IELTS SPEAKING PART 2 — 25 HIGH-PRIORITY CUE CARDS September 2026

IELTS SPEAKING PART 2 — 25 HIGH-PRIORITY CUE CARDS September 2026

1. DESCRIBE A USEFUL OBJECT YOU USE ALMOST EVERY DAY

You should say: what it is, how you got it, how you use it, and why it is useful.

Sample

The first thing that comes to mind is my phone. I know that sounds incredibly predictable, but honestly, I’d be lost without it on a typical day. I use it for everything from checking messages and making calls to setting reminders and looking up information.

I actually bought my current phone a couple of years ago when my previous one started acting up. At first, I thought I’d just use it for communication, but it gradually became part of my daily routine. I use it to organise my work, keep track of appointments and even make quick notes when an idea pops into my head.

What makes it particularly useful is that it puts so many things at my fingertips. I don’t have to carry a notebook, camera, calculator and diary separately. It’s basically an all-in-one tool.

I wouldn’t say I’m addicted to it, but it would definitely throw a spanner in the works if I suddenly had to live without it.

Idioms / phrases:

at my fingertips..., part of my daily routine..., acting up..., throw a spanner in the works..., all-in-one.

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2. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU HAD TO WAIT FOR SOMETHING IMPORTANT

You should say: what you waited for, why it was important, how long you waited, and how you felt.

Sample

One situation that immediately comes to mind was when I was waiting for an important result. I had put quite a lot of effort into the whole process, so naturally, I was desperate to know the outcome.

The funny thing was that the actual waiting period wasn’t particularly long, but it felt like an eternity. I kept checking my phone every few minutes, even though I knew the result wouldn’t magically appear any faster.

At first, I tried to keep myself busy. I watched something, did some household chores and talked to a friend, but my mind kept wandering back to it. Eventually, I got the message, and I remember feeling a huge sense of relief.

Looking back, the experience taught me that waiting is sometimes harder than the actual event. When something matters to you, even a few hours can feel like forever.

Idioms / phrases:

felt like an eternity..., desperate to know..., keep myself busy..., mind kept wandering..., huge sense of relief.

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3. DESCRIBE A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN CONCENTRATE WELL

You should say: where it is, what it looks like, what you do there, and why you concentrate well there.

Sample

A place that works really well for me is a quiet corner of my home. It isn’t anything fancy, but I’ve arranged it in a way that helps me focus.

There’s a comfortable chair, a small desk and just the basic things I need. I deliberately keep the area fairly uncluttered because if there’s too much stuff around me, I somehow end up paying attention to everything except my work.

I usually sit there when I need to read, prepare something or deal with tasks that require serious concentration. The biggest advantage is that there are very few distractions. I can put my phone away, shut the door and get on with things.

It’s basically my little productivity zone. Once I sit there, my brain seems to switch into work mode, which is probably why I get much more done than I would on the sofa.

Idioms / phrases:

get on with it..., productivity zone..., work mode..., pay attention..., get more done.

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4. DESCRIBE A PERSON WHO IS VERY GOOD AT ORGANISING THINGS

You should say: who the person is, what they organise, how they do it, and why you admire this ability.

Sample

The person who immediately comes to mind is someone I know who seems to have a system for absolutely everything. If there’s a trip, an event or even a simple family gathering, this person somehow has all the details sorted out.

What I find impressive is that they don’t seem stressed while doing it. They make lists, set reminders and work things out well in advance. Meanwhile, I’m sometimes still wondering what I’m supposed to be doing!

I particularly noticed this during a family event. They had planned the timings, food, transport and even a backup plan in case something went wrong. And, surprisingly, almost everything went according to plan.

I think that kind of organisation takes a lot of discipline. It definitely makes life easier because you’re not constantly running around trying to fix last-minute problems.

Idioms / phrases:

have everything sorted out..., well in advance..., backup plan..., go according to plan..., last-minute problems.

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5. DESCRIBE A SMALL BUSINESS YOU LIKE VISITING

You should say: what it is, where it is, what it sells, and why you like it.

Sample

There’s a small shop near my home that I quite like visiting. It’s not a huge business or anything glamorous, but it has a really pleasant atmosphere.

They sell everyday household items, snacks and a few locally made products. What keeps me going back is the service. The owner actually remembers regular customers, so there’s a friendly, familiar feeling whenever you walk in.

Another thing I like is that I can usually find something slightly different from what I’d see in a large supermarket. Sometimes we have a quick chat, and the owner even recommends products based on what I’ve bought before.

I think small businesses like this add character to a neighbourhood. They may not have the purchasing power of big companies, but they often make up for it with personal service.

Idioms / phrases:

quite like..., go back to..., make up for..., add character..., familiar feeling.

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6. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU LOST SOMETHING AND FOUND IT AGAIN

You should say: what you lost, where you lost it, how you found it, and how you felt.

Sample

One incident that still makes me laugh happened when I thought I’d lost my keys. I was already running late, so naturally, I started panicking almost immediately.

I checked my bag, my pockets and practically every surface in the house. After about ten minutes, I was convinced I’d have to get a spare key. Then, completely by chance, I noticed the keys sitting on a shelf right in front of me.

I honestly couldn’t believe it. They had been there the whole time, and I’d somehow looked straight past them. The relief was instant, followed by a little embarrassment because I had created such a drama over something so simple.

Since then, I’ve tried to keep my keys in exactly the same place. It sounds boring, but it saves me a lot of unnecessary stress.

