Who these two people are
How you know these people
How much these two people have similar personalities (characters) / how much they look similar
And explain how (or, how well) the two people get along with each other.
I know many people and many
But, here I would like to talk about two people of the same
They live in my
I have known them since my
They are my friends Their names are Jyoti and Simran.
They are sisters, in fact they are
They spend all their time
In fact they seem
I chose to talk about them because they are my good
The yare 22 years
They both have long hair, fair complexion and sparkling black
Jyoti has a mole on her chin and this is the only point of difference in
They look as similar as two peas in a
But when you come to know them better, you find that they are poles apart in nature. Jyotiis a very polite and down-to-earth person whereas Simran is very blunt and rude at
Despite their differences, they get along very well
Jyoti is an extrovert and likes
She is also very
Whenever I am in any need I go to
She never lets me
In fact she helps anyone who goes to her for any
Simran, on the other hand, is an
She is very quiet and remains in her own
She gives the impression of being
But as I know her well, I know that she is just the quiet
She likes her own company and can sit alone for
I sometimes wonder how two identical twins could be so different in
I like both of them, but I have a better rapport with
We were in the same
We used to go to school
Both were good at
They did their masters in computer
Now both are working in a multinational

Cue Card 1: Follow up Questions

Family Life

Have there been any changes to family life in your country in the past 20 or 30 years?
Yes, the last two or three decades have seen a lot of changes to family life. Earlier we had joint families but now nuclear families are the In most families both parents are working, and children are left on their own after school hours.

Do you think modern families are the same as families in the past?(Same as above)

What effects do you think this might have in the future?

This might have great effects in the future. The bonding with grandparents will decrease. Children would not know how to get along with relatives. Because of less care and affection children might go on the wrong path.

How do you think family life might evolve in the future?

What the future holds for us is difficult to predict, but as far as I can see, people are becoming aware and are realizing the importance of family. I cannot see people going back to the joint family system, but close-knit extended families will become very common. Some people are also downshifting, which means that they are not accepting any promotions, so as to give more time to their family.

Compared to 20 or 30 years ago, do people today spend more time together as a family, or less time?

Unfortunately, nowadays, people are spending much let less time together as a family then in the past. What time they’re spending together is also very superficial, because everyone is busy on their own electronic gadgets, and they’re hardly talking to each other. It is only when they go for outings as a family that didn’t spend sometime together and come to know each other.

Would you say family is important to most people?

Yes, family is important to most people, because most people realize that friends can be fair-weather friends, but family will be with them through their thick and thin. There is a very famous Chinese adage that ‘in times of test family is best’

Is family important to you?

Yes, family is very important to me. I love my family a lot. I cannot place my friends above my family.

Do young people like to spend time with their parents?

It is a difficult question to answer, because we cannot generalize it for all young people. Most young people like to spend time with their friends more than with their parents. They feel more comfortable with their friends, cause their line of thought is similar. When they are with their parents, they have differences of opinions, which we call the generation gap.

For young people, which are more important, their friends or their parents?Both are important, but for most young people friends are more

Do you think the role of women (wife/mother) in the family has changed in the past few decades?

Yes, the role of women has definitely changed in the past few decades. Now, women also go out to work, and so the role in the family has also begun to be shared by both husband and wife.

Which do you think is better, to have a small family or a big family? (I.e., the number of children)

It’s better to have a small family, because then you can look after your family better. You can provide the best education to children, and you can spend more time with them.

Havefamily values changed much in the past few decades?

Family values have changed a lot in the past few decades. Joint families have almost disappeared. People live self-centered and isolated lives. Face to face communications have become rare.

Do you think it’s good for older members of the family (grandparents) to live with their sons or daughters?

I definitely think it is good for the older members to live their sons or daughters. They could look after the grandchildren, and teach them moral values. Grandchildren love the affection showered on them by grandparents. Grand parents also spend happy time with them and not feel socially isolated. It would be a win-win situation for all.

Do you think there are any benefits from having older members of the family living with (grandparents) the younger members?

(same as above)

What do family members in India do together?

Family members do a lot of things together. They eat together, watch TV together, entertain guests together, go for outings together, cook together, do shopping together and do many other things together.

If a child has no brothers or sisters, (a single child), do you think they can communicate with their parents better or not as well as a child from a big family?

An only child has only his parents to communicate with, so it can be said that he can communicate with his parents better. However, I do not think that being an only child has anything to do with the ability to communicate. It all depends on the parents.

Do (young) people today still like living with their parents as much as young people did years ago?

Today’s young people like to live alone, because they like their independence. They do not like the old ways of their parents.

Whatare some of the problems that people have when they live alone?

There are many problems they face when they live alone. They feel lonely when they have some health problems. They have to lock their homes properly when they go out. Their children are not looked after well when they are at work. They may mismanage their money without any guidance, and land up in debt.

What are the benefits (and possible disadvantages) of living in extended families?Extended families are a blessing. In such families, people live in nuclear units but are very connected to each They have no disadvantages. They have all the advantages of nuclear and joint families.

Do you think the government should be responsible for teaching people about parenting? (teaching parental skills)

Good parenting is a challenge, but I don’t believe that government is responsible for teaching people about parenting. The government can however aware people to join parenting classes.

Whenboth parents go out to work, how does this affect their family?

When both parents go to work, they have to be very careful about the upbringing of their children. They have to see to it that their children are not neglected. They also have to look into the security of their home when they go to work.

Whatare the responsibilities of parents?

Good parenting is a daunting task. Parents are responsible for bringing their children into this world. They have to see that the children grow up to be responsible citizens. They have to make their children self-dependent and responsible. They must give quality time

to the children. They must provide good education to the children so that their children do not face any difficulties in their adult life.

Whatproblems do people have when they are trying to bring up a child or children? People have to face a lot of problems when they bring up the They have to earn enough to give them the best education. They have to give time to the children to teach them moral values. They have to keep an eye on the friend circle of their children. They have to see, where to be friendly and where to be firm with their children. Sometimes one parent may have to give up his or her job for bringing up the children.

InIndia, do employers provide any support for parents?

I am not severe if private companies are going so, but many government offices do we have anganwadis, where working mothers can leave their 0-6 year old children safely during work hours.

Howdo parents (in your culture) try to correct bad behaviour in the children (and teach good behaviour)?

Parents try to correct the bad behavior of their children, by telling them that something they did is bad, and they should not do it again. Sometimes the parents have to scold the child or even give a physical punishment, if the change continues to do his bad behavior.

The Influence of Friends & Family

Howdo people choose their friends?

It depends on age. Small children are not judgmental, and can make anybody their friend. Their friendships are very innocent. Older people however, make friends by carefully judging the other person. They become very calculative. They try to see if the other person can be useful to them. They see the likes and dislikes of the other person. They see if the interests of the other person match their interests.

Areyou very similar to your friends?

No I am not very similar to my friends. I am an introvert, but my friend is very outgoing and friendly. She has changed me a lot. I like her because of her extrovert nature. We have similar likes and dislikes. Be both like watching movies and going for long walks. We both dislike eating out. We enjoy each other’s company.

Domost people make friends with others who are similar to themselves, or different to themselves?

It is a matter of personal choice. Some people like similar friends, whereas other people like to make friends with those who are different from them.

Whodo you think has the greater influence on children (and young people), their families or their friends?

Once children start going to school, the influence of their friends becomes more than that of parents. This is because nowadays parents do not given enough time to children. It has been seen that when parents give quality time to their children, read out stories to them, take them for outings and watch TV with them, then their influence is more than that of friends.

Whatinfluence do parents have on the behaviour and attitudes of their children?

Parents have a lot of influence on the behavior and attitudes of the children. Knowingly or unknowingly children copy their parents. They do what their parents do; they behave as their parents behave and they develop the same eating habits as their parents.

Personality Development

Do you feel that the characteristics of parents are always passed on to their children?Genes do play part in the characteristics of a person, but it would be wrong to say that the characteristics of parents are always passed on to the Some children are very different from their parents.

Do children usually have personalities that are similar to their parents?(Same as above)

Doparents affect in a big way the development of their children’s personalities?

Yes, children’s personalities are affected in a big way by the parents. Children imitate their parents, and do everything like their parents do.

If parents are very strict, then children become introverts and withdraw into their shells. Sometimes they may also become rebels. If parents are friendly and caring, then children develop to their full potential.

Do you think people become more like their parents as they grow older?

Not necessarily. Some children imbibe the habits of their parents, but some grow up to be very different.

2. An interesting neighbour

Describe an interesting neighbour of yours.

Howlong you have known this neighbour
Whatsort of person he/she is
Howoften you see him/her
andexplain what kind of relationship you have with him/her or
andexplain why you consider this person to be an interesting

Neighboursare just like family in today’s era of nuclear
Ihave many neighbours and I am very fortunate that all my neighbours are very
HereI would like to talk about my next door neighbour, Mr Joginder
Icall him Jogi
Ifind him very interesting because one can never feel bored in his
Hehas so many interesting stories to
Ihave known him for the past ten years as he moved into our neighbourhood ten years
Isee him every day because I daily go with him for morning
Heis in his
Heis not very tall but looks very
Evenat this age he looks very hale and
Hegenerally likes to wear Kurta
I believe he is a good neighbour because he is always there whenever anyone needs
Healso helped me a lot in my
Hetreats me like his
Eventhough he taught history at college, he helped me in all subjects till my tenth
Heis very helpful to all people in the
Wheneveranyone comes to him for help, he is always willing to
Heis a retired history
Hereads a lot and seems to know something about
Duringour morning walk he tells me many stories about his
Heis a self made
Hetold me how he started from scratch after the partition and worked very hard to make a
Hehas two sons who live in the States but he prefers to lead a simple life in his own home
Ilove listening to his
Healso has a great sense of
Hecan lighten up any tense situation by cracking
Hehas a magnanimous
Hedonates his entire pension for
Hebelieves in simple living and high
So,Joginder singh is the person I like talking to the

Cue Card 2: Follow Up Questions

Neighbours, Friends and Community

Do you think (good) neighbours are important? (Why? How? Why not?

Good neighbors are important because they are our family apart from our real family. When we are alone, and we need somebody then neighbors are the first people who can give us company. When we are sick and need to go to the hospital, the neighbors are the first people who can help. When we have guests and need a helping hand, then neighbors are the first people who come to our rescue

Whatare the qualities of a good neighbour? (What qualities would you like your neighbours to have?)

Good neighbors should have many qualities. They should be cooperative. They should be helpful. Good neighbors should respect boundaries, which means that they should know when they are being helpful, and when they are interfering.

Domost Indian people know their neighbours?

In smaller towns and cities, and in villages most people know their neighbors, but in big cities and in metropolis, people are leading self-centered lives and do not know their neighbors. In small towns and cities life is slower, and so people have time for their neighbors, where as in big cities, life is fast and so people do not have time for their neighbors.

Nowthat most people watch a lot of TV, how do you think this has affected people’s relationships with their neighbours?

Yes, too many channels and 24 hours TV, has certainly affected people’s relationships with their neighbors. Earlier, people had time to come out of their homes and spend time with neighbors, but today everybody’s busy watching their favorite TV program, so we can say that TV has taken away neighborhood time.

Howshould (or, how can) modern people communicate with their neighbours?

People themselves have to realize that good relations with neighbors are very important. Neighborhood parks should be well maintained, so that people can come out with the children and socialize with each other. Potluck lunches and dinners could be organized among neighbors. Important festivals could be celebrated together.

Whatare some of the qualities of a good community?

A good community should care for each other. All people in the community should cooperate with each other. This should help each other in times of emergency. They should all keep the environment clean. They should have frequent get-togethers, and celebrate festivals together. If all people of the community know each other, then miscreants could be spotted easily and everybody would feel safe and secure.

InIndia, are there any facilities for improving relations between neighbours?

Yes, the government authorities such as, PUDA, Punjab Urban Development Authority, has provided well-maintained parks at regular intervals so that people can socialize. Such facilities have been provided by all states. Even the private housing societies, which make and sell apartments, have some combined facilities for all people in that society to use.

Do you think it’s important to teach children how to have good relations with neighbours? (Why?)

Yes, it is very important to teach children how to have good relations with neighbors. Neighbors are very important for everyone. If we will not teach our children today to have good relations with neighbors, they will not carry on this tradition forward and a day will come when everyone will be leading very isolated and secluded lives.

Whatis the best kind of neighbour for a child to have?

Children need neighbors who are friendly with them, who have a good sense of humor, and who can tolerate their naughty pranks without getting mad at them. Good neighbors should also be good role models. For example, they should not smoke or drink or abuse others in front of children.

Isit important for children to grow up in a good neighbourhood? (Why? = How does a good neighbourhood affect children?/Why not?)

It is very important for children to grow up in a good neighborhood. If all people of the neighborhood nice and friendly, then children will also become like them. On the other hand, children cannot blossom nicely in an unfriendly neighborhood

Howdo people of neighbourhood become friends? (or, How can neighbours become friends?)

Neighbors can become friends by meeting each other regularly. They can go for morning and evening walks together. They can have potluck lunches and dinners on weekends.

Arethere any organizations to help people (neighbours) become friends?

As such there are no organizations, but in some places people have themselves stepped forward and made a neighborhood committees.

Whatare some of the reasons why it’s not always easy to make new friends?

There are many reasons why people find it difficult to make new friends. The main reason is that today life has become very hectic. Nobody seems to have time. People have become workaholics, in a quest to earn more and more. Digital relations have grown, but face-to-face relations have come down. People also find it difficult to trust the other person.

Government

Comparethe differences between local and national government in India, in terms of how they are

Local governments look after the state affairs, whereas the central government looks after the affairs of the whole country.

Whatshould be the responsibilities of local government and what should be the responsibilities of national government?

Local government is responsible for developing the infrastructure of the state. It is responsible for maintaining law and order in the state.it is responsible for providing good education and health facilities to people of that state. On the other hand the central government has to look into the defense of the country. It has to look into foreign affairs. It has to look into the economy of the country. It has to allocate funds to the state governments.

Housing

Didyou grow up in an apartment (or a flat) or a house?

I grew up in a house. It is a single story house with some open space in the front and back.

Whichdo you prefer, houses or flats?

I prefer houses, because they’re more open and you can have more privacy in houses.

Do you think people have enough privacy in flats? (E.g., Can you hear your neighbours through the walls?)

I do not think people have enough privacy in flats. Sometimes it is possible to hear noises from the neighboring flats.

3. An event in the history of your country

Describe an important event in the history of your country.

Whatevent it was
Whenit occurred
Howyou know about this event
andexplain why you think it was

Everycountry has its own
Indiatoo has a rich historical
Here I would like to talk about an important event in the history of my country, which isthe Swadeshi
Itwas started by Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation in
Itinvolved boycotting the use of all things of foreign
Itbrought out a sense of patriotism among the people of
Thispatriotism was very much needed in those
Actuallythe Britishers forced the Indians to buy their
Thewhole profits went into their
Thiswas not helping the economy of the
Ifpeople bought only Indian products then at least the profits would remain within
Theculture of India was also taking a back seat because of the use of foreign
Underthe effect of this movement people burnt all foreign made products that were there in their
Thisdefinitely disturbed the British
Duringthis movement large numbers of schools were opened in different parts of the nation particularly in Bengal
Childrenof all castes could study in these
Theseschools also spread Indian culture and
Educationwas given in the national
Manypatriotic songs were also written in that time by Rabindra Nath Tagore and
Icame to know about this event from my history book of 10th
Itwas the first chapter of the
Itwas important because this movement and many other such small steps finally led to the freedom of India in

Cue Card 3: Follow Up Questions

Do you think it is important to know about history?

Yes, it is very important to know about history. History tells us about our past. It teaches us many things. Everything has its history. We enjoy the freedom we have to day only because we knew that once we were slaves. History also teaches us not to repeat the mistakes of the past. We learn about the progress we have made through history.

What can we learn from history?(Same as above)

Howcan people get reliable historical information?

People can get reliable and historical information from books written by eminent historians, from museums, and from art galleries. Now ideas many reliable sites have information about history on the Internet.

How do you think famous historical figures can serve as models for young people today?Yes, famous historical figures can serve as role models for the young people of today. For example, when the young people of my country learn about the sacrifices done by our great martyrs, they are filled with a sense of patriotism, and want to do something for the country

Dopeople in your country like to visit museums?

Yes, people in my country like to visit museums. They learn a lot from them. The modern interactive museums are more interesting for the young people and children. For example, people of my state like to go to Pushpa Gujral Science City museum more than the other museums because they have a lot to do and see over there.

Whodo you think likes to go to museums more – children or adults?

Both, children and adults like to go to museums, but children enjoy those museums, which are interactive.

Do you think museums should be free of cost to enter?

No, I do not think museums should be free of cost. These museums require a lot of maintenance. So a minimum fee should be there. Moreover, people do not value something, which is given to them absolutely free.

