Part 1 (Introduction)

1. What was your favorite subject at school?
"My favorite subject was English Literature. I was fascinated by how authors could convey such deep meanings through metaphors and storytelling. It also allowed me to develop my analytical skills and explore different perspectives."

2. Did you have a teacher who inspired you?
"Yes, my history teacher was incredibly passionate about his subject, which made the lessons very engaging. He would often go beyond the textbook, bringing in real-life stories and visual aids to help us understand the context better."

3. How important is education in your country?
"Education is considered very important in my country. There's a strong emphasis on academic achievement, and parents often encourage their children to pursue higher education, as it is seen as a pathway to a successful career."

4. How do students in your country usually spend their time outside of school?
"Students tend to be quite busy with extracurricular activities such as sports, music classes, and additional tutoring. There’s a culture of self-improvement, so many spend their free time working on their hobbies or learning new skills."

5. Do you think learning a foreign language is useful? Why?
"Definitely. Learning a foreign language is not just about communication; it opens doors to understanding different cultures, enhances cognitive skills, and can even provide better career opportunities. It also allows you to connect with people from diverse backgrounds."

Part 2 (Long Turn)

Describe a memorable experience you had at school. You should say:

• When and where it happened
• What exactly happened
• How you felt about it And explain why it is memorable for you.

Response:

"One of my most memorable experiences at school happened during my final year of secondary school. We had a science fair, and my team and I decided to create a model of a hydroelectric dam. It was an ambitious project that required a lot of research, teamwork, and even some engineering skills.

We spent weeks gathering materials, designing the model, and figuring out how to make it function properly. On the day of the fair, we presented our project to the entire school, and I remember feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. To our surprise, we ended up winning the first prize. It was an extremely rewarding experience, not only because of the recognition but also because it taught me the value of collaboration and perseverance.

This experience is so memorable to me because it was a moment of achievement and also a turning point in how I approached problem-solving and working with others. It reinforced my passion for science and innovation, and it remains a cherished memory."

Part 3 (Discussion)

1. Do you think all school subjects are equally important?
"While all school subjects have their merits, I think some are inherently more essential than others, depending on the individual's future goals. Core subjects like mathematics and languages lay foundational skills that are broadly applicable, whereas subjects like art or music might be more important for those who wish to pursue a career in those fields. A balanced curriculum is key, but it should also allow students to specialize based on their strengths and interests."

2. How has education changed in recent years in your country?
"Education has undergone quite a transformation, particularly with the incorporation of technology in the classroom. There's a greater emphasis on digital literacy, and students are now using tablets, online resources, and even e-learning platforms as part of their education. Additionally, there's been a shift towards developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills rather than just memorizing facts, which I believe is a positive change."

3. What do you think is the role of teachers in students' lives?
"Teachers play a vital role in shaping not only the academic but also the personal development of their students. They serve as mentors, guiding students through various challenges, providing motivation, and helping them develop life skills such as discipline, time management, and empathy. A great teacher can inspire and leave a lasting impact on a student’s life, far beyond the classroom."

Key Vocabulary and Pronunciation