-

Part 2 Pari 2 89

TOPIC CARD I TOPIC CARD 2

Describe how to usc a piece of eq uipment. Describe a member of your family who are very
You should say : close to.
• how often you use it You should say:
• what you use it for • who he/she is
• what you can do to be able to use il for a • in what ways you are like hinvher
long time • how you differ from himlher
• and explain how to use iV' its • and ex plain why yOll are so close to
software/programmes/etc. him/her.

TOPIC CARD 3 TOPIC CARD 4

Describe someone that you admire. Describe a situation where you tound yourself
You should say: dealing with someone who didn ' llike you.
• who he/she is YOli should say:

• why you admire him/her • who he/she was

• when YOll first saw him/ her • why he/she didn't like yOll
• and expla in how he/she has influenced the
way you think.
• how your behaviour was
• and explain what his or her reaction was.

TOPIC CARD 5 TOPIC CARD 6

Describe a useful website that you have visited. Describe a gift you ha ve received that was
You should say: important to you.
• what it was You should say:
• how you found the address • who gave it to you
• what it contains • on what occasion it was given to you
• and explain why it was lis useful to you. • how yOll would describe it.
• and say why it is important to you.

TOPIC CARD 7 TOPIC CARD 8

Describe a room that yOLL like. Describe an exam experience you had'.
You should say: You should say:
• which room it is • what the exam was
• what makes this room special • how hard you studied
• what it looks like • how you relt the day of the exam
• and expla in how you fe el when you are io • and say whether YOli passed the exam or
that room. noL

- - -- - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ,
90 Part 2

TOPIC CARD 9 TOPIC CARD 10

Describe a popular person who lives in your Talk about your favourite free time activity.
neighbourhood. You should say:
You should say: 0 when you first started it
0 who helshe is 0 how otten you do it
0 when you first met him/her 0 whether you would like to do it on your
0 how you would describe hislher character own or with others
0 and say what the reason of his/her 0 and explain what you like about it.
popularity is.

TOPIC CARD I I TOPIC CARD 12

Describe a dish that you know how to make. Talk about the best city/country that you have been
You should say: to.
0 if it is difficult to prepare You shou ld say:
0 how much time it takes to be prepared 0 where it was
0 what the ingredients are 0 how long you were there
0 and explain how it is prepared. 0 what you like or dislike about it
0 and say if you would like to travel again.

TOPIC CARD 13 TOPIC CARD 14

Describe your favourite piece of clothing. Talk about one of your friends.
You should say: You should say:
0 what it is and when you bought it 0 how long you have known each other
0 where you bought it from 0 how you met
0 why yo u decided to buy it 0 how you spend time together
0 and explain why it is your favourite. 0 and explain why thi s person is so special to
you.

TOPIC CARD 15 TOPIC CARD 16

Describe the process of getting a job in your Describe a serious problem in your hometown/cily.
country . You should say:
You should say: 0 what it is
0 what options are available to a job seeker 0 what has caused this problem
0 what documents are usually required 0 what can be done about it
0 what stages are involved 0 and explain why you think it is serious.
0 and explain how this process could be
improved.

...
 91

TOPIC CARD l7 TOPIC CARD l8

I .
I Talk about your favou nte actor/actress. Talk about an important festival or national holiday
IYou should say: in your co untry.
I • who he/she is You should say:
I • what hislher best film is • when it is celebrated
I • what he/she looks like • how it is held
• and explain what you like most about • if it symbolises something
him/her. • and expla in why it is so specia l to you.

TOPIC CARD 19 TOPIC CARD 20

'I Describe a spec ial occasion when you had a real ly Describe 11 place where you go shopping for
enjoyable meal. c lothes.
You should say: You should say:
. what the occasion was for • where it is
I • who was at the meal • how often you shop for clothes
• what was served, and you ate • how yOll choose what to buy
• and explain why you fo und the meal so • and exp lain why you choose to go there.
enjoyable.

TOPIC CARD 2l TOPIC CARD 22

I Describe a TV programme that you have seen and Describe a beautiful work of art that you have secn.
11hat interested you. You should say :
You should say: • what it is
• when and where you saw the programme • where and when you saw it
• what happens during the programme • how you would describe it
• what you felt about the programme • and exp lain what makes it impressive.
• and explain why you enjoyed the
programme so mllch.

TOPIC CARD 23 TOPIC CARD 24

I
IDescribe a game that you have played and cnjoyed. Talk about your hometown.
You should say: You should say:
• what the name of the game is • where the most crowded area in your
• when you last played the game hometown is
• how you felt when you played it • what your advice is for someone intending
• and explain why you fou nd it so enj oyable. lO visit your hometown
• how it could be a better place for tourists.
• how you sec your hometown growing in the
next 20 years.
 TOPIC CARD 25 TOPIC CARD 26

Describe the happiest person you know. Describe a picturel photo that you like.
You should say You should say:
• how you know him/her • what the picture! photo depicts
• how he/she looks like • when the picture/photo dates from
• how yO li would describe his/her character • how the picture makes you feel
• and expla in why yO li consider himfhcr as • and explain what makes this picture/photo
the happiest person you know. so special to yOLl.

TOPIC CARD 27 TOPIC CARD 28

Describe the most important thing you learned at Talk about your favourite season.
school /col legc. You should say:
You should say: • what you like most about this season
• what it was • how it is difTerent from other seasons
• when and where you learned it • if your daily activities are difTerent in this
• how you were taught season
• and explain why you consider it so • and explain what it is like in your country.
important.

TOPIC CARD 29 TOPIC CARD 30

Talk about an important phone call that you Describe a school which you went 10.
received. You shall Id say:
You should say: • when you went there, and how long you
• who called you spent there
• where you were at that moment • what the school was like
• what you were told • how many students it had
• and explai n why you consider it as an • and explain whal you liked or disliked
important call. about it.

