Common IELTS Questions & Related Vocabulary (Speaking & Writing) - Part 3

Part 3. :
- What kinds of souvenirs do Chines people buy? Why?
- Why do people like to buy souvenirs?
- Do you think it would be a good idea for a local person to open a souvenir shop? Why/why not?
- Do many people take photos during their travel? Why/why not?
- Do people in your country usually use a camera or a phone to photograph places they visit? Why?
- Why do you think so many people like to share their photos with others on social media?
- Do people in your country write travel blogs? Why/why not?
- Do you think writing a travel blog is a good idea? Why/why not?
- What makes us remember certain events from the past and forget the others? Why?
- How can technology help us remember the past? Why?
- Do you think technology might substitute human memory in the future? Why/why not?
- Which memories do people usually want to hold on to in their older age? Why?
- a special meal you had/would like to have/you invited friends or family to

Vocab :

1. staple food /ˈsteɪp(ə)l/ (n.) = food that people eat or use regularly

2. gastronomically redundant /ˌɡæstrəˈnɒmɪkli rɪˈdʌndənt/ (phr.) = not needed for cooking or eating anymore

3. frozen food/ˈfrəʊz(ə)n/ (n.) = food preserved by being made extremely cold and stored at a very low temperature

4. canned food /kænd/ (n.) = food that has been preserved in a metal container without air

5. a TV dinner (n.) = a prepared prepackaged meal that only requires heating before it is ready to eat

6. to have a sweet tooth (phr.) = to like to eat sweet food

7. a candlelight dinner /ˈkænd(ə)lˌlaɪt/ (phr.) = dinner with burning candles adding to the atmosphere

8. to take pot luck (phr.) = to choose sth when you do not know what you will get and can only hope that it will be good

9. seconds /ˈsekəndz/ (n.) = a second helping of a dish

10. nibbles /ˈnɪb(ə)lz/ (n.) = things like nuts, crisps, etc., before a meal

11. to enjoy a sumptuous meal in opulent surroundings /ˈsʌmptʃuəs/ /ˈɒpjʊlənt/ (phr.) = a rich meal in special surroundings

Part 3. :
- Is having a meal together important in your culture? Why?
- Why do some people choose to eat out on special occasions?
- Do you think people will eat more at home in the future?
- If both parents are working who can prepare meals for children in their families? Why?
- Is food that people in your country eat every day the same or different from food eaten on special occasions? How?
- Is there more variety of food in shops now than in the past? If so, is it good or bad for consumers? Why?
- Do you have a lot of imported products in your country? Why/why not?
- What are the biggest disadvantages of transporting food long distance?
- Do people prefer to buy local products or imported ones? Why?
- Do you think people’s diet is generally healthy today? Why/why not?
- What are some common health issues people have related to their diet nowadays?
- How can governments encourage their citizens to be on a healthy diet?
- How can healthy diet of public contribute to a stronger economy of the country? Why?
- What is the most popular food people in your country often eat?
- Do children like the same food as adults? Why/why not?
- Do people eat healthily today? Why/why not?
- Is the quality of food in your country good?
- Does the food cooked at home have better quality than restaurant meals? Why?
- What is more important when buying food? Quality or price?
- Is your government controlling the quality of food? How?
- Do you think there is too much food available nowadays?
- Is there imported food available in shops in your country?
- Why do people like to buy imported food?
- Do you think there will still be small farms in the future?
- How often do people in your country eat out? Why?
- What are some cons of eating in restaurants? Why?
- Do you think it is possible that in the future no one will cook at home? Why/why not?
- Is the food people eat on special occasions the same or different from everyday food?
- Is food generally important in your country during celebrations? Why/why not?
- Do you think some people waste money on too much food for special occasions? Why/why not?
- What’s the main difference between the way food is produced now and was produced in the past?
- Is there any connection between climate change and food production? If so, what?
- How will science and technology change the way food is produced in the future?
- a story from your childhood you remember well

Vocab :

1. a fairy tale (n.) = a traditional children’s story in which magic things happen

2. moving /ˈmuːvɪŋ/ (adj.) = making you feel emotional

3. a fantasy story /ˈfæntəsi/ (n.) = a story that shows a lot of imagination and is very different from real life

4. knights and dragons /naɪts/ /ˈdræɡənz/ (phr.) = a soldier who wore a suit of armour and rode a horse, and large imaginary creatures in old stories that had wings and a long pointed tail and breathed out fire

5. aliens and robots /ˈeɪliənz/ /ˈrəʊbɒts/ (phr.) = creatures from a planet other than Earth and machines that can do work by themselves, often work that humans do

6. a far-fetched scenario /ˌfɑː(r) ˈfetʃt səˈnɑːriəʊ/ (phr.) = a situation difficult to believe because it is very unlikely

7. a poignant chronicle of /ˈpɔɪnjənt ˈkrɒnɪk(ə)l/ (phr.) = a moving and sad description of a sequence of events

8. a compelling tale /kəmˈpelɪŋ ˈteɪl/ (phr.) = a powerful story that keeps you interested

9. to twiddle your thumbs /ˈtwɪd(ə)l/ (phr. ) = to feel bored, with nothing to do

10. to cut a long story short (phr.) = to tell sth briefly

11. everything turned out all right in the end (phr.) = everything finished well

12. I lived to tell the well (phr.) = I survived the events

Part 3. :
- What kinds of stories do children like? Why?
- What can children learn from stories? Why?
- Do all children’s stories need a happy ending? Why/why not?
- Do all children’s stories need to be educational? Why/why not?
- Why are there always good characters and bad characters in stories?
- Does a story need to be true to be good? Why/why not?
- How real should characters in novels be?
- Do young people and older people like the same type of characters? Why/why not?
- Why do we always remember some stories from our childhood?
- How are stories passed on today compared with the past? Why?
- Why isn’t traditional storytelling popular today?
- Are stories an important part of culture? Why/why not?
- How will stories be told in the future? Why?
- a talk/speech you heard/you gave

Vocab :

1. to cut the mustard /ˈmʌstə(r)d/ (phr.) = to reach the expected or necessary standard

2. a famous quote /kwəʊt/ (phr.) = famous words that sb else has said or written

3. short and sweet (phr.) = not too long or complicated

4. passionate /ˈpæʃ(ə)nət/ (adj.) = enthusiastic, showing strong beliefs

5. a conference /ˈkɒnf(ə)rəns/ (n.) = a large meeting

6. to come away with a wealth of ideas (phr.) = to express a lot of ideas suddenly, in a way that shock people

7. a speaker (n.) = a person giving a speech/talk

8. a delegate /ˈdeləɡət/ (n.) = sb who is chosen to represent a group of other people at a meeting

9. an audience /ˈɔːdiəns/ (n.) = a group of people who have come to a place to hear a speck/talk

10. to answer questions off the cuff (phr.) = to answer questions without planning or thinking about it first

11. to cater for all sorts of participants (phr.) = to provide everyone with everything they want or need