Do you think local people and tourists should pay the same amount to enter a museum?Yes, local people and tourists should pay the same amount to enter If tourists were charged more it would be unfair. Some people think that local people are already paying for the upkeep of the museums through taxes, so it would be okay if tourists were charged more. But I feel that tourists are helping in the economy in many other ways, so there is no need to charge them more for museums or other historical sites.

Howdo you think the museums of the future might be different from the museums of today?

What the future holds in store, no one can tell, but as far as I can see, the museums of the future would be more interactive. New things would be added to them from time to time. Activities would be there to entertain the children and others. Audiovisual aids would be used more.

Howdo you think the museums of the future might portray the 21st century?

Museums of the future, might portray the 21^st Century as an era of rapid progress in the field of technology, transport, education and health.

4. A plan of yours not related to work or study

Talk about something that you plan to do in life besides your work and study

What do you want to do?
Whatshould you do for your plan to come true?
Why do you want to do it?
Howwould you feel once you have achieved it?

Iplan to do many things besides my work and
HereI would like to talk about a philanthropic activity which I really wish to
Iwould like to do it with my
Weare four friends – Rohan, Ravi, Tejinder and I
Weplan to open a charitable hospital for the poor who cannot afford
Iknow it is a herculean task but I would definitely be able to achieve it one
Formy plan to come true I know, a lot of hard work is
Iam a student yet, and have to study further and after that get a good job to earn
Oncemy uncle was very ill and was
Hewas in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Ihad to stay with him for a few days in the
Herecovered but the hospital bill was
Myuncle could afford it but there are so many poor people all around us who cannot afford such costly
ThenI decided that in future I would like to help such
When I talked about my plan to my friends, they too liked it and so now we are a teamwith one
Iam very optimistic and I believe that nothing is
Ireally wish God gives me the capability to carry out my future
Iwould be the happiest person on Earth once I achieve my

(Another idea)

Iplan to do many things besides my work and study
Butthe one plan I would like to mention here is of immigrating to
Formy plan to come true I have to work very
Canadais inviting immigrants to settle
Butthey have some pre-requisites.
FirstI have to clear IELTS
ThenI shall consult some immigration agency to study my case and prepare my
Iwant to do so because Canada is a developed country and I have relatives
Whenthey come to India in holidays they spend money as if it grows on
Ialso want to be able to spend so much without giving it a second
Theytell me that they work very hard over
Iam also prepared to work
Iam prepared to do any work to make a
Ihave seen people work very hard here but still they don’t have enough
SoI would like to be a part of the developed
Myfamily would have a better life if I am able to immigrate to
Ilove my country and would definitely like to do something for the needy over
Thatwould only be possible if I earn a lot over there
Iwould feel very happy once I have achieved my

Note – You can also talk about a place you would like to visit

Cue Card 4: Follow ups

Do you think it is important for a person to have a career plan?

Yes, it is very important for a person to have a career plan. A career plan gives a person something to look forward to. He can then plan his education according to that career plan. Without a plan, any work seems meaningless. So, it is very important to have a plan. Sometimes, a person may change his plan midway, but all the same without a plan taking any step ahead is impossible.

Howdo most people plan their future education and their future career?

Most people plan their future education and career by talking to their parents, teachers, career counselors and by consulting some people who are already in the same career.

Do you think it’s important to include the factor of one’s salary in a career plan?

Yes, salary is a very important factor in a career plan. It is generally seen that in the early stages of one’s life money is needed for everything. One cannot go for a career, which doesn’t pay well in the early stages. Later on in life, one can go for a career, which one loves even if it doesn’t pay well.

Do you think planning is important or is it a waste of time?

Planning is very important. It is definitely not a waste of time. If things are done without planning, then it wastes a lot of time because most of the effort may go in the wrong direction and prove futile.

Whatkinds of personal plans should people make for themselves?

People should make plans about their studies, about their careers, about their married life, about places they want to visit, and about their retirement.

Ingeneral, how do people make plans?

People make plans according to their situation, by consulting their elders and also by realizing their own interests and hobbies.

Fora person with children, what influence does this have on their personal plans for the future?

When a person has children, on his personal plans take a backseat, and the upbringing of the child comes first. All the personal plans become flexible and revolve around the needs of the family and children. I think this flexibility has a charm of its own.

5. A café you visited

Café you have visited

Talkabout the interiors of the café
Whendid you visit
Withwhom
Whatdid you like and dislike about it

Ihave visited many cafes in my
HereI would like to talk about café coffee day or CCD as it is popularly
Itis opposite the bus
Theinteriors are very well
Thereare pictures of different types of coffee on the
Thereis very comfortable cane furniture and there is always some light music playing in the
Igo there once or twice a
Lasttime I went there with my friend last
Shetreated me to coffee and do-nuts as her sister had been blessed with a baby
Ilike everything about this café; their coffees are just
Theyoffer Cappuccino, which is a coffee made with hot frothy
Theyalso offer latte, which is stronger than
Mochais a very high quality coffee but is also very
Theyalso have iced coffee and cold
Thething I dislike is that they do not have enough parking and enough seating
Asit is opposite the bus stand, it is a very crowded
CCDis in fact a chain of coffee
Theyalso export their coffee to USA
Theirfirst CCD outlet started in Bangalore in 1996 and now they have outlets all over
Theymake coffee from freshly ground
Theyalso make designs on the coffee with cream like smileys and leaves which look

Cue Card 5: Follow Ups

Cafes and Restaurants

Whatkinds of people choose to go to cafe?

All types of people like to go to cafes. Cafes are nice places to hang out with friends.

Whatis the difference between cafe and restaurant?

Cafes primarily aim to sell coffee – good coffee, different types of coffee – and things that go with coffee, like light sandwiches, cakes, breakfasts, and snacks; also, a variety of drinks as well as tea, for people who don’t like coffee. Restaurants focus on selling you the whole meal.

Whichdo you think is more suitable for a family gathering?

I think a restaurant is more suitable for a family gathering. Restaurants are generally bigger and have more seating capacity then cafés. They have more choice of food also.

Why do some people like to invite others at their home, while some take them out?

Some people like to entertain at home because they feel more comfortable at home with their guests. It is also cheaper at home. People can also show off their culinary skills. Some like to entertain outside in cafes and restaurants because they feel that at home they would not be able to give enough time to their guests, as they would be busy in the kitchen all the time.

Apartfrom eating meals, what are the other things people do together at home?

People watch sitcoms and movies together, they play cards and other indoor games and enjoy each others company.

Do you think it’s suitable to talk in a cafe?

It is perfectly suitable to talk in the café, but it is not suitable to gossip, because other people are also sitting very close to each other, and can overhear you.

Whatare some of the disadvantages of going to cafes?

The main disadvantage is the cost. Most cafés are overpriced.

What do people do in a cafe?

People sit in the café, talk to each other and enjoy their tea coffee and snacks.

Do you often go to a cafe?

No, I don’t often go to a café. There is a CCD in my hometown, but I go there once in two or three months.

Did you ever go to cafe when you were a child?No, I never went to a café in my

Why do some young people prefer to go to a cafe instead of going to a restaurant? Some people prefer a café to a restaurant, because the service is faster in a café. Besides, they don’t want to eat the traditional food, but enjoy the snacks and beverages offered in a café.

Do young people prefer to go to cafes or fast food restaurants such as KFC and MacDonalds? (Why?)

Young people prefer to go to all these places equally.

Whattypes of people choose to go to a restaurant instead of a cafe?

Businessmen choose the restaurant instead of a café, because they can discuss things over lunch or dinner with each other. Cafes are more noisy, because they’re frequented mostly by the young people. In a restaurant, you have more privacy than a Café.

Whichplace do you think would be more suitable for a business discussion, a cafe or a restaurant?

(Same as above)

What do you think of the decor (the inside appearance & furnishings) of most cafes?

The inside appearance and furnishings of most cafés are very important. The décor, if done in soothing shades, gives peace of mind.

Socializing at Home versus Socializing in a Restaurant

Do you often invite friends to visit your home?

Yes, I often invite friends to visit my home. My mother is an excellent cook, and my friends enjoy the snacks prepared by her.

Dopeople in your country feel that they don’t really know someone until they have eaten together? (Why?)

I don’t think so myself. I am not aware if other people of my country think like that.

Why do you think eating is such an important part of socializing?Socializing over food may have some of the following benefits:

It prevents eating on the go in a stressed state, which improves digestion. Secondly, it helps us become open to new experiences and eat outside of our comfort zone. It also helps children learn the importance of taking time to enjoy food. Moreover, it allows us to bond with others over a pleasurable event. It helps us feel as though we belong due to our common interest in food with others. Then, it takes our mind off what we did before sitting down to eat and what we need to do after, encourages us to be present in the moment

Wheredo people generally arrange to meet new friends, at home or in a restaurant or some other eating place?

It’s a matter of personal choice. Normally, people don’t entertain complete strangers at home, but sometimes one has to look at ones pocket also. Entertaining outside could be very costly.

When people are entertaining visitors or friends etc. in your country, do they usually preferto go out to eat in a restaurant or to eat at home?

It depends on the length of stay of the visitors. If the stay is long, then most meals are at home, and only a few are at some restaurant. If the visitors have come for a very short time then they can be taken out, so that you get to spend time with them.

In what circumstances do you think it is more suitable to entertain guests at home?Sometimes the guests prefer to have simple home cooked Sometimes, they may not be able to tolerate the spicy food of restaurants. Sometimes, they may not be in very good health. In all these circumstances, it is better to entertain them at home.

When do people in your country usually choose to entertain guests at home?(Same as above)

Whenpeople have family gatherings in your country, do they usually go to a restaurant or eat at home?

During family gatherings, usually people hire professional cooks for few days in their homes, so that any number of guests can be entertained at any time.

Why do some people prefer not to entertain guests at home?

Some people do not want to entertain guests at home because they do not want to go into the hassle of cooking, and they want to be able to spend time with their guests.

Inyour country, how is the restaurant usually paid when a group of people eat in a restaurant?

Mostly, the host of the party pays, or sometimes people share the bill.

6. A time you spent with a child

Describe an experience when you spent your time with a child

Whowas it
Whatdid you do
Howdid you feel

Iknow many children, and I have spent time with many of them, but here I would like to talk about my niece, Gia, who is three years
Sheis my cousin Jyoti’s daughter, who lives in
Lastyear my cousin spent a week with us, when she came to India in
Giais very cute and I just adore
Sheis a very chubby
Whenshe smiles, she has dimples on both cheeks, which look very
Ialways feel like picking at her cheeks but she screams when anybody does
Shehas curly hair and does not like getting her hair
Ishared my room with my cousin and
Iam a very organised person and keep my room spic and span, but Gia loved to mess everything
NormallyI don’t like if anyone messes up my things but with Gia I didn’t mind at
Iwould make sad faces, when she fiddled with my things, but she would look at me with her cute smile and dimples and then I would forget
Sheloved chocolates and candies and I had kept some in stock for
Sheis only 3 years old but she really knows how to twist everyone around her little
Itis sometimes very amusing to watch her small
Shesurely knows what she wants and gets it
Mycousin told me that she had to leave her job because she wanted to be with her daughter, and not leave her with a
Nanniesare very expensive in Canada, and on top of that, are not very good at their
Schoolsstart only after the child is 5 years
Thereis a park in my neighbourhood, where I took Gia almost every day when she was with
Allthe children in the park would surround her and she loved being the centre of
Sheloved the swings and the merry-go-round in the park, and would cry every time we had to come back
Theweek with Gia passed very quickly
Iam looking forward to her visit this summer
MayGod bless her with a long and happy

Cue Card 6: Follow Ups

Whyis it hard for parents to raise a child?

Raising a child is a full-time job. Many parents find it difficult to raise a child because they are busy in their work, and hence find it difficult to manage enough time. They have to work also because they want to provide their child with the best education and other things. The situation is worse in families where both parents are working.

Whatthings can children learn from toys?

Children can learn a lot from toys. They develop imagination and creativity when they make stories with their toys. They also learned sharing when they share their toys with their friends.

What’sthe best age to raise a child?

As such, there is no best age for raising a child. One should have a child only when one is fully prepared to enter the commitment of raising the child. That is why, perhaps, nowadays people are having children later on in life. Raising a child is a full- time job and requires the full commitment of at least one parent.

What do you think about children from rich families who have lots of toys?

I think it is not good to buy children lots of toys. Children who have lots of toys do not learn to share their toys. They also do not value their toys, because they have too many of them. It also has been seen that children who have lots of toys do not develop their imagination as compared to children who have fewer toys.

Children

Do you think children are important?

Yes, children are important because no one lives forever. Children are the future of any civilization. They carry the times forward.

Howdo you think children and teenagers are different?

Teenagers are also children, but slightly older children. They are confused children. They don’t know whether they are children or adults. When they play with small children they feel out of place, when they sit with older people, they feel out of place. Important physical and hormonal changes are going on in their body, which is stressful for them. They are still children at heart, but they have started looking older.

Do you think children today are happier than children in the past?

No, I do not think so. I think that today’s children are faced with more stress than children of the past. They are exposed to the global culture, and want to adopt it, but their parents want them to stick to the traditional culture. This stress was not faced by the children of the past.

Moreover, children are exposed to a lot of career options, and want to walk on the un- trodden path, but their parents want them to follow the traditional courses and traditional jobs.

Being a Parent

Forparents, what is important when bringing up their child?

It is important to provide their child with a good education, and also teach him/her moral values. Parents need to realize that just providing things to children is not enough; they have to give time also.

What does a child need in order to develop well?

A child needs good education, good surroundings, quality time with family and moral values.

Howdo you think young parents can know how to (or, learn how to) bring up their child?

Yes, young parents can certainly know how to bring up a child. They can learn from their elders at home. If they’re living alone, they can join some parenting classes.

Whodo you think has more responsibility to take care of a child, the mother or the father?

I think both parents have equal responsibility to take care of the child. Raising a child is a daunting task, add should not be left on one parent.

Do you think mothers and fathers have different roles to play in bringing up a child?Nowadays, there’re no gender differences in bringing up a Traditionally, the mother was responsible for the emotional needs of the child, when is the father looked after the financial needs. But today, fathers changing diapers and cooking for their children is a common sight. Both parents have begun to realize that at least one parent should be there with the child in the growing stage.

Who (or, which) do you think is more important for a child, the mother or the father?Both are equally

Why do mothers sometimes have a job outside the home?

Nowadays, mothers have to work outside the home, because two incomes are needed to run the house.

Do you think it’s good for a mother to also have a job?

I think it is good for the mother to have a job, but both parents should manage their time in such a way that their child is not left unattended.

Single-Child Families

Do you have any brothers or sisters?(Personal answer)
(Ifyou answer “No”) Would you like to have a brother or sister?

Yes, I would because I would not feel lonely at any time, and would always have someone to play with or share my feelings with.

No, I am happy being an only child. If I have a brother or sister, I would have to share my room and things. Now, I have the undivided attention of my parents. Then, their love also would be shared.

What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages for children to have brothers and sisters (or, a brother or sister)?

(Same as above)

Forparents, which do you think is better, to have one child or more than one?

I personally think, two children should be there in every family, because children learn to share and care for each other. They also give each other company when parents are busy at work.

Do you think parents of a single child treat their child differently to the way parents who have several children treat their children?

I think, all parents treat all their children the same, but sibling jealousy is very common. Older child feels that more love is being given to the younger child.

(Similarto above, but different) Do you think parents of a single child give their child more love than parents who have several children?

(Same as above)

Children’s Play – Indoors and Outdoors

Isthere any difference between the way children play today and the way children used to play, in the past?

In the past children used to play outdoor games, but today children most deeply indoor games. They play electronic games, which are usually played alone.

Whichdo you think is better (for the development of) children, indoor activities or outdoor activities?

I think both indoor and outdoor activities are needed for the development of children. It is the responsibility of parents to see to it that their children do both indoor and outdoor activities equally.

(Similarto above) Which do you think is better for children, to spend time indoors or spend time outdoors?

I think it is equally important for children to spend time indoors and outdoors.

Whatbenefits are there for children (and/or young people) in playing sport?

Children have a lot of benefits of playing sport. Firstly, it develops them physically. Secondly it also leads to mental development. We all know that a healthy mind resides in a healthy body. Sports also teach children many virtues of life. They learn competition, cooperation and sportsmanship, which means winning with modesty and losing with grace.

Do you think children today should do more physical exercise?

Yes, children today should do more physical exercise because lives have become very sedentary. On top of that children eat a lot of junk food, which is rich in fats and salts and is leading to childhood obesity.

Whatsports do you think are most suitable for children?

All types of sports are most suitable for children. They learn competition from competitive sports, which are played alone, and they learn co-operation from team sports, which they play in a group.

Howdo you think indoor games affect the development of children?