TOPIC CARD 31 TOPIC CARD 32

Describe an important event in your life. Talk about a lime when you had to make a difficult
You should say: decision.
• when it happened You should say:
• what happencd exactly • what you had to do
• how it afTected your life • why you consider it as difficult, and what
• and explain how you feel aboul it now. the outcome was
• ifit changed your life
• and explain how you fell about it.
-
Part 2 Part 2 93

TOPIC CARD 33 TOPIC CARD 34

Describe a lime when yo u lost something. Talk about an activity that you do to stay healthy
You should say: (diet, some kind of physical exercise, etc.)
• what it was You s hou ld say:
• where and when you lost it • what you do exactly
• how important it was • when you startcd this particular activity
oto • and explain what you did to find it when • how it has affected your life
you realised it was mi ssing. • and explain what benefits you get from this
act ivity.

TOPIC CARD 35 TOPIC CARD 36

I
Talk about your country.
, You should say:
Describe a film that had a great impression on you.
You s hould say:
• what cities have the most number of • when and whcre you saw it
lOurists • what type of film it is
lis • what your advice is for someone planning • what happens in the film
to visit your country. • and explain why you found it so
ry. • what could be done to attract more number impressive.
of tourists.
• and explain what changes you think your
count mi ht see in tourist industr

TOPIC CARD 37 TOPIC CARD 38

Talk about colours. Describe a zoo or a wi ldlife park that you have
You should say: visited.
If certain colours make you fee l happier You should say:
• If your favourite colour changed as you • where it is located
have grown older • when you went there
• what colours you think look good on you • how you fclt about it
• and say if there is a colour that you don ' t • and ex plai n if you want to vis it it again.
like.

TOPIC CARD 39 TOPIC CARD 40

Describe your neigbourhood that you live in. Describe a happy event in your childhood.
You should say: You should say:
• how long you have Iived there • what happened exactly
• what it is like • where it happened
• what you like or dislike about it • how you liked it
• and explain how it could be improved. • and exp lain if it affected your life.
 94 Part 2

TOPIC CARD 4 1 TOPIC CARD 42

:I

Describe the process of getting a driving license in Ta lk about something that you have createdl made.
your country. You shou ld say:
You should say: • what it was
• what organisation is responsibl e • when you created! made it
• what qua lificatio ns o r documents you need • how long it took you La make/create it
(0 offer 10 apply for • and ex plain why you decided to create!
• what stages are involved make it.
• and explain how you are tested.

TOPIC CARD 43 TOPIC CARD 44

Describe a day yO LI spent in the counlry. Describe a fu nny thing which happened to you.
You should say: You should say:
• where and when you went • where and when it happened
• who you went w ith • what happened exactly
• what you did • why you consider it as a fu nny memory
• and say what makes it worth remembering. • and explain how you feel about it now.

TOPIC CARD 45 TOPIC CARD 46

Describe a situation in which you were Talk about your personality.

embarrassed. You shou ld say:
You should say: • what kind of person yOll were as a teenager
• when it took place • who has been the mosl important person in your
• where it took place self- improvement
• what happened exactly and what you did • which of your qualities you would like to pass
• and explain why you consider it as an down to your children
embarrassing memory. • and exp lain what you do to improve your
personal ity.

TOPIC CARD 47 TOPIC CARD 48

Talk about an important day in your life. Ta lk about your fa vourite sportsman/sportswoman.
You shou ld say: You should say:
• when it was • who he/she is
• whether you were alone or with others • what his/her s port field is
• what happened exactly • what is special about him/her
• and say why th is day was important to you, • and say how popu lar he/she is.
and if it changed your life.

-
-
art 2 Part 2 95

TOPIC CARD 49 TOPIC CARD 50

jc. Describe a wedding you have been to or heard Describe a s kill you want to learn .
from. You should say:
You should say: • what it is
• where the party was • why you thi nk it is important
• whose party it was • how you want to learn it
• what the wedding was like • and explain how it will help you in fut ure.
• and explai n how you fe lt about this
wedding.

TOPIC CARD 5 1 TOPIC CARD 52

Talk about a sit uation in which you laughed a lot. Talk abo ut you r favou rite/a famous writer.
YOll should say: You should say:
• when it was • who he/she is
• where it was • what he/she usually writes about
• who you were with • what he/she is famo us for
• and explain why you laughed so much. • and explain what you like most about his or
her works.

TOPIC CARD 53 TOPIC CARD 54

Describe a tOllrist attraction that yOll have visited. Describe a trad itional garment from your COllntry.
You should say: You should say:
• where il is located • what it is, and made of
~u r • what il is famo us for • whether it is worn only 0 11 special
• what yOll can see there now occasions or not
s • and exp lain what you like most about it. • how you would you describe it
• and expla in what you like most about it.

TOPIC CARD 55 TOPIC CARD 56

Describe a celebration you attended and enjoyed. Talk about a song or a piece of music that you like.
You should say: You should say:
• where it was celebrated • what type of music it is
• what the purpose o f the celebration was • where you first heard it
• who you celebrated with, and describe • w ho tbe singer/performer is
some activiti es that you did as part of the • and exp lain what sort of effect it has on
celebration you; why you like it.
• and explain why it was so enjoyable for
you.
---- ------- -- -- -- - - - --- - - -- ------ .
 TOPIC CARD 57 TOPIC CARD 58

Talk about a domestic animall pet which is usually Desc ribe a competition/contest that you have
kept by the people of your country. entered.
You should say: You should say:
• what it is • when and where it took place
• what it looks like • what you were expected to do
• what you like! don' t like about it • if you did it well.
• and explain how people in your country • and explain how you felt about it.
generally feel about it

TOPIC CARD 59 TOPIC CARD 60

Describe your journey to college or work. Descri be a product that you buy regularly.
You should say: YOLL should say:
• what fonns of transport you usually use • where you usually buy it from
• how long it usually takes • how you would desc ribe it
• how you usually spend your time whi le • what you do wilh it
traveling • and explain what makes it different from.
• and explain how you would make your other products.
journey more pleasant if you could.

TOPIC CARD 61 TOPIC CARD 62

Describe a place you have visited that really Describe a picnic that you had
impressed you You should say:
You should say: • where you went
• where it was • who you were with
• what it is used for • how you would describe it
• what it look s like • and explain what you like about it.
• and expla in why you find th is place
particularly impressive.