12. to bounce ideas off one another (phr.) = to discuss with one another

13. sb knows his/her stuff (phr.) = sb is very knowledgeable about their topic

14. to wing it (phr.) = to so sth without preparation or plans

15. to sit through sth (phr.) = to stay until the end of sth, especially if you are not enjoying it

16. to nod off (v.) = to go to sleep, especially when you do not intend to

17. to play it by ear (phr.) = to decide what to do as a situation develops rather than planning what you will do before you start

18. to ramble on for ages /ˈræmb(ə)l/ (phr.) = to talk about sth for a long time in a way that is boring, annoying or confusing

Part 3. :
- What kinds of speeches are there common in your country? Why?
- Who can be a good speaker? What skills do they need? Why?
- How to overcome stage fright?
- What is the ideal duration of a talk/speech? Why?
- What can help make a speech more interesting? Why?
- Whom would you consider the most gifted public speaker?
- Do you study public speaking when you are at school in your country? Why/why not?
- Is it easy to make a speech? Why/why not?
- How does technology affect the way we give speeches today?
- Do you think there will be no need for public speaking in the future? Why/why not?
- Where would people give speeches most often in the past in your country? Why?
- a time when you were very busy

Vocab :

1. to run errands /ˈerəndz/ (phr.) = to do small jobs that involve going to collect or deliver sth

2. to be pressed for time (phr.) = to be in a hurry

3. to live and breathe sth (phr.) = to be very enthusiastic about a particular activity and spend all the time you can doing it or talking about it

4. to throw yourself into sth (phr.) = to give all your energy or attention to doing sth

5. there’s no stopping sb (phr.) = it is impossible to prevent sb from doing sth

6. to get carried away (phr.) = to become so excited or involved in sth that you lose control of your feelings or behaviour

7. life’s too short (phr.) = you should not waste time doing things that are not important

8. to be up to your eyes in sth (phr.) = to have a very large amount of sth to do or deal with

9. to be on the go (phr.) = very busy and active

10. a frantic schedule /ˈfræntɪk ˈʃedjuːl/ (phr.) = an urgent plan of activities or events

Part 3. :
- What things do people generally need to do every day? Why?
- Is it good to have a daily routine? Why/why not?
- What are some disadvantages of having a daily routine?
- Why do you think some people dislike making any changes in their daily routine?
- How do people usually relax?
- Is it important to have some quiet time from time to time? Why/why not?
- Can physical activity be a good way to relax? Why/why not?
- Has the time for leisure activity been recently reduced? Why/why not?
- Are people in your country usually good at managing their time? Why/why not?
- How can people manage their time better? In what ways?
- Why are some people better at managing their time than others? What does it depend on?
- How has technology influenced the way people manage time? Why?
- Are students in your country taught some ways to manage their studying time better? Why/why not?
- Do you think time management classes would be useful to students? Why/why not?
- a traditional festival/event in your country

Vocab :

1. auspicious /ɔːˈspɪʃəs/ (adj.) = showing signs that suggest that sth is likely to be successful

2. a celebration /ˌseləˈbreɪʃ(ə)n/ (n.) = a party or special event at which you celebrate sth

3. to rejoice at /rɪˈdʒɔɪs/ (v.) = to fell very happy about sth, to celebrate sth in a happy way

4. to parade about the streets /pəˈreɪd/ (phr.) = to walk as part of an organized group in order to celebrate sth

5. a time of renewal /rɪˈnjuːəl/ (phr.) = a time of a new beginning

6. a colourful spectacle /ˈspektək(ə)l/ (phr.) = an unusual and exciting event

7. flamboyant /flæmˈbɔɪənt/ (adj.) = extremely colourful and exaggerated

8. raucous /ˈrɔːkəs/ (adj.) = very noisy

9. to commemorate /kəˈmeməreɪt/ (v.) = to respect and remember officially

10. to set off fireworks (phr.)

11. a fireworks display /dɪˈspleɪ/ (phr.) = a fireworks show

12. a public event (n.) = an event available for people in general

13. to ring in the New Year (phr.) = to ring bells to celebrate the beginning of a new year

14. a New Year’s resolution /ˌrezəˈluːʃ(ə)n/ (n.) = a decision that you make on the first day of the year about the things that you intend to do or stop doing during that year

15. to go overboard (phr.) = to do more than is necessary

16. to have a blast /blɑːst/ (phr.) = to have an enjoyable experience

17. to enjoy oneself immensely /ɪˈmensli/ (phr.) = to enjoy oneself a lot

Part 3. :
- How are most festivals in your country different from Western ones?
- Why do you think so many people celebrate Western festivals these days?
- Does your country have any traditional food?
- Does your country have any traditional dresses?
- Do you think young people are still interested in traditional things? Why/why not?
- Are traditions important in a culture? Why/why not?
- What traditions have already disappeared from your culture? Why?
- What could be done to preserve traditions?
- Do you think that the fact that people travel more these days contributes to fewer traditions? Why/why not?
- Can one culture share traditions with another one? Why/why not?
- Should all traditions change over time? Why/why not?
- Do you see any activities present in your culture now that might become new traditions in the future?
- a TV/radio programme you watch/listen to regularly/that made you laugh/you find interesting/something interesting you learnt from TV/internet

Vocab :

1. educational /ˌedjʊˈkeɪʃ(ə)nəl/ (adj.) = giving people useful knowledge

2. entertaining /ˌentə(r)ˈteɪnɪŋ/ (adj.) = enjoyable and fun

3. broadcast by /ˈbrɔːdˌkɑːst/ (which channel) (v.) = to be sent out by TV or radio for the public to watch/listen to

4. a sitcom /ˈsɪtkɒm/ (n.) = a TV or radio series about a particular group of characters who deal with situations in a humorous way

5. to aim at /eɪm/ (v.) = to want people to listen to it or watch it

6. hilarious /hɪˈleəriəs/ (adj.) = extremely funny

7. inspirational /ˌɪnspəˈreɪʃ(ə)n(ə)l/ (adj.) = giving you the enthusiasm to do or create sth

8. off the air (phr.) = no longer broadcasting on radio or TV

9. peak time (n.) = the prime time TV viewing hours

10. ratings /ˈreɪtɪŋz/ (n.) = the number of people who watch or listen to a particular TV or radio programme

11. to be glued to (v.) = to be looking at sth and not paying attention to anything else

12. a reality show (n.) = a show that does not use professional actors but shows real events and situations involving ordinary people

13. a quiz show (n.) = a show which is a competition for people to answer questions

14. to tune in to a radio station (phr.) = to listen to a particular radio station

15. an announcer /əˈnaʊnsə(r)/ (n.) = sb whose job is to give information about television or radio programmes in between other programmes

16. to host a show /həʊst/ (phr.) = to introduce and talk to the people taking part in a television or radio programme

17. to phone-in (v.) = to telephone a radio or television programme with a question or comment

18. at your fingertips (phr.) = if you have a subject at your fingertips, you have a thorough knowledge of it and can give useful information to others whenever they ask for it

19. a reliable source (phr.) = a true material

20. to decipher between a fact and an opinion /dɪˈsaɪfə(r)/ (phr.) = to understand the difference between a fact and an opinion