Idioms / phrases:

running late..., start panicking..., right in front of me..., look straight past..., unnecessary stress.

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7. DESCRIBE A PIECE OF ADVICE THAT CHANGED THE WAY YOU DO SOMETHING

You should say: who gave it, what the advice was, when you received it, and how it changed you.

Sample

One piece of advice I still remember was given to me by someone close to me. I was trying to deal with too many things at once, and I was constantly worrying about what might go wrong.

They basically told me to focus on what I could actually control instead of wasting energy on things completely outside my hands.

At first, it sounded like one of those simple pieces of advice that everyone gives, but I gradually realised how useful it was. Whenever I start overthinking something now, I ask myself whether there’s actually anything I can do about it.

If there is, I take action. If there isn’t, I try to let it go.

It hasn’t magically solved every problem in my life, but it has definitely helped me keep things in perspective.

Idioms / phrases:

outside my hands..., overthink something..., take action..., let it go..., keep things in perspective.

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8. DESCRIBE A SKILL YOU LEARNED OUTSIDE SCHOOL OR WORK

You should say: what the skill is, when you learned it, how you learned it, and why it is useful.

Sample

A useful skill I picked up outside school or work is basic cooking. I wouldn’t call myself an expert chef by any stretch of the imagination, but I can prepare a decent meal now.

I actually learned mostly through trial and error. I watched videos, followed recipes and made plenty of mistakes along the way. Sometimes the result was great, and sometimes it was absolutely inedible.

Over time, though, I became more confident. I learned how to adjust ingredients, manage cooking times and, most importantly, stay calm when something didn’t go according to plan.

It’s a surprisingly useful skill because it saves money and gives me more control over what I eat. Plus, there’s something satisfying about making a meal from scratch.

Idioms / phrases:

pick up a skill..., by any stretch of the imagination..., trial and error..., along the way..., from scratch.

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9. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU HELPED SOMEONE SOLVE A PRACTICAL PROBLEM

You should say: who needed help, what the problem was, what you did, and how you felt.

Sample

I remember helping someone who was having trouble with a phone or computer. They were completely stuck and had already tried several things without success.

I’m not particularly technical, but I decided to have a look. We went through the settings step by step and eventually figured out that the problem was actually something quite simple.

The funny part was that the solution took about five minutes once we identified the cause. The person was incredibly relieved because they had been convinced the device was completely broken.

I was glad I could help. Sometimes people don’t necessarily need an expert; they just need someone to stay calm and look at the problem from a different angle.

Idioms / phrases:

completely stuck..., have a look..., step by step..., figure something out..., from a different angle.

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10. DESCRIBE A PUBLIC PLACE THAT HAS CHANGED RECENTLY

You should say: where it is, what it was like before, what has changed, and what you think about it.

Sample

There’s a public area near where I live that has recently been renovated. It used to be quite dull and poorly maintained, so people didn’t really spend much time there.

After the renovation, they added seating, better lighting, greenery and a few walking areas. The whole place feels more open and welcoming now.

What surprised me was how quickly people started using it. Families go there in the evening, children have somewhere to play and older people can sit and chat.

Personally, I think it was a worthwhile change. It wasn’t a spectacular transformation, but it made the area more useful and pleasant. Sometimes relatively small improvements can have a big impact on everyday life.

Idioms / phrases:

poorly maintained..., worthwhile change..., big impact..., spruce up..., more welcoming.

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11. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU RECEIVED UNEXPECTED GOOD NEWS

You should say: what the news was, when you received it, who told you, and how you reacted.

Sample

One piece of good news I received completely out of the blue was when I got a message I had been hoping for, but honestly, I wasn’t expecting it that day.

I was in the middle of doing something completely ordinary when I checked my phone and saw the message. At first, I actually read it twice because I thought I might have misunderstood it.

Once it sank in, I was absolutely delighted. I immediately shared the news with my family, and everyone was genuinely pleased.

What made it special was the fact that I hadn’t been waiting around expecting a positive outcome. So when it finally happened, it felt like a pleasant surprise.

Idioms / phrases:

out of the blue..., sink in..., absolutely delighted..., waiting around..., pleasant surprise.

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12. DESCRIBE A USEFUL ITEM THAT SOMEONE GAVE YOU

You should say: what it was, who gave it to you, when you received it, and why it is useful.

Sample

A useful item someone gave me was a small portable charger. It may sound like a fairly ordinary gift, but I use it much more often than I expected.

I received it from someone who knew I was constantly using my phone and occasionally running out of battery when I was away from home.

It’s incredibly handy when I’m travelling or spending a long day outside. Instead of desperately looking for a charging point, I can simply connect my phone and carry on with whatever I’m doing.

The best thing is that it’s small enough to fit into my bag without taking up much space. It’s one of those gifts that doesn’t look particularly exciting, but once you have it, you wonder how you managed without it.

Idioms / phrases:

come in handy..., run out of battery..., carry on..., take up space..., wonder how I managed without it.

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13. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU HAD TO CHANGE YOUR ORIGINAL PLAN

You should say: what your original plan was, why it changed, what you did instead, and how you felt.

Sample

One time I had to completely change my plans was when I was supposed to go somewhere with a few people, but something unexpected came up at the last minute.

Initially, I was quite annoyed because everything had already been arranged. I’d mentally planned the whole day, so having to change it felt like a real inconvenience.