TOPIC CARD 63 TOPIC CARD 64

Describe a particular situation in which you were Talk about your personal ity.
successful. You should say:
You should say: • what are you most frequently criticised for
• what it was • what your greatest strength is
• what you did • how would a close friend describe you
• how you felt after achieving this success • and explain what things about vo"~elf
• and explain ifit changed your life. would you most like to improve.

r _

t $
-
'12 Part 2
97

TOPIC CARD 65 TOPIC CARD 66

Describe how you behaved in a stressful situation. Talk about one of your future plans.
You should say: You should say:
• where and when it happened • what you want to do
• what happened exactly • how you intend to achieve it
• how you behaved • when you think you will do it
• and exp lain how you felt about your • and explain how it will help you.
reaction afterwards.

TOPIC CARD 67 TOPIC CARD 68

Describe a market or shopping centre thai you like. Describe a trip you have taken recently.
You should say: You should say:
• where it is and what is it like • where yOl~ went
• how frequently you go there • who you went with
• what sort ofthings are sold there • what you saw and did on your trip
• and say what you like most about il • and explain what makes it worth
remembering.

TOPIC CARD 69 TOPIC CARD 70

Describe a TV or a billboard advertising that you Describe a course that you have taken and found
found effective. useful.
You should say: You should say:
• where you saw it • what kind of course it was
• what it was advertising • where you did it
• how different it was from other • what aspects of the course you found
advertisements particularly useful
• and explain why you think it was eITcctive • and explain what makes this course
different from the other courses you have
taken.

TOPIC CARD 71 TOPIC CARD 72

Describe a transport problem in your town/city. Talk about something which annoys you.
You should say: You should say:
r • what the problem is • what it is
• what the main causes are • how it annoys you
• how it affects you • what you usually do to cope with it
• and explain how you think this problem can • and explain why it is so annoying.
be addressed.
 98 ParI 2

TOPIC CARD 73 TOPIC CARD 74 ;1

Talk about your favourite day of week. Describe a popular food from your country.
Vou should say : You should say:
• what you like about this day • what it is I
• if your daily activilies are different • how often you eal it
• what makes this day different from other • what the main ingredients arc
days. • and say ifit is served only on special
• and say if you have a good memory of th is occaSions.
day.

TOPIC CARD 75 TOPIC CARD 76

Talk about a pet that you or someone yO lL know Describe a time when you worked hard and felt a
once had. great sense of achievement.
You should say: Vou should say:
• what kind oranima l it was • what you did I
• what you liked/ didn't like about it, and • what made you try so much
why _ • iranyone helped you I
• how people in you r country generally feci • and explain why you consider it as an
about it. achievement. I
• and explain what kind of animal makes a
good Det.

TOPIC CARD 77 TOPIC CARD 78

I
Describe a leisure activity that is popular in your Talk about the emai ls you write to a particular II
country. person.
You should say: You should say:
• where it is done • who you email or write to
• if you do i1 yourself • what you llsually write about
• what you like aboul this activity • how often you emai l
• and explain why it is so popular. • and explain why you send email to this
person. I,

TOPIC CARD 79 TOPIC CARD 80

Describe a situation where yOll had to work with a Describe a music video or a concert that you have I
difficult principal, professor, supcrvisor, etc. recent ly seen.
You should say:
• who helshe was
You should say:
• who the singer/ performer was
r
• what he/she was like • what kind of music il was or, was
• what YOll had to do perfonned
• and explain what yo u did to manage the • what the music was like
situation. • and explain how you feel about it.

. - - -
Part 2 99

TOPIC CARD 81 TOPIC CARD 82

Descri be the happiest day of your life. Describe a memorable sporting even llhat you
You shou ld say: participated in or watched.
• when il was Yo u should say:
• who was there • what the event was
• what happened exactly • when and where it took place
• and ex plain what made it such a happy day. • what makes it memorable
• and explain how you fe lt aboullhe evenl.

TOPIC CARD 83 TOPIC CARD 84

Describe a restaurant you enjoy eating in. Describe the best workp lace that you have ever had.
You sHou ld say: You should say:
• what the name of the restaurant is, and • where it was
how often you go there • what you were doing there
• what kind of food is served • what yOll particularly like about Ihis place
• what you usuall y order • and say how you wou ld improve it.
• and expla in why you choose to eat there.

TOPIC CARD 85 TOPIC CARD 86

Describe a personal possession that is important to Describe your earliest memory of sport.
you. You should say:
You shou ld say: • when it was
• what it is • what yOll did
• how long yOll have had it • whether you still do that kind of sport or
• how yo u use it not
• and expla in why it is so important for you. • and explain how you fee l about it now.

TOPIC CARD 87 TOPIC CARD 88

Describe Ihe most significant failu re you have had Describe an important book you have read.
in the lasl five years. You should say:
You should say: • what the title of Ihe book is. and who it was
• what it was wri tten/compiled by
• ifit has affected your life • when and where you read it
• how you feel about it now • what it was aboul, and why you decided to
• and ex plain why you consider it as failure. read it
• and say why you consider it as important.
 100 Part 1

TOPIC CARD 89 TOPIC CARD 90

Describe a museum that you have visited. Describe a newspaper Imagazinc article that you
You should say: found interesting or useful.
• where it is located and what ki nd of YOLI should 5<1y:
museum il is • where and when yOll rcad it
• what specific things you can see there • what il was about
• how you would cOmpare it with other • how it made you feel, or influenced you.
museums you have visited. • and explain why yOll found it interesting or I
• and exp lain what you particularly
remember about it.
useful. I
TOPIC CARD 91 TOPIC CARD 92

Talk about your earliest memory of learn ing Ta lk about an important news item th"t you have
English. heard recently.
You shou ld say: You should say:
• when it was • what it was about
• who you r tcacher was • how yo u leam ed about it
• whether you found it easy or difficult when • how it m"de you feel
learning • and explai n why you consider it as
• and explain how you feel about it now, important.

TOPIC CARD 93 TOPIC CARD 94

Talk about shopping. Describe the joh you have, or hope to have.
• how much time you spcnd shopping every You should say:
week • what it is and involves
• what time of the day you prefer to go • what quali fi cations lexperience it requires
shopping and why • what led you to' choose it
• where you usua ll y do your s hopping • and explain what features make it different
• and say whether you enjoy window- from other jobs.
shopping or not.