Indoor or electronic games are very important for the development of children.

Videogame playing introduces children to computer technology
Somegames provide practice in problem solving and E.g. Age of Empires
Videogames have proved to improve visual
Theymake learning The cost of failure is lower. This encourages risk-taking and exploration.
Somegames have therapeutic applications with
Gamesare entertaining and

What about outdoor activities? How do they affect the development of children?(Same as answer 25)

Howimportant do you think it is that young children’s play allows them to get some physical exercise (such as running around outside)?

I think it is very important for children to play outside. It gives them the much-needed exercise and also give them a chance to be with nature.

Do you think computer games (and/or hand-held electronic games and /or online computer games) are good for children?

(Same as answer 28)

Do you think watching TV is good for children?

Watching TV is very good for children but only if it is done in a limit. When children watch too much TV, then they forget their homework and other outdoor activities.

Do you think it’s important for children to learn to co-operate with other children?

Yes, it is very important for children to learn to cooperate with others. In adult life we have to cooperate with others around us, and so children should learn this skill in their childhood.

Family Life

Which do you think is better, having (or being part of) a big family or a small family?Both big and small families have their own set of advantages and However, I feel that big families are better.

Pleasecompare the benefits of the nuclear family as opposed to a joint and an extended family?

A nuclear family has a lot of benefits. The cost of running a nuclear family is lesser, because you need a smaller house. In a nuclear family parents can give more time to their children, because they don’t have to look after the other elderly members of the family. There is more privacy in the nuclear family.

On the other hand, in a joint family you’re never alone. Children are well looked after. If managed properly the cost of living of a joint family can also come down, because the ordered expenses are shared. You don’t need two refrigerators, two washing machines and other such things.

Do you think family planning is good?

Yes, I think family planning is very good. First of all, when to have the first child should be planned, and then whether to have the second child should be planned. Planning a family and then running it well, is a daunting task.

Do you think it would be a good idea to have classes, which parents could attend to learn how to be good parents?

Yes, it would definitely be good to have parenting classes, because bringing up children needs a lot of commitment. There is no room for making mistakes.

Children’s Education

Which do you think is most important for a child’s education, family, friends or school?All these things are equally important. A family educates the child in different ways. Friends and schooling have their own role in educating a child. A family gives social Friends teach sharing and caring. Schools impart academic education apart from social values and other things.

(Similar to above) Where do you think children learn more, at home or at school?(Same as above)

Whattypes of books do children like?

Children like books with lots of graphics, such as comics. They also like books of the bold font. They like books, which pique their imagination.

Do you think parents should read adult books to their children?

No, I think parents should read children’s books to children. Children can read adult books when they become adults.

Children, education and play

What do you think are the differences between studying at home (possibly = homeschooling) and studying at school?

When children are homeschooled, they get one on one attention of their teachers. They can study at their own pace. They can study any additional subject of their choice, such as any language. They could do some other activities because the time to going and coming from school is saved.

On the other hand, going to school has its own benefits. Children learn a lot from their peers at school. They can do team sports at school. Practical subjects are better learnt in the laboratories at school.

Why do you think learning theoretical material is emphasized more than learning practical skills in India?

Theory has its own importance. It is the base of all practical work. That is why, perhaps, it is emphasized more.

Why do you think so many Indian people go abroad to study practical skills?

Practical skills are emphasized more in the developed countries. They have a better labs to teach practical subjects.

Do you think the education system in India should be reformed? (If yes, how?)

Yes, I think the education system in India should be reformed. More emphasis should be given to the practical skills.

Children and families

Do you think hitting children is sometimes necessary for discipline? (Why?)

I do not think corporal punishment is needed to discipline the child. Corporal punishment can prove very damaging in the long run. Children can become rebels or they may withdraw into their shell. Corporal punishment can turn stubborn children into even more stubborn children.

7. A polite person

Describe a polite person who you know.

Whothe person is
Howyou know him/her
Andexplain why you think this person is

Politenessis a very nice
Iknow many polite persons but here I would like to talk about the politest person known to
Heis none other than my
Heis in his late
Heis not very tall but looks very
Hishair is graying at the temples but he doesn’t dye his
Hebelieves in going grey gracefully
Hedoes not do anything special to show his
Hispoliteness is reflected by his way of talking to
Heis very
Ihave seen that many times he goes out of the way to help
Thatis why everyone in my family and neighbourhood loves
Heis very
Evenif he is himself sad or depressed, he never lets it affect
Heis a perfect role model for
Mygrandfather is a bit short tempered but my father always shows respect to him and does whatever he
Heis also a perfect
Healways listens to my mother and lets her have her way in family
Theyboth are a perfectly happy
Heis also a perfect
WheneverI am wrong or make any unfair demand then he reasons with me like a
Hebelieves that if we want to earn love and respect then we must first learn to give love and
Heuses the word ‘ji’ for calling For example if calls our gardener as maaliji and our laundryman as dhobiji.
Thatis why I can call him the politest person known to

Cue Card 7: Follow ups

Politeness in Your Country

Do you think you are a polite person?

Yes, I think I’m a polite person. I don’t speak rudely with anyone. I try to help anyone who comes to me for help.

Howdo you show politeness?

I don’t think anyone can show politeness. It just reflects in one’s behavior.

Do you think politeness is important?

Yes, politeness is very important. Politeness begets politeness. If we are polite to others, only then we can expect politeness from them.

Inyour opinion, why is it important to show respect to others?

It is important to show respect to others, because it reflects our own nature. If you will respect others only then you will get respect from others. If you will disrespect others, no one will care for you.

Canyou give me some other examples of how people show politeness in your country?

People show politeness in many ways. Giving an elderly person your seat in the bus is one method of showing politeness. Standing up when the teacher comes in the class is another method of showing politeness. Stopping your car to let the pedestrian cross the road is also a way of showing politeness. Helping an elderly person cross the road is also a way of showing politeness.

Are there any differences between urban and rural people concerning politeness?Urban people are living a faster life. They have no time for showing politeness. On the other hand, life in the villages is People help each other, and spend time with each other. So it can be said that rural people are more polite.

Do young people show politeness in the same way as old people?

Old and young people to show politeness in different ways. Old people can show politeness by not being mad at children when they’re playing and making noise. Young people can show politeness by giving the elderly their seat or by just sitting and talking to them

Do young and old people have the same attitude towards politeness?

I think the attitude of both is the same, but the way of showing politeness is different

Arepeople more polite with non-family members than they are with their parents? Yes, people are a lot more polite with nonfamily members, because they take their family members for granted and expect that they would not mind even if they are not very polite with them

Do you think there have been any changes in recent decades to the way people showpoliteness to others?

As life has become faster, politeness has slipped away from people’s minds. They are so busy in their own life that they hardly find time to show politeness.

(Similar to above) Are people today as polite as people were in the past?Same as above)

Cross-Cultural Relations

Do you think there are any differences between politeness in your country and in the West?

I don’t think politeness has anything to do with the country one comes from. There are polite and impolite people in every country.

(Similarto above) Do you think politeness is different in different countries and parts of the world?

(Same as above)

Howcan one evaluate other cultures?

One can evaluate other cultures by talking to the people, and sharing views with them.

What do you think might happen if the nations of the whole world showed respect to other nations?

If the nations of the whole world showed respect to other nations, then life would become very harmonious and beautiful.

Teaching Politeness to Children

Howcan parents (or school teachers) teach children to be polite?

The best way to teach children politeness would be to lead by example. If parents and teachers are polite children automatically become polite.

Politeness in Your Country (in your culture)

Ingeneral, what is “politeness”?

Politeness is talking softly with everyone; politeness is sitting with the elderly and giving them company; politeness is helping a blind man cross the road; politeness is greeting others with a happy face; politeness is in small good gestures that make others happy.

Why do people show politeness towards others? (= What is the purpose of politeness?)

The purpose of politeness is to give a meaning to your life, and to make this world a happy place.

Onwhat occasions do people need to be (especially) polite?

I think we should not find occasions to be especially polite. We should be polite all the time.

What are some ways that people in your country show politeness towards others?(answered above)

Do you think politeness is something natural (innate to humans) or is it learned behaviour?

Politeness is a learned behavior. When children see other people polite, they also become polite by nature.

What are the differences between politeness and impoliteness?(About politeness, I have talked of above)

Impoliteness is thinking too high of oneself and not respecting the life of another person. And impolite person is generally not liked by anyone.

(Similarto above) What are the differences between polite behaviour and impolite behaviour?

(Same as above)

(Similarto above) How do you (or, how do people) judge what is polite and what isn’t polite?
Why do we show different levels of politeness to different people or in different situations?

We show different levels of politeness to different people, because we have different feelings for them. For example, if we don’t like somebody we can just greet him with a smile to show politeness, but if we like somebody, we will greet him with a smile and also hug and kiss the person to show our politeness.

What do you think are the differences between a polite person and a friendly person? A friendly person is always polite, but a polite person may not always be friendly. For example, one can be polite to complete strangers even without being friends with

(Possiblythe above question is worded this way) Is being friendly the same as being polite?

(Same as above)

Do you think it’s possible to show politeness and friendliness at the same time?

Yes, at times it is possible to social politeness and friendliness at the same time. For example, one may just help another person out of politeness, and then start a friendly talk with him.

Do you think it’s possible to be too (= overly, excessively) polite?

It is possible to be too polite, but I personally think it would look very artificial.

Teaching Children about Politeness

Howcan parents teach their children to be polite?

Parents can teach their children to be polite, by setting an example in front of them. If parents are polite, children automatically learn politeness.

(Similar to above) How do parents in your country teach their children to be polite?(Same as above)

Canyou think of any examples when young children are not very polite?

Children are not polite when they go to the park and don’t offer their swing to the other children when their turn comes. Children are not polite, when they make too much noise and disturb people of the neighborhood. Children I’m not polite when they go to somebody’s house and mess things up.

Do you think there is a certain age when children should be expected to be polite? No, I don’t think Children should be taught politeness and should learn to be polite from a very young age.

Inyour opinion, how should (or, how can) parents correct their children when the children are impolite?

When children are impolite, pigeons should ask them to say sorry. They should also apologize to the other person. In this way children will not do that mistake again.

Do young children learn about politeness at school?

There are no special classes on politeness, but children do learn politeness by observing their teachers and other students.

Public Awareness of Politeness

Do you think that everyone in society is aware of what is and isn’t polite behaviour?

More people are aware of polite and impolite behavior.

Sometimesthere are occasions when the government (or some other authority) wants to remind people about being polite. Can you think of any examples of that? Sometimes, the government has to appeal to the people to be patient and This happens especially on festivals, when people drink and forget what it is right or wrong.

Whatmethods can (or does) the government use to remind people about some aspect of politeness?

The government takes the help of media such as TV or radio to aware people.

Truthfulness and Politeness

Do you always tell the truth to people?

No, not always! Sometimes a white light also has to be spoken. For example, recently my six-year-old niece drew a flower, which was not very nice, but I told her that it was very beautiful because I didn’t want to hurt her feelings.

(Similarto above) Do you think people are (or should be) honest all the time when they speak to others?

Yes, people should be honest when they speak to each other. But sometimes, it is okay to speak a white lie, if the situation demands it.

Do you think telling lies is impolite?

No, not always! White lies are not impolite. A doctor might have to tell his patient of terminal stage of cancer that he will get well very soon, even if it is not correct.

Are there any times when it might be polite to tell a lie?(same as above)

Whichdo you think is better, to always show your feelings or to sometimes conceal your feelings?

It is always better to be able to conceal ones feelings, especially if it would hurt the other person to know your true feelings.

(Similarto above) Which do you think is better, to always show your real thoughts or to sometimes conceal your thoughts?

(Same as above)

Onthe question of expressing what one really thinks (or feels), do you think males and females are the same?

I think there are no gender differences, as far as hiding one’s feelings are concerned. Some men are good at hiding their feelings, and some women are capable of hiding their feelings. So it is not a question of gender.

When(or, in what situations) do you think it is acceptable to express what one really thinks?

When some important discussion or debate is going on, you have to be clear which side you are on.

Do you think pretending to smile is polite?

Yes, at times pretending to smile is polite, especially when you do not want the other person to feel hurt by knowing that you are sad

8. A tall building

Describe a tall building in your hometown you like or dislike

Whereit is
Whatit is used for
Whatit looks like
Explainwhy you like or dislike it

Ibelong to Phagwara, and there are no tall buildings in my
HereI would like to talk about the Qutub Minar, which is in the Mehrauli area of
Itis used as a tourist attraction
Itlooks very
Itis 73 metres in height or 240 feet tall
Thebuilding is tapering towards the
Thebase has a diameter of 47 feet and the top has a diameter of 9
Itis the tallest brick minaret in the
Insidethe tower there is a circular staircase with 379 steps leading to the
QutubMinar was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1200 AD
Hisson in law Iltutmish added 3 storeys in
Thetop storey was damaged by lightening in 1369 and was restored by Feroz Shah Tuglak
Ivisited the Qutub Minar when I was in 10^th.
Ireally disliked the fact that we could only see the Qutub Minar from Otherwise I like the building a lot.
Wewere told that the public access to the staircase had been banned as there was some accident in 1981 in which 45 people including children were
Ourschool organised a tour to
Wewere 40 students and 4
Itwas a five-day
Wevisited many places in and around
Wevisited the Red Fort, Jantar Mantar and India
Wedid boating at the India
Therewas an International trade fair going
Ourteachers took us there
Weenjoyed a

Cue Card 8: follow-up questions

Whatkinds of buildings are popular in India now?
1. Indiais a diverse All types of buildings are popular in India. It depends on geographical area and also on the density of population. In metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi, there are tall buildings to accommodate more people, but smaller towns and cities have buildings, which spread horizontally and not vertically.
2. In areas with heavy rainfall, there are sloped roofs, whereas in other areasthere are flat So, it is difficult to generalize what types of buildings are popular in India now.

Compareold buildings and modern Which do people prefer to live in?
1. Old buildings were more spacious, but modern buildings are more compact.Old buildings spread horizontally, but modern buildings spread vertically. Old buildings mostly used locally available materials, but modern buildings use materials from around the Old buildings had visible wiring and pipelines, but modern buildings have concealed wiring and water pipes.
2. Today people prefer to live in modern buildings.Modern buildings are more comfortable and easy to

Howdo people in India feel about old buildings?
1. People have different feelings about old buildings.Some people think that these should be demolished and new ones should be made instead. However, other feel that we should preserve these old buildings

Doold people and young people in India have the same attitudes towards old building?
1. Old people and young people do not have the same attitude towards old Old people are emotionally attached to old buildings, and so they want to preserve them and restore them. However, young people like the modern buildings instead because they think that old buildings can be hazardous to live in.

Isit important to preserve old buildings? (Why?)
1. Yes,it is important to preserve some old buildings, especially those which have some historical importance and can attract tourism. However those buildings, which are in a very dilapidated state should be demolished and new ones built

Whataspect of culture do old buildings reflect?
1. Old buildings reflect how people lived in the past. Most old houses were very The bathrooms were in one corner. Most houses had a central courtyard around which there used to be bedrooms.

Do you think it’s worth the money to preserve old buildings?
1. Ido not think it is a waste of money to preserve those old buildings, which have some historical significance and can earn revenue in the form of tourist Some old buildings can be put to good use. For example, the Sainik School of Kapurthala was once the home of maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Howhave buildings changed in the past few years?

Buildings have changed a lot in the past few years. Today we have morehigh-rise buildings. Materials used in the buildings are also imported from all over the world. Buildings today focus more on utility than beauty. People are using prefabricated materials for doors and windows and so less of wood is Today’s buildings are more energy-efficient.

Areexpensive buildings a waste of money?
1. It depends. If too much money is spent to improve the façade of the building,then it is a waste of money. But, if money is spent to make the building more energy efficient and utilitarian, then it is certainly not a waste of

Isit important to design a building
1. Yes, it is very important to design a building. It would be very unwise to juststart constructing without a plan. The lighting, ventilation, security and many other things have to be A well designed building has proper space management and saves a lot of hassle later on.

Cannatural calamities affect people living in tall buildings?
1. Yes, That is why very tall buildings need highly skilled architects and engineers. Today’s architects can design skyscrapers which can bear the brunt of such natural calamities.

