Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Examiner’s Questions and Sample Responses:
1. What kind of housing/accommodation do you live in?
I live in a modern two-bedroom apartment in the city center. It has a spacious living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with a nice view of the park. The building also has amenities like a gym and secure parking, which make it very convenient and comfortable.
2. Who do you live with?
I live with my family, which includes my spouse and our two children. It’s a good arrangement because the apartment is large enough to accommodate everyone comfortably, and we all enjoy spending time together at home.
3. How long have you been living there?
I have been living in this apartment for about three years now. We moved here because it’s closer to my workplace and the children’s school, making our daily routine much more manageable.
4. What do you like about your home?
I really like how bright and airy it is, thanks to the large windows and open layout. The balcony is my favorite spot, as it’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the view. Additionally, the location is excellent because everything we need is within walking distance.
5. Is there anything you would like to change about your home?
If I could change one thing, it would be the size of the kitchen. Although it’s functional, I wish it were a bit bigger to make cooking more comfortable, especially when we have guests over.
Part 2: Describe a house or an apartment you would like to live in.
You should say:
·where it would be located
·what it would look like
·what facilities it would have
and explain why you would like to live there.
Sample Answer:
If I had the opportunity, I would love to live in a spacious house by the seaside. Ideally, it would be located in a peaceful coastal town, not too far from the city, so I could enjoy both tranquility and convenience.
The house would be modern in design, with large glass windows that let in plenty of natural light and offer breathtaking views of the ocean. It would have three or four bedrooms, a cozy living room with a fireplace, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. There would also be a garden where I could grow flowers and vegetables, as well as a patio for outdoor dining.
As for facilities, I would love to have a small private pool and a home office. A garage would also be essential, along with solar panels to make the house eco-friendly.
I’ve always dreamed of living near the sea because I find it calming and inspiring. Waking up to the sound of waves and fresh ocean air would be amazing. It would also be a great place to spend time with family and friends, making it the perfect home for me.
Part 3: Discussion
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in an apartment?
Living in an apartment can be convenient because it often comes with facilities like security, maintenance, and amenities such as gyms or parking. Apartments are also usually located in urban areas, making it easier to access work, schools, and entertainment. However, they can feel a bit cramped, especially for larger families, and privacy may be limited due to close neighbors.
2. How do housing needs change as people grow older?
As people grow older, their housing needs tend to become simpler and more practical. Younger individuals or families might prefer larger homes with multiple bedrooms for children, while older adults may choose smaller, single-story homes to avoid stairs and reduce maintenance. Proximity to healthcare and community facilities also becomes more important with age.
3. Do you think governments should provide housing for everyone?
Yes, I believe governments have a responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to basic housing. Safe and affordable housing is a fundamental need, and without it, people can face serious challenges, including health issues and social instability. While governments may not be able to provide homes for everyone, they can implement policies and programs to make housing more accessible and affordable.
4. How does housing differ between rural and urban areas in your country?
In rural areas, houses tend to be larger, more spread out, and often come with outdoor spaces like gardens or farmland. They are also usually more affordable compared to urban areas. On the other hand, housing in cities is often more compact, such as apartments or high-rise buildings, due to limited space. Urban housing is typically more expensive because of the proximity to jobs, schools, and other amenities.