TOPIC CARD 95 TOPIC CARD 96

Describe a situation when you had to gain Describe an importa nt conversation that yOll have
coopcration from a team. (Work. university, etc) had.
You should say YOll should say:
• what it was • whom you had the conversation with
• where and when it was • where and when the conversation took
• who you worked wilh place
• and say if you enjoyed working as the part • what it was about, and why il was
of the team. important to you
• and explain how you feel about it now.

"
 Part 2 101

TOPIC CARD 97 TOPIC CARD 98

IDescribe a recent family gathering. Describe the best holiday you have had.
You should say: YOLI should say:
• where and w hen it was • where you went
• who the host was • if you were alone, if not, w ho wi th

I •
•
what it was like, and what you did
and explain what you liked about it.
• what you did on holiday
• and expla in why you call it as your best
holiday.
1

; TOPIC CARD 99 TOPIC CARD 100

I

IDescribe a film that you found really boring. Descri be a building w hich you find interesting.
You should say : You s hould say:
• when you saw it • where it is located
1 • what type of fi lm it was • how old it is
• what happens in the film • how you would describe it ( In terms of,
I • and exp lain why you found it so boring. structure, arc hitecture ... )
• and explain why you find this building
I particularly interesting.

1NOTES :

I .................. . ............................................................... . ......... . . ........ . .. ......... .

I············· ····· ····· .. ········ .. ·················· ·..................... ..... .................. ..... ...... .

I .. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ..
1 ... .. .............. .. ........ . ......... . . . ......... .. ....... . . ... ...... .. . ......... ...... .... ........ ..... ....... .

I ····················· ·········· ····················· ............... ..... ........... ...... ....... ..... ...... .... .
................ .. ... .....
.. ... ... .. ... .. .... . . ..
I··..· · ........ ........ .
107

TOPIC CARD 1

Describe how to use a piece of equipment.

You should say:
• how o ften you use it
• what you use it for
• what you can do to be able to use it fo r a
long time
• an d explain how to use it ( its software/
programmes lete).

PREPARATION T II\'\1:.: 1 ,\·lINun

Ci\ND IDATE'S NOTES

Laptop. everyday
Dictionary, audio, video
Recharge , antj ~v jrus
Connect, instructions

LEi':GTI [OF TIME: 1-2 MINUTES

I'm go ing to talk about someth ing you Illay well be fami liar with ; a laptop. I usc my own laptop
everyday. In fact, using my laptop has become part ormy everyday life. J have lots of educational
software in my com puter system; di cti onaries, audio and video programmes. Well , to make the best use
I
of a laptop, there are quite a few things to take care of. First of a ll , you should a lways remember 10
I
recharge the batteries before they die or have a good anti-virus to protect your computer from virus and I
bugs. As you know, there arc numerous tasks that a comput er can perform, but what I've chosen to talk I
about is how to dow nl oad a programme. Of course, the time spent to download a software or file
depends on a number of things, suc h as you r compute r power, connection speed, programme size and
other factors. The first step is quite obv ious; to get connccted. The second stage is to go to the website
you want to download from . Follow the site's particular download instructions. T his usually varies from
site to si tc, but most sites have so me type of 'Download Now' button that you can click on. Instructions
are different, but in genera l you are asked where you want the programme saved or in sta lled. Select a
location on your computer, then click 'Next' or 'O K'. An install ation pop-up box appears; showing files
are being install ed. You may be asked to restart your computer.
PUI2 103

TOPIC CARD 2

Describe a member of you r family who arc very

cl ose to.
You should say:
• who he/she is
• in what ways you are like him/her
• how you differ from him/her
• and expl ain why you arc so close to
him/her.

PREPA RATION T I]\IE: I MIN UTF

CANDIOATES NOTES

My sister, [ ...1
Personality, films , major
Looks; height. hair, skin
Personality

I.f\GTH OF TlML: l-2 ,\ 'IlN UTES

To be hon est, it's difficult for me to choose just one member of my fami ly as I do fee l close to
all of them . But if 1 had to name one . .. er. .. 1 would say my elder sister. Her name is [ .. . ].
Although she is 5 years older than me, we get along so well; we are very simi lar in personality.
We spend most of our lime together ... er. .. share the same interests and have lots of fun. For
example, we fo llow the latest mov ies, especiall y, action movies. Sometimes, we ta lk about
films for hours .... er ... Another common point is our univers ity majors; she has comp leted her
education in business and I' m st udying business too. So we have lots of things to talk about,
you know, hav in g the same major has given us the sa me outlook on life . . .er. .. by contrast,
we're totally different in looks; so unlik e that no one would ever think we are sisters! For
instance, I have dark sk in whereas she has fair skin . Or her hair is kind of curly, but my hair is
straight. The rca son why we are so close to each other is that we simpl y have the same
personality trails. We understi.ll1d eac h other because we grew up doing th ings together.
 TOPIC CARD 3

Describe someon e that you adm ire.

You should say:
• who he/she is
• w hy you admire him/11cr
• when you first saw him/her
• and explain how he/she has influenced the
way you th ink.

PR EPARATION TIME: I J\HNUTE

CA NDlDATFS NOTES
My teach er, (...J
Talented, encouraged me
20 years old
Literature and new world view

LENGTll or- TIME: 1-2 M1N UTf:S

Of course, I think very highly of a ll the tcachers that I have had. But the person whom J

particu larly adm ire is o ne of my ex -teachers from university. Her name is [ ... ]. She's such a
wonderful and talented lady whose va lues influenced me a lot. Now, she' s known as an
authority on Persian language. I had the privilege to meet her when I was twenty years o ld. She
really encou raged me to write. The reason why she is so specia l to me is th at she belped me
a lot broaden my horizons thro ug h literature and taught me how to analyse contexts and made
me love literature- that' s somethi ng reall y hard. Because I really didn 't like literature, but she
was the person that really encouraged me be interested in Persian literature. And I think I bad
the chance to have her as a teache r because she really hel ped me see the world in a different
way and expand my world view. And I think what she really brought me was th e connection
between literature and life, in the way th at they are very similar, and in the way that they can
be very different. So we interpreted life in a different way from that perspective.

r
Part 2 lOS

TOPIC CARD 4

Describe a situation where you found yourself

dealing with someone who didn't like you.
You should say:
• who he/s he was
• why helshe didn't like you
• how your behaviour was
• and say what his or her reaction was.

