Category: Follow up

Describe a time that something changed your life in good ways

1. Is your country changing rapidly?
Yes, rapid changes are occurring in my country. India, a developing nation, is improving day by day. The advancement of technology is propelling it swiftly towards developed status. While change has always been underway, technology has accelerated the pace of this transformation.

2. What can smart phones do these days?
Smartphones, resembling mini computers that conveniently fit in our pockets, perform a myriad of tasks previously exclusive to computers. Surpassing the fundamental role of communication, these devices offer information, entertainment, and connectivity.

3. Since most people do work on their computers, why do they still need to go to the office?
Many jobs still necessitate face-to-face interaction, compelling individuals to go to the office. Additionally, completing all tasks remotely via a computer can become tedious due to the absence of the office atmosphere. Internet connectivity remains an issue in numerous locations.

4. Do you think people’s work in the future will be heavily affected by technology?
-Technology will significantly impact people’s work. Those who utilize technology can expand their network of customers or clients, leading to enhanced performance in their professional endeavors.

5. Compare the pace of technological progress in the past and in the present?
In the past, technological progress lagged behind the present pace. For instance, new inventions took time to reach people in the past, whereas today, the Internet enables instant dissemination of information about any new product in the market.

Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study that you felt proud of

1. What are the things that make people feel proud?
Their age determines it, I believe. During childhood or youth, accomplishing challenging tasks undoubtedly instills a sense of pride. For instance, securing a top rank in a competition, gaining admission to a highly-ranked university, or winning a sports match. Yet, with age, the focus shifts to their children’s accomplishments, and pride is felt when their offspring achieves milestones in life.

2. Do people often feel proud of themselves when they complete a difficult task?
Certainly! Yes, I believe a sense of achievement energizes human beings. We take pride in conquering challenging tasks, recognizing that many others might not accomplish them. Moreover, conquering difficult tasks ensures our efforts yield results, and witnessing the fruition of our hard work is one of the most joyful experiences in the world.

3. What challenges do young people face today?
Today’s youth encounter numerous challenges, with competition emerging as the most significant. Merely working hard is insufficient, and many experience failure due to the escalating competition. Inflation and high prices constitute the second challenge, making it difficult to afford various necessities. Lastly, the youth now shoulder more responsibilities. The extended life expectancy requires them to not only attend to their children but also care for their parents and grandparents, leaving minimal time for relaxation or hobbies.

4. How do young people handle difficult or challenging tasks?
The internet has significantly simplified life in this regard. Websites such as Google and Youtube offer abundant information on how to tackle problems. Additionally, young people seek advice from their parents and grandparents when addressing issues.

5. What kinds of rewards do people receive from work?
The company determines this. Firstly, some companies offer performance-based bonuses and incentives to employees who achieve set targets. Secondly, employees receive motivation through employer appreciation or awards such as employee of the month, prominently displayed on the wall for everyone to see.

6. What are the most difficult jobs that people do?
Working in the armed forces, such as the army, navy, or air force, poses the greatest risk to life, making it the most challenging job. Additionally, being a doctor or nurse is also a difficult profession, as a small mistake can result in the loss of lives.

Describe a beautiful city

1. What are the differences between modern towns and modern cities?
Modern towns and modern cities share many similarities, with both places offering a range of facilities. However, two significant differences exist. The first distinction is the higher population density in cities. The second distinction is that life in modern towns is somewhat slower compared to the pace of life in cities.

2. How can people preserve historical buildings?
In this regard, individuals can contribute significantly. I believe people should actively visit these sites with friends and family to generate funds for the government’s maintenance of these buildings. Additionally, people ought to avoid littering and writing on the walls at these locations. Lastly, they must abstain from engaging in vandalism.

3. Why do some people like to visit historical places?
People go to historical cities to learn/gain knowledge about the past, the way of life of the people in the past, their culture, their roots, and the architecture.

4. Why do people go to modern cities?
Various individuals visit modern cities for different purposes. Some visit for work or business, while others go for tourism. Those who seek pleasure in visiting modern cities aim to experience a lifestyle where modern technology seamlessly integrates into every aspect of life. They are eager to learn and observe how the local population incorporates technology into their daily routines. Singapore stands out as an exemplary city in this regard, offering not only a glimpse into modern living but also showcasing how modernization contributes to the preservation and enrichment of the environment.

5. What are the problems caused in maintaining historical cities?
Maintaining historical cities can pose problems such as the need for funds to restore and upkeep the city. Tourism may also exert pressure on the city’s resources, and these historic buildings may occupy space that could be utilized for other purposes.

6. Do you think having too many tourists is a positive thing for historical attractions?
No, I don’t think so. I believe that too many tourists will lead to pollution and also will affect the upkeep of the historical sites. Such sites need a lot of care and maintenance and limiting the number of visitors to such sites can help maintain them, prevent damage to such sites, and also sustain tourism.