Whathas been the biggest change in your hometown in the last few years?
1. Thebiggest change has been the building of two flyovers, which have greatly improved the traffic

Important points which can also be incorporated in writing tasks

Advantages of tall buildings/skyscrapers

Accommodatelarge number of people, which is important as the population is burgeoning and land is getting
Tallbuildings allow green spaces for parks, which are the lungs of the
Water supply, central heating and cooling, waste disposal etc. are more efficient when done insmall
Tallbuildings are more attractive
Theyare more affordable

Disadvantages

Highlyskilled architects and engineers are needed, so the cost goes If the tall buildings is just 4-5 storeys then cost is less, but for constructing skyscrapers a lot of budget is needed.
Tallbuildings have to be strong enough to bear the wind
Riskyin case of natural calamities such as
Theycan block the view and sunshine of the neighbouring buildings

Advantages of horizontal cities

People who live in horizontal cities can enjoy a better quality of life. The population of thesecities is small, and residents have more opportunities to interact with their neighbours, creating a community with strong
More over the competition is not so intensive than that of vertical cities. Therefore, horizontalcities have a better quality of
People living in houses with one or two floors feel a sense of spaciousness as they have abroad view of the Ventilation system is also much better in the small buildings compared to tall buildings.
In addition, the small house is safe in case of risks, which are caused by natural calamitiessuch as

Modernization of Buildings

Advantages of modernizing:

Tomeet the needs of the growing population
Someold buildings may be a threat to life
Modernmaterials are more practical
Energyefficient houses

Disadvantages of modernizing:

Lossof architectural diversity:
Lossof tourism:

Modernization of cities Advantages of modernizing:

Tomeet the needs of the growing population
Modernmaterial are more practical
Energyefficient houses
Expandingroad system
Toexpand trade

Disadvantages of modernization

Lossof architectural diversity
Lossof tourism

Historic Buildings

Advantages of destroying historic buildings

Tomeet the needs of the growing population
Willnot be a threat to life
Road systems are being expandedAdvantages of not destroying
Servesa very good purpose
Attracttourists and good revenue

9. An Advertisement

Ad you saw or read recently

Whenand where you saw it
Whatwas the advertisement about?
Explainhow you felt about it

Advertisementsare ubiquitous
Ihave seen many ads in my life but the ad I am going to talk about here is of Nokia N8
Isaw this ad on Star News Channel
PriyankaChopra is the brand ambassador for this
Iwant to buy it because it’s a very attractive and beautiful phone and has many new features and
Ithas a fully touch screen
Itis available in black, white and silver
Ithas a 12 megapixel camera
Itis 3 G enabled
Ithas a qwerty key
Ithas many other applications such as video player, MP3 player
Italso has latest mobile games
Ithas a calculator, alarm, timer, FM radio, calendar and internet
Itsmemory is 8 GB
Ithas a wi-fi facility
Ithas a navigation system
Sheis the leading Bollywood star
Sheis also my favourite
Ihave seen all her
Shealso anchored the TV show – Khatron Ke Khilari
Iwatched this show because of
Shehas a versatile
Shefits into every
Sowhen she endorses a product, people really want to buy
Afterseeing this ad I really wish to buy this
Butit is out of the range of my pocket
Ihave started saving money for
Itis for 24,000

An advertisement you like

Adsare ubiquitous
Adsare all around us on TV, radio, Internet and so
HereI would like to talk about my favorite
Itis of a car, the Nano
Itis manufactured by Tata
Thereare numerous reasons why I like this
Firstly,I like the slogan of this
Itis – Khushion ki Chabi- which means – the key to happiness
Secondly,the ad is shot in Mumbai and it is a very fascinating city of my
Itis picturised in front of the Taj Hotel, which is very famous all around my
Thewhole ad is very
Almost100 people are there in the ad and all of them are youngsters wearing fashionable

Themain reason why I like this ad is that the theme and story they create in this ad is just
Thereis a magician in this ad who changes all the characters from what they are into new personalities
Hetransforms a girl into a bold and dynamic
Inthis ad the whole atmosphere is of celebration and all are singing and dancing in the
Themost attractive thing about this ad is the background
Inthis ad all the versions off this car are
Thecar is available in many colors, like yellow, white, black, blue and so
Afterwatching this ad I have planned to buy this
Thecar is not very expensive
Iwould buy the deluxe version of this car in white color
Iam saving my pocket money so that I can buy this one very soon
Thiscar would be very useful for me and my family

Cue Card 9: Follow-up questions

Ingeneral, what are the pros and cons of advertising?

There are many pros and cons of advertising. The advantages are that ads tell us about the new products. They also tell us about the working of these products. Ads also touch social issues like female foeticide and pulse polio. Ads help businessmen to sell their products, which improves the overall economy of a country.

The cons are that sometimes ads make false claims and the products are not that good otherwise. Secondly, the cost of promoting the product is added to the cost of the product which makes things costly. Thirdly, ads target children who are vulnerable and are easily influenced by ads. They pester their parents to buy the products, which upsets the family budget. Children also copy the stunts shown in the ads and can injure themselves. Finally, ads create a feeling of inadequacy among people by bombarding them with newer products every day. In order to buy these products people have become workaholics. Sometimes the young people resort to unethical means to buy these products.

Do you think there’s too much advertising in our daily lives?

Yes, there is too much advertising in our daily lives. In fact advertising has become an industry. It has become the backbone of many economies of the world. Ads are ubiquitous nowadays. We see ads on TV, newspapers, hoardings and flyers. We also get ads through the radio, cell phone and the Internet.

Inwhat ways do advertisements influence people?

Ads influence people in both good and bad ways. On the positive side ads tell us about the new products. They also tell us about the working of these products. Ads also touch social issues like female foeticide and pulse polio. Ads help businessmen to sell their products, which improves the overall economy of a country.

The negative influences are that sometimes ads make false claims and the products are not that good otherwise. Secondly, the cost of promoting the product is added to the cost of the product which makes things costly. Thirdly, ads target children who are vulnerable and are easily influenced by ads. They pester their parents to buy the products, which upsets the family budget. Children also copy the stunts shown in the ads and can injure themselves. Finally, ads create a feeling of inadequacy among people by bombarding them with newer products every day. In order to buy these products people have become workaholics. Sometimes the young people resort to unethical means to buy these products.

Do you think children are influenced by advertising in the same way that adults are?

No, certainly not. Children are vulnerable and are easily influenced by ads. They pester their parents to buy the products, which upsets the family budget. Children also copy the stunts shown in the ads and can injure themselves. On the other hand adults are mature and are not easily swayed by the ads. Before making a purchase they discuss with friends and family and do not just rush to buy the product after seeing the advert.

Whatare the main ways that advertising reaches people?

Advertisements reach people through TV, newspapers, hoardings and flyers. We also get ads through the radio, cell phone and the Internet.

What are the different forms of advertising that we have in society today?

We have ads on TV, newspapers, hoardings and flyers. We also get ads through the radio, cell phone and the Internet.

Howdo advertisements differ between the different forms of media?

TV ads are audio visual. They have a better impact than radio ads which are only audio. Newspaper ads target those groups of people who read those newspapers. For example, local ads come on the local newspapers. Ads related to jobs come in newspapers such as Employment News. Magazines also target specific groups of people. For example, sports magazines have ads related to sports goods.

Howare advertisements on TV different to those in magazines or on the radio?

TV ads are audio visual. They have a better impact than radio ads which are only audio. Magazines also target specific groups of people. For example, sports magazines have ads related to sports goods.

Whichof those do you think is the most effective means of advertising?

TV is the most effective means of advertising because it is an audio visual medium. TV is the most pervasive medium nowadays. It has reached every household.

Whatis the purpose of advertising?

The purpose of advertising is to sell products or services. Ads also touch social issues like female foeticide and pulse polio. Ads help businessmen to sell their products, which improves the overall economy of a country.

Howdo advertisements achieve this purpose?

Ads achieve this purpose by using celebrities. For example, when Priyanka Chopra says a face cream is good, people rush to buy that cream. Ads also keep bombarding people repeatedly about new products. Ads also offer discounts on products to lure people into buying those products. Ads also offer schemes such as free gifts with their products.

Do you think most advertisements achieve their purpose? (Why? / Why not)

Yes, most ads achieve their purpose because ads repeatedly show these products and people cannot resist buying them. Moreover, people blindly follow those celebrities who endorse these products.

Howare these advertisements effective?

These ads are effective because they repeatedly show these products and people cannot resist buying them. Moreover, people blindly follow those celebrities who endorse these products.

Whatmakes a “good” advertisement?

The celebrities used to endorse products, the jingles used in the ads, the humour used in the ads and the repeated telecast makes a good ad.

Ingeneral, what makes an advertisement effective?

The celebrities used to endorse products, the jingles used in the ads, the humour used in the ads and the repeated telecast make an ad effective.

Whatmakes an advertisement attractive to people?

The celebrities used to endorse products, the jingles used in the ads, the humour used in the ads and the repeated telecast make an ad attractive to people.

Whatwould happen if a product was not advertised?

The product would not get a good sale. Even if the product is good, people need to be told that such a product is there in the market. Sometimes ads tell about the working of the product which is also helpful for the people.

If a businessman does not advertise, then the product would need a long time to become popular through word-of-mouth. If a company needs mega-sales then ads are a must.

Do you think the contents of advertisements are good?

Generally, the contents are good. Today, we belong to an era of cut-throat competition and the ads making false claims cannot survive for long. However, some ads show stunts which mislead children and so are not good. For example the ad of Thumbs Up is not good for children.

Do you think there should be any controls put on advertising?

Yes, definitely. The ads showing stunts should be banned. Ads of liquor and tobacco should be banned. Ads making false claims should also be banned.

Arethere any problems concerning advertising in your country?

Yes, there are some ads showing stunts which put bad impact on children.

Do you think advertising should strictly give truthful information about the products being advertised?

Yes, I think so because if ads make false claims then people would feel cheated and would lose their confidence in ads.

Who controls advertising in your country?The government controls ads in my

Do you think the government should have stricter control over advertising?

Yes, definitely. The ads showing stunts should be banned. Ads of liquor and tobacco should be banned. Ads making false claims should also be banned.

Dochildren pay attention to advertisements?

Yes, children pay attention to ads because ads today are very colourful, entertaining and so attract children.

What do you think is the impact of advertising on children?

Children are vulnerable and are easily influenced by ads. They pester their parents to buy the products, which upsets the family budget. Children also copy the stunts shown in the ads and can injure themselves.

Do you think advertising a certain product can ever have negative effects?

Yes, if and ad makes false claims then it can have negative impact. For example, the ad of AXE perfume shows that the boy who uses the perfume is followed by girls but recently, I read in the paper that someone has sued the company as the person who used this perfume for seven years failed to attract even a single girl.

Whatabout adverting tobacco and alcohol – do you think these products should be advertised at all (or regulated)?

Definitely not! These products are bad for health and should never be advertised.

Whatare some (famous) brands names that are especially popular with young people (or, teenagers)?

Many brands are popular such as Reebok’s, Nike, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger etc.

Why do you think young people are attracted to some particular brands?

Young people are attracted to these brands because they are endorsed by famous celebs and young people consider them as status symbol. Secondly, some of these brands are very durable and are good value for money.

In what ways are some advertisements aimed especially at young people (or, teenagers)?Some ads are aimed especially at the young people by using celebrities to promote For example, John Abrahim promotes an oil-free face wash for men. Young people follow such celebs and rush to buy these products. Bikes are promoted by hot celebs such as Salman Khan and MS Dhoni to attract the youth.

Do you think the brand of a product is important?

Yes it is important at least for me. I would rather buy one Levis Jeans a year than 5 non branded ones. I am very brand conscious. It is a status symbol for me.

Forthe producer (the company that makes a product), what are the advantages of having a well-known brand name?

A well known brand name does not require any effort to sell.

Do you think the products with the less well-known brands are competitive with the well- known brands?

There are many people who cannot afford the well-known brands. In fact in a country like India with a population of 1.2 crores, the population of those people is higher. So those lesser known brands also have their own share of sales.

Arewell-known brand name products cheaper or more expensive than products that have no brand name (or whose brand name is not well known)? (Why?)

Well known brands are definitely more expensive.

Do you think too much money is spent advertising brand name products?

Yes, I think so. These brands use celebs who take exorbitant amount for these ads. However, now these brands are so popular that they do not need any advertising.

What do you think would be the result if less money were spent on this advertising? *The prices of these brands could come down if less money were spent on these ads

Isthere much advertising on the internet? Yes, there is too much advertising on the

Why do many websites have advertisements?Websites have ads to make money out of their

What do you think of these advertisements?

I think they are pretty good. But, they have a limited audience.

Points for related essays

Advantages of advertisements:

There are many advantages of advertisements.

Firstly ads tell us about new products. Ads also tell us how to use these products. If there is no electronic and print advertising many new products would not be bought. So, in this way ads help the manufacturers and consumers both.

Secondly, ads also educate people about non commercial issues like AIDS, deforestation, and family planning. Advertising is a powerful medium and can reach out to the remote corners of the country. Finally, the advertising industry provides jobs to thousands of people.

Disadvantages of advertisements:

On the other hand, there are some disadvantages also. Some people, especially kids can be easily attracted by the false claims made by the ad companies.

Secondly, ads create false needs i.e. promote consumerism. We end up buying and piling up things in the house, we do not need.

Another disadvantage is that ads are unwanted intruders. Just when a TV programme is going on, there is a commercial break. Telemarketing is another example. It is very disturbing. Just when you are doing some important work, you get a phone call to tell about a product or insurance plan, some surveys also claim that there is an increase in consumption of alcohol and cigarettes after viewing such ads.

More points for essays – Advertising industry is worth million of dollars across the world. Points against:

Levelof ad too much- ubiquitousàstreets àBuses àTV àE-mail

Tyrannyof choice or choice Research has shown that people are less happy now than 30 years ago with less choice. Disappointments after buying things as some ads make false claims. Shoppers guilty of not choosing wisely.
Ads can’t be ignored because they use underhand methods like attention grabbingwords and provocative pictures. Some ads are hidden in what seems like pieces of art or public
Some ads make people feel inferior ( a feeling of inadequacy) if they don’t have theproduct g. Amitabh Bachan in the ad of parker pen.
Adsdon’t have the good of society in mind only profit g. fast food ads.
Smallcompanies can’t compete with big ads and so lose
Increase the cost of product as all the money spent on hiring celebs to endorseproducts goes into the cost of the
Adstarget vulnerable children who pester their parents into buying those
Some ads show stunts which may be followed by children and cause injury. For e.g.,the ad of Thumbs-Up.

SHOPAHOLISM

Whatis shopaholism?

Ans: Shopaholism is uncontrolled shopping in order to feel better about oneself.

Shopaholics usually come back with bags and bags of items most of which will never be used.

Cananything be done to solve the problem of shopaholism?

Ans: Many things could be done. The onus is on the person himself

Always pay in cash. Never take your credit card. The best thing would be to destroy the credit card altogether.

Make a shopping list before you go and stick to it. Work out a monthly budget.

Avoid ordering goods from catalogues and don’t watch shopping channels on TV.

Consumerism

Advantages of Consumerism Consumerism possesses many benefits.

There is a greater level of employment as a result of consumerism, since industry depends on a strong labour force, made up of workers who produce a wide range of goods. Mass production = mass employment

It provides consumers with greater choice, which can only be beneficial.

Mass production means the prices of things come down which benefits the consumer. Another benefit is that consumerism increases spending and boosts a country’s economy. Moreover it can increase its status in the world.

Disadvantages of Consumerism

There are however negative aspects to consumerism.

It can create a throw-away society. This has a negative impact because it can spoil the environment. For instance, it can create huge amount of waste which has to be disposed off through the use if landfill sites.

Other problems include issues such as air and water pollution. This occurs as a result of bye products of consumerism being released and absorbed.

Consumerism also makes people spendthrifts. They waste their energy and money in buying trivial things.

Furthermore, such attitude of higher spending generates vigour in people to earn more money. They become workaholics. Cant strike a balance between work and leisure or family and so it leads to stress.

This leads to an adoption of unethical practices. People want to buy things and they can’t afford them the right way they may do petty crime – chain snatching, pick-pocketing, shop- lifting etc.

10. A Website

Website you visit often

Whenyou found it
Whatit is about
Howoften you visit it
Whyyou like it

Oneof my hobbies is surfing the net and I have visited many
Oneuseful website is com.
Myfriend told me about this
Itis educational, family friendly, safe for kids and adults and above all it is very easy to
Icheck my e-mail regularly on com. My e-mail ID is kiran@yahoo.com
Ialso have yahoo messenger which helps me to chat online with my friends and relatives who also have this
SometimesI play games
Myfavourite game is Word
Itis a vocabulary building
Ihave learnt many new words through
Yahooanswers is a forum on this site where you can ask any question and you will get replies from all over the
Yahoomaps is a link on this site through which you can locate any place of the
Thereis also an astrology link on this
Youcan do a lot of online shopping at
Youcan search for jobs at yahoo You can read the latest news and the latest advertisements.
Thereis something for everyone on this I think this is a complete site in itself.

Cue Card 10: Follow-up questions

Whatare the benefits of the Internet?

There are many benefits of the Internet. Internet has revolutionised each and every field of life. Today we can video chat with anyone across the world, do shopping from any corner of the world and study from any college or university of the world.

Shouldthe Internet use be compulsory for all students? Why?