PREPA RATION TI ~ II:.: I MIN UTE

CANDIOATl:'S ~OT E')

A co lleague
Too young, immature
Good impression, highly professional
Apology

I.El\GTH or T!""IE: 1-2 MI~lrrr:s

When I first began work ing at (... ], I was the youngest member of the staff; about 23 years old,
and had just finished my education. On the tirst day of my work, I met an older woman who
was really familiar with the ins and outs of the place. When I was introduced by the manager of
the department, she barely acknowledged my presence, and through word of mouth I realised
that she thought that 1 was too young and immature to take up the job and be able to do my
duties successfu ll y because 1 was so inexperienced. To prove my abil ities, I did my best and
took every opportunity to make a good impression. I worked so hard and behaved in a highly
profess ional manner at all times; so motivated to get the things done successfully. After about
two week s of si lent treatment from her, she came up to me and told me how well I had worked ,
and how impressed she had been with my performance. She apologised to me for ignoring me,
shared what she knew with me and took me under her wing. In spite of the fact that she
sometimes may seem unfriendly, she's so nice at heart.
 TOPIC CARD 5

Describe a useful website that you have visi ted.

You should say:
• what it was
• how you found the address
• what it contain s
• and ex plain why it was lis useful to you.

PR[PARAT10:\l TI,\ IE: I '\'l lN UTE

CAN D JDATI:'S 1\01'ES

[... J
Through my friend
Downloadable materials
Information, updated, user~friendly , links

U :--:GT I r OF T l'\ l E: ]-2 I\ Ui'\UT ES

The website that I'm really interested in is ( ... J; one of the 1110st visited educational wcbsites.!
visit it almost everyday as it is the homepage of my computer. I found it through one ormy
friends. Once, I saw an offline message, co ntaining a link. When 1 cli cked on the link and saw
th e website, I realty found it beneficial. To describe thi s English educati onal website, I should
say, it contains lots of downloadable material s; classified vocabulary, grammar structures,
quizzes, and that sort of thing. There are many features that make thi s website different from
other websites. Firstly, it provid es a learner with lots of useful informati on, and ... cr. .. is
updated with new content at regular intervals; you can always find quality information in it.
Besides, it is very user-friendly and easy to navigat e. Another aspect is that, it has many useful
links to other sites. Last but not least, it is visually attractive and well-designed. In my opinion,
it 's such a functional website that no Engli sh learn er should miss .

...
 -
Pari 2 107

TOPIC CARD 6

Describe a gift you have rece ived that was

impo rtant to you.
You sho uld say:
• who gave il to you
• on what oct:as ion it was given to you
• w hat it looks lik e and how you use it
• and say w hy it is im portant to you.

PRI'P!\RAT ION I'I ~H:; ! MINUTE

CANDlI \A-' FS NOTES
My wife
Birthday
Si lver, rectanqular , English fil es
Gdt from a f amily member. applied

1[\{jlIlOI 'lJ\l L 1-2 ~'ll ~ :lTI:S

I I received a va luabl e g ift fr o m my w ife about three yea rs ago; o n the o ccas io n of my birthday. It
lI'a~ a fa .no us brand M P3 pl aye r; rcally o f hi gh qua lity. I was so surpri sed w hen I opened its
~ ··apring paper and saw the g ift beca use it was exactl y w hat I needed . .. cr. .. you know, to
improve Ill y English in my spare timC'. J rcally admire her fo r the choice of that gift. It is sil ver,
rectangu lar and .. . er. .. so simple in des ig n. Now , I us ua lly use this M P3 player to listen to
I English audi o liI es o n the way to my work and it reall y helps me ma ke the best use of my ti me.
h is a vcry use fu l device and ... cr ... in fa ct, one ofthc best g ifts that J have ever received so far.
h's such an importa nt g ift fo r me, for one thin g, 1 rece ived it from one of my dea rest fam il y
! ml"mbers, for another, it '~ an appli ed devi ce that can be used anywhere. Another po in t is ... er . . .
j. IC"P ving that g ift I not iced that my wife knows w hat I need to be ab le to take full ad va ntage
Iof my lime to lea rn mo re and mo re .
I
I
 108

TOPIC CARD 7

Describe a room that you like.

You should say:
• which room it is
• what makes this room special
• w hat it looks like
• an d explain how you feel when you are in
that rOOm.

PR EPARATION T IME: 1!d IN UTE

CA NDIDI\TE'S Nons
Kitchen
Meeting place
Fairly large, table , oven, fridge, board
Delighted

LE\JGTll OF Tli\\ f.~ 1-2 ~1 j \JUT[S

Well , I'd like to talk about the kitchen of our home. It's particularly important in my family.
Let me explain why. What makes thi s room spec ial is that it 's not only where we cook but also
the main meeting place for family and friends. When we have family gatherings, we all
gravitate to the kitchen. It always ends up the fullest and th e noi siest room in the house. Er. ..
it is connected to our living room. It is quite large; roughly twenty square metres ... er ... its
floor is ceramic-t iled, and ... cr. .. has many cupboards a nd lots of counter space; there are
kitchen utensils ... er. .. a chopping board, peeler, sieve, grater and other things. We have a
fridge, electric oven and washing machine in it. There is a large dining table in the centre
which serves a dual purpose, you know, a cupboard and a table . We usually eat at thi s table.
There is a large bulletin board on the wall used for our daily shopping lists and new recipes.
There are also some pictures and paintings all this board that we have many good memories of:
telli ng the story of our lives; past, present and even future! [l ove the kitchen of our home and
feel delighted when I'm there. Its ambience is bright and so inviting. Without a doubt, some of
the happiest times of my life have been spent in our kitchen.
 Part 2 109

TOPIC CARD 8

Describe an exam experience you had.

You should say:
• what the exam was
• how hard you studied
• how you fe lt the day of the exam
• and say whether you passed the exam or
not.