21. a hacker /ˈhækə(r)/ (n.) = sb who uses a computer to connect to other people’s computers secretly and often illegally, so that they can find or change information

22. sth caught my eye (phr.) = sth got my attention

23. a groundbreaking TV /ˈɡraʊn(d)ˌbreɪkɪŋ/ (phr.) = TV that uses new methods

24. an episode /ˈepɪsəʊd/ (n.) = a part of a television or radio story that is broadcast separately and forms one of a series

25. cable TV /ˈkeɪb(ə)l/ (n.) = a system for broadcasting television programmes in which signals are sent through underground wires

26. constant adverts (phr.) = advertisements that always appear

27. the sole purpose is to /səʊl/ (phr.) = the only purpose it to

28. a jokester (n.) = a person fond of making or telling jokes

29. to burble away in the background /ˈbɜː(r)b(ə)l/ (phr.) = to talk fast about sth for a long time, especially in a way that annoys people because they cannot understand what you are saying

30. sth has evolved down the ages /ɪˈvɒlvd/ (phr.) = sth has changed over the years

31. a source of entertainment (phr.) = providing entertainment to people

32. to be aired on TV /eə(r)d/ (phr.) = to be broadcast

33. a couch potato /kaʊtʃ/ (n.) = sb who spends a lot of time sitting at home watching TV

34. it gets you hooked /hʊkt/ (phr.) = it attracts you

35. even if you miss an episode it’s easy to catch up (phr.)

Part 3. :
- What kinds of things make children laugh? Why?
- Is it easier for children to laugh than it is for adults? Why?
- Is humour during lessons important? Why/why not?
- Is there any connection between laughter and health?
- Why do you think some people can tell great jokes while others cannot? What does it depend on?
- Is sense of humour important in a relationship? Why/why not?
- How can people from different countries understand each others’ sense of humour?
- Can foreign comedy be understood and appreciated in your country?
- Can humour be helpful in politics? How?
- Should world leaders study jokes and humour from other countries? Why/why not?
- Does your country have ‘black humour’? If so, what are its main themes?
- Is radio still popular in your country? Why/why not?
- What types of programmes are more suitable for the radio? Why?
- What kind of a person could make a good radio presenter? Why?
- Do you have a national radio station in your country? What is it?
- Who do you think listens to the radio more, young people or older people? Why?
- How can a local radio station serve its community?
- Are there a lot of advertisements on the radio today? Why/why not?
- Are radio advertisements effective? Why/why not?
- How did the invention of radio change people’s lives?
- Do you think that listeners should pay to be able to listen to the radio? Why/why not?
- Do you think in the future the radio might be replaced by other technological forms? Why/why not?
- What kinds of TV programmes are most popular in your country? Why?
- Do people prefer to watch films at home or go to the cinema? Why?
- What are some advantages of watching a film in the cinema?
- What advantages can watching TV bring to people who live alone? Why?
- Does TV always waste time? Why/why not?
- Is the youngsters’ behaviour often influenced by TV? If so, in a positive or negative way? Why?
- Is it good or bad to have such a broad variety of channels? Why?
- Are most TV channels financed by the government or through advertising? Which way do you think is better? Why?
- Do you think TV might be replaced by the newest media in the future? Why/why not?
- What kinds of TV programmes do people like to watch? Why?
- Do you think that people of different ages enjoy the same or different types of programmes? Why?
- Are there any educational programmes available on TV?
- Should all TV programmes be educational? Why/why not?
- What types of entertainment are popular in your country? Why?
- Is there a lot of advertising on TV in your country? Why/why not?
- Do most people like to see advertisements on TV? Why/why not?
- Are there any regulations on TV adverts in your country? Why/why not?
- Do you have access to international channels in your country?
- Why do you think there are so many new TV channels in the world? Do we need them all?
- What’s the purpose of 24-hour news channels?
- Can international programmes contribute to global peace? How?
- Which is better, watching TV or listening to the radio? Why?
- Are there any regulations in your country on what can be shown on TV? Why/why not? Should there be?
- Can radio and TV help us learn anything? If so, what? If not, why not?
- What are the main cons of using TV and radio for educational reasons?
- Do you think other media might replace TV and radio in the future? Why/why not?
- What are some latest developments in broadcasting in your country?
- How are programmes generally founded?
- What makes a TV or radio programme high-quality?
- How much time do people in your country spend watching television? Why?
- What are the most popular TV programmes today? Why?
- Has television in your country changed recently? If so, how?
- What is the general quality of TV programmes in your country?
- Do many people prefer to watch foreign TV? Why?
- Can television be educational? How?
- What are some disadvantages of using TV to educate children?
- Is there anything adults can learn from different TV programmes? If so, what?
- What kind of impact does television have on society? Why?
- Is satellite TV going to replace local TV? Why/why not?
- Does TV determine how we understand the world today? Why/why not?
- How can the Internet be used by students in their learning process?
- Why do you think so many students prefer to use the Internet to books?
- Do you think there is a chance that the Internet might replace libraries in the future? Why/why not?
- Is social networking on the Internet common in your country? Why/why not?
- Which online social networking sites are popular in your country? Why?
- How does widespread online social networking affect friendship? Why?
- Do you think people socialize online because they like it or because they must keep up with technological advances? Why?
- Do you think that business people might use the Internet for their dealings more in the future? Why/why not?
- Has the Internet improved people’s quality of life? Why/why not? If so, how?
- Do you think society can benefit from all the citizens using the Internet? Why/why not? How?
- Are we becoming too dependent on the Internet? Why/why not?
- a useful app

Vocab :

1. to popularise sth /ˈpɒpjʊləraɪz/ (v.) = to make sth popular with many people

2. a dependency on sth /dɪˈpendənsi/ (n.) = addiction to sth

3. social networking /ˌsəʊʃəl ˈnetwɜː(r)kɪŋ/ (n.) = the creation and sharing of information and ideas in online communities accessed via mobile and web-based technologies

4. to interact with /ˌɪntərˈækt/ (v.) = to communicate with

5. to have a resurgence in popularity /rɪˈsɜː(r)dʒ(ə)ns/ (phr.) = to have an increase in popularity

6. instant messaging (n.) = a kind of e-mail where both people are online at the same time

7. a chat room (n.) = an online conversation between a group of people on topics chosen by them

8. an ability to send files as attachments /əˈtætʃmənts/ (phr.) = files you send at the same time as e-mail messages

9. downloading and uploading times (phr.) = the amount of time it takes to download and upload a file

10. to screen out /skriːn/ (v.) = to prevent from reaching you

Part 3. :
- What technological devices do people in your country use on a daily basis? Why?
- Do you think technology has made our lives easier? Why/why not?
- Does technology always save time? Why/why not?
- What are the biggest disadvantages of technology?
- Do people depend too much on technology? Why/why not?
- For whom is it easier to keep up with the technological changes, young people or older people? Why?
- Why do you think some people always need to have the latest technological gadgets?
- Do we need so many technological advances?
- Is it possible to always keep up with changes in technology? Why/why not?
- How does technology influence people’s relationships? Why?
- Can we believe everything we see on the Internet? Why/why not?
- How can people filter the information from the Internet?
- What are some negative influences technology has on cultures?
- a vehicle you would like to own

Vocab :

1. a hybrid car /ˈhaɪbrɪd/ (n.) = a car that uses two or more kinds of power, for example a car that can run using either petrol or electricity

2. fuel consumption /ˈfjuːəl kənˈsʌmpʃ(ə)n/ (n.) = the amount of fuel a vehicle uses

3. a gas guzzler /ˈɡæs ˌɡʌzlə(r)/ (n.) = a car that is expensive to drive because it uses a lot of petrol

4. a manual /automatic gearbox /ˈɡɪə(r)ˌbɒks/ (n.)