However, instead of letting it ruin the day, we came up with a backup plan. We stayed closer to home, found somewhere to eat and ended up having a surprisingly good time.

Looking back, it was actually a useful reminder that things don’t always go according to plan. Sometimes you just have to roll with it instead of getting worked up over something you can’t control.

Idioms / phrases:

at the last minute..., backup plan..., ruin the day..., roll with it..., get worked up.

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14. DESCRIBE A PERSON WHO IS GOOD AT MAKING DECISIONS

You should say: who the person is, what decisions they make, how they decide, and why you admire them.

Sample

Someone I know who is particularly good at making decisions is a person who rarely gets overwhelmed when there are several options.

What I admire is that they don’t rush into things. They usually look at the pros and cons, think about the long-term consequences and then make a decision without constantly second-guessing themselves.

I remember once when we had to choose between several options for something important. Everyone else was going back and forth, but this person calmly compared everything and helped us settle on the most sensible choice.

I think good decision-making is less about always being right and more about being able to make a reasonable choice and move forward without dwelling on it.

Idioms / phrases:

rush into something..., weigh the pros and cons..., go back and forth..., settle on..., second-guess yourself.

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15. DESCRIBE A PLACE YOU VISITED THAT WAS MUCH QUIETER THAN EXPECTED

You should say: where it was, why you went there, what you expected, and how you felt.

Sample

A place that really surprised me was a popular tourist area that I expected to be absolutely packed. I’d heard a lot about it, so I assumed there would be crowds everywhere.

But when I visited, it was almost eerily quiet. There were only a handful of people around, and the whole place had a very relaxed atmosphere.

Instead of feeling disappointed, I actually enjoyed it more. I could walk around at my own pace, take photographs and properly appreciate the surroundings without constantly bumping into people.

It was one of those unexpected little surprises that makes a trip memorable. I went there expecting chaos and ended up getting a peaceful afternoon.

Idioms / phrases:

absolutely packed..., a handful of..., at my own pace..., bump into people..., unexpected little surprise.

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16. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU SUCCESSFULLY PERSUADED SOMEONE

You should say: who you persuaded, what you wanted them to do, how you persuaded them, and how you felt.

Sample

I remember persuading someone close to me to try something they were initially quite reluctant about. They had already made up their mind that they wouldn’t enjoy it.

Instead of pushing them, I explained why I thought it would be worthwhile and suggested that they simply give it a try once.

I also pointed out a few practical benefits and reassured them that they could stop if they genuinely disliked it. Eventually, they agreed.

The funny thing is that they ended up enjoying it much more than I expected. Afterwards, they admitted that they were glad they had given it a chance.

I was pleased, but I also realised that persuasion works better when you understand the other person rather than simply trying to get your own way.

Idioms / phrases:

give it a try..., give it a chance..., get your own way..., make up your mind..., point out.

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17. DESCRIBE A DAILY HABIT YOU WOULD LIKE TO DEVELOP

You should say: what the habit is, why you want it, what prevents you, and how you could develop it.

Sample

One habit I’d really like to develop is reading for a little while every day. I used to read much more regularly, but these days it’s surprisingly easy to spend that time scrolling through my phone instead.

Ideally, I’d like to read for around twenty or thirty minutes before going to bed. It would help me relax, improve my vocabulary and give me a proper break from screens.

The biggest obstacle is probably consistency. I can do something for a few days and then suddenly fall off the wagon.

So I think the sensible approach would be to start small rather than setting an unrealistic target. If I make it part of my evening routine, hopefully it’ll eventually become second nature.

Idioms / phrases:

fall off the wagon..., start small..., second nature..., scroll through..., make it part of my routine.

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18. DESCRIBE AN INTERESTING CONVERSATION YOU HAD WITH SOMEONE YOU HAD JUST MET

You should say: who the person was, where you met, what you talked about, and why it was interesting.

Sample

I once had a surprisingly interesting conversation with someone I had only just met at an event. We started with the usual small talk, but somehow the conversation moved into travel, work and different ways of looking at everyday life.

What made it interesting was that we had very different backgrounds, so they had completely different experiences from mine. I found myself asking lots of questions because I genuinely wanted to know more.

We probably talked for less than an hour, but it felt much longer because the conversation flowed so naturally.

I think that’s what makes a good conversation—you don’t have to force it. One topic simply leads to another, and before you know it, you’ve learned something new about someone.

Idioms / phrases:

small talk..., move into..., different backgrounds..., conversation flowed..., before you know it.

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19. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN SOMETHING DID NOT WORK AS EXPECTED

You should say: what happened, what you expected, what you did, and how you felt.

Sample

I remember buying something that I expected to work perfectly, but it started causing problems almost immediately.

At first, I thought I was using it incorrectly, so I checked the instructions and tried a few different things. Nothing seemed to work, and honestly, I was getting quite frustrated.

Eventually, I contacted the seller and found out that there was actually a fault with the product. They arranged a replacement, so thankfully, the problem was sorted out.

It was annoying at the time, but it taught me not to assume that every problem is my fault. Sometimes something simply doesn’t work properly, and the best thing you can do is deal with it rather than wasting hours getting frustrated.

Idioms / phrases:

not work properly..., get frustrated..., sort something out..., waste hours..., at the time.

20. DESCRIBE A LOCAL PLACE YOU WOULD RECOMMEND TO A VISITOR

You should say: what the place is, where it is, what visitors can do there, and why you recommend it.