PR EPARATION T II\IE: I ~'II N UTI;

CANDIDATE'S NOTES
Math
So hard ,
Confident, relaxed
Pass

If},GTH OF TIM E: )-2 MINUTES

I'd !ike to talk abo ut the math exam that 1 took when I was a uni vers ity freshman.
IEr... to be honest, I was kind of weak in math subj ects, and ... er ... what made the matter worse
was my job. You know, during my uni versity years, I had a part time job and it was always a
challenge to leave my work and be present in the classes. I wa s awfu lly be hind my lessons.
But for the fi nal exam, I promised myself to do my best and get through the exam at any price. 1
spent lots of time go ing for every detail; study ing and working out many activities to get ready
for the exam . You know, building yourself up to a peak performance on the exam day is so
! Important in any tests, and luck hardly comes into it. By the way, on the day of the exam, I was
so confident, relaxed and motivated ; needless to say I had decided to ace the exam. To make a
Ilong story short, I just sat down on the c hair a nd tumed the exam paper. .. Gosh! ... 1 couldn 't
believe my eyes! it was a ll about chemistry not math ematics. I had gotten the date of the exam
Imixed up. Anyway, I did pass the math test with ease, but rai led the chem istry test!

-
110

TOPIC CARD 9

Describe someone you know who is popular in

your neighbourhood.
You should say:
• who he/she is
• when you first met him/ her
• how you would describe his/her character
• and say what the reason of hi slher
popularity is.

PRI:PARATION TIME: 1 MINUT E

CAN DIDA1'['5 NOT ES

Doctor
Six years ago
Committed , witty
Good doctor, kind, caring

lJNGTH 0 1- T[,\ IE: 1-2 M INUTE.S

Well , the person I am going to tell you about is our local doctor; the heart and soul of
neighbourhood. In fact, he 's ... um ... a friend of mine; quite a good friend. I met him in the
week we moved to the area that we are living in, because we'd been living in the north
and had to move because of my job, and that was about six years ago. Er. . . once I had a
headache and went to the clinic of our neighbourhood and he happe ned to be there, so he
introduced himself as the doctor and we started chatting and became good friends straight
away. What really impressed me was hi s sense of commitment. E r. .. whenever people are 111
trouble, he's ready to help. Er. .. He strikes me as the happiest person 1 know. He is so witt)'
and has a good sense of humour. .. er. ... he can always make people laugh even when they are
not feeling well ... so they start to feel better right away. The reason why r think he is so likable
is that he is really a good doctor and appreciated for it in the whole neighborhood. I thin~
everybody knows he's very kind and a caring person, so we all tru st him and fee l lucky to have
him as our physician. He 's truly a great person to know.
Pari 2 III

TOPIC CARD 10

Talk about your favourite rree time acti vi ty.

You shou ld say:
• when you first started it
• how often you do it
• whether you would like to do it on your
own or with others
• and exp lain what you li ke about it.

PK EPARI\Tl0N TIME I lvllNUTE

CANDIDATE'S NOTES
Tennis, 10
Twice, 3 times a month
With friends
Energetic, strategy, pace

If\GrH OF T1M~~ 1-2 MJr-.;UTES

Personally, I'm very sporty, but my most fa vourite sport has to be ten ni s which I've been playing
forthe last fifteen years. I first started it when I was at the age often. I can vividly remember the
first time that I went to a tennis club and saw the tennis players. Yes, that was that! Now, I' m a
good tenni s player myself. But of course, it's a bit rusty th ese days. Unfortunately, I'm very busy
with university lessons so I can hardl y spare time for it. But believe me, if I coul d, I would play
everyday ... cr ... ! usually play twice or three times a month. I have some friends who are so good
at tennis. We usually go to a club called [ .. .] ... er ... near ou r home. It has a great tennis court. Why
do [ like it so much? Because it's such an energet ic sport whi ch allows us to release tension and
take our mind off things when we are busy- minded. Another poin t is that I don' t consi der it on ly
as a sport. To me , it's a game of strategy and pace. When something isn' t worki ng in the fi rst set,
you have to change your strategy fo r the second set. You also have to save your energy in case
you go to the third set, and constantly watch and read your opponent's reaction ... er ... and what
keeps me going and playi ng? That ' s simply feel ing fresher, fitter and healthier.
 TOPIC CARD 11

Describe a dish that you know how to make .

You shou ld say:
• if it is difficult to prepare
• how much time it takes to be prepared
• what the ingredients are
• and expla in how it is prepared.

PRFPA RATJON T IM E: I MINUTE

CANDIDATFS NOTES

Joojejeh Kabab, needs skill

A few minutes
Chicken, sauce
Cut up, marinate, skewer, barbecue

LcNGTl1 O F TIM E: 1-2 ,\lI:.JlITES

Well, I'd like to talk ahout how to make my favourite food. It's called ' Joojejch Kabab', In
English, 'Barbecued Chicken Kebab'; served both on formal and casual occasions. Although
it's seems to be easy to prepare. it really needs sk ill. You know, cooking from a recipe is
always easy, but the food is hardly ever enjoyable! If everythin g is prepared, it doesn' t take too
much; only a few minutes. As we all know, a good meal shouldn't be hurried. Anyway, in
order to prepare the food, you need some chicken; it depends on the number of your guests or
family members ... er ... your favourite sauce, salt and any spice you like. First, put charcoal in
the barbecue and light it. Then cut up some chicken. Marinate the pieces for a coup le of hours
in your favourite barbecue sauce. Next, put the pieces and chops on the skewers. After that put
them on the barbecue and hlfll them over from time to time until it's gold and crispy. Finally,
take the chicken kebabs off the barbecue. It's usually served with barbecued tomatoes and
eaten either with rice or with bread. It 's so delicious. You' ll love it!
 Pari 2 113

TOPIC CARD 12

Talk about the best city/count ry that you have been

to.
You should say:
• w here you were
• how long you were there
• what you like or dislike about it
• and say if you would like to travel again.