5. to rev the engine /rev/ (phr.) = to press the accelerator with your foot when the vehicle is not moving in order to make the engine operate faster

6. a fender-bender (n.) = a minor accident in which vehicles are slightly damaged

7. to get a ticket (phr.) = to be fined

8. a speed trap (n.) = a place on a road where the police secretly measure how fast people are driving

Part 3. :
- Do many people in your country buy second-hand cars? Why/why not?
- How are cars usually advertised?
- Why do you think so many people want to have their own car?
- Is a car a symbol of status?
- What advantages does using public transport have?
- What disadvantages does using public transport have?
- Should governments promote public transport system? Why/why not?
- How can governments improve public transport system?
- Do you think big cities should have more highways? Why/why not?
- Should motorways have tollgates? Why/why not?
- How do you see your road system in the future? Why?
- What kinds of vehicles are common where you live? Why?
- How is today’s transport of passengers different from the one in the past? Why?
- Do you think passenger transport might change in the future? How?
- Is there a lot of traffic in your country? Why/why not?
- What causes heavy traffic?
- How can heavy traffic be reduced?
- Do you think car owners should contribute to the cost of building new roads? Why/why not?
- What’s more important to the benefit of the society, more roads or railroads? Why?
- Are there any regulations banning roads from being built in scenic areas? Why/why not? Should there be?
- a website you often visit

Vocab :

1. to check someone’ profile /ˈprəʊfaɪl/ (phr.) = to look at someone’s personal details that they post on a social media website or app

2. to maintain my social network /meɪnˈteɪn/ (phr.) = to keep connections with people via social media

3. Internet is a goldmine /ˈɡəʊldˌmaɪn/ (phr.) = Internet is a source of valuable information and resources

4. the age of information explosion /ɪkˈspləʊʒ(ə)n/ (phr.) = times when access to information is easy

5. provides a range of news from global updates to entertainment and sport news (phr.)

6. content is updated (phr.)

7. fact-based (adj.) = reliable as based on facts

8. the comment column /ˈkɒment ˈkɒləm/ (n.) = a part of a website where users can leave comments and opinions

9. identity theft /aɪˈdentɪti θeft/ (n.) = stealing information about someone that makes it possible to use their bank account or credit card

10. virtual reality /ˈvɜː(r)tʃʊəl riˈæləti/ (n.) = images and sounds that are produced by a computer and connected equipment to make the user feel as if they are in real three-dimensional space

11. information overload (n.)/ infobesity (n.) = a situation in which you get more information than you can deal with at one time and become tired and confused

12. a phenomenally successful website /fəˈnɒmɪn(ə)li/ (phr.) = an extremely successful website

13. a web browser /ˈbraʊzə(r)/ (n.) = a software programme that is used for finding and looking at pages on the Internet

14. a registered user /ˈredʒɪstə(r)d ˈjuːzə(r)/ (n.) = a user that has created an account to access a particular website

15. to rate sth /reɪt/ (v.) = to consider that sth has a particular quality

16. to express yourself openly (phr.) = to not be afraid to express one’s opinions

17. to upload pictures /ˈʌpˌləʊd/ (phr.) = to send pictures from your computer to a larger system using the Internet

18. a bulletin board /ˈbʊlətɪn bɔː(r)d/ (n.) = a place on a computer system or on the Internet where you can leave messages and read messages from other people

19. a 24-hour Internet café (n.) = a place where you can use the Internet for a fee all day long

20. a wireless Internet set up (n.) = an Internet connection that does not need a cable

21. a huge fad /fæd/ (phr.) = sth that is very popular or fashionable for only a short time

22. to boost communication /buːst/ (phr.) = to improve communication

23. limitless entertainment on the web (phr.) = entertainment accessible without limits online

24. a search engine (n.) = a computer program used for searching for information on the Internet

25. to be logged on (v.) = to be using a computer system

Part 3. :
- What are some popular websites in your country? Why?
- Is the information you find online always reliable? Why?
- Do many people in your country play computer games online? Why/why not?
- Can we learn anything from playing online games? If so, what?
- What are main drawbacks of playing online computer games?
- Is online shopping popular in your country? Why/why not?
- Is online shopping safe? Why/why not?
- What are some pros of shopping online?
- Can the Internet help people with their studies? Why/why not? How?
- Does the Internet make people lazier in terms of learning things nowadays? Why/why not?
- Do we still need printed newspapers today?
- Do you think libraries might disappear soon? Why/why not?
- Do you think the Internet can be seen as the most significant invention of the last fifty years? Why/why not?
- In what ways does the Internet influence society?
- Can the Internet contribute to greater co-operation between countries? Why/why not? How?
- How has human communication been changed by the Internet? Why?
- an advertisement that made you buy something/you remember well

Vocab :

1. a time filler (n.) = sth that fills free time well

2. manipulated /məˈnɪpjʊleɪtɪd/ (adj.) = influenced by sth/sb

3. persuasive /pə(r)ˈsweɪsɪv/ (adj.) = convincing

4. a flyer /ˈflaɪə(r)/ (n.) = a sheet of printed information advertising sth

5. a trailer /ˈtreɪlə(r)/ (n.) = a brief excerpt from a film, TV or radio programme which is used to advertise sth

6. a sky-writing (n.) = words written in the sky using smoke from a plane

7. a sandwich board (n.) = an advertising poster hung at the back and front of a person who then walks around a busy area

8. to plug sth (v.) = to advertise sth

9. misleading /mɪsˈliːdɪŋ/ (adj.) = intended to make sb believe sth that is incorrect or not true

10. blatant brainwashing /ˈbleɪt(ə)nt ˈbreɪnˌwɒʃɪŋ/ (phr.) = shamelessly making sb adopt radically different beliefs by using systematic and often forcible pressure

11. tantalizingly appealing /ˈtæntəˌlaɪzɪŋli əˈpiːlɪŋ/ (phr.) = temptingly attractive

12. to bombard sb with sth /bɒmˈbɑː(r)d/ (v.) = to give sb so much information that it is difficult for them to deal with it all

13. charity ads /ˈtʃærəti ˈæds/ (n.) = advertisements encouraging people to donate money to those in need

14. flawless /ˈflɔːləs/ (adj.) = without any mistakes

15. an icon effect /ˈaɪkɒn ɪˈfekt/ (n.) = the influence famous people have on the public