The Internet is a powerful tool for the students today. However, I don’t think its use should be made compulsory. If its use is made compulsory, the students of poor strata may be burdened with the cost of computers and the Internet connection.

Canelderly people benefit from using the Internet, as well?

Of course, the elderly can be benefited the most. They can stay connected with their children and grandchildren all the time. The elderly have a lot of time at their hands, so they can pass their time by surfing the net and playing games online. They do not need to go anywhere for small requirements. They can order anything sitting at home. They can consult any doctor anywhere in the world by showing their digital scan and X-Ray reports.

Comparedto several decades ago, do you think the Internet has changed people’s lives?

The Internet has totally transformed people’s lives. Life without the Internet now seems incomplete. It appears as if one is cut-off from the world and life has come to a standstill. It has made many things easy, but at the same time increased our dependence on such technology.

Whatimpact has the Internet had on modern people’s lives?

The Internet has taken over modern people’s lives. Every thing they do is dependent on their Internet connectivity. In many ways the Internet is like power in their hands, but in some ways the effects are negative. Face to face communication has taken a back seat. People are well connected online but otherwise are leading isolated lives.

Whatare the pros and cons of children using the Internet?

When children use the Internet, it is very important to see what they are surfing and how much time they are spending on the Internet. It is very easy to enter sites with obscene content, which can be very detrimental for children. The Internet can be a very powerful educational tool for children, but as they are immature to know what is good or bad for them, so they need to be supervised when they are online.

Howdo you think children could be encouraged to (or, taught to) use the Internet in positive ways?

First of all, parents should themselves set an example by surfing the net in positive way and not opening vulgar content on their computers. Then they should monitor what their children use the net for. Teachers can also play a role in making children aware of the harmful effects of the wrong use of the Internet. They should be told that if they will use the Internet in any wrong way then they can be caught by cybercrime cell and the punishments are severe. Parents can also block some sites, which they don’t want their children to land upon even accidentally.

Do you think online education is good?

Definitely online education is a boon for those who are in remote areas and cannot attend college or university. It is also good for working people, as it allows them to study at their convenient time. Those who are handicapped can also benefit a lot by online education. Students can also get education from the best universities of the world by sitting in their home country. However, actually attending a college or university has an edge over online education. The interaction with the teachers and other fellow students has an advantage, which can never be matched by any online lectures. Practical work is difficult to grasp online. Extracurricular activities in the colleges and universities go a long way in the holistic development of students. They develop global network in universities.

Do you think the Internet (or, computers) will ever replace teachers?

The Internet can never completely replace teachers. A computer can tell you whether you are wrong or right, but only a teacher can tell you where you went wrong. Teachers keep the students focused on study. Today teachers have raised their level of teaching by using the Internet to keep themselves updated with the latest academic knowledge. They then devise their own innovative methods to teach in even better ways.

Inwhat ways is the Internet used for entertainment?

The Internet is a powerful tool for entertainment. We can listen songs, download movies and other videos and also stream movies and see them online. We can join a group of other people with similar interests and interact with them.

Dodifferent age groups use it for entertainment in different ways?

Yes, different age groups use the Internet for different purposes. Online shopping has become very popular among the young generation. The elderly mainly use it for connecting to their children and grandchildren, who are living away because of any reasons such as for jobs.

Whatis the effect of Internet on communication between people?

The Internet has connected people and the fact cannot be denied that the young generation of today has the widest network of friends than ever before in the history of mankind, but face-to- face communication has suffered. On the whole, people are connected 24/7. Mothers are not worried is their children are away, as they can call and ask of their wellbeing all the time.

What do you think about Internet access in libraries?

Internet access is a must in libraries these days. Libraries with traditional books have their own importance, but the Internet access helps students prepare assignments and access those books, which are not available in the physical form.

Do you think the Internet is slowly taking over the libraries?

As the Internet has made possible, virtual libraries, which means libraries without walls, so some people fear that it is taking over the libraries. However, I believe that libraries have an aura, an ambience, which attracts people to go there. There is an atmosphere there, which promotes reading, and so the Internet can never take over libraries completely.

Doesit mean in the future libraries will disappear?

Libraries have their own importance and will never disappear completely.

Whyis the Internet useful for global economy?

Internet connects the globe. So, global economy is dependent on the Internet. Every second’s happenings can be uploaded from the Internet. In fact, the Internet is the backbone of anything we call global. It is the IT revolution, which has brought about the terms such as global economy. Before the coming of the Internet, even neighbouring countries were not affected by each other’s economy.

11. A small business

Describe a small business that you would like to open, (or, start or run or own or have) if you had the chance

Whatis the business
Howyou came to know about it
Whenwill you open it
Howwill you prepare for it

–

Iam not sure whether I would do any business in my life because it requires great courage to take the risk of being an
But,if I had the chance, I would like to open a beauty
Myaunt is running one and is doing
Shedid not do much initial investment but added things as her clients
Iwould follow her footsteps because I would get some know-how from
Beautyis a growing
Goodlooks have become very important in today’s competitive
Mymother tells me that earlier a beauty parlour was frequented only my
But,today men and women both can be seen in these salons in equal
IfI start off well, I would add some exercise machines also because I feel that beauty is not just about good looks; a good body is also needed for overall
Obesepeople cannot look good by adding layers of
Iwould also hire good dieticians for my salon, to guide my customers about good and healthy
Ithas been well said that – ‘You are what you eat’.
Myclients would stick with me if I provide them all these
Iknow that I will have to innovative and provide good value for money if I want my business to run
Myaunt started two years ago and her client base has grown 10 She has expanded and now she also trains budding beauticians.
IfI do this business, I would like to be as successful as she

Cue Card 11: Follow Up Questions

Whatare the advantages and disadvantages of a family business?

Advantages

It keeps the family together. Family members understand each other better. Maximum efficiency is ensured. They are more committed than outsiders.

Most family members have solid informal internal training. This is because such businesses are usually passed from grandparents to children and grandchildren.

Disadvantages

Misunderstandings at home could also be brought to the office and the family expenses could be deducted from the business.

Some of the family members might become too comfortable knowing that their own family is working, and as a result there may not be proper planning and budgeting which may result in misunderstandings later on.

Family businesses also tend to appoint family members even if they lack training or experience. Outsiders might have ideas and skills that can be useful to the family business but their ideas won’t be incorporated because they are outsiders.

There can be conflicts among the family members, which may result in total collapse of the business at times.

Aremen and women equally good at running a business?

There are no gender differences nowadays. It is a matter of personal aptitude. As more and more girls are going into management courses, they are successfully entering the world of business. We have many examples, such as Kiran Majumdar, who is the CEO of Biocon company.

Ismarket research important for export business?

Yes, definitely. Market research is important for any business and not just for export business. If China exports those products which are not in demand, then it will be out of business very soon. Even if we talk about small scale business, without adequate market research nothing will sell properly. For example in a poor country, branded showrooms will not survive.

Is it important to be competitive and why?

Yes, it is very important to be competitive nowadays. We belong to an era of competition. Today, we are not competing with the person next-door or in the same town or country. We are competing with the people of a global village.

Inbusiness, do companies need to be competitive?

Yes, definitely. Business is all about competition. If you don’t compete how can you run a business? You have to sell your products and for that you have to compete with your rivals. Otherwise they will succeed and you will lose.

Shouldcompanies promote competition and why?

Yes, surely. Companies should promote competition because if they don’t compete how can they run a business? They have to sell their products and for that they have to compete with their rivals. Otherwise they will fail and others will succeed. However, they should promote healthy competition and should not use unethical means to compete.

Whatchallenges and difficulties people face when they try to have a successful small business?

They have to do proper market research and see if there is demand of their product or service. They also have to see if they will be getting competition from the international sector. For example, a bicycle manufacturer from India may not be able to compete with the cheaper and better looking bicycles from China. Then there are other formalities like government approvals etc.

Whatshould be the governments’ role in how small businesses are run?

Government should promote small businesses by providing subsidies to budding entrepreneurs. This way unemployment will be reduced. It should do careful and fair

evaluation of the business plan of the person and help in all the ways it can. Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Make in India’ Campaign is a step in this direction.

Whatare the advantages and disadvantages of small businesses compared to large companies? (Difference between big companies and small companies?)

There are many differences between big and small companies. To begin with, big companies offer bigger pay packages than small companies. Secondly, these companies give many perks and bonuses from time to time. These companies give benefits like health insurance and travel allowance. Another big advantage of big companies is that it is a status symbol to work in these companies. Furthermore, they provide opportunities to travel overseas. Moreover, in a big company hands on training is provided to all new workers.

On the other hand, in a small company, everybody knows everybody. You are not part of a big crowd as in a big company. If you do some good work, you are applauded for it.

If you open your own small business, you are your own boss. You decide your paycheck. The more you work, the more you earn. The disadvantage is that there is a lot of risk and in case you don’t do well, you can suffer a heavy financial loss.

Howcan businesses benefit the community in which they are located?

Businesses can benefit in many ways. They can provide scope for many supporting businesses to flourish. For example, restaurants, hotels, and many more.

Whatkinds of small businesses are most popular?

All types of small businesses are popular. My home town is the hub of small scale industry, such as motor parts. Jalandhar is famous for sports goods. Ludhiana is known as the Manchester of India because of small scale industry, especially the hosiery industry.

Why do some people open their own business?

Some people open their own business because they want to be their own boss. They know they can grow big that way.

Whatqualities does a small business owner need to have?

He should have the competitive spirit. Should have the ability to take risks. He should be hard working and know how to get work from his employees.

Arethere many big companies in your country?

Yes, there are. India is a fast developing country. There are many Indian companies, which are very big such as Tata, Mahindra, Godrej, Reliance, Videocon, Onida and so on. There are also many multinational giants which have opened branches in India, such as Samsung, LG, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and so on.

Howcan a small company grow big?

Small companies can do so in many ways. They can work hard, employ skilled workers, focus on quality and employ good marketing strategies.

Shouldbig companies donate more to charities?

Yes, they should. I believe that anyone who has enough should help the needy on humanitarian grounds. Many big companies help the NGOs and NPOs. This is a win-win situation for both. When they get publicity for their charity work, they are getting advertisement for free.

Shouldbig companies be punished more seriously if they break the law?

No, they should not. Law should be the same for all – big as well as small companies. Usually, big companies have big connections. So, they try to get away with their wrong doings. This also should not happen. Punishment should be equally serious for all law offenders.

Advantages of self-employment

Self-employmentoffers greater freedom than working for a You decide your pay check.
Nowadays,it is easy to set up a Young entrepreneurs are being encouraged by loans from the government.
TheInternet provides a global marketplace

If you do well, you get all the credit, but if you work for someone you are not given any credit ifthey do

Disadvantages of self-employment

However,there are risks to starting a new Self-employed people may face financial difficulties.
Manybusinesses fail to make a There is less stability in self-employment.
Thereare no benefits like pensions, sick pay and holiday
Self-employmentinvolved hard work, long hours and total responsibility

12. An important equipment

An equipment you use at home

Howyou got it (or, who, bought it)?
Whatyou use it for?
Howoften you use it?
andexplain why you think this thing is useful?

Thereare many tools or equipment’s in my house and I use them for different
Thetool I would like to talk about today is the vacuum cleaner that I use to clean the furniture, carpet and other places in my
Iclean my house 1-2 times a week and mostly on days
Cleaningthe whole house and the furniture is very time consuming and
Thevacuum cleaner that I use makes it easy specially cleaning the dust on
Themachine or equipment is very handy and I find it important to keep our house neat &
Our house is just beside the main road and that makes it more prone to dust. Beforepurchasing the vacuum cleaner, it was very tiresome and tough to task for us to clean the
But this has become easier after we started using this The vacuum cleaner is electronic equipment that requires the AC current.
Itis of Euroclean company and is blue in
Itwas for approximately 5,000 rupees
Itdoes dry as well as wet
Ithas different attachments for different
Ithas a very nice attachment, which goes under the bed
Itis very useful for removing spider webs from the walls and
Afterplugging in I turn on the power switch and use the long handle that sucks all the
Iplace the front of the machine towards the dust and it gulps the dust and the dust- filled bags are then emptied in a
Thevacuum cleaner is an important tool for me as it does an important task of our
Iremember, before we had the vacuum cleaner, keeping the house spic and span was a herculean
Mymother had the major brunt of cleaning work and she often suffered backache because of bending to mop the
Because of thevacuum cleaner, everyone takes turns to clean the house and that too

Cue Card 12: Follow Up Questions

How do you think modern technology has changed the way we work (compared to thepast)?

Modern technology has revolutionised the world of work. Today, we can do in minutes, what earlier used to take days. Maintaining ledger books has become a piece of cake. Automated machines are doing repetitive monotonous work and humans are enjoying a much more convenient life.

Do you think that operating equipment at work can ever have some bad effect on the body?

Yes. Operating equipment can have bad effect, if the persons are not trained to handle that equipment. Accidents can happen and people can lose their lives also if machines malfunction.

Do you think it’s important for employees (in-industry) to be trained to use the equipment at work?

Definitely yes. Training employees is very essential. Otherwise it can be very hazardous.

Do you agree that older people have difficulties in using (advanced) modern equipment? How can we help elderly people to use these modern devices?

Older people are not so techno savvy. They find it difficult to learnt the functioning of modern gadgets.

Arethere any disadvantages of using modern equipment too much in the home?

Yes, there are. Young people are so engrossed in these that they forget that they should interact with other family members. People become so dependent on machines like dish washers, washing machines and microwaves that all work comes to a standstill if these things do not work.

13. A wild animal

Describe a time when you were really close to a wild animal

	– – – –	What it looks like Where can you see it What it likes to eat or do Why you like it

	· · · ·	India is a diverse country There are many types of animals found in India There are pet animals, domestic animals and wild animals Here I am going to talk about an animal, which I saw for the first time in Mini zoo at Chandigarh.
	· · ·	I saw it from a distance of eight to ten feet. It is the elephant I like it because even though it is a wild animal, it doesn’t seem so intimidating as the lion or tiger.
	· · · · · · ·	The elephants are the biggest land animals. They are herbivorous and can be identified because of their trunk. The trunk is the projection of their nose and the upper lips. There are two types of elephants, the Indian and the African. African elephants are bigger than their Indian counterparts. They have comparatively larger ears. Among the African elephants both the males and females have tusks whereas, only the males among the Indian elephants have tusks and so they are called tuskers.
	·	The back of the Indian elephants are convex whereas that of the African elephants are concave.
	· · · · · · ·	Indian elephants can be tamed and they are more beautiful. Elephants are gregarious animals and live in herds headed by tuskers. They have a well structured family life. The young ones, called the calf, are looked after by the cow elephants. Their cry is called trumpet. In India, elephants are captured, tamed and used for various purposes. Elephants are among the few animals whose existence is not endangered till now.

Cue Card 13: Follow Up Questions

Besidesthe animal you just spoke about, what other wild animals are there in your country (or, around where you live)?

There are many other wild animals in my country such as tigers, leopards, snakes, camels, deer, giraffes, rhinoceros, lions, hippos, alligators, crocodiles, monkeys etc.

Ingeneral, how do people in your country feel about wild animals?

People have different feelings for wild animals. Some people are scared of them, some worship them, some like them and specially go to the zoos to see them. Some even hunt wild animals for their body parts.

Ingeneral, what is the attitude of people in your country towards wild animals?

People have different attitudes towards wild animals. Some people are scared of them, some worship them, some like them and specially go to the zoos to see them. Some even hunt wild animals for their body parts.

Do you like (all) wild animals? (Why?/Why not?)

Yes, I like all wild animals but from afar. I love to see programmes of wild animals on the Discovery Channel and the National Geographic Channel and I even enjoy watching them in the zoos.

Ingeneral, do you think people like wild animals?

Yes, I think they do. The Discovery Channel and the National Geographic Channel are very popular. People even go to the zoos to see them. Whenever I went to any zoo, I see a huge rush of people there.

Arethere any wild animals that you dislike? Why?

I don’t dislike any wild animal when I see it on TV or in the zoo. But I am sure, I don’t want to be near any wild animal in reality.

Whatabout lions and tigers, do you like them? After all, they sometimes eat people!

Normally lions and tigers are happy eating other animals of the wild like the zebras but only when humans provoke them that they eat them.

Inyour country, are people’s attitudes towards wild animals today the same as people’s attitudes in the past?

Today, the attitude of people towards wild animals is quite different than in the past. Earlier people were afraid of wild animals and used to worship them. They even used to hunt and kill them in great numbers. However, today people are more aware about the importance of animals. They want to conserve them. Some societies such as the SPCA ( Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is taking steps for animal rights.

Dopeople in the rural areas have the same feelings about wild animals as people in the cities?

People in the rural areas are little less aware about the importance of animals. Some rural areas are very near the forests. There we generally see news about some wild animal coming into the village and attacking humans. But this is also because these villages have encroached into the home of these animals.