PREPA RATION T IME I " IINUTE

CA'CDIDATE, 'Co n s
[... J
3 months
Beauty, culture, people
Definitely

If)\GTI r O f TIME: ]-2 MIN UTES

By far the most memorab le thi ng was traveling to [ .. .]. I had never been to [ ... ] before and
always wanted to. Eve n now, when I think of that, I fec i nosta lgic. I was there for about three
months . What makes thi s country different from ot her co untries is its natural beauty; the
scenery of this country is astonishingly beautiful. Much of the land in [ ... ] is still unspoiled; so
pristi ne, and is not transfomlcd like most big cities which are usually polluted. The cities of
this country are best ex plored on foot, if you ask me. Another aspect which was so interesti ng
to me was their lifestyl es. I rea lised how reall y happy people are there, eve n though they have
hardly anythi ng in comparison to our lifestyle. You can see the amazing social culture and
wonderful people who live there. They are so we lcom ing. I have a really strong passion for
[... ], and I'm definitely going to be return ing for numerous visits throughout my life .

•
 114

TOPIC CARD 13

Desc ribe your favourite pi ece of clothing.

You should say:
• what il is and when you bought it
• where you bought it fro m
• w hy yOlI decided to buy it
• and explain why it is your favourite.

PRFI';\RATIO~ TIME: I MINUT F

CAN DIDATE'S Non :s

Leather jacket, lost year,
[... J
Cold weat her, my friend's recommendation
Quality, stylish, feel confident

LEJ'GTI-I 0 .. n ,\ I F~ 1-2 ,I\ H:-JUT[S

My favourite pi ece of clothing is my leather jacket.. .cr. .. made by a fa mous design company. I
bought it last year. I wanted to buy a leather jacket because I wanted someth ing to wear when
the weather got colder. I bought it from a shop called [.. .]. It sells shoes, clothes and fashion
accessories. The store is in the main shoppin g area of the ci ty where my workplace was. My
fr iend worked at the shop so I visited him almost everyday th ere and looked at the shoes and
clothes. He helped me choose the jacket and told me what style looked best 011 mc. He also said
that the company that had made the jacket was very fa mou s and ... c r. .. always makes quality
clothes. My leather jacket is my favourite piece of clothing because it is very sty lish and goes
with almost everything in my wardrobe. It's very co mfo rtabl e and I know it looks good so I feel
confident when 1 wear it.
 Pari 2
-2 11 5

TOPIC CARD 14

Talk about one of your fri ends.

You should say:
• how long you have known each other
• how you mel eac h other
• how you spend time together
• and ex pla in w hy you li ke thi s person.

PRFPARATI ON TIM E I lvlINUTE

CAN DIDATE'S NOTES
8 years ago
School
Mountain climbing, chess
Good and bad times

lP'-lGTIl OF T1 ,\ \L 1-2 .\IlNUTtS

I'd like 10 talk about one a rmy fri ends, actuall y my best friend ; ( ... J. We've been friends

en since high 5choo1- for about 8 years, 1 guess. Er. .. We were together in school for fo ur

on years. Afte r that we cho se different majors and so we were separated in college. Yet,

y we've kept up our friendship. I think it is good today as it was then. In fact, we share lots

d of common interests, we both like outdoor activities, you know, mountain climbing,

id hiking, picnicking and that sort of thing. Also, we both ha ve passion for chess. Wow! We

ity spend hours playing chess. He 's a very special person to me; a trul y great frie nd to

Des havc ... er. .. and is not just anoth er fai r-weather friend, you know; to leave you alone when

eel you are in trouble. We all know that in times of prosperity friends are plentiful! He 's been
with me in both good and bad times, a devoted friend and .. . er. .. so trusty. Um ... both of
us are committed to this friendship and va lue it.
 116 Part 2

TOPIC CARD 15

Describe the process o f gelling a job in your

country.
You should say:
• what options are available to a job secker
• what documents are usually required
• what stages are in volved
• and explain how thi s process could be
improved.

PREPARAT!O N T!M E: 1 MINUTF

CANDII)ATE'S NOTES
Ads, employment ogency, networking
Resume, cover Jetter, copies
Exam , interview
Database

I EI'GTH 0 1- 111\1E: 1-2 ,\ II:"JUn S

In order to find a job, there are some options, for example, lookin g in the c lassified ads, going to
an empl oym ent agen cy or networking, you know, meeting and ta lking to people w ho can help
you. About what documents should be submitted ... er. .. it depends on the job, but generally
speaking, the required documents for applying a job are usually a resume, a cover letter, one or
two photos, copies of the university degree, ID card and other things. You know, in some jobs,
the applicant is required to take a written exam to make sure whether he or she is qualified
enough to meet the initial requircments of the job or not. If the candidate is ablc to pass the
exam ... cr ... is invited for an interview, mcanwhile his or her completed application is
reconsidered. Sometimes, the candidatc is offered the job on probation for a certain period of
time; six mo nths, for example. If the candidate is recommended , and the feedback which is
given by the section or department manager is positive, the applicant is invited to sign the
emp loyment form. Abo ut the last question ... er ... T should say I' m no expert, but I think a good
way to improve the current situati on is to provide peopl e with inronnation ; a database in which
all jo b o pportunities have been recorded, and can be found.

-
w
 -
Part 2 117

TOPIC CARD 16

Describe a serious problem in your hometown/city.

You should say:
• what it is
• what has caused thi s problem
• what can be done about the problem.
• and explain why you think it is serious.

PRFPARATI0 N TIME: I MIN UT E

CAND!Df\TFS N OT ES
Traffic
Cars, not enough roads, break the rules
Public transportation, carpooling, smart computer
Time, pollution

lE\GTH OF TI M[ 1-2 i\·I1 J'\UTES

I think the most critical problem of my city is hea vy traffic jams. Er ... most ma in streets are
clogged, and cars move at a snail 's pace especially in the rush hour, traffi c is at a compl ete
standstill ; bumper to bumper. There are several reasons for thi s high volume oftraflic. First o f
all, the number of private cars has increased considerabl y in the last few years and is not at all
comparable with th e number of roads built. I think the second reason is lack of attenti on to
ru les; many dri vers and pedestrians don ' t obey the traffi c rules, particularl y at busy
intersections. Of course, there are man y ways to address this issue. To the best o f my
knowledge, th e most important initiative is to improve public transportation; now, it 's really in
poor condition. Another effective so lution to relieve traffic congestion is to encourage
carpooling which contributes to the reduction of ca r users. ft' s time and money-savi ng .The
last measure to case traffi c is to appl y automated traffic management systems; designing a
system which is controll ed by a smart central computer. Traffi c is such a serio liS problem and
needs urgent attention, for one thing, lots of time is wasted in traffic jams, for another, as we
all know, there is a direct link between traffic and air pollution. Such hi gh leve l of polluti on
shouldn ' t be tolerated because it \eads to many physical, mental and environmental problems.
 118 Part 2

TOPIC CARD 17

Talk about your favourite aClOr/actress.