16. pop-up advertising windows (phr.) = windows advertising variety of products, appearing suddenly on a computer screen when you are looking at the Internet

17. the advertising slot /slɒt/ (n.) = a time during programmes when it is arranged that an adverts will appear

18. be intensively advertised /ɪnˈtensɪvli/ (phr.) = be advertised very often and in many places

19. an advertising campaign /kæmˈpeɪn/ (n.) = a series of things such as television advertisements or posters that try to persuade people to buy a product

20. prime time (n.) = the most popular time for watching television, which is in the middle of the evening

21. hackneyed subjects /ˈhæknid/ (phr.) = subjects which have been used so often that they no longer seem interesting or original

22. media hype/ˈmiːdiə haɪp/ (n.) = the use of a lot of adverts and other publicity to influence or interest people

23. sponsorship /ˈspɒnsə(r)ʃɪp/ (n.) = money given to an organization to help to pay for sth

24. a commercial /kəˈmɜː(r)ʃ(ə)l/ (n.) = an advertisement on television or radio

25. a billboard /ˈbɪlˌbɔː(r)d/ (n.) = a large board for advertisements in an outside public place

26. a jingle /ˈdʒɪŋɡ(ə)l/ (n.) = a short phrase, usually with music, that is easy to remember, used for advertising sth on the radio or TV

27. ubiquitous /juːˈbɪkwɪtəs/ (adj.) = present everywhere

28. unavoidable /ˌʌnəˈvɔɪdəb(ə)l/ (adj.) = impossible to stop from happening

29. sth has far-reaching effects (phr.) = sth is affecting a lot of people

30. a ripple effect /ˈrɪp(ə)l/ (n.) = a situation in which one thing causes a series of other things to happen

Part 3. :
- What are the most popular types of advertising in your country? Why?
- Is music an important part of an advert? Why/why not?
- Why do you think some people get annoyed with adverts?
- What do you think is the general purpose of advertising?
- Are people’s buying behaviours affected by advertising in any way?
- What features should a good advert have? Why?
- How have advertisements changed in the past ten years?
- Do you think that advertisements should not be directed at children? Why/why not?
- Can advertising be used to convey a public health message? If so, how?
- Do you enjoy living in consumer society? Why/why not?
- Has the life of an individual been improved due to consumerism? Why/why not?
- How does consumerism affect country’s economy (both positively and negatively)?
- How does consumerism affect global economy?
- an ambition you have but not achieved yet

Vocab :

1. a bucket list /ˈbʌkɪt ˌlɪst/ (n.) = a lift of things you want to do before you reach a certain age, or before you die

2. persistence /pə(r)ˈsɪstəns/ (n.) = the attitude or behaviour of sb who continues to do sth in a determined way

3. to fulfil one’s potential (phr.) = to reach someone’s abilities

4. to have a yearning for sth /ˈjɜː(r)nɪŋ/ (phr.) = to want sth very much

5. to have a craving for sth /ˈkreɪvɪŋ/ (phr.) = to have a very strong feeling of wanting sth

6. aspiration /ˌæspɪˈreɪʃ(ə)n/ (n.) = sth that you want to achieve

7. an intent /ɪnˈtent/ (n.) = the intention to do sth

8. to pull sth off (v.) = to succeed in doing sth that is difficult

9. to score /skɔː(r)/ (v.) = to succeed in doing sth

10. to accomplish /əˈkʌmplɪʃ/ (v.) = to succeed in doing sth

11. to dream up (v.) = to think of a new idea or plan, especially one that is silly or unusual

12. My plan is to + do sth (phr.) = I intend to do

13. power-hungry (adj.) = having a strong desire for power

14. a go-getter /ˌɡəʊ ˈɡetə(r)/ (n.) = sb who is determined to succeed and who works hard to achieve this

15. zealous /ˈzeləs/ (adj.) = full of great energy, effort and enthusiasm

16. motivated /ˈməʊtɪˌveɪtɪd/ (adj.) = enthusiastic and determined to achieve success

17. slothful /ˈsləʊθf(ə)l/ (adj.) = lazy

18. lax /læks/ (adj.) = not paying enough attention to rules, or not caring enough about quality or safety

Part 3. :
- What are some common ambitions children have? Why?
- How do our ambitions change when we grow up? Why?
- Is it important for children to have ambitions? Why/why not?
- Why are some people too ambitious?
- Is it good for children to be too ambitious? Why/why not?
- Is ambition useful at work? Why/why not?
- Why are some people more ambitious at work than others?
- What qualities, apart from ambition, do people need to become successful at work? Why?
- What kinds of problems may people face when they are too ambitious at work?
- What is your definition of ambition? Why?
- What can people gain from having high aspirations? Why?
- Is everyone born ambitious? Why/why not?
- Do you think being ambitious is an admirable quality? Why/why not?
- How does society reward ambitious people? Why?
- How do people with aspirations contribute to the world?
- an important letter/email/message you received/sent

Vocab :

1. un-environmentally friendly (adj.) = designed to harm the natural environment

2. what’s written can’t be undone (phr.) = written word stands as proof forever

3. ink traces /ɪŋk ˈtreɪsɪz/ (n.) = signs of ink

4. to sense sth through the lines (phr.) = to get the feeling of sth from someone’s written words

5. junk mail /dʒʌŋk/ (n.) = advertising and other information sent to you by post, email, or fax, although you did not ask for it and do not want it

6. to read between the lines (phr.) = to guess sth that is not expressed directly

7. at the push of a button (phr.) = easily accessible

8. e-mail fraud /frɔːd/ (n.) = the crime of obtaining money from sb by tricking them via emails

9. e-mail spamming /ˈspæmɪŋ/ (n.) = the practice of sending emails to large numbers of people on the Internet, especially when these are not wanted

10. messy handwriting (phr.) = handwriting difficult to read

11. to avoid typos /ˈtaɪpəʊz/ (phr.) = to avoid small mistakes in a printed document

12. to be inundated with sth /ˈɪnʌndeɪtɪd/ (adj.) = to be sent much more of sth than someone can easily deal with

13. never-ending stream of emails (phr.) = continuous emails

14. to respond to sth promptly /ˈprɒmptli/ (phr.) = to respond to sth immediately

15. a jotter /ˈdʒɒtə(r)/ (n.) = a small book in which you write notes

16. to write with a stylus /ˈstaɪləs/ (phr.) = to write using an instrument used for marking a computer screen

17. a cyber jotter /saɪbə(r)/ (n.) = a small online notebook in which you write notes

18. old school (adj.) = traditional or typical of the early style of sth

19. to become a thing of the past (phr.) = to become old-fashioned

20. legible /ˈledʒəb(ə)l/ (adj.) = able to be read

21. illegible /ɪˈledʒəb(ə)l/ (adj.) = difficult or impossible to read

22. my hand cramps easily /kræmps/ (phr.) = I have pain in my hand caused by writing for a long time