Do you think (all) wildlife should be protected?

Yes, definitely. All animals are part of an ecological chain. If any link of this chain is broken then we all suffer. Let us take the example of bats. Bats are on the verge of extinction. If we do not conserve them, we will be in danger. Let me explain why. Bats eat insects. If bats die, the number of insects will increase many fold. These insects will eat our crops. So we will have nothing to eat. So it is very important to conserve all animals.

How/whyare some wild animals endangered?

This is because of many reasons. We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals. If they have nowhere to live, they die.

Even our technology is affecting animals. For example, the rays from telephone towers have affected bird life. We hardly see any sparrows nowadays.

We are doing unnecessary experiments which are harming animals. We are hunting animals for meat and their body parts.

So, because of all these wild animals are endangered.

Inyour country, who takes responsibility for protecting wild animals?

The government and some NGOs ( non Government Organisations) such as the SPCA.

Arethere any special organizations in your country that help protect wild animals?

Many special organizations are there such as The Corbett Foundation, The Wildlife Conservation Society, Project Tiger , Ranthambore Foundation

Isthe government in your country doing anything to protect wild animals?

The government of India is doing a lot. There is a special Ministry for Environment and Forests and there is also an Indian Board for wildlife. They take steps to conserve and protect wildlife and also spend money on doing research on them.

(Similarto above) In what ways are wild animals protected in your country?

Do you think it’s (always) worth it if the government spends a lot of money to protect a wild animal?

Yes, definitely. Wild animals are very important. We are all a part of an ecological chain. If any link of this chain is broken, we are all affected. Let us take the example of bats. Bats are on the verge of extinction. If we do not conserve them, we will be in danger. Let me explain why. Bats eat insects. If bats die, the number of insects will increase many fold. These insects will eat our crops. So we will have nothing to eat. So it is very important to conserve.

Arepeople in your country very aware about animal protection?

Awareness among people is increasing day by day. But still, there are a lot of people who do not know much.

What do you suggest could be done to make people more aware of this issue?

A lot could be done. The government could aware people through the media. For example, when the government took the help of media for awaring people about the project tiger, many people came to know about the importance of tiger and a lot of funds were collected for saving our national animal.

Do you think human activities are affecting wild life?

Yes, definitely. We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals. If they have nowhere to live, they die.

Even our technology is affecting animals. For example, the rays from telephone towers have affected bird life. We hardly see any sparrows nowadays.

We are doing unnecessary experiments which are harming animals. We are hunting animals for meat and their body parts.

So our activities are definitely affecting wild life.

Whatare the reasons that some species of animals and birds are becoming extinct?

This is because of many reasons. We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals. If they have nowhere to live, they die.

Even our technology is affecting animals. For example, the rays from telephone towers have affected bird life. We hardly see any sparrows nowadays.

We are doing unnecessary experiments which are harming animals. We are hunting animals for meat and their body parts.

So, because of all these some species of animals and birds are becoming extinct.

Whatshould the government do for the conservation of these species?

Government should do a lot. It should aware people about the importance of animals.

It should make laws against hunting and cutting trees. It should have strict punishment for law breakers.

Wildlife sanctuaries and parks should be made and maintained well so that they can live in their natural habitat.

Why do people like to see animals on TV?

We like to see animals on TV because many species of animals are endangered and on the verge of extinction and we can see them only on TV.

Moreover, animals are the beautiful creation of God and we feel happy to see how they live in their natural habitat. We feel enchanted by their pranks. Nowadays zoos are very rare and TV is the only source to see animals.

Why do children like to have toy animals?

Animals enchant children. They love their pranks. They love to play with animal toys. Parents also provide toy animals because they are educative. For example if they play with a toy tiger they learn about their national animal.

What is the effect of humans on animals?Humans have a lot of effect on

We are cutting trees. Trees are the natural home of animals. If they have nowhere to live, they die.

Even our technology is affecting animals. For example, the rays from telephone towers have affected bird life. We hardly see any sparrows nowadays.

We are doing unnecessary experiments which are harming animals. We are hunting animals for meat and their body parts.

So our activities are definitely affecting wild life.

How can we contribute to the conservation of animals?We can contribute in a number of

We can stop cutting trees. We can stop hunting animals We can become vegetarians

We can avoid using technology We should not use leather purses. We should try to reduce pollution.

We can aware other ignorant people around us of the importance of animals.

Isanimal conservation important?

Yes definitely. We are all a part of an ecological chain. If any link of this chain is broken, we are all affected. Let us take the example of bats. Bats are on the verge of extinction. If we do not conserve them, we will be in danger. Let me explain why. Bats eat insects. If bats die, the number of insects will increase many fold. These insects will eat our crops. So we will have nothing to eat. So it is very important to conserve.

Domany people in your country have a pet at home?

Yes, many people have dogs as pets. Some even have a parrot as a pet. Cats are not so common in my country as pets.

Whatpets do people in your country like to have?

People like to have dogs, parrots and cats as pets.

Do you think the fish that some people keep at home can be called “pets”?Fish are ornamental They are not playful. They just look beautiful.

Why do some people have fish in their homes?

Having a fish as a pet has health benefits. Pet fish help people relax after a hard days’ work. Studies have reported that there is a significance decrease in blood pressure readings after gazing at the aquarium for a certain period of time. At an old-age home, it was noticed that patients with Alzheimer’s improved because of the aquarium placed on their living room. They ate more than the usual and took less supplements all because of their fishy friends. Amazingly, they also became less aggressive than before.

There have also been studies that IQ of children improves if they gaze at fish in an aquarium.

Why do people have (or, keep) pets?

People have pets for many reasons. The most important reason is for companionship. Pets are playful and can be very comforting when you are alone. Secondly pets are stress busters. They help you relax. Another advantage is that pets like dogs can give you security. They warn you if any intruder is around your property. Pets are also good for children.

Do you think there are benefits for children to have a pet?

Yes, certainly. There are many benefits of pets for kids. Pets are a wonderful stress buster for kids. Pets are wonderful playmates and sympathetic listeners. They also stimulate communication skills in children. Pet ownership is an excellent way to teach children about responsibility. Pets require a great deal of attention, guidance and care. In return for feeding, grooming and exercising their pets, children obtain companionship and unconditional love. So, pets make wonderful, loving companions that offer unconditional love.

Do you think having an animal in the home can ever be dangerous?

Yes, having an animal can be dangerous. If the pet is not immunized, it can be dangerous. Sometimes the pet can turn violent if not treated properly and can bite.

Do you think a pet can ever present a safety hazard to children?

Yes, having a pet can be a safety hazard. If the pet is not immunized, it can be dangerous. Sometimes the pet can turn violent if not treated properly and can bite.

Whatanimals do you think are unsuitable to have as pets in the home?

I think it is unsuitable to have big breeds of dogs such as Labradors or German shepherds as pets if you live in a small apartment because these breeds need space for playing. Otherwise they can turn violent.

Do you think it’s cruel to keep a dog in an apartment?

It is OK to keep smaller breeds in an apartment. I think it is cruel to have big breeds of dogs such as Labradors or German shepherds as pets if you live in a small apartment because these breeds need space for playing. Otherwise they can turn violent.

Inwhat ways do animals bring benefits to people?

Animals bring benefits to people in many ways. People get work from animals. For example bulls are used to plough fields and horses to pull carts. We get milk and eggs from animals. We also keep pet animals for recreation and security.

Whatanimals have economic value for human beings?

Almost all animals have economic value for humans. Animal parts like the tusks of elephants and horn of the rhinoceros are very costly. Some animals give milk which is used as food. Animal hide is used for making shoes and coats. Some people even make money from pet animals by selling pups. Wild animals kept in zoos also fetch a lot of money.

Doanimals contribute to the economy of a country?

Yes, animals contribute to the economy of a country. Animal parts like the tusks of elephants and horn of the rhinoceros are very costly. Some animals give milk which is used as food. Animal hide is used for making shoes and coats. Some people even make money from pet animals by selling pups. Wild animals kept in zoos also fetch a lot of money.

Dopeople in your country raise animals in order to make money?

Yes, people raise animals to make money. People raise cows and buffalos, horses, pigs in their farms to make money. This is called factory farming.

Some people (vegetarians) choose not to eat meat. Why do you think they make that choice?Some people are vegetarians because their religion does not permit them to eat Some are vegetarians because vegetarian diet is healthier. It has more fibre and less cholesterol and fat

What do you think about eating dog meat (eating dog / eating the meat of dogs)?

I think it is not good. But I’ve heard that in some parts of the world like China and Japan people eat dog meat.

Positives of Zoos

Zoosplay an important role in wildlife They can help to protect endangered species
Zoosallow scientists to study animals and their behavior
Zoosare educational, interesting and Children, in particular, enjoy learning about animals
Zoosprovide job
Zoosattract tourists – economy is boosted

Negatives of Zoos

Zooanimals are kept in artificial They are kept in cages or have limited space
Zooanimals rely on They lose the freedom to hunt for food.
Theybest way to save endangered species is by protecting natural
Somepeople believe that zoos are Zoos exhibits animals with the aim of making money. We have no right to use animals for entertainment and profit.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Zoos – Paragraph writing

Animals have been kept in captivity for many years and there are many advantages of zoos. Firstly, in modern zoos animals are placed in enclosures which try to simulate their natural habitats. In these enclosures they are protected from their natural predators and well looked after. The animals are provided with shelter, food and medical attention. Secondly, zoos provide the public with educational information about animals. They increase the public’s knowledge of the dangers many animals face and the kind of habitats they live in. Lastly, zoos often rescue animals which would have otherwise been killed or animals in captivity which have been treated cruelly by humans.

On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages of zoos. Campaigners argue that zoos are cruel for animals and that the enclosures where they are kept are far too small. They also argue that some animals are taken out of their natural environments. Problems have arisen for animals that are faced with different climates, especially those from hot countries that then have to survive cold winters somewhere in Europe for example. Finally, not all zoos provide their animals with the care and attention they require. In some zoos animals are kept in dirty cages, are undernourished and not given any medical treatment.

14. A park you visited and liked

Describe a park you visited and liked

Whereis it
Whenyou went there
Whyyou liked it

Parksare the most popular leisure
Myhome town has many
Thereis one park just opposite my
Butthe park that I am going to talk about here is Virender
Itis about 2 km from my
Myfriend, Suman, lives near that
Shetook me to that park about 6 months
Inever knew that such a beautiful park was there in my home
Itis named after Virender Deol, brother of famous film star Dharminder
Thisis the most attractive and well-maintained park of my home
Itis a big garden having one main gate and two side
Ithas a long jogging track that passes along the circumference of the
Thisoffers maximum length to these who want to walk or
Thispark is full of activity in the mornings and in the
Thisis frequented by people of all age
Anumber of octogenarians and centenarians of my home town can be seen
Thereis an NGO in my hometown, which offers free yoga training to people in the morning and
Sopeople come to this park with their yoga-mat and do yoga
Myfriend and I also did yoga that day with
Onone side there are swings and see-saws for
Itwas so much fun to see little children take turns on the
Thereare many trees in the
Suman’sfather is very fond of topiary
Topiaryis an art in which decorative shapes are made by clipping
Hehas made an elephant and a giraffe in one corner of that
Heis very
Sumantook me there, because she wanted to show me her father’s art
Thereare also benches for people to sit and
Ijust loved that
Sometimes,I go there and sit there for some
Ifeel so peaceful after going

Cue Card 14: Follow Up Questions

Howoften do you visit parks?

I visit parks very often. I go to a park near my home, for morning walk. It is a very nice park with lots of trees and greenery.

Dowe need big parks or small parks in the city

We need small parks at regular intervals so that people can enjoy these parks near their homes.

Whyis it important to have parks in a city?

Parks act as lungs of the community. They are very important. As it is, we are living in concrete jungles

Whatkinds of things should a park offer to visitors?

Parks should have shady trees, benches, jogging tracks, rest room and water facility.

Shouldpeople visit parks every week?

Yes, people should visit parks very often, at least once a week, to be in the lap of nature and breathe some fresh air.

15. A speech you heard

Describe an interesting talk or speech that you heard recently.

Whereyou heard it
Whothe speaker was
Whatthe talk or speech was about
andexplain why you think it was

Ihave heard many talks in my
Buthere I would like to discuss with you a speech which I heard recently in the environment fair held in my home town
Thisenvironment fair is held every year in December in my home
Iwas surprised to see my old school principal Gurbax Singh over there.
Heis very famous person in my home town and is known for his oratorical
Hetalked on the topic of global
Thewhole globe is involved in
Theway he described the causes and effects was very
Itwas an eye-opener for
Hesaid that we humans are the causes and we humans can lessen
Healso told us how the pollution which is caused by cutting trees, having more industries and cars and other human luxuries – is leading to global
Thenhe told us about the effects of global
Firsteffect is the rise in the sea
Thisis because of the melting of mountain
Secondeffect is the changing
Weall know that summers are getting hotter and winters are getting
Finally,we are having epidemics of diseases like malaria and
Thisis because mosquitoes and flies prosper in the
He also told how to lessen this phenomenon by simple measures likeNot cutting down

Planting more trees. Using recycled materials. Saying no to plastic bags.

Ifelt very enlightened after listening to his spellbinding
Itry to avoid using plastic bags and also accept recycled material even though quality is

Cue Card 15 Follow Ups

Why do people get nervous when they speak in public?

I think public speaking is the most common fear among people. There are many reasons why people feel nervous when speaking in public. It may be due to lack of confidence, lack of knowledge about the subject or the topic, hesitation due to the feeling that they are being judged or it maybe because of shyness or an introvert nature.

Howcan they improve their public speaking skills?

Public speaking can be improved by gaining more knowledge about the topic or the subject. This will build up confidence. It can be practice with friends and family, who can help improve the speaking skills by giving feedback. We can also make use of technology by recording our speech and replaying it. And getting a lot of practice before the actual event helps improve the confidence to speak in front of public.

Whatdifferent kinds of speeches or lectures have you attended in your life?

I have attended many kinds of speeches and lectures that in my life. During my school and college years, I have attended various lectures delivered by my teachers or guest speakers, about various topics and subjects. I have attended some motivational speeches about things like time management, positive thinking, etc. There are many religious speeches that I have heard at the Gurudwara/temple/church/mosque. I have also hears speeches from/by political leaders, usually right before elections. I have attended speeches and lectures about social issues also, like drug addiction, female feticide, dowry issue and many more.

Whatqualities (attributes) should these visiting speakers have?

There are many qualities/attributes required to be a good speaker, like confidence, in- depth knowledge about the topic, good memory, ability to keep the audience engaged, which can be achieved through an interactive session, where everyone in the audience is involved or maybe by adding a touch of humor. A good command on the language is also a must and the person should speak clearly and confidently.

Why do you many people find it hard to give a talk to young children?

I think it is hard to give a talk to young children because they usually have a very short attention span. They get distracted easily and it is important to keep them constantly involved and engaged during the speech. They are not mature enough to know the facts and there have different strategies used to explain the subject or the topic to them, for example, by telling a story that they can relate to and understand.

Why do you think many people are nervous before they give a speech?Same answer as for question

Why do people give speech to children?

The main reason for giving a lecture or a speech to children is to teach them moral or social values or to give knowledge about a particular topic or subject. It could also be used to motivate children to perform better or maybe to become more organized.

Whomakes people do so?

It could be the parents, the school/college management, local NGOs, government authorities, like the traffic police, etc.

Howmedia relates to the speech to children in school?

Media plays a very important role in everyone’s life these days. The speeches given to children in schools can be published in newspapers or broadcast on TV, which further helps spread the message or awareness among other schools/educational institutions and the children.

Whatkind of people can give speech to children?

People with in-depth knowledge about the subject or the topic and those who understand that children have a very short attention span and need to be constantly kept engaged and involved are the ones who can give speech to children.

Howabout people on normal jobs?

People on normal jobs can definitely give speeches to schoolchildren. It helps the children understand the importance of various jobs that people do, be it a firefighter or a bank employee or a police inspector and so on.

What’s the aim of giving speeches to children?Same as the answer to 7.

Do you think people who are good public speakers have talents that they were born with?

Some people are born with good oratorical skills, but some people can develop these skills with constant practice

Nowadaystechnology has replaced some aspects of Can you give any examples of that?

Yes, nowadays people can make presentations, and then it becomes very easy to speak because they don’t have to mug up things to speak. The points they have to elaborate on, are visible in the presentation

Do you think visual aids are useful when giving a talk or a speech?(Same as above)

16. A book you would like to read again

Describe a book you recently read that you would like to read again

Whatbook it was?
Whatthe book was about?
Whyyou read it?
Whatyou learned from this book?
Andexplain why you would like to read it again

Ihave read many books but here I would like to talk about the Wings of Fire” by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
Thatis a very good
Myfriend got this book as a prize when she participated in a declamation contest
Itis Dr Kalam’s auto-biography.
Itwas first published in
Thisbook became popular only after Kalam became the president of India.