7. What can we do to stop visitors from damaging historical places?
To safeguard historical places from visitor-induced damage, implement various measures. Impose stringent penalties, such as hefty fines, on individuals attempting to harm these sites. Employ security personnel to actively prevent any harm to historical places and install security cameras for continuous monitoring of tourist activities. Appoint tourist guides to further ensure the prevention of any damage.

8. Do you think too many tourists is a positive thing for historical attractions?
I believe that the presence of numerous tourists offers both benefits and drawbacks. It guarantees the transmission of our history and culture to future generations, while also generating revenue and business for the residents of the city hosting the historical attraction. On the downside, an excessive influx of tourists can lead to damage to the historical attractions.

Describe a park or a garden in your city

1. Do young people like to go to parks?
Not many youngsters like to go to the parks. One generally sees more children and older adults there.

2. What do old people like to do in parks?
Old people typically walk in the parks, where one can observe them creating a community gathering spot. In these parks, older individuals enjoy sitting, chatting with friends, and some even engage in feeding the birds.

3. What benefits can parks bring to a city?
Parks infuse vitality into a location, serving as islands of beauty and tranquility. The greenery enhances the city’s air quality. They function as delightful spaces where individuals can unwind, exercise, or engage in friendly conversations. Young children can delight in playing games or utilizing rides to expend their surplus energy. Meanwhile, older children can cycle and engage in physical activities. In essence, parks and gardens contribute to the serenity and happiness of the surrounding area.

4. What are the benefits of going to the park for young people and old people?
In the park, people of all ages can unwind and savor the company of friends. Older individuals typically stroll in the park, while younger ones can engage in activities like having picnics, exercising, playing, running, and cycling.

5. Why do some people like planting flowers?
Some people love the happiness and calming effect that flowers bring to the environment, thus they plant flowers.

Describe a successful person who you once studied or worked with

1. Is money the only measure of success in your country?
In my country, we don’t view wealth as the sole measure of success. While it plays a significant role as one of the important factors, success is not solely determined by it. Numerous individuals in my country, despite not possessing considerable wealth, are deemed successful due to their remarkable accomplishments in life or their respective professions.

2. How do you define whether one is a successful person?
Initially, I believe success’s definition is subjective and varies among individuals. Nevertheless, a more encompassing definition of success involves accomplishing personal goals and discovering fulfillment in one’s pursuits.

3. What is the standard of success in your country?
In India, as in many other countries, success standards vary widely and are shaped by individual and societal expectations. Generally, in my country, people regard someone as successful if they attain good educational qualifications, achieve financial stability, and maintain strong family ties.

4. Is there a contradiction between success and happiness?
I believe it depends. Happiness can result from success when it aligns with one’s personal values and goals, but pursuing success at the expense of well-being and contentment may lead to unhappiness. Balancing both is crucial for a fulfilling life. For instance, a person with wealth but poor health will not experience happiness.

5. Is it easy to succeed in the national tests in your country?
Honestly speaking, clearing national tests or competitive exams is very challenging in my country. The immense competition in these examinations is a result of the large population. For instance, the civil services exam sees nearly 9 lakh students participating annually, with only 1000 successfully making it to the final cut.

6. What are the factors that influence students grades at school?
Numerous factors influence students’ grades. Primarily, students’ efforts and hard work play a crucial role, while the guidance from teachers and support from parents also hold significant importance. Additionally, in contemporary times, other factors come into play.

Describe an exciting activity that you experienced with someone else

1. What kinds of activities do young people like to do?
Young people enjoy engaging in various adventure sports such as bungee jumping, river rafting, and paragliding. Additionally, they also participate in traditional sports like football, volleyball, and cricket.

2. Why do some young people like adventurous activities?
These games are thrilling primarily because they entail a sense of risk, adding to their excitement. They provide a unique rush that cannot be experienced in other sports. Additionally, they assist in pushing our mental and physical limits and overcoming our deepest fears.

3. Do you think old people accept changes?
Elderly individuals often resist change because adapting to new circumstances becomes challenging as people age. In their youth, individuals possess a sharp memory and flexibility that enables them to rapidly learn new things and technologies. However, as people enter the later stages of life, it becomes considerably more difficult to do so.

4. How do exciting activities relieve people’s stress?
Engaging in these activities helps people to forget their worries and thoughts, bringing them back to the present. Ultimately, when individuals put their lives at risk, they perceive their other concerns and stresses as much more insignificant in comparison.

5. Can you give some (other) examples of adventurous or risky activities?
Many people enjoy adventurous activities such as skiing, mountain climbing, dirt biking, sorbing, and more. In my opinion, any activity that puts our lives at risk is adventurous.

Describe a film you watched or describe a film that impressed you a lot.

1. What kinds of films are popular in India?
India, with its diversity, embraces a variety of film genres. Action, drama, comedy, thriller, romance, and numerous other movie genres enjoy popularity among the people.