Part 3. :
- How do people in your country usually communicate? Why?
- Can you think of any problems that short forms of communication (e.g. sms, emails) might cause?
- Do young people communicate in the same way as older people? Why/why not?
- Is information from the Internet always accurate?
- Can the information from the Internet replace teachers in the future? Why/why not?
- How did people communicate in the past?
- When is it important to speak or write formally? Why?
- How is formal communication different from the informal one?
- In what situations in life are good communication skills extremely important? Why?
- Which jobs require effective communication skills?
- Are good communication skills a talent we are born with or can we learn how to communicate better? Why?
- Could you think of any situations where communication skills would be more important than what’s being said?
- Do people still write letters today? Why/why not?
- What types of letters do we receive in this day and age?
- What things are better to be written about? Why?
- What things are better to be said over the phone? Why?
- Do you think that the art of writing letters might completely disappear in the future? Why?
- How to make communication powerful? Why?
- What makes a good communicator? Why?
- What is good about communicating face to face? Why?
- What is more powerful, spoken or written word? Why?
- What’s the most popular way of communicating today? Why?
- Can pictures help communication? If so, how?
- Will technology influence the way people communicate in the future? If so, how? Why/why not?
- Do you think it is possible for the world to use the same language in the future? Why/why not?
- How does it feel to receive a handwritten letter?
- Are letters still important in business world today?
- What are letter-writing disadvantages?
- What kinds of skills could be useful in writing business correspondence?
- Are letters good historical records?
- What historical information can letters provide?
- How can historians use written correspondence?
- Can current written correspondence be helpful in the future? How?
- an interesting article you read

Vocab :

1. critical thinking (n.) = the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement

2. to read extensively /ɪkˈstensɪvli/ (phr.) = to read a lot

3. to arouse someone’s desire to /əˈraʊz/ (phr.) = to cause sb’s enthusiasm

4. well-worn themes /θiːmz/ (phr.) = topics used many times

5. a write-up (n.) = an article in a newspaper or magazine that gives the writer’s opinion about sth such as a new book, play or film

6. a feature /ˈfiːtʃə(r)/ (n.) = a newspaper or magazine article that concentrates on a particular subject

7. a piece /piːs/ (n.) = an article

8. absorbing /əbˈzɔː(r)bɪŋ/ (adj.) = so entertaining that you give it all your attention

9. stimulating /ˈstɪmjʊˌleɪtɪŋ/ (adj.) = making you feel interested

10. unputdownable (adj.) = so interesting or exciting that you do not want to stop reading it

Part 3. :
- Are there a lot of libraries in your country? Why/why not?
- What types of libraries are there in your country?
- Do people in your country generally like to visit libraries? Why/why not?
- What do people usually do in libraries? Why?
- What is a good library? Why?
- Are libraries in your country free? Why/why not?
- Do many people like to read in your country? Why/why not?
- How is reading taught in schools in your country? Why?
- Do people need reading skills today? Why/why not?
- How do literate people influence societies?
- What’s the most powerful printed media you’ve seen?
- Do you think electronic communication today is too fast? Why/why not?
- What are some disadvantages of fast communication?
- In the future, which fields of communication do you see develop even more? Why?
- an object you like a lot/an old object your family has kept for many years/something you borrowed/lent/something you can’t live without (not a phone or a computer)

Vocab :

1. brand new (adj.) = extremely new

2. cutting-edge (adj.) = extremely modern and advanced

3. bits and pieces (phr.) = small individual things

4. odds and ends (phr.) = small things that are all different and not valuable or important

5. innovative /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ (adj.) = new, original and advanced

6. a device /dɪˈvaɪs/ (n.) = a machine or piece of equipment that does a particular thing

7. up-to-date (adj.) = modern

8. second-hand (adj.) = owned or used by someone else before you

9. as good as new (phr.) = in almost the same good condition as before being damaged or injured

10. a genuine antique /ˈdʒenjuɪn ænˈtiːk/ (phr.) = an old object such as a piece of furniture or jewellery that is valuable because it is rare, beautiful and real

11. fully reconditioned /ˌriːkənˈdɪʃ(ə)nd/ (adj.) = completely repaired

12. packaging /ˈpækɪdʒɪŋ/ (n.) = the boxes, bottles, plastic etc used for wrapping products so that they can be sold

Part 3. :
- Why do you think some people like to keep old things?
- Should historical buildings be kept or taken down? Why?
- Do you think that objects made in the past had better quality than today? Why/why not?
- Do people in your country enjoy visiting museums? Why/why not?
- What types of museums are there in your country?
- Is a visit to a museum the best way to learn about history? Why/why not?
- What should museums do to attract more people? Why?
- Should everyone know their country’s history? Why/why not?
- What are the benefits of knowing one’s history?
- Are archaeological discoveries important today? Why/why not?
- What will future generations remember about our era? Why?
- What do people in your country usually borrow from their neighbours?
- What things do people prefer to borrow than buy? Why?
- Is it a good idea to borrow money? Why/why not?
- What problems might occur when we borrow things to people?
- What can we do when something we borrowed has not been returned on time? Why?
- How do people ask to have their things returned?
- Why is it difficult to ask for something to be given back?
- Do people in your country often share the ownership of something? If so, what?
- Do many people use public bikes in your country? Why/why not?
- Why are some people not willing to share the ownership or their cars or houses with others, even family members?
- Do you think in the future there might be more need for shared ownership? Why/why not?
- What are the most common things people can’t live without? Why?
- Why do you think children often get attached to one particular toy?
- Who is more into recent technology, youngsters or elders? Why?
- Why do you think some people always want to buy latest technological gizmos?
- Is it easy to throw away old things? Why/why not?
- Why do you think some people find it hard to get rid of old things?
- Is your society obsessed with buying new things? Why?
- Do you think media affect our shopping decisions? Why/why not?
- Is there enough choice of products?
- Is a wide choice of products necessary? Why/why not?
- Why do people often buy things they do not really need?
- Are the same things important to contemporary people as were to our predecessors? Why/why not?
- How important is family in your culture?
- Has family been more or less important lately?
- Do you think that at different stages in life we see different things as most important? Why/why not?
- Is society too materialistic these days? Why/why not?
- What types of groups can young people belong to in your country?
- Why do you think people enjoy belonging to groups?
- Do men and women prefer the same types of groups? Why/why not?
- Do many people in your country socialize online? Why/why not?
- Is it important to socialize online in modern society? Why/why not?
- Has technology helped us be a part of a social group? Why/why not? If so, how?
- Do you think that people contact each other face to face much less these days due to technology? Why/why not?
- What makes teamwork successful? Why?
- What kind of a person can be a good team player?
- Do you think that in order to become successful one needs to be able to work in a team well? Why/why not?
- What kind of a team in better, a diverse one or the one where members bring different views in? Why?
- What kind of qualities does a good team leader need? Why?
- something electronic you often use/you bought for your home/a time when you had a problem with a piece of equipment/a piece of equipment which you find useful

Vocab :

1. to cross that bridge when one comes to it (phr.) = to deal with a problem when and if it arises