Hewas sworn in as the president of India on 25 July
MrArun Tiwari helped Dr Kalam in writing the
Kalam says why he wrote his autobiography.
Thisbook is very
Fromthis book I came to know all about the life and achievements of Dr P.J.Abdul Kalam
DrKalam was born in a very poor family in the southern parts of India at
Thereason why I admire him is that his life shows how & ordinary boy from a deprived class (poor family) could reach the highest level of the
Hebecame not only the best rocket engineer but also the first citizen of the
Itis true that he described his posting as the president as a piece of luck, but his achievement as a rocket engineer were absolutely because of sheer hard
Heis role model for one &
Thesuccess of Dr Kalam depended on the fact that he was willing to grow
Helearned everything that come to him &was looking for thing to
The real success of Dr.Kalam is in his application of the discipline, what he learned, inother fields
Thatis why he could contribute to artificial limbs of lesser
Inhim we find a person with insatiable quest for knowledge & with great love for suffering fellow
Unfortunately,we don’t have Dr Kalam with us today, but he will live in the hearts of all
Iwould like to read this book again, because it is a very motivating

Cue Card 16: Follow Ups

Dopeople in your country like to read books?

Yes, people of my country like to read books. There are book shops in most towns and cities, which are all doing good business.

Whatkinds of books are most popular in your country?

All types of books are very popular. India is a diverse country. People have diverse tastes in everything, including reading.

Do you think reading is important?

Yes, reading is very important. It develops imagination and also develops language skills.

Do you think paper books will eventually be replaced by electronic books?Not completely, but to a large extent E-books have a lot of advantages

Benefits of e-books over traditional books

Somepeople like to collect Why do you think they do this?

They do so because they love books. They treat books as collectibles, and are proud of their collection.

Iscompulsory reading (in school) is a good idea?

Yes, definitely. In order for students to achieve in math, science, English, history, geography, and other subjects, reading skills must be developed to the point that most of them are automatic. Students cannot struggle with word recognition when they should be reading quickly for comprehension of a text. But the ability to read and write develops with careful planning and instruction. Children need regular and active interactions with print.

ReadingIs A Good Workout

Just like muscles, the brain benefits from a good workout. And reading is more demanding than watching TV or listening to the radio.

ReadingBuilds Vocabulary

While reading books, especially challenging ones, you will find yourself exposed to many new words you wouldn’t be otherwise.

ReadingHelps Self Esteem

Another one of the key reading benefits is that the more you read, the more knowledgeable you become. With more knowledge comes more confidence. More confidence builds self esteem. So it’s a chain reaction.

ReadingImproves Creativity

Reading exposes you to new ideas and more information helps to develop the creative side of the brain.

Whatbooks do children read and what do adults read?

Children read fantasy, fiction and books on supernatural characters like Barbie, superman and shaktiman. Adults read biographies, fiction and religious and spiritual books

Why men and women prefer different books?This is because they have different

Whysome books become internationally popular?

This is perhaps because, these receive a lot of publicity.

Whattype of books children read nowadays?

Nowadays, generally speaking, the reading habit of the children is on the decline. Whatever books they read are based on fantasy, fiction and supernatural characters like Barbie, superman and shaktiman.

50 years ago – Children read a lot. They read moral and spiritual books. They read animal stories.

After 50 years – I do not think they will do any reading. All the time will be spent in front of computers.

Do you think children have lost their interest in stories?

No, I don’t think that children have lost their interest in stories. However, the stories they read today are very different from the past.

Canstory books be an ideal gift for children?

Yes, definitely! Story books can be an ideal gift for children. They can help the child imagine the characters in the mind which is the first step to creativity. Another important benefit is that we can impart the knowledge of culture, tradition, moral values and religion in the mind of the child. This forms the basis of the child’s personality. Finally, story books enhance the curiosity of the child and enhance their mental growth.

Whatcan be done to encourage the habit of reading among children?

A lot can be done to encourage the habit of reading among children. The first and foremost step would be to make books available. There should be good libraries in the schools as well as in neighbourhoods. Story telling competitions could be organised. If children have to take part in these competitions, then naturally, they would be encouraged to read books. Finally, books could be made more interesting by adding graphics.

Howdoes reading help a child?

Reading helps to improve concentration. It also helps to improve general knowledge. It also improves the language skills and satisfies the curiosity of children on various things.

Whatsort of books can be suggested to children to read?

Children should be encouraged to read religious and historical books. They should also read biographies and autobiographies of famous people so that they get motivation from them. They should also be encouraged to read books on science and technology. However, these books should be made very interesting by adding pictures.

Howmuch should a child read every day?

A child should read half to one hour daily. I think that would be enough considering that they have to go to school and do their homework as well.

Whatis the difference between the books sold in the past and the books sold nowadays?

In the past, books related to culture, tradition, religion and history were sold. Nowadays, books are mostly based on fiction and fantasy.

17. A person you met and would like to know more about

Describe a person you met and would like to know more about

– Who is he/she

– Where did you meet him/her

– Why you want to know more about him/her

Inour day-to-day life we meet many
Someleave an imprint on our mind and we want to know more about them
Here,I would like to talk about a person whom I met in my friend Suman’s house last
Itwas Suman’s
Shehad invited a few friends and relatives over for
Itwas there that I met her maternal aunt
Sheis in her 40s, but looks much
Shewas wearing a pink sari, and was looking very
Sumantold me that her aunt was a home-science lecturer in a government college at
Sumanshowed me a cross-shoulder bag, which her aunt had stitched for her
Itlooked like a work of
Whatimpressed me about her was that besides working and taking care of the household, she still managed to find time for her
Shealso knew a lot about Indian history which was something even I had an interest in since my
I also came to know that she hadwon Miss Jalandhar beauty pageant(contest) during her
Iwas just awed by her
Sumantold me that she had learnt a lot of creative things from her
Ienjoyed Suman’s birthday lunch and then returned
Eversince I met Jyoti aunty, I have been thinking about
Iwould like to meet her again and know more about
Iwant to learn so many things from

Cue Card 17: Follow ups:

Describea village near your hometown

Describe a village near your hometown

– What is it

– Where is it

– When you went there

– Describe your experience there

Ibelong to a small town Phagwara
Itis on the National Highway 44 between Jalandhar and Ludhiana
Thereare many villages near my
Buthere, I would like to talk about village Plahi, which is the most hi-tech village of
Actually,our school took us for a visit to the Plahi village, last
Iwas awed to see the
Thisvillage developed so much because of the efforts of the NRIs of this
Thelocal people of the village set up an NGO – National Rural Development Society
ThisNGO has transformed the lives of 3800
ThisNGO is providing free internet to all
Thereis a big soundproof community hall, which can accommodate more than 1000
Thereis a stadium and a polytechnic also in the
Ithas a well maintained public park and an energy
Itis the only village in Punjab, which runs almost entirely on renewable energy
Streetlights, water heaters, pumps, cookers – everything is
Peoplehave smokeless chullas and biogas plants in their
Nowonder, it is called the energy
Palahifills people with
Thevillage makes you think big; it makes you feel
Thisvillage surely knows how to
Iremember we were all very inspired by the visit to this

Cue Card 18: Follow ups

Whatare the differences between rural and urban life?

There are many differences between rural and urban life. In villages is slower, and people are friendlier. In cities, everybody seems to be running after something. Air is relatively pollution free in villages.

Whatcan be done to improve the life in rural areas?

Many things can be done to improve the life in rural areas. Good schools and health centers could be opened there. The connectivity with the cities could be improved.

Doesgovernment pay more attention to rural areas or urban areas?

Government pays more attention to urban areas because there are more people living in urban areas. Mostly the authorities focus on providing facilities in the cities as compared to the villages.

Describea gift you gave someone

A gift you gave

– What the gift was

– Who you gave it to

– Why you gave it

– And explain whether this person liked the gift or not

Ihave given and received many gifts in my life
HereI am going to talk about a gift which I gave to my best friend on his eighteenth
Itwas a mobile
Hehad always wanted a mobile
Buthis parents would not buy him one
Isaved all my pocket money for five to six months to buy this mobile
Itcost me Rs 2800
Itis a small mobile – a Samsung X-210 model
Itis black rectangular and a folder type model
Ithas many features like watch, calculator, FM radio, alarm, timer and a memory card to store phone numbers
Itdoes not have a camera but all the other features are very useful
Isaw an ad of this phone six months ago and immediately started saving money to buy
Then,I used to get Rs 500 per month as pocket
Iwas so fond of chocolates and candies that I used to spend all my pocket money on these
ButI remember I did not eat a single chocolate those six
I wasoverjoyed to see the happy look on my friend’s face when I gave him the mobile
Ihonestly feel that there is more pleasure in giving than

Cue Card 19 Follow ups

Whatis the importance of gifts?

Gifts are gestures of love. They strengthen bonds of friendship. Gifts make the recipient feel special.

Isthere any pressure on us to buy presents?

As such, there is no pressure on us to buy presents. But sometimes when we receive costly presents then there is a pressure to reciprocate in the same way. Then it may cause pressure. I believe that gifts should be just gestures of love. Too costly gifts should not be there.

Nowadays, we belong to a consumerist society. There are so many choices of gifts. This may seem good to some, but I often get confused when it comes to selecting a gift.

DoIndian people often give gifts?

Yes, Indian people like to give gifts. They give gifts on special occasions such as marriages, birthdays and anniversaries etc.

What’sthe value of giving presents?

Gifts are gestures of love. They give happiness to the giver as well as the receiver.

Describe some of the gifts that Indian people give each other on different occasions.People give all sorts of gifts to each They give sweets, chocolates, clothes, electronic items or gift cards to their friends and relatives.

Whatkinds of gifts are suitable for friends to give each other?

Friends know each other well, so they can give any gift, which can be useful to the other person. The gift need not be expensive. It should be taken as a gesture of love and not for economic value.

Whatfactors do people consider when buying a gift for friends?

People consider a lot of things when buying a gift for friends. They consider the friends requirement and they consider their own pocket.

Why do people give presents?

People give presents as gestures of love. Presents give happiness to the recipient as well as the person who is giving the present.

Dochildren prefer receiving gifts or spending happy time with their parents?

Children are very innocent. They love receiving gifts. They take the happy time with their parents as granted. So, they don’t give it much value.

Comparethe kinds of gifts that boys like with those that girls like?

Gender differences are disappearing nowadays. But generally boys like electronic gadgets and girls like barbie dolls and stuffed toys.

Comparethe kinds of gifts that well educated people like with those that less educated people like?

I do not think that the literacy level of the person has anything to do with the choice of gifts. Every person has his or her own taste. A very educated person may not appreciate a book as a gift, which may be very much liked and appreciated by a less educated person

Areexpensive gifts always better than cheap gifts?

I definitely do not think so. A simple inexpensive flower may give more happiness to the person than a very costly gift.

Domen and women have the same attitudes towards gift giving?

There are no gender differences nowadays. Both like to give and receive gifts and even the choice of the gifts is almost similar nowadays.

How are gifts that people give each other today different to gifts when you were a child?Today we belong to an era of globalization. The market today is flooded with choices. You can buy any gift, and there are gifts to suit every Earlier, the choices were

restricted. Today we have a lot of electronic items also.

Howare toys today different to toys of the past?

Today we have electronic toys, whereas earlier we had wooden toys and plastic toys.

Howdo you think toys will change in the future?

What the future holds in store for us no one can tell, but as far as I can see, there will be more and more electronic gadgets in the future, which the children will play with as toys.

Ifyou were going to give a present to a child, what would you give him?

I would give a child, a book as a gift. He may not like it at first, but it will shortly develop the habit of reading one day. I believe that books are the best gifts. They remain with that person forever.

Whenyou buy toys for very young children and babies, what should you pay special attention to?

When I buy toys for very young children, I pay special attention to the age rating on the toy. I would also not like to buy anything in low quality plastic, because that can be harmful for the child.

Whatkinds of gifts do parents give to their young children?

Pendants give all sorts of gifts to their children. They know the requirement of their children and give gifts accordingly. Mostly parents give educational gifts, from which the child can learn something in a fun way.

Isit good to give children too many presents such as too many toys?

No it is definitely not good to give a child too many presents. Children do not appreciate the value of toys when they are given too many toys. It also decreases their imagination and creativity. They also do not learn sharing with other children.

Whatcould be the result of that? (same as above)

Someparents don’t spend much time with their child but instead give the child gifts as a way to show their Do you think this is good enough?

No I do not think this is good enough. The time been didn’t spend with the children is more important then the gifts they give them.

Describea situation when you were not allowed to use cell phone

Describe a situation you were not allowed to use your cell phone

– Where was it

– When was it

– Why you were not allowed

– What did you want to do with your cell phone

Cellphones have become an indispensable part of our lives
Today,we cannot think of a life without the cell
Thereare many places, where the use of a cell phone is very
Forexample, in religious places like temples, restaurants and
Here,I would like to talk about a situation when I was not allowed to use the cell phone
Last month, my aunt had come from the UK to spend a few days with us and do someshopping for her daughter’s
Wedecided to go to the Golden Temple Amritsar on the
Iremember vividly, there was a long queue to enter the main
Ourturn came after one hour’s
Justas we entered the main prayer hall, my phone started
Everybodyturned to look at me as if I had committed a
Ihad forgotten to turn my cell phone
Therewere notices all around that cell phones had to be turned to the silent mode before entering the
Icut the call and immediately turned off my cell
Ifelt very
Therewere so many people there but nobody’s cell phone was
Afterdoing the circumambulation of the holy book, we came
Thenwe went to the community kitchen, where food is served round the
Afteranother one hour, we came out of the main building of the temple, and then I switched my cell phone back
Therewere four missed calls from my cousin
Icalled her and told her why we didn’t answer her calls
She
Sothis was the situation when I was not allowed to use my cell

Cue Card 20: Follow ups

Whatis the impact off the cell phone?

I believe cell phones have both positive and negative impact on our lives.

Due to the cell phones we have instant access to information and also because of them we can connect with our loved one’s; anywhere, anytime. But at the same time if you think about the negative impacts cell phones have also become a great cause of stress in our lives. The need to always stay connected is taking a toll on our personal lives.

Whatis the smartphone used the most for?

I think, nowadays the smartphones are primarily used for accessing social networking applications such as whatsapp, facebook and twitter etc. People also use them for Official and Entertainment prupose like checking office email or watching movies and playing games.

Whatis your opinion about selfies?

I believe, Selfies are one of the biggest trends of our era. People are not camera shy anymore and with the advent of front facing cameras on smartphones they are taking selfies for every occasion and at every place they visit.

Howyou prepared for a happy event

Howyou prepared for a happy event
- Whatwas the event
- Whenit was
- Whowas with you
- Whyyou prepared for it

Happyand sad events are part of our
Ihave enjoyed many happy events in my life such as marriage parties and
HereI would like to talk about a time when I prepared for my brother’s (sister’s, nephew’s or anybody’s) surprise birthday
Ivividly remember that day because I had to prepare things in advance, as well as keep things secret from my
Myparents were with me in this birthday
Weinvited all his friends and some children from the
Itwas 26th May and we did not wish him happy birthday in the
Weall did it on
Hewas turning 13 that
Wecould make out that he was feeling perplexed that we all had forgotten his
Thenhe went to school and my mother and I started the
Mymother has excellent culinary
Shebaked an excellent vanilla cake and many other snacks like cutlets, fries, bread toast and so
Idecorated the house with buntings and
Itwas real
Ialso prepared gifts for some games I had
Whenmy brother came home from school, we all were waiting for
Ican never forget that surprised and happy look on his
Igifted him a wristwatch on that
Itwas an important birthday for him as he had entered into his
So,we tried to make it special for
Weclicked many photographs on that
Onephotograph has come out very
We’vegot it enlarged and
Itis hanging in our living

Cue Card 21: Follow ups

Whatare some things that made you feel happy?

Small things give me happiness. A pat on my back by my elders makes me happy. Food of my choice makes me happy. Outings with my friends make me happy. If my parents are happy with me, I feel happy.

Do you think artistic activities can make people happy?(Why/Why not)

Artistic activities can definitely make people happy. Art is a stress buster. It is a way of expression. It is a way to communicate your inner feelings. Young people feel happy when they release their pent up energy by dance. In a way they sweat out their stress. If stress is out, happiness is in.

Do you think people who have more talent are happier than others? (Why/Why not) Happiness has nothing to do with Those who are talented and those who are not so talented can be equally happy. Singing a song can give equal happiness to a talented singer and a bathroom singer. Talented people can make others happy with their talent.

Do you think money makes people happy?

To some extent, yes, money can buy happiness. A person who does not have the basic amenities like food, clothing and shelter can get happiness if he gets the money for these things. But after a certain extent, other things become more important. Good health and good relations with friends and family are more important which cannot be bought with money.