2. Do different age groups like the same kinds of films?
No, I disagree. Individuals across various age groups typically favor different types of films. For instance, the older generation tends to lean towards movies centered around social and political issues, while the younger demographic usually gravitates towards action and comedy genres. I believe that people’s movie preferences evolve with age.

3. What kinds of films do young people particularly like?
Young people prefer watching movies that depict reality or real-life incidents. They also favor superhero and science fiction films. The younger generation enjoys other popular genres such as comedy, romance, horror, and action.

4. Do fewer people choose to watch movies in cinemas than people did in the past?
No, I disagree. Nowadays, a growing number of individuals opt for watching movies in theaters compared to earlier times. People with busy and hectic lives actively choose going to the cinema for entertainment and quality time with family and friends. The proliferation of multiplexes further supports the notion that people favor the cinema experience over online streaming options such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

5. What are other ways to watch movies now?
People can watch movies through TV, online streaming websites, and apps such as Netflix, Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, etc. DVDs, however, are becoming less popular.

6. What’s the difference between American movies and movies from your country?
American and Indian movies differ in several aspects, with one of them being the content of the script, which closely reflects the respective cultures of these countries. Another point of distinction is the language used; Indian movies are produced in Hindi, English, or various other regional languages, while American films are predominantly in English. Additionally, there is a contrast in the technology employed for graphics, such as animation and special effects. American films excel in this area, whereas Indian films are still catching up and haven’t achieved the same level of finesse.

Describe a useful object in your home that you can’t live without.

1. Why are children attracted to new things (such as electronics)?
Nowadays, everyone is drawn to new things. Children, in particular, exhibit a greater attraction as everything is novel to them, and they harbor curiosity about how things operate. Additionally, children desire to showcase the latest technology to their friends and classmates, seeking ownership and possession.

2. Why do some grown-ups hate to throw out old things (such as clothes)?
Old things hold a personal connection or a story for adults. For instance, they cherish a sweater crafted by their mother or given by an aunt. Discarding such items feels like losing a part of themselves, serving as a reminder of their childhood, hence causing hesitancy. In the current era of mass-produced goods, there is no personal connection to products.

3. Is the way people buy things affected? How?
Yes, people today buy things online. Moreover, like I said before we don’t have an emotional connection with products as in the past. Earlier, we felt a loss when something broke down. Now, it’s just an object, and breaking down is an opportunity to buy a newer version.

4. What do you think influences people to buy new things?
People become bored as things age, prompting them to purchase new items to rekindle their excitement. Additionally, advertisements continually remind us of the perceived value in owning the latest version of a product.

Describe a photo that you took and are proud of

1. Why do some people like to use photographs to document important things?
Photographs, in my opinion, effectively preserve past memories. When we view them, we inevitably recall the events and people from that time. Additionally, sharing our experiences with others is best achieved through photographs. As the saying goes, a picture speaks a thousand words.

2. What can one learn from photographs taken throughout history?
Photos can teach people about the successes and failures of our ancestors. On one hand, they provide living proof of human ingenuity and progress; on the other hand, they reveal our failures and the consequences of our actions. For instance, photos depicting lush forests in the past, now replaced by modern high-rise buildings, showcase our architectural achievements while also highlighting the environmental sacrifices made to attain them.

3. Are photographs the best way to remember something?
I used to believe that too. However, I recently read an article on how smells are much more effective in making us remember. In fact, that is why storytellers of the past use incense sticks and spice bowls when telling stories.

4. Which is better, taking photos or keeping a diary?
People hardly keep a diary these days, although both activities have their own importance. Taking photos is more convenient since it provides instant results and allows easy scrolling, whereas maintaining a diary demands much more effort.

Describe something you do regularly that helps you work and study better.

1. What kinds of jobs need patience?
Patience is required for all jobs. Lack of patience can lead to mistakes, requiring even more patience to rectify the situation and resulting in additional time wastage. Therefore, performing tasks with patience not only improves the outcome but also conserves time.

2. Do you think people need to be patient in their free time?
Yes, of course. The age old adage – Haste makes Waste – has a great meaning even today.
Time is the most precious commodity. So, even free time should be managed well and with patience

3. Do you think Indian parents should allow their children to do whatever they want to do in free time?
Parents should actively plan their children’s free time to some extent, particularly when the children are very young. Even as they loosen the reins, parents should still keep a watchful eye on them.

4. What is the routine of people in your country?
It is very difficult to generalise. India is a vast and diverse country. Routine depends on age group, gender and occupation. Mostly people go for work in the morning. They watch TV and spend time with friends and family in the evenings.

5. What are the routine activities that old people and young people in your country do?
Old people go to parks and religious places. Young people go to gyms and hang out with friends.

6. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy engaging in various activities during my free time. I sometimes listen to music, watch TV, and play with my pet dog, Nora.