You should say:
• who helshe is
• w hat hislhcr best fil m is
• what helshe looks like
• and explain why helshe is your favourite.

PREP/\ RATIQN TI ~ IE: t MIN UT E

CA:'\'OIDAT FS NO"I'I:S

[ .. J
[.nJ, businessman
At hletic figure
Likeab le charact er, born actor, all roles

I ENGTH Of TIME: [-2 J\'llN UTES

I' m a big fan of[ ... ], a star or stage and screen; a superb actor. He's acted in a number of
award-winni ng films. A lso he has starred in many TV serials produced in Iran. To my mind, he
gave his fi nest performance in [ ... J;a thri ll ing film in w hich he plays the role ofa success ful
businessman- hi s best-known role. It was both a critica l success and a huge box office hit, and
made an enormous profit. To describe him, r should say, he has an ath letic figure with rugged
face; really manly. He is not onl y famous, but a lso popul ar. As we all know, fame and
popularity are different He has a likeable character ... er ... rea lly se lfl ess. I love his acting. I
believe he is a born actor; extreme ly ve rsat ile. He is at ease with all the roles given to him, and
is efficiently able to imm erse himself in characters. The interesting point is that he has done
well both in serious and comic roles, and has played a variety of parts. In sp ite of the fact he is
getting sort of stereotyped in some of his ro les, he is sti ll high ly popular because J think he has
a profess ional approach to his job. I'm sure that you' ll have the sa me opi nion if you see his
movies .

.
 Part 2 119

TOPIC CARD 18

Talk about an important festival or national holiday

in your country.
You should say:
• when it is celebratcd
• how it is celebratcd
• if it symbolises a message
• and explai n why it is so special to you.

PREPARAT ION T[Jo. I E: I .\'II N UTE

CAN DID/H E'S NOT ES

New year, spring

Cleaning houses, visiting the elders, Haftseen, sizdahbedar
Freshness
History, beliefs

[[\ GTH 01· TI ~ ll:: 1-2 Ml t'-; UTFS

To my mind,' Norooz' is the most important national fest ival in my country.

In Iranian cu lture, the coming of new year-the first day of spring is called Norooz and
celebrated by many rituals and traditions; cleaning houses •... er. .. givi ng gifts, making
resolutions and good wishes, visiting the elders, relatives and ... er. .. a great chance to renew
acquaintance with old friends. It is customary to sit around ' Haft Seen ' tablecloth, you know,
Haft Seen is a traditional tablecloth, set and decorated with seven symboli c items beginning
wi th the Persian letter 'S'. In fact, each symbolic item represents a message. The celebration
lasts for 13 days, and the last day of the ceremony is called 's izdahbedar' in which people go
for picn ics and enjoy the natural outdoors. Norooz is the celebration of life and symbolises
renewal and freshness. It is highly respected by Iranians because it represents the history,
beliefs and traditions of my country, now, it is celebrated in other countries too. 1 beli eve its
everybody's responsibility to make every effort to promote it and celebrate it as magnificently
as possible .

•
120 Part 2

TOPIC CARD 19

Describe a special occasion when you had a really

enjoyable meal.
You should say:
• what the occasion was
• who was at the meal
• what was served, and you ate
• and explain why the meal was so enjoyable.

PR EPA RATION T IM E: I ~'l1NUTE

CANDID:\ TE'S NOTES

New Year ' s Eve, new job
Family, friends
Chicken, salad, dessert, cake
Made by a chef

LE\JGTI l o r; Tlivl E 1-2 M I~UTES

I can remember having a really enjoyable meal one New Year's Eve when Ijust started my new
job at a company. I had always wanted to work for [... J; about two years after I had graduated
from university. It was on New Year's Eve and my whole family was there including my
parents, my elder brother and a couple of friends. We met up with some old school friends, it
was like a reunion. Also my mother's best friend and her son joined us. It was a highly
enjoyable occasion as most people knew each other. Also the food was great. Everybody came
to our house and brought different dishes. We ate barbecued chicken, green salad, fried and
baked potatoes. For dessert, we had plum pudding. We also had a delicious chocolate cake that
was made by the son of my mother's friend who is a chef. Wow! The party was a blast! There
were lots of excited whoops and cheers until late at night. We had a wild time; everyone talked
and there was so much laughter that sometimes we had tears corning out of our eyes. It was a
really great day with terrific food. Everybody had a wonderful time.
 ParI 2 121

TOPIC CARD 20

Describe a place where you go shopping for

clothes.
You should say:
• where yOll usually go
• how often you shop for clothes
• how YO ll choose your clothes
• and explain why you go there.

PREPARATION TIM E: I MI N UT E

CANDJDA1TS NOTE.)

[...J
Beginning of seasons
Magazines , feel comfortable , looks good
variety of clothes, time-saving

lH\CTII or TI~\'lI~ 1-2 MI:.JlITES

When r go shopping for clothes 1 usually go to [... J. You know, It is famous for its high fashion
shops as well as reasonab ly-priced outlets. I usually go there because I can buy high quality
clothes that 1 know will look good for a long time as well as cheaper items that I may only wear
for a season. I usually buy clothes at the beginning of each season because I buy clothes that arc
appropriate for the weather. Mostly, I buy clothes that I have seen in magazines and have liked.
I won't buy something that I don't like just because it is in fashion. I al so buy clothes that I feel
comfortable in and make me look good. What 1 most like about shopping in [ ... J is that I can do
all my shopping in one place. It has all the shops that 1 like as well as having a large variety of
clothes to choose from; a wide se lection of leading brands. I like it because I don't have to spend
lots of time shopping around the city to get the things I want. I'd recommend anyone who wants
to experience great shopping to go to there.