Are the things or events that make people happy today the same as several decades ago?Things that bring happiness haven’t Celebrations of festivals, marriages, birthdays and passing exams, all bring happiness even today, but today people can celebrate happy events together globally through technology. For example my friend could not come for his sisters marriage as he was away. But, he was all the time there through apps such as skype.

Why do people feel happy when they are with members of their family?

Family is like a person’s own body part. Everyone has a strong bond with one’s family. Family is always with you through thick and thin. So being with family, gives happiness.

Whatare some examples of family activities that make people happy?

Eating together, watching TV together, playing games together, going for outings and many other such family activities make people happy.

Do you think there is any difference between a person’s age and happiness? (Why/Why not). Do young people and older people find happiness in the same things?

As age advances, one’s priorities change and the things, which give happiness also change. Young people are happy when they themselves achieve something. Parents get happiness from their children’s achievements. The elderly are happy if they are fit ant not dependent on their children.

Some people say the happiest time in people’s lives is the period when they are at school? Do you agree?

I think when a person looks back at his life, he may realise that school days were the happiest. Unfortunately, when we are at school, we don’t realise this. There is so much competition and burden of studies.

Whenyou are older, what kind of things will bring you happiness?

Achievements of ones children and grandchildren, a fit body and financial security give happiness in old age.

Do you think people in the past were happier than they are now?

Earlier, life was slower and people were more relaxed. So, it appears that people were happier then. But, I believe that happiness is a state of mind. Those who want to stay happy can find happiness even in the torrid pace of life today.

Whatmakes people happy?

Happiness is a state of mind. Different people have different concepts about happiness. For a nursery student, being able to write ‘A’ properly can give happiness. A poor person may get happiness if he wins a lottery. A person suffering from cancer can get happiness if a cure is found for his illness. Parents feel happy if their children do well in school.

Do you believe that people used to define happiness in a different way in the past, or that the concept of happiness hasn’t change with the passage of time?

I believe that concept of happiness has not changed with time. But, the way people show their happiness has changed because of advancement of technology these days. For example, when India won the cricket World Cup this time it was celebrated all over the world at the same time. There were firework displays everywhere.

Do you believe that old people can be happier than young people?

I believe that old people can be happier than young people because young people today have a lot of burden on their shoulders. They have the burden of choosing a career. They have the burden of adopting the culture. They are forced by their parents to adopt the traditional culture but they want to adopt the global culture. They are exposed to a consumerist society in which

there are a lot of things, which they want to own, but they don’t have the money for those things.

What do you have to do to achieve a long-term happiness?

We should have a steady career. We should have a good family life and good health. One should know how to strike a balance between work and leisure. One should not be a workaholic.

Isunhappiness always a bad thing?

No, unhappiness is not always a bad thing. It is the unhappiness, which makes us realize the importance of happiness. It is the night, which tells us the value of day.

Favouriteweather

Describe your favourite weather.

Whatkind of weather it is
Whenthis weather usually occurs
Whatyou usually do during this weather
Explainhow this weather affects you
Andexplain why you like this type of

Weatheris a short term atmospheric condition
Itkeeps changing every now and
Weenjoy many types of weather in India
Wehave the hot weather in summers and cool weather in
Theweather in spring and autumn is generally
The weather I am going to talk about here is the pleasant weather we have during thespring, that is March and beginning of
This is a very welcome weather because it brings great relief from the intense cold of
The flowers are in full bloom everywhere, and you can hear the happy chirping of the
Springseason gives you a reason to
Itinfuses colour in your
Thespring season is important for
Cropsripen in the
Farmersstore wheat and barley at
Everybodyfeels a sense of joy and
Besides,spring is a season of festivals of the
Holiis a festival of eating and
Ienjoy it the
Holiadds to the glory of the spring
Daysand nights are neither too long nor too
Ihate the cold wind of
Ido not like the hot sun of
Idislike mud and dirt caused by the
Sospring is my favorite season, and its weather is my favourite

Cue Card 22: Follow ups

Do you often pay attention to the weather forecast? (Why?/Why not?)

Yes, I pay attention to the weather forecast on a regular basis. The reason is I travel a lot and it becomes necessary to know about the weather to be prepared in advance. Also the climate change has made the weather unpredictable. It sometimes rains even in the dry season as such knowing the weather on a day to day basis has become a necessity.

How does the weather (or, the weather forecast) affect what activities people do?People prefer to stay indoors on a hot sunny days or rainy days and go out for picnics on pleasant days. Also there are things we like to eat in certain weather – for example fritters in rainy days, ice creams on warm days It also affects the clothing patterns. People wear light colored loose cotton dresses in summers and dark warm clothes in cold weather.

(Similarto above) How does the weather affect people’s daily lives?

Why do some people dislike some kinds of weather?

I think its because weather can limit people’s activities. If weather restricts people from enjoying their favourite activity, it can make them dislike that weather. My friend hates rainy days because he likes to play cricket and he can’t do that because of the rain.

Dopeople wear different clothes in different types of weather (or, different seasons)? ( Same as 2)

Doesthe weather have an effect on the economy?

Yes weather affects our economy. For example due to milder winters, a lot of people from cold northern countries visit us during that time. Thus it promotes tourism. Also certain weather like hot sunny days boost earning of local ice cream vendors. Similarly winters boost the jackets and sweaters industry.

(Similar but different) (In your country), are there any differences in economic activityin the different seasons?

There are differences in certain economic activities. For example warm clothes’ industry gets a boost in the winter season. Similarly farming is also dependent upon seasons – certain crops like rice is grown in summers whereas others like wheat in winters.

Are there any festivals in your country that are related to a season (or, related to thechange of the seasons)?

Many festivals are related to seasons. For example Baisakhi celebrates the onset of spring and the harvest season. Teej in Punjab celebrates monsoon. Seasons affect the agriculture , they determines the sowing and harvest period and there are many festivals which are linked to agriculture and thus seasons.

Ashop that has opened in your hometown

Describe a shop that has opened in your hometown.

Whatshop it is
Whatit sells (or, what you usually buy there)
whenyou first started going to this shop (or, how you came to know about this shop)
andexplain why you like (to go to) this

Ibelong to Phagwara, and it is a shopper’s
It is a rich town as many people are NRIs and spend a lot when they come from abroadduring
Ashop, which has recently opened is the Vishal store
Itis on the T.Road, just opposite the bus stand of my home town Phagwara.
Itis a one-stop store for all shopping
Everythingneeded in day to day life is available under one
The best thing is that it is easily approachable and has a huge underground parking toaccommodate about 200
The whole store is centrally air conditioned and has escalators and lifts for theconvenience of the
Thereare four
Theground floor has grocery and vegetables and
Thefirst floor has garments and accessories such as purses, wallets, jewellery and
Thesecond floor has electronic gadgets and other miscellaneous household
Thetopmost floor has a food court where we can get pizzas and
Igo there very often, in fact once or twice a
Sometimes I accompany my mother for her grocery shopping and sometimes with myfriends to do some window
Ibuy all my clothes from this
Ithas all the leading brands and also some non-branded clothes at very reasonable
The thing that impressed me the most is that this store has a membership card systemand offers special discounts for the
Thesalesmen are very nice and
Theyare always ready to help if you can’t find
Sothis is the shop, which has impressed me a lot and I find very

Cue Card 23: Follow ups

Shopping in General

Do you think shopping is an important part of life?

Yes, shopping is an important part of life. Everybody needs things, and they have to buy them from the markets.

Domen and women have the same attitudes towards shopping?

Although, gender differences are disappearing, but in some ways there are some differences. Women generally shop for household items and clothes, and men go for electronic gadgets.

Why do you think some people are “crazy about” shopping?

Some people are crazy about shopping because they are shopaholics. They are lured by the things available in the markets and cannot resist buying them.

Why do you think online shopping has become so popular?

Online shopping has become popular primarily due to two reasons. Firstly, It’s very convenient for people to buy anything online by just clicking on a button. They don’t have to spend time on going to shops or in finding car parking. Secondly, ecommerce companies offer a lot of discounts online, hence making the products cheaper than their retail prices.

Do you think credit cards are a good thing?

I n many ways credit cards are good, but there are some disadvantages also.

Advantages

Firstly,you can use them practically everywhere, even
They can also boost your purchasing power because they can be used to buy goodsand services over the phone, through the mail and
They provide financial backup in the event of an emergency, such as an unexpectedhealthcare cost, job loss or auto repair. For instance, if a person is on a holiday and has a medical emergency, he will have no problem in paying the hospital
Creditcards allow you to purchase items and pay them off in monthly
They also offer discounts and rewards at stores. For instance, when you makepurchases using the credit card you can collect points, which accumulate and can be used to get free items, such as airline tickets. Some cards may offer cash back as an incentive to use the
They can help build your credit history. A person with a good credit history does notface problems when applying for a loan for any
Credit cards also keep a record of your expenses, helping you to monitor yourfinancial

Disadvantages

The most dangerous part of credit cards is not paying them off on time, and once youfall behind by one payment late fees, interest, and penalties build very fast because of which many people find themselves sunk in credit card debt with no way
Another big disadvantage is the hidden costs. There is the start-up fees andprocessing fees and also the annual fees, which is quite an

How is shopping today different to several decades ago?Shopping today is very different to several decades

Which is more popular in your country, shopping in shopping malls or shopping online?Both are equally popular. Online shopping is gaining a lot of popularity. Malls also lure customers by attractive

In what ways do you think “globalization” is changing shopping (in your country)?Because of globalization, online shopping has become very popular. Even in malls all foreign brands are So globalization has in a way revolutionized shopping.

Whatchanges do you think we will see in the future concerning shopping? I think, online shopping will become even more popular in the

Whichdo you think better, buying things online or buying things in real shops?

I think it’s really hard to decide which one is better because both of them offer their unique advantages. For example, online shopping provides you the comfort of ordering anything in the world with just a click of a button, whereas retail shopping provides you a great experience and the ability to feel the product before making a buying decision.

Howdo people pay for things they buy online?

People normally pay through their Credit Cards or use Online Banking for making purchases. But now a days ecommerce companies have also started providing the option of Cash on Delivery, i.e. people can pay when they receive the product

Awell paid job

Describe a well-paid job you can think of

Describewhy it a well paid
Howyou can get it

There are many jobs in the world which are well paid, such as the job of a teacher, adoctor, a nurse, a scientist, a politician and so many
HereI would like to talk about a job, which is very well paid
Thisis the job of a
Everyonepasses through the hands of teachers in school and college
Teachersare known as nation
All other professions such as doctors and nurses also pass through the hands of a
Ibelieve that teachers have the power to make the world a better
Ateacher is like a candle that burns itself and shows light to
Sinceage-old times, teaching has been considered a noble
Inancient India, there was the gurukul
Eventhe king’s children stayed in the home of the guru or the teacher.
They used to do the household chores of the guru and in return the guru imparted
Teachersimprove the literacy rate of a
Whenliteracy rate is high, crime and violence go
Ateacher requires good communication skills and depth of knowledge of his
Agood teacher should treat all students
Nowadays,teachers are being paid handsomely be the
Thisis to lure bright students to join this
Abachelor’s in education degree is required to be a
Ibelieve in enjoying what I do and at the same time I wish to do quality
Thesechildren are our
Oneof my aunt’s is a
Sheis earning
Shetells me that she enjoys her job very
Ihave seen her students give her a lot of respect and
Oneday, I wish I too become as successful as she is

Cue card 24 Follow up questions:

Do you think you want to be take up this job?

Yes, I would definitely like to take up this job. It requires great commitment but it is also well paid.

Whichoccupation should be given a better pay?

Teachers, doctors, nurses, entertainers, people in the civil services, people in the defense, those working in fire brigades, should all be given better pay.

Isbeing rich a good thing?

Yes, being rich is a good thing. Rich people can help others. They can also satisfy all their needs.

Do you think people should save for the future?

Yes, people should save for the future. The future is uncertain. There should always be some saving for the rainy days.

Whatmakes a person choose a job apart from the pay it offers?

Many factors help a person choose a job. The first is money, and the second is job satisfaction. Then there are chances of promotion. Good relations with the employers, perks and bonuses.

Anincident or situation, which made you laugh

Describe something that made you laugh.

You should say:

what it was

when it happened

who was with you

and explain why you laughed. *

and explain why you still remember this event. *

Ihave faced many situations when I burst into peals of
HereI would like to talk about one when I really laughed from my
It was my cousins wedding two months ago and we were all dancing on the beats of
Thegroom’s father, that is my uncle, had taken a few pegs of
Hewas dancing the
His odd and weird dancing steps were very hilarious and everyone was laughing at
Buthe was not at all
Hewas thoroughly enjoying
Myaunt tried to stop him many times but he wouldn’t
Hewas wearing a silken dhoti
Suddenlyhe tripped and his dhoti came
Thatwas the most hilarious moment of
Thebride and the groom also had a hearty
Thephotographer captured it all very nicely in his video
Eventoday when we see that we all have a hearty
Sothis is the situation when I laughed from my
Ithas been rightly said that laughter is the best
Unfortunately in the fast paced hectic lifestyle of today we are forgetting to realize theimportance of this free
Evendoctors are recommending this therapy for many depressive
Nowadayspeople have again begun to realize its
No wonder, we can see many sitcoms on TV nowadays such as Comedy Circus andChhote
Laughter clubs have also opened in many cities where people come to laugh out theirworries and

Cue Card 25 Follow ups

Whatmakes people laugh in your country (your culture)?

Humour, Comedy and Jokes make people laugh. We also tend to a laugh in social situations when we are together with friends and family.

Iscomedy very popular in your country?

(Similar to above) Are comedy TV shows very popular in your country?

Yes comedy shows are very popular in our country. Nowadays every channel has a slot for comedy shows. Earlier comedy shows only aired on weekends but now they also air on weekdays.

Do you think there are any differences between the comedy shows on TV that youngpeople like and those that old(er) people like?

(The question above might be this) Do you think there are any differences between what young people think is funny and what old(er) people think is funny?

Comedy makes everyone laugh, both old and young. However there might be certain jokes that only young people find funny and similarly there might be jokes that might make only old people laugh. For example jokes about Internet might not make old people laugh for they are not that familiar with it

What do you think are the differences between seeing comedy on TV and readingfunny materials in a book?

The first difference is that watching comedy on TV is a passive experience. It does not engage our imagination as much as reading funny materials in a book does. Second, comedy on TV uses expressions of people, books cannot capture certain expressions. Lastly we can enjoy watching comedy shows with others but reading books is something we do alone.

(Similar to above) What’s the difference between comedy on screen and in books and comics? FQx2

Would you like to appear in a TV comedy program?

Yes, if I given the opportunity I would certainly like to appear in a TV comedy show. I am certain I can make people laugh.

(If you say yes to the question above) How would you make people laugh?

I can do mimicry of certain actors and actresses. I also know a lot of jokes. Besides that I will prepare certain comedy skits , if I am given the opportunity.

Do you think it’s easy to translate comedy TV programs into other languages?No, it is actually very difficult. You have to explain what the word means in the language sometimes and the jokes lose their charm if that is

Comedy in Advertising (Frequent sub-topic)

Is comedy used much in advertisements in your country? (Why?)

Yes , comedy is very popular in advertisements. Advertisements are normally considered boring because they interrupt the flow of an interesting movie or a show. Funny advertisements tend to grab people’s attention and hence they are very common.

Do you think funny advertisements on TV are effective?

Advertisements are effective when people remember the product in someway especially when they are out shopping. Our brain tends to remember funny things and thus funny advertisements are very effective.

Humour

What do you think are the benefits of laughter?

Laughter is very good for health. It not only relieves the stress in our lives but also a creates a positive vibe which makes others around us also happy.

Can you think of any examples of something that some people think is funny whenother people don’t think it’s funny?

Yes, there are certainly differences in what different people find funny. For example there are certain dark topics like cancer, skin color, religion that are not acceptable (not acceptable – taboo) to some people.

Do you think there are differences between what males and females think ishumorous?

Do you think there are differences between what people of different ages think isfunny?

Why do you think some people find something funny that others think isn’t funny?

Do you think people today are happier than people were before?

No, I don’t think people are happier than the past. The modern fast paced life has brought stresses and tensions in life. Earlier people used to relieve their stress by talking to people but now as everyone is busy in their own lives, it is no more possible.

Do you think people’s idea of “happiness” today is different to the way they thoughtabout happiness in the past (e.g., 20 to 50 years ago)?

Yes, the definition of happiness has changed over changed. Today wealth is equated to happiness. Owning a new iphone, an expensive car makes people happy. Earlier it was more about spending time in the company of friends and family that brought people happiness.

Does being part of a family make people feel happy?

Being a part of a family gives us an identity. Sharing our joys and sorrows with our family makes us happy.