Sample

If a visitor asked me to recommend somewhere local, I’d probably suggest a popular market area near where I live.

It’s a great place to experience everyday life rather than just seeing the typical tourist attractions. There are food stalls, small shops and plenty of people going about their daily business.

I’d suggest going in the evening because that’s when the place really comes alive. You can grab something to eat, wander around and simply soak up the atmosphere.

I think it gives visitors a more authentic experience. They get to see how people actually spend their time, rather than just visiting places that have been designed specifically for tourists.

Idioms / phrases:

come alive..., grab something to eat..., soak up the atmosphere..., go about their business..., authentic experience.

21. DESCRIBE SOMETHING OLD THAT YOU OR YOUR FAMILY STILL KEEP

You should say: what it is, how old it is, how you got it, and why you keep it.

Sample

There’s an old family item that we’ve kept for years. It isn’t particularly expensive or valuable in financial terms, but it has a lot of meaning attached to it.

It has been passed down through the family, so several generations have actually seen and used it. Whenever I look at it, I’m reminded of family stories and people from the past.

We don’t use it regularly anymore, but I don’t think anyone wants to throw it away. It’s almost like a physical link to an earlier period of our lives.

I think that’s why people keep old possessions. Sometimes their real value isn’t what they’re worth; it’s the memories and stories that come with them.

Idioms / phrases:

passed down..., attached to..., throw away..., link to the past..., come with memories.

22. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU HAD TO LEARN SOMETHING QUICKLY

You should say: what you had to learn, why you needed to learn it quickly, how you learned it, and how you felt.

Sample

One situation that comes to mind was when I suddenly had to learn how to use a new piece of technology. I didn’t have much time because I needed it for something important the following day.

Initially, I felt slightly overwhelmed because there were so many features and settings. Instead of trying to understand everything, I focused only on what I actually needed.

I watched a few short tutorials, practised the basic functions and made a few mistakes along the way. By the end of the day, I could use it well enough to get the job done.

I was quite relieved, to be honest. It reminded me that when time is tight, learning the essentials first is often much more effective than trying to master everything at once.

Idioms / phrases:

time is tight..., get the job done..., along the way..., get the hang of..., focus on the essentials.

23. DESCRIBE A DECISION YOU MADE AFTER COMPARING SEVERAL OPTIONS

You should say: what the decision was, what options you considered, how you compared them, and why you chose one.

Sample

A decision I remember making after comparing several options was choosing a new device. There were so many models available that making a decision was actually harder than I expected.

Rather than simply choosing the most expensive one, I made a short list of what mattered to me—price, reliability, performance and how long I expected to use it.

I compared a few models and read some reviews before finally choosing one that offered the best balance.

I was quite happy with the decision because I didn’t feel as though I’d simply been influenced by advertising. I had actually thought it through and chosen something that suited my needs.

Idioms / phrases:

make a shortlist..., weigh up..., best balance..., think something through..., suit my needs.

24. DESCRIBE A TIME WHEN YOU NOTICED SOMETHING INTERESTING IN AN ORDINARY PLACE

You should say: where you were, what you noticed, why it caught your attention, and how you felt.

Sample

I remember noticing something interesting while I was waiting somewhere completely ordinary. I was sitting around with nothing particular to do, so I started paying attention to the people around me.

I noticed how differently people behaved while they were waiting. Some were glued to their phones, some were chatting, and others just sat quietly and watched what was happening.

It sounds like a very simple observation, but I found it surprisingly fascinating. It made me realise how people have completely different ways of dealing with the same situation.

Normally, I would probably have ignored all of this and gone straight back to my phone. So it was actually quite refreshing to slow down and simply observe what was happening around me.

Idioms / phrases:

caught my attention..., glued to their phones..., slow down..., pay attention..., take something in.

25. DESCRIBE AN ACTIVITY YOU WOULD LIKE TO BECOME BETTER AT

You should say: what it is, why you want to improve, what you currently do, and how you could improve.

Sample

One activity I’d genuinely like to get better at is photography. I already take plenty of pictures, especially when I’m travelling, but most of the time I just point my phone at something and hope for the best.

I’d love to understand things like lighting, composition and angles properly. At the moment, I rely more on luck than actual skill.

If I had more time, I’d probably follow a beginner course and practise regularly instead of expecting myself to improve overnight. I could also study photographs taken by experienced photographers and try to understand what makes them work.

For me, the appeal is that photography makes you notice ordinary things differently. You start looking at light, colours and small details that you might otherwise completely miss.

Idioms / phrases:

get better at..., hope for the best..., rely on luck..., improve overnight..., miss the little details.

IELTS SPEAKING Essential Part 1Topics September 2026:

IELTS SPEAKING Essential  Part 1Topics September 2026:

PART 1 — 25 TOPICS

1. KEYS

Q1. Do you usually carry your keys with you?

Absolutely. I keep them in the little front pocket of my bag because I’m hopeless at finding things when I’m in a hurry. I’d rather have them in one fixed place than waste five minutes hunting around for them.

Q2. Have you ever lost your keys?

Unfortunately, yes, and it was a complete nightmare. I once left them on a shop counter and only realised when I reached my front door. Luckily, the shopkeeper had kept them aside for me.

Q3. Do you keep a spare key?

I do, actually. There’s one with a family member in case I lock myself out. It’s one of those boring little precautions that you hardly think about until you really need it.

Q4. Are modern keys better than old-fashioned ones?

