Cold Weather
Have you ever been in very cold weather? When?
Yes, I experienced very cold weather during a trip to Canada last winter. The temperatures dropped to around -15 degrees Celsius, and it was quite a shock for me!
How often is the weather cold where you come from?
In my country, the weather is generally mild, but we do have cold spells during the winter months. It usually gets chilly, but not extremely cold.
Are some parts of your country colder than others? Why?
Yes, some regions, particularly those at higher elevations or further north, tend to be colder. For instance, mountainous areas often experience more snowfall and colder temperatures than coastal regions.
Would you prefer to live in a hot place or a cold place? Why?
I would prefer to live in a warm place because I enjoy outdoor activities and sunny weather. Cold weather can be nice for a short time, but I find it more comfortable to be in a warmer climate.
Describe a Competition
I participated in a university debate competition last year. I found out about it through an announcement on our campus bulletin board.
The competition involved preparing arguments for and against specific topics and presenting them in front of a panel of judges. I had to research extensively, practice my speeches, and collaborate with my teammates to prepare.
The prizes included certificates, a trophy for the winning team, and a scholarship for the top debater, which was quite motivating.
I chose to take part in this competition because I wanted to improve my public speaking skills and gain experience in critical thinking. Additionally, it was a great opportunity to connect with other students who shared similar interests.
Competitions in School
Why do you think some school teachers use competitions as class activities?
Teachers often use competitions to motivate students and make learning more engaging. It encourages participation and can help students develop important skills, such as teamwork and critical thinking.
Do you think it is a good thing to give prizes to children who do well at school? Why?
Yes, I believe giving prizes can be beneficial as it recognizes and rewards hard work, encouraging students to strive for success. However, it’s important to ensure that the focus remains on learning rather than just winning.
Would you say that schools for young children have become more or less competitive since you were that age? Why?
I think schools have become more competitive due to increased emphasis on academic achievement and standardized testing. This has put more pressure on students, making it more challenging for them to balance their studies with other interests.
Sporting Competitions
What are the advantages and disadvantages of intensive training for young sportspeople?
Intensive training can help young athletes develop their skills and improve performance. However, it can also lead to burnout, injuries, and loss of enjoyment in the sport if not balanced properly.
Some people think that competition leads to a better performance from sports stars. Others think it just makes players feel insecure. What is your opinion?
I believe competition can enhance performance by pushing athletes to improve and strive for excellence. However, it’s crucial to create a supportive environment to prevent insecurity and stress.
Do you think that it is possible to become too competitive in sport? In what way?
Yes, becoming too competitive can lead to unhealthy pressure, anxiety, and burnout. It can also affect relationships with teammates and diminish the enjoyment of the sport, which should be the primary focus.
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