2. a high-tech gizmo /ˈɡɪzməʊ/ (phr.) = a small piece of equipment, especially one whose name you do not know

3. a brand /brænd/ (n.) = a product that has its own name and is made by one particular company

4. handy /ˈhændi/ (adj.) = useful

5. a feature /ˈfiːtʃə(r)/ (n.) = an important aspect of sth

6. on its last legs (phr.) = old, in bad condition and not likely to continue working

7. supersonic /ˌsuːpə(r)ˈsɒnɪk/ (adj.) = faster than the speed of sound

8. to be mechanised /ˈmekənaɪzd/ (adj.) = using machines

9. high-definition (adj.) = providing images that show a lot of detail very clearly

10. to realise the untapped potential of sth /ʌnˈtæpt/ (phr.) = to understand the unused possibilities of sth

11. essential (adj.) = completely necessary

12. a predicament /priˈdɪkəmənt/ (n.) = a difficult situation that is not easy to get out of

13. to smash sth up (v.) = to destroy sth completely by violently breaking it into many pieces

14. to tear sth to bits /teə(r)/ (phr.) = to damage sth completely

15. to fall to bits (phr.) = to be in a very bad condition because of being old or badly made

16. a technophile (n.) = an enthusiast of technology

17. a portable device /ˈpɔː(r)təb(ə)l/ (phr.) = a device easy to carry

18. in mint condition (phr.) = in new or perfect condition

19. to be subjected to wear and tear (phr.) = to undergo changes and damage that normally happen when sth is being used

20. to lag behind /læɡ/ (v.) = to not be as successful or advanced as sth else

21. technical jargon /ˈteknɪk(ə)l ˈdʒɑː(r)ɡən/ (phr.) = special words and phrases that are only understood by people who work in technology

22. to think sth through (v.) = to consider the facts about sth in an organized and thorough way

23. a storm in a teacup (phr.) = a lot of trouble about sth that is not important

24. to take the bull by the horns (phr.) = to deal with a problem in a very direct and confident way

25. to sort out the problem (phr.) = to deal with the problem successfully

Part 3. :
- What do you think are the main differences between mobile phones today and the first mobile phone?
- What kinds of technological products are popular in your country? Why?
- What main disadvantages do you see in the technological products today? Why?
- Why do you think some people always need to buy latest technological products?
- Who likes technology more, men or women? Why?
- What kind of technological devices will we use in our homes in the future?
- How does technology help in the workplace? Why?
- What do people use mobile phones for?
- Are some people too dependent on their phones today?
- What are some downsides of using a mobile phone?
- What do you think could be done to stop school children from using mobile phones during class?
- Do you think people rely on technology too much these days? Why/why not?
- Will new technological products shorten working hours? Why/why not? How?
- What types of equipment do we use on a daily basis?
- Do we really need so much equipment in our homes? Why/why not?
- Is housework load lighter today than it was in the past? Why/why not?
- Do people rely on equipment too much?
- What are some disadvantages on depending on equipment at home?
- What kinds of people can be good at designing machinery and equipment? What skills do they need? Why?
- Do schools in your country cultivate students design skills? Why/why not?
- What’s the latest innovation popular in your culture?
- Do you agree that the best inventions are always very simple? Why/why not?
- How are new inventions tested before production?
- Does your government support innovation? If so, in what way?
- Should inventions be shared with other countries? Why/why not?
- How can the world benefit from the latest inventions? Why?
- Does buying a new piece of equipment make people feel better? Why/why not?
- Do we become lazier because of so much equipment around us? Why/why not?
- Do people still get their things repaired today? Why/why not?
- Why do things break?
- Is it better to fix things or just throw them away? Why?
- Should people learn how to fix certain things in life? If so, which ones? Why/why not?
- Should children be taught how to fix basic things at school? Why/why not?
- What kind of a person could be a great inventor? Why?
- Do you think people were more inventive in the past? Why/why not?
- Can anyone invent something?
- Is being inventive something we are born with or something we can learn?
- Are inventors important to a country? Why?
- Can inventors contribute to country’s economy in any way? If so, how?
- something expensive you would like to buy/you bought/a time when you saved money for something special/something special you would like to buy in the future/something you bought but haven’t used much

Vocab :

1. a genius of bargaining /ˈdʒiːniəs/ (phr.) = someone who is excellent at bargaining for a lower price

2. daylight robbery (n.) = sth much too expensive

3. a rip-off (n.) = sth that is more expensive than it should be

4. a white elephant (n.) = sth that is useless and may have cost a lot of money

5. to cost an arm and a leg (phr.) = very expensive

6. bells and whistles (phr.) = the additional features that make sth attractive to use or look at

7. to have deep pockets (phr.) = to have abundant financial resources

8. is a luxury /ˈlʌkʃəri/ (phr.) = with the best and most expensive things around you

9. sth is an absolute necessity /ˈæbsəluːt nəˈsesəti/ (phr.) = sth is extremely needed

10. a spending pattern /ˈpætə(r)n/ (phr.) = the way one spends their money

11. conspicuous consumption /kənˈspɪkjʊəs kənˈsʌmpʃ(ə)n/ (phr.) = a great amount of things people buy or use

12. to be economical /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk(ə)l/ (adj.) = not costing or spending much money

13. to be penny-wise and pound-foolish (phr.) = not willing to spend small amounts of money, but likely to spend large amounts in a stupid way

14. a source of income (phr.) = where your money comes from

15. to scrimp and save to do sth /skrɪmp/ (phr.) = to spend money only on what is necessary and to save as much as you can

16. make ends meet (phr.) = to have just enough money to buy the things that you need

17. to be broke/skint /brəʊk/skɪnt/ (adj.) = to have no money

18. abject poverty /ˈæbdʒekt/ (n.) = complete poverty

19. to cost sb a fortune /ˈfɔː(r)tʃən/ (phr.) = to cost a lot of money

20. the bill for sth is exorbitant /ɪɡˈzɔː(r)bɪtənt/ (phr.) = the bill for sth is much more than reasonable

21. a status symbol /ˈsteɪtəs/ (n.) = a possession that someone is proud of and considers to be a symbol of their money or power

22. to be acquisitive /əˈkwɪzətɪv/ (adj.) = trying to get things, especially because you want them, rather than because you need them

23. vanity /ˈvænəti/ (n.) = complete lack of importance or value

24. to tighten one’s belt /ˈtaɪt(ə)n/ (phr.) = to spend less money

25. to do sth on a shoestring /ˈʃuːˌstrɪŋ/ (phr.) = on a small budget

26. to be beyond someone’s means (phr.) = to cost more money than your earn

27. to be dirt-cheap (adj.) = very cheap

28. a bargain /ˈbɑː(r)ɡɪn/ (n.) = a lower than usual price

29. to go on a shopping spree /spriː/ (phr.) = to spend a short period shopping only

30. to keep up with the Joneses /ˈdʒəʊnzɪz/ (phr.) = to try to be as rich, successful etc as your neighbours

31. sth is selling like hot cakes (phr.) = is being sold very quickly in large quantities