In some ways, definitely. Smart locks are incredibly convenient because you can use a code or your phone instead of carrying metal keys around. That said, I still like having a physical key as a backup.

Ideas: convenience..., security..., losing things..., fixed storage place..., emergency backup.

Vocabulary: spare key, key ring, lock myself out, duplicate, smart lock, security feature, keep something handy.

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2. MIRRORS

Q1. How often do you look in a mirror?

Quite a few times a day, especially before I leave home. I’m not constantly checking my appearance, but I like making sure my hair and clothes are in place before heading out.

Q2. Do you have many mirrors at home?

We have a few, but nothing excessive. There’s a large one in the bedroom and smaller ones in the bathrooms. The bigger one is particularly useful when I’m getting ready in the morning.

Q3. Have you ever bought a mirror?

Yes, I bought a fairly large one for my bedroom a while ago. I wanted something practical but also something that would make the room feel more spacious. It actually made quite a difference.

Q4. Do you think mirrors are useful?

Definitely, because they’re practical as well as decorative. Apart from checking your appearance, a well-placed mirror can make a small room seem brighter and more open.

Ideas: appearance..., decoration..., room size..., getting ready.

Vocabulary: full-length mirror, reflection, decorative, spacious, well-lit, check my appearance.

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3. QUEUES

Q1. Do you mind waiting in a queue?

It depends on how long it is. A couple of minutes doesn’t bother me, but standing around for half an hour can get pretty frustrating. I usually occupy myself by checking messages.

Q2. Where do you usually have to wait in line?

Mostly at supermarkets, banks or busy cafés. Supermarkets are probably the most common because there always seems to be someone with a trolley full of groceries ahead of me.

Q3. Are people in your country good at waiting patiently?

It really depends on the situation. Some people are quite patient, while others start getting restless almost immediately. When everyone is in a rush, queues can become surprisingly tense.

Q4. What could make waiting easier?

Clear information would help a lot. If people knew roughly how long they had to wait, they’d probably be less irritated. Comfortable seating and digital ticket systems could also make a difference.

Ideas: patience..., technology..., frustration..., time management.

Vocabulary: stand in line, get restless, time-consuming, estimated waiting time, digital queue, frustrating.

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4. NAMES

Q1. Do you like your name?

Absolutely. It feels very natural to me because I’ve had it all my life, and I can’t really imagine being called anything else. I also like the fact that it’s easy for people to pronounce.

Q2. How do parents choose names for their children?

There are usually several factors involved. Some parents follow family traditions, while others choose something modern or meaningful. Quite a few also consider how unusual or easy to pronounce a name is.

Q3. Are there any names that are particularly popular in your country?

Yes, certain names come and go in fashion. Traditional names remain popular, but younger parents sometimes prefer shorter or more distinctive ones. Social media has probably influenced this to some extent.

Q4. Would you ever change your name?

Probably not. Even if I didn’t particularly like it, changing it would feel strange after using the same name for decades. It’s quite closely tied to my identity.

Ideas: identity..., family tradition..., popularity..., uniqueness.

Vocabulary: traditional name, distinctive, meaningful, common name, unusual, pronunciation, identity.

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5. HANDWRITING

Q1. Do you often write things by hand?

Not nearly as much as I used to. Most of my work is done digitally now, but I still jot things down when I need to remember something quickly. Somehow, handwritten notes can feel more memorable.

Q2. Is your handwriting neat?

It depends on how much time I have. When I’m relaxed, it’s reasonably tidy, but if I’m rushing, it becomes almost impossible to read. I suppose my handwriting reflects my mood sometimes.

Q3. Did you have to practise handwriting at school?

Yes, quite a lot. We regularly copied sentences and practised forming letters properly. At the time it felt repetitive, but I can see why teachers considered it important.

Q4. Do you prefer typing or writing by hand?

For longer pieces of work, typing wins hands down because it’s quicker and easier to edit. For short notes, though, I still prefer a pen and paper because it feels more immediate.

Ideas: speed..., memory..., school practice..., convenience.

Vocabulary: jot something down, legible, tidy handwriting, scribble, type, edit, write something down.

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6. SHOES

Q1. What kind of shoes do you usually wear?

I tend to go for comfortable, practical shoes rather than anything too flashy. Since I spend quite a lot of time on my feet, comfort is a bigger priority for me than fashion.

Q2. Do you enjoy buying shoes?

To be honest, only when I actually need a pair. I’m not someone who buys shoes just for the sake of it. I’d rather find one reliable pair that I can wear regularly.

Q3. Have you ever bought expensive shoes?

A few times, yes, but only when I knew I’d get plenty of use out of them. Paying more can make sense if the quality is noticeably better and they last for years.

Q4. Do you prefer fashionable or comfortable shoes?

Comfort comes first for me. There’s no point wearing something stylish if your feet are killing you after an hour. Ideally, though, I’d choose something that offers both.

Ideas: comfort..., fashion..., durability..., practicality.

Vocabulary: comfortable fit, durable, footwear, stylish, practical, worth the money, wear something regularly.

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7. DOORS

Q1. Do you usually keep doors open or closed?

It depends on the room. I like keeping common areas open because it makes the house feel more connected, but I prefer bedroom doors closed when I need some privacy.

Q2. Do you like automatic doors?

Yes, especially when I’m carrying bags. They’re incredibly convenient because you don’t have to struggle with a handle while trying not to drop everything.

Q3. Are there many glass doors where you live?

