Speak with me (Band 9.0!) | Cambridge IELTS 18 Test 3

My name is Sarah. Nice to meet you!

I'm from Toronto, Canada. It's a vibrant city known for its diversity, culture, and friendly people.

I buy things online quite frequently, especially for convenience and variety. It's convenient to shop from the comfort of my home, and online stores often offer a wide range of products that may not be available locally. Plus, with fast shipping options, I can usually get what I need delivered right to my doorstep in no time.

The last thing I bought online was a new pair of running shoes. I found a great deal on a pair that had excellent reviews, and since my old ones were getting worn out, it was the perfect time to upgrade.

Yes, I do that sometimes. If I see something in a shop that catches my eye, I might take note of it and then look it up online later. This allows me to compare prices, read reviews, and potentially find a better deal or a wider selection of options online.

Yes, definitely. The popularity of online shopping has had a noticeable impact on town and city centers. With more people opting to shop online, traditional brick-and-mortar stores in town and city centers are facing increasing challenges to attract customers. This has led to a rise in vacant storefronts and a shift in the types of businesses that occupy these spaces. Additionally, the decrease in foot traffic in town and city centers can also affect other local businesses, such as cafes and restaurants, that rely on shoppers for business. Overall, the rise of online shopping is reshaping the retail landscape and changing the dynamics of town and city centers.

I remember a time when I visited my cousin Sarah at her home in the countryside. She lives in a quaint little farmhouse surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. I made this visit because it had been quite some time since we last saw each other, and we wanted to catch up and spend quality time together.

During the visit, we did a variety of things that we both enjoyed. We went for long walks in the countryside, exploring the scenic trails and enjoying the fresh air. We also spent time cooking together, trying out new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. In the evenings, we would cozy up by the fireplace, sipping hot cocoa and sharing stories about our lives.

What I enjoyed most about this visit was the opportunity to reconnect with my cousin in such a peaceful and serene setting. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, we were able to truly relax and enjoy each other's company. It felt like a much-needed escape from the stresses of everyday life, and I cherished every moment spent with my cousin in her beautiful home.

Overall, visiting my cousin in her countryside farmhouse was a delightful experience that left me feeling rejuvenated and grateful for the bond we share. It was a reminder of the importance of family and taking the time to appreciate the simple pleasures in life.

I try to visit my cousin Sarah as often as possible, but it depends on our schedules and other commitments.

In my country, families often celebrate together during various occasions throughout the year. One of the most common times for family gatherings is during holidays such as Christmas, New Year's, and Thanksgiving. These holidays typically involve festive meals, gift exchanges, and quality time spent with loved ones. Additionally, families may also come together to celebrate special milestones such as birthdays, weddings, graduations, and anniversaries. These occasions provide opportunities for families to bond, create lasting memories, and strengthen their relationships.

In my country, the frequency of all generations in a family coming together can vary depending on individual circumstances and traditions. However, it's common for families to gather on significant occasions such as holidays, birthdays, and family reunions. These events provide opportunities for multiple generations to reunite, share stories, and strengthen familial bonds. Additionally, some families may have regular traditions, such as weekly dinners or monthly gatherings, where all generations come together to spend quality time and catch up on each other's lives.

Some individuals may not enjoy attending family occasions due to various reasons, which can vary depending on personal circumstances and preferences. One common reason is conflicting schedules or commitments, such as work obligations or prior engagements, which may prevent them from fully participating in family gatherings. Additionally, family dynamics and relationships can play a significant role, as tensions or conflicts within the family may make certain individuals feel uncomfortable or unwelcome at gatherings. Moreover, personality differences or differing interests among family members can also contribute to a lack of enjoyment, as some individuals may find it challenging to connect or relate to others in the family. Additionally, cultural or generational differences within the family may lead to feelings of alienation or disconnection for some individuals.

Yes, I believe it's generally beneficial for parents to help their children with schoolwork. In many cases, parental involvement in a child's education can have positive effects on their academic performance, confidence, and overall well-being. Parents can provide valuable support by assisting their children with homework, reviewing assignments, and offering guidance on challenging subjects. Additionally, parents can serve as mentors and role models, instilling important values such as diligence, perseverance, and a love for learning. Furthermore, involvement in their child's education allows parents to stay informed about their progress and any areas where they may need additional support or encouragement. However, it's crucial for parents to strike a balance and avoid becoming overly involved or placing undue pressure on their children. Instead, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment that prioritizes the child's individual growth and development is key to ensuring positive outcomes.

I believe it's very important for families to eat together at least once a day. Sharing meals as a family provides valuable opportunities for bonding, communication, and connection. It allows family members to come together, share experiences, and strengthen relationships in a relaxed and informal setting. Additionally, family meals offer a chance for parents to model healthy eating habits and social skills for their children, promoting positive behaviors and fostering a sense of belonging within the family unit. Furthermore, research has shown that regular family meals are associated with numerous benefits for children, including improved academic performance, better nutrition, and lower rates of risky behaviors such as substance abuse. Overall, prioritizing family meals can contribute to the overall well-being and cohesiveness of the family unit, making it an important aspect of family life.

Yes, I believe that sharing household tasks among family members is important for fostering a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and equality within the family. When everyone contributes to maintaining the household, it helps distribute the workload more evenly and prevents any one individual from feeling overwhelmed or burdened by chores. Additionally, sharing household tasks teaches valuable life skills and promotes a spirit of cooperation and mutual support among family members. Moreover, involving children in age-appropriate household chores can help them develop a sense of independence, self-reliance, and accountability. Overall, sharing household tasks is essential for creating a harmonious and functional family environment where everyone feels valued and respected for their contributions.