small lies a big deal?

雅思过过过淘宝店铺原创（2019.01.