There are quite a few in shops and modern buildings. They look sleek and let in plenty of light, although I sometimes worry about people accidentally walking into them.

Q4. Have you ever had a problem with a door?

Yes, we once had a door that wouldn’t close properly. It was a minor issue, but it became incredibly annoying because we had to push it several times before it actually latched.

Ideas: privacy..., convenience..., safety..., design.

Vocabulary: latch, handle, entrance, automatic sensor, glass panel, privacy, close properly.

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8. RECEIPTS

Q1. Do you usually keep receipts?

I keep them for expensive purchases, especially electronics or appliances. For everyday things, though, I usually throw them away once I know there’s no problem with the purchase.

Q2. Do you prefer paper or digital receipts?

Digital ones are much easier to store. They don’t pile up in your wallet or disappear somewhere in a drawer. I can simply search for them if I need proof of purchase later.

Q3. Have you ever needed a receipt after buying something?

Yes, once when I had to return an electronic item. Thankfully, I still had the receipt, so the whole process was straightforward. Without it, I probably would have had a headache.

Q4. Do shops in your area usually provide receipts?

Yes, almost everywhere does. Some shops automatically print one, while others ask whether you want a paper or digital copy. Digital receipts seem to be becoming more common.

Ideas: returns..., proof of purchase..., organisation..., convenience.

Vocabulary: proof of purchase, refund, return an item, digital copy, warranty, transaction.

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9. POCKETS

Q1. Do you usually use your pockets?

Quite often, especially when I’m going somewhere briefly and don’t want to carry a bag. I’ll usually put my phone, keys and maybe some cash in them.

Q2. What do you usually keep in your pockets?

Usually just the essentials. My phone and keys are the main things, although I occasionally find random receipts in there that I completely forgot about.

Q3. Do you think clothes should have more pockets?

Absolutely. Practical pockets are underrated, especially in women’s clothing, where they’re sometimes tiny or completely useless. A decent-sized pocket can save you from carrying another bag.

Q4. Did you use your pockets differently when you were younger?

Yes, definitely. As a child, I used to fill them with all sorts of random things, like stones, toys and bits of paper. I suppose children are natural collectors.

Ideas: convenience..., storage..., clothing design..., childhood habits.

Vocabulary: pocket-sized, handy, carry around, storage, practical design, essentials.

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10. NEIGHBOURHOOD SHOPS

Q1. Do you often shop at local shops?

Yes, particularly when I need something quickly. They’re usually much more convenient than travelling to a large shopping centre for one or two things.

Q2. What kind of shops are common in your neighbourhood?

There are quite a few grocery shops, pharmacies and small cafés. Most of them are independently owned, so the atmosphere is a little more personal than in large chains.

Q3. Why do people still use small shops?

Convenience is probably the biggest reason. They’re nearby, the staff often recognise regular customers, and you can usually get in and out quickly.

Q4. Do you think local shops will survive in the future?

I think many will, provided they adapt. Online shopping is a serious competitor, but small shops can still offer personal service and products that large platforms don’t always provide.

Ideas: convenience..., personal service..., competition..., community.

Vocabulary: independent retailer, regular customer, local economy, personalised service, convenient, compete with.

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11. WAITING

Q1. Are you good at waiting?

I’m reasonably patient, but I don’t enjoy waiting without knowing what’s happening. If there’s a clear reason for the delay, I can accept it much more easily.

Q2. What do you usually do while waiting?

I normally check my phone, read something or listen to music. If I’m expecting a long wait, I’ll deliberately bring something to keep myself occupied.

Q3. When was the last time you waited for something important?

Recently, I had to wait for an important response, and it felt much longer than it actually was. I kept checking my phone even though I knew there was nothing I could do to speed things up.

Q4. Do people today have less patience than in the past?

I’d say so, largely because everything is available instantly now. We can order food, communicate and access information within seconds, so delays naturally feel more frustrating.

Ideas: patience..., instant services..., uncertainty..., distraction.

Vocabulary: delayed, impatient, occupy myself, instant access, frustrating, keep checking.

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12. HOUSEHOLD OBJECTS

Q1. What household item do you use most?

Probably my phone, although technically it’s not a traditional household item. Apart from that, I’d say the kitchen appliances I use every day are absolutely indispensable.

Q2. Do you have an old object at home that you still use?

Yes, there’s an old piece of furniture that has been in the family for years. It isn’t particularly modern, but it’s sturdy and has sentimental value.

Q3. Do you usually replace household objects quickly?

Not really. If something still works properly, I tend to keep using it. I only replace things when they become unreliable, unsafe or too outdated to be useful.

Q4. What household item would you find difficult to live without?

My refrigerator, without a doubt. It sounds mundane, but daily life would become incredibly inconvenient without it, especially when it comes to storing fresh food.

Ideas: usefulness..., durability..., memories..., necessity.

Vocabulary: indispensable, sturdy, outdated, replace, household appliance, sentimental value.

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13. LISTS

Q1. Do you make lists?

All the time, especially when I have several things to remember. Writing them down clears my head and stops small tasks from slipping through the cracks.

Q2. What kind of lists do you make?

Mostly shopping lists and daily to-do lists. Occasionally I’ll make a list before travelling because otherwise I’m almost guaranteed to forget something important.

Q3. Do you prefer paper lists or lists on your phone?

I use both, but my phone is more practical for long lists. For very short tasks, though, scribbling something on paper is quicker.