32. a futuristic look /ˌfjuːtʃəˈrɪstɪk/ (phr.) = looking so modern that it seems to belong to the future

33. home delivery (n.) = have products you bought brought to your home directly

34. to fork sth out (v.) = to spend money on sth, especially when you do not want to

35. to get thrown into trash (phr.) = to be thrown away

36. personal consumption (n.) = the amount of things one eats, buys, uses

37. disposable income /dɪˈspəʊzəb(ə)l/ (n.) = income remaining after deduction of taxes and other mandatory charges, available to be spent or saved as one wishes

38. an end-of-season sale (n.) = a sale event in shops happening at the end of each season

Part 3. :
- Which is more important to most people, the quality of the product or its price?
- Is there any way a consumer can check the quality of a product before purchasing it?
- What kinds of things would most people like to buy if they had enough money? Why?
- Do you think some people overpay for products that could be bought cheaper? Why?
- Can having lots of money make a person unhappy? Why/why not?
- How do people usually become rich in your culture?
- Which is more important to become rich, luck or hard work? Why?
- Do you think everybody wants to become rich one day? Why/why not?
- What other things do you see as important in life, except for money? Why?
- Which country is the wealthiest at the moment in your opinion?
- What benefits can people enjoy living in a rich country?
- Do rich countries have any responsibility to help the poorer ones? Why/why not?
- Should one country give money to another? If so, in what situation? Should the giving country control how the money is spent? Why/why not?
- What do people in your country usually save money for? Why?
- Is it easy to save money? Why/why not?
- Who is better at saving money, men or women? Why?
- Do you think some people spend more money then they make? Why/why not?
- Is marketing making people spend more? Why?
- Do many people in your country have credit cards? Why/why not?
- Do credit cards make people spend more? Why/why not?
- Can spending money make a person happy? Why/why not?
- Are people in your country generally good at managing money? Why/why not?
- How do families decide what to spend their money on? Why?
- Do you think it is common for governments to waste public money? Why/why not?
- Do you think people spend too much time on shopping these days? Why/why not?
- What are some recent changes in shopping habits?
- How can people use the time spent on shopping more productively?
- How does advertising affect how much and what we buy?
- Does advertising have any positive effects on consumerism? Why/why not?
- Do you think all businesses need to advertise their products? Why/why not?
- Is consumerism a good contribution to the society and economy? Why/why not?
- How does consumerism influence the environment? Why?
- Do you think growth in consumerism can be sustained? Why/why not? If so, how?
- Do people in your country like shopping? Why/why not?
- Can shopping be a hobby? Why/why not?
- What are some advantages of shopping in a huge mall?
- What are some disadvantages of shopping in a huge mall?
- Which is more important, quality or price? Why?
- Do people in your country recycle? Why/why not?
- What products do people recycle most often? Why?
- What materials are easy to recycle? Why?
- Is it important to recycle? Why/why not?
- Do you think that people recycle more often now than they did in the past? Why/why not?
- Will more people recycle in the future? Why/why not?
- Is there a lot of advertising in your country? Why/why not?
- Do people believe advertisements? Why/why not?
- Is advertising in your country powerful? Why/why not?
- Do people often buy advertised products? Why/why not?
- Do advertisements make people buy unnecessary things? Why/why not?
- Does the government control advertisements in your country? Why/why not?
- What are some benefits of governmental regulations on adverts?
- What are some drawbacks of governmental regulations on adverts?
- something you have shared with others

Vocab :

1. to split sth /splɪt/ (v.) = to share sth by diving it into separate parts

2. to have a hand in sth (phr.) = to help to make sth happen

3. to apportion sth /əˈpɔː(r)ʃ(ə)n/ (v.) = to divide sh between two or more people

4. to divvy up /ˈdɪvi/ (v.) = to divide or share sth

5. to share responsibilities (v.)

6. reluctant /rɪˈlʌktənt/ (adj.) = not willing to do sth

7. reticent /ˈretɪs(ə)nt/ (adj.) = not willing to provide information about sth

8. to share your experience (phr.)

9. readily given /ˈredɪli/ (adj.) = easily given

10. ungrudging /ʌnˈɡrʌdʒɪŋ/ (adj.) = done willingly

11. the lion’s share (phr.) = the largest part of sth

12. share and share alike (phr.) = used for saying that is is best to share things equally and fairly

13. a trouble shared is a trouble halved (proverb) = talking to someone else about one’s problems helps to alleviate them

14. to share sb’s sorrow/ˈsɒrəʊ/ (phr.) = to share sb’s great sadness

Part 3. :
- What are the benefits of sharing?
- Do people in your country often share food during celebrations? Why/why not?
- How do you think children could be taught to share?
- Why do you think some people don’t like sharing?
- Is it important to share with others? Why/why not?
- What things do children dislike sharing with others and why?
- Why is it important for children to learn how to share things at young age?
- Do people often need to share space in your country? Why/why not?
- What does sharing accommodation look like in your country? Why?
- Do people in your country often share transportation? Why/why not? On what occasions?
- Do you think that when people share something there should be some clearly established rules? Why/why not?
- How do people normally share information? Why?
- Do you think the Internet makes people share too much personal information? Why/why not?
- Should researchers share their findings with others freely? Why/why not?
- Do you think that it is necessary for countries to share information if they want to cooperate better? Why/why not?
- useful advice you received/gave

Vocab :

1. to go against the grain (phr.) = to be completely different from what you feel is right for you

2. to oppose a tendency /ˈtendənsi/ (phr.) = to disagree with a habit

3. to convince sb to do sth /kənˈvɪns/ (v.) = to persuade sb to do sth

4. sb has no say in sth (phr.) = sb has no power of decision

5. to go in one ear and out the other (phr.) = used for saying that sb does not remember what you say or pay attention to it

6. to miss out on vital information /ˈvaɪt(ə)l/ (phr.) = to lose an opportunity to get important information

7. it makes sense to do sth (phr.) = it is practical and sensible to do sth

8. to take note of sth (phr.) = to try to remember sth because you think it is important

9. sth is of the essence /ˈes(ə)ns/ (phr.) = sth is very important

10. if all else fails (phr.) = used for saying that, if other methods do not succeed, there is one last thing that you can try to do

11. for what it’s worth (phr.) = used when you are telling someone sth and you are not sure how useful it is

12. sth is your best bet (phr.) = the thing or action that gives the best chance of a successful result

13. to turn sb down (v.) = to not accept an offer/advice

14. If I were you, I’d… (phr.) = used for giving advice

15. If I were in your shoes, I’d… (phr.) = used for giving advice

16. to take sth into account (v.) = to consider sth when you are trying to make a decision

17. You’d better…(phr.) = used to give advice

18. Try to… (phr.) = used to give advice

19. I hadn’t thought about that. (phr.) = I have no idea about it

20. Yes, you’ll right. I’ll do that. (phr.) = used when one accepts advice

21. Of course! I should have thought about that! (phr.) = used when one agrees with the advice received

22. You may be right, but here’s the thing…(phr.) = used when one isn’t convinced whether the advice received would work