Q4. Did you make lists when you were a child?

Not really. Children tend to rely on memory or simply deal with things as they come. I only started making lists regularly when my responsibilities increased.

Ideas: organisation..., memory..., productivity..., reducing stress.

Vocabulary: to-do list, jot down, stay organised, slip through the cracks, prioritise, keep track of.

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14. SILENCE

Q1. Do you enjoy quiet places?

Definitely, especially when I need to concentrate. A peaceful environment helps me think clearly, whereas constant background noise can become distracting after a while.

Q2. Where do you usually go when you want some peace and quiet?

Usually my room or a quiet corner of a library. I don’t necessarily need complete silence; I just prefer somewhere without constant conversations or traffic noise.

Q3. Is your home usually quiet?

Not particularly. There’s usually something going on, especially during the day. I’ve actually become quite good at finding little pockets of quiet when I need them.

Q4. Do you think people need more silence nowadays?

Probably. We’re surrounded by notifications, traffic, videos and conversations almost constantly. Having a little uninterrupted time can be surprisingly refreshing.

Ideas: concentration..., relaxation..., noise pollution..., digital overload.

Vocabulary: peaceful, uninterrupted, background noise, distracting, quiet corner, recharge.

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15. BORROWING

Q1. Do you often borrow things from other people?

Not very often because I prefer being self-sufficient. I’ll borrow something occasionally if it’s an item I’m only going to use once or twice.

Q2. What kinds of things do people usually borrow?

Usually practical things such as books, tools, chargers or kitchen equipment. There’s not much point everyone buying something that sits unused most of the time.

Q3. Do you mind lending your things to others?

Not generally, provided I trust the person. I only get uncomfortable when something valuable is involved because I’d hate to damage a friendship over a misplaced item.

Q4. Have you ever forgotten to return something?

Yes, once or twice, especially with books. I genuinely forgot rather than deliberately keeping them, but I felt quite awkward when the owner eventually asked for them back.

Ideas: trust..., sharing..., saving money..., responsibility.

Vocabulary: lend, borrow, return, self-sufficient, valuable, misplaced, take responsibility.

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16. PUBLIC NOTICES

Q1. Do you usually read public signs and notices?

If they’re relevant to me, definitely. I tend to scan them when I’m somewhere unfamiliar because they often contain useful information about directions, rules or changes.

Q2. Are public notices easy to understand?

Most are, but some are unnecessarily complicated. A short, clear message is much more effective than a huge block of formal language that nobody has time to read.

Q3. Have you ever followed a notice that turned out to be wrong?

Yes, once I followed an old sign at a building and ended up going in completely the wrong direction. It was frustrating, but fortunately I realised my mistake fairly quickly.

Q4. What makes a good public notice?

It should be short, visible and straightforward. Important information needs to stand out immediately, particularly in places where people are in a hurry.

Ideas: clarity..., accessibility..., directions..., public safety.

Vocabulary: signage, clearly displayed, straightforward, instructions, warning, directional sign.

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17. BAGS

Q1. What kind of bag do you usually carry?

I normally use a practical everyday bag with enough space for my essentials. I’m not particularly interested in having lots of different bags for different occasions.

Q2. What do you usually keep in your bag?

The usual essentials—my phone, wallet, keys and a few personal items. If I’m going out for longer, I’ll add a charger and sometimes a bottle of water.

Q3. Do you prefer small or large bags?

Somewhere in between. Tiny bags look nice, but they’re not very practical, while huge ones encourage me to carry half my life around.

Q4. Have you ever lost a bag?

Thankfully, no. I’ve misplaced individual items, but losing an entire bag would be a serious headache because so many important things are usually inside.

Ideas: convenience..., organisation..., fashion..., practicality.

Vocabulary: spacious, compact, essentials, shoulder bag, belongings, carry around.

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18. SMALL CELEBRATIONS

Q1. Do you enjoy small celebrations?

Absolutely. I actually prefer them to huge events because they feel more relaxed and personal. You can properly talk to people instead of spending the whole time dealing with arrangements.

Q2. What do people usually celebrate in your family?

Mostly birthdays, achievements and small family milestones. We don’t need a huge occasion; sometimes simply getting everyone together is enough.

Q3. Do you prefer celebrating at home or outside?

Usually at home because it’s more comfortable and flexible. We can eat what we like, talk for as long as we want and avoid the pressure of sticking to a schedule.

Q4. Have celebrations changed compared with your childhood?

Quite a bit. Celebrations seem more elaborate now, partly because people share everything online. When I was younger, they were generally simpler and more focused on family.

Ideas: intimacy..., family..., social media..., simplicity.

Vocabulary: milestone, get-together, low-key, intimate, elaborate, memorable occasion.

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19. BEING ORGANISED

Q1. Are you an organised person?

I’d say I’m fairly organised, especially when something is important. I like knowing what needs to be done rather than trying to remember everything at the last minute.

Q2. How do you organise your day?

I usually have a rough plan rather than scheduling every minute. I prioritise the most important tasks first and leave some breathing room because unexpected things always come up.

Q3. What happens when you are not organised?

I become noticeably more stressed. Even simple tasks start feeling overwhelming when I don’t have a clear idea of where to begin.

Q4. Were you more or less organised as a child?

Definitely less organised. I was much more spontaneous and relied heavily on other people reminding me about things. I gradually became more structured as my responsibilities grew.

Ideas: planning..., productivity..., stress..., responsibility.

Vocabulary: prioritise, schedule, structured, spontaneous, last-minute, breathing room, stay on top of.

20. LOCAL MARKETS

Q1. Do you enjoy visiting local markets?

Yes, particularly when I have time to wander around. They have a completely different atmosphere from supermarkets, and I enjoy seeing fresh produce and talking to sellers.

Q2. What do people usually buy at markets?

Mostly fresh food, clothes, household items and sometimes handmade products. The variety can be surprisingly good, especially if you know which stalls are reliable.

Q3. Are markets popular where you live?

Yes, especially at weekends. People enjoy them because they’re affordable and lively, and many shoppers like supporting local sellers.

Q4. Do you think markets will remain popular in the future?

I think so, although they’ll probably have to adapt. People increasingly value convenience, but there’s still something appealing about buying directly from a local seller.

Ideas: atmosphere..., affordability..., local economy..., fresh produce.

Vocabulary: stall, vendor, fresh produce, bargain, handmade, local seller, bustling.

21. OLD THINGS

Q1. Do you keep old things?

I keep a few things that have some personal meaning, but I’m not particularly sentimental about everything. If something is completely useless, I’d rather get rid of it.

Q2. Is there anything old in your home that you particularly like?

Yes, there are a few family belongings that have been passed down over the years. They’re valuable mainly because of the stories attached to them rather than their price.

Q3. Why do people keep old possessions?

Often because they have emotional value. An ordinary object can remind someone of a person, place or period of their life, so throwing it away can feel surprisingly difficult.

Q4. Do you think people keep too many things nowadays?

In some cases, yes. Cheap products are so easy to obtain that people accumulate things without thinking about whether they actually need them.

Ideas: memories..., sentiment..., clutter..., consumerism.

Vocabulary: keepsake, heirloom, sentimental value, clutter, accumulate, attachment.

22. PHOTOGRAPHS

Q1. Do you often take photographs?

Quite often, particularly when I’m travelling or spending time with family. I don’t photograph absolutely everything, though; I prefer keeping pictures of moments that actually mean something.

Q2. Do you prefer taking photos or looking at old photos?

Probably looking at old ones. It’s funny how a single photograph can bring back details you’d completely forgotten about, including the atmosphere of that particular day.

Q3. Do you keep printed photographs?

I have a few, although most of my pictures are digital now. Printed photos feel more permanent, so I tend to keep them for particularly important memories.

Q4. Why do people take so many photos nowadays?

Smartphones have made photography effortless. People can capture something instantly, and sharing it with friends is almost automatic, so there’s very little barrier to taking pictures.

Ideas: memories..., technology..., permanence..., sharing.

Vocabulary: snapshot, capture a moment, printed copy, digital archive, memorable, preserve memories.

23. PERSONAL SPACE

Q1. Do you like having your own space?

Definitely. I don’t need a huge amount of space, but I like having somewhere I can sit quietly without being interrupted. It helps me switch off after a busy day.

Q2. Do you feel uncomfortable in crowded places?

Sometimes, particularly when people are standing extremely close to me. A busy place itself doesn’t bother me as much as having no personal space.

Q3. Do people need more personal space nowadays?

I think so, especially because modern cities are becoming increasingly crowded. Having even a small private area can make a noticeable difference to people’s comfort.

Q4. Is personal space important at work or school?

Yes, although it depends on the environment. People need opportunities to collaborate, but they also need enough privacy to concentrate without constant interruptions.

Ideas: privacy..., comfort..., concentration..., crowded cities.

Vocabulary: personal boundary, privacy, crowded, confined, uninterrupted, breathing space.

24. DAILY DECISIONS

Q1. Do you make many decisions every day?

Countless small ones, actually. What to eat, what to wear, what to do first—most of them are automatic, but they still add up by the end of the day.

Q2. Are you good at making decisions quickly?

For simple things, yes. When something has long-term consequences, though, I prefer taking my time rather than making a snap decision and regretting it later.

Q3. Do you ask other people for advice?

Sometimes, particularly when I’m too close to the situation to think objectively. I don’t necessarily follow the advice, but another perspective can highlight something I’ve overlooked.

Q4. Have your decisions changed as you have grown older?

Definitely. I’ve become more cautious about long-term consequences. I used to focus mainly on what felt right at the time, whereas now I tend to think several steps ahead.

Ideas: routine..., experience..., consequences..., advice.

Vocabulary: snap decision, weigh up options, perspective, consequence, overlook, think ahead.

25. FREE TIME AT HOME

Q1. What do you usually do in your free time at home?

I usually watch something, read or simply sit down and do absolutely nothing for a while. After a busy day, having some unstructured time can be more relaxing than having another activity planned.

Q2. Do you prefer spending free time alone or with others?

A mixture works best for me. I enjoy socialising, but I also need some quiet time to recharge, especially after a hectic week.

Q3. Did you spend your free time differently when you were younger?

Yes, much more actively. I spent more time playing outside and meeting friends spontaneously. These days, home entertainment makes it incredibly easy to stay indoors.

Q4. Do you think people have enough free time nowadays?

Probably not. Modern life is convenient in many ways, but people are constantly connected and often feel pressure to stay productive. Genuine downtime can be surprisingly difficult to protect.

Ideas: relaxation..., hobbies..., socialising..., digital entertainment..., work-life balance.

Vocabulary: downtime, unwind, recharge, unstructured time, hectic, stay indoors, switch off.